Diamonds Are Marina's Best Friend

By Joshua Tindall

‘They call me homewrecker, homewrecker, I broke a million hearts just for fun’. These are the words announcing Marina Lambrini Diamandis’ return to the music scene. That’s right folks Marina & The Diamonds are back after a brief hiatus and gearing up for the release of sophomore effort ‘Electra Heart’ next month and it’s safe to say the hotly anticipated follow up will be nothing less than amazing.

New image. New Attitude. Marina & The Diamonds signature sound is naturally present…only this time its better. Gone is the innocent image once portrayed and in its place is a slightly darker, more intriguing indie approach. Promo track ‘Homewrecker’ is packed to the brim with character boasting an infectious chorus, fierce bass and unforgettable lyrics.


Judging by recent album snippets, it won’t be the last. Sampling sure fire club hits both well produced and well written. The album’s lead single ‘Primadonna’ contrasts striking and thumping verses against a light and angelic chorus. Serving up a captivating electro-pop number filled with a soulful touch and a cheeky video to match.

As an artist Marina is unique and ultimately fearless with an upcoming sophomore album of vivid, powerful and ruthless proportions. A Summer record not to be missed.

Marina & The Diamond's sophomore album ‘Electra Heart’ is scheduled to drop April 30, hoping to emulate on the success of her first album ‘The Family Jewels’ which peaked at number 5 on the UK Album Chart back in 2010. The first single from the project ‘Primadonna’ is out April 16.

Take a look at Marina & The Diamonds in action in the video for ‘Primadonna’ below.

The Voice UK Episode 1

Last night saw the arrival of Simon Cowell's worst nightmare hit this side of the pond...The Voice UK aired its first episode over on network rival BBC1.

The format is simple. All four vocal coaches turn away as the hopeful act takes to the stage. If they like what they hear they press their buzzer and the act is through and joins said vocal coaches' team. If more than one hit their buzzer they then have to pitch to the act to choose them. Something the Voice UK coaches reveled in.


Jessie J, Tom Jones, Will I Am and Danny O'Donoghue were a delight. The playful competitiveness between all four made for great viewing. Tom Jones was hilarious with his Elvis anecdote whilst Will I Am's MJ comment/impersonation blew me away. Jessie J is Jessie J. No more needs said. Oh and Danny told everyone he would 'Fight til the death' for them. But he looks pretty, sounds fantastic with his Irish brogue, whit and charisma so I'm going to let that one slide.


Then there were of course the contestants themselves. Or the Voices as they should be referred to. All sounding incredibly talented with voices perfect for studio release. In the words of Louis Walsh 'We are looking for a recording artist...and you are a recording artist'. LOL awww Louis Walsh folks. Gotta love him.

One reviewer of the Radio Times however has criticised the show for its apparent over-emphasis on the contestant's back stories complaining about the issues of 'bullying, alopecia, flabbiness and flamboyant natures' being the main focus rather than their talent.

This is exactly what the Voice is all about! It takes the people who X-Factor and the rest of society would normally shun and focuses on their talent. What has happened to get them on the stage in front of Jessie and Co. is equally important. Its why they are standing there on the day and why they give it their all for their first and possibly final performance in front of the would-be coaches.

"The Voice was a parade of the quite-good and the not-great-actually, with no variation: just wave after heaving wave of mediocrity with emotional baggage." Clearly the sound of Simon Cowell's cheque being cashed drowned out J Marie Cooper's rendition of 'Mamma Knows Best', Max Milner's perfect 'Lose Yourself/Come Together' mash-up or local Derry boy Ben Kelly's piano assisted version of 'Rocket Man'. I mean what more do you want!

The Voice UK airs Saturday 7pm BBC1. Episode 1 is available on catch-up via BBC iplayer. The First episode averaged with 8.46 m viewers peaking at 9.6m at 7.45pm.

Check out The Voice UK's J Marie Cooper performing the Jessie J track 'Mamma Knows Best' in the clip below.

Tulisa Premieres Debut Solo Visual

In the aftermath of her sextape scandal, X-Factor and N-Dubz star Tulisa Contostavlos has unveiled the music video for her debut solo single. The Fazer produced cut 'Young' and it couldn't have come at a better time as the singer offers up a somewhat apologetic clip for her shady/slutty past. "I'm sorry for the things that I've done...coz I'm young." Simple yet effective and straight to the point Tulz.

