tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95096482012-02-14T09:02:15.318-08:00the original music fanzine produced by JGRAM 1997 to 2001JGRAMnoreply@blogger.comBlogger491100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-42286504062701371622006-01-23T05:56:00.000-08:002010-04-13T06:02:29.748-07:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VzUSulyxBZI/S8RqGOVyZCI/AAAAAAAABnY/DQ9VmveB30Y/s1600/steve+albini.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459605303441122338" style="WIDTH: 323px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_VzUSulyxBZI/S8RqGOVyZCI/AAAAAAAABnY/DQ9VmveB30Y/s400/steve+albini.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Shellac are my favourite band. And I liked them first. Hailing from Chicago, their roots are legendary and their sound is pretty unique. I liked Shellac of North America before/quicker than I liked my best friends. Formed on an informal basis in 1993, Shellac are so good, the tightest band I have ever seen and the most pokerfaced and comically intense outfit going. Its no surprise really as their pedigree is faultless. The lineup of Steve Albini (velocity), Bob Weston (mass) and Todd Trainor (time) is a genuine unit, not just the latest tool/vehicle/version of Mr Big Black/Rapeman’s backing band. Weston’s past can be traced back to Volcano Suns and Brick Layer Cake whereas homeboy Todd Trainor is previously a Rifle Sport and Breaking Circus number (if nothing, these three know how to name bands). Albini’s trademarks are awkward time changes, thundering baselines, screaming guitar and frantic vocals. Oft copies/imitated but never near matched, Freewheelin’ Bob Weston graciously took the time to get it in the butt with my Qs:<br /><br />NP - Hi how are you? What are you currently up to?</div><div>Bob - Puttering around the house.</div><div>NP - What do you make of the music climate (dare I say industry) circa 2002?</div><div>Bob- I don't know. I'm not really involved with the music industry. I buy records that I like and listen to them. I play music that I like in a band. I go see bands that I like play at bars.</div><div>NP - Ignoring that the industry is swallowing it to become another sales tool, do you think Napster provides (provided) a good service? What do you think of the MP3 format?</div><div>Bob- Napster/music on the interlink is good for one thing: listening booth. But then when you hear something you like, you go and buy the real thing at the store. The audio quality of an MP3 is terrible. Up until the minidisc and the mp3, the history of music delivery was a history where the quality of each new format was better sounding than the one before. Now, two of the newest formats actually sound worse than the previous format (CD). Why would anyone stand for that?</div><div>NP - How are plans/preparations going for All Tomorrows Parties 2002?</div><div>Bob - We each have 50-100 bands we want to invite. We've tried to narrow it to the 30, but it's difficult. Now, we're making phone calls and inviting the 30.</div><div>NP - Did you attend All Tomorrows Parties 2001? Any good?</div><div>Bob- I went. I had a great time. Standout sets by The Ex, Television and Yo La Tengo.</div><div>NP - What is/was it like playing at the Knitting Factory in New York?</div><div>Bob- Fine.</div><div>NP - How much would you say a sense of humour effects the enjoyment of Shellac's music?</div><div>Bob- We write and play with a sense of humor or absurdity. Hopefully, some listeners will pick up on that and enjoy the music in the spirit it was written. Lots of folks seem to think that we're angry and mean people.</div><div>NP - What is the band's biggest flaw?</div><div>Bob- Steve and Bob not having as good a fashion sense as Todd.</div><div>NP - At The Drive In. What are they about?</div><div>Bob- Never heard them.</div><div>NP - What are your current listening/reading/viewing tastes that you are enjoying?</div><div>Bob- West Wing, "The Man With the Golden Arm" - Nelson Algren, "The Spectrum Between" - David Grubbs, "Complete Monkees Headquarters Sessions boxed set" - The Monkees, </div><div>NP - I've heard that you recorded "The Futurist" album for a Montreal dance troupe called Lalala Human Steps. Who are they?</div><div>Bob- They're a modern dance troupe from Montreal.</div><div>NP - Wouldn't it feel great just to kick "nu metal"'s sorry arse?</div><div>Bob - We do every day.</div><div>NP - The movie Sex And The Single Girl. All the girls in it want to meet Bob Weston. What's that about?</div><div>Bob- I've been meaning to see that. My friend, Sue Miller, keeps telling me to rent it.</div><div>NP - What's the fascination of/with igniting stuff?</div><div>Bob- Fire good.</div><div>NP - What is the most embarrassing thing you have done whilst drunk?</div><div>Bob- Make an ass of myself at a dinner party.</div><div>NP – What do you think of WWF wrestling?<br />Bob – I have no thoughts about it one way or another.<br />NP – You old cynic you. No opinion on the subversive/homoerotic theory?<br />Bob – Cynic? No. I simply don’t spend any time thinking about pro wrestling one way or another.<br />NP – Any plans for Christmas?<br />Bob – New Orleans to see the wife’s parents.<br />NP - Tell me a joke.</div><div>Bob- What's the difference between an onion and a hippie? Nobody cries when you slice a hippie.</div><div>NP – Why did the monkey fall out of the tree?<br />Bob – Why?<br />NP – Because it was dead. Bob, how's the cat?</div><div>Bob- Which one?</div><div>NP - Anything else?</div><div>Bob- Hang up and drive. Red light means stop - yellow means stop if you can safely.</div><div></div><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.touchandgorecords.com/bands/band.php?id=22">Shellac</a><br /><a href="http://www.diskant.net/nopics/yellow/f150599.htm">Shellac live</a></div><div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-4228650406270137162?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-85571827465133421242005-12-22T00:57:00.000-08:002010-06-09T01:06:55.827-07:00Seeing Solex live was seeing something new to me.<br /><br /><br />Hi, how are you and what are you doing right now?<br />[de C&amp;D] I'm o.k.. Have a few days off now,...enjoying a very late<br />breakfast.<br /><br />How did you enjoy playing in England (Matador show and Brighton Crawl)?<br />[de C&amp;D] I had a great time. My bandmembers too by the way. The 10th<br />anniversary Matador party in London was very well-organized and every night<br />they had a very good set of bands on the bill.<br />The Brighton crawl is a very charming festival. Organized by a small, but<br />very enthousiastic group of people. Brighton itself is very nice.<br /><br />Live Solex is a three piece. How different is playing live to recording?<br />[de C&amp;D] VERY. For me recording takes place the same moment as the making<br />of the song. Quite the opposite of a normal recording session of a<br />conventional band where the recording is a matter of copying something<br />that's already there. When I finish a song I ask my musicians to join me in<br />a rehearsalroom and than we try to find the best form to play the song<br />live.<br /><br />How does the second album differ from the first?<br />[de C&amp;D] The source of the samples is different. For the first album I<br />took samples from very cheap unsellable cd's from the 2nd hand recordshop I<br />co-own in Amsterdam. The challenge was to find good little fragments on<br />awfull cd's. When I made these songs I never had an idea of actually<br />releasing them, ....that is untill I got signed by Matador. So the first<br />album is more or less my demo tape. It's a low-budget album. So in order to<br />try and avoid paying any clearancies for the samples, I asked some<br />musicians to play the sample for me so I could resample and rerecord them.<br />The second album is quite low-budget too. But I tried to come up with a<br />different way to avoid paying clearancies. During the first few months of<br />'99 I went to a lot of concerts (from pop too classical too jazz too metal)<br />in and around Amsterdam and secretly made bootlegs. Because there are no<br />copyrights on bootlegs you can sample from them without having to pay<br />clearancies. Ofcourse it's still ilegal to make bootlegs but it's always<br />better getting caught making a bootleg instead of getting caught for an<br />uncleared sample.<br />Apart from this I also used a 16-track digital recorder instead of my<br />analog 8-track. So I could experiment a lot more with songstructures 'cause<br />of edit-possibillities.<br />I also asked a clarinetplayer, a guitarist and a drummer to jam along with<br />a drumloop and only one or two samples. They needed the loop for speed and<br />rythm ofcourse, and the sample for key. I recorded their jams and edited<br />them afterwards,..tried to integrate them in a song.<br /><br />Why did you include the word Solex in every song title on the first album?<br />[de C&amp;D] It's a rip off from comicstrip book titles. They also always have<br />the maincharacter in the title.<br />So Solex is the maincharacter of every song on the Hitmeister,...but it's<br />not nessesarily me. If it would be me I might as well use my own name<br />instead of the word Solex, and present myself as a<br />singer-songwriter,....which I'm not. Or not like the standard:<br />guitar-on-lap-singer-songwriter-girl.<br /><br />Who is your favourite comicbook character?<br />[de C&amp;D] Heinz (probably not known outside of Holland),....it's a cat.<br /><br />Is Solex your alter ego or just your band?<br />[de C&amp;D] My alter ego.<br /><br />How many of your songs about sex?<br />[de C&amp;D] Depends on your imagination....<br /><br />Who are you influenced by?<br />[de C&amp;D] Dance musicians.<br /><br />But what does "[de C&amp;D]"?<br />[de C&amp;D] 'De C&amp;D' is the second hand recordshop of which I'm the co-owner.<br /><br />What is it like owning your own record shop?<br />[de C&amp;D] I need independence,...and that's exactly what it gives.<br /><br />Is the story about Randy Costanza being a distant cousin of George from<br />Seinfeld true?<br />[de C&amp;D] No.<br /><br />George from Seinfeld always has dates. What do you think his secret is?<br />[de C&amp;D] He probably smells really really nice.<br /><br />Who are the Letdowns?<br />[de C&amp;D] It's a nice band from Pittsburg in which Randy Costanza is the<br />amazing drummer.<br /><br />I have heard that you do not use a sequencer. If so, why not?<br />[de C&amp;D] Using a sequencer is more like programming music instead of<br />making music.<br /><br />What is your favourite sample?<br />[de C&amp;D] The little guitarpiece in Randy Costanza.<br /><br />Is the guitarpiece on Randy Costanza by Jon Spencer?<br />[de C&amp;D] No way,....and even if it was,....I would never tell anyone.<br /><br />did you get signed to Matador Records?<br />[de C&amp;D] I had send them a demotape with 4 songs on it. Along with it I'd<br />written a note saying; "If you want to hear more, give me a call" And so<br />they did....<br /><br />What records have you released so far, Solex or otherwise?<br />[de C&amp;D] I released one mini-cd and an E.P. with my former band 'Sonetic<br />Vet'. It was a Benelux release only and completely flopped. Not to our<br />surprise by the way,...I mean who wants to hear Hectic noisy guitar<br />music....???<br /><br />Solex: Solex vs. the Hitmeister (CD, LP)<br />Solex all licketysplitt (single)<br />Pick Up (CD, LP)<br />Randy Costanza (single)<br /><br />How do you relax?<br />[de C&amp;D] Watching television,...or going to the movies and drink a lot.<br /><br />What's your favourite movie?<br />[de C&amp;D] Rosemary's baby.<br /><br />What has been the highlight of your career to date?<br />[de C&amp;D] The Peelsessions<br /><br />Do you have any pets?<br />[de C&amp;D] Two cats,...one is called Koekie and the other one is called<br />Solex,...and she is longer around than the Solex YOU know. Koekie is smart<br />and fat,....Solex is thin and stupid.<br /><br />What makes you laugh?<br />[de C&amp;D] Everything,....it's all a joke.<br /><br />Anything else?<br />[de C&amp;D] Apart from everything ????<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-8557182746513342124?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-76491509501304618402005-11-21T00:58:00.000-08:002010-06-09T01:06:30.964-07:00It was truly an honour to witness Khan playing live at the Everything Is Nice Matador anniversary weekend. It added a bit of spice to the air. The output is electronica with a swing, very loungey and reminiscent to the music that Laura Palmer and Audrey Horn would be into, dancing to in a drug addled frenzy during another crazed episode of Twin Peaks. It’s no surprise that Julee Cruise (Who sang the Twin Peaks theme) has worked with him and appeared on his “1-900 Get Khan” album on Matador.<br /><br />It was also quite fun when we saw him to see him play whilst simultaneously being molestered by nurses wearing bondage masks wielding whips and strap ons. What a focused performer. My new hero. Here goes:<br /><br />NP: Who are you?<br />Khan: Khan son of Chaka<br /><br />NP: When did Khan form?<br />Khan: Khan is a one man band (myself) with special guests on stage that released the first record under that name 1994 on the Brooklyn based electronic label Direct Drive. My real name is Can but I couldn't use it because of the German kraut rock band Can. I became friends with Can bassist Holger Czukay later and complained.<br /><br />NP: Who are your influences?<br />Khan: James Brown, Sly Stone, Cerone, Psychic TV (and Throbbing Gristle), Lydia Lunch, Robert Hood, John Carpenter, Freddy Fender a.m.m.<br /><br />NP: Where are you from?<br />Khan: I'm half Turkish half Finish, born in Germany and living in New York moving to Mexico.<br /><br />NP: I saw you guys play in London last month at the Matador gig thing there. Who were those women with you onstage, then on the dancefloor and then back onstage again. They were cool<br />Khan: The girls are called Chinchin. If you want some pictures I can e-mail you but you have to let me.<br /><br />NP: Who are/is Chinchin?<br />Khan: ChinChin is a London based performance group that deals with fetish in all forms. They are friends of a friend and wanted to perform on my Underwear Tour 99 so they did. Some people in the audience complained that I was exploiting the female body but they were free to do what ever they liked on stage and I had no influence on their performance. I think they are awesome !!! They are my guests on stage any time. Anybody else into stage sharing ??<br /><br />NP: Have you had relations with them?<br />Khan: I met them the day of the show for the first time myself but we had more "body contact" back stage. I think their boyfriends are hot !!<br /><br />NP: What did you think of Solex at the gig?<br />Khan: Liked it alot !<br /><br />NP: What was Australia like?<br />Khan: Bizarre, BIG and fun. I heard the electronic music scene is really big but pretty cheesy at the moment. I love the people there and the audience. Very sexy.<br /><br />NP: What's the story behind the cover of the record?<br />Khan: I identify more with hustlers than with DJs so I got a bunch of them to advertise on my cover. Also the title "1-900 GET KHAN" is a real telephone sex line in the states that I was running. Just making some extra cash with stuff I enjoy and having fun. It was meant as a statement against American prudity.<br /><br />NP: How did you enjoy playing in England?<br />Khan: Loved it !<br /><br />NP: What was the difference between the New York and London Matador shows?<br />Khan: I always try to be in the wrong place at the wrong time so both shows were great and I/we had a great time and got pretty smashed backstage.<br /><br />NP: How did you hook up with Matador?<br />Khan: They invited me over to talk in the NY office, signed me and gave me a very nice cheque.<br /><br />NP: What do you think of Kraftwerk?<br />Khan: I loved them when I was a kid growing up in Germany. It was pretty wild to see them on an afternoon TV show next to some cheesy Schlager singers playing "we are the robots". I still think they only make sense in the German language. They are just funny. Now I don't like them anymore I'm over it. At least they don't really try to come up with something new.<br /><br />NP: What do you hope to achieve with your music?<br />Khan: To bring soul into electronic music and enjoy what I do. I want to come up with new sounds and structures even if I have to go back to older forms of music like blues or jazz.<br /><br />NP: What Jazz are you a fan of?<br />Khan: More of a jizz fan. But I love Sun Ra, Chicago Art Ensemble, Frank Sinatra, Chet Baker, Billie Holliday.......Stravinski<br /><br />NP: What's your favourite John Carpenter film?<br />Khan: Escape From New York.<br /><br />NP: I meant to ask before, how did Julee Cruise get involved with your album?<br />Khan: Julee heard my stuff through a friend of mine and she liked it a lot so i gave her some tracks and she did lyrics and vocals for them. Mostly we talk about guys and sex. Recording is a minor concern between us.<br /><br />NP: What did/do you think of Twin Peaks and David Lynch?<br />Khan: I like David Lynch stuff but rather the new stuff. I was never a big fan of Twin Peaks......I'm not a big tv freak. I loved the soundtrack though.<br /><br />NP: What were you doing in Mexico?<br />Khan: Playing the "El Colmillo" club and taking my clothes off as usual.......I presented my new show there "Khan Sings" and will be back in South America with Julee for a whole tour in mid January.<br /><br />NP: What records have you released to date?<br />Khan And More EP Direct Drive 12"<br />Khan Sweet Pink Lemonade Mille Plateaux 10"<br />Khan B-Man XXC-3 10"<br />Khan Turkish Bath XXC-3 10"<br />Khan Silver Satellite Eat Raw 10"<br />Khan Ethic II V/A Eat Raw CD<br />Khan + Himadri Blade Switch? 12"<br />Khan + Walker Super -8 Super 8 12"<br />Khan Silent Movie Electro Bunker Cologne 12"<br />Khan Hot n' Spicy Middle Eastern Cooking 10"<br />Khan Electricity Harvest / EMI CD<br />Khan I don't wanna say anything Harvest / EMI 2x12"/CD5<br />Khan Psychic Khan El Turco Loco LP<br />Khan Orgien 1- 4 El Turco Loco LP<br />Khan Toys' R' Us El Turco Loco LP<br />Khan + Lary 7 Black Sabbath Riot El Turco Loco 12"<br />Khan Robot Wars 95 V/A Smile Communications 12"<br />Khan + Walker Empire State Building XXC-3 12"<br />Khan + Walker Empire State Building Harvest / EMI 2x12"/CD<br />Khan + Walker Schleichfahrt Disko B 2x12 / CD<br />Khan + Walker Simplex Harvest / EMI 12"/CD5<br />Khan S-8.2 SilentMovieSilverScreen Super 8 12"<br />Khan The Guarantor V/A Mille Plateaux 2xCD<br />Khan SilentMovieSilverScreen Caipirinha Productions CD<br />Khan Super-8.3 Super-8 12"<br />Khan Super-8.4 Super-8 12"<br />Khan Super-8.5 Super-8 12"<br />Khan Super-8.6 Blue Pool Part 1 Super-8 12"<br />Khan Super-8.7 Blue Pool Part 2 Super-8 12"<br />Khan + Susa Templin Blue Pool/Fish Tank Expo 2000 Super-8 CD<br />Khan 1 900 Get Khan Matador Records 2x12"/CD<br /><br />Bizz O.D. I'm coming out of your speakers Force Inc. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Black Jack EP Force Inc. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. O.D. Smile Communications 10"<br />Bizz O.D. Suzanne Goes Shopping DJ ungle Fever US 10"<br />Bizz O.D. Love Shack DJ ungle Fever US 10"<br />Bizz O.D. + Jimi Tenor Traffic EP Ozon 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Disco Trash Force Inc. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Get Up Smile Communications 10"<br />Bizz O.D. Beeper head in the Year 2000 Electro Bunker Cologne 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Bells and Bones Tekhed 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Bones Force Inc. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. Stomp, Fim 100 V/A Force Inc. 3x12"<br />Bizz O.D. Trail of Lost Souls Temple Rec. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. You may be Hard-core...but Force Inc. 12"<br />Bizz O.D. + Black One Little Funky Jazz Piano DJ ungle Fever 7"<br />Bizz O.D. Bass'n'Beans Force Inc. 12"<br /><br />Gizz T.V. Saure Gurken DJ ungle Fever 12"<br />Gizz T.V. Acid Ninjas DJ ungle Fever 7"<br />Gizz T.V. Little Shop of Acid DJ ungle Fever US 12"<br />Gizz T.V. Shakar Temple Rec. 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Walker Live at the Elektro DJ ungle Fever 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Walker Spread DJ ungle Fever 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Walker Little Lonesome Astronaut Force Inc. 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Walker Spalt Acid Orange 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Madonna 303 Mass- Turbator Structure 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Madonna 303 South 2nd Structure 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Madonna 303 Praise the Lord Temple Rec. 10"<br />Gizz T.V. + DX 13 Loop Vienna V/A Labworks 2x12 / CD<br />Gizz T.V. + DX 13 Phunky Force of Noiz Vol.1 V/A Rising High 2x12 / CD<br />Gizz T.V. + Gringo Should I stay or Should I....? Delirium 12"<br />Gizz T.V. + Gringo Contamination Monotone CD<br /><br />4E Temple Trax Force Inc. 12"<br />4E Don't Fuck with Nails Force Inc. 12"<br />4E Blue Note Home Entertainment CD<br />4E Blue Note/Black Note Home Entertainment 12"<br />4E Post Coitus V/A Home Entertainment CD<br />4E Serious Drop Out V/A Sony 2x12"/CD<br />4E Gentle Killer Socket 12"<br />4E O.G. Pharma 12"<br />4E introducing DJ Snax 4E4ME4YOU Mille Plateaux 2x12"/CD<br /><br />Fuzz D.J. + Walker Acid Burns N.Y.C. Smile Communications 12"<br /><br />Cube 40 U make me Function Temple Rec. 10"<br />Cube 40 Bad Computa Temple Rec. 12"<br />Cube 40 S/T Force Inc. 2x12"<br /><br />Global Electronic Network Roleiflex / Weltron Mille Plateaux 2x12"/CD<br />Global Electronic Network Time Square Mille Plateaux 12"<br />Global Electronic Network Electronic Desert Mille Plateaux 2x12"/CD<br />Global Electronic Network Electronic Desert Feat. 4E Mille Plateaux 12"<br />Global Electronic Network Modulation Transformation V/A Mille Plateaux 2x12"/CD<br />Global Electronic Network G.E.N.A.T.T.A.C.K.S. Harvest/EMI 12"/CD5<br /><br />H.E.A.D. EFS Blue GEF 2x12"/CD<br />H.E.A.D. Hedonist Blue GEF 2x12"/CD<br />H.E.A.D. Modular Sound Innovations V /A XXc-3 2x12"/CD<br />H.E.A.D. James Dean Harvest / EMI CD 5<br />H.E.A.D. 97/98 Harvest-EMI/Caipirinha 2x12"/CD<br /><br />Radiowaves Radiowellen / Radiowaves Rising High 2x12"/CD<br />Radiowaves Radiowellen / Radiowaves Harvest / EMI 2x12"/CD<br />Radiowaves Shortwaves/Kurzwellen Harvest / EMI 2x12"/CD<br /><br />German Electronic Foundation S / T Blue GEF 12"<br /><br />UMO S / T Home Entertainment CD<br />UMO UMO 2 Caipirinha Productions CDx<br /><br />Twizzler S / T Nervous/Sorted 12"<br />Twizzler Fuck You Up Nervous/Sorted 12"<br /><br />Biogas Vol. 1 Propulsion 285 12"<br /><br />Nylon Babies + DJ Keoki S / T X-Sight 12"<br /><br />Loisaida Sisters Home Cooking Pharma 12"<br /><br />Various Remixes for: NEU, Air Liquide, Jammin' Unit, Blue Pearl, Ars Antiqua and more.<br /><br />Exclusive Tracks contributed to various compilations and Mix-CD's.<br /><br />Works for German, Austrian and American Television as well as private Film productions.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-7649150950130461840?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703955407443032004-12-10T10:39:00.000-08:002010-02-07T03:14:13.644-08:00BOBBY CONN vs BRATPOP<br /><br />This was a long, wondrous and horrific 24 hours. Rarely have I squeezed so much into that period of time. The first band I saw, by surprise, was Fridge in the Rough Trade shop. I just thought they were some melodic Mogwai-esqe rip off band. Looking in disappointment, I smacked my head on the stairs railings stupidly, looking up to see some skater smirking.<br /><br />From there it was to Greek Street to interview Bobby Conn but not before getting lost in Soho ("mummy!"). The scheduled venue of the interview was the most packed cafe in London history it seems. The owner reminded me of Ma Gianni's from Eastenders. We were thrown out pretty politely, a surprise for the big smoke. In the end the interview took place in some dingey pub around the corner, where old people with dogs shared space with hipsters, as we talked with the angel of death.<br /><br />After over an hour of pounding with Mr Conn we returned to Matt's illegally parked car, which sat behind the venue (where Hirameka were playing), only inches from the Astoria, dead in the centre of London. We expected to find everything and anything there from it being torched, towed, clamped or ticketed. Upon our return though it sat content and happy, full of health. Gringo Conglomerate 1 London Clampers 0.<br /><br />Inside the venue, Plastic People in Oxford Street, the band were soundchecking. Inside there was no stage but to the left of me was two hollowed out washing machines with decks atop of them and a Bros 12 inch ready to go. To the right were some tense Bratpoppers awaiting a soundcheck. Flittering about was the ghost of Peter Cook. Freaky deaky. I took a piss in the girls toilets but not before scribbling on the door at eye level "Jason Graham has a really neat penis", like a bored desperate shithead does. We left the venue out the back entrance and it was completely surreal, pitch black save for muffled lightbulbs from inside buildings and the giant neon Centre Point light miles above. Hiding In the dead centre of London it was like the Gotham City of the noir original Batman movie instead of the childish, gloss sequels. We amscrayed before we could be killed, raped or robbed.<br /><br />After eating we returned to the club (Pornstar), us hangers on barely getting in without paying. We positioned ourselves in which was obviously was the make out corner. I dreaded (predicted) being swamped and suffocated later in the night (see below). Still the seats were comfy. And white. Out came the pen again and My Shit was forever (hopefully) emblazoned across the comfy chair.<br /><br />The first band on were called Role Models. I remember little, other than them playing an adjusted Elastica song with personalised vocals and lyrics, thus making it their own. Bravo Bratpoppers. I would guess they had had the best soundcheck so as a result they had the best sound. Their guitars sounded heavier than Elastica's so I guess they may have been into Hole as well or something. Nothing to get gooey over really I guess.<br /><br />Mouthwash punked next. They had punk drums and punk bass. The singer started out doing a chicken dance and a chicken rap. The drum and bass reminded me a little of late Minor Threat (aka not the choicest MT cuts). Towards the end I suggested that it might be better had they got a guitarist in and then I had it pointed out to me that they had one. Ewww. I hope it wasn't meant to be so no-show. With effort and concentration (and probably imagination) I was just about able to hear something. The weedy guitar rendered them little more than some hyperactive ska band.<br /><br />Thirdo was Product, which in my opinion is a very good name for a band. Certain parties in this band were instantly recognisable. Fortunately this band did not sound like der Orchestra. The reference point here seemed to be Placebo and their fizzy guitars, watered down. Unfortunately by this point I had lost interest. The bands were running late and I was panicking as we had to haul arse across London immediately after the show.<br /><br />Hirameka Hi Fi weren't really, really.....neat. I have no idea what happened. I was left to look after our shit (my shit) in the make out corner all on my own. And the inevitable happened. I guess it is an endearing site imagining a bunch of drunken teenagers bobbing about as I go out of my mind trying to save our personal items. It's funny now but I'll tell you (in a voice like Dougal's) it sure wasn't at the time. I ended up mailing a hate note to Melody Maker the next morning, which when they printed several weeks after I had forgotten I'd posted the fucker. Well they were dancing atop what feebly was the Gringo stall (ie some records sprawled over a table). Fucked off I poured a bottle of water over the most annoying drunken teenager and it turned out she was in a band called Cheetara (no me neither), she told me, and her rosey red cheeks appeared in MM weeks later (I add this because she now denies the incident. Funny what memories (underage) drinking will evaporate).<br /><br />It turned out though that there were bigger arseholes in the house in the form of the ****er security men. Seconds after Hirameka ended their set they set about throwing every living organism out as if the shithole venue was on fire. Fuck them, I hope they die. Outside, in Gotham City, confronted by big arse rock trucks we waddled past the Astoria crew of the headliners there that night. Holy fuck it was HELLOWEEN from Germany! Well, their instruments and crew. We also think Cleopatra may have been in that particular house (or else that is the name of a club there but I'd like to think we were mere inches away from three exploited teenagers).<br /><br />The mission was to now get to some loft in Stoke Newington (fuck knows where that is) before 11pm. Matt got us to a place with a similar address to the loft and he ran round like a dedicated trooper as the remainder of us remained in horror as it looked like some Saturday night gang warfare was about to kick off. Frozen with fear, we were soon snapped out of it as Matt said he had found the place. We made comically pathetic attempts to run the whole way to the place, the smart realising the suckers running ahead would keep the door open for us slackers.<br /><br />Inside Bobby was on. And not just on the stage, he was on in the way NME suggests but never achieves. We were in and immediately, BAM! on stage he was rocking the place. I couldn't believe we were watching a show in a place where someone lives. I realise now I am unlikely to ever be anywhere so hip again (Diego Maradona was spotted in attendance). On stage was a band with character as opposed to some convenient retro punk band. To both sides of the stage were girls hula hooping (as featured in Hudsucker Proxy). Stage right the renamed Dr Weasel Walter rocked out in a fake moustache and Slayer shirt, lurching about metal fashion as stage left Monica Bou Bou, bewigged, played her violin from inside a catsuit. Centre stage Bobby Conn was acting larger than life. He reached for heaven and pulled down a pipe. All to an FM classic waiting to happen. The band (and its music) tasted so fresh. Much should be made of Monica Bou Bou's electric violin. In order to be of quality more bands should employ them. Here is a basic string section with full effect. Unlike the previous evening's entertainment these songs were devoid of worthless aggression and irrational angst. The sound is mature with amazing lyrics adding a sinister twist (edge). Baby Man sounded great and United Nations moved the room (loft). The undisputed highlight was Never Get Ahead (unsurprisingly). Without fear the showman grabbed the beam above the stage and began climbing revealing a similar stature and hunger to prime rib Iggy Pop. Dangling, monkey style, a gracious audience member held his mike in place as Bobby sang the song upside down. Upon returning upright the baying crowd began tugging at his jumpsuit slacks. Out came his arse, then pubes and then the inevitable which he promptly grabbed to completely insinuate the meaning behind the song. To really emphasise, push the point, he had popped out his ween. Dedication (that's what you need to be a record breaker). Here was a man suffering for his art. The place was into him.<br /><br />On the way home some mad fucker deer came running out of nowhere into the road and all the way home we enjoyed spooking and fucking with the driver's head, claiming that he was imagining the fine beast that either he had almost been taken or that had almost taken him out. We then stopped at a 24 hour Tesco Superstore to stock up which was inexplicably closed. Shan't be late night shopping there again in a hurry. Fucking corporations.<br />BOBBY CONN<br /><br />Bobby Conn: You have "hi how are you" already listed on there (my question sheet)<br />Jason Graham: Yeah.<br />BC: We've already gotten that one down. I like that, that's preparation! You know, I've noticed that the English interviewers, the press, seems to pride themselves on having the questions typed out. Not just handwritten but typed out.<br />Alun Shepherd: The Dutch would just handwrite them out.<br />BC: Yeah, if they even had questions, which the Dutch don't have, questions. They just go like (in mondo Dutch accent, slowly) "well Bobby, tell us.....something".<br />JG: Do they? I dunno. How about the English? Do you like England?<br />BC: Oh, like? Yes, yes.<br />JG: What about the food? Do you like the food?<br />BC: Yes.<br />JG: Well, its like, whenever Americans come over to this country they just bitch about the food.<br />BC: The food? I mean, in America you can get really bad food, without trying very hard.<br />JG: They're not overly gourmet in this country, Americans say how everything gets boiled in this country so....<br />BC: Well you know, we had mixed grill today.<br />JG: Did you enjoy it?<br />BC: I did actually. It was very odd, an odd assortment of meats. Liver, steak, some kind of weird bacon. Like all on one plate. It was odd. So is this two different fanzines or one fanzine?<br />JG: We're mates.<br />BC: Ah, now that looks like a fanzine.<br />JG: So what do you make of Soho then?<br />BC: Here? Why are we doing this here? Mr Prinsloo has odd concepts. So far I've been in a little like boutiquey shop to eat and then a tea shop and then here. Here is the most comfortable but its like odd. Why he picks Soho? Is it centrally located or something?<br />JG: It's centrally located.<br />AS: This is Soho? So it is like 42nd Street.<br />BC: Yeah, I mean this is Broadway. This is like the theatre district.<br />AS: This is precisely like the type of location you deliberately avoid when we're in New York.<br />BC: Yeah.<br />JG: Yeah, well I guess you know that. Sorry I didn't catch your name?<br />BC: This is Alun Shepherd.<br />JG: Alun Shepherd?<br />AS: Yeah, its A L U N. Alright.<br />JG: Oh, like the Welsh!<br />BC: Yes (?)<br />JG: So, how did last night go?<br />BC: Very good, very good. It was full of people and it sounded...... I think it was very affective.<br />JG: Really? What sort of reaction did you get?<br />BC: Er, "yay", (claps). "Yes!". "I like you very much sir". I got "we love you Bobby". I got "thanks for a great show".<br />JG: Did you get a "wooo!"?<br />BC: I got a "wooo!". I got several "Wooos!".<br />AS: A man in Hamburg proposed to him.<br />JG: Really?<br />BC: Yeah.<br />AS: He told him he thought now that he loved him and he wanted to live in a glass dome with him.<br />JG: Are you going to take him up on it?<br />BC: I can't marry everyone that wants to marry me.<br />JG: I wish I had that problem. How many interviews have you done today?<br />BC: This is my fifth.<br />JG: Are you getting tired of them?<br />BC: Just a little (screams with frustration).<br />MN: We caught you at a bad time then?<br />BC: No, not at a bad time (grabs my questions). "How about the weather?". The weather is beautiful.<br />JG: Its turned out nice now. So what has been the most asked question?<br />BC: Basically, probably the most asked question is about the anti-Christ. That's generally the angle that people wanna start with. And that’s like an hour right there. To explain that is like an hour so....<br />JG: We'll have to fragment that question.<br />BC: You're gonna have to lead me round to that one. The last guy, oh my god, what a doubting Thomas he was.<br />JG: Really?<br />BC: Yeah, he did not, he would not budge an inch. He was tough, tough guy. Hard. Hard boiled hard ball. He just asked "so what's this about you being the anti-Christ?".<br />JG: But you are, aren't you?<br />BC: Yeah, yeah, yeah I explained it but its like.......lets lead up to that one. Lets not start with that.<br />JG: Yeah, some people are like so cynical<br />(Bobby looks up, breathing like Darth Vader as if possessed by, say, the force).<br />JG: Have you done the erm......OK?<br />BC: Fine.<br />JG: Have you done the MTV VJing yet (on M2)?<br />BC: No, that's tomorrow. No, Monday.<br />JG: What are you going to play?<br />BC: You know, I don't know. This is something that is very interesting, they gave, they said that I'll be able to look in their library and pick all of my favourite videos, seven of them. You know, the last time I watched MTV was in 1984, I think, so.....<br />JG: Dire Straits!<br />BC: Actually that’s one of them.<br />JG: That's the only video they had back then.<br />BC: (Bobby sings) "Money for nothing and chicks for free". I might pick that. I think I might pick Dance Hall Days by Wayne Chung (?). (more singing).<br />AS: You don't even know these tunes do you?<br />JG: Not that one.<br />BC: Or the Karma Song (?) (more singing)<br />AS: Do you know that one?<br />JG: No.<br />AS: How old are you?<br />Matt: 20<br />BC: You're 20? Oh!<br />JG: 22<br />AS: How old were you in 1984?<br />BC: He was a tot.<br />JG: I was in school.<br />MN: I was seven.<br />AS: You were seven years old!<br />BC: The same year. So that's going to be tough to pick videos. Maybe you could give me some videos that you might like to see.<br />JG: Pick your own. I really enjoyed your video.<br />BC: Well thank you. I mean that’s, I guess I should explain since people are thinking that that video was deliberate. Like that’s just, that video, is an excert from a children's dance party show on Chicago Cable Access. And I dunno if you're familiar how cable works in America, you know they, the cable companies, are granted the franchise they have to allocate a certain number of channels for local programming.<br />JG: Public Access.<br />BC: Yeah, Public Access, and then you can just have shows and a friend of ours has got this show called Chic-A-Go-Go which is a children's dance show.<br />JG: How do you spell that?<br />Weasel Walter: Its like saying Chicago.<br />JG: Oh yeah.<br />BC: So he asked me to be on the show that day and I was there with this other character called The Lord Of Lightning who is this kind of washed up, R n B guitarist, sort of in the Hendrix mold. This guy from the south side of Chicago and he released a single in 1985 or 1986 called "I want To Get To Know You", it was like this sort of psychedelic Hendrix riff thing. That was his only single, he comes with this Macramay guitar swing, lip synchs his song and then I come out lip synch my song for an audience of like 8 children and a few adults but the video is like, just that excert, is just like so strange. Hello, how are you?