Yep, new Paypal account and I'm back on ebay looking for that elusive Iruka plushie. And a new watch. And anything else that catches my eye (hey, its ebay).
You Don't Know Jack February 28th 2007
Category: I'm Not Dead Yet! Oh, Yep, I Am.
Score: $2,504
Game Rank: 29th
Overall Rank: 834th
All my scores are now recorded forever.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Albums Of The Month: March
Its March soon. Here are the CDs which are making your wallet lighter next month.
5th March
Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
There has to be a gap. Nothing can take away the importance and anticipation that surrounds this album.
Grinderman - Grinderman
Idlewild - Make Another World
Air - Pocket Symphony
Mr Hudson And The Library - A Tale Of Two Cities
Willy Mason - If The Ocean Gets Rough
Charlotte Hatherley - The Deep Blue
Various - Power Rangers: Songs From The TV Series (I just came a little)
12th March
LCD Soundsystem - Sound Of Silver
19th March
Enter Shikari - Take To The Skies
Good Charlotte - Good Morning Revival
Feeder - Picture Of Perfect Youth
The Rakes - Ten New Messages
The Bees - Octopus
26th March
Madina Lake - From Them, Through Us, To You
Good Shoes - Think Before You Speak
The Draytones - Forever On
Radiohead - Airbag/How Am I Driving
Call your bank manager, its going to be a busy month.
Next Month
In April the assault continues with indie darlings Fields, hillybilly kings Kings Of Leon, combover kings Maximo Park, apocolypse loving Nine Inch Nails, acoustic lovliness from Mark Ronson, brass loving Bright Eyes and no doubt mmmbop hating by now Hanson. Then come the big 2.
Arctic Monkeys.
James.
This is why we love music.
5th March
Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
There has to be a gap. Nothing can take away the importance and anticipation that surrounds this album.
Grinderman - Grinderman
Idlewild - Make Another World
Air - Pocket Symphony
Mr Hudson And The Library - A Tale Of Two Cities
Willy Mason - If The Ocean Gets Rough
Charlotte Hatherley - The Deep Blue
Various - Power Rangers: Songs From The TV Series (I just came a little)
12th March
LCD Soundsystem - Sound Of Silver
19th March
Enter Shikari - Take To The Skies
Good Charlotte - Good Morning Revival
Feeder - Picture Of Perfect Youth
The Rakes - Ten New Messages
The Bees - Octopus
26th March
Madina Lake - From Them, Through Us, To You
Good Shoes - Think Before You Speak
The Draytones - Forever On
Radiohead - Airbag/How Am I Driving
Call your bank manager, its going to be a busy month.
Next Month
In April the assault continues with indie darlings Fields, hillybilly kings Kings Of Leon, combover kings Maximo Park, apocolypse loving Nine Inch Nails, acoustic lovliness from Mark Ronson, brass loving Bright Eyes and no doubt mmmbop hating by now Hanson. Then come the big 2.
Arctic Monkeys.
James.
This is why we love music.
Upgrade
2mb internet now.
You Don't Know Jack February 27th 2007
Category: Yoga? NO-ga!
Score: $3,010
Game Ranking: 5th!
I like these scores.
NEW!
The scoreboard and stat-machine is now active on the YDKJ site! Now if you sign up your first score from each game is stored and put on the Uberboard!
Also added a new link.
Links>Blogs
Valleywag
www.valleywag.com
Part of the Gawker lot. The seedy underbelly of Silicon Valley.
You Don't Know Jack February 27th 2007
Category: Yoga? NO-ga!
Score: $3,010
Game Ranking: 5th!
I like these scores.
NEW!
The scoreboard and stat-machine is now active on the YDKJ site! Now if you sign up your first score from each game is stored and put on the Uberboard!
Also added a new link.
Links>Blogs
Valleywag
www.valleywag.com
Part of the Gawker lot. The seedy underbelly of Silicon Valley.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Review - Yours Truly, Angry Mob
Album Info Box
Title: Yours Truly, Angry Mob
Artist: Kaiser Chiefs
Label: B-Unique
Band Members: Ricky Wilson, Whitey, Simon Rix, Peanut, Nick Hodgson
I Predict A Riot, Na Na Na Na Naa, Everyday I Love You Less And Less, Oh My God. One thing unites these 4 tracks and singles from the first album from this lot, the multi-platinum, world conquering Employment.
WHOOAAAAA!!
What started as a way for Ricky to fill time during a guitar solo became the Kaiser's trademark. They were the band with the 'whoa' factor. People therefore ignored my personal favourite single, Modern Way because it seemed like it lacked something. There was no whoa. It also required lungs of steel to sing properly, but mostly it was the whoa thing. Then there was I Predict A Riot re-release b-side Sink That Ship. There were ooooh's, but not whoa's. The whoa has not been a constant staple of Kaiser Chiefs songs. So if you like the whoa, steer clear of this because its nowhere to be found.
This isn't a new Kaiser Chiefs, but they're more serious. This is their rant against Britain in 2006/7 but unlike Bloc Party they can't go after the casual sex, drug use, sexuality issues etc because they're the nice family friendly Kaiser Chiefs. Not even a photo of all 5 of them looking nice and serious on the cover can change this. They can't go after the clubbing scene because that's how they got their break in the first place and they glorified it on Employment. In a way they've painted themselves into a corner when it comes to an angry album.
But they aren't angry by themselves. They're angry at other angry people. Namely, The Angry Mob who Ricky said are Daily Mail readers. As the album starts though you won't care about that because you'll be too busy creaming your pants courtesy of the megariff that introduces the 2007 Kaiser Chiefs collection. Their first number one and deservedly so, Ruby.
Following Ruby isn't easy, but The Angry Mob tries its best. After the opening it falls a bit flat being nowhere near as singalong or musical as the single. It however serves as a nice 5 minute lull to clean the aforementioned creamed-by-riff pants in preparation for Heat Dies Down. Another colossal intro with another sublime chorus it played the part of single-in-waiting to perfection.
Things don't slow down for Highroyds. A song about a council estate supposedly and with lots of whooping in the intro (not whoa's). Musically its sound (very sound) but lyrically things are starting to look a bit thin. They've stepped on the wet paint they used to get into that corner by suddenly deciding that nights out aren't very good after all. This makes things start to look a little bit put on and fake, ranting for ranting's sake. Its an enjoyable song but it leaves a very bad taste in the mouth.
So its quickly scarpering back to safe territory and Love's Not A Competition (But I'm Winning). A song changed because it was sounding too much like Coldplay. As its appeared here, it still sounds like it would fit right in on X&Y. It even sounds like they've pinched some effect pedals from Martin and co.
So after a strong start the whole thing's starting to fall apart, thankfully Thank You Very Much brings it back. A graceful acceptance of fame but still protesting the importance of moving on. This is more like it and sounds a lot more honest than Highroyds, thus restoring a bit of credibility to the record. At under 3 minutes it does drag either like a few tracks before it have.
The intro to I Can Do It Without You sounds like it could soundtrack a country drama, but that thought subsides quickly. That's because its replaced by another lingering thought along the lines of 'this sounds a bit like Coldplay'. That thought subsides quickly too though and for one good reason, this song is a complete nothing. No excitement, no feeling, no nothing.
Round 8 then and My Kind Of Guy. By this point I'm worried, the album has yet to reclaim the peaks of its opening track. This is promising though, a menacing riff couples with a menacing tale about someone who could only be described as a nasty piece of work. This is much better than the dirge that preceeded it.
Speaking of better, then comes Everything Is Average Nowadays. A criticism that could potentially be levelled at some of the songs on this album but not this one. This is pure Enjoyment and that is not down to Whitey's guitar but Peanut's keyboard. You'll be humming this one a lot and its highly reassuring.
Less reassuring is the opening to Boxing Champ, piano is good on a Keane record, but not a KC record. This is this album's Team Mate, a small interlude before the final assault. In a way, its a bit too short.
Intro to Learnt My Lesson Well is pure Hodgson, all drums and that sound stays dominant even after Whitey comes in. A song about control of money and being brought down to earth with a smash when that doesn't quite work out. Its a good song but like so many on this album it drags on for far longer than it should.
The penultimate track on the album, Try Your Best is positioned perfectly. Closer to the spirit of Team Mate as far as melody and sound goes, it surpasses its cousin with relative ease and even goes a bit Modern Way in the second half. This is almost pure-Blur and that is a very, very good thing.
At last, after 41 minutes we come to Retirement. A desire to be remembered seeps through this song like a rag soaked in chloroform. Musically and lyrically its strong, even choice in places but yet again its just too. Damn. Long.
Like Bloc Party, the Kaisers have failed to beat their first album. They've not just fallen short though, they're worryingly wide of the mark. KC have overreached themselves and stumbled horribly, its painful to say but this is nowhere near the glory that was all of Employment.
In One Line
A choppy album with some flashes of brilliance, but overall a major disappointment.
Six (6)
Title: Yours Truly, Angry Mob
Artist: Kaiser Chiefs
Label: B-Unique
Band Members: Ricky Wilson, Whitey, Simon Rix, Peanut, Nick Hodgson
I Predict A Riot, Na Na Na Na Naa, Everyday I Love You Less And Less, Oh My God. One thing unites these 4 tracks and singles from the first album from this lot, the multi-platinum, world conquering Employment.
WHOOAAAAA!!
What started as a way for Ricky to fill time during a guitar solo became the Kaiser's trademark. They were the band with the 'whoa' factor. People therefore ignored my personal favourite single, Modern Way because it seemed like it lacked something. There was no whoa. It also required lungs of steel to sing properly, but mostly it was the whoa thing. Then there was I Predict A Riot re-release b-side Sink That Ship. There were ooooh's, but not whoa's. The whoa has not been a constant staple of Kaiser Chiefs songs. So if you like the whoa, steer clear of this because its nowhere to be found.
This isn't a new Kaiser Chiefs, but they're more serious. This is their rant against Britain in 2006/7 but unlike Bloc Party they can't go after the casual sex, drug use, sexuality issues etc because they're the nice family friendly Kaiser Chiefs. Not even a photo of all 5 of them looking nice and serious on the cover can change this. They can't go after the clubbing scene because that's how they got their break in the first place and they glorified it on Employment. In a way they've painted themselves into a corner when it comes to an angry album.
But they aren't angry by themselves. They're angry at other angry people. Namely, The Angry Mob who Ricky said are Daily Mail readers. As the album starts though you won't care about that because you'll be too busy creaming your pants courtesy of the megariff that introduces the 2007 Kaiser Chiefs collection. Their first number one and deservedly so, Ruby.
Following Ruby isn't easy, but The Angry Mob tries its best. After the opening it falls a bit flat being nowhere near as singalong or musical as the single. It however serves as a nice 5 minute lull to clean the aforementioned creamed-by-riff pants in preparation for Heat Dies Down. Another colossal intro with another sublime chorus it played the part of single-in-waiting to perfection.
Things don't slow down for Highroyds. A song about a council estate supposedly and with lots of whooping in the intro (not whoa's). Musically its sound (very sound) but lyrically things are starting to look a bit thin. They've stepped on the wet paint they used to get into that corner by suddenly deciding that nights out aren't very good after all. This makes things start to look a little bit put on and fake, ranting for ranting's sake. Its an enjoyable song but it leaves a very bad taste in the mouth.
So its quickly scarpering back to safe territory and Love's Not A Competition (But I'm Winning). A song changed because it was sounding too much like Coldplay. As its appeared here, it still sounds like it would fit right in on X&Y. It even sounds like they've pinched some effect pedals from Martin and co.
So after a strong start the whole thing's starting to fall apart, thankfully Thank You Very Much brings it back. A graceful acceptance of fame but still protesting the importance of moving on. This is more like it and sounds a lot more honest than Highroyds, thus restoring a bit of credibility to the record. At under 3 minutes it does drag either like a few tracks before it have.
The intro to I Can Do It Without You sounds like it could soundtrack a country drama, but that thought subsides quickly. That's because its replaced by another lingering thought along the lines of 'this sounds a bit like Coldplay'. That thought subsides quickly too though and for one good reason, this song is a complete nothing. No excitement, no feeling, no nothing.
Round 8 then and My Kind Of Guy. By this point I'm worried, the album has yet to reclaim the peaks of its opening track. This is promising though, a menacing riff couples with a menacing tale about someone who could only be described as a nasty piece of work. This is much better than the dirge that preceeded it.
Speaking of better, then comes Everything Is Average Nowadays. A criticism that could potentially be levelled at some of the songs on this album but not this one. This is pure Enjoyment and that is not down to Whitey's guitar but Peanut's keyboard. You'll be humming this one a lot and its highly reassuring.
