Musings on The Muse by Julian Shah-Tayler

Welcome to the sporadic and not entirely well considered spewing forth from my pen. Love to you!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

northern light

so I was talking to my American distributor, and he was very keen on the new video for "say what you want" which is to be the first promotional vid for the "coito ergo sum" album. he was also very keen to point out the virtues of the song "northern light"
not to say I don't like the song, because I do but I always felt it needed a remix/reload. so that is what I have been doing for the last 5 days: tweaking and primping. it is now a monster, and may need a release on it's own with a video...
electro rock is the word..... if only it were easy to translate this stuff to live performance! as it goes, the 3 piece rock band: "impossible things" is sounding amazing.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Eatsleepbreathe music wetter writeup!

eatsleepbreathemusic writeup
Current mood: jedi
Category: Music
Provacateur Julian Shah-Tayler pens sexy hit
July 21, 2010
By Sheena
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Photobucket
Hitmaker Julian Shah-Tayler, who co-wrote Whitey’s smash hit “Wrap It Up” (featured in Whip It, GTA 4, Sopranos, Kyle XY and CSI Miami) during his stint as the band’s guitarist, and has written/produced songs for Joaquin Phoenix, Bethia Beadman (Courtney Love), JC Chasez, and Violet Flames to name a few, is writing hits for his own project now.
His most recent EP, Un Ange Passe, is to prep fans and would-be fans for his full length debut in the fall. Un Ange Passe introduces listeners to the first single off the album “Wetter,” an electro-influenced avant-pop track with some provocative lyrics. Ahem…
“If you’re getting bored with the conversation
Let’s get down to the penetration
You’re the object of my fascination,
I wanna make you wet with my perspiration
Now…
Your body is the reason that I came
The wetter the better
I want you
I want you”
Are you flushed and blushing yet? If the lyrics didn’t do it, then surely once you start dancing to the infectious beat, that will. Check him out here or on Facebook.
Related Posts:

http://www.eatsleepbreathemusic.com/blog/2010/07/provacateur-julian-shah-tayler-pens-sexy-hit/

Read more: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll#ixzz0upM5EtwS

Obscure Sound review of Un Ange Passe

Obscure Sound review of "Un Ange"
Current mood: awake
Category: Music
Julian Shah-Tayler

Posted by Josh Taylor on 7/21/10 • Categorized as Features
[Julian Shah-Tayler]
by Josh Taylor
Julian Shah-Tayler was born to make music. Putting out an EP every few months and pumping out 50-70 songs a year is no easy feat, unless you show prevalently the aspects of a well-rounded musician. His robust musicianship is responsible for his versatility as an artist. What I noticed after listening to his latest EP, Un Ange Passe, is that Julian is a songwriter who creates for his heart’s content. He strays from songwriting conventions and isn’t afraid to experiment if it amuses his untypical sensibilities.
Julian’s songs distinctly belong to their maker. Un Ange Passe is very personal and all the songs on the EP (with the exception of “Wetter”) were written for a dearly departed friend of Julian’s who tragically passed away. The literal translation of the title “Un Ange Passe” is “an angel is passing”, but is usually used when an awkward silence falls over the room. The EP tells a brief and interesting story about what happened to Christine. Julian tells it well, as the story is endearing and stripped down to the most honest details.
Instead of diving into the story headfirst, the EP begins with “Wetter.” The songs on the EP are sandwiched by “Wetter” and the remix of “Wetter” by Karl Leiker. This song is definitely the black sheep… uptempo, naughty lyrics and electro influence. The feel of the song is great and could be a radio hit. The second song on Un Ange Passe is “Everything Is You”, serving as a good transition into the rest of the EP, which is more relaxed musically. The song begins with finger-snapping, chimes and some elusive and wandering exotic-sounding instruments. Then iit develops a direction and chooses to take on a New Order/Depeche Mode feel. The nameless exotics remain, lending a curious tone to the song. It’s almost as if they don’t belong, but are still welcomed.
“Communication” resembles the sparse feel of a desert. It’s expansive (at 5 and a half minutes) and filled with many instrumental breaks. The track lulls and winds but I don’t know that it goes anywhere. All I know is that when I listen to it, I start to space out. If Julian wanted “Communication” to have a daydream-inducing effect, then bravo — well done, because that is exactly what happens.
[Julian Shah]
“Christine” is where the EP starts to come together and the song clearly lays out what exactly happened to his late friend of the same name. Make what you want of the other songs and interpret them as you wish, but here is what happened, Julian seems to say. Musically, “Christine” brings to mind The Smiths “How Soon Is Now?” and has the same pensive inquiry. One of the most striking and revealing lyrics is “as the kiss of the needle delivers you to the real world” followed by this lyric in the bridge “even if this life could give you all the love you need, I guess you had enough.” The verdict: overdose.
Un Ange Passe occupies a certain estranged darkness, but it is only when the listener gets to “Christine” that I feel they can go back and find its lingering presence in the background of the entire EP. Perhaps that misplaced discomfort is the awkwardness that the album title also refers to. Still, the way the song is handled is half ode, half something else that I can’t quite pin down. For a song written for a close friend the song isn’t particularly sentimental, which is odd to me. However, I think those feelings find their way into the next song “Lullabies.”
From what I heard, “Lullabies” was written for Julian’s future daughter. But the listener is also led to believe that perhaps the song’s tender message is intended for Christine as well. The lullaby soothes the listener as well as the singer, perhaps reminding him that everything will be fine and there really is nothing to be afraid of during the night, and maybe in death…
Whatever the ultimate purpose of Un Ange Passe is, it can be listened to in many different ways. Julian is adventurous with his artistic choices and presents his subject matter though a twisted lens. This is not to say that his method is perverse, but rather aiming for artistic perfection on his own terms. Some say that’s a nifty idea. I would say it’s better than nifty, or original, or clever. I would say the whole EP is a noble effort. Too many musicians make music to turn a quick buck but lack the vision to make something worthwhile. Others write for their heart’s content, yet lack the talent to make sophisticated music. Julian, however, is the best of both. He is talented and passionate, which shows remarkably.
One last thing I noticed: None of these songs showcase Julian’s piano talents, but word on the street is that his full-length debut does. Entitled Coito Ergo Sum, it is due in the fall. So keep an eye out, or an ear rather.
RIYL: Depeche Mode, Dave Gahan, New Order, Erasure, Pet Shop Boys, Duran Duran, The Cure, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Alphaville, David Wrench, The Human League, Gary Numan, Tears for Fears, Soft Cell, INXS, Talk Talk, A Flock of Seagulls, Naked Eyes, Blancmange
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Julian Shah-Tayler – Everything Is You

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Julian Shah-Tayler – Wetter

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Julian Shah-Tayler – In Your Room (Depeche Mode cover)

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Impossible Things Records
MySpace
BUY

Read more: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll#ixzz0upLkbTt5

Sunday, July 18, 2010

back in Los Angeles

ok, so I just spent a whole month in the uk, refurbishing my appartment and visiting Paris and my ailing grandmother. I miss certain things about London, like the variable weather, the cultural diversity/acceptance. Los Angeles and I think the us in general approaches the best of Europe by distilling the acceptable and beautiful elements to the most apparent constituent parts. it then regurgitates these out of context to create amarna style islands of placidity amongst the cultural wastelands.... I have yet to observe a more American idiosyncratic style than Disney... the world as illusion

Friday, April 23, 2010

Post to engcourage you download my EP! x

Hope are well, and will forgive me the shameless self promotion. If it is beyond your boundaries of taste, please tell me and I will make sure not to trangress another time! If you are pleased to help, then maybe you will repost and help me with my efforts!
The reason I am writing is because my second EP is now available for free/donation download.

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/blah-blah-blahnik

Please feel free to share and tell anyone who might be interested. Julian

After the amazing success of my first, "Un Ange Passe" I have been astounded by the generosity of my friends and music lovers everywhere. Reviews of this new one are similarly amazing so far:

Beehive Candy:
Well I have to say having been very impressed with the last release, this latest offering is perhaps even stronger. Great songs, and excellent musicianship and production make Julian a likely contender for much bigger status in the music industry. The song's Electricity & Blood Destiny have to be my favorite's on the EP, lets hope they reach a much wider audience.

Boom Boom Chik:
What amazed me about his music was how different the first EP was form the 2nd. I liked his sound so much that I felt I needed to ask him a few questions about his musical experiences

Back When We Were Beautiful:
Overall it's a great display of Julian's talents and of his variety in music making. The EP is a real musical journey; taking us from grooving pop rock, chilling out with some more mellow tracks and finishing with a real rave of a tune. I urge you to download the EP now!

