The Times They Are A-Changin’

When watching the 6 o’ clock news, I was most disappointed to find that HMV was the next business to go under administration. It brought me to the horrible realisation that this will now be the start of my nightmare; the “experience” of music is no more. All of the music in the world can be found at the click of a mouse… but where’s the fun in that?

The record store is rapidly transforming into a concept, losing its tangibility. That image created in Empire Records where its quirky employees who are more than happy to drown you in potential purchases, after you lock yourself away to sit in a booth for hours, listening to a CD which will sure to be life changing, is all just a memory now. Hours spent scouring through the alphabetically assembled music world, fingers flying, minds boggling, trying to find that record your friend was telling you about…all gone. ‘Cos let’s face it, why spend hours in a shop when you can sit in bed and buy your whole music library in a matter of minutes? I think that’s the point… the internet is taking over from everything; retailers are suffering as the general public are finding that doing their shopping online is much more convenient. But whatever happened to the ‘Try before you buy’ policy?

We are now faced with the inevitable outcome that the record store can’t quite compete with the iTunes store. We may not be able to feel the CD sleeves between our fingers and admire the artwork but the internet provides endless musical needs for anyone: Spotify and Youtube to name but a few music sites (even my blog may be seen as unhelpful to the music retailer!) It won’t be long till I’ll be finding myself scurrying through survivor stores in Brighton Laines and other niche markets, stocking up on vinyls and CDs, not just for hibernation, but for the rest of my life… How long will it be before these businesses crumble under the high technological pressure?

My little nephew, at the age of 2 can already begin to master the iPad… He, like the majority of us, is a member of the digital age. (Just so you know, I’m not included in the ‘us’) I’m a 21 year old, born in the 90’s with an 80’s film star trapped inside of me. The decade where vinyls were slightly redundant but still celebrated, CDs were the new, up and coming invention and cassettes were the norm is somewhere I want to be and crave for it the more I watch The Breakfast Club…

So where’s that DeLorean, Doctor Emmett Brown?

DAMN THE MAN. SAVE THE EMPIRE [HMV]

Empire Records… Saving a record store by having a rooftop gig; If only it was that simple. XO

TOP THREE TRACKS OF THE WEEK:

‘Sisters are doin’ it for themselves,’ this week:

Lana Del Rey – Ride

After a short break, Lana is finally filling our ears again with her dark and sultry drones with her first release from her new EP, Paradise. Released on November 11th, Lana’s ‘Ride’ is one of nine tracks, along with ‘Blue Velvet,’ which can already be heard in recent H&M adverts this winter. ‘Ride,’ shines a light on what Lana is known and loved for; her haunting, highly emotive pop ballad.  With monotoned verses, largely resembling those of Johnny Cash, Lana yet again proves how musically diverse she can be if we compare it to the likes of ‘Diet Mountain Dew’ from her debut album. She is constantly creating sub-genres within her own genre. We are continually sent through a journey of different tempos in ‘Ride.’ We start in a slow, mysterious anguish which eventually builds into a harmonious, dream-like chorus.

Let’s hope Rey finds herself in her own paradise of critical acclaim this winter…

Daughter - Smother

It was earlier this year that I first came across Daughter and Elena repeatedly amazed me with every song, however, with this track I hate to admit it, but it was a bit of a slow burner. I’m now pleased to announce, however, that I am completely convinced this is by far the best release from Daughter. ‘Smother,’ shows how musically advanced and developed the three-piece have become, particularly from the days of Ellen’s acoustic sessions on Youtube; still proving  tracks like ‘Peter,’ are great but nothing which steps out of the generic female acoustic artist. ‘Smother’ jumps right in front of the queue of girls with guitars seeking stardom, with its multi-musical dimensions. The haunting vocals acts as a musical canvas for the poetical lyrics which speak out to any young lover who has ever been accused of smothering their other half (metaphorically of course). Daughter’s target listeners are the bitter, obsessive youth who fantasise about being loved or being a loved-up masochist…either way, its powerful stuff.

            ‘Smother,’ proves to be a highly anticipated taster of what is to come in the lead up to their UK tour in 2013, proving that it will be year the wild youth make their mark.

