2 reviews of non-screaming ground gigs for you.
The first..
The Lost Levels, Platform one, Collider, Faster than Robots
The waterfront, May 28th
I havent been to the waterfront in quite a while. Memories of it are not the fondest.
I can safely say that that hasnt changed much. Nothing to do with the bands, but more the venue itself. Firstly, its big. Big can mean empty. Secondly, The sound. The God Awful sound. :( Muddy as hell, too much bass throughout and generally not all that.
Anyways.
The night started promisingly enough, considering it was a tilting sky night. It was nice to see Mr. Tilting Sky branching out slightly in his choice of bands. Faster than robots kicked things into gear with a sonic youth/pixies tinged sound, although I have seen this band play better and sound better. Unfortunately they came across as slightly dull, not helped by the lack of guitar in the mix and too much bass. Not a bad band by far, but a little more energy and diversity would be nice.
Collider push their luck. By far the best band of the night in my opinion, but they take a while to get going and their set slumps slightly at the start. Towards the end, it picks up quite a bit of life and pounds it into gear. Most effective use of a nintendo DS Ive seen by a band! Post rock guitar lines steeped with radiohead urges while pushing everything forward with one of the most energetic drummers I have seen. Hugely promising and I for one, want more.
And who said that grunge is dead? No-one told Platform one. Unfortunately.
Coming across like early Queens of the stone age and nevermind era Nirvana with a few, somewhat contrived, effects they bash out a reasonable set, but its nothing new and you get the feeling you have heard it all before. Admittedly, the loud parts are pretty good and the screaming does need work, but its got some punch. Not bad, but not terribly good either.
Lost Levels have something about them which I quite like, but I cant wholely place what. This band also start off slow, with a quite kraftwork look and a doves mixed with most of the 'THE' bands you have heard of. Still though, the mix of guitars and piano is nice. They seem to bring out the big guns slightly too late in their set though, and by this time I have lost a bit of interest. Although, these big guns are pretty big. There is 'That' riff, which you will love, and the 'epic' song at the end.
Not the most inspired night, but a decent blend of treadded ground and new sounds. 6/10.
The second...
Fever Fever (single Launch) with The Brownies, BK and DAD and Cruiser Chimps
The Crypt/Take 5, May 30th
A definate party atmosphere is in the air from the word go in this tiny venue. Its all friends, muffins and alcohol. Cant be bad. Then you realise the bands are playing in what was, literally a crypt. The sound is pretty awful, and that is admitted by all the bands. But as far as sound clarity and acoustics are concerned, thats not what this night, or even this music, is about.
Starting the gig are Cruiser Chimps. 2 parts of the musical party that is Bearsuit I believe, this girl/boy, drum/guitar duo seem to know what they are doing. Art punk played very roughly, with frenzied yelps of vocals and the occasional piece of melody thrown in for good measure. Loud and very proud. Enjoyable.
BK and Dad are a vicious beast. Sometimes slightly unconvincing/overly honest in their experimentalism but always very very loud and very very good. Again, the sound does them no favours, but the expert drumming from Pip and moments of hugely agressive sounding guitars are spot on. You can see (and hear) why they are one of most Norwich's gig goers favourite bands. I just wish they would play more in a nice, simple 4/4 so I can rock out more.
The Brownies are a band whos name I have come across lots but havent had the pleasure of witnessing live before. To my surprise I am massively impressed. Sparring female vocals, joyfully big riffs, blasting drums and pounding bass all come together to create a band who are far more punk than a lot of bands who will openly call themselves punk. The closing song is a highly, with a deliciously catchy and violent streak coming out in the vocals. Which is especially impressive considering the size of the 2 girls which it is coming out of. The first Norwich band I can say that probably live up to the hype around them.
Still though, This is Fever Fever's night. Playing to a heaving rooms which is very much in party mode by this point, they never fail to disappoint. They use this to their favour and punch out a furiously riotous set which is fittingly lapped up. I can only assume the packets of lube which are bring thrown out throughout the set is to aid the movement of anyone who wants a closer look. Massively catchy, dualing female vocals underpin this band, and what with the guitars lacking in volume during their set, they certainly are the focal point. The night is capped off finely with a suitable vicious end and party bags for everyone lucky enough to be in attendance.
Superbly loud, viseral, art punk party of a night. I only wish I had remembered some earplugs! 9/10.
Bam x
Sunday, 31 May 2009
Set Guitars to Kill...
Oh my! :D
Im probably not the best person to review gigs that I actually put on, because Im bound to be biased. But lets recap. (Im probably going to review 2 more gigs Ive been to lately, later.)
Friday. May 22nd. The Marquee.
Lets set the tone. AMAZING.
So, Arcadia lake turn up nice and early, or at least part of them. Good stuff. To my surprise, the 2 headliners turn up shortly after and we breeze through the most painless soundcheck and load in imagineable.
People slowly roll in for Arcadia Lake who are up first and set the tone well for the night, easing everyone into whats to come. Suitably fantastic guitar work, drums and superb vocals (the only ones of the night) all glide together perfectly. And a huge special thanks to Sarah for being able to sing as she is/was having throat problems. So massive effort on their part and massive thanks to go along with it.
BK and DAD take to the stage next and to a pretty full room. Their blazing mix of experimental and lurching rock guitar and probably one of the most talented drummers around knock the volume levels up a notch and impress everyone who hasnt seen them before. The people that have remain just as impressed.
