This afternoon, ten shortlisted candidates were announced for the annual Meteor Choice Music Prize.
The Choice Music Awards were established in 2005 with the objective to highlight the greatest album releases in Irish music, in one twelve month period. The nominees are decided upon by a panel of eleven professionals, who are intricately involved in the nation’s airwaves, print media, online music communities and others who possess unquestionable musical expertise.
Last year, Two Door Cinema Club claimed the much coveted award with their album ‘Tourist History’ whilst in 2009, ‘The Season of the Sparks’ by Adrian Crowley was announced as the winner.
In alaphabetical order, the nominees for 2011′s Choice Music Prize are;
And So I Watch You From Afar – Gangs (Richter Collective)
Bell X1 – Bloodless Coup (Belly Up Records)
Cashier No 9 – To The Death of Fun (Bella Union)
Lisa Hannigan – Passenger (Hoop)
The Japanese Popstars – Controlling Your Allegiance (EMI)
Jape – Ocean of Frequency (Music Is For Losers)
Patrick Kelleher & His Cold Dead Hands – Golden Syrup (Osaka Records)
Pugwash – The Olympus Sounds (EMI/1969 Records)
Tieranniesaur – Tieranniesaur (Popical Island)
We Cut Corners – Today I Realised I Could Go Home Backwards (Delphi)
The Meteor Choice Music Prize Live Event will take place in the Olympia Theatre on the 8th of March. The line-up for the evening’s festivities will be announced on January 23rd. Until then, you can purchase your tickets here on Ticketmaster. With prices beginning at only €22.50, it is a night not to be missed out on!
The first annual Gramophone Awards occurred on May 4th 1959. The ceremony is an accolade by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States.
Next year’s festivities will mark the 54th year of musical celebration. The awards will be broadcast live on February 12th.
With seven nods, Kanye West is this year’s most nominated artist, closely followed by Adele who has six nominations of her own.
Do you agree with the Academy’s choices? Who do you think deserves to win?
Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, has become an icon and role-model for men and women of all ages. It is rare that an artist is the culmination of both an inspirational voice and a contagious sense of humour.
Adele’s constant reference to her life pre-fame and her comical narration of habitual experiences is what makes her one of today’s most relatable stars. Vogue UK’s decision to honour Adele as October’s cover girl, is a fitting tribute to someone who has already, given so much to the music industry.
The cover and editorial were photographed by Sølve Sundsbø with the accompanying article orchestrated by Vogue’s Christa D’Souza. On the cover, Adele dons a custom-made Burberry lace gown.
On her pre-show ritual:
“I puke quite a lot before going on stage. Though never actually on stage. But then, I s— myself before everything … the bigger the freak-out, the more I enjoy the show!”
On the entertainment industry’s obsession with weight:
“I’ve seen people where it rules their lives, who want to be thinner or have bigger boobs, and how it wears them down. And I don’t want that in my life. I have insecurities, of course, but I don’t hang out with anyone who points them out to me.”
On being single:
“I do get massively distracted when I’ve got someone in my life, which I can’t afford to do right now. Besides, no one treats me as well as I do.”
On preferring sons over daughters:
“I’ve always got on better with boys. Most of my friends are boys. Like, if I ever have children, I want five boys. Boys love their mothers whereas girls can be so mean to each other.”
The October Issue will be available on news stands from Thursday, September 8th.
The MTV Video Music Awards first began as a ceremony to rival the notorious Grammy Awards. The VMA’s first launched in 1984 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Dan Aykroyd and Bette Midler were the evening’s hosts.
This year, the awards were held in the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Steven Friedman MTV President, publicly stated the company’s delight in returning to the City of Angels;
“We are thrilled to return to Los Angeles where the energy of the city will help power the creative spirit of the 28th annual VMAs. The city is the perfect backdrop for all the musical moments, mayhem and magic that make the VMAs such a notorious celebration.”
Selena Gomez is photographed wearing a gown by Julien Mac Donald, gold heels by Brian Atwood, Judith Leiber clutch with gold drop earrings and cuff by Lorraine Schwartz.
The televised event attracts a wide spectrum of viewers; those who anticipate the night’s vocal performances and others who salivate over the ensembles of the music realm’s brightest stars.
Adele, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Chris Brown, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, Pitbull and Cee-Lo Green each glided across the stage to perform the theme tunes to this summer. Whist, the mélange of routines, costumes and melodies utilised to honour the career of Britney Spears was particularly memorable.
