Monday, 19 November 2012
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
Event: TRM @ The Lovely Job
A very strong line up comes with the first 2012 edition of The Lovely Job. Stalwarts Tone Puppets are returning for their first gig of what has already been an eventful year for them having released their latest single 'Late Nights' (below), which was chosen to be featured on a compilation by none other than Acid Jazz recordings. In edition to this you can also catch the boys performing a session on BBC Radio Merseyside this Sunday (26/02) from 8PM you can tune in by clicking this link.
Late Nights by Tone Puppets
Two other acts I am very excited about having down are the crowd pleasing electronic live act Killaflaw who played for us in September and tore the Zanzibar to pieces giving us a good old rave up. It has been a big year for them so far to this year with regular plays on BBC 6 Music and a main stage spot at this summer's Glade festival already in the bag. Kicking the night off we have the Liverpool Big Band, a jazz/swing act that consists of over 30 members. I am very much looking forward to sampling their wares and well, quite frankly seeing if they all fit on the stage!
Also joining us on stage at The Zanzibar will be LIPA's Ben Nokes, The 10B's return after a sterling performance in September and we also have the acoustically driven 53's on what is set to begin another year of Lovely Jobs in style.
I of course will be there to tie the evening together, for those wondering what to expect musically from me there will a mixture of well known classic tracks spanning the years and the genres in addition I will as ever be pushing some up front music that I have been feeling lately, for an inkling check out my Best of 2011 features. As Killaflaw are playing the interlude prior to them will allow me to flex my dance music muscles a bit. I hope to see many of you there :)
The Lovely Job
Friday March 2nd 2012
The Zanzibar, Seel Street, Liverpool.
£5 on the door.
Note for reduced entry guestlist Tweet me @therealmikael or simply comment on this blog post with your name and how many people will be in your party.
TRM Recommends: Jan/Feb Suggested Listening
After the lull of January I have decided to come back to blogging with a new feature, a bi-monthly look at what I have been listening to. I will try to keep it current i.e. things released in the period cited in the post title, but that will not always be the case depending on the quality of releases in those months. So enough explaining, time for the recommendations!
The Album
First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar
Lets start this one with a bit of musical algebra:
Joni Mitchell + Willie Nelson x Warpaint = First Aid Kit
I would describe First Aid Kit as a modern folk band, however after being brought up around country and western thanks to my Grandad's love of it, I can definitely hear elements of that genre in this LP.
In the first track, of the same title as the LP it is almost unbelievable that this is a Swedish group as the vocals sound like they are fully fledged southern Americans. The second track on the album 'Emmylou' is a story of love, one of the more uplifting and less melancholic tracks that feature, Pitchfork cite this as the stand out track of 'The Lion's Roar', however for me it is very much a case of save the best till last. The finale sees the sisters joined by a male voice (Conor Oberst) for 'King of the World' which is quite an uptempo track complete with trumpets and accordion, sees the girls and Oberst finish the song singing in perfect harmony, leaving you sad that the album is only eleven tracks long. A solid 8/10 album if ever there was one.
If you like this check out Warpaint's debut EP Exquisite Corpse.
The Single
M.I.A. - Bad Girls
If there was a category for video of Jan/Feb I would be handing it to M.I.A. too, in this her first single from her fourth album which is expected to drop this summer she (with the help of Danja on production) takes to the popular around 140bpm territory that has delivered the goods for Jay-Z and Kanye West on Niggas in Paris and Chris Brown ft. Busta Rhymes (Look At Me Now) in recent times. It is more of a return to her Diplo produced roots as opposed to the majority of her previous - and rather disappointing - album 'MAYA' dancefloor friendly beats and a catchy hook. A thorough return to form.
The Mix
The Wonderful World of Roses Gabor
Roses Gabor delivered the stand out track on my favourite Dance album of 2011 Pharaohs for SBTRKT's self titled long player and also worked with Redlight on the club smash Luvsick to devastating effect. Both of these tracks feature on this mixtape, which is extremely well mixed by Martelo. After the initial introductions Roses comes in with her heavenly voice over Mac Band's 80s track Roses Are Red, before Dizzee Rascal's Fix Up Look Sharp is thrown into the blender for her to deliver the goods over. The mixtape works to this nature for the full 45 minutes, Roses voice working in perfect harmony with Martelo's blends. Other highlights include Roses' vocals over the euphoric almost trance like riffs of Hudson Mohawke and when Roses is joined by Kaigama for the grimey See Me Inna. After hearing this I am eagerly anticipating hearing more of Roses' work, with the amount of UK music alumni popping up on this mixtape to offer their accreditations; Kano and Dizzee to name just two it certainly gives credence to a few potentially tasty collaborations in the future!
The Remix Amy Winehouse - Rehab (reggae version) by bubureggaesta
Amy Winehouse - Rehab (Federico Regesta Reggae Remix)
A fun remix to end the feature, some people may not be into this but it certainly raised a smile when I heard it and I am sure I will give it a play at The Lovely Job one night this year.
I hope you enjoy my recommendations, let me know what you think over on Twitter @therealmikael and if you would like to hear any of these tracks with a beer in your hand and either side of some good quality live music I will be sure to play some of them at The Lovely Job @ The Zanzibar, Liverpool on March 2nd.
First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar
Lets start this one with a bit of musical algebra:
I would describe First Aid Kit as a modern folk band, however after being brought up around country and western thanks to my Grandad's love of it, I can definitely hear elements of that genre in this LP.
In the first track, of the same title as the LP it is almost unbelievable that this is a Swedish group as the vocals sound like they are fully fledged southern Americans. The second track on the album 'Emmylou' is a story of love, one of the more uplifting and less melancholic tracks that feature, Pitchfork cite this as the stand out track of 'The Lion's Roar', however for me it is very much a case of save the best till last. The finale sees the sisters joined by a male voice (Conor Oberst) for 'King of the World' which is quite an uptempo track complete with trumpets and accordion, sees the girls and Oberst finish the song singing in perfect harmony, leaving you sad that the album is only eleven tracks long. A solid 8/10 album if ever there was one.
If you like this check out Warpaint's debut EP Exquisite Corpse.
M.I.A. - Bad Girls
If there was a category for video of Jan/Feb I would be handing it to M.I.A. too, in this her first single from her fourth album which is expected to drop this summer she (with the help of Danja on production) takes to the popular around 140bpm territory that has delivered the goods for Jay-Z and Kanye West on Niggas in Paris and Chris Brown ft. Busta Rhymes (Look At Me Now) in recent times. It is more of a return to her Diplo produced roots as opposed to the majority of her previous - and rather disappointing - album 'MAYA' dancefloor friendly beats and a catchy hook. A thorough return to form.
