It's time to get a bit Danity in this bitch.
I remain unfazed by the allegations of shake-ups within Danity Kane's line up. Call it a hunch or call it mere common sense, but the band was formed within a MTV program first and foremost. The producers of the show will not knowingly allow a Making The Band season to end without some seriously heated in-fighting and melodrama before signing off. The live finale is next week, where we will inevitably find that Diddy has decided to re-unite the band much to our great relief. If he doesn't? Now, that would be a surprise, and a truly grim indication of DK's future. Then again, we are living within a recession. Maybe we'll find out that Diddy has been streamlining the business and cutting costs...A sign of the times, surely.
For argument's sake, let's pretend that the band remains intact, because I'd like to discuss their last (perhaps literal?) release.
Welcome To The Dollhouse was released in April, and remains one of my most played albums of 2008. Of the entire album, the only track worth skipping is the embarrassingly schlocky sign-off track, "Key To My Heart". While other albums have come and gone this year (Hey, Lady GaGa), I've continued to return to this album. The album's tracks remain as solid as its first play for me: Unstoppable melodies, vocal acrobatics, and glittering production value. While it may go unrecognized, this is the Pussycats Dolls album that should have been. One listen of the breathy, electro-stung aural orgasm "Strip Tease" requires no further explanation.
One of the rare joys of Welcome To The Dollhouse is its determined focus within the present: This is an authentic 2008 album. Considering the recent onslaught of '80's inspired electro-glitch and feel good '60's airy pop (who isn't claiming to be making music inspired by one of these two eras these days, honestly?!), it's becoming difficult to carve out a decidedly "now" sound of the '00's. Luckily, it's a sound happily achieved within this Dollhouse.
Whether or not there will be more to come from Danity remains unknown. It's unlikely to me, as the members have already begun persuing solo interests and projects. Either way, Dollhouse has gone on to become an overlooked album, lacking in both promotion and airplay.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Danity Kane: A Retrospective
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Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Nicole: More Than A Pussy
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So, I've got to get something off of my chest...It's not quite a confession, but not a proud moment either. There's a certain song that I've been absolutely adoring lately. Not just for now, but for the past two months. Literally. The song in question? The flop-tastic "Whatever U Like" by Miss Nicole "Poon" Scherzazingagger.
There are reasons plentiful to be shaking your enraged fist at the screen at this point. The track is unoriginal for one, and to anyone unaware, check out Chili's unreleased track "Straight Jack 'Em" with Missy Elliot.
Doesn't stop there, though. The next offending rip was from Kelis' "Blindfold Me." Not that it's a coincidence--both tracks share the same producer: Polow Da Don.
Riding high off of the skanky-sweet success of PCD's fairly brilliant debut album, Nicole Scherzinger's eyes were set firmly on a solo recording career in 2007. An album was in the works, singles were being selected, and success seemed only one solid floor-filler away from forcing everyone in America to finally memorize her dreaded last name. Thus, "Whatever U Like" was born.
Far from a standard booty shaker though, "Whatever U Like" features several elements combined into one: Multiple breakdowns, playful lyrical round-a-bouts, and a seriously addictive chorus. Lyrical moments of genius were found in the verse bits, including "First stop, let me drop, pop like a helicop', pay attention to me while I show you the scenario."
The track debuted during the last week in August, around the same time that "Gimme More" burst out of the stratosphere. To promote, Nicole would be performing as the final artist of the pre-VMA ceremony. On a night during which Britney's comeback would provoke an onsalught of media scrutiny for her shaky performance, Nicole too displayed an equally unbalanced effort: Her vocals were jittery and nervewrecked; her moves unfocused. The entire ensemble provided a perfect example of why live vocals do not always "qualify" a performance. Instead of making the song come alive, the microphone proved a huge stalling point for Nicole. Promotion soon stalled, and the single never lifted off the airwaves. It peaked on the Hot 100 at #104, took a quick dip in and out of the clubs, and was never to be heard from again.
Fast forward to September '08. Purely by accident, I stumbled across the video for "Whatever U Like" while perusing (note: procrastinating) through YouTube. After an initial eye roll, it suddenly hit me: This song was worth more than a passing moment! It's got a well-crafted video in its defense. If you can get past the "Ring The Alarm" bells and whistles and more expected ass-and-tits shots, thre are still about a half-dozen moments of genius, including grungy cinematography that wavers somewhere between low budget film and art house.
With the release of Doll Domination this year, it was clear that the label was doing its best to place Nicole at the forefront to prepare her for an actual debut in 2009. The package includes a double-disc with solo material from each Doll, as well as recycled tracks from Nicole's stalled first attempt. However, with tanking CD sale numbers and sub-par song quality in comparison to the first attempt, things continue to appear quite dubious regarding Nicole's solo dreams.
Nicole has a healthy amount of potential, and it's a shame that she isn't reaching onto the proper material or promotion to do so on her own. Her voice is wonderful in the studio, and she does showcase it live quite often. She's sporting an indeterminable future at the moment, sort of like Alesha Dixon's Fired Up fiasco. For now, let us revel in times that were quite promising..."Whatever U Like," a deserving opportunity.
