Month: October 2006

Johnny Marr

HAPPY 43rd BIRTHDAY TO JOHNNY MARR

This is going to have to be a hurried entry…I’m determined to get it all in by midnight before it’s too late.

Another Halloween comes round, and with it another birthday for the greatest guitarist that has ever lived.

I worshipped the ground that Johnny Marr walked upon when he was with The Smiths. And it wasn’t too much different when he was with Electronic and The The.

I’ve not long finished reading what I think is the first biography of the great man – ‘Johnny Marr : The Smiths & The Art of Gun-Slinging’ by Richard Carman. The book is entertaining enough but suffers from some sloppy writing with some facts incorrectly quoted. But it does give a superb overview of Johnny’s career and pinpoints just how good his work outside of The Smiths has been – including some memorable moments with Billy Bragg and the late Kirsty McColl.

Not the greatest unofficial biography ever, but well worth a read if you’re a fan of Johnny.

So many great songs to choose from. I went for this.

Please Please Please…. – The Smiths (mp3)

The new book, as well as all sorts of records that Johnny has played on, not least his most recent work with The Healers, is available at Amazon.

All the best people were born in 1963. New Order even named one of their songs after us.

THERE WERE NO SONGS LEFT AT THIS POST

Uncategorized

WHAT A CRAP WEEKEND THIS HAS BEEN

Loads of blogs all over the world are bemoaning the inefficiency of EZ Archive right now. More than 72 hours ago, the EZ Archive server went down with a view to all files being transferred across to something bigger and better. All the plans for music this weekend have been shelved.

Sorry.

And don’t get me going about how bad my football teams (or soccer to any North American friends) have been all weekend.

Raith Rovers LOST

Southampton LOST

Rochdale LOST.

Oh and a Fantasy League team that I manage (in the loosest sense of the word) had the worst imaginable performance with MINUS 2 POINTS. I remain rooted to the foot of the table.

To top it all, the one American team I follow is Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And yup, at half-time as I type this, they’re heading for another decisive defeat.

Roll on Monday where work can only make me feel better.

Sigh

THERE WERE (INCREDIBLY!!!!!!) TWO COMMENTS LEFT AT THIS POST

Anonymous said…

[Sigh] indeed. Hey, my team won last night though! 🙂

What are you doing about hosting? I’ve just gone back to YouSendIt – where I first started a long time ago… 🙂

JC said…

Ez Archive finally came back on 2nite. I’ve transferred all the old files and added a new song. It all seems to work. I’ll give them another chance.

Uncategorized

WANNA MAKE SOME PEOPLE FAMOUS?

Sorry – while I can now post, the sounds are still off-limits.

This is TVV’s first act of charity. But it’s in a very worthy cause.

I’ve a mate in a band – they’re called AKA The Fox – and they’re popular in an underground, word-of mouth sort of way. But that might change – and you, dear reader, can help.

Let my mate explain. Here’s his e-mail from earlier today:-

‘Please support your resident idiot rock n roller’s desperate attempt to get him and his band on the telly.

Click on the link below and then please vote for ‘AKA The Fox’.

If we win – and with the help of all you beautiful people miracles are truly possible – then the BBC will make a proper video for us and then show it on their new programme called ‘The Music Show’, which begins on November 5.

You may even want to listen to what we sound like before voting.

But I take no responsibility for offended musical tastes, allergic reactions or general nausea.

Push that button.’

2026 UPDATE 

AKA The Fox didn’t win the public vote.  The band stuck about for a bit before breaking-up after a farewell gig in late 2013

Lloyd Cole

ANYONE CAN PLAY GUITAR

Major production problems just now. Can’t seem to load photos or muisc files. Sorry about the temporary dip in quality. I hope to resume normal service as and when Blogspot and EZArchive allow me.

A few posts back, I mentioned how I’d never been let down at any Lloyd Cole gig. But for nearly quarter-of-an-hour last night, that threatened to change.

Lloyd took to the stage, acknowledged the crowd and then turned side-on to fiddle about with a computer on stage. Some weird noises came out – a bit like a very poor Brian Eno or Kraftwerk gig. The first bit of noise faded. Silence. No applause. No crowd reaction at all. Not a word from Lloyd. He hit another button and fiddled with some other controls. A few minutes later that noise faded out and maybe five people in the audience applauded. The rest, including myself, were bemused. Were we in for a night of stuff from ‘Plastic Wood’, Lloyd’s instrumental ambient electronica album that nobody bought – and if they did, haven’t played since the first listening?

Lloyd playfully wiped away non-existent beads of sweat from his brow. And produced a third set of noise. This was no longer amusing. At the end of that piece, he exchanged his first meaningful words with the audience – ‘You can see the guitars, you know this isn’t going to go on all night,’ But for how long. The answer was, not very. The fourth bit of noise was the last. Lloyd removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves and went to work. As he did, he was joined on stage by a Commotion – the immensely talented Neil Clark.

