The rest of today has been really eventful with positive things happening throughout although by the end of the night they were overshadowed by a few other issues but I'll come on to them later.
Earlier on today we had a special edition of Preloaded were Dan interviewed comedian and musician Bo Burnham who had flown from Boston in the USA and had come in specially to talk about his forthcoming performance in Leicester Square and opening for Joan Rivers. He also performed some of his very amusing songs including my favourite "Rehab Center For Fictional Characters" and was a really great guy overall.
We happened to be the first out of clients who have got him for interviews including Five News and London Tonight so it's a really good achievement.
Shortly after I headed over to Inter:mission in Marylebone for the annoucement of this years Student Radio Awards where just about everyone from Smoke was present from the freshers who have just joined the station to alumni including Tudor, Goodlass and Marshall, and Ross T who was outspoken as ever and not afraid to give his opinions on the current state of the station with regards to the logo change and so on.
That aside, the annoucement of the nominations themselves went really quickly and Smoke was nominated for 5 categories, the most we've ever acheived in one year.
We managed to be nominated for Best Marketing and Branding, Dan Roberts was up for Best Newcomer, Goodlass and Marshall finally got nominated for an award with their Danny Wallace interview being one of those in the Best Interview category, The Election Coverage was nominated in the journalism category and we once again got chosen in the running for Best Station which I helped compile the audio entry for.
The antics at Inter:mission itself were rather chaotic in my case were I slipped over the floor quite a few times in true Peter Simon style and I felt that at one point I really had to take it easy.
However by closing time at 11pm a lot of us were to head down to Cheapskates in Soho were whilst going through the complicated area of London we lost each other and had to resort to sat-nav on Dan's I-Phone to find our way round.
We got in eventually although it was really crowded and waiting to get served was like waiting at the bleeding Undergraduate Office. By 1:30am myself, Chris, Phil and Stoobie decided to head back home with Sophie tagging along with us although Chris and Phil decided to stop off at the Leicester Square McDonalds before getting a cab back to Harrow.
This is where things got complicated as we ended up going right past Harrow and towards Watford. As if things couldn't get more complicated the exit to Harrow was closed off due to roadworks we had to go through Perivale which no one else appeared to have heard of apart from me as it was Ace's hometown in the original series of Doctor Who.
At one point we ended up on a dirt track which looked similar to a road with no street lamps like you'd get outside Canterbury or in Norfolk as Chris pointed out whilst we were going through.
Eventually we got to South Harrow and then Harrow itself where we got off near the VUE cinema where the fare was £72 but we managed to get it lowered to £60.
Then things started to get even more complicated as we found out that Lottie had managed to meet up with someone in Cheapskates and had gone back with them to Dulwich leaving Alice on her own in Soho although I imagine a few of the Freshers were still around as well.
Chris and Sophie were irritated about what had happened however although I'm hoping it will have calmed down by tomorrow although they sounded pretty serious about it.
I'm currently reheating last night's mince and boiling some rice to go with it as I'm absolutley starving after tonight despite the hours being really antisocial.
I doubt I'll be up in time for my dissertation lecture tomorrow morning but I need to be around the radio rooms by 11am and head off to South London and the Lyndhurst Primary school later on.
Then I'm making a return visit to Canterbury for the night as I have a psychiatrists appointment on Friday morning before heading back to Harrow immediately after.
This really is one of the busiest semesters I've had here although I hope it doesn't get to the point of being too stressfull.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Undergrad=Understaffed
Today's been rather stressfull as I've spent what seems like an eternity wating to get to the Undergrad Office trying to sort out my enrollement only to get a form where I need to get the signatures of the relevant lecturers.
Why I can't enrol online is just complete bollocks and irritating me to an extent as I will be away from London tomorrow making things more complicated.
Hopefully Matthew will be around on Friday so that I can get that part of the form completed.
Right now I'm up in the radio rooms with just about everyone singing the guitar riff from Pink's current single which is rather catchy although when they sing it, it sounds more like the theme to the Archers. I still don't understand why she still has that name as her hair barely has any shades of pink and hasn't for quite a while.
Tonight however's going to be quite eventful as it appears that Stewart is actually compering the nominations for the Student Radio Awards at Inter:Mission at Marylebone which a lot of us are attending. There will be a few old faces as well including Tudor, Goodlass and Marshall and Ross T, all of them looking forward to seeing Stoobie hopefully making a fool of himself. He's still being very tight about revealing them to us but I'm confident we'll get at least one nomination regardless of what happens.
This has had us laughing as well, The World's Most One Sided Fist Fights with the sort of things that would only be acceptable when done in plasticine. Very similar in style to MTV's Celebrity Deathmatch where stars would fight it out in a boxing ring with gory consequences.
It must take quite a bit of effort to acheive such amusing results when it comes to that sort of animating.
Why I can't enrol online is just complete bollocks and irritating me to an extent as I will be away from London tomorrow making things more complicated.
Hopefully Matthew will be around on Friday so that I can get that part of the form completed.
Right now I'm up in the radio rooms with just about everyone singing the guitar riff from Pink's current single which is rather catchy although when they sing it, it sounds more like the theme to the Archers. I still don't understand why she still has that name as her hair barely has any shades of pink and hasn't for quite a while.
Tonight however's going to be quite eventful as it appears that Stewart is actually compering the nominations for the Student Radio Awards at Inter:Mission at Marylebone which a lot of us are attending. There will be a few old faces as well including Tudor, Goodlass and Marshall and Ross T, all of them looking forward to seeing Stoobie hopefully making a fool of himself. He's still being very tight about revealing them to us but I'm confident we'll get at least one nomination regardless of what happens.
This has had us laughing as well, The World's Most One Sided Fist Fights with the sort of things that would only be acceptable when done in plasticine. Very similar in style to MTV's Celebrity Deathmatch where stars would fight it out in a boxing ring with gory consequences.
It must take quite a bit of effort to acheive such amusing results when it comes to that sort of animating.
Drunk Word Association
Last night was spent at the Junction in Harrow where it was a really good night for drinks as VKs were only £1 per bottle. Most of the second year radio people were around as well as both the Phils, Stoobie and Denis, Barry and so on.
Nothing too spectacular happened although at one point Dan decided to get us involved in his word association game that he'd been playing on his Preloaded show last week, a tiny bit like "Mallet's Mallet" but without getting hit on the head. We also heard a bit more about the organisation of the SRA Award nominations although on returning I found out that it's definitley happening tonight so it will be another visit into Central London.
Around about 12am I headed up to Trinity with Bracey, Sarah etc were they were playing a good selection of current indie tunes such as the Killers and The Kings Of Leon and also some rock and roll such as Jerry Lee Lewis and The Blues Brothers which was the best part of the night.
I didn't stay there for too long however and was back by 1am and am more or less set for a rather demanding day although I hope to get the female voice issue sorted.
That's going to be quite a task.
Nothing too spectacular happened although at one point Dan decided to get us involved in his word association game that he'd been playing on his Preloaded show last week, a tiny bit like "Mallet's Mallet" but without getting hit on the head. We also heard a bit more about the organisation of the SRA Award nominations although on returning I found out that it's definitley happening tonight so it will be another visit into Central London.
Around about 12am I headed up to Trinity with Bracey, Sarah etc were they were playing a good selection of current indie tunes such as the Killers and The Kings Of Leon and also some rock and roll such as Jerry Lee Lewis and The Blues Brothers which was the best part of the night.
I didn't stay there for too long however and was back by 1am and am more or less set for a rather demanding day although I hope to get the female voice issue sorted.
That's going to be quite a task.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
The Search For Oral Endorsement
It's been a rather steady day compared to others as the pressures of the Advanced Radio module are slowly beginning to arise. The main one being the hunt for a female station voice for our branding which I am really struggling with as it needs to be strong and able to stand out.
Very few women on campus fall in to that category and the fact that most of them have accents is a bit of a hinderance although that's the same with anyone who comes here.
I may see if any of the first year radio students would be happy to lend a hand and hopefully there should be results by the end of this week or ideally sooner.
We also had our first studio run through where presenters Sam, and Phil Landers managed to establish a good rapport with each other that I'm confident will get even better as we go along towards the pilot show next week.
We're doing another practice tomorrow morning which I'm hoping will be just as good and more experimental too.
I'm not sure what the plans for our tonight, but tomorrow night is a major concern as it's meant to be the Nominations party for the 2008 Student Radio Awards.
The only problem is that our very own Stewart who is the Regional Representative for London and the South East is rather unclear as to what is happening and the SRA themselves once again appear to be badly organised.
Hopefully it will all become clearer by tomorrow although I also need to enrol on my modules this year so my loan can be sorted out.
And ideally find a woman on campus with a really good radio voice who can do the job for G Radio's idents.
It's quite a challenge overall.
Very few women on campus fall in to that category and the fact that most of them have accents is a bit of a hinderance although that's the same with anyone who comes here.
I may see if any of the first year radio students would be happy to lend a hand and hopefully there should be results by the end of this week or ideally sooner.
