There are certain things I seem to enjoy planning about my Birthday. One of them is my make up (I'm thinking bronze) but no one wants to hear about that, so I'm going to do my birthday playlist. Admittedly, I'm just having a few friends over (thanks for asking) but I like to pick what songs I'm listening to that day. Or, this could be a "Sweet 16" plan if they finally decide to ring up my mam and dad. However, this seems unlikely, so let's get on to the playlist...
> Reflektor // Arcade Fire
I only recently discovered this beauty and it could be love.
> Unhappy Birthday // The Smiths
Despite the overwhelming message of having a terrible day because you're a horrible person, I think it could work...
> Suffragette City // David Bowie
Yeah this is turning into more of a list of my favourite songs
> Bloodshake // Peace
Guaranteed to wake up any swine and force them out of bed. IN THE FOREST OF ARDEN.
> Taken For A Fool // The Strokes
A guaranteed embarrassing dance will occur
> Johnny Bagga Donuts // Palma Violets
Oops more dancing....
> Introspection // MGMT
SO SWIRLY
> Rusholme Ruffians // The Smiths
Sweet rhythms...
> Morning Crumble // Holidays
Dreamy spaced out melodies for yo ears.
> Ode To Viceroy // Mac DeMarco
This song will make you fall over it's so swishy...
> Cornerstone // Arctic Monkeys
I have no words....
> Rock And Roll // The Velvet Underground
This song makes me insanely happy
> Music To Walk Home By // Tame Impala
THAT GUITAR RIFFF AT THE END MAN
> You Won't Be The Same // TOY
There seems to be a slightly psych theme today...
> Lydia, The Ink Will never Dry // Maximo Park
Like syrup to the ears...
Leave me your song suggestions below because I'm having a crisis when it comes to new music.
Lots of love, Paige x x x
Showing posts with label Paige. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Paige. Show all posts
Sunday, 2 March 2014
Sunday, 16 February 2014
Celebration of 30 years of The Smiths' debut
Nothing I ever write can express my love for the four seemingly normal boys from Manchester. The meeting of 22 year old Steven Patrick Morrissey and 18 year old Johnny Marr at Kings Road, Stretford in the May of '82 is one of the most iconic encounters in rock history. Releasing their self titled debut 20th February 1984, it only seems fair to celebrate the 30th birthday of what has to be one of the best Smiths albums.
Their similar tastes and ultimately, their influences, were so similar it would've seemed impossible for the two to not be so in sync. Marr has given respect to his mum for allowing him to "Analyse music properly. See how it worked" in a 2009 interview with him here. Morrissey's love for artists such as The New York Dolls, Patti Smith, The Velvet Underground and Iggy and The Stooges contrasted perfectly with Marr's love for the likes of T.Rex, Bowie and The rolling Stones, meaning they were a pretty perfect pairing, each of them being brought up on a selective diet of 60's singles.
Johnny brought in bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce, and the four-piece unit is assembled. In Morrissey's "Autobiography" he talks of their long touring stint, when "a Smiths coterie forms in every British city" - a far cry from the come-and-go synth-pop of the decade.
Signing to Rough trade, they released three oh-so famous singles - "Hand In Glove" "This Charming Man" and "What Difference Does It Make?". Many consider that their performance of the latter two tracks on Top Of The Pops in November of 1983 helped them rise to the glory they rode on for most of the 80's, as it gave bored teenagers everywhere something to be inspired by everywhere; in a rather similar fashion to Bowie's performance of "Starman" in 1972 on the same programme, where other bored teenagers thought "Bloody hell. he's good." Only this time, 'The Smiths' would be the buzz word for not only that decade, but for the future generations to lap up.
I often think of a world without The Smiths, and my instant reaction is "Oh god no." While I find it near impossible to deliver a distinct reason as to why living without their constant comfort in the form of 4 beautiful albums and the unforgettable "Hatful Of Hollow" which by rights should be classified as an album of its accord - a total entity of well crafted production, powerful vocals and enough emotion to make anyone feel as though they've got at least 4 Manchester lads on their side. Arguably, a love of The Smiths has to be earned, with their total wealth of lyrical and sonic material, often hidden with initially, quite lighthearted imagery, (tracks like "This Charming Man" and "The Hand That Rocks The Cradle" must be noted here). It seems easy to pick up a best of album and utter in a wholly non-committal fashion "I quite like them", but delve deeper into the twinkling rhythm section, glorious guitars and of course, the brooding lyrics, and you are effectively hooked for life on the eternally flowering world of Smithdom.
Their debut closer "Suffer Little Children" is one that shows Morrissey's pure vocal power and his unadulterated skill at harnessing someone's emotion and making everyone with a brain larger than that of a fly to feel some form of psychological torment, with his capacity to suddenly change tone and emotionally and make it sound unbelievably ethereal. Personally, my favourite track from this album has to be "Hand In Glove". Oooooh mama, as soon as that grand sprinkling of harmonica begins, my legs turn to jelly and my brain becomes a load of romantic mush. For all those that say The Smiths are an entirely unromantic, depressive 'movement' well... bugger off, I don't care for people like you. Personally, Hand In Glove is an ode to not just the people you love, but the emotion of love itself; how every little thing someone can do consumes all your time and desire and basically your body as a 'thing-that-feels-stuff'.
What strikes me as downright fascinating about this album is it's ability to change tone very quickly, while keeping a sense of seamlessness throughout all of the tracks. Most notably, third-on-the-album track "Miserable Lie" begins very slowly with a meandering quality, with a seemingly limited amount of space to move anywhere else, but BOY does it move, without sounding in any way messy, through the use of snarling guitars and increasingly strengthening vocals that build and build. Also, how could I forget about "Pretty Girls Make Graves". The music takes on a steady feel while Morrissey's vocals build to the background of Mike and Andy's rhythm section, both merging perfectly to create a perfectly formed track.
Fellow Smiths fans will hopefully all wear some form of memorabilia on the day of the 30th anniversary, as a sign of the immutable bond between all those who sit in their bedrooms and devote their lives to these four lads from Manchester. These four lads who managed to sum up a veritable catalogue of emotions and events in such a beautiful way that it seems nearby impossible to ever forget the first moment you heard them. For me, the first Smiths song I genuinely became infatuated with was "This Charming Man". I am under the view that up until this point in my life, I had never experienced something that sounded so magical but at the same time felt very real. I quickly developed a fixation on all of their work, lives and of course, their tragic demise in '87 (*sigh*). To sound incredibly cliché, The Smiths have got me through much of my teenage years, yes. They marked some of my favourite ever moments and of course, the unalloyed crap-ness of the other 70%.
Fellow FIBLAR writer Molly also speaks fondly of the first album...
"I got The Smiths' debut on vinyl for Christmas last year from my brother, despite the shameful fact that as far as I know, I'm the only one in my family who likes them. Although it's not my favourite Smiths album, and Morrissey himself doesn't like the way it was produced, it is most certainly a piece of art in the form of a beautifully crafted record, and the success born from it was completely deserved. Happy 30th."
Admittedly, the production wasn't as crisp as their subsequent albums; the likes of "The Queen Is Dead" became so famous and well loved for that reason. However, the wondrous thing about Smithdom is that all of their albums stir up such a multitude of sensations in the listeners mind that it is more or less impossible to choose a favourite album. Nonetheless, "The Smiths" will always be one of my favourites, because it's them as a strong unit, showcasing some of their most coveted songs and overall, has such a beautiful raw sound aided by the sprinkling guitars and Morrissey's syrupy vocals that deems it virtually other-worldly.
Long live The Smiths. Happy 30th anniversary to one of the most beautiful albums of all time.
"Stay Handsome Forever"
Paige x x x
PS. The good life is out there somewhere so stay on my arm you little charmer
Their similar tastes and ultimately, their influences, were so similar it would've seemed impossible for the two to not be so in sync. Marr has given respect to his mum for allowing him to "Analyse music properly. See how it worked" in a 2009 interview with him here. Morrissey's love for artists such as The New York Dolls, Patti Smith, The Velvet Underground and Iggy and The Stooges contrasted perfectly with Marr's love for the likes of T.Rex, Bowie and The rolling Stones, meaning they were a pretty perfect pairing, each of them being brought up on a selective diet of 60's singles.
