Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #50 - 41

Mary, can you handle this? Florence, can you handle this? Diana, can you handle this? I think they can handle this.

The top 50 songs of the 1960s kicks off today and we've got some of the biggest acts in the history of popular music on display! Rolling Stone's greatest singer of all-time and Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, takes on the highest selling solo performer the world has ever seen (in concert tickets people, in concert tickets) and Queen of Rock, Tina Turner! Ray Charles and Johnny Cash, two dominant male artists that inspired Academy Award winning films make an impact and yes The Beatles are here... ... ... again. Like you're surprised. Let's get to it!

#50 - Then He Kissed Me (1963)

by The Crystals

You know The Supremes, The Shirelles, The Ronettes and The Shangri-Las. One sixties girl group that's often forgotten and generally underappreciated is The Crystals, who gave us some amazing songs like 'Then He Kissed Me.' Sure they've got that ridiculous 'Da Doo Ron Ron' song that automatically makes me think of Ronald McDonald (I have a problem, I know), but some of their much, much better songs have slipped into obscurity. Shame. Shame, shame, shame. If you like 'Then He Kissed Me,' look for songs like 'There's No Other (Like My Baby)' and 'He Hit Me (It Felt Like A Kiss).' No, that last one isn't the 60s own 'Hit Me Baby One More Time.' It's a harsh documentation of singer Little Eva's ('The Loco-Motion) abusive relationship with her boyfriend and her actual belief that he beat her out of love.

Top 20 - 30 April, 2011



The reign of Santigold begins!



1. Santigold ft. Karen O - Go





2. Kimbra - Cameo Lover





3. Adele - Turning Tables





4. The Good Natured - Skeleton (NEW)





5. Lykke Li - Sadness Is A Blessing (NEW)

Song of the Day - Techno Fan

The Wombats - Techno Fan

Album: This Modern Glitch (2011)

After the surprisingly deep 'Anti-D,' The Wombats return with their new single, 'Techno Fan,' that places them back in more familiar territory. It's a bit of a tune (pronounced tuuuuune) with a sing-along chorus that sees the lads move from Joy Division groupies to Daft Punk and Prodigy aficionados. Seemingly forgotten by mainstream and alternative radio after the success of 'Tokyo (Vampires and Wolves),' hopefully 'Techno Fan' will see a return to the spotlight for one of the most interesting bands in music today.

Rating: 3.5/5

Song of the Day - Sadness Is A Blessing

Lykke Li - Sadness Is A Blessing

Album: Wounded Rhymes (2011)

You could sum up the video for 'Sadness Is A Blessing' by saying Lykke Li goes all mini-movie Gaga, gets trashed in front of Bootstrap Bill while creepy people watch and almost gets kicked out of a fancy establishment for making a dick of herself. Don't worry, it's a lot better than that awful, awful description. Anyway, why am I talking about the video? Because you already know the song's going to be amazing. This is Lykke Li after all. Following the non-stop assaults from 'Get Some' and 'I Follow Rivers,' she tones it down just a little for 'Sadness Is A Blessing,' which proves to be just as good as her previous releases. Not that anyone's surprised.

Rating: 4/5

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #60 - 51

Van Morrison!

After this post we're halfway through our 60s countdown! Let's look at ten songs that just missed out on making the top 50 songs of the 1960s. You know they're going to be pretty gosh darn awesome. 'Gosh darn' was essentially the f-bomb in the 60s, right?

#60 - You Can't Hurry Love (1966)

by The Supremes

The Supremes 7th #1 song in America and their second single to make an impact on our countdown. 'You Can't Hurry Love' perfectly sums up the sound of Motown; powerful vocals and catchy hooks delivered by not acts that were more than just the best in rhythm and blues. They were the best in music... period.

#59 - Unchained Melody (1965)

by The Righteous Brothers

You're already thinking, "OMG, it's because of Ghost, right?" WRONG. So very, very wrong. Ghost sucked and you know it. 