The Wonderful World of Roses Gabor
Roses Gabor delivered the stand out track on my favourite Dance album of 2011 Pharaohs for SBTRKT's self titled long player and also worked with Redlight on the club smash Luvsick to devastating effect. Both of these tracks feature on this mixtape, which is extremely well mixed by Martelo. After the initial introductions Roses comes in with her heavenly voice over Mac Band's 80s track Roses Are Red, before Dizzee Rascal's Fix Up Look Sharp is thrown into the blender for her to deliver the goods over. The mixtape works to this nature for the full 45 minutes, Roses voice working in perfect harmony with Martelo's blends. Other highlights include Roses' vocals over the euphoric almost trance like riffs of Hudson Mohawke and when Roses is joined by Kaigama for the grimey See Me Inna. After hearing this I am eagerly anticipating hearing more of Roses' work, with the amount of UK music alumni popping up on this mixtape to offer their accreditations; Kano and Dizzee to name just two it certainly gives credence to a few potentially tasty collaborations in the future!
Amy Winehouse - Rehab (Federico Regesta Reggae Remix)
A fun remix to end the feature, some people may not be into this but it certainly raised a smile when I heard it and I am sure I will give it a play at The Lovely Job one night this year.
I hope you enjoy my recommendations, let me know what you think over on Twitter @therealmikael and if you would like to hear any of these tracks with a beer in your hand and either side of some good quality live music I will be sure to play some of them at The Lovely Job @ The Zanzibar, Liverpool on March 2nd.
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Mix: The Real Mikaél - UK Garage Classics Vol. 2
Happy new year everyone. Hope you all had a good festive period. I spent a lot of my festive period perusing Discogs and stocking up on a variety of UK Garage anthems. I have mixed a follow up to my Selection of Old School Garage Mix which is available to stream and download below.
The Real Mikaél - UK Garage Classics Vol 2 by therealmikael
Tracklist:
Santos - Camels (DJ Zinc remix)
Dru Hill - How Deep is Your Love (Groove Chronicles remix)
Blaque Ivory - I Do (Phururistix remix)
Sia - I Drink to Get Drunk (Dub)
Beatfreaks - Destiny
So Solid Crew - Oh No (DJ Oxide instrumental)
The Streets - Lets Push Things Forward (Zed Bias remix)
All Saints - Booty Call (Club Asylum Skank Vocal)
MJ Cole - Sincere (Dub)
If you enjoyed this mix please check out my previous offering, MJ Cole's year 2000 essential mix and Zed Bias recently recorded an epic 45 minute classic garage mix which can be found over on my friend and fellow UKG fanatic General Jimmy's blog.
Santos - Camels (DJ Zinc remix)
Dru Hill - How Deep is Your Love (Groove Chronicles remix)
Blaque Ivory - I Do (Phururistix remix)
Sia - I Drink to Get Drunk (Dub)
Beatfreaks - Destiny
So Solid Crew - Oh No (DJ Oxide instrumental)
The Streets - Lets Push Things Forward (Zed Bias remix)
All Saints - Booty Call (Club Asylum Skank Vocal)
MJ Cole - Sincere (Dub)
If you enjoyed this mix please check out my previous offering, MJ Cole's year 2000 essential mix and Zed Bias recently recorded an epic 45 minute classic garage mix which can be found over on my friend and fellow UKG fanatic General Jimmy's blog.
Monday, 19 December 2011
Top 10 Tracks of 2011
It's been a brilliant year for music as already outlined in the Top 10 Albums of 2011 feature. There were some artists who really impressed this year without making it on to that list, there were also ovbiously some amazing tracks featured on the albums of that list. So this short feature is to pay homage to some of the tracks that have racked up the most plays on my iTunes, iPhone and in my DJ sets during the year. Though it is ranked, not a great deal of significance should be taken from the position all tunes are in here on merit and they are all incredibly high quality.
Note: Tracks that were included in the recent 'Dancefloor Tracks of 2011' feature haven't been considered for this for the sake of avoiding repetition.
10. Metronomy - The Bay
9. SBTRKT ft. Little Dragon - Wildfire (Drake remix)
8. Battles ft. Matias Aguayo - Ice Cream
7. Little Dragon - Ritual Union
6. Chase & Status ft. Delilah - Time
5. Rustie - Ultra Thizz
4. Adele - Rolling in the Deep (Jamie XX Shuffle)
3. Jessie Ware & Sampha - Valentine
2. Jamie Woon - Lady Luck
1. James Blake - The Wilhelm Scream
Note: Tracks that were included in the recent 'Dancefloor Tracks of 2011' feature haven't been considered for this for the sake of avoiding repetition.
10. Metronomy - The Bay
9. SBTRKT ft. Little Dragon - Wildfire (Drake remix)
8. Battles ft. Matias Aguayo - Ice Cream
7. Little Dragon - Ritual Union
6. Chase & Status ft. Delilah - Time
5. Rustie - Ultra Thizz
4. Adele - Rolling in the Deep (Jamie XX Shuffle)
3. Jessie Ware & Sampha - Valentine
2. Jamie Woon - Lady Luck
1. James Blake - The Wilhelm Scream
Wednesday, 14 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: Summary
2011 has been an incredibly strong year musically. It has also saw a major shift in the way I consume music having spent the majority of my adult life preferring to visit clubs and allow DJs to shape my night. I grew disillusioned to an extent with club nights and DJs in favour of catching live acts and this has reflected on the albums I have listened to. The majority of albums I have heard this year I have actually managed to catch the artist live.
There have been some good albums that could quite feasible made the list Rustie's Glass Swords and Sepalcure's self titled album both suffered from being released late in the year the same applies to Drake's Take Care which for what it's worth was probably the best hip hop album released this year especially after the disappointment of Watch The Throne by Jay-Z and Kanye West. There were other highlights Battles and Wu Lyf both released albums that were more destined for live performance than home listening and both delivered scintillating live performances at the Kazimier. The list of albums I enjoyed is vast Metronomy delivered a great indie pop record, Nicolas Jaar a lovely LP of electronica, Aloe Blacc's LP oozed soul and Balam Acab some haunting future bass music. However, none of the aforementioned albums moved me as much as the below list.
The Real Mikaél's Albums of 2011
10. VA - Fabriclive 57 (Mixed by Jackmaster)
9. Modeselektor - Monkeytown
8. LV & Joshua Idehen - Routes
7. Jamie XX & Gil Scott Heron - We're New Here
6. Ghostpoet - Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam
5. SBTRKT - SBTRKT
4. Frank Ocean - Nostalgia Ultra
3. James Blake - James Blake
2. The Weeknd - House of Balloons
1. Jamie Woon - Mirrorwriting
I hope you have enjoyed reading the feature as much as I have enjoyed putting it together, the year truly was a brilliant year for music.
There have been some good albums that could quite feasible made the list Rustie's Glass Swords and Sepalcure's self titled album both suffered from being released late in the year the same applies to Drake's Take Care which for what it's worth was probably the best hip hop album released this year especially after the disappointment of Watch The Throne by Jay-Z and Kanye West. There were other highlights Battles and Wu Lyf both released albums that were more destined for live performance than home listening and both delivered scintillating live performances at the Kazimier. The list of albums I enjoyed is vast Metronomy delivered a great indie pop record, Nicolas Jaar a lovely LP of electronica, Aloe Blacc's LP oozed soul and Balam Acab some haunting future bass music. However, none of the aforementioned albums moved me as much as the below list.
