Madam Im Adam

Melodifestivalen 2010: Semi Final 3 Gothenburg Review

2010-02-24T17:05:00.006Z

The third stop on the Melodifestivalen trail found us in Scandinavium, Gothenburg last Saturday! After two lacklustre weeks I was still holding out for a hero! 3 of my most anticipated artists were competing this week so I expected them to bring their A-game!
Melodifestivalen has been getting big criticism this year from the Swedish public and music industry. This article explains that the song which will represent Denmark was originally turned down by the SVT jury for Melodi! And how on earth this classic duet by two Schlager princesses was ditched I will never know: Linda Bengtzing & Velvet - Victorious

Isn't that just pop perfection?!?
Well with that in mind, lets see what Göteborg brought to the table...

Alcazar - Headlines:
Alcazar are always a firm favourite of mine! they never fail to impress via chic dance routines and poptastic songs! Stay The Night from last year was a Melodi Masterpiece and on reflection may have been the best choice for Moscow! From start to finish the dance,staging, outfits and glitterballs from the ceiling made Stay The Night a disco extravaganza! I expected to be blown away again by Headlines... the song is a mix of Kevin Borg - Street Lights and Alcazar Burning:

Which are two epic songs to mash-up! Overall the performance is hot, the big Alcazar name in lights is amazing and I want one for my room! I think it has a real 80's sound to it rather then pure disco! For some reason Andreas's mic went very quite half way through, so you could only really hear the girls near the end. Which was not always a pretty sound. All three can sing, and the harmonies are amazing, but take the main singer out a harmony and it sounds strange. It is growing on me more and more, and I think they will up their game for the next performance to it will be bigger and better!
8/10

Johannes Bah Kuhnke - Tonight

Simply a joke. Terrible lyrics, melody made by a child, and badly sung.
0/10

Elin Lanto Doctor Doctor:

Seams Elin has been stealing staging ideas from Dj Bobo! Though these mannequins laser red eyes are far more scary than the stangly positioned ones used by Bobo!
The routine is hot, the outfit is very Xmen but I like it, the 80's drummers are amazing and the overall 80's Heart vibe works for me.
I love the shriek she does in "I scream" though it sounds more like Ice Cream.
Does she sing 'There's no time for pee-peeing?' Though I really doubt it, that is all I can hear and seams like she would not get on with Andreas Johnson! The lit up hair and wind machine dance was also a genius move. The more I watch the video the more I love the song. It should have got a second chance I think! Her vocal is flawless throughout.
7/10

Erik Linder - Hur Kan Jag Tro På Kärlek:

Vintage Schlager that sounds very Barbados Magnus Carlsson era, or a Magnus Carlsson Christmas track. Not a bad song but just does not really go anywhere. When the rest want on stage its a very boring performance. I can't really fault the song but it was just bland!
5/10

Getty Domein - Yeba:

Overall it is a pleasant song, but for me all the parts are good but just don't click together. Singer does not sound in key, the backing track doesn't really match the lyrics, the dancers are random, and a better outfit than the suit would work. Gets very repetitive. Makes me a little uncomfortable as with simple changes it could be so stronger!
5/10

Timoteij - Kom:
No expectations about this band beforehand, but they were easily my favourite of the night. A light pop-folk song with an extremely catchy chorus! 4 Scandi-Blondes doing the funny faces to the camera and hair flicks violists etc do when not singing, see Bond for example. It just bounces along so happily and would be a really catchy Eurovision track I think especially in English. It is the first Melodifestivalen track this year that sounds as top quality as last years entries. It just might be a dark horse in pop-folk clothing!
9/10

Darin - You're Out Of My Life:
Stand choice of song idea, signing about someone who has died. The 'life/knife' rhyme makes me cringe a little. If it had a more guitar song it would have Westlife written all over it! It is a disappointment for Darin. I love his work but its not his best and it is quite forgettable. Would fade at Eurovision.
I wished his balled to be more Encore Otra Vez One More Time but it was not meant to be.
The 'Sorry' at the end is an apology especially for me!
7/10

Crucified Barbara - Heaven Or Hell:
Enjoyable girl glam rock! Rock doesn't tend to do well at Eurovision though unless OTT like Lordi or slicker as was Vanilla Ninja. It does sound more Heart than Elin. One of the strongest songs in Melodifestivalen 2010 so far, but weak Eurovisionwise I think.
6/10

So who made it through......
To Globen: Timoteij och Darin
To Andra Chansen: Alcazar och Crucified Barbara

MIA Verdict:
Whole show had very 80' vibe to it. The interval act Blue Man Group had no relevance but was good! I think this could have been the strongest week of Melodifestivalen 2010, but was still weak compared to last year! Elin should have got through but it is not the biggest loss! Alcazar need to rise to the challenge of Andra Chansen especially as they are up against Jessica Andersson. With one heat to go there needs to be something amazing or this is going to be a weak year for Sweden at Eurovision!
I'm hoping Pernilla stays true to her word and Saves Schlager!!

Melodifestivalen 2010: Semi Final 2 Sandviken Review

2010-02-16T21:03:00.006Z

Roll Up Roll for Melodifestivalen heat två at Göransson Arena in Sandviken!
After the agreeable result and on/off magic of Heat 1 last weekend, as reviewed by moi HERE the Melodi train moves on and we are graced with 8 new acts!

I'v had a crazy busy week, so this post has been stopped and started over the past 7 days!

No show stopping opening this week, though I did enjoy the presenter spoofs. As you know I can't speak much svenska so much was lost on me, but I could easily pick out Petra, Lena and Charlotte's characteristics! The stage, the show, the spectacle are all there, so are the wonderful balloons! All we are missing is the action man presented Dolph Lundgren! No clue what was up, if anyone could enlighten me that would be fabulous!

Anyway this week we have Velma Kelly and George Sampson impersonations, and someone singing a Shayne Ward song... on we go then!

Eric Saade - Manboy:
From the first 10 seconds of this song I knew we had a major performance on our hands. A male teen heartthrob standing on stage up first just as last week with Ola, but what Eric has over Ola is an amazing performance. The performance I was so aching for Ola to break into! Oh What A Dance Routine! The fencing was inspired and the dance break was insatiable!
The routine was a bit like George Sampson's winning Britain's Got Talent number, but with more people on stage, less body popping and better choreography!

Yes he did do the fantastic dancing in the rain near the end of hi number a la Sampson! It was spectacular from start to finish, and that is just the heat, got a feeling it will be even bigger for the final!
The song however was pretty underwhelming. It was wrote by modern King of Eurovision Fredrik Kempe, but just lacked his usually perfectionist magic and unforgettable lyrics. The chorus basically consists of one word, Manboy, which isn't that a great a word to be honest! The lyrics feel like a cheap King Kempe rip-off! The tune was hot and the key change was typically dramatic for Kempe, but overall it did not compare in amazingness to Eric's début single Sleepless:

Why was this not sent??? Though this is the same mark as Ola last week, Ola's song is much stronger, but Eric's performance kicked its ass so it all weighs up! 6/10

Andra Generationen & Dogge Doggelito - Hippare Hoppare:

Harmless track, nothing special that was a least better than their last offering, though being honest it sounds the same.
There will be something like this at Eurovision no doubt so can't really knock it!
4/10

Anna-Maria Espinosa - Innan alla ljusen brunnit ut:

Ballad that gives me nothing and sounds shaky.
All the way through I was thinking of last years similar but far far better Melodifestivalen entry Susanne Alfvengren- Du är älskad där du går which I reviewed HERE last year. It is mesmerising and powerful, where this is ignorable and weak.
3/10

MiSt & Highlights - Come And Get Me Now:

I was excited about this one, wanted to see how if the Web Wildcard would work or not. When the winning artists MiSt came on stage I thought it was going to be a cheesy club singer style duo with a upbeat song that I would love!
Then Highlights lead singer walked to the front with the swagger and charm of a certain other dansband favourite Magnus Carlsson formally of Barbados, oh he's suave!
Think we've found a new star in the making, though he does look a bit like a ginger Freddie Mercury in that outfit. This ended up one of my favourites of the night. I loved the Take Me To Your Heaven style bounce to it! Even the key change was decent! MiSt did look a bit like his aunt and uncle joining in, but this song should have done a lot better! This will be a mp3 classic for me I'm sure!
7/10

Pauline - Sucker For Love
This was either gonna be hit or miss! She was a much disliked Wildcard choice by some, especially with rumours of Lena Philipsson and Linda Sundblad flying around. I was hoping for big things though as her main single so far Give Me a Call is a sweet piece of soul-pop! I was expecting a Emilia style swingband and gold lights classic chic staging. We were greeted however with a colourful display, dancers and even a funky hairstyle. Imagine the girl for the Noisettes mixed with Hello Kitty. The song was actually higher than expected, really catchy chunk of funky pop with good staging and styling.
Maybe a bit too 'cool' for Eurovision though, but I will be cheering her on in Andra Chansen!
7/10

Andreas Johnson - We Can Work It Out
The weakest entry Andreas has done. I've never been a massive fan of his Bono-like voice, but his songs have had some magic and character to it. For example Sing For Me is never skipped on my mp3 player! A Little Bit Of Love is even cheerful enough! My favourite of all was his Melodi failure with Queen Carola:

Probably better without him though, Her notes are electric!
This years song though is just a boring ballad.
The melody is a mash up of these two songs but with guitars.

It can't be just me that hears it!?!
It's a big candle swaying song that is just dreary. Only saving is the fact he says 'You cover me with piss' or 'You cover me with peas' whichever is your favourite! A cheap giggle in a cheap mash-up!
5/10

Kalle Moraeus & Orsa Spelmän - Underbart
Sounds fake irish song sang by drunk pub men. nothing offensive just dull, dragging an repetitive. Listening to it back badly sang too. And the ending is very Harry Hill style!
4/10

Hanna Lindblad "Manipulated"

Oh I was excited for this one! Show had been quite dry so wanted a lift!
Then I heard the first verse and thought this song is going to sound far better studio than live. It's hard to sound hot singing so robotic like without the special studio effects you gt on CD's. Looking all Catherine Zeta Jones she gets dragged across the floor to the hottest disco beat! Genius!
The chorus brings the kind of moment that makes me swear my life away to Melodifestivalen! LOOK AT HER STRUT! AMAZING!
The dancers scuttling while crouching is hilarious and a little creepy but goes so well with the song.
The in-a-row-but-have-many-arms is just as epic and bang on timed as the strut!
This should have at least had a second chance just to see the performance again! the song though just isn't a Live song, its a studio number I feel!
Her dancer and her dance skills are spot on, unlike her vocals! They steal the show and who ever staged that needs a promotion!
8/10

So who made it through......
To Globen: Eric och Andreas Yawnson, oops I Johnson!
To Andra Chansen: Pauline och Kalle & Orsa.

MIA Verdict: Hanna was definitely robbed by the snoozefest that was Underbart!
Pauline was robbed by Andreas!
Second Melodi week still had boring songs out weighing amazing ones. Last years heats seamed to each be packed with amazing songs, with the best ones making it through.
It's going to be a man-mad final with Darin & Peter Jöback still to come! Sweden wants a male soloist it seams! Be careful what they wish for as that last got them 19th with Martin Stenmarck! A song about Las Vegas but with no showgirls, instead women in tracksuits... cruising for failure! It was also a weak song in an amazingly strong year!
This Saturday holds some big Pop contenders. However after being disappointed by Eric and Ola, I won't set my expectations too high!

