Blogcritics Author: Dillon Doyle

Music Review: Britney Spears - "Gimme More"

Dillon Doyle — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 20:32:39 EDT

Britney comes back with a bang!
It's Britney Bitch! After months of waiting the day is finally here; Britney Spear's official single has been released! The official first single off the still unknown titled album is "Gimme More," and it will be the first studio recording Brit Brit released since 2003. Beside "Gimme More," two more singles have been...

Announcement: Short-content feeds

Phillip Winn — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT

Sunday, August 26, 2007, marks the switch of all Blogcritics.org article feeds from full-content to short-content. This is the result of several converging factors, and is unfortunately a permanent decision (as permanent as any decision can be on the web, that is). We are aware of all of the reasons that this is a Bad Idea, and we are aware that some of you will be quite upset about having to click on something to read the free content, and we're sorry. Unfortunately, despite great effort, full-content feeds are not currently economically viable. Two other factors are involved: full-content feeds have resulted in an unprecedented level of content theft, with BC content appearing on many websites, usually spam sites, without attribution or permission. This duplicate content causes a cascading set of problems, not the least of which is that search engines generally aren't favorable to duplicate content, and don't always guess correctly. Finally, our RSS advertising partner is strongly in favor of short-content feeds. We hope that you'll continue to subscribe to BC via RSS, and when an article grabs your eye, it's only a click away, still free on the BC website. Thank you for your understanding.

Single Review: Will.I.Am - "Got It From My Mama"

Dillon Doyle — Sun, 5 Aug 2007 21:19:47 EDT

Will.I.Am, of the Black Eyed Peas, is set to release his third solo album on September 25th. Not surprisingly the CD will have many cameos and guest artists. Some of the already confirmed artists include Snoop Dog on the song "Donkey," Fergie on several of the tracks, Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, Macy Grey, and many more. It seems to be that this is Will.I.Am's style: He has never had a successful solo career. He has always done a lot better producing and being a guest on other recordings.Will.I.Am, or William James Adams Jr., was born in LA, where he was able to soak up the great music scene. Originally signed to Ruthless Records, Will.I.Am proceeded to found the Black Eyed Peas. Serving mainly as a producer and lyricist, Will.I.Am helped the Peas rocket to unprecedented success. This success helped Will.I.Am gain many opportunities, several of which were for producing. He contributed to the several albums from such artists as Diddy, Sergio Mendes, Justin Timberlake, and Fergie. I think all of this contributing, and not soloing, has really put a damper on his solo work. Although his new album, Songs About Girls is set to be released on September 25th, he is still working on side projects, including Michael Jackson's comeback album, and numerous other Clear Channel approved gems.The first single, "Got It From My Mama (Genetics)" is a wonderful start to his album. It has a really catchy beat, a nonsensical Fergie melody, and an awesome hook. What else do you need from a hip-hop song? Well, I guess you can say the songs sole message is about sex, so rims and drugs are missing. The song is so catchy. I can just picture this being the next wannabe teen anthem. You can almost hear the little tweens shouting, "I got it from my mama," in a Mean Girls "Milk Shake" way (you know, when the 8 year old is stripping to Kalis). Anyway, this song is really catchy, and super danceable, so I like it.If the rest of the album is as good as "Got It From My Mama (Genetics)," the album will be a best seller. I don't know about you, but I can't wait to listen to "Donkey," a club anthem featuring Snoop Dog. I wonder what kind of sexy action occurred during that video shoot?Preview: (courtesy dillonMP3) Will.I.Am - "Got It From My Mama (Genetics)": Download Will.I.Am - "Got It From My Mama (Genetics)" Music Video Flash Video [3:56m]: Download News Sources: Austin Scaggs, "Will.I.Am's 'Songs About Girls': Sneak Peek," RollingStone.com Julianne Shepherd, "FIRST SHOT: will.i.am 'Songs About Girls'," Vibe.com

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Music Review: Kanye West - Stronger