10. VA - Fabriclive 57 (Mixed by Jackmaster)
9. Modeselektor - Monkeytown
8. LV & Joshua Idehen - Routes
7. Jamie XX & Gil Scott Heron - We're New Here
6. Ghostpoet - Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam
5. SBTRKT - SBTRKT
4. Frank Ocean - Nostalgia Ultra
3. James Blake - James Blake
2. The Weeknd - House of Balloons
1. Jamie Woon - Mirrorwriting
I hope you have enjoyed reading the feature as much as I have enjoyed putting it together, the year truly was a brilliant year for music.
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #1
Without any further ado the winner is....
1. Jamie Woon - Mirrorwriting
I first heard Jamie Woon on a TruThoughts covers compilation album a couple of years back doing a cover of Olive’s You’re Not Alone, it took a while to get from then to the release of a full album but boy was it worth the wait.
The album has easily been the most played album of my year hence the award of album of the year. Lady Luck has also found its way into 90% of my DJ sets this year, also having a crossover appeal with house DJ and king of DC10 Luciano making an edit of it and dropping it in his sets too.
The ethereal feel of Mirrorwriting encapsulates the feeling of being in a big city surrounded by people, yet feeling alone in a subtle and beautiful manner. Night Air begins the journey and sets the tone, with a little help of the genius that is Burial, with his trademark beats and haunting melodies coupled with Woon’s emotive voice. There aren’t enough superlatives to express how good this album is, it glides effortlessly from track to track losing you in the moment and before you know it you are at your final destination (assuming you have it on while travelling). Anyone who has watched the Youtube version of Spirits can bear witness to the talent of Jamie Woon where he plays as a one man band with the use of a sampler and he played a part in the production, writing and obviously vocals of Mirrorwriting, a multi talented exceptional artist.
The only criticism I can offer is that Jamie Woon’s live show left me disappointed on two occasions this year, while the sound of his voice is as good live as it is on the album I found the live performances a little wooden and lacking in personality. However this is an album of the year feature not a live performance of the year feature so Mirrorwriting wins hands down.
1. Jamie Woon - Mirrorwriting
I first heard Jamie Woon on a TruThoughts covers compilation album a couple of years back doing a cover of Olive’s You’re Not Alone, it took a while to get from then to the release of a full album but boy was it worth the wait.
The album has easily been the most played album of my year hence the award of album of the year. Lady Luck has also found its way into 90% of my DJ sets this year, also having a crossover appeal with house DJ and king of DC10 Luciano making an edit of it and dropping it in his sets too.
The ethereal feel of Mirrorwriting encapsulates the feeling of being in a big city surrounded by people, yet feeling alone in a subtle and beautiful manner. Night Air begins the journey and sets the tone, with a little help of the genius that is Burial, with his trademark beats and haunting melodies coupled with Woon’s emotive voice. There aren’t enough superlatives to express how good this album is, it glides effortlessly from track to track losing you in the moment and before you know it you are at your final destination (assuming you have it on while travelling). Anyone who has watched the Youtube version of Spirits can bear witness to the talent of Jamie Woon where he plays as a one man band with the use of a sampler and he played a part in the production, writing and obviously vocals of Mirrorwriting, a multi talented exceptional artist.
The only criticism I can offer is that Jamie Woon’s live show left me disappointed on two occasions this year, while the sound of his voice is as good live as it is on the album I found the live performances a little wooden and lacking in personality. However this is an album of the year feature not a live performance of the year feature so Mirrorwriting wins hands down.
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #2
It's another mixtape at number 2, I'm not the only person to rate it so highly too with House of Balloons being made FACT magazine's album of 2011 not quite there for me but I'm sure The Weeknd will get over it!
2. The Weeknd - House of Balloons
A recommendation from a friend was how I discovered The Weeknd (Cheers Gary!) and what a discovery it was too. House of Balloons is the first in a trilogy of mixtapes, the second was recently released and is of outstanding quality. However it is House of Balloons what we are here to talk about primarily, some of the production makes me thing that this is what Burial would sound like if he was a vocalist and making R&B. Unlike the earlier mentioned Frank Ocean, this is a record that probably is R&B but it is much less radio friendly than Frank’s offering.
The Weeknd started off with a bit of a Burial vibe enigmatic approach, a secrecy to identity, recent collaborations with fellow Canadian Drake have entered him more into the eyes of the mainstream and deservedly so. My favourite DJ of the year Oneman has been championing tracks from the album all year, the sumptuous ‘What You Need’ in particular. The mixtape has the usual samples of well known records, but they are expertly chosen and used in such a complimentary fashion none more so than the Juan Maclean version of Happy House by Siouxsie and the Banshees. All in all this body of work is something that is extremely easy to listen to over and over again, I haven’t met a single person who could disagree with that either.
Both mixtapes mentioned in this piece are available for FREE DOWNLOAD on The Weeknd's official website. A third is due to drop in 2012, which I for one am eagerly anticipating.
2. The Weeknd - House of Balloons
A recommendation from a friend was how I discovered The Weeknd (Cheers Gary!) and what a discovery it was too. House of Balloons is the first in a trilogy of mixtapes, the second was recently released and is of outstanding quality. However it is House of Balloons what we are here to talk about primarily, some of the production makes me thing that this is what Burial would sound like if he was a vocalist and making R&B. Unlike the earlier mentioned Frank Ocean, this is a record that probably is R&B but it is much less radio friendly than Frank’s offering.
The Weeknd started off with a bit of a Burial vibe enigmatic approach, a secrecy to identity, recent collaborations with fellow Canadian Drake have entered him more into the eyes of the mainstream and deservedly so. My favourite DJ of the year Oneman has been championing tracks from the album all year, the sumptuous ‘What You Need’ in particular. The mixtape has the usual samples of well known records, but they are expertly chosen and used in such a complimentary fashion none more so than the Juan Maclean version of Happy House by Siouxsie and the Banshees. All in all this body of work is something that is extremely easy to listen to over and over again, I haven’t met a single person who could disagree with that either.
Both mixtapes mentioned in this piece are available for FREE DOWNLOAD on The Weeknd's official website. A third is due to drop in 2012, which I for one am eagerly anticipating.
Monday, 12 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #3
The album at number 3 was given a full review on this blog upon release in February and was given 9/10 so it was a given that it was always going to be in and around the contenders at the end of year awards.
3. James Blake - James Blake
James Blake’s self titled LP was much anticipated and did not fail to deliver. Rightly included in the BBC Sound of 2011 feature he has had a brilliant year touring the album with an incredibly charming live show which I was fortunate enough to witness in a 300 capacity dark room in Liverpool as well as on the main stage of The Big Chill festival with about 20,000 other revellers.
James’ voice is brilliant and in ‘Give Me My Month’ he showcases it with only a piano for company resulting in an effortlessly beautiful two minutes. The album contains what has to be credited as the most emotive track of the year the mesmerising Wilhelms Scream. It’s not just raw emotion and ballads on this body of work though Limit To Your Love has a quivering bass and I Never Learnt to Share a synth laden breakdown that would certainly wake you up if listened to on the morning commute to work. All in all what James Blake offered with this album was something I had never heard before and it will continue to be played for many years to come.
