There are so many musical thoughts that end up on Twitter that, if I weren’t so lazy, could probably be extended into slightly longer paragraphs on the blog. I caught myself spending too much time on Twitter again this week when I could have been blogging. NO MORE!

There are things I really want to talk about, like the new Sophie Ellis-Bextor Song of the Year “Bittersweet”, or the amazing new album from Delphic (among other things I’ve got almost ready to go), but in the meantime, there’s all of this that’s going through my head.

The new Groove Armada album “Black Light” is quite rapidly going from being a three-and-a-half-star album to a near five-star one. It seems to be the most consistent album from them to date; “Look Me In The Eye Sister” is like 60’s psychedelia meets trance, “I Won’t Kneel” featuring SaintSaviour is one of their best singles so far, and Will Young (who’s still looking mighty fine and was tops in Skins, wasn’t he?) collaboration “History” and the Fenech Sole “Paper Romance” are actually perfect, aren’t they? Top stuff, I should do a proper review of it soon actually.

The debut Cassette Kids album is also incredible and, I think, will surprise a few of their doubters. Quality from start to finish, review and A NEW interview with the guys coming soon. Also, the new Rogue Traders single “Would You Raise Your Hands?” goes to radio tomorrow morning from 7AM – you’ll finally all get to hear what I’ve been banging on about for so long. It’s tops, can’t wait for everyone else to be in love with it too.

Telephone tomorrow. OMG…

The new MGMT single song abortion is so all over the place that I barely got through the whole thing. 4 minutes and 16 seconds should not feel like a really disjointed 40 minute megamix gone horribly wrong. It’s like they had 10 really good (unfinished) ideas for some great songs, and just put it all together in one. Disappointing. Make your own judgements on it though, it’s available – legally – for free over here.

The same goes for the brand new Princess Superstar single, “Ground Control.” I have a really big gripe with people whispering; it’s not a pretty sound but can be carried off quite well in very small doses in some pop songs. Every verse in this however is whispered. It grates so much that you’re just waiting eagerly for the chorus, but then – of course – it really doesn’t feel like it was worth the wait al all. And the wait has been five years for new material from this lady. It’s really upsetting because I have loved EVERYTHING she’s done in the past and not just the highly underrated “My Machine” LP from 2005. She’s an incredible entertainer live and has the smarts to pen a perfect song. Unfortunately, this is far from perfect, but I’m hoping there’s a lot more to her upcoming album “The Next Evolution” than this insinuates. Also being offered as a free download on her MySpace, if you’re interested. Immediately after you hear it for yourself, listen to this, or this, and tell me that I’m not disappointed for a reason. She doesn’t need to make an electro-fused record for me to be happy, it just needs to be good.

The new Sugababes album, “Shit 7″… I don’t think I need to say any more actually.

Blog-commenter J responded to my Ke$ha/3OH!NO remark on last weeks eTunes post by offering a link to a Ke$ha-only, 3OH-FREE version of “Blah Blah Blah.” Thank GOD. Find it here… Thanks J!

There’s a lot going on at the moment in regards to the closure of BBC’s 6 Music radio station, and whilst I’m not going to even attempt to talk about (Popjustice have done a pretty good job of that, here, here and here), it reminded me a little of the near-10-year battle Hitz FM suffered through when it was running for a full time license in Melbourne between the years of 1992 and 2001. You can read more about the station (which was never granted that full time broadcasting license) here, it pretty much cemented my passion for dance music and radio during my ‘formative years’ and the uproar being caused RE: the 6 Music closure has just brought all of those incredible, but now somewhat upsetting, memories back.

Cheryl Tweedy chose her words incorrectly during an International TV appearance and scared the shit out of hundreds of millions of their fans. It’s all been cleared up now (Cheryl’s NOT leaving Girls Aloud, nor has she left), but I really feel like we’ve gotten to a point where I almost couldn’t care less about any more Cheryl material OR Nadine’s new album because it’s all just getting in the way of having my 2010 Album of the Year picked out for me in the form of a Girls Aloud release. Bitches I am OVER this shit.