Things I want as a result of this video? More Louis Vuitton luggage in my life, a pillow fight, an excuse to shout 'I'm the female boss' at any given opportunity and of course a baby goat.

Things I do not want? Extremely cheap and tacky silver metallic dresses made from left over baking foil. Newspaper printed cropped denim jackets and anything Barry M related. Come on Tulisa...you may be young...but you're not broke.


Tulisa has even taken a leaf from Rihanna's notebook with a repetitive, word lacking, up-beat chorus sure to stick heavy in the minds of the impressionable. Serving up a decent effort for her first try away from the comfort of Dappy and Fazer as a result.

Tulisa's debut solo album is scheduled for release May 7. The video for her new single 'Young' was shot in Miami on March 2. Take a look at the visual below and see if you can spot Chip Diddy Chip (aka Chipmunk) who makes a guest appearance.

Stooshe Cover Ed Sheeran

Phenomenal new UK girl-group Stooshe have covered Ed Sheeran's hit track Lego House in an acoustic setting for all to enjoy.

The talented trio known also as Courtney, Alexandra and Karis stopped by MSN Live to belt out Ed's chart topper proving they are one hell of a group and certainly not one to be billed as a one hit wonder. Sensational harmonies, a blend of soft, soulful melodic ranges to boot and some Versace for H&M leggings thrown in for good measure. These girls have got style, charisma, energy and the voices to back it up.

Stooshe's new single 'Love Me' featuring Travie McCoy is currently sitting comfortably at number 5 on the UK top 40.

Take a look at Stooshe covering Ed Sheeran's 'Lego House' for MSN live in the clip below.

Lana Del Rey Premieres 'Blue Jeans' Visual

Overnight sensation Lana Del Rey has debuted new music video 'Blue Jeans', the third single to come from her global number 1 album 'Born To Die'. And by release we mean it was leaked.

I had hoped for an 'Off To the Races' release from the New York singer but having watched the magical cinematography at work throughout 'Blue Jeans' all can be forgiven for now. The clip sees Lana relaxing casually in an enamel body-conned swimsuit looking like the very essence of a Vogue cover-girl circa 1920s.

The Videogames songstress even gets a little action in the pool with a tattooed Lothario in the form of Bradley Soileau (her love interest in Born To Die) as an added bonus. Oh and its shot in black and white. Nothing says I like a bit in the pool like a good noir scene.

Lana Del Rey's new music video 'Blue Jeans' was directed by Born To Die's Yoann Lemoine. 'Blue Jeans' is set to drop April 8.

Take a look at the steamy visual for Lana Del Rey's 'Blue Jeans' below.

Melody Thornton Sings National Anthem

'Great Job'. Truthful words echoing throughout the crowd at the L.A Marathon as Melody Thornton hit the streets to belt out National Anthem, 'The Star Spangled Banner'.

Fresh off the bat of her brand new mixtape having been released mere days ago, Melody wowed the crowd with her stunning vocals showing growth and control with her raw and powerhouse vocality. Something previously a hit or miss in regards to her Pussycat Days.

Now with a sensational critically acclaimed mixtape and accompanying video under her belt, the former Pussycat Doll lets the world know she plans on sticking around with this performance. She also seems to be channeling the First Lady in the fashion department and I love it.


Melody Thornton's mixtape 'Piss On Your Black List' (P.O.Y.B.L for short) is available to download for free via her official website www.melodythornton.com. Melody Thornton is set to perform on Thatgrapejuice.net's the Splash in the coming weeks.

Take a look at Melody Thornton shine with her exquisite rendition of 'The Star Spangled Banner' in the clip below.

Kimberly Wyatt's Retro Revolution Shoot

With Series Three of hit Sky One TV show Got To Dance out of the way, Kimberly Wyatt isn't planning on slowing down anytime soon on her goal to dominate in all things dance orientated.

