Solo Artist of the Week: Rita Ora

http://www.facebook.com/RitaOra

We continue Girl Power Week here at Bands That Need Love Too with our Solo Artist of the Week, Rita Ora! I've seen her name here and there, pretty much on tumblr because a girl I follow is quite a big fan of her, and I always make a note to myself to give her a listen, and then never do. Luckily, thanks to The Hits Radio (again) I finally heard her.

I honestly didn't know who I was listening to when the song came on, probably because I was only half paying attention (you know, because I listen to the radio when doing homework) but I quickly switched my attention because, wow, how boss is this girl's vocals and her track?

Admittedly, she's a little more known than I like to write about, what with her twitter having 900,000+ followers, but I can justify it if we pretend no one in American knows her. (Which, isn't a LIE per say. I mean, I did have to listen to British radio to hear her.) But I digress.

After falling in love with the song, R.I.P., I took to youtube to find all I could from Ms. Ora. What I found was a strong, soulful voice backed by rockin' dance beats that'd make anyone wanna move. I mean, that's kind of the main requirement for Girl Power Week if you haven't noticed. Rita Ora is the music you put on when you just want to have a good time. Her music is the music you blast while driving downtown through the city you love.

One of her singles, "How We Do (Party)," lyrically reminds me of Katy Perry's TGIF, only I personally think Ora rocks it so much better. Why I never heard it on the radio is beyond me. "R.I.P." is a harder song with heavier beats and showcases her voice better, which is probably why I love it so much. That, and it just makes me feel like the biggest badass.

In my own, humble opinion, Rita Ora has everything to make it big. She has the voice (as is apparent in her acoustic stuff), she has beats, and she has the looks. (Honestly, the girl is freaking gorgeous, and much like with Little Mix, I would LOVE to go on a shopping adventure with her.) That, and she just seems to be a pretty cool person. I mean, she cites Tina Turner, Ella Fitzgerald, David Bowie and Gwen Stefani as some of her influences. That's just... boss.

Let's just add her to the list of awesome talent coming from the UK, yeah?

America, you'd be remiss if you didn't learn to love her, like... now.

Go Download: Here in the US of A, you can pick up her single "How We Do (Party)" on iTunes! And if you're in the UK or Ireland, you can preorder her debut album 'ORA' which is set to drop August 28. No word on when it'll be out in the US though :(

And in case you needed proof of how amazing her voice really is...

Little Mix

http://www.facebook.com/LittleMixOfficial

I have quite honestly been the worst about blogging. It isn't my fault, I swear. I haven't lost my love for discovering bands, nor have I lost my love for writing. I've just been so busy that my head has been reeling from all the things that I've been trying to keep up with. (And by that, I mean I've been having one HELL of a time trying to stay on top of Spanish.) However, you will all be happy to hear that not only am I on my second to last chapter of this god forsaken book, I have also found some time to introduce you to another group :)

You see, a couple weeks ago I picked my next band to promo, but now that I listen to them a little more, I come to find I've changed my mind, which left me in distress and in dire need of a band. Who should I tell you lot to listen to if I can't decide?! Then, as I was listening to The Hits Radio-- my current radio obsession, honestly if there is anything you get from this post, it's a new radio station-- and it played Little Mix's single that I've been desperately trying to decide if I like or not, it hit me. (Along with the realization that yes, yes I DO quite like that song.) Why don't I introduce you guys to this group?

Now, I know, I KNOW. You're probably tired of my weird British artist obsession. At this point I might as well change the requirements for this blog to be from England. I swear I don't do it on purpose, it's just that A LOT of really good stuff is coming out of there right now. Cool, glad we got that out of the way. Now on to the important stuff, shall we?

Little Mix is an all girl group who won The X Factor UK (ugh don't you give me those judging eyes) and if I'm being totally, 1,000% honest, I wasn't exactly a fan of their live performances. I mean, I thought they were good, but they weren't for me, ya know? I haven't liked a girl group since The Spice Girls, and even then I think I may have only liked them because I was young and all about girl power.

But I, for the life of me, could not escape these girls. Tumblr talks about them. Sugarscape talks about them. The Hits Radio talks about them. So finally, FINALLY, I gave in (Are you happy internet?) and I gave their single "Wings" a listen. And I still wasn't sold, but I can admit that it makes me break out my inner diva. I mean, you don't have to necessarily like a song to wanna dance to it do ya? (Ex- Anything from Katy Perry) Dear lord, it's quite embarrassing how bad it makes me wanna whip my hair back and forth actually, but I still wasn't sold. In fact, as I started this post, I still wasn't exactly sure how I felt, because like I said, none of their live performances I had seen from the show had made me think, hm, those girls are fucking boss.

Then, I came across their a capella versions of "Cry Me A River" and "Survivor." (Found HERE) and though they clock in at about 25 seconds a piece, I started to get it. They weren't hiding behind any of the extras that come with The X Factor-- you know, fancy lights, dancing, etc-- they were sitting on a couch, singing and beat boxing. (That's right. BEAT BOXING. Fierce.)

But, then I saw the link that would change everything. You see, dearest readers, sitting in the "Suggested Videos" sidebar was their live performance of Damien Rice's "Cannonball." It is honestly one of the most beautiful songs, and woah, who'd think these diva-licious singers would cover that song, right? So curiosity got the better of me and I clicked it.

And then it was like the stars aligned and wow. I GET it. Alright, England, you dragged me kicking and screaming on this one but I see why they won. I understand. The song showcased each and every one of them and my breath was taken away by how spectacular they are. They aren't just some pop girl group, but four soulful singers that are SO much more.

