Blog Archive

Jana Kramer


Click to watch Jana Kramer, Love.

Martina McBride


Click to watch Martina McBride, Come See About Me.

Lindsay Ell


Click to watch Lindsay Ell, Trippin' On Us.

Labels

Music Video (1918) Pop (534) R and B (378) Pop Rock (241) Dance-pop (169) Alternative Rock (168) Country (166) Hip hop (150) Synthpop (130) Soul (129) Electropop (128) Indie pop (104) American Idol (75) Rock (75) Dance (67) Indie Rock (65) Folk (48) Electronic (45) House (45) Folk Rock (40) Pop Punk (40) Movie Trailer (39) Album (32) New Wave (32) Electro House (31) Soft Rock (27) Acoustic (26) Dance Pop (26) Hard Rock (26) Alternative (25) Drama (21) Dubstep (21) Electro Pop (21) Baroque Pop (20) Blue-eyed soul (20) Alternative Hip Hop (19) Blues (16) Eurodance (16) Folk Pop (16) Jazz (16) Reggae (16) Warner Bros (15) Electro (14) Adult contemporary (12) Alternative Metal (12) Ballad (12) DVD (11) Acoustic Rock (9) Classical (8) TV series (8) Bluegrass (6) Urban (4)

Cassadee Pope


Click for more on Cassadee Pope: Frame By Frame.

Allstar Weekend Finds Fleeting Love In "Blame It on September"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Monday, October 31, 2011 0 comments

Summer is all about crazy adventures and that care free spirit but unfortunately all good things must come to an end. Don't blame it on global warming, but blame it on September! Or at least that's how Allstar Weekend suggests we cope. Allstar Weekend has released their new music video for their single "Blame It On September," the second single comes from their latest sophomore album, "All The Way." The video tells a sweet story of summer love that sadly ends in September.
With a perfectly timed release, "Blame It On September" rues an expired summer romance. But instead of blaming the split on all the crazy ish your ex has done to you, Allstar Weekend firmly believes it's the month of September's fault. The San Diego rockers shot the video in Toronto during their recent tour with Selena Gomez. Frontman Zach Porter said, "The song is about the transitions the month of September brings, whether it's the end of a summer romance, going off to college and moving away from friends, or even parents sending their kids off to school."
The concept of the video was inspired directly and closely mirrors the true story of the song, with Porter experiencing a summer romance that sadly comes to an end in September when his crush goes away to school. It's a lot like the real-life situation Porter wrote the song about. Porter explains the story behind the song to BOP and Tiger Beat, spilling: "During the summer between my 9th and 10th grade year, I met a girl and we hung out all summer. I was in love with her...but at the end of summer, she broke it off. I was so bummed."
Directed by Colin Minihan, the video mainly consists of a flashback to all the fun summer activities a cute, young couple could ever dream of. There's the outdoor carnival, the bike riding, the driving with the top down and the couple-y movie night with friends. and naturally the female lead sported some salt water laden hair, effortless tank tops and makeup that magically didn't sweat down her face. The video comes to a close with a gratuitous shot of the couple having a quintessential summer picnic while reclining on the grass and looking up at the balmy summer sky.

NERVO spend a laid-back carefree summer in "We're All No One"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Sunday, October 30, 2011 0 comments

NERVO, twin sisters Olivia and Miriam, have released the music video for their debut single "We're All No One," which means it's time to get your groove on, featuring superstar DJ's Steve Aoki and Afrojack. The song, is a up-tempo bouncy club track, on which the girls show off their vocal skills, may seem like a departure for the girls, but fear not NERVO fans: That's how they planned it. The video has an distinct, chilled-out, old-school feel to it.
The twin sister from Australia have made quite a name for themselves as one of the most-sought-after DJ duos in dance music. The girls have penned hit tracks for Kylie Minogue, The Pussycat Dolls, Jennifer Hudson and more. Their big break-through as songwriters came when they wrote Guetta's world-wide smash "When Love Takes Over" featuring Kelly Rowland, which tops charts across the globe and went on to win a Grammy in 2010. Now for the first time, the pair will step in front of the mic and launch themselves as bona fide recording artists.
NERVO operate like something of a hive mind, finishing each other's sentences enthusiastically and often. Not only have these girls been traveling around the world with Britney Spears and Nicki Minaj on Britney's Femme Fatale tour, they have somehow found time to make their own music and we love it! The new track from Femme Fatale openers NERVO is a definite disco stomper, "We're All No One" gleams with infectious POP hooks and gorgeous piano riffs that will leave you soaked in sweat on the dance floor.
Now it's their turn to step up to the mic. The video was directed by DJ Skeet, and filmed in Van Nuys, California. "It was kind of scary because it was the first-ever video that we've been in, so we didn't know what to expect," Miriam said. This carefree video features the Aussie dance divas hanging out with their friends, cruising the streets on their bikes and in cars, and finishing it all off with a late-night pool party. It seems like the perfect way to spend a laid-back summer day, but according to these girls, looks can be deceiving.

Ne-Yo hits club with Trey Songz & T-Pain in "The Way You Move"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Saturday, October 29, 2011 0 comments

Ne-Yo enlists fellow R&B crooners Trey Songz and T-Pain, to join him spend a night by hitting a gentleman's club to bring their collaboration to life in the stripper-filled erotic clip for their joint track "The Way You Move," a song sure to be blasting out of a radio near you pretty soon. Awash in blue, red and purple lights, the three R&B power houses continue to drop impassioned one-liners, while enjoying the sultry show of lap and pole dancing.
The sensual and auto-tuned ballad song is recorded for DJ Boy Wonda's latest mixtape "Tough Love." It's to tide fans over while the three of them are preparing for their own albums. Ne-Yo is working on the follow-up to 2010's "Libra Scale," Songz is working on a new effort called "Chapter 5," while T-Pain is going to release "RevolveR" on December 6.
In this smoothed out track, the cleanly dressed dress trio hit the club to watch their favorite ladies move together and sing about their adoration and infatuation with the sexy dancers who they've falling for, simple because of the way she moves. The video does not stray far from that theme. "The Way You Move" gives each crooner their shine and they deliver very nicely. The video is definitely for the grown and sexy, with plenty of eye candy for the fellas.
In the provocative Clifton Bell-helmed visual, the guys hit the strip club where they meet one dancer who's considering giving all of it up. While a typically dapper Ne-Yo serenades an exotic dancer that has caught his eye. As he pleads with her to not quit her night gig, and encourage her to keep "doing what's in her soul." Songz is also looking dandy in a black tuxedo as he watches his favorite lady work the pole, while woefully croons of his beloved stripper. To complete the trifecta, T-Pain who has plenty of experience of being in love with strippers, makes his attempt to keep his favorite exotic dancer with the golden moves working.

