Kevin's Korner

a safe space for a pop culture obsessed human.

[kevinskorner]

2023 Grammy Predictions: Big Four Categories

Well here we are. A little more than one month out from the nominations are announced for the 2023 Grammy Awards. Awards season is always my favorite time of year so I'm always thinking about the next award shows, the nominations and the winners. Going into next years Grammy's, we have a lot of competition like always but this year there seems to be a lot more prominent artists in the running than the past few years.

Today, I will be sharing my predictions for the Big Four Categories (Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist) as we gear up for the nominations announcement on November 15th.

I feel pretty good about my predictions for Album of the Year. All of these have good reasoning behind them. Adele, Brandi Carlile, Kendrick Lamar & Beyonce are all well known Grammy favorites. Silk Sonic proved last year that the Grammys also love them. Lizzo's sophomore effort is very solid and I do not think the Grammys will miss out on nominating her again. Harry and Bad Bunny are two of the biggest artists of the year and it would be huge snubs if either missed out. The one surprise on my list might be Jack Harlow's album but I feel confident the Grammys will nominate it because they always choice a mediocre nominee.

Alternates: Motomami by Rosalia & Encanto Soundtrack

Record of the Year is pretty self explanatory. All mainstream hits but I would not be surprised if the Recording Academy swap some of these out (maybe First Class, Shivers, Titi Me Pregunto) for some more indie choices.

Song of the Year is similar to Record but has a few more songwriter heavy choices. I think TV is a special inclusion because its a poignant song and I would be surprised if Billie missed for this category especially. All Too Well (10 Minute Version) should definitely get in here as well.

I just have to start off firstly by saying if you told me a year ago I would be predicting Dove Cameron to be nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy I would say you are out of your damn mind. I mean I've been a fan since I saw the first episode of Liv & Maddie in 2013 but I honestly never thought her music career would ever pop off. It's crazy to think that artists like Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato never got Best New Artist Grammy nominations in their Disney days but Olivia Rodrigo did and Dove Cameron has a good chance to as well. Anywho, this year there is no clear front runner for this category and that makes it very tricky to predict but I feel I have a good feel for the category this year. Lainey & Zach are rising Country artists that I expect to be around for awhile, Latto has risen to be a star this year, as Tate McRae and Dove Cameron have. Muni Long deserves a nomination after a few breakout hits and having been in the game as a songwriter for so long. Omar and Joji are the indie/alternative lovable boys that I can see getting in. Rina is on the rise and I would be thrilled to have her get a nomination and, I think it would be cool in Wet Leg got a nomination here also.

Well, there it is. My predictions for the Big Four categories for the upcoming 2023 Grammy Awards. See you again on November 15th to see how many of these I got write and discuss the craziness that is the Recording Academy's decisions...

[kevinskorner]

Blonde Movie Review: Marilyn Deserves More

In the 2022 film Blonde, Ana de Armas plays a fictionalized telling of Marilyn Monroe's life from birth to deathbed.

It is pretty obvious to many why a Marilyn Monroe biopic would be interesting. She’s arguably the most famous woman of all time, who was adored by many and critiqued by more, she had a whole different name before being famous, and she sadly died young which led many to speculate and ultimately left a lasting impact on the world. So there is many reasons why going into this film, one would be excited and have high hopes but it ends up making you feel indifferent in the end. 

Within the first hour, you see a rape, an abortion, multiple suicide attempts and more relentless trauma unfold in Marilyn’s life. Due to all this trauma being unfolded, you cannot help but feel like it is an exploration of her and it doesn’t attempt to try to show her any respect. However, I cannot help but try to figure out why a biopic based on arguably the most famous woman of all time would be made this way? All of this to say this movie is based on the factionalized novel of the same name but still you would think that when someone wants to make a movie on a true icon in every sense of the word, they would do it out of admiration and maybe even love. The film did do a good job of making me consider why someone who do a film like this on a real person in the spotlight. Is it to show how horrible our media was to her and all the trauma we have to witness is to remind us all what we, the public, did to her? Or is it just an inconsiderate director who wanted to make a film but did not show any care to its subject? No one would ever doubt the amount of trauma Marilyn had to go through as Norma Jean and again as Marilyn but when it is made into a film, the audience can easily get drained and it is not enjoyable. I do believe that Ana de Armas came to this project with a lot of admiration for Marilyn and tried to give her a genuine dedication. Nonetheless, her performance comes up short because it does not feel very connected to Marilyn in my opinion and she did have some trouble with the accent. Since the film is using a fictionalized novel about a public real person as its back bone, it struggles harshly with accuracy and telling a true story. If you want to watch this movie to learn something about Marilyn, you most likely will not, even though it is a two hour and forty seven minute long film. Coming in at close to three hours, the only way I can see this film be appreciated is as an art piece. This film could have been a true success if it was about a real person. I would have honestly enjoyed this film much more if it wasn’t trying to depict a real persons life because it would just be another well made dramatic film. My favorite part of the movie and the only reason why I would recommend anyone to watch it is for the cinematography. The cinematography is done very artfully and unique which is great to see since many biopic films are usually one note. In Blonde, its cinematography is chameleon like because it changes aspect ratios often and goes from black white to color often. It’s pretty to look at definitely and some of the scenes of Ana as Marilyn do look beautiful.  I admire the artistry of the creation of the film but it fails at what the big picture should be. It seems that we probably never will know the truth when it comes to the most known woman of all time, and maybe it should stay like that. 

The film seems desperate in its attempt of her longing for a father figure and making men be the heroes of her story. Even though her life ended shortly, she got to the success she attained alone. The film makes me question a lot when it comes to how the story was told. I can’t help but think maybe if the film was directed by a woman instead of a man would it be better or different? Since this storytelling of Marilyn is done where she is exceptionally vulnerable, I can’t help to think a female director might be able to show the vulnerability in a more accurate way. It contradicts itself constantly and that’s my biggest problem with it.

[kevinskorner]

My 2022 Film Awards:

Well, it has definitely been quite a while since I have last wrote on here. I am a college student in my sophomore year and started working last summer so it has been harder to write and do this hobby I used to love doing. To bring back this blog, I want to bring it back in a big way: with my own film awards. Award season is currently in full effect and it has always been my favorite season for my whole life. Similar to the Oscars, here are my own personal nominees and what I would want to win.

Best Picture:

Maybe:

Parallel Mothers

Red Rocket

Belfast

Best Director is an interesting category because I was torn between Steven and PTA. I overall chose PTA because I think I enjoy his artistic choices a lot more even though Steven did a hell of a job with WSS.

Best Actress is my favorite category every year. These 5 ladies wowed me and I love every single one of their performances.

Best Actor was a hard one to decide when it came to the winner. I decided to go with Simon Rex because he is that whole movie and I love how he plays a somewhat similar version of himself if we went back to the life he used to have like his character.

This category was definitely the hardest to choose a winner. All 5 of them are A+'s imo. Every one of these performances hit me and made me feel something. Ruth ended up winning because she delivers an excellent supporting performance that leaves you thinking.

This lineup is such a slay for a category I don't usually find much interest in. Woody Norman is my winner because no matter his age, he filled his role with so much heart.