Less reassuring is the opening to Boxing Champ, piano is good on a Keane record, but not a KC record. This is this album's Team Mate, a small interlude before the final assault. In a way, its a bit too short.
Intro to Learnt My Lesson Well is pure Hodgson, all drums and that sound stays dominant even after Whitey comes in. A song about control of money and being brought down to earth with a smash when that doesn't quite work out. Its a good song but like so many on this album it drags on for far longer than it should.
The penultimate track on the album, Try Your Best is positioned perfectly. Closer to the spirit of Team Mate as far as melody and sound goes, it surpasses its cousin with relative ease and even goes a bit Modern Way in the second half. This is almost pure-Blur and that is a very, very good thing.
At last, after 41 minutes we come to Retirement. A desire to be remembered seeps through this song like a rag soaked in chloroform. Musically and lyrically its strong, even choice in places but yet again its just too. Damn. Long.
Like Bloc Party, the Kaisers have failed to beat their first album. They've not just fallen short though, they're worryingly wide of the mark. KC have overreached themselves and stumbled horribly, its painful to say but this is nowhere near the glory that was all of Employment.
In One Line
A choppy album with some flashes of brilliance, but overall a major disappointment.
Six (6)
Ripping
Very slowly, I started ripping the new Kaiser Chiefs album (which I bought today) when I got home at around 6pm. Its now 8pm and its still going. I hate ripping CDs now.
Payday on Friday, day off tomorrow so probably some sort of Canadian Adventure update sometime this week as well as Albums Of The Month for March before the actual month hits on Thursday.
You Don't Know Jack February 26th 2007
Category: Domestic Aren'tners
Score: $2,428
Get your maths hat on for this one.
Payday on Friday, day off tomorrow so probably some sort of Canadian Adventure update sometime this week as well as Albums Of The Month for March before the actual month hits on Thursday.
You Don't Know Jack February 26th 2007
Category: Domestic Aren'tners
Score: $2,428
Get your maths hat on for this one.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
The Charts - February 25th 2007
Well lets see what's what shall we? Last week's positions in brackets. Info from BBC Radio 1.
The Official UK Top 10 Singles
1: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby (2)
2: Mika - Grace Kelly (1)
3: Kelis ft. Cee-Lo - Lil Star (15)
4: Akon ft. Snoop Dogg - I Wanna Love You (NE)
5: The Fray - How To Save A Life (NE)
6: Just Jack - Stars In Their Eyes (4)
7: Gwen Stefani ft. Akon - The Sweet Escape (NE)
8: Sophie Ellis Bextor - Catch You (24)
9: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (5)
10: Take That - Shine (11)
HE'S GONE!! MIKA HAS FALLEN!! The Kaisers take him down after 6 weeks on top to claim their first #1. We're not safe yet though...
The Official Album Chart
1: Amy Winehouse - Back To Black (2)
2: Mika - Life In Cartoon Motion (1)
3: Snow Patrol - Eyes Open (3)
4: The Fray - How To Save A Life (NE)
5: Take That - Beautiful World (5)
HE'S GONE THERE TOO!! Mika's gone, we're all safe people. No more danger from him.
Next Week
Kaiser Chiefs do the album and single double because there's no competition whatsoever. There are a few albums worth picking up though. Patrick Wolf puts out his third album named The Magic Position and er...that's it.
Nevermind, Arcade Fire and Willy Mason in 8 days.
The Official UK Top 10 Singles
1: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby (2)
2: Mika - Grace Kelly (1)
3: Kelis ft. Cee-Lo - Lil Star (15)
4: Akon ft. Snoop Dogg - I Wanna Love You (NE)
5: The Fray - How To Save A Life (NE)
6: Just Jack - Stars In Their Eyes (4)
7: Gwen Stefani ft. Akon - The Sweet Escape (NE)
8: Sophie Ellis Bextor - Catch You (24)
9: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (5)
10: Take That - Shine (11)
HE'S GONE!! MIKA HAS FALLEN!! The Kaisers take him down after 6 weeks on top to claim their first #1. We're not safe yet though...
The Official Album Chart
1: Amy Winehouse - Back To Black (2)
2: Mika - Life In Cartoon Motion (1)
3: Snow Patrol - Eyes Open (3)
4: The Fray - How To Save A Life (NE)
5: Take That - Beautiful World (5)
HE'S GONE THERE TOO!! Mika's gone, we're all safe people. No more danger from him.
Next Week
Kaiser Chiefs do the album and single double because there's no competition whatsoever. There are a few albums worth picking up though. Patrick Wolf puts out his third album named The Magic Position and er...that's it.
Nevermind, Arcade Fire and Willy Mason in 8 days.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Life In A Day-Glo Shadow
If you're wondering what's on here, here's the tracks and why I like them.
1: Hadouken! vs Bloc Party - The Prayer
Supposedly better than Test Icicles according to NME, former favourite band of the Pop Justice blog Hadouken turn their remixing skills to Bloc Party's comeback single. More of an ego trip in the added lyrics but the beat is good, the remix is sound and James' rap skills are as sharp as ever.
2: Like Woah! - Space Disco
Not everyone will like this song I admit. I might actually be the only one but its a good slice of electronica to wind down from track 1.
3: :( - Twin Chevron Action
:( or Colon Open Bracket make some of the best electronic music with lyrics I've heard in a long time. Not loud or manic, but still a great track. A tough choice for which of their songs to include here, they also have a good song in 'Cute' and 'Hunt Hunters' from the Mighty Moshin' Emo Rangers soundtrack.
4: Crystal Castles - Xxzxczx Me
A track title its impossible to say aloud. These guys a) take their name from an ancient videogame and b) are Canadian and c) make some rather nutty music. If you like your electronica shouty, you'll like this.
5: Los Camesinos - You! Me! Dancing!
NME Radar band and worthily so. A little slow to get starting but it compensates for the relative shortness of the previous tracks without getting stale, a nice little slice of pop music.
6: Bolt Action Five - Gurl Howl
If the riff in this song doesn't get you going then you're dead. Playing The Herdsman in March.
7: Beans on Toast - Myspace Picture
If you like Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly then you'll find lots to like here. A beautiful ironic rant about the social networking site. Just don't call him a Myspace star if he gets big.
8: Lost Penguin - Encyclopedia of Monsters
Hard to describe, try for yourself.
9: Shut Your Eyes And You'll Burst Into Flames - Signal Noise
Signed to indie superstar label Dance To The Radio and pinch lyrics off The Automatic. Works for me.
10: Sky Larkin - Somersault Notes
Not their best song, but one I liked and could download. More proof that ladies are better indie singers than guys.
11: Test Icicles - The Plague + Pestilence
This is why TI are (were?) the best band in the world.
Download link's at the top, enjoy.
1: Hadouken! vs Bloc Party - The Prayer
Supposedly better than Test Icicles according to NME, former favourite band of the Pop Justice blog Hadouken turn their remixing skills to Bloc Party's comeback single. More of an ego trip in the added lyrics but the beat is good, the remix is sound and James' rap skills are as sharp as ever.
2: Like Woah! - Space Disco
Not everyone will like this song I admit. I might actually be the only one but its a good slice of electronica to wind down from track 1.
3: :( - Twin Chevron Action
:( or Colon Open Bracket make some of the best electronic music with lyrics I've heard in a long time. Not loud or manic, but still a great track. A tough choice for which of their songs to include here, they also have a good song in 'Cute' and 'Hunt Hunters' from the Mighty Moshin' Emo Rangers soundtrack.
4: Crystal Castles - Xxzxczx Me
A track title its impossible to say aloud. These guys a) take their name from an ancient videogame and b) are Canadian and c) make some rather nutty music. If you like your electronica shouty, you'll like this.
5: Los Camesinos - You! Me! Dancing!
NME Radar band and worthily so. A little slow to get starting but it compensates for the relative shortness of the previous tracks without getting stale, a nice little slice of pop music.
6: Bolt Action Five - Gurl Howl
If the riff in this song doesn't get you going then you're dead. Playing The Herdsman in March.
7: Beans on Toast - Myspace Picture
If you like Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly then you'll find lots to like here. A beautiful ironic rant about the social networking site. Just don't call him a Myspace star if he gets big.
8: Lost Penguin - Encyclopedia of Monsters
Hard to describe, try for yourself.
9: Shut Your Eyes And You'll Burst Into Flames - Signal Noise
Signed to indie superstar label Dance To The Radio and pinch lyrics off The Automatic. Works for me.
10: Sky Larkin - Somersault Notes
Not their best song, but one I liked and could download. More proof that ladies are better indie singers than guys.
11: Test Icicles - The Plague + Pestilence
This is why TI are (were?) the best band in the world.
Download link's at the top, enjoy.
Tears Of Joy
Sonic And The Secret Rings
Developer: Sega
Format: Nintendo Wii
Gamerankings: 76%
Metacritic: 75
ITS GOOD!! Sega have finally produced a good 3D Sonic game! True, good but not great but I really don't think anyone cares about that. Sonic can be done properly in 3D! This makes me feel slightly less dirty for playing the Sonic The Hedgehog demo on the 360. I seriously wept slightly with pure joy at seeing this result.
You Don't Know Jack February 23rd 2007
Category: I'd Like To Thank My Metamucil
Score: $3,410
I DROPPED AN EASY ONE! IT COULD HAVE BEEN SEVEN!
Developer: Sega
Format: Nintendo Wii
Gamerankings: 76%
Metacritic: 75
ITS GOOD!! Sega have finally produced a good 3D Sonic game! True, good but not great but I really don't think anyone cares about that. Sonic can be done properly in 3D! This makes me feel slightly less dirty for playing the Sonic The Hedgehog demo on the 360. I seriously wept slightly with pure joy at seeing this result.
You Don't Know Jack February 23rd 2007
Category: I'd Like To Thank My Metamucil
Score: $3,410
I DROPPED AN EASY ONE! IT COULD HAVE BEEN SEVEN!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Mixtape Bitches
Life In A Day-Glo Shadow
11 Tracks
12 Bands
Download Here
http://www.savefile.com/files/510934
I'll explain in more detail later.
11 Tracks
12 Bands
Download Here
http://www.savefile.com/files/510934
I'll explain in more detail later.
Today
Last 3 chapters of Shiawase Cook released by super-scan team Attractive Fasciente (I think), clip of The Con Test Austrailia (AU Pokerface) on Youtube, lots more Youtube stuff to do later and a big thing to come from me sometime before the end of the month which I'll talk more about later.
You Don't Know Jack February 22nd 2007
Category: Yesh Mishter Preshident?
Score: $2,535
You Don't Know Jack February 22nd 2007
Category: Yesh Mishter Preshident?
Score: $2,535
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Refit
So, 2 bands who've both been mentioned in the same breath as the saints of indie-rave-thrash-metal Test Icicles. Hadouken and Klaxons. I don't know which one I prefer, but there's a track on this here page that makes it easier.
www.myspace.com/hadoukenremixes
Listen to Klaxons Remix, a superb rework of Atlantis To Interzone. Also download the remix of The Prayer by Bloc Party.
You Don't Know Jack February 21st 2007
Category: That Hard To Reach Dead Demographic
Score: $2,227
www.myspace.com/hadoukenremixes
Listen to Klaxons Remix, a superb rework of Atlantis To Interzone. Also download the remix of The Prayer by Bloc Party.
You Don't Know Jack February 21st 2007
Category: That Hard To Reach Dead Demographic
Score: $2,227
Music Is My Hot Hot Sex
Yeah, its a CSS song. Only 2 weeks until the album is re-released and I allow myself to get it. Then the new Kaiser Chiefs album, then Arcade Fire, Manic Street Preachers (tour sold out already), The Twang, The Enemy, Maximo Park, Charlotte Hatherley etc. Too many albums whichever way you look at it.
I gave in and will now admit that I have been forced by the part of my brain that loves music to like Hadouken. But I still won't use the exclaimation mark. That Boy That Girl has slightly reawakened the songwriting part of the same brain, eventually I'll be able to put a decent rhyme together and I'll write a decent anti-scene song. I was thinking 'Blondie' or 'Circulation' as I walked back up the hill after lunch and after seeing 2 damn-near identical scene kids within 2 minutes. I'd start writing now if I hadn't lost my damn pen.
I haven't listened to the Get Cape album in a while. Not fully anyway so I'm doing it right now, I like going back to albums after a little while away. All the songs sound so fresh yet naturally given my almost computer style skill at memorising lyrics all still well worth a singalong. With songs that make me feel as warm and comfortable as the ones on this album that's pretty simple to initiate.
