Gullible's Travels
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Bill Bailey at the O2
Mary Galashan wrote "when a friend of a friend of a friend invites to you at the last minute to see Bill Bailey in a hospitality box at the O2, don't even think about it, say YES!!! It was great fun and so clever."
Peter Blake guitar at The O2
An old friend of my brother rang me up last Friday lunch time and asked if I was free that evening to go see Bill Bailey at the O2. He had done someone a favour and they reciprocated by giving him the exclusive use of a corporate box on that very day. So he spent the entire day frantically phoning round to find short-notice guests. Mary and I were available so off we went for what turned out to be a most excellent evening.
We saw Bill Bailey's Remarkable Guide To The Orchestra which was hugely entertaining. I had not realised that he was a musician before he was a comic and was pleasantly surprised when he sat down at the piano to rattle off a few classical numbers. Google for more reviews.
There was catering, as much drink as we wanted all for free, plus the entertainment. Afterwards, as it was still early, we went down to the VIP lounge bar and had a glass of champagne to round off the evening.
Bill Bailey at The O2. Slumming it in the corporate hospitality box. Free booze. Free food. Peter Blake original on the wall. Party on dudes!!
Mary Galashan wrote "when a friend of a friend of a friend invites to you at the last minute to see Bill Bailey in a hospitality box at the O2, don't even think about it, say YES!!! It was great fun and so clever."
Peter Blake guitar at The O2
An old friend of my brother rang me up last Friday lunch time and asked if I was free that evening to go see Bill Bailey at the O2. He had done someone a favour and they reciprocated by giving him the exclusive use of a corporate box on that very day. So he spent the entire day frantically phoning round to find short-notice guests. Mary and I were available so off we went for what turned out to be a most excellent evening.
We saw Bill Bailey's Remarkable Guide To The Orchestra which was hugely entertaining. I had not realised that he was a musician before he was a comic and was pleasantly surprised when he sat down at the piano to rattle off a few classical numbers. Google for more reviews.
There was catering, as much drink as we wanted all for free, plus the entertainment. Afterwards, as it was still early, we went down to the VIP lounge bar and had a glass of champagne to round off the evening.
Bill Bailey at The O2. Slumming it in the corporate hospitality box. Free booze. Free food. Peter Blake original on the wall. Party on dudes!!
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 10:04 PM 1 comments
Thursday, October 08, 2009
T.Rextasy at Epsom Playhouse Monday 05 October 2009
Monday night I went down to visit my long-time friend Ros in Epsom for a meal at the local Cafe Rouge followed by a concert at the Epsom Playhouse: T.Rextasy The Electric Boogie Tour! And a fine concert it was too; Danielz had them dancing in the aisles.
This is the third time I have seen T.Rextasy. The first was back in 1997 at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, 30th September 1997 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Mark's death. The second was Marc Bolan a Celebration at the shepherds Bush Empire to commemorate the 30th anniversary.
This was the most enjoyable of the three for me. I think this is because of The London Bop 2009 where I realised that a tribute band is not simply trying to slavishly recreate the sound but give it their own interpretation as well. A fine evening, thank you Danielz.
¶ Permanent link: 8:56 PM 0 comments
Monday night I went down to visit my long-time friend Ros in Epsom for a meal at the local Cafe Rouge followed by a concert at the Epsom Playhouse: T.Rextasy The Electric Boogie Tour! And a fine concert it was too; Danielz had them dancing in the aisles.
This is the third time I have seen T.Rextasy. The first was back in 1997 at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, 30th September 1997 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Mark's death. The second was Marc Bolan a Celebration at the shepherds Bush Empire to commemorate the 30th anniversary.
This was the most enjoyable of the three for me. I think this is because of The London Bop 2009 where I realised that a tribute band is not simply trying to slavishly recreate the sound but give it their own interpretation as well. A fine evening, thank you Danielz.
 | Play list: Raw Ramp Boogie on Metal Guru One Inch Rock Rapids Solid Gold Easy Action Life's a Gas Buick MacKane Ride a White Swan Token of My Love Born to Boogie Summertime Blues Jeepster | = Interval = Groover Baby Boomerang 20th Century Boy Sensation Boulevard Deborah Lean Woman Blues New York City Baby Strange Children of the Revolution Telegram Sam Just about Get it on = Encore = Hot Love |
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The London Bop 2009
Wednesday was the annual gathering of Marc Bolan fans in Golders Green. This was the, I think, fourth one of these I have been to and one of the more enjoyable. Part of that I attribute to live music from Tyrannosaurus Jed and Remco.
Tyrannosaurus Jed
Also the venue has changed. In previous years it was held in Klub Xtreme a somewhat pokey basement underneath The Rectory pub. This year it relocated to the White Swan in the main pub area. A great improvement as you could both see better what was going on and also hear yourself think which made talking to other Bolanites easier - which is part of the whole reason for going.
Tyrannosaurus Jed
I hardly needed a disco as the songs are already grooved into my brain so it was very refreshing to hear alternative live interpretations especially from Tyrannosaurus Jed who played songs from the earlier era before Tyrannosaurus Rex became T.Rex.
Remco - from Holland
For just one man with a guitar Remco produced an amazingly good sound. What you can't see in this photo is the huge crowd behind me. Standing immediately in front of me was a lady with a Marc Bolan tattoo on her shoulder done in some fine detail.
Marc Bolan Shoulder Tattoo
I met up with a number of people I had met through Facebook and it was good to put faces to the names.
Footnote:
It is appropriate that I post this on my birthday as it was on this very day in 1977 that I first learnt of Marc's death - several days after the event. I was on holiday in Greece and out of touch with dear old Blighty. As it was my birthday I treated myself to a several-days-old Times and there was the small paragraph announcing his death in a road traffic accident. ¶ Permanent link: 2:51 PM 0 comments
Wednesday was the annual gathering of Marc Bolan fans in Golders Green. This was the, I think, fourth one of these I have been to and one of the more enjoyable. Part of that I attribute to live music from Tyrannosaurus Jed and Remco.
Tyrannosaurus Jed
Also the venue has changed. In previous years it was held in Klub Xtreme a somewhat pokey basement underneath The Rectory pub. This year it relocated to the White Swan in the main pub area. A great improvement as you could both see better what was going on and also hear yourself think which made talking to other Bolanites easier - which is part of the whole reason for going.
Tyrannosaurus Jed
I hardly needed a disco as the songs are already grooved into my brain so it was very refreshing to hear alternative live interpretations especially from Tyrannosaurus Jed who played songs from the earlier era before Tyrannosaurus Rex became T.Rex.
Remco - from Holland
For just one man with a guitar Remco produced an amazingly good sound. What you can't see in this photo is the huge crowd behind me. Standing immediately in front of me was a lady with a Marc Bolan tattoo on her shoulder done in some fine detail.
Marc Bolan Shoulder Tattoo
I met up with a number of people I had met through Facebook and it was good to put faces to the names.
Footnote:
It is appropriate that I post this on my birthday as it was on this very day in 1977 that I first learnt of Marc's death - several days after the event. I was on holiday in Greece and out of touch with dear old Blighty. As it was my birthday I treated myself to a several-days-old Times and there was the small paragraph announcing his death in a road traffic accident. ¶ Permanent link: 2:51 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Middlesex Sevens and U2 at Wembley
Another hectic Saturday starting off with the Middlesex Sevens with Bob and Lynn (like last year 2008 and 2005 and 2004).
Then a cross-London dash from one stadium to another for the U2 360 tour at Wembley stadium. A spectacular show, sound a bit iffy (according to where you sat I suspect) but an enthusiastic crowd and ambiance. The Independant seemed a bit underwhelmed by it though [review].
Fans' reviews and comments on the official U2 site http://www.u2.com/news/title/wide-awake-in-london
Another hectic Saturday starting off with the Middlesex Sevens with Bob and Lynn (like last year 2008 and 2005 and 2004).
Then a cross-London dash from one stadium to another for the U2 360 tour at Wembley stadium. A spectacular show, sound a bit iffy (according to where you sat I suspect) but an enthusiastic crowd and ambiance. The Independant seemed a bit underwhelmed by it though [review].
Fans' reviews and comments on the official U2 site http://www.u2.com/news/title/wide-awake-in-london
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:28 PM 1 comments
Monday, August 10, 2009
Sapphire Bullets at The Grey Horse
The gig of the Sapphire Bullets Mahavishnu Orchestra tribute band was the finale of our hectic Saturday:
And I have to say they were very good indeed. Far better that one might expect for a fiver at the door in the back room of a pub in Kingston. The drummer is an ex-session musician and the lead guitarist is a very talented man, with Pete on bass, an electric violinist and keyboards player to complete the line-up.
