Lana Del Rey - Honeymoon | Album Review

A term that gets used by naysayers when describing Lana Del Rey’s music is that it is borderline depressing. Granted, to those who aren’t familiar with her work, titles like Summertime Sadness and Born To Die might imply Del Rey’s music is just her moping about how much she loathes her life. Which is not the case, and if her latest album Honeymoon is anything to go by, Lana Del Rey is far from dull. In fact, it proves that she is an exciting enigmatic character, just trying to be understood.

After a gorgeous 30 second orchestral instrumental “We both know that it’s not fashionable to love me”, are the first words declared by Del Rey on the opener – the album titled song Honeymoon. At this point we are unsure as to whom Del Rey is addressing; perhaps it’s cynical reviewers about her music? Or maybe it’s towards a reluctant lover? The one thing that is immediate to listeners, however, is the mysterious quality Del Rey’s music has become admired for – that dark persona is present in this album. But unlike her 2014 release Ultraviolence, Del Rey no longer sounds easily susceptible and vulnerable. Instead throughout Honeymoon’s luxurious and intoxicating 13 tracks, whether addressing subjects of loss, pain or elation Del Rey appears chillingly nonchalant. 

The love and influence for jazz and blues music that Del Rey has dabbled with before can be heard more clearly and confidently than ever. In the dreamy and heartfelt ballad, Terrance Loves You Del Rey croons about the loss of a partner behind a soothing saxophone and an accompanying trumpet – this is Del Rey in her element.

At this point, three albums in, fans and critics alike know it is imperative for a Del Rey record to feature a distinct tone of sensuality, and Honeymoon does not disappoint. Now Del Rey’s sensual side is understatedly unravelled on songs like the slow jam Freak and the sultry Art Deco. On Music To Watch Boys To the ethereal production unites with Del Rey’s angelic voice creating the sort of song you could picture Charlie's Angel Farrah Fawcett dancing to if she was a belly dancer in a former life??
When comparing Honeymoon to her previous records (Born To Die, Paradise and Ultraviolence), Del Rey has stated herself “It's very different from the last one and similar to the first two”. Perhaps the most obvious reason behind this is because Honeymoon marks the return of producer Rick Nowels who co-produced all of Born To Die and all of Honeymoon too. However, Del Rey’s sincere voice and personal lyrics are at the cornerstone of the album now, contrasting with Born To Die, which was criticised for the production overshadowing her.

But Del Rey refuses to be overshadowed by anything this time around; she’s the main magnetism. Even closing with a cover of jazz icon; Nina Simone’s Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood doesn’t seem to faze her, as she breathes life into the song creating a refreshing and distinctive duplicate. Concluding into what sounds like Del Rey’s purest and most authentic album to date.

Rating: 8/10

Recommended songs: Honeymoon, God Knows I Tried, High By The Beach, Freak, Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood, 24

Reading Festival 2015 Preview

ANNOUCEMENT(as if you haven’t been counting down already): There are officially less than 100 days to go until the first day of music at Reading Festival – only 99 days left! So to help you get even more excited about one of the UK’s most consistently celebrated festivals, here at FourPlay we have been kind enough to devise a list of a few of the must see bands and artists you won’t want to miss over the weekend.


Metallica (Saturday @ Main Stage- Headliners)
Undoubtedly the most seasoned of the three headliners throughout the weekend, with a career spanning over three decades, Metallica need no introduction. After their show stopping headliner show at Glastonbury last year, Metallica fans and non-fans (that will be made fans after watching the rock legends on stage) should expect the same energy as always from the band during their record fourth time as a headliner for Reading. 


The Libertines (Sunday @ Main Stage - Headliners)
Sunday’s headliners come from reformed indie rockers The Libertines.  Carl Barat – co-frontman alongside Pete Dorothy said of his band's headline slot: "Reading has always been a special festival to me; it's where I misspent a lot of my youth.” The charismatic friendship between Barat and Dorothy is obvious to anyone who watches them on stage together – and with talks of new music on the way, you’re not going to want to miss this set!


