kasbah at coventry is bringing yet another great band to the area with the quireboys appearing this friday
http://www.kasbahnightclub.com/the-quireboys
this is one of the few great rock n roll bands that the uk produced when the industry was dominated by U.S bands
So,if its been a while since youve donned a bandana then get down there
Not sure they can still guarantee a sexy party but sure there will be a great show!!
This is a blog aimed at trying to develop a site for people who want Leamington to have a heart of art, music and culture. Perhaps a little off beat and certainly away from the sterile Corporate world that surrounds us It is a place which will be reliant on you letting us know the cool places to be and the inspired people in the town.
Monday 28 November 2011
Sunday 21 August 2011
Ash at the Kasbah, Coventry
When I first heard that Ash were playing at the Kasbah my first thought was - I really used to like them and they had some great songs but I haven't listened to them in years. I think like lots of people after free all angels and the loss of Charlotte Hatherley i just seemed to lose touch with what they were doing. In fact all I could remember is that they had some big idea that albums as a physical format was dying and they were only going to release CD singles - then somewhat ironically they then ended up issuing all the singles as one CD (isn't that an album?!?)
It was therefore with a sense of intrigue that I attended the gig at the Kasbah where I really had no idea what to expect.
It has to be said they really are an excellent band and have done some really great songs (suppose they were very much "a singles band" all along). The most noticeable thing for me is how the whole group really do focus on guitarist and singer Tim Wheeler who is a fantastic guitarist and front man. I am always wary when you see a stage set up with only one microphone as for me choruses and harmonies really make a gig. Somehow, however, Tim manages to make one hell of a sound and all those great Ash choruses sounded as good live as they do on CD. It was also good to see Tim to continue to use the classic Flying V guitar.
The crowd also seemed up for the gig and especially the hits -always good to see a mid week mosh pit like there was for Kung Fu (although wish people could resist the fake kung fu fighting!). The only slow bit of the gig was a somewhat misplaced instrumental song which I guess the hardcore fans might have appreciated but the pop punk atmosphere was soon re established with Shining Light
In the end it was an excellent gig and I really shouldn't have doubted that would be the case, given the bands years of playing live and the brilliant collection of songs they have in their catalogue. I know they are touring again later in the year so if you get the chance make sure you go and see them
It was therefore with a sense of intrigue that I attended the gig at the Kasbah where I really had no idea what to expect.
It has to be said they really are an excellent band and have done some really great songs (suppose they were very much "a singles band" all along). The most noticeable thing for me is how the whole group really do focus on guitarist and singer Tim Wheeler who is a fantastic guitarist and front man. I am always wary when you see a stage set up with only one microphone as for me choruses and harmonies really make a gig. Somehow, however, Tim manages to make one hell of a sound and all those great Ash choruses sounded as good live as they do on CD. It was also good to see Tim to continue to use the classic Flying V guitar.
The crowd also seemed up for the gig and especially the hits -always good to see a mid week mosh pit like there was for Kung Fu (although wish people could resist the fake kung fu fighting!). The only slow bit of the gig was a somewhat misplaced instrumental song which I guess the hardcore fans might have appreciated but the pop punk atmosphere was soon re established with Shining Light
In the end it was an excellent gig and I really shouldn't have doubted that would be the case, given the bands years of playing live and the brilliant collection of songs they have in their catalogue. I know they are touring again later in the year so if you get the chance make sure you go and see them
Cool places - Coventry Kasbah
OK I know some people in Leamington regard going to Coventry as the equivalent of visiting the dark side. However it is a shame to totally discount what is the biggest local town and therefore can have a lot to offer.
This is certainly true of the Kasbah which has been around for years (previously known as the Colosseum).
If you haven't visited this venue for some time then you really are missing out - this is in terms of both as a venue and some of the bands they have had on (Ash, Mona, Hard fi, and indeed now big bands such as Arctic Monkey, la Roux and Baby Shambles).
The venue is really well set out with a couple of music rooms which can be used depending on the band/audience size. I am sure we have all stood in a venue which is only partly fall and then see the atmosphere suffer no matter how good the artist is.
There is also a fantastic outdoor, but undercover, bar which always has a very lively atmosphere and I am sure would be perfect on a summer evening (do we ever have those!)
I've yet to check out one of their club nights but once again the layout plays to its advantage where they can host different music types in each part of the club so should be something for everyone.
Full details are on the website (http://www.kasbahnightclub.com) where you will see there are already a wide range of acts booked - Cage The Elephant, Miles Davis, Jon Fratelli, Ms Dynamite, Toploader, Alkaline Trio and indeed Shaun William Ryder (not sure where the William has suddenly come from!)
Anyhow make sure you pay the club a visit because one thing that is clear is that the management are really trying to support music in the local area and this includes local bands, new bands and some well established bands so they really deserve our support.
This is certainly true of the Kasbah which has been around for years (previously known as the Colosseum).
If you haven't visited this venue for some time then you really are missing out - this is in terms of both as a venue and some of the bands they have had on (Ash, Mona, Hard fi, and indeed now big bands such as Arctic Monkey, la Roux and Baby Shambles).
The venue is really well set out with a couple of music rooms which can be used depending on the band/audience size. I am sure we have all stood in a venue which is only partly fall and then see the atmosphere suffer no matter how good the artist is.
There is also a fantastic outdoor, but undercover, bar which always has a very lively atmosphere and I am sure would be perfect on a summer evening (do we ever have those!)
I've yet to check out one of their club nights but once again the layout plays to its advantage where they can host different music types in each part of the club so should be something for everyone.