Our friends Bron and Maggie came to show their support and a beer afterward. We had to nick a couple of chairs from the main pub for them as it was standing room only. Then it was the last train home after a most excellent day.
The gig of the Sapphire Bullets Mahavishnu Orchestra tribute band was the finale of our hectic Saturday:
- A 22 mile bike ride including a couple of turns round Richmond Park
- A couple of hours gardening
- A couple of hours shopping
- Supper at Jamie's Italian (Oliver that is) in Kingston
- The aforementioned gig by the Sapphire Bullets at The Grey Horse
And I have to say they were very good indeed. Far better that one might expect for a fiver at the door in the back room of a pub in Kingston. The drummer is an ex-session musician and the lead guitarist is a very talented man, with Pete on bass, an electric violinist and keyboards player to complete the line-up.
Our friends Bron and Maggie came to show their support and a beer afterward. We had to nick a couple of chairs from the main pub for them as it was standing room only. Then it was the last train home after a most excellent day.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 7:53 PM 0 comments
Friday, July 17, 2009
Sapphire Bullets play the music of The Mahavishnu Orchestra
Saturday, 08 August 2009, 20:30 - 23:30
The Grey Horse 46 Richmond Road Kingston KT2 5EE
A new band, Sapphire Bullets, playing the music of The Mahavishnu Orchestra, the best fusion band ever, mixing indian music, jazz and furious rock. Sat. 8th August at The Grey Horse in Kingston. Come along and join in, it's amazing music.
The pub: Beer in the Evening info
The location: Google Map
Saturday, 08 August 2009, 20:30 - 23:30
The Grey Horse 46 Richmond Road Kingston KT2 5EE
A new band, Sapphire Bullets, playing the music of The Mahavishnu Orchestra, the best fusion band ever, mixing indian music, jazz and furious rock. Sat. 8th August at The Grey Horse in Kingston. Come along and join in, it's amazing music.
The pub: Beer in the Evening info
The location: Google Map
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 7:00 PM 0 comments
Thursday, July 09, 2009
James Taylor at The O2
Mon 06-Jul-09. A fantastic concert and a great evening. Also catching what I missed in New Orleans and a whole load more. At the Jazz Fest I mistakenly decide to miss the first half of JT's set in favour of Johnny Winter, blues legend. Big mistake. Mary raved about JT so when we learned that he was on at the O2 is was an easy decision to go.
We went with our friend Elizabeth from the US who was staying with us for a couple of days. We had a Thai meal beforehand but due to our contingency-free timing and their slow service we missed the first 10 minutes of his set - fortunately none of the greatest hits.
He played all the old songs you could hope for (Sweet Baby James, You've Got a Friend, Carolina in my Mind, Fire and Rain) plus loads of interesting covers - country, jazz, blues, even an Elvis number. The PA system sounded top quality to my ears and he was in excellent voice so much listening pleasure :-)
Mon 06-Jul-09. A fantastic concert and a great evening. Also catching what I missed in New Orleans and a whole load more. At the Jazz Fest I mistakenly decide to miss the first half of JT's set in favour of Johnny Winter, blues legend. Big mistake. Mary raved about JT so when we learned that he was on at the O2 is was an easy decision to go.
We went with our friend Elizabeth from the US who was staying with us for a couple of days. We had a Thai meal beforehand but due to our contingency-free timing and their slow service we missed the first 10 minutes of his set - fortunately none of the greatest hits.
He played all the old songs you could hope for (Sweet Baby James, You've Got a Friend, Carolina in my Mind, Fire and Rain) plus loads of interesting covers - country, jazz, blues, even an Elvis number. The PA system sounded top quality to my ears and he was in excellent voice so much listening pleasure :-)
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 7:49 PM 2 comments
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Neil Young at Hard Rock Calling
Hyde Park, London Saturday 27 June 2009
The joys of the English weather - not! The http://www.hardrockcalling.co.uk/home/ site suggested "A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain wear, woolly jumper / fleece" which just about covers all eventualities. Weather.com claimed wall to wall sunshine, high 20's and 0% chance of rain. So what happened - the sky went black and the heavens opened:
Mary in cheap rain poncho
We liked Seasick Steve who was on stage as we arrived. Wandered around, drank beer and a jug of Pimms, ate some curry and settled in for the headline act.
Neil did a mixture of stuff I knew (because we have those albums) and stuff that we didn't but everybody else did (because they must have those albums). Two hours of what the crowd wanted including those that stuck in my mind: Heart of Gold, Old Man, Unknown Legend ("She rides a Harley-Davidson"), Needle and the Damage Done.
A surprise guest as he closed the show with The Beatles "Day in the Life" was none other than 'Macca' who joined him on vocals.
I was amused by a number of T-shirts in the crowd:
* I started out with nothing and I've still got most of it left.
* There are only three speeds. Fast. Very fast. And Oh shit!!
* I'm not a complete idiot! Parts of me are missing.
Hyde Park, London Saturday 27 June 2009
The joys of the English weather - not! The http://www.hardrockcalling.co.uk/home/ site suggested "A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain wear, woolly jumper / fleece" which just about covers all eventualities. Weather.com claimed wall to wall sunshine, high 20's and 0% chance of rain. So what happened - the sky went black and the heavens opened:
Mary in cheap rain poncho
We liked Seasick Steve who was on stage as we arrived. Wandered around, drank beer and a jug of Pimms, ate some curry and settled in for the headline act.
Neil did a mixture of stuff I knew (because we have those albums) and stuff that we didn't but everybody else did (because they must have those albums). Two hours of what the crowd wanted including those that stuck in my mind: Heart of Gold, Old Man, Unknown Legend ("She rides a Harley-Davidson"), Needle and the Damage Done.
A surprise guest as he closed the show with The Beatles "Day in the Life" was none other than 'Macca' who joined him on vocals.
I was amused by a number of T-shirts in the crowd:
* I started out with nothing and I've still got most of it left.
* There are only three speeds. Fast. Very fast. And Oh shit!!
* I'm not a complete idiot! Parts of me are missing.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 7:33 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
NOLA '09 - Jazz and Heritage Festival
New Orleans is a fantastic city and we had a wonderful time at the Jazz Fest - or the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to give its full title. There was some concern that it might not live up to my rose-tinted memories but in the event it matched or even exceeded them. The weather was a ruler straight 28°C and sunshine the entire time, the music was great, the food was delicious and the people were friendly.
So many times as soon as I opened my English mouth the person next to me would say "You're not from here. Where are you from?". "London, England" I would reply. "Welcome" was the invariable response often followed up by a friendly conversation.
Mardi Gras Indians at The Jazz Fest
We saw many great acts. The Jazz Fest is held at the race track. Once inside you can wander all day from stage to stage with a huge array of food (and drink) stalls for grazing on some of the best cajun and creole food. Just a fantastic time.
Crowd Scene at the Acura Stage
We bought a couple of folding picnic chairs, as did many, many others, and would carry them until a particular stage caught our eye where we would set our pitch and watch several acts, with occasional forays elsewhere - there were just so many acts to see.
The whole atmosphere is so relaxed it was a joy to be there. NOLA is my favourite American city by a long way.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157618006007772/detail/ ¶ Permanent link: 10:28 PM 1 comments
New Orleans is a fantastic city and we had a wonderful time at the Jazz Fest - or the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to give its full title. There was some concern that it might not live up to my rose-tinted memories but in the event it matched or even exceeded them. The weather was a ruler straight 28°C and sunshine the entire time, the music was great, the food was delicious and the people were friendly.
So many times as soon as I opened my English mouth the person next to me would say "You're not from here. Where are you from?". "London, England" I would reply. "Welcome" was the invariable response often followed up by a friendly conversation.
Mardi Gras Indians at The Jazz Fest
We saw many great acts. The Jazz Fest is held at the race track. Once inside you can wander all day from stage to stage with a huge array of food (and drink) stalls for grazing on some of the best cajun and creole food. Just a fantastic time.
Crowd Scene at the Acura Stage
We bought a couple of folding picnic chairs, as did many, many others, and would carry them until a particular stage caught our eye where we would set our pitch and watch several acts, with occasional forays elsewhere - there were just so many acts to see.
The whole atmosphere is so relaxed it was a joy to be there. NOLA is my favourite American city by a long way.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157618006007772/detail/ ¶ Permanent link: 10:28 PM 1 comments
Monday, May 11, 2009
NOLA '09 - French Quarter Festival
This year was our third visit to New Orleans for the French Quarter Festival (http://www.fqfi.org/) and the first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (http://www.nojazzfest.com/). The Jazz Fest has fixed dates and the FQF moves about. Every now and then they are contiguous and we go visit. This happened in 1998, 2001 and now 2009.
