defiance

another second world war film on the big screen
this one has daniel craig on loan from james bond duties
it's also based on a book of a true story set in belarus
the film opens with what appears to be archival footage
some grainy black and white heart-wrenching scenes
jewish families being torn apart by the invading nazis
and then a smooth transition to panavision colour
2 brothers discovering the horror that has visited
all in their village massacred - including their parents
they head for the hills to avoid certain death themselves
apart from the nazis the local police are now anti-semitic
there's a bounty on offer for any jews that are reported
and so the scene is set for this sad but true story of survival
as the word spreads more jews turn to them for protection
in turn the brothers enlist the help of a russian resistance group
one brother zus (liev schreiber) wants to fight the germans
meanwhile tuvia (daniel craig) believes survival is paramount
and so the film neatly divides into 2 stories of the brothers
they angrily go their separate ways with tuvia now in charge
most of the film is spent with him and his burgeoning followers
digging in for the harsh winter of 1941 with little food and shelter
tempers flaring at times as hunger and sickness dominates
some pre-viewing reading had warned me to be prepared
various critics complaining about heavy-handed direction
lack of subtlety and hammering home of points mostly
which meant i was probably looking more than usual for fault
but all i found was a bit of unconvincing ensemble acting at times
scenes with a lot of the refugees involved mostly too rehearsed
bringing to mind on several occasions a feeling of live theatre
also at times the serious music score just too over-played
otherwise i was very moved by the story and the acting
daniel craig totally convincing in his role as king of the jews
biblical references not out of place in this desperate situation
but tuvia is not perfect - at times his actions quite confronting
leading me to thinking how would i react in his situation
no answer there - too much to contemplate really
after nearly 2 hours the film builds to a climactic finale
some very realistic war scenes as the germans track them down
tank shells and grenades exploding across the theatre's sound system
and it's brother zus to the rescue and another retreat into the woods
where they hid out for another 2 years while the war continued
as the credits rolled some photos of the brothers are shown
with a few more facts about their post-war lives
an astounding story of courage really
and done so well in this fine film

trio apoplectic (live)

casting the memory back to a friday night only 2 weeks ago
in this case being the random access memory found in the digital camera
take it to the show - take a few shots in rapid succession during 1 tune
then run the battery down in movie mode - who knows - it may be good
on this particular night trio apoplectic were in superb form
celebrating the release of their second album titled sofia
2 sets of music that had at least this fan spellbound
not alone though - a captivated audience throughout
full respect and attention as the tunes were played
loud and enthusiastic applause as they concluded
a very memorable night of music and a new cd in hand
a few quite ok photos taken of this young band at work
my musical intuition telling me they are the real deal
not following, leading, competing, honouring, needing
just pure music played with a sense of total freedom
total respect for the art itself and willing to explore
this coming through loud and clear in the new album
a collection of tunes sounding just so fresh
osmosis working as the album is repeat played
my feeling - with total prejudice of course
they will go as far and as wide as they desire
but - huh - lucky me - their first youtube clip
this one will appear in some future documentary
evidence of the band in their formative early years
left to right dave jackson able cross alex masso
trio apoplectic - see 'em while you can i say

constant in opal

ok - more of the church - best band in the world part 4
my own humble opinion of course but not alone at all there
5 star reviews rolling in consistently for their latest and greatest
so the stars have finally aligned to give this band deserved plaudits
if it wasn't for barack obama you'd hardly believe it was possible
but his election shows to go that good things can still happen
that despite all the bullshit, resentment and apathy
there's still the hope that mediocrity can be overcome
i've been hanging on to this band through thuck and thin
first encountered them way back in 1982 - ancient history
loved them from the first note of the first tune of their second album
an affinity to their sound, attitude, originality and consistency
that being an inate ability to connect to another dimension
they standing between us and a realm we can only dream of
a connection to another place beyond our mundane lives
music being that which provides the means to escape
the church holding that door open and waving us through
constant in opal - typical kilbey-esque word-playing
this tune from an ep released way back in 1984
did they know back then it would take 25 years
doubt it - but shrug - it not matter at all
for me they have provided inspiration
what is that popular expression again?
integrity, integrity, integrity
thanks chasps - love your work

live in london

the title of a new leonard cohen dvd
recorded mid 2008 before his recent tour
but presumably the same band and material
this live concert at the humongous o2 arena
most famously used last year by zed leppelin
now i must confess i am not a hard core fan
only lately getting into him with dear heather
a very good album released a few years back
his recent concerts receiving universal praise
tonight it was decided to watch a music dvd
current hosts well set up home theatrically
so an easy decision to indulge in this concert
the action opening with the man coming on stage
a huge ovation from a huge crowd at this huge venue
leading to some concern about how this is going to work
his material as far away from stadium rock as you can get
but cleverly the director has a means to nullify that
keep it close - very close - the close-ups reign
so we get to see every line on his craggy face
which also means we can monitor the sincerity
and there's plenty of that coming from him
every note of every tune sung emotionally
and clearly too - the lyrics easy to decipher
the sheer poetry of his songs there for the taking
so for me as a late convert this is working very well
and then there is the band - perfect for the material
the hammond organ the standout instrument aurally
the chap on guitars and laud also of the highest quality
but the master-stroke is cohen's choice of backing singers
sharon robinson particularly held in high esteem by the man
similarly the gorgeous webb sisters just right on the night
lots of eye contact from the man as he looks on lovingly
graciously acknowledging all of those on stage with him
and in turn giving thanks to the large and excited crowd
the tunes - 25 of them in all including all the big ones
so long marianne, suzanne, hallelujah, tower of song
the banter between songs both humorous and telling
it’s been a long time since i’ve stood on a stage in london
it was about 14 or 15 years ago - i was 60 years old
....just a kid with a crazy dream
even at 2 hours the dvd is shorter than the show itself
but it is entirely captivating - total class throughout
and well suited to a large screen and speakers
a very pleasant saturday night in the country

chase the sun

literally actually - heading west as the sun sinks
an invitation to see this band playing way out west
the offer including ticket, food and accommodation
too good to pass up really so the journey is made
they're performing in a large community hall
a masonic lodge converted for live performance
the promoter and friend has done a good job
the locals out and in force and a near full house
first on the bill a singer-songwriter named cass eager
she in possession of a fine and strong blues voice
stunning guitar skills particularly on lap-slide
a very natural attitude and sassiness to match
next up is a chap in the new one man band mode
live looping - play a riff, tap a beat, record it
play it back repeatedly and repeat the process
so that a band sound can be created by one person
last seen at womad with maori lady mihirangi
tonight claude hay mixes in an electric sitar
an impressive blues-world-rock performance
chase the sun have a big reputation to live up to
they are billed as australia's best blues band
their opening tune a stunning acoustic guitar solo
a seated jan rynsaardt referencing some obvious heroes
robert johnson and eric clapton quickly coming to mind
with bassist and drummer then on stage it's no holds barred
this 3 piece producing a big, loud, clean blues-rock sound
various guitars swapped in and out to provide the variety
jan rynsaardt as lead vocalist meaning he's the man
solidly supported by ryan van gennip on bass
jon 'howler' howell tub-thumping with style
it's an impressive sound they crank out
70's rock blues guitar fresh energetic stuff
in a way nothing too original but still compelling
the mosh pit and the seated audience all enthusiastic
me - thinking i like it but once is probably enough
but then they play their trump card superbly
cass eager back on stage as lead vocalist
a female robert plant as they play rock 'n' roll
she looking the part with this tune in all its glory
lifting the band to a total new dimension
it's a cliche but born to be on stage she is
voice, looks, attitude, and now an amazing band
i don't recall ever seeing such a transformation
with her up front chase the sun can go anywhere
record company exec's will be tripping over tongues
stand aside wolfmother - here's the real deal
it shall be interesting to see how far they go
after gig discussions confirming my thinking
nice bunch of people too - very gracious
they deserve whatever success they enjoy
chase the sun - great name, great band