<br />Monica Bou Bou: I went shopping and then a Ju Jitsu Class<br />BC: You took a Ju Jitsu Class?<br />MBB: I took a Ju Jitsu Class.<br />BC: Oh, yay!!!! (Bobby clapping and cheering). So, er, yeah, so that's the video. So its not like a, we didn't, er, its just the way it turned out.<br />JG: I saw the video, it was on MTV and.....<br />BC: We need Chic-A-Go-Go. They need to have a show like Chic-A-Go-Go on MTV. I think.<br />JG: It could happen now with it (TV) going digital in this country, so the telly channels have expanded to about a thousand channels. Why did you release Never Get Ahead as a single?<br />BC: Why did I release that as a single?<br />JG: I mean as opposed to, you could have done something from the new album but you chose that one.<br />BC: Ah, well actually, yeah Never Get Ahead actually was done, its off the first album and it just got released as a single here because Southern decided to do that. I would have liked to release a single off the new record but no one has been forthcoming with an offer.<br />JG: We'll do it!<br />BC: You'd do it? You would release a single?<br />JG: We do a label but yeah. There’s some good songs on the new album.<br />BC: Yeah, I'd give you one of those songs of the new album and I'd give you a b-side too. It'd be great. I would love to see United Nations as a single, I think it would be a great single.<br />JG: Steve the bassist in our band, that's his favourite. Its a great song. The opening lines of Never Get Ahead though....spot on! You're talking about compromise... Have you seen the Bobby Conn Official Unofficial Lovepad website?<br />BC: That's not the one from Chicago?<br />WW: The one from Chicago. The kid.....<br />BC: It's a lovepad?<br />WW: It's got a page on it that's like sort of his message board that's attached to it and he has a picture of him on.<br />BC: Yeah, I met the guy that, I think I know what you're talking about, I've seen or I've met that guy. That guy is... You know my idea is that ideally that people who would be making fan clubs or websites would be young, attractive boys or young attractive girls but this fellow is someone who has lived with his mother and dropped out of school because he is so frightened of other people that he stays at home all the time and plays with his computer. So, it's not really....<br />JG: It's a sort of stereotype.<br />BC: Yeah, a stereotype fanboy. The ultimate fanboy but I'm trying to get him out of his shell just for my own purposes because if he is going to be doing the fan club without any money I want him to be more presentable so I'm trying to get him like a suit, like an Armani suit or something to sort of dress him up a little bit and then I think people will respond to him, I don't think he needs to be so shy. You know if you look good, then you're gonna feel good. Right?<br />JG: Yeah, right, I got a haircut for today. Does he subscribe to the Continuous Cash Flow System then?<br />BC: Do I still?<br />JG: Does he?<br />BC: Does he? Oh, I don't..... yeah, I guess he does because he lives with his mom, so yeah. So I guess, you know, money is irrelevant to him. Yeah.<br />JG: Did you used to be an accountant then?<br />BC: No, no. I never was an accountant. I used to sell real estate via phone out of New York and, er, yes that was a very unsuccessful venture ultimately in that it lead to a short conviction for mail fraud, back when I was in my early twenties, 21.<br />JG: Pleasantville yeah?<br />MBB: (butting in) did you get a chord for your computer?<br />(in background some cockney geezer repeatedly saying Tesco)<br />BC: It was impossible.<br />WW: He wasn't able to have time to.<br />JG: Did you see the description of yourself as "Beck-style pop rock" in the local listings?<br />BC: As a what style?<br />JG: A "Beck-style pop rock".<br />BC: Oh well, let's see the comparisons I've had. The worst one, or the one that's most unappealing, was our last show in Holland, the billboard said "Hendrix versus McCartney". It's a battle between a corpse and an old knight of the realm.<br />WW: A fuddy duddy.<br />BC: A fuddy duddy. Very unappealing. Also "the Make Up on acid". That's another one I find perplexing.<br />WW: "The Allman Brothers versus Oz Mabarach (?)".<br />BC: That's a very tenuous reference. I don't know, are you familiar with the work of Oz Mabarach?<br />JG: No.<br />WW: And neither is he.<br />BC: Anyway, also "the Tortoise combined with Captain Beefheart". Pretty unappealing brew there. "Bobby Conn is better than David Bowie", that's also a Dutch one. It's awful. So "Beck-style" is like a......new one. "Ween like" also "Ween like". "Zappa". People compared the first record, they seemed to think it was a Zappa album. The irony is that I don't own a single Tortoise, Beck, Oz Mabarach, I do own some David Bowie records, I'll grant you that, Allman Brothers, Captain Beefheart, I never even heard these bands. Zappa, I've never heard this stuff. So....its because I don't listen to music.<br />JG: You don't?<br />BC: No, I listen to, I mean my head is filled with all the popular music that was first fed to me during my childhood and then I buy a lot of singles at the thrift store which I like, R n B and stuff from the seventies.<br />JG: You have a very pop sound, its very....its like the sort of music that people usually buying Southern stuff don't usually buy, the stuff that you're playing and its a really nice release so say like that you're into that sort of music. Have you heard of Robbie Williams?<br />BC: Robbie Williams? No.<br />JG: Cliff Richard?<br />BC: Keith Richard....<br />JG: Cliff Richard!<br />BC: Cliff Richard? No.<br />JG: GG Allin?<br />BC: Heard of him, don't have much time for him.<br />MBB: Good thing cos he's dead.<br />BC: That's true, he is dead isn't he.<br />JG: So is Hendrix.<br />BC: Yeah, that's true, Hendrix is also dead. The same way too.<br />MBB: Someone gave me some funny money today.<br />BC: What, fake money?<br />MBB: Not fake, out of date....<br />JG: 50p?<br />MBB: ...and I cannot get rid of it. I tried and no one would take this stuff.<br />AS: What the fuck is this?<br />JG: A 50p.<br />AS: Wow, I have one of those too.<br />MBB: Yeah, well the smaller ones are good but not the big ones.<br />BC: Why won't they redeem this? What the hell?<br />Matt: You can take it to a bank.<br />BC: You can take it to a bank?<br />MBB: (in sarcastic English accent) "I'm sorry ma'am, we can't take this".<br />JG: You should hold onto it, it'll become a collectors piece.<br />BC: This was made from 1977.<br />JG: Yeah, that's what I mean. It'll be a collectors piece.<br />MBB: In fact I have a mind to go back to that restaurant and demand her give me a proper one.<br />JG: It's kind of typically English.<br />BC: They spotted your American accent and thought "oh, we can get rid of this old 50p".<br />AS: I'm gonna run out and try and find an adapter.<br />MBB: And you know what else happened to me today? Some children, not children, teenagers said "you're not in Moscow now".<br />BC: Yes. Well that hat has drawn much criticism in Europe.<br />WW: Tsk tsk.<br />MBB: "Go back to fucking Moscow!"<br />WW: You should turn the page really, the most interesting subjects.<br />JG: The other side?<br />WW: Ah, this side!<br />JG: I was building up to those ones.<br />WW: Oh I see.<br />JG: These are the motherfuckers these ones.<br />BC: Oh wait, I've seen these questions before.<br />JG: Isn't this a whole set of new questions?<br />BC: No, I've seen these before. I was supposed to answer these questions months ago via e-mail, that’s how I recognise them. You know why I didn't answer these questions?<br />JG: Because they're a bit personal?<br />BC: No, just because I kept putting it off and putting it off.<br />JG: Jeff had mentioned you'd spoken to you about them.<br />BC: I have been thinking about them a lot. You're the accountant.<br />JG: You got my e-mails then....<br />BC: Yeah.<br />JG: ...where I said my label's making money and should I put it into a new record or buy a motor bike.<br />BC: Yeah. No, I remember all this stuff. Let's see (grabs questions and doesn't give them back).<br />JG: You're cheating, I wasn't prepared, I just went into the PC and took a copy.<br />BC: The thing is also, you didn't have the new record on this one.<br />JG: I've listened to the records, hooks on it.<br />BC: Now this is a funny one, I can't believe people actually believe it. Do I look like someone that would actually cut off their own finger?<br />JG: I was going to check it without asking (looks) oh no.<br />BC: That would be insane!<br />JG: That would be painful.<br />BC: Cross that one off. "Was I an accountant?". No. "Starsign". Gemini.<br />MBB: Gemini is the best!<br />BC: You?<br />JG: Leo.<br />Matt: Virgo.<br />WW: Taurus.<br />BC &amp; MBB: Gemini!<br />BC: "The happiest event I have ever witnessed". Someone else asked me a question like this. These are hard questions, like the happiest! I'm trying to think of a happy event. Er, what's your happiest event? Let me just see what the standard is.<br />JG: Happiest event?<br />BC: Yeah.<br />MBB: The day you got released!?<br />BC: Errrr (reluctance) yeah, I mean that was a good event, it was a relief but it was not a.....<br />MBB: The day you met me!<br />BC: That wasn't an event. That was very nice though.<br />JG: First kiss.<br />BC: First kiss?<br />JG: No, that's mine.<br />BC: That was yours.<br />JG: That was more spontaneous than the other thing.<br />BC: Let me think, my first kiss. Hmm, that was nice.<br />JG: When was that then?<br />BC: Er, I was at a movie, with a girl watching Raiders Of The Lost Ark.<br />MBB: Wow! (starts der der dering Indiana Jones theme).<br />JG: What part of the film?<br />BC: That wasn't my first kiss, that was my first protracted sexual grope session. We were like, the entire movie was like..... (squirty noises and failing arm gestures).<br />MBB: My first kiss was like a sweet Madonna kinda thing, passion game.<br />BC: Mmmm.<br />MBB: Post office.<br />BC: No?<br />MBB: You didn't play those games?<br />BC: No! First kiss, we'll put that down.<br />JG: Yeah, Raiders! Good film.<br />MBB: First grope session.<br />BC: First make out session (writes it down). Actually it was humiliating, it was also a really sad event because my friends at the time, it was when I was fourteen, my friends at the time were like "I cannot believe you're making out with her, she is so gross!" and what did I do?<br />MBB: Dumped her?<br />BC: I dumped her like a hot piece of shit.<br />MBB: Ahhh! Like the shit you were.<br />BC: Yes. And then for years afterwards, for years, I would have very powerful sexual, masturbatory fantasies about having sex with her.<br />MBB: Who was it? Somebody you shacked up with?<br />BC: This is actually a pretty awful story, so I'm glad I dumped her, they did me a favour but I should have.... I could have had sex with her!<br />MBB: Or you could have figured it out for yourself.<br />BC: Yeah.<br />MBB: Following the crowd!<br />BC: (next question) "Do you believe in putting subliminals in your music?". Of course not, he said with a knowing wink. "Are jokers more interesting than winners?". I thought this was a really good question. This is really good. I almost made a song out of this, I was thinking "there's gotta be a lyric in here". I may use this.<br />JG: It's a great first line.<br />BC: I'll copyright that. But that's a hard one. I think losers are winners you know. When you're a joker you get it both ways. That's what I'm always, you see I'm a Gemini, I like to have it both ways.<br />MBB: That's a goddamn question (in distance a whippet yelps).<br />BC: "Are you lonesome tonight?". You know, I started to write this interview when I was in a really bad mood and it wasn't coming out very funny and then I thought I don't wanna give it a bummer. It wasn't like no but... And I won't be because I'm gonna rock tonight!<br />JG: Do you know the band who are supporting you? Penthouse?<br />BC: No I don't but I hear they sound like Jesus Lizard.<br />JG: Yeah, mixed with the Birthday Party. Stonking and really good.<br />BC: "Does Jim O'Rourke play in the band often?". Pretty often.<br />MBB: Sometimes.<br />BC: He's done it like four or five times, played in the band in Chicago. But you know, he's very busy, like he's always busy, like right now he's on like three months of travels and he's gonna do the Stereolab record and all this shit. So he's like, he's the hardest working man in the music business. Probably. ("what significant about 13 June 2000?). It's my birthday!<br />MBB: It's my birthday?<br />BC: You see, what's gonna happen is that if I am the antichrist, which is not certain but is just a gut instinct I feel very strongly about it, if I'm the antichrist that’s when I, I mean that’s when its going to all come together for me. If you think about it; Jesus. From age one to age thirty three; carpenter! That's it! Just a carpenter and then when he hit thirty three he goes, he gets baptised by John the Baptist, he goes to Israel, he goes to Jerusalem, he gathers his disciples by the side of the mountain, does all the Jesus stuff, he does in like the last six weeks of his life, its like a very short time. All the other time he's just hanging out, making stuff, carpentry. So, his career as Messiah is a very short one. So that's what I'm hoping and then I'm hoping when I'm 33 I'll really come into my own as an antichrist because I'm really, I'm terribly far behind in terms of unifying the nations of the world and that sort of thing. I'm really way behind. The first record was supposed to sell like a 100,000 copies and now its only sold like 800 so....<br />JG: This question here certainly links to that one really ("do you believe in the live fast, die young philosophy?").<br />BC: Er, live fast die young? (pauses and contemplates) I've been living pretty fast and I'm not dead yet.<br />JG: But Jesus died at 33.<br />BC: Is it young? You know I'm 31 now. I don't feel that young, I feel pretty old.<br />JG: What was 30 like?<br />BC: Was it a barrier? Yeah, actually it was a very depressing year. I had recorded my first fucking solo record and I'm 30. You know, 800 copies! Not very auspicious. Its like "why am I doing this? This is ridiculous, I'm getting nowhere fast". So....but this year I am feeling much better. So, no no no. "Should people called Paul be avoided?". No, its not so much the name Paul, its more the connotation of the Pauls.<br />JG: Its not the name its the....<br />BC: Yeah, and you understand that?<br />JG: Its just me and Matthew have known people called Paul in the past and...<br />BC: Really?<br />JG: Someone called Paul Buck but with a name like that...<br />BC: Paul Buck?<br />JG: I grew up with him.<br />BC: Is he an ass?<br />JG: He was mad.<br />BC: Insane?<br />JG: Pretty much.<br />BC: I find the Pauls I am thinking about are very talented but sneaky and manipulative like the Apostle Paul or Sir Paul.<br />JG: Did you ever look into the Paul Stanley thing?<br />BC: Paul Stanley also, I mean he's a real sleezeball but the thing about Paul Stanley is he's not particularly talented really. Would you say he is particularly talented?<br />WW: No.<br />BC: But compared to say Gene Simmons.... (sees teethy picture of himself) that is not pleasant. That's rather unpleasant.<br />JG: That picture, when I first saw it, scared me to death. You look so angry and hungry.<br />BC: Yes. Well I am hungry. "Who is Dr Weasel Walter?" (points at the man)<br />WW: I'm not really a Dr. I think I know what you're talking about. The young man who interviewed me, I was sort of, before I was in the band, I was sort of working as Bobby's press agent. Bobby didn't feel like he was ready to talk to anybody so we would sit around having long discussions and you know , about what he was thinking, and I would sort of inform people about what he was talking about and this person mistook it that I was a doctor. Its really messed up.<br />JG: What shirt are you wearing?<br />WW: This is an old Slayer t-shirt, Satanic Grimoth.<br />JG: They're not the best thing but at least you know they mean it.<br />WW: Yeah, yeah, its a hate of love.<br />BC: Erm, "what pisses me off?". These anger questions are really hard. I'm just not feeling that hot headed today. What pisses you off?<br />JG: The small things. The things that get to you most, like when you're driving along and someone cuts you up. There’s this thing in England, Road Rage, that I don't think you get in America.<br />BC: Road Rage? People shoot each other’s cars in our country. Actually, that keeps Road Rage down because people feel like it can escalate to a point, like in Los Angeles its very common for people to like cut you off, someone cuts you off and you have a gun, you shoot them. It happens quite a lot (starts laughing).<br />JG: Do they do that in Chicago?<br />BC: Not so much because Chicago isn't such a driving city as L.A. is but.... I guess the rats in my front yard piss me off.<br />MBB: The deer problem in Humble Park.<br />BC: The deer problem is excessive which pisses me off. People shooting each other for no good reason in my neighbourhood pisses me off.<br />WW: Damn!<br />BC: "What do I do about it?". I put my head under the pillow. "Describe Short And Sweet and did they put out any records?"......<br />MBB: (reading Sleaze Nation article) Monica Bobo?!<br />BC: Bobo? Are you Bobo?<br />MBB: Misspelling.<br />BC: Fuck!<br />MBB: Did you do this interview?<br />BC: I did this interview.<br />MBB: You did! You said then......<br />BC: I said Bou Bou, I didn't say Bobo.<br />MBB: It's verbatim, right?<br />BC: I didn't write it out.<br />WW: There will be other mistakes. You're talking to Weasel Walter instead Walter Weasel here.<br />MBB: Oh well, I'll expect it many many times then.<br />BC: OK, I'll talk about Condeucent. Condeucent was my first favourite band I was in. And we were like an experiment? I don't know. We were like just four hippy freaks that lived in an apartment and slept with each other and made improvisational music together.<br />JG: When you mean sleeping together, is that like in the same bed or....<br />BC: Both same bed and inside of each other’s bodies. And then usually when inside each other, we were actually not sleeping at that time, we'd be awake, but an early incestuous band. And we all got a group tattoo, we were very.....<br />JG: What was that tattoo?<br />BC: Our logo. Isolated, very isolated. Very out of step (draws it).<br />JG: It's like the Now Wave thing (logo).<br />BC: Oh yeah, that's right. Here, Weasel, look.<br />WW: Wow, that’s kind of weird.<br />MBB: What is that?<br />BC: This is the logo, this is Now Wave, this Condeucent.<br />JG: Where have you got your tattoo?<br />BC: Where did I get my tattoo? On my arm, right here. I showed it to the Swedish woman but I'm not going to show it to you.<br />JG: I won't show you mine then.<br />BC: Do you have one?<br />WW: Oh yes?<br />BC: So anyway, we anticipated, we played for a long time and people would say stuff like "you know you guys really sound like Can" and then we got a Can record and it turned out we kind of did sound like Can but then that Post Rock explosion happened in Chicago about that Kraut Rock shit and we were long broken up by that point, so we were unable to bask in the glory...<br />WW: ...of being so lame.<br />BC: Of being so lame. But we did put out two records that are pretty good, they're quite good, two singles.<br />JG: What label was that on?<br />BC: We just put them out ourselves. One of the records will be for sale tonight.<br />JG: Really?<br />BC: I'll give it to you. You deserve a single.<br />JG: Please.<br />BC: Short And Sweet was a collaboration between me recording under the name of Shorty Roughneck. This is a true story. I live in Humble Park, which is a part of Chicago, for like ten years and these little kids would be like "Yo! Look at that, it's Shorty Roughneck. Look at him, it's Shorty Roughneck over there, look at him. You think you're so tough Shorty Roughneck". So its my street name. I was like, I was so happy. "I got a street name given to me by real little black children gave me a street name. I'm like street now, I have street credibility because I am Shorty Roughneck". And then Johnny Sweet, who lived a few houses away, he got his street name the same way, like six months later, because he was wearing a like really nice silky shirt. "Oh yeah, look at that, it's Johnny Sweet. Look at Johnny Sweet". So we decided to be Short And Sweet. And it was premium super hard rock. Two guitars and a drum machine. And anthems like "My Love Landed On You", "It's Too Hard!", all sexual songs. Songs about sexual ecstasy in a hard rock vein. And we later added the drummer from Condeucent, Ray Shawn, who is now living in Frankfurt Germany and it was a very nice band. We weren't able to record, Johnny Sweet and I had a falling out in that he's..... well, we're both difficult to work with, let's just put it that way. "Will I be using MTV?". Well yes, on Monday.<br />JG: How about VH-1 though?<br />BC: I don't know about VH-1. I think VH-1 would be more suitable because they would probably have the vintage videos that I would like to see. "Are you the first Edutainer". No, edutainer is something, there are many edutainers, they generally have....<br />JG: Richard Simmons, is he one?<br />BC: Richard Simmons?<br />WW: Richard Simmons, yup, yes he is.<br />BC: Yeah, he is an edutainer.<br />WW: He's made records.<br />JG: Has he?<br />BC: They're..... (breaks down laughing)<br />WW: You can only imagine, let's put it that way. If you can make it through that whole record, you're a pretty damn hard person.<br />BC: They're anti-music. Imagine the thinnest, like thinnest most trebly irritating disco music and then Richard Simmons is like "OK! Come on! Wake up, it's a really great morning!". Its insane, its really psychotic. Richard Simmons is an edutainer.<br />JG: He cracks me up, every time he's on Oprah or Ricki.<br />BC: I love him, he's great. He's fantastic. He understands that, some people are born with only one thing, their personality. You know who else I really like who is British? You know Leo Sayer? "I know I can dance! I know I can dance!".<br />MBB: What's the beers?<br />BC: I got that bitter beer. Its really good.<br />JG: Get Carlsberg.<br />MBB: Carlsberg. And you got the bitter?<br />BC: "Can using the CCFS lead to alcoholism or drug abuse?". Yes. It does, it does.<br />JG: I would imagine so as they are very expensive items and they can be consumed on mixed levels.<br />BC: And they also, alcohol and drugs, generally take you out of a sense of thinking about the future because you're into immediate please then. They're actually, its almost, its very hard to contain the CCFS without drinking heavily because otherwise you start worrying about all the people that hate you.<br />JG: What do you think of people that are straight edge?<br />BC: Straight edge? Well. No, fine, excellent. Good for them!<br />JG: It's just I've got a friend who's gone straight edge and he just seems to be denying himself.<br />BC: Well I mean, its like any other kind of fanaticism, you know, whether its being a junkie or being a teetotaller, if you're an ass about it, it's irritating. I personally like to sample all of life's pleasures in amounts that I can control. So I love heroin, it's a fun drug but you can't really do it more than a few times a year without, er, having problems.<br />MBB: How much do you tip?<br />JG: We don't in this country.<br />WW: That 50 pence piece.<br />MBB: I tried to give it to them already. It failed.<br />BC: He said "this is not useful". Yeah, I don't recommend people do heroin but its a good drug if you do want to try it.<br />JG: You can have some real good times I've heard.<br />BC: Yeah but some people vomit when they take it. I don't, I love it.<br />JG: There's a whole problem, there’s a whole stigma attached to it, you don't really want to get involved in that scene.<br />BC: Right, whatever. You know its just like anything else. I mean its just like potato chips or anything else. It's like.....pursuing a heroin lifestyle is very boring. LSD also, I did a lot of that and I don't need to do that anymore. Marijuana, useful but again gets very boring. Alcohol, I can't really get drunk anymore, it takes too much effort, I get too sleepy. Speed, very hard on the body. Quaaludes, who can find them? I can't find Quaaludes. You know, like Barbiturate pills.<br />JG: Have you tried Prozac?<br />BC: Er, a drug that just makes you feel like good?<br />JG: It makes you fart too.<br />BC: It makes you fart? It makes you not want to have sex. Cocaine, I don't like, it makes me feel like a bug. I don't like that. You know I'm already extroverted enough so the idea of me being more extroverted sounds like an arsehole. Actually when I did try it I wasn't in a very talkative mood, I just felt kind of like I hated people. There was nasty shit running down my throat and I felt like an insect. And then when I woke up I started crying. Yeah, that's a great drug.<br />MBB: What drug was that?<br />BC: Cocaine. Remember the morning after? I was in tears. "Will I be pursuing multinational corporations?".<br />JG: Yeah, you actually offered to do a seminar at my firm I work at.<br />BC: Yeah, I would. I would love to do that, it would be so funny but I would have to do it in like the cafeteria but it seems you don't have a cafeteria. I had visions of like a big office block. Yeah, but that's like the kind of thing I'd like to do, seminars in cafeterias.<br />JG: Especially as I was thinking that in my line of work, the accountants are influential with clients, it would be a really good way of targeting people.<br />BC: You see, you do realise that that will land you in jail.<br />JG: I personally would not subscribe to it, it would harm my reputation.<br />BC: You've got to have ethics. I don't but you should. (next question regarding Bill Hicks and the Waco incident). Um, Bill Hicks is a genius. "Do I fear the FBI?". Well the FBI, actually no what is scary is that on that website, that fanboy website, he is telling me who hits that website, he says that the Justice Department of the United States visited it five times. That’s not a good sign for Bobby. So, do I fear the FBI? Yes I do now. I'm not worried about the FBI rubbing me out ala David Koresh but I'm worried more about people like Koresh rubbing me out. I worry about assassination at the hands of Right Wing fanatics.<br />JG: What did you make of Koresh and what he did?<br />BC: Well he was a nut along the same lines as Marshall Applewhite of the Heaven's Gate thing and Jim Jones. He's a nut along those lines, a very American style nut. But the FBI. They assassinated him and they killed 80 innocent people. That attack was one of the most heinous crimes of our government. What makes it so heinous is that they could have easily arrested Koresh in the years prior to that but for some reason they would rather eliminate like 60 children. "Do I think I'll be reincarnated?" Reincarnated, maybe. Reincarcerated, not if I can possibly help it. I will move to Brazil before I go back to jail. "How does touching people assist my cause?". Because it feels good and its warm! "Do I trust the music press?" No, why should I? Why should I trust anyone? Why should you trust me? We don't know each other. We're not really friends, we're just meeting over this talk. It's not personal...<br />JG: You're trying to get your message across, we're trying to get something interesting to read.<br />BC: We're using each other, in the friendliest way. In the nicest way, right? "Have I seen 'Brewster's Millions'?" No I haven't, but I see your point - he's trying to spend all his money.<br />JG: You should, it's very.<br />BC: I love Richard Pryor.<br />JG: And John Candy?<br />BC: John Candy? I feel very sorry about him. I feel very bad for him. Did you ever see Second City Television? It was a TV show he had in Canada and later in the<br />US. Amazing show, really fucking funny. He was incredible on that, but his movie career was like (dive-bomb whistles). Just cheesier and cheesier shit.<br />WW: He generally played the bumbling uncle. Your relative that is a little clumsy!<br />BC: Right. Are you familiar with Chris Farley?<br />JG: Yeah.<br />BC: John Candy didn't have it as bad as Chris Farley did. Chris Farley really got fucked. The amount of self-loathing that that man was encouraged to partake<br />in was...<br />JG: When John Candy died he had newspaper coverage but when Chris Farley died, nothing. Chris Farley was never recognised in this country. Tommy Boy and his Saturday Night Live stuff was great.<br />BC: He was great but they encouraged him to feel about as bad about himself as possible. Hollywood is very cruel to the misfits.<br />JG: Have you considered acting?<br />BC: (smiles) Yes but I haven't had any offers.<br />MBB: You've been asked to be in a couple of movies.<br />BC: Not Hollywood movies. "Musical influences?" Isn't it obvious? You've heard the record, you can tell what I listen to. The classics. Classic nouveau. (as Shepherd reappears from buying his computer stuff). "What effect will the year 2000 computer bug have?" I think they're going to work that one out frankly.<br />MBB: I'm a little worried about the phone company.<br />BC: Utility bills may be confused.<br />MBB: They have so much trouble right now before the computers have even done anything.<br />BC: I actually think the world wide depression and economic crisis are going to be a bigger problem than this bug. What is my idea of the perfect Continuous Cash Flow System? To borrow $100 dollars from you and then take her (points to Monica) out to dinner, assuming that she was a complete stranger, do you know what I mean? So it's like, who loses? Okay, you lose $100, but she gains and I'm just a catalyst. I figured morally that would allow me to have the excitement of the lifestyle that I craze, without any of the guilt or obligation of having, like, a Porsche. But anyway, I've abandoned the CCFS because I can't maintain a network of friends and other humans. When you have the CCFS going people avoid you. You have to constantly meet new people. That's the sad thing about being a parasite, you always end up killing the host. That's what the song Baby Man is about. Women are easy to sponge off of. That men do it is depressing. "Is it true that I'm 5 foot 1?" Actually I'm 5 foot 4.<br />JG: You're 5 foot 4! So am I! (then I remember I'm actually 5 foot 6).<br />BC: Congratulations, we're the same height (Bobby and Jason high-five). There we go!<br />JG: Male bonding!<br />BC: (Starts reading the mailout about Bobby written by Southern press person Jeff Prinsloo, upon which my questions are typed). This is a good point from Jeff "Vanilla was like a cross between Sigue Sigue Sputnik and Lake of Dracula, they were awful!". "After just saying hi to Monica Bou Bou she accused me of giving her shit. I like her". Jeff Prinsloo is the most paranoid man in the world! (Bobby starts laughing) This is good (of Coldman, Bobby's drummer) "I guess he used to play drums in Rome. Not much to say about him other than he reminds me of the biker guy in the Village People. Sunglasses and leather".<br />JG: Have you been managing to get satisfactory changing rooms and riders?<br />AS: For the most part . It's interesting that people's attitudes to crack in the parts of Europe we've been to so far seem to be way out of whack with the way things are in real life. I don't know if people don't have any access to crack here or if the crack is different here or something like that. You mention that here and people freak out. You have the conception that it's an alley-sweeper of a drug right? I don't understand it all, it's totally different in the US. It would be nice if you could get crack on your rider but people don't seem to want to do that.<br />BC: (still laughing and reading Jeff's press release) "Self-amputated ring finger". That guy!<br />JG: It's a strange rumour, who started it?<br />BC: I was telling Weasel that I wanted to cut my finger off and then Weasel extended it to that I already had done it. I'm gonna have to tape this finger down tonight cos this guy's coming to the show and he's going to be really upset. He actually very directly asked, "So you're not lying about this ring finger?", and when a guy's on the phone I'm<br />not gonna say, "Yes, I’m lying". I'm gonna say, "No, of course not!"<br />JG: I just remembered a really frightening thing. When I was at school this boy, Lee Patrick, had his ring finger chewed off by his pet weasel (I remember now, it was actually a Ferret called Freddy. Vicious, vicious little fella). That's a bit of a coincidence. So is the Chicago scene really good then?<br />BC: We never think of it as being good but when we look at what else is out there it seems like it, well, can't be that bad. It's better than L.A., I dunno, it's been very good to me.<br />JG: So is England living up to your preconceptions?<br />BC: Actually it's turned out a lot better. The show last night was really a lot of fun. It was packed.<br />JG: What's in your set at the moment? Is it a mixture of the two albums?<br />BC: Yeah, it's a mixture of the two albums and we've got some new songs which haven't been released. Basically I wanted to include more covers but we weren't able to work those out. We've got a repertoire of around 23 songs right now so we alternate.<br />JG: What covers are you out to do then?<br />BC: I do a really nice version of Without You, which was made famous by Harry Nilsson (and Mariah Carey's version didn't hurt it), but it's actually written by the guys in Badfinger. (Quietly sings) "I can't live if living is without you". It's a classic song. My version is very touching. I like the really desperate love songs.<br />JG: Do you think they make songs like that these days?<br />BC: (sighs) No, they don't. That's the next thing I want to do, go into that territory of painfully embarrassing desperate love songs. Stuff that makes you just... drop. I'm interested in shock music, y'know? Noise is not shocking any more. What I'm trying to do is use the melody and harmony in song writing to surprise people. Cos I've already done all the noise shit. Maybe I'll get back to it later or something.<br />JG: How far do you hope to take this music then?<br />BC: To the top. To the toppermost of the poppermost. Why not? I mean, I've got to go as far as I can go.<br />JG: What's the major ambition then?<br />BC: To be able to do this all the time and not having to worry about other things. I've done a lot of different things, some of them have pretty unpleasant. I've wasted a lot of time working. You understand.<br />JG: I do, yeah.<br /><br />(originally featured in NO PICTURES issue 10)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270395540744303?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703939560677012004-12-10T10:38:00.001-08:002004-12-14T12:45:08.633-08:00MOBY <br /> <br />Moby tapped into the rock dance crossover as well as anyone. Human Rights was fun if flawed. His hardcore versions of all time rock classics saw fitting Sabbath and Hendrix into minute long shots of adrenalin. Had Human Rights reflected this more it without doubt would have been better. As far as I know Wonder Bread, such a song, has never been released. That period seems to have finished for now as a return to chart friendly dance has occurred. A Frequent feature on soundtracks here are XXX words from Moby. <br /> <br />Please describe your time/periods with Flipper and Mission Of Burma <br />With Flipper - 2 days in 1983. With Mission Of Burma - never. I just like them. <br /> <br />Have you now reverted permanently back from guitar music to solely dance orientated? <br />No. I don't see any reason to like one type of music at the exclusion of another. <br /> <br />Does the prospect of a new millennium excite or scare you? <br />I find it hard to get worked up over a thousand year period on a planet that's five billion years old. <br /> <br />What first made you take up electronic music in preference to music you had previously played? <br />Megalomania. Cool sounds. Hip hop. <br /> <br />What do you think of the Prodigy? <br />I've known them for eight years. Nice guys. They make the world of pop music much more interesting. <br /> <br />How do you relax? <br />I procrastinate. <br /> <br />What's your best feature? <br />Humility. <br /> <br />What's your main flaw? <br />Arrogance. <br /> <br />How important is humour in your life? <br />Vitally important. <br /> <br />Have you been or could you be corrupted? <br />I probably have been, but I don't fully understand what it means to be corrupted. <br /> <br />Do you believe in putting subliminals in your music? <br />If I could figure out how to do it I would. <br /> <br />Highlight of your career to date? <br />Having Bono kiss my hand. <br /> <br />Last album you listened to? <br />Massive Attack - Mezzanine <br /> <br />Closest you've ever come to death? <br />Almost being shot in a nightclub. <br /> <br />Is America racist? <br />I find it hard to generalize about a country of 250 million people, all of whom come from quite different cultural backgrounds. So yes and no. But more no than yes when you give people a chance. <br /> <br />originally appeared in NO PICTURES issue 10 <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270393956067701?