MOVIE REVIEW – CHINATOWN
DIRECTED BY: ROMAN POLANSKI
WRITTEN BY: JOHN HUDSON
STARRING: JACK NICHOLSON AND FAYE DUNAWAY
(HISTORICAL FACTS FOUN ON I.M.D.B AND POSTED BY DIRKIN20 IN 2008 AND DATES FROM WIKIPEDIA)
BY: JEZEBELL AAREN MAE
Roman Polanski is known for a lot of things, director, husband of Marianne Faithful at the time of her death at the hands of Charles Manson’s ‘’family’’ or the only film maker who has to have at least thirty seconds of naked women in every movie he makes. Whatever you know him for and whether you like his style or not you have to, in some way, agree with his worthiness of being the first to appear in our Forgotten Movies fortnightly Ezine feature.
Though I am not a fan myself I have to give way and accept his 1974 movie ‘Chinatown’ to be a forgotten classic, it may not reach the heights in our esteem as either ‘Labyrinth’ or ‘Pump Up The Volume’ but with its complicated story, partly based on true events of the California Water Wars which began in 1898, Polanski and Hudson pull off a somewhat entertaining crime drama. However, not all ‘classics’ are good movies which is why you may note a sense of dislike in the oncoming review; because really, why does the first review in a new Magazine or Ezine have to be a good one? That’s what everybody else does.
The movie is very well paced and delegates its two and a half hours well between action storyline and the necessary ‘middle bits’ that all movies have. When I first read a review I thought that this may not be the case and that I was in for another lengthy what-can-I-day-dream-about-in- the-middle Roman Polanski movie, but, was relieved to find that even when there was no action to be had there was still something going on (not something Polanski is known to me for.) There is little by way of soundtrack and score which may lead some to see why it is the length it is, but like the un-made movie where the entire plot comes out in the sex scene, the not happening action is the action.
This may be because it is such an intricate and complicated story or it may just be because ‘Chinatown’ is an attempt at a psychological crime thriller while at the same time not being psychological.
What music there is usually appears when there is no dialog and is more of an explanation or justification for what is happening on our screens or in the aspect of the movie at hand, it works against the action whereas, in other movies the score works with what is happening. And, unless to denote culture and/or personality traits is relatively un-appealing, though, at the same time works for the scene at hand and perfectly portrays what Polanski was trying to do and say. It can be said that all music in movies work this way, but I disagree, to me it is simply a Polanski trait, which I fully understand and just fails to by engaging. Also, given whom the director is the slightly disjointed music was more than likely a purposeful decision chosen to entice the audience, another Polanski trait that is what so many believe are responsible for his acclaim and what I see to be the reason for the opposite.
Faye Dunaway is as usual Faye Dunaway, not meant as a slur on her ability as an actress but merely an observation that whichever character she portrays she brings an element of herself – an aspect that has come to dissipate over her career. Nicholson, again not an actor that springs to mind but is still nonetheless a good performer who has created many an enjoyable movie - for with Nicholson, .you can tell when he likes the roll he’s been given in comparison to the ones he doesn’t.
I recommend seeing this movie as one of those to able to say you have seen and not missed out on, one of the aspects that makes it worth seeing is that it comes full circle, involving characters at the end that it did in the start and it remains constant throughout un-like a lot of movies that fit into the same class.
If you have seen the movie before and, no doubt, didn’t remember it then it is worth watching again just to be reminded of what you felt, thought and experienced the first time - something I recommend for all movies you haven’t seen in a while. If you have not and/or choose not to see it then it is no considerable loss, however, if you do decide to see it either again or for the first time it is a movie worth having seen – even if it is just once. ‘Chinatown’ is one of those movies to watch from a recording so you can stop and start it therefore watching it in your time and probably appreciating it more as opposed to all at once. Anyway you chose to watch it you will either feel gratified or cheated by the twist at the end by means of understanding or liking of the two main characters which the story eventually revolves around.
MOVIE REVIEW – BLACK RAIN
DIRECTED BY: RIDLEY SCOTT
STARRING: ANDY GARCIA AND MICHAEL DOUGLAS
(HISTORICAL FACTS FOUN ON I.M.D.B AND POSTED BY DIRKIN20 IN 2008 AND DATES FROM WIKIPEDIA)
BY: JEZEBELL AAREN MAE
And now for a true classic and the real first “Forgotten Classic’’ of our alternative Ezine, Ridley Scott’s 1989 thriller ‘Black rain,’ I can but hope you have at least heard of this movie but then it would almost fail in its claim. It follows the story of two New York cops who travel to Japan when they are charged with retuning a captured Yakuza member to his native country. And, at first, inadvertently walk right into the middle of a Yakuza war, I know typically stupid foreigners. But sadly, the Yakuza know exactly what to do with them and then ensues an all embodying story of murder, justice, honour and true friendship.