"Wings" may be the fun track that is gonna get them on radios everywhere, but "Cannonball" is, well, it's the song that's gonna get them fans. GOD I hope they have more like it on their album, because you best believe that I'll be getting it, as I hope many other people will, because I'd actually quite enjoy seeing these girls make it. With voices like that, they deserve to make it.

That, and let's be real, I kinda wish I could be them. Have you seen how gorgeous they are? And do NOT even get me started on their wardrobes. Hey Little Mix, let's go shoppin' together, yeah?

Go Download: WELL, unfortunately you can't download anything yet :/ If you live in the UK though, you can pre-order "Wings." We Americans, however, have to wait. They're worth the wait though!

And of course, the single, which is full of color and fun and yeah. I'm still whippin' my hair.

Solo Artist of the Week: Iwan Rheon

http://www.facebook.com/iwanrheon

If you're like me, you know Iwan Rheon as Simon from the hit British show Misfits. (Haven't heard of it? You need to hop on over to Hulu right now and get filled in. Or, if you're opposed to watching shows online, Logo will start airing it July 19 at 10 PM ET. Nice little plug, eh?)

If we're being completely honest, if it hadn't been for the commercial for Misfits I saw on Logo this morning, I'd probably keep this boy all to myself. But that isn't fair to do, so I guess I'll share. (See, I can be nice.) Anyway, I've been turned on to Mr. Rheon's talents for some time now. You see, aside from being a part of such an awesome show, the Welsh actor has also been a part of the cast in the London cast of Spring Awakening (which for anyone wondering is one of my favorites) and-- obviously or I wouldn't be writing about him-- he has a musical career.

His first solo EP was recorded and released in 2010 with help from Kevin Bacon. Okay, not the Kevin Bacon you're thinking of, but it sure did grab your attention, didn't it? It's a four track slice of heaven that features him and an acoustic guitar. His second was recorded and released just last year, so as you can see, though he's been off acting, he's also kept up with this music business.

Now, I know what you're thinking. Vicci, you've told us about him, but what does he sound like?!

Well, my dear, dear readers, he sounds like a man with a wonderfully ear appeasing folk voice accompanied by acoustic guitar. He fits in nicely with the likes of the British Folk Movement that we've seen as of late. You know, that one that includes Mumford & Sons and Bobby Long. This is the type of music that you have playing on a lazy afternoon when you curl up on the couch with a good read and a nice warm cuppa. (cup·pa/ˈkəpə/: Noun: A cup of tea) 


Or on a rainy day.


Or on a nice, sunny Sunday drive.


Or while studying.


Packing for a trip.


Really, you could probably just listen to him whenever the hell you felt like it really. It's so calming and
I really can't imagine anyone being able to listen to his music without just getting lost in it.


Is it completely different from anything we've ever heard? No. It isn't. But there's always room on my 
iPod for a nice and good folk song that wants nothing from me except my undivided attention.


That being said, Iwan is currently working on a full length album to get on out there so we have more to
add to our "Just About Anything" playlist, and we'll be waiting ever so patiently because god dammit,
we love you Barry. Er, I mean Iwan.


(Don't get that reference? Well obviously you need to watch Misfits.)


Go Download: You can pick up both his 'Tongue Tied- EP' and 'Changing Times- EP' on iTunes. 
(Egad! I actually had download links for you guys!)

Solo Artist of the Week: Olly Murs

http://www.facebook.com/ollymurs

Welcome my dearest readers to the first official Solo Artist of the Week! And who better to kick off this new branch of promotions than the one and only Olly Murs.

You see, as many of you may know, I have One Direction Infection bad. Like... real bad. If I had it in me to feel ashamed, I probably would be. Luckily enough, I have no shame. But I digress. This confession is necessary because it's thanks to One Direction that I know Olly Murs. Sure, I'd heard the name before and I knew of him, I just hadn't listened to him. Not because I didn't want to, mind you, but because I just never got around to it. So when I finally got around to really listening to Mr. Murs, it was at 1D's Atlanta concert just a few nights ago.

You see, hearing people live is probably one of my favorite ways to discover artists, because really if they're great live then of course they're going to be good on album. It's like the true test. I can love an artist based on performance alone. So when Olly came out and lit that stage on fire, it was needless to say that I needed him on my iPod, and I needed him there ASAP.

For those of you who don't know, Olly was the runner up in the The X Factor UK in 2009. You know, that same X Factor that gave us our beloved British boy band. (I just love alliteration, don't you?) He was slated as the dark horse of the competition, though if I'm being honest, this Joe McElderry must be pretty damn phenomenal because I can't think of any other reason why Olly would have been beat if it weren't for that.

He's just a really funny guy, freaking adorable, and SUCH an entertainer. You know when you can just tell that someone was born to perform? Yeah. That's how I feel about him. AND on top of that, his music is quite literally the musical personification  of sunshine and happiness. Wikipedia likes to classify it as pop/reggae fusion/ska/dance/soul, which is kind of a lot of different things to roll into one, but honestly, it's probably how I'd classify it as well. I seriously can't NOT be happy when listening to his tunes. Even his slower stuff is amazing. I'm also quite certain that "I Need You Now" was written from my head, okay. If you can't relate to it, you're cold and heartless.

Of course, he also performed "Superstitious" and "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" and you guys should probably know that I freaking love Stevie Wonder too, so I may be just a tad biased.

But that's why I'm here, to tell you to look people up and decide for yourself if you think they're amazing as well! (Which you should, because right now I'm listening to him sing "Isn't She Lovely" and I just can't even handle it.)

