Donkeyboy - Sometimes

"Sometimes I need somebody who can make me feel alright"

This fantastic band with an unfortunate name is absolutely taking over Norway. They have multiple songs in the top ten on itunes right now, and their (much anticipated--by me) album comes out in a few weeks. I featured their gorgeous debut single, Ambitions, earlier in the year, and wanted to highlight the next one today. Sometimes has a slightly more electronic influence to it and sounds very mid-eighties. Think Starship's Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now minus the sentimentality. Having heard samples from the album, I'm happy to say that most of the songs seem to follow this type of sound--subtle electronics with an un-kitschy 80's influence. Unfortunately I haven't gotten my hands on an mp3 of this track, so I'm linking to a very high quality youtube version. This is a massive song.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Preorder the album here. Follow me on twitter at nickajames)

Blake Lewis - Heartbreak On Vinyl

"I waited for you at the record shop"

Despite loving him on Idol, I was completely underwhelmed by Blake Lewis' debut album a couple of years ago. It was just too scatter shot and unfocused for me, with far too much of a hip-hop influence. Thankfully, Blake's new album (out today) is the complete opposite. I'm actually blown away by how much better it is. With much more of an influence on melodic songwriting and fresh, electronic dance beats, the record absolutely soars. I was mildly impressed with the single, Sad Song, but now having listened to the album in full I can say that it's one of the weaker tracks. Not so with Heartbreak On Vinyl. It's easily Blake's finest song to date, an anthematic pop/dance track that is impossible to dislike. Lyrically, melodically, production-wise, it's an absolute triumph and really sets the listener up for the rest of the album (of which I Left My Baby For You is my other favorite). I hope that talent like this is able to shine through and be successful, especially after the misstep that was Audio Daydream. Listen, and I promise that you'll be a fan.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Buy the album here. Follow me on twitter at nickajames)

Allison Iraheta - Friday I'll Be Over U

"You weren't what you advertised"

Allison Iraheta finished fourth on this year's American Idol and was easily my second favorite contestant. When I heard that she was working with Max Martin, as she did for this single, I was very happy. His brand of over-the-top catchy pop/rock is exactly what I hoped she'd release after the show. Friday I'll Be Over U, the first single, was premiered today and doesn't disappoint. It's got a very Kelly Clarkson vibe, yet feels younger. It's also got more of an electronic influence and a real funky guitar line in the verses. Allison sounds flawless as usual... way beyond her years yet totally youthful at the same time. She was definitely one of the most likable contestants the series has had, and I hope that goodwill helps launch her into stardom. This single is a great first step.

(Music posted for evaluation purposes only. If you like what you hear, support the artists. Preorder the album here. Follow me on twitter at nickajames)

Track-by-Track: Dragonette - Fixin' To Thrill

Dragonette's second album was just released in Canada and Australia. I am nowhere near Australia, but do live right across the Canadian border, so I snagged myself a copy and have some early thoughts for you.

1. Fixin' To Thrill - I love the video for this song! On the record, it's one of the hardest, edgiest tracks and although it's not instantly memorable, it's a fantastic taste of what's to come. 9/10

2. Gone Too Far - This is a weird one, probably the strangest on the album. It's like an electronic hoe-down. Whether that's a good sound or not is debatable, though it's certainly interesting. Sometimes I think that the quirkiness gets in the way of melody, though. 8/10

3. Liar - My favorite track on the album, this has a poppier dance sound. The chorus is astoundingly catchy--subtle yet hard-edged at the same time. It would do wonders as a single in Sweden (is their stuff even out in Sweden?). 10/10

4. Stupid Grin - Fine uptempo stuff, it sounds a lot like their debut. The melody could use a little oomph, but this will definitely get you dancing. 8/10

5. Easy - A slower song, supported with some great, minimal electronics. It builds throughout, and the lyrics are especially nice. There's more of a melody here, which is always a plus. 9/10

6. Pick Up The Phone - Another single, I think this is the stronger of the two. The verses are truly gorgeous, as are the vocals. This is one of those stately pop songs that grows better with each listen. 10/10

7. We Rule The World - Though the 80's are obviously an inspiration throughout, this track especially sounds like it could have been on the radio beside Human League and Tears For Fears. The synths here are gorgeous. 10/10

8. Big Sunglasses - This has the same bright, dancey sound as track four, but it's better. The chorus is almost Beach Boys-esque, though twisted to fit Dragonette's style. Another winner. 10/10

9. Okay Dolore - Weird little song with one half of Tegan & Sarah on background vocals. Though still very pop, this has a bit of an indier vibe to it. Very enjoyable, nonetheless. 8/10

10. Come On Be Good - I love the melody of this, especially the bridge and the chorus. It sounds like something I've heard before, though I can't put my finger on it. Another uptempo. Very good. 9/10

11. You're A Disaster - This is the slowest song on the album and the least electronic. The melody's pretty good, but it cuts the energy right out of the record. Pretty, but my least favorite track. 6/10

12. Don't Be Funny - Another one I can kinda take or leave. It's a nice mid-tempo piece, but I feel like the melody is missing a little oomph. 7/10

Album Grade: 8.7/10