Beyoncé chose the red carpet of the Video Music Awards as the moment to publicly announce that she and husband Jay-Z are expecting their first child.
Beyoncé is photographed wearing a burnt orange Lanvin gown from their Autumn 2011 collection with Lorraine Schwartz jewels to accessorise.
Beyoncé performed on stage in a sequined tuxedo jacket, white shirt and fitted pants all by Dolce & Gabbana.
Beyoncé’s former band mate, Kelly Rowland attended the awards in a feather and leather ensemble by Falguni & Shane Peacock with Christian Louboutin Lady Peep Spike heels to match.
Zoe Saldana continued the night’s Little Black Dress trend in a creation by Barbara Bui, the ensemble was accessorised with snake-skin heels also by Barbara Bui, a Lanvin clutch diamond earrings, diamond elephant ring, sapphire ring and gold / onyx bracelet all by Lorraine Schwartz.
Britney Spears was the night’s guest of honour and attended with boyfriend Jason Trawick. Spears was attired in a Moschino romper and low belt with Gina peep-toe calf boots.
In her first public appearance since her marriage to Kris Humphries, Kim Kardashian chose an alluring sequined gown by Kaufmanfranco for the Video Music Awards.
Miley Cyrus exhibited a mixed print gown by Roberto Cavalli from the designers Pre-Fall 2011 Collection. The songstress paired the ensemble with a Lorraine Schwartz choker and Azzedine Alaia heels.
Demi Lovato attended the award show in a jewel encrusted dress with a plunging neckline by Mandalay.
Victoria Justice appeared on the red carpet in a jewel encrusted mini dress with Giuseppe Zanotti heels
Katie Holmes attending the music event in a halter dress by Azzedine Alaia and suede tan booties by Proenza Schouler.
Once again, Lady Gaga provided the audience with an unexpected form of attire. The New Yorker opened the show with a performance of her current single ‘You and I’ as her male alter-ego Jo Calderone.
Nicki Minaj is photographed wearing an Amato Couture corset, Shojotomo Japan shorts, Tsimori Chisato stockings, an Onch Movement ice cream necklace, Fifi and Romeo plastic cuffs and Duepunti rings.
Katy Perry collected the most amount of ‘moon men’ last night with three awards in total including the prestigious ‘Video of the Year’. Perry attended the ceremony with her husband Russell Brand and exhibited four different ensembles at the event.
Perry graced the red carpet in an Atelier Versace Autumn 2011 mini dress with Jimmy Choo ‘Beak’ sandals and Lorraine Schwartz’s pink gold and diamond ‘Happy’ bracelet.
Katy Perry presented an award in the show wearing a purple lace Tom Ford gown, the songstress’ purple-hue hair was the perfect accompaniment.
Finally, Katy Perry collected her award in a Christian Dior Autumn 2011 Couture ensemble paired with a yellow Philip Treacy had and multi-coloured wedges by Giuseppe Zanotti.
For the California Girl’s fourth ensemble, in the press room at the end of the show, Perry wore the ‘Breaking Records’ dress designed by Johnny Wujek for Furne One and Giuseppe Zanotti heels.
Video of the Year:Firework - Katy Perry
Best Female Video: Born This Way - Lady Gaga
Best Male Video: U Smile - Justin Bieber
Best Hip-Hop Video: Superbass - Nicki Minaj
Best Pop Video: Til The World Ends - Britney Spears
Best Rock Video: Walk - Foo Fighters
Best Collaboration: E.T. - Katy Perry Ft. Kanye West
Best New Artist: Yonkers – Tyler, The Creator
Best Video With A Message: Born This Way - Lady Gaga
Best Art Direction: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Best Choreography: Run This World (Girls) - Beyoncé
Best Cinematography: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Best Direction: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Best Editing: Rolling in the Deep - Adele
Best Special Effects: E.T. - Katy Perry Ft. Kanye West
Fashion is malleable, effervescent to the needs and demands of the modern woman. Throughout history, style has transformed to accommodate the social and economic eras. In recent times, vintage trends have gained popularity as fashionable fans reflect back on previous silhouettes to gain modern inspiration.
For their current issue, Teen Vogueentitled an editorial ‘Comeback Kids; Re-Interpreting Decades Past’. The shoot features youthful models exhibiting a range of contemporary designer pieces which reference the infamous trends of previous decades.