PLEASE America, I BEG OF YOU, love Olly Murs so he can headline in the US and we can all fangirl over him and bask in the sunshiney happiness that is his music. And I mean, did I mention he's like, the cutest thing ever?

Go Download: WELL, first off, you can pick up a free remix of his single "Heart Skips A Beat" if you sign up for his newsletter. You can also pick up the original version of the single over on iTunes. And LASTLY, you should definitely pre-order his album which is released in the US on September 25 for jus $7.99, also on iTunes. Take it from me, it is worth SO much more than $7.99. (But you should know my favorite, hands down, is "I Need You Now.")

And if you have 10 minutes to spare for some Stevie Wonder Medley Goodness, check this out. You won't regret it. I promise.

Erik Hassle

http://www.facebook.com/erikhassle

I like Swedish things. Swedish Fish. Alexander Skarsgard. Swedish Meatballs. Now I can add Erik Hassle to the list. You see, my mom loves watching dance, and a choreographer named Kate Jablonski posted a new dance and the song was gorgeous. After much searching (Ok... I scrolled down to the comments section) I found that it was a cover of Robyn's "Be Mine" by Ellie Goulding and Erik Hassle. Now, I already am head over heels in love with Ellie, so it only stands to reason that I'd check out this Erik Hassle, especially given that his voice is so marvelous in the duet. And he DEFINITELY didn't disappoint. (Funnily enough, my good friend Luis wrote about Erik in October on his blog Album Confessions and honestly his post is probably more read worthy than my own lol)

You see, Mr. Hassle here has seen much success in Sweden, his album 'Hassle' making it's debut on Swedish charts and #2 and stayed on the charts for 10 weeks. Pretty damn impressive if I do say so myself. And as I went through all his songs on youtube I couldn't help but wonder, why the hell isn't he bigger here? He has such a powerfully soulful voice and sings about love and loss that everyone can relate to. ("You don't know what you've got until you're missing it a lot" he croons in his song "Hurtful" that was a free song on iTunes awhile back. Sadly enough, I missed that one -.-')

One of the best parts about his music is that even though they may tackle some pretty sad subjects, they have a strong beat to support them, making me want to dance along even though my heart is hit with all the feels. ("Nothing lasts forever, what the hell am I doing here, standing where you left me?" Seriously. If I wasn't too busy dancing, I'd probably be crying into my pillow.)

The 23 year old pop singer-songwriter is magnificent, and if we're being honest, I am completely confused as to why he hasn't been/isn't on the radio right now. I know a lot of people are losing faith in pop music, but if there is ANYONE who is gonna save it, I think it's Erik Hassle. 

Go Download: PLEASE just buy his whole album 'Pieces' because it's marvelous. But I guess if you're looking for a song to look into first, hit up "Hurtful." (You should also note that "The Thanks I Get" has GORGEOUS piano in it.)

(Just listen to his voice. Even the dog is mesmerized.)

Cher Lloyd

http://www.facebook.com/cherlloydmusic

Who do you have to thank for this post? Savan Kotecha. That's right, Savan Kotecha, songwriter and vocal producer behind artists such as Usher, Carrie Underwood and One Direction. WHY do you have him to thank? Well, my dear readers, because he has been tweeting nonstop about Cher Lloyd and curiosity finally got the better of me.

After seeing yet another tweet about her latest single, "Want U Back," I took to Youtube in search of the song and was hit in the face with a catchy summer song. Of course, this led me to start searching her album because I am in need of some serious summer tune-age. What I found, was a great, fun album.

Now, if I were to describe Cher Lloyd's music to you, I'd have to say this: It's like if Nicki Minaj and Lily Allen's music had a baby that was influenced by Godmummy Madonna. That's really weird to read, I'm sure, but I really can't think of how else to describe it. But I promise, it makes sense when you listen to her.

Let's start from the beginning, yeah?

Cher Lloyd is another product of the UK's X Factor, having been a contestant on the seventh series. (Seems to have been QUITE an exciting season, no?) She made it to the final, finishing in fourth place before being signed by Syco Music (Simon Cowell's label, in case you were wondering). And I guess you can say the rest is history.

Her debut album, 'Sticks + Stones,' boasts collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Carolina Liar and Mike Posner as well as beats that get under your skin. The album peaked in the UK at #4 and now she's trying her hand at cracking America. You know, as a part of this major British Invasion we got going on. NOT that I'm complaining. You guys already know how I feel about all things British.

That all being said, I don't think I've ever heard an album that is just so freaking catchy the whole way through. Even the one song that I'm not particularly a fan of has me bobbing my head, even if I don't want to. ("Swagger Jagger" for those of you wondering. Though I do love the chorus.) Overall, 'Sticks + Stones' is a great first album. I'm genuinely excited to see her grow as an artist and let's be real, I'm EXTRA excited to blast her music in my car with the windows down. Get with it America, I wanna hear this girl on the radio.

Go Download: "Want U Back" just dropped in America TODAY! So go pick it up HERE!!! And make sure to keep your eyes open for when her album happens :D

Empire Holiday

http://www.facebook.com/empireholiday

It's been awhile since we've had a Siri Suggestion (that's catchy, I might keep using that) here on Bands That Need Love Too, but I figure since the girl cannot stop talkin about these boys, I'd FINALLY give in and talk about them :P So here we go.

