Mike McEchron does a steller job with his Cramps campaigning and has just put up a great page of Cramps T-shirt designs. Wish I had photos of some of the old LOTC shirts but unfortunately tis not to be. What about any of you folks? I know I have a pic of a youthful David Alvin Esq. sporting one but the lord only knows where that is. When Mike isn't working his fingers to the bone, he's hepping us to stuff like Tom Heinl who is like a cross between combo period Ben Vaughn and Homer Henderson. Yep that reads very good indeed and he's opening for Holly Golightly on her US tour. While I chase up his album go listen to the tunes on his site. (Thanks for the tip Mike).

David Muxlow just got back from seeing The 5678's, with an opening band called NAKED RUBY that he reckons you folks would like.

And last (but by no means least), Mrs Stim sent me this link which appeals to my puerile sweary = funny base instinct. It is NOT work friendly and may cause offense. Maybe she was trying to tell me something?

Reading Don's thing there about TFC pretty much encapsulates what that group is about. Their critical acclaim notwithstanding, I have no idea why no meganormous hits have transpired during their career. Here is a band that deserves to sell a gazillion records. Many combos who directly steal, appropriate or are obviously influenced by do so I'd like to see a little justice done here. Of course generally, what is actually done and what I consider are generally poles apart.

The Proclaimers cd with today's issue of The Scotsman brought back some memories of seeing them open for The Cateran at The Onion Cellar in Edinburgh. They blew me away but the concensus as I remember was that they were hokey. If they'd looked like Don and Phil Everly it mighta been a different story. I remember talking to a couple of labels about how great they were. Like The Angry Corries crossed with Simon and Garfunkel but nobody listened. Not until they appeared on The Tube singing "Letter From America" and that's where it all took legs. They're a great act who can balance hokey with a real professional edge. They've had a couple of hits though and it's time the Fanclub had the same. Don't you think?

Hot off the press from brother Don in 'Frisco...

"just back from bimbo's where glasgow's finest performed what can only be described as a triumphant performance. first of all, thank you to francis from me and cynthia for the passes which in no way affected the following completely unbiased report...

second, altho i have a few teenage fanclub albums i don't have them all and i must admit that most of what i've heard by them over the years (aside from their latest album and the incredible SONGS FROM NORTHERN BRITAIN) i heard over and over again in my buddy tom's car. that and the fact that i was under the influence of 12 yr old macallan (seemed appopriate) means i can't tell you every song they did or in what order.

but everyone else in the capacity crowd certainly knew every song. they screamed like it was the beatles fer chrissake. well, it WAS one great tune after another... classics like "start again", "i need direction", "your love is the place where i come from", "sparky's dream"... even their first record, "everything flows". they did a lot from the new album including "slow fade", "only with you", and my fave: "it's all in my mind", after which a friend of mine who was there said, "that's one of the greatest pop songs ever" and i agree.

they did two encores and left with a sped up "what you do to me" (!)

guitars: a real ('60's, not korean) epiphone casino, gibson les paul, gibson 335, fender precision bass. guitar amps were fender combos and the bass guy had a huge ampeg which sounded tremendous.

the secret to teenage fanclub's rhythm guitar sound: capo. that's where that chimey big star guitar sound comes from.

super tight harmonies -- i mean it was astounding. it was almost too much of a good thing. you needed a few nothing songs in between if you know what i mean. but i'm not complaining. the only complaint i have is the club. i hate bimbo's. it's all glitz. (they joked about the fog machine). not the best sound. and they constantly hassle you about where to stand no matter where you are. managed to say hi to francis the drummer before bimbo's security cleared the place. by the way, the crowd was - not all - but way too many - big doofus guys which, given the type of music, i didn't quite understand. and the place was too small. hopefully next time they'll play the fillmore. but no matter where they're at catch these guys if you can...as they say in my beloved glasgow... fucckhin' (gotta capture that gutteral brogue) fantastic!" - dc

The Nomads are headed for Belgium in early September.

Now heres some news of something REALLY unmissable happening in the UK...

"Dear Boogaloo enthusiasts, and those who should be,

Please note that Phast Phreddie, the Boogaloo Omnibus will be vacationing in the lovely country of Great Britain during the coming weeks--August 12 to 29. If your vacation happens to coincide with his, you may want to note that he will be spinning his groovy records at select locations in London and Brighton while there. Below is a list of the dates, complete with websites in order for one to check the scene.

If you are not lucky enough to be vacationing in England during this time frame, perhaps you know someone who happens to live there and would be interested in attending these events--if so, please forward this message to the appropriate parties.

Perhaps you are receiving this because you are already in England. Very Groovy. In that case, you have no excuse. We will see you at one or all of these events.

Dig it:


Saturday August 13th: Phast DJ-ing at South London Pacific, in London.
www.southlondonpacific.com

Friday August 19th: Phast DJ-ing at the Dirty Water Club in London.
www.dirtywaterclub.com

Saturday August 20th: Phast DJ-ing at the New Untouchables FAB party in London. www.newuntouchables.com

Thursday August 25: Phast DJ-ing at the Hot Funky & Sweaty dance party in London. http://www.hotfunkyandsweaty.co.uk/

Saturday August 27th: Phast DJ-ing in the afternoon at the Volks Club in Brighton, at the New Untouchables' "The Classic" Brighton Weekender.
www.newuntouchables.com

Sunday August 28th: Phast DJ-ing Raison D'Etre dance party.
http://www.reason2b.net/home"

Mr Spence would like to convey the following...

"Howdy Doody Pop-Pickers!

Gotta loada rockin' action goin' down in the next week or so.

