Yes, I am fully aware it's been a whole 2 weeks with no Tunes. But what with starting a job with early mornings and late nights, looking for a flat in the lovely city of Bristol, and muttering curses under my breath at all the lucky people enjoying Glastonbury this weekend, I've hardly had a moment to catch my breath. First world problems, eh. Hopefully I can make it up to you with this cracking selection of tunes for the beginning of July (where has the year gone?!). A word of caution to this tale: these tracks may test you. They're all what I like to call 'growers' - you may not understand them, or even like them, on the first listen. But give the kids a chance. I promise you will be rewarded.
Tagged as 'SubSoul' on Soundcloud, this fresh sound is perfect to kick off this week's list. It's a little bit Chillwave, a little bit Electronica, a little bit gentle DubStep - rolled into an original track that will worm its way into your ears, brain, and trickle on down into your heart. The musical equivalent to a Summer breeze, Py's ethereal vocals are so high they border on being ultrasound. The gentle beats of the bass anchor it in the here and now and prevent it becoming a 'chipmunk track'. A tricky balance pulled off with aplomb. See if you agree.
Remixes of up-n-coming R&B star Miguel have been the project du jour - featuring at least twice before on TTT. This month, his song Adorn has been taken on by the marvellous Star Slinger, who's been a firm favourite of mine since I saw him live at Parklife fest 2 years ago. His signature is quirky Electro takes on even quirkier tracks - not for everybody - but this track seems to have mass-appeal. With a beat that makes you want to "shake it, baby", I defy anyone who can listen to this without their mood lifting. Happiness is just a click away...
The song of previous summers has been given a facelift for 2013. This updated version has got, wait for it, vocals - curtesy of Will Heard. His sex-smooth vocals are a perfect accompaniment for this sunshine anthem - which combines one of the catchiest sax riffs with the freshest of progressive house beats. An ideal track to take you from BBQ to street party. Enjoy those beats and burgers.
As R Kelly famously said: "after the show, there's the after-party...then take it to your room and f*ck somebody" [explicit version]. If it wasn't Ignition he was putting on for his lovemaking, it would have been this track by Dornik. Cheesy R&B 'lovemaking' tracks have been a makeover of late; they're subtler, dirtier, and way less cringe. Take Something About You as a case in point. With lyrics that wouldn't be out of place in an early 00's Usher song, the sophisticated Chillwave beat picks it up and drops it in a totally different headspace. Unlike putting on some Usher ("Usherrr"), the person you're enjoying some 'quality time' with won't entirely lose their erection. Win-win.
Here's an example of what a difference a beat makes. These songs sound like two totally different tracks - so much so that I found myself checking on my iPod what the song I was listening to was. The original 'alt-electro' bordering on Chillwave track is impressive, but the infectious beat detracts from the emotion of the lyrics. Take that away, and it becomes something totally different: a powerful, piano-accompanied, beautifully boned track - that rather than being less than the original, is, I think, so much more. Black Atlass is a new artist that I'll definitely be keeping a close eye on; watch this space.
It wouldn't be a Tune Tape Tuesday without some covers. Before I say anything, let me just say that the originals of these two tracks - Oblivion by Grimes, and Twice by Little Dragon - are two of my favourite songs ever. So for me to approve of another artist's cover is a big deal. Both Wilsen and Freeze-Tag have stripped the originals back to their bare bones - getting rid of the beat and concentrating purely on the vocals. In Wilsen's case, you might be forgiven for thinking this was simply an acoustic version by Grimes of her original track; the vocals are uncannily similar - both ethereally high, like a fairy who's inhaled helium. Freeze-Tag flips not only the sound but also the gender, slowing it right down and putting much more emphasis on the vocals than in the original. It takes some time to get used to, but I think it's a great fresh take on an original that, for me, never gets old.
This is honestly one of the most organic, and original, collaborations I've heard in some time. Feist (of 1,2,3,4) has teamed up with new guys Timber Timbre to create this beautiful track. As I stated at the beginning, this song is a grower - it might not catch you straight away, but give it a proper listen, and I think you'll agree it's a keeper. The artists' vocals work perfectly together, Feist providing the female dreaminess she's best at, Timber Timbre's masculine, earthy tones rooting it in genuine emotion. Oh and their harmonies are to die for. If you're feeling like an antidote to Summer euphoria, look no further than this thought-provoking track.
From the thought-full to the thought-less, this remix of NoNoNo's track is a mindless joy-fest. While you won't find any deep meaning here, by God you'll have a good time. There's something a little bit retro about this; perhaps it's the French accent on the vocals that remind me of c.2007 Yelle (aka my 'techtonique' phase), perhaps it's the feel-good beat that reminds me of a simpler time, who knows. It's best not to think too much - just stick it on and wave your arms about.
Shout out to a fellow Kiwi who's taking the NZ charts by storm. Lorde is a teen who's sound has mass-appeal. The infectious beat and catchy melody of her first single, Tennis Court, is slowly winging its way across the seas and will no doubt end up on Radio 1 in a matter of weeks. Make yourself sound super-cool by saying you found it first. Your friends won't think you're a hipster-dick at all.
From time to time, I like to see what people have done with a favourite song. Dreamin' by Feldberg is an old favourite I discovered about 3 years ago with the help of a Kitsuné Maison mixtape. This week I listened to what Kyte has done with the track...and I like. The original (which you can listen to here) is a beautiful bit of French electro-pop, which Kyte has honoured in his remix, adding a new dimension through a slow, groaning Dubstep backbeat and some electronic tintinnabulation (that's an amazingly pretentious word for 'tinkles') over the top. I like his style.