Daughtry rocking out loud to lost love for "Crawling Back To You"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Friday, October 28, 2011 0 comments

Daughtry have premiered a super simplistic performance video for their new single "Crawling Back To You," the first official cut from the band's upcoming third LP "Break the Spell," comes out November 21. The enormous success of the group's first two records suggests that Daughtry probably wouldn't be eager to tweak too much, and they don't. That means familiar downcast verses that open up into a soaring chorus from singer Chris Daughtry, fourth-place finisher on 'American Idol' in Season 5.
Once again the band have teamed up with producer Howard Benson for this mid-tempo, pop-rock heart-tugger. Musically, "Crawling Back To You" pretty much sounds like everything else they have ever put out but has a stronger edge to it and that only means one thing - It's a good song. It starts off a little slow and may put you off a little but once the song is past the first verse, it really gets going with strong guitar chords; add Chris rock yet soul infused vocal abilities and throw in the pain of one lost love. Once on the chorus, Chris lets loose and sings about swallowing his pride and crawling back to the person he loves.
The anticipated clip is simple yet fitting for the lead single. The band fronted by Chris are rocking out loud in a shiny spacious place. Guitar-blaring and drum-smacking sound as well as Chris' screaming voice fill the empty building. "We wanted it to be a performance video not necessarily based on any narrative or story," Chris said of the clip. The "American Idol" alum also gushed, "Whenever I do a video I have a hard time faking it. I always lose my voice at the end of a video shoot because I give it all every single take."
The North Carolina band seems to have found the perfect equation for success on any single. Much like a Nickelback song, Daughtry has a recognizable sound. Many may say this is just another Daughtry factory made song but this new venture goes deeper into the band lyrics and shows Chris pushing his vocals. "Break the Spell" is a continuation of the raw rock sound that his fans are familiar with, and might cast a new spell on old and new fans alike. Perhaps there's something to be said for finding a successful sound and sticking with it. But "Crawling Back to You" sounds like every Daughtry song we've ever heard.

Christina Perri Debuts "A Thousand Years" From 'Breaking Dawn'

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Thursday, October 27, 2011 0 comments

Christina Perri has released the video for her contribution to "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 1" movie soundtrack tune, "A Thousand Years," hit on Web Wednesday. Would you wait a thousand years for the love of your life? Well, Perri plans on waiting basically forever in her new video "A Thousand Years." To be in love with someone for a one thousand years is more than most of us can fathom, but a lovestruck Perri isn't afraid to run a marathon for love.
The 25-yesr-old talked a little about the guitar-driven song and its meaning. She explains, "For me, it just has to do most with the love story between Edward and Bella." The romance is not without its difficulties, and Perri says, "I feel like it's 'Romeo and Juliet,' and they just happen to be vampires and there's werewolves." Definitely, and that is what makes it so romantic. The "Jar of Hearts" singer tries to explain what kind of song fans can expect, "pretty, classical and simple." None of the techno stuff. Just Perri's soulful voice creating an ghostly melody.
The song is the perfect complement for one of the most romantic stories of all time. Like Perri says, "I wrote [the song] for Edward and Bella in their perspective. It's the purest love song I think I could have possibly written. It's about the simplest kind of love and a timeless love." Timeless, as in immortal vampires spending the rest of eternity together. My favorite singer is a self-proclaimed 'Twilight' fan and was over the moon when she was asked to put something together for the film. She reveals, "The fact that my dream came true... still blows my mind, and I don't think I've fully processed it yet."
a solemn-looking Perri guides us to her candle-filled sanctuary that overlooks the ocean in the phenomenal video for the romantic tune. It cuts back and forth from Perri decked out in a gown, singing the passionate lyrics of the song while surrounded by tea lights to scenes from the upcoming movie, including Bella and Edward's wedding scene and all that honeymoon hotness. Although this particular song is not the actual wedding song, it is perfect for the montage of romantic clips seen throughout the video.

Snow Patrol Get Emotional In "This Isn't Everything You Are"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Wednesday, October 26, 2011 0 comments

Snow Patrol has dropped their latest video for their song "This Isn't Everything You Are" to the web. The song is the second single to be taken from the Irish alternative rock band's forthcoming sixth studio album "Fallen Empires," due out on November 14th. This time, the boys are playing in a tango bar where they show us there's no better way to solve our disputes than with a little dance. The song is the soundtrack to the evening.
Following their lead single "Called Out in the Dark," the powerful and meaningful Gary Lightbody-penned "This Isn't Everything You Are" is an emotionally charged slow number that allows the band to do what they do best. Snow Patrol makes the kind of songs that you love more every-time you listen to them. Then you just get addicted to them. This new song is more traditional Snow Patrol. It sees the band back to usual business, penning massive, string laced, soaring rock ballads. As far as things go, this one's pretty decent.
The good thing about Snow Patrol is that compared to their contemporaries, they're still banging out high quality tracks like this - their staying power is somewhat remarkable, and it's the steadfast power, weight and meaty guitar crunch of tracks like this that prove they have every right to still be around. Seemingly try to tell us the solution to all the problems in your life is to spontaneously burst into a choreographed bit of ballroom dancing, we have to admit that Snow Patrol's "This Isn't Everything You Are" video does act to think out of the box somewhat.
Filmed in a grotty tango club in the beautiful city of Buenos Aires in Argentina, Snow Patrol become the house band and taking a back seat to the buzzing nightlife of their surroundings in Brett Simon-directed new promo, which tells the emotional story of various couples in love through the art of dance - the results are subtle yet affecting. The video mainly showcases front runner Lightbody and the band as the 'house act' at this tango club, and witnessing the picturesque nightlife of the Argentine capital. It is Snow Patrol's new era and simply amazing!

