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Saturday 30 June 2012

SATURDAY NIGHT JUKEBOX! - Dizzie Rascal - 'Holiday'



Dizzie Rascal - 'Holiday' (2009)

Who needs a holiday?! I do! Putting all my belief that we are guaranteed at least a couple of weeks good weather in the UK summer, I didn't book a summer break anywhere this year. Well that was a mistake I soon rectified. With the rubbish nonstop rain and uncertainty of temperature, I thought "to hell with this" and booked a few days in the south of Spain to visit old pa and mother shell hunter. As a ritual, I played this track because it gets me 'in the mood'! Dizzie's clever lyrics have got it right...for me anyway, I drink white wine!


Don't watch my passport photo!

I do remember finishing work a few years back, and was going to Dominican Republic for a 2 week break the following morning. All I had to do was pack and chill out in sensible anticipation as the flight was very early. But no, already bitten by the holiday bug we were in such good spirits playing this song that we thought we'd go for a couple as a reward of getting to this day finally. London Scouser and I met up with Flycasual and had a few modest drinks in the pub. I discovered it was a wine festival and saw they were offering any of the fancy festival wines at the same low cost as the house, including a 100 year old wine. Well it would be rude not to try it! It was lush so I thought I'd make the most of it. Well after Fly went home, I had gone passed the point of no return and we carried on, meeting old pa in our local pub. I don't remember much after a certain point but I do remember waking up to a very early alarm (thank god) and having to rush around packing when I felt so bad I could hardly stand! No idea what I was packing and could quite happily have just cancelled and gone to sleep. Once in the car the holiday playlist started and this came on again. It will always be laced with a warning taunt to not get fried before your holiday. At least wait til you get to the airport!

Have a word darlin'...check out more Saturday Night Jukebox here!
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Thursday 28 June 2012

DYLAN COVERS #55 Richard Thompson - Girl from the North Country/Dylan Medeley


RICHARD THOMPSON - Girl from the North Country(2012)

This track is taken from a concert at the  City Winery, New York, 15th Feb 2012 you can see the set list here.
A big thank you to the person who put it on Youtube. It really is a very nice take and excellent guitar works as you would expect from RT.


RICHARD THOMPSON - Dylan Medley(1992)

This can be found on the Boot 'Big City Classic' and was recoded on the 4th March 1992 at the Bottom Line , New York. The Medley consists of bits of 'Tears of Rage', 'Desolation Row', 'Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues' and 'It takes a lot to Laugh, a Train to Cry'. It looks like he is making it up as he goes along, but it is just nice to hear RT covering the Bard.
Nice Beret
 For more Dylan Covers
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Ali Farka Toure and Toumani Diabate - 'Ruby'

World Music Corner




Ali Farka Toure & Toumani Diabate - Ruby (2006)

A magnificent and entrancing song by Mali's Kora (a 21 string harp like instrument) king Toumani Diabate and the late Blues legend Ali Farka Toure taken from their colloborative album, 'Ali and Toumani'. Recorded in 2006 but released in 2010, it contains some of Toure's very last known recordings with 'Ruby' named and dedicated to producer and long term friend, Nick Gold's daughter. I remember going to see Tinariwen at the Koko last November and walking in whilst this song was resonating from the venue's soundsystem, it was amazing to hear it loud, made even more special as I was listening to this album at the time. Toumani's Kora just seems to dance around Toure's Rhythm and Blues hook with the hypnotising effect of snake charmer.

Ali and Toumani....'oooh cheeky...keep you hands where I can see them Ali!!'





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Wednesday 27 June 2012

WEDNESDAY CLUB - John Phillips - Topanga Canyon

MIDWEEK CRISIS you're stuck in your room, come to WEDNESDAY CLUB we've got John Phillips, he'll take you to the Long Barn

JOHN PHILLIPS - Topanga Canyon(1970)

I was laying in bed, I had been there for 3 week and was seriously pissed off. I had an operation on my foot and because of diabetes I had a nurse come everyday to administer intravenously strong antibiotics in case of infection. (never once was I offered a bed bath)  I had to stay with my foot up. I decided to ask the nurse if I could drink alcohol and she said yes, in moderation.

In moderation my ass! ha! ha! ha!.

Shellhunter came home from work, it was a beautiful sunny day and I said  'we're going down the pub!'  in my best possible Jimmy Pursey imitation . With the aid of crutches, that is exactly what we did. It was great, I had escaped my room, my tomb. We sat there in the sun and I had more than several beautiful pints of cool lager. Probably one of the best and most memorable sessions I have ever had.

John Phillip's 'Topanga Canyon' was on a Uncut sampler which I was playing in my room at the time and it just blew me away. It must be one of the saddest songs I have ever heard. The tragedy and realisation the he was trapped in the grip of drugs. It was on a re-released album by John (John, The Wolf King of L.A.), which I missed first time round. That was rectified immediately. 
Everyone thought I was smarter
There is a controversial story about John if you want to follow it up. He may have had a long standing affair with his daughter Mackenzie (Nothing to do with me, Mackenzie is my surname). Interested?