Haim - Don’t Save Me

My friend recommended Haim to me and I stupidly found myself brushing them aside after a couple of listens. (In my defence, I was caught up in a blurry dissertation haze at this point, ya know… wasn’t really thinking straight). Anyway, the Californian trio have now grabbed my attention with their most recent single, ‘Don’t Save Me.’ In interviews, they claim they are combining two genres: Rock and R&B, which can mainly be distinguished through their heavy use of percussion. I later read that the Haim sisters are all drummers… which would explain why I always want to dance whenever I hear the chorus: Baby, don’t save me, nooooow, with a hairbrush at the ready. It’s been a while since I’ve heard an alternative pop girl group. Don’t get me wrong, I have no qualms in admitting I am a sucker for the old-skool Sugababes and how extremely excited I am for the Girls Aloud reunion, but it’s so refreshing  to hear three girls sing their own music, inspired by the heavily musical background they’ve been brought up in.

They’re quirky and they’re bringing nu-folk to the music industry: I’m on board.

            Sisters are really doin’ it for themselves this week eh… 

Lucy Rose - Red Face

What I love most about gigs is coming home and listening to a song differently to how you did before. Lucy Rose’s ‘Red Face’  is currently my new favourite from the album. Scroll down for an almost running commentary of the gig. It’ll feel like you were actually there… xo

LIVE REVIEW: Lucy Rose @ Brighton’s Coalition – 12/11/12

Set List:

First

Red Face

Lines

All I’ve Got

Shiver

Night Bus

Place Scar

*NEW SONG*

Middle Of The Bed

Watch Over

Bikes

ENCORE:

Don’t You Worry

Be Alright

Now, I’d never been to Brighton’s Coalition before. I didn’t even know it was a music venue. I’d always assumed it was mainly a club on Brighton’s seafront so didn’t know what to expect, apart from the generic sticky floor and bar. My assumptions were correct. I couldn’t decide whether it was the fact I could barely see the stage or whether my lack of change for the cloakroom meant I was stood in amongst the crowd with my winter warmers on, sweltering… but something just wasn’t right. I always believe a venue can make or break a gig and to be honest I had my doubts. I think  it was ‘cos I had been waiting so long for a chance to see Lucy Rose, I had already envisioned this really small, intimate gig but I forgot how much her fan base had expanded over the last year… Fighting for a good view in a gig is never my strong point especially if a very tall, stocky man is standing square in front of you, armed with a pint along with his three pals. Luckily, I managed to maintain a spot where I could just about see Lucy Rose’s full set.  It was a gap between two people’s heads. Perfect. That’ll do. ..

My concerns with the venue instantly vanished when Lucy Rose came on stage and performed her enchanting ‘First.’ I realised there was even more to her voice that recordings on her CD and various videos online weren’t showing us. There was something classical   about it. Now, I’m not talking about opera or anything Mozart, I mean that original, husky, dusty, soft base to her vocals that I would now always associate with her. A distinguishable voice is hard to come by nowadays (listen to me preaching away again), but Rose proves that raw and original talent still exists in amongst a field where ‘dirty bit’ and ‘gangnam style’ are the hype. Moving straight into her second song of the night, ‘Red Face,’ the singer looked so at ease on stage and she looked as though she was relishing every second of it.  I found her even more charming than I thought I would as she interacted with the crowd, especially when she performed a new song she had been working on, mentioning how nervous she had been as she still couldn’t quite get it right. Opening up to your audience is something a crowd at a gig are really eager for. Trust your fans and your fans will trust you and will show this through their confidence to sing back the artist’s lyrics right back to them. Lucy had her crowd laughing, singing, bopping, shouting out ‘We love you Lucy’ throughout.

‘Middle of the bed,’ created an excitable wave through the audience, as well as ‘Bikes’ where the crowd simultaneously cheered as Rose sang ‘Listen up, Listen hear, everybody scream out loud!’ A smile was permanently pressed on Lucy’s face as she demanded the crowd to shout scream and be merry. I’ve always loved two kinds of performers 1) who commands the stage and 2) who continually reminds their fans of how grateful they are for their support. The best part is that Lucy oozes both. She exudes stage presence but without the gimmicks or the strutting, just the music.

There was an atmospheric awe which stayed from the moment Lucy Rose walked onto the stage right through to the encore where the crowd yelled ‘ONE MORE SONG! ONE MORE SONG!’ in unison, causing a rapturous ripple of applause until she came back to perform her final two songs of the night with her fellow band mates. She jokes about crowd surfing, before sailing straight into ‘Don’t you Worry.’ The gig was just a sixty-minute taster of what’s to come. The crowd were using every vocal cord they had to keep her from leaving the stage and ending yet another successful night of her UK tour.

