This weekend was a fun one.
Friday was our chance to check out Tim Burton's new display at LACMA, which was OK I guess. I think he is a more talented designer and director than artist, which makes sense....
On saturday Cat and I went to Las Vegas to see Kid DJ and Paul Oakenfold tear up Rain nightclub at the Palms Hotel.
Cole (Kid DJ) is 14 and Cat's nephew. He totally owned that stage. Also, he played a vocal that I did for him of the Stone Roses classic "I Wanna Be Adored" towards the end of the set. I was very proud of him, and a little bashful when Josef and him were pointing at me during the track to be honest....
We left pretty much straight after his set, and slept in the room with Alex Tovar, his wife, brother and his friend. Whoever it was that was snoring was very talented in that department....
Anyhow, on the sunday we explored the Cosmopolitan hotel, which was pretty impressive on the art department.... then went to an indian restaurant for a lunch treat, and it was exactly that. A wonderful buffet at a place called "Mint Indian Bistro" on Flamingo, which was full of indians (a great sign, obviously....) and great food
We then drove back via the outlets to buy me some running trousers and a swim suit.
When we got back to Cat's we watched an area 51 Documentary which was OK, then "The Road" which was unbearably dark and depressing. I find Viggo Mortensen a little bland and unsympathetic at the best of times. It was a sweet enough story in some ways I guess, although how they managed to get such a relentless book made into a film escapes me.... I could do with the spare millions.
Monday we decided that we should see Hangover 2, and I was bored and irritated by its terrible script and hackneyed "Jackass" style humour. Jock film through and through in the most unelaborate way imaginable... Don't bother...
Monday evening we had rehearsal with "Tiger Blood" which was fun, we put "Hand To Hold" into the set (nearly) and then went to Pomona way to do some Karaoke, during which experience I performed "Suedehead" by Morrissey alongside Jorge's Soundgarden rendition.... Don't know the name of the song, but we definitely both nailed it in front of one of the best live karaoke bands in the land.
Today (tuesday) I have been still remixing. I remixed "Perfect" and "Trains" and "Another Breakdown" which will not see the light of day until I have it right....
Also, dinner at Tender Greens with Brian Ziff/Kerli. Nice to catch up with those two little dolls.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
BBC local radio play!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00gzq4y
Unfortunately I can't listen to this one, but apparently they played my song "Perfect" on this show....
Unfortunately I can't listen to this one, but apparently they played my song "Perfect" on this show....
Friday, May 27, 2011
I quite like this one.... Alternative 3 album review.....
I am a FAN. This band are ace, and there is no doubt in my mind that with the right place/right time interface, they could clean up everywhere.
This album is the culmination of months of hibernation in their studio, honing the shimmering retro sounds of Duran Duran and early Blur. At first listen, it throws you into a spin, as it is so unusual to hear an album that glitters so bright with casual pop diamonds as these.
It is impossible to say which of these songs could possibly NOT be a single, from the poptastic 'Let's Go Electronic' all the way to mindblending elegaic epitaph, 'The Light Years Ahead'.
This could even be argued to be one of the faults of the record. The reason it drops half a star: every card that is played is an Ace, an uptempo blast of exuberant electronic energy that leaves you exhilarated and ecstatic, with no room to breathe.
Littering the little binary dots are highs that compete with all the breathless energy that coexists in the world of music. It is dismissive to describe them as simple pop, as every note is as considered as surgery, and each performance is as perfect as creation. This clinical precision, this mechanical soul gives it its one flaw.
A little more humanity (real bass and drums?) would lift the communication to a higher plane. That said, 'Heaven Underground, Vision, Feels Like' are all magnificent essays into the science of perfect pop.
They are a duo of massive talent and if there is a God, he sings these songs in the shower.
Essential.
Brilliant.
Unassailable.
http://drownedinsound.com/releases/4763/reviews/7478-alternative-3-the-light-years-ahead
This album is the culmination of months of hibernation in their studio, honing the shimmering retro sounds of Duran Duran and early Blur. At first listen, it throws you into a spin, as it is so unusual to hear an album that glitters so bright with casual pop diamonds as these.
It is impossible to say which of these songs could possibly NOT be a single, from the poptastic 'Let's Go Electronic' all the way to mindblending elegaic epitaph, 'The Light Years Ahead'.
This could even be argued to be one of the faults of the record. The reason it drops half a star: every card that is played is an Ace, an uptempo blast of exuberant electronic energy that leaves you exhilarated and ecstatic, with no room to breathe.
