So here I go-my top lists of all things music for the year 2008:
Top 10 Albums:
1. Portishead-Third
2. Bon Iver-For Emma Forever Ago
3. Foals-Antidotes
4. The Notwist- The Devil You and Me
5. Laura Marling-Alas I Cannot Swim
6. TV On The Radio- Dear Science
7. Benga-Diary of an Afro Warrior
8. Elbow-The Seldom Seen Kid
9. Ez3kiel - Battlefield
10. Pivot-O Soundtrack My Heart
Just missed the cut: Kanye West-808s and Heartbreak, Sigur Ros-Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust, Late Of The Pier-Fantasy Black Channel, Lisa Hannigan-Sea Sew, M83-Saturdays=Youth, David Holmes-The Holy Pictures
Top 20 Singles:
1. Laura Marling- Night Terror
2. Portishead- Magic Doors
3. Yeasayer- 2080
4. Neon Neon- I Lust U
5. Kanye West- Love Lockdown
6. Elbow-Grounds for Divorce
7. Santogold- L.E.S Artistes
8. The Gutter Twins- Idle Hands
9. Sigur Ros- Gobbledigook
10. TV on the Radio- Family Tree
11. Beck- Walls
12. Lisa Hannigan- Teeth
13. Death Cab For Cutie- I Will Possess Your Heart
14. Grinderman- No Pussy Blues
15. Elbow- Some Riot
16. David Holmes- I Heard Wonders
17. Bon Iver- Flume
18. Kanye West- Welcome To Heartbreak
19. Foals- Olympic Airwaves
20. The Notwist- Boneless
Top 10 Gigs
1. Rage Against the Machine @ Oxegen
2. Radiohead @ Malahide Castle
3. Sigur Ros @ Electric Picnic
4. Kanye West @ NEC Birmingham
5. Lisa Hannigan @ Jean Monnet Theatre UL
6. Underworld @ Electric Picnic
7. The Roots @ Electric Picnic
8. Wiggle @ Life Festival
9. The Prodigy @ Oxegen
10. Mr Scruff @ Trinity Rooms Limerick
A good year on the Irish Front where more innovative and quality artist have been given well deserved (and vital) spotlight such as Lisa Hannigan, Rarely Seen Above Ground etc. etc.
2008 for me was a year of getting my ears around as much as possible....and despite this cold spell we are experiencing outside, my ears are warm and cosy from a year of spectacular sounds filling them.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Franz Ferdinand to play Dolans
Franz Ferdinand will be playing Dolans Warehouse February 28, 2009 according to Jim Carroll!
That is quite a pull to be fair!
That is quite a pull to be fair!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Youtubes new search feature...
....above each embedded video-I like very much.
Its the small things isnt it.
Its the small things isnt it.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Live at the Marquee Cork announces first batch of shows already
A batch of acts have been assigned to the Marquee shows in Cork. They seem to have been announced a bit earlier than usual.
The Prodigy in a Marquee would be well worth it:
June 18 – The Prodigy. €59.40, on sale Wednesday December 3
June 20 – Gilbert O’Sullivan. €39.20/€41.70, on sale Tuesday December 2
June 21 – Kasabian. €33.60, on sale Tuesday December 2
June 27 – Christy Moore. €35 – €45, on sale Monday December 1
July 4 – Josh Ritter. €38, Wednesday December 3
July 7 – Rod Stewart. €81.25/€91.25, on sale Monday December 1
The Prodigy in a Marquee would be well worth it:
June 18 – The Prodigy. €59.40, on sale Wednesday December 3
June 20 – Gilbert O’Sullivan. €39.20/€41.70, on sale Tuesday December 2
June 21 – Kasabian. €33.60, on sale Tuesday December 2
June 27 – Christy Moore. €35 – €45, on sale Monday December 1
July 4 – Josh Ritter. €38, Wednesday December 3
July 7 – Rod Stewart. €81.25/€91.25, on sale Monday December 1
Monday, November 24, 2008
Orbital to reform!!!!!!!!
Oh joy! According to NME:
Orbital have reformed after five years and will headline the Big Chill 2009.
The dance duo, whose split after their last gig headlining the Other Stage at Glastonbury in 2004, will head up the line-up for the Eastnor, Herefordshire bash, which will take place on August 7, 8 and 9 next summer.
Speaking about their reformation, Orbital's Phil Hartnoll said in a statement: "It's not an exercise in nostalgia, the time just seems right. Everything just seemed to fall into place.
"We've got 15 years of active service, making song. If you boil that down to a 90-minute festival set you should get something thoroughly exciting from beginning to end. Let's put some fun back into it."
No other acts on the bill have been announced yet. Keep checking NME.COM for ticket details when announced.
Acts including Leonard Cohen, The Mighty Boosh band and Roisin Murphy were on the bill for last August's bash.
Thank god for this as I was very sore with myself for missing their last Irish gig at Oxegen 2004 due to some piss poor timetabling by MCD. I mean what genius decided to have Orbital on the same time as Massive Attack AND the Chemical Brothers. Those MCD heads are a special bunch.
My intuition would lead me to believe they will headline Electric Picnic 2009.
Orbital have reformed after five years and will headline the Big Chill 2009.
The dance duo, whose split after their last gig headlining the Other Stage at Glastonbury in 2004, will head up the line-up for the Eastnor, Herefordshire bash, which will take place on August 7, 8 and 9 next summer.
Speaking about their reformation, Orbital's Phil Hartnoll said in a statement: "It's not an exercise in nostalgia, the time just seems right. Everything just seemed to fall into place.
"We've got 15 years of active service, making song. If you boil that down to a 90-minute festival set you should get something thoroughly exciting from beginning to end. Let's put some fun back into it."
No other acts on the bill have been announced yet. Keep checking NME.COM for ticket details when announced.
Acts including Leonard Cohen, The Mighty Boosh band and Roisin Murphy were on the bill for last August's bash.
Thank god for this as I was very sore with myself for missing their last Irish gig at Oxegen 2004 due to some piss poor timetabling by MCD. I mean what genius decided to have Orbital on the same time as Massive Attack AND the Chemical Brothers. Those MCD heads are a special bunch.
My intuition would lead me to believe they will headline Electric Picnic 2009.
Tune I would most like to wrap up at present....
is "Walls" from Becks latest album "Modern Guilt".
There is such an addictive flow to it...and I need a fix of it every day, just to take the edge of you know
There is such an addictive flow to it...and I need a fix of it every day, just to take the edge of you know
Friday, November 21, 2008
LCD Soundsystem are no more....
Apparently James Murphy has callled it a day for LCD Soundsystem material being created however the personnel ensemble of the group will operate in the near future under a different alias and a possible change in direction musically.
A sad day, but possibly the dawn of a great day....
A sad day, but possibly the dawn of a great day....
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Kanye West, NEC Birmingham 15/11/08
The best way I thought of celebrating fnishing some tough projects was to visit a friend in Birmingham and smack up the Kanye West gig. Kanye West is an artist I admire for his willingness to utilise various genres in creating his own style of tunes. At times I find some of his material hit and miss (mainly due to some of those tunes with the annoying vocal distortions reminiscent of a Scooter song-his song "Through the Wire" springs to mind. Ultimately the man has serious talent and confidence and I knew it was going to be a belter of a show.