Full details are on the website (http://www.kasbahnightclub.com) where you will see there are already a wide range of acts booked - Cage The Elephant, Miles Davis, Jon Fratelli, Ms Dynamite, Toploader, Alkaline Trio and indeed Shaun William Ryder (not sure where the William has suddenly come from!)
Anyhow make sure you pay the club a visit because one thing that is clear is that the management are really trying to support music in the local area and this includes local bands, new bands and some well established bands so they really deserve our support.
Sunday 10 July 2011
Glastonbury Friday
OK before the band talk I suppose I must mention the mud. By the Friday it was pretty awful and it did make getting across the site a bit difficulty. To be honest though I think it is now part of what makes Glastonbury. Last year when the weather was very hot and dry the festival just didn't have the same atmosphere (despite it being the 40th anniversary). There's something about the mud which gives the whole festival more of a mad vibe and seems to make people even more keen to ensure they enjoy themselves.
OK on to some of the bands - I'll try to keep things brief and succinct so I cover all the ones I saw.
Festival proper began for me with Brother - must admit I didn't have great hopes for this lot but given they have been getting a fair amount of press thought I'd check them out. My opinion - they were "alright". They seem to have some good tunes and thankfully didn't come across as the totally arrogant band the press might suggest. The tunes themselves were of the pretty standard indie fair. One of those bands where the song starts, sounds pretty good and then just fades out until they start the new one (which doesn't sound much different to the last)
By contrast Mona were excellent. Another band which got a lot of press earlier in the year and were on many lists of ones to watch in 2011. Sadly their album got a very luke warm reception and they now seem to have missed the boat. Now I must admit I really love the album its kinda like a mellower Gaslight Anthem with the focus more on U2 epic songs instead of punk. Live, however, they take things to a different level and play with more a a passion and a fury. The lead singer tends to dominate the show but he displays the right balance of cockiness that a front man needs. Overall a top band and live certainly live up to the hype.
The same cant be said about The Vaccines -another band riding on the crest of press wave. I also loved their singles and the album when it first came out but surprisingly it wasn't one I revisited much. I was looking forward to seeing them live but they were really disappointing. Whilst Mona took the album and made it comes alive, The Vaccines made it sound really downbeat. The vocalist has a lot to do with this where he has somewhat of a monotone voice but in truth the whole set was quite dull and very disappointing.
The Wombats -are probably the opposite to the Vaccines - slated by the press, treated like a comedy band and not taken at all seriously. But importantly I think they recognise their own limitations and the fact is they have some great sing a long songs which were made for festival crowds. Importantly they act like they are enjoying playing and the result of that is a fun set.
I bailed out of the wombats a bit early to catch The Jim Jones Review playing in a small tent. Now this is a true Rock n roll band. They play a classic punk rock N roll/rockabilly set. Its very hard not to get caught up in the sheer exuberance of the songs and the crowd in the relatively small tent certainly did. Jim Jones gives every song his all and its a wonder he manages to perform night after night. Top band
After this we went to see who the special guests were at the Park stage (having heard rumours it was Pulp). Sadly it was Radiohead instead. I am not a fan of this band and having spent some time battling to even see them on stage gave up (on basis that if they were in my back garden I would have to think twice about drawing back the curtains to see them). Instead we retreated to one of the gypsy caravan/ bus stop things to seek shelter from the rain. Radiohead playing songs no one seemed to know and rain makes for a depressing time -BUT this is Glastonbury - by some very strange coincidence we ended up sitting next to two people from Leamington (what a small and weird world) and ended up having fun chatting and watching various drunken people make fools of themselves.
The headlines were of course U2. Again not a band I am a fan of but that is mainly due to Bono being such a dick! But I thought given they have so many great songs and this was my one chance to see them (I wouldn't pay to see just them) I gave them a go. Given their back catalogue, reputation for being a great live band and the fact they were headlining Glastonbury after pulling out last year surely the set would be fantastic?!?! - sadly it was nothing like that, disappointingly they played a very lacklustre set which just didn't excite at all and made you wonder how they ever became anything more than an Irish pub band - oh well at least one of the "must see" bands to take off the list.
Never mind it had still been a good day and there was still rum to drink before stumbling back to bed to try and sleep in preparation for the next day.
OK on to some of the bands - I'll try to keep things brief and succinct so I cover all the ones I saw.
Festival proper began for me with Brother - must admit I didn't have great hopes for this lot but given they have been getting a fair amount of press thought I'd check them out. My opinion - they were "alright". They seem to have some good tunes and thankfully didn't come across as the totally arrogant band the press might suggest. The tunes themselves were of the pretty standard indie fair. One of those bands where the song starts, sounds pretty good and then just fades out until they start the new one (which doesn't sound much different to the last)
By contrast Mona were excellent. Another band which got a lot of press earlier in the year and were on many lists of ones to watch in 2011. Sadly their album got a very luke warm reception and they now seem to have missed the boat. Now I must admit I really love the album its kinda like a mellower Gaslight Anthem with the focus more on U2 epic songs instead of punk. Live, however, they take things to a different level and play with more a a passion and a fury. The lead singer tends to dominate the show but he displays the right balance of cockiness that a front man needs. Overall a top band and live certainly live up to the hype.
The same cant be said about The Vaccines -another band riding on the crest of press wave. I also loved their singles and the album when it first came out but surprisingly it wasn't one I revisited much. I was looking forward to seeing them live but they were really disappointing. Whilst Mona took the album and made it comes alive, The Vaccines made it sound really downbeat. The vocalist has a lot to do with this where he has somewhat of a monotone voice but in truth the whole set was quite dull and very disappointing.
The Wombats -are probably the opposite to the Vaccines - slated by the press, treated like a comedy band and not taken at all seriously. But importantly I think they recognise their own limitations and the fact is they have some great sing a long songs which were made for festival crowds. Importantly they act like they are enjoying playing and the result of that is a fun set.
