I have visions of you still protesting about it all in this thread in three years time

Around 10.40am yesterday morning, the first whispers of a RATM victory in the epic race for Christmas #1 were posted. By 15.23, we had leaked sales figures (although perhaps this was a slight buzzkill). Yet the weekly chart thread still had one its best weeks of the year, with a flurry of activity as the result was officially announced and singles/albums sales figures came in.

But what of the result? Regardless of whether it has any MAJOR impact upon the X Factor next year, just putting a bit more effort into the final product of the X Factor would be welcome really. If The Climb was a good song, we'd have no problem with it going to number one, but a quick rehash of a song that has already charted not so long ago ain't acceptable.

This unprecedented victory raises debate over whether the advent of downloads has led to record companies losing control of their own products, giving us a fantastic opportunity of picking and choosing tracks on albums we can buy if we didn't want to purchase the whole thing. This definitely seems to be a youth-orientated approach to music consumption, perhaps as a result of the two genres that appeal most to younger people (pop and r&b) being notorious for producing albums with a few killer singles and a whole load of filler. Yet there are suggestions that record companies will start to become more selective over what is available on iTunes and other digital outlets. A move which may preserve the album as a complete entity created by an artist to be heard as a whole where the free rein granted by iTunes allows them to be carved up, losing context, intent and positioning.

Of course, noted useless waste of skin Fearne Cotton was on-hand to quickly appease those gagging for her input on the situation (campaign to strap Fearne Cotton to a rocket and fire her into the Sun starts here), branding it "more a case of genuine rock fans versus genuine teenybopper fans." Which assumes only rock fans bought RATM (Not true) and completely ignores the fact that not all pop fans hate rock music and vice versa.

Let's not forget Joe McElderry. He's certainly no Leona or Alexandra, so they SHOULD move quickly and get something out before the summer at least. But they'll have to do a hell of a lot of spin if they rush something out given that even Leon Jackson got an autumn release (mostly to avoid a PR disaster following Leona the year before). Maybe taking into account that this week's chart race was a unique set of circumstances, it would be premature to write Joe off on that basis. The exposure of the new X Factor series and the potential, if he produces a hit, of significantly higher sales than a release in the Spring may be worth the risk.

Check out:
Xmas No.1 Race: Joe McElderry vs Rage Against The Machine
UK Charts (20/12/09) - CHRISTMAS CHART
Predict RATM's position on NEXT WEEK'S chart...
Did you actually buy the RATM or Joe McElderry single?

Joe McElderry vs Rage Against The Machine

Rage Against The Machine vs. X Factor has caused quite a stir so far this week, and Moopy is no different. At the moment, poll results put support for RATM ahead 63.41% to Joe McElderry's 36.59%.

Even those rooting for an X Factor win acknowledged The Climb as tepid at best (well, most people did...) - it's pretty much musical wafers, making tap water look like the flavour option. It's also true that if ANY established artist released that, or any breakthrough artist, we'd RIP THE SHIT out of it like a pack of RABID DOGS.

Yet this also raised the debate of the "real music brigade" - is it sheep mentality to support RATM (furthemore on that point, is the X Factor any less sheep mentality?) - identified as people who only like singers who write their own songs, bands who play live instruments, etc and deride anything that deviates from that. Yet these rules aren't exclusive, as was pointed out using the example of Ricky Wilson from The Kaiser Chiefs, who is neither a songwriter nor an instrumentalist. He's just a singer. However, because his songwriter and his musicians are actually in a band with him rather than working behind the scenes, his music will always be seen by a lot of people as more "real" than, say, Girls Aloud. Indeed, the opinion was put across that as long as real instruments are involved a song could be described as real music whereas a dance track that just uses samples and electronics without an obvious structure would just be SOUND. Perhaps such debate proves only that it's not just rock fans who are music snobs.

Still, despite the X Factor dominance over the past five years, it's reassuring how much people still value the Christmas #1 as something more than an unapologetic display of consumerism - either way, you always have to remember that the X Factor is a talent show and it is voted for by people who regularly watch ITV and enjoy it - i.e. morons.

With RATM at #1 in Tuesday's midweeks, this argument could roll on for some time.

Check out:
Xmas No.1 Race: Joe McElderry vs Rage Against The Machine
What is REAL MUSIC and what IS NOT?
Christmas Midweeks (15/12/09)
Rage Against The Machine for xmas #1

Unlucky Lloyd. englishlads.com awaits you

Daniel McCubbin in the final four? After THAT performance of Your Song? Shame on you Great British public.