samson and delilah

the 5 star reviews are rolling in for this film
some saying every australian should go and see it
which was never said of the other australia film
it reached for epic-ness but was saved by simplicity
from what i read the aboriginal boy was the real star
in this film it's another aboriginal boy at the centre
the film opens with him rousing from his sleep
and oddly some american country music is playing
he struggles with his clothing and then takes his fix
his nose buried in a plastic container of petrol
stumbles outside picks up a guitar and thrashes away
jamming away with the drummer and bass-player
significantly he's wearing a birthday party t-shirt
so already we know music is a big part of his life
but this is big brothers guitar and mates in the band
so samson's turn on the guitar is aggressively cut short
over on the other side of town delilah is with her nana
she elderly, sickly and an accomplished indigenous artist
they sit quietly doing their dot-paintings together
delilah cooking, administering drugs and walking her nana
it's a very simple and quiet life everyone is leading
it's like groundhog day as the film goes through a few days
leading eventually to samson and delilah meeting up
some genuinely funny scenes featuring nana's comments
also some genuinely sad scenes as they are run out of town
alice springs is where they end up living under a bridge
he is still petrol-sniffing, she is still providing
so far there's not been a word spoken between them
which i put down to the atmospherics of the film
an intention to let their environment tell the story
the harshness of which is also shown with no punches pulled
delilah falls victim to some brutal and then accidental assault
sadly samson is so out of it he is oblivious to her plight
the weight of their situation fully on her young shoulders
apart from her own assault she witnesses a major scam
sees her nana's artwork being sold for astronomical prices
stirring an anger in her that transforms her personality
and a clear change in her attitude towards the townies
it's a sad and desperate situation the 2 friends are in
eventually however the authorities step in and assist
seeing the 2 relocate to delilah's isolated family shack
it smacks of happily-ever-after but it's not going to be
though there's a temporary reprieve in their hard lives
at which point we the audience can also take a breath
this film is so genuinely touching and presumably realistic
i know very little about the indigenous way of modern life
but everything seen in this film seems quite representative
showing the basic conditions in which aborigines are living
the effect of alcohol and petrol-sniffing on old and young
the entrenched violence within and visiting their communities
and yet the film is not preaching, begging or accusing
it simply shows it as it really is from the inside
which of course is why everyone should see it
apparently it's gathering momentum overseas
australia's answer to slumdog millionaire?
though this one stays very close to it's core
more like australia's answer to hollywood's australia
and yes - definitely worth the 5 star treatment

gerard masters trio

tonight was meant to be a trip on ze train
into the night to the current place of domicile
but oops connecting services letting me down
and so a 45 minute wait at central station - pass
wander up the road to the surry hills best indian
but oops an ammonia soaked floor too much to bear
a desperate owner literally chasing me for my business
the familiar next door foyer some respite from him
so music beats food - press the buzzer for admittance
into the graffitti infested foyer - into the lift and up we go
pay the $10 down and wander in as carl dewhurst winds up
but the place is packed - this place is definitely tres fashionable
it's dark, dank, and tippy-toey through the floor-dwelling throngs
but wait - spot the gap - a space on one of the few lounges here
'scuse me - do you mind if i sit down here - sure mate - go for it
at times like this i do appreciate the concept of twist-tops
scrounge a plastic cup and pour forth el cheapo red wine
survey the scene and plan an escape real soon now
between me and the band is a solid concrete column
totally blocking out one third of the trio now performing
but there's a direct view of main man gerard masters on piano
over on the right is evan mannell in charge of drums and percussion
behind the column is our host and bass-player cameron undy
me - convinced myself i have that gerard masters can't cut it
this based on one experience of a less than convincing show
an outfit at the time to me over-confident and under-rehearsed
so - sniff - i'm only here through a combination of circumstances
and sure enough the opening tunes not compelling in any way
the crowd showing indifference with many conversations also under way
try as i might i just can't invoke the required evil stares to shut 'em up
so yep i'm thinking the rarely used eject button may be required
after all - it's monday night - a train is waiting - should move on
but - but - but - gerard masters it seems has an intent to inform
and a mutual disdain for those that insist in blah, blah, blah
his barbed comments appropriate but most likely lost on 'em
so ok - i'm now with him and willing him on despite the crowd
the opening few tunes not doing much to win me over
no doubt about his keyboard skills and confidence
gentle is not his style - bang out those tunes
the rhythm department trying to keep up
yes - i'm certain it's good but it lacks something
soul i think - they are reaching but not grasping
i'm checking the time as gerard masters talks again
this time informing us of his admiration of swedish outfit est
the esbjorn svensson trio - the main man drowning 12 months ago
gerard masters has written a piece dedicated to them titled est
now we're talking - and what a musical transformation
this trio nails the sound of est respectfully and precisely
the fan in me very happy to hear that sound live
the band themselves now in a comfortable groove
and playing a few more tunes in a similar style
me - content - crowd - hushed - band - happy
the end of the set coming 15 minutes before train time
a dash for the door with a thanks to the man on the way out
onto the train into the night and well satisfied
funny how that invisible force works sometimes
nudging you in the right direction to the right place
me - totally enjoying that ride at the moment

simpatico

now it's getting serious - 2 of the stars of the local scene
paul cutlan on bass clarinet and andrew robson on tenor sax
this combo plays infrequently - both busy with other projects
my feeling is that the preference is to keep it short and sharp
one set only - played hard and fast and see you again sometime
a concise and precise introduction from andrew and into it
a promise of total improvisation throughout their performance
a sincere wish that we enjoy it as much as they are going to
these 2 have obviously found something sitting above skills
brilliant exponents of the combination of talent and freedom
in the opening tune they are both hard at it and letting rip
each musician well synced with the other without eye contact
rapid-fire playing with complementing sounds from both players
this is not gentle, smooth or nice - it's aggressive and demanding
requiring serious energy and commitment to sustain the sound
and it works - the bass clarinet perfectly suited to the alto sax
lower and upper register notes harmonising for a full sound
the pace of the tune changing in an instant and in unison
for me it's another riveting improvisation experience
that's me with my jaw dropped and eyes fixed
pinned to my comfy seat only a few metres away
the first tune winds up accurately with no obvious sign
2 musicians well happy with that effort and loud applause
a change of instrument for paul cutlan onto a standard clarinet
and with that a slower number but no less engaging
andrew using his alto to provide a looped bass effect
allowing paul to wander all over the place on the clarinet
and speaking of which - pet hate time once again
we had been warned that the performance would be filmed
fair enough - a great opportunity to record a moment in time
but grrrrr - these 2 cameramen went over the top
cameras up close, from below, from behind
and worst of all - standing right in front of me
total disregard for the audience and all about them
incensed i was - thankfully it was an exceptional performance
tempted to have a go at them but presumably they had permission
and a realisation that this set would find it's way to a video
shall be looking out for that - and all will be forgiven
live at the grove - has a nice ring to it actually
another satisfying sunday night of music