"Wetter will make Julian a star" - Alan McGee (Creation records)

“Very Impressed” – David J (Bauhaus/Love and Rockets)

“Massive talent” – Boom Boom Chik

“A breathtaking talent” – Mojophenia

“Wonderful Vocals…Production is superior” – Mark Fisher

“A superb ep” – Yorkie – aiiradio.net

“Julian is seriously talented” – I Am The Programmer

“Extremely catchy” - Bomarrblog

“it’s like a magic carpet ride” – Mark Walbaum

“London new wave at its danceable best” – Dabelly.com

“The brilliant Julian Shah-Tayler…..Stupidly good” – Liberty London Girl

“I was astounded to see the amount of energy he brought” - Geekweek.com

Back when we were beautiful interview

Thursday, 8 April 2010
Q&A with Julian Shah-Tayler
I've secured a Q&A session with the previously featured artist Julian Shah-Tayler. Read below as he discusses working with Joaquin Phoenix, where he takes inspiration from to write and what's new for him right now. Enjoy!

Hi Julian, it's great to be able to send some questions your way. Firstly, the one I'm sure all my readers are dying to know about; how did working with Joaquin Phoenix come about? How was it?
So my friend Scott (Adamandevil) and I moved across to Los Angeles from England around the same time, and met up with an old friend, Alan McGee (Creation Records boss) who used to manage "Whitey" (my old band) to discuss him supporting our music with his new label. Alan had previously set us up with an audition for Courtney Love (another story!) and mentioned that he was considering managing a famous actor, whose new material was amazing. That actor turned out to be Joaquin.

Scott and I recorded and played with him for around 2 weeks, in which time we recorded on around 8 songs. (I played piano and percussion and contributed vocals) alongside Antony Langdon, (Spacehog) on main vocals.
The project was rehearsed with Wildcat Will on drums, but never ended up going to a live format, as Joaquin was called to do another movie and the momentum fizzled, Alan went back to live in retirement in Wales.
Joaquin was an experience to work with. His type of crazy comes with an enormous amount of creative flair and much more focus than people give him credit for. His songwriting (I understand in collaboration with Antony) is very tasteful and I love the songs.

Blah Blah Blahnik takes on a variety of musical genres compared with Un Ange Passe which tended to stick to just one. Why did you feel the need to mix it up on your latest offering?
I don't think that is the case at all. The "Un Ange Passe" EP is more diverse by far than BBB.

It varies from complete electronica to very organic and "real" instruments.
Compare "Lullabies" to "Wetter" from the UAP ep, and I think you will see the massive gulf!
I think BBB is much more homogenous comparatively.
I deliberately made the second EP sound "raw" and "rock" to illustrate that I could be more consistent in style than the first one.
I have a completely electronic EP in the pipeline as well as a totally live recorded one as well as the finished album....
Most of the artists I love have always managed to straddle different genres.

What is it about writing music that makes you want to keep doing it, and when did you first decide this was the career path for you?
I love music, and have been singing professionally since I was 5 years old.

I tried to quit, and worked in TV for a while. Much much more money, but I realised that I was not happy with the results psychologically, and I care very little for money per se.
I live for the audience. I love the fact that in the context of one song, you can reach people on both an emotional and physical level at once.
It is scientifically postulated that any concept can be articulated and memorised much more easily when set to music. The feeling when I have finished a song beats anything except the excitement that comes across peoples' faces when you play something you know has connected on a deep level with them.....

Where do you take inspiration from when writing your music and lyrics?
Everything and everywhere. My life. My music is my diary and my secret lovers and my open book and my own soul laid out for everyone to experience and interpret and for me to remember and reappraise on each subsequent listen.

A song that has a genuine resonance with me will always have a much more important life than any other song.
If it means something to me, it means something to people that are listening. One important lesson I had to learn!

'Show Me Your Soul' is a great track. How and where did that begin life?
Thank you! Actually that song has had a very long and troubled birth. My friend, Antony Green is an artist in life and paint.

He recently met Imelda Marcos, the ex premiere of the Phillippines.
She is very famous for two things: shoes and mismanagement of the Phillippines.
Antony is preparing an exhibition of shoe paintings with her permission. He asked me to write the soundtrack to the exhibition and specifically a song that would accompany the event as a multimedia portion of the press campaign.
Subsequently, I read a lot about Imelda; her thoughts and writing. I chose to focus on her intentions as a great figurehead who was misinterpreted by (or misinterpreted) the people she was representing.
She has a very interesting and very thoughtful soul that could be said to be lost in the shuffle in the wake of her deposition from the ruling position. Understand that she was one of the most powerful people in the world for a long time, and an icon of feminine power for so many worldwide.
The song, I wrote in one Los Angeles night in november last year, and finished it the next day.

How do you feel about the music industry in general at the moment? Are you excited or anxious for its current state and future?
I am excited, as it enables people like me (with no label support and no desire to be creatively straitjacketed by other peoples' opinion on what will "sell" ) to make music instinctively without the pigeonholes that ruin the inspiration that make it desirable in the first place.

What's new for you at the moment, and what does the future hold?
New for me is the pleasure of producing for other people, as my debut was very well received and I am being approached all the time to work with other artists to arrange, record and produce their songs.

I also put a new band together recently, and we have a residency at the R Bar in Koreatown, Los Angeles so we can build the live show to the best of our ability......
The future is today. One of my new songs, and a lyric that I love : "If tomorrow's what you want, then today is what you need. The future's always sliding out of reach......."
I wish to carry on doing what I enjoy - making music and making love.

Finally, can you tell us a secret?
The secret is that everything you could ever want or be is within you.

Each moment contains the fabric of every moment that is or ever was.
Realise that, and nothing will ever challenge you again.

A really wonderful piece of philosophy to round-off a great interview. I hope you enjoyed it :)
Posted by Samborakid at 06:18
Labels: Joaquin Phoenix, Julian Shah-Tayler

http://backwhenwewerebeautiful.blogspot.com/2010/04/q-with-julian-shah-tayler.html

Boom Boom Chik Interview!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Julian Shah-Tayler is a solo artist who writes, produces and performs all his own music. He released an EP, Un Ange Passe, back in January and another one, Blah Blah Blahnik, in March. What amazed me about his music was how different the first EP was form the 2nd. I liked his sound so much that I felt I needed to ask him a few questions about his musical experiences.
Read the interview below as well as check out a new track from his latest EP below.
enjoY!
Julien Shah-Tayler – Force of Habit
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How did you first get into music?
I was 5 and my Grandmother decided that I should learn piano/trumpet and join the local church choir (Saint Wilfred’s in Harrogate, England). She had been a music teacher before she got married, and missed teaching little ones.My mother was also a singer, and had withdrawn from the opportunity to join the Welsh National Opera to have me…. so she encouraged me to sing in front of my school from 3 years old. I went on to sing professionally at Durham Cathedral Choir at 7, also joining the orchestra and playing the organ in the evensong services.
What influences do you mainly draw from in your music?
Most of the influences I have are from life rather than music. I appreciate the sentiments that certain sounds evoke, and I try my hardest to convey emotion as much as possible. It is a constant quest to encapsulate a particular circumstance or contain a catharsis of some kind. As far as musical influences, I love Radiohead, David Bowie, Scott Walker, Bjork, Roxy Music, Adam Ant, The Verve, The Beatles, Prince, Aphex Twin, Orbital, recently – Animal Collective, Yeasayer, and I must say the new Whitey album is absolutely brilliant…… Even though there are none of the songs we recorded together on it. He totally surpassed my wildest expectations!
You have just released your latest EP, Blah Blah Blanik, preceded by Un Ange Pass back in January, each album is different musically, how do you come up with the theme for each EP?
The first EP – “Un Ange Passe” was a dedication to my friend, Christine who died of a heroine overdose. She inspired or appreciated the songs on it very much, so I ceded to her family’s request to release a song I wrote in response to her death collected with her favourite songs as my first release, with a picture of her on the cover. She was a wonderful individual and I miss her every day. That is perhaps why the song selection was very diverse in style. The “Blah Blah Blahnik” EP is another “conceptual” piece in that it is dedicated to Imelda Marcos, the ex premiere of the Philippines. I must explain, as I understand David Byrne has stolen my thunder on that one! My friend Antony Green, who is an artist has put together an exhibition of paintings of Imelda’s shoes (with her permission) and he asked me to write a song to accompany the promotion of the exhibit. That song was “Show Me Your Soul” which I wrote after reading a very diverse and illuminating cross section of her quotations and critics. She is a very interesting person. The songs for that one were also designed to be a little more homogeneous than the previous EP, kind of to prove that I could do something a little more cohesive, although the reaction has been that it is just as “diverse” as UAP! I never have a template when it comes to writing music, so I am glad to stay outside the pigeon holes…. Seems like you have tons of music you are sitting on, How much music do you have? How many albums do you plan to release this year? I have a lot of music. I write every day whether it be for my solo project or for Adamandevil which is my band with my best friend, Scott. For that project, we probably have around 15 songs ready for an album, whereas for my own material (including old “band” songs- drinkme, Magic House) I probably have around 400 songs written, 50 or so will ever see the light of day! I write/produce with other artists and remix as well. I also record electronic/ambient music of which there are probably another 50. (Very Experimental, and only for the really interested!)This year, there are 4 EPs done and one album for the solo material. My biggest problem is my impatience to get out there and play shows, as I miss touring around the world. That requires me having a body of material that people actually WANT to hear!
Do you think the concept of an album is important these days?
Absolutely. I think the recent development of the “shuffle” generation has galvanized music into two different musical listener types. The passionate fan (read Radiohead fans…) and the casual dipper (read Justin Bieber) An album with a “concept” like “In Rainbows” or “Ziggy Stardust” will always weather repeated listens as the concept of those records is coupled with a meticulous attention to detail and a thread that binds the songs beyond their individual natures. A simple collection of songs thrown together will never resonate emotionally in the same way. I am not referring specifically to the whole “Yes” or “Pink Floyd” concepts, which can be overweening on the actual music, but I like cohesion, and the desire should be there to listen all the way through.
Has the blog-o-sphere helped your music career? Personal career?
I really appreciate the affirmation and the new people who get to hear the music, because I realize that I COULD make music in a vacuum for the rest of my life waiting for the mythical record deal, or film placement that would propel me to fame, fortune and dating Shannyn Sossamon, but I prefer the idea of reaching people who I can touch in some way emotionally, or just make them dance. It is one of the most valuable outlets that an individual can have to communicate with people outside the bedroom….. My experience of it so far has been so nurturing and helpful that I feel like at least I am appreciated somewhere! I don’t buy print press anymore, I read blogs everyday, and if I am anything to go by, I guess it must be increasingly the most important conduit to music lovers at the very least!
Superman or Batman?
Batman, hands down. (mainly for the outfit/movies)