For more WEDNESDAY CLUB, take intravenously
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Tuesday 26 June 2012

TUESDAY BLUES!! John Legend - Show Me







John Legend - Show Me (2007)

With it's Hendrix-style guitar riff and a vocal style reminiscent of Jeff Buckley, this song ticks every box. It featured on his 2007 album, Once Again, and in my (humble) opinion is probably his best ever song.
The song is dedicated to Yaguine Koita and Fode Tounkara, young stowaways who died flying from Guinea to Belgium in July, 1999; as well as the millions who live in poverty and the video was shot in Zanzibar and Tanzania in October, 2007.

Despite it's sincere subject matter, when I listen to it, I always think of my wife and in particular one interesting evening we had. It was our first Valentine's and I wanted to make a great impression. Although, I I'd only had moved down to West Wales a few months earlier, I thought it would be best to check with my sister (who was living done there at the time) for her recommendations of a nice restaurant in the area. Unfortunately, she couldn't remember the name but said it started with a 'B' and was near a particular round-about, so when I came across the 'Bush Inn', near the said roundabout I quickly called them up to book a table.  I was greatly relieved that they had some availability and I thought I'd cracked it.

John Legend - good for lovin'
On the night, I slapped on the Old Spice, had a 'Valentines Playlist' CD prepared, put it on the car stereo and we headed out.  She had asked, "where were we headed" and I said that "it was a surprise" and we continued the drive, both looking forward to a romantic evening.  As we got nearer to the roundabout, I got a little nervous as we passed a little pub and noticed how my girlfriend seemed to smile on the approach, but then looked a little confused as we drove past the car park.  

We continued on and quickly arrived at the roundabout and we had arrived at the place I had booked. As I pulled into the car park I noticed that my girlfriend had a little grin, I was certain it was in anticipation of a night of guaranteed loving.  However, when we walked into the bar, my face dropped, I was gutted, it was full of pensioners, paper table cloths, a cheap fake rose on the table and I quickly realised I had made a big mistake.  It was a dive, the sort of pub that looks up to a Weatherspoons. I had a face on as I realised I had got it completely wrong. We quickly ate our meal and drove back home, as we passed the other pub I noticed the name, it was called "the Bridge".  It was a surprise, just not the one I was hoping for!!!

Check out more Tuesday Blues here and subscribe to our Spotify Playlist
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Sunday 24 June 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 24/06/12 - Husky, Grizzly Bear, Giant Giant Sand, The Soul Rebels Brass Band

WE LAUGH AT THE FACE OF THE BRITISH SUMMER (WELL THREE OF US DO) WHEN WE HAVE SONGS LIKE THESE TO BRING THE HEAT!




Sfw:-
Husky - History's Door (2012)





This is a track that I've had for a little while but I'd forgot to share - sorry.  Husky are a four piece and this features on their debut album forever so. With it's driving beat and a kaleidoscope-like guitar melody, it spins you round like a boomerang and keeps on coming back to you. (sorry). It so good that I'll even forgive them for being from Australia - due to the Aussies beating Wales in the Rugby!

Download "History's Door" from the SubPop Label here 

Flycasual:-
Grizzly Bear - Sleeping Ute (2012)



During one of my many daydreams at work, this Buckley-esque, psychedelic, 70's retro rock song came on the radio and that's it I was off. I'm Chuck Norris, it's 71', 'Nam, I'm at the controls of my Huey approaching the target area..."abort, abort the LZ's too hot...gaddamn it" and with my mission over, I went to the office radio (which I claimed for the morning) to see which of the Buckley's this was (maybe it's just me). But I was surprised to see that it was none other than Brooklyn's Indie/folk (if that's a fair assessment) band Grizzly Bear with this new song, 'Sleeping Ute' taken from their new album, and follow up to 2009's Veckatimest, which is out in September. A lot more electric and definitely not what I expected, especially after their songs like 'Two Weeks' and 'Knives' but excellent nonetheless. GGRRRRR!

Shell Hunter:-
The Soul Rebels Brass Band - 'Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This' (2012)


I was in my local pub the other day and normally if you visit during the afternoon, the jukebox is set to random. Not only are the songs random, but they are bloody annoying as well! You get the likes of Chas and Dave, George Fornby and really bad europop. I think it's to encourage people to put money in so they can listen to something else! On exiting I was hit by this big brass band sound....and I recognised that song! Trusty shazam helped me out and I did a little research. These guys played on Jools Holland back in November and released their album 'Unlock Your Mind' on 31st January this year. I'm sure you'll agree, their sound rocks! Their style spans soul, funk, hip hop and jazz which I'm into at the moment. It's another reason to keep going to my local, it gets me into gems like this one! Check out their site www.thesoulrebels.com for tour info and free music!