roman pulati band

back to the bohemian grove to lend support to this venue
a sunday-night-only operation trying to help musicians
run by a musician wanting to provide space for his peers
the word is not out yet so there's never a problem with seating
pick a lounge, a futon, a mik crate and cushion - or stand
then take in some fine music over a couple of sets
tonight 2 different acts are playing one set each
first up - the newly formed roman pulati band
he's the fellow in the centre on electric guitar
apparently he has played extensively overseas
including serious guitar schooling in the u s of a
this 5 piece band a nice balance of guitar/brass/drums
so the credentials are impressive enough - should be good
nope - not really - all kind of dull actually - too nice
maybe west coast jazz is all floaty, cruisey and safe
but down here it's not going to be taken seriously
there's way too much gutsy original stuff happening
mein host for example - he from wunderband trio apoplectic
an unbelievable performance from them 2 nights ago
tonight he's sitting next to me willing on his guests
he and i also wanting this to be a great performance
but it just doesn't get there - though they do try
some interesting brass arrangements in the mix
electric bass player and drummer both efficient
roman pulati himself obviously a talented guitarist
but this venue still has fresh memories of local heroes
carl dewhurst and james muller both having visited recently
tonight's performance not in the same league to these ears
and please mr pulati - talk to us - tell us something
a bit of history - a new beginning maybe - some inspirations
eventually the pregnant pauses between tunes got to him also
and a half-hearted attempt was made to provide some banter
but for me the damage had been done - boredom was in the house
a bit harsh probably but nice jazz does not cut it for me
they're not written off yet - just need to get more edge
or maybe find an audience that enjoys this style
one of those jazz cruise things back over in amerika
or accompanying an accomplished jazz style singer
that would work - shift the focus - play the music
nice try - now - moving on - next set please

let the right one in

something called twilight is getting all the attention
a book/film about teenage vampires - or something
this film bearing no relation except in subject matter
sweden - snow - cold - bleak - eerie - subdued - weird
the opening titles setting the scene quite convincingly
no music, no sounds, small lettering on a dark background
a very scandinavian looking boy out of focus against a window
armed with a serious looking knife with clear intentions to use it
me - feeling challenged and comfortably not numb about this
oskar is the subject of the school bullies and decidedly alone
until eli mysteriously appears after moving in next door
she is in the company of an older man who has a role
he is her provider - sustenance - in the form of blood
an early murder scene which has me squirming
nothing too gratuitous seen but all clearly implied
there's something literally chilling about blood and snow
though he botches it and has to incur the wrath of eli
a physically 12-year old girl who has it all over him
but she identifies directly with oskar and his aloneness
similarly he sees in her the companion he craves for
the empathy between them becomes the core of the film
the failure of her provider means she has to strike out
leading to deaths and disappearances in the neighbourhood
eli's pale skin, dark hair, black eyes and bloody lips striking
her actions leading to despair and fear in the community
and an awakening in oskar about his friend's special skills
there are some amazing scenes showing eli the vampire
the bleakness of the snow-covered city a perfect setting
we see her scurrying up the sides of buildings and trees
launching herself onto victims and disappearing quickly
classic vampire stuff but cleverly we don't see her as evil
as the bodies become discovered things get more complicated
threatening to expose oskar and eli's secret relationship
one thing she has taught oskar is to stand up for himself
and so he takes matters into his own hands with the bullies
which in turn leads to a confrontation at the indoor pool
and then for me some scenes that are almost farcical
i'm sure it wasn't intentional but it was laugh-out-loud
eli comes to oskar's rescue with over-the-top results
and in the final scene it is clear oskar is now the provider
i walked out of the theatre a little bit disappointed
for nearly 2 hours i had been totally held by the film
only to be released in what seemed an odd way
though - coming out into the now cold and dark night
warily pounding the back streets of darlinghurst
and alarmed as a young lady ran past and close by
had me jumping out my skin - relax - it was just a film
but like any good film it stays with you for a while
you the living and now let the right one in
2 swedish films of very similar themes
isolation, loneliness, empathy - love actually
though not your average love story - thankfully

trio apoplectic

it's favourite band time at the sound lounge tonight
well there's a few of them but this one certainly counts
saw them do a set at the same venue about a year ago
sharing the bill with another trio of young local jazz upstarts
and making an impression on me that has had me on the lookout
i attended the wangaratta jazz festival last year to see them again
their attendance there convincing me of their unique sound
tonight it's the official launch of their second album titled sofia
a decent crowd in attendance and me in the best seat in the house
looking forward this time to a couple of sets of fine music
sure enough they start up and are immediately engaging
in a way it's a fairly conventional lineup - sax, bass, drums
but then they have other things to add - youth, talent, enthusiasm
dave jackson on alto can't help attracting the most attention
for it's his sweet, singing, melodic style that makes their sound
able cross on standup bass his musical brother and master player
he similarly as fluid and melodic as can be on his instrument
alex masso on drums and percussion sitting tight and close
no need for flashiness here - precision playing filling it out
his other duty to provide the banter between blocks of tunes
which to me is quite an essential yet underrated component
done with grace, humour and brevity adding to a performance
certainly the case tonight as alex informs us of the music
they now have 2 albums to draw on and a few standards
one of them being the gorgeous what reason could i give
an ornette coleman tune last heard covered by another outfit
then led by a trumpet but tonight it's at home with an alto
dave jackson appropriately providing the emotion in spades
working with his bandmates to provide a unified sound
the silence factor confirming that this show is special
at times in gentle pieces like this the room was hushed
to me indicating every person tuned into the performance
with loud and generous applause as each tune concludes
the new tunes sounding original and played confidently
sofia - back-announced - me thinking it was a standard
holly and bobby - horses - sax playing of the highest order
details of how to get APOPLECTIC on your licence plate
a tune from the first album that allows lots of space
an up-tempo all-in anything-goes free-form number
dave jackson pulling all manner of sounds from his sax
able cross using a bow to great effect on his bass
alex masso bashing, crashing, tapping, flourishing
a move away from melody but still playing as one
every single tune different from every other
no mean feat in 2 hours of music from a trio
it's always good to see a unit having fun
even more so to recognise mutual respect
and the ultimate to sense something special
heart palpitations in one moving tune for me
a totally impressive and engaging performance
music as fresh and pure as you could hope for
their musical journey only just beginning....

the baader-meinhof complex

i'd seen the trailer for this one and was curious
then david and margaret both gave it high praise
tonight is opening night - about 10 of us there
so maybe terrorism has been done to death (ahem)
the film opens with some historical footage
showing a visit by the shah of iran to germany
journalist ulrike meinhof writes a scathing article
denouncing the shah's failure as a leader in iran
citing poverty, ill-health and the treatment of women
his visit leads to protests in the streets of berlin
which is met with a brutal putdown of the protesters
the violent thuggery of the attackers quite jarring
and a wake-up call - the alarm bells start ringing
for me personally that this film is going to be full-on
and historically for many that a fascist state may re-emerge
so this sparks more protests and the birth of the red army faction
under the leadership of the charismatic andreas baader
there is a very strong anti-american sentiment in the film
the vietnam war and american imperialism often mentioned
and again some very disturbing historical footage
carpet-bombing, napalm, executions all shown
and thus setting us up to accept the raf's ideals
that violence can only be confronted with more violence
and so the raf under the leadership of baader and meinhof go for it
a string of bombings and executions over a number of years
the film depicting these events with chilling realism
it's quite a rough ride during this extended part of the film
accuracy retained as victims and buildings are clearly identified
with a fine line between re-enactment and archive footage
a lot of time in the film is spent with the perpetrators
but without denouncing them it is suggested they over-react
at the same time the police are seen showing restraint
the chief of police depicted as a man of intelligence
wanting to understand the terrorists motives throughout
so this film is not taking sides - it is telling a story
as more students become radicalised the violence also extends
particularly when the leaders of the raf are arrested
and in turn more violence is used to coerce their release
the raf now seen to be linked to middle eastern terrorists
resulting in the hi-jacking of the lufthansa flight
and the murder of israeli athletes at the munich olympics
the film spends time showing the raf leaders in prison
a realisation that their cause has gotten out of hand
but still a stubborn determination to defy authority
resulting in appearances in court turning farcical
as large numbers of supporters also interrupt the process
phew - there's a lot going on in this epic film
2 and a half hours of violence, arguments and action
though at no point did i lose the plot (so to speak)
the relentless depiction of violence is exhausting
but i did feel like i had been delivered a lesson
not only in historical facts of major events
but also on what drives people to terrorism
and in turn how authority can react to that
so it's also a very contemporary film
and one that could be seen again...gulp

