Rather empty day with a lot of it spent writing once again.
To be honest I'll probably have it all done sooner than I think I will
and I'm sure I'll be able to add stuff to it before publishing it
online at Christmas.
Mock The Week, despite containing a few jokes about the Commonwealth
Games, was probably the weakest one of the series mainly due
to the unwelcome return of the Newsreel round, and Andi Osho
being unable to make jokes that weren't race related.
On the more positive side, Carl Donnelly settled in well as the show
went on with his funniest joke being about his resemblance
to Screech from "Saved By The Bell".
It's the last one in the series next week, as HIGNFY returns
in two weeks, still on Thursdays but with an impressive list
of guest hosts as I've read on the BBC Press office with
the star of Sherlock being one of those to take the reigns.
Let's hope things carry on going wrong in the world
so we can have a laugh about it all.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
"It Couldn't Happen Now"
This really defines surreal in all senses.
An appearance from The Inspiral Carpets on TV-AM's "WAC '90"
(which actually began in 1989) introduced by Michaela Strachan
in a very condescending manner.
To be fair it was pretty early on a Saturday morning,
so I imagine the band's demographic would be a bit hungover
should they had been watching the show.
This was the last incarnation of "The Wide Awake Club"
which by now was produced by an independent production company
run by a former WAC producer and was a shadow of it's
former self with Timmy Mallet as the host.
They went on to make the successor "Top Banana" hosted
by Australian Mike Brosnan and had the best ever sound effects
for a gameshow, notably the one for the book based questions;
"Bookworm! I'm a, Bookworm!".
I wouldn't have thought 20 years later that one of the hosts of WAC
would be a subject of a Scouting For Girls song.
An appearance from The Inspiral Carpets on TV-AM's "WAC '90"
(which actually began in 1989) introduced by Michaela Strachan
in a very condescending manner.
To be fair it was pretty early on a Saturday morning,
so I imagine the band's demographic would be a bit hungover
should they had been watching the show.
This was the last incarnation of "The Wide Awake Club"
which by now was produced by an independent production company
run by a former WAC producer and was a shadow of it's
former self with Timmy Mallet as the host.
They went on to make the successor "Top Banana" hosted
by Australian Mike Brosnan and had the best ever sound effects
for a gameshow, notably the one for the book based questions;
"Bookworm! I'm a, Bookworm!".
I wouldn't have thought 20 years later that one of the hosts of WAC
would be a subject of a Scouting For Girls song.
Not So Smooth Sailing
The preparation of the launch for Smooth Radio on a national platform
has been hampered again by the announcement that Tony Blackburn
will be leaving his weekend breakfast show before he
takes the reigns of Pick Of The Pops on BBC Radio 2.
A bigger concern is what will happen to producer and Westminster
alumni Seb Sears, with the possibility of the weekend breakfast
show moving to Manchester, although Seb's got quite a few eggs
in other baskets.
The Radio 2 gig won't have an effect on his shows at smaller stations
including Hull's KCFM, and KMFM over here as well as the many stations
that take his soul and Motown show.
That said KMFM seems to be sinking lower and lower
with Bob Mower's alternative rock show dropped on Fridays and
Johnny Lewis's Vinyl Years on Sunday evenings now gone from the
schedule.
As one of their presenters pointed out at the Radio Academy's imaging
conference, the station needs to do a lot more to stand out from the crowd
as I personally feel that it sounds too similar to Heart and not that
inspiring.
Especially compared to two years ago with the fantastic Rock Show
hosted by Richard Walters who's now at XFM in London.
It's understandble that redundancies and costs have to be produced
but come on.
What's happened to creativity and effort?
Oh yes, this is present day radio, and they're not really requirements
in comparison to gaining profit instead of investing in people.
has been hampered again by the announcement that Tony Blackburn
will be leaving his weekend breakfast show before he
takes the reigns of Pick Of The Pops on BBC Radio 2.
A bigger concern is what will happen to producer and Westminster
alumni Seb Sears, with the possibility of the weekend breakfast
show moving to Manchester, although Seb's got quite a few eggs
in other baskets.
The Radio 2 gig won't have an effect on his shows at smaller stations
including Hull's KCFM, and KMFM over here as well as the many stations
that take his soul and Motown show.
That said KMFM seems to be sinking lower and lower
with Bob Mower's alternative rock show dropped on Fridays and
Johnny Lewis's Vinyl Years on Sunday evenings now gone from the
schedule.
As one of their presenters pointed out at the Radio Academy's imaging
conference, the station needs to do a lot more to stand out from the crowd
as I personally feel that it sounds too similar to Heart and not that
inspiring.
Especially compared to two years ago with the fantastic Rock Show
hosted by Richard Walters who's now at XFM in London.
It's understandble that redundancies and costs have to be produced
but come on.
What's happened to creativity and effort?
Oh yes, this is present day radio, and they're not really requirements
in comparison to gaining profit instead of investing in people.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
How To Make A Brilliant TV Drama
What has to be the best television series for a long time made it's bow
tonight and it didn't go out without anything extreme.
I won't give too much away in case anyone hasn't seen it yet,
but there were one or two loose ends near the climax of the episode
which were a bit uncertain, but not enough to draw me away from
the overall brilliance of the series.
And I can see Vicky McClure going even further as she's definitely
proved herself to be a very strong character in the role of Lol,
and tonight she took it to a greater level.
There's a few photos of the cast here, including one of Richard Ayoade
as he's recently assisted on another Warp project with producer
Mark Herbert.
I'm really looking forward to the DVD coming out,
and if Shane's doing a signing in London, I am right there.
I'm not going to make the same mistake I made after Somers Town
was released last January.
And to reiterate one of the more intelligent comments from the
Digital Spy forums, if the extreme violence and related scenes
aren't you're cup of tea, then fuck off and stick to soap operas.
tonight and it didn't go out without anything extreme.
I won't give too much away in case anyone hasn't seen it yet,
but there were one or two loose ends near the climax of the episode
which were a bit uncertain, but not enough to draw me away from
the overall brilliance of the series.
And I can see Vicky McClure going even further as she's definitely
proved herself to be a very strong character in the role of Lol,
and tonight she took it to a greater level.
There's a few photos of the cast here, including one of Richard Ayoade
as he's recently assisted on another Warp project with producer
Mark Herbert.
I'm really looking forward to the DVD coming out,
and if Shane's doing a signing in London, I am right there.
I'm not going to make the same mistake I made after Somers Town
was released last January.
And to reiterate one of the more intelligent comments from the
Digital Spy forums, if the extreme violence and related scenes
aren't you're cup of tea, then fuck off and stick to soap operas.
The Last Visit To '86
More writing has been taking place throughout today, and it hasn't
half made it speed by.
It's made me forget that tonight is the much anticipated final episode
of This Is England '86 and it hasn't disappointed at all, with regards
to my perceptions of it being the best TV series of the year.
Before that on BBC 1 I may watch a documentary where John Sweeney
best known for his outburst at a scientologist, revisits that subject
3 years on, and of course there's The Daily Show on More4.
Expect my blog posts to get shorter for a little while whilst I
continue writing about television past, but for those who
are interested I hope the end result will give a good individual
perspective.
I should really be looking for jobs at the BFi or other
film archives to be honest.
half made it speed by.
It's made me forget that tonight is the much anticipated final episode
of This Is England '86 and it hasn't disappointed at all, with regards
to my perceptions of it being the best TV series of the year.
Before that on BBC 1 I may watch a documentary where John Sweeney
best known for his outburst at a scientologist, revisits that subject
3 years on, and of course there's The Daily Show on More4.
Expect my blog posts to get shorter for a little while whilst I
continue writing about television past, but for those who
are interested I hope the end result will give a good individual
perspective.
I should really be looking for jobs at the BFi or other
film archives to be honest.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Pants Sweating
Most of today has been spent writing my "telly tangent"
about Saturday mornings which should be available on here
by Christmas.
This time round everyone will be able to read it, and
it probably won't take as long to write considering half of it
was done 18 months ago whilst I was still at Uni.
On that note, I've managed to find footage from Going Live!
from 21 years ago involving the definitive comedy double act
of Saturday mornings, performing with one of my favourite
female vocalists.
Never a performer to take herself too seriously, the former
Blue Zone member blends in pretty well although unlike most
participants on the show, she's rather modest about joining in.
I would have liked the clip to have gone on for longer,
as judging by where Sarah Greene is positioned, it looks as if
she's about to preside over a round of the interactive phone in
competition "Star Shot" which was succeeded by examples
such as "Feed The Frog", "Nobble The Wobbles"
and probably most memorable of all "Grabbit Rabbit".
The only "full" edition of Going Live! that I have is the first
one from series 2 where Phillip presented on his own from
Studio 7 whilst Sarah was still recovering in hospital
after her future husband crashed his helicopter with both of them
inside.
I noticed that "Smithy" contributed to an article in this week's
Media Guardian supplement to give his thoughts on Chris Moyles's
whingefest last week.
If you saw his appearance on that lovefest of past Radio 1 breakfast
disk jockeys earlier in the year, you could sense that he wasn't
a great fan of "The Saviour" although he didn't come across as
too bitter despite feeling bad about giving up the broadcast medium
he loved, in favour of giving up and coming comics their first TV
appearances on "That's Showbusiness".
Seriously though, Simon Mayo was more than a worthy successor.
about Saturday mornings which should be available on here
by Christmas.
This time round everyone will be able to read it, and
it probably won't take as long to write considering half of it
was done 18 months ago whilst I was still at Uni.
On that note, I've managed to find footage from Going Live!
from 21 years ago involving the definitive comedy double act
of Saturday mornings, performing with one of my favourite
female vocalists.
Never a performer to take herself too seriously, the former
Blue Zone member blends in pretty well although unlike most
participants on the show, she's rather modest about joining in.
I would have liked the clip to have gone on for longer,
as judging by where Sarah Greene is positioned, it looks as if
she's about to preside over a round of the interactive phone in
competition "Star Shot" which was succeeded by examples
such as "Feed The Frog", "Nobble The Wobbles"
and probably most memorable of all "Grabbit Rabbit".
The only "full" edition of Going Live! that I have is the first
one from series 2 where Phillip presented on his own from
Studio 7 whilst Sarah was still recovering in hospital
after her future husband crashed his helicopter with both of them
inside.
I noticed that "Smithy" contributed to an article in this week's
Media Guardian supplement to give his thoughts on Chris Moyles's
whingefest last week.
If you saw his appearance on that lovefest of past Radio 1 breakfast
disk jockeys earlier in the year, you could sense that he wasn't
a great fan of "The Saviour" although he didn't come across as
too bitter despite feeling bad about giving up the broadcast medium
he loved, in favour of giving up and coming comics their first TV
appearances on "That's Showbusiness".
Seriously though, Simon Mayo was more than a worthy successor.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
An Inspired Shower?
Dreadful weather this afternoon, making the journey up to CSR
pretty tricky.
It wasn't too bad as quite a few were present including
James O/Bs, Rhiannon Marketing, and Lucy Programme Manager.
That makes it easy to remember who does what.
Lucy in particular had really strained her throat, possibly
after attending a 1Xtra gig last night where Tinie Tempah
was one of the headline acts.
The show itself went OK with a good response on Twitter
and Facebook, where next week sees the launch of
the "A-Z Double Jam".
Basically each week I'll play two tracks by two different
acts who begin with the same letter so for example
"A" could involve Azymuth and the Average White Band.
I said it wouldn't be too exciting.
The search for a job continues tomorrow, as it has
been for almost 18 months.
I need a hell of a lot more bottle and attention to detail
when writing through my covering letters.
There's just a complete lack of motivation at home and
in Canterbury.
pretty tricky.
It wasn't too bad as quite a few were present including
James O/Bs, Rhiannon Marketing, and Lucy Programme Manager.
That makes it easy to remember who does what.
Lucy in particular had really strained her throat, possibly
after attending a 1Xtra gig last night where Tinie Tempah
was one of the headline acts.
The show itself went OK with a good response on Twitter
and Facebook, where next week sees the launch of
the "A-Z Double Jam".
Basically each week I'll play two tracks by two different
acts who begin with the same letter so for example
"A" could involve Azymuth and the Average White Band.
I said it wouldn't be too exciting.
The search for a job continues tomorrow, as it has
been for almost 18 months.
I need a hell of a lot more bottle and attention to detail
when writing through my covering letters.
There's just a complete lack of motivation at home and
in Canterbury.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Claggy Comedy
Quite a normal night in front of the television, but entertaining
nonetheless.
First of all was tonight's X Factor, and the first of this weekend's
visits to Boot Camp at the Wembley Arena.
A new twist was added where Brian Friedman, the show's
"creative director" (and one time judge) lead all the hopefuls
through a dance masterclass to mixed results.
Although I did think that the bit with the young fella
who bottled it did looked rather contrived, but then again
what isn't contrived on The X Factor?
After that was the second helping in the current series
of the Comedy Roadshow where as expected Sarah Millican was
on form.
The routine lead many people on Twitter to Google the word
"claggy", although my favourite bit was the "cake pigeon".
That's a gag that's definitely going in the Xmas compilation.
The playlist is sorted for tomorrow's show where I will be rounding
off the Silver Soul feature which has taken me longer than
35 weeks.
I've got a new feature lined up to take over from it however,
which I'll be revealing on the show although I'm sure you
would have heard it done in one form or other.
Hopefully not with the same songs I'm going to play.
nonetheless.
First of all was tonight's X Factor, and the first of this weekend's
visits to Boot Camp at the Wembley Arena.
A new twist was added where Brian Friedman, the show's
"creative director" (and one time judge) lead all the hopefuls
through a dance masterclass to mixed results.
Although I did think that the bit with the young fella
who bottled it did looked rather contrived, but then again
what isn't contrived on The X Factor?
After that was the second helping in the current series
of the Comedy Roadshow where as expected Sarah Millican was
on form.
The routine lead many people on Twitter to Google the word
"claggy", although my favourite bit was the "cake pigeon".
That's a gag that's definitely going in the Xmas compilation.
The playlist is sorted for tomorrow's show where I will be rounding
off the Silver Soul feature which has taken me longer than
35 weeks.
I've got a new feature lined up to take over from it however,
which I'll be revealing on the show although I'm sure you
would have heard it done in one form or other.
Hopefully not with the same songs I'm going to play.
Soul Survivors
Last night was quite a long one.
A lot of it spent listening to Stephen Howie on his internet
station Soul Central Radio where it managed to get it's
highest number of listeners.
Possibly because of the really cold weather, but it was
was a good listen all the same.
I'm finding myself listening to it more than Stephen's
Grooveline show for Blast 1386 as I prefer the liveness
and loose feel to the show where almost anything
from the stations large library of rare grooves can be played.
Elsewhere things haven't been too good in my area
as apparently there was a break in at the CSR studios
in Eliot College yesterday where an unknown individual
was broadcasting at 2am, and suddenly disappeared after
the programming manager mentioned it on Facebook.
Here's hoping tomorrow evening will be fine.
As for today, nothing special lined up apart from
Fighting Talk on 5 Live, The X Factor, and Michael McIntyre.
I'll do my best to manage.
A lot of it spent listening to Stephen Howie on his internet
station Soul Central Radio where it managed to get it's
highest number of listeners.
Possibly because of the really cold weather, but it was
was a good listen all the same.
I'm finding myself listening to it more than Stephen's
Grooveline show for Blast 1386 as I prefer the liveness
and loose feel to the show where almost anything
from the stations large library of rare grooves can be played.
Elsewhere things haven't been too good in my area
as apparently there was a break in at the CSR studios
in Eliot College yesterday where an unknown individual
was broadcasting at 2am, and suddenly disappeared after
the programming manager mentioned it on Facebook.