Scotty McCreery Goes Back to School In "The Trouble With Girls"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Tuesday, October 25, 2011 0 comments

Scotty McCreery returns to his hometown high school in Garner, North Carolina, and choosing his own classmates and his love interest over actors to play themselves as the set for his new "The Trouble With Girls" video. The second single from his debut album "Clear as Day," finds the Season 10 American Idol champ navigating the world of teenage romance, and singing about the number one preoccupation for most teenagers: girls. The video effectively captures the slice-of-life high school experience that most American teenagers endure.
McCreery sought approval for the song from one particular girl - his sister. He sings over a delicate piano to begin the song. There's confidence and maturity beyond his experience as he never over sings the moment. This twangy ballad "The Trouble With Girls," is raw, vulnerable and memorable. It's his make-it-or-break-it moment, and McCreery never matches the energy brought to the song by the heavy instrumentation, leading one to wonder if he was even in the room when those parts were added. The 'American Idol' ride is just about over, making him just another country artist until he proves his mettle with a few hits in a row.
"The Trouble With Girls," says McCreery, is that nobody loves trouble as much as he does. So even when said girls are a mystery and a puzzle and so dang pretty and are busying stealing you with hello and killing you with goodbye, he still loves them. "They're funny... you know? You just never know what they're thinking, and they never know what we're thinking as guys, but that's what kinda makes that relationship thing and the girls and boys thing pretty cool," McCreery said in a recent radio interview. "So it's kind of like a little puzzle. Like the song says, you've just gotta figure it out sometimes."
Directed by Roman White, the cross-wearing American Idol crooner's new visual is as wholesome as apple pie or kissing grandma at a family picnic. In fact, the country newbie doesn't seem to have much so-called trouble with the female set here, as it even features the teen crooner doing what he does best - playing baseball, having a good old time, and keeping the home town spirit alive. Flirting his way through chemistry class, the 18-year-old reminds fans that despite his mature baritone and speedy rise to superstardom, he's still a girl-crazy teenager at heart.

The Airborne Toxic Event Unveiled "All I Ever Wanted" Video

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Monday, October 24, 2011 0 comments

The Airborne Toxic Event have a new video out for their latest single "All I Ever Wanted," the second single off Los Angeles based indie-rock band's sophomore album, "All at Once" released back in April. These five extraordinarily talented musicians are more than just a band; they are a life affirming experience, and "All I Ever Wanted" beautifully captures them at their pinnacle. It's a fairly straightforward video with a cool ending.
"All I Ever Wanted" is not a concert film, it's a documentary about the struggles, pain and persistence of being in a family. This family happens to be a rock band. "All I Ever Wanted" chronicles the journey and starts in the same way that many of the band's songs do. A man is lying awake in bed, perhaps with a woman or a stiff drink next to him, and he is worrying about the future. "I can feel myself turning into my father," singer Mikel Jollett says over a high-neck guitar figure and spacious bassline. Then his troubles turn existential "I shudder when I think I might not be here forever."
There is something undeniably authentic about The Airborne Toxic Event. Their success has been predominantly organic, with word spreading about them thanks to word of mouth. A rock band with classical connotations, they garnered international recognition with their breakout hit without record label backing. There's a sense of urgency to their songs. Their lyrics tell of heartbreak, loss and the dark places we've all found ourselves, but there's an undeniable sense of euphoria in their music, and their live shows are nothing short of joyous.
Directed by Jon Danovic, and was shot in the hills in the north of Los Angeles. The video, like the song, is loosely based on the short story "The Hitchhiking Game" by Milan Kundera. The clip may play it safe with the storyline of boy meets girl, but to be perfectly honest, it's a big relief after what we experienced from this little band in their last video. With Nora Kirkpatric of Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros and Jesse Hoy of the Deadly Syndrome lending their acting chops, snippets of musicianship are sequenced in with the sentimental relationship bits.

Kelly Rowland Steams Things Up In "Down For Whatever" Video

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Sunday, October 23, 2011 0 comments

Quick on the heels, after body surfing over a sea of shirtless, oiled-up men in her steamy "Lay It on Me" video, which dropped just a little over a week ago, Kelly Rowland is at it again with more racy visuals. This time she's premiering a clip for her Euro-dance, "Down for Whatever." It is tenth and the closing song on Rowland's latest third solo album, "Here I Am." The concept for both videos is similar, and Rowland strips to various skimpy outfits like what she did in the "Lay It on Me" clip.
"Here I Am" is predominately a R&B and pop music album with subtle influences of dance music. It follows Rowland's assertion that "no one puts her in a box" and common themes include lyrics about womanhood and sexual intimacy. It doesn't stray far from the scantily clad dance themes of its predecessor, the 30-year-old former Destiny's Child singer is a true ride-or-die chick in the RedOne co-produced track, rocking a blunt bob while in the nude with some strategically placed spotlights to leave just enough to the imagination.
Rowland got a little more creative with her wardrobe and decided that perhaps beams of light and a hot set of pumps would be more much more figure-flattering. The sexalicious clip for "Down For Whatever" takes place in a small, boxy room with a lots of flashes of colored light and frenetic imagery. Rowland teases the camera with her sexy dancing while bathed in blue light, all the while singing her song about being the cool, chill girl who is, well, down for whatever comes her way.
The music videos have fleeting lifespans these days. The Sarah Chatfield-directed "Down For Whatever" looks like one extended fashion show to us. When the black light goes on, it turns into a particularly sexed up scene, too. It's animalistic yet it never devolves into trashy, which is always a distinct possibility with pop stars when they gyrate in a music video. Overall, it's very tribal and primal, since Rowland throws off that type of electric sexual energy. This video is dense with colors, feeling and eroticism.

Nicole Scherzinger Heartache Among The Ruins In "Try With Me"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Saturday, October 22, 2011 0 comments

Sprung quite the surprise on her fans, Nicole Scherzinger has dropped a clean and green nature concept video to go with her single "Try With Me," the cut is the lead single from the pop vixen's debut solo album "Killer Love," which is ser to be re-released with bonus material in Europe on November 14, and will come out in the United States on December 6. The former lead vocalist of The Pussycat Dolls looks serene as she blends in with the nature.
Scherzinger blasts back to the music scene with the release of her fifth single "Try With Me," which was penned by dance-duo Nervo and produced by Danish mixer Soulshock and Karlin. The dance ballad showcases Scherzinger's powerful vocals by stripping them bare in a slow, melodic beginning which builds to a powerful crescendo as the dance beat drops. The song is quite simply a boiling hot mess, and its accompanying clip doesn't redeem either.
From starting out as a reality show contestant to fronting one of the world's most famous collectives, singer-songwriter-dancer-actor Scherzinger has firmly established herself as a solo artist. And coming full circle, the hard work of the past two years have culminated in joining Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and LA Reid on the judging panel of one of the biggest TV launches of the year, US X-Factor. At this stage, there really is no point beating about the bush when it comes to Scherzinger and this project.
Comes from direction hands of Aaron Platt and Joseph Toman, the video finds the 33-year-old singer is surrounded by a tropical oasis, playing the opening verse on a mossy grand piano in front of a waterfall. As the track turns into a dance anthem, the former Pussycat Doll starts to explore, twirling among ruins, and romping around a breathtaking Xilitla rainforest in a rural Mexican village. It's a pretty simple visual with not much in the way of plot or effects, but after the underrated "Don't Hold Your Breath" failed to catch on here in the States, everyone involved is likely playing it safe.