Song of the Day - Skeleton

The Good Natured - Skeleton

Album: Skeleton EP (2011)


Will 'Skeleton' be the song that finally brings some major attention to British three-piece, The Good Natured? I sure hope so! They've released some catchy slices of electro-pop in the past ('Wolves,' 'Your Body Is A Machine'), but none as instantly addictive as 'Skeleton.' Lead singer, Sarah McIntosh's presence has improved by leaps and bounds with every new release and she's now at the point where she could be one of the most intriguing young women in music. The Good Natured are ready to take the world by storm!

Rating: 4/5

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #70 - 61



The Doors!


The Beatles vs. The Rolling Stones, the King of rock and roll, the first lady of soul and double the Jim Morrison. Is that enough to get you excited for the next ten songs in our 60s countdown? Yeah, I thought so.

#70 - Can't Help Falling In Love (1961)

by Elvis Presley

Yes, I also like UB40's cover. What of it? 

#69 - Ruby Tuesday (1967)

by The Rolling Stones

Who do you prefer, The Beatles or The Rolling Stones? That questions was to the 60s as 'Britney or Christina' was to the early 2000s and... um... 'Nicki Minaj or Lil' Kim' is to today. Of course, in each of these face-off's one of the acts is insanely popular while the other is their slightly less successful, trashier big sister. Try to guess who falls into each category. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Anyway, enjoy 'Ruby Tuesday.'

Song of the Day - Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win

Beastie Boys ft. Santigold:

Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win

Album: Hot Sauce Committee Part Two (2011)

The Beastie Boys recruited some special guests for their latest album, including another of New York's finest and It's My Kind of Scene favourite, Santigold! She's already proven herself as being able to adapt to a wide array of styles and genres, so it's no surprise that Santi fits in perfectly with Mike D and Co. I know it's a Beastie Boys song, but it really gets me even more excited about Santigold's next album! 

Rating: 3.5/5  

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #80 - 71



The Temptations: Music that makes you think of kids dying from bee stings.


Oh, hey groovers... totally didn't see you there. Far out. Before I get too spacey, let's check out the next ten songs on our 60s countdown!

#80 - People Get Ready (1965)

by The Impressions

Easy-listening music promoting positive social change. It should be enough to make you sick, but The Impressions deliver the lyrics with such sincerity you can't help but love it. 

#79 - Happy Together (1967)

by The Turtles

That video is just too much. Don't you feel like you're watching some ridiculous montage in a Will Ferrell movie?

Song of the Day - Xanadu

Olivia Newton-John and ELO - Xanadu

Album: Xanadu (1980)

"A place where nobody dared to go, The love that we came to know, They call it Xanadu." You know what else is called Xanadu? My sister's unborn child. So this is a big shout-out to Sam with her favourite song in the whole world, 'Xanadu.' Now all I have to do is convince her to call her bub Shaniqua and my life is complete. I will indeed be... in Xanadu. Won't you join me? I'll throw in Sarah Blasko's amazing cover from Cinema Blasko to sweeten the deal. ONJ, DMY!



Song of the Day - My Sweet Prince

Placebo - My Sweet Prince

Album: Without You I'm Nothing (1998)

It's not exactly a song that's going to get you pumped up for the day ahead, but that doesn't lose 'My Sweet Prince' any points. The song remains one of Placebo's best 'slow' numbers and a stand-out track on their fantastic sophomore album, Without You I'm Nothing. A wonderful song... that will probably leave you a mess. Enjoy!

Music Video Mayhem - Kimbra, Arctic Monkeys, Nelly ft. Kelly Rowland



Kimbra!


Music Video Mayhem returns, and we're mixing it up today by pitting artists from very different backgrounds against each other. We've got pop, rock, indie, R&B and hip-hop taking center stage. New Zealand's most intriguing export, Kimbra, returns with the video for her amazing second single, 'Cameo Lover;' Arctic Monkeys also recently unveiled a new song in the form of 'Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair' and Nelly and Kelly Rowland attempt to make lightning strike twice with 'Gone.' The videos for these three tracks are ready to compete... which one's the best? Let's find out...

Kimbra - Cameo Lover

Kimbra - Cameo Lover (Official Music Video) from Kimbra on Vimeo.