Cyril Hahn is the artist on everybody's lips at the moment (just look at that play count - only 4 days' worth!), and for good reason. His take on Destiny's Child's Say My Name was one of the most original and catchy remixes anyone had heard in a while. This week, he's released his own single: Perfect Form. It's undeniably Cyril, but I think lacks the mass-appeal of some of his previous work. He's got a few kinks to work out before he finds his own voice, but this track certainly witnesses him heading in the right direction. Keep at it Cyril! (always makes me think of Archer...)
I realise that for you Hip-Hop fans out there, TTT has been a little thin on the ground of late. Hopefully I can make it up to you by supplying you with two tracks that showcase where HipHop is heading in 2013. Candles by Jez Dior juxtaposes a 'Cali' style of rap with a female Indie-Folk chorus with, I think, a lot of success. Jez's sound is young and carefree, perfect for Summer listening, while the chorus provides a bit of sophistication to what otherwise would be quite an immature track. Rhythum's track is a return to the old-skool sound, combining a mid-90's sound with a Jay-Z sample. Far from being dated, Rhythum updates an old vibe for a 2013 audience. Now that's what I call fresh.
Finally, it's an old classic given a Electro facelift by the skilled hands of Bondax. There isn't a person on earth who doesn't love the original, and Bondax has been pretty faithful to the boys of Blackstreet, cutting it up and layering it over a broken Electronic beat. Twerk it, yo. Peace out.
Love,
Belle x
Monday
Wish List Mondays #33
So I've only gone and got myself a job. A real one, one that doesn't pay by the hour. I've even got my own desk and everything. I'm working in Fashion Marketing, which is pretty damn exciting, basically putting together Wish Lists on a daily basis - isn't that fun! So I guess congratulations, but also apologies are in order - I can't guarantee that Wish Lists and Tune Tapes will always be on time, but I'll certainly try my best and use my lunch hour to full effect. Ok, enough grovelling. Here's my (slightly shorter than usual) Wish List of the week, largely influenced by workwear (yep, I've turned into one of those girls).
2. Small Glass Earrings, Whistles, £25. Heart of Glass, here.
3. Aztec Embroidered Kimono, Topshop, £60. East meets West, here.
4. Arrow Tab Clutch Bag by Sophie Hulme, Matches, £400. Arrow to the Heart, here.
5. Daring Denim Flared Jeans, French Connection, £37. Dare to Flare, here.
6. 'Hotel Chic' Black Slip-Ons, Clarks, £65. Clarks hit the Mark, here.
7. Short Patterned Dress, H&M, £13. Short Stuff, here.
8. 'Isabella' Block Crocodile Heel Sandals, Kurt Geiger, £195. Crocodile Tears, here.
Love from the Working Girl,
Belle x
Wish List Mondays #32 - Barcelona Special
This time in a month, I'll be in Barcelona. I've never been, and I'm really excited. So excited that I'm already planning a wardrobe for when I get there. I'm envisaging sunny days spent meandering through the Old City, pedalling along the seafront in the evening, and drinks at rooftop bars under the stars. As usual, my style-spiration is, as always, Audrey Hepburn: cropped capri pants with chiffon shirts, cats-eye sunglasses, and when night falls, jewels to catch the candlelight. Sounds all very nice, doesn't it. If only I was as good as Holly Golightly at living a champagne lifestyle whilst on a lemonade budget...
Look 1:
1. Chiffon Blouse, H&M, £20. Buy it here.
2. Coral Heart-Print Pinafore Dress, River Island, £22. Buy it here.
4. Star Print Clutch Bag, Zara, £40. Buy it here.
5. Rotating Globe Adventure Watch, ASOS, £22. Buy it here.
8. 'Hampi' Caged Toed Sandals, Topshop, £26. Buy them here.
Look 2:
3. Black Tribal Print Dress, River Island, £15. Buy it here.
6. Black Shopper Bag, H&M, £25. Buy it here.
7. Leather Belt, H&M, £13. Buy it here.
9. 'Woo-Hoo' 2-Part Platforms, Topshop, £45.
Look 3:
1. Leto-Print Georgette Blouse by Preen, Matches, £538. Buy it here.
2. Limited Edition Vintage Look Jewel Earrings, ASOS, £10. Buy them here.
4. Moto Indigo Crop Skinny Jeans, Topshop, £35. Buy them here.
5. Structured Ribbon Boater Hat, Topshop, £22. Buy it here.
7. Cat Eye Sunglasses by Spitfire Helix, ASOS, £24. Buy them here.
9. Basic Messenger 'Grocery' Bag, Zara, £20. Buy it here.
10. 'Harriet' Tan Ostrich Ballet Flats, French Sole, £60 (half price!). Buy them here.
Look 4:
3. Féline Cotton Tshirt by Brian Lichtenberg, Net-a-Porter, £65. Buy it here.
6. Shorts with Beaded Embroidery, H&M, £30. Buy them here.
8. Pave Link Chain Bracelet by Love Rocks, ASOS, £35. Buy it here.
11. Rising Star Shoes by Charlotte Olympia, Matches, £895. Buy them here.
If anyone has any recommendations for things to do/see/eat in Barca, then you know where to holler.
Love,
Belle x
1. Chiffon Blouse, H&M, £20. Buy it here.
2. Coral Heart-Print Pinafore Dress, River Island, £22. Buy it here.
4. Star Print Clutch Bag, Zara, £40. Buy it here.
5. Rotating Globe Adventure Watch, ASOS, £22. Buy it here.
8. 'Hampi' Caged Toed Sandals, Topshop, £26. Buy them here.
Look 2:
3. Black Tribal Print Dress, River Island, £15. Buy it here.
6. Black Shopper Bag, H&M, £25. Buy it here.
7. Leather Belt, H&M, £13. Buy it here.
9. 'Woo-Hoo' 2-Part Platforms, Topshop, £45.