Best Original Screenplay:

C’mon C’mon

Parallel Mothers

Red Rocket

The French Dispatch

Licorice Pizza

Best Adapted Screenplay:

Coda

Dune

Zola

Tick Tick Boom

Passing

Best Documentary:

Billie Eilish: The World’s A Little Blurry

Flee

Best Animated Feature:

Flee

Luca

The Mitchell’s vs The Machines

Best Production Design:

West Side Story

Dune

The Tragedy of Macbeth

Best Film Editing:

Licorice Pizza

Zola

King Richard

Best Cinematography:

West Side Story

The French Dispatch

Dune

Spencer

Best Original Score:

Zola

Parallel Mothers

C’mon C’mon

The French Dispatch

Dune

Best Original Song:

Be Alive from King Richard

No Time to Die from No Time to Die

Just Look Up from Don’t Look Up

Here I Am (Singing My Way Home) from Respect

[kevinskorner]

SOUR.

SOUR, the debut album from Olivia Rodrigo, out May 21, 2021.

Olivia Rodrigo is without a doubt the breakout star of the year. Now that her first full length project is in our hands, she has proven herself tremendously. The talent is absolutely there in full force all over this album. She has a great mix of so many different versatile parts of musical artists we all like and that's why I think she is breaking all these records because so many people can relate to her. Her music has some coffee shop vibes for locals, big pop moments for pop fans, acoustic moody songs for the older crowd, modern alt-rock for the e-boys/girls of 2021 and more. It tackles so many points in the musical landscape and she brings it all together for SOUR. There is so much that is so special about Olivia's career already, the fact that she is a current Disney actress but her music career is not connected at all, the chart and generation z dominance, and all of that makes everyone pay attention to her. The vocals on this album paired with the lyrical content makes a very powerful experience that many people can relate to. When Olivia reaches those big belts in many of these songs or even when it's just her whispering, you feel so much. Olivia touches on so many emotions on this record that every human has experience with, especially teens. Selfishness, love, heartbreak, jealousy, insecurities, sadness, and bitterness are just some of the feelings Olivia reaches on this album.

One interesting point about this whole Olivia rise that I haven't seen people talk about is how she is apart of Geffen Records and she is responsible for their resurgence. Geffen Records was popular in the 2000's and one of their biggest breakthrough artists was Ms. Ashlee Simpson. Ashlee Simpson had a big dominance in the 2000's decade that is very similar to Olivia's now. The way Ashlee dominated with the alt-rock pop teenage crowd as a teenage girl who went against the machine or the agenda is the exact same way Olivia is. Like how Olivia has Disney to break apart of, Ashlee had her "perfect" pop singer sister Jessica to break apart of. Ashlee was known for her music to be a big differ from her sisters, more alternative with earnest lyrics and Olivia is in a way the second coming of that. The more emotional, intimate, and relatable music that Olivia and Ashlee make is what makes them more of respectable artists because we are getting who they really are. There is nothing artificial about Olivia and there was nothing really artificial about Ashlee.

In the song "jealousy, jealousy", Olivia says "co-comparison is killin' me slowly, I think I think too much, 'bout kids who don't know me; I'm so sick of myself, I'd rather be rather be, anyone anyone else; My jealousy jealousy started followin' me". Boy do I relate to that! Co-comparison is my biggest weakness (and the main topic of my therapy sessions that I've been going to for 5 years haha) and to hear someone talk about it in a song is so refreshing. I know I'm not the only one who deals with comparing myself or jealousy but there are not many songs that talk about it. When I find myself in those moments and as I try to grow out of it and find confidence in myself, songs like that are what help me. "hope ur ok" is such a beautiful touching ballad about the others she cares about. it is the last track on the album which is reminiscent of the last track on Conan Gray's debut album, "The Story". That song is about friendship and growing up together similar to "hope ur ok". Both songs pull at my heartstrings and make me think about the people in my life that i've gone though or those forgotten, and I want them to know that I still care for them.

There is so much in this album that is filled with so many intricate details that I probably won't realize until I do more and more listens. Overall, the best part of this whole album and the Olivia Rodrigo breakthrough is that she is just starting. This is just the very beginning of a dominant worldwide career that will most likely last decades. She already has all the best aspects of a great artist and as she grows up, like the rest of us, her artistic vision will just grow tremendously.

star rating (out of 5): ⭑⭑⭑⭑

standout tracks: "favorite crime", "good 4 u", "enough for you", "driver's license", "brutal", "traitor" and "hope ur ok".

[kevinskorner]

Sister's by Chance, Music SENSATIONS by Choice

A Touch of the Beat Gets You Up on Your Feet Gets You Out and Then Into the Sun, the fourth studio album by Aly & AJ, out May 7, 2021.

Aly and AJ finally have given us their fourth full length studio album that we have all been waiting 14 years for. Oh, and guess what? It does not disappoint one bit. Aly & AJ have been a fixture in my life since I was a very young child. Memories of playing their first album, Into the Rush, in my cd player and jamming out to my favorites still roam through my mind. I always was fond of them and thought that they were just a joy to listen to. They were even apart of my first concert experience when they (and the Jonas Brothers) opened up for The Cheetah Girls. Funny side note, i fell asleep once the Cheetah Girls came on (because I rocked out too much to Aly & AJ). When they went quiet musically towards the end of the 2000's decade and early 2010's decade, I really missed them. When they finally came back in 2017, I was right there ready to hear what they had in store. "Take Me" is a pure jam that was perfect for people like me to reminisce on our former faves but also, be eager to hear their new sound. Even though they released two great EP's and many singles since coming back in the mainstream, I have been eagerly waiting for a full length project. a touch of the beat gets you up on your feet gets you our and then into the sun is exactly what I was expecting from these two and I'm so glad. The absolutely breathtaking first track "Pretty Places", is perfect for the introduction to this album because it gets you ready for the beautiful journey they are going to take you on. Every track there on out is pretty superb. The just absolutely found the sound for them with the mix of 80s, alternative, folk, and dance. Their vocals blended together make it a great time all around. The first song released from the project, "Slow Dancing", blew me away on the first listen and still is after many listens since then. "Don't Need Nothing" the track where the album title comes from, is a foot tapper but, your foot never stops tapping. When they start with that "a touch of the beat gets you up..." you just want to dance and sing it with them. If you were to only hear one song from this album (even though you should definitely hear the whole thing) I might recommend "Personal Cathedrals". It has everything that the album represents, the acoustic instruments, finding joy in being alone with your love, dancing, great harmony, and just a good time. "Hold Out" is the album closer and was a great choice because its simple and raw. From top to bottom, the album brings you on a ride, like your driving cross country and at the end you finally get to your destination. (Side note, this album is PERFECT for a road trip). The only real complaint is there might be some odd choices here and there but overall, its still great. They find the joining of nostalgia and future, with real instruments, beats, and vocals.

star rating (out of 5): ⭑⭑⭑⭑

standout tracks: "Pretty Places", "Slow Dancing", "Lost Cause", "Paradise", "Listen!!!", "Stomach".

[kevinskorner]

Bebe's Back Making Some (Better) Mistakes

Better Mistakes, the second album from Bebe Rexha, out May 7th, 2021.