THURS 11TH AUG - TRILLIANS, NEWCASTLE £? early show, doors - 7pm

THE COYOTE MEN - the original rock'n'roll wrasslin' garage punks back in the ring!
THEE EXCITERS - fuzzed-out garage punkers from Southampton, ex-Nuthins, Sires
THE GREASE MONKEYS - Glasgow's hardy perrenials crankin' up the garage punk
Thee EXCITERS webpage... www.delincuentesrecords.bravehost.com/theeexciters.html

FRI 12TH AUG - Funhouse AT THE BARFLY, GLASGOW
£5/£4 conc. free entry before 10.30 doors - 8 -til- 3

THEE EXCITERS (onstage midnight approx)

SAT 13TH AUG - Club Foot at NECTAR, (Cowgate opp. Bannermans) EDINBURGH

free entry (just drink loads so the bands get paid!) doors - poss 9/10 (e-mail for
more details)
THEE EXCITERS
THE GREASE MONKEYS

SUN 14TH AUG - THE TUNNELS, ABERDEEN £? doors - ?

THEE EXCITERS
THE GREASE MONKEYS

MON 15TH AUG - STEREO, Kelvinhaugh St., GLASGOW £5 doors - 8.30

THE NERDS Italian destructo punk... www.thenerdsrockinferno.com
THE DANGERFIELDS Belfast Zeke-rawk... www.thedangerfields.com
THE NEVERLAND SLEEPOVERS Glasgow's nastiest!
CHEVY & THE CHASERS local punk rock'n'rollers

THURS 18TH AUG - 13TH NOTE CAFE, King St., GLASGOW £3 doors - 9

THE GREASE MONKEYS - one last gig before recording the next LP w/ Tim Kerr
THE NUKES - sci-fi surf rock'n'roll from Edinburgh (stripped down Nucleotides line-up)
LUMMOX - Glasgow's most antisocial! is it good badtime or bad goodtime???

...anyways, hope to see you at one of these gigs.
All the Best....................Jim"

and now LITTLE MILTON is gone...

Ben Weasel's True Story From the Path of Enlightenment!

A new (to me) UK freebie music tabloid that's a tad reminiscent of US paper, Arthur.
THE STOOL PIGEON is available throughout the UK, consult the website for availability. If any overseas readers want a copy then I'm happy to pick it up and send it to you for just the postage.

Also, along the lines of the recent TFC cd, there's a Proclaimers cd with this Saturday's edition of The Scotsman. Enthusiasts not of this Parish should let me know if they want one by Saturday am (GMT).

RIP - Fred Smith (The Olympics) A footnote from the Rev. P. P. Patterson of Brooklyn - "The LA Times obit says he wrote "Harlem Shuffle." He did not (according to the label or BMI website), but he did co-produce it with Bob & Earl.", Eugene Record (The Chi-lites) and Mr T informed me of the passing of Al Aronowitz ("one of the first professional journalists to cover rock 'n' roll" - NY Times).
Neither of the artists referred to on the cover of his book fill me with much in the way of excitement but both of inspired many of the folks that fuel the music we thrive upon.

Amsterdam SLEAZEFEST anyone?

Received an mp3 of Springsteen performing "Dream Baby Dream" (Thanks H). At first I wasn't sure what to make of it but the mesmeric, This Mortal Coil-esque rendition has got under my skin. It's a remote, un-nerving reading. Strangely true to the seismic nature of the original "Keep Your Dreams" but apocalyptically stark and uncompromising. I wonder what conventional Boss fans make of it?

RIP: Constant Nieuwenhuis.

SUZY & LOS QUATTRO -
LIPSTICK TO JAPAN TOUR 2005

29th October - Tokyo - Shimokitazawa MOSAIC
31st October - Saitama - Ohmiya HEARTS (Halloween party)
2nd November - Aichi - Nagoya SONSET STRIP
3rd November - Osaka - Fukushima LIVE SQUARE 2nd LINE
4th November - Ishikawa - Kanazawa VAN VAN V4
5th November - Tokyo - Kichijoji PLANET K

(Thanks to Jonathan for the info)

It was something of an honour to be asked to do a liner note for the Asian Man re-issue of Screeching Weasel's "Wiggle" album. I sometimes see some numbnut swipes at the band whereupon someone who patently doesn't get them writes 'em off as poppy punk. This practice irritates me but what can you do? So anyway, referring back to the original version of the album to prepare the rant - it sounded pretty good to me but Mass (Giorgini) has really opened up a can of whup-ass on the new version. It underlines everything about the fact that this combo mean way more to me than The Clash. The songs are brilliant, they crunch and fuelled the final push of punk rock toward the overground. So, in it's reconstituted form - all the things that you maybe had to work to hear within the maelstrom are tweaked and erect. It also has "Fuck The World". An anthem for a new generation.


The album "Anthem For A New Generation" just keeps those short, sharp shocks of joy comin'. If the Weasel had played the game and kow-towed then they woulda been ginormous. I mean they were pretty bloody big without any hype or bullshit but it's scary to consider the heights that they should be scaling. Ben Weasel is responsible for some of the best Ramones songs the Ramones never wrote and the guitars on all Weasel produce just shred. The harmonics are spine-tingling.


"How To Make Enemies And Irritate People" documents the period that Mike Dirnt of Green Day weighed in. It's a juggernaut that includes a shoulda been all over the charts version of Josie Cotton's "Johnny Are You Queer". Given their penchant for Ramonic titles was this a bit of fun being poked at Mr Cummings. I have to admit that crossed my mind but I also know that Ben held John(ny) in very high esteem so maybe not. I wish they'd got him in to write the material for their latter albums, I know that. It would have been really something to hear Joey sing "Surf Goddess" co-written with Joe King of The Queers. I can't believe this was recorded 11 bloody years ago.