The NEC arena in Birmigham is a fine arena and altough we were seated in the furthest corner of the arena away from the stage the sound wasnt totally lacking as I presumed it would. I was delighted to hear Santogold was the support act but her performance was timid enough. The crowd seemed impatient with her to be honest.
Kanyes stage setup was bloody impressive. Elevated slopes covered the stage to mimic an alien planet with the flat mid-section mobile throughout the performance moving forwards, upwards an so on. The live band were situated in the front of the stage. Each member or section of the band were elevated for each performance depending on their input to each song.
Kanye spoke to a "Knight Rider" type character on the giant screen intermittently between songs which I thought was a good idea but was executed poorly. It came across a tad cheesy.
Mr. West is a known performer-the man can belt them out. A lot of songs were given fresh adjustments and others were pushed into a higher gear. "Jesus Walks", "Diamonds are Forever" and "Flashing Lights" were real standouts. The whole crowd throw hands forward in unison which saw something to behold from where we were standing.
The man leaves an impression. The mans got talent. If you can check him out.
The NEC arena in Birmigham is a fine arena and altough we were seated in the furthest corner of the arena away from the stage the sound wasnt totally lacking as I presumed it would. I was delighted to hear Santogold was the support act but her performance was timid enough. The crowd seemed impatient with her to be honest.
Kanyes stage setup was bloody impressive. Elevated slopes covered the stage to mimic an alien planet with the flat mid-section mobile throughout the performance moving forwards, upwards an so on. The live band were situated in the front of the stage. Each member or section of the band were elevated for each performance depending on their input to each song.
Kanye spoke to a "Knight Rider" type character on the giant screen intermittently between songs which I thought was a good idea but was executed poorly. It came across a tad cheesy.
Mr. West is a known performer-the man can belt them out. A lot of songs were given fresh adjustments and others were pushed into a higher gear. "Jesus Walks", "Diamonds are Forever" and "Flashing Lights" were real standouts. The whole crowd throw hands forward in unison which saw something to behold from where we were standing.
The man leaves an impression. The mans got talent. If you can check him out.
Friday, November 7, 2008
MTV EMA 2008....last night
Sweet merciful lord what was last nights EMAs(on in Liverpool) all about.
Firstly Katy Perry was disgracefully hollow with her weak presenting consisting of childish sexual innuendos.
Secondly there were moments where it felt like some major propaganda rally (dare I compare it to the Nuremburg Rallys of the Hitler era) for Barack Obama. Every presenter or artist paid homage to him at any given chance. I am not trying to be pessimistic about his victory, and indeed Americas-but last night was overkill to the highest order.
It was as if the whole show was supposed to emulate the notion that the US isnt a jokeshop in the eyes of the world thanks to Obama's win. Is MTV really a propaganda mechanism to sway the thoughts of teenagers/young adults in Europe to love America again?
The winners of some of the awards were highly undeserving and the titles MTV gives to awards now is to say the least puke. Tokio Hotel being nominated(not to mind winning an award-which they did) demeans art.
Bono-what were you thinking claiming the Beatles belong to Dublin and other self-rightous padding he gave to his introduction to Paul McCartney was cringe-tastic
Once again Kanye redeemed the show with a stellar perfrormance. MTV owe him
There were many instances throughout the MTV EMAs 2008 where I felt let down by life and society-I really did. It was truly awful stuff-shame on you MTV
Firstly Katy Perry was disgracefully hollow with her weak presenting consisting of childish sexual innuendos.
Secondly there were moments where it felt like some major propaganda rally (dare I compare it to the Nuremburg Rallys of the Hitler era) for Barack Obama. Every presenter or artist paid homage to him at any given chance. I am not trying to be pessimistic about his victory, and indeed Americas-but last night was overkill to the highest order.
It was as if the whole show was supposed to emulate the notion that the US isnt a jokeshop in the eyes of the world thanks to Obama's win. Is MTV really a propaganda mechanism to sway the thoughts of teenagers/young adults in Europe to love America again?
The winners of some of the awards were highly undeserving and the titles MTV gives to awards now is to say the least puke. Tokio Hotel being nominated(not to mind winning an award-which they did) demeans art.
Bono-what were you thinking claiming the Beatles belong to Dublin and other self-rightous padding he gave to his introduction to Paul McCartney was cringe-tastic
Once again Kanye redeemed the show with a stellar perfrormance. MTV owe him
There were many instances throughout the MTV EMAs 2008 where I felt let down by life and society-I really did. It was truly awful stuff-shame on you MTV
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Last nights Jools Holland show
If you didnt get to see Later with Jools Holland last night(short half hour broadcast) on BB2 be sure to check out the full show on BBC2 this Friday at around 11.30 p.m.
It was so brilliantly random compared to most episodes. From Al Greens ambiguous interiew coupled with a rapturous performance of "Lets stay together" to Jools having to warn viewers of the impending strobe lighting(first time on the show I believe) coming from Pendulums performance. Then there was Damon Alburn showcasing his new project-and what fun it is......
It was so brilliantly random compared to most episodes. From Al Greens ambiguous interiew coupled with a rapturous performance of "Lets stay together" to Jools having to warn viewers of the impending strobe lighting(first time on the show I believe) coming from Pendulums performance. Then there was Damon Alburn showcasing his new project-and what fun it is......
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Wire
After hearing rave reviews about this TV show for quite some time now through various blogs and articles I decided I had to submerge my bad self into the world of the Baltimore(setting of the show) police department. I also decided it best to start from the very beginning in order to allow myself concentrate on the whole picture.
Four episodes into series 1 and what do I think? It is a bloody good programme. It is utterly engrossing. I feel like hibernating right now and smacking myself in the face with all the later episodes and seasons(its at season 5 at present I believe)
In my opinion what sets it apart from all other "Cop" shows on the box at the moment is the sequence and flow of the storylines. The CSIs and all that are grand for one or two episodes but I always feel like each episode is a carbon copy of the rest given their format:
murder-problem-case-solve
The Wire seems to be a long running storyline centered around a loose and reluctant collection of cops delegated the role of breaking up a drugs ring ridden with unsolved murders in the Projects. Four episodes in and already I am indulged in the rugged network of police politics and corruption. Every scene and character encounter is relevant. The are funny moments too, which I like.
Get involved in this programme-you wont be disappointed.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
MCD release Oasis to play Slane promo vid
I just recieved an email from MCD there giving a link to their special promo video for Oasis being announced that they will play Slane. This is the first time I have seen such carry on.
Its all a bit much I think. I find it stangely peculiar that there is no mention of ticket prices on MCDs website either. And since when have tickets for Slane ever gone on sale before Christmas? There is a lot of panic out there!
Its all a bit much I think. I find it stangely peculiar that there is no mention of ticket prices on MCDs website either. And since when have tickets for Slane ever gone on sale before Christmas? There is a lot of panic out there!
Friday, October 17, 2008
More gigs announced for Dolans
Firstly, Novembember 30th brings Tipperary favourite Gemma Hayes back to The Warehouse after her amazing show here last April.