3. James Blake - James Blake
James Blake’s self titled LP was much anticipated and did not fail to deliver. Rightly included in the BBC Sound of 2011 feature he has had a brilliant year touring the album with an incredibly charming live show which I was fortunate enough to witness in a 300 capacity dark room in Liverpool as well as on the main stage of The Big Chill festival with about 20,000 other revellers.
James’ voice is brilliant and in ‘Give Me My Month’ he showcases it with only a piano for company resulting in an effortlessly beautiful two minutes. The album contains what has to be credited as the most emotive track of the year the mesmerising Wilhelms Scream. It’s not just raw emotion and ballads on this body of work though Limit To Your Love has a quivering bass and I Never Learnt to Share a synth laden breakdown that would certainly wake you up if listened to on the morning commute to work. All in all what James Blake offered with this album was something I had never heard before and it will continue to be played for many years to come.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #4
It’s an American artist who hasn’t strictly released an album up next in the countdown. This mixtape was released in February and blew up soon after, landing Frank Ocean some big time guest appearances including on two tracks of the Jay-Z/Kanye West collab Watch the Throne.
4. Frank Ocean - Nostalgia Ultra
I can remember hearing Novacane for the first time on a DJ Oneman Boiler Room set and straight away typed in the lyrics to Google to find out what it was. This album, sorry mixtape was released to vent frustrations that Frank’s record label Def Jam had neglected him proclaiming on Twitter that "i. did. this. not ISLAND DEF JAM”. The album uses the ultra soulful voice of Frank together with well used samples to create what is essentially a pretty poppy R&B record. But it’s a bloody good R&B record!
The tracks are linked together with nostalgic interludes named after 90’s video games with the sounds of a cassette player rewinding, fast-forwarding, and clicking. Giving the mixtape an old school vibe, the content matter of the lyrics are more meaningful and dare I say slightly higher brow than you would come to expect from a 21st century R&B record. Swim Good deals with suicide, We All Try is an uplifting look into faith in humanity and Songs for Women has humour to it as Frank tells of the toils and troubles of getting the girl.
The mixtape is available for FREE DOWNLOAD over on Frank's TUMBLR page.
4. Frank Ocean - Nostalgia Ultra
I can remember hearing Novacane for the first time on a DJ Oneman Boiler Room set and straight away typed in the lyrics to Google to find out what it was. This album, sorry mixtape was released to vent frustrations that Frank’s record label Def Jam had neglected him proclaiming on Twitter that "i. did. this. not ISLAND DEF JAM”. The album uses the ultra soulful voice of Frank together with well used samples to create what is essentially a pretty poppy R&B record. But it’s a bloody good R&B record!
The tracks are linked together with nostalgic interludes named after 90’s video games with the sounds of a cassette player rewinding, fast-forwarding, and clicking. Giving the mixtape an old school vibe, the content matter of the lyrics are more meaningful and dare I say slightly higher brow than you would come to expect from a 21st century R&B record. Swim Good deals with suicide, We All Try is an uplifting look into faith in humanity and Songs for Women has humour to it as Frank tells of the toils and troubles of getting the girl.
The mixtape is available for FREE DOWNLOAD over on Frank's TUMBLR page.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #5
The final five begins with two masked dance producers, but it’s not Daft Punk...
5. SBTRKT - SBTRKT
SBTRKT (and Sampha) put together quite possibly the best dance album I have heard for a good few years, with a stellar cast of guest vocalists the masked man glides effortlessly through a myriad of future garage, dubstep and house to produce not only a dance floor friendly LP but also one that is pleasantly listenable. Sampha provides vocals on a lot of the tracks with his trademark soulful tones and is joined by a harem of excellent female vocalists in Jessie Ware, Roses Gabor and Yukimi Nagano (Little Dragon). US rapper Drake was equally as impressed with SBTRKT as I was and used the Yukimi Nagano vocalled track Wildfire for a remix.
The live show is also well worth seeing, with a tour on the horizon next year. I was fortunate enough to see them on the banks of the lake at Melt! Festival with a couple of thousand incredibly nice German people, the Drake remix of Wildfire was met with great joy! My only critique of the live show was that it failed to include my favourite track from the album Pharaohs.
5. SBTRKT - SBTRKT
SBTRKT (and Sampha) put together quite possibly the best dance album I have heard for a good few years, with a stellar cast of guest vocalists the masked man glides effortlessly through a myriad of future garage, dubstep and house to produce not only a dance floor friendly LP but also one that is pleasantly listenable. Sampha provides vocals on a lot of the tracks with his trademark soulful tones and is joined by a harem of excellent female vocalists in Jessie Ware, Roses Gabor and Yukimi Nagano (Little Dragon). US rapper Drake was equally as impressed with SBTRKT as I was and used the Yukimi Nagano vocalled track Wildfire for a remix.
The live show is also well worth seeing, with a tour on the horizon next year. I was fortunate enough to see them on the banks of the lake at Melt! Festival with a couple of thousand incredibly nice German people, the Drake remix of Wildfire was met with great joy! My only critique of the live show was that it failed to include my favourite track from the album Pharaohs.
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #6
A Mercury Music Prize nominee and yet another Londoner comes in at number 6. Though while a Londoner Ghostpoet is actually a fan of Liverpool FC, something he demonstrated at the Liverpool Music Week closing party by entering the stage with an LFC scarf, the poor chap didn’t count on the partisan nature of the LFC/Everton divide and a chorus of boo’s comically rained down upon him. Yet, he did produce a standout album hence his inclusion here.
6. Ghostpoet - Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam
If ever there was an aptly named artist then it’s Ghostpoet. The quirkily named Peanut Butter Blue and Melancholy Jam brings together urban poetry and haunting electronic production not to dissimilar to that of Burial at times. Spoken rather than rapped the London voice of Ghostpoet narrates through a story of struggles in a 21st century city, much like Joshua Idehen does on the earlier mentioned Routes. Despite the chapters which deal with struggles with alcohol and heartbreak the album has a resistant element of embracing the struggles, as depicted in the uplifting Survive It. The live show is well worth a look, having caught Ghostpoet twice this year I was not left disappointed especially at The Big Chill where to quote the man himself “I must admit it got quite wild”.
6. Ghostpoet - Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam
If ever there was an aptly named artist then it’s Ghostpoet. The quirkily named Peanut Butter Blue and Melancholy Jam brings together urban poetry and haunting electronic production not to dissimilar to that of Burial at times. Spoken rather than rapped the London voice of Ghostpoet narrates through a story of struggles in a 21st century city, much like Joshua Idehen does on the earlier mentioned Routes. Despite the chapters which deal with struggles with alcohol and heartbreak the album has a resistant element of embracing the struggles, as depicted in the uplifting Survive It. The live show is well worth a look, having caught Ghostpoet twice this year I was not left disappointed especially at The Big Chill where to quote the man himself “I must admit it got quite wild”.
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #7
Number 7 brought together a rising star (Jamie XX) and what sadly became a fading legend as Gil Scott Heron departed this life for the next in 2011. It was quite fitting that his music was remixed before his passing to create a new fan base to carry on his legacy.