I bailed out of the wombats a bit early to catch The Jim Jones Review playing in a small tent. Now this is a true Rock n roll band. They play a classic punk rock N roll/rockabilly set. Its very hard not to get caught up in the sheer exuberance of the songs and the crowd in the relatively small tent certainly did. Jim Jones gives every song his all and its a wonder he manages to perform night after night. Top band
After this we went to see who the special guests were at the Park stage (having heard rumours it was Pulp). Sadly it was Radiohead instead. I am not a fan of this band and having spent some time battling to even see them on stage gave up (on basis that if they were in my back garden I would have to think twice about drawing back the curtains to see them). Instead we retreated to one of the gypsy caravan/ bus stop things to seek shelter from the rain. Radiohead playing songs no one seemed to know and rain makes for a depressing time -BUT this is Glastonbury - by some very strange coincidence we ended up sitting next to two people from Leamington (what a small and weird world) and ended up having fun chatting and watching various drunken people make fools of themselves.
The headlines were of course U2. Again not a band I am a fan of but that is mainly due to Bono being such a dick! But I thought given they have so many great songs and this was my one chance to see them (I wouldn't pay to see just them) I gave them a go. Given their back catalogue, reputation for being a great live band and the fact they were headlining Glastonbury after pulling out last year surely the set would be fantastic?!?! - sadly it was nothing like that, disappointingly they played a very lacklustre set which just didn't excite at all and made you wonder how they ever became anything more than an Irish pub band - oh well at least one of the "must see" bands to take off the list.
Never mind it had still been a good day and there was still rum to drink before stumbling back to bed to try and sleep in preparation for the next day.
Glastonbury 2011 -The builid up
OK Glastonbury is often called the best festival in the world and who am i to argue! I absolutely love it and this is in many ways "my" holiday for the year. Its when I get to go away forget work, a bit of "me" time (how American!) and leave the family to enjoy what is now virtually a week of beer and bands -whats not to like!
The build up actually begins days ahead with all the packing and checking etc but it officially starts on the Tuesday night when I drive down to my brothers to have one beer for bed and prepare for the 6 o'clock start. Next morning we venture on the road in the trusty (?!?) VW beetle listening to old tunes and praying for the moment we are there with the tent up and the first of many beers in hand.
The popularity of Glastonbury is amazing these days. Without wishing to sound too old I genuinely do remember when you could buy a ticket a couple of days before, turn up on the Thursday and still have loads of places to camp. Now even though we arrived on Wed morning we still struggled to find a place for two tents. Although to be fair we do always camp at one of the prime sites with a view to the Pyramid stage.
I wont go in to all the details of the next couple days or I'll be too tired to talk about the bands. Lets just say there was plenty of beer, wine, vodka and dodgy dancing in tents (special mention to the silent disco -which is a riot and if you haven't tried it you should!)
The build up actually begins days ahead with all the packing and checking etc but it officially starts on the Tuesday night when I drive down to my brothers to have one beer for bed and prepare for the 6 o'clock start. Next morning we venture on the road in the trusty (?!?) VW beetle listening to old tunes and praying for the moment we are there with the tent up and the first of many beers in hand.
The popularity of Glastonbury is amazing these days. Without wishing to sound too old I genuinely do remember when you could buy a ticket a couple of days before, turn up on the Thursday and still have loads of places to camp. Now even though we arrived on Wed morning we still struggled to find a place for two tents. Although to be fair we do always camp at one of the prime sites with a view to the Pyramid stage.
I wont go in to all the details of the next couple days or I'll be too tired to talk about the bands. Lets just say there was plenty of beer, wine, vodka and dodgy dancing in tents (special mention to the silent disco -which is a riot and if you haven't tried it you should!)
Tuesday 10 May 2011
The Sharks "Joy of Living 2008-10" CD review
This CD is effectively a release of all their previous EPs to date. The format is two new songs and then each of the EPs in reverse chronological order.
Okay lets get this out of the way first - in terms of influences, this band don't only where their hearts on their sleeve they also have a t-shirt and denim jacket with a back patch saying "The Clash" all over them. Now in my opinion there are far worst bands to be influenced by and if it can encourage a new generation of fans to enjoy this style of music I am all for it.
There are numerous "clashesque" straight forward rockers on this CD including "Three Houses", "Capital Youth" and "It threatens". Special mention must also go to one of the new songs "Joys of living" where like the Clash this builds in the sounds of ska (and why not given Leamingtons closeness to the home of Ska!)
However it is too easy and unfair to regard this band as just clones. The song quality alone takes them well above that. This is clearly demonstrated by the other new song "Sweet Harness" which really shows how the band has developed over the past couple of years. This is a great rock song with a huge melody and suggests they picked up a few tips when supporting the Gaslight Anthem. This knack for melody beneath the punk rock is what will make them big and is shown on other songs such as "Common ground" and "it all relates" (love the woo hoo backing vocals!)
There is also a good change of pace with the song " Yours to Fear" which is slower and has a real big drum sound to it. I can imagine loads of American labels hearing this and thinking we could give it a huge production and turn it to "a hit". This however will be missing the whole point of the band because what makes them so good is the rawness and the passion in the music
Quick mention of the lead singers voice which I really love and its style is demonstrated on the holler out opening to "Trains". Its a classic punk rock voice which initially leaves you questioning if its good or not. The fact is that it is full of passion and really gets you in to the songs.
Overall this is a fantastic CD and just leaves you desperately awaiting new material and the debut full CD. The best summary of where this band is going is I live in their home town but had to order the CD from the States - this band is going somewhere and fast!