Weird sounds and bad mistakes is what Bebe Rexha’s sophomore album is all about! From the odd way she changes her voice to say the title on the song “My Dear Love”, or the SHAKEY vocals on the first verse of “Death Row” or even the surprise I had when she says “I should go fuck my ex” on the title track, this album is definitely interesting! The lead single, “Baby, I’m Jealous” with Doja Cat, was released back in the Fall of 2020 and as much fun as it is, it ultimately should not have been the lead. This album all together seems a bit more darker than what "Baby, I'm Jealous" is telling. If “Sacrifice” was the lead single and the first peek to this era, I think it would’ve made more sense and brought more ears to listen. I absolutely adore "Sacrifice" and think that it should be a lead contender for the song of the summer. The spooky music video is a fun bloody dance party and definitely the best Bebe has released so far. "Sabotage" is a beautiful ballad that shows the audience at Bebe's thoughts, and shows her powerful vocals that have been hiding from us. “On the Go (feat. Pink Sweat$ and Lunay)” was a surprise favorite of mine. I love the moody feels that it gives me, it makes me feel like I'm in a long distance relationship away from my partner. More specifically, like I'm on a tour bus without the person I love. The rest of the album is a little all over the place, "Break My Heart Myself (feat. Travis Barker)" wasn't the powerful pop punk song I was expecting, "Die for a Man (feat. Lil Uzi Vert)" is fine but I'm not a Uzi fan so I don't really care about it. The closing tracks "Amore (feat. Rick Ross)" and "Mama" are peculiar in the sense that they both have very noticeable samples. The former sample is obvious and as a song, it is very reminiscent of a Fergie song that also had a Rick Ross feature. and the latter sample of "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a nice touch to a song dedicated to her mother. Overall, I feel perplexed about this album because you can hear that it seems like Bebe knows who she is but, ultimately she's still trying to find her voice. There are times when the songs sound well together and make sense for Bebe but other times they just don’t work, plain and simple. I think of myself as a Bebe fan and I did not even know the album was coming out this soon. I knew it was coming but I didn’t realize TODAY. I was quite saddened when i realized that the album came out today because if I, a fan, doesn’t know when it’s coming... the general public definitely doesn’t. A question I had while listening was, “who is this music for?” who is the audience? i’m not sure what or who Bebe’s crowd or fan base is, and i think she doesn't know either.

star rating (out of 5) : ⭑⭑⭑

standouts: "Sabotage", "Sacrifice", "On the Go", "Trust Fall", & "Death Row"

[kevinskorner]

Demi’s Done Dancing With the Devil, ready to Start Over

Demi’s time is now. 

   Starting the album with “Anyone”, i realized i don’t think i ever heard the real studio version of the song before. As somebody who went to the TMYLM tour, and saw Demi just a few weeks shy of her getting back into drugs & alcohol, “Anyone” makes a lot of sense. She says “I feel stupid when I sing” and “nobody’s listening to me”, she could most definitely be talking about the shows she did after getting back into the dark stuff, and wanting to talk about it but having to put on a smile and sing for the crowd, while she’s struggling so much inside. i remember the iconic Grammy performance last year of “Anyone” and this might be controversial but I kind of think she should’ve put the LIVE version as a bonus track on the album. However, in the song she is begging for someone to help her, and then that goes into “Dancing with the Devil” which makes sense. “Dancing with the Devil” is going to be a signature song in Demi’s discography. It perfectly captures the horrific and tragic time in her life but has a great storyline with her usual amazing vocals. (side note: the video is incredible, the fact that she felt she had to reenact the whole overdose for the video is really stunning). “ICU (Madison’s Lullabye)” was absolutely stunning. The double entendre of “ICU” and “I see you” was brilliant. I love how she dedicates this song to her little sister, it’s so sweet. If you know me, you know I love a good interlude so I love how “Intro” seamlessly goes into “The Art of Starting Over”. This song can be a perfect summer jam. Its breezy and hopeful which I really love. I’m all about new beginnings that’s for damn sure. On “Lonely People” I hear a lot of different things. I hear a little “Here We Go Again” Demi andI hear a little “Rare” by Selena Gomez/Julia Michaels inspo in the verses. I do quite like the song and I can definitely see myself singing along to the chorus. The guitar on “The Way You Don’t Look At Me” is so beautiful, I love the guitar so much. Also, the lyrics/vocal performance go so perfect together? This song feels like a PB&J haha, everything comes together so nicely and the final product is a beautiful song. “Melon Cake” is such an odd title but I totally get it. I love the lyric “No more Melon Cakes on Birthdays” because I’m sure she really did have cakes made of fruit on her birthdays instead of a traditional birthday cake. This is Demi’s emancipation with food; she can control what the hell she wants to eat now. After a long battle with eating disorders, Demi is now stable with her eating, and as someone who has their own eating disorder struggles, I’m so thrilled for her. The collaboration of “Met Him Last Night” with Ariana is such a dream. THE HARMONY ON “I DON’T BELIEVE IN YOU”!?! I want to be in a STRIP CLUB in NYC, NOW. The fusion of Demi & Ariana is TRULY great. I love this pairing so much, and I love hearing Demi on an Ariana type beat. This one really slaps, HARD. Onto another collaboration that i have grown to LOVE, “What Other People Say” with Sam Fischer. The “yeah, yeah-yeah” ’s after the chorus are *chef’s kiss*. I am really happy this was a collaboration with a male singer because as a male who has struggled with his body, I have never heard a man talking about those issues in a song before and, I thank Demi for adding Sam Fischer so guys like me can relate too. “Carefully” really builds up and comes together as a pretty and lovely song. Demi just wants somebody that will be able to understand her and know how to really love her. 

   Demi is really crushing it with the choruses on this album, “The Kind of Lover I Am” is another one with a great, able to sing along chorus. Similar to the second title track, it’s a breezy, summery, queer anthem that many can relate to (even with that really funny outro). “Easy” is an INCREDIBLE surprise collaboration. So powerful, I immediately got chills, seconds into it. Noah sounds so good and the instruments/strings compliment her so nicely. “15 Minutes” works conceptually but doesn’t really come together for an odd reason. There’s a lot of potential here, but I think the song would be better if they came up with another phrase instead of “15 Minutes”. It’s kind of like her “Irreplaceable”, but I think it doesn’t work as much as it could’ve. The production on “My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriends” is dark, sultry and sexy. The song is fun and I can definitely see this growing on me, as I was dancing along to it already. I feel though the Saweetie feature is a tad lackluster. “California Sober” is such a comforting song to hear come from Demi. This is the type of song I was hoping to hear from her after the OD. The cover of “Mad World” was a smart idea to add to the album, but I feel like it should’ve been added to the top of the album? Around the top three tracks is where it would’ve made more sense for placement, nonetheless a delightful cover, worthy to be here. After watching the new docu-series, I know that “Butterfly” is about her dad and seeing the butterfly on the album is so symbolic now. In the docuseries, Demi says how she spent time helping others with mental health and addiction but didn’t help her own father. Her father tragically died alone of addiction, the way Demi was most afraid he would; she did not want him to die alone. I’ve been told by my own parents that butterfly’s are our loved ones that passed saying hi, and this song will always be in my head now whenever I see one. “Good Place” is a poignant and important end to the album. This is what the whole album comes down to, Demi learning from her mistakes and being in a good place, thankfully. This song features another lovely guitar and of course her being in this place makes me happy because that’s all I want for her. 

   This is a real great transitional record for Demi. It’s taking her into a new path in her life and career, in a more natural and positive light. The only real flaw i feel on the album was the songwriting. There were a lot of writers and i feel that if Demi had less, the songs would’ve been constructed more precisely. This album has been a longtime coming especially for her fans like me, after the overdose. I just wanted her to make her best, most mature material yet and i think she did tonight. I can’t wait to see what the future holds. 

star rating (out of 5): ⭑⭑⭑⭑

standout tracks: “Dancing with the Devil”, “Met Him Last Night”, “What Other People Say”, “Carefully”, “Easy”, “California Sober”, & “Butterfly”.  

