James Arden checks out the garage rockers latest album.
The Christian rock band from Brighton bring religion to the masses.
Recipe for modern R'n'B album: liberal helpings of guest rappers and an overdose of sexual euphemisms.
The American Idol 2009 champ from Arkansas may have won the voting public over with his soothing classic voice and organic take on club classics (see video), but his record boasts some serious songwriting skills, with credits on 8 of 13 tracks. In a world of Autotune, Kris’s pure sound and lack of overproduction is like a breath of fresh air to the music industry, with instant appeal upon first listening. From upbeat toe-tapping numbers to simple guitar tracks placing you around a campsite fire, it’s difficult to find something not to like on this debut. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s certainly one of the best crafted pop albums of the year.
Highlights: ‘Can’t Stay Away’ carries some swagger, and its funk brings a little early 00s Maroon 5 nostalgia. On the opposite scale, ‘I Need to Know’ is brutally raw and delves into daring darker territory, reminiscent of Damien Rice.
For fans of: Jason Mraz, Paolo Nutini, The Script, Colbie Caillat, James Morrison
You may have already heard Adam’s ‘Time for Miracles’ in the credits of 2012, or about his scandalous performance at the AMAs. He may be controversial for his campy performance style, but he has gained a legion of die-hard fans with his one-of-a-kind voice. Adam brings back glam rock, fusing it with Gaga-esque electro-pop. There are some tracks which strike a familiar chord with 70s disco, and yet at the same time manage to sound unbelievably current. Credit must go to the flawless command he has over his boundless voice, managing to conquer both the softness of power ballads and sharp edginess of dance tracks. Watch this space; this guy could be the next big thing...
Highlights: The beautiful ‘Whataya Want from Me’ (see video) builds up his voice from remarkably gentle to powerful towards the end, while at the opposite end of the spectrum ‘Strut’ possesses all the great qualities of a dance-pop hit.
For fans of: Lady Gaga, David Bowie, Queen, Depeche Mode, Goldfrapp
I have no qualms in saying this 17-year-old has one of the best teen voices of the decade. But don’t write her off as ‘yet another teen artist’, because she rocks harder than any of her contemporaries’ Disney-pop. Citing one of her main influences as Pink (‘No One Else’ was even written by her), it can definitely be heard here. Allison possesses one of those instantly recognisable voices; a smooth caramel-like tone combined with the perfect rock growl. She wields it with masterful skill while dipping in and out of pop, hard-rock, dance, blues and even a smidgeon of country. Probably one of my favourites this year, Just Like You is a very promising start for this up-and-coming artist.
Highlights: ‘Don’t Waste the Pretty’ has become an instant favourite due to promo acoustic covers which have succeeded in giving me chills (see video, complete with 30-second interview package), while ‘Holiday’ really gives her a chance to rock out, and ‘Scars’ showcases her much softer side.
For fans of: Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Anastacia, Heart, Avril Lavigne
‘Kris Allen’, ‘For Your Entertainment’ and ‘Just Like You’ are all available now online at HMV and Amazon. The first two can also be found on iTunes and Spotify.
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