Mostly, I enjoy the excitement of not knowing what is coming up next. The fact that I simply put my iTunes on shuffle in order to come up with songs to review keeps everything spontaneous, which means I enjoy writing this article every week so much more than simply writing all about one album the whole time.

Also, there’s a bonus for everyone who reads it: having 5 artists every week gives you all extra information on a whole bunch of artists you may have never heard of previously. Cool beans!

Moving on with the actual review.

Song #1: Early Mornin’ – Britney Spears: Out of every song I’ve reviewed during this new format, I’m pretty sure Britney Spears is the artist that needs the least introduction. You probably know her best for shaving her head, smashing car windows with umbrellas and occasionally partying without underwear on. The rest of you know that Britters actually has 6 studio albums and 4 compilations and EPs under her belt, along with an array of glittering number one hits in the US, UK and a selection of smaller countries.

This track is taken from her fourth album (released in 2003), which is also possibly my favourite of her albums. This track is sexy and sultry, with a generic pop twist. It was never released as a single – it’s far too sexual and not catchy enough for any of that – but it is actually a great song. Whether you listen to it do dance to or to *ahem* make love to it, it’ll suit every purpose. With the possible exception of a children’s birthday party. Buy it HERE (US) or HERE (UK).

Song #2: Who Knew – P!nk: Well, it looks like the princesses of pop are battling it out to appear in Music Monday this week! I’m not sure I’d call P!nk so much of a pop princess, but more of a rock princess. She’s edgy, raw and makes a statement with her music. Just one behind Britney, P!nk (real name Alecia Moore) has 5 studio albums to her name and each one of them did exceedingly well in the chart run. She’s also been known to clinch several music awards for her music videos, which are stunning, by the way.

Unlike Britney’s ‘Early Mornin”, this track was released as a single. It climbed to number 5 in the UK, but it peaked only at number 19 on US BDS Airplay Charts. The single was practically ignored by radio stations in the US, but I fail to see why. This is a stunning song, filled with emotion and has a gorgeous set of lyrics to back up the classic P!nk electric guitar. US citizens, you should be ashamed. Buy it HERE (US) or HERE (UK).

Song #3: Monsoon – Tokio Hotel: This is a track I’ve owned for quite a while but also one I rarely listen to. Apparently, TokioHotel are a German band led by the girly-looking and girly-sounding Bill Kaulitz. No, no, no, he’s not gay. He’s simply quite androgynous and gender bending. Each to their own, right? Enough about him. Tokio Hotel have put their name to 5 studio albums, meaning they must be pretty good to be so successful, surely.

I’d say this song was the best of the grand total of 3 tracks I’ve heard from the band. It’s slightly emo-fixed with quite a rock/metal edge, so I wouldn’t listen to it if you are solely into pop princesses like the 2 mentioned above. The song is actually pretty good, but it doesn’t peak or ‘explode’ as I like to describe it as many rock anthems do. When you think of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen, you think of Brian May’s guitar solo as the peak of the song. This track simply doesn’t really have one. Buy HERE (US) or HERE (UK).

Song #4: Standing In The Way of Control (Soulwax Nite Version) – The Gossip: Most of you will have heard this song in it’s original form by this Washington originated band. Fronted by larger than life front-woman Beth Ditto, this band are loud, proud and really rather gay. This remix by Soulwax (an alternative Belgian electro band) appeared on their album ‘Most of the Remixes…‘ (click for full title) as the opening track alongside LCD Soundsystem, Daft Punk and many others.

I wouldn’t say I prefer the remix to the original version (many of you will have heard it, as it was used as the original soundtrack for the promo adverts for UK teen drama Skins) but I wouldn’t mind dancing to this in a pub or club. I’m a fan of electro music as it is, so anyone who remixes a song as fabulous as this deserves a medal in my book. Quality. Buy HERE (US) or HERE (UK).

Song #5: Celebrity Skin – Hole: It seems riot grrrl rock band band ‘Hole’ are making a comeback this year, especially in the UK.The band have an impressive 4 albums released from a much less impressive 19 years, spanning an even less impressive 6 record labels. Nevertheless, the band still have their original leading lady Courtney Love, girlfriend of late Nirvana rocker Kurt Cobain, even if there are 11 ex-members to the band. Did you keep up with all that?

