#MUSIC VIDEO REVIEW

[decibeldissect]

Eminem's Houdini

Eminem's newest track Houdini, the first from his new and highly speculated LAST album "The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)" has made waves in both the rap scene and his personal career. The song has landed iTunes No. 1 in over 17 countries, debuted at #3 on Global Spotify Charts with 7.85 M streams and at #4 on US Charts with over 2.97 M streams. This is Eminem's biggest success in one-day streams and certaintly left listeners anxious for the album in its entirety set to release this summer.

However, as with most Eminem songs since his return from hiatus in 2009, there is of course a deeper meaning. Music videos are often overlooked in the days of streaming services both by listeners and artists themselves - but the Houdini music video currently sitting at 22 million views is vital to understanding the real message.

Of course, it's no secret that the Eminem we know of today has had several transformations over the past 30 years with some even identifying these changes as his "eras". Still, whether you think of him as Slim Shady, Eminem, or simply Marshall Mathers, you know that he has always taken his music game to the next level - and Houdini is certainly NOT an outlier.

The music video opens with Eminem in a very Batman-esque bedroom receiving a video call from none other than Dr. Dre himself (dressed as a rather convincing Professor X) while a sample of Without Me plays in the background. A portal from 2002 has been opened and Slim Shady, blond buzzcut intact, has stepped into the ultra-modern - and hypersensitive - world of 2024. Eminem (operating as the superhero Rap Boy) immediately springs into action. The video then cuts to the rapid-fire spread of the news, comic book-style text bubbles appearing over faces both unrecognizable and VERY familiar with Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, and even the Pope all asking the very same question. "Guess who's back?"

We then see both Eminem and Slim Shady next to each other and while it's nice to see that Eminem has aged well (seriously the blond buzzcut is all he needed. Who is his plastic surgeon??) it's very clear this is not a welcome reunion. This video has it all - the sampling of many nostalgic songs of his own and of course Steve Miller Band's Abracadabra, Dre and Eminem cruising in a yellow Lambo (still donning their superhero garb), and 2002 Eminem wreaking havoc in 2024 in an attempt to cancel the modern Eminem. It's well known that Eminem, both past and present, takes delight in a little shock factor and has always thought that society was too sensitive. However, throughout both battles (one in the superhero universe on a city rooftop and one taking place in a liminal space) one thing is very clear - Eminem has changed.

The video climaxes when Eminem (2024) and Slim Shady (2002) both land a punch and seemingly fuse and create a new monster. Eminem returns to the Lambo with his facial hair well intact and a new blond cut as well. We see a cameo from Pete Davidson when the merged Eminems get too out of hand for Dre to handle and even from his very own kids. While this video holds the level of cinematography required to make a splash in 2024 and the Eminem brand humor we've grown to love, it also contemplates a deeper question - How do you deal with problematic behaviors from your past? There's a lot to be said for the behavior of Marshall Mathers throughout his career and I truly think the media has done its due diligence. Still, this video makes it clear you can't outrun your past. There will always be someone (or in Eminem's case, thousands) waiting in the wings to bring it back to light. In an age where no one is safe from their past actions, no matter how much time has passed, there is no escaping - there is only reconciliation. At the end of the video, we see the visualization of what every person who has a toxic past has to go through to heal. You can't destroy who you used to be. You have to learn acceptance and build upon your past. Eminem is no stranger to this, having recently celebrated 16 years of sobriety, and he's certainly no stranger to having his past thrown in his face. He does what he's always done - says "Fuck you" to anyone and anything who stands in his way. At the end of the day, Eminem's existence is still widely controversial but trust me when I say that whether this is his last album or not he has already broken his own records and will continue to do so because of his faith in himself and what he's built. There's nothing harder than letting go of the past (except for maybe watching 2024 Eminem try to keep up with 2002 Slim Shady's moves - turns out not even Eminem is excluded from aging knees).

Love him or hate him, Eminem has proven that he's not playing games. His use of modern technology mixed with his never-ending lyrical genius will leave a significant portion of the world begging for more every time. All I can hope for is a farewell tour when it finally does come to a halt.

[jasminesreview]

yes, and? - Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande's "Yes, And?" music video was a stroke of genius, challenging perceptions of celebrity culture with playful wit and insight. The opening scene cleverly tackled the notion of celebrities as mere entities for public consumption, highlighting the absurdity of expecting them to debunk every internet rumor.

One standout moment was when a critic delivered the iconic line, "I read it on the internet, so it must be true," serving as a cheeky reminder to fans to take online gossip with a grain of salt. The video's portrayal of Ariana being met with adoration from a crowd further emphasized the power dynamics at play in celebrity fandom.

