Tonight's radio show went pretty well and I reckon it's getting more solid
by the week.
I.E I'll never get it 100% but that's part of the charm.
I did a couple of my links using the old "Whicker's World" theme tune
from the 1980s, which is a bit of an odd backing bed for the show
but having used it more than once, it could be sort of re-adapted.
Whether I'll follow in the footsteps of the traveller remains to be seen
judging by my current monetary state.
Belle Amie were thrown out of the X Factor tonight after going to deadlock
although apparently, Dermot addressed Katy Weasel as the c-word after
saying what song she would be singing to save her place on the show.
Not intentionally of course, but what do I know?
Tomorrow doesn't look too exciting.
Another visit to Kennedy Scott to be bullied even further about my
lack of job searching success, and sorting out my own cooking later on.
Roll on Thursday, and the rudest man in the country performing at the Hammersmith Apollo.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Graveyard Trash
Not too exciting today apart from the weekly gander at the X Factor
where this week Aiden Grimshaw danced on Jacko's grave, Katie Weasel
had an argument with her make-up, and Cher Lloyd didn't rap.
Jamiroquai are performing on the show tomorrow evening, although
I doubt I'll get to see it as I'll be heading back from the first show
after what seems like a very long absence from CSR where they've
done well with Student Radio Award nominations.
I plan to play a record four tracks by Marcos Valle, to make up
for the weeks off I've had where the latest album has been profiled,
and I plan to introduce a brand new item to proceedings, almost.
Nothing in radio is new these days. It's the law.
That aside it will be good to be back on the airwaves.
Extra hour in bed tonight, which means a longer journey up to the Eliot College.
Here's hoping I don't pass by any nasty dog owners.
where this week Aiden Grimshaw danced on Jacko's grave, Katie Weasel
had an argument with her make-up, and Cher Lloyd didn't rap.
Jamiroquai are performing on the show tomorrow evening, although
I doubt I'll get to see it as I'll be heading back from the first show
after what seems like a very long absence from CSR where they've
done well with Student Radio Award nominations.
I plan to play a record four tracks by Marcos Valle, to make up
for the weeks off I've had where the latest album has been profiled,
and I plan to introduce a brand new item to proceedings, almost.
Nothing in radio is new these days. It's the law.
That aside it will be good to be back on the airwaves.
Extra hour in bed tonight, which means a longer journey up to the Eliot College.
Here's hoping I don't pass by any nasty dog owners.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Purchasing A New Pair
It's been pretty lazy today, apart from having to buy a pair of replacement
earpieces.
Tomorrow will probably see a similar state of affairs, apart from the possible
planning of my "comeback show" if I can call it that, to CSR on Sunday.
Knowing the station name now relates to the current political state
of affairs, I'd better be careful what I say.
On the plus side, as the show is going out on Halloween, I won't have to
worry about people knocking on my front door asking for sweets.
The downside is that on the long way back from the University,
I could end up bumping into one or two individuals dressed in black cloaks.
earpieces.
Tomorrow will probably see a similar state of affairs, apart from the possible
planning of my "comeback show" if I can call it that, to CSR on Sunday.
Knowing the station name now relates to the current political state
of affairs, I'd better be careful what I say.
On the plus side, as the show is going out on Halloween, I won't have to
worry about people knocking on my front door asking for sweets.
The downside is that on the long way back from the University,
I could end up bumping into one or two individuals dressed in black cloaks.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
RAJAR Schmayjar
Not a great deal to comment about on the RAJAR results for the
third quarter of 2010, only that 6 Music seem to be continuing well,
and ShoutSport have gained three million listeners.
Most of today has been spent listening to the audio of the sessions
that took place last week at the Radio Festival in Manchester, where
the most interesting was that of the old Picadilly presenters including
Timmy Mallet and Chris "Nobby" Evans, with "creativity" being the area of focus.
What they managed to nail perfectly is that you can't just say on the spot
that you have to start being creative, and that such a thing comes naturally.
That may explain the number of people I've seen on the radio course
who before going to air, claim they have bags full of ideas that they're surprisingly cagey about.
Which may explain why when such "ideas" go to air they fall on their backsides.
I'm no creative person myself, but when at University, the most creative
stuff seemed to take place instantly on the air itself, and with characters
like Tudor present on my show occasionally, that's where the fun stuff
came out, due to the entire premise of being able to laugh when
things didn't work out to plan.
The majority of silly things I did, normally came as a result of listening
to the many library CDs I "borrowed", although if the dreadful spoof
news podcasts from earlier this year were anything to go by, it didn't
always work.
On the way back from the Lime bar a couple of weeks ago, myself
and Big Dave Nightingale were referring to a point made by Sandy Beech
in Nottingham last year, where Music 4 were commisioned to write comedy songs
for the then "Hit Music Network's" local breakfast shows, written by a
"comedy team" set up by the network.
Beech turned the idea down, all down to the basis that 33 then local
commercial stations could not compete with Chris Moyles like that,
due to Moyles having the ability to come up with the lyrics to his jingles
on his own.
Not to mention when I started at CSR and tried playing records by
Florence And The Machine, and Dizzee Rascal alongside Earth Wind And Fire
which didn't work at all, and I gradually abandoned after six months.
It more than illustrates the point that many stations are trying to emulate
others rather than sticking to what they're good at, and the one thing that
stuck in mind was a statement from Simon Hirst, saying that the best advice
for anyone who really loved radio was to do what they want, on any scale
possible even if it was simply broadcasting on "Radio Bedroom".
The main point being that if you enjoy it, and don't do it for the money,
then carry on doing it.
Having spent two weeks away from my CSR 97.4 show, I simply can't
wait to get back and carry on seeing what works and what doesn't
and never be afraid to try out new things on a technical level.
Whilst everything around me overall may be bollocks, the show's more
stable than it was at the beginning of the year.
Save for the number of holidays mind.
third quarter of 2010, only that 6 Music seem to be continuing well,
and ShoutSport have gained three million listeners.
Most of today has been spent listening to the audio of the sessions
that took place last week at the Radio Festival in Manchester, where
the most interesting was that of the old Picadilly presenters including
Timmy Mallet and Chris "Nobby" Evans, with "creativity" being the area of focus.
What they managed to nail perfectly is that you can't just say on the spot
that you have to start being creative, and that such a thing comes naturally.
That may explain the number of people I've seen on the radio course
who before going to air, claim they have bags full of ideas that they're surprisingly cagey about.
Which may explain why when such "ideas" go to air they fall on their backsides.
I'm no creative person myself, but when at University, the most creative
stuff seemed to take place instantly on the air itself, and with characters
like Tudor present on my show occasionally, that's where the fun stuff
came out, due to the entire premise of being able to laugh when
things didn't work out to plan.
The majority of silly things I did, normally came as a result of listening
to the many library CDs I "borrowed", although if the dreadful spoof
news podcasts from earlier this year were anything to go by, it didn't
always work.
On the way back from the Lime bar a couple of weeks ago, myself
and Big Dave Nightingale were referring to a point made by Sandy Beech
in Nottingham last year, where Music 4 were commisioned to write comedy songs
for the then "Hit Music Network's" local breakfast shows, written by a
"comedy team" set up by the network.
Beech turned the idea down, all down to the basis that 33 then local
commercial stations could not compete with Chris Moyles like that,
due to Moyles having the ability to come up with the lyrics to his jingles
on his own.
Not to mention when I started at CSR and tried playing records by
Florence And The Machine, and Dizzee Rascal alongside Earth Wind And Fire
which didn't work at all, and I gradually abandoned after six months.
It more than illustrates the point that many stations are trying to emulate
others rather than sticking to what they're good at, and the one thing that
stuck in mind was a statement from Simon Hirst, saying that the best advice
for anyone who really loved radio was to do what they want, on any scale
possible even if it was simply broadcasting on "Radio Bedroom".
The main point being that if you enjoy it, and don't do it for the money,
then carry on doing it.
Having spent two weeks away from my CSR 97.4 show, I simply can't
wait to get back and carry on seeing what works and what doesn't
and never be afraid to try out new things on a technical level.
Whilst everything around me overall may be bollocks, the show's more
stable than it was at the beginning of the year.
Save for the number of holidays mind.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Addicted To Lumps Of Sugar
I completely forgot to write a blog post yesterday.
Don't worry, I didn't exactly go out and undergo the acts that I hinted
about two days ago, as there are one or two things to live for.
Once they've been done, then I can start worrying.
I spent a lot of yesterday re-viewing many documentaries about
old animation such as The Magic Roundabout, which prompted me
to have a listen to the Jasper Carrott pisstake that got banned by
the BBC.
From my view it served the BBC right for taking the show off
and replacing it with "The Adventures Of Parsley" and "Hector's House"
as mentioned by Mr Davies to give him his real name.
A lot of cartoons from beyond that era made on our shores don't get
the recognition they deserve, as I'd love to find out more about
how "The Trap Door" for example was made, especially as Terry Brain
and Steve Box now work for Aardman and have worked on
"The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit" amongst other projects.
This afternoon I'm attending the first AS Social Group to take place
in Canterbury, which from now on will mean goodbye to delayed train
journeys back from Ashford.
I'm not sure what the building that it will take place in will be
like, but it's good to go through changes now and again.