Kendrick Lamar (Sunday @ Main Stage)
From mentor and rap mogul Dr. Dre, to pop princess and recent collaborator Taylor Swift, to legendary rocker Flea (bassist from Red Hot Chili Peppers) – everyone loves Kendrick Lamar. That’s because he’s really good, brilliant in fact. His new critically acclaimed album To Pimp A Butterfly topped the charts all over the world and is a poetic and punchy rap album which will be sure to sound amazing live.


Alt- J (Friday @ Main Stage)
Brit and Grammy award nominees Alt- J are set to have one of the most eccentric sets of the weekend, with two brilliant alternative rock and electronic albums under their belt. The band have recently spent a lot of time over in America touring their This Is All Yours album, so their Reading set will be an enormous welcome home party.


Bastille (Friday @ Main Stage)
With a great number one album in the bag, Dan Smith and his London based band- Bastille have already established a great following and a enough catchy songs to ensure that you’ll be singing with the guys whether it’s chucking it down or sunny! Let us pray that it’s sunny though. Seriously – pray it doesn’t rain. 


Circa Waves (Saturday @ NME/ BBC Radio 1 Stage)
Their debut album Young Chasers is a shining feel-good indie summer record that we love so much that Circa Waves get the prestigious title of FourPlay’s MUST SEE ACT of the weekend.  We’re going to let the music do the talking with this one; listen to the Liverpudlian lads’ latest single ‘Stuck in My Teeth’ and you’ll understand just why you need to check them out.

Charli XCX (Saturday @ BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage)
Love pop music and aren’t really into anything else? Well usually the response to that would be that Reading is not the festival for you – go to V Fest instead. HOWEVER fear not, Charli XCX who will be performing songs off her latest album ‘Sucker’ will bring the fun factor in what will be a predominantly pop/dance infusion set.


Jamie xx (Sunday @ NME/ BBC Radio 1 Stage)
Jamie xx somehow manages to make the most beautifully moody, captivating music, from his work in The xx to his solo work as a DJ, teaming up with names such as Adele and Drake. With his highly anticipated debut album In Colour set to be released next month, Jamie’s set should be one of the most distinctive acts of the weekend. 


Azealia Banks (Saturday @ BBC Radio 1xtra Stage)
Potty mouth New Yorker Azealia Banks is sure to be a set, you won’t want to miss. Whenever the 24-year old performs her party anthem ‘212’ the crowd goes mental! Watch what happened when Azealia performed the song at Reading in 2013.

While She Sleeps (Sunday @ The Pit)
This metal band have been formed for nearly a decade but got their breakthrough with the 2010 release of their EP The North Stands for Nothing that was met with positive reviews. Two albums and hundreds of gigs later, While She Sleeps have gained a strong following. Even our Rock and Heavy Metal enthusiast Tom has said the band are ‘slowly deserving a place amongst the greats of the genre’. Any metalhead should definitely watch their set.


Django Django (Friday @ Festival Republic Stage)
Django Django have kept low for three years after the success of their self-titled debut album. Now back with a brand new album –trippy dance and psychedelic vibes are something you can expect from the set of the London based band.  


Frank Turner (Sunday @ Festival Republic Stage)
Looking for a more folk and alternative sound?  Then Mr. Turner is your guy. After scoring a top 2 album with the mighty Tape Deck Heart, headline shows at Wembley Arena and a plethora of hits; Frank Turner definitely knows and has what it takes to captivate a massive audience like Reading.

Bullet For My Valentine - No Way Out | Song Review

Welsh metal titans Bullet For My Valentine have returned after a two year break with an absolute belter of a track. No Way Out is taken from Bullet's upcoming album Venom, which will be released on August 14th.

No Way Out kicks off with an instant impact, as singer Matt Tuck roars "No Way Out" to which the rest of the band accompany with pure angst. Immediately the track contains older and more brutal elements from Bullet, reminiscent of defining album The Poison.

With the implementation of new bassist Jamie Mathias, it has created an even deeper sound in Bullet's music.