rated 5.0 by 1 person [?]

Blah Blah Blahnik review in When We Were Beautiful blog

http://backwhenwewerebeautiful.blogspot.com/2010/03/ep-review-julian-shah-taylor-blah-blah.html

You can download your copy of Blah Blah Blahnik for FREE right here (or offer a donation) in advance of its 1st May release date on iTunes. Below I've included a track-by-track guide.

Show Me Your Soul - A great hooky electro/rock number that sounds really fresh and now. The vocals sound wicked against the grooving drums and great sounding guitars, this song sounds like a hit. There's a cool synth journey in the second verse and the backing vocals in the chorus add a real depth to the track.

Force of Habit - The guitar work on this EP really shines through; the overall sound of the music has a far grittier edge than what I've heard from Julian before. This song is packed with great guitar-riff work; his voice is deep and sensual which reminds me of Ville Valo (HIM) against a cool upbeat background.

Butterfly - This is a real pub-rock anthem; chugging electric guitars, poppy drums and a real singalong chorus. The Lo-Fi feel after the first chorus is cool and I like the synth/guitar notes pushing against the straight grooves throughout the second verse. The guitar break after the second chorus is cool but I'd love for it to really push for centre stage with a huge solo on top of the mix; it just sits equal to everything else, show it off and take the song home!

Electricity - A virtuoso piano part sets the scene, differing itself from the dance-rock feel that the track's predecessors showcased. A calmer piano-driven ballad was exactly what the doctor ordered for track four and Julian's vocals sound great on this track. A really nice song.

Blood Destiny - We're sticking with the calmer feel again with this track which is nice; I'm in that mood thanks to the previous track. When the track gets going I love the drums with the acoustic guitar and Julian's deep vocals really top it off nicely. It's not a real stand-out track but is great in its own right; the track builds cleverly and the acoustic guitar work is top class.

Say What You Want (Jason Air remix) - A real grooving dance track to cap off the EP in style; it's a perfect ending. The track is a real foot-tapper featuring great samples and some wicked beats. It's eclectic and odd and this is what makes it perfect; it's a real cooking pot of ideas.

Overall it's a great display of Julian's talents and of his variety in music making. The EP is a real musical journey; taking us from grooving pop rock, chilling out with some more mellow tracks and finishing with a real rave of a tune. I urge you to download the EP now!

Visit Julian
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Beehive Candy Blog review of BBB

We have featured Julian Shah-Tayler before here on Beehive Candy and having listened to his latest EP 'Blah Blah Blahnik' are delighted to do so for a second time.

Julian is one busy individual, having recently been interviewed by E!, featured in the Huffington Post and performing as part of his ongoing residency with Macy Gray and Rolan Bolan at Prince's favourite Hollywood haunt, Bardot. He has also seen his songs featured in three independent films: "Whip It" (Whitey), "Youthful Journeys", "Prudence" and he also soundtracked an Australian Television show: "West Coast Diaries". He also signed a publishing deal for the debut album of his band "Adamandevil" His new live band debuted for Angie Bowie and Roy Rogers at their enormously successful Haiti benefit show.

He has also been invited to perform this summer in Manila for Imelda Marcos as part of an art extravaganza based on her infamous shoe collection. This was the inspiration behind the lead off track on his new solo EP "Blah Blah Blahnik" - "Show Me Your Soul" (spot the play on words).

OK you may ask but what about the music? Well I have to say having been very impressed with the last release, this latest offering is perhaps even stronger. Great songs, and excellent musicianship and production make Julian a likely contender for much bigger status in the music industry. The song's Electricity & Blood Destiny have to be my favorite's on the EP, lets hope they reach a much wider audience.

Featured:
'Show Me Your Soul'
Website: MySpace.
Buy: Impossible Things Records.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

ok, so now the electro ep is necessary!

I finished "fireworks" finally as a proper thought out song. It fits perfectly onto the electro ep: maison d'être which I desperately want to release as the next ep to follow the current queued one : blah blah blahnik.... Impatience has always been my worst fault. How can people get used to something if they have not had the time to sit with it. I have that degree of OCD myself, so I cannot complain... Anyhow. I think fireworks might be a proper song at this point! X x night

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Ableton Live experimentations.

I am going to get used to running this Ableton thing.
I like the hands on approach to performances that require something a little different. I hope it works out. First try out for the new guitar/keyboard guy, Mister Zallen today, and he is very charming and talented, so I guess we will be blessed with his contributions very soon live.
Just bought the Climate of Hunter Scott Walker album, so yesterday was all about that record. I am going to try so hard to develop my croon. Can't get enough! x

Friday, March 12, 2010

So I am revisiting Peep Show on Hulu

Absolutely genius. A messed up view of life from the perspective of two flatmates in London. Very very funny

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Mention of my Darling Nikki Cover!

http://lilwhy.com/post/346126904/julian-shah-taylor-darling-nikki-prince-cover

42 plays Get

Julian Shah-Taylor- Darling Nikki (Prince Cover)


A prince cover, in the nick of time (indie rock time, that is). These naughty lyrics inspired Tipper Gore to enforce advisory labels on questionable albums (soon her husband will be doing the same thing with SUVs, water bottles, and hairspray)

Darling Nikki better be 21 (0r 18 at the very least!) she surely know how to spice up your life!

Monday, March 8, 2010

Remakeover - Thetuft's comment on my cover of "Just Like Heaven"

Julian Shah-Tayler
This slowed-down, distorted version seems to answer the question, What if The Cure actually sounded like the contemporary emo bands they inspired? Dig that guitar solo!

http://blogs.tuftsdaily.com/thescene/?p=604

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Tonight is a big one...

Tonight I play a show for Jeff Cahill at Aqua Lounge, Beverly Hills after attending the "Toscars" - an event arranged by Brits in LA lampooning the Oscars. Scott and I did 2 "adamandevil" versions of songs for one of the competing films. - Another Brick In The Wall and Do You Wanna Touch
Then tomorrow, an Oscars gifting suite event..... Busy days.

x x

Monday, March 1, 2010

Bomarr Blog mention! Thanks, Matt

2010-03-01
Julian Shah-Tayler - "Wetter"

julian shah-tayler - "wetter" (download)
Julian Shah-Tayler has some experience under his belt. Not only was he a member of Bomarr Blog favorites Whitey, but he recorded an album with Joaquin Phoenix. He's also gotten some praise from David J of Bauhaus. "Wetter" is from his Un Ange Passe EP that he recently released and dedicated to the memory of his friend Christine Shroy-Hull. This is a straight up, extremely catchy pop song that is sure to get Julian even more praise. You can stream or buy his music over at his Bandcamp page.
myspace

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Posted by bomarr at 11:04 AM
Labels: julian shah-tayler, un ange passe, wetter

http://bomarrblog.blogspot.com/2010/03/julian-shah-taylor-wetter.html

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Love Weekend.

I had probably one of the most wonderful weekends of life. Beautiful people, wonderful friends, a fabulous meal with my love at Katsuya, Hollywood.
I saw old friends like Montana, Hiair and had a fantastic rehearsal with my new band ready for the show on Thursday. Most excellent, people....
Ableton Live, the computer programme is a wonderful human and electronic interface, and is it possible/realistic to fall in love with a programme?
Bardot was a welcome excursion on saturday night, I felt welcomed and cherished even when I was not playing.....

x x x x Life x x x x

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Mojophenia repost and lovely mention

http://mojophenia.blogspot.com/2010/02/roy-orbison-merchandise-julian-shah.html

"This Leonard Cohen cover was a pleasant surprise and not particularly distant from Julian`s current crop of material. A breathtaking talent that continues to draw influence from all the right places. Look out for the new release on the artist`s Bandcamp, review up soon."