Decade: The Twenties
Ada is photographed wearing a dress by Jill Stuart, Jeremy Scott by Linda Farrow glasses, bangles by Alexis Bittar and shoes by Diane von Furstenberg.
Iana is photographed wearing a M. Missoni dress, necklace by Aurélie Bidermann and clutch by Edie Parker.
Milica is photographed wearing a Jill Stuart dress and shoes by Marni.
Fashion during the Twenties is symbolised by women’s liberation. The female race was no longer habitually constricted by narrow silhouettes and for the first time ladies opted for comfortable clothing such as trousers and skirts with short hemlines.
The silhouette of this period, although comfortable, was also flattering. Garments were fitted close to the body whilst the flapper style minimised waistlines and uniquely exposed vast amounts of skin.
Decade: Forties
Iana is photographed wearing a coat by Carven, glasses by Mykita & Alexandre Herchovitch, CeCe Toppings collar, clutch by Marc Jacobs and shoes by Calvin Klein Collection.
Ada is photographed wearing a dress by Jill Stuart and Marc by Marc Jacobs boots.
Milica is photographed wearing a Marc by Marc Jacobs cardigan, blouse and shorts, a hat by Gucci and bag by Donna Karan New York.
World War I attributed huge influence to the fashion and styles of the Forties. Uniqueness in clothing became extinguished as uniformity and dull palettes were embraced. One was encouraged to mend and patch older items with purchases rationed to a limited number of coupons.
This era, due to limited financial resources, promoted minimal material with even shorter hemlines, bare legs and buttons curtailed to three-a-piece on a garment.
Decade: Fifties
Iana is photographed wearing a Burberry Brit cardigan, skirt by J.W. Anderson, glasses by Linda Farrow Luxe, bag by Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton shoes.
Ada is photographed wearing a blazer and shirt by McQ, skirt by Marc Jacobs and shoes by Oscar de la Renta.
Milica is photographed wearing a shirt and bag by Marc Jacobs, pants by J.W. Anderson, hat is stylist’s own and shoes by Jimmy Choo.
As designers approached the 1950′s the utilitarian attire, which become popular in the previous decade, quickly became monotonous and dreary to create. The ‘New Look’ which launched at the beginning of this decade included embellished round shoulders, narrow waistlines and full skirts.
The opulence which was previously deprived, suddenly became universally exhibited. During the beginning of this decade rationing was still mandatory but women craved the luxury they were once accustomed to. This affluent form of dress maintained prominent throughout the entire decade.
Decade: Sixties
Iana is photographed wearing a coat and trousers by Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti and sunglasses by Tsumori Chisato.
Ada is photographed wearing a plastic raincoat by Burberry Prorsum and dress by Shoshanna.
Milica is photographed wearing a dress by Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti and Marc Jacobs collar.
Decade: Seventies
Iana is photographed wearing a vest by Michael Kors, turtleneck by M. Missoni, Mulberry shorts, hat by Eugenia Kim and Marni shoes.
Milica is photographed wearing a knit cape and turtleneck by M. Missoni, See by Chloé trousers and bag by Fendi.
During the decades of the sixties and seventies, women chose to adapt an androgynous style. It was no longer unusual for women to wear trousers or shorts each day. These two eras are also synonymous with bell bottom pants, daringly short miniskirts, blue jeans and hot pants.
As the Seventies approached it was often difficult to distinguish between what styles were ‘in vogue’ and which were not due to the vast catalogue of styles and trends available.
Decade: Eighties
Ada is photographed wearing a jumper, skirt and shoes by D&G and belt bag by LeSportsac.
Iana is photographed wearing a dress and shoes by D&G and bangles by Alexis Bittar.
During the Eighties, clothing and fashion represented one’s financial / social status and power. With the decline of the previous decades’ repressive approach to fashion, Paris and New York became alight with a gargantuan number of customers seeking to buy pieces direct from the designers.
In this decade, fashion began to become affordable for the masses with producers replicating key pieces from the season, at a percentage of the cost, for the general public. To further nurse the economic burden many suffered, designers such as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger began to create Ready to Wear collections to appeal to the less affluent purse.
Decade: Nineties
Ada is photographed wearing a vest by Isabel Marant, shirt by American Apparel, trousers by Calvin Klein Collection, bracelet by Chloé and Birkenstock sandals.