Johnny brought in bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce, and the four-piece unit is assembled. In Morrissey's "Autobiography" he talks of their long touring stint, when "a Smiths coterie forms in every British city" - a far cry from the come-and-go synth-pop of the decade.
Signing to Rough trade, they released three oh-so famous singles - "Hand In Glove" "This Charming Man" and "What Difference Does It Make?". Many consider that their performance of the latter two tracks on Top Of The Pops in November of 1983 helped them rise to the glory they rode on for most of the 80's, as it gave bored teenagers everywhere something to be inspired by everywhere; in a rather similar fashion to Bowie's performance of "Starman" in 1972 on the same programme, where other bored teenagers thought "Bloody hell. he's good." Only this time, 'The Smiths' would be the buzz word for not only that decade, but for the future generations to lap up.
I often think of a world without The Smiths, and my instant reaction is "Oh god no." While I find it near impossible to deliver a distinct reason as to why living without their constant comfort in the form of 4 beautiful albums and the unforgettable "Hatful Of Hollow" which by rights should be classified as an album of its accord - a total entity of well crafted production, powerful vocals and enough emotion to make anyone feel as though they've got at least 4 Manchester lads on their side. Arguably, a love of The Smiths has to be earned, with their total wealth of lyrical and sonic material, often hidden with initially, quite lighthearted imagery, (tracks like "This Charming Man" and "The Hand That Rocks The Cradle" must be noted here). It seems easy to pick up a best of album and utter in a wholly non-committal fashion "I quite like them", but delve deeper into the twinkling rhythm section, glorious guitars and of course, the brooding lyrics, and you are effectively hooked for life on the eternally flowering world of Smithdom.
Their debut closer "Suffer Little Children" is one that shows Morrissey's pure vocal power and his unadulterated skill at harnessing someone's emotion and making everyone with a brain larger than that of a fly to feel some form of psychological torment, with his capacity to suddenly change tone and emotionally and make it sound unbelievably ethereal. Personally, my favourite track from this album has to be "Hand In Glove". Oooooh mama, as soon as that grand sprinkling of harmonica begins, my legs turn to jelly and my brain becomes a load of romantic mush. For all those that say The Smiths are an entirely unromantic, depressive 'movement' well... bugger off, I don't care for people like you. Personally, Hand In Glove is an ode to not just the people you love, but the emotion of love itself; how every little thing someone can do consumes all your time and desire and basically your body as a 'thing-that-feels-stuff'.
What strikes me as downright fascinating about this album is it's ability to change tone very quickly, while keeping a sense of seamlessness throughout all of the tracks. Most notably, third-on-the-album track "Miserable Lie" begins very slowly with a meandering quality, with a seemingly limited amount of space to move anywhere else, but BOY does it move, without sounding in any way messy, through the use of snarling guitars and increasingly strengthening vocals that build and build. Also, how could I forget about "Pretty Girls Make Graves". The music takes on a steady feel while Morrissey's vocals build to the background of Mike and Andy's rhythm section, both merging perfectly to create a perfectly formed track.
Fellow Smiths fans will hopefully all wear some form of memorabilia on the day of the 30th anniversary, as a sign of the immutable bond between all those who sit in their bedrooms and devote their lives to these four lads from Manchester. These four lads who managed to sum up a veritable catalogue of emotions and events in such a beautiful way that it seems nearby impossible to ever forget the first moment you heard them. For me, the first Smiths song I genuinely became infatuated with was "This Charming Man". I am under the view that up until this point in my life, I had never experienced something that sounded so magical but at the same time felt very real. I quickly developed a fixation on all of their work, lives and of course, their tragic demise in '87 (*sigh*). To sound incredibly cliché, The Smiths have got me through much of my teenage years, yes. They marked some of my favourite ever moments and of course, the unalloyed crap-ness of the other 70%.
Fellow FIBLAR writer Molly also speaks fondly of the first album...
"I got The Smiths' debut on vinyl for Christmas last year from my brother, despite the shameful fact that as far as I know, I'm the only one in my family who likes them. Although it's not my favourite Smiths album, and Morrissey himself doesn't like the way it was produced, it is most certainly a piece of art in the form of a beautifully crafted record, and the success born from it was completely deserved. Happy 30th."
Admittedly, the production wasn't as crisp as their subsequent albums; the likes of "The Queen Is Dead" became so famous and well loved for that reason. However, the wondrous thing about Smithdom is that all of their albums stir up such a multitude of sensations in the listeners mind that it is more or less impossible to choose a favourite album. Nonetheless, "The Smiths" will always be one of my favourites, because it's them as a strong unit, showcasing some of their most coveted songs and overall, has such a beautiful raw sound aided by the sprinkling guitars and Morrissey's syrupy vocals that deems it virtually other-worldly.
Long live The Smiths. Happy 30th anniversary to one of the most beautiful albums of all time.
"Stay Handsome Forever"
Paige x x x
PS. The good life is out there somewhere so stay on my arm you little charmer
Sunday, 9 February 2014
Maximo Park Newcastle instore gigs 8/2/13
Over the past couple of weeks, various free instores were announced by Maximo Park for three of my favourite places in Newcastle - RPM music (@RPMMusic), Reflex Records (@REFLEX_CD_VINYL ) and HMV (@hmvNewcastle). So, equipped with only an alpen bar and a cluth of their records, myself and a good friend Katie venture into the city centre for a good spell of stalking and being cold.
First of all was Reflex records, a treasure trove of all things vinyl. The band set up behind the counter, so bearing in mind this shop isn't the biggest, it was certainly an 'intimate' gig! Considering that they had only had three hours sleep (they had been on German television the night before) the audience got a great performance of "Leave This Island" from their new "Too Much Information" album which was released last Monday. A synth driven track which was performed with equal pacy vigour live, Smith delivered strong vocals, only made better by the connection with the audience that grew quickly through only one song; there was no non-committal vague eye contact with the audience, much unlike many gigs in certainly larger venues.
After the performance, the band offered to sign their records. When I stated "there isn't a lot of room for your names on the CD" Paul took it upon himself to draw round the random ink fingerprints that had appeared ("little footprints"), to which I thought "I could just tell everyone this is a special edition version" (Antiques Roadshow in 50 years here I come).
Next up was their gig at RPM, performing two songs from their new album - "Lydia, The Ink Will Never Dry" and "Her Name Was Audre" the latter of which; despite it obviously being different on the album, kept the raw and speed-driven feeling due to the impromptu nature of the performance (the band only decided to play it last minute). Once again, the performance was only enhanced by how close we are and the banter between the band and the crowd - most memorably, the (no-so) terrifying notion of being locked in when the door stopped opening and Smith's comments on a record with a somewhat questionable graphics team (Who would decide to put a fly on the front of a record sleeve?) After getting another CD signed (they were lovely), it was off to HMV for the final instore of the day...
Performing a longer set at HMV, the band also acquired a larger crowd than the other two performances. However, the banter remained as they played a rip roaring set of 6 tracks, from old favourites of "Signal And Sign" and "By The Monument" to new track like "Midnight On The Hill" and "Brain Cells".
Sipping a hot chocolate along the way ("Rock and roll") Smith claimed that if everyone bought the album, we could push Beyoncé "off her perch... Hopefully she'll have a soft landing." Cheeky swine.
After all that general rambling (makes a vast amount of difference from the norm doesn't it!?!?!) I better go and get some horrendous history essay of some description finished...
Lots of love, Paige x x x
First of all was Reflex records, a treasure trove of all things vinyl. The band set up behind the counter, so bearing in mind this shop isn't the biggest, it was certainly an 'intimate' gig! Considering that they had only had three hours sleep (they had been on German television the night before) the audience got a great performance of "Leave This Island" from their new "Too Much Information" album which was released last Monday. A synth driven track which was performed with equal pacy vigour live, Smith delivered strong vocals, only made better by the connection with the audience that grew quickly through only one song; there was no non-committal vague eye contact with the audience, much unlike many gigs in certainly larger venues. After the performance, the band offered to sign their records. When I stated "there isn't a lot of room for your names on the CD" Paul took it upon himself to draw round the random ink fingerprints that had appeared ("little footprints"), to which I thought "I could just tell everyone this is a special edition version" (Antiques Roadshow in 50 years here I come).