Dillon Doyle — Thu, 5 Jul 2007 08:20:16 EDT

Kanye West has a new CD due out late August. The CD continues his school theme, and is entitled Graduation. So far Kanye has released two videos, "Stronger" and "Can't Tell Me Nothing". While both will surly be commercial success, I am starting to question Kanye's skillz', as both a rapper and producer. The Album (so far) is a pile of un-organized crap (the version I have sucks), that is lacking that special Kanye flare. Kanye even says so (sort of): "I can’t say I’m halfway done. I look at music as a gift. So I’mma just keep everything under wraps until it’s time.” said Ye, “You remember, you didn’t find out about the Nas joint (We Major) until real late? I waited till the last listening session a couple of weeks before the album came out. There are a few rappers I really love and I would love to work with, but I’mma figure out what I’mma do for my album." "Stronger" is a remix of a remix of a sample (or something like that). Kanye took the song from a Daft Punk song called "harder, better, faster, stronger", which was taken from Edwind Birdsong. The Daft Punk version of the song (listen) is pretty good, but I think Kanyes version is crap. "Stronger" just reminds me of "Workout Plan" with its exercise overtones. I still think Kanye is a very talented producer and rapper, but I do not think this is his best work. I would have liked to here some more innovative (or more catchy) beat, with some more substantial rapping. The lyrics, and the bravado are not inspiring. In fact, they are lack luster. I really like the synth of the beat, but you can't attribute that to Kanye, it was Daft Punk. Although the song sucks, the video is interesting, and kinda cool. The vid took three months to complete, and it is a re-make of Akira, an Anime type film.The vid has some sweet cinematography stuff, and some funky shades!While "Stronger" was not very good, Kanye's other single "Can't Tell Me Nothing" is a lot better. Although it is no "The Corner" (well that's technically Common, but hey), "Can't Tell Me Nothing" is still a lot better than "Stronger". The song has a good beat. The song progresses, and it is not used or old. Of course, in keeping with hip-hop tradition, the beat includes a distorted repeating voice going in a repetitious ascending pattern. While I am not usually a fan of the chipmunk like voice, this one isn't bad. The song has a very gritty feel, and Kanye’s singing (which sort of sucks), make you focus on the lyrics, which is a good thing for this song. The song talks about the spoils of fame and money, and how tempting and evil they can be. It really shows that Kanye isn't all about the ho's and benjamins (well, in Kanye's case bro's). All in all the album is not very good, SO FAR! Kanye is known for sucking it up until the last minute, so hopefully he can get some guest rappers (common, talib?) so he can focus on what he does best, producing. PREVIEW THE SINGLES! Kanye West - Can't Tell Me Nothing: Download Kanye West - Stronger: Download

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Music Review: 50 Cent - "Straight To The Bank" and "Amusement Park"

Dillon Doyle — Sat, 12 May 2007 10:02:02 EDT

First of all I am sorry for posting about 50 Cent, so let me first say this: I do believe fiddy is a good rapper, and I have high expectations for his upcoming album. Therefore, I am going to write a review of the singles "Straight To The Bank" and "Amusement Park."After taking a few years off to work on his movie career 50 Cent is back, and still as hard-core as ever. 50 Cent's new album is entitled Curtis, his real first name (real gansta' if you ask me). One can already pre-order the album, which is set to release June 26th. Curtis will surely be a success on the Clear Chanel charts, but the question is if Curtis will actually contain decent rap. It is rumored to have a "souly" sound, which will help make this an excellent album. It already has an A-list group of celebrity appearances; Eminem will be featured on the track "Peep Show," and Dr. Dre produced the single, just to name a few. The first released single is entitled "Straight To The Bank." This track, produced by Ty Fife and Dr. Dre, has an excellent beat. The song starts off sounding like another "Candy Shop," but it rapidly turns into an ode to the classics (I think it sounds like a Biggie beat). The song is about money, but don't start bantering on how rappers only talk about money and ho's; 50 Cent said in an interview "Straight To The Bank" is the only song about money. So look forward to 17 songs about Ho's! Overall "Straight To The Bank" is a sure fire chart topper, and a well rounded song.The second single "Amusement Park" is not quite as good as the previously stated. "Amusement Park" sort of makes me queezy, much like an actual amusement park. The beat is really choppy, and sounds unfinished. Besides that problem, the song is a real jem! Preview Tracks 50 Cent - Straight To The Bank: Download 50 Cent - Amusement Park: Download

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Smashing Pumpkins to Regroup, Tour