1. Leto-Print Georgette Blouse by Preen, Matches, £538. Buy it here.
2. Limited Edition Vintage Look Jewel Earrings, ASOS, £10. Buy them here.
4. Moto Indigo Crop Skinny Jeans, Topshop, £35. Buy them here.
5. Structured Ribbon Boater Hat, Topshop, £22. Buy it here.
7. Cat Eye Sunglasses by Spitfire Helix, ASOS, £24. Buy them here.
9. Basic Messenger 'Grocery' Bag, Zara, £20. Buy it here.
10. 'Harriet' Tan Ostrich Ballet Flats, French Sole, £60 (half price!). Buy them here.
Look 4:
3. Féline Cotton Tshirt by Brian Lichtenberg, Net-a-Porter, £65. Buy it here.
6. Shorts with Beaded Embroidery, H&M, £30. Buy them here.
8. Pave Link Chain Bracelet by Love Rocks, ASOS, £35. Buy it here.
11. Rising Star Shoes by Charlotte Olympia, Matches, £895. Buy them here.
If anyone has any recommendations for things to do/see/eat in Barca, then you know where to holler.
Love,
Belle x
Saturday
Tune Tape Tuesdays #31
This week I took a trip to the N-Dubs - that's 'street' for North-West London for those of you who aren't familiar with the origins of Tulisa Constavilopipoppopos's musical rise (and fall) from fame. Considering I'd never ventured further than Camden, this was obviously quite exciting. It also explains why this week's Tune Tape is a bit late. I'll try and make it up to you...
I've been singing Flume's praises for a while know - their mash up with Notorious BIG was a thing of genius - but this week they've teamed up with another Rap artist: T.Shirt. T.Shirt's tone is, admittedly, similar/inspired by Biggie, but Flume's uplifting, self-classified 'Flume-Step' (somewhere between Chillwave and Dubstep), really makes the track. Stick it on and get psyched.
If you're in a part of the country where the weather is less than Summery - i.e. here, in Bristol - then this is the song to stick on and pretend you're somewhere where the sun actually shines. If you're into soundscapes, this is a track for you - the beat rolls just like the waves, lulling you into a state of summery bliss. Sweet dreams from Robin Schultz.
If you're a fan of a) Progressive House, and b) Passenger, then this remix by Kygo is pretty much a dream come true. Amazingly, Kygo is 21. Which, and not to sound patronising at 22, is fucking impressive. He treats the track with a huge amount of respect and sensitivity that artists twice his age haven't grasped yet. If you're interested, he's also produced some pretty decent remixes of artists such as James Blake, Rihanna, and Matt Corby. Check out his SoundCloud page here.
Well it wouldn't be a Tune Tape without a cover, would it. This week it comes courtesy of Disclosure, who have successfully turned a song I can't stand into one that I love. Although they really haven't done anything radical in terms of tempo, style, or vocals, I inexplicably prefer this version to the Duke Dumont that's playing on the radio. Maybe I have a certain snobbery towards the Top 40. Maybe I just prefer Disclosure's vocal tones. Either way, it's this version, rather than D.D's that I'll be bouncing around to this Summer.
For this week's dose of Indie, I've chosen The Dig's track, I've Already Forgot Everything You Said. With it's muted riffs and dreamy vocals, you'd think it was just another song to get you down. But weirdly, it's kind of empowering. Perfect for those long, staring-out-the-window commutes to work.
Posted two years ago, this song is, admittedly, pretty old. But AMTRAC's an artist whose tracks are so strong that they feel brand spanking new. Even though he's flown pretty much under any radar over the last few years, he's amassed a collection of tracks to rival other electronic heavyweights such as Nicolas Jaar or Joy Orbison. And unlike many, most of his tracks are hits rather than misses. In this case, AMTRAC has taken on Metric's quirky Indie track, Blindness, turning it into a sophisticated Dubstep track that is neither filthy nor offensive - just pure class.
However, if filthy and offensive Dubstep is your thing, check out the newest track from one of the genre's reigning champions, Zeds Dead. As ever, the duo more than delivers on both quality and originality. Thankfully they've stayed away from the stereotypical (and now sorely dated) Dubstep nasty wobble, preferring something a little more subtle - though no less filthy. Get your [reformed] bass face on, because Zeds Dead, baby. Zeds Dead.
Here's another vintage track that I've only just discovered. When I was 16, I had a brief, but passionate, flirtation with French Electro. It seems I'm having a revival. Andy Carmichael's remix of Coeur de Pirate's track, Comme des Enfants makes you want to dance 'comme un enfant' (that's "like a child", for those of you that failed GSCE French) with it's unashamedly feel good Electro-Pop vibe. Stick it on and rewind the years.
So I thought we'd finish on something relaxing. This belongs in a genre that my friend has named 'ambientronica' - somewhere between a soundscape and Chillwave, but doing it's own thing. Similar in sound and vibe to Sizzlebird, Catching Flies manages to seamlessly blend chipmunk-high vocals with truly inspiring instrumentals. It shouldn't work, but it really does.
Y'all have a great weekend now!
Love,
Belle x
I've been singing Flume's praises for a while know - their mash up with Notorious BIG was a thing of genius - but this week they've teamed up with another Rap artist: T.Shirt. T.Shirt's tone is, admittedly, similar/inspired by Biggie, but Flume's uplifting, self-classified 'Flume-Step' (somewhere between Chillwave and Dubstep), really makes the track. Stick it on and get psyched.
