A glorious 24 degrees her in the capital...
I haven't been at work for over a month now, but with the savings on my son's nursery, the dole and the cash I (legally) make from tutoring, I reckon I'm up £1200 on the deal each month. Plus I get to play football and cricket with my son.
So what's been happening?
My 160Gb iPod is on the verge of being filled, thanks to recent raids on FreeAlbumsGalore and BigO.
I've also managed to convert all the Davros plays from this DVD box set. Superb stuff.
Plus all kinds of listening from what, in the impossibility of listening to Radcliffe/Maconie, are rapidly becoming my favourite shows - 'Where's the Skill in That?' and 'Freak Zone'.
Now it's 24 degress and I'm chilling out to Danny Baker, after having trousered 50 large for an hour of tutoring. Man, this is good.
Showing posts with label good day. Show all posts
Showing posts with label good day. Show all posts
Wednesday, 7 May 2008
Monday, 17 March 2008
Overnite Sensation
England levelled the series overnight, which put me in a better mood. I should be getting some news about the interview I went to a while ago, to see if I have a career still.
Some recent (free) acquisitions from various sampler sources. Remember, if you like any of this stuff, support the artists:
I Keep Faith - Billy Bragg, from an excellent Anti- sampler, to be found here. This track is from Mr Bragg's latest album, which will definitely be joining my collectoin soon...
Saturation (Unmastered) - John Frusciante. I'm not a great fan of RHCP, but this sampler of demoes is interesting,
Fallout (unmastered) - John Frusciante,
Dear Mr Fantasy - Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood, live, found at BigO.
Transliterator - DeVotchKa, this had a good review in 'The Independent' at the weekend, and the CD might be finding its way into my collection soon, if ths is anything to go by...
With The Wolf - Rainbow, from BigO; a bit muddy production on this rough mix, but very interesting,
Don't Lie To Me (Studio Rehearsal) - Big Star,
Come And Get It - Badfinger,
Comin' Home (A Light In The Black) - Rainbow,
Glad - Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood,
Then, some catching up with a huge backlog of 'Thinking Allowed' Podcasts on my walk from the station: Superheroes and Ribbons BBC Radio 4.
T - 4; M - 3.5; D - 3
Some recent (free) acquisitions from various sampler sources. Remember, if you like any of this stuff, support the artists:
I Keep Faith - Billy Bragg, from an excellent Anti- sampler, to be found here. This track is from Mr Bragg's latest album, which will definitely be joining my collectoin soon...
Saturation (Unmastered) - John Frusciante. I'm not a great fan of RHCP, but this sampler of demoes is interesting,
Fallout (unmastered) - John Frusciante,
Dear Mr Fantasy - Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood, live, found at BigO.
Transliterator - DeVotchKa, this had a good review in 'The Independent' at the weekend, and the CD might be finding its way into my collection soon, if ths is anything to go by...
With The Wolf - Rainbow, from BigO; a bit muddy production on this rough mix, but very interesting,
Don't Lie To Me (Studio Rehearsal) - Big Star,
Come And Get It - Badfinger,
Comin' Home (A Light In The Black) - Rainbow,
Glad - Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood,
Then, some catching up with a huge backlog of 'Thinking Allowed' Podcasts on my walk from the station: Superheroes and Ribbons BBC Radio 4.
T - 4; M - 3.5; D - 3
Thursday, 28 February 2008
Please Stop Staring At Me
OK, some self-regarding nonsense for a while...
Following the Comment on the previous post 'All The Best Freaks Are Here', by Stuart Maconie, here are some expanded thoughts on the edition of the 'Freak Zone' Podcast that I heard. Please feel free to scatter 'IMO' liberally throughout this...
I stumbled upon this 'cast on iTunes while looking for something else. As I said, I rarely listen to DAB radio (I only have one, and that's in the kitchen, and other family members don't share much of my music taste), so was pleased to see this on offer, particularly with the title of "FreakZone: Brazilian Grooves and Bert Jansch 24 Feb 08".
With a running time of 19:33, and with the music rights issue, it was fairly obvious that music would be presented in brief extracts (although I have heard full radio shows before as Podcasts, contrary to what Mr Maconie suggests - perhaps they simply stumped up the royalties).
My main problem was that the Podcast didn't stand up as a separate entity. It was clearly edited from the full show (which I haven't heard yet) and came across as confusing, repetitive and shallow, and, most importantly of all, didn't do justice to the album under consideration. Three 30 second bits of tracks linked by some (but not enough) biographical detail - why no mention of Danny Thompson, given the earlier mention of The Pentangle? - which was repetitive, and seemingly sourced exclusively from Wikipedia.
I didn't like the dedication of less than 5 minutes to this album, followed by 13 minutes of Professor Justin Spear (complete with comedy voice) and his thesis on Brazilian Bossa Nova - it just seemed unbalanced.
in brief:
00.00 - 00.20: intro, complete with scat,
00.20 - 00.25: "...we'll have three tracks from... Avocet. Enjoy"
00.25 - 01.05: confusingly, given the introduction, some 'retro-garage'
01.05 - 01.25: we learn it's BJ's favourite of his own albums, and was only released on CD 15 years after the vinyl release
01.25 - 02.00: (a bit of) Kingfisher
02.00 - 3.15: another mention of the delayed CD release and some (interesting) biographic detail, and some info on the nature and recording of the album
3.15 - 3.50: (a bit of) Avocet
3.45 - 4.40: repeated recording details, and another mention of it being BJ's favourite. A mention of Martin Jenkins, without context, and no mention of Mr Thompson. The tracks are apparently named after birds, based on birds and have an ornithological bent
4.40 - 5.20: (a bit of) Bittern, with an abrupt edit into Dick Dale
6.00 - 'witty banter', and stuff I'm not hugely interested in. Chacun a son goût, of course.
Now obviously, in a live radio show, if you're playing an 18 minute track, there's less talk to be edited in, and I have no other FZ 'casts to compare it with. A main issue with this particular one was the repetitive nature of the information, and the omission of important info (cue 'funny' nerdy voice: musicians, label, in/out of print, previous and subsequent albums for an idea of where it fits into the oeuvre). I have the album - vinyl - but I think I would be in the dark listening to the Podcast on its own.