Here's hoping tomorrow evening will be fine.
As for today, nothing special lined up apart from
Fighting Talk on 5 Live, The X Factor, and Michael McIntyre.
I'll do my best to manage.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Autumn's Arrived Alright
Pretty uneventful day, not helped by the awful weather outside.
And pretty bad timewise for Mum as she's spending the weekend
walking across the South Downs with some of her friends from
school.
Hopefully a night in front of the git box will brighten things
up with Qi where Bill Bailey's guesting this week,
and 8 Out Of 10 Cats where one of their guests
is Caroline Opacic's older sister Sarah Millican.
The South Shields stand up is also appearing on
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, and if McIntyre doesn't
start by saying "From my favourite city of them all!"
in the first link, I will will reward people cash for reading my blog.
And pretty bad timewise for Mum as she's spending the weekend
walking across the South Downs with some of her friends from
school.
Hopefully a night in front of the git box will brighten things
up with Qi where Bill Bailey's guesting this week,
and 8 Out Of 10 Cats where one of their guests
is Caroline Opacic's older sister Sarah Millican.
The South Shields stand up is also appearing on
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, and if McIntyre doesn't
start by saying "From my favourite city of them all!"
in the first link, I will will reward people cash for reading my blog.
Inconsistent Searching
I've been in denial for far too long.
I seem to have convinced myself that the way to get over
the struggles of not finding a job is to put it to one side
and focus more on things that prevent me from being depressed
and put me permanently at leisure.
If that's the right way to describe it.
In the long run, it means that all my anxieties turn
into an even bigger problem and the only way to get round
it is to deal with it and tell someone that I'm being talked
down to at the Job Centre and so on.
All that can be done is what I'm doing, but in no way
do I want to end up in a retail or catering job, where stress
levels could reach severe limits and I would end up in a
worse state than I am currently.
You really can't win in this struggle where what appears to
be the easiest option to take, ends up being a fucking nightmare.
It may be an idea to get someone to look at my application
letters and be honest about them, saying what I am doing
wrong and how they should be written.
And if it turns out I'm only capable at demeaning jobs,
I'd rather have swallow lead.
Best to go along with things steadily, and to look in more places
for what I would best be suited to.
I seem to have convinced myself that the way to get over
the struggles of not finding a job is to put it to one side
and focus more on things that prevent me from being depressed
and put me permanently at leisure.
If that's the right way to describe it.
In the long run, it means that all my anxieties turn
into an even bigger problem and the only way to get round
it is to deal with it and tell someone that I'm being talked
down to at the Job Centre and so on.
All that can be done is what I'm doing, but in no way
do I want to end up in a retail or catering job, where stress
levels could reach severe limits and I would end up in a
worse state than I am currently.
You really can't win in this struggle where what appears to
be the easiest option to take, ends up being a fucking nightmare.
It may be an idea to get someone to look at my application
letters and be honest about them, saying what I am doing
wrong and how they should be written.
And if it turns out I'm only capable at demeaning jobs,
I'd rather have swallow lead.
Best to go along with things steadily, and to look in more places
for what I would best be suited to.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
My September Stopover In The City
After much waiting, here's my take on what happened over
the last two days in London.
First on the agenda was the CMP reunion where there was some
sort of jokey battle to decide who was the winner in terms of
those attending from each year.
Those attending included Pippa, Holly, Stedders, Chris Jones,
Emilie from Zo and Rosie Andrews' year, and a late arrival
for Alejandra who's only recently moved back over to London
and submitted a short for Sundance.
The "winners" were the year above me when starting uni which
included Chris and Stedders but it was all a bit of fun really.
The biggest surprise was when two of the lecturers turned
up including the great man that is Adam Hodgkins.
It was great to catch up on things and as always,
we spent a lot of time going on about music, and
vintage television such as The Clangers and so on.
Also making an appearance was Graham Evans, who I had
met before on campus, but he was superb and revealed
that he had an enthusiasm for the late Charlie Gillett
amongst other related interests.
A few photos from the night itself;
Alongside Pippa ST.
The gentle giant that is James Stedman.
Chris, Becky, Me, Adam, Em, and Stedders.
Em in her wooly poncho.
Chris and Stedders.
Most of Wednesday was spent in many a Spoons in London sipping on the soft alcoholic stuff and reading, whilst in between I went up to Prospects to search for possible jobs.
I also got a few photos which brought a bit of amusement
from my perspective.
Roland Rat's "Ratmobile".
"Sorry, rude word, next question..."
An amusingly named pub near Holborn.
I arrived at the planned destination for Barry's birthday do,
that being the Covent Garden B@1 two hours early, and even
before 7pm it was bloody packed.
I thought there was a downstairs area below, but it was
actually the bogs.
I headed up to Covent Garden tube station where Chris Chilvers
was first to arrive, and we headed up to the Roadhouse
where Stoobs was present on an outing with his colleagues from
The Bath House in Cambridge.
We decided to stick around in the more spacious Roadhouse
and Barry definitely thought the same on arrival.
The birthday boy himself has just moved back to the city
living in Clapham South with fellow countrymen Colin
and Jay and here's hoping he finds a stable money earner
so he can stay in the city.
Also present were Phil Harris, Nana Charlie who I haven't seen
for ages, and one of her mates who used to go to Christ Church
University in Canters and helped out at CSR.
Really lovely fella as well.
Sami stopped over for a short while but headed off pretty
quickly for a meal with her older sister who's tieing the knot
next week.
She may have returned after I headed back to Canters at 10
but I've no idea.
One person who was definitely absent (whilst I was about at
least) was Steven, possibly because he was worried that we'd
all be having a go at Chris Moyles after his rant about
not being paid earlier that morning.
Which we were.
Here's a few more photos from the Roadhouse;
With Stoobs and Sami.
Phil's rather embarrassing birthday present for Barry.
Nana Charlie's welcome appearance.
Overall the night went really well, and everyone seems
convinced it's only the beginning of many more similar
outings in the city.
On returning I managed to finally see the third episode of
This Is England '86.
I'm not going to give too much away, but it was a superb
episode with some strong scenes and most of the loose ends
from last week were resolved.
Still the best TV series I've seen this year,
I reckon one of the major factors to that is that every episode
is different from the last, and the final one looks set to follow
in the same way.
the last two days in London.
First on the agenda was the CMP reunion where there was some
sort of jokey battle to decide who was the winner in terms of
those attending from each year.
Those attending included Pippa, Holly, Stedders, Chris Jones,
Emilie from Zo and Rosie Andrews' year, and a late arrival
for Alejandra who's only recently moved back over to London
and submitted a short for Sundance.
The "winners" were the year above me when starting uni which
included Chris and Stedders but it was all a bit of fun really.
The biggest surprise was when two of the lecturers turned
up including the great man that is Adam Hodgkins.
It was great to catch up on things and as always,
we spent a lot of time going on about music, and
vintage television such as The Clangers and so on.
Also making an appearance was Graham Evans, who I had
met before on campus, but he was superb and revealed
that he had an enthusiasm for the late Charlie Gillett
amongst other related interests.
A few photos from the night itself;
Alongside Pippa ST.
The gentle giant that is James Stedman.
Chris, Becky, Me, Adam, Em, and Stedders.
Em in her wooly poncho.
Chris and Stedders.
Most of Wednesday was spent in many a Spoons in London sipping on the soft alcoholic stuff and reading, whilst in between I went up to Prospects to search for possible jobs.
I also got a few photos which brought a bit of amusement
from my perspective.
Roland Rat's "Ratmobile".
"Sorry, rude word, next question..."
An amusingly named pub near Holborn.
I arrived at the planned destination for Barry's birthday do,
that being the Covent Garden B@1 two hours early, and even
before 7pm it was bloody packed.
I thought there was a downstairs area below, but it was
actually the bogs.
I headed up to Covent Garden tube station where Chris Chilvers
was first to arrive, and we headed up to the Roadhouse
where Stoobs was present on an outing with his colleagues from
The Bath House in Cambridge.
We decided to stick around in the more spacious Roadhouse
and Barry definitely thought the same on arrival.
The birthday boy himself has just moved back to the city
living in Clapham South with fellow countrymen Colin
and Jay and here's hoping he finds a stable money earner
so he can stay in the city.
Also present were Phil Harris, Nana Charlie who I haven't seen
for ages, and one of her mates who used to go to Christ Church
University in Canters and helped out at CSR.
Really lovely fella as well.
Sami stopped over for a short while but headed off pretty
quickly for a meal with her older sister who's tieing the knot
next week.
She may have returned after I headed back to Canters at 10
but I've no idea.
One person who was definitely absent (whilst I was about at
least) was Steven, possibly because he was worried that we'd
all be having a go at Chris Moyles after his rant about
not being paid earlier that morning.
Which we were.
Here's a few more photos from the Roadhouse;
With Stoobs and Sami.
Phil's rather embarrassing birthday present for Barry.
Nana Charlie's welcome appearance.
Overall the night went really well, and everyone seems
convinced it's only the beginning of many more similar
outings in the city.
On returning I managed to finally see the third episode of
This Is England '86.
I'm not going to give too much away, but it was a superb
episode with some strong scenes and most of the loose ends
from last week were resolved.
Still the best TV series I've seen this year,
I reckon one of the major factors to that is that every episode
is different from the last, and the final one looks set to follow
in the same way.
"If You Gotta Run, Run From Home"
I've just got back from a superb two nights in London.
As I'm rather exhausted and dying to see the third episode of TIE86,
I'll tell all about it, and upload the photos tomorrow.
However it was good to see all the CMP lot on Tuesday, with
a few surprise guests, and the radio people earlier tonight and
especially Barry who's birthday we were celebrating.
Being without access to a computer all day, I've missed out
on what appears to be an infamous rant by Chris Moyles
yesterday morning, whingeing about the BBC not paying him
three months wages or whatever.
The glass houses analogy springs to mind, although it's
worth noting that Moyles used to share a flat with the man
who's now the temper tantrum throwing CEO of Global Radio,
Ashley Tabor, so I can understand why that's the case.
After I've listened to it tomorrow, I'll have more of an understanding.
As I type I've got Noah And The Whale's "Love Of An Orchestra"
and Sigur Ros's 2007 arrangement of "Staraful" stuck in my head
and I'm pretty sure they'll provide the perfect recovery after tonight's
drunken antics.
Then again, the taxi I went back in from the East station
to home, had Trevor Nelson on Radio 2 switched on with
a bit of Herb Alpert to finish things off with, which suited
the mood perfectly.
Overall it was an amazing stay with those who will remain
my best friends for quite a while.
As I'm rather exhausted and dying to see the third episode of TIE86,
I'll tell all about it, and upload the photos tomorrow.
However it was good to see all the CMP lot on Tuesday, with
a few surprise guests, and the radio people earlier tonight and
especially Barry who's birthday we were celebrating.
Being without access to a computer all day, I've missed out
on what appears to be an infamous rant by Chris Moyles
yesterday morning, whingeing about the BBC not paying him
three months wages or whatever.
The glass houses analogy springs to mind, although it's
worth noting that Moyles used to share a flat with the man
who's now the temper tantrum throwing CEO of Global Radio,
Ashley Tabor, so I can understand why that's the case.
After I've listened to it tomorrow, I'll have more of an understanding.
As I type I've got Noah And The Whale's "Love Of An Orchestra"
and Sigur Ros's 2007 arrangement of "Staraful" stuck in my head
and I'm pretty sure they'll provide the perfect recovery after tonight's
drunken antics.
Then again, the taxi I went back in from the East station
to home, had Trevor Nelson on Radio 2 switched on with
a bit of Herb Alpert to finish things off with, which suited
the mood perfectly.
Overall it was an amazing stay with those who will remain
my best friends for quite a while.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Two Nights Of Boozing
Rather nice day in Canterbury and here's hoping it stays that
way in London tomorrow.
In just a few hours I'll be heading up there for the CMP Reunion
taking place near Oxford Street at a pub that I think I've
been to before, on an outing with Pippa, Holly, and Martin Perret.
The place that Barry's planning to take us out to tomorrow
is in Covent Garden, and it will be good to see how he's been
getting on taking into account that I haven't seen him since
his last birthday do.
One topic however will be off limits, that being tonight's episode
of This Is England '86 as it's quite an important one this week
with a key character from the film making a return appearance.
I'm sure you all know who it is.
That said, it will be first on my viewing list when I get back late
tomorrow night, provided that I'm in one piece of course.
way in London tomorrow.
In just a few hours I'll be heading up there for the CMP Reunion
taking place near Oxford Street at a pub that I think I've
been to before, on an outing with Pippa, Holly, and Martin Perret.
The place that Barry's planning to take us out to tomorrow
is in Covent Garden, and it will be good to see how he's been
getting on taking into account that I haven't seen him since
his last birthday do.
One topic however will be off limits, that being tonight's episode
of This Is England '86 as it's quite an important one this week
with a key character from the film making a return appearance.
I'm sure you all know who it is.
That said, it will be first on my viewing list when I get back late
tomorrow night, provided that I'm in one piece of course.
Monday, September 20, 2010
"Uvavu"
Just before lying down, I thought it would be worth mentioning
Cheryl Cole's new single that appears to have divided opinions.
Well I say that, most of the public think it's appalling.
On hearing it first time round, well the first 10 seconds
before clicking the back button on my browser, I thought
it sounded very similar to the "Club Singer" version of
a KC And The Sunshine Band song, from Shooting Stars
as heard below;
Personally I prefer the above example to the ex WAG.
And to think the same man in the above audio also had
a number one single.
Good Night.
Cheryl Cole's new single that appears to have divided opinions.
Well I say that, most of the public think it's appalling.
On hearing it first time round, well the first 10 seconds
before clicking the back button on my browser, I thought
it sounded very similar to the "Club Singer" version of
a KC And The Sunshine Band song, from Shooting Stars
as heard below;
Personally I prefer the above example to the ex WAG.
And to think the same man in the above audio also had
a number one single.
Good Night.
"Just Like The Girls In The Videos"
A new word has entered my vocabulary after tonight's episode
of The Inbetweeners; "pukisssing".
I'll say no more.
The main plot of this week's episode involved Simon desperately
trying to get his hands on drugs to impress a girl he fancied,
leading to inevitable consequences.
I've noticed in the credits that XFM's Marsha Shandur is responsible
for all the music that gets featured in the series proving that
not only does she know her stand up acts, but also good
contemporary indie music and all.
It was quite interesting this week as two of the tracks played were
by acts who have appeared as guests on Smoke Radio.
The most obvious being The Hoosiers at the beginning of part 2,
but a more subtle one was a tune called "Rock 'N' Roll"
by Remi Nicole.
This was a superb offering by a female black vocalist getting across
that she doesn't want to be musically typecast.
I seem to remember Remi being really hungover on arriving at
the studios on a Saturday lunchtime, due to being the support
act for Amy Winehouse on her tour.
I wasn't present myself of course as it was during the semester
when I was absent.
In a year I would much prefer to forget.
On a tenuous note, tonight's Only Connect on BBC Four featured
a team of radio addicts, or to be more "pacific" (wink wink)
three people addicted to BBC Radio 4, including one who listened
solely for the Archers theme tune.
They ended up winning against an all female team so it will
be interesting to see how they fare in the quarter finals.
Tomorrow sees me making my visit to London tomorrow
for a short stay although I'm rather nervous about getting the late
train back to Canterbury on the Wednesday.
However the one thing I'll keep in mind is that at least I'm not
Peter Cooper.
Our almost alumni has just been promoted to managing the Odeon
in Esher in Surrey and unfortunately for him, has to make a painstaking
train journey from there up to Central London and then
up to Aylesbury.
