The
1975 have entered into the 2016 charts with the longest album name to go number
one…probably. The UK’s funk-pop-rockers have also asserted dominance in
the charts over in the US debuting at number one as well. I read an article the
other day and found out they are only the 16th UK
artists to simultaneously hold number one positions in the UK and US; joining
artists like The Beatles, Rod Stewart and The Rolling Stones.
You
start the album off by listening to ‘the 1975’ by the 1975, which I
guess is what it feels like to spend 1 minute and 20 seconds in Matt
Healy’s mind – a synth-pop dreamland of, well, confusion.
Then,
suddenly, things kick up a gear as the band launches into funk-guitar driven
‘Love Me’. This is the first single to be released from the new 1975 record and
it’s a quirky, pisstake on selfie culture. The fabulous video depicts
a topless Healy stumbling between life-size cardboard cutouts of commercial
superstars like Taylor Swift and Rita Ora. In the song Healy admits he
isn’t afraid to see what people write about him on social media, which I think
is admirable because I couldn’t do it.
The
1975 maintain the pace into the next song ‘UGH!’ which, quite simply, is about
cocaine. More specifically, Matt Healy’s past dabbling with it. "This
conversation's not about reciprocation no more/But I'm gonna wait
until you've finished so I can talk some more/About me and my things, my car,
my living/And how I'm giving it up, giving it up again". It’s a
genius piece of writing and so accurately illustrated, probably my favourite from
the album so give it a listen.
Another great
song from this record is ‘The Sound” which is like going round on a
carousel – the most joyous, uplifting carousel ever. The song is an
anthemic chorus line of bouncing synth filled in with curious, questioning shade and
jibes. The song is also home to a great guitar solo, the best on the album.
The
album is brutally honest, fun and expressive. Admittedly some songs are a bit
wishy-washy and daydreamy but truthfully I think the album needs those kind
of ballad driven tunes because they shine a light on important cultural
messages for young people. But the songs I talked about like ‘UGH!’, ‘Love
Me’ and ‘The Sound’ are at least worth a listen.
Overall,
I think the album is sound. The follow up to the first hit, self-titled record
is actually better but I think the 1975 are capable of something special
here…so it’s okay to be demanding! I like the way the 1975 carry
themselves in the media and their music speaks for themselves, which is all
written and produced by Healy and Daniels. I also love the pop sound with a
rock voice.
Today, What’s The Set List takes a look back over a timeline of sepia-toned rock and roll imagery. The timeline will look at the greatest lead singers of the greatest bands of all time so we have strictly left out great soloists like Elvis, Bowie, Dylan, Chuck Berry and many more. Another rule to abide by is front women don’t count, something for another time? Who knows? On this journey through the ages we will discover the ingredients to making the perfect frontman, and what makes them so compelling.
The timeline begins in the early 60s…
John Lennonis one of the first and most influential figures in popularised music. It just so happens that one of the first is also probably the biggest UK export to USA. John Lennon was known as the ‘Intelligent One’ in the early Beatles days, we also know that he had a ‘cheeky chappy’ aura about him – he famously reeled off a classic line at the Royal Variety Performance in 1963. He said “For our last number I’d like to ask your help. Would the people in the cheaper seats clap your hands? And the rest of ya just rattle ya jewellery.” Before leaping into Twist and Shout. In terms of music, he was the UK’s first real rock star, a working class vocal and genius music writer.
Mick Jaggercame about just after Lennon in the form of the Rolling Stones. This development saw a change from a clean-cut, cheeky lad from Liverpool to a darker, more aloof rocker. Jagger is probably the first and original frontman in the sense that he dances around the stage and really gets the crowd going – surely the primary function of a frontman? And he also sustained the ultimate frontman status in a long career. I mean, credit where credit’s due – he’s in his 70s and still owning and lighting up stages all over the planet.
Robert Plantis the lead singer of Led Zeppelin and can be best remembered for long blond hair and a powerful, bare-chested appearance. His charismatic rock and roll image helped develop the first phrases like “Rock God”. Plant’s lyrics can often be described as philosophical, thought provoking and mystical. Fans all over the world loved him for his deep-thinking powerful stage presence.
Freddie Mercury is undoubtedly the greatest frontman of all time. If you haven’t seen it, then watch the link below this paragraph. I can’t think of another frontman where the whole audience hangs off of every movement, or someone who can captivate 50,000+ people. It’s tough to call, but it’s between Freddie and Plant for the best singer award.
Stingis the bass player and frontman of the Police, which, in the 70s and 80s, was a pretty big deal. Although not a prancing showman like previous legends like Jagger, Plant and Mercury – he was considered a hugely desired frontman. Sting and The Police were thrust onto the world stage with a completely new wave sound which has not really been matched since – and Sting was a key driver behind this. His voice was different but had a real rockstar attitude; also women go crazy for him.
Axl Roseembodies that “Rock God” image, similarly to Robert Plant with the long blonde mane, leather trousers and consistently topless. He also still has to wrestle for frontman rights with lead guitarist Slash that makes his frontman symbol even harder to grab. Despite this, they still managed to conjure up one of the greatest songs of all time in “Sweet Child O Mine”. Rose also has the largest vocal range; apparently it’s larger than singer’s like Mariah Carey and Prince. Also, AXL ROSE has the coolest name.