Dancing to Tom McDermott and the Jazz Hellions on Royal Street
The FQF is a much smaller, more intimate festival attracting a local crowd. It is held on the streets of the FQ and along the waterfront. And it is free! It is paid for by sponsors and the proceeds from the food and drink stalls. So to help keep it free all we have to to is drink Abita beer and eat gumbo and crawfish :-)
Lunch at the Old Mint - Crawfish and Stuffed Artichoke
For more photos see http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157617976619024/detail/ ¶ Permanent link: 8:57 PM 1 comments
This year was our third visit to New Orleans for the French Quarter Festival (http://www.fqfi.org/) and the first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (http://www.nojazzfest.com/). The Jazz Fest has fixed dates and the FQF moves about. Every now and then they are contiguous and we go visit. This happened in 1998, 2001 and now 2009.
Dancing to Tom McDermott and the Jazz Hellions on Royal Street
The FQF is a much smaller, more intimate festival attracting a local crowd. It is held on the streets of the FQ and along the waterfront. And it is free! It is paid for by sponsors and the proceeds from the food and drink stalls. So to help keep it free all we have to to is drink Abita beer and eat gumbo and crawfish :-)
Lunch at the Old Mint - Crawfish and Stuffed Artichoke
For more photos see http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157617976619024/detail/ ¶ Permanent link: 8:57 PM 1 comments
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Rick Wakeman: The Six Wives of Henry VIII at Hampton Court
Well as historic, once in a lifetime, musical events go this was one of them.
BIL George is a big Yes fan but SIL Sandra is not, so I got to go with George to see one of Prog rock's icons do something he has *never* done before: play all six wives in the same concert (see article in The Times)
The stage in front of The King Henry Gate
I heard a fascinating Radio 4 interview with Rick giving the full back story to the album and this concert. The transcript of which then turned up, more or less verbatim, in the souvenir programme notes which was nice. He first asked to perform at Hampton Court back in 1973 and was refused permission. Then last year the palace approached him to which his answer was to the effect of "Yes" and "About time! It has only taken you 36 years to give permission!"
Rick and the English Rock Ensemble
The full concert was a set from The English Chamber Choir, followed by The Acoustic Strawbs then the concert proper: Rick and the English Rock Ensemble supported by the choir and The Orchestra Europa.
The original album was planned to have a seventh track for Henry - "Defender of the Faith" - but the engineer said Rick couldn't record it because they had filled up both sides of a 12" vinyl, such is the limitation of that medium. So Rick reinstated it for this concert plus added extra instrumental solos to fill up a full two hours.
That did include narration from Brian Blessed who hammed it up something rotton. One amusing incident was when, in response to a good natured heckler, he gave us a hearty rendition of "Gordon's alive!"
Rick Wakeman on Keyboards
The icing on the cake was that http://www.concertlive.co.uk/ did an instant CD of that very concert. Only 10 minutes after the concert ended the CD's were spitting out of the machine. A limited edition 3 disc: 2 for the concert and one of photos. How is that for a souvenir! If they have not sold all 1000 you can still order online.
Only two nights, only 5000 seats per night, never to be repeated. It was a privilege to be there. Thank you George and thank you Rick!
[The Times review], [FT review]
Pictures courtesy of http://www.concertlive.co.uk/.
Well as historic, once in a lifetime, musical events go this was one of them.
BIL George is a big Yes fan but SIL Sandra is not, so I got to go with George to see one of Prog rock's icons do something he has *never* done before: play all six wives in the same concert (see article in The Times)
The stage in front of The King Henry Gate
I heard a fascinating Radio 4 interview with Rick giving the full back story to the album and this concert. The transcript of which then turned up, more or less verbatim, in the souvenir programme notes which was nice. He first asked to perform at Hampton Court back in 1973 and was refused permission. Then last year the palace approached him to which his answer was to the effect of "Yes" and "About time! It has only taken you 36 years to give permission!"
Rick and the English Rock Ensemble
The full concert was a set from The English Chamber Choir, followed by The Acoustic Strawbs then the concert proper: Rick and the English Rock Ensemble supported by the choir and The Orchestra Europa.
The original album was planned to have a seventh track for Henry - "Defender of the Faith" - but the engineer said Rick couldn't record it because they had filled up both sides of a 12" vinyl, such is the limitation of that medium. So Rick reinstated it for this concert plus added extra instrumental solos to fill up a full two hours.
That did include narration from Brian Blessed who hammed it up something rotton. One amusing incident was when, in response to a good natured heckler, he gave us a hearty rendition of "Gordon's alive!"
Rick Wakeman on Keyboards
The icing on the cake was that http://www.concertlive.co.uk/ did an instant CD of that very concert. Only 10 minutes after the concert ended the CD's were spitting out of the machine. A limited edition 3 disc: 2 for the concert and one of photos. How is that for a souvenir! If they have not sold all 1000 you can still order online.
Only two nights, only 5000 seats per night, never to be repeated. It was a privilege to be there. Thank you George and thank you Rick!
[The Times review], [FT review]
Pictures courtesy of http://www.concertlive.co.uk/.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 2:31 PM 3 comments
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Seventeen not-so-random musical things about me
More shameless recycling of FB memes...
1) What is the first song you ever remember hearing? How old were you?
One of many that were played on Children's Hour on the BBC home service but the one that springs to mind is "Trains" http://mikes.railhistory.railfan.net/sounds.html by Reginald Gardener http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reginald_Gardiner as we had a single (45 rpm). My friend Mike from college had the same record on 78 rpm.
2) What was the first album you ever bought on your own? What format?
Donovan's Greatest Hits on vinyl of course: LP 33 1/3 rpm.
The second was "My People Were Fair And Had Sky In Their Hair But Now They're Content To Wear Stars On Their Brows" by Tyrannosaurus Rex.
3) What was the first CD you ever bought?
"Beggar on a Beach of Gold" by Mike and the Mechanics. I had to as it was not available as an LP. I was a "Late Majority" adopter regards CDs.
4) What was the latest album you've purchased?
"The Six Wives of Henry VIII" by Rick Wakeman. I am going to see him perform live at Hampton Court Place on 01 April 2009.
5) What song takes you straight back to grade school?
See 1) Something from Children's Hour. Possibly "The Ugly Duckling" or "Tubby the Tuba" by Danny Kaye or "Little White Bull" by Tommy Steele.
6) What was the theme song of your high school prom?
N/A. The UK doesn't have High School Proms.
7) What was your first real concert?
No idea. Classical would be something featuring my school chum Catherine Bott (soprano) in the late '60s / early 70's http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Bott. Pop would be Tyrannosaurus Rex either Birmingham Town Hall - Saturday, February 15th 1969.or "Castle Rock" - Saturday, June 5th 1970.
8) What was your latest real concert?
Tina Turner at The O2.
9) Best concert?
Van Morrison at Portsmouth Town Hall on my birthday about five years ago.
10) What was your song with your first girl-/boyfriend?
We didn't have an "our song" that I recall.
11) What was your favorite band in high school?
Tyrannosaurus Rex
12) What albums were the soundtrack of your senior year?
"Unicorn" by, you guessed it, Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Also "Disraeli Gears" by Cream.
13) What was your first musical discovery at college?
Let's keep it simple and say Roxy Music but there were many other including Balinese Gamelan.
14) What song(s) did you/do you want played at your wedding?
We had:
"Music from the Royal Fireworks" by Handel
"Morning has broken "(Mary wouldn't let me have "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem")
"Love Divine, all loves excelling"
"Jesu, joy of man's desiring" by Bach
"Crown imperial by Walton
15) Do you have a favorite band now? If so, who?
No one band to single out.
16) What's the last thing you listened to?
"Language of the Heart" by Sanne http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanne_Salomonsen
17) What do you want played at your funeral?
"Cosmic Dancer" by T.Rex or maybe "Ride a White Swan" or, if it is a cremation, how about "Hot Love" :-)
More shameless recycling of FB memes...
1) What is the first song you ever remember hearing? How old were you?
One of many that were played on Children's Hour on the BBC home service but the one that springs to mind is "Trains" http://mikes.railhistory.railfan.net/sounds.html by Reginald Gardener http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reginald_Gardiner as we had a single (45 rpm). My friend Mike from college had the same record on 78 rpm.
2) What was the first album you ever bought on your own? What format?
Donovan's Greatest Hits on vinyl of course: LP 33 1/3 rpm.
The second was "My People Were Fair And Had Sky In Their Hair But Now They're Content To Wear Stars On Their Brows" by Tyrannosaurus Rex.
