Almost reaching the end of my aural journey and the latter half of S(4)S where we were literally just mucking about. Goodlass and Marshall's show ended up including a voicemail sent from Ross G to Ricky at 4:30am in a badly drunk manner requesting he didn't want to record their show for the Friday at 10am!
Also on offer was Steve's final Sports Show rounding off the season with all the correspondents and followed by a really well produced look back at the Rimini tour from the previous month.
Well that was the plan, but unfortunately half the guests turned up after the live half hour as they'd been delayed on the tube on the way up to the campus!
Overall this show managed to reinvent itself this year as a showcase for the Sports teams on campus and gave them a voice which I'm hoping will continue into next year.
The Shuffle boys also made their bow that Thursday evening with a "Sunny Side Up" special with the final song being "Holidays In The Sun" by the Sex Pistols. The whole excitement and participation did lead to things getting rather emotional towards the end of the week but I reckon I pulled through.
However in the last month I've been working my way up to what I reckon was the best show I've ever done, "Sun Sea And Soul" which was partly due to Sam being a top notch co host who has to be the best I've worked with to date.
It could have been totally different as I was going to have the baby girl of the team,
Kelly helping out but after hiding in a cardboard box on the courtyard that afternoon, by 7pm she was terribly knackered. However Sam told me she liked the music I was playing in the Undercroft on the Monday and it was only fair that she had some sort of on air role that week.
Having a studio full of balloons definitely added to the proceedings and we decided to deal with them in the noisiest way possible!
I'm also sure I caught Miss Impey softly humming the brass riff from "Everyday" when I played the record towards the end of the show!
The final record played happened to be the first one on that dreaded Refreshers Show right at the start of the year; Mistura and "Think Positive" which is simply incredible and I'd say is one of the most important tunes played on the show.
If I get round to it I'll probably put a few of the links from that show on a future post so you can hear just how irritating we really were.
Overall it's evident that most of the presenters sounded really sad to be finishing their shows for the academic year but that's a good thing. It proves that we had people who really cared about their shows even if some of them only lasted around 5 weeks towards the end of the year (not including the 6 week break between April and May).
It will be our job as a team to continue this next year and we'll do our best to make sure that no one will be left in the dark.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Awarding Innovation
So the Mercury 2007 nominees have been announced and there's a great selection of nominees. Included are Dundee rockers The View who have grabbed my attention with their witty numbers as well as Amy Winehouse who's second album has definitely grown on me over the last year. Ken Bruce on Radio 2 earlier was playing the brilliant "Tears Dry On Their Own" based on "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and that's definitely my favourite on the album.
Also nominated are The Young Knives who I have Adam from the Shuffle show at Smoke to thank for introducing me to their 70s punk esque tunes.
However this reminds me in 2002 when a local radio station made this quote on the day of the awards "Yes today's the Mercury Music Awards, Good luck to Miss Dynamite"
Just pathetic really and it shows how in some places people just aren't listening or expanding.
Lonnie Liston Smith was definitely right about "expanding your mind". I must buy more of his LPs as he's one of the pioneeers of jazz funk.
Also nominated are The Young Knives who I have Adam from the Shuffle show at Smoke to thank for introducing me to their 70s punk esque tunes.
However this reminds me in 2002 when a local radio station made this quote on the day of the awards "Yes today's the Mercury Music Awards, Good luck to Miss Dynamite"
Just pathetic really and it shows how in some places people just aren't listening or expanding.
Lonnie Liston Smith was definitely right about "expanding your mind". I must buy more of his LPs as he's one of the pioneeers of jazz funk.
"It's Just Coming Up To 12:45!"
I can't keep it to myself for any longer, this Thursday I'm returning for a short visit to London where on the Friday I'll be visiting "Britain's Favourite" radio news team.
Yes I'll be making a visit to BBC Radio 1 and having a look round to see how the pros do everything and retain the role as the UK's foremost pop music station around the UK and more specifically at the goings on at Newsbeat with a certain Ross T!
I'm just going to look at it as any other visit but I know it's something very special and will keep in mind the old phrase "you don't mess with a winner!"
This is one of if not the longest running news programmes on radio and whilst there's fresh talent on board such as the stunning Georgina Bowman, there are also established pros including the chief Rod McKenzie, who I can remember seeing an awful lot in the BBC's Fast Forward magazine when he was part of Simon Mayo's Breakfast Crew in the early 90s.
For the record it's definitely going to be a much anticipated visit.
As for today I've brought some delicious (well I don't know for sure because I haven't tried them) rye and sultana scones or whatever they're called from Morrisons and have been busy with all sorts of other things too. I've now got more of an awareness to be careful of brands, especially when it comes to CD-Rs.
Yes I'll be making a visit to BBC Radio 1 and having a look round to see how the pros do everything and retain the role as the UK's foremost pop music station around the UK and more specifically at the goings on at Newsbeat with a certain Ross T!
I'm just going to look at it as any other visit but I know it's something very special and will keep in mind the old phrase "you don't mess with a winner!"
This is one of if not the longest running news programmes on radio and whilst there's fresh talent on board such as the stunning Georgina Bowman, there are also established pros including the chief Rod McKenzie, who I can remember seeing an awful lot in the BBC's Fast Forward magazine when he was part of Simon Mayo's Breakfast Crew in the early 90s.
For the record it's definitely going to be a much anticipated visit.
As for today I've brought some delicious (well I don't know for sure because I haven't tried them) rye and sultana scones or whatever they're called from Morrisons and have been busy with all sorts of other things too. I've now got more of an awareness to be careful of brands, especially when it comes to CD-Rs.
Below The Duvet
I know now that the lecturers on the AVCE course really meant that any television programme could be analysed academically within reason.
This even extends to long forgotten animations including one that I probably haven't seen since it was shown on Channel 4 15 years ago. Doctor Snuggles a really cute little animation with the voices the late Peter Ustinov as the main character and
John "Boycie" Challis providing a few of the others. Looking at one particular episode with a tree thinking it can fly, there's a scene where the professor and his companions land on a planet with rather evil caricatures of sunflowers and other plants initially percieved to be pleasant but on finding that they are actually evil I start to think "woooah this could give children nightmares...".
On a similar note I can proudly say that I've never had any nightmares over any of the rather unpleasant types that appeared in Doctor Who. Although to be fair my introduction to the series was when Sylvester McCoy was in the role and I know people give him a lot of stick but the character really did develop from the rather bumbling persona in his opening episode "Time And The Rani".
However now I've come to asscociate the series with it's established Saturday evening timeslot rather than a Wednesday evening after Wogan.
This even extends to long forgotten animations including one that I probably haven't seen since it was shown on Channel 4 15 years ago. Doctor Snuggles a really cute little animation with the voices the late Peter Ustinov as the main character and
John "Boycie" Challis providing a few of the others. Looking at one particular episode with a tree thinking it can fly, there's a scene where the professor and his companions land on a planet with rather evil caricatures of sunflowers and other plants initially percieved to be pleasant but on finding that they are actually evil I start to think "woooah this could give children nightmares...".
On a similar note I can proudly say that I've never had any nightmares over any of the rather unpleasant types that appeared in Doctor Who. Although to be fair my introduction to the series was when Sylvester McCoy was in the role and I know people give him a lot of stick but the character really did develop from the rather bumbling persona in his opening episode "Time And The Rani".
However now I've come to asscociate the series with it's established Saturday evening timeslot rather than a Wednesday evening after Wogan.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Trying To Stay Smiling
I reckon it was Dad's slightly spicy spag bol that's resulted in me being less perky than usual. That and the continuing inconistency of the wireless router that I have to keep restarting. Gives me a bit of exercise I guess, running up and downstairs to sort the blighter out.
As I write this post however, things are pretty stable and in my aural journey I've now appeared to have reached my 22nd birthday. Chris Jones' guest that day was none other than "The Tudor" which turned out to be even more bizarre and random than my stint the previous day.
This was illustrated to a slight bias towards the rockier tracks on the station playlist and the French version of the A Team theme.
I'm now realising however that it's not negative people that result in my creative mind going blank. However I reckon a visit (well it certainly seems like a visit) to my bookshelf will solve a few things.
As I write this post however, things are pretty stable and in my aural journey I've now appeared to have reached my 22nd birthday. Chris Jones' guest that day was none other than "The Tudor" which turned out to be even more bizarre and random than my stint the previous day.
This was illustrated to a slight bias towards the rockier tracks on the station playlist and the French version of the A Team theme.
I'm now realising however that it's not negative people that result in my creative mind going blank. However I reckon a visit (well it certainly seems like a visit) to my bookshelf will solve a few things.
Dead Man's Steps
I've had this on VHS for quite a while but was really pleased to find on Youtube
an example of great television and great radio rolled into one.
DLT's Gotcha from 1992 where his patience is put to the test by Noel Edmonds and his ever reliable team including the man who would later go on to don a pink spotty suit that would piss off so many viewers.
I'm pretty certain that they had to film the ending again because DLT ended up unleashing more four letter words than can be heard here (bleeped of course) in this clip!
The meaning behind this clip is that you have to be prepared for anything on air and deal with it with fun, which DLT does albeit unintentionally! However he's not the sort of person who likes to be wound up from what I've heard as a few loonies at a motor show decided to "decorate" his car in toilet rolls. Once again he didn't see the funny side which proves that even off air you have to be yourself and not be afraid to put yourself up for a right old ribbing.
If you make yourself look or sound stupid then people will well and truly ridicule you.
an example of great television and great radio rolled into one.
DLT's Gotcha from 1992 where his patience is put to the test by Noel Edmonds and his ever reliable team including the man who would later go on to don a pink spotty suit that would piss off so many viewers.
I'm pretty certain that they had to film the ending again because DLT ended up unleashing more four letter words than can be heard here (bleeped of course) in this clip!
The meaning behind this clip is that you have to be prepared for anything on air and deal with it with fun, which DLT does albeit unintentionally! However he's not the sort of person who likes to be wound up from what I've heard as a few loonies at a motor show decided to "decorate" his car in toilet rolls. Once again he didn't see the funny side which proves that even off air you have to be yourself and not be afraid to put yourself up for a right old ribbing.
If you make yourself look or sound stupid then people will well and truly ridicule you.
A Fine Tuneout
As promised I've posted up a few of the cuts from one of the worst re-sung jingle packages I've known. Wyvern FM by MMI also based in Worcestershire from 1996 along with the original cuts from Belfast station Cool FM preceeding each one.
In all fairness MMI were never that original with their jingles as the ones in this montage are clear rip offs of the Steamroller cuts by Century 21 that were in the Invicta FM package I uploaded a few days ago. Sometimes it could sound great but in Wyvern's case it's very much a rush job with badly sung and badly positioned vocals for the station name.
In fact Jon Wolfert at JAM had a few words to say when the company did a very obvious rip off of his Xmas jingle from the Turbo Z package for Birmingham's BRMB!
They're not the only ones as this example from Edinburgh's Radio Forth
(RFM as they were known then, why?) in 1991 will either resort in collapsing the chair you're sitting on, or being in tears when thinking "how could they sink so low" after hearing this.
A more recent, dare I say rather good example would be Chris Moyles after starting at Radio 1 in 1997 where he commisioned a set of piss-takes of much loved classic Radio 1 jingles although in some places, especially the last one I think they're even better than the originals. Where on Earth is Glasgow Square anyway?
It's all a bit of fun though and I know that both him and Jon Wolfert are on good terms getting his permission to use the original JAM jingles when resurrecting Simon Bates' "Golden Hour" a couple of years ago.
An anorak in denial if ever there was one.
In all fairness MMI were never that original with their jingles as the ones in this montage are clear rip offs of the Steamroller cuts by Century 21 that were in the Invicta FM package I uploaded a few days ago. Sometimes it could sound great but in Wyvern's case it's very much a rush job with badly sung and badly positioned vocals for the station name.
In fact Jon Wolfert at JAM had a few words to say when the company did a very obvious rip off of his Xmas jingle from the Turbo Z package for Birmingham's BRMB!
They're not the only ones as this example from Edinburgh's Radio Forth
(RFM as they were known then, why?) in 1991 will either resort in collapsing the chair you're sitting on, or being in tears when thinking "how could they sink so low" after hearing this.
A more recent, dare I say rather good example would be Chris Moyles after starting at Radio 1 in 1997 where he commisioned a set of piss-takes of much loved classic Radio 1 jingles although in some places, especially the last one I think they're even better than the originals. Where on Earth is Glasgow Square anyway?
It's all a bit of fun though and I know that both him and Jon Wolfert are on good terms getting his permission to use the original JAM jingles when resurrecting Simon Bates' "Golden Hour" a couple of years ago.
An anorak in denial if ever there was one.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Kicking Off With A Storm
The weather outside is at it's most insane this year. It's throwing it down like mental but at the same time it's bloody boiling.
It doesn't feel like a Sunday night however as the date on my calendar is still in the third week of May and the continuing excitement of S04S which could be
pretty dangerous at times.
Especially during Goodlass and Marshall's show where "LA reporter" Miles Blayden-Ryall came out with some of the most cutting remarks live on air which can't be repeated on this blog!
Earlier on I was the first of Chris Jones' special guest presenters which had been put into the schedule as a result of Dan P walking out at the last minute.
I can remember Chris being gutted when he found out, but the first show went really well and he had no problem with me driving the desk and having a more dominant role than him.
Later on I got sent down to the Undercroft to provide a series of live reports for Goodlass and Marshall and drank a few things I wouldn't normally drink.
However whilst all the excitement was continuing there were still a few evening presenters who hadn't turned up to record their shows for that week and two of them happened to be the lovely Dry Ice girls who ended up ringing me at around 5:45pm
that day just over 3 hours before air!
We agreed however that it would be best not to go ahead with recording the programme which was a shame but at least it prevented any disruption to the proceedings going on that evening.
I'm confident that if people "pull their fingers out" then we'll be able to provide a consistent service throughout the whole of 2007/2008 and because I have a question for every move made then my essays shouldn't be a problem neither.
It doesn't feel like a Sunday night however as the date on my calendar is still in the third week of May and the continuing excitement of S04S which could be
pretty dangerous at times.
Especially during Goodlass and Marshall's show where "LA reporter" Miles Blayden-Ryall came out with some of the most cutting remarks live on air which can't be repeated on this blog!
Earlier on I was the first of Chris Jones' special guest presenters which had been put into the schedule as a result of Dan P walking out at the last minute.
I can remember Chris being gutted when he found out, but the first show went really well and he had no problem with me driving the desk and having a more dominant role than him.
Later on I got sent down to the Undercroft to provide a series of live reports for Goodlass and Marshall and drank a few things I wouldn't normally drink.
However whilst all the excitement was continuing there were still a few evening presenters who hadn't turned up to record their shows for that week and two of them happened to be the lovely Dry Ice girls who ended up ringing me at around 5:45pm
that day just over 3 hours before air!
We agreed however that it would be best not to go ahead with recording the programme which was a shame but at least it prevented any disruption to the proceedings going on that evening.
I'm confident that if people "pull their fingers out" then we'll be able to provide a consistent service throughout the whole of 2007/2008 and because I have a question for every move made then my essays shouldn't be a problem neither.
The Wow Factor
I've finally reached the high point of my aural journey at the beginning of the phenomenom that was "Smoke's Out 4 Summer". First links really do count and getting Phil Harris and Chris Chilvers to kick things off with "The Wake Up Call" was the right idea with their enthusiasm coming out right from the beginning. The show evolved throughout the week with help from Matthew and the rest of the team but this proved that we'd come a hell of a long way throughout the year and the rest of the schedule was to follow in that same way.
I'll probably write down a few more anecdotes in future posts but one thing that I'm really glad we achieved was that we got everyone and I mean everyone involved.
And to prove it a selection of calls from the "Cash 4 Cash" feature where Phil and Chris would ring up their mates and they'd be expected to sing the trumpet riff from
"Ring Of Fire" as soon as they lifted up the phone. Some of the voices include a certain newsreader from Edinburgh and a former co-host of the hairy member of the team!
I'd love to do my own take on that feature "Cash 4 Cog" where the victims would have to sing the brass riff from the band's hit "Everyday" which I'm going to get in the heads of everyone round campus next year!
Seriously we really don't need to make any drastic changes in September but continue reinforcing and reworking ideas, keep evolving and never lose the passion.
It's that easy to stay focused.
I'll probably write down a few more anecdotes in future posts but one thing that I'm really glad we achieved was that we got everyone and I mean everyone involved.
And to prove it a selection of calls from the "Cash 4 Cash" feature where Phil and Chris would ring up their mates and they'd be expected to sing the trumpet riff from
"Ring Of Fire" as soon as they lifted up the phone. Some of the voices include a certain newsreader from Edinburgh and a former co-host of the hairy member of the team!