NME hit The Horrors' album hard for a 7/10. A band with only one type of song and only 2 chords. I don't have to buy it then. Charlotte Hatherley's album got 7 as well.
I gave in and will now admit that I have been forced by the part of my brain that loves music to like Hadouken. But I still won't use the exclaimation mark. That Boy That Girl has slightly reawakened the songwriting part of the same brain, eventually I'll be able to put a decent rhyme together and I'll write a decent anti-scene song. I was thinking 'Blondie' or 'Circulation' as I walked back up the hill after lunch and after seeing 2 damn-near identical scene kids within 2 minutes. I'd start writing now if I hadn't lost my damn pen.
I haven't listened to the Get Cape album in a while. Not fully anyway so I'm doing it right now, I like going back to albums after a little while away. All the songs sound so fresh yet naturally given my almost computer style skill at memorising lyrics all still well worth a singalong. With songs that make me feel as warm and comfortable as the ones on this album that's pretty simple to initiate.
NME hit The Horrors' album hard for a 7/10. A band with only one type of song and only 2 chords. I don't have to buy it then. Charlotte Hatherley's album got 7 as well.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Playlist: Jaded Elitists
I really got taken down last night in the Anime North chatroom. After the conversation the night before came to the conclusion that people who cosplay but don't enter the skit contest are merely providing wank material (he should write for Kotaku) the next day came to trashing the popular cosplay ideas (Naruto basically) and spoilers. I'm just leaving now every time that one person enters. So what music do you use to pick yourself up from a massive hit to the excitement gland like that?
Playlist: Jaded Elitists
1: Willy Mason - Save Myself
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
3: The Cribs - Mirror Kissers
4: Biffy Clyro - Saturday Superhouse
5: Billy Talent - Fallen Leaves
6: Fall Out Boy - Sugar We're Going Down
7: CSS - Off The Hook
8: Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly - The Chronicles Of A Bohemian Teenager Part 1
9: Fightstar - Waste A Moment
10: Funeral For A Friend - Monsters
11: The Maccabees - About Your Dress
12: Klaxons - Magick
13: Bloc Party - Hunting For Witches
13 songs, all bringing you back up after a heavy knock to the ground.
Playlist: Jaded Elitists
1: Willy Mason - Save Myself
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
3: The Cribs - Mirror Kissers
4: Biffy Clyro - Saturday Superhouse
5: Billy Talent - Fallen Leaves
6: Fall Out Boy - Sugar We're Going Down
7: CSS - Off The Hook
8: Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly - The Chronicles Of A Bohemian Teenager Part 1
9: Fightstar - Waste A Moment
10: Funeral For A Friend - Monsters
11: The Maccabees - About Your Dress
12: Klaxons - Magick
13: Bloc Party - Hunting For Witches
13 songs, all bringing you back up after a heavy knock to the ground.
Top Of The Chain
Listening to the Editors album for the first time in ages. It seems a lot better than I remember. New one's out later this year.
You Don't Know Jack February 20th 2007
Category: Here Comes Stubble
Score: $2,241
Exactly $7 more than yesterday.
You Don't Know Jack February 20th 2007
Category: Here Comes Stubble
Score: $2,241
Exactly $7 more than yesterday.
Monday, February 19, 2007
President's Day
Or 'I'm fucking knackered and need to go to sleep' day. Also 'I'm really horny and need to fucking wank' day. Oh wait, that's every day.
You Don't Know Jack February 19th 2007
Category: Am I The Only One At Work Today?
Score: $2,234
You Don't Know Jack February 19th 2007
Category: Am I The Only One At Work Today?
Score: $2,234
Sunday, February 18, 2007
The Charts - February 18th 2007
So Sunday comes. Who's where in the official UK chart? Last week's position is in brackets.
1: Mika - Grace Kelly (1)
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby (2)
3: Snoop Dogg ft. Akon - Let Me Love You (9)
4: Just Jack - Stars In Their Eyes (3)
5: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (4)
Fuck.
Other Notables
7: The Fray - How To Save A Life
10: Take That - Patience
11: Take That - Shine
12: Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
13: The View - Same Jeans
17: The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control
21: Bloc Party - The Prayer
22: Amy Winehouse - Rehab
23: Klaxons - Golden Skans
26: Snow Patrol - Open Your Eyes
29: Lily Allen - Alfie
39: The Fratellis - Chelsea Dagger
Album Chart
1: Mika - Life In Cartoon Motion
2: Amy Winehouse - Back To Black
3: Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
4: Norah Jones - Not Too Late
5: Take That - Beautiful World
Next Week's Contenders
Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
Gwen Stefani ft. Akon - The Sweet Escape
The Fray - How To Save A Life
Sophie Ellis Bextor - Catch You
He has got to go.
1: Mika - Grace Kelly (1)
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby (2)
3: Snoop Dogg ft. Akon - Let Me Love You (9)
4: Just Jack - Stars In Their Eyes (3)
5: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (4)
Fuck.
Other Notables
7: The Fray - How To Save A Life
10: Take That - Patience
11: Take That - Shine
12: Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
13: The View - Same Jeans
17: The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control
21: Bloc Party - The Prayer
22: Amy Winehouse - Rehab
23: Klaxons - Golden Skans
26: Snow Patrol - Open Your Eyes
29: Lily Allen - Alfie
39: The Fratellis - Chelsea Dagger
Album Chart
1: Mika - Life In Cartoon Motion
2: Amy Winehouse - Back To Black
3: Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
4: Norah Jones - Not Too Late
5: Take That - Beautiful World
Next Week's Contenders
Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
Gwen Stefani ft. Akon - The Sweet Escape
The Fray - How To Save A Life
Sophie Ellis Bextor - Catch You
He has got to go.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Weekend Off
Can't be assed to work this weekend so I'm off until Monday.
You Don't Know Jack February 16th 2007
Category: That's So, Like, Last Chinese New Year
Score: $2,827
Should've done better there.
You Don't Know Jack February 16th 2007
Category: That's So, Like, Last Chinese New Year
Score: $2,827
Should've done better there.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Review - The Outer Marker
Album Info Box
Artist - Just Jack
Album - The Outer Marker
Jack Allsopp is technically in the same boat as Jamie Treyore. A white rapper who has a way with tunes. Jack's tunes are purely synthetic though unlike the bassy throb of Jamie. If you've gotten to know Jack through his big shiny pop song Stars In Their Eyes then this, his first album will be a bit of a shock to your system.
The Outer Marker is a lot more sparse and thin than Overtones, this helps Jack's voice to come through much better and its a good voice. He has a confidence and tone that shows a rapper far more experienced than him. Its that maturity that makes The Outer Marker such a pleasure to listen to, but the stumbling block is the music itself. Often its far too much in the background and doesn't hold the same relevance to the lyrics of each track as Jamie's album.
The lyrics work as does Jack's voice, however all too often the music just seems like an afterthought. No doubt he's rectified that with his recent work, but as far as this album goes its just not good enough.
In One Line
He's got the lyrics and the skill, but doesn't have the tunes.
Five (5)
Artist - Just Jack
Album - The Outer Marker
Jack Allsopp is technically in the same boat as Jamie Treyore. A white rapper who has a way with tunes. Jack's tunes are purely synthetic though unlike the bassy throb of Jamie. If you've gotten to know Jack through his big shiny pop song Stars In Their Eyes then this, his first album will be a bit of a shock to your system.
The Outer Marker is a lot more sparse and thin than Overtones, this helps Jack's voice to come through much better and its a good voice. He has a confidence and tone that shows a rapper far more experienced than him. Its that maturity that makes The Outer Marker such a pleasure to listen to, but the stumbling block is the music itself. Often its far too much in the background and doesn't hold the same relevance to the lyrics of each track as Jamie's album.
The lyrics work as does Jack's voice, however all too often the music just seems like an afterthought. No doubt he's rectified that with his recent work, but as far as this album goes its just not good enough.
In One Line
He's got the lyrics and the skill, but doesn't have the tunes.
Five (5)
Album Day
2 albums, neither from bands, neither from the deep, dark depths of indie credibility. But I don't care.
Amy Winehouse - Back To Black
Just Jack - The Outer Marker
That's Jack's first album, the one you won't have heard of or seen on the shelves of Asda. Probably get Larrikin Love tomorrow.
You Don't Know Jack February 15th 2007
Category: Jeeves, To The Sharper Image!
Score: $1,812
Amy Winehouse - Back To Black
Just Jack - The Outer Marker
That's Jack's first album, the one you won't have heard of or seen on the shelves of Asda. Probably get Larrikin Love tomorrow.
You Don't Know Jack February 15th 2007
Category: Jeeves, To The Sharper Image!
Score: $1,812
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
The Brit Awards 2007
w00tworld is the official blog of the 2007 Brit Awards.
Its not, but I bet they won't bug me about saying it.
Several awards, only 2 bands certain to be leaving with awards (Oasis' Outstanding Contribution, Muse for Best Live Act). Here are your winners. Your loser is presenting it.
The Brit Awards 2007 in association with Mastercard
Performance
Scissor Sisters - I Don't Feel Like Dancing
Ooh, Russell Brand getting little from anyone but the filmed crowd for his intro. Lily Allen especially looking unimpressed. Until her dad walks on stage, the first person to produce Lily apparantly.
Award - Best British Live Act (Chosen by Radio 2 listeners)
Nominations - Guillemots, George Michael, Robbie Williams, Muse, Kasabian
Winner
MUSE! (again)
Matt Bellamy in a stunning suit, all 3 of the Muse boys scrubbed up nicely. 2nd time they've won the Best Live Act award at the Brits, probably 22nd time they've picked it up from various awards ceremonies including the Kerrang Awards and the NME Awards. Wonder where they keep them?
Performance
Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
According to the post-award interview with Ferne Cotton its Matt's turn to take the award home. The voting is now open for the Best British Single award. Here are the nominations.
Will Young - All Time Love
Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
Take That - Patience
The Feeling - Fill My Little World
Razorlight - America
A poor selection I think, should go to The Feeling though.
This year's break bumpers come courtesy of Youtube's never-ending stream of bad lip-synching. Jarvis Cocker now enters to Running The World. Or Cunts Are Still Running The World to give it its full title.
Award - British Breakthrough Act (chosen by Radio 1 listeners)
Nominations - Corrine Bailey Rae, The Kooks, James Morrison, Lily Allen, The Fratellis
Winner
THE FRATELLIS!
Wow! I thought The Kooks or Lily were going to walk that one. This is going alright so far I reckon. First Brit for the scottish crew, James Morrison is hidden behind his hands to hide his disappointment. Mince is wearing a denim jacket in the Cribs style. He thanks his mum and dad. Russell's next joke is below the belt and goes out to dead silence.
Award - International Breakthrough Act (chosen by MTV2 viewers)
Nominations - Gnarls Barkley, The Raconteurs, Wolfmother, Ray Lamontagne, Orson
Winner
ORSON!
I'm stunned there, I thought that was Gnarls'. Jason Pebworth is extremely happy, the other band members seem slightly stunned. I don't think they expected it either. Pebworth grabs Russell's crotch before running off. Superb.
Performance
Amy Winehouse - Rehab
I never quite get over how much sodding hair she has. Watching this performance I can't get over how little dress she has, Edith Bowman said on Radio 1 during Scott Mills that she had more hair than clothing, I think that wasn't much of an exaggeration. Now here comes Joss Stone in a dress you should turn your brightness down for. Again Robbie Williams is congratulated for his drug addiction.
Award - Best British Male
Nominations - Lemar, Paolo Nutini, James Morrison, Thom Yorke, Jarvis Cocker
Winner
JAMES MORRISON!
First panel decided award of the night and its a little bit too obvious. Put to a public vote that would've gone to Paolo or Jarvis. Pretends to not have a speech. I like Its A Wonderful World as much as anyone else but he is a bit of a twat.
Ferne is with Orson, James Morrison and the family Fratelli. After the break, The Killers and Take That. 3 bints in an office send us into that break.
Award - Best International Male
Nominations - Justin Timberlake, Jack Johnson, Damien Rice, Beck Hansen, Bob Dylan
Winner
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE!
Who isn't sodding here. Anyone surprised?
Performance
The Killers - When You Were Young
Jo Whiley comes on, isn't she on the radio in 5 minutes?
Award - Best British Female
Nominations - Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae, Nerina Pallot, Lily Allen, Jamelia
Winner
AMY WINEHOUSE!!
Holy shi...I wasn't expecting that. As expected, she's not entirely sober.
