I'm Intrigued after listening to this man

Hugo

Like many musicians who can do two things at once, Hugo’s mix of rock and R&B was oversold as revolutionary by press releases, but that mash-up is fairly common in the post-Jamiroquai world, and probably long before that. Still, that doesn’t mean Old Tyme Religion isn’t fresh in feel, as it is, thanks to the commitment of its singer/songwriter, who sounds like Citizen Cope if Citizen Cope aimed to be overtly sexy, or a jam band child who shares equal love for Jay-Z. Speaking of Jay-Z, Hugo’s good-timing, front-porch cover of “99 Problems” from the rapper -- and now Hugo’s label boss, as this is on Hova's Roc Nation -- is the main attraction here, and there are plenty of strong follow-ups. “Hopelessly Stoned” sounds very happy to be so, while “Rock 'n' Roll Delight” does just what it says on the tin and “Mekong River Delta” is the kind of polished, hippie-trippy singalong World Party or the Lightning Seeds used to nail, just with an American, Roc Nation spin. Even when clichés and iffy lyrics stuff some of the more lackluster cuts, Old Tyme Religion is a guilty pleasure that transitions into a real pleasure once you let the good vibes through.

“Old Tyme Religion” starts off with explosive percussive sounds, leading into a chorus with heavy guitar riffs and Hugo singing, “waiting on that old time religion.” Hugo’s cover of Jay-Z’s “99 Problems” retains the energy of the original, while adding some White Stripes-esque heaviness to it. The thumping bass drum, harmonica and acoustic instruments will have you nodding your head constantly.

“Bread & Butter” has a chorus that is absolutely infectious. The verses start off soft, with Hugo calmy singing over acoustic strumming, before being backed up by organs, heavy drums and cymbal hits in the chorus. “I’m sharp like a blade, and cold like a knife,” sings Hugo, the rough and tough lyrics fitting the song’s explosive sound.

“Hopelessly Stoned” is like a cross between The White Stripes and The Black Keys. Its garage rock sound is so grimy, but in a good way. The hand claps will sneak up on you, forcing you to tap your foot or clap your own hands. The psychedelic keyboard and organ in the chorus will send you on a path of surrealism as Hugo sings, “hopelessly stoned.”

“Born” shows Hugo’s admiration of The Beatles. You could totally picture Lennon and McCartney singing, “what in the world were you born to do,” over some fuzz bass and ringing tambourines. This one is definitely a highlight off of the album; its just a well-written song, and the guitar solo towards the end is an added bonus.

“Mekong River Delta” may be Hugo’s nostalgic nod to his past life. “And all that I could hoep to find, is a little piece of my own mind,” sings Hugo. The acoustic guitar and echoey string parts flow like that of a river, sometimes rising with the addition of cymbals and piano, before softening down again.

“Different Lives” seems to express Hugo’s present life growing as a musician. Melancholic but beautiful, ”Different Lives” shifts from the more upbeat tracks, to a more reflective, somber sound. “Wake Alone” follows with the somberness of “Different Lives,” as Hugo sings about a lost opportunity with someone. Although the theme is cliche, Hugo’s lyrics are deep and natural; you will be able to relate as he ponders upon finding someone better or equal to whoever the song is referring to.

Hugo has a lot going for him. Both him, and his cover of “99 Problems” were featured in the box-office hit No Strings Attached; he has performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live; and he is currently on tour with Augustana and The Maine. Along with Old Tyme Religion, Hugo’s future is looking bright. Old Tyme Religion is a great start for Hugo; it shows that he can create well-written, accessible songs, while remaining himself and taking ideas from multiple influences.

“I consider myself to be making mainstream music. That’s what I want to do, play for people that like the material,” says Hugo. Heading in the direction he is on, Hugo won’t have to worry about people liking his material; it is fresh, reflective and authentic, grabbing your attention and pulling you in for a listen.

>> Buy his album here

Beauty Sleep

5 Reasons why Sleeping Early is important for a Healthy Lifestyle

Getting enough rest and sleeping early is paramount to achieving a healthy lifestyle. Sleeping is the best medication and reward for your body. It is suggested that you sleep early and follow regular sleeping patterns to boost your health levels to stay happy and active. Below are 5 reasons why getting an average of 6-8 hours of sleep is essential.

1. Sleep helps to maintain your body clock

All humans have a body clock, especially women. All our body processes happen at a certain time because the brain runs on a body clock which controls the functioning of our bodies. By sleeping early and for long hours, you’ll be helping the body clock to function properly.

