I love Patrick Wolf.
I'm sure most people are aware of this fact by now.
I got a lovely little email t'other day spreading word that of the release of 'Damaris', the third single from Th Bachelor.
Continuing the album’s theme of lost love, ‘Damaris’ relays the tale of an 1800’s love that was never to be, which Patrick discovered whilst tracing his family’s ancestry. You get the impression that this is more than simply the telling of a story though, and can’t help but consider the similarities Wolf has drawn between himself and Lewis – the Romeo of the saga – whose perspective he takes in the track, especially given the overall subject matter of The Bachelor.
A dramatic tale of romance, voiced in a way only he is capable of, Patrick Wolf’s ‘Damaris’ is set to be released on December 14th.
The video came to light a matter of hours later. Which I was rather excited about seeing.
But, after watching the video a few times since it was let loose, I’m left feeling a little bit underwhelmed…
Now, as I’m sure you’re aware, I normally can’t fault the Wolf, but The Bachelor’s previous two videos have made much more of an impact than this, which – with Wolf as the Lewis/Romeo character, and Gwendoline Christie (what a fabulous name) as Damaris – to me this is just all a bit too art-school-project-esque...
Maybe a few more viewings’ll do it for me... Maybe not... Who knows...
See for yourselves…
Wednesday 11 November 2009
Destroy/Rankin
Using my magic 'skillz', I managed to acquire an invitation to the Destroy/Rankin private launch night thanks to the lovely folks over at Youth Music.
Open from November 10th at the Phillips De Pury Gallery, London, Destroy/Rankin showcases musicians’ ‘destroyed’ versions of iconic Rankin portraits of themselves in celebration of Youth Music’s 10th birthday.
Youth Music is an organisation which focuses their efforts on young people, and provides them with the means to express themselves and realise their talents through music. Check out their website – www.youthmusic.org.uk.
The Destroy/Rankin exhibition is an attempt at showing the similar worlds in which music and art exist, and that they are essentially one of the same. Noteworthy artists featured are Debbie Harry, Little Boots (who is also performing at the event on Thursday 12th), Carl Barat, Florence Welch, Patrick Wolf, Mel C (!) and Jarvis Cocker, whose UV penned schoolboy penis drawings are well deserved of a few giggles.
Monday night wasn’t all just about the pretty pictures though, and as well as spotting Joss Stone, we were treated to some rather nice performances too. First up was Mica Townsend, Youth Music Ambassador who has been helped over the last few years by the charity, and when you hear her voice, you understand why they’ve spent the time doing so. Second up, Josh Weller. I’m quickly becoming something of a fan of this big-haired boy and his sweet sing-alongs, not to mention his mic stands covered in pink balloons. Micachu and The Shapes were next, complete with baby-milk tin and other such hand-crafted percussion... Not really my cup of tea to be honest, maybe I'm missing something, or maybe they aren't actually that good... Finally, Patrick Wolf treated us to a few ‘too much red wine on the flight back from Brazil’ influenced songs, which included a tribute to the Spice Girls in the form of a brief chorus from ‘Viva Forever’, new single ‘Damaris’, and the ever wonderful 'Magic Position'. I had to behave myself and resist singing along to everything, as I seemed to be the only person, stood dead in the centre of stage, that knew who he was... This was easier said than done after a few too many glasses of free champers too...
The event is open to the public from today, with the benefit auction taking place this weekend, as well as some prints being part of a ‘silent auction’ over on eBay. If anyone fancies buying me the Carl Barat one so I can perv over it from the comfort of my own home, feel free...
Friday 6 November 2009
What A Shambles
The last few posts are just to prove a point really, that I have actually been writing and am (vaguely, at least) aware of what's going on.
And now I'm pretty much up to date.
So back to last night's business.
The early hours of Wednesday on a slightly tipsy bus journey home, the done thing is to check to Twitter, clearly. And once again I thank the powers that be for inventing this magical thing known as ‘social networking’.
On this occasion, I am delightfully informed that Babyshambles have been announced as, weekly club night, Smash & Grab’s* secret headliner for this week. Drunken excitement overwhelms me. And then I forget. Until the next morning when the executive decision is made to go to the gig.
Now, anyone that knows me, will know of my love for The Libertines, but, with the chances of a long-term reunion pretty slim, I have to make do.
So, to Camden I go, after spending the day feeling as excited as I used to ‘back-in-the-day’ when going to gigs would involve a three hour journey, and a two hour wait, freezing my bum off in the queue just to secure pride of place in the front row. Clearly most people weren’t quite as eager, as the place was pretty empty when I arrived.
Whilst waiting for evening’s highlight, we were ‘entertained’ by a DJ, who very much loved that people were watching her and her ridiculous ‘I’m pretending my arms are wings’, ‘interpretative dance’ MALARKY. It’s not cool, you look like a moron, go back to drama school love. And then later by two bands, whose names I can not remember, nor can I seem to find online anywhere...
So I’ll just have to get to the matter at hand then won’t I?
On rocks Pete. Denim jacket clad. Signature hat (adorned with a screwdriver this evening). Neck adorned with a tattoo reading ‘Astile’*. Looking rather chirpy. After a little bit of instrument faffing, they kick of with a new song about “a junkie from Portugal”. And the madness begins. And I know the night’s off to a good start.
The rest of the set was mostly made up of a nice selection of newbies, including a track called ‘The BNP Blues’ – played whilst things were getting even more hectic, and after a failed plea for everyone to calm down and stop pushing – and a sprinkling of older sing-alongs, including ‘Beg, Steal or Borrow’ and ‘Delivery’. Thrown in amongst everything, was also a rendition of ‘Billie Jean’, which managed to morph into The Pet Shop Boys’ ‘West End Girls’...Post the centre-barrier disappearing, and myself ending up bang in the middle of the front-row, Pete and co decide to step things up even more, and belt out ‘Killamangiro’. Somehow, near the end of this, I end up on-stage. Just in time for ‘Time For Heroes’. And so I stand on the front of the stage, singing my little heart out, overly content that this is happening*.
I’m eventually ‘re-directed’ to the side of the stage when ‘Fuck Forever’ kicks off the last of the night’s entertainment, and just as, amidst the mayhem, Pete falls over on-stage… He gets up, the music stops, the crowd go bloody mental.
And I can safely say it was one of the best gigs I’ve been to for a rather a long time. Not from a musical ability perspective or anything, but from, dare I say it, an ‘experience’ perspective. I have seen them before, but never anywhere quite as
sweaty as Proud, or quite so associated*, which made it all the more enjoyable for me.
Have some pictures, courtesy of me and my expert photo-taking skillZ with a 'Z':
Useless Libertines related pop facts:
*Smash & Grab – Weekly club night organised by Queens of Noize. One of whom, Tabitha, was present an DJing last night. She can also be seen in the ‘Up The Bracket’ video.
*’Astile’ – The name of Pete and Lisa Moorish’s son. His name is an amalgamation of the letters from theirs.
*As mentioned, I am a ridiculous, geeky Libertines fan. And I partly blame them for nurturing my fascination and love for London. So ultimately, it is their fault I now live here.
*Proud – When the Gallery doesn’t have a Kings Of Leon photography exhibition on, as it does now, the walls are adorned with many of Roger Sargent’s iconic images of The Libertines.
And now I'm pretty much up to date.
So back to last night's business.
The early hours of Wednesday on a slightly tipsy bus journey home, the done thing is to check to Twitter, clearly. And once again I thank the powers that be for inventing this magical thing known as ‘social networking’.
On this occasion, I am delightfully informed that Babyshambles have been announced as, weekly club night, Smash & Grab’s* secret headliner for this week. Drunken excitement overwhelms me. And then I forget. Until the next morning when the executive decision is made to go to the gig.
Now, anyone that knows me, will know of my love for The Libertines, but, with the chances of a long-term reunion pretty slim, I have to make do.
So, to Camden I go, after spending the day feeling as excited as I used to ‘back-in-the-day’ when going to gigs would involve a three hour journey, and a two hour wait, freezing my bum off in the queue just to secure pride of place in the front row. Clearly most people weren’t quite as eager, as the place was pretty empty when I arrived.
Whilst waiting for evening’s highlight, we were ‘entertained’ by a DJ, who very much loved that people were watching her and her ridiculous ‘I’m pretending my arms are wings’, ‘interpretative dance’ MALARKY. It’s not cool, you look like a moron, go back to drama school love. And then later by two bands, whose names I can not remember, nor can I seem to find online anywhere...
So I’ll just have to get to the matter at hand then won’t I?
On rocks Pete. Denim jacket clad. Signature hat (adorned with a screwdriver this evening). Neck adorned with a tattoo reading ‘Astile’*. Looking rather chirpy. After a little bit of instrument faffing, they kick of with a new song about “a junkie from Portugal”. And the madness begins. And I know the night’s off to a good start.
The rest of the set was mostly made up of a nice selection of newbies, including a track called ‘The BNP Blues’ – played whilst things were getting even more hectic, and after a failed plea for everyone to calm down and stop pushing – and a sprinkling of older sing-alongs, including ‘Beg, Steal or Borrow’ and ‘Delivery’. Thrown in amongst everything, was also a rendition of ‘Billie Jean’, which managed to morph into The Pet Shop Boys’ ‘West End Girls’...Post the centre-barrier disappearing, and myself ending up bang in the middle of the front-row, Pete and co decide to step things up even more, and belt out ‘Killamangiro’. Somehow, near the end of this, I end up on-stage. Just in time for ‘Time For Heroes’. And so I stand on the front of the stage, singing my little heart out, overly content that this is happening*.
I’m eventually ‘re-directed’ to the side of the stage when ‘Fuck Forever’ kicks off the last of the night’s entertainment, and just as, amidst the mayhem, Pete falls over on-stage… He gets up, the music stops, the crowd go bloody mental.
And I can safely say it was one of the best gigs I’ve been to for a rather a long time. Not from a musical ability perspective or anything, but from, dare I say it, an ‘experience’ perspective. I have seen them before, but never anywhere quite as
sweaty as Proud, or quite so associated*, which made it all the more enjoyable for me.
Have some pictures, courtesy of me and my expert photo-taking skillZ with a 'Z':
Useless Libertines related pop facts:
*Smash & Grab – Weekly club night organised by Queens of Noize. One of whom, Tabitha, was present an DJing last night. She can also be seen in the ‘Up The Bracket’ video.
*’Astile’ – The name of Pete and Lisa Moorish’s son. His name is an amalgamation of the letters from theirs.
*As mentioned, I am a ridiculous, geeky Libertines fan. And I partly blame them for nurturing my fascination and love for London. So ultimately, it is their fault I now live here.
*Proud – When the Gallery doesn’t have a Kings Of Leon photography exhibition on, as it does now, the walls are adorned with many of Roger Sargent’s iconic images of The Libertines.