We also had our first studio run through where presenters Sam, and Phil Landers managed to establish a good rapport with each other that I'm confident will get even better as we go along towards the pilot show next week.
We're doing another practice tomorrow morning which I'm hoping will be just as good and more experimental too.
I'm not sure what the plans for our tonight, but tomorrow night is a major concern as it's meant to be the Nominations party for the 2008 Student Radio Awards.
The only problem is that our very own Stewart who is the Regional Representative for London and the South East is rather unclear as to what is happening and the SRA themselves once again appear to be badly organised.
Hopefully it will all become clearer by tomorrow although I also need to enrol on my modules this year so my loan can be sorted out.
And ideally find a woman on campus with a really good radio voice who can do the job for G Radio's idents.
It's quite a challenge overall.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Trolleyed
I headed over to the Undercroft at around 8pm where most of the second years were around as well as a few of the Freshers who are doing radio. Sammy C and Fiz were DJing and they were playing some really good tunes including a few bizarre remixes of tunes such as Wham's "Club Tropicana" and a D&B remix of Eric Prydz's "Pjanoo" which was able to get the dancefloor pretty packed at times.
Chris, Denis and Stewart arrived shortly after with Stoobie getting pretty drunk and rather irritated after finding out that radio lecturer Matthew apparently had told the first years to refer to him as "the tall geeky one". I decided to give a suggestion for Stewart to get his own back on Matthew although I'll avoid posting it here.
As always it took quite a while to get home where as we were going past halls there were a few people messing about with a supermarket trolley which is quite a common site at least once a year in halls although luckily no one got hurt or at least didn't get hurt when I was around.
With no doubt I will have Jazz FM switched on whilst in bed tonight which I'm not sure will become permanent but will definitely be one of the choices to have on whenever Dotun Adebayo is presenting Up All Night on 5 Live.
It really does sound much like the station at it's prime in the late 90s/early 00s with nothing sounding majorly different although they've changed the news jingle at the top of the hour to make it sound slightly funkier.
This is in comparison to the rather authorative one from the original package that's the second to last cut on the montage I posted yesterday that could very possibly wake me up in the middle of the night or catch me off guard.
Then again there are nights where "silence is golden" when it can be really hard to sleep, especially when I've spent part of the day in bed but hopefully that won't be much of the case, especially in the next month or so.
Chris, Denis and Stewart arrived shortly after with Stoobie getting pretty drunk and rather irritated after finding out that radio lecturer Matthew apparently had told the first years to refer to him as "the tall geeky one". I decided to give a suggestion for Stewart to get his own back on Matthew although I'll avoid posting it here.
As always it took quite a while to get home where as we were going past halls there were a few people messing about with a supermarket trolley which is quite a common site at least once a year in halls although luckily no one got hurt or at least didn't get hurt when I was around.
With no doubt I will have Jazz FM switched on whilst in bed tonight which I'm not sure will become permanent but will definitely be one of the choices to have on whenever Dotun Adebayo is presenting Up All Night on 5 Live.
It really does sound much like the station at it's prime in the late 90s/early 00s with nothing sounding majorly different although they've changed the news jingle at the top of the hour to make it sound slightly funkier.
This is in comparison to the rather authorative one from the original package that's the second to last cut on the montage I posted yesterday that could very possibly wake me up in the middle of the night or catch me off guard.
Then again there are nights where "silence is golden" when it can be really hard to sleep, especially when I've spent part of the day in bed but hopefully that won't be much of the case, especially in the next month or so.
London=G (Or Jazz)
Today has been primarily spent involved in market research for our station whilst at the same time I've been helping out with plans for the branding in which we have decided to adapt the "G" brand throughout with lines such as "G For Living" "G For Music" and so on.
However we need to establish that it's a station aimed mainly at a gay audience by including making use of the word itself in the main slogan so hopefully we'll come up with something by tomorrow.
Later on this afternoon a selection of us went to Soho to visit a few of the gay clubs and bars in search of people to help fill out our surveys which was an interesting exercise although like most of these scenarios was a bit nerve wracking. We were all put into pairs where I was with Chris our editor and managed to get quite a few people at a bar in Rupert Street where we asked questions about what sort of music they wanted to hear on the station, how they spend their income and so on.
The most popular artist that came out in our surveys was Madonna and I imagine that those distributed online will have similar results.
After we had finished, myself, Chris, Denis and Phil Landers went to what is now known as "Pasta Hut" not too far from Compton Street, although there appeared to be more pizza than pasta dishes on offer. I went for an "Arrabia" or along those lines with chicken although there was quite a lot of spicy tomato sauce in there so I wouldn't say it was brilliant.
I've made it back over to Harrow and am now listening to the new Jazz FM with Sarah Ward presenting Dinner Jazz on top form. I missed the launch itself but have had Audition in the radio rooms recording it whilst in Central so I'll be able to hear it again later on but it's all sounding good and as expected with more still to come.
Then at around 8 or 9pm I'll head down to the Undercroft for a few drinks just like any other Monday night.
However we need to establish that it's a station aimed mainly at a gay audience by including making use of the word itself in the main slogan so hopefully we'll come up with something by tomorrow.
Later on this afternoon a selection of us went to Soho to visit a few of the gay clubs and bars in search of people to help fill out our surveys which was an interesting exercise although like most of these scenarios was a bit nerve wracking. We were all put into pairs where I was with Chris our editor and managed to get quite a few people at a bar in Rupert Street where we asked questions about what sort of music they wanted to hear on the station, how they spend their income and so on.
The most popular artist that came out in our surveys was Madonna and I imagine that those distributed online will have similar results.
After we had finished, myself, Chris, Denis and Phil Landers went to what is now known as "Pasta Hut" not too far from Compton Street, although there appeared to be more pizza than pasta dishes on offer. I went for an "Arrabia" or along those lines with chicken although there was quite a lot of spicy tomato sauce in there so I wouldn't say it was brilliant.
I've made it back over to Harrow and am now listening to the new Jazz FM with Sarah Ward presenting Dinner Jazz on top form. I missed the launch itself but have had Audition in the radio rooms recording it whilst in Central so I'll be able to hear it again later on but it's all sounding good and as expected with more still to come.
Then at around 8 or 9pm I'll head down to the Undercroft for a few drinks just like any other Monday night.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
In Need Of A Lava Lamp
I'm more or less looking forward to tomorrow's Advanced Radio lectures where we'll be making a start practically on our station and hopefully making a final decision on the survey to send out to potential listeners. I'm also hoping we'll be able to have a go at a few other things as well such as getting used to the team I'll be working with in the studio although I'm sure it won't be too much of a problem.
However it's the arrival, or should I say return of a station to the airwaves that I'm looking forward to tomorrow night when at 7pm Jazz FM makes a long awaited comeback.
To be fair it was just over three years ago since Jazz FM made it's bow as a station but the overall sound and individuality has been missing since GMG came in back in early 2003 and started to add tracks by George Michael and Elvis Costello to the playlist.
They also removed the chameleon branding and stunning jingles by David Arnold, in favour of a rather inferior set of sung jingles by Bespoke which don't sound too disimilar to those now used on Smooth Radio which occupies the 102.2 frequency in London.
One of which is used on Andy Peebles' "Soul Train" show on the station.
The good news however is that the former along with a few smoother sounding jingles based on the same theme will be back on the station and I'm looking forward to hearing how it will all gel together with the specialist shows starting later on in the week from the likes of Steve Quirk, Mike Chadwick, Peter Young and Robbie Vincent making a return to the airwaves.
With things getting more and more hectic this semester, it looks like the station has come at the right time and will be ideal for when I need to wind down as well as introducing me to a few musical gems.
Here's hoping it will last.
However it's the arrival, or should I say return of a station to the airwaves that I'm looking forward to tomorrow night when at 7pm Jazz FM makes a long awaited comeback.
To be fair it was just over three years ago since Jazz FM made it's bow as a station but the overall sound and individuality has been missing since GMG came in back in early 2003 and started to add tracks by George Michael and Elvis Costello to the playlist.
They also removed the chameleon branding and stunning jingles by David Arnold, in favour of a rather inferior set of sung jingles by Bespoke which don't sound too disimilar to those now used on Smooth Radio which occupies the 102.2 frequency in London.
One of which is used on Andy Peebles' "Soul Train" show on the station.
The good news however is that the former along with a few smoother sounding jingles based on the same theme will be back on the station and I'm looking forward to hearing how it will all gel together with the specialist shows starting later on in the week from the likes of Steve Quirk, Mike Chadwick, Peter Young and Robbie Vincent making a return to the airwaves.
With things getting more and more hectic this semester, it looks like the station has come at the right time and will be ideal for when I need to wind down as well as introducing me to a few musical gems.
Here's hoping it will last.
The G Factor
I've been having a listen to Gaydar or more specifically their on-air station sound and I'd say that there's nothing too special on there to distinguish it from other stations.
The bed they use for news is one that used to be used on Smoke a couple of years ago and if I hear Mark Ronson's Coldplay cover being used as a bed again I'll be really irritated.