Okay lets get this out of the way first - in terms of influences, this band don't only where their hearts on their sleeve they also have a t-shirt and denim jacket with a back patch saying "The Clash" all over them. Now in my opinion there are far worst bands to be influenced by and if it can encourage a new generation of fans to enjoy this style of music I am all for it.
There are numerous "clashesque" straight forward rockers on this CD including "Three Houses", "Capital Youth" and "It threatens". Special mention must also go to one of the new songs "Joys of living" where like the Clash this builds in the sounds of ska (and why not given Leamingtons closeness to the home of Ska!)
However it is too easy and unfair to regard this band as just clones. The song quality alone takes them well above that. This is clearly demonstrated by the other new song "Sweet Harness" which really shows how the band has developed over the past couple of years. This is a great rock song with a huge melody and suggests they picked up a few tips when supporting the Gaslight Anthem. This knack for melody beneath the punk rock is what will make them big and is shown on other songs such as "Common ground" and "it all relates" (love the woo hoo backing vocals!)
There is also a good change of pace with the song " Yours to Fear" which is slower and has a real big drum sound to it. I can imagine loads of American labels hearing this and thinking we could give it a huge production and turn it to "a hit". This however will be missing the whole point of the band because what makes them so good is the rawness and the passion in the music
Quick mention of the lead singers voice which I really love and its style is demonstrated on the holler out opening to "Trains". Its a classic punk rock voice which initially leaves you questioning if its good or not. The fact is that it is full of passion and really gets you in to the songs.
Overall this is a fantastic CD and just leaves you desperately awaiting new material and the debut full CD. The best summary of where this band is going is I live in their home town but had to order the CD from the States - this band is going somewhere and fast!
Drive By Truckers - Live at Assembly 4/5/11
This was a really good band for the Assembly to get and in my opinion is what the owners should be trying to focus on. The DBTs have been around for years, have a huge back catalogue and rightly so are picking up fans on the back of the recent revival in Southern rock (Kings of Leon) and folk (Fleet foxes)
Quick mention for the support act Josh T Pearson - now this guy is a real Southern American gent not likely the pretty boys in Kings of Leon!. His set was a strange one where it consisted of relatively low key country rock numbers mixed up with a comedy act based on "musician/drummer jokes" (best one is whats the last thing a stripper does with her asshole before she goes to work?? Drop him off at band practice!). Whilst the jokes were good the set was subdued and sadly this seemed to effect the rest of the night.
It has to be said that the DBTs performed what would be termed a solid set. It certainly had the makings of a great set but just didnt quite get going. Clearly a band of extremely talented musicians who have a good collection of songs. In particular the way they mix the vocals up between the two lead guitarist has the brilliant effect of almost feeling like you get two bands for one, They both have very different voices but with their own unique sound. Indeed the backing vocals by the entire band were excellent.
I wonder if perhaps the crowd had an impact on the band where they were very quiet, Now granted Leamington on a Wednesday night is admittedly not exactly the centre of rock n roll and indeed the vast majority of the crowd appeared to be middle aged men but even the band commented on how quiet they were.
Despite this the band and the gig did come alive towards the end of the set when they played some more of their 'rockier' songs and perhaps it was a pity the band didnt do this earlier.
Overall a good show but perhaps a chance missed??
Quick mention for the support act Josh T Pearson - now this guy is a real Southern American gent not likely the pretty boys in Kings of Leon!. His set was a strange one where it consisted of relatively low key country rock numbers mixed up with a comedy act based on "musician/drummer jokes" (best one is whats the last thing a stripper does with her asshole before she goes to work?? Drop him off at band practice!). Whilst the jokes were good the set was subdued and sadly this seemed to effect the rest of the night.
It has to be said that the DBTs performed what would be termed a solid set. It certainly had the makings of a great set but just didnt quite get going. Clearly a band of extremely talented musicians who have a good collection of songs. In particular the way they mix the vocals up between the two lead guitarist has the brilliant effect of almost feeling like you get two bands for one, They both have very different voices but with their own unique sound. Indeed the backing vocals by the entire band were excellent.
I wonder if perhaps the crowd had an impact on the band where they were very quiet, Now granted Leamington on a Wednesday night is admittedly not exactly the centre of rock n roll and indeed the vast majority of the crowd appeared to be middle aged men but even the band commented on how quiet they were.
Despite this the band and the gig did come alive towards the end of the set when they played some more of their 'rockier' songs and perhaps it was a pity the band didnt do this earlier.
Overall a good show but perhaps a chance missed??
Sharks Live at Moo bar and then Head records
There aren't many bands from Leamington full stop let alone one that is able to have a farewell UK show before jetting off to the States on a country wide tour supporting Social Distortion and Chuck Ragan so these two gigs were ones not to be missed.
The first was in the evening at Moo Bar which seemed an unusual venue but I'm sure they were grateful to actually have a queue building up from 7 on what is probably normally a quiet night. The two support bands were very different -one being a more mature singer songwriter type and the other being a metal/dance hybrid band -but must admit neither did much for me! (Although credit to the second bands look -very 80's Motley Crue and took me back to my days at rock city in Nottingham)
During the night the guys from The Sharks were hanging around speaking to friends/family and fans before walking through the intimate crowd to hit the stage and boy did they hit it. The whole show was excellent and this is clearly a band who love what they do. Their passion for their music was clear in every song. The band played a load of their songs from their recent ep compilation CD (review to follow). Credit must also go the crowd who were young (indeed sure most of them weren't alive when the bands clearest influence the clash were around) and very enthusiastic.
