Adam Lambert: Better Than I Know Myself - TRESPASSING

Hot off the presses is the buzz circulating with Glamberts worldwide. Adam Lambert officially releases his new single “Better Than I know Myself” from his much anticipated 2nd album “TRESPASSING” which has officially been given a release date of March 20th. 2012.

Adam Lambert’s first single “Better Than I Know Myself” from his upcoming album TRESPASSING is available now. You can get a free download of the single, when you pre-order Trespassing from Adam Lambert’s official website http://www.AdamOfficial.com it’s a holiday gift from Adam to his loyal fans, also known affectionately as Glamberts.

Pre-Order Adam Lambert's second album "TRESPASSING" Here. 

Adam’s new single is already creating quite the buzz worldwide, as fans praise and discuss the entertainers latest release on all popular social media sites. Want some feedback? Just check out Twitter for real fan recommendations and reviews of Better Than I Know Myself.

RCA Records / 19 Entertainment proudly announce in a press release, their recording artist and world renown entertainer Adam Lambert will release his second album TRESPASSING on March 20th. 2012.

Throughout the past year Adam has discussed in pieces here and there about the writing process and recording of his anticipated follow up to his successful debut album “For Your Entertainment” which has sold over a million copies worldwide.

Adam has taken an initial personal approach on the development of TRESPASSING, with co-writing many of the songs that will appear on the album. Adam has been fully supported by his record company, by allowing him to develop his creative freedom in the song writing process.

With a little help from his friends, Dr. Luke, Claude Kelly, Nikka Costa, Pharrell Williams, Bonnie McKee, Benny Blanco, Bruno Mars, Sam Sparro, BC Jean, and the legendary Nile Rodgers; Adam Lambert will be TRESPASSING into new territory with this release.

You might be interested in reading Adam Lambert and Nile Rodgers: Studio Alchemy.

Glam, funk, soul and techno, with over the top powerful pitch perfect vocals, is what you can expect from Adam when TRESPASSING drops. 


By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Adam Lambert and Nile Rodgers: Studio Alchemy

Adam Lambert is currently recording his second album and logging in some hours in the recording studio. Adam’s album was originally supposed to be released in 2011, but was recently revealed by his record company that the album would be released in 2012. Some really exciting news had been disclosed this week, that Adam Lambert would be collaborating with the legendary Nile Rodgers, on some new songs.

This is exciting news for all Glamberts, as Nile Rodgers is a historic hit maker, with a knack and flair for writing great songs. Nile has worked with everyone in the music industry as record producer and songwriter, usually collaborating with artists. 

Nile Rodgers was the driving force and melodic remedy maker behind many of Duran Duran’s album, including their “Notorious” album, which was a turning point for the band. Nile came in and became an actual member of Duran Duran, filling in the void as guitarist when Andy Taylor had left the band, the first time. 

Mr. Rodgers has a long list of reputable artists, many hit songs and albums, which he has produced, written, and collaborated on, that act as his recommendations. He is the producer behind David Bowie’s iconic “Let’s Dance” album, which spawned hits such as “China Girl”, “Modern Love”, and “Let’s Dance”. 

Nile Rodger’s songwriting and production work can be described as chic and soul, with hooks and melody that became anthems. His strength is in pop rock and R&B style music, where he shines with his golden touch, which inevitably becomes chart topping hits.

The collaboration of Nile Rodgers and Adam Lambert just makes perfect sense, not only on paper, but in reality. With Adam Lambert’s style and performance of flawless vocals, and desire for a more personal album, with songs to match, the combination of both working on songs and recording together, will make it a reality. 

You might be interested in reading Adam Lambert: The Quest for Platinum its a great article with some details on Adam's rise to fame, and a look at his album sales. A must read for all Glamberts.

Adam has dropped hints about the new songs; he has been co-writing and recording.  He has also mentioned the many producers and songwriters he’s working with, and spoke about the vibe and style of music, which he is after, and wants to record. 

Adam Lambert has control on the overall creative process on his next album, and as he mentioned many times, he wants this to be a in your face kind of album, with a direct punch and hit, while having more feeling and soul on his songs. 

With Nile Rodgers as a collaborating mentor on the creative process and songwriting, Adam Lambert is bound to come out with some sure fire hits on his new album. 

Adam Lambert and Nile Rodgers together is studio Alchemy.