So, Kimbra's pretty awesome. But you already knew that. Her previous video, 'Settle Down,' was the perfect visual companion. It was cool, quirky and immediately caught your attention; much like the song itself. Similarly, the video for 'Cameo Lover' captures the fun, 60s inspired retro vibe we love so much in the song and somehow manages to make your listening experience even more amazing than it already was. There's even a cameo by the girl from 'Settle Down!' Pure awesomeness and right now, Kimbra can do no wrong.

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #90 - 81

James Brown!

#90 - Bad Moon Rising (1969)

by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Pub rock standard, road-trip necessity... classic rock and roll. I'm not a big Creedence fan, but how could you say no to a song this catchy?

#89 - Son of A Preacher Man (1968)

by Dusty Springfield

Springfield's silky smooth vocal stylings ensure that this definitive recording of 'Son of A Preacher Man' is actually a song you want to listen to. Unlike pretty much any other version of the song.

Song of the Day - Grace

Kate Havnevik - Grace

Album: Grey's Anatomy, Vol. 2 (2006)

Kate Hanevik is set to release her sophomore album, You, in the near future, giving my whole '2011 is like the best year ever' argument even more weight. Since watching the musical episode of Grey's Anatomy a couple of weeks ago, I've had 'Grace' pop up in my head every now and then (it was performed admirably by Sara Ramirez in the episode) so was more than happy to read about Havnevik's return to the world stage this year. Once you've listened to 'Grace,' you will be too.

Similar to... Imogen Heap, Emiliana Torrini, Nerina Pallot.



Top 20 - 23 April, 2010

Adele scores her 3rd #1 from 21!

1. Adele - Turning Tables (NEW)





2. Kimbra - Cameo Lover





3. Santigold ft. Karen O - Go





4. Arctic Monkeys - Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair





5. Digitalism - 2 Hearts (NEW)

Song of the Day - Just Can't Get Enough

Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough

Album: The Beginning (2010)

When they're not taking a dump on an 80s classic or picking fights with chickens that 'jack' their style, the Black Eyed Peas can still craft a pop song that doesn't make you want to beat your head repeatedly against a wall until you lose consciousness. Good for them! While I've done my best to avoid anything BEP related since 'The Time' came out, Fergie's hook in 'Just Can't Get Enough' managed to get itself stuck in my head after barely a full listen. While I don't have much time for the rest of the song, Fergie-Ferg seems to keep me coming back for more. Further proof that she needs to ditch the Peas and get to work on her sophomore solo album. Because she makes us boys go loco.

Rating: 3/5

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, #100 - 91



Frank and Nancy: Normal...


Dance crazes, country standards, rock and or roll, surfer pop and a duet that makes you a little uncomfortable. You've got all that (and more) to look forward to as we kick off the Top 100 Songs of the 1960s! Early top ten guesses can be submitted now. Who's going to make it to the top? We've got nine posts to get through before we hit the top ten, so let's get to it. The countdown starts now!

#100 - Somethin' Stupid (1967)

by Nancy Sinatra and Frank Sinatra


As long as you don't think about Nancy being the Frank's daughter, 'Somethin' Stupid' is actually quite a lovely ballad. Of course, now you won't be able to think of anything other than the fact that Nancy is Frank's daughter. Try not to be too creeped out... it's just a song.

Song of the Day - Good Friday





The Black Crowes - Good Friday

Album: Three Snakes and One Charm (1996)

Good Friday (Friday)... gotta get down on Good Friday? Perhaps. Perhaps not. It's My Kind of Scene wishes you an Easter weekend full of relaxation, chocolate, sun and a sneaky drink or two. Feel free to combine any of those while you enjoy some sweet, sweet Black Crowes.

Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, Honourable Mentions



The Beatles: Not likely to make many appearances... ... ... ...


Have you lost that loving feeling? Can you get no satisfaction? Do you find yourself questioning where did your love go? Well, this is the countdown for you. Welcome to the swinging sixties! Our latest decade countdown (and last for now, unless you really want to see the 50s or the Baroque era) takes us back to a time where rock and or roll music reigned supreme, the talent of a girl group far exceeded their skank factor and unattractive people with bad teeth could be really famous. I'll let you figure that last one out. This was music that shaped not only a generation of far-out guys and gals, but the direction popular music would take for the next fifty years. Around the world, The Vietnam War was all the rage (quite literally) and anti-war protests would result in the rise of the (dirty) hippie, the promotion of 'free' love and a whole lot of recreational drug use. 1960s music was defined by one major music festival that ended the decade (and was the last great moment for psychedelic rock), Woodstock. Three days of peace and music, it brought a close to ten years of amazing music.