"Kill The Musicians" is an odds and sods type collection of material from every stage of the Weasel phenomenon. It reflects the breadth of the band's capabilities and how the conflicts just made them stronger. Next up is a collection of the Fat Wreck years and also an Asian Man version of The Riverdales albums but before that, why don't you take up this offer... "SCREECHING WEASEL "BOX SET" DEAL -- 6 CDS FOR $40! In honor of the SCREECHING WEASEL reissues, we are offering you an amazing deal for all 6 CDS for $40 plus a collectable Screeching Weasel poster SIGNED BY THE BAND! You'll get a copy of "Boogadaboogadaboogada," "My Brain Hurts," "Wiggle," "Anthem for A New Tomorrow," "How to Make Enemies and Irritate People," and "Kill The Musicians" We sold out of the first 25, but luckily we just got another 50 posters! Once they're gone they're gone, so CALL NOW (408)395-0662."

So, if you never heard them, or never gave 'em a chance because you figured they were some kinda Maximum Rock'n'Roll spawned bollocks - then you need to reconsider. Screeching Weasel were way more than just a cool logo.

Stuart McHugh of Is This Music has the following shows organised, the first three in the Home of The Skids - Dunfermline. The Carnegie Hall is a great venue and should be supported!

Wednesday, August 25th

Saint Jude's Infirmary, Indafusion and Taylor Kane, Dunfermline Carnegie Hall

Thursday, August 26th

Malcolm Middleton/ My Latest Novel/ Flying Matchstick Men with compere Jim Gellatly, Dunfermline Carnegie Hall

Friday, August 27th

James Yorkston and the Athletes/ King Biscuit Time, compered by Vic Galloway, Dunfermline Carnegie Hall

Wednesday August 31st

Flying Matchstick Men, The Aphrodisiacs, Satellite Dub and Calvin, @ The Universal Bar, Glasgow, Sauchiehall Lane. (Part of the MusicWorks conference)

Somewhat alarmed at the fact that tomorrow is August 1st and that the weekend has gone up in smoke again. Achievement in relation to time, even to the extent of replying to e-mail is taking a downward slide. There are realities to attend to that suck whatever green is around for no tangible return but we're all in that boat.

I've had a few senior moments this week. Those where you can't remember names and events the way you used to. Now that might be down to diet but it's more likely to be the onslaught of age. The rapid stepping up of that precious commodity called time. I know, I've harped on about it before but it seems to me that we're trapped doing stuff that is simply no fun as the sands trickle into the lower portion of the hourglass. That said it was good to catch up with Laura and some other folks this week. It could be said that I just need to chill out and let the pieces fall into place but anybody with any experience of being around me will know that homey can't play that logic.

One other plus this past week, was to be able to check out the "work in progress" that will be The Star Spangles "Rite Over Rooftops". The follow up to "Bazooka" has all the hallmarks that today's pop kids could use in their lives if they only just knew it. But how to treat the attention deficit disorder that stands between the band and their prospective audience? Wish I bleedin' knew...

August is shaping up to be a busy time so that's something. Several high profile visitors and a Film Festival will divert what's left of my mind from the numbnuts that I have to tholl in order to eat. Another project is to try and get my turntable sorted out or a replacement because there's a bunch of vinyl here that requires attending to. The remainder of Sunday awaits as do the chores. Catch you on yonder flipside...

Not sure how things are on your end, but over here the festival season is in full swing. I have no idea how many of these things are on this summer, but it seems that even the tiniest dot on the map has it's own fest these days. God knows why people still bother; either you're up to your knees in mud or you get burned alive in the sun. And lets not forget the (overpriced) stale beer, hamburger stench, waiting in line just to take a pee, ugly tattoos, ugly hairdos and ugly people ("non-conformist, just like everybody else"). That, and the wind blowing off the sound of your favorite band in just the opposite direction of where you're standing. Gimme a small place that has trouble gettin' a crowd that numbers above three figures any day.

Some very entertaining MASH-UP action for those who get a kick outta such things.

Just tonight I heard Suicide's "Dream Baby Dream" being used on a trailer for a show called "So You Want To Be A Property Developer". Me no comprendé, neither.

The hastily-arranged Laura Cantrell Fopp instore rounded up a fair turn-out who were treated to the first appearance in Glasgow of Dave Schramm and Steve Goulding.



The short seven-song showcase featured "14th Street", "California Rose", "Letters", "All The Same To You", "Two Seconds", "Wishful Thinking" and "Old Downtown". After that Laura had to scoot up to the BBC to complete the BBC Radio Thrift Shop programmes which start going out a week from today at 8.05pm until 10pm on Fridays. The "Listen Again" facility will of course be available for a week following each broadcast.

Just got back from spending a week in the north-eastern part of Holland with Alice and Bastiaan, where we'd rented a small cottage just outside the middle of nowhere. The peace and quiet resulted in a lot of, apparently much needed, sleep, but I also found time to wade through 'Big bosoms and Square Jaws', the new Russ Meyer biography by Jimmy McDonough (Crown). Having passed on Meyer's way too expensive autobio at the time, this is a welcome, and affordable, substitute, not to mention the fact that this goes beyond Russ' own, uh, chestbeating and delivers dissident POV's as well. The story remains a fascinating one of course. I figure you all know the basic out-line, but this book contains a wealth of new (at least to me) information as well. Besides, McDonough is pretty much on the ball often relating Meyer's work to rock'n'roll rather than cinema, plus his writing style is often funny and always to the point. So yes, this gets both thumbs up, even if the pictures are somewhat undersized. During our trip the carstereo had the Fleshtones' latest 'beachhead' (Yep Roc) on heavy rotation. Maybe not the knock-out punch one would have hoped for, what with their thirtieth anniversary due next year, but still a pretty solid offering. Those expecting something new obviously don't have a clue, but longtime fans will agree that 'Bigger And Better', 'Pretty, Pretty, Pretty' and 'I Am What I Am' will make fine additions to the live set. Fingers crossed that Joe Bonomo's long promised book on the band will be ready for next year's festivities.

