The Barricade Babes 12/30/22 The Barricade Babes 12/30/22

The Barricade Babes’ Top 5 Albums of 2022

The albums of 2022 that shaped our year.

The Weeknd’s Dawn FM

Dawn FM is a pure masterpiece. Starting with the intro track straight into “Gasoline”, from that point on there could be no wrong. Personally, I’ve loved every single project The Weeknd has put out, so maybe I’m a little biased, but I truly think he fucking killed it. I’m a sucker for a concept album and this one takes the definition to a whole new level. Tesfaye has said in interviews that listening to the album is sort of like an adult contemporary radio station as you sit in a traffic jam in the tunnel, only the tunnel is purgatory and the light at the end of the tunnel is death. It seems like each piece of work he puts out gets better and better each time and what more can you ask for as an artist, or fan receiving the music? The whole idea to conceptually make the record into a radio station is genius. Not only that, but having Jim Carrey as the DJ? Yeah, Abel Tesfaye has officially won at life. Carrey even came out of retirement to be a part of the project, which just goes to show how even more special it really is. The decision to feature Lil Wayne and Tyler, The Creator was the perfect choice, they both made excellent additions. The legendary Quincy Jones makes an appearance on “A Tale By Quincy”, in which he goes into a story about childhood and reflection, “Looking back is a bitch, innit?”. It’s the kind of record that makes you rethink everything you’ve ever done and all that surrounds you. Listening to it is a pretty surreal experience no matter if it’s the first or 50th time. Whenever I think of my favorite albums, they’re always those that I can play at any time or however many times and never tire of them. I had the chance to see The Weeknd in concert in Atlanta this August. These songs played live is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. There is so much powerful emotion put forth into each one that is honestly breathtaking. Taking what is created in the studio to the stage can sometimes be a tricky transition, but the execution was phenomenal. I can’t wait to see what else he does in the new year.

2. Harry Styles’ Harry’s House

*Harry’s House*
Harry Styles
Photo credit: Hanna Moon

Ever since I can remember, Harry Styles has been a constant in my life. Whatever I’ve gone through, good or bad, he’s been there. Whether it was in One Direction or now as a solo artist, I know that I can always count on his music to get me through those situations. Harry’s House was no different. His voice has been an important staple for many young girls, now women, across the world for over a decade. In a way, he is this generation’s Elvis. There’s no doubt about it. The songs, charisma, classic style, he’s got it all. This album was a turning point for Styles. He proved himself with his self-titled solo debut as an artist to be taken seriously. Fine Line gave a deeper look into the mind of the pop phenomenon. Songs like “Matilda”, “Keep Driving”, and “Boyfriends” on this latest release, which are some of my favorites, give his audience even more insight into the inner workings of the man behind the fame. The things that he has to say are important, especially for women to hear coming from such a powerful voice as the one Styles has. His lyrics make us feel seen and appreciated, which means the world and goes far. “Matilda, you talk of the pain like it's all alright / But I know that you feel like a piece of you's dead inside / You showed me a power that is strong enough to bring sun to the darkest days / It's none of my business, but it's just been on my mind”. Long-time collaborators Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson definitely have the recipe for success when it comes to catchy pop songs that launch into superstardom. Another one of my favorite tracks on the record is “Cinema”, a cheeky song about a budding romance and the excitement of discovering someone new. The nod to Joni Mitchell’s 1975 “Harry’s House/Centerpiece” for the title of the record was the perfect touch in my opinion. Long live Harry Styles.