WHERE THE FUCK DO I GET THOSE EARPHONES?

Lady Gaga, it seems, really has come to save us. Just a few weeks ago Moopy was revelling in the leak of Bad Romance and now we've been hit by the video:



A few thoughts:

1. THAT IS FUCKING FABULOUS
2. WHERE THE FUCK DO I GET THOSE EARPHONES?*
3. THAT IS REALLY FUCKING FABULOUS
4. NO, SERIOUSLY FUCKING FABULOUS

Ignore claims that this is cheap, overrated or the dancing reminscent of the Spice Girls. True, the set pieces aren't massively elaborate but it's shot in a very deliberate style which works tremendously (if nothing else Gaga herself looks stunning in some of the shots). 'Iconic' has already been used by more than one Moopist to describe this video.

Continuing discussion on The Fame Monster (released in a few weeks) is located here, but the Lady Gaga forum contains further discussion on the new tracks, including Bad Romance, Alejandro and Dance In The Dark as well as chart trackers for the project.

Check out:
Lady Gaga
Lady GaGa 'Bad Romance' \ 'The Fame: Monster'
"Bad Romance" video thread
"Bad Romance" iTunes Chart Tracker
"Bad Romance" Billboard chart tracker
Alejandro + Dance In The Dark Single Covers
The GAGA live performances thread

*The answer to that question is here

CLASSIC BRITISH TV

Where to start on tonight's X Factor result? Let's get the minor details out of the way first: Leona had a noticeably loud backing track, but Moopy doesn't think she was miming (a question ironically posed by a Britney fan, much to the chagrin of some); it's not Dermot's place to openly disagree with the judges comments - but he SHITS ALL OVER that BORING STAGNANT BITCH Thornton; Danyl Johnson is STILL in the competition and we've only reached 67 reasons for hating him.

But the real reason we're here is because Lucie Jones lost out to John & Edward in the most shocking result of the series. Oh, and to commend Louis Walsh giving a two fingered salute to the X Factor audience, presumably in response to their booing of his act. Moopy has, as always, been discussing why the nation has gone into meltdown over tonight's show (we've long since accepted that people really don't care much about actual important issues).

Simon Cowell's power-mad decision to once again take the show to "Deadlock" delighted some Moopists, whilst others were disillusioned with the route the show has now taken, with Cowell seemingly intent on having his acts face off in the final two. Undoubtedly, after critcising John & Edward for so many weeks, he would have been furious had one of his acts lost out to them. Others were unsurprised, having already branded this year a complete and utter car crash and the X Factor as an entertainment, rather than music show.

The other question raised is whether Dannii will return to the show next year following the result. It would seem that having been totally sidelined, Simon Cowell has taken every opportunity since to kick her in the metaphorical balls. Yet she seems to have public support and the show in this format is now picking up its highest ever ratings, surely reasons to maintain stability. The current poll results suggest this may just be an unfounded knee-jerk reaction. In any case, we'd rather see her replaced with a mound of excrement before they brought Sharon back (as has been suggested tonight).

Yet amongst frenzied Facebook/forum/tabloid claims of boycotting next week, chances are that the viewing figures will be boosted further than before. Which is why Cowell's decision makes sense and probably explains his motivation behind the conspiracy theories.

Do join us to share your thoughts on what is sure to be a massive talking point over the week.

Check out:
X Factor
Results Show - Week 5
Live Show - Week 5
Did Leona Mime??
Is Dannii GONE NEXT YEAR?
What's with the Dermot HATE?
What do you think about John and Edward?
101 Reasons why you HATE Danyl
is this year a sick joke?

IN YOUR FACE KATE WINSLET

Having previously dazzled Moopy with her acting skills in 'Glitter' and the success that the era brought for her, we've tentatively been keeping tabs on Mariah Carey's latest cinematic venture: 'Precious'.

For almost a year now, the hype around the film has been growing. Having picked up positive feedback from the Sundance Fim Festival in January ("...her fans will be happy to learn she clearly does not embarrass herself..." is, evidently what passes for a RAVE review these days), the film has recently received a limited theatrical release in America.