Douglas and Garcia are fantastic in what is perhaps the best work of their careers, they both shine equally and share the weight of the movie together - unlike in some where one actor will carry the whole thing and the others are merely just there. I refuse to describe the particulars of the story or relate the in trepidation as nothing I can write can portray what you get with the reality unfolding right in front of you when you watch it.
As in all good and better movies the soundtrack increases the extremity of each and every individual stir we feel and ‘Black Rain’ is no different, every note coveys pretty much exactly what you are feeling because of the story. Every indifference you might have in your opinion or lack of emotion you can still see it in the movie, understand what the individual characters are going through and what each action they make means to them. Yes, I know, it is just a movie but who doesn’t get involved with what they are engaged in?
A rhetorical question, do not make me answer it.
The piece as a whole is very well structured and though lacks in imagery makes up for it in cinematography which captures the vastness of every instance even the trivial aspects that take place in confined spaces. Eastern tradition and sensibilities meet Western stereotypes and combine perfectly in this timeless modern classic - ‘Black Rain’ is an all encompassing tale that should have its place in all our movie collections
|
Iggy & The Stooges - Raw Power
Classic albums should be deemed ‘classic’ not because of the sheer number of records they’ve sold commercially (although in some cases that is a factor – but by no means an important one), but how they were able to withstand the musical whims of generational fads. How they managed to capture the imagination of their audience and reflect the feel and voice of a generation. Raw Power by Iggy & The Stooges does exactly this.
Originally released in 1973 and then re-released again in the late 90s, Raw Power quite literally exploded onto the record players of the young, angry and disillusioned youth, capturing the essence of the early punk era. This re-mastered edition sounds markedly different from the original produced by David Bowie. Re-mastered by Iggy Pop himself (in collaboration with Bruce Dickinson), it is apparently a more accurate representation of how he wanted the album to sound. It is raw and powerful – pun intended. The really title doesn’t lie, summing it up perfectly in a nutshell.
Opening track Search and Destroy is an unforgettable anthem - strong, forceful and ever so demanding. The roaring, sweaty, sleazy and wild but seductive vocals just add to that menacing feel. It’s nihilistic, extreme, dirty and threatening.
Gimme Danger is by far the highlight but you have to wait until a minute in before it really kicks in, with its punchy guitars and rising intensity - it oozes of The Doors. Williamson simply explodes. Lyrically, its emotion is disturbing and yet is paradoxically sincere. It’s energetic, fearful, brutal, fierce, violent and vicious with its pounding drums and the self destructive playing of instruments. The end is near; you can feel its urgency throughout the album. Its impending doom lingers. After all, it was their third and final album with all the original members playing together for the last time. Other tracks such as Your Pretty Face Is Going to Hell, Penetration, and Shake Appeal are all drenched in annihilating, bloodthirsty and exhilarating vocals.
Though punk was at its very beginnings in 1973, many attribute the release of this album as kick starting the whole movement. Ahead of it’s time, it was ‘punk’ before the term was even coined. It captures the essence and spirit apparent in many punk bands emerging in the years 76-77. Its effect on both its contemporaries and successors is clearly apparent. The Ramones in particular, incorporated that wild self destructive style, except on a faster and more intense level. Love it or loathe it, Raw Power is without a doubt a powerful album, leaving its imprint on rock n roll.
Click Here To Buy Iggy Pop Stuff
|
SONIC BOOM SIX & SUPPORT
August 6th - The Peel, Kingston
Now, it's no secret that I'm a huge SB6 fan. The last time I was seen in public not wearing some sort of Boom merchandise was somewhere in the middle of 2006 and the last time I missed a London show was sometime before that. So, I think it's a forgone conclusion that I enjoyed this show immensely. But, nonetheless, I wouldn't be doing my duty were I not to report it to you!
The show, on this fateful evening, opened with the almighty Mouth Wash. A rag-tag bunch of London boys bringing a upbeat punky-reggae party that has been missing for quite some time. Definitely worth a watch as they rise up the ranks - Check out True Stories for a great album. Bringing a lot of energy to the stage with plenty of audience participation on the choruses - something that I find adds immensely to the enjoyment of a show. These guys are worth checking out the next time they're back in town, with an album well worth ten of your hard earned pounds.