The next hour and a quarter flew in. I don’t think I’ve ever been at such contrasting gigs back to back as that of the Barfly the other night and the Queen’s Hall last night. One was hot, sticky and full of adrenalin. The other was quiet, atmospheric and very therapeutic after a nightmare drive through pouring rain to get there (thanks Rachel – my very own ‘Goddess on A Hiway’). And each was memorable.

Drawing mostly on his solo career – which amounts to somewhere in the region of ten albums compared to his three with the Commotions – this was a set of somewhere around 20-25 songs – I didn’t take notes and there was no set-list at the end to try and blag – and each song was as good as the last.

It was however, a different gig altogether than those of the last 5 years or so. On his own with only a guitar and microphone, Lloyd has been like a mini-version of Billy Bragg – songs interspersed with humorous asides or tales of how the songs themselves evolved. Last night, it was strictly business with very little said. Until later on the gig when he was visibly more relaxed – then he had a dig at Heart of Midlothian FC and later on commented on the boots on a woman who was nipping out for a comfort break between songs.

I reckon it was partly to do with some of the songs relying on the computer for the accompaniment – Lloyd was fidgeting about with buttons and dials and looking nervously at the machine and screen. He did say at one point that the technology had previously let him down on a number of occasions during the tour. I also reckon, and much more importantly, he didn’t want to hog the limelight. The gig was billed as a Lloyd Cole solo concert – it would have been just as fair to have billed it as ‘Lloyd Cole & Neil Clark.’ And it wouldn’t have stopped anyone who was there from going along.

Neil’s guitar playing was incredible. It’s often forgotten just how much he contributed to the sounds of the Commotions, and it’s hardly surprising that now he’s working with Lloyd again that the latter has released his most critically-acclaimed record in years.

Neil’s presence on stage meant some of the songs changed beyond recognition – ‘Past Imperfect’, from the ‘Negatives album was slowed down and turned into a very moody, almost twisted, but still brilliant song. But at other times, his playing was as note- perfect as it was on record – even those from more than two decades ago. ‘2CV’ from the Rattlesnakes LP brought the house down.

There were just about enough Commotions songs – five in total (‘Heartbroken’ ‘2CV, ‘Country Music’, ‘Cut Me Down’ and ‘Jennifer’ ) – to keep those fans lost to the solo stuff happy throughout the night. Strangely, there were only four songs played from his very fine new release ‘Antidepressant’, while every other LP from the back catalogue had anything between one and four songs lifted from them.

It was a near perfect mix of songs covering what has been a fantastic 22-year career. Yes, there were a couple that I wish had been played – ‘Undressed’ and ‘Forest Fire’ (the former cos it makes me smile while nailing the myth that Lloyd is po-faced, and latter for Neil’s guitar licks), but I ain’t grumbling.

One final point – Lloyd still looks slim and fit and young and every inch a star; Neil still looks slim and fit but more like the sort of bloke who comes round to paint your ceiling…..

Hurry back Mr Cole. Bring a friend if you want, or come alone. Either way, I’ll be there.

UNABLE TO ACCESS THE THREE COMMENTS LEFT AT THIS POST

Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy

BEAT THE CLOCK, YOU’VE GOT TO BEAT THE CLOCK

Dashing out of the door to head over to Edinburgh to catch Lloyd Cole in concert. I hope to post a review tomorrow.

Decided that I would upload the 1st track that came through when I shuffled the songs on the i-pod. It’s a belter:-

Television, The Drug of The Nation – Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy

One of the best rap/hip-hop tunes ever written. Sad that there was only one album released. If you don’t own it, do something about it. You won’t regret it. You can also find it on i-tunes.

Micheal Franti has released some amazing stuff with Spearhead, but I don’t think he’s ever matched this. No doubt someone will disagree.

DHoH once appeared live on ‘The Word’. What a performance it was. ‘You Tube’ has it. If you haven’t seen it before, watch and be astounded.

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The Bible

SAX APPEAL

There are many who say the sax solo in ‘Baker Steet’ by Gerry Rafferty is the best ever. But it’s not the opinion of the fat balding bloke who runs this blog.

I offer you from 1986 (can it already be 20 years??) my fave bit of saxophone on any record:-

Mahalia (12″) – The Bible

Kevin Flanagan is the man credited with addding the finishing touches to this great song.

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Uncategorized

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL – 1,2,3.

Of the half-a-dozen or so gigs on the slate for October, ‘Gonzo On Tour’ at the Glasgow Barfly last night was the one that I was most intrigued about.

I picked up on The Young Knives just over a year ago after seeing one of their videos on MTV2. I signed-up to their webpage and through this got advance notice that they were playing said Gonzo gig, supported by The Grates (whoever they were). So tickets were purchased.

A couple of days later, it was announced that the indie flavour of the month – The View – were also going to be part of the show. Given that this lot are from Dundee, maybe 90 mins drive away from Glasgow, and that their gigs in Scotland sell out pretty quickly, I did wonder if it would all be a bit too much and the hype would be more than the thing itself.