It wasn't helped tonight with the Bakerloo Line being shut down
and all.
I'd best tread carefully near the tubes tomorrow evening.
of The Inbetweeners; "pukisssing".
I'll say no more.
The main plot of this week's episode involved Simon desperately
trying to get his hands on drugs to impress a girl he fancied,
leading to inevitable consequences.
I've noticed in the credits that XFM's Marsha Shandur is responsible
for all the music that gets featured in the series proving that
not only does she know her stand up acts, but also good
contemporary indie music and all.
It was quite interesting this week as two of the tracks played were
by acts who have appeared as guests on Smoke Radio.
The most obvious being The Hoosiers at the beginning of part 2,
but a more subtle one was a tune called "Rock 'N' Roll"
by Remi Nicole.
This was a superb offering by a female black vocalist getting across
that she doesn't want to be musically typecast.
I seem to remember Remi being really hungover on arriving at
the studios on a Saturday lunchtime, due to being the support
act for Amy Winehouse on her tour.
I wasn't present myself of course as it was during the semester
when I was absent.
In a year I would much prefer to forget.
On a tenuous note, tonight's Only Connect on BBC Four featured
a team of radio addicts, or to be more "pacific" (wink wink)
three people addicted to BBC Radio 4, including one who listened
solely for the Archers theme tune.
They ended up winning against an all female team so it will
be interesting to see how they fare in the quarter finals.
Tomorrow sees me making my visit to London tomorrow
for a short stay although I'm rather nervous about getting the late
train back to Canterbury on the Wednesday.
However the one thing I'll keep in mind is that at least I'm not
Peter Cooper.
Our almost alumni has just been promoted to managing the Odeon
in Esher in Surrey and unfortunately for him, has to make a painstaking
train journey from there up to Central London and then
up to Aylesbury.
It wasn't helped tonight with the Bakerloo Line being shut down
and all.
I'd best tread carefully near the tubes tomorrow evening.
Television Terrors
It was a pretty late one yesterday, much of it spent re-viewing
Channel 4's list of "The 100 Greatest TV Moments From Hell"
originally shown 10 years ago.
Well, almost, as it was a revised list shown three years later with
a few extra additions such as the toe curling clearance by David Blaine
on GMTV in 2001.
However it was another infamous moment on breakfast television
from the same year, that I wasn't to sure about where they showed a clip of
Richard Bacon on Channel 4's Big Breakfast accidentally pushing
a child over resulting in him bursting into tears.
This for me was the show's nail in the coffin as it had been on decline
for months and with the possibility of the axe imminent,
this didn't do any favours.
Quite a lot of infamous moments were left in, notably Ted Rogers'
3-2-1 at number 10 which for me has to be one of the worst
entertainment shows to grace our screens.
Paul Ross's comments on the clues had me laughing.
There were quite a lot of dodgy sitcoms which made fun of foreigners
too, such as "Mind Your Language", and "Love Thy Neighbour"
both written by Vince Powell.
No relation to Enoch I'm guessing?
The best moment in the countdown was the incident at the
1993 British Comedy Awards where Julian Clary shocked
those watching at home with his comment about Norman Lamont.
What made me angry however was that one of the talking heads
Gary Bushell, was slating it, and earlier on he was condoning
the many racist sitcoms that were featured.
But then again he's a twat.
If they were to re-do this countdown in 2010, there's so many
additions that could be included such as ITV's failed attempts to
fill Paul O'Grady's timeslot with Sharon Osborne and Antony Cottton
being given their own chat shows, Hole In The Wall which speaks
for itself, "The Door" from earlier this year that was a poor imitation
of The Crystal Maze, and most of all Paddy McGuinness's "Take Me Out"
which for me has to be the worst TV show I've seen this year.
No likey? Fuck off.
Channel 4's list of "The 100 Greatest TV Moments From Hell"
originally shown 10 years ago.
Well, almost, as it was a revised list shown three years later with
a few extra additions such as the toe curling clearance by David Blaine
on GMTV in 2001.
However it was another infamous moment on breakfast television
from the same year, that I wasn't to sure about where they showed a clip of
Richard Bacon on Channel 4's Big Breakfast accidentally pushing
a child over resulting in him bursting into tears.
This for me was the show's nail in the coffin as it had been on decline
for months and with the possibility of the axe imminent,
this didn't do any favours.
Quite a lot of infamous moments were left in, notably Ted Rogers'
3-2-1 at number 10 which for me has to be one of the worst
entertainment shows to grace our screens.
Paul Ross's comments on the clues had me laughing.
There were quite a lot of dodgy sitcoms which made fun of foreigners
too, such as "Mind Your Language", and "Love Thy Neighbour"
both written by Vince Powell.
No relation to Enoch I'm guessing?
The best moment in the countdown was the incident at the
1993 British Comedy Awards where Julian Clary shocked
those watching at home with his comment about Norman Lamont.
What made me angry however was that one of the talking heads
Gary Bushell, was slating it, and earlier on he was condoning
the many racist sitcoms that were featured.
But then again he's a twat.
If they were to re-do this countdown in 2010, there's so many
additions that could be included such as ITV's failed attempts to
fill Paul O'Grady's timeslot with Sharon Osborne and Antony Cottton
being given their own chat shows, Hole In The Wall which speaks
for itself, "The Door" from earlier this year that was a poor imitation
of The Crystal Maze, and most of all Paddy McGuinness's "Take Me Out"
which for me has to be the worst TV show I've seen this year.
No likey? Fuck off.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Barely Human
I may have missed tonight's X Factor, but I've managed
to hear the new single by last year's "winner" Joe McElderry.
I'd describe it as a song that the Killers rejected and if
McElderly thinks he'll be successful in the route he chooses to
take, two words; Leon Jackson.
Tonight must have been the most busy the University has been
when I've done a radio show, as the Freshers are arriving and quite
a lot of events were going on in the bars on campus and
at the Venue nightclub.
Of course I couldn't actually get into them due to not having
any student ID.
Andrew the station manager was present and had brought
along his friend who I haven't seen for a few months and is
lucky enough to live with a few chess players.
We had quite a lengthy chat about This Is England '86
although I'll be delayed this week in seeing the third episode.
That's because I'm making another visit to London
where on the first night I'll be meeting up with a few old
faces at the CMP Reunion, and on Wednesday Barry is meant
to be making a return to London so a few of us will be
having a few drinks.
It will be good to see him again and I'm hoping
he gets more than a little tipsy.
Finally, a user on Twitter has pointed out that "Pope Benedict"
is an anagram of "Epic Bent Pedo".
Pretty much says it all.
to hear the new single by last year's "winner" Joe McElderry.
I'd describe it as a song that the Killers rejected and if
McElderly thinks he'll be successful in the route he chooses to
take, two words; Leon Jackson.
Tonight must have been the most busy the University has been
when I've done a radio show, as the Freshers are arriving and quite
a lot of events were going on in the bars on campus and
at the Venue nightclub.
Of course I couldn't actually get into them due to not having
any student ID.
Andrew the station manager was present and had brought
along his friend who I haven't seen for a few months and is
lucky enough to live with a few chess players.
We had quite a lengthy chat about This Is England '86
although I'll be delayed this week in seeing the third episode.
That's because I'm making another visit to London
where on the first night I'll be meeting up with a few old
faces at the CMP Reunion, and on Wednesday Barry is meant
to be making a return to London so a few of us will be
having a few drinks.
It will be good to see him again and I'm hoping
he gets more than a little tipsy.
Finally, a user on Twitter has pointed out that "Pope Benedict"
is an anagram of "Epic Bent Pedo".
Pretty much says it all.
Comedy You Simply Can't Write
QVC was always a popular target of Victor Lewis-Smith
with many of their presenters subjected to his wind up
phone calls live on air, and in some cases long standing
feuds, namely former Anglia TV announcer Paul Lavers.
However this clip from Alright On The Night takes it to
a new level, where the man who I suppose you could call
VLS's protege, ends up making an unscheduled appearance
on the much maligned shopping channel.
This is simply fantastic, although I'm rather surprised as to
why the white Laurence Fishburne hasn't drawn attention
to this on his own show as it's hilarious.
And whilst QVC is essentially advertising, I reckon
the clip says it all.
with many of their presenters subjected to his wind up
phone calls live on air, and in some cases long standing
feuds, namely former Anglia TV announcer Paul Lavers.
However this clip from Alright On The Night takes it to
a new level, where the man who I suppose you could call
VLS's protege, ends up making an unscheduled appearance
on the much maligned shopping channel.
This is simply fantastic, although I'm rather surprised as to
why the white Laurence Fishburne hasn't drawn attention
to this on his own show as it's hilarious.
And whilst QVC is essentially advertising, I reckon
the clip says it all.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Moderately Funny
The Comedy Roadshow trundled back onto our TV screens
for a long awaited second series with fairly potent line up to commence
things.
My favourite turns this week were Milton Jones who's got
a unique stage presence, and Daniel Sloss who at 19 years old
proved that there were acts younger than Kevin Bridges who
can provide the laughs.
I wasn't too sure about Craig Campbell, who reminded me
of wrestling veteran Rowdy Roddy Piper with his rather shouty
routine, but it was good to see Kevin Bridges as the headline act
who was first brought to my attention on this very show.
One of McIntyre's own gags struck a chord with regards to trailing
his show during Casualty by being wheeled in on a hospital bed and
making a shameless plug.
Well if Graham Norton could interfere with an episode of Doctor Who,
then it shouldn't do McIntyre any harm.
I'm rather peeved about missing tomorrow night's X Factor
due to it being on at the same time as my radio show.
That's something I'm going to have to get used to over
the next few months but judging by the way things are going
at the station, it probably won't be too long before I'm back
in front of the television on Sunday nights.
We'll see who's facing the music.
for a long awaited second series with fairly potent line up to commence
things.
My favourite turns this week were Milton Jones who's got
a unique stage presence, and Daniel Sloss who at 19 years old
proved that there were acts younger than Kevin Bridges who
can provide the laughs.
I wasn't too sure about Craig Campbell, who reminded me
of wrestling veteran Rowdy Roddy Piper with his rather shouty
routine, but it was good to see Kevin Bridges as the headline act
who was first brought to my attention on this very show.
One of McIntyre's own gags struck a chord with regards to trailing
his show during Casualty by being wheeled in on a hospital bed and
making a shameless plug.
Well if Graham Norton could interfere with an episode of Doctor Who,
then it shouldn't do McIntyre any harm.
I'm rather peeved about missing tomorrow night's X Factor
due to it being on at the same time as my radio show.
That's something I'm going to have to get used to over
the next few months but judging by the way things are going
at the station, it probably won't be too long before I'm back
in front of the television on Sunday nights.
We'll see who's facing the music.
"All The People On The Left"
It was quite a special day yesterday as it was exactly 5 years
since I moved to London and into Harrow Halls.
And what better way to celebrate than by seeing Matt Bianco
performing at what has sort of become my second home in
the city, that being the Jazz Cafe and it was a lot better
than the Ronnie Scott's gig due to the fact that there was a
lot more room to dance.
I had a chat with a few fans before the gig,
one of whom had travelled all the way from Preston
and joked that he was the "third Mark" from the band.
It turned out that he had been to quite a few gigs I was
present at including Incognito in Autumn 2006 where Jeffrey Daniel
from Shalamar was in attendance, and on a lower note the
rather dodgy gig at the Camden Centre in April 2009.
The band themselves gave a superb set which included an arrangement
of the Joey Negro remix of their song "Half A Minute".
Mark was pleased that they did it in that style as the original's
more or less established as former lead singer Basia's song
and she still performs it at her solo gigs.
It was also good to see Tony Remy, without the talking guitar
but still on form as always, where before the set, he revealed
that he was absent from the Down To The Bone gig last month
following a row with the rest of the band over political issues.
Welcome to my world Tony...
I didn't bring my camera with me although if I had, I would have got
a photo with lead singer Mark Reilly who was a top man throughout
although I would have been more excited about meeting their
lovely female backing vocalist Hazel Sim.
The stayover at the Clink Hostel this time round was bloody awful.
I couldn't close one of the windows in my room, meaning I had
to put up with a lot of noise from outside, and when that had
quietened down, I then had a problem with some very rude and
antisocial American tourists.
Nothing nasty happened though, and despite having to return there
on Tuesday after the CMP reunion I hope it will be quieter.
Luckily, for the majority of the gigs I'm going to in Nov,
Pippa and Holly are letting me stay over at theirs.
since I moved to London and into Harrow Halls.
And what better way to celebrate than by seeing Matt Bianco
performing at what has sort of become my second home in
the city, that being the Jazz Cafe and it was a lot better
than the Ronnie Scott's gig due to the fact that there was a
lot more room to dance.
I had a chat with a few fans before the gig,
one of whom had travelled all the way from Preston
and joked that he was the "third Mark" from the band.
It turned out that he had been to quite a few gigs I was
present at including Incognito in Autumn 2006 where Jeffrey Daniel
from Shalamar was in attendance, and on a lower note the
rather dodgy gig at the Camden Centre in April 2009.
The band themselves gave a superb set which included an arrangement
of the Joey Negro remix of their song "Half A Minute".
Mark was pleased that they did it in that style as the original's
more or less established as former lead singer Basia's song
and she still performs it at her solo gigs.
It was also good to see Tony Remy, without the talking guitar
but still on form as always, where before the set, he revealed
that he was absent from the Down To The Bone gig last month
following a row with the rest of the band over political issues.
Welcome to my world Tony...
I didn't bring my camera with me although if I had, I would have got
a photo with lead singer Mark Reilly who was a top man throughout
although I would have been more excited about meeting their
lovely female backing vocalist Hazel Sim.
The stayover at the Clink Hostel this time round was bloody awful.
I couldn't close one of the windows in my room, meaning I had
to put up with a lot of noise from outside, and when that had
quietened down, I then had a problem with some very rude and
antisocial American tourists.
Nothing nasty happened though, and despite having to return there
on Tuesday after the CMP reunion I hope it will be quieter.
Luckily, for the majority of the gigs I'm going to in Nov,
Pippa and Holly are letting me stay over at theirs.
Friday, September 17, 2010
A Long Recovery
It would only be right for me to apologise to those who were
upset about my comments about those who I graduated with.
I understand you genuinely seem to care about my whereabouts
and what I do, but I'm going through a difficult time and until
I move back to London, I don't think I will fully recover.
I also don't like to make myself look bigger than I am
and when I've done so in the past it's lead to bad circumstances.
It's just that I find it easier to get on with people who don't
base their entire lives around a noisy irritable box and
although one of radio's standout points is being personal,
it can be personal in a negative way too, and with mainstream content
I feel as if I'm being talked down to or told to laugh
at stuff which isn't funny.
However a more important point that was raised was that
those in the year I graduated in have been a lot more courteous
than those in my old year doing the radio course.
As for my own views on this week's developments, I make
no apologies whatsoever for saying what I think about bad
people management.
To borrow an item from the mid 90s late night Channel 4 sleaze fest
"The Girlie Show" I've no hesitation of making Ashley Tabor
my Wanker Of The Week.
This is nothing to to with the Capital rebranding, but something a lot
worse.
Everyone is intelligent to understand that rebrandings and cutbacks
have to take place due to monetary reasons, and to come out
with a comment like Ta-Bore's in public is a clear reminder
of the saying "praise in public and criticise in private".
He could have just explained the financial side of things with
regards to cutting back on presenters, but no, he ended up
inadvertently insulting them.
It's not a nasty or vicious comment as such, but I doubt Tabor had any
idea how badly it would go down.
I really hope that this gets discussed on Trevor Dann's RadioTalk podcast
which has been getting even better recently with presenters
guesting alongside those who work behind the scenes.