A Place Where Everyone's Dares To Go... They Call It Xanadu

2010-02-10T18:58:00.009Z

I logged on to Youtube today to find a newly posted video by Scottish Singer/Songwriter Sharleen Spiteri... seriously sorry for the S overload!
The video title intrigued me. I was known the sound that would be unleashed through the click of a play button, I would have ran and hide under my duvet, or shoved plugs in my ears!

(For some reason video can only be seen in full article! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr3BgSqzW_Q)
Oh Lord! As part of her 'The Movie Songbook' album Sharleen has covered this evergreen classic, broke off all its branches then set fire to it.
Why oh Why? I liked her in Texas, but her voice just grates on me in this song. I even liked her last album, but somehow her talent is lost on me in this!
This must be the most banal video ever made. It doesn't help that the backing singers are quite irritating, especially the white topped one who has to motion ever word she sings. My favourite bit though is at 2.32 when Sharleen seams to play an orchestra solely through her guitar!
Why is she singing it so seriously? Xanadu is built on camp and spectacle.
After the break I will show Sharleen how it should be done.

First up we have the benchmark, the classic itself in all its OTT glamour!

Olivia Newton John really is a legend! Her voice is effortlessly with everlasting beauty.

First up on the cover journey is failed British girl/boy band Pop!

Planned as their 4th single, this track has the essence of Steps 'Tragedy' all over it, and should have been just as big! Its nothing adventurous but takes the Olivia magic up-to-date, and doesn't take itself seriously!

Next up is the Goddess of Gays - Dannii Minogue.

Her electro ballad version is ok on the chill-out front, but drains the song of its life and character. It would probably be perfect song to sunbath to by a crystal clear sea, with cocktail in hand. She however does fellow Ozy Olivia proud with her TV performance of the track. Divalicious! Her pink and purple styling make her look both beautiful and angelic.

The final cover is my favourite, by Filipino superstar Regine Velasquez:

It has beauty and heart, sang perfectly and the guitar piano combo makes it both playful and original. It makes the song relevant without forgetting its origins and 'message', if it has one! I can listen to this over and over and never get bored.
I think this version would be perfect for Olivia to cover and release today. Very post-modern covering a cover of your song, but I would be truly special!

Finally I couldn't talk about Xanadu without mentioning the insanely perfect looking musical based on the film! Here is a quick clip of the Tony's performance. The show looks so magical and I can't wait till it comes to the West End now that its Broadway run is over!

Melodifestivalen 2010: Semi Final 1 Örnsköldsvik Review

2010-02-06T17:30:00.009Z

Wow it really is here! Last night Melodifestivalen was live from the Fjällräven Center Örnsköldsvik, showing all over the globe via the net!
The stage is magnificent, the presenters are strong especially Måns, the opening act was spectacular and the voting result was agreeable overall!
So if you missed the show and want a low-down of the night click on, If you are still to watch it cover your eyes!

I took my seat at my computer, dominoes pizza in one hand and Kopparberg pear cider in the other! Maybe next week I'll have meatballs!
I logged on to SVTPlay and sat back as the hallåa introduced Melodifestivalen 2010!
Buzzing with excitement, the last thing I was expecting was the spectacular Öppningsnumret that was to come!

Tre metallic goddesses strut onto the stage to perform a show stopping number! Two Melodi Legends, Charlotte Perrelli & Nanne Grönwall, and two time contestant Sonja Aldén make up this perfectly height stacked trio. It's only 5 minutes in and already I have witnessed the Melodi favourites; wind machine, smoke machine, smoke cannons, finger pointing, and the mother of all key changes! I already love this song, but this key change must be kept in it forever now!

With the Schlager perfection still embedded in my memory, the competition begins!

Ola Svensson - Unstoppable:
The song itself is interesting. The piano rhythm is hot and the chorus is cathy. It really fits in with Ola's recent vibe, however it lack his usual summer song. the lyrics are quite weak, and Natalie's return I'm not sure would be welcomed by her! He seams to have gone off her a bit since 2007, and she seams to have gone mad. His outfit is nothing special, and the staging was boring. I was waiting for dancers to come on, even a single 'Natalie' dancer to make the stage look less empty. Instead Ola did the same performance he will probably make at shopping centres up and down Sweden.
6/10

Jenny Silver - A Place To Stay:

Looking at the Melodi line-up for this heat, I had no opinion of this song. From Jenny's previous work I assumed it would be a musical style ballad, or something Snälla, Snälla sounding. Instead it started like Madonna's Vogue, then MJ's Billie Jean, finally becoming a chill out dance number from outer space. Her 'dance' is light and fits the song, the sniffing of her fingers at the start though is a bit strange. Her outfit is Lady GaGa but in s Cheryl Cole - 3 Words style. If Jenny had dancers doing something like Cheryl's video around her, it would have been a far more interesting performance. Overall I do love the song, and it will be an MP3 fav of mine, however it isn't a visual song, and would blend too far in at Eurovision.
6/10

Linda Pritchard - You're Making Me Hot-Hot-Hot:

Finally a song that's mixed song, singer and stage perfectly for Eurovision.
Something very Ani Lorak - Shady Lady about this, but that is never a bad thing!
The song itself is very similar to Ricki-Lee - Can't Touch This. Again that's not a bad thing! It has a touch of the Beverly Hills Cop Theme. Finally near the end we get a hint of Ruslana - Wild Dances. This girl has done her homework! Overall it is a classic Melodi track, with wind machines, long note after keychange, and plenty of strutting. It was my favourite of the night and was also the best visual performance of the show.
7/10

Pain of Salvation - Road Salt:
The song is an John Lennon Imagine wannabe song, with a Foo Fighters style singer. He has an amaizng voice, but the song is just a bit dragging and unoriginal for me. It just doesn't start before it's over, just builds to nowhere. It is not a bad song, just nothing special.
3/10

Anders Ekborg - The Saviour:

The performance & song is like a hotel cabaret version of Phantom of the Opera meets Les Miserables staged on scaffolding. The use of Les Mis Lovely Lady dancers makes Anders appear slightly sleazy. He is a bit like a drunk man who has stumbled into Les Miserables. All very bizarre. His nasal voice also grates on me.
4/10

Jessica Andersson - I Did It For Love:
An other musical style number. I was more impressed than I thought I would be. Jessica is far stronger when Schlagertastic. Her voice doesn't seam to have enough strength at some points to hold this ballad alone. It is no Empty Room! Her dress made her look far bigger than she is, and her hair was boring compared to her usual glamorama styles. Maybe it will grow on me, but for now it just doesn't reach its full potential in my eyes.
5/10

Frispråkarn - Singel:

When I saw the staging and spinning vinyl I was expecting good things to come. However instead it was a very Eurovision style song, but sounded more Markoolio than Kanye West. It sounds like Lemon Ice's version of Girl You Know It's True. The beat was hot and the chorus catchy, but the female singers were all painfully screechy. I wonder who they slept with to get that job!
4/10

Salem Al Fakir - Keep On Walking:
I did not know what to expect from Salem. I knew it would be a credible piece of piano based pop. However I though there would be a more synth song to it. Instantly I fell for the song. Its catchy and soulful, floating along melody and sweet lyrics. The cute way his mouth moves when he sings and his look reminds me of Joakim och Joel a lot. The song would do well in the UK market I think. It would sink at Eurovision, but is pleasant enough to possibly win Melodifestivalen. It's a track I will play a lot, and it will grow more and more on me i'm sure. Performance wise the piano simplicity worked as he is an interesting musician to watch, and tells the story with his face.
8/10

So who made it through......
To Globen: Salem och Ola
To Andra Chansen: Jessica och Pain in the Ass, oops I mean Pain of Salvation.

MIA Verdict: 3 of my fav 4 got through. I was gutted for Linda, but I'm sure this is not the last of her! She will remain with the Melodi legends who fell at the first hurdle such as Velvet - The Queen. Jenny would have not made it past Andra Chansen so it's ok she left at this stage, but her song should not be forgotten!
Ola needs to up his game performance wise, Salem maybe needs some aerial silk performers behind him to make it more of a performance worth of Eurovision.
And Pain of Salvation will stay the same, and till not impress me!

It was hilarious when Salem was pushed on stag during Ola's final performance. Looked very awkward, no reason for him to be there!

Good first week, some strong, some weak. Nothing amazing though. Best is still to come? I hope so!

Melodifestivalen 2010: MIA Predictions

2010-02-05T16:39:00.008Z

OMG! Tomorrow the Melodifestivalen finally kicks off! I hope you feel slightly prepared from my Melodi posts ett och två!

My photo above shows you my the top 10 contestants I am most looking forward to.
If you have not already noticed, I am a strange one! I love Melodifestivalen but as a strict rule I do not listen to any previews of the songs before the actual show. I judge each song on the staging, performance and emotion as well as on the song itself. I also feel by prejudging it, it looses the mystery and excitement of the live show! I am such a child, this is my Schlager Christmas ha! If you wish you can hear the clips here, however the exquisite ScandiPop warn against it!

So my Top 10 are based on past musical outputs, past Melodi songs, and general excitement to hear their song! Chances are I will be wrong , and the new comers to Melodifestivalen will have better entries! I would have never predicted loving the 2009 Scotts entry last year!

My Top 10, in excitement order are:

1. Eric Saade - Manboy: What a song title! His 1st single Sleepless is amazing, and he has Fredrik Kempe on his team!
2. Elin Lanto - Doctor Doctor: I have loved her last 3 singles, and think were in for an other pop/disco masterpiece!
3. Darin - You're Out Of My Life: I do LOVE Darin, as explained here. However as the song is a ballad he rates lower with me than expected. Title sounds emotional.
4. Alcazar - Headlines: Stay The Night was insanely brilliant, so Headlines has a high expectation! I am just not sure it will hit the mark!
5. Pernilla Wahlgren - Jag vill om du vågar: A big assed Svenska Schlager anthem is expected, and I am sure she wont disapoint!
6. Sibel - Stop: Her first Melodi hit was gorgeous, and her new look makes m more excited about this song than I was when she was announced!
7. Ola Svensson - Ola never fails to disappoint with his singles, but his 1st Melodi entry wasn't his best!
8. Pauline - Sucker For Love: I like her sound and think she could be this year Emilia, who I LOVED last year!
9. Jessica Andersson - I Did It For Love: This girl is Schlager royalty, but her princess tiara might be slipping by choosing a ballad!
10. Lovestoned - Thursdays: They have promise, and I think they will raise there game for Melodi!

I think Hanna Lindblad will be a dark horse for me this year. Manipulated is a fabulous title!
My gut says Peter Jöback - Hollow, Peter teamed with the gifted Fredrik Kempe has an extreme chance to win the show!

Let's see how right or wrong I am!

Melodifestivalen 2010: The Hosts! 3 Days to Go!

2010-02-04T09:30:00.001Z

On a scale of 1 to 10 how excited is everyone about Meldoifestivalen starting this Saturday! I'm over and above tio (10) for sure!
This is the second blog giving you a heads up for 2010 comp, see part one here!

This post focusses on the masters of ceremony who will be smoothly guiding us from Ballad to Big Assed Schlager, from Reggae to Folk Rock.

First up we have Christine Meltzer. Following in the footsteps of last years host Petra Mede, Christine is also a comedian. I personally think Petra did a fantastic job last year, even though I do not speak Swedish well! I think she is quite similar to UK presenter Davina McCall in the way you either love her or dislike her! Now there are three people to do Petra's job, so Christine's got an easier job but will have to be just as funny to hold her own against the two men!
Thinking about the Melodifestivalen line-up, Christine might have some explaining to do when she meets the contestants she parodied in the show 'Hey Baberiba'! I don't know what she is saying but their spoofs of 2010 contestants Darin, Peter Jöback and especially Pernilla Wahlgren don't look too flattering!