And So I Watch You From Afar saunter onto the stage and proceed in knocking the holy fuck out of every single person. :D Such a good band. So much energy. So many riffs! Basically the loudest single band on the face of the planet (*may not be true of the whole planet). They veer to very nearly upstaging their tour buddies and headliners of the night; Maybeshewill. Luckily, MSW are up to form and continue to blow the audience away with their electonic tinged LOUD-rock. So good to see them enjoying themselves too.
Last time the 2 bands played in norwich, it was a wet monday in october to about 10 people. This time, they had at least 68 very treated gig goers to play to (both bands) and I think they relished the oportunity.
Such. A. Great. Night!
Also, a personal best for a solo promoted gig in terms of turnout. Super :)
So, its sad that that gig is now over and done with, but more things to be going on with. Namely, Tubelord :)
Roll on.
x
Im probably not the best person to review gigs that I actually put on, because Im bound to be biased. But lets recap. (Im probably going to review 2 more gigs Ive been to lately, later.)
Friday. May 22nd. The Marquee.
Lets set the tone. AMAZING.
So, Arcadia lake turn up nice and early, or at least part of them. Good stuff. To my surprise, the 2 headliners turn up shortly after and we breeze through the most painless soundcheck and load in imagineable.
People slowly roll in for Arcadia Lake who are up first and set the tone well for the night, easing everyone into whats to come. Suitably fantastic guitar work, drums and superb vocals (the only ones of the night) all glide together perfectly. And a huge special thanks to Sarah for being able to sing as she is/was having throat problems. So massive effort on their part and massive thanks to go along with it.
BK and DAD take to the stage next and to a pretty full room. Their blazing mix of experimental and lurching rock guitar and probably one of the most talented drummers around knock the volume levels up a notch and impress everyone who hasnt seen them before. The people that have remain just as impressed.
And So I Watch You From Afar saunter onto the stage and proceed in knocking the holy fuck out of every single person. :D Such a good band. So much energy. So many riffs! Basically the loudest single band on the face of the planet (*may not be true of the whole planet). They veer to very nearly upstaging their tour buddies and headliners of the night; Maybeshewill. Luckily, MSW are up to form and continue to blow the audience away with their electonic tinged LOUD-rock. So good to see them enjoying themselves too.
Last time the 2 bands played in norwich, it was a wet monday in october to about 10 people. This time, they had at least 68 very treated gig goers to play to (both bands) and I think they relished the oportunity.
Such. A. Great. Night!
Also, a personal best for a solo promoted gig in terms of turnout. Super :)
So, its sad that that gig is now over and done with, but more things to be going on with. Namely, Tubelord :)
Roll on.
x
Thursday, 21 May 2009
Calm before the storm.
Long break between posts! Completely unintentional. Busy times and things to do. But lets update.
Jeniferever gig = Good. All was well. Codes were awesome. Maths were awesome. Caesura were great. Jeni were subdued, but good. Decent turn out too, for the first day (a tuesday) after the easter bank holiday.
Anyway, twas a good night.
SUCIOPERRO. Fuck. :D Amazing.
Basically, this gig was such a massive pain in my balls from the start; With finding supports and whatnot. 3 days before the gig, Into Flight had to pull out, due to a (now) ex band member being a douche. But Cest le vie. The ever lovely Fullwater filled in as first support and all was well again.. Untill the day before, Sucio's Van broke down outside Birmingham, meaning they missed thier Leeds gig that night. ruh oh...
5 o clock. Wednesday. I recieve a phone call:
"Hey, Jez?"
Hello, Yep?
"Hi, Stuart from sucioperro... I dont know if you know, but our van broke down yesterday.. (Massive sick feeling)
Well... (Stomach falls to feet)
Just wanted to let you know, we fixed it and we're on our way" (I shed a tear of joy)
.
So, 7.45, Sucio turn up at the Marquee. Ive never seen such a quick, painless load in, set up and sound check. 8.30, Fullwater hit the stage, to an adequet crowd. Nice.
9.15: Hair Traffic Control take up second support and frankly blow me away again, as well as a nicely filled room.
10.25: After a drum change over and set up, Sucio take to the stage also to a nicely filled room and proceed in stomping the audience into pulp! Superb, absolutely. People were singing, dancing, actually moving and being right up to the stage! Now thats impressive. JP even managed a little rock star moment over some Mic issues at Paul (the sound guy and head honcho of the music at the Marquee), But it was all taken pretty lightly. A fantastic 45 minute set, And they graciously bow out with 'Crushing of the little people' and leave everyone in the room pretty pleased.
Plus they seemed to really appriciate the pain agency cake and sandwiches my brilliant girlfriend had made them. Super nice guys, all the way through. Was kinda sad I couldnt just hang out with them all more. Still though.
Great night. And a great turn out for a wednesday! My wallet didnt suffer, just.
So.
Next up, as in tomorrow, I am hosting a pretty astounding line up: Mayebshewill, And So I Watch You From Afar, Bk and Dad and Arcadia Lake.
... I KNOW! :D
Have heard quite a few people speak positively of this gig, so that bodes well. I just want the bands to have a super turnout for them to play to, after last time playing to all of 15-20 people on a wet, cold, monday night. Pretty positive we can do better than that!