Award - Best International Female
Nominations - Christina Aguilera, Nelly Fertado, Pink, Cat Power, Beyonce Knowles
Winner
NELLY FERTADO!
Good shot I think. Cat Power winning would've been stunning but I won't complain about that. Her 3rd nomination but 1st award having been beaten by Kylie and The Strokes in the past. Her speech is as excitable as Orson's. More Robbie, Russell's lead-in to the next act has Liam Gallagher in stitches.
Performance
Take That - Patience
Take That at the Brits. It just seems right to have that double T logo on the big screen. Ferne's alone this time. After the break Best British Band and the Chili Peppers.
Presenting the next award, subject of your and my affections, Anthony Head.
Award - Best British Band
Nominations - Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, Snow Patrol, Muse, Razorlight
Winner
ARCTIC MONKEYS!
The Arctics are off recording the new video for the first single off their new album Favourite Worst Nightmare. Now lock up your daughters, here come Simon Pegg and Nick Frost!
Award - Best International Album
Nominations - Bob Dylan, Gnarls Barkley, Justin Timberlake, Scissor Sisters, The Killers
Winner
THE KILLERS - SAM'S TOWN!!
w00tburgers with cheese there. First Brit for the 'Best British Band To Come Out Of America'. Just rewards for a superb album. Now for a track from a slightly less superb album, though much better hair.
Performance
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California
Voting for Best British Single is now closed.
Award - Best International Band
Nominations - Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Killers, Scissor Sisters, Gnarls Barkley, The Flaming Lips
Winner
THE KILLERS!
A very audible YES! from The Killers' table there, the first double winners of the night.
Performance
Corrine Bailey-Rae - Put Your Records On
Alan Carr comes on to The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control, how freaking moronic is that?
Award - Best British Single (chosen by ITV1 viewers and listeners of commercial radio)
Nominations - Will Young, Snow Patrol, Take That, The Feeling, Razorlight
Winner
TAKE THAT - PATIENCE!
Take That return to the Brits and immediately pick up right where they left off. The 5th award for them. Now for the big one.
Award - Mastercard Best British Album
Nominations - Snow Patrol, Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse, Arctic Monkeys, Muse
Winner
ARCTIC MONKEYS - WHATEVER PEOPLE SAY I AM, THAT'S WHAT I'M NOT!
Anyone surprised there? The Village People pick up the award on their behalf. Ferne's chatting to 4/5ths of Take That. The group will pass the award around every 2 weeks starting with Howard.
Now its time to award the Golden Lady.
Award - Outstanding Contribution To Music
Oasis
"Seeing as I don't get nominated for this shit anymore I suppose it'll have to do."
Performance - Oasis
Cigarettes And Alcohol
The Meaning Of Soul
Morning Glory
Don't Look Back In Anger
Rock 'N' Roll Star
Nice. So now that's done, here's the final winners table.
2 Awards
The Killers (International Band, International Album)
Arctic Monkeys (British Band, British Album)
1 Award
Take That (British Single)
Amy Winehouse (British Female)
James Morrison (British Male)
Orson (International Breakthrough)
The Fratellis (British Breakthrough)
Muse (Live Act)
Justin Timberlake (International Male)
Nelly Fertado (International Female)
Its not, but I bet they won't bug me about saying it.
Several awards, only 2 bands certain to be leaving with awards (Oasis' Outstanding Contribution, Muse for Best Live Act). Here are your winners. Your loser is presenting it.
The Brit Awards 2007 in association with Mastercard
Performance
Scissor Sisters - I Don't Feel Like Dancing
Ooh, Russell Brand getting little from anyone but the filmed crowd for his intro. Lily Allen especially looking unimpressed. Until her dad walks on stage, the first person to produce Lily apparantly.
Award - Best British Live Act (Chosen by Radio 2 listeners)
Nominations - Guillemots, George Michael, Robbie Williams, Muse, Kasabian
Winner
MUSE! (again)
Matt Bellamy in a stunning suit, all 3 of the Muse boys scrubbed up nicely. 2nd time they've won the Best Live Act award at the Brits, probably 22nd time they've picked it up from various awards ceremonies including the Kerrang Awards and the NME Awards. Wonder where they keep them?
Performance
Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
According to the post-award interview with Ferne Cotton its Matt's turn to take the award home. The voting is now open for the Best British Single award. Here are the nominations.
Will Young - All Time Love
Snow Patrol - Chasing Cars
Take That - Patience
The Feeling - Fill My Little World
Razorlight - America
A poor selection I think, should go to The Feeling though.
This year's break bumpers come courtesy of Youtube's never-ending stream of bad lip-synching. Jarvis Cocker now enters to Running The World. Or Cunts Are Still Running The World to give it its full title.
Award - British Breakthrough Act (chosen by Radio 1 listeners)
Nominations - Corrine Bailey Rae, The Kooks, James Morrison, Lily Allen, The Fratellis
Winner
THE FRATELLIS!
Wow! I thought The Kooks or Lily were going to walk that one. This is going alright so far I reckon. First Brit for the scottish crew, James Morrison is hidden behind his hands to hide his disappointment. Mince is wearing a denim jacket in the Cribs style. He thanks his mum and dad. Russell's next joke is below the belt and goes out to dead silence.
Award - International Breakthrough Act (chosen by MTV2 viewers)
Nominations - Gnarls Barkley, The Raconteurs, Wolfmother, Ray Lamontagne, Orson
Winner
ORSON!
I'm stunned there, I thought that was Gnarls'. Jason Pebworth is extremely happy, the other band members seem slightly stunned. I don't think they expected it either. Pebworth grabs Russell's crotch before running off. Superb.
Performance
Amy Winehouse - Rehab
I never quite get over how much sodding hair she has. Watching this performance I can't get over how little dress she has, Edith Bowman said on Radio 1 during Scott Mills that she had more hair than clothing, I think that wasn't much of an exaggeration. Now here comes Joss Stone in a dress you should turn your brightness down for. Again Robbie Williams is congratulated for his drug addiction.
Award - Best British Male
Nominations - Lemar, Paolo Nutini, James Morrison, Thom Yorke, Jarvis Cocker
Winner
JAMES MORRISON!
First panel decided award of the night and its a little bit too obvious. Put to a public vote that would've gone to Paolo or Jarvis. Pretends to not have a speech. I like Its A Wonderful World as much as anyone else but he is a bit of a twat.
Ferne is with Orson, James Morrison and the family Fratelli. After the break, The Killers and Take That. 3 bints in an office send us into that break.
Award - Best International Male
Nominations - Justin Timberlake, Jack Johnson, Damien Rice, Beck Hansen, Bob Dylan
Winner
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE!
Who isn't sodding here. Anyone surprised?
Performance
The Killers - When You Were Young
Jo Whiley comes on, isn't she on the radio in 5 minutes?
Award - Best British Female
Nominations - Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae, Nerina Pallot, Lily Allen, Jamelia
Winner
AMY WINEHOUSE!!
Holy shi...I wasn't expecting that. As expected, she's not entirely sober.
Award - Best International Female
Nominations - Christina Aguilera, Nelly Fertado, Pink, Cat Power, Beyonce Knowles
Winner
NELLY FERTADO!
Good shot I think. Cat Power winning would've been stunning but I won't complain about that. Her 3rd nomination but 1st award having been beaten by Kylie and The Strokes in the past. Her speech is as excitable as Orson's. More Robbie, Russell's lead-in to the next act has Liam Gallagher in stitches.
Performance
Take That - Patience
Take That at the Brits. It just seems right to have that double T logo on the big screen. Ferne's alone this time. After the break Best British Band and the Chili Peppers.
Presenting the next award, subject of your and my affections, Anthony Head.
Award - Best British Band
Nominations - Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, Snow Patrol, Muse, Razorlight
Winner
ARCTIC MONKEYS!
The Arctics are off recording the new video for the first single off their new album Favourite Worst Nightmare. Now lock up your daughters, here come Simon Pegg and Nick Frost!
Award - Best International Album
Nominations - Bob Dylan, Gnarls Barkley, Justin Timberlake, Scissor Sisters, The Killers
Winner
THE KILLERS - SAM'S TOWN!!
w00tburgers with cheese there. First Brit for the 'Best British Band To Come Out Of America'. Just rewards for a superb album. Now for a track from a slightly less superb album, though much better hair.
Performance
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California
Voting for Best British Single is now closed.
Award - Best International Band
Nominations - Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Killers, Scissor Sisters, Gnarls Barkley, The Flaming Lips
Winner
THE KILLERS!
A very audible YES! from The Killers' table there, the first double winners of the night.
Performance
Corrine Bailey-Rae - Put Your Records On
Alan Carr comes on to The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control, how freaking moronic is that?
Award - Best British Single (chosen by ITV1 viewers and listeners of commercial radio)
Nominations - Will Young, Snow Patrol, Take That, The Feeling, Razorlight
Winner
TAKE THAT - PATIENCE!
Take That return to the Brits and immediately pick up right where they left off. The 5th award for them. Now for the big one.
Award - Mastercard Best British Album
Nominations - Snow Patrol, Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse, Arctic Monkeys, Muse
Winner
ARCTIC MONKEYS - WHATEVER PEOPLE SAY I AM, THAT'S WHAT I'M NOT!
Anyone surprised there? The Village People pick up the award on their behalf. Ferne's chatting to 4/5ths of Take That. The group will pass the award around every 2 weeks starting with Howard.
Now its time to award the Golden Lady.
Award - Outstanding Contribution To Music
Oasis
"Seeing as I don't get nominated for this shit anymore I suppose it'll have to do."
Performance - Oasis
Cigarettes And Alcohol
The Meaning Of Soul
Morning Glory
Don't Look Back In Anger
Rock 'N' Roll Star
Nice. So now that's done, here's the final winners table.
2 Awards
The Killers (International Band, International Album)
Arctic Monkeys (British Band, British Album)
1 Award
Take That (British Single)
Amy Winehouse (British Female)
James Morrison (British Male)
Orson (International Breakthrough)
The Fratellis (British Breakthrough)
Muse (Live Act)
Justin Timberlake (International Male)
Nelly Fertado (International Female)
Bollocks
Its not going how I'd hope.
You Don't Know Jack February 14th 2007
Category: Did Gilligan And Skipper Really End Up Together?
Score: $3,843
SEVEN!! PERFECT!!
You Don't Know Jack February 14th 2007
Category: Did Gilligan And Skipper Really End Up Together?
Score: $3,843
SEVEN!! PERFECT!!
NJ's Canadian Adventure Update
NJ's Canadian Adventure is already big, fun and probably the biggest display of depravity the city of Toronto has ever seen. Now its something else.
LONGER!!
NJ's Canadian Adventure 2007
23rd to 30th May
NOT! Now its changed to...
NJ's Canadian Adventure 2007
23rd May to 4th June!!
Yes the adventure continues after I leave Toronto! Its now split into 2 legs.
Leg 1
First I fly from London to Toronto on Wednesday May 23rd. The week in Toronto obviously centers around the 3 day Anime North convention. Other ventures include the Toronto Zoo and the CN Tower. After the week on the 30th I fly home and return to normality to enjoy the remainder of the half-term break. Or that was what I thought when I woke up this morning...
Leg 2
On the 30th of May now I go from big city Toronto right on the border with the US to Halifax, Canada which is about 1,800km from Toronto. Why Halifax? Well that's the closest airport to a certain part of Canada which I've become quite familiar with.
Prince Edward Island
Yes, after spending a whole week sharing a hotel room with Nelly, Sarah and Jess they've decided they don't want to say goodbye for a year that quickly. So after a week on neutral ground I'm travelling to their hometown for 5 days staying with Sarah and Jess, in their apartment.
So, 5 extra days in a very different environment. I'll finally find out what everyday life is like for this lot. NJ's Canadian Adventure just got a lot more interesting.
LONGER!!
NJ's Canadian Adventure 2007
23rd to 30th May
NOT! Now its changed to...
NJ's Canadian Adventure 2007
23rd May to 4th June!!
Yes the adventure continues after I leave Toronto! Its now split into 2 legs.
Leg 1
First I fly from London to Toronto on Wednesday May 23rd. The week in Toronto obviously centers around the 3 day Anime North convention. Other ventures include the Toronto Zoo and the CN Tower. After the week on the 30th I fly home and return to normality to enjoy the remainder of the half-term break. Or that was what I thought when I woke up this morning...
Leg 2
On the 30th of May now I go from big city Toronto right on the border with the US to Halifax, Canada which is about 1,800km from Toronto. Why Halifax? Well that's the closest airport to a certain part of Canada which I've become quite familiar with.