Also, in true Bullet fashion, the chorus is strong and the melodies and subtle harmonies add prominent layers to the song. There are influences of Avenged Sevenfold throughout which further portrays the feistiness and edginess of the song.

Despite the brutality throughout, it is clear that No Way Out will receive a large amount of radio play and the mainstream will take it under its wing.

The older fans will see the appeal of No Way Out, and newer fans will follow suit and jump on the Bullet bandwagon. It is evident that the song has been well thought out and Bullet are truly back with an album that will regain them their spot at the top of the British metal roster.

Also catch Bullet For My Valentine on their UK and Ireland tour during September and October. Tickets go on sale Friday 22rd May.

Listen to No Way Out here:

Rag'N'Bone Man - Disfigured | EP Review

There is always a sense of pride felt when you see an underground artist getting the recognition they deserve. After discovering Rag'N'Bone Man when he was providing vocals for Brighton based rap collective Rum Committee, it was evident that his soulful voice had to receive full exposure.

Disfigured is a landmark in Rag'N'Bone Man's career. Even with a stellar back catalogue, including his Wolves EP, he has managed to top it all and raise the bar with just four songs.

Each track encapsulates an array of emotions, portrayed brilliantly by Rag'N'Bone. His voice is undeniably full of power and passion, with an essence of the finest Blues artists dripping through it. The music arrangements work majestically, as clearly heard in the emotive Perfume, which is stripped-down, yet extremely compelling.

Lead track Hard Came The Rain is more forceful and rock-driven, however the lyrical content and the barrage of instruments creates a true musical spectacle. 

Bitter End has a slight hip-hop feel contained within the instruments, but Rag'N'Bone's melody and the backing choir provide a further depth to a simplistic layout. The live version of Bitter End which can be found on his YouTube page is magical and demonstrates Rag'N'Bone's raw ability.

To close the EP, title track Disfigured shows the pinnacle of a truly incredible talent. Rag'N'Bone's voice is one that will show the takeover of up-and-coming acts. The chorus of Disfigured is haunting but it will certainly be stuck in your head. 

The versatility of one performer is phenomenal and this EP is a testament to just how talented Rag'N'Bone Man is and he will become a household name in due time.

FourPlay's Track Of The Week: Fort Hope - The Rapture

British rock music undoubtedly has an extensive pool of talent, but this year belongs to Fort Hope. The Hertfordshire act consisting of Jon Gaskin, Jamie Nicholls and Simon Rowlands are undeniably talented and The Rapture clearly demonstrates their musical abilities.

Combine Gaskin's unique but incredible vocal melodies and runs with powerful, slightly syncopated drumming and awe-inspiring guitar tones, then you have the perfect ingredients for a brilliant rock song.

The Rapture depicts Fort Hope's mammoth sound and their individuality which is a rare trait to have in rock music nowadays. Also their ability to get a chorus ingrained into your head is complimentary to their music.

Make sure you catch Fort Hope during festival season as they are appearing at a number of festivals over the UK this summer. I'll be there at 2000 Trees, witnessing an incredible act live.

Listen to The Rapture here:

Download Festival 2015 Preview

Festival season is swiftly approaching and nothing gets us more excited for summer. On June 12th, the legendary Download Festival opens its gates to tens of thousands of mental rock and metal fans for their annual routine, which consists of drinking and going insane whilst rocking out to their favourite bands.

Undoubtedly my favourite festival, Download never manages to disappoint. The line-up is always incredibly strong and this year proves to be no different. I will be taking you through what I consider to be the best acts to catch during the weekend and the one to avoid, to ensure you all have the best time.

Without further ado, here is FourPlay's Download Festival Preview.

Best Headliner - Muse

This year is by far one of the strongest line-ups, especially in terms of headliners. Download always have surprises for us when putting on a varied crop of bigger bands. Last year we had Avenged Sevenfold, the year before we had Rammstein, so Download really do know how to mix it up. Festival organiser Andy Copping has really pulled it out of the bag this year, with the inclusion of British rock giants Muse.