So yeah, super excited for that :)
In other news, In June... On the 26th to be precise, I, along with safetydance, will be playing host to darwin and the dinosaur, hair traffic control, Maths and.... TUBELORD. Win!
s'gonna be pretty magic. Heres the poster:
Tastey.
July will play host to Screaming Ground Fest. Also Exciting! But more on that next time..
So, I feel thats pretty updated. As always, Keep checking the myspace: www.myspace.com/screamingground and things.
Roll on tomorrow!
x
Jeniferever gig = Good. All was well. Codes were awesome. Maths were awesome. Caesura were great. Jeni were subdued, but good. Decent turn out too, for the first day (a tuesday) after the easter bank holiday.
Anyway, twas a good night.
SUCIOPERRO. Fuck. :D Amazing.
Basically, this gig was such a massive pain in my balls from the start; With finding supports and whatnot. 3 days before the gig, Into Flight had to pull out, due to a (now) ex band member being a douche. But Cest le vie. The ever lovely Fullwater filled in as first support and all was well again.. Untill the day before, Sucio's Van broke down outside Birmingham, meaning they missed thier Leeds gig that night. ruh oh...
5 o clock. Wednesday. I recieve a phone call:
"Hey, Jez?"
Hello, Yep?
"Hi, Stuart from sucioperro... I dont know if you know, but our van broke down yesterday.. (Massive sick feeling)
Well... (Stomach falls to feet)
Just wanted to let you know, we fixed it and we're on our way" (I shed a tear of joy)
.
So, 7.45, Sucio turn up at the Marquee. Ive never seen such a quick, painless load in, set up and sound check. 8.30, Fullwater hit the stage, to an adequet crowd. Nice.
9.15: Hair Traffic Control take up second support and frankly blow me away again, as well as a nicely filled room.
10.25: After a drum change over and set up, Sucio take to the stage also to a nicely filled room and proceed in stomping the audience into pulp! Superb, absolutely. People were singing, dancing, actually moving and being right up to the stage! Now thats impressive. JP even managed a little rock star moment over some Mic issues at Paul (the sound guy and head honcho of the music at the Marquee), But it was all taken pretty lightly. A fantastic 45 minute set, And they graciously bow out with 'Crushing of the little people' and leave everyone in the room pretty pleased.
Plus they seemed to really appriciate the pain agency cake and sandwiches my brilliant girlfriend had made them. Super nice guys, all the way through. Was kinda sad I couldnt just hang out with them all more. Still though.
Great night. And a great turn out for a wednesday! My wallet didnt suffer, just.
So.
Next up, as in tomorrow, I am hosting a pretty astounding line up: Mayebshewill, And So I Watch You From Afar, Bk and Dad and Arcadia Lake.
... I KNOW! :D
Have heard quite a few people speak positively of this gig, so that bodes well. I just want the bands to have a super turnout for them to play to, after last time playing to all of 15-20 people on a wet, cold, monday night. Pretty positive we can do better than that!
So yeah, super excited for that :)
In other news, In June... On the 26th to be precise, I, along with safetydance, will be playing host to darwin and the dinosaur, hair traffic control, Maths and.... TUBELORD. Win!
s'gonna be pretty magic. Heres the poster:
Tastey.
July will play host to Screaming Ground Fest. Also Exciting! But more on that next time..
So, I feel thats pretty updated. As always, Keep checking the myspace: www.myspace.com/screamingground and things.
Roll on tomorrow!
x
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Mayday!
Busy busy busy May is coming up.
2 big shows for me, within 10 days of eachother. Should be interesting :D
Well, I filled the slot at the sucioperro show with the awesome Into Flight, which will be hugely interesting :D Now lets hope I get enough people in on a wednesday to break even. If not, it could be getting expensive...
Also, hugely excited about the other may gig. Maybeshewill and And So I Watch You From Afar. Also may end up being expensive but hopefully Ill break even on this one too. It is a friday and Arcadia Lake and Bk and Dad are awesome and people know about them, so people should come :) Plus the 2 headliners will rock everyones face, so if people know whats good for them, they will be there.
Still, its getting pretty stressfull thinking about it. I dont like having money involved at the best of times, but when its a large ammount, it worries me a lot.
I only ever plan to break even at shows. Basically if 50 people turn up at each, then thats everything covered. If more turn up then there will be a little more for each of the bands.
Theres a little incite into being a promoter. Its not all fun and poster making! :D (as if anyone ever thought it would be).
Speaking of posters:
:D
Jeniferever on Tuesday with Woody :) Should be awesome! Im not really in doubt of having enough people turn up, although you never can tell. But I would think the turn out will be good :)
Sad news: The Queen Charlotte is losing its ability to have live music as of next week due to noise regulations seriously facepalming them. :( Luckily, The Jeni gig is still going ahead, and so is one that Ian of Power up Promotions is putting on on Thursday. But thats it. Bye Bye another good Norwich venue.
Fuck.
I went to a gig at a place called Unit 5 the other week. Its basically a.. unit.. in an industrial bit behind anglia square in Norwich. It was Bring Your Own Booze too. It was pretty amazing :D A superb turnout (I would say.. 70-100 people) and a good night was had by all! A band I cant remember the name of, A Bear, BK and DAD and Hair Traffic Control all played and it was badge only entry. Good times!