The incorporation of statues as symbolic representations of Ariana's artistry was a masterstroke, asserting her ownership of her creative expression. The nods to her past eras added a nostalgic touch, allowing fans a brief chance to reminisce about the “old Ari” they desperately miss (cue the sad violin) and showing them a glimpse into the evolution of her persona.

The attention to detail in the choreography was mesmerizing, showcasing Ariana's precision and control. Moments like the graceful foot slide exuded a sense of tranquility amidst the energetic performance.

The deliberate changes in lighting throughout the video signified a shift in tone, mirroring the intensity of Ariana's artistic expression. The warm color palette evoked a sense of passion and depth. Things were getting heated!

A subtle theme emerged of transitioning from dislike to admiration, accompanied by a period of tension and resistance. Ariana's calm composure throughout the video captivated me. It highlighted her unwavering confidence in both herself and her music, affirming her belief in her enduring impact, irrespective of critics' perceptions or judgments.

The final scene, where critics were seen leaving ecstatically, brought the narrative full circle, reinforcing the message of resilience and self-assurance. It was a powerful statement from Ariana, asserting her control over her own narrative and artistic vision.

In summary, "Yes, And?" was a triumph of creativity, signaling a bold new chapter in Ariana Grande's Eternal Sunshine era. She wasn't afraid to use her craft to set the record straight and assert her boundaries, and I was here for that energy! Don’t play on her name!

[avomagazine]

Momoiro Clover Z’s “MONONOFU NIPPON”: a rallying cry to bring Japan’s idol culture to the world

This year they are celebrating their 15th anniversary as an idol group: Momoiro Clover Z, commonly abbreviated as MCZ or Momoclo. That this fact will be celebrated in a big way should come as no surprise. The idol group unveiled the music video for their latest single MONONOFU NIPPON, featuring acclaimed rock ‘n’ roll guitarist Tomoyasu Hotei (also known simply as HOTEI).  Find the article here.

[laureezyf]

Unveiling Kenya's Neo-Soul Power Duo, Watendawili

[kaczoartreviews]

My Soul's Echo Collides with OTYKEN's PHENOMENON

reading time: 4 min.

“Hello, my friend, you are here with us again!”

Amidst the seemingly endless days of lockdown, my quest for new folktronica music led me on an unexpected journey to the remote landscapes of Siberia. In the depths of the internet, I stumbled upon a hidden gem – an indigenous band from Krasnoyarsk Krai, a place not widely known for its musical exports. Little did I know that this encounter would mark the beginning of a captivating sonic exploration. 

Meet OTYKEN, the band whose name had me tongue-tied at first but soon had me tapping my feet to their infectious beats. They're like the ultimate mixologists, blending traditional Siberian vibes with futuristic electronic sounds to create what can only be described as folktronica magic. And get this - they don't just stop at the tunes. Throughout their musical journey, OTYKEN sprinkles in traditional instruments, lyrics in languages you probably haven't even heard of (Khakass, Chulymian, Dolganian, and Russian - yeah, they have long repertoire), making every listen a cultural adventure. But wait, there's more! Let's rewind to the origins of this musical phenomenon. The Museum of Ethnography in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia, where curious visitors, especially those globe-trotting foreigners, couldn't get enough of ethnic tunes. Cue Andrey Medonos, the museum's director, a true Siberian native with roots as deep as the Taiga. He's the brains behind the operation, the one who saw the potential to turn museum-goers into groove-seekers. And here's the twist - most of the band members haven't exactly spent their lives in music conservatories honing their craft. Nope, they're just a bunch of creative souls who let their instincts guide them to crafting the catchiest tunes you'll ever hear.

So before we dive into dissecting their music, let's take a moment to appreciate what OTYKEN stands for. Their name isn't just a random assortment of letters; oh no, it's a symbol of power, a sacred spot where even the fiercest warriors lay down their swords. With OTYKEN, it's not just about the music - it's about embarking on a sonic journey to a holy place where the beats are as potent as the magic in the air.

Flashback to one year ago, February 24th, when the music scene was electrified by the arrival of "PHENOMENON," the band's latest album. Among its 12 tracks, the opener, "Phenomenon," emerged as a standout, luring me with its captivating blend of melodies and rhythms. As I surrendered to its spell, I found myself transported to distant realms, my ears rejoicing in the sheer delight of their musical fusion. Despite the language barrier and my limited knowledge of Siberian culture, their music spoke to me on a deeper level. It's as if they tapped into the wisdom of nature itself, with lyrics like "heal with nature – it heals better than a shaman" from the song "Genesis" resonating profoundly, especially during the lockdown when the outdoors felt like a distant dream. Their music became my refuge, offering solace and serenity in times of longing and uncertainty. So, as I immersed myself in their sonic landscape, yearning for what I couldn't have, I found solace in their enchanting melodies, each note a testament to the transcendent power of music to soothe the soul.

