Cynics Anonymous

9 Sept - Badly Drawn Boy @ King Tuts, Glasgow.

2006-09-13T21:11:00.000Z

Someone somewhere once said that a picture paints a thousand words, so here are some pictures of the amazing Badly Drawn Boy gig at King Tuts, splattered with some words, it wouldn't be a blog otherwise I suppose.

A new album is on its way and this was Damons way of previewing the new songs to the fans. The new songs sound great and I for one can't wait until it's October release.

The older songs on the set were mostly from his debut classic, The Hour of Bewilderbeast, which was a rare treat and he even played "I Love You All" from the rather expensive EP2 and I think that was due to the great reaction he was receiving from the Glasgow crowd.

I spoke to Damon briefly before and it was clear that he was nervous, but by the end he was really enjoying. There is an old cliche that Glasgow has the best gig crowd but I have a suspiscion that they are. Our love of music seems to know no bounds and most big tours stop by.

It was also a good opportunity to meet some guys from the Badly Drawn Boy forum, the legendary Stockport Steve was in Glasgow and I finally met him. A cool guy and the story about how he met Damon is a classic and they are now best of friends.

A top night and not too bad a hangover.

Al

7 August - Belle & Sebastian @ Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh.

2006-08-30T08:14:00.000Z

I hate travelling to Edinburgh for a gig. The M8 is dull, parking in Edinburgh is a nightmare, the venues are rubbish and I just don't find it a welcoming city, but occassionally needs must and there will occassionally be a gig that I just can't miss and tonight falls right into that category for me.

Tonight was a T in the Fringe gig in Princes Street Gardens, which is the park between Princess Street and the castle. A picturesque venue, especially when darkness fell illuminating the castle above the stage, what an amzing backdrop.

Support came from the marvellous Camera Obscura. They played a good mix of old and new songs and it's god to see they continue to do well. They are an underrated band in my opinion and deserve all the plaudits. Tracey Anne's voice is beautiful and I could have listened to them all night. If you haven't already check them out.

This was my 15th Belle & Sebastian gig and they never get dull. They have such a large bag cateloge they are able to play different gigs and they always seem to pull a surprise or 2 out of the bag and this was no different. My favourite song "Jonathan David" was the highlight and the climax was "Lazy Line Painter Jane" with accompanying vocals from Monica Queen who sang on the original ep in 1997. I saw her in the audience and when the band reappeared for the encoure, Stuart invited her to the stage to sing with them. The entire set list was as follows;

* Another Sunny Day
* Sukie In The Graveyard
* The Model
* A Summer Wasting
* Dirty Dream Number Two
* Le Pastie De La Bourgeoisie
* The Wrong Girl
* If She Wants Me
* We Are The Sleepyheads
* Lord Anthony
* Funny Little Frog
* If You're Feeling Sinister
* The Blues are Still Blue
* Dog On Wheels
* I'm A Cuckoo
* Jonathan David
* If You Find Yourself Caught In Love
* Judy And The Dream Of Horses
* ENCORE
* Me And The Major
* Lazy Line Painter Jane

A great gig and made even better as I was able to take my daughter, who is also a big B&S fan, obviously! Roll on gig number 16!!

Al

R.I.P. Syd

2006-07-11T18:56:00.000Z

The world lost one of it's truely unique talents today when Syd Barrett passed away aged only 60. He was the early driving force behind Pink Floyd but despite being only in the band for three years and one album, his contribution cannot be downplayed.

He later became a recluse and his life dogged by mental illness some suggest brought on by drug abuse, but I for one will remember him for the songs he wrote like Arnold Lane. Sleep well Sid!

19 May - Yeah Yeah Yeahs @ Glasgow Barrowlands.

2006-05-20T00:46:00.000Z

What a great gig, I'd seen the Yeah Yeah Yeahs before and I really hope that tonight wasn't the last. Karen O is an amazing showman, she can be as theatrical as Ian Anderson one minute then become as punk as anything seen in the 70s the next then sing a beautiful gentle song, quite superb.

The crowd were right up for this and certainly lived up to Glasgows fierce reputation but it was surprising to see the bouncers act aggresively against loads of people, I'm not sure why, I was under the impression it was a rock n roll gig?

26 April - Morrissey and Sons & Daughters @ Greenock Town Hall.

2006-04-26T23:01:00.000Z

This tour was to promote Morrisseys latest album "Ringleaders of the Tormentors", which debuted at number 1 recently. I do like the new album, but it just seems like more of the same and there doesn't seem to be anything new, but its still growing on me and I am enjoying it. That said, a few years ago it seemed that we'd never have any new Morrissey material so we should be overjoyed by every new released and on the whole I'd say I am.

Sons and Daughters opened tonight and they were excellent. I'd seen the support Franz Ferdinand at the QMU before but they've come on leaps and bounds since then and I must admit that I could watch and listen to lead singer Adele Bethel all night. They played a few new songs, which also sounded great, although Johnny Cash was the highlight for me, what a top song.

This tour follows the last with s few dates in Town Halls. I like these quirky dates and rather than buy tickets for the Carling Academy in Glasgow decided to travel to Greenock Town Hall instead. These gigs seem to be more intimate and different than normal big venues and this was no exception.

The set list was exactly the same as that of the first night of the tour in Manchester and was;

'First Of The Gang To Die'
'Still Ill'
'You Have Killed Me'
'I Just Want To See The Boy Happy'
'The Youngest Was The Most Loved'
'My Life Is A Succession Of People Saying Goodbye'
'Reader Meet Author'
'Girlfriend In A Coma'
'To Me You Are A Work Of Art'
'I Will See You In Far Off Places'
'At Last I Am Born'
'Let Me Kiss You'
'Trouble Loves Me'
'A Song From Under The Floorboards'
'How Soon Is Now'
'Life Is A Pigsty'
'Irish Blood, English Heart'

It was a really good night but Mozza gigs are a bit predicatble now and aren't as special as they used to be, but I'm sure that won't stop me seeing him again this year at some point, of that I have no doubt.

Al

I'm currently listening to...

2006-04-20T23:01:00.000Z

1. Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins - "Rabbit Fur Coat" (Rough Trade)
2. Be Your Own Pet - "Be Your Own Pet" (X L Recordings)
3. Nick Drake - "Five Leaves Left" (Island)
4. Morrissey - "Ringleader of the Tormentors" (Attack)
5. The Wedding Present - "George Best" (Cooking Vinyl)

Plus shed loads of 7" singles!

19 April - Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins @ GUU Debating Chamber, Glasgow.

2006-04-20T22:37:00.000Z

I still can't believe that I managed to get a couple of tickets for this. Being slow off the mark, all agencies soon advertised that the gig was sold out but a last ditched attempt was successful and I am so glad I persevered.

The Debating Chamber at Glasgow University Union (not to be confused with the Queen Margaret Union) is like a church and I recon holds about 400/500, and it was the first time I'd been but I'd heard excellent reviews especially after Arcade Fire played there and the reports were right. Its very intimate without being small, and by being all seated meant the views were all pretty much unrestricted.

Jonathan Rice opened, I suppose it's easy to get support slots when your going out with the main act and his set was ok, I'm not a huge fan. He’s a bit like 90s Scottish band Del Amitra for me and I won't rush out to see him again.

But the same certainly can't be said for Jenny Lewis. Her set was amazing and the best gig I've been to this year. She wouldn't be out of place in the 60's and I hope she'll be as fondly remembered as the top women singers of that decade as she is easily as good. A beautiful voice, assisted by the fine Watson twins, and some of the most beautiful songs I think I've ever heard. If you don't already own her new album "Rabbit Fur Coat" then go out and buy it, believe me you won't be disappointed.

4 April - Guillemots, Beerjacket and Mistys Big Adventure @ King Tuts, Glasgow

2006-04-20T22:28:00.000Z

I offered to sell cds for Beerjacket tonight; therefore I totally missed his set, although from where I was standing it sounded excellent. The sound was tip top and there were a good amount of people in despite the very early start.

Mistys Big Adventure was by some way the strangest band I have ever seen. There were about 10 of them and the lead singer seemed to be dressed as a Muppet. Not my cup of teas but they seemed to have healthy following.

I love The Guillemots and their set didn't disappoint, however as I was completely knackered I left early but satisfied by the half hour I saw. They will be huge and deservedly so in my humble opinion.

21 March - The Raconteurs @ ABC, Glasgow.

2006-04-20T22:17:00.000Z

Seeing Jack White onstage in a small venue like then ABC in a kilt and the same band as Brendan Benson and a bass player seems like some strange dream, but it is indeed true. Taking a break from The White Stripes and teaming up with his old friend Brendan Benson, he has formed a band but although I did enjoy the show, I'm not sure exactly why he has decided to do it.

I'm a big fan of The White Stripes and Brendan Bensons solo albums but together I'm not sure if it entirely works. Some of the songs sound decidedly White Stripes influenced and the others like Brendan. I'm sure they will do well but I have the feeling it will do more for Brendan’s career than Jacks.

12 March - The Concretes (postponed)

2006-04-20T22:14:00.000Z

Woke up today and the world was white. About 2 feet of snow covered Coatbridge and any chance of driving to Mono for The Concretes album launch was gone. What a disappointment, even worse was the snow was cleared on Monday morning meaning we couldn't even have a nice duvet day from work.

19 March - Beerjacket and Lou Hickey @ The Mixing Rooms, Glasgow

2006-04-20T22:01:00.000Z

I'd never been in The Mixing Rooms before and it’s a strange set up. A thin long room and the stage, for want of a better term, is half way along the wall directly across from the main door. So the singer is 5 foot away from the comings and goings, which must be at very annoying.

Beerjacket seemed to be affected by this and even more so by the constant talking, which again in such a small venue must be off putting, but as per usual he played some great tunes and showcased his new album Accident History, which I would advise everyone to buy.

Lou Hickey was excellent, a lovely voice and accompanied by one of my favourite instruments, the cello! Check her out on myspace.