Dillon Doyle — Mon, 2 Apr 2007 08:07:56 EDT

The Smashing Pumpkins are going on tour! Billy Corgan is not only a legend but he has made rock history. With the release of their many albums, the Smashing Pumpkins defined mid nineties music. The Smashing Pumpkins' first album, Gish, was not a huge commercial success; it had a ton of punk overtones, and was not very nice on the ear. So, on their second album, Siamese Dream, Corgan and the band completely reinvented their sound, creating a pleasurable, rockish alt, album. Siamese Dream contains many classics such as "Today," and "Disarm." After the success of Siamese Dream, the Pumpkins quickly produced a follow up album, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. It has got to be Corgan's best, and most impressive piece of work. The mega album spans two discs, with 28 songs. Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness has countless hits, and some “misses.” (I say misses because the average user will not find some of the songs audibly pleasing). Billy pushed his lyrics to the limit, and truly changed music for the better. Following Mellon Collie the Pumpkins released many albums, most notably Adore. This time period was characterized by a rocky band, and a new sound (Adore shied away from metal, and delved into electronica). Finally, in 2000, Corgan and the pumpkins played their last concert, that is, until now. On June 25th, 2005, Billy Corgan put out a full page ad, announcing the reunion of the band. After two years it is finally happening. You can buy tickets, from their website. Listen to the best songs off of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, and Siamese Dream, courtesy of dillonMP3.com. Smashing Pumpkins - "Tonight Tonight": Download Smashing Pumpkins - "Zero": Download Smashing Pumpkins - "Thirty Three": Download Smashing Pumpkins - "Today": Download Smashing Pumpkins - "Disarm": Download Smashing Pumpkins - "Bullet With Butterfly Wings": Download

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Music Preview: Fergie - The Dutchess

Dillon Doyle — Sun, 17 Sep 2006 09:39:06 EDT

Fergie's new album The Dutchess drops in stores September 19. The Dutchess is Ferg's much anticipated solo debut. The album is typical Black-Eyed Peas (not surprising since it's produced by them). It has booty shakin' beats, and head boppin' choruses. The CD also has its fair share of slow jams, all of which flow very nicely. The first single off of this one is called "London Bridge". It has made a splash in the pop world, and is currently in iTunes' top ten. If you didn't know already, I hate the FCC, they can go fuck themselves. I hate it how they make artists change their lyrics. Fergie is fully aware of this (can you say, "let's get retarded"?). "London Bridge" starts off with a ranting of "ohh shit," but for the censored -- "ooh snaps." What really bugs me is that the song is subtitled "Ooh shit." iTunes of course doesn't like this, so they just omitted the "ooh shit," and now it is just "London Bridge". But enough ranting about the FCC. Here are some sample tracks!Fergie - The Dutchess - "London Bridge" Download/Stream This SongThis song kicks ass. It is a total booty shaker. If you liked "My Humps" you will love this one. Fergie really brings it with her chorus, and the beginning chanting is infectious. The video and her performances are really funny. She did lose weight, but she still dances like a broke stripper. But I still love her!Fergie - The Dutchess - "Fergalicious" Download/Stream This SongThe anthem to Fergie's life. This song has a faster beat to it. Will.I.Am also makes an appearance. Like I said above, this whole album is just like a BEP album, but not quite as good. This is probably going to be her next single, and I predict that it will tear up the charts. Can't wait till the album drops, then we can really see what she's got!Fergie - The Dutchess - "Clumsy" Download/Stream This SongThis one has a slower, more intimate feeling. It has a great beat. This song really shows off Fergie's vocal guns. I wonder how long it takes her to get through airport security? (Pardon my really crappy pun, I had to say it!) Anyways this is a killa' song.

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Music Preview : Beck - The Information

Dillon Doyle — Tue, 5 Sep 2006 05:53:55 EDT

So one of my all time favorite artists, Beck, has been working on a new album. The Information is due in stores October 3. This much anticipated new album is a mix of indie alt, hip-hop, and other random sounds. If any other person tried to meld these sounds into some sort of fusion it, would fail completely. But that's the genius of Beck.No one else has a sound like his. He is completely original! The single "Nausea" was recently released on iTunes. The single has not been a stunning success, though. In fact, it isn't even in the top 100. I think once the CD is released, though, it will be the top seller. My favorite song so far is "Cell Phone Is Dead". Here is the music: Beck - "Nausea" [2:59m]:DownloadThis song is a mix of hip-hop and alternative. It is totally Beck. I think the next song is better, BUT this is still a really good song. I like the chorus of this one -- it is really catchy. Beck - "Cell Phone Is Dead" [4:43m]: DownloadBy far my favorite song, "Cell Phone Is Dead" is a catchy, upbeat jam. Beck really brings it with this track. I think this should have been his iTunes single. It would have sold better. Beck - "We Dance Alone" [3:57m]: DownloadThis is another good song off of the album. I really like it. I hope the rest of the CD sounds like this. Beck - "Sexx Laws" (remix) [6:04m]: Download So I don't know if this is actually on the CD, but I love this song anyway. This remix really highlights the good sections of the song. Very good!