3. The 1975’s Being Funny in a Foreign Language

*Being Funny in a Foreign Language*
The 1975
Photo credit: Samuel Bradley

This one came as a surprise for me. I haven't really listened to The 1975 for a few years. I had the opportunity to see them in concert in November and was absolutely blown away. (This was unfortunately before Matty Healy started kissing fans in the audience. Kidding, kidding.) Being 14 in 2013 meant a lot of things. Hormones start emerging, searching for the meaning of life becomes a daily task, and for me, following everything Harry Styles did was a constant occurrence. He had made a tweet about The 1975’s song “Chocolate”, which was their first big hit. The insane (and proud of it) fan girl that I was (am), of course I listened to the song. If Harry liked it, it must be good. Honestly, that man has introduced me to a lot of good music. After the short phase I had with the band, I kind of forgot about them for awhile. Truly, I’m not sure if I would have gone to the show this year if it hadn’t been free for me. I am so, so, so happy I did though. What an experience. They are such skilled musicians and it translates both on and offstage. The world they have created for themselves is brilliant. Looking around me, I couldn’t help but think about how it felt like I was being transported back to high school. Everyone in all black with Doc Martens to complete the outfit. Being Funny in a Foreign Language has given me the words needed for the emotions that are sometimes too difficult to express. There isn’t one bad track. It’s a journey. It’s being vulnerable in all of the right ways. It’s falling in love only to realize when it fades, does it ever, really? It’s honest. “Oh Caroline” cries, “I’ve been suicidal / You’ve been gone for weeks / If I’m undecided, will you decide for me? / Baby, I’ll do anything that you wanna”. I guess I didn’t realize how much I craved more of this kind of writing. Lana Del Rey is one of the best of this generation in my opinion when it comes to barring the soul while keeping a somewhat mysterious tone at the same time. Don’t even get me started on “About You”. Holy fuck. Talk about rip my heart out. Matty Healy, you’re a sick son of a bitch, but boy do I love you.

4. Taylor Swift’s Midnights

It amazes me how Taylor Swift continues to hit the nail on the head with each record she puts out. The amount of thought and dedication that goes into each release is mind-blowing. Her marketing strategies are out of this world. Easter egg after Easter egg, there’s no telling the next journey she’s taking her fans on. I found it extremely interesting the set of collaborators taking part in this record. Jack Antonoff obviously came as no surprise, but Zoe Kravitz is someone I would have never expected to come up. I love it though. Midnights is opaque at first, it takes more than one listen to truly understand the spiral we all stumble upon when the clock strikes 12. For some, it means rest. For others like myself, and it seems for Swift as well, it’s the time the mind is finally free to roam wild with all thoughts both good and bad. The time no one else is around and all that’s left is your thoughts and what you allow them to do to you. Reminiscing, ruminating, and running from the reality placed before us. On “Sweet Nothing”, her writing dives into the intimacy of allowing someone else to see all parts of you for what they really are, “Industry disruptors and soul deconstructors / And smooth-talking hucksters out glad-handing each other / And the voices that implore ‘You should be doing more’ / To you, I can admit that I'm just too soft for all of it”. It’s a pop album for the ages, gifting a song for every feeling running through the mind at midnight. A couple of other very honorable lyric mentions on “Bejeweled”, easily one of the best songs she’s ever written, “And I miss you / But I miss sparkling”, “And when I meet the band / They ask, ‘Do you have a man?’ / I could still say, ‘I don’t remember’”. Being comfortable and feeling powerful alone can often be seen as sad by society, especially for women, but Swift is here to shut all of that shit down. Who needs a man when you can be “Bejeweled”? “Snow On The Beach” is the only featured track on the record, one which I had extremely high hopes for. Not that the song is bad, it’s really fantastic of course, I was just expecting more from two of the most enchanting voices of this generation. My hope was that LDR would have more of an input on the song, but oh well, maybe next time. All in all, Midnights is a wonderful piece of art that will be listened to for many decades and Taylor Swift remains the queen of pop.

5. Jack Harlow’s Come Home The Kids Miss You

*Come Home The Kids Miss You*
Jack Harlow

From “First Class”, a classic with his own spin on it, and a track that blew Jack Harlow into the stratosphere, the young rapper was ready to make his permanent mark. His sophomore album, Come Home The Kids Miss You, combines elements of retro hip-hop mixed with fresh rap beats that have enticed the world. Not only did he recruit talent such as Pharrell Williams and Timbaland to help produce the record, John Mayer even stepped in to add his own flavor. Harlow’s lines get harder and smoother with every song that plays along the way. Personal favorites include the bold “Dua Lipa”and “Movie Star (feat. Pharrell Williams)”. Other features from Drake “Churchill Downs”, Justin Timberlake “Parent Trap”, and Lil Wayne “Poison”, must feel surreal for Harlow, having his heroes collaborating with him on his musical journey. It’s a timeless rap album, leaving no room for the “what ifs”, only allowing the possible pleasantly surprised comment. I love the way he enunciates his words, pouring like honey into the next verse. Jack Harlow has my heart, does he have yours?