First, can I just say that Siri first REALLY brought the guys up to me on our Dallas adventure, which happened after Spring Break so I've been hearing about them now for.... two months? Ish? Yes. And those are two months that I should have spent listening to these guys as opposed to ignoring her obvious promotions for them. Yeah, yeah, I know. I don't know why I didn't listen to her earlier either. Everyone makes mistakes right? With that being said, Empire Holiday's music is kind of like Breathe Carolina's (okay maybe I took that comparison from Siri lol), only with a little more emphasis on face melting beats. (I'm currently sitting here blasting "Ballroom Murder" and it's quite intense.) I literally can't decide if I wanna turn it up louder to rock out harder or turn it down to preserve my face, which I'm sure will melt off if I turn it up another decibel. Pair said body rockin', fist pumping, blood rushing beats with Christopher Shelton's clean vocals and Ronnie Hughes' screams, and you've got one of the most in your faces songs that I have heard in a long time.

So much so in fact that I would dare say that they seem to pull off what Breathe Carolina is going for far better than Breathe Carolina does (at least, in their newer stuff). Instead of putting 50% of effort into the dance side and 50% of effort into the hardcore side to create a decent song, they give both aspects all they have which definitely sets them apart and quite frankly I love it. I can only hope that they continue down this path because "Ballroom Murder" blows the rest of the music on their Facebook page out of the water. Not to say that their old stuff wasn't decent-- and I mean, who doesn't love a cover of "What Is Love?"-- but this glimpse of what they're doing now runs circles around it.

I'm glad these guys decided to continue on with the band after a quick hiatus (er, breakup turned hiatus?), because let's face it, what they've got going is quite promising. I greatly look forward to what they have coming up next. And I very much look forward to my dear, dear Siri dragging me along to their shows :)

Go Download: Their new single "Ballroom Murder," duh. I mean, I've only been talking about it this whole post and it's only .99. You really have no excuse to go get that bad boy on iTunes!

Bastille

http://www.facebook.com/bastilleuk

Oh I know what you're thinking, what Vicci?! You're posting more than once a week again! I know, it's crazy. But I told you I'd make up for my absence. It also helps that I just happen to have stumbled across Bastille and could not contain my joy over this discovery and just HAD to write about them.

You see, my dear friend Brenna turned me to this website called 8tracks (like I needed another music website) and I'm slightly addicted. Basically, it's a site where people can make and share playlists. So it's just a bunch of random playlists and all you really know about them is the title and the description if the creator feels so inclined to give you one. You don't know WHO is on the playlist until their song has played, which I find rather intriguing myself. And as soon as the playlist is done, it moves on to another random mix. So I'm sitting here, listening to this playlist, which is really just background sound as I already know a good majority of the music on it, when all of a sudden I am ripped from my reverie (ok, a little less dramatic, I was only blogging on tumblr afterall) by these wonderful beats and most notably, the lyrics. Quickly switching to the other tab that I had open, I saw the title of the song and the name of the band. "Flaws" by Bastille. And that, my dears, is what I like to refer to as Love at First Listen. I promptly turned to Spotify, in hopes that their music would be there, and as luck may have it, their EP, 'Laura Palmer,' and their single 'Flaws' were up, and they have been on repeat since. (In case you were wondering, this all happened this morning around 1 AM.)

That all being said, Bastille started out as just Dan Smith making music in his bedroom. Upon deciding he didn't want to be a singer-songwriter anymore, he decided to expand and become a band instead. And now I'm pretty convinced that they might be flawless. I'm looking for the catch here, I really am, but so far, nothing. Everything I've listened to has been wonderful. Live stuff, acoustic stuff, covers, all amazing. The harmonies are great and the musicality is spot on. I love the melodies they play, their music is just so catchy. I mean, really, if you couldn't tell, I'm completely in love with them, and it's only been a little over 12 hours since I discovered them. I also think this might be a good time to say that on top of loving the music, I absolutely adore Dan's hair.

So to sum everything up, I think it's only a matter of time before these guys hop the pond and come over to America. At least, that's what I'm hoping, because I can guarantee that I will be at their show so quick. (Though, I guess I have no issue with going to the UK to catch em c:)

Go Download: Everything ever. Aha, all joking aside, their EP, 'Overjoyed,' is up for preorder on iTunes, but you can listen to them on Spotify and you can also pick up their mixtape 'Other People's Heartache' FOR FREE here!!!

(The song that sparked my love.)

Emeli Sandé

http://www.facebook.com/emelisande

 Now, I know it has been a while. But for good reason. Not only have I been away trying to be a good student so that I can one day do this for a living, but I've also been away trying to find someone that I would be excited to talk about. I've come across so many acts that sound just like each other, and while I can appreciate them all, I was looking for something new and exciting. That new and exciting something came to me in the form of Emeli Sandé.

 My love for the Scottish soul and R&B singer is all due to tumblr. While perusing the One Direction tag (Yeah yeah, I know. I'm a fangirl. What can I say.) I saw a post about a song called "Read All About It Pt III." Now, I don't know what it was that pulled me to it, because it obviously was NOT One Direction-- though it did tie in and belong in the tag after I found out the reasoning-- but I just had to listen to it. Maybe it was because of the couple of lines of lyrics attached, or maybe it was because I was on this search for something to add to my iPod. Whatever it was, it led me to some of the most beautiful music I have listened to.

 You see, Sandé started as a songwriter, writing for acts like Tinie Tempah, Cheryl Cole, Professor Green and several others. Soon after she tried to break into the singing business as well, and eventually landed a record deal in 2011 with EMI Records. Now, not only has she boosted her writing resume to include Leona Lewis and Susan Boyle she's released her album 'Our Version Of Events.' And by released I mean she's released it in the UK already, where it entered the charts at #1. We here in the US have to wait until June 5 to own it (Or, you know, legally own it.) Can I also mention that she won the Brit for Critics' Choice at this year's Brit Awards? So she's already got the UK with her charm, and with the latest wave of British artists hopping the pond and trying to dominate the US (One Direction, The Wanted, Ed Sheeran, etc) I wouldn't be shocked if she puts us under her spell as well. (Fun Fact: She made her US television debut on April 19 on Conan! Check it out here!!)