This year has sped right past us, especially for Lucy Rose who started out strumming away in a local park hoping to release an album which is now spread on billboards across the UK’s capital.

Lucy once sang:

And you said, “Everything will be the same”

But look here, everything is gonna change

And you said, “It’s what I needed”

I don’t believe it

… But she better, ‘cos 2013 is going to be even more unbelievable. 

Nothing Ever Lasts Forever...

Echo & The Bunnymen - Nothing Lasts Forever

I still remember my first day of Primary school. The journey there appeared to be the most traumatising for me; for my parents, as they practically had to drag me along the street as I screamed, and threw up out of sheer determination not to go. I did, of course and loved it, as we all do…

I’ve been feeling very nostalgic recently after moving out from my home of twenty-one years. I had already left three years ago to go to University, however, my parents have decided to embrace the next chapter in their lives as well so there will no longer be that home that I’ve known and loved, my safety net, that same street where I strained and struggled to get myself out of going to school…

I have never experienced such a grief before in my life. I have lost loved ones before but never would I have believed that there is such a thing as bereavement for a house, an inanimate object. After the initial tear shedding, conjuring up plans of which household item to tie myself to, I began to realise why my parents and I had to go through such a heart wrenching experience. It was to move forward, to move away from habit, from fear, and towards uncertainty which brings excitement and a new lease of life. I’m also not planning to live with my parents forever, but graduating has led me back into their lives again. I felt selfish for being so distraught as it can only mean a much more fruitful future for us all.

My near future involves a call centre job, blogging and continual saving to succeed my life plan which includes the permanent removal from “the nest.” Well, the new “nest.” This time next year, I will have one (notice I’m not saying ‘I would like to have?’ Positivity is the key. Or is it arrogance? I’m never too sure… Maybe that’s where I go wrong…), if not a couple of internships safely tucked away in my Curriculum Vitae and a new lavish pad (maybe remove the “lavish” part, ‘cos that’s a bit unrealistic), a roof over my head in the country’s capital.

It suddenly hit me the other day that this is normally the time that I return to Nottingham to continue my under-graduate studies and drown myself in the student life, drown myself in the prolonging of “real life.” Now, “real life” is all I have to look forward to, or to endure. I can no longer hide myself away from the inevitable.

Secondary school gave me a complex, good GCSE’s and a sheltered view that up to University was as far as I had to plan ‘cos it would see me through for a while and then I wouldn’t have to worry about it. Now, having been on the other side of that thought, panic is surely to ensue. Nothing does last forever, and as much as I would have liked my student life to continue, it couldn’t. It can’t and now I’m left with brainstorming my new and (hopefully) improved life plans. There will be no more eating out of Baked Bean tins, no frequent visits to Dominos and certainly no weekly (3-4) nights out…

All I can do now is concentrate on my next chapter, just like my parents are, and now even my two year old nephew, who is now starting Nursery. Life is constantly rushing us towards the ‘career’ part of our lives; my childhood seems to have flickered past me. It was so easy back then (now I know why my Papa used to say that to me, he does have a point ya know); I wanted to be a vet one week, a fashion designer the next and now its music journalist.

Music journalist… Yeah, I’ll stick with that for now I think.

What I’m listening to RIGHT now...

One of my favourite hobbies is definitely browsing through the internet hoping I can stumble across a spine tingling remix, an “oldie but a verygoodie” or a more up-to-date track. Here’s what this week has brought me:

Drake and Aaliyah – ‘Enough Said’

There’s been slight controversy over the posthumous album of the R ‘n’ B star particularly as Missy Elliott and Timbaland have both denied any plans to be involved with it. The Drake co-produced album is set for release at the end of the year and will include 16 of Aaliyah’s unreleased tracks along with contributions from various other artists. ‘Enough Said’ has been the first release of the album and in my opinion, I think the ‘Take Care’ star has done a really good job. As a fan of Aaliyah, I have always been so disappointed that I only remember the release of ‘More than a Woman,’ being at the cusp of stardom and reigning the charts. So, it’s been really refreshing to listen to the 90’s star in a more contemporary surrounding, generating a younger fan base in the hope to continue her influence in the music industry.