3) What was the first CD you ever bought?
"Beggar on a Beach of Gold" by Mike and the Mechanics. I had to as it was not available as an LP. I was a "Late Majority" adopter regards CDs.
4) What was the latest album you've purchased?
"The Six Wives of Henry VIII" by Rick Wakeman. I am going to see him perform live at Hampton Court Place on 01 April 2009.
5) What song takes you straight back to grade school?
See 1) Something from Children's Hour. Possibly "The Ugly Duckling" or "Tubby the Tuba" by Danny Kaye or "Little White Bull" by Tommy Steele.
6) What was the theme song of your high school prom?
N/A. The UK doesn't have High School Proms.
7) What was your first real concert?
No idea. Classical would be something featuring my school chum Catherine Bott (soprano) in the late '60s / early 70's http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Bott. Pop would be Tyrannosaurus Rex either Birmingham Town Hall - Saturday, February 15th 1969.or "Castle Rock" - Saturday, June 5th 1970.
8) What was your latest real concert?
Tina Turner at The O2.
9) Best concert?
Van Morrison at Portsmouth Town Hall on my birthday about five years ago.
10) What was your song with your first girl-/boyfriend?
We didn't have an "our song" that I recall.
11) What was your favorite band in high school?
Tyrannosaurus Rex
12) What albums were the soundtrack of your senior year?
"Unicorn" by, you guessed it, Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Also "Disraeli Gears" by Cream.
13) What was your first musical discovery at college?
Let's keep it simple and say Roxy Music but there were many other including Balinese Gamelan.
14) What song(s) did you/do you want played at your wedding?
We had:
"Music from the Royal Fireworks" by Handel
"Morning has broken "(Mary wouldn't let me have "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem")
"Love Divine, all loves excelling"
"Jesu, joy of man's desiring" by Bach
"Crown imperial by Walton
15) Do you have a favorite band now? If so, who?
No one band to single out.
16) What's the last thing you listened to?
"Language of the Heart" by Sanne http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanne_Salomonsen
17) What do you want played at your funeral?
"Cosmic Dancer" by T.Rex or maybe "Ride a White Swan" or, if it is a cremation, how about "Hot Love" :-)
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:18 AM 0 comments
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Tina Turner at the O2
Simply the best :-)
Saturday morning we had nothing planned for that evening. "Fancy seeing Tina Turner at the O2?" said Mary. Yeah, right like there will be any tickets available. But I looked on TicketMaster anyway and there were some tickets, cheapest in the house, "restricted view" which, looking at the seating plan, basically meant "behind the stage and you might just see something if Tina came right to the wings".
A quick Google revealed some secondhand tickets at face value from people who could not go - but the tickets had - and a couple of pairs offered at USD 1,000 - no way!
Anyhow I tried again at about 3 o'clock and would you believe it: a pair of top price tickets in block A2 (the block right in front of the stage) in the centre of row X, just 24 rows from the front. Brilliant seats so close we didn't need to look at the big screen to see Tina's expression.
The concert was a greatest hits and you can't ask for better than that.
Lots of costume changes including a "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome" for "We don't need another hero".
For a woman of 70 (!!) she still had the skin, the legs and the, ahem, upper torso and she wasn't afraid to flaunt it. And with what energy - "I'll have what she's having".
Right near the end she came out on an extending walk way that cantilevered out over the front section of the auditorium until she was practically over our heads. A fantastic concert and an unexpected surprise, as evenings go simply the best.
Simply the best :-)
Saturday morning we had nothing planned for that evening. "Fancy seeing Tina Turner at the O2?" said Mary. Yeah, right like there will be any tickets available. But I looked on TicketMaster anyway and there were some tickets, cheapest in the house, "restricted view" which, looking at the seating plan, basically meant "behind the stage and you might just see something if Tina came right to the wings".
A quick Google revealed some secondhand tickets at face value from people who could not go - but the tickets had - and a couple of pairs offered at USD 1,000 - no way!
Anyhow I tried again at about 3 o'clock and would you believe it: a pair of top price tickets in block A2 (the block right in front of the stage) in the centre of row X, just 24 rows from the front. Brilliant seats so close we didn't need to look at the big screen to see Tina's expression.
The concert was a greatest hits and you can't ask for better than that.
Lots of costume changes including a "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome" for "We don't need another hero".
For a woman of 70 (!!) she still had the skin, the legs and the, ahem, upper torso and she wasn't afraid to flaunt it. And with what energy - "I'll have what she's having".
Right near the end she came out on an extending walk way that cantilevered out over the front section of the auditorium until she was practically over our heads. A fantastic concert and an unexpected surprise, as evenings go simply the best.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 10:28 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
We're not worthy, we're not worthy
I have known Catherine Bott since we were 5. We went to the same primary school. Now she is so famous she rates top slot in The Times birthday item above Brian de Palma and an ex-Governor of the Bank of England:
September 10, 2008
Birthdays: Catherine Bott
The soprano Catherine Bott says she is busy improving her organisational skills in what she describes as a portfolio career in singing and broadcasting. She presents The Early Music Show on Radio 3 and is preparing a duet recital programme, "almost a cabaret", with James Bowman. She is spending her birthday in Andalucia with her partner Stephen "enjoying a long lunch at our favourite local restaurant". Catherine Bott is 56 today. RGT
Other birthdays
Paul Cole, racehorse trainer, 67; Brian De Palma, film director, 68; Sir Bernard Feilden, architectural conservationist, 89; Lord George, Governor, Bank of England, 1993-2003, 70; Roger Uttley, international rugby player, 59.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/court_and_social/article4726256.ece
She is even in Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Bott
Next time we meet I am going to have to have a Wayne's World moment.
I have known Catherine Bott since we were 5. We went to the same primary school. Now she is so famous she rates top slot in The Times birthday item above Brian de Palma and an ex-Governor of the Bank of England:
September 10, 2008
Birthdays: Catherine Bott
The soprano Catherine Bott says she is busy improving her organisational skills in what she describes as a portfolio career in singing and broadcasting. She presents The Early Music Show on Radio 3 and is preparing a duet recital programme, "almost a cabaret", with James Bowman. She is spending her birthday in Andalucia with her partner Stephen "enjoying a long lunch at our favourite local restaurant". Catherine Bott is 56 today. RGT
Other birthdays
Paul Cole, racehorse trainer, 67; Brian De Palma, film director, 68; Sir Bernard Feilden, architectural conservationist, 89; Lord George, Governor, Bank of England, 1993-2003, 70; Roger Uttley, international rugby player, 59.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/court_and_social/article4726256.ece
She is even in Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Bott
Next time we meet I am going to have to have a Wayne's World moment.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 9:08 PM 0 comments
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Madonna - Sweet and Sticky Tour
After the variouscock-ups administrative errors of the Kylie concert (late boat, missed pre-drinks, tickets for different dates!) the corporate entertainment company arranged a compensation event: Madonna at Wembley.
Now between you and me I wasn't exactly suffering Post traumatic stress disorder so I thought this was a gesture above and beyond the call of duty - but who am I to cavil.
The Chinese meal beforehand at Alisan was fine. Madge came on about 45m late at 9:00 and bashed out a fair number of greatest hits. Great to tick another cultural icon off the list but I have to say I think the visuals at Kylie's concerts, to supplement the dot on the stage, added greatly to the enjoyment of the spectacle.
Some of my colleagues had cameras so I will post a selection of photos later if I can.
After the various
Now between you and me I wasn't exactly suffering Post traumatic stress disorder so I thought this was a gesture above and beyond the call of duty - but who am I to cavil.
The Chinese meal beforehand at Alisan was fine. Madge came on about 45m late at 9:00 and bashed out a fair number of greatest hits. Great to tick another cultural icon off the list but I have to say I think the visuals at Kylie's concerts, to supplement the dot on the stage, added greatly to the enjoyment of the spectacle.
Some of my colleagues had cameras so I will post a selection of photos later if I can.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 5:29 PM 1 comments
Friday, August 08, 2008
Kylie at the the O2
As previously mentioned ("Kylie Minogue in a Red Latex Dress") I was due to see Kylie *twice* at the O2.
The first time was a team outing where we met at a bar beforehand, had a boat ride to the O2, a rushed meal, the concert, more drinks and another ride back to Westminster pier. I may have had a glass or two of champagne (hic!)
The second time was a more subdued affair. A relaxed meal with Mary at Las Iguanas, the concert and tube and train home. I saw more that time because my eyes were better at focusing :-)
What can I say. A true professional. La la la!