I'm guessing that quite a few attendees from Ashford will be
present as well, taking into account that a few of them travel
from the Thanet area.
All that aside, I'm still an angry and dangerous man.
Don't worry, I didn't exactly go out and undergo the acts that I hinted
about two days ago, as there are one or two things to live for.
Once they've been done, then I can start worrying.
I spent a lot of yesterday re-viewing many documentaries about
old animation such as The Magic Roundabout, which prompted me
to have a listen to the Jasper Carrott pisstake that got banned by
the BBC.
From my view it served the BBC right for taking the show off
and replacing it with "The Adventures Of Parsley" and "Hector's House"
as mentioned by Mr Davies to give him his real name.
A lot of cartoons from beyond that era made on our shores don't get
the recognition they deserve, as I'd love to find out more about
how "The Trap Door" for example was made, especially as Terry Brain
and Steve Box now work for Aardman and have worked on
"The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit" amongst other projects.
This afternoon I'm attending the first AS Social Group to take place
in Canterbury, which from now on will mean goodbye to delayed train
journeys back from Ashford.
I'm not sure what the building that it will take place in will be
like, but it's good to go through changes now and again.
I'm guessing that quite a few attendees from Ashford will be
present as well, taking into account that a few of them travel
from the Thanet area.
All that aside, I'm still an angry and dangerous man.
Monday, October 25, 2010
A Brief Reflection
I've almost had it in this job search.
Either I give up completely, or I put the constant bullying of the Job Centre
to one side and have more guts, regardless of the constant rejections
I keep getting.
It's not like I'm not trying or anything.
I'm nearing the point of making my way to the wooden bridge
near my house, and spending the rest of my life lying on the train track.
The hard tough reality of how things are, is getting to me month by month
and with more and more people getting bitten by the humourless, and
spontaneous-less bugs I'm starting to wonder if it's even worth blending in.
There's too many people who I know of personally that I really
want to physically attack, and it's probably best that in my current
condition, that I don't even leave the house.
A lot of things worth living for seem to have disappeared, and I have
severe doubts of being unable to get through a depressing period
lead by a fucked up government, with jobs disappearing by the day,
and my bank account getting more and more shallow.
I guess it's a case of learning from experience, as opposed to
taking so called "honest advice".
I clearly haven't learned.
Either I give up completely, or I put the constant bullying of the Job Centre
to one side and have more guts, regardless of the constant rejections
I keep getting.
It's not like I'm not trying or anything.
I'm nearing the point of making my way to the wooden bridge
near my house, and spending the rest of my life lying on the train track.
The hard tough reality of how things are, is getting to me month by month
and with more and more people getting bitten by the humourless, and
spontaneous-less bugs I'm starting to wonder if it's even worth blending in.
There's too many people who I know of personally that I really
want to physically attack, and it's probably best that in my current
condition, that I don't even leave the house.
A lot of things worth living for seem to have disappeared, and I have
severe doubts of being unable to get through a depressing period
lead by a fucked up government, with jobs disappearing by the day,
and my bank account getting more and more shallow.
I guess it's a case of learning from experience, as opposed to
taking so called "honest advice".
I clearly haven't learned.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Solid Lock
It took me a bit of time to find the rather hidden performance spot,
but Sean Lock managed to give off a superb show tonight.
Highlights included jokes about Nick Griffin, the recession, and the
coyness of the BBC post "Sachsgate".
I was a bit unsure about the jokes about the Parylympics relating
to sports designed for agoraphobia sufferers, but I soon put it to
one side when corpsing over the gag about irritable bowel weightlifting.
Some of the laughs were provided by a few hecklers including one
who started videoing the performance, and another who had apparently
turned up late, and sounded like a drunk twat.
I pretty certain that's how Sean himself would have put it.
It was also good to hear a Level 42 reference within the show
although I won't mention the context it was in.
Definitely the perfect warm up ahead of Frankie Boyle in a couple of weeks.
but Sean Lock managed to give off a superb show tonight.
Highlights included jokes about Nick Griffin, the recession, and the
coyness of the BBC post "Sachsgate".
I was a bit unsure about the jokes about the Parylympics relating
to sports designed for agoraphobia sufferers, but I soon put it to
one side when corpsing over the gag about irritable bowel weightlifting.
Some of the laughs were provided by a few hecklers including one
who started videoing the performance, and another who had apparently
turned up late, and sounded like a drunk twat.
I pretty certain that's how Sean himself would have put it.
It was also good to hear a Level 42 reference within the show
although I won't mention the context it was in.
Definitely the perfect warm up ahead of Frankie Boyle in a couple of weeks.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
"Don't Try And Kid Me Man Cub"
Tonight's X Factor didn't exactly provide what it said on the tin
in terms of this week's theme being so called "Guilty Pleasures".
The judges obviously hadn't got it round their heads that a guilty pleasure
isn't necessarily a song that doesn't get heard often or away from the show's
"comfort zone" and it wasn't until the last two acts that we actually
got some performances that matched the grade.
Wagner provided a cod-latino medley of "Spice Up Your Live" and
"Livin' La Vida Loca", whilst Katie Waissel finally proved herself
with a rendition of "I Wanna Be Like You" from one of the best films ever.
Personally, her version doesn't quite match this piece of genius.
Some of the ill-advised song choices included TreyC's rendition of
"Whole Lotta Love" which prompted an angry reaction
from many a Led Zeppelin fan on Twitter with regards to relevance,
and even worse was Wand Erection's destroying of "Nobody Knows" by Pink.
If Pink wanted a key change in her song, then she would have bloody
well done so herself.
Then again, it's more than likely that Harry from the band
will end up going solo as originally intended.
Luckily I won't have to sit through the vote-off tomorrow as I'm
seeing Sean Lock at Shirley Hall in Canterbury although I've no
idea where it actually is.
Google Maps to the rescue as always.
in terms of this week's theme being so called "Guilty Pleasures".
The judges obviously hadn't got it round their heads that a guilty pleasure
isn't necessarily a song that doesn't get heard often or away from the show's
"comfort zone" and it wasn't until the last two acts that we actually
got some performances that matched the grade.
Wagner provided a cod-latino medley of "Spice Up Your Live" and
"Livin' La Vida Loca", whilst Katie Waissel finally proved herself
with a rendition of "I Wanna Be Like You" from one of the best films ever.
Personally, her version doesn't quite match this piece of genius.
Some of the ill-advised song choices included TreyC's rendition of
"Whole Lotta Love" which prompted an angry reaction
from many a Led Zeppelin fan on Twitter with regards to relevance,
and even worse was Wand Erection's destroying of "Nobody Knows" by Pink.
If Pink wanted a key change in her song, then she would have bloody
well done so herself.
Then again, it's more than likely that Harry from the band
will end up going solo as originally intended.
Luckily I won't have to sit through the vote-off tomorrow as I'm
seeing Sean Lock at Shirley Hall in Canterbury although I've no
idea where it actually is.
Google Maps to the rescue as always.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Flat Out Friday
Dreadfully static throughout most of today, much of it spent writing.
The Saturday morning chronology of sorts is almost finished
and I hope to get it uploaded around Christmas, although it's been good fun
having a look back, where even the stuff from around five years ago
brings back pleasant memories.
It's just a shame how vacuous and tight television has become
more recently, with no room for ad-libbing or irreverence.
I had a chat with Matt Deegan in Manchester last week and we went into
a minor debate about the pros and cons of live broadcasting,
where the founder of FunKids Radio believes that good quality
radio can be equally justifiable pre-recorded as well as live.
In terms of documentaries and inserts yes, but I would never
be able to voicetrack a show as I turn into too much of a perfectionist.
Mum and Dad are away this weekend at my Aunt Helen's in Norwich
and I'm taking a second week away from the radio show, which is nicely
timed, considering CSR is starting to mean a lot more than a radio station
at the moment.
Seriously though, on Sunday I'm heading over to see Sean Lock
as part of the Canterbury Festival and I'm hoping that he's even
ruder than he is on television.
I doubt I'll be disappointed.
The Saturday morning chronology of sorts is almost finished
and I hope to get it uploaded around Christmas, although it's been good fun
having a look back, where even the stuff from around five years ago
brings back pleasant memories.
It's just a shame how vacuous and tight television has become
more recently, with no room for ad-libbing or irreverence.
I had a chat with Matt Deegan in Manchester last week and we went into
a minor debate about the pros and cons of live broadcasting,
where the founder of FunKids Radio believes that good quality
radio can be equally justifiable pre-recorded as well as live.
In terms of documentaries and inserts yes, but I would never
be able to voicetrack a show as I turn into too much of a perfectionist.
Mum and Dad are away this weekend at my Aunt Helen's in Norwich
and I'm taking a second week away from the radio show, which is nicely
timed, considering CSR is starting to mean a lot more than a radio station
at the moment.
Seriously though, on Sunday I'm heading over to see Sean Lock
as part of the Canterbury Festival and I'm hoping that he's even
ruder than he is on television.
I doubt I'll be disappointed.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
"Our Love Went Overboard"
Last night's outing proved to be lucky in many ways.
The first instance being that I took more than the amount of money
I thought I needed for the train fare as it appears that they've increased
quicker than George Osborne announced in his speech earlier on.
