Madonna - "What It Feels Like For A Girl"

"What It Feels Like For A Girl" was from Madonna's last great album (IMHO) 'Music'.... I think she has had some moments since, but 'Music' was a truly great album. "What It Feels Like For A Girl" even has a sample from 'The Cement Garden' movie, featuring the voice of Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Back to the song and the album..... oh, the video has been muted, by the record company I presume, and because there is nothing else on youtube other than remixes etc. - I seem to be wasting my time. So I apologise to them for trying to promote their artist and I promise I won't do it again.
So let's carry on with 'The Cement Garden' instead. The film was an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Ian McEwan. Directed by Charlotte's uncle Andrew Birkin... so it is keeping it in the family in more than just subject matter. I haven't seen the film but have read the book. The novel is definitely not for everyone but if you love modern fiction and don't mind a story dealing with a taboo subject - this one is for you. Although, I haven't yet found an Ian McEwan novel that has disappointed me.



The Cement Garden trailer



Oh the irony!


I love the irony here. The video has been muted because it includes the Madonna audio track. But the reason it was even put here on youtube is because Madonna borrowed part of the original film's audio (legally) for her song. However, the copyright owner of the music has stopped us even hearing the original film audio they borrowed.... priceless!

She's So Rad - "Better Off On Your Own"

She's So Rad are an Auckland band who have recently released their second album 'Tango' and it's something quite special. It's been the go-to album since trialling the new Apple Music streaming service. She's So Rad are actually a duo featuring Jeremy Toy and Anji Sami (Anji is also a member of The Sami Sisters). The album is a mixture of 80's synth, Swervedriver, 90's Alt rock and a bit of something from the current indie music scene. The opener, and earlier single, "Levels" is a catchy indie/pop song that has constantly been on Bitter FM playlists from the day it arrived on the Kiwi Hit Disc. On "Better Off On Your Own" they bring the 80's synth sound to the fore. Jeremy Toy and Anji Sami have both been making music for a while now - but I honestly think they bring out the best in each other creatively as a duo.

Jamie xx - "Loud Places" (ft Romy)

There is no doubt that the new album from Jamie xx is anything but excellent, but for me it's the guest appearances from fellow 'The xx' band members that got me interested. "Loud Places" featuring Romy on vocals is like a little gift while we wait for their new album.