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Britney Spears: Live Lap Dance on Stage

Britney Spears has rolled into Canada on her "Femme Fatale" tour, with a wild stop in Montreal. During the Montreal concert Britney gave a lucky guy a lap dance on stage. The lap dance was live onstage complete with the stripper pole, mimicking an actual strip club.

The Femme Fatal tour has been successful so far, and for all of Britney's fans, it has not been a disappointment, proving that Ms. Spears is still very popular and here to stay.

The lucky guy in Montreal who got a lap dance by Britney Spears was no other than Pauly D from the hit reality show "Jersey Shore". You can watch the live lap dance below.



You can read the full review of it here: Britney Spears: Femme Fatale (No Faux Pas)

Britney continues to the Femme Fatale Tour which ends in November, tickets are selling fast, as each concert gets a little more vivid, wild, and outrageous.

(C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music Group

Amy Winehouse: Belgrade Meltdown

Amy Winehouse has cancelled up coming concerts in Istanbul and Athens after the onstage meltdown that happened in Belgrade. Winehouse appeared to be dis-oriented and confused as she stumbled and mumbled through a short set of songs.

Amy was on a small tour, to test her stability and stamina in live performances, as part of her recovery on the road back to music. During her performance in Belgrade, which was a crowd of 20,000 she was booed off the stage for her lack of showmanship and ability to perform at the concert.


Amy Winehouse has returned home to London, where she will continue to work on her health.

The Rehab singer has not been a stranger to public mishaps and much reported erratic behavior due to substance abuse.

Amy Winehouse released her debut album "Frank" in 2003 followed by her successful second album "Back to Black".

Amy received 5 Grammy nominations and won five awards for her Back to Black album. 

Her biggest known song is "Rehab" which put Amy in the spotlight, with the media paying close attention to her imminent fall from grace.

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

How to be a Verified Belieber in 3 mins

Have you ever wondered what a verified belieber is? or what is a belieber?

Justin Bieber as you know by now is a phenomenal boy who struck fame with his debut album My World 2.0 He recorded and released the album in 2010 when he was 16 years old. 

Justin was discovered in 2008 by Scooter Braun who seen his Youtube videos when he was 14 years old. Justin recorded a few singles, while he was recording his debut album, which started the bieber fever.

What is a Belieber:

A Belieber is a nickname for Justin Bieber fans, who believes in Justin, the dream, and the phenomenon that is and surrounds Justin Bieber.

How to be a Verified Belieber: √ Verified Belieber

Watch the video below, it is the one of the first videos Justin Bieber posted on Youtube, before he was discovered. 

It takes only 3 minutes to be a verified Belieber.

The video is breath taking on the power and emotion in Justin's singing, and at such a young age. The unbelievable raw talent is there, and you are awestruck just watching him sing the song. 

Music Skins MS-JB60133 iPhone 4- Justin Bieber- Bieber s Girl Skin

After seeing this video of Justin Bieber, you will be a verified belieber, and part of the phenomenon of millions of beliebers worldwide.

By George Luker (C) 2011 Krule Music

Adam Lambert: The Quest for Platinum

Adam Lambert, the successful runner up from American Idol (Season 8) is on a quest for platinum. Adam's debut album "For Year Entertainment" is close to reaching platinum status in the US. As Adam is recording his follow up album, he is hoping to reach that platinum sales plateau, which is within reach with over 800,000 units sold already.

Whataya Want From Me is one of the best selling singles from his album "For Your Entertainment" selling over 1,6 million copies in the US alone. It is a great classic pop rock song, that really makes Adam Lambert shine as a vocalist and performer. The song has also earned him a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. 

For Your Entertainment Track Listing:

1. Music Again
2. For Your Entertainment
3. Whataya Want from Me
4. Strut
5. Soaked
6. Sure Fire Winners
7. A Loaded Smile
8. If I Had you
9. Pick U Up
10. Fever
11. Sleepwalker
12. Aftermath
13. Broken Open

Life on the Front Stage:
Adam is no stranger to the stage, he has been a public performer since he was a young boy. Performing as a stage actor, he has performed in many onstage musicals and toured before he became famous as a recording artist. All the plays and musicals, just added as training for a life in music. This is proof, that Adam Lambert is not a fly by night singing contest finalist. (Sarcastic pun intended).

In 2009 Adam decided to try out for American Idol (Season 8) which proved to be quite beneficial to him. It was predicted early in the season, by the judges, that Adam would go to the finals. Adam did go to the final and finished as the runner up. Through out the season 8 Adam performed a great mixture of pop and classic rock songs, which suited him well for his vocal style and performance.