Old Pa's Corner:-
Giant Giant Sand - Forever and a Day (2012)


If you are lovers of Calexico, well this is where they learnt there trade with Giant Sand who really is the Giant Howe Gelb. Calexico's Joey Burns and John Coventino often were deep in the heart of Giant Sand's music. This is great alt Country/Mexicana music, it is a fabulous track and really is 2 tracks for the price of one with a superb break in the middle. It is taken from his new album Tucson - a Country Rock Opera (2012) . I can't wait to get this and if this is anything to go by. 'Good Luck Suckers , I'm on my way!'  to get it!
Pussy galore
More tracks of the week here...
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Saturday 23 June 2012

SATURDAY NIGHT JUKEBOX! - Guru Josh Project - 'Infinity'




Guru Josh Project - 'Infinity' (2008)

Every now and then a song hits me despite it not being my usual 'thing'. I would never claim to be a fan of Europop but hey its the Euro's, why not?! This is a bit of a guilty pleasure but never the less, its got a great dance beat to it and the saxophone intro reminds me of the bit from Flash Dance! 80's tastic!




I used to hear this song driving from flight to flight at the airport on the radio which was always tuned to KissFM whenever I got into the car (not my choice of course). I finally gave in, admitted to liking it and put it on the next holiday playlist. We'd booked a weeks break to Protaras in Cyprus renting an apartment. The area happened to be quite underdeveloped but there was about 5 bars, a shop, a kebab shop, a Chinese, 2 Cypriot restaurants and it was next to a very picturesque beach called Pirate's Cove (what more do you need?). We went out to one of the bars on our first night and instead of the usual holiday revellers we expected to encounter, we'd walked into a local's bar where everyone knew everyone...except us. It was a bit awkward at first like the bit from 'An American Werewolf In London' where the two lads walk into the Slaughtered Lamb Pub, but with a few drinks inside us and music videos blaring over the speakers, we were soon right at home. I remember this song came on and some of the drunken locals were shouting the words in each other's faces and dancing happily but a little too much in my personal space. It was ok though, I was on holiday! So I just smiled and continued sipping my wine. We listened to the playlist numerous times but I don't know why this song in particular will always remind me this trip to Cyprus. Maybe because when we played it the car when driving around the deserted streets of Ayia Napa (as it was dead season in early March), I was imagining how it should be heard, in a full club and extremely loud!


Pirate's Cove... minutes away from Naaaappppaaaa!




Stay on the path! Stay on the road to more SATURDAY NIGHT JUKEBOX here!
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Thursday 21 June 2012

DYLAN COVERS # 54 ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL - Blonde on Blonde 3 of 3


FLAMING GROOVIES - Absolutely Sweet Marie

This is taken from their album 'Jumpin' in the Night'(1979). Other contenders were the versions by George Harrison and Rab Noakes 
YO LA TENGO - 4th Time Round

Here is another one from that fabulous Soundtrack  'I'm not there' (2007) and it just pipped Calexico for that honour.


TONI PRICE - Obviously 5 Believers

This is from her album 'Hey' (1995) and apart from some some live poor quality versions, it was a choice between this one and a version by Sean Costello, both are equally good.

JOAN BAEZ - Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands

I just love Joan Baez covering Dylan especially her 60's output. This is taken from her album exclusively of Dylan Covers 'Any Day Now' (1968). There are some real gems there,  Second in the list was the version by  Steve Howe (Formally of Yes) which is really quite good as well.
With your mecury mouth

So here you have it, the 14 tracks from 'Blonde on Blonde' covered,  hope you like my choices

For more Dylan Covers
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THURSDAY I'M IN LOVE - Air - 'Playground Love'


THURSDAY I'M IN LOVE....A CHANCE FOR ME TO SHARE SOME GOLD THAT FLASHES ON MY SOUL!!



Air - Playground Love (1999)

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to be cuddled by a Wookie, then I think 'Playground Love' would be the closest thing to it. Although I really like Air, I always thought they were a bit hit and miss, I loved their first album Moon Safari and the odd single here and there but that's about it. I remember first hearing this song when visiting a mutual friend with Sfw, in the glamorous environs of Derby. After a rowdy night out, we returned to our pal's house for a final nightcap, the video came on MTV and we all sat in silence transfixed at the beautiful melodic song emanating from the telly, melting into our disgusting cordial cocktails when the Sax came in. It's sweeping strings and hushed vocals create a real melancholic atmosphere of what I interpret to be about yearning after a high school crush, the pain of wanting to be noticed...hmmm, probably not, what do I know, my record was wholly unspectacular anyway.








'Playground Love' is taken from Air's second album and soundtrack to Sofia Coppola's The Virgin Suicides, it's an all time favourite and without fail, goosepimples me every time. What I didn't realize was that Gordon Tracks, who provided the vocals was a pseudonym used by Thomas Mars, front man for French Indie band, Phoenix. A pleasant surprise then as not only am I a fan, Phoenix have also recorded a fabulous version of 'Playground Love' which may warrant an extra free squeeze from any Wookie you come across.