The night ended with a rousing cover of the Clash classic "I fought the law" and what must have been the first time there has ever been a mosh pit in Moo!!!
check out the link below to see one of the songs peformed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlg5EZ6auzM
The following Saturday they then did a small show in Head record store for Record store day. Once again they gained a sizable following and a few familiar faces were there from the Moo show. I have to say it was quite surreal to see the band cramped in to a small shop window!
This acoustic show was also very impressive and it demonstrated the simple fact that a really good song can always be stripped back to the basics and still sound really good. It was only a 4/5 show set but it was good to hear some slow down versions of the songs.
It appears that bright things are ahead of the band with them touring the States, making good connections with other bands and enjoying great press and publicity.
I have a strange feeling that in a few years there will be thousands of people claiming they were there when The Sharks played in a shop window!!
The first was in the evening at Moo Bar which seemed an unusual venue but I'm sure they were grateful to actually have a queue building up from 7 on what is probably normally a quiet night. The two support bands were very different -one being a more mature singer songwriter type and the other being a metal/dance hybrid band -but must admit neither did much for me! (Although credit to the second bands look -very 80's Motley Crue and took me back to my days at rock city in Nottingham)
During the night the guys from The Sharks were hanging around speaking to friends/family and fans before walking through the intimate crowd to hit the stage and boy did they hit it. The whole show was excellent and this is clearly a band who love what they do. Their passion for their music was clear in every song. The band played a load of their songs from their recent ep compilation CD (review to follow). Credit must also go the crowd who were young (indeed sure most of them weren't alive when the bands clearest influence the clash were around) and very enthusiastic.
The night ended with a rousing cover of the Clash classic "I fought the law" and what must have been the first time there has ever been a mosh pit in Moo!!!
check out the link below to see one of the songs peformed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlg5EZ6auzM
The following Saturday they then did a small show in Head record store for Record store day. Once again they gained a sizable following and a few familiar faces were there from the Moo show. I have to say it was quite surreal to see the band cramped in to a small shop window!
This acoustic show was also very impressive and it demonstrated the simple fact that a really good song can always be stripped back to the basics and still sound really good. It was only a 4/5 show set but it was good to hear some slow down versions of the songs.
It appears that bright things are ahead of the band with them touring the States, making good connections with other bands and enjoying great press and publicity.
I have a strange feeling that in a few years there will be thousands of people claiming they were there when The Sharks played in a shop window!!
Sunday 10 April 2011
Assembly Classics Club Night
If ever there was a "ronseal" name for a club night then this really is it.
As it says on the Assembly web page this Saturday night event plays "Anthems from the 90's, 00's to the present day"
Ive already commented on what a fantastic venue the Assembly is for seeing bands but I wasn't too sure how it would hold up to a club night -mainly due to the very large open main hall and indeed the size of the dance floor itself but I shouldn't have worried. It proved to be an excellent way to spend a late Saturday Night.
As for the music it really was classic song after classic song. It all started off with some fantastic stuff from the "Brit pop" era. Guess I am showing my age here but really there were some great songs written during this period. Most importantly they provided the perfect back drop to having a few more beers and to allow the atmosphere to build up in the venue. The music then moved more along in to the "Anthems" a bit more of the dance style of music. It is important to realise that the emphasis remained on great tunes which would have got anyone up on the dance floor, It was really impressive to look around the venue and see loads of people of different ages and styles just looking like they were having a great time.
I am conscious with pubs now being able to open to 2am at least and with nearly all of them free entry that the on the door price of £8 may look steep. However it is worth noting that the advance cost is only £5 and perhaps most importantly the prices of the drinks are very reasonable (Far lower than most club prices and indeed lower than most the bars in Leamington!!)
The best demonstration of how good this club night is, is the fact they I can honestly say I have never been to a night where such a high proportion of the people in attendance were actually on the dance floor and indeed looking like they were having fun! Overall this is a top night out and the best late night venue in Leamington
As it says on the Assembly web page this Saturday night event plays "Anthems from the 90's, 00's to the present day"
Ive already commented on what a fantastic venue the Assembly is for seeing bands but I wasn't too sure how it would hold up to a club night -mainly due to the very large open main hall and indeed the size of the dance floor itself but I shouldn't have worried. It proved to be an excellent way to spend a late Saturday Night.
As for the music it really was classic song after classic song. It all started off with some fantastic stuff from the "Brit pop" era. Guess I am showing my age here but really there were some great songs written during this period. Most importantly they provided the perfect back drop to having a few more beers and to allow the atmosphere to build up in the venue. The music then moved more along in to the "Anthems" a bit more of the dance style of music. It is important to realise that the emphasis remained on great tunes which would have got anyone up on the dance floor, It was really impressive to look around the venue and see loads of people of different ages and styles just looking like they were having a great time.
I am conscious with pubs now being able to open to 2am at least and with nearly all of them free entry that the on the door price of £8 may look steep. However it is worth noting that the advance cost is only £5 and perhaps most importantly the prices of the drinks are very reasonable (Far lower than most club prices and indeed lower than most the bars in Leamington!!)
The best demonstration of how good this club night is, is the fact they I can honestly say I have never been to a night where such a high proportion of the people in attendance were actually on the dance floor and indeed looking like they were having fun! Overall this is a top night out and the best late night venue in Leamington
Wednesday 30 March 2011
Forever Ink - Art Inspired by Ink
A bit ashamed of this as really should have posted a blog on this prior to the event to give it some publicity!! Oh well hopefully it will happen again and I can give you pre notice.
This was basically an event to allow local artist to show case their talents but was much more than a boring art exhibition, For a start all the art was tattoo inspired and the majority (all??) the artists were tattooists.
As to be expected, given these people earn a living making permanent pieces of art on bodies, the quality of the art was excellent. Lots of different styles which would appeal to people with different tastes.