Crystal Castles – ‘Plague’

The turbulent twosome are back! If you found yourselves favouring the likes of ‘Baptism’ and ‘Celestica’ from their previous album then you will LOVE this new addition to their discography. When I listened for the first time, I did not know that I was in for the build-up to the most tumultuous, melodic explosion yet. Glass gives a haunting, monotonous vocal accompaniment which gains pitch and excitement throughout, leaving you almost breathless and craving more of their infectious electro infusions, so I’m guessing you’ll be pressing that repeat button…

Very excited for the upcoming album!

Angus Stone – ‘River Love’

It was only a matter of time until both Stone siblings released solo albums and I’m so glad they did. Julia Stone’s The Memory Machine back in 2010 showed off her uniquely beautiful voice and talent and with Angus’ Broken Brights, he does the same, if not more. I instantly found a likeness between him and some of the greats, ie. Dylan or Young and found it revitalized the softer tones from the duo’s previous albums, as the violin riffs and heavier accompaniment shows fans Angus’ gallant effort to create a fearless debut solo album.

Released on July 16^th this year, but still hasn’t received the recognition it deserves. Other top tracks include ‘Only a Woman’ and ‘Broken Brights.’

Let me know what you think, or if there is something you need/want reviewing! 

XO

REVIEW: THE RAVEONETTES - 'She Owns the Streets.'

So, it is approx 3:00am and as usual I am faced with the terrible insomnia that proves to be the nemesis for those who can’t find work…

The Raveonettes, however, have made this much too long an evening into something worthwhile. I’ve been on the laptop for hours trying to find an inspirational song, or something which will make my skin tingle.  You know that kind of feeling you get when you believe at that moment in time, you are listening to THE best song ever written? Well yeah… that’s what I was searching for and it turns out, that old phrase (pretty sure I’m paraphrasing here) ‘if you don’t look for something/someone, you’ll find it,’ is very true. I’d been searching for hours with not much luck and was just about to give up when I came across the NEW single by The Raveonettes, ‘She Owns the Streets.’

I’m already a big fan of this Danish duo and they’ve struck gold again. I particularly love the story behind the music video. NME tells me the dancing woman in the camcorder taken shots are of a well- known New York City eccentric, Loan. Her luminous outfits and enchanting dance moves go hand in hand with the hypnotic Raveonette riff.

The whole song is based around her…

The lyrics enquire: ‘I wana know her, I wana ask her. I wana know when she did go wrong…’

The enigmatic Loan captivates her audience, but The Raveonettes give the perfect soundtrack to the life of this character.

The video was shot entirely with an old camcorder, and it really enhances the early 90’s sound it reminds me of. The first ten seconds had me instantly making comparisons with the distinguishable sounds of The Jesus and Mary Chain.  This cries out to the 80’s born girl I wish I was, as I could’ve experienced sounds like this every week if I wanted to. But when I say this, it makes this track even more appealing as it is refusing to submit to what is expected of ‘indie rock’ these days. If you want to make it big, think of a catchy tune and a handful of repetitive lyrics and you’ll get there. With The Raveonettes, they do this but in a way which allows them to make their own mark on the music industry of today, continuing to separate themselves from the likes of Coldplay who have lost themselves for years  in the auto-tuned haze of The Top 40.

Here is an original piece of music which has inspired me to stay up and write this blog, only to tell the world that I think their song is GREAT and must be loved by everyone who hears it.

If a band can do that, even at 3am in the morning, they must be pretty good…

Night all. XO

"You're the one that I want!"

Those six magic words…

 It’s what every aspiring music journalist wants to hear after emailing, ringing or writing to music websites or magazines when asking to be a part of their team.

Granted, only a few get back to you, but it only takes one…

Angus & Julia Stone - You're The One That I Want (Cover)

When I graduated University, I realised that I didn’t have enough experience, but it was only an e-mail away if I really wanted it. And I do, so that’s what I’ve been doing for the last few hours.

Selling yourself via e-mail is surprisingly easier than you’d think. It’s that old and trusty “cyber confidence” which creeps back in, what we all used to have back in the “MSN” days. You can sound impressive even when sitting in your jammies… BRILLIANT!

I spent the whole day biggin’ myself up, to the point where I felt nauseous and had to stop. I was reminded of my younger (much geekier) self; the one who would always have her hand up in class thinking ‘PICK ME! PICK ME!’ ‘Cos in actual fact, it’s the same sort of thing. You want to be picked from the millions of emails and phone calls. But after a while, it gets tiring so I decided to take a break…

The most demoralizing part of this whole process is the gut wrenching wait for the replies which might not ever come. It’s easy to say ‘Oh, don’t take it personally,’ but it’s certainly not easy to not take it to heart. Well, especially if you’re like me and wear your heart on your sleeve.