Now Stuart, thanks again for your comment - I couldn't resist rising to the challenge to explain my thoughts beyond my brief sketch. The Podcast certainly provoked me to re-visit the album on my iPod, and I will try to remember about the existence of BBC 6Music in future, and maybe 'Listen Again'.
Keep up the good work, and keep playing those 18 minute songs.
Any job going at the BBC for a 40 y-o disillusioned scientist with a passion for music, and prog in particular?
Following the Comment on the previous post 'All The Best Freaks Are Here', by Stuart Maconie, here are some expanded thoughts on the edition of the 'Freak Zone' Podcast that I heard. Please feel free to scatter 'IMO' liberally throughout this...
I stumbled upon this 'cast on iTunes while looking for something else. As I said, I rarely listen to DAB radio (I only have one, and that's in the kitchen, and other family members don't share much of my music taste), so was pleased to see this on offer, particularly with the title of "FreakZone: Brazilian Grooves and Bert Jansch 24 Feb 08".
With a running time of 19:33, and with the music rights issue, it was fairly obvious that music would be presented in brief extracts (although I have heard full radio shows before as Podcasts, contrary to what Mr Maconie suggests - perhaps they simply stumped up the royalties).
My main problem was that the Podcast didn't stand up as a separate entity. It was clearly edited from the full show (which I haven't heard yet) and came across as confusing, repetitive and shallow, and, most importantly of all, didn't do justice to the album under consideration. Three 30 second bits of tracks linked by some (but not enough) biographical detail - why no mention of Danny Thompson, given the earlier mention of The Pentangle? - which was repetitive, and seemingly sourced exclusively from Wikipedia.
I didn't like the dedication of less than 5 minutes to this album, followed by 13 minutes of Professor Justin Spear (complete with comedy voice) and his thesis on Brazilian Bossa Nova - it just seemed unbalanced.
in brief:
00.00 - 00.20: intro, complete with scat,
00.20 - 00.25: "...we'll have three tracks from... Avocet. Enjoy"
00.25 - 01.05: confusingly, given the introduction, some 'retro-garage'
01.05 - 01.25: we learn it's BJ's favourite of his own albums, and was only released on CD 15 years after the vinyl release
01.25 - 02.00: (a bit of) Kingfisher
02.00 - 3.15: another mention of the delayed CD release and some (interesting) biographic detail, and some info on the nature and recording of the album
3.15 - 3.50: (a bit of) Avocet
3.45 - 4.40: repeated recording details, and another mention of it being BJ's favourite. A mention of Martin Jenkins, without context, and no mention of Mr Thompson. The tracks are apparently named after birds, based on birds and have an ornithological bent
4.40 - 5.20: (a bit of) Bittern, with an abrupt edit into Dick Dale
6.00 - 'witty banter', and stuff I'm not hugely interested in. Chacun a son goût, of course.
Now obviously, in a live radio show, if you're playing an 18 minute track, there's less talk to be edited in, and I have no other FZ 'casts to compare it with. A main issue with this particular one was the repetitive nature of the information, and the omission of important info (cue 'funny' nerdy voice: musicians, label, in/out of print, previous and subsequent albums for an idea of where it fits into the oeuvre). I have the album - vinyl - but I think I would be in the dark listening to the Podcast on its own.
Now Stuart, thanks again for your comment - I couldn't resist rising to the challenge to explain my thoughts beyond my brief sketch. The Podcast certainly provoked me to re-visit the album on my iPod, and I will try to remember about the existence of BBC 6Music in future, and maybe 'Listen Again'.
Keep up the good work, and keep playing those 18 minute songs.
Any job going at the BBC for a 40 y-o disillusioned scientist with a passion for music, and prog in particular?
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
Winter Sun
I think I've been neglecting ths spirit of this blog lately, what with turmoil at work. With the late winter Sun at my back, and with a day off tomorrow, it's time to sit back, relax and re-focus...
I found a great blog yesterday - FreeAlbumsGalore - which links to various sources of free, legal music files and associated info and artwork. The full album list is here, and, while most of it is obscure and probably not to everyone's taste, if you don't like it, there's always iTunes, as it says at the bottom of this page.
A Gigantic Dub - Tommy McCook & The Aggrovators,
Dark Entries - Bauhaus,
One White Whale - Laurie Anderson,
Unheard Answer - Epsilon Indi,
On the Turning Away - Pink Floyd,
Movement 5, Soil Festivities - Vangelis. Still one of my favourite albums of all time,
C.R.E.E.P. - The Fall,
Desire - Talk Talk,
Yes, O Yes - The Fall,
From Now On - Supertramp. From The Fall to Supertramp - oh the joy of 'Shuffle',
Dying on the Vine - John Cale,
Dragonflys - Devendra Banhart,
A Child Is Father To The Man - The Beach Boys,
Stop - Pink Floyd, from The Wall,
Dreams of Surf - Vangelis.
A late, casual start to the day, as there's even less to do these days: T- 4; M - 4; D - 4
I found a great blog yesterday - FreeAlbumsGalore - which links to various sources of free, legal music files and associated info and artwork. The full album list is here, and, while most of it is obscure and probably not to everyone's taste, if you don't like it, there's always iTunes, as it says at the bottom of this page.
A Gigantic Dub - Tommy McCook & The Aggrovators,
Dark Entries - Bauhaus,
One White Whale - Laurie Anderson,
Unheard Answer - Epsilon Indi,
On the Turning Away - Pink Floyd,
Movement 5, Soil Festivities - Vangelis. Still one of my favourite albums of all time,
C.R.E.E.P. - The Fall,
Desire - Talk Talk,
Yes, O Yes - The Fall,
From Now On - Supertramp. From The Fall to Supertramp - oh the joy of 'Shuffle',
Dying on the Vine - John Cale,
Dragonflys - Devendra Banhart,
A Child Is Father To The Man - The Beach Boys,
Stop - Pink Floyd, from The Wall,
Dreams of Surf - Vangelis.