[kevinskorner]

Olivia Rodrigo is giving us “Deja Vu”

Seeing the rise of a new Disney girl is so fun. Olivia is very reminiscent of Miley to me because they both made original, true to them music, while still apart of the Disney machine. Now, after Olivia’s surprise monstrous hit “Driver’s License”, she’s back to prove that she here to stay. 

First off, I love how Olivia is making this sound mainstream. This indie pop is delectable, it adds some flavor to the mainstream bubblegum we usually get. (and this is coming from a pop devotee). When it comes to the lyrics, they are just as great as her previous material. I actually think the lyrics on this are more fun than her previous material. I love the shoutouts to strawberry ice cream and Glee. the “YEAH EVERYTHING’S ALL REUSED” and “I KNOW YOU GET DEJA VU” are very reminiscent of “Cruel Summer” by Taylor, “I loved you, ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard!” but I am not mad at it. I know how devoted Olivia is to Taylor so I wouldn’t say she is copying her at all. 

I think that this type of Deja Vu she is talking about is interesting and i’m surprised nobody has done it yet? the idea of someone getting Deja Vu from doing the same thing with different lovers is smart and you would think someone would have done that by now but i guess not!

When it comes to the video, she looks UNREAL, so truly beautiful. The video has a great direction and aesthetic, and a unique storyline that messes with your mind. Overall, I think this is a great next step for her and i am EAGERLY anticipating her debut album. 

[kevinskorner]

“JUSTICE” IS SERVED!

Justice the sixth studio album by Justin Bieber, released on March 19, 2021.

Justin Bieber is back in full swing (but did he ever go away) with a new album titled Justice. Now, Justin and I have a history, quite a long one in fact! Ever since 2009 when my cousin and her then fiancé worked at Def Jam and worked for the new little artist to the record label who just came out with his debut single “One Time”. I remember my sister and I each getting a signed poster, little skateboard keychains, and more of the first ever Justin Bieber merch. Back then I was a closeted Belieber (even though I had a bad way of showing it), I wouldn’t outwardly say “I love Justin Bieber and I love his music” when I was ages 7-11 but, boy did I stan. He was the first male artist I could look up to and I will always feel connected to him and care about him. Fast forward to his record breaking and frankly iconic Purpose era when I was in full-out stan mode, ready to go to the tour, then he cancels my show and goes silent. In the four years from end of the Purpose era to Changes, he put out a few songs (Including smash hit collaborations like the remix of “Despacito”, “I’m the One”, and “I Don’t Care”) which I didn’t pay too much attention too. When the Changes era started on Jan 1, 2020, I didn’t think I was in for a good time, and I was right. Changes just isn’t his best work and not what I wanted his “big return to music” to be. I mean he took that four year break, sadly got Lyme disease, got married, and really changed but not for the better in my opinion. He didn’t even look like himself, the music all sounded one note, and it wasn’t enjoyable. I think he realized that when Covid came around and I think a lightbulb went off where he realized he had to do better. With “Stuck with U”, his much healthier, much more “JUSTIN BIEBER” look, and the releases of “Holy”, “lonely” and “Anyone”, my stan card became activated again. I have been anticipating this album because I love his music and want real good material from him. 

This is my real time review of Justin Bieber’s new album Justice. 

2 MUCH - great vocals. similar lyrics to what was on Changes but, definitely feels more mature than that whole album. i’m iffy on the MLK intro but, i would say overall its a good start to the album.

DESERVE YOU - i GASPED. a STANDOUT. its just REALLY GOOD music you would expect from Justin at this stage in the game. a mix of chill/smooth/pop/mature. chefs kiss omg. ⭐

AS I AM (feat. Khalid) - a real nice blend of both Justin and Khalid. I really enjoy the chorus but towards the end when he starts singing faster, i think with the beat it becomes a lil clashed. 

OFF MY FACE - a cute little acoustic moment that shows off his vocals. i dont know if i can say what “off my face” means? thats alright tho.

HOLY (feat. Chance the Rapper) - it REALLY grew on me as time went on. at first, i wasnt here for the christian based music and i still think it can be a lot sometimes. however, if Chance wasn’t on it, I def would like it a lot more. 

UNSTABLE (feat. The Kid LAROI) - kinda giving driving in NYC at midnight vibes? (which are my fave). i can def get behind this, the collab is good and interesting because i see a lotttt of Justin influence in the Kid Laroi. i can see myself ending up loving this with more listens.

MLK INTERLUDE - i get what he’s trying to do but, none of the songs have been about “JUSTICE” so far….?

     okay but the MLK interlude ending with the word “justice…” and going into the next song was very smooth. 

DIE FOR YOU (feat. Dominic Fike) - 80s Halloween? OKAYYY. that talking monotone chorus, KINDA LOVE. ⭐

HOLD ON - has grown on me since first listen. i like the lyrics and performance on the bridge. would i change it if it came on the radio? no way. would i willingly pick it to listen to on this album? no. 

   ↑ “midnight til morning call if you need somebody…” transitions to ↓

SOMEBODY - okayyyyy that chorus drop? HELLA good. could 100% see this as a single and a good one! i am already picturing a video. was a tad lackluster when it came to lyrical content however. ⭐

GHOST - ooooo that lyric “if i can’t be close to you, ill settle for the ghost of you”. again, a really nice mature pop song from JB.

PEACHES (feat. Daniel Caeser & GIVĒON) - as cheesy the lyrics might be, its a vibe. the video gave major Lolly/Purpose era Justin, which is a GREAT MIX. i meannn he’s hot, he’s flaunting, I’m buying it. i want some juicy peaches. the collars are nice R&B moments but don’t add anything ~necessary~. 

LOVE YOU DIFFERENT (feat. Beam) - sort of like a little african music mixed with computer PC music? the beat is very african influenced but, i hear a little PC in there. i can dance to this for sure and if that’s all he wants then hey! he got me! oh this lyric and the way he says it… “lets make BAaAabAaes”…. 🙂

LOVED BY YOU (feat. Burna Boy) - a fun little jam that had more substance than i thought.

ANYONE - my fave release/single of his since Cold Water I think. even if it’s a Camila reject, he did a great job with this one.

LONELY (with Benny Blanco) - really nice MATURE vocal performance. not my favorite thing from him because i’m sorta tired of the pity party but i get it i guess.