Phoenix - 'Playground Love'



Check out more of my favourite tracks....here


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Wednesday 20 June 2012

WEDNESDAY CLUB - Tim Rose - Come Away Melinda/Hey Jo

MIDWEEK CRISIS the world  looks grey, come to WEDNESDAY CLUB we've got Tim Rose and a Fireman, they will show you how to see thru Rose tinted glasses.
TIM ROSE - Come Away Melinda(1967)

What an album this song comes from the self Titled 'Tim Rose' from 1967. This is without doubt in my top 10 albums of all time. Everyone is a winner. Tim's version of 'Hey Joe' is apparently where Jimi Hendrix got his inspiration from. I honestly thought he was going to become a superstar after this album, but sadly his follow up  'Throught Rose Tinted Glasses' failed to live up to the expectations. It was a great disappointment. What a fabulous voice he had tho', and this track is chicken skin big time!.

I was going to see Tim up in London in the 2000's but sadly he passed away before I could see him,

I was still in school when this came out and a guy who lived over the fence from me told me he had the album. He said I could tape it at lunch time and he gave me the key to his house.(He took School dinners). I went into his house with my trusty Philips Tape Recorder and he had a thing called a radiogram (do you remember them) I had a direct connection,so the quality would be good (for these days). I was about to tidy up when suddenly the door opened, it was his Fireman father. I don't know whom was more shocked him or me. He certainly did not look too pleased. I bet my friend 'got it' when his father saw him.

'I had it' and I was not disappointed. You should try and get hold of this album especially if only to hear 'Morning Dew'. Here is his version of 'Hey Joe' a must hear also.
TIM ROSE - Hey Joe(1967)


For more WEDNESDAY CLUB steals
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Tuesday 19 June 2012

Tuesday Blues!! Grant Lee Buffalo - Jupiter & Teardrop

Grant Lee Buffalo - Jupiter & Teardrop (1993)  


1993 was a great year for music. Pearl Jam, Counting Crows, Smashing Pumpkins, The Lemonheads, Nirvana, the list goes on and on, but one band really grabbed me, They were Grant Lee Buffalo. A three piece from Los Angeles, they released four albums between 1993 & 1998. I adored their debut 'Fuzzy', songs like 'The Shining Hour','Fuzzy' and 'Jupiter and Teardrop' - you should pick it up if you can! 


 
It wasn't just the songs that appealed to me - it was their 'sound' - as in many ways they were the band that I wanted to be in. Step back 20 years and I was in bands, playing gigs in small clubs, Universities and trying to be the next "Manics" in the South Wales music scene. We were always looking for the next sound - which meant copying the latest bands from the NME. (Ironically this meant you were actually one step behind.)  


I loved how singer Grant Lee Phillips played his 12 string acoustic guitar through a overdrive distortion pedal, and we wrote a number of songs that would utilise this technique. We recorded a few demo's and played a few record company sessions but unfortunately they saw right through us and a deal was never struck. We eventually disbanded and all went on to get day jobs and suppressed our rock star fantasies - I've only recently given up skinny jeans. Nevertheless being part of this scene did allow us to meet a few other bands, one of which did get the magical record deal - one being a band from Cwmaman called "The Tragic Love Company" they signed with V2 and ended up calling themselves the Stereophonics. 


Dreams can come true - if you've got talent! 


Checkout some more talent and subscribe to our Spotify Playlist
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Sunday 17 June 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 17/06/12 - Metric, Beach Boys, Kasabian, Black Lips

FOUR TRACKS THAT WERE THE 'DADDY' FOR US THIS WEEK!!


Flycasual:-
Metric - 'Youth Without Youth' (2012)


'Rock and Roll-ah, rock and roll', I'm ever so slightly uncomfortable with the fact that this track reminds me of Gary Glitter and his hair but it's the first thing I thought of. No issue though, it's a wholesome slice of Electro Pop goodness with the Glam Rock tinged fuzzy guitar riff and stomping beat certainly grabbing my attention this week. It also kind of reminds me a bit of Ladytron or Goldfrapp with guitars. Anyway, 'Youth Without Youth' is taken from the Canadian band's new album Synthetica which is out now.

Support the metric system....Just vist their website, join their gang and get a free download. 


Shell Hunter:-
Kasabian - 'Switchblade Smiles' (2011)


This latest album from Kasabian has been a slow burner for me and although the singles have been catchy, I think that was half the problem. I felt they lacked the hard edge and rawness their previous albums delivered. That was until I heard this track again. The start is superb with masses of deep bass and a guitar riff you can't escape from. On first hearing I thought it sounded like Hot Chip meets the Beastie Boys' Sabotage...a winning combo! It was the first song they premiered for the album Velociraptor! last year and finally it is getting a lot more airplay possibly in preparation for a rerelease. I hope so! If anyone is at the Radio one  Hackney Weekend on the 23rd June, it'll be worth catching Kasabian there!



Old Pa's Corner :-
Beach Boys - Isn't it Time(2012)
Well it's here!  the new Beach Boys album 'That's why God made the radio' and its pretty good too. This track  'Isn't it time'  is my instant favourite, it is vintage Beach Boys, all the harmonies are there, all the sunshine. I have to say, I was a bit dubious when I heard they were recording a new album together, including his Highness Brian Wilson, but I am more than pleasantly surprised with what I have heard so far. Can't wait to give this album a through road test.  As the track says 'The good times don't have to end' well definitely not when we have the Beach Boys. Doobi! doobi! dum!

