28/02/10: DIANA VICKERS- Once

If you were on this planet two years ago and you didn't hear a mention of Diana Vickers, then what rock were you sleeping under? In case you haven't a clue of this sultry solo singer, Diana was featured on The X Factor and made it down to the final four. However, although failing to bag the winner's position, people saw big talent in the unconventional Vickers and she was swiftly signed up to RCA Records and began working on her new album, entitled 'Songs from the Tainted Cherry Tree'.

The first song from this album, titled 'Once', certainly shows that there is a lot of promise in Vickers. When Diana was on The X Factor, her voice was unlike any other contestant, and luckily that original voice plays a huge part in this track. With a killer hook ('I'm only gonna let you kill me once') and lyrics penned by Cathy Dennis and Eg White, the song incorporates elements of synthpop, a sound that is growing in the UK music scene. At times- especially when the word 'Once' is repeated over and over- the song sounds a little samey and too much pop for liking, but it must be stated that this certainly differs from the route other X Factor contestants have taken. Winners such as Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke have gone for mainstream sounds, but Diana's seems pretty original and quirky in nature.

The song is released on April 19th, one week before Vickers releases her debut album. Today's music scene is packed to the brim with fresh new sounds from female artists, with the likes of Florence + The Machine, Marina and The Diamonds and Ellie Goulding seeing hoards of success. It is yet to be seen whether Diana will see as much success, but this song certainly has the makings to provide the first stepping stone.

21/02/10: CHEW LIPS- Karen

A big name in the UK's underground scene, Chew Lips have seen most of their success through the form of the internet. Last year, tracks such as 'Solo' and 'Salt Air' were widely circulated around sites such as YouTube, Myspace and Lastfm, yet the band were rarely critically acclaimed. However, this year may see that all change, especially following the release of their debut album, 'Unicorn', a month ago.

And with the new album comes the latest release, titled 'Karen.' If you've heard Chew Lips' material before, then this track seems a little more sombre and less catchy than what they have produced previously. However, this is not always a bad thing. 'Karen' incorporates some chilled out electro beats and really highlights the voice of lead singer Tigs. Although this eccentric female's voice isn't the strongest in the pack, it certainly isn't terrible as she sings the beautifully composed lyrics pretty well. The backdrop sound of drums, synths, keyboards and guitars all play a part in Chew Lips' exciting music, and on 'Karen' this is luckily no exception.

When Chew Lips released 'Solo' back in the summer of last year, some critics went as far as saying that the band had produced one of the most exciting hits of the year. 'Karen' clearly isn't as good as 'Solo' as it's a more chilled-out track, but upon listening it clearly proves that Chew Lips deserve to be up there with the best.

01/02/10: EDITORS- You Don't Know Love

With over two million albums sold, two number one albums and a Mercury Prize nomination, it's simple to wonder whether Editors have had enough fame and success. Well here comes along 'You Don't Know Love', just one of a list of stunning tracks from their new album which shows that Editors will continue to thrive through the new year.

In a recent interview, the band stated that their new album- titled 'In This Light and On This Evening'- would have more of a raw and authentic sound, and one listen to this track proves just that. Not only are you overwhelmed by the tracks riffs, synths and backing music, but as like every track produced from the Birmingham band, Tom Smith's voice is enchanting. The song really contrasts the band's previous work, but yet a new change in sound hasn't really affected the appeal of the music Editors produce.

Many fans have criticised Editors new album, in that it really flaunts the new direction the band have chosen to go against. But you cannot fault that Editors are simply producing more catchier, radio friendly tunes, and 'You Don't Know Love' is a highlight of the band's fresh synthpop influences.