Loads more photos at:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=51265&l=c0e6a&id=547102291
and:
http://seguima.jalbum.net/Kylie/
As previously mentioned ("Kylie Minogue in a Red Latex Dress") I was due to see Kylie *twice* at the O2.
The first time was a team outing where we met at a bar beforehand, had a boat ride to the O2, a rushed meal, the concert, more drinks and another ride back to Westminster pier. I may have had a glass or two of champagne (hic!)
The second time was a more subdued affair. A relaxed meal with Mary at Las Iguanas, the concert and tube and train home. I saw more that time because my eyes were better at focusing :-)
What can I say. A true professional. La la la!
Loads more photos at:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=51265&l=c0e6a&id=547102291
and:
http://seguima.jalbum.net/Kylie/
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:45 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Kylie Minogue - In Red Latex Dress (new version)
It so happens that I am due to see Kylie at the O2 arena twice in the next couple of weeks. The second is a surprise Mary arranged for me (such a thoughtful spouse) and the first is a team outing from work for getting the "Gung Ho Team of the Year" award. They were trying for Wimbledon but that was over budget. Give my knowledge of tennis can be written on the back of postage stamp I reckon I got the long straw :-)
This reminded me that many years ago I had an excellent lodger called Neil and he was enamoured of young Kylie. Shortly after he left South Wimbledon, en route to Canada via Romford, I sat myself down to watch TOTP one Thursday evening. Who should be the guest presenter but young Kylie wearing a skin tight (is there any other sort?) red latex dress.
Quick as a flash I popped a blank VHS tape into the machine and hit the emergency record button. After the show I put the tape into a Jiffy bag and posted it off to Neil never to be seen again.
That was back in 1995. With these imminent concerts in mind I thought, what the heck let's see what YouTube has to offer. Blow me down if some thoughtful soul hasn't taken a recording of that ancient show and spliced together all the Kylie bits:
Since we are on YouTube here another Kylie clip that the boys might like:
The back story on: Kylie Minogue for Agent Provocateur
It so happens that I am due to see Kylie at the O2 arena twice in the next couple of weeks. The second is a surprise Mary arranged for me (such a thoughtful spouse) and the first is a team outing from work for getting the "Gung Ho Team of the Year" award. They were trying for Wimbledon but that was over budget. Give my knowledge of tennis can be written on the back of postage stamp I reckon I got the long straw :-)
This reminded me that many years ago I had an excellent lodger called Neil and he was enamoured of young Kylie. Shortly after he left South Wimbledon, en route to Canada via Romford, I sat myself down to watch TOTP one Thursday evening. Who should be the guest presenter but young Kylie wearing a skin tight (is there any other sort?) red latex dress.
Quick as a flash I popped a blank VHS tape into the machine and hit the emergency record button. After the show I put the tape into a Jiffy bag and posted it off to Neil never to be seen again.
That was back in 1995. With these imminent concerts in mind I thought, what the heck let's see what YouTube has to offer. Blow me down if some thoughtful soul hasn't taken a recording of that ancient show and spliced together all the Kylie bits:
Since we are on YouTube here another Kylie clip that the boys might like:
The back story on: Kylie Minogue for Agent Provocateur
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:56 PM 0 comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
Hampton Court Twice
Once again it is the Hampton Court Festival and we have been twice within a week.
Last Saturday we went to see Curtis Stigers, Cleo Lane and John Dankworth. We booked the tickets a while back to go with our friend Andrea. Unfortunately Andrea had to have a knee operation and wasn't able to come; she was not able to walk or drive or go on public transport. Then Mary had an inspiration, we knew that HC did wheelchairs from taking Mary's Mum round there last year.
So I was dispatched to off to Essex as a private ambulance to collect the invalid. We drove right up to the gates of the palace, popped Andrea in a wheelchair and pushed her to her seat. All the staff there were incredibly friendly and helpful.
Sunday the three of us spent several very pleasant hours wandering round the RHS Gardens at Wisley. Mary is a member, Andrea went in as her guest and I got in free as the "pusher". Wonderful gardens, a beautiful day and a fine way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Of course we came back with a boot (US:trunk) completely full of plants.
Thursday it was back to see Van "The Man" along with brother Ian and partner Sarah. The nice people from Sky accosted us as we entered and, on being answered that we came by train, gave us a complementary picnic blanket.
They had a photographer going round taking photos for free and downloadable at http://www.hcpf-photos.com/ - so that was a nice souvenir.
Once again it is the Hampton Court Festival and we have been twice within a week.
Last Saturday we went to see Curtis Stigers, Cleo Lane and John Dankworth. We booked the tickets a while back to go with our friend Andrea. Unfortunately Andrea had to have a knee operation and wasn't able to come; she was not able to walk or drive or go on public transport. Then Mary had an inspiration, we knew that HC did wheelchairs from taking Mary's Mum round there last year.
So I was dispatched to off to Essex as a private ambulance to collect the invalid. We drove right up to the gates of the palace, popped Andrea in a wheelchair and pushed her to her seat. All the staff there were incredibly friendly and helpful.
Sunday the three of us spent several very pleasant hours wandering round the RHS Gardens at Wisley. Mary is a member, Andrea went in as her guest and I got in free as the "pusher". Wonderful gardens, a beautiful day and a fine way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Of course we came back with a boot (US:trunk) completely full of plants.
Thursday it was back to see Van "The Man" along with brother Ian and partner Sarah. The nice people from Sky accosted us as we entered and, on being answered that we came by train, gave us a complementary picnic blanket.
They had a photographer going round taking photos for free and downloadable at http://www.hcpf-photos.com/ - so that was a nice souvenir.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 6:57 AM 1 comments
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Tramps Like Us...
...Baby, We were born to run.
Saturday was a busy day. First the Guinness Premiership final at one stadium (Twickers) then straight from there to another stadium (the Emirates) to see "The Boss". We saw the rugby with our friends Bob and Lynn but hardly hard a chance to chat as we rushed off in opposite directions after the game.
We went via Hammersmith for a quick bite to eat and meet up with Geraldine and Alasdair and their friends, Pat and Paddy. From there it was off to see Bruce and the E. Street Band.
Bruce at the Emirates Stadium, London, 1
Bruce at the Emirates Stadium, London, 2
It was loud and the crowd knew all the words but I only recognised a few of the tunes. I only possess the albums "Darkness on the Edge of Town" and "Greatest Hits". A good time was had by all.
...Baby, We were born to run.
Saturday was a busy day. First the Guinness Premiership final at one stadium (Twickers) then straight from there to another stadium (the Emirates) to see "The Boss". We saw the rugby with our friends Bob and Lynn but hardly hard a chance to chat as we rushed off in opposite directions after the game.
We went via Hammersmith for a quick bite to eat and meet up with Geraldine and Alasdair and their friends, Pat and Paddy. From there it was off to see Bruce and the E. Street Band.
Bruce at the Emirates Stadium, London, 1
Bruce at the Emirates Stadium, London, 2
It was loud and the crowd knew all the words but I only recognised a few of the tunes. I only possess the albums "Darkness on the Edge of Town" and "Greatest Hits". A good time was had by all.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:08 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Jazz on a Sunday Night (Take 2)
This Sunday it was the turn of Jan Garbarek* at the Royal Festval Hall as part of the London Jazz Festival.
We had never heard of him until a few years ago but our copy of the Rough Guide to Jazz kept falling open at that page so Mary figured we had to go buy an album. The first one we bought was the haunting and evocative Visible World. Since then we have acquired several more so when we saw that he was appearing it was a no-brainer decision to go and see him.
It was a fine concert, two hours without an interval. It was a quartet but to my untutored ears there was a definite pecking order in the band. Surprisingly Manu Katché on drums was the driving force then Jan Garbarek on sax with guitar and keyboards definitely playing second fiddle (sorry could not resist).
The FT said:
* Wikipedia on Jan Garbarek
This Sunday it was the turn of Jan Garbarek* at the Royal Festval Hall as part of the London Jazz Festival.
We had never heard of him until a few years ago but our copy of the Rough Guide to Jazz kept falling open at that page so Mary figured we had to go buy an album. The first one we bought was the haunting and evocative Visible World. Since then we have acquired several more so when we saw that he was appearing it was a no-brainer decision to go and see him.
It was a fine concert, two hours without an interval. It was a quartet but to my untutored ears there was a definite pecking order in the band. Surprisingly Manu Katché on drums was the driving force then Jan Garbarek on sax with guitar and keyboards definitely playing second fiddle (sorry could not resist).
The FT said:
"When Jan Garbarek last toured the UK, he played in cathedrals. His music fitted: icy, architectural slabs of devotion.Full review on "FT Review".