Next up was their gig at RPM, performing two songs from their new album - "Lydia, The Ink Will Never Dry" and "Her Name Was Audre" the latter of which; despite it obviously being different on the album, kept the raw and speed-driven feeling due to the impromptu nature of the performance (the band only decided to play it last minute). Once again, the performance was only enhanced by how close we are and the banter between the band and the crowd - most memorably, the (no-so) terrifying notion of being locked in when the door stopped opening and Smith's comments on a record with a somewhat questionable graphics team (Who would decide to put a fly on the front of a record sleeve?) After getting another CD signed (they were lovely), it was off to HMV for the final instore of the day...
Performing a longer set at HMV, the band also acquired a larger crowd than the other two performances. However, the banter remained as they played a rip roaring set of 6 tracks, from old favourites of "Signal And Sign" and "By The Monument" to new track like "Midnight On The Hill" and "Brain Cells".
Sipping a hot chocolate along the way ("Rock and roll") Smith claimed that if everyone bought the album, we could push Beyoncé "off her perch... Hopefully she'll have a soft landing." Cheeky swine.
After all that general rambling (makes a vast amount of difference from the norm doesn't it!?!?!) I better go and get some horrendous history essay of some description finished...
Lots of love, Paige x x x
Sunday, 2 February 2014
Februrary playlist
Ah February, you old swine. As much as I have a limited quantity of violent feelings towards this time of year, it always feels as though it is a rather confused month. Everyone seems to recognise January as being the worst month of the 12, despite the fact that some nice things actually happen (my dad's birthday, for example). Because February often feels neither here nor there, I am personally left feeling quite melancholic, for several reasons - first of all it is still freezing cold, furthermore, it is still spine-breakingly freezing cold (I rest my slightly frozen metaphorical case). Therefore, in my frankly "mmmm lists" centred brain, I have taken it upon myself to create a playlist in order to make you feel like you could take on the world (or even go outside for the first time all weekend!) Also, seeing as Andrew VanWyngarden's birthday was yesterday (frontman of MGMT, all round good-egg) there will be a few tracks of theirs rightfully featured.
> Brian Eno // MGMT
It wouldn't be a Sunday playlist without this gem of psychedelic wonder. An ode to the synth master himself, it's quirky and energetic, with a strong beat and the odd twinkling synth to keep your desire for beautiful melodies satisfied for approx 4 minutes 32 seconds (NB: Times depend on the frequency of you replaying the last minute)
> Colours To Life // Temples
Another suitably uplifting and trippy wonder from Kettering golden boys, this track contains enough lo-fi whirring noises and spaced-out moments of glittering guitars that should at least guarantee you'll get out of bed on a Monday morning...
> Get off Of My Cloud // The Rolling Stones
"HEY HEY YOU YOU GET OFF OF MY CLOUD!" enough said.
> Best friend // The Drums
Admittedly, this isn't the most gladdening of songs for a supposedly 'cheery' playlist. Complete with tale of lost friends and a moping Johnny Pierce in full brooding mode, it seems unlikely that it would enliven even the most optimistic soul. However, the music behind the dark lyrics is quite the opposite; a jangly rhythm that pushes the song along with the aid of an angular bass line that somehow makes the emotional wreck that is my mind-set experience a temporary window of happiness.
> Morning Crumble // Holidays
Gently whirling guitars and a strong bass line with softly delivered lyrics makes you feel like you're on 'holiday' (wow appropriate) and engaging in some romance not to dissimilar to those badly acted out in rom coms. A clear winner for making you want to get up and "do stuff" (#lifelessons).
> Kooks // David Bowie
Reportedly written for his son, 'Kooks' for me, is essentially an ode to childhood belonging and feeling like your parents could do anything and everything for you, until the crushing moment when you realise that they're only human, and they can't hit your ex-boyfriend in the face for you. The score has just the right tempo for a bit of head-bobbing-and-old-man-foot-tapping to occur. "IF YOU STAY WITH US YOU'RE GONNA BE PRETTY KOOKY TOO."
> Your Life Is A Lie // MGMT
It would initially seem that this song is telling you that everything in your life is done with utter distaste, but on closer inspection, it feels like an ode to getting out of a boring life. It's a bit of a self esteem booster, as though you're being told to leave your boring house in a boring street and go and do something half interesting. Deal with it, folks.
> Can't Buy Me Love // The Beatles
What could a supposedly 'happy' playlist be without the 1964 classic?
> Dreamin // Mac DeMarco
Cymbals have managed to make this song so very 60's it seems like the 60's couldn't have created this track. Although it's slow and wandering qualities give it a feeling of desolation at times, it has enough contrasting moments of light to make you feel like a hip New Yorker when you walk around school.
> Ask // The smiths
"SHYNESS CAN STOP YOU FROM DOING ALL THE THINGS IN LIFE YOU'D LIKE TO" Anything I write about this would ruin it for myself and everyone else, it is simply too pretty for human words.
> Surf Bitches // Best Friends
"I WANNA BUILD A PEPPERMINT ISLAND" Lo-Fi vocals and guitar riffs are delivered in the style of FIDLAR, while a stronger driving force behind the music to give it a pacier feel remains. A New favourite.
I hope that some of these songs will help you face February and beyond. What are your favourite tracks for this time of year?
Lots of love, Paige x x x
> Brian Eno // MGMT
It wouldn't be a Sunday playlist without this gem of psychedelic wonder. An ode to the synth master himself, it's quirky and energetic, with a strong beat and the odd twinkling synth to keep your desire for beautiful melodies satisfied for approx 4 minutes 32 seconds (NB: Times depend on the frequency of you replaying the last minute)
> Colours To Life // Temples
Another suitably uplifting and trippy wonder from Kettering golden boys, this track contains enough lo-fi whirring noises and spaced-out moments of glittering guitars that should at least guarantee you'll get out of bed on a Monday morning...
> Get off Of My Cloud // The Rolling Stones
"HEY HEY YOU YOU GET OFF OF MY CLOUD!" enough said.
> Best friend // The Drums
Admittedly, this isn't the most gladdening of songs for a supposedly 'cheery' playlist. Complete with tale of lost friends and a moping Johnny Pierce in full brooding mode, it seems unlikely that it would enliven even the most optimistic soul. However, the music behind the dark lyrics is quite the opposite; a jangly rhythm that pushes the song along with the aid of an angular bass line that somehow makes the emotional wreck that is my mind-set experience a temporary window of happiness.
> Morning Crumble // Holidays
Gently whirling guitars and a strong bass line with softly delivered lyrics makes you feel like you're on 'holiday' (wow appropriate) and engaging in some romance not to dissimilar to those badly acted out in rom coms. A clear winner for making you want to get up and "do stuff" (#lifelessons).
> Kooks // David Bowie
Reportedly written for his son, 'Kooks' for me, is essentially an ode to childhood belonging and feeling like your parents could do anything and everything for you, until the crushing moment when you realise that they're only human, and they can't hit your ex-boyfriend in the face for you. The score has just the right tempo for a bit of head-bobbing-and-old-man-foot-tapping to occur. "IF YOU STAY WITH US YOU'RE GONNA BE PRETTY KOOKY TOO."
> Your Life Is A Lie // MGMT
It would initially seem that this song is telling you that everything in your life is done with utter distaste, but on closer inspection, it feels like an ode to getting out of a boring life. It's a bit of a self esteem booster, as though you're being told to leave your boring house in a boring street and go and do something half interesting. Deal with it, folks.
> Can't Buy Me Love // The Beatles
What could a supposedly 'happy' playlist be without the 1964 classic?
> Dreamin // Mac DeMarco
Cymbals have managed to make this song so very 60's it seems like the 60's couldn't have created this track. Although it's slow and wandering qualities give it a feeling of desolation at times, it has enough contrasting moments of light to make you feel like a hip New Yorker when you walk around school.
> Ask // The smiths
"SHYNESS CAN STOP YOU FROM DOING ALL THE THINGS IN LIFE YOU'D LIKE TO" Anything I write about this would ruin it for myself and everyone else, it is simply too pretty for human words.
> Surf Bitches // Best Friends
"I WANNA BUILD A PEPPERMINT ISLAND" Lo-Fi vocals and guitar riffs are delivered in the style of FIDLAR, while a stronger driving force behind the music to give it a pacier feel remains. A New favourite.