If only this was the album Justin released after his four year hiatus.... Justice is a great album from a much more seasoned male pop star, where he recognizes his growth but remembers where he succeeds. I said the word a lot in the real time review but it really is MATURE. This is what I would have expected from a 27 year old Justin Bieber, ten years ago. This is his total bag, I appreciate a little adventure here and there but, this is where it’s at for the Biebs. I am so happy that Justin finally got to this spot and good release real quality music again. It is funny though that I feel like there isn’t much of a “JUSTICE” message to this album besides the MLK stuff, so I actually feel like the appropriate title for this album would’ve been Changes. If he titled this Changes instead of Justice but kept that songs and awesome aesthetic, oof it would be a *chef’s kiss*. 

star review (out of 5) - ⭑⭑⭑(& 1/2)

standouts: “Deserve You”, “Die for You (feat. Dominic Fike)”, “Somebody”, “Peaches (feat. Daniel Caeser & GIVĒON)”, “Anyone”

[kevinskorner]

2020 VMA’s Recap!

Every year, I always look forward to a few things and one of those things is definitely the MTV Video Music Awards. The VMA’s have been iconic every year since it’s inauguration in 1984 with Madonna’s Like A Virgin performance. As the insanely obsessed pop culture person that I am, the VMA’s are like a national holiday and I prepare myself heavily before they happen. For this year, obviously things are different because of a little thing called the Covid-19 Pandemic but anyhow, I was still excited. When the nominees got announced I was a very mixed bag of emotions. I was very excited because Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande got the most nominations of the year (9) but, I was disappointed because Harry Styles and Dua Lipa only got technical nominations and didn’t get any in the main category. One of my friends shared the same disappointment with me and they said how every nominee in Video of the Year was from North America and I didn’t even think of that. I wish they didn’t nominate some things... but that’s alright. As the weeks went on, I voted for my faves and MTV announced Keke Palmer was hosting whichreally got me excited again because she is a queen. Also, when they announced the performers, my favorites being Miley, Gaga, Ariana, and Doja, I became thrilled.

Now, here I am with my Rain on Me shirt on, a few hours after the ceremony ended and I got to say, I am IMPRESSED!!! That was an AMAZING ceremony. For an award show during a pandemic, I got to say MTV pulled, it, off. Let’s get into it!:

OH. MY. GAGA. 

Lady Gaga was the star of the night and I am NOT disappointed one bit. Going into the night as the most nominated artist (tied with Ariana) I had high hopes. When I heard she was performing, I screamed because I couldn’t believe we were FINALLY getting a performance in the Chromatica era. Knowing that she had so much planned for the era, it’s been sad to see none of it come to fruition. Now let’s live in the present. THIS PERFORMANCE?!? FREAKING INCREDIBLE. I don’t even know where to start. The beginning of the performance with the old television, her laying down on the couch (mask on!), and seeing the TV have the 1999 VMA’s (with BRITNEY mentioned!) was when I knew it was going to be one of the best performances of her career. THEN, she WENT DOWN THE POLL and Chromatica II started playing and I almost threw up. I was so excited that she chose to do that interlude and sing some of 911 (maybe the third single?)! I was shook. Next, she had a quick change and started singing Rain on Me, and I immediately was hyperventilating. When Ariana came out, I really thought I was gonna pass out. In that moment, I was just seeing a dream come true in front of my eyes. I saw two of my ultimate QUEENS come together and give me all the life I need. I mean, the outfits, the masks, the chemistry, ARIANA’S HIGH NOTE?! GAGA’S VOCALS?! I can’t even. After that, when she started walking to the Brain piano, I thought she was about to do 1000 Doves (Piano Version) but I was mistaken! It was the first single, STUPID LOVE! Honestly, I was so happy she performed Stupid Love and got it’s moment because that wasn’t even performed live yet before tonight. Her speech in between the Stupid Love performance was beautiful and I loved when she brought the beat in and danced her ass off. Ugh, I just love her so much. 

Onto the actual awards, I cannot believe that she won FIVE! I expected Best Collaboration and was hoping for Artist of the Year but I was NOT expecting Song of the Year! The one that I didn’t even know was happening thought was the FIRST EVER, TRICON AWARD?! The fact that MTV gave Gaga her OWN award for being an icon, a legend and a triple threat was filling my Little Monster heart with such PRIDE and JOY! Seeing her go up on that stage in a new look with a new mask each time, gave me a little boost of serotonin each time. She is just a goddess. There is no one like her and there NEVER will be. 

GOOD GOLLY, MISS MILEY

It feels amazing to be a Miley stan tonight. Miley has been one of my absolute role models since I was a child. I have followed her and supported her my whole life even when people didn’t and I got to say, tonight felt really good. Her performance was PHENOMENAL. Starting off with her GORGEOUS silhouette in that STUNNING black dress and  cross necklace with the red chrome light shook me because I was not expecting that. And, that break before the first chorus?!? LOVED. After, it went to a blue chrome and she started walking while it went full color. When I saw her walk towards some stairs, I had to catch my breath. Suddenly, I see a disco ball. Then she took the bottom half of the dress off and hopped on the disco ball and I SCREAMED. LOUDLY. The fact that she has such an ICONIC moment like Wrecking Ball where she can do something eerily similar and EVERYBODY knows it, is fucking SENSATIONAL! HER VOCALS WERE ON POINT, FACE BEAT, BODY SNATCHED. She just gave the most perfect glam rock pop star performance that I’ve ever seen. Miley having this mainstream moment again just made me so happy. ALSO?! SHE WON TWO AWARDS TONIGHT. I cannot believe Miley won two VMA’s tonight. She doesn’t win a lot of awards (which is extremely disappointing) and to see her win TWO for MOTHER’S DAUGHTER a single from last year that peaked at #54 on the Billboard Hot 100 felt incredible. I just love when she gets the recognition she deserves.   

Other Thoughts:

The Weeknd’s opening performance was so great!! Recently, I have gotten sick of Blinding Lights but this performance totally revitalized for me how great of a song that is. I don’t know how he was up so high but he did an awesome job and the fireworks were great! Also, I’m happy he finally won his first two VMA’s for Best R&B (even though it’s a pop song) and Video of the Year. 

Keke’s hosting was entertaining as hell. She was the perfect host for a time like this for many reasons. She’s funny, relatable, beautiful, entertaining and so many more positive things. I found her really funny and I just love her presence as a whole. Even her little performance was cute too! 

Doja Cat actually blew me away. I was not expecting her to serve that hard. The performance was so futuristic and felt like I was in a new universe. I loved her outfit and LOVED the Say So mix! Also, so happy she included Like That because it’s such a jam. I love Doja and ever since I discovered Juicy last year I've been stanning and this definitely solidified the stan for me. I am so happy that she won (RIGHTFULLY SO!) for Best New Artist. She has had a great rise and her performance definitely gives me high hopes for her future. 

My rankings of the performances are:

Pre Show:

1. Chloe x Halle - Ungodly Hour (THESE QUEENS ARE THE FUTURE!)

2. Machine Gun Kelly w/ blackbear & Travis Barker - My Ex’s Best Friend/Bloody Valentine (I have become really obsessed with his new music recently and love him)

3. Tate McRae - You Broke Me First (surprised by this cause I didn’t know anything about her before but she did a good job!)

4. Jack Harlow - What’s Poppin (cute ig)

5. Lewis Capaldi - Before You Go (🙂)

Main Show: 1. Lady Gaga w/ Ariana Grande - Chromatica II, 911, Rain on Me, Stupid Love (FUCKING AMAZING. SENSATIONAL, &, UNREAL)

2. Miley Cyrus - Midnight Sky (MY QUEEN SO ICONIC I LOVE HER SO MUCH)

3. Doja Cat - Say So/Like That (SO FUTURISTIC AND SOLIDIFIED HER WIN AND SHOWED THAT SHE CAN SERVE)

4. The Weeknd - Blinding Lights (really made me love the song so much more)

5. BTS - Dynamite (I like these boys but the fanbase is so much it stresses me out).

6. JP Saxe & Julia Michaels - If The World Was Ending (so cute, love Julia)

7. Dababy - Peep Hole, Blind, & Rockstar 

8. Maluma - Hawái (loved the drive in aspect)

9. Keke Palmer - Snack (wish she had more time)

10. Black Eyed Peas w/ Nicky Jam & Tyga - Vida Loca/I Gotta Feeling (no one can take Fergie’s place)

11. CNCO - Beso

To end this, I’m just gonna leave this picture here. :)

