I Luv Pop

Music Snobs

2007-06-09T20:28:00.000+10:30

I am so over music snobs. You know the type...everybody knows at least one, most of us know more than one.

They are the people who smirk at you when you tell them you like Britney Spears; the ones who shudder when you admit that 'Elephunk' is your favourite Black Eyed Peas album; the people who incessantly complain about commercial radio and the state of the music charts. I would like to alert these people to a fact that seem to elude them..

I DON'T CARE!!!!

I don't care if you don't like what I like; I don't care if what I like is looked down upon by you, or is something that you consider "inferior"; I don't care if it is "criminal" in your eyes to not want to listen to The Beatles/Led Zeppelin/The Clash/Bob Dylan, etc., etc, etc. in my spare time.

I think these people have missed the point. In all their complaining about the state of music these days they have forgotten that it is about what the individual gets out of it that matters. We listen to what we like because we identify with it, because it makes you feel something or identify with something.

Plus - why is your opinion more important than mine? Why do you know better? Who died and made you the music guru?

No amount of condescending comments, bullying or anything else will change what I enjoy.

Let's put an end to the waste of time that is the attempted re-education of the Pop Princess...news flash is that she doesn't want to "learn". I am happy liking what I like (and apparently so are hundreds and thousands of others who are buying similar titles to me, according to the charts).

Thank you very much.

Over and out.

APRA Award Winners

2007-06-09T18:47:00.000+10:30

2007 APRA Award Winners:

Song of the year:
'One Crowded Hour', performed by Augie March, written by Glenn Richards.

Songwriter of the year:
Andrew Stockdale, Myles Heskett, Christopher Ross (Wolfmother).

Breakthrough songwriter of the year:
Glenn Richards (Augie March).

Ted Albert Award For Outstanding Service to Australian Music:
Michael McMartin.

Most performed Australian work:
'Lift', performed by Shannon Noll, written by Adam Reily, Bryon Jones, Shannon Noll and Andrew Roachford.

Most performed Australian work overseas:
'Are You Gonna Be My Girl', performed by Jet, written by Nic Cester and Cameron Muncey.

Most performed foreign work:
'Feel Better' performed by Santana featuring Steven Tyler.

Most performed jazz work:
'Love Me For The Cool', performed and written by Mark Sholtez.

Most performed country work:
'Nothing At All', performed and written by Kasey Chambers.

Most performed dance work:
'Flaunt It', performed by TV Rock, written by Sean Berchik, Ivan Gough and Grant Smillie.

Most performed urban work:
'Get Up Outta The Dirt' performed by Butterfingers, written by Eddie Jacobson.

Most performed blues and roots work:
'Songbird', performed and written by Bernard Fanning.

I Am Finished With You-oooooo

2007-05-11T20:51:00.000+10:30

Does anyone else think that Avril Lavigne’s ‘Girlfriend’ was written with the intention of being the ‘Mickey’ of the naughties? It is sooo similar! She may as well have done the cheer leader clip to go with it – if you are going to rip off someone else’s idea, you may as well go the whole hog.

Silverchair at the Metro last week totally blew my mind. It was magic. The band, Daniel in particular, looked more comfortable than any of the previous times that I have seen them (which would sit at around 6 or so times, the first being for $12 on a Sunday afternoon at the Palace when I was around 13) – and seem to look more like they are enjoying it than ever before. Perhaps the seven-odd year hiatus was just what this band needed.

Although, with regards to the whole Paul Mac "thing", I wish they would either make him an official part of the band, or not. He is practically a permanent fixture anyway; why not just make it official??? Clearly he is Daniel’s source of inspiration, his muse – for want of a better term. I wonder how Ben and Chris feel – basically they are now a percussion section that is told what to do by Daniel and non-band member Paul Mac, surely if he was at least part of the band that would be easier to take. However, the band is still together, so they must be OK with it.

The 30 Seconds to Mars gig was in a league of its own. I can honestly say that I was speechless throughout. I have never seen a more perfectly executed, well though-out and completely emotionless performance in my life. Merely another role for Jared Leto to play, or so it would seem to the non-emo, over 14 year old members of the audience – of which there were only a handful of. To the majority though, it was approximately 1 hour (yes, the equivalent of $1.00 a minute) of heaven. Festival Hall resembled what I imagine a cult ritual may be like – with Mr. Leto at the helm, his disciples feeling thoroughly unworthy of his greatness. There was no attempts to pretend that the rest of the band was anything but added props (along with the Chinese screens, characters and tassels that decorated the stage). There was only one person on that stage that mattered - one person who was in the spot light (literally). Not what you would expect when seeing a band, I wouldn't have though. I guess I missed something – or maybe I am just getting old :o)

Pop Princess x

Missy does it again

2007-04-20T15:01:00.000+10:30

The word on the street is that Missy Higgins new album has been ready for some time – but she, and her management, felt that after the success of ‘Sound of White’ the Australian public needed sometime to miss her before a new album was on the market. This may or may not be true – but in light of what happened with Delta Goodrem- if that was their way of thinking – Good on them! A very clever move. The public are now more than ready – and practically salivating in anticipation of 'On a Clear Night'. So…was it worth the wait???

Missy Higgins 'On a Clear Night' is not completely 'Sound of White' Part 2 – but it is the logical direction for her to go following a 9 x Platinum album. It is removed from the sound of her first album, but not very far. There is less piano, and more guitar sounds for a start.

There are certainly tracks that stood out to me from the first listen, for different reasons – those being:- “Where I Stood” – A heart-breaking and honest track, her vocals are superb. This is a heavenly opening track; “Steer” - A gorgeously upbeat and thoroughly addictive, feel-good track. Let’s hope it debuts at #1 on the ARIA Charts this week; “Warm Whispers” – A creamy ballad that is satisfying from start until finish and will make you smile; “Angela” – This is one of the only songs on this album that I am not a fan of…I can’t put my finger on what I don’t like about it – I just don’t; “Peachy” – I am sure I heard Missy play this live at some stage? Perhaps on her tour with Ben Lee? I recognised it straight away. A slightly aggressive and angry side of Missy is exposed here – and it is brilliant!

In conclusion, "On a Clear Night" has a sound that may well win Missy some new fans, without being different enough to alienate her old ones. You go girl!!!

I’m off to see Paul Stanley (Kiss) tonight – and I can’t wait!!!

Pop Princess xo

Confused, Brighton

2007-04-12T12:18:00.000+10:30

Wow…someone likes my posts…

Printed in Herald Sun’s ‘Hit’ today:-

“Dear Hit,

Why is the word goddamn: removed from Fall Out Boy’s 'This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race'?

It was OK to hear the word in Panic at The Disco’s 'I Write Sins Not Tragedies' when they sang of “closing the goddamn door”.

Surely “goddamn” is less offensive than Pink’s ode to masturbation in 'U + Ur Hand' or Akon’s 'Smack That'?

Confused, Brighton”

Well, Confused – I am too; mostly as to why you didn’t at least source your own comparisons or change the order I listed them or ANYTHING!!!

Diet Coke & a Pizza Please :o)

2007-04-08T19:16:00.000+10:30

I didn’t ramble on nearly enough on my last blog post about Mika and the album ‘Life in Cartoon Motion’. It is brilliant, and apart from Silverchair’s ‘Young Modern’ (please see below), which you can’t really compare anyway – as they are so totally different, it is my favourite album at the moment.

It is so nice to hear such a HAPPY and blatantly POP album. My favourite song changes every time I listen to this album – but at this very second ‘Big Girl You Are Beautiful’ would have to take the cake (no pun intended). Mika will be here in June, I hope there is a show case or something – I would love to see how he goes live.

Another thing! RE: My last post and the weird Canberra/Panic at the Disco censorship…What is with the Fall Out Boy song? Why is “Haven’t you people ever heard of closing a God-damn door" not offensive, yet "This ain’t a scene, it’s a God-damn arms race" is??? Personally, I don’t find either offensive – but surely there should be some uniformity about what they will and will not sensor? The Black Eyed Peas had to change "Let’s Get Retarded" to "Let’s Get it Started" – but Pink can sing about "U & Ur Hand"; The Pussycat Dolls can sing about wanting someone to ‘Loosen up my buttons’ and Akon about wanting to "Smack That" – but this is all acceptable, just as long as you don’t say the word damn!?! Bitch seems to be alright some times and not others; as does arse/ass. It is so confusing!!! Can anyone clarify this for me?

Silverchair’s ‘Young Modern’ album is the most inspired and interesting thing that they have ever done. I adore it and discover something magical with every single listen. Much has been made of Daniel Johns taking the creative reins and collaborating with numerous artists over the years– each and every decision that led to the creation of this master piece was, in my opinion the correct one. I am pumped that the band is playing a smaller gig at The Metro to showcase this album – it will truly be a magical performance, I have no doubt.

‘Straight Lines’ is not a reflection of the entire album; accept in the sense that it is a different sound for the band – a theme which is frequent though out the entire album. John’s seems to have become a real man in the making of this album. He is looking amazing and trying new things with his voice – things that I believe take this band to a new level. Don’t get me wrong – you young angst-y John’s voice creeps in, as does the crooning lost soul sound of Diorama, particularly in "Those Theiving Birds" and "Reflections of a Sound" – but there is also so much more! I love the falsetta in 'Straight Lines' - sexy rawness of "Man Who Knew Too Much" and almost ranting on "If You Keep Loosing Sleep".

You can easily identify the influences of Paul Mac, The Presets and Luke Steele (Sleepy Jackson) in this album – and each has clearly provided John’s with the inspiration to record what may go down as one of the greatest albums of our time.

I can’t give a much better wrap than that!!!

Pop Princess xoxox

P.S. Missy Higgins ‘On a Clear Night’ will be my next review. I have only listened four times, and think I need to live with it a little longer before I write about it.

Why Don't You Like Me? Why Don't You Like Yourself?

2007-03-14T12:28:00.000+11:00

Too long since my last blog - I know, and I am sorry. Life seems to be getting busier, and time goes faster - the result is I seem to get less done :o)

I love Mika’s 'Grace Kelly’- so what is the album ‘Life In a Cartoon Motion’ like? Well, my best description is a gorgeous blend of Queen, The Darkness and Scissor Sisters; which may sound like an odd mix. The truth is, this albumin theory probably should’t work – but it does. I have read, and heard, some pretty scathing reviews for this album – throw them in the bin and don’t listen. Judge the album for yourself – I think it is brilliant!!!

Shattered that Take That were in Melbourne yesterday, and I didn't get to see them :o( They were so close, yet so far away. Hopefully the promo tour will go well and we will get them back here for a proper tour! The more nice things they say about Robbie - the sadder and more futile the bands break-up and subsequent media war between Williams and Barlow becomes, even10 years on. The band seem super confident that Robbie will rejoin Take That, in some capacity ,at some stage in the future -it will be interesting to see if they are right.

I was in Canberra for the long weekend. Yes, Canberra. Why? I have a very dear friend there. But that is beside the point....we were listening to the radio and the totally painful Panic at the Disco's 'I Write Sins, Not Tragedies' or whatever it is called came on - and Canberra radio stations cut out the God!!! So it says 'I chimed in with a haven't you people ever heard of closing a *blank* damn door'. If you are going to go to the extreme of taking God out, why leave the damn? Is damn not more offensive than God? Are either offensive? What is wrong with Canberra???

Which leads me to Lily Allen's latest (and justified) beef - this time with MTV. The Lil-sters new track is banned because it drops the f-bomb (which they can edit out) - MTV gave the explanation (allegedly) that the word is offensive, and not for children. MTV also made a reference to the f* word as causing children to grow up too quickly. Miss L has not refuted this, but pointed out that if MTV are programming for children perhaps the semi-clad Paris Hilton and Pussy Cat Dolls gyrating against anyone and anything is not the wisest of decisions...Fair call.

Pop Princess xo

Late Brit listing!

2007-02-22T21:22:00.000+11:00

Sorry...totally forgot to post this for the Brit Awards...

British male solo artist: James Morrison
Also nominated: Jarvis Cocker, Lemar, Paolo Nutini, Thom Yorke
British female solo artist: Amy Winehouse
Also nominated: Corinne Bailey Rae, Jamelia, Lily Allen, Nerina Pallot
British album: Arctic Monkeys - 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not'
Also nominated: Amy Winehouse - 'Back to Black', Lily Allen - 'Alright Still', Muse - 'Black Holes & Revelations', Snow Patrol - 'Eyes Open'
British group: Arctic Monkeys
Also nominated: Kasabian, Muse, Razorlight, Snow Patrol
British breakthrough act: The Fratellis
Also nominated: Corinne Bailey Rae, James Morrison, The Kooks, Lily Allen (Winner chosen by BBC Radio 1 listeners)
International breakthrough act: Orson
Also nominated: Gnarls Barkley, The Raconteurs, Ray Lamontagne, Wolfmother (Winner chosen by MTV viewers)
British live act: Muse
Also nominated: George Michael, Guillemots, Kasabian, Robbie Williams (Winner chosen by BBC Radio 2 listeners)
British single: Take That - 'Patience'
Also nominated: The Feeling - 'Fill My Little World', Razorlight - 'America', Snow Patrol - 'Chasing Cars', Will Young - 'All Time Love' (A live public vote will decide the winner on the night)
International male solo artist: Justin Timberlake
Also nominated: Beck, Bob Dylan, Damien Rice, Jack Johnson
International female solo artist: Nelly Furtado
Also nominated: Beyonce, Cat Power, Christina Aguilera, Pink
International group: The Killers
Also nominated: The Flaming Lips, Gnarls Barkley, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Scissor Sisters
International album: The Killers - 'Sam's Town'
Also nominated: Bob Dylan - 'Modern Times', Gnarls Barkley - 'St Elsewhere', Justin Timberlake - 'Future Sex/Love Sounds', Scissor Sisters - 'Ta-Dah'
Outstanding contribution to music: Oasis

Celebrity Obsession

2007-02-21T17:30:00.000+11:00

Best of lucky to Britney Spears, who has reportedly re-checked herself into rehab. This move follows on from the media frenzy after her bizarre head shaving incident.

Britney is just another addition to the growing list of celebrities cracking under the pressure of their own, and the public’s expectations, following on from amazing and inspirational careers. In the last few weeks Lindsay Lohan and Robbie Williams have also entered themselves into rehab for addictions of varying kinds – brought on by the pressures of their day to day existence.

The cynical side of us is quick to make remarks such as “what do they have to worry about” and “Gee, I wish my life was as horrible as theirs – full of money, fame and success”.

The reality is, however, that our ‘normal’ lives are something that these celebrities grow to crave. It is impossible for us to imagine what it is like having your every move judged on a world wide scale. It is impossible to know how it feels to never have a moment of privacy, and not be able to do ‘normal’ things like go shopping. We will never understand things like having our relationship break-ups as hot topics of conversation everywhere we go.

So are we to blame? Does out interest in these celebrities feed the media frenzy to get exclusives??? Quite possibly to some extend yes. However once these stars have the success and fortunes, they forfeit their right to privacy and a normal life. It goes with the job. The unfortunate thing is by the time they realize the consequences, and decide it is not for them – it is already too late.

The media is a celebrity’s best friend and worst enemy…and the stars can’t have it both ways.

Just my thoughts today!

Pop Princess xo

She's My Man

2007-02-13T20:45:00.000+11:00

The Scissor Sisters at Vodafone Arena were fantastic on Friday night. I was a little concerned about seeing them in such a big venue, after being lucky enough to see their intimate performance at the Prince of Wales for their last show.

Jake and Ana-Matronic are the perfect front duo. He has unstoppable, boundless, bouncy energy, and she has amazingly slinky, sexy moves. They compliment each other perfectly, vocally, in performance styles, and personality wise with their interaction with the crowd. You feel wrong standing still watching this band!

This is the type of shoe that you can go and enjoy, whether you are familiar with, or even like their music or not. Their version of ‘Candle in the Wind’ - Dedicated to Anna Nicole Smith - was sensational! The sets and lighting were show enough, even without Jake’s tiny glittered shorts! Has he been raiding Kylie’s wardrobe?

I haven’t had a chance to see any of the televised bits of the Grammys yet, but please enjoy (for your reading pleasure) an edited winners list below…Congratulation to Australia’s own Wolfmother on their win!!!

Grammy Winners – Highlights:-
Album of the Year: 'Taking the Long Way' Dixie Chicks
Record of the Year: 'Not Ready to Make Nice' Dixie Chicks
Song of the Year: 'Not Ready to Make Nice' Dixie Chicks
New Artist: Carrie Underwood
Female R&B Vocal Performance: 'Be Without You' Mary J Blige
Pop Vocal Album: 'Continuum' John Mayer
Country Album: 'Taking the Long Way' Dixie Chicks
Rap Album: 'Release Therapy' Ludacris
Rock Album: 'Stadium Arcadium' Red Hot Chili Peppers
R&B Album: 'The Breakthrough' Mary J Blige
Female Pop Vocal Performance: 'Ain't No Other Man' Christina Aguilera
Male Pop Vocal Performance: 'Waiting on the World to Change' John Mayer
Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal: 'My Humps' Black Eyed Peas
Rock Song: 'Dani California' Red Hot Chili Peppers
Solo Rock Vocal Performance: 'Someday Baby' Bob Dylan
Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal: 'Dani California' Red Hot Chili Peppers
Hard Rock Performance: 'Woman' Wolfmother
Metal Performance: 'Eyes of the Insane' Slayer
Alternative Music Album: 'St Elsewhere' Gnarls Barkley
Dance Recording: 'Sexy Back' Justin Timberlake and Timbaland
Electronic/Dance Album: 'Confessions on a Dance Floor' Madonna
Rap/Sung Collaboration: 'My Love' Justin Timberlake featuring TI
Rap Song: 'Money Maker' Christopher Bridges and Pharrell Williams (Ludacris featuring Pharrell)
Urban/Alternative Performance: 'Crazy' Gnarls Barkley
Male R&B Vocal Performance: 'Heaven' John Legend
R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals: 'Family Affair' (Sly and the Family Stone), John Legend, Joss Stone With Van Hunt
Contemporary R&B Album: 'B'Day' Beyonce
Country Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal: 'Not Ready to Make Nice' Dixie Chicks Short Form Music Video: 'Here It Goes Again' OK Go
Long Form Music Video: 'Wings for Wheels: The Making of Born to Run' Bruce Springsteen

Tit Bits:-
Take That are here in Australia for a Promotional tour in March – no word yet on if there will be a show case…fingers crossed!
The new Silverchair single ‘Straight Lines’ is their best yet – can’t wait for the release of 'Young Modern’ on March 31. Listen to the track on their My Space sight and see what you think… http://www.myspace.com/silverchair
I hope Tristan wins ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ on Sunday! Love him!!! It probably ended six months ago in America already.
I don’t care what anyone else thinks/says – I LOVE the Hinder album :o)

Pop Princess xoxox

My half-arsed Day Out

2007-02-05T23:00:00.000+11:00

Sooo, at the ripe old age of 26, I was feeling old and tired at the Big Day Out this year. The day seemed too long; too many kids in fairy wings, pajama pants or Australian flags (not because they are proud Aussies - but because they are rebels that were asked not to). I don't do drugs, and I wasn't interested in drinking - so I was one of probably, what 10 people who were actually there for the music???

Other than the Aussie bands/artists (all of whom I pretty much missed due to early or conflicting times/stages) - my only real interest was in The Killers. Thank God they did not disappoint. Shattered that I missed out on side show tickets. ONLY criticism was the absence of 'Uncle Johnny', other than that they were flawless. 'Bones', Mr. Brightside', 'Somebody Told Me' and 'Jenny Was a Friend of Mine' were particularly special.

Eskimo Joe, Jet, Sleepy Jackson, Evermore and Little Birdy were all impressive. You Am I were unreal. I found what I saw of Muse and Tool utterly boring and uninspiring. As much as I am not a fan, My Chemical Romance was better than both Muse and Tool put together.

Again, could be my newly found Nanna-ness, but I was appalled that when the singer from My Chemical Romance stopped performing to check that someone who fell in the mosh pit was alright - that I heard shouts of "poof" and"gee - that's rock n roll". Ummm, since when is someone hurting themselves, or dying (which has happened at a BDO, lets not forget). People are there to have fun, not get tramped on. I applaud the band for caring and being aware. If only Limp Bizkit has been as concerned...

I missed the lovely Miss. Lily Allen - but all was not lost as I went to the side show the following night. She was buggered, and it was obvious. But it was still a great gig. Met her briefly, for about 5 minutes, in which time she showed me her new tattoo and took her top off (she was bra-less). Not a shy girl!!!

So, will I BDO next year? Probably. Every year I was I will not go so early or stay so late; every year I say I might have next year off. But then I see the line up. I won;t make promises I can;t keep. If the line up is decent I will be there...and lets face it - the line up is always stellar.

Off to see Scissor Sisters strut their stuff on Friday night -c an;t wait. BRING IT ON!!!

Pop Princess xoxox

So, how did I go???

2007-01-27T17:49:00.000+11:00

Top 10:-

1 Augie March - 'One Crowded Hour '
2 Eskimo Joe - 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine'
3 Hilltop Hoods - 'The Hard Road'
4 Killers - 'When You Were Young'
5 Scissor Sisters - 'I Don't Feel Like Dancing'
6 Gnarls Barkley - 'Crazy'
7 Snow Patrol - 'Chasing Cars'
8 Gotye - 'Hearts A Mess '
9 Muse - 'Starlight'
10 Grates - '19-20-20 '

I picked Gnarls Barkley, Snow Patrol, The Killers, Scissor Sisters and Augie March – so I was half way there!!!
Lily Allen - 'Smile' and/or 'LDN' – scored well at # 15 & #35
Camille – came in at # 26
RHCP - 'Dani California’ - came in at #34
Youth Group - 'Forever Young' – came in at # 21

Top 20 Tips:-

11 Little Birdy - 'Come On Come On'
12 John Butler Trio - 'Funky Tonight'
13 My Chemical Romance - 'Welcome To The Black Parade'
14 OK GO - 'Here It Goes Again'
15 Lily Allen - 'Smile'
16 Peter Bjorn & John - 'Young Folks'
17 Grates - 'Science Is Golden'
18 Muse - 'Supermassive Black Hole'
19 Lupe Fiasco - 'Kick Push'
20 Regina Spektor - 'Fidelity'

Well, I got Lily, because I actually had her down for Top 10…I'll claim that one, because other than that Little Birdy was my only correct one. :o(
Bob Evans - 'Don't You Think it's Time' – secured the # 37 for this track & # 36 for ‘Nowhere Without You’. Go Bobby!!!
The Sleepy Jackson - 'God Lead Your Soul', 'Devil Was In My Yard' and 'I Understand What You Want (But I Just Don't Agree)' - Did not rate at all – devastating and criminal!!!
Angus & Julia Stone – Grabbed the # 43 spot for ‘Paper Aeroplane’ – watch out for these guys debut album this year – will be HUGE!!!