Having never headlined Download before, there is a huge buzz around Muse playing in June. Notorious for their phenomenal live sets, we are certain that Muse will not disappoint. It may not directly cater to the demographic, but those who doubt Muse will be shocked when they hear not only how great they are live, but they can also bring the heavy. Download will see just why Muse are deserved of that Saturday headlining slot.

Listen to Stockholm Syndrome here:

Best from Main Stage - Rise Against

This band are no strangers to the festival scene and Download once again welcomes them with open arms after a three year absence. American rockers Rise Against are taking to the main stage this year and their show promises to be a highlight. With massive songs in their arsenal such as Saviour, Prayer Of The Refugee and I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore, they will be the band to initiate sing-a-longs. Rise Against's set will be guaranteed fun and one that everyone will remember for a long time.

Listen to Prayer Of The Refugee here:

Best from Second Stage - Lamb of God

One of the heaviest and most respected in their field, Lamb of God are finally back at Download. This is an announcement which has got every metal fan on the edge of their seats in anticipation and excitement. Lamb of God are known to tear up the stage and get the crowd going nuts, especially at Download. Check out videos of their 2007 set at Donington and you will see exactly why this band get booked regularly. The perfect act to have at the tail-end of Sunday to add diversity to the Classic Rock day. I'll see you guys in the pit, best of luck.

Listen to Walk With Me In Hell here:

Upcoming act - Beartooth

The last couple of years have seen a huge resurgence in acts from the rock and metal scene. There are bands left, right and centre who are breaking boundaries and bringing heavier music the recognition it deserves. One of the most exciting acts from last year are Beartooth and they are bringing their erratic live shows to the UK. The tent/3rd stage is the ideal place for a band the size of Beartooth's to play. The atmosphere will be electric and it will kick-start your weekend in perfect style. They have brilliant songs which will make for an amazing set at Download.

Listen to In Between here:

Act to avoid - Black Veil Brides

There is always an act which you find yourself immediately wanting to dismiss. This year the unanimous decision leans towards Black Veil Brides. It was a bold choice to include them on this year's bill, and yes it may be to some people's taste, but the general consensus will be to watch Faith No More on the main stage instead.

FourPlay's Five Tracks | Metal Edition

Need something a little heavier to listen to in your life? Then look no further as we present you with our top five songs of the past few months from some of the most exciting acts in the metal world. Let the moshing commence!

5. The Ghost Inside - Out Of Control

Upcoming Californian hardcore act The Ghost Inside are truly out of control with this relentless track full of chugging guitars and a monstrous breakdown.

4. Blood Youth - Cold Sweat

British newcomers Blood Youth have released their debut track and it is certainly going to get them noticed. Cold Sweat is a song that is guaranteed to be stuck in your head all day and its sound is refreshing and exciting.

3. Of Mice and Men - Broken Generation

The last year has been incredible for Of Mice and Men. They've began to establish themselves as a huge name in metal and Broken Generation demonstrates their ability to maintain a heavy sound, yet also manage to get airtime on BBC Radio 1.

2. Slipknot - Sarcastrophe

Nu-Metal legends Slipknot released their fifth studio album back in October 2014 and Sarcastrophe is a definitive highlight. It's ruthless, the tempo changes are sporadic, yet perfectly timed and most importantly it contains the old Slipknot sound which got the band noticed in the first place.

1. Beartooth - Body Bag

One of my favourite upcoming metal acts of the past year is Beartooth. Body Bag is one hell of a song which showcases a band sounding angry and ready to take the world by storm. The main riff is simple, yet brilliant and the chorus is one that would sound amazing at a festival, hearing thousands singing it back.

FourPlay's Track of the Week: Letlive. - Muther

For this week's Track of the Week we present you with a hard-hitting song from 2010 from California's own Letlive.

The post hardcore act wrote Muther for their album Fake History, at a time where frontman Jason Butler was going through turbulent times. The song itself is about his mother and the unfortunate events she experienced with another man.

Muther is a powerful song that can evoke an array of emotions due to its lyrical content and quick change in pace, but most importantly it is an iconic anthem for Letlive. fans and one that will always be cemented as a fan favourite.