Annual Brits rant...2006

2006-02-16T00:06:00.000Z

Here is my annual rant over the ridiculous Brit awards that took place tonight at Earls Court in London.

Best Male + Pop Act - James Blunt
Best British Group + Live Act + Rock Act - Kaiserchiefs
Best Album + Single - Coldplay
Best Breakthrough - Arctic Monkeys
International Female - Madonna

Are these the most obvious awards in the history of awards? If the bands above are the cream the UK has to offer then maybe it's time I moved to Sweden.

The NME awards will be with us soon and I'll wager they will be as poor a selection.

Oh woe is me.

Al

10th Feb - Belle & Sebastian @ Hammersmith Apollo

2006-02-15T23:08:00.000Z

This was my 15th Belle & Sebastian gig but first in London and rather than dop more than one in Scotland we thought we'd have the weekend in London instead. I had never been to a gig in the Hammersmith Apollo and added to this, Brakes were in support so it all had the makings of a superb night.

Go Kart Mozart opened and although we were in early, we decided to sit in the bar and have a couple of pints of cider and listen from afar and they sounded good. It wasn't until later that I found out that this was Lawrence Haywards new band - ie the leader of the magnificent Felt.

Brakes are a strange band, their live set was totally different to their excellent debut album, but they went down well especially the 5 second epic "comma, comma, comma, full stop"! Superb.

It was a strange feeling being amoung a 5000 crowd at a B&S gig, I'm used to intimate gigs at The Arches, or the QMU and at the begining of this tour, rather than play one big show in Glasgow they played three smaller gigs. This is to their credit as other "Glasgow" bands like Franz Ferdinand seem to easily forget how bad bigger venues are and go for the money when they realise the SECC is a rubbish venue.

15 gigs on and you'd think I'd be getting bored but I can assure you this gig has only strengthened my love for B&S. It was good to hear the new songs after having had a copy of the album for a while but they were mixed in with some classics - including The State I'm In, La Pastie and Judy and the Dream of Horses - making this was a superb show.

Hopefully number 16 will be somewhere abroad but we'll keep that one to ourselves just now!

Al

8th Feb - Jenniferever & Beerjacket @ Bar Bloc, Glasgow

2006-02-15T22:58:00.000Z

Wednesday nights in Bar Bloc are becoming a bit of a habit. It’s not my favourite venue but when there is a free offering of Beerjacket and the magnificent Jenniferever, who am I to argue?

Peter has been on top form recently, the new album is excellent and his live shows are gaining more audience and he is becoming more confident and tonight was another strong show. I filmed it for him for the archive he is amassing and thoroughly enjoyed his 35 minute set.

Jenniferever are a Swedish band who makes an amazing noise, which was amplified in the small surroundings of Bloc. It was a strange venue for a band like them but their set was amazing and I bought their cd which blared in the car on the way home.

If you haven't heard them, check their myspace site out www.myspace.com/jenniferever

Al

The Nintendos

2006-02-09T02:18:00.000Z

After the gig on Friday night, I had alot of thinking to do. I wasn't impressed with the atitude and actions of the band during and after the debut gig and as such I resigned as manager with immediate effect.

Its disappointing after the work I've put in over the last 2 years but I felt that I had no choice and I do wish them well in the future.

Al

3 Feb - The Nintendos @ Furys, Glasgow

2006-02-05T12:46:00.000Z

This was the first gig of The Nintendos, who also happen to be the band that I "manage". I use that term lightly as I've had little to do with the band since we made the changes to the previous line up and put the old band to death.

The set started very well and the opening 2 songs gave me some hope that in the new form, the band could have a future, however from the third song, which was an old SmytherJones number, the set went downhill and the band seemed more interested in banter with their mates at the front of the stage and I lost interest in their set as I'm sure did a fair amount of other. A 5 minute break between songs and what I consider to be a terrible final song left my initial optimism dented and the less said about the after show antics the better but they have left me with the feeling that this band has some way to go and a lot of growing up to do if they have any interest in making it.

Al

Morrissey Tour May 2006

2006-01-28T19:04:00.000Z

5 dates in Scotland, including 3 in very easy reach, and I've only got tickets for Greenock, now thats what I call self control!

25th Jan - Beerjacket @ Bar Bloc, Glasgow

2006-01-28T18:39:00.000Z

Tonight was the official album launch of Beerjacket's third album "Accident History" and the first that Beerjacket would headline. It was good to see so many people turn up on a cold Wed night and shows the regard in which he is held, even if he himself find the adulation hard to accept!

Charlie from Cold Night Song opened and played some great songs, he runs gigs on a Sunday at The Goat in Glasgow, an excellent night of acoustic music in a nice pub in the fantastic west end. Check it out of you haven't already.

Peter's set was a great mix of new and old and convinced a good few to buy a cd and hopefully come to other shows. The climax of the show was my personal favourite Barricade, which was a great end to a very enjoyable night.

I have a feeling that 2006 could be a big one for Mr Beerjacket. If you haven't already checked him out do so quickly at www.myspace.com/beerjacket.

Al

This month I have been mostly listening to...

2006-01-22T02:49:00.000Z

1. Beerjacket - Accident History
2. Belle & Sebastian - The Life Pursuit (Rough Trade)
3. Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger (Warp)
4. We Are Scientists - With Love and Squalor (Virgin)
5. Wolf Parade - Apologies to the Queen Mary (Sub Pop)

15 Jan - Belle & Sebastian @ ABC, Glasgow

2006-01-22T02:23:00.000Z

This was my first gig of 2006 and also my first visit to the new ABC venue, which is located in Sauchiehall Street in Glasgow. Its an old cinema and a similar size to the Barrowlands and Academy and its well worth the excellent reviews its been receiving since opening late last year. Great sound, a good sized venue and lots of space to stand despite the gig being sold out. I look forward to many more visits!

Belle & Sebastian are about to release their 7th studio album, their 2nd on Rough Trade, and have embarked on a UK tour prior to the release of "The Life Pursuit", which includes 3 sold out nights at the ABC, a sold out night at the Hammersmith Apollo, and I have a feeling that this album could well be their biggest selling album since forming in 1996 and having heard the album its well worth it.

The gig was superb and the new songs were very well received by the home town crowd, but they did a good mix of new and old and I was delighted to hear Fox In The Snow, which is an played rarely and the encore was memorable, especially for the guy from the front row who went onstage and sang almost every word of Judy and the Dream of Horses, well done that man.

A great start to the year for me and a solid start to the tour for B&S and I have a feeling that the change to Rough Trade is going to really pay off this year.

Al

Top 12 Compilation of the year

2005-12-31T20:07:00.000Z

OK, here it is, my compilation of the 2005. It was a difficult choice this year as I've found loads of excellent music this year but these 12 seem to represent 2005 very well.

1. Broadcast - Americas Boy
2. Sufjan Stevens - Jacksonville
3. Maximo Park - Grafitti
4. Brakes - Ring A Ding Ding
5. The Rakes - 22 Grand Job
6. Findo Gask - Fly For
7. Arctic Monkeys - I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor
8. Anthony and the Johnsons - Hope There's Someone
9. Devendra Banhart - I Fell Like Just Like A Child
10.Arcade Fire - Rebellion (Lies)
11. Bloc Party - Banquet
12. Errors - h.e.b.s.

Number 1 is Broadcast and this is not by chance. Tender Buttons is my album of the year, its outstanding and if you haven't heard it I would suggest you buy it, trust me you won't be disappointed. Antony and the Johnsons are also there, its been amazing year for them and not soon enough for me. "I Am A Bird Now" is amazing and a joy to see live.

A couple of new bands have also made it onto the list, Errors and Findo Gask released a double A side 7" on Too Many Fireworks and I'm looking forward to more of their releases next year.

Belle & Sebastian @ Castlemilk in October is my gig of the year, only B&S would do a gig like that and it was well worth the £10 ticket price.

Well, thats all for now, have a fantastic new year and all the best for 2006.

Peace

Al

13 Dec - Findo Gask, Some Young Pedro and Errors @ 13th Note Cafe, Glasgow.

2005-12-16T11:50:00.000Z

This gig came on the back of a double A side 7" release on Too Many Fireworks featuring Findo Gask and Errors. I hadn't heard the Findo Gask side of the 7" but they really impressed me tonight. The lead singer is also lead singer of Otterley, another band that I have discovered this year and Findo Gask were just as good. I look forward to their following releases.

Some Young Pedro played next with their very very loud and bassy sound. They were good but their 20 minute set shook the whole place and 20 minutes was about enough for me.

Errors played last and were excellent. They have an ep coming out in the new year on Rock Action records, which I am looking forward to and would suggest you check them out! The set was great and I think they'll be around for some time yet.

Al

Seven Inch Nation Army

2005-12-05T20:19:00.000Z

I sold my entire vinyl collection about 12 years ago and made an uneasy transition to cds, and with hindsight it has proved to be the right thing and I have never looked back.

However, while watching a documentary on channel 4 recently about the great John Peel I was forced into rethinking this strategy. Don't get me wrong, I'm not about to go on a mad buying spree of vinyl, but I have been reminded of the beauty of the 7" single. I had some that I didn't get rid of and I continued to buy a few, mostly B&S and Badly Drawn Boy as well as a few limited ones, but apart from that every piece of music was purchased on compact disc...untill now.

In the last few weeks I've more than made up for it and bought singles by;

The Rezillos, The Specials, Kraftwerk, Broadcast, Andy Votel, Camera Obscura, Roy Moller, The Selector, Sandie Shaw, Adam and the Ants, Badly Dawn Boy, Antony and the Johnsons and a couple of Belle & Sebastian.

I think thats all but watch this space for shed loads more!

Al

PS And I'll be able to listen to them when I buy a turntable!

I Am Currently Listening To...