Now, to my personal low-point of the evening. Random Hand. A lot of people like these guys and I can understand why. They're a lot of fun to watch and they have some good ideas going on. My main issue though, is the fact that the styles don't really gel together, in my eyes. I'm a big fan of the mashup of genres and these guys don't disappoint in that respect, bringing skacore, punk, hardcore and even a touch of metal to the table. But I find that they don't blend them together very well, leading to some very jarring changes within the songs themselves. While I personally don't like them, I'd recommend you give them a look in should you find yourself at a loose end, because you might get it where I don't.
Onto one of my favorite discoveries of last year - The Skints. Bringing an absolutely amazing sound, reminiscent of the old school days, with fantastic melodies and beautiful harmonies. Again, a bunch of east London folk bringing a lot of energy. This time, they didn't play any of their more skacore-esque tunes, which did them a huge favour, as they suit the more melodic ska-reggae sound that they're currently bringing to the table. A lot of energy and some great tunes that really show off their stronger points. They have a slight lack of stage presence, I personally felt, but the performance itself more than makes up for it. Check these guys out towards the end of the year when they release their Rebel Alliance debut album.
Sonic Boom Six. What can I say about them? I almost feel a little bit biased, what with already being a huge fan. Although why would I go watch them were I not a fan? Exactly. So, as usual, they bring their usual mix of punk, reggae, hip-hop, drum & bass and various other genres to the table with an incomparable energy. You can see these guys genuinely love what they're doing and are grateful to be allowed to do it and this really comes across in the performance. Playing a mixture of old and new (Although nothing from the debut Sounds to Consume album, sadly) there was something that everyone could enjoy. Audience participation is again something these guys excel at, giving mics to audience members, people on stage to sing along, these are all regular occurrences and this night was no exception. I'm trying to restrain myself slightly here with this review, as they are my favorite band, but these guys really rocked the house and I had an awesome time as always.
Finally, let me give a shout to the Peel for being an ace venue with a great sound system, awesome sound engineer and cheap but half decent pints. Also to Banquet Records for putting on the show. Always a good night.
Click Here To Buy Some Sonic Boom Six Stuf
|
FAITH NO MORE - Tel Aviv
One of the greatest live shows I think I have ever seen. Maybe it was the fact I was on holiday. Maybe it was the fact I’d spent the day in Jerusalem. Maybe it was a lot of things, but I really believe that it was mostly due to the fact it really was just a great gig, as well as a great moment in Rock n Roll history. This moment was Faith No More in Tel Aviv, on the last date of their tour!!
Now I can hear some of the cynics shouting “it’s not Faith No More, there’s no Jim Martin on guitar and where that might have been their classic era, he wasn’t even the original guitarist. That honour belongs to a man called Mark Bowen, in fact Mike Patton wasn’t even the original vocalist, a very charismatic individual called Chuck Mosley had that role. Mike Patton only joined in 1988, originally they were even call Faith no Man, so let’s get over the “it’s only Mike and Roddy with a backing band rants shall we, this definitely was Faith No More and it definitely rocked harder than a lot of gigs I’ve seen.
Kicking off the show with their now classic opening, the cover of Re-United, but somehow it was much more camp than the time they did it at Download, then almost without taking a breath, they launched straight into From out of Nowhere and the crowd in Tel Aviv went crazy. From then on it was relentless classic after relentless classic, with a set list as follows – Be Aggressive, Caffeine, Surprise! You're Dead! (that one made everyone shout loud), Last Cup of Sorrow and Cuckoo for Caca calmed everyone down a little, then Easy seemed to give everyone a well deserved break. A break they didn’t realise they were gonna need to cope with Midlife Crisis and Epic, the Bee Gees cover of I Started a Joke was just comical and very Faith No More. Other classic moments included Stripsearch being blended up with the theme from Chariots Of Fire, and Midnight Cowboy was as awesome as ever!!
I wish there was more I could say, but all I have to say is … It was one of the best gigs of my life and an incredible memory I will cherish for a long long time!! :)
|
 TURBULENT SOUNDSCAPE & REVENGE NEWS
Turbulent Soundscape (DJ Rex)
Fright Nite in Staines every weds, has moved back to the Phoenix, still free entry.
The nite now features 3 rooms,
one with everything Rock n Metal, plus a few surprises,
the other room hosts Indie, Power Pop, Ska, 60’s etc etc
and a new chill out room!!
Then there’s our monthly nite in Bournemouth, Equilibrium at the Sound Circus, the 3rd Friday each month, returning in Oct, featuring a live set from Pythia http://www.pythiamusic.com/
Recently I was off to Tel Aviv to Dj on 28th of August 09, at a party called massacre pics form this club nite are here www.turbulentsoundscape.com/gallery2
Next trip is Athens to Dj at Second Skin on the 19th of Sept!!