Tickets priced €21 are going on sale at 3pm today.
Secondly..we are delighted to announce that Former Moloko vocalist Róisín Murphy will play a show here in Dolans on Tuesday December 1st.
Murphy rose to fame with Mark Brydon as electronic pop duo Moloko in the 1990s. The duo scored success with albums such as 'Do You Like My Tight Sweater?' and 'Things To Make And Do', as well as hit singles such as 'Sing It Back' and ''The Time Is Now'.
Murphy launched her solo career in 2005 with her debut album 'Ruby Blue' and signed with EMI in 2006. Her second album, 'Overpowered', was released in October and is described as a "heady mix of electronic dance anthems and soul-stirring pop songs".
Tickets priced €27 go on sale at 2pm today!
And Thirdly..THE FUTUREHEADS have confirmed a date here in The Warehouse of Tuesday December 16th! With tickets priced €18 they are a steal! Just the thing to get you fired up for the Christmas celebrations!
These tickets go on sale next Monday morning at 10am
This is great to see. There has been welcome influx of good acts hitting Limerick in the last few weeks between Dolans, Trinity Rooms and UL and it doesn't seem to be letting up.
I would highly recommend checking out Roisin Murphy for a night of funky pop boasting several costume changes!
Tickets priced €21 are going on sale at 3pm today.
Secondly..we are delighted to announce that Former Moloko vocalist Róisín Murphy will play a show here in Dolans on Tuesday December 1st.
Murphy rose to fame with Mark Brydon as electronic pop duo Moloko in the 1990s. The duo scored success with albums such as 'Do You Like My Tight Sweater?' and 'Things To Make And Do', as well as hit singles such as 'Sing It Back' and ''The Time Is Now'.
Murphy launched her solo career in 2005 with her debut album 'Ruby Blue' and signed with EMI in 2006. Her second album, 'Overpowered', was released in October and is described as a "heady mix of electronic dance anthems and soul-stirring pop songs".
Tickets priced €27 go on sale at 2pm today!
And Thirdly..THE FUTUREHEADS have confirmed a date here in The Warehouse of Tuesday December 16th! With tickets priced €18 they are a steal! Just the thing to get you fired up for the Christmas celebrations!
These tickets go on sale next Monday morning at 10am
This is great to see. There has been welcome influx of good acts hitting Limerick in the last few weeks between Dolans, Trinity Rooms and UL and it doesn't seem to be letting up.
I would highly recommend checking out Roisin Murphy for a night of funky pop boasting several costume changes!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Cheap packaging???
On the morn of our impending National Budget I feel the need to shed light on something I have observed in the past week or so. If you go in to your local supermarket, or major one if thats the case, and have a look at the packaging on certain items like Coca Cola bottles or boxes of Barrys Tea. Do the graphics on the Coke labels seem a lot more simplistic than they were only a few weeks ago.
The Barrys Tea boxes' latest artwork is certainly cheaper looking, somewhat identical to it's discount catering-freindly.
Are the other major players going to follow suit and get rid of the pretty packaging?
P.S: Sorry about the lack of visual evidence-I don't usually carry around a camera when buying a pack of Cadburys Fingers (best biscuit out there so you know)
The Barrys Tea boxes' latest artwork is certainly cheaper looking, somewhat identical to it's discount catering-freindly.
Are the other major players going to follow suit and get rid of the pretty packaging?
P.S: Sorry about the lack of visual evidence-I don't usually carry around a camera when buying a pack of Cadburys Fingers (best biscuit out there so you know)
Friday, October 10, 2008
Cathy Davey
I interviewed Cathy Davey on Wenesday night after her performance in UL's Jean Monnet Theatre. She was really nice and quite chatty. She is rather attractive too! It was quite relaxed as we chatted about the musical world and all its delights.
I got the feeling though that she was a bit unsure about her music(or maybe herself) The gig consisted of three covers which I found odd as the set was shortish and she has two albums of material to work off. With the aid of two accompanying bandmates she delivered a downtempo set with heavy connotations to the world of jazz.
She admitted that the new album will have a more jazzy feel to it and will be a tad deeper than the previous two albums.
The gig was coupled with a few mistakes and a set list change but Cathy displayed a sturdiness that rode through the hiccups. Her voice was sultry and alluring during the downtempo tunes and then punched through the upbeat numbers. The problem was the flow of the set list did not work. But the divergence towards a downtempo, jazzy-ish sound was something to be adored.
I look forward to hearing her coming album
I got the feeling though that she was a bit unsure about her music(or maybe herself) The gig consisted of three covers which I found odd as the set was shortish and she has two albums of material to work off. With the aid of two accompanying bandmates she delivered a downtempo set with heavy connotations to the world of jazz.
She admitted that the new album will have a more jazzy feel to it and will be a tad deeper than the previous two albums.
The gig was coupled with a few mistakes and a set list change but Cathy displayed a sturdiness that rode through the hiccups. Her voice was sultry and alluring during the downtempo tunes and then punched through the upbeat numbers. The problem was the flow of the set list did not work. But the divergence towards a downtempo, jazzy-ish sound was something to be adored.
I look forward to hearing her coming album
Daedalus to play Limerick again
Funkster Daedalus has been announced to play Trinity Rooms on Saturday the 25th October. The guy is one of the most innovative producers of experimental electronical musical frolicks. He also sports he best Side-burns in the industry. This should be a packed gig following his performance in The Cornmarket on behalf of Cheebah which I missed because I am a pussy.
Deadmau5 is also playing Trooms this coming Wendesday which will be a truly banging affair. If you want to make it a bumper night do check out Jape in Dolans on the same night(probably on about 9/10 while Deadmau5 starting at 12)
Deadmau5 is also playing Trooms this coming Wendesday which will be a truly banging affair. If you want to make it a bumper night do check out Jape in Dolans on the same night(probably on about 9/10 while Deadmau5 starting at 12)
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Happy Birthday Thom
Happy Birthday Thom Yorke!
Thom is 40 today and I for one am quite sad as that leaves less years for him to fill my ears with the magic he has done in the past. Some may disagree but the man is one of the few instigators around at present that submits highly innovative music that becomes huge in the mainstream (take note Oasis)
I am feeling quite sombre about todays news so I shall retreat to my ipod for comfort.
Thom is 40 today and I for one am quite sad as that leaves less years for him to fill my ears with the magic he has done in the past. Some may disagree but the man is one of the few instigators around at present that submits highly innovative music that becomes huge in the mainstream (take note Oasis)
I am feeling quite sombre about todays news so I shall retreat to my ipod for comfort.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Recession Talk
So we now have 400 billion Euro to blow...........wahey!
One thing I noticed during all the doom and gloom of the recession hype over the past two or three months was the media evoking flashbacks of the 80s recession.
I have been folowing the media on a regular basis since I was capable of processing the information and call me lost/slow or whatever you want, but I was never aware of the extent of the 80s recession. I knew things werent the best and emigration was high but it sounded like Ireland was some post-apocalyptic gutter hole.
During the era of the Celtic Tiger was my generation covered in a sheet of bubblewrap(excuse the irony) from the dark days of mid 80s Ireland or were all the flashbacks the medias love tool?