This was my first gig at the Winter Gardens, and if I'm being honest
the venue itself felt a bit like The Camden Centre where I saw Incognito perform
in April '09, due to all the plastic pint glasses lying about afterwards.
First on stage were "The Deep M.O." a superb soul/funk act from our shores
who like Level 42 have a bass player as the lead singer.
Once again they were superb even though there were only three of
them this time round.
At around 8:30 the main act themselves arrived on stage where it
happened to be Mark King's birthday, making it the second time
I've been around to celebrate it.
Most of the songs, in fact all of them were from the bands heyday
in the 80s including "Running In The Family", "Kansas City Milkman"
"The Sun Goes Down" and "Hot Water".
There were also a few that I've never heard done live before including
the 1988 release "Heaven In My Hands" and the ballad from the previous year
"It's Over" which I seem to remember being used at the end of a 1992
episode of Grange Hill.
I was stood pretty near to the front during the performance and standing
next to me was a rather crazed fan who badly wanted a kiss from
Thunderthumbs to the point where he found it hard to deal with.
That said it was a fun night out and I got quite a few photos;
Lead singer Mark King.
An attempt to capture the rapid bass playing.
The superb Mike Lindup on keys and backing vocals.
Both musicians get their chance to shine.
What took place behind me.
Getting the train back was a nightmare, and further proof that if
I go to another gig at the Winter Gardens, I'm getting a hotel.
I ended up leaving for Faversham at 11:15pm and luckily got on
the train to Caterbury from there as it had been delayed.
On waiting at Margate platforms, I bumped into a couple of people
who had been at the gig and on revealing I was an Earth, Wind and Fire fan
it brought to mind Philip Bailey's duet with Phil Collins on "Easy Lover"
and they proceeded to refer to the former lead singer of Genesis as a c**t.
Personally I'd class Phil Collins in the same league as Mick Hucknall,
as in his prime there were some really good records but it's hard
to like him as a person.
Overall it was a fun night and hopefully I'll see Thunderthumbs
and the gang in action again in around two years or sooner.
The first instance being that I took more than the amount of money
I thought I needed for the train fare as it appears that they've increased
quicker than George Osborne announced in his speech earlier on.
This was my first gig at the Winter Gardens, and if I'm being honest
the venue itself felt a bit like The Camden Centre where I saw Incognito perform
in April '09, due to all the plastic pint glasses lying about afterwards.
First on stage were "The Deep M.O." a superb soul/funk act from our shores
who like Level 42 have a bass player as the lead singer.
Once again they were superb even though there were only three of
them this time round.
At around 8:30 the main act themselves arrived on stage where it
happened to be Mark King's birthday, making it the second time
I've been around to celebrate it.
Most of the songs, in fact all of them were from the bands heyday
in the 80s including "Running In The Family", "Kansas City Milkman"
"The Sun Goes Down" and "Hot Water".
There were also a few that I've never heard done live before including
the 1988 release "Heaven In My Hands" and the ballad from the previous year
"It's Over" which I seem to remember being used at the end of a 1992
episode of Grange Hill.
I was stood pretty near to the front during the performance and standing
next to me was a rather crazed fan who badly wanted a kiss from
Thunderthumbs to the point where he found it hard to deal with.
That said it was a fun night out and I got quite a few photos;
Lead singer Mark King.
An attempt to capture the rapid bass playing.
The superb Mike Lindup on keys and backing vocals.
Both musicians get their chance to shine.
What took place behind me.
Getting the train back was a nightmare, and further proof that if
I go to another gig at the Winter Gardens, I'm getting a hotel.
I ended up leaving for Faversham at 11:15pm and luckily got on
the train to Caterbury from there as it had been delayed.
On waiting at Margate platforms, I bumped into a couple of people
who had been at the gig and on revealing I was an Earth, Wind and Fire fan
it brought to mind Philip Bailey's duet with Phil Collins on "Easy Lover"
and they proceeded to refer to the former lead singer of Genesis as a c**t.
Personally I'd class Phil Collins in the same league as Mick Hucknall,
as in his prime there were some really good records but it's hard
to like him as a person.
Overall it was a fun night and hopefully I'll see Thunderthumbs
and the gang in action again in around two years or sooner.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
"Turn It On"
Despite my only venture out of the house today being a visit
to the Post Office, I'm bloody tired, and that's not a good way to be
when I need to be heading over to Margate in an hour or so to
the much anticipated Level 42 concert.
It's good to finally see them performing outside London which
is quite fitting seeing as a lot of their songs were played on the
radio whilst I grew up in Canterbury and I guess it sort of converted
me into one of my biggest obsessions.
I don't know of anyone who has had a bad word towards "Thunderthumbs"
Mike Lindup, and the rest of the band, and I'm hoping we get
a good selection of stuff from the last 30 years.
From the jazz funk days of "Starchild", the chart dominating
"Lessons In Love" and "Running In The Family" and even some of
their up to date material such as the amazing "Dive Into The Sun".
This could quite possibly be the best concert I've been to that's at least
20 miles within Canterbury.
to the Post Office, I'm bloody tired, and that's not a good way to be
when I need to be heading over to Margate in an hour or so to
the much anticipated Level 42 concert.
It's good to finally see them performing outside London which
is quite fitting seeing as a lot of their songs were played on the
radio whilst I grew up in Canterbury and I guess it sort of converted
me into one of my biggest obsessions.
I don't know of anyone who has had a bad word towards "Thunderthumbs"
Mike Lindup, and the rest of the band, and I'm hoping we get
a good selection of stuff from the last 30 years.
From the jazz funk days of "Starchild", the chart dominating
"Lessons In Love" and "Running In The Family" and even some of
their up to date material such as the amazing "Dive Into The Sun".
This could quite possibly be the best concert I've been to that's at least
20 miles within Canterbury.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
The Noise Box Speaks Out
Plenty of interesting goings on at The Radio Festival today
where I suppose one big subject is the debate this morning between
the BBC's Tim Davie and Global Radio's otherwise publicity shy
Chief Executive Ashley Tabor.
While the press have preferred to concentrate on the denial of
Moyles joining Capital, Tabor as much as I despise of him,
made a sort of valid point about Radio 1 not breaking enough new music.
I presume he means during the daytime and I can remember as far back
as the days when Bannister was in charge where there was quite a lean
towards alternative sounding stuff during the daytime, especially on shows
such as Nicky Campbell's and it did manage to sound really good
despite not pulling in the listeners it was wanting.
Then again Tabor probably made those points because he is soiling himself
over the thought of Capital failing to deliver as a national station
when it commences next year.
Myself and Dave Nightingale on Sunday had a chat about the current situation,
and he hinted that within 18 months to 2 years, Global Radio
could be sold to either RTL in Holland, or Clear Channel in the US
because let's face it, Ta-Bore is only really in it for the money
so he can pay off his daddy's debts.
I quote from @mitchelljones on Twitter who rightly states;
"Stop moaning about what the BBC does and worry about what you don't."
Elsewhere there have been really good speakers including
Chris Evans and Timmy Mallett who were part of what sounded like
a brilliant seminar on their time at Picadilly Radio in Manchester
and whether radio in the present day can be creative.
The idea that got me going was Timmy Mallett's on the fact
that if he was still on the air, he would be getting listeners to
send in their own jingles via Youtube or Audioboo,
and asking them to contribute crazy amounts of material.
We're in a fantastic time with regards to platforms for music
and creative audio, and it's a shame that radio is overlooking
sites such as Audioboo and Mixcloud where they could otherwise
be just as useful as Tweeting and iPhone apps.
It all comes to an end tomorrow, and I'm really looking forward
to hearing about the seminar on the future of local radio.
And the Radio Festival overall has proved how much online
technology can play a part within one of the best broadcast mediums.
where I suppose one big subject is the debate this morning between
the BBC's Tim Davie and Global Radio's otherwise publicity shy
Chief Executive Ashley Tabor.
While the press have preferred to concentrate on the denial of
Moyles joining Capital, Tabor as much as I despise of him,
made a sort of valid point about Radio 1 not breaking enough new music.
I presume he means during the daytime and I can remember as far back
as the days when Bannister was in charge where there was quite a lean
towards alternative sounding stuff during the daytime, especially on shows
such as Nicky Campbell's and it did manage to sound really good
despite not pulling in the listeners it was wanting.
Then again Tabor probably made those points because he is soiling himself
over the thought of Capital failing to deliver as a national station
when it commences next year.
Myself and Dave Nightingale on Sunday had a chat about the current situation,
and he hinted that within 18 months to 2 years, Global Radio
could be sold to either RTL in Holland, or Clear Channel in the US
because let's face it, Ta-Bore is only really in it for the money
so he can pay off his daddy's debts.
I quote from @mitchelljones on Twitter who rightly states;
"Stop moaning about what the BBC does and worry about what you don't."
Elsewhere there have been really good speakers including
Chris Evans and Timmy Mallett who were part of what sounded like
a brilliant seminar on their time at Picadilly Radio in Manchester
and whether radio in the present day can be creative.
The idea that got me going was Timmy Mallett's on the fact
that if he was still on the air, he would be getting listeners to
send in their own jingles via Youtube or Audioboo,
and asking them to contribute crazy amounts of material.