I'd love it if they got one of those in the firing line from Galaxy
or Trent FM etc to be sat alongside Ta-Bore on a future podcast
and things really would start to get interesting.
I'd imagine Tabor would defend himself in a not too dissimilar
manner to Ron Atkinson.
upset about my comments about those who I graduated with.
I understand you genuinely seem to care about my whereabouts
and what I do, but I'm going through a difficult time and until
I move back to London, I don't think I will fully recover.
I also don't like to make myself look bigger than I am
and when I've done so in the past it's lead to bad circumstances.
It's just that I find it easier to get on with people who don't
base their entire lives around a noisy irritable box and
although one of radio's standout points is being personal,
it can be personal in a negative way too, and with mainstream content
I feel as if I'm being talked down to or told to laugh
at stuff which isn't funny.
However a more important point that was raised was that
those in the year I graduated in have been a lot more courteous
than those in my old year doing the radio course.
As for my own views on this week's developments, I make
no apologies whatsoever for saying what I think about bad
people management.
To borrow an item from the mid 90s late night Channel 4 sleaze fest
"The Girlie Show" I've no hesitation of making Ashley Tabor
my Wanker Of The Week.
This is nothing to to with the Capital rebranding, but something a lot
worse.
Everyone is intelligent to understand that rebrandings and cutbacks
have to take place due to monetary reasons, and to come out
with a comment like Ta-Bore's in public is a clear reminder
of the saying "praise in public and criticise in private".
He could have just explained the financial side of things with
regards to cutting back on presenters, but no, he ended up
inadvertently insulting them.
It's not a nasty or vicious comment as such, but I doubt Tabor had any
idea how badly it would go down.
I really hope that this gets discussed on Trevor Dann's RadioTalk podcast
which has been getting even better recently with presenters
guesting alongside those who work behind the scenes.
I'd love it if they got one of those in the firing line from Galaxy
or Trent FM etc to be sat alongside Ta-Bore on a future podcast
and things really would start to get interesting.
I'd imagine Tabor would defend himself in a not too dissimilar
manner to Ron Atkinson.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
School Of Mock
Despite the first of quite a few absences for Russell Howard,
Mock The Week was on form with a new face to the show in the form
of Miles Jupp who's appeared on quite a few Radio 4 comedy
shows such as The News Quiz.
And although you wouldn't recognise it from his face,
he also used to play Archie The Inventor in Balamory
many years ago.
Highlights this week included Ed Byrne's brilliant comment
on alcohol being banned from the Pope's Hyde Park visit
but not Catholic priests, and the suggestions in the last round
for "Things You Wouldn't Hear In A Kid's Film".
It was missing the wit of Russell a tiny bit, but that's possible
assurance that the third series of Good News will be on form
continuing to stand out amongst the rest of the crap on BBC Three.
Lee Nelson anyone?
8 Out Of 10 Cats comes back as a regular series to Channel 4
tomorrow night although I'll miss it due to the Matt Bianco
concert.
At least I'll have something to watch on Saturday, in case
the new series of Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
proves to be sub-standard.
It just seems to lack the amusement and established nature
of Live At The Apollo, although hopefully that will be back as
well before Christmas.
Tomorrow's going to be a fun night for certain.
Mock The Week was on form with a new face to the show in the form
of Miles Jupp who's appeared on quite a few Radio 4 comedy
shows such as The News Quiz.
And although you wouldn't recognise it from his face,
he also used to play Archie The Inventor in Balamory
many years ago.
Highlights this week included Ed Byrne's brilliant comment
on alcohol being banned from the Pope's Hyde Park visit
but not Catholic priests, and the suggestions in the last round
for "Things You Wouldn't Hear In A Kid's Film".
It was missing the wit of Russell a tiny bit, but that's possible
assurance that the third series of Good News will be on form
continuing to stand out amongst the rest of the crap on BBC Three.
Lee Nelson anyone?
8 Out Of 10 Cats comes back as a regular series to Channel 4
tomorrow night although I'll miss it due to the Matt Bianco
concert.
At least I'll have something to watch on Saturday, in case
the new series of Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
proves to be sub-standard.
It just seems to lack the amusement and established nature
of Live At The Apollo, although hopefully that will be back as
well before Christmas.
Tomorrow's going to be a fun night for certain.
"Chuck Your Radio Down On The Ground"
It's probably a good idea to with regards to the Ta-Bore issue
to give another perspective on that stupid quote on presenters
which has been referred to by many as his "Gerald Ratner moment".
Here's radio consultant Paul Easton's take on it, and further
proof that Ashley Tabor is to people management, what either
Gary Glitter would be to running a children's play centre,
or Nick Griffin if he was put in charge of organising
this year's MOBO Awards.
It's also made Richard Park, regardless of his flaws
go up in my estimation and he has a vision of talented
broadcasters to come.
I like the title of the blog post too, referring to the original
1973 Capital Radio jingle package by Blue Mink,
as referenced here a couple of days ago.
I'll probably do some sort of Heart Attack blog post
around Christmas with some of the old jingles from
the departing stations, and those who've seen my comments
on Twitter can probably guess what title I'll be using instead
of "Heart Attack".
Further proof that Global in my honest opinion, is one
of the most fucked up radio companies in the UK when
it comes to money and management.
to give another perspective on that stupid quote on presenters
which has been referred to by many as his "Gerald Ratner moment".
Here's radio consultant Paul Easton's take on it, and further
proof that Ashley Tabor is to people management, what either
Gary Glitter would be to running a children's play centre,
or Nick Griffin if he was put in charge of organising
this year's MOBO Awards.
It's also made Richard Park, regardless of his flaws
go up in my estimation and he has a vision of talented
broadcasters to come.
I like the title of the blog post too, referring to the original
1973 Capital Radio jingle package by Blue Mink,
as referenced here a couple of days ago.
I'll probably do some sort of Heart Attack blog post
around Christmas with some of the old jingles from
the departing stations, and those who've seen my comments
on Twitter can probably guess what title I'll be using instead
of "Heart Attack".
Further proof that Global in my honest opinion, is one
of the most fucked up radio companies in the UK when
it comes to money and management.
"Winter's Coming, Gotta Get A Job Real Soon"
This week is just speeding by for no real reason.
Tomorrow night I shall be heading over to London to see Matt Bianco
perform at the Jazz Cafe, almost a year since seeing their brilliant
set at Ronnie Scott's.
I'm rather gutted that I haven't arranged anything else to coincide
but that's not a problem with the CMP reunion taking place next week.
I'm pretty certain that both visits however will reduce me from
being an angry old bastard.
Today's going to be pretty empty on the other hand and I'm
longing for some sort of pill that will have me asleep for
24 hours.
I guess the best thing to do until tomorrow is not to just go
looking for aggravation.
Tomorrow night I shall be heading over to London to see Matt Bianco
perform at the Jazz Cafe, almost a year since seeing their brilliant
set at Ronnie Scott's.
I'm rather gutted that I haven't arranged anything else to coincide
but that's not a problem with the CMP reunion taking place next week.
I'm pretty certain that both visits however will reduce me from
being an angry old bastard.
Today's going to be pretty empty on the other hand and I'm
longing for some sort of pill that will have me asleep for
24 hours.
I guess the best thing to do until tomorrow is not to just go
looking for aggravation.
An Attempt To Let It Go
Well the good news is that I've not gone crazy all
of a sudden.
Although if anything drives me up the wall, the only way
to get over it is to write it down, whilst trying not to
directly upset anyone personally.
But then again you can't please everyone.
The tricky part is finding where the line is between being honest
about things without making them sound nasty.
But then again, as radio from my perspective comes across
as a nasty business especially with the comments I've seen from
management figures recently, it's hard for me to be open minded.
The honest truth is that I'm not corporate minded, and don't want
myself to be in a position where I think I'm better than anyone
else from a presenting point of view.
The harsh reality is that most of those in the year I graduated in
and below seemed to think that they outshone everyone else and
will look back at their time running student radio fondly,
whereas I found it discouraging.
I really want to move on, but when there's people you know
who's negatives outshine the positives it can be really hard.
They could be thinking the same about me, but the honest
truth is that we'll never agree with each other full on.
The reason I'm making a big deal about it, is that there was
no aggro at all in my first year at University, and it seems that
I have to live my life through it for no good reason.
I'll let it go sometime but I really don't want to work
in an industry where it seems a lot of people act
like petty children.
The way for me to get over it is to spend time outside
job searching by indulging, and it seems that I get told off
for my personal interests too.
Fair enough I may go on about them, but at least those
in my first year of University could understand that it's
what drove me into being more outgoing.
You can never please every single person.
of a sudden.
Although if anything drives me up the wall, the only way
to get over it is to write it down, whilst trying not to
directly upset anyone personally.
But then again you can't please everyone.
The tricky part is finding where the line is between being honest
about things without making them sound nasty.
But then again, as radio from my perspective comes across
as a nasty business especially with the comments I've seen from
management figures recently, it's hard for me to be open minded.
The honest truth is that I'm not corporate minded, and don't want
myself to be in a position where I think I'm better than anyone
else from a presenting point of view.
The harsh reality is that most of those in the year I graduated in
and below seemed to think that they outshone everyone else and
will look back at their time running student radio fondly,
whereas I found it discouraging.
I really want to move on, but when there's people you know
who's negatives outshine the positives it can be really hard.
They could be thinking the same about me, but the honest
truth is that we'll never agree with each other full on.
The reason I'm making a big deal about it, is that there was
no aggro at all in my first year at University, and it seems that
I have to live my life through it for no good reason.
I'll let it go sometime but I really don't want to work
in an industry where it seems a lot of people act
like petty children.
The way for me to get over it is to spend time outside
job searching by indulging, and it seems that I get told off
for my personal interests too.
Fair enough I may go on about them, but at least those
in my first year of University could understand that it's
what drove me into being more outgoing.
You can never please every single person.
Another Potential Episode?
It's a weird world we're living in.
It appears that in the radio industry you can be celebrated
for peddling out mediocrity, and barely changing anything for
long lengths of time, to the point of what would normally be
considered as "outstaying your welcome".
Whereas if I come up with a load of "innovative" ideas all in
one go under a sudden daze of inspiration, I get sent to
a mental psychiatric hospital and not let go until I'm both depressed
and easily scared by uncertain circumstances.
Three years later and what started out as Stewart seeking help
for a radio demo turned into an argument involving myself and a few other
ex BAMS radio students.
Some other users found it hilarious so I'm glad we're being
entertaining, if not intentionally.
I've mentioned it several times before, but in my first year at
Westminster and helping out at Smoke, there were no barriers at all
and no bitchiness.
Well, not what I saw anyway.
Every week we seemed to be taking things to the next level
and then in my second year it just stopped and until my final year
nothing really happened that was exciting or creative.
Yes, a lot of those in my year have given me a lot of time and encouragement
but the truth is, that whenever we go out in London, it always
ends up in an argument where I get told off for being stuck in the past
and am shoved a load of corporate bollocks down my throat about
how things are now.
It's as if they want to change me, which is never going to happen.
I think it would be an ideal time for a "trial separation",
as this really does feel like a failed marriage to an extent
with the graduation being the equivalent of a wedding ceremony,
and things slowly falling down since.
Yet I've never had an argument with Pippa, Joe, Holly, Martin, Stedders etc
although that's probably because I've got no opinionated views
on 8-bit tunes, viral videos and so on.
Well, apart from the fact that quite a lot of them are very funny
if examples such as the sweded Jurassic Park are anything to go by.
If a discussion about radio with insiders can get really bitchy,
is it any surprise as to why Ashley Ta-Bore is throwing his toys
out of the pram?
I can remember alumni Mark Jackson once telling me that I wouldn't
want to work at somewhere like Radio 1 as there were a load of wankers
behind the scenes.
Sadly I think he could he right.
Luckily he's enjoying his job as an air traffic controller in Belgium
and I'm hoping that I can find something that pays well, and allows
me to have a social life.
Because let's face it, in radio you could end up working at stupid
o'clock and being paid wages lower than someone who works in
the local Co-Op.
What started off as a enjoyable enthusiasm, has ended up
as continuous kick in the balls.
I'll get over it but I do need a lot of time to take stuff in
before things get potentially worse.
Having said that, most of the nurses in St Martin's Hospital
were really lovely so it probably wouldn't be all bad.
It appears that in the radio industry you can be celebrated
for peddling out mediocrity, and barely changing anything for
long lengths of time, to the point of what would normally be
considered as "outstaying your welcome".
Whereas if I come up with a load of "innovative" ideas all in
one go under a sudden daze of inspiration, I get sent to
a mental psychiatric hospital and not let go until I'm both depressed
and easily scared by uncertain circumstances.
Three years later and what started out as Stewart seeking help
for a radio demo turned into an argument involving myself and a few other
ex BAMS radio students.
Some other users found it hilarious so I'm glad we're being
entertaining, if not intentionally.
I've mentioned it several times before, but in my first year at
Westminster and helping out at Smoke, there were no barriers at all
and no bitchiness.
Well, not what I saw anyway.
Every week we seemed to be taking things to the next level
and then in my second year it just stopped and until my final year
nothing really happened that was exciting or creative.
Yes, a lot of those in my year have given me a lot of time and encouragement
but the truth is, that whenever we go out in London, it always
ends up in an argument where I get told off for being stuck in the past
and am shoved a load of corporate bollocks down my throat about
how things are now.
It's as if they want to change me, which is never going to happen.
I think it would be an ideal time for a "trial separation",
as this really does feel like a failed marriage to an extent
with the graduation being the equivalent of a wedding ceremony,
and things slowly falling down since.
Yet I've never had an argument with Pippa, Joe, Holly, Martin, Stedders etc
although that's probably because I've got no opinionated views
on 8-bit tunes, viral videos and so on.
Well, apart from the fact that quite a lot of them are very funny
if examples such as the sweded Jurassic Park are anything to go by.
If a discussion about radio with insiders can get really bitchy,
is it any surprise as to why Ashley Ta-Bore is throwing his toys
out of the pram?
I can remember alumni Mark Jackson once telling me that I wouldn't
want to work at somewhere like Radio 1 as there were a load of wankers
behind the scenes.
Sadly I think he could he right.
Luckily he's enjoying his job as an air traffic controller in Belgium
and I'm hoping that I can find something that pays well, and allows
me to have a social life.
Because let's face it, in radio you could end up working at stupid
o'clock and being paid wages lower than someone who works in
the local Co-Op.
What started off as a enjoyable enthusiasm, has ended up
as continuous kick in the balls.
I'll get over it but I do need a lot of time to take stuff in
before things get potentially worse.
Having said that, most of the nurses in St Martin's Hospital
were really lovely so it probably wouldn't be all bad.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Blasting The Beeb
I'll let this topic go at some point, but as long as Ashley Tabor
is coming out with ridiculous statements, I will always have something
to blog about them.
Following that ill-informed comment on presenters yesterday, Ta-Bore
has now started whingeing at the BBC, wanting them to invest their
own money in improving the audio quality of DAB transmitters, in order
for him and Global to start prioritising their stations on the platform
over FM.
Here's the Media Guardian article, and I think I've found a photo
that I can add to my dartboard.
Fair enough with regards to him not wanting to invest Global's money
because they're surviving on borrowed cash.
It just goes to the show that the statements Ta-Bore is coming
out with are about as intelligent as the listeners who the tripe
provided by his big brands are aimed at.
With the possible exception of Choice and XFM, but they're
aiming towards an audience who wouldn't necessarily have
their programmes on as background.
A case well proven when XFM made the mistake of cutting it's
daytime presenters a few years ago.