Neither myself nor Rachel had set foot in the Barfly before. I think now we’ve got the full set of venues in our home city, including some that are no longer with us (The Plaza, Tiffany’s, Maestro’s, Night Moves and The Apollo to name five off the top of my head). It was much smaller than we imagined, but that allowed everyone to get up close to the stage. Problem with that is there was no chance of hiding from any of the MTV2 cameras recording the gig for transmission later in the year. And we were conscious of being just about the oldest folk there – maybe the grandparents of the boys from The View were marginally nearer bus-pass age.

It was hot, it was sticky and it was very noisy. The room was on fire. And that was before any of the bands took to the stage.

How to describe The View? Think of a combination of The Arctic Monkeys and The Libertines (before Pete Doherty went off the rails) and you’re just about there. And they were bloody brilliant. No – forget that. They were beyond brilliant. They completely lived up to the hype and went beyond anything I expected of them. A blinding 30 minute set that felt about half that time and then they were gone. Back up to Dundee before they breached their ASBOs. (Any foreign visitors are asked to ‘google’ ASBOs for an explanation). This lot are going to be massive. See them before it’s too late and its Arenas and Festivals only. Be prepared to sweat a lot. If you’re getting on a bit, be prepared to jump about like you haven’t done since The Pixies at their peak. Be prepared to be blown away. And get ready to take evasive action as one crowd-surfing guitar player leaps off the stage as the gig comes to an end.

Follow that The Grates.

A bloke and 2 girls take to the stage. One of the girls is stunning-looking, if a bit stick-insect thin. She is also dressed like Cyndi Lauper. Not too sure at this stage. The other girl – tomboyish and dungaree-clad – goes behind the drum-set and starts pounding away. Bloke – pretty nondescript and the type I’ve seen in many bands over the years – plucks at his guitar strings. They make sounds that are not unpleasant on the ears. The looker, who now has a manic grin, is leaping around the stage in the manner of Richard Jobson circa 1978. Visually, it is incredible. Thankfully, the singing is not a let-down.

Here was a band that had loads to lose. An audience that, at the start, was half of that from the opening act, and an audience that was much more reserved and quiet. Not much good if, like The Grates you’re an ‘in your face’ sort of band who require a reaction. And thankfully, and deservedly, they got one. The crowd started to came back onto the floor from the upstairs bar. They clapped and they cheered as The Grates played a thoroughly enjoyable 30 minute set.

Today, I’ve learned they’re from Brisbane, Australia, and that they’ve released a handful of EPs and singles over the past 3 years. And that they released an album earlier this year. One website has said of them, ‘They have been lauded for their catchy songs and enthusiastic and energetic live shows. They are frequently described as fun. They have a distinctive style.’ Pretty accurate if you ask me.

Follow that The Young Knives

You’re coming on after two totally different types of acts have had an audience eating out of the collective palms of their hands. And you’re a band who make videos that follow the great English comedy traditions of Madness and The Housemartins. But you’re not famed for having stage prescence.

You treated us to a blistering 50 minutes, producing as good a live set as I’ve seen all year. Supremely tight. That surprised and delighted me. As did the quality of Henry’s guitar licks. They were at times Coxon-esque – especially on the gorgeous and lovely ‘Hollow Line’. You were clearly enjoying yourselves, and the audience was with you all the way. Your on-stage chat inbetween songs was equally spontaneous and amusing.

It wasn’t a flawless set – I just don’t like the song ‘Tailors’ and it didn’t improve in the live environment. But everything else….far too many highlights to mention. You deserve the fame and adulation that is going to come the way of The View. I hope that somehow it all comes your way. Everyone should own a copy of ‘Here Comes The Rumour Mill’ – one of the best singles of 2006.  Oh, and thanks to the House of Lords for both his breakdancing and his tribute to The View at the end when he crowd-surfed. Very funny. I just hope that when the gig airs, I don’t look too much of a prat down the front. I’ll be easily spotted – the old fat bloke in among the young and skinny students.

A memorable gig all in. And a complete contrast to the next concert in 48 hours time. But more on that later in the week.

Sorry this has been such a lengthy posting, but it’s the only way to do the three bands justice.

Posh Boys – The View (mp3)

Science Is Golden – The Grates (mp3)

Loughborough Suicide – The Young Knives (mp3)

THERE WERE TWO COMMENTS LEFT AT THIS POST

W.A. Fading said…

Oh… wish I’d been to this now! Really enjoying the Young Knives album (in particular).

JC said…

Mr Fading. Your taste, as ever, is impeccable.

 

Edwyn Collins, James

FROM UNDER THE COVERS (2)

It’s a glorious autumnal day in my home city. It’s mornings like this that make me think I don’t really want to live anywhere else.

After the New Order-fest of the past week, I am now trying to resume something of a normal service. Time for an appropriate cover version from a few years ago.