SAVE CBGB BENEFIT SHOWS. Advance tickets are available at TICKETWEB.COM

AUGUST

8/2 JOKER 5 SPEED
8/3 RANA, SOUND OF URCHIN, BIG MACHINE [buy tickets]
8/4 CHEVELLE [buy tickets]
8/5 BUSH TETRAS
8/9 APHASIA, SHORTIE
8/10 AGAINST ME, THE EXIT, WORLD INFERNO FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY
8/12 MISFITS
8/13 VANS WARPED TOUR AFTER PARTY
8/14 GORILLA BISCUITS, BLACK TRAIN JACK
8/15 RAW POWER
8/19 LIVING COLOUR
8/20 THE VANDALS
8/22 KID DYNAMITE, GREYAREA
8/26 DEAD BOYS, FLIPPER, PETER AND THE TEST TUBE BABIES, ADRENALIN O.D. ,
FURIOUS GEORGE [buy tickets]
8/27 DEAD BOYS, ANTI-NOWHERE LEAGUE, NIHILISTICS, SFA [buy tickets]
8/28 SHAM 69, FLIPPER, CHEETAH CHROME & THE BLACK ANGELS [buy tickets]
8/29 SMAM 69, THE RADICTS [buy tickets]

ALSO PLAYING IN AUGUST IS YOUTH BRIGADE, FANG, BILLY CLUB AND MORE TBA LATER.

SEPTEMBER

9/1 CONFLICT, VERBAL ABUSE, LOST CHEEREES [buy tickets]
9/2 CONFLICT, LOST CHEEREES [buy tickets]
9/3 TODAY IS THE DAY, CIRCLE OF DEAD CHILDREN, ADOLYNE
9/4 SICK OF IT ALL, FEARLESS VAMPIRE KILLERS, MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD
9/6 DR. KNOW, DAYGLO ABORTIONS, THE ACCUSED
9/7 DR. KNOW, DAYGLO ABORTIONS, THE ACCUSED
9/8 THE EXPLOITED
9/9 CIRCLE JERKS, ADOLESCENTS, D.I. , CHANNEL 3, ZERO BOYS, ELECTRIC FRANKENSTEIN [buy tickets]
9/10 CIRCLE JERKS, ADOLESCENTS, D.I., CHANNEL 3, ZERO BOYS [buy tickets]

That Laura Cantrell in-store will be at 1pm at the Union Street branch of FOPP in Glasgow. Get along there if you can. This'll be the first time that Dave Schramm has played with Laura over here. Ms Cantrell will also be putting the finishing touches to her BBC Radio Thrift Shop programmes which start going out next Friday (7th August?) I think...

Other than that, it's the old "heid-doon, breenge through" the day scenario. Nowt else for it.

Well, I REALLY can't be arsed today and should really be outta here by now. "That Summer Feeling" brought upon by the BMX Bandits on Saturday has given way to something altogether more volatile. Listening to the wireless there, apparently those guys who botched last Thursday's attacks on London weren't just (potential) bombers. No, they were benefit cheats as well! Who knows what evil... etc. So anyway, never one to put off the inevitable, it's time to face the day. Hope to be able to convey some info with regard to a Glasgow in-store between now and Thursday by Laura Cantrell. There is a little light at the end of the tunnel then...

Managed to stay away from this thing for much of yesterday... and am just running outta the door but here's another coupla albums for your consideration...


THE GROOVERS “Undergroove” on Blood Red is a lithe 13 song proto-garage with 50’s echo treat. Like a fractured Pink Slip Daddy, the opening salvo “Okay Boys!” is a co-write with Ben Vaughn. They’ve captured that twang that separates the wheat from the chaff and tempered it with just enough noise to deliver a thumping torrent. As if The Scientists were jamming with The Fleshtones. These French guys know their onions alright, the “wild saxophone”, er, break on “G/C’mon” is utterly unexpected and all of a sudden we’re in some kinda twisted “Funhouse” situation. There are many strings to The Groovers bow and this is a world class set of songs. The accent of the vocals gives it an exotic quality and recalls the pleasure of hearing a group like The Dogs way back two of those decade things ago. “I’ve Never Realised” has that “What Goes On” shuffle to it. Intense and locked into what else but an ultimate groove. Ploughing a furrow straight in the middle of what’s left of that mind of yours.


Back In Spades is a curious name. Back from where exactly? I know the connotation but it seems like an odd name for this young Detroit combo. At the time of recording, the band included one Jackson Smith. You’ll be familiar with his old fella, one Frederick Sonic Smith? Anyway, Savage Beat in Australia has seen fit to to release this 8 song beastie. That continent has long enjoyed a spiritual and sonic bond with the Motor City. “The Time is Now”, not to be confused with the Moloko hit, would suggest that young J has inherited his dad’s guitarslinging gene. He doesn’t just have the style, he’s adapted it to fit the confines of a 21st Century barrage. There’s a run through of “City Slang” just to reinforce the connection with the ol’ Motor City. B.I.S have a Stonesy feel welded onto a solid chassis and they’re also not afraid to let their Ace Frehley flag fly and you gotta applaud that. There won’t be many an NBT visior that doesn’t flash a big grin across their coupon when they whap this in the tray. It’ll be interesting to see what happens now that Jackson has flown the coop. The powerstance nature of the cover art suggests they’ll take it in their stride.