I'd love to do my own take on that feature "Cash 4 Cog" where the victims would have to sing the brass riff from the band's hit "Everyday" which I'm going to get in the heads of everyone round campus next year!
Seriously we really don't need to make any drastic changes in September but continue reinforcing and reworking ideas, keep evolving and never lose the passion.
It's that easy to stay focused.
"You'll Be Lucky If The Undertaker Turns Up!"
First it was Bob Monkhouse and now Bernard Manning has been brought back from the dead, in an obituary recorded by the man himself and shown on Channel 4 earlier this week.
This was a very well put together programme and I'd imagine Bernard was behind the concept himself revealing his true inner self and that his British heritage of the 1930s was responsible for his rather risque act. I started to realise rather worryingly how much I have in common with the Man City supporter as he seemed to live on constant happiness and always put the people first wherever he went. I've also noticed that he's slightly toned down his act in the last decade or so, mainly by sitting down to perform his act which for me made it even more initmate and was one of the key factors of the comedian.
When he told a joke he was telling it to you and not at you. There was very little use of the N-word as well as he'd altered his act so that word wasn't included and the only utterance was in an extract from the infamous World In Action documentary "Black And Blue" in 1995 where an undercover reporter recorded him doing his act at a policeman's party organised by Derek Hatton.
Another positive part of the documentary was that it made me want to be in Blackpool again! Well I've never been there before to be honest but it's somewhere I'd really love to go but not really in the weather we've got outside. Actually I said in an earlier post that there was something comforting about being in a seaside town on a rainy day.
It just goes to show my idea of being able to stay happy in all circumstances which is what Bernard lived on.
This was a very well put together programme and I'd imagine Bernard was behind the concept himself revealing his true inner self and that his British heritage of the 1930s was responsible for his rather risque act. I started to realise rather worryingly how much I have in common with the Man City supporter as he seemed to live on constant happiness and always put the people first wherever he went. I've also noticed that he's slightly toned down his act in the last decade or so, mainly by sitting down to perform his act which for me made it even more initmate and was one of the key factors of the comedian.
When he told a joke he was telling it to you and not at you. There was very little use of the N-word as well as he'd altered his act so that word wasn't included and the only utterance was in an extract from the infamous World In Action documentary "Black And Blue" in 1995 where an undercover reporter recorded him doing his act at a policeman's party organised by Derek Hatton.
Another positive part of the documentary was that it made me want to be in Blackpool again! Well I've never been there before to be honest but it's somewhere I'd really love to go but not really in the weather we've got outside. Actually I said in an earlier post that there was something comforting about being in a seaside town on a rainy day.
It just goes to show my idea of being able to stay happy in all circumstances which is what Bernard lived on.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
"If We Could Just Tinker With The Format..."
I've just sat through the second in the series of ITV1's "Sing It Back" where contestants have to sing back the lyrics of songs on the spot in your typical pressure cooker atmosphere that is apparently one of the vital elements of a gameshow these days.
JK and Joel are competent as presenters but they are let down by a format which could be resolved by just a few minor changes. For instance there's no tension for two reasons, firstly because before we see the contestant go up to the mic they show a VT interview of them reflecting on how it felt "well I used to listen to Pulp loads when I was in school so I knew I'd get this right".
And we know if a contestant is going to be right because the noise signifying a correct answer starts off with a drone building up in the background removing the immediate excitement.
JK and Joel hosting the show reminds me that Ant & Dec are probably an example of the category of being great on television but not so great on radio. They've never had a regular show but I've heard them do one offs for both Radio 1 and Capital FM and they sound even more scripted on t'wireless.
But when it comes to television they've definitely come a long way and I can understand a bit more now why they won a lifetime achievement award at the National Television Awards in 2002! To be honest though I nearly did break down at the time mainly due to the montage using Bill Wither's "Just The Two Of Us".
Seeing Ant getting shot in the eye with a paintball however causes reactions of a different sort!
JK and Joel are competent as presenters but they are let down by a format which could be resolved by just a few minor changes. For instance there's no tension for two reasons, firstly because before we see the contestant go up to the mic they show a VT interview of them reflecting on how it felt "well I used to listen to Pulp loads when I was in school so I knew I'd get this right".
And we know if a contestant is going to be right because the noise signifying a correct answer starts off with a drone building up in the background removing the immediate excitement.
JK and Joel hosting the show reminds me that Ant & Dec are probably an example of the category of being great on television but not so great on radio. They've never had a regular show but I've heard them do one offs for both Radio 1 and Capital FM and they sound even more scripted on t'wireless.
But when it comes to television they've definitely come a long way and I can understand a bit more now why they won a lifetime achievement award at the National Television Awards in 2002! To be honest though I nearly did break down at the time mainly due to the montage using Bill Wither's "Just The Two Of Us".
Seeing Ant getting shot in the eye with a paintball however causes reactions of a different sort!
The "C-Word"
I'm in a ranting mood again, and I'm sure many you have been in the same situation as I have throughout life.
Whenver a hand out is given in a radio lecturer Matthew always asks a member of the class to read it and without naming names, most of them read it in a monotonous manner.
Come On! This is a radio course for goodness sake and communication is a vital element of the business.
To be fair though I'm starting to understand that when reading things out loud,
don't overdo it or show off but sound like you are interested what you are reading even if you aren't neccesarily. It's not difficult to do if you have a passion for communication.
And people are going to know when you're bulshitting or not, all through the tone of your voice.
If I was to do the Introduction To Broadcasting module next year I reckon I'd be a lot more passionate than in the first year although from a beginners point of view I do think it was rather intimidating. Hopefully they'll take the motion made in one of last year's course comittee meetings to allow the radio lot to get to know each other at least a month before practical lectures commence.
I know how it felt to be left out in the first year and there's no fucking way I want people starting this year to feel the same.
Whenver a hand out is given in a radio lecturer Matthew always asks a member of the class to read it and without naming names, most of them read it in a monotonous manner.
Come On! This is a radio course for goodness sake and communication is a vital element of the business.
To be fair though I'm starting to understand that when reading things out loud,
don't overdo it or show off but sound like you are interested what you are reading even if you aren't neccesarily. It's not difficult to do if you have a passion for communication.
And people are going to know when you're bulshitting or not, all through the tone of your voice.
If I was to do the Introduction To Broadcasting module next year I reckon I'd be a lot more passionate than in the first year although from a beginners point of view I do think it was rather intimidating. Hopefully they'll take the motion made in one of last year's course comittee meetings to allow the radio lot to get to know each other at least a month before practical lectures commence.
I know how it felt to be left out in the first year and there's no fucking way I want people starting this year to feel the same.
Annunciation Anarchy!
I've decided to re-read my copy of Essential Radio Skills and I reckon I may have started another new obsession, reading the text aloud and trying to realise the delivery the author wants it to be percieved.
By next week I could be fluent in the complete works of William Shakespeare!
I've also realised that I need to make sure that my words are pronounced correctly in the right manner by elaborating on consonants and making the vowels roll off the tounge.
That's what I noticed when comparing the Invicta FM jingle package from 1990 with one of their later packages from 2003.
The 1990 package shows how the singers based in Dallas really understood how to deliver the name of the station "InviC-Ta F-M" whilst the 2003 ones recorded in Los Angeles have it annunciated a lot softer. You know you've got a great jingle package when you take the opportunity to use it in so many different ways as the station even just used accapellas on their own as they were that strong.
Also, the fact that lots of listeners to the station can still remember the 1990 package and will sing them melody logo back proves a point as to how succesfull it was and that goes for any radio station with a succesfull jingle package. Nobody I've spoken to can remember any of the spoken liners from around 2000 "Who plays the best music?
WE DO! (we do!)".
As originally recorded by Pete Wilson, a jingle collector from Barmy Bracknell here's an interview with the man behind that great jingle package David Arnold not to be confused with the man who worked with Bjork and Moby. No, this man was responsible for quite a few catchy TV themes as well such as The Big Breakfast, Live And Kicking and the CBBC idents used from the late to mid 90s well into 2001.
It shows that they've taken what's worked in the past and adapted it for what was then the present day adding the excitement to radio.
In fact I'd say that my copy of the CD with the 1990 jingles as sold at the studios, and my Invicta FM T-shirt from around the same time are two of my proudest posessions.
I'll have to find an example of one of the most badly sung jingle packages in comparison for a later post.
By next week I could be fluent in the complete works of William Shakespeare!
I've also realised that I need to make sure that my words are pronounced correctly in the right manner by elaborating on consonants and making the vowels roll off the tounge.
That's what I noticed when comparing the Invicta FM jingle package from 1990 with one of their later packages from 2003.
The 1990 package shows how the singers based in Dallas really understood how to deliver the name of the station "InviC-Ta F-M" whilst the 2003 ones recorded in Los Angeles have it annunciated a lot softer. You know you've got a great jingle package when you take the opportunity to use it in so many different ways as the station even just used accapellas on their own as they were that strong.
Also, the fact that lots of listeners to the station can still remember the 1990 package and will sing them melody logo back proves a point as to how succesfull it was and that goes for any radio station with a succesfull jingle package. Nobody I've spoken to can remember any of the spoken liners from around 2000 "Who plays the best music?
WE DO! (we do!)".
As originally recorded by Pete Wilson, a jingle collector from Barmy Bracknell here's an interview with the man behind that great jingle package David Arnold not to be confused with the man who worked with Bjork and Moby. No, this man was responsible for quite a few catchy TV themes as well such as The Big Breakfast, Live And Kicking and the CBBC idents used from the late to mid 90s well into 2001.
It shows that they've taken what's worked in the past and adapted it for what was then the present day adding the excitement to radio.
In fact I'd say that my copy of the CD with the 1990 jingles as sold at the studios, and my Invicta FM T-shirt from around the same time are two of my proudest posessions.
I'll have to find an example of one of the most badly sung jingle packages in comparison for a later post.
Learning From Further Mistakes
Following on from my last post and Tudor's anecdote, it's all very well to laugh at synth music in this day and age but I'm starting to realise that the people who composed the tracks themselves are actually very talented musicians and orchestra leaders who have been composing music right back to the big band easy listening sounds of the 1960s.
This goes to show that if you want to get on in any industry you have to adapt and move with the times and that's exactly what these composers did and it goes for more established musicians too, such as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, and even TV and Radio presenters such as Simon Mayo, Phillip Schofield and Noel Edmonds.
The list is endless really but every one of those names I've mentioned has had a low point in their career and they're more than happy to either gloss over them or laugh back at them as they can learn from their errors and that's what quite a lot of people around me need to understand.
Then again I've been told the exact same thing by teachers, lecturers, people who want others to do well basically. There will always be critics, and there will always be cynics but it's best not to let their pearls of bullshit get in the way of positive circumstances.
As long as you don't overdo it and are understanding of others who might not be having a good time then there are no problems whatsoever.
Looks like I'm going to need another lie down.
This goes to show that if you want to get on in any industry you have to adapt and move with the times and that's exactly what these composers did and it goes for more established musicians too, such as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, and even TV and Radio presenters such as Simon Mayo, Phillip Schofield and Noel Edmonds.
The list is endless really but every one of those names I've mentioned has had a low point in their career and they're more than happy to either gloss over them or laugh back at them as they can learn from their errors and that's what quite a lot of people around me need to understand.
Then again I've been told the exact same thing by teachers, lecturers, people who want others to do well basically. There will always be critics, and there will always be cynics but it's best not to let their pearls of bullshit get in the way of positive circumstances.
As long as you don't overdo it and are understanding of others who might not be having a good time then there are no problems whatsoever.
Looks like I'm going to need another lie down.
Learning From Mistakes
Well my radio reminiscing is almost reaching it's end as I'm now in April or to be more specific the first week of April.
That week half the station staff including the three main editors were in York for the
Student Radio Conference which I'm not too gutted about missing now to be honest.
This gave us the excuse to muck about really and it's probably the only week that all the shows were specialist shows which included the Live Variety boys who used their last show of the semester to tie up a few loose ends. Later on in the clip, although I haven't included the song itself they played Ray Lamontagne's stunning cover of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy".
The reasoning for this was because a few weeks earlier they recorded a show for the 24 hour broadcast with all the songs aiming to be on a comedy theme.
Halfway through however, Ross decided to slip in a cover of "Crazy" by The Kooks as done on Jo Whiley's Live Lounge on Radio 1 and myself and Paul agreed that it didn't fit the mood of the show alongside the other tracks by Bill Bailey and Tom Lehrer.
However that particular incident reinforced my understanding of why songs are programmed in a particular way on radio for specific shows and it was really useful to learn overall.
Around this time most of us were getting our podcasts done and having a gander through the selection of music that we could use for them and myself Paul and Ross were having a bit of a laugh at a CD that contained some very dodgy synthesizer pieces.
What Paul described as "80s music gone wrong" and when Tudor arrived to do his show that evening I immediately asked him to play one of the tracks during his first link and
here's the result!
Not a rant as such, but that taught me that you should never use such music seriously!
I can remember when first listening to the station and Ali on the Sports Show,
where instead of the guitar theme that's become synomynous with the sports show there was a Casio version of the Match Of The Day theme and I knew that we had to make a few changes! I was just too nervous to admit it.
Unfortunately that's even more toe curling for me to upload here.
This week also saw the departure of Smoke International after nearly two years and it was rather sad partly because Fabian and the guys hadn't found anyone to take over the show from them from in Autumn next year.
Once again here's the well produced chronology of the show, for which one of the beds happened to be used for Thames Television's 21st anniversary in 1989!
That was such a great night followed by glasses of wine whilst I presented my final soul show of the semester playing a selection of soulful ballads. This happened to be the final show overall on Smoke Radio that week bringing it to a nice, relaxed and forward looking end with "People Get Ready" by the Impressions.
I think everyone by now had reached the point that they really cared about their shows and making them meaningful and that's a great way of how we progressed throughout the year whilst having a good laugh at the same time.
That week half the station staff including the three main editors were in York for the
Student Radio Conference which I'm not too gutted about missing now to be honest.
This gave us the excuse to muck about really and it's probably the only week that all the shows were specialist shows which included the Live Variety boys who used their last show of the semester to tie up a few loose ends. Later on in the clip, although I haven't included the song itself they played Ray Lamontagne's stunning cover of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy".
The reasoning for this was because a few weeks earlier they recorded a show for the 24 hour broadcast with all the songs aiming to be on a comedy theme.
Halfway through however, Ross decided to slip in a cover of "Crazy" by The Kooks as done on Jo Whiley's Live Lounge on Radio 1 and myself and Paul agreed that it didn't fit the mood of the show alongside the other tracks by Bill Bailey and Tom Lehrer.
However that particular incident reinforced my understanding of why songs are programmed in a particular way on radio for specific shows and it was really useful to learn overall.
Around this time most of us were getting our podcasts done and having a gander through the selection of music that we could use for them and myself Paul and Ross were having a bit of a laugh at a CD that contained some very dodgy synthesizer pieces.
What Paul described as "80s music gone wrong" and when Tudor arrived to do his show that evening I immediately asked him to play one of the tracks during his first link and
here's the result!
Not a rant as such, but that taught me that you should never use such music seriously!
I can remember when first listening to the station and Ali on the Sports Show,
where instead of the guitar theme that's become synomynous with the sports show there was a Casio version of the Match Of The Day theme and I knew that we had to make a few changes! I was just too nervous to admit it.
Unfortunately that's even more toe curling for me to upload here.
This week also saw the departure of Smoke International after nearly two years and it was rather sad partly because Fabian and the guys hadn't found anyone to take over the show from them from in Autumn next year.
Once again here's the well produced chronology of the show, for which one of the beds happened to be used for Thames Television's 21st anniversary in 1989!
That was such a great night followed by glasses of wine whilst I presented my final soul show of the semester playing a selection of soulful ballads. This happened to be the final show overall on Smoke Radio that week bringing it to a nice, relaxed and forward looking end with "People Get Ready" by the Impressions.
I think everyone by now had reached the point that they really cared about their shows and making them meaningful and that's a great way of how we progressed throughout the year whilst having a good laugh at the same time.
Friday, July 13, 2007
"Saturday Night At The Movies, Who Cares What Picture You See"
Two things are wrong in that title, i.e it was Friday and at the Orange Street Music Club seeing jazz trumpeter Steve Waterman performing alongside the Frances Knight Trio.
What a cracking gig, a selection of really lovely jazz standards mostly composed by Benny Goldsten with one of the highlights being "Destination Unknown" which Steve himself described as "Baker Street by Gerry Rafferty meets Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock".
The musicians themselves caught my attention not just for their performances but their quirks such as drummer Vince Clark having a rather unfortunate (depending on your point of view) namesake and the bass player looking similar to either Jonathan King or Simon Bates.
I was at the gig with both dad and John, a friend of the family who teaches CDT at the girls Langton school and we managed to bump into one of his former students who's just graduated.