There now...I feel resolved.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Critical Analysis of Doll Domination
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The "snippets" (if you will) of PCD's Doll Domination have surfaced. Let's analyze them now through a critical lens, shall we?
3. "Whatcha Think About That" Featuring Missy Elliot
4. "I Hate This Part"
5. "Takin' Over The World"
6. "Out Of This Club" Featuring R.Kelly & Polow Da Don
7. "Who's Gonna Love You"
8. "Happily Never After"
9. "Magic"
10. "Halo"
11. "In Person"
12. "Elevator"
13. "Hush Hush"
14. "Love The Way You Love Me"
15. "Whatchamacallit"
16. "I'm Done"
17. "Baby Love"
18: "Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps"
Total listenability as computed through thumb algebra: %38.88 listenable.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Indistinguishable Dolls
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What I've been told is that this the new Pussycat Dolls album cover for their upcoming album, Doll Domination, but my eyes are simply telling me otherwise.
In order of appearance on the sleeve, is this or is this not: Sarah Harding, Dannii Minogue, Tila Tequila, Kimberley Walsh, and Carrie Underwood?! And look, Dannii even stole Kylie's body. She's always been so impossibly jealous.
...That would make for a killer girl group, now that I think of it. Nevertheless, there is no trace of Pussycat Doll 'flava' happening on this sleeve! Except for the logo. Have the airbrushers no mercy anymore?
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Daily B: What Should Have Been
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Imagine, if you will, a world where Britney's cameo in the Pussycat Doll's video for "When I Grow Up" wasn't cut on the editing floor. Well imagine no more, because here it is in all its unedited glory!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Revenge Of The Cats
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Whenever America's obsession with fame starts to take a slight dip in society's line of sight, you can always count on the Vaginakitten Mannequins Pussycat Dolls to come charging at us headfirst with a fist full of sass, asses full of class, and not-so-subliminal messages promoting the strive for fame and fortune like no one's business. So it comes as no surprise that the latest video for their single "Wh
en I Grow Up" is a four minute whirlwind of non-stop choreography, glamorous lollygagging around town, and full on half-boob exposure.
Seriously though, this here's one fun little trip. Sure, there's no Brit-Brit cameo after all--not that surprised. I'm guessing the director/editor either felt she would take away from the main stars of the video, or the scene was just deemed unnecessary. Maybe she was picking her nose while the camera was rolling. Whatever. The outfits are blazing hot (I'm guessing Technicolor was used--wave of the future), and their bodies are, if you will, poppin'.
In group morale related news, I'm glad the girls have all come to a mutual understanding that Nicole Schurdinflabursteinzinger will be taking the lead of this pussy pack from now on...there was no doubt in the video. Also love the fact that the ginger member of PCD wasn't even facially featured until around two minutes in. Come on now! Somewhere, a certain Nicola is crying tears of understanding.
So watch the video for yourselves, and realize that this is how you produce a comeback single/video. Check it out here on MTV for full, glorious high quality footage.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Daily B: Beyond the Blackout
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As far as the future of Blackout is concerned, no one can be quite certain of what lies ahead. There are a few conflicting reports kicking around cyberspace at the moment, both equally plausible and somewhat reliable. First off, AccessHollywood is reporting some direct quotage from Larry Rudolph, apparently explaining that "Radar" is indeed the next single, with a video being shot next week in London.
“The theme is her and her girlfriends are going to be looking all around London trying to find a boy who she met in a club,” Rudolph told the New York Post’s PopWrap. “Every time they think they have him, it’s someone else.”Exciting, of course. But just as that report surfaced, Mr. PopJustice had this to say on his forums:
Spears will also head behind the camera for the clip, co-directing the video, Rudolph confirmed.
“She will be behind the camera as much as possible; she wants to make sure it’s exactly right,” he said.
"Sony say that there will be no video for Radar and that Radar isn't actually being released as a single. Apparently that's it for Blackout now and Britney's in the studio working on new stuff."So that's that. My opinion? I think the Larry quote was fudged...I don't think it's the real story. I've seen her recording lately, I know the label is pleased--I think the new era is now beginning.
So what has been confirmed? The brief cameo for the new Pussycat Doll's video for their comeback single "When I Grow Up," due to be released sometime next week. It's going to be a small little nothing appearance--just her riding along in a car and waving to the girls. Small steps, I suppose.
Most exciting of all though is this little news flash: Guy Sigsworth is returning to the producer's table for the upcoming album! Sweet, wonderful glee! Check out the bit in this article regarding the solo career of Korn frontman, Jonathan Davis:When Sigsworth comes to L.A. to brainstorm with Davis this month, he’ll also spend time in the studio with Spears. He’s produced three songs for her, including the 2004 hit “Everytime.”
“It’s weird to think I’m doing him and Britney at the same time,” he says. “I don’t know if I’ll try to persuade them to do a duet together. That might be pushing it too far.”