In This Light
Editors first arrived back in 2005 (when Chris, the guitarist tried to sneak me into their first ever Irish gig because I was underage. What a SWEETHEART) with their Mercury nominated debut ‘The Back Room’, a fact that is making me feel a little bit old. The album was well loved by many, and the band soon built a name for themselves and their intoxicating music and captivating live shows, namely due to front man Tom Smith’s Ian Curtis-esque stage presence where it was obvious that he lost himself in the music. 2007 saw their second release ‘And End Has a Start’. I was a rather big fan of ‘The Back Room’, but was slightly disappointed with their second offering, which came across as something of an extension of the debut.
Now, here we are in late 2009, and the boys are back with ‘In This Light and On This Evening’. And I am once again rather impressed. Third time round and the Birmingham four piece have taken a more mysterious, alt-80s direction on us. And it works magically. Tom’s trademark voice is in place, cementing a sinister view on the world, soundtracked by distorted guitars and the welcome addition of more than a few synths. Opening with the title track, the lyrics ‘I swear to God, in this light and on this evening, London’s become the most beautiful thing I’ve seen’ lyrics are enigmatically relayed and later burst into a mass of noise. A few songs in and recent single ‘Papillon’ rushes in with a heap of synth goodness, and later erupts into recent facebook-status-favourite amongst more than a few friends of mine – ‘it kicks like a sleep twitch’ securing its place as a fan favourite. Personal highlight ‘Eat Raw Meat = Blood Drool’ holds a later position on the album, and begins quite reminiscent of The Big Pink’s ‘Dominos’. This does however pass when Tom’s vocal once again makes an appearance proclaiming ‘I don’t wanna be ignored… When I’m a gun in a fist fight’. ‘Like Treasure’ precedes this, and the only thing I can focus on whenever I hear this are the lyrics ‘you’ll become digestives’ and the thought of someone turning into a biscuit… (Obviously, these are not the actual lyrics, it is in fact ‘digestED’… But times are tough these days, you have to find entertainment where you can).
The album overall is fast becoming a favourite, potentially even overtaking ‘The Back Room’ in my books. And all that’s left to say is that I’m rather annoyed at the fact I missed them on their last visit to London…
I could waste loads of time reviewing the new Alphabeat single ‘The Spell’ section by section, verse to chorus, chorus to bridge and right back the final chorus. But I’m not going to do that.
Basically, it’s a bit rubbish and wouldn’t go a miss on ‘Greatest Hits of the 90s’ compilation you’d pick up in a service station for £3.
A bit *too* 90s. A bit *too* cheesy. A bit *too* clean and sparkly. Dare I say it, a bit *too* pop? Now I have nothing against pop, but this just doesn’t hit the spot…
The band got dropped from their record label late last year, only to be picked up by Polydor in March of this year. But let’s face it, they’re not going to be remembered for much more than ‘Fascination’ are they? You remember, that somewhat annoying song that you can not help but sing along to which is currently being used in the Diet Coke ad.
On a complete tangent, if you still hate that song, I must urge you to, anytime you use a word ending in ‘-ation’, try and squeeze it into that song. Some personal favourites:
- You see a drunk boy/girl pathetically trying to come onto someone – “Desperation! Woah oh, woah-oh-oh-oh!”
- You spot a rather sweaty person with ever-so attractive pit marks – “Perspiration! Woah oh, woah-oh-oh-oh!”
- … You get the idea.
Long story short, Alphabeat will only be remembered, if at all, for ‘Fascination’.
Basically, it’s a bit rubbish and wouldn’t go a miss on ‘Greatest Hits of the 90s’ compilation you’d pick up in a service station for £3.
A bit *too* 90s. A bit *too* cheesy. A bit *too* clean and sparkly. Dare I say it, a bit *too* pop? Now I have nothing against pop, but this just doesn’t hit the spot…
The band got dropped from their record label late last year, only to be picked up by Polydor in March of this year. But let’s face it, they’re not going to be remembered for much more than ‘Fascination’ are they? You remember, that somewhat annoying song that you can not help but sing along to which is currently being used in the Diet Coke ad.
On a complete tangent, if you still hate that song, I must urge you to, anytime you use a word ending in ‘-ation’, try and squeeze it into that song. Some personal favourites:
- You see a drunk boy/girl pathetically trying to come onto someone – “Desperation! Woah oh, woah-oh-oh-oh!”
- You spot a rather sweaty person with ever-so attractive pit marks – “Perspiration! Woah oh, woah-oh-oh-oh!”
- … You get the idea.
Long story short, Alphabeat will only be remembered, if at all, for ‘Fascination’.
War Child Schmwar Child
OK, I know it’s for a good cause and all that, but, personally, I have more than a few issues with the upcoming War Child release.
Under the alias ‘Young Soul Rebels’, a group of recent chart stormers, including N-Dubz, Pixie Lott, Tinchy Stryder and VV Brown, come together to perform a ‘re-written’ version of The Killers ‘All These Things That I’ve Done’, now entitled ‘I Got Soul’. Now, it’s not really been re-written as such, it’s pretty much just the recognisable bridge of the song, with a few verses put in between.
Verses which in the video are oh-so-modernly recited via mobile phone screens...
A video which is painstakingly Band Aid, all it’s missing is a few tears in the eyes of the performing pop stars.
Saying all of that, and judging by plenty of comments I’ve read, I’m clearly not ‘down with the hip kids’ and just don’t seem to get it, plus, it is for charidee, so go buy it on October 19th, and I hope it does well, blah blah blah.
As if the above wasn't tempting you enough, have a look at the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWJdV5SqT68
Under the alias ‘Young Soul Rebels’, a group of recent chart stormers, including N-Dubz, Pixie Lott, Tinchy Stryder and VV Brown, come together to perform a ‘re-written’ version of The Killers ‘All These Things That I’ve Done’, now entitled ‘I Got Soul’. Now, it’s not really been re-written as such, it’s pretty much just the recognisable bridge of the song, with a few verses put in between.
Verses which in the video are oh-so-modernly recited via mobile phone screens...
A video which is painstakingly Band Aid, all it’s missing is a few tears in the eyes of the performing pop stars.
Saying all of that, and judging by plenty of comments I’ve read, I’m clearly not ‘down with the hip kids’ and just don’t seem to get it, plus, it is for charidee, so go buy it on October 19th, and I hope it does well, blah blah blah.
As if the above wasn't tempting you enough, have a look at the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWJdV5SqT68
Listen to The Big Pink
It’s taken me some time to actually get around to listening to The Big Pink’s debut ‘A Brief History of Love’, the hype killed them for me before they’d even properly begun. And then I heard ‘Dominos’ on the radio. And wanted to listen to the album even less.
However, this is one of those occasions where I must admit that I was wrong with my ill informed judgement.
Faffing about with Spotify, I decided it was worth a listen. And I am now very glad I came to this decision.
Raucous, electric rock with a healthy dose of moody, shoegaze indie thrown in ‘A Brief History of Love’ makes me want to don a leather jacket and go see them live, only to exit, ears ringing and reeking of whiskey and coke.
‘Frisk’ is a sinister late-album point, channelling a few 90s grunge spirits, as well as being slightly reminiscent of a fewer of BRMC’s distorted, noisier tracks.
Even ‘Dominos’ has grown on me after a few more listens in the context of the album as a whole.
The album ends with a track called ‘Countbackwards from Ten’, which initially sounds as though it’s going to burst into a cover of Pixies’ ‘Where Is My Mind?’ only to take on a form of its own and set the perfect close to a well-deserved-of-the-hype debut.
Moral of the story? Listen to The Big Pink.
Just a wee bit late...
This has been a while coming, but a few weeks ago word got round that Adam Green was playing a cheeky little show in The Flowerpot. I got excited, and then realised I potentially had other plans, dependent on an email I was yet to receive... However, I did receive the email, so Adam Green went out the window...
So off I wander to Camden. Koko specifically. To see...
...
“WHO?! Tell us who is so much better than Adam Green that you sacrificed his only UK solo show for!” I hear you ask.
...
...
Well I will disclose this information. I went to indulge my 15 year old emo-self and see Funeral For A Friend.
And my goodness it was worth it.
The band are currently on tour promoting their new album ‘Your History Is Mine’ – a collection of their singles from 2002 – 2009.
I was expecting the gig to be full of little people and feel very old, until it was rightfully pointed out to me that everyone was about the same age as me, and we were all little people when the songs were originally released.
So, feeling old no longer, I spent the rest of the evening belting out the likes of Rookie of the Year, Into Oblivion, She Drove Me To Daytime Television and Juneau. And what a lovely time I had. As did everyone else I watched - from the comfort of and comparatively calm top floor of the venue - getting messy in various circle pits below me. Some friends of mine turned their noses up at my decision to attend the gig, as opposed to Adam Green, however, I care not for their opinions.
Then it was time to move onwards. Aftershow here I come.
And there I stayed until the early hours, dancing to ridiculous rock classics and talking to Charlie fromBusted Fightstar. And giving him advice on man bags. Oh yes, I kid you not.
I think the correct decision was made.
Have a photo, cheekily pinched from Gigwise)
So off I wander to Camden. Koko specifically. To see...
...
“WHO?! Tell us who is so much better than Adam Green that you sacrificed his only UK solo show for!” I hear you ask.
...
...
Well I will disclose this information. I went to indulge my 15 year old emo-self and see Funeral For A Friend.
And my goodness it was worth it.
The band are currently on tour promoting their new album ‘Your History Is Mine’ – a collection of their singles from 2002 – 2009.
I was expecting the gig to be full of little people and feel very old, until it was rightfully pointed out to me that everyone was about the same age as me, and we were all little people when the songs were originally released.
So, feeling old no longer, I spent the rest of the evening belting out the likes of Rookie of the Year, Into Oblivion, She Drove Me To Daytime Television and Juneau. And what a lovely time I had. As did everyone else I watched - from the comfort of and comparatively calm top floor of the venue - getting messy in various circle pits below me. Some friends of mine turned their noses up at my decision to attend the gig, as opposed to Adam Green, however, I care not for their opinions.
Then it was time to move onwards. Aftershow here I come.
And there I stayed until the early hours, dancing to ridiculous rock classics and talking to Charlie from
I think the correct decision was made.
Have a photo, cheekily pinched from Gigwise)
Monday 26 October 2009
Forgive me...
... For the lack of attention I have been paying this home.
I have been attempting to sort my life out and find a job to pay the bills. I have achieved this, however, three days in and I hate it already. Yes, hate may be a strong word, but honestly, some people need to find some other things to do with their life and stop taking these sort of jobs so bloody seriously. Needless to say, I am continuing my search.
