Straight outta Blackpool.



Punk Rock and ultra-leaded noise petroleum to keep your gas guzzlin' eye on the dial. JSNTGM stands for Just Say No To Government Music and feels like one of those labels that operates in Eastern Europe. The split SICK 56/HIGGINS++ 45 is etched on plate thick vinyl which could be classed as a weapon in the wrong hands. The music is 77 style and the H++ fellas update Jello's CA paen to be Cool Brittania.



Z/28 hail from Edinburgh. I've seen 'em a couple of times over the many years they've been together and they're great live. Snarling NPH type barnstorming fused with a surf sensibility that sounds a little thin on cd but there's no way i could play this as loud as it really should be played. Not without removing the roughcast. Girl on the cover looks a little like Drea De Matteo. Havin' a lollipop before she goe's lookin' for Silvio and Christofah. Sure you've heard it all before but it's fun and it was brewed in a city not known for producing much in the way of rock'n'roll over the years. A castle they can do but...

ODB died before he got very old at all...

It was thirty years ago today...

I'm sure Lindsay will be overjoyed, but here's the latest from the sailor camp: Turbonegro are recording. To quote Happy-Tom : "It sounds like a combo of Joan Jett, Shostakovich and Van Halen, pretty rockin stuff." Who can't wait to hear it !???.

Ok so the catch up begins with the recent GET HIP crop... let's get straight to it.

THE BAMBOO KIDS self titled eleven songer plus video reinforces my problem with the three-piece. For me, such beasties always seem to lack something. There are exceptions of course but in the main I find 'em clunky. There's nothing about this album that raises it above bog standard. It might make sense live but on the strength of this, I wouldn't be taking any chances.

THE PRIESTS "TALL TALES" fares a little better but some early Doors-isms flim flam my radar. The singer reminds me of Stiv but there's no sign of a Cheetah to foil it if you knowworimean? It's all a little faux psychedelic and I'd say these clergy need a little more ecumenical schooling in the individuality department. Younger, less jaded types might be able to get past the more obvious comparisons then. Old grumpy heard it all here needs more to get his sonic jollies.

SLEEPYKID's "MONDAY MORNING SMILE" continues a triumvirate of releases that fall a little short of any kind of excitement. It's more yer powerpop. Kinda like Big Star but played by The posies instead of the originals. The Lennonesque vocal recalls O*sis and this is not a positive. What is with wanting to make it sound so damned anglo? Don't we foist enough of that shit from here as it is?? What happened to that old US spirit of being able to turn the tables on this lily-livered pish? The result is a constricted rehash of music I never cared for in the first place.

All is not lost though... THE SIRENS eponymous debut has already been flagged up by J but I just wanted to add my two thumbs up to his recommendation. Compared to all of those previous guys they sound as bright as the proverbial button and blast away the cobwebs with a sizeable stackheeled boot on the monitor to bolster effect. They muster a big eff-off clout of a sound, unfeasibly nostalgic and a breath of fresh gasoline at the same time. These lassies do for glam what The Detroit Cobras do for revved up soul and original form R&B. And? They're from bloody Detroit.

As are THE PAYBACKS whose "HARDER AND HARDER" is more contemporary Motor City rock. They're not harking back to anything in particular just belting out a muscular riff-totin' torrent of guitarslingin'. This brew be percolated to maximum strength and "When I'm Gone" is a wake up call to "Smells Like" Grungesters that Wendy Case can outkurt Cobain any ol' day. A smoker!!

The Master Plan, the ace RnR tag-team trained by Paul Johnson that includes members of the Fleshtones and the Dictators, return to the ring over the next month with all-action bouts in New York and Canada. For details of the venues, along with reviews of their debut season, check out their page on the Total Energy website. An unconfirmed report indicates that "the boys" have recently returned from a secret training location and intend to present their foes with further cause for concern. Our mole reveals that each new move has been meticulously planned and stren(g)uously rehearsed but all remain within the spirit of the sport. The "Human Pyramid" should not be banned!

This weekend I'm gonna try to get to grips with some of the listening I haven't been able to undertake for various reasons. Mostly that I get up at 5.30am, have a half hour on the computer then go to work. I realise this routine is nuts but I'm kinda stuck with it for now. As a result, I'm usually pegged out by about 9pm but I need to get this sorted or I really will end up looking like Crazy Guggenheim.

At this point, a big shout out to Ms Teresa Ott who will be celebrating a half century on the planet this weekend with her homies. Awrabest Missus!!

The Nomads will play the Kafe Antzokia in Bilbao (Sp) on the 27th.

Vinyl Carvers - the answer to yer 45rpm prayers, kids!

Hey folks

You may remember my recent, rather too excitable blather about Vinyl Carvers, a company based in North London which will cut you one-off, large centre hole, 45rpm singles for £15 a shot ... Weeell, after living with a trio of these marvels for a week, I can confirm that they're the answer to every vinyl head's dreams ... I sent the good folks at Vinyl Carvers a CD with six tracks on - a mix of real rare '60s garage & beat 45s, unreleased soul stuff, and a coupla modern tracks which nivver made it to vinyl - and a few days later, the 45s arrived in the mail ... WOW!

Vinyl Carvers' jukebox 45s are 2mm thick, glossy black slabs o'wax with plain labels, they sound AWESOME, and last as long as regular 45s, unlike the acetate dubplates of yore ... The sound is bright, full, and more dynamic than the CDs which the tracks were burnt off ... I can now spin kool CD-only cuts like You Am I's Rumble and Ruby Johnson's I'd Rather Fight Than Switch off'a vinyl - wahey! Jeez, Louise, I had two rare as shit Memphis garage tunes - which I'd recently been quoted prices of $500 and $130 for the originals of - cut as a jukebox 45, at the cost of £15! Now, THAT'S great value! And extra copies of any 45 you have cut are only £10 ... Vinyl Carvers take PayPal, and you can even email them high quality audio files to cut from ... How's about THEM apples?

So do yerselves a favour, and visit VINYLCARVERS today! Tina and Werner will do you rite!

Selah!

Joss Hutton, Sonic Reducer

RIP: Roger Johnston (The Monks).

It occurred tae me that you folks from far-flung places might be inclined toward investigating the world of Scottish Pop. A wee root aboot JOCKROCK! should hit the spot then...

SUICIDE NO COMPROMISE David Nobakht

"A confrontational oral history of New York punk through the dark, sinister world of Suicide. An explosive docu-biography of New York's most subversive punk band Suicide, who along with the New York Dolls, the Ramones, Blondie, Television and Talking Heads defined the US punk scene centered around Max's Kansas City and CBGB's. Suicide came to prominence in the UK as special guests of The Clash on their first British tour. Their synthesizer-based, energy-laden performance was not well received: they were bottled off every night, Vega often sustaining serious injury.

The book features new interview material with many of the leading lights of the NY punk scene, including Alan Vega and Martin Rev from the band, as well as Debbie Harry and Chris Stein from Blondie, Moby, Henry Rollins, Marc Almond, Bobby Gillespie (Primal Scream), Jim Reid (Jesus & Mary Chain), Lydia Lunch, Jane County amongst others. A high quality, illustrated hardback with over 100 photos and memorabilia from Vega and Rev's own archives, Nobakht's penetrating biography graphically recreates the world of '70s New York City.

Hardback ISBN: 0 946719 71 3 Publication: November 2004.

Signed copies will be available for early orders - 224 pages (illustrated).

SAF WEBSITE

Welcome to the wonderful world of
PIPEDOWN. Thanks to Ms Karen McB of Goofenhaus Industries for the info...

Yesterday's "sermon" was one of those "better out than in" type situations. Thanks to all of yer who e-mailed in concern for my well being. It's how I feel folks, what can I tell ya!? My Christmas vitriol is percolating nicely.

Anyways, today it seems like we'll break the 80,000 visitors mark. We're rackin' 'em up here... more, um... later.