Finally getting around to putting mitt to keyboard with regard to some recent(ish) releases so here goes...


"Breakin’ It Down" by The Midnight Evils from Minneapolis is on Estrus. They had sonic blacksmith, Tim Kerr nail the horseshoes to their frantic, hopped up fracas. Timeless high octane shit-kicking and punching, simple framework, solid deliverin’ rockin’ which will delight fans of The Lazy Cowgirls, Nine Pound Hammer and any of that which fits between those two (bar)stools. “Party, Party, Party” is nothing but a blatant steal of “Someone’s Gonna Get Their Head Kicked In (Tonight)”. Bravo.


DMBQ’s "The Essential Sounds From The Far East" comes on like Hendrix with jumper cables connected to his entire Experience. There’s a relentless rawk haul going on here that would probably scare the bejeezus out of your conventional metal fan. This Dynamite Masters Blues Quartet deliver a heavy, heavy monster sound. Even at a medium volume, this sucker feels loud. “Mo-Ya, Mo-Ya” sounds like Sabbath only way more visceral. There was an earthquake in Tokyo today, did anybody think to check if these guys were playing last night?


The Meows “At the Top of the Bottom” on No Tomorrow is a soul-kissed rockin’ sensation outta Barcelona and comprising 5 guys that are well versed in what it takes to cut some rug. The most obvious reference could be The Real Kids but there’s an additional dimension to their shindiggin’. If this combo is half as good live as this album suggests then there a lot of bands in a whole heap of trouble. There’s a nice Fleshtonian edge to it too, that super rock swathe that’s not easy to pull off. They’re packing an understated muscle, considering there are 11 original songs here plus covers of Ike Turner’s “This Man’s Crazy” and Sly Stone’s “Don’t Burn Baby” (complete with a raj wee “Pretty Vacant” moment on the close. The Meows are dishing up some incendiary dance music here. It’s a long way down from the dizzy heights this baby’ll take you to.


"Sonic Seducers" by The Intercontinental Playboys is a farfisa-charged palette of Garage flavours with a mix/match ratio that could only be mustered in Australia. There are all kinds of familiar nooks and crannies in their instinctive flair for reinventing that age old recipe. It’s a fun ride. The almost vaudeville aspect of their performance suggests a level of showmanship which could really set these songs off. With the right lighting and the requisite throb, the kids could have their heads turned by something as crafted as this. Their strength is the ability to ham it up without resorting to outright pastiche.


Dollsquad are also from Australia and combine a 70’s powerpop wallop with a penchant for the sixties. Their "Retro Dolls From Hipsville" is somewhat reminiscent of our hallowed Boonaraaas without treading on those ladies Chuck Taylors’. These 4 songs offer respite to anyone with a shine toward the girl group genre in general. Dollsquad swing in a most agreeable fashion and this niftily art-directed CD-EP sets the stage for a full length release, hopefully later in 2005. They should do a short 10” vinyl run of this in the meantime to stoke the fire. Enquire about the Dollsquad action figures while yer at it.


The Diplomats Of Solid Sound are “Ambassadors of Instrumental Soul”.Their “Destination…Get Down” on Estrus is a cool breeze. This Iowa City dwelling, Hammond fuelled delight provide an understated groove that will blow over you like some fine air conditioning. With elements of Booker T and Jimmy McGriff, the Diplomats drag those barbeque jams into fresh territory, blurring the join between when this music was new and making it now. “Loaf and Jug” is not a shopping list, or a London pub but a brand new dance that’s breaking out everywhere these guys play.

Those folks at LONESOME HIGHWAY in Edinburgh have an extensive schedule mapped out until the close of '05 including Ms Laura Cantrell in September and those Hacienda Brothers in October. If you're in and around these parts then get the heck on down. Y'think they organise these shindigs for the heck of it?

Uh oh, I guess THE STEPBROTHERS shows in Spain are over, this coming week they're in Southern Ireland though, check local press for details...

July 28th - Galway - venue: Roisin Dubh

July 29th - Cork - venue: tbc

July 30th - Dublin - venue: Crawdaddy

Three centuries ago, I used to work in a record shop down the town centre here in Grangemouth. This was in times before these out of town megaplex hellholes were invented. Better times for sure. This morning, I spent more time down there than I have in forever because the BMX Bandits, as mentioned earlier, surrealistically appeared in the square like some kinda holographic installation. It made me think about those olden days, before some of the people in this version of the band were even born. What I was thinking was, who could ever have predicted this!? But anyway, it happened and I have witnesses. I even "captured" the songs as mp3's if anybody out there with broadband would like them e-mailed to their in-box. I think one is just over 3mb and the other 1.5mb.

As part of the broadcast, the band did two songs in the first segment and another in the second. Hearing "That Summer Feeling" lapping from the stage at 10.10am on a Saturday morning is something one could get used to, even without Dan Penn to sing his verse like he did on the 45. Incidentally, Sanctuary have just issued SERIOUS DRUGS, a "best of" collection that includes their stellar rendition of that sublime J. Richman chestnut and a host of other songs from their Creation period. Anyway, their latest recruit Rachel MacKenzie adds an extra dimesion to their winsome pop. She'll appear on the soon to come (hopefully) new Duglas T solo outing.



The band is in great form and ripe for discovery by a whole new generation so let's keep our fingers crossed for that. It was all over by 1pm and it may have seemed like a dream or hallucination there are even photos to prove that this really did go down. I wonder if Duglas is in line for a cake voucher with regard to the plugs he gave Greggs on air? Must be worth a couple of "steak bakes" at least.