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Liberty London Girl blog post

Music: Julian Shah Tayler. Un Ange Passe

February 17, 2010 · 0 comments

CD Layout Front

Hands down, one of my most oldest and most talented friends is the musician Julian Shah Tayler. Even when we were teenagers Julian was stupidly good – he sang, played guitar & piano and has gone on to write & produce all his own music. Last spring, I stayed for a while in the large rambling house in LA where he lives, and got to hear a lot of the work he is now releasing.

Before moving to LA, he toured & recorded with Whitey for three years, and now also writes for & plays in his band Adamandevil with his old bandmate Scott Fairbrother. He has lots of brilliant stories about working as a session musician with artists I can’t possible name but recently let slip to a journalist that he worked with Joaquin Phoenix on a brilliant album that will probably never see the light of day.

His latest solo single, “Un Ange Passe” was released on the 1st of January and is available on iTunes here and for free download via donation here, and his debut album, “Coito Ergo Sum” is due for release later on this spring on Impossible Things Records Do check it out.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Leonard Cohen

I am dismayed to find and hear that Leonard is unwell, and is suffering from a compressed lower back injury.
I was stupid enough to miss his recent performances in Los Angeles and Coachella. I was, however blessed with the experience of rehearsing at SIR, and on visiting the restroom (lavatory to us Brits) standing next to a very elegant gentleman in the process of relieving himself. Thoughtlessly my eye was involuntarily drawn his way. I nearly dropped mine..... Leonard was human, after all.
I had to exchange niceties, as to leave without engaging the living god would have been inconceivable.
I did not have time to divulge that I had been a fan for many many years (prior to my knowledge of Jeff, actually) and had finished a recording of his most heart breaking moment: Joan Of Arc with my friends Sofizel and Victoria Butterfly. Anyhow, I have sent the version to Cover me, who recently posted my covers of Darling Nikki and Cracked by Joaquin Phoenix. Hopefully you can hear it soon!

Monday, February 8, 2010

Inglorious Basterds

Terrible movie, like seriously. Gratuitous and badly scripted. Appalling premise, historically inaccurate, and not even entertaining in the slightest bit. Squirming...
Bright Star: Dreadful. How can so promoted and feted movies both be such a mess?

Sorry, Jane Campion and Tarantino. Such a lot of promise, and they both left off what makes a movie good.... Plot and intrigue.

Friday, February 5, 2010

So Bardot was crazy last night.

Some kid from Sum 41 sang Rebel Rebel, and Maiya (new singer and a teacher) completely blew everyone away with her soul and Diva voice...
I got to do Lola and Shadowplay (a reprise of the last time I performed)
Next week, Adamandevil are playing a show on thursday and myself and the Impossible Things are playing a TV/interview "gig" on friday..... Awesome.

x x

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Tonight at Bardot

I am singing Lola by the Kinks tonight at Bardot. it should be great, as Nikka Costa is also performing. She is obviously amazing also! x x

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Haiti benefit show tomorrow night

I am playing a benefit for the Haiti relief charity tomorrow night (wednesday) at the Old Town Pub in Pasadena. It is 5 dollars entry, and I am on with my new band, "the Impossible Things" after 10pm.
I hope you can make it! x x

Monday, February 1, 2010

Television. Billy Ficca... And Me!

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs292.ash1/21973_280983331692_502636692_3562664_2063725_n.jpg

Playing for old stars

So last night, the debut/inaugural show for my new band as we played at Isla Cantina for Angie Bowie and Roy Rogers' Haiti benefit. In attendance and also playing on our equipment was Billy, (drummer from Television) and Tequila Mockingbird.
Everyone was very pleased and loved the show.
Very encouraging! I am also invited to become resident DJ in the same venue, starting ASAP.

Could be a great year, this 2010!

Julian x x x

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Insimile - poetry

call to me like a bird
and drown my senses
in soft clinging caresses
and wordless communion

dance to me like a fire
in flickering delight
consuming and illuminating
with tongues of flame

run to me in a river
crave emotions to the sea
in waves breaking over me
torrential and irresistible

bathe me like the moonlight
in shimmering strands
unravel my darkness
and banish my shades

embrace me like the smoke
that drapes its narcotic cloak
on my fragmented fantasies
and dreams them real

blanket me like the snow
that numbs my pain
and blesses my wounds
with its soothing glow

devour me like the end of the world
and grant me living oblivion
eternal and divine
in your celestial anodyne

Relax - poetry

relax, this is the future;
this subtle bludgeon,
this assault in tenderness
where we choose our own execution

relax, this is absolution;
this aloof intimacy,
this touching by proxy
where we cleanse our original sin

relax, this is heaven;
this calm tempest,
this dancing static
where we live through television

relax, this is experience;
this blind vision,
this attraction by opposites
where we dissolve ourselves in others

relax, this is understanding;
this shy exhibition,
this knowledge through innocence
where we swallow defeat

where i am a warrior,
and you are a priest

softpedia article

Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix has managed to do what many deemed impossible: make a “perfect” music album that would never see the light of day. Precisely one year ago, the star said he would retire from acting to pursue a career in music, kicking it off with a couple not too stellar rap performances in Las Vegas. Today, courtesy of E! Online, we have the first details of the album that will never be.

As the e-zine puts it after speaking with musician Julian Shah-Tayler, who worked closely with Phoenix this past year, the album he recorded is the closest thing to perfection. The problem is we will never get to hear it because this is what makes it so special: if Joaquin would have simply gone ahead and released it, it would not have been so out of the ordinary and awesome as it is now, Shah-Tayler believes.
“He’s a Beatles, Oasis, Bowie-style songwriter. I hold it in that high esteem. He’s accomplished just about everything anyone could accomplish as an artist. So coming out with a brilliant album of great music would not surprise anybody, and I think that’s maybe why he didn’t release it... And I think it’s better to have some secrets, and I think Joaquin’s secret is his prodigious music talent,” Shah-Tayler says for E!, hinting that the masterpiece on which Phoenix has been working for about a year will remain long lost.

This, of course, is not to say that he’s not worth all the praise in the world. “He was one of the most demonstrative producers I’ve ever worked with. He would absolutely take you through the mental process of getting through it. Brilliant. He got exactly what he wanted and he got some of the best work out of me, as a pianist, that I have ever performed. […] He’s quite capable of whatever he turns his hand to... Whatever it is, it will be genius, because I think he’s close to genius,” Shah-Tayler further explains.

Apparently, he and Phoenix worked on eight new tracks that the actor himself wrote, and recorded in his in-house studio. All the while the album was in production, Phoenix was neither acting erratically nor the lethargic guy fans saw on David Letterman, with Shah-Tayler describing him as “bubbly” and “effervescent.”

http://news.softpedia.com/news/Details-Emerge-on-Brilliant-Joaquin-Phoenix-Album-133100.shtml

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Publishing meeting

Scott and I went for a publishing meeting today with Danny to talk about the deal with Music Sales. Everything went great. Can't wait to get my teeth into finishing the record, and taking everything to the next level....
Good things come to those who wait, I guess after all!

x x xx

Monday, January 25, 2010

Force Of Habit - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/blah-blah-blahnik

Can't eat, you can't sleep
Watching kiss scars splintering the concrete
Where sin town and sick city meet

In shock, you're looking good
You're just another dog, barking up at Hollywood
Just close your eyes and pretend you're alive

Wait for your flags to unfurl and bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit
And when your bridges all burn, you'll bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit

Wanna know what you want
Let my libido take you to a restaurant
I'll get you drunk and then I'll get you high

You lose your mind, you lose your clothes
And I won't stop until we're both comatose
Just close your eyes and pretend your alive

Wait for your flags to unfurl and bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit
And when your bridges all burn, you'll bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit

So many people that you meet will tell you lies
So many places you drag your feet are paradise
So many things that you rather be you fantasise
And after all you might as well commit suicide

Wait for your flags to unfurl and bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit
And when your bitches all burn, you'll bear the weight of the world
Under the force of habit

Joaquin statement.... followup to E! interview

Just to put a few more things straight. I was definitely misquoted/misunderstood on a few things in transition between interview and publication.
Firstly, It was Alan McGee - svengali and record company owner (Creation Records) who introduced Scott and I to Joaquin AND Antony.
The songs were written by Antony and Joaquin together, I now understand.
Antony was the very able singer of the project.
Joaquin's input was focused on lyrics/songwriting and producer/directing.
I am also definitely not claiming to be a bosom buddy of either Joaquin OR Antony, as I have had no contact with them since the sessions.
I played piano, percussion and sang on the record along with Scott Fairbrother (Adamandevil) who played bass/guitar and sang.
I stand by the praise that I rather liberally heaped upon the record, and hope for it one day to be released so as to silence the critics.

Julian Shah-Tayler

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Bandcamp site might be removed.

It disappeared for a brief moment, which I guess I was expecting.... The Joaquin song was the contentious issue, I guess. Hope they are not going to remove it....