It’s been 10 years since The Avalanches released their debut album “Since I Left You”. Preposterous. Get on with it boys, who do you think you are, Kate Bush? If only it had been a 10 year wait in between Wolfmother albums… Aah yes, what a simpler world it would be.

Hopefully I’ll see you there.

Last night I had the privilege of sitting with Rogue Traders co-founder James Ash and having a listen to a bunch of demos for the bands upcoming album, their fourth overall and their first since Natalie Bassinghthwaighte’s departure.

Here’s the thing; it’s really, really good. Some of these unfinished demos sound more fresh and exciting than most of the things on the charts at the moment; I’d even go as far as saying there are some moments so spectacular that they trump certain key-points found on the bands last two albums.

All the stories you’ve heard about it being a dance record are bang on. If you were at all deterred by lead single “Love Is A War”, then you’ll be pleased to know it’s probably one of the less instant moments among the new tracks.  It’s also the least straight-up-dance moment as well; there are spikey club-cuts throughout, with mild nods and references to everyone from Blondie, Phil Oakey, the Sugababes (v2.0) and even Madonna. In fact, the new Rogue Traders album is a bit like Richard X meeting up with Rachel Stevens and Lene Lovich in a thumping nightclub.

“Ease Your Mind” is, as James described it to me, like the Sugababes having it off with Justice. Think of “Whatever Makes You Happy” and then essentially times it by 10. One of the more instant moments, the glam-rock meets synth-overdrive of “Would You Raise Your Hands”, was an immediate favourite and is about musical snobbery. It’s a tongue-in-cheek, arms-aloft club-pop banger that smells like a hit single.

“Skyline” – although sounding nothing like it – is the albums answer to “In Love Again”, in the sense that it’s dreamy electro-pop with EXCELLENT lyrics. There’s also “Girl In Gold”, which is Ash’s tribute to Debbie Harry from Blondie (he told me he was staring at a poster of Deb as he penned the chorus – amazing), “America”, “So Lonely” (inspired by Britney Spears) and “Ease Your Mind.” All very, very good.

And what about Mindi Jackson, the bands new vocalist? Can she fill the shoes left vacant by Natalie? More than capable, actually. It doesn’t take long to hear that Jackson’s voice is stronger and has a lot more texture than Nat’s does; the vocal arrangements on the album are more complex and a little more experimental – a definite plus. I’ve said before that Mindi’s voice reminds me of Lene Lovich; add a very young Gwen Stefani, No Doubt-era into the mix as well. I’m actually REALLY looking forward to seeing Mindi perform with the band for the first time live on stage.

So in summary, If you were at all worried about the album; don’t be. Whether your worries were spawned by the idea you felt they couldn’t go on without Natalie, or because you didn’t quite like “Love Is A War”, cast them aside.  It’s okay to be wrong sometimes and in this case, you are.

This album will change peoples minds about the group. Within a few minutes of hearing it I’d almost forgotten about the bands past; it is ALL about the future from now on in.

UPDATE: Album Teaser available on TheirSpace.

Meet Mindi Jackson. She’s the new lead vocalist for the Rogue Traders.

Some of my fellow Van She fans that read this website might find Jackson’s voice a little familiar; in 2007, under the name Melinda Jackson, Michael and Nicky from Van She Tech took her track “Fall In Love” and gave it a corker of a re-swizz which ended up in my years-end best-of lists.

But now, Melinda is Mindi, and her first release with the Rogue Trader crew is the drum ‘n bass hybrid-pop stomper, “Love Is A War,” which sounds like Lene Lovich having it off in a dark alley-way with No Doubt’s back catalogue. Never a bloody bad thing.