Prince Edward Island
Yes, after spending a whole week sharing a hotel room with Nelly, Sarah and Jess they've decided they don't want to say goodbye for a year that quickly. So after a week on neutral ground I'm travelling to their hometown for 5 days staying with Sarah and Jess, in their apartment.
So, 5 extra days in a very different environment. I'll finally find out what everyday life is like for this lot. NJ's Canadian Adventure just got a lot more interesting.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Day Off Type Situation
Got stuff to do tomorrow and lazing about to do now so lets make this quick.
You Don't Know Jack February 13th 2007
Category: Sir, Put Your Pants Back On
Score: $1,827
Yeah, after that $3k score a while back its been slowly downhill.
You Don't Know Jack February 13th 2007
Category: Sir, Put Your Pants Back On
Score: $1,827
Yeah, after that $3k score a while back its been slowly downhill.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Review - This Is My Ship
CD Info Box
Artist: Dartz!
Album: This Is My Ship
Label: Xtra Mile Recordings
Some bands want you to stop and think, some bands was the music to wash over you, some bands want to piss off as many people as possible. Some bands don't want to piss off as many people as possible but somehow manage to do it anyway.
Dartz! want you to dance. Want you to sing. They also want to put the band name and album name on different spines of the CD case which will screw up my CD rack forever if their second album does the same, but that's a personal gripe.
Its true, as the NME said, that Dartz! have one song. That song is in my opinion the sound of Polysics on a mild sedative. Given that Now Is The Time! was w00tworld's Album Of The Year 2006 that's not a bad thing. The music is the tried and tested (and in Alkaline Trio, perfected) guitar/bass/drums combo that perfectly suits a 3-piece band and it takes a lot to get as much out of it as this lot have. The shrieking voice of William Anderson and perfect backing of Phillip Maughan provide an excellent launch pad to chuck out some of the often ridiculous lyrics that sound good but don't quite make sense. A perfect example being this;
"You have 3 sides but you're not a triangle, you have 3 sides and you are a square." (Prego Triangolos)
Umm, yeah. Despite these odd mind benders this is an album that could run an indie disco alone and any track will kick off the dancefloor at a good house party. I once said the sign of a good band was punctuation in its name, be it exclaimation marks (every party band ever), full stops (Bloc Party. is what its supposed to be) or several (Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly.). With the possible exception of Panic! At The Disco, I still think this theory holds up.
In A Line
When every other band is trying concepts and odd sounds, its nice to just hear a good tuneful thrash.
Eight (8)
Artist: Dartz!
Album: This Is My Ship
Label: Xtra Mile Recordings
Some bands want you to stop and think, some bands was the music to wash over you, some bands want to piss off as many people as possible. Some bands don't want to piss off as many people as possible but somehow manage to do it anyway.
Dartz! want you to dance. Want you to sing. They also want to put the band name and album name on different spines of the CD case which will screw up my CD rack forever if their second album does the same, but that's a personal gripe.
Its true, as the NME said, that Dartz! have one song. That song is in my opinion the sound of Polysics on a mild sedative. Given that Now Is The Time! was w00tworld's Album Of The Year 2006 that's not a bad thing. The music is the tried and tested (and in Alkaline Trio, perfected) guitar/bass/drums combo that perfectly suits a 3-piece band and it takes a lot to get as much out of it as this lot have. The shrieking voice of William Anderson and perfect backing of Phillip Maughan provide an excellent launch pad to chuck out some of the often ridiculous lyrics that sound good but don't quite make sense. A perfect example being this;
"You have 3 sides but you're not a triangle, you have 3 sides and you are a square." (Prego Triangolos)
Umm, yeah. Despite these odd mind benders this is an album that could run an indie disco alone and any track will kick off the dancefloor at a good house party. I once said the sign of a good band was punctuation in its name, be it exclaimation marks (every party band ever), full stops (Bloc Party. is what its supposed to be) or several (Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly.). With the possible exception of Panic! At The Disco, I still think this theory holds up.
In A Line
When every other band is trying concepts and odd sounds, its nice to just hear a good tuneful thrash.
Eight (8)
Concept Album
A deep and thought provoking album raging against the evils that plague modern life.
Dartz!'s album isn't like that. Find out what it is like later on.
You Don't Know Jack February 12th 2007
Category: The Things People Will Do For Cheese
Score: $1,689
Bad answers and slow as well.
Dartz!'s album isn't like that. Find out what it is like later on.
You Don't Know Jack February 12th 2007
Category: The Things People Will Do For Cheese
Score: $1,689
Bad answers and slow as well.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
A Letter
Dear UK Record Buying Public.
WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU?!
Yes much as it pains me, Mika holds off 2 of the best bands in the UK to take the singles and album chart double. Life In Cartoon Motion keeps East London's finest at bay while the pride of Yorkshire is kept at arms length by Grace Kelly. Here's the top of the chart.
1: Mika - Grace Kelly
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
3: Just Jack - Starz In Their Eyes
4: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (Its An Arms Race)
5: Mason feat. Princess Superstar - Exceeder
Other Notables
6: The Fray - How To Save A Live
8: The View - Same Jeans
11: Bloc Party - The Prayer
12: Klaxons - Golden Skans
17: Take That - Shine
27: The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control
30: My Chemical Romance - Famous Last Words
37: The Long Blondes - Giddy Stratospheres
Next Week
The Fray, Gwen Stefani and Sophie Ellis Bextor take aim and try to prevent a 5th week. My money's on The Fray.
"Why don't you like me?"
Hmm, let me count the ways Mr Mika. Allow me to present a choice quote to sign off.
"More irritating than a pair of itching powder-laced burlap sack trousers worn over a cheese-string thong. By an excema sufferer." NME - Review of Life In Cartoon Motion (5)
WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU?!
Yes much as it pains me, Mika holds off 2 of the best bands in the UK to take the singles and album chart double. Life In Cartoon Motion keeps East London's finest at bay while the pride of Yorkshire is kept at arms length by Grace Kelly. Here's the top of the chart.
1: Mika - Grace Kelly
2: Kaiser Chiefs - Ruby
3: Just Jack - Starz In Their Eyes
4: Fall Out Boy - This Ain't A Scene (Its An Arms Race)
5: Mason feat. Princess Superstar - Exceeder
Other Notables
6: The Fray - How To Save A Live
8: The View - Same Jeans
11: Bloc Party - The Prayer
12: Klaxons - Golden Skans
17: Take That - Shine
27: The Gossip - Standing In The Way Of Control
30: My Chemical Romance - Famous Last Words
37: The Long Blondes - Giddy Stratospheres
Next Week
The Fray, Gwen Stefani and Sophie Ellis Bextor take aim and try to prevent a 5th week. My money's on The Fray.
"Why don't you like me?"
Hmm, let me count the ways Mr Mika. Allow me to present a choice quote to sign off.
"More irritating than a pair of itching powder-laced burlap sack trousers worn over a cheese-string thong. By an excema sufferer." NME - Review of Life In Cartoon Motion (5)
ARGH!
The Official UK Album Chart
#2 - Bloc Party - A Weekend In The City
Number two. Runner up. We all know who got the space above, I don't want to say it.
#2 - Bloc Party - A Weekend In The City
Number two. Runner up. We all know who got the space above, I don't want to say it.
Paper Tray
The danger of listening to the radio is that no matter how selective you are with your show choices you will always get some guff. My show choices are limited to Radio 1, more specifically Zane Lowe (Mon-Thu 7-9pm), Colin Murray (Mon-Thu 10-Midnight) and occasionally the Radio 1 Chart Show With JK And Joel (Sunday 4-7pm).
With the chart I probably get a lot more guff than the other areas. It also takes a lot more fortitude to sit through it because I know there's no decent presenter on the other side of the song.
My Fanfic Folder is ready for new additions at last, a new printer cartridge means I can finally start printing off smut again.
With the chart I probably get a lot more guff than the other areas. It also takes a lot more fortitude to sit through it because I know there's no decent presenter on the other side of the song.
My Fanfic Folder is ready for new additions at last, a new printer cartridge means I can finally start printing off smut again.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Primeval
So Primeval finally started tonight. ITVs big new Saturday night drama that could pave the way for the demise of a Doctor Who that's gone from freshly revived, to dull, repetetive and over sentimental. So who's in it? What's it about? And why should you watch it?
Firstly, this series has no excuse for not succeeding. Its lead-in and lead-out shows are 2 of ITV's biggest. Dancing On Ice on the one side and its immediately followed by Ant and Dec's superquiz Pokerface. Now the characters.
1) Nick Cutter (Douglas Henshall)
Nick is a professor of evolution at Central Metropolitan University. His wife disappeared 7 years ago without any explaination. He's exactly what The Doctor should be, with the emotional baggage driving him but not dragging him down. Don't be surprised to see Henshall take on the TARDIS sometime in the future. His role in the Primeval crew is the captain.
2) Stephen Hart (James Murray)
Stephen is the tracker of the crew and Cutter's lab technician. He's the monster killer of the crew.
3) Abby Maitland (Hannah Spearitt)
Hannah Spearitt. Think about it, does that name mean anything to you? Hannah is following in Billie Piper's shoes as a popstar going into big time acting. The second of the S-Club 7 to reappear on our screens this year plays a zookeeper who specialises in lizards. Will probably end up in a romantic relationship with either Stephen or Connor.
4) Connor Temple (Andrew Lee-Potts)
A daft and clumsy student who has created a database of non-extinct animals. A supergeek who wants to be abducted by aliens.
5) Claudia Brown (Lucy Brown)
A Home Office employee assigned to investigate the issue. Has an asshole boss who may or may not be the ultimate villain.
Primeval is a fast and exciting show which should go for much more than 6 episodes. But this is ITV and only when they recommission this will I regain my faith in them.
Primeval is on next Saturday at 7:20pm.
Firstly, this series has no excuse for not succeeding. Its lead-in and lead-out shows are 2 of ITV's biggest. Dancing On Ice on the one side and its immediately followed by Ant and Dec's superquiz Pokerface. Now the characters.
1) Nick Cutter (Douglas Henshall)
Nick is a professor of evolution at Central Metropolitan University. His wife disappeared 7 years ago without any explaination. He's exactly what The Doctor should be, with the emotional baggage driving him but not dragging him down. Don't be surprised to see Henshall take on the TARDIS sometime in the future. His role in the Primeval crew is the captain.
2) Stephen Hart (James Murray)
Stephen is the tracker of the crew and Cutter's lab technician. He's the monster killer of the crew.
3) Abby Maitland (Hannah Spearitt)
Hannah Spearitt. Think about it, does that name mean anything to you? Hannah is following in Billie Piper's shoes as a popstar going into big time acting. The second of the S-Club 7 to reappear on our screens this year plays a zookeeper who specialises in lizards. Will probably end up in a romantic relationship with either Stephen or Connor.
4) Connor Temple (Andrew Lee-Potts)
A daft and clumsy student who has created a database of non-extinct animals. A supergeek who wants to be abducted by aliens.
5) Claudia Brown (Lucy Brown)
A Home Office employee assigned to investigate the issue. Has an asshole boss who may or may not be the ultimate villain.
Primeval is a fast and exciting show which should go for much more than 6 episodes. But this is ITV and only when they recommission this will I regain my faith in them.
Primeval is on next Saturday at 7:20pm.
Review - Less Than Zero
Book Info Box
Title: Less Than Zero
Author: Bret Easton Ellis
Publisher: Picador
First I have to explain what brought me to this book. Like a lot of the last 2 weeks it was that Bloc Party interview in NME, it was mentioned that the first song on the new album (called Song For Clay (Disappear Here)) is written about this book. After reading it I find it hard to believe that the whole album wasn't based on it.
Before watching the first Pokemon movie no film had ever made me cry before. Before hearing the first Billy Talent album no music had ever made me feel genuinely angry before. Before reading this, no book had ever made me stop and wonder if I really wanted to keep reading.
Less Than Zero is the story of Clay, a rich kid who's coming home for a month. Pretty quickly we find out that Clay is social, popular and rather attractive. He's also a cocaine addict. The book reads as he narrates the 4 weeks he spends back in LA after spending a year at college in New Hampshire, the style is odd and takes a little getting used to but after a while it becomes essential to know what Clay's thinking in his head about the people he's seeing and the things he's doing. There's no coherent structure to his routine, the setting constantly jumps from the streets of LA to sitting at home doing coke in his room to a strangers bedroom before and after sex. Clay though isn't really the star of the story, he's just the narrator through most of the book.
