JD Samson is a powerful figure in underground music.
As a founding member of both Le tigre and MEN the musician cut a swathe through the overly cerebral side of left field culture, preferring instead to party down the barriers in the most flamboyant manner possible.
Still a gripping, thrilling stage presence, JD Samson is set to travel to London later this month for a one off DJ set.
Berlin festival Yo! Sissy is making its debut in the UK capital, and JD Samson will join the likes of Alexander Geist, Laura Clock, Q Boy, and more.
First, though, Clash presented JD Samson with a challenge - review this week's singles...
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Bryan Adams – 'Do What Ya Gotta Do'
An old fashioned pop song. I have nothing against musicians making music. No matter what. If this is his expression, I’m happy he released it. This is not a song I will probably be listening to again, although I appreciate all music as much as I can. Don't give up Bryan.
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Foals – 'Birch Tree'
Ah. A light airy pretty song. These are the kinds of songs that I never choose to listen to, but that when I hear in a cafe and other people’s cars I appreciate. I like the guitar (which i nearly never say). Peter Bjorn and John meets Warpaint with beards. Vampire Weekend on Xanax.
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Izzy Bizu – 'Mad Behaviour'
I like her voice. This doesn’t feel like a song to me, so I wish I had something else to grasp onto. I like the melody of the chorus but I wish the structure was more satisfying. It never gets to the place I want it to and I’m frustrated. Maybe that’s the point. Sometimes I wonder if its just an American thing. This track feels inherently English, (not a bad thing), I’m just too American to hear it right.
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Markus Feehily – 'Sanctuary'
Well the video made me cry. But I guess I shouldn’t be swayed by that part of it. I’m not a big fan of gospel style emotional pop, in general. I think this is cookie cutter English gay pop, and I am not gonna hate on it. If you like that, then this is your track. I’ll be crying in the loo.
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Only Girl – 'Young Blood' [EP]
I do not understand this. I feel nothing. (I’m sorry)
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The Weeknd – 'Often'
The signature Weeknd melody slide is nothing short of brilliant, catchy, and satisfying. Great song. Are the lyrics misogynist? Probably. Or maybe. I can’t decide if fucking many women in one day is messed up or not. I mean, do they know? Are they consenting? Maybe his next record will be more political. One can only hope.
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White Balance – 'Hunter'
The music had promise. I do not enjoy the vocals. I would like to stop listening, but I must wait 24 more seconds. This is very hard not to turn off. I’m sorry.
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Yo! Sissy hits London on March 19th at The Glory, Kingsland Road - tickets.