Might be a viable gig location in the future, who knows. I would say turn outs could be hugely variable there though. As is anywhere!
Jesus.
So yeah. May May May! Marquee Marquee Marquee. Lots of fun I hope. And not to hard on my bank account I also hope. Its lame that that is the thing Im thinking about right now. I want to be hugely excited (I am) but Im filled with nerves. A month today. Lets get the placed RAMMMED!
Jeniferever, Caesura, Codes In the Clouds, Maths. Tuesday the 14th April. The Queen Charlotte, Norwich. Be there or be LAME.
x
2 big shows for me, within 10 days of eachother. Should be interesting :D
Well, I filled the slot at the sucioperro show with the awesome Into Flight, which will be hugely interesting :D Now lets hope I get enough people in on a wednesday to break even. If not, it could be getting expensive...
Also, hugely excited about the other may gig. Maybeshewill and And So I Watch You From Afar. Also may end up being expensive but hopefully Ill break even on this one too. It is a friday and Arcadia Lake and Bk and Dad are awesome and people know about them, so people should come :) Plus the 2 headliners will rock everyones face, so if people know whats good for them, they will be there.
Still, its getting pretty stressfull thinking about it. I dont like having money involved at the best of times, but when its a large ammount, it worries me a lot.
I only ever plan to break even at shows. Basically if 50 people turn up at each, then thats everything covered. If more turn up then there will be a little more for each of the bands.
Theres a little incite into being a promoter. Its not all fun and poster making! :D (as if anyone ever thought it would be).
Speaking of posters:
:D
Jeniferever on Tuesday with Woody :) Should be awesome! Im not really in doubt of having enough people turn up, although you never can tell. But I would think the turn out will be good :)
Sad news: The Queen Charlotte is losing its ability to have live music as of next week due to noise regulations seriously facepalming them. :( Luckily, The Jeni gig is still going ahead, and so is one that Ian of Power up Promotions is putting on on Thursday. But thats it. Bye Bye another good Norwich venue.
Fuck.
I went to a gig at a place called Unit 5 the other week. Its basically a.. unit.. in an industrial bit behind anglia square in Norwich. It was Bring Your Own Booze too. It was pretty amazing :D A superb turnout (I would say.. 70-100 people) and a good night was had by all! A band I cant remember the name of, A Bear, BK and DAD and Hair Traffic Control all played and it was badge only entry. Good times!
Might be a viable gig location in the future, who knows. I would say turn outs could be hugely variable there though. As is anywhere!
Jesus.
So yeah. May May May! Marquee Marquee Marquee. Lots of fun I hope. And not to hard on my bank account I also hope. Its lame that that is the thing Im thinking about right now. I want to be hugely excited (I am) but Im filled with nerves. A month today. Lets get the placed RAMMMED!
Jeniferever, Caesura, Codes In the Clouds, Maths. Tuesday the 14th April. The Queen Charlotte, Norwich. Be there or be LAME.
x
Thursday, 2 April 2009
S'all Business.
Right, I havent updated for a while so lets get a handle on the gigs situation.
Coming I have:
:::Tuesday 14th April - The Queen Charlotte:::
Screaming Ground and Safetydance present:
Jeniferever
Caesura
Codes In The Clouds
Maths
£5 in advance.
http://www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk/events/jeniferever.aspx
:::Wednesday 13th May - The Marquee:::
Screaming Ground and Safetydance present:
Sucioperro
(TBC)
Hair Traffic Control
£5 in advance.
:::Friday 22nd May - The Marquee:::
Screaming Ground Presents:
MAYBESHEWILL
AND SO I WATCH YOU FROM AFAR
BK AND DAD
ARCADIA LAKE
£4 on the door.
Thats all the definates right now. The (TBC) on the Sucioperro date will be filled shortly and there will be posters and flyers and tickets and all sorts. Exciting!
As you can probably tell, 2/3 of those gigs are with Safetydance. This is a good thing. The way I see it is that it gets me lots of experience with only half the risk and I get to work with bigger bands and bigger shows, all while doing solo Screaming Ground gigs too. Plus it helps Woody out big time, which is a pleasure.
Hopefully there will be some pretty exciting things coming up with the Co-Promotion... Watch this space.
In other news, I am proud to announce that there will be the first ' SCREAMING GROUND FEST ' this summer :D It will be taking place in July for one whole day at the marquee, featuring a bunch of awesome bands and you will be able to witness it all for about £3. probably. :D
More on that when things are sorted out. Im just pretty stressed about May right now :( *le sigh*
But its all good fun!
Support your scene!! And make it what you want :)
x
Coming I have:
:::Tuesday 14th April - The Queen Charlotte:::
Screaming Ground and Safetydance present:
Jeniferever
Caesura
Codes In The Clouds
Maths
£5 in advance.
http://www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk/events/jeniferever.aspx
:::Wednesday 13th May - The Marquee:::
Screaming Ground and Safetydance present:
Sucioperro
(TBC)
Hair Traffic Control
£5 in advance.
:::Friday 22nd May - The Marquee:::
Screaming Ground Presents:
MAYBESHEWILL
AND SO I WATCH YOU FROM AFAR
BK AND DAD
ARCADIA LAKE
£4 on the door.
Thats all the definates right now. The (TBC) on the Sucioperro date will be filled shortly and there will be posters and flyers and tickets and all sorts. Exciting!