Littering the little binary dots are highs that compete with all the breathless energy that coexists in the world of music. It is dismissive to describe them as simple pop, as every note is as considered as surgery, and each performance is as perfect as creation. This clinical precision, this mechanical soul gives it its one flaw.
A little more humanity (real bass and drums?) would lift the communication to a higher plane. That said, 'Heaven Underground, Vision, Feels Like' are all magnificent essays into the science of perfect pop.
They are a duo of massive talent and if there is a God, he sings these songs in the shower.
Essential.
Brilliant.
Unassailable.
http://drownedinsound.com/releases/4763/reviews/7478-alternative-3-the-light-years-ahead
I used to write reviews for Drowned in Sound! This is my one for "A New Morning" by Suede
It is the turn of the century.
Urchin boys run through the streets, their lovable faces stained black with coal dust and grime from the chimneys of Victorian London. A perpetual pea-souper reduces vision to a few feet. Languishing in an opium den off the New Regent Street is a foppish waif. His addled brain is misting with fin de siecle visions. A nightmarish concrete wilderness appears, inhabited by dogs and nuclear skyscrapers. A swivel-hipped messiah flounces onto the stage, antidote to the Love and Poison of London. His floppy haired foil twists tremulous and razor sharp daggers of noise from his 6 strings…..
A New Morning dawns, and the vision fades.
That was last century. It’s a long time in Pop music and politics. What made Suede great is now a pipe dream. Maybe it was the drugs that made them great. Maybe it was Bernard.
They aren’t even a shadow of a shadow of what they were.
See “Little Kix” by Mansun
http://drownedinsound.com/releases/3102/reviews/5014
Amazon Reviews! Thanks people....
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant on all levels!, May 26, 2011
By
Katie - See all my reviews
This review is from: Coito Ergo Sum (MP3 Download)
I listen to this album all the time- at work , at home, and in my car. I just LOVE it! From Profound lyrics, to beautiful vocals and spectacular musicianship, this one has it all. My favorite song is the piano driven Electricity, but I also really like the unique sound of Saltwater. This whole CD is so dynamic, and I really enjoy every song.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Don't Let the Title Intimidate You., October 13, 2010
By
Cathy (Altadena, US, Canada) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Coito Ergo Sum (MP3 Download)
Don't let the title of "Coito Ergo Sum" intimidate you. This is a worthwhile listen that can fit any mood; melancholy, romantic, thoughtful, sexy, inventive. If you are a die-hard fan of Bowie, Prince, or David Sylvian... you will adore this! I'm not(!) (well die-hard anyway), and the tracks grew on me with their ambitious complexities and surprises that kept me interested. I'm a sucker for heavy piano stuff and Electricity's melody is a real hummer; while "Roman Tower 982" is unpredictable and enigmatically lavish. Julian Shah-Tayler's voice is AWESOME, his songwriting- poignant. "Wetter"- everyone will get it, and not just those who know Latin.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Shockingly Talented, May 27, 2011
By
splhcb78 - See all my reviews
This review is from: Coito Ergo Sum (Audio CD)
Julian is a songwriter and musician whose ease with textured rich harmonies and thoughtfully clever and poetic lyrics leads to this: a criminally underground release that deserves the bright light of international recognition. As a DJ, my favorite track is 'Wetter' - a bouncy throwback to the best of 80's New Wave that delivers a hooky chorus that never fails on the dance floor, and that you'll be singing for days after! 'Electricity' is one of those songs you put on during a really great cry - delicate lilting melody, sensitive, soulful, emotionally connected, and just really well written. 'Revolution,' 'Beautiful World,' 'Show Me Your Soul,' and 'Northern Light' bring in a little muscle - power chords and stronger vocals that are thick enough to satisfy the alt-rock fan.
There is not a single dud in this collection - this album is the real deal. Come over over over for the Revolution!
I wish I had known this one would prove to be so popular!
Aubade from the Mother's Day trailer. I made this video very quickly just to get the song up on Youtube. So little time, and I should have done a better job! ;)
x
I made the Rebel Riffs end of 2010 list
OK, so I made the best of 2010 list with "Rebelriffs" :)
by Julian Shah-Tayler on Sunday, 16 January 2011 at 14:10
2010 Tracks Of The Year Overview
Last year I said 2009 was the busiest review year ever, but I've still managed to up the totals (and that doesn't include videos and other sideshows). I ended up listening and reviewing some 459 tracks over the last year, of which many were album and/or EP reviews. I didn't know busy, huh? Nonetheless, only 141 of those bad boys stuck around long enough on my playlist to become contenders today. This is slightly less even than last year, which just goes to show you how ruthless I have to be about this. Moreover, I suffered a REAL bad hardddrive problem early in the year so maybe the figures are a bit whack from previous years but hey, *** happens right?