7. Gil Scott Heron & Jamie XX – We’re New Here
Jamie XX had a massive 2011 (as was predicted by this here blog in January) with this remix album, a critically acclaimed single, probably the remix of the year with his Adele rework and now Drake and Rhianna are using his beats for their respective new albums. This album uses Jamie’s trademark production skills, there is “space between the beats” and it is also used to showcase some of his influences with the old school piano riff on I’ll Take Care of You and the Rui Da Silva ‘Touch Me’ sample in Ur Soul and Mine.
The album ranks in my top 10 for the amount of plays it got during the early part of the year, it has fallen by the way side somewhat which is why it ranks lower than a couple of albums which were released around the same time, however I will go back to it and I’ll Take Care of You has been a staple tune at my Lovely Job gigs.
7. Gil Scott Heron & Jamie XX – We’re New Here
Jamie XX had a massive 2011 (as was predicted by this here blog in January) with this remix album, a critically acclaimed single, probably the remix of the year with his Adele rework and now Drake and Rhianna are using his beats for their respective new albums. This album uses Jamie’s trademark production skills, there is “space between the beats” and it is also used to showcase some of his influences with the old school piano riff on I’ll Take Care of You and the Rui Da Silva ‘Touch Me’ sample in Ur Soul and Mine.
The album ranks in my top 10 for the amount of plays it got during the early part of the year, it has fallen by the way side somewhat which is why it ranks lower than a couple of albums which were released around the same time, however I will go back to it and I’ll Take Care of You has been a staple tune at my Lovely Job gigs.
Monday, 5 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #8
“What do ya know about Moorgate?” *stifled laughter* “I don’t know anything about Moorgate!”
8. LV and Joshua Idehen - Routes
When I first heard Northern Line I couldn’t help but smile; the comic vocal over a quality electronic beat perhaps offered up this year’s novelty track. However when listened to in the context of the album on which it resides it all begins to make sense. My deciphering of Routes is that it is a musical portrait of London life, using the deep voice of vocalist Joshua Idehen to lay down what I would class as urban poetry over the high quality electronic beats that have became the trademark of LV. From the comedy that comes from Northern Line, there is also a darker side with Murkish Delights describing a very 21st century struggle.
The album works extremely well live, Joshua Idehen has a good presence on stage and the euphoria of album track Primary Colours is designed to be heard loud in a club full of people. Had I got onto this album earlier in the year and not just after witnessing the live show then it could actually have ranked higher and it continues to grow in stature with each listen.
8. LV and Joshua Idehen - Routes
When I first heard Northern Line I couldn’t help but smile; the comic vocal over a quality electronic beat perhaps offered up this year’s novelty track. However when listened to in the context of the album on which it resides it all begins to make sense. My deciphering of Routes is that it is a musical portrait of London life, using the deep voice of vocalist Joshua Idehen to lay down what I would class as urban poetry over the high quality electronic beats that have became the trademark of LV. From the comedy that comes from Northern Line, there is also a darker side with Murkish Delights describing a very 21st century struggle.
The album works extremely well live, Joshua Idehen has a good presence on stage and the euphoria of album track Primary Colours is designed to be heard loud in a club full of people. Had I got onto this album earlier in the year and not just after witnessing the live show then it could actually have ranked higher and it continues to grow in stature with each listen.
Friday, 2 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #9
Next up on the list is a German duo who were responsible for creating a phenomenal line up in such an idyllic setting with their beach stage at Melt! festival.
9. Modeselektor - Monkeytown
Monkeytown crafts together techno, dubstep, electronia, hip hop and more within its eleven tracks, a true example of how to construct a ‘dance music’ album in that it never leaves you bored and is not predictable. Well not unless you have listened to their first offering Happy Birthday which was equally as impressive, more so in fact; as upon its release it seemed ahead of its time. Monkeytown has definitely been one of my favourite albums hence its place in this here list, however I do somewhat feel the German duo may have rested upon their laurels a tad, this coupled with the fact it was released late in the year has ultimately led to it being one or two rungs further down the ladder than perhaps it should have been. On the whole though a really solid album with two tracks in particular standing out for me and neither Berlin or Pretentious Friends are the tracks that feature their good friend Thom Yorke.
9. Modeselektor - Monkeytown
Monkeytown crafts together techno, dubstep, electronia, hip hop and more within its eleven tracks, a true example of how to construct a ‘dance music’ album in that it never leaves you bored and is not predictable. Well not unless you have listened to their first offering Happy Birthday which was equally as impressive, more so in fact; as upon its release it seemed ahead of its time. Monkeytown has definitely been one of my favourite albums hence its place in this here list, however I do somewhat feel the German duo may have rested upon their laurels a tad, this coupled with the fact it was released late in the year has ultimately led to it being one or two rungs further down the ladder than perhaps it should have been. On the whole though a really solid album with two tracks in particular standing out for me and neither Berlin or Pretentious Friends are the tracks that feature their good friend Thom Yorke.
Thursday, 1 December 2011
Top 10 Albums of 2011: #10
In a change to how the 'results' are presented from last year I have decided to announce an album every couple of days with a summary of all to recap once all have been announced. First up is number 10.
10. VA - Fabriclive 57 (Mixed by Jackmaster)
Thanks to the Boiler Room’s ever growing success it is now cool to be a DJ again, along with Oneman and Ben UFO the Glaswegian Jackmaster has forged a reputation at the cutting edge of the UK Bass music scene over recent years and as such was asked to mix the 57th instalment of the Fabriclive CD series. The mix is fantastic; it encapsulates a Jackmaster set perfectly never fearing to blur the boundaries between musical genres. Including anthems from Inner City, Larry Heard and Sia the mix has a strong party vibe to it while also managing to remain current as these classic cuts are intertwined with fresh beats from UK Bass stalwarts such as Addison Groove, SBTRKT and Hudson Mohawke. Thoroughly enjoyable throughout, a definite way to ease someone in to the musical realms that have made more waves than any other in 2011.
10. VA - Fabriclive 57 (Mixed by Jackmaster)
Thanks to the Boiler Room’s ever growing success it is now cool to be a DJ again, along with Oneman and Ben UFO the Glaswegian Jackmaster has forged a reputation at the cutting edge of the UK Bass music scene over recent years and as such was asked to mix the 57th instalment of the Fabriclive CD series. The mix is fantastic; it encapsulates a Jackmaster set perfectly never fearing to blur the boundaries between musical genres. Including anthems from Inner City, Larry Heard and Sia the mix has a strong party vibe to it while also managing to remain current as these classic cuts are intertwined with fresh beats from UK Bass stalwarts such as Addison Groove, SBTRKT and Hudson Mohawke. Thoroughly enjoyable throughout, a definite way to ease someone in to the musical realms that have made more waves than any other in 2011.
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
TRM Recommends: Dancefloor Tracks of 2011
Is it too early to be dropping 'Best of' lists in October? Perhaps it is but here is one anyway. While in 2011 I have kind of shifted away from electronic music somewhat and barely visited a club; I have been able to remain in touch with it thanks to festivals, blogs and the Boiler Room, which has become my main supplier of new 'dance' music. So I have decided to compile a short list of some of my favourite dancefloor aimed tracks of the year, there is no order besides the order that the tracks popped into my head.