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703914152706212004-12-10T10:38:00.000-08:002004-12-14T12:47:11.040-08:00MIKE WATT <br /> <br />From one of the best bands on one of my favourite labels, Mike Watt was the bassist in for the amazing Minutemen. First hearing the Minutemen was something shocking for me, I at first found it so hard to believe that such a band would tour with Black Flag. Each Minutemen song is short but filled with more dynamics than most songs twice their size. <br /> <br />Hi, how and where are you? <br />Getting ready for another u.s. tour that starts sep 21. It'll be 52 gigs in 55 days. I'm in San Pedro, California right now - that's where I'm based. <br /> <br />Ball Hog And Tugboat's artwork was very wrestling themed/inspired. Are you a fan and, if so, who is the best wrestler you've ever seen? <br />My favorite was Don Muraco. I really dug him and his spiel. he also invented the piledriver. <br /> <br />Did the Beastie Boys rip off the Minutemen on Cooky Puss? <br />What? like Coltrane said: "music is a big reservoir." <br /> <br />How did your collaboration with J Mascis come about? <br />I just asked him! He's very cool people. <br /> <br />Have you recently worked with Money Mark? <br />Yes, along w/Steve Perkins as Broke Dick Dog we covered a James Brown tune for a tribute record to his 65th birthday. It's called "Ssssssh (For A Little While.)" <br /> <br />How are your knees holding out? <br />OK. The bike riding has made them much stronger. They still ache big time in the wet cold though. <br /> <br />Will Ciccone Youth ever record again? <br />Don't know about that. I got Madonnabes though and we're doing a split 7" w/the Ziggens (long beach band on skunk records) soon. <br /> <br />Of all the Minutemen men cover versions, which have liked most? <br />Nels Cline doing "West Germany" was pretty good. <br /> <br />What was the most requested and best performed song on the punk rock karaoke? <br />"Minor Threat" by Minor Threat. Great song. <br /> <br />I read the transcript of your on-line interview. It looked like hard work. What was it like to do? <br />Not hard at all. I started typing in the 8th grade. I'll be 41 december 20th. <br /> <br />Is Kira up to anything musically? Has she any current bands going? <br />She's editing sound for movies now in Burbank. We're gonna do another dos record (fourth one) for Kill Rock Stars when we get time. <br /> <br />What's Pedro like these days? <br />Too many track homes going up but the town still has it's good things. Lots of cliffs, ocean, docks, parks and beach to keep things real. I love riding my bike around the coast each moring. I do over twenty miles. I wrote my opera on the bike. <br /> <br />For the purposes of trainspotting, could you please list every band you have ever played in? <br />the bright orange band <br />trog <br />reactionaries <br />minutemen <br />dos <br />sacharrine trust (one record) <br />minuteflag <br />fIREHOSE <br />crimony <br />ciccone youth <br />madonnabes <br />porno for pyros (some of one record and a few tours) <br />mike watt and the crew of the flying saucer <br />mike watt and the black gang crew <br />mike watt and the black gang <br />banyan <br />li'l pit <br />broke dick dog <br />wylde ratttz <br /> <br />I saw your comments on Coltrane and Mingus. How come a lot of you punk guys are into jazz? <br />Well, we got turned on to the bebop stuff when we got into punk and we related the two very close. it sounded like chaos and passion to us at the time. please remember we did not grow up w/jazz and it was very new to us like the punk scene that was growing all around us. I really like the freedom and voice of coltrane's stuff. I went to his grave a couple months ago in long island, ny. took the train there from manhattan. I laid on the grass on top of him thinking of what he was thinking when he <br />made a record. probably didn't give a shit about being mersh (commercial). just wanted to get beyonder. he's a big inspiration to me. I dig mingus too, look what he did for the bass in the band - actually led it! <br /> <br />Have you heard any Charles Gayle? And if so what do you think? <br />I saw a gig of his in West L.A. and dug it. kind of tripped out when he went on his spiels. had a great bass player w/him too. Thurston took me and knew the whole deal. he's so knowledgeable about so many different kinds of musics. I really dig him for turning me on to all kinds of things. <br /> <br />What were you getting at specifically when you did Bob Dylan Wrote Propaganda Songs? <br />I was afraid of what folks would thing of my songs and that they would somehow come out sounding sort of one dimensional but then I thought of growing up listening to bob dylan's early tunes and then feeling ok about it. I know that sounds insane but that's where I was back in 1982. In a way I'm still there. <br /> <br />What did you think of Rollins' Get In The Van book? <br />I like hank very much and think the parts I've read of the book are really funny - they bring back memories. for all the hell we went through though I'm very much glad we got to do everything we did. he makes it out to be pretty intense and it was. just remember there was lots of laughing all along the way. <br /> <br />Do you think you'll be doing a book? <br />I've been approached by many people about this but I don't think it's the time yet to do one. <br /> <br />Do you like England? <br />Yes, there's some interesting things about it and some great folks. It's very easy to be negative about any land and you gotta see the good from the shit. my early days of punk were very influenced by english bands like "the pop group" and "wire" and for that I'm eternally grateful. I only got to do one gig there last europe tour (march - april '98) and that was in london. the english division of sony would not put my opera out. this hurt me much. when I play england I always play scotland too. the name watt is scottish and my father's side's distantly related to james watt, the inventor. in fact my pop's name is james watt but everyone called him by his middle name, dick. <br /> <br />What bands are you currently into? <br />I saw Sleater-Kinney and dug some of that. Same w/Bikini Kill and Team Dresch. I like Nomeansno right now too. Always will dig Beefheart, Roky Erickson, Television and Richard Hell. Dig Creedence too! <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />You asked some good questions, thanks! <br /> <br />(originally appeared in NO PICTURES issue 10) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270391415270621?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703892180389052004-12-10T10:37:00.002-08:002004-12-14T12:50:15.630-08:00Three Second Kiss <br /> <br />My favourite record of 1998 was probably Three Second Kiss's second album Everyday Everyman. For me it contains elements of everything that is good in alternative rock come the end of this century. It easily slots in with the current trends but doesn't get bogged down sticking to any specific concepts. Moments of joy felt like Shellac's abrupt math, Fugazi's straightforward energy and passion and the perfect melody of Slint but it also sounds so fresh and original. On his first hearing my friend likened them to Bob Tilton. <br /> <br />Some of the questions are by Sergio (guitar player), some others by Massimo (a real few word, spoken or written, man) and the rest by Lorenzo (deeeerrrrummer) <br /> <br />What's your lineup? <br />We are an essential three piece. Massimo plays the bass and sings, better he tries to.., Sergio is the guitar player and Lorenzo beats the drums. <br />Where are you from? <br />The official band's base is BOLOGNA even if nobody of us was born there. I (Lorenzo) live at about 30 km from Bologna, Sergio is from Senigallia, a beautiful town nearby the Adriatic sea in the centre of Italy, and Massimo from Crotone, which is situated in the extreme south of Italy nearby the sea. We all met in Bologna cause of the university, which is famous for being a collector of all Italian (and often European) guys gravitating around arts. <br />Can we have a brief history of the band? <br />Three Second Kiss start on April 1993. We have released two works on CD, the first - about June 1996 - is "For Pain Relief", out for a small label (Lollypop rec.), which has got enthusiastic reviews in many Italian magazines and fanzines, and has been played also by John peel. The second, just released in May 1998, is "Everyday Everyman" recorded and engineered by Iain Burgess and produced by Wide records, the most important Italian independent label. "Everyday Everyman" is distributed in Europe via Southern records, London. Since our first days together we immediately started touring Italy. We have played about a 100 gigs and supported bands such as Surgery, Come, Uzeda, Blonde Redhead, Shellac and June of '44. <br />Who are your influences? <br />Probably 30 years of rock music !! It's so difficult for us to catch this side of our relations with music. Everyone in the band has his own influences. Actually we like so much the new American sounds, the true spirit and live attitude of bands that came out of touch and go, Dischord, Trance syndicate, Domino, skin graft...but you know, it's a limitation cause we have a full range background. <br />What have you released so far record wise? <br />1996 For Pain Relief CD Lollypop Rec <br />1997 "I cried you didn't listen" comp. Gamma pop rec. <br />1998 Everyday Everyman CD Wide Rec. <br />What is the music scene like in Italy? <br />very interesting in the last two or three years. In the 80's the scene was so provincial, just a dead copy of England or USA staff. Now the bands try to explore a personal approach to rock music, evolving a new free form of songwriting. We appreciate lots of things that are comin' up from Sicily and Catania in particular. It's great what the human and musical influence (should we say "guide"?) of a band like Uzeda, can do to the intentions and attitudes of young bands. <br />Who are your favourite Italian bands? <br />We love many bands you won't find on any international and Italian magazine, but that are quite good. here some of them: Uzeda (actually they're on every kind of mag. and named as the best alternative rock band in Italy ) Laundrette, Plank, jerica's, 100%, One dimensional man etc... <br />What has been your most memorable gig? <br />It's not pretentious, really... but we try to be memorable in every gig we play. It doesn't matter how many people are in the venue. We are a live band, and we respect our audience. Anyway, the tour with the June of '44 was great and so emotional, especially the day in Florence...so many people, that the club was exploding! <br />Which band has been the most fun to play a show with? <br />We've always played with bands we hold in high esteem. So we have to say that every show we had with Blonde Redhead or Uzeda or Shellac or June of 44 or anyone else, has been absolutely important for us and funny. <br />Would you describe yourselves as emo-core? <br />Well, like most bands, we don't like any label. Emo-core? We don't have that background of experience. We just intend to constantly balancing emotional and physical tension, fully exploring the intensity and the potentialities of each single instrument and emphasising the geometries and sound puzzles. <br />Why do you sing in English instead of Italian? <br />We play rock music and we consider English the perfect language for it, sharp and effective at the same time. It's also important to express yourself in a global language, not circumscribing your music to any frontier. <br />Have you been to America? <br />No never. But it'll be very soon (hope so) <br />You took your name from a Hayes Censorship Code ruling, how did you find out about it? <br />Massimo studies at the Cinema University in Bologna and by chance in a documentary film we've heard about it. This thing impressed us so much. We can't stand anything created just to limit creativity. <br />How did you find out your tracks had been played on John Peel? And how did you react? <br />Oh, it's been a nice surprise. John Peel has been so kind and sent us a fax. Then a friend of us gave us the tape of that BBC radio show. <br />What was it like working with Ian Burgess? <br />He is really a good sound engineer with many years of experience and if you remember the first big black records you should understand. You can say he is the father of the Steve Albini school. We recorded "Everyday Everyman" in a Sicily 70's studio, and although that wasn't his studio and equipment, he made a great work. We wanted to catch our live sound at his best and he did. <br />We really enjoyed to spend four days with him, eating, drinking, laughing....a significant experience. This is what a recording session should always be, not only a work relationship. <br />Do you play many shows with Uzeda? <br />Everytime it's possible. We are close friends and their Management "coop Indigena" is also our management. They are unique, great musicians and loveable persons. They help us to grow up and give us the opportunity to play with overseas bands. we are a family and we are proud to be their friends. <br />Have you played any shows in England/Britain yet? (if not you should) <br />Not yet, but as for USA we wish we'll be up there soon. <br />Would you teach me some Italian swear words please? (fuck, shit etc) <br />Iain Burgess' favourite swear word (not so ugly after all) was ...BASTARDO. absolutely perfect for driving', shows, soccer matches; and so international that everybody from most parts of the planet can get it. Anyway come to Italy if you wish, you'll learn a lot. <br />What is the music press like in Italy? <br />very provincial, sometimes they copy what's on the American or UK magazines. But anyway there are few but intelligent journalists. <br />Where are you now? <br />We're in Bologna. Trying' to transform the hot humid air into good vibrations for new songs. <br />What is the happiest event you have ever witnessed? <br />What a question! Musical event? Probably June of '44 show in Florence. <br />Favourite album of all time? <br />No, don't ask us to make a selection!....it's impossible to us...we like Gang of Four, Pere Ubu, Devo, Red Crayola, Bastro, Brainiac, Gastr del Sol, Fugazi, Slint, Shellac.....and many others, too many. <br />Who is your favourite Simpsons character? <br />Massimo: Santa's Little Helper, absolutely! <br />Lorenzo: Itchy and Scratchy (Italian version is: Grattachecca e Fichetto!!!!) <br />Have you got any future releases planned? <br />After a long period plenty of events, we're now planning rehearsal sessions, trying to set some new stuff for a third work (maybe in 1999), and maybe a split with other bands. <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 10) <br /> <br />link to www.gammapop.com/threesecondkiss <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270389218038905?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703869987635682004-12-10T10:37:00.001-08:002004-12-14T12:48:51.026-08:00El Hombre Trajeado <br /> <br />Dead impressed with El Hombre Trajeado. Each single is as delightful as the other and the album promises a ton. They sound like a clearer Tortoise with Mike Watt-esqe, Minutemen-esqe routes. Hubby took the time........ <br /> <br />What's your lineup? <br />Stef on drums, Stevie on bass, Ben squeeks 'n' beeps and Hubby (me) guitar and mumbles. <br /> <br />How long have you been going? <br />About 2 years as a 3 piece and 6 months with Ben. <br /> <br />Who are your influences? <br />The Black Dog, Man Or Astroman?, Minutemen, DJ Shadow, Ganger, Broadcast, Squarepusher, Rush (but don't ask), Slint, Kitchener.... <br /> <br />What records have you put out so far? <br />Moonunit Manual/Logo 7", Nofo split 7" with Lungleg, Like Quicksand split 7" with The Karelia. <br /> <br />Who freaks you out? <br />In a good way: Maria. In a bad way: Darth Vader. <br /> <br />What was it like playing without a stage at the Brighton Crawl? <br />Not unusual, although Ben was a bit close for comfort. <br /> <br />And what were the "Chips and Cheese" there like? <br />Pretty rocking though a bit skimpy on the old vinegar. <br /> <br />How are you involved with Flotsam &amp; Jetsam? <br />I set it up! (with a little help from my friends of course.......) <br /> <br />Do you have other jobs? <br />I'm a concert promoter (from King Tut's Wah Wah Hut up to T In The Park). Stef delivers auto parts, Stevie's at uni and Ben does nothing in particular. <br /> <br />Is it true that you do all your own stunts? <br />Ask Stevie, he's the one that broke his wrist yesterday skateboarding. <br /> <br />Are you South American? <br />Only in my head. <br /> <br />What does Trajeado mean? <br />It means "suited" although El Hombre Trajeado can be interpreted as "the man in the suit". <br /> <br />What was your most memorable gig? <br />The last one, no long term memory you see. <br /> <br />Describe the El Hombre live experience? <br />Mellifluous. <br /> <br />Are as many people in Scotland on Heroin as Trainspotting would suggest or did Irvine Welsh and Danny Boyle give your country a bum rap? <br />Yes, as Trainspotting pointed out that there is only small groups of the population, mostly situated in housing schemes, just like any other major city. <br /> <br />What's the best thing about Glasgow? <br />Deep fried Mars Bars. <br /> <br />Rangers or Celtic? <br />Partick Thistle. <br /> <br />What are your songs about? <br />There is no hidden agenda in the lyrcis, what you hear is what you get. <br /> <br />How did you get into music? <br />By default I would have been an astronaut but I'm colourblind. <br /> <br />Describe each of these bands in a sentence: <br /> <br />Glue <br />Too fast, too jerky, too clever and way too smelly. And don't ever mention the 96 Europeon tour. Ever. <br /> <br />DP l'Odd <br />Belgium thrash with myself, Vic (Pink Kross), Kenny (Eska) and punk rock session muso extrordinaire, Rat. <br /> <br />Me, Hubby and Thom <br />My first band, not very good, sounded like Minutemen circa late 70s done very badly, although this is where Stevie came in. <br /> <br />Nostril <br />One practice, one 7", two gigs. A bit of fun with Jer (Dawson), myself, Richie (Dawson, Fenn, PH Family) and Simon (Currl, Hernandez). Sounded like the exact mathematical equation of a large man falling down a flight of stairs. <br /> <br />You missed out Thermoderm. Me, Stuart (Ganger), Martin (Ganger) and Jason (Streheads). One 12" EP on Soul Static Sounds, you should check it out, I think you'll like it. <br /> <br />What pisses you off? <br />Bass players breaking their wrist 5 weeks before album recording commences. <br /> <br />What will you be doing with Guided Missile? <br />Two 7"s, One LP. <br /> <br />Can you fit four 7"s into one mailer? <br />Is this Possible? <br /> <br />How do you relax? <br />I can't remember, it's been a long time....... <br /> <br />McDonalds: Good or Bad? <br />No question, rocking. <br /> <br />Is the music industry dying? <br />Just snoozing. <br /> <br />What are accountants? <br />I woud have thought that you would have figured that one out by now! <br /> <br />Do you believe in putting subliminals in your music? <br />Always. <br /> <br />If you were making Soylent Green, which band would you use? <br />Symposium, though it would taste very bitter. <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />Keep up the good work, I'll give you a call when we need an accountant! <br /> <br />(originally appeared in NO PICTURS issue 10) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270386998763568?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703848282623882004-12-10T10:37:00.000-08:002004-12-14T12:47:57.703-08:00BILL DING <br /> <br />I first heard Bill Ding on John Peel, and they (not he) stood out for not only the ribtickling name but strong <br /> <br />Hi how are you and where are you? <br />Doing great. Currently, I'm in front of the computer in the Hefty office and I'm finally getting around to your questions. 10:30pm <br /> <br />Why have Bill Ding called it quits? <br />It's not easy to come up with a simple answer to that, but maybe I can sum it up. Dan and I had always been different from each other (backrounds in music, lifestyle, etc.), but our enthuisiasm for music held us together. Our differences also added an interesting variable for collaboration. We started the group in high school (although we didn't realease a record for some time after) and I think it was a nice break from school, which we both had a lack of interest in. After time (2 to 3 years later) our lifestyles began to clash more and more. I felt that our differences also began to affect our music. Dan was thriving to be the rock star and I was striving to be the family man behind the controls. I eventually decided that I wanted to focus on a new solo project (Slicker) and discussed it with Dan. Although there were some bad feelings to begin with, it has since resolved itself. Dan and I talk to each other from time to time and there has been no need for animosity. <br /> <br />What did you release during Bill's lifetime? <br />In chronological order... <br />"Just a Nick in the Car Door" b/w "Wash" 7" (HEFTY RECORDS) <br />"And the Sound of Adventure" full-length (HEFTY RECORDS) <br />"Make It Pretty" b/w "Know It Right" 7" (HEFTY RECORDS) <br />"Trust in God, but Tie Up Your Camel" full-length (HEFTY RECORDS) <br />"Horrendously Named" EP (SMILEX RECORDS) <br />We also contributed tracks to four separate compilations. <br /> <br />Who are your influences? <br />Well, I have many, but I'm not sure how they reflect on the music. Jimmy Giuffre, Grant Green, Idris Muhammed, Eric B. and Rakim, The Bomb Squad, Public Enemy, James Brown, King Tubby, Scientist, Derrick Harriot, Kraftwerk. More recently Autechre, Aphex Twin, John McEntire. <br /> <br />What kind of following did/do you get? <br />I don't think our following was/is too large, but as far as what kind of following it is, it's hard to gauge since we never went on the road. We never had the chance to get feedback from people who were listening to our records. Touring was another sore spot between Dan and I. He wanted to tour, I didn't. I didn't think it would make sense. First, I don't think I'm much of an entertainer and second, we wrote all of our songs in the studio, never practiced. I thought it would be a step backwards for the quality of the music. He wanted to rock and I can't blame him. <br /> <br />How would you pigeonhole Bill Ding's music? <br />Using the word pigeonhole makes it sound like a trick question. We do what we can to avoid a catagory. I mean, in simple terms it's a rock group. It's not jazz, hip hop, lo-fi or funk although critics have found that it has qualities of all. I like that our sound was hard to grasp, but at the <br />same time its lack of bearing can turn people off. <br /> <br />Do you run/work for Hefty? <br />I run Hefty out of Chicago and have just opened an office in the UK. <br /> <br />Describe what kind of label Hefty is <br />A label that take things seriosly and doesn't limit itself. I will put out just about anything that is interesting enough for me to get excited about and get behind. I do try to unify the label with its graphic design, quality and feel. I hope to keep growing. <br /> <br />What have you planned for the future? <br />We have five records set for release: <br /> <br />Euphone "Breaking Parole" EP - follow up to the self-titled release on <br />Hefty. One-man band (Ryan Rapsys) from Chicago. This record features some <br />help from Bill Dolan of 5ive Style/Heroic Doses. <br /> <br />Slicker "Confidence in Duber" Full-length - My solo project. <br /> <br />Chisel Drill Hammer Self-titled EP - Debut record. <br /> <br />Ghosts &amp; Vodka 7" - features member of Cap n Jazz, Joan of Arc and Tetsuo. <br /> <br />"Reach the Rock" soundtrack full-length - Soundtrack that features original <br />score by John McEntire with band tracks from Dianogah, The Sea and Cake, <br />Bundy K. Brown, Polvo and Tortoise. <br /> <br />What's the scene in Chicago like? <br />It's hard for me to say because I live here. Sometimes I'm surprised to hear that Chicago has a scene. When you are in the middle of a scene you don't think of it in the grand sense. There is no doubt that great music comes from this city, some of the best in the world. Chicago has a rich <br />history in many styles (dance, blues, jazz, rock) and I think the younger musicians feed off it. I often take all of the our great music for granted. <br />More recently Tortoise has had a huge impact on Chicago and the rest of the rock world. Although their success has caused a slew of copy cats, there impact has opened the minds of many people. They brought a lot of influences to their music and I think it could have opened the palette that many other bands draw from. It also gave people a reason to look at some of <br />the other great music coming from Chicago. <br /> <br />Did you like Slint? <br />Yes. <br /> <br />Are you seductive people? Still? <br />Not particularly. Does in come through in our music? I think bizarre is a better description. <br /> <br />Why did you mean by the term Trust In God But Tie Up Your Camel? <br />It's an old middle eastern saying. Things haven't changed much. The only difference now is that we use Master Locks and Clubs instead of tying knots. <br /> <br />Do you own camels? <br />No, but I like to hump. <br /> <br />Are you a fan of John Hughes' films and if so which ones? <br />I'm too close to the movies to be a fan of any in particular. <br /> <br />This is going to sound really dumb but regarding the John Hughes' films Q. Are you actually related to him? Sorry to intrude. <br />Yup, very related... my dad. <br /> <br />Who's your favourite metal band? <br />Metal is not up my alley and never really has been. I'm actually of a hip-hop decent. <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />Hawks' in 99. Take good care and thanks for the interest <br /> <br />HEFTY RECORDS <br />1658 N. Milwaukee Suite 287 <br />Chicago, IL 60647 <br /><a href="http://www.heftyrecords.com">http://www.heftyrecords.com</a> <br /> <br />(originally appeared in NO PICTURES issue 10) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270384828262388?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703831055902892004-12-10T10:36:00.003-08:002004-12-14T12:52:13.690-08:00Simon Williams <br /> <br />He's been a writer for the NME. He's been a record label boss. He's been in my presense. <br />Fierce Panda is a hit or miss label but has put out some really stuff in its fairly brief history albeit with a handy link to the media. Can't I just say something nice about a music journalist? <br /> <br />Where/how/when did you start writing about music? Did you do a fanzine? <br />Did a fanzine called "Jump Away...Carlos Fandango" (don't ask). Did 5 issues and ended up at NME by mistake on 13.1.88 at a PWEI gig. Roughly speaking. <br /> <br />Whats going on with Steven Wells? <br />A hi-octane blend of joyful recklessness and senile dementia. Chap. <br /> <br />Whats the number one rule about running a record label? <br />Don't listen to anyone else - you'll never put anything out. <br /> <br />What was the first gig you went to? <br />Farmer's Boys/Higsons/Popular Voice - Lyceum October 1981. <br /> <br />What was the first record you bought? <br />"Jilted John" by Jilted John - 1978. <br /> <br />Which do you think is the best record label? <br />Most of them are crap but I like Chemikal Underground and anyone else who gets off their bottom to do something, like your good selves. <br /> <br />Better press: airplay or record review? <br />I'm Libran, so I'll have both in the same week, thank you. <br /> <br />CCTV or MTV? And why? <br />CCTV because it's far less repetitive and you don't see Courtney Love on it. Unless you're really unlucky... <br /> <br />Where is the future of music? <br />As ever, with good tunes just outside of Walthamstow. <br /> <br />Will you buy my car? <br />Is it a Fiat Panda? I like them. <br /> <br />Which is better: being a music journalist or record label boss thing? <br />Fewer people hate record label bosses, I suppose... <br /> <br />CDs or Vinyl? And why? <br />Both because I don't appear to have a complete stack system in any of my rooms, so I need to mix and match. <br /> <br />Who is the most abusive/intimidating person you've interviewed? <br />None has ever been "abusive" per se. All interviews are intimidating but I must say Scott Walker stands out as being particularly so. Turned out to be a smashing bloke though! <br /> <br />Where is the best place the NME has paid for you to go? <br />Reading or Glastonbury Festival - otherwise record companies always pay, I'm afraid. Once got a week in the Bahamas covering the Caribbean Music Festival. Also been taken to Japan, Australia, America, the continent and, of course, Walthamstow to do East 17. <br /> <br />Is it possible to like football and music? <br />Of course it is, unless you support Spurs... <br /> <br />Were you ever in a band? <br />Pythagoras States. They were worse than the name sounds, so I swiftly retired. <br /> <br />Who are the bands of the year so far? <br />Any guitar band that has avoided being dropped and any band who was dropped who actually wanted to be. Not Pythagoras States basically. <br /> <br />Death Before Disco? <br />Lord no! Death after the disco, when your tiny little head hurts. (NB: may have misinterpreted this question...) <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />Can I thank Hirameka Hi Fi for playing Club Panda? Loads of people really loved them and I had a smashing time. <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 10) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270383105590289?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703812837271042004-12-10T10:36:00.002-08:002004-12-14T12:53:39.113-08:00Warser Gate <br /> <br />From Nottingham here are the diverse Warser Gate. Kev Flynn (vocalist) answering on behalf of Warser Gate <br /> <br />Hi, how and where are you? <br />Not bad today. Could be better. It's the 2nd day back for me after the school holidays. Bit of a shock to the system. Myself and Rich live in Nottingham. Keith lives in Derby. Rich plays drums. Keith plays guitar for Warser Gate. <br /> <br />Who are your musical influences? <br />Jesus Lizard, Shellac, Can, Captain Beefheart, Sun City Girls, T.F.U.L. 282, Wing Tip Stoat, Polvo, The Grifters, Drive Like Jehu, Dead C, Camper Van Beethoven, Mission Of Burma and loads more. <br /> <br />What is Warser Gate like? <br />Skewed, twisted, warped, unhinged, chaos and disorder in a structured world of noise, collision, contagious, fucked up blues, pop, spontaneous, improvised, racket. <br /> <br />Whats the experience of Nottingham Rock City like? <br />A decade ago it was OK. Right now, mmmmh! Jesus Lizard play soon, so I'll make a return visit. <br /> <br />Who freaks you out? <br />Sun City Girls <br /> <br />How did you get to have a record released in Japan? <br />Initially a zine/label that released a cassette, then did an interview and is now releasing a song on a comp CD now and a further one at the end of the year. <br /> <br />Why do you do so many tape releases? <br />This we have now began to cut down, simply because we are getting more offers to do record releases. We've got so much material and its a great cheap way to get your music heard by people. <br /> <br />Are you friends with Bob Tilton? What do think of them? <br />Yeah, I know Allan and Neil. We bump into them occasionally, have a laugh and a drink. They're good live. I like them. <br /> <br />Forest or County? <br />Myself, I'm not bothered. Not really into football except internationals. Keith likes Wolves, Rich likes County. <br /> <br />Does Brian Clough still waddle about your manor? <br />Rich worships that guy, so of course. <br /> <br />Does the prospect of a new millennium excite or scare you? <br />Excites me because I'll be in New York, fingers crossed, with Rich and Keith. <br /> <br />Is the music industry dying? <br />God knows. Not for Warser Gate it appears. <br /> <br />What pisses you off? <br />Work. <br /> <br />What are accountants? <br />People in suits and calculators. <br /> <br />Describe the Warser Gate live experience <br />Totally off the wall, unhinged in your face guitars drill into you, drums pound your brain, vocals go crazy. Bizarre stuff. <br /> <br />Do you improvise live? <br />Yes, it plays an essential part of Warser Gate makeup. <br /> <br />Who would you like to play live with most? <br />Shellac, Jesus Lizard, Wing Tip Stoat, Sun City Girls. <br /> <br />Are you still recording weekly? <br />We record once a week without fail, usually between 3 to 7 songs weekly are laid down on our 4 track. Guaranteed. <br /> <br />Did you write the songs on the album together or was it a sort of pick n mix of songs spanning your career? <br />Yeah, a complete mix bag of tracks over a period of time. <br /> <br />Do you believe in putting subliminals in your music? <br />Who? Our music is pretty crazed at times. Try pigeonholing our sound, its difficult. It all comes naturally though and isn't forced or worked at. <br /> <br />Highlight of your career to date? <br />Ptolemaic Terrascope feature #22. A track on Ptolemaic Terrascope CD #25 called "Shut Eye". <br /> <br />Worst record ever made? <br />Something by Caroline Rainbow I expect. <br /> <br />Favourite song of your own? <br />"Shut Eye", "Long Made Designate" and "Karneek Temple". <br /> <br />Last band you saw live and what did you think? <br />Come at Leicester. Absolutely fantastic. Totally fucked up blues. Great. <br /> <br />Closest you've ever come to death? <br />Flying over the Grand Canyon in a small 8 seater, severe gales from nowhere. Scary stuff. I puked up. <br /> <br />Advice to live your life by <br />Make every day count. Don't let the bastard grind you down from "Saturday Night Sunday Morning". <br /> <br />If you were making Soylent Green, which band would you use? <br />Thinking Fellers Union Local 282. <br /> <br />Who's your favourite Simpsons character? <br />Bart! Then the squirty baby. <br /> <br />What are your future plans? <br />Hopefully an album on an Australian label with big distro who is interested in us. 2 7"ers by end of the year. Continue putting out songs all over the place etc. <br /> <br />Can you tell us a joke, please? <br />No, can't do it. Sorry! <br /> <br />(originally appeared in NO PICTURES issue 10) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270381283727104?