Beyond the Top 20:-

Something with Numbers - # 64; Sarah Blasko - # 79; Kate Miller-Heidke – Did not get in; Ben Harper - # 87, Jet - # 72 & # 76; Hot Chip - # 60; OK Go - # 14; My Chemical Romance - # 13.

So, my yearly wrap up of the Top 20...

1 Augie March - 'One Crowded Hour'
I am thrilled with this result. An awesome track, from an awesome album that was pretty much overlooked at the ARIA's, despite several nominations.
2 Eskimo Joe - 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine'
Got 'Single of the Year' at the ARIA's. You can;t win everything, and lets face it - # 2 is still a great result!
3 Hilltop Hoods - 'The Hard Road'
I am a little embarrassed that I didn't think of these guys - for some reason I thought this songs was in last years...I was wrong. Great track with a killer clip. If you get the chance to see these guys live DO IT!
4 Killers - 'When You Were Young'
I am tipping this band will be the highlight of my Big Day Out experience tomorrow - LOVING them!
5 Scissor Sisters - 'I Don't Feel Like Dancing'
Great track - great position. Bring on the concert in a few weeks :o)
6 Gnarls Barkley - 'Crazy'
If this track had not been out for so long it would have been a strong contender for the # 1 spot.
7 Snow Patrol - 'Chasing Cars'
Glad this band is doing so well at the moment (because they deserve it) - shattered that it is because of Grey's Anatomy.
8 Gotye - 'Hearts A Mess'
Sorry, don't know it...
9 Muse - 'Starlight'
Not a Muse fan, but this track is a corker. Looking forward to checking them out at the Big Day Out tomorrow.
10 Grates - '19-20-20'
This band supported the Arctic Monekeys tour to Australia. Lucky to have two songs rating so high - the poor old Monkeys got a little bit forgotten towards the business end of the countdown. Patriotism in the lead up to Australia Day maybe??? Another band that is fantastic live...boundless energy!
11 Little Birdy - 'Come On Come On'
Whoo Hoo! Well deserved from this kick ass band! Check out the new single 'Bodies', it rocks.
12 John Butler Trio - 'Funky Tonight'
So this song got to # 12 having only been out for 3 weeks!?! I didn't even know that it was eligible. Surely with those sort of votes it could have gone # 1 for next years if he had have held off on the release!
13 My Chemical Romance - 'Welcome To The Black Parade'
I don't do Emo, so I will not comment. I'd rather not when I don't know what I am talking about. Shocking hair cut though...
14 OK GO - 'Here It Goes Again'
Who would have thought a treadmill video would generate so much talk! Catchy track...but would it have got this high without the clip???
15 Lily Allen - 'Smile'
A little robbed, 'Smile' should have ranked higher :o(
16 Peter Bjorn & John - 'Young Folks'
This band is developing quite the underground following, will be interesting to see if it leads to any sort of main stream success...
17 Grates - 'Science Is Golden'
Please see comments at # 10.
18 Muse - 'Supermassive Black Hole'
Please see comments at # 9.
19 Lupe Fiasco - 'Kick Push'
Who? Huh?
20 Regina Spektor - 'Fidelity'
Album is selling really well. Described as a more alternative Norah Jones???

To view the complete listing for Triple J (JJJ) Hottest 100 go to:-

http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/hottest100/countdown/

Cheers,

Pop Princess xoxoxo

The Hottest 100 - Hot Australia Day tips!

2007-01-26T10:42:00.000+11:00

OK, so I am preparing myself for the traditional Aussie Day BBQ, complete with ice cold beers, plenty of sausages...and of course - JJJ's Hottest 100 countdown.

Have to post my tips now, before it starts! So, the below are my expert opinion on who will rate well. I will post the actual 100 later and see how wrong I got it! :o)

Top 10 Tips:
Lily Allen - 'Smile' and/or 'LDN'
Gnarls Barkley - 'Crazy'
Eskimo Joe - 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine' - if it doesn't win (because Aussie's usually do), it is a Top 3 certainty. 'Sarah' will get a look
Camille - Can't pronounce or spell the names of any of her songs! But think she will feature more than once in the 100
Snow Patrol - 'Chasing Cars' will go Top 5, they will have at least one or two other tracks in the count down. (I would like to take this opportunity to thank all Grey's Anatomy fans for ruining what was a magnificent song - by associating it directly with a lame TV show, inciting ludicrous air play from the major radio stations. I urge all of you guilty of this to listen to this album in its entirety, then go and buy 'Final Straw' and try to understand the success this band deserves for their genius - totally SEPARATE for Grey's bloody Anatomy!!!)
The Killers - 'When You Were Young' - hope that 'Uncle Johnny' and 'Bones' also rate.
Scissor Sisters - 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - best song they have done yet!!!
RHCP - 'Dani California'!
Arctic Monkeys - Should give the Top 5 a nudge, and will have multiple entries.
Augie March - 'One Crowded Hour', should do well today in general.
Youth Group - 'Forever Young' - If it is still eligible this year...

Top 20 Tips:
Bob Evans - 'Don't You Think it's Time'; another artist who is likely to have multiple appearances today.
Little Birdy - 'Come On, Come On' - Will feature more than once also.
The Sleepy Jackson - 'God Lead Your Soul' - 'Devil Was In My Yard' and 'I Understand What You Want (But I Just Don't Agree)' should also get a look in.
Angus & Julia Stone - Deserve to feature.

Beyond the Top 20:
Something with Numbers; Sarah Blasko; Kate Miller-Heidke; Ben Harper, Jet; Hot Chip; OK Go; My Chemical Romance.

Happy Australia Day!!!

Pop Princess xo

Concert cancellations, festivals and heroin

2007-01-12T17:06:00.000+11:00

Wow, sad moment for the punk rocker - with flowers in her hair. Frontier touring have released a statement saying that due to “Last minute promotional commitments in the UK ” Sandi Thom has cancelled her Australian tour. Is “last minute promotional commitments in the UK ” the new translation for “because she is a one hit wonder and no body cares, and no tickets were sold”??? Surely these promotional commitments could be rescheduled if this was the true reason…

It has been ages since I have been REALLY excited about a movie – but Pans Labyrinth looks amazing! I can’t wait. Trailer is here:

http://www.apple.com/trailers/picturehouse/panslabyrinth/trailer/

Pink has announced a 5th show for Melbourne! Keep 'em coming baby!!!

Can anyone explain to me why Pete Doherty is so famous? Is it one of those "Brit" things we don't get here- like Girls Aloud and Busted? I heard the new Babyshambles EP the other day and it is foul. A newspaper on the weekend was comparing him to John Lennon. Why? From my limited knowledge on the guy he has only released two albums (one with Babyshambles and one with The Libertines), neither of which were much. He is in the news every other minute for doing heroine or boning Kate Moss. Is that what being famous and talented is these days? Being a smaky and rooting a model???? Yawn.

The Big Day Out times and stages have been confirmed. Check them out here...

http://www.bigdayout.com/documents/File/time_melbourne.pdf

I have to honest and say I am a little dismayed at some of the time-tabling decisions. WHY would Lily Allen not be on a main stage, instead playing in The Boiler Room??? Not to mention the fact that she is on at 2:30! Her sold out side show at The Metro is proofthat this is a mistake!

As much as I enjoy Something for Kate and You Am I - how are they on at 5:15 and 7:00 and Evermore on at 1:30??? Even The Killers copped an early 5:30 time slot...suppose it is hard to please everyone - but some of these decisions seem down right bizarre!

Pop Princess xoxox

R.I.P the relationship of Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake. Get in their Britney!!!! You were awesome when you were with Justin....would he go back there now though? Only time will tell...

Happy New Year!!!

2007-01-06T17:05:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year to all!!! Welcome to 2007 - I think it is going to be a great one for music!!!

The data has been analyzed and ARIA has released the Top 100 selling singles and albums for 2006.

The cringe-worthy, but high selling ditty from Sandi Thom ‘I Wish I was a Punk Rocker (with flowers in my hair)' was officially the highest selling single of the year. How many punk rockers wore flowers in their hair anyway???

TV Rock’s ‘Flaunt It’ was a close second. Funny story about that one – apparently when Jesse McCartney was in Australia for the ARIAs and this song kept getting nominated, and winning; he was in awe. When he first heard the song he thought it was a joke…Unfortunately, no – it was serious! He then proceeded to add the line 'shake what your Mamma gave you' into at least one of his songs at each of his in-store performances in Sydney and Melbourne.

Damien Leith’s ‘Night of My Life’ did alright coming in at the # 11 spot, especially considering it was only released in December!

Nice to see that a quarter of the the Top 20 are Australian bands/artists. But why does the horrible Rhianna have two songs in the Top 20??? She can't sing!!!

List of Top 20 Selling Singles for 2006

1. 'I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair)' - Sandi Thom
2. 'Flaunt It' - TV Rock Feat. Seany B
3. 'Hips Don't Lie' - Shakira Feat. Wyclef Jean
4. 'SexyBack' - Justin Timberlake
5. 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters
6. 'This Time I Know It's For Real' - Young Divas
7. 'Forever Young' - Youth Group
8. 'Wasabi' - Lee Harding
9. 'Who Knew' - Pink
10. 'Promiscuous' - Nelly Furtado
11. 'Night Of My Life' - Damien Leith
12. 'Love Generation' - Bob Sinclar
13. 'SOS' - Rihanna
14. 'You Raise Me Up' - Westlife
15. 'Goodbye Me Lover' - James Blunt
16. 'Crazy' - Gnarls Barkley
17. 'Buttons' - The Pussycat Dolls feat. Snoop Dogg
18. 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine' - Eskimo Joe
19. 'Unfaithful' - Rihanna
20. 'Run It!' - Chris Brown

For a complete list of Singles:

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21811,21014185-2902,00.html

James Blunt’s ‘Back to Bedlam’ took the honors for highest selling album of the year. This surprised me, as I thought the majority of his sales would have been in 2005 on the back of 'Your Beautiful’. Obviously still a lot of fans buying throughout the year and following the success of ‘Goodbye My Lover’, which also scored the # 15 spot for highest selling single.

Nice to see Pink’s ‘I’m Not Dead’ sitting in the # 2 position – such a great album! I am sure this album will continue to sell for quite awhile yet, especially considering the great reaction from radio to next single ‘Nobody Knows’ and the tour in April.

Half of the Top 20 albums are Australian bands/artists! That is so fantastic! Again, Damien Leith and the 12th Man would have to be happy to sit at # 5 and # 9 – as both were released in December!

List of Top 20 Selling Albums for 2006

1. 'Back to Bedlam' - James Blunt
2. 'I'm Not Dead' - Pink
3. 'Reach Out: The Motown Record' - Human Nature
4. 'Wolfmother' - Wolfmother
5. 'The Winners Journey' - Damien Leith
6. 'Here Come the Drums' - Rogue Traders
7. 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine' - Eskimo Joe
8. 'Stadium Arcadium' - Red Hot Chili Peppers
9. 'Boned!' - The 12th Man
10. 'The Secret Life Of...' - The Veronicas
11. 'All The Right Reasons' - Nickelback
12. 'U218 Singles' - U2
13. 'Tea and Sympathy' - Bernard Fanning
14. 'Dancing In The Street: The Songs of Motown II' - Human Nature
15. 'Eyes Open' - Snow Patrol
16. 'Best Of' - Chris Isaak
17. 'PCD' - The Pussycat Dolls
18. 'See The Sun' - Pete Murray
19. 'Monkey Business' - Black Eyed Peas
20. 'Taking the Long Way' - Dixie Chicks

For a complete list of Albums:

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21811,21014183-2902,00.html

I’ve got my gig shoes on and ready to go – it is going to be a busy month or so!!!

Love Pop Princess xo

A very musical Christmas!

2006-12-28T10:21:00.000+11:00

Sooo, the final ARIA Chart of the year. How crap am I with my predictions!!!

1. Damien Leith – 'The Winners Journey'
I am ashamed that I did not see this coming. When I heard they were holding off and letting the Idol winner take their time and write some of their own material to record, I should have realised that they would have something up their sleeve for Christmas!

2. 12th Man – 'Boned'
I was spot on here! Personally, I don't find it funny. But then, I don't like cricket either...

3. U2 – '18 Singles'
I got this too.

4. Human Nature – 'Dancin’ In the Street: The Songs of Motown 2'
Wow, got this one too! 3 out of 20…not bad! People better stop buying this soon, or we will be inflicted with a 'Songs of Motown 3' next Christmas!

5. Pink – 'I’m Not Dead'
I underestimated Pink at #8…good on her! 4 Melbourne shows for her tour…again, good on her. No international acts bother to do that many shows here anymore.

6. Snow Patrol – 'Eyes Open'
Thought this would be #9…underestimated the band…or Grey’s Anatomy? Snow Patrol are touring here again in early 2007, on the back of the renewed album success.

7. Il Divo – 'Siempri'
Hmmmm – again, should have seen this coming…cereal Christmas release!

8. The Beatles – 'Love'
Not #5, but still, not a bad effort for an album that Noel Gallagher finds revolting!

9. Robbie Williams – 'Rudebox'
OK, I may have got a little excited with my #1 prediction – mind you, if the ‘And Through it All’ DVD sales were added to the ‘Rudebox’ sales - he would have gone close!

10. Young Divas – 'Young Divas'
OK – I didn’t think the public was this lame. I was wrong.

11. Eskimo Joe – 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine'
This is much better than my anticipated #18. A fantastic effort for the Aussies this Christmas chart!

12. Wolfmother – 'Wolfmother'
This was in my “may make it, but can’t fit it in” list…HUGE considering the album has been in the charts for 60 weeks!

13. Kylie – 'Ultimate Kylie'
#6 was my expectation, but I suppose, how many previous Greatest Hits has she had?

14. David Campbell – 'The Swing Sessions'
Picked it for #16, that’s only 2 spots off. Again,pleasestop buying this -there is no need for a 'Swing Sessions Part 2'!

15. Chris Isaak – 'The Best Of'
This was in my “may make it, but can’t fit it in” list...Am I the only one who fins his music severely depressing???

16. Gwen Stefani – 'The Sweet Escape'
My #7 prediction was before hearing the album. Having heard it, the #16 spot is a gift – it doesn’t deserve to be in the Top 40.

17. Il Divo – 'The Christmas Collection'
Please see above “Divo” comments….

18. The Killers – 'Sam’s Town'
#12 was ambitious – but watch it fly back into the Top 10 when they get here for the BDO. I have to say that I am loving the new single 'Bones'.

19. Justin Timberlake – 'Future Sex/Love Sounds'
Overestimated Justin (#14), but ‘My Love’ is getting plenty of air play and clip play!

20. Pussycat Dolls - 'PCD'
Had the chicks at number 19…just one off!

Albums I thought would make it – but didn’t!

10. Keith Urban – 'Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing'
Came in at #36. Not too bad for an album with no Promo and the artist in rehab. I thought that Keith-y may come and meet Nic here for Christmas…thus pushing it up the charts. That was not to be. But keep an eye on this album, with a new single, him out of rehab, not to mention in the country.

11. Jet – 'Shine On'
I cannot understand how this came in at # 41. If anyone can tell me why this amazing Australian album is not selling can you let me know please??? Are people just over it, and on to Wolfmother or what?

15. My Chemical Romance – 'The Black Parade'
This came in at # 28. After a strong couple of weeks, they are probably happy with holding Top 30 in a difficult Christmas chart.

17. Evanescence – 'Open the Door'
Evanescence grabbed the #23 spot, again, not bad at this time of year.

20. Guy Sebastian – 'Closer to the Sun'
I wonder how Guy feels, sitting at #29, with Damien sitting pretty at #1???

No Kylie - but what a show!

2006-12-20T20:29:00.000+11:00

So you have probably read quite a wide range of Robbie Williams reviews from his 'Close Encounters' tour of Australia, which concluded with two shows in Melbourne. I have read everything from glowing to quite scathing reports from journalists who went to this show. So...here is mine.

I will be honest from word go. I am biased where Robbie is concerned, but I will tell you the truth, through my eyes. Firstly, the 'Close Encounters' tour was not as good as his previous tour. But then, could it be? In my opinion, his last tour was hands down the best I have ever seen. He was clearly competing with himself, in the best concert ever stakes!
It was clear that he was tired, and glad for the tour to be ending. Having said that, it looked to me that he gave the final two shows in Melbourne all that he had to give.

I felt that Monday night's final show flowed much better than Sundays. Whether this is because it was the last show, or he was more rested or whatever, I don't know. But, as it has been mentioned to me by others, the crowd seemed more involved on Monday night, perhaps feeding him extra energy as the performer.

Robbie's set list was interesting. It is not so much the songs he chose, but more the order in which he performed them that seemed a little odd. Please see below...

Set List
Radio
Rock DJ
Trippin'
Monsoon
Sin Sin Sin
Millennium
Make Me Pure
Me and My Shadow - with Jonny Wilkes
Strong - with Jonny Wilkes
Staying Alive - Bee Gees verse - with Jonny Wilkes
Back For Good
Advertising Space
Come Undone/Walk on the Wild Side
Feel

Encore
Let Me Entertain You
Rudebox
Angels
Kids
She's The One

I respect that he didn't want to open with Let Me Entertain You - he is probably over it - it did liven up the crowd for the encore - but surely it would have worked better around Rock DJ??? The mood seemed very up and down. Kids was also an interesting choice to close with perhaps Angels and Kids should have been swapped around?

The swing track with Jonny Wilkes was cute - but that is when Jonny should have left. Two and a half songs + the whole "Aussie wave" and banter was just too much. Sorry to be harsh, but we didn't pay to see Jonny! I was very disappointed at his decision not to play Lovelight. As this is the current single! He did play it at the Perth show - but I think that was the only one.

So, having said all that. .The set and lighting was the best I have ever seen bar-none. The band and back-up singers and dancers were perfect. Robbie was his usual charismatic, cheeky, sexy and mischievous self. He won the audiences heart moment after moment. Lets face it - Robbie himself - regardless of what he is singing - is a showman and a show in his own right. I would go and watch him talk for 2 hours and leave happy.

Robbie had moments of utter brilliance. The only artists I have ever seen do better is the younger and less tired Robbie I saw two years ago. SO - Don't believe all you read. The journalists who wrote particularly scathing reviews were waiting for this tour not to live up to the last one. They did not review the show as it's own, but as a comparision to past ones...which is not fair. Had audience memebers NOT been to the last show - I am sure they would rate the 'Close Encounters' shows as oen of, if not the, best show they have ever seen. It truly was a wonderful concert!

The year that was...2006!

2006-12-14T16:33:00.000+11:00

So, it is that time of year again when all the newspapers and music publications do their 'Best of the Year' lists...so I thoughtI should get mine in too...

For any that Robbie is the answer, I will give another answer too...or it will just be boring for you to read...

BEST ALBUM OF THE YEAR:
Robbie Williams - 'Rudebox' / The Killers - 'Sam's Town'

MOST DISAPPOINTING ALBUM OF THE YEAR:
Can't limit it to one, I was disappointed by quite a few this year...

Fergie from BEP's (don't even know what it is called) - the 1st single washorrible- and fromt here it gets worse.

Keane - 'Under the Sea' - So disappointing after such a promising debut. It is just Blah! I was so disappointed with this album, that after the first listen I think I have only listened to it 3 or 4 times. The first album, 'Hopes & Fears', I listened to 3 or 4 times in the fist day!

Beyonce - 'B Day' - Other than the hits we've already had ('Check Up On It', 'Deja Vu' and 'Irreplaceable') it is - in a word - boring! zzzzzz

Live - 'Songs from Black Mountain' - This album is like a crappier versions of their worst/filler songs from previous albums. Mind you, on an earlier blogI said this wasbetter than what I thought it would be. Basically it would be a good, or even great, album from any other band, butI have come to expect a lot from these guys after all this time. Perhaps their last tour also jaded my views. I fear the magic may be gone.

Justin Timberlake- 'Love Future/Sex Sounds' - Controversial I know...I actually find the album quite boring. It is a very monotone. On first listen it is like one continuous, never ending track!

SONG OF THE YEAR:
Robbie Williams - 'Lovelight' - Yes, he is amazing. This song is killer, one of the best he has done in years.
Richard Ashcroft - 'Break the Night with Colour' - It is criminal this wasn't a hit here. I don't get it. There is nothing NOT to love about this magnificent song.
Scissor Sisters - 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin'- Their best song yet. See, Keane?....this is how a second album is done!
The Killers- 'When You Were Young' - Addictive. Please see above reference to Keane...
Santana/Steve Tyler - 'Just Feel Better'- Great song! The oldies have still got it (at times).
Beyonce - 'Check Up On It' - Try sitting still to this song...so catchy! Shame about the rest of the album.
Justin Timberlake - 'Sexy Back' - Yeah! Took a long time to grow on me, now I LOVE it. Again, shame about the rest of the album...
Christina Aguilera - 'Ain't No Other Man' - You go girl! :o) She kills it in this song. Amazing!
Gnarls Barkley - 'Crazy' - Over played...but fantastic...my tip for Triple J's Hottest 100 # 1 spot.
Bob Sinclar- 'Love Generation' - How happy is it?!? Gotta love ahappy, uplifting track like this.
Nelly Furtado - 'Promiscuous Boy' - Again, I can't sit still when this comes on....after the shock of her image/musical direction change this song really won me over.
Eskimo Joe- 'Black Fingernails,Red Wine' - Proud to be Aussie :o) Well deserved ARIA!