Seriously though, for our station in the Advanced Radio module one of the priorities will be to make use of a female voice for G-Radio's branding although that doesn't mean a male one is totally out of the question. I'm just not sure of what sort of things we'd use as straplines but I am certain that the production and music beds certainly won't be dance orientated which is what Gaydar seems heavilly reliant on.
At the same time however I don't want it to be too bland which is what I thought most of last year's Advanced Project was in places, and keep things uptempo.
As I also have a role as a desk-op it will be particularly useful as I'll be making tools to work with practically.
A lot of work's going to be taking place over the next few days definitely although it will be built upon as things progress with suggestions from various members of the team.
The bed they use for news is one that used to be used on Smoke a couple of years ago and if I hear Mark Ronson's Coldplay cover being used as a bed again I'll be really irritated.
Seriously though, for our station in the Advanced Radio module one of the priorities will be to make use of a female voice for G-Radio's branding although that doesn't mean a male one is totally out of the question. I'm just not sure of what sort of things we'd use as straplines but I am certain that the production and music beds certainly won't be dance orientated which is what Gaydar seems heavilly reliant on.
At the same time however I don't want it to be too bland which is what I thought most of last year's Advanced Project was in places, and keep things uptempo.
As I also have a role as a desk-op it will be particularly useful as I'll be making tools to work with practically.
A lot of work's going to be taking place over the next few days definitely although it will be built upon as things progress with suggestions from various members of the team.
Celebrity Trash
An alrightish sort of night yesterday where after the X-Factor I continued my trawl through Earth Wind and Fire's back catalogue with their 1974 album "Open Our Eyes".
A not too bad album overall with stand out tunes including the title track, Devotion, and Caribou.
I followed this by watching a couple of comedy panel games on catch-up that I haven't seen on televsion this week. These included the latest episode of 8 Out Of 10 Cats which provided a few laughs, and ITV2' s "Celebrity Juice" with Keith Lemon, AKA Leigh Francis, AKA "that idiot off of 'Bo Selecta'". Although I think 'idiot' is too polite a word.
Most of the jokes were pretty juvenile to the point of unfunny as you would expect from Francis, but the programme's saving grace were it's team captains Fearne Cotton and Holly Willoughby, and their guests including Dermot O'Leary.
One of Dermot's comments taking the mickey out of contestants with sob stories on The X Factor didn't go down well with some, resulting in one of the show's contestants complaining to a newspaper about what he had said, along the lines of "I don't care if you have a dead relative" etc.
However Dermot being the down to earth guy at heart did send an apology to the contestant after the show was transmitted.
Dermot's on again tonight where they reveal who's going to be taking part in the live studio shows although the whole process is strung out quite a bit in one show as proven in previous series. I may follow that with the X-Tra Factor on ITV Catch Up which as far as I'm concerned wouldn't really be the same without Holly presenting.
Definitely the best thing she's ever presented and both her and the style of show should transfer to the main X-Factor programme on ITV1 just to make it more fresh and irreverent.
Then again it appears 7 million viewers can't be wrong although if they actually watched the X-Tra Factor, they would find it to be a lot more than just a supplementary show.
A not too bad album overall with stand out tunes including the title track, Devotion, and Caribou.
I followed this by watching a couple of comedy panel games on catch-up that I haven't seen on televsion this week. These included the latest episode of 8 Out Of 10 Cats which provided a few laughs, and ITV2' s "Celebrity Juice" with Keith Lemon, AKA Leigh Francis, AKA "that idiot off of 'Bo Selecta'". Although I think 'idiot' is too polite a word.
Most of the jokes were pretty juvenile to the point of unfunny as you would expect from Francis, but the programme's saving grace were it's team captains Fearne Cotton and Holly Willoughby, and their guests including Dermot O'Leary.
One of Dermot's comments taking the mickey out of contestants with sob stories on The X Factor didn't go down well with some, resulting in one of the show's contestants complaining to a newspaper about what he had said, along the lines of "I don't care if you have a dead relative" etc.
However Dermot being the down to earth guy at heart did send an apology to the contestant after the show was transmitted.
Dermot's on again tonight where they reveal who's going to be taking part in the live studio shows although the whole process is strung out quite a bit in one show as proven in previous series. I may follow that with the X-Tra Factor on ITV Catch Up which as far as I'm concerned wouldn't really be the same without Holly presenting.
Definitely the best thing she's ever presented and both her and the style of show should transfer to the main X-Factor programme on ITV1 just to make it more fresh and irreverent.
Then again it appears 7 million viewers can't be wrong although if they actually watched the X-Tra Factor, they would find it to be a lot more than just a supplementary show.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Physically Entertaining
Despite having a sleep for most of this afternoon I'm still very tired and can barely be bothered to move at all. This semester's not going to be good if it continues this way but it's better than being in Canterbury any time and I have things to be occupied with.
The plan for tonight is the same as any other Saturday with Strictly Come Dancing and The X-Factor providing the entertainment. With regards to the former it probably won't be as good this week as it's all the male celebrities taking to the floor but as they tend to get criticised more than the female contestants, there's bound to be one couple who will get a tounge lashing from the judges followed by Bruce Forsyth saying to them "you're my favourites!".
Prior to that there's the latest edition of a programme that you could say has brought stupidity back to television; "Hole In The Wall" where teams of celebrities have to fit through novelty shaped holes in polystyrene walls and avoid being knocked over into a swimming pool.
Whilst it's got mixed reactions it does have the saving grace of Dale Winton as host who I'd say is in the same league of broadcasters as Noel Edmonds, Phillip Schofield and Terry Wogan.
It's only the beginning though as next year sees the start of a programme that's become very popular in the US with similar physical challenges which in this country will be called "Total Wipeout" and according to this week's Radio Times will have Richard Hammond as the presenter. He could probably be added to that list as well actually, having started off as a radio presenter.
And of course there's the Krypton Factor making a return to ITV1 next year although how they'll make it appealing without being tacky or desperately trendy is yet to be seen.
Unlike radio, television definitely appears to have a promising future and I'm sure some of the risks in bringing the shows to our screens will pay off.
The plan for tonight is the same as any other Saturday with Strictly Come Dancing and The X-Factor providing the entertainment. With regards to the former it probably won't be as good this week as it's all the male celebrities taking to the floor but as they tend to get criticised more than the female contestants, there's bound to be one couple who will get a tounge lashing from the judges followed by Bruce Forsyth saying to them "you're my favourites!".
Prior to that there's the latest edition of a programme that you could say has brought stupidity back to television; "Hole In The Wall" where teams of celebrities have to fit through novelty shaped holes in polystyrene walls and avoid being knocked over into a swimming pool.
Whilst it's got mixed reactions it does have the saving grace of Dale Winton as host who I'd say is in the same league of broadcasters as Noel Edmonds, Phillip Schofield and Terry Wogan.
It's only the beginning though as next year sees the start of a programme that's become very popular in the US with similar physical challenges which in this country will be called "Total Wipeout" and according to this week's Radio Times will have Richard Hammond as the presenter. He could probably be added to that list as well actually, having started off as a radio presenter.
And of course there's the Krypton Factor making a return to ITV1 next year although how they'll make it appealing without being tacky or desperately trendy is yet to be seen.
Unlike radio, television definitely appears to have a promising future and I'm sure some of the risks in bringing the shows to our screens will pay off.
"Take Me Out Tonight"
I've managed to find a flyer of some sort outside my room inviting me to a party from a fella named Barry.
I very much doubt it's Barry O'Sullivan who lives with Chris, Denis and so on but him and the Irish lads did take a long time to catch up with us after leaving Area and arriving at Lottie's which may explain a few things.
As we were going back from Area last night Lottie was going on about the Freshers this year being "rubbish" with the exception of those from radio who turned up at her house prior to Area yesterday.
Which is of course a bit of an unfair assumption although this year has been a bit more difficult in terms of settling in thanks to the fucking up of the Uni calendar as I really can't find a better word to describe it, and the slightly niche events that have been taking place on campus.
In all fairness this weeks events at Area have been good fun but for me personally, parts of it seemed like a knees-up for the second years where there are quite a lot of close circles.
Then again we've got a whole year so I'm sure there will be a wide range of events to come within the year allowing everyone to let their hair down.
In terms of music, I've noticed a lot of people in my flat and in their first year are into
bands such as The Smiths which isn't too bad, especially as I prefer their stuff to Morrissey's solo material.
It's probably a good excuse to re-post a video from Jonathan Ross's Last Resort of a spoof advertisement for an album of their songs sung by Bernard Manning.
They really should have shown that video as opposed to Harry Hill on Stars In Their Eyes when Morrissey was interviewed by Jonathan Ross a few years ago.
I very much doubt it's Barry O'Sullivan who lives with Chris, Denis and so on but him and the Irish lads did take a long time to catch up with us after leaving Area and arriving at Lottie's which may explain a few things.
As we were going back from Area last night Lottie was going on about the Freshers this year being "rubbish" with the exception of those from radio who turned up at her house prior to Area yesterday.