TRACKS OF THE YEAR - THE KEEPERS
Exceptional Tracks by the Month (either Highly Recommended or Must Have)
Link Key: (RR) Rebel Riffs (MIX) Mixposure otherwise Soundclick or a site such as You Tube etc...check the original review.
November
-----------------------
Eddie Cohn - Stay With Me LP (RR)
Rustik - Smoke Rings
333maxwell - Where You'll Find You
Avalanche - Not My Style
Satellite 3 - Playing With Fire
Julian Shah-Tayler - Wetter (RR)
Ratchet - Compromise
Pidgeman - Beast Of Halloween
Zebrabook - Piercing
Sunburn in Cyprus - If It's Good For Me
Thomas J Marchant - Ego
Speak Words Speak - Out Of Love
Whitman Speck - I Love To Hate You
Inessa Lee - Living Doll tracks (RR)
http://rebelriffs.blogspot.com/2011/01/year-end-review-of-2010-stevies.html
by Julian Shah-Tayler on Sunday, 16 January 2011 at 14:10
2010 Tracks Of The Year Overview
Last year I said 2009 was the busiest review year ever, but I've still managed to up the totals (and that doesn't include videos and other sideshows). I ended up listening and reviewing some 459 tracks over the last year, of which many were album and/or EP reviews. I didn't know busy, huh? Nonetheless, only 141 of those bad boys stuck around long enough on my playlist to become contenders today. This is slightly less even than last year, which just goes to show you how ruthless I have to be about this. Moreover, I suffered a REAL bad hardddrive problem early in the year so maybe the figures are a bit whack from previous years but hey, *** happens right?
TRACKS OF THE YEAR - THE KEEPERS
Exceptional Tracks by the Month (either Highly Recommended or Must Have)
Link Key: (RR) Rebel Riffs (MIX) Mixposure otherwise Soundclick or a site such as You Tube etc...check the original review.
November
-----------------------
Eddie Cohn - Stay With Me LP (RR)
Rustik - Smoke Rings
333maxwell - Where You'll Find You
Avalanche - Not My Style
Satellite 3 - Playing With Fire
Julian Shah-Tayler - Wetter (RR)
Ratchet - Compromise
Pidgeman - Beast Of Halloween
Zebrabook - Piercing
Sunburn in Cyprus - If It's Good For Me
Thomas J Marchant - Ego
Speak Words Speak - Out Of Love
Whitman Speck - I Love To Hate You
Inessa Lee - Living Doll tracks (RR)
http://rebelriffs.blogspot.com/2011/01/year-end-review-of-2010-stevies.html
Keds interview
KEDS interview - "Meet LA Based Musician Julian Shah-Tayler"
by Julian Shah-Tayler on Monday, 04 April 2011 at 12:03
posted under Art, Keds, Los Angeles, Road Trip on March 29th, 2011
With our UCLA event just two days away, let’s take a look at another all-star musician that will be gracing the “How Do You Do?” stage. Meet Julian Shah-Tayler of Tiger Blood, a London-gone-LA local who you can see at 12pm on UCLA’s Wilson Plaza between the Student Activities Center and Kaufman Hall.
How do you do inspiration?
My music is my diary of the events and thoughts of my life. I tend to write about people that inspire me, events that shock me, how I want to express my feelings to others without having to come out directly to their faces sometimes. It is a cathartic moment to encapsulate a particular feeling within a little musical box…
How do you do Los Angeles?
LA is very different to London, the people love life and the sun is (mostly) shining! It is always good to know people here, as the city is very spread out, but once you know the little secrets, such as great live music venues and wonderful modern architecture, you will grow to love it. People in shops and restaurants are very smiley, which is definitely not the case in Europe so much!
What is your favorite place in LA to see live music?
The Hollywood Bowl is the best place to see music in the world FULL STOP. A great sound system, history, location. Everything. One day we will be on that stage!
How did you and your band come together?