2005-12-04T14:41:00.000Z

It's been a while so here is a list of what I am listening to at the moment;

1. Broadcast, Tender Buttons (Warp)
2. Morvern Callar, OST (Warp)
3. Parsley Sound, Parsley Sound (Mo Wax)
4. Badly Drawn Boy, The Hour of Bewilderbeast (Twisted Nerve)
5. Nick Drake, Five Leaves Left (Island)

Al

30th Nov - Antony and the Johnsons @ Academy, Glasgow

2005-12-04T12:41:00.000Z

Due to being too busy at work, gigs have been few and far between recently but tonight was one I wasn't going to let anything make me miss. Since winning the Mercury, Antony has receved the plaudits that his musical talents deserve.

The first thing that was strange was being told by security that there was no smoking in the auditorium, I don't smoke so being in a smoke-free zone was superb and show how plesant life will be when the smoking ban finally comes in.

We managed to catch the support which came from one of Antonys backing band - whose name I forget - but he was cool and Antony came out to duet on the last song.

Antonys set was outstanding. His band (drums, bass, cello, 2 violins and guitar) is a beautiful accompanyment to the piano and his wonderfully unique voice. The crowd stood in silent awe throughout the set and on the few occassions that people decided to chat, they were quickly told to be quiet.

An amazing night and I'm already looking forward to the next album.

Al

13th Oct - Camera Obscura @ King Tuts, Glasgow.

2005-10-15T00:10:00.000Z

Its already a year since legendary Radio 1 DJ John Peel sadly passed away and to celebrate his life and the huge contribution he made to the music world, the BBC arranged John Peel Day. People all over the country were encouraged to put on gigs in the great mans honour and our gig of choice was Camera Obscura and the Sluts of Trust at King Tuts.

We stayed in the bar for the opening band and waited for Camera Obscura. I've always like Camera Obscura and they have never received the recognition that I think they deserve but John Peel always loved them and invited them to his home to do a session on a couple of occassions. They have been recording their third album in Sweden recently and it was obvious that they hadn't been able to put in much rehearsal and to be honest some of their set was a bit shambolic but it was enjoyable enough and ending in my personal favourite "Eighties Fan" made my night.

Next up was the sluts, and this was the first gig I've seen since Anthony left and John decided to shave his head. The new drummer seems great and after getting used to Johns hair (or lack of it) it was a great set, they played a few new songs that sounded good and the old songs seem to be different with the new drummer. I'm not sure if they have a record deal but I do hope they do and we get a new album some time soon.

All in all a good night and as both bands were favorites of John Peel it was a fitting tribute.

Rest In Peace John.

Al

8 Oct - Belle & Sebastian @ Castlemilk Community Centre

2005-10-10T18:18:00.000Z

Only a band like Belle & Sebastian would play Castlemilk Community Centre. I've said it before, inbetween major tours they play sporadic gigs is strange places usually to raise money for charity but Castlemilk was playing host to the first Popped Festival and B&S were the Saturday night headliners.

This was my third chance to hear snippets of the new album, which is due for release in early 2006, and apart from one of the tracks, the new album sound very encouraging!

The set lasted an hour and a half and the band looked very relaxed and seemed the enjoy the intimate show. The obligatory request section saw Stevie Jackson sing the Bob Dylan classic Subterranian Homesick Blues and if that wasn't enough his dancing during Electronic Renaissance was the funniest thing I've seen for ages!

Setlist;

The State I Am In
Another Sunny Day
Meat and Potatoes
The Loneliness Of A Middle Distance Runner
Mayfly
To Be Myself Completely
Electronic Renaissance
White Collar Boy
Subterranean Homesick Blues (Bob Dylan)
Get Me Away From Here, I'm Dying
Dog On Wheels
The Boy With The Arab Strap
Sukie In The Graveyard
Me And The Major
The Wrong Girl
Judy And The Dream Of Horses
Sleep The Clock Around

ENCORE
I'm A Cuckoo

No Fox In The Snow, despite our constant shouts but it was a superb night and definately one we'll be talking about for years to come.

Al

2 Oct - Beerjacket @ The Goat

2005-10-02T23:18:00.000Z

Another good night at The Goat. Oh how I wish I lived within a short walk of there, but 12 miles is the best I can currently do and its always well worth the visit. However, for the first time the crowd pissed me off as it seemed they had been booked by the people that run Bar Bloc as rather tha enjoy the music they all seemed to want to chat and make as muich noise as possible when the turns were on...poor show you ragamuffins!

A couple of new tunes that I hadn't heard which will be on the new album which will hopefully be out in the next couple of months and on first hearing they sounded excellent.

I look forward to my next visit to The Goat but there will be better behaviour next time I hope...

Al

18th Sept - Belle & Sebastian @ Perth Concert Hall

2005-09-20T22:45:00.000Z

The word from L.A. is that the new Belle & Sebastian album is finished and should be released to an expectant public in January 2006. Recording the new album in America is a far cry from the debut Tigermilk, which was recorded by students at Stow College in Glasgow but hopefully the new offering will be good and I for one am very much looking forward to it.

Tonight's gig was to celebrate the opening of the new and very posh Perth Concert Hall. I'm not sure why a small city like Perth needs a Concert Hall but it's got one and very nice it is too.

I say it every time I see B&S that there are always surprises and tonight was no different. On the 25th of this month B&S play a special concert at The Barbican in London where they will be playing their superb album "If You're Feeling Sinister" from beginning to end and tonight was an ideal opportunity for a rehearsal. They played 6 from that album, a few classics, "Electronic Renaissance" with Stuart Murdoch singing from the back of the hall so he could hear how good the Hall sounded!, a couple of new songs and a superb cover of "Oliver's Army" by Elvis Costello and the crowd went home very happy.

They just seem to go from strength to strength as a live band and during the final song "Sleep The Clock Around" I counted 13 musicians delivering a wonderful finale.

After my mates Blair and Kerry's wedding the day before, this was the end of a brilliant weekend.

Al

The Nationwide Mercury Music Prize 2005

2005-09-06T22:43:00.000Z

I bought Antony and the Johnsons latest album "I Am A Bird Now" at the weekend and have since listened to it seven or eight times and it has completely blown me away. Antonys unique haunting vocals are incredible and the entire album is an immense work of beauty.

It is without a doubt the best album of 2005 and as such deserved to win the Nationwide Mercury Music prize. His performance at the awards gripped the entire audience into silence and proved to be a very popular choice, with a well deserved standing ovation when his name was announced.

And perhaps the best part of the night was seeing the smirk wiped off the lead singer of Kaiser Chiefs, who was positive he just had to turn up to collect the award.

Well done Antony, see you at the Academy on 30 November and sweet dreams.

Al

Links!

2005-08-27T15:30:00.000Z

It has taken a while, but I've finally learned how to add links to my blog. Next there will be photographs, but one step at a time!! Below I'll give a little info on each link and why I've choen it, do explore these sites if you so desire.

JockRock - A site dedicated to the vibrant Scottish Indie music scene. There is news, reviews and a highly entertaining messageboard.

NME - Poor magazine now in my opinion but an excellent place to find out the music news first.

B&S - Home of the quite magnificent Belle & Sebastian, who are in my opinion the finest band in the world.

Beerjacket - A site showcasing the fine work of my good friend Peter Kellys solo project. Get on and listen, the boy will be well know soon enough.

Twisted Nerve Records - Superb label started by Andy Votel and Badly Drawn Boy, also home of Aidan Smith and Misty Dixon. Brilliant site and well worth a look.

King Tuts - This is without a doubt the best venue in Glasgow, the list of bands that have played in the past in impressive and it continues being the favoured venue of new and up and coming bands.

The Goat - This is a pub in the west end of Glasgow which puts free gigs on, see previous posts for my enthusiasm for this place!

Albion Rover - Coatbridges professional football team and the team I have followed since I was a young boy. We may be languishing in the lower divisions of Scottish football but who cares.

Fight Director - I had to put this one in or my mate Carter would have moaned! For all your fight direction requirements contact Carter through his website.

A Strange Summer - Part 2!

2005-08-25T20:45:00.000Z

Due to a series of unfortunate events, I was unable to travel to Edinburgh for VHS or BETA...boo hoo. Its been a bad day and if missing the gig wasn't bad enough the cricket was rained off!

Oh well, roll on The Pixies on Sunday, oh yes.

Al

Mercury Music Prize 2005

2005-08-13T08:50:00.000Z

Lets not waste time, my favourite album from the list below is The Magic Numbers but I'll wager that Kaiser Chiefs will win. Its not a bad album but not the most inspiring. If they do win, at least it won;t be Coldplay.

Bloc Party – 'Silent Alarm'
Hard-Fi –'Stars Of CCTV'
Kaiser Chiefs – 'Employment'
MIA – 'Arular'
The Magic Numbers – 'The Magic Numbers'
Coldplay – 'X&Y'
The Go! Team – 'Thunder, Lightning Strike'
Antony And The Johnsons – 'I Am A Bird Now'
KT Tunstall – 'Eye To The Telescope'
Maximo Park – 'A Certain Trigger'
Seth Lakeman – 'Kitty Jay'
Polar Bear – 'Held On The Tips Of Fingers'

Its an achievment to be chosen for the list and no doubt very good for cd sales.

Al

SmytherJones R.I.P.

2005-08-13T08:42:00.000Z

The end has come for SmytherJones, musical differences and questionable commitment from a couple of members has seen the band split up. But for me and three of the band, a new band is in the process of being formed with a new bass player and new found enthusiam and all going well a new demo will be made very soon and we can get back into the business of giging!

More soon...

Al

A Strange Summer

2005-08-13T08:29:00.000Z

This is the first summer that I can remember that I'm not going to a festival, tickets for Leeds, T in the P, Reading and of course Glastonbury see out well before any line ups are announced and I'm an old traditionalist and would rather give a festival organiser money for bands I actually want to see. However, I'm discovering that maybe next summer we should decide on what dates we like and just go for it, a scary prospect for me.

Therefore, as compensation for a disappointing summer I have arranged tickets for several gigs in the next couple of months. These include;

The Pixies, Idlewild and Teenage Fanclub @ Meadowbank Stadium in Edinburgh
VHS or BETA @ Cabaret Voltaire in Edinburgh
The Magic Number @ The Glasgow Barrowlands
Broadcast @ the ABC2 in Glasgow
Belle & Sebastian @ Perth Town Hall

A good start to the last half of the year I'm sure you'll agree and hopefully there will be a good few more to add to that list soon enough.