A very intelligently written post on the Digital Spy forums
has illustrated this well, from a man who in fact used to work with
Tabor, and has asked whether he'll be able to apologise without bodyguards
to those who will be getting the drop.
And if he does need minders, then maybe it will teach him
to consider being less of a c**t.
is coming out with ridiculous statements, I will always have something
to blog about them.
Following that ill-informed comment on presenters yesterday, Ta-Bore
has now started whingeing at the BBC, wanting them to invest their
own money in improving the audio quality of DAB transmitters, in order
for him and Global to start prioritising their stations on the platform
over FM.
Here's the Media Guardian article, and I think I've found a photo
that I can add to my dartboard.
Fair enough with regards to him not wanting to invest Global's money
because they're surviving on borrowed cash.
It just goes to the show that the statements Ta-Bore is coming
out with are about as intelligent as the listeners who the tripe
provided by his big brands are aimed at.
With the possible exception of Choice and XFM, but they're
aiming towards an audience who wouldn't necessarily have
their programmes on as background.
A case well proven when XFM made the mistake of cutting it's
daytime presenters a few years ago.
A very intelligently written post on the Digital Spy forums
has illustrated this well, from a man who in fact used to work with
Tabor, and has asked whether he'll be able to apologise without bodyguards
to those who will be getting the drop.
And if he does need minders, then maybe it will teach him
to consider being less of a c**t.
Uneasy In 86
Last night's This Is England '86 was on top form once again ending
at a point where you really want to know what happens
to the characters and their own individual situations.
I'm hoping that there won't be any unresolved loose ends
but the good thing about that is the possibility of
a series set in 1990 as Meadows has hinted earlier on.
It's good that they've focused on a lot of the other characters
and not just Shaun in the series, and with Combo making a
comeback next week it looks set to get even more interesting.
Having said that, I won't get to see next week's episode when
transmitted as I'm in London that night where I've been invited
to a CMP reunion where it's likely that Pippa, Holly and
Stedders will be in attendance amongst a few others who
I haven't seen for a long time.
To be honest, I'm certain that a lot of people there will be
fans of the series, especially those who were in the third year CMP
when I arrived at University.
at a point where you really want to know what happens
to the characters and their own individual situations.
I'm hoping that there won't be any unresolved loose ends
but the good thing about that is the possibility of
a series set in 1990 as Meadows has hinted earlier on.
It's good that they've focused on a lot of the other characters
and not just Shaun in the series, and with Combo making a
comeback next week it looks set to get even more interesting.
Having said that, I won't get to see next week's episode when
transmitted as I'm in London that night where I've been invited
to a CMP reunion where it's likely that Pippa, Holly and
Stedders will be in attendance amongst a few others who
I haven't seen for a long time.
To be honest, I'm certain that a lot of people there will be
fans of the series, especially those who were in the third year CMP
when I arrived at University.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Global Tosspots
I'd sort of thought I become more relaxed about Global's
mass rebrand of the Galaxy stations.
It wouldn't affect me as a listener, and the stations that are getting
rebranded have like many others been on a long decline.
That was until I saw this disgraceful comment from chief executive
Ashley Tabor when interviewed about the changes and reasoning
for networked programming;
"I'm afraid to say there are not 33 good mid-morning presenters
in this country and there are not another 33 good afternoon presenters.
I wish there were, but there aren't."
I can say with conviction that those are the words of
a first class corporate thunderc**t.
I would say world class but no, that would probably go alongside
the hypocrisy of the Global brand.
The jocks who currently present in the respective timeslots
may as well just hand in their notices in protest as a way
of telling Ta-Bore that if he wants to run a national station,
then why wait until fucking January?
And that's not me having a go at said presenters.
It's just another petty comment directed at the man who
outside his radio killing duties co-composed the theme tune
to The X Factor.
To think a tune like that would need more than one composer.
I wonder what bit he was responsible for? The repetition?
For me that quote just represents the arrogance of companies
such as Global.
I should know, I've had many an argument with those who
will defend the bile they're peddling out on the airwaves.
Let's face it I'm not cut out for the masses.
Well from a radio point of view anyway and I don't want
to be converted.
To borrow a line from former Radio 1 presenter Mike Smith;
"It's a bugger of a business"
mass rebrand of the Galaxy stations.
It wouldn't affect me as a listener, and the stations that are getting
rebranded have like many others been on a long decline.
That was until I saw this disgraceful comment from chief executive
Ashley Tabor when interviewed about the changes and reasoning
for networked programming;
"I'm afraid to say there are not 33 good mid-morning presenters
in this country and there are not another 33 good afternoon presenters.
I wish there were, but there aren't."
I can say with conviction that those are the words of
a first class corporate thunderc**t.
I would say world class but no, that would probably go alongside
the hypocrisy of the Global brand.
The jocks who currently present in the respective timeslots
may as well just hand in their notices in protest as a way
of telling Ta-Bore that if he wants to run a national station,
then why wait until fucking January?
And that's not me having a go at said presenters.
It's just another petty comment directed at the man who
outside his radio killing duties co-composed the theme tune
to The X Factor.
To think a tune like that would need more than one composer.
I wonder what bit he was responsible for? The repetition?
For me that quote just represents the arrogance of companies
such as Global.
I should know, I've had many an argument with those who
will defend the bile they're peddling out on the airwaves.
Let's face it I'm not cut out for the masses.
Well from a radio point of view anyway and I don't want
to be converted.
To borrow a line from former Radio 1 presenter Mike Smith;
"It's a bugger of a business"
Yet Another Departure
It now appears that Jay Hunt wants to join the increasing
success story that is Channel 4, as it's been announced
that she's leaving her position as Controller of BBC 1.
BBC News Article
I wouldn't say that anything memorable has really happened
during her tenure, in terms of innovative new shows,
unless you count those with idiots falling into water.
To be fair she did take over the job at a rather bad
time for the BBC with her predecessor being the man
being placed in the centre of a row about a mis-edited trailer
involving the Queen.
The nearest to a crime that Jay Hunt made as controller
was commissioning Graham Norton's "Totally Saturday".
No time like the present, and tonight's viewing will once
again be based solely on that channel (and it's sister stations)
with The Daily Show, Celebrity Come Dine With Me, and of course
part 2 of This Is England '86.
With entertainment such as this, is it any surprise
that radio content is in decline?
success story that is Channel 4, as it's been announced
that she's leaving her position as Controller of BBC 1.
BBC News Article
I wouldn't say that anything memorable has really happened
during her tenure, in terms of innovative new shows,
unless you count those with idiots falling into water.
To be fair she did take over the job at a rather bad
time for the BBC with her predecessor being the man
being placed in the centre of a row about a mis-edited trailer
involving the Queen.
The nearest to a crime that Jay Hunt made as controller
was commissioning Graham Norton's "Totally Saturday".
No time like the present, and tonight's viewing will once
again be based solely on that channel (and it's sister stations)
with The Daily Show, Celebrity Come Dine With Me, and of course
part 2 of This Is England '86.
With entertainment such as this, is it any surprise
that radio content is in decline?
The Inbetween Entertainers
Further proof that Channel 4 has got even better since the demise
of Big Brother was shown yesterday with the brilliant first
episode of The Inbetweeners series 3.
Well, technically it was on E4 but it's on Channel 4 this Friday.
Without giving too much away, there were some hilarious lines
in the opening scene in the car, and the bit that everyone
was talking about was the scene with Simon trying
to avoid getting an erection during the fashion show,
only for something a lot worse to happen.
This will be the final series which seems like the right time
to end, although there's going to be a film spin off
set in Malia which I'm really looking forward to.
Personally this series defecates all over the rubbish
on BBC Switch, namely their attempt at a sitcom
"Off The Hook" which I was infamous enough
to have a 2 second appearance in.
No wonder the strand's getting dropped.
With the much awaited second episode of "This Is England '86"
tonight, we really are being treated to a fair bit of great
telly at the moment.
of Big Brother was shown yesterday with the brilliant first
episode of The Inbetweeners series 3.
Well, technically it was on E4 but it's on Channel 4 this Friday.
Without giving too much away, there were some hilarious lines
in the opening scene in the car, and the bit that everyone
was talking about was the scene with Simon trying
to avoid getting an erection during the fashion show,
only for something a lot worse to happen.
This will be the final series which seems like the right time
to end, although there's going to be a film spin off
set in Malia which I'm really looking forward to.
Personally this series defecates all over the rubbish
on BBC Switch, namely their attempt at a sitcom
"Off The Hook" which I was infamous enough
to have a 2 second appearance in.
No wonder the strand's getting dropped.
With the much awaited second episode of "This Is England '86"
tonight, we really are being treated to a fair bit of great
telly at the moment.
Monday, September 13, 2010
"Resistance Is OFCOM"
I'm sure you can work out what the title is insinuating.
As expected the news of Global Radio's latest umbrella
vehicle has taken over Twitter in the last two hours
and the majority of responses doesn't appear to be in favour.
Matty ID has used it as an opportunity to bring up his year's
visit to Global's Leicester Square HQ during the Music Radio module
on the course where from what I've heard, the speakers were just
using every opportunity to make childish jibes against the BBC.
In Matty's own words, it was the equivalent of Manchester City
saying they were stronger than Manchester United.
I forgot when typing my last post that Capital will be making it's
way over to Kent on DAB as well, as Galaxy took over the slot
formerly owned by Chill last year.
One of the main reasons I am wanting to return to London as Chill
was really good accompaniment when in bed at night, and it's not
really the best idea to have it streaming from my computer all night.
The biggest annoyance on an overall perspective if I'm being honest,
is that none of the competing stations in most markets are doing anything
to make themselves sound different to the Heart stations.
KMFM in my neck of the woods aim towards a very similar
demographic and the on-air imaging style is very identical
and barely inspiring.
Let's face it, radio's a business these days, full of corporate tosspots
and although I've featured it on the blog before, one song sums the
state up perfectly;
"Profit" by The Omega Tribe.
I think that gets everything off my chest.
Good Night.
As expected the news of Global Radio's latest umbrella
vehicle has taken over Twitter in the last two hours
and the majority of responses doesn't appear to be in favour.
Matty ID has used it as an opportunity to bring up his year's
visit to Global's Leicester Square HQ during the Music Radio module
on the course where from what I've heard, the speakers were just
using every opportunity to make childish jibes against the BBC.
In Matty's own words, it was the equivalent of Manchester City
saying they were stronger than Manchester United.
I forgot when typing my last post that Capital will be making it's
way over to Kent on DAB as well, as Galaxy took over the slot
formerly owned by Chill last year.
One of the main reasons I am wanting to return to London as Chill
was really good accompaniment when in bed at night, and it's not
really the best idea to have it streaming from my computer all night.
The biggest annoyance on an overall perspective if I'm being honest,
is that none of the competing stations in most markets are doing anything
to make themselves sound different to the Heart stations.
KMFM in my neck of the woods aim towards a very similar
demographic and the on-air imaging style is very identical
and barely inspiring.
Let's face it, radio's a business these days, full of corporate tosspots
and although I've featured it on the blog before, one song sums the
state up perfectly;
"Profit" by The Omega Tribe.
I think that gets everything off my chest.
Good Night.
"Isn't It Good To Know"
Yet another major development has arisen in the continuing
Allen/Tabor radio consolidation saga.
It's been announced that from the 3rd of January 2011
all the Galaxy stations will be re-branding as Capital FM
with programmes being broadcast from London with the
exception of breakfast and drive.
Radio Today article
The rebranding also extends to Leicester Sound, Trent FM
in Nottingham, Ram FM in Derby, and Red Dragon FM in Cardiff
and South Wales which seems to be the only location
where the Capital brand name would actually work.
I particuarly feel sorry for those in the Southampton area
who have already had Power FM rebrand to Galaxy
and two years later it's... well, a Lonnie Gordon song
springs to mind....
It's hard for me to comment as from my point of view, Capital
has been on a downwards spiral over the last 10 years
with the high profile departures of Tarrant and Neil Fox
being obvious signs that things haven't been going too well
in the Leicester Square building.
It all went downhill when they fell into the trap of
trying to directly imitate their competitors by developing
a younger sound to compete with Kiss 100.
In fact I can remember an ex Capital journalism now at
1Xtra who I won't mention by name, stating in an e-mail
that on his departure from the station a couple of years ago
that it was in a worse state than it was on his arrival.
Personally I think Global Radio as a brand in theory shares
a lot in common with "Miss Universe" as in spite of the name,
they haven't really had any success outside the UK!
As I type (and being without the technology to view it myself)
the story is being covered on Sky News where a Digital Spy
user has compared the graphic of the Capital logos
over the UK to that of the opening titles to Dad's Army.
Which wouldn't be inaccurate provided the titles had the Nazi flags
crossing into the United Kingdom.
The worst thing is that using such a brand is shooting yourself
in the foot, because it's an big giveaway as to where
the content is coming from.
Actually can you call it content?...
Allen/Tabor radio consolidation saga.
It's been announced that from the 3rd of January 2011
all the Galaxy stations will be re-branding as Capital FM
with programmes being broadcast from London with the
exception of breakfast and drive.
Radio Today article
The rebranding also extends to Leicester Sound, Trent FM
in Nottingham, Ram FM in Derby, and Red Dragon FM in Cardiff
and South Wales which seems to be the only location
where the Capital brand name would actually work.
I particuarly feel sorry for those in the Southampton area
who have already had Power FM rebrand to Galaxy
and two years later it's... well, a Lonnie Gordon song
springs to mind....
It's hard for me to comment as from my point of view, Capital
has been on a downwards spiral over the last 10 years
with the high profile departures of Tarrant and Neil Fox
being obvious signs that things haven't been going too well
in the Leicester Square building.
It all went downhill when they fell into the trap of
trying to directly imitate their competitors by developing
a younger sound to compete with Kiss 100.
In fact I can remember an ex Capital journalism now at
1Xtra who I won't mention by name, stating in an e-mail
that on his departure from the station a couple of years ago
that it was in a worse state than it was on his arrival.
Personally I think Global Radio as a brand in theory shares
a lot in common with "Miss Universe" as in spite of the name,
they haven't really had any success outside the UK!
As I type (and being without the technology to view it myself)
the story is being covered on Sky News where a Digital Spy
user has compared the graphic of the Capital logos
over the UK to that of the opening titles to Dad's Army.
Which wouldn't be inaccurate provided the titles had the Nazi flags
crossing into the United Kingdom.
The worst thing is that using such a brand is shooting yourself
in the foot, because it's an big giveaway as to where
the content is coming from.
Actually can you call it content?...
"Ban The Broom!"
Not too memorable today in terms of being productive.
Just a visit to the job centre, and being persuaded to apply for jobs
that weren't in areas of which I'd originally agreed to.
Elsewhere I've spent most of the afternoon having a look at the
many gems in the Broom Cupboard Collection added to
the BBC Online Archive to celebrate 25 years of self contained
presentation for younger viewers.
Plenty of gems with my personal favourites including Debbie Flint
having to fill in during one of her last links on summer mornings
in 1986, Phillip Schofield interviewed by now Radio 4 announcer
Susan Rae on Open Air a year later, and Nicholas Witchell
expressing his fondness for Edd the Duck on "Auntie's TV Favourites"
as hosted by Steve Wright.
Also included is footage never seen on television with "Josephine" D'arby
auditioning as a presenter with help from Toby Anstis and Andi Peters.
I'd imagine she got a lot of mail that was meant to be sent to
Diane-Louise Jordan.
Whilst Josie's audition was never seen on TV, Zoe Ball had the infamy
of being shown her own CBBC audition by Lenny Henry
on Comic Relief 2001 where she attempted to "rap" her way out of a link.
Definitely an ideal showcase of an era when presenters really
seemed to enjoy presenting for children.