Coldplay Escaping Through Fantasy & Find Heaven In "Paradise"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Friday, October 21, 2011 0 comments

Coldplay has unleashed the video for "Paradise," the second single from British alternative rock band's upcoming fifth album "Mylo Xyloto," set for release on next Tuesday. Coldplay's music may not be for everybody, but their music videos tend to be universally transcendent. The giddy new clip is a pachyderm-filled romp which features Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, dressed in a plushy elephant costume, embarking on a unicycle trip in South Africa. That's the takeaway from the sweet, whimsical video.
Influenced by listening to Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan, the song finds Martin singing of a young girl's dashed hopes and dreams of paradise. Martin told Billboard magazine that "Mylo Xyloto" is a concept album, which is, "loosely a kind of romance in an oppressive environment." "Paradise" is a far moodier affair than previous single "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall," whose title is even included in "Paradise"'s lyrics, with dramatic strings and chords and just the right touch of melancholy for the onset of the fall season. The new video finally explains what that was all about.
Regarding this song's meaning, it is easier to explain in the context of the album. Martin told MTV News "Mylo Xyloto" is a story, explaining: "It's supposed to be about two people who grow up separately in a very big oppressive city, and they each are a bit lost in their lives." He added that the pair meet in a gang and fall in and out of love before getting back together at the end. The singer went on to say: "'Paradise' is about a girl really, the female half of the album, just about being a bit lost in the world and escaping through fantasy."
The clip was directed by Mat Whitecross, and it retains the sort of warmth and humor he tends to bring to the table. The video is exactly as track's title might suggest: nostalgic filters, honeyed, sun-drenched shots of Cape Town, and all bandmates dressed up. The video portrays a classic break-free scenario that begins Martin dressed as an elephant escapes from a zoo in London, takes a unicycle trek through South Africa, and ends up after a seemingly hopeless wonder comes across three other elephants (the rest of Coldplay) playing the song in the fields, all set to soaring anthemic refrains and catchy beats. It's kooky, but it works.

Britney Spears Gets Steamy With Her "Criminal" Boyfriend

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Thursday, October 20, 2011 0 comments

Britney Spears certainly had everyone talking when she dropped her steamy and already deemed controversial video for her new single "Criminal," the fourth official single from her worldwide smash "Femme Fatale" album. The 29-year-old pop princess and her real-life boyfriend Jason Trawick play a modern Bonnie and Clyde-style duo who play out their passions with little inhibition. It is guilty of being really racy, and more like a sizzling fantasy than just another music video.
Considered the only ballad of the album, "Criminal" is a guitar-driven midtempo track which incorporates a flute riff and a killer melodic chorus. This Max Martin and Shellback produced dark, downbeat tune finds Spears sings about being in love with an outlaw and pleads to her mother to understand why she's in love with a shady character and not worry about their relationship. It's influenced by the works of ABBA and Madonna, and the subject matter is similar to another disapproving parent-tune, Madonna's "Papa Don't Preach."
The accompanying porno for the song was filmed in Stoke Newington district of London and directed by Chris Marrs Piliero. It is set to follow the relationship between a woman in upper society and her lover. While the story line get moderately violent and steamy, the engaging film-like plot is too good for such a dreary song. The idea to include Trawick in the video was all Spears's, but director Piliero wasn't sure he was so into it. Now, the Bonnie and Clyde-themed visual has been officially released, and gun violence is just the tip of the iceberg.
As Spears and her abusive beau make their way out of the upscale party, with him yelling at her for standing up for herself as he flirted with other girls, they come across Trawick, who is playing one really hot bad guy with a heart of gold. The boyfriend slaps Spears, and he comes to her rescue Spears from an abusive relationship, then leads Spears on a crime spree that's, naturally, frequently interrupted so the two setting into motion their very hot and very naked love affair that some critics consider extreme, even by Spears' standards.

Justin Bieber Spreads Early Holiday Cheer Under The "Mistletoe"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Wednesday, October 19, 2011 0 comments

Ready for the holidays? Justin Bieber kicked off the Christmas season two months early when he sat down with MTV News Tuesday night during "MTV First: Justin Bieber" to talk about his new holiday-themed album, "Under the Mistletoe," hits CD shelves on November 1st, and premiere his video for the album's lead single, "Mistletoe." Bieber spreads early Christmas spirit in this new video, and is announced to ring in 2012 New Year's Eve with Lady GaGa.
"Mistletoe" is a slow ballad that has a sound reminiscent of Bruno Mars or Jack Johnson. Unlike many traditional Christmas songs, the music has a reggae vibe and rhythm to it, which definitely gives it a unique sound. If this is the musical direction that Bieber is taking on this new album, then he might grow his fan base even more. The 17-year-old admitted he's never shared a special moment under the holiday plant.
Here is the story about the kissing-under-the-mistletoe tradition: "At Christmas time a young lady standing under a ball of mistletoe, brightly trimmed with evergreens, ribbons, and ornaments, cannot refuse to be kissed. Such a kiss could mean deep romance or lasting friendship and goodwill. If the girl remained unkissed, she cannot expect not to marry the following year. In some parts of England the Christmas mistletoe is burned on the twelfth night lest all the boys and girls who have kissed under it never marry."
The Roman White-directed video was shot in Franklin, Tennessee last month. It features Bieber decked out in holiday finery and frolicking in the snow as he sings about spending time under the mistletoe with his leading lady, Allie Williams. The Canadian singing sensation is seen spending the holiday with the girl of his dreams, buying her gift and taking her to a romantic date every girl could have ever hoped for. Bieber sings his little heart out on a snow-covered street while taking steps to show the lady in his life that she's the only one for him. They cruise away and the video fades out with them dancing and kissing under the mistletoe.

James Morrison & Jessie J make 'Up' handsome estranged couple

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Tuesday, October 18, 2011 0 comments

British blue-eyed soul singer James Morrison has teamed up his fellow countrywoman, the always colorful Jessie J to release their brand-new collaborative video for their soft, dreamy and romantic ballad new single "Up," the second single from Morrison's recent chart-topping album "The Awakening," which he told the news site is different enough from his older work to let people know what the new album will sound like, but not so different it will alienate fans.
The soft-focus pop soul duet with Jessie, is simply a repeat run of his collaboration with Nelly Furtado, right down to the lack of chemistry between the two singers. Morrison said he was honored the pop heavyweight had teamed up with him for the ending of the guitar-driven number. Morrison recently told Digital Spy of working with the 'Who You Are' star: "[It was] pretty intense. I was s**ting myself to be honest! She's sassy and an amazing pop star. She doesn't normally record tracks that she hasn't written herself, so I felt pretty privileged that she agreed to do it."
The video for the collaboration features the pair playing an estranged couple, as described in the pop ballad's lyrics. The clip follows Morrison wandering his way 'Up' through an abandoned-looking building while Jessie is seated in her top-floor apartment, singing and looking serious. At one point, they are back to back in the same room, singing. The video sets up these varying moments of tension and preps for them to eventually head up to the rooftop where they sing their heartfelt lines to one another, and try working out whatever issues which drew them apart.
The singers emote quite a bit and call for each other to stop doing "parade of excuses." As the sun begins to set, so both are drenched in sunlight for a few seconds, and household objects in their room begin to spontaneously explode, and the two singers end things by staring off into the sky at the edge of the roof. This video certainly shows us a more muted side of the normally rainbow-ish Jessie. She's subdued and muted, but still conveys plenty with her beautiful voice. She and Morrison have voices that mesh well together and the video's sad nature will get you thinking. It's not a super dramatic climax, but it still works.