These albums shaped 2022 for me musically. And what’s life without music? Thanks for reading Babes. Can’t wait to see what albums 2023 has to offer.

Cheers,

Hannah

The Barricade Babes 6/26/22 The Barricade Babes 6/26/22

Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis” and That Rock ‘n’ Roll Feeling

Elvis Presley’s life has most likely left an impact on yours in some way whether you like it or not. His legacy lives on not only through his music, but the pop culture phenomenon that so many have known from a young age. Baz Luhrmann made a film that highlights the incredible story of a man whose love of rhythm and blues carried him all the way to the top.

HANNAH LANEY

He seemed to come out of nowhere. That young man from Memphis, Tennessee brought everything he had with him onto the stage. There was something special there and everybody knew it.

The choice of who to play this icon in a biopic of his life made the news a few years ago. Would it be Harry Styles, Miles Teller, Ansel Elgort, or maybe Austin Butler?

Ultimately, the decision was made that Butler would take on the part of The King. Fans around the world were eager to see how the young actor just might pull it off.

From a young age, Presley knew what he wanted to do with his life and exactly why he wanted to do it. His story has inspired millions and continues to do so to this day. It was the music of the gospel choirs and rhythm and blues singers that transformed him into what we know and love.

The way that Butler has described the man he had come to play was being “human”. Of course there’s a larger than life version of Elvis that has been portrayed all around the world, a caricature of sorts, but underneath all of that was a human being. It was interesting to hear Butler’s take on the experience, explaining that both he and Elvis had lost their mothers at the age of 23. He had said that this painful part of both of their lives almost connected them in a way.

Each part of the story was taken on with grace by Butler and all of the actors surrounding him. Musicians such as Yola and Gary Clark Jr. took on the roles of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup. I loved this choice of casting, especially being a fan of theirs and making the musical connection of what we have today from the past.

The scenes of Memphis in the film are magnetic, you want to literally jump right into the screen with them. B.B. King, Little Richard, Big Mama Thornton, and so many more left such an impact on Elvis and all that was to come after.

Tom Hanks plays Colonel Tom Parker, the man who made and broke Elvis’ career all at the same time. It’s a mystery who the Colonel really was, but his hold on Presley’s life is looked at through another lens in this narrative.

My personal favorite part of the movie is when Elvis decides he wants to take his career back for himself. Starting with overthrowing the directors’ ideas of his Christmas special, he sets out in a leather suit to claim his power again.

A lot of Elvis’ dreams came true in his lifetime, but there were some that did not. It’s a shame that he never had the chance to travel overseas to play for the fans there. It’s a shame that his mother passed away while he was in the service. What would be another shame is if we had never gotten to hear his music and storytelling through his art. I’m in awe of the impact Elvis Presley made on this earth. A kid from Memphis with fire in his soul, the one, the only, the King of rock ‘n’ roll.

Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis has left the building…but never the world.

The Barricade Babes 3/31/22 The Barricade Babes 3/31/22

Harry Styles Debuts New Era With “As It Was” Music Video

Harry’s House, the third studio album from Harry Styles, was announced on March 23rd. The first single from the record, “As It Was” was released at midnight in the UK on April 1st. Along with the release came a music video that has fans around the world more in love with the superstar than ever before.

Harry’s House, the third studio album from Harry Styles, was announced on March 23rd. The first single from the record, “As It Was” was released at midnight in the UK on April 1st. Along with the release came a music video that has fans around the world more in love with the superstar than ever before.

HANNAH LANEY

Credit: Harry Styles via YouTube
Directed by Tanu Muino

“As It Was”: it’s bold, exciting, and new. Everything you could want and expect nothing less from a pop icon like Mr. Harry Styles. It always amazes me how he is able to come up with something even bigger and brighter than before. Just when you think he’s hit the glass ceiling he does it again. And again, and…again.