Fresh from performing not once but twice on the show itself, the former Pussycat Doll recently took to the stage alongside X-Factor winner Shayne Ward and the cast of Rock of Ages in the critically acclaimed West End musical. A place Kimbo will be getting familiar with in the coming months set to star in the upcoming stage production Revolution.


Labelled as 'London's Exciting New Multi-Media Dance Spectacular', Revolution is Kimberley's first major West End breakthrough. Posting on her blog Kimberly commented "3 years of dedicated hard work and I'm finally at a point that instead of building and creating I get to be creative and focus on me as an Entertainer again!! I love doing business but I must say....there is nothing like being on stage!"

The Candy singer has also unveiled a stunning disco inspired photoshoot complete with jumpsuits and bouffant hair by the bucket loads. Psychedelic springs to mind.


Revolution will be held at the Theatre Royal Haymarket and is set to run throughout May and June on selected dates. More information is available at www.dinc-revolution.com.

For an idea of what the former Doll will be cooking up, take a look at Kimberly Wyatt in action at London Olympia's Move It via the clip below.

P.S she is sporting an amazing tribal inspired body-con sports bra by H&M's upcoming Fashion Against Aids collection.

Mixtape Review: Melody Thornton 'P.O.Y.B.L'

"Happy to be here. Been down for too long and I'm so happy to sing you this song." Soulful lyrics put forward by former Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton in the Intro to her newly debuted mixtape 'P.O.Y.B.L'. Echoed by 'The best is yet to come'. And she's not wrong.

The retro Cee-Lo Green inspired 'Sweet Vendetta' kicks things off as the 10 track project's only up-tempo track before moving into Melody's haunting take on Jay Z and Kanye's track 'No Church In The Wild' for 'Lipstick & Guilt'.

Enter the Kill Billesque 'Smoking Gun' heading straight into guitar driven country ballad 'Loving You Better'. Showcasing a softer, more melodic sound to the Don't Cha singer's vocal catalog. A ballad worthy of Beyonce herself. Neatly followed by tongue-in-cheek tell-tale narrative 'Crazy Mixed Girl.'

Paving the way for old-school Jazz affair 'The One That Got Away' packed full to the brim with soul and all things vintage fun. Followed up by the sensational 'Bulletproof' featuring Bobby Newberry. Vocals blend perfectly on the pair's mellowed, acoustic rendition. Their take on the smash hit electro-pop track by La Roux. Its actually a little tear inducing if I'm being totally honest.

'Someone To Believe' is the mixtape's haunting operatic epic. Leading to the closing number. The phenomenal 'Hit The Ground Runnin'. Empowering and emotional to say the least. Fingers crossed for a single release on this one guys.

"Your success is not determined by my demise. I'm here to take what was rightfully mine." Yep. Lead vocals bitches! Melody Thornton has arrived!

P.O.Y.B.L is authentic. Real. Emotional and a consistent listen from start to finish with effort, hard work and determination sounding out from every single lyric. Then there's the voice. No more needs said.

Standout tracks: Sweet Vendetta. Lipstick & Guilt. Bulletproof and Hit The Ground Runnin'. Melody Thornton is set to perform on Thatgrapejuice's sister show Splash on Thatgrapejuicetv. Melody's mixtape 'P.O.Y.B.L' is available for free download via www.melodythornton.com

Alexandra Burke Shines On This Morning

Four years after her X-Factor success, several number ones, a string of top ten hits and a number one multi-platinum debut album. Alexandra Burke has returned in anticipation of her upcoming sophomore project. So naturally the Bad Boys singer has rocked This Morning.

As usual, the Elephant singer's personality shines through. The vocals were pretty much a breeze for the powerhouse vocalist. Whilst the choreography was equally on point dancing up a storm with four denim-clad dancers.

I'm also feeling her slightly more urbanised look. Of course it could just be the enormous ponytail. Instant amazeballs. Imagine if it was plated. Pleated and beaded. Imagine it.

Miss Burke also stops by the stool for a chat with hosts Philip Scofield and Holly Willaby. Discussing her year and a half hiatus, executive producing her upcoming sophomore project, growing up and finding herself and on moving her musical direction forward.

Boasting a dance/trance lead single in the form of the Eric Morillo assisted track 'Elephant, Alexandra's follow-up effort currently has no name. No release date. But its OK...it does apparently contain a 90's era and soul inspired theme throughout. With new single 'Elephant' based on a relationship ending sometime last year. Its all we really need to know then right?