Al

15 June - Belle & Sebastian @ The Arches, Glasgow.

2005-06-16T19:51:00.000Z

It's always nice to hear the announcement of an unexpected Belle & Sebastian gig and it's usually due to some charity event and this was no exception. Tonight, money was being raised for a charity that is campaigning at the upcoming G8 summit in Gleneagles, a worthy cause as G8Alternatioves are fighting the world leaders for the common man! Log onto their websit at;

http://www.g8alternatives.org.uk

Support came from Flying Matchstickmen, a local electornic-synth-indie-pop band, full of energy and led by the charismatic Graham Peel. I've seen them before and knew they'd go down well, great tunes and Grahams inbetween song patter is always a camp treat.

After this came a couple of videos to show why there should be protests at Gleneagles but the majority of the 800 strong crowd was there for B&S and to be honest mostly ignored the videos.
Then came the headline act and with the promise of new material the atmosphere was excellent. They started with 4 new songs, which all sounded excellent, then played requests from the crowd. Add another couple of newbees and a strong finish saw an hour of great live music and the usual blend of panto, but it wouldn't be a Belle & Sebastian gig without it.

Roll on album number 8!

Al

Setlist

Another Sunny Day
Sooky In The Graveyard
Mr. Richard
For The Price Of A Cup Of Tea
Dog On Wheels
The Wrong Girl
A14
The Blues are Still Blue
The Life Pursuit
White Collar Boy
ENCORE
Sleep The Clock Around
Judy And The Dream Of Horses

17 May - The Magic Numbers @ King Tuts, Glasgow.

2005-05-19T22:23:00.000Z

Here are 3 reasons to love The Magic Numbers;

1. What other bands 4 members are made up of two sets of siblings?
2. Beards are great.

...finally and most importantly;

3. Their music is superb!!

I was very excited at the prospect of this gig as the Magic Numbers tunes I had heard were excellent and I must confess to being very excited about this band. Their first single and album are due for imminent release but thanks to a member of a Magic Numbers forum, I got a copy of a London gig, which seriously whetted my appetite.

We decided to wait at the bar while the support bands were on, but I still managed to squeeze my way to the front just in time for the beginning of their set and what a set it was. It became clear very quickly that all was not well with lead singer Romeo's voice as in between songs he sounded as if his throat was very sore...bless. He then said that the gig was touch and go but instead of disappointing the fans, they cancelled a session with my favourite radio DJ - Billy Sloan. Nae luck Billy!

The set list for those who care was;

The Mule,
Long Legs,
Don't Give Up The Fight,
Forever Lost
I See You, You See Me
Hymn For Her
Love's A Game Love Me
Like You
---
Try
Mornings Eleven
'The Beard'

A great set with Forever Lost and Hym For Her my personal favourites. Go out and buy the single and the album!!

Al

15 May - Beerjacket and The One Who Flew @ The Goat, Glasgow.

2005-05-19T20:56:00.000Z

Sunday nights in The Goat, which is in the west end of Argyle Street, is acoustic night and they don't half get some top acts and tonight was no exception with the fantastic Beerjacket and The One Who Flew. There was also a third act whose name escapes me right now...sorry!

All three were superb and it was good the finally hear TOWF and I would urge people in the west end to get along on a Sunday night and support this wonderful night.

Al

What am I listening too just now?

2005-05-04T23:20:00.000Z

Prior to The Fall, it was a few months since my last gig and as such any update on here so just to bring you up to speed, below are 5 bands I am currently listening too...

1. The Fall
2. The Magic Numbers (class new band, they'll be huge very soon.)
3. Yo La Tengo
4. My Bloody Valentine
5. Gang of Four

Nice.

Al

1 May - SmytherJones @ Blackfriars Cellar, Glasgow.

2005-05-04T23:09:00.000Z

Just a quick update on SmytherJones. A sunday night and our sixth gig of the year. This was booked at the last minute but that didn't stop 30 or so people coming to see us, the bank holiday Monday seemed to help! We played alongside The Prayers who were very good but too Stone Roses at time and Fade, who we've played with at Furys in the past.

Due to being a lazy bastard, I left before we went onstage once I had checked the place out so I can only go from what the band told me but they seemed very happy.

A great venue too, somewhere that I'll definately return to, hopefully to run my own gigs.

Bye

Al

28 Apr - The Fall @ QMU, Glasgow.

2005-05-04T22:34:00.000Z

A first for me tonight. Why I have not seen The Fall before now is a mystery to me as I've loved them for years but nothing was going to stop me this time. The gig was originally to be at the Renfrew Ferry but its refurbishment meant a switch the Glasgow Universitys Queen Margaret Union (QMU) and although I had looked forward to attending my first gig in a boat, the QMU is superb and I was actually quite pleased.

A quick mention of the support act, Uncle John and Whitlock, I'd heard quite a bit about this band but not actually heard their music and I was glad to be in on time to catch their set, do check them out if you can.

After a wait of almost 2 hours, The Fall came onstage and began with Theme From Starka FC, which was superb and from then on in every song was superb. I was concerned about how fit Mark E. Smith would be for the gig as he does appear a little "unfit" when I've seen him recently on TV but what a showman. His constant fiddling with the guitar and bass amps was hilarious for the audience but a pain in the arse for the musicians onstage, and his insistence on having the mic stands stuffed into the bass drum and random synth solos were also very funny and showed a cheeky school boy side that was very entertaining.

A great gig and I'd encourage everyone to witness The Fall before Mark E. Smith hangs up his mic stand for good, which surely can't be too long in the future.

Top stuff.

Al

19 Feb - Tsunami Benefit @ SECC, Glasgow.

2005-02-20T01:24:00.000Z

10,000 people packed into the Scottish Exhibition Centre tonight to raise money for the victims of the Asian tsunami that devastated much of Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia and the Philippines on Boxing Day. All artists, stage crew, ushers, drivers and even security guards worked for free and even the tickets didn't incur their customary "booking fee".

The line up seemed impressive with Mogwai, Idlewild, Teenage Fanclub as well as Scottish favorites Travis, Texas and Franz Ferdinand and as such the tickets sold out in 2 days, making around £300,000 for the very worthy cause.

As the night was for such a good cause I'm not going to be my usual critical and cynical self, instead below are my high and low points of the evening.

High Points

Idlewilds acoustic performance was superb.
Mogwai's whole set, superb.
Travis who finally got the crowd rocking.
"Jesus Don't Want Me For A Sunbeam"

Low Points

SLAM...why were they asked to do a set exactly? Totally out of place.
Belle and Sebastian did themselves no favours by having sound problems, but this is not the first time this has been the case and I firmly blame their sound guy who is obviously mince.
Teenage Fanclub's set was disappointing, I don't understand why bands play new songs that no-one knows at a gig like this, from that performance they are a shadow of the band that released Bandwagonesque.
The Mull Historical society's Colin MacIntry now looks like Leo Sayer but still believes himself to be some sort of musical god, when this clearly isn't the case.
Seeing Billy Sloan in the flesh and not punching him for being such an arse.

OK, more low points that high points but I'm glad I went and the deep fried pizza after went down a treat after. Now I think it's time for bed.

Goodnight. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

NME Awards

2005-02-19T01:36:00.000Z

In my younger days, I would read the NME religiously and buy into any band that they decided to push but now I am much more choosy, maybe cynical and when once these awards were important, for me they now lack the edge and aren't as "alternative" as they once were.

There weren't that many surprises really but nothing that really offended me and it was interesting that Franz Ferdinand continue their amazing year and also that it was another empty awards ceremony for Snow Patrol. The superbly named "Godlike Genius Award" that has previously gone to Alan McGhee, The Beatles and John Peel went to New Order and who could argue with that.

Special mention must go to John Peels wife and son who attended the awards ceremony to collect the "Hero of the Year" gong for John. This was a very brave thing to do and Fergal Sharkey gave a beautiful speech that resulted in a standing ovation and more than a few tears.

Award shows are not my cup of tea as one mans Beatles is another mans Busted but at least rather than being decided by a group of industry bigwigs, these awards are voted by the readers of the NME, but then the winners list has probably more to do with editorial decition rather than raw talent and originality.

Al

17 Feb - Arab Strap @ King Tuts, Glasgow.

2005-02-19T01:03:00.000Z

Tonights gig was a sell out and arriving late was not a good idea. I got in at 9.25 missing the support act apart from his final 3 chords and a bit flustered after an insane drive through the maze of road works that currently litter Glasgow . I don't like missing the support bands and especially tonight as the support was by my good friend Peter Kelly or Beerjacket as he is known (see album review below). But I'm sure I'll be at the next Beerjacket gig and so should you!

I was very much looking forward to seeing Arab Strap again. The last time had been a couple of years ago at an acoustic gig in the vegetarian restaurant/pub Mono and it was a little disappointing. However, there was a excited buzz in the crowd and they certainly didn't disappoint this time. If you are unaware of Arab Strap, they have a very gentle musical style which contrasts sharply with a gruff Scottish vocal delivery of some outstanding lyrics.

Although I was completely knackered, it was a good night and I decided to enjoy the gig from the safety of the bar, maybe I'm getting too old for this!

Peace

Al

T in the Park phenomenon

2005-02-15T01:09:00.000Z

Tickets for this years T in the Park festival went onsale on Saturday and two days later the tickets have almost sold out. This is strange as the majority of the line up has yet to be announced. Therefore, either the few bands who have been announced (Green Day, Foo Fighters, Keane, The Killers....) are massive draws or the music is beginning to take a back seat and like Glastonbury, T in the P has established itself as a good weekend away with music as an after-thought or cynically maybe the touting business is alive and well.

I'll not be going this year as I am something of a traditionalist and feel the line up is extremely important, but it would appear that I am in the minority.

Enjoy.