Next up is a very random choice I would think, actor, model and now TV presenter Dolph Lundgren. Most famous for his role in the Rocky films, Dolph is well known for his physic and Swedelicious looks. He seams like a perfect Celebrity Big Brother, or Let's Dance contestant, but luckily for him his comeback is presenting Sweden's biggest TV music show! I thought this video shows most of what you need to know about him:

Last but in no means least, the line-up is complete by twice former Melodifestivalen superstar Måns Zelmerlöw! Måns is a legend in my eyes! First he wowed on Idol, coming 5th to Pop Princess Agnes Carlsson. Then took a soon to be traditional route to Let's Dance, triumphing this time! Next stop was the mighty Melodifestivalen. His song only got in due to disqualification, but was the 2007 masterpiece Cara Mia! He came 3rd, better than idol, less than Let's Dance!

This song is epic! The dark lyric and emotion is mesmerising. It's like a lead track from 'Stalker: The Musical'! Even the dance routine is exciting! It's a classic from the start and guaranteed him a place in Schlager Glory History!

Which links very smoothly to his 2009 Melodi comeback.. Hope & Glory:

Måns knew there was a chance of winning in 2009. With the huge following he gained since 2007 he was a lead contender to take the trophy and represent Sweden. I liked the start spinning light, almost reminiscent of the 2007 fan light! He definitely upped his game, stronger staging, stronger routine, stronger camera work. The Bond style and Pussycat Doll look dancers were a terrific touch, and the key change is too die for! I did love this song, but as it was practically Hero Part 2, and that had to be jury chosen for the final in Eurovision, I didn't think Sweden's prospects would be too high if he won!
Luckily he won the Jury vote, but had his chances crushed by the telephone vote. I really felt for him, he smiled and thanked but if I was in his shiny black shoes, I would be gutted! He has many Melodi years ahead of him, and it is almost unusual to see him presenting so soon!

I think this years presenting line up will be strong, how they will share the duties I am not sure, we will have to wait and find out!

The New Sound Of The Underground...

2010-02-01T17:27:00.004Z

As I am sure many you will know the Swedish girlband Play are back in action!
I blogged about them a few posts ago here!
Now their lead track Famous has been launched in full on the net, I have included the video inside the 'read more' section.

My concentration is however on the B-side to this track called Girls, but first a slight tangent, but follow it as it is more a chain of thought!

Some times I wonder to myself what went so right with Girls Aloud. I remember hearing the song and seeing the video for the first time, and knowing this was something special. Something built to last longer than typical Popstars bands such a Hear'Say! They would be the UK's No Angels, strong, fresh and talented! I also wonder if their success would have been so big if they had for example released Sacred Trust instead of One True Voice! Their Greatest Hits album did some food for thought by including their edit, listen here. To be honest I could happily listen to that on replay, but it is still no Sound of The Underground!

My second wonder is, what would Sound of the Underground song like if released today? Would it be a fresh sound? Well this question can't truly be answered, but listing to Play - Girls I think I get a rough idea!

The rock/pop/electro attitude just has the vibe and energy of Sound of the Underground. This song would not seam out of place on a Girls Aloud album. It would be a perfect film soundtrack song. Imagine how hot the video would be!
I will say again... Sanne's voice is AMAZING!

Though it is near impossible to match the iconic standard of the Sound of the Underground routine, Play are even using the mic stand in an oh so Girls Aloud style!

If this is a b-side then I can't wait for Play's album!

Here is Famous, their lead single in full as promised!

Melodifestivalen 2010: The Stage(Scenskissen)! 1 Week to Go!

2010-01-30T15:47:00.009Z

OMG... It is nearly that time again! The time when my heart is filled with Swedelicious music, key changes and wind machines for 6 glorious weeks!
Yes next week the first Melodifestivalen heat hits Swedish screens, and my pc via SVT live stream! I can't contain my excitement!
2010 will not just be the first Meldoi of this decade, but the first one attended by myself!! Yes it is true, Madam I'm Adam will be watching all the finalists from Globen on March 13th! EXTREME EXCITEMENT!

Before the Örnsköldsvik heat I hope to have a few posts giving you a run down of this years competition.
Today I checked the SVT site to find the magnificent concept drawing for the 2010 stage!

Looks like SVT used my blog design as their style pallet, I'm flattered!
The design looks magnificent. Bright and really displays the 'Festival' vibe which has been used in all the promo videos:

How I dream of living in this block of flats!
By the looks of the stage design, the left hand side might possibly be the green room. I can almost make out extremely uncomfortable looking seats! This positioning would benefit me though as that's the side my seats are on!

The staging is a far cry from the 2008 construction site style staging:

It was very creative, and showed the likes of Charlotte Perrelli and Linda Bengtzing at their best!
It looked like a playground due for closure by Health & Safety.
The catwalk was used well by Sanna Nielsen, by well I mean sat and sang meaningfully on it. It did however cut off half the audience from centre stage, I was not a huge fan of this!

Then the 2009 stage came along and kicked 2008's ass:

Notice it's the same girl on stage as 2010... how did she get that job? why does she only have one pose? why is it not a finger point? Where is her glittery outfit?
So many unanswered questions!
The stage was magnificently sparkling with its black and white look, but a hint of glamorous silver!
The Scenskissen was at its most breathtaking during the La Voix masterpiece:

Gives me chills every time! The simplicity of covering the side bits in white made the whole performance extra special. The green and pink lighting, then the white-wash choruses gave the whole song an added regal tone. Without the staging, the song would have not been the same!

So now we have covered the stage and the preview clips... coming up hopefully I'll give you a presenter run-down, my predictions, and a briefing on week ones artists!

I'm Ready To Play Again.. Let's Get Famous!

2010-01-24T17:17:00.005Z

When I heard the Swedish Pop Sensation Play were reforming under the extremely successful hands of their creator Laila Bagge, Andreas Carlsson and Anders Bagge I was mega excited!
When Play were big in the USA, around the same time as A*teens, they were consistently under my radar. With very little European success, I just assumed they were one of the many American girlbands in the USA at the time. However their début single 'Us Against the World' was a perfect pop gem to sum up the post-millennium pop sound:

Their songs then on followed a similar structure, with highlight singles such as a bizarre cover of Annie's Hard Knock Life, and a not as good as Atomic Kitten version of Whole Again:

Like many a female musician/group in America, after a few years of being child stars the girls sexed themselves up for their single I Must Not Chase Boys, I chose the Thunderpuss Radio Mix as I prefer this version.

In 2003 one of their main singers Faye left to study, and Janet Leon joined.
Breaking up in 2005, Play went their separate ways and created far more interesting music apart in my opinion!
Faye covered the Fleetwood Mac classic Go Your Own Way for the department store MQ, which is their traditional promo song, Rosanna created the yet to be release Gameboy along with many other exciting electro pop tunes, and Janet in 2009 took part in the TV4 show Made In Sweden to launch her solo career which included the immense track Heartbreak on the Dancefloor:

Following Janet's Made in Sweden success, in 2009 the 2 of the original girls Anais and Faye (Now calling herself Fanny, that will be fun when they head back to the USA or UK!) rejoined to appear on the 2010 version of Made In Sweden. They have a new member in the form of the insanely gifted singer Sanne Karlsson. I urge anyone who hasn't heard of this little Swedish gem to check out her breathtaking vocal on the Ghost vs Sanne album Hold This Girl. I meant to blog about the album as I was addicted to the original Swedish tracklist version. It was the most overlooked album in 2009!

After watching the first two episodes of Made In Sweden online (via TV4 Play, then again via Youtube with English subtitles!), though I can not understand what they are saying, the music they have played for the planned new album sounds AWESOME! Here is a taster of their first track, the theme tune for the show, Famous:

So 2010 looks like it will bring us a fantastic album from the new look Play, and I do applaud them for going down this route rather than Melodifestivalen, though I LOVE Melodifestivalen!

Guess The Song: Let's Dance!

2010-01-23T17:16:00.004Z

Over the past 3 weeks I have been following the Swedish version of Strictly Come Dancing/Dancing with the Stars, Let's Dance on TV4.
My love for Sweden has never been a secret on this blog, however I'm going to tell you an other reason why I love this country!
Firstly I do not watch Strictly in the UK, they take it far too seriously and as a result it has become predictable and quite dull. Let's Dance, however, is a celebration of dance and music packed with fun, and not 'Strict' at all!
The reason I love Let's Dance is their sometimes bizarre music choices. Once again in the UK Strictly are quite stuck in their traditional ballroom/latin music, and old artists such as Frank Sinatra. I understand these songs are perfect for the style of dance, but the resulting playlist would not be seen dead on my mp3 player!

Here are two perfect examples of how Strictly use modern music:

Both sound practically the same as the original music, timing and rhythm wise. And they do fit to the timing and rhythm of the dance, but there is nothing very exciting about them!
Flip over to Sweden though and as ever, when it comes to music, they are AMAZING!
Check out these Week 2 performances by Elin Kling & Daniel da Silva and
Mattias Andreasson & Cecilia Ehrling:

I much prefer Mattias to Elin based on performance, but musically I am besotted by what Let's Dance have done to the tracks. Unlike Strictly who would ignore these tracks because they are not tango tracks, Let's Dance say "sod this let's just make them tango!" creating the perfect Spanish holiday covers band! Though elements of the original tracks are there, the majority is just a random tango tune set to the lyrics! Perfection!

Last night,Week 3 unleashed the 'Greatest Hits' so far of Let's Dance!
First up, Claudia Galli & Tobias Wallin with this slightly altered track & spectacular performance, full of stomping:

These two don't particularly work, but get an A+ for trying using the song and trying extremely hard to fit it to a dance style! First Molly Sandén & Jonathan Näslund with a eerie cover, especially the zombie noises and the end. Then Stefan Sauk & Malin Johansson cover which sounds like it is being played from an old cassette that started speeding up with age. Loving the bell use 55 seconds in!
Try guess the song before the lyrics kick in:

Now time for a direct comparison between Let's Dance genius and Strictly predictability! From Let's Dance we have Peter Wahlbeck & Maria Bild taking a track and completely redoing it for the sole purpose of dancing the Quickstep to it! Watch this clip before Ali Bastian & Brian Fortuna and see if you can guess the track, and which you prefer:

FABULOUS! FABULOUS! FABULOUS!

Finally here are by two favourite song remixes of the night, by coincidence it is Elin and Mattias again! 100 points to anyone who can guess where Elin Kling och Daniel Da Silva's song is going before the lyrics start! I was baffled but the Grease style twist to the track makes a hot jive! Mattias Andréasson och Cecilia Ehrling's shows his amazing dance skills, but also the most amazing show band vocal! Half the rap may be mumbles but I'm still impressed! You would never hear this song on Strictly! Jive Bunny 2010?

So what have we learned? To get better ratings, well at least one more, Strictly need to start dancing to any track as long as it is amazing! Imagine Alexandra Burke's Band Boys as a Jive, or Cheryl Cole's Fight For This Love as a Tango? And Let's Dance need to release and album like Strictly but in the style of Anna Book's album!
I can't wait to see what remixes Let's Dance has in store!

Hayley Newton & Drew McOnie, I'm speechless!

2010-01-16T23:36:00.006Z

When the BBC announced they were bringing So You Think You Can Dance to the UK I wasn't too fussed as I was not a massive fan of Strictly Dance Fever, practically the same show!
However having watched it the past two weeks I've grown to love it! Not the voting and 'this is my life' mush in the results show, nor the judges comments which consist of Nigel talking for half and hour, leaving very little time for Icon/Pop Princess/Will-Eat-nothing-for-TV Louise to speak, I love the dancing!
This week Hayley & Drew melted my heart with their outstanding performance to Lady GaGa's Beatles homage 'Speechless'!

