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[reviewsbyliam]

“THE PRELUDE: ACT OF RECLAMATION” A LIVE SHOW BY OSÉ [SOLD OUT]

Headline Show Review - 09/12/2023

[Pictured below; Osé and band]

[Photographer: @bygideooon_ on Instagram]

————————————————————————————-

*DISCLAIMER* All photos and videos from this event are over on @reviewsbyliam on Instagram. Please head there after reading this article to witness the greatness that we did. Thank you and enjoy reading!

————————————————————————————-

I arrived in London on the 29th of November, suitcase in hand, 5 hour coach journey behind me and a now 45 minute Uber journey to Deptford. My boyfriend met me at the coach station, we spent the first evening just settling into the area, getting some food and having a few beverages (as you do), and then some well earned sleep after both travelling from separate parts of the UK.

Experiencing a day of being a tourist in London the next day was bewildering - I wanna live there now.. I'm definitely made for the big busy city life. We headed back to the hotel, and got ready to make our travels towards one of my long time internet friends first ever SOLD OUT DEBUT HEADLINE SHOW!!

The emotions were at an all time high, before we get into it though..

Here's a little backstory..

I've known Osé for 3/4 years now, first meeting on Twitter (now X) and forming a mutual connection through Ariana Grande and our overall love for music. I always knew that Osé loved to sing, I also knew that one day, he'd be on a stage somewhere giving it his all performing his music and not looking back - little did I know how real that thought would actually become.

Shortly after debuting this blog, Osé called me and told me the tear flowing news that was him booking his first ever headline show to debut his first new project. We screamed, laughed, I cried for him because I was so elated with pride, and then he asked me if I would join him in London, interview him as well as review his show, and help write the description for his event. I must've asked him several times if he was joking, following up with a loud !!YES!! and getting to planning..

Fast forward to the night of the show..

Entering the venue and the thought of not knowing what I was about to hear from Osé was anxiety inducing but extremely exciting nonetheless. I'd heard the music from his project prior to the show as he wanted me to be able to catch a feel of what was to come to help my own personal work, which was such a beautiful gesture. So I kind of knew the sounds of the night, but chose to not listen to them like they were the last songs on Earth so I could re-experience my first listen.

On stage before Osé was another uprising artist called Josh Pace, who was a very good musician to have before the main act as he drew the crowd in and the vocals were so raw. His bass tones were unreal.

After listening to Josh melt our ears, we mingled for a little while, grabbed a couple of drinks to calm the nerves, and then realised it was time..

I knew that when Osé took to the stage, it was going to become HIS world. We weren't here for us, we were here to witness a spectacle that can only be described as out of this universe.

Opening the show with an interlude describing who Osé is, some words being uplifting, some words describing Osé in a more vulnerable, judgmental light.. it was very honest and intriguing. The interlude interpreted that many people have things to say about Osé and his character, including himself, but nobody really knows the true him - hence the reclamation of his story.

Osé walks on stage, the room is flooded with screams, claps, hoots and hollers, he smiles and tries to take in the reception he has just received (which was extremely deserving) and starts to sing one of the most ICONIC songs of all time; Creep by Radiohead.

The raw power that exonerated from Osé’s vocal box was like watching a superhero find their power for the first time. The moment he opened his mouth, he was unstoppable, it was Osé’s time.

I just knew he was about to SMACK us in the jaw with this show after blowing us away with his rendition of Creep and my heart was racing, my knees were weak and I had a dry mouth. I was SO nervous for Osé, but one thing I noticed, Osé wasn’t nervous, because he was home.

Osé started singing his songs from his project, including one song that had a very personal meaning which Osé spoke to us about before he performed, allowing us to see that artists we listen to, admire and idolize are struggling with personal battles just like us. I wont be revealing the track names, because the project is still under review by Osé himself and this night was just about getting a feel for whats to come. But when the project is birthed, you'll see. The night was all about the people closest to Osé finding out why this project is in the works and how he is choosing to utilize it to expand his character and knowledge of the world, which in my eyes is a very safe choice to make as an upcoming artist because for you to do well, you have to make sure your work is cohesive and relatable, and that is what Osé's project embodies, truly.

The raw talent that exudes from Osé, whether its through speaking, writing, singing, anything - it is a talent to be acknowledged and afraid of. Osé's vocals were so strong, and the evidence of his ability to explore across genres is even stronger. We went from sad, to funk, to healing, to rocking out. Not to forget that the band which accompanied him on stage were well into their element also. The guy on the drums? I could've watched him go crazy for hours. And don't even get me started on the saxophone, we will be here for eternity.

Stage presence is a HUGE factor into an artists success, because nobody wants to see an artist just stand there on stage like a bowling pin and sing into a mic and then wave and walk off. Thank the Lord that wasn't the case for Osé. He walked onto that stage, announced himself, and just let his inhibitions go. When the crowd hyped him, it was like the funk spirit had taken over his soul and he just threw his hips like there was no tomorrow. He laughed, he jumped, he clapped, he cried but he also joked with the crowd and made it the most safest space I've ever had the pleasure of being in.

At the end of the night, Osé thanked everyone for attending his first sold out headline show, and had to halt a few tears (so did I, many times). I have never heard a room erupt into screams, whistles, chants, you name it, so loudly before. I was watching Osé on stage just taking in the love that he so righteously deserved, which made it a full circle moment for everyone involved. The gratitude displayed was immense and he truly and authentically cracked the egg of success and stepped into the rest of his life as a vocal powerhouse that night.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Raw vocals, warming stage presence, immaculate band and organisation. Venue was cozy and made the vibe so much more intimate than it already was. Location was easy to find.