There’s no comparison. Styles has mentioned how artists like Prince and Elton John have inspired him in the path taken in his solo career. Prince was someone who could make anything seem elegant, inviting, and exciting. “As It Was” shows the way these influences have crafted Styles’ work in a unique way.

The imagery in the video invokes an emotion out of its audience. The lyrics describe and explore a relationship “as it was”,

‘In this world, it’s just us

You know it’s not the same as it was’.

There’s running backwards, in circles, and away from a situation that no longer serves the writer. It’s coming to terms with reality and realizing it will never be the same or what they want it to be. It’s a song from a very mature and aware perspective written by someone who has only really ever dated in the spotlight.

It’s a colorful way to see the world when at times it can all seem black and white.

It’s a boy from England showing the world the way he loves with no hesitation.

Pop stars come and go, but it takes a true artist to make something that will stand the test of time. And I believe Harry Styles has done just that.

The Barricade Babes 10/29/21 The Barricade Babes 10/29/21

PLUSH’s Self-Titled Debut Album Proves Rock is Alive and Well

The all-female rock band PLUSH’s self-titled debut album is out October 29th, 2021. From the very first riff on “Athena”, the second single from the band, witnesses know these young women did not come to play. “If you’re the one, feel the power of my love” sings powerful vocalist Moriah Formica.

October 29, 2021

She rose to national fame after participating as a contestant on NBC’s The Voice. With a strong start to the 13-track collection, the next number does even more to rope you in. “Champion” takes a steady stand that continues to escalate upward throughout its three and a half minutes. Guitarist Bella Perron really shows off her chops with the sharpness in her playing towards the end of the song.

Ashley Suppa, bassist for the group, lets her passion be known as well. The first single from the group, “Hate” takes spot number three on the list. It’s catchy, raw, and everything hard rock is meant to be. What’s even better, this is only the beginning.

“Found A Way” reveals the maturity and awareness of the talented songwriters. Once again, Perron takes the audience on a ride. It’s an empowering listen and leaves the want for more. Who’s keeping the beat behind it all? Drummer Brooke Colucci proves her talent in a mesmerizing way. She and Formica first met online when they covered “Barracuda” by Heart on social media together. The two ladies were definitely meant to make music with each other.

Taking it down a few steps, “Sober” brings an emotional breakthrough halfway in. “Why can’t you fight with your demons, have they already won? Have you given up? Are you done? Tell me, are we done?”.

Softening the sound a bit and showing off her vocals even more, Formica soothes listeners with “Don’t Say That”. Closing out the album, the band takes a final stand in their independence.

The last track might be titled “Walk Away”, but that’s far from the direction PLUSH is headed in the rock world. From now on, it’s forward and beyond. It’s a story of strength, self-empowerment, and revenge. Most of all, it captures a generation led by powerful voices like those in PLUSH, who will take no prisoners.

Review written by Hannah Laney, THE BARRICADE BABES

The Barricade Babes 1/18/21 The Barricade Babes 1/18/21

Pearl Charles Looking in the ‘Magic Mirror’

A fresh introduction into the visions of experienced singer-songwriter Pearl Charles takes a reflective turn with new album.

January 18, 2021

A fresh introduction into the visions of experienced singer-songwriter Pearl Charles takes a reflective turn with new album.

**Pearl Charles *Magic Mirror* album cover / Photo by Dana Trippe**

Back in 2015, Pearl Charles released her debut self-titled EP, laying the groundwork for what was to come. Filled with songs written to show the world what kind of music she wanted to make, tracks like “You Can Change” and “I Ran so Far“ have helped establish her as a songwriter. At 18, she worked with musician Christian Lee Hutson in their band The Driftwood Singers and at 22 played drums in garage rock band The Blank Tapes. These career moves certainly didn’t hurt and soon Charles was on her way to becoming an artist of her own.

The haunting mystic element behind Pearl Charles’ music has remained consistent throughout her catalogue, an endearing quality that fans can count on for records in the future. Buzzfeed has described her sound as “a modern June Carter meets Lana Del Rey” and I couldn’t have put it better myself. The classic romanticism omitted between the lines of her work draws listeners into a world that seems familiar yet uniquely refreshing.