Beyoncé Busts a 1980's Classic Boyband Move In "Love on Top"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Monday, October 17, 2011 0 comments

Following the October 6 release of her video, "Countdown," Beyoncé continues to churn out new material for her fans' viewing pleasure, and has just unleashed the super-simplistic, albeit effective visuals for her throwback-feeling midtempo number "Love On Top," a track that deserves some love outside of any outside drama, and this time around, she's fronting an all-male group and taking the dance floor for a classic routine inspired by 80's boybands.
The mother-to-bey, Beyoncé gives thanks to a lover for putting her "Love on Top" in a soulful pop tune, her forth single from the album, "4." As a modern take on old school music, this mid-'80s R&B influenced tune finds Beyoncé singing about a man in her life who can do no wrong in her eyes. The up-tempo R&B song's retro elements are further illustrated by its use of finger snaps and a melding of horns as well as sweet backing harmonies, especially in the bridge and the chorus of the song. "Love on Top" is both a sweet love song and an expression of girl power.
Just a couple hours after announcing her pregnancy, Beyoncé performed a spectacular version of "Love on Top" at the Video Music Awards, and it was one of the sweetest impromptu moments of the night. Talking about inspirations behind the video, Beyoncé said, "I had an idea for the video based on some of my favorite male groups. I remember seeing videos from New Edition, the Jackson 5 and The Temptations, bands I love for their beautiful harmonies, and precise choreography and I always wanted to make a video and be part of a boy group myself. It was so much fun."
Set in a brightly lit warehouse, the Queen of R&B wearing a plain black leotard, stockings, high-top sneakers, and medal-adorned military cap to show off her figure in the energetic and retro-inspired video. The beauty of the clip truly lies in its simplicity with Beyoncé wearing a pilot's hat with a black leotard as she dances while joined by an all-male backup crew engaging in some lots of fancy footwork, while turning her dance rehearsal into a full-blown performance.

David Guetta and Usher Go Continent-hopping for "Without You"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Sunday, October 16, 2011 0 comments

French DJ-turned-dance music producer David Guetta is closing in on a banner 2011, and spreads love and unites the world with his powerful beat in a newly-premiered video for his electro-ballad club-ready song "Without You," featuring syrupy, plaintive and anguished vocals care of R&B crooner Usher, is the third single from Guetta's latest guest-happy, star-studded and hit-filled solo Lp, "Nothing but the Beat," which dropped in August.
Guetta told Billboard magazine it's "maybe the biggest song I've made in my life." Guetta also told MTV News why he chose Usher to guest on this song. "It's just totally emotional," he said. "Some of the record is a proper ballad, and then it goes to that crazy dance beat. It's perfect for him, because he's famous for his ballads. And he's also now famous for those big club records that he comes with. He's an amazing dancer, so I felt like he was the artist that I needed."
The gripping and suggestive video for "Without You" demonstrates the universal, connective power of music. It's certainly not a new sentiment, but it's made in a unique way, courtesy of this video. The French DJ turns up the music to pump up the crowd while Usher belts out the lyrics to convey the message. "Every continent is [coming] back together and it's one big party and there's no more different continents, there's no more different colors - we're all the same and we're all together," explained Guetta. "That's what the video is and that's what the music is."
The promo opens with a little intercontinental flavor, driving home the fact that Guetta is beloved all over the world. While Guetta is laying down beats for hordes of people, Usher is all alone on a beach. The duo erase the boundary with their music and bring it across the globe and the flashy clip is about all the continents forming together again and they all have a party as party-people jump like maniacs to the beat, they make the earth quake with their powerful feet. he megastars are trying to send the message that love and music is universal all throughout the world and unite the fans.

Casey James Debuts His First Video "Let's Don't Call It a Night"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Saturday, October 15, 2011 0 comments

American Idol alum Casey James has premiered the new video on CMT for his first soulful country tune, "Let's Don't Call It a Night" Friday as part of its Big New Music Weekend. Texas-based country singer got the nation's attention as a third place finalist on the 9th season of American Idol last year, and is currently working on his debut album, to be released on Sony Nashville early next year.
The 29-year-old only dabbled in country music while on then 9th season of American Idol. He played a Keith Urban song, and a Shania Twain song during Shania Twain week, but was clearly more influenced by rock and blues. His time on the show was bookended by John Mayer songs, appropriate because of all the artists he covered on the show, it's Mayer that his debut song "Let's Don't Call It a Night" most closely mimics. James actually sounds more like Jonny Lang than John Mayer, but both men play a guitar similar to the one James uses as a tool for his seduction.
American Idol Contestant made his mark on the popular show with his bluesy voice, southern-rock edge, and stellar guitar skills. James wrote the soulful song with Brice Long and Terry McBride. The single reflects exactly the image James stayed true to throughout his stint on American Idol. Definitely leaning towards the southern-rock end of the Country Music spectrum; his bluesy voice is making knees go weak all over the place as he sings of not wanting his night with his lady to end because he's got big plans.
The slow and sexy sheet-burner is a little clumsier than anything the always-polished Mayer would record. From the first lyric, one can't deny the lure of this song's sultry stylings, but the words are a little vapid. If James were actually singing this song to seduce some lucky woman, she'd likely grab a handful of his gorgeous hair, look deep into his blue eyes and whisper, "Shhh... don't talk." But the song goes on, allowing the Texas-born singer to redeem himself some during the chorus. It's an appropriately steamy clip for such a sultry tune; director Roman White keeps the slightly goofy-creepy premise is James serenading these ladies from the hallway on an even keel.