I was determined not to drink but both Dad and John prompted me into indulging in a WKD and two Smirnoff Ices, whilst they savoured pints of Guinness and booze free Becks along with two helpings of Bombay Mix.
As we were going back I found out that Olly's managed to blag himself a role as an attendant for Lounge On The Farm taking place near Canterbury this weekend.
I was thinking of going but realised I need to be careful with my bob as I may be making a visit back to London next week.
I'm hoping to go to a few more gigs in Canterbury especially as most of them are free.
Make the most of what you've got in these sorts of circumstances.
What a cracking gig, a selection of really lovely jazz standards mostly composed by Benny Goldsten with one of the highlights being "Destination Unknown" which Steve himself described as "Baker Street by Gerry Rafferty meets Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock".
The musicians themselves caught my attention not just for their performances but their quirks such as drummer Vince Clark having a rather unfortunate (depending on your point of view) namesake and the bass player looking similar to either Jonathan King or Simon Bates.
I was at the gig with both dad and John, a friend of the family who teaches CDT at the girls Langton school and we managed to bump into one of his former students who's just graduated.
I was determined not to drink but both Dad and John prompted me into indulging in a WKD and two Smirnoff Ices, whilst they savoured pints of Guinness and booze free Becks along with two helpings of Bombay Mix.
As we were going back I found out that Olly's managed to blag himself a role as an attendant for Lounge On The Farm taking place near Canterbury this weekend.
I was thinking of going but realised I need to be careful with my bob as I may be making a visit back to London next week.
I'm hoping to go to a few more gigs in Canterbury especially as most of them are free.
Make the most of what you've got in these sorts of circumstances.
Music Is The Best Medicine
I now know what people mean when they say they can't live without music. Provided that it's in the right place at the right time.
I had a listen back to another edition of Paul and Ross's "Live Variety Show" from March this morning which included a track by Bob Dylan's backing band simply known as
"The Band" which was called "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down".
I immediatley thought "where have I heard this before" and I then remembered mum used to have a C90 with Joan Baez's version of that and many other Bob Dylan compositions.
Also included on the tape was Linda Ronstadt and Edith Piaf although it ended up having the infamous "John Kettley Is A Weatherman" by a Tribe Of Toffs as a result of Dad accidentally taping over after hearing the song played on the radio.
The soundtrack to many a dreadful car journey which elaborates about music in the wrong place at the wrong time. I've now learnt not to let bad scenarios get in the way of good music even if it does involve making bizarre moves.
Not least since I got a call from ASDA this morning asking me if I would return and I politley said no explaining that I thought the time was right to move on and in honesty because of the obnoxious nature of my co-workers who put me off the job and life overall.
However I did wish them well for the future and it has helped me to learn a bit more about myself as a person.
Well it's Friday and that means Grooveline with Stephen as always and a cracking line up including two more tracks from July's album of the month by Moses Mayes.
Listening to this made me think more about wanting to focus more on the soul show when coming back to London in September but I reckon after watching a bit of television will make me think "no I want to do daytime!".
I'll admit it when I say that television's responsible for me wanting to get into radio especially as some of my favourite broadcasters have started off in and returned to radio.
It's definitely worth having a look at these interviews I found with Andy Crane and
Simon Parkin which are very enlightening and open.
I definitely know now that asking questions does help.
I had a listen back to another edition of Paul and Ross's "Live Variety Show" from March this morning which included a track by Bob Dylan's backing band simply known as
"The Band" which was called "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down".
I immediatley thought "where have I heard this before" and I then remembered mum used to have a C90 with Joan Baez's version of that and many other Bob Dylan compositions.
Also included on the tape was Linda Ronstadt and Edith Piaf although it ended up having the infamous "John Kettley Is A Weatherman" by a Tribe Of Toffs as a result of Dad accidentally taping over after hearing the song played on the radio.
The soundtrack to many a dreadful car journey which elaborates about music in the wrong place at the wrong time. I've now learnt not to let bad scenarios get in the way of good music even if it does involve making bizarre moves.
Not least since I got a call from ASDA this morning asking me if I would return and I politley said no explaining that I thought the time was right to move on and in honesty because of the obnoxious nature of my co-workers who put me off the job and life overall.
However I did wish them well for the future and it has helped me to learn a bit more about myself as a person.
Well it's Friday and that means Grooveline with Stephen as always and a cracking line up including two more tracks from July's album of the month by Moses Mayes.
Listening to this made me think more about wanting to focus more on the soul show when coming back to London in September but I reckon after watching a bit of television will make me think "no I want to do daytime!".
I'll admit it when I say that television's responsible for me wanting to get into radio especially as some of my favourite broadcasters have started off in and returned to radio.
It's definitely worth having a look at these interviews I found with Andy Crane and
Simon Parkin which are very enlightening and open.
I definitely know now that asking questions does help.
Mobile Inspiration
I've been having a listen back to the podcasts we did earlier this year and I feel the need to analyse them in heavy detail.
Listening back to my own which were about the NAS and autism I have a terrible habit of repeating myself or what my interviewees are about to say.
For example:
RB: "Susan Sayer runs the autism unit at the Abbey School in Faversham. Has it been sucessful?,
SS: "It's been very sucessfull..."
Whilst the interview itself gets a few points across I've now realised that Charles Carroll was right in making a good cue stand out and not repeat itself and he had every right to give me a low mark on the newswriting module at the beginning of the course.
But it's not enough to just make sure that the script is spot on. If you plan to add production you must think about how and why you are using that sound effect or impact, in a particular point of a podcast.
This is illustrated through PodPod which as a concept is brilliant but the mix between dry interviews and produced links can be unnerving with an whoosh coming in and catching you off guard when least expected.
But then again isn't Garageband a wonderful thing?
That may convert me to buying a Mac.
Listening back to my own which were about the NAS and autism I have a terrible habit of repeating myself or what my interviewees are about to say.
For example:
RB: "Susan Sayer runs the autism unit at the Abbey School in Faversham. Has it been sucessful?,
SS: "It's been very sucessfull..."
Whilst the interview itself gets a few points across I've now realised that Charles Carroll was right in making a good cue stand out and not repeat itself and he had every right to give me a low mark on the newswriting module at the beginning of the course.
But it's not enough to just make sure that the script is spot on. If you plan to add production you must think about how and why you are using that sound effect or impact, in a particular point of a podcast.
This is illustrated through PodPod which as a concept is brilliant but the mix between dry interviews and produced links can be unnerving with an whoosh coming in and catching you off guard when least expected.
But then again isn't Garageband a wonderful thing?
That may convert me to buying a Mac.
In Need Of Liquid
I'm physically feeling really bad this morning but mentally I'm still the same as I have been in the last week or so. I've been feeling how I normally do when I've had a few VKs so I reckon this could be a sign of good potential and saving money so when I next go to the Undercroft bar I'll be able to live of just Sprite and Fanta!
Then again quite a few people do owe me a few VKs but that's not really for me to say!
I've started to realise even further that most of the songs I like have meanings that make sense. One of instance being underrated jazz vocalist Carmen Lundy and the opener of her 1985 debut album called "Time Is Love". I initially liked it because of the really nice instrumentation and piano chords and of course Carmen's stunning voice but I've had a listen to the lyrical content in detail and it actually means something;
"time will tell if your dreams will all come true, yes they do".
During S(4)S, Sam was telling me how she couldn't listen to any songs with words at night as it stopped her from sleeping and opted for Classic FM. I can understand perfectly where she's coming from and what the guys from the station at the Gcap visit were saying about the station back in January. People who dismiss it, comparing it with Radio 3 do not know what they are talking about as both stations have completely different aims.
Classic FM's aim is to bring classical music to a wider audience and that's why it's programmed in the same way as a pop station with presenters who don't live and breath that particular genre of music. This is why you've got people like Myleene Klass and previously Mark Goodier, as the man himself says that it's important to have eclectic tastes if you want to get along in the media.
I've still got the CD with the original jingles from 1992 somewhere which are still being used in one form or another!
Then again quite a few people do owe me a few VKs but that's not really for me to say!
I've started to realise even further that most of the songs I like have meanings that make sense. One of instance being underrated jazz vocalist Carmen Lundy and the opener of her 1985 debut album called "Time Is Love". I initially liked it because of the really nice instrumentation and piano chords and of course Carmen's stunning voice but I've had a listen to the lyrical content in detail and it actually means something;
"time will tell if your dreams will all come true, yes they do".
During S(4)S, Sam was telling me how she couldn't listen to any songs with words at night as it stopped her from sleeping and opted for Classic FM. I can understand perfectly where she's coming from and what the guys from the station at the Gcap visit were saying about the station back in January. People who dismiss it, comparing it with Radio 3 do not know what they are talking about as both stations have completely different aims.
Classic FM's aim is to bring classical music to a wider audience and that's why it's programmed in the same way as a pop station with presenters who don't live and breath that particular genre of music. This is why you've got people like Myleene Klass and previously Mark Goodier, as the man himself says that it's important to have eclectic tastes if you want to get along in the media.
I've still got the CD with the original jingles from 1992 somewhere which are still being used in one form or another!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
The Mentality Continues
OK, so 4od is set to download tonight's documentary on Bernard Manning and I'm almost near the end of completing my playlist page on the Soul Expression website.
41 shows, whooo!
To be honest I haven't done a proper show since the night before I ran away back to Canterbury as there was the two hour "Spring Fuelled Soul" show in place of
Smoke International that week, the "Slow Jam Special" to round off the semester and a
6 week break before my final show "Sun Sea And Soul". That just proves that I've gone crazy since escaping from the Studio 4 fiasco.
Having just listened back to the first extended special there are quite a few tracks that I've forgotten I've even played which is a good thing I suppose. These included a cover of "Waters Of March" by Akiko and Corrine from Swing Out Sister, a Jobim standard which ended up being used by Coca Cola for their "Coke Is It Campaign".
Some of the vocal elements ended up being used on Swing Out Sister's subseqent album in 2004 on a track called "La Source" which was played on the Sun Sea and Soul show.
Back to the Spring special and "Harvest For The World" covered by Ronnie Laws, probably the only version of the song to have orchestra hit noises similar to that on the BFT clip from earlier or The Krypton Factor.
I have a dreadful fetish for the Orchestra Hit voice on a synthesizer mainly because of it's use on many theme tunes throughout the 80s including Top Of The Pops when they used Paul Hardcastle's "The Wizard".
Who cares if it's cliched in the present day, I still love it.
Please tell me I havent written the last sentence in an earlier blog post.
I'm still rather embarrassed about my show ideas but even if they don't meet the approval I won't be too worried. For what I know Phil L and Sam can drop me from the schedule completely if they wanted. Then again the circumstances in the long term may result in me in tears after a while. There's another thing I'm asking myself, what could the potential circumstances of an action be?
I need to lie down, honestly.
41 shows, whooo!
To be honest I haven't done a proper show since the night before I ran away back to Canterbury as there was the two hour "Spring Fuelled Soul" show in place of
Smoke International that week, the "Slow Jam Special" to round off the semester and a
6 week break before my final show "Sun Sea And Soul". That just proves that I've gone crazy since escaping from the Studio 4 fiasco.
Having just listened back to the first extended special there are quite a few tracks that I've forgotten I've even played which is a good thing I suppose. These included a cover of "Waters Of March" by Akiko and Corrine from Swing Out Sister, a Jobim standard which ended up being used by Coca Cola for their "Coke Is It Campaign".
Some of the vocal elements ended up being used on Swing Out Sister's subseqent album in 2004 on a track called "La Source" which was played on the Sun Sea and Soul show.
Back to the Spring special and "Harvest For The World" covered by Ronnie Laws, probably the only version of the song to have orchestra hit noises similar to that on the BFT clip from earlier or The Krypton Factor.
I have a dreadful fetish for the Orchestra Hit voice on a synthesizer mainly because of it's use on many theme tunes throughout the 80s including Top Of The Pops when they used Paul Hardcastle's "The Wizard".
Who cares if it's cliched in the present day, I still love it.
Please tell me I havent written the last sentence in an earlier blog post.
I'm still rather embarrassed about my show ideas but even if they don't meet the approval I won't be too worried. For what I know Phil L and Sam can drop me from the schedule completely if they wanted. Then again the circumstances in the long term may result in me in tears after a while. There's another thing I'm asking myself, what could the potential circumstances of an action be?
I need to lie down, honestly.
Phase Of Mentality
I don't know what's come over me. (Make your own jokes)
After being "chimed" by co-editor of programming Sam on Windows Live I felt the need to reveal this ridiculous idea that I have for a show together for Freshers after we both presented the soul show during S(4)S. The title, please don't laugh: "Blammy and Sami".
The way I see it would be a show broadcast during the daytime daily during Freshers and then we would both go down to whichever Fresher's Fayre is taking place on what campus and meet the newcomers at the Smoke Radio stall. One feature I have in mind would be "The Specialist Spotlight" where we'd get a presenter from a specialist show in and ask them to tell them about his or her show and play a track that would be featured that night.
Logically it would work but it's up to the lady herself and Phil L what goes ahead and
I fully accept that. If I ended up with just doing the soul show I wouldn't be fussed as I've got tons of ideas for that as well. Arrrgh!
I may as well list them down too as I want the show to be an introduction of all the sub-soul genres I play on my show with two from each being played, so for Jazz Funk we could have one from Light Of The World followed by the Players Association or for Gospel (yes I do play a bit of Gospel occasionally) I'd play something by the Winans followed by a more modern track by someone such as Kirk Franklin.
Overall one thing I don't want on the station next year is musical snobbery and this even resorts to presenters giving negative opinions about songs or bands on air.
This can be done as during the 24 hour broadcast both mine and Tudor's show had us both in as presenters/extra voices respectively for each show and it really blended in well together.
Whatever happens I'll be happy but nothing can stop me being bloody happy at this rate!
After being "chimed" by co-editor of programming Sam on Windows Live I felt the need to reveal this ridiculous idea that I have for a show together for Freshers after we both presented the soul show during S(4)S. The title, please don't laugh: "Blammy and Sami".
The way I see it would be a show broadcast during the daytime daily during Freshers and then we would both go down to whichever Fresher's Fayre is taking place on what campus and meet the newcomers at the Smoke Radio stall. One feature I have in mind would be "The Specialist Spotlight" where we'd get a presenter from a specialist show in and ask them to tell them about his or her show and play a track that would be featured that night.
Logically it would work but it's up to the lady herself and Phil L what goes ahead and
I fully accept that. If I ended up with just doing the soul show I wouldn't be fussed as I've got tons of ideas for that as well. Arrrgh!
I may as well list them down too as I want the show to be an introduction of all the sub-soul genres I play on my show with two from each being played, so for Jazz Funk we could have one from Light Of The World followed by the Players Association or for Gospel (yes I do play a bit of Gospel occasionally) I'd play something by the Winans followed by a more modern track by someone such as Kirk Franklin.
Overall one thing I don't want on the station next year is musical snobbery and this even resorts to presenters giving negative opinions about songs or bands on air.
This can be done as during the 24 hour broadcast both mine and Tudor's show had us both in as presenters/extra voices respectively for each show and it really blended in well together.
Whatever happens I'll be happy but nothing can stop me being bloody happy at this rate!
Is It Wrong To Always Be Happy?
I was going to put the title of the post in inverted commas but then realised, who apart from me has actually said that?
That's how crazy things are going as I'm constantly questioning my every move and action and am worried that it's going to lead to severe circumstances.
Until of course I find something that delights me such as this Youtube finding;
BFT from 1991 with presenters Simon Parkin, Phillipa Forrester and a fledgling
Esther McVey with a theme tune that doesn't appear to have a tune in all honesty.
They did change the titles a year later with the same "Jet" character with the orange spiky hair although they took out the "Yo! BFT" line and made the theme more similar to the one CBBC had just introduced.
I've always thought that sounded similar to Matt Bianco's "Wap Bam Boogie" which was a tune brought to my attention 7 years ago by none other than Peter Stewart
on the Carwash and I ended up listening to the tune constantly.
I've gotten back into the habit of it as I seem to be asking myself, what music makes me happy and why does it make me happy?
I've even resorted to adding an alert noise for when someone messages me on Windows Live although rather than using the annoying chime I've resorted to using the telephone ring. This was because I fell asleep whilst using my laptop this afternoon and woke up to find my Windows Live flashing.
It's just vital to be in the right place at the right time.
That's how crazy things are going as I'm constantly questioning my every move and action and am worried that it's going to lead to severe circumstances.
Until of course I find something that delights me such as this Youtube finding;
BFT from 1991 with presenters Simon Parkin, Phillipa Forrester and a fledgling
Esther McVey with a theme tune that doesn't appear to have a tune in all honesty.
They did change the titles a year later with the same "Jet" character with the orange spiky hair although they took out the "Yo! BFT" line and made the theme more similar to the one CBBC had just introduced.