If you're in a part of the country where the weather is less than Summery - i.e. here, in Bristol - then this is the song to stick on and pretend you're somewhere where the sun actually shines. If you're into soundscapes, this is a track for you - the beat rolls just like the waves, lulling you into a state of summery bliss. Sweet dreams from Robin Schultz.
If you're a fan of a) Progressive House, and b) Passenger, then this remix by Kygo is pretty much a dream come true. Amazingly, Kygo is 21. Which, and not to sound patronising at 22, is fucking impressive. He treats the track with a huge amount of respect and sensitivity that artists twice his age haven't grasped yet. If you're interested, he's also produced some pretty decent remixes of artists such as James Blake, Rihanna, and Matt Corby. Check out his SoundCloud page here.
Well it wouldn't be a Tune Tape without a cover, would it. This week it comes courtesy of Disclosure, who have successfully turned a song I can't stand into one that I love. Although they really haven't done anything radical in terms of tempo, style, or vocals, I inexplicably prefer this version to the Duke Dumont that's playing on the radio. Maybe I have a certain snobbery towards the Top 40. Maybe I just prefer Disclosure's vocal tones. Either way, it's this version, rather than D.D's that I'll be bouncing around to this Summer.
For this week's dose of Indie, I've chosen The Dig's track, I've Already Forgot Everything You Said. With it's muted riffs and dreamy vocals, you'd think it was just another song to get you down. But weirdly, it's kind of empowering. Perfect for those long, staring-out-the-window commutes to work.
Posted two years ago, this song is, admittedly, pretty old. But AMTRAC's an artist whose tracks are so strong that they feel brand spanking new. Even though he's flown pretty much under any radar over the last few years, he's amassed a collection of tracks to rival other electronic heavyweights such as Nicolas Jaar or Joy Orbison. And unlike many, most of his tracks are hits rather than misses. In this case, AMTRAC has taken on Metric's quirky Indie track, Blindness, turning it into a sophisticated Dubstep track that is neither filthy nor offensive - just pure class.
However, if filthy and offensive Dubstep is your thing, check out the newest track from one of the genre's reigning champions, Zeds Dead. As ever, the duo more than delivers on both quality and originality. Thankfully they've stayed away from the stereotypical (and now sorely dated) Dubstep nasty wobble, preferring something a little more subtle - though no less filthy. Get your [reformed] bass face on, because Zeds Dead, baby. Zeds Dead.
Here's another vintage track that I've only just discovered. When I was 16, I had a brief, but passionate, flirtation with French Electro. It seems I'm having a revival. Andy Carmichael's remix of Coeur de Pirate's track, Comme des Enfants makes you want to dance 'comme un enfant' (that's "like a child", for those of you that failed GSCE French) with it's unashamedly feel good Electro-Pop vibe. Stick it on and rewind the years.
So I thought we'd finish on something relaxing. This belongs in a genre that my friend has named 'ambientronica' - somewhere between a soundscape and Chillwave, but doing it's own thing. Similar in sound and vibe to Sizzlebird, Catching Flies manages to seamlessly blend chipmunk-high vocals with truly inspiring instrumentals. It shouldn't work, but it really does.
Y'all have a great weekend now!
Love,
Belle x
Thursday
Gatsby.
"Will you still love me, when I'm no longer young or beautiful" has been playing on a loop in my head over the last 24 hours. The song, sung by the irreverent Lana del Rey, features on the achingly on-trend soundtrack of The Great Gatsby, and essentially provides the theme tune for the entire film. A lot of people have a problem with the likes of such contemporary heavyweights (Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Florence & The Machine, et al) providing the accompaniment for a film set nearly a century ago. But this is a film by Baz Luhrman. The man who set Romeo & Juliet in a Latino suburb of Miami. Who had a turn-of-the-century prostitute singing Marilyn's Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend whilst gyrating on a swing. His whole style is about mixing the old with the new; breathing new life into familiar narratives. In this way, Gatsby has two feet firmly planted nearly a century apart: it captures in appearance and essence the spirit of the 'roaring 20s', whilst emphasising the fact that this is a 21st century film through the soundtrack and cinematography (most noticeably the now-seemingly customary release of films in 3D).
In terms of whether the film stays true to F Scott Fitzgerald's venerated novel, I have something to confess: I've never read the book. Boo, Hiss, I know. It's on my to-do list. From what reviews I've read, the page-to-screen adaptation is pretty faithful, as far as plot lines go. Character-wise, people have problems. The choice of Carey Mulligan to play Daisy was criticised, claiming she was not as pretty as readers had imagined. DiCaprio's performance was "as deep as spilt champagne", according to one critic, "forgettable" by another. Certainly, Gatsby is no Blood Diamond, Revolutionary Road, or other DiCaprio films that required a high degree of 'serious acting'. This is not some kind of gritty drama. Gatsby, like the 20s itself, was all glitz and glamour; a world of appearance and illusion, of deception and duplicity. It wasn't serious because it refused to be so. It was a time of rebellious freedom, a decade that rejected the disillusionment of the post-War hangover, and the austerity of pre-War social customs, to create a dreamlike bubble of denial. Daisy is the epitome of the shallow woman: vacuous and self-centred, incapable of taking responsibility for her actions, a coward to the extreme. Mulligan's watery, wide-eyed beauty is certainly easy on the eye, but you are left questioning what on earth Gatsby saw in her. Perhaps we live in a different age. Perhaps strength and independence are now more celebrated qualities for women compared with those of the 20s. For me, it wasn't the casting of Carey Mulligan as Daisy that was the problem. Nor the choice of Toby Macguire as the narrator Nick Carraway - an actor who divides opinion, to say the least. I felt DiCaprio was all wrong. He is just too good an actor. It was like you could see him struggling to play what is, essentially, the attitude of a love-sick adolescent in the puffed-up body of a corporate pretender. He's also too old. Gone is the sparkle of youth, the un-lined face, the slim build of man who has just popped out of his twenties. As an older actor, the one thing he does nail is the confidence and self-assurity of Gatsby. What Nick Carraway describes as that "extraordinary gift for hope" - that everything will be, has to be, alright in the end.