Just a visit to the job centre, and being persuaded to apply for jobs
that weren't in areas of which I'd originally agreed to.
Elsewhere I've spent most of the afternoon having a look at the
many gems in the Broom Cupboard Collection added to
the BBC Online Archive to celebrate 25 years of self contained
presentation for younger viewers.
Plenty of gems with my personal favourites including Debbie Flint
having to fill in during one of her last links on summer mornings
in 1986, Phillip Schofield interviewed by now Radio 4 announcer
Susan Rae on Open Air a year later, and Nicholas Witchell
expressing his fondness for Edd the Duck on "Auntie's TV Favourites"
as hosted by Steve Wright.
Also included is footage never seen on television with "Josephine" D'arby
auditioning as a presenter with help from Toby Anstis and Andi Peters.
I'd imagine she got a lot of mail that was meant to be sent to
Diane-Louise Jordan.
Whilst Josie's audition was never seen on TV, Zoe Ball had the infamy
of being shown her own CBBC audition by Lenny Henry
on Comic Relief 2001 where she attempted to "rap" her way out of a link.
Definitely an ideal showcase of an era when presenters really
seemed to enjoy presenting for children.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Mindless Mirth
I managed to find a short animation that I've been searching for
for many years, "Push Comes To Shove" as directed by Bill Plympton
in 1991.
Many will probably recognise the two characters from a series
of ads for Nik Naks in 1993 which I used to find hilarious
because of the slogan, but the orginal short is superb for
slightly different reasons.
Namely the surprise ending, which works brilliantly to
the same sort of levels that the Scott Tennorman episode
of South Park did.
The two characters also made their way onto a CD-ROM
in 1995 called "Take Your Bet Shot" designed to relieve
stress for those who found it hard to work with uncompromising
bosses.
I'd love to get hold of a copy of that disc and imagine that
that either of those two fellas are
one of my ex colleages from ASDA, or anyone who made my
time at University a fucking nightmare.
Anyone from the UWSU past or present reading this, you've
been virtually warned.
for many years, "Push Comes To Shove" as directed by Bill Plympton
in 1991.
Many will probably recognise the two characters from a series
of ads for Nik Naks in 1993 which I used to find hilarious
because of the slogan, but the orginal short is superb for
slightly different reasons.
Namely the surprise ending, which works brilliantly to
the same sort of levels that the Scott Tennorman episode
of South Park did.
The two characters also made their way onto a CD-ROM
in 1995 called "Take Your Bet Shot" designed to relieve
stress for those who found it hard to work with uncompromising
bosses.
I'd love to get hold of a copy of that disc and imagine that
that either of those two fellas are
one of my ex colleages from ASDA, or anyone who made my
time at University a fucking nightmare.
Anyone from the UWSU past or present reading this, you've
been virtually warned.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
"Saturday Is Switch Off Day"
I was going to mention this anyway, but have been prompted further
by a very good article on the BBC News website, questioning the loss
of traditional live Saturday morning television.
Paul Smith, the former head of CBBC presentation
(and Gordon The Gopher's literal right hand man) pretty much
echoes his points made on the superb documentary
"When The Stranglers Met Roland Rat" on how the popstars
of the day never took Saturday mornings for granted, as it
would be the perfect shop window to increase singles sales ahead
of the charts on Sunday.
I guess the last successful traditional Saturday morning show
was SM:tv Live and it's rather surprising that it's 10 years
since I used to religiously get up to watch the said show
in anticipation.
Notice that to the right of the article there's a list of shows from
both BBC and ITV, and ITV haven't listed any of the shows between
1992 and 1998 and disastrous shows such as "It's Not Just Saturday",
Andi Peters' short lived series "The Noise" and "Tricky".
I still carried on watching Dick & Dom, and MoM
whenever I wasn't working in ASDA, often taping them to watch
when I got back on a day that I was.
Bringing things up to date BBC 2 and the CBBC Channel have launched
a new show called "The Live 'N' Deadly Roadshow" hosted by
Steve Backshaw bringing a nature theme to Saturday mornings,
hosted on location each week and lasting just one hour.
Why they would stick this on in the autumn is beyond me as surely
the idea of a travelling outdoor show would be better suited to
the summer, if examples such as Tyne Tees's Get Fresh, and Ghost Train
were anything to go by.
That show's been responsible for TMi moving to Fridays
and what I saw of it yesterday, it wasn't too bad, with the highlight
being the Deal Or No Deal esque game "Inflation" where contestants
have to bet when a giant balloon will burst.
That's not to say that Sam and Mark have reduced their habit
of shouting for no apparent reason proving that they must have
graduated from the Vernon Kay school of TV presenting.
I just don't like how TV entertainment and music has been segmented
in the present day.
The supposed "rule" meaning that if you like Girls Aloud
or The Wanted, you can't like acts such as Biffy Clyro or
Florence And The Machine.
Utter nonsense.
Many have commented on the fact that such shows
on Saturdays brought viewers of all ages together and now
the content has been split into separate strands, it's
resulted in the programmes themselves simply going down the toilet.
Is it no surprise that BBC Switch is getting dropped next year?
Finally to quote Rufus Hound, with the number of cooking shows
that have taken the place of entertainment shows on Saturday mornings
it really isn't surprising that more children are putting on weight.
by a very good article on the BBC News website, questioning the loss
of traditional live Saturday morning television.
Paul Smith, the former head of CBBC presentation
(and Gordon The Gopher's literal right hand man) pretty much
echoes his points made on the superb documentary
"When The Stranglers Met Roland Rat" on how the popstars
of the day never took Saturday mornings for granted, as it
would be the perfect shop window to increase singles sales ahead
of the charts on Sunday.
I guess the last successful traditional Saturday morning show
was SM:tv Live and it's rather surprising that it's 10 years
since I used to religiously get up to watch the said show
in anticipation.
Notice that to the right of the article there's a list of shows from
both BBC and ITV, and ITV haven't listed any of the shows between
1992 and 1998 and disastrous shows such as "It's Not Just Saturday",
Andi Peters' short lived series "The Noise" and "Tricky".
I still carried on watching Dick & Dom, and MoM
whenever I wasn't working in ASDA, often taping them to watch
when I got back on a day that I was.
Bringing things up to date BBC 2 and the CBBC Channel have launched
a new show called "The Live 'N' Deadly Roadshow" hosted by
Steve Backshaw bringing a nature theme to Saturday mornings,
hosted on location each week and lasting just one hour.
Why they would stick this on in the autumn is beyond me as surely
the idea of a travelling outdoor show would be better suited to
the summer, if examples such as Tyne Tees's Get Fresh, and Ghost Train
were anything to go by.
That show's been responsible for TMi moving to Fridays
and what I saw of it yesterday, it wasn't too bad, with the highlight
being the Deal Or No Deal esque game "Inflation" where contestants
have to bet when a giant balloon will burst.
That's not to say that Sam and Mark have reduced their habit
of shouting for no apparent reason proving that they must have
graduated from the Vernon Kay school of TV presenting.
I just don't like how TV entertainment and music has been segmented
in the present day.
The supposed "rule" meaning that if you like Girls Aloud
or The Wanted, you can't like acts such as Biffy Clyro or
Florence And The Machine.
Utter nonsense.
Many have commented on the fact that such shows
on Saturdays brought viewers of all ages together and now
the content has been split into separate strands, it's
resulted in the programmes themselves simply going down the toilet.
Is it no surprise that BBC Switch is getting dropped next year?
Finally to quote Rufus Hound, with the number of cooking shows
that have taken the place of entertainment shows on Saturday mornings
it really isn't surprising that more children are putting on weight.
Good. Fucking. Riddance.
Television has become normal again.
And even if the show returns to Channel 5, it will just be
another nail to the coffin of shame and embarrassment
associated with the channel alongside Night Fever and
Live From Studio Five.
Seriously though, tonight just shot by and unbelievably
there wasn't a dull bit in tonight's Big Brother finale.
It was brilliantly structured with various inserts, specially
made items, highlights packages and the house band
"Brassroots" in the final hour made the show for me by
just knowing when to come in by performing all the stings,
underscores and walk on music for the housemates as they
exited the house.
The Jade Goody VT regardless of anyone's (including my own)
opinion on the woman was done really well and it was
only right that Davina acknowledged her as the true
Ultimate Housemate as no other BB contestant has shot to that
level of notoriety and sustained it for such a length of time.
And although I've been scathing about the housemates since
the departure of Josie, Brian really was the true winner and I
did my best to put him being not as good as Ant & Dec hosting
SMTV to one side tonight.
I didn't break down so unfortunately no one will be getting
a new vehicle, but I really felt it was appropriate for the final part
of the live show to be solely dedicated to Davina as she stands
out unlike a lot of television presenters, with Big Brother well
and truly being what she was best at.
No wonder most of her other shows bombed.
It was definitely reflected in the 8 Out Of 10 Cats special
as after they revealed her as what the public would miss most
about the show, there were no jokes about her.
That's not to say that Carr and co didn't provide any laughs at
all as I was in hysterics over Brian Belo's "train toilet troubles"
and Charlie Brooker's rant about punters coming to the house
just to jeer the contestants.
A witty but well handled end to a night of solid viewing.
With all the speculation of Big Brother moving to another channel,
I think it would be a shame to ruin what was a well made climax
by dragging the show into deeper oblivion (as if such a thing was possible).
However to sum it up, it's more of a relief that the whole thing
has come to an end as at it's height I was fucking fed up with
so many people going on about it and never seeing the long term
appeal.
And by "long term" I mean really long.
But you can never deny that it helped to shape television over the
last decade and show everyone else the way to go,
especially in technical innovation.
If there was ever a television show that defined the 2000s,
Big Brother will always be the first show that will spring to mind.
That said, Captain Sensible's words ring true;
We're glad it's all over.
And even if the show returns to Channel 5, it will just be
another nail to the coffin of shame and embarrassment
associated with the channel alongside Night Fever and
Live From Studio Five.
Seriously though, tonight just shot by and unbelievably
there wasn't a dull bit in tonight's Big Brother finale.
It was brilliantly structured with various inserts, specially
made items, highlights packages and the house band
"Brassroots" in the final hour made the show for me by
just knowing when to come in by performing all the stings,
underscores and walk on music for the housemates as they
exited the house.
The Jade Goody VT regardless of anyone's (including my own)
opinion on the woman was done really well and it was
only right that Davina acknowledged her as the true
Ultimate Housemate as no other BB contestant has shot to that
level of notoriety and sustained it for such a length of time.
And although I've been scathing about the housemates since
the departure of Josie, Brian really was the true winner and I
did my best to put him being not as good as Ant & Dec hosting
SMTV to one side tonight.
I didn't break down so unfortunately no one will be getting
a new vehicle, but I really felt it was appropriate for the final part
of the live show to be solely dedicated to Davina as she stands
out unlike a lot of television presenters, with Big Brother well
and truly being what she was best at.
No wonder most of her other shows bombed.
It was definitely reflected in the 8 Out Of 10 Cats special
as after they revealed her as what the public would miss most
about the show, there were no jokes about her.
That's not to say that Carr and co didn't provide any laughs at
all as I was in hysterics over Brian Belo's "train toilet troubles"
and Charlie Brooker's rant about punters coming to the house
just to jeer the contestants.
A witty but well handled end to a night of solid viewing.
With all the speculation of Big Brother moving to another channel,
I think it would be a shame to ruin what was a well made climax
by dragging the show into deeper oblivion (as if such a thing was possible).
However to sum it up, it's more of a relief that the whole thing
has come to an end as at it's height I was fucking fed up with
so many people going on about it and never seeing the long term
appeal.
And by "long term" I mean really long.
But you can never deny that it helped to shape television over the
last decade and show everyone else the way to go,
especially in technical innovation.
If there was ever a television show that defined the 2000s,
Big Brother will always be the first show that will spring to mind.
That said, Captain Sensible's words ring true;
We're glad it's all over.
Friday, September 10, 2010
"R. I. Push Off"
The similarities between the final Big Brother and the last ever
Big Breakfast are getting even closer, with a return for the
two aliens Zig & Zag on the final Big Brother's Little Brother on E4.
It's easy to forget that in series 1 "Little Brother" was a
rather poor insert involving hamsters and guinea pigs in
minature surroundings similar to that of the house.
Overall BBLB was the sister show that started them all,
and probably the strongest where arguably Dermot O'Leary
made the show his own.
He was certainly given more chance to be himself than he is
on X Factor.
As for tonight, I have two bottles of Bacardi Breezer sorted out
to hopefully get me through what will be a rather painful
and cringey four hours of television viewing.
I like to subject myself now and again, but knowing that this
will be the final time (on a respectable television channel at least)
such bilge will be broadcast, it's something quite special.
And if I end up breaking down, I will buy all the readers of a blog
a Mercedes each.
Big Breakfast are getting even closer, with a return for the
two aliens Zig & Zag on the final Big Brother's Little Brother on E4.
It's easy to forget that in series 1 "Little Brother" was a
rather poor insert involving hamsters and guinea pigs in
minature surroundings similar to that of the house.
Overall BBLB was the sister show that started them all,
and probably the strongest where arguably Dermot O'Leary
made the show his own.
He was certainly given more chance to be himself than he is
on X Factor.
As for tonight, I have two bottles of Bacardi Breezer sorted out
to hopefully get me through what will be a rather painful
and cringey four hours of television viewing.
I like to subject myself now and again, but knowing that this
will be the final time (on a respectable television channel at least)
such bilge will be broadcast, it's something quite special.
And if I end up breaking down, I will buy all the readers of a blog
a Mercedes each.
A New Shade Of Green
Following on from yesterday's celebrations, a new (well almost)
set of idents have been introduced to CBBC giving a bit of a
makeover to the little animation at the end as seen here.
They've still got the sung "#CBBC" so it's not too heavy
a change.
Whilst it's a strong on-screen brand, I will always associate
them with where I saw them first time round, as they were
introduced on Monday the 3rd of September 2007 and
I was still recovering in hospital, and seeing them on the
television in the recreation room was quite a surprise.
The refresh coincides with a special line up for Fridays
on the digital channel where the selling point is the move
to Fridays of TMi, changing it's name to what else?
Sam and Mark's "TMi Friday".
Bearing in mind Chris Evans is just metres away from them
at the ONE Show studio (unless the show is pre-recorded of course)
the double act are treading on hot coals.
I'm also rather disappointed that it's been promoted higher
than the long awaited third series of "The Slammer"
but it shouldn't be too much of a big deal.
Although The Slammer produced by the team behind Dick & Dom
has won a Children's BAFTA for Best Entertainment,
and Sam & Mark ended up losing the Best Presenter category in 2006
to Holly Willoughby which they expressed their bitterness about
on Dale Winton's Hole In The Wall not long after.
You'd wonder whether it's worth holding an awards ceremony solely
for British children's programmes, considering there's hardly any
of them that are worthy these days.
set of idents have been introduced to CBBC giving a bit of a
makeover to the little animation at the end as seen here.
They've still got the sung "#CBBC" so it's not too heavy
a change.
Whilst it's a strong on-screen brand, I will always associate
them with where I saw them first time round, as they were
introduced on Monday the 3rd of September 2007 and
I was still recovering in hospital, and seeing them on the
television in the recreation room was quite a surprise.
The refresh coincides with a special line up for Fridays
on the digital channel where the selling point is the move
to Fridays of TMi, changing it's name to what else?
Sam and Mark's "TMi Friday".
Bearing in mind Chris Evans is just metres away from them
at the ONE Show studio (unless the show is pre-recorded of course)
the double act are treading on hot coals.
I'm also rather disappointed that it's been promoted higher
than the long awaited third series of "The Slammer"
but it shouldn't be too much of a big deal.