First rehearsal

So today I had my first full band rehearsal for the new set, total rock and roll. Total balls out rock and roll, baby.
Drummer: Ryan is awesome, and a full on rock monster, tight as anyone could wish, affable to a fault, and learned the whole thing beautifully.
Guitarist: Shawn is the survivor from the pack, and amazing. Sweet as a nut, man sweet like tropicana.
Guitarist: Chad is awesome and learned everything perfectly.
Bass player is still pending, although Nick filled in for now, and being a consummate professional, enabled the run through perfectly well.

Setlist draws from past and future:

1: Show Me Your Soul
2: Manifesto (old drinkme tune)
3: Force Of Habit
4: Darling Nikki (Prince Cover)
5: Wetter
6: Buildings Burn Down
7: Candlelight? if we can get round to learning it!

8: Communication
9: Beautiful World

Shows are being looked at at Cafe Was where it would be a more laid back approach with a grand piano in the mix, Bardot where we would rock hard! There is a proper show on the 3rd of Feb at the Old Town Pub, Pasadena, inaugural band show!
Moscow is also being talked about for sometime later in feb, early in March alongside Tiki's band Piel (awesome as they come...)

Joaquin Phoenix cover and the interview

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b163337_inside_joaquin_phoenixs_brilliant.html

So I did the interview with E! at my house to talk about working with Joaquin (Phoenix) and Antony (Langdon).
My immediate reaction was to be a little worried that it might be an attempted tabloid hatchet job, because of all the negative press that Mister Phoenix has been getting for his rap foray.
I relistened to the old album, and discovered that I do genuinely really like it, and have a deal of affection for the songs. I thought to express this heartfelt feeling in the interview. I may have overstated this in retrospect, and the quotes from me are hilariously overamped with too many superlatives flying around. I remember being asked if I thought Joaquin was a genius, and in reply I said that he was "very talented" This, of course has been misquoted.
Anyhow, as to the cover... I debated as to whether it was respectful of the writers to do a version of a song that I played on that has as yet not been released.
I have been asked hundreds of times by people who are interested in the project, what style it was in and why it was not released. Short of passing out copies of the record (as I have it in my possession) which of course is completely out of the question, I thought to at least indicate the direction of the songs, and the quality of the writing, if not also Joaquin's prodigious production skills, being served merely by my own abilities in this area.
I hope Joaq and Antony will forgive me my indiscretion, and enjoy the tribute as it was intended, which is with Love and respect!

Julian x x

Friday, January 22, 2010

Undefined - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

It never rains but it pours
I have my pain as you have yours
Float like driftwood in the sea
I been searching for the truth but the truth keeps finding me.

You bring it up and leave it undefined you know how to make me
You torture me so elegant refined, you know how to break me

So the future's here
Or is it just another year
For me to decide
I been searching for the truth but it's hidden in the lies

You bring it up and leave it undefined, you know how to make me
You torture me so elegant refined you know how to break me

After all this time, I still believe in Life, I won't let this die
I think I can pretend that we could be just friends, but this love will not die

You bring it up and leave it undefined, you know how to make me
You torture me so elegant refined, you know how to break me

Lullabies - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

Oh my little girl, I told the moon to shine for you
Oh my little one, I told the tides to bring my love

Oceans deep
As you drift into sleep

Oh my little girl, I told the stars to keep you warm
Oh my little child, your angels safe inside

Silver streams
As you slip into dreams

And if you wake up, don't be scared
And if you wake up, I'll be there
To sing lullabies for you

Oh my little girl, as my fingers stroke your hair
Oh my little sweet, as my kisses brush your cheek

Safe from harm
As you fall into my arms

And if you wake up, don't be scared
And if you wake up, I'll be there
To sing lullabies for you

Communication - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

I cannot communicate,
I’m just trying to stay awake
Wish someone would take my hand
And pull me out of this sinking sand

I don’t want to know what’s wrong
Why does my body feel so numb
All these words will go to waste
I cannot communicate

Communication

All these pictures in my book,
All these memories that I took
All the reasons that I found
Take my flickr spread around

Communication

And if everything’s alright and if everything’s OK
Then why do I feel so lost along the way?
When the fallout from the night always follows through the day
Then we lose the will to communicate

All the lessons that we learned
From the times that we got burned
Will never ameliorate
Our fragile mental state

I don’t want to know what’s wrong
Why does my body feel so numb
All these words will go to waste,
Because I cannot communicate

Communication

And if everything’s alright and if everything’s OK
Then why do I feel so lost along the way?
When the fallout from the night always follows through the day
Then we lose the will to communicate

Everything Is You - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

All the creepy things, and all the beautiful things
Because everything is you
All the dark things and all the wonderful things
Because everything is you

'Cause you are inside.

For F

Wetter - Lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

If you're getting bored with the conversation, let's get down to the penetration
You're the object of my fascination I want to make you wet with my perspiration now
The wetter the better

You burn me out like a flame, I want you
Your body is the reason that I came, the wetter the better I want you I want you
You run me off the rails like a train, I want you
Your body is the reason that I came, the wetter the better I want you I want you

If we fall in the water, don't you worry, we'll have those wet clothes off in a hurry
Got nothing left to wear then don't you shake it, let's go home and just get naked now
The wetter the better

You burn me out like a flame, I want you
Your body is the reason that I came, the wetter the better I want you I want you
You run me off the rails like a train, I want you
Your body is the reason that I came, the wetter the better I want you I want you
I want you to come and burn me out

Christine - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

For a lost friend, Christine Shroy-Hull

Why are the fires still burning?
How can this world keep on turning?
Without the love that we’re learning
Oh Christine?

As the kiss of the needle
Delivers you to the real world
Sweet as the hit of a feeling
Oh Christine

For all the battles you won
You strap your feather suit on
Disintegrate in the sun
Light up so the dark age will disappear

Est ce qu’un ange passe partout
Sur les ailes d’une priere elu?
Je te donnerais mon amour
Oh Christine

For all the battles you won
You strap your feather suit on
Disintegrate in the sun
Light up so the dark age will disappear

Even if this life could give all the love you need
I guess you had enough
I wish I could trade some time for the pain in your world
In spite of it all

Resurrection Road - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

Your name is love, you are the universe to me.
Like a breath of fresh air or a hit of ecstasy
Sliding through my skin

You are the whisper of prayer, where the celebrant kiss the ground.
The winds in your hair, your body soft like a cloud
Bursting just for me.

On Resurrection Road
My disconnection note
I may not be a man, but at least I aint a ghost
I just want to bring you shelter from the cold

Tangled my thoughts as they scatter like grains of sand
Shifting over you
Slip through my fingers as you tumble from my hand
Shiver black to blue

On Resurrection Road
My disconnection note
I may not be a man, but I think I aint a ghost
I just want to bring you shelter from the cold

My lips bring life to every word you say

Everything I do, everything is Love
Everything for you, everything is Love

(Melody) For You - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

I hide behind these strings from nettles and beestings
This road to my fortress is travelled more or less
Because I broke it down when I wrote it down.

The music's a river I float down forever
Now you are my rudder as you guide my fingers
And I sail you down as I write you down

A melody shimmers like sun on the ripples, it glides
On over the surface and down through the shadows inside
My melody glistens like dew in the morning, it slides
Out through my breathing and into the being for you I fly through time

you're my destination, most precious creation
These moments of pleasure bring me kisses to treasure
As I lay you down and I write you down

A melody shimmers like sun on the ripples, it glides
On over the surface and down through the shadows inside
My melody glistens like dew in the morning, it slides
Out through my breathing and into the being for you I fly through time

For S

Evaporate - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

Oh Mother, I was drowning,
Now I'm lighter than the air
These bars can't hold me in
As bubbles

We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside
We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside.

Oh Mother, let me go
We've been moving much too slow
I want the atmosphere to
Melt right through me

We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside
We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside.

Watch me rise like steam
Born inside this dream

We circle round
We circle round

All my life I'm circulating
To find a place that we can stay in

We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside
We evaporate, intensify the outside
On the inside.

Watch me rise like steam
Born inside this dream
Watch me fall like snow
Whitens morning glow
As I drift like leaves.....

Beautiful World - lyrics

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

Where's the relief in not coming down
When I step off the roof and float to the ground
Seeing flickers in my fire once again
And it feels just like I'm trying to forget

I spend all my days wishing life away
You can be so tired you never want to wake
And these visions that I have just blur in the end
Because I fell into my self again

And you want to live it and you can't forgive it
It's a beautiful world
And you'll never leave it and you don't believe it
It's a beautiful world

Where's the belief in your history
And where's the relief from your misery
Failing flickers in my fire once again
Because I fell into myself again

And you want to live it and you can't forgive it
It's a beautiful world
And you'll never leave it and you don't believe it
It's a beautiful world

We all feel the same so don't give your life away
We all feel the pain so don't give your life away

And you want to live it and you can't forgive it
It's a beautiful world
And you'll never leave it and you don't believe it
It's a beautiful world

Angel (For an angel)

From one whose reaches outstretches his grasp
From the Capulet tomb to the kiss of the asp
"I wander down corridors, find no open doors"
But an angel for an angel sees heaven on earth

To one whose radiance blanches the moon
A thief, like an old god who appears in a room
"I step out of the rain and into the storm"
But an angel for an angel sees heaven on earth

E! Interview featuring me...