Iana is photographed wearing a dress by Helmut Lang, silver cuffs by Michael Kors and Birkenstock sandals.
Milica is photographed wearing a dress by Stella McCartney and Birkenstock sandals.
The final decade before the millenium highlighted a divergence from the opulence and luxury that was acquainted with the Eighties. Instead, women exhibited a comfortable silhouette which was prominently influenced by music. The rock ‘n’ roll movement incurred trends such as flannel shirts and ripped jeans whilst the hip hop genre influenced the popularity of baggy trousers.
In the future decades, how will the population rate the trends and fashion decisions of the present day. What should we, as an era, seek to be remembered for? How have we been influenced and by whom?
The editorial was photographed by Jason Kibbler with styling by Fashion Editor Nancy Rohde.
Brazilian fashion label, Ausländer first chose Andrej Pejic and Rick ‘Zombie Boy’ Genest, to exhibit their Spring 2012 collection, on the Rio catwalk in June of this year.
Fashion Rio
The fashionable love affair has continued with the release of Ausländer’s campaign for their Spring 2012 collection. The campaign is constructed solely around Pejic and Genest in the line’s simple fitted attire.
Image: Ausländer
Ricardo Bräutigam is at the helm of the label, his choice of campaign protagonists proving to be hugely successful. The glossy images were photographed by Marcelo Krasilcic with styling by Antonio Frajado and José Camarano.
Image: Ausländer
Once again, Pejic utilises his androgynous qualities to flirt with the boundaries of gender-based attire. In each shot, Pejic exudes confidence and seemless elegance when transitioning between menswear and womenswear.
Image: Ausländer
At merely nineteen years old, Andrej Pejic was scouted during his school years in Melbourne, Australia.
In January of this year, Pejic paraded down the catwalk for both Menswear and Womenswear for Jean-Paul Gaultier and also showcased his talents for Marc Jacobs in the designer’s Menswear show.
Image: Ausländer
In April Pejic was awarded the eleventh rank on the models.com Top 50 Male Models List and also received the 98th rank on FHM Magazine’s 100 Sexiest Women in the World in 2011.
Thus far in his career, Andrej Pejic has worked alongside fashionable greats such as photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Pigott, Steven Meisel and Jeurgen Teller.
Image: Ausländer
Rick Genest was bestowed with the name of ‘Zombie Boy’ by the media and his legion of fans. Genest was first scouted by Thierry Mugler‘s, Nicola Formichetti on Facebook.
Genest’s launch to fashionable society occurred when he opened Thierry Mugler’s Menswear Autumn / Winter 2011 Fashion Show. This was the first show with Formichetti as the design house’s creative director.
Image: Ausländer
The model’s career has spanned the domains of print, catwalk and music television with a prominent cameo role in Lady Gaga‘s video for ‘Born This Way’.
Thus far, Rick Genest has collaborated with Mariano Vivanco, Steven Klein and appeared in editorials for I-D Magazine, Vogue Hommes Japan and GQ Style.
“If you’re a nice person and you work hard, you get to go shopping at Barneys. It’s the decadent reward.”
- Sarah Jessica Parker to Vanity Fair.
With only one hundred and thirty-one days to Christmas, the globe’s most fashionable retailers are beginning to outline their holiday season ventures.
Image: Barneys New York
Barneys New York describe themselves as a mecca for discerning fashionistas, clothing connoisseurs since 1923, a Manhattan institution and an emporium of style and gorgeous products.
Today, the fashion institution announced their Christmas collaboration with fellow New Yorker, Lady Gaga.
The store’s Holiday 2011 Campaign: Gaga’s Workshop, will entail the vision and direction of Lady Gaga, artists Eli Sudbrack and Christophe Hamaide Pierson alongside Thierry Mugler‘s creative director and Gaga’s personal stylist; Nicola Formichetti to create the vocal icon’s interpretation of Santa’s workshop.
The Madison Avenue department store will transform their entire fifth floor into Lady Gaga’s grotto. The songstress’ emporium will be furnished with limited edition gifts designed by Gaga and Formichetti.
Image: Barneys New York
Barneys’ CEO Mark Lee, discussed the future collaboration with Women’s Wear Daily. He exclaimed that;
“Holiday is about joy, sharing and inclusiveness, and to me, Gaga really represents all of that. Her platform is so much about positivity, individuality and universality in a very today way.”