At the London Jazz Festival, the Norwegian saxophonist presented a very different proposition. He had mislaid two members of his usual touring quartet. Eberhard Weber, his double-bass player, is ill, and was replaced by Yuri Daniel, a Brazilian resident of Oslo playing an electric guitar that might have been carved from teak. And the Parisian Manu Katché took the place of the percussionist Marilyn Mazur. Katché at his best is an indispensable drummer, giving a jazzy fluidity to rock records just as often as he lends a rocky energy boost to his jazz dates.
This youthful, hard-driving rhythm section was a challenge to which Garbarek rose. He could occasionally be seen slapping his thigh, which in someone so austere was as surprising as if he had stripped to the waist and gone stagediving."
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
* Wikipedia on Jan Garbarek
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:37 AM 0 comments
Monday, November 19, 2007
Jazz on a Thursday Night
We went to see Al Jarreau* at The IndigO2 with our friend AndreaA. We ate in Thai Silk beforehand and then straight in for a prompt start, no support band.
Al was performing with the NDR Big Band who opened up then Al was out with the first number. The first half of the concert was a variety of standards, the second half he did a set based around numbers from Porgy and Bess with a suitable amount of scat singing. It was a wonderful concert, we enjoyed it tremendously.
Mary had bought front row seats, literally, I was in seat A22. It is amazing to be that close to the musicians, you could see every expression and the sound quality was superb. Though not close enough for some worshippers who went to right up to the stage and were gently asked by security to move away.
Another joy of the O2 is how easy it is to get home. half a dozen stops on the Jubilee line to Waterloo, then 13 minutes to Wandsworth Town.
* Wikipedia on Al Jarreau
We went to see Al Jarreau* at The IndigO2 with our friend AndreaA. We ate in Thai Silk beforehand and then straight in for a prompt start, no support band.
Al was performing with the NDR Big Band who opened up then Al was out with the first number. The first half of the concert was a variety of standards, the second half he did a set based around numbers from Porgy and Bess with a suitable amount of scat singing. It was a wonderful concert, we enjoyed it tremendously.
Mary had bought front row seats, literally, I was in seat A22. It is amazing to be that close to the musicians, you could see every expression and the sound quality was superb. Though not close enough for some worshippers who went to right up to the stage and were gently asked by security to move away.
Another joy of the O2 is how easy it is to get home. half a dozen stops on the Jubilee line to Waterloo, then 13 minutes to Wandsworth Town.
* Wikipedia on Al Jarreau
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 9:11 PM 0 comments
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Jazz on a Sunday Night
down at the Park Tavern. Brother-in-law Pete plays double bass and does occasional pub gigs. Last Sunday he was playing at the Park Tavern.
Since it is only 10 minutes walk from home I hardly had any excuse for not popping along. So I left Mary relaxing after a Sunday evening roast and toddled over for a very pleasant hour and a half listening to dinner jazz and drinking a couple of pints of Young's.
The pub has a very comfortable atmosphere almost like being in your own livng room: comfy chairs. roomy, well lit, friendly bar staff and a clientele that looked agreeable.
I got talking a a group of blokes who were obviously a) old mates and b) into the music. Turns out one of them has a trulli down on the coast at Castellana Grotte: http://www.trullicasolare.com/. Small world, eh? ¶ Permanent link: 4:33 PM 0 comments
down at the Park Tavern. Brother-in-law Pete plays double bass and does occasional pub gigs. Last Sunday he was playing at the Park Tavern.
Since it is only 10 minutes walk from home I hardly had any excuse for not popping along. So I left Mary relaxing after a Sunday evening roast and toddled over for a very pleasant hour and a half listening to dinner jazz and drinking a couple of pints of Young's.
The pub has a very comfortable atmosphere almost like being in your own livng room: comfy chairs. roomy, well lit, friendly bar staff and a clientele that looked agreeable.
I got talking a a group of blokes who were obviously a) old mates and b) into the music. Turns out one of them has a trulli down on the coast at Castellana Grotte: http://www.trullicasolare.com/. Small world, eh? ¶ Permanent link: 4:33 PM 0 comments
Monday, September 17, 2007
Marc Bolan a Celebration
UPDATE
Tillers outside Klub Xtreme (video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwj5aFW0yNs
Klub Xtreme 16-Sep-07 (photos)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157602078491475/
Born to Boogie DVD launch April 2005 (photos)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157602067819450/ ¶ Permanent link: 8:39 PM 2 comments
This Sunday saw the 30th anniversary of the death of Marc Bolan, my teenage idol. It brought fans from all around the globe to visit the tree, attend a ceremony at Golders Green Crematorium and go to Klub Xtreme which hosts an event every 16th September.
This year there was also a concert at Shepherds Bush Empire fronted by tribute band T.Rextasy with a number of guest appearances (reviewed in The Times).
For me it was also an opportunity to meet many cyber-friends from a a mailing list on Yahoo called Tilldawn (also http://tilldawn.net/). I knew many of them by their posts and it is great to meet them in the flesh and put a face to the name.
One of them is a Jorgen, a postman from Sweden who I first met at a similar event ten years ago. It was good to be able to offer him a bed for the night, save him the cost of a hotel and act as host for his visit. I will be posting load of photos to Flickr later...
UPDATE
Tillers outside Klub Xtreme (video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwj5aFW0yNs
Klub Xtreme 16-Sep-07 (photos)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157602078491475/
Born to Boogie DVD launch April 2005 (photos)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157602067819450/ ¶ Permanent link: 8:39 PM 2 comments
Monday, September 10, 2007
The Police Twickenham Sunday 09 September 2007
Well that is handy. Someone has blogged the set list and Flicker'd a whole set of photos.
I am sure a whole slew of reviews will follow from fans all over. My two penn'th is that the bass was cranked up as you might expect when the front man plays bass guitar; it made my chest vibrate is was so intense.
It as a fine concert with a mixture of greatest hits and tracks I did not recognise but I guess that is my lack of familiarity with their complete oeuvre. Three men without any backing musicians can make a lot of music.
The only downside was the time it took to get home. The queues to get into the station and onto the trains meant it took an hour and three quarters to get home. I shall look at alternatives next time.
Well that is handy. Someone has blogged the set list and Flicker'd a whole set of photos.
I am sure a whole slew of reviews will follow from fans all over. My two penn'th is that the bass was cranked up as you might expect when the front man plays bass guitar; it made my chest vibrate is was so intense.
It as a fine concert with a mixture of greatest hits and tracks I did not recognise but I guess that is my lack of familiarity with their complete oeuvre. Three men without any backing musicians can make a lot of music.
The only downside was the time it took to get home. The queues to get into the station and onto the trains meant it took an hour and three quarters to get home. I shall look at alternatives next time.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 3:45 PM 4 comments
Friday, August 24, 2007
It's Only Rock'n'Roll But I Like It
Went to see The Rolling Stones at the O2 last night and it was absolutely *expletive*deleted* brilliant!! Nearly 2 hours of non-stop greatest hits starting with Honky Tonk Women and ending with Brown Sugar by way of, amongst others, Paint It Black, Midnight Rambler, It's Only rock and Roll, and a stonking version of Sympathy for the Devil (whoo, whoo!).
We were at the far end of the arena directly facing the stage. Thank goodness for the large screen behind the stage, it showed Mick's every last gyration. I just hope I have his energy when I am 64, heck I wish I had that much now :-(
Even with the big screen I preferred to watch the small figure on the stage. To me it makes more (emotional) sense to focus on the real flesh and blood presence otherwise I might as well watch a DVD.
Then half way through the set a surprise. The whole centre section of the stage rolled out across the arena floor with the band on it till they were right up our end of the arena where they played a few numbers before wheeling back again. An excellent view of the band <cheesy grin>.
As an O2 subscriber I got access to the O2 lounge before (and after if we wished) and to the Blueroom during which was handy as the queues for the public bars were huge. The staff, the "O2 Angels", are well trained or well recruited - all very friendly and helpful (and young and pretty). Even ignoring the ego-stroking "exclusive" marketing appeal it did add positively to the whole experience.
Went to see The Rolling Stones at the O2 last night and it was absolutely *expletive*deleted* brilliant!! Nearly 2 hours of non-stop greatest hits starting with Honky Tonk Women and ending with Brown Sugar by way of, amongst others, Paint It Black, Midnight Rambler, It's Only rock and Roll, and a stonking version of Sympathy for the Devil (whoo, whoo!).
We were at the far end of the arena directly facing the stage. Thank goodness for the large screen behind the stage, it showed Mick's every last gyration. I just hope I have his energy when I am 64, heck I wish I had that much now :-(
Even with the big screen I preferred to watch the small figure on the stage. To me it makes more (emotional) sense to focus on the real flesh and blood presence otherwise I might as well watch a DVD.