 Now that we've talked all the fun background stuff, let's talk about the facts. The girl is fabulous. She has a gorgeous voice, she can play the piano and her lyrics are just downright beautiful. Her music is the stuff you pop in while sipping on a glass of wine and winding down after a long day or while your soaking in a nice long bath. It's the kind of music you pop in to get yourself focused. It's the kind of music that you listen to when you need a good cry. Most importantly, it's the type of music you put on when you just need to feel understood, because let's face it, Ms. Sandé is saying everything we have always wanted to say, just could never say it as eloquently.

 Not only that, but I believe that what she writes isn't written with the intention of making it a radio hit. She writes about are themes that people SHOULD be hearing about. In the description of her latest music video, "My Kind of Love," she wrote

During my time studying medicine, I found it hard to write, but one of the things that inspired me were the patients and the interaction that they had with their loved ones during their time of illness. When people arrived at the hospital, money and status became irrelevant and only health mattered, which sparked an honesty between people which was amazing. This interaction, declaration of support and love, was the inspiration for "My Kind Of Love" and something I wanted to try and portray in this video.

So yeah, I firmly believe that what she writes is art. It has surpassed the point of music and become something infinitely more beautiful. (Wow how many times can I say beautiful in one post?)

 Anyway, I think at this point you can tell that I'm completely in love with Emeli Sandé. Her album is amazing. Her videos are amazing. She's amazing. Signed, sealed, delivered. She's bringing something back to the music scene that I think has been sorely lacking, and I personally cannot wait to see more of her.

Go Download: You can preorder 'Our Version of Events' on iTunes for just $7.99, which is practically stealing. You also get her song "Next To Me" as soon as you do :)However, my personal favorites are "River" and "Read All About It Pt III." (Though "Read All About It Pt III" doesn't seem to be on the US version of the album.)

We Caught the Castle

http://www.wecaughtthecastle.com/

So I was checking my Tumblr, you know, to see if anyone thought any of my posts were interesting enough to reblog and whatnot when I saw that I gained a new follower! Gaining a new follower on Tumblr always excites me because I figure they're following me because the genuinely like what I post, which means they like me because my Tumblr is basically what the inside of my head looks like. Anyway, so I checked out who followed me, and much to my surprise, it was a guy by the name of Joe Sellers, and he is in a band.

Upon clicking on the video he had posted of his band, I just HAD to listen to more of their music. I have mentioned before that I am not a fan of the female voice. My iPod is dominated by men, mainly because women can just be so damn whiney. But We Caught the Castle's front woman Hollie Elizabeth could sure as HELL hold her own on my iTunes library. While I come to find that many female vocalists in the pop-rock/punk genre are often compared to Hayley Williams or Cassadee Pope, I can't help but feel that Hollie not only could run circles around the two, but should be one of the voices others are compared to instead. (Not that I have anything against Hayley Williams or Cassadee Pope. They just are not my favorite female vocalists.)

But Ms. Elizabeth's voice isn't the the main component of what makes WCTC so good. No, this band is one of those bands that has found the magical combination. Maybe separately they are all great, but together... well... together they're fucking menace. While Hollie is the main voice, Robbie Everett (Bass), Simon Jackman (Lead Guitar) and the aforementioned Joe (Rhythm Guitar) all contribute vocals, creating such a wonderful contrast to blast from my speakers.

Don't think that this means I've forgotten Zak Watson, the band's drummer, because this boy holds it down. Generally, I'm not immediately captured by drums. I am aware that they're there, but I get caught up in voices first, and then guitars, and so on. However, this time around, my ears are just drawn to the pulsing, driving, crashing sounds that he's doling out on his drum set, and boy are they pleased.

I also think I should mention that Simon rocks a killer guitar solo in their song "Say What You Want." (Fun fact: I just listened to that song three times in a row because I liked it so much.)

Basically, these guys are where it's at. As far as I'm concerned, I would consider them my favorite female fronted band, and that is saying something. They are definitely a gem, and I kind of feel like I need to personally thank Joe for following me on Tumblr so that I could discover them.

ALSO, they're going to drop an album in March. They're doing a launch party for it March 23, so I can only assume that it comes out around that time. So if you're in Reading, you should DEFINITELY check it out. (Just add this to the many list of reasons as to why I live in the wrong country. -.- I need to get to the England. STAT.)


Go Download: Everything they have on iTunes. Seriously. That's like, $6. So worth it.

We Are The Ocean

http://wearetheocean.co.uk/

It always blows my mind how a band can be so popular in one place and then not known in another. Now, I will admit that this time around I was a part of the "not knowing" category, but I have rectified the situation as it is a TERRIBLE category to be in.

You see, I got to catch We Are The Ocean on tour with You Me At Six, The Swellers and Twin Atlantic earlier this week and if we're being quite honest, I wasn't sure what I was expecting. Aside from knowing that they were British, I knew nothing of them. They definitely blew my mind though when they played. They were SO energetic even though the crowd was not. (Not only was it a really small crowd, we didn't know them.) One of their vocalists, Dan Brown, would come into the crowd and sing and rock the fuck out. It was actually in the moment that he came down from the stage and into the crowd that I decided these guys were gonna be HUGE. So of course, after the show I bought their album from them and talked with their guitarists Liam Cromby (who is also the second vocalist) and Alfie Scully and let me tell you they are some pretty cool dudes. I'm sad I missed meeting the others because I can only imagine that they're just as cool. (For real though. They are just so nice. I can't emphasize that enough.)