Inside Joaquin Phoenix's "Brilliant" Long-Lost Album

Thu., Jan. 21, 2010 3:50 PM PST by Natalie Finn and Lindsay Miller
Joaquin Phoenix Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

Long before it was all about the beard, it was all about the music.

More than a year before Joaquin Phoenix set a new standard for lethargy on Letterman and said he was abandoning the movie biz to pursue a career in hip-hop, the Oscar-nominated actor wrote and recorded what sounds like a masterpiece.

"He's a Beatles, Oasis, Bowie-style songwriter. I hold it in that high esteem," L.A. musician Julian Shah-Taylor, who collaborated on the album with Phoenix, exclusively tells E! News.

Well, if that description is accurate, so would we...if we ever get to hear what he's talking about!

"He's accomplished just about everything anyone could accomplish as an artist," Shah-Taylor continued, hypothesizing why Phoenix's musical artistry may remain long lost.

"So coming out with a brilliant album of great music would not surprise anybody, and I think that's maybe why he didn't release it...And I think it's better to have some secrets, and I think Joaquin's secret is his prodigious music talent."

Shah-Taylor says that he met the Walk the Line star through Spacehog member Anthony Langdon (Liv Tyler's almost-ex-brother-in-law) and producer Alan McGee.

Over the course of a couple of months in 2007, they recorded eight tracks, most of them at Phoenix's in-house recording studio at his L.A. home, Shah-Taylor says.

Never mind what was to come, the musician tells us that Phoenix wasn't withdrawn at all, but was instead "bubbly" and "effervescent."

And not only was he a crackerjack singer-songwriter, he apparently also produced the hell out of the album.

"He was one of the most demonstrative producers I've ever worked with," Shah-Tayler says. "He would absolutely take you through the mental process of getting through it. Brilliant. He got exactly what he wanted and he got some of the best work out of me, as a pianist, that I have ever performed."

As for Phoenix's hip-hop aspirations, Shah-Taylor believes "he's quite capable of whatever he turns his hand to...Whatever it is, it will be genius, because I think he's close to genius."

We shall see. A rep for Phoenix's pal Casey Affleck told E! News last week that the documentary he was shooting about his friend's foray into hip-hop is now in postproduction.

Listen to Shah-Taylor's cover of "Cracked," penned and originally recorded by Phoenix and Langdon with Shah-Taylor on piano, right here.

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b163337_inside_joaquin_phoenixs_brilliant.html

Thursday, January 21, 2010

So I have managed to do the EPs

There are now 4 EPs and an album in the pipeline.
Here are the covers:
"Un Ange Passe"
Cover for Un Ange Passe in memory of Christine Shroy. Photography of Christine by Natalie Clarke.

"Blah Blah Blahnik"


"Fill Your Joys With Love"


"Maison d'Etre"


"Coito Ergo Sum"

I am pretty sure that is the order in which they will come out. You can preview them all on Last FM, but I would wait until they are officially released. No one needs a deluge of material! They are all also very distinct in style.... I am so looking forward to taking a break one of these days. Probably when I go to Manila!

x x

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

I love this man (purely platonic ofcourse)

Please check out amazing go-to guy for fantastic musical recommendations, brilliant directing skills and general all round wonderful human beingness... Victor Ridaura in his new column: Geekweek : - "music you should know":
http://www.geekweek.com/2010/01/music-you-should-know-la-roux.html

Breakthrough Band interview.

December 7th 2009

Your Music: Julian Shah-Taylor

JulianShahTaylor

http://www.impossiblethingsrecords.com/shah/



Julian Shah-Taylor, self-producing artist, speaks with Breakthrough Band about his music and offers an inside look at the path he is trekking.



Breakthrough Band: How would you describe your music?



Julian Shah-Taylor: I would describe it as varied and informed by all sorts of different influences. I love all sorts of music from Classical to Avant Garde electronica and everything in between, so I like to reference as much as I can to make something beautiful that is unclassifiable. I would like it to be sensual and thoughtful.




BB: How do you produce your music?



JST: I record everything in my bedroom on a laptop and use one SM58 to mic everything from vocals to dulcimer/toy piano. I mix in Protools and play everything live, except for Arp Synths, which kind of play themselves!





BB: As a new artist, what was the biggest challenge that you have had to overcome?



JST: Distancing myself from what is expected of me from my previous bands. Also, getting trapped into a particular bracket. It is also impossible to find dedicated musicians who can put the time in that I would like.




BB: What is your favorite social networking or media web site and why?



JST: Facebook, because it is a lot more personal than the others.




BB: What advice do you have for others who are looking to start a band or market their music?



JST: Define your audience, target them, and mean it. Never do it for the wrong reasons…it is obvious and that comes through in the music.





Check out Julian’s Music Here:

www.impossiblethingsrecords.com/shah

www.myspace.com/juliandrinkme

www.facebook.com/jshahtayler

www.twitter.com/julianshah

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

http://www.breakthroughband.com/Series/YourMusic/YourMusic_JulianShahTaylor.html

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici

Watched V for Vendetta last night again, and was very happy to say that it lived up to my very vague memories of enjoying it (having watched it in a time of shall we say "diminished resposibility" through the lost years) Nathan borrowed and never returned anything I lent him, actually. He still has some subconscious knowledge of where he hid it, I guess. Tiki is NOT a fan, as she made clear to me last night!
I recommend it wholeheartedly if you have not seen it. I believe that Natalie Portman does a great, and pretty realistic version of a little English girl, although I have to say most Brits are a little bigger than her!
The message is so poignant for everyone, and is certainly not beholden to the English only.

I subsequently watched "The Queen" with Helen Mirren, and I just have to say if I did not love my Grandmother so dearly, I would wish for Helen to be my surrogate... Fantastic film.....

x x

A stream of consciousness piece. Supposed to be telling of your state of mind. Was not recent, btw....

stream

the wives make me horrified in a big dart green overstuffed teddy-boy and electric cars being the result of several little species of experimental monkey grades and phoned it to the moon space of the ears through the space of the cretan cetaceous and bloody nose speaking english for you guys and special results well corrected through series of hypotheses not resulting in a tepid reaction hello to the space-boy and tangled up in blizzards of the snow records a couple of pleasure units reunited with the step in razor lines thematically linked with some other being that i cannot hope to compete with a superior intellect wonderful youth and aged trough piggies and reckless angels reenacting a private war internally cranial fluids dripping through the instamatic and breathing a certain level of hydro-carbonic flagellating oxygenated and sulphuric benzoate terrifying notes music that twists the fragile mind around the levels of hurt and engenders a little piece of wonderful masturbatory torture becoming levels plates shifting and cubes manoeuvering a little danse macabre revolting crushed energies pulped thoughts revival of physical meandering trickling voices talking in languages that have no sound leaves from the ram roots in the subway sex in the underground between and off the rails behind and underneath clouds or grit and blood crystalising on form off liberation the horrifying clutch of cash and remunerating by distillation big in the front of beacons a little light distraction from the inevitable fall the inevitable lesions the inevitable destruction of the one and being like the bang and the bong results in a closure of health strong body strong in mind strong in beast and animal hedge bleed bleed bleed bleed bleed and rejoice letting holes appear where the pins originate from your own piss and can’t fall between the gaps in the epidermis skin raped by light and musky bent belief con-sister reef coral organism orgasm organ orchestra front line opera beesting berating did not keep happy did not become organic lift shafts living with one’s own enemy exile in the mirror refugees in cedar in solomon decree percolate an idea to half a pendulum swinging with a strange fruit popular tree bungee leaping into holes and fingers in your eyes tongue in your ass scratching your thighs and ripping your tights with hair not bruised and plucked and ripped from the roots blades and needles sharp and shape in aspic roman oblivion incredulous out aloud from the beginning of a new way of thinking where anything can be advice anything is a vice in a vise and vice versa crippling thought and stunting growth like bonsai mind writing automatic on a typewriter where pen and pencil never touches paper never leaves a mark and intangible program means always loss when electric failure brings shutdown of tubes with suspicion of terrorists in the bushes and under the beds running scared and sacred in the park believed to miss the sanctity of life running towards a dreamed for revolt against breath touching hearts with unknown missives towards the unthought-of love never disappears with a cut off like the end of something beautiful i live me i love you i love you and you love me and that is always going to be a mystery hell something had to rhyme and make sense or who would read this crap only i would if i wanted to one lost afternoon i think that my fingers smell of you and they do and i want to have you here and i want to fuck you again and again and i am talking myself into a frenzy and i sit and wait like a mushroom for a bizarre intrusion that will let me understand something i wasn’t looking for in the first place all work and no play can only give me no play no play no play soon play and more work than ever do not leave this house that many years built i need to live and forget the battalions that consistently tease my conscience and remove my confidence and content to confellate conmen unconditionally coming towards some kind of a conflagration sounding like a fucking dictionary or a thesaurus unselfconsciously and ridiculously believing a title plastic identity crisis paper saving devices that fill a thousand rooms and a gigabyte hell land because of you my heart’s in two because the sandpaper inside the skull removes more than a layer of the raw and leaves a synonym and i don’t really know what that means at least not define it until i really need to and not thinking in english just feeling a keyboard and suggestions of leaders and minty flaps forward to music that i never did see and pictures unheard heralding something pathetic and eclectic electric too many use one word many too many times too free hours become minutes and this is an hour am i restless and am i full of tea and my flates darting perusing pretentious english student no work no care no fluke no flair when lechery becomes more important than flagellation and blackmail a substitute for amyl but no ecstasy making brain more astute and concentration being a little more sharper a little more rasp hold grip hairs and crawling walls spiderman always wanted batman always noticed dark and mystery lurks in the corners of a chasm attitude to abyssitude bring on the staring with a thematic reference to dante to nietszche and to shirk-a-garde dutch inventing american strangulation big brother stomping on little brother my friends little people my friends becoming like the others why is the end of the affair sometimes the most pleasurable time there is no unconditional and there are always lies and they come from the closest and they come to the closest don’t tell the truth tell the what they want to hear always bring a shower and leave with the free soap in love bring a shotgun and leave with a bullet for your gun firing close to the bone sometimes truth hurts the teller more than the receiver bring it on bring a chrome barrel spend it well inside thighs lick