On to more serious matters. I am continuing my "how could I forget how god this song is?" theme thanks to a brief OC binge yesterday I have been reminded of this lovely music which, to me at least, is very reminiscent of Ireland, what with the band being Irish, and me being a resident there when these were released, and has resulted in me longing to visit once again... One thing which does scare me however is that the album from which these are lifted is from 2003. I was 15... Dear Lord...
Age aside, this is Bell X1. Many a time have myself and my companions taken the piss out of them and their 'delightful' fans, however, there is no denying that this is a rather good song, my first experience of which was thanks to a free CD from a newspaper I believe:
This *may* have the ability to make me cry:
(See those scary Apple people? They used to come out on stage with them...)
This one just came on too, and has to be mentioned:
The entire album 'Music in Mouth' is beautiful in my opinion... Do yourselves a favour and get Spotify going. And if it doesn't tickle your fancy at this moment in time, save it for when you're feeling sorry for yourself.
x
I have been attempting to sort my life out and find a job to pay the bills. I have achieved this, however, three days in and I hate it already. Yes, hate may be a strong word, but honestly, some people need to find some other things to do with their life and stop taking these sort of jobs so bloody seriously. Needless to say, I am continuing my search.
On to more serious matters. I am continuing my "how could I forget how god this song is?" theme thanks to a brief OC binge yesterday I have been reminded of this lovely music which, to me at least, is very reminiscent of Ireland, what with the band being Irish, and me being a resident there when these were released, and has resulted in me longing to visit once again... One thing which does scare me however is that the album from which these are lifted is from 2003. I was 15... Dear Lord...
Age aside, this is Bell X1. Many a time have myself and my companions taken the piss out of them and their 'delightful' fans, however, there is no denying that this is a rather good song, my first experience of which was thanks to a free CD from a newspaper I believe:
This *may* have the ability to make me cry:
(See those scary Apple people? They used to come out on stage with them...)
This one just came on too, and has to be mentioned:
The entire album 'Music in Mouth' is beautiful in my opinion... Do yourselves a favour and get Spotify going. And if it doesn't tickle your fancy at this moment in time, save it for when you're feeling sorry for yourself.
x
Tuesday 29 September 2009
World's Smallest Festival
It’s a Sunday afternoon in late September... I’m on a bus, travelling to depths of South East London to attempt to find a house, with a garden, where the ‘World’s Smallest Festival’ is to be held, the brainchild of two guys, who describe themselves as “2 nim wits trying to blag a million pounds by any means possible”.
So, over an hour on what seems to be a never-ending bus journey, I finally arrive, jump off the bus, head up a street, when I come across a front garden occupied by two portaloos, one could only assume that this is the right place.
And one was indeed correct in her thinking.
Past the front door (gaffa-taped to prevent unwanted intruders, of course), through the side entrance to the garden, I find myself in a rather overgrown garden, where you’d be forgiven for thinking that The Secret Garden was set. Past one gazebo, complete with decks and a set of old cinema chairs, following a rather overgrown garden path I come across a very necessary food stall, through some more trees and stray branches I discover the main stage, tucked away in the very bottom corner, opposite an even more essential beer tent. Time for a Strongbow.
Tickets to the festival could only be won, by entering a draw, by text, at the measly cost of £1.50. From those, 50 people were randomly pulled from the hat to attend with a plus one of their choice.
The Pipettes were due to headline the festival, but due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’ (translation – ‘we can’t be bothered’) they pulled out a few days before the event. How and ever, the day was fabulous, and the polka dot princesses should be gutted they missed the festivities. The day began with a lovely lady and her ukulele, singing some sweet folk, and then moving onto playing with some delay pedals and softly telling the tale of The Owl and The Pussycat.
The day continued as I flitted from stage-to-stage (the ‘comedy tent’ being gazebo number 1, as passed when entering), where a few friends of Donal (Mr Blag-a-Million) had been roped in to perform their various sketches/songs. The next highlight was without a doubt the Dulwich Ukulele Club (there were no shortages of ukuleles throughout the day as I’m sure you’ve guessed), who almost crashed the stage, literally, what with the fact that there were about seven of them on stage, manically dancing. They were also affectionately renamed the ‘Dulwich Ukulele Menagerie’ by the increasingly drunk, and increasingly funny, compere of the afternoon.
Later on, the beautiful Langley Sisters treated the crowd to a performance of their perfectly harmonised blend of folk and showtunes which wouldn’t have gone a miss in a 40s jazz club, there was a magician who swallowed some goldfish, and then the crowd descended upon the comedy stage/tent/gazebo where the legendary Mr Arthur Smith (of Grumpy Old Men fame in case you were wondering) treated us to some stand-up and a few readings from his autobiography ‘My Name is Daphne Fairfax’. Another trek was then in order as the masses moved towards the main stage and everyone enjoyed a dance to Jarmean, a brass based group of lovelies telling tales of London, which led the night into its finale, where Mr Howard Marks (if by some ridiculous chance you don’t know who this is, get Wikipediaing NOW to save yourself anymore embarrassment) took to the stage, telling stories of his drug-fuelled exploits over the years, which is clearly, the way every festival needs to end.
After a final word from Mr Blag-a-Million himself, this time draped in the coat made of a thousand teddy bears to keep out the cold, it was time to go home. What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon eh?
If you’d care to check out the Blag-a-Million project, and maybe donate some of your not-so-hard-earned student loan check this website.
Here are some pictures:
Dulwich Ukulele
Jarmean
x
Baby Get Shaky
No doubt if you’ve hit the town recently, you’ll have heard ‘Baby Get Shaky’ by The Ian Carey Project. Ian Carey is a DJ hailing from Maryland, USA, and has hit the spot with his latest offering of the perfect combination of catchy, chart-topping, dance-floor-hitting, pop loveliness. Check out the video below, and I guarantee you you’ll be singing it for the rest of the day, potentially even the next week.
One thing I do have to mention, and this has been playing on my, and a few others’ minds for the last while, every time the “woah oh there you go-oh” bit hits, I just can’t help but break into the chorus of the ever-so 80s classic ‘Maneater’ by Hall & Oates…
If you didn’t notice, listen to the track/watch the video below, and I dare you to even attempt to listen to ‘Baby Get Shaky’ again without thinking of it…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_-TuqfD4AM
(No need to thank me!)
(If I was a little more clever I'd have made some hilarious mash-up version of both videos, alas, I am not)
x
One thing I do have to mention, and this has been playing on my, and a few others’ minds for the last while, every time the “woah oh there you go-oh” bit hits, I just can’t help but break into the chorus of the ever-so 80s classic ‘Maneater’ by Hall & Oates…
If you didn’t notice, listen to the track/watch the video below, and I dare you to even attempt to listen to ‘Baby Get Shaky’ again without thinking of it…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_-TuqfD4AM
(No need to thank me!)
(If I was a little more clever I'd have made some hilarious mash-up version of both videos, alas, I am not)
x
RIP Sugababes
So, last Friday, rumour was Amelle was leaving Sugababes, which in all honesty didn’t phase me, she was my least favourite what with her weird ‘I stand like the letter ‘S’’ (surely I’m not the only one who’s noticed this?) and after her input in ‘Get Sexy’ (I’m not even going to go into my thoughts on that song, here is neither the time, nor the place, and I just don’t have enough room to ‘express my opinions’. Ahem).
And let’s face it, Sugababes members leaving is hardly a new thing is it?
Next thing, Jade Ewan, the girl that’s managed to drag the UK out of the ever-embarrassing ‘UK – nil points’ at Eurovision is replacing Amelle. Fine. Perfect. She’ll make a better Sugababe anyway.
Then, off the PR offices go for the weekend.
Monday evening. I go to a meeting in the evening, it went on longer than I anticipated. I log on to feed my Twitter addiction once I get out, only to find the KEISHA’s left, Jade Ewan’s replacing her and along with Heidi and Amelle, she’ll be performing under the Sugababes name.
WHAT???!!!
This is not what I was expecting, and I am STILL, more than a little upset at the news.
Since 1998 they’ve graced our TV screens, our radio stations, and just generally always been there somewhere, albeit in a few different line ups, but still with at least one original member.
Now that’s no longer.
Now we’ll have no more Overload. No More Freak Like Me. No more Round Round. No more About You Now. No more Push the Button.
We’re going to have more Get Sexy. Woopie-bloody-doo.
Pop will never recover.
In tribute, take a look at some Sugababes classics, just in case you’d forgotten just how good they were:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thdiKotbp3Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGSajAGg9h4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2fyLK5JsEk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tl8Mz_Ap0U
Rest in peace. You will be sorely missed.
And let’s face it, Sugababes members leaving is hardly a new thing is it?
Next thing, Jade Ewan, the girl that’s managed to drag the UK out of the ever-embarrassing ‘UK – nil points’ at Eurovision is replacing Amelle. Fine. Perfect. She’ll make a better Sugababe anyway.
Then, off the PR offices go for the weekend.
Monday evening. I go to a meeting in the evening, it went on longer than I anticipated. I log on to feed my Twitter addiction once I get out, only to find the KEISHA’s left, Jade Ewan’s replacing her and along with Heidi and Amelle, she’ll be performing under the Sugababes name.
WHAT???!!!
This is not what I was expecting, and I am STILL, more than a little upset at the news.
Since 1998 they’ve graced our TV screens, our radio stations, and just generally always been there somewhere, albeit in a few different line ups, but still with at least one original member.
Now that’s no longer.
Now we’ll have no more Overload. No More Freak Like Me. No more Round Round. No more About You Now. No more Push the Button.
We’re going to have more Get Sexy. Woopie-bloody-doo.
Pop will never recover.
In tribute, take a look at some Sugababes classics, just in case you’d forgotten just how good they were:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thdiKotbp3Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGSajAGg9h4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2fyLK5JsEk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tl8Mz_Ap0U
Rest in peace. You will be sorely missed.
Monday 14 September 2009
*Excuse me!* Filthy girl based rap amazingness coming through
As happened before, I have a list of things I have all good intentions of writing about here, however, this has all been scrapped for this evening.
Thanks to a tip off from The (soon-to-be-defunkd) London Paper, I am currently listening to, and being wowed by this lovely lady.
This album is, quite simply, awesome.
'Make Up' is a current forerunner for favourite status, as well as the 80s based 'Big Heavy' and DIRTY 'Might Like You Better'.
The Santigold friendship is completely understandable.
The Peaches comparisons are also understandable.
It's also wonderful to see a bit of Lykke Li on there, calming things down slightly at the end.
A god damn filthy, electro laced, sleaze-tastic, NOISY album.
What's NOT to like?
Girl power indeed.
x
Thanks to a tip off from The (soon-to-be-defunkd) London Paper, I am currently listening to, and being wowed by this lovely lady.
This album is, quite simply, awesome.
'Make Up' is a current forerunner for favourite status, as well as the 80s based 'Big Heavy' and DIRTY 'Might Like You Better'.