Although a lot of people despise this band, I actually think they do girl rock justice. We could do worse with nit-wits such as Miley Cyrus putting on their rock chick façade and Courtney Love is definitely a whole lot cooler than people like her. I wouldn’t say this track was their best (that award goes to ‘Violet’) but it is pretty good and I do recommend you buy it if you’re up for a bit of a disco and head-banging session, this track should be on your playlist. Buy HERE (US) or HERE (UK).

Top Track This Week: Standing in the Way of Control (Soulwax Nite Version) – The Gossip.

Oh, just me then?

Well I have no idea why they named their band in such an odd way, but they’re pretty quirky and awesome anyways.

But does their first full-length studio album match their personalities?

Track #1: Camp Out – The band actually performed this song on the David Letterman Show. So it must be good, right? Right. It’s catchy and you’ll remember the tune again the second time you listen.

Track #2: Postcards – Possibly one of my favourite tracks, this song was actually used on a Mercedes-Benz advert back in 2008. This one has much more of a rocky guitar behind it that will make you bop your head a little. Always a good thing.

Track #3: Company – A slower tempo here, but still good to listen to. The lead singer (Kate Cooper) has quite a distinct tone to her voice, so you’ll always know it’s her. Not the strongest, but not a disaster either.

Track #4: Horizons – This song is actually a bit of a replica of some of the other songs. It’s not one you’ll remember and it’s not awful to listen to, it’s just a little bit samey.

Track #5: Rearrange Beds – Again a little bit samey. Doesn’t suck. Just doesn’t stand out. Unlike the other track, this one really should stand out. It is the title track after all.

Track #6: Little Little Little – Once more, this song does sound like some of the tracks you’ve heard before. However, this one makes up for this fact by having a better set of lyrics.

Track #7: Little Lungs – This one isn’t super catchy, but at least it’s a change from the other tracks. Another slow one, it’s nice to listen to but you won’t remember it.

Track #8: Scared As F**k – Definitely one of my favourites. Out of all of these tracks, this is the one I always remember. The chorus is perfect and the pace of the song is wonderful. Just right.

Track #9: Shoes Watch – Pretty much the same tempo yet again. You don’t get bored of the album, because it all just sounds like one big song. But this song especially is one I always skip past when listening to this album.

Track #10: Listen – Finally, a song that sounds different. This track begins with a simple guitar, which is definitely different from the rest of the album. It’s like that cool down you do after a big work out. Gorgeous.

Overall Rating: Don’t buy it. Just buy the first few tracks.

Colour It In is their first album and the only album I have. Someone actually bought me it for Valentine’s Day, but you don’t want to know about that…

So, is it a good listen or not?

Track #1: Good Old Bill – Love the drums it opens with. The random topics chosen by the band are amazing, as you learn when listening.

Track #2: X-Ray – Pretty great electric guitar to kick off the song – deadly catchy. Best lyric? “She’s got her suspicions (x-ray x-ray x-ray x-ray vision)”. Although, I could have chosen any of them, ’cause they’re all great.

Track #3: All In Your Rows – I must admit, this is one of the more forgettable tracks, but the lyrics seem far too random to have no meaning behind them. I wonder what, exactly…

Track #4: Latchmere – Definitely one of my favourites. What’s the topic of this song? Latchmere Leisure Centre in Battersea, of course. Love it. Also mentions paedos. Can’t say that for every song, can you?

Track #5: About Your Dress – Straight away, The Maccabees hit you with a great lyric. “It’s just what all young lovers do…” Very catchy. Deservedly made the Top UK 40 chart in 2007.

Track #6: Precious Time – Sums up my motto on life: “Let’s take our precious time about it.” Procrastinating forever.

Track #7: O.A.V.I.P – Obviously about an old person. A lonely, old widow, to be exact. Heart-breaking song with a juxtaposing up-beat track. Perfect.

Track #8: Tissue Shoulders – Least memorable track, I think. It’s nice to listen to anyway.

Track #9: Happy Faces – I love the way this track builds up as it progresses. Good, solid indie fun.

Track #10: First Love – Another of my favourites from the album. Very catchy and very memorable. A great song.

Track #11: Mary – Again, not sure what this song is about, but it has good lyrics anyway. I guess you can make your own interpretation!