During American Idol an apparent smear campaign was conducted against him, with some publishing photos of Lambert and another male being intimate. Adam admitted his sexual orientation and stated he was not ashamed nor, did he have anything to hide. Adam handled the situation in a very diplomatic way, and continued the season, and it did not effect his ratings as a singer and performer on American Idol.

Quest for Platinum:
Currently Adam Lambert is recording his second album in the studio, which is rumored to be a great album to come. With his vocal style and panache this is bound to be a much anticipated follow up album.

Adam Lambert possess all the qualities of a star performer, and successful one at that. With his flamboyant style, attitude and charisma he will be a successful artist always.

Adam Lambert is the male version of Lady Gaga all the elements are there, from vocals and style to marketing and performing.

Will Adam Lambert's debut album "For Your Entertainment" reach Platinum sales status before he releases his next album? We hope it does, he is an artist that deserves to cross the finish line.

Adam Lambert's album sales to date are approximately over 800,000 in the US, another 200,000 units need to be sold to have the RIAA certification of Platinum.


By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

MP3 Best Sellers: Alison Krauss, Foo Fighters and Paul Simon

Amazon MP3 Hot new releases and best sellers this week, is an interesting look at styles of music. Alison Krauss, The Foo Fighters, and Paul Simon are the top 3 best sellers.

#1 Alison Krauss & Union Station: Her new album "Paper Airplane" The album was released on April 12th, 2011 and now is the number 1 spot on Amazon music and Amazon MP3.

This is Alison's 14th album, and she shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Ms. Krauss is backed by Union Station on her latest release.

Alison Krauss last releases "Raising Sand" with Robert Plant was her most successful album to date. She had won six Grammy® Awards, which included "Album of the Year" and "Song of the Year".

At only 39 years old, the impressive and talented young singer/songwriter has won countless Grammy and other awards throughout her career.

#2 Foo Fighters new album "Wasting Light" is a HOT album, that was recently released. Dave Grohl the Foo Fighters main songwriter was also the drummer for Nirvana, which disbanded after Kurt Cobain committed suicide.

Wasting Light is an energetic album, with straight forward grunge, that is heavy on pent up rage, like previous Foo Fighter albums.

Free MP3: "I Should Have Know" is a free download at Amazon.

The new album was recorded in Grohl's garage, and with the atmosphere, is reunited on this album with Nirvana colleague and bassist Krist Novoselic.

If you notice the new album has a really grunge feel to it, that would be because of Butch Vig who is producing the Foo Fighters latest album. Butch Vig was the producer for Nirvana's break out album "Nevermind". There is allot of buzz surrounding the free MP3 "I Should Have Known", rumor has it, it could have a reference to Kurt Cobain.

#3 Paul Simon with "So Beautiful or So What" which is his twelfth studio album released on April 12, 2011 on Hear Music and Concord Music Group record labels. 

The album has received critical acclaim and rave reviews from many industry insiders, for the vibe and theme of the album. The album is a mix of art and spirituality, colored by music. Paul Simon has created a splendid work of art, that is soft, beautiful and leaves question unanswered, which is the secret of great songwriting and story telling.

So Beautiful or So What also included the song "Getting Ready for Christmas Day", which was previously played at concerts before this release. The song contains a sampling of a 1941 sermon by the late Rev. J.M. Gates. 



All three albums, are quite unique and interesting in their own genres, and all express them selves well in their songs and songwriting. 

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Music Review: Britney Spears - Femme Fatale (No Faux Pas)

Britney Mania is about to be unleashed like a circus freak show. Britney Spears new album “Femme Fatale” was just released, which is Ms. Spear’s seventh album. The much anticipated album is considered by many critics as her strongest album to date.

Yes, Britney did it again with Femme Fatale, a nonstop straight forward no holds barred dance album.  The production polished club album smells like fantasy perfume, with deep bass thumping dance songs. Like most of Britney Spears' songs, it is digital techno or as you might now it, modern day disco.

Britney has teamed up with some top industry producers for her latest album. Dr. Luke, Max Martin, will.i.am and Claude Kelly are the producers and songwriters on the latest release. Although Britney does not have any songwriting credits on the album, she does bring her brand and persona to the table. 

Max Martin and Dr. Luke are the executive producers of Femme Fatal, and they both bring their talent and abilities to the album. It is considered by many as one of the most exciting digitally produced album of the year. Will.i.am from the Black Eyed Peas also contributed and produced the song “Big Fat Bass” for the album. 