One thing I noticed during all the doom and gloom of the recession hype over the past two or three months was the media evoking flashbacks of the 80s recession.
I have been folowing the media on a regular basis since I was capable of processing the information and call me lost/slow or whatever you want, but I was never aware of the extent of the 80s recession. I knew things werent the best and emigration was high but it sounded like Ireland was some post-apocalyptic gutter hole.
During the era of the Celtic Tiger was my generation covered in a sheet of bubblewrap(excuse the irony) from the dark days of mid 80s Ireland or were all the flashbacks the medias love tool?
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Rolling Stone can be useful....at times....
A guide to 50 of Autumns most talked about albums:
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/23181054/page/1
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/23181054/page/1
Forgot to put this up last week..........
FAT FREDDYS DROP
THE PRESETS
WHITE LIES
JOHNNY FOREIGNER
THOMAS TANTRUM
join
HERBIE HANCOCK, TV ON THE RADIO, CUT COPY, FUTURE OF THE LEFT, CLINIC, JAY REATARD & BESTIVAL REUNION TOUR (DAN LESAC vs SCROOBIUS PIP, 808 STATE, FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE, DJ YODA, ROB DABANK, THE CUBAN BROTHERS, MERCY ARMS, SOMBRERO SOUNDSYSTEM)
@
HEINEKEN GREEN SYNERGY: VILLAGE QUARTER
Tripod, Village, Whelans, Anseo, Solas and Shine
(Wed Nov. 12th – Sun Nov. 16th)
*********
The best festival this winter has just got better with Heineken Green Synergy expanding its line-up with a new mix of acts joining an already original and stellar bill.
FAT FREDDYS DROP bring their seven piece roots, dub, reggae, jazz and soul fusion from New Zealand to Tripod on Sunday November 16th. Woozy, echoing dub sonics characterise Based On A True Story, their best known release over here with uptempo party-type numbers like 'Roady,' which bounces with brass, organ bits and wah-treated guitar.
Fresh from wowing fans at the Electric Picnic, Aussie electro-pop duo THE PRESETS plan to rip it up again with some hedonistic beats in the Village on Sunday November 16th.
WHITE LIES are three 19/20 year olds from West London who only played their first gig together earlier this year yet already they've been signed to Fiction Records and Nick Cave, Morrissey and Mark Ronson have all been spotted at their gigs. Selking out their shows already, their debut single 'Unfinished Business' is an evocative moody tune. They play Whelans on Thursday November 13th.
Birmingham indie rock trio JOHNNY FOREIGNER hit Whelans on Wednesday November 12th with tracks from their debut album 'Waited Up 'Til It Was Light'. Support comes from THOMAS TANTRUM, a Southamption quartet whose infectious pop is already being championed by Glasvegas and Lily Allen.
And Heineken Green Synergy has more treats in store for the music fans in the Village Quarter this November. The countdown has just begun.
NEW SHOW DETAILS – on sale this Thursday @ 9am
FAT FREDDYS DROP / Tripod / Sun. Nov. 16th / €22.50 & €32.50
THE PRESETS / Village / Sun. Nov. 16th / €20
WHITE LIES / Whelans / Thurs. Nov. 13th / €12.50
JOHNNY FOREIGNER & THOMAS TANTRUM / Wed. Nov. 12th / €15
SHOWS ON SALE ALREADY
HERBIE HANCOCK / Tripod / Wed. Nov. 12th / €44.50 & €64.50
TV ON THE RADIO / Tripod / Sat. Nov. 15th / €22.50 & €27.50
CUT COPY / Village / Sat. Nov. 15th / €22.50
BESTIVAL REUNION TOUR / Tripod / Fri. Nov. 14th / €25
FUTURE OF THE LEFT / Whelans Upstairs / Fri. Nov. 14th / €15
CLINIC / Village / Wed. Nov. 12th / €15
JAY REATARD / Whelans Upstairs / Sun. Nov. 16th / €14
What a tasty treat this is! Feck this recession talk lets just party through it!
THE PRESETS
WHITE LIES
JOHNNY FOREIGNER
THOMAS TANTRUM
join
HERBIE HANCOCK, TV ON THE RADIO, CUT COPY, FUTURE OF THE LEFT, CLINIC, JAY REATARD & BESTIVAL REUNION TOUR (DAN LESAC vs SCROOBIUS PIP, 808 STATE, FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE, DJ YODA, ROB DABANK, THE CUBAN BROTHERS, MERCY ARMS, SOMBRERO SOUNDSYSTEM)
@
HEINEKEN GREEN SYNERGY: VILLAGE QUARTER
Tripod, Village, Whelans, Anseo, Solas and Shine
(Wed Nov. 12th – Sun Nov. 16th)
*********
The best festival this winter has just got better with Heineken Green Synergy expanding its line-up with a new mix of acts joining an already original and stellar bill.
FAT FREDDYS DROP bring their seven piece roots, dub, reggae, jazz and soul fusion from New Zealand to Tripod on Sunday November 16th. Woozy, echoing dub sonics characterise Based On A True Story, their best known release over here with uptempo party-type numbers like 'Roady,' which bounces with brass, organ bits and wah-treated guitar.
Fresh from wowing fans at the Electric Picnic, Aussie electro-pop duo THE PRESETS plan to rip it up again with some hedonistic beats in the Village on Sunday November 16th.
WHITE LIES are three 19/20 year olds from West London who only played their first gig together earlier this year yet already they've been signed to Fiction Records and Nick Cave, Morrissey and Mark Ronson have all been spotted at their gigs. Selking out their shows already, their debut single 'Unfinished Business' is an evocative moody tune. They play Whelans on Thursday November 13th.
Birmingham indie rock trio JOHNNY FOREIGNER hit Whelans on Wednesday November 12th with tracks from their debut album 'Waited Up 'Til It Was Light'. Support comes from THOMAS TANTRUM, a Southamption quartet whose infectious pop is already being championed by Glasvegas and Lily Allen.
And Heineken Green Synergy has more treats in store for the music fans in the Village Quarter this November. The countdown has just begun.
NEW SHOW DETAILS – on sale this Thursday @ 9am
FAT FREDDYS DROP / Tripod / Sun. Nov. 16th / €22.50 & €32.50
THE PRESETS / Village / Sun. Nov. 16th / €20
WHITE LIES / Whelans / Thurs. Nov. 13th / €12.50
JOHNNY FOREIGNER & THOMAS TANTRUM / Wed. Nov. 12th / €15
SHOWS ON SALE ALREADY
HERBIE HANCOCK / Tripod / Wed. Nov. 12th / €44.50 & €64.50
TV ON THE RADIO / Tripod / Sat. Nov. 15th / €22.50 & €27.50
CUT COPY / Village / Sat. Nov. 15th / €22.50
BESTIVAL REUNION TOUR / Tripod / Fri. Nov. 14th / €25
FUTURE OF THE LEFT / Whelans Upstairs / Fri. Nov. 14th / €15
CLINIC / Village / Wed. Nov. 12th / €15
JAY REATARD / Whelans Upstairs / Sun. Nov. 16th / €14
What a tasty treat this is! Feck this recession talk lets just party through it!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Feeling romantic?