Although The Slammer produced by the team behind Dick & Dom
has won a Children's BAFTA for Best Entertainment,
and Sam & Mark ended up losing the Best Presenter category in 2006
to Holly Willoughby which they expressed their bitterness about
on Dale Winton's Hole In The Wall not long after.
You'd wonder whether it's worth holding an awards ceremony solely
for British children's programmes, considering there's hardly any
of them that are worthy these days.
Live In The House For The Final Time
Morning.
Yet another important day for television as tonight Big Brother makes
it's bow.
Chris Moyles has got Davina on the phone this morning, but bearing
in mind I've got to put up with her for the best part of four hours
tonight, I'd rather not hear him lick her bum for the hundredth time.
How she'll hold it all together I've no idea as that show's more or less
kept her in a stable position in television with flop after flop elsewhere.
"Oblivious" anyone?
And with regards to her BBC 1 chat show disaster in 2006, it's interesting
as one of our alumni Steve Jones had tickets for the pilot edition
where he went along with Kim, and Ross T only to be turned down
at the entrance of TVC as they were full up.
The next day, Steve persuaded listeners to his show on Smoke
not to watch the show when it finally went out,
and considering he had quite a few listeners I reckon it had an effect.
With one more day to go however, I still think it's not to late
for the house to implement Frankie Boyle's suggestions for improvement
as made on Mock The Week three years ago.
And considering Ulrika Jonsson's still in the house,
the third option really would be a deserved punishment.
Everything aside, it's going to be quite an event although in my
case I see it as more of a cremation.
Yet another important day for television as tonight Big Brother makes
it's bow.
Chris Moyles has got Davina on the phone this morning, but bearing
in mind I've got to put up with her for the best part of four hours
tonight, I'd rather not hear him lick her bum for the hundredth time.
How she'll hold it all together I've no idea as that show's more or less
kept her in a stable position in television with flop after flop elsewhere.
"Oblivious" anyone?
And with regards to her BBC 1 chat show disaster in 2006, it's interesting
as one of our alumni Steve Jones had tickets for the pilot edition
where he went along with Kim, and Ross T only to be turned down
at the entrance of TVC as they were full up.
The next day, Steve persuaded listeners to his show on Smoke
not to watch the show when it finally went out,
and considering he had quite a few listeners I reckon it had an effect.
With one more day to go however, I still think it's not to late
for the house to implement Frankie Boyle's suggestions for improvement
as made on Mock The Week three years ago.
And considering Ulrika Jonsson's still in the house,
the third option really would be a deserved punishment.
Everything aside, it's going to be quite an event although in my
case I see it as more of a cremation.
Thursday, September 09, 2010
25 Years In Two Minutes
Finally tonight, here's that montage as shown twice
this afternoon on the CBBC Channel looking back at
25 years of the bits between the programmes.
It happens to be the first time I've seen the original Children's BBC
ident from the mid 80s against a yellow background, and whilst
it's rather pacy it's so good that they've acknowledged so many
presenters including those who may not have lasted as long as others.
Time to say goodbye to those reading in Northern Ireland...
And credit should be given to the likes of Greg Taylor, and those who
have kept VHS recordings of the Broom Cupboard as oddly enough
the BBC never kept archive recordings of the links as they were done
as part of presentation.
Really good stuff.
Good Night.
this afternoon on the CBBC Channel looking back at
25 years of the bits between the programmes.
It happens to be the first time I've seen the original Children's BBC
ident from the mid 80s against a yellow background, and whilst
it's rather pacy it's so good that they've acknowledged so many
presenters including those who may not have lasted as long as others.
Time to say goodbye to those reading in Northern Ireland...
And credit should be given to the likes of Greg Taylor, and those who
have kept VHS recordings of the Broom Cupboard as oddly enough
the BBC never kept archive recordings of the links as they were done
as part of presentation.
Really good stuff.
Good Night.
Who Steeeaaayys!
Good night of laughs tonight, and there's still more to come
as I haven't seen the 8OO10C Big Brother Special yet.
However like most things, I feel as if I need to undertake
some sort of chore beforehand, so after the final Big Brother
it will be perfect reward tomorrow night as those on Twitter
are saying it's hilarious.
I've sort of borrowed a tag of fellow Tweeter Bob Kingsley
of referring to the UBB as "Ultimate Big Wankers".
Seeing as Josie left (and probably the right thing to do) there's
just no one in the house who I really think deserves to win
(or leave with dignity at least) meaning the show will end up
departing in the same way as another long running Channel 4
show which also starred Vanessa Feltz with the same initials 8 years ago.
Not even Zig And Zag could save the hopes of Old Ford Lock.
Back to Big Brother and with regards to SomersetBob's nickname
it's a good thing that George Galloway didn't return to the house,
otherwise I'd be referring to the show as "Ultimate Cum Juggling
Thunderc**ts".
Mock The Week came back with style, and although Russell Howard
will be absent over the next few weeks, he definitely came out
with some funny lines with the Wayne Rooney football chant
being a highlight.
Rather reluctantly however, I've removed myself from the
Facebook group as the updates give away the topics
of the week's "Scenes We'd Like To See" and I like to
be surprised when they're revealed on the show itself.
I'm sure I'm not the only one who would treat a comedy panel show
in the same way as the next episode of Doctor Who.
as I haven't seen the 8OO10C Big Brother Special yet.
However like most things, I feel as if I need to undertake
some sort of chore beforehand, so after the final Big Brother
it will be perfect reward tomorrow night as those on Twitter
are saying it's hilarious.
I've sort of borrowed a tag of fellow Tweeter Bob Kingsley
of referring to the UBB as "Ultimate Big Wankers".
Seeing as Josie left (and probably the right thing to do) there's
just no one in the house who I really think deserves to win
(or leave with dignity at least) meaning the show will end up
departing in the same way as another long running Channel 4
show which also starred Vanessa Feltz with the same initials 8 years ago.
Not even Zig And Zag could save the hopes of Old Ford Lock.
Back to Big Brother and with regards to SomersetBob's nickname
it's a good thing that George Galloway didn't return to the house,
otherwise I'd be referring to the show as "Ultimate Cum Juggling
Thunderc**ts".
Mock The Week came back with style, and although Russell Howard
will be absent over the next few weeks, he definitely came out
with some funny lines with the Wayne Rooney football chant
being a highlight.
Rather reluctantly however, I've removed myself from the
Facebook group as the updates give away the topics
of the week's "Scenes We'd Like To See" and I like to
be surprised when they're revealed on the show itself.
I'm sure I'm not the only one who would treat a comedy panel show
in the same way as the next episode of Doctor Who.
Silver Squeaky Socks
An entertaining afternoon was in store on the CBBC Channel
as they were indeed celebrating 25 years of "the bits in between
the programmes".
Presenter Ian Stirling and canine puppet Dodge were
joined in the studio by former Broom Cupboard occupants
Zoe Ball, Toby Anstis and Gordon The Gopher, and
there was a fantastic highlights compilation featuring
many old faces such as Simon Parkin with his Mickey Mouse
impression (done with two vinyl records), Andy Crane,
Andi Peters, Debbie Flint, Phillippa Forrester, Dick & Dom,
Ed & Oucho, Holly Walsh, and even Fearne Cotton.
It almost had me welling up to a point as at a younger age
I was obsessed with them as others were with either Bros
or Take That.
It's an overused statement, but children really are the future
and the BBC really needs to get that round their heads
if television's going to have a future.
With Sam & Mark starting their fifth series of TMi tomorrow,
now moved to Fridays it's worrying as Ant & Dec had left SMTV
at about 3 series in.
What's even more disappointing is that the BBC are resorting
to those who were crap on Saturday mornings to host shows
on Saturday nights ("cough Barrowman") as I could barely
stomach him on Live And Kicking.
Although judging by this clip, neither could Ratz.
And I still swear that's fellow Uni alumni Ross Tilley
in the guise of that cat.
Definitely 25 years of memorable television.
as they were indeed celebrating 25 years of "the bits in between
the programmes".
Presenter Ian Stirling and canine puppet Dodge were
joined in the studio by former Broom Cupboard occupants
Zoe Ball, Toby Anstis and Gordon The Gopher, and
there was a fantastic highlights compilation featuring
many old faces such as Simon Parkin with his Mickey Mouse
impression (done with two vinyl records), Andy Crane,
Andi Peters, Debbie Flint, Phillippa Forrester, Dick & Dom,
Ed & Oucho, Holly Walsh, and even Fearne Cotton.
It almost had me welling up to a point as at a younger age
I was obsessed with them as others were with either Bros
or Take That.
It's an overused statement, but children really are the future
and the BBC really needs to get that round their heads
if television's going to have a future.
With Sam & Mark starting their fifth series of TMi tomorrow,
now moved to Fridays it's worrying as Ant & Dec had left SMTV
at about 3 series in.
What's even more disappointing is that the BBC are resorting
to those who were crap on Saturday mornings to host shows
on Saturday nights ("cough Barrowman") as I could barely
stomach him on Live And Kicking.
Although judging by this clip, neither could Ratz.
And I still swear that's fellow Uni alumni Ross Tilley
in the guise of that cat.
Definitely 25 years of memorable television.
"Oo er Missus!"
This completely slipped my mind until spotting a tweet from one
of the former occupants.
It happens to be 25 years to this day since Phillip Schofield
opened up the Broom Cupboard and introduced a strand of
shows on BBC 1 designated specially for children.
Of course a lot of adults caught on to it as well and
in most cases would anticipate the bits with Phillip
more than the programmes themselves.
The same pretty much continued with successor Andy Crane
and Andi Peters until Toby Anstis was the last incumbent
in the Broom Cupboard where in 1994 presentation studio A
became the permanent home for all Children's BBC broadcasts.
Rather coincidentally, I happened to be rummaging through my
wide array of Youtube videos from the golden era of CBBC
and my favourite had to be this one from 1992, where following
the rather sinister (in my sense anyway) end credits for
Five Children And It, Edd tries to discourage Andi Peters
from picking one of the large "tomatoes" that he's grown.
The ending is brilliantly timed.
One that did tug at the heart was this one from the 21st of July
1994 and "An Afternoon On The Moon" where bizarrely despite
the whole afternoon's programmes being linked by Zoe Ball
and Gaz Top, it's still topped and tailed by Toby in the Broom Cupboard.
The reason it tugs at the heart was because it was one of
the last times I saw the Broom Cupboard being used as throughout August
it was quietly dropped whilst links were presented from the
"Holiday Island" on top of TVC, and in September a new
studio was introduced alongside a rather impressive array
of idents.
The same O/B set was also used in 1995 and on Toby's last day
which was also a celebration for CBBC's 10th anniversary
where plenty of old faces reunited.
Nowadays whilst a similar studio may have returned
for to introduce shows, the presenters are too knowing in
a sarcastic manner, and barely seem to put any effort
into sounding enthusiastic about the shows they are introducing.
Then again, with the exception of "The Slammer", and
"The Sarah Jane Adventures", there's not really any reason
to blame them.
But to sum it up, the Broom Cupboard was the first live
strand with in-vision presenters and the adlibbed nature
was definitely proof that back then you could really do
what you wanted on television.
Even to the point of getting Petula Clark back
in the charts.
It's just a shame that the big bosses have underestimated
younger viewers in the last decade or so, to the point that
children's programmes on the BBC aren't even billed in the
Radio Times properly.
Long live the memories of the Broom Cupboard.
of the former occupants.
It happens to be 25 years to this day since Phillip Schofield
opened up the Broom Cupboard and introduced a strand of
shows on BBC 1 designated specially for children.
Of course a lot of adults caught on to it as well and
in most cases would anticipate the bits with Phillip
more than the programmes themselves.
The same pretty much continued with successor Andy Crane
and Andi Peters until Toby Anstis was the last incumbent
in the Broom Cupboard where in 1994 presentation studio A
became the permanent home for all Children's BBC broadcasts.
Rather coincidentally, I happened to be rummaging through my
wide array of Youtube videos from the golden era of CBBC
and my favourite had to be this one from 1992, where following
the rather sinister (in my sense anyway) end credits for
Five Children And It, Edd tries to discourage Andi Peters
from picking one of the large "tomatoes" that he's grown.
The ending is brilliantly timed.
One that did tug at the heart was this one from the 21st of July
1994 and "An Afternoon On The Moon" where bizarrely despite
the whole afternoon's programmes being linked by Zoe Ball
and Gaz Top, it's still topped and tailed by Toby in the Broom Cupboard.
The reason it tugs at the heart was because it was one of
the last times I saw the Broom Cupboard being used as throughout August
it was quietly dropped whilst links were presented from the
"Holiday Island" on top of TVC, and in September a new
studio was introduced alongside a rather impressive array
of idents.
The same O/B set was also used in 1995 and on Toby's last day
which was also a celebration for CBBC's 10th anniversary
where plenty of old faces reunited.
Nowadays whilst a similar studio may have returned
for to introduce shows, the presenters are too knowing in
a sarcastic manner, and barely seem to put any effort
into sounding enthusiastic about the shows they are introducing.
Then again, with the exception of "The Slammer", and
"The Sarah Jane Adventures", there's not really any reason
to blame them.
But to sum it up, the Broom Cupboard was the first live
strand with in-vision presenters and the adlibbed nature
was definitely proof that back then you could really do
what you wanted on television.
Even to the point of getting Petula Clark back
in the charts.
It's just a shame that the big bosses have underestimated
younger viewers in the last decade or so, to the point that
children's programmes on the BBC aren't even billed in the
Radio Times properly.
Long live the memories of the Broom Cupboard.
"This Round Is For Evryun"
Rather dull outside but there's plenty elsewhere that can occupy
my time.
There appears to be a really good line up tonight on the
8 Out Of 10 Cats Big Brother Special tomorrow
with guests including Josie, Brian Belo, and Charlie Brooker
which probably suggest that the humour really will be
cutting, where hopefully like the other BB specials, a few ex housemates
will be present.
I'll probably see it repeated tomorrow night as over on BBC 2
Mock The Week returns after a break for the Edinburgh
festival where the good news is that Milton Jones is one of the guests.
The comic can be heard in this second rather lengthy compilation
of Scenes We'd Like To See taken all the way back from the
very first show, up to series 7 last year.
It also features other comics who haven't been on the show that often
such as Sandi Toksvig, Sue Perkins, Al Murray, Mark Steel
the late Linda Smith, and John Oliver who was an early regular
on the show before heading over to America and The Daily Show.
Near the end there's also the use of Edmonds'/Evans' gunge siren
which I just slipped to indicate a climax, but it doesn't really interfere
with the gags in such a way.
Here it is and it's recommended that you do not listen
whilst either driving, or having a drink near a computer monitor.
Scenes We'd Like To See 2005-2009 Vol.2
Download Link
Right now however, I'll check the nearest cashpoint to see
whether I've received my money.
my time.
There appears to be a really good line up tonight on the
8 Out Of 10 Cats Big Brother Special tomorrow
with guests including Josie, Brian Belo, and Charlie Brooker
which probably suggest that the humour really will be
cutting, where hopefully like the other BB specials, a few ex housemates
will be present.
I'll probably see it repeated tomorrow night as over on BBC 2
Mock The Week returns after a break for the Edinburgh
festival where the good news is that Milton Jones is one of the guests.
The comic can be heard in this second rather lengthy compilation
of Scenes We'd Like To See taken all the way back from the
very first show, up to series 7 last year.
It also features other comics who haven't been on the show that often
such as Sandi Toksvig, Sue Perkins, Al Murray, Mark Steel
the late Linda Smith, and John Oliver who was an early regular
on the show before heading over to America and The Daily Show.