The emotion, the technique, the story all merge together to create this artistic masterpiece!
There bodies move as if on strings, like they are two fighting rag dolls.
A love/hate story told so naturally through amaizng choreography!
The shoulder hold and drop is the work of genius! So connected, So in time!
Lady GaGa I'm sure would love the art and glamour that consumes this dance.
Don't think I will tire of watching this...

It's crazy though as my two of my favourite dances from week one included both Drew & Hayley! Drew & Anabel and Chris & Hayley were in the bottom two last week, after Hayely's hip shaking Samba,

and Drew's show stopping Jive,

The funktastic song plus the lightning energy made me beam throughout their Jive! May have not been technically perfect, but I was definitely not the worst that night!

Hopefully this show will keep up and we will have some more intense and sprightly performances!
Just wait till you see the dancer I'm in love with in Sweden though...

Merry Christmas/ God Jul To Everyone!

2009-12-25T01:18:00.004Z

Hello one and all!
Sorry my advent suddenly disappeared! I went off to Stockholm, fell in love with the city once more, got ill when I got home, then was busy bee at work! Been hectic since the 9th so here is a bumper music post!
Huge thank you for following the blog for the past year, and I wish you an amazing Christmas!

P.s. The 2009 Advent Calender has been re-dated as 2008 so move it off the blog front page. Click Advent 2009 label to see them!

3 Words for Cheryl Cole... Lady GaGa Effect!

2009-11-27T20:09:00.003Z

It's crazy isn't it!?! You wait a whole decade for an era defining popstar, and one comes along in the last 2 years! The world has gone GaGa for Lady G, and her iconic style has been copied and pasted all over the world!
Prime example today comes from Cheryl Cole and her new video feat. Will.I.am.

Wowzers... all the money they saved on the cheap scale début video Fight for This Love must have been saved for this rainy day! The song is just bland I think, maybe it will be a grower! I think it will have a fantastic remix that knock the pants off me!
However the video is just intense! I was transfixed throughout! Its so Swedish it hurts, so arty and beautiful!
Around the 1m mark though I think Cheryl looks a little Great Expectations-esc, like she's been sitting there for days. Looks a little ill!
Till 1m 40ish the whole thing is very GaGa chic... and then she just goes all out blatantly Lady G! It reminds me as a mix of Lady GaGa and Emma Bunton's Maybe video (how I heart that song!)!
2m10ish gets all Kylie Slow video!
2m27ish were back to Gaga... but a Sims Version or anime cartoon version of Lady GaGa.
Cheryl looks damn pretty in it though, and rocks the white hair better than Victoria did in Not Such an Innocent Girl!
As much as the song still drains on me... I can't stop watching the video... I almost want to do a Kanye and scream its the best video ever... but my common sense stops me!

P.s. I have watched the video many times for blogging purposes, and still forget Will.I.Am is in the video each time haha... he's like a human goldfish in this, so dull, and I forget him after 3 seconds!

A Classic For Eternity?

2009-11-26T18:08:00.005Z

Have been crazy busy as of late so apologise for lack of update! While I'm not here though have a click around my other posts if you need time to fill haha!

Today I stumbled across this song, I Will by Eternity from Japan on Youtube. The lead singer is various blogs' favourite Jade Valerie who was in the band Sweetbox.

Sweetbox as a band never really hit it off with me. They were good pop, but lacked the glamour of Alcazar, or the music quality of Steps. Their niche was mixing classic music with pop, a la S Club 7 Natural.

However this song I have instantly fallen for! I Will samples the Spring section from The Four Seasons by Vivaldi (which took my AGES to work out even though its the annoying phone ringtone at work!) and from the start it's used perfectly!
As soon a the full scale classical blast ends, the song begins to sore higher!
The 'Monday, Tuesday' bit is goes much further than silly old Craig David, and mentions marriage! The chorus is like a princesses song from a Disney musical film.
The Viva La Vida style drum/violin combo just excels the song along even more!
We will ignore the 1m 50s mark 'Ohs' as the song is far to pretty to be ruined by an interesting choice of 'Oh' notes.
Overall it's just beautiful from start to finish!

Just as an add on I have found these guilty pleasure classical sins on spotify..

Flashdance.. What a Feeling by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra!
How magnificent? It has all the sparkle of the original, but with heightened drama! I love the glorious choir, and the surprise at 2m 50s makes my heart scream with joy!

Poker Face by the St. Martin’s Symphony of Los Angeles
It's just funny yet addictive. Once again their is a crazy amount of drama given to the song! Imagine Lady GaGa singing to this live... IMMENSE!

September Would Be Wild! M.I.A. Melodifestivalen Campaign!

2009-11-05T15:04:00.005Z

After the Darin for Meldoifestivalen news, as blogged about here, I started to think who would be ideal for Melodifestivalen/Eurovision 2010!
It didn't take long for me to realise the obvious best choice for Sweden would be to pick the Dance/Pop Princess September!
As reported over at one of my favourite blogs, the legendary ScandiPop, September is currently in the studio working on her next domination of the international club dancefloor scene!

2008 was the year September took it global, raking up UK Top 5, Numerous Top 10's, and a US Dance chart Number 1 with the spectacular 'Cry For You'!

This catchy, danceable tune with substance is the definition of Septembers work. Her lyrics are not the usual throw away types you get in most dance songs. They tell stories and another level to her songs, which would be perfect for what rightly is the Eurovision SONG Contest!
The only Melodifestivalen connection I can find is her performance at the Lilla Meldofestivalen to promote 'Can't Get Over'. Not as strong a connection as Darin's has, but shows at least she is a supporter of the Meldoi formate!

Overall if she is busy making and album, she will have to promote it when its out. So one extra song for Sweden's biggest music show is easily done and great promotion.
Also if she made it to Eurovision, even if she fails like fellow Princess of dance/pop Kate Ryan, the success Kate has had after Eurovision is easily far greater than before. So much so she is rumoured to be trying again as discussed on Esctoday! And seeing as 'Je T'adore' is one of my favourite Eurovision tracks ever, I would definitely support a similar song by September! I would even accept a Velvet style The Queen from her!

As part of the Madam Im Adam campaign to get September to Meldoi, I have started this group... so show your support and join at: http://tiny.cc/sept4melodi

Melodifestivalen Is Starting To Get Wild for Darin!

2009-11-04T21:04:00.006Z

A few days ago the first Melodifestivalen Wildcard was added to the 2010 list!
For those of you not on planet Schlager, it is the one, the only Darin.. as blogged about here!

Now as I talk about Sweden, Meldofestivalen and Swepop nearly all the time, I have discussed with people before the idea of Darin for Melodi!
He is spectacular, and when I get my ass in gear he will be made officially a MIA legend, but I am just not sure how his style will mash with Melodi!
Even though I was not fully impressed by his newest album Flashback, his efforts have been Swedelicious since his Idol exit!

So far Darin has had two major Meldoi connections, firstly is his 2005 best of Melodifestivalen Show, Michael Jackson sounding spin on Lena Philipsson's Melodi/Eurovision classic Det Gör Ont (It Hurts)...

He was an odd looking boy! His performance is electric though. Reminds me a bit of Danny, probably because Darin has never been that Schlager! He commands the stage, and that mic stage like a Schlager-pro! I would love if he was to do a song like this!

However his song for 2010 is supposedly a mid-tempo ballad, sensitive and powerful. This leads extremely well onto Darin's 2009 2nd Melodifestivalen connection when he performed the beautiful Se på mig at the Malmö round...

It is almost effortless! This has been one of my fav Melodi ballads for a long time. Somthing about it, even though I don't understand a lyric still nearly moves me to tears when I here it. And Darin's version moves every emotion in me! Now looking far more handsome than before, he just sings the song with an entrancing power. No show, no Schalger pointing... just him and a classic anthem.
If his song is anything like this, then I am sold and can't wait to see him perform it on the 13th of March when I'm in Globen!

Final video is a looser Meldoi connection, as in it was not officially on the show! This time he is with the Melodifestivalen Queen who he covered before, Lena, signing her other masterpiece Kärleken Är Evig!

I would have loved a studio version of this, or to see the full thing live! He has the Schlager in him.. why hold it back for 2010!

Overall I am expecting big things from Darin. He is one of Sweden's biggest acts at the moment, who will hopefully break the UK soon with Breathing Your Love. If all goes to plan he will have a European fanbase ready to vote come Eurovision time. However if it all goes wrong then I don't think he will loss much, he's big enough and will carry on after. I just want the ballad to knock me off my feet on the first listen! Because Darin can smash a ballad!

OMG You Guys, How Can Something So Amazing Be Legal?

2009-10-17T11:12:00.009+01:00

I am a huge musical fan! There is no denying it! I love the OTT nature, the song out of nowhere attitude, amazing costumes and fantastic emotional reactions!
Two years ago when the first clips and pics of the American production of Legally Blonde the musical hit the internet I was so so so excited! Instantly fell in love with the first released track "OMG You Guys!" Since then I have been wishing for it to head to the West End in London and this year my dream comes true!

Sheridan Smith will be playing Elle Woods, which at first I thought wouldn't work as I didn't really enjoy her in Little Shop of Horrors. I saw the touring version and thought Clare Buckfield
She is a perfect comedian, and ha been hilarious in 2 Pints & her new stint in one of my TV addictions, Benidorm!
Duncan James will be fantastic too I believe! He has the west-end charm and stage presence to really pull off the cheesy heartthrob role! This will be more successful for him than the Blue reunion I'm sure!
A Special shout out too Suzie McAdam who will be making her West End debut in this musical. Suzie went to the same school as me but was in the year above. Her voice dominated many a school production and I always thought her singing was effortless! It is amazing to see she is doing to well and landed such a pretigious musical!

Hopefully I will get to see this in December, maybe catch a few other shows when down too!

Still waiting on more Måns Zelmerlöw Chicago the musical news! He would be amazing in it so hopefully it will go ahead! was better! After seeing this clip though it's clear she is the ideal Elle!

UK vs Sweden: XFactor vs Idol (Very overdue) Week 1 Showdown!

2009-10-16T17:37:00.005+01:00

Here, finally, is the week one showdown between the UK's and Sweden's Number one Talent searches! You might be all over it but If you missed either show last week catch up here before the next round begins! If you don't agree with my views comment away!

Week 1 is brought to you by the word: Disappointment

Top 3 Points....
1. X Factor 2008's Diana Vickers hand has gone Scandinavian
2. Former contestants do battle
3. Cringing aplenty!

You can read in depth my first week review by expanding the post by clicking the link below!

Basically kids and kidettes I have been following both Svenska idol and The X Factor this year, and honestly loving my transnational talent show viewing! Comparing the two is far better than the silly Strictly vs XFactor ratings war!
My reviews of the shows will consist of Battles somewhat like the Melodifestivalen ones done earlier in the blog! However, each battle will have a winner, and at the end Arlene Phillips will display the final score (I'm just chucking some work her way until So You Think You Can Dance starts!)
I am not condoning violence, or encouraging Brits to fight their Swedish equivalents! I promote peace and harmony and hopefully they can learn from each others mistakes! Now if you've had enough Oprah babble.. here's the review!