A late, casual start to the day, as there's even less to do these days: T- 4; M - 4; D - 4
Thursday, 31 January 2008
Dwarfish Trumpet Blues
Well. Two things today. I) Possible Company meltdown and II) Telephone interview to offer me a way out of the pain. In preparation, some Prog:
Universal Garden - Conspiracy, much better than the version on Open Your Eyes,
Aristocracy - Caravan,
Your Time Is Gonna Come - Led Zeppelin. Just great,
Matte Kudasai (Alternative Version) - King Crimson,
The Wizard (USA Promo with Dwarfish Trumpet Blues Story) - Tyrannosaurus Rex,
Moonloop - Porcupine Tree, all 18 minutes of it,
Brightness Falls - David Sylvian & Robert Fripp,
Yellow Peril - Steely Dan. I still have no idea what this album is...
Incommunicado - Marillion,
Pre-Dawn - Sunrise - The Enid, then the first 10 minutes of
The Revealing Science Of God - Yes, from Keys to Ascension I. God knows how they persuaded Rick Wakeman to play this again.
T - 3. Commuting is very difficult if a) the trains are spaced 8 minutes apart, and b) the indicator board indicates incorrect information. M - 4; D - 3
Universal Garden - Conspiracy, much better than the version on Open Your Eyes,
Aristocracy - Caravan,
Your Time Is Gonna Come - Led Zeppelin. Just great,
Matte Kudasai (Alternative Version) - King Crimson,
The Wizard (USA Promo with Dwarfish Trumpet Blues Story) - Tyrannosaurus Rex,
Moonloop - Porcupine Tree, all 18 minutes of it,
Brightness Falls - David Sylvian & Robert Fripp,
Yellow Peril - Steely Dan. I still have no idea what this album is...
Incommunicado - Marillion,
Pre-Dawn - Sunrise - The Enid, then the first 10 minutes of
The Revealing Science Of God - Yes, from Keys to Ascension I. God knows how they persuaded Rick Wakeman to play this again.
T - 3. Commuting is very difficult if a) the trains are spaced 8 minutes apart, and b) the indicator board indicates incorrect information. M - 4; D - 3
Monday, 19 November 2007
Perfectly Safe; Feel Quite Well...
... Why Don't You Just Go To Hell?
Egg. There are many albums (i.e. vinyl) that have passed through my hands, and many that now reside in my living room. There are also many that I regret not buying. One is the original Buckingham/Nicks album - which was available to me for £50 - when I returned the next day it had gone. Another is the original 'Egg' LP for £15.
I've finally found some downloads and was listening to them at the weekend - Magnificent Prog.
As I fought for arm-rest room between two small, but clinically obese, woman, I listened to 'The Civil Surface' and 'Egg' this morning:
TCS:
Germ Patrol, Wind Quartet I, Enneagram, Prelude, Wring Out the Ground (Loosely Now), Nearch, Wind Quartet II,
E:
Bulb, While Growing My Hair, I Will Be Absorbed, Fugue in D Minor, They Laughed When I Sat Down at the Piano..., Song of McGillicudie the Pusillanimous (Or Don't Worry James, your Socks are Hanging in the Coal Cellar with Thomas), Boilk, Symphony No. 2.
A heady mix of the Canterbury scene - Caravan, Soft Machine - but similarities with Gentle Giant, Gryphon and even vocal elements of Philip Glass (see North Star). I love this stuff. I prefer 'Civil Surface', but the Symphony (told you it was prog rock) is great.
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 1.5. The two fat women were only balanced by the approving glances - again! - from a young lady walking the other way. It must be my silk scarf...
Egg. There are many albums (i.e. vinyl) that have passed through my hands, and many that now reside in my living room. There are also many that I regret not buying. One is the original Buckingham/Nicks album - which was available to me for £50 - when I returned the next day it had gone. Another is the original 'Egg' LP for £15.
I've finally found some downloads and was listening to them at the weekend - Magnificent Prog.
As I fought for arm-rest room between two small, but clinically obese, woman, I listened to 'The Civil Surface' and 'Egg' this morning:
TCS:
Germ Patrol, Wind Quartet I, Enneagram, Prelude, Wring Out the Ground (Loosely Now), Nearch, Wind Quartet II,
E:
Bulb, While Growing My Hair, I Will Be Absorbed, Fugue in D Minor, They Laughed When I Sat Down at the Piano..., Song of McGillicudie the Pusillanimous (Or Don't Worry James, your Socks are Hanging in the Coal Cellar with Thomas), Boilk, Symphony No. 2.
A heady mix of the Canterbury scene - Caravan, Soft Machine - but similarities with Gentle Giant, Gryphon and even vocal elements of Philip Glass (see North Star). I love this stuff. I prefer 'Civil Surface', but the Symphony (told you it was prog rock) is great.
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 1.5. The two fat women were only balanced by the approving glances - again! - from a young lady walking the other way. It must be my silk scarf...
Friday, 16 November 2007
Do Away with People Wasting my Precious Time
Well, there's no-one here. What a surprise. A beautiful, crisp, clear Autumn Friday, and everyone's 'working from home'.
I actually felt quite relaxed and laid-back today, with my 'Not Classical or Spoken' playlist and the weekend stretching before me like a great shoe with its lights on (© Danny Baker).
It Ain't You - Tom McRae,
Jam Back At The House - Jimi Hendrix Experience,
La Petite Fille De La Mer - Vangelis. Back at Uni, this album (Apocalypse des Animaux) was my seduction tape. It didn't often work, but if the target of my affection said 'I hate this' then it became a useful filter device,
Golf Girl - Caravan,
Mother Stands For Comfort - Kate Bush. Another target of my affection. Oh man,
Moving In - Trevor Rabin, which later became 'Hold On' with Yes,
See Emily Play - Pink Floyd,
Hello Hello - Caravan,
The Last Man On Earth - Pendragon. A bit over-long, but there's a great guitar solo at the end,
Mary - Robert Fripp, from the superb 'Exposure' album,
3/5 Of A Mile In 10 Seconds - Jefferson Airplane,
Virginia Plain - Roxy Music,
Last to Know - Asia. I'm not a huge fan of Asia, but I have all their albums up to Aria. This was great as I walked to work, with my face pointing directly into the sun and my eyes half-closed behind shades.