Dunno if you've come across this James Blunt guy that's storming the UK charts. Good for you if you haven't. He's like a creepy cross-pollenation of Chris De Burgh and David Gray and almost makes Dido seem like Tina Turner. Well, to these ears, for this particularly insidious strain of terrorism, the closing theme from The Incredible Hulk TV show has been copped to sculpt what must be the most horrendous, sickly #1 single in a long time.

Hearing the opening coming from the other room, I thinks to myself - is the TV on? but no, this guy starts to squeal and I'm filled with horror. And so early in the day too. A shock like this could drive someone less balanced into doing something drastic. The whole fabricated "industry" which seems to surround him gives me the heebs and it almost makes a guy want to hear a Keane song. Steady, I qualify that with an "almost" now...

Anyway, there's a bizarre situation going down in Grungemooth town centre this am and I'm aff (a variation on off) to investigate. There could even be some pictures later today. Take that as a threat brought upon by the aforementioned trauma if you're so inclined.

RIP - Long John Baldry

also Michael "Mick" Smith.

Like the great bard says... "Everybody's dying, what's going on?".

Mama Kangaroos is the latest project to come out on Mike Villers Genus imprint out of Philadelphia. A hefty labour of love with perhaps a touch of obsession, you may recall the Jim Carroll tribute ("Put Your Tongue to the Rail: The Philly Comp for Catholic Children") that the label previously put together. This one is subtitled “Philly Women sing Captain Beefheart”, MK offers a gamut of female interpretations from the songbook of Uncle Don with solid results. They might not all hit your particular spot but then you wouldn’t expect them to.

The opening cut, “Where There’s Woman” by Sweetie starts off fine but went all trip hoppy on me but the clatter is over soon enough. “The Past Sure Is Tense” by Winterbrief drags things back on track and even just two songs in, it’s obvious that a broad church such as this wasn’t gonna be instant. Repeated plays uncover new aspects as does the mood you’re in while you’re trying to digest it. Some attention is required, it doesn’t really play out as wallpaper.

I can’t claim to be an expert in Beefheart but I do recognise that these readings perhaps inhabit a more conventional universe than the original versions. It’d be interesting to hear if this Captfest inspires anyone who hasn’t already heard these songs to go back to the source. There is a reverence and a bounce to the sequence that might make no sense at all on “shuffle” but I think this is programmed like an album running order. Curated even. My consistent favourites go something like this. “My Head Is My Only House Unless It Rains” is given a Countrypolitan flavour by Nancy Falkow. I should mention right now that’d I’d heard of exactly nobody on this comp except for Amber DeLaurentis who plays on what for me is the standout, Janet Bressler’s “I’m Glad”. A transcendant slice of Philly Soul. Pure and simple. “When I See Mommy” by Tintinabulus sounds like a crash course in MX-80iness while Thorazine’s “Frying Pan” is a shouty, rooti’, tootin’ rabble flummoxer.

So then, to sum up, Mama isn’t your average tribute-ary. Given due care and attention there are dividends to be found in these 20 tracks. Some may confound, some may drive you “aff your heid” but I doubt if you’ll be bored. The proof of the pudding and all that…

Out there in Slovenia, the action shows no signs of abating. Tim Kerr has been out there working his magic on various projects which includes the next CRAZED FARMERS instalment. However, that's down the road apiece, for now check out THUNDERBABIES. A three piece with a swell line in '77 Lower East Side swing to their raunch. Brane Thunderbaby reckons that his combo provides "real raw and fresh r'n'r music" and he's not wrong. Sending a solid, simple cattleprod-like jag up the arse of what tries to pass itself off as the real deal on this end. These T'babies beat their material until it's a thick paste that's pretty bruising but in a good way. "Don't Try To Shut Me Down" sounds like a Nomads title strapped onto a garage AC/DC lollup. Yep, these three kids kick up quite the racket.



HIC ET NUNC are a tad more sophisticated bordering on contemporary. Their (fifth!?) album, "Burn Fat Old Sun" is produced by Bambi's collaborator and Walkabout, Chris Eckman. Theirs is a soulful maelstrom that burns (no pun or owt else intended) with a sinewy brightness constructed from many shards of popular music history. It's a Died Pretty-ish intensity that burns to bond the tracks. This stuff could really travel. A record like this could start the bush telegraph buzzing with "Llubljana is the new Seattle" type bollocks. The title track channels Joy Division through Radio Birdman to arrive at a destination that our airwaves could use right about now. "Innstant Self Knowledge" (it has two 'n's' on the jacket) is positively Roy Wood-like. BFOS is a really excellent album that deserves a wide audience.

Frank Macdonald just contacted me with the bad news that the great John Herald died.

Update at 6.54am 21/7 : It was confirmed by John's agent, Sarah. No more details at present but when any news comes in I'll let you know. I had the pleasure of meeting John and seeing him play during his many trips to Scotland. He made a record with The Radio Sweethearts called "Roll on John" which was released on Spit and Polish. One of the original folk troubadors, his work with The Greenbriar Boys is exemplary and he deserved much more than the cards life dealt him.

ROTTERDAM RUMBLE... The Coyotemen and a shedload of other garage grapplers this coming September at The Waterfront in, where else, Rotterdam.

The "TOP 12 HOTTEST FEMALE GUITARISTS EVER"!

Well I'll be (insert expression of choice here)... ("fucked with the ragman's coronet" was always my favourite but what can I tell ya? Scotland is a wonderful country. Where else would you expect to hear that the word "fail" is to be replaced, when dealing with kids' exams with "deferred success". Just lately I've been excelling in "deffered success" or, er... failure.

I'm working to clear that long promised backlog but am also trapped in the mire of reality and all the crap that trails into the hall. You all know how that is, right?