I hope that some of these songs will help you face February and beyond. What are your favourite tracks for this time of year?
Lots of love, Paige x x x
Sunday, 19 January 2014
Super cool people what I like
This post is more a form of unadulterated self indulgence than a legitimate excuse for a Sunday post, but let me explain. I have several eye watering inducing exams coming up and as music is the true hero at getting you to forget about all your problems (!) I thought I'd write a little bit about what bangin' chooons I'm loving at the moment...
Happy Anniversary by Best Friends
The Sheffield 4 piece have been recommended to me on several occasions and I'm glad I took the initiative to listen to then because they're wonderful. "Happy Anniversary" provides aprox. 3-and-a-half minutes of blissful wanderings and a nice spattering of rowdy guitars and drums that provide enough of an edge to make you think the style could completely and very suddenly change, while retaining the swirling, head-bobbing-along feel that I have grown to love them for.
Holy By Frightened Rabbit
Scottish rockers got my heart a-racing with this track off their early-2013 album "Pedestrian Verse". This track begins with a feeling it's going to be relaxed, until the music builds up with the aid of a wonderful bass and drum arrangement, which allows it to have a raw feel without feeling in any way unrefined. The amount of accolades they've received, there really isn't much of a point in trying to tell you why I love them, but I do, so I will tell you (so there).
Nightmare by Guards
I discovered New York three piece Guards when they were supporting MGMT on their recent UK 2013 tour. After hearing two songs, I went and bought their album straightaway from the merch stand and continued to wave my arms at them like a nutter. The track begins with a strong opening of rich bass and swirling vocals. It develops into a Tame Impala-esque stomp with a sway and melody that is perfect for getting your groove down.
What tracks are you loving at the moment? (Let me know if you can be bothered).
Lots of Love, Paige x x x
Happy Anniversary by Best Friends
The Sheffield 4 piece have been recommended to me on several occasions and I'm glad I took the initiative to listen to then because they're wonderful. "Happy Anniversary" provides aprox. 3-and-a-half minutes of blissful wanderings and a nice spattering of rowdy guitars and drums that provide enough of an edge to make you think the style could completely and very suddenly change, while retaining the swirling, head-bobbing-along feel that I have grown to love them for.
Holy By Frightened Rabbit
Scottish rockers got my heart a-racing with this track off their early-2013 album "Pedestrian Verse". This track begins with a feeling it's going to be relaxed, until the music builds up with the aid of a wonderful bass and drum arrangement, which allows it to have a raw feel without feeling in any way unrefined. The amount of accolades they've received, there really isn't much of a point in trying to tell you why I love them, but I do, so I will tell you (so there).
Nightmare by Guards
I discovered New York three piece Guards when they were supporting MGMT on their recent UK 2013 tour. After hearing two songs, I went and bought their album straightaway from the merch stand and continued to wave my arms at them like a nutter. The track begins with a strong opening of rich bass and swirling vocals. It develops into a Tame Impala-esque stomp with a sway and melody that is perfect for getting your groove down.
What tracks are you loving at the moment? (Let me know if you can be bothered).
Lots of Love, Paige x x x
Sunday, 12 January 2014
"Don't forget the songs that made you cry"
Anyone who has known me for approximately 2 minutes will have gathered that I am a hopeless romantic in one of the worst ways. Therefore, the notion of never discovering an artist that you hold so deeply in every cell of your heart, is an utterly tragic story that brings a tear to my eye. This might sound another very basic (if you're thinking this - well done - you have discovered how fundamentally basic my brain is; gold star) but stay with me...
I can remember the exact moments I first heard my favourite songs. Admittedly, I wouldn't fall in love with the entire song at first, but there was a definite spark. A certain chord or the way the music moved very suddenly and unexpectedly would simply blow me away. A named example of this would be This Charming Man by The Smiths. The introductory sparkle to a band who would become my rock. A tale of such a beautiful boy in a spot of bother, with Morrissey guiding along an ambiguous understanding as he projected, slurred and groaned about how gruesome it was that "someone so handsome should care". I was fascinated and I was hooked for life.
Although it seems simple to say that if you'd never heard that song you would be unaware of it so you would also be unaware of the effect it would've had. However, just imagine the effect of an artist on you being taken away. Those times you have "lay in awe on your bedroom floor" never happened. That song never soundtracked your relationship and eventual tragic break up. That song never comforted you when no one else stood by you. So just think of it not existing!?
Despite the fact it seems I have taken this topic slightly to far, it is scary to think how different you would be if you hadn't found your favourite artist. Personally, the music you like directly effects your opinions on particular issues, the clothes you wear, even the way you talk and do your hair and who you hang around with, but because it seems that these songs have always been there with you, you have never noticed a difference or change apart from the first ground-breaking moment you heard it.
To try and sum up this potentially rambling post (I'll let you be the judge of that) never forget the songs that saved your life (concluding pun - complete).
To try and sum up this potentially rambling post (I'll let you be the judge of that) never forget the songs that saved your life (concluding pun - complete).
Happy Sunday, Paige x x x
Sunday, 5 January 2014
New Year Better Music
After the slump that we often feel in the new year, after the frankly excessive nature of the festive season, it is always good to hear some great new tunes to get you back on track for your various January engagements (incl. Sitting at home and stalking twitter).... Here we go!
Everything Is Dancing by FAIR OHS
The London outfit made up of frontman Eddy Frankel, bassist Matt Lewendon and drummer Joe Ryan, have created an album "Jungle Cats" full of swirling, upbeat rhythms. This track retains their classic tropical esque vibe while bringing in moments of indie wonder, with many of their bouncy melodies being of a similar feel to the likes of songs from Jaws, The Drums and Peace. Check them out if you need cheering up or want to get in the mood for dancing like a nutter.
Pretty Neat by YRRS
Brighton duo YRRS have created a song so full of energy it could quite possibly cause your grandma to fall off her chair and start moshing. 'Pretty Neat' has a raw, punky feel not too different to the attitudes of recent scuzz heroes FIDLAR. Although it has a raw downbeat sound, there is plenty of contrast of lighter, more melodic moments and a few nice "ooh ooh ooh's" to give a balanced sound. Essentially, this song is guaranteed to get everyone going mental; what's not to love?
Hazy Dayz by Yoofs
Bournemouth duo Michael-James and Richard Dent give the first few seconds of this song a swirling 60's psychedelic sound with what sounds like a trippy keyboard wig out. The sound then quickly morphs into some funky bass with a laid back drum beat guaranteed to get everyone slinking weirdly around the room, while keeping the 'hazy' feel evidenced in the song title itself. However, fear ye not, for the music picks up with a Tame Impala esque higher pitched vocal and more garage-like scuzz and a pacy feel not dissimilar from the rumbling psych brought by the likes of SPLASHH. A little beauty, basically.
Into The Night by Blaenavon
Hampshire three piece Blaenavon have captured my heart with the upbeat 'Into the night'. Full of lively bass and an uplifting use of cymbals to give the song an anthemic feel (it seems very well suited to a festival audience). However, the lively rhythm works well with the strongly delivered vocals of frontman Ben Gregory, which add a whole new level to an already wonderful piece of music.
Hope the New Year is as fabulous as you are.
Paige x x x
Everything Is Dancing by FAIR OHS
The London outfit made up of frontman Eddy Frankel, bassist Matt Lewendon and drummer Joe Ryan, have created an album "Jungle Cats" full of swirling, upbeat rhythms. This track retains their classic tropical esque vibe while bringing in moments of indie wonder, with many of their bouncy melodies being of a similar feel to the likes of songs from Jaws, The Drums and Peace. Check them out if you need cheering up or want to get in the mood for dancing like a nutter.
Pretty Neat by YRRS
Brighton duo YRRS have created a song so full of energy it could quite possibly cause your grandma to fall off her chair and start moshing. 'Pretty Neat' has a raw, punky feel not too different to the attitudes of recent scuzz heroes FIDLAR. Although it has a raw downbeat sound, there is plenty of contrast of lighter, more melodic moments and a few nice "ooh ooh ooh's" to give a balanced sound. Essentially, this song is guaranteed to get everyone going mental; what's not to love?