OVERALL REVIEW OF THE NIGHT: OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!!!!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

If you're wondering whether to give Osé a chance when he next does a show, wonder no more because I'm here to tell you that it would be one of the biggest regrets of your life if you didn't attend a show of his or at least take a dive into his socials and hear the heaven that leaves his mouth when he sings. I have an upcoming interview to be released with Osé, and we discuss his early life, career, fears, and so SO much more. We dive into topics about the night too, and just have a good old catch up about how much Osé's life has changed since his sold out headline show. Keep an eye on my Instagram page for more details surrounding the release of that!

----------------------------------------------------------------

A message to Osé: Thank you for coming into my life and showing me that being creative is okay, it's okay to be vulnerable and show it in your work, it's okay to struggle and share that with people because we are all human and deserve peace. I will be forever thankful for the opportunities you graced upon me surrounding this event and I will forever be in debt to you. You are one of the most intelligent humans I've come across, and watching you blossom as an artist and a friend is a blessing that I will never let go. Never give up on who you dream to be, because the ability that you hold within yourself to make that happen is a lot more stronger than you'll ever know. I love you and I'm forever proud of you! L x

----------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for reading! Photos and Videos from

“THE PRELUDE: ACT OF RECLAMATION” LIVE SHOW BY OSÈ

will be posted to my Instagram @reviewsbyliam !

Head over there and check them out!

----------------------------------------------------------------

Written by Liam Wibberley

09/12/2023

LW

[reviewsbyliam]

“THE PRELUDE: ACT OF RECLAMATION” A LIVE SHOW BY OSÉ [SOLD OUT]

Headline Show Review - 09/12/2023

[Pictured below; Osé and band]

[Photographer: @bygideooon_ on Instagram]

————————————————————————————-

*DISCLAIMER* All photos and videos from this event are over on @reviewsbyliam on Instagram. Please head there after reading this article to witness the greatness that we did. Thank you and enjoy reading!

————————————————————————————-

I arrived in London on the 29th of November, suitcase in hand, 5 hour coach journey behind me and a now 45 minute Uber journey to Deptford. My boyfriend met me at the coach station, we spent the first evening just settling into the area, getting some food and having a few beverages (as you do), and then some well earned sleep after both travelling from separate parts of the UK.

Experiencing a day of being a tourist in London the next day was bewildering - I wanna live there now.. I'm definitely made for the big busy city life. We headed back to the hotel, and got ready to make our travels towards one of my long time internet friends first ever SOLD OUT DEBUT HEADLINE SHOW!!

The emotions were at an all time high, before we get into it though..

Here's a little backstory..

I've known Osé for 3/4 years now, first meeting on Twitter (now X) and forming a mutual connection through Ariana Grande and our overall love for music. I always knew that Osé loved to sing, I also knew that one day, he'd be on a stage somewhere giving it his all performing his music and not looking back - little did I know how real that thought would actually become.

Shortly after debuting this blog, Osé called me and told me the tear flowing news that was him booking his first ever headline show to debut his first new project. We screamed, laughed, I cried for him because I was so elated with pride, and then he asked me if I would join him in London, interview him as well as review his show, and help write the description for his event. I must've asked him several times if he was joking, following up with a loud !!YES!! and getting to planning..

Fast forward to the night of the show..

Entering the venue and the thought of not knowing what I was about to hear from Osé was anxiety inducing but extremely exciting nonetheless. I'd heard the music from his project prior to the show as he wanted me to be able to catch a feel of what was to come to help my own personal work, which was such a beautiful gesture. So I kind of knew the sounds of the night, but chose to not listen to them like they were the last songs on Earth so I could re-experience my first listen.

On stage before Osé was another uprising artist called Josh Pace, who was a very good musician to have before the main act as he drew the crowd in and the vocals were so raw. His bass tones were unreal.

After listening to Josh melt our ears, we mingled for a little while, grabbed a couple of drinks to calm the nerves, and then realised it was time..

I knew that when Osé took to the stage, it was going to become HIS world. We weren't here for us, we were here to witness a spectacle that can only be described as out of this universe.

Opening the show with an interlude describing who Osé is, some words being uplifting, some words describing Osé in a more vulnerable, judgmental light.. it was very honest and intriguing. The interlude interpreted that many people have things to say about Osé and his character, including himself, but nobody really knows the true him - hence the reclamation of his story.

Osé walks on stage, the room is flooded with screams, claps, hoots and hollers, he smiles and tries to take in the reception he has just received (which was extremely deserving) and starts to sing one of the most ICONIC songs of all time; Creep by Radiohead.

The raw power that exonerated from Osé’s vocal box was like watching a superhero find their power for the first time. The moment he opened his mouth, he was unstoppable, it was Osé’s time.

I just knew he was about to SMACK us in the jaw with this show after blowing us away with his rendition of Creep and my heart was racing, my knees were weak and I had a dry mouth. I was SO nervous for Osé, but one thing I noticed, Osé wasn’t nervous, because he was home.

Osé started singing his songs from his project, including one song that had a very personal meaning which Osé spoke to us about before he performed, allowing us to see that artists we listen to, admire and idolize are struggling with personal battles just like us. I wont be revealing the track names, because the project is still under review by Osé himself and this night was just about getting a feel for whats to come. But when the project is birthed, you'll see. The night was all about the people closest to Osé finding out why this project is in the works and how he is choosing to utilize it to expand his character and knowledge of the world, which in my eyes is a very safe choice to make as an upcoming artist because for you to do well, you have to make sure your work is cohesive and relatable, and that is what Osé's project embodies, truly.