We're in a fantastic time with regards to platforms for music
and creative audio, and it's a shame that radio is overlooking
sites such as Audioboo and Mixcloud where they could otherwise
be just as useful as Tweeting and iPhone apps.
It all comes to an end tomorrow, and I'm really looking forward
to hearing about the seminar on the future of local radio.
And the Radio Festival overall has proved how much online
technology can play a part within one of the best broadcast mediums.
Excessive Entertainment
The last few days have been rather exhaustive so here's a few photos
to refresh exactly what I was doing, and how I've ended up in the
dreadful state I'm in now where I can't afford to leave the house.
First of all some of the drunken antics from the CSR Social on Friday;
The ever pleasant Lucy Harvie-Austin.
New arrival Emily.
Venning proving that he's the biggest mover.
Sunday saw me leave Canterbury at 5:40am and arrive in Manchester
around 11 where I bumped into noneother than Big Dave
near the Arndale Centre.
The main gathering itself was in the Exchange bar in Salford
where amongst the discussions, we saw both Liverpool losing to Everton,
and Manchester City beating Blackpool in a very close stoppage time
situation, the result of which pleased Martin, an attendee from Leeds
who happens to be a City supporter.
Others from the Jinglemad site included Andi Watson from Aberdeen,
the legendary Aston McNeil, and Chris Stevens who had plenty to chat
about his current job at GMG including the inaugaration of the new
Smooth Radio package.
I also chatted to Chris about his time at TM Studios in Dallas
and mentioned to me that he was also a big fan of the Steamroller package
by Century 21, used on Invicta FM for five years from 1990.
In the evening I headed over to the Lime bar for an unofficial
gathering of those attending the Radio Festival in Salford
and we got a visit from none-other than Trevor Dann.
I had a chat with outgoing Radio Academy chairman
and referred to one of his ex GLR employees Matthew Linfoot
although Trevor was a bit disapointed when I told him that
I wasn't gay after he asked me for some reason.
I also got a photo with the man himself as seen below;
Quite a sinister looking shot actually.
The journey back from Manchester the following morning was
a bit of a nightmare as I had to stop in Nuneaton for an hour
due to my ticket being off-peak.
I wasn't too downhearted though as that morning's Metro
revealed that Storm Lee had been booted off The X Factor
which made me feel slightly better, even though Diva Fever
have gone too.
Monday night saw another visit to London, this time for the recording
of Richard Herring's "As It Occurs To Me" which should be on iTunes
either tonight or tomorrow.
I'd go as far as saying that it was probably the funniest one I've ever
heard as it was really just a load of poo and fart related jokes,
but in a knowing manner and not to the same sort of humour as
Keith Lemon for example.
There were also a few gags about the Chilean miner rescue,
and that awful ad with Johnny Vaughan and Lisa Snowdon advertising
"Breakfast Biscuits" or whatever they're called.
Having said that, when Rich mentioned about seeing the worst
advert on television of recent, I thought he was referring to the awful
Yeo Valley ad which hopefully will end up at Number 1 in Charlie Brooker's
next countdown of the "10 Biggest Cocks In Advertising".
After the show I met up with Richard and Emma, where it was really good
to see Emma again after Anifest not long ago.
As is normally the case, I got a couple of photos with them
and I look rather awful in them.
Rich and Emma.
The long awaited shot with just Emma.
It turned out that she met Phill Jupitus for the first time in person
that very night, whereas all their chat about classic cartoons prior
to that was on Twitter.
Emma also told me about her proudest moment on television in the
superb series "People Like Us" a sort of precursor to The Office
which won a Royal Television Society award in 2000.
Unfortunately, the then BBC 2 controller Jane Root wasn't
very supportive on the night, and expressed her shock at them winning
possibly because her mind was set on "The Office" becoming a success
not that I have anything against "The Office" as a series.
The same woman was also responsible for decommissioning another
series that Emma appeared in, that being Lee and Herring's
"This Morning With Richard Not Judy" on the sole basis that
the heavily edited Friday repeat wasn't doing well after The Simpsons.
Which is rather callous considering the effort put in to the live
Sunday lunchtime shows which always seemed to get interrupted
for sport every other week.
Overall it was an amazing night out and when the podcast gets
uploaded, you'll probably be able to hear me laughing at the
flatulence related stuff as a result of being sat in the front row.
to refresh exactly what I was doing, and how I've ended up in the
dreadful state I'm in now where I can't afford to leave the house.
First of all some of the drunken antics from the CSR Social on Friday;
The ever pleasant Lucy Harvie-Austin.
New arrival Emily.
Venning proving that he's the biggest mover.
Sunday saw me leave Canterbury at 5:40am and arrive in Manchester
around 11 where I bumped into noneother than Big Dave
near the Arndale Centre.
The main gathering itself was in the Exchange bar in Salford
where amongst the discussions, we saw both Liverpool losing to Everton,
and Manchester City beating Blackpool in a very close stoppage time
situation, the result of which pleased Martin, an attendee from Leeds
who happens to be a City supporter.
Others from the Jinglemad site included Andi Watson from Aberdeen,
the legendary Aston McNeil, and Chris Stevens who had plenty to chat
about his current job at GMG including the inaugaration of the new
Smooth Radio package.
I also chatted to Chris about his time at TM Studios in Dallas
and mentioned to me that he was also a big fan of the Steamroller package
by Century 21, used on Invicta FM for five years from 1990.
In the evening I headed over to the Lime bar for an unofficial
gathering of those attending the Radio Festival in Salford
and we got a visit from none-other than Trevor Dann.
I had a chat with outgoing Radio Academy chairman
and referred to one of his ex GLR employees Matthew Linfoot
although Trevor was a bit disapointed when I told him that
I wasn't gay after he asked me for some reason.
I also got a photo with the man himself as seen below;
Quite a sinister looking shot actually.
The journey back from Manchester the following morning was
a bit of a nightmare as I had to stop in Nuneaton for an hour
due to my ticket being off-peak.
I wasn't too downhearted though as that morning's Metro
revealed that Storm Lee had been booted off The X Factor
which made me feel slightly better, even though Diva Fever
have gone too.
Monday night saw another visit to London, this time for the recording
of Richard Herring's "As It Occurs To Me" which should be on iTunes
either tonight or tomorrow.
I'd go as far as saying that it was probably the funniest one I've ever
heard as it was really just a load of poo and fart related jokes,
but in a knowing manner and not to the same sort of humour as
Keith Lemon for example.
There were also a few gags about the Chilean miner rescue,
and that awful ad with Johnny Vaughan and Lisa Snowdon advertising
"Breakfast Biscuits" or whatever they're called.
Having said that, when Rich mentioned about seeing the worst
advert on television of recent, I thought he was referring to the awful
Yeo Valley ad which hopefully will end up at Number 1 in Charlie Brooker's
next countdown of the "10 Biggest Cocks In Advertising".
After the show I met up with Richard and Emma, where it was really good
to see Emma again after Anifest not long ago.
As is normally the case, I got a couple of photos with them
and I look rather awful in them.
Rich and Emma.
The long awaited shot with just Emma.
It turned out that she met Phill Jupitus for the first time in person
that very night, whereas all their chat about classic cartoons prior
to that was on Twitter.
Emma also told me about her proudest moment on television in the
superb series "People Like Us" a sort of precursor to The Office
which won a Royal Television Society award in 2000.
Unfortunately, the then BBC 2 controller Jane Root wasn't
very supportive on the night, and expressed her shock at them winning
possibly because her mind was set on "The Office" becoming a success
not that I have anything against "The Office" as a series.
The same woman was also responsible for decommissioning another
series that Emma appeared in, that being Lee and Herring's
"This Morning With Richard Not Judy" on the sole basis that
the heavily edited Friday repeat wasn't doing well after The Simpsons.
Which is rather callous considering the effort put in to the live
Sunday lunchtime shows which always seemed to get interrupted
for sport every other week.
Overall it was an amazing night out and when the podcast gets
uploaded, you'll probably be able to hear me laughing at the
flatulence related stuff as a result of being sat in the front row.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Buried Under
I am exhausted and very poorly after returning from Manchester,
not helped by the fact that I'm making the visit up to London again
this evening to see Richard Herring's AIOTM at the Leicester Square Theatre.
As soon as I got back I had to go to Kennedy Scott and I'm
rather down as I've attempted to apply for a job which has a good
description, only the contact details are extremely vague,
asking me to ring the job centre, and getting through to them
is about as easy as plaiting sawdust.
I'll give my account of what happened yesterday later on
when I'm in a livelier mood and not so badly come down.
not helped by the fact that I'm making the visit up to London again
this evening to see Richard Herring's AIOTM at the Leicester Square Theatre.
As soon as I got back I had to go to Kennedy Scott and I'm
rather down as I've attempted to apply for a job which has a good
description, only the contact details are extremely vague,
asking me to ring the job centre, and getting through to them
is about as easy as plaiting sawdust.
I'll give my account of what happened yesterday later on
when I'm in a livelier mood and not so badly come down.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
The 5:40 To Manchester (Almost)
Almost set for the long haul to Manchester tomorrow
where I'm due to set off from Canterbury at 5:40am.
Tonight sort of got the anticipation running with The X Factor
where the theme this week was "Musical Heroes" which considering
some of the acts was a bit questionable.
