2PLAY (FEAT MAXI PRIEST, MONI, JUXCI D) - THATS WHAT THE GIRLS LIKE
In case the name 2Play (real name Wesley Johnson) doesn’t ring a bell, he is a successful record producer, has enjoyed top ten success in the UK with two hits (‘So Confused’ in 2003 followed by ‘It Can’t Be Right’ in 2004) and has even been the recipient of a MOBO award. However, he is perhaps, rather tragically, best known for his involvement in an ill-advised cover and RnB remix of George Michael classic “Careless Whisper” back in 2005.Now, five years later, he is back with new single “That’s What The Girls Like.” ‘What has he been DOING for five years?!’ I hear you cry. Well, apart from a less than successful single in 2007 ‘Close To You’, he has been pursuing an altogether different dream of Cage Fighting, chasing after the cage fighting championship. He has now taken a step out of the ring in order to revive his musical career once again.
The single itself is harmless; mildly catchy but a bit bland, certainly repetitive and even sounding a little outdated. 2Play has teamed up with old mates Maxi Priest, Juxci D and Moni for the track, who have all been involved with his previous projects. His mix of RnB beats, smooth vocals and reggae undertones will make this tune a sure-fire bump n grind hit on certain dance floors but will more than likely struggle to make much of an impact on the UK chart
CLUB SMITH - THE LOSS E.P.
And the reminiscence begins. Chimed into a thoughtful look at what 'The Loss' EP has in store through opening track, 'Lament'. Taking your senses back to every festival you have ever been to, through a connection of beat and melody, cleverly wrapped up in glockenspiel. The guitars and massive projection of vocals set the scene for the attachment, and thought processes that Club Smith have exposed through, 'The Loss'.
The well structured instrumental abilities, and powerful vocals, instantly make Club Smith the perfect band to grace the festival stage's that 2010 have to offer. These songs were meant to be blown out into the night, in front of a sea of dancing wellington fairies. It is difficult to believe that such an interesting and individual band, with the tight musical standard that Club Smith boasts, were formed only a short time ago in 2009.
Showing their variability, in the slightly darker tone set in proceeding track 'Courtyard'. Raising chin's with their ability to mix thick, deep guitars, with simple synth waves. Using notably catchy, echoing vocals, allowing them to take over your thought processes. This EP states the obvious, which is to fully understand Club Smith, you need to see them live.
Final tracks, 'Connected' and 'No friend of mine', play on stereotypes through personal experience. Giving a chance to show that as a band, they can put across these emotions simply, but most effectively. With a second EP due to come out in summer, Club Smith will no doubt, be one of the bands to watch out for in 2010. 'The Loss' has depth, without being hard to understand. An exciting EP from a band I hope we see more of this year.