The raw talent that exudes from Osé, whether its through speaking, writing, singing, anything - it is a talent to be acknowledged and afraid of. Osé's vocals were so strong, and the evidence of his ability to explore across genres is even stronger. We went from sad, to funk, to healing, to rocking out. Not to forget that the band which accompanied him on stage were well into their element also. The guy on the drums? I could've watched him go crazy for hours. And don't even get me started on the saxophone, we will be here for eternity.

Stage presence is a HUGE factor into an artists success, because nobody wants to see an artist just stand there on stage like a bowling pin and sing into a mic and then wave and walk off. Thank the Lord that wasn't the case for Osé. He walked onto that stage, announced himself, and just let his inhibitions go. When the crowd hyped him, it was like the funk spirit had taken over his soul and he just threw his hips like there was no tomorrow. He laughed, he jumped, he clapped, he cried but he also joked with the crowd and made it the most safest space I've ever had the pleasure of being in.

At the end of the night, Osé thanked everyone for attending his first sold out headline show, and had to halt a few tears (so did I, many times). I have never heard a room erupt into screams, whistles, chants, you name it, so loudly before. I was watching Osé on stage just taking in the love that he so righteously deserved, which made it a full circle moment for everyone involved. The gratitude displayed was immense and he truly and authentically cracked the egg of success and stepped into the rest of his life as a vocal powerhouse that night.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Raw vocals, warming stage presence, immaculate band and organisation. Venue was cozy and made the vibe so much more intimate than it already was. Location was easy to find.

OVERALL REVIEW OF THE NIGHT: OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!!!!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

If you're wondering whether to give Osé a chance when he next does a show, wonder no more because I'm here to tell you that it would be one of the biggest regrets of your life if you didn't attend a show of his or at least take a dive into his socials and hear the heaven that leaves his mouth when he sings. I have an upcoming interview to be released with Osé, and we discuss his early life, career, fears, and so SO much more. We dive into topics about the night too, and just have a good old catch up about how much Osé's life has changed since his sold out headline show. Keep an eye on my Instagram page for more details surrounding the release of that!

----------------------------------------------------------------

A message to Osé: Thank you for coming into my life and showing me that being creative is okay, it's okay to be vulnerable and show it in your work, it's okay to struggle and share that with people because we are all human and deserve peace. I will be forever thankful for the opportunities you graced upon me surrounding this event and I will forever be in debt to you. You are one of the most intelligent humans I've come across, and watching you blossom as an artist and a friend is a blessing that I will never let go. Never give up on who you dream to be, because the ability that you hold within yourself to make that happen is a lot more stronger than you'll ever know. I love you and I'm forever proud of you! L x

----------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for reading! Photos and Videos from

“THE PRELUDE: ACT OF RECLAMATION” LIVE SHOW BY OSÈ

will be posted to my Instagram @reviewsbyliam !

Head over there and check them out!

----------------------------------------------------------------

Written by Liam Wibberley

09/12/2023

LW

[reviewsbyliam]

Robbie Z

INTERVIEW #01

18.09.2023

Written by LW

Photos via @iamrobbiez (IG)

--------------------------------------------------------

Waking up and realizing the life you're living isn't exactly what you desire anymore and deciding to pursue your passion, move to a city in another country and devote yourself to trying to become somebody in the world can be an extremely scary thought for many, but not for this one person.

Today, the first guest on my blog that has been kind enough to sit and speak with me about the stories behind not only himself but also his music and the pain and happiness that has accompanied him along the way is aspiring independent artist, Robbie Z.

L: Hey, Robbie! Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about yourself and your career today, I really appreciate it! You are the first artist to be interviewed on my blog, so it is an absolute pleasure of mine to accommodate your story today!

R: Hi Liam, so nice to meet you! Congratulations on starting your blog! This is really cool, good luck with it! And thank you for having me as your first guest, it's an honour!

L: Thank you so much, Robbie! It's kind of crazy and I cant thank you enough for the opportunity to do this together, now let's get into it!

--------------------------------------------------------

L: You started your professional career in 2018, it's now 2023, whats the journey been like for you?

R: Ahh, it's been so exciting! Music is what I want to do long term. It's my passion, so growing up doing that and learning from my mistakes has been amazing. It's an amazing thing that I started so young to be honest. I always knew I wanted to do this; I started recording covers in 2014, when I was 11/12 and started writing my own music when I was 15 in 2017! So, when I was around 14, I thought "huh.. I wanna do that? Then I might as well start now if I wanna get good at it young." Because when I started I was really bad haha… but it also helped me get thick skin in terms of bullying etc. it's been amazing, but it's truly only the beginning!

------------------------------------------------------

L: I've seen that you have inspiration from Iggy Azalea, who else in the music industry compels you to want to do more?

R: I've always been a fanboy.. Some incredible women besides Iggy who "raised me" as an artist are definitely; Selena Gomez and Miley Cyrus. More recently, I've been really loving Madison Beer, Lil Nas X, Olivia Rodrigo, Charli XCX, Taylor Swift.. I get really inspired by these artists to work hard and achieve all my goals. It really drives me forward.

-----------------------------------------------------

L: The vibe of The Butterfly Trap is very fresh, a total feeling myself energy, but it also includes emotional parts that relate to the listeners life - what kind of vibe can we expect from the new project?

R: Ahhh, thank you! Writing the first EP, I was kind of in a tough spot mentally.. I wrote it from the ages of 18 to 19 and I was going through a lot of stuff that I couldn't understand in my life which made me very confused, sad, angry… This new project is totally different.