The Santigold friendship is completely understandable.
The Peaches comparisons are also understandable.
It's also wonderful to see a bit of Lykke Li on there, calming things down slightly at the end.
A god damn filthy, electro laced, sleaze-tastic, NOISY album.
What's NOT to like?
Girl power indeed.
x
Sunday 13 September 2009
Hello Life
I am now an official London resident.
Woop woop! etc etc.
I am now also an employee of the lovely Cavendish Arms.
I spend Saturday nights perched on a bar stool, manning the door and generally being a bit of a social whore and yapping to bands.
Here are some pictures:
It's very nice, and very cosy, and everyone is lovely, and there is a lovely selection of board games for your enjoyment.
Do come pay me a visit one Saturday.
I am also 'lending my services' (or something) to the lovely folk at TuneTribe, who will soon be launching an artist consultancy group, which I'm sure I'll be plugging at some point in the near future also.
Stay tuned kids.
x
Woop woop! etc etc.
I am now also an employee of the lovely Cavendish Arms.
I spend Saturday nights perched on a bar stool, manning the door and generally being a bit of a social whore and yapping to bands.
Here are some pictures:
It's very nice, and very cosy, and everyone is lovely, and there is a lovely selection of board games for your enjoyment.
Do come pay me a visit one Saturday.
I am also 'lending my services' (or something) to the lovely folk at TuneTribe, who will soon be launching an artist consultancy group, which I'm sure I'll be plugging at some point in the near future also.
Stay tuned kids.
x
Sunday 23 August 2009
Tick-tick-ticked off the list
Contrary to popular belief, or at least what this blog'll have you believe, I am alive and relatively well. Well, my @fifitxbl Twitter account has been REACTIVATED! Woop!
I have been neglecting updating duties as of late as I have returned to University-home (which technically isn't my home any more) and am as such bumming at Lady KT's shiny new house in Bucks. Whilst here I attempting MISSION: SORT LIFE OUT. Ie - Find a London based abode/as many music related ventures to involve myself in. And progress is beginning. Albeit slowly. Fingers crossed by next week I will be an official resident of London...
Some bits on my list-of-bits-of-things-to-mention from a good couple of months ago:
First off, a couple of selections pinched from my ever musically reliable house-mate and one-time uni DJ partner in crime.
It may not have an official video, however, it's still fun.
And, we have discovered, can be made even more fun when you replace the words with your shopping list. Hours of entertainment in Asda, TRUST me.
Now for some more raucousness:
Clearly, I am a wee bit late with this one, which I partially blame on my 'situation' of late, but N.A.S.A. deserve as much attention as possible.
I *SHALL* return...!
x
I have been neglecting updating duties as of late as I have returned to University-home (which technically isn't my home any more) and am as such bumming at Lady KT's shiny new house in Bucks. Whilst here I attempting MISSION: SORT LIFE OUT. Ie - Find a London based abode/as many music related ventures to involve myself in. And progress is beginning. Albeit slowly. Fingers crossed by next week I will be an official resident of London...
Some bits on my list-of-bits-of-things-to-mention from a good couple of months ago:
First off, a couple of selections pinched from my ever musically reliable house-mate and one-time uni DJ partner in crime.
It may not have an official video, however, it's still fun.
And, we have discovered, can be made even more fun when you replace the words with your shopping list. Hours of entertainment in Asda, TRUST me.
Now for some more raucousness:
Clearly, I am a wee bit late with this one, which I partially blame on my 'situation' of late, but N.A.S.A. deserve as much attention as possible.
I *SHALL* return...!
x
Monday 10 August 2009
The traumas of my life...
I am still located in Cornwall, my time has been spent rather bored, and trying to avoid the masses of tourists who are all descending upon the small towns in and around my house... And evidently not updating this blog...
But, last week, my world was turned upside down...
I'm sure most people are aware of the Twitter downtime last week, yes we were all victims, don't try and pretend you didn't notice. However, during this time, my Twitter account was hacked. Yes, HACKED!
I've never been the victim of hacking before, and it isn't particularly something I want to experience again...
So my account got suspended, and I lost all my followers, and people I was following... Needless to say this has distressed me somewhat over the last few days.
However, I have now given up waiting for a response from the customer service peeps, and started afresh, so I am now @FiSwanson.
I have a massive list of things to comment on in here, but you'll have to hold tight...
x
But, last week, my world was turned upside down...
I'm sure most people are aware of the Twitter downtime last week, yes we were all victims, don't try and pretend you didn't notice. However, during this time, my Twitter account was hacked. Yes, HACKED!
I've never been the victim of hacking before, and it isn't particularly something I want to experience again...
So my account got suspended, and I lost all my followers, and people I was following... Needless to say this has distressed me somewhat over the last few days.
However, I have now given up waiting for a response from the customer service peeps, and started afresh, so I am now @FiSwanson.
I have a massive list of things to comment on in here, but you'll have to hold tight...
x
Tuesday 21 July 2009
Because it's been a few days since I've mentioned them...
In slight Dead Weather related news, the-man-who-never-stops-working Mr Jack White, alongside his more regular partner in crime Meg are releasing a documentary.
'Under Great White Northern Lights' is due to premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September...
After which who knows what he'll pull out of the bag next...
x
'Under Great White Northern Lights' is due to premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September...
After which who knows what he'll pull out of the bag next...
x
U.S.E.
Back in the day, I was a hUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUge Muse fan, I even turned my hand to becoming a regular contributor their forum for a while.
First time I popped my Muse live cherry was in The Olympia Theatre Dublin, a beautiful venue, both inside and out in 2004...
It was a wondrous experience for a girl of 16, which most certainly determined their status as 'a band to see before you die', at least in my books anyway.
I have since seen them on a number of occasions, most recently last year whilst once again in Dublin, this time it was an all round bigger affair, involving enormous satellites stage side and plenty more lasers.
But that was then, and this - 'United States of Eurasia' - is now
Now Mr Bellamy and Co have never been shy when it comes to eccentricity, and this doesn't let down on that front...
However, personally, it could take a bit of growing... And some consistent reminders that it's Muse, not Queen in more than a few places...
(She says as she longs for Origin of Symmetry days...)
x
First time I popped my Muse live cherry was in The Olympia Theatre Dublin, a beautiful venue, both inside and out in 2004...
It was a wondrous experience for a girl of 16, which most certainly determined their status as 'a band to see before you die', at least in my books anyway.
I have since seen them on a number of occasions, most recently last year whilst once again in Dublin, this time it was an all round bigger affair, involving enormous satellites stage side and plenty more lasers.
But that was then, and this - 'United States of Eurasia' - is now
Now Mr Bellamy and Co have never been shy when it comes to eccentricity, and this doesn't let down on that front...
However, personally, it could take a bit of growing... And some consistent reminders that it's Muse, not Queen in more than a few places...
(She says as she longs for Origin of Symmetry days...)
x
Thursday 16 July 2009
*Insert attempt at humourous/satirical Sugababes 'Here Come The Girls' related title*
(Calling this something related to that horrible Sugababes song would be cringe worthy, however, I am clearly not clever enough to come up with anything more original given that this post is related to female artists...)
First off: My new best friend - Little Boots.
So, Little Boots debut 'Hands' came out a few weeks ago, and I seem to have been too preoccupied with my ever increasing Dead Weather obsession to blog about it, so fear no longer, it's here.
What with Little Boots being my best friend, I am very much a fan of the release.
A perfect balance of electric disco fun, cheesey at times yes, but in all the right ways that'll see plenty of tracks becoming gay-club anthems in no time.
Fancy a dance around your roomwailing singing along at the top of your voice? This is the album of the summer to do just that to.
Not that I'm guilty of that... *Ahem*
Regina Spektor - Far
A lovely, playful little album from the lady whose music is the perfect cure for 'one of those moods'. Some personal favourites being 'Folding Chair' (check her MySpace), 'Dance Anthem of the 08s' and 'The Wallet' - a sweet little tale of a lost wallet, returned thanks to a Blockbuster card inside...
Florence & the Machine - Lungs
There's been a lot of hype surrounding Ms Welch, and I think this album justifies it. Sparkly and theatrical, 'Lungs' has been on repeat in my world for days (until Horehound arrived obviously). I still find it difficult to believe that Mairead 'Queen of Noize' Nash managed her and is, essentially, the one to blame/thank (delete according to opinion) for her current number 2 album success ...
x
First off: My new best friend - Little Boots.
So, Little Boots debut 'Hands' came out a few weeks ago, and I seem to have been too preoccupied with my ever increasing Dead Weather obsession to blog about it, so fear no longer, it's here.
What with Little Boots being my best friend, I am very much a fan of the release.
A perfect balance of electric disco fun, cheesey at times yes, but in all the right ways that'll see plenty of tracks becoming gay-club anthems in no time.
Fancy a dance around your room
Not that I'm guilty of that... *Ahem*
Regina Spektor - Far
A lovely, playful little album from the lady whose music is the perfect cure for 'one of those moods'. Some personal favourites being 'Folding Chair' (check her MySpace), 'Dance Anthem of the 08s' and 'The Wallet' - a sweet little tale of a lost wallet, returned thanks to a Blockbuster card inside...
Florence & the Machine - Lungs
There's been a lot of hype surrounding Ms Welch, and I think this album justifies it. Sparkly and theatrical, 'Lungs' has been on repeat in my world for days (until Horehound arrived obviously). I still find it difficult to believe that Mairead 'Queen of Noize' Nash managed her and is, essentially, the one to blame/thank (delete according to opinion) for her current number 2 album success ...
x
Let's get this out of the way
Yes I am in love.
But in fairness, what is not to love?
Jack White and Alison Mosshart. Together.
Pure sexy, filthy rock n roll.
Leather jackets, cigarettes and whiskey.
This is what they have to say for themselves:
Also, check the FULL LENGTH (as opposed to the previous trailers) Jonathan Glazer directed short:
And if that wets your appetite, purchase the album - Horehound, it's well worth the few quid, or if you're feeling cheap, check here, where you'll find some lovely sensual goodies along the lines of this to keep you quiet:
The Dead Weather.
A personal musical highlight of the year?
I think so.
On a possibly (although more than likely not) final note regarding my new favourite band ever, if anyone would like to purchase the vinyl version of Horehound for me, you'll get nothing in return, but you would make me very happy. Ta.
x
But in fairness, what is not to love?
Jack White and Alison Mosshart. Together.
Pure sexy, filthy rock n roll.
Leather jackets, cigarettes and whiskey.
This is what they have to say for themselves:
Also, check the FULL LENGTH (as opposed to the previous trailers) Jonathan Glazer directed short:
And if that wets your appetite, purchase the album - Horehound, it's well worth the few quid, or if you're feeling cheap, check here, where you'll find some lovely sensual goodies along the lines of this to keep you quiet:
The Dead Weather.