Hazy Dayz by Yoofs
Bournemouth duo Michael-James and Richard Dent give the first few seconds of this song a swirling 60's psychedelic sound with what sounds like a trippy keyboard wig out. The sound then quickly morphs into some funky bass with a laid back drum beat guaranteed to get everyone slinking weirdly around the room, while keeping the 'hazy' feel evidenced in the song title itself. However, fear ye not, for the music picks up with a Tame Impala esque higher pitched vocal and more garage-like scuzz and a pacy feel not dissimilar from the rumbling psych brought by the likes of SPLASHH. A little beauty, basically.
Into The Night by Blaenavon
Hampshire three piece Blaenavon have captured my heart with the upbeat 'Into the night'. Full of lively bass and an uplifting use of cymbals to give the song an anthemic feel (it seems very well suited to a festival audience). However, the lively rhythm works well with the strongly delivered vocals of frontman Ben Gregory, which add a whole new level to an already wonderful piece of music.
Hope the New Year is as fabulous as you are.
Paige x x x
Sunday, 29 December 2013
New Year's Eve playlist
It's that time of year again; when everyon descends into someone's living room to countdown the end of one year and the beginning of another. There are many motives for people going to a new Years Eve party - potential boyfriends/girlfriends, alcohol, bad dancing, party poppers, dressing up and all that jazz. In order to get you in the mood for the potentially awkward nature of festive gatherings, here is a playlist full of 'feel good' (to an extent...) music, not the usual chart bollocks, to get you in the mood for a full on do or a one-person rave in your bedroom...
> Trying To Be cool // Phoenix
Strut past your ex whilst this is playing. Thank me later.
> Who Needs You // The Orwells
The angsty Chicago rockers give you a perfect drum beat to go mental too.
> Undercover Of Darkness // The Strokes
Effortless
> Brian Eno // MGMT
This ode to ultimate synth god provides a tonne of weird noises to get down to.
> Dr. Greenthumb // Cypress Hill
Hip Hop legends. THE BASS, SERIOUSLY MAN IT COULDN'T BE ANY MORE WONDERFUL.
> No.1 Party Anthem // Arctic Monkeys
Nice and sleazy
> Golden Years // David Bowie
"I'LL STICK WITH YOU BABY FOR A THOUSAND YEARS"
> Johnny Bagga Donuts // Palma Violets
The end is perfect for a good ol' singalong
> Roxette // Dr. Feelgood
You go up to that girl/boy you like, go on....
> Expectation // Tame Impala
Bringing a bit off psychedelic fuzz into proceedings
> Mystery Man // The Strypes
Gives you another chance to get dancing near the object of your secret affections.
> This Must Be The Place Naive Melody // Talking Heads
Sing this in someone's face and you're guaranteed to get their number (maybe... depends on how cool they are).
> Brianstorm // Arctic Monkeys
*Everyone goes a bit mental*
> Welcome To The Terrordome // Public Enemy
Gets everyone moving
> Precious // The Jam
A slowed down beauty to get a bit of awkward dancing going on
Now all that's left to do put on your nicest item of clothing (perhaps do something jazzy to your hair?) and enjoy yourself, you cat.
Lots of love and happy 2014
Paige x x x
> Trying To Be cool // Phoenix
Strut past your ex whilst this is playing. Thank me later.
> Who Needs You // The Orwells
The angsty Chicago rockers give you a perfect drum beat to go mental too.
> Undercover Of Darkness // The Strokes
Effortless
> Brian Eno // MGMT
This ode to ultimate synth god provides a tonne of weird noises to get down to.
> Dr. Greenthumb // Cypress Hill
Hip Hop legends. THE BASS, SERIOUSLY MAN IT COULDN'T BE ANY MORE WONDERFUL.
> No.1 Party Anthem // Arctic Monkeys
Nice and sleazy
> Golden Years // David Bowie
"I'LL STICK WITH YOU BABY FOR A THOUSAND YEARS"
> Johnny Bagga Donuts // Palma Violets
The end is perfect for a good ol' singalong
> Roxette // Dr. Feelgood
You go up to that girl/boy you like, go on....
> Expectation // Tame Impala
Bringing a bit off psychedelic fuzz into proceedings
> Mystery Man // The Strypes
Gives you another chance to get dancing near the object of your secret affections.
> This Must Be The Place Naive Melody // Talking Heads
Sing this in someone's face and you're guaranteed to get their number (maybe... depends on how cool they are).
> Brianstorm // Arctic Monkeys
*Everyone goes a bit mental*
> Welcome To The Terrordome // Public Enemy
Gets everyone moving
> Precious // The Jam
A slowed down beauty to get a bit of awkward dancing going on
Now all that's left to do put on your nicest item of clothing (perhaps do something jazzy to your hair?) and enjoy yourself, you cat.
Lots of love and happy 2014
Paige x x x
Sunday, 22 December 2013
A FIBLAR Christmas...
It's Christmas day at the FIBLAR HQ flat and the team were tucked up in their beds after a late night of writing their upcoming posts, their laptops still whirring quietly beside them. A loud smashing sound came out of no where and woke everyone up - the team soon realised Paige had moved her arm and her half full bottle of gin had fallen off her bedside table and smashed on the wooden floor.
"You daft slag!" Came a shout from underneath the covers. Laura had woke up with a start from the commotion and knew the culprit would most likely be Paige. The next person to wake up was Molly, who instantly jumped out of bed and went towards the tree, sorting out all the badly wrapped presents beneath it ready for when everyone woke up.
The team rose out of their bunk beds and walked towards the neatly sorted presents in a zombie-like manor, all still half asleep and hungover from the party the night before.
"Can we open them right now?" Avalon asked excitedly.
"Of course." Georgie smiled, kneeling down to open her present.
"I'm gonna go make us all some coffee or something." Charlie smiled, drifting out the room to the kitchen.
"It's just as well! We all need it and you can't open your gift 'til we've all opened ours!" Connor shouted at him.
Laura, walking into the room in a festive outfit of dressing gown and elf socks, squealed as her present from Calum turned out to be a Telgram t shirt that she had been after all year. "OH MY GOD THANK YOU SO MUCH" she said, hugging him tightly.
"Haha no problem Laur," Calum replied before he went to pick up his own pile of presents.
In confusion, all but Paige were unsure of the wrapped human like figure standing next to the Christmas tree that was waiting for Amy to unwrap. "Well this is terrifying..." She laughed, as she began to take off the paper. To her utter delight, Paige had in fact bought her a cardboard cut-out of Harrison Koisser to admire and perhaps stroke...
"Oh my god Paige! Thank you!" Amy squealed, running over and hugging Paige.
"Your drinks are ready guys! They're on the table." Charlie said as he walked back in and sat down in front of his present. "Who's opening theirs next?"
"I am!" Calum shouted, quickly unwrapping his present - Specially made Diiv PJs. "Thank you Laura!" He shouted in glee, getting up and hugging her tightly.
"Paige, you're next." Connor smiled, handing her a flat, square present. She gently peeled away the tape and opened it to find an MGMT record - Congratulations to be exact.
"Oh my god Connor! Thank you SO SO much!" Paige jumped over the paper to hug him.
"I know how much you love The Horrors Georgie." Jacob said as Georgie opened her present with a squeal of delight - it was a signed poster.
"Thank you so so much Jacob!" She hugged him. "Open yours!"
Jacob sat down on the floor and unwrapped his gift, a smile spread across his face as he opened a signed Morrissey autobiography.
"Thank you wow, thank you so much Georgie." He smiled, hugging her once again.
"Here, since Charlie didn't bring the drinks through and they got cold I've brought us a festive plate and jug of mulled wine." Paige smiled, putting it on the floor. Laura and James looked at each other and raced for the rum truffles and of course James snatched them out of Laura's hand before she could even take one.
Amelia was handed a rather wonderful Spector poster from Lydia to a lot of thanks and general madness who in return got some signed Drenge vinyl. "OH MY THANK YOU!" Laughed Lydia, as she and Amelia hugged each other.
Everyone was sitting round in their festive pyjamas (no inappropriate 'santa' lingerie here) as Molly and Avalon opened their presents from each other. Avalon received a pair of homemade Peace-themed socks while Molly got a Biffy Clyro mug, because everyone should drink their favourite beverage with a band label slapped across it.