Sunday Morning – James (mp3)

This can be found on the ‘Lose Control’ single of 1990. I love how Tim throws in loads of Velvet Underground song titles as the tune reaches a crescendo. Fabulous.

It’s probably only on e-bay that you’ll be able to purchase this song*. It was also a track on ‘Heaven & Hell’, a now difficult to find tribute album to The Velvet Underground.

I also want to dedicate a second song this morning to W A Fading. His was a truly astounding blog which was very nearly no more. But he has decided to begin all over again. I, for one, am truly thankful.

Take Care Of Yourself – Edwyn Collins (mp3)

Taken from ‘Hellbent On Compromise’ that was released in 1990. A record that is long-deleted**

* I wasn’t aware of places like Discogs back in October 2006.

** No longer the case!

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New Order, Pastel Vespa

FROM THE PAST UNTIL COMPLETION

If New Order were a brand-new outfit, what would the critical verdict be on the albums ‘Get Ready’ and ‘Waiting For The Siren’s Call’? The songs have been compared very unfavourably to past efforts, but when there are gems right through a back catalogue that is now more than 25 years old (scary thought), it’s hardly surprising. But I reckon some of the new stuff, and not just the catchy singles like ‘Crystal’ and ‘Krafty’ will endure the test of time in the years ahead. Such as:-

Slow Jam- New Order (mp3)

Who’s Joe? – New Order (mp3)

But please, no more duets with any of the Scissors Sisters.

I’m finishing off the cover versions with what I hope all fans will take in the right spirit. There’s a bit of hype about Nouvelle Vague and their 2 albums of punk/indie/new wave classics done in a lounge-act tribute sort of way. I actually think the albums are quite enjoyable in an occasional-listen kind of way, and at least they should be thanked for getting the criminally neglected Modern English back into some sort of limelight.

But over in Australia, that sort of sound is old hat thanks to Pastel Vespa. Only she does it mostly for laughs. But she has even managed to make something fairly unique…

Blue Monday – Pastel Vespa (mp3)

I want to sign off with a big thanks to the best website about all thing New Order that you would ever wish to visit – www.worldinmotion.net. It’s so fantastic, Tony Wilson has even given it a FAC number – 441.

And finally…..is it just me who thinks it spooky that the ‘band’ who played on the ‘Crystal’ video were known as ‘The Killers’ – many many months before Brandon Flowers and co. came to the world’s attention?

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New Order

I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU BUT I FEEL LIKE DANCING

The opening line of:-

Cloud Nine – Revenge (mp3)

The period after the release of ‘Technique’ was a strange time for New Order.

Factory Records and the Hacienda had major financial problems that unsettled the band. Barney was enjoying himself far more alongside Johnny Marr in Electronic, while Hooky was living his dreams of all-out leather-clad rock-star in Revenge. Gillian & Steven even produced a record of their own as The Other Two.

Some of the results of the spin-off projects would not have been out of place in any New Order discography. Well, maybe not too much of the Revenge output – but ‘Cloud Nine‘, taken from the appallingly named ‘Gun World Porn EP’ was better than OK.

I know from reading other blogs and opinions that Electronic has long divided fans of New Order and The Smiths alike. For what it’s worth, I thought the early singles and 1st album were magnificent and that some of the later stuff was more than reasonable, if a bit patchy. Electronic might not have toured very much, but I’m happy to say that I did get to see them at the Glasgow Barrowlands in late 1991, and it is a concert that remains a very happy memory. To be able to watch two of my favourite musicians perform on stage together at close quarters was a real treat. I also think that Johnny’s influence led to Barney becoming a more outgoing performer in the 90s with New Order…..but then again, other influences may have also played a part.

A particular favourite track of mine is an instrumental which in places reminds me of New Order in the ‘Low Life’ era and also makes me wonder just what direction Johnny would have taken his original band had they either not split up or indeed reformed in some shape or form. I don’t think however, that Morrissey would have come up with any decent lyrics for the funk/disco style his former best pal was turning out.

Freewill – Electronic (mp3)

But of all the records the band members released in other guises, there is an almost flawless piece of fluff, and who would have reckoned that the quiet couple would have produced it?

Tasty Fish (12″) – The Other Two (mp3)

(sorry for the poor quality photo of the record sleeve, but it has been taken inside the fabled cupboard where the vinyl sat feeling unloved for so many years)

Given that the songs you can listen to today are not strictly New Order songs, I’ve decided not to feature a cover version. Instead, I’m going to load the best New Order song that the band didn’t write….

In Betweendays – The Cure (mp3)

More perfect pop tomorrow.

Oh, I almost forgot. While going through the Vinyl Cupboard, I discovered a very rare and difficult to obtain New Order track. It’s the third cut on the 12″ version of ‘Perfect Kiss’. As far as I know, it’s never made any compilation on a CD, but at not much more than just over 1′ 20 secs long, it doesn’t matter too much except to completists. However, if you’re ever looked out for it, I’m glad to be have been of some help:-

Perfect Pit – New Order (mp3)

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New Order

AND I’VE NEVER SEEN ANYONE QUITE LIKE YOU BEFORE

It’s the morning after. I’m still buzzing.