To prepare you for the Top 100 Songs of the 1960s, today we'll be looking at ten songs that narrowly missed out. Get decked out by putting on your hippest threads, sip on a coke (or root beer float) and prepare yourself for some real classics. Enjoy!

Honourable Mentions:

Chain of Fools (1967)

by Aretha Franklin

Song of the Day - Turning Tables

Adele - Turning Tables

Album: 21 (2011)

One of the best songs on an album full of amazing tracks, 'Turning Tables' will no doubt propel Adele further into superstardom after Gwyneth Paltrow's surprisingly powerful rendition on this week's episode of Glee. No artist has been as dominant as Adele so far this year, as she crossed the million mark in album sales for the UK and USA for 21, becoming the only performer to do so in 2011. Today you get to enjoy not only Adele's version of 'Turning Tables,' but Paltrow's cover as well. It's 2-for-1 day on It's My Kind of Scene. Embrace it.

Rating: 5/5



Song of the Day - 2 Hearts

Digitalism - 2 Hearts

Album: I Love You, Dude (2011)

Those crazy German disco-dance acts, with their wacky album names and exciting musiks. We've been given our first taste of I Love You, Dude, in the form of '2 Hearts,' which proves to be a welcome return for Deutschland's favourite electro-punk duo. Expect the song to earn a ton of alternative radio play before commercial radio finally succumbs to its charms. Digitalism is back kids! Like 2011 wasn't good enough already...

Rating: 4/5

New Music - Girls (Who Run The World)





Beyonce - Girls (Who Run The World)

Album: TBA (2011)

Beyonce's latest single, 'Girls (Who Run The World),' leaked earlier today and, um... well... it's no 'Single Ladies,' is it? Really, that's ok though. As a lead single this is destined to take Mrs. Z back to the top of the charts, hopefully before she releases something truly amazing to capitalize on the success of I Am... Sasha Fierce. Like the music that the majority of her contemporaries (Rihanna, Lady Gaga, J.Lo [?]) have been releasing lately, 'Girls' is dance smash that will secure Beyonce plenty of play at trashy, trashy clubs. The chorus is catchy, if not slightly grating by the second listen, but we know there'll be some real goodness to come when B (yeah, we're on a single letter basis) releases her new album later in the year.

Rating: 3/5

Song of the Day - Vienna

The Fray - Vienna

Album: How to Save a Life (2005)

You're sitting there thinking, "really?" Stop thinking you're too cool and listen to the song! Much like Snow Patrol's 'Give Me Strength,' this song made me really enjoy music by The Fray again. And it really makes you want to go to Vienna, no? Actually, it kind of makes Vienna sound like it could end up being the most depressing city you'll ever end up in if it makes you write a song like 'Vienna.' If you're a fan, I also recommend checking out 'Unsaid.' It's another big winner for The Fray. Enjoy!

Report Card - Pearl Jam, pt. 2 (1996 - Now)

You've had some time to digest the incredible early years of Pearl Jam's discography, now we move on to the latter half of the 90s and into the 2000s. At the end of Part 1, this pioneering act finished their mid-terms with an excellent 'A+.' Can they keep up that high standard with the end of the grunge era and adapt to a new age of music? You're about to find out...

Who You Are (1996)

You could forgive Pearl Jam for a song like 'Who You Are.' This was the experimental mid-90s, were everyone was trying to come up with the 'new' sound that would dominate the remainder of the decade. Unfortunately, this wasn't it.

Song: C

Song of the Day - Elevation



Bono: I'm flying, Jack!



U2 - Elevation

Album: All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000)

I made the mistake of watching Lara Croft: Tomb Raider last night, which outside of its bizarre yet delicious soundtrack, leaves you wanting to repeatedly run into a wall until all traces of the film's existence are removed from your short term memory. The film closes with 'Elevation' playing over the credits and I had honestly forgotten how awesome a song it was. Well done, U2. Then I watched the video and again felt the need to repeatedly run into a wall until all traces of the video's existence were removed from my short term memory. Everything would be fine if The Edge didn't feel the need to pop up in all the Tomb Raider clips, making me barf-a-licious. The man plays a mean guitar, but he certainly can't act. Actually, he would have been perfect in the movie.