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703800360618592004-12-10T10:36:00.001-08:002004-12-14T12:51:39.340-08:00FUGAZI <br /> <br />Most people have heard of Fugazi but in my opinion not enough people have actually heard Fugazi records. For me they are the most innovative and direct band on the planet. Much is made of their "anti music industry" stance, dishearteningly taking focus away from the actual musical content. It is a tragedy that this policy results in close to nothing is ever heard of them in this country as they refuse to speak to the mainstream music press. They're often compared to The Ruts, Gang Of Four and Crass but for me they are more the band that links Nirvana to Henry Rollins and vice versa. I first heard of Fugazi, reading Gina Arnold's Route 666 book intrigued by her tales of them and how she ditched watching Nirvana at Roskilde 92 to go see them play a club in Berlin. Any band capable of such exploits had (has) to be special. <br />Whether they like it or not, Fugazi is the flagship of Dischord Records (don't even bother trying to squeeze the Make Up into this equation). Dischord (as in DC, as in Washington DC) was started in late 1980 by Ian MacKaye (previously in the Slinkees, who played just one show) and Jeff Nelson of the Teen Idles when they released an eight song 7" by their own band, paid for from "seed money" earned from playing shows, some of which were with Bad Brains. It was recorded on four track and still sounds amazing to this day. Dischord's next release was a ten song 7" by State Of Alert (S.O.A.) who featured Henry Rollins. Next came MacKaye and Nelson's new band, the legendary Minor Threat. With another ten song 7" they inadvertantly started a whole movement called "Straight Edge" whereby teenagers would proudly profess to not drink, not smoke and not take drugs. Despite worryingly potentially being picked up like a trend and unnecessarily producing sheep mentality, it still provided a relief from posturing rock stars and fucked up role models. The EP contains Screaming At A Wall which the Beastie Boys have covered and were originally accused of being Minor Threat copyists in their hardcore beginnings. By the end of 1981 Dischord had released three more 7"s by Minor Threat, Government Issue (the Legless Bull EP containing probably my favourite hardcore songs ever in Religious Ripoff, Fashionite, Asshole and Bored To Death) and Youth Brigade. There is an amazing compilation CD of the first six 7"s called "1981: The Year In Seven Inchs" (DIS14) which has 48 tracks on. Dischord continues to release material by Washington DC bands and for its 100th release issued a previously unheard Teen Idles EP. The Beastie Boys have commented that Dischord Records has acted as an inspiration for Grand Royal. <br />Minor Threat split in 1983. Read the lyrics to Salad Days to pretty much understand the situation at that time and why they split up just as bigger (not necessarily better) things were seemingly approaching. Band members disagreed about what direction the band should go in. Brian Baker eventually ended up in, amongst others, Bad Religion. That was one direction. MacKaye's next band (direction) was Embrace and were a whole lot better than their current namesakes who probably don't even realise they're flogging a taken name. Embrace was basically Ian fronting Faith, replacing his brother Alex on vocals. Option described the band as "MacKaye's transistion from the tense impassioned songs of Minor Threat to Fugazi's more expanded sound". They produced one album (DIS24) before MacKaye's next stop and current position in Fugazi, also not forgetting the brief (and somewhat surprising) collaboration with Al Jourgenson, Pailhead. He also did some early production work on the Rollins Band. <br />Guy Picciotto and drummer Brendan Canty (a blood relation of the Make Up) played together in Rites Of Spring, One Last Wish and Happy Go Licky. Happy Go Licky and Rites Of Spring had the same band membership, with HGL being the latter to exist, but with an entirely different musical program. Happy Go Licky released a six song 12" on Picciotto's own Peterbilt label, played a total of 7 shows and split on New Year's Day in 1988, in the early days Guy was only a temporary member of Fugazi. A 21 track live album was released late last year jointly by Peterbilt and Dischord including the original six 12" tracks. Similarly Dischord has released has released a Rites Of Spring (DIS16) compilation of the couple of records it put out on Dischord in the 80s. Picciotto has produced and recorded a number of bands including Blonde Redhead and the Make Up and is also into film-making. The fourth member Joe Lally entered into punk later than the other band members, going to Rites Of Spring shows and touring with Beefeater as a roadie. <br />Fugazi was finally formed in 1986/7 by Ian and Joe. Brendan joined on drums and brought Guy along shortly after. Fugazi actually played their first show without Guy but, in his own words, "almost immediately after, I quickly insinuated my way into the group, singing backups and dancing for the first year then playing guitar from Repeater onwards". They actually played their first show in the fall of 1987. The self titled 7 song EP came out in 1988 and by the Margin Walker EP in 1989 Guy's position in the band was cast in rock. A single, 3 Songs, came out on Sub Pop in 1989 in limited form and on Dischord in unlimited form. Since, they have released five full length albums: Repeater (1990), Steady Diet Of Nothing (1991), In On The Kill Taker (1993), Red Medicine (1995) and End Hits (1998), all at mid price. Their only other release is the track, In Defense Of Humans, which is on the State Of The Union compilation (DIS32), although Reprovisional appears on a K Records IPU compilation, a convention they had an amazing time playing at. In 1992 Ian MacKaye appeared on a major label release, playing guitar on the Sonic Youth track Youth Against Fascism from the Geffen album Dirty. A documentary film made with Jem Cohen called Instrument featuring numerous shows with tour and studio footage came out in early 1999 along with a soundtrack album featuring demos, alternative takes and previosly unreleased songs. <br />With the co-operation of Tom and Matt heres an e-mail interview with Guy Picciotto. <br />How are you and what have you been up to recently?I am doing quite well, enjoying an unseasonably cool breeze and a Brazilian soda. The last few months have been pretty action packed. In terms of Fugazi style band activity there has been alot going on. First off, in late May the End Hits album finally came out and we decided to emerge from a 9 month cocoon and play some live shows again. We went out and did a 2 week exploratory tour from DC to Chicago and it was really a killer. Though our drummer Brendan recently became a father and has intense familial obligations, we will still be going back out on and off for the rest of the year. The loose plan is to do some more US and Canadian dates in July and later in the fall (October or so) we will do a full European tour. We also have lately renewed our work on a Fugazi documentary style motion picture collaboration with filmmaker Jem Cohen (the guy who also has worked with us on the graphics for our last 3 records). I'm going to be spending much of the next month in New York with him trying to pare down the overly epic 3 hour version we have now to a more viewer friendly 2 hours. In addition outside of the band I've been doing production and engineering work for a variety of bands including Blonde Redhead, the Cranium, Make Up and Quix-o-tic. Needless to say, I've been a busy bee. <br />Why did you choose to be in a band?Well I first started playing in bands in the early 80's when I was around 14 years old. At the time the punk scene in Washington DC was really happening, the Bad Brains were playing, the Teen Idles were playing, there was a lot of activity and most of it was being done by really young kinds in their teens. The feeling I had was that I wanted in, I wanted to participate in the moment. Being in a band was the currency of exchange, it was the backdrop of all the hanging out, the shows, the creation of a community which in some form or another has persisted to this day. The first groups I was in were kind of unfocused, more an excuse to go-off than to actually make a statement but by the time I was 17 and had kind of gotten the hang of it I realized what a powerful and cathartic outlet playing music was and how it had become almost biologically necessary for me to express myself in that way. Five bands later, I'm still here. <br />What effect would you like your music to have on the listener?Quite honestly any effect will do. I am pretty happy if people actually spend their time listening to the albums or coming to the shows. Its like the physical laws of electricity, you've got to have both poles to create any action. <br />What are your touring plans for 98? We haven't had the opportunity to see you live yet, how does a Fugazi show differ from the records?I guess I kind of already broached this one already but basically the concept is to go on less extensive, more baby friendly tours in sporadic impulses for the next year or so. We really do plan on hitting the UK this fall at some point. In the past we tended to really do pretty full coverage of every nook and cranny of the globe but now we will have to be a bit more efficient in terms of time expenditure and tighten up our geography. As for our live shows, we really consider the stage our true habitat. There we are able to fuck with the songs, stretch parts out and rewrite them in the moment. We never use a setlist so every show is completely different and everyone in the bad has to be ready at any time to play any song from any point in the band's history. Its very much a tight wire concept. <br />Over the last year you've recorded the Make Up and Blonde Redhead in your basement. What studio set-up have you got and who would you like to record next?The studio set-up we have has kind of morphed over the years. Initially it was a small 8 track operation composed of a bunch of gear Fugazi and our old sound engineer put together. More recently in cahoots with Juan Carrera (ex-Warmers and Slowdime Records Magnate) we expanded the equipment to include a 16 track deck and more outboard junk. Really its not any kind of pro set-up as its in the basement of my old group house but over the years it has served to record a lot of local bands from the Metamatics to Chisel to Make Up to Blonde Redhead. The latest stuff being worked on over there is a Cranium album which will be coming out on Slowdime and which is easily the most ambitious thing ever done at Pirate House, it is like an encyclopedia of manic angles. I'm also doing a Quix-o-tic tape which is Christina from Slant 6's new band (along with her sister Mira and a guy named Brendan). They really are amazing as well. As for future projects, I'm not ambitious with the studio, its really a very utilitarian concept of creating a place where local bands can record for dirt cheap and get their sounds out there. <br />Who are your favourite British bands of the present and past?Let's see, I like: the Zombies, the Small Faces, the Beatles, the Slits, Discharge, PIL, This Heat, Yummy Fur, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Gang Of Four, the Kinks, Wire, Alternative TV, LKJ. That's just a bunch off the top of my head. <br />Arpeggiator: have any of the band had any formal musical training?Not really. Well, Brendan did study a bit of theory and piano but it was pretty abbreviated exposure I think. Of course he did come up with that descending scale chord thing that Arpeggiator stemmed from so maybe he's more Mozarty then he let's on. <br />What was the last book you read?The prison letters of Antonio Gramsci and Don Delilo's "Underworld". <br />What was the last film you saw?Stephen Fry in "Wilde" and Kiarostami's "Taste Of Cherry" - both were great! <br />How's the film-making going? (Both the Jem Cohen film and your own Super 8 stuff)As I mentioned earlier we are really close to finishing the Fugazi project. We should have it completely edited by the end of June and the audio mixed in August so by year's end it should be available. We plan to release it as a video through Dischord and also strike a theater print to play on screen. As for my own personal Super 8 stuff, I haven't done anything since the two movies that showed at the ICA in London ("Silly Game" and "Please Cry"). I hope to finish up the trilogy in 16mm with a film tentatively entitled "Essential Oils" but I'm having a hard time scripting it (I have no narrative sense). <br />What are your views on the internet in general? (vague question)I'm kind of new to the whole thing so I'm going to reserve my opinion for the time being. I don't want to come off as an Amish technophobe..... <br />You've had considerable influence on loads of bands. Have you ever been namechecked by anyone you despise?I'm too vain to ever be offended by a tip of the hat, no matter how unsavory the tipper. Namecheck away! <br />Do any of Fugazi play in other bands or is it totally full-time?Fugazi does consume an inordinate amount of time but there have been side projects here and there. For a while Ian recorded in Pailhead. Brendan has played guitar and released records with a band called the All-Scars. Brendan and I have released stuff under the name Black Light Panthers on my own label called Peterbilt Records. I'm sure there are other things here and there but they escape me at the moment. <br />How many Paul Sky King tapes are there?I honestly have no idea. <br />Have you heard the rumour that you folks beat-up people who own TVs?That's a new one on me, though of course how could I deny it? Its alot better than the Hepatitis one or the drunk driving/murder one or the one that says we frown on the heating of homes as ethically compromised. <br />Does Charlie the accountant still dance (and make a spectacle) on stage with you?Nope, though he is featured in our upcoming film in all his glory. <br />What was playing the Lorton Correctional Facility like (other than playing to a bunch of hardened crims unaccustomed to the Fugazi sound or anything nearing it)?Some footage from this show will also be in our movie. Suffice to say it was a surreal event. <br />Finally, who's your favourite Simpsons character?To tie a bow on the interview, I'll say my favourite Simpson's character is the gossipy preacher's wife - there is something about the creepy angled cast of her eyes that gets me everytime. She is deeply evil. <br />Best of luck with the label and gigs - sounds like a positive flurry of activity. <br /><a href="http://www.dischord.com/">http://www.dischord.com/</a> <br /> <br />[taken from No Pictures 9] <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270380036061859?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703786000879642004-12-10T10:36:00.000-08:002004-12-14T12:50:57.683-08:00ROLLINS <br /> <br />Anyone who knows me, knows I go batshit for Henry Rollins. Issue one of No Pictures was practically all Rollins so its an obvious thrill to be able to include words from someone, in my opinion, so great. <br /> <br />Briefly: he started out in Washington DC coming from the same scene as Bad Brains, the Teen Idles and Minor Threat. His first band was State Of Alert (aka SOA). They put out one 10 song seven inch on Dischord. Next port of call was the legendary Black Flag from LA. His first release with them was on the devastating album Damaged. He was a Flag member from 81 to 86. The band changed regularly over that period and it is all covered in the award winning book Get In The Van. The Rollins Band formed shortly after Black Flag's demise. The new band consisted of guitarist Chris Haskett and the rhythm section Greg Ginn's other band Gone, bassist Andrew Weiss and drummer Sim Cain. Around 1993 Andrew Weiss left the band and later ended up joining Ween. His replacement was Melvin Gibbs formerly of New York No Wave bands The Decoding Society and Defunkt. In early 1999 Rollins disbanded the Rollins Band and is now recording musically with the band Mother Superior, who he has previously worked with in the producer capacity. <br /> <br />The Rollins Band has released Hot Animal Machine, Lifetime, Do It, Hard Volume, Turned On, The End Of Silence, Weight and Come In And Burn. Spoken word wise Rollins has released the live CDs: Big Ugly Mouth, Sweat Box, Live At McCabe's, Human Butt, The Boxed Life, Think Tank and a video Talking From The Box. Other spoken CDs are the Black Flag tour diary Get In The Van and the Howl-esque Everything as well as a CD of Black Coffee Blues readings. The recommended Black Flag records are Damaged and The First Four Years compilation, which Henry isn't on but he still says is probably the best Black Flag album. Also essential is the Henrietta Collins And The Wifebeating Childhaters EP, Drive By Shooting which comes on the Hot Animal Machine CD. Additionally there was a music project featuring himself and Andrew Weiss called Wartime and Rollins has contributed vocals with various acts ranging from Tool, the Bad Brains and Goldie. To date he has appeared in the movies: The Chase, Heat, Johnny Mnemonic and Lost Highway. <br /> <br />Heres an "activity interview" conducted by e-mail: <br /> <br />How are you and where are you? <br />Doing alright. Busy. In LA for a couple of months and then will be out for the rest of the year starting September. <br /> <br />What have been up to with the band this year? <br />Working on a solo record at the moment. <br /> <br />Have any of the other guys in the band been involved in any other projects? <br />I don't know. I am sure they are busy. <br /> <br />What's planned for 2.13.61? <br />Iggy Pop book. Jeffrey Lee Pierce lyric and prose book. Me: Black Coffee Blues II paperback and Solipsist out in July, BCB II is out in the fall. <br /> <br />Also what's coming up on 2.13CD? <br />Nothing I can confirm at this time. <br /> <br />What happened to Infinite Zero? <br />It's mine now. Rick (Rubin) got out. <br /> <br />When will you be returning to England again? <br />The fall. <br /> <br />Have your feelings towards this jolly ol' isle changed? <br />I like England very much. Could be the best audience for talking shows anywhere. I like to rip on the place but I always make sure to rip on America and myself as well. <br /> <br />Are further live spoken releases planned? <br />2 CD set called "Think Tank" will come out in September on Dreamworks. Video called "You Saw Me Up There" will come out as well. <br /> <br />I've heard you praise Lenny Bruce in the past. Have you ever caught any Bill Hicks albums? And if so, what did you think? <br />Bill Hicks is a god to me. He was brave and he was right. <br /> <br />Have you done any production work since the Mark Of Cain record? <br />Produced a band called Mother Superior, mixed a record by a band called The Sick. Sat in on the mixes for the new live Black Sabbath record, learning things and being a sounding board for the producer since I was at the show. Other than that, nothing. Offers that have come my way haven't held much interest to me. It's nothing I want to do very much of. Too much sitting. <br /> <br />Similarly have you worked with Modi recently? <br />Modi directed the new talking video. <br /> <br />There is word of future motion work, have you anything planned? <br />Just finished work in a Warners film called "Frost" and a small part in a couple of weeks for an indie thing here in LA and am reading some new scripts now. <br /> <br />What bands are you currently into? <br />Mother Superior. I like Jerry Cantrell's new record a lot. Been listening to a lot of Beatles boots. Listening to the new Slayer as I write this. I always check them out because while it might not be my favorite thing, you know they mean it. Other than that, I listen to a lot of old stuff. Contemporary music strikes me a little too tame for my liking. Looking forward to the new PJ Harvey record. <br /> <br />Who's your favourite Simpsons character? <br />I have seen the Simpsons like three times and don't know any of the characters really. <br /> <br />Do/did you like the music of Slint? <br />Don't know it. <br /> <br />What good books have you read lately? <br />Look Homeward Angel by Thomas Wolfe. Tender is the Night and This Side of Paradise by F Scott Fitzgerald. <br /> <br />Do you like John Peel? <br />Every day. <br /> <br />Have you seen James Parker's biography on yourself? <br />Why the hell would I read a book about myself? I don't want to know anything about it. <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />I did your interview now you send me a couple of jars of Coleman's mustard! <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 9) <br /> <br />(<a href="http://www.two1361.com">www.two1361.com</a>) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270378600087964?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703769871871162004-12-10T10:35:00.003-08:002004-12-14T13:08:19.086-08:00Peter Bagge <br /> <br />In the Batcave that is Planet Ace comics, Colchester's only ever comic shop serves its purpose by occassionally stocking the odd comic or two from Seattle's Fantagraphics Comics. The big three were/are HATE, Eightball and Love & Rockets. HATE and L&amp;R have now called it quits but Eightball has just put out its first issue in a year. HATE is/was produced by Mr Peter Bagge. He was born in New York in 1956 and was influenced by MAD magazine and Loony Toons. Initially he self-published 3 issues of a tabloid called Comical Funnies with John Holmstrom and several other friends in 1980-81 and did a one shot comic in 1982 called Wacky World with Ken Weiner. Additionally he did a lot work for various porno mags and kiddie magazines (his words). His next work included was included in PUNK magazine. And then came taking over WEIRDO comic from Robert Crumb, without doubt the most famous alternative cartoonist of this era. Bagge's book for Fantagraphics, NEAT STUFF, was the first place to feature the Bradleys. He ended the book with issue 15 to go onto the all Bradley HATE. NEAT STUFF 15 ended with wayward eldest son Buddy Bradley leaving home moments before being thrown out. We rejoined him in HATE 1 relocated and settled into Seattle when, by coincidence, it was at its hottest and most happening according to the worlds media. HATE ran for 30 near perfect issues following the lives of an alternative Gen X to the stereotype Gen X (or perhaps just a version closer to the truth). Buddy, his pals (Stinky, George) and gals (Lisa and Valerie) and a cast of thousands battled through life in the nineties. At the height of nuttiness he and Lisa left Seattle to return to New Jersey to live with his parents at the end of issue 15. Issue 16 saw the comic relocated in New Jersey and now in colour! This move caused much controversy within the letters pages. It also now contained new darker content. Buddy and Lisa appeared to become more hopeless than ever, as moving home caused the rest of the Bradley family to return to the spotlight. During this period, effectively the second half of HATE's life, Buddy would start the collectors emporium he always dreamed he would as his partner in crime would fight a heroin addiction, his dad passed away, and Lisa would freak out on Prozac (giving her wind) to end up selling pot, hitting Marilyn Manson gigs and turning lesbian on Buddy, all delivered deviously dark and funny as hell. To an extent its all come together with issue 30. Buddy and Lisa (now all gone chubby) finally got back together with another Bradley seemingly on the way. Its all way too adult to continue, and spoiling for anyone still on the slacker trip. This is the genius of Peter Bagge. <br /> <br />In the words of Robert Crumb himself "I could count on one hand the number of cartoonists whose work is as strong." <br /> <br />Hi how are you? <br />Fine. <br /> <br />Will we ever see Buddy Bradley again? <br />Probably but right now I can't say where, how or when. <br /> <br />Will you now be returning to black and white comics? <br />Not as a rule. And I never entirely left black and white comics, since much of the back up features in HATE were in black and white. That's a very loaded question Jason, since it implies that there's a big difference in terms of attitude and content between black and white and color comics. Traditionally there has been of course but there's no real reason for it to be this way. <br /> <br />What was it like working with Adrian Tomine of Optic Nerve? <br />He was great to work with, a great guy and a really hard worker. <br /> <br />What is R Crumb really like? <br />The movie gives a pretty accurate idea of what he's like. He's moody and cantankerous at times but basically a really dependable, well meaning person. I think very highly of him. <br /> <br />Have you been in negotiations with MTV to bring Buddy Bradley to TV? I think Daria is cool but Buddy could never be toned down to a recognisable level. <br />I was. I spent most of last year developing HATE into a TV show for MTV but they killed it in December. You think Daria is cool? Jesus! That show is the fucking WORST! <br /> <br />Was it a hard decision to leave the Action Suits? <br />No. It was a hard decision to join them! I just didn't have the time for them at all so I had no choice but to hang up my "sticks"! <br /> <br />Were you ever in any other bands? <br />When I was in the 8th or 9th grade, me and my pals had a band. We never played out for as long as I was in it though. <br /> <br />What is it about the Posies that makes you "feel like a 16 year old girl"? <br />Exactly? None, other than I have a weakness for that type of music, "girlie" pop music, like the kind they make. <br /> <br />Do you have a favourite Nirvana song? Which? <br />I couldn't single one out as a favorite. I like Nirvana okay but they don't mean as much to me as they did to the Gen X "kids". I don't even know what most of their songs are about! Their lyrics make no sense to me. <br /> <br />Was Stinky based on a real person? <br />He's a mixture of a lot of people I've known through the years. <br /> <br />Has he gone to hell? <br />No, he wasn't THAT bad! Well, I don't believe in the afterlife anyway, so you're asking the wrong person. <br /> <br />What work did you do for Sub Pop? <br />Several 45" record sleeves, a video box cover, a few t shirts, a poster or two. <br /> <br />Who are your favourite bands of all time? <br />The Beatles and the Beach Boys. <br /> <br />Have you heard of the Scottish bands Urusei Yatsura or The Yummy Fur? <br />No, I haven't. There used to be a band in Seattle called "Yummy Fur". <br /> <br />Who's your favourite Simpson's character? <br />Homer, I guess. He's the funniest. <br /> <br />Do you like South Park? <br />I've only seen one full episode. I thought it was pretty funny. We don't get the cable station that it appears on in Seattle! <br /> <br />What possessed Buddy to put up a Hanson poster in his apartment? <br />I like Hanson, and whatever I like, Buddy likes! <br /> <br />What's planned for the future? <br />Right now I'm keeping busy with a lot of different freelance jobs. I'm taking time plotting out my next big move, since I have several options. <br /> <br />Anything else? <br />Sorry to hear about the UK team losing in the World Cup. Brit fans do have a reputation for being the worst. That's about the only thing about World Cup soccer that Americans know: "watch out for those Limey hooligans!". Otherwise soccer is just a kids game over here. It's too boring to watch. <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 9) <br /> <br />(<a href="http://www.Fantagraphics.com">www.Fantagraphics.com</a>) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270376987187116?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703749557313702004-12-10T10:35:00.002-08:002004-12-14T12:53:04.143-08:00Eska <br /> <br />On the evening Gringo Records's paths first crossed an amazing, exciting band supported Urusei Yatsura at the Colchester Art Centre. The four piece from Strathblane is Chris and Colin (geetar et vocales), Kenny (baddass bass) and Willy (hum-drummer). They've been going since about 1993. In addition to Eska, Chris Mack also does James Orr Complex, Colin Kearney also performs for Empire Builder and Kenny has played bass in Jolt occassionally, from time to time. <br /> <br />The fearsome foursome at the toppermost poppermost come on like a strange brew of Superchunk and Husker Du (and Sugar) and then also at other choice moments displaying a destructive touch of classical Pavement and Slint. They're spearheaded by a two headed monster writing team keeping things fresh. A similar drummer scenario to Spinal Tap has seen in the past Mr Stuart Braithwaite at the perch. <br /> <br />Manipulating you covertly since 1993 <br /> <br />Here comes muses from Colin: <br /> <br />JG: When are you bringing out a new record? <br />CK: Nothing concrete as of yet but we should have a CD (Invent The Fortune) out on God Bless before too long. CD only I'm afraid but we're going to try and find someone to put it out on vinyl. Also, we should be recording our first U.S. 7" soon. The songs will be "1983" and "Knives, Slowing", the latter of which was part of our Peel session. The 7" should be available over here also. <br /> <br />JG: Did you see the review you got in Kerrang which described you as "gloom merchants" and the "sound of someone snivelling to impress people". What did you think of that? <br />CK: Since when did snivelling impress people? The gig in question was gruesome. The venue was near empty and to make things worse, there was a bit of inner band friction. Therefore a sulky show and a moody Eska, so sue us. If anybody reading has ever seen us, they'll know what we're normally like. By the way, Kerrang seems to revell in the gloomy and dismal. <br /> <br />JG: Does Kenny still wear nail varnish? Is he still anything to do with Jolt? <br />CK: Kenny only plays with Jolt when he's in the area as a favour and as Jolt live in London then I guess the answer would be "not really". Nail varnish? I don't rightly know. Not often. <br /> <br />JG: Do you think you'll ever come back to Colchester? <br />CK: Fer sure but it may be a while. <br /> <br />JG: Who's your favourite Star Wars bloke? <br />CK: Lando, that Colt 45 swilling stud! <br /> <br />JG: Is there a place in your hearts still for The BMX Bandits, Teenage Fanclub, The Pastels etc? <br />CK: What do you mean "still"? I never liked BMX Bandits, totally lame. Both the last Fanclub and Pastels records are nice pieces of work. <br /> <br />JG: How well do you know Tommy Johnstone\Colin Hardie? <br />CK: I know his hat size because we're Poker Buddies. <br /> <br />JG: Chris is an amazing drawer isn't he? <br />CK: You should see him as an occasional table. <br /> <br />JG: Who's your favourite Spice Girl? <br />CK: Who's my favourite girl? Good question. I'm glad you didn't ask me about my favourite Spice Girl though. I'll have to give this one some thought. <br /> <br />JG: What is it about Scotland that makes you produce such good bands? <br />CK: Alcoholism. <br /> <br />JG: Can you get Channel Five from where you live? <br />CK: Yeah. The only thing I watch on it is the baseball. <br /> <br />JG: Is where you live most like Take The High Road, Trainspotting or Rab C. Nesbitt? <br />CK: I have never seen "High Road" or "Rab". Trainspotting looks like its set in England half the time. I live in the sticks. <br /> <br />JG: Super crap question. Where does the name Eska come from? <br />CK: By strange coincidence it is both Chris and I's middle name. It's fate. <br /> <br />JG: Who's your favourite rapper? <br />CK: MC Tunes. <br /> <br />JG: Why don't you like 18 Wheeler? <br />CK: Why pick on 18 Wheeler? I don't like a lot of bands. <br /> <br />JG: What happened with the library book/record cover saga (when you had to post a book from your local library to London)? <br />CK: I couldn't send the book in the end as it wasn't allowed out of the library to play. So the cover to "Last Man" is the work of a shoddy photocopy. <br /> <br />JG: What was it like playing the Astoria? <br />CK: Cool. It gives you a false sense of importance and makes you feel like a rock star for an evening. Good mix in the monitors as well. <br /> <br />JG: Whats your favourite film? <br />CK: Toughie. Let's see... "Breakfast At Tiffanys", "The Godfather Pt I & II" etc. Kinda obvious. I really like "The Apartment". Ever seen "The Music Of Chance"? <br />JG: Ever built a wall to pay off a gambling debt? <br /> <br />JG: What do you think of Che? <br />CK: Che Records? I don't give 'em a lot of thought to be honest. <br /> <br />JG: What were you like at school? <br />CK: Hugely popular, witty, urbane, untouchable on the field and in the classroom. Teachers asked my advice, pupils idolised me. The toast of the town. Answer your question? <br /> <br />JG: What was America like? <br />CK: Ace. Went to my first baseball game (Texas Rangers 4 New York Yankees 2. Hah!), saw some cool bands (100 Watt Clock come highly recommended), discovered Tofu, bought clothes and records and hung out with excellent people. <br /> <br />JG: And the Grifters &amp; Scud Mountain Boys? <br />CK: Again ace. We supported the Scud Mountain Boys in London 2 years ago and Joe (Pernice, the singer) remembered my mug and stood me a couple of drinks. All my friends hate me for seeing the Grifters. Oh yeah, the Scuds have broken up but look out for the Pernice Brothers LP on Sub Pop. <br /> <br />JG: Have you fallen out with Mogwai? <br />CK: Too damn right! I wrote half the material on "Mogwai Young Team" and never got a bean. Talentless fucks, show me the money! <br /> <br />JG: What do you think of Mudhoney? <br />CK: Who really cares what I think of Mudhoney? I like some of their stuff, other stuff I don't like so much. <br /> <br />JG: And James Orr Complex? <br />CK: Of course, very similar to Mudhoney in a lot of respects. The Complex rule. Wait till you hear the new stuff. <br /> <br />JG: Whats going on with Urusei Yatsura? <br />CK: I don't really know. They've released their 2nd full LP and it's a good 'un and they're probably touring. <br /> <br />JG: Are you hoping to get signed? <br />CK: You offering? <br /> <br />JG: When will True North be released? <br />CK: Sometime this year on a split 7" with Boston's finest, New Radiant Storm King. <br /> <br />JG: Did you enjoy the Peel session? <br />CK:Yeah, did you? <br />JG: Yup. <br /> <br />JG: What else should I have asked you? <br />CK: You should have asked me for a substantial loan 'cos I'm feeling really generous. However, the time past. <br /> <br />JG: Anything else? <br />CK: And remember kids, always recycle - TO THE EXTREME! <br /> <br />JG: And. <br />CK: Take it easy. <br /> <br />ESKA have released: <br />Trucking & Paving (Modern Independent) <br />split single w/Poison Sisters (Flotsam &amp; Jetsam)* <br />Ill Spike (Lovetrain) <br />Running On Sum Six Dew (Lovetrain) <br />Last Man On The Moon (Scared Of Girls) <br /> <br />* this is officially sold out at Flotsam &amp; Jetsam but they say distributors SRD have some copies. <br /> <br />Address: <br />Morava <br />Moor Road <br />Strathblane <br />Glasgow <br />G63 9EZ <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 9) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270374955731370?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703735832279602004-12-10T10:35:00.001-08:002004-12-12T16:58:13.870-08:00Steve Howarth <br /> <br />Professional wrestling <br /> <br />In America, professional wrestling is termed Sports Entertainment. Its a cliche to term it big business but it does command a lot of attention and revenue over there as opposed to this country, where it gets laughed off as visions of middle aged men rolling around and grunting is met with absurdity. <br /> <br />I first began regularly watching the WWF when we got Sky in late 1989. For about six years I don't think I missed a thing or one single show. Wrestling in America is very slick and expertly executed. It may not be wholly competitive but it does take athleticism. For about the first three years I honestly thought it was real. When I began watching Hulk Hogan was world champion, the Ultimate Warrior was intercontinental champion and Demolition were tag team champions. Wrestling is the greatest soap opera in existense but with ultraviolence. For every gimmick to turn you off, there is one to turn you on. You laugh, you cry, you feel disgusted when the baddies get away with murder and you feel insulted when the absurd occurs revealing a tad too much fiction. I was a 14 year old with an Andre The Giant action figure and wrestling ring (and I still have them tucked away upstairs somewhere. You can stick your re-issue Star Wars figures right up your arse). <br /> <br />It was Hulk Hogan that made wrestling big business aided by the marketing methods of Vince McMahon, owner of the WWF. As the first wrestling promotion to attempt to cover the whole of the USA, it used corporate like techniques to do so and as a result put many regional promotions out of business garnering criticism from wrestling purists. They roped in Cyndi Lauper for Rock'n'rasslin' thus getting the MTV crowd on board. In 1985 Hulk Hogan wrestled Roddy Piper live on MTV, can you imagine this happening these days? The event led to the first huge wrestling event, Wrestlemania, where they got Mr T to be Hulk Hogan's tag team partner, thus getting the A Team crowd on board. Wrestlemania, wrestling's first big event came live and direct from New York's world famous Madison Square Garden venue. From there Hogan would appear on any piece of merchandise he could, from lunchboxes to toddler chairs and baby bibs. He ruled the wrestling world for ten years, undisputed until around Wrestlemania IX when along with his hair growing thin, also did his youth, ability and appeal. After semi retiring a number of times over the previous years he was finally gone but his ghost (and influence) remained. This was apparently the end of an era and the wrestling boom, although still a stable industry, was long gone. <br /> <br />This is only half the story as in the US there are two main bodies who run wrestling. The other federation was and is the NWA which was later renamed WCW by its owner Ted Turner (CNN, Warner, Atlanta Braves etc etc). Unfortunately the WCW has never received proper coverage in this country. The WWF and WCW are bitter rivals to the extreme who to only recently wouldn't even acknowledge the existence of eachover. And such acknowledgement since has been in the form of on screen slanging matchs and a couple of off screen lawsuits. Its true, the action often occurs away from the ring and TV shows. <br /> <br />Post Hogan the wrestling world initially struggled. The WWF became more absurd and gimmick led (although it already was pretty far down this road) and the WCW was seemingly trying to copy this. The WWF tried a number times to fill the hole. The Ulitmate Warrior had initially seemed destined to fill the hole but he blew it big style, probably before Hogan had even left. As Hogan seemed more and more reluctant to stick around, Ric Flair had been brought in by the WWF for the feud the wrestling world had been waiting for but that never really happened how it was intended. With Flair still around Hogan basically packed it in. To fill his void the WWF wheeled out Macho Man Randy Savage but he was, and is, long past it. Flair had two runs as champion until Bret Hart finally fulfilled his potential. His first run though was cut short by obese Japanese Sumo wrestler Yokozuna (although actually Samoan). Yokozuna should also go down as the grappler that put Hogan out the WWF and for too long he reigned champion. The next great superstar for the WWF would be the healthy again Lex Luger (a former WCW champion) as Hart got tied up in stiffling feuds with Jerry Lawler and then his brother Owen. Luger totally blew his chance, floundered and eventually returned to the WCW after getting stuck in a waste of time tag team with Davey Boy Smith. Hart finally regained the WWF title at Wrestlemania X from Yokozuna and kept crossing paths with his brother. In the meantime Shawn Michaels was emerging as a fine singles wrestler himself. <br /> <br />As a fine feud between Michaels, Hart and the impressive Diesel, with walk on parts by Sid, The Undertaker and Owen Hart, was taking place Ted Turner signed Hulk Hogan for WCW after his movie career in Hollywood was a dismal failure. He re-entered wrestling as the goodguy he always had been and the Hogan-Flair feud occurred proper. The WWF also seemed to be finally flourishing since the loss of its icon figure. Its biggest quartet of grapplers were all fan favourites and all competing with eachother. A genuine rivalry was taking place between Hart and Michaels. <br /> <br />Seemingly at the height of their WWF careers Razor Ramon (Scott Hall) and Diesel (Kevin Nash) chose not to renew their contracts and left. They resurfaced in WCW as the Outsiders and then revealed themselves to be part of an organisation within the WCW taking over, ruled by Hulk Hogan turning from wrestlings most popular man (although this when his ability had been diminishing further). The NWO, full of former WWF stars, was supposed to be the WWF attempting to take the WCW over from inside. The WWF denied this on air thus breaking down the barriers and finally accepting the existence of its fiercest rival. <br /> <br />The WCW was building a plot around paranoia and behind the scenes, literally spliting the federation in two. The WWF carried on with Hart and Michaels leading the way and Michaels finally capturing the title from Hart causing him to go into semi retirement for nearly a year. Steve Austin meanwhile came into his own in the federation. When Hart finally returned he feuded with Steve Austin. Once more in contention he aimed his targets towards Michaels and his newly formed DeGeneration X. Hart's feud with Austin would seem a mistake. Austin became popular as a result and Hart would turn heal for the first time since his time with Jimmy Hart. Hart responded by reunited the Hart family as the Hart Foundation. In the meantime DeGeneration X were just as crooked. Hart regained the belt and turned dirtier. He continuously criticised America. It was now USA v Canada. Events were held in Canada and Britain where the Hart Foundation were cheered but everywhere else (America) the crowd just about took Michaels side. The federation was at its most exciting for years. Unfortunately things were happening behind the scenes. Hart really despised how Michaels carried himself and acted. The rivalry already more than professional worsened. Hart was also having troubles with scripts with Vince McMahon. It is said when a racial attack on the Black Panther-esqe group The Nation Of Domination supposed by the Harts occured, Hart was very displeased at being made to appear a racist. It was all reaching a crisis point. The main event pitting Hart against Michaels at Survivor Series 97 ended everything. Strangely McMahon spent this match at ringside. It ended with Michaels using Harts finishing move on Hart! McMahon waved for the match to stop. Never was a match so overtly fixed. Hart could not believe the doublecross and nor could the Canadian crowd. Hart spat at his boss McMahon as Michaels quickly fled the venue for his life. Hart stuck around and destroy any WWF equipment he could lay his hands on, made WCW signs and returned to his locker room to destroy. The Pay-Per-View broadcast had long ended, trying to mask what was happening. This incident seriously harmed McMahon's reputation and ended possibly the most exciting period in the second half of the nineties for the WWF. <br /> <br />Over a year later Steve Austin has taken over the WWF. Michaels lost the belt to him soon after the tainted victory and had to give wrestling a break due to further back problems. Austin was initially involved in a four way tie up with Mankind, The Undertaker and Kane. It lacked the grace and excitement of previous title feuds due to the whole absurdity of it. Vince McMahon has a more visible major role in the WWF ring activites now. The shocking truth of his handling of the Hart incident has aided him in creating a corporate monster persona. Michaels is close to a return to the ring, which could bring a much needed spark to the federation. <br /> <br />Hart has in the meantime resurfaced in WCW just as the increasingly popular NWO itself has split