2/20/14 - MKTO

MKTO is a musical duo consisting of Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller, meeting on the set of a Nickelodeon show called Gigantic as well as appearing on other films. Their stage name comes from the initials of their names. But in an interview, they also said that it represented the kind of music they make, Misfit Kids and Total Outcasts, which is aimed mostly at high school students.

Despite a generic theme, both of them proves that they can still create some head-bopping music. We've seen some musical acts coming from Nickelodeon such as Big Time Rush and Ariana Grande but MKTO is the one whose music is something that I like.

Their debut album was just released this month and it includes 11 tracks including collaborations with Jessica Ashley and Ne-Yo. Prior to the release of the album, they released three singles within the past year, Thank You, Classic and God Only Knows. All three of them were so catchy especially Thank You which is some sort of rebel's anthem for standing up against those who have looked down upon them.

What I like about them is their dynamic, with Tony providing the pop and singing vocals while Malcolm compliments with his smooth rapping to keep the fast pace of the songs.

Heartbreak Holiday may be one of the most genuine and heartbreaking songs to be sung by those who experience the tragic feelings of love and rejection which is timely for this month's celebration of Valentine's Day. However, Their collab with Ne-Yo, Could Be Me, shows an optimistic view of relationships and how this guy is what the girl is really looking for.

I don't always give musical acts from kidde networks/shows a try but they manage to create fun pop music that doesn't reach too far from their image unlike some current Disney pop girls and that is something I appreciate. This album is one of my fave pop albums this year.

Top tracks: Heartbreak Holiday, Thank You and God Only Knows