First of all, it's elevated in terms of quality in the songwriting, recording etc. Secondly, in "The Butterfly Trap", I was really vague while talking about the struggles.. Masking them in a lot of metaphors. I was afraid to speak of these topics in songs as I was still going through what I was going through while writing. This new project "Dear Diary," is more so me reflecting on situations whilst also having fun, a less anxious, more out going alter-ego of mine! But, as fun as it is, it also has some deep messages that really cut deep for me and it just even feels a little uncomfortable when someone listens to some of these new songs as they're so personal to me. Hence the name, "Dear Diary". It's supposed to be inspirational and honest, but it also talks about lots of different topics such as following your dreams, getting your dreams taken away from you, one sided love, letting yourself live freely.. It's basically 6 different diary entrees of mine put into songs.

-----------------------------------------------------

L: I've noticed you have a lot of unique sounds. Do you enjoy being multi genre and having the ability to switch flows whilst also being able to use sounds that seperate you from the rest?

R: Honestly? I love mixing genres. I love rap verses with pop hooks, rock hooks, punk, ballads, anything. But, I've been spending time trying to find my sound and I think I've finally found one that is just perfectly me, right now. This new single '5 Dollars & a Dream' is exactly what I would want to be remembered with regarding the genre, flow, lyrics etc. I don't want to give myself any labels as a "pop artist" or a "rock artist" etc. I just consider myself a rapper/singer who likes to change. But Pop Rap is what I would describe it as if I have to!

-----------------------------------------------------

L: 5 dollars + a dream (a song that is beautiful by the way and extremely reminiscent of Iggy's earlier work which I LOVE entirely) , whats the story behind this track and what was the process like behind making it?

R: Oh my god, thank you so so much!! This song means the most to me so I really appreciate the nice words. The story behind the track… I think it's pretty straight forward to be honest, which is why I'm a little afraid of people hearing it. It's about knowing what you want to do, having started that and just following your dreams (as lame as it sounds). The song talks about some parts of my story, which I've never been vulnerable about in songs before. And not letting myself give up. Making the song was an absolute blast. One night a few years ago I was in my bed, in my home town in Bulgaria, and I thought of the phrase "I got five dollars and a dream…" with the melody and I wrote it down, then last year as I was packing up to move to London, I wrote the first verse which goes like "I took all of my belongings and I put them in a suitcase…" Initially I wanted it to be a song I write for my first album one day, but it just felt right so I brought it to my producer "SojBoj" , we made the instrumental and a demo and then I wrote the second verse and recorded it! It was really fun!

------------------------------------------------------

L: There is a lot that goes into being an independent artist, how has that been for you so far? Have you had any label offers yet?

R: Being indie or signed each have their own ups and downs / good and bad sides, it just really depends on what an artist wants.. For me? I've been fortunate enough to grow, learn and find myself as an independent artist. I couldn't imagine starting out with a record deal from the beginning. But now I feel I'm ready to get signed and get this party started. Being indie obviously gives me the opportunity to have full creative control which I'm not willing to sacrifice. Whilst it's not for everyone, for me, when the right deal comes, it'll definitely be something I do, because the connections and resources a label has are so worth it for a young artist like me.

-------------------------------------------------------

L: Who have been your main musical inspirations behind this new project thats coming later this year?

R: Ahh! Well, whilst there hasn't been a specific one, I'd say, of course I'm always super influenced by Iggy Azalea; especially her first album 'The New Classic'. '5 Dollars & a Dream' is actually kind of inspired by her song 'Work'. But I'm also now inspired by a lot of punk rock music, more contemporary pop-rocky songs, A lot of just everyday things that I romanticise and turn into songs. Sonically, I make what I want to hear, putting my own input on the kind of music I like. Like a mixture of everything I like, quite literally.

---------------------------------------------------

L: You're doing a show at the Metre Squared In London after the single drops, are you excited to perform and what should people expect to see?

R: I love performing! Back in Bulgaria, I had some performing experience, but when Covid hit, it was hard to get performances.. I did a car-concert, it was super fun! I was in a big truck performing to around 100 cars! I was an opening act for a drive-in movie theatre. When I moved to London though, that is when it really started for me with the performances. I've done some shows the past year that amazed me with the amount of people who came to have fun and listen to music, but also the people who actually know my songs and connect with it, it's my favourite thing in the world. The show is coming up on the 14th of October in Metre Squared in London, and tickets for that show are on sale now! I'm super excited. It'll be the first time I perform my EP, prior to it's release!

-------------------------------------------------

L: With your new music coming very rapidly, and a show coming up around the corner, are you looking forward to what the future holds for you and where your art will take you?

R: I am a very goal orientated person, I've got lots of big and smaller goals that I will accomplish soon. I don't like sharing those before they come true, but I have to say; I've got something that I'm working really hard for that I really hope to get to do within the next year. Plus also, always lots of new music! I've got stuff planned for even after the EP, and my releases will become more often too!

------------------------------------------------------

L: For our last question, Robbie, I want to ask you - who in the music industry, whether it be a singer, rapper, producer, writer, absolutely anyone, who would you love to work with the most and why?

R: There's a bunch of people I admire and would find it an honour to work with, but off the top of my head, I'd say a producer that I would really want to work with one day is Jack Antonoff! He's incredible, it seems like to be so much fun working with him. Dan Nigro is another one, he created Olivia Rodrigo's first two albums with her, he's amazing! Artist-wise, Iggy Azalea. She inspired me to start all of this craziness, she helped me find my path when I was really young and I just admire her for a hundred other reasons, it would be CRAZY. I think maybe a song of mine with Ice Spice or Charli XCX would be so fun too! Me and Charli XCX have to make a song about cars together one day!