Don’t forget, we might have your picture in our archive section, head to www.turbulentsoundscape.com
On to Revenge (DJ Rex)
We’re back on the last Sat in September, with 3 rooms of the best alternative music ever
Main Room – Industrial, Techno, Alternative, 80’s, Electro
Room 2 – Guitar driven wonders, with a Rock n Metal twist
Room 3 - Rock n Roll, 50s Post Punk, Ska, Psychobilly,
The big announcement – in September – we have a very special guest Dj –
Ian Fford, New York’s original Albion/Bat Cave Dj, the one time main man at the legendary venue, The Bank, currently putting together Revenge in NYC and resident Dj at Splash, New York’s biggest Gay Club!!
all details on www.revengepromotions.com Plenty of good times ahead, so we hope to see you at the bar, on the dancefloor and outside smoking!! :)
And nowwww, Schism (Tom Wavre)
If you missed Schism in September you missed a record breaking beauty of a night. Turns out Back 2 School mixed with traffic light night = a smegging good time.
Whether you were there or not, Schism is back on Friday 2nd October with the usual mix of great music, cheap drinks deals, free scratch cards (where you can win free booze for the night), but most importantly a fecking great atmosphere!
And if you're tired of waiting a month between Schisms, get yourself down the Remix Bar every Friday and get drunk (you're in Woking, what else you gonna do?) with Schism DJ Alan providing the tunes.
Visit www.clubschism.com or our facebook to get all pics, event info and other news as it happens.
|
SONIC BOOM SIX - CITY OF THIEVES
Remember when you were 15 years old and ska-punk seemed like the best thing that ever happened to music? Well, ladies and gentlemen, it still is, I can assure you.
Not that I wish to do SB6 any disservice, merely calling them a ska-punk band is a little insulting, with the massive mash-up of styles that they bring to the table - hip hop, reggae, drum & bass and more come across on this latest offering, City of Thieves.
Opening with the scene setting "(Welcome to the) City of Thieves", this album is a non-stop barrage of ideas and politics delivered with a passion that seems to be lacking from the majority of artists these days. Dealing with issues as wide and varied as school ground popularity (and the continuation of it into our supposedly grown-up society) and the nature of the big brother culture that is springing up around us.
Now, personally I love this album. I know that a lot of people won't, however. It's wide variety of styles across the album can lead it to feeling a little lacking in each individual area if you're looking for a more straightforward album. For people who've not experienced SB6, I would recommend listening to their earlier album "A Ruff Guide to Genre Terrorism" before jumping into this one.
Overall, it's a fantastic album from a consistently great band - the only complaint from my point of view is that it is a little sample heavy. Most of the time this doesn't concern me, but at times it can get a little tedious if you just want to hear the song.
Two thumbs up, five stars or 10/10. However you want to quantify it, this is a fucking great album.
|
LUKE BELL - PANIC CELL
Dj Rex catches up with Luke Bell, vocalist for Panic cell, probably the best UK metal act in the world, another casualty in the demise of Woolworths, with an interesting relationship with Cider!!
Tell me about the journey you took to become Panic Cell
A long and winding road......
What music are you listening to right now? Apart from your own.
The new Skindred album, I am round Aryas (skindred drummers) house at the moment checking out their new tunes.. they rock like a bastard.
Do you like to sing in the shower?
Hell yeah-always a great place to sing...the added bonus of irritating the neighbours too
What genre of music do you consider your work to be and who would you say are your major influences?
God, genres...umm....we're a rock/metal band. I don’t really do genres very well......people talk about vegitarian progressive grindcore bands, superblack metal....its all metal to me!
Ok, confession time - what’s the most embarrassing single or album you own?
Embarrassing? hmm.....no idea.
What and where would your dream gig be??
I would say a secret gig supporting Metallica at a small club/venue like the Underworld in Camden. That would be insane.
Tell us some of the highlight gigs and venues you have performed?
Download in 2005 and 2007,both were amazing, supporting Disturbed at the Astoria in 2005 was one I will never forget either, incredible show.
Do you have any upcoming shows?
Not as yet, we've spent so much time on the new album, we haven’t looked to play any shows just yet....our agent is booking some for us as I type...
Best and worst on stage moment??
Best … walking onstage and saying "Hello Castle Donnington", that ruled.
Worst...losing my voice in the middle of a show in Cardiff on a tour with American Head Charge and Soil. I was devastated.
How long have you all known each other and is there a fun story as to how Panic Cell met?