The real stars are Clay's 'friends' and the rest of the people who populate his world. These are brilliantly fleshed out and we fairly easily learn of their relationship with Clay. Blair for example is his ex/current girlfriend, Rip the drug dealer, Julian the fellow addict rapidly losing control of his life, Trent the moral-less model, Kay the party girl who only knows where her mother is by reading showbiz magazines. The main point of the story though is Clay trying to decide whether he should stay in LA with his friends or go back to college when the holiday is over.
Initially the issues are fairly simple and clear-cut. Excessive drug use, binge drinking, meaningless sex, eating disorders, family separation etc. As the story progresses though it becomes more serious and disturbing, death from overdose, mental health. What's more disturbing though is the casual way in which these are referred to by the characters as general topics of conversation. The real disturbance though is reserved for those who make it all the way through to the final stages. I won't say what lies in wait for those brave enough to go that far but many scenes brought me close to vomiting from the sheer horror of them. Yet they aren't told in detail, the reader is left to fill in the blanks when the author or even Clay decides that its just too much, this leads to some mental images that won't be removed easily.
Less Than Zero is a disturbing and horrific tale of rich kids in LA, yet at the same time its brilliantly written with a cast of characters that will provoke feeling and opinion from everyone who reads it. Its not for everyone but as a first novel this really shows off what Bret Easton Ellis can do.
In 1 Line
If you've got the stomach then it deserves your time, if not then you're missing out.
Score
Eight (8)
Title: Less Than Zero
Author: Bret Easton Ellis
Publisher: Picador
First I have to explain what brought me to this book. Like a lot of the last 2 weeks it was that Bloc Party interview in NME, it was mentioned that the first song on the new album (called Song For Clay (Disappear Here)) is written about this book. After reading it I find it hard to believe that the whole album wasn't based on it.
Before watching the first Pokemon movie no film had ever made me cry before. Before hearing the first Billy Talent album no music had ever made me feel genuinely angry before. Before reading this, no book had ever made me stop and wonder if I really wanted to keep reading.
Less Than Zero is the story of Clay, a rich kid who's coming home for a month. Pretty quickly we find out that Clay is social, popular and rather attractive. He's also a cocaine addict. The book reads as he narrates the 4 weeks he spends back in LA after spending a year at college in New Hampshire, the style is odd and takes a little getting used to but after a while it becomes essential to know what Clay's thinking in his head about the people he's seeing and the things he's doing. There's no coherent structure to his routine, the setting constantly jumps from the streets of LA to sitting at home doing coke in his room to a strangers bedroom before and after sex. Clay though isn't really the star of the story, he's just the narrator through most of the book.
The real stars are Clay's 'friends' and the rest of the people who populate his world. These are brilliantly fleshed out and we fairly easily learn of their relationship with Clay. Blair for example is his ex/current girlfriend, Rip the drug dealer, Julian the fellow addict rapidly losing control of his life, Trent the moral-less model, Kay the party girl who only knows where her mother is by reading showbiz magazines. The main point of the story though is Clay trying to decide whether he should stay in LA with his friends or go back to college when the holiday is over.
Initially the issues are fairly simple and clear-cut. Excessive drug use, binge drinking, meaningless sex, eating disorders, family separation etc. As the story progresses though it becomes more serious and disturbing, death from overdose, mental health. What's more disturbing though is the casual way in which these are referred to by the characters as general topics of conversation. The real disturbance though is reserved for those who make it all the way through to the final stages. I won't say what lies in wait for those brave enough to go that far but many scenes brought me close to vomiting from the sheer horror of them. Yet they aren't told in detail, the reader is left to fill in the blanks when the author or even Clay decides that its just too much, this leads to some mental images that won't be removed easily.
Less Than Zero is a disturbing and horrific tale of rich kids in LA, yet at the same time its brilliantly written with a cast of characters that will provoke feeling and opinion from everyone who reads it. Its not for everyone but as a first novel this really shows off what Bret Easton Ellis can do.
In 1 Line
If you've got the stomach then it deserves your time, if not then you're missing out.
Score
Eight (8)
My Stomach Hurts
Nothing worrying, just watching Princess Princess (at last) and its probably one of the funniest series' I've seen in ages. At least since Love Hina. I've only just started to like the theme tune though (3 episodes in).
In other news, bought the new Jeremy Clarkson book (Born To Be Riled) on Friday. Dartz album out on Monday along with The Fray and Tokyo Police Club. Also the best place to spend a sleepless night is definately in the Anime North chatroom.
In other news, bought the new Jeremy Clarkson book (Born To Be Riled) on Friday. Dartz album out on Monday along with The Fray and Tokyo Police Club. Also the best place to spend a sleepless night is definately in the Anime North chatroom.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Snow Day 2
10:45, the bus companies that serve the college directly said they wanted to take everyone home now before the roads got any more hazardous. So there was just under 2 hours of college today, I spent the rest of the day in bed.
You Don't Know Jack February 9th 2007
Category: Astronaughty
Score: $804
Yeah, that wasn't too good.
You Don't Know Jack February 9th 2007
Category: Astronaughty
Score: $804
Yeah, that wasn't too good.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
My Room
Allow me to describe what's in my room as there's nothing but snow outside. On my desk is my Kingdom Hearts watch in its tin sitting on top of my Cardcaptor Sakura deck holder which in turn is on top of a pair of CD/R spindles. Next to them is my Anakin Skywalker figure from christmas, my CD/R pens, a passport photo and a Robbie Williams ticket. On the other side is my 4 decks of Naruto playing cards and my sister's Avenged Sevenfold, AFI, HIM and Paramore CDs. My old phone is right at the front with my Nintendo Wi-Fi connector on top of it.
Behind me is my TV unit with my TV and Dreamcast on it, my alarm clock, several PS2 and Gamecube games and PC games. A few bank statements are on there too. My DVD rack is at the foot of my bed (just below my 2 Kingdom Hearts necklaces and my ocarina) with a new printer cartridge on top of it. My bookcase is next to that with lots and lots of manga still overwhelming the normal books in there. Below my wardrobe is my printer box with several months worth of NME issues on it as well as issues of Edge, Neo, GamesTM and my DS. My DS sits on top of another pile of books consisting of Starter For 10, a Torchwood book and my copy of Less Than Zero. My Guitar Hero guitar is in the box by my TV along with Cybot, my fan, my GBA games and my G-Con 2 as well as many more DVDs and CDs. My music CDs all take up the tower behind the CD player itself, currently blasting out the new (is it still new?) Polysics album. Kakashi plushie is on my bed, all the rest on the empty bunk above it along with my DC games.
Yeah, no college today and I'm bored.
You Don't Know Jack February 7th and 8th 2007
Category (7th): Don't Pooh-Pooh My Yorkiepoo
Score: $2,512
Category (8th): Stop Trying To Satisfy My Hunger Dude!
Score: $2,381
Poo and Superbowl ads. Hard to tell the difference sometimes.
Behind me is my TV unit with my TV and Dreamcast on it, my alarm clock, several PS2 and Gamecube games and PC games. A few bank statements are on there too. My DVD rack is at the foot of my bed (just below my 2 Kingdom Hearts necklaces and my ocarina) with a new printer cartridge on top of it. My bookcase is next to that with lots and lots of manga still overwhelming the normal books in there. Below my wardrobe is my printer box with several months worth of NME issues on it as well as issues of Edge, Neo, GamesTM and my DS. My DS sits on top of another pile of books consisting of Starter For 10, a Torchwood book and my copy of Less Than Zero. My Guitar Hero guitar is in the box by my TV along with Cybot, my fan, my GBA games and my G-Con 2 as well as many more DVDs and CDs. My music CDs all take up the tower behind the CD player itself, currently blasting out the new (is it still new?) Polysics album. Kakashi plushie is on my bed, all the rest on the empty bunk above it along with my DC games.
Yeah, no college today and I'm bored.
You Don't Know Jack February 7th and 8th 2007
Category (7th): Don't Pooh-Pooh My Yorkiepoo
Score: $2,512
Category (8th): Stop Trying To Satisfy My Hunger Dude!
Score: $2,381
Poo and Superbowl ads. Hard to tell the difference sometimes.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Takeover
Track 9 has taken over my mind. I said I was going to buy and get sick of this album within a week but I severely doubt I will ever get tired of 'I Still Remember'. Just knowing that I have the 3 big romantic songs on that album (Kreuzberg, I Still Remember, Sunday) lined up on my player gets that irresistable tune playing in my head. Only one review that I've read of the album has positioned it as anything other than the best track on there and that's an undeniable fact when you've gone through all the tracks.
It still brings me to tears though, I was listening to the album on my way into college this morning and miming the words as I usually do. When I reached one part though it felt like my throat closed up and I choked on the words slightly. It doesn't matter what line it is, I always get hit hard by it.
It may not just be my favourite track of the year when 2007's done but I could also just be the best track I've ever heard.
It still brings me to tears though, I was listening to the album on my way into college this morning and miming the words as I usually do. When I reached one part though it felt like my throat closed up and I choked on the words slightly. It doesn't matter what line it is, I always get hit hard by it.
It may not just be my favourite track of the year when 2007's done but I could also just be the best track I've ever heard.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Still Going
Still being played, still being loved.
You Don't Know Jack February 6th 2007
Category: My Tongue’th Thtuck on Thith Flagpole
Score: $3,689
7 OUT OF 7!!
You Don't Know Jack February 6th 2007
Category: My Tongue’th Thtuck on Thith Flagpole
Score: $3,689
7 OUT OF 7!!
Monday, February 05, 2007
Moving On
Liked Patience? Thought it was a bit melancholy and depressing though? Looking for something that shows the old Take That? The Take That that created Do What You Want and Pray? I got you covered, this is the second single off the Beautiful World Album.
Song Info Box
Artist: Take That
Song: Shine
From the album Beautiful World
Other Album Singles: Patience
Song Info Box
Artist: Take That
Song: Shine
From the album Beautiful World
Other Album Singles: Patience
Want This
Haha. Found this on the (finally functioning) official Bloc Party store. An Oyster card holder, the glory of this is fantastic. The Oyster card is like a prepaid ticket for the London Underground and I've seen quite a few custom card holders in my time in the capital.
Also there's the singles collectors box on RecordStore.co.uk which is designed to hold the 7" versions of all the singles. There are 4 pieces of artwork on the front, one is The Prayer, the second will be I Still Remember, I wonder what 3+4 will be?
My bet is on Hunting For Witches and Where Is Home?
Also there's the singles collectors box on RecordStore.co.uk which is designed to hold the 7" versions of all the singles. There are 4 pieces of artwork on the front, one is The Prayer, the second will be I Still Remember, I wonder what 3+4 will be?
My bet is on Hunting For Witches and Where Is Home?
Review - A Weekend In The City
CD Info Box
Artist: Bloc Party
Album: A Weekend In The City
Label: Wichita
Released: 2007
2005's Silent Alarm was one of the first albums I bought. For that reason alone I was excited about the second album from this group of 4 'University Challenge contestants'. They haven't disappointed. Here's how the albums 11 tracks break down.
Track 1: Song For Clay (Disappear Here)
Referring to the Bret Easton Ellis novel 'Less Than Zero' (which I actually have on my desk right now). In that book the title character (Clay) discovers the LA underworld for rich kids, a world of drugs, sex and violence. The same theme sets out the stall for this album, the song begins with Kele crooning "I am trying/to be heroic/in an age of modernity" and it flows from there from a Snow Patrol-esque guitar part into the sort of riff you'd expect to see on a Billy Talent album. Its quick, raging and an exhilarating start.
Track 2: Hunting For Witches
No other singer could pull off a song like this without sounding hypocritical. Its a song about the racism ingrained in British society that came surging out (aided by the namechecked Daily Mail) after the 7th July bombings. After Song For Clay this is the big smash into the aims of the album, Kele's voice is fierce and confident and he tears into the song.
Track 3: Waiting for the 7.18
Work. This one is about getting away from it and forgetting everyday life. Again it starts as Snow Patrol before fully blossoming into unmistakable Bloc Party, its a transition that can grate sometimes but for a transitional song (moving from everyday life into the weekend) its the only way to make it really.
Track 4: The Prayer
So we've been through the week and the horrors within and now we've entered the club and start drinking. The lyrics show someone who wants to be looked at, admired, idolised and made to feel important. Again its back to getting away from work and a life you might not be happy with. Matt Tong really comes into prominance here with his drumming being the base that the song was built on, really its unthinkable to have this song without that drum track. As the first single too you're already likely to know the words to this one, cue the first singalong track of the first listen. Rest assured though it isn't the last.