in two. Hart initially targeted the aging and now mid-carder Ric Flair who has since been sacked by the federation. Rumours abound of a return for him to the WWF but retirement would be more dignified. Hogan still ran supreme until a bulkier Austin clone called Goldberg took the federation by storm and is currently champion. Hogan's contract may soon be up. His NWO adventure has seemed to have undone his previous 10+ years work. A longshot rumour is a return to the WWF but this will almost definitely not happen. Hart is causing havoc now in WCW. He has targeted the Crow clone Sting and teased with joining the NWO, although which one is also questionable. He should really aim towards the main title. <br /> <br />The latest twists have seen the McMahon corporate persona go into overdrive, having him seemingly pursuing a "genuine" vendetta against Steve Austin. This has included the introduction of his son and the rest of his family to the ranks of the WWF, the formation of the supergroup the Corporate Ministry in association with the Undertaker and McMahon himself has entered the ring himself on numerous occasions. In the midst of all this confussion the title has exchanged hands many times between Austin, the Undertaker and the superimproved Rocky Maivia. The latest contender to emerge has become Hunter Hearst Helmsley, now a McMahon lacky after the disintegration of the flailing DeGeneration X. With McMahon now supposedly barred from his own business the WWF is moving from strength to strength. The scenarios have genuinely seemed to get absurded as McMahon has played out on screen a storyline based on the behind the scenes Bret Hart altercation. It has seen the WWF trounce the WCW in the monday night ratings war with record numbers. <br /> <br />The WCW carries on itself now seeing Ric Flair in position as the federation madman as Hogan made a swift exit perhaps to running for president of the United States! Currently in the WCW Flair is control freak commissioner, as persona fitting his gift of character coinciding with his physical disintegration with age. And amongst him is Arn Anderson and Roddy Piper to back him up. The WCW remains a waste land for ex-WWF superstars. The NWO now seems a distant memory as the same faces now play slightly different roles. Still, its not enough to beat the current WWF by wheeling out its past. <br /> <br />Professional wrestling is too estrablished to go away. Although it may seem to be struggling, it is still flourishing. The WCW/WWF rivalry keeps things hot. Both try to outdo eachother's Pay Per View events and weekly jostle for viewers of their Monday night TV shows, a war the WWF is now winning. <br /> <br />Owen San Lorenzo has many friends, one of which is training to become a professional wrestler. Its someone chasing a dream. A unique dream, which deserves support and attention. <br /> <br />Steve The wrestler <br /> <br />What have you been up to? <br />Writing a couple of film scripts for a competition, one on Bridge. The other about faking your own death. Training down gym as usual, running 800s an all for something special planned. <br /> <br />Where are you from? <br />Staplehurst, a small village 9 miles south of Maidstone, Kent. The Garden of England. <br /> <br />Do you have a ring name? <br />You don't get names until you've really trained and worked on a gimmick. I always used to like Hanuman. He was the hardest guy in the Buddhist religion but people refused to call me it 'cause I looked like a monkey. <br /> <br />How heavy and tall are you? <br />Somewhere around 13 stone 8 lbs. Six foot one. <br /> <br />What made you want to become wrestler? <br />I was always thin and kinda weedy. I feel in love with the sport first time I saw it and my interest never declined. I couldn't handle a normal job and want to prove you can achieve your dreams if you really want to. I love attention and think the mix of athleticism and charisma would suit me well. <br /> <br />What have you done about trying to become a wrestler? <br />For the past three years I've trained heavy weights 4 or 5 times a week. I've adapted my diet and taken safe supplements. I've visited a wrestling school in Cincinnatti and taken a few bumps in the ring to see how it feels. I've been spending ages trying to sort out a job/visa over there. <br /> <br />Who have you spoken to? <br />A guy called Les Thatcher, an ex-pro wrestler who's been in the business most of his life. He's a real exponent of the sport and a great personality. <br /> <br />How far do you hope to get? <br />What I achieve is of secondary importance really. I've gained some weight but I'm still small for a wrestler. My body type means there is very little chance I'd ever be a "name" but some smaller guys have done well. What's important is that I don't chuck it in. Even if I only end up working behind the scenes it'll be enough 'cause I love the sport. <br /> <br />What injuries are the biggest risk? <br />Joints. Taking big bumps, knees, ankles, lower back and neck can all get serious injuries. A pro at the end of his career will generally have some form of replacement/modified joints. <br /> <br />Do you fancy cage matchs? <br />They're an easy way to get a pop, that's a good reaction from the crowd. But they tend to get away from actual wrestling plus risk injuries a bit more. I'd do one for the crack, no pun intended. <br /> <br />What do you think is the best gimmick match? <br />I love ladder matches because of the thrill they usually give. Sable and Luna's Ballgown Match was quite a good one too. Generally though stipulations only work for one off shock value. <br /> <br />WWF or WCW? Why? <br />To chose one or other is really a pointless thing to do, since most wrestlers work for both at some point in their career. From a fan's perspective I prefer WWF probably because I grew up with the gimmicky side of wrestling. I think WWF has made better use of its talent in most cases. Terry Taylor (Red Rooster) and Matt Borne (Doink) notable exceptions. <br /> <br />Do you think ECW has an underserved bad reputution? <br />If bad means unnecessarilly violent then maybe. Wrestling is a violent sport and some people go to see it for that reason. If bad means not good wrestling then possibly. While most of the guys there are very talented wrestlers, excess of violence can take away from this. <br /> <br />Ric Flair or Hulk Hogan? <br />95% of fans would say Flair 'cause they think they're being a knowledgable fan. He is undoubtedly a better wrestler technically and has a charisma you couldn't teach but you cannot argue about what Hogan has done for the sport, along with Vince McMahon. They're the yin and yang of the great sport. <br /> <br />Bret Hart or Shawn Michaels? <br />On a par probably. While Bret is more professional, outside the ring Michaels is one of the best workers in the sport. <br /> <br />Is Sting overrated? <br />A little I'd say, although I admit I haven't seen a lot of his matches. Plus I'm still on the outside looking in. <br /> <br />Whats your all time favourite match/incident/event? <br />Match: Flair-Savage Wrestlemania VII. Incident/Event: Impossible to pick one but when things don't go to plan and when the wall of silence WWF vs WCW was broken. <br /> <br />All time favourite Pay Per View event (if different to above)? <br />Royal Rumble 92 <br /> <br />Who's your all time favourite wrestler? <br />Ric Flair, 'cause you can learn so much watching him. <br /> <br />Who's your all time favourite manager? <br />Bobby Heenan. <br /> <br />All time favourite commentator? <br />Bobby Heenan/Jerry Lawler <br /> <br />What were the circumstances whereby you came very close to Sunny? <br />The guy who runs the school in Cincinnatti had dinner with her and her husband the week before I first visited. Les is an advisor to training Chris Candido (Skip), Sunny's husband. <br /> <br />What's your all time favourite ring music? <br />Demolition's is pretty good. <br /> <br />If your life could be something fictional, what would it be? <br />Somekind of superhero but one that actually got loads of action with birds. Maybe to have a superbird to fight crime with then go home to the superkids. <br /> <br />What were you like at school? <br />Until puberty a bit of a monster. I craved attention and the classes were too easy for the most part, so I just aggrevated teachers. During those dark years I became a bit of a recluse, stuck at an all boys school. Then when I came out of my coccoon I reverted to my previous personality but more annoying as it was no longer accepted to act like a 10 year old. <br /> <br />Why do people dismiss wrestling? <br />Most people don't see the art behind the brashness. They don't appreciate how tough the King Of Sports really is. They can't get beyond the showmanship aspect and assert the views on a very limited knowledge. <br /> <br />Who make up the majority of the wrestling audience? <br />In the US its largely young male adults although the family aspect is still important. In the UK its generally an older, working class audience but the British game is a world apart. Talking US wrestling, most fans in Europe are teenagers. <br /> <br />What state is wrestling in in the 90's? <br />The 90s is far too long a period to assign one definition. Early 90s wrestling had a push worldwide but like the push a few years earlier, it slowed considerably a few years later. The Steroids scandal amongst others (Barry Orton's sexual harassement case) affected wrestling badly plus the ratings war has made much more competitive markets. In 1998 it has a mid card placing, better than before Wrestlemania but not close to it's recent hey day. If it can flourish again it will so by sound wrestling rather than gimmicks. <br /> <br />Is Vince McMahon good or bad? <br />Good and bad too vague. Good in that he made wrestling more commercially acceptable and available. Bad in that he ran a lot of smaller promotions out of business and even today jips major stars. But its still a close doors business environment. You have to have the right personality to get things done. <br /> <br />Music questions: Whats your favourite band? <br />Mamas & Papas probably. <br /> <br />Favourite song? <br />The Next Life by Suede. Or Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. <br /> <br />Favourite album? <br />Blur - Parklife. <br /> <br /> <br />(originally in NO PICTURES issue 9) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270373583227960?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703718729970792004-12-10T10:35:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:35:18.730-08:00Radio Loisirs <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270371872997079?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703702119329222004-12-10T10:34:00.003-08:002004-12-14T13:12:59.406-08:00mogwai <br /> <br />Rock Action. From Glasgow, bionic, Cpt. Meat, DEMONIC and pLasmatroN rip shit in a loud style. Basically if you like loud guitars, you'll like Mogwai. If not you're a liar to yourself. Buy Ten Rapid and Mogwai Young Team for thunder blows of records. <br /> <br />Since we first encountered them, they seemed to have just gotten bigger and bigger. The original nucleus of Stuart Braithwaite, Dominic Aitchison, John Cummings and Martin Balloch have stuck together and survived a period with multi instrumental madman Brendan O'Hare. <br /> <br />In addition to the albums above a remix album called Kicking A Dead Pig and a proper studio album called Come On Die Young have surfaced, displaying an increased scope in Mogwai's music. <br /> <br />I managed to get an interview with Stuart as Hirameka Hi Fi soundchecked in the background. Stuart performed this interview whilst also riding his skateboard one footed. <br /> <br />J: How are you today? <br />S: I've been better but I've been worse. <br />J: Why have you come back to Colchester? <br />S: When we tour its really a process of elimination. We go around and play a lot of different places and if we don't like a certain place we don't go back. I think we quite liked it last time we came to Colchester. Its not the greatest town but the kids are into the music and stuff. This will be the only place left in Essex that we'll still play. Is this Essex? In this area anyway. <br />J: What about Chelmsford? <br />S: We're not gonna play there again. <br />J: No? <br />S: No, it was shit. <br />J: How's the tour going? <br />S: It's going really well, most nights are either full or sold out so I mean its like really good to be playing to like your audience. And especially having Aerial M touring, getting people who haven't heard Aerial M to hear them and stuff. <br />J: Whats is like playing with Aerial M? <br />S: Its great, they're really nice people and I really enjoy watching them. <br />J: Did you enjoy the Brats gig? <br />S: It was quite nervewracking because it was the first gig of the whole tour and it was live on radio and the TV cameras were there but that all just seemed stupid. The radio thing was quite stressful but we played a new song for the very first time that night as well which was quite heavy going but oh no it was a good night. <br />J: Do you like being on telly? <br />S: We didn't really get the full impact of it because we only saw a video of it that someone had taped. We were playing the night it was on but in theory its amazing, its great being on TV. <br />J: So what was America like? <br />S: Its really big. Its a cliche but actual driving periods between gigs was quite frightening, it could be really tiring. The kids really like their music. We got quite good audiences, not huge or anything but really attentative, good audiences. <br />J: Was that with Pavement? <br />S: Well with Pavement most of the shows were sold out before we were even announced as the support band but we did some shows on our own as well and some with America Analog Set. That was when we really kinda worked out who likes us in America whereas with Pavement we had like a few people saying "I've got your record, thats cool" but most people were going "I've never heard of you but that was cool" or whatever. It was a character building experience. <br />J: Did you see that building next door that looks like a swimming pool next door? Did you know Jo Brand's there tonight? <br />S: Yeah, I think I actually saw it in some listings, she's doing a comedy thing or something. Thats nice (laughs). Shes not that funny though. Shes not unfunny but shes certainly not.... I don't know what to say to it. <br />J: What music are you listening to on the tour? <br />S: Its a lot of heavy metal. Black Sabbath, things like that. Also like Aphex Twin, All Saints, Codeine, lots of music. <br />J: Who's currently on the slap list? <br />S: Malcolm from Arab Strap. We found out he claimed he wrote one of our songs. <br />J: Which one? <br />S: Tracy. He said he wrote Tracy or something like that. It was on the radio and we heard it and we weren't very happy but erm yeah Malcolm. <br />J: Anyone else? <br />S: Thats about it really. That band Rialto. We like, keep seeing them on the telly. Don't like it, thats rubbish. <br />J: How come you're covering Black Sabbath? <br />S: We just like them, they're a really good band. <br />J: Which song was it again. <br />S: Sweet Leaf. I sing it and stuff, its pretty weird. <br />J: So who is your favourite metal band otherwise? <br />S: Black Sabbath or Motorhead but probably Black Sabbath. <br />J: Did you hear about Rob Halford at the weekend? <br />S: No, what about him? <br />J: He come out. <br />S: As being gay? Hes as gay as a window, you could tell. <br />J: Er, all the leather and shit. <br />S: That squeaky voice. <br />J: Hes a brummie. Will you be doing Sweet Leaf live? <br />S: We haven't. We could. The thing about us is that theres a lot of songs live that we don't do but we all have to agree that we want to play it. Theres loads of songs that I'd really like to play but no one really ever says or wants to. <br />J: Will you be doing a Scottish football song for the World Cup? <br />S: Yeah, we did it actually. We recorded it. Its going to be on a Chemikal Underground EP. All the bands on the label are gonna do World Cup songs. <br />J: Whats yours called? <br />S: Guardians Of Football. Its total heavy metal, pastiche of sports themes or whatever. <br />J: Who would you like to see cover a Mogwai song and which song? <br />S: I don't know if I would like to see anyone really. Maybe like an orchestra if something could get arranged like horns or brass or strings or whatever. I can't think of a band that I think..., I dunno, I almost said would do it better than us but thats big headed and not true. I can't think of any band that would. <br />J: Would you fancy someone doing a cheesy cover? <br />S: No, we could do that ourselves for a laugh I think. Er, otherwise the original lineup of Black Sabbath doing Like Herod would be pretty good or Joy Division playing New Paths To Helicon. I can't really imagine it, its just names in my head that I could put together. <br />J: What was it like snogging Rick from Ash? <br />S: Can't remember. It was quite an embarassing experience. <br />J: Was that your reaction to the picture? <br />S: I was really embarassed. <br />J: Have you got much flack for it? <br />S: My girlfriend wasn't very happy. No, not really, because I won the drinking competition all my friends just thought that was cool. <br />J: You looked like you were doing the best, you looked like you were carrying someone. <br />S: Yeah, I was ceremonially gobbed but I could still walk. I felt pretty bad because I'd actually stopped drinking then, I hadn't drinked for three weeks or something and it was like "oh go and do this Christmas issue". It would have been a lot worse actually, John the guy who does our press came with us and kind of looked after me. It could have been a lot worse. <br />J: What do you feel about Placebo now? <br />S: Placebo? I don't really know. I just don't care. Did we used to slag them off? <br />J: Brian used to be on the slap list. <br />S: Brian? Brian's my mate now. <br />J: Is he? <br />S: Not really but I do know him. I always see him kicking about. <br />J: What's he like then? <br />S: A cheesy rock star. He's not my kind of guy anyway, you know? I feel sorry for him actually. <br />J: Really? <br />S: Yeah, I do. <br />J: Why is that then? <br />S: Because if you look at him, listen to the things he says, thats not what a real person says. You can't carry on like that and go through life. I really find it quite surreal. These people that sort of have an interview mode or whatever. He's like one of these people. <br />J: What price do you think CDs should be in the shops? <br />S: I don't really care. I should, I respect bands that do. Do you think they're too expensive? <br />J: Yeah. <br />S: They should be the same price as vinyl actually, you're right. They should be about £8.99 or something. Charging £16 or whatever is really bad especially for people that don't live next to a lot of record shops and they're forced to buy them for a lot of money at Tower or Our Price or wherever. Theres just nothing you can do about it. Thats the thing, do you know what I mean, I couldn't get wound up about that, even though its a pretty bad situation because theres nothing that can be done about it, that I could do about it. Maybe if like EMI Records decided that all their albums when they came out were gonna cost £7.99, it might kind of sort it out but I mean that would cause even more problems for the independent labels. I mean imagine, look what they did with CD singles, a Domino band would have trouble getting in the Top 40 on those terms, a single being £1.99 or whatever. <br />J: Have you any plans for Rock Action? <br />S: Yeah, I have actually. I've got some money now, not a lot of money but I'd like to put out a Trout album. I'd like to put out.... theres loadsa bands I like, like a band from Glasgow called Wheat, a band from Ireland called Wormhole, a band from Wales called Headfull. I'd just like to put out records by those sorts of bands. Theres bands that no one gives a fuck about that are really good. <br />J: Have you drummed for Trout recently? <br />S: It just did it the once in Brighton. Were you there? <br />J: Yeah. <br />S: They're much better with their own drummer. That was good fun. They're a crazy band. <br />J: Did you like the Pilotcan album? <br />S: Yeah, I thought it had some good songs on it. They probably shouldn't of, probably should be thinking of doing their first album just now. I think they weren't really prepared but its still a good start. <br />J: I saw you in NME this week talking about Iggy Pop. <br />S: Yeah, that was off the top of my head. That was like you asking me a question. It was just when we were doing that Astoria gig and I just said who should win the godlike genius award but I do think Iggy Pop is just so cool. He's great. <br />J: Which is your favourite song? <br />S: Favourite rock song, probably TV Eye or Search And Destroy. Just general song, probably something off The Idiot, any song off The Idiot. Amazing. And Dark from Funhouse, its amazing. Iggy was a genius. <br />J: Do you like Real Cool Time? <br />S: I like it, I like all that first album actually. I really like it. <br />J: Everyone always seems to mention the production on Raw Power. <br />S: I don't really care. I wish I did. All these people go on how the mix is really bad and apparently they brought out this other version with a different mix. I actually bought a bootleg called Rough Power with different mixes. All it had was some really bad backing vocals as well as some bad sounding drums. Basically they got David Bowie to produce it when David Bowie was an utter drug addict, so he obviously couldn't tell his arse from his elbow. He couldn't make a record without Tony Visconti, who did the Bowie albums. I don't know, he made a real arse of it but its still a good record, crazy record. <br />J: Do you think you'll ever be doing one of theirs at some stage? <br />S: When Brendan was in the band, me and Brendan used to play TV Eye at soundchecks. I don't really think we're a good enough rock band to pull it off. Thats one regret I've got about Mogwai, is that we're not an utter rock band. We can't compete on the terms of bands like the Stooges and early Jesus And Mary Chain and stuff. Our music is really subtle and stuff. Now I'm talking rubbish but I don't think we're as good as that. <br />J: Did you like the Macrocosmica album? <br />S: Same as the Pilotcan one, I think they rushed into it and they can make a much better record if they spend more time on it, waited six months. <br />J: Do you still see Brendan? <br />S: Not as often as I used to. Sometimes. <br />J: Would you still like him in your band? <br />S: Er, nah we're OK where we are. <br />J: Is it true he's moved in with Martin? <br />S: He's gonna move in with Martin, probably in the next couple of days or something. I mean he's a nice guy and stuff but... <br />J: Do you reckon he'll make a good flatmate? <br />S: No, he's probably terrible. <br />J: Why? His misbehaving? <br />S: I don't know really, its just that... er, I don't really know why, maybe thats a bit harsh. He wouldn't be on the top list of choices. I wouldn't leave him alone with my wee sister for a start. I don't really know, I've never lived with him. He seems like he breaks a lot of things. <br />J: Is he hyperactive? <br />S: Yeah, utterly hyperactive unless he smokes a lot of hash. He runs up and down, runs up and down and stuff. I don't know where he gets the energy, he doesn't eat anyway. He hardly eats anything at all. <br />J: Did he appear on The King album by Teenage Fanclub? <br />S: What album? <br />J: The King. <br />S: Aye, he played on all those songs. Thats his favourite Teenage Fanclub record. <br />J: Yeah, its the one with the Madonna cover and a song called Mudhoney. <br />S: You can't go wrong with a song called Mudhoney can you? <br />J: Do you like Mudhoney then? <br />S: They're one of my favourite bands, I fucking love them. They're doing a new album just now actually, so hopefully when they come over we'll do some shows with them. I'd really love to support Mudhoney. I think that'll almost definitely happen. I'm gonna make that happen. <br />J: I'd like to meet them, they seem like they're cool. <br />S: I've met one of them. I met Dan Peters. He seemed nice, I had a short talk with him. <br />J: Do you think Dan Peters looks like Graham Kemp a bit? <br />S: No, thats cruel but yeah, he does a bit (laughs). <br />J: Whats your favourite Mudhoney song? <br />S: I don't know what one it is, erm If I Think. Its unbelievable, its totally energetic but its quite sad, its a love song as well. Its really good. Da, ner ner ner, ner ner. Na, ner ner ner ner ner. Ah, they were cool. They actually got me back into guitars, just like when me and Dominic were starting a band. I didn't know what kind of a band I wanted to start but I just went to see Mudhoney, just sort of for like nostalgia but I just remembered how much I fucking love loud guitars. That sort of love of old school, kinda Swervedriver and Mudhoney, came in handy. Thats one of the kind of things that bonded us when we started the band. <br />J: What do you do to relieve boredom on this tour? <br />S: I skateboard, masturbate. Thats it. <br />J: What number interview today for you is this? <br />S: Its number six I think. <br />J: Whats the most commonly asked question? <br />S: It used to be something about the name but we don't really get asked that anymore thank god. People ask what was it like playing with Pavement. There isn't one overriding one that everyone asks. People ask stuff about Brendan in their different ways or whatever. Oh no, this tour its like "whats it like playing with Aerial M". Everyones asked us that. Its understandable. <br />Do you live here in Colchester? <br />J: No, just down the road on the coast, a place called Walton. <br />S: How far is it? <br />J: Its about 45 minutes. <br />S: Oh really? <br />J: Yeah but we've got the seaside, its nice. <br />S: Yeah, sounds nice. <br />J: Would you like to live here? <br />S: No. <br />J: Why? Don't you like it? <br />S: I don't dislike it but England's a very claustrophobic place compared to most other places in the world. Its overpopulated. You can't drive very far without seeing masses of activity. I like peace and quiet. <br />J: Do you think thats why Scotland seems to be producing better bands, I don't know, you seem more into it for the right reasons it seems? <br />S: I don't know. I doubt it. Most of the bands from Scotland are from the city, they're from Glasgow. Most of the bands probably haven't really seen the country I'd seen. Graham Kemp, his girlfriend lives in London and he's said its no different to Glasgow or whatever. Its a good theory but I don't think so. Arab Strap are from Falkirk which is the most shitty place I've been in my life. <br />J: Is it? <br />S: Its fucking horrible. It makes Chelmsford look like Paris. <br />J: Are there Young Teams still going? <br />S: Oh, aye. Loads (laughs). <br />J: Were you ever in one? <br />S: No, I've always been a nice boy. Alun from the Delgados and Stuart from the Delgados were both in the North Motherwell Young Team but I've always been nice (laughs). Not particularly nice but not really in the Casuals or whatever like that. Malcolm knows a lot of Casuals. His cousins are all mad. <br />J: So are mine. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br />(link to Marceline's mogwai site) <br /> <br />(link to http://surf.to/brightlight) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270370211932922?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703684413639492004-12-10T10:34:00.002-08:002004-12-14T13:15:01.990-08:00AERIAL M <br /> <br />Aerial M was Dave Pajo's band before Papa M. As you know Dave Pajo used to be in Slint and theres a story that goes that once recording Spiderland was completed the circumstances had become so intense and stressful that the four band members admitted themselves to mental asylums. The idea of interviewing someone from that sounded intimidating to say the least. Thankfully Owen, from San Lorenzo, was around and soon on first name terms with Mr Pajo. Without him this interview wouldn't have happened. An interview with Dave Pajo is technically an interview with an element of Aerial M, Slint, Tortoise, Royal Trux and Stereolab all rolled into one. <br />Aerial M produced quite frankly, probably the single of the 1998 with Wedding Song No 3. Steve Lamacq made it his priority tune at the time and each time it surfaced on the wireless my entire body filled with goosebumps and made me feel like a 16 year old girl. It also worked a restoration job on Lamacq's faith in rock music he told me. I was in personal despair as I wandered the Earth in search of a copy but finally, fortunately, my efforts were finally fruitful during the week of my life. <br />In addition to Dave Pajo guitaring, Tony Bailey drums, Tim Furnish also guitars and Cassie Marrett basses. <br />Dave: You're not stealing those singles are you? <br />Owen: Yeah, I'll get you one. <br />Dave: I've got two pounds. <br />J: No, don't worry, you can just have one. <br />Dave: No, support the cause. <br />J: Oh, but you've given us so much joy. <br />Dave: (laughs) I really enjoyed it tonight, I thought it was great. I really like it here. <br />J: It is quite good place. How do you like England? <br />Dave: I like it here. I prefer touring in the UK probably more than other Europeon countries just because I can speak the language. <br />J: Is it true that you used to live in Norwich? <br />Dave: Yeah, I did for a year. <br />J: Did you like it? <br />Dave: Yeah. <br />Owen: Were you doing something with art there? <br />Dave: Yeah, I went to art college there. I studied painting and I was a really crap painter. <br />Owen: Was it interesting though? <br />Dave: Erm, not really. I mean I kinda got turned on by the whole art scene I think, the art college thing. There was a lot of snobs and stuff but I got turned on to a lot of good artists that I didn't know about before. <br />Owen: Did doing art affect the way you look at your covers of your records? <br />Dave: Yeah, probably. <br />Owen: I always liked the Slint records because they didn't have any words on. <br />Dave: Yeah. <br />Owen: Especially Spiderland didn't have any words on and maybe the ten inch as well. <br />Dave: That was kind of just because we couldn't agree on what any of the words should say (laughs). You know, I guess when you keep working on something for a long time and eventually you keep taking away all the unnecessary things you end up with nothing (laughs). <br />J: Are enjoying touring with Mogwai? <br />Dave: Yeah, they're so great. They blow us away every night. And they're good fun. <br />J: Have you heard of Jo Brand? <br />Dave: No. <br />J: She was at the other building.... <br />Owen: She was on tonight, like next door. <br />Dave: Oh really, no way. Is she good? <br />Owen: Yeah, she's funny, well, I don't know. <br />J: If you'd seen her, you'd remember her. <br />Dave: Really? <br />J: She's extreme in a way I suppose. <br />Owen: Do you like Trans Am? <br />Dave: Yeah, I like them. <br />Owen: Didn't John (from Tortoise) do some production? <br />Dave: He did their first record. <br />Owen: That records really good, I like that. <br />J: What other music are you currently into? <br />Dave: The cassettes I brought are all like country music and world music. Theres a band from London called Woodbine that hasn't put anything out yet. They're really great I think. <br />J: Are they country? <br />Dave: No, they're just really sparce, I don't think theres any drums in it, just female vocals but its not like its cliched at all. <br />Owen: Do you like Karate? <br />Dave: Never heard of them. <br />Owen: You should check them out, they're really good. They're kinda like really bare, reduced three piece. <br />J: Is it true you're gonna be playing with Royal Trux? <br />Dave: Yup, you heard about that? <br />J: Yes. What are they like? <br />Dave: As people? They're, I don't know if you've ever seen them, they're like seven feet tall. And super, super cool. They have like a really unique attitude. They never want to do the same thing twice. I saw them, they played twice last year, two tours and the first time they'd stripped down, it was just drums, keyboard and guitar. I think they stripped down the drum kit. And then the second time I saw them he had a full kit but the keyboard player and the guitarist were on the same sound level the whole time and you couldn't tell one song from another except for when she sang. I mean I don't know if it worked or not but the fact that they fucked with it so much was cool. <br />J: Do you really like Alanis Morrisette? <br />Dave: (laughs) no I don't. I mean I bought the record out of curiousity because like every song on there has been a hit. I remember hearing her on the radio and just being like could not believe it was mainstream music because her voice is so... its like it kinda reminds me of early Palace records. Its like her voice is all over the place, psychotic. But no I don't like her, I hate her lyrics. I just listened to it once and NME made it sound as if I was a huge fan. <br />J: Did you like the Stereolab gig here also? <br />Dave: Yeah, I liked it. I've just seen them so many times. <br />J: Have you actually played with them? <br />Dave: Yeah, I played with them for about four months, just on tour. <br />J: Have you heard of Bob Tilton? <br />Dave: Just through Mogwai. <br />J: They're fans of Slint. <br />Dave: Are they? Thats cool. <br />Owen: You don't mind people keep bringing Slint up? <br />Dave: I don't care. Its just weird because you want what you're doing currently to be the most important thing. <br />J: Its amazing because I was looking at a top ten list from a mail order company and Spiderland was like forth. <br />Dave: Really? <br />J: Its going through like a revival <br />Owen: In England anyway. <br />J: Especially with like Mogwai and bands like that citing it as an influence. <br />Dave: Southern Records tell us we don't sell very many records. <br />J: I shouldn't have said that then. Anyhow thanks, I know you were hassled. <br />Dave: Oh don't worry. Take care. <br /> <br />Dave's genuinely cool. <br /> <br />Aerial M recently performed a session on John Peel's show. Unfortunately that very same night we all had to attend a Hirameka Hi Fi gig in Chelmsford with Disco Pistol. Oh joy. If anyone taped could I please a copy? <br /> <br />David Pajo <br />Po Box 7626 <br />Louisville, KY <br />70257 0626 <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270368441363949?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703669586260902004-12-10T10:34:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:34:29.586-08:00Arab Strap <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270366958626090?