Everyone wishes they knew a Noah in The Notebook. A man who loves you so much that he'd build your dream house for you. A man you can respect. Gatsby essentially does the same, yet we feel only pity and contempt towards his pathetic attempts to woo another man's wilted flower through his parties at his grand house situated just across the bay from hers. Why is that? Is it because we feel he's being whipped by this superficial sissy? Is it all just a bit, well, sad? Perhaps the difference between these two romances is that we all know a Gatsby-type. [Usually] young lads who develop acute tunnel-vision for a nice-but-not-interested girl, and subsequently devote every waking hour to her comfort and happiness. Certainly, this seems to be something of a rite of passage for men - but to see it happening to a man in his 30s is not cute, it's tragic (and not in a Shakespearean way).
So the question still stands: "Will you still love me when I'm no longer young and beautiful?" Will you still love Gatsby when the music is dated, and the scenes look tacky? Probably not. But fuck, it sure looks good now.
Love,
Belle x
Tuesday
Wish List Mondays #31
Arright my luvver? Development of the week: I have moved out of Surrey. Yes, that was quick. Speedy Gonzales quick. For at least this week, if not this month, I am residing in the beautiful city of Bristol - with the premise of landing a job. Which is why this Wish List is coming to you a day late - yesterday was spent entirely on buses, day tripping it over to the little town of Street, Somerset. By the time I got back, the sun was setting over Clifton's suspension bridge:
Anyway, back to the Wish List. On my expedition through the interweb this week, I came across this 'totes amaze' sleeping bag:
 |
| (unforch not my photo) |
IT'S A SHARK!
Definitely one to pull out for festival season. Imagine the fun. Imagine it. Buy it from Urban Outfitters here.
As amazing as this is, hopping down the High Street in this bad boy might prove hazardous for the somewhat less coordinated of us (me). So I've put together a Wish List of slightly more conventional - but no less stylish - pieces for you to covet. Enjoy.
1. 'Ne Jamais Tomber Amoureuse d'une Rock Star' Embellished T-Shirt, Zara, £20. Sound advice, here.
2. Red Strappy Cami Top, Topshop, £18. Top of the shops, here.
3. Oversized Black Framed Halo Madonna Tshirt by Givenchy, SSense, $730. Hail Mary, here.
4. Stripe-Print Shorts by Sea NY, Matches, £265. Hello Sailor, here.
5. Beetlejuice Black & White Striped Jeans, Mango, £35. Don't matter if you're Black or White, here.
6. White Stretch Shorts, H&M, £8. All-white on the night, here.
7. ZZ D-Frame Sunglasses by Céline, Matches, £220. Frame-by-Frame, here.
8. Oversized Willow Clutch in Black, Mulberry, £795. Berry nice, here.
9. Red Suede Sandal with Ankle Strap, Zara, £70. Seeing red, here.
10. Gold Plated Necklace, Gogo Philip, £17. Gogo Dancing, here.
11. Cut Out Mickey Mouse Ring by Gogo Philip, ASOS, £15. Taking the Mickey, here.
12. Black Leather & Suede Mix Sneaker, Mulberry, £425. Don't be suede, here.
Summer love,
Belle x
Wednesday
Tune Tape Tuesdays #30
As you may have read last week, this Tune Tape is the first to be broadcast from Farnham, Surrey. To explain what this means, I've decided to put together a little map.
That's right. Farnham is so uncool I've listed it in Comic Sans MS. Ouch. As you might imagine, being in a town where the median age is dead can start to do things to your head (high five for rhyming), which is why this week's Tune Tape is a little thin on the ground compared with last week's colossus of nigh on 30 tracks. But hey, we roll with the punches. This week, I've decided to do things a little differently. Instead of my usual one paragraph essay on tracks, I've decided to break it down and concentrate on a smaller selection of tracks - to which a little summary will accompany. Hopefully a smaller selection of tracks will make it easier for you to load the page - I know some of your internet machines have been having shit fits trying to handle that much Soundcloud at once. As always - feedback, feedback, feedback, por favor!
1. This Charming Man (Luis Leon Bootleck) - The Smiths
Being a massive fan of The Smiths (yet another band to come out of Manchester - holler), I'm always weary of any remixes of their tracks - especially "the classics", of which This Charming Man is arguably the best known. Anyone who has tried to turn a Smiths song into filthy Dubstep, trashy EuroHouse or an Electro banger has - in my eyes - failed miserably. Then along came this track, which, with its slow crescendo and delicate beat, holds the Smiths' hand into the world of Progressive House. And what a track it makes! The lyrics aren't messed with and still provide the focus of the track, while a toned-down house beat accompanies the song, elongating it into something that can be enjoyed for several minutes, rather than the 2:45 of the original. That's got to be a win.
2. Farah Fawcett Hair (feat. André 3000) - Capital Cities
Last month, André 3000 released his joint cover with Beyoncé of Amy Winehouse's Back to Black, which featured pretty prominently on The Great Gatsby soundtrack. Although it was a far cry from his Ms Jackson heyday, it's great to hear his unmistakable gravelly growl again - this month in collaboration with Capital Cities. Farah Fawcett Hair is following the new trend of 'copy+paste' established by artist such as The Avalanches, Clean Bandit, and Chinese Man. Essentially, tracks are made up of a host of samples taken from retro films, advertisements, turn-of-the-last-century records...you get the picture. If those, plus the crazy-happy chorus isn't enough for you, the input of André 3000 takes it to another level of awesome.