Good Vibrations!
Sfw:-
Black Lips - Modern Art

It's been a difficult month (musically) for me as I haven't had the time to discover much music.  However, this track by Black Lips has managed to trickle through from my "new music playlist".  Black lips are a Alternative/Punk band from Atlanta, Georgia and this track features on their album Arabia Mountain. Their brash, surf-punk feel made me think of Skateboarding video soundtracks from the 1990's and has made just want to dust off the board and get radical.  Download it through the link below or from RCRDlbl.





Checkout our Track of the Week Spotify Playlist

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Saturday 16 June 2012

SATURDAY NIGHT JUKEBOX! - SL2 - 'On a Ragga Tip'



SL2 - 'On A Ragga Tip' (1992)

Here's a great 90's rave classic for all you mid to late 30 somethings that were probably right bang smack in the middle of all the day-glo t-shirts and neon high tops. The video is a classic too, bad dancing and bad fashion, both of which I thought were cool back then! I've got an entirely different association with this track being quite a bit younger than the original target audience!

Ey Ey buddy call the fashion police!

This song takes me to a happy place. It is a hot and sunny day (as it usually was) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia where I grew up. I was 10 years old and had a friend over for the day. We had planned to go a for a bike ride and I thought it would be really cool if I sticky taped my mini Walkman speakers to the handle bars of my BMX so we could ride to the music. This song sticks in my mind from that tape because I thought to myself with the warm breeze and sun on my face, I'm going to remember this moment forever. I really have! It brought it all back to me too... what does a 10 year old do with their day? Well, it would be cycle to the local supermarket (the good ol' Star Market) and buy a Bear Claw donut and some Sweet Tarts and Nerds for later, hop back on the bike to pick up some friends on their bikes at the other side of the compound, go swimming at the local pool. Then later in the evening mum and dad would order pizza and we'd watch Fern Gully or Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure. Simple minds have simple pleasures but it still sounds like a great day to me!

Hop on your BMX and take a trip down memory lane with Saturday Night Jukebox here!


3 Comments

Thursday 14 June 2012

DYLAN COVERS # 53 ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL - Blonde on Blonde Covered 2 of 3

Stuck inside a Mobile with Cat Power

CAT POWER - Stuck inside a Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again

I went with Cat Power's version from the 'I'm Not There' Soundtrack. Excellent Soundtrack, but if the truth be know the film was disappointing. It had its moments but they were few and far between. Other contenders were again the Grateful Dead and Steve Gibbons. 
BECK - Leopard-Skin-Pill-Box Hat

I like Beck's version from the Album  'War Child - Heroes vol. 1' it does stray away a bit from the original but never the less, I like it and it's my choice, so there. Other ones I considered were versions by Raphael Saddiq and Jimmy Lafave.

RICHIE HAVENS - Just Like a Woman


This was a difficult one as there are so many fantastic covers of this brilliant Dylan song. This version is  Live from 1974 but his studio version taken from the album 'Mixed Bag' (1967) is probably better . There were so many contenders here, Van Morrison, Jo Cocker and Jeff Buckley to name but a few. 

EARL SCRUGGS - Most likely You go Your Way


I love this version taken from the album 'Live at Kansas Stat'(1973) great backing and I just love his voice. Other possibilities were the Nighthawks or the Yardbirds.


DEBORAH COLEMAN - Temporary Like Achilles

This cover is taken from the excellent 'Blues on Blonde on Blonde' it is one of these songs which has not been covered too often. My other choice that I had available was by the Don Olsen Gang, which is more than acceptable too.

Part 3 next week

For More Dylan Covers
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Wednesday 13 June 2012

WEDNESDAY CLUB - Bob Seger - Still The Same

MIDWEEK CRISIS You're alone at Christmas, come to WEDNESDAY CLUB we've got Bob Seger, Muhammed Ali, Jurgen Blin and a Christmas Turkey???


BOB SEGER - Still The Same(1978)

I owed a lot to that little India Store round the corner where I lived in Cranford. It was 1971, I had moved down from Scotland at the beginning of the year. I had changed jobs and now worked at the Airport for British Airways. It was in my 4th different flat in a year. Mostly bad luck rather than me being thrown out. Anyway back to the Indian Store, every time I got off the bus I aways checked their boxes of second hand singles and LPs. I discovered many gems from that shop, thanks guys. A few years later from the same shop I picked up 'Still the Same' by Bob Seger and immediately bought the album.  I have been a long time fan ever since. He is responsible for some good honest rock and a Greatest Hits is essential in any collection.

It was Christmas Time in 71' and 3 of us in the flat were all off on Boxing Day and decided to have an Xmas extravaganza to make up for having to work on the big day. My other two flat mates were going with each other at the time and invited a single girl friend round, hoping to 'match make' for lonely old me.

She was a stunner and we got on really great, everything was going to plan, the pre-drinks, the meal, the paper hats, the jokes, the expensive wine. It was all too good to be true. But there was something niggling me at the back of my mind.