-------------------------------------------------------

L: Well, Robbie, it has been absolutely beautiful and a true pleasure speaking with you and getting to hear your thoughts about your music and everything to do with your grind! I would also like to thank you for letting me hear your new single prior to release! I am excited for whats to come from your career given the product that we already have from you and the world should prepare themselves for the undeniable force that is yourself!

R: Thank you so much for having me, Liam. It means so so much to me, the questions were great, they made me think deeper and I really enjoyed it!

L: I'm glad to hear that, Robbie! Once again, thank you SO much for being my first guest on my blog and hopefully this wont be the last time we speak! I look forward to hearing your new EP!

---------------------------------------------------

To anyone reading; Robbie Z's new single '5 Dollars & a Dream' from his new EP 'Dear Diary,' comes out this Friday, September 22nd!

It'd mean the world to me, as his interviewer and to him as an indie artist if you gave it a listen!

You can also buy tickets to his upcoming show on October 14th at Metre Squared in London in his INSTA BIO (@iamrobbiez)!

----------------------------------------------------

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I’ll be forever grateful!

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[reviewsbyliam]

The Person Behind The Page..

Hi, my name is Liam, I’m 25, I’m a Virgo and I have a deep interest in music.

I’ve loved music (r&b, pop, dance, underground, funk, soul, rap, rock, alternative) since I can remember and without music, my world would be very bleak. I never miss a single, an album, a rising artist, you name it. My passion has always been music, I’ve been singing since I can remember and forever admiring the many beings and the symphony’s that occupy their bodies, alongside sitting with my family and irritating them with my hours long speeches about why certain music is so good and the artists behind it are exceptional, so with careful consideration, I’ve decided to release my thoughts into the world regarding the biggest and smallest artists in music, hoping that one day it’ll get me somewhere. My content will consist of music reviews, pop culture news, and hopefully one day, interviews. Thank you for the support already and let’s see what happens!

I will be posting to Instagram, X and Tumblr. You can find the appropriate handles in my bio!

Please share any of my articles with your friends and family, cats, dogs, anything. I just want to be someone in the world, enjoying doing what I love.

Liam x

[reviewsbyliam]

New Music Friday Favs!

SEPTEMBER IS HERE!

01/09/23

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What better way to kick off my birthday month than with some new music by a handful of incredibly talented artists?!

From an addictive "f your ex" club anthem by Baby Tate, a sprinkle of some summertime sadness with Jorja Smith, followed by getting down and dirty with Troye Sivan, PinkPantheress and Hyunjin from Stray Kids, you're sure to start September the right way..

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Baby Tate is first up with JERSEY!

Baby Tate knows one thing, and that's how to make a hit.

Helping round off the Summer of '23 with this classic club anthem was a choice made very well by Tate. Tate shows her diversity strongly in this song choosing a unique but modern dance beat (one that is different to her previous releases) layered with butter-melt vocals joined by a flow so well placed that you go back for more. Whilst the song is accompanied by lyrics that set the heartbreak tone, you can't help but two step and spill your w(h)ine a little (a lot). I hope Tate continues to explore more when it comes to different genres of music and really taps into her creative mind and lets it flood out of her pores, because when she does (and has done), she produces beautiful music. A thorough, electrifying bop that will go #1 in my house, for sure. 10/10.

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Jorja Smith has stepped on the scene carrying a somber vibe with her new single Falling or flying..

The new track from her upcoming album is also the title for the project; Falling or flying.

Focusing on the turbulence of love and its emotions, Jorja sings about how being in love is not all roses and smiles. There's a lot of silent issues that come with love and tend to require a lot of work from both people to help solidify a working relationship, but sometimes, that doesn't happen. Jorja always has such a captivating way of telling a story when it comes to her music and is another artist that is very acquired to her sound and experimenting in different genres. I do wish that the intro wasn't as long but maybe the album itself is transitional and my opinion will change. A solid track either way that makes me even more eager for her album. 9/10.

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Troye Sivan delivered the Rush, and now Troye, PinkPantheress and Hyunjin of Stray Kids are amplifying it..

Releasing Rush as a solo song, Troye decided to come back, this time, accompanied by two artists that are securing their iconic status in the world whilst also contributing to ending summer with a sweaty, euphoric dance anthem that excites the blood in my veins..

PinkPantheress and Hyunjin are two respectfully talented artists that have broken doors down for themselves and made sure to leave a mark on every room they enter, physically or musically. Troye, however, is already a big name in music with his earlier hit albums Bloom and Blue Neighbourhood making sure he achieved that.

Rush is already an eccentric, house filled beat that makes you want to dance around your room or in a club with a stranger and just live in the moment, but the remix helps excel that feeling. Whilst there's no beat changes, the verse from PinkPantheress and the closing chorus from Hyunjin partnered with brain-scratching adlibs from all 3 really helps make the song one to remember for when you need a dance. 10/10.

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Whilst this is only 3 out of many of my favorites from this weeks release, there will be more reviews to come as I listen over the weekend. Until then, check out the songs above on the respective platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube.

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Nicki Minaj - Last Time I Saw You

(Single Review)

01/09/23

Friendly Reminder: make sure to listen to the song whilst reading!

Nicki Minaj for Last Time I Saw You

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Kicking off September with the supposed lead single from her highly anticipated 5th album 'Pink Friday 2' is none other than Nicki Minaj.

Last Time I Saw You is the 3rd single to be released from her upcoming album, with 1 & 2 being the #1 HIT Super Freaky Girl and Red Ruby Da Sleeze which introduced her new alter ego, Red Ruby Da Sleeze.

Earlier today, Nicki spoke with Zane Lowe on the New Music Daily series which is platformed by Apple Music Radio, touching on the subjects behind the song.