Battle of the Themes - Sweden: Club Idol / UK: Musical heroes
This is a quite easy battle to place. Once you have seen the line up of Swedish Idol songs you would probably agree it is matter of fact a great club play list! I would happily boogie away a night to the tracks in Paradise Stockholm, if I wasn't far too busy in the Schlager room! The musical hero label falls a bit flat for the UK though when the majority of tracks are by Robbie Williams. So it's more Hero+Guests than Heroes! And seeing as the judges pick the songs, it can't really be the contestants Heroes.

Winner: Sweden

The Obligatory Crowd Pleasing Opening Battle
UK: Rachel Adedeji - Let Me Entertain You / Sweden: Nicklas Hocker - Get This Party Started

As you can see from above, as with the history of all talent competitions, going first is a hard task on the 1st live show! These are the performances that count and determine if your in or out, but try telling that to Aunty Betty who's just come in from the shops and missed the first 5 minutes! If your first up on the first show chances are your going to be missed by half of the viewers who have not flicked on yet, or are preparing themselves for the long haul sit down!
To open the shows and create that 'party' atmosphere 1st shows tend to start with a party pleaser. In both these cases you see potentially credible artist reduced to Redcoats in order to entertain the families at home. They try their best and move around with the gang of dancers.. but ultimately you can see the look of dispare behind their eyes. Worst bits of Rachel's are the out of reference car driving moves @ 1:00, the weird wavy dancer arm motion at 1:20, and her obscene grabbing of her crotch at 1:38.. wait till you get home girl! It's hilarious how Cheryl makes climbing perspex stairs in the same league as climbing Everest. Nicklas's dancers do look like a staff night out gone wrong, and their dance is very Thrilleresque for no reason!
Verdict: Nicklas does a pretty good vocal unlike Rachel. Rachel does have more of a show though, but I still found Nicklas more fulfilling!

Winner: Sweden

The Trying Far Too Hard Battle
UK: Rikki Loney - Back to Black / Sweden: Karolina Brånsgård - Just Dance

Both these acts are trying far far too hard to be the artists they are singing. Karolina looks like a drunk aunt doing karaoke ("I've had a little bit too much" your right so sit down!), who has dressed 'sexy' but ended up looking like she has tinfoil tucked into her pants. She keeps singing the lyrics so polite! The 'rap' bit is exceptional! Rikki is supposedly 'doing it for the Scots' for which I am one! Heaven forbid! This limp Amy impression hows he at least has talent but reaks of falseness. I also think he looks like the killer in Saw, if he were dressed up like a chimp in a suit.
Verdict: You can cover icons like Lady GaGa and Winehouse if your just going to copy them!

Winner: UK

Hit nor Miss Battle
UK: Lloyd Daniels - Cry Me a River / Sweden: Calle Kristiansson - Destiny Calling

Lloyd has a good voice, good style, and ok hair! He also wears tons of make-up and spends this performance awkwardly walking around the stage like his mum has just pushed him on a kids talent show. The 'girlfriend' on stage is far too old for him, and far too drunk by the looks of her styling! She looks like the girl out of Shakespeares Sister. I say bring back Shayne! Calle on the other hand has the same good voice and looks the part, but the song is boring/irritating! His 'dance' doe make up for it, and note to Cheryl Cole... forget perspex stairs, look what Swedes have to deal with, dancing in/on boxes!
Verdict: Neither amazing but Lloyd has better song and could be a UK Darin!

Winner: UK

You Can't Beat the Original Battle
UK: Lucie Jones - Footprints in the Sand / Sweden: Eddie Razaz - Release Me

Lucie has beautiful song, surprisingly Simon agree as he co-wrote it! Her performance just broke me though and it's no Leona! One again we have the overdue 'God Light' as I put it! The big shiny one that appears behind her like heaven has opened. God wind machine use though! Eddie show how difficult this song actually is, which shows how amazing Agnes as a singer is seeing a she is always flawless at it live! The 'realeeease me' bit just doesn't hit the right notes! It is very Eurovision though, but more Belarus than Sweden!
Verdict: Lucie's was tired and overused/predictable, Eddie picked a classic song and didn't do too bad.

Winner: Sweden

How Did They Make The Finals Battle
UK: Jamie Archer - Get It On / Sweden: Reza Ningtyas Lindh - Superstar

Jamie is just awful and dull! He sounds like just anyone! He is a rich little kid with and afro who I have no idea why people think he is worth the finals! It's dull and there are far better reality TV rockers! Reza tried her best, but her words are more noises than lyrics. Maybe with a more soulful song she would do good. The end is just shouting.
Verdict: Hard to tell as both nasty, but Reza I think had the wrong song.

Winner: Sweden

Cool Cats Battle
UK: Olly Murs - She's the One / Sweden: Rabih Jaber - When Love Takes Over

Olly is just a little cute cool cat! This song is ok for him but the start is weak. He build up to shows that he has more soul than Robbie, and that it's not just an impression. It is a bit sickeningly sweet for him. He is a star though! Rabih, though hi clothes look a little silly, is one of my favourite Idol singers. He has the face and voice of a future melodifestivalen or at least album releasing Idol! His performance is just underwhelming though! He could do so much better.
Verdict: Both soulful kitty cats but one had stronger performance!

Winner: UK

Not Full Potential Battle
UK: Danyl Johnson - And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going / Sweden: Erika Selin - About You Now

I don't 'get' Danyl! I think he just shouted his way through his original audition performance. When he just sings it does nothing for me. Very underwhelming performance, but I am hoping for him to give something worth the finals soon! He messed up the slow bit and only got worth listening too after he started shouting in the end! Simon is terrible, it was not worth a standing ovation! He is far too cocky and has a mouth like a gerbil. Dannii is a cringefest, her point was not for public TV. It was inappropriate and fell like a lead balloon. Once again a confusion between Gay and Bisexual, Danyl is Bisexual so he can sing the song however he wants! Erika is not a rocker! She sound in pain all through this song, though is a fantastic underused talent show hit (This point probably due to Cheryl being an XFactor judge)! Why are the dancers so slow? She has more to give but this isn't enough.
Verdict: Try better next time! I really want to 'get' Danyl, but he gives me nothing but Erika chose a great song yet failed also!

Winner: Sweden

Got Soul But Their Not A Solider Battle
UK: Miss Frank Who's Lovin' You / Sweden: Mariette Hansson - When Tomorrow Comes

Miss Frank are an unusual act. They could/can be amazing! Then they can be ear bleeding! This song for the most is soulful, strong and in keeping with the song. Bum notes a few yes, but it's still pleasant, well until the last freaky eyed girl comes in and sings like she is trying to be funny and mess up the song. She misses out half the letters! Aren't Mariette's dancers hilarious! sleeping, going crazy, then sleeping.. my sort of dance! I was brought up on the Eurythmics so this was a delight! Mariette vocal is lovely and she give great passion to her performance! I would happily buy this cover.
Verdict: Both passionate and powerful, but one pure vocal against a shaky one!

Winner: Sweden

Surprise Loved Performance Battle
UK: Joe McElderry - No Regrets / Sweden: Tove Östman Styrke - Hot N Cold

Firstly Joe has been to the same 'let's cake on the make-up' artist as Lloyd, but what has been discovered is quite good looking popstar! His performance is vocally sound and entertaining, real contender! Think he would have been ideal for a 'Any Dream Will Do!' style show though! Very musical performance. Tove's song is perfect for her! really rock/pop chick. She is the Swedish Diana Vickers if her hand is anything to go by! Reminds me of Diana's 'Call Me' performance. Really hot version though!
Verdict: Both well performed performances and Joe's voice is better, but I would listen to Tove far more and I am hoping for big things from her!

Winner: Sweden

Failed Reinvention Battle
UK: Kandy Rain - Addicted to Love / Sweden: Camilla Håkansson - All night long

Kandy Rain want to be forgotten as strippers and porn stars, but sing Addicted to Love? There clothes would work for a Lady GaGa number, but it all just fails with the club singer backing track and song which you wouldn't ee Girls Aloud dead covering! It is a shame because I think they had a chance of being an amazing girlband. My future legend Camilla failed this week! while trying to be all non-schalger, she turned incredibly boring! If I was at Club Idol I would go get my drinks during this song. Her vocals are better than usual, though very soft maybe a safe move! Her performance once she is at the end of the stage is full scale 80's Meldodifestivalen! If she sings Piccadilly Circus at an stage I think I would actually cry with happiness!
Verdict: Though it pains me to say, Camilla is potential of so much better and has to work harder to maintain her Legendary status. Kandy Rain didn't have a fair chance but did well with what they got!

Winner: UK

Utter Disaster Non-Battle
John and Edward - Rock DJ
John and Edward aren't funny, there not descent pop, there just one big cringefest so until they perform anything of any quality worth mentioning they will not be shown on this site!
Verdict: Unfair to punish the UK for this so neither deduct point or add to Sweden!

Winner: Void

My Favourites Of The Night Battle
UK: Stacey Solomon - The Scientist / Sweden: Erik Grönwall - Leave a Light On

I LOVE Stacey! She has the voice of an angel but the gob of a sketch show character! Nothing about this performance is fake, its pure and beautiful. I not particularly love this song in Coldplay form, Stacey sings this like it is her first single, like it was wrote for her! She nailed it and I really want to hear a full studio version! I love her chat after the songs, it's so cute! Her performance was no fireworks or dancers, just angelic vocals and adorable smiles! Erik has reminded me how much I love this Belinda Song (It is a little bit of a Heaven is a Place on Earth Rip off! Yet amazing)! He owns the stage and works the cameras/dancers incredibly! What an unusual yet perfect song choice! The whole performance shines of Melodifestivalen, but when is that ever a bad thing? I was never a huge Erik fan, but this has placed a massive spotlight on him!
Verdict: They are both incredible performances, and I am sure I will watch them over and over! So it will be a small victory!

Winner: UK

Now to Arlene Phillips with the Final Result:
UK Sweden

Winner: SWEDEN
Maybe the vocals were not the strongest, but overall the Swedes had better song choices and performances! Both shows though were rather disappointing!

Finally we had ex-contestents performing this week!
UK: Alexandra Burke - Bad Boys / Sweden: Darin - Viva La Vida

I can't be sure if Alexandra's vocal is fully live, a cleverly mimed recorded live vocal, or a mix of both! Anyway she storms the stage and has half of London dancing behind her! My fav move is around the 2:27 mark when she does the funky shoulders! The song is addictive and her dancing is top notch, but her face is just dead! Her expressions don't nail it! Darin was previously reviewed here! He performs this effortly and has a pointless/amazing wind machine!
Verdict: Alexandra is amazing but Darin is just pop perfection!

Winner: Sweden

So this weekend (as my post was so late!) Idol is doing Michael Jackson, while X Factor is Diva's! Sounds exciting and hopefully one up on Weak Week 1! Whitney and Cheryl's performances will be ace too hopefully!

SugaJades Video Tragedy!

2009-10-12T20:19:00.010+01:00

You are about to witness one of the most disturbing things you have ever seen... Those of a nervous disposition please look away now! The official Sugababes tribute band 'The SugaJades' as they are now called (well on this blog at least) have released their newest video for their next (s)hit single "About a Girl"!
The title sort of screams to me... "you liked 'About You Now' and you liked the novelty YMCA style song 'Here Come The Girls'... so we've mashed the name an you'll love this!
Unfortunately a big budget, picturesque scenery, and a modern Eurovision goddess produced this....

I like the countdown at the beginning... gives me time to really think through if I want to watch the video again!
Now the video starts... and I think this might seam an extremely embarrassing thing to admit, but the first thing I noticed was that it appears to be the same set as 'S Club 7 - S Club Party'!