To stop myself from being in this slum, I have decided to take an alternative route… I shall become a pest. The pest who companies can’t avoid any longer as their inbox will be filled with all my ‘PICK ME’, ‘PICK ME’s. It’s not something I’d normally do if it involved me going up to their doors in person, but as it involves a bit of cyber confidence, I might be persuaded.

But, does that really work though? Or does it make you appear crazy and unable to take rejection? Once a week wouldn’t hurt…. Right? It surely just shows your enthusiasm… Hmmm, clearly I’m undecided myself.

I’ll give it a few days, No… I’ll give ‘em a week, ‘cos if you don’t pester, then it looks like you weren’t that bothered anyway, doesn’t it?

It appears I’m in a Catch-22 situation. Oh, boy… 

'The Best Things in Life are Free.'

Well, that’s what Janet Jackson says, but after being unemployed for nearly a month, hearing from none of the potential employers, I’ve got to say, I’m now a non-believer of this statement.

I’ve recently decided to take half a year/year out of searching for internships in music journalism as I’m still not entirely sure what the best angle is to get myself securely on that career ladder.  I realised I wasn’t ready and my CV was rather amateur when my Uncle came to stay and asked me what seemed to be a simple question: ‘So, what are your favourite music journalists then?’ I admit, I was embarrassed at my inability to answer sufficiently, or at all for that matter. Instead, I just stared blankly at him and came out with a mediocre response of ‘I just read the stuff, I don’t really know who they are.’ So… what if I had stepped into an interview and was asked that question? It’s pretty obvious I’m not the best “blagger” in the world, so I would have fallen flat on my face. Excellent work Charlie. Good job.

Thankfully, I have saved myself this future embarrassment and have chosen to expand my portfolio and email various music websites to see if I can write for them, whilst working in a less desired job to save for a move to the city where it all happens, London.  

But, what I really want to ask is: How many articles, must the aspiring journalists write for free before it starts getting de-motivating? We all want rewards (preferably money) when we succeed or produce a good piece of work. My reward this year was a degree. Can’t say fairer than that, but now what? I’ve got to slog it out for a year doing more and more unpaid work?

I know I sound like I’m whining… I guess I am, but can you blame me?

I’m more than willing to get myself out there to websites and write for them and others in order to increase my knowledge and ability, so I’ll just have to suck it up and hope that this will allow me to eventually be successful in my “dream job.” But I can’t say that I’m going to be doing it with a smile on my face throughout, ha…

I think confidence is something I need to work on as well before I really step into the real world. Those who get the paid jobs, carry that self-belief which is vital in success. If you ask yourself ‘Am I great at what I do?’ and more importantly, ‘Am I great?’ and are unable to answer positively, then there lies the problem… It’s all about trying to stand out from the crowd, but when you’re one in amongst millions of power grabbing graduates, it isn’t easy.

Maybe this blog just sounds like I’m making excuses, prolonging the inevitable, complaining about minor things which are only going to go in my favour in the end. That might be the case… But for now, I will listen to The Martinis and carry these lyrics around with me, in the hope to turn this negative mind set around…

            Talk to y’all later.

Ps. Here’s hoping that I even get a few opportunities in unpaid work… Let’s hope this blog doesn’t tempt fate…

See You at the Crossroads…

I graduated on Thursday and I’ve got to say, I don’t think I have ever been so scared in my life. I turned 21 the previous week and it was suddenly becoming more apparent that my childhood was waning and adulthood was waiting there to grab me by my metaphoric balls and throw me into a world of uncertainty. To be completely honest, I don’t think I’m ready… But then again, will I ever be? Is this just my old pal fear creeping up again, ready to stunt my aspirations? 

When I handed in my last assignment at University, I remembered receiving an array of ‘Congratulations’ messages and one in particular stuck in my mind. It was from my brother. It read: ‘Congrats Chix. So, when you getting a job then?’ My heart dropped. Job? Oh right yeah, that really important thing I need to get now I’ve left the bubble wrapped life of University for good. I was just planning on getting drunk for the next week to be honest… I realised, however, these questions were going to haunt me for the next few months and it seemed I may as well have recited a pre-made script as my only answers were ‘Not sure really,’ or ‘I just need money for now, so will work where I can and do writing on the side for free.’ ‘Writing on the side’ was my favourite response and then it hit me… Music journalism wasn’t going to be a realistic career choice for a long while.