3. Get Lucky (Daft Punk Cover) - San Cisco
Speaking of covers...here's San Cisco covering that track that you're probably sick of hearing: Get Lucky. While Daughter's take on the track was, in my opinion, down right depressing, San Cisco essentially makes an acoustic version of the original. The tempo's pretty similar, it features an electric guitar in the chorus, but I reckon (say it quietly) the vocals are better than Pharell's. In a purely musical sense of the word, of course. Regardless, this cover made me fall in love with the track all over again - hopefully it can do the same for you.
4. Dancing in September Mashup - Troika
I'm always a little weary of Mashups. In my experience, a vast amount are tacky and amateurish, only dealing with the most overplayed of the year's chart crap. However, when they're good, they're great. Troika's Dancing in September is the perfect example of when a Mashup gets it right. He manages to mix together the least cringe, but still well known, chart toppers with a host of lesser known tracks to create one hell of a guilty pleasure. This song demands fist pumps, and for the first time in your life, you would be totally validated. Touché, Mr Troika - I tip my (flat) cap to you.
5. Somethin' Bout You - Follow Me
Another week, another track from Follow Me - these dudes are no strangers to Tune Tape Tuesdays. If you're new here, Follow Me likes taking signature tracks from the 90's (TLC, Brandy, etc) and turning it into some incredible House. This week is no different. According to their song page, they heard a radio broadcast from 1996, and decided to turn it into something new - ie. THIS. With the beat of progressive house, but lacking in the minutes, this is perfect to stick on and get people moving.
6. Betwixt - OMN
Here's one to divide opinions. This is what my mother likes to call "repetitive crap". Agreed, there is an element of repetitiveness, but only if that's what you're concentrating on. I guess it depends what you use your music for; if it's purpose is to fill the silence whilst you do your work - this song is perfect. If you prefer to put the music in the front seat, then you might become weary of this track after a few plays. Personally, I think it's a good crack at Chillwave - but it's hardly breaking any boundaries.
7. Art & a Wife - Rah Rah
This week we're signing off with a video. Not because it's particularly mind-blowing, but because Rah Rah doesn't currently have a Soundcloud account (and uploading it myself is against copyright, apparently). The VT features a couple of remote-control cars being chased by a pack of dogs in a park. If you like those 'animals do the funniest things' YouTubes, then this might be for you. However random, the video suits the band's playful sound. With a vibe similar to DataRock in the mid-00's, a sound somewhere between The Drums and the Courteneers, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics that wouldn't feel out of place in a Franz Ferdinand track, Rah Rah sets itself squarely in the Indie tradition. With a toe-tapping beat and catchy riffs, this track is perfect for skipping along to under the warm Summer sun - which reminds me, what am I doing inside?
Love,
Belle x
1. This Charming Man (Luis Leon Bootleck) - The Smiths
Being a massive fan of The Smiths (yet another band to come out of Manchester - holler), I'm always weary of any remixes of their tracks - especially "the classics", of which This Charming Man is arguably the best known. Anyone who has tried to turn a Smiths song into filthy Dubstep, trashy EuroHouse or an Electro banger has - in my eyes - failed miserably. Then along came this track, which, with its slow crescendo and delicate beat, holds the Smiths' hand into the world of Progressive House. And what a track it makes! The lyrics aren't messed with and still provide the focus of the track, while a toned-down house beat accompanies the song, elongating it into something that can be enjoyed for several minutes, rather than the 2:45 of the original. That's got to be a win.
2. Farah Fawcett Hair (feat. André 3000) - Capital Cities
Last month, André 3000 released his joint cover with Beyoncé of Amy Winehouse's Back to Black, which featured pretty prominently on The Great Gatsby soundtrack. Although it was a far cry from his Ms Jackson heyday, it's great to hear his unmistakable gravelly growl again - this month in collaboration with Capital Cities. Farah Fawcett Hair is following the new trend of 'copy+paste' established by artist such as The Avalanches, Clean Bandit, and Chinese Man. Essentially, tracks are made up of a host of samples taken from retro films, advertisements, turn-of-the-last-century records...you get the picture. If those, plus the crazy-happy chorus isn't enough for you, the input of André 3000 takes it to another level of awesome.
3. Get Lucky (Daft Punk Cover) - San Cisco
Speaking of covers...here's San Cisco covering that track that you're probably sick of hearing: Get Lucky. While Daughter's take on the track was, in my opinion, down right depressing, San Cisco essentially makes an acoustic version of the original. The tempo's pretty similar, it features an electric guitar in the chorus, but I reckon (say it quietly) the vocals are better than Pharell's. In a purely musical sense of the word, of course. Regardless, this cover made me fall in love with the track all over again - hopefully it can do the same for you.
4. Dancing in September Mashup - Troika
I'm always a little weary of Mashups. In my experience, a vast amount are tacky and amateurish, only dealing with the most overplayed of the year's chart crap. However, when they're good, they're great. Troika's Dancing in September is the perfect example of when a Mashup gets it right. He manages to mix together the least cringe, but still well known, chart toppers with a host of lesser known tracks to create one hell of a guilty pleasure. This song demands fist pumps, and for the first time in your life, you would be totally validated. Touché, Mr Troika - I tip my (flat) cap to you.
5. Somethin' Bout You - Follow Me
Another week, another track from Follow Me - these dudes are no strangers to Tune Tape Tuesdays. If you're new here, Follow Me likes taking signature tracks from the 90's (TLC, Brandy, etc) and turning it into some incredible House. This week is no different. According to their song page, they heard a radio broadcast from 1996, and decided to turn it into something new - ie. THIS. With the beat of progressive house, but lacking in the minutes, this is perfect to stick on and get people moving.