Alexandra also discusses her move from Simon Cowell's Syco record label to RCA stating, "Simon will always call if I need him. He's always still there. I respect and appreciate that about him."

The name of Alexandra's forthcoming second studio release will be unveiled sometime this week. Alexandra Burke's new single 'Elephant' featuring Eric Morillo is out now and is set for a high charting debut position.

Take a look at Alex cooking up a storm on This Morning via the clip below. What do you think of Miss Burke's new look/sound?

Kanye West Creates Female Fall Collection

Not content with five platinum selling solo albums, 18 Grammy awards and an entire album collaboration with Jay Z himself, American Rapper Kanye West has gone a debuted an Autumn/Winter collection at Paris Fashion Week. A collection for women nonetheless.

The collection, which debuted last week, is entitled DW Kanye West and is the second to be launched at Paris Fashion Week following a critically controversial premiere back in October 2011. This time around however, anticipation for the line was on a high and Kanye seemed to have taken the criticism on board.


More importantly, the front row was packed full of celebs including the likes of P-Diddy and Anna Wintour...wonder what that awkward conversation started out like? 'You should really stick to one name...it's just confusing and unnecessary." Agreed Anna. Kim Kardashian and Ricardo Tisci were also front row attendees.

The collection was displayed on a dry ice catwalk with models Jordann Dunn, Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls and Abbey Lee Kershaw strutting their stuff on the catwalk in Kanye’s gothic chic 20-look runway. Looks which boasted form fitting silhouettes in leather and fur in what the Huffington Post described as staying 'true to his ultra sexy, luxe aesthetic.'


Even Taylor Swift has donned a piece of the collection for Harper Bazaar's April cover issue. You know you've made the right choice when Taylor Swift sports your shit on a truly successful style bible right?

Check out DW Kanye West at Paris Fashion Week below.

Melody Thornton Premieres Debut Solo Video

Following a week full of promo for her upcoming mixtape, Melody Thornton, formerly of the Pussycat Dolls, has debuted her first ever solo video away from the shadow of Nicole Scherzinger.

The visual in question is for Melody's new track 'Lipstick and Guilt' which premiered last week via Rap-Up.com and is dark, haunting and rather artistic in its overall creative theme. Melody also sports some sick fashion in the form of her gold knuckle dusters, a high-bun, a black flowing cape and an ivory clustered one-shoulder dress Gaga herself would kill to get her mother monster claws on.


I particularly like the fact that despite Melody having undergone severe dance training for the Doll Domination era of PCD (when she was shoved to the back of the group behind all things blonde and leg lifts) Melody showcases the very thing she was originally brought into the group to present in the first place. Her voice. No moves required.

The only let down is the video is a total of 1 minute and 41 seconds. Possibly due to the fact the track samples Jay Z and Kanye West's 'No Church In The Wild'. With Melody being an independent artist and subsequently funding her own music career copyright issues and fees of a rather large sum of money would more than likely be required to film a full version.

Nevertheless, perched high on a volcanic rock whilst equally volcanic ash floats around her, Melody kills it regardless of how long the clip is. Its simply to create buzz, generate excitement and be something marginally different than to be expected from a former Doll. Which it does. Thus, get excited folks. Melody Thornton has arrived.

Melody Thornton's ten track mixtape 'P.O.Y.B.L' will be available to download for free via Rap-Up.com March 15. 'Lipstick & Guilt' is available to download now.

Take a look at Melody Thornton's first solo video for 'Lipstick & Guilt' via the clip below.

Usher Premieres 'Climax' Video

Usher has unveiled the visual for his freshly Diplo produced RnB soul ballad, the haunting 'Climax'.

Usher's new Sam Pilling directed visual was shot in Atlanta and finds the Yeah singer deciding whether to reignite the flames of passion with a former lover. Various other scenarios are also shown as we are given a unique look inside the soul singer's mind. I can think of somewhere else I'd like to look inside. Sorry. Its the power of Usher.