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 4. I even got a lascivious smile from an attractive girl with long blonde hair.
I actually felt quite relaxed and laid-back today, with my 'Not Classical or Spoken' playlist and the weekend stretching before me like a great shoe with its lights on (© Danny Baker).
It Ain't You - Tom McRae,
Jam Back At The House - Jimi Hendrix Experience,
La Petite Fille De La Mer - Vangelis. Back at Uni, this album (Apocalypse des Animaux) was my seduction tape. It didn't often work, but if the target of my affection said 'I hate this' then it became a useful filter device,
Golf Girl - Caravan,
Mother Stands For Comfort - Kate Bush. Another target of my affection. Oh man,
Moving In - Trevor Rabin, which later became 'Hold On' with Yes,
See Emily Play - Pink Floyd,
Hello Hello - Caravan,
The Last Man On Earth - Pendragon. A bit over-long, but there's a great guitar solo at the end,
Mary - Robert Fripp, from the superb 'Exposure' album,
3/5 Of A Mile In 10 Seconds - Jefferson Airplane,
Virginia Plain - Roxy Music,
Last to Know - Asia. I'm not a huge fan of Asia, but I have all their albums up to Aria. This was great as I walked to work, with my face pointing directly into the sun and my eyes half-closed behind shades.
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 4. I even got a lascivious smile from an attractive girl with long blonde hair.
Thursday, 15 November 2007
Peace of Mind and Sanctuary
Feeling a bit sorry for myself this morning, despite the nice sunny start.
Just sooooo bored at work, and human contact is becoming minimal as everybody keeps their heads down and pretends to be working (myself including).
My iPod came up with a great 'Not Classical or Spoken' mix which suited my mood perfectly:
So Boot If At All - Soft Machine,
Johanneslust - Eno, Moebius, Roedelius, Plank,
Annie Says - John Martyn,
Stink Foot - Frank Zappa,
The Fat Angel - Donovan,
Rivendell - Rush,
Nostalgia - David Sylvian - sublime,
Spirals In Hyperspace - Ozric Tentacles,
Scrap Yard - Tangerine Dream,
Won't Get Fooled Again - The Who,
The Democratic Circus - Talking Heads,
It's Not My Name - Landscape.
T - 4; M - 4; D - 4
Just sooooo bored at work, and human contact is becoming minimal as everybody keeps their heads down and pretends to be working (myself including).
My iPod came up with a great 'Not Classical or Spoken' mix which suited my mood perfectly:
So Boot If At All - Soft Machine,
Johanneslust - Eno, Moebius, Roedelius, Plank,
Annie Says - John Martyn,
Stink Foot - Frank Zappa,
The Fat Angel - Donovan,
Rivendell - Rush,
Nostalgia - David Sylvian - sublime,
Spirals In Hyperspace - Ozric Tentacles,
Scrap Yard - Tangerine Dream,
Won't Get Fooled Again - The Who,
The Democratic Circus - Talking Heads,
It's Not My Name - Landscape.
T - 4; M - 4; D - 4
Monday, 29 October 2007
Guilty Pleasures
After a great weekend seeing family, a return to 'work'.
My iPod is full of the likes of Yes, King Crimson, Gentle Giant, Brian Eno, Kate Bush, Cocteau Twins, The Fall, Sigur Ros. But I have several guilty pleasures when I'm feeling a bit bored of these on constant rotation. One is Chris de Burgh. I first heard 'Spanish Train...' about 25 years ago (Annie Nightingale?) and bought the album at Woods Record Shop in Huddersfield. I was there for the embarrassment of 'Lady In Red', although I did try (unsuccesfully) to seduce a girl on a ferry to Norway. She was the girlfriend of a mate, so it perhaps wasn't a great move.
Anyway, I tend to favour te early stuff. Kinda folk/rock/pop with the odd fleeting prog-type influence:
I Had The Love In My Eyes - Chris De Burgh
Summer Rain - Chris De Burgh
New Moon - Chris De Burgh
Hold On - Chris De Burgh
The Key - Chris De Burgh
Spanish Train - Chris De Burgh
Carry On (Reprise) - Chris De Burgh
Crusader - Chris De Burgh
The Lady In Red - Chris De Burgh
Fire On The Water - Chris De Burgh
Just Another Poor Boy - Chris De Burgh
In A Country Churchyard (Let Your Love Shine On) - Chris De Burgh
Also, Methuselah's Children Part 3 (of 7) from a Radio 7 dramatisation. Very good.
T - 4; M - 3.5; D - 3
My iPod is full of the likes of Yes, King Crimson, Gentle Giant, Brian Eno, Kate Bush, Cocteau Twins, The Fall, Sigur Ros. But I have several guilty pleasures when I'm feeling a bit bored of these on constant rotation. One is Chris de Burgh. I first heard 'Spanish Train...' about 25 years ago (Annie Nightingale?) and bought the album at Woods Record Shop in Huddersfield. I was there for the embarrassment of 'Lady In Red', although I did try (unsuccesfully) to seduce a girl on a ferry to Norway. She was the girlfriend of a mate, so it perhaps wasn't a great move.
Anyway, I tend to favour te early stuff. Kinda folk/rock/pop with the odd fleeting prog-type influence:
I Had The Love In My Eyes - Chris De Burgh
Summer Rain - Chris De Burgh
New Moon - Chris De Burgh
Hold On - Chris De Burgh
The Key - Chris De Burgh
Spanish Train - Chris De Burgh
Carry On (Reprise) - Chris De Burgh
Crusader - Chris De Burgh
The Lady In Red - Chris De Burgh
Fire On The Water - Chris De Burgh
Just Another Poor Boy - Chris De Burgh
In A Country Churchyard (Let Your Love Shine On) - Chris De Burgh
Also, Methuselah's Children Part 3 (of 7) from a Radio 7 dramatisation. Very good.