Which is of course a bit of an unfair assumption although this year has been a bit more difficult in terms of settling in thanks to the fucking up of the Uni calendar as I really can't find a better word to describe it, and the slightly niche events that have been taking place on campus.
In all fairness this weeks events at Area have been good fun but for me personally, parts of it seemed like a knees-up for the second years where there are quite a lot of close circles.
Then again we've got a whole year so I'm sure there will be a wide range of events to come within the year allowing everyone to let their hair down.
In terms of music, I've noticed a lot of people in my flat and in their first year are into
bands such as The Smiths which isn't too bad, especially as I prefer their stuff to Morrissey's solo material.
It's probably a good excuse to re-post a video from Jonathan Ross's Last Resort of a spoof advertisement for an album of their songs sung by Bernard Manning.
They really should have shown that video as opposed to Harry Hill on Stars In Their Eyes when Morrissey was interviewed by Jonathan Ross a few years ago.
"We Need Some More Girls In Here!"
The School Disco at Area last night was quite a way to end this almost Freshers Week even if it did get really cramped and to a point where I was absolutley boiling.
The night started as planned at the Kenton Spoons with Chris, Phil and Barry where I had a few drinks and then I headed up to Lottie's house where quite a few people were meeting up beforehand including a lot of the Freshers. A lot of those present were getting each other to write things on their white shirts with the back of Dean's having the new Smoke Radio logo nicely drawn although as the night went on it got more and more smudged.
Will's shirt had "I Love Goodlass and Marshall" written on it which was a bit of a joke after a dodgy confrontation between Will and one half of the infamous duo at the Smoke Radio awards earlier this year.
I'd stopped off at Sainsburys before arriving to buy a few raspberry Breezers to get me more or less in the mood for the night and they were starting to have an effect on me in the front room as the TV had Club Classics on Heart playing in the background, which was the closest thing to cheese we would be hearing that night.
We left just before 10pm and by the time we got to Area there were a few familiar faces waiting to get in including Chris, Phil, Denis and Barry with their Irish mates and Bracey along with her partner Meg who was wearing a rather delightful blonde wig.
Phil Landers was also around dressed up in the right apparell and was wearing a pair of glasses not too dissimillar to the ones that Mark Ronson was given for comedy purposes on this week's Never Mind The Buzzcocks.
The music that was being played started off with a set from a guy called "Detox" playing some weird "funky house" with J-Swift MCing throughout the night constantly asking for more girls to come up to the front of the stage. After that was Joachim who played a few rap anthems such as Jay-Z's "99 Problems" and P-Diddy's "Bad Boy For Life" as well as a few electro remixes of tunes such as "Children" by Robert Miles and "Out Of Space" by the Prodigy in what was probably the best set of the night. Synamatix came on afterwards who had one or two good tunes in his set such as "Lapdance" by N.E.R.D and "LK" by DJ Marky and MC Stamina although most of the other tunes were rather obscure but by then everyone had had a lot to drink.
Most of the radio lot were stood at the back of the Area during the night although some of us came to the front on occasions where at one point everyone started pushing each other as they would although nothing fatal happened as a result.
At the end of the night quite a lot of us went back to Lottie's house for a short while and I didn't get into bed until 3am in the morning. In spite of this I still woke up at around 8am although I'm still rather tired as it is.
Overall it was a good night despite but without any drinks I probably wouldn't have enjoyed it as much.
The night started as planned at the Kenton Spoons with Chris, Phil and Barry where I had a few drinks and then I headed up to Lottie's house where quite a few people were meeting up beforehand including a lot of the Freshers. A lot of those present were getting each other to write things on their white shirts with the back of Dean's having the new Smoke Radio logo nicely drawn although as the night went on it got more and more smudged.
Will's shirt had "I Love Goodlass and Marshall" written on it which was a bit of a joke after a dodgy confrontation between Will and one half of the infamous duo at the Smoke Radio awards earlier this year.
I'd stopped off at Sainsburys before arriving to buy a few raspberry Breezers to get me more or less in the mood for the night and they were starting to have an effect on me in the front room as the TV had Club Classics on Heart playing in the background, which was the closest thing to cheese we would be hearing that night.
We left just before 10pm and by the time we got to Area there were a few familiar faces waiting to get in including Chris, Phil, Denis and Barry with their Irish mates and Bracey along with her partner Meg who was wearing a rather delightful blonde wig.
Phil Landers was also around dressed up in the right apparell and was wearing a pair of glasses not too dissimillar to the ones that Mark Ronson was given for comedy purposes on this week's Never Mind The Buzzcocks.
The music that was being played started off with a set from a guy called "Detox" playing some weird "funky house" with J-Swift MCing throughout the night constantly asking for more girls to come up to the front of the stage. After that was Joachim who played a few rap anthems such as Jay-Z's "99 Problems" and P-Diddy's "Bad Boy For Life" as well as a few electro remixes of tunes such as "Children" by Robert Miles and "Out Of Space" by the Prodigy in what was probably the best set of the night. Synamatix came on afterwards who had one or two good tunes in his set such as "Lapdance" by N.E.R.D and "LK" by DJ Marky and MC Stamina although most of the other tunes were rather obscure but by then everyone had had a lot to drink.
Most of the radio lot were stood at the back of the Area during the night although some of us came to the front on occasions where at one point everyone started pushing each other as they would although nothing fatal happened as a result.
At the end of the night quite a lot of us went back to Lottie's house for a short while and I didn't get into bed until 3am in the morning. In spite of this I still woke up at around 8am although I'm still rather tired as it is.
Overall it was a good night despite but without any drinks I probably wouldn't have enjoyed it as much.
Friday, October 03, 2008
Freshers Fluids (Rockstar That Is)
The Freshers Fayre in Harrow has been in full flow throughout the day with just about every society and sports team present and quite a few people signing up for Smoke Radio. Whether they'll all turn up to the meeting for newcomers next week is another thing but hopefully it won't be too much work for team to deal with.
Plenty of cans of Rockstar energy drink were drunk throughout the day with a few being brought up to the radio rooms as well resulting in one being spilt near a computer that was a bit dodgy and didn't go down well with Tim, one of our technicians.
The cans themselves were free and quite big but I thought they were a tiny bit sweet as all energy drinks are.
The plan for tonight before area was to head back to my flat to relax with a chicken stew and pasta but I've now been asked by Chilvers to meet up with him and a few others for a few drinks in Spoons beforehand to get us warmed up.
Hopefully tonight won't be too niche as far as music goes as it's an unwritten rule of school disco to play some cheese, even though I don't really like that word used in that context myself due to it being overused quite a bit.
Hopefully the Freshers will fight back as the year goes on as proven in the past.
Plenty of cans of Rockstar energy drink were drunk throughout the day with a few being brought up to the radio rooms as well resulting in one being spilt near a computer that was a bit dodgy and didn't go down well with Tim, one of our technicians.
The cans themselves were free and quite big but I thought they were a tiny bit sweet as all energy drinks are.
The plan for tonight before area was to head back to my flat to relax with a chicken stew and pasta but I've now been asked by Chilvers to meet up with him and a few others for a few drinks in Spoons beforehand to get us warmed up.
Hopefully tonight won't be too niche as far as music goes as it's an unwritten rule of school disco to play some cheese, even though I don't really like that word used in that context myself due to it being overused quite a bit.
Hopefully the Freshers will fight back as the year goes on as proven in the past.
"If I Should Die Before I Wake..."
The goings on of last night definitley made up for what was a rather stressfull day earlier on, starting off with the new series of Buzzcocks which I'd been looking forward to.
Highlights included Ralf Little's rant about Kid Rock's recent chart topper and
Simon Amstell saying that he was missing team captain Bill Bailey, resulting in him and Phill Jupitus miming to Jordin Spark's and Chris Brown's "No Air" which was rather amusing.
I hope fellow radio student Stevie McIntosh was watching as he has a bit of a dislike for Jordin Sparks and would have probably found that hilarious.
Mark Ronson was rather rubbish as a team captain however and I wasn't sure about Simon Amstell's haircut but it's good to have the show back on our screens.
Immediately after I headed to Area 51 for the Battle of The Bands where there was quite a moderate turn-out consisting mainly of second years.
Most of the bands performing were good however including Joachim blending in rap with electro beats, Kid Champion with their own catchy number "Forgotten What It Feels Like" and best of all I Am One where J-Swift and Oli were joined by a backing band and two female vocalists whilst still managing to sound laid back and retaining their individualilty.
Being stood right at the front was quite something having never actually seen J-Swift perform live and I'm hoping that's not the last time I see them.
The final band wasn't as good with the chorus of one of their songs sounding very similar to that of Peter, Bjorn and John's "Young Folks". Without the whistling of course.
Overall it wasn't really a battle as such as opposed to a showcase of Westminster's talent with J-Swift performing on one of Joachim's songs showing that there wasn't really any rivalry between each other.