“In the toughest of times, we come to You”

The music wraps around me like a warm embrace, refusing to let go, while the lead singer's voice holds me captivated, akin to a skilled magician entrancing their audience. Every frame of the music video is a masterpiece, meticulously designed to flow seamlessly with the music's rhythm. Unexpected shifts in tempo surprise and delight, introducing elements like traditional throat singing, a gem foreign to many Western ears. Interestingly, this unique vocal talent is the only member of OTYKEN with formal musical training, a true multi-instrumentalist who orchestrates a symphony of sounds under the guidance of their producer, Andrey Medonos.

In the video, we're treated to captivating close-up shots of traditional instruments being expertly played, seamlessly intertwined with breathtaking aerial views showcasing the vast beauty of the Siberian wilderness. The band members move with a graceful fluidity, their motions harmonizing perfectly with the rhythmic pulse of the music. Watching them, I can't help but feel the urge to join in and dance along in the background. The focus on the band allows ample time to admire their attire, a vital aspect of OTYKEN's identity and their representation. Their clothing draws from various Siberian native cultures, mainly the central one, featuring modernized designs for practicality while still honoring traditional elements like headpieces and jewelry, such as the distinctive "Khakass pogo”, these headpieces are meticulously adorned with fur, wolf fangs, bear claws etc. OTYKEN's coats and patterns pay homage to the Chulyms and Ainu people, (most of OTYKEN’s members live in villages along the Chulym river) while their footwear hails from the Taimyr region. Look closely, and you'll spot ribbons adorning some sleeves – symbols of good luck tied to branches. And let's not overlook the striking face paintings adorning some members; each design intricately reflects the core themes of OTYKEN's music, from the rugged Siberian landscape to the elemental forces of wind and water. I admire how they imbue such depth of meaning into their clothing, even with modernized designs. It's fascinating how much you can learn about a culture simply by studying their attire. It truly mesmerizes me.

In conclusion, OTYKEN's latest album "PHENOMENON" takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey, with the titular track standing out as a mesmerizing blend of haunting melodies and pulsating rhythms. As explored in this review, I believe the band's potential to share their music and culture beyond borders is evident, offering a window into the diverse tapestry of Siberian traditions. With each listen, OTYKEN proves to be a source of solace and inspiration for me, their music serving as a guiding light through my murky days. I eagerly anticipate seeing this band continue to shine and perhaps even pioneer a new genre specific to the Siberian people. To truly appreciate their artistry, I recommend immersing yourself in their music first without the translated lyrics, allowing the auditory experience to unfold organically before delving into the deeper meanings within the lyrics. OTYKEN's "PHENOMENON" is not just an album; it's a testament to the transcendent power of music to unite souls and inspire across cultures and borders.

category: Music, Music video, Culture, Siberian Pop-Folk

rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

written by Michaela Kaczorová

[thekillogiceffect-blog]

REN - Sick Boi REACTION | Metal Head DJ Reacts

Today we check out a song from the artist REN with his song "Sick Boi" . This one was a little personal for me which I did not expect! Full album review coming soon! Have you heard of REN and his music? Let me know what you think!

#music

#reaction

#review

REN - Sick Boi  

https://youtu.be/3Q6uCrpzbPY

Order Sick Boi here:

https://bio.to/Ren-Sick-Boi

Subscribe Now! -

https://bit.ly/RenYTSub

SICK BOI OUT NOW:

http://Renmakesmusic.lnk.to/sickboi

http://www.sickboi.co.uk

Raising money for RNLI:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/ren-g..

. Freckled Angels Album:

https://renmakesmerch.com/products/fr..

. Website:

https://www.renmakesmusic.co.uk/

Store/Merchandise:

https://renmakesmerch.com

MY SOCIALS:

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[tio-trile]

I made this remix as soon as I got access to the voice recording files for that episode and then proceeded to play it for any crew I came across. Reception was mostly positive, however our supervising producer heard the first few bars and turned to walk away.