Double hand-claps? CHECK. Amazing outfit? CHECK. Excellent hair-styling? CHECK. Non-offensive rap? CHECK. Ability to dance in very high heels and look effortlessly fabulous? CHECK. Of course, the less said about the food fight scenes the better; I have this incredible phobia of food touching my skin. Don’t ask.

I am COMPLETELY on board for this next, exciting phase of the Rogue Traders journey. I think that, perhaps the most exciting part, is the fact that Mindi looks more than comfortable in the group, whether it be in the clip or on the (usually) painstakingly boring Sunday Sunrise in an interview situation. There’s a star quality about her and yet, she’s – at the moment – not exactly a household name. The last time around, James and Co HAD a star already; but this time it’s that much different, and a whole lot more exciting.

What’s even more thrilling is the obvious appreciation both Mindi and James have for each other as artists, an appreciation that shows during that Sunrise interview – it’s effortless, there’s not a cringeworthy moment shared between the two of them, which speaks volumes I think, about the kind of guy James is, but also the kind of woman that Mindi is.

I can’t wait for the album, which is happening next year at some point. I know a few people are a bit sketchy on the track (from what I’ve read on Twitter through fellow bloggers posts, anyway) but, as per usual, there’s always something that strikes a chord with listeners on a Rogue Record. Even if you’re not necessarily keen on this first single, I can guarantee there will be something you’ll LOVE on the album. James recently told me they were working on a track that was a little bit early Sugababes. Bonza bonza bonza.

Extreme Rogue Traders/Mindi Jackson Appreciation Mania starts here.

Without further ado, it’s time to take in the news regarding the next Rogue Traders album; their first without Natalie Bassinghthwaighte since their debut record, and their first with new vocalist, the mysteriously  dubbed “X”. Kylie-Minogue-album jokes aside, X sounds like a keeper; from what James Ash has said on the forums and what-not, I have a feeling I’m going to like this person… I am speculating “X” is a female but… I could be wrong?

Speaking of James, Sir Ash got in touch with me to give me a bit of an update on what’s going on. It is news I am allowed to share with you all which I guess I’m pretty over-the-moon about. Anyway. I’ll give you the rundown in point form.

* It’s been 17 months almost to the day since Nat left the band.

* James is well aware – and prepared – for the idea of losing some old fans, but also gaining some as well. FYI; those of you who are more inclined to favour the Rogues’ first album, the Natalie-free “We Know What You’re Up To”, might see all of this is as a very, very good thing. I know I certainly do.

* It’s, quote; “definitely a dance record this time.”

* The first single is “like Drum and Bass punk.” Mmm, this sound Brilliant.

* James was offered a fortune last year to do a TV show to find a new singer for the band. When the executives asked him what he wanted out of his career, it seems “I want to make great records I’m proud of” was not the answer they were looking for. Can’t imagine why…

* People have actually tried telling him how much like Natalie they are in order to get their foot into the band. This would have to be the most hilarious and yet highly offensive thing I have heard for some time. Do you reckon these people actually think about how stupid they might sound if they open their mouths with this kind of garbage? Evidently not it would seem.

* The identity of “X” should be revealed soon. “We’ll be popping out from behind that curtain in just over a month.”

So there you go, bit of news to tide you over until the big announcement. I’m thoroughly excited. The kind of excited I was when I heard Natalie has recorded Voodoo Child with the guys. Rogues v3.0 already feels right, and yet I have bugger-all idea who the person fronting it is…

In news that has excited me to no end, the Rogue Traders’ (whose line-up changes are beginning to rival that of the Sugababes) James Ash has announced the band have finally found a new lead vocalist, replacing that one off-of So You Think You Can Dance/MOR pop songs of 2009.

The replacement, currently only known as “X”, has posted over on the official Rogue Traders forum; read what they’ve got to say for themselves.

Some “general thoughts” on the matter:

> “X” is, hopefully, not going to follow the same fate Kylie Minogue’s “X” followed; three people buying the record worldwide. I’m confident this won’t be the case.