ARTIST OF THE YEAR:
Robbie Williams...hands down - check the Guinness book of records under concert ticket sales....(suffer to the Gallaghers...wankers!)

TOUR OF THE YEAR:
Calling it early...as it is not until Sunday & Monday...I know Robbie will be it :o)
Runners Up:-
Jet @ The Chapel
Bob Evans @ The Chapel
Sleepy Jackson @ Ormond Hall
Arctic Monkeys @The Palace
The Living End @ Festival Hall
Snow Patrol @ The Metro
Backstreet Boys @ Rod Laver...shut up - you don't know how long I had waited! :o)
Lily Allen @ St Jeromes- Despite the fact that I couldn't see!
The Vines @ The Corner

VIDEO OF THE YEAR:
Robbie Williams - 'Lovelight' - He looks so hot in this clip that it is wrong!
Sleepy Jackson - 'God Lead Your Soul'
RHCP - 'Dani California'
The Killers - 'Bones'

STORY OF THE YEAR:
Take That re-forming....so happy! I would never had dared to dream that this was possible!
Oh - and watching the saga that is Britney Spears life continue...2007 will be an interesting year for her. Please don't let her be the next Michael Jackson...

WHO SHOULD HAVE 'MADE IT,' BUT DIDN'T:
La Rocca
Faker
End of Fashion
The Kooks

MOST ANTICIPATED FOR 2007:
Angus & Julia Stone
Airbourne
New albums from Silverchair & Missy Higgins...bring it on!

FAVOURITE ALBUMS FOR THE YEAR:
Lily Allen - 'Alright Still'
Richard Ashcroft - 'Keys To The World'
Snow Patrol - 'Eyes Open'
Sleepy Jackson - 'Personality: One was a Spider, One was a Bird'
Jet- 'Shine On'
Bob Evans - 'Suburban Songbook'
Christina Aguilera - 'Back to Basics'
La Rocca- 'The Truth'
Pink - 'I'm Not Dead'
Scissor Sisters - 'Ta-Dah'

Ooops! She's doing it again!

2006-12-07T21:27:00.000+11:00

Just when I thought that Britney had seen the light; ditching K-Fed (now dubbed Fed-Ex by the media) and stepping out, looking as though she’s decided it is time to start showering again. Next thing you know she has a new bestie and party pal…Paris Hilton.

What is she thinking? You can’t surf the net without falling across a picture of her partying with Paris – clearly smashed and knicker-less, flashing her bits for the world to see. Now family services are concerned (again) that she is not caring for her two young sons. Poor Brit. Who would have thought the fresh-faced, school uninformed, virginal, teen sex symbol would become such a car crash. I mean, Paris Hilton? Surely not your first choice of companion when you are trying to ditch you white trailer trash image…and deny you have a sex tape that is just waiting to be leaked. Even anorexic, AA go-er Lindsay Lohan or boob-flashing, cereal party girl Tara Read would have more credibility!

If you believe what you read, Britney has her sights set on getting JT back too. Hmmm who would yopu prefer to take home to the family? Cameron Diaz, or Britney Spears? It will be interesting to see what 2007 holds for Miss. Spears. How long until there is a movie???

How funny is this…

Why am I here???

2006-11-24T22:43:00.000+11:00

What is worse than listening to Gwen Stefani’s horrible new song 'Wind Up'??? Watching the clip…http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga7hU-3-PbQ
Hate the song, hate the new look…so it is fair to say that I am not overly enthusiastic about the forthcoming album ‘Sweet Escape’. I really hope she proves he wrong and this whole ‘Wind Up’ this was just a case of shocking judgment.

To say that Miss Lily Allen is unhappy with NME’s decision to put Muse on the cover, rather than herself, would be a slight understatement. Read what she calls her “rant” on her blog here:- http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=36707169&blogID=196786235&MyToken=82487ef5-bbca-4852-94aa-6faba55ab87c

You go girl!!!!

OMG! The Scissor Sisters will be back here in February to tour. OK, so now we have Billy Joel, U2, Elton John Robbie, Kylie, The Killers, Lily Allen, Snow Patrol, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink AND The Scissor Sisters in the space of 6 months!!! How good is that?!? Now we just need Keane, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Keith Urban and I will be the happiest girl on earth!

My tips for the Christmas ARIA Top 20:-

1. Robbie Williams - Rudebox
2. The 12th Man - Boned
3. U2 – 18 Singles
4. Human Nature – Dancing In the Street: The Songs of Mowtown II
5. The Beatles – Love Album
6. Kylie – Ultimate Kylie
7. Gwen Stefani – Sweet Escape
8. Pink – I’m Not Dead
9. Snow Patrol – Eyes Open
10. Keith Urban – Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing.
11. Jet – Shine On
12. The Killers – Sam’s Town
13. The Scissor Sisters – Ta Dah!
14. Justin Timberlake – Future Sex/Love Sounds
15. My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade
16. David Campbell – The Swing Sessions
17. Evanescence – Open the Door
18. Eskimo Joe – Black Fingernails, Red Wine
19. The Pussycat Dolls - PCD
20. Guy Sebastian – Closer to the Sun

Others that may make it – but I couldn’t fit them in:

Wolfmother – Wolfmother
Chris Isaak – Best Of
Jamiroquai – High Times: The Singles 1992-2006
Billy Joel – The Piano Man, The Best of Billy Joel
Oasis – Stop the Clocks (Best Of)
Bernard Fanning – Tea and Sympathy

What I am questioning this week:-

Why are the public not getting behind Jet’s ‘Shine On’ yet?!? It sh*ts all over ‘Get Born’…Maybe second single ‘Rip it Up’ and their visit this week will remind people how amazing this band it…the album would make a great Christmas present :o)

What is with Kramer and his racist comments? Quite bizarre behavior.

Why did Shannon Noll and Natalie Bassingthwaite cover ‘Don’t Give Up’? It is wrong on so many different levels. I always try to stick up for Shannon, and I do not hide the fact that I am a big fan. The fact that this is a charity single for a great cause (Beyond Blue), does not excuse it. Terrible.

Why is Bob Evan’s ‘Suburban Songbook’ not about 50 times Platinum? This is a beautiful, magical album…by an Aussie! Buy it!!!

Why am I blogging right now? I am getting married tomorrow! You won’t hear from me for a couple of weeks…but don’t worry – I’ll be back!

Love Pop Princess xoxoxox

What we got?

2006-11-13T17:51:00.000+11:00

I am so excited about the Big Day Out that it is just not funny! The second line up announcement has been made…check out the complete line up here:

http://www.bigdayout.com/lineup/artists.php

Some great Aussie talent to do us proud in the shape of: Jet, The Sleepy Jackson, Little Birdy, Bob Evans, Eskimo Joe, John Butler and You Am I. Wow, it is good to be Australian…fair Perth/W.A. contingent there too – I wonder what is in the water over there and where I can get me some?!?

International-act wise, the festival is not exactly hard up for big names with the likes of Lily Allen and The Streets being added to the already huge line up compromising The Killers, Muse, My Chemical Romance, Tool and Violent Femmes. Whoo Hoo!

Speaking of shows, Jet has been confirmed to perform at the Make Poverty History show. They will join Sarah Blasko, Eskimo Joe, Hilltop Hoods, John Butler Trio and Paul Kelly in the show designed to “provide Australians with a voice in a global movement that stands in solidarity with the worlds poor”. Great cause, great line up…tickets are free – names are randomly selected from an SMS database – unfortunately my name was not chosen :o( But all is not lost, I believe the show will be telecast (delayed) on Channel 10 and shown on My Space.

How is Bono, joining Kylie on stage last night?!? It is not fair…Sydney people get everything. Oh well, rumor has it that Kylie will join Robbie on stage for his final show of his world tour…which is in MELBOURNE!!! Please let it be true! :o)

Props to Britney Spears for finally getting rid of K-Fed – shame it took her two pregnancies and a shattered reputation to face the fact that she was being used…but better late than never I suppose. Meanwhile, their alleged sex tape is said to have mysteriously been leaked on to the net following the announcement of their separation…anyone seen it? That should do wonders while she is trying to lose her trailer-trash, skanky image for the release of her new album in 2007.

It should be interesting to see who makes it to the Australian Idol final tonight, with Mark Holden stating on radio this morning that he would like Dean Geyer to win. Does the public agree??? I wonder how Jess and Damien (and their family and friends) felt hearing that Mark has a favorite? Surely that is not really very professional of him???

Pop Princess xo

P.S. Love to Rove and the Emmett family following the loss of beautiful, and ever-positive and smiling Belinda. It is such a tragic loss.

Over in a flash

2006-11-05T11:14:00.000+11:00

Axel Whitehead has “resigned” following his odd stunt (apparently to impress Johnny Knoxville) which involved flashing himself at the ARIA Awards. Is this man the stupidest in the world? He was handed a dream job on a silver platter following his less than impressive appearance as a contestant on the first series of Australian Idol. He was actually a really good host too, which is a shame. In a drunken moment, it is all over. Surely following Kelly Cavuoto’s sacking as a result of a drunken outburst at the Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards in 2004, he should know better? It will be interesting to see what he does now…he is allegedly taking some time off to concentrate on his music career – hmmm good luck with that one.

Have you heard Gwen Stefani’s new single ‘Wind Up’? This is officially the worst song of the year…yes, even WORSE than Fergie’s ‘London Bridge’! Scary, I know. If your ears have not been abused by it yet, here is a link from About.com. All care, no responsibility people!

http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/XJ&sdn=top40&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fboss.streamos.com%2Fwmedia%2Finterscope%2Fgwenstefani%2Fthesweetescape%2Faudio%2F96_winditup.asx

Well, U2 are in the country and Robbie is not far away. Big Day Out has confirmed: The Killers, Jet, The Sleepy Jackson, Evermore, Tool, Muse, Eskimo Joe, My Chemical Romance…with more artists to be announced. How good is Summer going to be?!?

We are all wishing Mr. Keith Urban a speedy recovery. Check out his new album ‘Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing’ – it’s a corker!

Prince is opening a club in Las Vegas called 3121, where he will perform a set that include his biggest hits every Friday and Saturday night! The $125 US entry fee would be well worth it, considering the venue only holds 1,500 people. Vegas get all the good stuff :o(

MTV Europe Music Award winners – condensed version (ones that we have heard of/care about):-

Best Male Act - Justin Timberlake
Best Female - Christine Aguilera
Best Group - Depeche Mode
Best Rock - The Killers
Best Hip Hop - Kanye West
Best Alternative - Muse
Best Song - Gnarls Barkley's 'Crazy'
Best R&B - Rihanna
Best Pop - Justin Timberlake
Best Album - Red Hot Chili Peppers - 'Stadium Arcadium'
Best Video - Justice Vs Simian - 'We Are Your Friends'
Future Sounds - Gnarls Barkley
UK & Ireland Act - The Kooks

Questions I am asking myself this week:-

What is Habbo?
Will 30 Seconds to Mars be the “the next big thing” in music?
Is Ryan Phippipe blind? Who would cheat on Reese Witherspoon???
Will.I.Am is said to be recording with Michael Jackson…why? He could work with anyone…
Does Kanye West have THE biggest ego in the world?
Michael Jackson is said to be appearing at the World Music Awards in London on November 15th…any special new surgery for the occasion?

Love Pop Princess xoxo

Aussie Music's Night of Nights

2006-10-31T09:02:00.000+11:00

All up the ARIAs were pretty impressive this year. No-one really “owned” the night; with Wolfmother picking up three awards, Bernard Fanning, Eskimo Joe and TV Rock picking up two and singles awards going to a variety of others…

There were some fantastic performances with Silverchair's Midnight Oil tribute; Bernard Fanning with Clare Bowditch and Kasey Chambers performing 'Watch Over Me' and Pete Murray with John Mayer's duet a highlight.

Embarrassments of the evening were also frequent. Phil Jamieson from Grinspoon’s hair; Katy Steele from Little Birdy’s outfit and slurring at the microphone; Axel Whitehead and Jabba in general (Axel allegedly got his bits out, as is facing losing his job at Video Hits). Oh dear!

Winners:

Best Breakthrough Album: Wolfmother
They did deserve this.

Best Breakthrough Single: Youth Group
Oops, I missed their nomination!

Best Urban Release: The Hill Top Hoods
Two awards! Good work guys!

Best Pop Release: The Veronicas
Shannon Noll was the best, but knew the skanks would get it.

Best Country Album: Troy Cassar-Daley
How sweet was Troy’s speech?!?! Seems like a great guy. Glad he won!

Best Independent Release: The Hill Top Hoods
Whooo Hoo! Good work fellahs!

Best Rock Album: Wolfmother
Easy pick…

Best Adult Contemporary Album: Bob Evens
Thrilled about this, thought Human Nature was a shoe in.

Best Music DVD: Eskimo Joe
Wow, thought that Kylie was a sure bet!

Best Dance Release: TV Rock feat. Seany B ‘Flaunt It’
Yeah, saw it coming…

Highest Selling Single: TV Rock feat. Seany B ‘Flaunt It’
How often does this song get played at the radio do you think?

Highest Selling Album: Human Nature
This is cringe worthy!

Best Group: Wolfmother
Yep, picked it.

Best Children’s Album: Wiggles
No surprises here.

Best Comedy Release: Lano & Woodley
Matt Tilley was robbed!

Best Blues & Roots Album: The Audreys
Sorry, who???

Best Female Artist: Clare Bowditch
Never saw this coming! Fantastic!

Best Male Artist: Bernard Fanning
Picked this one too…

Single of the Year: Eskimo Joe - 'Black Fingernails, Red Wine'
Again, missed their nomination!

Album of the Year: Bernard Fanning - 'Tea and Sympathy'
Well, got that very wrong…

All up, 2 of my picks picked up gongs; and 7 of my “likely to wins” did. 9 out of 20…not too bad hey? That is nearly half…

Love Pop Princess xo

We're Mad, innit?

2006-10-22T20:07:00.000+10:30

It is here.

It is now.

It is genius.

It is…..Robbie Williams – ‘Rudebox’:-

1. Rudebox:

Ok, you either love this song, or you hate it. After a little apprehension at first this song has completely won me over (in a very similar way to Trippin’). It is catchy, you can dance to it, it is cheeky and funny. It is gold.

2. Viva Life On Mars:

I think this song could really work at radio. It is completely inoffensive and is actually the one that reminds me most of Robbie’s previous albums album tracks. This would have fit on ‘Escapology’ easily.

3. Lovelight:

Hell yeah! Aside from the HOT clip, this is a great song. I have never heard the original, but love this version. It reminds me of George Michael; although I have heard others compare it to Prince and the Bee Gees.

4. King of the Bongo:

Again, I am not familiar with the original. I can see why people would enjoy this song, but it is not really my thing…I don’t skip it, but I don’t skip to it either. This track contains the first guest appearance by Miss Lily Allen.

5. She’s Madonna

This IS my thing. This song is one of the two the best on the album. Clever, catchy, 80’s inspired genius. I wonder what Madge thinks?

6. Keep On

This song is another that grows on me with every listen. The song features another appearance by Lily Allen. Did he think we didn’t realize that he “thinks with his dingaling”?!? You don;t need to convince us...

7. Good Doctor
This is the second of the two best tracks on the album. Foot tapping, self deprecating, brutally honest pop tied up in a nice bow with some horn sections. Adore it.

8. The Actor
“I am totally Strasburg”??? I see the point he was going for here, but again…just not my thing.

9. Never Touch That Switch
This is a bit electro, and a tad boring for me. This falls into the same basket as ‘The Actor”…It was pointed out to me that it would be great for remixing though.

10. Louise
This song is lovely. I would be interested to know what The Human League makes of this cover. Very sweet, again, would have fit on “Intensive Care” as an album track.

11. We're The Pet Shop Boys
Robbie + The Pet Shop Boys = Most gay men’s ultimate fantasy, I would assume? As I am not gay, or a man, I should not comment. Not my area of expertise :O)

12. Burslem Normals
Bit of a nothing song to me…but to have only one out of 17 is a pretty good effort! I feel strongly either way on all the other tracks.

13. Kiss Me
Take That? No – Robbie! You can see the choreographed dance moves in your mind as you hear this…it could be off “Take That – And Party”. Brilliant, never saw this one coming.

14. The 80's
This is another brutally honest Robbie moment. It is funny, but heartbreaking at the same time.

15. The 90's
Please see above. Wish it had have been released as originally intended…

16. Summertime
Sounds like it should, considering the title. I'll listen to it drinking a cocktail for sure!

Bonus Track – Dickhead:

Hmmm, well, I am still not quite sure what to make of this one…

Things I have been pondering:-

How can a band win? If your next album sounds like the last – then you are boring. If you change your style – then you are alienating your fans. So what do you do?

Why if you find some sort of level of fame, do you overnight become a “sell-out”? How do you avoid this tag?

Now, I know for a fact that I am not the only one who was horrified not only by Stephanie Macintosh’s live performance on The Footy Show grand final, but by the fact that her team would LET her perform live for the first time on live television. The question that I think has been ignored throughout all the criticism of the performance is WHY/HOW can anyone who has never performed live secure a record deal? Not only a record deal, but a 3 album deal?!? Did I miss something???

How can someone who talks in a language all of his own, be the Australian Idol judge that makes the most sense? Mark Holden knows his stuff…yes, he is a tool; yes, a translator is almost in order to understand exactly what he is trying to say. But compared to Marcia, who if a contestant dropped their pants and crapped on stage she would still approve – and respond with the stock-standard rotation of comments. I.E. “Thank you, thank you…that’s all I have to say”; “Let me ask you something, where you diggin’ it up there? Yes? I’ll leave it at that”; “I love what I do, and it makes me happy/warms my heart to watch a performer like you using their instrument/gift…thank you”; etc. Kyle? Ummm, he just waits to see what Mark and Marcia says, then takes it in turns to agree/disagree and throws in either: a flash of his black AMEX card (yes, we see you have one…we are all VERY impressed); a name drop (like his best mate Robbie Williams – I’m sorry, but I have complete faith that Robbie would have better taste); or a personal insult of some type (E.G. “mong”, “tic tac teeth” or “jelly belly”. This from the man marrying Popstar contestant, whatever her name is, you know, the one that inflicted that “Ohh Ahh I Lost My Bra” song on us all. Very concerning stuff…

Peace Out!

Pop Princess xo

I don't feel like dancin'

2006-10-14T01:56:00.000+10:30

The new Take That single is on the Pop justice website! Go and have a listen…

www.popjustice.com

Whoo Hoo!!! Can’t wait to hear the whole album, apparently ‘Beautiful World’ will be released in November…just in time for Christmas (mum, are you reading this? Yes please). It can’t be Gary Barlow doing the lead vocals, it's Howard isn’t it? If it is Gaz, his voice has changed heaps…if anyone knows where I can watch the clip PLEASE let me know!

So, Scissor Sisters ‘Ta-Dah’. Ta-Dah indeed! I am so impressed, I am going to say something controversial…I like this album better than their first. I also think that ‘Don’t Feel Like Dancing’ is their best single to date. I hope ‘She’s My Man’ is the next single. Whilst I loved ‘Scissor Sisters’ there where tracks I would skip, or I would listen to half the album, get over it and then go back and listen to the other half later…not the case this time around. I will be honest, I was a little bemused after my first listen, and it took me probably three before I was able to decide definitively that I loved it!

Same goes with The Killers ‘Sam’s Town’. I think I was expecting ‘Hot Fuss’ all over again, and that is not what this album is. The more I listen to this album, the fonder I become. ‘When You Where Young’ is killer, and it will go off when they are here for the Big Day Out! There is nothing that can match the magic of ‘Mr. Brightside’ on this album…yet. But, as I said, I am discovering something new from this album with each listen, and I am thoroughly enjoying doing so. I think ‘Uncle Johnny’ has the potential to be phenomenal live too. No wonder Brandon Flowers is so cocky…I would be too if I was that good.

I will never understand why some people choose to listen to the likes of James Blunt when they could be listening to James Morrison. ‘You Give Me Something’ led me to ‘Undiscovered’…and I am so glad it did. This guy has a beautiful voice that I can’t really describe, but it is sort of “creamy” for want of a more articulate way of explaining it…but not in a lame John Mayer sort of way…Hmmm not explaining it very well at all. Just go and get it, thank me later…The boys got soul.

Did you take my advice and show your love for the locals and pick up a copy of Jet’s ‘Shine On’??? If not, why? Are you crazy?!? You clearly have not heard ‘Shine On’, ‘Rip It Up’ or ‘Stand Up’ yet, or you would have bought 10 copies. Jet puts their own spin on riffs and vocals influenced one can only assume by The Beatles and/or Oasis…and damn it has worked a treat. The album shows versatility the band had not yet communicated on ‘Get Born’. It is different, but superbly and undeniably Jet. Don’t think that if ‘Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is’ is not your thing that you wont still adore the album…in my opinion that was a poor choice of first single. I am proud that Jet are Aussies, I am proud they are Victorian, and I am proud that they can produce this quality of music following the pressure they must have faced after the success of ‘Get Born’. They set their standards sky high…and they have delivered, and then some. Get it.

Must run…going to see Live with Shannon Noll as their support this weekend, and to say that I am excited is a major understatement!

Luv Pop Princess xoxox

Aussie Jet fans!

2006-10-01T13:13:00.000+10:30

'Shine On', Jet's phenomenal new album is available in stores now! What are you waiting for??? Go out and support Aussie music and get yourself a copy (or several copies)...Bloody awesome!

Pop Princess xo

Get well soon Robbie!!!

2006-09-25T18:59:00.000+10:30

Sad news for Asia with Robbie Williams canceling his shows there citing exhaustion as the cause…it has since been revealed that he is receiving treatment for depression in London. Of course all my love goes out to Robbie, I hope he has a speedy recovery. Hopefully he will still feel up to his Australian dates (fingers crossed), although your health does have to come first…so whilst I would be very disappointed if he didn’t make it here, it is far more upsetting to know that he isn’t well.