Near the end there's also the use of Edmonds'/Evans' gunge siren
which I just slipped to indicate a climax, but it doesn't really interfere
with the gags in such a way.
Here it is and it's recommended that you do not listen
whilst either driving, or having a drink near a computer monitor.
Scenes We'd Like To See 2005-2009 Vol.2
Download Link
Right now however, I'll check the nearest cashpoint to see
whether I've received my money.
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Dainty Dining
Another empty day really, although we did go out for a meal at
an Italian restaurant in Canterbury where we've never been before.
It wasn't too bad, although I thought the mince in my rigatoni bol
wasn't great and I went through it rather steadily.
I could have spared myself from telling joke after joke
but it's just the insistence of wanting to share things
that's one of my main weaknesses.
Regardless of whether other people actually find
such humour that funny, but then again it's pretty
difficult to make Mum and Dad laugh.
Only two more days until Big Brother vanishes, and to say
it's going out on top...
Well that would be like me converting to the Conservative Party.
Or going to see an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.
Then again both of those are connected.
an Italian restaurant in Canterbury where we've never been before.
It wasn't too bad, although I thought the mince in my rigatoni bol
wasn't great and I went through it rather steadily.
I could have spared myself from telling joke after joke
but it's just the insistence of wanting to share things
that's one of my main weaknesses.
Regardless of whether other people actually find
such humour that funny, but then again it's pretty
difficult to make Mum and Dad laugh.
Only two more days until Big Brother vanishes, and to say
it's going out on top...
Well that would be like me converting to the Conservative Party.
Or going to see an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.
Then again both of those are connected.
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
"Happy Hour Again" (Or A Loose Sense Of The Lyric)
My mouth was sealed shut for the majority of the first
episode of This Is England '86, pretty much in the same way
when I first saw the film three years ago.
Without trying to give too much detail of the plot,
I simply reckon that it will build up brilliantly
over the next four weeks and allow more depth to be
built round the characters.
One noticeable part is that Mr Sandhu who ran the newsagents
in the original film, now happens to be Cynthia's boss
so it will be interesting to see how things develop between
them with regards to what happened previously.
The only weakness within the first episode was that there
wasn't really enough iconography to illustrate that the drama
was set in 1986 and could have done with a few more
visual codes.
But that certainly didn't get in the way and it's been a very
long time since I've been dying to see the next episode
of a television series, as soon as one episode has finished.
episode of This Is England '86, pretty much in the same way
when I first saw the film three years ago.
Without trying to give too much detail of the plot,
I simply reckon that it will build up brilliantly
over the next four weeks and allow more depth to be
built round the characters.
One noticeable part is that Mr Sandhu who ran the newsagents
in the original film, now happens to be Cynthia's boss
so it will be interesting to see how things develop between
them with regards to what happened previously.
The only weakness within the first episode was that there
wasn't really enough iconography to illustrate that the drama
was set in 1986 and could have done with a few more
visual codes.
But that certainly didn't get in the way and it's been a very
long time since I've been dying to see the next episode
of a television series, as soon as one episode has finished.
Back To '86
Last night's Big Brother themed CDWM was entertaining as expected
with the two Brians, Nadia, and series 10 winner Sophie Reade
providing flamboyant moments within their meals.
Having not seen any of series 10, I never understood until
last night that Sophie was as thick as dogshit, to the point
of not knowing that hamburgers were made out of mincemeat.
And the less said about her main course, the better.
It also revealed how Brian Belo really was obsessed with the series
to the point of having a drawer full of VHS tapes.
11:35 this coming Friday will definitely be a cause for celebration.
As for today, well, tonight sees the arrival of my most anticipated
TV series of the year with This Is England '86.
It's good to see the original cast back, and even Jo Hartley
returns as Shaun's mum, only without the perm.
The again I've always liked her since seeing her as the mother
in Dead Man's Shoes.
After seeing so many tweets about the original film shown
last night on Channel 4, I plan to have a gander, ad-free
this afternoon to add to the excitement.
I very much doubt I'll be disapointed.
with the two Brians, Nadia, and series 10 winner Sophie Reade
providing flamboyant moments within their meals.
Having not seen any of series 10, I never understood until
last night that Sophie was as thick as dogshit, to the point
of not knowing that hamburgers were made out of mincemeat.
And the less said about her main course, the better.
It also revealed how Brian Belo really was obsessed with the series
to the point of having a drawer full of VHS tapes.
11:35 this coming Friday will definitely be a cause for celebration.
As for today, well, tonight sees the arrival of my most anticipated
TV series of the year with This Is England '86.
It's good to see the original cast back, and even Jo Hartley
returns as Shaun's mum, only without the perm.
The again I've always liked her since seeing her as the mother
in Dead Man's Shoes.
After seeing so many tweets about the original film shown
last night on Channel 4, I plan to have a gander, ad-free
this afternoon to add to the excitement.
I very much doubt I'll be disapointed.
Monday, September 06, 2010
Attracted To Intellect
Pretty dreary in Canterbury today with Autumn starting to set in.
In terms of viewing, tonight's pretty solid starting off with
the return to BBC Four of what I can only describe as
"gameshow porn".
Yes, Victoria Coren's back with the fourth series of Only Connect
which as a format itself is pretty watchable too even if
Coren is a bit of a distraction from it all.
After that I'll probably have a gander at the Big Brother themed
Come Dine With me on Channel 4 +1, and if I can manage it
episode 5 of Simon Amstell's "Grandma's House".
I still need to catch up on the last two episodes of "Pete Vs Life"
as well, although that can be done gradually as I don't
have any appointments lined up this week.
Once Big Brother comes to an end, it will probably feel even
more better although Friday looks set to be another solid night
of TV viewing.
In terms of viewing, tonight's pretty solid starting off with
the return to BBC Four of what I can only describe as
"gameshow porn".
Yes, Victoria Coren's back with the fourth series of Only Connect
which as a format itself is pretty watchable too even if
Coren is a bit of a distraction from it all.
After that I'll probably have a gander at the Big Brother themed
Come Dine With me on Channel 4 +1, and if I can manage it
episode 5 of Simon Amstell's "Grandma's House".
I still need to catch up on the last two episodes of "Pete Vs Life"
as well, although that can be done gradually as I don't
have any appointments lined up this week.
Once Big Brother comes to an end, it will probably feel even
more better although Friday looks set to be another solid night
of TV viewing.
A Bed Break Of Sorts
I hope I haven't buggered my body clock after this morning.
I watched the opening of Daybreak as planned and the most notable
part was the studio set with it's large glass windows which aren't
really easy on the eye when it's darker outside.
It certainly caused a bit of a problem when during one of the news bulletins
you could clearly see a reflection of one of the crew members.
Anyway technical stuff out of the way, Adrian and Christine looked
pretty comfortable on their new studio set with the programme
style quite distanced from GMTV, even if the opening titles and
theme tune are identical to those when the predecessor launched.
Content wise was where it failed but that's my own problem
as I don't want to wake up feeling depressed and having Adrian Chiles
as a presenter...
Well that says it all.
There were some elements that I reckon may not last too long
in the tradition of many new shows, one being the "5 A Day"
which was a brief rundown of the main headlines, and reminded me
of the first edition of RI:SE (shudder) where newsreader Chris Rogers
referred to his video wall as "your six pack of news".
I was back in bed by 6:45 meaning I missed the interview
with Tony Blair.
However in all fairness the new programme definitely proved
how dated GMTV was looking towards the end, and seems a lot
more down to earth as well.
That said, I'll be sticking with the radio at this time of day.
I watched the opening of Daybreak as planned and the most notable
part was the studio set with it's large glass windows which aren't
really easy on the eye when it's darker outside.
It certainly caused a bit of a problem when during one of the news bulletins
you could clearly see a reflection of one of the crew members.
Anyway technical stuff out of the way, Adrian and Christine looked
pretty comfortable on their new studio set with the programme
style quite distanced from GMTV, even if the opening titles and
theme tune are identical to those when the predecessor launched.
Content wise was where it failed but that's my own problem
as I don't want to wake up feeling depressed and having Adrian Chiles
as a presenter...
Well that says it all.
There were some elements that I reckon may not last too long
in the tradition of many new shows, one being the "5 A Day"
which was a brief rundown of the main headlines, and reminded me
of the first edition of RI:SE (shudder) where newsreader Chris Rogers
referred to his video wall as "your six pack of news".
I was back in bed by 6:45 meaning I missed the interview
with Tony Blair.
However in all fairness the new programme definitely proved
how dated GMTV was looking towards the end, and seems a lot
more down to earth as well.
That said, I'll be sticking with the radio at this time of day.
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Worth The 6am Start?
It was an alright show tonight.
Back to the traditional structure after the summer and will
probably remain that way up to December where with all
the usual pre-Christmas stresses, everything will be a lot more loose.
I also made use of a few more beds which if I continue to do so
on a regular basis will help punctuate various items
within the show better.
Early start tomorrow, not least because me being the television anorak
will be keen to see how Adrian and Christine fare on their
first Daybreak, with Tony Blair as the first guest.
I'm pretty certain that this will be his first appearance on
breakfast television without Fiona Phillips having her tongue
stuck to his backside.
Even worse is that the equally sycophantic Lorraine Kelly survives.
I had no problem with her as Mike Morris's co-presenter
many moons ago but on her own I just find her hard to watch.
On the plus side Holly and Phil are back hosting This Morning
although there are rumours that Holly's not finding the
experience of hosting TM living up to what she really wants
to be doing, with a possible return to acting being on the cards.
I really hope that if she goes, Phillip goes too, unless of course
they can get Sarah Greene to co-host the show with him.
Once again, I can dream.
Back to the traditional structure after the summer and will
probably remain that way up to December where with all
the usual pre-Christmas stresses, everything will be a lot more loose.
I also made use of a few more beds which if I continue to do so
on a regular basis will help punctuate various items
within the show better.
Early start tomorrow, not least because me being the television anorak
will be keen to see how Adrian and Christine fare on their
first Daybreak, with Tony Blair as the first guest.
I'm pretty certain that this will be his first appearance on
breakfast television without Fiona Phillips having her tongue
stuck to his backside.
Even worse is that the equally sycophantic Lorraine Kelly survives.
I had no problem with her as Mike Morris's co-presenter
many moons ago but on her own I just find her hard to watch.
On the plus side Holly and Phil are back hosting This Morning
although there are rumours that Holly's not finding the
experience of hosting TM living up to what she really wants
to be doing, with a possible return to acting being on the cards.
I really hope that if she goes, Phillip goes too, unless of course
they can get Sarah Greene to co-host the show with him.
Once again, I can dream.
"Oh, Hi Mark"
This provided a bit of light amusement.
From Newgrounds, a point and click version of "The Room"
which shares many conventions of the early 90s role playing games
and enables you to play the part of Johnny in this amusing
send up of of the much lauded cult film.
I haven't played it in full but it looks like an ideal timekiller.
I'll have to go to another screening in London sometime.
From Newgrounds, a point and click version of "The Room"
which shares many conventions of the early 90s role playing games
and enables you to play the part of Johnny in this amusing
send up of of the much lauded cult film.
I haven't played it in full but it looks like an ideal timekiller.
I'll have to go to another screening in London sometime.
Millennium Buggeration
Comedian Rufus Hound gave a witty twist on the many nostalgia
programmes infesting telly, by telling it like it is (or was) and
not being afraid to tackle any taboos.
Hence "My Funniest Year" as broadcast last night where it
looked back just 10 years ago to the events of 2000
proving that time really has gone very fast since then.
Quite a lot of my favourite comedy targets including John Leslie,
Gary Glitter and Danny Dyer were given their fair share of
ribbing in a near-the-knuckle manner.
Also covered were the first ever Big Brother and a look back
at some of the more notorious housemates over the last
10 years.
Even the late Jade Goody didn't escape a ribbing, with Hound
referring to her as "The People's Racist".
And if anyone is thinking Big Brother will benefit by
moving to Channel 5, three words; Justin Lee Collins.
With his extensive knowledge of television, Hound also
gave his take on some of the lesser successful reality
shows to pop up later on in the decade, such as ITV2's "The Club"
notorious for the clip of the very drunk in denial Sam Fox,
and Channel 5's "The Farm" from 2004 where Rebecca Loos
was clearly seen beating off a pig.
Hopefully there will be more retrospectives, combining
stand up with nostalgia in the not too distant future.
programmes infesting telly, by telling it like it is (or was) and
not being afraid to tackle any taboos.
Hence "My Funniest Year" as broadcast last night where it
looked back just 10 years ago to the events of 2000
proving that time really has gone very fast since then.
Quite a lot of my favourite comedy targets including John Leslie,
Gary Glitter and Danny Dyer were given their fair share of
ribbing in a near-the-knuckle manner.
Also covered were the first ever Big Brother and a look back
at some of the more notorious housemates over the last
10 years.
Even the late Jade Goody didn't escape a ribbing, with Hound
referring to her as "The People's Racist".
And if anyone is thinking Big Brother will benefit by
moving to Channel 5, three words; Justin Lee Collins.
With his extensive knowledge of television, Hound also
gave his take on some of the lesser successful reality
shows to pop up later on in the decade, such as ITV2's "The Club"
notorious for the clip of the very drunk in denial Sam Fox,
and Channel 5's "The Farm" from 2004 where Rebecca Loos
was clearly seen beating off a pig.
Hopefully there will be more retrospectives, combining
stand up with nostalgia in the not too distant future.
Saturday, September 04, 2010
The Brummie Blow To The Head
This time last year I thought The X Factor was becoming desperate
in adapting the live audience format for the auditions, and
had me longing for Britain's Got Talent to return.
This year it's been the reverse and with the possible addition
of Danni's absence, The X Factor has been on top form
this series with tonight's episode being the best episode
so far. Well, of 2010 at least.
One memorable performance was a rather squeaky rendition
of "For Your Eyes Only" by a 40 odd woman from Birmingham.
Personally I preferred Denis Cadogan's rendition as part
of Tudor's Death Metal Karaoke which I included on the
Smoke Xmas Tape last year.
But what's currently spreading the message boards and Twitter
like mad is the pair who in the eyes of many, managed
to turn the X Factor into The Jeremy Kyle Show.
"Ablisa" barely had any chemistry between each other on stage
and it's pretty obvious they hated each other all along.
Not least with one of them resorting to taking a swing at her partner
which was a bit full on, but the way it was handled was superb
with host Dermot O'Leary being pretty stern with the woman
who imposed the said strike.
I can't remember which one, but it will be all over the gutter press
tomorrow morning.
And in all fairness to the girls, it has been at least 5 years
since Natalie Imbruglia had a major chart hit.
in adapting the live audience format for the auditions, and
had me longing for Britain's Got Talent to return.
This year it's been the reverse and with the possible addition
of Danni's absence, The X Factor has been on top form
this series with tonight's episode being the best episode
so far. Well, of 2010 at least.
One memorable performance was a rather squeaky rendition
of "For Your Eyes Only" by a 40 odd woman from Birmingham.
Personally I preferred Denis Cadogan's rendition as part
of Tudor's Death Metal Karaoke which I included on the
Smoke Xmas Tape last year.
But what's currently spreading the message boards and Twitter
like mad is the pair who in the eyes of many, managed
to turn the X Factor into The Jeremy Kyle Show.
"Ablisa" barely had any chemistry between each other on stage
and it's pretty obvious they hated each other all along.
Not least with one of them resorting to taking a swing at her partner
which was a bit full on, but the way it was handled was superb
with host Dermot O'Leary being pretty stern with the woman
who imposed the said strike.
I can't remember which one, but it will be all over the gutter press
tomorrow morning.
And in all fairness to the girls, it has been at least 5 years
since Natalie Imbruglia had a major chart hit.
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