According to “the paperwork”, yours truly is set to retire in 2022. The spate of untimely exits recently has got me thinking that one might not (feasibly) make it to that. And, would that necessarily be a bad thing? It’s true that when you’re in the thick of something then it’s difficult to see the wood for the bloody big trees. This can manifest itself as someone you expect to be around forever "shooting the craw". Somebody who has been part of your life practically daily or at the very least has positively enhanced your existence when you do have contact.

Things can happen. Stuff outwith any modicum of control. Anything. Often stupid things, but then again those are the things that fester most. Of couse there's always the other side. What about privacy, what about giving people space to function? It's a difficult one and like Larry (David) says? What exactly is the cut off point for calling people at home?? Anyways, I digress - as someone of my late years is prone to do. These thoughts of mortality have got me to thinking that I’d like to be in touch with people more. Where the time is gonna come from to take care of this desire is another thing entirely but the spirit is most definitely willing.

Maybe it’s something to do with being another year older but I’m definitely dwelling on the fact that I’m running outta time and it’s not entirely pleasant. Bridges require building or in some quarters, at the very least some maintenance - and I’m not sure where to start. Help me out, I’m repenting in relative leisure here.

Have you been in any Virgin or HMV stores recently? Whoa Nelly! That awful bumming “in-store” V radio station blasting out intolerable shite and in HMV, the same but I’m not sure it’s a “radio” format. I’m too old and it was definitely too loud. If you’re going to a record store, go to one where the staff pick the music. At least then it has a human edge. Anyway, I wanted to score some Sopranos on DVD but even in the sale they were too expensive. You can get them £15 a piece cheaper on Amazon, that’s all I’m saying. Plus you don’t have to deal with the scumhordes.

During yesterday’s schlepp to Edinburgh, we saw the movie BAD SANTA. Haven’t seen many films this year but figured that it was there and so were there, so... It doesn’t live up to its press (what does? – apart from here of course - ha flippin' ha) but it’s a reasonable enough diversion. Billy Bob Thornton’s Santa isn’t so much obnoxious as a whiner but there is some superlative cussing and politically incorrect dialogue. Tony Cox steals the whole show and I guess it was John Ritter’s last hurrah before he shuffled offa this mortal coil. Which I guess brings us neatly to where we began with all this.

To end on a slightly upbeat note, there’s a cool Christmas song by a band called Bunnygrunt in the closing credits also. I love a good Christmas tune but I’m not keen on the season to be jolly. Hoo ‘boot yersel’?

So, I know what you're thinking. Does the Suzy Y Los Quattro album live up to expectations? After all these were big-ass hopes and y'know what happens when you have a bunch of those in tow?? Well fear not, because the actual short but sweet 11 song disc will pound it's way into the hardest punk (poppin' rock'n'roll) heart within seconds of hitting that cd tray (or turntable). This Eurovisionary combo have all the chops down and the promise of those early singles have been more than realised. Kicking off with "Lipstick To Japan", it's hard not to smirk your face off. The world can certainly use a group like this right about now. Of course it's not ground-breaking or pushing back the frontiers of music but it sure is a blast and will ease the weight of your existence wherever you choose to hammer it out. It'll blow a shot of summer through these cold dark winter days and nights and you'll be fully conversant with it by the time the days start drawing out. I wish Joey had been around to sing backup on "Hey Lil Sister" but it sounds like he's in there somewhere anyway and the finale "Did You Ever" has some fine rasping sax ripping through it like Andy Mackay added to those Mott The Hoople 45's. Nothing else for it 'cept to hit replay. Get it direct from No Tomorrow or Soundflat or wherever groovy records be sold.



Look out also, for a Japanese compilation of all their singles and rogue tracks including a cover of Twisted Sister's "We're Not Gonna Take It". These kids have taste and y'know what, I think they could well take it... straight to the bridge!!

Those in the UK might wanna check the John Peel tribute on BBC TWO tonight.

So long, Fred Dibnah - Steeplejack.

Brian Wilson in SF… the Don Daly Report!

“saw brian wilson at the symphony hall. wow!!!!! holy moley, was he GREAT!!! best thing since mccartney. easily THE show of the year. i mean i'd heard raves - and even heard the whole smile section from the show beforehand but i wasn't prepared for this. it was everything people said it was but ten times better.
it started out with him and a few people (the wondermints i guess) backing him up -- huddled together in front of the stage. a guy on bongos, couple of guys on acoustic guitars -- in other words it was like a little beach bongo party. also there was this super hot blonde gal who sang and played some percussion. brian wore a short sleeve green floral (almost hawaiian) short. he looked alright. not at all disturbing - let's put it that way. and they opened with "surfer girl". before long i started to get sweaty. this was gonna be heavy. they did some other old beach boys nuggets --unplugged -- including "wendy". that was killer. absolute perfect harmonies. brian sang lead all night with others doing his falsettoes. okay, after they already blew everyone's mind with that section, they took their places filling the stage -- drummer behind full drum kit -- percussionists, keyboards, bassist, 3 guitars. and they did "sloop john b". i lost it! my eyes filled up and i almost had to walk out for a second. and i wasn't alone. from here on almost every song received a standing ovation. "this is paul mccartney's favorite song ever" he proudly proclaimed before doing a killer version of "god only knows". they ran thru a bunch of classics -- "california girls", "please let me wonder", "our hearts were full of spring", lots more... everything! plus the title cut from his new album - which wasn't bad. then an intermission. people were already talking about how insanely great it was and we hadn't even heard "smile" yet. i mean everyone was just stunned. okay so he comes back and now he's got a 20 piece band - he's added strings and horns. and they do the entire "smile" album spectacular. completely absorbing. starts with the acapella "our prayer" and then a really powerful rendition of "heroes and villains". all of the reservations i had about seeing a mentally ill person onstage were totally unfounded. i mean he was totally together. he sat behind a keyboard and rarely played but i mean he was right there the whole time. went thru the whole smile piece and it's just astounding - i mean - really heavy.

the string section all wore fire hats during "mrs o'leary's cow" and they even had a fire hose -- they had this whole thing choreographed.
they went thru the whole thing -- "surf's up" - the whole fantastic -- well--- symphony. ending with "good vibrations". and then he went off to wild cheers and they came back shortly and all the musicians were introduced one by one and then came a whole nuther set of beach boys stuff starting with "do it again" and moving on to "fun fun fun" and "help me rhonda" and all that. it was like wash dc 4th of july! brian picked up the bass for "barbara ann" and then he saluted chuck berry and ended up with "surfin' usa". and this is the symphony hall! the aisles were full-- people clapping and dancing, including rodney bingenheimer (whom i shook hands with as he was leaving).
brian came back for one more encore... "okay, no more rock n' roll, gonna leave you with a nice quiet one". and he did "love and mercy" (much better than the record). good vibrations all around!” -- don

Then comes Part Two… Don had lost it to the extent that he hadn’t reported on the hardware… Goes something like this…

Don- Dead on awesome review! But no comments on all the different guitars?

The man, having gained his composure by this time duly did his duty…

“okay... you asked for it... that's funny -- right after i sent that out i realized i hadn't mentioned the guitars and then i wrote an addendum but only sent it to the guitar players. so now i'll bore everyone else and you can all blame andy.
ok... there were some pretty cool axes up there, mostly from the guy in the orange shirt with the cap. first the gibson j-200 during the bongo party. this was particularly great on "wendy" when he and the other guy traded off on those chords in the instr break. then that guy had the guitar i currently have the madness for: a white fender jazzmaster. in fact for the last month or so i've been trying to decipher prices on them at japanese websites. i saw one on ebay and very nearly put in a bid. just the other day i saw one on haight street but it was blue. it's gotta be beach boys white with red pickguard or not at all!!
okay, that guy also had a danelectro six string bass. that was the blue sparkly thing. i've already got one of those.(in case i'm ever called upon to play the solo to "wichita lineman").
the other guy on that side of the stage had some nice hollow bodies.
first he had an epiphone 12 string which he used on "california girls"
and "dance dance dance". this was kinda like carl's gibson 12. this guy also had a nice white gibson 335 which he flipped over at the end and it said "smile" on the back. this guy also had a ukelele for that hawaiin bit from "smile".
then there was that other guy -- he had a black telecaster and also a danelectro 12 string which he somehow managed to play slide on. he also played banjo on "cabinessence".
i think they all had blackface fender reissue combo amps -- looked like twin reverbs. bass guy had a 5 (or 6) string gold fender bass. brian had a white fender precision bass (his trademark) which he plucked with his thumb-- in his classic style.

i think that was about it. thanks for the reminder andy” - don

If Don says that was about it then verily that be it!