'Precious' took $1.8 million from 18 screens for an average of $100,000 per screen. In comparison, 'Glitter' made $786,436 on 1,202 screens for an average of $654 (or roughly 100 people per screen).

The film doesn't get a general release until 2010 over here - not that UK delays are a surprise where Mariah is concerned these days. Nevertheless, she is currently embarking on a promotional tour across the main US chat shows which we're following closely.

As the film's buzz and now commercial success continues to grow, check out the 'Precious' thread in the Moopy Odeon forum for the latest news, Moopy reviews and probably a few weight jibes.

Also:
Precious
Mariah's 'Precious' Promotional Tour

EVERY ALBUM HAS ONE...well, except Leona who seems to have about NINE...

With discussion on Alexandra Burke's debut album still raging on, it's time for Moopy's favourite assault victim, Leona Lewis, to release her second album, 'Echo'.

The 'True Blood'-esque cover was received positively and the initial reaction to the album content follows suit. Although quite a few leaked tracks didn't make the final cut (presumably saved for an October 2010 deluxe edition), it's safe to say that the final product has been received better than both 'Spirit' and Alexandra's 'Overcome' album.

Despite being labelled as "samey" as 'Spirit', this is not an album full of drippy piano ballads. Rather, it's full of epic screamathon ballads with an interjection of upbeats which range from interesting ("Naked") to dreadful ("Outta My Head"). But these tracks mostly serve to make the big ballads stand out more, which will probably be the make or break for most people. Such material is a winner for many posters chez Moopy. On the other hand, whilst Ryan Tedder's involvement is limited to just a handful of tracks, you may be getting a BIT FED UP with the Halo/Bleeding Love esque SCREAMATHON BALLADS now, since EVERY ALBUM HAS ONE...well, except Leona who seems to have about NINE...

'Stop Crying Your Heart Out' (yes it is a cover of the Oasis track) will invariably be compared to 'Run' which numbs its impact for some Moopists, but it's still going down well, as is the final track 'Stone Hearts'.

Initial album rankings have started, but most predict this to be a grower. With an X Factor performance this weekend, we'll be watching the performance of the mixed-reaction lead single 'Happy' next week, and casting eyes over the official release of 'Echo' seven days later.

Hop over to Moopy now to share your thoughts on the album project.

Check out:
Leona Lewis - "Echo"
Leona Lewis ∙ 'Happy'
Queen Leona SLAPPED
Alexandra Burke - Overcome (Album discussion)

The poll of the moment

It's time to take a quick look at the the initial results of today's Moopy poll. There is evidence that the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act is currently working and, incidentally, no-one really likes Angel Delight Chocolate. Unsurprisingly, it only took five posts before someone tried to sully the poll with a "witty" response.

nb. Croatia didn't rank that well on the Favourite 5 Eurovision nations of the decade poll either.

101 Reasons why you HATE Danyl

Last night's X Factor made a very deliberate point of mentioning the bad press that Danyl Johnson has received over the past few weeks. Regardless of how many standing O's he gets from Simon Cowell, or how well orchestrated his "feel sorry for myself" face is, Moopy just does not like him. Whilst there's just under an hour to go until we find out if the UK public once again feels the same way and dumps him back in the sing-off, let's check in with the 101 Reasons why you HATE Danyl thread (the current total stands at 52):

1. The spelling of his name. 'Danyl'. What a twat

2. Them fucking jeans he always wears to meet a mentor (rolled up and EUGH). If you meet Whitney you MAKE AN EFFORT

3. His tongue, its MASSIVE and annoyingly gets shoved in our faces everytime he opens his enormous mouth for the big note.

4. His 'sad puppy' eyes

5. His freakishly large mouth

6. The cunt deleted OUR Eileen from his facebook

7. For not laughing at Dannii's joke about him being bisexual. If it is funny in her head you LAUGH. Even if it is at her, not with her

8. That fact that he brought Dannii Queen of Clubz into disrepute

9. That VOICE, which sounds like he has a potato RAMMED down his throat. OH HOW I WISH!

10. The annoying dancing he did at Simon's judges home

11. The fact he's still there and Miss F.R.A.N.K. are gone

12. For singing SO out of tune at the start of the group song 'I Got A Feeling' - probably why they all have to mime now

13. He has cheeks like cartoon character, not a good cartoon character, a shit cartoon character... with BIG ANNOYING CHEEKS