Anyway, I researched them the next day, and was really surprised to find that they weren't as little known as I had assumed they were. They actually have the second highest amount of Facebook likes of the four on the tour, which made me feel even worse about having just now discovered them.

I think what I love most is the contrast in Dan and Liam's voices. Liam's is like silk. It's fine and soothing and pulls you in and then Dan comes in and vocally punches you in the face. And what's weirdest of all is that on paper they shouldn't be able to blend so wonderfully together. But honestly, their voices come together to create one of the most unique sounds I have ever had the pleasure of listening to.

Now, what I have deduced from having their album on repeat since purchasing it two days ago, is that these guys offer something that we just don't grow in the US. In fact, I can't think of any band from the US that I could possibly compare them to. They remind me of Fightstar, but I mean, Fightstar wasn't from America either. So, I think what I'm trying to tell you is that these boys know rock.

There are people out there who will say that they are "rock" and maybe they're a category of rock, but WATO is the real deal.

So if you like your drums hard hitting (Thank you Tom Whittaker!), your bass causing your chest cavity to vibrate (Thanks Jack Spence!), your guitars ripping up the air (Here's lookin at you Alfie and Liam!) and your vocals dirty and gritty (Get it Dan!) than you have found the band for you.

I can promise you that checking them out will only lead to one of the best musical experiences you could have.

Go Download: Their latest album, "Go Now And Live," from iTunes!!! (However, I would suggest seeing them in concert so you can buy the physical copy because it comes with a download card to get 10 acoustic tracks. And between you and me, their acoustic stuff is just as mindblowing as the full band stuff.)

The After Party

http://www.facebook.com/theafterpartymusic\

You know when a blockbuster comes out? And everyone hypes it up SOOOOO much and your expectations are so high that by the time you finally do get around to seeing the movie, it just can't live up to the hype? (Here's lookin at you Shutter Island.) Well, that was my biggest fear with The After Party. You see, my dear friend Siri actually knows these guys, so of course she told me about how awesome they were. So yeah, they had a lot to live up to.

And you wanna know what?

They definitely met my expectations, if not exceeded them. I got the chance to see them on the "All The Way" Tour with Allstar Weekend, Hollywood Ending and Before You Exit when they were in San Antonio. (You know, because for some reason bands have an aversion to Austin in the Spring. We're cool too, ok!) And boy did they put on a show. They were up beat, and dancing, and just having a damn good time even though the venue was seriously lacking in AC.

Now, anyone who knows me knows that I can appreciate a song with a good catchy beat that is like caffeine for the soul, and this band has managed to capture that in all their songs.

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! You think they're just a fun pop group that can only make songs that make you wanna dance, be it at a show or around in your room with a hairbrush microphone (I'm still allowed to do that even though I'm turning 21 this year, right?), but you're wrong! They even have the sentimental ballad, "California," that is just so sweet. When they played it at the show-- with doctored lyrics to say San Antonio instead-- My heart may have melted just a little bit. It probably would have melted more if I was actually from San Antonio, but whatever. I can still appreciate lol.

BUT WAIT! IT GETS EVEN BETTER! They are really nice guys. And you guys know by now that I hold bands with nice guys up pretty high. We talked with them for a bit after the show and they just seemed like genuinely nice guys. (Ok, well I didn't get to talk to Kenny, the lead singer, but he seems like a cool dude too lol)

Anyway, now that I've digressed multiple times, you guys should know that I've fallen pretty hardcore for these boys, and their CD that Siri made me isn't going to be leaving my car CD player anytime soon.

Go Download: Their self-titled EP from iTunes!!! (And also, have I mentioned that they covered *NSYNC and actually did them justice? I didn't? Well. They did.)

Can I also just say that I can back any boys that rock the fake moustache XD

Cameron Mitchell

http://www.youtube.com/user/cameronmitchellmusic

You guys remember in November when I posted about Tanner Patrick? And how he was awesome? Well, I follow him pretty closely, because if you couldn't tell from that post, I totally adore the boy. And he posted a new video this week. Not JUST a new video, but a COLLABORATION video. Oh yeah. So not only was it a REALLY good collaboration (can you tell I'm excited?) but I was like I need to find out who this boy is that he worked with. So I youtube'd him.

Lo and behold, I was introduced to Cameron Mitchell. Now, not being a fan of The Glee Project, I had no idea who he was. (Apparently he was a favorite but dropped out because he didn't think it was for him? Don't quote me on that, that's what I'm getting from this Pop Crush recap lmao) But wow did this boy blow my mind! I can see why Ryan Murphy wasn't ready to let him go when he bowed out of the competition.

His voice is very... smooth. I feel like someone is rubbing velvet on my ear drums. (That's probably really weird to say.) On top of that, he doesn't just do covers, which is refreshing given that the majority of the youtubers I talk about do mainly covers. In fact, as we speak I'm listening to his beautiful song "All My Love." Seriously, I feel like he's singing to me. And just me. It's awesome.

Oh, but that is not all with Mr. Mitchell. He pairs sooooo well with other singers. Like I said, his collab with Tanner is one of my favorites and he and Damian McGinty (that utterly adorable Irish boy who I think won The Glee Project? He was on an episode anyway)just mesh SO well together.