Am I right? Am I wrong? Am I sad because I recognised an S Club video set (YES!!)
The bad guys speech is simply cringey, and a much better result could have been produced though mime I believe!
Hold on... the script just gets better.. "You see it yet?" "Not Yet!" "Oh wait.. Is that it right there?" "Yeah that's it!"(End Scene) It's almost Shakespearean!

Look out! someone's in gear for some major chaffing!

Now the plot thickens as the extremely eloquent ladies leave the car... but wait.. could It be??? Yes its Sugababes V2.0!! Here we discover it is actually based on a real life story of Heidi, Mutya and Keisha!

Further on were treated to some more excellent script! It's almost like what you would get if one of those Hitler spoof videos was written by a 3 yr old!
"So...? So...? You want to show it or not? You want to see it? Yes, let's see it! SEE THIS!!!" I am in LOVE with the caps lock use during this gripping piece of drama!

2:27 mark shows some fantastic shot caravan wobbling! It really captures the ruckus inside, by slightly rocking!
Here's some final classic, and actually my favourite, lines...

"Come over here... I will get you" "Come back here... don't do that!!"
The video ultimately distracts from what is a really a mediocre piece of modern Swedish born pop! If you had given this to September or Gathantia they might have ripped it! Instead for me I think the song an video as a whole under writes everything the former band (Sugababes) have done before! They used to sing from the soul, now they flash their knickers to any hip producer that will work with them! Seriously though, watch the video... here the song... and think... If this had been a random girlband debut single with the same video, would anyone give a rats ass? Or would it be one of the many overlooked European acts that never reach the UK shores each year! On this my final point I will be... this track wouldn't have looked out of place on the very disappointing Monrose 'I Am' album (though there is still hope with Monrose, and hopefully with The SugaJades)!

Boy + Girl + Girl + Boy = Europop!

2009-10-10T13:32:00.008+01:00

For the past few days I have had a song stuck in my head!
Completely wedged in and going no where, well until the next chunk of europop comes along!
Here it is....

How ridiculously catchy is that song! I know I am a proud supporter of credible pop, music with substance... but you can't tell me Rigga Ding Dong Song doesn't make you smile and want to be in the sun! Avid europoppers will recognise the song as a Passion Fruit cover! Cherona are a new German Pop group formed through a TV show on German channel Super RTL!

This got me thinking about the many europop foursomes that Germany have had in this formate! Here are my favourites*... prepare for serious cheese! If any of the Spotify links don't work internationally let me know please.

First up we have ATC (A Touch of Class)
Formed in 2000 after meeting while performing in the musical Cats, the members hail from New Zealand, Italy, Australia and England. An eclectic mix of nationalities, the majority having English speaking as their 1st language. Yet their music sounded typically europop a if English was their 2nd language. Their main hit was their debut single, a cover of the Russian song Pesenka...

I't catchy, It's mega European! Simple yet with a touch of class! The video is nonsense perfection, and shows that the kids in Germany were singing in cars long before Girls Aloud!
Other tracks on ATC to check out are: The very Steps-esc Thinking of You and the Alcazar style New York City

Next up we have Se-Side.
This two hit wonder band appeared to be in the ATC mindset with their debut single...

Though the Scalextric is now a Playstation Portable, the concept is the same and the real cars do appear at the end! The blonde guy reminds me of a cheap version of Danny Saucedo, even my favourite line of the song "A dedication, Of my affection" sounds Danny style! Their only other single was Kamboleo, which was created to promote a new roller-coaster at Phantasialand. This video shows some spectacular survival advice that Bear Grylls could only dream of! What do you do if swallowed by a giant snake??? Have a Dance Break! Genius!

3rd act is Banaroo!
They are not my favourites, but have some good points!
Formed in 2005 by the same Super RTL that has just created previously mentioned Cherona! They were formed as the German answer to the band Ch!pz, which I will speak about later.

Aimed at kids their videos and songs were just as playful, but not the best pop around. Their Christmas album Christmas World is worth a listen as it is surprisingly good and is the sheer essence of the festive period!

The 4th foursome is Ch!pz!
Yes they are Dutch and were bigger in the Netherlands than Germany, but they still had German hits and are not good enough in my opinion to have their own post! Watch out for the my favourite section around the 3minute mark.

Their style is typical europop, but with a budget all previously mentioned could only dream of! They could be seen as the Dutch S Club 7, if S Club's TV show was about superheroes not just a band going around the USA and Spain for no apparent reason seeing as they didn't really release music over there!
Ch!pz have a great style and expensive video set up, but I still feel a little empty after listening to the majority of their music!

Final act is Buttons.
One flop wonders in Germany which I discovered when in Spain watching Viva in 2005.
Their song is along the similar lines of Rigga Ding Dong Song with its Spanish vibe and Latin europop beats. This is on Las Ketchup style dance crazy that never caught on!

Hope you enjoyed this trip! If you know of any that I've missed out make sure you add a comment and ill look into it!

*yes A*teens, Abba, Alcazar, Bucks Fizz, Deuce and Vengaboys all fit in this band formation equation.. but they are not made in German, and of a far higher caliber to be classed in here!

Viva Darin!

2009-10-10T00:49:00.004+01:00

HERE IT IS!!!!
The performance of the cover I have been dying for and the net has buzzing about (well my fav blogs Here Here and Here!)
I've waited up late in order to get the glimpse of the fantastic performance so here we go....

W TO THE OW!!!
Okey Okey the vocal is a bit shaky, but overall the style and performance is Swedelicious!
I'm not sure if you would agree but I think the backing track sounds more Danny Saucedo than Darin!
How cute for Darin to perform and release a song for no other reason but to big up the show from which he started! That's loyalty for you kids!
The wind machine of course is equally amaizng, probably due to it's sheer pointlessness!
He kicked Ola's Körslaget kör hands down!
Also check out Future M.I.A. Legend Camilla Håkansson during the contestant line up! Will she stand like an awkward celebrity on a forgein TV show, clapping and nodding like the some of her fellow contestants? No No No, this kidette has class! Shes singing and dancing like a true Schlager Icon!
I kinda hope Darin doesn't do Melodifestivalen (it's OK I'm feeling fine don't worry, I did really say that!). I think, as this performance shows, he's far too current and potentially international for the contest at the moment!
This makes me even more excited for Darin's UK invasion! BRING IT ON!

Think Darin deserves M.I.A. Legend status after this... so watch this space!

M.I.A. Future Legend: Camilla Håkansson

2009-10-08T13:55:00.006+01:00

I'm following the new series of Svenska Idol online and loving every second of it so far! Seriously Sweden make generic talent show formates so relevant and unique.
Though there are some seriously talented singers on the show, there is one future pop starlet who has stole my heart! Camilla Håkansson is the definition of a Schlager lover in human form!
Here is her electrifying performance of My Heart Will Go On...

I know... I know... her presentation of the lyrics was a bit all over the place! My favourite bit is at when she repeats with such punch "True Time"! If you think her Schlager remix was blasphemy then overt your eyes now....

HOW AMAZING!!!! legend legend legend! Alexandra Burke should listen up! wonder if that's what Same Difference would have performed the song like if that had been their winners single??
After this performance she got a right telling off by the judges! Have they not heard of Melodifestivalen? Can they not she that Camilla is setting down an audition for 2010???
What ever happens to her the rest of the series I will be following in great detail!
I will end this post with the fantastic fail she made live on TV!

Follow Idol either via the fabulous http://annkisvenssons.blogg.se/idol/ or searching!
annkisven on Youtube

Aquatic & Diva Themed Post

2009-10-06T21:23:00.007+01:00

hey hey people!
got a few things to discuss and they seam to be linked by that lovely see through stuff... water!
Firstly we've got the pop Princess Agnes Carlsson with her newest addition to the musical perfection that is Dance Pop Love! After the disastrous remix of Big Blue Wall for the German album edition, I was surprised a ballad was added to the album! Even though it sounds a little like shes singing Urine instead of You Rain, the ballad is gorgeous. She has done ballads before with better results, check out original Big Blue Wall, her winner's single Right Her Right Now , the failed melodifestivalen entry Somewhere Down the Road, and my favorite of all the heartbreaking What Do I Do With All This Love

Next up is the brilliant new video by Emilia! Those fellow Swede lovers will recognise her for the immense Your My world from this years Melodifestivalen, which was easily one of my favourites from the show! Other readers may know her from 90's hit Big Big World. Anyway this new disco dancefloor delight will hopefully be her next European smash! The video was filmed at the club I visited in Stockholm. I had the best night out of my life there because it was filled with Schlager! This would rip the dancefloor up im sure!

Hopefully this post has not dampened your day... get it???

MadamImAdam on Facebook

2009-10-02T21:40:00.004+01:00

*EDIT* Page not Group now!

Hey guys been a busy bee sorry about this! my blog will hopefully take off the ground fully soon but for now I have opened a Facebook PAGE!

Become a Fan: MadamImAdamFacebook

Become a Fan, Join then chat! I'm going to hopefully use that more often to just post videos and news stuff that I find online and I love!
Feel free to add your own tunes and enlighten the group with new music!

I have not forgotten the blog don't worry! Thank you for your support so far!

M.I.A. Legend: The Begining of No Angels! Part (-1)

2009-08-06T22:46:00.009+01:00

Ladies and Gentlemen I am back, don’t hold your breath those because A: it’s silly and B: I’m not sure for how long!

I did however think it was about time to dig out the old legend section and blog about my favourite girl band No Angels! Starting at minus one seeing a they haven’t been formed yet in this clip!

They began life on defunked in the UK but going string in Germany, TV show Popstars! There like the German Girls Aloud.. well they started before girls aloud but no two of them look manly enough to be compared to Hear’say!

Lets just watch this clip and enjoy!

0.02: First up Lucy looking a little bit like a crazy drunk singing in a bus station, yes we’ve all seen/been them! Her voice sound like she’s on a vibrating platform, and the woman to the right of her in blue is clearly too old for a girlgroup! Nice to see Dame Shirley Clamp’s auditioning wearing a stripy top!

Next up Vanessa (Vany). Either she need the toilet bad or she’s actually a wind-up toy. Why are they filming the back of her head? Is that wear her cogs are?

This clip of Sandy makes me laugh so so much! I don’t know if it’s her dragged through a hedge look, the fact she only semi knows what she’s singing yet appears very emotional, or her brilliant hand gestures/sign language.

Here’s my girl.. Nadja! I love this ladies voice! The hand on hip makes her look a little like she’s telling the judges off! Was that Jordan (Katie Price) sitting behind her?

Wow.. here goes the Hippy Librarian looking Jessica. The pretending to be asleep act makes the “For youuuuu” bit even scarier! Demon eyes!

2:13: Watching this clip makes me remember how much I loved Popstars. How they believed getting people to scream over a random old track that wouldn’t last a day in the top 40 would make a great testing ground for a new pop act! Someone shut Jessica up! Vany looks bored as hell and Lucy does her usual ‘crazy’ faces while dressed as half sheep half boy!

2.55: There not trying to be the new Spice Girls honest!

3:15: what the hell is Nadja eating? Is that a whole mango? Who chomps mangos? She’s quite thirsty I would guess!

3:48: Here comes the group dance! Some of the most hilarious Popstars moment occur here!

4:36: Someone needs a new song!

5:00: Cheer Up love!

5:09: Yes she really did make the band! Love the moves though!

6:25: That is the face of “Oh not that song again!” or maybe she’s still trying to get over Jessica!

6:54: Now she’s heard herself! Tears a plenty!

Well the bad were formed and I’ll teach you all about them in the coming blogs!