She indicated that it's partly about her late Father, Robert Maraj, who was killed in a hit-and-run in February of 2021, also adding; "The vibe of it was really talking about a loss, a real loss you know. But to not make the song feel only directed at one kind of loss. When I wrote the singing verse, I tried to expand it and think even about relationships. And then by the time I got to the rap, it was like I had included all relationships that I had lost before, because I mentioned even best friends and stuff like that."

Never forgetting to also pay homage to her own personal growth, Nicki stated; "I just wanted the next song that I put out to represent my growth, but not just as an artist, but as a human being. I’ve experienced so many things that I hadn’t experienced five years ago, and that’s just the truth."

Talking earlier today to Zane Lowe about the current rap climate, Nicki said: "I felt that if I don’t take the risk, that I’m just as bad as everyone else who I think should make a change. And not only artists, but people behind the scenes. Because the truth of the matter is people are experiencing real life every day. Believe it or not, people are going through real shit every day. So just because they don’t have that music out to express it, it doesn’t mean they’re not experiencing it."

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Taking risks from the music she has previously put out was the best choice for Nicki, as it proves that no matter how long she has been in the game for; she'll always find a way to create a new wave and ride it like no other whilst managing to stay relatable with her sound and writing.

Diversity in your lyricism and flow alongside experimenting with beats is something that many rappers lack so they choose to stick to their comfort zones, but for Nicki? That's not her story. Each album she has put out for public consumption has been consistently different. From flows, beats, lyrics, alter egos, stories - nothing is the same. Nicki being 15 years into her career and still finding ways to elevate her musical skill is truly inspirational.

After becoming a mother and surviving a very consistent hate train from the general public in 2018 that lasted for a couple years, it's more obvious now than ever that Nicki is ready to show the world what shes made of once again and gently but savagely remind people that whilst they might be able to play with others, they can't play with her. At all.

I'm personally extremely excited for her new album and eager to hear what sounds she has been experimenting with in her studio, alongside everything else that comes. Being a fan since Pink Friday was first released in 2010, it always is anxiety inducing when you don't exactly know where your favorite artists creative mind is directing itself, but then I also find that's what makes it so exciting about being a fan of that person, because when their past work is so consistent and still streamed to this day, you know you won't be let down no matter what, especially when its a mastermind like Nicki Minaj.

PINK FRIDAY 2 OUT NOVEMBER 17TH 2023

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CONCLUSION: A very emotionally layered track from Nicki that is upbeat and catchy whilst managing to stay unique, securing it's destiny for greatness. I (like many others) found myself able to relate on a personal level with past and current situations and even found myself getting a bit emotional at one point once I understood her own personal connections with the song. A very cohesive, well produced track with outstanding vocals and flow from Nicki.

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Last Time I Saw You is a certified 10/10 by Reviews By Liam

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Thank you for checking out my review of Nicki Minaj's new single Last Time I Saw You!

If you would like to listen to Last Time I Saw You, it is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music, or purchase from iTunes.

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Selena Gomez - Single Soon

(Single Review)

29/08/2023

Friendly Reminder: make sure to listen to the song whilst reading!

Selena Gomez for Single Soon

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The last time we were graced with the angelic, unique voice that lives inside Selena Gomez was with her single 'My Mind & Me' which joint released with her docu-movie for Apple TV - Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me on the 2nd of November 2022, which focused on her battle with lupus, mental health, and having her every move analysed by the world.

Her new single 'Single Soon' was once destined to join the track-list of her 2020 album Rare, but the song was discarded until Selena decided to bring it back to life and rework it and help her fans close out the Summer season with a fun, light-hearted, anthem whilst her army of fans eagerly wait for her next album to be finished.

Single Soon focuses on the excitement that you can find within being single, such as spending time with your friends, wearing the clothes / shoes you wouldn't normally wear before (men, am I right?), and just generally allowing yourself to live for you and only you. Selena also points out that it's okay for relationships to come to an end and explore the curiosity within yourself that is the question; Who else is out there that you want to experience love and life with? What is stopping you from going out into the world and living the life you've always dreamed of?

The beat that flows through this song is one that Selena seems to be the most comfortable with as of late. Displaying a clear love for uptempo pop-dance inspired arrangements that are fresh and unique, a similar vibe can be heard throughout Rare (which is not a surprise considering Single Soon was a scrap from the album) and fits Selena's voice perfectly. Whilst she is no stranger to an emotional ballad, she also certainly know's how to have a good time and let the dance take over.

Hopefully, in the future, we will get to see Selena explore deeper into the world of craziness that is dance, pop, EDM, and so forth. Personally, being a fan of her since she premiered on Disney Channel's 'Wizards Of Waverly Place' as Alex Russo and released her first album Stars Dance in 2013, it has been an absolute pleasure watching her grow as a human and experiment with her sound. Of course, her love for music has always been turbulent and has given her an unlucky amount of mental and physical turmoil, but regardless of whats happened in her life, she has always remained on top when it comes to using her voice and creating musical art for the world to relate to and treasure forever.

Joining Selena's opinion, Single Soon is just what we all needed to help us round off the Summer of 2023 and gently remind us to allow ourselves to fulfill our needs and be happy above everything.

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CONCLUSION: Being a short song that consists of only 2 minutes and 51 seconds, Selena has managed to deliver her message in a fresh and fun way through a late night dance-pop beat that takes over your body and makes you want to run away to a different city with your best of friends and be free together whilst dancing the night away. She keeps it relatable by getting straight to the point and encouraging the listener to ditch out on all romantic escapades and live a carefree life and relish in your younger years. A real feel good end-of-summer bop that is sure to be in my playlist for the foreseeable future.