Monday, January 18, 2010

Show Me Your Soul- EP artwork ready to go:

Adventure into the world

Making this look pretty.
Went to the Forth magazine party on the weekend, and was very interested in what makes people interested in non-sequitur words and who denotes it poetry..... I submitted some of my poetry to the magazine to see if they would justify it into "art"....
Went to see Danny this evening with Scott, and met a lovely man, I believe he is called "Amp" who used to be signed to Elektra and played in P-Funk for a while. Very nice person. His 18 year old son died last year, which makes my heart sink, and prayers fly to him from inside. He deserves solace. Hope that herbal cleanse works, Brother!
Anyhoo, this week, I have the E! interview tomorrow, and purportedly the Publishing meeting with Barry at Muisc Sales for an Adamandevil deal. Great stuff! Just beginning to get seriously addicted to Scott Walker and Animal Collective.
Also, I finished my cover of "Cracked" by Joquin Phoenix which I decided to make available as part of the "Fill Your Joys With Love" EP on Bandcamp:

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/fill-your-joys-with-love

Saturday, January 16, 2010

I love Louis Theroux

http://quicksilverscreen.com/watch?video=33106

Friday, January 15, 2010

And if you have not already bought. you must!

http://www.amnesty.org.uk/content.asp?CategoryID=11755

Chase the Tear: Portishead

I love it when.....

I find a tune that is worth listening to, and does something perfect and beautiful. Try Hot Chip's new one:
http://pitchfork.com/reviews/tracks/11653-take-it-in/
Avatar also was incredible against all my better judgements.

I have been working with Cameron on her masterwork: The Big I Am (Should that be in ALL capitals)
I have also agreed to be interviewed by E! network on my experiences working with Joaquin Phoenix, and consequently revisiting his songs that I played piano and percussion/sang on. Joaquin was not vocalising, but Antony Langdon from Spacehog was doing a fantastic job of that himself.
I think I am going to do a cover of the song "Cracked" so anyone who is interested might have the opportunity to hear Joaq's prodigious and most respectable songwriting talent.... alongside my best efforts of course!
The song, "Show me your soul" which I wrote for Antony Green's painting of Imelda Marcos' shoes is finished, and he is going to present her with it, and prepare a PR campaign for the whole project in the Phillippines asap alongside a worldwide press release! I will be publishing a limited edition "Greatest Hits" EP for Bandcamp so people can download and listen. Maybe I will put the Joaq cover on that..... two birds with one pebble...... Here are the lyrics for that song:


Show Me Your Soul - A song for Imelda

I've seen empires rise and fall out of the sky,
I've watched history unfold like the iron butterfly
I've danced through life with diamonds on my feet
Along the road that runs right to my destiny

If you wanna walk a mile in my shoes
Show me your soul
One of these days they'll walk all over you
Show me your soul

I am the morning star that brightens up the sky
I am the rose that plucks the thorns out of your side
I am the muse to blinks the angels to your eye
As the sorrow that we face defines our joy

If you wanna walk a mile in my shoes
Show me your soul
One of these days they'll walk all over you
Show me your soul

And your laughter fills with tears
And they're falling through the years
As the world keeps turning round

And there's no time left to cry
So your sorrow fills with joy
As the road keeps rolling on
 

Also, going with Scott to meet Danny Saber to discuss the terms of the publishing that we are looking at with Music Sales.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Avatar

So I made a pact with Cathy that we were not going to see Avatar under any circumstances, as we were fed up of all the hype, and advice from friends was that we were not going to enjoy it at all.
As it happens, it is pretty intense, and if watched in 3d Imax, it is incredible....... Maybe flawed, but maybe just perfect for the target audience.....

Saturday, January 9, 2010

shit.....

Nathan's new album is brilliant....

Friday, January 8, 2010

Mojophenia Review

Julian Shah-Tayler, Un Ange Passe EP.

Not one ounce of an inflated ego detected with this Los Angeles based musician. Currently one half of Adamandevil, Julian Shah-Tayler`s expanding portfolio reads like a hipster`s who`s-who with collaborations and liaisons that many mainstream artists could only dream of, in fact from reading Julian`s bio/credits, multi-instrumentalist, producer and DJ fit nicely within his sublime rock/electronic persona. The forthcoming EP `Un Ange Passe` is currently on pre-release and leads with the hybrid electro/rock track `Wetter` while the elegant, slightly darker parts of the EP create a marvelled Bowie/John Foxx anecdote in a backdrop of current multi-Gigabyte technology. Another stand out track is `Christine`, a personal lament for a lost friend, not at all bitter or despairing but a perfect celebration of life`s many characters. An infectious solo release, metaphorically exciting and a few steps away from acclaimed success.

"He has produced and/or played guitar, bass and keyboards and sung in bands with Siobhan Fahey (ex Shakespear’s Sister/Bananarama), Courtney Love, Joaquin Phoenix, Whitey, drinkme, Adamandevil, Bunny, Piel, Xerox, PFC and many more".

[listen] Julian Shah-Taylor : Wetter

[listen] Julian Shah-Taylor : Communication

[listen] Julian Shah-Taylor : Wetter (Karl Leiker Remix)

Learn More And Buy / Buy

Posted by MOJOPHENIA - Mind Over Music at 8:54 PM 0 comments Links to this post

Labels: AdamandEvil, California, dj, impossible things records, karl leiker, Los Angeles, mp3, producer, remix, whitey

Boom Boom Chik Review

Album Review: @Julianshah- Un Ange Passe

cover
Julian Shah-Tayler is a solo artist who writes, produces and performs all his own music. He has produced and/or played guitar, bass and keyboards and sung in bands with Siobhan Fahey, Courtney Love, Joaquin Phoenix, Whitey, drinkme, Adamandevil, Bunny, Piel, Xerox, PFC and many more.

He is set to release his debut Solo EP, “Un Ange Passe” on Impossible Things Records. The debut EP has a very special meaning to Julian as it is a dedication to his friend/muse Christine Shroy-Hull who passed in September of this year.

Almost All of the tracks on his EP are in some ways dedications to Christine for the inspiration she gave him. He does this by crafting some indie-rock/electronic tracks that can go from upbeat dance party to moments of reflection on the things life throws at you. Playing all the instruments on this EP, you can tell this guy has massive talent as a musician. Be it the crazy guitar solos on “Wetter”, or the dark/ mysterious instruments played on “Communication”, he crafts songs that really invoke emotions within the listener. This guy has something going for him, and when his EP drops, I think people will start to notice.

The album will be available on January 1 st 2010 through all digital retailers. Also worth mentioning is that anyone that buys the special edition EP CD from the Impossible Things Records website will also get a bespoke recording for them by Julian. It may be a specially recorded song, a live favorite, a version of a song from the EP or something else altogether, but guaranteed to be available to no-one else in the world.

enjoY!

Julian Shah-Tayler – Wetter

Nerdy Frames Blog Review

Alan McGee favourite Julian Shah-Tayler (ex Whitey guitar player) to release debut solo EP - "Un Ange Passe" on 1st January



Julian Shah-Tayler

Wetter EP – “Un Ange Passe” released 01/01/2010

Your browser may not support display of this image.

“Wetter is Massive, It will make (Julian) a star” – Alan McGee (Oasis/Primal Scream/My Bloody Valentine)

“Very Impressed” – David J (Bauhaus/Love and Rockets)

Broadjam - 2 Number 1s – California and Alternative Rock

5 Garageband “tracks of the day”

Played guitar in “Whitey” – cowriting the smash hit “Wrap It Up”

(heard in “Whip It”, GTA 4, Sopranos, Kyle XY and CSI Miami)

Played Keys/Sang with Siobhan Fahey (Shakespear’s Sister)

Played keyboards/sang on Joaquin Phoenix’s solo album,
Played guitar for Kerli (Island Def Jam)








Now releasing the debut solo EP “Un Ange Passe” in tribute to Christine Shroy-Hull who left us on the 6th September 2009 and features on the cover.