[oatmealdoodles]

I promise I’ll make Murder Drones art but let me get this out of my system

GUYS I AM READY TO MAKE THIS MOVIE MY WHOLE PERSONALITY

Going in I was a bit weary since I did in fact watch the original on broadway, and honestly, it didnt really click for me. Don’t get me wrong I LOVED the story and characters but I just never felt emerged, either due to the theater setting or its break-neck pacing. Luckily this movie works WAY better for me, and thats mostly due to them extending the runtime of act 1 to nearly double its length. We really get to breathe and be with these characters, and surprisingly I never once felt bored it was all so well made and paced.

The biggest concern I had though was that they were going to play down the charm of the original to make it “less broadway” and appeal to broader audiences. Mostly because I watched the new Mean Girls movie be so ashamed of being a musical that it got me worried for the whole genera. Luckily they didn’t they turned the campy charm up to 11, with full group choreography and some insanely creative set designs (Dancing Through Life). Like these are the EXACT VIBES I wanted from this movie.

One of my favorite parts of this movie is actually the production. Specifically the set design and filming, where they actual made almost all of the sets irl. They planted thousands of poppies just for the opening number, they actually made Munchkinland and Shiz, it’s all real. This movie also just looks great (ignoring some lighting) like the colors were POPING OFF the screen colorful especially in the beginning of “What is This Feeling” this movie is a visual treat. They really kept CGI to a minimum (obviously the animals but whatever) in order to pay homage to its theater roots. And it looks absolutely PHENOMINAL huge props to the team on that. Secondly they filmed the singing in direct, meaning no voice overs. And that weirdly didn't sound off at all the singing quality was amazing

that reminds me Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were SO GOOD. They ate, they slayed, they Cooked, they every-other-gen-alpha-term-of-praise-I-can-think-of. Their casting just fits the roles so well with a 110% commitment coming from both of them. Cynthia’s Elpheba might actual be my favorite interpretation of the character I’ve seen. Also the part they added with the original actresses (Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth) interacting with the new ones was maybe the most fan-service thing in this whole movie and I was here for it I gasped in the theater along with my friends.

Like I can’t overstate enough how much I ENJOYED this movie (I guess an essay long Tumblr rant will do) theres just an infectious enthusiasm and passion radiating off the screen. It really feels like a movie made with love, like everyone making this wanted to make it.

I can’t recommend enough that you go watch it if your a fan of musicals or broadway you'll have a ball with this one. 9/10.

[gabbyp09]

[decibeldissect]

Sabrina Carpenter's Please Please Please

For those who grew up watching Disney Channel in the last several years, Sabrina Carpenter was certainly no stranger. She played a lead role in Girl Meets World as Maya Hart, the stereotypical rebel teen with a troubled background and best friend to Riley Matthews, daughter of one of the best 90's TV couples, Cory and Topanga Matthews. 

Of course, as with many of the Disney girls who are musically inclined, Sabrina Carpenter was signed to a deal with Hollywood Records in 2013, a label owned by Disney at the time. She recorded four albums in addition to her EP with Hollywood Records - Can't Blame A Girl for Trying (2014), Eyes Wide Open (2015), Evolution (2016), Singular: Act I (2018), and Singular: Act II (2019). These releases grouped with numerous singles and even several holiday song covers grew a huge audience for Sabrina Carpenter outside of her acting, which has only grown, now leaving her as Spotify's 11th most-played artist worldwide in 2024. 

In January 2021, Carpenter announced that she had signed with Island Records of Universal Music Group. Emails I Can't Send was released just two years ago in July of 2022, and when a deluxe edition was later released in March of 2023 with bonus track Feather, it became her highest charting song at the time, claiming the #1 spot on the US Pop Song Charts. 

2023 continued to prove a huge year for Carpenter's career growth when she was invited to open for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in Latin America, Australia, and Singapore. Earlier this year in April of 2024 Espresso was released, peaking at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and of course, her most recent release  Please  Please  Please is currently sitting at #2.

Carpenter's Please Please Please is the new anthem for those who find themselves drawn to toxic relationships and pray that just this once things could be different. I would bet there's not a person, man or woman, who hasn't found themselves creating excuses and defending their taste to their loved ones, especially in their twenties. The lyricism is relatable but the music video truly takes it one step further. Not only do we see the love interest played by Barry Keoghan, real-life boyfriend of Carpenter since 2023, but it gives a broader view into just how deep some (including myself) will go to defend their partner, no matter how clear it may be for those outside of the relationship. 

The video opens with Carpenter in a jail cell (while Espresso plays over the station speakers, an amusing touch) being released on bail. As Carpenter pauses at the window to collect her belongings and fix her lipstick, we see Barry Keoghan escorted in by two cops. I'll be the first to admit that his smirk as they make eye contact would have me there for visiting hours frequently and that's exactly where we find Ms. Carpenter as well.