A rabble rousing Mark Morford rallying call to our dejected US cousins.

Map illo supplied by the Very Rev. D. Arnoff Esq.

It's that time of year once again, gang. Blair Buscareno will be celebrating another full trip 'round dear ol' Sol. Come help him have a great time. We (The Miscreants) will be back at Magnetic Field for the fuzztivities on Saturday November 13th (2 days before the actual day, just in case you also want to send candy that Monday.) Here's the way the schedule looks:
7:30 PM - The debut of The Coal Gems (Miscreants Blair, Jahna, and Matt doing something different. This'll be only 5-6 songs, but we're all really looking forward to it. 8:00 PM - The Miscreants take the stage to the roar of the crowd. They proceed to do... Whatever it is they do. 9:00 PM - The Electrolux Combo. Yeah, last year we had Electraluxx. This year it's The Electrolux Combo. This bunch plays sleazy Las Vegas Grind style instros. We love 'em... And not just 'cuz they include a couple members of The Belmondos. All this for only $3. And you are NOT *required* to show up with a gift for Blair's birthday. (Of course, if you'd like to bring some saviata cookies from DiRoberti's on 1st Avenue, he'd be quite grateful.) By the way, rumor has it that Blair will have back issues of The Teen Scene available as door prizes. But who listens to rumors?.

Our brother in R&R, Mr. Patrick Bainée sent in this DDR report...

DEMOLITION DOLL RODS IN EVREUX NOV 4, 2004



"For once, I didn’t have to go to Paris to see a good show : DDR was in town, yesterday, in a cool venue called “l’Abordage”. The gig began with a duet by The Cool Klebs (The Cool Dogs), composed of DDR tour manager and his girlfriend to whom DDR asked to open the show (it was their second show ever but before, the guy played in a group called Kleptomanes – remember you made a review in the Next Big Thing at the time, Lindsay?). (I don’t but I’ll refresh my memory… - LH) Their performance was pretty cool and they dedicated one track to Greg Shaw (RIP). I told the guy that his voice reminds me of Dominique Laboubée (RIP, again), singer of the best French group ever, The Dogs. It seems it was the best compliment he could receive.

As Margaret and Dan were in the audience, I said hi and gave a Cramps live 2004 CD to them (thanx B.). It was much appreciated and will provide good times while driving during their tour. It was fun to see Margaret in a pullover and jeans (see picture) when she’s gonna wear (?!) a very sexy outfit a few minutes later. The set began with “Get It On” and mostly featured songs from the latest album, “On”. One of the highlights of the show was a version of The Gories “Baby Say Unh!”, with Christine, Margaret’s little daughter coming to the front of the stage to sing the last part. On “Cannonball”, Dan sings and plays a (sounds like a Black Oak moment – LH) kinda washboard with a bottleneck (description by a non technician!)while Margaret, wearing gloves a la Rita Hayworth in “Gilda” was lasciviously dancing, then accelerated in a tribal dance with her boobs jumping off her mini bra (string bra, does that make sense?).

I never saw such a number of photos taken during a show, the crowd (around 250 people)appreciated the show and the music too. At one point, Dan jumped into the crowd but didn’t realise that the stage was so high and badly hurt his feet. They did a few more songs but no encores due to Dan being in obvious pain. It was short but very intense.

Then came the Black Keys – I particularly appreciated their version of “Have Love Will travel”, a good compromise between Richard Berry’s original version and The Sonics. They ended with a slow version of “No Fun”. They did encores but I left to talk to Margaret, Christine and Dan after buying some stuff from the DDR merch stall (the new album, window sticker, poster and a lot of T-shirts. Margaret was kindly massaging Dan’s foot that seemed to be getting better. They kindly autographed their new LP for me. We talked about new DDR projects (a DVD is soon to be made available by their pal Allen and Margaret’s connection with Mr Airplane Man), souvenirs from the Gories(1992) and the DDR Paris shows, some of their faves: Oblivians, Reatards and even Jonathan Richman (one of my heroes) who is “a constant source of inspiration” said Margaret.

I left after a last photo with Margaret holding me by the hips “Shake Your Hips” could be a good cover for DDR, don’t you think ?. Those DDR are beautiful human beings."

Patrick



Portrait of the author with Margaret Dollrod

From Ace Records: "THE SONICS ARE COMING! Back in the mid-1960s, the legendary Sonics took rock'n'roll by the scruff of the neck and thrashed it to within an inch of its life, leaving a legacy of some of the most savage, visceral recordings ever made. Now, in 2004, the Sonics’ version of the Richard Berry classic: ‘Have Love Will Travel’, will return to the spotlight as the soundtrack to the fabulous new Land Rover Discovery TV advert (currently being shown on a terrestrial and satellite channel near you). Ace will be releasing the track c/w ‘Psycho’ as a CD single – available to buy from the 29th November. We’re on a mission to knock some excitement back into the UK music charts and to secure the 1000th Number One slot, so please buy in bulk!".

Can anyone tell me what fucking use to the world that fireworks are? Outside of the context of a KISS concert of course. It's pissing rain here and it sounds a bit like Bagdhad did on the telly when Dubya went in mob handed. No doubt there are troops of drongos out there watching them but not we. If the purpose of these bloody squibs is to frighten animals and old people then I guess it's a big success. Me? I'd ban the bloody things outright, everyplace and use the money for a worthier cause. If I was blasting my Boonaraaas records at this volume the polis would come and huckle me. Guy Fawkes? Guys Feck off more like!

Joss reports an increase in Sonic Reducer activity during November...



------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey folks

Hope you had a swingin' Halloween, although with Bush gettin' back in, it'll soon be Oct 31st all year round ... Up yer nuts, Dubya!

The Sonic Reducer crew are gonna be real busy during November, not least as tour support to our friends The Detroit Cobras, at the behest of Rachel & co. and Rough Trade boss Geoff Travis! We're also slated to spin a whole mess of righteous sounds at gigs by Memphis's own American Death Ray, London-based hepcats The Bad Breed and the latest line-up of Kim Salmon & The Scientists, plus paying rock'n'roll respect at the UK debut of The Bonniwell Music Machine!

As for our own Sonic Reducer soirees, we've snagged a coupla red hot guest DJs for ya during November:

November 12th - Nick Brown, of Intoxica! Records and London's hippest R&B'n'dominoes evening, The Stag-O-Lee Preservation Society & Drinking Club, plus he's The Tindersticks' favoured tour DJ, a former Membranes mentalist, and an all-round musical mensch!

November 26th - Andy Perry, of the Intensive Care club, and scribbler for The Telegraph and a host of other glossies ... Truly, a music journo you can trust - and there ain't many, Benny!

We've got some VERY special guest DJs for December, so stay tuned for details (ho, ho ,ho) ...

As Prof. Stanley Unwin woulda advised, "Stay cool, won't you?"

Joss & Joe

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Sonic Reducer Diary - November:

* Nov 5th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support American Death Ray @ The Dirty Water Club, N19

* Nov 12th - Sonic Reducer, with guest Nick Brown @ The Boogaloo, N6

* Nov 13th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Bad Breed @ Flip Your Wig, The Plough Inn, E17

* Nov 15th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support Kim Salmon & The Scientists @ The Dirty Water Club

* Nov 16th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support Bonniwell Music Machine @ Islington Academy

* Nov 21st
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Detroit Cobras @ Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

* Nov 22nd
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Detroit Cobras @ Roadhouse, Manchester

* Nov 23rd
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Detroit Cobras @ King Tut's, Glasgow

* Nov 24th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Detroit Cobras @ Cockpit, Leeds

* Nov 25th
Sonic Reducer Tag Team support The Detroit Cobras @ Electric Ballroom, Camden Town

* Nov 26th - Sonic Reducer, with guest Andy Perry @ The Boogaloo, London N6

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The Ramones : End Of The Century film will be screened at the IDFA festival in Amsterdam later this month.