As you can probably tell, 2/3 of those gigs are with Safetydance. This is a good thing. The way I see it is that it gets me lots of experience with only half the risk and I get to work with bigger bands and bigger shows, all while doing solo Screaming Ground gigs too. Plus it helps Woody out big time, which is a pleasure.
Hopefully there will be some pretty exciting things coming up with the Co-Promotion... Watch this space.
In other news, I am proud to announce that there will be the first ' SCREAMING GROUND FEST ' this summer :D It will be taking place in July for one whole day at the marquee, featuring a bunch of awesome bands and you will be able to witness it all for about £3. probably. :D
More on that when things are sorted out. Im just pretty stressed about May right now :( *le sigh*
But its all good fun!
Support your scene!! And make it what you want :)
x
Monday, 23 March 2009
Broken Chord Can Sing a Little..
Monday nights are pretty lame. I was planning to go to a gig but I have little money. I feel quite bad about it though, because there was a gig tonight and one tomorrow, and Really, I can only afford to go to one at the minute. :( At least Ill probably go to one tomorrow (Hair traffic control, Kinema and the Tupelov (sp?) ghost.)
Tonight I missed Collider and fullwater, and 2 other bands. I feel doubly bad because Im friends with both those bands :D I will see them next time though. Im just rubbish. Sorry guys.
I spent most of my evening playing God Of War. Its still pretty good. I saw my last save was in 2006. haha. Still though, after 2 1/2 hours, I called that a day.
I would just like to take a minute to talk about how amazing A Silver Mt Zion are. Or at least, the one album I really like of theres; "He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms" by A Silver Mount Zion. After this its not been quite as good IMO, but this album is probably my favourite album ever. It was the point I realised that music was a lot more than just the normal thing. It really is a piece of art in musical form. I would almost go as far to say that it is my favourite album, ever. But that is a big thing to say. Lets leave it at its my favourite album at the moment (the moment being the last few years). I think it will hold up over the years and I can say in 10, 20, 30 years time (if Im still around) that it is still my favourite album.
Its strange because I wouldnt listen to it all the time, I would go months without listening to it. But its still one of the best things Ive heard.
The concept of the album... I use cncept loosely... is that it is an Ode to a band members dog that died while they were on tour. You get the idea of the tone of the album then?
I am going to post a link to download this album at the bottom of this post. Im am pretty sure the band wouldnt mind this. BUT, I do really suggest that if you like it, then buy it, if you can, on Vinyl. I thought I had it on vinyl but it turns out I dont. This will be rectified when I have the monies.
If you cant, then buy a different album by them, or an album by godspeed (Skinny fists or Yanqui UXO if you want my opinion) and support them in some way.
(If you didnt know, ASMZ are an off shoot of Godspeed You Black Emperor.)
The thing about post rock is the majority of it is the same, I think. Technically, all build up and release kinda thing. But thats why I hate the term Post-Rock. I dont like a lot of post rock bands, as I do find them samey. I will say that Im not overly a fan of Explosions in the sky or Mogwai. But I am a fan of Godspeed and Mono. I would say that these 4 are 'THE' post rock bands. Im not overly sure why I dont really like EITS or Mogwai, but nothing really grasps me. I hevent heard all their stuff though. Maybe thats the problem.
Then again I havent heard all of Mono's music, but I much prefer them.
Godspeed, I think, are much more like classical music but done alternatively, using some guitars and things, but not just guitar part layered on guitar layered on guitar etc etc. Technically thats what a lot of monos music is too, but its done better by them IMO.
Its all personal preference anyways. The ".. shafts of light.." album by ASMZ isnt exactly post rock. Im not sure what it is. Other than amazing. Listen to it in the dark, when you are feeling a little sad and it will destroy you, in the best way possible. Its not often an album will do that, but it is amazing when it does.
Give it a spin:
He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms
Positivity is pretty over rated sometimes.
x
Tonight I missed Collider and fullwater, and 2 other bands. I feel doubly bad because Im friends with both those bands :D I will see them next time though. Im just rubbish. Sorry guys.
I spent most of my evening playing God Of War. Its still pretty good. I saw my last save was in 2006. haha. Still though, after 2 1/2 hours, I called that a day.
I would just like to take a minute to talk about how amazing A Silver Mt Zion are. Or at least, the one album I really like of theres; "He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms" by A Silver Mount Zion. After this its not been quite as good IMO, but this album is probably my favourite album ever. It was the point I realised that music was a lot more than just the normal thing. It really is a piece of art in musical form. I would almost go as far to say that it is my favourite album, ever. But that is a big thing to say. Lets leave it at its my favourite album at the moment (the moment being the last few years). I think it will hold up over the years and I can say in 10, 20, 30 years time (if Im still around) that it is still my favourite album.
Its strange because I wouldnt listen to it all the time, I would go months without listening to it. But its still one of the best things Ive heard.
The concept of the album... I use cncept loosely... is that it is an Ode to a band members dog that died while they were on tour. You get the idea of the tone of the album then?
I am going to post a link to download this album at the bottom of this post. Im am pretty sure the band wouldnt mind this. BUT, I do really suggest that if you like it, then buy it, if you can, on Vinyl. I thought I had it on vinyl but it turns out I dont. This will be rectified when I have the monies.
