The BBC Sound of 2012 is out. Well, we found this year's selection a bit... puzzling. The list ranges from over-exposed Harlem rapper Azealia Banks to independent Brooklyn-band Friends. But are we left groping in the dark for star-power?
Is this the same list that gave us the likes of Jessie J, The Vaccines, and James Blake? Drawing from a wider array of musical knowledge than just POP, let's review the motley selection:
Is this the same list that gave us the likes of Jessie J, The Vaccines, and James Blake? Drawing from a wider array of musical knowledge than just POP, let's review the motley selection:
A$AP Rocky - Big talent, good future, but unfortunately not Top 5 material. Still, he'll make DMX proud. Verdict: No spanx (but keep rapping!)
Azealia Banks - She’s young & potty-mouthed. We’re over it. Azealia just topped the NME Cool List, so give someone else a chance. Verdict: Ick.
Dot Rotten - Talk about flow! He's good grime, but Wretch 32 & his compatriots don't get enough airwave-love. Verdict: super talented, keep rapping.
Dry The River - Pretty good for post-punk. No matter where they're placed on the list, they're working with Peter Katis (Interpol, The National), so they're in good hands. Verdict: Approved.
Flux Pavilion - Not dubstep’s best, but not its worst. Verdict: Mediocre meh.
Frank Ocean - Electro RnB with a voice attached. A solid producer, but his songs need a cube of sugary POP for some added FUN. Verdict: We're not sure we're ready for a swim yet.
Friends - These indie POP kids have made it far in a very short time! We appreciate bands that love their instruments. Verdict: Holler!
Jamie N Commons - Jamie could have written a badass soundtrack for True Grit, but we're not sure the radio can handle his rough-n-tough swagger. Still, for a raspy voice, he's got style. Verdict: Come swagger over to our house, mister.
Lianne La Havas - Her voice belies her age, but we're underwhelmed by her live performance. Still, the girl is touring with Bon Iver. Verdict: Werk. Practice makes perfect.
Michael Kiwanuka - Michael is a massive talent with a beautiful, soulful voice. With adequate support, he could make Jazz POP fusion at its best. Let's bring the blues back. Verdict: Support!! (Esp. when he's cute AND talented).
Niki & The Dove - Didn’t they make it on the list last year? No? Well, then it’s about time! Verdict: Finally!
Ren Harvieu - Is she 2012's Clare Maguire? We're unsure about her voice & musical direction. Verdict: In need of guidance.
Skrillex - The “brostep pioneer” and frat-party favorite already scored Grammy nods. Verdict: enough cocky jockies. We'll pass.
Spector - They're cute, POP-friendly & can craft a catchy tune. Rock! We're excited for the 2012 album. Verdict: Waiting with anticipation while doing our nails.
Stooshe - Woa. Very funny, raunchy ladies, but a bit too stooge-ish. Verdict: good for a girls' night in.
Unapologetically,
Gregory & Minna