I've always thought that sounded similar to Matt Bianco's "Wap Bam Boogie" which was a tune brought to my attention 7 years ago by none other than Peter Stewart
on the Carwash and I ended up listening to the tune constantly.
I've gotten back into the habit of it as I seem to be asking myself, what music makes me happy and why does it make me happy?
I've even resorted to adding an alert noise for when someone messages me on Windows Live although rather than using the annoying chime I've resorted to using the telephone ring. This was because I fell asleep whilst using my laptop this afternoon and woke up to find my Windows Live flashing.
It's just vital to be in the right place at the right time.
The Prides Of March
I've almost reached the end of the spring semester in my aural journey and by the time I got back from Canterbury things were definitely more relaxed.
Tudor in particular being slightly quieter than the infamous show from the week before, although both him and most of the other evening presenters were now back in the comfy surroundings of Studio 6 with things in the radio rooms being a lot quieter.
Not even the Post-Grads or MAJS students caused any disruption due to their lectures being on during the day or at weekends.
It's just as well I got back when I did because on the Wednesday evening Atilla rang me saying that Fabian and Natasha were bobbed down with assignments and he'd just had a break in at his house meaning they weren't able to do their show that week and I had to rush back to the flat to prepare an extra hour for my show.
It went well however despite a few dodgy mic levels and accidentally
mentioning Belinda Carlisle live on air!
Also this week the Shuffle boys were re-united after a month away on holiday and at the theatre respectively with what was their final show of the semester as we weren't sure anyone would be there on the final Thursday, with the theme being "Track 29" as it was the 29th of March when it went out.
Ina however ended up pre-recording her 80s show for the rest of the semester after all the fuss over studio 4, although it gave us a bit of amusement hearing it go out while most of the radio lot were in RP1 editing their podcasts.
It wasn't half freezing in that room back then despite the time of year and I nearly ended up destroying one of the wall radiators as a result!
Tudor in particular being slightly quieter than the infamous show from the week before, although both him and most of the other evening presenters were now back in the comfy surroundings of Studio 6 with things in the radio rooms being a lot quieter.
Not even the Post-Grads or MAJS students caused any disruption due to their lectures being on during the day or at weekends.
It's just as well I got back when I did because on the Wednesday evening Atilla rang me saying that Fabian and Natasha were bobbed down with assignments and he'd just had a break in at his house meaning they weren't able to do their show that week and I had to rush back to the flat to prepare an extra hour for my show.
It went well however despite a few dodgy mic levels and accidentally
mentioning Belinda Carlisle live on air!
Also this week the Shuffle boys were re-united after a month away on holiday and at the theatre respectively with what was their final show of the semester as we weren't sure anyone would be there on the final Thursday, with the theme being "Track 29" as it was the 29th of March when it went out.
Ina however ended up pre-recording her 80s show for the rest of the semester after all the fuss over studio 4, although it gave us a bit of amusement hearing it go out while most of the radio lot were in RP1 editing their podcasts.
It wasn't half freezing in that room back then despite the time of year and I nearly ended up destroying one of the wall radiators as a result!
"Delicious JAM"
I've realised that the only way you know if jingles work or not is when you hear them used on the air. This is perfectly illustrated on JAM Creative Productions' website
in a section called "JAM On The Air".
There's far too much to talk about, but one of the highlights comes from BBC Radio 1 in 1992 when Ron Keitz won the prize to go and see a jingle being produced in Dallas as part of Radio 1's 31 Days In May Competion.
Steve Wright always feeling the need to butt in, can be heard groaning when a Radio 2 jingle is played although I bet he had no idea that he'd be working for them four years later!
Overall this shows that the guys who do the singing really enjoy what their doing and
Jon Wolfert is one of the finest perfectionists when it comes to production.
Maybe when I get a bit of extra bob I'd love to pop over and see Jon and the guys in action.
in a section called "JAM On The Air".
There's far too much to talk about, but one of the highlights comes from BBC Radio 1 in 1992 when Ron Keitz won the prize to go and see a jingle being produced in Dallas as part of Radio 1's 31 Days In May Competion.
Steve Wright always feeling the need to butt in, can be heard groaning when a Radio 2 jingle is played although I bet he had no idea that he'd be working for them four years later!
Overall this shows that the guys who do the singing really enjoy what their doing and
Jon Wolfert is one of the finest perfectionists when it comes to production.
Maybe when I get a bit of extra bob I'd love to pop over and see Jon and the guys in action.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Be Prepared: Part 2
In order for me to continue with Smoke next year I will have to make a few compromises even if it does mean having to present from Studio 4 again.
The main reason we were told to use the studio last year was that MAJI students were complaining about people from Smoke not being very helpful to them wanting to use the studios whilst we wanted to present from them resulting in the senior technician locking up the stack in the evenings that allowed us to switch studios. This didn't go down well with those who presented live on evenings and you're more than welcome to
listen to how both myself and Tudor fared on our solo outings in the studio.
Tudor's point about Josie presenting from the studio is spot on as the studio is poorly set up not just for practical reasons but also for health and safety as well.
I can remember when we were told that we had to use that studio, myself and Josie got into a big argument with the senior technician for all those reasons and on that night of Tudor's show, she refused to go in there full stop and opted for studio 5 via the matrix fader which the technicians had obviously forgot about.
You can hear the brummie beauty in this clip and she handles the situation perfectly.
In fact I'd say that Josie is one of the best female specialist presenters on the station both personality wise and technically and she really needs to believe how good she is.
Especially as she didn't do a show for S(4)S in May.
I doubt anyone reacted positively to using studio 4 especially Adam from the Shuffle show who had to go it alone and I can remember him almost being in tears.
I also remember him telling me that if him and Zo ever had to present from there again they would quit the station and I wouldn't blame him as I and many others can accept that not everyone in radio is technically capable.
After Tudor's rantfest I was determined to make sure all evening presenters got what was best for their shows especially as Smoke International was on Wednesday before mine, which has more presenters than I've said "stunning" on air.
The next day I was on the phone to Matthew who gave me a light bollocking for refusing to use studio 4 and my overbearance in the radio rooms which made me think but I made my defence about why people didn't like using that room. Matthew responded by saying that he "didn't want to piss the technicians off".
How would they know as they weren't in the building after 5pm and never even
listened to the fucking station!
However with the stress of my podcast assignment I decided it would be best to go back to Canterbury to get away from my aggrovations and I'm really glad I did so as everything started to become a lot more positive with the help of mum and her giving me a fully fledged idea to get the podcast sorted.
However I was still getting phone calls from those wanting help in radio and throughout the weekend everyone was struggling to present from the "Insanity Cupboard" including Carl on the Gospel Show who sounded very nervous that week.
This came to a head when by the time I got back to Harrow as the automation wasn't even running beacuase no one had been trained to activate it. However luckily the stack was now open with the keys next to it, so I decided to grab them while I could!
However they're back in a safe place now and with things winding down towards the end of the semester it was only the daytime shows who were using Studio 4
without the hassle of CD players and everyone was happy.
I'd look at this as the turning point of the year as things have just got better for me since this incident and I've learnt to look at things a lot more postively and completely eliminating the negative as it says in the song.
That and D-Ream's "Things Can Only Get Better".
The main reason we were told to use the studio last year was that MAJI students were complaining about people from Smoke not being very helpful to them wanting to use the studios whilst we wanted to present from them resulting in the senior technician locking up the stack in the evenings that allowed us to switch studios. This didn't go down well with those who presented live on evenings and you're more than welcome to
listen to how both myself and Tudor fared on our solo outings in the studio.
Tudor's point about Josie presenting from the studio is spot on as the studio is poorly set up not just for practical reasons but also for health and safety as well.
I can remember when we were told that we had to use that studio, myself and Josie got into a big argument with the senior technician for all those reasons and on that night of Tudor's show, she refused to go in there full stop and opted for studio 5 via the matrix fader which the technicians had obviously forgot about.
You can hear the brummie beauty in this clip and she handles the situation perfectly.
In fact I'd say that Josie is one of the best female specialist presenters on the station both personality wise and technically and she really needs to believe how good she is.
Especially as she didn't do a show for S(4)S in May.
I doubt anyone reacted positively to using studio 4 especially Adam from the Shuffle show who had to go it alone and I can remember him almost being in tears.
I also remember him telling me that if him and Zo ever had to present from there again they would quit the station and I wouldn't blame him as I and many others can accept that not everyone in radio is technically capable.
After Tudor's rantfest I was determined to make sure all evening presenters got what was best for their shows especially as Smoke International was on Wednesday before mine, which has more presenters than I've said "stunning" on air.
The next day I was on the phone to Matthew who gave me a light bollocking for refusing to use studio 4 and my overbearance in the radio rooms which made me think but I made my defence about why people didn't like using that room. Matthew responded by saying that he "didn't want to piss the technicians off".
How would they know as they weren't in the building after 5pm and never even
listened to the fucking station!
However with the stress of my podcast assignment I decided it would be best to go back to Canterbury to get away from my aggrovations and I'm really glad I did so as everything started to become a lot more positive with the help of mum and her giving me a fully fledged idea to get the podcast sorted.
However I was still getting phone calls from those wanting help in radio and throughout the weekend everyone was struggling to present from the "Insanity Cupboard" including Carl on the Gospel Show who sounded very nervous that week.
This came to a head when by the time I got back to Harrow as the automation wasn't even running beacuase no one had been trained to activate it. However luckily the stack was now open with the keys next to it, so I decided to grab them while I could!
However they're back in a safe place now and with things winding down towards the end of the semester it was only the daytime shows who were using Studio 4
without the hassle of CD players and everyone was happy.
I'd look at this as the turning point of the year as things have just got better for me since this incident and I've learnt to look at things a lot more postively and completely eliminating the negative as it says in the song.
That and D-Ream's "Things Can Only Get Better".
"He's The Man Who's Got The Best Jingles!"
Anyone with a good radio knowledge will know that the above title certainly isn't self congratulatory.
OK, so let's bring things up to date with stunning material from Mark Goodier's Wise Buddah.
Included are the new jingles for Capital 95.8 where they've realised that you really need a strong melody logo for a station identity and I think their latest package comes out on tops.
And not forgetting the individual idents for the presenters at BBC Radio 2 including Richard Hammond! That's how you make a guest presenter stand out although it's important to remember that the Top Gear presenter did start off at BBC Radio York many years ago. There's nothing wrong with a radio to television move but if it's done vice versa then questions can be raised.
But I also like the fact that whilst Radio 2 are getting some great stuff done from Wise Buddah, they're still using the jingles from Groove Addicts that have done the job for nearly 10 years with an instantly catchy musical logo. (You'll need to hover over the jingles to hear them!)
In fact some of their JAM jingles from just after Jim Moir took over in 1996 wouldn't sound out of place on the station today.
I reckon that now would be the finest excuse to upload a montage of the first proper jingle package I took notice of, which funnily enough was produced for BBC Radio 2 as a bloody great big package in 1986 for them to rebrand as a melodic standards station under new controller Frances Line.
Whilst the change of format lead to the departure of David Hamilton who famously said "there's only so much Max Bygraves and Vera Lynn you can play" it definitely brings back early memories of radio although I'm gutted that I didn't discover Radio 1 until 1990!
In terms of creativity and style this has to be one of the best jingle packages ever produced especially as it managed to last on air for 12 years.
OK, so let's bring things up to date with stunning material from Mark Goodier's Wise Buddah.
Included are the new jingles for Capital 95.8 where they've realised that you really need a strong melody logo for a station identity and I think their latest package comes out on tops.
And not forgetting the individual idents for the presenters at BBC Radio 2 including Richard Hammond! That's how you make a guest presenter stand out although it's important to remember that the Top Gear presenter did start off at BBC Radio York many years ago. There's nothing wrong with a radio to television move but if it's done vice versa then questions can be raised.
But I also like the fact that whilst Radio 2 are getting some great stuff done from Wise Buddah, they're still using the jingles from Groove Addicts that have done the job for nearly 10 years with an instantly catchy musical logo. (You'll need to hover over the jingles to hear them!)
In fact some of their JAM jingles from just after Jim Moir took over in 1996 wouldn't sound out of place on the station today.
I reckon that now would be the finest excuse to upload a montage of the first proper jingle package I took notice of, which funnily enough was produced for BBC Radio 2 as a bloody great big package in 1986 for them to rebrand as a melodic standards station under new controller Frances Line.
Whilst the change of format lead to the departure of David Hamilton who famously said "there's only so much Max Bygraves and Vera Lynn you can play" it definitely brings back early memories of radio although I'm gutted that I didn't discover Radio 1 until 1990!
In terms of creativity and style this has to be one of the best jingle packages ever produced especially as it managed to last on air for 12 years.
Are Ideas Exhaustive?
As I write this I'm half asleep as I reckon I've been through an overdose of ideas.
Following from the last post I managed to discover the Temple Of Tune website, a jingle company in Belgium which has a shrine to some of the best material produced in the UK, Europe and Dallas. Not least some of the other jingle packages produced by ALFA now being sold through the Belgian company including Superstation, produced again for the Chiltern Network following the same format as the Hot FM but for the Supergold network on AM and a jingle package that was cost effective but sounded great on air on all 4 stations.
It definitely shows that if you put time into ideas and ask "will they work"
and "why won't they work" then the answers will fly right in front of you.
As for me I need some relaxation and don't want to get back into the habit of falling asleep in the middle of the day!
Following from the last post I managed to discover the Temple Of Tune website, a jingle company in Belgium which has a shrine to some of the best material produced in the UK, Europe and Dallas. Not least some of the other jingle packages produced by ALFA now being sold through the Belgian company including Superstation, produced again for the Chiltern Network following the same format as the Hot FM but for the Supergold network on AM and a jingle package that was cost effective but sounded great on air on all 4 stations.
It definitely shows that if you put time into ideas and ask "will they work"
and "why won't they work" then the answers will fly right in front of you.
As for me I need some relaxation and don't want to get back into the habit of falling asleep in the middle of the day!
Jingles All The Way
Throughout the 80s, many jingles on local and commercial radio were provided by Manchester based company Alfasound who wanted to replicate the Dallas sound with their own vocalists based in Sale near Manchester. Obviously they would never be as good as what could be heard on Radio 1 and Radio 2 nationally but two guys known as "The Bastard Brothers" decided to put together a send up of their material as can be heard here.
The two guys in particular were both Chiltern Radio presenters Paul McKenna (yes him!) and Anthony James who in respect went on to set up his own jingle company which amongst others has been providing jingles for Steve Wright for over 20 years including that recognisable theme tune.
However around this time Chiltern had started using jingles produced in Dallas by TM and you really can't fault the production, vocals and orchestration in this selection.
I've worked out that up to the GWR takeover Chiltern had a real sense of progression with Paul Chantler arriving a few years after McKenna's departure and enhancing the "Hot FM" brand used throughout the network and Chantler later went on to work for the Essex Radio group amongst others including Peter Stewart!
Alfasound by now had abbreviated to ALFA and had started collaborating with the Dallas vocalists and provided cracking jingle packages for both stations ran by Chantler.
In fact Essex were still using their "Power Positive" jingles from ALFA quite a while after the jingle company went into an untimely liquidation. The demo really gives you an idea as to why Chantler left Chiltern after GWR came in and wanted Essex FM to stand out amongst the crowd.
Overall these are vital ingredients towards making great radio!
The two guys in particular were both Chiltern Radio presenters Paul McKenna (yes him!) and Anthony James who in respect went on to set up his own jingle company which amongst others has been providing jingles for Steve Wright for over 20 years including that recognisable theme tune.
However around this time Chiltern had started using jingles produced in Dallas by TM and you really can't fault the production, vocals and orchestration in this selection.
I've worked out that up to the GWR takeover Chiltern had a real sense of progression with Paul Chantler arriving a few years after McKenna's departure and enhancing the "Hot FM" brand used throughout the network and Chantler later went on to work for the Essex Radio group amongst others including Peter Stewart!
Alfasound by now had abbreviated to ALFA and had started collaborating with the Dallas vocalists and provided cracking jingle packages for both stations ran by Chantler.
In fact Essex were still using their "Power Positive" jingles from ALFA quite a while after the jingle company went into an untimely liquidation. The demo really gives you an idea as to why Chantler left Chiltern after GWR came in and wanted Essex FM to stand out amongst the crowd.
Overall these are vital ingredients towards making great radio!
Pearls Of B.S.
I never went to cubs or scouts thank goodness, but the phrase "Be Prepared" is very essential.
Having been through many down points I'm expecting the blue screen of death to appear on my laptop at any minute so I know that it won't be as bad when the time comes.
And all sorts of other instances too, such as not being able to find any conchiglie (shells) in the pasta aisle or discovering yellow bits in a chelsea bun.
Anyway asides that I'll try not to get spat on whilst preparing a delightful chicken stew for the rest of the house tonight and I reckon I'm going to try and be experimental for a change and see what the spice cupboard can provide me with. I may even resort one day to putting sweetcorn into one of my concuptions! You never know.