I must admit that after watching the ‘Close Encounters’ tour on television the other week, I was not overly surprised by the news that he is struggling. He just didn’t seem himself on stage, there was a spark missing, and a strong sense that he was going through the motions, while wishing he was somewhere else…

Meanwhile, I am wondering what all the Beyonce-hating is about at the moment??? Read about it in this article from The Bosh:

http://thebosh.com/archives/2006/09/beyonce_knowles_sparks_controversy.php

Is it just me, or have her comments been taken completely out of context??? I didn’t get the impression that she was saying her music is only for black people; more that she wasn’t making music specifically to cater to white people (being that she is black, so she does black music, and is staying true to herself, etc.). Am I wrong? IS there a hidden message I am missing? A 70% drop in sales for 'B'Day'? Maybe becasue it has been out for a few weeks now and it is a time of strong releases???

So, the ARIA nominees has been announced…Interesting to see that despite his un-deniable chart success, Shannon Noll has missed out again on a nomination for Best Male…What gives?

My picks feature a *, likely winners feature a #

Album of the Year
Augie March: Moo, You Bloody Choir
Bernard Fanning: Tea and Sympathy
Eskimo Joe: Black Fingernails, Red Wine
Wolfmother: Wolfmother *#

Single of the Year
Augie March: One Crowded Hour
Bernard Fanning: Watch Over Me
Wolfmother: Mind's Eye #
Youth Group: Forever Young*

Best Group
Augie March
Eskimo Joe*
Rogue Traders
The Living End*
Wolfmother #

Best Male Artist
Bernard Fanning #
Ben Lee
Bob Evans *
Dan Kelly
Pete Murray

Best Female Artist
Clare Bowditch
Holly Throsby
Jade MacRae
Jen Cloher
Kasey Chambers *#

Best Adult Contemporary Album
Bob Evans: Suburban Songbook *
Human Nature: Reach Out - The Motown Record #
Tex, Don and Charlie: All is Forgiven
The Whitlams: Little Cloud
Various Artists: She Will Have Her Way - The Songs of Tim and Neil Finn *

Best Blues and Roots Album
Bernard Fanning: Tea and Sympathy #
Lior: Doorways of my Mind
The Audreys: Between Last Night and Us
The Flood: The Late Late Show
Xavier Rudd: Food in the Belly*

Best Children's Album
Hi-5: Wish Upon A Star*
Justine Clarke: I Like To Sing!
The Fairies: Fairy Magic
The Hooley Dooleys: Smile
The Wiggles: Racing To The Rainbow #

Best Comedy Release
Carl Barron: Carl Barron, Whatever Comes Next DVD
Lano and Woodley: Sing Songs
Matt Tilley: Cereal Pest*#
The Shambles: The Shambles, Best of Series One and Two

Best Country Album
Adam Brand: What A Life
Anne Kirkpatrick: Showman's Daughter
Catherine Britt: Too Far Gone
Lee Kernaghan: The New Bush #
Troy Casser-Daley: Brighter Day*

Best Dance Release
Dirty South: Dirty South EP
Paul Mac: Panic Room*
Sneaky Sound System: I Love It
The Presets: Beams
TV Rock featuring Seany B: Flaunt It #

Best Independent Release
Ben Lee: We're All In This Together
Gotye: Like Drawing Blood
Hilltop Hoods: The Hard Road*#
John Butler Trio: Live at St Gallen
Lior: Doorways to my Mind

Best Music DVD
Hilltop Hoods: The Calling Live
Eskimo Joe: Eskimo Joe - The DVD
Kylie Minogue: Showgirl - The Greatest Hits Tour #
Missy Higgins: If You Tell Me Yours, I'll Tell You Mine *
The Go-Betweens: That Striped Sunlight Sound

Best Pop Release
Ben Lee: Into the Dark
Josh Pyke: Feeding the Wolves
Rogue Traders: Here Come the Drums
Shannon Noll: Lift*
The Veronicas: The Secret Life Of ...#

Best Rock Album
Augie March: Moo, You Bloody Choir
Eskimo Joe: Black Fingernails, Red Wine
The Living End: State of Emergency *
Wolfmother: Wolfmother #
You Am I: Convicts

Best Urban Release
Bliss N Eso: Up Jumped The Boogie
Hilltop Hoods: The Hard Road #
Jade MacRae: Jade MacRae
Phrase: Talk With Force*
Weapon X and Ken Hell: Sneakerpimpin Ain't Easy

Breakthrough Artist - Album
Hilltop Hoods: The Hard Road
Rogue Traders: Here Come the Drums*
The Grates: Gravity Won't Get You High
The Veronicas: The Secret Life Of ...
Wolfmother: Wolfmother #

Breakthrough Artist - Single
Gyroscope: Fast Girl
Hilltop Hoods: Clown Prince
Sneaky Sound System: I Love It
TV Rock featuring Seany B: Flaunt it #
Starky: Hey Bang Bang*

Highest Selling Australian Album
Bernard Fanning: Tea and Sympathy #
Human Nature: Reach Out - The Motown Album
Pete Murray: See the Sun
Rogue Traders: Here Come the Drums

Bring on Keith Urban's performance!!!

Luv Pop Princess xo
The Veronicas: The Secret Life Of ...*

More gigs!

2006-09-17T13:55:00.000+10:30

Ok, so once again I have found myself in a midst of a heap of awesome gigs, which I am only just now having time to write to you all about. Is it just me, or is everybody flat out at work at the moment, and really tired? I don’t know if it is the weather or what, but everyone I speak to is really busy and exhausted. Thankfully I love my job, and being tired doesn’t make me love it any less. I know not everyone is that lucky…

So first “cab off the rank” in my week of fantastic live music is the one and only Sleepy Jackson. I could rave about this band until the cows come home, but that would be very boring for the readers, and I think it is pretty clear from past posts how much love and respect I have for this band. Nothing to do with the fact that I have a crush on Luke Steele…really :o) No, all jokes aside though, the thing I love most about this band is when I am talking to someone who hasn’t heard them before and they ask “who are they like”? My answer? “There is no-one like The Sleepy Jackson, they do not sound like anyone” It is true.

I went to see this sublimely unique band at The Corner, which is one of my favourite venues to see live music, but this was not the place to see this band. Having only seen them a few months ago at Ormond Hall, The Corner lacked the atmosphere to compliment this bands complicated musical arrangements. The Corner is the perfect place to see a rock band, but the Sleepies are not a mere rock band. You could feel, or even become part of their music at Ormond Hall, and this was not the case at The Corner. Perhaps the Ormond Hall gig was just so good that I will not be satisfied seeing them play anywhere without the grandeur of that particular venue?

The following night I returned to The Corner to see a band that is perfect to play there. This is a band I have seen many times live, and who have never particularly blown me away. To paint a picture, I was wildly hung over from the night before and the thought of returning to the same venue to hear a band I have found to bearable (at best) in a live show, while trying to fight the urge to vomit because my head was throbbing so much was not the most appealing of prospects, when all I wanted to do was go to bed and have a longggg sleep until I felt human again. After much inner turmoil, I decided to go along for the first couple of songs and then make a quiet escape early.

As The Vines took the stage there was an energy I have not seen from them before. From word go this band was tight, loud, excited and sounding better than they have ever sounded before. Craig Nicholls was actually interacting with the crowd, and seemed to be very much enjoying doing so. This was not the same band I saw stumble blindly through their own tracks at The Forum a while back. This was a confident band, enjoying what they were doing, and enjoying doing it with each other. And the crowd? Wow, they were appreciative! This is a band that has been on top, lost everything, and appears to have come out fighting with a new found contentment with what they are doing. It was a beautiful thing to see. Needless to say, I didn’t sneak out after a couple of songs…I stayed for the entire gig. Granted, I didn’t feel quite up to another drink, but I enjoyed the gig so much my headache went away and I was singing and rocking with the rest of the crowd.

Wednesday night saw me, once again return to The Corner. I am sure the bar tenders now recognize me and think I am homeless and head there at nights because I have nothing else to do! There are very few similarities between The Sleepy Jackson and Luke’s sisters band Little Birdy. One major similarity that is undeniable is that both Luke and Katy are amazing front persons for their bands, and they leave you mesmerized when you are watching them on stage. I loved Little Birdy’s debut ‘Big Big Love’ and was thrilled to be able to come and see the band perform some of their new material from their album ‘Hollywood’ (in stores October 14 people, go and get it!). My fave tracks are ‘Come On, Come On’ and ‘Bodies’, but they were all fantastic live. I can’t wait to sit down and have a few good listens to the album. I was hoping that my favourite Little Birdy song ‘Baby Blue’ may have featured on this album, but unfortunately it didn’t, they didn’t sing it live either :o( However their version of ‘Six Months on a Leaky Boat’ went down a treat with the audience, and this track is a B-side on the ‘Come On, Come On’ single.

Does anyone else find Brian Molko really attractive in some sort of odd way? Or is that just a strange me thing? He is sexy on stage; no really I think he is! Loving the shaved head, suits him heaps. Now, enough of what he looked like the band and their performance… Placebo played brilliantly and the crowd loved it. My problem? They made some really odd set list decisions, in my opinion. There was nothing wrong with their performance, but there where a few too many of the new songs. Don’t get me wrong, the tour is to promote ‘Meds’, the latest album but fans still want to hear their favourite songs from previous albums. Sure, ‘Every You Every Me’, ‘Special K’ and ‘The Bitter End’ featured, but the absence of such important songs like ‘This Picture’, ‘Taste In Men’ and in particular ‘Pure Morning’, where devastating. Perhaps they are sick of playing them? Perhaps because they played them last time they didn’t feel the need? Whatever the reason, no matter how well the band played, without those songs I left the venue feeling ripped off. Again, maybe my problem is that last time I saw the band (at The Palace a couple of years ago) it was in my top 10 gigs of all time. Maybe when you see a band and they are that good, you shouldn’t go and see them next time, as they are unlikely to be able to live up to your expectations a second time around?

Nah...that can’t be right. There are performers and bands I have seen more times than I can remember, and they always blow me away. Examples? The Living End, Live, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and the master himself.

Speaking of the master, Aussie readers don’t forget Robbie Williams ‘Close Encounters’ is on Channel 10 at 9:00 pm tonight. Bring it on baby!!!

Pop Princess xoxoxo

P.S. Be my friend on My Space! http://www.myspace.com/i_luv_pop

RIP Steve Irwin

2006-09-08T17:12:00.000+10:30

It has been a really sad week in Australia. First, the loss of the amazingly Australian and inspirational Steve Irwin; then today’s shock death of racing champion Peter Brock. Both deaths will be felt immensely, both in Australia, and around the world. Both of these men were an inspiration to millions.

People are only just coming to terms with the loss of Steve Irwin. The Peter Brock news is so new that people are still in shock...I know nothing about motorsports, but everyone (even those of us who HATE the sport) knows who Peter Brock is, and what he has meant to the sport. Much love to their families.

On to happier things. Can I just say that Christina’s ‘Back to Basics’ is easily the best album I have heard this year? I love it. “Understand” is my fave. You go girl! Can’t wait to read reviews about the new tour…and perhaps get to witness it for myself if she return to our shores.

So, I got Outkast’s ‘Idlewild’, and am a little unsure about it (however,I wasunsure about Justin’s ‘Sexy Back’ when I first heard it too. Now I have lived with it for awhile I think it is killer). I am thinking that maybe you might need to see the film to appreciate the songs??? No idea when (or if) it is being released in Australia. Would love to see the film though…their clips are always sensational, so I doubt the movie would be anything but. Plus, I can think of worse things to look at for two hours than Andre 3000 :o)

New releases I am yet to hear…but am excited about hearing are: Beyonce, Audioslave, Jet, Little Birdy, Scissor Sisters, The Killers. Oh…and of course Mr. Robbie Williams! We are in for a very musical Christmas!

My recommendation for this month is to listen to La Rocca’s ‘The Truth’ album. “Sketches of a Twenty-something life” is reason enough to buy it! It is not surprising they got to tour with the likes of Jet, The Vines & Death In Vegas overseas. Bring them here for Big Day Out someone!!!!

Bad news, the PCD’s are looking for a new member…which means there will be another album. Which, in turn, means another catchy song that I can’t get out of my head, that at first I love, but after a few weeks despise, because I can’t go 2 seconds without hearing it. Good news? They are going to have a TV show to find’s replacement. Should make for some good reality TV viewing…

How good is the Ok Go ‘Here it Goes Again’ clip?!? Check it out here….

http://www.musichead.com.au/site/artist.asp?actID=134288

Does anyone else HATE Fergie’s ‘London Bridge’?

Pop Princess xo

Me & the stars

2006-08-28T18:29:00.000+10:30

The ARIA Hall of Fame event was held for the second time as a stand alone function on Wednesday, August 16 at Melbourne’s breath-taking Plaza Ballroom. It was a magical night; from the red carpet entrance, to the stunning table settings - complete with dimly lit candles placed in mystical, multi-coloured glass holders; the cocktail listing featuring such flavours as the “Daddy Rock” and the “Angry Rose”; the photographers, the artists, the industry greats...and then others, like myself.

There was magic in the air. Such local International stars as Toni Collette and Hugh Jackman added a glamorous, Hollywood-esk component to the local crowd. All where there to honour the industry greats, who were to be inducted into the 2006 ARIA Hall of Fame.

Daddy Cool – Inducted by Tim Finn
Helen Reddy – Inducted by Toni Collette
Lobby Loyde – Inducted by Billy Thorpe
Rose Tattoo – Inducted by Sarah McLeod
The Divinyls – Inducted by Hugh Jackman (who was introduced by Natalie Bassingthwaite)
Icehouse – Inducted by Tim Freedman

Jet’s performance of “We Can’t Be Beaten” in tribute to Rose Tattoo was easily the stand-out moment of the night. Even Angry Anderson approved, and he "doesn't usually like other people singing Rose Tattoo songs".

Although, another highlight was The Divinyls acceptance speech(s). They were also enjoyable...because they were sooo wrong!

Whilst not a huge Daddy Cool fan, to be sitting within meters of them performing “Eagle Rock” was pretty special. I was watching Australia's musical masters at their best...and whilst each generation has its own heroes, itis easy to acknowledge why these guys are considered legends to an older generation.

I was disappointed that Icehouse didn’t play “Electric Blue” or “Obsession”, but perhaps that is because I am a little younger than the rest of the crowd was??? I lovwed that they bought Ian Moss out to play with them. Mossey is a legend!!! :o)

A special mention needs to be made about Chrissie Amphlette’s legs…it is wrong for a woman of that age to have legs as good as she does! Lucky, lucky lady. I wouldn't dream of wearing a dress that short, but she pulled it off better than half of today's stars would have. RESPECT.

Rose Tattoo must have arrived just in time, after my fiance had just been watching them in Germany at the Wacken Festival only nights before. Talk about endurance!

It was an amazing night and I am thrilled to have been able to be a part of it.

Pop Princess xoxox

It's all about the music!

2006-08-11T15:18:00.000+10:30

So much good stuff going on at the moment I haven’t had time to blog! I have a pretty good excuse, I’ve been to see the Arctic Monkey’s, Bob Evans and Lily Allen in the space of a week or so. Each of them was amazing, but in very different ways...

I was impressed by the Arctic Monkey’s and their “no frills” approach. They came out, played the tracks, and left. No encore, very little small talk, no fancy props or tricky lighting, just the band and their songs. The crowd also seemed pleased with this approach, it is fair to say the boys would be welcomed back with open arms, should they wish to return in the near future.

Bob Evans, at the Spanish Club was lovely. As a former Jebediah fan (back in the day), it is nice to see Mr. Mitchell taking a more mature, and for want of a better word…musical, approach to his music. The songs are just beautiful. I love ‘Surburban Song Book’ and you should all go out and buy it!

Lily Allen…what can I say accept, debut - #7 on the ARIA chart, played to 200 excited fans, whilst another 1,000-odd waited in the freezing cold on the off chance that they may be able to sneak in to catch a glimpse of the UK’s latest pop sensation during her show case in Melbourne. She rocks! She also has collaborated with a legend recently…watch this space for news…

I’ve been listening to the new Robbie Williams album, over and over again trying to figure out which are my favourite tracks (at the moment I’m probably going to have to say “She’s Madonna”, “Viva Life on Mars” & “Kiss Me", but I change my mind with each listen). The album is now likely to be released in October, which is really now that far away now!

I’ve been adoring the new Jet single, which you have no doubt heard by now. The boys are back, better than ever? Will let you know after I hear some of the new stuff live on Tuesday night…

Gotta run,

Luv Pop Princess xoxox

Shakin' the Rudebox!

2006-07-27T15:15:00.000+10:30

I love Snow Patrol, but I especially love them live. I swear since seeing them in 2004, my expectations for live music performances has risen. They were sensational at The Metro on Tuesday night. Their music has such power and depth, it is amazing. It is just a shame I couldn’t understand a bloody thing they were saying in between songs…I think I caught something about wanting people to “Take their clothes off” and a bit of a rant about how they have heard it is so warm here, but every time they come it is freezing. Just a wild guess, but they may be because they tend to come in the depths of our Winter!

My preyers were answered and they played the sublime “Chasing Cars” (which is tipped to be the next single). As expected, “Run” was another highlight, with the whole venue singing along to this under-rated anthem. “All That I Have” rocked, and showed another, poppier, light hearted side to this band. I can’t fault the gig. I loved every second of it.

To further improve my mood this week would be tough, as “Rudebox” also went to radio this week. How infectious is it! I must admit, I was a little surprised when I heard Robbie was going to do a dance album, surprised and just a tad nervous. I guess I expected if he was going to shift in styles, it may have been more towards the rock side of things. But, never the less, “Rudebox” is in a league of its own, I can honestly say it is quite unlike anything I have heard before. What do you liken or compare it to? I know I am extremely biased where Robbie is concerned, but I think it is a smash! It is also a fantastic contrast to his work on “Intensive Care” and proves that he is far more than a one trick Pop pony. Respect!

Oh, and just a side point. Does anyone else melt just a little when he says “Are we going to have sex?” I know he is not asking me directly…but it does something to me! Whoa!

Pop Justice (popjustice.com) has a 30 second teaser of the new Scissor Sisters single “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’,” more of the good stuff. It’s a shame Melbourne didn’t gig this week whilst they were in the country for Splendour, but rumour has it the band will tour here before Christmas…and if not are looking at the Big Day Out. Bring on the new album “Tah-Dah"! Jake and Ana's interview on Rove was one of the better ones I have seen on the show.

Pop Justice also has Justin’s “Sexy Back” clip, and that crap song of Fergie’s clip too. Great website!

Til next we meet….

Pop Princess xo

P.S. Camilla to win BB'06!

P.P.S Am I the only person in the world that thought that Marissa’s death on The OC was lame and a total let down?

P.P.P.S Check out Lily Allen! More info to follow...

Christmas in July

2006-07-14T17:34:00.000+10:30

It is that time of year…with albums being pencilled in for release for Christmas (I know it is July, but believe me, it is on all the record labels minds already) we will have a listening feast of new tunes to enjoy from high profile artists over the next couple of months.

Christina Aguilera ‘Ain’t No Other Man’ is front runner for a place in my Top 5 for singles of the year. Aside from the fact that the song is hot; I am loving the fact that she is over her “skank” phase and going for a bit of “sexiness with class” for the film clip. The song is fun to dance to, and that gal has a set of lungs on her…meaning she can really sing. Can’t wait for the album.

Kasey Chambers ‘Nothing at All’ is a little less country than what fans have come to expect from her in the past. Is this a problem? Hell no! In fact, this may be the track that sees Kasey welcome some new, younger fans into her already well established fan base. The clip is bright, colourful and playful, and the song is very sweet and grows on you with each listen.

Justin Timberlake ‘Sexy Back’ is a troubling one for me. I can’t decide how I feel about it. It is not at all I was expecting. You cannot even tell it is JT on the vocals. The jury is still out for me on this, I don’t hate it…but I don’t love it yet. It is one of those songs I need to live with for awhile before I discover my true feeling for it. I have been humming it all day though…which is a good sign early.

Fergie (BEP’s) ‘London Bridges’ can not be described any better than as a major let down. A one word description hmm…disaster springs to mind. Could you have a more hyped release, or a better set up than being in the Peas??? What is this crap? Is she trying to be hard-core? didn't Jo-Ho teach her that swearing in a song does not automatically give it "cred". Get a life.

Janet (and Nelly) ‘Call on Me’ is a fine pop song. But that is it. It is fine. Maybe it would be better than fine if we hadn’t already had ‘Dilemma’ from Nelly and Kelly and numerous pop anthems from the very lovely Miss. Jackson. The problem is that we know what these artists are capable of, and they can do better. It is not a bad song, but it is far from their best. Cruisey beats - check…breathy vocals – check…sexy clip – not sure yet. It will sell, but it is a bit long winded and, dare I say, boring?

Beyonce ‘Deja vu’ – B and Jay-Z have done it again. Another contender for the Top 5 for the best of 2006 by Pop Princess. It is not ‘Crazy in Love’ – but it is nearly as good. Get up and shake your booty…no way you can sit still when this little baby comes on. Love it, love them. Respect.

We should be hearing something before the end of the year from Silverchair and Jet too, on the local front.

Undercover (www.undercover.com.au) have reported that Tim Burton will direct the music video for ‘Bone’, the planned third single from The Killers new album ‘Sam’s Town’. At least Tim Burton will have plenty of time to work on ideas, as the first single is yet to be released.

Oh and has anyone seen the Rude Box activity going on with You Tube??? Shake ya Rude Box people…you’ll be glad you have soon. www.rudebox74.com

That’s it for now…keep blogging!

Pop Princess xo

X&Y...where is the Z?

2006-07-03T11:24:00.000+10:30

Is Australia the first country to have Big Brother housemates evicted for alleged sexual assault? It isn’t really the exciting type of “world first” that the network would be after is it? Having not seen the incident, I can’t really fairly comment on the issue. But, if the reports of what happened are true (and there is no way of being sure), it does appear to be a prank that went too far. This is not excusing what they did. If two of my male friends did that to me, I would be pretty upset about it. However, I don’t think they meant any harm, by it. This certainly does not excuse their actions though, and evicting them was the only decent option available. Certainly been an interesting series of BB, and with all the controversy surrounding it in recent years, you wouldn’t be a fool to put your money on it being the last.