One being Diva Fever who in all fairness did an entertaining take
on Duck Sauce's "Barbara Streisand" although the duo have only
had two hits under that collaboration.
That's Duck Sauce I'm referring to mind, although
"Anyway" was a tune.
Other memorable performances were Mary's rendition of
"You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" and Rebbekah's
"Feelin' Good" but most of the other acts were either "meh" or really
irritating.
Falling into the latter category was Cher Lloyd who really needs
to check back into the crazy house.
And I'm saying that from personal experience.
I didn't get the fuss over Matt's rather dull cover of an
even duller Bruno Mars song, but the general public seem
to be turned on by average easily these days.
As for the judges, Dannii Minogue continued to prove her
racist tendencies when criticising Wagner's Tom Jones cover
asking him if he was "singing it in another language".
The former Home and Away actress definitely knows when to
say the wrong things at the wrong time.
Everything aside, I won't be seeing tomorrow's result show
unless I find a pub in Manchester showing them on the telly.
It's going to be good to catch up with the usual Jinglemad members
such as Aston, Big Dave and a few I haven't seen for ages including
the ever delightful Martin Simm from Leeds.
I'm looking forward to hearing their thoughts on the current state of
the discussion board and sip many a pint of beer, or a bottle of WKD
in my case.
I need to be back in Canterbury by Monday lunchtime, so I may
attempt to board the train leaving at a time in reference to an
erstwhile Saturday morning show; "The 8:15 From Manchester".
where I'm due to set off from Canterbury at 5:40am.
Tonight sort of got the anticipation running with The X Factor
where the theme this week was "Musical Heroes" which considering
some of the acts was a bit questionable.
One being Diva Fever who in all fairness did an entertaining take
on Duck Sauce's "Barbara Streisand" although the duo have only
had two hits under that collaboration.
That's Duck Sauce I'm referring to mind, although
"Anyway" was a tune.
Other memorable performances were Mary's rendition of
"You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" and Rebbekah's
"Feelin' Good" but most of the other acts were either "meh" or really
irritating.
Falling into the latter category was Cher Lloyd who really needs
to check back into the crazy house.
And I'm saying that from personal experience.
I didn't get the fuss over Matt's rather dull cover of an
even duller Bruno Mars song, but the general public seem
to be turned on by average easily these days.
As for the judges, Dannii Minogue continued to prove her
racist tendencies when criticising Wagner's Tom Jones cover
asking him if he was "singing it in another language".
The former Home and Away actress definitely knows when to
say the wrong things at the wrong time.
Everything aside, I won't be seeing tomorrow's result show
unless I find a pub in Manchester showing them on the telly.
It's going to be good to catch up with the usual Jinglemad members
such as Aston, Big Dave and a few I haven't seen for ages including
the ever delightful Martin Simm from Leeds.
I'm looking forward to hearing their thoughts on the current state of
the discussion board and sip many a pint of beer, or a bottle of WKD
in my case.
I need to be back in Canterbury by Monday lunchtime, so I may
attempt to board the train leaving at a time in reference to an
erstwhile Saturday morning show; "The 8:15 From Manchester".
Friday, October 15, 2010
"Ready, Steady Go"
The mock job interview was OK I guess, although I got told
to mention that if I was in the unlikely (in my own words) situation
of a real interview, I would need to mention in my weaknesses
that I'm not so good at selling myself, to help the interview go better.
I don't get that from an real perspective, but they
must be doing something right.
Then again a lot of job centres don't have a bleeding clue
or the more likely case of not even giving a bollocks.
It should be an enjoyable weekend however, starting off tonight
with what I suppose you could call a triple gong nomination party
with the CSR team starting off at Spoons and then to Studio 41.
I'm hoping to get more than a little leathered, but the downside
is that I may have to suffer station mananger Andrew Venning
busting his moves once again.
And that's a site no sane person would want to see.
Then again not many people at the station are sane so I guess it's OK.
to mention that if I was in the unlikely (in my own words) situation
of a real interview, I would need to mention in my weaknesses
that I'm not so good at selling myself, to help the interview go better.
I don't get that from an real perspective, but they
must be doing something right.
Then again a lot of job centres don't have a bleeding clue
or the more likely case of not even giving a bollocks.
It should be an enjoyable weekend however, starting off tonight
with what I suppose you could call a triple gong nomination party
with the CSR team starting off at Spoons and then to Studio 41.
I'm hoping to get more than a little leathered, but the downside
is that I may have to suffer station mananger Andrew Venning
busting his moves once again.
And that's a site no sane person would want to see.
Then again not many people at the station are sane so I guess it's OK.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Fast Paced Funnies
An entertaining evening was provided by the Montana stand up
despite arriving slightly late due to getting on the wrong part
of the train and almost ending up in Dover.
Rich Hall was on top form tackling subjects from the Cumbria murders
to being asked by "Royal Command" to attend a visit to
Buckingham Palace alongside other Americans who had made
a mark in culture, or along those lines.
There were also a few songs including two in the encore
with the first about "crap towns" he'd visited on the tour
and how the Scottish allegedly stole the invention of
Jack Daniels whisky.
Hopefully I won't be going anywhere near that liquid tomorrow
as it's the CSR outing for the new arrivals starting off at
a nearby Spoons and onto Studio 41 where I've never been before
apart from the Planet Lazer bit.
It will be a good way for the station to celebrate it's SRA nominations
although I'll probably want to be careful with my money, prior
to the long journey on Sunday.
despite arriving slightly late due to getting on the wrong part
of the train and almost ending up in Dover.
Rich Hall was on top form tackling subjects from the Cumbria murders
to being asked by "Royal Command" to attend a visit to
Buckingham Palace alongside other Americans who had made
a mark in culture, or along those lines.
There were also a few songs including two in the encore
with the first about "crap towns" he'd visited on the tour
and how the Scottish allegedly stole the invention of
Jack Daniels whisky.
Hopefully I won't be going anywhere near that liquid tomorrow
as it's the CSR outing for the new arrivals starting off at
a nearby Spoons and onto Studio 41 where I've never been before
apart from the Planet Lazer bit.
It will be a good way for the station to celebrate it's SRA nominations
although I'll probably want to be careful with my money, prior
to the long journey on Sunday.
Another Uphill Journey
Last night the 2010 Student Radio Awards were announced
and CSR seems to have done pretty well with a nomination
for Lounge in the event category again, and Best Student Radio station.
The weird thing is that Smoke for the first time in four years
haven't been nominated in the latter category so the Canterbury
based station must be doing something right.
And don't go getting any ideas!
Seriously though, the Westminster station has done pretty well
in itself, gaining five nominations including one for Best Newcomer
with current head of daytime Darby Dorras within the nominations.
However the one I'm most excited about is one of our alumni
Sarah Thompson nominated for best female from her show
on North London's "Roundhouse Radio" where she's been
presenting her "Filthy Disco" show for over half a year now.
I won't be present on the night itself, but here's
hoping everyone wins at least something.
I may stop over at the studios tonight en route to
the Gulbenkian although whether anyone will be there
is anyone's guess.
Although there's also the social at Studio 41 tomorrow
evening which I hope will be successful.
and CSR seems to have done pretty well with a nomination
for Lounge in the event category again, and Best Student Radio station.
The weird thing is that Smoke for the first time in four years
haven't been nominated in the latter category so the Canterbury
based station must be doing something right.
And don't go getting any ideas!
Seriously though, the Westminster station has done pretty well
in itself, gaining five nominations including one for Best Newcomer
with current head of daytime Darby Dorras within the nominations.
However the one I'm most excited about is one of our alumni
Sarah Thompson nominated for best female from her show
on North London's "Roundhouse Radio" where she's been
presenting her "Filthy Disco" show for over half a year now.
I won't be present on the night itself, but here's
hoping everyone wins at least something.
I may stop over at the studios tonight en route to
the Gulbenkian although whether anyone will be there
is anyone's guess.
Although there's also the social at Studio 41 tomorrow
evening which I hope will be successful.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Lightening The Weight Off My Back
Apart from 18 fellas emerging from a hole, nothing too exciting
has been taking place today.
I may head into Canterbury tomorrow, to attempt to pay my bank balance
and double check my plans for Sunday of which I hope the early start
will be worth it.
Later on I'll be making the journey up to the Gulbenkian to see
Rich Hall perform live, and I'm hoping he'll be just as cutting
as he is on the television.
The man who's also made the best documentary on television this year
with the BBC Four documentary about films and music from "The Deep South".
has been taking place today.
I may head into Canterbury tomorrow, to attempt to pay my bank balance
and double check my plans for Sunday of which I hope the early start
will be worth it.
Later on I'll be making the journey up to the Gulbenkian to see
Rich Hall perform live, and I'm hoping he'll be just as cutting
as he is on the television.
The man who's also made the best documentary on television this year
with the BBC Four documentary about films and music from "The Deep South".
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
An Unnecessary Fuss Over Six Second Songs
I've decided to give in and this Sunday I will be heading up
to Manchester for the Jinglemad.com meet up.
There's been far too much unbalanced and in my opinion
"near to the point of bullying" comments on the site
slating "anything that isn't JAM" and it will be nice to catch up
with some of the more pleasant contributors.
Having said that, not many of those I've spoken to who are attending
even bother to visit the site and I can't blame them at all.