Track 5: Uniform
Raging and ranting about the evils of drink and racism is all well and good, but in the end they're nice easy targets. Now its on to young people and teenagers. "We can't be hurt" is the call from the end of the chorus, "TV taught me how to sulk and love nothing" is another from the second verse. This is a full frontal attack on people who might be BP fans, "We tell ourselves we're different" is the key line for listeners to think about as they absorb another guitar tirade that sounds like it belongs more on a Trivium album.
Track 6: On
Cocaine. Drug of the middle classes, taken at dinner parties and provider of a haven again for people who hate their jobs. Its not a rant though, its drawing attention to and highlighting the key things that make it popular in the first place. Its now that you notice that this isn't a preaching album, and by avoiding the obvious route of damning and condemning drug use and instead reminding us of why its done in the first place it adds more weight and credibility to the song.
Track 7: Where Is Home?
And we're back to racism, or generic discrimination. One line tells us everything about this song. "In every headline we are reminded that that this is not home for us". A pure and glorious anthem for everyone listening who doesn't quite feel safe where they are. The big distinguishing point though is that there are barely any guitars in this for at least 2 minutes, the first half of the song more or less just Kele singing over Matt's drumming. That's not something I've ever heard, never before have I heard someone singing just to a drum track.
Track 8: Kreuzberg
If you know what the next 2 songs are about then they will hit you hard. If you have experience of the theme then you will most likely choke up while singing or shed a tear while listening. The line that sums this one up forms the chorus alone. "After sex/the bitter taste/been fooled again/the search continues"
Track 9: I Still Remember
Single #2 and its a beautiful ballad about being in love with someone but being too scared to make a move. The kicker is that the 2 subjects of the song aren't necessarily from opposing genders. That's what makes it special, that's what makes it different.
Track 10: Sunday
Waking up the morning after the night before, someone next to you but you don't know who it is. The special thing about this song is the roles of the 4 band members, Kele on guitar and vocals, Russell Lissack on guitar, Matt Tong on drums, Gordon Moakes on drums. Its dual drumkits for this one and again its an example of the group pushing the template to find new sounds without changing instuments or sounding pretentious.
Track 11: SRXT
The anti-depressant drug Seroxat has been linked to suicides in teenagers. The company that makes it denies that, despite evidence that says they knew about it. This is a suicide note at the end of the weekend, going to a peaceful area of the countryside and ending it. Its not funny, its not clever and its not a good thing. The song though is beautiful and again its not preaching, that one point sums up the album and once its all done you have to admit that this is the only track that could possibly end it.
Final Words
A Weekend In The City is beautiful, heart wrenching, peaceful and unsettled at the same time. I cannot remember another album that has ever captured my imagination in the same way, its a massive leap from Silent Alarm and puts Bloc Party in the league of their own that they really deserve. Right now there is no band in the UK or even the world that has the same sound or ability, however the only way to experience it properly is to know what the songs are about, that's the only thing that dampens it. Without that knowledge the songs and messages could fall on deaf ears but even then there is enough poetry and musical genius here to overcome that.
Final Line
This is the sound of modern Britain, and this album is a wake up call that so many people need.
Nine And A Half (9.5)
Artist: Bloc Party
Album: A Weekend In The City
Label: Wichita
Released: 2007
2005's Silent Alarm was one of the first albums I bought. For that reason alone I was excited about the second album from this group of 4 'University Challenge contestants'. They haven't disappointed. Here's how the albums 11 tracks break down.
Track 1: Song For Clay (Disappear Here)
Referring to the Bret Easton Ellis novel 'Less Than Zero' (which I actually have on my desk right now). In that book the title character (Clay) discovers the LA underworld for rich kids, a world of drugs, sex and violence. The same theme sets out the stall for this album, the song begins with Kele crooning "I am trying/to be heroic/in an age of modernity" and it flows from there from a Snow Patrol-esque guitar part into the sort of riff you'd expect to see on a Billy Talent album. Its quick, raging and an exhilarating start.
Track 2: Hunting For Witches
No other singer could pull off a song like this without sounding hypocritical. Its a song about the racism ingrained in British society that came surging out (aided by the namechecked Daily Mail) after the 7th July bombings. After Song For Clay this is the big smash into the aims of the album, Kele's voice is fierce and confident and he tears into the song.
Track 3: Waiting for the 7.18
Work. This one is about getting away from it and forgetting everyday life. Again it starts as Snow Patrol before fully blossoming into unmistakable Bloc Party, its a transition that can grate sometimes but for a transitional song (moving from everyday life into the weekend) its the only way to make it really.
Track 4: The Prayer
So we've been through the week and the horrors within and now we've entered the club and start drinking. The lyrics show someone who wants to be looked at, admired, idolised and made to feel important. Again its back to getting away from work and a life you might not be happy with. Matt Tong really comes into prominance here with his drumming being the base that the song was built on, really its unthinkable to have this song without that drum track. As the first single too you're already likely to know the words to this one, cue the first singalong track of the first listen. Rest assured though it isn't the last.
Track 5: Uniform
Raging and ranting about the evils of drink and racism is all well and good, but in the end they're nice easy targets. Now its on to young people and teenagers. "We can't be hurt" is the call from the end of the chorus, "TV taught me how to sulk and love nothing" is another from the second verse. This is a full frontal attack on people who might be BP fans, "We tell ourselves we're different" is the key line for listeners to think about as they absorb another guitar tirade that sounds like it belongs more on a Trivium album.
Track 6: On
Cocaine. Drug of the middle classes, taken at dinner parties and provider of a haven again for people who hate their jobs. Its not a rant though, its drawing attention to and highlighting the key things that make it popular in the first place. Its now that you notice that this isn't a preaching album, and by avoiding the obvious route of damning and condemning drug use and instead reminding us of why its done in the first place it adds more weight and credibility to the song.
Track 7: Where Is Home?
And we're back to racism, or generic discrimination. One line tells us everything about this song. "In every headline we are reminded that that this is not home for us". A pure and glorious anthem for everyone listening who doesn't quite feel safe where they are. The big distinguishing point though is that there are barely any guitars in this for at least 2 minutes, the first half of the song more or less just Kele singing over Matt's drumming. That's not something I've ever heard, never before have I heard someone singing just to a drum track.
Track 8: Kreuzberg
If you know what the next 2 songs are about then they will hit you hard. If you have experience of the theme then you will most likely choke up while singing or shed a tear while listening. The line that sums this one up forms the chorus alone. "After sex/the bitter taste/been fooled again/the search continues"
Track 9: I Still Remember
Single #2 and its a beautiful ballad about being in love with someone but being too scared to make a move. The kicker is that the 2 subjects of the song aren't necessarily from opposing genders. That's what makes it special, that's what makes it different.
Track 10: Sunday
Waking up the morning after the night before, someone next to you but you don't know who it is. The special thing about this song is the roles of the 4 band members, Kele on guitar and vocals, Russell Lissack on guitar, Matt Tong on drums, Gordon Moakes on drums. Its dual drumkits for this one and again its an example of the group pushing the template to find new sounds without changing instuments or sounding pretentious.
Track 11: SRXT
The anti-depressant drug Seroxat has been linked to suicides in teenagers. The company that makes it denies that, despite evidence that says they knew about it. This is a suicide note at the end of the weekend, going to a peaceful area of the countryside and ending it. Its not funny, its not clever and its not a good thing. The song though is beautiful and again its not preaching, that one point sums up the album and once its all done you have to admit that this is the only track that could possibly end it.
Final Words
A Weekend In The City is beautiful, heart wrenching, peaceful and unsettled at the same time. I cannot remember another album that has ever captured my imagination in the same way, its a massive leap from Silent Alarm and puts Bloc Party in the league of their own that they really deserve. Right now there is no band in the UK or even the world that has the same sound or ability, however the only way to experience it properly is to know what the songs are about, that's the only thing that dampens it. Without that knowledge the songs and messages could fall on deaf ears but even then there is enough poetry and musical genius here to overcome that.
Final Line
This is the sound of modern Britain, and this album is a wake up call that so many people need.
Nine And A Half (9.5)
Got It
Wasted no freaking time there.
You Don't Know Jack February 5th 2007
Category: Red Heat In A Blue State
Score: $2,897
You Don't Know Jack February 5th 2007
Category: Red Heat In A Blue State
Score: $2,897
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Review - Panic Prevention
CD Info Box
Artist: Jamie T
Album: Panic Prevention
Released: 2007
Label: Pacemaker
MySpace: www.myspace.com/jamietwimbledon
Eminem predicted as early as The Marshal Mathers LP that a flood of white rappers would emerge. It hasn't exactly been a flood but they've trickled out and generally, they've destroyed the bloated self-indulgent world of the 50 Cent's and Diddy's of this world.
One of these is Wimbledon's Jamie Treays, where most modern rappers boast about only needing a microphone he chooses to differ and announces that on the first track 'Brand New Bass Guitar'. Armed with only an acoustic bass guitar, clapped out Casio keyboard and enough wit and tunes to create one hell of a debut album.
The formula for each song is pretty much the same, rap verse, sung chorus, repeat to the beat of whatever tune is emerging from the bass/synth combination. If you listen for the rap, you'll be happy. Listen for the tune and you'll find plenty of bouncy, jolly tunes tucked away (So Lonely Was The Ballad and first single Sheila perfect examples). Listen for both though and you get an odd clash of cultures that shows a cast of characters on all sides of the 'modern britain' debate. These songs aren't about disillusionment with the Work Work Work Pub Club Sleep way of life, but neither are they living for those times. They're about consequences and not forgetting the good times.
The additional thing to the album is the inclusion of the 'skits' which characterise all hip-hop albums. Of course these are all pulled mostly with humour, from Jamie ranting at kids pulling "kung-fu wheelies" to 2 girls talking about their favourite drinks (cocoa).
The sarcasm and good natured fun that seeps through the whole CD makes this worth trying even if you have become wary of all rap artists. Jamie's skill with a rhyme and a tune means the worst thing you can do is ignore him. A Mercury Prize nomination is almost certain I think, and its well deserved.
Final Word
A victory for rap, music, style and substance.
Nine (9)
Artist: Jamie T
Album: Panic Prevention
Released: 2007
Label: Pacemaker
MySpace: www.myspace.com/jamietwimbledon
Eminem predicted as early as The Marshal Mathers LP that a flood of white rappers would emerge. It hasn't exactly been a flood but they've trickled out and generally, they've destroyed the bloated self-indulgent world of the 50 Cent's and Diddy's of this world.
One of these is Wimbledon's Jamie Treays, where most modern rappers boast about only needing a microphone he chooses to differ and announces that on the first track 'Brand New Bass Guitar'. Armed with only an acoustic bass guitar, clapped out Casio keyboard and enough wit and tunes to create one hell of a debut album.
The formula for each song is pretty much the same, rap verse, sung chorus, repeat to the beat of whatever tune is emerging from the bass/synth combination. If you listen for the rap, you'll be happy. Listen for the tune and you'll find plenty of bouncy, jolly tunes tucked away (So Lonely Was The Ballad and first single Sheila perfect examples). Listen for both though and you get an odd clash of cultures that shows a cast of characters on all sides of the 'modern britain' debate. These songs aren't about disillusionment with the Work Work Work Pub Club Sleep way of life, but neither are they living for those times. They're about consequences and not forgetting the good times.
The additional thing to the album is the inclusion of the 'skits' which characterise all hip-hop albums. Of course these are all pulled mostly with humour, from Jamie ranting at kids pulling "kung-fu wheelies" to 2 girls talking about their favourite drinks (cocoa).
The sarcasm and good natured fun that seeps through the whole CD makes this worth trying even if you have become wary of all rap artists. Jamie's skill with a rhyme and a tune means the worst thing you can do is ignore him. A Mercury Prize nomination is almost certain I think, and its well deserved.
Final Word
A victory for rap, music, style and substance.
Nine (9)
From The Forums
We have a group of 10 people coming to con this year and each of us will be dressed as a character from Bleach. So far we have a: Ichigo, Kon (in Ichigo's body), Urahara, Yoruichi, SoiFon, Rangiku, Hisagi, Komamura, Kyouraku, and Ukitake/Toushiro (I'm not sure which one until I get the wigs)
Posted by PlatinumMagic (29th January 2007)
Yeah. Guess who's the Hisagi in that group. I am actually excited and terrified in equal measures. On the one hand I'm thrilled at the chance to actually cosplay at last. On the other hand I'm scared about someone actually asking me a Bleach question, I'm counting on the rest of the crew to give me an emergency crash course to make sure I don't embarrass myself. Though she says 10 people, having heard the descriptions of other people coming I'm personally amazed at that number. I know for a fact there are more than 10 people coming, unless something's happened since I last spoke to either of them.