Al

14 Feb - SmytherJones @ The Glasgow Barfly

2005-02-15T00:54:00.000Z

I'm updating this less than two hours after the gig as I've now got 3 gigs on this week! It'll be a busy one so on with the review.

We've played Barfly on a few occassions now and its a favourite venue for the band and tonight was no exception. The first 3 songs were delivered very tightly and all was going well untill "Conservative Nation No More" when a few errors led to a dodgy finish. The next song was plagued by sound problems but they recovered well with a strong ending with a cover of the Pink Floyd classic "The Wall".

A good night and a livley crowd that enjoyed the hospitality of the band room while The Coast played onstage, and as such I am unaware of how theior set went...sorry guys.

Next up Arab Strap and Berrjacket at King Tuts, roll on Thursday.

Good night.

Al

Beerjacket - Great Unhappiness

2005-02-10T23:09:00.000Z

What a superb new collection of songs from Peter Kelly under the name Beerjacket. This is his second album in under a year and if I were you I'd get on his website and buy it from him before the third album come out! The highlight for me if Barricade and watch out for a couple of magnificent live photos on the album sleeve taken by me. Surely Mr Kelly will go places with this project.

Log on to his website at www.beerjacket.co.uk with all haste!

Al

The Bloody Brit Awards

2005-02-10T22:57:00.000Z

Oh dear, oh dear, oh deary me...what has happened to this world we live in? All I will say is if Keanes album is the best of the year and Robbie Williams "Angels" in the best song in 25 years, I'm a Dutchman.

Oh how I wish people would not simply accept the music that record companies decide is good enough for us and have a little bit more interest in the music that is going on in the local area. There are loads of good bands playing in Glasgow just now (eg. The Flying Matchstick Men, The Multiplies, Kasule etc) and unless they get massive record deals and are played on radio1 no one will ever hear them, and that would be a tragedy.

Nice to see Franz Ferdinand win a couple of awards but I must say I prefered them when they were a top Glasgow "indie" band and not the media monsters that they have become, but I suppose thats what happens when you get signed.

Al

5 Feb - SmytherJones @ Furys

2005-02-10T22:44:00.000Z

Its been a while but this was my first gig of the year, for purely economic reasons you understand. Unfortunately due to the excesses of Christmas and New Year I've missed The Dears, The Multiplie and Flying Matchstick Men and Adam Green! Shocking I'm sure you'll agree.

So the first gig of the year and its Furys again and this time it was the final of King of Bands competition with the band I manage, SmytherJones. I've probably said it before but I'll not apologise for repeating, but battle of the band competitions are terrible and do nothing for anyone taking part. Bands taking part and being knocked out may think they are rubbish whereas, and probably much worse, the winners will get an inflated ego believing themselves to be better than they really are.

Prior to the final we decided that this would be the last battle of the bands we would play and also the final night at Furys, this is our 4th gig there and there will be no 5th.

Without going into details as this will turn into something of a rant, we didn't win (not that I had expected to win or care for that mater) and The Peroxide Submarines were robbed in my opinion. Check them out if you get the chance!

Not the best gig to start the year on but as the song says things can only get better!

Happy New Year by the way,

Al

13 Dec - Morrissey @ SECC Glasgow

2004-12-24T14:26:00.000Z

Yes, I do realise that this is getting mildly ridiculous, as the SECC gig was my 5th Morrissey gig this year (see previos Manchester, Perth, Paisley and the Leeds festival) but you know what, although I am begining to feel like a bit of a stalker, I'll be at the next one. Morrissey concerts used to be years apart and while Mozza is on fire I'm going to take advantage of seeing every possible gig that is nearby.

The bonus with this was a support slot by PJ Harvey and what a support slot it was. I arrived just as she came onstage and I will definately try and see her again in her own right, as this was possibly the best support performance I have ever seen.

There isn't much I can add about the main act as it would read like hero worship, all I will say that Morrissey is a superb showman and can still spring the odd surprise or two!

Roll on 2005 and hopefully some more Mozza gigs!

There is a light that never goes out...

Al

30 Nov - Sluts Of Trust @ The Glasgow Barfly

2004-12-24T14:12:00.000Z

Rumors hightened the need to attend this gig and as such a babysitter was employed at the last minute. A wee bird had told me that this would be the last gig of the Sluts of Trust current line up and that changes were on the horizon so it would be special.

The rumours were confirmed when Anthony advised me before the gig that he had quit the band and the 2 piece would be cut in half! But rather than the story ending there, a bass player and new drummer have already been taken on and a host of new songs and a new sound should appear in the new year. Its a shame really as I love the band and have followed them for the last 18 months since signing to Chemical, although in hindsight I'm not sure how Chemical thought they would grow with little or no money invested in their publicity and promotion. I feel they were not properly looked after by Chemical and it comes aas no surpirse that they have parted company. Chemical Underground will be a lesser place without the sluts but hopefully someone will sign them and allow them to flurish.

Anyway, back to the gig. It was the wosrt I have seen them play and it took them a while to get into the swing of things, probably due to their previous period of inaction but by the end the old magic had returned but from where I was standing it was clear that Anthony had had enough and was emotionally drained by the end. But I'm sure he'll come back withsomeone else as he is a very talented drummer and shocking ly nice guy.

The gig was an Xfm showcase and 2 of thye other bands were superb The Multiplies and Jawbone but the third (whose name eludes me right now) were horrific and wuite frankly embarasing. when I remember their name I will amend this to save you from a watching one of their shocking sets.

All in all a good night but a strange one as it felt like the end of an era but hopefully a new dawn for the Sluts and I'm sure John will come back bigger and stronger and will have the sucess that a talent like his deserves.

Peace

Al

12 Nov - SmytherJones @ 13th Note Cafe

2004-12-24T14:08:00.000Z

Great gig tonight, we were first on and opened with a new song (currently untitled), which I was concerned about but it was quite superb and will hopefully be recorded in the New Year. The 35 minutes flew in for me and afterwards we drank and were merry after a great show.

More of the same in 2005 please!

Al

Tribute to John Peel

2004-10-26T22:09:00.000Z

Today at the age of 65, legendary DJ John Peel died suddenly of a heart attack. He was on holiday with his wife in Peru when the tragedy struck and a waves of sadness was sent round the musical world as soon as the news broke.

Johns radio career was spent playing his favourite music and championing new bands that he felt passionate about, giving them a name and making people notice them simply bacuase he liked them. I honestly can't remember him playing something that I felt he had been told to and I firmly believe that the only music he played for that he was moved by and felt deserved played to the world.

On a personal level, he endorsed many of my favourite artists like Belle and Sebastian and Camera Obscura and only last year invited my frineds John and Anthony who make up The Sluts of Trust to London to record a famous Peel Session, which was broadcast with his unique enthusiam some weeks later. I was proud that friends of mine had made it to his show and inclusion in his Festive 50 capped a breakthrough year for them that I am sure they will never forget.

I know exactly what his family are going through as I lost my own father just over a year ago and the next few months will be extremely difficult for them, but I hope the thousands of messages on message boards all over the world will give them strength and remind them to celebrate the memory that will live on in the legacy that John set throughout his remarkable career that was his life.

His simple honesty as a broadcaster will be missed and in my opinion its the end of an era and I doubt his show will find a strong enough character with enough power in the musical world to remain pushing unsigned acts and helping build careers efore being shelved and replaced by some faceless DJ playing tunes from the Radio 1 playlist. Its the end of an era but without a shadow of a doubt, no one will ever forget the greatest ever radio DJ.

Thanks John and rest in peace.

Al

24 Oct - SmytherJones @ Fury Murrys

2004-10-26T20:50:00.000Z

Tonight was the "King of Bands" competition at Fury Murrys. I hate battle of the band comptetions, which "King of Bands" essentially is, but we decided to play as the band are getting tighter onstage and the more live shows the better.

We had strictly 20 minutes so we rehearsed 4 songs, which timed at 19 minutes and although not close to the best live show we've done it was enough to get into the semi final on the 27th November. Do come along, tickets £4!

cheers

Al

16 Oct (matinee) - Franz Ferdinand @ Glasgow Barrowlands

2004-10-17T23:20:00.000Z

Yes you read it right, this was the matinee gig for under 18s and their parents. The tickets strangely said no under 5s, which I thought was a bit obvious but how wrong I was, the number of kids aged 6/7 was incredible. I have the feeling that these kids were there for the accompanying adults benefit and not their own love of indie pop but I always have been a bit of s cynic.

This was the strangest gig I have ever been to by a country mile. I've never been in the Barrowlands in the afternoon and with so many kids it was difficult to believe it wasn't Steps or some other ghastly pop act taking to the stage. I've also never seen a glow stick at the Barras or been unable to have a pint. However on the positive side the usual drinks prices were no where to be seen, £120 for a pint of diet coke and only £1 for a bottle of water! I'm digressing but I want you to share my Twilight Zone feelings.

What about the gig, the actual music, that's what its all about is it not? Franz Ferdinand are an excellent live band and have perfected a tight live show during their years of gigging in Glasgow before they achieved their phenomenal success. That can't be denied and they did a strong set to a very enthusiastic audience.

Look, I've been a big fan for some time, but a gig for kids? That's just plain odd, they looked like the musical equivalent of the Chuckle Brothers. Especially when they had some audience participation when they asked the weans to help them write a song, it was like panto time at the Barras. I was embarrassed for them as was my ten year old who said she preferred them at Leeds when there were no wee neds to annoy her!

Surely when kids attend a gig they are playing at being older and surely the last thing they want is to be made to feel their age or younger? Maybe I am wrong but the whole thing left me bewildered and with a real hope that this was a one off and that FF et al will not begin playing to more kids and extending their merchandising stands that are already full of overpriced rubbish.

Come back to the right age band guys, Saturday afternoon did nothing for your street cred and coolness, and for a band whose entire image is that of cool hipsters, beware or it could all come crashing down as fast as it arrived.