While the rest of the planet does a double take and wonders what the heck happened out there in the USA on Tuesday past, Ms Teresa has hepped we to the wisdom of Mark Morford yet again. I think he articulates the situation more than perfectly. Meanwhile, hang on to your hollyhocks...

Hank Ray Record Release Party at Wild at Heart in Berlin - 20th November 2004!



A big punch in the face for Team America (and the world)... The sound clips on the site don't work but it's fun to futz around on there anyways.

I'm having trouble posting tonight. Blogger is probably im meltdown as a result of the US election outcome or something. Like in the UK at the end of a particularly cliffhanging episode of Eastenders or something when everybody makes a cup of tea or goes to the lavvy. Me, I've been getting acquainted with the Suzy Y Los Quattro album and some tidy Boonaraaas singles, more about which later...

This month's releases from Ace Records.

Been thinking about our American friends today as the big pantomime begins and an obscene amount of campaign money continues to be pissed down the pan into oblivion.
I guess it won't be long now until the fate of the world is sealed... nothing the arrival of the Suzy Y Los Quattro album wouldn't put right though... meanwhile we'll have to make do with the cover...

Catch the Nomads in action:
nov 11 Tromsö - Blå Rock (N)
nov 12 Oslo - Mono (N)
nov 13 Bergen - Garage (N)
nov 20 Copenhagen - The Rock (D)

THE PAYBACKS to appear this week on LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY!



Check it out everybody! Set you VCRs and Tivos! The Paybacks will be appearing as the House Band on Last Call with Carson Daly on Thursday, November 4th and Friday, November 5th. The shows will air at 1:35 am on NBC). Make sure not to miss Wendy and the boys rocking the NBC studios! Should be a blast! The band itself will miss the broadcast however as they start their Spanish Tour. Here are the dates:

Wed Nov. 3 Gijon Teatro Albeniz
Thu Nov. 4 Vigo La Iguana
Fri Nov. 5 Guadalajara Festival Panoramico
Sat Nov. 6 Zaragoza La Casa del Loco
Sun Nov. 7 Castellon Ricoamor
Wed Nov. 10 Barcelona Magic
Thu Nov. 11 Santander Indian
Fri Nov. 12 Bilbao Azkena
Sat Nov. 13 Madrid El Sol

A short note on a trio o' discs you kids might enjoy: First up is the Boonaraaas Go Get Goo Goo LP, Lindsay was raving about these girls after witnessing 'm in Kassel, and I was happy to finally nail a copy of this disc in Paris last week. It's a keeper alright; poppy p-rock w/ class basic production that has everything turned up to just/near distorto level. You know the feeling of seeing a band play live and they just get better 'n louder durin' their set, to the point that by the final encore you're sure you've just seen one of the best shows ever, smile on your face, ears ringin' ?. Well, after spinnin' this about a dozen times over the past week I'm pretty sure the Boonaraaas bein' able to deliver just that. The entire disc spells out just one thing: F-U-N !, remember that?. Great choice of covers as well; Oblivians, Carol Kay and, uh, Cliff Richard. A bit less consistent, but still very much worth your while is the Sirens debut full-length. Great garage/glam/teen metal that relies on outside material only, but you can't fault their taste; Hollywood Brats, Gary Glitter, Suzy Quatro and Roky Erickson to name but a few. I've been spinnin' their take on Glycerine Queen at levels way beyond 11 in recent weeks and figure I'll keep on doin' so for some time to come. Imagine what would happen if Joan Jett would make an album backed by the Dirtbombs w/ Mick Collins at the controls. Speakin' of which: there's a limited edition Dirtbombs LP doin' the rounds entitled Live: North of 8 Mile (MFIC Records), it has all the touches of a boot, but what do I know. It sounds like some live-in-the-studio kinda thing. Good, but not essential...

2004's Scariest Halloween Costumes.

Long-lost final Ed Wood film found.

Ben, I hope you're on commission, Amazon just made a sale... however, the tracklist, etc can be found on the Barnes and Noble site.

Of all the stuff that I've read on what's goin' down come 11/2, I think this one really hits the spot. Do I think it'll make a blind bit of difference? Well no, but waking up and smelling the coffee might be a good idea right about now.

Thanks to Teresa for the link...

Last Saturday at this time, we was enjoying the great Roy A. Loney and a tipple or three in Paris. This weekend it's a 5.30am rise to go work as a mercenary and I'm fighting an inner battle with my psyche as to exactly why I signed up. But anyways, that's between me and me. Lotta catch up on music to be doing, I got the new Voladoras booty more of which later when I get titles, etc. As I type, I'm listening to a recording of The Cramps recent Nashville Show which sounds pretty good (merci Patrick!). Having Bill Bateman on drums has made a heckuva difference. He even makes those recent songs swing. No mean feat. Anyways, the Post Office still hasn't stumped up the Suzy Y Los Quattro album which I know was sent more than a week ago so I'm a little peeved about that but the "improvement in service" means that the actual office is never open to drop into anymore. A watched pot never boils and a' that.

I see the world's biggest bogeyman has turned up just in time for Halloween. The newspapers and media is reporting that OBL be cutting into the US elections but if you look closely to the LH side of the picture you can see the glow of his turnip lantern. They were all outta pumpkins this year.

Anyhoo, a grand Halloween to all of you folks, the real guise-ing starts November 3rd. The good lord (or whoever) bless we all.

Ever one to be attempting to elevate the mood, Joss has found some rock-writing entertainment for you. If this photo really is the guy then he could be that "next big thing", whaddaya reckon?



Discovered: the world's best AND worst music writer?

"Things have been pretty bleak lately if you're an NBT kinda perce, so why not cheer yerself up by checking out the wisdom of the world's most unintentionally hilarious rock scribe, namely Michael Donahue of Memphis newspaper The Commercial Appeal. Donahue's way with words would shame even those assholes at the NME, Q, Mojo et al... He's a riot! And he looks like Mick Farren's dumbass cousin! These articles were posted on the ever-entertaining Goner Records message board by the wonderful Ms Andria Lisle, who knows a slice of pie-eyed jounalism is worth its weight in chikken! Enjoy!"

Donahue rediscovers big bands!

Donahue rediscovers rockabilly!

Donahue interviews Chained Angel!

Donahue goes power pop!

Happy Halloween, campers!

Selah!

Joss Hutton
Sonic Reducer

Been a woolly kind of a week or more and we ain't out of the forest yet but please, stay tuned. Much as I'd like to be bashin' away at this all day and hanging out - the day to day wear and tear divnae half rain on that particular parade.

Meanwhile, if you find yourself to be fortunate enough to be in the Stockholm locale this coming Sat'day night then here's where you oughtta be headed for...

Crypt Kicker Five
Live at the Popcorn Filmfestival Party.
Saturday, October 30th @ Sodra Bar, Stockholm.
(CK5 on stage 21.00)

No, it's not some dyslexic take on a new strain of mad cow disease, we're talking the amazing Slovenian combo Center za dehumanizacijo (CZD) and satellite projects of it's creator, Dusan Hedl, are now on-line for your investigation and appreciation. Bone up now because they're comin' for all of you.

Brother Joss weighs in with this Great news fer vinyl addicts!

"Pissed-off that the latest CD reissues have loadsa kool bonus tracks that'll never see the inside of yer jukebox, or be spun at 45rpm, like they oughta? Pissed off that the way-kool 45 you really, really want is outta yer price range? Missed the vinyl boat on yer current fave album?

Bottom line is: you gotta feed that habit somehow, right?