"Okay, here's your present James." Charlie smiled, handing him an envelope. James opened the envelope to reveal a £50 HMV giftcard. "I didn't know what to get you." Charlie smiled.
Charl opened her present, a hamper filled with records and old band shirts. "Who's it from?" She smiled.
"All of us!" Nina called out.
"Thank you all so much!" Charl replied, inspecting one of the records.
"Wow thanks man." James replied, fist bumping Charlie.
"Okay Charlie, open your box!" Avalon shouted.
Charlie shifted across the floor and knelt up in front of the box. "Guys, I swear it just moved." He said, looking around at the group.
"I don't think it did, I think you're still drunk mate." Connor laughed.
Charlie lifted the lid off the bus and out popped Superfood.
"Merry Christmas Charlie!" The quartet shouted, engulfing him in an awkward group hug. The band climbed out and played a few songs...
***
The day went on, the group got drunk and ate loads of food and soon found themselves slumped around the living room on their laptops, Superfood watching a Christmas movie and the neighbours banging on the walls because of the ruckus everyone had caused.
"I think we should head to bed." Charlie yawned.
"No, let's stay up and party!" Charl shouted.
"I don't know, I'm really enjoying this movie." Carl said, the rest of the band nodding their heads in agreement.
"Well, I think I'll head to bed." Charlie sighed, getting up and walking out of the room.
"Yeah me too." Amelia smiled, shutting down her laptop.
A few more members of the group went off upstairs to bed.
"It's been a very eventful Christmas." Avalon concluded.
"Better than I first anticipated." Charlotte replied.
"Its been brilliant." Paige sighed, not even bothering to look up from her laptop screen.
"This year has been brilliant, with the blog and all." Nina smiled.
"Yeah." Laura agreed. "I'm so thankful for our readers."
"Me too." Paige sighed happily.
"Well, shall we go to bed?" Connor asked.
"We may as well." Cal said, standing up and stretching.
"We're going to bed now guys so the blankets and airbeds are in the kitchen for yous to bring through, enjoy your movie, night!" Avalon said to Superfood.
"Thanks for having us guys, goodnight!" Dom said as the group wandered out.
"Night!" Emily and Ryan shouted in unison.
And so the FIBLAR crew went to bed, Superfood stayed up and watched a Christmas movie and everyone had a great time.
Thank you everyone for your support over these last two months, it means the world to us! We'll keep the mosts coming, we wouldn't be able to run this without you all! Merry Christmas, have a great holiday!
Love from FIBLAR!
xxxxxxxxxx
Wednesday, 18 December 2013
Bedroom Walls
I am guessing that most teenagers of this day and age have bedroom walls covered in posters, gig tickets, photos and other precious memoirs; I am only assuming this though. I have discovered that here at FIBLAR, we have quite a varied range of bedroom walls which are all magnificent and need to be shared.
Molly's Wall
It's kind of typical nowadays for a teenager's bedroom walls to be entirely dominated by pictures and posters of the things that they love. The wall behind my bed used to be just that; every inch covered in tiny little pictures cut from magazines, no order or pattern at all. Thankfully, that phase has ended and around a month ago, I decided I no longer liked how my wall looked. I took everything down and kept only the biggest things, arranging them in a new, minimalistic and almost symmetrical way, which I am immensely proud of. The wall includes Palma Violets, The Smiths, The Vaccines, JAWS and more, but taking centre stage is Biffy Clyro (I also have a poster of them on my ceiling) because really, I just love looking at Simon Neil.
Amelia's Wall
This is above my desk. My stereo is blocking out a lovely picture of grimes and hidden behind my lamp is the poster of peace that came with In Love.
This is a close up of my main wall featuring some bunting and fairy lights. I think I stuck this up around the time In Love came out and every magazine was filled with Peace pictures as there seems to be an alarming amount. Having a slanted ceiling makes fitting stuff in a challenge but all the more rewarding when it ends up looking ok.
Laura's wall
Filled with indie dreamboats, memories, tickets and whatever else is up there; my walls are the best part of my room. The photos of me and band members from gigs of the past are there such as Peace, Swim Deep and JAWS. Smaller sections are dedicated to various artists such as Everything Everything, Arctic Monkeys and Haim. Almost every band or artist that puts a smile on my face, they're all on there.
Sometimes I take a moment to step back while music hums in the background and look around my walls - reading what the Peace lads wrote on the back of the photo we got together in April, seeing photos of me and JAWS taken inside the Think tank and Swim Deep outside. Metro tickets with the dates of shows on them, reminding me of how good thise nights were and that limited edition poster of Mark Owen my friend got me last year when I thought I'd never get to meet him. Everyone on my walls, they're all there for a reason - because they mean something to me.
Paige's Wall
I tend to hoard any music related 'stuff'. That stuff is usually posters, old tickets, ripped magazine articles. This is for a few very basic reasons which I shall list:
1. It makes my very dark room look very cool
Molly's Wall
Amelia's Wall
Laura's wall
Filled with indie dreamboats, memories, tickets and whatever else is up there; my walls are the best part of my room. The photos of me and band members from gigs of the past are there such as Peace, Swim Deep and JAWS. Smaller sections are dedicated to various artists such as Everything Everything, Arctic Monkeys and Haim. Almost every band or artist that puts a smile on my face, they're all on there. Sometimes I take a moment to step back while music hums in the background and look around my walls - reading what the Peace lads wrote on the back of the photo we got together in April, seeing photos of me and JAWS taken inside the Think tank and Swim Deep outside. Metro tickets with the dates of shows on them, reminding me of how good thise nights were and that limited edition poster of Mark Owen my friend got me last year when I thought I'd never get to meet him. Everyone on my walls, they're all there for a reason - because they mean something to me.
Paige's Wall
1. It makes my very dark room look very cool
2. I feel like I'm hanging out with a different rockstar every night - a thrilling idea!
3. It's a form of escapism for when I want to burn my school work
Rohanie's Wall
I moved on from the plastering my walls from top to bottom with posters when I was about 14, since then I've been blu tacking various gigs tickets, adverts, articles, photos and posters until I was almost back to my circa 2009 roots, this time without dodgy google images of mgmt and Jonny Pierce (of The Drums) printed from my more than temperamental printer. My favourite parts of this wall are my Horrors tickets signed by the band when I met them in 2011 and Felix of the Maccabees' plectrum I caught in a fantastically James Bond moment at their gig in Birmingham in January 2012. My room was once a hideous cerise colour (the paint was actually called "sexy pink" which made my 7 year old self feel so punk rock) but it got painted to a more ~mature~ pastel colour, that ended up acting as a canvas for the scraps of all sorts that ended up being stuck on the walls. Other highlights include the 7 pictures of Grimes, a limited edition print by artist Robert Ryan and a handwritten setlist by Gareth of lc!, handed into my very hand by the then bassist Ellen, a moment that I replayed in my head in the car journey over and over until I had near convinced myself it hadn't happened and was a materialisation of my dazed mind.
As skin crawlingly embarrassing as it may appear, my walls feel like memories, scrapbooks of what's happened so far in my life, although the majority is gig tickets from the past 3 years, there's dodgy disposal camera photos from a school trip to Germany when I was 14, clothing tags from the first time I went to brick lane aged 12, a photo of me dressed as elvis Presley as part of my tap dancing classes aged 3, a Drums poster I took off a notice board from Birmingham city university social sciences department when waiting for my mum to finish work. The only regret I have is when I move away for uni in (hopefully) 2 years, and having to intricately prise everything off the walls, pack them away and reapply them to my prison cell of a halls room, nostalgically reminiscing of a time when I had pastel pink walls and enough floor space to ultimately unsuccessfully practise doing the splits for 8 years. (the bird paintings came when I was on a school trip to france and my mum got bored)
ps. the square shaped hole is where one if my mums paintings was before being used for an exhibition, I haven't found anything suitable to fill the geometric gap yet
Nina's wall
I wish I could say there's some really deep meaning behind the posters on my wall but really all that's behind them is blu tack. But at the same time I guess certain posters can bring back memories like songs can such as my Swim Deep tour poster which reminds me of where I met one of my now best friends.