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SINGLE SOON IS A CERTIFIED 9.5/10 BY REVIEWS BY LIAM

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Thank you for checking out my review of Selena Gomez's new song Single Soon!

If you would like to listen to Selena's new song, Single Soon, it is now available on all music streaming platforms alongside a music video on YouTube!

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Miley Cyrus - Used To Be Young

(Single Review)

28/08/2023

Friendly Reminder: make sure to listen to the song whilst reading!

Miley Cyrus for Used To Be Young

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After releasing her new album Endless Summer Vacation on the 10th of March 2023, Miley decided to add a new song to the album on the 25th of August 2023, which is the beautiful, nostalgic, heartfelt ballad that is Used To Be Young.

In this song, Miley explores how all her life she has had people critic her every move, every relationship, every mistake, every achievement, every single thing. But low and behold, she has come back with a vengeance to prove that every thing she did when she was a younger person after coming out of child acting does not represent who she is today.

After leaving a very public, long-term relationship with Liam Hemsworth, she went onto finding herself and expressing nothing but love to herself and figuring out life as a single woman with no romantic obligations and possibly having to revisit some memories to help heal. Which has led us to Used To Be Young.

Over the years, Miley strived to quieten down her image after being labelled the "wild Disney child" and receiving worldwide backlash just for simply expressing herself the way she wanted to through music and her passion of performing. Whilst many of her peers looked down on her for her choices, she stuck her ground during those times and and lived her best life and then when the time came, she bettered herself and has come out on top more magnificent than ever.

Used To Be Young focuses on how in her past she was aware of her past behaviors and the way she publicly showcased them, but all she was doing was living unapologetically young. Like a majority of humans, there comes a time in our lives where we reach a point and realize to yourself; this is it, I have to change. I have to let go and let people know I am not that person anymore and I want to live the real me. The sounds behind the lyrics are very light and helps keep a very sentimental value about the songs meaning to its core.

Some breakdowns of relationships / friendship's whittle down to one thing; change. One person wanting to calm down and find happiness in other things, and the other refusing to change. There are so many factors into a breakdown of any type of -ship, but its how we progress forward and learn and heal from it that matters more than anything. Acknowledging the fun times are a good thing, which is what Miley does in this song with "But god damn, it was fun" - its okay to say you miss the good times you had, but just because they were good times doesn't mean that they weren't also hurtful in the long run.

We as growing adults forget that when we were teenagers and young kids, we all lived as we pleased when it came to love and figuring out the world and did the utmost best that we could to make sense of it all, but one thing we did do for certain? Make mistakes. A lot of them. And how you process those mistakes, whether it be in 2 weeks, 5 months or 10 years, will all involve realizing that you used to be crazy, you used to be wild, people WILL say time has changed you, but you will know that is okay, because it made you who you are today.

And no, you cant change the past, you can't erase memories, but what you can do is pick yourself up and learn. You can change your future and that's exactly what Miley Cyrus is doing. She's realizing that all the thing's she's done in the past were not because she was wild, crazy, fun. It was because she Used To Be Young, and now its time to move on.

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CONCLUSION: An absolutely beautiful melody accompanied by the raw talent that is Miley. The production on her songs never fail to amaze me, alongside with the emotions that blend into the lyrics that make you dive deep into your own personal life and start doing some self reflecting. Her forever changing tone of voice and impeccable range whether it be low or high is just breathtaking. Looking forward to hearing her future projects and how she's going to continue navigating the world as Miley Cyrus.

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USED TO BE YOUNG IS A CERTIFIED 10/10 BY REVIEWS BY LIAM

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Thank you for checking out my review of Miley Cyrus's new single Used To Be Young!

If you would like to listen to Miley's new album Endless Summer Vacaction, which now has the new single Used To Be Young added to the tracklist,the album is on all music streaming sites and iTunes!

Please support my blog by giving me a follow and sharing my reviews with your friends & family and leave your own thoughts about the song in the comments below!

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Victoria Monét - JAGUAR II

(Album Review)

28/08/2023

Victoria Monét for JAGUAR II

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As the sun sets over the jungle and eyes begin to glow in the wallowing bushes and lightly swaying tree branches, a deep growl in the distance can be heard, and if you search deep enough, you'll come to find its the almighty Jaguar that is Victoria Monét, thumping her paws against the mossy floor of the jungle, asserting her feminine dominance in a man's world.

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JAGUAR II is the raunchier but chilled sister album to the critically acclaimed EP JAGUAR which was released in 2020.

JAGUAR II consist's of 11 songs and 4 features, with one of those features being Victoria's own 2 year old daughter, Hazel Monét. Other artists that were welcomed into the jungle and made a part of Victoria's tribe were Lucky Daye, Buju Banton and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Friendly Suggestion: listen to the album from start to finish if you want the full effect of the review.

Tracklist Review :

1). Smoke featuring Lucky Daye; Victoria and Lucky play on the idea of smoking marijuana & having intimate relations together, whilst making sure to not forget to remind one another of the importance of cherishing the moment, no matter what it be. Filled with soul and R&B beats, this song is definitely designed to help influence a sultry vibe to the smoke sesh with the one you love.

2). Smoke (Reprise); Victoria sings about ending a special night with a loved one on a high note, which can be interpreted in any way the listener decides. A slow kick beat with light vocals and incredibly euphoric instrumentals that leisurely pace into a uplifting drum that transitions into Party Girls is one to not be missed.