Having been through many down points I'm expecting the blue screen of death to appear on my laptop at any minute so I know that it won't be as bad when the time comes.
And all sorts of other instances too, such as not being able to find any conchiglie (shells) in the pasta aisle or discovering yellow bits in a chelsea bun.
Anyway asides that I'll try not to get spat on whilst preparing a delightful chicken stew for the rest of the house tonight and I reckon I'm going to try and be experimental for a change and see what the spice cupboard can provide me with. I may even resort one day to putting sweetcorn into one of my concuptions! You never know.
"Turned Out Nice Again Yer Motherf*****"
Here's an example of a great interviewer and an even greater interviewee!
The late Bernard Manning as interviewed by Opal Bonfante formerly of the infamous Big L which just goes to show that there's no shame in liking the man.
This covers so many areas of comedy and shows that if you're a wannabe comedian, there's nothing wrong with re-using material as long as you give your own take on the gags.
Opal ended up quitting Big L earlier in the year due to disagreements with the management and appeared on the Get Your Act Together Showdown as broadcast after the Channel 4 documentary. It's a shame that presenters with great potential are looked down on by people who think they are bigger than they actually are.
Speaking of which Channel 4 are broadcasting "Bernard Manning From Beyond The Grave" tomorrow night which I'm really looking forward to seeing.
Those who critcise him for his jokes can just go and continue laughing at jokes about disabled people from contemporary so called comedians.
Although to be honest I really must get round to watching those Richard Herring DVDs, one of the standout standups in this day and age. He knows how to make stupid humour work without aiming for the lowest common denominator.
He's doing a run through for his latest show "Fuck Me I'm 40" in nearby Whistable pretty soon although I'd prefer to see it in London when after it's become succesfull in Edinburgh.
The late Bernard Manning as interviewed by Opal Bonfante formerly of the infamous Big L which just goes to show that there's no shame in liking the man.
This covers so many areas of comedy and shows that if you're a wannabe comedian, there's nothing wrong with re-using material as long as you give your own take on the gags.
Opal ended up quitting Big L earlier in the year due to disagreements with the management and appeared on the Get Your Act Together Showdown as broadcast after the Channel 4 documentary. It's a shame that presenters with great potential are looked down on by people who think they are bigger than they actually are.
Speaking of which Channel 4 are broadcasting "Bernard Manning From Beyond The Grave" tomorrow night which I'm really looking forward to seeing.
Those who critcise him for his jokes can just go and continue laughing at jokes about disabled people from contemporary so called comedians.
Although to be honest I really must get round to watching those Richard Herring DVDs, one of the standout standups in this day and age. He knows how to make stupid humour work without aiming for the lowest common denominator.
He's doing a run through for his latest show "Fuck Me I'm 40" in nearby Whistable pretty soon although I'd prefer to see it in London when after it's become succesfull in Edinburgh.
Extensive Passions
Whatever profession or occupation you want to get into, it's important to always remember why (there's that word again!) you wanted to get into it.
For me it's been a case of going through my large collection of radio jingles from around the world and came across this demo by TM Productions in Dallas from 1986 called
"Digital One".
Whilst it may sound rather dated now it definitely exudes the excitement of radio and the 80s and the "Here's What's Happening" bed definitely sounds similar to Phil Collins!
I've also learnt not to let people's arrogance and bad times get in the way of potentially good music and am really starting to find myself wanting to listen to acts like Jamie T and The Feeling amongst others. However I'm confident I can balance it with my other interests and if things keep going that way then they'll be no problems at all.
For me it's been a case of going through my large collection of radio jingles from around the world and came across this demo by TM Productions in Dallas from 1986 called
"Digital One".
Whilst it may sound rather dated now it definitely exudes the excitement of radio and the 80s and the "Here's What's Happening" bed definitely sounds similar to Phil Collins!
I've also learnt not to let people's arrogance and bad times get in the way of potentially good music and am really starting to find myself wanting to listen to acts like Jamie T and The Feeling amongst others. However I'm confident I can balance it with my other interests and if things keep going that way then they'll be no problems at all.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Nothing To Do With A Welsh Wooden Bird
I've realised that one word probably sums up everything for me and at University in particular after listening to the Tracy Chapman song of the same name: Why?
It's all these hypocritical and petty activities that have taken place throughout my time which I know could be avoided but people are just either too lazy or too nervous to take risks in order to mend broken ends. A few people I know have realised the errors of their ways but unfortunatley there are quite a few others who still haven't got to grips.
I'm definitely going to try and fight back whenever someone tries to discourage me from anything as something has come to mind with a University lecturer who shall remain nameless, telling me the third year was "too serious" to be involved in Smoke Radio.
I could have told them to fuck off that second but I'm too relaxed or should I say
afraid to do that.
Surely marking essays is just as serious as opposed to extracurricular activities aren't they now...?
It's all these hypocritical and petty activities that have taken place throughout my time which I know could be avoided but people are just either too lazy or too nervous to take risks in order to mend broken ends. A few people I know have realised the errors of their ways but unfortunatley there are quite a few others who still haven't got to grips.
I'm definitely going to try and fight back whenever someone tries to discourage me from anything as something has come to mind with a University lecturer who shall remain nameless, telling me the third year was "too serious" to be involved in Smoke Radio.
I could have told them to fuck off that second but I'm too relaxed or should I say
afraid to do that.
Surely marking essays is just as serious as opposed to extracurricular activities aren't they now...?
What Should Have Been In The Smoke Podcasts....
More quirky audio from my findings this time from "The Live Variety Show". You can really hear how presenters Paul and Ross manage to interact with each other and give their own take on the music played with a brilliant sense of humour. Those two have come quite a long way on the radio course this year and I really hope it goes further into the third year. And no I did not add the reverb to the clip at the beginnning!
Shuffle with Adam and Zo took a very similar approach although Adam's absent in this clip and in his place is Harjeet a really lovely woman who used to study on the CMP course in the same year as Rob Watson. The theme for the show that week was flowers which included a stunning track from the PS2 Game "Katamari Demarcy".
Adam can be heard however in the promo for the summer show at the end of the year although the quirkiness and irreverent nature confused a few daytime presenters who had to play it in their shows.
Smoke International also introduced new features to their show including "Very British" where this particular feature involves Fabian giving his own take on the popularity
of fish and chips. Worth listening for Fabian's attempt at a Cockney accent!
The area of Canterbury near Morrisons stank of a bleeding chippy for some reason or another whilst I was going to buy the fizzy stuff but on the positive side it made me want to be back in Wells, the lovely seaside village in North Norfolk in the sunset with plenty of Archers bottles on hand!
That feature's definitely given me an idea to possibly do a similar feature for the third year on my own fetish; pasta.
Also on the show was the addition of an agony aunt Dr Sheila who would answer queries from International students studying at Westminster. At least that's how it's percieved.
I'm certain that another letter that didn't get broadcast took a dig at one of the Media Theory lectuers who's been very supportive of the station!
Shuffle with Adam and Zo took a very similar approach although Adam's absent in this clip and in his place is Harjeet a really lovely woman who used to study on the CMP course in the same year as Rob Watson. The theme for the show that week was flowers which included a stunning track from the PS2 Game "Katamari Demarcy".
Adam can be heard however in the promo for the summer show at the end of the year although the quirkiness and irreverent nature confused a few daytime presenters who had to play it in their shows.
Smoke International also introduced new features to their show including "Very British" where this particular feature involves Fabian giving his own take on the popularity
of fish and chips. Worth listening for Fabian's attempt at a Cockney accent!
The area of Canterbury near Morrisons stank of a bleeding chippy for some reason or another whilst I was going to buy the fizzy stuff but on the positive side it made me want to be back in Wells, the lovely seaside village in North Norfolk in the sunset with plenty of Archers bottles on hand!
That feature's definitely given me an idea to possibly do a similar feature for the third year on my own fetish; pasta.
Also on the show was the addition of an agony aunt Dr Sheila who would answer queries from International students studying at Westminster. At least that's how it's percieved.
I'm certain that another letter that didn't get broadcast took a dig at one of the Media Theory lectuers who's been very supportive of the station!
And After All That Effort...
Tiny bit of bad news this morning, the Undercroft apparently are unable to let
Smoke Radio have a night during Freshers Week which is a bit of a downer.
Especially as we've been responsible for some of their biggest nights which have in fact broken sales records. However I'm not too gutted and they will let us have slots throughout the semester which I'm looking forward to spinning my discs at reguarly
Apart from that it's been relaxed more or less, I gave a listen to Christian O'Connell on Virgin this morning after finding out about his presenter competition and he's one of those who despite hosting a prestigous slot on the station, doesn't need people around him all the time to make him sound good. Although that's not to say that he can't handle the raucousness of a zoo format as heard in the past and when he was on XFM.
Right, my major aim today is to actually buy some fizzy stuff, probably not that strong so to save on the pennies but I'm bloody dying for a drink.
Smoke Radio have a night during Freshers Week which is a bit of a downer.
Especially as we've been responsible for some of their biggest nights which have in fact broken sales records. However I'm not too gutted and they will let us have slots throughout the semester which I'm looking forward to spinning my discs at reguarly
Apart from that it's been relaxed more or less, I gave a listen to Christian O'Connell on Virgin this morning after finding out about his presenter competition and he's one of those who despite hosting a prestigous slot on the station, doesn't need people around him all the time to make him sound good. Although that's not to say that he can't handle the raucousness of a zoo format as heard in the past and when he was on XFM.
Right, my major aim today is to actually buy some fizzy stuff, probably not that strong so to save on the pennies but I'm bloody dying for a drink.
Giving Away The Secrets
An MSN conversation with Stoobie ended up as a phone call from him and the rest of his housemates where they were discussing how Freshers Week should be marketed in September.
It seems that Stoobie as well as Chris, Phil H and Pete really are focused into how we get out to the Freshers next year and I basically gave them a few ideas of how we could achieve that both on and off air whilst going off into little tangents about pasta and party poppers which I can't remember why.
It's nice to know that I'm not being forgotten but I really want to try out other things this Freshers Week such as helping out on our stall at the Freshers Fayre and help to make the shows that go out on air the perfect introduction to the Uni experience both in Harrow and on Central.
The boys ended up giving me the title of "production consultant" which is flattering but I'm sure by the end of Freshers Week itself they'll be more than capable themselves.
I'm hoping that the house that the boys live in doesn't end up like the one shared by the Big L DJs in the documentary but Stoobie's confident that they won't live and breath radio whilst being passionate at the same time.
I'm also certain that Stevie our news editor and programming editors Phil L and Sam are feeling the same way although we haven't really heard from them just yet. But unlike last year I'm not worried about the circumstances and it appears we don't want too many drastic changes.
It seems that Stoobie as well as Chris, Phil H and Pete really are focused into how we get out to the Freshers next year and I basically gave them a few ideas of how we could achieve that both on and off air whilst going off into little tangents about pasta and party poppers which I can't remember why.
It's nice to know that I'm not being forgotten but I really want to try out other things this Freshers Week such as helping out on our stall at the Freshers Fayre and help to make the shows that go out on air the perfect introduction to the Uni experience both in Harrow and on Central.
The boys ended up giving me the title of "production consultant" which is flattering but I'm sure by the end of Freshers Week itself they'll be more than capable themselves.
I'm hoping that the house that the boys live in doesn't end up like the one shared by the Big L DJs in the documentary but Stoobie's confident that they won't live and breath radio whilst being passionate at the same time.
I'm also certain that Stevie our news editor and programming editors Phil L and Sam are feeling the same way although we haven't really heard from them just yet. But unlike last year I'm not worried about the circumstances and it appears we don't want too many drastic changes.
Monday, July 09, 2007
"Dying For An iBook"
I was discussing earlier about wishing that there was some sort of X-Factor competition in order to find new radio talent and it appears Virgin Radio are doing just that.
Christian O'Connell has launched "Opportunity Knocks" giving listeners the chance to send a recording of themselves doing their own link for the station in their own inimitable style.
They had to launch it in the summer didn't they! When I've got no access to any professional recording equipment and the mic on my laptop does no favours at all.
As the title of this post suggests Apple's laptops are far more proficient when it comes to recording and editing audio.
The fact that two ex Invicta FM presenters, John Osborne and their finest breakast presenter Neil Francis are part of the station line up is an even bigger reason to feel gutted about not entering but I'm not too worried. I may give it some consideration and if I feel confident enough I may splash out on a mic for my laptop.
To be honest though I think I need a rest from all this before Freshers Week and I am feeling the need to actually fulfill my wish of falling asleep for the whole summer!
Christian O'Connell has launched "Opportunity Knocks" giving listeners the chance to send a recording of themselves doing their own link for the station in their own inimitable style.
They had to launch it in the summer didn't they! When I've got no access to any professional recording equipment and the mic on my laptop does no favours at all.
As the title of this post suggests Apple's laptops are far more proficient when it comes to recording and editing audio.
The fact that two ex Invicta FM presenters, John Osborne and their finest breakast presenter Neil Francis are part of the station line up is an even bigger reason to feel gutted about not entering but I'm not too worried. I may give it some consideration and if I feel confident enough I may splash out on a mic for my laptop.
To be honest though I think I need a rest from all this before Freshers Week and I am feeling the need to actually fulfill my wish of falling asleep for the whole summer!
"Yeeeeeeeeeahhh!"
My mirth is at no end after discovering another Christmas tape from the archives nearby Camden Lock. The saviour of TV-AM Roland Rat and his mates unleashing a few four letter words.
The first outtake ended up on Alright On The Night in the mid 80s and I reckon I wore out the VHS it was on by repeatedly wanting to hear Kevin the Gerbil say "Ohh, bugger".
I actually have the album somwhere which includes the hit "Rat Rapping" as well as a few rather dodgy but entertaining covers of "Summer Holiday" and "Love Me Tender".
David Claridge, the voice behind the puppets later beamed up to the BBC's Saturday morning summer show "Parallel 9" in the early 90s with Brian the dinosaur from Rotherham and his baby brother Derek, where Brian had a fetish for heavy metal whilst Derek preferred Take That.
I'm pretty certain that Incognito made an appearance performing "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing' adding to the rather quirky nature of the show.
I've been suffering from a lack of fruity liquid so tomorrow it will be down to Morrisons to relieve my elongated thirst. I may even buy some of the stronger stuff too!
The first outtake ended up on Alright On The Night in the mid 80s and I reckon I wore out the VHS it was on by repeatedly wanting to hear Kevin the Gerbil say "Ohh, bugger".
I actually have the album somwhere which includes the hit "Rat Rapping" as well as a few rather dodgy but entertaining covers of "Summer Holiday" and "Love Me Tender".
David Claridge, the voice behind the puppets later beamed up to the BBC's Saturday morning summer show "Parallel 9" in the early 90s with Brian the dinosaur from Rotherham and his baby brother Derek, where Brian had a fetish for heavy metal whilst Derek preferred Take That.
I'm pretty certain that Incognito made an appearance performing "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing' adding to the rather quirky nature of the show.
I've been suffering from a lack of fruity liquid so tomorrow it will be down to Morrisons to relieve my elongated thirst. I may even buy some of the stronger stuff too!
"Who Slipped Prozac In My Drink?"
I don't know what's with me today, I'm in an incredibly enthusiastic mood and seem to be able to respond to anything that anyone says that even I don't know is about to exit my mouth.
I'm finding myself now being able to do something that I was told by Geoffrey Davies etc in lectures two years ago, ask myself when watching television or listening to radio "why is this happening?", "does it work on screen/out of the speakers" it's bonkers really.
Anyway my listening highlight tonight was the last in the current series of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue which had one of the worst digs at Lionel Blair in the introduction to the popular "Sound Charades" round "When Lionel appeared in panto in Snow White.
at times he felt Happy.... and at others he would come over Grumpy"
Ian Pattison is definitely the unsung hero of the show writing the witty lines for Humph to deliver in his irreplacable manner.
As for next week Nicholas Parsons is back with radio's most devious panel game
"Just A Minute" which I've enjoyed listening to for many years and have even seen live when they came to Canterbury 5 years ago almost to the day. It was even more exciting as they had TV cameras filming the action for an Arena documentary shown at Xmas later in the year which has to be one of the best documentaries about radio and time that I've ever seen. Hopefully BBC Four will see fit to repeating it.
I'm finding myself now being able to do something that I was told by Geoffrey Davies etc in lectures two years ago, ask myself when watching television or listening to radio "why is this happening?", "does it work on screen/out of the speakers" it's bonkers really.
Anyway my listening highlight tonight was the last in the current series of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue which had one of the worst digs at Lionel Blair in the introduction to the popular "Sound Charades" round "When Lionel appeared in panto in Snow White.
at times he felt Happy.... and at others he would come over Grumpy"
Ian Pattison is definitely the unsung hero of the show writing the witty lines for Humph to deliver in his irreplacable manner.
