Without further ado...
Since his debut ‘Version’ back in 2007, pint sized producer Mark Ronson has often graced the showbiz pages of most newspapers and tacky gossip magazines. Being the best friend to rehab songstress Amy Winehouse and gradually making his way through a catalogue of gorgeous models, it’s more than easy to forget about Ronson’s biggest gift – music. And now, three years later, it looks as though he has hung up his crown as ‘The most connected man in pop’, and instead decided to focus on his latest offering; ‘Record Collection’.
‘Bang, Bang, Bang’ is the album’s opener, the first track to be selected for release, (admittedly a while ago). Since it first graced the charts, I’ve not been much of a fan and failed to see the hype surrounding a track that to be quite honest, didn’t appeal to me. However, after appreciating the album as a whole it seems I’ve changed my mind, deciding that not only is the track crammed with catchy hooks, it’s also a perfect introduction, setting the tone for the rest of the collection.
Second track ‘Lose It (in the end)’, is a favourite of mine, featuring lyrics from Phantom Planet’s Alex Greenwald. It’s slightly distorted yet appealing style makes for a refreshing change, as does (surprisingly), Ronson’s second single release ‘Bike Song’, featuring The View’s Kyle Falconer. Although it doesn’t come equipped with the best lyrics, its juvenile bike bell sound effects and cheerful tune is impossible to get out of your head after just a few listens. Track 5 ‘You Gave Me Nothing’ is also pleasing to the ears, oozing with 80’s panache, which is emphasised further with the voice of Rose Elinor Dougall; a voice Ronson, (rightly so), utilises throughout the album. Title track ‘Record Collection’ is also a winner, showcasing Ronson’s own vocal abilities, as well as reinforcing the retro vibe with collaboration from Simon Le Bon. Referring to Ronson’s desire to focus on his music; ‘... I only want to be in your record collection’, there is a playful depth to the track.
However, it’s at just track 4 that the album reaches its peak, with ‘Somebody to Love Me’, a dose of retro nostalgia featuring the fabulous Boy George. An arguably odd choice for the collaboration, it works incredibly well, with Boy George’s vocals not only strengthening the track as a whole, but his personal background paving the way for some well thought lyrics; ‘... I want somebody to be nice, see the boy I was once in my eyes’. It is without doubt, the strongest track from the 14 tracks on offer, as well as being one for the dance floor.
Instrumental interludes aside, the rest of the album, (rather frustratingly), appears to go downhill, with Ronson lessening his grip on the retro vibe he previously captured so well; opting for rap instead. However, this aside the album is an overall success and proof that Ronson’s quirky and sometimes peculiar style can work - it’s refreshing to hear something that little bit different, which will still manage to burrow its way into your head.
Kanye West -Runaway:
Despite being better known for that incident at the VMA Awards last year with Taylor Swift, Kanye West is an artist I have always defended. Having seen him perform, I admire his passion and the emotion that goes into every performance. His fifth studio album is therefore one I'm eager to wrap my ears around, (when he finally makes his mind up what it's going to be called!). But for now, I'll have to make do with first release 'Power' and now the second track to be released 'Runaway', featuring Pusha T.
'Runaway' is somewhat sinister throughout and not for you if you're looking for the next 'Goldigger'. Instead, it follows on from the mature '808's & Heartbreaks', with some brutally honest lyrics from West, 'See I could have me a good girl, and still be addicted to those hoodrats'. In fact, it makes you feel almost sorry for the guy!
Either way, it's a grower. Admittedly it takes several listens, but once it's in your head it's hard to shake.
Here it is, 'Runaway':
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