I have been told from a very sure source that the Swell Season will be gracing Limerick before Christmas.
Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, stars of the low-budget gem "Once" will be playing St. Marys Cathedral (or St.Johns) to only 250 people. A lovely intimate setting to complement some charming tunes.
Score some serious brownie points guys and bring your lady friend
Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, stars of the low-budget gem "Once" will be playing St. Marys Cathedral (or St.Johns) to only 250 people. A lovely intimate setting to complement some charming tunes.
Score some serious brownie points guys and bring your lady friend
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Lisa Hannigan
I type this fresh from seeing Lisa Hannigan in the Jean Monnet Theatre in UL.
I got the chance to interview here before the gig and as I expected she was a real genuine and kind soul. She was full of chat and indifferent to any time constraints.
Onstage and she was quite simply captivating. Her voice just enraptures your attention through soft swindlings to heavy yet soothing bellows. I dont know about anyone else there but I felt somewhat seduced by her performance...she is lovely.
Full report and interview to come soon.....when I get the chance!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Zion Train to play Trinity Rooms
Dub Reggae addicts should hit Trinity Rooms Sunday 2nd November to see Zion Train!
Saw these guys in the early months of 2007 in Dolans and it got frisky and sweaty! Be prepared to bop on to the frenzy!
Saw these guys in the early months of 2007 in Dolans and it got frisky and sweaty! Be prepared to bop on to the frenzy!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
RIP Richard Wright
The legandary keyboard player for Pink Floyd Richard Wright passed away on Monday aged 65. His role was vital to the epic Pink Floyd sound. He was one of the founding members of the band.
Pink Floyd are one of my all time favourite bands and they have been one of the worlds most influential. No home should be without "Dark Side of the Moon".
Pink Floyd are one of my all time favourite bands and they have been one of the worlds most influential. No home should be without "Dark Side of the Moon".
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
How to steal/save the show
I only got a chance to watch this years MTV VMAs yesterday and I have to say it was the blandest and most ridiculous show yet. If it wasn't for Russel Brand pushing the boundaries of what a presenter should say I would have gone off and made a curry.
The last performance was done by Kanye West displaying some of his new material from his forthcoming album. He really smacked the show in the right cheek. A gripping performance of a stomping new tune.
The last performance was done by Kanye West displaying some of his new material from his forthcoming album. He really smacked the show in the right cheek. A gripping performance of a stomping new tune.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Elbow win the Mercury Music Prize 2008
Congratulations to Elbow for winning this years Mercury for their album "The Seldom Seed Kid". Watching the awards last night on BBC 2 I couldnt help but be absolutely delighted for the band. Upon hearing of their win the band became exasperated with expressions of utter joy. Had Radiohead won it I dont think they would have displayed a fraction of the emotion Elbow did.
The album is beauty. It bursts with emotion and magnificient song arrangement. The track "Grounds for Divorce" just stomps its way all over the joint. My personal favourite from the album is "Some Riot". The piano sequence at the start is quite simply captivating and Guy Garveys vocal fall upon it eloquently. The song soars to an epic climax which leaves the listener feeling very tingly inside.
One other thing of note from the awards was Burial not showing up which was no real surprise given his anonymous stance. I wonder if he did turn up would he have won it for his album "Untrue" which was my personal favourite of the year?
The album is beauty. It bursts with emotion and magnificient song arrangement. The track "Grounds for Divorce" just stomps its way all over the joint. My personal favourite from the album is "Some Riot". The piano sequence at the start is quite simply captivating and Guy Garveys vocal fall upon it eloquently. The song soars to an epic climax which leaves the listener feeling very tingly inside.
One other thing of note from the awards was Burial not showing up which was no real surprise given his anonymous stance. I wonder if he did turn up would he have won it for his album "Untrue" which was my personal favourite of the year?
Monday, September 8, 2008
Friday, September 5, 2008
Mystery Jets new tune
I like this a lot. It is a tad on the cheese radar but it does draw me in. It smacks a bit of the Smiths but with a fresher kick. Your man also makes me want to get my nose pierced.
Electric Picnic 2008
Yes I am a tad late with my say on this....but I only after recovering from it now so whatever:
Highlights:
Sigor Ros on the main stage Friday night….what a performance, probably the best of the weekend
Kila surprising me with a set filled with theatrics and Celtic punk
Nick Cave and Grinderman tore the stage apart, Cave just owned the stage
The increased number of Art installations around the campsite led to such a vibrant landscape in which I could walk around the whole weekend
Putting the Bodytonic dance Village in one of the campsites was a genius stroke as it left the main area feeling less cluttered and more kid-free, which leads to my next point….
The apparent increase in number of families with small kids-it really was great to see all generations enjoying the festivities. If I had kids I would bring them with me without doubt
Hearing Mark Lanegans voice for the first time live when he played with the Gutter Twins….its so deep and coarse yet endearing at the same time
Going with my gut feeling and discovering two great acts: Pivot and Ullrich Schnauss- filled my tum tum with glee
Getting my bop on for the Foals
Lowlights:
The Body and Soul area being too big and cluttered-it really took away from the spirit of the area in the past years
The Sex Pistols-worst crowd I have seen for a headline at a main stage
Missing the following: Dan Deacon, Modeselektor, Benga and Rachel Allen getting her cook on
Waking up Sunday morning without my phone, wallet, jumper, sunglasses and my socks
No Portishead headlining-they should have been there
Missing Dark Side of the Oz in the cinema tent even though ive seen it before
Going home and getting a slap of Autumn in the face ever since
Highlights:
Sigor Ros on the main stage Friday night….what a performance, probably the best of the weekend
Kila surprising me with a set filled with theatrics and Celtic punk
Nick Cave and Grinderman tore the stage apart, Cave just owned the stage
The increased number of Art installations around the campsite led to such a vibrant landscape in which I could walk around the whole weekend
Putting the Bodytonic dance Village in one of the campsites was a genius stroke as it left the main area feeling less cluttered and more kid-free, which leads to my next point….
The apparent increase in number of families with small kids-it really was great to see all generations enjoying the festivities. If I had kids I would bring them with me without doubt
Hearing Mark Lanegans voice for the first time live when he played with the Gutter Twins….its so deep and coarse yet endearing at the same time
Going with my gut feeling and discovering two great acts: Pivot and Ullrich Schnauss- filled my tum tum with glee
Getting my bop on for the Foals
Lowlights:
The Body and Soul area being too big and cluttered-it really took away from the spirit of the area in the past years
The Sex Pistols-worst crowd I have seen for a headline at a main stage
Missing the following: Dan Deacon, Modeselektor, Benga and Rachel Allen getting her cook on
Waking up Sunday morning without my phone, wallet, jumper, sunglasses and my socks
No Portishead headlining-they should have been there
Missing Dark Side of the Oz in the cinema tent even though ive seen it before
Going home and getting a slap of Autumn in the face ever since
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Jape to play Dolans
Good news for the Limerick gig scene:
Richie Egans Jape are to play Dolans on Wenesday October 15th
Caught them at the Life festival in July and they were really ripping. I also heard some very positive comments about their set at the weekends Picnic which I missed as I got lazy in the Body and Soul...as you do
heres a vid:
N.B.