It wouldn’t be right to say it was the best ever concert I’ve ever been to. It might not even have been the best New Order concert I’ve ever been to. But it was maybe the best opening and closing of a gig that I can recall since Morrissey & Marr were in their prime.

On arrival at the Carling Academy in Glasgow, we were greeted with information that the concert was being filmed. That alone gave me hope that the boys (I can call them that now that Phil has replaced Gillian – but it still seems strange) would be on top form.

At 9pm they took to the stage. Opening 3 songs?? True Faith, Regret and Ceremony. That’s right – Ceremony. I swear that Micky who was with us had tears in his eyes.

OK, it didn’t quite stay at the level of magnificence. But they threw in Joy Division‘s ‘These Days’ as an early and even more unexpected treat.

One sad thing was that Hooky, early on done his back in – probably during ‘Regret’ as he threw his shapes. He was shouting for a ‘fucking chiropractor’ not long after, and was quite clearly in agony. Like a true pro, he played on….but he was a bit statuesque. Maybe the fact he is 96 years of age has finally caught up on him.

Barney and Steven were in tremendous form. It wasn’t long before we got the Barney-Dance, which was particularly special during ‘Bizarre Love Triangle’.

The most magical moment was the opening notes of ‘Temptation.’ This, quite simply, is the song I have always referred to as the best of all time. It was also the point when the younger members of the audience (ie the 18-25 year olds – and there were more there than I imagined there would be) thought they were back at Nedstock (the short name for ‘T’ In The Park). I blame the Trainspotting soundtrack myself….

But ignoring the sudden upsurge in lager being thrown over the audience and the dozen guys in front of us forming a huddle for a ‘dance’, I closed my eyes and was taken back to the days when I was four stone lighter and didn’t rely on Red Bull to stay on the dancefloor all night.

What followed was just astonishing. The cheers had barely started when the band kicked into ‘The Perfect Kiss’….which went straight into ‘Blue Monday.’ It was, as my American friends might say, awesome.

That was the end of the main part of the gig. 5 minutes later they came back on….and Hooky had obviously been given something which helped him. He was straight up to the front of the stage and he hit the bass notes for ‘Transmission’ He stopped and hit the bass notes for ‘Shadowplay.’ He stopped again. He smiled. Barney asked the audience to shout for which of the two they wanted. I would have taken either……

And so we had an encore of Transmission and Love Will Tear Us Apart. And at 10.45, New Order left the stage. And I walked the near 3 miles home with Rachel, a sweaty but very happy man.

There’s really only one song that can get posted today. In all its original glory.

Temptation – New Order (mp3)

And here’s a rare version. Back in 1984, the band were part of a 24-hour long music day on BBC TV and Radio. They played a short set live in a BBC Studio that went out simultaneously on Radio 1 and BBC 2. The performance was a bit patchy – you only need to hear the bum notes on ‘Age of Consent’ to realise that. But by the end of the 30 minutes, they were fully in their stride..

Temptation (BBC) – New Order (mp3)

Today’s cover??? Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls. All the way from Cleveland, Ohio in the U S of A. I give you….

Temptation – Cobra Verde mp3

I better get off to work now.

Arrogants, New Order

LET’S GO OUT AND HAVE SOME FUN

And so New Order week continues apace at TVV.

The LP ‘Brotherhood’ left many NO fans a bit cold at the time of its release in 1986. It wasn’t that it was a particularly duff record – but it was a huge let-down after the quality of ‘Low Life.’ Maybe it was the pressure of financially propping up the newly opened Hacienda that caused the band to suffer an obvious dip in form. The release of ‘State of the Nation’ – the poorest single they recorded in the 80s – was another disappointment (Mind you, I quite like the different mix that was on the flip side – ‘Shame of the Nation.’)

But in an effort to make more and more money, the band began to appear on TV far more often than before – inevitably performing live with varying degrees of quality. I’ve got a few appearances from those days on video, and I will at some point get round to transferring them all to DVD and then onto ‘You Tube.’ One such clip is from 1985, on ‘The Whistle Test’ on BBC-TV live from the Hacienda. They played this song, although this particular version is from a Japanese concert:-

As It Is When It Was – New Order (You Tube clip)

I love how Barney has always found it a struggle to sing and play lead guitar at the same time – this clip is great illustration of his difficulties. And gawd, he was awfully young once (but weren’t we all?)

The release of the compilation LP ‘Substance’ followed in 1987, but it did seem that the band was running out of ideas and creative energy. But then came the majesty of 1989’s ‘Technique’. If you must own an original New Order album, it has to be this one. Every song is a belter. And my own particular favourite changes on every listen. I pulled a number out of a hat, and this came out:-

Love Less – New Order (mp3)

Tonight’s cover is a dreamy and gorgeous offering by The Arrogants. Fronted by the angelic voice of Jana Heller, this is a band who have released three very enjoyable records since 2000 – two EPs and one full- length CD.