What is with Nelly Furtado’s new single 'Promiscuous'? She has done a Jewel; gone from an amazingly talented singer, who performs songs of substance with grace, and a subtle sexiness; to gyrating tramp, singing disposable songs. Don’t get me wrong, the song is not bad. It is just that there is so much in the market already that is similar, the Nelly Furtado that produced such glorious songs as 'Like a Bird' and 'Try' surely doesn’t need to delve into this genre. Leave this sort of song to The Pussycat Dolls or Rhianna…bring back the Nelly Furtado of old. I preferred her kooky hip hop; reggae-type tunes and soaring ballads far more than this average couple of minutes, which seems somehow below her.

I went to see Kisschasy on Saturday night. Gee they pulled a crowd, The Corner Hotel was rocking! I don’t really understand why these boys are not bigger than what they are. All you can really put it down to, is that there was a lot of similar music released around the same time as their debut ‘United Paper People' (E.G. End of Fashion, Faker, etc.) They put on an energy-fuled performance and genuinely appeared to be enjoying themselves, despite having played a gig the previous two nights before, and another under 18’s show earlier the same day). Their follow-up album will be very interesting, they are only young, and I think we are yet to see the best that they have to offer.

Last night I went to see Coldplay. I have now seen this band three times, and they were three very different shows. The first was at Festival Hall when ‘Parachutes’ had just been released, and was one of my favourite gigs of all time. The second was the ‘Rush of Blood’ tour. Last night’s ‘X&Y’ show was impressive, however the set list left a little bit to be desired. I did not enjoy the bands cover of 'Can’t Get You Out of My Head’, although I thought the shout out to Kylie was sweet. Highlights for me where ‘In My Place’ and ‘Fix You’, both of which appeared in the encore. It is a shame the band decided not to play ‘Shiver’, but at least we did get to hear ‘Trouble’ live. ‘Yellow’ was played third song in, a good move to get the crowd really pumping. The songs from ‘X&Y’ are fantastic live…but perhaps just a little bit too long. Perhaps the fact that ‘X&Y’ is my least favourite Coldplay album influences my enjoyment of the show. Don’t get me wrong, they were amazing, and did all the right things. The current tracks just don’t get me like the older ones do.

The next album may see a new Coldplay, as it has been hinted by the band that they plan to take their music in a different direction next time around. Why not? They have conquered the world now; you can do whatever you want when you are that big. They seem poised to go down as one of the greatest bands of our time, and it seems to be about time for them to take a risk or two.

Peace out,

Pop Princess xoxox

Never Gone...until this week

2006-06-30T13:17:00.000+10:30

So we have lost a Backstreet Boy…there is always one member of a boy band that decides to leave. Abs from Five, Robbie from Take That, Justin from N*Sync, Brian from Westlife…and now Kevin from the Backstreet Boys.

The below is posted on the official website www.backstreetboys.com

“Earlier this year, after much soul searching, Kevin Richardson came to us and told us that he had decided to leave the group and pursue other interests. He gave his blessing to continue the music without him.We have no intention of replacing Kevin, and the door will always be open for him to return to the Backstreet Boys. We wish him the all the best in his future endeavors.This weekend we are returning to the studio to begin the follow-up to Never Gone, and will see you later this year with a new album.”Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell and AJ McLeanStatement from Kevin Richardson“After 13 years of what can only be described as a dream come true, I have decided that it is time to leave the Backstreet Boys. It was a very tough decision for me but one that was necessary in order to move on with the next chapter of my life. Howard, Brian, Alex and Nick will always be my little brothers and have my utmost love and support. I would like to thank the Backstreet fans for all the beautiful memories we have shared together and look forward to including you in the next phase of my life. I wish my brothers continued success and look forward to their new album.”Kevin

More next week….

Pop Princess xo

Busy bee...yep, that's me!

2006-06-20T17:11:00.000+10:30

Billboard has reported that Justin Timberlake will release 'Sexy Back’ the first single from his forthcoming album ‘Future Sex/Love Sounds’ (do you think it's a double???) to radio on July 7. Hopefully radio here will jump on it pretty quickly…like they did with Christina Aguilera’s ‘Ain’t No Other Man’, which rocks by the way.

It was also reported that Audioslave will release ‘Revelations’, their third album, in September. Let’s hope it improves on the luke-warm response ‘Out of Exile’ got in Australia the year before last. Expectations have probably lowered somewhat, they had a lot to live up to after their self-titled debut, and the buying public have delivered their verdict by…well…not buying.

Snow Patrol’s ‘Eye’s Open’ is an album that I have been both excited and terrified to hear at the same time. Terrified because 'Final Straw’ is now one of my favourite albums of all time, and had changed the way I listen to music, and what I have come to expect of a live gig. I’ve been excited, for the same reasons as above. It is with delight that I say that my worry was wasted. ‘Eye’s Open’ is as spine-tingling, delicate and powerful as ‘Final Straw’. PLEASE let them do ‘Chasing Cars’ in the side shows for Splendour. That song gives me chills. It is the ‘Run’ of the album, the anthem.

And while we are talking Splendour and said show…why are the Scissor Sisters not doing one here??? Their Prince of Wales gig sold out last time, and there is no shortage of fans! Ripped off.

Vibed about the upcoming release from…Janet Jackson - ‘Twenty Years Old’, it should be interesting, as ‘Damita Jo’ was not my cup of tea at all. She lost me a bit there…but I still have faith that at least one Jackson can still cut it. I guess we will have to wait and see. I heard a snippet of the single, and it sounds a little boring and very Mariah, but then I only had one listen.

I have gigs coming out of my ears at the moment. I went to see the very lovely Holly Throsby on Sunday night. Check her out if you like Sarah Blasko, Clare Bowditch and the like…you will thanks me! Got the amazing Sleepy Jackson this weekend and Kisschasy and Coldplay the next, followed by You Am I at The Forum and Snow Patrol at the Metro…feeling very spoilt!

If you wanna be a My Space buddy go to http://www.myspace.com/i_luv_pop

Luv Pop Princess

Close Encounters...of the Williams kind

2006-06-06T20:19:00.000+10:30

Robbie Williams 'Close Encounters' tour sold out in Melbourne and Sydney today in under half an hour! Melbourne will host the show that will signal the end of the world tour. I feel truly blessed and honoured to be going to that show, we are so lucky!!! It is bound to be a corker. I wonder who will be the support? So happy to have paid me $50 to be an www.robbiewilliams.com inner sanctum member now...to get tickets early was worth it alone, without the t-shirt or blog access etc.

The Scissor Sisters are releasing the follow up to their critically acclaimed first self-titled album in September. 'Ta-dah' contains some tracks already being featured in the groups live shows. As I missed out on Splendour tickets, really hoping they announce some side shows soon! 'Ta-Dah' is also said to contain a duet with Elton John and Bryan Ferry!!!

Last night was the 2006 APRA Music Awards. Congratulations to Ben Lee for nabbing Song of the Year and Most Performed Australian Work! Also great to see gongs going to Wolfmother and the Rogue Traders!!!

The winners:-

Songwriter of the Year: Bernard Fanning

Breakthrough Songwriter: Wolfmother (Ted Albert)

Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music: Bill Armstrong

Song of The Year: Ben Lee - Catch My Disease

Most Performed Australian Work: Ben Lee - Catch My Disease

Most Performed Australian Work Overseas: Jet - Are You Gonna Be My Girl

Most Performed Dance Work: Rogue Traders - Way To Go

Most Performed Urban Work: Guy Sebastian - Oh Oh

Most Performed Country Work: Kasey Chambers - Pony

Most Performed Blues and Roots Work: The John Butler Trio - Somethings Gotta Give

Most Performed Jazz Work: The Necks - Mosquito

Most Performed Foreign Work: Rob Thomas - Lonely No More

Chili's makin' me smile!

2006-05-31T18:08:00.001+10:30

The Living End would have to be one of THE most under-rated bands of all time! I had the pleasure of seeing this tight outfit the other week, (I believe it was around the twelfth time I have seen them) and as always they were energetic and impressive!!! The tracks from ‘State of Emergency’ went down a treat live. I can't pick a highlight, the whole damn thing was great!There has been lots of talk that this album marks the bands second coming, my question is where did they go and when??? It is not a second coming, just the band reaching another level in their career, a level they should have reached with every album. They are living legends and should have more kudos from the media and the public.

On another note, I adore the new RHCP’s album, disk one is the stand out for me! Fav tracks are ‘Charlie’, ‘Especially in Michigan’ and ‘Dani California’. I have heard whispers that they may return to Oz to headline next years BDO…that would be AWESOME news if it happens. It has to be noted that Anthony Kedis is back to his hottest as well…loving the hair ;o)

Went to see Ben Harper a few weeks back now and was very impressed. You have to admire anyone that can make you feel like you are the only person in Rod Laver Arena. His voice is hypnotising, and his band are amazing. I much preferred his tracks live than on CD…got a lot more out of them live. I guess that is the way songs are meant to be.

Hanging to hear the new Keane, Snow Patrol and Donovan Frankenreiter albums...havn't had a chance as yet. Will let you know my thoughts next time...lets hope they are all even half the quality of their most recent releases!!!

I have decided if things don't work out with my fiance or Robbie Williams I may be forced to marry Luke Steele from The Sleepy Jackson. How good is 'God Lead Your Soul'??? The album is a killer. Let's hope they get the chart debut that they deserve...

I am trying to figure out how to use my new ipod and set up a My Space page...I am so not down with all this technology, and I am at the age that I should be! Where do people learn how to do all this stuff??? For example, how the hell do you get music to play on your My Space page??? This has been keeping me from many important tasks...

Short one again, as I am in the middle of exams (and obsessed with Big Brother and don’t want to miss anything important, oh and the My Space thing....and the new ipod)!

Luv Pop Princess xoxo

Killing me softly

2006-05-12T20:27:00.000+10:30

What makes you like a song? Is it the lyrics? The catchiness of “the hook”? The overall message? The sound in general? It is about how complicated or “different” it is to other things?

I had an interesting conversation about this the other day. The guy I was talking to particularly liked a song and its lyrics, a song (much to his dismay) that I found painfully boring. The sound in general did nothing for me, and the lyrics left me cold. Yet we were listening to the same song…

We concluded it comes down to HOW you listen to it. I am not a musician, I cannot read music, I do not play an instrument and I am tone deaf. When I listen to a song, I do not break it down into parts; I hear it is a whole.

My friend, however, IS a musician and can play an instrument. He finds the pop music I enjoy boring, and thinks it all sounds the same. The basic drum beats, the same-y guitar sounds, the vocals.

He likened it to watching a movie after you have studied film; you will never watch a movie the same way.

I am glad I don’t play and instrument, or read music, or have a singing voice…because if it ruins my pop it is not worth it.

Some of the most beautiful lyrics can be found in pop songs though….if you look/listen closely.

If you read the below lyrics as poetry, you would be hard pressed not to be moved.

What day is it?
And in what month?
This clock never seemed so aliveI can't keep up and I can't back down
I've been losing so much time
Cause it's you and me and all of the people with nothing to do
Nothing to loseAnd it's you and me and all of the people
And I don't know why, I can't keep my eyes off of you

All of the things that I want to say just aren't coming out right
I'm tripping on wordsYou've got my head spinningI
don't know where to go from here
There's something about you nowI can't quite figure out
Everything she does is beautiful
Everything she does is right

What an amazing expression of finding “the one” for you in a world of possibilities!

My friend assures me it’s all or nothing
I am not worried- I am not overly concerned
My friend implores me for one time only,
Make an exception.
I am not worried

Wrap her up in a package of lies
Send her off to a coconut island
I am not worried - I am not overly concerned
With the status of my emotions
Oh, she says, were changing.
But were always changing

It does not bother me to say this isn’t love
Because if you don’t want to talk about it then it isn’t love
And I guess I’m going to have to live that
But, I’m sure there’s something in a shade of gray
Or something in betweenAnd I can always change my name if that’s what you mean

My friend assures me it’s all or nothing`
But I am not really worriedI am not overly concerned
You try to tell your self the things you try tell your self to make
Yourself forget
To make your self forget
I am not worried

If it’s love she said, then were gonna have to think about the consequences
She can’t stop shaking and I can t stop touching her and.....
This time when kindness falls like rain
It washes her away and Anna begins to change her mind
These seconds when I’m shaking leave me shuddering for days she says.
And I’m not ready for this sort of thing

But I’m not gonna break
And I’m not going to worry about it anymore
’m not gonna bend. and I’m not gonna break andI’m not gonna worry about it anymore
It seems like I should say as long as this is love...
But it’s not all that easy so maybe I should just
Snap her up in a butterfly net-
Pin her down on a photograph album
I am not worried
I’ve done this sort of thing before

But then I start to think about the consequences
Because I don’t get no sleep in a quiet room and...

The time when kindness falls like rain
It washes me away and Anna begins change my mind
And every time she sneezes I believe it’s loveAnd oh lord....
I’m not ready for this sort of thing

She s talking in her sleep-it s keeping me awakeAnd Anna begins to toss and turn
And every word is nonsense but I understand it and
Oh lord. I m not ready for this sort of thing

Her kindness bangs a gong
It’s moving me along and Anna begins to fade away
It s chasing me away. she disappears, and oh lord I’m not ready for this sort of thing

The uncertainty to accept love when you find it; being swept away by it and then having it leave you. Spine tingling. “Every time she sneezes I believe it’s love” and “every word is nonsense, but I understand” are two of my favourite lines to appear in a song EVER.

Come now baby
Stay in bed, don't think that it's lazy
Get ourselves another god
Don't let them tell us there isn't one (isn't one)

Stay, sweet honey
Life's so fast, ya know it ain't funny
Get ourselves another god
Don't let them tell us there isn't one (isn't one)

Like we are just skinCan you beholdKnow beauty within
Know beauty inside your body
You don't love any body
Why do lovers
Choose others
We circle, entwine one-another
In that mask that we wear with each other
Oh my god how I looked in that mirrorI looked in a hollow picture
It was something I could frame

That's right, sweet-heart
Life's tough now, life can be hard
Don't blame me for these pressures in life
Don't blame me for this sacrifice (sacrifice)

Ok, sweet-heart
Take your time, I know lovers they part
Time slows when you're in love
And time moves so fast when it's gettin' on (gettin' on)

Cos we are just skin
Can you behold
I know beauty within
Know beauty inside my body
I don't love any body
Why do lovers choose others
To mirror their pain, yeah
Slow down stranger
ou know that you're in danger
These demons have got their own names, yeah
Ready for you to lay it on

In a word…wow.

And finally these…

You were my rainbow
You coloured my life
But sure as rain will come again
You faded out of sight
You disappeared as discreetly as you arrived
And continue to break me
Behind my care-free attitude and pride
Your pure nature shattered my dreams
And enchanted me wholly, if only you could see

As the rain returns
I search for you
A mass of colour
Emerging from the dreary blue
But you are no-where to be found
And searching does no good
And as I gaze, stranded on the ground
I realize I wished for more than I should
For you belong high in the sky
Unattainable
And as I dream of you from a far
I should have known I was replaceable

Last, but not least...

You are my marijuana
You are my drug
You are that constant craving
The one I cannot shrug
I say that I don’t need you
I say I’m not addicted
Just one more hit, I need
And then I will not see you

I have this painful wanting
An unbelievable yearning
Baby only you
Can extinguish this unforgivable yearning

I need to feel you in my veins
Feel you flowing through my blood stream
Only then I feel no pain
And let go of all this hurting

I can’t handle the withdrawals
Such immense and stabbing pain
Continual inner-turmoil
No sun behind the rain

I cling to this good feeling
As brief as it may be
A flicker of joy
Enveloped by gloom
Not worth it in reality….

Pop Princess xoxox

Music makes the world go round

2006-05-02T14:55:00.000+10:30

It has been a long time! I have been extremely busy with work and uni, so apologies for the recent lack of blogging….

First of all, have to comment on The Rolling Stones gig…Wow; I hope I am that full of energy when I reach their age! I have to be honest and admit that I am not a massive Stones fan, but I was very excited about this gig…I mean, it’s the Stones. Every music lover has to experience them live, and who knows how many more times they will hit our shores? It certainly was an experience, and worth going just for the moveable stage! For those who were not there, the stage was moved mid-concert from one end of the arena, to the other so all fans got to be close to their idols. A nice touch I thought…Fav songs for me were “Start Me Up”, “Sympathy for the Devil” and "Pain It Black". Hats off to Airbourne, who blew the crowd away whist they were waiting for the Grandfather’s of rock to emerge. Bring on the debut release!

I had the pleasure of going to see Nickelback on Friday night. Rod Laver Arena was packed and the crowd was vibed! Chad Kroeger is a fantastic front man, and quite a spunk despite his “ugly Paddle-pop lion” image. He knows how to work an audience, and handle a guitar. The best sing-a-long moments were “How You Remind Me”; “Figured You Out” and “Photograph”. The pyros were magnificent too!

Korn played at Vodafone Arena the following night, and failed o impress me quite as much. I could deal with the lead singer getting oxygen after every song (though it does seem odd, how old would he be?); but the distorted and virtually un-hearable vocals where down right annoying. At one point mid-song the whole sound went off completely for a couple of minutes. I know none of this is really the bands fault, but it is disappointing. It was, however, worth going to this gig to hear the final 3 or so songs “Got The Life”, “Twisted Transistor” and “Freak On A Leash”. Hearing these tracks, reminded you how good this band can be, and why so many people turned out to see them (Oh, and Hatebreed and Disturbed).

To finish off my musical weekend I took my Mum, and future Mother In-law to see The Choirboys, Jon Stevens and Ian Moss. It bloody rocked! Old school, classic pub rock at it’s best! We didn’t get to see the whole of the Choirboys set, but “Run To Paradise” was as great as you would expect it to be. Jon Stevens rocked out with a full band, playing classics like “Take Me Back” and “Hot Chilli Woman”; and covers of “Jealous Guy” and “Light My Fire”. Mossy then came out and performed an acoustic set featuring “Tucker’s Daughter”, “Telephone Booth” and “Bo River”. I was easily the youngest person at this gig by about ten years, and I think us young-ies are missing out! They don’t rock like this anymore, it was a thoroughly enjoyable night all round.

As far as CD’s go, I haven’t had much of an opportunity to listen too intently. I can, however, highly recommend the latest offering from You Am I, "Convicts" is released mid-May…get amongst it!

Promise not to leave it so long next time…

Pop Princess xoxox

Start me up!

2006-04-09T20:10:00.000+10:30

I am loving ‘Dani California’ by Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The song is the funky Chilli’s of old, but with enough rock about it to keep the more recent fans happy. It is a killer clip too! Anthony Kedis looks so much better with longer hair, he is hot either way, but long hair on him is a go-er! The anticipation for ‘Stadium Arcadium’ is building; it will be really interesting to hear the direction they have chosen to go with this album. If the single is anything to go by this could be one their most successful albums in recent times. Hopefully Flea feels like visiting his Grandmother soon so we get a visit!

Faker was amazing at The Corner last week. They were extremely tight and working the stage well. Highlight for me is ‘My Love is For Sale’, such an under-rated song. Low-light was ‘Hurricane’, about 20-odd fans rushed the stage and the band were more focused on them than the song; as the rest of the set had been so tight it made this sloppy song far more obvious. They can hardly be blamed for this though, it would be distracting having people shaking their thing in your face while you are trying to perform. Other than this last song it was a mighty impressive effort. The gig sold out too, which is a great sign. Singer Nathan Hudson is captivating and had the crowd eating out of his hand. Faker have an infectious energy about them, I can’t wait to see them again.

How good was Robbie Williams on Parkinson last night! Sigh. He is so gorgeous, and funny and talented. The man has it all! I am hoping the next single from ‘Intensive Care’ will be ‘Sin, Sin, Sin’…such a stand out track. Must nearly be time for a new single? Hopefully a tour announcement too??? Please let it happen!

I am off to see the Rolling Stones this week! I have never seen them before. I am also thrilled to hear that Airbourne will be supporting!!! Their story is a major case of de-ja-vu. Signed a multi-million dollar deal with EMI Music; major hype surrounding the band; securing the support spot for the Stones…all the things (in the same order) as Jet a couple of years back (who’s debut album went to #1 on the ARIA charts their first week in).

I will be watching Rove Live this week to be in the running to win Prince ‘Purple tickets’ to see him perform at his house in LA! I want to reserve my judgment about album '3121' at this stage as I have only listened to it twice and have not had the chance to give it proper attention to decide how I feel about it. ‘Black Sweat’ is easily the best song he has done in nearly a decade though.

Pop Princess xoxox

You are not alone child

2006-03-31T14:23:00.000+11:00

I finally got my hands on a copy of Live ‘Songs From Black Mountain’, and I must say that after my first few listens I am quite impressed. It has been quite awhile since we’ve had any new material from Live, and after reading all the quotes from Ed about how the album is based on the thoughts of females as muses, I was a little concerned. I should have had more faith, Live are yet to let their fans down.

Stand out tracks are ‘The River’, ‘Mystery’ and ‘Wings’ for me. There are moments that it does sound a little bit preachy, but hey, they make no secret of the fact tat they are a Christian band, and this has always been reflected in their music, so this comes as no great surprise. It is quite funny in ‘You Are Not Alone’ when Ed declares ‘You are not alone child’, he sounds like a priest! Perhaps that was the intention…

The word is that they will be here to tour this album in December. I have seen Live play about half a dozen times, and will continue to see them as many times as they come back. They always put on a fantastic show, and it will be great to hear some of the songs from ‘Songs From Black Mountain’ played live. This is classic Live; but when you have a winning formula why would you mess with it?

Whilst we are talking about Live, Adam Kowalczky (Ed’s cousin) also has a band, Adam and the Weight, check out their website: http://www.adamandtheweight.com/ and thank me later…

Also landing on my door step this week was Pink’s ‘I’m Not Dead’. Wow, this sees a new direction for Pink. The single ‘Stupid Girls’ does not really reflect the album. This is a very mature album containing many styles of music, from the poppy beats of ‘Stupid Girls’ (though I stand by my comments that this track’s film clip is a little hypocritical – see rant in earlier post), to the heart wrenching ‘Dear Mr. President’ and the soulful of ‘Nobody Knows’ and rocking ‘U + Ur Hand’, this album has something for everybody. This girl can certainly sing and this album should be a lot stronger than its under-performing predecessor 2003’s, ‘Try This’. I also noticed she has produced this album herself…good decision after hearing it!