[kevinskorner]

Katy Delivers!: Smile Review

First off, I just want to say CONGRATULATIONS to Katy and Orlando for having their daughter, DAISY DOVE BLOOM! I absolutely ADORE that name and I was hoping that they would pick the name Daisy! Katy has been working non. stop. ever since “Daisies” came out. Doing promo after promo, either American Idol or just interviews, she has worked her ass off to promote this album and doing it all PREGNANT. Power. Mom. Moves. After “witnessing” (lol I had to) the Witness era and seeing it underperform and seeing Katy battling depression it was really upsetting. Katy has been a force in the pop music world since she came out with “I Kissed A Girl” and when Witness came along and it wasn’t performing like her past three records, she was disappointed which totally makes sense BUT, the success of her first three albums was very rare and unlike any other pop star. I mean, a number one debut single, 5 number one songs from her second album, the most for any artist, (its really 6 because there was a rerelease but anyway) 2 number one’s from the third album I mean... That success doesn’t usually happen for an artist in their first few album so I totally understand why Katy would be upset by the underperformance of Witness because she was living on that high for so long. 

Now, we come to the present. Katy has come out with her fifth studio album Smile and I really enjoy it. I heard Katy say that she didn’t expect to make an album like this or that it wasn’t planned but I think it’s a perfect representation of what she’s gone through and who she’s become. Katy really did lose her “smile” after Witness. She went through a lot, but she has made it back onto the other side and has become a stronger person. She’s more dignified, humbled and simplified and you can see it. She’s still the Katy Perry we all know and love but she’s grown now. I will never get over the fact that she gave BIRTH to her FIRST CHILD and release her FIFTH album in the span of three days. 

“Never Really Over” has become a staple in Katy’s discography and I would call it a classic. It’s just so addicting and a GREAT pop song. When Katy announced the tracklist I didn’t know how I felt about it as the opening track but I think once I listened to the album straight through, it made sense. She says “two years and just like that my head still takes me back, thought it was done but I guess it never, really, over”. The production in “Cry About It Later” is so good. I can totally relate to the lyrics because it talks about when you wanna put your emotions to the side and not focus on the drama or sadness going on, just live in the fun moment you’re having. I honestly love it. THE CHORUS in “Teary Eyes” IS EVERYTHING. I’m loving this new venture Katy has taken musically with the more club/house/dance vibe. That is the type of music you want to listen to when you’ve lost your smile and are trying to find the goodness in life again. “Daisies” has really grown to be a great song. It can be played on and on and i’ll still scream every word. It has even more meaning with Daisy Dove Bloom being born now. I don’t know how it goes with the album aesthetically but I still love it. “Look at me now, look at me now, I’m in full bloom”. “Resilient” as a song is my least favorite but, it does have some of my favorite lyrics. I like the message of pushing through in the lyric “you’re gonna watch this flower grow right through the cracks”. Ugh, I'm just loving the the metaphors to her daughter and to Orlando because she is like the flower in her life becoming a Bloom and giving birth to a Daisy. Also, her vocals remind me of someone but I can’t put my finger on it... I was NOT expecting this SERVE in “Not The End Of The World”. I think this is actually a perfect pop song for 2020 honestly. It’s giving post apocalyptical/rise but more poppy and ooo i LOVE the sample! I have really grown to like “Smile”. It took me a little while to catch on but it’s so fun and catchy and just enjoyable. I also love the  Giorgio Moroder remix even more! I totally can see how “Champagne Problems” relates to Katy and Orlando’s relationship. After their break up they’ve come back together and realized how much they love each other and as long as they have that love, they don’t have any worries. I really love “Tucked”’s chorus and it makes me wanna just groove! It sort of gives that roller skating at a roller rink vibe. “Harleys In Hawaii” is a CLASSICCCC. It’s just GREAT. SMOOTH & SEXYYYYYY. I’m really happy that it ending up making it on the album because it’s too good not to be. “Only Love” was a surprise to me. I didn’t even know there was a song with this title on it. It’s so raw and brings out the emotions while also making your head bop. It helps you realize what’s important in life and to stop thinking about the negativity. In “What Makes A Woman”, I love the “doing what the fuck I want” lyric and production. This is such a great note to end the album on because it shows the power and strength Katy has and it shows her vulnerability as she goes into this new chapter of life as a mother.

I am so happy for Katy. I am so THRILLED that she got her SMILE back! This is a solid album filled with pop joy that helps you put on a smile. I recommend listening straight through. 

Standout Tracks: “Never Really Over”, “Teary Eyes”, “Cry About It Later”, “Daisies”, “Harleys in Hawaii”, “Only Love”. 

[kevinskorner]

Billie’s Back!: My Future Review

I honestly wasn’t expecting Billie to come out with new music anytime soon, but I am very okay with it. “My Future” is a surprising but fantastic blend of what Billie is and what kind of music she makes. Starting off with the soft isolated vocals for the first 1 minute and 45 seconds, to the beat change with that amazing electric guitar. That electric guitar is really divine... like it feels right out of a movie whenever it comes in. The lyrics show how Billie has grown from beating depression and has fallen in love with herself and now looks forward to a new day rather than dreading it. I love the progression when she sings “I’m not coming home”. Her vocals are gorgeous on this and they have grown so much. At the moment, I am having some trouble relating to the title lyric “I’m in love with my future” because I don’t know if I am? I love relating to Billie because we are the same age and if we were in school somewhere we would be in the same grade. I find myself relating to her a lot of the time in her previous music and I hope to continue that. I want to get to know myself too! The song is so, so, SO soft and comforting. The beginning isolated vocals feel like a soft blanket and the beat change feels like a stroll in the park. The song goes by very fast but that’s because it’s so good. Also, this music video is definitely my favorite out of all the animated quarantine video’s we’ve had. The animation is so beautiful and peaceful and feels right out of a Studio Ghibli film. I’m really happy with this song and whatever Billie has in store in the “future” (ba dum tss!) I’m ready for!

Rating: ⭑⭑⭑⭑( & ½) /⭑

[kevinskorner]

Welcome Back Chickies: Gaslighter Review

Growing up, I didn't listen to the (formally named) Dixie Chicks but, I would go visit family in South Carolina a lot and recall hearing their songs in many of Crackel Barrels’ my mother would bring us to. Around 2016 is when then started to come into my brain because thats when I started becoming heavily interested in the music industry, the history of it, award shows, etc. So of course, I did research about their conventional 2003 moment when lead singer, Natalie Maines, spoke about how she felt about President George W. Bush sending troops to Iraq. After that, I did research on their blacklisting and how aggressive the country community when after them just because she said that statement... I saw that they swept the 2007 Grammys and won Album, Record, and Song of the Year. Then of course in 2016, Beyoncè performed with the Chicks at the CMA awards and they performed “Daddy Lessons” and I loved every bit of it; and Taylor Swift had them featured on 2019′s Soon You’ll Get Better, playing the background instruments that add so much emotion to an already emotional song. As the years have gone on, I have been hoping for them to make a comeback because I just knew they had things to say, and boy was I right. Gaslighter is an extremely solid piece of work and great way for the Chicks to reintroduce themselves. 