I was playing with an electronic lineup and I got fed up with the backing track thing, so when I bumped into Ryan and George who run a studio (Pure Rock in Whittier) it was a match made in heaven. They brought the ROCK back out of me. Chris has been playing with me on and off for years, so he was a natural to come and augment the lineup!
How did you get started in music?
My Grandmother was a music teacher and my mother was an opera singer, so they had me singing and playing the piano before I could talk. Rock music was a new thing to me when I left school after years of classical training. I just adore the lifestyle, touring and meeting new people, making people happy with the music. At least that is the plan!
http://hdyd.keds.com/2011/03/meet-la-based-musician-julian-shah-tayler/
Musical Fruitcake posted Electricity!
12.20.2010
09 – Julian Shah-Tayler – Electricity
Categories: MF2010, MF2010 - Dave's Tracks
I laugh when I think of Julian as a local artist, since he’s originally from England, however his music is fresh and exciting with a rock edge that keeps things real. The love child of David Bowie and Peter Murphy, Julian is the local artist that should already be famous. I actually had a hard time figuring out which song I should pick from this eclectic collection, he’s that good.
http://musicalfruitcake.com/2010/12/20/09-julian-shah-taylor-electricity/
09 – Julian Shah-Tayler – Electricity
Categories: MF2010, MF2010 - Dave's Tracks
I laugh when I think of Julian as a local artist, since he’s originally from England, however his music is fresh and exciting with a rock edge that keeps things real. The love child of David Bowie and Peter Murphy, Julian is the local artist that should already be famous. I actually had a hard time figuring out which song I should pick from this eclectic collection, he’s that good.
http://musicalfruitcake.com/2010/12/20/09-julian-shah-taylor-electricity/
the room in Santa Monica
I just met with xavi and a couple of his friends down at the room on Santa Monica and 14th. great bar with very low lighting and a fabulous dj. there had been a wrap party for some English film there so my first drink was free. that was a bonus!
I recommend it, although parking in valet ($6) is a waste of time as I very easily found street parking.
finished mixing Lucia today.
working on "naive love" which is still not lyrically done, but is taking shape very nicely, I guess.
pleased to see that "aubade" is gradually taking over all my other YouTube videos in popularity coming up to 1,300 views with very little promotions.... good news.... bed now sleep...
I recommend it, although parking in valet ($6) is a waste of time as I very easily found street parking.
finished mixing Lucia today.
working on "naive love" which is still not lyrically done, but is taking shape very nicely, I guess.
pleased to see that "aubade" is gradually taking over all my other YouTube videos in popularity coming up to 1,300 views with very little promotions.... good news.... bed now sleep...
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
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.
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
<[[[iframe]]] scrolling="no" height="61" frameborder="0" width="50" src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/button.js?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eatsleepbreathemusic.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F07%2Fprovacateur-julian-shah-tayler-pens-sexy-hit%2F&source=esbmusic&style=normal&service=ow.ly&hashtags=JC+Chasez,Joaquin+Phoenix,Julian+Shah-Tayler,Whitey">..
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
Current mood: jedi
Category: Music
Provacateur Julian Shah-Tayler pens sexy hit
July 21, 2010
By Sheena
<[[[iframe]]] scrolling="no" height="61" frameborder="0" width="50" src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/button.js?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eatsleepbreathemusic.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F07%2Fprovacateur-julian-shah-tayler-pens-sexy-hit%2F&source=esbmusic&style=normal&service=ow.ly&hashtags=JC+Chasez,Joaquin+Phoenix,Julian+Shah-Tayler,Whitey">..
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
——————————————————————————————
Julian Shah-Tayler – Everything Is You
——————————————————————————————
Julian Shah-Tayler – Wetter
——————————————————————————————
Julian Shah-Tayler – In Your Room (Depeche Mode cover)
——————————————————————————————
Impossible Things Records
MySpace
BUY
Read more: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll#ixzz0upLkbTt5
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
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
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
————————————————————-
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 [?]
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
————————————————————-
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
Myspace
Facebook
Twitter
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
Myspace
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.
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
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!
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
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
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
Bookmark and Share
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
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
Bookmark and Share
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
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."
"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.
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.
Monday, February 15, 2010
link to my Leonard Cover:
http://covermesongs.blogspot.com/2010/02/cover-news-february-13-2010.html
Thanks to Cover Me blogspot! x x
Thanks to Cover Me blogspot! x x
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!
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.
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
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
I hope you can make it! x x
Monday, February 1, 2010
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
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
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
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
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
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