Now if Christina and Justin would hurry up with their new albums!

I am off to see Aussie band Faker tonight and I am pretty damn excited about it! Will let you know how it goes….

Luv Pop Princess xo

Break the Night with Colour...

2006-03-20T12:22:00.001+11:00

There are so many fantastic albums out at the moment that are rocking my world!!! We are so spoilt for choice at the moment it is no funny. There are a few albums in particular that I need to rant about.

As mentioned in a previous post Placebo’s ‘Meds’ is fantastic with ‘Song to Say Goodbye’ and ‘Meds’ stand out tracks. Rumour has it that these guys will be back here before the years end. Let's hope so!

Richard Ashcroft ‘Keys to the World’, hello perfection. No wonder Chris Martin talks this guy up so much. I was a fan of The Verve, but this album is something else, it is in a league of its own. This is an early contender for my Top 10 albums of the year. My fave tracks are ‘Break the Night with Colour’, ‘Why Not Nothing’ and ‘Why Do Lovers?’

We Are Scientists ‘With Love and Squalor’ has the best cover art around at the moment. I love kittens; the tunes are not bad either! These guys were signed following last years SxSW conference. I can’t wait to see these tracks live…please let them tour here soon. (Fingers crossed).

Can someone please explain to me why Starsailor are not huge in Australia? The only impact they have had chart wise was with the remix of ‘Four to the Floor’. It is criminal. The same can be said about bands like Keane and Snow Patrol…what is wrong with people? Do they need to be hit around the head with an album before they can see how amazing it is? Check out their latest offering ‘On the Outside’. It was produced by Rob Schnapf (The Vines, Beck)

Corinne Bailey Rae, people are calling here the new Macy Gray. If you have not heard the superbly laid back single ‘Put You Records On’ it is only a matter of time. Bailey Rae’s self-titled album is out now and is a great chill out album. We need more female vocalist making this sort of music, it makes a nice change to the standard Jack Johnson, Donovan Frankenreiter and Ben Harper "kick back" CD’s.

I am in great anticipation of Prince’s newie and the debut from Mark Scholtez, a Brissy boy with very cruisey jazz sounds.

Hats off to The Church, The Cat Empire and Deltra Goodrem for their performances at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. I thought they were all amazing; I felt very proud to be an Aussie!

Oi Oi Oi!

Pop Princess xo

Play my favourite song!

2006-03-12T22:06:00.000+11:00

I had an interesting conversation with a friend the other day that prompted me to blog about it. It is a concept that both confuses and interests me…but I am getting ahead of myself, let me explain.

It all began with the mention of Primus, and I said, “Ah yes, Primus…'Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver'…charming song”. This comment offended my friend and prompted the conversation and friendly argument that followed.

He sympathized with bands that have made several albums, but only seemed to be known to the masses off the back of one song. He felt that often this song is a gimmicky, fun type of song that does not reflect the bands work as a whole. This in turn attracts the attention of people who would not normally be fans of the band, fans that do not understand the rest of the bands music. Often as a result the band will refuse to play this song live as a protest. My friend understands the bands frustrations and finds this move to the ban song justified. I disagree.

Most popular bands have “a song” that you think of every time you hear of the band. Often you think Coldplay…you think ‘Yellow’; Oasis – ‘Wonderwall'; Backstreet Boys – ‘Backstreets Back’; Britney – ‘Oops I Did It Again’ and so on and so forth, I think you get the drift. Is this a negative thing for the band? In my opinion, no.

The great thing about having a hit is that it opens up your audience. People will go and buy your single and listen to the b-sides, or they will go and buy the whole album. It expands the amount of people listening to your music. That has to be a good thing. Surely the goal of a band is to make the best music that they can and have as many people as possible hear it? Does it matter if your most successful commercial track is not your finest musical moment? Surely not, as long as your finest musical moment is being heard as a result of it and given the best chance it can, does it really matter? And who decides if it is the bands best song or not? Dot he band? Do their “real fans”? Surely again, this is a matter of personal opinion anyway.

Another concern that my friend had was that this popular son g may drive people who are not really interested in the band to their gigs. If a fan enjoys a song to the extreme that they are prepared to pay $80-odd to see that one song, not knowing any others, that to me s the ultimate compliment to the song writer and performer of that particular song. The fact that the song has affected them that deeply that they wills it through an hour or more songs they don’t know just to hear it is amazing.

Personally, when I go and see Robbie Williams, I am expecting ‘Angles’; when Foo Fighters perform, I am excited to hear ‘Learn to Fly’ and I expect that Bon Jovi will belt out ‘Livin’ On a Prayer’ like it is not the 50 millionth time they have played it. If an artist is going to accept the royalties and the awards/accolades and praise for a tune, they in turn, have to embrace the song as part of their history and have love and respect for it. One thing is for sure, their fans do.

Go the hits!

Pop Princess

P.S. I had the pleasure of hearing ‘You Needed More’ a sneak peak from the new Sleepy Jackson album expected in June. One word….WOW!

P.P.S Whilst all in Australia are disappointed we will have to wait to see U2, I am sure that all fans will agree with me when I say that we understand the reasons and wish The Edge’s family all the best through this difficult time. Hopefully they will make it here sometime in the new future.

This is doing my head in!

2006-02-24T22:30:00.000+11:00

The above is what has been taking up all of my time...preventing me from blogging. In fact preventing me from eating, sleeping and working (slight exageration, but I am building the tension here, work with me). This image is basically doing my head in. Allow me to explain. I received this via an email from a friend with a note saying there are 72 band names (no Aussie bands...boo) hidden in it. E.G. In the top left hand corner is a 'Led Zeplin'. I have sucked my finace in as well and the most we have been able to come up with is 57. A friend of mine says he has 62 of them. It is drivinjg me insane. Anyone want to play and post some answers in the comments??? I'll start it off. Come on, get involved, it's fun!

Ok, so on to other things...So, what to make of Pink’s ‘Stupid Girl’ clip? It is highly amusing. Some may say it passes on a strong message to young girls. They may say that it calls for false icons to be rejected and girls to embrace their brains rather than their looks. It bags the likes of Jessica Simpson, the Olsen twins, Paris Hilton etc. All positive things, are they not?

I, for one, am a little torn on the subject. The message is a good one (although VERY Kelly Osborne, don’t you think?) I would like to pose the age old theory to Pink that those in glass houses should perhaps not throw stones.

Pink seems to have some form of amnesia. It would seem she has forgotten the costume she wore for the ‘Lady Marmalade’ clip in 2003. Remember the one? It also featured Christina Aguilera, the one Pink verbally bashed during her show on the ‘Try This’ tour. Her outfit consisted of an oh so classy diamond encrusted top hat, diamond encrusted bra, black knickers, suspenders and stockings, stocking gloves and not a lot else. She is constantly seen in skimpy clothing and her bare mid-drift is one of her trade marks.

Speaking of good role models, what about the cover art for her single ‘Trouble’. It features her smoking a cigarette! Not a fantastic influence for young impressionable teens. And I’m sure Mothers all over the world are thrilled with her multiple tattoos.

Don’t mistake this article and think I do not like Pink. I own all her CD’s and am hanging out for her new one ‘I’m Not Dead’. I also found the ‘Try This’ tour inspirational (and for the record she made Christina’s show look like the amateur hour). But liking her and her music does not mean that I have to agree with her views. I think she fed herself to the sharks by making a clip like this. She has opened herself up to criticism.

The thing that seems to be lost on Pink is that it is not like the Olsens, Jessica Simpson or Paris Hilton are exactly out there to be role models (that would like too much hard work). Pink has now inadvertantly put herself out there as one, and perhaps that was not wise.

What do you all think??? Check it out http://www.video-c.co.uk/toptenwatch.asp?vidref=pink010

Pop Princess xo

P.S. Check out his article from last years Age, fantastic!

www.theage.com.au/articles/2005/11/17/1132016894409.html

An x-rated "Lift" from Shannon and a confusing moment with Rob Thomas

2006-02-16T22:19:00.000+11:00

Enduring the “performance” of Shannon Noll’s support Lee Harding was one of the most lengthy and painful of my life. I would describe is glorified karaoke…but even glorified would be pushing it. He murdered ‘Eye of the Tiger’, ‘Tainted Love’ and a Beatles song I wasn’t even able to recognize once he’d had his way with it. He should be charged. Mind you, the twelve years olds surrounding me seemed wildly impressed. I don’t get it. Usually I do have the same taste as the twelve year olds, but on this occasion it is lost on me. I get hat he is a bouncy, happy type; and the look is kind of appealing. But all that gets rather old watching him prance around the stage performing gestures to every word of every song, doing that stupid face he does. It is all very cute, and quite novel, in small doses. He is the new Rob Mills, the sooner he realizes that he is a fad the better. How ironic his debut album is entitles ‘What Is Wrong With This Picture’…hmmm, where to start!

Anyway, after this torture, the main event started. Shannon burst on to the stage with current single ‘Lift’. It was obvious from the word go that this was a different Shannon Noll than the one I saw 18-odd months ago. This man was comfortable. There were no odd-jerky dance movements, no nervous looks around the stage, no trouble pulling off any of the notes. Not that Shannon was bad last time, he wasn’t. He was just inexperienced and it was obvious. He has developed into a first class singer and entertainer, I could not be happier for him.

Highlights were ‘Now I Run’ (the third single); ‘What About Me’ and ‘Shine’. 'Black Car' also went down a treat, as well as a new song penned for him by Bryan Adams (I'm sorry I can't remember what it was called, but it is the B-side to the 3rd single).

The lowest point of the show was during the performance of ‘Down on Me’ (leaving that obvious and dirty joke alone) early in the set when one of the speakers shut down mid-song and we were unable to hear him or the band! However, after this minor glitch things went well.

Clearly Shannon was impressed with how things went, perhaps more than just a little impressed. I don’t mean to sound like a pervert, but about the third song in a strange bulge appeared in Mr. Noll’s pants and did not seem to leave for a song or two. I also notice his constant tugging down of his shirt and positioning of his non-mic hand remarkable close to this bulge on regular occasions. I could be wrong…I can only say what I saw. Thankfully this mysterious phenomenon had disappeared before he brought his two sons on stage to say hello. As Shannon would quote several times throughout the night (from Madagascar) "Smile and wave boys...smile and wave".

The fact that Shannon had three shows at the Athenaeum Theatre and two at the Mercury Lounge go to show that he is far from the predicted flash in the pan and has established himself as a notable Australian artist who deserves our respect.

That’s What I’m Talking Bout!

Mr. Rob Thomas also popped in to Melbourne to celebrate Valentines Day and his 34th birthday. My expectations were amazingly high for this gig; perhaps that is why I left the venue feeling slightly disappointed. Rob did nothing wrong. He played the hits, he spoke to the crowd, he shook his ass, he was upbeat, yet there was SOMETHING missing. I will attempt to put my finger on it.

Matchbox 20 never fail to deliver when they perform live. Rob Thomas is the centre piece of that. But another crucial element is the way the band interacts together. It is something that cannot be underestimated in a performance situation. Band members feed off each others energy. But M20 have something more than that, they have unmistakable, anthem-like hits. Now, don’t get me wrong, ‘Something To Be’ has had hits; it has had massive hits. But I hardly think the likes of ‘Lonely No More’ or ‘This Is How A Heat Breaks’ compare to the caliber of tracks such as ‘Push’, ‘Real World’ or ‘Bright Lights’. The closest to anything that compares would have to be 'Ever The Same'. The tracks are not bad, but itis like comparing apples and oranges.

That can’t be the problem though, as Thomas did perform stripped down versions of some of Matchbox 20’s finest moments. I must admit I did find the order of the songs quite confusing. One minute you were up bopping to ‘Streetcorner Symphony’ the next you were sinking back into your seat for a ballad resembling the form of Santana/Thomas hit ‘Smooth’. There was no “flow” for want of a better word. Every time momentum was building there was a cut in the power supply.

These feelings of the show being incomplete did not engulf me following Rob Thomas’ gig at the Mercury Lounge when ‘Something To Be’ was first released. It is this that leads me to the conclusion that it is possible that what upset me most about this gig is that the quality songs Thomas had to offer were lost in the hugeness of the venue and the all-encompassing noise of his band and the business of the stage. The emotions of key tracks were invisible in a stadium the way they were in a smaller venue.

There was nothing wrong with the Rob Thomas concert. (It had great moments, his cover of Bowie's 'Let's Dance' immediately springs to mind). It simply could have been better. He should have lost the band and played smaller theatre-style shows and let his melodies and heart-felt lyrics be the focal point. Otherwise, why do a solo album and tour when it appears sub-standard in comparison to his work with Matchbox 20?

Luv Pop Princess xo

P.S. This post is NOT a Rob Thomas slagging forum, he is and always will be a favourite of mine. The concert was good, it just was not great. He can do great, I’ve seen it.

P.P.S I WAS slagging off Lee Harding though. It is not personal, I'm sure he is a nice guy. His songs and performance leave me cold. I am aware he is popular, but I don;t like him and it is my blog so I can say so!

I've got a purple ticket! Well, no, but I wish I did...

2006-02-11T18:36:00.000+11:00

Better rush out and buy as many copies of Prince’s new album '3121' as you can! The artist formerly known as the artist formerly known as Prince is hiding 7 Purple tickets in the initial run of the album. Purple ticket holders will win “An Evening With Prince – A Private Performance at Prince’s House” in Minneapolis. Better than Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory if you ask me!

Anticipation is high for Placebo’s new album ‘Meds’. I was lucky enough to have a listen to their latest offering, and fans will not be disappointed. Stand out tracks (keeping in mind that I only got one listen) include the first single ‘Song to Say Goodbye’ and title track ‘Meds’. I am looking forward to having a more thorough listen to the album and will report back after I do.

In touring news March is set to be huge. Australia will welcome rock outfit Tool in March for a brief promotional tour; Everyone’s favourite band U2 will be gracing us with their presence; and of course the man of the moment in America – Kanye West will be supporting U2 as well as putting on his own side shows.

Congraulations to Keith Urban on his Grammy win!

Highlights of the Grammy winners (not listing them all, too many. The ones that count are here):-

Album of the Year: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, U2.
Record of the Year: Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Green Day.
New Artist: John Legend
Male R&B Vocal Performance: Ordinary People, John Legend.
Pop Vocal Album: Breakaway, Kelly Clarkson.
Rap/Sung Collaboration: Numb/Encore, Jay-Z featuring Linkin Park.
Song of the Year: Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own, U2.
Female Pop Vocal Performance: Since U Been Gone, Kelly Clarkson.
Country Album: Lonely Runs Both Ways, Alison Krauss and Union Station.
Rap Album: Late Registration, Kanye West.
Rock Album: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, U2.
Rap Solo Performance: Gold Digger, Kanye West.
Rap Performance by a Duo or Group: Don't Phunk With My Heart, The Black Eyed Peas.
Rap Song: Diamonds From Sierra Leone, D. Harris and Kanye West.
Solo Rock Vocal Performance: Devils & Dust, Bruce Springsteen.
Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal: Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own, U2.
Hard Rock Performance: B.Y.O.B., System of a Down.
Metal Performance: Before I Forget, Slipknot.
Rock Instrumental Performance: 69 Freedom Special, Les Paul and Friends.
Rock Song: City of Blinding Lights, U2, (U2).
Alternative Music Album: Get Behind Me Satan, The White Stripes.
Female R&B Vocal Performance: We Belong Together, Mariah Carey.
R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals: So Amazing, Beyonce and Stevie Wonder.
Traditional R&B Vocal Performance: A House Is Not a Home, Aretha Franklin.
Urban/Alternative Performance: Welcome to Jamrock, Damian Marley.
R&B Song: We Belong Together, J. Austin, M. Carey, J. Dupri & M. Seal, (D. Bristol , K. Edmonds, S. Johnson, P. Moten, S. Sully & B. Womack, (Mariah Carey).
R&B Album: Get Lifted, John Legend.
Contemporary R&B Album: The Emancipation of Mimi, Mariah Carey.
Male Pop Vocal Performance: From the Bottom of My Heart, Stevie Wonder.
Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal: This Love, Maroon 5.
Pop Collaboration With Vocals: Feel Good Inc., Gorillaz Featuring De La Soul. .
Male Country Vocal Performance: You'll Think of Me, Keith Urban.

Boy bands = happiness!

2006-02-04T19:55:00.001+11:00

It has been a long time coming, but it was worth the wait. Rod Laver was filled to capacity, with screams so piercing many had their hands over their ears. Finally, after 13 odd years, the Backstreet Boys made it to Australia

Now apparently it is “un-cool” to like the Backstreet Boys, but judging by the filled venue there are a lot of closet fans out there. Fans that not prepared to admit they like the band, but silently buying their albums and forking out $80-odd for a ticket to see them.

Well I am a Backstreet Boys fan, and I am proud of it. I miss boy-bands. I love that they are comfortable enough in their own skin to dance, and enjoy dancing. I admire that they sing romantic (some may say corny) songs about their feelings and make no apologies for it. I appreciate that they co-ordinate and colour-code their outfits and care that they look good for their fans. They accessorize!

There is not enough of this sort of pop-tacular musical groups around anymore, and the ones that are rarely last a quarter of the time the Backstreet Boys have been around for. I challenge the well accepted notion that if you are in a pop group you typically can not sing well and do not play instruments. During their gig there was little doubt left that each of the guys has an amazing voice and that they are more than capable of holding a note and harmonizing. Nick also played guitar for a few songs; and Kevin played the piano.

The show opened with ‘The Call’ and featured many of their hits over the years including ‘As Long As You Love Me’, ‘Shape of My Heart’, ‘All I Have to Give’, ‘Larger Than Life’ and ‘Incomplete’, finishing their show with signature hit, ‘Backstreets Back’.

No fan left the venue unhappy. There was plenty of interaction with the crowd, a few members venturing out into the crowd at various times during the show. The guys seemed light hearted and jovial, and generally excited to be finishing their world tour in Australia. The bands time was spent not only performing but making jokes and thanking the audience for their support and patience over the years, as well as all members of their crew from their manager, to wardrobe assistants, to lighting people and stage crew.

I am not sure that the Backstreet Boys take themselves too seriously. They are just doing what they love and earning fantastic money and thrilling millions of fans while they do that. I see nothing wrong with this! I am thrilled I went along to the show and would certainly go again should they ever decide to come back again.

Backstreet Boys fan…and damn proud of it!

Pop Princess xo

Gotta love a yellow t-shirt!

2006-01-30T22:08:00.000+11:00

A short one from me today…I am busy preparing myself for the Backstreet Boys concert this Thursday. I've been waiting years for this...literally!

It was a hot one at this year’s Big Day Out. Not a peep out of that supposed looming cool change until long after I was tucked into bed at home!

The new venue for Melbourne seemed to work quite well (despite reports to the contrary in the paper). There were a few blending sound issues, but that was standard even at the show grounds. I wouldn’t be devastated if they were to hold it there again.

Festival highlights:- Wolfmother; End of Fashion; The Living End and my bright yellow Arctic Monkeys t-shirt!!!

Speaking of the Monkeys, I’m sure you all already know that the amazing ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I Am Not’ is now officially the UK’s highest selling album first week of release. Can’t wait to see Australia’s reaction to this phenomenal band…please let it be good so they have an excuse to come here!!!

Upcoming releases that are damn exciting: Train ‘For Me, It’s You’; Pink ‘I’m Not Dead’; Red Hot Chili peppers ‘Stadium Arcadium’ (2CD); Prince ‘3121’; Richard Ashcroft ‘Keys to the World’; Placebo ‘Meds’; Live ‘Black Mountain’…yep 2006 is set to be big year for music.

Bring it on!

Pop Princess xo

Triple J's annual Hottest 100

2006-01-27T21:17:00.000+11:00

Well, another Australia Day, another Triple J’s Hottest 100. It was fantastic to see so many Aussies featuring again, doing us proud!

Aussie Aussie Aussie…Oi Oi Oi!

Please see my wrap up of the Top 20 below…

#1. Bernard Fanning – Wish You Well:
Ah yes, Mr. Fanning. We should not be surprised, and yet I was. Yes, it is a great song, it is catchy. But was it THE best song of 2005? Also, if it were a personality concert Bernard would be lucky to crack the hundred…not that personality comes into it…but worth throwing a little zinger in there.

#2. Ben Lee – Catch My Disease:
Wow, Ben Lee must be shirty he missed out on the #1 spot; particularly to Mr. Fanning. It is no secret that there is no love lost between the two of them. I think Ben was a little unlucky. He was my pick (see post from 11/1). Don’t worry Ben…I’ve caught it!

#3. Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.:
Go the Gorillaz!!! Not one but TWO songs in the top five! Gotta love that. Good luck to Damon Alban with his solo project this year; same with Blur’s newie…it will be hard to compete with the success the Gorillaz have had in the past 12 months.

#4. Foo Fighters – Best of You:
In my humble opinion this is the best song the Fooies have ever done. Love the song, love the lyrics, love the clip, love the band, loved their gig…just LOVE everything about them!

#5. Gorillaz – Dare:
Personally I prefer this song to Feel Good Inc. Both are killer tracks though. Amazing film clip too :0)

#6. Wolfmother – Mind’s Eye:
This song was widely tipped to take out the #1 spot. Still, three songs in the Top 20 and a total of SIX in the hundred. Boys must be happy with that ?!?

#7. The White Stripes – My Doorbell:
OK, anyone who knows me is aware that I hate the White Stripes and I think they are tremendously overrated. But even I quite like this song. Maybe their performance at the Big Day Out might be enough to turn me…only time will tell.

#8. End of Fashion – O Yeah:
Nice effort from the Perth boys. This song had to make an appearance, I am actually surprised it did not crack the Top 5. Still not a bad result at all. Can’t wait for the new Sleepy Jackson album this year.

#9. Wolfmother – Joker and the Thief:
Congratulations to lead singer Andrew Stockdale who has just become another celebrity Daddy (according tot he rest of the band during a Triple J interview)! Can’t wait to see the little ones hair do!

#10. Franz Ferdinand – Do You Want To:
These guys have a knack for head-bopping anthems that make you tap your feet without even realizing you are doing it. Another feel good track, antoher classic album. Can;t wait to see them live.