The Best Of The Rest Of The Melodifest: Jennifer vs Maja

2009-03-06T23:33:00.002Z

Finally we have this tough old battle! Just so were clear the songs I have left out have been so on purpose because not even I want to sit through them again!

This time its a Too-Cool-For-School OFF!!!

First in the 'don't have a clue what colour her top is' corner we have
Jennifer Brown - Never Been Here Before

First off I'm loving the stage set up! Its retro hotness! The band is classy touch too! The JB at the back on the screen though is a bit much... its not really "Oh 'JB', yeah that stands for Jennifer Brown!"
Why is she wearing gloves made from bin bags? They are horrid!
39secs: Award from the worlds worst crowd sway goes to...
I like the back beat.. really gets me excited about what the chorus might bring!!
52 secs: Shes channeling a bit of old school Eurovision Sandie Shaw there with her impression of a bouncing puppet! Camera cant even keep up.
Pretty chorus, sounds bit off live but on mp3 songs smooth!
Yet more bouncing through singing, feeling a little sea sick. Get a grip woman!

Next up in the white & black corner Maja Gullstrand - Här för mig själv

I wonder if she's wearing an ear piece? If so they've disguised the usually visible black wire well!
Outfit a mix of old school Kylie mixed with 90's barbie, I'm a fan!
17secs: Usual way to start a song by counting yourself down then letting one rip! Made her smile though. Bell tink dance move though wins me back over!
32secs: Look of death! How Dare She walk in front of her!
It looks so beneath her there after, but still slick little walking dance round sequence!
49 secs: Sack her now! How Dare She yawn in front of her!
Loving the chorus, dance and all! Shes so pretty! Roll heads in time guys!
1m 38s: so magical, bravo choreographer!
1m 52s: They all get round to support her, least they're trying to be nice! He holds her lady lumps... then looks at his hand like 'what have I done?' How Dare He!
2m 5s: Bunch of bitches.. shes not that heavy! While her backs turned they over act the back strain from the support move!
Then they start to leave her after the chorus... are they not getting paid for this?
3m 5s: deserves him right for being so nasty, shame she missed though!

Result: All in all song wise hard to compare! both when played as often as I they have been on my mp3 player, start to grow a lot more on me! But seeing as Maja is at least on tune and has the most amazing 90's Kylie dress up outfit on ever, she wins! Amazing dance routine, shame the dancers are so vile to her! She just ahead of her time seeing as there all decked out in 70's gear!

The Best Of The Rest Of The Melodifest: Marie vs Nina

2009-03-06T22:39:00.004Z

Ting Ting... Second round people!

This time its a.... Saints & Sinners OFF!!!

In the white saintly corner Marie Serneholt - Disconnect Me

Someone should really tell her which way the stage is! She has rain at the back and fire looking smoke at the front.. how confusing! Hope that dress is flame proof, though she looks its been made from a swan.
How Holly Valance is this.. how amazing would she be at this!
47 secs.. just pause for sheer hilarity of the gorgeous swashed head back look!
For a girl who was in the A*teens her chorus routine is very poor! She can bust a move, but not tonight!
1m 2secs: Spoke to soon.. amazing move, well actually not by her though so I'm still right!
1m 39secs: Oh no no no! do not cheer one your own song bid way and pretend it wasn't you!
After slow down-lights off moment the 'yeahs' are painful!
2m 50s: I do like a good old clap-a-long!
This works amazing on mp3, sounds hot and fresh! Live its poor, and I keep looking at her because shes stunning and in white, though if you just watch the dancers.. its so much better!

In the Black leather-bound corner Nina Söderquist - Tick Tock

First song to be performed this year, I aw a bit of 'West End Star' so I know this girl has the power of voice. And being in Spamalot she has stage presence, but can she do MF?
OOOOOOOOooooooh Fire!
Least she knows which way to face! "you have been chained to me" I feel as if I will be punished if I disagree! In the name of all that's Swedish I accept! She has crazy eyes.
43 secs: I have a feeling all the men started long haired like the backing singers, but the dancers got to close and she shaved it off, no wonder the singers are hiding in the corner!
54 secs: Wow the stage went crazy! that one second ha more bang in it than all of Marie's! I love the clocks!
1m 24 secs: Drunken aunt at wedding move if ever Ive seen one!
1m 35s: Calm down there Mr stray dancer hand! Love that sequence but he does get a bit too personal!
1m 46s: Haven't mentioned yet how much I love the "very soul of YOOOOU" bit! Love Swedish
2m 35s: Just noticed where the pieces of the rips from Marie's dancers outfits came from! Points off for nasty dancer tactics!
3m 02s: How well timed! "I will explode" and two big blasts come out of her head!
End deserved some big old flames at the front! I know stage is covered in them, but the fronts more dramatic!

Result: This may upset a lot of people but Nina is hands down winner for me! I'm so annoyed she didn't get further, but it was a tough week! She owned the stage unlike Marie I think, and left me spellbound!
Both songs Mp3 wise are magnificent, but Nina's just keeps on building and running along!
Next year either A*teens reunion for MF, or Marie could turn back time and take up the duet offer Agnes gave her seeing as she went straight to the final!
random high notes!

The Best Of The Rest Of The Melodifest: Susanne vs Shirley

2009-03-06T20:47:00.008Z

Yo peeps! As you may have noticed I've been giving attention mostly to the songs which have sunk at the Melodifestivalen! The gone but not forgotten songs of yesteryear (well yestermonth!)
This is because I don't wanna repeat myself too much!
As the last of the heats, the second chance round, is on tomorrow night, I thought Id do a round up of those songs which didn't make it but were amazing, yet not enough to make a single post about!
Almost like the Christmas scraps you have after your turkey dinner!

First up... Were having a Ballad-OFF!!!

In the blue corner we have Susanne Alfvengren - Du är älskad där du går

Just pause this bout 16 seconds in.. puzzled me for ages last week as to why she was wearing a handbag?
A nice beaded one, but a plain frock and a handbag? She looks a little high to be honest!
Its kinda creepy being told a story with such none blinking eyes straight at you! Actually that's really creepy, she really doesn't blink much! Its a familiar, but lovingly sang song by someone who looks like they got lost on the way to a Gala dinner and ended up on stage!
3min 4secs: is a very scary moment when her staring face sweeps in out of nowhere, and is watched by herself! Man I'm creeped!

And in the.. em... eh.... other blue corner we have Shirley Clamp - Med hjärtat fyllt av ljus

Dear of dear Dame Shirley of Clamp! wearing Susannes dress, fitted and minus the handbag! I was hoping to be blown away in the first 2 seconds like her previous songs... but nope!
Seriously whats happening in the green room, turn the volume off and watch the whole thing.. shes drunk as a skunk! She never moves on stand either, clear sign of being wasted!
This song is has a hot remix and sounds good as an mp3, just bland in Shirley and MF standards.
2ms 11secs: omg she has such Man hands!
2m 12sec that's the pointing finger of "you just shut it or ill hit you one with my blinging knuckle duster"... I'm scared to say more!
2m 30s: key change kicks in... wind machine makes her dress look like shes got a swim suit under.. not nice look!
2m 55s: She sings "Med hjärtat fyllt Up Yooooours" in broad Scottish! Shes one tough cookie!

Result: I fear for Susanne life by battling them off, she thought she was heading to a slap up meal (planning of coarse to take some home in her handbag, classy girl!). The sheer disappointment of Dame Shirley's song make me have to declare Susanne the winner! Even though Susanne's eyes will haunt me for the rest of my life!

She's So Human... Lady Sovereign

2009-03-04T11:53:00.004Z

Shes back guys! the funkiest girl rapper is back with a new album and this hot new single! yeah 'got you dancing' was out before, but it really didn't hook me!
This one on the other hand has be cranking up the volume and dancing like a loon!
Her last album was funky in itself, been played many a time on my mp3 player!
I'm expecting high things from her new album after this track.
Not sure bout her new style though... looks a bit 'jump on the Skins bandwagon'!
Also the "doesn't it feel much betta" bit goes on a bit too long for my liking (man I'm picky!)
Anyway ignoring those factors.. im wanted at least top 5 for this ditty form the city!

He Talks Sense... Cookies = Liking

2009-03-03T17:10:00.004Z

Though i find it seriously freaky that in today society children are world wide images from day dot.. for example baby photos on facebook etc, youtube kids are funny!
Some people film there kids and its actually juts pointless "you'll never get back that minute of your life stuff" in the hope they become the next youtube star. However that video i find mega funny just because he trys so hard to justify himself!

Anne and Maria can Kill Me Tenderly with a song!

2009-03-01T12:30:00.002Z

Every week Melodifestivalen manages to take my breath away and make me feel deeper in love with the show and Sweden!
The non-qualifying Melodifestivalen hotness of this week is this one by Anna & Maria!

How magnificent! Its epic to every degree!
The girls in boxes, though reminiscent of Ukraine last year (Maria must have taken notes from the final) they fit straight into the bond theme, though maybe gold would be more hot! There wigs are horrendous though, even though you can only see there silhouettes!
Was it just me or at the 30 second mark when u first see Maria my first reactions was “oh hello you two!”? Her boobs are flaunted to an inch of their life, once again how Bond-like!
Then at 35s... it looks like my dream performance that will never be on Stars In Your Eyes! Head to toe Anna has been cloned into Hero star Charlotte from last year... well apart from the scary cat like face and grey starting complexion.

Well at least Anna sowed the bottom back together!
There’s been a lot of two cameras on screen action this MF, they must have upped the staff! When they finally meet the “baby, Baby” is sweeping and gracefully, but the dance moves are a bit like they’ve wet themselves! Actually maybe they have as from then on the chorus has that sort of feel to it! The switching of weight on legs is a tell-tell sign!
2m 19s has to be the weirdest dance move ever! She throws something, and then strokes her cleavage! It’s bizarre! But the “while you can” note arrangement wins me back over... and finally we get some gold in the background!
Could have done with fireworks at the end I think! This would have at least guaranteed a 12 from Norway! I love it and ill play it on repeat... but saying that it’s still no “Hold On Be Strong”!!

Ps. I do not condone music piracy on this blog... but http://poppostergirl.blogspot.com has some amazing tracks for you MF lovers!

Velvet: Take A Bow, She Is The Queen!

2009-02-23T22:50:00.003Z

Took me ages to finally get to see the Melodifestivalen performances this week!
I usually download the program online, but some silly person put it up in a strange format so it didn't play, an nobody has uploaded anything else!
So this time I had to download individual performances!

Anyway my highlight this week was the magnificent performance by Dance/Pop supreme Velvet!

How magnificent! It's camp as the very queen she i declaring herself as!
The Disney style background at the beginning should be my wallpaper, and I will wear my Amy Diamond stolen jacket in front of it!
The start is of course very reminiscent of previous Dutch Eurovision entry

However while Linda made her dancers smell her feet by having them so low down, Velvet had a regal staircase and enough living bigger living quarters then I expect most Buckingham Palace staff get!
The fiercest moment in the routine tho is at the 1.03 mark, Ive watched over and over, where she turns! Its sharp and to the beat, so so hot!
The 2.00 mark dance break isn't as kick ass as usual dance breaks, but the charming nature fits with the performance and is highly entertaining. Kinda Steps "Say You'll Be Mine" reminiscent, but with a stronger EuroBeat!
To get back in the dress at the end is certainly amazing, she is in control and looking down on you biatches!
It strongly believe that Queen Elizabeth should perform this on Red Nose Day as the theme is "Do Something Funny"! What would be more funny than her belting this out from the skirt opening and her hundred corgis and staff running out from under?
I'm not surprised this didn't get through, though I'm disappointed! Velvet is a class act and I will investigate her further on the blog!