Avalon's wall
I have always enjoyed having posters on my walls - when I was ten, I had a slightly creepy obsession with the youtuber charlieissocoollike, so I built my own 'wall of stuff' to match his. This summer, I decided that the jumble of pictures on my walls was pointless, outdated and ugly. I spent two days tearing them down and painting the wall white. I listened exclusively to Splashh and Dog is Dead and wore only my bra and faded denim cutoffs. Starting from scratch I made a 'music wall' - basically a shrine to my favourite bands and musicians. The pictures are a combination of ebay and tour posters, cutouts from NME, and A4 sheets printed secretly from my school's art room. There are a bunch of gig tickets, and awkward photos with band members, and just things that make me happy - photos taken on broken disposable cameras at gigs, polaroids with friends, pages ripped from magazines, photobooth pictures. I add things to it everyday, and it is very much still a work in progress. I am not even sure that it will ever be done!
Amy's Wall
I don't like my room. I never actually have. The first stages of my wall started in the summer of 2012 where I thought I was very cool having pictures of YouTubers and small, motivational yet cringey notes stuck up on every inch of my wall. I then started reading NME and a huge Jake Bugg obsession hit me like a swarm of flies; this urged me to have NME cutouts and front covers arranged on my wall in a messy fashion. My skin would be crawling if I had to re-live that wall and see the chaos of it. My next stage came quite recently, perhaps during summer this year, and is now the stage of my current wall. I decided that order and organisation satisfied me a lot so wanted to portray this on my wall. I built it around my Ben Howard poster which I bought at the Summer Stampede earlier this year. I have a small section dedicated to David Bowie as know that my obsession with Bowie will (fortunately) never leave. I bought The Beatles poster with no real reason at all; It just fitted in the gap that my wall once possessed. I only put the christmas lights up earlier this week but may have to keep them for the whole year until I need a new set. A few weeks ago, I decided that, yet again, I dislike my wall. I haven't tried to rearrange it as I simply do not have the effort. I plan to paint all my walls white so it feels minimalistic and clean; just how I want it. I probably won't change it for a while as I know my mind will surely return to the state that it were once in.
-Amy x
Amy's Wall
-Amy x
Sunday, 15 December 2013
Why record fairs are so darn cool
Recently, I went to a local record fair with another FIBLAR writer Laura (a good friend of mine). Admittedly, as much as I was excited, I was wasn't really expecting a lot. My idea of what would be available was over priced LP's in bad condition and the odd spattering of 7" singles. However, on entry, I was very pleasantly surprised. The physicality of tangible music is always wonderful, whether in CD or vinyl form; the smell of old cardboard sleeves, the sound of the record as you take it out of the paper and the fact you can actually flick through rows upon rows of music until that moment when you find that gem that you've been searching after for years.
It takes time looking for CD's or records. For many, it would be a lot easier to download a song they like in less than a minute. And why not? 'Instant' music is brilliant in many ways because it is not only far easier to find (and eventually buy) it but to find other similar artists can be done in an instant. However, for many other people (myself included), taking the time to find new and old music alike is one of the most exciting activities to engage in.
Furthermore, the experience of finding like minded nerdy individuals is fun in itself; meeting people who share you obsession for Bowie and coloured vinyl reminds you that there are people out there weirder/cooler than your good self. I found myself talking to a man who shared by belief on the best Bowie 'era' (Ziggy Stardust... Obviously) and another record seller who dealt very well with my worrying inability to make decisions (The "Life On Mars?" picture disc or the limited edition yellow "The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy...." vinyl???). If you're interested, I went for the brightly coloured bad boy you can see somewhere around this paragraph (formatting terrifies me).
Sadly, myself and Laura were the only 'young people' (what a horrendous phrase) there. This meant we received quite a few "What on earth are you doing here? Has the internet broke?" looks off some of the more experienced vinyl collectors. In all fairness, the amount of spiel surrounding downloading music and teenagers means most people assume we have never gone out of the house to buy a piece of music in our lives. While this is true for many, it still feels sad that such a great event didn't bring along many young people at all. This begs the question of who will go to record fairs and records shops and the like when we're the 'older' generation? Better publicity could be a start; considering most music themed gatherings are either advertised (badly) on social networking sites or stuck to lampposts (the latter concept baffles me - who on earth stops to look at a lamppost?) While it feels good to be part of a niche group that gets a kick out of finding music, there is still a sense that it would all be a lot more fun if there were more people your own age there - to chat to and maybe flirt with etc...
Overall, record fairs are cool but where are all the young dudes!?
It takes time looking for CD's or records. For many, it would be a lot easier to download a song they like in less than a minute. And why not? 'Instant' music is brilliant in many ways because it is not only far easier to find (and eventually buy) it but to find other similar artists can be done in an instant. However, for many other people (myself included), taking the time to find new and old music alike is one of the most exciting activities to engage in.
Furthermore, the experience of finding like minded nerdy individuals is fun in itself; meeting people who share you obsession for Bowie and coloured vinyl reminds you that there are people out there weirder/cooler than your good self. I found myself talking to a man who shared by belief on the best Bowie 'era' (Ziggy Stardust... Obviously) and another record seller who dealt very well with my worrying inability to make decisions (The "Life On Mars?" picture disc or the limited edition yellow "The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy...." vinyl???). If you're interested, I went for the brightly coloured bad boy you can see somewhere around this paragraph (formatting terrifies me).Sadly, myself and Laura were the only 'young people' (what a horrendous phrase) there. This meant we received quite a few "What on earth are you doing here? Has the internet broke?" looks off some of the more experienced vinyl collectors. In all fairness, the amount of spiel surrounding downloading music and teenagers means most people assume we have never gone out of the house to buy a piece of music in our lives. While this is true for many, it still feels sad that such a great event didn't bring along many young people at all. This begs the question of who will go to record fairs and records shops and the like when we're the 'older' generation? Better publicity could be a start; considering most music themed gatherings are either advertised (badly) on social networking sites or stuck to lampposts (the latter concept baffles me - who on earth stops to look at a lamppost?) While it feels good to be part of a niche group that gets a kick out of finding music, there is still a sense that it would all be a lot more fun if there were more people your own age there - to chat to and maybe flirt with etc...
Overall, record fairs are cool but where are all the young dudes!?
Thursday, 12 December 2013
Our Favourite Albums
Hi guys, Laura here! I guess we all have a favourite album so a few of us thought we'd share ours with you all...
Georgie - My favourite album is
definitely Primary Colours by The Horrors. I started listening to The
Horrors when I was in Year 7 of secondary school and I guess that was
the time my taste in music really began to develop and change. Of
course, I loved everything about Strange House- but there's just
something about Primary Colours that no other album will ever beat (for
me personally anyway). It's literally everything you could ever ask for
from music and everytime I listen to it it blows my mind how something
this beautiful was created by human hands. There's no end to the reasons
of why I'd recommend it to someone as it's incredibly difficult to put
into words just how great this album is. Like, seriously. It's amazing.
Listen to it.
Laura - My favourite album is probably Reality Killed The Video Star by Robbie Williams. It was the first album of his I heard and instantly fell in love with it, my 13 year old self was obviously very pleased with what she heard as the love has lasted. The album kicks off with Morning Sun, a slow ballad-like song hich was the official single for Sport Relief 2010. The album glides through a range of genres including the pop sounds of Do You Mind, then the more dark electro sound of Last Days Of Disco and a little dance-rock before ending with Morning Sun Reprise, slow and graceful. I recommend this album to anyone and everyone. It doesn't fit the classic Robbie Williams sound and is quite unique.
Molly - I always say that choosing a
favourite album is tough, yet there's always one that comes into my
head straight away when asked: What Did You Expect From The Vaccines, by
The Vaccines (funnily enough). It was the first proper guitar album I
really got into, and I have spent many a happy hour prancing about in my
bedroom, pretending I'm a part of the band (usually switching between
being the air-guitarist and the air-drummer; I've pretty much perfected
Norgaard). In summer I'd lay down in a field listening to Wetsuit or
stroll through a wood to my personal favourite track, All In White. Now
it's winter, I often bring out my What Did You Expect vinyl for a spin
and quietly appreciate the thrashing guitars (bit of an oxymoron there)
and often serene melodies that go with them. I honestly love this album
like a child loves their favourite cuddly toy, and I don't know what I'd
have ever done without it.