#11. Butterfingers – Fig Jam:
I don’t understand this band, but boy to they have a following! This is probably the best of their songs.

#12. Datarock – Computer Camp Love:
One of three songs in the Top 20 that I have never heard (from a band I have never heard of). Am I completely out of touch?

#13. Kanye West – Gold Digger:
Ah Kanye, what a year. Will be interesting to see how Mr. West goes down as U2’s support act for their Australian tour in March. An interesting combination. Can’t wait for Jamie Foxx’s album to be released here too! Another very well earned position here.

#14. Bernard Fanning – Songbird:
Nice song, but that is as far as I would go…nice. What will be the third single? Should be an interesting decision as the two most radio friendly songs are now tapped resources.

#15. Sarah Blasko – Flame Trees:
Beautiful cover by Sarah. Glad to see she made her presence known in this years Hottest 100. Very much deserved.

#16. Wolfmother – Apple Tree:
Anyone noticed that most of the Australian acts in the Top 20 have featured in my blog in the past month or two???

#17. The White Stripes – Blue Orchid:
Hmmm,yep, don’t like this one. But again, speak to me after Sunday…I may yet be a born again fan (but I doubt it). I had to giggle at Oasis' Noel Gallagher decribing Jack White's current look as 'a fat Zorro meets Johnny Depp'.

#18. The Herd – I Was Only 19:
No, 18 actually. This should have been traded for position #22 (Kisschasy – Do-Do’s and Whoa-oh’s).

#19. Josh Pyke – Middle of the Hill:
Josh who? Sorry…not digging it. This should be swapped with Faker ‘Hurricane’ (#21)

#20. Foo Fighters – DOA:
Please see notes at #4.

Another Hottest 100 over for the year!

A special mention has to go to The Living End who have made the 100 the past 9 years running…an amazing effort!

Til’ next time!

Pop Princess xo

Australian Music Rocks!!! - Guest Blog on About.com

2006-01-23T19:28:00.000+11:00

Considering Australia’s location and apparent remoteness from the rest of the world, it is no wonder that Australian artists have struggled to impact overseas. Sure, there have been some exceptions to that rule: AC/DC and INXS for example. But up until recently, very few bands have been able to convert their local success into international recognition…and then there was Jet!

Suddenly the flood gates have opened and overseas A&R managers are taking notice of Australian talent. And not before time!!! Australia offers some of the greatest new talents the music industry has seen in years.

Prepare yourselves! A large chunk of this talent is heading over to the States to perform at the SxSW Music Festival (March 15-20). Here are some performances that you will be kicking yourself if you miss!!!

Airbourne:
Pure old school rock! This band managed so secure the support spot for Motley Crue’s intimate gig in Melbourne, and had an amazing response from the audience. There is phenomenal hype building for this band, similar to the hype surrounding Jet before their debut release, the hugely successful ‘Get Born’.
Airbourne has been touted the next AC/DC, quite a rap for the young band (not to mention a lot to live up to).
Their debut album is due for release in Australia early next year… One thing is certain, it will be met with thunderous applause from those who appreciate air guitar, tight jeans and beer.

Sarah Blasko:
Sarah Blasko’s debut album ‘The Overture and the Underscore’ superbly infuses mellow vocals with soaring harmonies; and the result is breathtaking.
Blasko is a unique and refreshingly original artist who is gathering a cult following within the indie music scene in Australia. Fans of PJ Harvey will adore Sarah Blasko.

End of Fashion:
Infectious, addictive and just damn fun! I challenge anyone to stand still when they hear this band. End of Fashion is the perfect blend of pop and rock, with catchy lyrics and a spunky front man! There is an element of cheekiness with this band that is irresistible. You should particularly listen out for their first single ‘O Yeah’, it has a killer film clip too.

Faker:
Faker has an unmistakable energy, an energy that they have the ability to channel into a stark, sexy ballad or a frenzied rock explosion. It is this quality that makes them comparable to the likes of Blur (the band name Blur and The Cure as major musical influences), Editors or The Bravery (whom they supported on their Australian tour). This is just the beginning for Faker.

Missy Higgins:
Australia’s darling, Missy has the voice of an angel. Her songs are pure and honest, and you cannot help but be swept away by her modest charm. All Missy needs on stage is a piano and she can transport you to another place, and what a place it is.
Tom-boy Missy has had a busy year. ‘The Sound of White’ was Australia’s biggest selling album of 2005; Missy also won a massive 5 ARIA awards (Australian equivalent of the Grammys). There is nothing left for Missy to achieve in Australia, so the time has come to take her music to the world, and Australia is behind her 100% of the way!

Kisschasey:
This is Pop/Punk in its modern form. It is feel good music combined with playful lyrics that you can jump around to. Throw in some rocking guitars for good measure and you have Kisschasey.
These guys supported the Dandy Warhols for a free gig in Melbourne and rocked Simple Plan fans as their national tour support!
Their debut album ‘United Paper People’ debuted in the Top 15 on the ARIA Charts and the boys managed 2 ARIA award nominations…not a bad start really!

Xavier Rudd:
There is an organic edge to Xavier Rudd’s music. This makes it both unusual and unmistakably raw, yet overflowing with spirituality that resonates from Rudd’s adoration of all natural beauty.
A one-man band Xavier sits amongst his numerous instruments (which includes a stomp box, guitar and didgeridoo) with his bare feet and creates magic… there is not one else quite like Xavier Rudd.

Wolfmother:
How does one explain the music of Wolfmother? Power-filled stoner rock, with its roots firmly planted in the 70’s hard rock scene. Wolfmother will no doubt be drawing comparisons to the likes of Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath from reviews of their self-titled debut. Classic rock updated for a new generation.

For more information on the amazing talent Australian will be showcasing check out the Australian Music Collective (http://www.australianmusiccollective.com/).

Pop Princess xo

Guest Post...Part 2

2006-01-20T17:05:00.000+11:00

Hey all,

The second part of my guest post on About.com is up....

http://top40.about.com/

Check it out!!!!

Luv Pop Princess xo

Breeding the Stars of Tomorrow!

2006-01-19T21:29:00.000+11:00

What is in the water in Hollywood at the moment??? Is it just me or do all the celebrities seem to be breeding?

In recent times we have had Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie announce they are expecting; Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) and Jordyn Blum confirm have a bun in the oven (thanks to band-mate Taylor Hawkins fo the heads up!); Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age) and Brody Dalle (The Distillers) are in the family way; Jack White’s (The White Stripes) Mrs. is up the duff and Chris Martin (Coldplay) and Gwyneth Paltrow are knocked up (please let them call this one Black Current).

Who could forget about Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise, that little bundle of joy can’t be too far away now; oh….and our very own Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer (let’s hope there are no phones in the delivery room). Gwen Stefani (No Doubt) and Gavin Rossdale (Bush) are waiting for a visit from the stalk; Matt Damon and Luciana Barroso have been hunting the cabbage patch and Jordan and Peter Andre have conceived (after that wedding can you imagine the baby shower???).

Perhaps a baby is the new mini-dog…you know like Paris Hilton and all of them had. They dressed them up and put them in handbags. It is the new fad. EVERYBODY is doing it. Just think of all the celebs that have recently had: Heath Ledger and Michelle Williams; Britney and K-Fed; Chris Cheney (The Living End) and his wife; Beck and Leighton Hewitt…the list goes on. hold the phone - Holly Hunter just had twins today!

Other celebrities RUMOURED to be preggers include Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban and Geri Halliwell (with an unnamed gentleman…which means she is not sure who the Father is).

I would like to offer big congratulations to the lot of them!!! It will be interesting to see what career paths these little ones chose; and how their parent’s careers will go trying to combine parenthood with fame. It is not an enviable situation.

To the future!!!

Pop Princess xo

Special Guest Blog...

2006-01-19T19:10:00.000+11:00

Hi all,

I am doing a two part special guest blog on About.com....

Part one is up now, and part two will be up tomorrow.

Check it out:-

http://top40.about.com/

I will upload the complete article early next week.

Enjoy!

Pop Princess xo

Best of 2005!

2006-01-11T22:03:00.000+11:00

Hey, hey all in Pop land,

Well, it seems I am a bit behind the times as this has all been done and dusted on other sites….but I am a bit slow and have never professed not to be. Besides, this is the ultimate list you have all been waiting for anyway (right?). So please grab a cold beverage, make yourself comfortable and prepare to indulge in what is my Top list for 2005….enjoy!

Top 10 Singles:-

1. Ben Lee - Catch My Disease:
This song made me like the guy. Before its release I thought he was an arrogant, cocky little turd. Now I think he is a little cutie (that was once a turd) that has done some growing up and some reassessing of his life and his attitude. Besides all that, it just makes you feel good. You can’t stay sad after listening to this song!

2. Shannon Noll – Shine:
This song silenced the critics. The man can sing, and this song is proof. This song converted haters to toleraters (not fans yet, but in time they will come. Baby steps). He makes me proud to be an Aussie!

3. Kanye West - Gold Digger:
This song took ages to grow on me. I couldn’t understand it for months; then it hit me like a tidal wave…so damn funky! You can’t stand still when you hear this.

4. Gwen Stefani - What You Waiting For?:
Hello Ms. Stefani, hello solo career; hello hugely successful solo album, not to mention a kick ass film clip. Gwen at her best…

5. Rogue Traders - Voodoo Child:
Who would have thought that Izzy from Neighbours had it in her?!? You go girl! Baby, baby, baby!

6. Backstreet Boys - Incomplete:
The boys prove they’ve still got it! Then follow it up with a piss-take film clip…it’s about time they got some of their own back! Respect!!!

7. Jesse McCartney – Beautiful Soul:
Don’t laugh, you have to admit you have sung along to it in your car! Don’t deny it. Yes, he is about 15, yes, it is wrong…but I love it!

8. Foo Fighters – Best of You:
This song gives me goose bumps. Dave Grohl was born to create the Foo Fighters, God bless him!

9. Snoop Dogg – Signs:
JT and tha Dowg…hell yeah! Great on the dance floor! When will JT stop collaboration on other peoples’ songs and get some new solo stuff out??? Let it be soon…

10. The Wrights – Evie (Parts 1, 2 & 3):
This song makes me proud to be Australian. All versions rock and are an amazing show case of the talent we have hidden here! Crack open a VB and sing/air guitar along with pride!

Top 10 Albums:-

Foo Fighters – In You Honor:
One word…Wow. This is the album they were destined to make, this is spectacular. Dave Grohl could never be JUST a drummer and this proves it. It is the perfect mix of rock, pop and ballads. It doesn’t get much better than this!

Robbie Williams – Intensive Care:
Criminal not to put him #1, but at least you know this means I am being extremely honest! It is no ‘Escapology’, far from it, but it is fantastic in a way that Robbie has never been fantastic before. He seems to be enjoying things more and I cannot wait to see these unique songs performed live. It is the sort of album that grows on you with every listen.

Shannon Noll – Lift:
Please see comments regarding ‘Shine’ for starters. Shannon is given more creative control to make am album that is truly his…and what an album! Key moment on this album is ‘Now I Run’, I believe this is the next single and I believe it has the potential to take this album to another place altogether and win him more new fans, again.

Alex Lloyd – Alex Lloyd:
There had never been any doubt that Alex is an amazing artist and song writer. This album is a return to form, not that there was anything wrong with his last album, but this one is better. It feels more comfortable, there is an unexplainable continuance between the tracks. The songs convert well live, and he seems more comfortable within himself performing them. Go Alex!

Coldplay – X&Y:
Another album that takes a few listens. It is like discovering a new treasure with every listen. This is not a background album by any stretch of the imagination…Again, I will be interested to see how these songs go live; I expect they will be brilliant.

Gorillaz – Demon Days:
RIP Blur, they were past their used by date anyway…they peaked at ‘The Great Escape’. Long live the Gorillaz! Love 'Demon Days' and 'Dare' was unlucky not to make my Top 10 Singles.

U2 – How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb:
Does this band ever make a mistake? Even in their darkest hour (‘Zooropa’) they are better than most bands could ever hope to be. The songs in this album relating to Bono’s Father strike a chord with me. It amazes me how they drift from Rock Gods to bone tingling ballads that haunt you. Big tip for gig of 2006!

End of Fashion – End of Fashion:
Oh Yeah! Love it. Feel good soft rock, not complicated, just damn good. Nothing like the Sleepy Jackson; the world is better off to have both bands.

Live – Awake: The Best Of:
Hats off to Live. They have lasted a bloody long time, and there are few that can do it like they do. New album out early next year. Will let you know a date ASAP.

Top 5 Gigs:-

Foo Fighters – Rod Laver Arena:
Blew my mind. Dave Grohl is witty, funny and a captivating performer/front man. Throw in their countless hits; the perve factor of Taylor and a wicked lighting show (not to mention Kaiser Chiefs as support) and there is not much more you can ask for in a gig.

Missy Higgins (Ben Lee) – Myer Music Bowl:
What a show. Perfect Summers night, amazing music in the aftermath of several ARIA award wins and superb music. Ben is recharged and upbeat; Missy is modest and amazing. Unforgettable.

Rob Thomas – Mercury Lounge:
I practically had to kill to get a ticket for this. Mr. Thomas is quite the performer and seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself. This is probably the most intimate setting you will get to see him in….it was worth it!

Brian Adams – Rod Laver Arena:
Again, a bit daggy I know, but let’s face it the man has had more hits than you can poke a stick at; and he duets with Shannon Noll and Brian McFadden. I don’t care if I get teased. My Mum and I went and had the time of our lives…Bring it on!!!

End of Fashion – The Corner:
I love seeing a band play when you know they are on the verge of cracking the scene…there is anticipation, a hunger and an unexplainable excitement. These guys have only just begun; they are amazing live and love their music. Stay tuned for big thing.

Top 5 Favourite TV Shows:-

1. Lost:
The most frustrating, yet intriguing show on television. Hot cast, amazing story lines, twist after twist…bring on February when it comes back! My hot tip is aliens…but that doesn’t explain the Polar Bears?

2. Desperate Housewives:
The new Sex in the City. Hotties, gossip, bitchiness…a girls dream!

3. Veronica Mars:
Love a good mystery, this show is the only shining light in the non-rating Summer!

4. Home and Away:
An oldie, but a goodie. God bless the writers of this show…they have it all. I love Amanda and the old duck... Can Beth save him (queue dramatic music)?

5. Big Brother:
Sluts, bastards, liars and cheats. The rewards room, a sauna and majority singles. People we love to hate. Every year I swear not to watch it, every year it hooks me in!

Well that’s t kids. Sure I have made some surprising choices!

‘Til next time!

Pop Princess

Age old arguments!

2006-01-06T00:31:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year all! I hope you had a safe and thoroughly good one! I know I did :0)

OK, it has not been very long since I last wrote, but an email I got from someone who had been reading my blog, and it inspired a response from me, and a public one at that.

My post that initiated the email: “Oh, and I have to mention The Editors, what a band! Sound a bit like The Killers, but not in a "let's rip them off and jump on the whole 80's revival bandwagon" sort of way. Anyway, their album The Back Room is magic!”

Here is the email I got in response: “The Editors ripping off the Killers??? It's Interpol they sound like, and it's Interpol, Hot Hot Heat, French Kicks and others that preceeded the Killers' not-so-original sound.”

So in response…I said they sound a bit like The Killers, not that they are ripping them off. I think The Editors are amazing (and I wish they had more support in Australia). I have never tried to pretend that The Killers have a particularly original sound, however, I must note that there is a very big difference in merely mimicking a particular sound or band that you admire; and taking inspiration from the style and making it your own. I firmly believe that The Killers are a band that have worn their influences clearly on their sleeve, but have contributed their own elements to their influence to advance the music to a new place.

I have to be honest and say that I have never heard French Kicks, however I have seen Interpol and Hot Hot Heat live; and they are brilliant. I am not denying that in any way. Though given the choice I would prefer to watch The Killers or listen to their CD, but that is just a personal taste thing.

Anyway, all of this got me thinking about all the drunken arguments I have had over the years about which bands rip off which other bands; who was the “original” band that started a particular trend; and of course which bands do and do not have “cred”.

This argument is one I hold very close to my heart, and one that gets me very fired up…I am sure a lot of people feel the same. My biggest point is that ALL bands (and I mean ALL) have drawn influences from other artists. Why is this a bad thing, and something that is looked down on? After all, it is the biggest form of flattery is it not? I guess at the end of the day, it boils down to the point I made above. There is nothing wrong with an influence, as long as you have added your own flavour to it.

Music is no different to fashion, film or any other form of pop culture, it goes in circles. It ebbs and flows. Very rarely does something truly “new” or “original” come along, and when it does, it is a mutation or merging of other styles.

I hope I have explained myself more clearly with the above. I would love to know what others think, do you agree???

Oh, and another pet hate of mine. I loath it when someone loves a band, but once they get commercial airplay, or some sort of major success they have “sold out”. Can someone explain this concept to me, as I seem to have missed something? Is it not the very ambition of a band or artist to get their songs heard by as many people as possible? Is it not the point to be the best at what you do? Why is this selling out? I honestly do not see the difference between a band progressing and growing their audience, and someone in an office going for a promotion at a major company.

The Black Eyed Peas are a band that gets a lot of grief on this topic. They are more successful than they have ever been since including Fergie in the band, and yes, their albums have taken on much more of a pop feel. Why is this “selling out”? They have kept their Hip Hop roots, and taken their music to a whole new audience. Their songs (other than ‘My Humps’) often have strong messages contained in them and their music is making hundreds of thousands of people happy. To some fans, this is a crime.

Can anyone explain to my why success is “selling out”? I really want to understand…

Pop Princess xo

A time for celebration!!!

2005-12-27T11:33:00.000+11:00

Merry Christmas! I hope you all had an amazing day and have some exciting plans for New Years Eve. Bring on 2006….we have a lot to look forward to.

Have not had much in the way of new music for awhile but Pink has been a busy girl. She has got engaged (and possibly getting married New Years Eve, rumor has it) to motor-cross star Corey Hart and has filmed horror movie ‘Catacombs’ due for release next year.

Congratulations to Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale on the announcement that they are ‘with child’. It is Gwen’s first baby, and Gavin’s first time giving fatherhood a real crack from word go (it was revealed last year that he fathered model Daisy Lowe 15 years ago, after a brief fling with Peal Lowe. Ironically, he is her God-Father.)

Another congratulations goes out to Eminem who is back together with Kim (inspiration for most of his most hate-filled hits). The two are discussing getting married again. I always thought he wasn’t quite over her…anyone who needs to go on abvout how much they hate someone for so many years clearly has some unresolved issues. Good luck to them! I wonder how his hard core fans have taken the news. Do you think this means we should hold our breath for a reunion with his second most bitched-about song topic...his mum Debbie?

Are we believing that congratulations are in order for our very own Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman? Is it a double congratulations for an engagement and a baby? Who knows. Lot’s of the press are focusing on the fact that they are not denying it…so it must be true. Perhaps though, they are just sick of denying things and are having a good laugh letting people believe what they want to believe? Only time will tell…but if she is pregnant, she will be showing soon, there is no hiding that!

The Sugababes are playing music chairs again with Mutya Buena leaving the band to spend more time with her daughter. The line-up change comes following the announcement of the band securing the highly sought after support spot for the Take That reunion tour next year.

Speaking of the Take That reunion, tickets were snapped up so quickly in the UK that the scheduled shows have now been doubled to cater for the demand. Please let them bring the show Down Under!!!

Silverchair are back in the studio working on their follow up album to the critically acclaimed ‘Diorama’. The boys will road test some tracks at the latest Australian music festival ‘The Great Escape’. The festival will be held in Sydney at Newington Armory over the Easter weekend. Should be interesting to see what sort of sound they come up with, especially after Daniel John’s stint with Paul Mac in The Dissociatives, wonder if it will affect the bands sound??? He is the song writer of the group after all…

Well done to Missy Higgins for having the top selling album in Australia for 2005, very well deserved. Missy is an amazing role model for young Australians and I wish her every success in 2006!

Speak soon,

Pop Princess xo

Things go from Dandy to Motley...to ???

2005-12-09T17:29:00.000+11:00

Ahh, I love Summer. I love the warmer weather and the bands that are attracted to our fair country in the brighter months!!!

Best not to get ahead of myself....The Dandy Warhols...gotta love them. In fact you've got to love any band that is sucessful enough to not have to do a free concert, but who does one anyway! I did not make it to the Vic Market free gig, but I was fortunate enough to see them perform at the Chapel. They are amazing. Although, I must admit I was excited at the prospect of a one hour Dandies gig...any one who had ever been to a gig will kow that the band tend to get a it caught up inthe moment and it is not unsual for them to play for 3 hours or more. Needsless to sayd they went significantly over their allocated one hour! By the way, if you have not seen 'Dig' the DVD yet...go out and get it! Addictive viewing.

Long live Motley Crue!!! Because I'm not sure how much longer some of the memebers will...No that is nasty! Their gig at Vodafone Arena was pretty impressive considering their ages and years of substance abuse. The theatrics were a little over the top and I found myself giggling through certain parts, although i am sure that was NOT the intended response. I guess I was comparing their gig to Velvet Revolver...which is not fair, as they were completely different gigs. The pyro's were worth the proice of the ticket alone though. Who could resist seeing 'Home Sweet Home' performed live?!? Also, lets face it, as feral as he is Tommy Lee isn't exactly hard on the eye is he? How cute is he in 'Tommy Goes to College'!?!

Now....gig of the year so far (and that is not a claim I make lightly). The Foo Fighters!!! You forget how many hits they have had until you see them playing them back to back. Dave Grohl, and to a lesser extent Taylor Hawkins own the show...but what a show it is. Grohl has boundless energy and the ability to continhue to hype up the audience throughout the whole show. You have to wonder if this band would have happened even if Nirvana hadn't been over...it looks to me as though Grohl is doing exactly what he was born to do with the Foos and their infulence as a band should not be ignored. They have been around for a bloody long time and have managed to keep producing fantastic and popular music (the two often do not go together). In my opinion 'In Your Honour' is by far their best album to date.

So many tours to look forward to in the first few months of 2006! Rob Thomas, Shannon Noll, The Backstreet Boys, U2...does it get any better?!? Also new music from Tool, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Goo Goo Dolls, Live...the list goes on.