“There are a lot of things for fans of all ages, for kids and kids at heart. I think our existing and new customers will find fun things to share and give as gifts in a lighthearted and not so serious way.”
Gaga’s Workshop will welcome ‘little monsters’ from November until January 2nd.
Barneys New York will also donate 25% of sales on all items from Gaga’s Workshop to a charity of the singer’s choice.
“Some people won’t be happy until they’ve pushed you to the ground. What you have to do is to have the courage to stand your ground and not give them the time of day. Hold on to your power and never give it away”.
- Donna Schoenrock
The first Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was founded in New York in the 1800′s. A female civilian heard a young child crying on the streets of New York. She offered her assistance but the child’s mother rejected her help. The woman made contact with the local police service, but they were prohibited from acting in such situations.
That same woman contacted the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and told them of a mistreatment of an animal in the streets. At once, an inspector arrived and was exasperated when he discovered, that the ill-treated animal was in fact, a child.
A trial was held and the mother was charged with a case of animal cruelty. This trial incurred the founding of the first Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in New York.
The first branch of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children(ISPCC) opened in 1989. Today, the organisation concentrates on preventative work and on raising awareness of the darker side of childhood, which many young people experience.
In the past number of years, the ISPCC has constructed successful bonds, with many of the media’s most well-known personalities. The organisation has bestowed the honour of ISPCC Ambassador upon these iconic personnel.
CEO of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Ashley Balbirnie has said
“It’s a real honour for us to announce our celebrity Ambassadors, all of whom have shown us tremendous support over the years. Westlife, The Script, Mikey Graham and Louis Walsh have consistently supported the Cheerios Childline Concert. Brian O’Driscoll, Colin Farrell, Miriam O’Callaghan, Martin King and Ian Dempsey are regular supporters of our annual fundraising activity. And we welcome Gráinne Seoige, Robbie Keane, Damien Duff, Pat Kenny, Mary O’Rourke, Ryan Tubridy, Jedward and our latest Ambassador; Saoirse Ronan on board.”
Today, the ISPCC launched an anti-bullying awareness campaign which spotlights the role bullying can play on an individual’s physical, emotional and mental health.
The concept of the campaign was birthed by Westlife’s Mark Feehily and features Irish royalty from the domains of film, television and music.
Image: ISPCC
‘I know at first hand how the impact of being bullied as a teenager can quite literally last a lifetime and I thought that if we could involve well-known ISPCC ambassadors perhaps people will think twice about bullying or indeed allowing bullying to happen.’
- Mark Feehily
All participants in the campaign, both in-front of and behind the camera, offered their services gratis.
Barry McCall photographed the striking images with make-up artist Tom McInerney transforming the protagonists into those who have suffered abuse.
Image: ISPCC
“The message from each of these campaign photos is so strong and was a message I was very happy to be part of. Any form of bullying is unacceptable.”
- Saoirse Ronan
Image: ISPCC
“I am delighted to be part of this worthwhile campaign for a charity that truly stands up for children’s rights”
- Laura Whitmore
Image: ISPCC
“If this campaign can stop one incident of bullying then in my book it has been a success”
- Louis Walsh
Image: ISPCC
“We were bullied at school but we were lucky in one way as we had each other. We know first hand how horrible bullying can be and so we jumped at the opportunity to be part of this campaign”
As Summer stars to fade into Autumn, audiences begin to prepare themselves, to once again, aboard the X Factor phenomena.
This season has incurred significant alterations. Louis Walsh will return to the animated panel and is now in receipt of the title, for the longest-serving judge. Simon Cowell, Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue have bid the show adieu, whilst Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos and Kelly Rowland attempt to ameliorate the talent show, in ratings and public image.
The X Factor did not return to the Irish coast to conduct auditions for this season. Much of the country’s most talented musicians traveled to the United Kingdom to showcase their abilities. Element are a promising Irish band who recently auditioned for the popular series.
Image: Element / Geza Oravecz
Element is composed of (from left to right) Kevin Johnson, Brook Wright, Dean Anthony, Simon Murphy and Karl Bowe. The band, who formed through Facebook, describe themselves as an R’n'B group with influences also from the pop and soul genres of music. On the group’s official Facebook page, they enlist Bruno Mars, JLS, Justin Timberlake and Ne-Yo as some of their industry icons.