Track #12: Lego – “…and the boys chew lego, so now we can’t build castles or robots.” Everyone loves lego. Everyone should love this song.

Track #13: Toothpaste Kisses – Perhaps the best known Maccabees song. Has an old style sound to it, with pretty lyrics. Amazing song.

Should you by this album? Duhh.

If you like bands such as The View and The Strokes, you’ll probably like them. Good entertainment here from the guys.

Overall Rating:

They’re actually a pretty new band – they’ve only had one big studio release, and that’s ‘Hold On Tight’, which we’re going to review now. Let’s get on with it.

Track #1: Set Off – Not my favourite, but is the first song an album really ever anyone’s favourite? Still, a great, poppy song that makes you want to jump about to kick it all off.

Track #2: How You Love Me Now – Here’s where the party really starts. This song has probably one of the most catchy choruses since ‘I Kissed a Girl’ by Katy Perry. Yeah, it’s that good.

Track #3: Homecoming – The first single from their album, says wikipedia. Wouldn’t have been my first choice for a debut, but it did well enough for there to be a second single, so they must be doing something right!

Track #4: Obvious – Hey Monday are often associated with Fall Out Boy. And this song sounds a lot like one of theirs, minus Patrick Stump and putting Cassadee Pope in his place.

Track #5: Candles – In a very ‘Paramore-esque’ way, the band drop in a down tempo song in the middle of the album. And just like slow songs highlight Hayley Williams’ voice, this one does the same for Pope.

Track #6: Run, Don’t Walk – This one has a very different sound to start off with. It actually begins pretty electronic sounding and then they bring in the drums. Again, a tune to party to.

Track #7: Josey – On par with ‘How You Love Me Now’, in my opinion. Love the lyrics. Love the chorus. Vocals are really strong again here too.

Track #8: Hurricane Streets – Not the best song, but still a pretty great one. However, when you get to this point, the songs start to sound a little samey. (Don’t shoot me, die hard fans!)

Track #9: Arizona – Another one of my favourites. And not just because it’s called ‘Arizona’. (Check my weekly Grey’s Anatomy reviews.) I really love the chorus here: it really makes me feel like I’m going to escape from where I live one day too.

Track #10: Should’ve Tried Harder – If you mentioned the title of this song to me, I’d have no idea of the lyrics or even the tune. It doesn’t suck completely, it’s just not memorable.

Track #11: 6 Months – A softer finale to end this riot of an album. Acoustic. Beautiful. Fin.

Summarizing, Hey Monday remind me a lot of Paramore in their early days. Pope shares a similar voice to Williams, and the bands’ songs are quite similar. Keep up the good work.

Overall Rating:

Paloma, Paloma, Paloma.

You’re so weird. And wonderful. Wonderfully weird. Utterly fantastic.

And that’s just her personality. But is her debut album up to much?

Track #1: Stone Cold Sober – This is the song that got me into Paloma in the first place, actually. She sang a snippet of it acapella on Never Mind the Buzzcocks and it showcased her unique voice immensely. Love.

Track #2: Smoke & Mirrors – Not the best song on the album, but it’s still good for a bit of easy listening. Worth a boogie to.

Track #3: Broken Doll – I love the story behind this one. The instrumental is stripped right down here to a simple piano and a drum beat, which enables Paloma to show off a bit.

Track #4: Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful? – Without doubt my favourite track. This is the 3rd release from the album, with a catchy chorus and gorgeous lyrics. 10/10.

Track #5: Upside Down – A beautifully upbeat song from the lady here. Definitely a finger-clickin’ tune. It’s actually quite jitterbug-gy, and takes you back to the 50s!

Track #6: Romance Is Dead – Good lyrics again. Super nice contrast between the tempo of the verses and the chorus. Love it.

Track #7: New York – I think this was her debut single. So it’s pretty much what put Paloma Faith on the map. And she doesn’t disappoint. Catchy and very memorable.

Track #8: Stargazer – Dreamy and sexy. The two words I would use to describe this track. Ms. Faith hits some higher notes here, showing her vocal range very nicely.

Track #9: My Legs Are Weak – Possibly the slowest track. Good for slow dancing with your partner. Again, stunning lyrics.

Track #10: Play On – Great use of a trumpet. But one of the weaker songs. Possibly the least memorable.