Loick Essien Gets All Emotional In "Me Without You" Video

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Friday, October 14, 2011 0 comments

Loick Essien has revealed the video to his new upbeat love song "Me Without You," which will serve as the fourth release from the London singer's forthcoming debut album, "Identity," is currently slated for a March 5, 2012 release. Following on from the summer success of his No.2 club hit "How We Roll," the 21-year-old returns to the charts with another winner track and it shows that the young artist isn't scared to show his vulnerable side with a raw and emotional ballad insight into love and heartache.
Having co-written this emotive track which is mixed and produced by Mike Spencer, "Me Without You," is a proper blub-fest about breaking up with someone who you still want to be with, and trying to go on without them. "There's nothing worse than ending a relationship with someone you don't want to break up with," says the daredevil. "This song is about trying to rebuild your life when it feels like you can't go on without them. Everyone has felt like that at some point and it's something we can all relate to."
In the current pop climate, it takes balls bigger than a prizewinning pumpkin to steer of the ubiquitous lowest common denomiguetta club sound that has pop pinned to the wall by its throat, and on the basis of his second single we can conclude that Essien does indeed, metaphorically, have a sizable scrotum. "Me Without You" sounds current, of course, but there's a lightness of touch in the production that lets the song itself breathe. Which is all rather splendid. It should also be noted that "Me Without You" concerns one of our favorite pop topics: the nonstop blubbathon stage of a collapsed relationship.
That was sad enough. Then we saw the new video for it and it seems that Essien thinks being completely heartbroken makes him immune to getting run over. From one promising UK act to another, Essien has yet again delivered a single that sounds nothing like its predecessor. Undeniably mesmerizing, the voice re-establishes his abilities, and exactly why the R&B singer was nominated for a MOBO. "Me Without You" is an amazing Pop R&B song. It is a really beautiful and heartfelt, sad, breakup song. It has a cool, harder, almost-rock-type beat with smooth vocals on top. I'm really impressed with this singer's voice. He's got talent.

The Saturdays face a storm of emotions in "My Heart Takes Over"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Thursday, October 13, 2011 0 comments

The British-Irish girl group The Saturdays have unveiled their new video for their Pop ballad "My Heart Takes Over," which is the third cut to be lifted from The Saturdays' upcoming fourth album "On Your Radar," slated for a November 21 release. "My Heart Takes Over" is a heart-wrenching breakup ballad, and the video visually translates the emotional weight that the sorry carries.
The girls have abandoned their previously favored club sounds for the new track - a powerful ballad which shows off the band's tremendous vocal abilities. The song finds the gorgeous quintet harmonizing about letting go and letting love take over. This is one of several ballads on "On Your Radar." Speaking to Digital Spy, The Saturdays said of the LP: "The ballads this time are very strong. There are quite a few tearjerkers on this one. Our last album (Headlines) only had one ballad. This time, we have a few more and they are very singalong."
The Saturdays look as glamorous as ever in skimpy outfits despite the freezing cold in new promo for "My Heart Takes Over" on the black sand beaches of Iceland. The video sees the five-piece face heavy gusts and cold temperatures as they sing their lungs out on the hillsides of the Icelandic stormy countryside. Throughout most of the video, the girls are pictured alone as they each face their own personal obstacle, which are represented by natural elements like strong winds, rough tides, and a downpour of snow.
The quintet flew to freezing cold Iceland in late September to shoot this new video. Although the video is meant to invoke feelings of loss and heartache, it's hard to believe that any of these girls have had their hearts broken. The Saturdays' designer gear, perfectly tousled hair, and overall supermodel appearance isn't the most convincing "scorned lover" act - far from the smudged mascara, puffy red eye look that the average girl sports after a breakup. Simple, stunning, cinematic, the clip reaffirms the saying that sometimes less is indeed more.

Cody Simpson is filled with teenage heartbreak in "Not Just You"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Wednesday, October 12, 2011 0 comments

Cody Simpson unveiled his new beachy video on MTV for his latest heartfelt single "Not Just You," taken from his second EP "Coast to Coast," is available in stores and on iTunes now. The song storyline is about a boy who realizes that both people are at fault for the ending of a relationship, and it definitely follows a girl, because we get to see Simpson up-close and personal with his love interest, standing together on the beach and even serenading her on his guitar.
The YouTube sensation takes it slow with this beautiful ballad, he might be young, but doesn't mean he doesn't know heartache. The 14-year-old current MTV Push artist shares a tender moment with his music video love interest, Madison McMillin, and strolls through the cold city streets as he thinks back on his carefree summer days on the beach with his former girlfriend. The Aussie teen explores the post break-up blues, as well as his ability to wear clothes in all different types of weather, in his latest video for "Not Just You."
The the Kids Choice Award winner's lovelorn new clip was filmed on Venice Beach, and in downtown L.A., and was directed by Roman White, who explains his concept for the project in the "making of" clip. "You have this couple and they've kind of broken apart, and Cody's video girlfriend, Madison, is leaving him," he says. "So he's alone in the city, she's alone in the city, it's winter, it's kind of cold... and Cody's realizing that it wasn't just her that was part of the reason that they broke up, it was him as well."
The director adds, "Halfway through the video, he realizes he can't let her go." In the new clip, we see Simpson sings his sad song as he reminisces about better days on the beach with his girlfriend, who packs her bags and gets ready to get on the subway to take her somewhere far, far away. We also see a winter-coat-clad Simpson walking through the dimly lit backstreets of New York, looking back on a summer love that somehow went awry. In the end, the broken couple are seen at a train station trying to make amends until his love disappears.

Pixie Lott Gets Seductive In "What Do You Take Me For?" Video

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Tuesday, October 11, 2011 0 comments

British pop starlet Pixie Lott has unveiled the brand music video for for her new jam "What Do You Take Me For?" a collaboration featuring New York rapper Pusha T and produced by dubstep mixer Rusko, the new track, set to drop on November 7th, is the second cut taken from Lott's forthcoming sophomore studio album, "Young Foolish Happy," is scheduled for release on the same date as the single in UK.
The singer was discovered when she was just 15 years old by famed producer L.A. Reid, who signed her to Def Jam Records. Talking about the album's title, Lott once explained, "It was inspired by a lyric from an old soul song that I love by The Tams called 'Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy' - 'Young Foolish Happy' pretty much sums up the vibe of my album. It's a feel good party album but with lots of soul. I also think its a great sentiment for all ages to live life by!"
"What Do You Take Me For" is a stand-out track, full of energy and fantastic performances, which has described as an intoxicating unique blend of funk samples and warping basslines. The track features rising rapper Pusha T, who recently signed to Kanye West's label Good Music. Follow-up to her this Summer No.1 single "All About Tonight," Lott is finally taking risks because "What Do You Take Me For" is different to anything she's ever released or better yet recorded, and brings out her sexy vocals on scene, and very sleek clip.
The 20-year-old Bromley born singer in a black leotard and matching boots performing a collection of seductive and flirts with the camera as she dances sexy routines created by Beyoncé Knowles' choreographer. Directed by Declan Whitebloom, the promo is a high-energy sequence of contemporary dance moves between the two singers and putting their best feet forward with their back up dance teams in an explosive and upbeat performance. Lott is up next using her amazing voice, dance moves, and legs to leave viewers hypnotized.