I honestly can't say enough good things about this kid. From his awesome glasses to his little, self proclaimed nerd shoes, I can't really find anything that I DON'T like.

Of course, you know how I do. I can like them all I want, but it's ultimately up to you. But for real, you need to go listen to him. NOW.

GO DOWNLOAD: You can pick up his original stuff on iTunes!!! You can also check out some more covers by him on his Soundcloud. (I think I've covered all the bases lol Youtube, iTunes and Soundcloud. Go at!!!)





And lastly, the video that introduced me to him :)

Gotye

http://gotye.com/

So, here's the thing about Gotye. He wasn't an instant love of mine. You've seen it time and time again where I listen to a band and fall into instant love and have to drop everything to come to BTNLT to write about them. That was not the case with Gotye. I heard Gotye, and yes, I rather liked "Somebody That I Used To Know," HOWEVER, upon listening to the rest of his album, I couldn't decide if I liked HIM or just that one song. That's why it has been longer than anticipated because I couldn't pinpoint what it was about Gotye. Maybe it wasn't an instant love, but for some reason I just couldn't stop thinking about his album.

So after five days of this odd fascination I have come up with this conclusion. While every other post on this blog was an instant love, this one was much more than that. I didn't fall into the sudden frenzy of like but rather it got under my skin. Gotye has done what so many bands try to do, which is not just make you buy their album, but intrigue you. Sure, I can love you, and I can love your band and buy all your music, but there is something to be said about a band that can make me completely enthralled by them. So much so that even when I wasn't sure how I felt about the music, I couldn't help but NEED to listen to it.

Now, of course, I can tell you that I simply adore Gotye. Hailing from Australia, Gotye has managed to make music that is completely indescribable by any genre label that I can think of. Really the only way I can think of describing him is by comparing him to mixtures of other people, and even than it's a stretch. (But in case you were wondering, I like to think of his sound as Sting and M83's lovechild.)

That being said, it isn't often you find music that is a class of its own, especially in this day and age where so much of it sounds the same. (Not that I'm knocking that. Why fix what ain't broke, right?)

I would like to go out on a limb here and say that Gotye is gonna be the start of a new radio era. He has already sold out the majority of his shows in the US, so obviously he has already acquired a strong fan base. I, for one, just wish he would be coming to Texas, because I would be there so quick.

Anyway, Gotye is the sort of musical act that you won't fall in love with by reading about because there aren't words to properly convey to you what Gotye is. Gotye is.... well.... Gotye. So I would highly suggest you stop right now, and listen to him. Yeah? (You can listen to his whole album HERE)

Go Download: I feel like saying "Somebody That I Used To Know" would be a cop out since it's the single, but definitely that one and "Eyes Open" from his album Making Mirrors.

Top 10 Discoveries of 2011: #3

Name: Finding Atlantis
Original Post: http://corneroflostandfound.blogspot.com/2011/11/finding-atlantis.html

Why: Let's be real, if I had a record label, these boys would be the first people I would sign. Plain and simple. Ever since getting the EP (which Chris emailed to me, which was WAY too nice and made my day) I have listened to it at least twice a day. I can't tell you just how great I think these guys are, not to mention how nice they are. Seriously. Vicci stamp of approval ALL OVER THIS BAND. Trust me when I say their EP is WELL worth the $5. SO GO GET IT ON ITUNES!!!!

What they've done since I posted about them: Well, I mean, not much. I DID just write about them lol BUT they do have a show coming up in Greensboro, NC on the 11th, so if you're in the area, you should go. I know I would.



Also, since I have you here, ACOUSTIC VIDEOOOOO! :)


PS- Would you CHECK OUT that Power Rangers shirt?!

Austin Nivarel

http://www.purevolume.com/new/austinnivarel

If one wanted to visually represent the sound that is Austin Nivarel, they need to look no further than his past Facebook profile pictures.



Just look at it. He's happy, colorful, and just looks like one of the sweetest guys ever. Now, go liste to his music. Happy. Colorful. And Sweet. This boy is what I started my day with on Friday, and it led to not only a wonderful morning, but a wonderful day. (It should be noted that I am the furthest thing from a morning person you can get, so anything that can make me smile when I wake up is on to something.)

My first thought about this Wisconsin-onian (is that what they're called?) was that he was like a male version of Taylor Swift (minus the inability to sing live) which is why I greatly aprove of his cover of her song "Enchanted". His version is great, and he definitely did it justice. I actually think it's better than the original (I'm sure I sound like a T-swizzle hater, but I would just like to say that I'm not. I actually own all her albums. Just as an FYI.)

Basically, I guess what you need to know most from this post is that Austin Nivarel might be the most spirit uplifting music I have blogged about. If you just want something to make you smile and make your day just seem that much better, you should look into his stuff.

(I would also like to point out that with the exceptiong of percussion, which is played by Tony Wick, Austin plays all his own instruments :) Boy has some talent.)

Go Download: You can get can get is cover of "Encanted" and his song "Brightest Thing" for free here. Then, I suggest downloading One Day at a Time

Take The Day

http://www.facebook.com/wearetaketheday

The last thing I listened to on my laptop, was low. Which probably explains why the volume was all the way up on both my computer AND Youtube. So, when I clicked on Take The Day's "FTW" it's needless to say that my ears were assaulted with heavy guitar and crashing cymbals. Maybe assaulted isn't the best word, since it connotates something negative, something that this band, is far from.

