How long have you been with Live in Limbo and what do you do for the site?
I’ve been with Live in Limbo for 4 years as one of their concert writers.
What were your three favourite albums of 2015?
1. Florence and the Machine – How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful
I haven’t stopped listening to this record since its release! I loved how different it was from Ceremonials. Its spiritual lyrics mixed with its powerful sound madefor a thrilling listening experience.
2. The Japanese House– Clean EP
This little gem was incredibly soothing, perfectly layered, and a step up from the first EP
3. Oh Wonder – Oh Wonder
A mellow record laced with R&B styled keyboards and epic beats. What more could you ask for?
What was the most underrated album of 2015?
Ryn Weaver – The Fool
Since she was labeled the one to watch for this year, I was surprised how underrated her debut was.
What were your three favourite songs of 2015?
1. Florence and the Machine – “What Kind of Man”
The slow build follow by the heavy arrangements was a flawless introduction to How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful.
2. Lianne La Havas – “What You Don’t Do”
I definitely had this song on repeat this summer. Lianne’s voice sounded like velvet which goes well with the jittery piano keys and burst of brass instruments.
3. Oh Wonder– “Without You”
I love the saxophone on this track. It’s the cherry on top that makes this song an absolute hit
How many concerts and/or festivals did you go to in 2015?
30
What were your three favourite concerts of the year?
1. Florence and the Machine @ Halan’s Point, June 12
My first time seeing the Ginger Goddess live and I felt like I’ve been saved by grace.
2. Jessie Ware @ Danforth Music Hall, April 4
Her sold out show at Danforth was a intimate affair which brought us littler closer to Jessie.
3. Lianne La Havas @ Danforth Music Hall, October 2.
She’s incredibly humble and her live shows are nothing short of class! If you haven’t seen her in action, you’re truly missing out.
What was your favourite festival of the year?
I had only attended one festival this year (Bestival) and it was enough to convince I don’t want attend another.
Who was your favourite festival headliner?
N/A
Which artist or band won 2015?
It’s a tie between Drake and Taylor Swift. I swear their reign just won’t let up. From Bad Blood to Hotline Bling, the world loves them and people desperately wanted to be a part of their squad (I’m looking at you Meek Mill and Katy Perry). Whether you’re a fan or not, you can’t deny these two had 2015 in the palm of their hands.
What/who was the biggest musical disappointment for you?
Miley Cyrus – what the hell happened to this woman?! After the success of BANGERZ, she really started to go downhill. I believe her silly antics are just a sad attempt to keep reminding people she’s not Hannah Montana anymore. We get it now can you stop!
In your opinion, what was the biggest music story?
The ridiculousness that is Tidal – I found the whole thing to be very corporate and it took away the fun of streaming music online.
What was your favourite new musical discovery of 2015?
Oh Wonder – this London duo took me by surprise. I had come across their track “Livewire” on iTunes and I immediately became obsessed. Their pop lacked hooks and smooth R&B styled sound will take you were the wild things are. Although their songs touch on some tough topics such as addiction (“Dazzle”), heartache (“Landslide”), and cancer (“White Blood”), they seek hope and you find strength. I can’t wait to see them when they come to the Danforth Music Hall next month.
Who should we be looking out for in 2016?
Rihanna’s new album – ANTI (It’s her 8th album, I’m curious to see what she has in store)
Adele’s 25 world tour (She’ll be at the ACC on October 3-7 – mark your calendars and stock up on Kleenex!)
Who do you hope goes on tour next year?
Backstreet Boys and Spice Girls – I’ve heard rumors that are planning a tour together.
There’s a strong possibility this is not going to happen but a girl can still dream right?
Who’s going to be headlining (or at least playing) all the 2016 festivals?
I’m guessing Justin Bieber – his new album, Purpose seems to be a hit. I think he’s slowly regaining his creditably and warming his way back in the music world.
Is there anything else you want to say about 2015 or predict about 2016?
It was a good year for discovering new artists/bands that I can’t wait to see live next year.
And I predict and will accept an Ed Sheeran rap EP in the not so distant future.