Or maybe it was because all of the bands were a warm up for the headline act "Duke" that had come over specially, who were a trio consisting of a vocalist, a human beatbox and a guitar player who performed a medley of tunes in their own distinctive style such as "Wearing My Rolex", "American Boy" and "Heartbreaker". As the performance went on they also performed a few dance classics such as Gala's "Free From Desire", ATB's "Till I Come" and even Fatboy Slim's "Rockafella Skank".
The set list really was pretty extensive and everyone who was there really did enjoy the performance.
As for today it's the Fresher's Fayre on the Harrow campus and later on it's the school disco at Area. I doubt I'll be wearing the right clothes but overall it should be a good laugh.
Highlights included Ralf Little's rant about Kid Rock's recent chart topper and
Simon Amstell saying that he was missing team captain Bill Bailey, resulting in him and Phill Jupitus miming to Jordin Spark's and Chris Brown's "No Air" which was rather amusing.
I hope fellow radio student Stevie McIntosh was watching as he has a bit of a dislike for Jordin Sparks and would have probably found that hilarious.
Mark Ronson was rather rubbish as a team captain however and I wasn't sure about Simon Amstell's haircut but it's good to have the show back on our screens.
Immediately after I headed to Area 51 for the Battle of The Bands where there was quite a moderate turn-out consisting mainly of second years.
Most of the bands performing were good however including Joachim blending in rap with electro beats, Kid Champion with their own catchy number "Forgotten What It Feels Like" and best of all I Am One where J-Swift and Oli were joined by a backing band and two female vocalists whilst still managing to sound laid back and retaining their individualilty.
Being stood right at the front was quite something having never actually seen J-Swift perform live and I'm hoping that's not the last time I see them.
The final band wasn't as good with the chorus of one of their songs sounding very similar to that of Peter, Bjorn and John's "Young Folks". Without the whistling of course.
Overall it wasn't really a battle as such as opposed to a showcase of Westminster's talent with J-Swift performing on one of Joachim's songs showing that there wasn't really any rivalry between each other.
Or maybe it was because all of the bands were a warm up for the headline act "Duke" that had come over specially, who were a trio consisting of a vocalist, a human beatbox and a guitar player who performed a medley of tunes in their own distinctive style such as "Wearing My Rolex", "American Boy" and "Heartbreaker". As the performance went on they also performed a few dance classics such as Gala's "Free From Desire", ATB's "Till I Come" and even Fatboy Slim's "Rockafella Skank".
The set list really was pretty extensive and everyone who was there really did enjoy the performance.
As for today it's the Fresher's Fayre on the Harrow campus and later on it's the school disco at Area. I doubt I'll be wearing the right clothes but overall it should be a good laugh.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Campus Cannavasses (If That's How You Spell It)
The staircase of the flat and possibly every other in halls is littered with flyers for tonight's Battle Of The Bands taking place at Area 51. I'll be heading up their to see the talented acts play later tonight but not before the first in the new series of Never Mind The Buzzcocks where Mark Ronson is the first in a set of guest captains filling the space of Bill Bailey, which should make interesting viewing.
My visit to the Lyndhurst Primary School this afternoon turned out to be worthwhile with the pupils really getting into making some rather novelty sounding idents which they were rather proud of. The plan for next week is to review what we've done so far and probably start creating stings and production for the show features that Grove FM has which should really start to show creativity.
I'm hoping tonight will be enjoyable but I'm still not sure about the idea of
Smoke Radio trying to be more "street" and "cool" this year.
Then again, fitting into things has always been a problem with me but hopefully all isn't at loss.
My visit to the Lyndhurst Primary School this afternoon turned out to be worthwhile with the pupils really getting into making some rather novelty sounding idents which they were rather proud of. The plan for next week is to review what we've done so far and probably start creating stings and production for the show features that Grove FM has which should really start to show creativity.
I'm hoping tonight will be enjoyable but I'm still not sure about the idea of
Smoke Radio trying to be more "street" and "cool" this year.
Then again, fitting into things has always been a problem with me but hopefully all isn't at loss.
Wider Marketing
I had a rather rough night yesterday not really getting to sleep until around 2am and was almost awake towards 7:45 where I had set my alarm to go off. I then set it to 8:15 being the rather lazy type that I am but I was up before then and was more or less ready to head into Uni for our production meeting of our Advanced Radio module.
We were basically looking at marketing ideas and what sort of questions we should put into our online survey to define the audience of our station "G-Radio" that we will be working on over the next few weeks. Basically it's a case of finding out what sort of music they want to have played, their cultural backgrounds and where they like to go in London.
On an individual level I need to come up with a few ideas for how the general station sound should be so I'll have a listen to Gaydar over the next few days to give me a few guiding points on what to avoid or not sound too similar too.
The dissertation lecture wasn't too bad as it only lasted an hour and gave an overview on how the lectures will work and the many different areas of the media that can be covered. My only problem is that I have a few ideas on what I want to do mine on but there's hardly any literature I know of written about it or at least enough to write a literature review.
The deadline's earlier than last year as well with the date being the 23rd of April but at least that means the final semester will be totally free and allow me to work out what happens when things finally come to an end in June.
I managed to get a few things of one or two other people in my lectures including a DVD of the American version of the Office from Sirin after talking about it earlier this week, and a signed flyer from Smooth Radio by Mike Allen from Phil H who helps out on his show at weekends.
I would have uploaded a send up of Mike when he was at LBC by the Bastard Brothers who used to produce mickey takes of radio in the late 80s but the CD I have with it
is back in Canterbury.
Nowadays though radio doesn't even have enough personality for it to be sent up in such a way, or in other words it could be one big joke overall.
We were basically looking at marketing ideas and what sort of questions we should put into our online survey to define the audience of our station "G-Radio" that we will be working on over the next few weeks. Basically it's a case of finding out what sort of music they want to have played, their cultural backgrounds and where they like to go in London.
On an individual level I need to come up with a few ideas for how the general station sound should be so I'll have a listen to Gaydar over the next few days to give me a few guiding points on what to avoid or not sound too similar too.
The dissertation lecture wasn't too bad as it only lasted an hour and gave an overview on how the lectures will work and the many different areas of the media that can be covered. My only problem is that I have a few ideas on what I want to do mine on but there's hardly any literature I know of written about it or at least enough to write a literature review.
The deadline's earlier than last year as well with the date being the 23rd of April but at least that means the final semester will be totally free and allow me to work out what happens when things finally come to an end in June.
I managed to get a few things of one or two other people in my lectures including a DVD of the American version of the Office from Sirin after talking about it earlier this week, and a signed flyer from Smooth Radio by Mike Allen from Phil H who helps out on his show at weekends.
I would have uploaded a send up of Mike when he was at LBC by the Bastard Brothers who used to produce mickey takes of radio in the late 80s but the CD I have with it
is back in Canterbury.
Nowadays though radio doesn't even have enough personality for it to be sent up in such a way, or in other words it could be one big joke overall.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
"Sole Expression"
It's been a rather long day despite not being as hectic as the last couple of days where everything it seems has been building up to my first show of the year.
Most of the team were at Marylebone today for the Freshers Fayre where from what I heard it went pretty well although it got rather hectic with Fiz trying to flirt with people who signed up and Alice being involved in similar situations.
Fiz is actually the station imaging voice for the station although I've also been asked to provide a few liners for "Impey and The Brain" which I think a rather embarrassing but everyone else seems to find them enjoyable. If I remember correctly Fiz reffered to me as the "Movie Man" comparing my voice to that like you would get on a film trailer although I misheard him and thought he was saying "Moody Man".
Ex radio student Pete had also been at the Marylebone Freshers Fayre's and came over to Harrow to see us and lend a hand with Chris for his show this afternoon where they were giving away more prizes from Wetherspoons and Odeon thanks to Pete having a job there.
I made a few visits to the Undercroft throughout the day where Mattie and the "Heard It Here First" boys were holding a few acoustic sessions followed by a DJ set involving Mattie playing a rather top notch set of tunes from the likes of The Smiths, The Stone Roses and as the night progressed electro remixes of Metallica and Soundgarden.
At one point he was playing "Ghost Town" by the Specials which immediatley brought to mind the "Spinmaster" from Father Ted as it was the only record he had in the episode where they tried to rig the raffle.
The soul show itself went well where I enjoyed playing tunes from the likes of the Sunburst Band, Level 42 and The Latin Project although I would have liked a lot more listener participation.
However, I'm hoping to get a regular slot on the station again in the not too distant future and I'm sure I heard Alice our head of specialist, mentioning that it would fit in well with "Just The Bassics" that was on before me who started their show off with The Kyoto Jazz Massive, another favourite on my show.
The plan afterwards was to head to Kenton Spoons where Lottie, Alice etc would be heading to meet up with Chris and Phil H but they're a bit caught up in other stuff and I'm feeling rather exhausted.
Not to mention the fact that I'm dreading the thought of having to be up by 9am for a production meeting followed by our first dissertation lecture and then having to go to South London to the primary school I'm helping out at.
I've barely even had time to prepare anything so it could all go terribly wrong, especially as the teacher who has organised the project is away tomorrow.
This really is a far cry from the rather quiet semester I had last year.