This band are committed to their music dreams and aspirations. They cite themselves as a unique group, each member with a different background in culture and entertainment. Prior to their X Factor experience, they received tuition and mentoring from The Helen Jordan Stage School and performed in Dublin’s Alexandra College.
This is not the band members’ first attempt at success. Kevin Johnson has previously competed in ‘The All Ireland Talent Show’, Dean Anthony has recorded tracks with Andy Reynolds and Karl Bowe has modeled with Compton Model Agency.
To the ‘social set’ of Dublin, Brook Wright will be a familiar feature. Wright is the stepson of Michael Wright, a keen business man who is the proprietor of The Wright Venue in Swords. Michael has previously owned a record company, this industry information will no doubt support and further the longevity of Element’s career.
One of the most refreshing aspects about this band is not only their dedication to the music industry but they also have a keen interest in supporting charitable foundations. The group have visually tied a link with the Bubblegum Club and have gone as far as referencing, their charitable aspirations on the information blurb, supplied on their Facebook page.
Element deserve every success as they journey through the talent competition and ride the X Factor roller coaster. High expectations have been set for this band and they are definitely one to watch.
A review of the performances at the first day of Oxegen can be viewed here.
Leaving the main arena after the events and music of the first day, it would be hard to not notice the mass of litter and pollution which collated on the ground. Awaking on Saturday morning, I was amazed at the transformation and cleanliness of the same space, within such a short time frame. The staff and management at Oxegen deserve high commendations for their persistence in serving the needs of the weekend’s population.
To those outside the realm of popular culture, Brunker could be perceived as an unknown additive to the Oxegen setlist.
Others who regularly ingest information of a popular nature, would recognise Amanda as a mogul for her literature, television and radio credentials. The Dubliner is the author of the positively acclaimed novella ‘Champagne Kisses’, and has featured as a judge on RTÉ’s ‘The All Ireland Talent Show’.
Amanda Brunker’s appearance at this year’s musical festival proved controversial and sparked much public debate on the nation’s airwaves.
I commend Amanda for her use of initiative and opportunism. With Jessie J’s inability to perform, due to injury, Brunker was awarded a fifteen minute slot on the festival’s second largest venue; the Vodafone stage.
As Saturday’s morning first performance, it was inevitable that the audience size would be on a smaller scale. Amanda appeared on stage after an instrumental introduction from Gitano. For the performance she was attired in an ensemble which could only be described as festival chic. The relaxed fashion decision suited the occasion but a personal preference would have been for Brunker to take a bigger wardrobe risk.
Amanda performed a single track, a cover version of U2′s, ‘With or Without You’. The choice of song was a fitting tribute to the rock band’s lead vocalist. Paul Hewson, more commonly known as Bono, is a close friend of the Brunker family and also gave Amanda away at her wedding at New York’s Rockefeller Center.
Throughout the vocal performance it was difficult to hear Amanda. Brunker has soft voice and an increase in mic volume should be an included adjustment for her future music projects.
The disappointment in Amanda’s set was that it was not lengthy enough. Whilst on stage she commented that “I (she) didn’t have the bravery to do anymore” and merely danced for the duration of the performance. The movements were not choreographed with Brunker swaying to the rhythms of the Spanish accompaniment. It is without doubt that Brunker has rhythm and for future appearances she should risk learning choreography and providing her critics with vocals and movements to an up-beat or dance track.
Brunker faced much criticism before, during and after her appearance at Oxegen. Although this was Amanda’s first music performance – there is not a chance that this will be her last. My advice for her future appearances – do not be afraid to step outside of what is perceived as ‘normal’. When performing have the time of your life, present the unexpected and take risks – lots of them. If people are going to talk, be sure to give them something to talk about.
Saturday 9th July: The Pretty Reckless - Heineken Green Spheres Stage
Without doubt, the performance by The Pretty Reckless was one which I was most eager about viewing. The Pretty Reckless are an alternative rock band from New York. The band is composed of Taylor Momsen on lead vocals, accompanied by Ben Philips, Mark Damon and Jamie Perkins.
Although Momsen is merely nearing her eighteenth birthday, she has been a frequent visitor to film and television since early childhood. Some of Taylor’s most notable roles are as Jenny Humphrey in the CW‘s ‘Gossip Girl’, and Cindy Lou in Ron Howard’s ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’. Taylor Momsen has also fronted the first collection of Madonna and Lourdes Leon’s line ‘Material Girl’.