Femme Fatale (Deluxe) Track Listing:

• Till The World Ends
• Hold It Against Me
• Inside Out
• I Wanna Go
• How I Roll
• (Drop Dead) Beautiful (featuring Sabi)
• Seal It With a Kiss
• Big Fat Bass (featuring Will.i.am)
• Trouble For Me
• Trip To Your Heart
• Gasoline
• Criminal
• Up N' Down
• He About To Lose Me
• Selfish
• Don't Keep Me Waiting. 

 

Many critics have criticized the album for being extremely polished, as well as manipulation of Britney Spears vocals. In my opinion it is a straight up dance album, which is what Britney is known for, and is part of the Britney brand. I also believe Femme Fetal is a pause on the stepping stones of something far more critical to come because pole dancing in black garters has become passé and a cliché that has been done from everyone from Madonna and Lady Gaga to Keisha.  

Femme Fatale is not a faux pas for Britney; overall it’s her best album to date, and nothing that is disappointing.  The album will wet the appetite of Spear’s fans, which will start the buzz for Britney Mania, n’est ce pas? After all she is America’s pop princess.

Britney has announced a summer tour in North America to support Femme Fatale. 

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Duran Duran: All You Need Is Now Tour Schedule

Duran Duran just started their All You Need Is Now Tour, to support their new album.

The tour started on March 07, 2011 and will run finish on August 21, 2011. The world tour has 46 shows in 17 countries. Complete tour schedule is listed below.

 

Throughout Duran Duran’s 30 year career the band has gone on tour 18 times to promote past album releases. The last tour the band did was the Red Carpet Massacre Tour (2007-2008).

 

You can read the CD review here. Music Review: Duran Duran - All You Need Is Now

 

Duran Duran kicked off the All You Need Is Now tour in with a special performance for The "American Express Unstaged" music series, on March 23rd at the Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles. The Amex Unstaged performance was a live stream broadcast, which was produced and directed by Award-winning filmmaker David Lynch.

North America Tour Dates:

 

Date:	City:	Country:	Venue:	Tickets:
April 02, 2011	Mashantucket, CT	USA	MGM Grand at Foxwoods	Tickets
April 04, 2011	Atlanta, GA	USA	Center Stage Theater	Tickets
April 06, 2011	Houston, TX	USA	Warehouse Live	Tickets
April 08, 2011	Monterrey	Mexico	Banamex Auditorium	Tickets
April 10, 2011	Guadalajara	Mexico	Telmex Auditorium	Tickets
April 11, 2011	Mexico City	Mexico	National Auditorium	Tickets
April 14, 2011	Pomona, CA	USA	The Fox Theatre	Tickets
April 16, 2011	San Francisco, CA	USA	The Fillmore Theater	Tickets
April 17, 2011	Indio, CA	USA	Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival	Tickets
April 20, 2011	Denver, CO	USA	Ogden Theatre	Tickets
April 22, 2011	Minneapolis, MN	USA	Epic Club	Tickets
April 23, 2011	Chicago, IL	USA	House of Blues	Tickets
April 25, 2011	Toronto, ON	Canada	Phoenix Concert Theatre	Tickets
April 27, 2011	Boston, MA	USA	Royale Theatre	Tickets
April 28, 2011	La Romana	Dominican Republic	Altos de Chavón Amphitheater	Tickets

European Tour Dates:

 