Track #11: Press Lightly – A nice slow end to a pretty great album. Could do with more of a catchy beat, but not bad, all in all.

Best thing about this album? The incredibly unique voice of Paloma Faith. The title is pretty amazing too.

Overall Rating:

Everyone knows the Black Eyed Peas, right? Well I bet you didn’t know that this album was actually their third.

Yep, their third. Not their first, which is what most people think. It is, however, the first of their albums to star RnB superstar Fergie. Some say it was actually her that brought about their success.

Why am I reviewing this album, out of all the albums I could have reviewed? Because I found it beneath layers of dust the other day in my bedroom, and realized that it’s actually got some pretty great songs in there.

Track #1: Hands Up – Awesomely catchy song. This one really gets stuck in your head. Which would normally be annoying, but it’s good enough to not get too unbearable.

Track #2: Labor Day (It’s a Holiday) – In my opinion, this track is good enough for single release. Good to dance to.

Track #3: Let’s Get Retarded – No, that wasn’t a typo. This song was actually released as ‘Let’s Get It Started’. Maybe so as not to offend? Who knows? It’s amazing anyway.

Track #4: Hey Mama - My personal favourite, to tell you the truth. This song did less well when it was released as a single, but I actually love this one. Great for a spot of ‘booty-shaking’.

Track #5: Shut Up - Everyone remembers this song. It was the follow up to the Peas’ smash hit ‘Where Is The Love?’ and everyone had high expectations. And they didn’t disappoint either.

Track #6: Smells Like Funk - This song isn’t really memorable, but the chorus is fun and once you hear it, it rushes back to memory.

Track #7: Latin Girls – The first of the tracks that doesn’t star the vocal talent of Fergie. No idea why she’s not in all of the songs. Well, I lie, you hear her voice once, but it’s an extract of speech. No singing involved.

Track #8: Sexy – Again, Fergie is pretty much absent. And this song is pretty much a filler on the album, but it’s not a bad one. Which is always good.

Track #9: Fly Away - A solid RnB track here. Once more the chorus outshines the verses. There seems to be a pattern with that.

Track #10: The Boogie That Be - Quirky, boppy song from the Peas. Not the most memorable but it’s not bad.

Track #11: The Apl Song  – Quite a slow song here. Vocals mainly from apl.de.ap, hence the title. But it’s a pretty boring song, to be honest. Sorry, Apl.

Track #12: Anxiety - This one has much more of a rocky sound to it than the rest of the album. An okay song, but it’s pretty forgettable, if I’m honest.

Track #13: Where Is The Love? – Obviously RnB gold. With samples of Justin Timberlake. A flawless song, spreading a serious message. Brilliant.

Track #14: Third Eye - If I remember correctly, this is one of the bonus tracks. And although it’s one of the last songs, I’ve always really liked this one. Don’t know why. Catchy? Fun? Random? Pretty much all of the above.

So on the whole, this third album is pretty good. Granted, some songs are better than others (mainly the ones at the start of the album) but a good, solid collection of noughties RnB.

Overall Rating:

They’re like how Jay-Z is to hip-hop. Or how AC/DC are to rock. You know what I mean?

Firstly, I’d like to point out how impressed I am by the album artwork of this album. Inside and out are a series of images that portray simplicity – something which really compliments the songs on the album. And for those of you who know me, you’ll know I think ’simplicity = good.’

Track #1: Bixby Canyon Bridge – An eerie start to the album. Drums gradually build and suddenly cut out towards the end of the song, re-creating the atmosphere it started with initially.

Track #2: I Will Possess Your Heart – This song is nothing short of an 8 minute masterpiece. You get the impression that the lead singer is adamant that you’ll fall in love with him. Let’s hope he’s not sending any subliminal messages. Still, a masterpiece nonetheless.

Track #3: No Sunlight – The first song to actually sound pretty happy. It’s not until you listen to the lyrics and realize he’s telling you of a crappy childhood that you realize it’s the saddest song so far. Very catchy though.

Track #4: Cath… - Again, this song appears to have a happy tone, but the lyrics tell a different story. It’s about a woman who has had the opportunity to love but just can’t hold onto it. Pretty deep, right? Still pleasant to the ears.