Most of the team were at Marylebone today for the Freshers Fayre where from what I heard it went pretty well although it got rather hectic with Fiz trying to flirt with people who signed up and Alice being involved in similar situations.
Fiz is actually the station imaging voice for the station although I've also been asked to provide a few liners for "Impey and The Brain" which I think a rather embarrassing but everyone else seems to find them enjoyable. If I remember correctly Fiz reffered to me as the "Movie Man" comparing my voice to that like you would get on a film trailer although I misheard him and thought he was saying "Moody Man".
Ex radio student Pete had also been at the Marylebone Freshers Fayre's and came over to Harrow to see us and lend a hand with Chris for his show this afternoon where they were giving away more prizes from Wetherspoons and Odeon thanks to Pete having a job there.
I made a few visits to the Undercroft throughout the day where Mattie and the "Heard It Here First" boys were holding a few acoustic sessions followed by a DJ set involving Mattie playing a rather top notch set of tunes from the likes of The Smiths, The Stone Roses and as the night progressed electro remixes of Metallica and Soundgarden.
At one point he was playing "Ghost Town" by the Specials which immediatley brought to mind the "Spinmaster" from Father Ted as it was the only record he had in the episode where they tried to rig the raffle.
The soul show itself went well where I enjoyed playing tunes from the likes of the Sunburst Band, Level 42 and The Latin Project although I would have liked a lot more listener participation.
However, I'm hoping to get a regular slot on the station again in the not too distant future and I'm sure I heard Alice our head of specialist, mentioning that it would fit in well with "Just The Bassics" that was on before me who started their show off with The Kyoto Jazz Massive, another favourite on my show.
The plan afterwards was to head to Kenton Spoons where Lottie, Alice etc would be heading to meet up with Chris and Phil H but they're a bit caught up in other stuff and I'm feeling rather exhausted.
Not to mention the fact that I'm dreading the thought of having to be up by 9am for a production meeting followed by our first dissertation lecture and then having to go to South London to the primary school I'm helping out at.
I've barely even had time to prepare anything so it could all go terribly wrong, especially as the teacher who has organised the project is away tomorrow.
This really is a far cry from the rather quiet semester I had last year.
"When I Say Pub...."
The pub quiz at the Undercroft had a rather moderate turn out although there were quite a few first years about and enough for it to played fairly. Chris and Phil H were hosting whilst I was on a team with Stewart, Denis, Jay and Barry who it turns out did have Chris's mobile after the previous night's antics and had returned it to him.
Our team name was "How Many Irishmen Does It Take To Win A Pub Quiz" although we didn't win the prize for best team name, the prize itself being a fire exit sign stolen from the library.
One of the other team names was the rather distasteful "Chlymidia Crew" which included the current head of events at Smoke Radio but luckily they didn't win either although they were pretty close.
The rounds consisted of a musical intros round which we got all 10 questions, a sports round, a film and TV round and a general knowledge round as well as a picture round which people had to identify infamous figures around university where one of them happened to be your's truly.
Our team ended up winning once again splitting the jackpot of £23 that was on offer.
I went back at around 11pm to complete the CRB forms that I need to hand in at the primary school I'm helping out at whilst continuing my trawl through EWF's albums with "Head To The Sky". This was where the band started to show their jazzy latin side with tunes such as "Evil" and "Zanzibar". I'm rather surprised I haven't looked deeper into their individual albums until now but they've done so much great material which deserves more credit than they tend to get.
On a similar note it's my first soul show of the year tonight where I plan to play quite a lot of stuff from the best album of the summer "Moving With The Shakers" by The Sunburst Band who I was lucky enough to see live back in July.
I'm determined to really make this final year count even if I'm really tied up especially in the first semester but as I've mentioned before it's one of the "sole" reasons I enjoy being at University.
Our team name was "How Many Irishmen Does It Take To Win A Pub Quiz" although we didn't win the prize for best team name, the prize itself being a fire exit sign stolen from the library.
One of the other team names was the rather distasteful "Chlymidia Crew" which included the current head of events at Smoke Radio but luckily they didn't win either although they were pretty close.
The rounds consisted of a musical intros round which we got all 10 questions, a sports round, a film and TV round and a general knowledge round as well as a picture round which people had to identify infamous figures around university where one of them happened to be your's truly.
Our team ended up winning once again splitting the jackpot of £23 that was on offer.
I went back at around 11pm to complete the CRB forms that I need to hand in at the primary school I'm helping out at whilst continuing my trawl through EWF's albums with "Head To The Sky". This was where the band started to show their jazzy latin side with tunes such as "Evil" and "Zanzibar". I'm rather surprised I haven't looked deeper into their individual albums until now but they've done so much great material which deserves more credit than they tend to get.
On a similar note it's my first soul show of the year tonight where I plan to play quite a lot of stuff from the best album of the summer "Moving With The Shakers" by The Sunburst Band who I was lucky enough to see live back in July.
I'm determined to really make this final year count even if I'm really tied up especially in the first semester but as I've mentioned before it's one of the "sole" reasons I enjoy being at University.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Assigning Roles
We managed to sort out the roles for the studio based project taking place in the next few weeks and I've managed to get the branding role as well as being the studio desk operator which isn't bad at all.
Sam and Phil Landers have been lined up to present, Steven is in charge of news with Denis reading the sport who's also one of the music producers.
Stoobie is in charge of the website although Eric will be helping him out using his expert knowledge on Photoshop. Eric's also giving a hand with production stuff although I'm hoping that I get to do a few more additional jobs as well as branding, as the desk op job only really takes place on the days we're on air. Then again I reckon we'll be doing quite a lot of run-through's during the module.
A lot of people want to have a hand in producing adverts although lecturer Dave Sharp did explain that it was a tough task to undertake as it involves trying to find genuine clients and negotiate deals with them to hopefully pay us to produce an ad for them.
Although I'm happy with how it all went I felt really poorly throughout which may have been to do with me making a slightly rushed stew after getting in last night.
I'm feeling a bit better now and am hoping it will remain that way for a few days at least.
We've been asked to meet up early on Thursday before the dissertation lecture to discuss marketing plans and finally decide on a station name, with "Spiral" and "G-Radio" being potential examples. I'm not sure how long the dissertation lecture lasts as I have to get over to Denmark Hill at 1pm and it may mean in having to leave early.
That's pretty risky considering how vital the module is, although I am being offered additional support which should come in useful.
As for tonight it's the Pub Quiz at the Undercroft with Chris and Phil Harris hosting which should guarantee enjoyment. A few others maybe heading up to Trinity afterwards which will definitely be good fun as they normally tend to play some stunning rock and indie classics ranging from the Stone Roses to Motorhead.
On Sundays it appears that they even have someone spinning classic soul stuff which I may check out sometime this year, especially as it's free to get in.
Sam and Phil Landers have been lined up to present, Steven is in charge of news with Denis reading the sport who's also one of the music producers.
Stoobie is in charge of the website although Eric will be helping him out using his expert knowledge on Photoshop. Eric's also giving a hand with production stuff although I'm hoping that I get to do a few more additional jobs as well as branding, as the desk op job only really takes place on the days we're on air. Then again I reckon we'll be doing quite a lot of run-through's during the module.
A lot of people want to have a hand in producing adverts although lecturer Dave Sharp did explain that it was a tough task to undertake as it involves trying to find genuine clients and negotiate deals with them to hopefully pay us to produce an ad for them.
Although I'm happy with how it all went I felt really poorly throughout which may have been to do with me making a slightly rushed stew after getting in last night.
I'm feeling a bit better now and am hoping it will remain that way for a few days at least.
We've been asked to meet up early on Thursday before the dissertation lecture to discuss marketing plans and finally decide on a station name, with "Spiral" and "G-Radio" being potential examples. I'm not sure how long the dissertation lecture lasts as I have to get over to Denmark Hill at 1pm and it may mean in having to leave early.
That's pretty risky considering how vital the module is, although I am being offered additional support which should come in useful.
As for tonight it's the Pub Quiz at the Undercroft with Chris and Phil Harris hosting which should guarantee enjoyment. A few others maybe heading up to Trinity afterwards which will definitely be good fun as they normally tend to play some stunning rock and indie classics ranging from the Stone Roses to Motorhead.
On Sundays it appears that they even have someone spinning classic soul stuff which I may check out sometime this year, especially as it's free to get in.
Finding The Format
We've decided on the type of programme we'll be producing for the studio based part of the Advanced project which will be a LBGT based format aimed at a gay and lesbian audience. We were pretty tied between this and a format aimed at geeks which was an equally novelty but interesting idea although some did suggest blending the two together.
Although we haven't sorted out an exact plan we aim to show that gay radio can offer more than what Gaydar Radio has with it's constant roatation of dance and so called "funky house music".
Basically it's a case of eliminating all the ridiculous sterotypes.
We voted Chris as the overall editor for the team which I'm confident about and we'll be choosing the rest of the roles later and I'm hoping I get a job that I'm best suited to and won't be too daunting.