As for next week Nicholas Parsons is back with radio's most devious panel game
"Just A Minute" which I've enjoyed listening to for many years and have even seen live when they came to Canterbury 5 years ago almost to the day. It was even more exciting as they had TV cameras filming the action for an Arena documentary shown at Xmas later in the year which has to be one of the best documentaries about radio and time that I've ever seen. Hopefully BBC Four will see fit to repeating it.
"Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now"
I've been on fire from the moment I woke up this morning working on both the production and specialist entries for the SRAs. This may be the first time I've ever properly analysed a written piece of work by actually reading it out loud and correcting myself by trying to avoid using the same word twice in a sentence. That doesn't necessarily mean that it will extend to this blog!
The feedback has been fantastic and constructive from Ricky, Ross T and of course Matthew and I'm actually starting to realise that most of the time his advice is right although we can't always agree on everything which is the same with anyone you work with. Overall though it's just superb.
Right now I'm probably feeling more full of ideas than ever before and really want to make my show focused towards the Freshers when I return next year which is something I've never felt before. It's mainly becuase I want to give them something I didn't get when starting University as Freshers for me was very empty. However this time round I'm really full of determination whilst trying my very best to keep grounded at the same time and if any second thoughts come to mind I will take them.
I guess it's best to just continue that way and expect downfalls at any time.
The feedback has been fantastic and constructive from Ricky, Ross T and of course Matthew and I'm actually starting to realise that most of the time his advice is right although we can't always agree on everything which is the same with anyone you work with. Overall though it's just superb.
Right now I'm probably feeling more full of ideas than ever before and really want to make my show focused towards the Freshers when I return next year which is something I've never felt before. It's mainly becuase I want to give them something I didn't get when starting University as Freshers for me was very empty. However this time round I'm really full of determination whilst trying my very best to keep grounded at the same time and if any second thoughts come to mind I will take them.
I guess it's best to just continue that way and expect downfalls at any time.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
The Tour De Canters
I made my way up to the road near the East Station where a long line of people were present to see the cyclists and many French manufacturers throw out freebies at the Tour De France.
There was a lot of excitement around the place especially as every two people standing ahead and behind me had a whistle so it did get rather rowdy.
I also managed to meet up with Hon who's graduating next week on a successfull BA in Mathematics who's just about to start a masters degree in the same subject. He's been doing pretty well for himself since we last saw each other at the Abbey unit reopening and we had a chat about all sorts of things including both our universities incosistency with timetables and work being handed back to us late or in some cases never.
I've now realised since starting University that it's not just students who are unorganised.
I was sweating quite badly and starting to dehydrate as a result of having nothing to drink all day but I managed to stick around for quite a while to see the cyclists rush past followed by the cars with the spare bicycles.
Hopefully they'll make another visit back here sometime!
There was a lot of excitement around the place especially as every two people standing ahead and behind me had a whistle so it did get rather rowdy.
I also managed to meet up with Hon who's graduating next week on a successfull BA in Mathematics who's just about to start a masters degree in the same subject. He's been doing pretty well for himself since we last saw each other at the Abbey unit reopening and we had a chat about all sorts of things including both our universities incosistency with timetables and work being handed back to us late or in some cases never.
I've now realised since starting University that it's not just students who are unorganised.
I was sweating quite badly and starting to dehydrate as a result of having nothing to drink all day but I managed to stick around for quite a while to see the cyclists rush past followed by the cars with the spare bicycles.
Hopefully they'll make another visit back here sometime!
Listen Without Prejudice
Two more offerings I've found whilst sorting stuff out for our station entry, first of all Sport On Smoke.
After listening back to the shows, Steve definitely deserved his prize at the
Smoke Awards at the end of the year as he managed to bring the show to a new level by making it more focused towards University sport and making the show a soap opera of some sorts with members of each team becoming regulars each week giving the updates on their games or in some cases lack of due to other teams not showing up.
There were also new features including "Stat Attack" where Steve and the team took it in turns to outdo each other with random sports stats often leading to a few arguments!
Once again it's made me more aware of the sports teams on campus and that definitely showed on the Rimini reunion night at the Undercroft and Area.
And pundit Sean Curran definitely has one of the best voices on the station!
The second offering is the Crossway which went out with James on Sunday afternoons playing contemporary worship music and a feature called "Mug Or No Mug" where listeners would have to decide whether producer Dave was wrong in making a schoolboy error.
Only in this case it's not Dave but Ross Powell revealing a mishap which should be a lesson to any wannabe journalist or radio presenter.
I can remember this particular show being rather good mainly because technical problems meant that James couldn't play any of his jingles or namechecks in the middle of songs!
The feature itself was originally called "Mugger Or Mugs" but after it's introduction they had to change it after realising both words meant the same thing!
I've now come to the conclusion that the phrase "it's only radio" is bollocks.
Not when it comes to worrying about mistakes but the fact that the majority of specialist and magazine based shows on Smoke have broadened my interests and have made me probably want to develop them further in future.
And it's going to help in the third year as I want to make the effort to find out about others on campus and them overall rather than just how radio plays a part in their lives.
After listening back to the shows, Steve definitely deserved his prize at the
Smoke Awards at the end of the year as he managed to bring the show to a new level by making it more focused towards University sport and making the show a soap opera of some sorts with members of each team becoming regulars each week giving the updates on their games or in some cases lack of due to other teams not showing up.
There were also new features including "Stat Attack" where Steve and the team took it in turns to outdo each other with random sports stats often leading to a few arguments!
Once again it's made me more aware of the sports teams on campus and that definitely showed on the Rimini reunion night at the Undercroft and Area.
And pundit Sean Curran definitely has one of the best voices on the station!
The second offering is the Crossway which went out with James on Sunday afternoons playing contemporary worship music and a feature called "Mug Or No Mug" where listeners would have to decide whether producer Dave was wrong in making a schoolboy error.
Only in this case it's not Dave but Ross Powell revealing a mishap which should be a lesson to any wannabe journalist or radio presenter.
I can remember this particular show being rather good mainly because technical problems meant that James couldn't play any of his jingles or namechecks in the middle of songs!
The feature itself was originally called "Mugger Or Mugs" but after it's introduction they had to change it after realising both words meant the same thing!
I've now come to the conclusion that the phrase "it's only radio" is bollocks.
Not when it comes to worrying about mistakes but the fact that the majority of specialist and magazine based shows on Smoke have broadened my interests and have made me probably want to develop them further in future.
And it's going to help in the third year as I want to make the effort to find out about others on campus and them overall rather than just how radio plays a part in their lives.
Your Best Bet
Here's something that defines comedy gold, an ad for Carling Black Label from the late 80s which really takes the mickey out of the many scenarios that took place in the ads, but proves that it can work if you get the timing right. And if your not familiar with the campaign itself it probably won't be as amusing.
The ad was originally posted on Youtube but unfortunately it cut off right before the end which I've altered slightly for the clip above.
A possible campaign to analyse on the advertising module next year?
So today is Tour De France day where this afternoon several bikers will be going through Canterbury although it's not the first time it's happened here as 13 years ago, most of us managed to get the morning off school to see the cyclists go through Wincheap as they'd extended the route that year to celebrate the opening of the Channel Tunnel.
The ad was originally posted on Youtube but unfortunately it cut off right before the end which I've altered slightly for the clip above.
A possible campaign to analyse on the advertising module next year?
So today is Tour De France day where this afternoon several bikers will be going through Canterbury although it's not the first time it's happened here as 13 years ago, most of us managed to get the morning off school to see the cyclists go through Wincheap as they'd extended the route that year to celebrate the opening of the Channel Tunnel.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Youtube Does It Again!
This really is a top upload, the titles to the CBBC review show Take Two from 1990 with Phillip Schofield!
These titles for me simply represent the definitive age of television and showing it with bursts of various opening titles including of course Going Live! and the ITV Chart Show, with a theme tune of it's time to match! This was a brilliant programme mainly because of the studio debates and I can remember Phillip saying in an interview when the series made it's bow in 1996, that nobody ever sat on the fence and if they thought a presenter or programme was rubbish they would say so.
Those of a certain age would be more likely to remember the later titles with those weirdly lit men holding TV screens ending with a rather badly recorded voice;
"take TWO!"
That's what today's television is missing, a proper soapbox outlet for viewers now both that and Channel 4's Right To Reply have gone although Wogan on POV still comes up with the goods on a slightly lower scale.
On a similar note I'm tempted to buy a webcam so whenever I'm in a ranting mood video posts would start appearing as I doubt writing does my serious opinions justice.
These titles for me simply represent the definitive age of television and showing it with bursts of various opening titles including of course Going Live! and the ITV Chart Show, with a theme tune of it's time to match! This was a brilliant programme mainly because of the studio debates and I can remember Phillip saying in an interview when the series made it's bow in 1996, that nobody ever sat on the fence and if they thought a presenter or programme was rubbish they would say so.
Those of a certain age would be more likely to remember the later titles with those weirdly lit men holding TV screens ending with a rather badly recorded voice;
"take TWO!"
That's what today's television is missing, a proper soapbox outlet for viewers now both that and Channel 4's Right To Reply have gone although Wogan on POV still comes up with the goods on a slightly lower scale.
On a similar note I'm tempted to buy a webcam so whenever I'm in a ranting mood video posts would start appearing as I doubt writing does my serious opinions justice.
"Hot Town, Summer In The City"
I can't tell you how much I'm loving this weather from the comfort of my bedroom with the windows wide open.
Just being able to endure the odour of many garden barbecues and clear skies, for once! is just superb.
This kind of gives me an excuse to talk about the ice cream vans that can be heard going past mainly in the evenings, and the tune that they're chiming for some reason is
"Popeye The Sailorman". I can't look at the song in the most sensible manner for obvious reasons but I loved the animated series where Olive Oyl was in an army with a soldier called Alice who always spoke in a funny squeaky voice. One of Hanna Barbera's better offerings.
Our visitors from Colchester have arrived and we heard Alison's anecdote about meeting Maureen Lipman and her promising that she'd get to appear as a guest on "This Is Your Life". Oddly enough when the time came it didn't happen although Maureen happened to be present at the Great Hall on Tuesday when I went to visit BBC Radio Kent.
One thing I'll definitely never have is an "ology".
Just being able to endure the odour of many garden barbecues and clear skies, for once! is just superb.
This kind of gives me an excuse to talk about the ice cream vans that can be heard going past mainly in the evenings, and the tune that they're chiming for some reason is
"Popeye The Sailorman". I can't look at the song in the most sensible manner for obvious reasons but I loved the animated series where Olive Oyl was in an army with a soldier called Alice who always spoke in a funny squeaky voice. One of Hanna Barbera's better offerings.
Our visitors from Colchester have arrived and we heard Alison's anecdote about meeting Maureen Lipman and her promising that she'd get to appear as a guest on "This Is Your Life". Oddly enough when the time came it didn't happen although Maureen happened to be present at the Great Hall on Tuesday when I went to visit BBC Radio Kent.
One thing I'll definitely never have is an "ology".
Jack Of All Trades, Masters Are Elsewhere!
On the day when I could have been sunning myself outside, I was made to work under the orders of Ross T and Ricky via Windows Live. They were asking for audio they thought would sound good in our best station entry for this years SRAs with the aim being to reflect how we have managed to reach our audience and have fun at the same time.
I've spent most of the day uploading various pieces of audio whilst having Live Earth on in the background where there have been cracking performances so far by Duran Duran, The Black Eyed Peas and John Legend.
I'm really glad that Ricky etc are looking at the awards in the same way as I am, by not just choosing moments from the year that we thought were funny, but how they fit into the criteria that the judges are looking for.
I've also learnt this week overall not have any grudges at other students who are working in radio but to get their advice from themselves and their colleagues which is very useful and inspiring.
I had to upload one paticular moment from May where Ricky and Ross G sent me out to blag as many birthday presents as I could from the various sites on campus.
This quite frankly has to be the silliest thing I've ever done on t'wireless but it really shows how radio can indeed be fun.
I've also learnt to not worry too much if we don't win this year but to continue making ourselves stronger and having a gander round the dial is definitley worth it.
Especially as I stumbled across KMFM Rocks! last night with Richard Walters which is just amazing.
A wide and fantastic barrage of rock music past and present as shown on the playlists above with great production and a presenter who you can tell is very passionate and open. Definitley one of the stand out shows on local radio here in Kent and it's given me plenty of ideas for the soul show next year production wise.
We really need more shows of this type on radio who can make musical genres acccesible to a wider audience and Richard's show is the prime example with an increase in RAJAR figures for the timeslot. Definitely a sign of radio moving forward or in this case back to how it used to be in terms of excitement.
I've spent most of the day uploading various pieces of audio whilst having Live Earth on in the background where there have been cracking performances so far by Duran Duran, The Black Eyed Peas and John Legend.
I'm really glad that Ricky etc are looking at the awards in the same way as I am, by not just choosing moments from the year that we thought were funny, but how they fit into the criteria that the judges are looking for.
I've also learnt this week overall not have any grudges at other students who are working in radio but to get their advice from themselves and their colleagues which is very useful and inspiring.
I had to upload one paticular moment from May where Ricky and Ross G sent me out to blag as many birthday presents as I could from the various sites on campus.
This quite frankly has to be the silliest thing I've ever done on t'wireless but it really shows how radio can indeed be fun.
I've also learnt to not worry too much if we don't win this year but to continue making ourselves stronger and having a gander round the dial is definitley worth it.
Especially as I stumbled across KMFM Rocks! last night with Richard Walters which is just amazing.
A wide and fantastic barrage of rock music past and present as shown on the playlists above with great production and a presenter who you can tell is very passionate and open. Definitley one of the stand out shows on local radio here in Kent and it's given me plenty of ideas for the soul show next year production wise.
We really need more shows of this type on radio who can make musical genres acccesible to a wider audience and Richard's show is the prime example with an increase in RAJAR figures for the timeslot. Definitely a sign of radio moving forward or in this case back to how it used to be in terms of excitement.
Short Hot Summer
Absoulutely gorgeous out there this morning, ideal weather for me to get a few things in Canterbury including Olly's birthday present for Monday.
Things are definitely looking good for the Tour De France tomorrow
Live Earth takes place this afternoon which I may have a gander at and with Jonathan Ross at the helm, it should be irrevently enjoyable. On the positive side of performances there's John Legend, and Spinal Tap amongst others although on the not so positive side is James Blunt.
There's quite a few good acts performing overseas including Crowded House in Sydney, and Alicia Keys in New York City.
I'm not expecting it to be too special with the ever increasing amount of large scale concerts but it will be ideal accompaniment with the windows open and a nice breeze coming through.
I may even bring the fizzy water and juice upstairs as well!
Things are definitely looking good for the Tour De France tomorrow
Live Earth takes place this afternoon which I may have a gander at and with Jonathan Ross at the helm, it should be irrevently enjoyable. On the positive side of performances there's John Legend, and Spinal Tap amongst others although on the not so positive side is James Blunt.
There's quite a few good acts performing overseas including Crowded House in Sydney, and Alicia Keys in New York City.
I'm not expecting it to be too special with the ever increasing amount of large scale concerts but it will be ideal accompaniment with the windows open and a nice breeze coming through.
I may even bring the fizzy water and juice upstairs as well!
Friday, July 06, 2007
Avoiding The "Water Cycles"
Today's probably been the first day in over a fortnight when it hasn't rained. Although it hasn't been blazing the overall weather's been pleasant enough for me to have the windows left open.
Hopefully things will stay the same this weekend especially for the Tour De France on Sunday. We've got a few more visitors coming as well, one of mum's friends from Colchester who's bringing her family to stay over.
This week's Grooveline had to be one of the best where Stephen's guest John brought along some cracking tracks such as Chuck Jackson's "All Over The World"; a soulful dance track from 1989 and a superb one from Cheryl Lynn with a bit of help from EWF.
Also featured was the stunning solo track from Phillip Bailey called "Vaya" which will definitely be on the first soul show when I get back in September.
And rather controversially I'm very tempted to check out some of his subsequent gospel material.
The threeplay was the overall highlight, a little know vocalist called Barbara Pennington with some stunning rare groove tunes including "24 Hours A Day" and "On A Crowded Street". Great melodies and a superb vocalist.
In my other radio journey I'm now in mid February where just about every show was a Valentines themed show. The best of all had to be from Phil and Sam's Dinner Party and for me this was their overall highlight from the year, Date Or Mate where Sam had to choose a date from either Nana Charlie, Phil Landers, Stoobie or Kelly.
I just love how both the presenters sound excited as Sam's about to reveal her date which goes to show that if you have the right production, a radio item can sound great even if it is just the Countdown Clock!
I tended to take an alternative route with my show that week with the first record being Incognito with "Who Needs Love", whilst the Shuffle boys went one further with "The Post Valentines Alone Show".