Each project brings new visions to the table while remaining true to her roots. 2018’s Sleepless Dreamer immediately grabs your attention, holding her music to a different standard than it previously had. Dreamy melodies mixed with catchy beats distinguish Charles not only as a talented songwriter but a potential hitmaker. The title track offers insightful lyrics like “I keep running ‘round the same old ground hoping my hand is gonna come up something other than empty, keep ending up just me”, propelling the stories in her musical diary.

**Pearl Charles, Kanine Records / Photo by Dana Trippe**

Flash forward to 2021, the stories wiser and melodies even more haunting, Magic Mirror places Charles at the top of her market. The classic country and garage rock influences are apparent fused with that 70’s disco rhythm, resulting in a piece of work that will undoubtedly capture the attention of listeners across the board. “Thought we were falling, we were just coming down” she sings on “Only for Tonight”, setting the scene for the rest of the record.

While not entirely anachronistic, Charles’ sound most definitely gives a graceful nod to musical components of previous eras. The first single, “What I Need” was inspired by The Pointer Sisters’ take on a Conway Twitty song, “Slow Hand”, already giving the album the true classic inspiration that it calls for. Listening to the magic unfold within every song is very much a look into your own reflection along the way.

When listening to music, it’s nice to have some sort of imagery accompaniment along for the ride, and Magic Mirror does not disappoint. The slow and steady “Take Your Time” brings the record to a different pace, setting a new state of mind in motion. “You were busy getting high…why don’t you open up your eyes?” The cosmic sound of the electric guitar mixed with acoustic displays a scene of dancing around the kitchen with the sun shining in. A reassuring tune that guides you towards the ending of this story.

It’s evident just how much soul has been put into this record, an important part of music that has seemingly disappeared today. There’s a vulnerability that allows insight into the most sacred parts of the creator. A whimsical world of Americana and future nostalgia, Pearl Charles lets whomever is willing to listen the answers to life’s greatest secrets. The message behind the album strikes as this, “All you seek is inside of you”, a line from the title track. Let’s put it this way, if Gram Parsons were alive today, he would be a fan.

Review written by Hannah Laney, THE BARRICADE BABES

The Barricade Babes 10/20/20 The Barricade Babes 10/20/20

“BandLife” by Matthew Paige, the Badass Dr. Suess of Rock ‘n’ Roll

“After all, we were on our way to an extremely sold-in show, at the local rock-n-roll venue…”

October 20, 2020

“After all, we were on our way to an extremely sold-in show, at the local rock-n-roll venue…

Matthew Paige of DeeOhGee
September 30th, 2020
Credit: OuttaSight Photos

After finishing “BandLife”, it made me want to both start a band and truly gave me a new perspective on the people who make the art that I love and cherish so much- music.

This book is very much for everyone. It brings together a feeling of gratefulness for being alive and happiness knowing that there are musicians out there who are really doing it because that’s what they’re meant to do in the universe, “This is your music. It’s your art. Fuck anybody trying to push you around. Push back.”

Paige’s optimism fills every paragraph and there’s no denying that he knows what he’s doing in the life of being in a band. Positivity and love are the main themes in his guide, along with avoiding the law and cheeseburgers of course.

Never take the magic of art for granted whether you are creating it or experiencing it. Appreciate the fact that maybe you’re on your way to play the show and your fan is on their way to watch that show, both pieces playing a crucial role in the process of the magic.

The main message I have taken away from the band bible is this: take care of yourself if your dreams are bigger than your reality. Ultimately, strive to do better and achieve more while treating yourself better than ever before. (Wow I just pulled a Matthew Paige!). For example, “Have some dough before you go, and you’re less likely to miss the show.” And continue to do so if music is truly your passion above anything else. “Remember why you’re there and know that you’re spreading something good.”

Another token of knowledge is to of course be a positive individual and chase your dreams, no matter what they may be. It is extremely refreshing to have the confirmation that there are true artists out there who are not selfish, willing to lend a hand to make music and the world a better place. His stories will help you get to know the man behind the adventures and lead you down the path of creating your own.