M.I.A. Legend: Call It Love, If You Want.. I Call Them Deuce!

2009-02-20T22:02:00.012Z

Ok guys here is the first legend I want to discuss on this blog!

Deuce were (well should I say are because they live on in many hearts?) a boy/girl band from the 90's! As you can see from the photo, their style was subtle :P!
There music is sheer pop, they took on pop in fantastic form, producing song with substance, style and class!

There single 'I Need You' shown above was the first single I ever bought, and there album was my first too! (Lets just hope I get famous so I can answer that if anyone asks!)

As you will soon be aware, I'm a Eurovision addict.. so when they tried to take part to represent UK this would have been a fantastic moment in Eurovision history, but they were bet by worst UK act ever! Wikipedia it because I cant even mention there names!!
Though there videos were classics, their performances were the bomb!

So what happened to them? Truthfully I don't really have a clue! Firstly the lady whos voice sounded like she had balls of steal, Kelly (Looking hot in neon over there) left and was replaced by a clone of her, who mimed to her voice for a bit!
Then they released the snoozefest of 'No Surrender' (Which I've posted in the only bearable version I know!). Being a kid at the time, this failed to be caught on my radar, and it was not until my sisters came home from the Smash Hits Tour and told me Kelly had clone girl instead of her that I knew the end was near!
There album is a must have, don't know where to buy it now, but its worth the hunt! Hit after hit on it, well part from some misses i.e. 'Kiss It', pop masterpieces and ballads, must have album!
I will be first in line for their reunion, that better happen soon! Or maybe I'll just wait and form a tribute band!

Thats Deuce in a nutshell! I'll probably break them down a little more in different posts.. just depends where my head wonders!

Question Of The Day

2009-02-18T10:38:00.006Z

What does Lyndsey Lohan do for a living now?

We all know Andy Warhol said "In the future everyone will be a publicity seeking lesbian for fifteen minutes"

How right he was!

Shining Like an Amy Diamond

2009-02-16T17:15:00.009Z

Melodifestivalen was on Sat once again! And the song which has surprisingly been playing on repeat on my PC since is "It's My Life" by Amy Diamond!
I say surprised as it was not the strongest of the night, but seriously I'm addicted!

Firstly there is the crazy crazy Eurovisionly perfect lyrics...
"Tell the Boys that.. It's My Life" that's the line that hooked me! Why tell the boys? Which boys?

"When I Walk The Night": following on from the previous line are we to take that shes talking about being a lady of the night? These boys were to tell are clients? Not really a job for a 16 yrold!

"I Want You With Prevision" not sure if I keep hearing this wrong.. but what the hell does that mean? prevision as in planning in advance? if so then why tell them is she does what she feels like? a song about living your life to the full, with the safety catch on of coarse!

Also the tunes familiarity had been bugging me every time, till it struck me today!

Maybe it's not so obvious to most people, but it is what I was thinkin!

That any better?

What ever confusion has occurred though is swept away by the sheer amazingness of the tune, as well as the fantastic shiny glitter robe she had at the beginning of her performance, which I plan to make one of as it might keep the damn cold out!

Coming Soon....

2008-12-13T14:32:00.001Z

Hey there kidos and kidettes!
You have stumbled across a very new blog on the scene, so new in fact theres almost nothing here!
However don't be put off by that!
Come the New Year this blog will be producing everything you need to know about music, TV, the internet, fellow bloggers, and all those other lil things in between!
Please bookmark me as hopefully i'll entertain you!

ps..... feel free to cover my pages with comments!! this blog is not a living one without the input of others!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 9

2008-12-09T08:45:00.000Z

Day Nine, feeling festive and fine!
I really am enjoying this Christmas countdown and all the merriment that comes with it!
You liked the songs so far? Add a comment if you have any suggestions!

I really heart this song! It is one of the most overlooked Christmas tracks, and even though it's new it has not got the airplay it deserves!
It is Fast Food Rockers - I Love Christmas, and it does what it says on the tin!
Its a merry and extremely camp festive experience! There is a distinct 80's Xmas tune vibe, channelling Last Christmas by Wham!
Fast Food Rockers were not on my "I hope they last" list when around, but this track is an exception to the cheesy mess they had out before!
I do love the 2m 15s "sweet harmony" bit.. its these little gems that make me happily ignore the cheap "Santa's sack" line.
I do love christmas, and I do love this track!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 8

2008-12-07T18:34:00.000Z

Another day, another festive number!
Cheery, Chirpy Christmas number wrapped up today for you!

Popstars - Just 4 Girls- I Believe in Christmas

Today brings maybe the longest artist/song title that you will find in the Xmas Advent! It comes from the German Popstars contestants of 2008!
Though Popstars may have died in the UK after the launch of Girls Aloud and failure of One True Voice, Germany held strong and is one of the few countries to have continuously ran the show since it first launched No Angels.
Last years show created the good, but not amazing Queensberry, who are now fighting to keep their contract. Before the band was completed the contestants released this festive ditty which though not being a major Xmas classic, it hits the yule time spot!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 7

2008-12-07T17:45:00.000Z

Back on track with this little festive number!
It may be sunny down under, but they still make Christmas tracks!

Young Divas - Dear Santa (Bring Me A Man This Christmas)
Were going where the sun is up and the temperature is hot for today's track!
Yes the present is wrapped in Australia's flag!
Young Divas are an amazing foursome from Australia made up of former Australian Idol contestants. Their albums are the most played on my mp3 player, even though there made up of mostly 80's covers. They really should get M.I.A. Legendary status soon!
This track though is full scale festive, and makes me wanna jump on a sleigh and rush around in the snow!
Apologies for the quite boring video to accompany this track! It's all I could find though!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 6

2008-12-06T10:00:00.000Z

Day 6 and we have an other cracker for you!
This time from the mighty U.S. of A.!
I think I might put up my Christmas tree tonight as I don't want to leave it too late!

I sort of drop a clue in the previous section :p today's song is Lady GaGa - Christmas tree feat Space Cowboy.
After Lady GaGa's taking over of the world she pushed out this Xmas ditty! Her remaster of Hark the Herald!
It's her usual hard beats mixed with filth, but with a handful of jingle and bucket load of Ho Ho Ho!
I think she could do a better Christmas song, and I'm sure she will in time, but I do like giving this track a spin.
The video I chose to complement the track was my favourite of the bizarre Sims 2 made videos! I love the craziness that comes out of Sims made music vids!
Some inspired dance moves and the miming is better than the X factor contestants group songs!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 5

2008-12-05T09:00:00.000Z

That time again! Only 20 day left till St Nic, or till you find out my fav Christmas track, whichever excites you more :P!
Were going favourite country outside Scotland now... SWEDEN!
Click on through to see which one!!

I'm surprised it's taken me 5 days to have a fully Swedish post, day one did have a Swede but was shared with an Aussie!
Today I bring you Måns Zelmerlöw & Agnes Carlsson - All I Want For Christmas!
This is a beautiful, winter warmer version of the Mariah classic.
It brings two of my favourite Svenska stars together! One Idol winner, Agnes, and one Idol finalist, Måns.
There is something a little funny sounding about all of Måns lines! He seams to get the funniest ones to sing in a serious tone!
The song was produced for the department store MQ's Xmas promotions. Maybe we could team Alexandra Burke and Lemar for M&S??? Actually that would be AMAZING!

Here is the beautiful Moulin Rouge MQ themed advert which accompanied the song!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 4

2008-12-04T17:44:00.000Z

How time flies when your feeling festive! It's day number 4 and I'm bringing you a track that's been growing on me like mistletoe over the past few days!
Click on to find out what it is!

Aqua came back from pop wilderness in 2007 and now are bringing us their Christmas number Spin Me A Christmas!
After Back to the 80's being in my eyes somewhat underwhelming for an Aqua come back, this track does capture some of their 90's/00's bubblegum sound without sounding too forced!
It does seam a shame though after the 'better-with-video-than-without' My Mamma Said which showed Aqua in a Take That grown up but not forgotten your roots sort of way.
I'll judge Aqua - Spin Me A Christmas alone though, and after the first listen I was a bit uninspired by it, but now I do love it.
AquaScope makes a welcome return, and the over the top video does match the cheesy 80's vibe Xmas tune. I do love the Gameboy style bleeps throughout!
I'm not sure how it will do in the charts, but it will be played in my household this festive season for sure!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 3

2008-12-03T20:24:00.000Z

Hope your having a festive time so far!
I was trying to be all high-tech and schedule my blog posts, but it went wrong so your getting day 2 and 3 at the same time! I am so kind to you!

You may also notice the presents will be wrapped in the flag of the artist country! Day 1 was a mixed bag so forget about that one!

Click on to find out what lies in the festive box!

Following on from the chilled Christmas song from Day 2 we have Sugababes - New Year
Ignoring the the title, this is a Christmas track. Though 9 years old, which is frightening, the track still sounds modern and soulful.
It's not all jingle and bells, but still have a December chill in it, which reminds me of the festive time!
After all the SugaJades fiasco this year, it's lovely to be reminded of the beautifully simple music the Sugababes used to produce!

A none Xmas song, but has the same December chill vibe along the lines of this song, is Liberty X - Holding on For You! I love this song, and it really does take me back when I hear it. It just makes me want to wrap myself in a warm duvet. The 2m50s stop kills me every time, so hot haha!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 2

2008-12-02T19:49:00.000Z

Day two and another cracking Christmas track hiding within the wrapped present!

Click on through to find out which it is!

Sarah Connor - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Today I bring you the German pop icon Sarah Connor taking on the classic Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!
This track is a truly beautiful number. Its subtle, yet powerful, and bursting to the brim with the message of love!
Even though this style of singing the song became big after Christina Aguilera belted it out, I prefer this version as she sings it with all the beauty, yet not overdoing it which I think Xtina possibly does!
The rest of Sarah Connor's Christmas album Christmas In My Heart never really clicked with me. It has some great tracks on it, but not a festive favourite of mine!

Madam's Xmas Advent 2009 - Day 1

2008-12-01T18:01:00.000Z

Hello boys and girls! I have been boycotting Christmas this year so far as it started far too early! Tesco wished me Merry Christmas on TV before I even had time to say goodbye to October!
As it is the 1st of December I can officially celebrate the run up to Christmas without feeling silly for it not even being the festive month!

Depending of course on how busy I am extra, my plan is to have an advent of Christmas music from around the world! Some well known tracks, to amazing but uncommon ones. From fabulous covers, to brand new 2009 tracks!

So get those chestnuts on the open fire, and click to see what today's track is hiding within the rest of the post!

Well as it's day number 1.. and I have so much pent up Christmas excitement within me! You have found two presents from unwrapping box number 1!

As it has been freezing all day today I thought I would try and warm you all up twice as fast with double the tracks!

First up is Gabriella Cilmi - Warm This Winter

Released last year this track has already become a firm fav of mine. It's a cover that kept all the charm and warmth of the original without sounding like its trying too hard! Gabriella's voice sits perfectly with the vintage vibe, and this track made me forgive her for the irritating Winehouse wannabe Sweet About Me!

Following on with the warming vibe we have Magnus Carlsson - It May Be Winter Outside

I would have to rate this song higher than Miss Cilmi's though!
It's a fantastic 'grab-a-cup-of-coco' song and is better than a hot water bottle to snuggle into!
Is cheesy and camp but a perfect cover for Magnus's smooth charming voice!
The jingle bells are also immense!
Sweden does make amazing Christmas tracks... and you will hear the rest here I'm sure!