When The Chicks announced the new era and released the title track and lead single “Gaslighter” on March 4, 2020, I immediately loved it. I loved how catchy it was and it feels like a real anthem. I got hooked on it and then got very excited for this new album to come on May 1, 2020. Well... as we all know a huge worldwide pandemic came towards the U.S. right after March 4th, 2020 so The Chicks postponed their album and looking back I think it was a smart move. Seeing producing God and fellow New Jerseyan, Jack Antonoff executive produce this album made a whole lot of sense. There will never ever ever be better storytelling in songs than country songs. Period. The country genre has the best storytellers in the whole world. Every song comes from an experience that the person went through, but they are always experiences that the listener can relate to. The ONLY critique I have about this album is the cover. I absolutely hate the album cover. I understand how its suppose to be the three of them as their younger selves but, the picture of the three of them with the gas masks on holding flower bouquets should’ve TOTALLY been the cover! Something special about this album is I like every song and there’s only one that isn’t my favorite. My least favorite is “Texas Man” and I don’t necessarily know exactly why that is. It’s just not sticking to me like the rest but that could possibly be because I don’t need a “Texas Man” right now. 

One of my favorite songs off this album is “Julianna Come Down”. Ever since the first time I heard it, I find myself constantly singing it in my head. This song also has a great story behind it that I heard in an interview The Chicks did with Zane Lowe on Apple Music. Natalie was saying how Jack went to work with Julia Michaels, pop star and modern songwriting goddess, and he brought back some songs they worked on to The Chicks. Natalie said that he played her a demo called “Julia, Calm Down” that was only one verse and a chorus, and she fell in love with it immediately. If I can recall correctly, right after hearing it, she recorded those parts and wrote new verses with Martie and Emily’s daughters’ names mentioned and all their nieces. Jack called Julia and said The Chicks love the song and want it for their new album and she said something like “Yeah, they can have the verse but I think I’m gonna keep the chorus!” and Natalie was having known of that and got on the phone and told Julia to come to their studio and hear what the Chicks recorded. Eventually Julia liked what they did and agreed to giving them the whole song. I just really loved that story because Julia Michaels is my favorite songwriter of our generation and to see that she is so kind that she would give such a personal song to The Chicks was really nice. 

Standout Tracks: “Gaslighter”, “Julianna Calm Down”, “Everybody Loves You”, “Tights on My Boat”, “March March”, and “My Best Friend’s Wedding”.

Rating: ★★★★(&½)☆

[kevinskorner]

A Little Late Series: It Was Good Until It Wasn’t by Kehlani

Kehlani is one of my favorite artists of all time. Ever since I found her music in one of my favorite youtubers’ video I was watching in 2014, I have been completely obsessed. Immediately after hearing her first mixtape Cloud 19, I turned so many people I know onto her and we’ve been together ever since then haha. I can’t believe all the growth and achievements she has received since then but it also feels like she’s just beginning. In the time between this album and her first studio album, she has been thee queen of features, and every single one has been great. I cannot believe that her second studio album is out but, here we are! 

“Toxic” was not my favorite on first listen but as time goes on, oh my god, its so addicting. I just want to scream on the top of my lungs “THAT DAMN DON JULIO MADE ME A FOOL FOR YOU”. Ty Dolla $ign’s background vocals suit the song so well and they compliment each other so well over this beat. “That dick always been problematic” is classic. Ohhhh “Can I”. I really dont have a lot to say about this one. Its incredible. “Sniper game no Bradley Cooper”?!?!?! Kehlani got better bars than a lot of rappers in the game. Its just such an absolute vibe that I want to feel forever. I don’t usually like Tory Lanez but his feature is actually nice here. I think hearing the other person’s side of the story perfectly blends the song together. On “Bad News”, I love the vocals and harmony on the “give all that shit up” parts. It can be a very beautiful song at some parts but sometimes the verses can be a little unmemorable. “Real Hot Girl Skit” is so fun, real poetry! Thank you Megan Thee Stallion <3 “Water” was probably my most anticipated song to hear because I just love water. Haha. Anyway, on my first listen I didn’t like it and was really disappointed, but! Once I played in a few more times, I fell in love. The chorus is so cool and having her go down an octave every time she says “water” was such a neat effect. I love how after the first chorus she starts speaking faster than in the first verse. her flow?!?! I did not expect rapper Kehlani to be all over this project but I live. I loveeee the chorus on “Change Your Life”. The beat bounce is so cool. Jhene and Kehlani coming together is so amazing. They compliment each other beautifully and as two modern-day R&B powerhouses, its so great seeing these two women come together. The “Belong to the Streets” skit is so upsetting because those are normal conversations that a lot of people have on the daily. People discuss women’s lives so harshly and grossly and find no problems with it. I don’t like this skit because its a sad reality but I guess I just have to accept it. “Everybody Business” is the PERFECT response to the prior skit. She’s owning who she is and talking about how she’s a grown woman who can make her own decisions! I love how the lyrics are really badass but the mood and vibe is really stripped down. It’s stunning to see how much she’s grown as a person. Since I’ve stanned for a long time, I know some things Kehlani has struggled with on the daily like what other people think of her. Seeing how she has tuned those outer voices out and started focusing on herself more is *chefs kiss*. I really didn’t expect to love "Hate the Club” as much as I have. The sax is so juicy and adds a jazzy twist to modern R&B. As someone who doesn’t participate in partying, drinking, smoking etc, I too hate the club! It’s just not my scene and I’m happy Kehlani feels the same way. I don’t ever want to have to “drink enough” as she says, in order to do something. I also absolutely am in love with the bridge. That switch! “Serial Lover” seems like a standout to a lot of people since it was produced by longtime Drake collaborator, Boi-1da. I love when she says “I think I should be single, for awhile” because after that comma she goes down an octave and sounds so sick. My favorite lyric is “I got girls I wanna give my last name”. It’s not my favorite song but its really smoothhh.  “F&MU” is such a clever song. Truly, that line “fuck and make up like its mabeliene” is so clever! How has nobody thought of that before? The only thing that really stands out to me on this song is the chorus. It’s still one of my faves, I just wish it was longer.  The squeaky bed in “Can You Blame Me” is everything. I don’t know how I feel about the Lucky Dayes’ feature though… he adds something but nothing special. "Grieving” was the MOST SURPRISING song on the whole album! I was so shook when the chorus came in omg. How come I haven’t seen more people talk about it?! Even the blending of when James says “Grieving” with Kehlani is heavenly. The transition on “Open (Passionate)” is soooo gorgeous. I like the verses better than the chorus on this one, which is surprising for me. I like the connection between being very open but its only because your so passionate about the love your in. I feel like I can very much understand and relate to that! Regarding, “Lexii’s Outro”, I knew she was going to do something for Lexii on this album ever since I found out about her passing. When You Should Be Here came out, Jealous was one of my favorite songs on the project and I loved Lexii’s verse. I’m happy Kehlani ended her second studio album this way by showing the world what this girl had. 

All honesty, on my first listen I don’t think I paid that much attention to the album and lyrics and it felt more like background noise. As time has gone on, I completely have appreciated this album and love how my girl Kehlani is progressing as an artist. This is definitely her most mature project to date and I love that for her. It’s not my favorite project from her and thats okay. It’s not bad at all. I will always like literally whatever Kehlani does. She can do no wrong in my book. Even if sometimes it feels like background noise than anything else, its still better than half the other projects ive listened to.

Standout track: “Toxic”, “Can I” feat. Tory Lanez, “Everybody Business”, “Hate the Club” feat. Masego, & “Grieving” feat. James Blake.

