Saturday 29 January 2011

Bebel Gilberto and the dodgy Spanish singer

I've been a fan of Bebel Gilberto since her ground-breaking electronic bossa nova album 'Tanto Tempo' - an album I bought by accident in HMV (don't ask).  It remains to be a classic album and the tracks have been used on many movie and TV soundtracks over the past few years. 
It's hard to believe that 'Tanto Tempo' is 10 years old because it still sounds so fresh.  In actual fact, it's my personal soundtrack to long hot summers and love (please don't vomit).

During my Spanish trip, I was treated to a performance of 'So Nice' by a singer in a restaurant.  It's a song that I firmly associate with Bebel because of it's appearance on the 'Tanto Tempo' album.  The unfortunate Spanish singer destroyed it.  To right that wrong, I would like to pay tribute to the definitive version by Bebel.  Watch the video, pour yourself a glass of wine and then I dare you to download the album.  You won't regret it.

Vanessa Paradis

She's a pop star, an actress, a model and she's the partner of Johnny Depp.  I first came across Vanessa Paradis back in 1987 (Yes, I'm that old) and I've been fascinated by her since.  English fans are no doubt thrilled that she is performing a rare UK date at London's KOKO club on 2nd February.  It's sold out.

Vanessa will be performing tracks from her 'Greatest Hits' album along with some new tracks.  She is sure to play this gem from 1992.  'Be My Baby' was produced by Lenny Kravitz and was the lead single from her 3rd album.  Enjoy.

The Rain in Spain

I've been in Spain for the past week - just in case you've been wondering where I've been.  We spent most of the week in a resort, which was nice as we were given an apartment for 8 people (even though there is only 2 of us). 

Unfortunately the weather was awful, but the highlight of our trip was going to Seville.  It's such a beautiful city.  Rich in amazing architecture and history.  If you enjoy snooping like I do, you will enjoy what Seville has to offer.  There is an amazing Cathedral in Seville which is worth visiting, but I feel I should warn you as well.  The amount of money and time spent on this structure is obscene.  Surely the money and effort should have gone towards helping the needy.  It is an incredible structure but I can't help but question the morals of those that created it.