Well, guyz & gurlz, help is finally at hand! You must ken that ya can get one-off dub plates (metal covered with a soft vinyl layer) cut at most mastering studios, but they wear out after ten plays-or-so, making 'em next to useless (unless you're King Tubby or summat) ... HOWEVER, you can now get kool, clear vinyl singles (7", 10" & 12") cut off'a CDR or even MP3, which last as long as regular rekkids! GREAT birthday or Xmess presents! Or maybe just to treat yerselves, like ...

Check out VINYLCARVERS, where there's info, and links to reviews o'their custom wax ... Me? I've just ordered three jukebox 45s (with large centre holes, no less!) ... Stay tuned for a proper, NBT-friendly review ..."

Huzzah!

Joss 'BigKegShandy' Hutton, Sonic Reducer Tag Team

Jacques Ball kindly gave me the OK to post his ROY LONEY story, and he sent photos. What a guy! ... merci Jacques. This should start you on an upbeat note for today...

"OK, I was at the Roy Loney acoustic gig on Saturday, I was flabbergasted ,
here is my review... as from the audience.;

It's 2 PM, I am climbing up rue de Menilmontant... because Roy Loney is in town and I cannot miss the acoustic show he is going to do in one hour from now at La Maroquinerie. As I am going nearer to the place I am surprised because I can't see any ad for the show, no crowd around... is it still happening ?



First time I have been in this spot which consists of a concert room and a cafe around a small terrace where sellers have put out stalls to sell records. I see faces which are familiar though I have not seen them for twenty years… the old Open Market team indeed. This was the place where the whole legend of the Groovies in France actually started. Marc Z. is there of course (Skydog records et al.) There is a photo exhibition inside the cafe, pictures from Roberta Bayley and Leee Black Childers. Roberta is famous for the cover of the first Ramones album, also for the pic on LAMF and for the first Richard Hell and the Voidoids LP. Leee has covered the whole NYC scene from the NY dolls to the Stooges and Lou Reed among others. Leee has just come inside, he looks like a Johnny Rotten clone with his spiky hair, day glo yellow shirt and leopard styled creepers. Roberta is more discreet but seems older than in my memories. Then I realize the whole house is from my generation and apart from a few chicks everyone is over forty five... I see Robin Wills and Jeremy Gluck from the Barracudas coming inside, they look relaxed and are smiling. Jeremy goes to the bar, his mandatory cap on his head.



Then it's Roy... black shirt, black slacks, middle ages haircut - man the guy has got hair ! He sits down on the chair which has been prepared for him, put on his glasses. The organizers of the event introduce Roberta and Leee and also Roy who has
been invited specially by Roberta. An Roy starts... "Panic to a manic degree"… from the very beginning he wins the whole room which is actually filled up with die hard Groovies fans. Applauses are bursting enthusiastically and Roy goes on with something which starts like a walking blues before evolving into "Comin after me" Waow, that man with his acoustic guitar is incredible ! The next song is a ballad which starts with "Love is a spider", it rings a bell but I cannot remember the actual title. Then Roy announces an old song , it is " Love times" from Sneakers ! It is a marvelous song which I rediscovered then. Roy moves along songs mainly from his solo career and everyone around me is smiling. A young guy next to me is drawing Roy on his sketchbook and asks me "who is this singer ?" I write below his drawing, Roy A. Loney , Flamin' Groovies. This one will have learned something...

Roy waves towards Robin Wills then , and everybody starts to scream.. but Robin, in French, asks for a couple of seconds during which he introduces Tony from the Scientists who apparently is looking forward to play with Roy. As Robin wrote, they covered "She's fallin' apart" , tony looks very impressed but , man , he knows how to knit those licks... Then is the moment I have been waiting for, Robin grabs a crimson Telecaster, plugs it to a Fender amp kneels down nearby Roy and both stomp their feet .. oh my, they are doing "Yesterday's numbers" !! I get goose bumps , bodies around me are hovering and the two guys on stage are smiling to each other. They are doing a fantabulous version of one of my favourite Groovies songs and this lasts, Roy is making faces around the mirophone. Robin is impressive and will be even more in the next song, "Teenage Head", he stands up and does all the chords of theTeenage head album and even more, the bridge crossing in the middle of the song is masterfully executed... while Roy is singing like he was thirty years ago and emphasizes on the "Teenage love machine". This was the best version ever of that song for me... When it's over, everybody is feeling hilarious and totally excited, it has been unbelievably great. The young lady in front of me turns round, she is very moved, everyone can notice how her nipples are pointing through her jumper.. rock'n roll ! The lad next to me nearly swallowed his pencil.

Roy asks then Chris Wilson to join them on stage, but Chris is nowhere to be seen, probably wandering in the Paris streets under the sun. The encore will be, on request, "Rockin from the graveyard" from "Out after dark", a perfect ending.

It is so hot in the room, everybody rushes to the bar and the beeeeeers .. Roy stays alone on stage, he removes his glasses, looks pleased and smiles, I go to him and congratulates him for this terrific show, he thanks me in French .. Then I go to meet Robin who is giggling while I reach him. He certainly is one of the most friendly musician I have met. He acknowledges me for the guy from the Flamin Groovies list who sent him a mail two weeks ago about that very concert. To his request we discuss in French and again I write here that this "Teenage head" version I heard that Saturday afternoon was a killer !"

It was a monster. Revved up in every way...

For Peel, I know this was one of his favourite songs. Search it out and spin it for the guy... He was a legend in his time.

ORIGINAL DON GIBSON LYRICS
© 1960 Acuff-Rose Publications

If heartaches brought fame in love's crazy game,
I'd be a legend in my time.
If they gave gold statuettes for tears and regrets,
I'd be a legend in my time.
But they don't give awards, and there's no praise or fame
For a broken heart that's been broken over love that's in vain.

If loneliness meant world acclaim,
Then everyone would know my name --
I'd be a legend in my time.

Download Laura Cantrell's version as performed at Peel Acres HERE!

So nothing else for it. Bite the bullet and get back to some semblance of what passes for reality. I’m not a big fan of reality and realise full well that I’ve had more than my share of too much fun recently. Hanging out in Paris, where the sun shone, the beers flowed and the company was topper is something I could easily get used to. Being able to stand outside with a glass, where people dig good music and aren’t pondlife is something of a treat. This little corner of the city was positively buzzin’.



Friday’s scene took a brief dip when some opportunist scum nicked off with various Barracudas items that were a souvenir too far. They rose above it though and delivered a set peppered with those great songs that underline the fact that they’ve always been contenders as opposed to one hit wonders. I hope that Jeremy takes some time out from his work as a George Clooney likealook (George C. Looney) to get back with his gang on a more regular basis. Having Rob and Yan in the band to bolster Robin and Chris adds a wealth of power. The new album is all set to be a cracker. Of course the finale, on the day that we’d just heard of Greg’s passing, was even more poignant. He had mentored both The ‘cudas and The Flamin’ Groovies and when Roy (Loney) took the stage for the Yesterdays Numbers/Teenage Head/Slow Death triple whammy then we all felt the force. It was one of these great historical meldings that actually worked on all levels. Something that just takes on another dimension because of the sheer energy involved. I get the impression that this isn’t the last time Roy will take a stage with these guys. Let’s just leave it at that for now. Roy Loney has never gone away but he's gonna be coming to getcha.



La Maroquinarie is an excellent spot with good air conditioning to get shot of that smoke. The folks from Gloria that organised the shindig really know how to throw a party and Paris should be bloody glad that they’ve got people like that in their corner.

Roy Loney was actually in Paris to “open” the Roberta Bayley/Leee Black Childers photo exhibit in the café area upstairs from the club. His acoustic set was a revelation and theres a fabulous review on the Groovies Yahoo board that the author has kindly given me permission to share with you so watch this blog. Leee was great and is a huge Star Spangles fan so how exactly could he be any cooler? I met Roberta briefly and she says there’ll be a much bigger exhibit with a big rockin’ show to go along with it next May, so stay tuned for the poop on that as and when it comes together.