It will mean two early starts with the first involving a coach from
Canterbury to London at 5:30am on Sunday.
I won't be taking the coach up North however as I don't want
a repeat of Nottingham.
I'll also need to get an early train en route to Canterbury
on the Monday because of an appointment at Kennedy Scott later on.
Rather inconveniently I'm heading back over to London to see
Richard Herring and the AIOTM team at the Leicester Square theatre
on Monday so that makes things more complicated.
Quite a crazy week to follow with Level 42 on Wednesday
and Sean Lock on the Sunday.
I need to earn more loot rather than live on luxuries.
to Manchester for the Jinglemad.com meet up.
There's been far too much unbalanced and in my opinion
"near to the point of bullying" comments on the site
slating "anything that isn't JAM" and it will be nice to catch up
with some of the more pleasant contributors.
Having said that, not many of those I've spoken to who are attending
even bother to visit the site and I can't blame them at all.
It will mean two early starts with the first involving a coach from
Canterbury to London at 5:30am on Sunday.
I won't be taking the coach up North however as I don't want
a repeat of Nottingham.
I'll also need to get an early train en route to Canterbury
on the Monday because of an appointment at Kennedy Scott later on.
Rather inconveniently I'm heading back over to London to see
Richard Herring and the AIOTM team at the Leicester Square theatre
on Monday so that makes things more complicated.
Quite a crazy week to follow with Level 42 on Wednesday
and Sean Lock on the Sunday.
I need to earn more loot rather than live on luxuries.
Monday, October 11, 2010
How To Do "Funny" On The Telly
My face is probably the wettest it's been in front of the telly,
after watching tonight's episode of "The Inbetweeners".
I won't say what happened, but the last few moments had me
crying to the point of almost flooding my bedroom as it was
utterly hilarious.
I hope Kelly Gravells wasn't watching, with regards
to the jokes about Lincoln University.
I would assume that tonight's episode would be hard to beat
although next week the quartet are going camping
so it looks set to be a strong finale to the series.
My Xmas list seems to be full of DVDs which will probably end up
being bought with my own money, with The Inbetweeners,
This Is England '86, Small Time, and the many stand up releases
this Christmas.
I wouldn't be surprised if Iain Morris and Damon Beesley are having
the last laugh over Ricky Gervais who "caricatured" them in Extras.
after watching tonight's episode of "The Inbetweeners".
I won't say what happened, but the last few moments had me
crying to the point of almost flooding my bedroom as it was
utterly hilarious.
I hope Kelly Gravells wasn't watching, with regards
to the jokes about Lincoln University.
I would assume that tonight's episode would be hard to beat
although next week the quartet are going camping
so it looks set to be a strong finale to the series.
My Xmas list seems to be full of DVDs which will probably end up
being bought with my own money, with The Inbetweeners,
This Is England '86, Small Time, and the many stand up releases
this Christmas.
I wouldn't be surprised if Iain Morris and Damon Beesley are having
the last laugh over Ricky Gervais who "caricatured" them in Extras.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Wake Up And F**k Off
It's not often that content from the press can be trusted,
but if this article from Digital Spy is anything to go by, we're living in 1993
all over again.
The bosses of Daybreak apparently want to promote Lorraine Kelly
as the main presenter of the programme in the new year, which
is exactly what happened at GMTV after the unsuccesful launch
17 years ago.
I'll slip a new disc onto the turntable soon, but it's just another
addition to the flaws of the programme's production team
in terms of not having a bleeding clue about how not to produce
a television programme, or breakfast television overall for that matter.
It's no use asking for Roland Rat or Timmy Mallett to come back
because with most revivals, they've failed to capture the charm
that they had in their heyday.
Crossroads being a major example in the last decade.
It's not just this, but several more personal issues that are getting to me.
Dog owners who are more vicious than the mongrels themsleves as
I found out on the way to CSR, negativity on the Jinglemad forums
which thankfully seems to be finally getting dealt with,
and the usual bugbears of finding a money earner.
A Mock The Week marathon will be on the cards for tonight,
as I'm bloody well dying to be cheered up.
And possibly an Inbetweeners marathon to follow.
but if this article from Digital Spy is anything to go by, we're living in 1993
all over again.
The bosses of Daybreak apparently want to promote Lorraine Kelly
as the main presenter of the programme in the new year, which
is exactly what happened at GMTV after the unsuccesful launch
17 years ago.
I'll slip a new disc onto the turntable soon, but it's just another
addition to the flaws of the programme's production team
in terms of not having a bleeding clue about how not to produce
a television programme, or breakfast television overall for that matter.
It's no use asking for Roland Rat or Timmy Mallett to come back
because with most revivals, they've failed to capture the charm
that they had in their heyday.
Crossroads being a major example in the last decade.
It's not just this, but several more personal issues that are getting to me.
Dog owners who are more vicious than the mongrels themsleves as
I found out on the way to CSR, negativity on the Jinglemad forums
which thankfully seems to be finally getting dealt with,
and the usual bugbears of finding a money earner.
A Mock The Week marathon will be on the cards for tonight,
as I'm bloody well dying to be cheered up.
And possibly an Inbetweeners marathon to follow.
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Animated Debate
I spent the majority of today at the "Anifest" event at the rather nifty
Augustine building of Christ Church College where I was lucky enough
to arrive early and get a day pass.
The first talk came from one of the animators of "Wallace And Gromit In The Curse Of The Were Rabbit" which showed some early storyboards
and rushes from both that and the television follow up "A Matter Of Loaf
And Death".
Judging by the comments in the Q&A which were mostly from younger
attendees, everyone agreed that "The Wrong Trousers" remains on
top of the films with the plasticine duo.
Although the animators aren't supposed to call it plasticine.
The next talk I went to involved the children of Oliver Postgate and
Peter Firmin, including Peter's daughter Emily who was the girl
who brought Bagpuss to life.
I managed to get a photo with her afterwards and she was really
delightful.
The talk involved a few clips, including one that until last year
hadn't been shown on television for over 40 years.
That being the witch from Pogles Wood who was banned by the BBC
after frightening younger children, although I found the scene
hilarious.
To complement Ian Jones' Daybreak post about TV people in the present day
not taking notice of past mistakes, three years ago, CBeebies made
the ill-informed decision to repeat the mid 90s CBBC series "Monster Cafe"
on their channel.
Although it barely seemed scary to over 6 year olds,
scheduling it on a channel aimed at the lowest age possible
resulted in complaints from parents and the show swiftly removed
from the channel.
The highlight of the festival was "An Evening With Phill Jupitus"
where a pyjama clad Phill, along with Emma Kennedy dressed as
Bugs Bunny showcased 10 of their favourite short classic cartoons
including "What's Opera Doc", "Feed The Kitty", and a superb
Foghorn Leghorn cartoon called "Broken Leghorn".
A couple of familiar faces were there including CSR's O/B
producer James Stokell, and Eloise a student from my AVCE
college course who I haven't seen for seven years.
I had a short chat to her afterwards although I didn't
mention her "birthday present" which even just thinking
about it makes me feel sick.
To top it off I got a photo with Phill and Emma who
were superb, although Emma told me off for not repeating
"AIOTM!" at her, after mentioning that I would be going to
see it next week co-starring Richard Herring.
It was nice of them to let me sit with them on the specially
positioned sofa as well.
None of today's proceedings got in the way of tonight's
X Factor where despite the absence of Gamu, I was pleased
to see Paije and Diva Fever brought back.
Wagner was the stand out however and as he doesn't take himself
too seriously without being irritating, he'll be one to watch.
As I type I'm listneing to Five Live where Stephen Nolan is interviewing
Dan Wooton from the News Of The World who has managed to
get an interview with the girl who's dominating the show
despite not starring in it.
Wooton's rightly mentioned that any thoughts on not getting
through to the show are completely washed out, compared
to worries about visas and all the attention around her
for the wrong reasons.
This issue won't be leaving us for a while, regardless
of those who despise the show.
Augustine building of Christ Church College where I was lucky enough
to arrive early and get a day pass.
The first talk came from one of the animators of "Wallace And Gromit In The Curse Of The Were Rabbit" which showed some early storyboards
and rushes from both that and the television follow up "A Matter Of Loaf
And Death".
Judging by the comments in the Q&A which were mostly from younger
attendees, everyone agreed that "The Wrong Trousers" remains on
top of the films with the plasticine duo.
Although the animators aren't supposed to call it plasticine.
The next talk I went to involved the children of Oliver Postgate and
Peter Firmin, including Peter's daughter Emily who was the girl
who brought Bagpuss to life.
I managed to get a photo with her afterwards and she was really
delightful.
The talk involved a few clips, including one that until last year
hadn't been shown on television for over 40 years.
That being the witch from Pogles Wood who was banned by the BBC
after frightening younger children, although I found the scene
hilarious.
To complement Ian Jones' Daybreak post about TV people in the present day
not taking notice of past mistakes, three years ago, CBeebies made
the ill-informed decision to repeat the mid 90s CBBC series "Monster Cafe"
on their channel.
Although it barely seemed scary to over 6 year olds,
scheduling it on a channel aimed at the lowest age possible
resulted in complaints from parents and the show swiftly removed
from the channel.