T - 4; M - 3.5; D - 3
Thursday, 18 October 2007
Indi Music
Thursday, although it could be any other day. I've been invited to a second interview in my attempt to resuscitate my career. Just think, I could be out of here by the end of November.
More tantalising ADBS comments on yesterday's BBC London show, while Danny and Baylen were discussing the proposed job cuts at the BBC - "That's all right, we've got the other thing coming".
The Ballad Of 32 - Frankie Goes To Hollywood,
John Barleycorn - Jethro Tull. My search for more 'John Barleycorn' versions is up to 9, but I still need a Martin Carthy one.
After The Ordeal - Genesis,
Crux - Van Der Graaf Generator,
Get`em Out By Friday - Genesis,
I Need You Tonight - ZZ Top,
Snail Hair Dune - David Torn, Mick Karn, Terry Bozzio,
Them Heavy People - Kate Bush,
The World Underneath/The Return-Yamme Zan Dah - Epsilon Indi,
Annie Says - John Martyn,
The Kick Inside - Kate Bush.
T- 3; M -4; D - 4, including a rather atractive girl who joined me across the carriage and cheered me up no end.
More tantalising ADBS comments on yesterday's BBC London show, while Danny and Baylen were discussing the proposed job cuts at the BBC - "That's all right, we've got the other thing coming".
The Ballad Of 32 - Frankie Goes To Hollywood,
John Barleycorn - Jethro Tull. My search for more 'John Barleycorn' versions is up to 9, but I still need a Martin Carthy one.
After The Ordeal - Genesis,
Crux - Van Der Graaf Generator,
Get`em Out By Friday - Genesis,
I Need You Tonight - ZZ Top,
Snail Hair Dune - David Torn, Mick Karn, Terry Bozzio,
Them Heavy People - Kate Bush,
The World Underneath/The Return-Yamme Zan Dah - Epsilon Indi,
Annie Says - John Martyn,
The Kick Inside - Kate Bush.
T- 3; M -4; D - 4, including a rather atractive girl who joined me across the carriage and cheered me up no end.
Monday, 15 October 2007
It's A Beautiful Day For A Daring Raid
After one of those weekends where you feel like you need another to recover, a first listen to the new Robert Wyatt CD - Comicopera. I didn't get round to listening to it on my 'proper' hi-fi over the weekend.
Trademark multi-tracked vibrato-rich vocals, with loping jazz-blues and willfully amateurish trumpet playing. Splendid, although there isn't much variation towards the end. I can take or leave the Spanish-themed stuff, too. Not quite as immediate as 'Shleep', but good nontheless.
Stay Tuned - Robert Wyatt
Just as You Are - Robert Wyatt
You You - Robert Wyatt
A.W.O.L. - Robert Wyatt
Anachronist - Robert Wyatt
Beautiful Peace - Robert Wyatt
Be Serious - Robert Wyatt
On the Town Square - Robert Wyatt
Mob Rule - Robert Wyatt
Beautiful War - Robert Wyatt
Out of the Blue - Robert Wyatt
Del Mondo - Robert Wyatt
Cancion de Julieta - Robert Wyatt
Pastafari - Robert Wyatt
Fragment - Robert Wyatt
Plus, some recent downloads to replace my vinyl:
Here Comes The Feeling - Asia
After the War - Asia
Are You Big Enough? - Asia
2 H.B. - Roxy Music
T - 4; M - 4; D - 3
Trademark multi-tracked vibrato-rich vocals, with loping jazz-blues and willfully amateurish trumpet playing. Splendid, although there isn't much variation towards the end. I can take or leave the Spanish-themed stuff, too. Not quite as immediate as 'Shleep', but good nontheless.
Stay Tuned - Robert Wyatt
Just as You Are - Robert Wyatt
You You - Robert Wyatt
A.W.O.L. - Robert Wyatt
Anachronist - Robert Wyatt
Beautiful Peace - Robert Wyatt
Be Serious - Robert Wyatt
On the Town Square - Robert Wyatt
Mob Rule - Robert Wyatt
Beautiful War - Robert Wyatt
Out of the Blue - Robert Wyatt
Del Mondo - Robert Wyatt
Cancion de Julieta - Robert Wyatt
Pastafari - Robert Wyatt
Fragment - Robert Wyatt
Plus, some recent downloads to replace my vinyl:
Here Comes The Feeling - Asia
After the War - Asia
Are You Big Enough? - Asia
2 H.B. - Roxy Music
T - 4; M - 4; D - 3
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
That'll be Beau Peep,Then
More Baker & Kelly from the Talk/5Live archives, and the continuing exploits of Joanne. Whoever made these compilations deserves a medal. Get them before they're gone via here.
Still no sign of any information about the 'All Day Breakfast Show' from either Mr Baker or Wippit. Poor. Especially considering that some people have stumped up £50 already.
A sunny day and, although I still haven't heard about the job, I feel a lot better today. Some Cherry Ghost Pop/Rock to continue the mood...
Roses - Cherry Ghost, from a Janice Long Session 9April07,
4am - Cherry Ghost, from a Radcliffe & Maconie Session May 07,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, Janice Long Session
People Help The People - Cherry Ghost, Radcliffe & Maconie Session
My God Betrays - Cherry Ghost, Janice Long Session,
I Need You - Cherry Ghost, from the Mathematics single,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, Radcliffe & Maconie Session,
4 A.M. - Cherry Ghost, from the Thirst For Romance album,
Thirst For Romance - Cherry Ghost, Thirst For Romance,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, from Mathematics,
The Tube was very well behaved today.
T - 4; M - 4; D - 4. Pretty good start to the day, all in all.
Still no sign of any information about the 'All Day Breakfast Show' from either Mr Baker or Wippit. Poor. Especially considering that some people have stumped up £50 already.
A sunny day and, although I still haven't heard about the job, I feel a lot better today. Some Cherry Ghost Pop/Rock to continue the mood...