So anyway, there's e-mail to answer and discs to spin. There's Film Festival tickets to sort out too, See, the distractions are creeping in already...

A message from Ms Cantrell...

"Hey folks,

I am very disappointed about the sudden cancellation of Lucinda Williams' U.K. tour on which I was to be her support act. I am so sorry we won't be seeing you in London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Newcastle.

However, I did want to let you know that I will be appearing on my own dates in Birmingham and York as scheduled, and may even be adding a last minute show in Glasgow next week (please watch my website for updates). Also, for those of you with tickets to the Cambridge Folk Festival, I've been added to the lineup for Saturday, July 30.

In addition, I will be appearing on the "Loose Ends" programme with Ned Sherrin on BBC Radio 4 this Saturday, as well as upcoming sessions on the " Andy Kershaw Show" for Radio 3, "OneMusic" with Rob da Bank for Radio 1, and "The Gideon Coe Show" for 6Music.

I'll be back in the U.K. in September for more shows that will be announced shortly, so again check the website as confirmed tour dates are added. There are also some new photos and free downloads, as well as a very special NYC subway map that plays all of the songs on my new album, "Humming By The Flowered Vine."

Thanks again for your support and understanding,

Laura Cantrell
Jackson heights, NY

July 24 - The Glee Club, The Arcadian Centre, Hurst Street, Birmingham, England. Tel: 0870 2415093

July 25 - The National Centre for Early Music, St. Margaret's Church, Walmgate, York, England. Tel: 01904 658338

July 30 - Cambridge Folk Festival, Cherry Hinton Hall Grounds Cambridge, England"

RIP - James Doohan, boldly gone, aged 85.

Just noted this at our eXTReMe Tracking site; beautiful girls, beautiful Asian girl, and me. I would love to tell you I was such fine company, but alas...

Handy dandy eBay feedback generator.

Reigning Sound news : a new CD Live At Maxwell's will be out soon on Telstar, with Spoonful managing the Lp. Fourteen tracks, originals and covers, and liners notes by Miriam Linna. Also (as previously announced) a 10" and CD, Home for Orphans (the scrapped second album) on Sympathy.

Acetate records is set to release a demo album by NINE POUND HAMMER; "Mulebite Deluxe", recorded in 1990 (with three new tracks, two originals and a cover for good measure), while Get Hip will be issuin' a 45 of NPH's version of "Train Kept A Rollin', Part 1 and 2".

Locals will be happy to learn that Utrecht now has it's own Elvis shop.

That's their forte....

THIS COMING WEEKEND IN NYC...

Cool picture overview of the recent Primitive fest in Rotterdam at YadaYadaOink.com. (link c/o Sander Bink)
And even more...

Dear Cats and/or Kittens,

Can't knock the rock? Then give in for a triple helping of rock and/or roll, SIT & Die Co. style!

THURSDAY, JULY 21st / OTTO'S SHRUNKEN HEAD / 8:00 - 12:00

It's another spectacular monthly revue of music, mirth and canned ham -- and special featured guests: uptown's Heather Allison, down South's Rosalyn Morris and the gypsy that's everywhere, Baby Maria. DJ Fabio Roberti will provide the atmosphere and we'll provide the snack bowls, all in the air-conditioned elegance of Otto's, located at 538 East 14th Street (just west of Avenue B) in Manhattan's East Village. Two complete shows, at 8:00 and 10:00 sharp. Free! / www.OttosShrunkenHead.com /

FRIDAY, JULY 22nd / FREDDY'S BACKROOM / 9:00 - 9:45

The 2nd Annual Brooklyn Country Music Festival returns to the old-timey setting of Freddy's in Park Slope, Brooklyn, found at 485 Dean Street. No cover -- and free frankfurters! / www.BrooklynCountryMusic.com /

SATURDAY, JULY 23rd / RODEO BAR / 10:30 - 1:30

We're back at the Rodeo Bar, home of Tex-Mex grub, cold beer and peanuts in the shell, located at 375 Third Avenue (at 27th Street) in Kips Bay, Manhattan. We'll play three sets(!), from 10:30 on, and the music, like the peanuts in the shell, is free. / www.RodeoBar.com /

Why, it's three times the rock!

Sincerely,
Michael Susquehanna Industrial Tool & Die Co "Ballads, Boogies & Blues"

And now to a few random things that'll keep you occupied while I have the rest of the day away from the screen here. Give the old peepers a break, catch up on some of the music and stuff that's lying around. Might even look into the possibility of catching DIG! , if it's still playing at any of the cinemas around here. I'm not holding my breath. So this next segment comes courtesy of a man who knows how to mix it up (Thanks Marty)...

LONG GONE JOHN interview. Then visit Sympathy to check out the latest releases.

BUBBLEGUM MACHINE (does pretty much what it sez on the glass).

The men don't know but the little GHOULS understand.

As the great one said, "and awaaaaaaay we go!" So get going.

Sure I take requests; playlists, top 10s, whatever. You tell me...
Here goes:

Sods - Minutes To Go (1979, Step Forward LP).
Pulled this one from the shelves earlier today, fantastic p-rock from Denmark. The William Burroughs reference and Suicide cover make it clear these kids were in the know.

Various - Studio One Lovers (2005, Soul Jazz 2LP).
Fab collection of early reggae and rocksteady tunes. The Sharks' How Could I Live is easily worth the price of admission by itself. But dig the Mad Lads' Ten To One and the Wailers' ultra rare I'm Still Waiting as well. Beautiful vocal harmonies, and more proof that the Impressions were bigger than the Beatles in Jamaica..