Overall this listening experience really has broadened my musical interests and has given me a few ideas for future record purchases. Once again, there will be no excuse to be bored in the future.
Hopefully things will stay the same this weekend especially for the Tour De France on Sunday. We've got a few more visitors coming as well, one of mum's friends from Colchester who's bringing her family to stay over.
This week's Grooveline had to be one of the best where Stephen's guest John brought along some cracking tracks such as Chuck Jackson's "All Over The World"; a soulful dance track from 1989 and a superb one from Cheryl Lynn with a bit of help from EWF.
Also featured was the stunning solo track from Phillip Bailey called "Vaya" which will definitely be on the first soul show when I get back in September.
And rather controversially I'm very tempted to check out some of his subsequent gospel material.
The threeplay was the overall highlight, a little know vocalist called Barbara Pennington with some stunning rare groove tunes including "24 Hours A Day" and "On A Crowded Street". Great melodies and a superb vocalist.
In my other radio journey I'm now in mid February where just about every show was a Valentines themed show. The best of all had to be from Phil and Sam's Dinner Party and for me this was their overall highlight from the year, Date Or Mate where Sam had to choose a date from either Nana Charlie, Phil Landers, Stoobie or Kelly.
I just love how both the presenters sound excited as Sam's about to reveal her date which goes to show that if you have the right production, a radio item can sound great even if it is just the Countdown Clock!
I tended to take an alternative route with my show that week with the first record being Incognito with "Who Needs Love", whilst the Shuffle boys went one further with "The Post Valentines Alone Show".
Overall this listening experience really has broadened my musical interests and has given me a few ideas for future record purchases. Once again, there will be no excuse to be bored in the future.
"If You're Ready, Here They Come!"
Tom, one of the third year students on the radio course once commented on a photo of the Smoke Radio team at last years SRAs saying that it was "the future of British Radio".
Definitlely the case when listening to Ken Bruce in the last couple of days with a certain Mark Jackson making sure the Scotsman pressed the right buttons for Lynn Bowles' traffic report!
I can't get through a day without listening to Popmaster which even after all these years is still addictive. I may be tempted to ring up to have a go myself as I normally get an average of 30 points. I reckon it's because it's a simple format which is well produced on air and because it's on a subject I'm very dear to!
Apart from that my listening schedule today also consists of Grooveline on Blast with another Scotsman at the helm, two in fact as Stephen's joined by a guy called John who made a name for himself spinning jazz funk throughout the Highlands. Should be a really interesting listen in terms of both music and accents.
Definitlely the case when listening to Ken Bruce in the last couple of days with a certain Mark Jackson making sure the Scotsman pressed the right buttons for Lynn Bowles' traffic report!
I can't get through a day without listening to Popmaster which even after all these years is still addictive. I may be tempted to ring up to have a go myself as I normally get an average of 30 points. I reckon it's because it's a simple format which is well produced on air and because it's on a subject I'm very dear to!
Apart from that my listening schedule today also consists of Grooveline on Blast with another Scotsman at the helm, two in fact as Stephen's joined by a guy called John who made a name for himself spinning jazz funk throughout the Highlands. Should be a really interesting listen in terms of both music and accents.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Musically Enlightened
Still on my aural journey, moving the soul show to it's old Wednesday timeslot really was the right idea in the second semester as it helped to make a brilliant evening schedule which gelled really well together. My show was sandwiched in between
Smoke International and Jazz Etc, and the latter was definitely overlooked by the other station members in my opinion.
Listening back to one of the shows, it included a brilliant take on "My Favourite Things" by saxophonist John Coltrane lasting a record 12 minutes but worth every second.
The piano riff was sampled by the Quiet Boys who were on the Acid Jazz label in the early 90s on a track called "Modal" which I found on an Acid Jazz compilation whilst on holiday in Devon 5 years ago and it's so good to finally find the original.
I'd also reccomend listening to another take on the Rogers and Hammerstein number by Carmen Lundy on her album "Self Portrait". I can remember a review saying that Carmen had the vocal ability to make a McDonalds menu sound appealing. If that happened I would be in stitches but really enthused at the same time.
It was also the ideal move for the Shuffle boys as they'd now moved to Thursdays after "Smokin' Records" which blended in just as brilliantly. In fact I seem to remember Jon always referring to Adam and Zo as their "sister show".
The duo celebrated the occasion by making "Thursdays" the theme of their show and in their quirky manner played Brian Eno's 60 minute long "Thursday Afternoon" during all their links and had it playing throughout the show!
Bob Dylan should be expecting a lawsuit from the Shuffle boys for doing a similar thing for his radio show!
Smoke International and Jazz Etc, and the latter was definitely overlooked by the other station members in my opinion.
Listening back to one of the shows, it included a brilliant take on "My Favourite Things" by saxophonist John Coltrane lasting a record 12 minutes but worth every second.
The piano riff was sampled by the Quiet Boys who were on the Acid Jazz label in the early 90s on a track called "Modal" which I found on an Acid Jazz compilation whilst on holiday in Devon 5 years ago and it's so good to finally find the original.
I'd also reccomend listening to another take on the Rogers and Hammerstein number by Carmen Lundy on her album "Self Portrait". I can remember a review saying that Carmen had the vocal ability to make a McDonalds menu sound appealing. If that happened I would be in stitches but really enthused at the same time.
It was also the ideal move for the Shuffle boys as they'd now moved to Thursdays after "Smokin' Records" which blended in just as brilliantly. In fact I seem to remember Jon always referring to Adam and Zo as their "sister show".
The duo celebrated the occasion by making "Thursdays" the theme of their show and in their quirky manner played Brian Eno's 60 minute long "Thursday Afternoon" during all their links and had it playing throughout the show!
Bob Dylan should be expecting a lawsuit from the Shuffle boys for doing a similar thing for his radio show!
Heavy Metal Ranting
I doubt this will end up being submitted in our station entry for the SRA's but it's definitely worth a listen. Our very own Tudor Gent, never afraid to speak his mind and a rant about immigration.
A prime example of the Tudor coming into his own and I'm really looking forward to revisiting the show which just about every link was a rant as a result of broadcasting from the infamous Studio 4.
However this gives an excuse for a rant of my own and I've stumbled on a link from another show and a presenter who shall remain nameless trying to make himself sound knowledgable "coming up now is Dreams by The Cranberries previously covered by the Coors and originally by Fleetwood Mac".
Thank goodness he didn't mention Gabrielle in that link. One to include in the second edition of Essential Radio Skills perhaps?
Nothing's really planned for this weekend, I may treat myself actually and buy some breezers as I can't have a completely booze-free summer. I may be tempted to buy a mini fridge for my room in halls next year although it just goes to show how lazy I really am.
A prime example of the Tudor coming into his own and I'm really looking forward to revisiting the show which just about every link was a rant as a result of broadcasting from the infamous Studio 4.
However this gives an excuse for a rant of my own and I've stumbled on a link from another show and a presenter who shall remain nameless trying to make himself sound knowledgable "coming up now is Dreams by The Cranberries previously covered by the Coors and originally by Fleetwood Mac".
Thank goodness he didn't mention Gabrielle in that link. One to include in the second edition of Essential Radio Skills perhaps?
Nothing's really planned for this weekend, I may treat myself actually and buy some breezers as I can't have a completely booze-free summer. I may be tempted to buy a mini fridge for my room in halls next year although it just goes to show how lazy I really am.
Overlooking The Empty Hole
That's what it felt like when I visited the offices of the cross college support department to see how everyone was getting on. It was nice to see all of the support assistants such as Nora, Sally and Leisa although Mike who I had helping me for quite a lot of my time at Canterbury College wasn't there as he was at home sorting his washing out!
They're still continuing with the building of the new college facilities including those for the Media department which should be up and running by September and they've finally set a date for the much awaited top up course from the HND media course! Basically it's a 15 month course that allows you to top up your HND to a degree which quite a few people from my year and the one above me wanted to undertake. They've now managed to reach a deal with Greenwich University to make it feasable but I reckon now I really did make the right decision to go and do the radio course at Westminster. Especially as the top-up doesn't start until September 2008!
It saddens me that there are not many students on these courses who have genuine enthusiasm for what they are studying and drive to go even further. Fair enough you get quite a lot of self indulgent theory lectures which can be off putting but there were only four students who showed an interest in wanting to move on from the HND to a University degree.
One or two others have done pretty well have gone on to work for post production companies in London and another now works as a floor manager for a shopping channel.
But overall there are several people who sign up for these courses and either drop out halfway through or disrupt lectures by going on about how much they think they know.
However I'm really glad that I had the HND course to get to grips with writing essays academically otherwise I'd be screwed on my Uni course.
They're still continuing with the building of the new college facilities including those for the Media department which should be up and running by September and they've finally set a date for the much awaited top up course from the HND media course! Basically it's a 15 month course that allows you to top up your HND to a degree which quite a few people from my year and the one above me wanted to undertake. They've now managed to reach a deal with Greenwich University to make it feasable but I reckon now I really did make the right decision to go and do the radio course at Westminster. Especially as the top-up doesn't start until September 2008!
It saddens me that there are not many students on these courses who have genuine enthusiasm for what they are studying and drive to go even further. Fair enough you get quite a lot of self indulgent theory lectures which can be off putting but there were only four students who showed an interest in wanting to move on from the HND to a University degree.
One or two others have done pretty well have gone on to work for post production companies in London and another now works as a floor manager for a shopping channel.
But overall there are several people who sign up for these courses and either drop out halfway through or disrupt lectures by going on about how much they think they know.
However I'm really glad that I had the HND course to get to grips with writing essays academically otherwise I'd be screwed on my Uni course.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
"Souled Out"
I've just listened to what has to be my worst radio show from last year which was the week I had a sore throat. I've always been determined to not let a week go by without doing the soul show especially with the music being more important than myself but I was dreadful that week as I hadn't switched on the equaliser making myself sound even worse. And I thought that was impossible.
My links were atrocious too as I missed the opportunity to segue from a cover of "Alfie" by Burt Bacharach and Ron Isley to George Benson and Al Jarreau's cover of
"Summer Breeze" by the Isley's themselves from that month's featured album.
Though I did feel the need to make a snide remark about Ron's personal life which ended up being reused in the pilot for "The Retro Room" a few weeks later.
I really think the featured album for each month has been a great if not entirely orginal addition to the show helping to make the preparation even quicker by having two tracks each week sorted in advance. I've even got a few ideas for what to include for later in the year with the late Rick James' final album "Deeper Still" eventually being released, and a rarity from another deceased performer which I'm really happy to have got hold of;
Lou Rawls with "Love All Your Blues Away" which includes the much played
"Stop Me From Starting This Feeling".
I can remember playing that tune to Paul Calvert who had put one of his earlier tracks in the running order for the "Funk Soul Nation" assessed show and how he really didn't like what he was hearing. However being able to deal with it with his brilliant sense of humour, I'm not too fussed.
My links were atrocious too as I missed the opportunity to segue from a cover of "Alfie" by Burt Bacharach and Ron Isley to George Benson and Al Jarreau's cover of
"Summer Breeze" by the Isley's themselves from that month's featured album.
Though I did feel the need to make a snide remark about Ron's personal life which ended up being reused in the pilot for "The Retro Room" a few weeks later.
I really think the featured album for each month has been a great if not entirely orginal addition to the show helping to make the preparation even quicker by having two tracks each week sorted in advance. I've even got a few ideas for what to include for later in the year with the late Rick James' final album "Deeper Still" eventually being released, and a rarity from another deceased performer which I'm really happy to have got hold of;
Lou Rawls with "Love All Your Blues Away" which includes the much played
"Stop Me From Starting This Feeling".
I can remember playing that tune to Paul Calvert who had put one of his earlier tracks in the running order for the "Funk Soul Nation" assessed show and how he really didn't like what he was hearing. However being able to deal with it with his brilliant sense of humour, I'm not too fussed.
"Schtepp In Toime!"
I get a craving when listening back to these shows or radio overall to be in the studio with whoever's presenting so I can fire back at anything bizarre or witty that comes out their mouths.
One such instance being on the Punk Show with Josie playing a superb cover by the Vandals of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" from Mary Poppins where the host mentions "such a brilliant song just impossible to spell". One answer to that, go and see the West End play where they spell it out as part of the song!
Josie's obviously a big fan of the song as shown when we were doing the practical TV module in the first year where the brummie gave a rendition of the song as part of a camera exercise which lead to much hilarity when watching back!
I always get the idea that those doing TV have more fun than us radio lot.
That's another thing I must try to do next year, go and see more plays although to be fair I have seen at least one for each year respectively with "Billy Elliot" in the first and the brilliant "Avenue Q" in the second.
And the CD soundtrack is definitley reccomended as when listening through headphones (as I do with practically all of my audio) it really sounds exactly the same as it does in the theatre. I may pay a second visit to that play in the third year.
One such instance being on the Punk Show with Josie playing a superb cover by the Vandals of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" from Mary Poppins where the host mentions "such a brilliant song just impossible to spell". One answer to that, go and see the West End play where they spell it out as part of the song!
Josie's obviously a big fan of the song as shown when we were doing the practical TV module in the first year where the brummie gave a rendition of the song as part of a camera exercise which lead to much hilarity when watching back!
I always get the idea that those doing TV have more fun than us radio lot.
That's another thing I must try to do next year, go and see more plays although to be fair I have seen at least one for each year respectively with "Billy Elliot" in the first and the brilliant "Avenue Q" in the second.
And the CD soundtrack is definitley reccomended as when listening through headphones (as I do with practically all of my audio) it really sounds exactly the same as it does in the theatre. I may pay a second visit to that play in the third year.
Possible Nominations?
After sitting in on the prospects meeting at BBC Radio Kent yesterday I listened to this mornings Breakfast programme to hear what stories made it in. Unsurprisingly the mini cabs item wasn't featured but one that was involved a woman from an equestrian ground in Ashford unhappy that they had to be closed to make way for the Tour De France. Unforunately she didn't come across as outspoken as I the meeting hinted and it resulted in me using the rewind function of my Bug as my mind was drifted elsewhere during the interview.
However there was another story which oddly enough wasn't discussed in the running order involving a man with a back injury had to make the decision to either lose his carer or lose his house. You could sense his anguish during the interview and extracts ended up being used in the subsequent news bulletins throughout the morning.
With the deadline for this years SRAs getting closer I've been inundated with e-mails from people asking me to provide them with their shows from the last year which they plan to submit. I've done a bit of work on the production entry and the soul show entry and I hope to get some constructive feedback from all involved in making sure they get submitted.
In my continuing my aural journey I've now reached late January/early February where quite a few changes took place on air.
These included Stewart finally getting a full time on air role as Pete's right hand man replacing Pete's fellow residential assistant Jason, although he ended up as part of the witty but quirky duo Ben And Jason with their "Really Really Late/Really Really Early (depending on your point of view) Breakfast Show". I'm rather gutted that we won't be hearing from them next year as they've both finished their final year but they're one of my personal favourite shows from the last year.
Also making her debut was a lovely girl called Sefura who did a programme called
"Jazz Etc" which went out after my show each Wednesday. She used to travel from my hometown Forest Gate all the way in East London to record her show and played some really good music ranging from Ella to Corduroy.
The Sports show was still on top form with new arrival Sean Curran as a pundit alongside Steve whilst Ali was off in Wales, making the show sound even fresher with his distinctive Irish accent. And Shuffle as ever was innovative breaking the rules of traditional radio with a show with songs about clothes guest presented by Trinny and Suzannah who had voices very similar to that of regular presenters Adam Hodgkins and Zo Beig.
One of the songs in that show was by the Kombat Opera and "Corby Trouser Press" which had an female opera vocalist singing the instructions for a Corby Trouser Press accompanied by a really nice rhodes piano. This was released on album available through the Sonic Arts Network called "The Topography Of Chance" compiled by Stewart Lee, one half of a very underated comedy duo.
I've now signed up to the site myself and when I get a bit of extra bob I'm tempted to order the CD which also includes Mark E Smith of the Fall reading out the football results.
It says on the site that there are only 290 copies left so if they do run out then I'm sure Adam will be kind enough to lend me his copy.
However there was another story which oddly enough wasn't discussed in the running order involving a man with a back injury had to make the decision to either lose his carer or lose his house. You could sense his anguish during the interview and extracts ended up being used in the subsequent news bulletins throughout the morning.
With the deadline for this years SRAs getting closer I've been inundated with e-mails from people asking me to provide them with their shows from the last year which they plan to submit. I've done a bit of work on the production entry and the soul show entry and I hope to get some constructive feedback from all involved in making sure they get submitted.
In my continuing my aural journey I've now reached late January/early February where quite a few changes took place on air.