The highlight of the festival was "An Evening With Phill Jupitus"
where a pyjama clad Phill, along with Emma Kennedy dressed as
Bugs Bunny showcased 10 of their favourite short classic cartoons
including "What's Opera Doc", "Feed The Kitty", and a superb
Foghorn Leghorn cartoon called "Broken Leghorn".
A couple of familiar faces were there including CSR's O/B
producer James Stokell, and Eloise a student from my AVCE
college course who I haven't seen for seven years.
I had a short chat to her afterwards although I didn't
mention her "birthday present" which even just thinking
about it makes me feel sick.
To top it off I got a photo with Phill and Emma who
were superb, although Emma told me off for not repeating
"AIOTM!" at her, after mentioning that I would be going to
see it next week co-starring Richard Herring.
It was nice of them to let me sit with them on the specially
positioned sofa as well.
None of today's proceedings got in the way of tonight's
X Factor where despite the absence of Gamu, I was pleased
to see Paije and Diva Fever brought back.
Wagner was the stand out however and as he doesn't take himself
too seriously without being irritating, he'll be one to watch.
As I type I'm listneing to Five Live where Stephen Nolan is interviewing
Dan Wooton from the News Of The World who has managed to
get an interview with the girl who's dominating the show
despite not starring in it.
Wooton's rightly mentioned that any thoughts on not getting
through to the show are completely washed out, compared
to worries about visas and all the attention around her
for the wrong reasons.
This issue won't be leaving us for a while, regardless
of those who despise the show.
Friday, October 08, 2010
Taking The X
Still pretty bogged down on the writing side of things, but I did go
over to Ashford as planned and attended a CSR meeting later on.
Not sure how I'll manage this weekend but I'm pretty certain that
I'll need a fuck of a lot of impressing from the first live show of
The X Factor which will probably be the last time I watch the show
for quite a while, due to the blandness of most of the finalists
taking part this year.
Already there are rumours that Cheryl Cole has disowned her group
over rumours that Nicole Scherzinger is to take a place on the panel
this year.
As for Dannii Minogue, it looks like her aim for her boys is to
get as many people as possible to match her lack of personality.
I can see things running into the ground very badly.
over to Ashford as planned and attended a CSR meeting later on.
Not sure how I'll manage this weekend but I'm pretty certain that
I'll need a fuck of a lot of impressing from the first live show of
The X Factor which will probably be the last time I watch the show
for quite a while, due to the blandness of most of the finalists
taking part this year.
Already there are rumours that Cheryl Cole has disowned her group
over rumours that Nicole Scherzinger is to take a place on the panel
this year.
As for Dannii Minogue, it looks like her aim for her boys is to
get as many people as possible to match her lack of personality.
I can see things running into the ground very badly.
Thursday, October 07, 2010
A Lifetime Supply Of Buckets Needed
Again nothing memorable has happened today, apart from heading into
Tesco to get a few extra wares.
Tomorrow will see me making my final visit to the A.S. social group
in Ashford as at the end of the month they're starting one in Canterbury
and I would ideally want to save every penny I can on train fares.
Which is a bit rich (pardon the pun) considering I spend more bob
going back to London every month.
The big problem is finding something that will get me more money
that what I'm getting now and if I'm not careful I could end up
going spare.
Either that, or I need to have more guts when it comes to
taking on touchy subjects.
The main aim is to find a job that I can be left to get on with
without having to deal with people on an ongoing basis,
but that could possibly be interpreted as cleaning toilets.
To be honest, the whole process makes me physically sick
but hopefully next week's mock interview will sort things out.
Tesco to get a few extra wares.
Tomorrow will see me making my final visit to the A.S. social group
in Ashford as at the end of the month they're starting one in Canterbury
and I would ideally want to save every penny I can on train fares.
Which is a bit rich (pardon the pun) considering I spend more bob
going back to London every month.
The big problem is finding something that will get me more money
that what I'm getting now and if I'm not careful I could end up
going spare.
Either that, or I need to have more guts when it comes to
taking on touchy subjects.
The main aim is to find a job that I can be left to get on with
without having to deal with people on an ongoing basis,
but that could possibly be interpreted as cleaning toilets.
To be honest, the whole process makes me physically sick
but hopefully next week's mock interview will sort things out.
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
Sucked Up Sugar
The singles chart has been plunged into disarray with both the clean
and explicit versions of Cee-Lo Green's "Fuck You" both in the iTunes charts.
It will be interesting to see how that affects the Top 40, but of course,
I won't get to hear it live myself on the Sunday.
At this point I must be one of very few people who can't be arsed
about the new series of The Apprentice.
Lord Sugar is clearly a charisma vacuum, and having seen him
earlier tonight on The One Show, he clearly makes former host
Adrian Chiles look like Michael McIntyre.
On that note TV Cream have once again proved a few points that
I'm too thick to work out myself, in this fantastic article
about ITV's Daybreak.
The point that nails the show perfectly is that ITV have fallen
under the illusion that it's presenters are bigger than the programme
which is one of the many errors the company are making, not to
mention the shutting down of Cosgrove Hall animation earlier this year.
Seriously, as the late Jeremy Beadle once stated, the guys at
TV Cream could definitely do a better job as TV insiders
as they actually have knowledge of previous mistakes
that ITV and the BBC seem to be remaking.
and explicit versions of Cee-Lo Green's "Fuck You" both in the iTunes charts.
It will be interesting to see how that affects the Top 40, but of course,
I won't get to hear it live myself on the Sunday.
At this point I must be one of very few people who can't be arsed
about the new series of The Apprentice.
Lord Sugar is clearly a charisma vacuum, and having seen him
earlier tonight on The One Show, he clearly makes former host
Adrian Chiles look like Michael McIntyre.
On that note TV Cream have once again proved a few points that
I'm too thick to work out myself, in this fantastic article
about ITV's Daybreak.
The point that nails the show perfectly is that ITV have fallen
under the illusion that it's presenters are bigger than the programme
which is one of the many errors the company are making, not to
mention the shutting down of Cosgrove Hall animation earlier this year.
Seriously, as the late Jeremy Beadle once stated, the guys at
TV Cream could definitely do a better job as TV insiders
as they actually have knowledge of previous mistakes
that ITV and the BBC seem to be remaking.
Tuesday, October 05, 2010
Doing A "Brown"
Once again, today's not been that exciting in terms of being worthy of a blog post.
Although it's easy for others to question if anything on here is worthy of
such a thing.
Tonight's Daily Show was good however where one of the show's targets
Rick Sanchez from CNN, was sacked from the broadcaster after saying
last week in a radio interview that he thought Jon Stewart was a bigot
and lambasting the apparent influence on Jewish people running
broadcast media in America.
The best part was a well put together video montage of Rick Sanchez
with Steve Carrell in the office down to their identical mannerisms.
I may make myself productive tomorrow as there's no fizzy
stuff to drink.
I can manage without a daily consumption of booze, but without
the soft stuff? That's pretty much impossible.
Although it's easy for others to question if anything on here is worthy of
such a thing.
Tonight's Daily Show was good however where one of the show's targets
Rick Sanchez from CNN, was sacked from the broadcaster after saying
last week in a radio interview that he thought Jon Stewart was a bigot
and lambasting the apparent influence on Jewish people running
broadcast media in America.
The best part was a well put together video montage of Rick Sanchez
with Steve Carrell in the office down to their identical mannerisms.
I may make myself productive tomorrow as there's no fizzy
stuff to drink.
I can manage without a daily consumption of booze, but without
the soft stuff? That's pretty much impossible.
Monday, October 04, 2010
"Don't Get Uptight With Me"
The Inbetweeners was hilarious tonight, mainly for the "bedroom accident"
which reminded me of Danny's doll from Withnail And I.
And I could fully identify with those Uni students and Will's perception
of their drunk talk being "a foreign language".
With two more episodes to go, I'm hoping it goes out in style.
Not sure about what I'll be up to tomorrow, although the Radio Times
is out so that will probably kill a bit of time.
Apart from that it's the usual case of job searching and writing stuff down.
On a rather sad note, the comedian Norman Wisdom has died at 95.
One of my favourite moments involved an out-take involving Paul Shane
where both of them were dressed up in Wild West attire and Wisdom forgot
his lines;
PS: "Whatta yer doin' in Deadwood stranger?"
NW: "I'm havin' a wank..."
Definitely one of the long living greats.
which reminded me of Danny's doll from Withnail And I.
And I could fully identify with those Uni students and Will's perception
of their drunk talk being "a foreign language".
With two more episodes to go, I'm hoping it goes out in style.
Not sure about what I'll be up to tomorrow, although the Radio Times
is out so that will probably kill a bit of time.
Apart from that it's the usual case of job searching and writing stuff down.
On a rather sad note, the comedian Norman Wisdom has died at 95.
One of my favourite moments involved an out-take involving Paul Shane
where both of them were dressed up in Wild West attire and Wisdom forgot
his lines;
PS: "Whatta yer doin' in Deadwood stranger?"
NW: "I'm havin' a wank..."
Definitely one of the long living greats.
The Face Behind The Voice
Further proof that preservation pays off, with Steve Wright assisting
Schofe with the Prize Picks on a 1989 episode of Going Live!
with a human likeness of his Radio 1 character Dickie.