We have known each other for a very long time, Harj and I have been in bands together for 15 years now - Panic cell was pretty much a band that we got together for a laugh-the first gig I think we did was my wedding!
Do you have a record label?
Currently no-feel free to sign us! We released our last album, “What Doesn’t Kill Us”, through our own label Anthill Records, but the distributor, Pinnacle, collapsed when Woolworths went under scuppering our fledgling label!
What can you tell the readers about your instruments? (i.e., are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever's available? What made you choose the instruments you play now?
The band have had long standing endorsements with some companies...Peavey, Line 6, ESP and Sennheiser have been incredible supporters for the band, as have Tama. Things may change in the future, but right now we are loving using the equipment from these guys, and have done since the band started properly.
Which songs do you perform most frequently?
Save Me and Away From Here. I don’t think we have not played those since we wrote them, some time ago now...
Do you ever play any covers and if you do, what made you choose that particular track to cover?
We throw the odd cover in for a laugh in long sets, or when we want to play something odd.... last cover was Duality by Slipknot I think-we know loads of different ones...I would say we could probably play 20 Metallica tracks if we needed to tomorrow-all the guys love messing around playing their favorite songs
Who writes your songs?
It’s a joint effort really, Harj and Kelly write the riffs, I deal with most of the vocal, melodies and lyrics, Bobby and Rob interject with ideas constantly too to improve the songs. It really is a group effort.
What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?
Ah....there’s a lot about my relationships in the past....and even the odd one about my present lady. More of the last 2 albums were about these-the new one not so much so.... its a lot of emotional outlet for me....that kind of bullshit!
Do you think these topics will change over time?
Absolutely!
Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
Riffs get written first and organised into song structures, then we work on vocal melodies to go over the riffs, and finally lyrics get written...
What are your rehearsals generally like?
Smokey ;-) and usually involving a few beers for everyone but me.
How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
I would defiantly say yes- listening to our first album and now the new tracks on album 3, I would like to say there’s a good progression there.
What has been your biggest challenge as a band?
Balance between home and band. Some of the band are family men, so time can be precious for us.. it can be a real strain
What's your ultimate direction for your band? Are you seeking massive fame and fortune?
Hell yeah!!!
No.....we love playing the music we play, we write for ourselves. If it happens to sell 2000 or 20,000,000 then so be it. we would all love to be on the road constantly and earning a fortune, I would not deny that, but we wouldn’t sacrifice anything to do it musically, we play what we play.
What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
Just do it, its the best fun you could ever have, it really is. I love it.
if you want to do it professionally tho, you have to be totally dedicated to it, forsaking much else of your life. It can be tough
How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs?
Like every band in the world, we have a myspace page www.myspace.com/paniccell, go check the songs out, they rock!
Is there anyone you'd like to acknowledge for giving you support over the years??
Loads of people, from our parents and other family to the guys at Copro Casket, who released out first album with us, our agent Dan Devita who has worked hard for the band for years, and all of the equipment people listed above...
Ok, the silly questions -
On line or real shops??
Real shops, all the way
What is your biggest weakness?"
Cider!
What are your biggest strengths?"
Cider!
What is the one, single food that you would never give up?
Lamb. I love it way too much
Where do you want to be in 5 years?
Playing big gigs and festivals all over the world.
Have you ever gone cow-tipping?
Noooooo
What should your catchphrase/life's motto be?
It’s just life baby!
What do you dream about?
I never remember my dreams sadly..
Have you ever gambled at a casino?
Yes, a few times, and lost every time too!
Favorite tv show
24
Strangest thing a fan has ever said to you
Can I lick the sweat off your head.
What scares you the most and why
Spiders- i really struggle with them, don’t know why.
What do you do in your free time?
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.....tour manage other bands.
Do you like chocolate?
Hell yeah
Do you scream on roller coasters?
I'd scream if someone tried to get me on one!
Do you like rainy days or snowy winter, summer days or spring time?
Springtime, all the way
What makes you bored?
I haven’t been bored since 1981....I really don’t know
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Japan I haven’t been there yet, really want to go
Any last words?
The battery on my laptop is about to die!
Click Here To Buy Some Panic Cell Albums
|
CLUB LISTINGS
Click here for Essex club listings
LONDON!
Click here for London club listings
SURREY & BERKS!