Then half way through the set a surprise. The whole centre section of the stage rolled out across the arena floor with the band on it till they were right up our end of the arena where they played a few numbers before wheeling back again. An excellent view of the band <cheesy grin>.
As an O2 subscriber I got access to the O2 lounge before (and after if we wished) and to the Blueroom during which was handy as the queues for the public bars were huge. The staff, the "O2 Angels", are well trained or well recruited - all very friendly and helpful (and young and pretty). Even ignoring the ego-stroking "exclusive" marketing appeal it did add positively to the whole experience.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 8:53 AM 2 comments
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Prince - The Artist Formerly Known as Squiggle
But it was Saturday night, I guess that makes it all right *
We went to see the purple one at The O2 on Saturday and I was most impressed both by the concert and the venue. No point in writing a review - there are plenty out there [Google "prince at the o2 review"]. Suffice to say it was very good and my ears were still ringing the next morning.
The venue is pretty amazing especially compared to the last concert we went to (Genesis at Twickenham). No concrete behemoth here, it is all very slick with a massive foyer, no queues and plenty of catering. As my first visit to the place, I think they have done an excellent job converting the dome.
One of the highlights was a conversation with a couple of lasses from "oop north". We guessed they were fans by the matching symbols on their right shoulder blades. We had a chat and one said "It's my husband's fiftieth today. He said, 'I don't want a big fuss'. So we said 'right ho, we're off to see Prince in London'. He's sat at home on his own with our son." Oh how we laughed!
* Little Red Corvette from 1999 by Prince
But it was Saturday night, I guess that makes it all right *
We went to see the purple one at The O2 on Saturday and I was most impressed both by the concert and the venue. No point in writing a review - there are plenty out there [Google "prince at the o2 review"]. Suffice to say it was very good and my ears were still ringing the next morning.
The venue is pretty amazing especially compared to the last concert we went to (Genesis at Twickenham). No concrete behemoth here, it is all very slick with a massive foyer, no queues and plenty of catering. As my first visit to the place, I think they have done an excellent job converting the dome.
One of the highlights was a conversation with a couple of lasses from "oop north". We guessed they were fans by the matching symbols on their right shoulder blades. We had a chat and one said "It's my husband's fiftieth today. He said, 'I don't want a big fuss'. So we said 'right ho, we're off to see Prince in London'. He's sat at home on his own with our son." Oh how we laughed!
* Little Red Corvette from 1999 by Prince
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 2:00 PM 1 comments
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Thumpermonkey Lives! Dublin Castle, Camden. Thursday 03-Aug-06
Live @ Dublin Castle £4.50 Mit Flyer
Thumpermonkey Lives!
Thursday 3rd August @ 9PM 'til late
94 Parkway
Camden
London
NW1 7AN
map
www.thumpermonkey.com
myspace.com/thumpermonkey
Live @ Dublin Castle £4.50 Mit Flyer
Thumpermonkey Lives!
Thursday 3rd August @ 9PM 'til late
94 Parkway
Camden
London
NW1 7AN
map
www.thumpermonkey.com
myspace.com/thumpermonkey
Labels: family, music, thumpermonkey
¶ Permanent link: 9:21 AM 0 comments
Thumpermonkey Lives! Summer Tour 2006
Thumpermonkey Lives! Summer Tour 2006
Aug 03: Dublin Castle, London
Aug 04: Night and Day, Manchester
Aug 09: Pure, Sunderland
Aug 10 The Crown, Middlesborough
Aug 11: Venue TBC
Aug 12: Edwards No.8, Birmingham
Aug 18/19: Secret Festival (Shh)
A public demonstration of the recent album: "Chap With The Wings, Five Rounds Rapid".
www.thumpermonkey.com
myspace.com/thumpermonkey
Thumpermonkey Lives! Summer Tour 2006
Aug 03: Dublin Castle, London
Aug 04: Night and Day, Manchester
Aug 09: Pure, Sunderland
Aug 10 The Crown, Middlesborough
Aug 11: Venue TBC
Aug 12: Edwards No.8, Birmingham
Aug 18/19: Secret Festival (Shh)
A public demonstration of the recent album: "Chap With The Wings, Five Rounds Rapid".
www.thumpermonkey.com
myspace.com/thumpermonkey
Labels: family, music, thumpermonkey
¶ Permanent link: 9:18 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Jazz at the Tower
Not just any old tower, The Tower of London that is. Sunday night M&M went with sister Jane and friend Heather to Jazz at The Tower. Picnic beforehand in the moat followed by a two-part set. Part A was the James Taylor Quartet followed by a relaxed (as a newt) interval then Part B was Georgie Fame and The Blue Flames.
A cracking evening with fine sets from both bands. JTQ cranked out the blues / funk / soul a lá Blues Brothers and GF was a showman schlepping out "Yeh, Yeh" which segued into a medley of fine old standards (give the punters what they want).
It was odd, not to say surreal, however, to have as an MC a genuine Beefeater.
Not just any old tower, The Tower of London that is. Sunday night M&M went with sister Jane and friend Heather to Jazz at The Tower. Picnic beforehand in the moat followed by a two-part set. Part A was the James Taylor Quartet followed by a relaxed (as a newt) interval then Part B was Georgie Fame and The Blue Flames.
A cracking evening with fine sets from both bands. JTQ cranked out the blues / funk / soul a lá Blues Brothers and GF was a showman schlepping out "Yeh, Yeh" which segued into a medley of fine old standards (give the punters what they want).
It was odd, not to say surreal, however, to have as an MC a genuine Beefeater.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 11:00 PM 0 comments
Monday, May 16, 2005
Born To Boogie DVD review
Well not really a review but memories from the Pre-Release screening. So as promised there...
Theme for a dragon
It felt very strange sitting there in the dark at the advance screening of the Born To Boogie DVD. I was close to being one of the oldest there apart from those who had been active participants at the time. I was not a T.Rex fan; I was a Tyrannosaurus Rex fan. Seeing the sights and sound of that era took me into flashback. I was one of the earlier would-be hippy generation. Like many I listened to John Peel's late show under the bedclothes and was introduced to many a strange musik. That was pre-Deborah (08-May-1968) as I rushed out to order it as soon as it was announced. I continued to buy every single and album until early 1972 (Telegram Sam and Electric Warrior were my last purchases).
The John Peel years
Following the sad passing of John, Michael Heatley rushed out not a biography but "An Appreciation" entitled "John Peel: A Life in Music" (ISBN: 1843171570). A passable non-biography covering the main chronological aspects of JP's life and giving, of course, many mentions of Marc, the early support and the subsequent parting. What I had not appreciated was how much a part of my life John had been. Not just through my listening to him but also my school and college friends. Pete at college was heavily into Zappa and Captain Beefheart and who do you think introduced those to the British public? John occasionally played the weird poet Ivor Cutler who I even went to see live at the Roundhouse.
The Fraudster years
I feel something of a fraud - not a real fan - I am not even sure how many times I saw Marc. You would think that would be indelibly engraved in my memory but not so. I thought I had seen him twice: once at an open-air concert as a Tyrannosaurus duo and once as a T.Rex quartet. When my parents moved house I thought I had chucked the only ticket stub I had. Subsequently I found three more. So did I mis-remember that discard? Was it one of the three or not? Had I seen him four or three times?
The Dandy years
And then there were the clothes. God that took me back as well! I had the full set: the crushed velvet flares, the tank top, the floppy rounded shirt collar and, of course, the platform sole boots. A special trip to London from boondocks Kenilworth down to Camden Town for 2-inch soles and 4 inch heels; although I wimped out and went for brown not silver. I remember Dad trying them on and strutting the living room carpet saying they made him feel like John Wayne! I still have those boots at the back of the cupboard, I just cannot bear to chuck them - the excuse is "spray them silver for a fancy dress party". But the flared jeans had to go, I am no longer waist 28", inside leg 32".
The Absentee years
Then I drifted away. I never bought past EW. Well actually I did but only out of the remaindered bin or second hand not hot off the presses. The college years introduced me to Madonna and Wam! Like a Virgin and Wake me up Before You Go-Go. And where are they now? ABC, Eurythmics and... Even so it was a shock on my birthday to hear of Marc's death. I was on a small Greek island, Andros, with Sheridan, and on the 20th of September, as it was my 25th birthday, we treated ourselves to a copy of The Times for the crossword and news of dear old Blighty. There in a small item, overshadowed by the passing of The King, was the news.