May 18, 2011	Newcastle	England	Metro Radio Arena	Cancelled
May 19, 2011	Glasgow	Scotland	SECC	Cancelled
May 21, 2011	Birmingham	England	LG Arena	Cancelled
May 22, 2011	Nottingham	England	Capital FM Arena	Cancelled
May 23, 2011	Liverpool	England	Echo Arena Liverpool	Cancelled
May 26, 2011	Berlin	Germany	Admiralspalast	Cancelled
May 28, 2011	London	England	The O2 Arena	Cancelled
May 30, 2011	Brighton	England	The Brighton Centre	Cancelled
May 31, 2011	Bournemouth	England	Bournemouth International Centre	Cancelled
June 01, 2011	Cardiff	Wales	Cardiff International Arena	Cancelled
June 03, 2011	Manchester	England	MEN Arena	Cancelled
June 04, 2011	Sheffield	England	Sheffield Arena	Cancelled
June 10, 2011	Paris	France	Le Grand Rex Theater	Tickets
June 11, 2011	Den Haag	Netherlands	ADO Kyocera Stadion	Tickets
June 12, 2011	Brussels	Belgium	Forest National	Tickets
June 14, 2011	Copenhagen	Denmark	Tivoli Gardens	Tickets
June 15, 2011	Gothenburg	Sweden	Lisebergshallen	Tickets
June 16, 2011	Stockholm	Sweden	Cirkus	Tickets
June 18, 2011	Helsinki	Finland	Kaisaniemi Park	Tickets
June 21, 2011	Moscow	Russia	Megasport Arena	Tickets
June 23, 2011	St Petersburg	Russia	The New Arena	Tickets
July 14, 2011	Dublin	Ireland	The O2	Tickets
July 16, 2011	London	England	iTunes Festival	Tickets
August 06, 2011	Schaffhausen	Switzerland	Das Festival	Tickets
August 20, 2011	Staffordshire	England	V Festival	Tickets
August 21, 2011	Chelmsford	England	V Festival	Tickets
Oct. 01, 2011	Valley Center, CA	USA	Sky Theater	Tickets
Oct. 04, 2011	Broomfield, CO	USA	1ST. Bank Center	Tickets
Oct. 06, 2011	Grand Prairie, TX	USA	Verizon Theater	Tickets
Oct. 07, 2011	Baton Rouge, LA	USA	River Center	Tickets
Oct. 08, 2011	Mobile, AL	USA	Bayfest	Tickets
Oct. 10, 2011	Clearwater, FL	USA	Ruth Eckerd Hall	Tickets
Oct. 11, 2011	Hollywood, CA	USA	Seminole Hard Rock Hotel	Tickets
Oct. 13, 2011	St-Augustine, FL	USA	St. Augustine Amphitheater	Tickets
Oct. 14, 2011	Atlanta, GA	USA	Chastain Park	Tickets
Oct. 16, 2011	Washington, D.C.	USA	Constitutional Hall	Tickets
Oct. 17, 2011	Philadelphia, PH	USA	Tower Theater	Tickets
Oct. 19, 2011	Cleveland, OH	USA	Playhouse Square Theater	Tickets
Oct. 21, 2011	Chicago, IL	USA	Chicago Theater	Tickets
Oct. 22, 2011	Windsor, ON	Canada	Cesear’s	Tickets
Oct. 23, 2011	Montreal, QC	Canada	Bell Centre	Tickets
Oct. 25, 2011	New York, NY	USA	Madison Square Garden	Tickets
Oct. 27, 2011	Toronto, ON	Canada	Air Canada Centre	Tickets
Oct. 28, 2011	Boston, MA	USA	The Wang Theater	Tickets
Oct. 29, 2011	Atlantic City, NJ	USA	Borgata	Tickets
Nov. 13, 2011	Paulinia, Sao Paulo	Brazil	SWU Music and Arts Festival	Tickets
Nov. 30, 2011	Brighton	UK	The Brighton Centre	Tickets
Dec. 01, 2011	Bournemouth	UK	Bournemouth International Centre	Tickets
Dec. 02, 2011	Birmingham	UK	Birmingham LG Arena	Tickets
Dec. 04, 2011	Glasgow	Scotland	Glasgow SECC	Tickets
Dec. 06, 2011	Nottingham	UK	Nottingham Capital FM Arena	Tickets
Dec. 08, 2011	Cardiff	UK	Cardiff International Arena	Tickets
Dec. 10, 2011	Liverpool	UK	Liverpool Echo Arena	Tickets
Dec. 12, 2011	London	UK	London 02 Arena	Tickets
Dec. 14, 2011	Sheffield	UK	Sheffield Motorpoint Arena	Tickets
Dec. 16, 2011	Manchester	UK	Men Arena	Tickets
Dec. 17, 2011	Newcastle	UK	Newcastle Metro Radio Arena	Tickets
Dec. 20, 2011	Dublin	Ireland	O2 Arena	Tickets

 

The tour also marks the bands 30th anniversary, in which Duran Duran would have some special planned for some of the concert dates. What could Duran Duran possibly do for their 30th anniversary?

 

UPDATE October 2011: The Wild Boys are Back!

 

By George Luker © Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Music Review: Duran Duran - All You Need is Now

Duran  Duran release their new album “All You Need Is Now” which many critics are claiming to be the follow up of their successful second album “Rio”. The new studio album does have a mystique aura about it, as it is their 13^th album. The number 13 is historically a significant number through the ages, so for Duran Duran with their back to basics sound on “All You Need Is Now” it fits the groove perfectly. 