You’d think The Nomads played every night of the week. The fluidity and sheer rock chutzpah that they exude is always a revelation to me. I mean I know to expect a good show but they always raise the game. Anybody reading this in Norway should check out their local listings cuz they’re headed your way.

It was a heckuva couple of days with only one real downside. Being in chief pillock mode, I forgot to take Ms Stevie Gomez’s phone number with me and ergo couldn’t contact her. Head like a sieve but wodjagonnado… as it turns out we must have been within feet of one another both nights.

And now a further bombshell to follow Greg Shaw and Dave Godin. John Peel is the latest in a line of decent upstanding individuals that have shuffled of this mortal coil. I never knew Peel or had any personal contact with him really but he was someone you never even considered wouldn’t always be around.

Our friends, Laura Cantrell and Jeremy Tepper were just at his 65th Birthday Party when they were over at the end of August and the Glasgow band Camera Obscura played at the event. It was great to hear him introduce our other NY bud, Jon Graboff when he and Laura did the New Year thing with him last year. The chasm he will leave in terms of what he did in campaigning for “real music” is simply unfathomable. He was a true champion that played by gut instinct and this is the end of an era, the like of which there can never be again.

What a week... now JOHN PEEL!

Punk rock made even simpler: Dirty Punk Fuckin' Anarchy Machine.

Finally regained enough energy to post a few words on the Paris trip, 'cause wanting to include as much as possible in three days sure takes it's toll at my advanced age... But what the heck, it was well worth the bother. Highlights aplenty; Roy Loney joinin' the Barracudas on Fridaynight for a three song encore including a stellar take on Teenage Head, a moment that's sure to become the stuff of legends. The 'cudas own set was no slouch either, tho' a bit shaky in the vocal dept at times, but the guitar interplay between Chris Wilson and Robin Wills was amazing, a big chimin' Byrds/Groovies-styled wall of sound. Loney's acoustic set on Saturday afternoon was equally grand, tho' the hothouse temperatures drove me outside after a while. Roy still commands a lotta presence on stage, and finally seein' him in action for the first time connected some loose ends in my understanding of the what 'n whys of the Groovies eternal, uh, groovienes. Leave it to the Nomads to finish the festivities in truly fine style. Hell, they damn near tore the roof off playin' hit after hit to a (capacity) crowd of adorin' frenchies. Having seen the Nomads a number of times in recent years I'd say that they're currently way better than in their 80s "heyday". What else was up?, oh yeah, the Lee Black Childers/Roberta Bayley photo exhibit which was as cool as expected tho' could have used some more thought on the way the pictures were displayed. My long held believe that Paris is a wasteland when it comes to scoring 2nd vinyl was shot to shit as I discovered shop after shop offering the most amazing stuff, but with prices bein' equal to a petite bottle of Channel #5 I only brought back a modest stack of longplays. On a completely different cultural level I also visited the Musée d'Orsay for the wonderful New York and Modern Art. Alfred Stieglitz and His Circle exhibit. That, walkin' around endlessly in the autumn sun and shakin' hands and hangin' around with a large number of both new and familiar faces is the 'cause of my current zombie-like state, so I'll leave it at that and sign off with a tip of the hat to all those responsible for truly a memorable stay...

Miriam Linna, Billy Miller, Tim Warren and Dave Brown pay tribute to Greg Shaw on the Crypt Records site.

Jeremy (Gluck) posted this as a comment but I think it deserves a more prominent platform so apologies if you're industrious enough to pour over the commentary and this might be repetition to you...

"Dear NBT

I posted this on the Barracudas Group. It hasn't really hit me until now what a great creator and character we have lost. God gets it wrong again :( Post follows:

On the morning of our departure for Paris, Robin told me about Greg's sudden passing. From the time I was maybe 15 Greg Shaw and BOMP signified a very important part of rock'n'roll to me. I rememeber my friend's treasured copy of the Groovies single. I met Greg in 1982 when we played a show in Paris. He'd already released Drop Out on VOXX and I kept the letter he sent me about Drop Out for years, because for Greg to like my band was quite astounding and a validation of the highest order. I recall Robin and I rapping with Greg, his telling us about his mammoth record collexion. We kept in touch, he was always warm and very receptive and a true believer of the kind that is now in short supply. Few people have done as much for or meant as much to makers and lovers of real rock'n'roll. I'm proud to have counted Greg as a mentor and friend and am glad The Barracudas are still BOMP/VOXX artists. It's fair to say that Greg left a tremendous legacy and many are saddened by his passing. I know our feelings are with his family and closest friends. As Dylan said, Death is not the end. But sometimes, for a moment, that isn't much comfort. Jeremy"

Unbe-bloody-lievable. You have to look at all the pictures. Thanks to KP for the tip off. I might even buy a lottery ticket this week...

Great room. Fine music. Go get it...

It's been a peculiar few days. Got up at 3.30am on Friday 22nd to go catch a flight to Paris and caught J's post about the passing of our friend and utter inspiration, Greg Shaw. I knew he hadn't been well but I never exactly expected an exit so soon. It was made all the more poignant because we were about to be part an international breach of the peace keeping force heading France-ward to see The Barracudas and The Nomads. With the inclusion of Chris Wilson playing with the former and Roy Loney in town to play an acoustic set at the Roberta Bayley/Leee Black Childers photofest, there was heightened Groovies activity expected in the area. More about which later.

It's been a heady few days and I'm not in the condition to make much sense of any of it right now. It's 6.30am Monday and although I got up to go to work, I can't face it so I'm gonna bum around and try to make sense of what has gone down. I can tell you this though. There would have been no NBT if it hadn't been for the example and constant straight down the line enthusiasm that this guy breathed into his love for rock and roll. This is no time for the psychedelicized psoap opera that might have made up part of his real life but which ultimately made him the great man he was. With weaknesses like we all. When Andy Shernoff and I were in Kassel recently we talked about how Greg was really the catalyst of it all. The guy that took zinedom from a Sci-Fi thing into music writing. I just read Billy and Miriam's testament to Greg in The Norton Newsletter and had just been recalling the "Berlin Incident" myself. So more later, I'll try to make sense of all this when I'm a little more compus mentus. Needless to say we've lost a true Commander and Keeper of the Faith and that's not something that fills me with any confidence at all. I can tell you that his spirit was looming large in Paris this weekend though and I'll be pouring over those Bomps today when I should be working. It's the very least the man deserves...

RIP: Dave Godin.

Hate to be the bringer of sad news, but word is that Greg Shaw has passed away. No official confirmation yet, but...

If you find yourself in Milan this coming Saturday night, then Jimmy Dropout suggests the following entertainment...

LIVE @ C.S. GARIBALDI (CORSO GARIBALDI 89)

LEECHES
HIGHSCHOOL DROPOUTS
ANNA & THE PSYCHOMEN
TV LOBOTOMIES

info: 347 3114411

"Just confirmed! Lux and Ivy of The Cramps drop by Fool's Paradise with Rex this Saturday for some Orangeade and a round of platter chatter. Mad Daddy, Ghoulardi and the Flamingos will be discussed at length. Learn about the sleaziest motel the Cramps ever stayed at...the names of their cats...and Lux's favorite new gown. It all happens this Saturday at 6 PM EDT on WMFU".

Our ratings are on the up folks. Not sure why exactly but ‘tis a good thing. It means we’re building our demographic and might soon have to get into the territory of the reader survey. Aye, right. Just keep visiting and we’ll keep servin’ it up.



Hadn’t heard about GHOUL A GO-GO until I noticed Ben’s post on the Staysick board about The 5678’s upcoming appearance. Sure seems like it’s up your alley.

While Rhino is set to release an "alternative" 80s box-set entitled Left Of The Dial, we here at NBT are more eagerly lookin' forward to the long promised Children Of Nuggets set, tho' there's some serious head scratchin' goin' on over some of the more dubious selections that made it to the set's shortlist. Comments on this?.

