B.o.B. - The Adventures of Bobby Ray

At a time when the music industry is filled with so many differing artists emerging everyday, it becomes increasingly difficult to stand out and make a name for oneself. Though the diversity continues to expand, B.o.B. has found no trouble in setting himself apart and announcing his entrance into the industry. The debut album of Atlanta local Bobby Ray Simmons truly shows how talented he is and raises the bar for other artists to reach.

“B.o.B. Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray” is an album that has the ability of appealing to a vast number of tastes, while remaining true to one distinct style. With no two songs sounding alike, there is one to suit every mood and every personality. From head-bobbing beats to catchy chords and riffs, B.o.B. expresses himself with non-commercial, meaningful lyrics that explain his story to success. Songs like “Ghost In the Machine” and “The Kids” illustrate the difficulties faced in societies today, while others like “Nothing On You,” “Magic” and “I’ll Be In the Sky” are much more upbeat and get everyone singing along.

The hit song “Airplanes” is what he is most recognized for and it is one of the biggest songs of the year. When songs are as successful as his are, it is then no surprise that he works and tours with headlining artists including Eminem, Haley James, Lupe Fiasco and Bruno Mars. The album is a true depiction of his creativity and musicianship, with B.o.B. playing piano, guitar and trumpet, as well as rapping and producing, demonstrating a higher level of artistry that is yet to be seen among other artists in the industry.

Aliena Haig

3OH3 - Streets of Gold

The band that brought us 'Don’t Trust Me' are back. And they’re back with a whole new flavour. When Green Day teenage rebel anthems meet the Klaxons, throw in a few sound effects and you get 3OH!3’s new album “Streets of Gold.” Feisty, passionate and fist-pumping are just a few of the words that come to mind when listening to this album.

With a variety of synths, drum beats and various noises, including kissing sounds, whistles and beeps, “Streets of Gold” is full of surprises. You can never guess what will come next or how the song will develop, as each song takes an unexpected turn. One thing that is consistent though, is the driving beat behind every song, pushing them through to the end. Singing with Kesha and Katy Perry, 3OH!3 (pronounced “3 oh 3”) are quickly emerging within the industry and are certainly standing out with chanting lyrics that allow for no misinterpretations.

“Starstrukk” and “My First Kiss,” similar to “Don’t Trust Me” are packed with lyrics that verge on being disrespectful, but the fact that they are easy to learn and are combined with fun rhythms makes them popular when listening to them with a big group of people. Though not one of te top ranking albums of the year, 3OH!3 are not to be neglected and definitely bring something fresh to our ears.

Aliena Haig

(Never Mind The) Stars - France

A promising start and a welcomed finish, but 'France' manages to make a catchy tune quickly become repetitive and monotonous. Of the thirty seconds one could initially enjoy, the single offers nothing enticing, except for providing a little amusement when listening to the lyrics. It does achieve “non-pretentious musical fun,” but if not eating the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream that the single will soon help advertise, this is one to skip over when on shuffle.

Aliena Haig