Track #5: Talking Bird – Is this song really about a parrot, or is it really a metaphor for the love of a partner? The beauty of this entire album is that it is up to the listener to determine which songs should be taken literally and which ones have hidden meanings.

Track #6: You Can Do Better Than Me - Once more, a song that sounds extremely happy. Which is a good thing. But the guy singing is really just drowning his sorrows in the song, as he can’t do any better than who he is singing to. But he/she could easily get someone better.

Track #7: Grapvine Fires - Lead singer Benjamin Gibbard’s voice really penetrates the listener in this track. With another voice relaying over his in the chorus, it makes the song seem very haunting. Beautiful.

Track #8: Your New Twin Sized Bed – When listening to this song, you really realize that Death Cab’s lyrics really have no structure. There is none of the usual ‘2 verses – chorus – verse – chorus – bridge – chorus’ bullshit, the purpose of these songs is to tell a story, and that is exactly what this one does.

Track #9: Long Division – A beautiful explanation of the change of a simple man. This track is very poppy, with a dance-y drum beat and a memorable guitar to accompany it.

Track #10: Pity and Fear – Everytime I see this song on my iTunes, I think ‘Pity and Fear? Which one’s that?’ But then I play it and it all comes flooding back. This is actually one of my favourites on the whole album. I particularly like the line “And I recall the push more than the fall.”

Track #11: The Ice Is Getting Thinner – Without a doubt my favourite. It’s strange how the last track is normally the worst, or the most forgotten, but this is an exception. An obvious story told of a breaking down of a relationship, with the clever comparison to ice breaking underneath people.

If you like listening to relaxing chill-out music, you’ll probably like this. If you enjoy more of a dance, I wouldn’t recommend it.

For me though, music that gives you something to think about is often more poetic and important than music that just makes you dance. Win for Death Cab.

Overall Rating:

Possibly my favourite band, ever. Even they only have one album. (So far!) And I’m going to review it right now.

UHH consist of lead vocalist, guitarist, synthesist and pretty much everthing else ‘ist’ Camila Grey, and bassist and vocalist Leisha Hailey. That’s right, they’re a female duo who don’t get enough air time.

Grey, I am told, (by my good friend wikipedia) has worked with big names such as Busta Rhymes, Kelly Osbourne and Dr. Dre. Hailey also earns a living as an actress and has appeared in top TV shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, The L Word and CSI.

But why is their debut album so good?

Track #1: Not A Love Song – One of the albums first single releases. Kicks off the synth-y feel with a (very catchy) bang.

Track #2: Explode – This song has to be good really, because it has appeared on a hell of a lot of TV show soundtracks. Electro at it’s best, in my opinion. Gives Little Boots and Peaches a run for their high profile money.

Track #3: Wait Another Day – Love the lyrics on this song. Pretty catchy song too. “I will wait to love you, I will wait another day…”

Track #4: Common Reaction – The title track, obviously. Smooth vocals from both of the girls. Leisha harmonizes with clear expertise in this one.

Track #5: Say So – If I had to say one thing about this song, it would be that the album version is not as good as the original EP version. Look into it.

Track #6: Covered – My favourite track, I think. I just think the chorus is totally catchy and amazing. And makes me think of being little, for some reason.

Track #7: Everyone – I love how this track builds up as it progresses. Starts off with little sound and ends with style!

Track #8: Away From Here - I’d say UHH’s strong point is their choruses. From the title of each song, you can remember the words to the chorus. Love it.

Track #9: So Long – Probably the least memorable for me, but it’s still a good song. Good to dance to.

Track #10: Dance With Me – Parts of this song are quite rock and roll too. Joan Jett would be proud.

Track #11: Dreamer - I love the dreamy sound to this song. The title obviously suits it. Don’t get confused as I did, though. I went months thinking the lyrics said “Put yourself a mushroom.” Clearly NOT what they were singing, douche.

Great album, great lyrics, fun, poppy sound.

Overall Rating:

Probably one of my favourite artists right now, Jose Vanders is a nineteen year old, instrumental genius. She plays the piano like nobody’s business, can strum expertly on the ukelele and has the sweetest voice in the South of England.

Think Lily Allen, but a more clean-cut version.

Her first album ‘Transactional Language’ is nothing short of perfect and here is why, track by track.