Click here for Surrey/Berkshire club listings
Thu 17 Sep
Massive Attack O2 Academy Brixton, London
Thu 17 Sep
Florence and The Machine O2 Academy, Bristol
Thu 17 Sep
Howling Bells Electric Ballroom, London
Fri 18 Sep
Coldplay Wembley Stadium, London
Fri 18 Sep
The Used The Garage, Glasgow
Sat 19 Sep
Coldplay Wembley Stadium, London
sat 19 Sep
The Wildhearts Rock City, Nottingham
Mon 21 Sep
Stereophonics Electric Ballroom, London
Mon 21 Sep
Massive Attack O2 Academy Brixton, London
Tues 22 Sep
Band of Skulls, Barfly London
|
Band: IAMX
Album: Kingdom Of Welcome Addiction
Reviewed by: Kim Kosnar
Kingdom of Welcome Addiction is the 3rd release from UK artist IAMX. IAMX is the stage name of Chris Corner who was first brought onto the scene through the Sneaker Pimps and had a fair amount of success doing so. With this album it seems that he was tired of having to answer questions about his lifestyle and if IAMX is his real personality or just a persona. Many of the themes in Kingdom of Welcome Addiction distance themselves from his previous albums. With this album it is filled with much more familiar themes in the industrial genre; pain and longing rather than the more debaucherous fare that we have previously heard from him.
The title track from this album is a powerful one, with an almost epic kind of drama to it. The song has a kind of frantic quality to it conveying the ramblings of a pain filled, cluttered mind. “I am Terrified” is probably one of the most revealing songs he has ever released. It’s a beautiful song that Chris himself has described as “an exposing, naïve, therapy ballad.” An orchestra in Berlin called The Unfall Orchestra recorded the strings and horns and it comes together in a brilliant heart-wrenching ballad of vulnerability.
If there was anything I could ask of IAMX to improve the listen ability of their music, it would be to change up the vocal effect from song to song. He seems to have one range, one sound and whereas the music may change from song to song the vocal feeling and effects do not. There are many times listening to his albums where the power and emotion of the music are sapped by the underpowered range of the overlying vocal track.
Overall Kingdom of Welcome Addiction is comparable to his other albums. He has a sound, and he’s good at doing it. This album continues down the same path as Kiss and Swallow and The Alternative without much change or growth musically. Honestly, sometimes that is a welcome thing. Once you find an artist that you enjoy sometimes you just want them to continue to do what they are good at. There are fewer things more disappointing then looking forward to the release of an album to find that they have gone some weird new direction and they no longer resemble the artist you loved (*cough Metallica). I am all for personal growth and a musician honing their skills as they find out what they are good at and experiment with new things, but sometimes it’s just nice to get what you expect from an album.
|
Depeche Mode
Sounds of The Universe Tour
Madison Square Garden, August 3rd, 2009
Reviewed by: Ian Fford
Disclaimer: If I see something wrong with a show, I will not hesitate to state it. That having been said, I found this concert was perfect in every way.
Depeche Mode's sensory delight at Madison Square Garden was sold out and I was lucky to be there. To say "The show was amazing" is an understatement.... I don't drink or do drugs, but I left the concert high!
They opened with two tracks from their new album and went into an number of classics. I don't think the playlist could have been in a better order, and for that reason I really don't want to give it away. Thinking back on it, it made sense, but at the time each song came as one nice surprise after the other. The real treat was a duet by Dave Gahan and Martin Gore sung on a runway out in the crowd... you can probably guess but I'm not saying which one.
The visuals were stunning. It reminded me of watching Underworld's music videos, they make sense but you don't consciously understand why. The screen had an LCD hemisphere near the top and they made incredible use of it and the screens on each side of the stage. Perfectly orchestrated lighting completed this spectacular presentation - four curved trusses on winches, each loaded with moving head lights, plus plenty of stationary truss lighting and a giant LCD panel behind the stage... all working together so perfectly as to move you out of this reality and into a two hour music video.
Dave Gahan still has that mysterious 'it', and he commanded the audience with his mere presence. He knew when to let the crowd sing, made us clap, dance and jump. He exuded more and more sexuality as the concert went forward. Martin Gore did a couple of solo numbers as well. His energy is more reserved than Dave Gahan's, creating a nice balance.
In short, the show was genius and will be hard to top... by anyone. I was on my feet for two hours and it felt simultaneously like fifteen minutes and twenty years. I was hesitant on this latest album, now I'm hooked.
Click Here For Some Great Depeche Mode Items
|
 Les Paul: A Retrospective
1915 - 2009
How many of you had heard the news? That one of the most defining people in the history of modern music has sadly passed away? Here, I'm going to provide a retrospective on the life of Les Paul, as he revolutionized the face of music forever..
|
| Les Paul, as you are probably aware, helped to shape the way solid body guitars were made, with his infamous Gibson Les Paul. While I'm not personally a fan of these guitars - for me the bridge sits too high for me to play comfortably in the fashion I am accustomed to - I can't deny the fact that the reason they have remained a staple of the music world is because they are damn good - Everybody at some point or another who has ever played a guitar has almost guaranteed to have played a Les Paul at some point in their life. In fact, Les Paul had made his own solid body guitar in the 1930s, long before Fender created theirs in the 40's, but Gibson had no interest until Fender began marketing theirs. |
 |
Fun fact time, ladies and gentlemen - The Gibson SG was originally meant to be the "Les Paul 2", if you will, apart from one minor detail - Les Paul didn't like it, had his name removed from it and would only be seen using it out of obligation for the contract. Eventually it became renamed and Les Paul resumed endorsing the original Les Paul. The Les Paul design has changed very little over the years, which really goes to show how outstanding a guitar it is, to have remained the same since the early 1950's. I won't reel off a list of artists that use these guitars, as it would be far too long for this article, plus anyone who's ever been to a gig has probably seen one being played by at least one of the acts.
I shall now move onto what is probably his most important creation, which redefined the way people created music. Multitrack recording. A quick overview for those of you who are not aware, this is basically where all the individual parts are recorded separately and then played back together. This allows a much bigger sound and even the adding of extra instrumental tracks (such as a rhythm guitar track underneath a lead solo in a band with only one guitarist, for example). |
Before Les Paul, nothing like this had ever been done - at least, not documented and certainly never released. Until Les Paul innovated on his 1948 recording "Lover (When You're Near Me)", where he played 8 separate guitar parts on a song, which was obviously unheard of at the time. This led way for other people to take the idea and run with it, where it eventually evolved into the recording process that we know today. He also innovated with overdubbing, which essentially sound-on-sound and also with delay effects - Quite the back catalogue for a man most people only know as a make of guitar.
Now, we get to my personal favourite part – the music. As you'd expect from someone with one of the most prominent guitar makes in history that also completely changed the face of recording, he has quite a vast discography. He's always been a jazz player with a touch of blues within his very distinctive sound. Also recording with his wife of the time Mary Ford, he had some hits but nothing that has really carried on into the modern day as a classic. Which is a shame, as some of the guitar work is absolutely sublime, again influencing the sound of rock music for years to come. I would personally recommend that you go check out some of Les Paul's recorded stuff, with such a vast back catalogue, he's bound to have written something that you'll love
|
 |
 |
 |
I won't go into Paul's personal life, I feel that his life as a person and as a musician are two separate things and I'm here to pay respects to a man that innovated and continued playing on a regular basis until way beyond his 90th year. So, ladies and gentlemen, please, raise a glass, tip your hats, put on your favourite album and let us toast the man that made it all possible
Rest In Peace, Les. The world wouldn't have been the same without you.
Jeff Beck (The Yardbirds/solo) purchased his first Les Paul, a 1959 model, for £150 while still a member of The Yardbirds. Beck's fascination with the guitar sprang as much from his interest in Les Paul, the man, as from his love of the guitar itself. Beck told an interviewer: "It had a deep powerful sound and you could use it to imitate just about anything - violin, sax, cello, even a sitar." Beck also used an "oxblood" coloured 1954 Les Paul Standard, with PAF pickups, from 1972-1976 and is pictured with the guitar on the cover artwork of his Blow by Blow album.
Marc Bolan (T.Rex) used Les Paul Standards. His main Les Paul model was refinished in an opaque orange to resemble the Gretsch guitars played by his hero Eddie Cochran
Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails/Guns N' Roses) mainly uses Gibson Les Paul guitars with variation in woods and pickups between them.
|
|
|
Mick Jones (The Clash/Big Audio Dynamite/ Carbon/Silicon) used a Les Paul Junior, Les Paul Standard, several Les Paul Customs, and a Melody maker during his tenure with The Clash. He currently uses Les Paul Junior Double Cut.
John Lennon used a J-160E while with The Beatles. As a solo artist, Lennon used a Les Paul Special and a modified Les Paul Junior. Gibson makes a limited-edition replica of his J-160E and an "inspired by" John Lennon Les Paul replicating the modified Junior
Bob Marley (Bob Marley and The Wailers) used a Les Paul Special. The guitar is buried with him in his mausoleum. Gibson has released a Bob Marley Signature Les Paul Special.
Other famous users also include -
Dave Grohl,
George Harrison,
Lenny Kravitz,
Gary Moore,
Keith Richards,
Slash,
Eddie Van Halen, |
|
|
'Nymphetamine’ – Cradle of Filth, Released 2004 through Roadrunner Records
Album Cover Review - Sarah Clow
I’m gonna start off this entirely new section by reviewing the album art for Cradle of Filth’s ‘Nymphetamine’ cover. Now, there are two covers in which I am about to describe, and I was lucky enough to get first hand info from both designers about these covers.
I’m gonna start off with the original release, it was designed by American artists Matt and Aimee Lombard, who designed the inner sleeve designs as well as the cover.
This cover strikes me as, in some strange way, very beautiful, in that it is almost as if the Vampiress is about to jump into the inferno in front of her, but is looking back to say goodbye to a lover or to rethink this dilemma!
I was lucky enough to receive replying emails from Matt Lombard himself, as I was initially doing an art project for college. He was kind enough to tell me the story behind the artwork and to let me use his information in this ezine!
The story goes that the concept came from the band, though this cover, which features a female in Hell at the edge of a fiery pit, to her left is a Hellhound lunging towards her, was all Lombard’s vision. The band’ concept, however, did not make it to the shelves. His idea was of ‘Bacchus, with Nymphs vying for his attentions’. Bacchus, also known as Dionysus (from Greek mythology), and his divine mission, is linked with a possible relationship to the ‘cult of the souls’ and his ability to preside over communication between the living and the dead.
Artist John Coulthart, who was also kind enough to email me information on his design, designed the cover of the re-released special edition of the album. I find this design to be simplistic, yet intricate. The design came as a result of the band asking for something decorative that would be in contrast with the booklet. The final design was created in Adobe Illustrator as a black graphic, it was printed in bronze foil on black.
The name Nymphetamine is the words nymphomaniac and amphetamine blended together to form one word.
Dani Filth says the title track refers to a drug like like addiction to the woman in question, with Vampyre qualities, bringing her lover back from the brink of the spiritual grave, only to bury him deeper. The album is written in the style of Edgar Allan Poe’s works, leaving you thinking that despite the characters inner agonies, he is really a sucker for punishment who readily enjoys the terrible highs and lows of his relationship with the alluring and filthy, depreciative Succubus.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dionysus#Modern_views 20/08/09
www.johncoulthart.com
www.mattlombard.com
Click Here To Buy This Album
|
Vampyre Connexion
|
 AUNTIE ALICE SAYS...
Well it was Friday night at the WYRD fetish club.. and he wants to know what I am doing for a performance??
I get up on the stage and dance a little and slowly remove my leather mini skirt... revealing a tiny black thong.. then my leather basque is removed by one of the WYRD girls.... revealing a strapless black lacy bra... I bend over the leather stool with my long blonde hair dropping to the floor and my stockinged legs spread wide apart .....
Two WYRD girls spank my bare buttocks making me squeal with delight. I writhe around on the stool and scream with anticipation as they come towards me with candles dripping with hot wax.... mmmm... the wax is dripping slowly from four candles as they pour it over my bare skin.... drip drip on my wrist moving up my arm drip drip across my shoulders.... slowly down my back – it’s too delightful... I squeal again and again... the wax is dripping down between my legs across my red spanked buttocks... then slowly down the back of my legs as my black silk stockings are removed....
He came across to the stage and grabbed my wrists slowly turning me over on the stool so I lay on my back.... and the wax was being slowly dripped back up my legs... between my thighs... I writhed and squealed... the hot was drip drip onto my thong the heat making its way through to my clit... give me more... the wax drip drip up my body my wrists still held down and a WYRD girl now holding my ankles... the other WYRD girl pulls off my bra and the hot wax is pouring onto my breast – my nipples hard and now shining with wax... I want more... I am as horny as hell.
Then the tall guy who had been watching silently in the dark corner of the room comes through the cheering crowd... he gently removes my thong and as he pushes his finger inside me, he nods approvingly.... oh yes, I am so wet...
The WYRD girls move away but my wrists are still held – the tall guy kneels down and very slowly licks my clit with expertise.... I can’t hold myself back and slowly move myself towards him stretching my body as far as I can... he grabs my red hot buttocks in his big hands and licks me hard and fast... The crowd are shouting and cheering – the guy holding my wrists kisses my face and slowly licks down my neck to my nipples..... as he sucks harder he bites gently making my nipples even harder...
I groan with sheer bliss as the tall guy stands over me revealing a thick p*nis hard and throbbing ... he lowers himself to push himself inside me.... slow at first then harder and harder...
I looked up at the guy holding my wrists... was he happy with the performance?? He did not have to say anything... as he grinned and came all over my breasts... so what’s your fetish?
|