Music Video Mayhem - Jessie J, Britney Spears, Lenka & Kelly Rowland



Jessie J: If Nicki Minaj was white...



Music Video Mayhem is back and this time, it's a ladies-only battle royale. I was going to write ladies four-way, but I didn't want to disappoint some creep who clicks on the link in Google expecting to find something a little more interesting. Oh wait, I typed it anyway... welcome creeps! We've got some exciting contenders today; current British 'it' girl, Jessie J, Britney Spears' second video for 'Till The World Ends,' Australia's former actress turned indie-darling, Lenka and Destiny's Child alumni, Kelly Rowland. Who's going to be wearing the crown at the end of the post? Let's find out. On a side note, a new addition to this feature will be 'best YouTube comment,' so get excited... there's some good ones.

Jessie J - Nobody's Perfect

So we start with this visual of a house that looks eerily similar to the one in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, accompanied by a creepy British voice, quite possibly Jessie J's, before going to the worst cosplay Alice in Wonderland tea party of all time. Alright, I'm being a little harsh. 'Nobody's Perfect' actually does a good job of maintaining your interest. There's some cool visuals (like the black tar/paint covered Jessie, the room of clocks and exploding hallways) and more costume changes than a Kylie Minogue concert (some better than others). My problem might actually be with the song itself, which is a pretty big step down from 'Price Tag' and even 'Do It Like A Dude.'

Best YouTube Comment: "But P!NK told me I was perfect..." by jfwanify. Yeah, Jessie! Why you be so mean and destroy our delusions?

Report Card - Pearl Jam, pt. 1 (1991 - 1995)

So, it was pointed out to me that I've been slack with putting out an edition of an old feature, Report Card! For those new readers that are asking, "qua?" the Report Card focuses on one artist, group or band and highlights their entire singles discography, awarding them a grade for both song and video. At the end, an overall grade is assigned and trust me, this is one subject you don't want to fail. Luckily, failure is not an option for the band we'll be looking at today... Pearl Jam! The request for the Jam was sent in by regular reader and all-round awesome person, Rayna, so if you're a fan of grunge's greatest act, you have her to thank. Of course life is never easy when you want to do one of these posts. Despite PJ's excellence, they weren't a big fan of the music video after the overwhelming success that was 'Jeremy,' so the majority of tracks will be based on song alone. These songs alone are still generally better than what passes off as rock music today, so whatever, yeah? What else... well, Pearl Jam's released a lot of material in the past twenty years, so we're going to be breaking this up into two parts. Today we'll be looking at the earlier music, from 1991 to 1995, with part two giving us, well, everything else. Alright, dust off your flannel shirts, don't do (or cut) your hair and get ready to move from side to side in a totally apathetic, yet non-emo, manner. That's right, we're getting our grunge on, kids!

PEARL JAM

Alive (1991)

As far as a debut song goes, this was a strong choice to introduce the world to Pearl Jam. Every element that separates Pearl Jam from their contemporaries is present; Vedder's distinct vocals, a powerful story and some sweet guitar riffs. What of the video? Well... they all look really young?

Song: A

Video: C

Song of the Day - Papi

Jennifer Lopez - Papi

Album: Love? (2011)

Now, I know that I was fairly quick to write off Miss Heniffer Lopez (who likes tacos and burritos) after the disappointment that was 'I'm Into You,' but she's rebounded somewhat with the ready-for-the-floor smash, 'Papi.' It's got all the ingredients to be a chart success; club beats, skanky undertones and a whole lot of sizzle. Of course, when there's this much sizzle, there's very little steak. Look for 'Papi' to chart for a bit and then slip into the abyss of forgotten pop hits. Circle of life or something...