If you cant, then buy a different album by them, or an album by godspeed (Skinny fists or Yanqui UXO if you want my opinion) and support them in some way.
(If you didnt know, ASMZ are an off shoot of Godspeed You Black Emperor.)
The thing about post rock is the majority of it is the same, I think. Technically, all build up and release kinda thing. But thats why I hate the term Post-Rock. I dont like a lot of post rock bands, as I do find them samey. I will say that Im not overly a fan of Explosions in the sky or Mogwai. But I am a fan of Godspeed and Mono. I would say that these 4 are 'THE' post rock bands. Im not overly sure why I dont really like EITS or Mogwai, but nothing really grasps me. I hevent heard all their stuff though. Maybe thats the problem.
Then again I havent heard all of Mono's music, but I much prefer them.
Godspeed, I think, are much more like classical music but done alternatively, using some guitars and things, but not just guitar part layered on guitar layered on guitar etc etc. Technically thats what a lot of monos music is too, but its done better by them IMO.
Its all personal preference anyways. The ".. shafts of light.." album by ASMZ isnt exactly post rock. Im not sure what it is. Other than amazing. Listen to it in the dark, when you are feeling a little sad and it will destroy you, in the best way possible. Its not often an album will do that, but it is amazing when it does.
Give it a spin:
He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms
Positivity is pretty over rated sometimes.
x
Sunday, 22 March 2009
ATTACK! ATTACK! ATTACK! ATTACK!
Slow sundays. Well, technically its been a busy sunday, but it feels slow. I finished recording a new song today for my New ep that I'll be releasing over the summer. Awesome.
Other than that though, Slow sunday.
Oh... Apart from I booked another show. SUCIOPERRO! :D Wednesday May 13th. The Marquee. Support tbc. £5. All amazing. Lets hope this does well. Woody will be helping but has other commitments that week, but he will be sorting the press and things, which is awesome.
Anyways. A gig I went to.
I went out Saturday to B2 of all places. The reason I did this was because 2 awesome bands were playing; Kunk and Fever Fever. Apparently it was the 'RED STRIPE' awards or competition or something. Fuck knows how they chose the bands, but I guess 2 good calls and 2 not so good ones isnt all bad. hah!
Also playing were 2 other bands. I cant remember the name of the first band but they were pretty slick. Not my cup of tea, but good at what they do.
Fever Fever played second and were fantabulous as always. Seriously love that band. Plus when greeted with a few boos by some unruley looking women (more on that in a minute) they heralded the immortal phrases "I booed your mum" and "yeah, well I FUCKED your mum last night, and she loved it". Both of which were amazing. Some sound issues dogged their set, but other than that, seriously good.
A band I had never heard of played next. Their name was canine feline or something. I didnt really see much of their set, but apparently they had a guitarst whose fretboard lit up. ... Less said the better. From what I heard though, they were pretty bland pop rock. Yawn. The main thing that put me off was the sheer ammount of horendous women-that-look-like-slash-want-to-be-men come with them. Fair enough, Im pretty open minded, but when there are a load of manly women yobbing it up and shouting generally, ignoring the other bands, talking through their sets and booing etc. I mean jesus. Be polite! I didnt like the band they came to see, I went outside. Awful.
Kunk headlined. Opening with an amazing driving riff which was supoib. They have the songs, the presence, and ability. Awesome band. The 'new song' which Hannah, their bassist sings is one of their best in my opinion; It has the most incredible riff for a chorus. Great band.
Also generally chatted and schmooozed with people, promoting it up (flyers and shizz) and things. Some people even recognised me as Ndx, which was nice :)
I do like it at B2, but its so far out of town, it really puts me off putting on gigs there. Nice place though, alright sound, really lovely staff :) But it was a saturday night and the turnout wasnt amazing. Enough, but not amazing. And it was free entry. Ah well.
Anyways, thats about it for now. (oh the title refers to a Kunk song by the way :D)
Night all
x
Other than that though, Slow sunday.
Oh... Apart from I booked another show. SUCIOPERRO! :D Wednesday May 13th. The Marquee. Support tbc. £5. All amazing. Lets hope this does well. Woody will be helping but has other commitments that week, but he will be sorting the press and things, which is awesome.
Anyways. A gig I went to.
I went out Saturday to B2 of all places. The reason I did this was because 2 awesome bands were playing; Kunk and Fever Fever. Apparently it was the 'RED STRIPE' awards or competition or something. Fuck knows how they chose the bands, but I guess 2 good calls and 2 not so good ones isnt all bad. hah!
Also playing were 2 other bands. I cant remember the name of the first band but they were pretty slick. Not my cup of tea, but good at what they do.
Fever Fever played second and were fantabulous as always. Seriously love that band. Plus when greeted with a few boos by some unruley looking women (more on that in a minute) they heralded the immortal phrases "I booed your mum" and "yeah, well I FUCKED your mum last night, and she loved it". Both of which were amazing. Some sound issues dogged their set, but other than that, seriously good.
A band I had never heard of played next. Their name was canine feline or something. I didnt really see much of their set, but apparently they had a guitarst whose fretboard lit up. ... Less said the better. From what I heard though, they were pretty bland pop rock. Yawn. The main thing that put me off was the sheer ammount of horendous women-that-look-like-slash-want-to-be-men come with them. Fair enough, Im pretty open minded, but when there are a load of manly women yobbing it up and shouting generally, ignoring the other bands, talking through their sets and booing etc. I mean jesus. Be polite! I didnt like the band they came to see, I went outside. Awful.