Later the lights were low. we were dancing close, I was really in there. It was then I looked at the clock, I said I had to go into the next room for a while, I needed to watch the big fight, Muhammed Ali verses Jurgen Blin. Ali was on his 'Bum of the Month Tour'. I could not miss it, could I?. Would you?

Ali won of course and when I went back expecting to start where I left off, I was sadly mistaken. She ignored me, there was a cool atmosphere in the room and she left soon after, along with her overnight bag.

A Christmas Turkey!

That's the trouble with girls, they have no sense of occasion, no sense of priorities    
Must have been those night moves

For more Wednesday Club match making
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Tuesday 12 June 2012

TUESDAY BLUES!! City and Colour - The Grand Optimist / Love don't live here anymore

City and Colour - The Grand Optimist / Love don't live here anymore




I recently made a little discovery that made me both smirk, but mostly shake my head. This was the revelation that the phrase "Tuesday Blues" is a "well known phenomenon among Esctasy users that if you spend your weekend up, by the Tuesday you feel depressed" (see the urban dictionary).  Now, I didn't know that.  I just named it Tuesday Blues as I didn't want to call it Monday Blues....but the irony is not lost on me as this outlay mainly contains singer / songwriters, of which the majority have a tinge of melancholy.
City and Colour,City and Colour The Grand Optimist

Anyhow, back to the track's.  City and Colour is the name for former post-hardcore Alexisonfire singer Dallas Green's acoustic / folk music.  The name City and Colour is named after is name - i.e. Dallas (is a) City and Green (is a) colour....which makes sense.  The Grand Optimist features on the 2011 album "Little Hell" which featured the track fragile bird which I featured last year.  If you are not familiar with his material, it's an album that's certainly worth checking out.

Although a lot of his fan base stemmed from his punk days, his crossover and quality can't be denied - he has even got a grin from Neil Young when playing "Old Man" at the 2011 Juno's  which moved him up a couple of pegs in my eyes!  He's also done a great cover of the Rose Royce classic Love Don't Live Here Anymore  which can be seen below.

Checkout more Tuesday Blues posts or the Spotify Playlist here - remember it's a must for those on a come down!

Love Don't Live Here Anymore

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Sunday 10 June 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 10/06/12 - Here We Go Magic, Smoke Fairies, Calexico, Father John Misty



Shell Hunter:-
Calexico - 'Para' (2012)

I was so worried about listening to this new track by Calexico. Would it be good? Would I like it? Would I be disappointed but force myself to like it? My panic was laced with excitement and anticipation......but I knew within the first few seconds that it was a winner! It's dark, eerie and the drama of the trumpets confirms Calexico still have what it takes to captivate me with their alluring and rustic americana sound. The new album called Algiers is set to come out in Europe in early September which is perfect for those of you who will be seeing them on tour (the London date is on September 18th at HMV Forum). Check out their website www.casadecalexico.com for more info and get yourself kitted out in their excellent Mexican Day Of The Dead-esque t-shirts! Download the track for free from Soundcloud below!


Old Pa's Corner:-
Smoke Fairies - Let Me Know (2012)
Do you belive in Fairies?


There seems to be a bit of a buzz about the 'Smoke Fairies' so I thought I would check them out. I was pleasantly surprised. The backing has a nice blusey feel along with nice harmonies and there is a little bit of an edge there too. They had a single out earlier this year 'Strange Moon Rising' and this is pretty good as well. It also helps that they are very pleasing to the eye. They remind me of that great girl band Hazeldine. This is certainly worth further investigation. And yes I do believe in Fairies!!



Sfw:-
Father John Misty - Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings
Father John Misty is the new musical project by former Fleet Foxes drummer and singer/songwriter J.Tillman.  His gentle singing style could grate on some, but I love it. Just stick it on and just enjoy it while you read the sunday papers - it might catch your subconscious and you may want more

This track can be downloaded from the official Sub Pop website here

Flycasual:-
Here We Go Magic - Alone but Moving (2012)


"You'll like this....not a lot but you'll like it!". Stunning dreamy single from the freaky Brooklyn quartet that just seems to slow down the world around you, I just love the synths. Just one of a number of stand out tracks from their 3rd album 'A Different Ship', it's full of quirks and atmospherics and it's my album of the moment (check the fantastic JJ Cale-esque 'Make Up Your Mind'). Much better than an evening with Paul Daniels!!

Here We Go Magic's blog here...

Checkout and subscribe to our Tracks of the Week Playlist here

More tracks of the week? Sure....click here
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Thursday 7 June 2012

DYLAN COVERS # 52 ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL - Blonde on Blonde Covered Pt 1 of 3

A smile of approval, thanks Bob

How do you cover Blonde on Blonde Dylan's Iconic masterpiece from 1966. There are so many great covers to choose from. I was caught between covers that sound like the original or covers that are completely different or simply the bizarre and there are quite a few of them. I decided to play it safe and went for the first one that hit me as I went through all my files of each song. (I may do a bizarre covers of B on B at a later stage).   The problem with B on B is that there are classics and they have many many covers of them and there are the less popular tracks where I have only found 2 or 3 covers. Anyway, I hope you like my choices, I am sure some may not be to your liking  and I am sure you may have chosen some others. Let me know what you think

JIMMY BUFFET - Rainy Day Woman # 12 & 35

Don't really know too much about Jimmy Buffet but this is a live recording, Live at Nissan Pavilion, Bristow, VA on 8/30/08. It  has the same playful feel of the original so I have gone for it.  Tom Petty and Lenny Kravitz were contenders.



