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

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 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.