A personal musical highlight of the year?
I think so.
On a possibly (although more than likely not) final note regarding my new favourite band ever, if anyone would like to purchase the vinyl version of Horehound for me, you'll get nothing in return, but you would make me very happy. Ta.
x
Rainy days and CSS codes
I am currently in rainy Cornwall, accompanied by Deal or No Deal, with a massive list of things to blog about, I am on someone else's computer, which means a computer that actually WORKS, which increases the chances of all topics on such a list surfacing.
I have spent the last number of hours playing with MySpace 2.0. I thought I'd take advantage of the working computer and sort it out, and I am quite proud of myself, not that I managed any of the codes myself, they were of course all stolen from various other sites, and the edit playlist option doesn't seem to be working at the moment (which was really the main reason I decided to do it), but my MySpazz is indeed looking, not exceptionally fancy in any sense, but rather spiffing nonetheless.
Check-Ch-Check-Check-Check it out.
In other un-music related stuff:
TELETEXT ARE DISAPPEARING!!!!!!!!!
This may perhaps seem like an odd thing to mention, however, I know lots of useless facts about Teletext (the analogue version, obviously, who wants digital Teletext), for example, one of my personal favourite things, they have a "reveal a picture a day" advent calendar at Christmas, alongside numerous other things for which my housemates seem to take great pleasure in laughing at me because of this 'knowledge'.
RIP Teletext, you will be sorely missed.
On a more cheery note:
x
I have spent the last number of hours playing with MySpace 2.0. I thought I'd take advantage of the working computer and sort it out, and I am quite proud of myself, not that I managed any of the codes myself, they were of course all stolen from various other sites, and the edit playlist option doesn't seem to be working at the moment (which was really the main reason I decided to do it), but my MySpazz is indeed looking, not exceptionally fancy in any sense, but rather spiffing nonetheless.
Check-Ch-Check-Check-Check it out.
In other un-music related stuff:
TELETEXT ARE DISAPPEARING!!!!!!!!!
This may perhaps seem like an odd thing to mention, however, I know lots of useless facts about Teletext (the analogue version, obviously, who wants digital Teletext), for example, one of my personal favourite things, they have a "reveal a picture a day" advent calendar at Christmas, alongside numerous other things for which my housemates seem to take great pleasure in laughing at me because of this 'knowledge'.
RIP Teletext, you will be sorely missed.
On a more cheery note:
x
Sunday 12 July 2009
Wednesday 8 July 2009
Boys & Girls
Martin Solveig ft Dragonette - Boys & Girls.
Amazing clothes (thanks to one Mr Jean Paul Gaultier), amazing dance moves, and not a half bad track to go with it!
x
Tuesday 7 July 2009
My love for this band need not be mentioned any more, at least not to anyone who's been around me in the last couple of months.
Dirty, sexy rock n roll.
And then Pitchfork go and post two new videos...
And while I'm at it, check these out:
How exciting...
AND!
In more Jack White never-stops-working-related-news, Third Man launch a subscription service.
x
Dirty, sexy rock n roll.
And then Pitchfork go and post two new videos...
And while I'm at it, check these out:
How exciting...
AND!
In more Jack White never-stops-working-related-news, Third Man launch a subscription service.
x
Spotify has been RAPED by my good self today.
This is what happens when the iPod decides it dislikes you.
So I felt the need to share the worthwhile experiences.
Currently listening to - Discovery.
Discovery being Vampire Weekend's keyboardist Rostam Batmanglij and Ra Ra Riot's lead singer Wes Miles.
The album, 'LP' takes using synths to a whole new level, and from the sounds of it they've had fun on production duties...
Included on the album is a Discovery-ed version of Ra Ra Riot's album track 'Can You Tell', oh-so-cleverly re-titled 'Can You Discover?', and, seeming very fitting (or not-so dependent on your view) given the day that's in it, a cover of Jackson 5's (oh yes) 'I Want You Back'.
Now, I was quite a fan of this little pairing's efforts, and the album, in places at least, is enough to make you get up and have a dance. But, the synths get a little bit too much sometimes...
Verdict: Worth I listen, but one to be kept on shuffle...
(And no, I'm not watching Jacko's funeral...)
x
This is what happens when the iPod decides it dislikes you.
So I felt the need to share the worthwhile experiences.
Currently listening to - Discovery.
Discovery being Vampire Weekend's keyboardist Rostam Batmanglij and Ra Ra Riot's lead singer Wes Miles.
The album, 'LP' takes using synths to a whole new level, and from the sounds of it they've had fun on production duties...
Included on the album is a Discovery-ed version of Ra Ra Riot's album track 'Can You Tell', oh-so-cleverly re-titled 'Can You Discover?', and, seeming very fitting (or not-so dependent on your view) given the day that's in it, a cover of Jackson 5's (oh yes) 'I Want You Back'.
Now, I was quite a fan of this little pairing's efforts, and the album, in places at least, is enough to make you get up and have a dance. But, the synths get a little bit too much sometimes...
Verdict: Worth I listen, but one to be kept on shuffle...
(And no, I'm not watching Jacko's funeral...)
x
Monday 29 June 2009
Reach for the... Beach? Zoo?!
My my, I've been slacking on this front for a wee while.
I have my excuses.
Beach Break being one of the main.
The other? Packing my life into boxes in preparation for becoming a real life human being. As opposed to a student.
But back to Beach Break.
After some irritable locals from my home-county deciding they aren't fans of people having fun, Beach Break Live was swiftly moved from St Agnes, Cornwall, to Port Lympne, Kent.
We punters were minus a beach, but plus a zoo. Which I must say was mighty impressive. Especially due to the abundance of monkeys.
We were however still surrounded by 9,994 other like-minded students, which, combined with copious amounts of alcoholic substances (obviously, we are students after all) and very little sleep, made for an entertaining week to say the least.
The show certainly did go on, with Friendly Fires, Ladyhawke and the wonderful Mr Rascal keeping the crowds entertained. Dizzee was a personal highlight, due to me being dragged, initially against my will, further and further into the mass of the crowd ending up a few rows from the front, having asing scream along to his version of That's Not My Name (ala Live Lounge), Paper Planes, Fix Up Look Sharp, and, of course, Bonkers, and getting soaked by unnecessarily huge water canons.
And, thanks to me being a student rep, this was all free. And I made a tenner on ticket sales. AND I got free Pimms in the zoo's manor house.
What's not to love?
Hopefully this is a sign of the festival season to come...
Go have a looksee on Daily Music Guide for a slightly more comprehensive insight, and while you're at it, check out their gallery.
And while we're on the subject of link-clicking, go visit my friend Jo over here at her blog, she went VIP-ing it up for the week in order to get some goss from the bands...
Laters kids
x
I have my excuses.
Beach Break being one of the main.
The other? Packing my life into boxes in preparation for becoming a real life human being. As opposed to a student.
But back to Beach Break.
After some irritable locals from my home-county deciding they aren't fans of people having fun, Beach Break Live was swiftly moved from St Agnes, Cornwall, to Port Lympne, Kent.
We punters were minus a beach, but plus a zoo. Which I must say was mighty impressive. Especially due to the abundance of monkeys.
We were however still surrounded by 9,994 other like-minded students, which, combined with copious amounts of alcoholic substances (obviously, we are students after all) and very little sleep, made for an entertaining week to say the least.
The show certainly did go on, with Friendly Fires, Ladyhawke and the wonderful Mr Rascal keeping the crowds entertained. Dizzee was a personal highlight, due to me being dragged, initially against my will, further and further into the mass of the crowd ending up a few rows from the front, having a
And, thanks to me being a student rep, this was all free. And I made a tenner on ticket sales. AND I got free Pimms in the zoo's manor house.
What's not to love?
Hopefully this is a sign of the festival season to come...
Go have a looksee on Daily Music Guide for a slightly more comprehensive insight, and while you're at it, check out their gallery.
And while we're on the subject of link-clicking, go visit my friend Jo over here at her blog, she went VIP-ing it up for the week in order to get some goss from the bands...
Laters kids
x
Wednesday 10 June 2009
"How could I forget how good this song/album is?!"
Slight change to the title today, insert 'band' as well.
The Shins.
WHY had I forgotten about them?
Although maybe that is one of their charms, you forget about them, and rekindle your love as SOON as you press play months and months and months later...
x
The Shins.
WHY had I forgotten about them?
Although maybe that is one of their charms, you forget about them, and rekindle your love as SOON as you press play months and months and months later...
x
Tuesday 9 June 2009
New Music is the Cause of a Large Portion of my Current Debt
Patrick Wolf, Kasabian, Little Boots, all in a week.
And soon this will have to be added to the list, this being the OFFICIAL video, rather than the one I posted a few weeks back:
Now, on with the job hunt to pay for all this...
x
And soon this will have to be added to the list, this being the OFFICIAL video, rather than the one I posted a few weeks back:
Now, on with the job hunt to pay for all this...
x
Monday 8 June 2009
In the Post
The title lies a *little* bit, I got this in the post on Saturday morning, even though I wasn't supposed to receive it until today (thank you Amazon).
It is, of course, the special edition of Kasabian's 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum'.
And I must say, it does not fail to impress.
I am a massive Kasabian fan, so my opinion may be a little bit biased. But following from where they left off with 'Empire', this is dirty, filthy, and makes me want to drink whiskey.
'Thick as Thieves' sounds as though it wouldn't go amiss in twisted Victorian circus. I can picture the video now - Tom, blackened teeth, in a top hat, spinning a cane, strutting down a street while peasant children lurk in alleyways... Think watching Oliver Twist on a bad trip...
And of course, 'Fire', the most recent single, still sounds amazing, especially at full volume.
Now, I have seen Kasabian on many an occasion, and have always been blown away. One gig of note was at Dublin Castle (actually in DUBLIN, not the Camden venue, unfortunately) where this was taken:
Does this need a caption?
I think not.
And I'm off to see them again in a few weeks here, a family outing, avec my lil bro and my mum, also both massive fans, who'd have thought it, 'Kasabian - Fun for all the family' eh?
I reckon a trip to Camden is in order too, just to be vain and pose in front of this:
And maybepinch have a drink out of a 'West Ryder' glass...
x
It is, of course, the special edition of Kasabian's 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum'.
And I must say, it does not fail to impress.
I am a massive Kasabian fan, so my opinion may be a little bit biased. But following from where they left off with 'Empire', this is dirty, filthy, and makes me want to drink whiskey.
'Thick as Thieves' sounds as though it wouldn't go amiss in twisted Victorian circus. I can picture the video now - Tom, blackened teeth, in a top hat, spinning a cane, strutting down a street while peasant children lurk in alleyways... Think watching Oliver Twist on a bad trip...
And of course, 'Fire', the most recent single, still sounds amazing, especially at full volume.