14. For trying to muster up sympathy because his mother 'drives all the way from kent' to watch him perform. KENT

15. The fact that apparently DANYL (or DANIEL) isn't EVEN HIS REAL NAME. He changed it by deed poll and it's JON BLOGGS or something. WANKER

16. The fact that they keep referring to him as TEACHER, DANYL when in fact he only runs a SATURDAY MORNING DRAMA GROUP for kids

17. His SHITAWFUL intro montage thing, where he's posing 'sexily' all slouched to one side. COCK

18. Britains fifth best girlband (after Girls Aloud, Sugababes, The Saturdays and Girlband) Kandi Rain had to suffer the indignity of being kicked off the show before him

19. The fact he KILLED a modern, Whitney classic live on British TV before THE VOICE herself had the chance

20. Whitney hates him. That's all I need to know

21. He made me waste 15 seconds of my life this morning reading he tweets about how you shouldn't eat cornflakes in bed. WORSE THAN MICHELLE WILLIAMS

22. He called Stacie a TEEN SLAG or something just because he's jealous he doesn't have a vagina and THEN forced her to have a smiley paparazzi photo with him OR ELSE HE'LL SET HIS FROG GOB ON HER

23. He's challenging the Conway Sisters for the title of most punchable X Factor contestant

24. Trying to beatbox at Bootcamp

25. He opens his mouth so wide you can see his fillings

26. He opens his mouth so wide you can see his anus

27. The fact that he sings in a horrible affected way and doesn't sing the melody properly (probably because he CAN'T) and then starts shouting and no one ever says anything about it. And the fact this is set to be repeated every week until he is finally booted off

28. He is often OUT OF TUNE

29. He did the exact same performance twice as if we hadn't seen it

30. He leapt at the opportunity for some VICTIMISATION SYMPATHY after Danni's innocuous comment and never said anything to clear her name.

31. The fact that he gets a Standing O every week for 24

32. How Simon keeps masturbating over him when he's CLEARLY SHIT

33. He looks SHORT

34. He IS short

35. He has that weird sort of semi lisp thing that Su Elise from Mis-Teeq has

36. The face says "no-one is safe in this competition, not even ME" whilst the eyes scream "I'm a WINNER!"

37. Go away and listen to the MELODY

38. He wears cheap, arse-end of Topman sale, boat shoes with those rotten jeans of his. Nautical twat

39. The insistance that EVERY song ever recorded, whether Feeling Good or The Cheeky Song, needs to have an obligatory shouty long, drawn out "money" note right at the end to bring Simon Cowell to his feet

40. He called Stacey adopted

41. He thinks he is more liked than Hitler

42. Hitler knew how to WORK A CROWD

43. And get votes (well ISH)

44. Hitler was an ARTIST

45. Hilter probably wouldn't have voted for Danyl

46. He couldn't be arsed to come out fighting with his performance unlike Rachel and many others who have been in the sing-off over the years

47. His moronic fans. On X-tra factor some twonk called in and refered to Dannii & Cheryl's constructive critism (about losing his mojo) as "bullying". Get a grip luv!

48. He is a bullying victim

49. He's a cunt

50. He's too ashamed to come out as gay, so sticks with bi so he doesn't lose fans

51. His 'woe-is-me-so-vote-for-me' expression

52. The fact he forgot the words and no fucker bothered mentioning it, though when other people do it they lose their shit over it

Ok, so you might think Moopy is unnecessarily harsh (or that we really struggle to count into double digits without getting confused), but just look at that face and then try to resist clicking here and adding to the tally...

It's JUDY FINNEGAN OH TEN

Where to begin with this weekend's X Factor? It was of course all about Whitney Houston (and gladly saying goodbye to Rikki Loney), much to Moopy's delight. Her performance of Million Dollar Bill provided a plethora of talking points: a disenchanted post-performance discussion of the contestants ("I thought they were... ... YOUNG... ... A lot of... time to grow... practice. PRACTICE... practice...") with eyes transfixed on the floor; the unfortunate wardrobe malfunction; the stair-stumble and missed cue intro...in conclusion, an almost car-crash disaster that most people loved.

Cheryl might have come off better, but there's no doubt it's Whitney that people will be talking about tomorrow. Of course, the appearance has led to speculation about whether Whitney really is "clean", as well as renenewed predictions about the performance of the album and single.