LUTHER JOHNSTON - Pledging My Time

Again I am not familiar with Luther Johnston, this is one of the less covered songs but I liked this immediately, it has that edgy feel of the original, it can be found on "All Blues'd Up - Songs Of Bob Dylan" (Tangled Up In Blues)(1999). Duke Robbilard, was my only other option, both are great takes but Luther edged it.


MARIANNE FAITHFUL - Visions of Johanna

I have always loved Marianne Faithful from the early sixties and I think she deserves the  honour of 'Visions of Johanna' which is in my top few Dylan tracks. There are several other great takes but I'm going for this one. Gerry Garcia and the Boys were hard to leave out. Maybe I better do a Volume 2 or should I say 'Blonde and Blonde Covers Revisited'. The MF take can be found on her album 'Rich Kid Blues' (1971)
There are a couple of other Dylan Covers on that one as well.


MICK HUCKNALL - One of us Must Know

I have always loved this song and have quoted it to death through out the years. This may be a surprising choice but believe it or not there are not too many covers out there. I have only 5 in my file. The Boo Radleys were a close second, but I think the production did it for Mick. It is taken from the outstanding (well in parts) 'Chimes of Freedom'(2012)


BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN - I Want You

Yet another classic and I went for an original take by the Boss, a much different and slower version but it loses none of the magic. I was almost going with Steve Gibbons but changed my mind at the last minute.
You can find this on 'Nobody sings Dylan Like the Boss' click for the link.

Part 2 Next Week

For more Dylan Covers 



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THURSDAY I'M IN LOVE - Smashing Pumpkins - '1979'

THURSDAY I'M IN LOVE!! A CHANCE FOR ME TO SHARE SOME OF MY AUBERGINE PARMIGIANA!!



Smashing Pumpkins - '1979' (1996)

This track pretty much trumped everything else that was released that summer. I was never really a big fan of the Smashing Pumpkins but for me this ticked all my boxes from it's build up to when the beat kicks in, the bassline and that voice sample. It was also a great video, the skull in the car moving in time to the beat, the care free nature of the song summing up perfectly how I felt that summer.


Smashing Pumpkins....waiting patiently for some Pappardelle Arabiata!

It reminds me of my friends I made when I worked on Eurostar. It was a small group of probably about 10 and we worked with each other pretty much for about a year together so we were close knit. Piling late into a pub near Waterloo after work, we'd hog the pool table and jukebox where this song was played on repeat. After last orders we'd probably go to a friends house, hopefully to my Italian buddy who'd whip up some delicious Sicilian dish out of nowhere, molto bene!! Happy memories, courtesy of the Smashing Pumpkins!

Check out the Smashing Pumpkins official site

More of my favourite tracks....indulge yourself....
or have a listen to my Spotify playlist...
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Wednesday 6 June 2012

WEDNESDAY CLUB - Squeeze - Up the Junction

MIDWEEK CRISIS your are up the duff, come to WEDNESDAY  CLUB we've got Squeeze, and it is my assumption you  really are up the Junction

Beggings not my business



SQUEEZE - Up the Junction(1978)

Every now and again you here a song and it makes you just 'weak in the ears' 'Up the Junction' is one of theses songs for me! Every time I hear it I get all gooey and sentimental. Even Old Pa has got feelings you know!

I just love this song, it has got everything for me, great story line, great backing, To me this is 'street poetry'. I can identify with our hero, the times. The whole thing evokes great memories of the classic British films of the 60's which were black and white, stark and just told the story of the hard times experienced in the early 60's. Try watching 'Saturday Night, Sunday Morning', 'Poor Cow', 'A kind of Loving' and of course 'Up the Junction' to name but a few.  If you ever get a chance to see these brilliant films please do so. You won't be disappointed. They are a beautiful time capsule of a time that either you remember or your Dad and Mum lived.


Back to Squeeze. I have been a fan since I saw the Picture Cover (above) for 'Up the Junction' back in 1978 while browsing in Woolworth's. It has one of my favourite song endings, I just wish that it would go on for ever and I have been a Squeeze fan ever since.

Talking about endings have You a favourite? Here are a couple that got me 'Tunnel of love' by Dire Straits, 'Ceremony/In a Lonely Place' by New Order, 'The White Room' by Cream Especially the Live Version . 'Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands' by Bob Dylan and of course my favourite ending of all time 'You set the Scene' by Love (Click to hear).

Check out a 'Best of Squeeze'. You can't go wrong there.