Overall it's an good challenge and different to what has been done before in this module in previous years.
Although we haven't sorted out an exact plan we aim to show that gay radio can offer more than what Gaydar Radio has with it's constant roatation of dance and so called "funky house music".
Basically it's a case of eliminating all the ridiculous sterotypes.
We voted Chris as the overall editor for the team which I'm confident about and we'll be choosing the rest of the roles later and I'm hoping I get a job that I'm best suited to and won't be too daunting.
Overall it's an good challenge and different to what has been done before in this module in previous years.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Ay! Oh! Let's Go!
It appears that I'm not the only one that hasn't recieved their loan for this semester which adds to the amount of problems that have been evident since the beginning of the semester.
However it didn't spoil a good night at the Undercroft which despite finishing at 11.pm still went rather steadily.
I arrived just after 8 where the walls had been painted white and was packed with people waiting to get a drink but after I managed to get two VKs I found Chris, Phil H, Denis, Barry and another of their Irish mates whose name escapes me. Quite a lot of final year radio students were out tonight and but not many Freshers or second year students apart from Oli P, Spikey G, Sammy C and Fiz. To be fair though, most of the second years were pretty tired after the rather exhuastive first day of Freshers Week although I'm sure we'll be seeing more of them tomorrow.
The music that was being played mainly consisted of indie/rock classics although their was a break for a bit of "funky house" and D&B, in particular "Original Nuttah" by Shy FX which had me on the floor looking rather embarrassing. Towards the end of the night they were playing some really good tunes such as "Let's Dance" by David Bowie and best of all "Blitzkreig Bop" by the Ramones although they had to ruin it near the end by playing Oasis' "Don't Look Back In Anger".
Although it closed at 11, it still took a very long time for us to leave the place, especially as Phil was trying to get Barry and Denis to have a scrap over who was the most drunk. It ended up with Chris videoing Barry on his mobile mucking about in the car park near the Harrow Campus library which in turn resulted in Barry grabbing the phone off him and running off with it where they both ended up in a bush and Barry deciding to leg it.
We then spent about 10 minutes trying to search for Chris's mobile which we weren't succesfull in, despite ringing it several times which can possibly mean that Barry's got his hands on it.
Hopefully things will have calmed down tomorrow where I just want to get the lectures out of the way and enjoy the rest of this week including my first show of the year this Wednesday.
The chaos of University for this year has well and truly started.
However it didn't spoil a good night at the Undercroft which despite finishing at 11.pm still went rather steadily.
I arrived just after 8 where the walls had been painted white and was packed with people waiting to get a drink but after I managed to get two VKs I found Chris, Phil H, Denis, Barry and another of their Irish mates whose name escapes me. Quite a lot of final year radio students were out tonight and but not many Freshers or second year students apart from Oli P, Spikey G, Sammy C and Fiz. To be fair though, most of the second years were pretty tired after the rather exhuastive first day of Freshers Week although I'm sure we'll be seeing more of them tomorrow.
The music that was being played mainly consisted of indie/rock classics although their was a break for a bit of "funky house" and D&B, in particular "Original Nuttah" by Shy FX which had me on the floor looking rather embarrassing. Towards the end of the night they were playing some really good tunes such as "Let's Dance" by David Bowie and best of all "Blitzkreig Bop" by the Ramones although they had to ruin it near the end by playing Oasis' "Don't Look Back In Anger".
Although it closed at 11, it still took a very long time for us to leave the place, especially as Phil was trying to get Barry and Denis to have a scrap over who was the most drunk. It ended up with Chris videoing Barry on his mobile mucking about in the car park near the Harrow Campus library which in turn resulted in Barry grabbing the phone off him and running off with it where they both ended up in a bush and Barry deciding to leg it.
We then spent about 10 minutes trying to search for Chris's mobile which we weren't succesfull in, despite ringing it several times which can possibly mean that Barry's got his hands on it.
Hopefully things will have calmed down tomorrow where I just want to get the lectures out of the way and enjoy the rest of this week including my first show of the year this Wednesday.
The chaos of University for this year has well and truly started.
Half Hearted Mondaze
The first day of lectures wasn't really as tough as I would thought it would be although we really are making a start on the actual assignment from tomorrow onwards when roles get given out and anyone who wants to take on the role as Editor must pitch in tomorrow's lecture. It's safe to say however that I definitely won't be one of them as I'm far too lazy to take on such a role.
The first day of Freshers Week for Smoke Radio appears to have got off to a pretty good start with the likes of Matt and Rupert back on air with their dry wit proving to be worth a listen as well as the Preloaded team who have brought back Maria Way to the station to give some cooking suggestions for the new students.
Tonight should be a good one at the Undercroft, even if they are shutting down earlier, which from what I've heard was the result of complaining from people living around Northwick Avenue about some people staying in Harrow Halls whilst everyone was away and the fact they were making too much noise in the early hours in the venue.
I imagine there will be further mucking about way after 11pm tonight, possibly in a few of the halls kitchens.
The first day of Freshers Week for Smoke Radio appears to have got off to a pretty good start with the likes of Matt and Rupert back on air with their dry wit proving to be worth a listen as well as the Preloaded team who have brought back Maria Way to the station to give some cooking suggestions for the new students.
Tonight should be a good one at the Undercroft, even if they are shutting down earlier, which from what I've heard was the result of complaining from people living around Northwick Avenue about some people staying in Harrow Halls whilst everyone was away and the fact they were making too much noise in the early hours in the venue.
I imagine there will be further mucking about way after 11pm tonight, possibly in a few of the halls kitchens.
Unsettled Starts
The lectures for the Advanced Radio module have started where we've been involved in a few short exercises set by Dave Sharp, such as identifying a list of famous people and what sort of radio programme they'd be best suited to for an interview. These ranged from Chris Hoy, to Rowan Williams and as far as Ne-Yo and Robert Redford who are all under the public eye in one form or another. We didn't do too well in that exercise as a group although there have been others that we've been better at such as identifying bad punctuation in a news report.
We were also played a few good extracts of audio including the Les Ross interview from a few days ago.
Most of us aren't happy about the SU changing the closing time of the Undercroft to 11pm which is nonsense and probably an indication that the year about to come isn't going to be one of the best I've had at University. That and the School Disco happening at Area this Friday where from what I've heard they won't be playing any classic 80s and 90s anthems in favour of D&B and dance music which I'm guessing is the station desperately trying to be trendy this year which I'm not sure about at all.
It's safe to say that my show has never fell into that category but it's good to have balance whilst changing things about to keep things fresh at least.
We were also played a few good extracts of audio including the Les Ross interview from a few days ago.
Most of us aren't happy about the SU changing the closing time of the Undercroft to 11pm which is nonsense and probably an indication that the year about to come isn't going to be one of the best I've had at University. That and the School Disco happening at Area this Friday where from what I've heard they won't be playing any classic 80s and 90s anthems in favour of D&B and dance music which I'm guessing is the station desperately trying to be trendy this year which I'm not sure about at all.
It's safe to say that my show has never fell into that category but it's good to have balance whilst changing things about to keep things fresh at least.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Quieter Arrivals
The first part of yesterday was spent in the recreation room of Harrow Halls where more new people were collecting the keys to their rooms and paying there deposit.
Smoke Radio had a stand their although really it was just the pool table covered with a few of our new posters and keyrings/bottle openers and the whole place was a lot less packed compared to before.
Those who were at the stall were Dan and Amy who were editing a video that Dan had recording in Reading last month that may go on the website although I'm hoping at the Freshers Fayres later in the week things will be more successfull.
There isn't really anything planned for today apart from beginning to feel nervous about the first of tomorrow's Advanced Radio lectures but it shouldn't be too much of a struggle as I know a bit more about what is expected. It's just a case of being able to undertake what's given if possible.
Smoke Radio had a stand their although really it was just the pool table covered with a few of our new posters and keyrings/bottle openers and the whole place was a lot less packed compared to before.
Those who were at the stall were Dan and Amy who were editing a video that Dan had recording in Reading last month that may go on the website although I'm hoping at the Freshers Fayres later in the week things will be more successfull.
There isn't really anything planned for today apart from beginning to feel nervous about the first of tomorrow's Advanced Radio lectures but it shouldn't be too much of a struggle as I know a bit more about what is expected. It's just a case of being able to undertake what's given if possible.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
The Definitive Area
I spent part of last night at Area 51 where they were having some sort of bands night for all the new arrivals. One of those performing happens to live opposite me in my flat where he was part of an acoustic guitar and vocal duo which was pretty enjoyable. There was also another band who did a rather rocky version of the Zutons/Mark Ronson's "Valerie" which stood out well although I'm hoping not to hear that song so much as last year.
I'm hoping that next week will see a similar turnout at Smoke Radio's "Battle Of The Bands" where amongst the acts performing are the distinctive blend of rapping and acoustic guitar known as "I Am One" made up of Jamie and Oli, two commercial music students.
I went back after about an hour and spent the rest of the night watching Jonathan Ross where Simon Pegg was one of the guests. I was rather impressed when as he walked on the 4 Poofs sang "Peg" by Steely Dan appropriately enough.
