Twenty One Pilots Live @ O2 Academy Oxford - 7/11/2015

This was unlike any concert I have ever been to, there was an electric energy in the air that kept everyone on edge in the best of ways. I've never danced for so long in my life, and didn't know that I was physically capable of it (and the aches and pains that followed would say that I'm really not). Every single person in that room enjoyed the show and were emotionally invested in the whole thing, as someone who'd been queuing since 11:30 finally getting into the venue was insane.

Interview with The Score

Pop duo The Score shot into the limelight after ASDA used their song 'Oh My Love' in their advert. It took the #1 spot on the Spotify UK Viral Chart and the #4 spot on the iTunes UK pop charts, going on to become the second most Shazam'd song in the UK. Following the success of the single the band were signed to Republic Records and following the release of their EP they played their first UK show at The Borderline in London. Sonically similar to bands like OneRepublic, American Authors and The Script, their EP showcases their feel-good, get up and dance vibe. The duo is made up of Eddie Anthony, vocals and guitar, and Edan Dover, keys and production, I was lucky enough to organise an interview with them before the show and was struck by how down-to-earth they are.

Murder - Colton Avery

As you know, I'm a massive fan of Colton Avery who has just released his most recent song - Murder. And it does not disappoint in any way. After touring with The Script fans were anxiously awaiting the music they'd heard on stage, then came the disappearance of all Colton's old music from iTunes and Spotify which had everyone excited for what must be coming soon. When I saw this was out there, I honestly nearly fell off my chair in a rush to listen to this song.

Blurryface - Twenty One Pilots

Although this album may not be a brand new release, I couldn't not write a review. For some strange reason I have only just discovered the brilliance of Twenty One Pilots, I'm just glad I finally have because they really are amazing. Quirky and individual, their sound stands out from others and really can't be labelled. There isn't anyone, as far as I know, making music like this. I feel it's my duty to make sure as many people as possible listen to their music, it's something you can't miss out on.

Singing For Strangers - Hudson Taylor

I really love this duo. Two brothers from Ireland, formerly known as Harry and Alfie and now known as 'Hudson Taylor'. I've loved watching these two grow from their little YouTube videos and busking to seeing where they are today with such a well-put together album. It's brilliant and really captures their whole vibe.

Weatherman - Colton Avery

I am in love with Colton Avery. No lie. Not only is he a super talented singer, but a really lovely guy too. Always willing to reply to direct messages and seems nothing more than thankful for the support he's getting. He's currently touring with The Script and thankfully being introduced to Script fans around the world which is only helping to boost his fame and put smiles on our faces. The only thing that really sucks - no new music.

This Summer's Gonna Hurt Like A Motherf***er - Maroon 5

I'll admit, when I fist saw the title of their next single I was a little sceptical about where Maroon 5 were going. Since their first alum 'Songs About Jane' their sound has developed and changed massively, both winning and losing them fans.

Native - OneRepublic

'Native' is the third studio album from OneRepublic and it does not disappoint. For fans that have followed the band since the beginning, each album is a progression and 'Native' is no different. With that collection of talent it really is a beautiful thing.
Each song stands out, there is not a single thing I dislike about the album. The whole thing seems to say 'carpe diem', if I was to sum up the message from the album this would be what stands out. But more importantly, each song, although with a special meaning to the members who wrote it, is completely adaptable to the listener and their own thoughts and experiences.
Ryan Tedder, the lead singer of OneRepublic and the undercover King of Pop behind countless number ones, has pulled it out of the bag with the help of the other members of the band (Brent, Zach, Eddie and Drew). Not only are the melodies and lyrics beautiful, but his voice is like an angel. I honestly feel like OneRepublic is God's gift to man, the whole lot of them are incredibly talented and bring an individual and loved sound to the market.
One of my favourite features of the album has to be the cello, brought in by Brent Kutzle and performed flawlessly throughout; it is an amazing touch. Personally, without Brent and his cello, I don't think OneRepublic would be the same.
This album really showcases the band's talent, from feel good songs like 'I Lived' and 'Counting Stars' to songs that make your insides melt like 'Something's Gotta Give' and 'Au Revoir'. Each song is perfect in it's own way and I honestly couldn't choose a favourite. Like I said, Ryan Tedder's voice blows me away, some times I seriously doubt that a noise so pure could be someone's voice. Well, after seeing them live twice I can say that it does. (I will make at least one post on that at a later date!) The song's are instantly recognisable, 'Counting Stars' being a great example of this, you can't help singing along and dancing, no matter how bad your dancing is.
Definitely buy this album if you haven't already because it will knock your socks off. It is a must hear album and if you are a fan, you need to see these guys live; there is NOTHING like it. If you are one of the lucky few who live in one of the places where OneRepublic are visiting on their extended Native Tour, get out and buy tickets. If not, keep your eyes peeled because they are currently working on album no. 4 and if the rumours are to be believed then that should be arriving around November this year.

 

Fun Fact : Each animal represents one of the band members :D Think you can guess who is what?