"Eddie Shaw from the legendary Monks answers Poptones.co.uk's Questions Of Doom about being in thee first legendary proto-punk band of the sixties, being in an American feedback freak-out band in ''66 Germany, inventing noise music, the album 'Black Monk Time' and well ... the history of one of the most important punk bands ever. This is a fantastic interview from an amazing band".

Snarky Ramone sent in this link for The Village Voice...

Last Ramones Standing by John Piccarella... Marky and Tommy discuss Joey, Johnny, Dee Dee, the documentary, the stage musical, the DVD, and drumming.

Not necessarily in that order...

I have no idea how many shopping days it is until Santa comes but what i do know is that this audiobook crew specialize in wares that make fine gifts for the discerning so and so that has pretty much everything...

Joss "Memphis" Hutton wishes it to be known that...

Artprojx and Victoria Miro Gallery presents



UK premiere of William Eggleston's legendary experimental film, in the presence of the artist on Sunday 21 November 6pm - 8pm at the Prince Charles Cinema · 7 Leicester Place · London WC2

This one-off film, true cinéma vérité, was shot in the 1970s on early handicam and captures the beginning of a profoundly disenchanted decade. Drawing on intuition and ego Eggleston's scathing study of Memphis's shady underground exposes a world of wild nights, hard liquor, rock, drugs and firearms, of which he was a principal hell raiser.

Born in Memphis in 1939, William Eggleston has, for almost fifty years, photographed American life and in particular the southern states. Hailed as the father of colour photography, his ability to find beauty in the banal has changed the way we look at the world.

Stranded in Canton will be released on DVD later this year. Tickets £10 from Prince Charles Cinema Box Office 020 7494 3654 Further information & ticket discount ARTUPDATE.COM/LONDON

Another cool picture gallery featurin' many NBT faves: Mindless Music Photos.

While I'm unable to attent myself, please note that the mighty Nitwitz are doin' four shows here in Holland this weekend: Fri. 22 - Simplon, Groningen. Sat. 23 - Dystopia, Den Haag. Sun. 24 - Cafe De Pits, Amsterdam. Mon. 25 - De Bliksem, Den Helder. All, except the first show, together with Sweden's Sewergrooves.
A full scale European tour is in the works for spring 2005, hopefully coinciding with the long promised 2nd full-length...

A message this morning from Gary Gold suggested that Jandek had played the Instal Festival in Glasgow. I figured that if he did then one man would know. He did and here's a front line report from Mr David Keenan...

"Lindsay

Yeah, it's true, I didn't get to speak to him, no one did except my friend Barry who booked him and Richard Youngs and Alex Neilson who played with him. He never once said he was Jandek, just a rep of Corwood Industries. Said to Alex afterwards that the live show was the first time he had ever felt truly alive. Smiled on stage once. Looked very emaciated. Apparently in rehearsal, he told the group he had three types of songs and he would signal by the way he played guitar what type each one was, either Blues, Ballad or Brutal(!). He had been in Glasgow for a week, flew over on his own money so that he was under no obligation to play if he didn't feel like it. The venue was emptied while he practiced and no one was allowed to announce he was playing or he would pull the show. I knew he was thinking about doing it for a while and finally over the last few days realised it was happening but was unable to tell anyone. We have about 70 pics in all. The concert was filmed with Jandek having the option of releasing it as a DVD on Corwood(!). Everyone here is still in a daze, can't believe it happened, the concert was everything you could've hoped from a Jandek show, crazy heavy Velvets spiked blues guitar, Richard playing Holger-Czukay style bass throbs, Alex playing heavy and free and that fucking voice sounded like it was straight from the void, set of blasted blues, Haino said afterwards "Jandek *is* the blues." Jandek looked like he was realy enjoying it and pulled a few good shapes too, never said one thing though, took his time packing his guitar but no one approached him and he left the venue as abruptly as he had arrived. All the songs were of heartbreak and abandon, few funny lines too, like when he suddenly exploded "I made the decision to get real wild!" and everyone began screaming. Apparently he loved the screams, looks like he wants to do it again, maybe even announce it next time. Anyway, still trying to piece it all together. Who could've thunk it? Dx"

Now that's what you could call a world exclusive I believe.... thanks David...

The Susquehanna Industrial Tool and Die Company site is up and atcha.

It’s Monday again. Yippee, (not). So how is it? All though the week at work it’s like somebody threw “The Magic Boomerang”? How many of you are old enough to remember that 60’s Australian show or have even heard of it?? Anyway, time stands still all during the day, Monday to Friday, and accelerates in the evenings and at weekends. Can’t some of these quantum physicists or something get this sorted.?

That was quite a rant I “inspired” Mr Stigliano to let loose after posting the freeway blog thing yesterday. Shemp, Jesus, they’re all the same to me chief. After November 2nd we’ll all (that’s the collective global village and beyond) have to live with the backwash of what’s gonna go down (United) Stateside. I think we should club together and get Chris one of those “cuddle cross” things to keep him safe in his cabin in the woods. Enough with the flippancy, reality will bite, as sure as eggs is eggs…

From 60sgaragebands.com: The next issue of UGLY THINGS (#22) is tentatively scheduled to hit the streets by the end of October, and it again looks like another stellar issue: "First of all there is the epic - and we do mean EPIC - third installment of The Misunderstood story. Co-headlining is the story of 'The Other Them': The Belfast Gypsies by Richie Unterberger. We have also eye-opening exclusive interviews with Ace Kefford of The Move and Chris Youlden of Savoy Brown, and features on The Wild Cherries and The Twiliters. Plus 'The Prehistoric Pretty Things': the scoop from their pre-Viv Prince drummer, Viv Broughton, complete with drop-dead cool, never-before-seen prehistoric photos. As with every issue we trip around the world to uncover stories on bands like The Matadors from Czechoslovakia, The Checkmates from Singapore, The Speakers from Colombia, Nigeria's Fela Kuti and France's own Plastic Bertrand."

In other exciting news on The UGLY THINGS front, currently in the very early planning stages is a CD compilation of The Bush / Bushmen. According to Mike Stax, "So far there are four acetate tracks, all from 1966. The Bushmen tapes are probably from 1965, and there may be more Bush stuff from 1966-67, plus of course the three singles on Hiback." We'll provide more information as it becomes available.

No Elvis, Beatles or the Rolling Stones in the November issue of Mojo but look out for an eight-page farewell to the Ramones comprising of an appreciation of the band by Charles Shaar Murray, an eyewitness account of the sessions for End of the Century, and one of Johnny’s last interviews. Add an article about the proto-punk significance of the Saints, complete with a side-bar that cites Rocket from the Tombs, Dictators, Radio Birdman and the Hammersmith Gorillas (inc. picture), plus a short feature about the One Hit Wonder status of the Barracudas and you have something worth visiting WH Smiths for ... apart from gawping at male “lifestyle” magazines. Hey, not me mister!

Talking of El ‘Cudas, the boys were on fine form the other night at the Borderline just off the Charring Cross Road in London. Their hour-long set began with thirty minutes of surf/punk material while the second half hour added a primed Chris Wilson with the emphasis on later period tunes. How old is Wilson? 53? 54? 55? ‘cause he sure is looking fit and well for someone who has done a lot of rock’n’rolling and imbibed the odd dram of whisky. Bounding onto the stage wearing a big shirt and an even bigger semi-solid guitar he tore into “I Can’t Pretend” and in so doing brought the sort of perfectly balanced twin-guitar attack that you rarely witness but often dream about. While Wills concentrated on chords, Wilson added tasteful fills and would occasionally hit the neck of his guitar or the whammy bar for sheer devilment. Jeremy Gluck was on great form too and made the occasional foray into the decent-sized crowd while the two guys from the Scoundrelles built the musical foundations upon which Wills and Wilson launched themselves effortlessly. Pure magic for those of us who still believe in this kinda stuff. If someone had said to me at the Hope & Anchor in ’84 that “…in twenty years time you’re gonna see this band again and they’re gonna be every bit of good, if not better,” I would have demanded a pint of whatever they were drinking. Paris, are you ready?