Rating: 3/5

Top 20 - 16 April, 2011

1. Kimbra - Cameo Lover (2 weeks at #1)





2. Santigold ft. Karen O - Go (NEW)





3. Arctic Monkeys - Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair (NEW)





4. Lady Gaga - Judas (NEW)





5. Beastie Boys - Make Some Noise

New Music - Judas

Lady in re-e-e-e-e-e-d...

Lady Gaga - Judas

Album: Born This Way (2011)

'Bad Romance,' version 2.0? Not quite, but get ready to hear 'Judas' just as much. The song seems to follow a fairly similar formula to 'Bad Romance' but it's pumped up more to be a club thumper, no remixes necessary. But she'll probably release a remix CD anyway. 'Judas' has hooks that instantly grab onto your brain and refuse to let go, making it a huge step up in my books from 'Born This Way,' which warranted about ten more plays to appreciate. Any fears for the quality of Born This Way (out next Saturday) should be put to bed with this one. New music is just flying out from all corners at the moment, but it's all quality stuff! 2011 continues to bring the goods...

Rating: 4/5

Song of the Day - Go!

Santigold ft. Karen O - Go

Album: TBA (2011)

Not only has Santi White returned to save us from the mundane, she's brought along Karen O with her. Can Santigold get any cooler? No... no she can't. She is the coolest of the cool. 'Go' has been making the rounds on virtually every music blog and the consensus is unanimous; this is destined to go down as one of the best songs of the year. It retains White's signature sound; dark, electronic beats swirling in a mixer combining elements from fifteen genres at once. The track also proves that this sound can definitely be sustained over more than one album. Like 2011 wasn't good enough already, now we finally get new Santigold!

Rating: 4/5

Song of the Day - All But Gone



Sarah McLeod, version 2.0.



Sarah McLeod - All But Gone

Album: Beauty Was A Tiger (2005)

Dear Sarah McLeod,

As the frontwoman for the criminally underrated Australian band, The Superjesus, you were one of our greatest rock exports. Lately it seems you've ventured into the electronic realm as you enjoy solo success on the club charts. While I wish you nothing but the best in your endeavours, please find some time to return to the genre that you excel in... rock and or roll. As I've written here before, you are the quintessential Australian woman of rock and you're sorely missed.

 Yours Sincerely,

It's My Kind of Scene



Song of the Day - Once

Pearl Jam - Once

Album: Ten (1991)

Looks like I've found a new favourite 'best of' album in Pearl Jam's Rearviewmirror (thanks Sam!). Sorry Fleetwood Mac. That easy listening music has been thrown out in favour of some classic grunge and become my new #1 CD for the car. Anything you can't stop listening to at the moment?

Splendour In The Grass... Worth Your Money?

So the obvious answer is, "hell yeahz it'$ worth my money duuude. Thi$ iz $plendaaar!!" First things first, the way you talk makes me sick and just how do you do that amazing thing where you say 's' and it's interpreted as a dollar sign? Amazing. Sickening and amazing. But really, for those that want to experience a jolly good festival experience, complete with camping, is Splendour in the Grass really worth your $510? Glastonbury works out at roughly $400... Lollapalooza? $215 (and since the AUS dollar is so good at the moment, that's like $210 - OMG, DMY!)! Those are arguably the two premiere music festivals in the world and they're both much cheaper than Splendour (and Glastonbury has U2, Beyonce and The Chemical Brothers; Lolla snagged The Flaming Lips, Cat Power and The Killers). So now you're saying, "what you're meticulously describing is Australian promoters desire to bleed every cent they can from the young consumers that wish to attend their musical festivities." Wow, compare what you just said to how you were initially speaking at the beginning of this post. You've come a long way, baby. Now that you're thinking about how much of a rip-off Splendour is, let's look at why you'd be willing to pay $510 to go. "Wait, now you're going to sell us on $plendour?" I'm complicated... so yes. And well done on working that dollar sign back in your speech pattern.

WHY YOU SHOULD GO:

Kanye West - it's his only Australian show. The man is at his creative peak right now so this would be prime time to see him. Did I mention it's his only Australian show. 'Gold Digger,' 'Power,' 'Stronger;' these songs were made for a festival crowd.