In addition there was a load of other stuff including Burlesque performers, a Hula Hooper, live band, cake stall and jewellery stall and not forgetting free drink and sweets!!!
It was held at the Custard Factory in Birmingham and the place was absolutely rammed! Which is even more impressive given it was held on a Sunday night!!!!
More details on their face book page so take a look
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=183153635059424
Really great event which attracted a wide variety of people and I'm definitely looking forward to attending any future events
This was basically an event to allow local artist to show case their talents but was much more than a boring art exhibition, For a start all the art was tattoo inspired and the majority (all??) the artists were tattooists.
As to be expected, given these people earn a living making permanent pieces of art on bodies, the quality of the art was excellent. Lots of different styles which would appeal to people with different tastes.
In addition there was a load of other stuff including Burlesque performers, a Hula Hooper, live band, cake stall and jewellery stall and not forgetting free drink and sweets!!!
It was held at the Custard Factory in Birmingham and the place was absolutely rammed! Which is even more impressive given it was held on a Sunday night!!!!
More details on their face book page so take a look
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=183153635059424
Really great event which attracted a wide variety of people and I'm definitely looking forward to attending any future events
Sunday 27 February 2011
gigs coming our way
As mentioned one of the main aims of this blog is to try and generate a 'music scene' so we can get some more decent bands to play in Leamington. So far this seems to be an aim that the Assembly has been valiantly performing on its own!
So a heads up on a few top bands that have been booked for the next couple of months. Now I am sure that you will all know that Peter Doherty is playing because he is such a "public" figure (although for me I'm still not convinced - I love the romantic notion of a song writer who is really a poet with a troubled state of mind -hey just look at the picture at the top of the page! but for me despite a few excellent tunes he is still missing the quality song book required)
Of more interest to me are the Drive By Truckers who are playing at the Assembly on Wednesday 4th May (day after Pete -sorry Peter!). Now given the considerable amount of interest in Kings of Leon, Gaslight Anthem etc I am surprised more people haven't picked up on the Drive by Truckers. I guess they don't have the same kind of air of cool about them and have been going for much longer but the sound is very similar i.e. rock with a country and Americana twist.
Having released 2 albums in the past 12 months the Truckers are clearly not seeing any creative drought!! This is exactly the sort of band we need to be supporting - great musicians, top quality song writing and the desire to keep touring and putting on a show for the fans.
Tickets are selling out fast so make sure you get yours and don't miss out!!
Interestingly the next day sees another well known but perhaps forgotten name playing - Cerys Matthews. I guess many people will sadly remember her for being in the jungle!!! However she has a wide musical background from being at the fore front of Brit pop with Catatonia (who can forget the rolling Rs on road rage) through to dueting with the legend known as Tom Jones on to her more recent material which again shows a leaning towards the more countrified/folk sound.
Round of applause then to the Assembly for hosting 3 quality artists on the trot - lets make sure we support them all and maybe one day you will be able to go out on any night of the week and see a good band!!!
So a heads up on a few top bands that have been booked for the next couple of months. Now I am sure that you will all know that Peter Doherty is playing because he is such a "public" figure (although for me I'm still not convinced - I love the romantic notion of a song writer who is really a poet with a troubled state of mind -hey just look at the picture at the top of the page! but for me despite a few excellent tunes he is still missing the quality song book required)
Of more interest to me are the Drive By Truckers who are playing at the Assembly on Wednesday 4th May (day after Pete -sorry Peter!). Now given the considerable amount of interest in Kings of Leon, Gaslight Anthem etc I am surprised more people haven't picked up on the Drive by Truckers. I guess they don't have the same kind of air of cool about them and have been going for much longer but the sound is very similar i.e. rock with a country and Americana twist.
Having released 2 albums in the past 12 months the Truckers are clearly not seeing any creative drought!! This is exactly the sort of band we need to be supporting - great musicians, top quality song writing and the desire to keep touring and putting on a show for the fans.
Tickets are selling out fast so make sure you get yours and don't miss out!!
Interestingly the next day sees another well known but perhaps forgotten name playing - Cerys Matthews. I guess many people will sadly remember her for being in the jungle!!! However she has a wide musical background from being at the fore front of Brit pop with Catatonia (who can forget the rolling Rs on road rage) through to dueting with the legend known as Tom Jones on to her more recent material which again shows a leaning towards the more countrified/folk sound.
Round of applause then to the Assembly for hosting 3 quality artists on the trot - lets make sure we support them all and maybe one day you will be able to go out on any night of the week and see a good band!!!
Friday 18 February 2011
Cool places 3 The Clarendon
Now nights out are sadly not as common as they use to be for me so when I am out I really want to make sure I go somewhere decent.
Went to the Clarendon last Friday and can now officially confirm it as my favourite pub in Leamington. So good to go in to a place which has a mixture of people and a really good atmosphere. Really seemed like a place where everybody was there to have a few beers and a good time (not like some of the places in Leamington which appear the aim is just to pose and look good rather than have fun!!)
Without wishing to really sound like an old man one of the best factors was the bar staff - actually amazing to see staff who wanted to serve the customers and can actually remember the prices of drinks and add them up as they go along without the need to swipe a bar code after every drink. I honestly cant remember last time I was in a pub which was so busy but had such a well run bar that queuing was kept to a minimum and staff actually checked if you had been served rather than ignoring you.
Of Course it also helped that the pub has a real music feel to it with all the posters decorating the wall and the great music being played. They also host various themed nights including a Jam session on a Thursday that I will definitely check out
One thing that's for certain is that I will definitely be at the next "Voodoo Googa Mooga night" - a great pub playing rock n roll , surf, rockabilly etc now that is right up my street!!!