Dickie in fact happens to be played by the ultra talented Peter Dixon
now heard on many a TV and radio show although it's a shame that
most clients prefer to use him for his Patrick Allen impression
that's ever dominant on The X Factor, Live At The Apollo,
Scott Mills, and Hirsty's Daily Dose on Capital FM, I mean Galaxy 105.
Here in the above clip, Peter proves he's capable of a lot more
as just one of the many characters played on Steve's Radio 1
afternoon show.
It more or less proves that "the voice" has appeared in possibly
all of my favourite programmes on television, including Steve's
gunging on Noel's House Party 5 years later.
I'll make no secret in saying that Steve Wright is probably
my biggest radio influence, as I seem to have adapted many
of his production techniques over the last 5 years I've been
trying to get the hang of radio presenting.
He may be a shadow of his past self, but it was definitely
the most spontaneous radio I had heard at it's height,
and Scott Mills has a lot to answer for in that timeslot.
Schofe with the Prize Picks on a 1989 episode of Going Live!
with a human likeness of his Radio 1 character Dickie.
Dickie in fact happens to be played by the ultra talented Peter Dixon
now heard on many a TV and radio show although it's a shame that
most clients prefer to use him for his Patrick Allen impression
that's ever dominant on The X Factor, Live At The Apollo,
Scott Mills, and Hirsty's Daily Dose on Capital FM, I mean Galaxy 105.
Here in the above clip, Peter proves he's capable of a lot more
as just one of the many characters played on Steve's Radio 1
afternoon show.
It more or less proves that "the voice" has appeared in possibly
all of my favourite programmes on television, including Steve's
gunging on Noel's House Party 5 years later.
I'll make no secret in saying that Steve Wright is probably
my biggest radio influence, as I seem to have adapted many
of his production techniques over the last 5 years I've been
trying to get the hang of radio presenting.
He may be a shadow of his past self, but it was definitely
the most spontaneous radio I had heard at it's height,
and Scott Mills has a lot to answer for in that timeslot.
Sunday, October 03, 2010
The W*nk Factor
An OKish show tonight, where I hope I didn't do too much heavy breathing.
It may be an idea to start sitting down to present again,
but standing up allows gives you the literal ability to think on your feet.
I managed to catch the end of tonight's X Factor and it has to be
the least memorable line up that I have seen.
Dannii and Cheryl proved to be fucking useless with Dannii in
particular picking those who matched her premise of having very little
personality in them.
Cheryl meanwhile disposed of the gorgeous Gamu, and picked a girl
who has slept with an Apprentice finalist, and a woman who messed
up her performance in the crucial stage of the show.
To paraphrase 1Xtra's Mistajam, it was probably because Cheryl
didn't want anyone in her category that reminded her of the toilet
attendant she punched 7 years ago.
Louis being the consistent tosspot he is, chose pretentiously named
Storm Lee within his over 28s who has now had a makeover to look
like Annie Lennox.
I am definitely looking forward to the reaction on tomorrow's edition
of This Morning and the gutter press, although I'm fully certain
that the big twist on next week's live show is the wildcard element
as used on series 2 of Pop Idol.
With a two and a half hour show on Saturday, we'll see who's wrong.
It may be an idea to start sitting down to present again,
but standing up allows gives you the literal ability to think on your feet.
I managed to catch the end of tonight's X Factor and it has to be
the least memorable line up that I have seen.
Dannii and Cheryl proved to be fucking useless with Dannii in
particular picking those who matched her premise of having very little
personality in them.
Cheryl meanwhile disposed of the gorgeous Gamu, and picked a girl
who has slept with an Apprentice finalist, and a woman who messed
up her performance in the crucial stage of the show.
To paraphrase 1Xtra's Mistajam, it was probably because Cheryl
didn't want anyone in her category that reminded her of the toilet
attendant she punched 7 years ago.
Louis being the consistent tosspot he is, chose pretentiously named
Storm Lee within his over 28s who has now had a makeover to look
like Annie Lennox.
I am definitely looking forward to the reaction on tomorrow's edition
of This Morning and the gutter press, although I'm fully certain
that the big twist on next week's live show is the wildcard element
as used on series 2 of Pop Idol.
With a two and a half hour show on Saturday, we'll see who's wrong.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Strung Out Singing
With the judges houses stage of The X Factor currently being screened
I realised that there are more productive things to be doing than
watching what appears to be the TV equivalent of Groundhog Day.
Having said that, next week's Saturday edition is set to last two and
a half hours making it the longest ever edition of the show,
including last year's Grand Final.
I'm still writing my "chronicle" if you can call it that, on Saturday mornings
and it's still going really quickly, although there should soon be a stop to that
once I start having a gander at the videos.
I may take a short break to see tonight's episode of Michael McIntyre's
Comedy Roadshow coming from Blackpool this week and the welcome
return of John Bishop as the headliner.
According to his Twitter, John's also on the new series of Apollo starting
later in the year, alongside other top funnymen including Dara O'Briain,
Sean Lock, and Lenny Henry making a return to the show.
I'm seeing Sean Lock later in the month as part of the Canterbury
festival where I'm hoping he'll be even ruder than he is on
8 Out Of 10 Cats.
I'll need to stop taking pages out of his book.
I realised that there are more productive things to be doing than
watching what appears to be the TV equivalent of Groundhog Day.
Having said that, next week's Saturday edition is set to last two and
a half hours making it the longest ever edition of the show,
including last year's Grand Final.
I'm still writing my "chronicle" if you can call it that, on Saturday mornings
and it's still going really quickly, although there should soon be a stop to that
once I start having a gander at the videos.
I may take a short break to see tonight's episode of Michael McIntyre's
Comedy Roadshow coming from Blackpool this week and the welcome
return of John Bishop as the headliner.
According to his Twitter, John's also on the new series of Apollo starting
later in the year, alongside other top funnymen including Dara O'Briain,
Sean Lock, and Lenny Henry making a return to the show.
I'm seeing Sean Lock later in the month as part of the Canterbury
festival where I'm hoping he'll be even ruder than he is on
8 Out Of 10 Cats.
I'll need to stop taking pages out of his book.
Friday, October 01, 2010
"Looking Back It's So Bizarre"
8 Out Of 10 Cats tonight reached the same sort of humour levels
as last night's Mock The Week, by being pretty low on the laugh thermometer.
It's not exactly been a slow news week with Ed Milliband unveiled
as the new Labour leader and behind schedule construction
of the Commonwealth Games, but instead they opted to talk
about David Beckham and The X Factor which haven't exactly
been dominating the headlines as much.
I'm hoping that this is a blip in the halfway stage of the series
but it was probably because the guests they got on were rather
flat with Vanessa Feltz contributing the exact opposite of her
body weight in terms of funny gags.
It's not all been bad tonight, as I ended up being one of the
lucky seven chosen on KMFM to go and see Level 42 at the Winter Gardens
in Margate on the 20th of this month.
It's normally the case that I tend to see the band performing live
at this time of the year every two years, and to see them in the
county where I've pretty much grown up hearing them on the radio
is going to be quite something.
In fact it was probably hearing their records on the taxi back
from school 11 years ago that started the whole obsession off.
as last night's Mock The Week, by being pretty low on the laugh thermometer.
It's not exactly been a slow news week with Ed Milliband unveiled
as the new Labour leader and behind schedule construction
of the Commonwealth Games, but instead they opted to talk
about David Beckham and The X Factor which haven't exactly
been dominating the headlines as much.
I'm hoping that this is a blip in the halfway stage of the series
but it was probably because the guests they got on were rather
flat with Vanessa Feltz contributing the exact opposite of her
body weight in terms of funny gags.
It's not all been bad tonight, as I ended up being one of the
lucky seven chosen on KMFM to go and see Level 42 at the Winter Gardens
in Margate on the 20th of this month.
It's normally the case that I tend to see the band performing live
at this time of the year every two years, and to see them in the
county where I've pretty much grown up hearing them on the radio
is going to be quite something.
In fact it was probably hearing their records on the taxi back
from school 11 years ago that started the whole obsession off.
"Who Knows What They Know?"
Into October, and I've managed to avoid the usual injuries at this stage
of the month.
The days seem to be getting more and more emptier and any signs
of purpose are becoming more distant than ever.
But being stuck in a house with a complete lack of motivation
is just part of the problem.
KMFM's 80s Show this week are giving away tickets to one of my
favourite bands, Level 42 who will be performing at Margate's Winter Gardens.
I've had a go at guessing the lyrics to one of their tunes
but speaking to the lovely Kirsten was quite fun in itself
and I've seen the band perform live twice before
so I'm not too worried about the outcome.
Then again it is their 30th anniversary so it's definitely
an occasion worth celebrating.
of the month.
The days seem to be getting more and more emptier and any signs
of purpose are becoming more distant than ever.
But being stuck in a house with a complete lack of motivation
is just part of the problem.
KMFM's 80s Show this week are giving away tickets to one of my
favourite bands, Level 42 who will be performing at Margate's Winter Gardens.
I've had a go at guessing the lyrics to one of their tunes
but speaking to the lovely Kirsten was quite fun in itself
and I've seen the band perform live twice before
so I'm not too worried about the outcome.
Then again it is their 30th anniversary so it's definitely
an occasion worth celebrating.
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