Song of the Day - Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair

Arctic Monkeys - Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair

Album: Suck It and See (2011)

Yeah, yeah, yeah! Arctic Monkeys unveiled a new track yesterday, 'Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair, and I've got to say... it's all kinds of awesome! While I didn't give up on the band after 'Brick by Brick,' which saw a very mixed reaction from the Monkeys fans (no, not those Monkees), I wasn't entirely sold on picking up fourth album, Suck It and See. Pretty sure it's been upgraded to must-buy. 2011 is being very kind to fans of rock music. Now, let's do the macarena in the Devil's lair! Just don't sit down, 'cause I've moved your chair? Enjoy!

Rating: 4/5

Dream Festival



From where you'd rather be...


Have you noticed most festival line-ups have been a bit same-y the last couple of years (Ke$ha's inclusion to Future excluded)? The latest Big Day Out pretty much featured a bunch of artists that headlined in recent years and haven't released new material since their last tour (what up, Tool? Hey thurr, Iggy). In fact, I'm finding it hard to want to go to any Australian music festivals this year, but maybe that's due to my building excitement for Bestival in the UK which is in September. Enough about me and my awesome ticket to an awesome festival. Let's talk about the idea of a 'Dream Festival.' Admit it, you've spent many an hour, possibly even days (if it's weeks, you should probably get a job or something) thinking up your own personal line-up for a festival that would satisfy your musical needs. There's the biggest stars, no southern cross tattoos in the crowd, no moles spending the entire day in the booze tent and certainly no fluro in sight. Ok, maybe in the dance tent. It's just beautiful people enjoying beautiful music and having a most excellent time.


If you haven't thought about what your own festival would be like, now's the best time to start! Stealing the Big Day Out's formula, you have two main stages featuring the biggest acts (mine would be gold and silver... blue and orange can suck it), a green stage for a more relaxed environment but featuring acts that are all about good music and, of course, the dance tent. Now pick five acts to perform on each stage/tent and you've got your very own 'Dream Festival.' In need of some inspiration? Here's what mine would look like.

IT'S MY KIND OF SCENE-A-PALOOZA:

GOLD STAGE

David Bowie

Song of the Day - S&M (Britney Spears Remix)



Yes, please, thank you.



Rihanna and Britney Spears - S&M

It's been over a year since the last time two female superstars collaborated on a track (Gaga/Beyonce) and now Britney is joining Rihanna to show us how much chains and whips excite her. While it's certainly random and comes out of nowhere you can't deny these two make the song even more enjoyable than what it already was. Now the question is, will they make an official video. Rihanna, Britney - 'Te Amo' pt. 2 anyone?

Rating: 3.5/5

Song of the Day - Give Me Strength

Snow Patrol - Give Me Strength

Album: Up to Now (2009)


While it's not the newest song, this is still proof that Snow Patrol have some quality music to give to the people. I'll admit I wrote them off after the somewhat disappointing, A Hundred Million Suns, but 'Give Me Strength' does a pretty good job of redeeming them in my eyes. Yep, if a crappy act releases one good song, I'll like them. So, Dannii Minogue, Victoria Beckham... the ball's in your court.

10 and 1 - Best Girl Groups

Spice Girls: I can't wait for their Behind The Music episode.

Question... are there actually any girl groups out there in the music world right now? Destiny's Child will be out of the game for at least another ten years, when the allure of an instant money-making comeback tour will see the girls asking you to say their names once more. The Pussycat Dolls, with the exception of Nicole Scherzinger, all quit when they realised they were just Scherzinger's back-up dancers. Sugababes (version 4.0) don't even deserve to use the name anymore now that the three original members have been kicked out. Girls Aloud may never team-up again if Cheryl Cole lands that U.S. X-Factor judging gig (shame?). The Saturdays aren't even worth talking about. Girls Can't Catch failed miserably, but who didn't see that coming. Girls. Can't. Catch. If you thought a girl group with a name that puts down girls would take off, you're dense. I like that. So, question the second... when will we see the return of the girl group?


Now, it's time to start the week with a '10 and 1!' For those in the audience that fit into that 'dense' category of people I like so much, we're looking at girl groups. Duh. We're moving out of 'worst' territory for the 10, as we'll be looking at some awesome girl groups before finishing with one really, really (really) crappy one. Let's get to it!