the boy in striped pyjamas

the title sounding like an adaptation of a children's story
far from it of course in this film of a book of the same name
the central character is a boy dressed in striped prison garb
the prison being an unnamed concentration camp in germany
some time is spent at the beginning of the film setting it up
with a senior nazi officer packing his family off to his new job
they unaware of his new role as commandant of the camp
there's some long and wide shots of life in wartime berlin
children playing, soldiers marching, jews being herded
the family seen to be from the top end of germany society
with a lavish party being thrown prior to their departure
the commandant's parents are seen at the party
he the proud militaristic father, she challenging the war
this the first sign of cracks in their authoritarian lives
it takes a few minutes to get used to the very english accents
as there is no attempt to authenticate the language
which means this is another in a series of similar films
valkyrie and the reader particularly also english based
but again no point being picky - so best go with it
a change of focus as the family moves to the country
their sterile home close to the camp he commands
some chilling shots of smoke from the chimney stacks
and a gradual but discernible effect on the family
as the father takes on the role of the tough and loyal leader
initially mother supports her husband until the truth comes out
she is horrified by their situation and is deeply affected
their daughter at 12 embraces the ideals of hitler youth
while the son - bruno - an explorer - befriends a jew
it's a secret friendship with schmuel who is in the camp
they sit, talk and play with the camp fence between them
their innocent 8 year old conversations are very moving
as they both try and figure out the world they are in
the action moves between here and life in the house
as bruno watches his family change before his very eyes
for it is through those eyes that this world is seen
very clever directing means we are totally empathetic
and the pacing of the film is also superb - just right
as it builds to a quite an emotional and stunning climax
which sees the 2 boys fall victim to the fathers crimes
and some quite unforgettable scenes inside the camp
assisted by some very sombre yet appropriate music
me - i was pinned to my seat as the credits rolled
a day later and it's still stuck in my head
this one is a war film with a difference
and given the state of our world today
also very contemporary - a must-see

laughing clowns

you could say ed kuepper is currently on a musical roll
the saints and the clowns both playing to large crowds
particularly at the all-tomorrows-parties festival in january
since then ed has been drafted by nick cave as a bad seed
which can only add an exciting dimension to a well loved band
on friday night the clowns played as part of the melbourne jazz festival
tonight is the second night of 2 sell-out shows at the basement
no promise of any further shows so the fans are out in force
a pleasant if not dated sound as warm-up by the lighthouse keepers
another independent band from the 1980's recently reformed
but there's a real charge in the air as the clowns come on stage
there's also some large cameras in place to record the show
the fan next to me in the know saying it's for live at the basement
it's an unrecognisable noisefest in the first tune - improvisation?
leading into their signature tune of laughing clowns
it's loud, it's clear, it's solid and they are superbly tight
which is almost a contradiction given that they are pseudo-jazz
but the rock component of form, chorus, beat and rhythm locks it in
after a couple of tunes there's a discerning feeling of unity
each member clearly giving their all and into the sound
alister spence on keyboards looking like an original now
a lot of time spent syncing his sounds with louise elliot
she on her large tenor saxophone playing faultlessly
convincing this novice that a player can have their own sound
leslie (biff) millar on the best looking stand-up bass around
whacking strings, all over the place, volume just right and solid
jeffery wegener again displaying his exquisite timing and restraint
capable at any point of launching into drum solo-ish histronics
but always instead choosing a single tap, crash or not to add the edge
as for edmund kuepper - he's the human lightning rod at the centre
is surrounded by a band of musical equals and an adoring crowd
but nothing is taken for granted - he is a committed performer
looking and sounding as one totally connected to his craft
clearly enjoying his time at the centre of his invention
each unique and classic tune played with total conviction
every one of them sounding utterly and totally contemporary
collapse board again the tune of the night for this big sop
again dedicated in my head to a departed friend and song-fan
a tune that i suspect that could not be played by anyone else
which in hindsight is probably true of most of their material
including the classic eternally yours which lives up to its reputation
every time i hear this one ed has worked out a new arrangement
tonight it's a quite loose, noisy, all-in introduction hinting at what is coming
and then when louise plays that riff it just about brings the house down
being at the end of the set means the calls for encores are loud
and the band duly obliges with another 3 fine tunes
wrapping up with bully in the town
just totally freakin' unbelievable
here's hoping there's more
nick cave - lucky man

new gold dream

this youtube thing continues to amaze and delight
you name it - there seems to be something for everything
not to mention a very clever tool that knows what you like
comes up with recommended viewings based on those watched previously
so now i get a choice of music based clips closely aligned to my tastes
though you do get punished for goofing off on some nostalgia trip
a few weeks back i locked in a simple minds track from the 80's
so now - there's an abundance of them awaiting consumption
this one just too good sonically to be ignored
visually it's a dud - a single image of cover artwork
but apparantly it features stereolink - not sure what that is
it reminds me of the good old days when vinyl came out in stereo
i don't actually remember that much but it was well embraced
it was a quantum leap in the reproduction quality of music
which certainly is now needed for internet downloads
mp3 compression, etc compromising music quality
but whatever has been done here is totally noticeable
i love this tune anyway but here it sounds quite superb
my preference - stick on the headphones and crank up the volume
simple minds were are at a creative peak when they put this out
a full 28 years ago - unbelievable - and now back into stadiums
new gold dream 81-82-83-84 - seemed so forward thinking back then
bet they had no idea they would be playing it 30 years later
it just doesn't sound like something of that era
but that's probably true of the best of music
timelessness - is good - as is this tune

may day

had a real blast of a travelling day today in nz's south island
left christchurch yesterday in a pocket-rocket rental car
at nightfall cruised into a much rejuvenated kaikoura
last visit to this town probably 30 years ago
since then the whales have visited frequently
meaning this town is now a tourism mecca
backpackers, cafes, motels, bars are plentiful
but all done quite tastefully and in true nz style
this morning i drove out with snow on the hills
swirling clouds, chilly air and a crashing sea
bought ye olde style toasted sandwich and cup-a-coffee
hit the road north fired up the cd player and settled in
today's first discovery - fleet foxes cd is fine driving music
all tracks on the album so reminiscent of 70's something
hollies - csny - buffalo springfield - simon & garfunkel
but with an edge and production that sets it apart
but whatever - perfectly suited to today's trip
quiet roads, rolling hills, clear rivers, wild seas
a pervasive sense that here and now all is ok
hoping that the destination doesn't come too quickly
the digital camera my companion on this trip and needing air
so frequent stops to push buttons to try and capture atmosphere
thus turning a 90 minute trip into much more than that
which also allows time for a run through of another cd
animal collective today's second musical discovery
an unbelievable collection of noise-infested tunes
radiohead - beach boys - pink floyd - stone roses
topped off with great vocals, harmonies and production
both new albums soaked up before cruising into blenheim
business successfully done and dusted at the local cd store
being on a musical roll means another new cd is bought
(a p r exercise for what hopes will be a new client)
the superb drive through to nelson has a soundtrack
more hills, more vacant roads, more stunning scenery
with the cafe-del-mar-ish music of boozoo bajou
musical discovery number 3 initially underwhelming
but won over as the pocket-rocket cruises into nelson
the album itself morphing from m-o-r to left-of-centre
oh what a perfect day - topped off with a meal with friends
and then some fine red and amy winehouse in concert (dvd)
that would be musical discovery number 4 - she has soul
so rolling into bed tonight feeling happy and well
all is good in (this part of) the world...zzz