It will be released on iTunes , all download sites and special edition CD mail order via Impossible Things Records on 1st January 2010

Anyone that buys the special edition EP CD from the Impossible Things Records website will also get a bespoke recording for them by Julian. It might be a specially recorded song, a live favourite, a version of a song from the EP or something else altogether, but guaranteed to be available to no-one else in the world (unless they upload it themselves..... Ask for something specific, you might maybe perhaps perchance get it, but be careful what you wish for!!

It is currently available for pre-release download on the free/donation site via this link: http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

http://www.myspace.com/juliandrinkme

http://www.facebook.com/jshahtayler



&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe"&amp;amp;gt;Wetter by Julian Shah-Tayler&amp;amp;lt
;/a&amp;amp;gt;

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe - (free/donation download of prelease EP)
www.impossiblethingsrecords.com
www.myspace.com/juliandrinkme
www.facebook.com/jshahtayler

Mark Fisher Blog Review

Julian Shah-Tayler - Un Ange Passe - Mark Fisher's Music Review

Julian Shah-Tayler
Un Ange Passe
Pick For The Day
Genre
Alternative / Rock / Pop

Location
Los Angeles, California
United States

This Selection
Has Six inventive tracks
"Christine" seems to stick in the Head.

"Everything Is You"
Is more like a Early 70's track
Blended with Today's Madness
Vocals Are Excellent.

"Communication"
Is filled with many sounds
in the intro that intrigue the listener...
Wonderful vocals fill the track.

"Wetter" is a wild track filled
An Electro Beat and Great Mixing!
I Suggest listening to these tracks.

Final Comment

The Production is Superior
on this release of tracks.
Cheers On You!

© Mark Fisher 2009

To Contact Mark Fisher

E-Mail to; firststampmultimedia@yahoo

Beehive Candy Blog Review

Julian Shah-Tayler is a solo artist who writes, produces and performs his own music. His EP - "Un Ange Passe" (dedicated to the memory of Christine Shroy-Hull) is released on 1st January, 2010. His debut album, “Coito Ergo Sum” is due for release spring 2010 on Impossible Thing Records.

Julian has played guitar in 'Whitey' co writing the smash hit “Wrap It Up” which has been featured in Whip It, GTA 4, Sopranos, Kyle XY and CSI Miami. He has also played keys & sang with Siobhan Fahey (Shakespear’s Sister), and played keyboards & sang on Joaquin Phoenix’s solo album among others!

Having listened to a number of his his songs, I reckon he could well break through in 2010, which would be deserved as his song writing and performance is quite stunning. The melodies and variety of styles he uses along with first class production have really gained my attention.

Beehive Candy Blog

San Gabriel Valley Press review

Julian Shah-Tayler honors a muse with EP
By Michelle J. Mills Staff Writer
Posted: 12/31/2009 04:03:23 PM PST

Los Angeles musician Julian Shah-Tayler recently took a break from working on his next album to create a tribute to his friend, Christine Shroy-Hull.
"We used to talk about things and I used to write songs that she would encourage," said Shah-Tayler, who often performs locally at the Old Town Pub in Pasadena. "I would play her the songs and she would give feedback."
When Shroy-Hull, who lived in Pennsylvania, died of a heroin overdose in September, her family wrote to Shah-Tayler asking him to release a song he had written for her. He finessed the composition and then decided to release the six-track EP, "Un Ange Passe" (Impossible Things Records), in her honor today. The effort features other tunes Shroy-Hull inspired or enjoyed, as well as a photo of her on its cover.
Shah-Tayler has produced for and performed with artists such as Siobhan Fahley (Bananarama), Courtney Love, Joaquin Phoenix, Whitey, drinkme, Bunny, Piel and more. His music has been heard on "The Sopranos" and on the Discovery Channel. He also played on the soundtracks of "Penelope," featuring Christina Ricci, and "The Golden Age," with Cate Blanchett.
Shah-Tayler has a wide-reaching repertoire, which includes singer/songwriter selections to danceable songs invoking a London new-wave feel.
"My music is influenced by all different areas of music today," Shah-Tayler said. "I'm classically trained, so that's constantly in the back of my head, but I also

[Wetter]

have an avant garde approach to what I want to do with melody and what I want to do with chords. I really want to make something that's not comfortable to begin with."
Shah-Tayler grew up in England. His mother originally wanted to be an opera singer, but set her dream aside to care for him. His grandmother was a music teacher, who taught Shah-Tayler piano and encouraged him to learn the trumpet. He also sang in school choir and was singing professionally by age 7.
He continued his music studies in school, learning violin, viola, piano and church organ, while teaching himself guitar, flute and other instruments. But at the university, Shah-Tayler majored in philosophy.
"I found the study of music, particularly classical music, a little bit wrong for the magic," Shah-Tayler said. "When you're writing your own stuff, it's best not to have a series of rules nagging at the back of your head: I can't transition to that chord or I can't put that there. There are a lot of rules in classical music that you just have to abandon to be a writer in rock music today."
He is a prolific writer, penning 70-80 songs per year, all inspired by the people around him.
"I write so much that there's not really a process," he said. "I've had a complete song come to me in my dreams and I've also sat down and thought of a bass line and then built something meticulously from the bass line or I've just heard a beat that I really want to merge something on to."
Shah-Tayler is collaborating with electronica artist Jason Air and is a member of the local band Adamandevil. He also deejays at clubs across the nation, including the Key Club in Los Angeles, and runs the acoustic club, Standard Tunings, at the Standard Hotel in Los Angeles with Scott Fairbrother. His next full-length effort, "Coito Ergo Sum," is scheduled for release in spring.
"All I want is people to enjoy the music," he said. "I don't expect to become a millionaire."
People can order a physical copy of "Un Ange Passe" directly from his Web site. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/juliandrin
kme.
michelle.mills@sgvn.com

Geekweek review/post

V Ridaura | Dec 25 2009, 8:12 PM

photo.php.jpg

Julian Shah-Tayler is an LA native that has paid his dues in the underground circle. He has played in such distinct bands as WHITEY (co-writing the smash hit “Wrap It Up” - featured in “Whip It”, GTA4, and Sopranos) and his current band ADAMANDEVIL perfecting his brand of Dance-Rock tunes, and pensive ballads.

Recently, I had the chance to see Julian’s show first hand and was astounded to see the amount of energy he brought to the stage. The audience ate the whole thing up, particularly The Klaxon sounding, Louis XIV swaggering song called WETTER.

His debut solo EP “Un Ange Passe” will be released January 1st on iTunes via Impossible Records, and contains the very catchy, very danceable song, BUT being as awesome as I am, you can get it NOW for free (or pay however you want) via this link:

http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe

But heed my warning, all you music mavens out there, these songs are available for free only until January 1st... SO GET 'EM NOW!

Enjoy!

http://www.geekweek.com/2009/12/free-mp3-julian-shahtayler-wetter.html

Thursday, January 7, 2010

30th Century Man

Scott Walker documentary. Watch and weep...

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Worst Mother in the world EVER

Show Me Your Sole

So the song is formulating slowly. Manila rhymes with Vanilla, and Sole is a homophone with Soul. Hooray for me being punny..... It is NOT going to sound anything like this :

OK, so this tune is just incredible. Animal Who? x

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Working on confusion.

I am so confused right now. I am supposed to be writing this amazing, witty tribute/comment on Imelda Marcos' shoes for my good friend Anthony Green, who deserves my help, and has promised that I will come with him to Manila to meet the lady herself. I am also supposed to be meeting with Scott to get started on finishing the Adamandevil record (whatever format that might take)
I am also working on an ongoing record with Cameron (Native Fauna) and her erstwhile boyfriend, Nick (who now plays with the ex members of Panic! at the Disco) for a dayjob.
My grandmother is now once again in hospital to be observed for bleeding.
I also have agreed to do the sound on my friend Andy's film. This is for money, and a film throughout which my music is peppered....
All I can seem to do is watch episodes of "Tom Goes To The Mayor" and "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia" - Hmmmm. Got to get into the swing of 2010.
Watched Lolita for the first time ever, and remembered why Peter Sellers is right up there with Peter Cook....
Also, I have decided to drink much less, ie one drink maximum a day. That will save money, health and happiness in theory.
The blog responses to the EP "Un Ange Passe" http://julianshah-tayler.bandcamp.com/album/un-ange-passe Cover for Un Ange Passe in memory of Christine Shroy. Photography of Christine by Natalie Clarke.
have been fantastic and I am very very happy with the encouraging reports that it has been receiving. It is now also available on iTunes etc. I thank everyone who has supported this, and those of my friends who have downloaded the EP for free/money. Also to Michelle, from the San Gabriel Valley Press who gave me my first proper print article/interview.
Anyhow. I am listening mostly to the Cocteau Twins.
I am going to try and keep this blog growing from now on. Film thoughts, book thoughts, life and music commentary, I guess. New Year sweeps clean.... Love. x x