Jack Whites outfit the Raconteurs seem to be covering this song at all their gigs now...so you know
Richie Egans Jape are to play Dolans on Wenesday October 15th
Caught them at the Life festival in July and they were really ripping. I also heard some very positive comments about their set at the weekends Picnic which I missed as I got lazy in the Body and Soul...as you do
heres a vid:
N.B.
Jack Whites outfit the Raconteurs seem to be covering this song at all their gigs now...so you know
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The Blizzards
Before I went to Sicily I did an interview(my first actually) with Niall Breslin, lead singer of the Blizzards for the new "Pulse" magazine out this week in Limerick(mainly UL)
The Blizzards are not my swim in the sea.....I think they are very shit to be completely honest but I did my best to give as unbiased an article as I could. Here it is:
The Blizzards return to UL this September, David Morrissey talked to Niall Breslin “Bresy” about what can be expected of the upcoming gig and upcoming album.
The Blizzards return to UL this September armed with new material from their new album “The Domino Effect” which is due to be released . The lads from Mullingar have enjoyed a certain amount of success as a result of their 2006 album “A Public Display of Affection”. Their performance on the main stage at Oxegen 2007 helped them to the Meteor award for “Best Live Performance of that year. If infectious pop fused with a bit of punk and ska is your thing, well the Blizzards won’t disappoint.
Is there going to be a change in musical direction for their new album? The answer to this was no. According to Bresy there “isn’t much change”. He quickly followed on to explain that they did push themselves very hard on the new album but were very careful not to change anything. I found this slightly peculiar, especially for a relatively fresh and young band who would be expected to experiment to some extent. I queried him further on the matter of why there was no real change and he forwarded the example of Radiohead. He claimed everything that they have come up with after “The Bends” has been “rubbish”. Before their change in musical direction (from “OK Computer” onwards) they were producing “great rock music” he argues.
There is a bit of resemblance between the Blizzards and the now indie heavy-weights the Artic Monkeys. That point of resemblance is that of each bands vocal delivery and lyric style. Both bands use a colloquial styled collection of lyrics i.e. “street talk” and both bands, thanks to their lead singers, deliver the lyrics in a sort of “talkative” manner that transcends the lyrics perfectly. Recently Alex Turner (lead singer of the Artic Monkeys) has approached both lyrics and vocal delivery in a more articulate/mature manner with his latest side project The Last Shadow Puppets. I asked Bresy if this a direction he may choose to pursue himself. Again the answer was no. “Stick to your strengths” was his reasoning behind this.
So if they were to stick to their strengths they would yield huge amounts of success? Not necessarily. The Blizzards have enjoyed success in Ireland but have yet to break the UK market. They have built themselves into a very tight performance unit on the road throughout Irelands live venues. So if there is little or no change in their musical direction this time (or in the future by the sound of things) what is going to keep the Blizzards appeal in motion?
The simple answer to this is attitude. Throughout the interview Bresy spouted the word “attitude” several times. This was his interpretation of how the music has changed(if only very slightly) His tone throughout the interview was very direct and slightly rebellious. It was as if he was trying to say “F**k all the doubters, this is going to be a great album and we are going to show everyone. There was a very determined stigma attached to his speech. I for one felt quite convinced about the bands future as a result.
I asked what we can expect at the upcoming UL gig. He remarked amongst other things that they will have a brass section new to their shows. Brass and attitude-an intense gig it should be so.
The Blizzards are not my swim in the sea.....I think they are very shit to be completely honest but I did my best to give as unbiased an article as I could. Here it is:
The Blizzards return to UL this September, David Morrissey talked to Niall Breslin “Bresy” about what can be expected of the upcoming gig and upcoming album.
The Blizzards return to UL this September armed with new material from their new album “The Domino Effect” which is due to be released . The lads from Mullingar have enjoyed a certain amount of success as a result of their 2006 album “A Public Display of Affection”. Their performance on the main stage at Oxegen 2007 helped them to the Meteor award for “Best Live Performance of that year. If infectious pop fused with a bit of punk and ska is your thing, well the Blizzards won’t disappoint.
Is there going to be a change in musical direction for their new album? The answer to this was no. According to Bresy there “isn’t much change”. He quickly followed on to explain that they did push themselves very hard on the new album but were very careful not to change anything. I found this slightly peculiar, especially for a relatively fresh and young band who would be expected to experiment to some extent. I queried him further on the matter of why there was no real change and he forwarded the example of Radiohead. He claimed everything that they have come up with after “The Bends” has been “rubbish”. Before their change in musical direction (from “OK Computer” onwards) they were producing “great rock music” he argues.
There is a bit of resemblance between the Blizzards and the now indie heavy-weights the Artic Monkeys. That point of resemblance is that of each bands vocal delivery and lyric style. Both bands use a colloquial styled collection of lyrics i.e. “street talk” and both bands, thanks to their lead singers, deliver the lyrics in a sort of “talkative” manner that transcends the lyrics perfectly. Recently Alex Turner (lead singer of the Artic Monkeys) has approached both lyrics and vocal delivery in a more articulate/mature manner with his latest side project The Last Shadow Puppets. I asked Bresy if this a direction he may choose to pursue himself. Again the answer was no. “Stick to your strengths” was his reasoning behind this.
So if they were to stick to their strengths they would yield huge amounts of success? Not necessarily. The Blizzards have enjoyed success in Ireland but have yet to break the UK market. They have built themselves into a very tight performance unit on the road throughout Irelands live venues. So if there is little or no change in their musical direction this time (or in the future by the sound of things) what is going to keep the Blizzards appeal in motion?
The simple answer to this is attitude. Throughout the interview Bresy spouted the word “attitude” several times. This was his interpretation of how the music has changed(if only very slightly) His tone throughout the interview was very direct and slightly rebellious. It was as if he was trying to say “F**k all the doubters, this is going to be a great album and we are going to show everyone. There was a very determined stigma attached to his speech. I for one felt quite convinced about the bands future as a result.
I asked what we can expect at the upcoming UL gig. He remarked amongst other things that they will have a brass section new to their shows. Brass and attitude-an intense gig it should be so.
Back for more....
I do apologise for my lack of posting of late but I was on holidays....which was nice for me.
Trapani(in Sicily) is a relaxing sun desination but I could not quite grasp why the Italians dont take pride in their beaches/old streets which are beautiful but are riddled with rubbish. Upon my arrival I was reminded of the Ancient Roman times where rubbish was merely flung on the streets.
Anyway good to be back.....back to the music
Trapani(in Sicily) is a relaxing sun desination but I could not quite grasp why the Italians dont take pride in their beaches/old streets which are beautiful but are riddled with rubbish. Upon my arrival I was reminded of the Ancient Roman times where rubbish was merely flung on the streets.
Anyway good to be back.....back to the music
Friday, August 15, 2008
Best Music Video Ever (according to MTV Two)
I watched MTV Twos rundown of what they percieve the top 100 music videos of a all time were the other night. To be honest I only got to see the top 10 and it demonstrated to me the power that music and film have when in unison.