song in space

and continuing on the journey of unearthing church-ly delights
another example of this bands ability to boldly go where no others dare
space-rock - a bit of a self-imposed definition of some of their music
my interpretation of that is simply psychedelia meets guitar-rock
i gather groups such as hawkwind are the pioneers of the sound
but the church in their usual style do it their own unique way
this clip fresh to these eyes - never seen on any tv show
probably played once on rage at 4:00am one sunday morning
but youtube to the rescue again and seen 13,000 times plus
it's a few years old now but that is totally irrelevant
putting aside a few tunes (mostly off their first album)
every tune they have recorded as timeless as is possible
a big call i know but please - think the beatles
they got lucky - they turned twee into pop
took the crowd with them and kept experimenting
helped not insignificantly by the man and his machine
imploded after a few great albums and seemingly now untouchable
but for me - thanks but nearly 40 years of recycling is way too much
there's this other band that has churned out far more material
and most importantly - they still do - and still sound fresh
imagine there's no beatles - it's easy if you try
no hell below us - above us only - space -
- rock - the church - song in space
another timeless classic

rokia traore youtube

some time tonight spent reviewing the photo archives
including hundreds of them taken at womadelaide this year
a bit of an interest in preserving and documenting memories
so usually at a show a couple of minutes of rapid-fire shooting
in the hope that there is one photo at least worth preserving
not guaranteed given the amateur photographer and equipment
on a beautiful sunday night rokia traore wowed the crowd
i got a few good shots in then flicked the camera to movie mode
the result being a low quality film of a high quality show
i'd actually forgotten about this until it popped up tonight
watched it a couple of times and decided it's not too bad
certainly in comparison to many other youtube posted videos
what my little effort does is show why she is so special
the voice, the music, the dancing, the beauty all on display
the crowd totally in to the show and grooving away in front
not sure how this will look and sound to anyone else
but i reckon i'll re-visit it on the odd occasion
probably when needing a rokia or womadelaide fix
or most likely some ego-tripping on youtube
a nice feature there containing uploads
what fun - goofing off on the internet
though nowhere as good as live music
long may it last - go rokia - she great

the international

sometimes a bit of compromise is required
a decision made tonight to go and see a film
my teenage companion pushing for something fast and furious
my preference for something the polar opposite of that one
so an agreement to meet in the middle with the international
memories of clive owen in children of god still resonating
naomi watts last seen in the rather thinly painted veil
reviews, trailers, etc meaning not too much is expected
though mention of plot complexities in several reviews
means i am concentrating on the dialogue in the opening scenes
a want to stay with or understand the plot as best i can
clive owen and naomi watts play new-york based interpol agents
he is officer louis salinger - she his boss eleanor whitman
good-looking, moralistic, squeaky clean - the goodies
he is in berlin with a companion liasing with a snitch
part of a large european bank with ties to the underworld
corrupt governments, arms dealers, etc also major clients
so the heads of this bank are clearly defined as the baddies
and quite easy to accept given the state of our real world
suspiciously salingers companion has a fatal heart attack
shortly after the snitch dies in a mysterious car accident
and so salinger moves into high gear to get to the truth
bolding striding into enemy territory within impressive buildings
the action leaping all over europe as he goes about his work
with the architecture of berlin, luxembourg, milan, lyon on display
it's a fairly rapid ride as the banks dealings are revealed
leading to the assassination of a future prime minister in milan
this giving more opportunity for salinger to go harder and deeper
this man is on a mission and nothing is going to get in his way
yep - he has morphed into a james bond / jason bourne character
sidelining all other characters as his impossible mission unfolds
not only that but he is a man of steel dodging bullets with ease
emerging unscathed from a long shoot-out in the guggenheim
there's no damsals in distress but there's a hint of romance
our 2 stars being professional yet setting it up for something
the long tear-filled gazes, the gentle touching, the lonely lives
the climax of this film however is some action in istanbul
another city introduced with some impressive aerial shots
the action within the walls of the sultan ahmed (blue) mosque
some shady dealing, eavesdropping, a murder and then a chase
this one taking place across the rooftops around the mosque
so again and consistently some stunning architecture on display
in the end of course salinger gets his man - the head of the bank
cut - that's a wrap - now close it out with a set-up for part 2
multiple online news articles displayed regarding the (bad) bank
showing they continue on their devious ways all over the world
blatantly setting it up for salinger to continue his crusade
besides - the girl - we're all hanging out for that conquest
there's only 1 thing getting in his way i would suggest
bums on seats - if not enough that's it for salinger
but given the success of other films of this genre
i'd say that's not the last we see of this pairing
but for me - that would be enough i think
still - a good compromised viewing

the wrestler

too many good reviews can sometimes be a good thing
here making an unappealing subject an appealing film
american pro-wrestling not at all anything i give time to
just too contrived, primal, manipulated, senseless for my liking
when i heard about this film the first reaction was to steer clear
but there's been unanimous positive reviews and academy awards
on this night in this town there's a limited choice of films
so the prejudices are sidelined and the mind is opened
the film itself opens with an overview of the main man
randy 'the ram' robinson at the top of his game 20 years earlier
a long scan of newspaper clippings revealing his past glories
so cleverly no need to waste time and effort portraying early days
for it's the here and now that this film is concerned with
he's still trying to eek out a living as a professional
mickey rourke well beefed up and very muscular
looking very much the part of a wrestler past his prime
giving out advice and receiving respect from his companions
also some scenes of the wrestlers planning matches
then pushing things to the physical edge in the bouts
giving the small crowds value for money for their entertainment $
he's quite sweet on a stripper in a local club played by marisa tomei
there are some parallels here too - she also at the end of her career
and a clear reminder that especially in america work is mandatory
in this case both using and punishing their bodies for the crowds
the ram pushes it too far and ends up in hospital after a heart attack
is advised to give it all away and he wisely takes this advice
but he finds it difficult to operate in the real world
he is forced to take whatever part time work is available
with some quite funny scenes in a supermarket deli
he decides to make contact with the daughter he abandoned
her initial and sad reaction is in turn to reject his overtures
then in some touching scenes they are drawn close and all seems good
but then rejection by cassidy the stripper affects him profoundly
leading to him again messing up the relationship with his daughter
and a decision to once again return to his comfort zone in the ring
so it's a very simple storyline at work in this film
this is a good thing in this no-nonsense story
everything that happens is quite believable
my thinking this could be an american foreign film
slice of life stuff without the gloss or glamour
though the climax had me squirming a bit in my seat
there's just a couple of naff lines that spoil it
him - i don't want to be out there alone in the real world
her - but i'm here now - i mean - i'm really here now
not so much the lines but the delivery falling a bit flat
and then the film wraps quite unexpectedly and without resolution
ah - but - intentionally or not (doubt it) setting up for the wrestler 2
the cynic in me seeing strong parallels with the rocky series
from memory the first in that series was a good film too