That night, for the only time on that fateful holiday (for more reasons than one) I switched from Amstel to Retsina. Drank more than was necessary and head-butted the low-hanging veranda on the way out. That hurt.
The Rediscovery years
Then in February 1996 I briefly acquired a CompuServe account through work for use with a geographically dispersed project. I discovered AltaVista (how did they lose the plot to Google?) and first typed in my name and second Marc Bolan. So he was never far below the surface. What did I find but The Ancients Scrolls of Beltane and Ole Catblack's Devotional site. The former was the unique Rickster, the latter I never found out who he was and he later dropped off the radar. Rick however remained a global force in preserving Marc's memory. So fast forward through the TillDawn Years, the album reviews, the re-listening to all the albums grooved into my brain.
And that is how I came to be sitting in a darkened cinema watching Born To Boogie. Tomorrow I will rush down to Virgin Megastore at Tottenham Court Road and treat myself to a serious chunk of nostalgia. ¶ Permanent link: 9:26 PM 0 comments
Well not really a review but memories from the Pre-Release screening. So as promised there...
Theme for a dragon
It felt very strange sitting there in the dark at the advance screening of the Born To Boogie DVD. I was close to being one of the oldest there apart from those who had been active participants at the time. I was not a T.Rex fan; I was a Tyrannosaurus Rex fan. Seeing the sights and sound of that era took me into flashback. I was one of the earlier would-be hippy generation. Like many I listened to John Peel's late show under the bedclothes and was introduced to many a strange musik. That was pre-Deborah (08-May-1968) as I rushed out to order it as soon as it was announced. I continued to buy every single and album until early 1972 (Telegram Sam and Electric Warrior were my last purchases).
The John Peel years
Following the sad passing of John, Michael Heatley rushed out not a biography but "An Appreciation" entitled "John Peel: A Life in Music" (ISBN: 1843171570). A passable non-biography covering the main chronological aspects of JP's life and giving, of course, many mentions of Marc, the early support and the subsequent parting. What I had not appreciated was how much a part of my life John had been. Not just through my listening to him but also my school and college friends. Pete at college was heavily into Zappa and Captain Beefheart and who do you think introduced those to the British public? John occasionally played the weird poet Ivor Cutler who I even went to see live at the Roundhouse.
The Fraudster years
I feel something of a fraud - not a real fan - I am not even sure how many times I saw Marc. You would think that would be indelibly engraved in my memory but not so. I thought I had seen him twice: once at an open-air concert as a Tyrannosaurus duo and once as a T.Rex quartet. When my parents moved house I thought I had chucked the only ticket stub I had. Subsequently I found three more. So did I mis-remember that discard? Was it one of the three or not? Had I seen him four or three times?
The Dandy years
And then there were the clothes. God that took me back as well! I had the full set: the crushed velvet flares, the tank top, the floppy rounded shirt collar and, of course, the platform sole boots. A special trip to London from boondocks Kenilworth down to Camden Town for 2-inch soles and 4 inch heels; although I wimped out and went for brown not silver. I remember Dad trying them on and strutting the living room carpet saying they made him feel like John Wayne! I still have those boots at the back of the cupboard, I just cannot bear to chuck them - the excuse is "spray them silver for a fancy dress party". But the flared jeans had to go, I am no longer waist 28", inside leg 32".
The Absentee years
Then I drifted away. I never bought past EW. Well actually I did but only out of the remaindered bin or second hand not hot off the presses. The college years introduced me to Madonna and Wam! Like a Virgin and Wake me up Before You Go-Go. And where are they now? ABC, Eurythmics and... Even so it was a shock on my birthday to hear of Marc's death. I was on a small Greek island, Andros, with Sheridan, and on the 20th of September, as it was my 25th birthday, we treated ourselves to a copy of The Times for the crossword and news of dear old Blighty. There in a small item, overshadowed by the passing of The King, was the news.
That night, for the only time on that fateful holiday (for more reasons than one) I switched from Amstel to Retsina. Drank more than was necessary and head-butted the low-hanging veranda on the way out. That hurt.
The Rediscovery years
Then in February 1996 I briefly acquired a CompuServe account through work for use with a geographically dispersed project. I discovered AltaVista (how did they lose the plot to Google?) and first typed in my name and second Marc Bolan. So he was never far below the surface. What did I find but The Ancients Scrolls of Beltane and Ole Catblack's Devotional site. The former was the unique Rickster, the latter I never found out who he was and he later dropped off the radar. Rick however remained a global force in preserving Marc's memory. So fast forward through the TillDawn Years, the album reviews, the re-listening to all the albums grooved into my brain.
And that is how I came to be sitting in a darkened cinema watching Born To Boogie. Tomorrow I will rush down to Virgin Megastore at Tottenham Court Road and treat myself to a serious chunk of nostalgia. ¶ Permanent link: 9:26 PM 0 comments
Friday, November 05, 2004
Bill Posters Will Be Band
One of the joys of working in London is the recapture of a social life Monday to Thursday instead of room service meals and CNN on the TV.
Tuesday I popped down to Farnham on the train to spend the evening with Mum and Dad who seemed on excellent form. Mum's Aorto-Bi-Femoral Bypass and Dad's double hernia (I spared you that one) seem to be things of the past and they have bounced back well.
Mum produced a pack of letters I wrote to them when I was in college in 71/74 as part of clearing out their lives. A quick glance show them to be less Oscar Wilde and more Nigel Molesworth.
Last night it was the train again to Putney to visit brother Ian for an Thai meal and an evening of entertainment from Bill Posters Will Be Band at The Bull's Head. They were as droll as when I saw them back in February.
The funniest part was when Richard White did a "Incompetent Ventriloquist" skit. It is the first time I have seen a dummy give his handler a Glasgow Kiss.
One of the joys of working in London is the recapture of a social life Monday to Thursday instead of room service meals and CNN on the TV.
Tuesday I popped down to Farnham on the train to spend the evening with Mum and Dad who seemed on excellent form. Mum's Aorto-Bi-Femoral Bypass and Dad's double hernia (I spared you that one) seem to be things of the past and they have bounced back well.
Mum produced a pack of letters I wrote to them when I was in college in 71/74 as part of clearing out their lives. A quick glance show them to be less Oscar Wilde and more Nigel Molesworth.
Last night it was the train again to Putney to visit brother Ian for an Thai meal and an evening of entertainment from Bill Posters Will Be Band at The Bull's Head. They were as droll as when I saw them back in February.
The funniest part was when Richard White did a "Incompetent Ventriloquist" skit. It is the first time I have seen a dummy give his handler a Glasgow Kiss.
Labels: music
¶ Permanent link: 9:00 AM 0 comments
Friday, May 07, 2004
The tree where Marc Bolan died
Now here is a thing. Yesterday was a lovely sunny, brisk spring morning and at 06:55am I was touching the tree where Marc Bolan died (see T.Rex FAQ). Completely unplanned.
Wednesday I visited Mum - out of hospital and hobbling about the house with two walking sticks. Then on to meet with bro and sis in Wandsworth for a meal and debrief on the last 6 weeks.
Mary and I have a small flat round the corner on the Wandsworth one-way system, where I planned to stay the night. Unfortunately when I left Avon Cottage I also left the flat keys so ended up sleeping in Ian's spare bedroom (he lives in Barnes). Then up at 06:15 to get back to SW18 to pick up the car and drive back to A.C.
The 06:47 from Barnes Bridge was cancelled so I decided to walk back to Wandsworth which took me past Barnes station - just 2 minutes walk from the tree. So I *had* to detour and pay my respects. There on the notice board was a laminated note from the Tilldawn and Trex mailing lists.
Funny how the day goes... ¶ Permanent link: 10:58 AM
Now here is a thing. Yesterday was a lovely sunny, brisk spring morning and at 06:55am I was touching the tree where Marc Bolan died (see T.Rex FAQ). Completely unplanned.
Wednesday I visited Mum - out of hospital and hobbling about the house with two walking sticks. Then on to meet with bro and sis in Wandsworth for a meal and debrief on the last 6 weeks.
Mary and I have a small flat round the corner on the Wandsworth one-way system, where I planned to stay the night. Unfortunately when I left Avon Cottage I also left the flat keys so ended up sleeping in Ian's spare bedroom (he lives in Barnes). Then up at 06:15 to get back to SW18 to pick up the car and drive back to A.C.
The 06:47 from Barnes Bridge was cancelled so I decided to walk back to Wandsworth which took me past Barnes station - just 2 minutes walk from the tree. So I *had* to detour and pay my respects. There on the notice board was a laminated note from the Tilldawn and Trex mailing lists.
Funny how the day goes... ¶ Permanent link: 10:58 AM