Which video came first? This one:
I must say this video is spectacular and it is almost impossible for someone not to agree. The movements and lighting synch with the music and the juxtaposition between human nature and robots/computers is sublimely potrayed.
On a side note I couldnt help but wonder about the presenter of the program, Zane Lowe. He presented each video very well, assessing each video with the respect and applaud they deserve. Throughout the hour and a half long program his presenting remained serious and thoughtful as one would expect when dealing with such important forms of art. But when you compare this to his weekly show on a friday night named "Gonzo" he acts the clown. The whole show is "padded" with his pointless ramblings about things like cheese amongst menial discussions about menial bands (the Kooks and all NMEs lovechildren)
The man should stick to his strengths and approach the music as he does best...like an adult.
Which video came first? This one:
I must say this video is spectacular and it is almost impossible for someone not to agree. The movements and lighting synch with the music and the juxtaposition between human nature and robots/computers is sublimely potrayed.
On a side note I couldnt help but wonder about the presenter of the program, Zane Lowe. He presented each video very well, assessing each video with the respect and applaud they deserve. Throughout the hour and a half long program his presenting remained serious and thoughtful as one would expect when dealing with such important forms of art. But when you compare this to his weekly show on a friday night named "Gonzo" he acts the clown. The whole show is "padded" with his pointless ramblings about things like cheese amongst menial discussions about menial bands (the Kooks and all NMEs lovechildren)
The man should stick to his strengths and approach the music as he does best...like an adult.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
yournight.ie
Just got wind of this: www.yournight.ie
YourNight.ie - Ireland's Clubbing & Nightlife TV!
Hello and welcome to the most exciting thing to hit Irish clubbing since electronic music was discovered floating on the shore at Donabate beach one fateful day in the 1980s!
Here at YourNight we will provide you with access to Artist, DJ and VJ spotlights, Event Reviews and Features, Exclusive Interviews, High Quality Club Footage and there's much, much more to come!
Whether you're into House, Techno, Minimal, Trance, Drum and Bass, Reggae or Dubstep, YourNight has it all - on video!
We're covering the clubbing scene all over Ireland - Cork, Dublin, Waterford, Galway, Belfast and beyond.
Create a free account so you can upload some of your own Irish clubbing videos or,
If you're a Promoter, Artist, Label, DJ, VJ or Event Organiser based in Ireland, get in contact to create your own dedicated free channel!
no mention of Limerick in those citys though???
YourNight.ie - Ireland's Clubbing & Nightlife TV!
Hello and welcome to the most exciting thing to hit Irish clubbing since electronic music was discovered floating on the shore at Donabate beach one fateful day in the 1980s!
Here at YourNight we will provide you with access to Artist, DJ and VJ spotlights, Event Reviews and Features, Exclusive Interviews, High Quality Club Footage and there's much, much more to come!
Whether you're into House, Techno, Minimal, Trance, Drum and Bass, Reggae or Dubstep, YourNight has it all - on video!
We're covering the clubbing scene all over Ireland - Cork, Dublin, Waterford, Galway, Belfast and beyond.
Create a free account so you can upload some of your own Irish clubbing videos or,
If you're a Promoter, Artist, Label, DJ, VJ or Event Organiser based in Ireland, get in contact to create your own dedicated free channel!
no mention of Limerick in those citys though???
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Electric Picnic 2008: my 10 to see
The blessed Picnic is nearly two weeks away and I for one am rather excited. The line up doesnt really pack the heavyweights this year and didnt really live up to a few of my line up hopes (Portishead and the Mars Volta namely) but all in all there is some great acts on the bill.
Here the ten acts i really cant wait to see (in no particular order)
Crystal Castles (saw Glasto performance....energetic to say the least)
The Roots
The Herbaliser
Sigur Ros (Eek!)
Chromeo
Benga
The Gutter Twins (Mark Lanegan is immense)
The Dodos
Dan Deacon
Foals (plickity plick plick)
and there is so much more........
Here the ten acts i really cant wait to see (in no particular order)
Crystal Castles (saw Glasto performance....energetic to say the least)
The Roots
The Herbaliser
Sigur Ros (Eek!)
Chromeo
Benga
The Gutter Twins (Mark Lanegan is immense)
The Dodos
Dan Deacon
Foals (plickity plick plick)
and there is so much more........
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Monday, August 11, 2008
A Silver Mt. Zion
Discovered this crowd over in California last summer i really like what they do...eerie and haunting(apocalyptic even) yet immensely beautiful.
They hail from Montreal but never seem to step outside North America for tours....
They hail from Montreal but never seem to step outside North America for tours....
Top 10 Gigs
I have decided to compile a list on this dreary Monday morning of the top 10 gigs that I have ever been to. It all began in 2003 at the Witnness festival at Punchestown and ever since I have encountered some incredible performances in fields,theaters and clubs. So off the top of my head here it is:
(please feel free to add your own lists...)
1. Daft Punk, Greek Theater Berkeley CA 2007
2. Rage Against the Machine , Oxegen 2008
3. The Prodigy , Oxegen 2005
4. Dave Clarke, Witnness 2003
5. Grandmaster Flash, Electric Picnic 2004
6. UNKLE, Electric Picnic 2007
7. Zion Train, Dolans Limerick 2007
8. DJ Yoda, Electric Picnic 2007
9. Queens of the Stone Age, Live 105 BFD San Francisco 2007
10. Antony and the Johnsons, Electric Picnic 2006
(please feel free to add your own lists...)
1. Daft Punk, Greek Theater Berkeley CA 2007
2. Rage Against the Machine , Oxegen 2008
3. The Prodigy , Oxegen 2005
4. Dave Clarke, Witnness 2003
5. Grandmaster Flash, Electric Picnic 2004
6. UNKLE, Electric Picnic 2007
7. Zion Train, Dolans Limerick 2007
8. DJ Yoda, Electric Picnic 2007
9. Queens of the Stone Age, Live 105 BFD San Francisco 2007
10. Antony and the Johnsons, Electric Picnic 2006
Friday, August 8, 2008
Rarely Seen Above Ground....nice
Must say I likes what this guy is doing
His name is Jeremy Hickey and he is from Kilkenny. Check out his myspace for more:
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=128610513
(he is playing the Picnic too!)
His name is Jeremy Hickey and he is from Kilkenny. Check out his myspace for more:
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=128610513
(he is playing the Picnic too!)
Nostalgia
Got this email in work yesterday and thought it would be a nice first topical post....(bit of a read)....
Growing up in Ireland
I'm talking about Hide and Seek in the park. The shop down the road,Hopscotch, Donkey, skipping, handstands, stuck in the mud, football with an old can, Dandy, Beano,Twinkle and Roly Poly, Hula Hoops, Jumping the stream, building a swing from a tyre and a piece of rope tied to atree,(If you live in Dublin the lam post), building tree-houses, climbing up onto roofs.Tennis on the street, the smell of the sun and fresh cut grass.Hubba Bubba bubble gum and 2p Flogs, macaroon bars and woppas, 3p Refreshers and wham bars,superhero chewing gum, golf ball chewing gums and liquorice whips, desperate dan and roy of the rovers,sherbit dips and Mr.freezes, marathon bars and everlasting gobstoppers.An ice cream cone on a warm summer night from the van that plays a tune chocolate or vanillaor strawberry or maybe neopolitanWait ...