aura

and presenting the second part in the series of classic church tunes
the church - them being the best band in the world by a few light years
this clip not an official church endorsed music vid but a youtube discovery
some seriously creative fan has put together and posted this video
being a bunch of literally fantastic images suited to the music
i watched it through once and thought it was quite interesting
then as usual once is not enough with this exceptional tune
so an immediate second viewing drew me in further and deeper
now it's on repeat play and forever linked to this tune
it may not be official but i'd say it would be approved
aura is the opening track off the album priest = aura
released in 1992 and still sounding as fresh as...
the tune itself being 7 minutes of genre-defining glory
a lovely orchestral introduction and an ear-piercing outro
in-between a melodic bassline, singing guitars, cracking drums
stunning production from scottish wunderkid-at-the-time gavin mackillop
mr kilbey delivering up his sublime poetry-lyrics as uniquely as ever
such lyrics seemingly having an influence on the video producer
the imagery of the words strongly linked to the clip visuals
this one is travelling with me to the desert island
another in a long list of church ageless classics
and now with a clip allowing similar repeat play
happy birthday to me - thank-you sunshine and spirit

two places at once

gems from the best band in the world part 1
the church - been cranking out fine music for 28 years now
have out-lasted, out-delivered, out-played, out-everything all others
in 1993 they called it a day - not sure why but it's not 'musical differences'
i'd be willing to suggest that the man over-promised and totally under-delivered
thankfully 2 of the core members kept the name alive and delivered sometime anywhere
an album of stunning music free of the shackles of contracts, expectation and familiarity
leading to an eventual reform of the band with a freedom still permeating today
an album released in 2009 with the joyous sound of independence dominant
but - rewind to 1994 - this track the sound of a new future possibility
this clip is quite sublime - the images and lyrics perfectly matched
recorded in mexico cutting between band-of-2 performances and storyline
the suggestion of ghosts in the tune conveyed brilliantly in the video
but the music - strings, guitars, choruses, gentle, rock-out, etc, etc
a staggering reminder of all that is possible in contemporary music
15 years later and they're still trailing a blaze musically
long live the church says this long-time hard-core fan
but for now - two places at once - is beautiful

carl dewhurst trio

sunday night now locked in as a visit to bohemian grove
a space 2 flights up in the industrial part of surry hills sydney
pay the dollars down pick a comfy seat and let go to what may follow
tonight's performance is a return visit by the carl dewhurst trio
the first act in the history of the venue to make such a return
indicating that variety has been a factor since the venue opened

still a bit of a struggle crowd-wise - tonight sees 15 or so punters
i've seen each of the musicians in this group in other outfits
the main man carl dewhurst one half of noise-makers showa 44
seen using his guitar to make noises a guitar should not make
so tonight i was thinking it could be more of the same with a trio
cameron undy on 5-string electric bass seen also recently

memories of a patchy gig with his 20th century dog combo
james hauptman on drums last seen with translators
he providing the necessaries to allow that band to shine
one good thing about the bohemian grove is lack of pretence
the musos show up, set up, plug in and away they go
no need for sound-check (no pa) or other malarkey
today it took about 15 minutes from whoa to go
3 musicians walk in, set up and then proceed to have fun
it just so happens there's an audience at this low-key gig
the opening tune as expected is the settling in period
though this band seems very familiar with it's material
ditto with each other as they quickly settle into a groove
carl dewhurst's guitar dominating as would be expected
it's not rock, it's not blues, it's not jazz, it's not funk
though the sound something like where they all converge
cameron undy's funk-bass and effects also very distinctive
to me it's a kind of 60's/70's american underground sound
very comparable to that heard recently on a compilation cd
so i'm very much enjoying being witness to their sound
a bunch of original tunes played very confidently yet loosely
almost a jam session feel but with it a known structure
the 3 musicians retaining constant eye contact to hold that
carl dewhurst has a unique and very solid guitar style
at one point an image of eric clapton popped into my head
which lead me to thinking i could be watching early cream
a great guitar-bass-drums instrument-only blues-rock sound
with an echoey sound in this room that could be of that era
and so from that i'm thinking what an aural treat this is
which of course then leads to why not more people?
this is not some obscure avant-garde improvised noise-fest
(not that there is anything wrong with that to these ears)
this band is fresh, talented, giving and very listenable
the small crowd very much into what they put out
they too seeming well satisfied with their night's work
looking forward to seeing them on a bigger stage soon

summer hours

confession - juliette binoche can do no wrong in these eyes
put her in a film - any film - and i'm there with rose-tinted glasses on
seems i'm not alone though - one david stratton for one at least also besotted
an interview by him of her on his tv show putting this film on the must-see list
in this film she plays adrienne, sister to 2 brothers frederic and jeremie
they and their families are visiting their mother on her 75th birthday
the film opening with children running through the country property
a joyous time for all spoilt by death-wish instructions from mother
she stating the family home will need to be sold when her time comes
valuable furniture and artwork is to be sent to the musee d'orsay
mother's uncle was a famous artist previously sharing the house
so there is national cultural interest in the pieces in the house
soon after mother does in fact pass away so it's decision time
oldest brother frederic the only one not wanting to sell
there's impassioned arguments articulated from the 3 siblings
and for me the feeling that the family may be torn apart
this dispute then becoming the central theme of the film
used as a means to expose the personalities of the siblings
and at the same time demonstrating the fine art of problem resolution
impressively and believably done with no damage to relationships
leading me to think that it may well be a cultural thing
that family, respect, decency overrides all other matters
as this problem is being resolved we learn more of the mother
there is a secret involving her relationship with her famous uncle
her long-time housekeeper adds some gentle humour to the film
and back in new york a there's a brief cameo by kyle eastwood
playing the part of adriennes supportive boyfriend in her home city
i found i was completely absorbed with this quite gentle film
i kept bracing myself for some unexpected turn, shock or twist
but no such thing - it's another case of slice of (french) life stuff
though in this case it is enriched with some emphasis on art
a subtle education as paintings, vases, and furniture is discussed
particularly with several relevant scenes in the musee d'orsay
the film goes full circle with the climax back in the family home
(older) children again seen enjoying the freedom of the property
some long single-take scenes focussing on one grand-daughter
and a quiet revelation by her that could easily be missed
but cleverly demonstrating the connection of generations
in the end juliette binoche was not the major player
just another member of a typical extended family
dealing with typical family issues and problems
typical french-film making really - love it