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703651855838842004-12-10T10:34:00.000-08:002004-12-14T13:14:27.890-08:00Dawn Of The Replicants <br /> <br />My first interview for No Pictures was with Dawn Of The Replicants just after they'd released their DIY debut EP, So Far So Spitfire, on their own Dumb Sulk Trigger label. Almost exactly one year later I interviewed them again, in Chelmsford. Now they're on East West, a major label run by the man. They're from Galashiels and put out EPs more frequently than they cook their own meals. I'm typing this as the Italian Job is on telly. Its the end and the bus is about to fall over the edge of the cliff. Its tipping..... Another Self Preservation Society, the Replicants are Paul Vickers (pop singer), Roger Simian (rock axe and fanzine man), Donald Kyle (rumble bum bass), Grant Pringle (better than any fucking drum machine) and Mike Small (all sorts of sounds and stuff. Not called Mike Muso for nothing). For the interview the band, sans Mike, were accompanied by Matthew their manager and Justin their engineer type bloke. I was accompanied by Joe Lando and Jimmy Lando: <br /> <br />J: How are you today then? <br />R: Ok. How did the accountancy exam go? <br />J: Probably past it, usually do. Are you looking forward to the Ultrasound tour? <br />R: Yeah, I think it will be magic. Paul? Paul? <br />P (mumbling): .......magic......... <br />D: Ha, ha, ha. <br />R: Er, we saw them playing live last year somewhere and they're brilliant live. <br />J: Are they really any good? <br />R: Live they're brilliant. Don't know about the recorded stuff, I'm not so keen on that... <br />D: ...but live its a brilliant show. <br />R: I bought the single and was a bit disappointed because I'd seen them live and thought they were magic live..... Ah, Beer! Hmmmm. So, Ultrasound really good live, unsure about them on record but I think they will be good once they get a more rocking sound. <br />J: Haven't they got a song called Kurt Russell? <br />R: I've not heard that, no. <br />J: Its the b-side of the new single. They like him. <br />Joe: Kurt Russell? Yeah! <br />R: Yeah? Cult hero. When did this begin? <br />Joe: Big Trouble In Little China. <br />R: I've not seen that one. <br />Joe &amp; Jimmy: Its a classic! <br />R: A classic of its genre?! (still unconvinced). <br />J: Paul, whats this shit about you having a voodoo stick? <br />P: I did, I did.... <br />R: No shitting pal, its true. He sawed the head off it in London. <br />J: Was that with Arab Strap? <br />D: Yeah, in Camden. <br />J: At Dingwalls? How'd you like playing there? <br />G: Brilliant venue. <br />R: I enjoyed it. Its the most people we've ever played with. <br />J: Really? <br />R: Yeah. It was probably like us coming down and expecting the whole Camden kind of like wankers coming down but it was brilliant. We actually got an audience that liked us unlike when we play in Scotland. At least people in London have heard of us. <br />D: You've never been to Scotland? You don't know until you've been there. <br />J: Have you played with many other Scottish bands? Like Mogwai..... <br />R: We haven't played with Mogwai. We've played with Arab Strap a few times. I'd like to see Mogwai live. <br />G: We've only done like 15 gigs so far, so we've not played with many people. <br />J: Really? <br />R: Not many gigs. <br />G: We recorded the album before we'd even played together which was strange because we didn't have any gear. We were signed but we didn't have any gear! Which was a bit of a bugger. <br />J: Did you play the (Sheffield) Leadmill with Jonathon Fire*Eater? <br />R: No, it got cancelled. We only found out about it two days before it. <br />D: I don't know what excuse we give to Jonathon Fire*Eater. <br />R: You'd broken your leg, had you not? <br />D: Yeah, something like that. <br />P: They're following us around now. <br />J: Are you looking forward to tomorrow? (the Brat gig at the Astoria) <br />All: Yeah. <br />G: Its been a bit strange because we've been doing a lot of radio stuff and that so no worry. We just met Justin yesterday so we rehearsed yesterday with him. We've not had the chance to think about it too much but yeah we're really looking forward to it. <br />J: What was it like doing a Peel Session? <br />R: That was brilliant. <br />G: Thats what really suits us because we like recording quickly, its probably what we're best at doing. <br />J: We know about that. <br />G: Yeah. That was really good. Its magic working with people like that who just suss it out immediately, you know? <br />J: Who was the bloke who did it? <br />R: The Peel session? It was a bloke called Mike.......er <br />G: Robinson. <br />P: Aye he was brilliant..... <br />D: It was like Mike Mansfield. Ever seen Mike Mansfield? Its just like cue the music, to like T'Pau and stuff. <br />P: .....he's got a magic belly. <br />R: Cor fucking hell. <br />J: Don't you rub bellys for luck? <br />R: What do you mean like a turtle? <br />J: So will you do TFI Friday? <br />R: I'd rather not personally but I don't know about the rest of the band. <br />D: Chris Evans is a tosser but could we really turn it down? <br />G: I'd love to do it, you always get a really good sound. <br />D: I'd like to do it like. <br />J: Would you do it if Placebo were on there as well? <br />G: We could double up as Ugly Bloke and Paul's probably got... what's the name of that? <br />P: Freak Or Unique. <br />R: You could do some arm wrestling <br />P: Hairdressing? <br />R: Arm wrestling. <br />P: I can turn into the Elephant Man at a minutes notice. <br />J: It'll be that Voodoo Stick. Who's the strongest in the band? <br />R: Couldn't you lift your whole weight? <br />G: I used to be able to. <br />R: Ah, but not really though, could you? <br />G: Do you want me to lift myself up? <br />R: I thought only brutes could do that? <br />G: Nah, nah, nah, its easy. <br />R: I can't lift my own weight. <br />G: I wouldn't like to try and lift your own weight. <br />R: No, no. <br />D: Grant's the strongest, the rest of us are weak men. <br />G: Paul prides himself on his..... <br />R: You have moments of power there. <br />D: I walked past him and saw him cut a piece of wood a few months back. This isn't interesting though. <br />P: I only have, at least, one sort of major vitamin running through my body at one time. <br />G: Its the one that means you can see in the dark. <br />P: It fails to nourish me in any way. <br />J: What did you have to eat just now? <br />R: Er, an Indian meal that took an hour and a half. Bit disappointed really. <br />G: The chicken dinner was really good. <br />R: Chicken Tika.. er, er... <br />D: It wasn't the number 26. <br />J: Say whatever you want, I won't be able to spell it. <br />D: Topinanza. <br />R: The food was good but it just took too long. <br />J: Have any of you experienced tour arse? <br />Justin (very loudly): YES! <br />D: That was Justin. <br />G: We've not done enough gigs to experience anything at all. The most gigs we've played in a block is 3. Its fucking hard work. <br />J: You've got 20 coming up. <br />G: Yeah I know, we're all lazy old bastards. <br />J: I heard that you're doing a compilation album as well. <br />R: Well, its like all b-sides and stuff. We've actually knocked that together, its been mastered and everything. Its going to be called Frankenstein In Drag but we've no idea when its gonna be released. Maybe in October, towards the end of the year. <br />G: It might go with the Japanese version of the album, which might be good because they don't get any of the singles out there. <br />R: Theres usually like an extra couple of tracks on the end. <br />J: Paul, John Power, is he an influence? <br />P: John Power. I've got nothing against John Power apart from I don't think I physically resemble John Power. I think I probably look a lot more like Tommy Steele. <br />J: Its been said John Power's got a turnip for a nose. <br />G: Fucking hell! <br />R: A turnip for a nose? That explains a lot. <br />Someone bursting in: Theres a coach load of police outside, so they're (the Y Club) getting really paranoid about puff. They said you can puff but theres a door there that opens to go outside and puff out there. <br />G: A bus load of police? Thats all bull surely. <br />Someone: Shall we get them in?.........they fight crime......... <br />G: What if they fucking appear at the door? <br />J: Did you see the letter in Melody Maker where it said "I'd give that Paul Vickers one"? <br />All: Yeah. <br />J: Who sent that? <br />Matthew: I Know him, he lives in Southend. <br />J: Shit, Southend, its just down the road. Its very close. <br />P: I've yet to meet him but I'll certainly take him up on his offer. <br />J: It was announced in NME, about two weeks ago, that you haven't got a girlfriend. <br />P: I'll take anything. <br />J: Is that why you've come on tour, to meet groupies? <br />P: Erm, I think I need some heavy sex. <br />J: You're in Essex, so........ <br />G: We've heard great things about Essex girls. <br />P: Yeah, pencil me in. I don't know the sorts of..... <br />R: Ins and outs of sexual..... <br />D: Procedure. <br />P: Er, nah, nah, nah. I don't know what to say. <br />Joe: Do you like Blade Runner then? <br />R: Yeah, thats kinda where we got, well it is, where we got the name from. I'm not a huge fan but I really liked it. You like it a lot. <br />P: Its one of my favourite films. <br />Joe: What about the book? <br />R: I like Philip K. Dick. I've read a few of his novels. I read that as well, its totally different from the film. <br />P: The Spice Girls Movie is excellent. <br />R: It gets 4 out of 5 from you doesn't it? <br />P: Its the most enjoyable ninety minutes of my life. I thought it was excellent. <br />R: You did get quite effervescent. Were you not quite bubbly after? <br />P: I was on a total high. <br />R: Fizzing over? <br />P: I had at least two vitamins passing through my body. <br />J: Which Spice was that due to? <br />P: You can't, you can't, you can't pick favourites. <br />G: You can dismiss Geri though, surely. <br />P: Er, Mel B. I still like Mel B but anyway I'm also very drunk. <br />J: Are you nervous about tonights gig? <br />All: Yeah. <br />G: SHIT! ARGH! <br />J: Ever coming to Colchester? <br />R: Are we playing in Colchester? <br />Matthew: You wanna know when you're playing in Colchester? <br />R: Yes. <br />Matthew (after looking): You're not playing there. <br />R: I don't think you sound like Bianca from Eastenders. <br />J: No? Cool! <br />Matthew: Are you going to do something? <br />R: We should try and talk to you after the gig. <br />Matthew: You gotta talk to the Thurrock Gazette afterwards. <br />J: Thurrock Gazette? <br />R: Thurrock Gazette? <br />J: Why? Sounds like Fuck Gazette. Jill from the PR company said to me make sure you speak to Paul. Why was that then? <br />R: You should talk more in depth with Paul later on. <br />P: I dunno what I've been talking about. I'm very drunk you see. <br />J: What is the advantage of being on a major as opposed to an indie and vice versa, other than the obvious reasons? <br />R: Well, like for instance contacts and stuff like that. Justin's a magic engineer who's worked with hundreds of people throughout the years. Theres no way we would, if we were still just doing Dumb Sulk Trigger and were based in Scotland, have even have heard of him or anything. Things like that. <br />P: I think the advantage of being on a major label is, I mean say if you're on Creation you can say like what else is on your label: "oh, we've got Oasis, we've got Primal Scream, we've got Teenage Fanclub" and all this sort of nonsense. Bollocks to that. If you're on East West, you can say "we've got Jimmy Nail, we've got Simply Red, they're arena fillers!". <br />J: I think I better tape the Thurrock interview because they'll like sound professional when asking questions. <br /> <br />Since then they've done a barrow load of gigs. <br />They've released (in just over a year): <br />So Far So Spitfire EP <br />Hogwash Farm promo 10 inch <br />Violent Sundays EP <br />All That Cheyenne Caboodle EP <br />Rhino Rays EP <br />Candlefire <br />The Diesel Hands EP <br />and the <br />One Head Two Arms Two Legs album <br /> <br />My interview in No Pictures 3 was more sober and informative. <br /> <br />Dumb Sulk Trigger <br />PO Box 13220 <br />Galashiels <br />TD1 2YP <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270365185583884?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703635237260862004-12-10T10:33:00.002-08:002004-12-14T13:16:07.716-08:00UK SUBS <br /> <br />I caught Charlie Harper early this year when his band hit Colchester. He had green hair and was wearing a Dennis The Menace type jumper. He was really cool. Whereas a number of band people talk out of their arses, Charlie Harper is still a superstar after 20 years of playing. Many of todays rock stars could learn from his combination of intellect, correctly prioritised values and warm response. From the point of view of my generation, there are a number of links that make him/them relevent to us. Also of course music wise theres still plenty to be taken from them, punk with morals to go with energy. Henry Rollins described the UK Subs after playing with them: "The UK Subs were great. They rocked the place. I didn't see how a crowd like that would be into something with that much energy". <br /> <br />J: How are you today then? <br />C: How am I today? Erm, tired and emotional. And in need of a good sleep. <br />J: Why have you come to Colchester? <br />C: This was to be our warm up show to bring us out of hibernation. We've been asleep for the winter and we played a gig in London last night and that kinda woke us up. And I went out drinking all night afterwards. So, um, I feel a bit sick now. <br />J: How did it go last night? <br />C: Really, really good yeah. Yeah, hundreds of people locked out. Lots of our mates as well and I couldn't get 'em in because there wasn't a guestlist. So it was a bit awkward. <br />J: Who was playing with you then? <br />C: Just one band, called Zero Tolerance. And they are really, really good. A punk band with a real spirit and stuff. I think they're gonna do well and we're gonna get 'em support slots with us to help them out and the thing is I really love their music. And because we're friends we like having them around. They haven't even made a record yet. They're about to make a vinyl seven inch next week. <br />J: I hope you don't mind me asking you this but how old are you? <br />C: Theres a rule about that. You have to buy me a drink first you see. <br />J: First. What about after? <br />C: No, you buy me a drink and then I'll tell you, thats the way it goes. Put it this way I'm a grandpa. So you know, have a little bit of respect (laughs). <br />J: I once saw you in a magazine with a buspass. <br />C: Uh, well then you know. <br />J: When you started out what bands influenced you to start up? <br />C: God, you got to go back to the pre-punk days for that really. It was kind of watching Pete Townshend break his guitar to bits on stage and then Keith Moon demolish his drumkit and there was still this huge sound coming out, like an orchestra playing and it was John Eintwhistle on bass and he was just like putting out this fucking sound and I thought fucking hell that sounds like a complete orchestra. He was a bit good but I thought fucking hell I'm gonna, I wanna play bass like that, so I became a bass player. And yeah that was kinda the first thing. <br />J: What current bands are you into? <br />C: A band called Pain. They're kind of one of these reggae punk crossovers like Citizen Fish, I love them too. Theres a lot of these kind of anarcho punk bands who are very very good. The whole scene is very very strong. And they have got their own scene. They don't normally play in a pub like this, just a regular music pub, they've got their own squat gigs throughout the world. So they're not that easy to see unless you're part of the underground thing, you know? Theres a lot of good bands out there and normally its cheaper to see them. And beer's cheaper at these places. <br />J: Who is in the current UK Subs lineup? <br />C: We got Alan Campbell on guitar, he's been with us five years now although when I go to America every year, I play with a different band over in America. Last year when I went over to America I played with Nicky Garrett and Alvin Gibbs which was quite a blast, it was good. We've got a new rhythm section over here which is Andy F, very trendy in't it Andy F, on bass, very good bass player. He kinda matchs Alan because Alan is a very good guitarist and now we've got someone up to his sound level and noise level. And Gary from Stains, who you've probably heard of, on drums. He plays very much in a Pete Davies style so it still sounds how the Subs should sound. And Alan learned to play guitar by listening to Nicky Garrett in the first place, so its kind of kept it in the family. Its just a like hand it down tradition. My god we sound like a folk band! <br />J: You said when you play in America you have a different lineup. Do you think that theres a really good scene in America as opposed to this country? <br />C: There is but not as opposed to this country. Lots of people get fed up with the English scene and all that and how England's dreaming. You know, boy bands, girl bands and this kind of pop stuff, "will the Spice Girls top the Teletubbies" and you know, England's just in a fucking dream. I mean it really is, nothings changed since 77, its still kind of crap out there in the commercial market and we're a good alternative. I think punk is healthy and well in England. <br />J: Is it true that you used to have a member of Rancid in your lineup? <br />C: No, Rancid have got a UK Sub playing guitar with them. I mean they can't go wrong can they. Soon as Lars joined Rancid they had the UK Subs guitar sound to go with Clash vocals and melodies and they couldn't go wrong. Its a much better thing than the Clash had. <br />J: I was listening to I Live In A Car earlier. What was that song about? <br />C: Its just about living in a tour van and not seeing much of anything else. The basic idea was that when the taxman or anyones after you you're never there, you're in the van, you're away somewhere else. Thats the kind of basic message, whenever anyones trying to get money off you you're not in. Which was very very convenient. Most of the time. <br />J: You get mentioned in the Black Flag book. Do you have any memories of playing with Black Flag when they came over? <br />C: Oh yeah. I did read it and its funny because he mentioned when we saved him from the skinheads and things like that and I'd forgot about all those things but reading the book did kind of bring them back. You kind of tend to forget a lot of heavy times and bad times and remember all the good times and have a good laugh about them time and time again but the bad ones, lucky enough, they do go unless they're very heavy like having a gun pointed at your head or something. And you don't forget that in a hurry. <br />J: Did you like Black Flag? <br />C: I did I went to see them every time they came over to England and I wore a White Flag t-shirt and Henry loved it. <br />J: I've heard you make about £15,000 a year, you're living, off the Guns N' Roses song. <br />C: Oh no no no. Wow, no, no. I'll tell you how that went. We probably earn about, in a good year, 15 grand period, from touring, royalties, everything. I mean someone must have got that from somewhere out of the blue and its a good average actually, kind of a good assumption. The Guns N' Roses thing was completely seperate. The Guns N' Roses thing is a very sad thing because we stand, you know the NME wrote we were gonna, to get £100,000 from it. The initial money, our money from the song, was around £100,000 but by the time it got through our publisher, who was screwing us at the time, we had to have a court case against them. It came to about, taxed and through all these agencies, it was down to £30,000 and this was shared between three people. And I don't wish to be bitchy or anything but really to get the record straight me and Alvin wrote that song, Nicky kind of put his name down somehow because he does that, he writes out all the little details and somehow he wrote his name, and hes done it on the new album as well, but somehow he put his name down on it. So he was standing to get 10 grand. The thing is that our court case cost us 27 grand. So we had to pay that and we ended up getting a grand each. So it was a very sad affair but we did win the case and our money started coming through to us from way back, and then we did get a whole bunch of money, like five grand, in a lump sum. It put us on the road and we could buy lots of t-shirts and do all the things we wanted to do, like get a new van. <br />J: Did you like their version of Down On The Farm? <br />C: Yeah, I thought it was very good, probably better than we could do. And they rearranged it and put a UK Subs stop in it which was something quite good because Alvin wrote the music and didn't put a UK Subs stop in it and so now we do it. Our record company wants us to re-record it. We even made that stop a little bit longer and made it a true UK Subs stop. Yeah, we were really quite happy with their version and you know it was a big big comment a band like that. We didn't really think that the biggest band in the world would do a cover of us. There you go but as with the money involved we missed out. And everyone thinks theres lots of money in music but by the time it filters down to the musicians and the writers, there is very little left. I'm glad I went on record saying that because it is true, any musician will tell you. I would like to underline and state that quite profoundly. <br />J: Theres another cover version I like, its the Fastbacks' version of Time And Matter... <br />C: Oh wow, yeah, aren't they good. Wow, they're better than us as well. <br />J: Really? <br />C: Yeah. We met actually. They came to our show in Seattle and I was talking to the girl (Kim Warnick) in the van for a long time. She was really kind of over the top, big UK Subs fan, and she said could we play Emotional Blackmail and I said "well sure we always play Emotional Blackmail, its always in the set" but for some reason that night we didn't play it, everything was in a rush, the van broke down on the way to the gig, and it was a big big gig. We were all like, our nerves were torn apart. And somehow we missed out Emotional Blackmail and we had to shorten the set a bit, being late and everything. And she went away in tears, that poor girl. I felt very guilty about that. The Americans get very emotionally involved in these things. I thought I might pull her as well. Yeah, write that down (laughs). <br />J: Did you like the Seattle scene a few years ago? <br />C: The Seattle scene is always strong. Theres always a very strong underground, ground level scene in clubs and bars. The small underground scene is always really red hot in Seattle. And there, I was taken to see someone, like people who'd broken away from Soundgarden, their offshoot band (sounds like Hater). The club scene's always been on the smallest levels, nothing like Nirvana or anything like that. I think if Nirvana were around in 1977 they would be classed as an out and out punk band. <br />J: Who did you play with there? <br />C: Our tour support band were called Anti Flag and they were from Pittsburgh. And they were really shit hot. They've got a song called Die For Your Government and it really is a shit hot song. Check it out. <br />J: Did you like the Washington DC scene? <br />C: Yeah, we knew a lot of those bands. My favourite band that came out of that scene was Bad Brains. That was a very good scene. A couple of years ago we actually played down the 9.30 Club again, where it all started. I can't remember where we played last time but it was probably even a better club. <br />J: How longs this current tour going to be? <br />C: The last thing we did was Europe at the end of last year and we just played our first gig for like six or eight weeks last night. So as I say we've just come out of hibernation and started out again. We haven't rehearsed, we had to do a lot of writing. We're going in to do a vinyl seven inch single on Monday. And we're kind of writing for all kinds of things in the future. <br />J: Which label will the single be on? <br />C: It'll be out on Fallout which is a part of Jungle Records in London. I can't say any further than that because we haven't even got a title for it. <br />J: Will you be playing a lot of new material on this tour? <br />C: We're gradually getting new material in. First of all, the first thing we gotta do is break in the drummer who is pretty new. He likes a few of our older songs and he wants to do them, so we're bringing back Blues, I.O.D. and Lady Esquire. Very dodgy but he likes them so we're doing them and then we're working on some stuff from the new album. <br />J: Do you think Punk Festivals are a rip off? <br />C: Oh right, yes. I hate to say that. I'll go to them anyway. The way I see it is I book my holidays for Holidays In The Sun, so thats my holiday. You know like going up to Morecombe, booking into a hotel for four or five days and staying up there the whole while. So thats my holiday so I don't feel ripped off but I think the prices are really really a bit over high and the guy kind of doesn't really make that much money because not enough people go to it to get him his profit. So you know just enough people go to it to almost pay. And I think the Black thing, he still owed a lot of the bands. Luckily it was a lot of the bigger bands money, bands that demand, wanted ten grand and stuff like 15 grand, and he didn't pay them all or at least straight away. So the only place that makes a really ripping profit is the actual venue and the venue did so well. The Dome did so well that they want the whole thing back at the Dome in Morecombe, so I mean they really did make a lot of money from the bar there. I'm working on, Charlie Harper is working on, an alternative thing to keep the price down for a whole day of good bands and just keep the price down to £5. I'm gonna try for it anyway. I've also got these plans to getting a venue eventually actually run and owned by the punks for the punks, so punks actually work there so they have jobs. I did ask the government for help and everything. So this is what I'm planning for the future. You know if the government don't help us then, well they're either for us or against us. They keep saying they're looking after the most vulnerable people in the country and they're just using that as some kind of a propaganda. We're gonna hold them up and say "look these are the people we can give work to, they can join in, people who don't want to conform to like normal society. They all want to be a bit outside society and we should cater for these people, they're part of the country as well. In fact they're a very integral and important part of the country because its always been the English oddballs who are the ones who are the inventors and the artists who pull society up a little bit". If they don't listen to us, well they're hypocrites. I can probably say now that they're not going to help us and they're going to be hypocrites because thats the way in works. <br />J: Where would you hope to have the venue? <br />C: Theres a venue called the Powerhaus. It was the George Robey and they pulled reasonable people in there and its got a late license. Its not like it was anymore, its a bit sterile. They know they made a mistake ripping it down and painting it up like a rave industrial kind of place but you know punks getting strong again and punks packing out again and I think I can get something going in there. The people are really interested and what I first want to do is, there was a guy who used to run the punk things there on a regular weekly basis and he just died at the end of last year, and we want do a benefit for him, and buy him a headstone, first off and then see if we can get it on a regular basis. <br />J: What do you think of the prices of CDs? <br />C: They are high in England, they are unnecessarily high. I mean I really cringe when I see our CDs in shops for like £12.99 or £13.99 whatever. <br />J: What do you think of Mark Brennan and Captain Oi!? <br />C: Mark Brennan's been keeping a lot of the punk and Oi! going. Mark Brennan's kind of one of the instigators of keeping the whole scene going. <br />J: What do you think of Oasis? <br />C: Oasis? You could kind of discuss the music. Theres a thing in America called Retro Pop and its bands like Oasis who copy the Beatles, Pink Floyd and put all their hits into their own music. Well its kind of sussed in America because more people have got the Beatles, and you know they really went mad on the Beatles and Pink Floyd over there, so all Americans know every note of what they're playing and where they've thieved every note from, so Retro Pop's a little but frowned upon. They're not as popular out there as they are in Europe but I think they've just a formula and they've copied the best and people say if you copy the best.... I'm not into Oasis but they do what they do well. They're not part of the scene I'm in, they're part of the big business, big money scene. Now they've got their big money now and they want to retire. <br />J: What do you think of them as people? <br />C: I quite like the way they slag off the press and give the press a hard time. I really love that. <br /> <br />Thanks for not slagging me off and giving me a hard time. I love that. <br /> <br />Charlie Harper also plays in a band called The Bettie Page Experience that plays music as heard in the pin up's films of the forties (I think). In other words seedy guitar instrumentals. <br /> <br />I think the Powerhaus thing may have got of the ground in one form or another. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270363523726086?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703612315936962004-12-10T10:33:00.001-08:002004-12-14T13:16:33.476-08:00Marc Riley <br /> <br />Radio One will never be what it once was. The remaining DJs Lamacq and Peel are good guys, albeit with sometimes questionable tastes they more than make up for, but they just aren't Radcliffe or Riley. The Mark and Lard show began on the old format Radio Five with Hit The North and, believe it or not, around the early nineties Radio Five was an excellent station. It still had sport but at ten (or there about) came yoof shows. In addition to this Radio Five had knockout docushows about cult heroes (Sid Vicious, Lenny Bruce), horror film docus (Spinechillers) and crappy fifties American radio shows (X Minus One, Dragnet etc) which just rocked so fucking hard. Mark and Lard were in the middle of that. I remember hearing, amongst others, The Fall, Beatnik Filmstars, Butthole Surfers and S*M*A*S*H for the first time on that show. I recall listening to them interviewing FMB one summers night as my parents were on holiday in Brighton and I was doing my own version of Home Alone, aged 15, convinced there was some pervert in the back garden. Then they went to Radio One when Radio Five became an all country station. I remember rediscovering their show, waiting to pick up my olds at Clacton train station around midnight in summer 1994. That night David Yow was reading Charles Bukowski and I first heard Neil Young's song Piece Of Crap, which I couldn't believe. Then came a week of Henry Rollins' tour diary and I became hooked again. Their show got me back on the right tracks with regards to music. Their ten to twelve show, Monday to Thursday, always began with two classics which, shock horror, were bona fide classics. Then came Radcliffe's little gag and then until midnight the nation was fed a non-playlist of the best current releases and basically anything from anytime that was cool and rocked. It remains the only time I've ever heard Black Flag on Radio One. It was also home to where I first heard the Pixies, Suicide, the Meat Puppets up to the Delgados, Bis and Kenickie amongst other cool stuff. Thursday nights would see Mark Kermode do a Cult Film Corner which was a blast, covering stuff like Russ Meyer, Clerks, Star Wars and Repo Man. And the sessions were live with band interaction which was something that put them above the sessions elsewhere. Mark and Lard took the piss out of everything in sight. They had the coolest, hippest show and still acted like hyperactive lemons. The transition to the mornings was never going to work. Replacing Chris Evans with them was like replacing Ned Flanders with Barney Gumble and Krusty The Klown. Basically ten to twelve was their audience, students and people with senses of humour, and them playing to the morning crowd was like "running into a Klan rally wearing a Boy George costume" - Bill Hicks. Then along came Zoe Ball and Kevin Greening (Selma and Patty) to do the mornings and Radcliffe and Lard were switched to two to four in the afternoon, where they now rot. No one listens to the radio from two to four. Have you noticed how the rise in gang activity coincides with Mark and Lard's fall from grace? Seriously though, hasn't music really began to suck since they left the ten to twelve slot? Mark and Lard will always be remembered round these parts for bringing as much to music for me as anybody else. An insane injection of sanity in the fucked up world of music. <br />Mr Marc Riley answered these questions. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever punched Radcliffe? <br />MR: No! <br /> <br />NP: Did you really once bite someones ear off when they stole a chip off your plate? <br />MR: No! <br />NP: (I have him on tape saying he did!) <br /> <br />NP: What do you think of your popularity in Loaded magazine? <br />MR: We're not popular with anyone are we? <br /> <br />NP: Give us the story behind Oink magazine? <br />MR: My mates (Patrick - 'Studio Audience' and Tony Husband - 'Yobs' - Private Eye) were the editors. And despite the fact that I couldn't draw, made me a cartoonist! Stroke of luck that eh! <br /> <br />NP: Do you still bare any grudges towards Viz? <br />MR: Give over! <br /> <br />NP: Whatever became of Stench Trench? <br />MR: Split up due to musical indifference! <br /> <br />NP: Can we have that Creepers discography in full please? (I'm not taking the piss) <br />MR: No. <br /> <br />NP: Please, please, please let us, Gringo Records, release a Creepers single <br />MR: No. <br /> <br />NP: How are the twins? <br />MR: Very well thanks. They're still in the Isle Of Man. Kev still cuts cat's tails off and Paul is now Chief Punishment Administrator for the local nick! <br /> <br />NP: Your face doesn't match your voice. Have you ever considered plastic surgery? <br />MR: I'll take that as a compliment...for now. <br /> <br />NP: Is the Al Jourgenson/Jello Biafro power vomit side project band Lard a tribute, an homage if you will, to yourself? <br />MR: I would have thought so! <br /> <br />NP: Are you and Mark E. Smith still mates? <br />MR: No. <br /> <br />NP: Was there a love triangle between you, him and Brix? <br />MR: No, not for want of trying....on their part. <br /> <br />NP: Have you met the Spice Girls? <br />MR: No, but they were lucky enough to speak to us on the phone (We Love Us competition). <br /> <br />NP: Which is your favourite? <br />MR: Sporty. <br /> <br />NP: Why is Mark Lamarr called Monkey Boy? <br />MR: Little ears like a chimp. <br /> <br />NP: You're not very fat. Are you on Slimfast milkshakes? <br />MR: No. I'm the athlete of the team - squash 4 times a week, sex once a month. <br /> <br />NP: Is Patrick (the Studio Audience) a fatty? <br />MR: No, he's as fit as a butchers dog. <br /> <br />NP: You are a comic genius. Who are your influences? <br />MR: Lenny Bruce, Lenny Henry, Lennie Bennet. <br /> <br />NP: Is Radcliffe Frank Sidebottom? <br />MR: No. <br /> <br />NP: Whatever happened to the Jimmy Nail voodoo doll? <br />MR: Ritual burial - didn't seem to work though. <br /> <br />NP: Who does Shit Agent currently represent? <br />MR: Just me and him. <br /> <br />NP: Are you a grumpy sod in real life? <br />MR: No. <br /> <br />NP: When I was little, I saw Worzel Gummidge in Brightlingsea. Unfortunately he kicked a toddler up the arse. <br />MR: Good on him I say! <br /> <br />NP: Who's your all time favourite band? <br />MR: Dave Bowie and the Dave Bowie Band. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever appeared on Crimewatch UK? <br />MR: Not that I'd admit to. <br /> <br />NP: Can I have a naked picture of you for the fanzine (and to show my mum) <br />MR: Just get hold of issue #23 of Razzle - page 43 - "One For The Ladies". <br /> <br />NP: Danny Baker is obviously an influence. What particularly do you like about his style? <br />MR: Give over. <br /> <br />NP: Your nose seems to be a bit wonky. Has it ever been broken? <br />MR: No, unlike yours if I get me 'ands on you! <br /> <br />NP: Are the Shirehorses the hardest working band in the business? <br />MR: Give over. <br /> <br />NP: Have you got a TV show with Caroline Aherne in the pipeline? <br />MR: If you believe Mr Manchester Diary (Manchester Evening News). <br /> <br />NP: You two briefly did a show called Wot? What was that on and how many did you do? <br />MR: BBC 2. One show. <br /> <br />NP: Anything else? <br />MR: Give over. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br /><a href="http://www.markradcliffe.com">www.markradcliffe.com</a> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270361231593696?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703592606067932004-12-10T10:33:00.000-08:002004-12-14T13:15:44.893-08:00Bis <br /> <br />Have you heard of Bis? Of course you fucking have. Sci Fi Steven is the one who runs Teen-C Recordingz and kindly answered my questions. He, John Disco and Manda Rin will have their new record out this year on Wiiija (in the UK) and Grand Royal (in the US). Sci Fi Steven is exactly six months and two days older than me. Despite a petty, stupid backlash they're still here. And are moving onwards, refurnishing their sound, fitter than ever. Good! <br />"the best use of a drum machine since Big Black" - the Beastie Boys <br />FYI: Bis were the first Chemikal Underground band I heard and the initial CU record I bought. Their DIY ethic opened my eyes and probably my friends' also and pushed us to get Gringo Records up and running. <br /> <br />NP: How the hell are you? <br />S: Bloody radiant, sir. <br /> <br />NP: Are there any Bis side project bands? <br />S: Disco has Multiplex Cine-man, his techno collective. I have an as yet unrevealed hip hop alias. <br /> <br />NP: What did you think of Q (that wank mag for people who hate new music) dismissing you as one hit wonders? <br />S: Actually, Q were the only magazine to mention that we sold over 100,000 albums in Japan which is more than the NME did. <br /> <br />NP: What are the Beastie Boys like? <br />S: Our eccentric uncles. <br /> <br />NP: What yours favourite B Boy song? <br />S: "Finger Lickin' Good". <br /> <br />NP: Is it fun to do Top Of The Pops? <br />S: Can't remember, sorry. <br /> <br />NP: What about the Big Breakfast? <br />S: I wiggled my arse for Zag. Say no more. <br /> <br />NP: If you could work with anybody who would it be? <br />S: Graham Coxon. <br /> <br />NP: What was it like to be playing Reading while Metallica were? <br />S: Good until we weren't playing. We out rock those suckers anyday. <br /> <br />NP: Wouldn't it be cool if Steven Wells............. <br />S: wrote more about Belle And Sebastian <br /> <br />NP: What was the first record you bought? <br />S: Adam and the Ants' "Stand And Deliver". <br /> <br />NP: If you were stranded on a desert island which member of the band would get eaten first? <br />S: Me, cos I'm the tastiest. <br /> <br />NP: Which label would you like Teen-C to be like? <br />S: We aspire to the excellence of Slampt! <br /> <br />NP: Are there any planned future releases? <br />S: Pink Kross LP, Toenut 7" (when we can afford it). <br /> <br />NP: What are accountants? <br />S: People who steal your money. <br /> <br />NP: Who's your favourite Star Wars character? <br />S: The guy that was Mr Bronson in Grange Hill was pretty cool. <br /> <br />NP: What is Angela like? <br />S: A red, red, rose. <br /> <br />NP: What is the baddest thing you have ever done? <br />S: I dissed Ice T to his face, that's pretty baaaaddd! <br /> <br />NP: When was the last time you were in hospital? <br />S: When Angela decided to scrape her eyeball. <br /> <br />NP: Who's your favourite heavy metal band? <br />S: Sepultura, although they're not really metal, too good. <br /> <br />NP: Whatever happened to Paper Bulllets? <br />S: It became Letter Bomb and issue 2 should be done within the next year, hopefully. <br /> <br />NP: Was the Conspiracy A-Go-Go sample taken from Slacker? <br />S: Well done, sir. <br /> <br />NP: What will Bis be up to in the future? <br />S: Doing what bands do. New album in the summer. Touring. <br /> <br />NP: Anything else? <br />S: Not getting enough sleep. Getting stylish for once. Eating too much cheese. <br /> <br />Albums by Bis <br />This Is Teen-C Power (Grand Royal US mini album, 1996) <br />New Transistor Heroes (Wiiija, 1997) <br />Social Dancing (Wiiija, 1999) <br /> <br />Bis <br />PO Box 3821 <br />Glasgow <br />Scotland <br />G46 6JY <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br /><a href="http://www.bisnation.com">www.bisnation.com</a> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270359260606793?