Watching Saturday Morning cartoons ... short commercials,Battle of the Planets, Road Runner, He-Man, Swapshop, and Why Don't You?,Transformers, How do you do?, Bosco(SANDY), Forty-coats,The Littlest Hobo and Lassie, Chucklevision, The Muppet Show, MacGyver,Scarecrow and Mrs King, Little House on the Prairie and Highway to Heaven, or staying upfor Knight Rider and Magnum PI.When around the corner seemed far away and going into town seemed like going somewhere.A million midget bites, sticky fingers and mud all over you, knee-pads on your jeans,Cops and Robbers, Rounders, tip the Can, Queenie-I-O,climbing trees, spin the bottle, building igloos out of snow banks,walking to school, no matter what the weather, running till you were out of breath.Laughing so hard that your stomach hurt, Jumping on the bed. Pillow fights,Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for giggles, Being tired from playing... Remember that?
The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team.Water balloons were the ultimate weaponFootball cards in the spokes transformed any bike into a motorcycleAnd don't forget the Marietta sandwiches we'd make by buttering a cupla Marietta biscuits and stickin' them together.And that quare oul mixture made in a tall glass with HB ice cream and Taylor Keith Red Lemonade.I'm not finished just yet...Eating raw jelly, orange squash ice popsRemember when ... There were two types of sneakers - girls and boys and Dunlop Green Flash and the only time you wore them at school, was for 'P.E.', Gola football boots.It wasn't odd to have two or three 'best' friends, when nobody owned a pure bred dog,when 25p was decent pocket money, when you'd reach into a muddy gutter for a penny,when nearly everyone's mum was at home when the kids got there,when it was considered a great privilege to be taken out to dinner at a real restaurant with your parentsWhen any parent could discipline any kid or use him to carry groceries and nobody, not even the kid,thought a thing of it.When being sent to the head's office was nothing compared to the fate that awaited a misbehaving student at home.Basically, we were in fear for our lives but it wasn't because of muggings, drugs, gangs, etc.Our parents and grandpar ents were a much bigger threat! and some of us are still afraid of them!!!
Remember when....Decisions were made by going 'eeny-meeny-miney-mo.' Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, 'do over!''Race issue' meant arguing about who ran the fastest.Money issues were handled by whoever was the banker in 'Monopoly', the game of life andconnect four, atari 2600's and commadore 64's.The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was germs. It was unbelievable that Red rover wasn't an Olympic event..Having a weapon in school, meant being caught with a biro barrel pea shooter or an elastic band.Scrapes and bruises were kissed and made better,Taking drugs meant orange-flavoured chewable vitamins,Ice cream was considered a basic food group.Getting a foot of snow was a dream come true.. Abilities were discovered because of a 'double dare'Older siblings were the worst tormentors,but also the fiercest protectors
brings a tear to the eye
Growing up in Ireland
I'm talking about Hide and Seek in the park. The shop down the road,Hopscotch, Donkey, skipping, handstands, stuck in the mud, football with an old can, Dandy, Beano,Twinkle and Roly Poly, Hula Hoops, Jumping the stream, building a swing from a tyre and a piece of rope tied to atree,(If you live in Dublin the lam post), building tree-houses, climbing up onto roofs.Tennis on the street, the smell of the sun and fresh cut grass.Hubba Bubba bubble gum and 2p Flogs, macaroon bars and woppas, 3p Refreshers and wham bars,superhero chewing gum, golf ball chewing gums and liquorice whips, desperate dan and roy of the rovers,sherbit dips and Mr.freezes, marathon bars and everlasting gobstoppers.An ice cream cone on a warm summer night from the van that plays a tune chocolate or vanillaor strawberry or maybe neopolitanWait ...
Watching Saturday Morning cartoons ... short commercials,Battle of the Planets, Road Runner, He-Man, Swapshop, and Why Don't You?,Transformers, How do you do?, Bosco(SANDY), Forty-coats,The Littlest Hobo and Lassie, Chucklevision, The Muppet Show, MacGyver,Scarecrow and Mrs King, Little House on the Prairie and Highway to Heaven, or staying upfor Knight Rider and Magnum PI.When around the corner seemed far away and going into town seemed like going somewhere.A million midget bites, sticky fingers and mud all over you, knee-pads on your jeans,Cops and Robbers, Rounders, tip the Can, Queenie-I-O,climbing trees, spin the bottle, building igloos out of snow banks,walking to school, no matter what the weather, running till you were out of breath.Laughing so hard that your stomach hurt, Jumping on the bed. Pillow fights,Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for giggles, Being tired from playing... Remember that?
The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team.Water balloons were the ultimate weaponFootball cards in the spokes transformed any bike into a motorcycleAnd don't forget the Marietta sandwiches we'd make by buttering a cupla Marietta biscuits and stickin' them together.And that quare oul mixture made in a tall glass with HB ice cream and Taylor Keith Red Lemonade.I'm not finished just yet...Eating raw jelly, orange squash ice popsRemember when ... There were two types of sneakers - girls and boys and Dunlop Green Flash and the only time you wore them at school, was for 'P.E.', Gola football boots.It wasn't odd to have two or three 'best' friends, when nobody owned a pure bred dog,when 25p was decent pocket money, when you'd reach into a muddy gutter for a penny,when nearly everyone's mum was at home when the kids got there,when it was considered a great privilege to be taken out to dinner at a real restaurant with your parentsWhen any parent could discipline any kid or use him to carry groceries and nobody, not even the kid,thought a thing of it.When being sent to the head's office was nothing compared to the fate that awaited a misbehaving student at home.Basically, we were in fear for our lives but it wasn't because of muggings, drugs, gangs, etc.Our parents and grandpar ents were a much bigger threat! and some of us are still afraid of them!!!
Remember when....Decisions were made by going 'eeny-meeny-miney-mo.' Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, 'do over!''Race issue' meant arguing about who ran the fastest.Money issues were handled by whoever was the banker in 'Monopoly', the game of life andconnect four, atari 2600's and commadore 64's.The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was germs. It was unbelievable that Red rover wasn't an Olympic event..Having a weapon in school, meant being caught with a biro barrel pea shooter or an elastic band.Scrapes and bruises were kissed and made better,Taking drugs meant orange-flavoured chewable vitamins,Ice cream was considered a basic food group.Getting a foot of snow was a dream come true.. Abilities were discovered because of a 'double dare'Older siblings were the worst tormentors,but also the fiercest protectors
brings a tear to the eye
Greetings
Welcome one and all to this merry blog
I hope this blog will aspire to be a place where views can be shared of the worlds musical events of past and present and whatever else that might be worth mentioning
This is the bubblewrap blog....a positive and wholesome place to retreat to away from the madness of the world around us....
...........wrap yourself up or come have a pop of bubblewrap!!!
I hope this blog will aspire to be a place where views can be shared of the worlds musical events of past and present and whatever else that might be worth mentioning
This is the bubblewrap blog....a positive and wholesome place to retreat to away from the madness of the world around us....
...........wrap yourself up or come have a pop of bubblewrap!!!
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