> Someone on the Rogue Traders forum has suggested it is Micky Green. That would actually be really great.

> If it is her though, does that mean she too is going to fuck off once she’s gotten too big for her boots to do the solo thing? I’M NOT SURE MY BLOOD PRESSURE COULD HANDLE THAT AGAIN.

> Whoever it is, I’m quite sure this is going to be heaps better than the previous incarnation.

> And, for that matter, heaps better than this, whose video clips continue to give me heartburn.

> Both Rogue Traders and Sugababes have songs named “Overload.”

> Rogues’ “Overload” has aged very, very well and would be an amazing comeback single for the Sugababes, which they would – obviously – have to rename to “Switch To Overload.” Nonetheless, it’s a bit of a masterstroke genius idea and I’d like both parties involved to somehow get in touch with one another.

> Also, it would probably have to be sped up a little bit.

> Actually, forget all of that; can I make an official request that this song be dug-up again for the next wave of Rogue Trader shows? KTHXBYE.

> In all seriousness, It’ll be really nice to come back to the Rogue Traders project with what is definitely going to be a new lease of life, and I wish them all the bloody best, because if anyone deserves it more now, it’s Jamie, Stevie, Melinda and “X.”

Once more news come to official hand, I’ll keep you posted…

NATALIE BASSINGHTHWAIGHTE
1,000 Stars
[SONYBMG] C+

When Natalie Bassinghthwaighte left the Rogue Traders to persue her solo career/read autocue on live television, few outside of the bands hardcore fan-base were surprised. The followers, however, were left high and dry after promises from Natalie months earlier that she would concentrate on a solo career and remain as a Rogue Trader. And even though there are a number of people still a little annoyed, still harbouring a smidge of resentment toward her and the way she departed (myself definitely included), it’s been hard to escape Bassingthwaighte-fever since the beginning of 2009. Almost 9 months after Nat’s departure announcement, Bas delivers this, her largely anticipated solo debut album effort 1,000 Stars.

It’s certainly no LoveAngelMusicBaby, and debut single “Alive” is most definitely no “What You Waiting For” (the absolute benchmark for a debut solo single for a female pop star who’s come into light through another musical project), but there’s some incredibly strong material on this album; you just have to make it through the records first five songs before you find it. Opening with the Xenomania-inspired “Catch Me If You Can”, it’s all a little too familiar and, as the four songs which follow do as well, comes across as sounding a little too safe. Second single “Someday Soon” still goes completely over my head, upcoming single “1,000 Stars” is nice enough, but really, we’re more than content with the one Delta Goodrem, Natalie. What’s worse, “Not For You” sounds like it should be sung by Katy Perry or Avril Lavigne circa-2002. Skip-skip-skip; it’s possibly the most horrific thing NatBas has put her name to.

Things (finally) pick up with “Feel The Flow”, which (tellingly, perhaps) is one of two tracks on 1,000 Stars which sound most like Nat and her former Roguey bandmates. “Could You Be Loved” is incredibly immense; think Geri Halliwell’s epic trance-romantic stomper “Love Never Loved Me” meets Giorgio Mororder – a class act, and the darkest moment on Stars.

“Supersensual” is spikey-as-hell, combining a Swedish-pop production sound together with an obvious homage to Blondie, whilst “Why Do I” takes on that all-too-familiar Timbaland sound that ran rampant throughout 2007 and 2008, yet meshes it into a slick, ballad format which works incredibly well. “Turn The Lights On” is Eurovision ready, whilst “This Can’t Be Love” is probably the best moment on here. No surprises then that this is the second one that reminds you of her former pop incarnation.

At the end of it all, this is a solid pop album. There’s some absolute rubbish on here, and three okay-to-terrible single choices, but overall, NatBas has certainly done a more than decent job of this.

Your call now, Rogue Traders. Who, may I remind you, have only ever evoked A-and-above grade reviews from me for all three of their albums.