I’ve sat, on numerous occasions, reading my printed article in ‘Lick’ magazine, feeling so proud of myself but now I’m in stalemate. I’m reliving my recent successes but I‘ve not allowed myself to have anymore.

The truth is, for the first time in my life, I’m at a crossroads. The road to University has been closed and I’ve now reached the next chapter of my life. My inability to use my initiative has cost me a variety of internships to various magazines, so I’m unable to be handed experience straight after graduating; which admittedly, I was expecting. I’m sure I’m not the only graduate who expects great job prospects in the exact field you want straight after full-time education, just because you have ‘BA Hons’ at the end of your name. In today’s world, it’s not necessarily the qualifications you earn, it is the experience. How, I wonder can graduates, like myself, be experienced, if companies are not willing to dish out any?

A song ‘Youth’ by Daughter struck me as quite appropriate to how I am feeling at the moment – at the brink off adulthood but still considering myself as a part of the ‘Wild youth.’

She says. “We are the reckless, we are the wild youth,” and she is correct. I feel reckless in terms of having no real direction in life at the moment and not sure when I’ll ever have something stable, like three years of University again…

A pre-recorded message from Michael Parkinson at my graduation brought an emotional wave over me as he declared: ‘You are at the threshold of life. Make the most of it.’ I found myself in that split second, teary eyed and riddled with self belief. So, here’s to the next 21 years.

The Only Thing to Fear is... SUCCESS.

It sounds silly, but I’m pretty sure we’ve all been in the predicament where fear stops you from doing something you have always wanted to do. Well, I hope I’m not on my own at least. I realised I was doing this exact thing when I was given an opportunity to volunteer at a local radio station. Literally down the road, two minutes away, yet I spent up to three weeks trying to pluck up the courage to actually fill out the form and hand it in. When I did, I experienced the denial phase… the phase where your head tells you that you’re never going to get in and for a moment it sort of relieves you. 

Hypocritical? Well yes, but it’s how I feel when I know I’m doing something which could eventually help me in the future. 

Self-destruction is my number one asset. Yaaay me! 

I started recently and it has probably been one of the best decisions of my life. I’d say even if you get an unpaid opportunity, it’s worth doing, ‘cos future employers are only wanting to see one thing on that shiny, Curriculum Vitae: experience. I mentioned I was really involved in writing, I guess it was pretty obvious from the BA Honours degree (which I am still reluctantly waiting to receive) but nonetheless, radio is what I’ve always dreamed of being a part of.

I remember it perfectly. In my family I have two older siblings and generally there would be a few items like a guitar, sometimes clothes or a tape recorder that would get passed down to me. None of us played the guitar, well not properly anyway. I thought it would be great to record myself plucking away at a 4 string, fantastically out-of-tune guitar and thought I was going to make it one day. Turns out the guitar took a back seat as I realised ‘Wow, I can record myself… Right that’s it. I’m going to create a radio show.’ Okay, so I was about 8 and the “charts” consisted of all the cassettes and CDs I had at the time. My era was the 90’s so you can expect an unnecessary amount of Hear’say, Steps and S Club 7 creeping in on my supposedly ‘up to date chart show.’ This is where I experienced radio properly for the first time. I’d record the songs on the UK top 40 on a Sunday afternoon and create my own version just afterwards… only for myself to enjoy, obviously. 

I had so much balls back then.  I could happily hear myself back, get my family to have a listen and get them involved… Now? I daren’t let anyone hear as I die of embarrassment. I don’t get it. You’re supposed to get more confident the older you get. This is something I’m clearly not getting the hang of. 

So anyway, my first day at the radio station consisted of research development: finding three pieces of celeb gossip and three pieces of odd or strange news. I was in my element. It’s easy to hide behind a computer and keep quiet while you hear the team confidently speaking to people on or off air. Then she asked me… ‘Do you want to read out what you’ve got in the studio? Just to see if it flows properly?’ My heart dropped. ‘Err? Okay.’ She could see my anxiety and reassured me that it wouldn’t be live; it’s just a little exercise. It wasn’t that I was worried about… It was hearing my voice back.