Dictators - Viva Dictators (2005, Escapi CD).
As much as I obviously enjoy this one, it would have been so much better if there was at least one new tune aboard and they'd left in HDM's between song rants. Each song here is a classic of mythical proportions, sure, but Manitoba's anouncements are such an intregal part of the 'tators'live experience. If you wanna save rock 'n' roll, you gotta serve the entire ensalada, not just parts of it.

New York Dolls recording new album.

Lookin' PRETTY good... (thanks Martin!)

OLD FARTS AT PLAY: TELEVISION LIVE IN UTRECHT 15/07/2005.
It's close to three decades since Tom Verlaine graced the cover of the very first issue of NBT. But even so many years down the line, Television proved they can still present a clear, transparent image/sound that is remarkably free of outside or current influences. Recent material sounded fine enough, but hey, gimme Marquee Moon any day. I can sorta understand that new songs probably give some kinda validation to the band, but it's the strength of the original material that still pulls in the crowds. And really, there's nothing wrong with that, as long as it's done with the kind of dignity as displayed tonight. See no Evil, Venus, Friction, Marquee Moon and Prove It (tho'sadly no Little Johnny Jewel) were all performed in fine style with the amazing guitar interplay between Richard Lloyd and Verlaine as good as it ever was. This reuion biz can be rather tricky at times, but this TV set was built to last and will never need fancy extras to make an impact...

HIGHTONE have just released 4 albums that were recorded at The Studio in Springfield, Missouri by the great Lou Whitney. The Show Me state is still raising the bar when it comes to pumping out simple, life-affirming, rockin’ country blues and beyond.

The Morells – Think About It



What can I tell ya about The Morells? They should be a staple of each and every NBT visitors sonic diet. They’ve made three albums in 20+ years because they believe in quality not quantity. The Reverend Joe of Terry isn’t involved this time but Dudley Brown is a fine replacement. THINK ABOUT IT! is an 11 song masterpiece enveloping the vast spectrum that these guys curate into THE roots rock sound to beat all others.

Kicking off with a unique sinewy, slip, sliding romp complete with kazoo solo through Chuck Berry’s "Nadine", it’s a great feeling just to know that they’re active. Other cool covers here are Paul Revere and The Raiders “Ups and Downs” and The Delmore Brothers “Girls Don’t Worry My Mind”. Rubbing shoulders with equally groovy originals like Donnie’s “She’s Gone” (“and now my heart’s just a pile of masticated protein” indeed and “Cool Summer” which tips a keyboard nod toward Bananarama’s "Cruel Summer"). Rongo and Lou keep it all swingin’ as only they can.

All in all, forget what you’ve been told is the sound of this summer. This’ll see you through that and provide natural daylight all that remains of this annum and far beyond. I hope they can make it over this way because right now, I can’t afford to go to them. I would if I could. It’s 15 years since I made my pilgrimage to Springfield and methinks it’s time to be planning another.



Brian Capps – Walk Through Walls

Brian Capps used to be in The Domino Kings but these days he plays out with The True Liars. The TL’s include Skele-fellas past and present including Sir Bobby Lloyd Hicks and The Rt. Hon. Kelly Brown. Capps has made an album that sounds like Dave Edmunds recording in Bakersfield.

A rollocking, gospel tinged pot of primo rockin’ country that I do believe might make inroads to taking that Springfied sound a little further afield. The album contains mostly Capps originals but also includes a couple of merle Travis covers and a version of Rodney Crowell’s “Standing On A Rock”. The title track includes one of those patented heart-shredding Donnie Thompson solos. This is perhaps more mainstream than The Morells, but whatever trajectory it takes to put this ensemble on the map is something I’m down with.



The Bel Airs – Got Love

These guys are a kinda stripped down Midwest spawned Blasters that consists of David and Dick Pruitt along with onetime Paladin Mike Cherry. The sound is fleshed out with the spooner Oldham type keyboard stylings of the aforementioned Rev. Joe of Terry. Anything that this guy is involved with comes five star certified by me.
It’s a simple but effective strut down the bluesier, bruisier strip of that bar room hardy annual sound. American music – undiluted and undisputed.



The Domino Kings – Some Kind of Sign

Fellow ex-Slewfooters with The Morells, The DK’s sound a little like The Mavericks channelling Bobby Fuller on the title track. No bad thing in my book. Indeed these guys could appeal directly to the vast legion of fans that Raul Malo’s crew have built up over the years.

This is a pretty simple but effective style of country rock which probably stand the best chance of infiltrating the airwaves. Familiar enough to set the foot tapping but not to breed contempt. Not a bad strategy. Standouts are “Dark Side of The Moon”(don’t worry, it’s not a PF cover) and the title song. “Lying Next To Me” is like a great lost Del Lords song. What the hell could be bad about that.

The recording capital of Greene County is still churning them out, hoping that the world might catch up one day. It’s not about to be the new “Seattle” or anything like that but there’s a confidence in that community that will continue to buzz unabated while continually vapid trends come and go.

Update at 3.49pm: Some Big Noise from Springfield tour info! (Thanks Steve...)

BOONARAAA action over the next three weekends, starting today!

July 16 Bingen - Binger Open Air / Germany + Superpunk

July 23 Bensheim - Open Air / Germany

July 30 Oberhausen - Druckluft - Garage Craze / Germany + The Satelliters

Shoeshine's Evening of Glorious Music will take place on SUNDAY 7th August (NOT FRIDAY), King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow, 8.30pm, £6...

The Beauty Shop - dark acoustic country noir rock with a twinkle in its eye, all the way from Illinois.

Eugene Kelly (solo acoustic) - what can you say about Mr. Vaseline that hasn't been said before?

The Hermit Crabs - charming, tuneful indie pop.

Camera Obscura DJ sets.

Should be fun fun fun..........