Let us know what you thought. Check out:
SECOND RESULTS SHOW
WEEK 2 - SATURDAY LIVE SHOW
Rate Whitney's X Factor perf
Is Whitney really CLEAN?
I LOOK TO YOU: UK SALES PREDICTOR
Million Dollar Bill - UK CHART TRACKER

She looks like the kind of bitch who WANTED to be a fag hag but no one wanted HER

Moopy has a long history of frustration and general disgust at the Daily Mail. However Jan Moir's article earlier this week about the suspicious nature of Stephen Gately's death, and furthermore the effect that this has on the perception of same-sex marriage.

Regardless of the fact that the article is offensive and insensitive, considering it was published just days before Gately had even been buried, it contains sweeping assumptions ("Whatever the cause of death is, it is not, by any yardstick, a natural one. Let us be absolutely clear about this")

Although the article and headline have been edited several times since, along with the withdrawal of third party advertising, the Press Complaints Commission informed many Moopy complainants that it could not act, as they were not "directly" affected, despite the fact that such homophobic propaganda is offensive to anyone who reads it. Furthermore, there is a double standard when 38,000+ people can complain about a BBC radio programme few of them actually heard in its entirety.

Moir has apologised, by suggesting that her article was not homophobic and the complaints resulted from a "mischevious" internet campaign. However, regardless of how Gately died, the insinuation that this and Kevin McGee's (unrelated) recent suicide denote some kind of problem exclusive to civil partnerships, remains offensive.

Moopy hopes that the Daily Mail has finally bitten off more than it can chew. The article has certainly caught the attention of most major news outlets, we'll be keeping an eye on the fallout.

Check out:
Jan Moir and the Daily Mail are utter cunts
Lowri Turner...homophobic?

'You're VERY welcome'

Moopy, like many other sites, has been discussing the news of Stephen Gately's unexpected death since early this morning.

Many people have been fans of Boyzone for a number of years. Even if they weren't, they knew someone who was. He might not have been the best pop star in the world, but he had a presence in many people's musical upbringing.

Some posters have been sharing their memories, both recent and from their youth as Moopy collectively marks another unexpected celebrity death in 2009.

Check out:
Stephen Gately DEAD
Best Boyzone/Stephen Gately single

That Dannii thing was such a "well it sounded good in my head" moment

The X Factor went live last night, with Dannii Minogue grabbing the headlines after a misjudged comment about Danyl Johnson's sexuality.

Moopy is adamant that having watched it in utter bemusement, claims of homophobia have absolutely no grounding. But as a live lead balloon moment, it did leave the Queen of Clubs looking a bit stupid.

Furthermore, much to our annoyance, it's hypocritical that those people calling for her to be sacked are likely the same that remained silent whilst Dermot O'Leary made quips about Louis Walsh's sexuality during the last series.

Although no-one does unpopularity quite like Dannii Minogue, in this case it appears to be a clumsily worded cheeky comment which has inexplicably caused national outrage amongst braindead housewives and mentally challenged gays. Despite the immediate furore prompting some posters to predict this will end Dannii's career, the majority of Moopy is confident that she can pull it back as the series progresses.

We'll all be watching tonight to see how Dannii and perhaps more importantly, Simon Cowell handle the latest in a string of PC rows.

Check out:
Has Dannii fucked it?
First live show thread
First Show: Best Performance

The golden rule about British polling is, the poll that shows Labour doing the poorest is usually right

Now for something a bit different. Moopy isn't just about all things music-related and very occasionally, we do get down to some (mostly) serious political musings.

Amongst the growing speculation that Gordon Brown may be too ill to lead the Labour party, some have speculated this could be a chance for Gordon Brown to leave the party without losing face. Although others believe that the intention has always been for him to step aside after formally announcing the next election.

Furthermore, Moopy mostly agrees that the election is all but a foregone conclusion, despite lacking confidence in David Cameron and doubting predictions of a landslide victory. However, the exact strategy Labour should take in the next six months splits opinion somewhat. Brown could remain in office and lose seats, but protect the reputation of his successor from immediate defeat. Or he could step aside for a makeshift leader, who may retain Labour a decent minority during the Conservative term.

Ignoring the pseudo-BNP ramblings of The Sun switching their support from Labour to Conservative, the flipside is that if there were an election to lose, this would be it. The drop in budgets and higher taxes as a result of the economic climate will truly be felt during the next term. Thus the Conservatives may find theirs to be something of a blame-taking leadership.