Duran Duran  come full circle, and go back to their roots, with what made them successful as a band and recording artist in the first place, the music. There is even a sense of the visual artistic style that had eluded the band since the early 80’s.

The band minus a founding member Andy Taylor, come back with a smash hit album that is nothing shy of a miraculous reincarnation of their original sound and style,  including the romantic love affair of poem with dance pop music. 

Mark Ronson who produced “All You Need Is Now” is a well known English DJ and producer, and avid Duran Duran fan since his childhood. Ronson takes Duran Duran and brings them back to their sound, and style of music and songs, which really makes this album the follow up of “Rio”. 

Simon Le Bon’s vocals soar with conviction, energy and style on every track, which makes the album a true Duran Duran album. John Taylor is back as a Bass player, with those funky bass lines, that were heard on early Duran Duran albums, backed up with Roger’s solid drumming rhythm.  Last but not least is Nick Rhodes with the pioneering electrified synthesizer sounds of the early days. 

Duran  Duran is back and stronger than before, “All You Need Is Now” is the next best album after “Rio”.

Track listing of All You Need Is Now:

• All You Need Is Now
• Blame The Machines
• Being Followed
• Leave a Light On
• Safe (In the Heat of the Moment)
• Girl Panic !
• A Diamond in the Mind
• The Man Who Stole a Leopard
• Other People's Lives
• Mediterranea
• Too Bad You're So Beautiful
• Runaway Runaway
• Return to Now
• Before the Rain

Duran Duran's new album "All You Need Is Now" is available now, released on Tapemodern Records, which is the bands own record label.

Duran Duran are about to go on tour to promote All You Need Is Now, and this tour marks the 30th anniversary of their debut album release "Duran Duran (1981)", which had one of its biggest singles "Girls on Film".

See Duran Duran: All You Need Is Now Tour Schedule.

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Music Review: Braids - Native Speaker

Braids is an indie band, but in reality more of an undercover complex social music unit. The band is from Calgary, Canada and is currently based in Montreal. Braids just recently released their debut album “Native Speaker”, which is a surprising, unique and refreshing musical sound. 

The band’s sound, is hard to label and pin point, but if words had to describe, the sound, style, and music of Braids, it would be experimental, techno social culture pop. The songs on Native Speaker are well written, conscientious songs, with a light flair and wave of digital techno engineering. This is in no way a dance album; it is a social awareness album with a new youth sound. Although it is an Indie experimental band, the songs are interesting and captivating to listen to.

Free MP3 Download:

Braids is giving a Free MP3 Download of the song “Plath Heart” 
The band is giving away a free download of their song Plath Heart, this download is available from Amazon MP3. You can download the song its self, or get the album and the song as well.

Title Tracks of Native Speaker:

• Lemonade (Explicit Lyrics)
• Plath Heart (Free MP3 Download)
• Glass Deers
• Native Speaker
• Lammicken
• Same Mum
• Little Hand

The songs on the album have a very polished production and timing, which makes Native Speaker stand out against other indie releases. A great debut album overall, never boring and worth listening to. As the young band matures more, it is quite possible they could be the next Arcade Fire.

Native Speaker is released by Flemish Eye in Canada and Kanine Records in the United States. 


By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Commentary: Clay Aiken Album Sales

Rumor has it that Clay Aiken has been dropped by his record label Decca, and speculation is due to poor album sales. Decca and officials for Clay Aiken have not made any comments as of yet. Clay did make a statement recently, that he has no immediate plans to record a new album, and that he was going to put all of his energy and focus on his current Tried and True Tour. Clay made this statement a few days before word hit the street about Decca dropping Clay from the label.

So let’s look at what happened. Tried and True was released in June 2010; the album is a great album full of classic songs, and songs everyone knows, including songs that Clay had sung on American idol (Season 2). Tried and True is a solid album from start to finish, music is spot on, and the songs Clay sings showcases his talent as a singer. In theory this was a well made and well planned album, which should have sold extremely well. One thing I will say though, it did not seem that marketing was high priority on Decca’s part. 

Tried and True album sales to date 63,000 copies sold. 

Did you see that? Let me repeat that statement, 63,000 copies sold. There is something wrong with this picture. If Tried and True was an album with original material, or songs written by songwriters for him, and the songs were not strong, then I would think, yes 63,000 sounds right. But that is not the case here, Tried and True is an album of classic cover songs, songs like the album title states are tried and true songs. 

Where are Clay Aiken’s Fans?