Through plastic partitions and jail phones, we see the pair's relationship grow as they smile and press their hands together against the barrier. She picks him up as he is released, presumably on bail himself from Ms. Carpenter (yet another nod to excusing and even enabling the toxic behaviors our partners can exhibit at times) and they embrace before they travel to a restaurant where Carpenter presumes they will share a meal. Unfortunately, Keoghan seems to have other plans and leads her into a walk-in freezer in the kitchen where it suddenly becomes apparent that her new love is in fact dealing with what appears to be the Italian mafia. While Keoghan fights with the men who are presumably responsible for his capture by law enforcement in the background, we see Carpenter in the foreground singing the chorus in a dress as red as the flags she ignores. She tries to comfort him after the fact and attempts to address the wound on his face but he pushes her away. 

We then see him rob a bank as she pleads with him to just stay inside for the day, knowing that nothing good comes from her man when he leaves the house. He's then arrested again and we see the couple share a brief goodbye while she is wrapped in his jacket. She is left to bail him out once again and the reunion is strikingly different from the first. She's fed up with his behavior and does not hide it, at first with her attitude when she picks him up from jail, and at the end of the music video when she handcuffs him while he's on his knees in a parking lot, and places a piece of duct tape over his mouth. She kisses the tape once and walks away. We see him accept defeat and the video ends with him staring into the camera with disappointed eyes and a kiss mark on the tape. 

It's never easy to walk away from a relationship that you want to work and the embarrassment that comes with ending a toxic relationship that you fought for yourself, as well as defended to the people around you can be part of the reason some stay. Sabrina Carpenter has clearly been through the process enough that she can express it both through her words and music video direction in just 4 minutes. 

Of course, as far as the media is aware Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan are happy in their relationship. I think using him as her love interest is a sweet detail and I hope she does not have to bail him out of jail (or vice versa) any time. 

The music video released on June 6th, 2024 currently sits at 32.5 million views and continues to climb. I do not doubt that Sabrina Carpenter will continue to skyrocket as long as she continues on this streak. Please Please Please might be her top song for now, but with the release of her next album Short n' Sweet looming at the end of August there is certainly no end in sight for her. 

[jasminesreview]

WAP - Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion

When I talk about great music videos, "WAP" by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion absolutely has to be in the conversation because WOW, just wow. The visuals hit you right out of the gate—literally—with a ‘WAP’ gate opening to a stunning garden, featuring the statue of them squirting water from their nipples. Literally iconic from the first two seconds!

The wet theme was brilliantly executed, with water flooding the home. And then the inside was just as glamorous as we saw the tantalizing booties adorning the walls!  Cardi and Meg’s hair and fashion? Unmatched. Their pink and yellow ensembles gave off major SpongeBob and Patrick bestie vibes, and I was here for it!

The snake scene was absolutely legendary, especially with Megan revisiting that theme in her new album rollout with "Cobra," "Hiss," and "Boa." It truly cast them as goddesses in my eyes.

And let's dive into the machine scene. I was truly captivated! The vibrant color scheme was both pleasing and perfect for summer. Additionally, it provided another opportunity for their fashion to shine, with Cardi in lime green and Megan in purple. The choreography in this scene was astounding and left me in awe. I initially thought they would just seductively stare into the camera, but nooo, they came to give us MOVES. They were on a mission!

I loved the smooth transition of Kylie Jenner going into the leopard room to introduce Cardi’s next solo scene, offering a glimpse into the various rooms of this extravagant house. Cardi's leopard theme, complemented with her chain-link hair, was everything, just flawless! The transition to Megan’s room was simply divine; I adored the black and white animal print.

The final dance scene was nothing short of extraordinary. Watching them on the rooftop, dancing in latex bodysuits in the water with soft pink and blue lighting was very mesmerizing! And I admire how they gave shine to other female artists at the end—Normani, Rosalia, Latto, Sukihana, and Rubi Rose all got their moment.

In summary, "WAP" isn't just a music video; it's a visual masterpiece that keeps on giving.

[thelailasblog]

[music-interpretation-review]

Melodicka Bros is a YouTube cover duo from Italy that makes purposely weird covers - playing with genre, mood, and expectations - and has developed a broad repetroire over the years.

Contestant videos under the cut:

[lcselkonusmalar]

Kitaplarla, resimlerle, güzel şeylerle dolu bir ev hayalî.

🖤

[trickarrows-bishop]

"the main problem with the new mean girls-" and suddenly im not listening to what you have to say.