After a few trial reads I played it back and died a little… I guess it was silly of me to not expect having to do something like that but it shocked me all the same. 

So there you have it, got my foot in the door to somewhere, I can already see is going to challenge me. Even the small things. I plan to enter, a shy, 20 year old girl and come out as a confident, fearless woman. 

I have to believe in myself before I can achieve anything and this is something I’m yet to accomplish.  Wish me luck!

X

Media's a Bitch.

So it was just another day at the local radio station, doing my usual research development and a few odd jobs before signing out.

I was feeling pretty good today for a change. It’s amazing how a waist belt can make you feel all the more glamorous, clinching in that waist and giving you that false sense of security in yourself…

 I was faced with a rude awakening, however, when a DJ came waltzing in with his friend. I could tell he had been working there for a while as he carried himself confidently. I think I always confuse confidence with arrogance due to my own lack of self-esteem but it was obvious to all, that he really saw himself as “the dogs.” It was fine at first, as he was talking to his co-workers and I was barely in his eye line… until I was about to leave.

“Is this another volunteer then?” I looked up and responded as confidently as I could, only to find that it didn’t matter. He was going to swallow me whole and spit me out with his next remark. “Well… at least she’s not as skinny and small as the last one.” I stood there, a little bewildered, a little shocked and extremely horrified. I think I was waiting for a “Just kidding” or “Only joking duck” or some sort of half-arsed apology, but I got nothing. Instead I was faced with a man who was completely contented. He had not even thought about how I would take it and he didn’t even care. I smiled, which is what I do when I’m nervous, embarrassed and in this case gobsmacked. I could feel my cheeks burning and becoming a deeper shade of red as I continued to stand there, gormless. To make matters worse, he had decided to broadcast his ugly comment to the whole team, making me feel humiliated and crushed. It had taken him a mere five seconds to completely ruin any remaining source of happiness I had left in myself.  

His friend responded ‘Ha, I don’t think she knows how to take that.’ And the truth is; I didn’t. I didn’t know whether I should’ve told him exactly what I thought and literally hit him where it hurt, but I did neither.

What also annoyed me was my inability to respond. Why didn’t I have the balls to say something back? In fairness I didn’t want to say something that would jeopardise my position here but even if I could, I wouldn’t. Instead of me retaliating, I just stood there; blushed incredibly, left quickly, cried hysterically (I must note that this was not in front of him. At least I had some composure), and now starting to think of diet plans. Crazy isn’t it? One stupid comment from someone and it can instantly turn your life upside down and leave you momentarily destroyed.

I’ve got my first opportunity to be a runner tomorrow for the stations first ever live broadcast and instead of craving that extra experience, I am now more than willing to hand it over to someone else. The truth is, I can deal with criticism when it is involves my creativity as I believe we are always improving and an outsider’s opinion is a vital part of developing in this field. But when someone goes out to personally attack you, It’s always that little bit harder to come back fighting.      

Tomorrow will be a test; a test to see if I can take that pig-headed criticism and turn it into something positive. The more I feel like this, the more I think, he’s old, and you’re young and you have your whole life ahead of you. This is only the beginning for you.

As hard as criticism is to take, the world of Media is a bitch: It’s full of them and it is a “bitch” to get into. But the funny thing is, it makes it all the more exciting. 

Tissues at the ready and here I go…

MY FIRST ARTICLE: LICK MAGAZINE - NOTTINGHAM

One of the main reasons I decided to come to a Nottingham university shouldhave been based on the academia… But it wasn’t. It won me over with its reputable music scene. With new and old artists constantly circulating the city, it’s hard not to fall in love with a new artist each week. Let me introduce you to some of Nottingham’s finest:

It’s becoming more apparent that old Madge is slowly on the decline but it looks like the Midlands have something which might be of interest to the mourning fans of the eighties icon… Ronika. With help from Nile Rogers (who produced Madonna’s album, Like a Virgin), it looks like we could be re-visiting the world of big bows, lace gloves and shoulder pads once more. Even the artwork of Ronika’s new single Automatic (Released April 10^th) seems to emulate ‘Celebration’… So then, are we just being introduced to another Madonna imitator? Despite these similarities, Ronika does exude uniqueness in her sound along with a refreshingly, infectious, techno twang accompanying her. Disco has never been cooler, especially when a revitalised Odyssey track is used as a sample, fuel for Automatic’s success. This Nottingham artist combines sci-fi with disco, techno with pop and creates something genius - something which 2012 is desperately crying out for. With the likes of The Guardian, The Sunday Times and NME backing her, it looks like the debut album (released later this year) is already anticipated to be something unquestionably irresistible. If you haven’t already heard her, I’d strongly suggest a listen.