Speaking of theings to look forward to....this is something I have been dreaming of for years. A Take That reunion!!! Granted, Robbie Williams is not involved (at this stage), but they went on for a good year without him before they split and they were still awesome! Only one word for it...speacial!

Speak soon!

Pop Princess xoxox

Intensive Care from Robbie, A Lift from Shannon and great music from Alex Lloyd!

2005-11-01T13:17:00.000+11:00

Well I have been very slack and there is a lot of news to catch up on!

First up, how good where the ARIAs?!? The lists of winners is below, and were all pretty much as they should be, in my humble opinion!

Album of the Year - Missy Higgins, The Sound Of White (Eleven/EMI)
Single of the year - Ben Lee, Catch My Disease (Inertia)
Breakthrough Artist - Album - Missy Higgins, The Sound Of White (Eleven/EMI)
Breakthrough Artist - Single - End Of Fashion, O Yeah! (EMI)
Best Group - Eskimo Joe, Older Than You (FMR)
Best Male Artist - Ben Lee, Awake Is The New Sleep (Inertia)
Best Female Artist - Missy Higgins, The Sound Of White (Eleven/EMI)
Best Rock Album - Grinspoon, Thrills Kills And Sunday Pills (UMA)
Best Country Album - Keith Urban, Be Here (Capitol/EMI)
Best Blues and Roots Album - Mia Dyson, Parking Lots (Black Door Records/MGM)
Best Children's Album - The Wiggles, Live Hot Potatoes (ABC Kids)
Best Dance Release - Infusion, Six Feet Above Yesterday (Sony BMG)
Best Urban Release - Daniel Merriweather, She's Got Me (FMR)
Best Adult Contemporary Album - The Go-Betweens, Oceans Apart (Capitol/EMI)
Best Pop Release - Missy Higgins, The Sound Of White (Eleven/EMI)
Best Independent Release - Ben Lee, Awake Is The New Sleep (Inertia)
Best Comedy Release - Tripod, Middleborough Road (Liberation)
Best Music DVD - Jet, Right Right Right (EMI/Capitol)
Highest Selling Album - Missy Higgins, The Sound of White (Eleven/EMI)
Highest Selling Single - Anthony Callea, The Prayer (Sony BMG)
ARIA Awards Hall of Fame Inductee - Jimmy Barnes

I had the pleasure of seeing two of the biggest winners at this years ARIA’s perform at the Myer Music Bowl last night. Ben Lee was fantastic, I have to be honest, I used to hate him. I thought he was a self-centred, arrogant little prick, but he seems to have had an attitude adjustment somewhere along the way, for the better, and I found him to be quite charming. Missy Higgins was her usual humble and gorgeous self. Her voice is so powerful, it blows me away. Just quietly I am expecting an announcement any day that they are a couple….we will see. The only low point of the gig was that I had to miss End of Fashion Live at the Chapel, as it was the same night :0(

Very pleased to see that Mr. Robbie Williams has taken his rightful place back at the top of charts with ‘Intensive Care’; following in the footsteps the previous week of our very own Shannon Noll with 'Lift'…Go Nollsey!

Alex Lloyd’s new self-titled album would come close to being the best thing he has ever done! He is looking great too, he has lost a heap of weight. Fatherhood must be agreeing with him in a big way!

I’ll try to keep this relatively short and sweet and promise I won’t leave it so long next time!

Luv Pop Princess

Goss, goss, goss!!!

2005-10-16T00:25:00.000+10:30

Well, it has been a busy couple of weeks for me, and I have lots to chat about!!!

I had the pleasure of seeing Pete Murray record the first instalment for Live at The Chapel for this year, and viewers will not be disappointed. Pete’s new album is fantastic, and has managed to live up to the very high expectations set by his first album, 'Feeler'. It will be interesting to see which song is selected from 'See The Sun' as a second single; there are quite a few contenders!!! It is also fantastic, to have Live at The Chapel back, it has been sadly missed. Can’t wait to see who will grace the stage over the coming months.

I have heard, and pass on the news with great excitement, that the eighth Goo Goo Dolls album is nearly complete and should be ready for release sometime early next year. It has been a long time between drinks for the band. Their last release was ‘Gutter Flower’ in 2002. There is no title for the album as yet…

Another exciting and much anticipated release is Outkasts’s 'Idlewild'. The album shares its names with the bands full length feature film. Both are being released on December 6th in the US according to band member Big Boi, lets hope they do not keep us waiting too long.

Ricky Wilson from the Kaiser Chief’s has decided to quit the band to become a radio DJ according to NME. Let’s hope his new gig starts AFTER the bands' support slot for the Foo Fighters in December…seems a little weird to me. I will let you know if I get any more information…

Jimmy Barnes will be honoured with entry into the ARIA Hall of Fame at this year’s award. Barnes is already a member as part of Cold Chisel. Am I the only one who thinks this is the ARIA board trying to make a popular move after the success of Barnesy's new album and duet with Dallas Crane? When is Diesel going to get a guernsey???

Paramount Pictures are believed to have bought the rights to Robbie William’s life story. Robbie apparently started writing two scripts while he was in rehab. No word as yet as to who will play Mr. Williams.

In other screen news Delta Goodrem is rumoured to be making guest appearance on the next series of The OC.

General goss: -

Prince has reportedly gone into hospital for a hip replacement. At 47 years of age, and decades of platform shoes and dancing, his body has had enough.

Warrnambool rock band Airborne has been signed to Capitol Records. The band have been likened to AC/DC and The Cult.

Tickets for Coldplay’s Melbourne show in July 2006 sold out in an hour, the second show is well on its way to selling out too.

Tommy Lee has to go to hospital after receiving minor burns during a Motley Crue gig in Wyoming. Lee was suspended metres above the stage when the incident occurred.

The Strokes are planning a brief Promo tour next month.

Jet are working on a new album, expected to be released around March 2006.

Marilyn Manson is releasing his own line of cosmetics in the US.

Take care,

Pop Princess

‘Tis nearly the season to be jolly…already!

2005-10-05T12:38:00.000+10:30

My goodness, before we know it Christmas will be here…and we all know that means all the record companies will pull out their big guns for Christmas shortly! Bring it on!!!

I had the privilege of hearing Robbie Williams’ latest offering ‘Intensive Care’ last week…and to say it is impressive would be a massive understatement! Those who do not like ‘Tripping’ do not need to worry, there are plenty of classic Robbie moments in here, rocking tracks; heart felt ballads and self deprecating tunes to make you giggle. My highlights are ‘Advertising Space’, ‘Your Gay Friend’ and ‘Spread Your Wings'. This album will be huge…

I also got to hear a live preview of Bernard Fanning’s (Powderfinger) first solo album ‘Tea & Sympathy’. I will be interested to see how Powderfinger fans react to this Country/Blues tinged album…I guess time will tell. The first single ‘Wish You Well’ is not really an accurate insight into the whole album, and is definitely the albums poppiest and most commercial moment.

In other exciting news The Darkness will release ‘One Way Ticket to Hell…And Back’ mid-November in the UK, lets hope we get it around the same time! Apparently a tour is expected to support the album, but dates and venues are yet to be revealed. Please let them include Oz!

There will be repackages of Gwen Stefani and Mariah Carey albums and Greatest Hits packages from the likes of Eminem, Limp Bizkit and Blink 182 to fill up the Christmas stockings.

Speaking of Oz tours, how good will Coldplay be!?! Bit of a pity we have to wait until July next year though…sure it will be worth the wait!

The first announcement has come through for BDO 2006, so far we will see The White Stripes, AFI, Iggy & the Stooges, Franz Ferdinand (as expected), Kings of Leon, The Mars Volta, End of Fashion, Faker and The Living End…with plenty more bands to be announced.

Congratulations to Shannon Noll on a #1 debut for ‘Shine’. I never had any doubt it would be anything but…can’t wait for the album!

Speaking of Idol, how disappointing are this years Australian Idol’s? Chris and Millie were my favourites during the audition process, Chris got booted week 1, and Millie has been very disappointing…What is going on? None of them seem to be giving 100%, and whilst many of them have great voices, they are far from reaching their full potential. Hopefully they will all pull something special out soon, or I feel sorry for the winner, at this rate I can’t imagine many people buying the quality of music we are seeing/hearing.

Time to jump off my soap box…until next time.

Pop Princess xo

Weddings, Statues and Anything!

2005-09-26T15:57:00.000+10:30

Ah yes, Grand Final Day over for another year, which means it is the end of September all ready!!! Where has this year gone? Before we know it Christmas will be here and all the Summer festivals. Yeah!

Quick congratulations to Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher who apparently got married overnight. Good work guys…sure it will last a long time. Who cares about the 16-odd year age gap and the fact that Ashton is closer to her children’s age then to hers…not gross at all!

Oh, and in case you have been living on Mars and do not know Britney and Kevin’s baby has been named Sean Preston. Awwh. Britney has also released a new fragrance…Fantasy. Let’s hope it is as easy on the nose as Curious.

I read with great interest that Tupac is getting a 7 foot bronzed statue to commemorate the anniversary of his death and the contribution he made in life. Hmmm, interesting. It got me thinking, where is our Kylie Minogue statue? Granted, she is not dead, but do you need to have died to be honoured with a statue? Plenty of sports people have statues and there are not dead yet. If Tupac deserves a statue surely Robbie Williams should have one somewhere?Anyway, this is quite morbid, I’d best move one…

In Big Day Out gossip, Franz Ferdinand have announced show in Melbourne and Sydney in late January…will they be added to the Big Day Out tour??? Unfortunately the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who were originally rumoured to head line, will not be as their new album has been delayed until mid-2006. Other rumours have included Audioslave, The Pixies and Rammstein…I guess only time will tell.

Metallica have just recorded their voices for their guest appearance on The Simpsons, due to air in the US in 2006, wonder when we will get to see it here??? Should be interesting. Maybe they should concentrate lees on carton guest appearances and documentaries and make the new album that is rumoured???

Short one today....

Luv Pop Princess

Go Missy Go!!!

2005-09-15T14:35:00.000+10:30

The ARIA Award Nominees have been announced and it is all about Missy Higgins and Ben Lee. How good will their combined gig at the Music Bowl be?!?! Bring it on! Lets hope it's a lovely starry night...it won't get any better than that.

I am also quite chuffed to see that Sarah Blasko is up for a few awards too! Her album ‘The Overture & the Underscore’ is one of the most under-rated Australian albums of the year, in my opinion.

I am also pleased with the nominations of Thirsty Merc, Evermore. Keith Urban and Little Birdy. It's about bloody time Urban's own country started to aknowledge his fantastic work. It should make for a good awards show! Can’t wait to hear who is performing and also who will be presenting. Apparently Rove McManus has decided not to host this year…please NOT EDDIE!!!

The new Bon Jovi album ‘Have A Nice Day’ is classic old school Bon Jovi. Fans will love it. And people that pretend that they are too cool to be Bon Jovi fans will secretly go off to it in their cars, in their bathrooms or in front of the mirror in their bedrooms - but deny they like it. Let’s hope that they add Australia to their recently announced tour! It is only North America at this stage.

We must all congratulate Britney Spears on the birth of a health baby boy, no name yet. But I do hear they were considering several U.S. states as possible names…As per Britney’s wishes the baby was born caesarean to avoid too much pain. Hello! Giving birth is a painful process (I hear), I’m sure that a caesarean is not exactly the most pleasant experience known to man kind either…but to each their own. Hopefully now that the little one has popped out she might start work on a new album!?! Fingers crossed….I won’t hold my breath though.

In other news rumour has it the The Pussycat Dolls will be here in November to promote their album ‘PCD’, which features ‘Don’t Cha’. How addictive is that song! They are so the new Spice Girls…like totally! :0) I wonder if they will launch their make up range or a Pussycat Dolls Lounge in Oz, as they have in L.A.? One can only hope.

John Mayer has a new project...The John Mayer Trio. The trio are a bluesy, rock outfit and are recording their live shows this month at the House of Blues in Chicago for a DVD due for release in November. Should be interesting. What is with the Trio??? I gues it works for John Butler...

I must comment onthe exit of Chris and Tarni from Australian Idol, and placing of Millie in the bottom 3! Hello people?!? Are you watching the same show as me? Why is Laura still there??? Granted, Tarni, Millie and Chris have all performed better than what they did on Sunday, but they are all far superior to Laura! For shame!

Eagerly awaiting the following albums:-
Nickelback – ‘All The Right Reasons’
Pete Murray – ‘See The Sun’
Franz Ferdinand – ‘You Could Have It So Much…’
Alex Lloyd – ‘Alex Lloyd’
Shannon Noll – ‘Lift’
Robbie Williams – ‘Intensive Care’

As promised, I will comment on the Institute album, with Gavin Rossdale from Bush on vocals: It is crap, don’t bother…it is however many minutes of your life that you will never get back. It would be better to play an old Bush record that you know you will enjoy.

I will have much to report next time as I am off to see Bernard Fanning (from Powderfinger) perform his new solo material; End Of Fashion; Wednesday 13 (goth/halloween band) and to the Footy Show Grand Final (that will feature the Black Eyed Peas and Shannon Noll) and the Black Eyed Peas in the next week and a half, will let you know how they all go.

Bye!

Pop Princess xo

Robbie Williams - New song 'Tripping'

2005-09-06T10:26:00.000+10:30

Friends, today is a very special day!!! Robbie William's new song 'Tripping' has gone to radio. For all those who have not heard it yet go to www.whatsyourfuture.com/ and click on 'Inspired' to hear it.

Well, it is certainly a totally new direction for Mr. Williams, quite unlike anything he has done before! He has described it as a 'Mini Gangsta Opera', but to me it sounds more reggae, with a rap a little reminicent of Take That thrown in. Loving the false setter (ph.sp.) sections of the song. the first time I heard it I was in shock and not 100% sure what I thought, but having listened to it numerous times I think it is a masterpeice. There are a lot of different things going on in this track and for most people it wil take them a couple of listens to decide whether or not they like it. I have spoken to a lot of people that hate it. Would love to know what you think...post a comment!

In other pop news, Shannon Noll's 'Shine' is all over our air waves and is bloody awesome! It doesn't sound like Shannon though, all his raspiness is gone. Not sure if this is the result of voice coaching, or just the way he is singing this particular track. I am very keen to hear the album and see what he has come up with!

Other tracks I am digging at the moment include Alex Lloyd's 'Never Meant To Fail' and Pete Murray's 'Better Days'. Both are touring their new albums during September/October. Australian music is going off at the moment! We have so much talent in this country and it is great to see Aussie acts doing well.

Apparently the Backstreet Boys are touring Australia and should be here early next year, can't wait for more details. According to Howie they are hoping to get here "probably end of January, early February." Something to look forward to!

I have the Institute album, 'Distort Yourself' on my desk ready to play. It is the new band for Gavin Rossdale (formerly from Bush, married to Gwen Stefani and had a part in the Keanu Reeve's film 'Constantine'). Should be interesting, I will report back next time! Also, while we are talking Gwen, the word on the street is that 'Love, Angel, Music Baby' will be re-released with a bonus re-mix disc in October. Make a nice Christmas presnt!

Please excuse the fact that I have still not found the spell check on this thing!

Until next time!

Pop Princess xoxox

Robbie Williams - OMG!!! :0)

2005-08-25T13:43:00.000+10:30

Robbie news!!!! His new album is called Intensive Care is released in Australia on October 24th. The first single is Trippin’, apparently a reggae infused number??? Should be interesting! I took a little convincing when Radio came out, but as all his songs do., it grew on me eventually (which was a change from the usual instant adoration)! I loved Misunderstood, but you can’t go wrong with a heartfelt ballad as far as I am concerned! It will be very interesting to see the direction that this album takes, as it is his first without Guy Chambers.

In other exciting news Live are rumoured to have another album out by Christmas…and it’s a new one! Yeah!

Aussies Jet have previewed some tracks from their forthcoming second album in the UK…when do we get to hear? Boy it better be good (the second album that is). How much would the media/industry/detractors love it if the album was crap? Come on boys, proove them wrong, make soemthing original and bloody fantastic!!!

Speaking of Aussies, Bernard Fanning's (Powederinger's front man) debut solo effort is entitled Tea and Sympathy...no, I don't think he will be needing any of the latter.

You should also check out Darren Middleton's (Powderfinger's guitarist) side project, Drag. Their album The Way Out is fantastic!

And Coldplay are supposedly about to announce an Australian tour for early next year. Let it be true! Although I don’t think they could ever better their gig in Australia at Festival Hall, it’s just not the same at Rod Laver...

I need to comment on the fact that the brainy promoters have scheduled the Foo Fighters and Motley Crue gigs on the same nights in Melbourne. Why would they do this? Why have a gig on at Vodafone and one at Rod Laver the same night too? It is hard enough to get parking or a spot on the train when only one gig is on!!!

Good news that Kylie is likely to be well enough to complete her Show Girl tour next year. You go girl!

Oh, and I have to mention The Editors, what a band! Sound a bit like The Killers, but not in a "let's rip them off and jump on the whole 80's revival bandwagon" sort of way. Anyway, their album The Back Room is magic!

Outta here

Pop Princess

Big Brother over...Australian Idol begins!

2005-08-23T12:18:00.000+10:30

Big Brother…it is an interesting phenomenon. Each year I promise myself that I will not watch it or become hooked, yet every year without fail it sucks me in! This year was no exception. Thank goodness the Logan’s won, I couldn’t stand Tim. He was so condescending and superior…and can we say stalker!!!

Anyway with BB gone for another year it is time to focus on Australian Idol! I already have my favourites and would like it on the record that I believe that Chris and Millie will make the grand final. Should be an interesting one. Group 2 in all were pretty woeful, will be interesting to see what group 3 are like.

Speaking of Idol’s, the word on the street is that Shannon Noll’s new album will be out by Christmas. I can’t wait. There are rumours that Bryan Adams has been working closely with Shannon on the project and there may ever be a duet. Fingers crossed…does it get any better than that!?!

Albums that I am loving at the moment include:
Kisschasey – Untitled Paper People: Go the Aussies!!!
End of Fashion – End of Fashion: Again, go the Aussies! How good are these guys, I can’t get enough of ‘O Yeah’.
Black Eyed Peas – Monkey Business: Bring on the tour. Let’s hope it is as impressive as the last one.

Gigs that need to be mentioned:
The Bravery – Prince of Wales: Got to love a band that only has one album, comes and plays a majority of it and are off stage within an hour. There was no crap, just great songs, a couple of awesome covers. They left the crowd wanting more…makes for a nice change from these self indulgent artists that play on for hours!!! Especially on a week night!

Rob Thomas – Mercury Lounge: Yes, it was a while ago now…but needs an honourable mention. I was a little unsure about his solo album until I heard the tracks live; now I get it! He can do no wrong.

Peace out!

Pop Princess xo

Splendour In The Grass - Yeah Baby!

2005-08-04T20:12:00.000+10:30

Hey there fellow Poppets!

Now whilst I am a Pop fan at heart, and this is my favourite genre of music I do, depite common beliefs, have quite a broad range of music taste. I like anything that makes me feel good, and whilst pop tops the list, I enjoy other things too so here we go....

Ah yes, not only had I never been to Byron Bay...but I had never expereienced the festival legend that is 'Splendour In The Grass'. And I was not disappointed!

The Stand Out Performances: For me were without a doubt Queens Of The Stone Age and the Finn Brothers.

Honourable Mentions: The Living End and Sarah Blasko.

Embarassment of the Festival...Ryan Adams.

I don't get it. Yeah his songs are OK (at best, that is probably being generous), but waht is with the tantrum throwing? From what I hear this is quite a regular occurance. Who does this guy think he is? He is not Elvis or anything, there are surely only so many times you can be rude and chuck a mood before people are going to get fed up. Sorry I should explain...for anyone that was not there, or who has not heard.

He was not happy with the sound at the festival (which is fair enought, festival sound is usually far from perfect, but that is no secret). He commented a few times before stopping mid song and asking if was a joke and then left the stage without finishing his set. The following week in Sydney at his gig he refused to continue to play after someone shouted out something along the lines of 'Play Summer of 69'.

Does this guy have a sense of humour? Did he not consider these sort of comments before he put out an album? After all, the fantastic and very talented BRYAN Adams has been around for a very long time, the joke was always going to be there to be made.

As for his sound issues, I fail to see how this is the audiences fault and how storming off is fair to the people that may have paid to come to the festival to see him (as unbelieveable as this concept is to me, apparently this moron is quite popular).

Enough of this. Back to the positive stuff...I could bitch about this idiot for hours!

Bands like The Living End never fail to impress me. They have so much energy live and the crowds just love them. They play with so much enthusiasm and you can tell they are enjoying themselves...makes a nice change from the snivelling whinger mentioned above.

The Finn Brothers almost seemed surprised by their response from the crowd. It is nice to see people being humble in an industry full of such egos. I heard on the grape vine that organiseres were hesitant to include the Finn Brothers on the bill...I'll bet they are glad they decided to give them a go!!!

Ah, my good mate Josh and fellow Queens of the Stone Age-ers. I must admit that I was a little unconvinced after my first few listens to 'Lullabies To Paralise' but I get it now after seeing some of the songs live. The band is deffinitely different without Nick Oliveri, but I don't think they are necessarily better or worse without him. The new albumis less edgey and rough sounding, but there are still some classic Queen's stuff in their. They still have a very distinct sound, and blow you away with their live sound.

I also experienced The Hilltop Hoods for the first time at Splendour. I am not sure that I would necessarily buy their album, but I will see them live again for sure. Certified! Hell yeah!

Thats about all my ramblings for today, I've kept you long enough!

Pop on!

Pop Princess xo

Pop lovers, it's time we were heard!!!

2005-07-31T17:22:00.000+10:30

Hi all,

I am new to this whole Blog thing, but bugger it, why shouldn't I have one!!!

I am sick of people bagging pop music and feeling I have to embarassed to talk about my favourite boy bands and Australian Idol winners!!!

I know there are thousands of Pop lovers out there, just like me. The ARIA charts prove it. So this is a place I will come to talk about all my favourite music, and if you don't like it or don't agree with me you have two choices, ignore it and don't read it, or add your own comments/thoughts!!!

Speak soon!

Luv Pop Princess