2. Sleep helps to recover

Our bodies heal and recover from the madness and tiredness of the day at night. We think that it is best to allow optimum time to our bodies to recover, don’t you think? This is only possible when you follow a regular routine and sleep early.

3. Sleep affects weight loss

Surprised? Don’t be, because recent studies have shown that too much or too little sleep can affect your weight loss goals. Going to bed early and waking up early is ideal to support your weight loss goals. According to sleep experts, people who have irregular sleep patterns were less likely to lose weight. Sleep well and reach your weight loss goals easily. Do we need to say more?

4. Sleep reduces stress

Do you always feel stressed out? Tired? That’s because you have not been sleeping well, missy. Boost your health by feeling fresh and active when you wake up, only by sleeping early and giving your body the rest it deserves.

5. Sleep promotes mental health

We all know the importance of being mentally happy and fit, don’t we? No amount of exercising can make you feel happier and healthier if you are mentally unwell. Sleeping is essential in avoiding problems of depression, short attention span, memory loss and nasty mood swings. Be on your way to physical and mental fitness by sleeping early.

It's real Heaven

Emeli Sande'

"Heaven" is the debut single from British recording artist Emeli Sandé. It was released by Virgin Records after she signed a record deal with the label after the success of single "Never Be Your Woman" which Sandé was featured as a guest artist. It is also be the first release from Sandé's first debut album, Our Version of Events, on 14 August 2011. The single was added to BBC Radio 1's playlist in June 2011. The song was also crowned record of the week by the station’s daytime DJ, Fearne Cotton. The single is written by Sandé, Naughty Boy, Craze and Hoax, with producer Mike Spencer.

The song is clearly reminiscent of Massive Attack's 'Unfinished Sympathy.' A haunting keyboard intro gives way to a drumbeat where the resemblance becomes apparent.

The song gained all positive reviews from critics; Digital Spy said that the song is a mixture of pacey house beats, mellow strings and Mark Ronson-esque horn sections. The song was also compared to Leona Lewis (whom Sandé has written tracks for) and Yasmin. One critic said that the song was ticking all the good boxes in modern urban music." Critics also said that the song "stunned" them when they heard the song. The single was released accompanied by a music video, which was filmed in London, United Kingdom which premiered on August 22, 2011 on Emeli Sandé's official YouTube account. Throughout the video the music has scenes of Sandé singing to the sky, and standing outside of a Cathedral, there are also many shots where Mary, the mother of Jesus' statue is seen in the video. The single was released via digital download and 7" vinyl on 14 August and 15 August 2011, respectively. The single was made to pre-order several weeks before it was released on iTunes.

'Our Version Of Events' is the sound of a major label throwing a shed-load of money at an artist to get them established among the mainstream landscape straightaway. Sande has to branch out if she wants to attract more than just capital FM listeners and V-festival attendees. All in all 'Our Version Of Event' doesn't match the energy of this first single and sadly sees Sande treading in the already well covered polished love ballad numbers. She's better than that.

Another Brilliant Crooner

Mayer Hawthorne

Just two years ago, Michigan native Mayer Hawthorne came out of nowhere with his debut album, A Strange Arrangement, a blue-eyed soul rendering that called upon the expressive spirit of the 1960s and paid homage to Motown’s golden era. That recording, and a subsequent covers EP, revealed Hawthorne’s infatuation with the musical past, blending the feel-good efficiency of yesteryear with a modern sound. It also provided another glimpse into the retro feel made popular by artists like Hawthorne, Raphael Saadiq and Cee-Lo. But unlike Saadiq and Cee-Lo, who are both black, Hawthorne is a white guy making greasy soul music. By societal norms, that doesn’t happen very often. Maybe that punctuates Hawthorne’s novelty as a viable performer. Or maybe he’s just that natural.

The world’s least likely pop star, Soul crooner Mayer Hawthorne, is back with fresh vid for his ode to his fave alcohol, ‘Henny & Gingerale.’ Fairly stock video, of the badass party in my faux backgarden variety, but it works well enough. 

After receiving critical acclaim for his album, How Do You Do, in October, Mayer Hawthorne is back with the latest video single off the aforementioned project. On Henny & Gingerale, Hawthorne himself provides the laid back, synth based production which doesn’t veer away from his perpetual retro style. Lyrically, the Los Angeles based singer voices a repetitive but catchy hook that could very well still be in your head hours after the first listen. In the video, Hawthorne is at a party where everyone is drinking no shortage of…well…do I even have to say it? For more music to drink to be sure to check out Hawthorne’s latest album, How Do You Do, available for purchase now.