Al

15 Oct - Ian Brown @ The Carling Academy Glasgow

2004-10-15T23:48:00.000Z

The crowd was buzzing for this gig and it was clear as soon as we got into the Academy that something special was going to happen. The venue was full of energy and excitment and the roof was nearly blown off when Ian Brown walked onstage.

As if things couldn't get any better, he blasted out a string of Stone Roses classics to the delight and almost insane reaction from the 2500 fans who had been given what they had hoped. To let you understand, since The Stone Roses split, Ian Brown has not performed any Stone Roses songs. There were rumours that this tour would be different but untill the opening bars of "Sally Cinamon" it was only a rumour, a dream but occasionally dreams do come true.

"I Wanna Be Adored", "Waterfall", "Sugar Spun", "Made of Stone", "She Bangs The Drum" - yes it was more than most had hoped but add the cream of his solo back catalogue, culminating in my personal favourite The FEAR and it was an unforgetable night.

I won't forget the sight of Ian Brown tonight, standing like a witch doctor shaking his tambourine staff towards the adoring fans and its clear that he is in his prime and has a good few years in him yet.

Oh yes we adore.

Al

8 Oct - Thanksgiving, Thee Moths, Beerjacket @ Tchai-Ovna, Glasgow.

2004-10-09T23:35:00.000Z

I was really looking forward to this gig, although it was always going to be different - 3 acoustic acts in a tea shop in the south side of Glasgow, one from Coatbridge, one from Dundee and one from the USA! All three were superb and below is a wee bit on each performace;

First up was Beerjacket. I've written loads about Peter and don't really have to add much more here (see below). A superb set as usual and the new stuff continue the winning formula. Check out the new stuff at http://www.beerjacket.co.uk

Next up was Thee Moths, which is currently made up with just Alex Botten. This was a band that I had wanted to see for some time and Alex short set was excellent and very well received by the small audience and I for one look forward to seeing them again soon. http://www.theemoths.co.uk It was also great to talk to Alex after the gig and the new cd single is heartely recommended.

The finale of the night was Adrian Orange, or Thanksgiving as he is know, all the way from Portland in the North West corner of the USA. His first few hours in the UK had been plagued with transport problems but luckily he arrived on time (after going a little too north on the train - Inverness!) and played a brilliant set. The end involved the audience humming the chorus and Adrian sitting at the front of the stage, simply stunning.

I left the gig 2 cds the better and with the realisation that desite the rubbish and nonsence crammed into the charts, small corners of the world can spring musical talent of an extremely high calibre.

Al

23 Sept - Kasule @ The Mint

2004-09-22T23:32:00.000Z

I've been going to The Mint for years, since I was 15 if the truth be known. It was always a good solid indie pub until a few years ago when the powers that be decided that they should try and turn it into a trendy eatery, which in my opinion ripped its heart out and now it doesn't know what it is.

Tonight I was going to The Mint to hear some live music. I was aware that they had bands on a Thursday night as I had been talking to the promoter to get SmytherJones a slot and tonight was electronic noise makers Kasule.

...and make noise they did! 4 tunes all around 7-8 minutes long played at 500 amazing decabels deafening the crowd at the bar and shaking their pints! Their musical style is in the same vein as My Bloody Valentine or Mogwai and are well worth checking out. Get logging on to their website at www.kasule.co.uk where you can listen to some tunes and see what these reprobates actually look like.

Class.

Al

21 Sept - Charlotte Hatherley @ King Tuts

2004-09-22T01:56:00.000Z

For those who don't know, Charlotte Hatherley is the guitarist from Ash. Now I'm not the biggest Ash fan, they do have some excellent songs (eg Shining Light, Envy) but on the whole I could live without them. However, as one of my best mates is from Northern Ireland I agreed to go along to King Tuts to see what turned out to be her debut solo gig.

We got tickets from the local support band Wake The President, which made us feel duty bound to turn up early to check them out and what a treat they were! Good gentle tunes and a plesant surprise for all of us. I will definately try and see them at a later date.

On to the main reason we were there. I was hoping that Charlotte's solo material wouldn't be a carbon copy of Ash but it has to be said that much of it was very similar, she is an exceptional musician and it is refreshing to see a powerful front women who can really rock.

But on the whole the set was a unbalanced as there were so many styles on show and its clear that Charlotte hasn't quite decided what she wants to be or where she should be going. Lets hope she decides soon or the solo career might be shorty lived.

Al

7 Sept - Nationwide Mercury Prize

2004-09-09T01:04:00.000Z

Bit of a strange competition this. 12 albums chosen as the best of the year, all most deserving and one wins the prize as the best as chosen by a panel of "indursty experts". Even stranger, I agree with their choice this year.

And the winners........Well done to the boys in Franz Ferdinand, who have had am amzaing year and deserve all the plaudits and cash they are currently receiving, including the £20,000 winners booty . Take it all while its still there guys, it won't last forever!

My top 3 from the list would be...

Franz Ferdinad - Franz Ferdinand
Belle & Sebastian - Dear catastrophy Waitress
The Zutons - Who Killed The Zutons

All the goss before the announcment was that The Streets would win but that would have been a travesty and I more than agree with the judges choice. Maybe I should be a judge? Ok maybe not.

3 Sept - Morrissey @ Perth City Halls

2004-09-09T00:58:00.000Z

3rd Mozza gig of the week - if only every week was like this. Another intimate venue in another obscure Scottish town and another amazing gig.

Not much I can add to this, went with my mate Stuart and he drove so I was able to have a few pints. After last nights behaviour, I stayed back and watched from afar.

The surprise tonight, and there always is when you see Morrissey, was Shakespears Sister. What a treat!

Al

2 Sept - Morrissey @ Paisley Town Hall

2004-09-09T00:50:00.000Z

Yes its not a mistake. I'm not taking the piss. The legend that is Steven Patrick Morrissey did play Paisleys Town Hall on the 2nd September 2004.

This was a bizarre and surreal night. I've seen Morrissey in big venues, 8 to 10 thousand seater venues and before this the smallest being probably the Barrowlands (capacity 2000ish) but this was intimate with a capital I. 700 fans packed the Town Hall and it was one of the best gigs I have ever been to. I hate nasty big venues and this illustrated why, the initimacy was unbelievable. Everyone in that small room felt that Morrissey was singing to them and that no one else mattered.

We were in early to get to the front and with one hand on the barrier, dead centre it couldn't have been much better, although just out of reach which was probably for the best. There was almost a riot when he threw his sweat ridden shirt into the crowd and for a second I did have my heand on it but remembered that that sort of behaviour is not fitting for a 31 year old.

All my favourites were played - There Is A Light That Never Goes Out, Everyday Is Like Sunday, Now My Heart is Full, Let Me Kiss You and Morrissey chatted in between all the songs even taking some time out to slag Billy Sloan who was perched on the balcony no doubt with his poison pen in hand.

We breifly followed Mozzas car from the venue but after following them through two red lights we decided that stalking wasn't for us and we retired to a garage for a drink before we collapsed from dehydration. Not ideal with another intimate Morrissey gig to attend tomorrow!

Sweet dreams.

Al

29 August - Leeds Festival

2004-09-09T00:35:00.000Z

I love the summer festivals. Hats, beer, toilet breaks from the bus from Coatbridge to Perth and usually magic weather. But this year we changed our plans from the usual T in the Park weekender. Instead we decided to have the weekend at my mate Duncans in Halifax and attend the Leeds Festival on the Sunday. A superb line up and an excdellent opportunity to spend some time with my mate Duncan, who we rarely get to see these days! Two birds, one stone.

Firstly, en route to the festival site, the sun shone, we listened to quality tunes in the car and everything was going to plan. We parked the car and decided not to takle our waterproofs as the weather forecast suggested fine weather, however as soon as we got in the gates after a miles walk from the car park the heavens opened and the three of us got drenched. Not very plesant when you've got 9 hours to get through. God bless Oranage Mobiles and their free plastic mats, which we used as makeshift ponchos.

The festival site itself is odd. The whole event is run round the main stage and there is less emphasis on the other stages. This is different from T in the P as they have 2 outdoor stages, 1 massive tent, 3 smaller ones and a massive dance ten. Not at Leeds though, 1 oustdoor stage and 2 small tents that were impossible to get into due to the weather, which meant we had to listen to Bloc Party from outside!

OK, onto the band, thats what its all about I suppose!

RazorLight - I've seen Razorlight on several occassions but now they are receiving hype from the music press they seem top be getting a bit cocky for my liking. Strange set and very disappointing for me.
Bloc Party - Sounded magic from outside in the rain! "Little Thoughts" is a superb track, go download it now.
The Roots - Fucking shite.
Franz Ferdinand - Another band I have seen before and they were excellent. The hits (Darts of Pleasure, Take Me Out and Matinee) were well recived and its hard to believe that they have only been signed for one year, they are a superb band and very modest, which is to their credit.
The Libertines - Another reason why Leeds was a must, their new album is amazing and in my top 5 albums of the year. I was dubious as Pete Docherty has been kicked out of the band untill he gets over his heroin addiction and they would rely on Carl who isn't the regular singer. Another great set and to be honest Pete wasn't missed. Their energy was high and the new stuff sounded great. Another festival highlight.
Morrissey - OK, this is the real reason we were at Leeds. I love Morrissey. Superb from start to finish - from How Soon is Now to There is a Light That Never Goes Out, I couldn't fault him. Although commenting that the city of Leeds is "beautiful" was hard to swallow!

For anyone that knows the Leeds line up, the actual head liners are missing from that list - The White Stripes. After Mozza, the rain started again and I could face getting soaked again so we decided to head home. A final treat was getting to the car and hearing The White Stripes come onstage, outstanding.

A brilliant weekend but I think next year it will be back to Ballerno.

20 August - SmytherJones @ Furys

2004-09-08T23:04:00.000Z

Tonight we were booked to play in Glasgow student indie club Fury Murrys - its behin the St Enochs Centre if you fancy visiting. It one of those places where the DJ will either be on superb form or it sounds as if he has picked up the record bag he usually takes to weddings! I've had a fair few good nights though so give it a go.