See you there?
http://www.theclarendonpub.com/index.htm
Went to the Clarendon last Friday and can now officially confirm it as my favourite pub in Leamington. So good to go in to a place which has a mixture of people and a really good atmosphere. Really seemed like a place where everybody was there to have a few beers and a good time (not like some of the places in Leamington which appear the aim is just to pose and look good rather than have fun!!)
Without wishing to really sound like an old man one of the best factors was the bar staff - actually amazing to see staff who wanted to serve the customers and can actually remember the prices of drinks and add them up as they go along without the need to swipe a bar code after every drink. I honestly cant remember last time I was in a pub which was so busy but had such a well run bar that queuing was kept to a minimum and staff actually checked if you had been served rather than ignoring you.
Of Course it also helped that the pub has a real music feel to it with all the posters decorating the wall and the great music being played. They also host various themed nights including a Jam session on a Thursday that I will definitely check out
One thing that's for certain is that I will definitely be at the next "Voodoo Googa Mooga night" - a great pub playing rock n roll , surf, rockabilly etc now that is right up my street!!!
See you there?
http://www.theclarendonpub.com/index.htm
Sunday 30 January 2011
Record clubs
Recently came across this really interesting article about record clubs springing up in parts of the country
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-12209143
Basic concept is that every week people get together to listen to a classic album all the way through.
Must admit that I'm not really a vinyl junkie (although some things go just sound better on vinyl i.e. The Doors) and have fully bought in to the "i pod " generation. Indeed the Ipod is probably my favourite invention ever.
However like others I have become a bit of a victim of shuffling between songs or artists and it can be easy to just skip some of the less interesting songs on albums.
This idea of a record club therefore really appeals for number of reasons
1) Can listen to a classic album all the way through
2) Opportunity to hear unheard albums
3) Mix with people who share my passion for music
4) Hey maybe have a few beers as well
Given the above I now intend to try and find a suitable venue and see if anyone else is interested
If you are reading this and would like to attend just drop me an email and I'll keep you informed as and when the first one happens
Cheers
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-12209143
Basic concept is that every week people get together to listen to a classic album all the way through.
Must admit that I'm not really a vinyl junkie (although some things go just sound better on vinyl i.e. The Doors) and have fully bought in to the "i pod " generation. Indeed the Ipod is probably my favourite invention ever.
However like others I have become a bit of a victim of shuffling between songs or artists and it can be easy to just skip some of the less interesting songs on albums.
This idea of a record club therefore really appeals for number of reasons
1) Can listen to a classic album all the way through
2) Opportunity to hear unheard albums
3) Mix with people who share my passion for music
4) Hey maybe have a few beers as well
Given the above I now intend to try and find a suitable venue and see if anyone else is interested
If you are reading this and would like to attend just drop me an email and I'll keep you informed as and when the first one happens
Cheers
Cool Places 2) The Assembly
I had been waiting years for a decent venue to open in Leamington and therefore was very excited at the opening of the Assembly. At last I though i could put an end to the drives to Birmingham - not that I minded the driving it was more the fact I couldnt have a few drinks whilst watching some decent bands.
I certainly wasnt dissapointed when the venue opened - clearly a lot of money was spent on it and it really is a very impressive venue. In fact weirdly my only real complaint is that it was a bit too nice and "clean" - guess I had just got use to dirty, sticky floored, dark venues and to be honest that kind of supports the type of music I like anyhow!
The Assembly has certainly had some classic acts there as well in a relatively short career - still cant quite believe that the Legendary New York Dolls actually played in Leamington!! They've also attracted a few other big names including Razorlight, Sisters of Mercy, Patti Smith The Enemy, The Stranglers and not forgetting the legend that is Peter Andre!!!!
As time has gone on it does seem that the venue still has a struggle to get some of the more sought after acts where guess they see Birmingham as the bigger draw and perhaps Leamington is too close to have second date there (?) so does seem to be a fair few tribute acts which is a shame.
However given they have recently booked Pete Doherty and Drive by Truckers perhaps we are in for a great 2011 for gigs in Leamington. The main thing is that we all need to support the venue because lots of punters will certainly encourage both the owners and the bands!!
I certainly wasnt dissapointed when the venue opened - clearly a lot of money was spent on it and it really is a very impressive venue. In fact weirdly my only real complaint is that it was a bit too nice and "clean" - guess I had just got use to dirty, sticky floored, dark venues and to be honest that kind of supports the type of music I like anyhow!
The Assembly has certainly had some classic acts there as well in a relatively short career - still cant quite believe that the Legendary New York Dolls actually played in Leamington!! They've also attracted a few other big names including Razorlight, Sisters of Mercy, Patti Smith The Enemy, The Stranglers and not forgetting the legend that is Peter Andre!!!!
As time has gone on it does seem that the venue still has a struggle to get some of the more sought after acts where guess they see Birmingham as the bigger draw and perhaps Leamington is too close to have second date there (?) so does seem to be a fair few tribute acts which is a shame.
However given they have recently booked Pete Doherty and Drive by Truckers perhaps we are in for a great 2011 for gigs in Leamington. The main thing is that we all need to support the venue because lots of punters will certainly encourage both the owners and the bands!!
Sunday 2 January 2011
My top ten albums of 2010 (No particular order)
- Gaslight Anthem - American Slang
2. Butch Walker and the Black Widows - I liked it Better
Butch Walker is a legend - who I hear you ask??? - well later I may do a full profile but for now just go out and buy this album (and all his others). This CD shows the full breadth of his repertoire. Going from the power pop (emphasis on power) of " Pretty Melody" and "Trash Talk" to the more acoustic/thought provoking "Don't you think someone". He is also not too afraid to take a humorous look at his past in "she Likes Hair Bands".