As the attention turns to number crunching, gains and losses over the next few weeks and months, expect the culture & politics forum to get markedly busier. Moopy, as ever, will be keeping tabs on all of the important topics.

Check out:

Brown too ill to lead rumours...
EU referendum on its way?
What do you think of Sarah Brown?
Should the Prime Minister resign/be ousted?

It's no 'Two Ladies' from the Cabaret soundtrack

Following a mostly positive impromptu Britney album rate/discussion last weekend, her new single 3 has now had just about enough time to be picked over by Moopy.

The only new track on the forthcoming singles collection received its radio premiere yesterday:


It was written by Max Martin and it's not a million miles away from the mostly well-received Circus album. Winning combination surely? When was Moopy ever that predictable...

Admittedly, the response wasn't entirely negative. Whilst only one poster proclaimed it possibly better than Womanizer, there were murmurs of appreciation, (particularly for the middle-eight) even if some found the whole experience ridiculous to the point of amusement.

Mostly though, it wasn't good news. Let's face it, the song is barely more than a collection of random lyrics and a monotonised chorus. 3 is probably best summed up as insipid, uninspired old toot, rushed out far too soon after the mediocre Circus tour. Even those rating it a 7/10 moment acknowledge that's still far too low for a brand new Britney single. Maybe it's time to drop the electropop and vocoders, go away for a bit and come back when she's got something good to show.

3 is released in the UK on 16th November, one week before The Singles Collection.

Check out:
3 (New Single)
Britney Spears: The Singles Collection
I'm having a BRIT BRIT Sunday

This is going to become big news pretty soon (even if it is going to be shown on Five)

Debuting to around 12.5 million viewers in America last week, FlashForward comes to the UK tonight at 9pm, courtesy of Five.

Already touted as a worthy companion to Lost and Heroes, the show has been generating buzz over the past few months. Enough so that at least a few posters will be tuning in tonight and passing judgement.

Whether you watched it last week or are waiting until tonight, let Moopy know what you think in the discussion thread.

Also check out:

Moopy TV
US TV SEASON 2009-2010 - PLEASE VOTE!
Lost - Season 6
Heroes - Season 3

Let's face it, there's been an ACHING GAP in the nation's collective life since the previous incumbent gave up the post in 1997

The X Factor moved to Boot Camp in this weekend's pair of episodes, leaving us with the final 24 of the competition. Oh, and at last, the arrival of Dannii Minogue to series six.

Saturday's episode did pose a few burning questions: What happened to 3rd Miss Fit? Should there be more categories? Who exactly keeps picking Through The Rain as incidental music?

But it was Sunday that sent the X Factor forum into (relative) meltdown. After muted coverage during the auditions (compared to Cheryl, a point that hadn't gone unnoticed), even Moopy had written Dannii off. But yesterday saw a triumphant comeback of tears, manic laughter and of course, Kylie.

Whilst her saying bye to a perrenial loser was (potentially) the TV MOMENT OF THE YEAR, let's not forget Dannii's sombre "it's a 'no' from me" face. Or her introduction of Kylie (more on that next week). The Moopy concensus is that she well and truly
trumped Cheryl Cole over the past weekend.

Next week, the final 12 are chosen - although click here if you can't wait until then to find out who's going through. Amongst our early favourites: newly formed trio Miss F.R.A.N.K and Ethan (can't imagine why...), although currently most people think Simon has the strongest group with the over 25's.

Episode by episode discussion will be continuing over the next few months, alongside other general related topics and assorted Louis Walsh/Cheryl Cole depreciation. Check out:

Bootcamp
I'm so over Dannii as a judge right now
Final 24: Who's got the best group?
Worst X-Factor judge
Best X-Factor Judge - PAST and PRESENT

Look at the amazing success September has had with trying to formularise her sound...

Here's the thing. Moopy loves Sweden and the vast majority of the pop music that extends from within its borders (check out the Robyn forum if you think I'm under-selling it). Thus, we were behind the release of Agnes' Release Me earlier this year, but admittedly taken aback by just how well it did.

Looking at the reaction to the next single, I Need You Now, there's a fair amount of trepidation. Evidently fearing that the favoured On & On may sound "too Euro" for the British public (or should that be the oh-so-influential media), we've instead been treated to a remixed and re-recorded I Need You Now. That is, it simply involved adding a TINNY BEAT and some RELEASE ME-ESQUE STRINGS.