Roses - Cherry Ghost, from a Janice Long Session 9April07,
4am - Cherry Ghost, from a Radcliffe & Maconie Session May 07,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, Janice Long Session
People Help The People - Cherry Ghost, Radcliffe & Maconie Session
My God Betrays - Cherry Ghost, Janice Long Session,
I Need You - Cherry Ghost, from the Mathematics single,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, Radcliffe & Maconie Session,
4 A.M. - Cherry Ghost, from the Thirst For Romance album,
Thirst For Romance - Cherry Ghost, Thirst For Romance,
Mathematics - Cherry Ghost, from Mathematics,
The Tube was very well behaved today.
T - 4; M - 4; D - 4. Pretty good start to the day, all in all.
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Improvements to Service
I was awoken this morning by two radio presenters on BBC London discussing the probability of splitting the Northern Line in two: one bit High Barnet to Kennington; the other Edgware to Morden. I vaguely remember hearing something similar previously. I shudder to imagine the chaos at Camden Town if it happens. Why is it that, rather than addressing the problem - knackered track, faulty signals, infrequent service at rush hour - something that is convenient only to those responsible for running it is proposed?
Shuffle All, with a bit of Prog Rock to start:
Night After Night - UK, from the live album,
Rendezvous 6:02 - UK
Nothing to Lose - UK
As Long as You Want Me Here - UK
Alaska - UK
Wind on Water - Robert Fripp & Brian Eno
Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac
One More Try - Wigwam
Window Wide Open - Scritti Politti; I was really disappointed by this album,
Goodbye To Love - Carpenters
Wings - Tim Buckley
Misty Mountain Hop - Led Zeppelin
Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5) - David Gilmour, from a live album,
Supper's Ready - Genesis, from another live album, Seconds Out.
Still no sign of the All Day Breakfast Show in Color, although Mr Baker is still broadcasting on BBC London. I'm glad I was away and didn't sign up for this shambles - why all the secrecy?
T - 4; M -3.5; D - 4
Shuffle All, with a bit of Prog Rock to start:
Night After Night - UK, from the live album,
Rendezvous 6:02 - UK
Nothing to Lose - UK
As Long as You Want Me Here - UK
Alaska - UK
Wind on Water - Robert Fripp & Brian Eno
Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac
One More Try - Wigwam
Window Wide Open - Scritti Politti; I was really disappointed by this album,
Goodbye To Love - Carpenters
Wings - Tim Buckley
Misty Mountain Hop - Led Zeppelin
Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5) - David Gilmour, from a live album,
Supper's Ready - Genesis, from another live album, Seconds Out.
Still no sign of the All Day Breakfast Show in Color, although Mr Baker is still broadcasting on BBC London. I'm glad I was away and didn't sign up for this shambles - why all the secrecy?
T - 4; M -3.5; D - 4
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Beyond the Gilded Cage
Last day before my break. I've filled my iPod with favourite tracks and lots of comedy (Baker & Kelly, Chris Morris, Lee and Herring, all sorts of stuff).
Limelight - Rush
The Camera Eye - Rush
Witch Hunt - Rush
Vital Signs - Rush
Damage - David Sylvian & Robert Fripp. Man, this is beautiful,
Reel Around The Fountain - The Smiths
Funeral March - Jah Wobble
Ride (Mono) - Caravan
Well, that's it. No more commute for a while, and hopefully when I get back I'll have a different job.
T -4; M - 4; D - 3
Limelight - Rush
The Camera Eye - Rush
Witch Hunt - Rush
Vital Signs - Rush
Damage - David Sylvian & Robert Fripp. Man, this is beautiful,
Reel Around The Fountain - The Smiths
Funeral March - Jah Wobble
Ride (Mono) - Caravan
Well, that's it. No more commute for a while, and hopefully when I get back I'll have a different job.
T -4; M - 4; D - 3
Wednesday, 29 August 2007
Market Square Heroes
A pleasant surprise on the BBC website - Marillion and Fish getting together on stage - the third lead, would you believe? It must have been fun, and I'm glad they seem to have buried their demons:
The classic line-up of rock band Marillion have performed together on stage for the first time in 19 years.
Singer Fish, who went solo in 1988, was joined by his former bandmates for one song at a festival in Buckinghamshire.
Fish described it as "just five guys doing a one-off and having a brilliant time together", and stressed that it would not lead to a full reunion.
The quintet, who had 1980s hits such as Kayleigh and Lavender, played their debut single Market Square Heroes.
The gig took place at the Hobble on the Cobbles event in Market Square, Aylesbury, where the band formed, on Sunday.
The song came at the end of Fish's solo set. Guitarist Steve Rothery, bassist Pete Trewavas, keyboardist Mark Kelly and drummer Ian Mosley all took part in the surprise performance.
Fish told the BBC News website: "It was great. It was just a load of fun. But nothing should be read into it. I think it just proves that we're actually friends.
"There's always been these rumours that there's some sort of animosity between us but that went a long, long time ago."
The crowd let out a roar when the singer told them: "I want to produce some old friends of mine."
One fan, Helen Vought, said: "The crowd went mental, jumping up and down and cheering and screaming.
"It's something that I never ever thought would happen - and it did. There were literally grown men crying at the front of the audience."
Fish, whose real name is Derek William Dick, said he suggested the performance after seeing Marillion live in Glasgow in June.
Mark Kelly and Steve Rothery played at the gig. The band kept going after Fish left, with Steve Hogarth replacing him on vocals.
Although they never recaptured the commercial success they enjoyed with Fish in the mid-80s, they have retained a loyal support and have regularly appeared in the UK top 40.
Fish said he did not want to take part in a full reunion because Hogarth "does a great job with the band".
"What they do is completely different," he said. "I've got a new album called 13th Star and anybody that listens to that will understand that I'm worlds apart from what the Marillion guys do.
"We forged different paths over the 19 years."
He is due to tour the UK in September, followed by dates in Europe until mid-December.
Marillion released their 14th album, Somewhere Else, in April and will tour the UK and Europe in November and December.