Shellshock – The Arrogants (mp3)

Thank you for visiting.

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Iron and Wine, New Order

A NOT SO BLUE MONDAY

Still New Order week on TTV.

Today’s tracks are another nostalgia-fest. 1984/5 was my final year at University, and I was lucky enough to share a large flat with a great bunch of folk who partied more than we studied….but not so much that we were in danger of failing. Strangely enough, more than 20 years on, I’m back living in the same area of said student flat, but in ever so slightly more grandeur.

But all those years ago, the cheap little turntable in the shared lounge was always in use, and something that seemed to get played every day was ‘Low Life’, the first (of just two!!) New Order original LPs that could be classed as truly outstanding*. I say this as the best stuff seemed to come out either as 7″ or 12″ singles, and let’s be honest – many of the band’s album efforts are second rate. But thankfully, not on this 1985 recording.

All nine tracks are standouts, but none more than:-

Sub-Culture – New Order (mp3)

A much inferior mix of this song was later released as a single in November 1985. The photo at the top of this posting is of the original 1985 LP. The recording is taken from the CD version as the record was just a bit too worn-out.

I’ve also thrown in something that I found on the Internet a few months back, and my thanks to the person who originally posted it. It’s a John Peel Session version of:-

Dreams Never End – New Order

There’s times I actually prefer this to the one that Martin Hannett produced on the debut album ‘Movement’. And while excuses can be made about the history of the recording of the album with all its post-Curtis suicide baggage and other issues, the fact remains that ‘Movement’ is far from easy or enjoyable listening.

I’ve avoided the obvious attraction of posting a cover of ‘Blue Monday’ at this juncture. Instead, I’m sticking with the ‘Low Life’ theme and a stripped down version of the opening track:-

Love Vigilantes – Iron & Wine (mp3)

Iron & Wine is the name taken by American singer/songwriter Sam Beam. His music has been described elsewhere as ‘indie-folk’ which seems accurate enough judging by the cover version. Since 2002, Iron & Wine have (or has) released two albums and around a half-dozen singles and EPs.

48 hours and counting.

Oh, and the 2nd flawless New Order album is ‘Technique’. Just a pity it played such a big part in bankrupting Factory Records.

* a view I’ve since amended.  There’s more than two truly outstanding albums

THERE WERE TWO COMMENTS LEFT AT THIS POST

Anonymous said…

Gasp!

Not ‘Power, Corruption and Lies’?

WAF

(But yes, ‘Technique’ is a cracker of an album as well)

JC said…

I do love PC&L – it almost falls into the defined category….except that ‘Ecstacy’ leaves me cold. It’s all about opinions I suppose.

Devine & Statton, New Order

IT’S NEW ORDER WEEK ON T.V.V.

This coming Wednesday, I’m off to see New Order at the Carling Academy.

Quite simply, Barney, Hooky, Stephen & Gillian made records that were huge and important to me – from my late teens and onwards through university and into the big adult world of life and work. This was the band that taught me how to dance…whether that’s a good thing or not, I need to leave to the judgement of anyone who knows me.

It’s now the best part of 25 years since I first saw them live. That was Coasters in Edinburgh, and just a few days later it was Tiffany’s Ballroom in Glasgow. Since then, I’ve caught them on every tour in this part of the world, and it has to be admitted sometimes they have been rotten. Last time out however at the Barrowland (I think it was three years ago), they were magnificent, covering all aspects of the back catalogue as well as a couple of Joy Division numbers. I’m hoping for much the same this coming Wednesday.

So for the next few days, all I’m going to be posting are New Order songs along with some cover versions from various acts all around the world. Oh, and there will also at some point be a posting of the best ever New Order rip-off by an established band. Any one want to offer a guess who it might be?

First up is something that takes me back to Level 8 of Strathclyde Students Union circa 1983/4. Especially on Thursday nights when it was a lot quieter – the DJs would take requests and you had loads of space to do whatever silly dance you came up with. Life was pretty idyllic. Oh, to be that thin and have that much hair and energy once again.

Age of Consent – New Order (mp3)

Available on Power, Corruption & Lies which if you don’t own, you must buy it.

Today’s cover version is from an album released in 1989 – ‘The Prince of Wales’ by Devine & Statton.

Ian Devine was the guitarist in Ludus in the 8os – a band more famous for being the brainchild of Linder Sterling (a lifetime friend of Morrissey – an achievement in itself). Alison Statten was the lead singer in another 80s band – Young Marble Giants. Google the names for some fascinating stuff.

Bizarre Love Triangle – Devine & Statten (mp3)

It’s one of those times when a great record is changed into something totally different and remains a great record.

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Poppy Factory

SONGS THAT WERE WASTED ON THE B-SIDE (Part 2)

I have a very bad hangover today. It was a night out to say farewell to a great crowd of people who I’ve worked with for 3 years. Head hurts now and I don’t feel like writing much.