Kurt Cobainis a step away from the cheeky chap, “look at me” image from the previously mentioned. But it’s his symbol and what he meant for young people during his short but hugely important career. Cobain was an extremely clever guy, which really translated in his songwriting. He managed to be able to write about everything a young person could or would have been going through and these things really resonated with his listeners.
Liam Gallagherin the days of Oasis was untouchable. With a vocal that represented every young working class lad in the UK and the great songwriting of his brother really shaped 90s Britpop. Although not exactly an accomplished songwriter, the music of Oasis was fronted by Liam and what people really respect about Liam is his willingness to take the whole world on attitude.
Alex Turneris like a UK version of Kurt Cobain in the sense that his music really speaks to young people and can really um up the life of a teenager. He is also very quiet and boyish but ultimately he is the frontman of one of the biggest bands of the now. As someone who has been able to grow up with Turner’s music it is sweet to see how he has grown from that scruffy, shy, teenager to an edgy greaser.
Harry Stylesis proof that the frontman is alive in pop music, despite the separation of One Direction it is exciting to see what’s next for Harry. Probably the most handsome on this list and has the world at his feet; there is no knowing what he could achieve next. Styles has had a string of high-profile women on his arm which is similar to people like Mick Jagger. What’s most important about him is that he could be a step towards a more clean-cut, calmer frontman – someone your parents don’t mind bringing home…
It’s clear that what we admire most about these superstars is that they are a symbol of revolution. A real escape for the everyday, normal citizen of the world. Yes, pretty much all of our favourites were junkies, and that isn’t exactly the most admirable quality, but maybe that’s because what we like so much - these rockstars have no fear, they feel invincible. Mix that with some truly exceptional sounds and you find yourself a hero, a rock hero. And there’s so many more; Chris Martin, Johnny Rotten, Jimi Hendrix, Thom Yorke, Matt Healy from the 1975… they’re all no exception. A frontman is a leader of a generation, and let’s face it – we all wouldn’t mind being a part of these people’s gang.
Happy Valentine's Day! I hope everyone has woken up to snuggles and roses or (in my case) cuddling a pizza box and looking forward to spending the day with you single friends eating ice cream. However you are spending your day and whoever you are spending your day with, I'm sure one of our playlists can make you feel the love... or not.
Alfie and I have come together to create a couple of posts of our
favourite albums and tracks of 2015. In this post, in no particular order, we
picked our favourite tracks. All of which we highly recommend you have a listen
to if you haven't already. There is a playlist at the bottom of this post with
all the tracks on. So hit shuffle and have a listen! Let us know if you agree
with our choices, and what your top five tracks were of 2015 in the comments
below or on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Top 10 Tracks 2015
FourFiveSeconds - Rihanna, Kanye West and Paul McCartney
Written by: West, McCartney, Mike Dean, Dave
Longstreth and Noah Goldstein, Kirby Lauryen, Ty Dolla
Sign, Dallas Austin and
Elon Rutberg
Apart from being very surprised when this track was released in
January 2015, I was very excited! I thought it was really cool to see some of
my favourite artist come together to release a track that was pretty different
to what any of them had done before. What made me laugh when this track was
release was that some fans thought McCartney was unheard of before this track,
and before Kanye discovered him (if you think this, check yourself). FourFiveSeconds is
very minimalistic (as is the music video) which is really effective in making
you listen to the lyrics and the meaning behind the song. I think its
simplicity and catchy hook made it a great track to start off 2015 with.
Alabama Shakes – Don’t Wanna Fight
Written by: Alabama Shakes
I know it seems as though I’m trying to force Alabama Shakes on
you – but I’m desperately trying to make it clear that 2015 was a great year
for them. ‘Don’t Wanna Fight’ starts with an echoed, gritty
riff which builds into a fusion of aggressive strums and plucks. Brittany
Howard then comes in at the peak of the sound wall with a heart wrenching howl
which restarts the assaulting guitars. Assuming the song is sung from Howard’s
point of view – she is clearly bemoaning her relationship with a loved one,
stating the difficulties she goes through, but ultimately… she “Don’t Wanna Fight
No More”. The song was engineered by producer Blake Mills and I
think Mills was key in achieving this punchy, sonic sound the Shakes
were aiming for in this song.
Can't Feel My Face - The Weeknd
Written by Ali Payami, Savan
Kotecha, Max Martin, The
Weeknd and Peter Svensson
Can't Feel My Face was the massive summer tune of 2015, along with
OMI's Cheerleader (released in 2014, why it's not on the list). This Canadian
singer, songwriter and producer smashed the charts with his album Beauty Behind
The Madness, but the one that stood out for me most was this one. Can't Feel My
Face was leaked prior to its release on the 8th of June, debuing at number 24
before shooting to number 1 in the Hot 100 USA. The funky bass line and awesome
lyrics make the song super catchy as well as the strong beat and break beats
that make the song a great club track.