For more WEDNESDAY CLUB Cool for Cats
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Tuesday 5 June 2012

TUESDAY BLUES!!! Vetiver - Worse for Wear

Vetiver - Worse for Wear











Vetiver are an American indie folk band from San Fransisco. They've released over five albums, most recently 2011's The Errant Charm, the album of which this song features on. It is an album that, at first, didn't do much. But it became a slow burner and ended up being one of my favourite albums of last year.



It worth checking them out and also a notable cover of the late great John Martyn's "Go Easy" which was on the 2011 tribute album "Johnny Boy Would Love This (album)"

We've all been "worse for wear" - too many to count and too many to remember. However, a particular low-light must be drinking far too much and falling asleep in the bathroom. Only to wake up leaning against the radiator, which was sleeping on! I still have the scar.  It could have been worse - as only my shoulder has the mark  - it could have easily been my head!

Checkout our Tuesday Blues Spotify Playlist, perfect for late nights or rainy days


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Sunday 3 June 2012

TRACKS OF THE WEEK - 03/06/12 - Cut Chemist, The Falls, Ultravox, Scissor Sisters


FOUR DIAMOND TRACKS THAT WILL BE BOOMING FROM THE BUCKINGHAM PALACE SOUNDSYSTEM THIS WEEKEND!


Old Pa's Corner:-
Ultravox - Brilliant(2012)
Shine your bright new star


I am sure a lot of you will have heard this, it is a single from the new Ultravox album 'Brilliant'(2012) there first for about 30 years. I have just heard it and it was a pleasure to hear that great 80's sound. This is no cash in quick buck album. I have listened to the whole album once and was really impressed, there are little or no fillers. It has gone straight on to my 'Ipodish' thing ready for a dog walk. A great honour indeed. I had a soft spot for the boys in the early eighties and remember buying the singles 'Vienna' and 'In the Air tonight' at the same time. Two classics.
All I can say about this track is that it is 'excellent', you thought I was going to say 'Brilliant' did't you?


Sfw:-
The Falls - Home (2012)



Checkout The Falls excellent debut single 'Home' - it's perfect Indie-Folk! Apparently, they met, fell in love, wrote songs, fought, made up, broke up and wrote songs, which by anyone standards is impressive!  I'll be watching out for more! 






 Flycasual:-
Cut Chemist - Outro feat Blackbird


Splendid Punk/Rap effort from the one time Jurassic 5 DJ, featuring LA alt-rapper, Blackbird, released earlier this year. It's taken from his new album 'Die Cut', his first solo recording in 6 years due to working on other projects and the small fact that he was also 'doing time' (I'm not sure what for). An inspiration for this song, as the hectic, almost furious pace is supposed to signify being on the run, after fantasising about making a great escape.

Cut Chemist official site here...

Shell Hunter:-
Scissor Sisters - 'Let's Have A Kiki' (2012)


So what's a kiki? Well it's very fitting for this jubilee weekend! It'a a party for all you (drag) Queens out there! I love this track from the Sisters' new album Magic Hour released earlier this year. Its full of the gay club beats that we used to love about the Scissor Sisters in the first place. I was a huge fan a while back but I thought they lost there way until I heard this track. Now its definitely something that I can see being played loud in the clubs and love the voicemail message being left for a 'girlfriend'. Mmm Hmm honey, lets get our asses up and ready for this Kiki!

Check out the Scissor Sister's website here to see tour dates and click here to download the track for free from prostopleer.com!
More tracks of the week here!
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Saturday 2 June 2012

SATURDAY NIGHT JUKEBOX! - Goldie Lookin Chain - 'Roller Disco'




Goldie Lookin Chain - 'Roller Disco' (2004)

I'm pretty excited to announce I will be reliving my youth next Friday at a Roller Disco party! I don't think I've been on skates for about 18 years but back then the Roller Disco was really the place to be as Welsh comedy hip hoppers GLC so eloquently put it, in this brilliant track. It's like a check list of everything cool from the 80's...chopper bicycles, Panini stickers, sticking tattoos to your face and of course roller disco! If you like the clever quips in this track, check out their Greatest Hits, a lot of funny moments!

GLC...safe as f**k!

I may not have frequented Maskell's in Wales as they did but growing up in Saudi Arabia we still had Roller disco every week. There was the actual roller skating "rink", a massive outdoor open air pitch, the snow cone stand (an absolute must especially the raspberry and blueberry mix) and the area next to the huge speakers which was adopted by the local arab youths as the breakdance and running man arena (fat Albert and Co, where are you now?). I have fantastic memories of roller disco, I learned to skate there with the yellow plastic roller skates that attached to the bottom of your shoes. The wheels didn't even bloody turn! Some weeks you could volunteer to help out either at the pay table or with the games, putting out cones or holding the limbo pole. I remember winning at limbo once too, I got the coolest prize...bright red fold up sunglasses!

Sadly there is no video to the song, but it really is worth a listen to the lyrics, it'll bring you back to the best days growing up in the 80's. I can't wait to see how crap I am on skates after all these years!

Wednesday Night NC6 was the place to be!


More Saturday Night Jukebox here?....You knows it!


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