Valora Drops Their Savagely Indignant Debut "I Waited For You"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Monday, October 10, 2011 0 comments

The hard rock band Valora have released the official music video for their first and title song from band's Hollywood Records debut album, "I Waited For You," will be released to digital retailers on October 24th. Musically, Valora could be considered fans of hard rock bands such as Muse and Foo Fighters, but within the band's style flows an expanse of rock influences.
Valora is a six piece hard rock band from Whittier, California. featuring electrifying frontwoman Syd Duran, who sings with fearsome conviction, summoning all the just powers of rock into her three-octave range, her powerful vocals and stage presence have catapulted the band from obscurity to national attention. But Duran is about more than technique or stage presence. She has stories to tell: stories about isolation and betrayal, of misbegotten love and life out of whack. As the album shows, her rock vocal chops would mean nothing if she didn't sing from the heart. "I didn't want to write a feel-good record," she says. "You don't always feel good. For the most part, in life you're getting over something."
Valora will be issuing their debut album, "I Waited for You," in the coming months. The album opens with this savagely indignant "I Waited For You," a song Duran co-wrote a few years ago, and which drew early attention to the band. "I'm really proud of it," she says. "I wrote it right out of high school." "I Waited for You" was produced by Grammy-nominated Johnny K and mixed by Neil Avron. It's simple and raw – no horns, no synths, no auto-tuned perfection. "The main thing Johnny had to understand about Valora was the feeling I want people to get when they hear my voice," Duran says. "I needed to find a producer that valued vocals as much as I do."
For a paltry $500, an early incarnation of Valora snuck into local Whittier High school after hours and shot their own DIY video for "I Waited For You," which intrigued Hollywood Records execs. Duran explained: "We decided that 'I Waited for You' was probably the catchiest thing we did and it had potential to be a hit. So we found a film student that made the video for us for a budget of like $500. We broke into my local high school [Whittier High] and shot it there. Then we threw it up on the Internet and this was right when YouTube starting blowing up."

Blake Shelton Cuts Loose At A Drive-In For "Footloose" Video

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Sunday, October 9, 2011 0 comments

Oklahoma country music star Blake Shelton premiered the music video for the country-fied reboot of the hit "Footloose" on Thursday's show 'Entertainment Tonight,' for the first time since Michael Jackson's "Thriller" in 1983. "Footloose" was performed for the original 1984 film by music legend Kenny Loggins, and the film is about a town that has banned rock and dancing, will open in U.S. theaters on October 14.
Writer-director Craig Brewer helms a new take of the well-loved 1984 film, which was loosely based on real-life events that happened in 1980 in Elmore City, where students convinced the school board to let them organize the school's first prom, despite an 80-year-old city ordinance banning public dancing. The Oklahoma farming community marked the 30th anniversary of the first prom last year. Shelton tells The Boot. "When I open my mouth, what comes out is country. There's really only one way to approach it when you think of it that way: a fun, uptempo, catchy version just like Kenny Loggins did."
It's no surprise that a movie about dancing features a lot of dancing. However, the video for "Footloose" is incredibly middle American good time and fairly vibrates off the screen with high-octane dance segments from the movie. There's simply no room to compete. The 35-year-old singer wants to cut loose, but he wisely leaves the fancy footwork to others, and choosing instead to sing in a pickup bed and let the energy bubble around him.
The video started as a quiet night, but brings life to a sleepy drive-in theater, and turns into a raucous block party when "The Voice" coach exchanges pleasantries with the old man running the joint and then grabs his guitar and sings the iconic title song from the upcoming film standing in his truck bed, while a bunch of dancers embark on a well-choreographed routine around him. "Footage" and key scenes from the film, which also appears as loyal to the original as Shelton's remake of the theme song, are spliced throughout and it all blends seamlessly that looks just as great now as they did 27 years ago.

Susan Boyle Goes For A Classy Look In "You Have To Be There"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Saturday, October 8, 2011 1 comments

A month after debuting her latest single on NBC's America's Got Talent, Susan Boyle has unveiled the official promo to support her underwhelming new single, "You Have To Be There." This stirring ballad is the lead single features on Boyle's upcoming third full-length album, "Someone to Watch Over Me," to hit stories and iTunes November 1st. The album features Boyle's interpretations of pop classics by George and Ira Gershwin, Joni Mitchell and others, as well as original material.
Unlike the other artists, the 50-year-old singer shuns elaborate costume changes, over-the-top choreography and dramatic storyline. She's doing what she does best; belting out the lyrics in high notes. "Well this song makes a demand on Gods presence, it raises questions as to whether or not he can be there when needed," Boyle said. "It's a powerful song. It was written by Benny & Björn from ABBA and originates from their musical Kristina and it's very evocative and emotional."
ABBA's Benny Anderson and Björn Ulvaeus originally wrote the song as "Du måste finnas" for the 1995 popular Swedish musical "Kristina från Duvemåla." The show is based on a series of four novels by Swedish author Vilhelm Moberg set in the mid-19th century, which tells the epic story of an extended family's poverty-driven migration from Sweden to America. It's a really good song with a mighty chorus that roars in a Celine Dion sort of way. The essence and feel of the video is sure to grab your attention.
The clip was filmed during her rehearsals for major televised performances at London's Symphony Orchestra home on Old Street. It's classic Boyle in every way, too, as this Scottish singing sensation, who surprised the world and claimed her fame through "Britain's Got Talent," shows off her ridiculous vocal range, and keeps it simple yet classy in this black-and-white affair, backed up by a full string orchestra when showing off her pipes.

Beyoncé Dropped A Bridge To The Past For Colorful "Countdown"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Friday, October 7, 2011 0 comments

Beyoncé has finally dropped her colorful mod-tastic video on MTV for "Countdown," the third cut lifted from her recent multi-million-selling album "4." The pregnant R&B diva loads this '60s-inspired masterpiece with various energetic routines, taking on a variety of iconic looks, rocking out mod style, showing off her growing belly and channeling the spirit of Audrey Hebpurn by wearing short bangs and cropped black pants.
This playful upbeat, horn-heavy track was co-written and co-produced by the 30-year-old herself and samples Boyz II Men's 1991 R&B hit "Uhh Ahh." The song's development was motivated by the fact that Beyoncé wanted to create something refreshing and different by mixing several musical styles of the 1990s with the 1970s. It was considered to be everywhere on the genre map, and contains elements of funk music amongst dancehall influences. It's a perfect mix of classic and modern, which seems to be what Beyoncé is aiming for in this era of her career.
Lyrically, it's about twinned boasts of self-worth and proclamations of fidelity into a tight knot of romantic ideals. "Countdown" finds Beyoncé as the female protagonist delivering her message of ten years of loyalty seeming just as thrilling as the first time to her love interest and boasting of all the ways he should feel lucky to have her by his side. Throughout the song, Beyoncé sings with a sassy attitude, setting a futuristic tone.
The video was directed by Adria Petty, who previously worked with Beyoncé on the clip for "Sweet Dreams." In it, Beyoncé turns into a human clock behind a classic '60s psychedelic, black-and-white-striped background, then a human art gallery as she morphs into a series of Lichtenstein girls come to life in primary-colored bathing suits. The video ends with the superstar in a chair, grooving to her uptempo track. Throughout the clip, which bubbles with excitement, she is all smiles, perhaps reflecting her joy at beginning a new phase in her life.