The track serves as the lead single from Usher's upcoming currently untitled seventh studio project and was released February 22. Originally premiering on Valentine's day, 'Climax' peaked at number 18 on the US Billboard charts.

Take a look at Usher climaxing over and over again in his new video below ;)

Melody Thornton Teases More Mixtape Promo

Melody Thornton fans the world over are probably hitting the roof with Melody excitement right now. Last week the former Pussycat Doll debuted her first track to drop from her upcoming mixtape and now the powerhouse vocalist has unveiled further details.

First. The name. Originally previewed as 'P.O.Y.B.L', Melody has revealed the acronym stands for 'Piss On Your Black List'. Haha. The Don't Cha singer also posted the amount of tracks contained within the mixtape. Ten to be exact and of course the accompanying names.

Melody's promo single 'Sweet Vendetta'. The MT penned 'Hit The Ground Runnin' and a duet alongside Bobby Newberry entitled 'Bulletproof' to name a few of the upcoming mixtapes features. 'Lipstick & Guilt' is also set to receive further promo in the form of a uniquely shot video.


Rap-Up.com reported on the video's concept with the clip's directors commenting "“We were influenced by the dark undertones of the track and Melody’s powerhouse vocals...We worked with our effects team Nick Young and Zack Young to create a world that matched the mood and beauty but wasn’t your typical video imagery. The great thing about working with Melody is that she thinks out of the box and wants to push the envelope visually, which makes for a great collaboration.”

Melody's debut solo video for new track 'Lipstick & Guilt' was directed by Dano Cerny and Marielle Tepper of Hyperballad. The dark and mysterious visual is set to drop March 11. Melody Thornton's mixtape 'P.O.Y.L.B' will be released via free download on March 15.

Labrinth Previews 'Electronic Earth' Album Sampler

Its been two years in the making, but Labrinth's debut album 'Electronic Earth' is upon us. Featuring hits such as 'Let The Sun Shine' and the Tinie Tempah assisted 'Earthquake', Lab has kindly unveiled a 12 minute sampler for all to enjoy.

A mixture between Taio Cruz, Bruno Mars and Usher, the sampler previews the ten track project in a fluid manner jumping effortlessly from one clip to the next. Standouts include electronic ballad 'Treatment', Motown infused 'Express Yourself' and the Emeli Sande feature 'Beaneath Your Beautiful'. Reggae dubstep influenced 'Sundown' is also a personal favourite even sampling Counting Crows for an added pop cultural spin.

Electronic Earth so far sounds cohesive, experimental and overall excitingly fresh take on Labrinth's musical interests. Its a definite must-have for 2012.

Labrinth's debut album 'Electronic Earth' is released April 2 and is available for pre-order on Itunes now. The third single from the project, 'Last Time' drops March 18.

Take a listen to Labrinth's phenomenal 'Electronic Earth' sampler below.

Melody Thornton Premieres 'Lipstick & Guilt'

A mere two days after unveiling artwork for what has now been revealed as her first mixtape, former Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton has debuted the haunting soulful offering 'Lipstick & Guilt'. Which also samples Jay Z and Kanye West's 'No Church In The Wild'.

Melody commented in an interview with Rap-Up, "I’ve spent the past two years just writing, relaxing, and discovering my musical self without limitations. My amazing fans and supporters have been patiently waiting to hear the REAL Melody Thornton and this is my thank you. I’ve written so many songs and P.O.Y.B.L is the first project of many. I can only hope people love it as much as I do.”

Words cannot describe how excited I am for Melody's mixtape. Seriously, this girl needs to be BIG already!

Melody is set to premiere new music and videos for her army of MT fans every Monday and Thursday of this month. Her mixtape entitled 'P.O.Y.B.L' is set to drop March 15 and will be made available as a free download via rap-up.com.

Take a listen to Melody's stunning powerhouse vocals on her new track 'Lipstick and Guilt' in the clip below. Chills.

NEW MUSIC ALERT: Calvin Harris Ft Ne-Yo

We Found Love part two anyone? Because I think I've just found it in the form of the Calvin Harris produced cut 'Let's Go' featuring RnB crooner Neyo.