Amy - I don't think it is ever possible to have a specific
'favourite' something. You can have favourites, but not a favourite, as
people's minds change all the time. One of my favourite records I own is
'Precious'. It's a compilation album of various britpop/90's song of
the 'indie rock' genre. As most people know, I am a huge fan of this era
so 'Precious' is a perfect album for me. It includes many artists such
as Blur, Suede, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, Lush and obviously, a
lot more. It being a double album is also great as there is always a
slight satisfaction about owning two vinyls in one hard sleeve. My mum
owned it before I borrowed/stole it. The great thing about having
similar music taste to your parents is that you get all of their old
CD's and vinyls. Something worth treasuring.
Paige - Although there are many
albums that have touched my heart over the years (NB: The Smiths Hatful
Of Hollow and David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust album) and made me instant
fans of their music. However, there is one album that sticks out as
being one of those "favourite" albums. For me, this is (rather
unsurprisingly) MGMT's second album Congratulations. Released in 2010, I
didn't discover it until a year or so later, when I quite
whole-heartedly fell in love with the richness of the sound the general
all out weirdness and fuzz that made it so brilliant. It was also one of
the first albums I was very excited to buy because I had just got into
my soon-to-be-favourite-band-of-all-time and actually felt cool being a
girl who listened to MGMT. My favourite song has to be Brian Eno for the
last 2 minutes where it feels like your head is going to explode into a
fog of glitter and you are going to break into a dance wherever you
are. Other favourite tracks include Siberian Breaks (unadultereated
heartbreak) and Flash Delirium (silly money you're my honey) because
they are guaranteed to take you somewhere else.
Georgie - My favourite album is
definitely Primary Colours by The Horrors. I started listening to The
Horrors when I was in Year 7 of secondary school and I guess that was
the time my taste in music really began to develop and change. Of
course, I loved everything about Strange House- but there's just
something about Primary Colours that no other album will ever beat (for
me personally anyway). It's literally everything you could ever ask for
from music and everytime I listen to it it blows my mind how something
this beautiful was created by human hands. There's no end to the reasons
of why I'd recommend it to someone as it's incredibly difficult to put
into words just how great this album is. Like, seriously. It's amazing.
Listen to it.
Laura - My favourite album is probably Reality Killed The Video Star by Robbie Williams. It was the first album of his I heard and instantly fell in love with it, my 13 year old self was obviously very pleased with what she heard as the love has lasted. The album kicks off with Morning Sun, a slow ballad-like song hich was the official single for Sport Relief 2010. The album glides through a range of genres including the pop sounds of Do You Mind, then the more dark electro sound of Last Days Of Disco and a little dance-rock before ending with Morning Sun Reprise, slow and graceful. I recommend this album to anyone and everyone. It doesn't fit the classic Robbie Williams sound and is quite unique. 
Molly - I always say that choosing a
favourite album is tough, yet there's always one that comes into my
head straight away when asked: What Did You Expect From The Vaccines, by
The Vaccines (funnily enough). It was the first proper guitar album I
really got into, and I have spent many a happy hour prancing about in my
bedroom, pretending I'm a part of the band (usually switching between
being the air-guitarist and the air-drummer; I've pretty much perfected
Norgaard). In summer I'd lay down in a field listening to Wetsuit or
stroll through a wood to my personal favourite track, All In White. Now
it's winter, I often bring out my What Did You Expect vinyl for a spin
and quietly appreciate the thrashing guitars (bit of an oxymoron there)
and often serene melodies that go with them. I honestly love this album
like a child loves their favourite cuddly toy, and I don't know what I'd
have ever done without it.
Amy - I don't think it is ever possible to have a specific
'favourite' something. You can have favourites, but not a favourite, as
people's minds change all the time. One of my favourite records I own is
'Precious'. It's a compilation album of various britpop/90's song of
the 'indie rock' genre. As most people know, I am a huge fan of this era
so 'Precious' is a perfect album for me. It includes many artists such
as Blur, Suede, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, Lush and obviously, a
lot more. It being a double album is also great as there is always a
slight satisfaction about owning two vinyls in one hard sleeve. My mum
owned it before I borrowed/stole it. The great thing about having
similar music taste to your parents is that you get all of their old
CD's and vinyls. Something worth treasuring.
Paige - Although there are many
albums that have touched my heart over the years (NB: The Smiths Hatful
Of Hollow and David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust album) and made me instant
fans of their music. However, there is one album that sticks out as
being one of those "favourite" albums. For me, this is (rather
unsurprisingly) MGMT's second album Congratulations. Released in 2010, I
didn't discover it until a year or so later, when I quite
whole-heartedly fell in love with the richness of the sound the general
all out weirdness and fuzz that made it so brilliant. It was also one of
the first albums I was very excited to buy because I had just got into
my soon-to-be-favourite-band-of-all-time and actually felt cool being a
girl who listened to MGMT. My favourite song has to be Brian Eno for the
last 2 minutes where it feels like your head is going to explode into a
fog of glitter and you are going to break into a dance wherever you
are. Other favourite tracks include Siberian Breaks (unadultereated
heartbreak) and Flash Delirium (silly money you're my honey) because
they are guaranteed to take you somewhere else.Saturday, 7 December 2013
"It's the best selling show"
There is one question that is guaranteed to get a music fan all of a flutter - "What do you like about gigs so much?" I believe that gigs, especially those in smaller venues which present a hearty lack of health and safety regulations or age restrictions, have provided some of the most, hilarious, embarrassing and generally wonderful memories, whether shared with friends or otherwise.
In my opinion, the context of a gig makes you either incredibly scared or incredibly mental. I am often an oddly contrasting combination of the two; where the boy behind me who is a bit too touchy-feely is making me feel slightly uncomfortable but the ear drum-bursting pouring out bass of the amps makes me not give a damn and I'm guaranteed to end up on the floor singing my lungs... out? Live music allows you to lose control for a few hours. The metaphorical "letting go" of the stuff that makes you feel like you want to punch a wall is like the perfect tragedy: a cleansing of the emotions; where you leave feeling like you could take on the world (if you could be bothered).
Although the music is obviously the most important part of a gig, the entire experience of the time leading up to it is often just as exciting. Planning how much eyeliner and glitter I will pack onto my poor eyelids and which shirt I will wear ("the paisley one says interesting and mysterious, while the denim one says business"), sets the night up as an event, which it most probably will be (unless the band you're seeing is terrible.... oops). Everything associated with a gig makes me feel positively thrilled - meeting friends, trying to pass for 18, queuing up for hours on end, buying a t shirt and all the associated etiquette is often just as fun as the music itself.
Quite often, the experience of seeing an artist in very raw and personal surroundings makes you love them just that little bit more: You're seeing them at their most vulnerable considering that the crowd could either make or break them. Moreover, hearing your favourite song in a room full of people who may also call it their favourite song creates the best atmosphere imaginable. Seeing 'them' on stage grinning at all of you as you sing along is not only magical, but makes you feel like you're part of a secret club, despite the fact that you have kept their albums to yourself in your bedroom for the past few years. In my opinion, this creates a sense that, when you have seen them live, your love has reached excessive levels because you're in the same room as them, you can see their every expression when they play and you can sing your heart out when previously only the walls have heard your wonderful voice.
Interestingly, I find that many songs from a band that you haven't held especially close to your heart sound utterly sublime when played with extravagant gusto live. Furthermore, some artists actually sound better in a live setting, because they built up their fanbase using live shows or their sound is more naturally aggressive than what you can gather from the CD, for example. This feeling is definitely aided by seeing them perform in front of you, because you can see their interactions, reactions and every little smile they give you.
To summarise: Gigs are really THE BEST SELLING SHOW (I do love a David Bowie pun...)
Paige x x x
 |
| My friend and I after the Peace show last week (looking deranged) |
 |
| Oh look a signed Drenge t shirt! |
 |
| That time I saw MGMT and nearly burst into tears of joy |
Interestingly, I find that many songs from a band that you haven't held especially close to your heart sound utterly sublime when played with extravagant gusto live. Furthermore, some artists actually sound better in a live setting, because they built up their fanbase using live shows or their sound is more naturally aggressive than what you can gather from the CD, for example. This feeling is definitely aided by seeing them perform in front of you, because you can see their interactions, reactions and every little smile they give you.
To summarise: Gigs are really THE BEST SELLING SHOW (I do love a David Bowie pun...)
Paige x x x
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