Rating: ★★★☆☆

[kevinskorner]

A Little Late Series: Wildcard by Miranda Lambert

I am SO excited to start this new series on here called the “A Little Late” series. The “A Little Late” series is a new chain of reviews on this blog that is dedicated to the albums, songs and projects I have never listened to before, missed on my time off, a new artist/genre i’m curious about, or just something I never talked about that I want to now. Today for our first entry, we are going to talk about Miranda Lambert’s 8th and most recent studio album, Wildcard. 

In “White Trash”, I love the “I’m finally on the up and up” part and the full on southern twang in Miranda’s voice throughout the whole song. When I first hear “Mess with My Head”, it was immediately one of my favorites. I love how low and soft spoken her voice is in the verses but the chorus is so strong. It should’ve been the lead single! I think "It All Comes Out in the Wash” is a good single choice, just not for the first single. Of course, its really fun and a good time but it doesn’t hit hard like I think a lead single should. I do love the chorus a lot, it’s really enjoyable. I liked how “Settling Down” was where Miranda mentioned the album title but, I didn’t like this one that much but, I do love the pre-chorus. As “Holy Water” progressed, I liked it more towards the end but it’s not my favorite and doesn’t stand out to me. “Way Too Pretty for Prison” is so so so fun. I love hearing two of my favorite country singers come together and make a song that makes you laugh but also sing a long. Seeing two of the most female powerful voices in country music come together is so badass and we need songs like this to be recognized. I just love these two. “Locomotive” is definitely not my speed but hearing her singing with all her gut and growling is really neat. “Bluebird” is such a dramatic change from the previous song but still has the same message of growth. It’s so great. I think it’s doing well on charts and radio right now because people love hearing Miranda’s lighter side and her laidback voice is so pleasing to the ear. It’s very mellow but, in a good way. I can see myself in ten years finding this song on an old playlist, and I will still love it as much as I do now. “How Dare You Love” is a really sweet love song. I’m obsessed with the different key changes Miranda does whenever she sings the chorus. Also, the last few lines at the end that change up the song a bit are my favorite in the whole song. Miranda really surprised me with all the slow jam and R&B influenced songs in this album. “Fire Escape” is divineee. This song brings warmth and is very endearing because it is reminiscent of her new life in New York City with her new man. Hearing her in love again is delightful since her last record was about the complete opposite. “Pretty Bitchin’” is a song title I would absolutely expect to see on a Miranda Lambert album. I liked how it started off and how she added a new phrase after the word “pretty” for the first verse. As the song went on I did find myself growing tired of it and it became a little too repetitive for me."Tequila Does” is without a doubt my favorite song on this album at the moment. I am truly obsessed with the build up around the chorus and the latin influenced lyrics. It makes me feel like I’m in a 70s country bar and slow dancing with someone. I want to direct this music video haha. The lyrics in “Track Record” seem to be very personal to Miranda but they are so universal. They are saying how “she can’t help it, she’s in love with love” and a lot of people can relate to that. At the end of the day, all humans want is to feel love. She’s got a “Track Record” of relationships because she loves being loved. Even though in “Dark Bars” she says she’s not in pain, I felt like she is letting go of the pain as the song goes on. This song feels like you are right next to her, sitting at the bar just discussing life. I love how progressively her voice became more prominent on the song. When Miranda says, “I know a thing or two about broke hearts” it’s a full circle moment in this whole album because she has grown and moved on from a painful time in her life with a public divorce, and found love again. I like to see this as the rebirth of Miranda. 

This album was such a great listen because I loved hearing about Miranda’s new life and how she is over the past and looking into the future head on excitingly. I heard in an interview by Miranda that she said she hung tapestries all over while recording this album to help cover up the past. She thought that everything behind them was all from the past and she wants to move forward with a new beginning and that’s definitely what I think of when I think of this album I think of her moving into the future getting rid of her past, which is something I am here for!

Standout tracks: Mess with My Head, Way Too Pretty for Prison (with Maren Morris), Bluebird, Fire Escape and Tequila Does.

Rating: ★★★★☆

[kevinskorner]

FINALLY FULFILLING THIS DREAM: Hamilton on Disney+ Review

finally. i have FINALLY seen the greatness that is Hamilton. ever since i heard of the musical five years ago, i have been so compelled by it and so in love with the environment it created. i have been wanting to see it for so long. i’ve listened to the soundtrack multiple times, watched interviews and clips. and even tried getting tickets multiple times but never had any luck. so today was an important day for me to finally fulfill this five year long dream. and it was everything i had ever hoped and wanted it to be. i found myself enamored the whole time and i fell in love with the soundtrack even more. In the beginning when it said it was filmed in June 2016, i felt the past four years of life flash in front of my eyes. Hamilton in general is very nostalgic for me because when i became interested in it, i was in 8th grade, it was 2016 and life was much different. sometimes i find myself wanting to go back to those times and other times i don’t.... i just enjoy the nostalgia and who i was at that time but i also don’t like who i became towards the end of the year. i think i wanted to be part of this Hamilton loving environment because it felt so full of love in such a turmoiled year. i’m mentioning this because Lin was a very important figure for me that year. i started seeing him everywhere, followed him on twitter, obviously listened to the Hamilton soundtrack. Moana, watched when he hosted SNL, i really enjoyed him because he is just so admirable. he became an inspiration for me in many ways and i remember putting his tweet notifications on and every morning in my freshman year i would see his “good morning” tweets and they meant a lot to me. i have vivid memories of being in my first period U.S. history class and checki my phone and seeing many tweets from Lin just putting positivity out in the universe when i needed it desperately. i hope to have just a FRACTION of the mind and creativity and greatness he has. thank you Lin, i know you get that a lot but really. you are a modern great and it’s amazing living in the same generation as you. i’m really so grateful to have this and to have it remind me of who i was back then, and who i am hopefully becoming.

[kevinskorner]

Where I’ve Been:

Hello!

It has been a little while since I have posted on here and I just wanted to update you all (or anyone who cares) about what’s been going on! Firstly, the main reason why I haven’t posted was because I got a new computer! In the end of April, I traded in my 2015 MacBook Pro for a new 2020 MacBook Air. The trading process took more than a month. So I went a full month AND THEN-SOME without a computer and it was dreadful but, I got a new one! So, I am very excited to start back again posting with this new laptop. As everybody is aware, Covid-19 has happened and of course, I’ve been in quarantine. I hope whoever’s reading this is staying safe and healthy! I have been in quarantine since mid March, and ironically, it is also my senior year of high school. So since we last talked, I have been finishing my high school career online. I graduated two weeks ago, and even though it wasn’t a full ceremony or anything like that, it was still nice. This whole year has felt like being in a twister, circling again and again. Also, the Black Lives Matter movement has started up because of the tragic killing of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless other innocent lives. We have to stand up for what we believe in and seeing my generation do actual work and show progress for this movement is really inspiring. I hope everyone is doing their part in this movement, either by donating, signing petitions, callings legislators, or even doing posts on social media (other than a quick instagram story). There has been a bunch of new music that has come out in the time I was away and I’m devastated that I couldn’t do a Rain On Me review, Chromatica review, and so much more. I think I am going to post reviews on that new music that I missed no matter what. I want to share my thoughts on as much as I can. I also want to branch this account out and post more personal sentiments or anything really I am in the mood to post, haha. Well, if anyone read this, thank you and I hope you’re okay. :)

Wear a mask. Vote. and Black Lives Matter.