There are 4 bands in total; SmytherJones, Beggar's Lake, After Christmas and The Aquitted. We didn't know any of the bands so being on first we could get business out of the way and enjoy the other bands.

I'll not bitch about anyone but the sound check could have been better and as such the sound was disappointing and a far cry from the last gig at Barfly. The boys did well and the crowd were very complimentary.

Beggar's Lake are also from Coatbridge and had a pleasing enough sound, to be honest I had started drinking as soon as we had finished and was busy talking to people that I missed most of their set (sorry guys) and the entire set of After Christmas. The last band on were The Aquitted, but I'm sorry to say it guys but you did yourselves no favours by turning up almost an hour late for the sound check and then being prescious about your equipment. Very poor. It appears that these guys seem to think they are better than they really are.

It was a good night and we are booked to play there again on 21 October but lets hope the sound check can be a bit better and we can really show what we can do.

Al

BeerJacket gigs @ 13th Note Cafe and The Universal

2004-08-11T12:48:00.000Z

Two gigs by BeerJacket

6 July - Due to bad planning and holiday, I forgot to add a short note concerning the 2nd official BeerJacket show! BeerJacket is the cover name of the new project by Peter Kelly (see previous review). This time the set was an acoustic night at the 13th Note Cafe in Glasgow. Another strong set and this time a cover of U2s "With or Without You" which went down a storm with the crowd, although personally I can do without U2 but this version is completely differnt than Bono et al.

10 August - Tonight saw the 3rd BeerJacket show, this time a free gig in The Universal, which is a small pub just off Sauchiehall Street in Glasgow. An intimate gig and the first for BerrJacket in a pub rather than concentional gig setting. This gave Peter more to think about, more intimacy, poorer sound, intimacy with the audience, a heckler and more importantly a pub atmosphere where punters are there first and foremost to drink and not listen to someone sing songs they haven't heard on radio 1!

After some sound problems the gig started very strongly and the crowd seemed to warm to the songs, this was untill one chap decided it would be funny to shout a few unwelcome comments, while sitting with his back turned to the stage - very daring. Well this seemed to throw Peter somewhat and rather than ignore the moron he tried to get the cown to repeat his idiotic comments which only caused more embarasment. However, the comments were soon forgotten with the next song being belted out more vigarously than before and it was game, set and match BeerJacket in straight sets.

Excellent.

Al

July 13 - SmytherJones @ Barfly

2004-07-16T00:20:00.000Z

Barfly again and we were delighted that, due to The Blimp pulling out at the last minute, we had been promoted to the main stage downstairs. Other bands onstage were Groucho and The Came Music. I didn't see Groucho as I was standing outside selling tickets for the gig but Then Came Music were superb and I bought one of their eps for £2!

Everyone in the band, including me, were up for this gig especially due to the earlier promotion and it seemed to pay off with the best SmytherJones set I have certainly seen. Everyone seemed to enjoy it and the band are starting to play as more of a unit, which bodes extremely well for the future.

Special shout out to Rob and Sal from Devil Promotions who set up the evenings entertainment, nice guys and hopefully we'll be able to work with them in the future.

Al

T in the Park - TV Review

2004-07-15T23:53:00.000Z

For the first time in 11 years, the coverage of this superb festival was live and not just a couple of hour long compliations of commercial and headlining bands. From 7pm to 11pm on both days, BBC3 broadcast live from Balado with live music, interview and features on loads of bands. Top stuff. The presenters have come in for some perhaps unnecessary criticism but on the whole I was happy to be watching descent music, especially as this is the first time in 4 years I haven't been there!

I'll quickly scim over Saturday for two reasons, 1. the line up was pish and 2. Sport Relief was on and I lost out 2-1 and only caught the last hour of the coverage! Firstly, The Darkness are no headliners. How can you headline a festival with only 1 album? Oh dear. Also, wioth the likes of The Black Eyed Peasand Pink on the bill it resembled more like Live and Loud than T in the P!

Anyway, it wasn't all bad, Ash looked excellent and The Cahrl;atans have a good few songs but apart from that I am struggling to be in any way positive.

Sunday started well as it was my birthday and after a day out with the wife and wean, I sat down with a fridge full of beer to watch every second of the T coverage and I was extremely excited for a couple of reasons. Number 1 - The Pixies. I saw them in 1991 at the SECC when the stage collapsed but the two full songs they managed to play were superb and 13 years on they didn't disappoint. Snow Patrol, Badly Drawn Boy, Franz Ferdinand and The Strokes were also superb.

Not the worst coverage I have ever seen but it would have been nice to see some more from the T Break and X Tents but I suppose I'll just have to buy a ticket for next year if I want it all my own way.

Al

July 10th - Strawberry Fields?

2004-07-15T23:48:00.000Z

SmytherJones were supposed to be playing Strawberry Fields in central Glasgow on 10th July, but no-one turned up and we drove in and stood outside for absolutely no reason. We late discovered that the venue has gone into liquidation and had been closed all week. Why oh why do promoters treat bands with such contempt when if it wasn't for us they'd be flipping burgers in MacDonalds?

Answers on a postcard.

Al

Bob Dylan Review - The Sunday Mail

2004-07-05T20:32:00.000Z

It has come to my attention that Billy Sloan took it upon himself to slag off the legendary Bob Dylans' gig at the Barrowland in his Sunday rag. Why? Did he not agree to get his picture with you Billy? Is he not popular enough for you Billy? Have you not seen him hyped up by the NME this week Billy?

What a cock.

Yours

Al

T in the Park

2004-07-04T16:13:00.000Z

Unfortunately for those who have bought tickets for T in the Park, David Bowie has pulled out of the festival due to a shoulder injury, and what have DF Concerts done about it? What gem have they pulled out of the hat to satisfy those who have already bought tickets?

Well, when I first heard, I assumed that they would break the band to get a massive act, my initial bet was The Cure who are playing the Move Festival in Manchester the day before T opens, but others had mentioned Oasis, promote Muse who recently closed Glastonbury and some even thought McCartney. However, none of these came to fruition, instead DF have decided in their infinate wisdom that The Darkness have the right stuff to fill Bowies shoes.

What is all that about? The Darkness are a joke, a pantomime act that shouldn't be anywhere near the top of the bill but lets face it, DF have saved a packed with Bowie pulling out and since the festival has sold out why should they give a shit about the paying fans? Promote The Darkness and Starsailor and count the money while the punter is left feeling short changed. Poor, poor effort.

Yours

Disgusted from Coatbridge

July 2 - E11even @ Furys

2004-07-04T16:02:00.000Z

I've been to the nightclub in Furys loads of times and SmytherJones are booked to play Furys in August but I had never actually been to a gig there so I was keen to attend a gig there so Friday was ideal.

I have no idea who the band were who were on when we arrived but they were utter mince and I am glad I can't remember! The next band were called Lab 5 and looked extremely cool but again they were rank and were painful to listen to.

It hadn't been a good night when E11even came onstage and I was a bit scared that I would hate them but since hearing their first demo they have improved immensly and although Stevens vocal is not to my taste his singing has improved dramatically. Gareth, who is the driving force behind E11even, is superb, both on guitar and vocally and looks every bit a leader of the pack.

Peace

Al

The Glastonbury Festival

2004-07-01T21:33:00.000Z

What a magic weekend! Although not at the festival site, I spent the majority of the weekend camped on the couch with crisps, pizza and plenty of cans of beer watching the coverage on BBC and listening on Radio 1.

There is something about Glastonbury that's different than other festival, the music almost takes second place to the other things that go on.

Musical highlights for me were......Paul McCartney, Franz Ferdinand, Snow Patrol, Muse and Morrissey.

Special mention to Muse, 10 minutes after their set, which they described as the best of their career, the drummers father died at the side of the stage. A happy day quickly turned into a very sad one.

Rest in Peace...

Al

June 24 - Bob Dylan @ The Barrowlands

2004-06-27T12:26:00.000Z

Don't Think Twice, It's All Right
Like A Rolling Stone
All along The Watchtower

Those three songs make up one of the finest encores I have ever witnessed. Even at 63 Bob Dylan can put on a great show and it was a rare treat that someone of his legendary status would play the 1700 capacity Barrowlands.

There was no support and at 7.45 Bob came onstage with his band and stayed on for 2 hours culminating in the above encoure, which was superb.

4th song in and 1700 sang the along with "Just Like A Women" leading Bob to stop singing and it was obvious that him and his band were overwhelmed by the response their fans were giving them.

At the end of the show Bob spoke for the first time and said that Glasgow had the greatest fans in the world and after the reception he was given I think he might just be right.

What a superb night.

Peace.

Al

Badly Drawn Boy - One Plus One Is One

2004-06-22T23:56:00.000Z

OK, I'm going to hold my hands up here and say two things;

1. I love Badly Drawn Boy,
2. I downloaded this album illegally 2 months ago. (although I would point out legally purchased today, I just couldn't wait!)

I've been to Badly Drawn Boys Manchester home to see Damon Gough play his own brand of music on three occasions (including the legendary Comedy Store gig, which was one of the highlights of my current gigging career) and he is definitely in my top ten favorite musical acts of all time. Quite an endorsement and in my opinion well worth it.

Yes I downloaded the album but now is not the time to defend my downloading action, although in my defence it is the first time I have gone out of my way to find and download a full album. I admit that I am no stranger to downloading one or two tracks but usually this means I will buy a full album based on the songs heard online or simply delete them as utter tripe!

BDBs first album is something of a masterpiece. That's not opinion just fact. The Hour of Bewilderbeast is up there as one of the finest debut releases ever. It won Damon the Mercurt Music prize and catapulted Badly Drawn Boy from obscurity to stardom and no doubt an accompanying hefty fortune.

Since then we have had two more albums, the soundtrack to About A Boy and the difficult second album Have You fed The Fish. Both of which I do love although HYFTF does contain the current low points in BDBs short career. Therefore, the 3rd album was eagerly childish anticipated!