This is where I have a problem comprehending, that Tried and True sold only 63,000 copies. Clay Aiken has legions of fans worldwide, and very loyal fans. “Hypothetically I am going to say Clay has 10 million fans worldwide.” (Please feel free to correct me on my figures, by making a comment).  So if out of 10 million fans only 20 percent like the new album, this would be 2 million fans. Now let’s say that from 2 million fans, only 30 percent bought the album. By simple arithmetic, that would mean the album should have sold 600,000 copies. 

My estimate would have been that Tried and True should have sold between:  750,000 to 1.5 million copies worldwide within 1 year. By the calculation above 600,000 copies should have been sold, to date only 63,000 copies have been sold.  Did I miss something here? 

How many fans does Clay Aiken have? I will guess again and say 10 million fans worldwide, and I am going to make an assumption, and I bet that at least 2 to 3 million die hard Clay Aiken fans have a copy of Tried and True on their iPhones and laptops, but only 63,000 copies were sold.

How did this happen? Illegal file sharing could be the culprit, downloading songs and albums for free destroys an artist, and the recording industry. Clay Aiken’s Tried and True album is classic example.

Maybe now fans will realize why Clay was dropped from his record label, and he was dropped purely from a business standpoint, which was the album had poor sales. This is sad, because Tried and True is a great album, and from this point on, will be known as a turning point, and or the continued decline of legal album sales, due to piracy.

This is a commentary and this view is my own personal opinion, and does not reflect the views of Decca, or Clay Aiken.  

I am very passionate about my music, and always buy my music to support the artists and bands that I like. I became a fan of Clay Aiken, when I bought his Tried and True album to write a review for this blog, and it’s a CD I play quite often.

There is a link here to Amazon, where you can purchase the album, now would be a good time to show some support to Clay, and hopefully he will record a new album in the future.

Clay is currently on tour to support his album Tried and True.


By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Music Review: Linda Eder "Now" Nostalgic Romance

New music releases for March include the latest release from Linda Eder titled "Now". The new album can be described as easy listening and retro 60's Broadway musical. Linda reunites with a former musical partner Frank Wildhorn, who is the main songwriter and composer on her latest album "Now".

The mood and theme of Now is 1960's musical complete with the big band sound and nostalgia. Eder's vocal style on this album are very similar to Barbara Streisand, and the style of music just adds to that notion. The songs that Wildhorn has written back up and solidify the style of the album, with its throw back to 60's pop, with string orchestrated standards. Ironically the album's title "Now" does not reflect the actual time period of the music, but does give the indication that it's release is  current.

The style of Linda Eder's album is hopelessly romantic and lush mood music which gives it a romance themed CD.  Like all easy listening music, you could enjoy a glass of wine and listen to the whole album in its entirety, with a loved one of course.

Title Tracks:

1. Not Gonna Fall This time
2. No Finer Man
3. Ordinary People
4. The Heart of the Night
5. What Did You See in the Stars
6. Now
7. The Mad Hatter (From Wonderland)
8. A Woman In His Arms
9. Good bye
10. What's Never Been Done Before
11. More Than Heaven
12. Living In The Shadows

Overall a great album to listen to that transforms you to the romantic and nostalgic feelings of love, love and lost and reunion. Linda Eder covers all the emotion with her album "Now"

By George Luker (C) Copyright 2011 Krule Music

American Idol: Season 10 Breaking Point

American Idol starts season 10 with out Simon Cowell and his brutal judging. This season brings two new judges to the table, Jennifer Lopez (JLo) and Steven Tyler, Aerosmith's front man. Steven and Jennifer are seasoned performers and entertainers, so this is more realistic, than someone like Ellen DeGeneres.

 

This season of American Idol is a breaking point, and to be considered by many to be the make it or break it season. Simon Cowell is no longer a judge, and was at the forefront of AI since the beginning. Simon was the shows main attraction, apart from weird far out contestants. Simon will be back on TV with X-Factor this year, something to look forward to there.

 

Has American Idol outlived its expectations for viewers?

 

Steven Tyler will be the one person, who can make or break Idol this season, besides Tyler, There isn't any possible entertainment there from the judges.

 

“I know why we’re here. We’re all here because we’re not there” A nice quote from Aerosmith's front man, and in Steven Tyler style.

 

Aerosmith have put everything on hold for a year, while Tyler does his stint on Idol, this could be a strategic marketing plan for the band.