The classic line-up of rock band Marillion have performed together on stage for the first time in 19 years.
Singer Fish, who went solo in 1988, was joined by his former bandmates for one song at a festival in Buckinghamshire.
Fish described it as "just five guys doing a one-off and having a brilliant time together", and stressed that it would not lead to a full reunion.
The quintet, who had 1980s hits such as Kayleigh and Lavender, played their debut single Market Square Heroes.
The gig took place at the Hobble on the Cobbles event in Market Square, Aylesbury, where the band formed, on Sunday.
The song came at the end of Fish's solo set. Guitarist Steve Rothery, bassist Pete Trewavas, keyboardist Mark Kelly and drummer Ian Mosley all took part in the surprise performance.
Fish told the BBC News website: "It was great. It was just a load of fun. But nothing should be read into it. I think it just proves that we're actually friends.
"There's always been these rumours that there's some sort of animosity between us but that went a long, long time ago."
The crowd let out a roar when the singer told them: "I want to produce some old friends of mine."
One fan, Helen Vought, said: "The crowd went mental, jumping up and down and cheering and screaming.
"It's something that I never ever thought would happen - and it did. There were literally grown men crying at the front of the audience."
Fish, whose real name is Derek William Dick, said he suggested the performance after seeing Marillion live in Glasgow in June.
Mark Kelly and Steve Rothery played at the gig. The band kept going after Fish left, with Steve Hogarth replacing him on vocals.
Although they never recaptured the commercial success they enjoyed with Fish in the mid-80s, they have retained a loyal support and have regularly appeared in the UK top 40.
Fish said he did not want to take part in a full reunion because Hogarth "does a great job with the band".
"What they do is completely different," he said. "I've got a new album called 13th Star and anybody that listens to that will understand that I'm worlds apart from what the Marillion guys do.
"We forged different paths over the 19 years."
He is due to tour the UK in September, followed by dates in Europe until mid-December.
Marillion released their 14th album, Somewhere Else, in April and will tour the UK and Europe in November and December.
Friday, 10 August 2007
The Cuervo Gold, The Fine Columbian
Friday at last. Only three weeks to go 'til my holiday. With regard to the 'All Day Breakfast Show', which has been excellent this week (did Baylen really say 'meeting people from behind a hole in the wall - it wouldn't be the first time'?), I'm gonna pay for the first three weeks and then have a break. If I feel like it when I get back, I'll continue.
I see England lost the toss yesterday and with it any chance of a win or draw at the Oval. The weather's been really cruel to them this series.
A fine relaxing commute today. Not even the peculiar woman in gloves who always looks agitated could put me off...
Some laid-back 'Jazz, Folk and Blues':
Hey Nineteen - Steely Dan,
Furry Sings The Blues - Joni Mitchell. There was a good article in today's Independent about her new forthcoming album,
CoolTide - John Martyn,
Bandaged By Dreams - David Torn, Mick Karn, Terry Bozzio. I just love the bass playing here...
Paprika Plains - Joni Mitchell ... but I love this more. After the voice/piano, in comes Jaco with a fairly simple fifths/octaves bass-line, but it's just great,
One World (Live At Regent's Park, 1978) - John Martyn. Beautiful,
Black Comedy - Miles Davis. Oh man,
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 4
I see England lost the toss yesterday and with it any chance of a win or draw at the Oval. The weather's been really cruel to them this series.
A fine relaxing commute today. Not even the peculiar woman in gloves who always looks agitated could put me off...
Some laid-back 'Jazz, Folk and Blues':
Hey Nineteen - Steely Dan,
Furry Sings The Blues - Joni Mitchell. There was a good article in today's Independent about her new forthcoming album,
CoolTide - John Martyn,
Bandaged By Dreams - David Torn, Mick Karn, Terry Bozzio. I just love the bass playing here...
Paprika Plains - Joni Mitchell ... but I love this more. After the voice/piano, in comes Jaco with a fairly simple fifths/octaves bass-line, but it's just great,
One World (Live At Regent's Park, 1978) - John Martyn. Beautiful,
Black Comedy - Miles Davis. Oh man,
T - 4; M - 4.5; D - 4
Thursday, 9 August 2007
Drama Queen
Another laid-back start to the day. I really should be feeling more anxious about my job situation, but can't seem to get too worried.
After the latest ADBS, featuring Wibsey of 'Ladies' Bras' notoriety, a relaxing Shuffle All playlist:
Machine Messiah - Yes, from the overlooked 'Drama' album
Silver Springs (rough) - Fleetwood Mac, from the double CD 'Rumours' re-release
Run Through The Light (Single Version) - Yes
Neurotica - King Crimson
Freefall - Vangelis
Velmwend - Ozric Tentacles
The Battle Of Epping Forest - Genesis
Alpine Tragedy / Sisters - Landscape
Outside In - John Martyn. Man, this is great.
I was sad to hear of the death of Tommy Makem at the weekend. I used to listen to a lot of my dad's LPs when I was a kid, including the TM and Clancy Brothers stuff. The Irish Republican stuff largely didn't register until I was older, but I just loved the music and the banter on the live albums.
Sad to hear about Bob Harris, too. A 'Whistle Test' hero and, with Fluff Freeman a great promoter of prog in the dark days of the synth-pop '80s. Get well soon, Bob.
On a more positive note, the Third Test starts today. The weather looks too good if India bat first, though.
While I remember, my iPod seems to be cutting of the last minute or so of the last few ADBS editions - is it something to to do with this 'ShrinkMyiTunes' they're being sponsored by? It's currently recorded at 40 kbps, and it's showing. It seems to work ok on my computers...
T - 4; M -4; D - 4. Potterwatch seems to have petered out completely - perhaps carrying such a large book is too much in the Tube. I had the same problem with the awful 'Jonathan Strange' book.