Which leaves the single caught somewhere between the two. Indeed, the new, non-ballad I Need You Now pertains strictly to the blueprint set down by Release Me which should, hopefully, give it a chance of playlisting (it's already been premiered by Radio 1). However, like September before her, releasing a diluted copy of a breakthrough single proves nothing of the artists' long-term potential. In fact, most fans agree that whilst the song is "ok", the album holds much better tracks.

Let's just hope then, that unlike September's digital-only album, I Need You Now does enough to warrant a full commercial release (7th December being the date). One that proves Agnes has more than just those Release Me-esque strings to her bow.

Check out:

Agnes - I Need You Now
Agnes - On And On
Agnes - 'Release Me'

I don't know who told this bitch we wanted another Charmbracelet, it certainly was not me

Whilst we're on the subject of artists who seem intent on showing their fans as little regard as possible, focus must turn to Mariah Carey.

For over two months now, the 'lambs' and the 'haters' have been scrutinising Obsessed's chart performance in America. After a slow-start, the "buzz single" managed to peak within the top ten. Thus inevitably, focus turned to the album.

Despite the immense amount of pre-release hype for the album (how exactly did we reach 27 pages?!), anticipation has been mixed from the start. Would Mariah's first JD-less album since Glitter be a good move? Would it return the lambs to plink-plong whispery Charmbracelet hell? What exactly could a song titled Ribbon be about?

The answer to all of the above is a mostly resounding "ZZZZ", with some posters unable to see the album through to the end. True, the first three tracks (Betcha Gon' Know, Obsessed and H.A.T.E.U.) have survived relatively unscathed, but the reaction to the album as a whole makes the ten-steps-backwards I Want To Know What Love Is sound earth-shattering by comparison.

Yet, the album does have some fans and there could be some Moopy-esque U-turns abound. Meanwhile, whether the album is a max volume or mute moment, we'll be keeping a close eye on the charts to see how Memoirs... plays out.

Check out:

Mariah Carey - Memoirs... FIRST LISTEN PARTY
Mariah Carey - Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel (Pre-release rambles)
Mariah Carey - I Want To Know What Love Is
Obsessed CHART TRACKER

What am I supposed to do? Keel over into a flock of crows???

If there was one word to sum up this period of Madonna's career, Celebration, in all honesty, probably wouldn't be it.

True, whatever else happens, the compilation released on Monday is arguably one of the most important hits collections of all time, but there's a lot of discussion in the Madonna forum over the general lack of care that's been shown towards this album.

The lack of sleevenotes, the shoddy editing (the end of American Life audible at the start of Hollywood; mastering errors during Music; the unexpected sudden end to Don't Tell Me), the visible www.discosingles.net logo on the artwork, the tracklist. Almost every aspect of this album has been examined under the microscope and the results are not good!

Despite acknowledging that it'd be near impossible to create a two-disc Madonna retrospective and please everyone, the main issue here really is that neither she or the record company appear to have put much effort in at all.

Nevertheless, Celebration is #1 in the midweeks, albeit by a relatively small margin. We'll definitely be keeping tabs on this one to see how it performs over the festive period. In the meantime there's plenty of discussion (both positive and negative) to be had in relation to the project.

Check out:

RELEASE DAY
36 Songs That Changed The World...
How satisfied are you with the Celebration project so far?
Make a sane Celebration tracklist in as few moves as possible
Revolver
It's So Cool
"Celebration" UK iTunes thread

Update: Sugababes - OFFICIAL: Keisha OUT, Jade IN

The current line-up of the Sugababes has disbanded.

Heidi Range and Amelle Berrabah will continue as the Sugababes and will be joined by new member Jade Ewen. They release their album ‘Sweet 7’ on November 23rd through Island Records.

Keisha Buchanan will continue to record for Island Records as a solo artist.

Admittedly, it wasn't quite the news anyone was expecting, but with rumours of a low-key album re-recording and Keisha being ousted from the group by Amelle and Heidi, it certainly makes for potentially the best pop story of the year.

So what next? With Jade Ewen on board, the new album still pushing ahead and Amelle poised to take centre stage, it seems the immortal Sugababes bandwagon ain't stopping here, despite having now seen out all three founding members...