 

Season 10 of American Idol, so far has a few hopeful contestants that have a chance of making it to the final round, some of the noticeable contestants are Robbie Rosen, Jacee Badeaux, Kenzie Palmer, and Victoria Huggins.

 

Clay Aiken, American Idols Season two second place contestant, has made some good comments, and support behind Victoria Huggins. Clay and Victoria Huggins apparently go back a few years and know each other from other variety shows, where they had both won in their respected categories. Clay Aiken’s support for Victoria is only natural, and the 16 year old girl is a great singer with a huge potential for the future, regardless of how well she does on American Idol.

 

While we are talking about Clay Aiken, He is about to start his tour to support his latest release “Tried and True”  Complete details and concert listings and album reviews are on the Tried and True Tour Schedule article.

 

 

By George Luker © Copyright 2011 Krule Music

Clay Aiken: Tried and True Tour Schedule

Clay Aiken is about to start his official Tried and True tour, which is 22 date tour staring on February 10, 2011 in Miami, Florida. This is the much anticipated Tried and True tour all Clay Aiken fans have been waiting for. The tour will have Clay show case his gifted talent on all the classic songs from his latest release “Tried and True”.

 

The tour comes following Clay’s successful summer tour “Clay and Ruben Timeless Tour” with his friend and colleague Ruben Studdard, which was well received by fans and critics alike.

 

Read our album review of Tried and True along with complete song listing is on our blog post “Clay Aiken: Tried and True, Songs for You.

 

The album contains many classics including songs Clay had performed on American Idol (Season 2) including “Unchained Melody” and “Mack The Knife”

 

Clay Aiken had released a DVD “Clay Aiken: “Tried and True Live!”(2010) which was his live performance for the PBS concert special. It’s a great DVD which gives fans a taste of what to expect on his up coming tour.

 

Tried and True Tour Dates:

Event:	Location:	Date:
Clay Aiken	Knight Concert Hall,   Arsht Center for the Performing Arts Miami, FL	Feb. 10, 2011
Clay Aiken	Hard Rock Live Orlando, FL	Feb. 11, 2011
Clay Aiken	Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Sarasota, FL	Feb. 12, 2011
Clay Aiken	Jones Hall            (Valentine’s Day) Houston, TX	Feb. 14, 2011
Clay Aiken	Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Atlanta, GA	Feb. 16, 2011
Clay Aiken	Tennessee Theatre Knoxville, TN	Feb. 17, 2011
Clay Aiken	Carnegie Music Hall Homestead Pittsburgh, PA	Feb. 18, 2011
Clay Aiken	Playhouse Square Cleveland, OH	Feb. 19, 2011
Clay Aiken	Palace Theater Waterbury, CT	Feb. 20, 2011
Clay Aiken	Kraushaar Aud at Goucher College Baltimore, MD	Feb. 22, 2011
Clay Aiken	Blek Theater, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center Charlotte, NC	Feb. 23, 2011
Clay Aiken	Peace Center for the Arts Greenville, SC	Feb. 24, 2011
Clay Aiken	Theater at Westbury Westbury, NY	Feb. 26, 2011
Clay Aiken	Keswick Theater Glenside, PA	Feb. 27, 2011
Clay Aiken	Taft Theater Cincinnati, OH	March 01, 2011
Clay Aiken	Embassy Centre Fort Wayne, IN	March 02, 2011
Clay Aiken	Genesee Theatre Waukegan, IL	March 04, 2011
Clay Aiken	State Theatre Minneapolis, MN	March 05, 2011
Clay Aiken	Minglewood Hall Memphis, TN	March 07, 2011 Cancelled
Clay Aiken	Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie Grand Prairie, TX	March 08, 2011
Clay Aiken	Mesa Arts Center Mesa, AZ	March 10, 2011
Clay Aiken	The Warfield San Francisco, CA	March 12, 2011

There is a special date on Clay’s Tried and True tour, which would be Valentine’s Day, lucky fans in Houston, TX particularly the ladies, should be in for a special treat. (Wink! Rumor). For the guys, this would be a concert to take your woman to, and on this special day as well, it would be a Valentine’s day gift she would never forget.

 

Clay Aiken Links and Resources:

Clay Aiken’s Official Website: Clayaiken.com

Tried and True released from Decca: Tried and True CD+DVD (Amazon)

PBS Concert Special on DVD: Tried and True Live! (2010) (Amazon)

Album Review: Clay Aiken: Tried and True, Songs for You

 

 

By George Luker © Copyright 2011 Krule Music