6. Betwixt - OMN
Here's one to divide opinions. This is what my mother likes to call "repetitive crap". Agreed, there is an element of repetitiveness, but only if that's what you're concentrating on. I guess it depends what you use your music for; if it's purpose is to fill the silence whilst you do your work - this song is perfect. If you prefer to put the music in the front seat, then you might become weary of this track after a few plays. Personally, I think it's a good crack at Chillwave - but it's hardly breaking any boundaries.
7. Art & a Wife - Rah Rah
Love,
Belle x
Tuesday
Wish List Mondays #30
Yeah, yeah, yeah. It's another late Wish List. Cry me a river. Some people have JOB INTERVIEWS to attend. Which got me thinking: seeing as I'm now technically an actual grown-up, with a degree and everything, I'm going to need a bit of a wardrobe maturation. Unfortunately, slogan Tees and shiny leggings don't quite cut it in the boardroom. In light of this, I thought I'd put together three different, but interview-appropriate, outfits to inspire your move into the world of industry. Welcome to the party, kids. Three things to remember when meeting your potential future boss/subordinates (however you look at it):
1. Have a gimmick. I don't mean a weird accent, or a limp. Wear something different; a patterned shirt, bold shoes, or a statement necklace. Not only is it a conversation starter, it will make sure you're remembered out of a sea of corporate suits. Win.
2. Tie your hair up. There is nothing more annoying, distracting, and off-putting than someone nervously fiddling with their split ends. I'm totally guilty of doing this when it's down, so for God's sake, do yourself a favour and keep your hair away from your hands. It also shows off your beautiful, expressive, and honest (?) face.
3. Unless your auditioning for a job as a hooker, tone down the makeup. No one wants to hire a Kardashian.
Alright, enough preaching. Time for some FASHION.
LOOK 1.
1. 'Cecila' Venice Swirl-Print Shirt by Erdem, Matches, £550. Give it a swirl, here.
2. Black Geek-Chic Glasses by John Lennon, Glasses Direct, £125. Through the looking-glass, here.
3. 'Heroine' Structured Leather Bag by Alexander McQueen, Matches, £1,595. Heroine addict, here.
4. Harem Tailored Trousers by Sportmax, Matches, £125. Wear the trousers, here.
5. Horse Necklace by Bill Skinner, ASOS, £135. Horsing around, here.
6. Nail Polish in Russian Roulette by Essie, Superdrug, £8. Red or Dead, here.
7. Hi Strap Sandals by UNIQUE, Topshop, £115. Strap on, here.
LOOK 2.
1. Sky Blue V-Neck Shirt, Zara, £23. Sky's the limit, here.
2. Slim Runway Orange Strap Watch by Michael Kors, ASOS, £145. The future's orange, here.
3. Red Metal T-Bar Sandals, River Island, £30. Heavy metal, here.
4. 'Mason' Navy Flared Skirt, Reiss, £89. In the navy, here.
5. 'Designer' Satchel in Green/Navy, The Cambridge Satchel Company, £133. Satchel good look, here.
LOOK 3.
1. Basic Blazer in Navy, Zara, £50. Blazer trail, here.
2. Floral Cutout Playsuit, Topshop, £50. Cut it out, here.
3. Jet Set Travel Medium Saffiano Tote by Michael Kors, Selfridges, £240. Tote-al Recall, here.
4. Flamingo Bangle in Light Pink, Anna Lou of London, £38. Flaming go, here.
5. French 75 Suede Stiletto in Pink, Whistles, £125. Pink to make the boys wink, here.
Good luck with the job hunt mes belles!
Love,
Belle x
1. Have a gimmick. I don't mean a weird accent, or a limp. Wear something different; a patterned shirt, bold shoes, or a statement necklace. Not only is it a conversation starter, it will make sure you're remembered out of a sea of corporate suits. Win.
2. Tie your hair up. There is nothing more annoying, distracting, and off-putting than someone nervously fiddling with their split ends. I'm totally guilty of doing this when it's down, so for God's sake, do yourself a favour and keep your hair away from your hands. It also shows off your beautiful, expressive, and honest (?) face.
3. Unless your auditioning for a job as a hooker, tone down the makeup. No one wants to hire a Kardashian.
Alright, enough preaching. Time for some FASHION.
LOOK 1.
2. Black Geek-Chic Glasses by John Lennon, Glasses Direct, £125. Through the looking-glass, here.
3. 'Heroine' Structured Leather Bag by Alexander McQueen, Matches, £1,595. Heroine addict, here.
4. Harem Tailored Trousers by Sportmax, Matches, £125. Wear the trousers, here.
5. Horse Necklace by Bill Skinner, ASOS, £135. Horsing around, here.
6. Nail Polish in Russian Roulette by Essie, Superdrug, £8. Red or Dead, here.
7. Hi Strap Sandals by UNIQUE, Topshop, £115. Strap on, here.
LOOK 2.
2. Slim Runway Orange Strap Watch by Michael Kors, ASOS, £145. The future's orange, here.
3. Red Metal T-Bar Sandals, River Island, £30. Heavy metal, here.
4. 'Mason' Navy Flared Skirt, Reiss, £89. In the navy, here.
5. 'Designer' Satchel in Green/Navy, The Cambridge Satchel Company, £133. Satchel good look, here.
LOOK 3.