It was a friend of mine who put one of their songs on a compilation tape back in the early 90s. I picked up this single for 99p somewhere. Discovered I liked the b-side better

Little Princes – The Poppy Factory (mp3)

Can anyone enlighten me about The Poppy Factory? All I can trace on the net is they released 3 singles on the Chrysalis label and then sunk without trace. Maybe the lack of chart success stopped an album being released. But as I say, I don’t know…

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Jacques The Kipper said…

Ever had the feeling you’ve been cheated 2

I won’t mention the match cos the bastard will probably track me down and sue me, but the referee I saw today was a cheat pure and simple (every time). I’m still fuming.

Bit ironic as I note the song I’m listening to as I write is “Tell the truth”.

Can’t help you on the Poppy Factory.

NOVEMBER 2026 UPDATE

THE INFO ON THE POPPY FACTORY WOULD EVENTUALLY EMERGE AND THEY WERE THE SUBJECT OF A DETAILED POST IN JUNE 2015

Jonathan Richman

EVER HAD THE FEELING YOU’VE BEEN CHEATED??

It was something along those lines that John Lydon said at the end of the Sex Pistols last ever gig at the Roseland Ballroom in San Francisco. The same words should have been used tonight at the Oran Mor in Glasgow…..

A gig that myself and Rachel (my better half) had been looking forward to for weeks. Jonathan Richman. In a very nice venue with great acoustics.

Tickets said doors opened at 7.30pm. Thought that if we were there for 8.15pm, we’d be well on time. As it was we got there 5 minutes later than hoped for, and JR was already on stage doing his thing. The gig was every bit as exceptional as we had expected. Problem was, that at 9.10pm, JR ended proceedings.

I can’t figure out why. It was a great crowd – they joined in the clapping and singing along. Just as importantly, they were hushed during the quiet songs. JR seemed to be enjoying himself. But at 9.10 – which turns out to have been just under an hour after he first took the stage, the lights came back on.

The thing is….the showtime listed next to the mixing desk said 8.15 – 10.15pm. Rachel had a word with one of the security staff – seems they were also primed for a 2-hour show that never happened.

And at £15 plus booking fee per ticket…..it was a rip-off. And left a sour taste in the mouth.

So where you should have had something by the great man to listen to there’s nothing…………..

Still we got back nice and early in time to watch The Sopranos on E4.

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Jacques The Kipper said…

Ouch.

Just been listening for the first time in possibly years to “England, Half English” by one of your former choices, Billy Bragg. Cor blimey, guv – that album is crap in any language. Great single, one other decent tune. The rest varies from drivel to average.

Enjoying William Bloke though….

Anonymous said…

this reminds me… i ‘saw’ the happy mondays play early on. they were less than 20 minutes on the stage (!). one song. an extended, extended version of WFL. SR couldn’t stand up. Sat on the drum riser mumbling. Then he annoyed with the crowd. And swore a lot. Then he got helped off the stage and we went home. In time for tea more or less.

Pale Fountains

AND THE PUBLIC GETS WHAT THE PUBLIC WANTS

The foursome pictured above are The Pale Fountains.

From Liverpool – but not your quintessential Liverpool band. Which is maybe why I never really warmed to them. I was more of a Bunnymen, Teardrop Explodes, Wah! and whatever-Bill Drummond– was-involved- in fan, rather than this lot who I felt were a bit too much like Radio 2 or Eurovision Song Contest for my liking.

But they have many devotees out there, including Jacques The Kipper who is the first visitor to make a request. And it was anything by The Pale Fountains.

So here’s the song that got them nearest to chart success. A #48 smash from 1982.

Thank You – The Pale Fountains (mp3)*

The Pale Fountains released a handful of single and two albums on Virgin Records in between 1982 and 1985. After their demise, vocalist and chief songwriter – Michael Head – formed Shack. Another member of the band was Andy Diagram, who later on joined James at the height of their fame and played on a couple of their albums.

I suppose on reflection, this was a band just a few years ahead of their time. On listening to them again, I can hear quite a bit of the sound that made The Divine Comedy so popular – critically and commercially.

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Arab Strap, Billy Bragg

GREAT GIGS – JUST LIKE LONDON BUSES

In as much as you wait ages for them, and they come in droves.

Or even worse…..two great acts come to town on the same night.

And as for Monday 4th December 2006, it’s even worse.

Glasgow ABC – Arab Strap
Glasgow Barrowlands – The Magic Numbers supported by David Kitt
Glasgow City Halls – Billy Bragg

The thing is, I’ve already bought the ticket for Arab Strap – and as its their farewell tour, there’s no way I’m going to miss their last ever performance in Glasgow.

I’ve seen Billy Bragg umpteen times in just about every venue imaginable in Glasgow from street corners to the Barrowlands. But I’ve never seen him at the City Halls which has just undergone a massive refurbishment and become one of the best arenas in terms of acoustics that you’re ever likely to experience. Also with Billy, you get great stand-up comedy as well as musical entertainment.