Now, I have seen Kasabian on many an occasion, and have always been blown away. One gig of note was at Dublin Castle (actually in DUBLIN, not the Camden venue, unfortunately) where this was taken:
Does this need a caption?
I think not.
And I'm off to see them again in a few weeks here, a family outing, avec my lil bro and my mum, also both massive fans, who'd have thought it, 'Kasabian - Fun for all the family' eh?
I reckon a trip to Camden is in order too, just to be vain and pose in front of this:
And maybe
x
Saturday 6 June 2009
"How could I forget how good this song/album is?!"...
It's back, I remembered it, hooray for me!
Number three in this series:
Jape - Floating
Richie Egan, I salute you.
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Number three in this series:
Jape - Floating
Richie Egan, I salute you.
x
Doing it for the Kids
I know this is typical internet fodder at the moment, but everyone needs to see this video... It's just so... Cruel/horrible/weird/wonderful/kind of funny...
And if it didn't form part of the soundtrack to your summer (albeit LAST summer), first off, you must have been living under some sort of rock and should feel ashamed of yourself, and secondly, this gives you the chance to make it so THIS summer:
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And if it didn't form part of the soundtrack to your summer (albeit LAST summer), first off, you must have been living under some sort of rock and should feel ashamed of yourself, and secondly, this gives you the chance to make it so THIS summer:
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In the Post: Pt 1
I am officially no longer a student.
This is a very scary thought in my mind.
So, in 'honour' of this, the last few weeks have been spent in a bit of a drunken, celebratory haze, hence the lack of presence. This came to an end last week when the painful goodbyes to my partners in crime began...
I'll get back to you on that note when I get my results in a few weeks... Eeeek...
However, curing my blues this week have been a number of things, namely goodies which have been arriving through the post, firstly:
Patrick Wolf - The Bachelor
I think by this stage my love for Mr Wolf need not be mentioned.
This album, number 982 of 2000, funded by Bandstocks arrived on my doorstep mid-week.
Investors collectively raised £100,000 through £10 shares which are being put to use by Patrick and his team in the same way an advance from a record company would be. However, unlike typical record deals, this method allows artists full creative control and eliminates restrictions which typical deals sometimes impose.
(Proof of my investment can be seen on the second page of Bandstocks credits, first name, sixth row down, 'fifitxbl' ;) )
The album was initially intended to be released as the double album 'Battle'.
'The Bachelor' firstly signifying Patrick's desperation experienced following 'The Magic Position' era, where he was under Universal's control, attempting to be made into a superpopstar, and night after night singing about happiness and emotions which were in no way reflecting his personal life at the time. 'The Conqueror' following this, telling the story of his defeat of these personal demons after he met his now-partner and found hope.
Deciding the release of a double album depicting so much might be a little too intense, it was decided the two were to be released separately.
Throughout 'The Bachelor' Wolf, along with some help from narrator Tilda Swinton, drags you along his journey of the past few years, constantly reaffirming his bachelor status, telling tales of desperation ('Who Will'), the pain of suicide ('The Sun is Often Out') and calling for a 'Revolution' (soon-to-be-single 'Hard Times'). All to the sounds of Patrick's character vocals, pianos, strings, organs and just a tad more electronics thanks to Alec Empire's collaboration. The theme up to this point is unavoidable, but with closing tracks 'Battle' and 'The Messenger', with his Tribe behind him, ready to fight, and a new found personal happiness, Patrick Wolf certifies himself, and his tribe, as a force to be reckoned with, proving the naysayers, within himself and the real world, wrong, and ultimately establishing the links to the second instalment of his 'Battle' - 'The Conqueror'.
Buy the CD, check out the artwork, listen to the album, over and over (in some sort of picturesque setting if possible), follow the story... Then get back to me and try to tell me it's not beautiful.
x
This is a very scary thought in my mind.
So, in 'honour' of this, the last few weeks have been spent in a bit of a drunken, celebratory haze, hence the lack of presence. This came to an end last week when the painful goodbyes to my partners in crime began...
I'll get back to you on that note when I get my results in a few weeks... Eeeek...
However, curing my blues this week have been a number of things, namely goodies which have been arriving through the post, firstly:
Patrick Wolf - The Bachelor
I think by this stage my love for Mr Wolf need not be mentioned.
This album, number 982 of 2000, funded by Bandstocks arrived on my doorstep mid-week.
Investors collectively raised £100,000 through £10 shares which are being put to use by Patrick and his team in the same way an advance from a record company would be. However, unlike typical record deals, this method allows artists full creative control and eliminates restrictions which typical deals sometimes impose.
(Proof of my investment can be seen on the second page of Bandstocks credits, first name, sixth row down, 'fifitxbl' ;) )
The album was initially intended to be released as the double album 'Battle'.
'The Bachelor' firstly signifying Patrick's desperation experienced following 'The Magic Position' era, where he was under Universal's control, attempting to be made into a superpopstar, and night after night singing about happiness and emotions which were in no way reflecting his personal life at the time. 'The Conqueror' following this, telling the story of his defeat of these personal demons after he met his now-partner and found hope.
Deciding the release of a double album depicting so much might be a little too intense, it was decided the two were to be released separately.
Throughout 'The Bachelor' Wolf, along with some help from narrator Tilda Swinton, drags you along his journey of the past few years, constantly reaffirming his bachelor status, telling tales of desperation ('Who Will'), the pain of suicide ('The Sun is Often Out') and calling for a 'Revolution' (soon-to-be-single 'Hard Times'). All to the sounds of Patrick's character vocals, pianos, strings, organs and just a tad more electronics thanks to Alec Empire's collaboration. The theme up to this point is unavoidable, but with closing tracks 'Battle' and 'The Messenger', with his Tribe behind him, ready to fight, and a new found personal happiness, Patrick Wolf certifies himself, and his tribe, as a force to be reckoned with, proving the naysayers, within himself and the real world, wrong, and ultimately establishing the links to the second instalment of his 'Battle' - 'The Conqueror'.
Buy the CD, check out the artwork, listen to the album, over and over (in some sort of picturesque setting if possible), follow the story... Then get back to me and try to tell me it's not beautiful.
x
Tuesday 19 May 2009
Let's go out and find some trouble
After months of protesting my dislike for a certain Mr Jamie T, I one day found myself singing Sheila in my head.
Over and over and over and over.
This continued for a number weeks.
It wouldn't go away. No matter how hard I tried.
A friend then donated 'Panic Prevention' to me.
This firstly - saved my sanity, and secondly - despite all my previous efforts, turned me into fan, with the album being on repeat, constantly, for MONTHS.
So obviously, the boy got sommat going on....
(Why I felt the need for the above statement I do not know, please don't judge me)
Now, we have new Jamie T. In the form of 'Sticks n Stones'.
First performed at last year's V, the EP of the same name is set for release on June 29th, preceding the second album...
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Over and over and over and over.
This continued for a number weeks.
It wouldn't go away. No matter how hard I tried.
A friend then donated 'Panic Prevention' to me.
This firstly - saved my sanity, and secondly - despite all my previous efforts, turned me into fan, with the album being on repeat, constantly, for MONTHS.
So obviously, the boy got sommat going on....
(Why I felt the need for the above statement I do not know, please don't judge me)
Now, we have new Jamie T. In the form of 'Sticks n Stones'.
First performed at last year's V, the EP of the same name is set for release on June 29th, preceding the second album...
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Sunday 17 May 2009
84 Robot House went to the Steam Fair...
Looks innocent enough yeah?
WRONG.
I have some lovely looking blue bruised arms from this.
And very little remaining dignity, thanks to the wind and my choice of dress.
It was quite a lot of fun altogether though, taking into account some very low fireworks, a carousel, organs, candy floss and general uni-family-outing-ness.
I'd definitely recommend.
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Monday 11 May 2009
How unbelievably sexy is this cover:
A sign of things to come no doubt...
The Dead Weather (that is Jack White and Allison Mosshart's wonderfully filthy side project in case you didn't know, and if you didn't, you should be ashamed of yourself) are due to release their debut album on 13th July, and alongside that info they've released details of a North American tour, and some one of shows around the world, including The Forum in London on 24th June...
I personally think I need to get on this case... Exciting...
x
A sign of things to come no doubt...
The Dead Weather (that is Jack White and Allison Mosshart's wonderfully filthy side project in case you didn't know, and if you didn't, you should be ashamed of yourself) are due to release their debut album on 13th July, and alongside that info they've released details of a North American tour, and some one of shows around the world, including The Forum in London on 24th June...
I personally think I need to get on this case... Exciting...
x
Monday 4 May 2009
Last night I had a dream about everybody here...
On the "How could I forget how good this is?!" buzz, I feel an overwhelming urge to mention Tom Vek.
I also feel quite ashamed of myself, given the fact that I have not, as of yet, mentioned him already.
I will proceed to hang my head in shame.
(The 'forgot' how good he is is a wee bit of a lie, he's always in the back of my head somewhere, I just feel a little disappointed that I didn't put the album on sooner everytime I listen to it)
We Have Sound, his debut album appeared, around this time of year, in 2005. It reminds me of studying for exams, being in the front seat of my Dad's van, Oxegen 2005 with my best friend and my mum, sunburn, polka dot headbands, those 'aquadrop' sweets that I consumed as an alternative to water in the blistering hit of said festival and sneakily listening to the album through the earphones of my Nokia whatevermodelitwasthatlookedlikeanNGagebutwasn't that was one of the first phones with an MP3 player in the back of Geography class.
The single 'I Aint Saying My Goodbyes' was also possibly the first single I bought on vinyl. It's red and very very pretty. It was purchased in Tower Records whilst visiting Dublin with my Mum... I didn't have a record player, I just liked the thought of owning it on vinyl.
I remember being on a night out once, and one of my friends came running up to me when it was playing. Turned out Ed from Editors was DJing. I went to
Getting back to the point, if you haven't heard of, or ever listened to Tom Vek, you should do yourself a favour and Click here, here, and here.
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Patrick Wolf @ Selfridges
I don't think my love for Patrick Wolf needs to be explained as an introduction to this, just check the amount of tags relating to him.
So yes, I get somewhat excited about him.
This led me to taking a very hungover trip into London on Friday to see him perform at Selfridges as part of their 100th birthday celebration "Big Yellow Festival".
"DJ Yellow" kicked things off on the tiny stage (in view of the Cath Kidson concession where all I wanted to do was buy even more patterned re-usable shopping bags to add to my collection), one of the last tracks he played? "Shoes" by Tiga. Which made me quite the happy little bunny.
Mr Wolf arrived on stage, clad in cut-off leather pants (the flies of which remained open for a large proportion of the performance... Accidentally of course...), knee-high black and white socks, Doc-Martin esque boots, black "straight jacket" style shirt with leather braces hinting at a penchant for S&M, bleached hair everywhere.