2. Floral Cutout Playsuit, Topshop, £50. Cut it out, here.
3. Jet Set Travel Medium Saffiano Tote by Michael Kors, Selfridges, £240. Tote-al Recall, here.
4. Flamingo Bangle in Light Pink, Anna Lou of London, £38. Flaming go, here.
5. French 75 Suede Stiletto in Pink, Whistles, £125. Pink to make the boys wink, here.
Good luck with the job hunt mes belles!
Love,
Belle x
Sunday
Flat 4, Manchester.
When I was six, I broke my arm really badly. I was playing on the monkey bars at school, slipped, and fell on my straightened arm, making the bones overlap. Gruesome, I know. I had to have a cast put on it for 3 months. The cast was blue, and people at school wrote messages in marker pens of 'get well soon's and cartoon faces. I wore it like a trophy; like a symbol of the good and the bad. Finally, the day came for it to be removed. Most kids who break a limb count down to this day - the day when they're 'back to normal'. Not me, I cried and screamed. I didn't want my cast to be removed, because, psychologically, it was like cutting off a part of myself. Bit of a random story, I hear you say. Bear with, there is a point.
Today I officially moved out of my flat in Manchester. My parents had kindly driven all the way up from Surrey to cart my things back home, and by God did I give them a hard time. I didn't want them touching my stuff. I got annoyed at them asking whether or not they needed to take X or Y. They cleaned the entire kitchen and I only just managed to spit a thank you at them. Why was I being such a bitch? Because my flat had become like my cast: it had become such a part of me, that losing it was physically painful. Like the scribbles of classmates on my cast, my flat played host to countless friends, family, and loves. Some of the happiest, and the saddest, times of my life had occurred within its walls. I learned the news of my grandmother's passing sitting on the sofa, of the engagement of one of my best friends in bed at 3 in the morning. When I was poor, I ate packet noodles in the kitchen. When I had money, I had friends over for huge suppers and parties. I laughed, and I cried, in every room - and I remember every time with equal clarity. I filled the walls with memories - literally, with photos and paintings, and metaphorically, with everything that happened to me whilst I was there. Admittedly, sometimes these memories got too much. When I broke up with my boyfriend, I removed every photo from the walls that reminded me of him - with not much success, as the memories of the times he was there still haunted the place. When I was alone, I filled the space with music, with words, and when neither helped, with the sound of typing - I started this blog sitting on my bed. So I guess the question is, what happens when you move on? I think the answer is in there: you move on.
When my cast was taken off, the doctor asked me if I wanted to keep it. Strangely enough, although the ordeal had been so dramatic, I said no. I think I didn't want to be reminded of something that I'd lost. I wanted to move on. Perhaps I knew that there would be other broken bones, other ways of keeping memories of friendships and good wishes alive - I didn't have to keep a physical representation of them with me forever. The point is, I can't be a Van Wilder. I couldn't live in that flat forever, just as I couldn't keep repeating the final year of university because I'm scared of what comes next. There will be other flats, other houses, other homes, that I will fill with new memories, new people. However scary it is, there will always be a next chapter. Even death, as my grandmother used to say, is the start of something new.
Today I arrived back at home. Downstairs are 8 bags of clothes, books, and DVDs that are going to fill someone else's home. I just finished putting together a collage of photos and pictures - none of which feature times in my old flat. Because we can't live in the past forever. Sometimes we just have to take a deep breath, bite the bullet, and have faith that more good times are gonna come.
Love,
Belle x
R.I.P Flat 4. Here are your best bits.
Today I officially moved out of my flat in Manchester. My parents had kindly driven all the way up from Surrey to cart my things back home, and by God did I give them a hard time. I didn't want them touching my stuff. I got annoyed at them asking whether or not they needed to take X or Y. They cleaned the entire kitchen and I only just managed to spit a thank you at them. Why was I being such a bitch? Because my flat had become like my cast: it had become such a part of me, that losing it was physically painful. Like the scribbles of classmates on my cast, my flat played host to countless friends, family, and loves. Some of the happiest, and the saddest, times of my life had occurred within its walls. I learned the news of my grandmother's passing sitting on the sofa, of the engagement of one of my best friends in bed at 3 in the morning. When I was poor, I ate packet noodles in the kitchen. When I had money, I had friends over for huge suppers and parties. I laughed, and I cried, in every room - and I remember every time with equal clarity. I filled the walls with memories - literally, with photos and paintings, and metaphorically, with everything that happened to me whilst I was there. Admittedly, sometimes these memories got too much. When I broke up with my boyfriend, I removed every photo from the walls that reminded me of him - with not much success, as the memories of the times he was there still haunted the place. When I was alone, I filled the space with music, with words, and when neither helped, with the sound of typing - I started this blog sitting on my bed. So I guess the question is, what happens when you move on? I think the answer is in there: you move on.
When my cast was taken off, the doctor asked me if I wanted to keep it. Strangely enough, although the ordeal had been so dramatic, I said no. I think I didn't want to be reminded of something that I'd lost. I wanted to move on. Perhaps I knew that there would be other broken bones, other ways of keeping memories of friendships and good wishes alive - I didn't have to keep a physical representation of them with me forever. The point is, I can't be a Van Wilder. I couldn't live in that flat forever, just as I couldn't keep repeating the final year of university because I'm scared of what comes next. There will be other flats, other houses, other homes, that I will fill with new memories, new people. However scary it is, there will always be a next chapter. Even death, as my grandmother used to say, is the start of something new.
Today I arrived back at home. Downstairs are 8 bags of clothes, books, and DVDs that are going to fill someone else's home. I just finished putting together a collage of photos and pictures - none of which feature times in my old flat. Because we can't live in the past forever. Sometimes we just have to take a deep breath, bite the bullet, and have faith that more good times are gonna come.
Love,
Belle x
R.I.P Flat 4. Here are your best bits.
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