This post is a precursor to the Top 10 Albums of the year post, which will be a more in depth review of the year's releases. That particular post will be made on December 1st, the eve of the year's final installment of The Lovely Job, where I shall be playing tracks from the top 10 albums and more.
Hudson Mohawke - Thunder Bay
This track just makes me want to lose my mind whenever I hear it, an ultimate smash out tune. I was fortunate to be able to play this at the September Lovely Job and to my amazement if actually went down well!
Dark Sky - Neon
Old school vibes on this one from Dark Sky, when it kicks it it reminds me and many others of Robin S' Show Me Love.
Daphni (Caribou) - Ye Ye
An extenstion of the work from last year's TRM album of the year Swim, Caribou under the alias Daphni delivers a more 4/4 offering in this groovy track with a simple yet hypnotic vocal sample. Really enjoyed dancing to this on the Dutch soundsystem on the Thursday night at the campsite at Melt! festival.
Joker ft. Jessie Ware - The Vision
What happens when one of your favourite producers and one of your favourite vocalists team up? A killer track thats what!
Cassius - I Love You So (Skream Remix)
Skream showing his versatility once again with this tribute to old school piano hardcore. Almost sounds like it brings Awesome 3's Don't Go into the 21st century.
Scuba - Feel It
A groovy house track from the Hot Flush head honcho which went down a treat at The Big Chill during his excellent set. 2011 has saw a big revival in the acid house sound, as tipified by the next track...
Boddika & Joy Orbison - Swims
Its a toss up between this and Thunder Bay if I was pushed to name a favourite dancefloor track of the year, this is sheer brilliance from the acid to the repetitive vocal to the cow bell it all works brilliantly and I was delighted that Scuba allowed me to experience hearing it at a festival.
Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - Jimmy Mack (Addison Groove Bootleg)
A bit of fun to end on, probably the biggest musical regret of the year was missing Addison Groove at Melt! festival due to a state of inebriation and thus the opportunity to hear this. I am a massive fan of the original and oh my word when it kicks into Addison's trademark sound, wow.
So there it is a collection of my favourite dancefloor tracks of the year, hope you enjoyed reading/listening as much as I have enjoyed this eight tracks throughout the year.
This post is a precursor to the Top 10 Albums of the year post, which will be a more in depth review of the year's releases. That particular post will be made on December 1st, the eve of the year's final installment of The Lovely Job, where I shall be playing tracks from the top 10 albums and more.
This track just makes me want to lose my mind whenever I hear it, an ultimate smash out tune. I was fortunate to be able to play this at the September Lovely Job and to my amazement if actually went down well!
Old school vibes on this one from Dark Sky, when it kicks it it reminds me and many others of Robin S' Show Me Love.
An extenstion of the work from last year's TRM album of the year Swim, Caribou under the alias Daphni delivers a more 4/4 offering in this groovy track with a simple yet hypnotic vocal sample. Really enjoyed dancing to this on the Dutch soundsystem on the Thursday night at the campsite at Melt! festival.
What happens when one of your favourite producers and one of your favourite vocalists team up? A killer track thats what!
Skream showing his versatility once again with this tribute to old school piano hardcore. Almost sounds like it brings Awesome 3's Don't Go into the 21st century.
A groovy house track from the Hot Flush head honcho which went down a treat at The Big Chill during his excellent set. 2011 has saw a big revival in the acid house sound, as tipified by the next track...
Its a toss up between this and Thunder Bay if I was pushed to name a favourite dancefloor track of the year, this is sheer brilliance from the acid to the repetitive vocal to the cow bell it all works brilliantly and I was delighted that Scuba allowed me to experience hearing it at a festival.
A bit of fun to end on, probably the biggest musical regret of the year was missing Addison Groove at Melt! festival due to a state of inebriation and thus the opportunity to hear this. I am a massive fan of the original and oh my word when it kicks into Addison's trademark sound, wow.
So there it is a collection of my favourite dancefloor tracks of the year, hope you enjoyed reading/listening as much as I have enjoyed this eight tracks throughout the year.
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
Mix: TRM's Selection of Old School Garage Mix
Not so long I made a post bringing back MJ Cole’s seminal essential mix back from the vault to share with readers of the blog, for those who may have missed it first time round or wanted like me to revisit it for reasons of nostalgia. Well I am back with on a (much shorter) UK Garage tip. This time it comes in the shape of a short 30 minute mix that I recorded at home using 100% vinyl mainly bought from Discogs during my spring UKG revival. The mix can be streamed or downloaded below using the Soundcloud widget. Tracklist is below. Enjoy.
The Real Mikaél - A Selection of Old School Garage Mix by therealmikael
Tracklist:
Cleptomaniacs - All I Do (Bump & Flex Mix)
Blowfelt - Lickle Roller
Beatfreaks - Speaker Box
Daniel Bedingfield - Gotta Get Thru This
The Streets - Don't Mug Yourself (Big $hot Mix)
Rip Groove - Double 99
Love Station - Teardrops (Classic Mix)
Armand Van Helden - You Don't Know Me
The Real Mikaél - A Selection of Old School Garage Mix by therealmikael
Cleptomaniacs - All I Do (Bump & Flex Mix)
Blowfelt - Lickle Roller
Beatfreaks - Speaker Box
Daniel Bedingfield - Gotta Get Thru This
The Streets - Don't Mug Yourself (Big $hot Mix)
Rip Groove - Double 99
Love Station - Teardrops (Classic Mix)
Armand Van Helden - You Don't Know Me
Monday, 19 September 2011
Event Preview: TRM @ The Lovely Job IV
Summer 2011 is now over, what better way is there to embrace the winter than donning your new winter coat and heading out to catch some live music? Liverpool's staple indie night returns to The Zanzibar on Friday 30th September with an eclectic array of artists on board for what shapes up to be yet another memorable evening. I will again be providing the soundtrack to the interludes, whilst simultaneously celebrating my 26th birthday. A birthday celebration it may be, however the party music shall not be stretching to Jive Bunny and Bad Manners. Expect classic cuts of hip hop and soul blended with guitar music that spans the decades. Given the nature of this month's headliners there could also be scope to dabble in a little bit of the electronic music that this here blog is so usually concerned with.
Our headliners this month are Killaflaw, an act who have dominated the Liverpool scene for a number of years now. That's not to say they are exclusive to this fair city, far from it having built up a strong following in the capital including none other than XFM's Eddie Temple Morris who has tipped these guys for success predicting that their forthcoming album is to make waves akin to The Prodigy, Oasis and Kasabian, high praise indeed. Take this opportunity to catch them for five British pounds in the intimate Zanzibar while you can.
Assisting Killaflaw in headline duties are resident band Tone Puppets who are fresh from overcoming adversity to deliver a scintillating headline performance on their return to London. The band are currently working on a new single as they look to push on from the success of 'Ignore' and will be likely trying out a couple of new bits on the Liverpool faithful. They were recently interviewed for Liverpool lifestyle website Seven Streets and the interview can be read by clicking this link.