And with that I give one final word of advice, her recent collaboration with DJ/producer Herve in ‘How Can I Live without You (Make it Right)’ is something to get your ears around whilst basking in this summer sunshine. Its distinct 90s sound will re- welcome the baggy-pant-wearing crowds, allowing them to experience a new spin on tunes from their much loved music scene. Spread across social networking sites a mere few days ago, its already gaining high interest. Could this be the summer anthem of 2012?

‘BBC Introducing…’ found us The Tings Tings, Joy Formidable, Everything Everything, and more recently, Nottingham’s Navajo Youth. Back in 2010, Navajo Youth took to the BBC studios and performed for their Midland audience. 11,000 Youtube views and an E.P later; the new single Heartbreaker stands as a result of just how much the artist has evolved in the music field. Performing in festivals such as ‘T in the Park’ last year, a highly anticipated success is waiting in the wings. When watching the video of his new single I felt like I was taken back to a satisfyingly synthed Duran Duran, channelling a little Adam Ant, as the frontman seems to sport the uncannily quirky look. There seems to be a trend forming amongst some of these budding talents. Is Nottingham trying to brighten up the dark Midland skies with a little sparkle and punchy pop from the much loved 80’s? Navajo Youth’s embodies confidence which translates through his presence in the video – his belief in his music is really quite engaging.

Kappa Gamma; known in certain circles for their synchronized melodies and infectious indie hooks, are predicted an even larger fan base, facing an impressive line-up of festivals and an EP due this autumn. Between prog-pop vibes like Minus the Bear and the electro-punk sounds from Late of the Pier, you’ll find Kappa Gamma somewhere comfortably in the middle. The Midlands band supported Django Django at Nottingham’s Bodega, February of this year, receiving high praise. By also supporting aspiring talents, such as Dog is Dead and Swimming, Kappa Gamma are already gaining bigger recognition, especially in their hometown. If any of this takes your fancy, you can check out a preview of their debut single on vinyl, ‘Just Another’ online, right. now.

In a candid interview with the BBC back in 2010, Nottingham’s Liam Baileyadmits “Before I knew it, I went from nowhere to live, no money, to four record labels wanting to sign me”, regarding his offer from the world famous,Polydor. You may recognize his vocals in Chase and Status’ Blind Faith, released at the beginning of 2011, maintaining its popularity throughout a dance fuelled summer. With regards to Bailey’s solo career, unlike other Nottingham artists continuing the electro wave, Bailey introduces his touching take on soul to the music scene. He effortlessly exudes emotion from his fingertips which translates through his acoustic, accompanying his poignant lyrics, as he does in You Better Leave Me. With help from labels Polydor and Lioness, he released E.Ps in autumn 2010 and the following year produced his debut album Out of the Shadows with the accompaniment of The Fugees’ Salaam Remi. Currently touring with Rita Ora, this is only the beginning for the momentous Liam Bailey.

The petebox’s ‘Future Loops’ (Released 11^th April), consists of many reinvented songs, such as ‘MGMT’s’ “Kids” and ‘Nirvana’s’  “Lithium”  alongside an extremely effective loop pedal as his wingman. Not to take away too much from his talent, he should be credited for his ever growing success, performing in huge festivals such as ‘Bestival,’ ‘Reading and Leeds,’ and ‘Glastonbury’, already deserving of recognition for his ability to combine beat-boxing, singing, a guitar and mixing into something worth listening to – creating a whole soundtrack to his music himself. Confidence comes with covering a track which already owns its distinctive sound and is respected worldwide. When I heardThepetebox’s interpretation of Pixie’s ‘Where is my Mind?’, however, all my scepticism disappeared and I soon realised my narrow-mindedness. I had heard something refreshingly cool and aloof. If I’m honest, it kinda blew my mind.  He was scouted in 2005 when he became champion of BBC Radio 1’s beat-boxing competition and his career has flourished ever since. As well as being released on CD, there are live studio performances of his up and coming album available on Youtube. It’s highly recommended that you give him a listenand a watch to get a real sense of how Thepetebox does what he does, and so well too.