David Kitt – well at least I can see him on his solo tour that precedes his support act for TMN. Except I’m out of the country on holiday.

Looks as if I’m going to have to travel around Scotland come early December…..

And dragged from the back of the cupboard 2nite…..

Greetings To The New Brunette – Billy Bragg (mp3)

As for Arab Strap, given how fed up I feel about things, I just had to select from the best miserablist record ever made – ‘Philophobia’.

It was a difficult choice, but in the end I’ve gone for the one that Adele Bethel – later to find fame in her own right as lead singer of Sons & Daughters – performs vocals on.

Afterwards – Arab Strap (mp3)

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Jacques The Kipper said…

A quandary indeed.

Just chilling out to the Pale Fountains. Any of them in your dusty vaults ?

JC said…

Dearest Jaques. I note your request…it will be accommodated in the coming days.

Crash Calloway said…

I saw Billy on the first night of this tour in Wolves and I’m going again to the Birmingham gig when that comes around in December – it was brilliant, and I’d really recommend it.

Albert Hammond Jr

LIFE SOMETIMES IMITATES ART YOU KNOW

I’ve never been stopped and surveyed on my favourite ever movie scene. If I was, there’s every chance I’d go for something from ‘High Fidelity’

You know the one…when Rob (played by John Cusack) and Barry (played by Jack Black) have a bet based on how many customers in the store will buy ‘Dry The Rain’ by The Beta Band when it gets played in the shop.

Well……….earlier today I was in Fopp in Glasgow city centre, idly passing away a spare 30 minutes. I was enjoying the sounds coming out of the speakers, but hadn’t a clue who it was. I was determined not to fall into the trap of asking the bloke behind the counter – I’m terrified I’m going to be a victim of some spectacular piss-take by someone who is lucky enough to have a job in a good record shop.

As it is, Fopp is one of those stores that displays what is being played at any point in time – so I didn’t have to ask. And it turned out, much to my surprise, to be the debut record of Albert Hammond Jr that was released just today. And I bought it. And I don’t care if me doing so resulted in Fopp’s equivalent of Rob winning his bet from Fopp’s equivalent of Barry.

Why was I surprised? For one, it sounds nothing like The Strokes. For two, Albert has a voice that can hold a tune (I don’t think he supplies backing vocals when his band play live). For three, it is consistently very good – unlike his band’s last two offerings. And for four – there’s whistling on one of the songs!

I’ve now played the album right the way through a couple of times at home, and it is every bit as enjoyable as it was in the shop a few hours ago.

Hard to Live In The City – Albert Hammond Jr *

Albert’s old man – who unsurprisingly is Albert Hammond Snr – is a famous musician and singer/songwriter in his own right (but you all probably knew that already). However, he even pre-dates an old codger like me, and I can’t post any of his tunes for your enjoyment.

But I can offer this from 1986:-

Albert Hammond Bootleg – Half Man Half Biscuit

Oh and for the hell of it:-

Dry The Rain – The Beta Band

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Jam

YOU NEVER THINK IT’S GOING TO HAPPEN TO YOU

Most of the offerings so far have been tracks that are somewhat difficult to track down. Today’s double-helping however, doesn’t fall into that category.

The Jam were probably the first band that I really got fanatical about. They remain the only act that I’ve ever queued out for tickets overnight in a sleeping bag – twice; and given its all Ticketmaster and internet access nowadays, that’s no other band that will have me do that again.

I won’t lie and say I was there from the start – it was only the release of their 3rd album – ‘All Mod Cons’ – that I really became a huge fan. But over the next 4 years until their demise in 1982, I couldn’t get enough of them. Every record was bought, every magazine that had an article was read (often in John Menzies and then put back on the shelf) and more importantly, every gig in Glasgow or Edinburgh was a must see.

It’s now 27 years since this particular offering came out – and was the last single before the band went mega. It came out just weeks before the 4th album – ‘Setting Sons’ , and the first single from that opus – ‘The Eton Rifles’ – went Top 3. Next up was ‘Going Underground’ and the rest was history. They were, by miles, the biggest band in the UK. And that’s when the need for sleeping out the night before the concert tickets went on sale kicked in….

I was a youthful 16 years of age at the time of ‘When You’re Young c/w Smithers-Jones’. And I never thought I would get old. I don’t suppose anyone at that age ever does. And I never ever imagined that like the protagonist on the b-side, I would one day be told ‘Thanks very much, but you’re nor really needed here anymore. Goodbye and close the door after you.” But it’s happened…and it was a painful experience. But I’m over it.

I was devastated when Weller broke up my favourite band. But it wasn’t too long before Morrissey & Marr brought unbridled joy into my life. However, that’s another story.

So Dig the Old Breed and listen.

When You’re Young – The Jam

Smithers- Jones – The Jam

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