After the latest ADBS, featuring Wibsey of 'Ladies' Bras' notoriety, a relaxing Shuffle All playlist:
Machine Messiah - Yes, from the overlooked 'Drama' album
Silver Springs (rough) - Fleetwood Mac, from the double CD 'Rumours' re-release
Run Through The Light (Single Version) - Yes
Neurotica - King Crimson
Freefall - Vangelis
Velmwend - Ozric Tentacles
The Battle Of Epping Forest - Genesis
Alpine Tragedy / Sisters - Landscape
Outside In - John Martyn. Man, this is great.
I was sad to hear of the death of Tommy Makem at the weekend. I used to listen to a lot of my dad's LPs when I was a kid, including the TM and Clancy Brothers stuff. The Irish Republican stuff largely didn't register until I was older, but I just loved the music and the banter on the live albums.
Sad to hear about Bob Harris, too. A 'Whistle Test' hero and, with Fluff Freeman a great promoter of prog in the dark days of the synth-pop '80s. Get well soon, Bob.
On a more positive note, the Third Test starts today. The weather looks too good if India bat first, though.
While I remember, my iPod seems to be cutting of the last minute or so of the last few ADBS editions - is it something to to do with this 'ShrinkMyiTunes' they're being sponsored by? It's currently recorded at 40 kbps, and it's showing. It seems to work ok on my computers...
T - 4; M -4; D - 4. Potterwatch seems to have petered out completely - perhaps carrying such a large book is too much in the Tube. I had the same problem with the awful 'Jonathan Strange' book.
Wednesday, 8 August 2007
The Ladies' Bras
The 'All Day Breakfast Show' have teamed up with the 'Dirty Fan Mail (/Male?)' and 'Wippit' to put out the "Ladies' Bras" single. It's only about 40 seconds long, but is amusing, at least on first listen.
In a slightly juvenile way, it would be 'funny' to have this enter the charts, if anyone really cares about charts these days.
See also:
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/adbs-ups-and-downs.html
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/como-tose.html
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/everyone-bras-pants-zappa-potter-and.html
In a slightly juvenile way, it would be 'funny' to have this enter the charts, if anyone really cares about charts these days.
See also:
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/adbs-ups-and-downs.html
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/como-tose.html
http://blacklineblues.blogspot.com/2007/07/everyone-bras-pants-zappa-potter-and.html
Ride A White Horse
After the latest ADBS Podcast, which was particularly funny, I was in a good mood. Plus, the Tube was working properly. Work is going very badly, though, and I fear that it's terminal. Ho-hum.
T. On A White Horse - Eberhard Weber, a great jazz/ambient double bass player. I saw him solo in Cambridge about 15 years ago, and was very impressed, particularly by his real-time multi-track composition.
The Following Morning - Eberhard Weber. This album is just sublime,
Dance of The Deer - System 7. Some Steve Hillage techno.
Planet 7 - System 7
Somewhere Else - Marillion. I think this album is gradually growing on me, but I still have an issue with the production,
See It Like A Baby - Marillion
A Voice From The Past - Marillion
Most Toys - Marillion
No Such Thing - Marillion
Anesthetize - Porcupine Tree. Wonderful. If you want to hear how production should be done, this is a good place to start, IMO.
T - 4.5; M - 4; D - 4 - I must have had my Sex God aura with me, as I exchanged admiring glances with at least three young ladies at various points of my journey. Potterwatch is still bumping along at 3 or 4 a day, this time 2 male, 2 female.
T. On A White Horse - Eberhard Weber, a great jazz/ambient double bass player. I saw him solo in Cambridge about 15 years ago, and was very impressed, particularly by his real-time multi-track composition.
The Following Morning - Eberhard Weber. This album is just sublime,
Dance of The Deer - System 7. Some Steve Hillage techno.
Planet 7 - System 7
Somewhere Else - Marillion. I think this album is gradually growing on me, but I still have an issue with the production,
See It Like A Baby - Marillion
A Voice From The Past - Marillion
Most Toys - Marillion
No Such Thing - Marillion
Anesthetize - Porcupine Tree. Wonderful. If you want to hear how production should be done, this is a good place to start, IMO.
T - 4.5; M - 4; D - 4 - I must have had my Sex God aura with me, as I exchanged admiring glances with at least three young ladies at various points of my journey. Potterwatch is still bumping along at 3 or 4 a day, this time 2 male, 2 female.
Wednesday, 11 July 2007
Slow Life
If I keep my head down and work and hide in my office, no-one will bother me. It's worked so far this week. Shuffle All:
Castle In The Clouds - Gong,
Regression - Dream Theater,
Kick Muck - Ozric Tentacles,
Movements of Visionary - Tangerine Dream,
Survival - Yes,
Slow Life - Theo Travis/Mark Hewins, from a Burning Shed sampler CD,
Decentre - Brian Eno,
Lord of the Reedy River - the blessed Kate. Shame it comes out as 'weedy wiver',
Show Don't Tell - Rush,
Forever Autumn - Justin Hayward. I used to listen to this over and over again on the 'War of the Worlds' LP. This is from a Daily Mail freebie CD. Not my paper of choice by a long way, but it's a fairly good selection,
Dark the Night - Sandy Denny,
The Remembering; High the Memory - Yes. Every time I begin to listen to this I think 'here we go, more prog bombast and noodling' but every time I just get caught up in its majesty. Amazing.
T - 4; D - 3; M -4
Castle In The Clouds - Gong,
Regression - Dream Theater,
Kick Muck - Ozric Tentacles,
Movements of Visionary - Tangerine Dream,
Survival - Yes,
Slow Life - Theo Travis/Mark Hewins, from a Burning Shed sampler CD,
Decentre - Brian Eno,
Lord of the Reedy River - the blessed Kate. Shame it comes out as 'weedy wiver',
Show Don't Tell - Rush,
Forever Autumn - Justin Hayward. I used to listen to this over and over again on the 'War of the Worlds' LP. This is from a Daily Mail freebie CD. Not my paper of choice by a long way, but it's a fairly good selection,
Dark the Night - Sandy Denny,
The Remembering; High the Memory - Yes. Every time I begin to listen to this I think 'here we go, more prog bombast and noodling' but every time I just get caught up in its majesty. Amazing.
T - 4; D - 3; M -4
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