Seriously this is one of the most talented Musicians/songwriters ever.
3. Jesse Malin and the St Marks Social - "love it to Life
Similar to Butch this is a singer songwriter who has been around for some time but has never hit the heights his talent deserves (he had a brief spell when people picked up on him via his friend Ryan Adams),
Scarily Jesse was close to packing it all in but decided to have a go and making another rockier album in comparison to the more recent singer/songwriter stuff. It certainly pays off and its great to hear him performing with a full band sound. Songs such as "Burning the Bowery", " Disco Ghetto " and "Burn the Bridge" suggests he has decided he wants to just kick out and enjoy things again (as does the album title). If you want singer/songwriter stuff but with a kick this is for you
4. Semi Precious Weapons
Bit of a different one this - this band are on Lady Gagas label and supported her on tour - hold on, come back!!
This band really rock in old style Glam Metal way - the songs are rude and bad - If you want to relive the days of drinking JD in a rock club this is "awesome", Just listen to the song "Magnetic Baby" at full blast and you will be grabbing the bottle and the lipstick
5. Manic Street Preachers -Postcard from a young man
This is in my top 10 mainly because as a result of this I went to see their gig in Birmingham and they played the best set I have ever seen, It reminded me of how much I REALLY use to love this band, OK none of the songs are up there with You love us or Motorcycle Emptiness but there are some really good modern rock songs on here i.e. Its not war, Postcards, and all we are is entertainment.
OK so they appeared on strictly come dancing but NO one jumps on stage like Nicky Wire!
6. Fake Problems
Another relatively unknown band here in the UK and one which is really hard to describe, Sound is based around a kind of "Pop Punk" style but we're not talking about a Blink 182 style thing here, mainly because the song writing is way too good for that, It starts with a real "call to arms song" called ADT which will have you singing along and really wanting to see them live, My favourite track is "Song for Teenagers" a classic example of a really good "pop" song in the true meaning of the word.
7. Two Cow Garage - Sweet Saint Me
Guess its the effect of the TV series "True Blood" but last year I have really got in to the "Americana/Country/Punk" sounding bands i.e. the ones you could imagine playing in "Merlottes" whilst men drink whiskey and beer and women look hot. The best discovery of this type is Two Cow Garage. This album has songs you will want to sing, dance, drink and **** along to !
8. Blacklist Royals -Semper Liberi
A band in a similar vein as the Gaslight Anthem but perhaps with a rougher more punkier sound, Just looking at some of the song titles will give you an instant impression of this band "Rock N Roll", "Howling at the Moon", "Tennessee Blues" and "love in the back seat". This has been my go to album when I have had a bad day in the office and just want to get in my car and drive home as fast as possible (legally of course ;) ). Another album that HAS to be played at top volume and you're soon imagining you're on an American free way.
9. Imelda May - Mayhem
Bit of a different one to the rest of the list but still a great album, Imelda has a style and sound that just drips off old school rock N roll. Now I must admit I'm more of a fan of the more up tempo numbers which have a real 50s sound but even the slower ones offer a good change of pace which we all need at some times. Really annoyed I missed her at the assembly as would love to see her live where I am sure many of these songs would really come alive. If you're looking for something to listen to as you prepare to go to a burlesque night you could do a lot worse than this
10. Bruce Springsteen - The Collection 73-84
No real need for me to write a review of this other than to say you get 7 absolute classic albums in one nifty set, If you don't own these already or if you only have a Boss greatest hits CD then you really should buy this. AND at the time of writing you can buy it in Head in Leamington for just £12.99 - surely one of the best bargains ever!!
Cool Places in Leamington - #1 Head Music Shop
Now like most people I have fallen in to the trap of buying stuff off Amazon on a frequent basis and indeed on occasions downloading stuff off the internet (god forgive me!) but its always with a sense of guilt that I am not supporting my local record shop.
Ever since i first moved to Leamington I have been amazed what a good record store we have in Head (and its former name FOPP). Given the fact that record stores are rapidly becoming a thing of the past we really should do all we can to save this fantastic store.
There aren't many stores which stock such an eclectic mix and somehow manage to survive in a high profile (high rent ???) space - most which have survived are tucked away in dodgy back streets and occupied by the most dedicated (geeky!?!) music fan.
But we have one in a prime location which has virtually every CD you want -from the latest releases to a fantastic array of classics at ridiculous prices.
Now whilst a fan of vinyl even I couldn't resist the opportunity to replicate the entire Doors back catalogue on CD for c£30!! (hey I needed them on CD to put on my I pod!)
So if you need a CD join one of my resolution of 2011 and buy it from this shop - it may cost a couple more quid but don't let this be a case of us only knowing what we have got when its gone :(
Ever since i first moved to Leamington I have been amazed what a good record store we have in Head (and its former name FOPP). Given the fact that record stores are rapidly becoming a thing of the past we really should do all we can to save this fantastic store.
There aren't many stores which stock such an eclectic mix and somehow manage to survive in a high profile (high rent ???) space - most which have survived are tucked away in dodgy back streets and occupied by the most dedicated (geeky!?!) music fan.
But we have one in a prime location which has virtually every CD you want -from the latest releases to a fantastic array of classics at ridiculous prices.
Now whilst a fan of vinyl even I couldn't resist the opportunity to replicate the entire Doors back catalogue on CD for c£30!! (hey I needed them on CD to put on my I pod!)
So if you need a CD join one of my resolution of 2011 and buy it from this shop - it may cost a couple more quid but don't let this be a case of us only knowing what we have got when its gone :(
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