3). Party Girls feat. Buju Banton; The sweet sound of Victoria's angelic vocals and Buju's raspy voice are enough to make your ears melt beyond solidification. The song tells a story of two lovers no longer holding back and allowing each other to fall into one of the beautiful dances of life that is love, whilst not forgetting to recognize the women of the world that get shit done and can still have a good time. Both artists have no issues keeping the listener intrigued with harmonic vocals and a beat so fluid that you will find yourself getting lost over and over again. From a slow whine to a fast whine, the beat will not fail to keep you locked in and keep those hips loaded whilst you transition into an uptempo situation with Alright.

4). Alright; Going from Party Girls into Alright is definitely one to make you say "oh, we're feeling this way now?! Okaaaay!". Alright is nothing but a feel good anthem regarding owning your body and being the one in control of it. Victoria focuses on how sometimes its fun to play the mind games with men that they would find pleasure in doing to you, and letting them think they have access to your most desirable parts when they're nowhere near. A fun, dance-funk blended beat that is sure to help level up your respect and love for yourself.

5). Cadillac (A Pimps Anthem); Sex. Dominance. Assertion. Power. That's what Cadillac embodies. Victoria enters this song talking about how a woman's appearance is sometimes misunderstood and implies that just because a woman is dressed pretty doesn't mean she is without power.. Then, in glides the smooth-like-butter vocals from Victoria and instantly you're hooked on the reggae-ton, jazz filled sounds that keep you wanting more as long as Victoria's voice accompanies them. A statement on how woman have quite literally been the driving force behind society since the beginning of time, and that women have just as much power in the game as the average male. A sensational, seductive and chin-punching attitude filled track.

6). How Does It Make You Feel; A soft, chilled, romantic atmosphere enters the room with How Does It Make You Feel. Victoria's sultry vocals accompanied by calm but intimate R&B sounds and ethereal instrumentals help send a subtle message to the listener that it's okay to follow your heart and love unapologetically, especially when you believe that person is your soulmate. Victoria also seems to play on the question; How does it feel to have someone who's love is for you, and only you? Very beautifully produced and vocalized, enough to make you believe you're in Heaven.

7). On My Mama; This specific track is an ode to Victoria herself, a homage to her Mother (L'Tanya Chestang-Cubit), as well as woman everywhere who seem to forget who they are and where they came from. Whilst it holds an iconic interpolation from Chalie Boy's song I Look Good, it also sends a powerful message to women everywhere that you should love the body you're in, because your Mama gave it to you. Victoria also sends out a signal to people across the world that she's very affirmed in her body and success and isn't afraid to hype herself up. A bad bitch anthem that will make you feel good each time.

8). I'm The One; An emotional change from On My Mama, Victoria has switched from feeling herself, to wondering why a romantic partner she is invested in cannot bring themselves to commit to her or acknowledge her and the love she has to give to them. Sometime's people are blind to whats in front of them and this song captures the frustration of how that feels. Overall, a thorough track with a orchestral R&B beat that helps the listener relate on a personal level.

9). Stop (Askin' Me 4Shyt); One for the girls that are sick of being the main breadwinner. Victoria makes it known with Stop (Askin' Me 4Shyt), that her lovers lease is up, and it's time to go. Sometimes, when a person is no longer bringing anything to the table and you're the only one keeping the lights on, you gotta kick the legs out from under their seat and send them back to the streets. A relationship should be beneficial for both people, not just one, and with the help of some light jazz/funk beats, Victoria delivers that eviction notice beautifully.

10). Hollywood feat. Hazel Monét + Earth, Wind & Fire; A very special track to help close out the album, as it features Victoria's young daughter Hazel. Alongside Hazel are Earth, Wind & Fire - one of the most iconic black musician groups in the world. Victoria uses this track to help herself remember how life used to be before she climbed to fame, and that it still all seems like a dream to her. Earth, Wind & Fire's vocals help solidify the message of the song and add sense of calm to the experience. Whilst also Victoria seems to be questioning things about her own life in this track, it comes across as also a personal message to Hazel herself that your dreams are achievable in every way possible, no matter how big they will be. Hazels moment on the track at the end with her giggle is the cherry on top for the end of the song to transition into the last track. Emotionally personal and a very special piece on the album that persuades the listener to make it their own personal track by asking questions about life, without forgetting to still chase your dreams.

11). Goodbye; An orchestral closing song? Grab the tissues. Tracks like these are always difficult for artists; it consists of closing chapters, moving on, finding peace and love somewhere else. But chapters of our lives don't always close so easily, and sometime's it's a battle of not being able to move on because of the physical connection you once had that you wish was still there. Just one more night, one more night with their skin, smell, touch, heartbeat. That's all you want. And when that can't be achieved, you say Goodbye. With the help of some pop/jazz and a few orchestra moments, Victoria sends her lover off into the world with no ill regrets.

A heartfelt message to a once dearly treasured lover that not all endings have to be bad and that some beauty can come from them.

*REVIEW FINISHED*

CONCLUSION: This is one album I have had the absolute pleasure of listening to over and over again since it's release. Very jam-packed with fun beats, mood elevating vibes and seductive measures, very strategic lyrics and structured features that all helped bring a beautiful energy to the album and its story-line. A guaranteed re-listen at any time of life. Congratulations to Victoria and her team for creating such a beautiful art of work.

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JAGUAR II IS CERTIFIED 10/10 BY REVIEWSBYLIAM

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If you got this far, THANK YOU! I hope you enjoyed my FIRST EVER ALBUM REVIEW!!

I'm so stoked that my first review was the amazingly talented Victoria Monét and her new album JAGUAR II !!

If you'd like to listen to her album, it's available to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, all other music streaming sites and on iTunes!

Music Videos / Visualizers are also available on Youtube!

Please support my blog by giving me a follow and sharing my reviews with your friends & family and leave your own thoughts about the album in the comments below!

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