Sigsworth & Spears is a whole lot of love. Lots and lots of good news. I can hardly wait...Bring it!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Kitty Kats
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And here I thought they were laying the brand to rest after riding the high of their ultimately successful album, PCD. But alas, I was mistaken! The Pussycat Dolls are back with a comeback single--and boy, it's a hot one. "When I Grow Up" isn't so much a departure from the sound of the first album as it is a continuation of the music that's worked for them in the first place. It's busy, it's flashy, and it sounds like a musical carnival ride. There's tons to be said about the song, but this is a well crafted, of-the-moment pop track. Simple as that. Nice to see you've come to your senses and given up the solo career, Nicole. It's not you really...it's your last name. Fire that agent for allowing you to enter the business without changing it.
And...Beyonce? Yep. Another leaked track from her latest recording sessions. This one's called "Should Have (Now I Know)". It's a trippy, pulling track surrounded by moans and laments and a super sliding, slippery back beat that reminds me of "Starstruck" by Santogold and "Discipline" by Janet. I'm enjoying it, if nothing else because this one doesn't have any Beyonce-invented words that end up being added to the next year's dictionary.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Welcome Back
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So it's been a full week since the leak of Danity's fabulous Welcome to the Dollhouse, and I refrained from posting a complete review until I allowed myself time to hear the album several times over. I ended up liking some tracks more than I did during the track-by-track leak last week, but the overall rating of the album remains the same.
I've continuously said it, but this is a strong release. "Sucka For Love", which I included in the download section below, is a truly shimmering moment. It's like getting sucked into a warm tunnel of glitter (Mariah Carey's vagina). Even "Ecstasy" and "Lights Out" shine for me, though they weren't initial favorites at first; they've got such unforgettable melodies above drippy bass beats...I love it! The phrasing is really key on these songs, as well as the entire album; it's nearly impossible not to fall in love with the girl's stuttering, stops, and sexified grunts. The CD may not be full of five-scale riffs, but its undeniably slippery with talent. And those are just the non-dance oriented tracks!
"Damaged" remains a jewel of pulsating perfection, and seems to get richer with age. I still can't get over the first bit of each verse. Aubrey's such a st-st-stutterer and it's so, so appetizing. "2 Of You" is the unexpected garage-rock-lite tune breaks the Danity trip-hop mold, and sounds so much better on a booming stereo system. The hand-claps are all shades of brilliant here: it's just smart pop! "Pretty Boy" grows steadily. If I'm not wrong, it feels more polished than the initial leak during the first single competition. And of course there's "Strip Tease", the Pussycat
Dolls-esque racy romp through cabaret beats and a perfect electro stinger during the chorus. I just love it when Shannon(?) breaks out the "I know you like it, the way I do it private" bit in the first verse. It's sex.
All of the tracks share a similar warm synth sound, making the album a well meshed compilation of beautiful electro-hop. Don't wait around for some vocal exercises on this album, because they're not here. Just bounce-happy melodies and seriously sharp pop bars. I remain confident in my ranking. This is top notch, Bad Boy produced or otherwise.
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DL: Danity Kane - Sucka For Love
DL: Danity Kane - 2 Of You
DL: Danity Kane - Strip Tease
DL: Danity Kane - Bad Girl ft. Missy Elliot
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Ladies With Baggage
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The single has been decided for the ladies of Diggity Dang Dinny Do Danity Kane, and the result is (shockingly) "Damaged," the ode to being broken goods and looking for a rebound. Hopefully they'll toss that other song entirely.
Additionally, the group revealed the new name for the second album: Welcome To The Dollhouse.
Thankfully, there aren't any other hip-hop influenced, sex-pot sextets around in the industry sharing the name "doll." Right? Additionally, props to the band for the genius shout out to the essential independent movie, Welcome to the Dollhouse from 1995 with Heather Matarazzo. I can only assume they're seeking to replicate the movie poster on their album cover. Break out those elastic hair ties, ladies.
DL: Danity Kane - Damaged
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| Britney Spears-Womanizer |
| Girls Aloud-The Promise |
| BoA-Eat You Up |
| Annie-2 Of Hearts |
| Alesha Dixon - The Boy Does Nothing |
| Grace Jones-William's Blood |
| Janelle Monae - Many Moons |
| Kaskade-Move For Me |
| Lorraine-Tell It All |
| Frankmusik-3 Little Words |
Single Reviews
- Alesha Dixon: The Boy Does Nothing - Oct 6, 2008
- Boa: Eat You Up - Oct 2, 2008
- Grace Jones: Bleeding Love - Sep 27, 2008
- On Womanizer... - Sep 26, 2008
- The Promise: First Thoughts - Sep 14, 2008
Album Reviews
- The Summer Daze of Natalie Walker - Aug 31, 2008
- The Suite Escape of Janelle Monáe - Aug 15, 2008
- Out To Sea... - Aug 3, 2008
- We've Come To Kick Your Ass. - Aug 1, 2008
- Shoot baby, shoot baby - Jul 28, 2008