The first time I heard this album was on my MP3 player on the bus to work and I didn't want the journey to end. The stand outs for me are "Summertime in Wintertime", with its superb flute action worthy of Ian Anderson and a superbly catchy chorus and "Takes The Glory", which seems like the end of the album but then we are treated to an encore in "Holy Grail".

This album is BDB going back to basics and doing what he does best, writing great songs and excellent music. There isn't a bad song on the album and I'm sure the misdemeanors of the last album will soon be forgotten and forgiven.

The wife's favorite is Year of The Rat which is also the first single to be lifted from the cd and no doubt a top ten hit. Its the least Damon deserves.

Long live Badly Drawn Boy.

Peace.

Al

June 22 - Peter Kelly @ Bar Brel Ashton Lane

2004-06-22T23:27:00.000Z

I always wanted to go to Glasgow Uni. Endless days in Kelvingrove Park, Byres Road and Ashton Lane. In my head the sun always shines on the west end but instead fate dealt me dull days in the Bruce Arms in Paisley High Street.

Tonight was a midweek treat, an acoustic gig with one of my old friends Peter Kelly. Peter has been the long suffering front man of indie 4 piece Pupkin (previously Drag Doll and Widescreen) but of late has been writing and recording some country tinged pop in his bedroom and finally it was being previewed to an expectant audience while supporting Roddy Hart.

It has long been a frustration of mine that Peter hasn't made it as far as I think he should have, as someone of his undoubted talents deserves fame and fortune. Hopefully this will be the way forward for him.

Pupkin are still about but for various reason are on the backburner for a while and it is my hope that the solo stuff means that it stays there not for good but just long enough for Peter to make his own impact.

We met Peter prior to the gig and it soon became apparent that the lad was a bag of nerves, even with his gigging experience this time there was no-one to hide behind and no one else could take the blame. Bless!

All the songs being played were on their maiden voyage and soon enough it was plain sailing and it seemed that he'd been playing them for years. The 8 songs or so went down well with the crowd and I was moved enough to buy a cd and after 2 listens since coming home it is a cd that will be played regularly when relaxation is the name of the game.

As my mate Carter always says, the west end is the best end and debuting this new sound in place of such quality seems extremely fitting.

Good work my friend.

Al

June 20 - Glasgobury @ Glasgow Barfly

2004-06-21T17:44:00.000Z

No its not a spelling mistake, this is Glasgow's very own alternative festival showcasing 40 unsigned bands over two stages from midday to midnight...and since its a week before Glastonbury you get the idea for the name!

At the last minute SmytherJones got the chance to play although we were give opening spot on the main stage. There were only a few in attendance, being at such an early time, but for the first time we were given a full sound check, which gave us a chance to hear some of our songs through a superb PA and we were all extremely pleased with what we heard. Due to the sound check running over by 10 minutes we were given less time than expected but we got 4 songs out and they sounded great.

We stayed around for a couple of hours but unfortunately didn't see any other bands as we hung around the bar and had a laugh instead.

cheers

Al

June 15 - Kain @ King Tuts

2004-06-17T19:44:00.000Z

Met a few mates last night in King Tuts for the NEMIS showcase and what a good night!

NEMIS (or New Music In Scotland) is a network for people in the music industry in Scotland. Artists, promoters, managers, venues, studios, and other musical professionals are brought together to take the industry in Scotland forward. Check out their website at www.nemis.org.

There were 4 bands on the bill but due to bad planning and the pints going down well, we sat in the bar too long and missed the first three! I was a bit disappointed as I wanted to see The Owsley Sunshine who have been creating a buzz in the Glasgow indie scene but the main reason we were there was to see Kain.

I hadn't heard alot of Kain, apart from a few session tracks on the internet but what a performance. They have a great sound and an extremely charismatic frontman and I'm positive will go a long way. Can't wait for the cd releases!

Peace

Al

Travis

2004-06-12T21:08:00.000Z

I saw a program on satellite music channel "The Amp" tonight about Travis and I had forgotten how good they are. Although they became a bit "commercial" for me, the first two albums are superb and in particular The Man Who which is a masterpiece.

Their videos are also superb and well worthy of a mention. Driftwood is one of my favorites - interesting, well shot and simple.

The good thing about them is they are real, no attempt to be cool or follow a trend and they don't court media attention to sell a few more cds. Now they are in their political stage but the sounds are still superb.

Al

Bob Dylan - ya beauty!

2004-06-10T23:08:00.000Z

My tickets came today for Bob Dylan at the Barrowlands! I can't wait, I have never been willing to pay £40 for a ticket for a gig before but when the tickets hit the doorstep today I knew every penny had been well spent.

2000 people will witness a living legend in an intimate venue. I honestly can't wait and the support comes from....no one, why of why would there be the need for one?

Yours with childish excitment!

Al

Glasgow - Indie Capital of the UK?

2004-06-10T22:57:00.000Z

I've come to the conclusion that Glasgow is a fucking magic place to live if your a music fan. A few reason for this conclusion are...

1. The indie scene is thriving with loads of new bands coming through (eg Kain, Sluts of Trust).
2. Superb venues - King Tuts, Barfly, Stereo, 13th Note, Barrowlands.
3. Excellent crowds, passionate, loud, appreciative and many.
4. Look at the gig listings in the NME. The majority will have a date in Glasgow. All the greats come here and a favourite with loads of top bands.
5. Top clubs that play more than Kylie and Busted - The Garage, Barfly, Fury Murays for starters!

Top place but I think we forget it.

Al

June 8 - SmytherJones @ Rockers

2004-06-10T22:13:00.000Z

As I said in my last blog, I have recently began managing a new young indie band, SmytherJones. I've been a critic of music for 16 years since I started becoming passionate about music but now the shoe is on the other foot and its my band that will be under the spotlight!

This was my first official outing with the band at a new pub that is concentrating on showcasing bands. If you know Glasgow its beside the old entrance of The Arches and has been opening and closing regularly under many guises and after my first visit, I can't see it lasting much longer!

Poor sound, poor bands, and a crazy man running the place that knows hee haw about sound, made for an interesting night that none of us will forget!

I haven't a clue who the other two bands were. The first were a young Nu Metal band with what can only be described as the worst drummer I have ever witnessed. I can't add much more to that especially as I really can't think of anything laudable to say.

We were to be on last but at the last minute we were told the order had been changed as the 3rd band had sold more tickets than us. We were pissed off but accepted it but went on hardly ready and it has to be said did a very poor set. Towards the end the bass amp started playing up and sent our bass player Boycie into a rage on more than one occasion.

At the end of the gig our front man John decided to tell the crowd exactly what he thought of the venue and the sound man took acception and decided that he would go for him! The entire situation was caused by this idiots inefficient sound control (or lack of it) but he decided to threaten the band and show what a complete arse he is. I got John out before we got a doing and we decided that we would not return!

Obviously we were unable to hang around for the last band but based on their sound check they were a joke and had obviously be trying too hard for too long and were never going to make any kind of music that would be commercial or enjoyed by anyone with any knowledge or taste. It was funny to watch their arrogance disapear when they went onstage as they are obviously not too musically talented!

The moral of the story? Don't let the guys in the band organise another gig if this is the best they can do.

Peace.

Al

SmytherJones

2004-06-05T13:55:00.000Z

I was recently asked to manage a local band called SmytherJones and have agreed to help get them gigs, market them and generally help them along. I am delighted to help as I think John Docherty has excellent potential and if shown the light could do well.

A first demo has been done, which they won't mind me saying needs some work to it, but you can have a listen by following the link below and if I do my job properly gigs will follow real soon.

www.overplay.co.uk/smytherjones

cheers

Al

June 3 - Komikino @ King Tuts

2004-06-05T13:33:00.000Z

Another day another gig - this time I was dragged to King Tuts Wah Wah Hut to see one of the bands supporting Bloc Party and boy was I glad.

Komikino aren't signed yet but it won't be long. Great tunes, excellent musicians and a charismatic lead singer. I hadn't heard the before but a couple of friends had and had become hooked, not least due to their infatuations with the singer and drummer! Girls will be girls! Anyway, look out for this band as they are excellent and there is interest from various record companies so they should be snapped up and releaseing soon enough.

Check out their website at

www.komikino.da.ru

Bloc Party are an up and coming Art School band and are being mooted by critics as being on the brink of massive succes. After seeing them it would appear that the band are much cooler than their music but good luck to them. Although, thanks to my friend Maria the gig nearly didn't take place as she tripped the singer up almost knocking him into next week!

cheers

Al

June 2 - Jad Fair @ Stereo

2004-06-05T13:22:00.000Z

Jad Fair is probably best known in the UK indie scene as the dude who sang on the last Teenage Fanclub album, apart from that little is probably known. The album with Teenage Fanclub is well worth checking out, different from other TFC stuff mainly by Jads unique lyrical style but still an excellent addition to your cd collection.

Based on this excellent cd and a visit to Jads website (www.jadfair.com) we decided to check him out playing at Stereo in Glasgow.

£5 a ticket and two support bands - you really can't argue with that and all 3 acts were very different. The audience also contained some Scottish Indie legends well worthy of a mention - Stephen Pastle, Isobel Campbell, Bill Wells and Gerard Love and Norman Blake from Teenage Fanclub. Although seriously tempted, I resisted talking to them and making a fool of myself, which I have been known to do in the past!

Anyway, firstly apologies to thye first band as I can't honestly remember the name (sorry guys) but they consisted of two guys and some rather nice computer generated electronica. Nice.

Next up was cabaret time with Alleschwindle. A band from the east, which turned out to me closer to Edinburgh than the singers Russian accent suggested! Some funny tunes and theatrics and they moved me enough to spend a fiver on one of their cd.

Finally at 11pm Jad made his entrance, with only a drummer and one other musician who played guitar, bass and best of all human beatbox. Jad is an artist so I'm not going to slag off any of his performance but suffice to say the conventional indie tunes went down a treat but the scretching, moaning poems were a bit hard to get into!

All in all a good night and it was nice to catch up with my mate Stuart who has just moved back to Glasgow from Newcastle. Welcome home!

Al