< I'm the one on the right btw :p

Bands to look forward to in 2009, The UK

19-01-2009

1 Review(s)     

Lady GaGa

Yes! I’ve finally found a female artist, well in fact just an artist that where I am genuinely excited to listen to. Music is my life, and when a singer or band doesn’t live up to my expectations, it disappoints me. So around six months ago, I stumble across a little site called Perezhilton.com and read one of his blogs about a singer called Lady GaGa. Of course, I think “Who the heck is this then?” And funnily enough just a few months later the entire world is loving her.

After listening to the only one of her singles at the time called ‘Just Dance’, I could not stop singing it! I may be a pop fanatic but catchy songs don’t come easily to me so this was a rare occurance. Full of plenty of synthesisers and edgy drum beats, this has a rich full sound which will make you realise it’s not something you normally listen to but you love it anyway.

She has had several comparisons to Christina Aguilera, whom one journalist noted GaGa seemed to have copied her style. Ahem, time to do your research Mr Journalist, it was the other way around. But that’s neither here nor there……Of course she isn’t original, even more so since that eighties look she has is massive right now. She has an edgy arrogant air about her but don’t be put off by that, if anything it is more appealing.

As soon as I heard her debut album ‘The Fame’ I thought, Gwen Stefani, Robyn and a bit of Christina but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I loved it. I know that so many of us musical snobs will be wary of trying this album out judging by the first single and I’m not much of a risk taker. As soon as I heard ‘Poker Face’, 'Paparazzi’ and one to dance around in your bedroom to called 'Money Honey', i knew this would be an album I’d have in repeat for quite some time.

So if you are wondering whether or not to broaden your musical mind, then just go out and buy it, it is more than worth the money. And ten times better than any drivel by these ‘The’ bands…..

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Circo, Liverpool

14-01-2009

3 Review(s)     

Having heard Circo was the venue of choice for Beyonce and Solange Knowles' MTV Afterparty, I thought, if it's good enough the likes of them, why not try it out?

I'd read the odd bit of press about the Albert Docks latest venue and it's intriguing circus theme. My friends were slightly apprehensive (with their fear of clowns) but I couldn't wait to roll on up to the bar and see what they had to offer. It was fairly quiet, as I can imagine it would be for a week night but it didn't dampen the atmosphere. Quaint booths were lined up along the walls, additional seating areas are situated upstairs ( you have to walk up a beautiful staircase - i felt like i was in a film as i walked back down them, all the attention is on you! ) and in the restaurant.

The drinks menu had out mouths watering, offering Toffee Apple and Candyfloss cocktails. They were to die for! The prices ranged from £3 -ish to around £7 for a cocktail but you can't expect anything less from those type of bars.

It's good for a couple of drinks as well as a night out and although i can't promise it will be the greatest show on earth, i bet its different to the usual places you hang out!

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O2 Academy Liverpool, Liverpool

06-01-2009

3 Review(s)     

Taio Cruz Review - 18-11-08

Songwriter to singer-songwriter….did Taio Cruz make a good transition? Judging by the crowds reaction ; the answer is a resounding yes! He performed an albums worth of hits including the popular ‘Like a Star to the club hit ‘Come On Girl’. He even belted out an acoustic version of Snow Patrols ‘Chasing Cars’, always a favourite amongst live acts these days. For his encore he performed an excellent mix of Justin’s ‘Sexyback’ and Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’. Taio Cruz could do no wrong, the venue room even had to be upgraded due to exceptional ticket demand.

The band were on form and there seemed to be a great vibe on stage. The only downside was the over plugging of his album but other than that, Mr Cruz certainly raised the roof in Liverpool.

Fiona Ray

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Liverpool Echo Arena, Liverpool

06-01-2009

2 Review(s)     

Stereophonics Review – Liverpool Echo Arena – 8/12/08


There had been a fair bit of hype surrounding the ‘phonics return to Liverpool and even more so since they were playing at the Echo Arena. The place filled up slowly, warming to the Mancunian support act The Courteeners. I suppose you could assume that most of the crowd would be mature, the type that loved ‘real music’ but to my surprise there were quite a few in their teens! The crowd was more than ready by the time the lights went out one final time, the roars were immense and everyone was up from their seats!

Although I don’t go to a lot of ‘band’ gigs, I was very intrigued and thought that these Welsh rockers would pass the test. Like Louis Walshs’ comment about X Factor’s JLS; the phonics were like fed-ex, they always delivered! Starting off with ‘Vegas Two Times’, they sang through all of their hits from ‘Just Looking’ to ‘Bartender and the Thief’ (quite obvious with it being The Best Of tour, I know) but it was the most successful singles such as ‘Mr Writer’ and ‘Have A Nice Day’, that got the audience jumping for joy. It was great to see a band that loved to please their audience and in return give an even better performance song after song.

The highlight of the night for me however was how they managed to lull the audience with their version of ‘Handbags and the Gladrags’. It was beautiful but the tranquillity didn’t last for long as they launched into another fan favourite ‘Pick a Part That’s New’. They just didn’t stop until they had performed everything they had in them, finishing with ‘Dakota’. It was a shame to see the concert ending after almost two hours but one thing I know for sure ; if the ‘phonics ever decided to come back to Liverpool , they would be welcomed with open arms.


Fiona Ray,
MyVillage

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The Tavern Co, Liverpool

18-11-2008

4 Review(s)     

You can smell the tequila as soon as you walk through the door, very authentic! This is possibly one of the best restaurants in Liverpool! You are seated straight away and the staff are there whenever needed. The service is fantastic, you are fully informed and considering how busy it is, your orders are brought out in good time.

It offers a good range of mexican dishes and the portions are more than enough, you won't leave this restaurant hungry! It has everything from burgers and burritos to the highly recommended chicken fajitas. Most dishes come with a side of mexican rice beans and guacamole and they are absolutely delicious. If you just feel like a lunch time nibble, then the nachos are a must. They come plain, with chilli and chicken.

Another thing this restaurant should be proud of, is their margerita cocktail jugs! £15 may seem a little bit expensive but they are worth the price and you won't need to buy another!

The Tavern is great for an evening meal, whatever the occasion. You will leave feeling satisfied and full up for a week!

Fiona, MyVillage

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