sandy evans trio

part 2 of the trio of trios over the 3 days of this weekend
sandy evans is the shining star of the australian contemporary music scene
much is made of the fact that she is a woman working in a male dominated area
she overcame that decades ago and now is an extraordinary composer and musician
at least 2 of her other permanent groups are personal must-see favourites of mine
ten part invention and gest8 are both large groups that rely on her playing and composing
tonight is the first time i have seen her in a much smaller numbered lineup
a similarly slimmed-down brett hirst her choice of musician on standup bass
toby hall also looking trimmer than last seen appointed to take care of drums
i didn't know what to expect musically tonight apart from some quality playing
a chance for sandy to fly off freely in any direction she chose to go
this confirmed in the first part of the first tune titled 3 channels
the 3 of them immediately hard at work on their respective instruments
randomly and furiously played to somehow make a coherent absorbing sound
sandy then counting them in as the tune morphed into one with beat and noise
lucky me down the front feeling totally as one with their early connection
brett hirst looking in transcendence as his eyes locked on to something middle distance
toby hall playing as though possessed and delivering up a vast array of sounds
his ability to do this without over-powering the music a most impressive skill
it's a great start with sandy crediting the composer as sydney based eddie bronson
then a change in style as sandy talks briefly about her recent trip to india
flicks the switch on some electronic device and we're now in that part of the world
brett hirst then impressively playing solo bass with a matching eastern feel
sandy then picking up her soprano saxophone to work in a compatible sound
me thinking how lucky we all are to hear the results of her musical adventure
another case of world experiences infusing compositions and coming out in music
sandy always ready to push the musical envelope out of the comfort zone
and i suspect teaming up with musicians willing and able to do the same
after only 3 tunes i was completely mesmerised by this trio
all thoughts of a likely night of fine jazz standards now gone
this group prepared to take on all the risks of live performance
the challenge of playing relatively unfamiliar and complex music
but knowing that given the right circumstances it can be exhilarating
tonight it all came together - assisted in a small part by the audience i hope
it's not often at this venue that complete silence is given over
the sometimes annoying applause for solos dissipated
with some relief allowing the musicians to concentrate fully
some recent reading suggesting this is the preference of musicians
in the second set sandy continued to announce and talk about her music
2 tunes in particular again highlighting sandy's nature inspirations
the triumphant arch a new tune dedicated to the beauty of rainbows
followed by sunshine on tears also inspired by that natural occurrence
by now the band in full flight with each musician inspired by each other
the on-stage body language and chat confirming full contentment
the big one for me in the final set a tune back-announced as sa-ha
another indian-inspired piece of slow, superb, saxophone-playing
various movements giving each of the trio time to let loose
all contained within the beautiful feel of this quite dreamy piece
all too soon the night winding up with another local tune
sandy paying her respects to her peer mr bernie mcgann
his tune scatology a rousing ensemble piece ending the night
an audience laying on loud and long applause for this superb band
2 down 1 to go - gotta love the trio format - next.......

browne hannaford anning trio

complex, simple, aggressive, delicate, triumphal, dazzling, acerbic and engaging
so read the writeup from sima for this melbourne trio
on tonight at the sound lounge - part 1 of a 3 part series
a personal plan to get to see 3 trios over 3 nights this weekend
there is something quite engaging about a group of 3
jazz, rock, blues, alternative - whatever the genre
an equality and inter-dependence the factors at work
like a 3-legged stool - take one away and down it comes
well a simplistic theory and better analysed by those more qualified
i just know that musically when it works it works really well
so if this outfit can deliver on the promise it will be memorable
alan browne is a legendary figure in the australian jazz scene
has established labels, lectured, toured internationally, supported locally
mentors, teaches, records, writes poetry, books and music
has a permanent monday night residency at bennetts lane
i've never seen him in action so tonight i'm parked in front of his drumkit
both he and his band are given a reverential introduction by the m c
the word most memorably used to describe them is formidable
in the middle of the stage is award-winning bass player sam anning
over the left on the beautiful yamaha c7 piano is marc hannaford
as they work their way into the first tune the promise seems real
it strikes me they are playing structured music with confidence
this is not improvised or as often is the case based on skills and sheet music
each knows precisely what each other is doing and how it all locks together
the musical ball being tossed around a bit as each member is highlighted
alan browne himself with a kit that may well have been with him for 40 years
there's no doubt he loves playing and it seems also so with this outfit
they also seem in a bit in awe of his presence and visually deferring to him
he assumes role of spokesman and takes time between tunes to talk to us
graciously thanks his hosts, his band and his audience and moves on
this and his music means i find myself transported over the next few tunes
a feeling that i am witnessing a quite classic form of jazz music
confirmed by the back announcements of the composers they are referencing
thelonious monk, duke ellington, louis armstrong, bud powell amongst them
at times the music is gentle, melodic and with a beautiful piano sound
marc hannaford without fuss demonstrating classic (classical?) style
sam anning anchoring things precisely or using the bow to great effect
alan's browne quite loud drumming dominating when he fires up
his style and proximity almost drowning out the other music
but this is ok for someone like me who embraces volume and noise
the end of the first set confirming that the now full house is also happy
in the second set there are 2 tunes that stood out amongst the others
a quite moving, beautiful rendition of an ella fizgerald tune titled solitude
and another duke ellington piece entitled black and tan fantasy
allan browne happy to acknowledge his love of this one after 40 years
and for me equally happy to be given a lesson in classic jazz
it's a long, structured piece that heads off into a blues feel
at the conclusion there are 3 very happy musicians on stage
and an audience that has been witness to some superb music
the aforementioned program writeup pretty well spot-on
complex, simple, aggressive, delicate, triumphal, dazzling, acerbic and engaging

bottle shock

bottle shock affects some wines when transferred from cask to bottle
it is also the name of this film based in the napa valley in california
it had reasonable write-ups and seemed ideal for a casual film
especially as tonight the mood is for enjoyment not challenge
apart from a wine story the main appeal is based-on-fact
apparently in 1976 american wines cleaned up in a paris competition
opening the doors for a flood of american wines onto the world market
then in turn other wines from other parts of the world became exportable
the intention of this film is to explain how it all happened
the film opens in the napa valley - some great wide-screen shots
showing the vastness, openness and clean air of the vineyards there
some appropriate 70's music blasting to remind us of the times
the main characters are introduced - a struggling father and son
dad is the hard-worker, son is the lazy long-haired layabout
tension between the 2 resolved by slugging it out in the boxing ring
these are hardened blokes after all so it beats having a chat
bo (son) looking a lot like brad pitt in thelma and louise
then along comes sam - a cute blonde intern so we can see the future
we are then off to paris (supposedly) to meet the other star
he's an ex-pat brit living in paris named steven spurrier
he runs an unsuccessful wine shop and is struggling socially
not being taken too seriously as a british wine snob in paris
the actor is alan rickman who mostly i find a little creepy
nothing changes here as his trademark sneer works well in this role
a newspaper article sees him decide to make some changes
and it's off to california to gather some wines for local judging
a chance encounter then sees all the characters inter-t-wine-d
and away we go as we live amongst them for a while
various relationships are exposed and toyed with on screen
father-son, son-friend, son-girl, son-mother, father-mother, etc
but a combination of unconvincing acting and direction gets in the way
possibly because there's a deliberate intention to retain focus
the film after all is about wine and trouncing the french
which really became obvious when the action is back in france
the climax of the film is the wine-tasting - the 'judgement of paris'
where finally the wine from father-son wins the top prize
but these scenes outside paris are spoilt by a very lazy approach
they are clearly filmed in california - the scenery is the same
an attempt to convince us otherwise by dropping in a few french cars
but just too many citreon ds23 and 2cv's held in focus for too long
at which point i decided this film was too skewed for my liking
the french judges not overtly mocked but done so all the same
and a final sneer from alan rickman as the credits roll
this is in fact the most interesting part of the film
with text to explain more of the event and people
some after-film research on wiki quite interesting
with the real steve spurrier quite dismissive -
there is hardly a word that is true in the script
and many, many pure inventions as far as I am concerned
oh well - nice try - maybe it's for americans...