Image: FanPop
Taylor Momsen has earned a less than stellar reputation for her choice of stage ensembles. In comparison to her preppy attire in ‘Gossip Girl’, Momsen performs scantily clad.
For her Oxegen appearance, the songstress exhibited a look composed of a black brasserie and pants, covered in a mesh sheath. Accessories were limited with only a spiked leather collar and leather ankle boots for decoration.
Although the lead vocalist makes headlines for her risque attire, her vocal abilities and song-writing talents are far superior to many in her age profile. The group’s controversial track titles (such as ‘Make Me Wanna Die’, ‘Zombie’ and ‘Light Me Up’) should not dissuade listeners.
The band’s début album ‘Light Me Up’ provides the audience with an aural journey of thought-provoking lyrics, comparative harmonies and textured melodies. Regardless of your preferred genre of music, one will find at least one track on the album that will appease their sense of hearing.
The Pretty Reckless played to a medium sized audience on the Heineken stage. The fans present appeared extremely loyal with a significant number singing along to each lyric. Momsen was perfection in tone and attitude. She cares little for her critics and performs for her self-love of music.
Unfortunately, The Pretty’s Reckless’ set clashed with that of Bruno Mars. Their audience would have been significantly larger for the duration, had they of been timetabled differently. The New York rockers would be most welcome to perform in the Emerald Isle again soon.
Music Library Requirement: ’Make Me Wanna Die’, ‘Miss Nothing’ and ‘Zombie’.
Image: Peter Neill / Oxegen
Saturday July 5th: Bruno Mars - Vodafone Stage
Peter Gene Hernandez is a Hawaiian singer / songwriter. Hernandez is renowned within popular culture and music under his stage name of ‘Bruno Mars’.
Mars began his vocal career under the guidance and management of Motown Records. This professional collaboration was unsuccessful but in 2009 the signer was signed to Atlantic Records. Bruno Mars first gained popularity for his appearances and features on tracks by Travie McCoy and B.o.B.
Bruno Mars was welcomed to Punchestown Racecourse by a gargantuan crowd of Irish fans. The American star opened his highly anticipated Oxegen set with his current single ‘The Lazy Song’. To appease the festival attendees Mars adjusted the performance of his slow sets to a more up-tempo, retro-fused mix. Mars has frequently spoke of his interest and influences from the Reggae and Motown genres of music.
Vocal ability is not the only talent which the American superstar possesses. At Oxegen, a substancial segment of the set was dedicated to the showcasing of Mars’ dance moves.
Mars is a wonderful performer and is perceived as a charismatic if not cheeky personality. The open-air venue was not overly complimentary to Bruno Mars’ unique style and voice. The external environment often made it difficult for sound to travel and the choreographed routines were blurred from ground level.
This performance would come highly recommended if such act was taking place in an intimate venue or at least a location with overhead shelter. Bruno Mars cannot be faulted in relation to his natural talents but music festivals do not appear to be the most suitable ‘scene’ for him.
Music Library Requirement: ’Walking on the Moon’
Image: Peter Neill / Oxegen
Image: Peter Neill / Oxegen
Image: Peter Neill / Oxegen
Saturday July 5th: Arctic Monkeys - Main Stage
Previous to my experience at Oxegen, I could never have been described as a die-hard fan of the Arctic Monkeys. My opinions of them have since changed drastically.
From their first note, the Arctic Monkeys exuded a comfortable confidence in front of the eager Irish audience. The band had little interest in creative backdrops and lighting effects to excel their performance. They required only their instruments, natural talent and an excellent repertoire of songs to put on a stellar performance.
Nothing within their set could be described as a ‘gimmick’ or a quest for additional publicity. The group who hail from Sheffield, England sated their fans’ appetites with an uncomplicated performance that was solely based on the transference of music from artist to listener.
Front-man of the band, Alex Turner has an almost haunting quality to his voice that can send chills down the listener’s spine. My favourite track ‘Don’t Sit Down Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair’, from their new album ‘Suck It and See’, exhibits the polyphonic vocal textures which Turner is most renowned for.
The album is an essential additive to every music library. The thumping drum beats and guitar riffs will ameliorate the listener’s every mood.
Music Library Requirement: ’Don’t Sit Down Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair’