Joe Bonomo, the chap researching and writing a book about the Fleshtones, has tipped us to a nice little photo gallery that contains lots of moody black and white shots of acts such as the Chesterfield Kings, Shadowy Men On A Shadowy Planet, Tav Falco, Gun Club, Per Ubu etc taken by Derek von Essen. With regards to his book, Joe is still working away and has now interviewed such revered figures as Andy Shernoff, Handsome Dick Manitoba, Billy and Miriam at Norton Records, Marty Thau and dozens of other people that readers of NBT will be familiar with. Unfortunately, Debbie Harry put the phone down on Joe but what would you do if were an international sex symbol and someone rang up saying : “Hi, Ms. Harry, it’s the guy who’s writing the book about [the] Fleshtones.”? Whatever, Joe remains on the look-out for a publisher and would dearly love to hear from any interested media moguls. If one doesn’t come forward soon then it might have to be another case for NBT International Publishing, so be warned. The text holds a wider message than simply being the account of yet another obscure RnR band and will slot nicely alongside your growing collection of books about the Ramones.

So you’ve grooved to the Nuggets boxsets and now want to delve deeper into 60s garage punk but have heard all kinds of rumours about the bootleg quality of Boulders and Pebbles. Then why not head over to the MP3 section of the Garage Rock Radio website and dig into approximately 50 prime cuts by the likes of the Paragons, Romancers, Zakary Thaks, Bad Seeds, King’s Ransom, Starfires and all? The files are free and your work colleagues will thank you.

So long Rockin' Granny. Cordell Jackson dead at 81...

Ace/Big Beat is about to unleash a revamped 25th anniversary edition of the Damned's Machine Gun Etiquette album w/ truckloads of extras.

Rob Jovanovic's Big Star: The Story of Rock's Forgotten Band will be published on November 1st.

Talk about NOT having one's finger anywhere near the pulse... how can one of yer favourite bands of all time have an album come out on Evangeline Recorded Works and do a show at The Borderline in London and you not have a scoob about it until three weeks after the bloody event? Well that's the situation I find myself in regarding The Blasters 4-11-44 which allegedly came out on 4-10-04. Anyway, more on that when I get to playing catch up... you can however do that now by hitting the Blasters listing in the sidebar yonder.

I'm gonna play on the Freeway Blog now... (thanks for the tip off Marty!)

The Master Plan (with Andy Shernoff (Dictators), Keith Streng & Bill Milhizer (Fleshtones) and Paul Johnson (Waxing Poetics) will be out and about on
19th November @ The Continental , NY, NY w/ The Waldos
20th November @ Arties Bar, Troy NY
21st November @ Ottos Shrunken Head , NY, NY

Thanks to Adam for pointing out that this was for November and not October... L

From the wonderful world of eBay we bring you Rock n' Roll panties.

"Garage music is not bad,
because Christ was born in a manger,
which was probably like a garage of that time."
Sky Saxon - The Vintage Years: Long but interesting piece on Sky in the 70s.

RIP: Cordell Jackson

Thursday, October 28th, 8pm - 11pm Music to Spazz By with Dave the Spazz on WFMU with Arch Hall Jr., Nathaniel Mayer & Miriam Linna.
"An incredible line-up of superstars! Rock & Roll movie star Arch Hall, Jr. (Wild Guitar, The Choppers, Eegah, The Sadist) chats with Dave about movies, his band The Archers featuring Dobie "The In Crowd" Gray, and all things related to Konga Joe. Soul legend Nathaniel "Village of Love" Mayer will also be on hand to discuss his brand new release on Fat Possum Records and his upcoming area appearance. Add Bad Seed Honcho Miriam Linna to the mix and you've got one heck of an insane show!".
(with thanks to Jan Kooi for the tip-off on both this and the the entry above).

There's a 4 hour(!) show on the Kassel Punk Kongress comin atcha from my buddy BIGor on Radio Student in Slovenia tonight. Seems like so much longer ago than three weeks I can tell ya.

CD Universe is offering the MC 5 - A True Testimonial DVD at $11.89 a pop and claims a street date for Dec 31 (?!).

The 48th London Film Festival will host the first European screening of Edgeplay: A Film About The Runaways on October 24 and 25.

A footnote... you can find Edgeplay clips here.

The output of Captain Sensible's first post Damned outfit King only amounted to one John Peel session that was recently issued on vinyl in the US. However the BBC got word of this project and immediatly threatened with legal action, but those interested might wanna keep an eye out on eBay...

Utrecht was hardly Beat-Central in the 1960s but did produce a small number of cool bands (a basic introduction can be found here).
One of the top-draws in the local scene back then, The Mods, are doing a reunion show on November 7 at the Veemarkthallen along with the Driftin' Five. No guarantees from this end about this turnin' out to be either an oldies yawn fest or that the fire's still burning, just figured some of you might like to check it out.

The Japanese Wizzard In Vinyl label has released two CDs documenting the complete early works of Ohio legends the Rubber City Rebels: "The Akron Years - Features the '77 Clone sessions, plus live from The Crypt and awesome video content, and The Hollywood Years - Digitally Re-mastered Re-mixed '79 Capitol sessions plus bonus tracks and 1980 KROQ interview".

To view the flyer in its full size glory, click HERE!

Wish it wasnae such a long way to Germany. Agent Heiko has informed me of the imminent happenings...

"Friday in Berlin is some kinda Ramones exhibition with films, memorabilia and Dee Dee paintings but I dont have much info yet. We're playing with our mates Commando Berlin and than saturday and sunday in meißen with the Melones."

Good to hear that HANK RAY is still shakin', rattlin' and rollin' the way that only he can lay it down.



Big John Bates will be blazing a trail across Europe in December, bypassing the UK, but hitting up clubs in more deserving parts of the world. Take a look at the website and there's no way you'll want to sit that one out.

Enter the world of Rockin' Jelly Bean!

Robert Quine Memorial event 12/4.
From the Richard Hell board:
"The Robert Quine event is confirmed. It's being organized by Hell, Jody Harris, Ivan Julian, Marc Ribot, and Jim Marshall. It will take place Saturday afternoon, December 4th, at CBGB's Gallery (next door to the club), approx. 3:00-8:00 PM. The format will be that people who knew and/or worked with Quine will each get up to ten minutes (I think) to do or say something in tribute to or memory of Quine. There will be musical equipment on stage for anyone who wants to perform, but many will just speak. I don't know yet who's going to participate except obviously the organizers. Many people have expressed interest."

Fezwrecker are co-ordinating a European Invasion for The Bonniwell Music Machine. Shows are as follows...



12 Nov 2004 Mestre, Italy – “Hazy Shade of Winter” Festival, The Jam Club
13 Nov 2004 Munich, Germany – Atomic Café
16 Nov 2004 London, UK –Islington Academy (Marquee Club)
17 Nov 2004 Amsterdam, Netherlands – Paradiso
19 Nov 2004 Benidorm, Spain – “Wild Weekend” Festival
21 Nov 2004 Berlin, Germany – Roter Salon, Volksbühne
23 Nov 2004 Paris, France – Mains d'Oeuvres

"Regarded as a founding pioneer of “garage rock” in 1966, and often called “the godfather of punk,”legendary songwriter Sean Bonniwell and The Bonniwell Music Machine is performing in Europe for the first time ever this November, in a series of limited engagements of “The Turn On Europe Tour.”

Seems like we're getting a slow but steady increase in the number of visitors to this THING. Good. We try to update and add regularly to keep the flow of information going. Nothing worse than visiting an alleged resource that is seldom, if ever updated.

What about the comments facility? Should we retain it? I'm not sure that this is adding anything to the "experience" and would appreciate any angle on that subject that you, the readers, might have. Other than that, keep doing what you're doing. Spread the word on our existence and hep us to anything you reckon that we should be putting the word out on.

It's time for the nose to go back to the grindstone that just about pays for my habit. Later...