Milwaukee claims this currently unsigned band, but honestly, I can't see them staying 1) in Milwaukee and 2) unsigned for long. With the idea of wanting to spread "positivity, passion and love" through their music, I can't say that they have failed. In fact, listening to them does remind me of my younger music days, rocking out to Simple Plan's "I'd Do Anything", The Ataris' with their cover of "Boy of Summer" and Bowling for Soup's "Girl All the Bad Guys Want". Whether that is what they're aiming for, I probably won't know, but needless to say, the put a smile on my face this fine November morning.

I found Take The Day because they liked a quote I posted on Tumblr, and I think that quote shows just what type of band these guys are, so I'm going to share it here as well.

What I feel most obligated to is sourcing inspiration and chasing it down and living inside of it and not obsessing over whether or nor this track is going to be on the radio or whether or not this album is going to be gold. Instead, [I’m] just trying to do things that are worth doing and leave me with a feeling like I’ve created something- and I didn’t create it for somebody else, but I CREATED something and I’m proud of it. -Andrew McMahon

So yeah, in a world filled with people making music just to get rich and famous, I feel that these boys have jumped into for the right reasons. And I definitely look forward to what they have in store for us.

(I'd also like to throw on out their that their logo is super cool, and they have badass taste in music. Facebook says we like pretty much all the same bands lol)

Go Download: "Won't Wait" off their EP City Lights & Summer Nights (Part One) on iTunes. **EDIT**: Tonight, at 8 CST, they'll be releasing a free track on Facebook, so go hit that up too, cuz nothing is better than good free music.

Young Guns

http://www.facebook.com/younggunsuk

What do I like best about Young Guns...

Honestly? I don't know. But, it's most likely the fact that they are producing some of the best rock sounds I have been able to find in a while. Not pop-rock. Not punk-rock. Straight up rock sound. And I love it.

They are an extremely hard working group of boys, especially Gustav Wood and Fraser Taylor, who are the only ones who have been a part of the band since their creation in 2003. Their debut album, All Our Kings Are Dead, was self-released. And not only was it self-released, but it was a self-release that reached enough people to help them sell out their shows.

AND, not only have they sold out their own headlining tours, but they've even supported Bon Jovi. Yeah. BON. JOVI. So, I feel justified in saying that this band has their shit together, and they are definitely making wonderful music.

Gustav's voice is one of my favorite's in the rock scene. It's just so... pleasant? Is that the word I want? It's.... befitting the genre. And it has this very pure quality to it. It's just really clear, and I like it a lot.

Also, I think it should be mentioned that when I saw Yellowcard, LP was wearing a Young Guns hoodie. I told him I was really freaking jealous cuz I love them and Sean was like "Yeah, they're amazing!" and then rubbed it in that they get to see them next month T.T

Anyway, the moral of that story is that Yellowcard thinks Young Guns is amazing too.

The unfortunate thing about Young Guns is you can't buy their album in America, probably because it IS self-released. I, for one, had to find it off of Mediafire. But, it should be noted that as soon as I CAN buy it, I will. Their next album, Bones, has a planned release date of Febuary 6, 2012. So fingers crossed so we Americans can get in on some Young Guns action, because we are SERIOUSLY deprived.

Go Download: Though you can't buy their full length, you can get their 2009 EP Mirrors on iTunes. (My personal favorite off of it is "The Weight of the World")





AMERICA WANTS YOUNG GUNS!

RadioDriveBy

http://www.facebook.com/radiodriveby

Let's face it, it was a terrible day for any new music to be discovered by me today. The stream of Marianas Trench's Ever After went live, and there were very few things that were gonna stop me from listening to anything other than that today.

That was until I had listened to the album three times and then checked my email and saw that I had a new twitter follower. And you guys know the philosophy. Give me a chance, and you get one in return. So I stopped what I was doing, and put RadioDriveBy on.

I think what I like best about this Arizona based band is that they "want to make your ears happy" and that's exactly what they did. They didn't try to sell me something other than upbeat, fun pop rock (and we all know how I feel about my pop rock).

Trent's voice is really interesting, and is always switching between familiar and completely unique. It intrigues me. However, he isn't the only member of the band, and Adam, Austin and David should be mentioned as their playing meshes so well together with each other as well as Trent.

I'd be lying if I said I hadn't been slightly bitter about the fact that I had to like this band in order to listen to their music, but I have seen in the error in my ways, because they are well worth the like. I'll be keeping my eyes on these boys. And I sincerely hope they'll be heading down to Texas (and by Texas, I mean Austin) sometime soon so I can enjoy them live :)

Check out their latest single, "Hope You Know" below!

Go Download: My personal favorite "Deny" off their single Nothin' But Better. ("Shine" is in a close second)

SPEAK

http://www.facebook.com/#!/hearSPEAKhere

One of my friends (The male half of Moonlight Social) suggested I give this Austin based band a listen. He actually went as far as to say that he thinks they'll be rather popular within a year. And I mean, at first I was like, that's kind of a tall order dontcha think? Lemme give them a listen first. So I hopped on over to their Facebook, and to say that I was a little shocked at the voice that came out of Troupe Gammage would be a gross understatement. I don't know what I was expecting per say, but that strong voice was not it. One blog described them as indie electro-pop and if we absolutely have to classify them, that is what I'd dub them as. Their beats are infectious in the same way that popular hits on the radio are today, but it sounds nothing like what we have been force fed by MTV. Margaret Moser of The Austin Chronicle mentioned that there is a new sound evolving here in Austin, and I believe that SPEAK is at the forefront of that movement. So do I think these boys will be famous within the year? I don't wanna jinx them or anything, but let's just say if I hear them in the near future on the radio, I wouldn't be shocked at all.

Go Download: My personal favorite is "Wars" . After you fall in love with that, buy their album on iTunes