Kunk headlined. Opening with an amazing driving riff which was supoib. They have the songs, the presence, and ability. Awesome band. The 'new song' which Hannah, their bassist sings is one of their best in my opinion; It has the most incredible riff for a chorus. Great band.
Also generally chatted and schmooozed with people, promoting it up (flyers and shizz) and things. Some people even recognised me as Ndx, which was nice :)
I do like it at B2, but its so far out of town, it really puts me off putting on gigs there. Nice place though, alright sound, really lovely staff :) But it was a saturday night and the turnout wasnt amazing. Enough, but not amazing. And it was free entry. Ah well.
Anyways, thats about it for now. (oh the title refers to a Kunk song by the way :D)
Night all
x
Wednesday, 18 March 2009
This is not revolution rock...
Not a huge ammount to say tonight. But I have been productive today. Firstly, there is a facebook group for the Jeniferever gig. Linked below:
www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=60977037101
Also, I made this poster for Del of 'This Is Not Revolution Rock' promotions in Kingston (London, not Jamaica.)
:D
I dont know if anyone from around that area reads this blog, but if you do, go to that gig.
Night all. x
www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=60977037101
Also, I made this poster for Del of 'This Is Not Revolution Rock' promotions in Kingston (London, not Jamaica.)
:D
I dont know if anyone from around that area reads this blog, but if you do, go to that gig.
Night all. x
Tuesday, 17 March 2009
Its such a simple plan...
Friday the 13th. Red Nose Day (apparently), I was aware but completely forgot.
I had a pretty busy day of CD making and flyer cutting out. Turned up for the gig and Bambi were already sound checking. Superb. I love it when bands know what they are doing. Paul wasnt having such a great time though.. It would seem all the Mics wanted to not work. But he fixed them and got everyone soundchecked and all was awesome. I think the total count of gig goers was 53, which isnt bad at all :D Awesome turn out!
Review:
Fullwater kicked off the gig with awesome tone and promising songs. They really delivered a stonking set of american style indie rock/emo in the proper way ala American Football/the Appleseedcast et al. Keep an eye on these guys though, they should be destined for big things if this gig was anything to go by. Fever Fever were up next and to be honest blew everyone away! Second time I've seen them, second time I have been thoroughly impressed. Such a good band. I could watch them for hours. Brilliant stage presence and they really do have an awesome set of songs, much more suited live than on record. Their ethos of 'just crank it up to full' is exactly what I like.
Portman took to the stage third. Starting their set to a diminished crowd didnt diminish their spirits and they completely played their hearts out. The crowd filled out though and they won over a good bunch of new friends for the night. Great guys and great songs. I like to have some variety in the gigs I put on and these guys certainly brought it. And they played my favourite song of theirs for me. Listen to it on thier myspace - "We Are Nihilists Labowski". Awes.
Bambi Get Over It completed the gig to a full room, including dancing people, and absolutely nailed it. What an awesome band :D Also they had a good negative chat about a certain label named 'Milkbar' mid-set, which put a huge smile on my face! They played their songs, entertained and entralled, Finishing the night on a complete high.
So that was awesome :D It really was a great gig. Thank yous go to all bands, Paul, and everyone that came! Amy soapbox was taking photos of the night, so they should surface at somepoint. Lets hope that people enjoyed it so much, they will come to all the Screaming Ground gigs from now often :) That would be super!
The bands that played have been linked in the above review, so keep checking their myspaces and such for gigs to go see them. They deserve your support :)
Ill post a new blog in a few days time probably about upcoming things and such. But just to say quickly, The Next Screaming ground gig is a co-promote with Woody again :)
Safetydance and Screaming Ground Proudly present:
Jeniferever
Caesura
Maths
Codes In The Clouds
Tuesday 14th April
The Queen Charlotte
8pm £tbc.
Super.
Watch LOST. Do it. DO IT.
x
I had a pretty busy day of CD making and flyer cutting out. Turned up for the gig and Bambi were already sound checking. Superb. I love it when bands know what they are doing. Paul wasnt having such a great time though.. It would seem all the Mics wanted to not work. But he fixed them and got everyone soundchecked and all was awesome. I think the total count of gig goers was 53, which isnt bad at all :D Awesome turn out!
Review:
Fullwater kicked off the gig with awesome tone and promising songs. They really delivered a stonking set of american style indie rock/emo in the proper way ala American Football/the Appleseedcast et al. Keep an eye on these guys though, they should be destined for big things if this gig was anything to go by. Fever Fever were up next and to be honest blew everyone away! Second time I've seen them, second time I have been thoroughly impressed. Such a good band. I could watch them for hours. Brilliant stage presence and they really do have an awesome set of songs, much more suited live than on record. Their ethos of 'just crank it up to full' is exactly what I like.
Portman took to the stage third. Starting their set to a diminished crowd didnt diminish their spirits and they completely played their hearts out. The crowd filled out though and they won over a good bunch of new friends for the night. Great guys and great songs. I like to have some variety in the gigs I put on and these guys certainly brought it. And they played my favourite song of theirs for me. Listen to it on thier myspace - "We Are Nihilists Labowski". Awes.