Elsewhere providing support for Killaflaw and Tone Puppets during the evening's festivities will be Post Romantics, a band who with their duel lead vocals have been likened to The Libertines. Continuing with the pop rock theme are a relatively new Liverpool act in The 10 B's who received glowing reviews from their performances at the August Matthew Street fringe festival. The Wild Eyes will be bringing a psychedelic edge to proceedings. Breaking up the Liverpool love in at this month's event will be Sunderland's own Lilliput their driven acoustic indie rock will be an excellent way to kick off the evening. Finally last but not least is acoustic singer/song writer Ian Dunn who is my tip for the best of the rest. With a melancholic chord progressions and an emotive voice Dunn is likely to offer up an intimate showcase of his inner musings.
Upstairs Dean Mack's Mod and Northern Soul party 'Uptight' returns for a second Lovely Job, this time headlined by an acoustic performance by Liverpool band Chemical Casino. Two nights for £5, 11 live acts spanning wide variety of musical genres. The Lovely Job is providing value for money and a line up that cannot be competed with in Liverpool on Friday 30th September. Pay a visit, it will be lovely.
For more information tweet me @therealmikael or e mail riseinfo@hotmail.co.uk placing "The Lovely Job" in the subject heading.
Monday, 25 July 2011
10 of the Best: The Big Chill 2011 Line Up
Another festival looms, time to get listing! Much like I did for Melt! (which was amazing by the way) I have compiled a list of ten of the acts I am most looking forward to catching at this year's Big Chill festival. Some of these acts will be ovbious picks but there will be as usual some hidden gems selected, usually on a post-dubstep/future garage tip. I will note that Jamie Woon and Metronomy are both worthy of places in this top ten but in the interest of not repeating myself I shall point you over to the Melt! post for information on those two.
Upon completing the list I have realised it may be a bit more mainstream than I had first expected, if you feel this is the case let me redeem myself by pointing you in the direction of three DJs from the People's Ear stage who I will be hoping to catch. On Friday I will be enjoying the sounds of Hot Flush recordings boss Scuba who's recent Boiler Room set is superb. Saturday is time for a bit of old school jungle vibes as I plan to take in Congo Natty & Tenor Fly. Finally on Sunday, in addition to Fantastic Mr Fox there is also the brilliant Sepalcure flying the flag for the post dubstep elite. Anyway on to the list proper now!
10. Craig Charles' Funk & Soul Show
Saturday/Starburst Stage
"Fancy going to see Craig Charles DJ for 20 minutes for a laugh?"
The above quote was made by one of my friends at last year's Big Chill. We duely adhered to this request and went to see good old Dave Lister on the ones and twos. However this was no laughing matter and twenty minutes turned into the full two hours of his set as we discovered Craig Charles is an extremely talented DJ with an excellent selection of funk and soul, both new and old. In 2011 with a set on the outdoor Starburst stage, I and my friends will be there from beginning to end fully getting our funk on!
9. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
Friday/Deer Park Stage
Creator of one of the buzz albums of 2010, Ariel Pink brings his band to The Big Chill and is likely to be one of the first acts that I catch on the Deer Park Stage. With a slight look of Kurt Cobain about him and a tempremental streak that saw him walk off half way through his Coachella performance Ariel is what you might call a "proper rock star". His music certainly has a feel of the 80s about it, synth laden pop with an experimental twist. It is going to be an intriguing performance, one that I am very much looking forward to.
8. Fantastic Mr Fox
Sunday/Starburst Stage
The Big Chill are really quite good to me, last year I had been waiting a long time to catch a Joker DJ Set and they booked him. Much is the same this year I have been wanting to catch Fantastic Mr Fox since I heard his FACT Podcast and subsequently awarded it the mix of the summer award for 2010. He is a DJ who was handpicked by The XX to play the after shows of their US tour, high praise indeed for a producer/DJ who has already had several EPs of critical acclaim released. His future garage infused with an emotional edge has the potential to be one of the highlights of the weekend, especially as he plays on the outdoor Starburst stage on Sunday (hopefully under the stars!).
7. Aloe Blacc
Friday/Revellers Stage
Upon hearing 'I Need a Dollar' my initial thought was that it was a catchy tune, but I immediately thought he would either be a one hit wonder or even worse go on to be a Cee Le Green rip off. Listening to his album and in particular watching his Glastonbury performance set the record straight, a consumate performer who can deliver incredible live soulful vocals and theres lots of fun when he's around as can be seen in the above video as he bursts into a bit of Bob Marley. Also worth checking is his Jay Z '99 Problems' cover from the Live Lounge, which I would very much like to hear performed on the Revellers Stage.
6. Digital Mystikz
Friday/People's Ear Stage
At Glade 2009 I bore witness to the best dubstep set that I have ever experienced as Coki and Mala, joined by Loefah absolutely destroyed a full to the brim 3000 capacity Vapor tent. Rare banger after banger, but these two do not deliver the Radio 1 friendly wobble, expect some underground melt your face off type bass music. I hope the People's Ear stage is structurally sound as the low frequencies delivered by these two coupled with the guaranteed vociferous reaction of the crowd. Mala and Coki will smash it!
5. James Blake
Thursday/Deer Park Stage
Post Dubstep's poster boy appears at the Big Chill for a special Deer Park stage Thursday night performance where the attention will all be on him. Attention that he has earned, fresh off the back of a much deserved Mercury Music Prize nomination for his stunning self titled album he will blow the crowd away with amazing vocals, haunting use of the piano and lets not forget the quivvering bass. Having been fortunate enough to catch Mr Blake in a small 300 capacity show in Liverpool in June I know how good he is live and I am looking forward to seeing how this very astute and charming performer steps up to the big stage, I have every faith in him.
4. Janelle Monae
Saturday/Deer Park Stage
Having been a fan of her album I was pleasantly surprised to see that the BBC had chosen to air a good portion of her Glastonbury performance. What was to follow was a 'wow' moment, talk about an electric performance. She is all action, she raps, she sings, she dances - a lot! On stage she resembles a child with A.D.D. who hasn't taken their Ritalin for a couple of days, but in a good way. Her vocals do not suffer one iota despite the strenuous cardio vascular workout that she partakes in during her show. A true show woman.
3. Kanye West
Saturday/Deer Park Stage
From a show woman to a show man, possibly the best show man to burst into the public eye in the past decade. There's not a lot I need to say about Kanye West; he's brash, cocky and self assured but he has continued to back it up and has an unenviable back catalogue to woo the Big Chill crowd with on his Saturday night headline slot, including tracks from an album which many critics rated as 2010's best not to mention a forthcoming duel album with Jay Z that is due to be released three days before the festival. Exciting times, there is a very good chance that Mr West will be the show stopper of the weekend.
2. The Chemical Brothers
Friday/Deer Park Stage
I am so excited for The Chemical Brothers, having watched two of their past Glastonbury performances on TV wishing I could be there so badly, the time has now come to experience their live show in all its glory and in a much more intimate surrounding than the hoardes upon hoardes of people at Worthy Farm. I don't really need to sell this act with their amazing visuals, incredible back catalouge of anthems all mixed together with pounding acid techno they sell themselves. Unmissable.