James Blunta Met A "Dangerous" Girl In A Seedy Burlesque Club

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Thursday, October 6, 2011 0 comments

British musician James Blunt, best known for his track "You're Beautiful" has released a new video for his newest track "Dangerous," the fifth British single from Blunt's the third studio album "Some Kind of Trouble." We're sure the 37-year-old musician has had his fair share of promiscuous women and he has expressed his feelings about it in his new visual. "The brief was simple: a gorgeous/dangerous girl and just a cameo for James," director Luc Janin explains.
The promo is filmed in a mysterious POV depiction and in the point of view of a lovely lady in red stiletto heels. The mysterious woman takes us through the crowded rooms of a dance hall where beautiful show girls are in costume getting ready for the night, and through the sketchiest of hallways in a seedy burlesque club. Her venture ends when she strolls into a room with a long awaiting guest, and of course, it's Blunt himself. The ending showcases a smidgen of eroticism in a purely artful form that leaves the viewer wanting more.
"Dangerous" is quite good with an uptempo beat backed up by a distinct indie type melody whilst. It starts out as an uplifting key board build up, dropping into a hard hitting track with incredible electro synths and pounding drums that progressively get more and more powerful. This distortion heavy progressive track comprises of women walking around in scanty attire which can be deemed dangerous when viewing this video in a office or school environment. Not his best work but when they mix from mellow to heavy that are definitely worth a listen!
Blunt told The Metro that this song is about the English supermodel Kate Moss. "Yes, she is a dangerous woman," he said. Failing to elaborate the singer cryptically teased; "It's one of those naïve songs full of that teenage energy. That excitement of having someone, that fear and the excitement of the unknown. On the song 'Dangerous,' it feels like a teenager picking up a new instrument and writing something with all of that naive excitement." "Dangerous" is not the first word that springs to mind when you think Blunt, which is probably the reason why he opted to not actually appear in the video until the very end, and then only in silhouette!

Within Temptation Debut "Shot In the Dark" from "Triplets" Film

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Wednesday, October 5, 2011 0 comments

Dutch symphonic/Gothic metallers Within Temptation has just released their new video for the standout track "Shot in the Dark," the third single from the female-fronted metal outfit's latest fifth LP "The Unforgiving." Truly an inspiring album. The latest video, alongside the short film "Triplets," is the last part of the combined "The Unforgiving" short movies, following "Faster" and "Sinéad."
This concept album is based on a comic book series. The band's lead vocalist Sharon den Adel stated about the new album's concept: "It's a very realistic story, although you don't see that in the first phase when you see a lot of the supernatural and people being brought back to life to have a second chance. It's not about bad people but good people making bad choices. There are many layers and characters but it's about making peace with yourself. The main characters embody the comic characters in the songs. The concept we were challenged our boundaries and it inspired to the sound from a different angle to approach. This resulted in an album with our best songs yet!"
This Dutch phenomenon gives us a modern version of the classic Within Temptation sound. Some sound effects are added, no sounds that distract or disturb. Adel and her gang made with "The Unforgiving" a solid symphonic rock/metal album. Adel is an amazingly powerful vocalist, she really summons up a bounty of believable emotion on "Shot In The Dark." Within Temptation took Melodic and Symphonic Metal to incredible heights with "The Unforgiving." I admire and respect the direction that this band has taken on this album and it has become quite the contagious listen for me over the past month.
The music video for their instant thrills of the anthemic "Shot In The Dark," is shot in the same place as the "Faster" Video. It is in black and white and features the band only. All band members are there with the drummer having a black sock over his face as when the video was shot his identity was not revealed. Nevertheless with "The Unforgiving," Within Temptation proved once again that they are the best in their genre.

Florence + the Machine Enjoy Masquerade Ball In "Shake It Out"

Posted by Kevin Z. Rong Tuesday, October 4, 2011 0 comments

Following that recent weekend remix, Florence and the Machine is once again dolling out a masquerade-set clip for their the newly released gloriously uplifting track "Shake It Out," the lead single proper from Florence Welch and her mysterious mechanical band's upcoming sophomore effort "Ceremonials." Welch became a bigger-than-indie darling when their debut album "Lungs" burst into unlikely mainstream success. In the nearly five minute technicolor blast, Welch splits her time mourning and dancing her way through a stately psychedelic costume party at a masquerade ball.
This gospelly pop tune is about having a hangover and wanting to shake it out, and it features a churchy organ and concludes with Welch roaring, "It's hard to dance with the devil on your back. So shake him off!" Welch explained: "I wanted to just shake something out, shake out these regrets, shake out these things that haunt you. It was one of those songs that came in about half an hour and when you've got a hangover, it is almost like a hangover cure. You're like, thank you!"
Given the track's bursting vocal moments, "Shake It Out" could have lent itself to something far more grandiose visually. But Florence and the Machine have kept it relatively low-key. Kind of. I'm using relatively very loosely here. The track's music video is still an over-the-top affair filled with Old World imagery and glitter-covered dresses and suits. But it's not quite as outrageous as it could have been, even if things do get really dramatic at times. I guess I was picturing something more arena-sized, though maybe that's because the track is so goddamn huge.
The video is as gorgeous and ethereal as the song itself, features Welch at a Shakespearian masked ball, dressed in a long red gown. She traded only a few of her Stevie Nicksian chiffon gowns for something a little wilder, tighter, for this Annie Lennox-directed clip. In it, the singer is equal parts naughty and nice as she cavorts between dancing, drinking, shaking it out and shrinking away during this fairy tale party. She flows between beautiful people in masquerade masks and drops in on a seance. This is easily one of Welch's best vocal performances to date, and the imagery will leave a mark on fans and aspiring fans to boot.

Total Pageviews

Stephanie Quayle


Click to watch Stephanie Quayle, Sugar High.

Popular Posts

The Band Perry


Click to watch The Band Perry, Chainsaw.

Taylor Swift


Click to watch Taylor Swift, Red