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.

Music Preview: Justin Timberlake - Future Sex/Love Sounds

Dillon Doyle — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 15:23:19 EDT

There has been much hype surrounding the release of Justin Timberlake's much anticipated new album, Future Sex/Love Sounds. People in the music business have been talking about how this new album will "save" the music industry. The music industry is in a state of disarray. Big wigs hope and pray Future Sex/Love Sounds will sell enough to make up for profits lost to downloading and online content. Personally, I think the music industry needs to adapt to these changes and take full advantage of an online lifestyle. But enough about the music industry, here is the skinny:Justin Timberlake's Future Sex/Love Sounds is set to release on September 12, 2006. Tracks include: 1. "FutureSex/LoveSound" 2. "SexyBack" (featuring Timbaland) 3."Sexy Ladies/Let Me Talk to You Prelude" 4."My Love" (featuring T.I.) 5."LoveStoned/I Think She Knows Interlude" 6."What Goes Around.../...Comes Around Interlude" 7."Chop Me Up" (featuring Timbaland & Three 6 Mafia)" 8."Damn Girl" (featuring will.i.am) 9."Summer Love/Set the Mood Prelude" (featuring will.i.am) 10."Until the End of Time" (featuring The Benjamin Wright Orchestra) 11."Losing My Way" 12."(Another Song) All Over Again" 13."Pose" (featuring Snoop Dogg)iTunes Exclusive:"Boutique in Heaven"U.K. Edition:"(Another Song) All Over Again" "What Goes Around.../...Comes Around Interlude""SexyBack" (featuring Timbaland) "Crowd Control" (featuring Nelly Furtado)"Lines" (featuring Timbaland)"The One You Have Not Seen""Help Me Breath""Lose Your Way" (featuring Mario)"Nocturne" (featuring India.Arie)"I Walk Alone" "No Connection""The Darkest Childe""My Love" (featuring T.I.)"You're Tongue Like the Sun In My Mouth"Unreleased Tracks"Take Away Your Love""Floatin'" (featuring Charlie Wilson & will.i.am)And now for the music... Justin Timberlake : "Summer Love/Set The Mood Prelude"Listen Now: (stream at dillonmp3.com) Justin Timberlake : "Summer Love/Set The Mood Prelude" [6:24m]: | DownloadDefinitely the worst song I have heard off of his new album, Future Sex, Love Sounds. This one is an R Kelly-esque ballad of slowness. Not my fave, but I am posting it because people LOVE J.T. Judge it for yourself. Justin Timberlake ft Timbaland & Three 6 Mafia: "Chop Me Up"Listen Now: (stream at dillonmp3.com) Justin Timberlake ft Timbaland & Three 6 Mafia : "Chop Me Up" [5:04m]: | DownloadAlso from the new album. I think this is yet another hit. This one features Three 6 Mafia, so it has a gansta edge. But I like it. Very good, Justin.Justin Timberlake - "Future Sex, Love Sounds"Listen Now: (stream at dillonmp3.com) Justin Timberlake - "Future Sex, Love Sounds" [4:02m]: | DownloadThe title track to his album. I predict a hith, and you know e keeps churning them out. I really recommend downloading this mp3 and buying the album when it is released. Justin Timberlake - "My Love" ft. T IListen Now: (stream at dillonmp3.com) Justin Timberlake - "My Love" ft. T I [4:36m]: | DownloadAnother great track from the new CD. Is it me or every time you say, or write, the title it goes the opposite: Future Love, Sex Sounds? I think this is a Freudian thing: sex sounds. So dirty. Now I want to do my mom (kidding!).

Dillon Doyle is an avid blogger. His main blog is DillonMP3.