Everyone should read “BandLife”. Whether you’re in a band, or in life, which we all are…read it if you want to live and not just survive.

Review written & conducted by Hannah Laney, THE BARRICADE BABES

The Barricade Babes 4/5/20 The Barricade Babes 4/5/20

“Live at The Basement” Blackfoot Gypsies Album Review

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, it’s good to see you all! Thank you all for coming out tonight! We’re the Blackfoot Gypsies…”

April 5, 2020

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, it’s good to see you all! Thank you all for coming out tonight! We’re the Blackfoot Gypsies…”

This record proves to be more than enough with just having ten tracks and the very essence of the Blackfoot Gypsies is summed up perfectly in every single one of them. From the first note played, listeners will know that a transcending experience is about to unfold. And if you were lucky enough to have been there that night, don’t spoil it for the others.

Blackfoot Gypsies
January 11, 2020
Grimey’s New & Preloved Music, Nashville, TN
Credit: The Barricade Babes & OuttaSight Photos

The idea to write this album review initially came from the Blackfoot Gypsies founder himself, Matthew Paige. I first met Paige at a Gram Parsons tribute show down at The Local and recognized his quirky sense of style right away. “Aren’t you the lead singer of Blackfoot Gypsies? I love your band!” I made some small talk telling him about this blog and of course latched onto the idea that was planted in my head to review their new album coming at the end of the year.

Consisting of Matthew Paige (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Dylan Whitlow (bass, vocals), & Zack Murphy (drums), the Blackfoot Gypsies have made a name for themselves in the city of Nashville while maintaining an intense touring schedule across the world. Their sound would most likely be described as blues/southern rock, but I believe it is ultimately unique to themselves. With an eclectic sense of style, they’re hard to miss or forget.

I was fortunate enough to have been at the album release show held at Grimey’s New & Preloved Music on January 11th, 2020 in Nashville, Tennessee. It was an especially exciting show for me because I had just gotten a Canon AE-1 film camera for Christmas and was ready to take photos of these local rockers. Along with being my first show of theirs, I couldn’t wait to hear all of the songs I had been singing along with even before moving to music city.

On December 30th of 2018, “Live at The Basement” was recorded in celebration of this Nashville-based band being together for a decade. Their synchronicity is definitely displayed throughout all of their musical works, but for a live album, this detail is extremely important. And they delivered.

Nothing short of true rock ‘n’ roll, the Gypsies play the hits, mixed with the occasional jam and crowd-pleasing commentary from frontman Matthew Paige of course.

Track number one: “Intro” opens the door to a new universe while riding the wave of Paige’s melodic harmonies and Whitlow’s groovy bass lines on the journey to get there. The clash of the drums given by Mr. Zack Murphy is the final breakthrough to the other side.

The energy in the room somehow time travels from when this album was recorded and into your ears the moment it’s played. You get the feeling you’re in the room, there’s no denying the fact. The music will sweep away any prior notions to wherever you physically may be, whether it’s listening in your bedroom late at night or walking down the street with headphones in, you’ll wanna dance. Do it!

With cheers and whistles of approval from the audience, each track is set in stone to be better than the last. “Everybody’s Watching” is my personal favorite and sounds even sweeter live. Especially on vinyl. (Link down below to purchase)!

Not only do they provide stellar tunes, they’re also sure to give out tips and life advice with things like, “Thank you very much, get on out to New Orleans when you can before it’s underwater forever, we’re all gonna think back and go ‘yeah, remember that one time, yeah…’.” What more could you want from a rock ‘n’ roll band?

On tracks like “Spent All My Money” the lyrics “I spent all my money again, I spent it all on my friends…” turns into “I’m talking about you!” directed at the audience. And what a feeling it is to be surrounded by friends, family, and fans alike in the magical city of Nashville. That’s what music is really all about.

“We hold on to each other just the best that we can, we’re another year older in the promise land.”- “Promise to Keep” by Blackfoot Gypsies

Review written by: Hannah Laney, THE BARRICADE BABES