Over the course of the performance, the crowd (including some highly bemused shoppers) were treated to some 'more illuminated than usual' versions of tracks from his soon-to-be-released album 'The Bachelor', including 'The Vulture' and upcoming single 'Hard Times', alongside some 'Magic Position' era singles 'Accident & Emergency' and, a personal favourite, 'Bluebells'. Throughout which he proceeded to grab a young boy by the hair, grind his rear in the face of a front-row spectator, climb and subsequently throw himself from the modest PA system and use a member-of-the-crowd's seemingly precious Franz Ferdinand plectrum.
Patrick was on top form with the banter, conversing with the crowd in-between tracks, endorsing shoplifting and offering the thought that his music is more suited for "that time when all the lights in your house have gone", which made a welcome change from the last time I saw him at the tail-end of 'The Magic Position' tour.
The set ended with a rendition of Happy Birthday dedicated to his father for his 60th birthday, with a bit of Lady GaGa thrown in for good measure. Obviously.
Have a look at some of the videos that are floating around YouTube.
x
So yes, I get somewhat excited about him.
This led me to taking a very hungover trip into London on Friday to see him perform at Selfridges as part of their 100th birthday celebration "Big Yellow Festival".
"DJ Yellow" kicked things off on the tiny stage (in view of the Cath Kidson concession where all I wanted to do was buy even more patterned re-usable shopping bags to add to my collection), one of the last tracks he played? "Shoes" by Tiga. Which made me quite the happy little bunny.
Mr Wolf arrived on stage, clad in cut-off leather pants (the flies of which remained open for a large proportion of the performance... Accidentally of course...), knee-high black and white socks, Doc-Martin esque boots, black "straight jacket" style shirt with leather braces hinting at a penchant for S&M, bleached hair everywhere.
Over the course of the performance, the crowd (including some highly bemused shoppers) were treated to some 'more illuminated than usual' versions of tracks from his soon-to-be-released album 'The Bachelor', including 'The Vulture' and upcoming single 'Hard Times', alongside some 'Magic Position' era singles 'Accident & Emergency' and, a personal favourite, 'Bluebells'. Throughout which he proceeded to grab a young boy by the hair, grind his rear in the face of a front-row spectator, climb and subsequently throw himself from the modest PA system and use a member-of-the-crowd's seemingly precious Franz Ferdinand plectrum.
Patrick was on top form with the banter, conversing with the crowd in-between tracks, endorsing shoplifting and offering the thought that his music is more suited for "that time when all the lights in your house have gone", which made a welcome change from the last time I saw him at the tail-end of 'The Magic Position' tour.
The set ended with a rendition of Happy Birthday dedicated to his father for his 60th birthday, with a bit of Lady GaGa thrown in for good measure. Obviously.
Have a look at some of the videos that are floating around YouTube.
x
How many bikes can you fit in a Mini Cooper?
One.
With the aid of a bit of string.
This is what happens when you go to a car-boot sale with a friend with a bike fetish.
Be warned kids.
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With the aid of a bit of string.
This is what happens when you go to a car-boot sale with a friend with a bike fetish.
Be warned kids.
x
"How could I forget how good this song/album is?!"
An often considered thought when my iPod decides to play something I - haven't heard for a long time/listened to too much for a certain period of time/reminds me too much of certain things and so on.
And I know for a fact I'm not the only one.
Recently, this has included:
Tullycraft - Twee
The National - Alligator. This reminds me of when I first started work in HMV in Dublin, and all the old crew. Listening to it out of that context however has made it wondrously more fantastic.
Personal highlights:
Secret Meeting
Karen
Abel
As well as the entire rest of the album.
Potential regular feature perhaps? Never know, this might be as successful as my attempt at a regular "my pretend A&R department - MySpace"...
If you're lucky.
x
And I know for a fact I'm not the only one.
Recently, this has included:
Tullycraft - Twee
The National - Alligator. This reminds me of when I first started work in HMV in Dublin, and all the old crew. Listening to it out of that context however has made it wondrously more fantastic.
Personal highlights:
Secret Meeting
Karen
Abel
As well as the entire rest of the album.
Potential regular feature perhaps? Never know, this might be as successful as my attempt at a regular "my pretend A&R department - MySpace"...
If you're lucky.
x
Saturday 25 April 2009
Thursday 23 April 2009
West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum
Yes, the title is a mouth and half full.
Yes, it sounds as though a few words have been plucked from obscurity to form this title.
Yes, Tom needs a haircut (Back to the old days please thank you).
Yes, I am looking forward to a nice family outing when I go and see them at the Eden Sessions (Myself, my Mum and my little Brother dontcha know)
YES, I love the cover of the new album:
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Yes, it sounds as though a few words have been plucked from obscurity to form this title.
Yes, Tom needs a haircut (Back to the old days please thank you).
Yes, I am looking forward to a nice family outing when I go and see them at the Eden Sessions (Myself, my Mum and my little Brother dontcha know)
YES, I love the cover of the new album:
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Tuesday 21 April 2009
It's The Sound Of My Shoes
I think this is awesome.
'This' being Tiga's new single 'Shoes'.
Jump over to RCRD LBL to have a listen.
Camptastic.
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Starting Tomorrow This Post will be Irrelevant
See that picture down the page?
Yea, that one.
Of Little Boots and my friend and I...
It's in the NME.
Because I sent it in obviously, in order to make all my 16 year old dreams come true.
That cheered me up a little bit when I woke up last Thursday to find the news on my Facebook...
Apart from that, I'm a bit slow on the old news at the mo, this is for a number of reasons:
1 - I've been at home visiting the family for the last few days,
and
2 - I'm supposed to be writing a disseration. Whilst staring out the window at the fabulous weather feeling extremely sorry for myself...
*Le sigh*
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Yea, that one.
Of Little Boots and my friend and I...
It's in the NME.
Because I sent it in obviously, in order to make all my 16 year old dreams come true.
That cheered me up a little bit when I woke up last Thursday to find the news on my Facebook...
Apart from that, I'm a bit slow on the old news at the mo, this is for a number of reasons:
1 - I've been at home visiting the family for the last few days,
and
2 - I'm supposed to be writing a disseration. Whilst staring out the window at the fabulous weather feeling extremely sorry for myself...
*Le sigh*
x
Wednesday 15 April 2009
Me, get excited about things?? NEVER!
I've been to Electric Picnic three times before, and I can safely say it is wondrous...
So much... Madness, for want of a better word...
The last time was 2007, we stayed up all night, wandering the forests where there were loads of things hiding, in the Lost Vagueness tent, watching films in the cinema tent, including The Wizard of Oz. Synced to Pink Floyd. It was bizarre...
In the day it was equally as weird... Not to mention the music. Of course. Although I did miss Yeah Yeah Yeahs in 2006, for which I will never forgive a certain ex-partner. But despite that, it is amazing, and I would recommend ANYONE to go...
My reusable pint cup from 2007 is still in use... And oh how I love it so.
ENOUGH! I'm off to book some flights...
x
Thursday 9 April 2009
No Time Wasted
Literally, within a matter of minutes of this being broadcast, it's online.
Bat For Lashes Radio One Live Lounge Session.
She's so lovely.... And the cover's cool... As is that tinkly little Marxophone instrument which is being played (which I have only just discovered what it's called/is)
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Bat For Lashes Radio One Live Lounge Session.
She's so lovely.... And the cover's cool... As is that tinkly little Marxophone instrument which is being played (which I have only just discovered what it's called/is)
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Tuesday 7 April 2009
(Pointless post in an attempt to cure my distraction)
..Although I highly doubt this will work...
I have approximately 45% of my dissertation written up to now.
However, I only have approximately 21 days to complete the final 55%.
(The above statement is indeed a scare tactic, directed at myself... Time will only tell if this works....)
But surprise surprise, the internet serves as a wonderful tool of distraction. Especially when info you have to research is, as in my case, music related...
Also adding to such distraction is the arrival of the new Bat For Lashes album 'Two Suns'.
In some senses related to my dissertation research, I have discovered this These New Puritans remix of Patrick Wolf's 'Vulture' which is keeping me entertained somewhat...
Twitter keeps overloading, as much as I like the 'whale-being-lifted' illustration that pops up when this happens, it's making me somewhat upset... I should take it as a sign...
x
I have approximately 45% of my dissertation written up to now.
However, I only have approximately 21 days to complete the final 55%.
(The above statement is indeed a scare tactic, directed at myself... Time will only tell if this works....)
But surprise surprise, the internet serves as a wonderful tool of distraction. Especially when info you have to research is, as in my case, music related...
Also adding to such distraction is the arrival of the new Bat For Lashes album 'Two Suns'.
In some senses related to my dissertation research, I have discovered this These New Puritans remix of Patrick Wolf's 'Vulture' which is keeping me entertained somewhat...
Twitter keeps overloading, as much as I like the 'whale-being-lifted' illustration that pops up when this happens, it's making me somewhat upset... I should take it as a sign...
x
Sunday 5 April 2009
So, Little Boots did most definitely come and visit our 'humble' SU.
And it was ever so fabulous.
So much so I don't think I've stopped talked about it for the last three days...
I haven't looked forward to a gig like I did that one for a LONG time... Seriously, I'd been excited about it since I found out before Christmas... And I was certainly not disappointed.
And as promised, here are some rubbish photos, taken by a short girl, in the middle of the crowd, with plenty of other people's hands/faces/limbs included....
Tenorion face
I got a shout out because of my dress, which lead to my friend and I (along with half of the crowd) harassing the lovely lady after the gig...
We are clearly meant to be best friends.
x
And it was ever so fabulous.
So much so I don't think I've stopped talked about it for the last three days...
I haven't looked forward to a gig like I did that one for a LONG time... Seriously, I'd been excited about it since I found out before Christmas... And I was certainly not disappointed.
And as promised, here are some rubbish photos, taken by a short girl, in the middle of the crowd, with plenty of other people's hands/faces/limbs included....
Tenorion face
I got a shout out because of my dress, which lead to my friend and I (along with half of the crowd) harassing the lovely lady after the gig...
We are clearly meant to be best friends.
x
In anticipation of tomorrow...
Here is the making of 'Daniel' by the wonderful Natasha Khan...
I am very excited for my delivery of the new album tomorrow...
As well as that of Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and this is the final instalment of the SNAKESWEAT trilogy, featuring the one and only Ms Karen O...
Oooo err.
x
I am very excited for my delivery of the new album tomorrow...
As well as that of Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and this is the final instalment of the SNAKESWEAT trilogy, featuring the one and only Ms Karen O...
Oooo err.
x
Thursday 2 April 2009
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Little Boots is coming to visit my SU tonight...
I am very excited.
Such excitement has lead me to t'internet stalking a little bit more than usual.
She's in the uni library...