james sherlock trio

last night there were about 10 of us totally entranced by the music
my thoughts being why aren't there more in this city into this scene
world's best practice musically speaking and a de-void audience
tonight i follow some advice and get to another secret music club
a graffiti-rich entrance-way and a buzzer to seek admission
5 flights up in a dilapidated lift with no lights on
bringing to mind a scene from a twilight zone episode
there's already been a major power cut today so a tense ride
a relieved exit and a walk across a skyway to the entrance
pay the dollars down and in we go to the famed 505 club
there's something going on as there are a lot of people
in stark contrast to the previous nights (non) attendance
but a cautious (spelt c-y-n-i-c-a-l) feeling overrides excitement
a quick glance around confirms there's a lot of beautiful people
suggesting this may be more a fashion statement than a musical experience
but ok let's got with it - a crowd is needed and here they are
the music tonight is provided by the james sherlock trio
he himself on a beautiful white electric jazz guitar
the double bass played by the very busy brendan clarke
tim firth not seen for quite a while on drums and percussion
they start up with a quite gentle theloniuos monk tune
early confirmation given of another successful combination
james sherlock straight into all manner of chords, riffs, keys
tim firth demonstrating a light and fluid touch on his kit
brendan clarke glueing it together with mr-reliable bass-playing
the second tune is a jazz version of the stranglers golden brown
and very nice too - played with respect and sounding like a classic
i'm not sure many in this relatively young-ish crowd recognised it
then things go off musically speaking as the band settle in
some own compositions are played featuring the guitar
me thinking his playing not far removed from john scofield
maybe an unfair comparison style-wise but not skill-wise
a solo piece confirming this as mr sherlock quietens the crowd
so again the audience is witness to some world-class music
thankfully tonight there's a large number in attendance
about 80 people mostly sitting on the floor mostly listening
the annoying few thinking it ok to carry on conversations
and one chap thinking it ok to put himself and camera anywhere
effectively making the band a 4 piece with his annoying presence
to their credit the band ignored him and just kept playing
me - angry - i think he overstepped the intrusion line big time
showing complete indifference to the band and audience
in the second set we witness more fine ensemble playing
including a beautiful rendition of an antonio carlos jobim tune
a slow, melodic, lilting, melancholic tune played with style
and to me confirming that this 3 piece is in a fine place
their justified satisfaction celebrated in the final tune
announced as another jazz classic and given due treatment
each musician well relaxed and now playing very confidently
solos from each member leading to a lively and rousing ending
only spoilt by the amateur photographer again seeking attention
so absorbed by his instrument he had no regard for others
i did try to ignore him but he almost stole the show
thankfully the music tonight was too good for him
not that he would have noticed though
the james sherlock trio - nice work

the reaston kay effect

back to the bohemian grove for another sunday night of musical bliss
though unfortunately only another 7 people searching out musical manna
maybe there's something good on tv or something - or else i've been mislead
i'd read the mid-week email which in a twisted way promised something special
there's 550 of us on this email list so it's a bit odd that we only have 1.5% conversion
a pre-show chat with the host confirming his disappointment with the numbers
but then again not too surprised with the numbers at live music these days
this outfit is built around the 2 main composers and collaborators
david reaston on nylon-stringed semi-acoustic guitar
his foil martin kay on alto saxophone and m c duties
they have also 2 of the finest around to fill out the rhythm section
brendan clarke on bass - last seen with the latest international on these shores
dave goodman (professor) taking time out from lecturing to play drums
the first number confirming that this indeed will be a fine night of music
reason and kay immediately into some very precise sax/guitar harmonies
sheet music stands also indicating that their preference is structure
the rhythm section as solid as you could wish for filling out the sound
looking for points of difference as i usually do it's stage right the eyes go
over there david reaston is a bit drowned out but making some great music
there are some fine jazz guitarists around and he seems to be up there
nothing too flashy as he concentrates on delivering every note precisely
his choice of instrument producing a very warm and lyrical sound
when martin kay takes centre stage he also demonstrates great skill
his alto saxophone playing is also new to these eyes and ears
another case of another very skilled musician on the sydney scene
he knows his instrument very well and confidently pulls all sorts of sounds
a favourite being that kind of duck quack sound i've heard before
also a gentle whisper-blow into the sax to make the subtlest of sounds
and everything else in-between - some superb playing from the man
he also does the decent thing and thanks the small audience for being there
takes the time to explain the source of the material - with humour
i assume all the material is original - there's reference to a cd on release
every tune seems significantly different from every other - is good
the thing that struck me about this band was firstly the material
each tune standing on it's own and played with confidence
every musician contributing significantly to the overall sound
in one tune in particular there were 4 sets of hands in unison
each musician using their instrument to sound like each other
hard to explain but a pleasure to experience - you had to be there
likewise with another moment of brilliance coming from dave goodman
such an accomplished player he segued into a drum solo seamlessly
had me taken in long before i noticed he was the only one playing
which i think says something for his highly developed skills
(or possibly my zoning out of the music but i think not)
one thing i always enjoy with live music is checking the on-stage mood
here tonight there is a great camaraderie amongst the musicians
a sense of respect and admiration going in all directions
so again i'm left thinking we the audience have let them down again
though by the end of the second set there were about 15 of us lapping it up
all of us making as much noise as possible as they downed instruments
i'm now fearing for the future of this fine sunday night venue
gotta go out there and get some more people along
...if they only knew what they are missing

toni childs

yep - the lady herself - recording star from the late 1980's
a good friend and big fan of her first seminal album scored some tickets
she's playing at one of those big club mega-centres on the central coast
part of an australian/nz tour that sees her in lots of places like that
which may well suggest that's where her fanbase is now found
no worries - always up for some live music and so i'm in
sure enough it's a full house in the room she's playing
a large space with a stage and chairs set out in rows
no dance-floor, mosh-pit, or teenagers anywhere in sight
average age - about 55 i reckon - lots of middle-aged couples
which makes perfect sense - she was big on commercial radio 20 years ago
loved by women mostly, given due respect from music-loving men
her material and delivery nicely slightly left of centre
most striking back then was her powerful and unique voice
first tune tonight is stop your fussin' and her voice is as strong as ever
this of course has the crowd whooping it up and she embraces that
she takes the time to tell us a little about her life since fame days
graves disease knocking her down and out of the music scene
but she's back with a new album and loving it again it seems
which of course has major crowd approval and on with the show
there's a mixture of old and new in the set - all sounding solid
the band itself is an odd mixture of young local musicians
one on cello dressed to the nines and taking it very seriously
the bass-player in tracky-daks and flannel shirt and doing the job
drummer, 2 guitarists and keyboards player completing the lineup
the 6-piece band not doing anything to distract from the lady
she herself sticking with laying in the voice on the tunes
all in all it's a very pleasant musical experience to be had
though not until she gives permission to stand does it go up a level
the crowd happily on their feet and grooving away to zimbabwe
another tune from her first very successful album titled union
it's in this tune that her world music / peter gabriel connections shine
a nice african kind of groove and backing vocals from the crowd
so everyone feeling quite relaxed and enjoying this scene
this leads to demands for 2 encores from the crowd
toni childs herself seeming well chuffed with the response
all in all a successful night for all involved

speed your love to me

simple minds - one of my favourite bands of the 80's
saw them every time they toured, bought every album released
loved pretty well every tune they cranked out (except the big one)
but if i ever had to pick one tune for the desert island collection this is it
had forgotten all about it until a random search on youtube popped it up
reminding me of seeing them perform this in concert a couple of years ago
this is just an amazing piece of uplifting power-pop-rock-love-song
huge drum sound, driving bass, superb guitars, perfect keyboards
and jim kerr on vocals extolling his love to get her ass over here
...or words to that effect but the message is nuch the same
i must admit i hadn't taken too much notice of the video
but 25 years later and it's a real trip that it takes us on
a suggestion of heading on the freeway out of a city
a bit of psychedelic time-warp travelling stuff
then a burst out into the great outdoors
perfect - repeat play entirely possible
and better still - 2009 back in oz
woo-hoo for us minds fans

nick bowd quartet youtube

it's not high-res, high-fi, high-tech or high-anything
just 3 minutes of a great show captured on a digital camera
the sound is muffled, the video is grainy and the tune is truncated
they'll be paying big bucks to see at least one of these musos in the future
and this clip will be famous because it happened before fame and fortune
which of course is what everyone says about their youtube clips
especially as is this one - numero uno for me
but mostly i think it's just great fun
stick a camera in someone's face
post the result on youtube
marvel at the technology
enjoy the experience...