Hahaha. I just found something fun. When you want to find out what someone looks like, you go visit them. When you want to find out what someone's like, you track down their Livejournal.
Posted by PlatinumMagic (29th January 2007)
Yeah. Guess who's the Hisagi in that group. I am actually excited and terrified in equal measures. On the one hand I'm thrilled at the chance to actually cosplay at last. On the other hand I'm scared about someone actually asking me a Bleach question, I'm counting on the rest of the crew to give me an emergency crash course to make sure I don't embarrass myself. Though she says 10 people, having heard the descriptions of other people coming I'm personally amazed at that number. I know for a fact there are more than 10 people coming, unless something's happened since I last spoke to either of them.
Hahaha. I just found something fun. When you want to find out what someone looks like, you go visit them. When you want to find out what someone's like, you track down their Livejournal.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Erm...
YEEESSS!! PERFECT!!
It was a little strange maybe, but after 10 levels I finally hit the big perfect score and the coveted gold medal!
What game was I playing? Guitar Hero? DDR? Advance Wars?
Nope.
Cooking Mama.
It was a little strange maybe, but after 10 levels I finally hit the big perfect score and the coveted gold medal!
What game was I playing? Guitar Hero? DDR? Advance Wars?
Nope.
Cooking Mama.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Thay've Got It, I Haven't
Big red £8.99 sticker. THAT cover artwork that has invaded my consious since I first saw it. It has officially arrived in my local record store and the temptation to try and blag a copy a few days early was immense. But I didn't. I'm a Bloc Party fan therefore I wait patiently.
You Don't Know Jack February 2nd 2007
Category: Mmmm....Charcoled Human
Score: $2,972
You Don't Know Jack February 2nd 2007
Category: Mmmm....Charcoled Human
Score: $2,972
And On To Other Matters
Mainly, do I bother getting a Bloc Party shirt before the next crop start coming out? Even if it does have Silent Alarm's artwork on it.
I'll stop now, I do want one though and the NME Merch site is being a bitch so I'm hoping to find one in town today. Also on the shopping list for this payday is Jamie T's album, some other stuff and a new shirt of some description. I've already said which way I want that to go, but its been a while since I bought a new shirt for myself (last one being the DDR UK one I'm wearing now).
Issues to be resolved certainly, though the Canada fund has poked its head over the £500 mark.
I'll stop now, I do want one though and the NME Merch site is being a bitch so I'm hoping to find one in town today. Also on the shopping list for this payday is Jamie T's album, some other stuff and a new shirt of some description. I've already said which way I want that to go, but its been a while since I bought a new shirt for myself (last one being the DDR UK one I'm wearing now).
Issues to be resolved certainly, though the Canada fund has poked its head over the £500 mark.
Something I've Noticed
Watching the Two More Years video (yes Bloc Party again) and I noticed how Russell looks uncannily like the guitarist from The Gossip.
Just a thought.
Just a thought.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
NJ's State Of The Nation
"I only have sex on days beginning with T. Tuesday, Thursday, Today, Tomorrow"
T-shirt seen at Tesco bus station in Hereford
Its the sort of sentiment that scares me in all honesty. The culture of getting sex and not caring about who it was with or where it happens. I noticed it first hand the day after my birthday, DJs in pubs calling for everyone to get smashed because 'its the weekend'. Yeah? So? That means I have to work tomorrow. So do you, so does everyone in this group of people surrounding me. So why are you prancing around trying to 'pull' that girl who you're probably never going to see again. This is the question that needs to be asked to everyone who goes to nightclubs and drinks to get drunk. Why do you do it? Why voluntarily endure a day of pain in the form of the dreaded hangover just for a few hours of elation?
"After sex, the bitter taste, been fooled again, the search continues"
Bloc Party - Kreuzberg
People have asked me before, quite rightly and justifiably a question which I've never really been able to give an answer to when put on the spot like that. They ask 'why are you gay?'. The question doesn't offend me if its spoken with genuine curiosity or intreague with a desire to know more about what motivates people to deviate from what some know as 'the natural path'. Its a hard question to answer but it stems from the decision I made when I was 15 that I wasn't going to be one of those people who sleep with a different person every weekend and then brag about it at work the next day. Then comes the 'uke' decision, anal sex hurts. It hurts a lot, I know that and entered into this knowing this. It baffles people as to how I could choose a sex life which revolved around that kind of pain.
That view always comes from guys. Think about it, there are straight guys who pay to be whipped, tortured, humiliated, beaten up etc. Think about girls, its common knowledge that breaking the hymen (the barrier in the vaginal canal that serves as proof of virginity) is painful. So why do they do it? For girls though that's a one time thing, why endure it far worse every time? It shows devotion that's why. After that first time girls can hand it to whoever they want knowing that it won't hurt, every single time for me will be like the first time. Enduring that pain to give my partner as much pleasure as possible, that's what's appealing about being uke. I want the person I love at the time to enjoy my body in every way possible and if that means enduring a bit of pain myself then I'm willing to do that. Think about it for a little while, you know it makes sense.
OK, that went a bit off from where I intended. However it makes a point I've wanted to make for ages, even if it is just acknowledging it to myself. Think carefully everyone, can you honestly say that there has never been a time when you just wanted to be close to a member of your own gender? Whether its just a hug to show your friendships or thoughts in your mind of something more, its bound to come if it hasn't already. Dismiss it as hormones, morbid curiosity or whatever, because my view of sexuality remains as strong as ever.
We are all born bisexual. We only differ in which side we turn our backs on.
T-shirt seen at Tesco bus station in Hereford
Its the sort of sentiment that scares me in all honesty. The culture of getting sex and not caring about who it was with or where it happens. I noticed it first hand the day after my birthday, DJs in pubs calling for everyone to get smashed because 'its the weekend'. Yeah? So? That means I have to work tomorrow. So do you, so does everyone in this group of people surrounding me. So why are you prancing around trying to 'pull' that girl who you're probably never going to see again. This is the question that needs to be asked to everyone who goes to nightclubs and drinks to get drunk. Why do you do it? Why voluntarily endure a day of pain in the form of the dreaded hangover just for a few hours of elation?
"After sex, the bitter taste, been fooled again, the search continues"
Bloc Party - Kreuzberg
People have asked me before, quite rightly and justifiably a question which I've never really been able to give an answer to when put on the spot like that. They ask 'why are you gay?'. The question doesn't offend me if its spoken with genuine curiosity or intreague with a desire to know more about what motivates people to deviate from what some know as 'the natural path'. Its a hard question to answer but it stems from the decision I made when I was 15 that I wasn't going to be one of those people who sleep with a different person every weekend and then brag about it at work the next day. Then comes the 'uke' decision, anal sex hurts. It hurts a lot, I know that and entered into this knowing this. It baffles people as to how I could choose a sex life which revolved around that kind of pain.
That view always comes from guys. Think about it, there are straight guys who pay to be whipped, tortured, humiliated, beaten up etc. Think about girls, its common knowledge that breaking the hymen (the barrier in the vaginal canal that serves as proof of virginity) is painful. So why do they do it? For girls though that's a one time thing, why endure it far worse every time? It shows devotion that's why. After that first time girls can hand it to whoever they want knowing that it won't hurt, every single time for me will be like the first time. Enduring that pain to give my partner as much pleasure as possible, that's what's appealing about being uke. I want the person I love at the time to enjoy my body in every way possible and if that means enduring a bit of pain myself then I'm willing to do that. Think about it for a little while, you know it makes sense.
OK, that went a bit off from where I intended. However it makes a point I've wanted to make for ages, even if it is just acknowledging it to myself. Think carefully everyone, can you honestly say that there has never been a time when you just wanted to be close to a member of your own gender? Whether its just a hug to show your friendships or thoughts in your mind of something more, its bound to come if it hasn't already. Dismiss it as hormones, morbid curiosity or whatever, because my view of sexuality remains as strong as ever.
We are all born bisexual. We only differ in which side we turn our backs on.
Incoming
Advance warning, there is an industrial strength rant coming up later.
You Don't Know Jack February 1st 2007
Category: Dude's Got A Cannon For An Arm. No, Seriously.
Score: $2,410
TOUCHDOWN!!
Wow, a post without mentioning.....well you know.
You Don't Know Jack February 1st 2007
Category: Dude's Got A Cannon For An Arm. No, Seriously.
Score: $2,410
TOUCHDOWN!!
Wow, a post without mentioning.....well you know.
Substitution
I developed a fantasy a few weeks ago (around the time I got The Chronicles Of A Bohemian Teenager). It was one of those love at first sight scenarios that I know would never happen with anyone who had their head even vaguely screwed on. Get Cape (Sam Duckworth) was the subject and it involved me, him and a chance meeting in a pub after a gig. I'd love it if it happened, but I know he has the brains to know where the line is. Anyway, this fantasy hung around for a little while then gradually dropped away as most fantasies do (or in my case, should). However this fantasy resurfaced again on the bus this morning, I was nearly through to the moment of contact (use your imagination) before I noticed it was familiar and broke out of it. It wasn't Mr Cape though as the subject, since the events of Monday (or Tuesday, I don't remember) I've been thinking very differently. Somehow I've become more perverted, having an mp3 player loaded with yaoi doesn't really help in that respect (wallpaper is now into yaoi territory, though not graphic yet).
It does seem a little weird thinking in this way, especially as its still wholly unknown as far as I'm concerned. Listening to Silent Alarm this morning though with fresh ears (I haven't played it end to end in ages) I find it hard to come up with how it couldn't be true. I Still Remember on the new album certainly owes quite a bit to Plans on the first.
Silent Alarm really does hold a special place in my heart, one of the first albums I bought way back when my CD collection was in single figures (its now around the 80 mark). I remember the first time I heard Bloc Party, which I believe is something you should always remember for your favourite bands. The first issue of NME I bought was the 2004 Cool List issue, big holographic cover of the 2 number 1's. Pete Doherty and Carl Barat, the year of The Libertines split. I don't remember where he was (mid 40s I think), but Kele Okereke made his Cool List debut that year. The next week came the Cool List CD with bands that I was hearing for the first time, Kaiser Chiefs (I Predict A Riot), The Rakes (Strasborg) and Bloc Party (Helicopter). Annoyingly Wikipedia comes up blank on that CD's tracklisting and its gone missing since I first got it.
Anyway, I didn't quite show the same almost religeous devotion to music then as I do now. So its a mark of the pride I had in actually having a CD this close to release (it was a little while after my 16th birthday, barely a month after Silent Alarm's release) that I put it in my player at the time (my PC not yet my primary means of musical salvation) and lay down on the floor next to the speakers to just absorb it. Its listening to it now that makes me realise why I didn't quite get it back then, in my current state and situation the songs seem so much more relevant and I think the same logic applies to what I've heard of A Weekend In The City.
Eventually I'll run out of Bloc Party related stuff to talk about.
It does seem a little weird thinking in this way, especially as its still wholly unknown as far as I'm concerned. Listening to Silent Alarm this morning though with fresh ears (I haven't played it end to end in ages) I find it hard to come up with how it couldn't be true. I Still Remember on the new album certainly owes quite a bit to Plans on the first.
Silent Alarm really does hold a special place in my heart, one of the first albums I bought way back when my CD collection was in single figures (its now around the 80 mark). I remember the first time I heard Bloc Party, which I believe is something you should always remember for your favourite bands. The first issue of NME I bought was the 2004 Cool List issue, big holographic cover of the 2 number 1's. Pete Doherty and Carl Barat, the year of The Libertines split. I don't remember where he was (mid 40s I think), but Kele Okereke made his Cool List debut that year. The next week came the Cool List CD with bands that I was hearing for the first time, Kaiser Chiefs (I Predict A Riot), The Rakes (Strasborg) and Bloc Party (Helicopter). Annoyingly Wikipedia comes up blank on that CD's tracklisting and its gone missing since I first got it.
Anyway, I didn't quite show the same almost religeous devotion to music then as I do now. So its a mark of the pride I had in actually having a CD this close to release (it was a little while after my 16th birthday, barely a month after Silent Alarm's release) that I put it in my player at the time (my PC not yet my primary means of musical salvation) and lay down on the floor next to the speakers to just absorb it. Its listening to it now that makes me realise why I didn't quite get it back then, in my current state and situation the songs seem so much more relevant and I think the same logic applies to what I've heard of A Weekend In The City.
Eventually I'll run out of Bloc Party related stuff to talk about.
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