Check out:
Sugababes - OFFICIAL: Keisha OUT, Jade IN for updates, speculation and reaction.
Vote for Your Favourite Ever Sugababe (2009 edition).
Compile your Ideal Sugababes line-up

It all went wrong when it stopped looking like it was being transmitted from a computer in Romania via a block of council flats in Shoreditch

If you had access to Sky or cable during the '90s, chances are you remember The Box. Not, as it is now, a selection of music videos scattered between a series of pre-programmed shows and teleshopping - but back when for £3.50, viewers could select any video listed and watch it through a dull blue haze.

This was the time when one minute you'd get a TLC/702/En Vogue TRIPLE WHAMMY and then B*Witched would come on (for the 40th time that day).


For every Busta Rhymes, there was a Solid HarmoniE. For every Steps, there was a Scooch. The Box was the channel where acts from the pop toilet were guaranteed coverage (and in some cases managed to score genuine hits). At least until 9pm, after that it was full of videos that were all just black women shaking their arses at the camera.

Evidently for many Moopists, The Box was a massively influential in terms of showcasing new artists, even if many of them never quite found their way to the big time. It may well live on to this day, now transmitting in HQ and accompanied by an array of sister channels. But it really never was quite the same when it stopped looking like it was being transmitted from a computer in Romania via a block of council flats in Shoreditch.

Check out: Let's remember The Box (90s style)

She's nicked Gina G's Eurovision dress

Alexandra Burke's single Bad Boys (Feat. Flo Rida was premiered last month on Radio 1. The Moopy reaction was mixed, to say the least.

Fast forward one month and now we have the video:

It'd be fair to say that the immediate impression is more than mediocre, with almost every aspect dissected: the disco shimmy at 48 seconds, the spazzy dance routine, even the dress (whose wardrobe is a garment down: Beyoncé or Gina G?)

So far then, a resounding EAT THAT LEONA YOU BORING ASS BITCH out of 10.

Let us know what you think: Alexandra Burke - Bad Boys

Who thought doing a parody of a bad Lady Gaga DRAG ACT in Justin's MY LOVE VIDEO was a GOOD IDEA

It'd probably be fair to say that as far as Cheryl Cole goes, Moopy doesn't exactly buy into the "Queen of Hearts" portrayed on The X Factor. Nevertheless, her first single 'Fight For This Love' has generated much discussion and now here's the video:


Is it a knockout for Cheryl, or are you in the "LOVE THE SONG. HATE THE BITCH" camp? Either way, let us know.

Strictly Come Dancing vs. The X Factor

End-of-year television stalwarts Strictly Come Dancing and The X Factor are back and already generating discussion.

Strictly Come Dancing generates a weekly show thread (week one here) and some irreverent discussion like the Axe a Strictly Come Dancing Judge poll (look away Bruno) which is still open for votes and optional character assassination.

The X Factor has it's own sub-forum for anything and everything relating to the ITV1 juggernaut.

Hot topics include:

Dannii vs. Cheryl 2009
Diana Vickers: still a twat
What is Ruth Lorenzo up to these days?

Sugababes - Amelle OUT, Jade Ewen IN?

From the moment the "news" broke yesterday that Amelle has left the Sugababes, discussion has touched on just about everything and anything 'Babes related. Is it Keisha's fault ("someone needs to have a word with Keisha. EVERYONE HATES YOU WITH A PASSION, LOVE. WORD OF ADVICE: DON'T BE IN A GROUP. EVER.")? Is Jade Ewen joining the group (apparently, she's already been dropped by her record label)? Will Mutya, or noted former Mis-Teeq member Su-Elise step up to the plate? Is Amelle better off alone?

Despite the story passing for truth in the tabloids today, there's still been no official confirmation from the Sugababes camp. For the latest updates, rumours and obligatory slander, check out the Sugababes - Amelle OUT, Jade Ewen IN? thread.

Also see: Jade Ewen - Punching Out

Whitney Houston - Million Dollar Bill

Whitney's on the comeback trail. Except in the UK, where her new album has been delayed until mid-October (presumably to tie in with an X Factor performance), a move that most agree is a "shitty decision".

Nevertheless, despite the lukewarm reaction to the marketing strategy, the feedback on the Million Dollar Bill video is overwhelmingly positive. Log on, let us know what you think.

Also check out: I Look To You chart tracker: http://www.moopy.org.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=63212