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703570645299452004-12-10T10:32:00.001-08:002004-12-12T17:07:48.453-08:00Secret Goldfish <br /> <br />I first heard tut Secret Goldfish on Mark Radcliffe's night time programme with the amazing single, Come Undone, back in the day. With two albums out so far, Aqua Pet....You Make Me (on Creeping Bent) and Jet Streams (on Marina) the four piece are comprised of Katy McCullars (vocals), Paul Turnbull (drum drums), John Morose (guitars) and Steve McSeveney (bass). Another single Dandelion Milk Summer made John Peel's Festive 31 and was a good 'un. Here's answers to questions answered by Katy: <br /> <br />NP: How long have you been going? <br />SG: About three years. <br /> <br />NP: Are you from Glasgow? <br />SG: No no no. Lanarkshire, the depths and beyond. I'm from East Kilbride, John's from a tiny village called Glassford, Steven's from Shotts. Paul's from Glasgow but he's an Edinburgher now. <br /> <br />NP: Do you fit in with other Glasgow bands? <br />SG: What do you mean? Like Lego? Who knows? We are us and they are themselves. I'd happily 'fit in' with some of them, but definitely not all of them. <br /> <br />NP: Rangers or Celtic? <br />SG: Celtic all the way. <br /> <br />NP: Who are your main influences? <br />SG: The Shangri La's, Blondie, the Buzzcocks, the Sweet, Subway Sect, Lovin' Spoonful. <br /> <br />NP: Where did you come up with name Secret Goldfish from? <br />SG: In 'The Catcher In The Rye' it's the name of Holden Caulfield's big brother's book of short stories. <br /> <br />NP: Do sea monkeys exist? <br />SG: Sea monkeys? Why not. There are sea horses so they're probably sea monkeys too I expect. <br /> <br />NP: What will your next release be? <br />SG: 'Punk Drone', as one side of the next Creeping Bent Singles Club single. The other side is a brilliant track by Scientific Support Dept. from Glasgow. <br /> <br />NP: Whats your favourite Woody Allen film or do you just think hes a dirty old sod? <br />SG: I like lots of them - Annie Hall, Manhattan, Sleeper... <br /> <br />NP: Do English people have Tartan Envy? <br />SG: No I don't think so but lots of Americans do. <br /> <br />NP: What’s the connection with Creeping Bent? <br />SG: It's the most innovative independent record label in Glasgow and we're happily glued together. <br /> <br />NP: Who is your favourite Simpsons character? <br />SG: Homer, because he's so obnoxious and un-PC which I like. John Morose is the Homer Simpson of the Secret Goldfish. <br /> <br />NP: Why did you cover Come As You Are? <br />SG: Because we liked it. The only reason to do anything. Also Marty Thau (New York Dolls/Suicide producer) asked us to do it specifically. <br /> <br />NP: Why was Jet Streams released on Marina as opposed to a British label? <br />SG: Because they approached us and they do good sleeves. <br /> <br />NP: Gentle Ben or Flipper? <br />SG: Flipper. Well actually Skippy to be truthful. <br /> <br />NP: Who is your favourite Star Wars character? <br />SG: I hate, loathe and detest Star Wars. <br /> <br />NP: What were you like at school? <br />SG: Style and hair-wise, very similar to Trisha Yates from Grange Hill. Otherwise very shy, good at English, abysmal at Maths and very busy snogging the school football team. <br /> <br />NP: What have you been doing today? <br />SG: Learning a Jonathan Richman song. Making broccoli and carrot soup and watching Ricki Lake. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever written for/a fanzine? <br />SG: We put out one issue of a Creeping Bent magazine. It was mainly personal rants and funny pictures. <br /> <br />NP: What do you think of Texas? <br />SG: I travelled through it for 2 days on a bus once and slept outside and went horse riding. Yeh, it's brilliant. If you meant the band - nothing. <br /> <br />NP: If you were stranded on a desert island which band member would get eaten first? <br />SG: Whoever was fattest at that particular time. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever heard of Colchester? <br />SG: It's in England somewhere. <br /> <br />NP: What are accountants? <br />SG: People who are good at Maths and enjoy counting. <br /> <br />NP: Do you think going DIY is a good idea? <br />SG: Yes. If things don't work out the way you wanted them to, you only have yourself to blame, therefore things usually work out just how you want them. It's harder work, but ultimately more workmanlike. <br /> <br />NP: What’s the best review you have ever got? <br />SG: Reviewers don't really have a clue. I don't like any reviews. <br /> <br />NP: Where is Strawberry Street? <br />SG: In Bologna, Italy in a whole block of streets named after fruits and vegetables. <br /> <br />NP: Have you got a favourite Spice Girl? <br />SG: No, I think they're all the same. <br /> <br />NP: What is Girl Power? <br />SG: Oh god. Something really silly and 90s. A female journalist once asked me what it was like to be a 'woman in rock' - I can't answer questions like that. <br /> <br />NP: What’s your favourite Chevy Chase film? <br />SG: I hate Chevy Chase. <br /> <br />NP: What else would you like to say that I haven't prompted you to say? <br />SG: Sorry for sounding so negative. If you'd asked me about 'Grease' I would've had many more positive things to say. It's very very grey and dreich and horrible up here right now and we're too busy looking forward to sunshine frolics in summer to think of anything else. <br /> <br />Creeping Bent <br />PO Box 3645 <br />Glasgow <br />G42 9AU <br />Scotland <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270357064529945?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703552048320132004-12-10T10:32:00.000-08:002004-12-12T17:08:45.773-08:00magoo <br /> <br />In years to come one of my claims to fame my be that I had heard of Magoo before they were signed to Chemikal Underground. Before Chemikal Underground laid out their Home Sweet Home mat, they were on Norwich's Noisebox which came in handy being from Norwich and all. It certainly will have kept bus fares to the studio down. Noisebox have released an album of their pre-Chemikal Underground releases, many of which are out of print. It'll be their Ten Rapid/Incesticide then. On Chemikal Underground they've done singles aplenty but most importantly they've put out the Soateramic Sounds Of..... album. We'll call it eclectic. A-Z And Back Again and Red Lines (Are Fine) are the singles the record has spawned. The highlight for me though is the solemn Queen Of The 8-Bus Singers. Catch them live and be subjected. They're made up of Andrew, Hodge, Dave and Owen. Guess the rest: <br /> <br />NP: Did you name yourselves after the visually impaired old gentleman? <br />Andrew: Yes we did. We were desperate for a name. <br /> <br />NP: I drive just like him. Do any of you? <br />Hodge: I drive slowly and sensibly. <br />Dave: I don't, I drive with speed and stupidity. <br /> <br />NP: Have you heard about Disney getting a bollocking for remaking Mr Magoo with Leslie Nielsen? According to certain Americans its not politically correct. <br />Andrew: I'd heard they were doing it. I hadn't heard about the Disney bollock stuff. <br /> <br />NP: Do you ever get confused with Mogwai because of your name? <br />Dave: Yes, how do you think they got where they are today? <br /> <br />NP: What's this about you having a split single with them? (SABBATH!) What song? <br />Dave: Fierce Panda single called something like "Two Sonic Scratches Of The Big Rock Arse - Magoo & Mogwai - Black Sabbath". Released on 23rd March. <br /> <br />NP: What will you be doing with Chemikal Underground record wise? <br />Andrew: We're releasing a single in May and a single and LP late August, early September, which is quite a long way off but how it has to happen it seems. <br /> <br />NP: Live you have covered Sebadoh. Whats your favourite Lou Barlow stuff? <br />Andrew: Bubble And Scrape, Vampire, The Freed Pig, the end of Dreams, Willing To Wait. Everything else. <br /> <br />NP: Who are you influenced by? <br />Dave: The Moon. <br />Hodge: Flaming Lips, Pavement, Zappa, Snake Pliskin, Bon Jovi, Super Furry Animals, Radiohead, Sebadoh, Stones, Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel. <br />Andrew: Captain Beefheart &amp; His Magic Band, Guided By Voices, Velvet Underground, Yo La Tengo, Husker Du, Mercury Rev, Love, Palace, The Fall, Ennio Morricone. <br /> <br />NP: How did you come to be featured on the first Rebellious Jukebox single? <br />Andrew: We were asked. We said yes. <br /> <br />NP: Are you mates with Andy from Totally Wired? <br />Andrew: We've never spoken to him but he seems like a fine fellow. <br /> <br />NP: What did you think of the other three bands on the single? (Waddle, Action Jacks, Soma Ride) <br />Andrew: I'm not a big fan of the other bands on the single. <br /> <br />NP: What do you think of Arab Strap? <br />Andrew: I think they are really good but variety is the spice of life. <br /> <br />NP: Do you realise how good the Red Lines single sounds played at 33 rpm? <br />Dave: Never tried it but I promise I'll have a go. <br /> <br />NP: When will the Noisebox compilation CD (DNA?) be coming out? <br />Dave: It was Monday 23rd March 1998 but not anymore. The CD was done wrong and is now being re-done right. Its called "Close Continental D.N.A.". <br /> <br />NP: What do you know about Noisebox and financial problems? <br />Dave: I know nothing about the financial situation of Noisebox but after the CD cock up, it is probably not good as it once was. <br /> <br />NP: Are you going to appear on a Hummy & Joey EP in the near future? <br />Andrew: Yes. <br /> <br />NP: Do many people think you're from Glasgow? <br />Dave: Yes, we always shock people with our english accents. <br /> <br />NP: Is Puff Daddy satan? <br />Dave: No! He's a rapper/R'N'B superstar with a soft spot for rock. <br /> <br />NP: Do you have a message for Lando? <br />Dave: ZZ Top - fashion for the new millenium. <br /> <br />NP: Who's your favourite Simpsons character? <br />Hodge: Homer. <br />Andrew: Homer or Mr Burns. <br /> <br />NP: Is Norwich home to many slack jawed yokels? <br />Dave: I don't know but Kings Lynn certainly is. <br /> <br />NP: Which is better: Norwich or Ipswich? <br />Andrew: I've only been to Ipswich once and I had a very nice time. Norwich is often good for second hand records. <br /> <br />NP: Is there a healthy scene in Norwich? <br />Andrew: There is certainly starting to be. <br /> <br />NP: Ever coming to Colchester? <br />Andrew: Yes, someday. <br /> <br />NP: How come Elefant are releasing stuff by you? <br />Andrew: 3 years ago they said that they would put some things out and they've only just got around to it. So anything they put out is very old. <br /> <br />NP: Why do you like Galaxie 500? <br />Andrew: Because it's beautiful music. And a most wonderful voice (which went a bit normal with the Luna stuff). <br /> <br />NP: What was it like playing with Prolapse? <br />Dave: It was great but we never got to play Poof Hitler football, Hetrosexual Churchill cricket or golf. <br /> <br />NP: Whats the most angry you have ever made somebody? <br />Dave: Very angry. <br /> <br />NP: Whats better/more evil: MTV or CCTV? <br />Dave: CCTV is more evil than MTV. MTV is better than CCTV. <br /> <br />NP: What are accountants? <br />Hodge: Accountants are nice persons who keep or inspect business accounts. <br /> <br />NP: Who's your favourite Metal band? <br />Hodge: Iron Maiden. <br />Dave: Saxon. <br />Andrew: MC5. <br /> <br />NP: What else would you like to say? <br />Dave: We can be e-mailed now. So much for lo fi. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 8) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270355204832013?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703515437058492004-12-10T10:31:00.001-08:002004-12-14T13:17:27.250-08:00Hirameka Hi Fi <br /> <br />Here we go. Hirameka Hi Fi were born out of the ruins of Teebo and Lando. A Colchester band doing something different and grabbing a bit of national attention for it, via Radio One. Hooray. Chris and Tom guitar there way home while also singing the blues as Dom and Steve Nice large it on drum and bass. Their live shows stink the joint up and bass and bass equipment often gets damaged. So far they've put out one single, Munchin' with another one shorty to follow (Play Hard EP). I got some words in with the Tom-Dom, post playing with Arab Strap, a night that saw a bass destroyed on the dancefloor: <br /> <br />J: What's it like playing live? <br />Dom: Kinda cool as long as you don't fall off your stool when you're playing drums (like tonight). <br />Tom: I enjoy playing because I always get really nervous at first and then I kinda get into it but I go real numb and I actually forget about like playing. <br />J: Which has been the best gig? <br />Dom: I thought the Garage was. <br />Tom: Yeah or Mogwai. It was nice playing with Mogwai and Aerial M. <br />Dom: Yeah because they're Scottish. <br />J: What has been the strangest contract stipulation they have made you agree to? <br />Tom: No bad language probably, considering that rock n roll is the music of rebellion and like you're not allowed to swear. <br />Matt: Did you agree to that? Where? <br />Tom: Every venue, no bad language, its been written in the contract you're not allowed to swear or any offensive behaviour. <br />Dom: But Arab Strap did. They're Scottish though. <br />Tom: I have to apologise for Dom's terrible Scottish accent. <br />Dom: I'm not Scottish really (in a Welsh accent). <br />J: Where is the future? <br />Tom: Behind you! <br />Matt: Are you sure you can afford to smash up guitars? <br />Tom: No we can't but Steve is passionate. <br />Dom: He's actually insane and no one's actually noticed yet. <br />Tom: He's been driven insane by the loss of his girlfriend. <br />Dom: Runover. <br />J: What's your favourite record of the moment? <br />Tom: My favourite record of the moment is Aphex Twin - Come To Daddy. Its about the only thing I've been listening to because I keep trying to record it and I keep fucking up the recording somehow. Like I'll miss off the first two seconds and I'll think "fuck it I'll listen to the whole side" and then I think no I'll have to record it all again. <br />Dom: Mine's the Tortoise tape Tom did me, the second Tortoise album. Its cool. <br />J: What are your long term plans? <br />Dom: Get a job, get some money, move out, get drunk..... <br />Tom: Marriage, semi, living in a shit estate on the outskirts of London and thinking I'm being really adventurous by going to a like dreary bar in Soho where loads of like diseased, evil people...... <br />Dom: ....who just mug people and they've got.... <br />Steve: I'm not Mr Lets Be PC but.....you know! <br />Dom: ....diseases you don't want to know about. <br />Tom: They've got style. Say that. That was sick. <br />J: How do you think you'd have done if you hadn't been from Colchester? <br />Dom: Er, we wouldn't all be cunts. <br />Tom: If we'd come from America, probably we'd be like all dead now except for Dom who'd have a filthy mullet and he'd go to like truck driving contests in Florida. Monster Truck Derby. <br />J: Is telly good or evil? <br />Dom: Good. <br />Tom: Evil: <br />Dom: Why? Why evil? <br />Tom: Its the drug of the nation. Its crap and depressing and on another level its like a total propaganda tool. <br />Dom: Yeah but thats for you though. I enjoy it. <br />Tom: Also its bad for you because of radiation, gives you cancer. And people waste their time watching TV when they could be out doing something like creative and interesting. People believe what they see on TV, like if they're told something on the news they believe it. <br />J: What's funny? <br />Dom: Tom. <br />Tom: Hot Shots 1 and 2 and the Monkees. <br />Dom: What's funny? <br />Tom: When we beat up Wig and he lets us. <br />J: Do people like you? <br />Dom: No. Crap name crap band. <br />J: What band is the anti-Hirameka Hi Fi? <br />Tom: Manic Street Preachers. <br />Dom: Reynolds. <br />Tom: No, Manic Street Preachers. The Reynolds are our friends. Symposium. <br />J: Cats or Dogs? <br />Tom: Cats. <br />Dom: Cats. I have got a dog but cats are cool. <br />J: Why? <br />Tom: Because they're intelligent and when they lick you it doesn't ming, it doesn't fucking ming! It just smells of nothing. And they bury their own shit. And they can look after themselves. And they've got attitude. And cats are also like gay but they're not bothered about it whereas dogs are. Dogs get guilt complexes. <br />J: Who's the most famous person you've ever seen? <br />Tom: Fergie. <br />Dom: Prince Charles. He passed in a car when I was on a coach. <br />J: Do you reckon you'll look good on telly? <br />Dom: No because we're all ugly and stink. He's got a growth, I'm red and he's mad and Chris is a wig. <br />J: Who's your favourite actor? <br />Tom: Kevin Spacey off my head. Ralph Meeker. He was in Kiss Me Deadly. He's really like straightfaced through the whole thing as it develops into a weird science fiction thing. <br />J: Swear. <br />Dom: Come to Clacton. <br />Tom: Buttfuck. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures issue 8) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270351543705849?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703498447106922004-12-10T10:31:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:31:38.446-08:00Whose Mistress <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270349844710692?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703462060933022004-12-10T10:30:00.001-08:002004-12-14T13:17:01.300-08:00Prolapse <br /> <br />COLMSFORD - a Prolapse interview <br /> <br />Prolapse worked their way into my heart as being one of my favourite live bands after seeing them on a number of occasions. They combined a straightforward line of nasty strange sounds akin to the Fall backing an energetic double act that made a person laugh and cry. Significantly better live than on record, this was a band that was able to release a record called Pointless Walks To Dismal Places and still have (sound) fun. <br /> <br />They panned out as Mick Derrick (vocals), Linda Steelyard (vocals), David Jeffereys (guitar), Mick Harrison (bass), Pat "Trip Dispenser" Marsden (guitar) and Tim Pattison (drums). Gone but not forgotten. "I know I need my head examined". <br /> <br />After patiently waiting for a future school teacher, who also happened to be Prolapse's biggest fanboy, to shut the fuck up and fuck off also whilst being told to get out the Cambridge Boatrace, a jolly alcohol influenced Mick Derrick offered to autograph a freshly purchased Sorted EP. "Piss off! Could we please tape a conversation with you?". And nicely nicely he said "sure". Pointing at Matt's Colonel Hannibal Smith chain smoking badge: <br />M: The A-Team was shit. <br />NP: No way, it was bonkers. <br />M: Murdoch was my favourite, can I just say something about Murdoch that I remember? I used to play bagpipes in a pipe band, and we played at the European Championships in Dunoon. Me and my pal were about 14 and we kept singing this thing that Murdoch was singing in the A-Team the day before. We kept going "give me some trash bags, give me some trash bags". He kept singing it. Afterwards we were wandering through these woods and we found a big black bag full of beer. I didn't really drink, but my pal did and he was drinking loads and I was kind of going "hmm, it tastes horrible". So there's a wee bit of A-Team conversation for you. <br />NP: So, what about the Chris Eubank meeting? <br />M: He was there. (pointing at Prolapse merchandise bloke etc Turk) <br />T: I saw him. I said "Chris Eubank! Quick get a photo!". <br />M: Well, Chris Eubank was standing on Brighton promenade watching this band down a railing. It was me and the drummer who went up and the drummer mimicked the way Chris Eubank was standing and did a kind of wanker sign. I stood back and hoped he wouldn't turn round and punch me in the face. He didn't and Turk's got it all on film. <br />NP: Did he have his monocle on? <br />M: No, he didnae but he had his massive big truck. He's got one of them like monster trucks. And he beeps his horn and waves at everybody before he gets out! It was great. <br />NP: Isn't he the mayor of Brighton or something? <br />NP: He's the King. <br />M: No, he bought the duchy of Brighton type thing, and it cost him about £15,000. He's trying to buy the pier and live on it. <br />NP: He's better than Prick Naseem isn't he! <br />M: Oh no, I like Prince Naseem. I'm a big boxing fan so I think Prince Naseem is fucking brilliant. He's a bit of a prick, but then all boxers are. <br />NP: What about Mike Tyson and the ear incident? <br />M: I like Mike Tyson as well but biting ears is a bit too, I dunno, he's too coked up to the eyeballs, it's really weird. <br />NP: Are you from Leicester then? <br />M: Aye, I live in Leicester. <br />NP: We're going to Leicester University. <br />M: Are ye? No doubt we'll see you. Come down the Durham Ox and we'll see you loads. <br />NP: So is this the year for Cha Cha 2000 <br />M: Aye, this is the year for Cha Cha 2000, we're gonae get to number one. <br />NP: Supporting Celtic though? <br />M: Ah well, they're the best damn team in Scotland and their players all are grand, for we support the Celtic for they are the finest in the land. We love them. <br />NP: Who's your favourite player of all time? <br />M: My favourite player of the moment is Johnny Doyle. He died in about 1982, he got electrocuted. He's still my favourite player, he used to score with his head against Rangers. I couldn't give a fuck about the new ones (laughing). <br />NP: One word for Rangers. <br />M: Ah, fucking pile of shite. That's one big word that, you can stick that all together - fuckingpileofshite. <br />NP: What was that you popped in Pat's pocket towards the end? <br />M: A tenner. <br />NP: Really? What was that for? <br />M: He shagged us. <br />NP: You would. <br />M: No, there was this thing we arranged to do before we went on stage. During "Autocade", the new single that I don't sing on, he's like "can you go get us a pint at the bar and get yourself one?" but of course we didnae play it tonight, so I just went and put the tenner back in his pocket. <br />NP: You're playing Chelmsford tomorrow. <br />M: I fucking hate Chelmsford. I hate Cheltenham. Any place with Chel in the name. Are you guys from Chelmsford? <br />NP: No, Colchester. <br />M: Oh, Colchester's alright cause you've got those nice army guys! No, I'm talking shite. <br />NP: You have a support band called Magpie playing with you tomorrow, they're shite. Whenever we've been there recently they've been playing. <br />M: Right, I'm going home already! The last time we played Chelmsford we had two support bands and they were fucking shite! We were talking about this in the van the other day, we were not looking forward to fucking Chelmsford cos it's the most shitty place to play ever. The only people you get there are like people with no fucking ears. (AGAIN!?) Are you guys from Chelmsford yourselves? <br />NP: No, Colchester! <br />M: You're from Colmsford. Colmsford!? So you're from Colmsford, that new place I've just invented! Instead of thinking up a great headline can you just put "Colmsford" at the top of the article? Just put "Colmsford" and people will go huh? Turk I've just invented a new name! <br />T: Ooooo! <br />M: Have you seen Turk's "Bamboozle" t-shirt? Have you ever played Bamboozle on Ceefax? You play this rubbish quiz, and he sent off for the t-shirt. I'm getting you in for posterity in this fanzine, Turk. <br />T: I should be in the fanzine more than you, I'm much more interesting. <br />M: That's what I'm telling them. <br />NP: It looked very wet on stage tonight. <br />M: Ah no, I'm as dry as a stick. It's alright. <br />NP: Does Linda mind you playing with her hair? <br />M: No. <br />NP: Do you end up having fights? <br />M: Er, ....... no comment! <br />NP: When I do that to girls at college they slap me. <br />M: She doesn't really slap me, she just kicks us a lot. Well, she usually just bites my ankles cos she's so big. <br />NP: Can you run Linda's joke by us again? <br />M: I wish I could! I don't really understand it: "what's the difference between a duck?" - nothing. Is it one of those jokes like: "what's white and wears tartan trousers? Rupert the fridge". Is it like one of them jokes? No, that makes sense actually! I know a joke that does nae make sense that I can nae remember. Ah, there it is! You got it! (he then notices Arab Strap are in our fanzine). We did a joint tour with them. The worst gig was in Carlisle. They were headling, we were shite, they were shite but we went onstage and had a fucking brilliant time. We didnae sing any songs we usually sing, we just made up loads of songs. It was just us and them down the front with loads of tables, just kind of watching. <br />NP: Are they pleasant people? <br />M: Oh aye. They've got bad press, but probably put about by their manager to make them more cool. They're bit softies, fuckin' teddy bears the lot of 'em. <br />NP: Aidan looks like Tony Slattery. <br />M: But so do some other people. <br />NP: Have you ever been told you look like Martin O'Neill? <br />M: No, but I've been told I look like Eric Cantona. I've also been told I look like King in the 80s. In the old days I looked like King! (now just Paul King from VH-1) <br />NP: He had a mullet. <br />M: Martin O'Neill? No, Martin O'Neil surely? Maybe I do. I'll ask Turk, he's a big Leicester fan. Last week we stayed in Brighton for a couple of days to get pished, we were with pals, and I'm a massive Celtic fan as you know and we went to a Scottish pub and we were arguing with Livepool and having a great time. Everything was hunky dory. Turk then came down and they put on the Leicester game and Turk was like (waves arms about wildly and cheers). It was great. Hey, Turk, Leicester! <br />T: Don't talk to me about that fucking penalty! <br />(enter Prolapse bassist also, frustratingly, christened Mick!) <br />Mb: How ya diddling? Have you got any questions for me? <br />M: Talk about bass players. <br />NP: Is Marc Riley a hero? <br />Mb: Yeah! Ho ho! <br />M: "I've got a head like a boiled egg". I'm a big Marc Riley and the Creepers fan. <br />NP: I'd kill for one of their records but can't find any anywhere. <br />M: I've got them all my good man. I bought "Carry Me Cale" the very first single they did. Talk to them about your problems, tell them about the magnets Mick. <br />Mb: I've got this problem where I've got a metal plate in the back of my head so everywhere I go I get attracted to metal. <br />M: You've got magnets in your bass that affect it. <br />Mb: There's a big stigma about people with metal plates in their heads. They think you're crazy. <br />NP: You can't skydive. <br />Mb: That's rubbish. I've skydived loads of times. The only thing is cos there's magnets in my bass my head keeps getting attracted, so it looks like I've got a bad back. <br />M: Remember when you skydived into that big magnet field? <br />Mb: That was a bit of a risk. I was supposed to skydive like that (indicates straight down) and I went at a 45 degree angle into a big magnet field. I was sticking out like that with my legs up. <br />NP: Is it true that when you stand next to a microwave you piss your pants and forget who you are for half an hour. <br />M: Aye (laughing) <br />Mb: It happens all the time but it doesn't bother me, you just get prepared. You wear your colostomy bag and all that shit. Scalectrix have got magnets in. So every time you press go on your car, and you think everything's going great, you get attracted to the car and it sticks against your head. <br />M: Remember when Henry bought you a bag of nails? <br />Mb: Oh, them nails were unbelievable! I just had all of these nails sticking out of my head. (the two Micks start walking off) <br />NP: Er, whose your favourite Simpsons character? <br />Mb: Er, Homer. <br /> <br />An incomplete discography consists of: <br />Singles: Crate EP (Cherry Red) Jan 94 <br />Pull Thru' Barker (Cherry Red) May 94 <br />Doorstop Rhythmic Bloc (Cherry Red) Sept 94 <br />When Space Invaders Were Big (Cherry Red) May 95 <br />TCR (Lovetrain) Nov 95 <br />Flexed (Lissy's) Nov 96 <br />Killing The Bland (Radar) Apr 97 <br />Autocade (Radar) Sept 97 <br /> <br />Albums:Pointless Walks To Dismal Places (Cherry Red) Oct 94 <br />Backsaturday (Lissy's) Nov 95 <br />The Italian Flag (Radar) Oct 97 <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 7) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270346206093302?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703432507420612004-12-10T10:30:00.000-08:002004-12-12T17:12:36.096-08:00Steve Lamacq interviewed us <br /> <br />Here is a really early one from the first days of Gringo Records. <br /> <br />Return Of Lamacq (geddit?) was Radio One from Colchester in December 1997! I wrote him and sent him a record hoping he might play it and instead he asked us (me and Matt) on the radio to talk about the town known as Colchester. Along with Lamacq came Ash and Symposium. Ironically in the same year that Mogwai played the Arts Centre, this was the venue's "biggest and best" show of 97. The Arts Centre capacity is about 200 so naturally the towns sheep snapped up all the tickets in minutes. I wasn't, I didn't. Blag one, I tried. I was offered 2 at the price of £20 each by Dwayne Time Records. I declined the offer. I'd genuinely have liked to have seen Ash. Symposium however are lame and always will be, even though I look like William (except I'm not in a crappy band). I snuck my dickphone into the interview and pre-interview I think I unintentionally insulted Steve Lamacq. Sorry. Transcribing this felt like being caught masturbating. We fucked up royally. The agenda was to lap praise on our hometown and we didn't feel like doing that (and lying). Post interview we doubted whether an would be used in the show at all. Pretty sweet, pretty funny. Its inclusion may seem egotistical but Radio One cut out at least half of the interview so it would be a shame if it never got heard/read in its entirety: <br /> <br />S: It is the Evening Session coming live from St Mary's Arts Centre, Colchester or at least from a truck outside parked on the street and er we welcome next Matt and, Jason from well the local scene really, both guys do fanzines, Jason's is called No Pictures and Matt does a fanzine with a couple of mates, called Damn You which has a pretty nice picture of Columbo on the front. So when I was around in Colchester there seemed to be very little going on, there were one or two bands but nothing very much of a scene but I believe it has got slight better.... <br />J: Yeah, yeah erm Teebo and Lando. We picked them up late last year, both from Halstead and we immediately made friends with them. <br />S: Teebo and Lando. <br />J: Yeah. <br />S: Which rhymes very nicely. You did a split single with them. <br />J: Yes, two songs by each. It was all recorded on 4 track, so its pretty lo fi. I was very happy, I loved it, certain people wasn't. <br />S: Tell us about er, give us a break down of some of the bands that are around at the moment. <br />J: From Colchester, Whose Mistress, they really are fantastic, it would be an insult to call them a punk band. When I saw them I thought they were very political, very direct. Other than that Hirameka Hi Fi are really cool. Tom from Teebo is one of them so there’s a Gringo link. Next single. Ripley. History wise we've had Blur, Special Duties both really cool bands. Blur went through a dodgy stage but their last album was fantastic. The previous two were a bit cheeky chappy but this ones gone back to the roots, really alternative, definitely against Oasis. <br />S: What’s the gig scene been like? Have many bands played here? <br />M: We've had quite a lot, it’s better than what it was. We've had a lot of bands we're into, Mogwai and Labradford and people like that. <br />S: And that’s at the Arts Centre? <br />M: Yeah, yeah that’s about the only venue really. There's the Twist which does local bands but the Arts Centre's been pretty good this year. Hopefully it will be good next year as well. <br />J: We've had Gold Blade, Panthouse (sic), they were really excellent gigs. Quickspace were good as well. And actually when Mogwai played here they had Arab Strap with 'em. Arab Strap are a phenomenal band. <br />S: What do you put it down to, with people doing fanzines and forming bands? Do you think people were just fed up that nothings going on? <br />M: I think that’s probably it. Now everybody sorts of meets together. Before we were sort of imagining people not doing a lot, stuck in their houses. Now they're getting bands going, doing fanzines. Things are happening because of that. <br />J: There’s some dodgy people in Essex. It’s a way of avoiding them and meeting decent people. <br />S: What are you saying Jason? <br />J: Oh, Essex. Colchester is a fine example of Essex. Essex is the meeting of farmers and London exiles. And of course you get your townies and your meatheads. <br />M: And you've got your army people as well. <br />S: So, er, as well as your fanzines, gigs and Gringo, are there any other labels in Colchester? <br />J: There’s another little label, Ye Gods. I understand they've put out two singles, Ripley and Imperial. (they're) not for us. They're not our sort of music but Ripley have actually had coverage. I know Melody Maker have. <br />M: I don't know if Ye Gods is still going. They haven't put anything out in a while. <br />S: I think there’s a couple of singles coming out in the new year. So with all these new bands coming out, where do you see it going? Not only on a local level but on a national level. <br />J: Gringo's really exciting. After the Hirameka Hi Fi single we hope to be involved with Bob Tilton. We was going to do a split seven inch with their own label but they've suddenly decided to do a ten or twelve inch which will hopefully mean we will do the split release with Subjugation. And I know you've made some contacts in Leicester. <br />M: Have I? Erm, no I haven't. Dunno. <br />J: Alright, he's met this mate in Leicester... <br />M: Oh yes.. <br />J: I don't know his bands name though. <br />M: Erm, San Lorenzo. <br />J: Yeah, there’s this band called San Lorenzo and hopefully we'll be working with them in the future. <br />S: So, one of the things about Colchester is obviously that people know Blur, it seems to me that instead of, er, a load of bands forming in Colchester, which I thought would happen at one time, bands that would form in Colchester would sound a bit like Blur, mods and Britpop influenced, we find that in fact bands that are coming through sound more like Sebadoh or Pavement, you know, noise led. <br />M: Its probably because Blur kind of distanced themselves from Colchester didn't they. I don't think people really think of them as being from Colchester. It’s not as if they're about all the time. <br />J: We've had our fair share of Green Day bands. <br />M: I don't really know why it is, just everybody's gone noisey around here. <br />J: I think it’s possibly a direct response. I know you look at the indie, so called indie now, I call it major label indie, you've got all this crap in the charts, erm stuff in the charts like Ocean Colour Scene, its all retro and horrible, the Seahorses and things like that, you can't hear the guitar. I think the whole indie circuit has gone underground again, it’s a complete reaction. I know, definitely on our level, its more attainable to be like this as opposed to like Ocean Colour Scene and to be honest we'd rather desire to be that way. We've got this band from Clacton called The Noize. They're getting like response. Apparently Virgin were interested. They're just dire and it really is worrying. We want music to progress. Even though we can't profess to be too up ourselves at least we're doing something more than them. <br />S: So what’s it like actually trying to attract an audience? I always remember going to gigs that were half full. Has it got any better? <br />M: Well, a lot of gigs I've been to haven't been too full. I know Belle And Sebastian sold out but that was kind of understandable because people came from elsewhere. And the same with this one tonight I think. I've been to a lot of gigs here where not a lot of people have turned up but it might well be due to advertising rather than people not being interested. <br />S: Do you think that there’s a problem that Colchester is quite close to London but in a way its not far away enough you know you get that situation where Manchester and Glasgow and places like that are so far away almost from the London music scene that they seem more romantic, whereas Colchester is almost on the music industry's doorstep? <br />J: Erm. yeah but just look at tonight I think if the bands come, people will come out. <br />S: Do you think it would be good if more bands came to play here? <br />J: It would be brilliant, yeah. <br />S: Excellent, best of luck with both the fanzines and the records. <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 7) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270343250742061?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703407825284442004-12-10T10:29:00.002-08:002004-12-12T17:13:21.786-08:00The Hitchers <br /> <br />From Limerick in Ireland come the Hitchers, the first band to sign to Murgatroid Records. If you listened to Peel much in 97 you were bound to have heard at least their homage to Gordon Strachan ("Strachan") and if you were lucky, their fantastic Peel session including "Human Skull". To date the've released three singles ("Killed With My Bare Hands", "You Can Only Love Someone/Strachan" and "Big Mug") and their debut album, "Its All Fun And Games Untill Someone Loses An Eye". The lineup is Niall Quinn (vocals/drums), Hoss Carnage (bass/vocals), Andy Gallagher (vocals/guitars) and Eric Fitzgerald (guitars/backing vocals). These answers are coming from......... Niall Quinn, Drummer - the Hitchers <br /> <br />NP: How long have you been together? <br />NQ: Although only Hoss and me remain from the original line-up, a band called The Hitchers did their first ever show on Jan 20th 1989. So nearly nine years. <br /> <br />NP: Who are your influences? <br />NQ: I listen to eveything from Arlo Guthrie to Sepultura but if I was to say who I think has influenced us I'd say the Housemartins, the Who, Half Man Half Biscuit, Smiths, Wedding Present, Wonderstuff and any old punk, punk/metal stuff. <br /> <br />NP: What was the first record you ever bought? <br />NQ: "Why" by Bronski Beat. <br /> <br />NP: Did you like the feature film The Hitcher? <br />NQ: Yeah, though it was our long moved on ex-vocalist Eoin who thought it would make a good name for a band. I don't like it too much. I think it sounds like a country rock pub band. <br /> <br />NP: What Rutger Hauer type qualities do you possess? <br />Niall: his innovative use of fingers. <br />Andy: his love of Guiness. <br />Hoss: his ridiculous Swiss ski-instructor haircut. <br />Eric: his ancientness. <br /> <br />NP: Was he better in the Hitcher or Blade Runner? <br />NQ: Far better rounded character in the Hitcher. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever met Gordon Strachan? <br />NQ: No, but we've come very close on a couple of occasions. He was fifty feet away from us at the Phoenix Festival but behind a security barrier. <br /> <br />NP: Do you know whether he has heard the song? <br />NQ: He has and apparently quite likes it. I've spoken to him a few times on the phone. <br /> <br />NP: Peel played it long before it was released. How'd he get hold of it? <br />NQ: John Peel had a copy of the "..Fun & Games.." LP because it was released in Ireland 3 months before it came out in the UK. <br /> <br />NP: When did you write that song? <br />NQ: I originally wrote it in 1992 and it sounded like a dodgy ripoff of Teenage Fanclub's "Starsign". So a year or two later when he retired I got all melancholic and re-wrote it. The team-mates mentioned aren't the championship winning side. They'd have played briefly together Sept/Oct 93 when Leeds were about 14th in the league. <br /> <br />NP: Whats the link between you and the Cranberries? <br />NQ: I'm afraid its rather more tenuous than some would like to believe. Basically back in 1989 myself and the three lads, Noel, Mike and Fergal, started a band called the Cranberry Saw Us! I was singing and playing guitar and, in fairness, was pretty crap. So we had a good laugh with it, did a dozen or so gigs and about five or six months later in Feb 90 I packed it in. It was quite an amicable divorce and I helped 'em out auditioning replacements and all that, one of whom, in April or May 90, was a girl called Dolores and the rest, as they say, is history. So I'm not quite the Pete Best/fifth Beatle type I'm sometimes made out to be. You'd be surprised thought the amount of people who think I used to sing Linger and that. <br /> <br />NP: What did you think of Chelmsford? <br />NQ: Unfortunately, as with many places we play in, I wouldn't even recognise Chelmsford unless I was shown my hotel room or the venue. <br /> <br />NP: Whats the best gig you've ever done? <br />NQ: I don't know if I could pin down a "best gig" but for me the Leeds gig (Duchess Of York) this year was special, a sort of spiritual homecoming, but places we usually enjoy would be Cork, Belfast, sometimes London...anywhere but Dublin. Fuckin' dump. <br /> <br />NP: How many telly channels do you get in Ireland? <br />NQ: We've our own three - RTE 1, Network 2, TNAG (Irish language) and all of yours except Channel 5. The regional one we get is UTV unless you're in Cork where they get the Welsh one (HTV?). So all the football is in Welsh Galic...gingganggullygullygullyRyanGiggsgullygullygullyGarySpeed!GOAL!! <br /> <br />NP: Who is endowed with most Girl Power. Shampoo or the Spice Girls? <br />NQ: Only a moron will consider me sexist for saying "Girl Power" is a bunch rhetorical bollocks and Slapper Spice, Shoplifter Spice, The Only One I'd shag Spice, Ethnic Minority Spice and The Underage One For Deviants Spice are a corporate sham for fleecing 9 year olds. <br /> <br />NP: If you were stranded on a desert island which band member would you eat first? <br />NQ: Hoss. Just to shut him up looking for the bright side of this hopeless situation. <br /> <br />NP: Who's your favourite Simpsons character? <br />NQ: Homer, no competition. I base my life on his example and learned teachings. ("thats lerned, boy" - Homer) <br /> <br />NP: Are singing drummers a dying breed? <br />NQ: I didn't know we were ever a living breed. I don't sing lead vocals live anymore. Too much hassle. I hope I'll still be singing in the studio though. <br /> <br />NP: What is your favourite Nirvana song? <br />NQ: Never like Nirvana much. All Apologies is a nice song though and Territorial Pissings off Nevermind is great too. <br /> <br />NP: Are there any Hitchers side project bands? <br />NQ: Well, Eric plays in a Glam Rock tribute band called The Alvin Purple Love God Experience and they're brilliant. Absolutely wild. I played with them once and loved it. Me and Andy do some pub sessions with a few mates but nothing serious. <br /> <br />NP: Which bands are you friends with? <br />NQ: As in famous bands? Lets see....well I've met Tjinder from Cornershop - nice bloke. So's Dave Gedge from the Wedding Present. Dr & The Medics are all great folks, went to a party with them once and ended up playing chess with the Doctor. He won. And I s'pose I'd still see the lads from the Cranberries down the pub. <br /> <br />NP: Which band member can drink most alcohol?' <br />NQ: Certainly not me anyway. I'd say Eric or Andy with Eric winning it by a nose. <br /> <br />NP: Is it true you're on the same label as Shane MacGowan's sister? What's her stuff like? <br />NQ: Yes, Siobhan MacGowan has jus finished her first album but I've not heard anything yet. <br /> <br />NP: Where are your big heads from the Big Mug video right now? <br />NQ: They're sitting in one of the Murgatroid offices I think. We may use them again. I was thinking of painting 'em grey and doing a Mount Rushmore type photoshoot with them. <br /> <br />NP: What were they made of? <br />NQ: Just cardboard and paper, they're quite robust though and weigh a fucking ton! You see out through the nostrils. Me and my girlfriend spent most of July building the damn things. <br /> <br />NP: Who is Easy Going Eric? <br />NQ: Eric Fitzgerald of course. A completely ironic cartoon as he's one of the busiest people I know. He juggles two bands, D.J.ing, running clubs and probably prostitution, drug dealing and gun running. He likes to wet his beak in entertainment. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever set fire to your home with "an unattended ciggie"? <br />NQ: No, I'd be pretty careful with cigarettes and that. Even when pissed. But after a night out last week I did wake up on a chair at 7.20 a.m. with an entire mug of cocoa and an encrusted toasted cheesie down my lap. <br /> <br />NP: Why are you called the Fabian 4? <br />NQ: The Fabian 4 has been described as a fan club, a mailing service etc. We still prefer to think of it as our military wing. Its named in honour of our mascot guru and single parent Fabian. <br /> <br />NP: Has one of Andy's farts ever killed anything? <br />NQ: Yes, my appetite, will to live and will to remain in the van, as well as a few other things that are subjudice and can't be spoken of here. <br /> <br />NP: What is the most angry you've ever made anybody? <br />NQ: Well we got smashed in Galway once and I told Hoss that though we've been buddies 12 years I've only liked him for a couple of months of it and he picked me up, threw me down a set of steps and broke one of my ribs. He was dead right too. <br /> <br />NP: What else would you like to add? <br />NQ: I'll get even. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 7) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270340782528444?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703388491807232004-12-10T10:29:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:29:48.490-08:00No Wings Fins Or Fuselage <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270338849180723?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703366318087082004-12-10T10:29:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:29:26.316-08:00Gravel <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270336631808708?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703348113243992004-12-10T10:28:00.002-08:002004-12-10T10:29:08.113-08:00RIP Radio <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270334811324399?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703327058433922004-12-10T10:28:00.001-08:002004-12-14T13:12:29.026-08:00Bob Tilton <br /> <br />Bob Tilton ruled the roast in the mid to late nineties, performing at the pinnacle of hardcore. They were one of the most exciting bands I have ever seen live and possessed perhaps my favourite homegrown vocalist ever. Emerging from Nottingham, the band took its name from a smart evangelist (in other ones a bent one) and soon out performed and outgrew the scene in which it remained lumped with. Far from the confines of conventional hardcore and or suffocatingly wet emocore the band pushed more musical boundaries by fusing and including elements of the bands that inspire them while still maintaining a fierce sense of urgency and venom. <br /> <br />The band seemed cursed throughout its existence. From the start they were stuck with the comparison and label of being the UK equivilent of Fugazi (which I must admit was what prompted me to first check them out), which was horribly misleading for those who investigated but also the tag seemed to stick harder down to the bands given stance of refusing to speak to the press, the same as Fugazi. And again, later as bands and the press discovered Spiderland by Slint, Bob Tilton were once more lumped in with another scene, very briefly called Slintcore. It all served to really misrepresent what Bob Tilton had been attempting and achieving. During their last two years in existence live shows being more sporadic as other priorities began to show. <br /> <br />They have a no compromise way of working which results in the mass music press mostly ignoring them, barring the occasional live review or single of the week. I have to admit even my knowledge is sketchy but to date they have released the Wake Me Up When It's Spring Time Again EP, Of Penknife And Pocketwatch 7" and earlier this year they released their debut album called Crescent. These have all been released on Subjugation. The proposed joint single release by Subjugation and Lovetrain seems off but hopefully two singles will be released together soon. One by Subjugation and the other jointly by Ambel and another label. Todays answers are coming from Simon in the absense of Neil, Mark and Allan and Chay <br /> <br />NP: Bob Tilton, he's a bad 'un? <br />S: Oh he is a very bad man, yes. <br /> <br />NP: Where do you come from? <br />S: Three of us are Nottinghamshire born and bred - no, scratch that, four of us although Mark is now living in Leeds. Chay is a Lincolnshire lad. <br /> <br />NP: How many records have you put out? <br />S: Oh, a small handful. One twelve inch record, two seven inchs of our own plus appearances on a few compilation records. We haven't been prolific in our lifetime. <br /> <br />NP: How long has the band been going? <br />S: Oh almost five years now. How time flies. <br /> <br />NP: Were any of you in any previous bands? <br />S: Judging by your next question you know the answer to that cheeky. Allan and I were in Downfall. I don't think Mark was in a band previously. Neil and Chay I'm not sure about. <br /> <br />NP: Did Downfall release/record anything? <br />S: We released one seven inch and one demo. <br /> <br />NP: How do you feel about always being compared with Fugazi? <br />S: Cheated. Personally they have never been an influence, nor do I particularly like them much, although I can't speak for all of us. Reviewers that compare us to Fugazi do so because they don't have any other handy reference point. <br /> <br />NP: You sound a hell of a lot more like them than most bands who get compared with them, don't you? <br />S: I don't think so. Fugazi gets mentioned because the reviewer is familiar with them and is doubtless familiar with no other bands that could be remotely compared to us. We sound more like Fugazi than we do the Beatles. <br /> <br />NP: Do you regard yourselves as hardcore? <br />S: No. Everyone has their own ideal definition of 'hardcore'. For many 'hardcore' is nothing more than a major label funded mosh pit and a pumping overpriced metal soundtrack. <br /> <br />NP: How about emo-core? <br />S: No, I don't like silly name-tags. <br /> <br />NP: And do you feel like you fit into those scenes? <br />S: See above. We came from a 'hardcore scene' background and played shows with hardcore bands pretty much exclusively shows put on by friends of ours, with bands that are friends of ours. We still play those shows and they're generally really good, but it's good to play with bands that aren't tagged by any sort of scene too; it's more interesting to pay before different audiences for one thing. I've definitely discovered some really good bands around that I had not been exposed to previously; bands that aren't labelled 'hardcore'. Labels can be quite limiting and alienating. <br /> <br />NP: I asked because it seems strange that you gig so much with Mogwai. HC bands generally don't crossover do they? <br />S: We've played a few times with Mogwai and we all really like them so playing gigs with them is fun. As for 'crossover' it's interesting that you, and of course and the press and indeed the public should draw such - a picture of a little cat - distinction between Mogwai and hardcore bands, when Mogwai don't differ much at all musically from a lot of HC bands, but just don't claim that label or play those type of gigs. <br /> <br />NP: Do you think they'll go far considering the style of music they play? <br />S: I think that depends on how good a manager they have, and how much good press they get. That goes for any band irrespective of how good they are. <br /> <br />NP: How has the Lovetrain single come about? <br />S: It hasn't. We were going to do the next 7" as a Subjugation/Lovetrain split release but neither Ian nor Bob Tilton has heard from Lisa (Lovetrain) in ages so I think it's off. <br /> <br />NP: Like Fugazi you used to be anti-music press (mainstream). How did you feel about the NME On feature? <br />S: We were never 'anti-music press' as such, just that I don't think we were comfortable with becoming involved with that sort of coverage and the vulnerability it entails. After a while we were approached about the 'On' thing and kind of thought 'OK, why not'. Once the feature appeared then I realised why not. I think it was shit. <br /> <br />NP: Did you feel that you needed wider coverage? <br />S: Maybe. The idea was just to try and let people know that we had a record out we were relatively pleased with....people who might otherwise would not hear of us or our record, but it finished up being a dumb waste of time. <br /> <br />NP: I think the album sounds a bit like Tool at times, but with a bit more kick. Is that all right with you? <br />S: Whatever. I've never heard Tool before. <br /> <br />NP: How was the Lovetrain All Dayer for you? <br />S: OK. I don't think we played too good. I, at least, didn't enjoy it, and felt very uncomfortable on that 'Garage' stage. <br /> <br />NP: Did you meet Michael Stipe? <br />S: Was he there? <br /> <br />NP: Are you for or against summer festivals? <br />S: I suppose they're OK. People seem to enjoy them don't they. I'd rather play at one than go to watch. It seems that in order to play a festival you need the persuasive influence of a manager. Am I right? <br /> <br />NP: Does the emo-core sound too much like Emo Phillips to you? <br />S: There is an 'emo-core' sound?? Is Emo Phillips still performing the gag about his apartment being replaced by an exact replica while he was asleep?? <br /> <br />NP: Would you do a session for Peel? <br />S: We did. Two years ago. <br /> <br />NP: Will you ever be on costly disc? <br />S: We have two album tracks on a compilation CD out of Swedan called 'Love Is A Dog From Hell', along with some Swedish bands and such. I wouldn't want our album on CD until we had enough new songs to add onto it. <br /> <br />NP: Do you like fanzines (and what do you think about them)? <br />S: I don't really read them, no. <br /> <br />NP: What do you think of Understand? <br />S: I've not seem them in over a year now. I think they are really good, though not really my thing musically. Lovely lads too. I only know a couple of the band, particularly Rob the guitar player, he is the most awesome guy. Don't know what their new stuff is like. <br /> <br />NP: And what about Fabric? <br />S: The same goes I suppose. I knew/know the band members pretty well and love them lots....great band live. We played with them quite a bit. <br /> <br />NP: You appear on the Carry On Sabbing tape. Is that a cause you strongly support and believe in? <br />S: It's a cause that we all agree with and support, yes. Although none of us have ever participated in Sabbing itself I don't think. <br /> <br />NP: Who are your favourite bands? <br />S: So many, so many. OK personal loves of mine: Palace, Smog, For Carnation, Mossican, Phil Ochs, Tim Buckley, Rex, Loren Mazzacane Connors, Rachel's, Gastr Del Sol, Tori Amos, Sunny Day Real Estate, Springsteen (yes, Bruce!) <br /> <br />NP: If you could be on any label, which would it be? <br />S: We have been happy remaining with Subjugation, they are nice folks. <br /> <br />NP: I think there is another band called Static now. Have you heard of them? <br />S: No, I've not. That name was used by us when we played our first gig as we hadn't decided on a name at that point and needed something for the flyer. Bad choice, as was it's successor. <br /> <br />NP: Are there any bands that you believe have signed to a major without selling out? <br />S: I really am no longer concerned with which band signs to whatever label. It may be something I wouldn't want to be involved with myself, but other people have different ideas. I love the music people make. I have criticised some bands in the past for dealing with big labels. I have also sat in my room with my thumb up my arse for long periods of time. <br /> <br />NP: I read somewhere that Mark wouldn't buy a CD player until he had to. Has he got one yet? <br />S: No I don't think so. You have been reading 'Earzone' fanzine haven't you? (yes, you've rumbed me guv) <br /> <br />NP: Are you still strongly against Barcodes on records and how would you feel if one was put on a record by yourselves? <br />S: I don't think we would ever be in a position where we didn't have the control to decide whether we wanted a barcode put on one of our records or not. And we don't. <br /> <br />NP: Why are you against distributors? <br />S: I'm not really. It's great ot have a record distributed by mail-order and independent distros that sell records at shows etc... Still I'm not against putting a record through small distributors that supply shops although I wouldn't want to go that route exclusively and not bother with the non-profit distros/mail-order etc side. I think that will always be the priority. <br /> <br />NP: Would you let a label use a distributor to sell your records? <br />S: Subjugation has actually begun to use Shellshock distributors. Some copies of our LP went through them to shops. I'm not sure if they'll continue with them or not. <br /> <br />NP: Whats your experience of Newtown Grunts? <br />S: Scottish 'punk rock' band prone to playing live wearing black dustbin bags spray-painted with pictures of genitals and words like 'fuck'. <br /> <br />NP: Have you heard of Gold Blade? What do you think of them? <br />S: It is my understanding that the Nation Of Ulysses were from Washington D.C. and split up a long time ago. Is James Brown out of prison yet? (hope so) <br /> <br />NP: Why didn't you play the Brighton Melting Vinyl All Dayer? <br />S: Allan met with an unfortunate injury to his right leg. It was suggested we play minus a drummer but, of course, that would have been foolish. <br /> <br />NP: Have you heard the rumours that you have actually split up? <br />S: Can't say I have, although I would like to. (see Stuart Mogwai and my friends) <br /> <br />NP: What is the most disgusting thing you have ever done? <br />S: Played a gig in Bradford thus missing Palace Brothers playing in Nottingham. <br /> <br />NP: Beyond the single what is next planned for Bob Tilton? <br />S: Oh we just played 6 shows in Europe which was great. We'd only ever been out of the Country for one gig in Belgium previously. So next should hopefully be two seven inch singles, but when is another question. <br /> <br />NP: What else would you like to put? <br />S: Watch this space. <br /> <br />selected discography: <br /> <br />"Wake Me When It's Spring Time Again" 7 inch EP (Subjugation) <br />"Songs Of Penknife And Pocket Watch" 7 inch EP (Subjugation) <br />"Crescent" LP (Subjugation) <br />"Crescent" CD (Southern) <br />"Leading Hotels Of The World" LP/CD (Southern) <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 6) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270332705843392?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703307838710412004-12-10T10:28:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:28:27.836-08:00Bette Davis And The Balconettes <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270330783871041?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703282074460412004-12-10T10:27:00.002-08:002004-12-10T10:28:02.073-08:00Gold Blade <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270328207446041?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703253887821692004-12-10T10:27:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:27:33.886-08:00Soulbossa <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270325388782169?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703234731392982004-12-10T10:27:00.000-08:002010-02-07T03:10:59.045-08:00Fresh released on record Lando are in training to assault the senses. A stinging four piece from areas circling Colchester have their first release out right now on Gringo Records which is a split single with another Colchester band called Teebo. Lando are Joe Russo (remember Joey Lawrence?) and Jimmy on guitar and sharing vocal duties and Dom and Steve on drums and bass respectively. I got hold of Joe and Steve for an insight into the mental landscape of Lando.<br /><br />What bands have you been in previously?<br />J: I’ve been in the Penfolds and affybud with Tom from Teebo.<br /><br />I’ve heard Halstead is like Hollyoaks. Is it that way?<br />J: Yeah but Baz plays keyboards not bass.<br />S: Out of order!<br />J: I think I must be Jambo.<br /><br />The Gringo release says one of you is a mutated fanzine writer. Which fanzine does he write for?<br />S: I haven’t actually see the Gringo release but I guess that must be me. I should be putting out my own zine, Melt Disney, some time soon.<br /><br />Who are your influences?<br />J: Sonic Youth, the Raincoats, Velvet Underground, Butthole Surfers.<br />S: I’d say bis, not really musically but personally I admire their attitude and the way they go about doing stuff.<br /><br />Whats your all time favourite song?<br />J: I would say In The Mouth A Desert by Pavement or anything off Starlite Walker by the Silver Jews.<br />S: I honestly don’t have an all time favourite song. Its like ask me every half hour and I’d probably say something different.<br />J: Shergar The Wonder Horse may seem irrelevent here.<br /><br />Have you got a thing for horse?<br />S: That would be Joe.<br />J: Bastards, horses are cool, they should be respected like the ones in Gullivers Travels.<br /><br />Are any members of Lando hung like horses?<br />S: That would be Joe again.<br />J: That would be Dom….but he can’t/won’t comment.<br /><br />When was the last time you slept in a ditch?<br />J: Actually the last time was in Ipswich when so called friends stranded us. We, four of us, laid in this ditch getting heat by burning Amyl Nitrate.<br /><br />Which TV gameshow would Lando best be a team on?<br />J: The new one with Dale Winton in. Not Supermarket Sweep but that would still be cool.<br />S: I got the numbers on Countdown the other day when neither of the contestants did, and Carol couldn’t do it straight away either.<br />J: So, I done that as well.<br />S: Yeah, but you’ve never got the Conundrum.<br /><br />What would you do if you could be Madonna for a day?<br />J: Probably sit around watching footy and drinking beers.<br />S: Crucify Sean Penn.<br /><br />What is Adjacent Tyrants about?<br />J: It’s about ancient Greek oppression and conforming the image of the superficial masses.<br /><br />Who’s better Hanson or Ocean Colour Scene?<br />S: I can’t believe you’re actually asking us that! Isn’t it blatantly obvious?<br />J: They win HaNdSdOwN.<br /><br />What is the worst thing about Gringo Records?<br />J: Communication and fidgetiness.<br /><br />What’s wrong with Colchester?<br />S: I’m the only person involved with Lando who actually lives in Colchester. There’s a lot of narrow mindness.<br />J: No ones willing to look at themselves and see they’re wrong, there’s no hope, the towns fuct but they isn’t everywhere.<br /><br />When did you start smoking?<br />J: I started on herbal cigarettes when I was 15.<br /><br />How do Teletubbies go to the toilet?<br />J: They do it in their outfits?<br /><br />How do Teletubbies have sex?<br />J: Hmm…<br />S: I don’t think they do, because they’re too “nice” for that sort of thing…They don’t have those sort of urges.<br />(well whats the big hug thing about then?)<br /><br />Old people: Cool or Crap?<br />J: It depends if they’re dead or not. Only joking. They’re pretty cool especially the mental ones, we have a few in Halstead and they’re actually really nice…<br />S: …as long as you don’t make any sudden movements!<br /><br />Have you got a favourite Spice Girl?<br />J: Here’s my order: 1) Ginger Spice, 2) Posh Spice, 3) Crazy Spice or is that Scary, 4) Baby Spice, 5) Manky Spice.<br />S: Mine is Ginger Strap…have you noticed he’s shagging Ferdy on This Life?<br /><br />Who’s your favourite Simpsons character?<br />S: The Itchy &amp; Scratchy bits are always the funniest.<br />J: Willy the Groundskeeper closely followed by Signore Beaverotti.<br /><br />Whos your favourite Star Wars character?<br />S: Without a doubt, Grand Moff Tarkin, he has all the coolest lines.<br />J: My dad used to serve him….does that make him a Stormtrooper? (It was) in a restaurant in Kent.<br /><br />Whats your favourite Chevy Chase film?<br />J: I don’t like him but his best one was one with Dudley Moore and Goldie Hawn, I’m more of a Kurt Russell fan. (that film was Foul Play, memorable for little Duds sexy bedroom and lack of Chevy Chase tomfoolery but notable for his fine head of hair)<br /><br />Future or Fucked?<br />J: Bang, fuck, Marilyn Manson, rape etc.<br /><br />Whats cooler: a cheeky monkey grin or a horses nostrils?<br />S: I’m going to go with the monkey, but I’ve got a feeling Joe won’t be with me on that one…<br />J: Nay!<br /><br />Are the rumours that your rhythm section look like Evening Session duo Jo and Steve true?<br />S: I don’t look like Steve Lamacq alright! I know who started those rumour and I’m going to disc with him.<br /><br />What’s your favourite Guns N’ Roses song?<br />J: That would be “Eat My Cuntpuke, Bitch”.<br /><br />Have any of you got arse sideburns?<br />J: Have you? Maybe we could compare someday.<br /><br />West Ham or Tottenham?<br />S: Luton Town FC.<br />J: Stenhousemuir.<br /><br />What’s the name of the Religious Cult opposite your home?<br />J: It’s Halstead Baptist Church, my day plays squash with the vicar, I’ve got a photo of the vicar on the roof.<br /><br />Why did you quit bonkers barmy top TV show Blossom?<br />J: Puberty mate. Cause a bit of argy bargy with all my hormones and stuff.<br />(sex with Six?)<br /><br />When was the last time you cryed?<br />J: When my dog died.<br />S: I always cry at Brookside…when Mike Dixon got released from prison in Tenerife or wherever it was…and when Jackie Corkhill’s cat was shot…<br /><br />Male Nurse have a 2 foot Patrick Swayze and Lando have a 2 foot……….<br />S: Whoopi Goldberg.<br />J: Jumping Jack Flash. Gas! Gas! Gas!<br /><br />Anything else?<br />J: Apologies to Magoo (from a previous interview), nothing was meant. To everyone, be inventive, real, original, extreme, hardcore, in ya face, grunge rock (Bu$h) yum yum.<br />S: I think I’ve got an eye infection.<br />J: Fear the Lando.<br /><br />I understand Lando are soon to get to work on their next single, which may or may not be on Gringo while preparing the debut of Club Lando.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270323473139298?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703219367619372004-12-10T10:26:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:26:59.366-08:00SexLoveBusterBaby <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270321936761937?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703188673712552004-12-10T10:26:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:26:28.673-08:00Arab Strap <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270318867371255?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703158000520052004-12-10T10:25:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:25:58.000-08:00Twister <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270315800052005?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703140203667162004-12-10T10:25:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:25:40.203-08:00Dangerous Coffee Records <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270314020366716?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703108020156442004-12-10T10:24:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:25:08.020-08:00Gizz Butt (Prodigy/English Dogs/Janus Stark) <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270310802015644?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703066406819132004-12-10T10:24:00.000-08:002004-12-10T10:24:26.406-08:00Understand <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270306640681913?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703046936875012004-12-10T10:23:00.001-08:002004-12-10T10:24:06.936-08:00Love Train Records <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270304693687501?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102703020588123112004-12-10T10:23:00.000-08:002004-12-14T13:10:40.770-08:00interview with Dawn Of The Replicants <br /> <br />Dawn Of The Replicants are Paul Vickers (vocals/lyrics/spooky tapes), Roger Simian (guitar/keyboard/vocals), Donald Kyle (bass), Mike Muso (guitar/bass/vocals) and Grant Murray Pringle (drums/bass/vocals). <br /> <br />They released their first EP on their own label, Dumb Sulk Trigger and gave it away for free. Bonkers. Best of all though was that it was a collection of four fine songs resulting in being awarded the accolade of single of the week in Melody Maker. Jump around as Roger Simian kindly becomes my first interview victim: <br /> <br />NP: I thought Cocaine On The Catwalk sounded like a good Guided By Voices song. Are complimented or insulted? <br />RS: I think it's a good comparison for that particular song but other stuff which we are now doing is very different. <br /> <br />NP: Given the opportunity would you sign to a major or worse Creation? <br />RS: We'd happily sign to a major but we wouldn't touch Creation with a hairy scotsman. <br /> <br />NP: Will you be doing another fanzine? <br />RS: I'd like to but only when I've got enough cash to get it printed. I get bored photocopying bits of paper. <br /> <br />NP: Did you meet Traci Lords and what was she like? <br />RS: She was intelligent and funny and, sadly, on the other side of the Atlantic. We communicated via telephone but I had one of her press photos sitting in front of me. <br /> <br />NP: What did the interview with her reveal? <br />RS: The tape of the interview revealed that I was a giggling sycophant clearly overwhelmed by her sexual past (around 100 hardcore porn videos seemingly) and that she was an intelligent young woman ready to move on from her sordid past. <br /> <br />NP: We're all long time admirers of he work. What in your opinion is her best work? <br />RS: Once, at a party in Carlisle, I saw something called "Black Throat". It was a stimulating performance on Traci's part but my appreciation was marred by her early 80's style perm and Valley Girl theatrics. I'm not a big fan of techno music but I actually quite like her album "1000 Fires". <br /> <br />NP: Who is your all time favourite drummer? <br />RS: Keith Moon <br /> <br />NP: Dawn Of The Replicants used to be called just The Replicants but there was already a band called that so they had to change that name. Got any Replicants records? <br />RS: No <br /> <br />NP: Got any Marc Riley and the Creepers records then? <br />RS: No, but I've got a stack load of Fall LPs. <br /> <br />NP: What’s the connection with yourself and the label Solipisist (apart from the address!) <br />RS: My brother, Mike Muso, ran Solipsist as an off shoot of Sun Zoom Spark magazine. dumb/SULK trigg-er is my label so I guess it's a blood relation of Solipsist. <br /> <br />NP: Whatever happened to the wonderful Twiggs (an amazing band who had an album out on Solipsist)? <br />RS: I always thought they were destined for greatness and Mark Radcliffe played one of their songs a few times but they grew tired of each other and split after the album was released. Marcer (vocals/bass) left Carlisle and is studying Art in Edinburgh. <br /> <br />NP: Did you know that you were going to receive good reviews for the single? <br />RS: The most I was hoping for was an OK review in either NME or Melody Maker so I was pleasantly surprised. <br /> <br />NP: As a result have you had any labels sniffing around? (if not Gringo are!) <br />RS: A couple of people have come up to visit us and there's a possibility someone might give us some cash to release another single but tell me more about Gringo (I will some other time Roger) <br /> <br />NP: With the added interest will you now do more pressings? <br />RS: I'd rather release new material. We could always put out a compilation of our early singles at a later date. Much like Adventures In Stereo have done. <br /> <br />NP: How is your stock of material? <br />RS: There's only 50 left and we're keeping them so they become collectable in 20 years time. <br /> <br />NP: When can we expect another single or EP? <br />RS: Hopefully, we'll release a single or EP every couple of months. We just need to get some cash together. <br /> <br />NP: And then an album? <br />RS: Maybe early next year. <br /> <br />NP: (Roger had a dinosaur poem read by Ian McMillan on Radcliffe) Do you think the poem is worth printing? <br />RS: No, its pretty crap. I just made it up in a couple of minutes and faxed it to Mark Radcliffe so he'd say my name on air again (mission accomplished ego man). <br /> <br />NP: Are you a beatnik? <br />RS: No but I've read most of "The Naked Lunch". <br />NP: (Fuck it, the world needs more beatniks but come to think of it there aren't any bongos on the single). <br /> <br />NP: Who should be tarred and feathered first: Bush, Oasis or Kula Shaker? <br />RS: Tarring and feathering isn't good enough for them. Bush should be hung, Oasis should be drawn and Kula Shaker should be quartered. <br /> <br />NP: Have you ever heard of Colchester? <br />RS: Yes. <br />NP: Hooray, acknowledged in another country! <br /> <br />NP: What reputation does Essex have north of the border? <br />RS: We think of it as being down South somewhere. <br /> <br />NP: Who is your favourite Spice Girl? <br />RS: Victoria...no, Mel B... or maybe Geri. Fuck it, I just can't make up my mind. <br /> <br />NP: Who was your favourite member of the A Team? <br />RS: Who was the mad fellow. Was it Murdoch? <br />NP: Indeed it was, the same fellow Jim Carrey has chosen to rip off without shame. <br /> <br />NP: Who is your favourite Star Wars character? <br />RS: R2D2 <br /> <br />NP: Who is your favourite Simpsons character? <br />RS: I've still never seen the Simpsons. <br />NP: Do it immediately, don't miss out). <br /> <br />NP: Who are you major influences? <br />RS: I can't speak for the rest of the band but some o mine are: The Velvet Underground, The Beatles (by the way Roger looks like a young Paul McCartney), Captain Beefheart, David Lynch, Patti Smith, Tristan Tzara (founder of Dadaist movement), PJ Harvey, The Who, The Pixies, Bob Marley, Nancy Friday (writer on female sexuality), Pink Floyd and blues innovators like Howlin' Wolf and Sonic Youth. <br />NP: (Roger may or may not have forgotten to include the Fall). <br /> <br />NP: What you listening to currently which you'd strongly recommend to the record buying public? <br />RS: Captain Beefheart "Clear Spot", Sonic Youth "Sister", Patti Smith "Horses", Linus "Yougli", Spice Girls "Spice", Blondie "Greatest Hits". <br /> <br />NP: What other bands have you, Paul and Donald been in? <br />RS: Myself, Mike Muso and Grant Murray were in Crunchy Joseph; Paul was in Snoopy on Sax with Mike Muso and Donald was in Placenta Party with Grant Murray Pringle and Veer with some other people. <br /> <br />NP: Did you send Kerrang a single? <br />RS: I did , yes. As far as I know they didn't review it. I find it a bit embarrassing having to flick through it in the local shop. They probably all think I'm into Korn or something. <br /> <br />NP: Doing DIY I bet you're somewhat financially worse off now - was it worth it? <br />RS: I'm totally skint now but it was all worth it. <br /> <br />NP: What did you hope to achieve and what did you actually achieve? <br />RS: I hoped to get a couple of radio plays and, maybe, a review in one of the music papers. We were played 4 times by Radcliffe, twice by Peel, got a good review in NME and single of the week in Melody Maker thanks to Richard from the 60 Foot Dolls <br />NP: Don't forget Everett True. <br /> <br />NP: In addition to Peel, Radcliffe, MM and NME, what other exposure have you gained? <br />RS: Radio Scotland's "Beat Patrol", various radio stations and fanzines. <br /> <br />NP: Any compilation appearances planned? <br />RS: Nobody's asked us but we're up for it. (Attention labels putting out a compilation, do it). <br /> <br />NP: What happens in Dawn Of The Replicants the movie? <br />RS: The Rutger Hauer character from "Blade Runner" (Roy Batty) is reborn as a zombie and descends into Hades in search of Philip K. Dick who is the closet thing he has to a God. It transpires that Philip K. Dick is a Replicant too causing Rutger to wonder what reality is and whether it even exists. In his philosophical text books, "Thus Spake Zarathustra", Rutger proposes that "Philip K. Dick is Dead" and invents existentialism. Meanwhile, Harrison Ford and Sean Young get out their faces on MDMA and fuck until dawn. <br /> <br />NP: The name Dawn Of The Replicants sounds like a crappy goth band (Roger said it first). Have you got any Marilyn "I am the holy god of fuck" Manson type fans? <br />RS: What a depressing thought. It's too painful to think about. <br /> <br />So we won't then. Roger by the way is an Aquarian and is afraid of stalkers and scientologists. There next release maybe a split single with a Glasgow band called Peptone who I'll hopefully be able to tell you about next ish. <br /> <br /> <br />Jason Graham (taken from No Pictures 3) <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110270302058812311?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102617062581968762004-12-09T10:29:00.000-08:002004-12-09T10:31:02.580-08:00The original NO PICTURES fanzine website can be found at <a href="http://www.diskant.net/nopics">www.diskant.net/nopics</a> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110261706258196876?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9509648.post-1102458644824253792004-12-07T14:30:00.000-08:002004-12-07T14:30:44.823-08:00<a href='http://photos1.blogger.com/img/33/2611/640/np%2010.jpg'><img border='0' style='border:1px solid #000000; margin:2px' src='http://photos1.blogger.com/img/33/2611/320/np%2010.jpg'></a><br />arse<br /><span style='font-size: 8pt;'>Posted by <a href='http://www.hello.com/' target='ext'>Hello</a></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/9509648-110245864482425379?l=nopictures.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>JGRAMnoreply@blogger.com0