(Thank you Twitter)
Please be prepared for a rambling post about how good it was/some pictures taken by a short girl in the middle of crowd - translation - 'rubbish photos' some time after tomorrow...
x
I am very excited.
Such excitement has lead me to t'internet stalking a little bit more than usual.
She's in the uni library...
(Thank you Twitter)
Please be prepared for a rambling post about how good it was/some pictures taken by a short girl in the middle of crowd - translation - 'rubbish photos' some time after tomorrow...
x
Monday 30 March 2009
Blame it on the birthdays...
My only excuse for the lack of attention I've been paying here is because of birthdays.
There are far too many in March I've decided. Excluding my own of course.
So, over the past week, music which has caused some sort of stir in my world would be:
Patrick Wolf - The Vulture: I think this goes without saying really, I have become a wee bit addicted to the song/video.
Bat For Lashes - Daniel: First single from the new album 'Two Suns' released this coming Monday. I may be a little bit excited...
Yeah Yeah Yeahs: As above, new abum. Monday. Excited? YES.
Discovery: Ra Ra Riot and Vampire Weekend members team up to make some shiny new music. Check it.
Little Boots: I may be getting excitement shakes due to the fact that this wonderful little lady is playing at my SU this week... Eeeeeeee!
Urban Water Slide - Ok, so blatant plug for my mates, but, this is pretty cool, go vote vote vote thank you please!
McFly: Just because my housemates and I may have gotten in a little bit of trouble singing/dancing to them quite late in the night/early in the morning last week... All in the name of fun though eh? No? Oh....
x
There are far too many in March I've decided. Excluding my own of course.
So, over the past week, music which has caused some sort of stir in my world would be:
Patrick Wolf - The Vulture: I think this goes without saying really, I have become a wee bit addicted to the song/video.
Bat For Lashes - Daniel: First single from the new album 'Two Suns' released this coming Monday. I may be a little bit excited...
Yeah Yeah Yeahs: As above, new abum. Monday. Excited? YES.
Discovery: Ra Ra Riot and Vampire Weekend members team up to make some shiny new music. Check it.
Little Boots: I may be getting excitement shakes due to the fact that this wonderful little lady is playing at my SU this week... Eeeeeeee!
Urban Water Slide - Ok, so blatant plug for my mates, but, this is pretty cool, go vote vote vote thank you please!
McFly: Just because my housemates and I may have gotten in a little bit of trouble singing/dancing to them quite late in the night/early in the morning last week... All in the name of fun though eh? No? Oh....
x
Beach Break Live
If anyone's an avid viewer of Dragon's Den, you may remember the couple who featured, looking for an investment in a Cornish music festival.
Beach Break Live is that festival.
Taking place on 16th to 19th June this year, it promises to be a whole load of fun.
With Dizzee Rascal, Mystery Jets, The Whip, Chase and Status, jammed amongst 10,000 students, a beach, the world's biggest pyjama party, "The Mighty Cornish Games", The Moustache Bar, and plenty of other excitement, for £84 you can't really go wrong can you??!
Check Beach Break Live for more info, and get tickets here.
x
Beach Break Live is that festival.
Taking place on 16th to 19th June this year, it promises to be a whole load of fun.
With Dizzee Rascal, Mystery Jets, The Whip, Chase and Status, jammed amongst 10,000 students, a beach, the world's biggest pyjama party, "The Mighty Cornish Games", The Moustache Bar, and plenty of other excitement, for £84 you can't really go wrong can you??!
Check Beach Break Live for more info, and get tickets here.
x
Monday 23 March 2009
Wednesday 18 March 2009
Oh Patrick, you're spoiling us....
LATE NIGHT MYSPACE EXCLUSIVE : PATRICK WOLF NEW VIDEO ‘VULTURE’
The video for Patrick Wolf’s new single ‘Vulture’ will be shown as a late night exclusive on MySpace UK this Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th March, 9pm-4am.
Deemed too provocative for even late night TV, MySpace are promoting the video as an exclusive post watershed in the late night hours, due to its graphic content.
Filmed in black & white, photographic style, it shows an enraptured, semi naked Patrick writhing in a full S&M, bondage outfit. The controversial scenes are intercut with those of Patrick as the leather clad ‘Vulture’ and as an unmasked icon. Inspired by experiences Patrick gained and suffered on the American leg of the 2007 'Magic Position' tour, the video perfectly depicts these experiences, which Patrick describes as ‘getting involved in some dodgy satanic sex games and exploring the many dark sides of Los Angeles’.
Get ready to get hot under the (dog) collar...
The video was directed by Patrick himself in collaboration with Rory Broadfoot, a groundbreaking Director of Photography who works regularly with legendary Photographer Rankin.
The beautiful leather and bondage wear was provided by the visionary avant garde designers “Fleet Ilya” and the sculptural vulture cape was commissioned especially by Patrick as part of “The Bachelor” wardrobe from acclaimed up and coming designer ”Ada Zanditon”
Go to www.myspace.com .. at 9pm on Wednesday to be the first to see the video.
‘Vulture’ is released on April 20th 2009 on download and 7”.
www.patrickwolf.com
www.myspace.com/officialpatrickwolf"
Goly gosh I'm excited...
x
The video for Patrick Wolf’s new single ‘Vulture’ will be shown as a late night exclusive on MySpace UK this Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th March, 9pm-4am.
Deemed too provocative for even late night TV, MySpace are promoting the video as an exclusive post watershed in the late night hours, due to its graphic content.
Filmed in black & white, photographic style, it shows an enraptured, semi naked Patrick writhing in a full S&M, bondage outfit. The controversial scenes are intercut with those of Patrick as the leather clad ‘Vulture’ and as an unmasked icon. Inspired by experiences Patrick gained and suffered on the American leg of the 2007 'Magic Position' tour, the video perfectly depicts these experiences, which Patrick describes as ‘getting involved in some dodgy satanic sex games and exploring the many dark sides of Los Angeles’.
Get ready to get hot under the (dog) collar...
The video was directed by Patrick himself in collaboration with Rory Broadfoot, a groundbreaking Director of Photography who works regularly with legendary Photographer Rankin.
The beautiful leather and bondage wear was provided by the visionary avant garde designers “Fleet Ilya” and the sculptural vulture cape was commissioned especially by Patrick as part of “The Bachelor” wardrobe from acclaimed up and coming designer ”Ada Zanditon”
Go to www.myspace.com .. at 9pm on Wednesday to be the first to see the video.
‘Vulture’ is released on April 20th 2009 on download and 7”.
www.patrickwolf.com
www.myspace.com/officialpatrickwolf"
Goly gosh I'm excited...
x
Saturday 14 March 2009
Humour me, just for a second at least...
Awwwww Peter....
And yes, I am one of those people mentioned near the end.
Also from MSN:
x
And yes, I am one of those people mentioned near the end.
Also from MSN:
| by Colleen Last, MSN Celebrity Editor |
 |
| Rex |
| "They [the public] will be able to name 10 things about me or to do with me or someone I've been with before, but they'll never be able to name a song. And that is really quite sad… I’m off that kind of stuff. Complete abstinence is what they advocate - but the odd gin and tonic’s all right, isn’t it?” Pete Doherty tells The Sun he’s a changed man. The singer turned 30 on March 12." |
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Friday 13 March 2009
Get Your Leather On
Finaally, YouTube's giving the UK the pleasure of viewing the new Yeah Yeah Yeah's video.
Here's 'Zero', and Ms O is looking as WONDERFUL as ever.
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Here's 'Zero', and Ms O is looking as WONDERFUL as ever.
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Thursday 12 March 2009
I've just broken into a sweat
Alison Mosshart.
Jack White.
Together.
In The Dead Weather.
She wants to grab you by the hair....
Go ahead darling, go ahead...
Pitchfork have more info.
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Jack White.
Together.
In The Dead Weather.
She wants to grab you by the hair....
Go ahead darling, go ahead...
Pitchfork have more info.
x
Wednesday 11 March 2009
I've decided I should have a regular 'new additions to my MYSpace' feature on this here blog
And so here is the first.
I have a bit of a habit of letting my MySpace friend requests build up...
So today I decided to have a bit of trawl through and a clear out.
I like to consider this part of MySpace as my own little A&R department, of my record label that exists in my mind.
Who is worthy of my online friendship? Who isn't?
Who 'has the potential'? Who should give up and find a real job?
One thing I will say, as a matter of 'this is what I have learnt at college/uni' and also from a general 'I am an internet user and consumer of music' perspective, if you are a band, and have a MySpace page, PLEASE do not overload it with:
Taking my not-exactly-expert-but-arrogant-nonetheless advice WILL mean people are more inclined to look at you page.
Ahem.
Rant over.
And now, for those who made it through my elimination process:
Boy Crisis - made me dance in my seat. There's some nices noises in these tracks. Their profile pic is GROTTY. The background did make me a bit dizzy though.
The Areola Treat - Spot the Yeah Yeah Yeahs influence... Still, who am I to argue with dirty, girl-fronted rock and roll?
All Leather - This is just pure noisey filth. Noisey filth which makes me quite happy.
There are still a few, trapped in friend request limbo which as of yet I'm unsure of as well.
Which probably means I'll get bored of them being there and delete them in a few days in a "well, they're not going to have magically become AMAZING in a matter of a few days" mentality...
x
I have a bit of a habit of letting my MySpace friend requests build up...
So today I decided to have a bit of trawl through and a clear out.
I like to consider this part of MySpace as my own little A&R department, of my record label that exists in my mind.
Who is worthy of my online friendship? Who isn't?
Who 'has the potential'? Who should give up and find a real job?
One thing I will say, as a matter of 'this is what I have learnt at college/uni' and also from a general 'I am an internet user and consumer of music' perspective, if you are a band, and have a MySpace page, PLEASE do not overload it with:
- Embedded videos,
- Silly backgrounds,
- Pictures that stretch the page
- Rubbish font which you can't read,
- Bios which are far too long, trust me, people DO NOT read them,
- Songs with ridiculously long intros, this is BORING.
- Also, add a nice little personal message, s'all about the brownie points schweetie ;)
Taking my not-exactly-expert-but-arrogant-nonetheless advice WILL mean people are more inclined to look at you page.
Ahem.
Rant over.
And now, for those who made it through my elimination process:
Boy Crisis - made me dance in my seat. There's some nices noises in these tracks. Their profile pic is GROTTY. The background did make me a bit dizzy though.
The Areola Treat - Spot the Yeah Yeah Yeahs influence... Still, who am I to argue with dirty, girl-fronted rock and roll?
All Leather - This is just pure noisey filth. Noisey filth which makes me quite happy.
There are still a few, trapped in friend request limbo which as of yet I'm unsure of as well.
Which probably means I'll get bored of them being there and delete them in a few days in a "well, they're not going to have magically become AMAZING in a matter of a few days" mentality...
x
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