These included Stewart finally getting a full time on air role as Pete's right hand man replacing Pete's fellow residential assistant Jason, although he ended up as part of the witty but quirky duo Ben And Jason with their "Really Really Late/Really Really Early (depending on your point of view) Breakfast Show". I'm rather gutted that we won't be hearing from them next year as they've both finished their final year but they're one of my personal favourite shows from the last year.
Also making her debut was a lovely girl called Sefura who did a programme called
"Jazz Etc" which went out after my show each Wednesday. She used to travel from my hometown Forest Gate all the way in East London to record her show and played some really good music ranging from Ella to Corduroy.
The Sports show was still on top form with new arrival Sean Curran as a pundit alongside Steve whilst Ali was off in Wales, making the show sound even fresher with his distinctive Irish accent. And Shuffle as ever was innovative breaking the rules of traditional radio with a show with songs about clothes guest presented by Trinny and Suzannah who had voices very similar to that of regular presenters Adam Hodgkins and Zo Beig.
One of the songs in that show was by the Kombat Opera and "Corby Trouser Press" which had an female opera vocalist singing the instructions for a Corby Trouser Press accompanied by a really nice rhodes piano. This was released on album available through the Sonic Arts Network called "The Topography Of Chance" compiled by Stewart Lee, one half of a very underated comedy duo.
I've now signed up to the site myself and when I get a bit of extra bob I'm tempted to order the CD which also includes Mark E Smith of the Fall reading out the football results.
It says on the site that there are only 290 copies left so if they do run out then I'm sure Adam will be kind enough to lend me his copy.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Defining Musicality
I've recently joined a Facebook group by the name of "The I Hate R&B Club".
From the wall posts I've read, the title can be a bit misleading as the people who have joined including myself have a dislike more specifically for music that just contains repetitive chords and pretentious lyrics with no atmosphere.
My initial perception of R&B comes from listening to Trevor Nelson on Radio 1 in the mid to late 90s where you would always here stuff from acts such as Blackstreet, Ginuwine and D'Influence. Proper vocal soul with really sweet piano/rhodes chords being the perfect way to end a weekend.
Not forgetting current acts such as Jill Scott, Floetry and Angie Stone who continue the vein of sweet rhythms. But it's when acts like the above get put into the same league as lesser performers and rappers such as 50 Cent and P Diddy.
To be honest my personal reason for disliking this genre of music is the arrogance around it and nearly getting my glasses broken as a result of inconsiderate people at the Undercroft waving their arms violently.
One of the key reasons why I have a liking for vocal soul and jazz is partly because of the lyrical content which suggests "keep going", "don't give up" and other lapses of optimism. Acts such as Dennis Taylor (not the Irish snooker player), Swing Out Sister and Kyoto Jazz Massive all manage to blend the meaningful words with really sweet beats although I've heard similar lyrical content from the likes of Steps and S Club 7!
From the wall posts I've read, the title can be a bit misleading as the people who have joined including myself have a dislike more specifically for music that just contains repetitive chords and pretentious lyrics with no atmosphere.
My initial perception of R&B comes from listening to Trevor Nelson on Radio 1 in the mid to late 90s where you would always here stuff from acts such as Blackstreet, Ginuwine and D'Influence. Proper vocal soul with really sweet piano/rhodes chords being the perfect way to end a weekend.
Not forgetting current acts such as Jill Scott, Floetry and Angie Stone who continue the vein of sweet rhythms. But it's when acts like the above get put into the same league as lesser performers and rappers such as 50 Cent and P Diddy.
To be honest my personal reason for disliking this genre of music is the arrogance around it and nearly getting my glasses broken as a result of inconsiderate people at the Undercroft waving their arms violently.
One of the key reasons why I have a liking for vocal soul and jazz is partly because of the lyrical content which suggests "keep going", "don't give up" and other lapses of optimism. Acts such as Dennis Taylor (not the Irish snooker player), Swing Out Sister and Kyoto Jazz Massive all manage to blend the meaningful words with really sweet beats although I've heard similar lyrical content from the likes of Steps and S Club 7!
The NEXT Best Job?
My interview at Next earlier this evening just shot by, I was asked about things such as how I'd deal with someone not pulling their weight within a team which was one of the rare questions I felt really enthusiastic to answer!
I'll find out if I'm succesfull later on in the week but it seems like a really nice place with very pleasant staff. None of the Group Selection nonsense that ASDA enforces on new employees although having said that I completely avoided the process when I went for my interview for some reason or other.
However there's no need to remember the past apart from the more colourful moments and one thing that came up whilst I met Peter Stewart earlier today was Essex FM's jingles from the late 90s or to be more specific the top of hour ID which can be heard here as recorded back in 1997 and Ross T if your reading, this is how a news intro should sound!
By the time I started listening a few years later in their "Hotter And Fresher" phase, they were using a remixed version which wasn't as good although they still used
the "Essex ehhfeehhhm!" vocal as an acapella quite a few times as a general ID and it still sounded great along with other jingles from that package.
I'd love to hear a recording of the original jingle with Peter reading the forecast with those slide whistle noises signifying the high and low temperatures!
I'll find out if I'm succesfull later on in the week but it seems like a really nice place with very pleasant staff. None of the Group Selection nonsense that ASDA enforces on new employees although having said that I completely avoided the process when I went for my interview for some reason or other.
However there's no need to remember the past apart from the more colourful moments and one thing that came up whilst I met Peter Stewart earlier today was Essex FM's jingles from the late 90s or to be more specific the top of hour ID which can be heard here as recorded back in 1997 and Ross T if your reading, this is how a news intro should sound!
By the time I started listening a few years later in their "Hotter And Fresher" phase, they were using a remixed version which wasn't as good although they still used
the "Essex ehhfeehhhm!" vocal as an acapella quite a few times as a general ID and it still sounded great along with other jingles from that package.
I'd love to hear a recording of the original jingle with Peter reading the forecast with those slide whistle noises signifying the high and low temperatures!
Wireless At The Wells
My visit to the BBC's South East Studios in Tunbridge Wells went ahead as planned and was a great opportunity to find out how everything runs and where and what I should be doing for my next move. It was great to finally meet Peter Stewart who was a lot taller than I thought but very welcoming and he gave me a tour of the building and the offices where both Radio Kent and South East Today are based. I even got to have a look in the TV studio as well where Geoff and Beverly present each weeknight and even got an eyelid of them at work.
I also got to sit in on a prospects meeting for tomorrow's breakfast programme with Peter and two of the reporters Alex and Clare discussing what angle they should take on the stories and whether they were practical and would interest listeners. These included one on Mini Cabs and drivers being attacked with one case in Sheffield and another in nearby Gravesend. The issues they had to look at included the fact that Kent has none or very little mini cab firms and whether it was entirely relevant for the station to be reporting as a local story.
Overall I will be interested to find out the end result of that and the other prospects tomorrow morning.
I also had a chat with Peter towards the end about lots of things including where to go next in order to find placements, how he ended up working at BBC Radio Kent and he also revealed that he was one of the judges for the journalism category at last years SRAs which resulted in Smoke Radio winning the gold!
I'm really grateful for Peter for allowing me to see how the BBC operates for this part of the country and also for signing my copy of Essential Radio Skills.
I'm definitely going to take his advice and see if I can get a few of the other stations in the county to let me have a gander at their insides!
I also got to sit in on a prospects meeting for tomorrow's breakfast programme with Peter and two of the reporters Alex and Clare discussing what angle they should take on the stories and whether they were practical and would interest listeners. These included one on Mini Cabs and drivers being attacked with one case in Sheffield and another in nearby Gravesend. The issues they had to look at included the fact that Kent has none or very little mini cab firms and whether it was entirely relevant for the station to be reporting as a local story.
Overall I will be interested to find out the end result of that and the other prospects tomorrow morning.
I also had a chat with Peter towards the end about lots of things including where to go next in order to find placements, how he ended up working at BBC Radio Kent and he also revealed that he was one of the judges for the journalism category at last years SRAs which resulted in Smoke Radio winning the gold!
I'm really grateful for Peter for allowing me to see how the BBC operates for this part of the country and also for signing my copy of Essential Radio Skills.
I'm definitely going to take his advice and see if I can get a few of the other stations in the county to let me have a gander at their insides!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Silence Is Comedy Gold
With student radio being an obvious exception, most broadcasters try their very best to avoid any dead air going out over the airwaves.
Tonight however was an exception as there was a round on this week's I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue in which the teams had to "identify the dead air". One answer that was rather amusing was the silence followed by announcer Brian Perkins saying "and that was the Best Of You And Yours..."
The funniest progamme on the radio comes up with the goods once again and I'm looking forward to seeing Humph and the team in Oxford later in the year.
Unless some fucker decides to start another fire on campus because I'm certain those blazes aren't so coincidental, M Block appears the be the least affected according to Stoobie and a few others who went up the campus today to find out more about the incident. H block was destroyed whilst M-Block seems to have just had a few minor smoke damages.
My arm has had a minor burn too as a result of learning how to iron earlier this afternoon.
I'm certain that it won't be the first time I'll have to ask mum to help out.
Tonight however was an exception as there was a round on this week's I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue in which the teams had to "identify the dead air". One answer that was rather amusing was the silence followed by announcer Brian Perkins saying "and that was the Best Of You And Yours..."
The funniest progamme on the radio comes up with the goods once again and I'm looking forward to seeing Humph and the team in Oxford later in the year.
Unless some fucker decides to start another fire on campus because I'm certain those blazes aren't so coincidental, M Block appears the be the least affected according to Stoobie and a few others who went up the campus today to find out more about the incident. H block was destroyed whilst M-Block seems to have just had a few minor smoke damages.
My arm has had a minor burn too as a result of learning how to iron earlier this afternoon.
I'm certain that it won't be the first time I'll have to ask mum to help out.
Smiling Through Struggles
My third year at University could be stuffed for all I know as I'm fearing that the radio facilities maybe badly affected by the fires on campus.
But at the same time if that appears to be the case on returning then I may use it as an excuse for possibly the most insane Freshers I will ever have as it will be my last chance this time round.
For now though things aren't too bad as tomorrow afternoon I will be heading over to the BBC's studios in Tunbridge Wells to meet none other than Radio Kent's entertainment reporter and author of the best book on radio advice; Peter Stewart.
This will be a really good opportunity to find out what goes on at the county's longest established radio station and to have a chat with one of the best radio all rounders in the UK.
I had a listen earlier this afternoon where presenter Pat Marsh was doing a Mark & Lard esque feature similar to their "Cheesily Cheerful Chart Challenge" where callers had to name a song that related to a bizarre incident in their life.
One example being a caller who had to travel all the way up to Edinburgh for a job interview opting for the Spinners "Working My Way Back To You".
As an aside I had this very interesting item from BBC Radio Scotland brought to my attention and if anyones reading this, it's definitely worth taking out half an hour just to listen to this very revealing story.
This involves 39 year old Ciara MacLaverty speaking openly about dealing with M.E for the last 20 years.
I really like how she opens up to her views on the phrase "chronic fatigue syndrome" and it manages to nail how many don't understand just how badly it can affect people.
Once again it's definitely worth the listen.
But at the same time if that appears to be the case on returning then I may use it as an excuse for possibly the most insane Freshers I will ever have as it will be my last chance this time round.
For now though things aren't too bad as tomorrow afternoon I will be heading over to the BBC's studios in Tunbridge Wells to meet none other than Radio Kent's entertainment reporter and author of the best book on radio advice; Peter Stewart.
This will be a really good opportunity to find out what goes on at the county's longest established radio station and to have a chat with one of the best radio all rounders in the UK.
I had a listen earlier this afternoon where presenter Pat Marsh was doing a Mark & Lard esque feature similar to their "Cheesily Cheerful Chart Challenge" where callers had to name a song that related to a bizarre incident in their life.
One example being a caller who had to travel all the way up to Edinburgh for a job interview opting for the Spinners "Working My Way Back To You".
As an aside I had this very interesting item from BBC Radio Scotland brought to my attention and if anyones reading this, it's definitely worth taking out half an hour just to listen to this very revealing story.
This involves 39 year old Ciara MacLaverty speaking openly about dealing with M.E for the last 20 years.
I really like how she opens up to her views on the phrase "chronic fatigue syndrome" and it manages to nail how many don't understand just how badly it can affect people.
Once again it's definitely worth the listen.
No Smoke WITH Fire?
Just two days after the events on Friday night another fire broke out on the Harrow Campus, this time damaging the video edit suites and the photographic science labs near J Block where the last blaze took place.
This is where things are starting to get suspicious and I'm slightly worried about whether M-Block could end up being affected. I really hope this isn't discouraging anyone who will be joining in September and those who are still attending on any of the courses that have had their facilities damaged.
If this spreads to radio as well then we're more or less screwed, making it physically impossible to get our final advanced project completed in the first semester. Hopefully the building and equipment is insured if this does turn out to be the case.
Otherwise I guess it's a case of business as usual.
This is where things are starting to get suspicious and I'm slightly worried about whether M-Block could end up being affected. I really hope this isn't discouraging anyone who will be joining in September and those who are still attending on any of the courses that have had their facilities damaged.
If this spreads to radio as well then we're more or less screwed, making it physically impossible to get our final advanced project completed in the first semester. Hopefully the building and equipment is insured if this does turn out to be the case.
Otherwise I guess it's a case of business as usual.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Hotter Than July, In July
A blatent attempt at a Stevie Wonder reference gives a hint to what's about to come in this blog post. With slightly brighter conditions outside hopefully it's a sign of what's to come both physically and metaphorically.
I went into Canterbury this afternoon to see what was going on in the Dane John Gardens. In this case it was an African vocal group similar to Ladysmith Black Mambazo performing to a rather sparse audience possibly because of the smoking ban introduced today. Oddly enough there are fewer smokers on my radio course than there were on my college courses so I won't expect to see many changes as far as social activities go.
Speaking of blazes I've found out a bit more about the damage on the Harrow Campus and it appears that journalism, fashion and fine art have been heavilly affected resulting in a closure of J-Block until further notice. I hope Matthew's office with the photos
of Dale Winton and Scott Mills haven't been affected.
Nothing has been said about M-Block in the statement so it looks as if that part of the campus is still safe although rather empty.
I've been texting Kim in Sunny Blandford about it for most of the evening about that and the fact I'm avoiding the Diana memorial concert mainly because of the involvement of a certain Rod Stewart! The man who had the nerve to cover Tom Waits' "Waltzing Matlida" and Van Morrison's lovely "Have I Told You Lately".
I went into Canterbury this afternoon to see what was going on in the Dane John Gardens. In this case it was an African vocal group similar to Ladysmith Black Mambazo performing to a rather sparse audience possibly because of the smoking ban introduced today. Oddly enough there are fewer smokers on my radio course than there were on my college courses so I won't expect to see many changes as far as social activities go.
Speaking of blazes I've found out a bit more about the damage on the Harrow Campus and it appears that journalism, fashion and fine art have been heavilly affected resulting in a closure of J-Block until further notice. I hope Matthew's office with the photos
of Dale Winton and Scott Mills haven't been affected.
Nothing has been said about M-Block in the statement so it looks as if that part of the campus is still safe although rather empty.
I've been texting Kim in Sunny Blandford about it for most of the evening about that and the fact I'm avoiding the Diana memorial concert mainly because of the involvement of a certain Rod Stewart! The man who had the nerve to cover Tom Waits' "Waltzing Matlida" and Van Morrison's lovely "Have I Told You Lately".
"The louder you scream, the faster the ride..."
One of my Mum's friends and her family have come from Pinner to visit us today and have now gone to Tankerton to help out with mending our beach hut. I've decided not to come along as the weather's still pretty moderate and I'd probably end up sulking.
It's quite a stony beach as well so it's not exactly the most relaxing place although a walk across the prom wouldn't go amiss, as I've done many times ending up in Herne Bay.
After seeing footage of the Stone Roses gig and the cutaways to the fairground rides on the Indie documentary last night, Blackpool has become one of my dream destinations and a visit there would be another idea as to how to finish University. Then again the steam fair tends to set up in Sudbury around the May Day bank holiday so that may be a cheaper alternative but overall anywhere with bright lights and unexpected drops would suit me perfectly.
With the "success" of our events on campus last year I wouldn't expect any waltzers back on the Harrow Campus carpark for quite a long time.
It's quite a stony beach as well so it's not exactly the most relaxing place although a walk across the prom wouldn't go amiss, as I've done many times ending up in Herne Bay.
After seeing footage of the Stone Roses gig and the cutaways to the fairground rides on the Indie documentary last night, Blackpool has become one of my dream destinations and a visit there would be another idea as to how to finish University. Then again the steam fair tends to set up in Sudbury around the May Day bank holiday so that may be a cheaper alternative but overall anywhere with bright lights and unexpected drops would suit me perfectly.
With the "success" of our events on campus last year I wouldn't expect any waltzers back on the Harrow Campus carpark for quite a long time.
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