1. Warpaint
Sunday/Deer Park Stage
Previously featured in this piece is The XX's handpicked US Tour DJ, well now its time for their handpicked US Tour support act. This all girl quartet have both an incredible EP and longplayer to their name, both of which I have played a ridiculous amount of times. Packed with emotion and brilliant vocal harmonies - all four of the group can and indeed do sing. They take to the stage in a humble girl next door type of way before launching into songs of great depth and meaning. I stayed up until 3am to catch their Coachella performance live and it was all worth it to hear the live version of Billie Holiday, I will be right at the front when these girls take to the Deer Park stage. In the run up to the line up announcement I was praying for Warpaint, so maybe there is a God.
If anyone reading is going to the festival I'd love to hear who you are looking forward to catching. Tweet me @therealmikael. Also of interest to some of you might be the Big Chill 2010 review that I wrote in the wake of last year's festival. Thanks for reading.
Upon completing the list I have realised it may be a bit more mainstream than I had first expected, if you feel this is the case let me redeem myself by pointing you in the direction of three DJs from the People's Ear stage who I will be hoping to catch. On Friday I will be enjoying the sounds of Hot Flush recordings boss Scuba who's recent Boiler Room set is superb. Saturday is time for a bit of old school jungle vibes as I plan to take in Congo Natty & Tenor Fly. Finally on Sunday, in addition to Fantastic Mr Fox there is also the brilliant Sepalcure flying the flag for the post dubstep elite. Anyway on to the list proper now!
Saturday/Starburst Stage
"Fancy going to see Craig Charles DJ for 20 minutes for a laugh?"
The above quote was made by one of my friends at last year's Big Chill. We duely adhered to this request and went to see good old Dave Lister on the ones and twos. However this was no laughing matter and twenty minutes turned into the full two hours of his set as we discovered Craig Charles is an extremely talented DJ with an excellent selection of funk and soul, both new and old. In 2011 with a set on the outdoor Starburst stage, I and my friends will be there from beginning to end fully getting our funk on!
Friday/Deer Park Stage
Creator of one of the buzz albums of 2010, Ariel Pink brings his band to The Big Chill and is likely to be one of the first acts that I catch on the Deer Park Stage. With a slight look of Kurt Cobain about him and a tempremental streak that saw him walk off half way through his Coachella performance Ariel is what you might call a "proper rock star". His music certainly has a feel of the 80s about it, synth laden pop with an experimental twist. It is going to be an intriguing performance, one that I am very much looking forward to.
Sunday/Starburst Stage
The Big Chill are really quite good to me, last year I had been waiting a long time to catch a Joker DJ Set and they booked him. Much is the same this year I have been wanting to catch Fantastic Mr Fox since I heard his FACT Podcast and subsequently awarded it the mix of the summer award for 2010. He is a DJ who was handpicked by The XX to play the after shows of their US tour, high praise indeed for a producer/DJ who has already had several EPs of critical acclaim released. His future garage infused with an emotional edge has the potential to be one of the highlights of the weekend, especially as he plays on the outdoor Starburst stage on Sunday (hopefully under the stars!).
Friday/Revellers Stage
Upon hearing 'I Need a Dollar' my initial thought was that it was a catchy tune, but I immediately thought he would either be a one hit wonder or even worse go on to be a Cee Le Green rip off. Listening to his album and in particular watching his Glastonbury performance set the record straight, a consumate performer who can deliver incredible live soulful vocals and theres lots of fun when he's around as can be seen in the above video as he bursts into a bit of Bob Marley. Also worth checking is his Jay Z '99 Problems' cover from the Live Lounge, which I would very much like to hear performed on the Revellers Stage.
Friday/People's Ear Stage
At Glade 2009 I bore witness to the best dubstep set that I have ever experienced as Coki and Mala, joined by Loefah absolutely destroyed a full to the brim 3000 capacity Vapor tent. Rare banger after banger, but these two do not deliver the Radio 1 friendly wobble, expect some underground melt your face off type bass music. I hope the People's Ear stage is structurally sound as the low frequencies delivered by these two coupled with the guaranteed vociferous reaction of the crowd. Mala and Coki will smash it!
Thursday/Deer Park Stage
Post Dubstep's poster boy appears at the Big Chill for a special Deer Park stage Thursday night performance where the attention will all be on him. Attention that he has earned, fresh off the back of a much deserved Mercury Music Prize nomination for his stunning self titled album he will blow the crowd away with amazing vocals, haunting use of the piano and lets not forget the quivvering bass. Having been fortunate enough to catch Mr Blake in a small 300 capacity show in Liverpool in June I know how good he is live and I am looking forward to seeing how this very astute and charming performer steps up to the big stage, I have every faith in him.
Saturday/Deer Park Stage
Having been a fan of her album I was pleasantly surprised to see that the BBC had chosen to air a good portion of her Glastonbury performance. What was to follow was a 'wow' moment, talk about an electric performance. She is all action, she raps, she sings, she dances - a lot! On stage she resembles a child with A.D.D. who hasn't taken their Ritalin for a couple of days, but in a good way. Her vocals do not suffer one iota despite the strenuous cardio vascular workout that she partakes in during her show. A true show woman.
Saturday/Deer Park Stage
From a show woman to a show man, possibly the best show man to burst into the public eye in the past decade. There's not a lot I need to say about Kanye West; he's brash, cocky and self assured but he has continued to back it up and has an unenviable back catalogue to woo the Big Chill crowd with on his Saturday night headline slot, including tracks from an album which many critics rated as 2010's best not to mention a forthcoming duel album with Jay Z that is due to be released three days before the festival. Exciting times, there is a very good chance that Mr West will be the show stopper of the weekend.
Friday/Deer Park Stage
I am so excited for The Chemical Brothers, having watched two of their past Glastonbury performances on TV wishing I could be there so badly, the time has now come to experience their live show in all its glory and in a much more intimate surrounding than the hoardes upon hoardes of people at Worthy Farm. I don't really need to sell this act with their amazing visuals, incredible back catalouge of anthems all mixed together with pounding acid techno they sell themselves. Unmissable.
Sunday/Deer Park Stage
Previously featured in this piece is The XX's handpicked US Tour DJ, well now its time for their handpicked US Tour support act. This all girl quartet have both an incredible EP and longplayer to their name, both of which I have played a ridiculous amount of times. Packed with emotion and brilliant vocal harmonies - all four of the group can and indeed do sing. They take to the stage in a humble girl next door type of way before launching into songs of great depth and meaning. I stayed up until 3am to catch their Coachella performance live and it was all worth it to hear the live version of Billie Holiday, I will be right at the front when these girls take to the Deer Park stage. In the run up to the line up announcement I was praying for Warpaint, so maybe there is a God.
If anyone reading is going to the festival I'd love to hear who you are looking forward to catching. Tweet me @therealmikael. Also of interest to some of you might be the Big Chill 2010 review that I wrote in the wake of last year's festival. Thanks for reading.
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