Brandon Flowers - The Way It’s Always Been
Written by: Brandon Flowers and Benji Lysaght
Similarly to Alabama Shakes, Flowers has had an excellent year. He
reached number 1 in the UK; again, he also had a successful UK tour. However,
more importantly, he achieved a sound which is different to previous work with
The Killers and other solo efforts. I’ve done my research and Flowers found
inspiration in David Bowie for his latest album – and I think it’s most evident
in this song. This song starts in the rawest fashion with just his voice with
no added effects alongside a bass and high hat. The vocal goes from this
natural, cute head voice to an almighty gospel choir in one bar. From here
the song moves up a gear into a psychedelic frenzy of synths, organs and
melodic guitars. The song’s about hope, redemption and, well, Jesus? “Everybody
sitting around waiting for the Son to come again” which is pretty
admirable – he’s saying ‘Is anybody actually doing anything?” I suppose aiming
this at world leaders and innovators...
Coldplay - Adventures of a Lifetime
Written by: Chris Martin, Guy
Berryman, Jonny Buckland, Will Champion
I really wanted to put this whole album in the top picks of
2015, however I knew I wanted to focus on this track as it is arguably one of
their best tracks of all time. Although its nothing like their massive, sing
your heart out, ballads like Fix You, The Scientist or Yellow. It has its own
charms with the awesome guitar riff and upbeat feel, quite different to the
usual stuff Coldplay produce. Although I have felt that over their past three
albums they have started to become a lot more upbeat, with songs like Paradise
and Sky Full of Stars. I must also mention the amazing music video for
Adventures of a Lifetime. It is an incredible piece of animation, with the
whole band being turned in to chimpanzees. Definitely give this video a watch
if you haven't already, it's amazing!
St Paul & The Broken Bones - Call Me
Written by: Paul Janeway
Next up is a song by another band from Alabama – maybe I have a
type? This song is up there with the best of soul music. One thing you can
take away from this track is the charisma of frontman Paul Janeway, the
rest of the band just bounces and reacts to his movements and flamboyance;
which is why it works so well! Lead guitarist plays funk guitar for the Broken
Bones which is a huge factor to the ‘good time’ sound they have going on. It
was also used in the Fifty Shades of Grey film, although not on the soundtrack,
you can hear it in the background to one of the scenes… also quite fitting
because it’s such a sexy groove.
Justin Bieber - Love Yourself
Written by: Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran and Benjamin
Levin
If you had told me 2 years ago that I would be a belieber I would
have laughed in your face. I obviously knew all the words to the big
Bieber cheesy pop tunes from the beginning of his career, who doesn't?!
But I would never have said I liked his music. However with the release of
Purpose, his new album, I couldn't help myself. The album has some huge tunes
on it, 3 of which were numbers 1,2 and 3 in the charts for a couple of weeks in
the UK, in January. Love yourself was partly written by Ed Sheeran which I feel
you can really tell. The lyrics are awesome, something Sheeran is really good
at is writing amazing lyrics. Considering how basic this track is the lyrics
are very important and the biggest part of the track really. I think the
simplicity of the track is what makes it so special and different to everything
else we usually hear from Bieber. The music video to this
is mesmerising by the way, give it a watch and see.
One Direction - History
Written by: Wayne Hector, John Ryan, Ed Drewett, Liam Payne,
Julian Bunetta and Louis Tomlinson
This is from the album Made in the A.M. and is a little more slow
rock in comparison to the rest of the heavier album. This is a climaxing anthem
to the end of the album and, I suppose, end of the first One Direction. It’s
about their journey and a tribute to the die-hard Directioners. I
love the stripped down version of One Direction, similarly to their hit Little
Things. It will be interesting to see what happens during their break –
hopefully they will come back with a matured musical direction to make some
great music to, well, move them into classic rockstars.
Maroon 5 - Sugar
Written by: Adam Levine, Martin Johnson, Jacob Kasher
Hindlin and Mike Posner
First of all watch the video, it's one of the cutest things ever!
what makes it better is that the bride and grooms faces is genuine surprise!
Although the Grooms knew there would be a surprise band turing up and that they
were a big band, they were not told who it would be, the brides had no idea. It
was directed by David Dobkin, the same guy who directed Wedding Crashers. The
song itself is such a feel good song, something that everyone can get up and
dance to, no matter if you know the song or not. Although it was on their 5th
album, V released in 2014, the single wasn't released until 2015. It is easily
one of my favourite tunes of 2015.
Leon Bridges – River
Written by: Leon Bridges, Austin Michael Jenkins, Joshua Block and
Chris Vivion
Listening to Leon Bridges is like hearing Sam Cooke again – with
the same authentic 60s feel. The song is beautiful; it’s a powerful
sacrifice of his emotions and is easy to get lost in. The song has a smattering
of scattered skitter coupled with the slow burning guitar alongside warm,
heartfelt vocal is a comforting end to the album. I’ve also just found out that
Bridges has been recording for his second album and I’m hugely anticipating a
strong follow up to the magical debut hit record.