Bambi Get Over It completed the gig to a full room, including dancing people, and absolutely nailed it. What an awesome band :D Also they had a good negative chat about a certain label named 'Milkbar' mid-set, which put a huge smile on my face! They played their songs, entertained and entralled, Finishing the night on a complete high.
So that was awesome :D It really was a great gig. Thank yous go to all bands, Paul, and everyone that came! Amy soapbox was taking photos of the night, so they should surface at somepoint. Lets hope that people enjoyed it so much, they will come to all the Screaming Ground gigs from now often :) That would be super!
The bands that played have been linked in the above review, so keep checking their myspaces and such for gigs to go see them. They deserve your support :)
Ill post a new blog in a few days time probably about upcoming things and such. But just to say quickly, The Next Screaming ground gig is a co-promote with Woody again :)
Safetydance and Screaming Ground Proudly present:
Jeniferever
Caesura
Maths
Codes In The Clouds
Tuesday 14th April
The Queen Charlotte
8pm £tbc.
Super.
Watch LOST. Do it. DO IT.
x
Thursday, 12 March 2009
Crushed by the weight of enourmous bullshit.
Basically, Im not having a good week. Ive had a bizzare cold since friday which while not being completely debiliating with coughs and sneezes, leaves me feeling pretty awful all the time. Which isnt fun. Also, just to moan self-centeredly for a second, my musical efforts dont seem to be going anywhere and I think I might just have a break from doing anything Ndx related for a while.
I also have an job interview coming up, basically because Im 22 and need to grow up. Massive lolz. :(
I've just been feeling pretty worthless this week. Hopefully this feeling will pass.
In non-screaming ground related gig news, Ive found out about this thing happening in Norwich around the start of July called Hot City Sounds. I believe its being organized by Kingsley Harris, who was/is the NR1 records dude.
I guess its exciting. I mean, its full of bands that I dont like or havent heard of, so it must be good, right?...
Buried In Pompeii and BK and DAD are playing shows for it so it cant be all bad. I'd go along and see them if I were you. Im probably selling it short.. My boy My girl are playing. So are Fever Fever. Sadly not all at one gig but 4 different ones, which are all padded out with stuff which is apparently popular, so I would guess you will see a lot of 14-18 year olds wearing crotch destroying jeans and thier grandads cardigans.
Hah, I sound so bitter. Im not. It's a good thing for the city and at least there is some diversity in the line ups. Good work Kingsley, hope it all goes well.
In other news. The May 22nd line up has changed. It will now be Maybeshewill, (The amazing) And So I Watch You From Afar, BK and DAD and Arcadia Lake. (Ndx is dropped from the line up, because I dont want to promote a 5 band line up which will have to start early, basically.) But to be honest, I would love to get the Marquee packed out with people for this show! Not only to have the 2 amazing local bands play to loads and loads of people, but imagine what will happen when ASIWYFA and Maybeshewill kick off thier sets to a full room. Fucking Chaos! :D of the best kind! If I can get the place full, that will seriously be amazing. By which I need everyone to come. Thats right. EVERYONE. I want the marquee to be the fullest I have ever seen it. All 4 bands deserve it.
Anyways. Tomorrow its Bambi get over it, portman, fever x2 and Fullwater. So it should be awesome :) Im looking forward to it anyway.
"You're not scared, but you've still got your eyes closed." :'Adava Kadavra' by The Age Of Rockets
x
I also have an job interview coming up, basically because Im 22 and need to grow up. Massive lolz. :(
I've just been feeling pretty worthless this week. Hopefully this feeling will pass.
In non-screaming ground related gig news, Ive found out about this thing happening in Norwich around the start of July called Hot City Sounds. I believe its being organized by Kingsley Harris, who was/is the NR1 records dude.
I guess its exciting. I mean, its full of bands that I dont like or havent heard of, so it must be good, right?...
Buried In Pompeii and BK and DAD are playing shows for it so it cant be all bad. I'd go along and see them if I were you. Im probably selling it short.. My boy My girl are playing. So are Fever Fever. Sadly not all at one gig but 4 different ones, which are all padded out with stuff which is apparently popular, so I would guess you will see a lot of 14-18 year olds wearing crotch destroying jeans and thier grandads cardigans.
Hah, I sound so bitter. Im not. It's a good thing for the city and at least there is some diversity in the line ups. Good work Kingsley, hope it all goes well.
In other news. The May 22nd line up has changed. It will now be Maybeshewill, (The amazing) And So I Watch You From Afar, BK and DAD and Arcadia Lake. (Ndx is dropped from the line up, because I dont want to promote a 5 band line up which will have to start early, basically.) But to be honest, I would love to get the Marquee packed out with people for this show! Not only to have the 2 amazing local bands play to loads and loads of people, but imagine what will happen when ASIWYFA and Maybeshewill kick off thier sets to a full room. Fucking Chaos! :D of the best kind! If I can get the place full, that will seriously be amazing. By which I need everyone to come. Thats right. EVERYONE. I want the marquee to be the fullest I have ever seen it. All 4 bands deserve it.
Anyways. Tomorrow its Bambi get over it, portman, fever x2 and Fullwater. So it should be awesome :) Im looking forward to it anyway.
"You're not scared, but you've still got your eyes closed." :'Adava Kadavra' by The Age Of Rockets
x
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