Naturally having a top producer and one of the best singer/songwriter's around means the collaborating track is a winner from start to finish. Ne-Yo having dabbled in the more electro side of RnB/Soul spectrum of late is in his element following 2011's dance heavy anthem 'Beautiful Monster'. Whilst Calvin Harris produces another quality euphoria infused backdrop.

'Let's Go' will serve as the lead single from Calvin Harris' as yet untitled third studio project set to drop later this year. Ne-Yo also features on Jennifer Hudson's new single 'Think Like a Man'. In other Calvin Harris related news, the DJ has recently been announced as working on Cheryl Cole's soon-to-be comeback track. Calvin Harris...helping people who can't sing, one song at a time.

Take a listen to the infectious Ne-Yo assisted 'Let's Go' below.

Melody Thornton Previews New Single

Finally! Some Melody Thornton news! And what great news it is. The former Pussycat Doll has debuted the artwork for her upcoming new single.

Entitled P.O.Y.B.L (not quite sure what it means...perhaps Put On Your Boots Love?...just a guess.), the pic shows an artistically shot MT from the side. Hair bound together at the back in a 5os manner. Complete with her newly blonde streak and a pair of pearl earrings.

Melody has also been in the studio recording recently adding fuel to the fire that is me literally unable to wait to hear her tracks.

Melody Thornton released her first solo single 'Sweet Vendetta' back in 2011 premiering a vintage Motown inspired sound. New track P.O.Y.B.L is set to drop March 15.

New Pussycat Dolls Strip for Sexy Shoot

The new Pussycat Doll line-up has previewed a behind the scenes look at an upcoming photo-shoot for a new track entitled 'Ready 4 Peace'.

Ready for bed by the looks of it. Put your clothes back on girls! PCDs Lauren, Paula, Chrystina, Erica and Vanessa get down and dirty for the shoot grinding up against ropes, covering their breasticles, pulling down white t-shirts and pulling on leather jackets. All carried out whilst creator/bint Robin Antin paints the words 'Ready 4 peace', 'PCD' and 'Doll' onto their limbs. Talk about low budget.


The clip also features a tiny snippet of new track 'Ready 4 Peace' which appears to have a rock/pop vibe which should hopefully be backed up by some pretty good vocals from both Lauren and Chrystina. The Dolls recently tweeted pics and comments, having been in the studio recording with Dark Child and Semi-Precious Weapons. The Dolls also appeared at Eva Longoria's party.


Overall verdict? 'Sassy but always Classy' seems to have gone out the window, rolled down the red light district and taken all the new Pussycat Dolls' clothes with them.

Stay tuned for more info on the new Pussycat Dolls line-up and on whether or not they are actually going to be any good. Take a look at the Pussycat Dolls behind the scenes on their new shoot for new song 'Ready 4 Peace' below. And as an added bonus check them out completely SLAYING the memory of the original PCDs in a recent performance.

Alexandra Burke Covers 'Flavour'

Alexandra Burke's new single release is just around the river-bend and the X-Factor star isn't taking any chances where success is concerned covering this month's issue of Flavour.

The Broken Heels singer talks being single, her love of Usher (I hear ya), her personal opinion on the UK's music industry and on the show that made her what she is today. She also dishes the dirt on sexing up her album, image and on writing her own material. Alex also sports some pretty futuristic fashion in the form of diamond clustered heels and a wicker plastic effect cropped jacket.


The interview was conducted by Flavour's guest editor Ashley Walters. The cover and shoot was shot by photographer Daniel Thomas. Alexandra Burke's infectious new dance up-beat single 'Elephant' featuring DJ Eric Morillo is released March 11.


Take a look behind the scenes of Alexandra Burke's Flavour shoot in the clip below.

Katy Perry Covers Interview Magazine

Did I say Katy Perry? Sorry I meant Megan Fox. Oh wait no sorry once again. IT IS Katy Perry...only extremely airbrushed looking identical to Megan Fox on this month's cover issue of Interview.

Perry's nose does not look like her own nose. Its freaky how perfectly angular her face seems to have become for this shoot. Most news-sites have run stories on the cover with Katy channeling the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Amy Winehouse...only hot on both accounts.

The sexy shoot was photographed by Mikael Jansson and sees Perry don a jeweled encrusted bust. Bet Russell is kicking himself now.