Track #1: new ride – A very anecdotal song that tells a story and paints a vivid mental picture in your mind. Simply beautiful. Best lyric? “…when I say ‘pick me apart and uncover my heart… it’s yours.’”

Track #2: Faces Going Places – Probably the most upbeat song on the album and it’s amazingly catchy with a cute little clapping rhythm in the background. Gives me goosebumps indefinitely. Best lyric? “You’d think if I could choose to live here at the station I would.”

Track #3: Alberto Morrocco – The cutest roll of the tongue you’ll ever hear is in this song. Again, beautifully tells a story. Best lyric? “And I don’t know if he loves her sweetly.”

Track #4: Ode To Gilbert – Another of my favourites. Why? 1) Because it has my name in it! 2) Because it’s totally freeing. Best lyric? “She wants to fly to the moon in a lacy bra and parachute the whole way back.”

Track #5: A Little Love Song – Perhaps the most well known song from Miss Vanders with gorgeous piano behind it. Best lyric? “You look delicious, like a really juicy peach.” (Choosing the best lyric for this song was so easy by the way. So cute!)

Track #6: Holes – Awful for when you’ve just ended a relationship, but it’s painfully stunning. Evokes emotion very easily. Best lyric? “I know that he knows that we were meant to be together, but it’s so hard, so hard, to let go.”

Track #7: Without Your Kisses – This song will probably make you cry, especially if you’ve just gotten a divorce. So let’s hope you haven’t, because it’s too beautiful to miss. Pretty tinkling piano at the beginning and it’s really easy to relate to. Best lyric? “Your eyes have faded, I’m in pieces, I can’t cope without your kisses…”

Why shouldn’t you buy this album? If you’re a total dick.

There’s no one I wouldn’t recommend this to. I guess if you’re a bit of a raver, you wouldn’t like it. But otherwise, you’re good to go.

By the way, I must say, Jose Vanders is not called Hosay. (Her name is Josephine.)

Overall Rating:

But there is a certain beauty behind his songs that I just cannot put my finger on. Besides, some of his songs are upbeat with a happy ending. He just keeps you guessing: you never know what he’ll do next!

This week I’ve decided to review Rice’s second studio album, simply titled ‘9′. The artwork, by the way, is crazy and totally awesome.

Track #1: 9 Crimes – The best song you could actually ever listen to if you were depressed. You know, when you don’t want to listen to people like Alphabeat being annoyingly happy and excitable.

Track #2: The Animals Were Gone – My song of choice after a relationship break up. Makes you feel ten times worse, but the lyrics are written to perfection. For example, “waking up without you is like drinking, from an empty cup.”

Track #3: Elephant – The first of the songs to start off lovely and peaceful and then gradually get more aggressive as it progresses. The emotion in Damien’s voice is particularly stunning in this track.

Track #4: Rootless Tree – I’d say this track was probably quite deceiving. The guitar motif in the background is pretty light and happy sounding, but the lyrics totally contrast. That is, until he starts shouting ‘F*CK YOU!’ at the top of his voice.

Track #5: Dogs – I promised you that Rice did have some happy songs, and this one is a perfect example. The lyrics tell a cute story about love between himself and ‘the girl that does yoga’. It’s totally sweet.

Track #6: Coconut Skins – Perfect guitar in this song. Pretty catchy, in fact.

Track #7: Me, My Yoke and I – If there were in fact any weak songs on this album, I’d say this was the weakest. I still like it though. This album obviously must just be good.

Track #8: Grey Room – If I remember correctly, this is the first song with any hint of drums. And they accentuate the tones in Rice’s voice greatly. Love it.

Track #9: Accidental Babies – And we’re back to the totally depressing songs. I really love this one though. It’s dark, gloomy and absolutely delicious. The piano makes it sound so cold and the lyrics are haunting. In a good way.

Track #10: Sleep Don’t Weep – If I ever have trouble sleeping, I’m gonna play this song. The melody of the vocals in this track are beautiful and make you feel as if Damien is actually in the room with you.

So, is this CD worth buying? 100% yes. It’s possibly one of the modern masterpieces in terms of it’s lyrics. Pretty much an Oscar winning script.

I don’t recommend this to anyone who likes Cascada or Tiesto. For obvious reasons.

If you appreciate good music and are a little bit emo, you’ll love it.

Overall Rating: