Leicester Bangs

Harrison Ford honoured by US cinematographers...

2012-01-31T15:36:00.003Z

Harrison Ford is to be presented with an outstanding achievement award by the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC).

The Star Wars and Indiana Jones star will be honoured at a ceremony in Hollywood on 12 February.

Ford was given a lifetime achievement award by the American Film Institute (AFI) in 2000.

He has also been nominated for four Golden Globes, the last one coming in 1996 for the comedy Sabrina.

In 2002, the Hollywood Foreign Press awarded Ford, 69, with their Cecil B. DeMille Award.

The actor recently starred in sci-fi movie Cowboys and Aliens opposite Daniel Craig, Olivia Wilde and Sam Rockwell.

He is currently working on another sci-fi movie Ender's Game, based on a short story by Orson Scott Card.

Ford's other credits include Witness, which earned him an Oscar nomination in 1985, Blade Runner and The Fugitive.

The ASC gives the outstanding achievement award annually for advancing the art and craft of film-making.

Previous recipients include Julia Roberts, Warren Beatty and Francis Ford Coppola.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16807661

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Lowest record sales on Official Album Chart in 17 years...

2012-01-31T15:23:00.003Z

The Official Album Chart saw its lowest sales in nearly 17 years last week as Ed Sheeran returned to the top spot.

The singer's debut record, +, went back to number one for the first time since September with sales of 20,607.

That is the lowest total since September 1995 when the Levellers' Zeitgeist was top with 13,885 sales.

Coldplay's latest album Mylo Xyloto rose to number two with Adele's record-breaking 21 falling to number three with weekly sales dipping to 19,394.

Nearly half of Coldplay's total sales were from digital downloads.

Adele's second record has sold 3,855,537 copies in its 52 weeks on release in the UK with its top total standing at 257,731 on its 10th week on the chart.

January is traditionally a quieter time of year for album releases, and coupled with higher spending before Christmas, has seen fewer people buying records.

Sales should pick up again this month with the release of several high profile records, including Emeli Sandé's Our Version of Events.

Lana Del Rey's debut Born To Die sold 50,000 copies alone on its first day of release on Monday (30 January).

The Brits also take place on 21 February.

Sales have also been slow in the US, where for the first time five albums entered the Billboard top 10 with fewer than 20,000 copies sold last week.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/16808049

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Jack White to release debut solo album in April...

2012-01-31T13:56:00.003Z

Jack White has revealed he will release his debut solo album in April.

The singer and guitarist says Blunderbuss is "an album I couldn't have released until now".

He added: "I've put off making records under my own name for a long time but these songs feel like they could only be presented under my name."

White has previously been a member of a several bands - including The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather.

Describing the new material, White said: "These songs were written from scratch, had nothing to do with anyone or anything else but my own expression, my own colours on my own canvas."

The album will be released on Third Man Records, the label founded by White in 2001.

In an interview with Radio 1's Zane Lowe, White said it "felt really good" to be launching a solo career.

Explaining how the album came about, the singer said: "A few months ago we had a [recording] session booked for one of the singles on Third Man.

"Someone didn't show up so I said, 'Well, I guess we'll do one of my songs that I've been writing.'

"And that kick-started the whole process of many, many songs I've been writing. It felt really good to do that, because I hadn't really done that by myself in a long time."

The album's lead single, Love Interruption, was posted online on Monday (30 January) and will be officially released on 7 February.

Jack White has scored a number of top 10 hits as a member of The White Stripes - including Seven Nation Army, Icky Thump and My Doorbell.

He also recorded the theme to the most recent James Bond film Quantum of Solace.

Another Way To Die, a duet with Alicia Keys, reached number nine in the UK singles chart in 2008.

Jack White's debut solo album Blunderbuss will be released 23 April.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/16809988

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New Order tour dates...

2012-01-31T13:36:00.002Z

Recently reformed (without original bassist Peter Hook) New Order have announced four UK tour dates. These will precede several festival fixtures in the band's forthcoming live calendar, which include Serbia's Exit and Spain's Benicassim.

Tour dates:

26 Apr: Manchester, Apollo
29 Apr: Birmingham, Ballroom
2 May: London, Academy Brixton
5 May: Glasgow, Academy

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LIBERTINES DOC DIRECTOR OFFERS EXTRAS VIA PLEDGE PARTNERSHIP...

2012-01-31T13:30:00.002Z

LIBERTINES DOC DIRECTOR OFFERS EXTRAS VIA PLEDGE PARTNERSHIP
The company behind new Libertines documentary 'There Are No Innocent Bystanders', Pulse Films, has teamed up with PledgeMusic to offer fans access to all sorts of extra material filmed by director Roger Sargent when he followed the band on their brief 2010 reunion, which climaxed with their sets at the Reading and Leeds festivals.

The film is due to be screened at various Academy venues around the UK in March before going on general release in April. Fans can pre-order the DVD version and other related content, including a live EP, artwork, and all sorts of extra stuff via the Pledge website, which is offering a number of different packages in different price ranges. The Pledge initiative has enabled Sargent to delve deeper into his footage and make lots of extra bits and pieces available to fans.

Says PledgeMusic MD Malcolm Dunbar: "The Libertines are a hugely important band and we are extremely pleased to be able to help them connect with their loyal and committed fanbase for this fantastic new project. The fact that we have already reached our original target in such a short space of time demonstrates the appetite out there for this new film and highlights the viability of getting fans involved at an early stage".

More at www.pledgemusic.com/artists/thelibertines

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

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THESE NEW PURITANS WRITING NEW LP...

2012-01-31T13:23:00.002Z

THESE NEW PURITANS WRITING NEW LP
Work has started on a sequel to These New Puritans' much-acclaimed second studio LP 'Hidden', the band have announced.

The new record will come out on London-based independent Infectious Music (Local Natives, Temper Trap) rather than via the band's former label Angular Records, a move that has seemingly involved a lot of tedious legal shenanigans.

A TNP tweet reads: "We are making a new album. We spent months with lawyers and are pleased to have moved to Infectious Music for its release".

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

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DEER TICK NEW ALBUM ‘DIVINE PROVIDENCE’ RELEASED APRIL 2nd 2012...

2012-01-31T11:41:00.003Z

DEER TICK NEW ALBUM ‘DIVINE PROVIDENCE’
RELEASED APRIL 2nd 2012
VIA LOOSE MUSIC
PLUS LONDON SHOW ON APRIL 4TH

“‘Main Street’, the first single from Deer Tick's new album, Divine Providence, finds the Rhode Island rockers hitting a comfortable sweet spot where the romantic rhythms of girl-group pop, the raspy punk of Nirvana and the rootsy, blue-collar poetry of Bruce Springsteen all blend together into something fresh and new.” –Rolling Stone
“This one is much closer to the reckless abandon of their live shows…it’s served with such a knowing grin that you can’t help but love it.” –Uncut

www.deertickmusic.com / loosemusic.com/deertick

John McCauley - guitar, vocals / Ian O'Neil - guitar, vocals / Chris Ryan - bass, vocals /
Rob Crowell - keys, saxophone, vocals / Dennis Ryan - drums, vocals

Deer Tick is proud to announce the UK release of their new album ‘Divine Providence’, available on April 2nd via Loose Music.

‘Divine Providence’ is the Rhode Island quintet's fourth album in just five years, and is the first release recorded in their home state. It's a follow-up to their fantastic ‘Black Dirt Sessions’, which New York magazine called "flat-out great," and inspired the Late Show with David Letterman to give the band its network television debut.

After years of critics mainly praising them for their "folk" and "country" sounds and not touching on their other musical styles, the band wanted to make a record that was true to their live set (which has gained some notoriety): raw, loud, heartfelt, and completely uninterested in whatever the hell the rest of the music industry is up to. The results are unlike anything you’ve heard on a Deer Tick album.

To produce this record, the band recruited the team of Adam Landry and Justin Collins, who produced McCauley's side-project Middle Brother's debut album. Distorted guitars aplenty, guitarist Ian O'Neil and drummer Dennis Ryan take lead vocal duties for the first time on record, you can practically smell the sweat and the beer! And even hear a guitar or two break somewhere in there! It's got a little Exile, it’s got a little In Utero, it’s got a little Nilsson Schmilsson, but it's 100% Deer-F**king-Tick in their purest, and most carefree form.

The songs are there. The delivery is in your face. There's no studio magic. There's no hiding the fact that Deer Tick is just five regular dudes. This record may rattle your thoughts and it may make you think differently about Deer Tick, but at least they didn't make the same album four times in a row, right?

The band will be embarking on a European Tour throughout March with a London date confirmed for The Garage on April 4th.

‘Main Street’ music video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNG6aK81ZAk

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Painter Faris McReynolds steps away from fine art successes to release album as Exdetectives...

2012-01-31T09:31:00.002Z

Painter Faris McReynolds steps away from fine art successes to release album as Exdetectives.

Taking cues from Blur, Ride, Elastica, “Take My Forever” pays tribute to the music of his youth.

“…a flight through the clouds. …listen to this album over and over again.” – The Aquarian

Unlike so many musicians that become painters, the Los Angeles-based artist Faris McReynolds found success as a fine artist first. Showing his work in galleries before he was even out of art school, McReynolds thought his career path was mapped out for him. He was wrong.

McReynolds, who also makes music as the minimalist avant-garde pop project One Finger Riot, takes a totally different songwriting approach as alter-ego Exdetectives on Take My Forever due February 14th from the Post Planetary record label.

"I’m paying tribute to the music of my youth,” McReynolds says about the record. “Britpop bands like Blur, Ride, and Elastica, first wave indie rock like Dinosaur, Jr. and also The Beatles which I didn’t hear until after I’d gone through punk. This music is about being straightforward and letting the songs do the work. It’s loose, casual and direct. Hopefully something I didn’t plan for comes out of that approach.”

Take My Forever’s first single “The Lawn” is a droning wash of guitars and live -- as in not programmed -- synthesizers. “I wanted it to be this mass of sound that stays in place all the way through the song. No dynamics, just this wide swirl of textures,” McReynolds says. “It’s got loud distorted guitars, yet it manages to come off as mellow. I’m proud of that because guitars can get old really fast.”

Created in a quick two-week fit of low-budget recording (vocals were tracked in a storage closet), McReynolds plays all of the instruments (save for the drums) on Take My Forever. It’s a radical approach to making a record that bears itself out all the way down to the title itself. As McReynolds states, “The title of the album says, ‘Here, you can fucking have it. Make of it what you will.”

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Danny DeVito plans West End debut...

2012-01-31T09:13:00.002Z

Danny DeVito is to make his West End debut alongside Richard Griffiths in a play about a pair of veteran comedians who reunite for one last performance.

The pair will star in Neil Simon's play The Sunshine Boys, which was first staged on Broadway in 1972.

It was made into a film starring Walter Matthau and George Burns three years later, earning an Oscar for Burns.

The play, directed by Thea Sharrock, will run at the Savoy Theatre in London from 27 April to 28 July.

DeVito emerged in the 1971 off Broadway stage version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest before appearing in the film of the same name in 1975.

He went on to star in TV sitcom Taxi and on the big screen in such films as Ruthless People, Batman Returns, Get Shorty and Twins.

He has also turned his hand to producing such films as Pulp Fiction and Erin Brockovich, as well as directing movies including The War of the Roses and Matilda.

Griffiths won Olivier and Tony awards for his role in Alan Bennett's play The History Boys and is also known for playing Vernon Dursley in the Harry Potter films.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16788675

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Only Fools and Horses gets US remake...

2012-01-31T09:09:00.002Z

Classic TV sitcom Only Fools and Horses is to be remade for a US audience.

The ABC network is to make a pilot US version of the British show, which starred David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst and ran from 1981 to 2003.

The script will be penned by Scrubs writers Steven Cragg and Brian Bradley.

ABC said it would follow the same formula of two brothers who "concoct outrageous, morally questionable get-rich-quick schemes in their quest to become millionaires".

If the pilot is picked up for a full series, it will be broadcast in the US later this year.

The original show came top of a poll to find the UK's greatest ever sitcom in 2004.

Its 1996 Christmas special was seen by more than 24 million people, making it one of the most-watched programmes in the history of British TV.

It also spawned two spin-offs - The Green Green Grass and Rock & Chips - before the show's writer and creator, John Sullivan, died last April aged 64.

Over the years, the programme has been sold and re-dubbed in dozens of countries.

There have also been international remakes, including Wat Schuift't? in The Netherlands and Brat Bratu in Slovenia, where Del Boy's three-wheel Reliant Robin car became a camper van.

UK sitcoms have a chequered history in the States.

One success story is the US version of Ricky Gervais' The Office, which has run for eight series, with Steve Carell and James Spader in the lead role.

But others, including American versions of Absolutely Fabulous, Fawlty Towers, Men Behaving Badly and Coupling, failed to take off.

Another UK comedy currently receiving a US makeover is political satire The Thick of It, which will be appearing as Veep on the HBO channel from April.

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Noel and Liam Gallagher nominated for NME music awards...

2012-01-31T09:04:00.002Z

Noel and Liam Gallagher are among the nominees for this year's NME Awards.

Noel is nominated for best solo artist and best album, but his brother Liam has fared less well. He's in the running for villain of the year.

He faces competition in the category from David Cameron, Nick Clegg, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber.

Liam's band Beady Eye, who formed after Oasis split in 2009, are also nominated for worst band at the ceremony, which takes place on 29 February.

One Direction, Muse and Coldplay are also shortlisted for the award.

Noel Gallagher has already been revealed as the winner of this year's Godlike Genius prize.

He is also nominated for hero of the year, alongside Noel Fielding, Alex Turner, Matt Bellamy and Dave Grohl.

'Very happy'

PJ Harvey's Let England Shake, which won the Mercury Music Prize last year, is nominated for best album.

It faces competition from The Horrors, The Vaccines and Arctic Monkeys - who have seven nominations in total.

The Sheffield band are also up for best album and best live band.

Drummer Matt Helders said it was "good to be recognised" at the event.

"We're up for all the big ones - we're very happy," he said. "We had a lot of fun making Suck It And See and it's great to be up for best live band."

The group are up against Bombay Bicycle Club, The Horrors, Kasabian and Muse for the best British band trophy.

Bombay Bicycle Club face Hurts, Lana Del Rey, Florence + The Machine and Arctic Monkeys for the best track honour.

Azealia Banks, who signed a major label record deal earlier this month, is nominated for dancefloor anthem for her single 212.

She faces competition from Katy B, Foster The People, Justice and Metronomy.

There are also categories for best TV show, best film and best festival - where Glastonbury takes on T In The Park, Reading and Leeds, V and Bestival.

Comedian Jack Whitehall will host this year's ceremony, which will feature live performances by The Vaccines and Kasabian.

The 2012 NME awards take place on 29 February at Brixton Academy.

Nominations for best solo artist:

Adele
Florence + The Machine
Frank Turner
Laura Marling
Miles Kane
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/16788316

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The Archers: 30/1/2012

2012-01-31T07:59:00.001Z

Synopsis:

Brian does a spot of networking and Joe launches a new enterprise.

Brian’s pleased with the promotional leaflet for the dairy, which will start to be mailed out today.

Mike and Jim are pleased with the turnout for the opening of the green burial ground, until Joe turns up with Bartleby, intending to give out leaflets for a ‘bespoke transportation service for a loved one’. Jim’s annoyed to learn that official gravedigger Eddie is also involved. Jim sends Joe home. Jennifer takes photos for the website. Brian chats to journalists from the Borchester Echo and Radio Borchester and is confident he’s got his side of things across.

Upstairs at The Bull afterwards, Mike tells Jim he’s unhappy with his record of hours worked at the orchard. Jim insists it’s the best he can do. Joe turns up and accepts a drink from Brian but states that he can’t be bought. Brian wouldn’t insult him – he’s sure Joe will make an informed decision about the dairy based on the evidence. Jim thought he made things clear to Joe earlier but Joe insists he said nothing about leafleting at The Bull.

It looks to Kenton as if the day’s been a roaring success. As one of the undertakers said to him, all that’s needed now is a body.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01b9hjl

Episode written by Joanna Toye

THE SMALL FACES: Deluxe Reissues...

2012-01-30T18:29:00.004Z

THE SMALL FACES
MAY 7th 2012 - UNIVERSAL TO RELEASE DELUXE EDITIONS OF THE GROUP’S FOUR CLASSIC ALBUMS FOR DECCA AND IMMEDIATE RELEASED BETWEEN 1966 AND 1968

On May 7th 2012, Universal Music Catalogue is set to release deluxe editions of the four albums released by The Small Faces during their short but highly creative and eventful lifetime between 1965 and 1969.

The albums in question: SMALL FACES, Decca, April 1966; FROM THE BEGINNING, Decca, June 1967; SMALL FACES, Immediate, June 1967 and OGDEN’S NUT GONE FLAKE, Immediate, June 1968 are each released as deluxe two-disc editions with the notable exception of OGDEN’S which has now been expanded to three discs.

All newly re-mastered, these definitive editions carry both the mono and stereo versions of the albums, plus related non-album singles and alternate versions many of which are previously unreleased or released for the first time on CD. In the case of OGDEN’s, there are separate discs for the mono and stereo formats and a third disc of previously unreleased material – early session versions, alternate USA mixes, instrumentals and the previously unreleased backing track “Kamikhazi”.

Complete with rare photos and memorabilia, each album package includes liner notes by Mark Paytress featuring entertaining and fascinating new interviews with the surviving members of the Small Faces, Ian McLagan and Kenney Jones.

It was Andrew Oldham who coined the phrase ‘there are but four Small Faces’, the group establishing its familiar line up of Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenny Jones and Ian McLagan in November 1965, once McLagan replaced Jimmy Winston behind the keyboards. McLagan joined within three months of the group’s debut single “Watcha Gonna Do About It” (reaching No. 14 in the charts in September 1965) adding the final ingredient to their distinctive sound.

Over the next two years The Small Faces achieved truly iconic status with a series of hits that included “Sha La La La Lee”, “All Or Nothing”, “My Mind’s Eye”, “Itchycoo Park” and “Lazy Sunday”, their celebrity heightened by their flamboyant appearance and bigger than life personalities, their sound shifting from explosive, spirited ‘mod’ anthems to memorable psychedelic pop culminating in the artistic triumph that was OGDEN’S NUT GONE FLAKE.

Never short on controversy, following a contractual dispute, The Small Faces left Decca for Andrew Oldham’s Immediate label around May 1966, hitting the charts for Oldham’s label straight away with “Here Comes The Nice”. Decca retaliated by releasing the first in a series of spoiler singles and the album FROM THE BEGINNING. It was a collection of outtakes, singles and works in progress which, despite its untidy origins, more than holds up today. Immediate responded by rush-releasing its own debut album by the group just two weeks later, confusingly titled SMALL FACES. In the battle of the LP charts, Immediate won out, reaching the No. 12 position to Decca’s No. 17.

The most celebrated Small Faces LP, OGDEN’S NUT GONE FLAKE was easily their most successful, enjoying a six-week run at the top of the UK charts during June and July 1968. Originally packaged in an elaborately designed round sleeve like a tobacco tin, it signaled the arrival of the Small Faces as a bona fide ‘album band’, a brilliant achievement just months ahead of the group’s acrimonious collapse within a year of its release.

The Small Faces have since taken their place alongside the likes The Who or the Kinks as one of the most fondly remembered, original and wonderful British groups of the 60s. Their best loved songs are still on rotation to this day, “Itchicoo Park” and “Lazy Sunday” both re-charting in the 70s while the individual reputations of both Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane have grown considerably since their untimely deaths. Kenney Jones and Ian McLagan have enjoyed success in their own right and, of course, with Ronnie Lane, were founder members of members of The Faces.

This series of reissues, the most complete editions to date of the Small Faces four classic albums, is a testimony to a truly original group whose influence is as great today as it was during its lifetime.

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Billy Connolly 'most influential comedian of all time'...

2012-01-30T15:11:00.002Z

Scottish funnyman Billy Connolly has been voted the UK's most influential stand-up comedian of all time.

The Glaswegian topped a poll of 2,000 people, commissioned by TV channel Dave for the Leicester Comedy Festival.

Second placed Morecambe and Wise were followed by Victoria Wood, Eddie Izzard and Ben Elton.

Stephen Merchant, Jack Dee, Miranda Hart, Jason Manford and Jo Brand were among 100 comics who compiled a shortlist, which the public voted on.

Peter Cook was placed sixth, followed by Les Dawson, Lenny Henry, Sean Lock and Rik Mayall in 10th place.

US star Robin Williams was named top international comedian.

Steve North, head of TV channel Dave, which commissioned the poll, said: "British stand-up is there with the best in the world.

"It is great to see trailblazing stand-ups such as Billy Connolly and Robin Williams get the respect they deserve.

"Both Connolly and Williams have consistently pushed the comedy envelope and whilst they may have over 40 years of experience between them, they are still the funniest men on the planet."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-16787617

CLARA SANABRAS: NEW WEBSITE + ALBUM LAUNCH...

2012-01-30T13:35:00.002Z

Smudged Productions Presents:
CLARA SANABRAS
NEW WEBSITE + ALBUM LAUNCH

February is full of fantastic feats. Clara's album "The Emblem" (released tomorrow) will have its London launch at THE FORGE, on Thursday 23rd of February. R2 Magazine calls it "vibrantly exotic world-folk.... richly diverse and accomplished... lively and spirited throughout". Book tickets early to avoid disappointment.

A brand-new website by the wonderful Alaric King, incorporates Clara's drawings and artwork and is full of the latest widgets and colourful curios. Have a browse, let us know what you think, forward it to your friends! Clara will appear on The Discovery Show at Boisdale is Canary Wharf on Feb 29th. The gig will broadcast a week later for JAZZ FM. For more dates and information please visit: www.clarasanabras.com

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BILLBOARD CELEBRATES SEYMOUR STEIN WITH NEW AWARD...

2012-01-30T13:24:00.004Z

This weekend, veteran record business exec, industry conference regular, and champion rock n roll storyteller Seymour Stein was presented the Billboard Icon Award, a new prize to recognise lifetime achievements in the music industry. That the Sire Records co-founder deserves the prize is sort of a given, surely, but if you need convincing Billboard has posted a review of his career and a video of top names bigging Stein up at this URL:

www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/seymour-stein-billboard-icon-2012-1005911152.story

Commenting on the award at the breakfast bash where it was presented, Billboard's Editorial Director Bill Werde noted the impact one of Sire's most famous signings, The Ramones, had on him personally when growing up. Said Werde: "The Ramones are really the band that changed my life. That was my gateway drug... That was the band that took me on my path and got me into cool music and got me into all these things. To some extent, you can blame Seymour for my being here at all. And Seymour, I personally thank you very much for that".

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

LORDS APPROVE FINAL AMENDMENTS TO LIVE MUSIC BILL...

2012-01-30T13:19:00.002Z

The House Of Lords gave speedy approval to the Live Music Bill on Friday, meaning the much previously reported legislation - which will remove much of the bureaucracy inflicted on the promoters of small music events by the 2003 Licensing Act - should now be law by March, with the Queen due to apply her rubber stamp sometime next month.

Although a private members' bill, introduced twice by Liberal Lord Tim Clement Jones, the legislation - being approved by both the Coalition government and its original opponents, the Local Government Association, in its final form - was able to get through both the Lords and the Commons in the short time dedicated to non-government initiated proposals. Having passed the Commons the Friday before last, the Lords just needed to approve some final amendments last week.

Commenting on the impact his bill should now have by simplifying the process for staging small-scale gigs, Clement-Jones told reporters: "This is a modest Bill but one which I believe will have a major impact on the performance and enjoyment of live music, the livelihood especially of young musicians and the viability of our pubs and clubs'.

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

The Help triumphs at SAG film awards...

2012-01-30T13:11:00.002Z

Civil rights drama The Help has won three prizes at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) awards, including best cast and best actress for Viola Davis.

Another of the film's stars, Octavia Spencer, was named best supporting actress.

"Dream big and dream fierce," Davis told the audience at Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium on Sunday.

Silent movie The Artist, tipped for Oscar glory, could only manage one win, a best actor prize for Jean Dujardin.

The SAG awards are seen as a key indicator of which films and stars may come out on top at the Oscars.

Actors make up the biggest voting group in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which picks the Oscar recipients.

Veteran Christopher Plummer was named best supporting actor for his portrayal of an elderly man who comes out to his family in Beginnners.

Like the Golden Globes, the SAG awards also honour television work.

Paul Giamatti was named best actor in a TV film or mini-series for his role in Too Big to Fail, a drama about the 2008 financial meltdown.

Kate Winslet was named best actress for playing the title role in Mildred Pierce, having won the same award at the Golden Globes earlier this month.

The cast of Martin Scorsese's Boardwalk Empire picked up the TV drama ensemble prize, while its star Steve Buscemi was named best male actor in a drama series.

Jessica Lange was named best actress in a drama series for her role in American Horror Story.

Alec Baldwin won best actor in a comedy series for 30 Rock, while Betty White picked up the best comedy actress prize for Hot in Cleveland.

"I think they made a terrible mistake," White joked, adding that the prize belonged to all four female leads in the series.

Modern Family won the comedy ensemble prize, while the best stunt award went to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.

The ceremony also saw Dick Van Dyke present a lifetime achievement award to Mary Tyler Moore, best known for her self-titled sitcom in the 1970s.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16785536

Original Happy Mondays line-up to re-form for tour...

2012-01-30T08:54:00.003Z

The Happy Mondays will re-form for a month-long tour in May, singer Rowetta Satchell has confirmed.

Rowetta, also an X Factor finalist, told BBC Radio Manchester the group had been in talks for a long time, but made the final decision to reform last week.

Although the Manchester band have reformed previously, this will be the first time the original line-up has played together since 1992.

"We want to put on a really good show," Rowetta told Darryl Morris.

All seven of the original line-up met last week to "see if they could sit in a room together", Rowetta said, referring to the band's acrimonous past.

She said the drive to bring the original members back together had come from lead singer Shaun Ryder and his manager.

"We decided it would only be special and work if it was the total, original line-up," she said.

"We're all really excited. They are my family, these boys; I've really missed them... and I'm sure they've missed each other."

Seminal

The band, who were at the forefront of the Madchester scene, formed in 1980, with Ryder as their frontman.

The original band also included Ryder's brother Paul, guitarist Mark Day, Paul Davis and drummer Gary Whelan. They were joined by Mark "Bez" Berry and Rowetta.

Discovered by music impresario Tony Wilson, they went on to release the albums Squirrel And G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out), Bummed, and Pills 'N' Thrills And Bellyaches, before disbanding after 1992's Yes Please!.

They reformed twice, most notably in 1999, but split again in 2001, with Paul Ryder vowing never to perform with his brother again.

A further incarnation of the band followed in 2004, with only Shaun Ryder, Bez and Whelan from the original line-up.

Rowetta said the band would be rehearsing throughout April, but denied there were currently any plans for them to support the reunited Stone Roses at Heaton Park.

"It's up to the Roses. As long as we've not killed each other by then, we'd be up for it."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16781683

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The Archers: 29/1/2012

2012-01-30T07:21:00.000Z

Synopsis:

Neil acquires an unlikely assistant and Jennifer tries to build bridges.

Pat thanks Susan for coming into work on a Sunday. Susan’s happy to help. Pat’s been too busy to prepare lunch and Tony feels that he’s the only person running the farm. Pat reminds him that the launch, and all the work that Tom is doing, is for the good of the farm. Tony thinks it’s all too much.

Jennifer wishes Brian and Adam could sort things out. She defends Adam’s comments on the mega dairy to the reporter but Brian’s not having any of it, despite Debbie feeling sorry for Adam. Jennifer wants Brian to come to the Ambridge Organics launch but he won’t go.

However, Brian is keen to attend the open event at the green burial ground. Jennifer warns him not to hijack the event. Brian insists he’s just going to be networking. After all, they gave the land to put something back into the community.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01b8zw1

Episode written by Joanna Toye

Review: Highway Ghosts

2012-01-29T10:16:00.002Z

Highway Ghosts - Beyond All Help (Independent)
Highway Ghosts are an Americana outfit from Boston, comprising of David DeLuca (guitar and vocals), Dennis Barry (bass and vocals), Dan Cody (guitar and vocals) and Matt Slowick (drums and vocals). That’s a lot of vocalists in one band, but it’s something they constantly use to their advantage, through rich harmonies and alternating leads.

Contemporary Americana reflects the music business as a whole. It’s constantly evolving and appears almost unlimited in its scope, from Bonnie Prince Billy and Josh T. Pearson, right through to Taylor Swift, it’s a broad church and Highway Ghosts have set up in the nave. They take the classic sound of ‘70s country rock – Poco, Eagles, etc. – strip back the excess and inject plenty of urgency. Take “Please Don't Run Away”, lyrically it could pass for a new wave classic, but the banjo and mandolin tell a completely different story. It’s probably my favourite track here, but it’s got an awful lot of competition. “Alone” might be a song to cry into a beer to, but maudlin it’s not. It’s all gone wrong on “Laurie” but a sublime Hammond organ goes some way to making it better, and “And She Goes” is a Tom Petty-esque rocker with a catchy-as-hell chorus and the finest quality “whoah whoah” backing vocals – you will join in.
http://www.highwayghosts.com/
Rob F.

Download the album free from here: http://highwayghosts.bandcamp.com/

Desert Island Discs celebrates 70 years...

2012-01-29T08:34:00.002Z

Desert Island Discs is celebrating its 70th anniversary with 44 different versions of the radio programme across the BBC's entire UK network.

Sir David Attenborough appears on BBC Radio 4's version for a fourth time - a record he shares with Arthur Askey.

The special editions will feature the public's favourite tunes and memories.

Over the 70 years the great and the good have imagined life on a secluded island; Beethoven's Ninth Symphony has been the most popular musical choice.

Je Ne Regrette Rien by Edith Piaf has been the most frequently chosen non-classical tune which guests said they would have on the island with them.

'Constantly surprised'

Amongst the 2,881 luxuries chosen to be taken on the island are 183 pianos, five trombones, the Albert Memorial and a cheeseburger machine.

At midday on Sunday all 40 local radio stations and Radio Scotland, Radio nan Gaidheal, Radio Wales, Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle will simultaneously broadcast their own Your Desert Island Discs featuring listeners' stories.

They will include Chris Seery, who first heard Alive by Pearl Jam when he worked in the US and played it while training for the New York Marathon.

The song has since taken on a whole new meaning for the married father-of-two from the Suffolk countryside.

In 2010 he was diagnosed with a rare form of bowel cancer and despite operations, many cycles of chemotherapy and an initially positive outlook for recovery he is terminally ill at 46.

"This time the words have great meaning as I am determined to do everything to beat the odds and stay alive for the sake of my boys and the joy of being alive," he said.

First broadcast on 29 January 1942, the programme was conceived and presented by playwright and novelist Roy Plomley, who each week asked a guest to choose eight songs, a book and luxury item for their imaginary stay on the island.

The "castaways" are then invited to discuss their lives and reasons for their choices.

Kirsty Young, who has been presenting the programme since 2006, told the Radio Times she has "probably the best job in the world" and would like to be doing it "until I'm 85".

She said of her castaways: "Although the premise is phoney - sitting in a studio talking to each other - I don't think I'm deluding myself when I say you can establish connections.

"I'm constantly surprised, and delighted, by their frankness and honesty."

Four presenters, 70 years

Roy Plomley (1942-1986)
Michael Parkinson (1986-88)
Sue Lawley (1988-2006)
Kirsty Young (2006-present)

Kirsty Young's 70th anniversary edition of Desert Island Discs with Sir David Attenborough is at 1115 GMT on BBC Radio 4 (FM only).

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16778273

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GLASVEGAS Dates...

2012-01-29T08:11:00.002Z

Scottish rockers Glasvegas have announced several UK tour dates, each of which will find the band previewing material from the in-progress successor to their second studio album, 'EUPHORIC /// HEARTBREAK \\\'.

Though they remain unsigned, Glasvegas have denied any plans to split after being dropped from Sony/Columbia last year.

Guitarist Rab Allen of the band has published this Facebook note to accompany the tour announcement: "These are just wee shows to try out some of the new material we've been doing along with the older stuff. Hope you can make it down. I think they will be special little gigs. Hopefully more gigs in more cities not long after if all goes well".

Live dates as follows:

3 Apr: London, Garage
4 Apr: Liverpool, Academy 2
5 Apr: Glasgow, Classic Grand

http://www.glasvegas.net/splash

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NEDRY new album 12 March 2012...

2012-01-28T15:42:00.002Z

NEDRY release new album 'In A Dim Light'
- out 12 March 2012 on Monotreme

www.nedrymakesmusic.com

“When a band is as good, as versatile and as daring as Nedry, you hope the wider world will stand up and take notice.”
Huw Stephens, BBC Radio1

On 12 March 2012 Nedry, whose distillation of advanced rhythmic structures, low frequencies and raw human tones stand uniquely at a fascinating sonic crux of leftfield, club and indie juncture, are to release their new album, In A Dim Light' on Monotreme Records.

BIOGRAPHY
Nedry are a trio by way of London, Osaka and Bristol whose distillation of advanced rhythmic structures, low frequencies and raw human tones stand uniquely at a fascinating sonic crux of leftfield, club and indie juncture.

Drawing on the gothic undertones of David Lynch – and at points, absorbing T.S. Elliot’s ‘Four Quartets’, vocalist Ayu Okakita revels in ruminations urging acceptance of the shadows; to permit the darkness to settle around her.

British bass music clings to few modern regulations. As grey areas become inviting, zones of conflict are transformed into fertile new ground. Nedry are dictating a path that recognizes no genre, no structures, no rules. Ripping progressive dance culture out of the bedroom producers’ smoke stained confines and planting it resolutely on the live stage, Matt and Chris utilize MPC, laptops, guitars and synths to create a deep, thoughtful musical space.

Nedry are dissolving the distance between this cutting edge and hungry audience. Splicing a band aesthetic with the ‘heads down and thumbs up’ bass craft of the UK, they gift the faceless revolution of dark music an inviting visage within which we can all dwell.

As comfortable on the dancefloor of London clubs like The Boiler Room or FWD>> nights as they are onstage at The Great Escape or Barcelona’s Sonar electronic showcase – Nedry are the hypnotic, tender and evolving exponent of the delightful mutation that we face each day in Britain’s refreshingly wobbly musical culture.

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Review: Mitch Siegal

2012-01-28T15:24:00.002Z

Mitch Siegal - Save The World (Independent)
Mitch Siegal is a Chiropractor from Florida who treats patients with spine and neck problems. In his spare time he raises money and writes music for the Songs of Love Foundation in New York, an organization that creates personalized songs for sick children all over the USA. Which neatly brings us to Mitch Siegal’s other career, the one that probably doesn’t pay the mortgage or feed the family, but is clearly close to his heart.

“Save The World” is his second album of original songs. Whether his albums are a natural progression of his charity work, or his prime musical focus, I’ve no idea, and in many ways it matters not a jot. Siegal is a regular performer in his home state and I’m sure he’ll be selling the majority of his CDs to audience members, though his sound and style is universal. His songs feel heartfelt and honest, and he repeatedly hits his targets, whether he’s writing about natural (in)justice, love and loss, or more abstract topics. There’s a sunshine lilt to much of the material, which is no surprise considering his location, and the best tracks on “Save The World”, the Coldplay-esque “Till Now”, the vibrant “Rose Marie” and the new-wave flecked “I'll Never Learn” all readily transcend the local singer-songwriter tag.
http://mitchsiegal.com/
Rob F.

Review: Deep Roots Of The Ramones

2012-01-28T12:46:00.003Z

Various Artists – Deep Roots Of The Ramones (Sireena Records)
If you’re credited with inventing a genre, as The Ramones often are, it must surely be a worthwhile enterprise trawling record catalogues to pin down the tunes that inspired their music. Sounds like a lot of fun, too. Of course, The Ramones didn’t invent punk rock, as any ‘60s garage dweller, or Detroit musicologist will testify, but that’s no reason to overlook their huge contribution to three-chord nihilism, leather jackets and ripped jeans.

This feisty compilation from the German Sireena label paints a picture that’s by no means complete, but still sounds extremely impressive. All the usual suspects are present and correct: Iggy and the Stooges (“I Got A Right”), MC5 (“Looking At You”) and the New York Dolls (the always good to hear “Personality Crisis”), but interestingly it’s the early stuff that really works, tracks by Link Wray, Carl Perkins and Gene Vincent seem to epitomize the basics of punk rock that The Ramones effortlessly tapped into. Add some fine contributions from The Troggs, Flamin’ Groovies and Jack Scott, and the result is a compilation that’s going to live in your CD player for some time. Go on, crank it up and spoil the neighbours.
http://www.sireena.de/
Rob F.

Classic Reviews from the Leicester Bangs Print Archive...

2012-01-28T12:39:00.003Z

2 Foot Flame – Ultra Drowning (Matador)
Ultra Drowning are not for the faint of heart as guitars and keyboards overload in a cacophony of sound reminiscent of a harshly ambient Sonic Youth strung out on Draino, or a less structured Diamanda Galas dragged up on Grace, Janis and Patti.

For all the madness, layered noise and general weirdness, there are real songs scattered around, telling stories of disappointment and suffering which make 2 Foot Flame a challenging but always worthwhile experience. New sonic blues for an apathetic generation, then? Quite possibly.

If alternative music has joined the mainstream then 2 Foot flame are about a hundred yards from the bank, whirling ‘round pretending to be aeroplanes, but with no discernable intention of getting even a little wet.
LB (1997)

Run On – No Way (Matador)
New York’s Run On are poppy noiseniks on a mission. With their second album “No Way”, they mix melody and drones in equal measure to produce a record that has some interesting tracks but is never completely satisfying.

New member Katie Gentile adds a new dimension to the band after the departure of David Newgarden, especially on the violin led “Anything You Say”, which might be the album’s high water mark. Other songs to look out for are the trance-like “Dance Away”, the Nick Drake cover “Road” and the impressive six-minute “Sinnerman”, which almost brings the proceedings to a close.

Not a bad record by any means, just slightly disappointing.
LB (1997)

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Crazy Arm - March 2012 mini tour‏...

2012-01-28T12:26:00.002Z

CRAZY ARM
MARCH MINI-TOUR 2012

Devonian roots-punk ensemble, Crazy Arm, embark on a short UK stint ‘The Leap Of Faith tour’ in March alongside good friends, Apologies I Have None and Great Cynics. They also hook up with Indiana US country singer, Austin Lucas, for a couple of shows, with Crazy Arm appearing as Austin's backing band on a number of songs.

The band’s second album, 'Union City Breath', was released in October last year. Much like its predecessor, 'Born To Ruin', it has been very well received nationwide and throughout mainland Europe by fans and critics alike. Produced and engineered by Peter Miles (The King Blues, The Computers, Sonic Boom Six), the album is a triumph of punk rock energy, alt. country vitality and rabble-rousing honesty.

Not easy to categorise, and all the better for it, Crazy Arm's sound is an accumulation of decades of influence and inspiration: rooted in hardcore/punk, ‘60s protest folk/country and Springsteen-esque classic rock’n’roll. They combine this with a grass-roots political overview that embraces anti-war, anti-fascist and pro-community activism.

FEBRUARY 2012
29th – White Rabbit, Plymouth (with Austin Lucas + Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)

MARCH 2012
1st – Croft, Bristol (with Austin Lucas + Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)
2nd – The Hydrant, Brighton (with Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)
3rd – Firebug, Leicester (with Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)
4th – Fighting Cocks, Kingston (with Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)
5th – Norwich (with Apologies I Have None + Great Cynics)

Reviews for 'Union City Breath':
'Blisters with energy' – KKKK Kerrang!
'You need Crazy Arm' – 5/5 Big Cheese
'A triumph from start to finish' – 9/10 Punktastic
'Delivered with a fired-up passion' – Rock Sound
'Never faltering from the pinnacle it attains from the off' – Punk News
'A patchwork blanket of musical bliss' – Room Thirteen
'This is the band to watch at the moment' – Rhythm Circus
'Supremely confident' – Sputnik Music
'Album of choice to represent Britain on the punk scene' – Alter The Press

http://www.facebook.com/thecrazyarm

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Review: Rebecca Pronsky

2012-01-28T11:51:00.002Z

Rebecca Pronsky – Viewfinder (Nine Mile Records)
It helps to gain that lonesome, winsome and downright handsome voice if the context for recording fits snug. Rebecca Pronsky hightailed from her Brooklyn home to the wilds of woodland Maine to create this atmospheric and haunting collection. Rebecca’s superb jazz–trained voice combines eloquently with the country twang and sweeping landscapes of songs, which, in their detail of relationships and breakdown, of anger, regret and love, call to mind Carolyn Mark and Neko Case.

‘Give Up too Easily’ has a ‘60s bounce and sway, with Rich Bennet’s Smiths-style guitar licks. Beautiful. And ‘Aberdeen’ had me pondering an imminent trip to the North of Scotland… or Washington State, just to pay homage to the song. Rebecca Pronsky tours extensively, and has just wowed audiences on her UK shows. Can I ask that she make it back to the UK soon, please...
www.rebeccapronsky.com
Carl J.

Review: Miles Nielsen

2012-01-28T11:26:00.004Z

Miles Nielsen - Presents The Rusted Hearts (Rotown Records)
The idea on this sophomore album is that Miles Nielsen lets you get to know his five-piece band. That’s no bad thing, but despite his intention, Nielsen still takes centre stage on almost every track. There’s a tendency amongst some contemporary singer-songwriters to go one of two ways; it seems they either want to shout at you, or whine away for three minutes at a time. The title track falls into the latter category, and "The Grain" doesn't help me make up my mind. It’s an uptempo, spikier number, with big backing and boisterous chorus. Quite fine stuff in its own way, actually, but it does have just a little too much going on.

We get back to the basics on "Dear Kentucky (You're Killing Me)", and it is more obvious that, despite the brevity of this song, we have something real and true here, simple but meaningful lyrics, with a gentle caress of heartfelt love/hate for the bluegrass state. Another two nuggets in the mix are "Cold War", which is followed by "Overrated". Both are quality songs and wouldn’t have sounded out of place on a Willie Nile record. The band doesn’t appear to put a note wrong, either. It could still go either way, but add the smart-sounding "Sirens" to the list of good things happening here, and I’m happy to wish them only the best.
http://milesnielsen.com/
Kev A.

Review: Buildings

2012-01-28T10:00:00.002Z

Buildings - Melt Cry Sleep (Double+Good Records)
‘Melt Cry Sleep’ indeed. I know a noise when I hear it, and this is a noise. But here’s a pertinent question – do I know a good musical noise from a bad musical noise? As ever, it all comes down to personal preferences and for me this is musical noise that I can like and appreciate – but you’ve got to give it a chance. I did the same with Barkmarket years ago, and Aminiature, and never regretted it. I don't regret listening to this, either, but you might, as I did, need to pick your time and place.

Buildings make aggressive music, hardcore to the hub, but with a flowing motion that provides a superlative drive, propelling the sound of music forward, on every track. Of course, we’re not talking about Julie Andrews here, and this is as far from the ‘Sound Of Music’ as an investment banker is from philanthropy. Their song titles, from "Born On A Bomb" to "I Don't Love My Dog Anymore" spell it out for you. It’s a coruscating noise that Buildings make, and it hurls around the brain until you’re ready to digest, or perhaps, reject, it. Sure, there’s always an element of near thrash, but it all adds up to a truly invigorating experience. Just pick the moment when you feel the need to be engulfed in sound. You might emerge with a pink tinge, but you’ll come to no serious harm.
http://doubleplusgoodrecords.com/
Kev A.

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Review: Dan Mangan

2012-01-28T09:51:00.002Z

Dan Mangan - Oh Fortune (City Slang)
Here's a guy who knows exactly what he’s doing. He's managed to get his head above the parapet and he’s primed for launch. The big time beckons, and hopefully whatever success is attained, it’s done so with his artistic integrity intact. 2010's 'Nice Nice Very Nice' was exactly that, and was a rallying cry to get him noticed - a flag waver, if ever I heard one - but as good as 'Nice Nice...’ was, this is a huge leap forward. He’s ready to rouse the rabble, or those of us who‘ll listen to his musical call to arms and pass on the word. We’ll tell our friends about the sheer exuberance of being in on something that’s just about to break (we think... we hope...).

The arrangements on all eleven tracks have that certain extra something, whether its orchestration or individual sounds (the clang at the start of "Daffodil", and the accompanying drones are just wonderful). However, it’s the voice that brings such quality to the songs, demonstrating melancholy, euphoria, reflection, heartache, and an honest desire to deliver his songs without the falsity of excessive showmanship. They appear to mean so much to him. That’s what his voice tells us. This is heart and soul, no less. Indeed, if this doesn’t put him in the spotlight, for better or worse, I don't know what will. All hail Dan Mangan!
http://www.cityslang.com/
Kev A.

Review: Marconi Union (x2)

2012-01-28T09:04:00.003Z

Marconi Union – Under Wires and Searchlights / Distance (Just Music)
2012 sees Marconi Union’s 2003 debut “Under Wires and Searchlights” mastered for the first time, and a re-mastering of their critically acclaimed 2005 follow up, “Distance”.

The once duo (of Richard Talbot and Jamie Crossley), now trio (add Duncan Meadows) have over the years submersed themselves in the worlds of music, art installation, theatre, film and TV commercials with their hybridisation of dub, jazz, ambience and electronica. “Under Wires and Searchlights” blends radio controlled elegance, stark and melancholic moods, cinematic jazz and subtle trip-hop, and is equal parts Angelo Badalamenti, Barry Adamson and Massive Attack.

“Distance” (cited by The Sunday Times to be “one of the most successful ambient albums of recent years”) has an overtly optimistic aura to it, which is more emotional and cohesive in direction where occasional mildly claustrophobic tones are outweighed by the immensely cathartic. Subsequent Marconi Union releases have received a wealth of mainstream media compliments and a new album is planned for later this year.
www.marconiunion.com
www.justmusic.co.uk
Willsk

Review: Azusa Plane

2012-01-28T08:57:00.002Z

Azusa Plane – Where the Sands Turn To Gold (Rocket Girl)
“Where the Sands Turn To Gold” is a retrospective two CD and DVD package complied in memory of Jason DiEmilio (aka Azusa Plane). DiEmilio suffered from chronic Tinnitus and Hyperacusis; aural conditions brought about by extreme sound exposure. He committed suicide aged 36 in 2006. Whilst DiEmilio’s music is obviously quite personal and insular, there are experimental rites of passage and homage to be paid. Influences are drawn upon, such as Spacemen 3, Velvet Underground, The Smiths and Belle and Sebastian, and Lou Reed’s “Metal Machine Music”

CD1 comprises extended atonal and drone exercises and slabs of solid distortion and controlled feedback, interlaced with the temperate “Live At Leeds” which proves a refreshing wash and “Every Wave Has Its Own Integrity” has an almost Jan Hammer-esque ambience to it. Apart from the occasional forays into noise, CD2 is a more accessible affair and sonically less abrasive. A place in which the haunted tones of “A Magnetic Breakthrough” and “Ode To the Mountain Goats” can hang upon swirling repetitions and the playful blips of “The Last of The Famous Electronic Playboys” can nestle inside their effervescing dust.

Azusa Plane was a prolific musician and the DVD features a further thirty-minute live set and 65 MP3s which include rare tracks, an interview with Jason and unreleased live and studio recordings. The expansive booklet contains essays, thoughts, reflections and memories of DiEmilio's life and musical output. Azusa Plane RIP.
www.rocketgirl.co.uk
www.myspace.com/azusaplane
Willsk

Review: Lil Daggers

2012-01-28T08:38:00.003Z

Lil Daggers - S/T (Song, By Toad Records)
Welcome to the new indie kids on the block, and they’re from Miami. In the past I’ve welcomed The Postmarks, and, er, Lansing-Dreiden anyone? If we stretch the list and add solo artists, there’s Chan Marshall (Cat Power to you and me); and that's about it. So, what do Lil Daggers bring to the table then?

Well, for one thing, they build their sound in a most powerful way, so by the time you’re approaching the end of a track like "Past Due" or "Slave Exchange", you’re well into what they are trying to do, which appears to be to give everyone a good time. Subtler tracks such as "Pignose" and "Give Me A Pill" don't have the same edgy feel to them and are a little more organized perhaps, and pay their dues to old school garage rock, with a smattering of R&B and a healthy dose of psyche-rock thrown in.

The fact it took me half of the album to realize that the drawl of the lead singer was a chap (well, hello to you, Johnny Saraiva) didn’t in any way diminish what I’d already heard. I filed it away and decided that the charm of the music was responsible for my mistake, and just continued to enjoy the (quiet) mayhem that Lil Daggers produce - or perhaps it was because earlier I’d been playing the marvelous Warpaint, and this isn’t a million miles from their style. There is also a grand finale; out on its own is "Pair Of Lives", which quietly, and smoothly, and ever so beautifully, puts the album to bed.

Lil Daggers, they know their past, and it looks like they’ll be contributing to the future, and not just in Miami, either. This is a great starter album to what should be a long career for them, in the studio, in the arena, and in your life.
http://songbytoadrecords.com/
Kev A.

The Archers: 27/1/2012

2012-01-28T07:34:00.002Z

Synopsis:

Adam tries to set the record straight, and Joe offers his help.

Joe wants to plant Borsetshire Beauty saplings but Jim’s been researching local single variety ciders and reckons there are different apples they could use in the orchard. Joe’s happy to try out the different ciders. He’s also happy to sort out Jim’s records of the hours people have put in. Jim thinks it’s an impossible task but Joe insists he can manage. Jim doesn’t think it’s right to involve Joe but admits he needs help from someone impartial.

Adam doesn’t see how he and Brian can continue to work together. Jennifer understands Adam didn’t mean things to go this far and agrees with Ian that Debbie might be able to see a way through.

Debbie’s really annoyed that Adam spoke to the Echo, but he protests that he thought they would explain it wasn’t a family feud. Eventually Debbie sees that Adam’s in an impossible position. She still thinks he was an idiot and is angry on the business side of things but he’s her brother. They’ve been through worse, and she expects they’ll survive. This means so much to Adam. He thought it had soured everything between them, like it has with him and Brian. He doesn’t think Brian will ever forgive him.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01b1nkt

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Southern Records news...

2012-01-27T16:46:00.001Z

Southern Records are preparing for a busy year ahead and have been dropping hints of things to come.
Check out their most recent update below...

LATITUDES
The year is kicking off with a bang with the new Latitudes vinyl packaging which Southern are debuting with the Sylvester Anfang II release next month. "We have felt for some time that we needed to up our game on the vinyl side with Latitudes, and we spent a lot of time with the paper, glue and scissors (old school!) until we came up with something special." - Allison, Southern Records
There are sessions on the way from The Entrance Band, Wino & Conny Ochs, Bardo Pond, Grumblin’ Fur, and Haxan Cloak.

CRASSICAL
Also continuing is the Crassical reissue series, which has been a phenomenal success thus far. The final album, Ten Notes For A Summer’s Day, is coming soon and there are two more pieces to the Crassical puzzle: a new edition of the book Love Songs (previously published by Pomona) which is a collection of all of Crass’ lyrics. And the “singles collection” Best Before is still in production. Penny Rimbaud is expanding this release as well, and the packaging will be a departure from the rest of the Crassical collection. Best Before and Love Songs may sneak into the schedule before the summer, but more likely we won’t see them until Autumn.

EXITSTENCILISMS
Southern are finally launching Exitstencilsms, the audio arm of Exitstencil Press, which is a publisher (mainly of books) founded by Penny Rimbaud and Gee Vaucher way back before Crass. Exitstencil continues publishing radical works to this day, and now Exitstencilisms becomes the audio arm with a new edition of Acts Of Love by Penny Rimbaud. Acts Of Love is a collection of 50 poems which he wrote during the late 60s and 70s, which are illustrated by Gee Vaucher. Towards the end of Crass’ seven years together, Rimbaud went into the studio and created an audio version of the book with Crass vocalist Eve Libertine. The result was briefly released on vinyl by the Crass label, but has been out of print for eons. Exitstencilisms are now issuing the work as it was originally conceived - as a book, with a remaster of the audio accompanying it on CD. Further releases from Exitstencilisms will include the Exit performances from the ICES 72 festival (big feature in the current issue of The Wire), and small-run handmade CD works by Penny Rimbaud, Eve Libertine, and others.

There will be much more news... including

Three new bands Southern have signed!
A new label they are launching!
Stacks of awesome reissues!
More books!
Stay tuned for further details on all of the above soon.

http://www.southern.com/

Composer Clare Fischer dies at 83...

2012-01-27T16:12:00.002Z

US jazz composer, arranger and pianist Clare Fischer has died, aged 83.

The Grammy winner had been on life support earlier this month after suffering a cardiac arrest following minor surgery.

Fischer received his 11th Grammy nomination at this year's awards, for best instrumental arrangement for his track In the Beginning.

Starting out in jazz, he went on to create arrangements for pop stars including Prince and Michael Jackson.

Born on 22 October 1928 in Durand, Michigan, Fischer worked with jazz legends such as Donald Byrd and Dizzy Gillespie.

In 1975 he found a new direction in Latin-American music and started his own group, Salsa Picante.

The group's record 2+2 won Fischer his first Grammy in 1981, and again in 1986 for Free Fall.

He also took on orchestral arrangements for the Chaka Khan-led group Rufus, as his nephew was the drummer.

"Apparently the arrangements I made for their early records were appreciated, for in the following years I was hired almost exclusively by black artists," he told Artist Interviews.

Once he was established as an arranger in the R&B field, Fischer became the "go-to-guy" for arranging pop albums and was hired by artists including Paul McCartney, Celine Dion and Robert Palmer.

A multi-instrumentalist, Fischer also received an honorary doctorate from Michigan State University in 1999 for his outstanding contributions to the field of jazz.

He recorded more than 45 albums and has arranged, composed or played on more than 100 other artists' records.

He is survived by his wife Donna, and children Brent, Lee and Tahlia.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16756139

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Kate Winslet to receive honorary Cesar award...

2012-01-27T16:01:00.002Z

Kate Winslet is to receive an honorary Cesar award at France's equivalent of the Oscars next month, it has been announced.

Roman Polanski, who directed the 36-year-old in recent release Carnage, will present her with the prize.

French drama Poliss, written, directed by and starring Maiwenn lead the shortlist with 13 nods, including best film and director.

The Minister picked up 11 nods and silent film The Artist was up for 10.

The French silent film, which is one of the leading contenders at this year's Academy Awards, was re-released in France on Wednesday.

"Don't forget that the Cesar awards were created in homage to the Oscars," French Film Academy president Alain Terzian told The Hollywood Reporter.

He added that the Cesars symbolically take place in the same weekend as the Oscars.

"It's an homage I want to permanently pay," said Mr Terzian.

He said they are expecting The Artist stars Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, both up for Cesar acting prizes, to attend the French ceremony, before flying to the US for the Oscars.

The Artist and Poliss will compete alongside The Minister, Declaration of War, Le Havre and Untouchable in the best film category.

Poliss, about a police child protection unit, was presented with the jury prize at last May's Cannes Film Festival.

British film The King's Speech received a nomination in the best foreign film category, and was joined by Black Swan, Drive, The Kid With The Bike, Melancholia and Iranian Oscar hopeful A Separation.

French actor-director Guillaume Canet will preside over the annual awards in Paris on 24 February.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16759408

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Spotify boycotts 'alienate fans'...

2012-01-27T15:58:00.002Z

Singers and bands who withhold their albums from music streaming services, such as Spotify, are in danger of alienating their fans, an executive from record label Universal has said.

Acts including Adele and Coldplay kept their latest albums off Spotify, which is seen by some as damaging sales.

But Francis Keeling, vice president of digital at Universal Music, said such acts risk "alienating their fanbases".

Universal is the world's most successful record label.

Adele's track Rolling In The Deep was the most-played single of 2011 on Spotify UK, but the star has withheld the complete album, 21 - released by the XL label - from the service.

Coldplay's manager Dave Holmes recently told Bloomberg Businessweek that the band's Mylo Xyloto, released on EMI, would be on Spotify eventually.

But he said: "I am very concerned. Spotify competes with download stores."

The Black Keys and Tom Waits are among the other high-profile acts who have kept their latest releases off streaming services.

Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach told Billboard magazine that the royalties from streaming services were "so minuscule it's laughable".

"It's a cool thing to have if you're in a new band and you want to be heard," he said. "But if you are a bigger band that's already known and you rely on record sales for a living, then it's really no place to be."

Universal has said its research proved that Spotify did not cannibalise sales, and Mr Keeling said the label negotiated with artists on a case-by-case basis.

"Over time, we're trying to convince our artists that streaming services are the right thing to do and these services should be supported," he said, according to PaidContent.

Mr Keeling was speaking at the label's Investors' Open Day in London, where Spotify announced that it now had three million paying subscribers, with approximately 12 million more using its free service.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16755449

John Hurt to receive lifetime Bafta prize...

2012-01-27T15:45:00.003Z

Veteran actor John Hurt will receive the outstanding contribution to cinema award at the Bafta's next month, it has been announced.

"I know that film means a great deal to me but I had no idea that I meant so much to film," the 72-year-old said.

Bafta chairman Tim Corrie said the actor has an "extraordinary screen presence" and brings "utter conviction to every role he undertakes".

His film credits include The Elephant Man and Nineteen Eighty-Four.

In 1976 he was presented with his first Bafta award for his role as Quentin Crisp in the TV drama The Naked Civil Servant.

Since then he has received a further two more trophies for Midnight Express and The Elephant Man, while earning further nominations for Alien, The Field and, most recently, TV's An Englishman in New York in 2009.

He has also been nominated for two Academy Awards, for The Elephant Man and Midnight Express.

Recent screen roles have included Ollivander in the Harry Potter series and a role in the Oscar-nominated film, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

Mr Corrie added: "He is one of a kind, an iconic figure, and Bafta is delighted to take this opportunity to honour his outstanding contribution to cinema."

Silent movie The Artist leads this year's Baftas with 12 nominations, including best film and best director.

British Cold War-era spy movie Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is close behind with 11 nominations.

The Bafta awards take place on 12 February in London.

The ceremony will be hosted by comedian and broadcaster Stephen Fry and will be broadcast on BBC One.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16759403

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PORTISHEAD MAN DELIVERS LABEL SAMPLER...

2012-01-27T15:14:00.002Z

Portishead's Geoff Barrow has made available a 2012 sampler featuring artists signed to his label, Invada Records. The compilation includes a couple of tracks from Barrow's Beak> project, whose second album is set for imminent release, and an early preview of the forthcoming LP from DROKK, which is Barrow's collaboration with composer Ben Salisbury.

Additional content is credited to shoegaze set The Fauns, Bristol troupe Scarlet Rascal & The Trainwreck, and some-time Beak> vocalist Anika, who presents an arctic disco spin on Chromatics' 'In The City'.

With all that free to download below, you can find details of all future Invada releases here: www.invada.co.uk/geoff-barrow-2012-compilation

soundcloud.com/invadauk/sets/geoff-barrow-presents-invada/s-gwTgT

BEN FOLDS FIVE CONFIRM NEW ALBUM...

2012-01-27T15:08:00.003Z

Ben Folds Five were a little coy about the prospect of a reunion last year. Folds told Spinner in September that after sessions to record three new songs for the singer-songwriter's forthcoming career retrospective compilation went well, they would "probably" regroup for a full album. And earlier this week Folds confirmed it, announcing via Twitter that recording sessions had begun.

He tweeted: "It's happening fo sho - day one in studio with Robert [Sledge, bass] and Darren [Jesse, drums] through March #NewBenFoldsFiveRecord".

The album will be the band's first since 1999's 'The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner'.

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Danny & the Champions of the World - February dates...

2012-01-27T14:52:00.002Z

Danny & the Champions of the World hit the road in February on THE PUBS ROCK TOUR:

FEBRUARY 2012
+ 10th OXFORD, The Bullingdon Arms
+ 11th LONDON, The Windmill
+ 12th LONDON, The Birkbeck Tavern
+ 14th WINCHESTER, The Railway
+ 15th SHEFFIELD, The Greystones
+ 16th LEICESTER, The Donkey
+ 17th BEDFORD, The Gordon Arms
+ 18th GATESHEAD, The Central

http://www.facebook.com/dannyandthechamps

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SPAGHETTI WESTERN ORCHESTRA NOW ON TOUR!

2012-01-27T14:13:00.003Z

THE INTERNATIONAL MUSIC & COMEDY SENSATION
Stars of the 2011 BBC Proms and Later With Jools Holland

"A near-perfect meeting of musical and visual humour" Times ★★★★

Major UK & Republic of Ireland Tour Feb - Mar 2012

"aye...aye...aye ... whah whah whah... aye...aye...aye... whah whah whahh"

Spaghetti Western Orchestra made a triumphant return to London's South Bank last week with their hilarious celebration of the iconic collaborations between Sergio Leone and Ennio Morricone. This highly theatrical show features classic themes from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, For A Few Dollars More and Once Upon a Time in the West as well as ingenious recreations of the saloons, spittoons and shotgun-slinging ambience of the 'Wild Wild West'. Now Spaghetti Western Orchestra embark on a debut tour of the UK and Ireland throughout February and March 2012.

"Wildly inventive and funny" Daily Telegraph ★★★★

Dressed in period attire against a dramatic scorched sun backdrop, five brilliant musician performers play over 100 'instruments' which range from the conventional to an incredible array of everyday objects including playing cards, coat hangers and a packet of cornflakes. The musical arrangements are accomplished and endlessly inventive, summoning the power of an entire orchestra and using foley (sound effects) artistry to recreate the punch-ups, gun-shots and jangling spurs evoking the glorious movies that made Clint Eastwood a star.

"An endearing, impressive show". The Guardian, ★★★★

Spaghetti Western Orchestra burst on to the international scene at The Montreal Jazz Festival in 2007 and has garnered critical acclaim and energetic fans whenever it has played at International Festivals throughout the world. Two previous visits to the Southbank Centre in 2009 and 2010 were sold out, the show featured on the achingly cool Later With Jools Holland in 2009 and also on the BBC Proms in August 2011.

"Take the magnificent music of Ennio Morricone, add five multi-talented, unashamedly theatrical Australians with impeccable comedy timing and let them loose on 100 instruments and you have some idea of Spaghetti Western Orchestra. A joyous celebration". London Evening Standard ★★★★

The Spaghetti Western Orchestra tour is supported by MGM HD. Tune in for Wednesday Westerns 9pm every week from 1st February on MGM HD and catch exclusive interviews and extracts from Spaghetti Western Orchestra (Sky 313 &UPC Eire Channel 325).

TOUR SCHEDULE
February 2012
7 BRIGHTON Theatre Royal 7.45pm 0844 871 7650 www.atgtickets.com/brighton
8 OXFORD New Theatre 7.30pm 0844 871 3020 www.atgtickets.com/oxford
9 BRISTOL St George's 8pm 0845 40 24 001 www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
10 LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru 7.30pm 01492 872000 www.venuecymru.co.uk
12 CAMBRIDGE Corn Exchange 7.30pm 01223 357851 www.cornex.co.uk
13 WIMBLEDON New Wimbledon Theatre 7.30pm 0844 871 7646 www.atgtickets.com/wimbledon
15 YORK Grand Opera House 7.30pm 0844 871 3024 www.atgtickets.com/york
17 SALFORD QUAYS The Lowry 5pm & 8pm 0843 208 6010 www.thelowry.com/music
18 LEEDS Town Hall 7.30pm 0113 224 3801 www.leedsconcertseason.com
19 SUNDERLAND Empire Theatre 7.30pm 0844 871 3022 www.sunderlandempire.org.uk
22 KILLARNEY INEC Theatre 7.30pm 064 667 1555 www.inec.ie
23 DUBLIN The Helix 7.30pm01 700 7000 www. thehelix.ie
24 GALWAY The Black Box Theatre 8pm 091 569 777 www.tht.ie
25 CORK Opera House 7.30pm 021 427 0022 www.corkoperahouse.ie
26 BELFAST The Ulster Hall 7.30pm 028 9033 4455 www.ulsterhall.co.uk
29 BASINGSTOKE The Anvil 7.45pm 01256 844244 www.anvilarts.org.uk

March 2012
1 COVENTRY Warwick Arts Centre 8pm 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
2 NOTTINGHAM Royal Concert Hall 7.30pm 0115 989 5555 www.trch.co.uk
3 STOKE ON TRENT Victoria Hall 7.30pm 08448717649 www.atgtickets.com/stoke
4 CARDIFF Wales Millennium Centre 7pm 029 2063 6464 www.wmc.org.uk
6 LIVERPOOL Empire Theatre 7.30pm 0844 871 3017 www.liverpoolempire.org.uk
7 LEICESTER De Montfort Hall 7.30pm 0116 233 3111 www.demontforthall.co.uk
9 GRIMSBY Auditorium 7.30pm 0844 871 3016 www.atgtickets.com/grimsby
10 FOLKESTONE Leas Cliff Hall 7.30pm 0844 871 3015 www.leascliffhall.co.uk
11 RICHMOND Theatre 7.30pm 0844 871 7651 www.atgtickets.com/richmond
12 GLASGOW City Halls 7.30pm 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowconcerthalls.com
13 EDINBURGH Festival Theatre 7.30pm 0131 529 6000 www.festivaltheatre.org.uk
14 ABERDEEN Music Hall 7.30pm 01224 641122 www.boxofficeaberdeen.com
16 BIRMINGHAM Town Hall 7.30pm 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk
17 INVERNESS Eden Court Theatre 8pm 01463 234234 www.eden-court.co.uk
18 BRADFORD St George's Hall 6pm 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

www.spaghettiwesternorchestra.com

Review: The Livesays

2012-01-27T13:29:00.002Z

The Livesays - Rose Colored Glasses (ECHOXS)
The Livesays are fronted by vocalist-guitarist-songwriter Billy Livesay who, for twelve years, toured with Clarence Clemons' band Temple of Soul, cutting a couple of albums and sharing stages with the great and the good. He can also be found playing in Slow Ride with original Foghat bassist Tony Stevens. That’s some resume, and on “Rose Colored Glasses” Livesay illustrates just why other musicians seek him out.

The band, which also includes drummer Eddie Zyne (Hall and Oates, the Monkees, Rick Derringer, Foghat and many others) are based in Florida, but it’s no surprise that it’s to the New Jersey shoreline they take their inspiration. Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny are both easy reference points as the band whip up a blues-groove, rock ‘n’ soul vibe that’s topped by Livesay’s sandpaper croon.

There’s no doubting any of the performances on “Rose Colored Glasses”. They open proceedings with the title track, a big song with Livesay and the band providing so much energy. When they slow things down on tracks like “I Waited Too Long” and “Until You Kissed Me Like That” they’re just as intense. They end the record with a muscular version of Dylan’s “My Back Pages”, a song covered by many, including fine versions by The Byrds and Steve Earle. This one’s up there with the best of them.
http://www.facebook.com/TheLivesays
Rob F.

Review: Alog

2012-01-27T10:40:00.002Z

Alog – Unemployed (Rune Grammofon)
Fans of crunching Krautrock should be aware, they’re living in interesting times and should be aiming their attention northwards. Indeed, fans of ethereal avant-post-rock, ambient drones, field recordings and hydrogenised flights of lucid fancy should also be taking notes. On “Unemployed”, their fifth album, Norwegian duo Espen Sommer Eide and Dag-Are Haugan expand their repertoire and explore strange new soundscapes. The variety and breadth of music (sound, noise – whatever you feel comfortable calling it…) astounds, as nothing appears beyond them or out of bounds.

Vocals flicker and fade, invariably treated with electricity and disguised by current, rhythms disjoint and dissipate, and digital beats and grooves rise and fall like ancient computer civilizations. It’s epic and grand, ambitious, mindbending and sometimes overpowering. Some foolish people argue that difficult music isn’t worth bothering with – it’s rewards never compensating for the time and effort taken to ‘get it’. They’re sadly mistaken, and Alog, for all their idiosyncrasies and wayward tones, make the journey just as invigorating as the arrival.
http://www.runegrammofon.com/
Simon M.

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Fighting Fiction: debut album and single...

2012-01-27T10:20:00.003Z

Fast-rising Brighton quartet Fighting Fiction release their eponymous self-titled debut album and new single 'Turning Rebellion into Money' through Xtra Mile Recordings on 27th February 2012.

An infectious punk rock record, ‘Fighting Fiction’ is full of politically charged articulate lyrics, powerful driving rhythms and catchy refrains. Featuring the single ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll is Dead and its Corpse is for Sale’ – which received strong support from fan Radio 1’s Mike Davies – all ten tracks pack a powerful punch, hitting you the head as well as the heart. Recorded and produced by friend and highly credited producer Mark Williams, (Oceansize, Million Dead, Yourcodenameis:milo, Biffy Clyro & Enter Shikari) ‘Fighting Fiction’ perfectly captures the band’s honesty, integrity and knack for writing a great pop punk song.

With a DIY approach, their keen touring ethic has seen them play alongside Frank Turner, This Town Needs Guns, The Riot Before, The Xcerts, Laura Marling and Crazy Arm; as well as festival appearances at The Lock Up Stage at Reading and Leeds Festival, The Isle of Man TT, The Isle of Wight and 2000Trees.

With support coming in thick and fast from all corners of the industry the band are set for a fantastic 2012. Ones to watch!

Full UK and Europe tour to be announced soon.

“(with) Fighting Fiction, in whose sharp songwriting there is something identifiably British, like The Clash, and they cling to their songs by their fingernails giving them a careering thrill.” KKKK from Great Escape

“Upbeat yet disheartened political messages are delivered with a rough, raw, Billy Bragg-esque brogue, and suggest that they’re a band who could make a big dent – politically and musically – in the future.” The Fly 4/5

http://www.fightingfiction.com/Fighting_Fiction/Fighting_Fiction.html
http://www.xtramilerecordings.com/

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Abba dig out archive track for The Visitors re-release...

2012-01-27T08:39:00.002Z

Pop superstars Abba are to release an unheard demo on a deluxe edition of their final album, The Visitors.

The unreleased track, From A Twinkling Star To A Passing Angel, marks the first time the Swedish band have delved into their archives since 1994.

A statement called the track, which was recorded at the peak of Abba's career, a "sensational inclusion".

The Visitors was originally released in 1981, a year before the band split. The new edition comes out in April.

"This is the first time since the Thank You For The Music box set in 1994 that Abba have opened the doors to the tape vaults to release previously unheard music from the group's heyday," a statement said.

The album will also feature bonus selections and a DVD of rare and previously unreleased material from the archives.

Resurgence

The group, comprising Agnetha Fältskog, Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, repeatedly topped the charts around the world between 1974 and 1982.

They rose to fame following victory at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974, with cult track Waterloo.

Their music enjoyed a huge resurgence in popularity thanks to the hit musical, and subsequent film, Mamma Mia!, based upon the band's best-loved tracks.

The group, which has sold over 200 million records worldwide, continues to sell more than two million records each year. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16736909

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The Archers: 26/1/2012

2012-01-27T08:00:00.001Z

Synopsis:

Pat waits on tenterhooks. Meanwhile the divisions widen at Home Farm.

Brian’s astounded. The Borchester Echo is quoting Adam and an extended family member who’s said they’re all against the dairy. Adam is equally surprised. He admits speaking to the Echo, but he only confirmed what they already knew. Brian’s convinced Pat’s responsible and wishes Adam had kept his stupid comments to himself. Adam insists they’re not stupid. He never meant this to happen, and he’s sorry, but he’s not the only one against. Brian can deal with outside opposition but being stabbed in the back by a family member is something else.

Unhappy Tony has to take more supplies to Jaxx. Helen knows it’s been hard, with Tom away.

Pat finds the HEFF inspection nerve-wracking but they get a five star rating. After a tough week, she hopes this will put a spring in Tony’s step.

Tom’s back, and it’s all systems go with the ready meals. Tom’s seen the article in the Echo. Tony admits that he spoke to them, so they’re the extended family it refers to.

Brian doesn’t know how he can go on working with Adam. Jennifer appreciates it’s a difficult situation. Brian can’t cope with her defending Adam at the moment and doesn’t want to talk about it.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01b1lnf

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Terry Jones says Monty Pythons will reunite for film...

2012-01-26T17:39:00.002Z

The surviving members of Monty Python's Flying Circus are set to reunite for another film, Terry Jones has confirmed.

The star told trade newspaper Variety that he would direct the science fiction picture, Absolutely Anything.

"It's not a Monty Python picture, but it certainly has that sensibility," he said.

Jones revealed John Cleese, Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin were on board and he still hoped to sign Eric Idle.

The last time the five remaining members of the iconic comedy group appeared together was in 1998 at the Aspen Comedy Festival.

In the new CGI movie, the Pythons will provide voices for a group of aliens who grant a human being immense power, which eventually leads to all sorts of disruption.

A talking dog named Dennis will be voiced by Mrs Doubtfire actor Robin Williams.

Jones co-directed the 1974 film Monty and the Holy Grail with Terry Gilliam and was the sole director for Life Of Brian (1979) and The Meaning of Life (1983).

In June, it was announced that Cleese, Gilliam, Palin and Jones would voice a 3D animated film based on the memoirs of the late Graham Chapman, the sixth Python, who died in 1989.

However, Idle was not involved in the film, which is expected to be released later this year.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16744299

Artes Mundi contemporary art prize shortlist revealed...

2012-01-26T16:52:00.003Z

Seven artists from around the world have been shortlisted for the UK's largest visual arts prize.

The Cardiff-based Artes Mundi promises "action and performance" as a common link between them.

Those competing for the £40,000 prize are from Cuba, India, Lithuania, Mexico, Slovenia, Sweden and the UK.

Artes Mundi chief executive Ben Borthwick praised their "exceptional quality" and hoped audiences would engage with the exhibition in October.

'Flamboyant to the intimate'

Mr Borthwick, who joined from Tate Modern in 2010, has moved the competition from spring to autumn to coincide with other visual arts events including the Turner Prize and the Frieze Art Fair.

"We are delighted with the exceptional quality of this shortlist which was drawn from a very strong field of nominations," he said.

"I look forward to welcoming the artists to Wales and creating an exhibition in October that will give audiences the opportunity to engage with the most exciting international contemporary art."

The British name on the shortlist is visual artist Phil Collins, 41, who was born in Cheshire and is a past Turner prize nominee.

His art has taken him to unrest in cities from Baghdad to Belgrade and includes using popular culture concepts ranging from TV to music videos.

Past projects have included a seven hour disco-dance marathon made in Palestine and working with former reality TV participants in Turkey.

Collins also created an indoor drive-in cinema with 15 secondhand cars in a gallery in Berlin, where he now lives.

Artes Mundi - awarded every two years - was established in 2002 and supports contemporary visual artists from around the world who are still gaining international recognition.

Organisers describe the shortlist as ranging "from the flamboyant to the intimate" with "action and performance" being the common threads that link the artists.

The shortlist was drawn up by Sofia Hernandez Chong Cuy, curator of contemporary art at Coleccion Patricia Phelps de Cisneros, New York, and Anders Kreuger, curator at M HKA in Antwerp, Belgium.

Human experience

"Shortlisting for Artes Mundi has been an honour - and a responsibility to be taken seriously," said Mr Kreuger.

"Almost 600 artists were nominated this year, and it was a huge challenge to whittle these highly accomplished individuals down to just seven.

"We have chosen seven very different but equally talented artists, of different generations and from all across the globe, to exhibit at National Museum of Art this autumn."

Some of the artists look at specific cultural or historical contexts while others engage with broader themes of human experience.

A major exhibition of work by the shortlisted artists will take place at the new National Museum of Art in Cardiff from 6 October for 14 weeks.

The winner will be named by an international judging panel midway through the exhibition in November.

All other shortlisted artists will receive a new award of £4,000 each.

In another development, one of the runners-up will be invited to present a solo show at the Mostyn contemporary art gallery in Llandudno in 2013.

Artes Mundi 5 shortlist

Miriam Backstrom (Sweden)
Tania Bruguera (Cuba)
Phil Collins (England)
Sheela Gowda (India)
Teresa Margolles (Mexico)
Darius Miksys (Lithuania)
Apolonija Sustersic (Slovenia)

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-16744925

Coldplay and Russell Brand sign up for Amnesty event...

2012-01-26T16:34:00.002Z

Coldplay, Mumford & Sons and Russell Brand are among the acts who have signed up for the Secret Policeman's Ball in March.

The concert, which benefits Amnesty International, will mark the human rights organisation's 50th anniversary.

For the first time, the event will be held outside of the UK, at New York's Radio City Music Hall.

Other acts appearing include US comedians Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert. Tickets go on sale on Monday.

The last Secret Policeman's Ball was held in London in 2008. Organisers say the move to New York will mark the special anniversary.

"For us, it's iconic and a very special thing and has provided the opportunity to really celebrate the presence of freedom of expression and free speech, and how we can move people and how we can bring people together, and just how powerful that is,'' Amnesty International spokesman Andy Hackman said.

He added that this year's line up was an "incredible representation of the best comedians and musicians in the world".

The first Secret Policeman's Ball was held in 1976 with the help of British comedy actor John Cleese.

The Fawlty Towers star enlisted his Monty Python colleagues who also participated in the event - which was called A Poke In The Eye (with a Sharp Stick).

The name, the Secret Policeman's Ball, was adopted in 1979 and the event moved from comedy to incorporate music.

Since then, the likes of Eric Clapton, Rowan Atkinson and Eddie Izzard have all taken part.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16741702

Etta James album sales soar after death...

2012-01-26T16:14:00.002Z

The late soul star Etta James has reached her highest ever position in the Billboard album charts, following her death last week, aged 73.

The Best of Etta James rose from number 162 to 46 on the Billboard 200 - even though figures were collated only two days after James's death on 20 January.

Previously, albums by the soul and blues singer had peaked at 68, with At Last, in 1961.

In total, sales of James's albums increased by 378% on the previous week.

According to Nielsen SoundScan, 30,000 copies of her albums were sold in the week following her death, compared to just over 6,000 copies the previous week.

James's 1997 hits collection Her Best has reached number 59 on the Billboard 200 while At Last has re-entered at 96.

Her signature track At Last was the best-selling James single last week, shifting 63,000 downloads.

Despite performing from an early age, fame came late to the singer, who struggled with addiction, but latterly won six Grammys - including a Lifetime Achievement award in 2003.

At Last and I'd Rather Go Blind are arguably her best-known songs. Her version of I Just Wanna Make Love to You was famously used in a TV advert.

James died at Riverside Community Hospital in California, with her husband and sons by her side. She had been undergoing treatment for leukaemia.

Members of the public will be able to pay their respects to the singer on Friday, when her body will lie in state in Inglewood, Los Angeles.

A private funeral will take place on Saturday in nearby Gardena, with a eulogy by Reverend Al Sharpton. A number of celebrities are expected to perform at the service, but no details have been released.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16739372

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Marissa Nadler Takes a Confessional Turn in Forthcoming Release The Sister, Out May 29...

2012-01-26T14:06:00.003Z

Boston-based songstress Marissa Nadler has announced the forthcoming release of The Sister, a collection of eight new tracks subtly linked to last year's self-titled critically acclaimed LP, out May 29 on her own Box Of Cedar Records.

"Heartbreak is a great muse, but it can wear you down," she admits, referring to the stormy relationships that haunted many of the heavenly hooks on her most recent works. "For The Sister, I realized I had muses all around me, whether it was childhood, betrayal, friendships, new love, nature, or hope. The narrator's stronger in my songs now, and more able to bounce back if they choose to."

The dream-folk artist notes that each year she feels freer to write what she wants. On The Sister she keeps her confessionals as intimate as possible explaining, "I wanted the starkness of every song to reflect the lyrical content. Some of my biggest influences are confessional songwriters. It's always been a very powerful thing to listen to Elliott Smith and Joni Mitchell, and feel so much from their stories."
SPIN called Nadler's 2011 full-length "one of the year's most disarming records... a cyclical, finger-picked beauty that, once you lean into it some, never lets you go," while Pitchfork gave it an "Albums of the Year: Honorable Mention" and an 8.1 review.

The release was featured on Vogue, KEXP, NPR "World Cafe: Next," NPR First Listen, who called her music "dreamy, melancholy and utterly captivating," and made American Songwriter, WXPN, and Drowned In Sound's favorite albums of 2011 lists. Additional details about The Sister to come.

For more info, please visit:
http://marissanadler.com

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Kelvox1 release debut album ‘Grazed Red’ 12th March 2012 on Aagoo...

2012-01-26T11:26:00.003Z

Kelvox1 release debut album ‘Grazed Red’
- out 12 March 2012 on Aagoo -

“Haunted underwater glitchstep from Cambridge. Burial meets David Lynch meets “Let’s Dance” meets Sega Megadrive. Crushing Death and Grief

Kelvox1 are a three-piece group from Cambridge, UK who use synths, sampler, voice, guitar, bass and other useful objects that happen to be at hand. Over the past year and a half they have played with bands including Gary War, Braids and Conquering Animal Sound.

A Kelvox1 recording is as much an exploration or an account of the location it is recorded in as it is a document of a song. The texture of the space is only revealed by the sounds produced in it, which are like matches being lit in a darkened room. In these circumstances, the band relinquish mastery over the sounds they record, they can only use their equipment to harness and perhaps direct the properties of the environment. The lack of complete control is the condition of being in this world; what emerges is an expression of the group's attempt to create something meaningful within it.

In 'Grazed Red' there is also an idea that songs themselves are environments to be inhabited, by both the band and the listener. 'Grazed Red' is Kelvox1's first physical release.

People have said:
“Cambridge seems to be quite the unlikely hive of outsider musical activity right now, what with the hauntological techno of Nochexxx and his gang. Elsewhere on the Cambridge fringe, we have Kelvox1 – absolutely the finest new British post-rock band this here blog has heard in quite a few years.

This sense of organically expanded song-form immediately brings to mind Bark Psychosis’s classic 'Scum' single. Kelvox1 certainly have the slow-burning moodiness to justify that comparison but nothing here is quite as dank and nocturnal as 'Scum'. That is to say, the arrangements are colourful and vivid, in a fashion that recalls the electronically-enhanced-chaos-in-a-jam-room ambiance of Disco Inferno’s DI Go Pop. The sullen vocals certainly add to this.

Obviously, these comparisons put Kelvox1 very much in the UK post-rock continuum. However, where other bands with the same influences (Epic45 and Hood spring to mind) don’t really add much to the mix, Kelvox1 clearly have their own thing going on.” Bubblegum Cage III

"Post-everything, their sound brings to mind instrumental dubstep visionaries Mount Kimbie, as well as the dark, expansive spaces created by the likes of Zola Jesus." We Like Wildlife

http://kelvox1.tumblr.com/

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Queen's honours: People who have turned them down are named...

2012-01-26T10:06:00.002Z

The author Roald Dahl and artist Lucien Freud are among those who have turned down honours from the Queen, according to official government records.

A list of those who declined an honour between 1951 and 1999, and who have since died, has been published for the first time.

Until now, the information was so secret it was not included in official papers released under the 30-year rule.

It has been made public following a Freedom of Information request.

News of people refusing an OBE, CBE or knighthood in the annual New Year or Birthday Honours list normally only comes to light if they volunteer the information themselves or reports are leaked.

In total 277 people are named on the list including the painters Francis Bacon and LS Lowry, the sculptor Henry Moore and novelist Aldous Huxley.

It shows that Lowry turned down more honours than anybody else, with a total of five, including an OBE in 1955, a CBE in 1961 and a knighthood in 1968.

Bacon turned down a CBE in 1960, while Freud refused the honour in the 1977 New Year's Honours list.

'Preposterous charade'

Dahl, who rejected an OBE in 1986, was among a number of writers who snubbed the accolade including CS Lewis, who turned down a CBE in 1952.

Film director Sir Alfred Hitchcock turned down a CBE in 1962, but went on to accept a knighthood from the Queen four months before his death in 1980.

The Cabinet Office had been fighting the Freedom of Information request for more than a year but was ordered to release the information by the The Information Commissioner's Office.

In the past a number of famous people have rejected or returned honours bestowed upon them by the monarch.

Beatles legend John Lennon returned his MBE in 1969, with a note to the Queen saying: "Your Majesty, I am returning this in protest against Britain's involvement in the Nigeria-Biafra thing, against our support of America in Vietnam and against Cold Turkey slipping down the charts.

"With Love, John Lennon of Bag."

In 2007, co-founder of lingerie brand Agent Provocateur Joseph Corre also rejected the title, accusing Tony Blair of being "morally corrupt".

Writer J G Ballard, who also rejected a CBE, is on record as saying he was opposed to the "preposterous charade" of the honours system.

Honours have sometimes been forfeited if a recipient is convicted of a criminal offence.

These include Roger Casement, a colonial officer in the Congo who was convicted of treason in the First World War, forfeited his knighthood and was executed.

The publication of the list comes as senior civil servants are due to decide whether ex-Royal Bank of Scotland boss Sir Fred Goodwin should be stripped of his knighthood.

The work of the Honours Forfeiture Committee is usually kept under wraps but David Cameron told MPs on Wednesday he expected it to sit in the coming days.

Political pressure has been mounting for the title awarded to Sir Fred in 2004 for "services to banking" to be withdrawn over his role in the subsequent collapse of RBS.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16736495

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Preview: SPAGHETTI WESTERN ORCHESTRA visits De Montfort Hall, Wed 7th March 2012...

2012-01-26T08:24:00.002Z

A GHP Production
THE INTERNATIONAL MUSIC & COMEDY SENSATION
Stars of the 2011 BBC Proms and Later With Jools Holland

SPAGHETTI WESTERN ORCHESTRA
visits
De Montfort Hall FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY Wed 7th March 2012

"aye...aye...aye ... whah whah whah... aye...aye...aye... whah whah whahh"

Spaghetti Western Orchestra makes a triumphant return to the UK with their hilarious celebration of the iconic collaborations between Sergio Leone and Ennio Morricone. This highly theatrical show features classic themes from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, For A Few Dollars More and Once Upon a Time in the West as well as ingenious recreations of the saloons, spittoons and shotgun-slinging atmosphere of the 'Wild Wild West'. As part of a major UK and Ireland tour Spaghetti Western Orchestra comes to De Montfort Hall for just one performance on Wednesday 7th March.

"Wildly inventive and funny" Daily Telegraph ★★★★

Dressed in period attire against a dramatic scorched sun backdrop, five brilliant musician performers play over 100 'instruments' which range from the conventional to an incredible array of everyday objects including playing cards, coat hangers and a packet of cornflakes. The musical arrangements are accomplished and endlessly inventive, summoning the power of an entire orchestra and using foley (sound effect) artistry to recreate the punch-ups, gun-shots and jangling spurs evoking the glorious movies that made Clint Eastwood a star.

"An endearing, impressive show". The Guardian, ★★★★

Spaghetti Western Orchestra burst on to the international scene at The Montreal Jazz Festival in 2007 and has garnered critical acclaim and energetic fans whenever it has played at International Festivals throughout the world. Two previous visits to London's Southbank Centre in 2009 and 2010 were sold out, the show featured on the achingly cool Later With Jools Holland in 2009 and also on the BBC Proms in August 2011.

"Take the magnificent music of Ennio Morricone, add five multi-talented, unashamedly theatrical Australians with impeccable comedy timing and let them loose on 100 instruments and you have some idea of Spaghetti Western Orchestra. A joyous celebration." London Evening Standard ★★★★

www.spaghettiwesternorchestra.com

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RockNess 2012 festival line-up announced...

2012-01-26T07:38:00.002Z

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Biffy Clyro and singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran are to appear at this summer's RockNess music festival.

Others announced for the Highlands music event include electronic act Deadmau5 and dance music act Justice.

Sheeran is nominated for best male, breakthrough act, best single and best album at next month's Brit Awards.

Biffy Clyro were at RockNess in 2009 and the Scottish band will headline June's festival at Dores, close to the shores of Loch Ness.

Band members Simon Neil, Ben Johnston and James Johnston said they were looking forward to performing again at the site near Inverness.

'Something extra-spectacular'

In a statement, the band said: ''We are thrilled to be returning to RockNess in June, and this time we'll be headlining.

"The location is amazing and the enthusiastic crowd made for a memorable experience in 2009, so we're counting down the days until our return in 2012.''

RockNess will be held from 8-10 June.

Metronomy, Noah and the Whale, Wretch 32 and Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs have also been confirmed.

The festival's organisers expect to make further announcements on other bands and singers to appear.

Director Jim King said: "I'm so happy with the list of acts we're announcing today that I now just can't wait for the first tent peg in the ground and for the party to start.

"It was only a matter of time before we got lucky and were able to welcome Biffy Clyro back to Loch Ness.

"Since their debut they've gone on to become one of the biggest rock bands in the UK and on home turf you know they're going to produce something extra-spectacular."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-16727569

The Archers: 25/1/2012

2012-01-26T07:13:00.001Z

Synopsis:

Brian tries to win friends and Jim is typically outspoken.

Jolene remains tight-lipped about what’s been said about Brian in The Bull. And when Jim’s equally surprised to see him, Brian decides to show his face at the NFU meeting upstairs. Jim pulls no punches in telling him he’s against the dairy.

Jim’s worried that a promise of four hours of gardening is too general. Jolene assures him Harry will attract a lot of bidders at the auction but it’s not his gardening skills they’re after. Jim also needs to find out how many hours the Cider Club members have actually put in.

When Brian appears, David suggests any conversation about the dairy project should wait till after the meeting. Ed reckons Mike might be surprised by what Oliver says. Oliver puts across his case. Mike’s still not convinced but the meeting ends with a vote to start a badger vaccination programme.

Mike tells Brian he’s basically in favour of the dairy but Brian’s attempt to buy everyone a drink fails – he ends up on his own. At least he can tell Jenny he tried. And he tells Jolene he can look forward to the Echo coming out tomorrow. As far as he knows there’s nothing in it about the dairy.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01b1g9d

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Kim Gordon / Bill Nace to play London's Café Oto on Wednesday February 22nd...

2012-01-25T18:53:00.003Z

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Kim Gordon's musical collaboration with Boston's free-noise guitarist Bill Nace, BODY/HEAD play London's Café Oto on Wednesday February 22nd.
Doors: 8pm
Tickets: £10 advance/£12 on the door http://www.cafeoto.co.uk/

BODY/HEAD is an improv based song duo with 2 guitars and vocals inspired by early Syd Barrett Pink Floyd and
French film maker Catherine Breillat.

To date the duo have released only a limited cassette through Ecstatic Peace! and covered 'Fever' for an Ultra Eczema compilation

Kim Gordon
A founding member of Sonic Youth - where she plays bass and guitar and sings, Kim Gordon has also been involved in numerous collaborations with other artists and musicians including Julie Cafritz and Yoshimi in Free Kitten, Mirror/Dash with Thurston Moore and others including Lydia Lunch, Vincent Gallo, and Yoko Ono. With an extensive history in the world of art, both as an artist, writer and curator Gordon has maintained ongoing creative relationships with visual artists such as Dan Graham, Raymond Pettibon, Mike Kelley, Jutta Koether and Richard Prince and exhibited her own installation work across the US, Japan and Europe.

Bill Nace
Guitarist Bill Nace has ripped a new black hole in the free rock universe as a constant, energising presence in the Boston area performing with Chris Corsano in Vampire Belt (and together with Jessica Rylan as Vampire Can't), Thurston Moore in Northampton Wools, x.0.4 with Jake Meginsky & John Truscinski and a coruscating duo with free reed player Paul Flaherty. His collaborations even extended to a short-lived association with Brighton noiseniks Dylan Nyoukis & Karen Constance (aka Blood Stereo) under the Ceylon Mange moniker. Nace has released LPs on Ecstatic Peace!, 8mm, Ultra Eczema and more...

Geoffrey Rush is named Australian of the year...

2012-01-25T18:47:00.002Z

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Oscar-winning actor Geoffrey Rush has been named Australian Of The Year in recognition of his dedication and achievement in the arts.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard presented the star with the accolade, the highest award bestowed in his native country, during a ceremony in Canberra.

The 60-year-old's film credits include The King's Speech and the Pirates of the Caribbean series.

In 1997, he became the first Australian-born actor to win an Oscar.

The star took home the prestigious trophy for his portrayal of David Helfgott, a pianist who suffers a psychological breakdown, in the movie Shine.

He has been nominated three times since, for his roles in Shakespeare In Love, Quills and The King's Speech.

Organisers of the Australian Of The Year accolade said Rush had achieved the "rare international distinction of the Triple Crown - an Oscar, a Tony and an Emmy".

According to the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper, as Rush accepted the top Australian prize, he compared the arts to spiders.

''We are told that at any given moment we are no further than a few metres away from a spider - this statistic is now also true for the arts,'' he said.

''Unfortunately, like spiders, it means we can be invisible - some people, too many, don't know we're there.''

Born in Toowoomba in Queensland, Rush now lives in Melbourne.

Last year, he was made president of the newly-established Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts.

The actor has also won three Baftas and in 2011 was given the Helpmann Award, which also recognises artistic achievement and excellence in Australia's performing arts sector.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16720698

Top Greek film maker Angelopoulos dies in road accident...

2012-01-25T15:57:00.002Z

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An award-winning Greek film director, Theodoros Angelopoulos, has died after being hit by a motorcycle.

Angelopoulos was 76. He died in hospital from head injuries after being knocked down near the port of Piraeus.

He was famous for a style of film that involved long, carefully choreographed sequences, as he examined political and historical themes from modern Greece.

He won the top prize at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival - the Palme d'Or - for his film Eternity and a Day.

Many of his other films - including Ulysses's Gaze and The Travelling Players - also received awards and high critical praise.

The Nazi occupation of Greece in World War II and ensuing civil war were big themes in his early films.

He had started shooting a new film about the effect of the current economic crisis on Greeks. He was crossing a road when the motorcycle hit him.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-16715853

Condom law slapped on LA adult film stars...

2012-01-25T15:52:00.003Z

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Actors making pornographic movies in Los Angeles will be required to use condoms while filming, under a new law signed by the city mayor.

The new regulation has been welcomed by health officials but pornography industry leaders say it could force them to abandon the city.

LA's San Fernando Valley is considered the capital of the multibillion-dollar US adult film industry.

Correspondents say it is not yet clear how the new law will be enforced.

The LA-based Aids Healthcare Foundation welcomed the move saying it was crucial in protecting adult film actors from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

The foundation, which has campaigned for the measure for six years, said it would now seek similar condom requirement elsewhere in the US.

"The city of Los Angeles has done the right thing. They've done the right thing for the performers," said foundation president Michael Weinstein.

He said his group would also be vigilant in keeping track of where porn producers might move to.

Several of the industry's biggest adult filmmakers have said they might consider moving just outside city boundaries.

They insist that adult films featuring condoms are not as popular and that some actors prefer not to use them.

The new law was signed by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa on Monday.

The city council has now asked the police, city attorney's office and workplace safety officials to figure out how they enforce the rule, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Industry experts estimate as many as 90% of all pornographic films produced in the US are made in Los Angeles.

Last year, pornographic film productions across the US were temporarily shut down after an adult film performer tested positive for HIV - the virus that causes Aids.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-16712744

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy dreams of Pakistan's first Oscar...

2012-01-25T15:48:00.002Z

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Film-maker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has become the first Pakistani to win an Oscar nomination for best documentary in the short subject category.

Saving Face is about the problem of acid attacks on women in Pakistan.

In a statement to the BBC she said that she was "speechless" to receive the nomination which was the "stuff dreams are made of".

The film chronicles the work of acclaimed British-Pakistani plastic surgeon Mohammad Jawad.

It follows him as he travels around the country to perform reconstructive surgery on survivors of acid violence.

The BBC's M Ilyas Khan says that the problem is systematically under-reported in Pakistan - official figures say there are 100 cases of acid violence every year, although it is estimated that the actual figure is far greater.

Our correspondent says that this is partly because structural inequalities make it difficult for women to access the judicial system, while there are long standing cultural practices that enhance gender discrimination.

Saving Face is an account of such violence told by survivors going through the recovery and reconciliation process.

It is also about the resilience and strength of women struggling for justice.

The observational documentary was filmed entirely in Pakistan, primarily in the centre of the country and in the cities of Rawalpindi, Karachi and Islamabad.

"An Academy Award nomination is stuff dreams are made of," Ms Obaid-Chinoy told the BBC.

"It has reaffirmed my belief it doesn't matter who you are or where you come from, if you put quality work out there, it will be appreciated.

"I hope I can make Pakistan proud by bringing home an Oscar."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-16715099

Exciting news for Steve Austin fans...

2012-01-25T15:38:00.003Z

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THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION

For anyone growing up in the 1970s there were several TV series that could be described as "essential viewing", but none were more deserving of that accolade than THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN, the TV series that mixed Bond-ian espionage action with sci-fi adventure and, along the way, became a pop culture institution. Now, THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION is coming to DVD as a 40-disc set, featuring every episode from each of the show's five seasons, plus the three original TV movies that started it all, along with the three further TV movies that followed in the late 1980s and early 90s. Additionally, this edition includes extensive stills galleries and episode guide booklets exclusive to the UK release, making this the world's most definitive Six Million Dollar Man DVD collection.

ICARUS LINE CONFIRMED AS MAIN SUPPORT TO KILLING JOKE EUROPEAN TOUR Begins on 2nd MARCH...

2012-01-25T14:37:00.002Z

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ICARUS LINE
CONFIRMED AS MAIN SUPPORT TO KILLING JOKE
EUROPEAN TOUR Begins on 2nd MARCH
The Icarus Line have confirmed they will be the main support on KILLING JOKE’S upcoming European tour.

The band will re-release their double A-Side 7" featuring a non-album version of 'Bad Blood' and their scuzzy cover of The Flamin' Groovies' 'Slow Death' on 5th March.

FULL EUROPEAN DATES w/ Killing Joke

02-Mar Ireland Dublin Button Factory
04-Mar UK Exeter Lemon Grove
05-Mar UK Bristol Academy
06-Mar UK Norwich Waterfront
08-Mar UK London Roundhouse
09-Mar UK Sheffield Corporation
10-Mar UK Manchester Academy 2
12-Mar UK Glasgow ABC
13-Mar UK Newcastle Academy
14-Mar UK Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall
16-Mar UK Portsmouth Pyramids
17-Mar UK Oxford Academy
11-Apr Holland Amsterdam Melkweg
13-Apr France Paris La Cigale
14-Apr France Strasbourg La Laiterie
16-Apr France Toulouse Bikini
17-Apr Spain Barcelona Bikini
19-Apr France Lyon Transbordeur
20-Apr Italy Milan/Trezzo Live Club
21-Apr Italy Florence Viper
22-Apr Italy Rome Orion
24-Apr Switzerland Zurich Abart
25-Apr Austria Vienna Szene Wien
27-Apr Germany Munich Backstage
29-Apr Germany Hamburg Fabrik
01-May Germany Frankfurt Batschkapp
02-May Germany Berlin Postbahnof
03-May Belgium Gent Vooruit
04-May Finland Helsinki Circus
05-May Poland Wroclaw Browar Mieszczanski

" this [is a] rather excellent new record" The Quietus

"Wildlife rocks like rock still truly matters...." **** Uncut

"The Icarus Line are going to return with a new record this year and I am over the moon. Are you? You bloody well should be" Drowned in Sound

Review: Even

2012-01-25T14:05:00.002Z

Even - In Another Time (El Reno Music)
Nearly four years since their last album, Australian guitar pop legends Even return to the fray with a 12 track collection that plays to all their strengths. They’ve always been first rate melody merchants, and “In Another Time” will surely cement their reputation; it’s chock full of fine upbeat tunes, vigourous vocals and possesses more hooks than a Japanese trawler captain in an exceptionally irresponsible mood.

Singling out particular tracks for praise may be problematic, simply because there’s so much strong material to choose from. Ashley Naylor and the band are on top form and great tracks tumble from the speakers with alarming regularity. They kick off with “Satellite/Sunlight”, at six and a half minutes, hardly typical power pop fare, but it’s only one of seven tracks over four minutes in length. I’m sure it will remind some listeners of Oasis at their most epic, but goodness, the hooks come thick and fast, and it never shirks its emphatic Motown-esque sing-a-long duties. “No Star” follows it, and fans of classic pop songwriting will be celebrating tonight. After that it’s “Temperamental Flower”, a wonderful, borderline hazy psyche-pop track that was originally released as a single in 2009, but could have been written at any point since 1967, and so it goes on.

Fans of The Posies circa “Frosting…”, “Rocks” period Primal Scream, the Faces stomp, the Stones’ swagger, Big Star’s Memphis take on the Beatles, Not Lame Records, indeed anyone searching for a musical reason to get out of bed in the morning, or an a rock ‘n’ roll excuse to stay up late, should buy “In Another Time” pronto. Thank me later.
http://www.even.com.au/
Rob F.

Review: Joe Brownrigg

2012-01-25T13:54:00.002Z

Joe Brownrigg - Modern World (Independent)
When this project was suggested to Joe Brownrigg he didn’t have any shortage of stuff to write about. The Ottawa native is a father of two, a longtime participant on the local music scene, and worked some of the more ‘interesting’ districts of Ottawa as a police officer. For this album he was instructed by producer Matt Ouimet to write a collection of songs as quickly as possible, just to see what would happen. They were obviously both pleased with the results. The nine songs that Brownrigg composed became “Modern World”, his debut solo record.

Though very much a modern singer-songwriter, it’s artist like James Taylor and Jackson Browne that seem to have provided inspiration. Brownrigg’s a wordsmith and understands a songwriter’s prime purpose is to get their message across, whether it’s a straight-ahead story, or something more abstract, like ideas or emotions. Brownrigg repeatedly hits his targets, and Ouimet frames his words in retro keys (“Ebb and Flow”, “Here to Stay”), gentle strings (“Hope”, “Over and Over”) and upbeat pop-rock arrangements (the title track and “Here to Stay”). My current favourite is the near addictive “Running Hot on You”. If ever a track was custom made for grown-up radio listeners, it’s this one. C’mon chaps, get a copy or three to BBC Radio 2 today!
http://www.joebrownrigg.com/index
Rob F.

MITCH WINEHOUSE PLANNING AMY TRIBUTE GALA...

2012-01-25T13:28:00.002Z

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Mitch Winehouse has announced that he intends to stage a memorial concert in honour of his late daughter Amy. Early reports speculate that Lily Allen and Jessie J are in talks to appear at the benefit, which will take place later in the year.

A statement issued to the Press Association reads: "The Amy Winehouse Foundation is very excited to be planning a benefit concert in tribute to Amy. We will be talking to a variety of people in the coming months and will announce those performing as soon as we can".

It's said that the charity concert will aim to attract those artists who inspired, and are inspired by, Winehouse's musical oeuvre. An early contender could, in that case, be N-Dubz rapper Dappy, with his self-styled "homage to the 27 Club and amazing artists such as Amy Winehouse", the astonishing (and Brian May-featuring) 'Rockstar'. Or not.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5tKSeSF8-w

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

FRIENDLY FIRES WRITING IN REMOTE SWEDISH STUDIO...

2012-01-25T09:25:00.002Z

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Friendly Fires have told BBC 6music that they are off to Sweden for some "exploratory music making"; some of which could, if strong enough, feature on a successor to last year's 'Pala' LP.

Says singer Ed Macfarlane: "We tend to write quite good music in quite secluded, quite bleak places, in minus 25 degree weather. Sweden, log cabin, pretty bleak".

It seems he's even willing to sacrifice inter-band relations (and at worst, his own life) in the name of innovative songwriting, telling 6music that the group aim to emulate in the studio the close conditions of one very ill-fated Stanley Kubrick movie.

"I think we are trying to force on an element of the film 'The Shining'", he says. "We're trying to alienate ourselves into a world of music alone and see what we come up with".

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

Costa prize: Andrew Miller takes award for novel Pure...

2012-01-25T09:18:00.003Z

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Andrew Miller has won the £30,000 Costa Book of the Year Award for his novel Pure, set in a Parisian cemetery in the run up to the French revolution.

Chair of the judges, London Evening Standard editor Geordie Greig, praised the book's "vivid rendition" of the era.

Mr Miller beat the Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, Moira Young, Christie Watson and Matthew Hollis to the prize.

He said winning was "unsettling" but "deeply pleasurable".

Pure is the story of a young engineer sent to Paris on the orders of the king to demolish an ancient cemetery that is over-flowing with the dead.

Mr Greig said the novel was "a morality tale that engrosses with its vivid rendition of pre-revolutionary France".

Bananas and curry

The judges, who included novelist Patrick Gale and actors Hugh Dennis and Dervla Kirwan, spent 90 minutes ahead of the ceremony in central London coming to a decision.

Mr Greig said there had been "passionately held views over two books".

He described the tussle over who should win as a "forceful wrangle" and said having to chose between different genres - that included biography, poetry, children's literature, and novels -was like "comparing bananas with chicken curry".

The other books in the running were: Matthew Hollis' biography of the poet Edward Thomas, who was killed on the western front in 1917; Christie Watson's debut novel Tiny Sunbirds Far Away; Carol Ann Duffy's collection of verse, The Bees; and Blood Red Road by children's author Moira Young.

Mr Miller's first response on picking up the prize, formerly known as the Whitbread Book Awards, was "blimey".

The Bristol-born author thanked his editor and agent and said: "It's a strange journey, you spend three year's in a room on your own and then this, little unsettling but deeply pleasurable. It's a very happy occasion".

The five short listed authors each receive £5,000.

They were selected from 568 entries.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony Costa's managing director John Derkach said the awards had "an excellent track record of recognising and celebrating some of the very best current British writing".

The prize was won last year by poet Jo Shapcott for her book of verse Of Mutability.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16703294

Kylie Minogue to revive old hits...

2012-01-25T09:11:00.003Z

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Australian popstar Kylie Minogue is to celebrate her 25 years in showbusiness by re-recording some of her old and popular hits.

The singer, who released her debut single The Locomotion in 1987, has recorded an acoustic version of her 1992 hit Finer Feelings.

A 24-piece orchestra accompanied the star's recording session, which took place at London's Abbey Road studios.

The 43-year-old will release more tracks later this year.

Minogue made her name playing the teenage mechanic Charlene Mitchell in the Australian soap Neighbours, before she launched her pop career.

Her debut single spent seven weeks at number one in her native country and went to on become the highest selling single of the decade.

In the UK, her first 13 singles reached the top ten and in 2008, collected an OBE.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16714915

The Archers: 24/1/2012

2012-01-25T07:29:00.001Z

Synopsis:

Neil lends a helping hand, while Susan inadvertently causes offence.

Clarrie enjoys looking after Keira but tells Susan that she needs a job before her jobseekers’ allowance stops in March.

Jim asks Susan if Neil could offer something for the promises auction. Susan points out how busy he is. Jim persuades Clarrie to offer gardening advice. Jim also needs to sort the share out of cider to club members. Susan reminds him not to forget his own contribution.

Tracy’s called Neil round to sort out her painting. She’s painting light over dark. Neil reckons he’s got some white emulsion which will solve the problem. Tracy persuades him to fetch it, so she can get on while she’s got the chance, but then persuades him to start it for her.

Jennifer finds the village shop a godsend for last minute essentials but is uncomfortable when Susan brings up Adam’s rant on Radio Borsetshire, and the tricky situation with Adam and Brian. Jennifer points out that the dairy is a Borchester Land, not Home Farm, project. She’s dismayed that Susan thinks so many people are against it, and that Brian’s avoiding The Bull.

Neil thinks Susan’s touched a nerve. David’s having his NFU meeting about the badger vaccination at the Bull tomorrow evening, so they shall see if Brian will go to that.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b019rqcg

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Mick Jagger declines cuppa tea and biscuit...

2012-01-24T20:40:00.002Z

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Sir Mick Jagger has declined an invitation to a UK event at the World Economic Forum in Davos after complaining he feared he would be used as a "political football".

The tea party, hosted by Prime Minister David Cameron at the Swiss resort, is designed to showcase British talent.

Sir Mick said he would now cut short his visit to Davos citing "inaccurate" comments on his political allegiances.

He said he had "eschewed party politics" during his career.

Others still expected to attend the event include model Lily Cole and Sir Tim Berners-Lee.

Sir Mick issued a statement following several stories in UK newspapers.

The Rolling Stones frontman said: ''During my career I have always eschewed party politics and came to Davos as a guest, as I thought it would be stimulating.

"I have always been interested in economics and world events.

"I now find myself being used as a political football and there has been a lot of comment about my political allegiances which are inaccurate.

"I think it's best I decline the invitation to the key event and curtail my visit."

London Mayor Boris Johnson is also expected to attend the event.

His spokesman said earlier: "The British delegation at Davos decided having a cup of tea and a biscuit mid-afternoon was the most frugal and efficient way of getting access to the global financial elite and to tell them about investment opportunities in UK, not least in this Olympic year.

"The mayor was asked if his name could be put on the invitation in order to attract the best crowd and be there to bang the drum for London."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16709058

NORAH JONES SET TO RELEASE NEW DANGER MOUSE PRODUCED ALBUM THIS SPRING ENTITLED "LITTLE BROKEN HEARTS"...

2012-01-24T18:50:00.002Z

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Norah Jones is set to release a new album this spring entitled Little Broken Hearts (Blue Note/EMI), a collaboration with the producer and musician Danger Mouse. The two first worked together when Danger Mouse called upon Jones to contribute vocals to his acclaimed 2011 album ROME, and their connection proved deep enough that they decided to collaborate on Jones’ fifth studio album. Little Broken Hearts, which features original songs co-written by Jones and Danger Mouse, is the fascinating next step in the artistic evolution of one of the most intriguing singers to have emerged in the past decade. Together they have married their highly personal styles to create an entirely new sound.

It was that singular voice that caught the attention of Danger Mouse as he began to conceptualize ROME, his homage to classic Italian film score music. He already had Jack White in mind for the male role, and he and his collaborator Daniele Luppi realized that Norah’s voice would give the project the perfect balance it needed. Jones contributed three standout songs to ROME (check out a stripped-down live acoustic version of “Black” on RollingStone.com) and around the same time she and Danger Mouse began working on some of the material that would eventually become Little Broken Hearts.

The duo reconvened in Danger Mouse’s Los Angeles studio this past fall to finish what they had begun. The songs were all built from the ground up in the studio, with Jones and Danger Mouse sharing all the songwriting credits and performing the majority of the instrumental parts; Jones on piano, keyboards, bass, and guitar, and Danger Mouse contributing drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and string arrangements.

http://www.norahjones.com/

SWEET BILLY PILGRIM ‘CROWN AND TREATY’ New album released April 16th...

2012-01-24T18:31:00.002Z

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SWEET BILLY PILGRIM
‘CROWN AND TREATY’
New album released April 16th

HEADLINING
HMV ‘NEXT BIG THING’
Borderline, London – Feb 6th

EMI Label Services is delighted to announce the brand new album by Sweet Billy Pilgrim. Entitled ‘Crown And Treaty’ it’s the follow-up to the Mercury Music Prize nominated album ‘Twice Born Men’, released in 2009.

‘Crown And Treaty’ is quite simply stunning. Ambitious, literate, dramatic, heartfelt, beautiful, artistic and capable of moving you to tears, it is the sound of a band taking a quantum leap forward, throwing every ounce of their belief, passion and dreams into the creation of a truly special body of work.

A rumination upon history and our place within it, ‘Crown And Treaty’ is the result of songwriter Tim Elsenburg’s change in circumstances, living alone for the first time in many years with enough money finally from a small publishing deal to actually devote himself full-time to making a new record. With the ability to use every creative moment in the pursuit of his vision, ‘Crown And Treaty’ is a masterpiece; the sound of a band sealing their artistry with wax and signet ring to send it out into the world.

“I wanted to talk about history, and the idea that we're all chained to it; all our ideas, actions, wants, needs... everything, are tied to what's gone before. We might not see it consciously but everything we do is coloured by the past, for better or worse, and to be able to break away you have to recognise it and make your peace. You have to crown it. Make a pact with it, and move on.”

Having recorded ‘Twice Born Men’ in his shed, this time Tim was living and working in a tiny bungalow in the country. And as he watched the seasons turn outside the windows and often had to stop recording as the birdsong intruded onto the tape, he knew the shape of this new album was going to be bigger and more ambitious in every respect.

“I've always wanted to make a record and throw practical considerations to the wind; to let my imagination run riot, and make music with all the stuff I can hear in my head, without having to worry about how we're going to play it live, or how it might be received after a previous record. And this time, I wanted to make it in bold strokes... less smudging... primary colours. Basically, I wanted to make a record that sounded like a million dollars for next to nothing. My physical view, from the window, had opened up. This record was going to have the same feeling.”

And how! The previous shades of Nick Drake, Scott Walker, Elbow, The Blue Nile and John Martyn that have infused Sweet Billy Pilgrim’s sound have been expanded and driven to new heights. Each and every song on ‘Crown And Treaty’ is an unfurling, revealing gem; a beautiful, moving, uplifting treat.

From ‘Joyful Reunion’ with its glorious marching beats, tales of Emperor Charlemagne and epic, swelling finale, through the choral singalong of ‘Brugada’, to the delicate beauty of ‘Blood Is Big Expense’, this is the sound of Sweet Billy Pilgrim stepping out of the shadows and establishing themselves as one of the most exciting surprises of 2012.

Tracks such as ‘Archaeology’, which reveals its pop heart amidst Sylvian-esque sonic experimentation and ‘Kracklite’ which blossoms from its initial Portishead-meets-Talk Talk stately grandeur into a driving guitar stomp reveal a band whose talents have exploded. Swirling throughout are mercurial hints of Spiritualized, the Beach Boys, Vaughan Williams and Bon Iver, traces of Steely Dan, Prefab Sprout, Wilco and Tom Waits – but this majestic brew is mere background to something truly magical, a distillation of atmosphere that creates a whole new world to explore.

Tim’s songwriting and production talents, with an obsessive attention to detail, have found shape in the careful hands of band members Anthony Bishop, Alistair Hamer and new addition to the group vocalist Jana Carpenter. Together, they have delivered in ‘Crown And Treaty’ a glorious body of work that will stand the test of time.

To download one of the album’s standout tracks, just log on to the band’s website and revel in the sounds of ‘Brugada’. Sweet Billy Pilgrim will also be headlining the Borderline as part of the HMV ‘Next Big Thing’ gigs on February 6th. More live shows will be announced soon.

http://www.sweetbillypilgrim.com/
http://www.facebook.com/sweetbillypilgrim

Oscars: Hugo has 11 nominations, The Artist has 10...

2012-01-24T14:58:00.003Z

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Martin Scorsese's 3D epic adventure film Hugo leads the charge at this year's Academy Awards with 11 nods, including best film and director.

War Horse, The Artist, Moneyball, The Tree Of Life, Midnight In Paris, The Help, The Descendants, and Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close complete the best picture category.

Meryl Streep and George Clooney are nominated for the best acting prizes.

The 84th Academy Awards take place in Los Angeles on 26 February.

Hugo, the story of an orphaned boy living inside a giant clock in a French railway station, was followed closely in the nominations list by silent movie The Artist, which had 10 mentions.

Oscars 2012 - nominees in full

France's Michel Hazanavicius received nods for writing and directing the comedy, while his wife Berenice Bejo was named in the best supporting actress category.

The film's star Jean Dujardin will compete for best actor along with Clooney (The Descendants), Demian Bichir (A Better Life), Brad Pitt (Moneyball) and British actor Gary Oldman (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy).

It is Oldman's first nomination, after more than 30 years on the big screen.

The British star said: "You may have heard this before, but it has never been truer than it is for me today: It is extremely humbling, gratifying, and delightful to have your work recognized by the Academy, and to join the celebrated ranks of previous nominees and colleagues. Amazing."

Streep, who received her nod for her portrayal of the former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady, has now been nominated for 17 Academy Awards - more than any other actor.

It means she pulls further ahead from joint second-place holders Katharine Hepburn and Jack Nicholson, who have 12 apiece.

She has won twice, for Kramer vs Kramer and Sophie's Choice.

Other contenders in this year's best actress category were Glenn Close (Albert Nobbs), Viola Davis (The Help), Rooney Mara (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) and Michelle Williams (My Week With Marilyn).

Hugo did not receive any nominations in the acting categories, mainly being recognised for its technical achievements - including art direction, film editing and visual effects.

'Absolutely thrilled'

Woody Allen picked up a nomination for best director for his movie Midnight In Paris, along with Terrence Malick for The Tree Of Life and Alexander Payne for The Descendants.

Sports drama Moneyball, Steven Spielberg's War Horse, and civil rights tale The Help all scored six nominations.

Octavia Spencer and Jessica Chastain will go head to head for the best supporting actress prize for the latter film.

Melissa McCarthy and Janet McTeer complete the category for their roles in Bridesmaids and Albert Nobbs respectively.

British star Kenneth Branagh will vye for the best supporting actor title, after playing one of his childhood idols in My Week With Marilyn.

"It was a rare honour to play Sir Laurence Olivier," he told the BBC. "To be recognised by the Academy for doing so is overwhelming. I'm absolutely thrilled."

Branagh's competition comes from Jonah Hill (Moneyball), Nick Nolte (Warrior), Max von Sydow and Max von Sydow (Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close).

Christopher Plummer completes the shortlist, for the movie Beginners, in which he plays an elderly father who comes out of the closet.

With a career that spans 60 years, Plummer's work largely went unrecognised until two years ago, when he was nominated in the supporting actor category for his portrayal of Leo Tolstoy in The Last Station.

If he wins this time, the 82-year-old Plummer will become the oldest ever actor to receive an Oscar, surpassing Jessica Tandy who was 80 when she was named best actress for Driving Miss Daisy.

Kung Fu Panda 2 was recognised in the animated film category, along with A Cat In Paris, Chico And Rita, Puss In Boots and Rango.

Iranian film A Separation, which recently triumphed at the London Critics Circle awards, received two nods, including best foreign language movie and original screenplay.

As always, there were some surprises. Steve McQueen's controversial film Shame, starring Michael Fassbender as a sex addict, was notably absent from any of the nominations.

We Need To Talk About Kevin and Drive, both of which have proven popular with voters at other awards ceremonies, were also missing from the Academy's longlist.

Oscar nomination film tally

Hugo - 11
The Artist - 10
The Help - 6
Moneyball - 6
War Horse - 6
The Descendants - 5
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - 4
Midnight in Paris - 4

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16699960

Noel Gallagher honoured with godlike genius NME award...

2012-01-24T11:42:00.003Z

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Noel Gallagher is to be honoured with the godlike genius prize at this year's NME Awards.

The former Oasis star follows acts like The Clash, Paul Weller and New Order in winning the gong.

He picks up the award as Blur prepare to collect this year's outstanding contribution to music prize at the Brit Awards next month.

Noel Gallagher, 44, already has the Brits title having won it in 2007 as a member of Oasis.

The guitarist, who launched his solo career fronting The High Flying Birds in 2011, will pick up his prize at the NME Awards on 29 February at London's O2 Academy Brixton.

"I would like to thank NME for bestowing upon me such a great accolade," said Noel Gallagher.

"I have dreamt of this moment since I was 43 years old.

"I accept that I am now a genius, just like God."

Noel Gallagher wrote Oasis hits including chart-toppers Don't Look Back In Anger, Some Might Say and Go Let It Out.

He quit the band in 2009 after falling out with brother Liam.

His debut solo album made it to number one in the album chart.

NME editor Krissi Murison said: "For the best part of two decades, the voice of one man has dominated the pages of NME more than any other. That man is Noel Gallagher.

"Opinionated, intelligent, passionate and always hilarious - Noel walks and talks it better than any other musician out there, and it's just one of the reasons why the British public loves him so dearly.

"No individual has written as many sing-out-loud classics as Noel. His songwriting has defined a generation."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/16696024

Review: Andy Griffiths

2012-01-24T10:39:00.003Z

Andy Griffiths - Looking At A Life (Independent)
With plenty of real-life experience behind him, as well as a two-decade career traipsing the cover-band circuit, Andy Griffiths debut album probably felt like a long time coming. Although the journey Griffiths has taken has been circuitous, there’s no doubting the hard work that goes into a music career that remains on the bottom rungs, and there’s also no denying the available time to practice and hone a talent can be advantageous. On “Looking At A Life” he emerges as a fully formed singer-writer, with no shortage of tales to tell, and an assured musical ability to make the best of his words.

He brings both gritty gravitas and sure-fire pop hooks to his compositions, and it’s names like Tom Petty, Elvis Costello and Graham Parker that seem the most suitable when comparisons are to made. As for definite influences, different songs do carry stylistic nuances. For example, “You Fill Me Up” wouldn’t have sounded out of place on the first Traveling Wilburys’ collection, with its mix of Beatles dynamics and American twang, and “Hooked” is a wonderful power pop track that I feel I should have discovered via one of those amazing Sound Asleep compilations that used to appear so regularly. Maybe best of all is “Bare Bones”. It incorporates a pleasing rolling rhythm, the band turn up their amps and it’ll take you back to that special period in the late ‘70s when Petty, Nick Lowe and their ilk were considered new wave.
http://www.andygriffiths.ca/
Rob F.

Review: Three Man River Band

2012-01-24T10:24:00.002Z

Three Man River Band - I Can Still Recall (Independent)
“I Can Still Recall” is the Three Man River Band’s debut album. The quartet - Jimmy O'Keefe (guitar, words), Aaron Mirenzi (banjo, words), Nathan Hesse (keyboard, vocals) and Keith Brown (percussion) – play a form of traditional Americana, and names like Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Old Crow Medicine Show and Robert Johnson get a mention in their biography. That seems straightforward enough, but a few spins of the record reveals some classic indie inspiration. Certainly, lead track “The Devil Speaks to Mary” appears to employ the same sort of haunted country acoustics used on the first Tarnation records. On the surface, an effect that referenced old time roots music, yet it seemed perfectly at home on the cutting edge 4ad label.

Whatever their influences, it’s a faultless beginning, and provides a subtle contrast to the following “Mr. Kool”, which could’ve been recorded 40 years earlier and been the result of “Future Blues” Canned Heat messing with “Workingman Dead”. Like many of the tracks on “I Can Still Recall” it rattles and rolls, and works its way into the subconscious. Indeed, there is an abundance of memorable songs here. “Floatin' on Down” is wonderfully ramshackle, but like a backwoods John Fogerty tune, it comes with a purpose, and massive hook, and “Mattawoman-Beantown Blues” might have a title to forget, but its boondocks Randy Newman vibe sticks. There’s not a moment wasted on the eight minutes of “Zebra in the Jungle”. Its lo-fi groove builds convincingly, allows the musicians to flex a little muscle and seems to be the missing link between The Black Crowes, REM and The Band.
http://www.facebook.com/threemanriverband
Rob F.

Review: Thin Lizzy at De Montfort Hall: 23/1/12...

2012-01-24T08:13:00.005Z

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Thin Lizzy at De Montfort Hall: 23/1/12
Old Father Time can be a spiteful bugger. Imagine it’s 1976, you’re 18 years old and the “Jailbreak” album and “The Boys Are Back In Town” single have made Thin Lizzy your new favourite band. The group, all five years or so older than you, are the hottest band on the circuit, ripping through tours, upstaging headliners, and finding fans amongst popsters, rockers and punks alike. Now, over 35 years later, you’re down the front at De Montfort Hall, two thirds of the band are considerably younger than you are, and the one original member of the band (as near as damn it) you’ve got a clear view of, looks the best of the bunch. 61 years old next year, Scott Gorham looks like he’s been munching the monkey glands with gusto, or perhaps there’s a portrait in his attic looking particularly shite.

There’s genuine affection between band and audience, the latter whipping up a ‘Lizzy’ chant as the lights dim, and the smiles on faces tell their own story. It’s also worth mentioning, this isn’t an audience just made up of hoary old geezers; the Thin Lizzy name still carries enough credibility to get all ages through the door. As for the show, well, it almost transcends critical analysis. There’s obviously a void where Phil Lynott should be, but the crowd and the band are in it together, and desire and enthusiasm – on both sides – carry the night. Needless to say, the hits get played, from “Bad Reputation” and “Dancing In The Moonlight” to “Boys…” the light show sparkles and everyone goes home happy and contented.
http://www.thinlizzyband.com/
Rob F.

Further UK Dates:
01/24/2012 - York, UK Barbican
01/25/2012 - Cambridge, UK Corn Exchange
01/27/2012 - Wolverhampton, UK Civic Hall
01/28/2012 - Manchester, UK 02 Apollo
01/29/2012 - Sheffield, UK City Hall
01/31/2012 - Plymouth, UK Pavilions
02/01/2012 - Cardiff, UK St. Davids Hall
02/03/2012 - Brighton, UK Dome
02/04/2012 - London, UK HMV Hammersmith Apollo

The Archers: 23/1/2012

2012-01-24T07:20:00.001Z

Synopsis:

Brian walks into a heated debate and Adam is feeling isolated.

Pat pulls no punches as she tells Brian how she feels about the mega-dairy. She’s insulted when Brian insists there’ll be room for her kind of niche farming. Their discussion gets heated.

Brian’s pleased to see Borchester Land’s new website finally up and running. Jennifer agrees it looks good but isn’t happy to learn about Brian’s spat with Pat. They’d agreed to try and build bridges. Brian insists he tried – to no avail.

Adam tells David that things are still not good with Brian, especially after Adam’s opinion was aired on Radio Borsetshire.

David praises Pip for her presentation to the Hassett Hills meeting. She’s got an idea for Brookfield too. Tom’s products are on the up and he’s good with marketing, so she thinks they should team up and do lamb burgers and sausages. She’s sure Brookfield can come back just as strongly.

David thinks her ideas are great but they haven’t got the money to develop a new product at the moment. Pip knows this, but they’d make the money back, and a profit. Whereas they’re never going to recoup any money they spend on the slurry tank. £22,000 to stay in the same place. It doesn't make sense.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b019rlnn

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Kate Beckinsale's Underworld tops US box office...

2012-01-23T17:47:00.002Z

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The fourth Underworld movie, which sees the return of Kate Beckinsale, has topped the US film chart on its debut.

Underworld Awakening made $25.4m (£16.3m) this weekend, according to official estimates.

Beckinsale starred in the first two vampire action movies in the franchise but bowed out of the third before making her comeback.

Sony's president of worldwide distribution, Rory Bruer, credited Beckinsale for the film's success.

"She is such a force. Her character - you just can't take your eyes off her. I know the character is very dear to her as well, and she just kills it," he said.

Red Tails, about the first black fighter pilots to serve in World War II - the Tuskegee Airman - entered the chart at number two.

The movie, executive produced by George Lucas, made an estimated $19.1m (£12.3m), well above expectations according to its studio, 20th Century Fox.

"I believe what George Lucas has stated all along - this is an important story and a story that must be told," said the studio's Chris Aronson.

Last week's number one, Contraband, starring Mark Wahlberg, dropped to number three with $12.2m (£7.8m).

September 11 drama, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, starring Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock, came in fourth with $10.5m (£6.8m).

Stephen Soderbergh's Haywire was fifth with takings of $9m (£5.8m).

Rounding out the top 10 were the Disney re-release of Beauty and the Beast at six, Joyful Noise at seven, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol at eight, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows at nine and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo at 10.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16678588

Razzie awards to be announced on April Fools' Day...

2012-01-23T17:25:00.002Z

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The Razzies, which honour the year's worst films, are to be given out on 1 April, organisers have announced.

The spoof prizes, formally known as The Golden Raspberrys, have traditionally been awarded the day before the Oscars.

Nominations will be announced on "Oscar Eve" - 25 February - with the main awards handed out April Fools' Day.

Organisers said moving the awards would allow its voting members more time "to see the drek they will eventually nominate".

In a statement, they said: "John Wilson and Mo Murphy, co-owners of the Razzies, saw a unique opportunity to do something they've wanted to do since their awards were created in 1980: emphasise [its] comedic intent by unveiling the "winners" of Tinsel Town's Tackiest Trophy on April Fools' Day."

It added the new schedule would also allow for more input from the movie-going public before the contenders are determined.

Organisers suggested Adam Sandler could top the list of nominees at this year's awards for his roles in Just Go With It, Bucky Larson and Jack and Jill.

He could also be a frontrunner in the worst actress category for playing Jill in the latter film.

M Night Shyamalan's The Last Airbender won the most prizes at last year's awards with five including worst director.

Ashton Kutcher was named worst actor for Valentine's Day while his co-star Jessica Alba won worst supporting actress.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16677068

Cherry Red's Releases for February 2012...

2012-01-23T17:10:00.002Z

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SERGE GAINSBOURG & BRIGITTE BARDOT
Lost Loves
ACMEM225CD

Released on 13/02/12. Serge Gainsbourg was known outside France primarily for the steamy duet J'taime moi non plus but to those at home he stood as the ultimate rebel artist. He has been described as debauched, irreverent, misanthropic, dissolute, a provocateur, a genius, an alcoholic, a poet, a national treasure and a romantic who handled language with cynical humour. His poetry was compared to Rimbaud and Baudelaire, his morality to the Marquis de Sade. He wrote and directed four controversial movies, published a scurrilous novel, his records were often denounced as obscene and he was perpetually embroiled in scandal, whether for turning up drunk on a TV show and offering to F*** fellow guest Whitney Houston, recording a reggae version of Le Marseillaise or burning a 500 franc banknote on prime-time television.

MATCHING MOLE
Matching Mole : 2cd Expanded Edition
ECLEC22311

Released on 27/02/12. Esoteric Recordings are proud to announce the release of a Deluxe 2CD Expanded edition of Matching Moleís self-titled debut album. Formed in 1971, Matching Mole featured former SOFT MACHINE drummer ROBERT WYATT, former CARAVAN keyboard player DAVE SINCLAIR, guitarist PHIL MILLER, bassist BILL McCORMICK with guest keyboard player DAVE MacRAE. Recorded between December 1971 and February 1972, MATCHING MOLE was a wonderful debut that included tracks such as ëO Carolineí, ëSigned Curtainí and ëPart of the Danceí. This Esoteric Recordings edition has been newly re-mastered from the original master tapes and is expanded to include five previously unreleased studio session alternate takes, the single versions of O Caroline and Signed Curtain, along with two BBC Radio One sessions from 1972. The booklet restores all original artwork and includes and essay by Sid Smith.

TILL TUESDAY feat AIMEE MANN
Voices Carry: Expanded Edition
HSR002

Released on 27/02/12. Til Tuesday were a popular new-wave/synth pop band of the 1980s. which brought to us the talents of Grammy award winner Aimee Mann. Til Tuesday were signed to Epic after winning Bostonís WBCN Rock & Roll Rumble in 1983 and released their debut album VOICES CARRY two years later. Through signing to Epic they secured the production talents of Mike Thorne (Soft Cell, Soft Machine, John Cale, The The and Bronski Beat). VOICES CARRY was released in 1985 and featured their breakthrough single of the same name which reached #8 in the US Hot 100 and #14 in Billboard Magazines US Rock Tracks Chart. They followed this up with two more hit singles from the album in the form of Looking Over My Shoulder and Love In A Vacuum. The latter had been a big college rock hit in its demo form before the band signed to Epic. ëTil Tuesday also managed to win the MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist with the video for the Voices Carry single in 1985, Hot Shot Records is proud to present VOICES CARRY fully remastered, in a deluxe Super Jewel case with extensive liner notes including exclusive interviews with Robert Hoimes (guitarist) and Mike Thorne as well as three bonus single remixes, two of which make their debut CD release here.

LINDA LEWIS
Fathoms Deep: Expanded Edition
CDBBR0100

Released on 13/02/12. Few artists can fuse genres as effortlessly as Linda Lewis. Along with her incredible 5 octave vocal range, Linda Lewis was able to integrate a host of different musical elements into her recordings. Folk, Soul, Pop and Rock were all incorporated helping Linda to create one of the most unique sounds to ever come out of the UK, releasing seven albums during the 1970ís. Following on from her 1972 album Lark, Linda released FATHOMS DEEP. The album not only consolidated her status as one of Britain's most promising young singers but also evidenced her singularity as a recording artist. FATHOMS DEEP features ëRed Light Ladiesí, a Lewis classic that she continues to perform live today Also included are the albumís single release ëPlay Aroundí, and the funky Marvin Gaye-esque soul of ëOn The Stage,í and the whimsical ëMoles.í This release also features the non-album single ëSideway Shuffleí and itís B-side ëSafe And Soundí as well as an acoustic demo version of Red Light Ladies. Along with her solo successes, Linda Lewis also collaborated and toured with many of the worlds most successful artists such as Luther Vandross, Rod Stewart, David Bowie and Jamiroquai and most recently, Noel Gallagher.

ROKY ERICKSON
Five Symbols
MOJOCD1003

Released on 20/02/12. The HORROR-STRUCK ROCK ëNí ROLL MADNESS OF ROKY ERICKSON. The 1980 album from former 13th Floor Elevatorsí mainman hailed in MOJO magazine as a buried treasure kicks of the labelís Buried Treasure series. Featuring the original ten tracks plus two additional Erickson originals from the period. An insight into the scrambled brain of this rock geniusí bizarre and often brilliant solo career. Obsessed with sci fi and horror images, this gritty gem covers Satan, Lucifer, Alligators, Vampires, Demons and Zombies along the way. With extensive sleevenotes and an introduction by MOJO editor Phil Alexander.

For a full list of new Cherry Red release visit:
http://www.cherryred.co.uk/default.asp

THE WAVE PICTURES ANNOUNCE ALBUM, TOUR...

2012-01-23T16:19:00.002Z

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Alt-pop set The Wave Pictures have shared details of 'Long Black Cars', their fourth full-length outing on Moshi Moshi, which is set for release on 2 Apr.

The band describe the LP as an attempt to imbue ordinary observations with a new significance, with frontman Dave Tattersall saying: "The point is not that it is interesting to sing about the mundane rather than the magical, but that we find the mundane magical: the everyday amazes me".

The band will accompany the release with a UK tour, which includes a three-date residency at London's Old Blue Last.

Dates are thus:

21 Mar: Leeds, Brudenell Social Glasgow - Nice N Sleazy
23 Mar: Sunderland, Bar One
24 Mar: Manchester, The King's Arms
26 Mar: Nottingham, Chameleon
27 Mar: Milton Keynes, Sno!bar
28 Mar: Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach
29 Mar: Bristol, Fleece
30 Mar: Truro, Bunters
1 Apr: Southampton, Cellar
2 Apr: London, Old Blue Last
3 Apr: London, Old Blue Last
4 Apr: London, Old Blue Last
5 Apr: Brighton, Green Door Store
6 Apr: Cheltenham, Frog & Fiddle

http://www.thewavepictures.com/

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

Underground Railroad announce February tour...

2012-01-23T16:06:00.003Z

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'[‘White Night Stand’ is] Underground Railroad's most accessible record to date. Proof that ambition isn't a dirty word' 8/10 Jeremy Allen, NME, June 11th
'A truly impressive return' 4/5 Polly Rappaport, The Fly, June 2011
'Could obliterate a roomful of slackers with its sheer power'
9/10 Loud & Quiet, 21st May

LIVE:
Feb 14 The Oporto Leeds
Feb 16 The Registry Portsmouth
Feb 17 Lennons Southampton
Feb 18 The Green Door Store Brighton
Feb 19 Adelphi Hull
Feb 20 Stereo York
Feb 21 Mad Ferret Preston
Feb 23 Queen of Hoxton London
Feb 24 Bungalow & Bears Sheffield
Feb 25 Reading Oakford Social Club

Underground Railroad have announced fresh headline dates for February as above, also appearing as special guests of Ultrasound at The Borderline on Thursday 26th January.

In the shape of new album ‘White Night Stand’ Underground Railroad have made a career defining best – an intense, accomplished third that encapsulates a brooding Dystopian vision of modern London: Hailing from Paris, Underground Railroad’s outsider status perhaps has granted them a detached insight into the city's workings. Further inspiration across the album came from Twin Peaks and David Lynch – Marion naming 'The Black Widow', 'The Orchid's Curse', and 'Traces To Nowhere' after episodes of the show, and 'Yellow Suit' in reference to 'Blue Velvet'.

The album was produced in London by Underground Railroad and mixed Paul Walton (Massive Attack – “Mezzanine”, Bjork – “Homogenic”/ “Vespertine”).

http://whitenightstand.net/

Music industry attacks delays on piracy law...

2012-01-23T15:52:00.002Z

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The UK's "slow progress" in tackling piracy been has called "disappointing" in a music industry report.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) says delays to the Digital Economy Act mean levels of piracy are still high.

It says the UK lags behind France, where anti-piracy laws have apparently led to a 26% drop in illegal downloads.

However, 28% of all internet users still access unlicensed sites that contain copyrighted music every month.

The Digital Economy Act 2010 was rushed through parliament at the end of the Labour administration.

It has since been subject to a number of changes, but its main provision remains a letter-writing campaign targeting people identified as illegal downloaders.

The letters would offer advice on how to prevent such illegal activity, but would not make demands for money or threaten disconnection.

The act has been challenged in the courts by Internet Service Providers including TalkTalk and BT, who argue it unfairly compels them to police their users' behaviour.

Their case went to appeal last week. The judge has reserved his decision, but a ruling is expected in the next month.

Additionally, Ofcom's guidelines on how the DEA would work in practice has yet to be published and approved.

The international president of Sony Music, Edgar Berger, told the BBC the delays were "definitely disappointing", noting that "the first notices are now planned to be sent out by 2013".

Frances Moore, chief executive of the IFPI, added: "The ISPs, instead of getting on and helping us to implement the law, have challenged us in every court.

"With their help we could be turning the piracy problem around now, instead of waiting until 2013."

The government told the BBC it would "continue to work with the industry" on tackling online piracy.

"Unlawful downloading demands a strong response," said a spokesperson from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.

"If you create a song, a film, a book, you have the right to charge people for that content. We will help people enforce that right.

"The Government continues to implement measures in the Digital Economy Act aimed at tackling filesharing. All elements of the internet industry - payment companies, advertisers, search engines, ISPs and not least rights holders themselves - need to play their part in tackling unlawful activity online."

The DCMS added that, although the government had chosen - on the advice of Ofcom - not to implement sections of the DEA that would require ISPs to block websites linking to copyrighted material, a recent court case showed that rights holders could obtain similar results using the exisiting Copyright act.

'Good news'

Anti-piracy legislation in the US could also be heading for limbo, after Congress halted debate on two contested bills last week.

The decision to delay votes on the Protect IP Act (Pipa) and Stop Online Piracy Act (Sopa) followed protests by online encyclopaedia Wikipedia and thousands of other websites which went "dark" for 24 hours last week.

The IFPI said it hoped a "compromise" would be put forward "within the next few weeks".

However, Ms Moore said she thought the debate over the act "could only be good news" for the industry.

"The issue of internet piracy is now centre stage in the US Congress and being reported all over the world," she said.

"The question people are asking now is how to fight it, rather than should we be fighting it at all."

With countries including Spain, Italy and New Zealand implementing similar laws, the industry has a sense of cautious optimism.

In France, research suggests that sales on iTunes rose by as much as 23% after the government established an anti-piracy unit to monitor peer-to-peer networks.

Globally, digital music was worth $5.2bn in 2011, the IFPI said.

This represented an 8% rise in revenue, the first year-on-year growth since measurement began in 2004.

Ms Moore said there was now a "momentum" for consumers moving towards legal services, helped by the expanding presence of iTunes, Spotify and Vevo.

"The music business is going to be in great shape," added Mr Berger. "We don't have any problem with our product - consumption is as high as it has ever been. We have a problem with billing and payment."

If piracy continued to be addressed, he said, the music industry was "well-positioned to become a sustainable and profitable growth business in the very near future."

The music industry would also like to see greater co-operation from search engines, advertisers and credit card companies in blacklisting pirate websites, the IFPI said.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-16682248

M Ward - New album "A Wasteland Companion" released 9th April on Bella Union Records - Leicester Square Theatre headline show in March...

2012-01-23T14:43:00.002Z

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In the three years since Portland, OR-based troubadour M Ward released his last solo album - the universally lauded Hold Time - he’s toured the globe, released two albums as one half of Grammy-nominated duo She & Him as well as one with the talented group of friends collectively know as Monsters Of Folk.

Bella Union records will release Ward’s highly-anticipated sixth solo album, A Wasteland Companion, his first for the label, on April 9th 2012.

Inspired by his increasingly itinerant lifestyle Ward set forth to create something of a musical travelogue. He explains, “Between now and when I made Hold Time there has been a lot of travelling which requires a lot of reckoning with what to leave behind and what to carry – material and otherwise – and thinking about what I want versus what I need, creatively and otherwise. I wanted to get a reflection of that on the album. It was a process of stripping away my security blanket, which is the same four walls I always record in.”

The album, consisting of 12 stunning tracks, was made with 18 musicians and recorded in eight different studios in Portland, Omaha, New York City, Los Angeles, Austin and Bristol (UK). Ward’s honey-soaked vocals, deft finger-picking, innate sense of melody and beguiling lyrics have already cemented his reputation as one of America’s true musical treasures and A Wasteland Companion features some of the finest songwriting and most striking delivery of his career. With each and every recording Ward finds new ways to make the colours of his songwriting palate sparkle and his dexterous skills as producer, arranger, guitarist and singer seem to burst into even brighter bloom on each release.

A Wasteland Companion features the talents of M Ward (piano, guitars, voice, production), Mike Coykendall (percussion, bass), Giant Sand’s Howe Gelb (piano), John Parish (percussion, marimba), Bright Eyes’ Mike Mogis (organ), Susan Sanchez (vocals), She & Him’s Zooey Deschanel (vocals), Jordan Hudson (percussion), Adam Selzer (bass), Nathan “JR” Andersen (piano), Scott McPherson (percussion), Sonic Youth’s Steve Shelley (percussion), Dr. Dog’s Tobey Leaman (bass), Devotchka’s Tom Hagerman (strings), Oakely Hall’s Rachel Cox (vocals), Amanda Lawrence (violin), John Graboff (pedal steel) and Tyler Tornfelt (bass). The recording utilized eight engineers, including Tom Schick (Rufus Wainwright) and John Parish (PJ Harvey).

Ahead of the release of "A Wasteland Companion" M Ward will perform a headline show at the Leicester Square Theatre as well as joining Feist as special guest on her European tour… Upcoming UK live dates below:

Tuesday 20 March – LONDON – Leicester Square Theatre (£16)

Sunday 25 March – LONDON – Royal Albert Hall (with Feist)
Monday 26 March – MANCHESTER – Apollo (with Feist)
Tuesday 27 March – GLASGOW – Royal Concert Hall (with Feist)

JIM O'ROURKE: new old recordings...

2012-01-23T13:47:00.002Z

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JIM O'ROURKE
OLD NEWS #7
2LP Editions Mego OLD NEWS #7
Release date: February 21
http://editionsmego.com

Side One & Two recorded 96-97 Steamroom, Chicago
Side Three recorded live in Nagoya at Tokuzo April,2011. Thanks to Carlos Giffoni
Side Four recorded 93-94. Originally released on These Records. Thanks to Andrew & Howard Jacques

More archival works from Jim O'Rourke seeing the light of day. 'Welcome To The Django' is 2 sided mid 90s excursion of O'Roukes Þrst exeperiments with a Serrge modular system. 'Natural Born Killers' is a recent live jam recorded in Nagoya. 'Tacere Fas' is legendary early 90s piece Þnally available again. Orginally appearing on the compilation. 'Unentitled' (THESE 011CD), released by These Records in 1994.

PHENOMENAL HANDCLAP BAND ANNOUNCE TOUR...

2012-01-23T13:29:00.002Z

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Psych-disco-soul collective Phenomenal Handclap Band will promote the release of their second album 'Form And Control' with a just announced tour of five UK venues.

With the LP set to surface via Tummy Touch on 13 Feb, the dates look as follows:

24 Feb: London, Village Underground
28 Feb: Liverpool, Kazimier
1 Mar: Chelmsford, Hooga
2 Mar: Manchester, Night & Day
3 Mar: Birmingham, Hare & Hound

Source: http://www.unlimitedmedia.co.uk/

David’s Lyre New Album – Picture Of Our Youth, Self Released on 20th February 2012...

2012-01-23T11:47:00.002Z

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David’s Lyre
New Album – Picture Of Our Youth
Self Released on 20th February 2012

‘The world of baroque pop has a new man of mystery... he has made a wonderful EP’ - The Guardian
‘David's Lyre clearly has plenty of potential to become a pop force’ - BBC Music
‘Beautiful, soulful, and instantly captivating’ - The Fly
‘A beautiful piece of acoustic folk-pop’ - NME
‘Sensational skewed indie’ – Sunday Times Culture

Tracklisting: 1. English Roses, 2. This Time Hidden Ground, 3. Heartbeat, 4. The Fall, 5. These Trees, 6. Piano Song, 7. Picture Of, 8. Only Words, 9. This Time

David's Lyre have announced the release of their debut album 'Picture Of Our Youth' on a pay-what you-want basis exclusively from Bandcamp. The album will be available from February 20th and will be the only offering from singer/writer/producer Paul Dixon's latest project. Working with the critically acclaimed 'In Arms' EP producer, Luke Smith (Foals, Slow Club), as well as calling upon the up and coming Tom Fuller (Patrick Wolf), Dixon co-produced throughout. Mixed by Gareth Jones (Grizzly Bear, These New Puritans), 'Picture Of Our Youth' was recorded over a 12 month period in London.

In a statement to fans posted on Friday, Paul wrote: "David's Lyre began a little over 2 years ago. I signed a record deal with a Major label 6 months after starting the project, and this relationship ended just before Christmas 2011. When we first signed we had hoped that the album would be out Summer 2011 but for various reasons, as you know, this didn't happen.”

Dixon goes on to explain: “The hardest part of this process has been creating music I felt excited about, and proud of, but not being able to share it with you. I remain hugely grateful for the opportunities and patronage given to me, but it is evident that the natural tension in the relationship between art and business within the music industry, is currently at its most strained. I join an ever-expanding group of artists who are opting out of this model in order to bring you, the fans, our best."

Speaking of future projects, Paul writes "I leave you with 'Picture Of Our Youth' and hope that you choose to journey with me into my new projects and beyond."

'Picture Of Our Youth' is not a typical debut, it is an impressive and ambitious record that combines classic songwriting with striking instrumentation, most of which is performed by Dixon himself. From the movement inducing 'This Time', to the reflective 'The Fall', and the hard hitting 'Only Words' to the soaring 'This I Know', the album shows maturity beyond Dixon's 22 years, without betraying his youth. Skilled craftwork and great care, both musically and lyrically, is unquestionably evident throughout this album showing Dixon to be at the forefront of his class as a songwriter and producer. After such an impressive beginning, Dixon's subsequent projects will be subject to great expectation and anticipation.

Paul will be joining Spector on their UK tour as planned and will play a stripped-down solo performance without his band.

February
14th Newcastle Cluny
15th Glasgow King Tut’s
16th Leeds Cockpit
17th York Duchess
18th Manchester Deaf Institute
21st Oxford Jericho Tavern
22nd Liverpool Masque Theatre
23rd Birmingham Rainbow
24th Bristol Louisiana
25th Brighton Green Door Store
March
1st London 100 Club

http://www.davidslyre.co.uk/

ISLET: Debut album 'Illuminated People' released today on Shape Records (Turnstile)...

2012-01-23T08:50:00.002Z

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Video for 'A Bear On His Own' now available - http://www.youtube.com/v/7Fi76ldbBSY

"Illuminated People overflows with ideas and adventurism" Q
"they're a model of how a left leaning rock band ought to conduct themselves in 2012" NME
"’Iluminated People' is a shining triumph" Clash
"beautifully beguiling" The Fly

Islet release their debut album today via Shape Records (Turnstile). Illuminated People follows 2010’s rapturously received pair of EPs – ‘Celebrate This Place’ and ‘Wimmy’ – which the NME described as being “a sonic boom in the face to anyone who might have thought they had something to hide”. A group who work under a strict autonomy, this is – as a result – their most cohesive sounding work to date.

It’s an album forged out of the Cardiff-based collective’s strong ties to a DIY sense of thinking and more outré passions in the arts. The subsequent ten tracks stand as a bold opening statement from a band that have quickly proven themselves masters of finding the common thread between at-first seemingly disparate influences.

That they’ve had the confidence to do this lies on an early decision to take control of their entire aesthetic – releasing on Shape Records, an entirely independent label run by the group's Mark Thomas. Islet have always sought to maintain direct contact with people in a less oppressive manner than the constant internet bombardment others pursue. Self-made zines, with artwork and layout all done in house provide the group’s main mouthpiece, a device that harks back to the 80s golden age of DIY. But one which has become relevant again as music lovers seek to find more personalised and unique ways to connect with their favourite acts. Crucially, the zines are available only on request, the thought being that if you like their music enough you will come to them.

This doesn’t mean the group are closed to outside influences. Illuminated People marks a first in that they’ve allowed someone other than themselves to take the reins on recording, with producer Drew Morgan stepping in to bring together what amounts to a montage of sprawling, searching sound.

On this record the group’s third-eye opening mix of Gang Gang Dance-leaning rhythms and Kraut-reaching instrumental breakdowns can breathe, something that’s illustrated perfectly in the hugely ambitious nine minute opener ‘Libra Man’. There’s the still a clear sense of free abandon, of group members swapping instruments and songs forming from the nucleus of jams, half-ideas and fleeting thoughts re-visited and built on to take on entirely new meaning and structure. ‘Entwined Pines,’ for instance starts out with ghostly choirs and wisp-on-the-wind vocals, skipping through noise rock and ending up ferocious post-punk though – and this is the key part – without feeling overly forced or tacked on.

Live they already have a burgeoning reputation. Spending the summer of 2011 playing festivals including Primavera, Leeds & Reading and Bestival, they beguiled onlookers with ritualistic chants, sometimes delivered away from the song being played on stage; at other times they were seen meandering off into the crowd. In person as in music, they seek to break down walls.

Islet’s vision appears to be that of limitless possibilities, not in the sense of the po-faced pedal hoarder, but in the simple joy of exploration. That’s what Illuminated People is; an album that drips with pride and the refusal to stand still, and ultimately one that fizzes with a sense of sheer enjoyment that came through making it. Islet are a group of people completely in charge of their own destiny, through their music you can tell that’s an extremely liberating thought.

http://www.isletislet.com/
http://www.isletislet.com/

Rushdie: India authorities gave 'false intelligence'...

2012-01-23T08:44:00.002Z

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Author Salman Rushdie has accused authorities in the Indian state of Rajasthan of giving "false intelligence information" of a threat to his life.

Mr Rushdie withdrew from the Jaipur literature festival on Friday, saying that he been told by sources that paid assassins were planning to kill him.

But he later said he believed he had been lied to about the threat.

The Rajasthan government has denied the charge, saying it was "baseless".

Salman Rushdie sparked anger in the Muslim world with his book The Satanic Verses, which many see as blasphemous.

He lived in hiding for many years after Iran's Ayatollah Khomeini issued a fatwa calling for his execution.

'Outraged'

The author had been scheduled to speak in Jaipur on Friday, on the opening day of the five-day event.

But Mr Rushdie pulled out of the festival, saying that he had been informed "by intelligence sources in Maharashtra and Rajasthan that paid assassins from the Mumbai underworld may be on their way to Jaipur to 'eliminate' me".

Influential Muslim clerics had protested against his participation in the run-up to the festival.

On Sunday, Mr Rushdie tweeted that he had investigated the information and believed "that I was indeed lied to".

"I am outraged and very angry," he said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot told a newspaper that Mr Rushdie's allegation was "baseless".

"A confirmed information about a threat to Mr Rushdie's life was shared by the Intelligence Bureau with the organisers of the festival. Such inputs had started to come even before the beginning of the event," Mr Gehlot's government said in a statement.

However, the chief of the Maharashtra police has denied that his force had sent any intelligence related to threats to Mr Rushdie's life to counterparts in Rajasthan.

"When we had no information that gangsters or paid assassins from the Mumbai underworld had planned to eliminate Salman Rushdie, how could we have shared it with anybody?" K Subramaniam, director-general of Maharashtra police, said.

One newspaper reported that the festival organisers had been shown "an intelligence file about the threat to Mr Rushdie" a day before the festival opened, and they had informed the author accordingly.

Book readings

Mr Rushdie's latest remarks come amid a rising controversy over warnings of penal action against some authors who read passages from The Satanic Verses - which is banned in India - at the festival on Friday.

Writers Hari Kunzru, Amitava Kumar, Jeet Thayil and Ruchir Joshi read extracts from the book to protest against Mr Rushdie's withdrawal, leading the festival organisers to distance themselves from the readings.

The four writers left Jaipur over the weekend to avoid arrest, media reports say.

Festival organiser and author William Dalrymple said that a lot of people "don't realise that even reading from a banned book is against the law".

Separately, a number of authors attending the festival have petitioned the government to reconsider the ban on The Satanic Verses.

The book was banned in India in 1988 for its "blasphemous content hurting the sentiments of Muslims".

Salman Rushdie was born in India but is a British citizen and has lived in the UK for most of his life. In recent years he has made many private visits to India and attended the Jaipur Literary Festival in 2007.

Correspondents say the protests against Mr Rushdie's participation at the festival this year were linked to crucial state elections due in Uttar Pradesh.

They say no political party wants to antagonise the Muslim community, which constitutes 18% of voters in the state, India's largest.

On 10 January, leading Islamic seminary Darul Uloom Deoband - which is based in Uttar Pradesh - called on the government to block Salman Rushdie's visit as he "had annoyed the religious sentiments of Muslims in the past".

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-16675759

The Archers: 22/1/2012

2012-01-23T07:22:00.001Z

Synopsis:

There's no stopping Tracy. Meanwhile the work mounts up for Tony.

Pat seems a bit pre-occupied to Helen. Pat assures her she’s fine about doing the speech at the launch – she’s thinking about the HEFF inspection on Thursday. They’ve picked a week when Tony’s got to do all the milking.

Tom appreciates Tony’s help with moving the pig arks, especially as Tony’s clearly not happy that Tom’s going to Shrewsbury for three days. Tom offers to do all he can before he goes and as soon as he’s back. Tony accepts his offer, but it’s short-lived. Kenton’s expecting a good start to Farmhouse Breakfast week tomorrow, and needs more sausages and bacon. Tom will have to go round today, which means he won’t be able to do afternoon milking.

Neil and Susan find Tracy clearing out the house and filling Neil’s skip. Tracy insists the stuff has got to be cleared out if they want her to move in.

Susan can’t let go of her old dolls’ house. It’s a family heirloom, so she intends to do it up and pass it on to Kiera. Neil thinks it could be quite a job but Susan points out that if he and Tracy can renovate 6 The Green, she’s sure she can decorate a dolls’ house.

Listen: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b019rgt9

Episode written by Mary Cutler

Pinewood Studios 'committed to UK' despite expansion refusal...

2012-01-22T18:34:00.003Z

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Pinewood Studios has pledged its commitment to the British film industry despite the rejection of its £200m expansion plan.

Pinewood had hoped to get permission to build a 100-acre set on land in Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire, next to the studios' current site.

But the government upheld a council rejection, saying the project would be "inappropriate in the green belt".

Spokesman Andrew Smith said Pinewood was "totally committed" to the UK.

The studios, which have been operating for more than 70 years, have been the location for Bond films including The Spy Who Loved Me, A View To A Kill and, more recently, Quantum Of Solace.

'We are disappointed'

The site has also been used for blockbusters Mamma Mia! and Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time.

Mr Smith, Pinewood Studio's group director, corporate affairs, said although the film company had four studios overseas it was committed to movie-making in Britain.

"We are disappointed (about the rejection of the plans) which we have been working on since 2007, but the UK film industry is at the centre of our plans. We will continue to invest," he said.

Mr Smith said as well as hiring out studio facilities to film-makers Pinewood is also starting to make its own movies.

He said the firm would now review the decision and then decide on any future expansion plans.

On Friday, the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) said its decision to refuse outline planning permission was because "the proposal would amount to urban sprawl of the type the green belt is seeking to contain".

The plans included building replicas of city centres including Paris, Venice and New York.

The department said the plans would compromise the purpose of the green belt to prevent the merger of neighbouring towns and encroachment into the countryside.

Pinewood took an appeal to the DCLG last year following a decision by South Buckinghamshire District Council to reject the plans in 2009.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-16661460

THE JIM JONES REVUE TO HEADLINE STRUMMERCAMP...

2012-01-22T18:16:00.003Z

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Los Amigos are very excited to announce that The Jim Jones Revue will be headlining the Saturday night at this years Strummercamp Festival.They are a phenominal live band that promise to impress all.

The Jim Jones Revue are described as sounding like a car crash between Little Richard and The MC5. They play supercharged rock’n’roll inspired by The Killer, The Georgia Peach and of course The Memphis Flash and the deranged sons of Detroit.

http://www.jimjonesrevue.com/website/home

The early bird ticket offer is still open, but only until the 7th Feb. So be quick to get your weekend ticket for just £50 before it goes up to £65.
Head here for tickets: http://www.strummercampfestival.co.uk/

More Bands Announced...
Strummercamp are also please to announce that the following bands will also been joining Jim Jones Revue at this years festival, across the 5 stages:
NEW MODEL ARMY, JIM JONES REVUE, DUB PISTOLS, ROTTEN HILL GANG, GOLDBLADE, NECK, THE LOVELY EGGS, V THIRTEEN, ELECTRIC RIVER, STRONGBOW STAND OUT RIOT, BEAT THE RED LIGHT, CHINA SHOP BULL, REVENGE OF THE PSYCHOTRONIC MAN, HATED TIL PROVEN, ACID DROP, FAINTEST IDEA, ONLY STRANGERS, BOOTSCRAPER, RISING STRIKE, RUN OUT THE GUNS,SMOKEY BASTARD, THE KIRKZ, MELODICAS NEW READ, LOUISE DISTRAS, BRANSTOWN BAND, DUCKING PUNCHES, EMMA HALLOWS, BARNEY, HAPPY MARTYR, BILLY LIAR, 12 ANGRY MEN, TROY FAID, SEAS OF MIRTH, MATT BENTLEY, TIM HOLEHOUSE, ROB GALLOWAY, DARREN POYZER, ZOO CASE THEATRE + many more to come…

More bands will be announced soon along with details of the day split. With well over 60 bands playing next year Strummercamp promises to be one of the best value for money festivals about. Keep check the site, facebook and twitter for all the latest news.

“A festival winner” 5/5 Big Cheese
“The friendliest festival around” E-festivals

Joss Stone: 'Murder plot' trial in doubt...

2012-01-22T15:38:00.003Z

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Two men accused of plotting to rob and kill soul singer Joss Stone are being assessed for their fitness to stand trial.

Kevin Liverpool, 34, and Junior Bradshaw, 31, both from Manchester, are alleged to have targeted the 24-year-old singer at her Devon home last year.

Exeter Crown Court heard both men have mental health issues.

Mr Liverpool has pleaded not guilty and Mr Bradshaw has yet to plead. The trial is due to start in August.

Both men are charged with conspiracy to murder, conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm and conspiracy to commit robbery.

'Not satisfied'

The court was told Mr Bradshaw was suffering from schizophrenia while further psychiatric tests were being sought to determine Mr Liverpool's fitness to stand trial.

Prosecutor Simon Morgan told Judge Graham Cottle it may be up to a judge to rule on whether the men, both of St Stephen's Close, Manchester, stand trial.

The men were arrested on 13 June last year near Miss Stone's home in Cullompton.

They had been seen acting suspiciously in a Fiat Punto near the village of Langford, several miles from the singer's home.

Martin Meeke QC, representing Mr Bradshaw, said: "I am not at all satisfied as to his mental capacity."

Judge Cottle adjourned proceedings until 16 April.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-16658478

The Musician, Leicester: February highlights (Part 3)...

2012-01-22T13:35:00.003Z

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THE MUSICIAN VENUE & BAR
Clyde Street
Leicester
LE1 2DE
Tel: 0116 251 0080
http://www.themusicianpub.co.uk/
E-mail: rideout at stayfree.co.uk

Further Highlights in February:

Wed 1
Fingersnap: David McAlmont & Guy Davies
£10adv £12door
plus John Reilly & Lewis Nitikman

http://www.finger-snap.com/

Fingersnap is the creative coupling of artist David McAlmont and musical tour de force Guy Davies. Fingersnap‟s first release comes in the form of the Smokehouse EP that was written whilst on a writing retreat in Ireland earlier this year and recorded in London over the summer.

Guy and David originally met back in 1997, when they were introduced by producer Steve Leroni. Their friendship blossomed with untold live and studio collaborations, including work on the album 'A Little Communication' and 'Set One: You Go To My Head'. David's musical journey of course has been an eclectic and varied one, seeing him achieve mainstream success and critical acclaim with a number of musical partners including Bernard Butler, David Arnold and composer Michael Nyman.

"McAlmont's voice, brimming with pain and aching with desperate persuasion in every one of its many octaves, is one of music's most unique." - The Guardian

Thu 2
ahab
£7adv £9door
plus support

http://ahabofficial.com/

ahab are a singer songwriter collective formed in 2009 after being invited to play the annual 'Fanfare' Festival in Nashville, Tennessee.

Following a successful week long residency tearing the roof off at Tootsies Orchid Lounge, they came back to Dalston and decided to make the collaboration permanent. After a year spent writing new material and layering the songs thick with harmonies ahab decided to hit the streets of London's market towns to put their name around.

Two months of busking and the band had built up such a cult following that they have now been banned from practically every market in London as crowds had began to block the streets wherever they played.

“ahab is the real deal – top-notch UK Americana featuring tight four-piece harmonies.” - Simon Mayo, BBC Radio 2
“I loved ahab’s terrific performance at Cropredy festival. They are blistering live – alt-country edge and sheer class.” - Bob Harris, BBC Radio 2

Thu 9
Patsy Matheson & Becky Mills
£7adv £9door

http://www.patsymatheson.co.uk/

Since the well publicised break up of Waking the Witch, Patsy Matheson and Becky Mills have continued to delight audiences throughout the UK – Patsy as half of a duo with the legendary Clive Gregson, and Becky singing alongside Ken Nicol (Steeleye Span) and Ashley Hutchings (Fairport Convention).

Now, to support the release of Patsy’s new album ‘Stories of Angels & Guitars,' these two world class songwriters, singers and guitarists have joined forces resulting in a unique and personal sound, drawing on roots in traditional and contemporary folk, acoustic blues, R & B, jazz and rock, with an emphasis on intricate vocal harmonies. Combine this with the pair’s engaging charm and sense of humour, and this promises to be a very special evening of top quality entertainment.

‘Expert musicianship and compelling interchanging lead vocals’ – Maverick Magazine

Fri 10
Snakewater
£5

http://www.snakewater.co.uk/

Snakewater are a Hard Rockin’ Blues three piece based in and around Manchester in the North-West and what you get is a classic valve driven back line with all elements of Rock 'N' Roll. Influences range from Gary Moore, Eric Clapton, Joe Bonamassa, Rory Gallagher and Peter Green to Led Zeppelin, Cream, ACDC and Free. Basically, that Old School of British Rock persuasion of the blues! Their debut album ‘Dirty Rock’n’Rolla’ came out in May 2010. A brilliant contrast of songs across the album, which will definitely make an impression on the current New Blues Boom.

For more info visit http://www.xanderpromotions.co.uk/

Thu 16
Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman
£9
plus James Findlay

http://www.kathrynrobertsandseanlakeman.co.uk/

Twin daughters and a folk-rock whirlwind forced Kathryn Roberts (Vocals/Piano/Woodwind), and Sean Lakeman (Guitar), to sideline their popular duo performances in the mid-noughties. Now the timing is right for a return to form from the Dartmoor based couple.

Two of the British folk scenes most accomplished performers, Kathryn and Sean have graced stages the world over in a number of guises, however, the intimacy and strength of passion shown as a duo, combined with an eclectic repertoire ensures a rare treat.

With a story that includes music making with the likes of Seth Lakeman, Cara Dillon, The Levellers, Kate Rusby and Show of Hands, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have established themselves as pillars of modern British folk.

For more info visit http://www.greenbirdpromotions.com/

Sat 18
The Hamsters: 25th Year & Farewell Tour!
£12adv £14door

http://www.thehamsters.co.uk/

Retiring after 25 years together and here for one final show at the Musician, the guitar, bass and drums trio The Hamsters have long been established as one of our premier live attractions. Although primarily playing their own brand of Rock, Blues and Americana, they're also widely regarded as the UK's leading interpreters of the music of Jimi Hendrix and ZZ TOP - and will no doubt be featuring some tonight.

"The Hamsters are fabulous: one of Britain's very best live bands" - Bob Harris, Radio 2
"The Hamsters are a great Blues band" - Johnny Walker, Radio 2
"Nobody does the music of Jimi Hendrix and ZZ Top better (apart from the real ZZ Top)" - The Times
"F****** brilliant!" - Suzi Quatro

Thu 23
Talon - The Acoustic Collection
£10adv £12door

http://www.talonmusic.co.uk/

Come and experience Talon as you’ve never seen them before. Four members of the world’s greatest Eagles tribute band perform a selection of their favourite contemporary acoustic classics by James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, Crosby Stills & Nash, John Denver, Michael Jackson, and many more…

Fri 24
Flutatious & Tarantism
£10adv £12door

http://www.flutatious.co.uk/
Flutatious feature soaring melodic flute accompanied by flying fiddle, atmospheric guitars, jazzy vibes and groovy beats. With their unique sound, Flutatious have been gaining interest from various parts of the ‘industry’ but still enjoy the freedom of being truly independent. It has been said that ‘Flutatious are one of the bands dragging folk/rock into the 21st century…’

http://www.tarantism.co.uk/
With Tarantism, it’s all about dancing and always has been, from tribal drums, mediaeval pipes or a frenzy of voices. To sweaty pub back-rooms, banging nightclubs, free festivals and parties or anywhere there is a beat! Tarantism bring all of these influences into their songwriting & performance, weaving traditional instruments & styles with ska, punk, funk & dub. Along with contemporary lyrical content and imaginative arrangements, this produces a unique mix of infectious dance rhythms and memorable tunes, real music that is fun & uplifting!

For more info visit http://www.fortytenthpromotions.co.uk/