There was also another party in the flat next door where amongst those there were Bracey and Lucy who are now working as residential assistants in Harrow Halls for this year.
I hadn't seen them at all until last night although I'm sure they'll be around for quite a lot this year on many a Happy Mondaze night to come.
Tonight's pretty much sorted as it's a case of lying down watching the ladies take to the floor on "Strictly Come Dancing" followed by the first visits to boot camp on "The X-Factor". I'm rather gutted that I can't get Freeview in my room as I'm rather enjoying ITV2's "X-tra Factor" with Holly Willoughby presenting in a rather irreverant manner.
Still the finest female presenter on television by a long way.
I'm hoping that next week will see a similar turnout at Smoke Radio's "Battle Of The Bands" where amongst the acts performing are the distinctive blend of rapping and acoustic guitar known as "I Am One" made up of Jamie and Oli, two commercial music students.
I went back after about an hour and spent the rest of the night watching Jonathan Ross where Simon Pegg was one of the guests. I was rather impressed when as he walked on the 4 Poofs sang "Peg" by Steely Dan appropriately enough.
There was also another party in the flat next door where amongst those there were Bracey and Lucy who are now working as residential assistants in Harrow Halls for this year.
I hadn't seen them at all until last night although I'm sure they'll be around for quite a lot this year on many a Happy Mondaze night to come.
Tonight's pretty much sorted as it's a case of lying down watching the ladies take to the floor on "Strictly Come Dancing" followed by the first visits to boot camp on "The X-Factor". I'm rather gutted that I can't get Freeview in my room as I'm rather enjoying ITV2's "X-tra Factor" with Holly Willoughby presenting in a rather irreverant manner.
Still the finest female presenter on television by a long way.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Offline Aggro
They've decided to make things inconvinient in halls by switching to a new web provider although I've been told I won't be able to get my login details until Monday.
This may mean a lot of my time this weekend will be spent in the library although tomorrow the rest of the new arrivals will be making themselves home in halls and from what I've heard, a few of those from Smoke Radio may be having a stand and signing up
a few new members.
I don't know how I'm going to spend tonight although ideally I would like to spend it asleep in bed as I was really tired whilst on the tube to Marylebone. The only problem would be waking up at midnight and finding hard to get back to sleep again. An alternative however would be going through all the Earth Wind and Fire albums that are on my external hard-drive and haven't listened to yet.
Then again at the same time quite a lot of people may be in the kitchen of my flat as they've been deprived of internet access in their rooms since they arrived.
This may mean a lot of my time this weekend will be spent in the library although tomorrow the rest of the new arrivals will be making themselves home in halls and from what I've heard, a few of those from Smoke Radio may be having a stand and signing up
a few new members.
I don't know how I'm going to spend tonight although ideally I would like to spend it asleep in bed as I was really tired whilst on the tube to Marylebone. The only problem would be waking up at midnight and finding hard to get back to sleep again. An alternative however would be going through all the Earth Wind and Fire albums that are on my external hard-drive and haven't listened to yet.
Then again at the same time quite a lot of people may be in the kitchen of my flat as they've been deprived of internet access in their rooms since they arrived.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
In Search Of Progression
I went over to Denmark Hill as planned where there were only three children present this week due to one of them being shown round a possible secondary school.
We basically did more work creating station idents which went well although I'm rather concerned as to how this will progress over the next few weeks that I have left with them.
Ideally I would like to undertake more advanced studio based activities as it can get rather dull in quite a tiny room with the same four walls.
I'm pretty certain that those in the year that I am teaching said that they had never actually presented on the station and having heard little of actual output it can be rather difficult to understand overall what's needed. However the overall aim is to create tools that can be used on air and it can be rewarding in the end taking into account the time it takes to make them.
Tomorrow I'm going up to Marylebone again as it's the last time I'm seeing Ann, one of the counsellors who I've been to see throughout the last year and is leaving her position.
She's introducing me to someone who I will be going to see in Harrow to help me for this year so at least it won't mean as many visits to Central as there were last year.
I'm hoping I start to be more determined with how I want to go about the important assignments and managing the more stressfull areas that may start to appear.
We basically did more work creating station idents which went well although I'm rather concerned as to how this will progress over the next few weeks that I have left with them.
Ideally I would like to undertake more advanced studio based activities as it can get rather dull in quite a tiny room with the same four walls.
I'm pretty certain that those in the year that I am teaching said that they had never actually presented on the station and having heard little of actual output it can be rather difficult to understand overall what's needed. However the overall aim is to create tools that can be used on air and it can be rewarding in the end taking into account the time it takes to make them.
Tomorrow I'm going up to Marylebone again as it's the last time I'm seeing Ann, one of the counsellors who I've been to see throughout the last year and is leaving her position.
She's introducing me to someone who I will be going to see in Harrow to help me for this year so at least it won't mean as many visits to Central as there were last year.
I'm hoping I start to be more determined with how I want to go about the important assignments and managing the more stressfull areas that may start to appear.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
All Change For Autumn
I've hardly been doing anything for most of today but I am still very tired and in need of a lie down.
Most of it was spent in RP1 where the second years were sorting out things for next week and Chris was also around attempting to get one of his shows for next week off the ground.
Everyone seems to be working hard as Dan's given the on air branding a complete makeover with new voices and will hopefully make things sound consistent rather than sounding thrown together at once like last year.
Stewart came up later on and helped out web editor Amy with site where they've now put up the daytime schedule and it's a pretty good line up including Dan and Sophie's show between 5 and 7pm.
Amy and Alice were also mucking about by going around the room on the wheely chairs but the funniest part came when Chris decided to hit Lottie's behind with an empty bottle and because Lottie had plastic wrapping round her mouth, the noise that came out was hilarious.
I doubt I'll be around tomorrow as I'm heading up to Denmark Hill again to show the children I was working with last week to create slightly more advanced station idents for their radio programmes. Rather surprisingly they're a lot less chaotic and better behaved than those running Smoke Radio if today is anything to go by.
Most of it was spent in RP1 where the second years were sorting out things for next week and Chris was also around attempting to get one of his shows for next week off the ground.
Everyone seems to be working hard as Dan's given the on air branding a complete makeover with new voices and will hopefully make things sound consistent rather than sounding thrown together at once like last year.
Stewart came up later on and helped out web editor Amy with site where they've now put up the daytime schedule and it's a pretty good line up including Dan and Sophie's show between 5 and 7pm.
Amy and Alice were also mucking about by going around the room on the wheely chairs but the funniest part came when Chris decided to hit Lottie's behind with an empty bottle and because Lottie had plastic wrapping round her mouth, the noise that came out was hilarious.
I doubt I'll be around tomorrow as I'm heading up to Denmark Hill again to show the children I was working with last week to create slightly more advanced station idents for their radio programmes. Rather surprisingly they're a lot less chaotic and better behaved than those running Smoke Radio if today is anything to go by.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Wrong Gongs
I've spent most of tonight viewing what many would consider to be the most embarrasing awards ceremony to have taken place, The 1989 Brit Awards as hosted by Mick Fleetwood and Sam Fox.
Whoever thought they would be the ideal pairing to host the ceremony definitely had the wrong idea as their lack of chemistry as well as missed cues and people coming on stage at the wrong times resulted in this being one of the most infamous pieces of television in the last 20 years.
Examples included Boy George coming on stage instead of the Four Tops, Ronnie Wood and Bill Wyman completely lost during their presentation and Kenneth Baker MP being booed by the audience. The part that I find confusing however is the inclusion of a classical category which is ridiculous as during the nominations the only music that's played is Handel's Messiah which goes on to win the award.
Whilst the presenting side of the awards crashes on it's backside, the actual bands and performances themselves aren't too bad at all with Gloria Estefan, Yazz, Fairground Attraction and Bros amongst those showing that 1988 was pretty good year for music overall.
It's also worth pointing out that not one act from Stock Aitken and Waterman's
Hit Factory even come close to recieving an award!
Whoever thought they would be the ideal pairing to host the ceremony definitely had the wrong idea as their lack of chemistry as well as missed cues and people coming on stage at the wrong times resulted in this being one of the most infamous pieces of television in the last 20 years.
Examples included Boy George coming on stage instead of the Four Tops, Ronnie Wood and Bill Wyman completely lost during their presentation and Kenneth Baker MP being booed by the audience. The part that I find confusing however is the inclusion of a classical category which is ridiculous as during the nominations the only music that's played is Handel's Messiah which goes on to win the award.
Whilst the presenting side of the awards crashes on it's backside, the actual bands and performances themselves aren't too bad at all with Gloria Estefan, Yazz, Fairground Attraction and Bros amongst those showing that 1988 was pretty good year for music overall.
It's also worth pointing out that not one act from Stock Aitken and Waterman's
Hit Factory even come close to recieving an award!
Freshening Up
I recieved the remote control for my television in the mail today so I've managed to move everything in my room to where I want it to be now that I've been able to bring the extension lead for all the plugs back in as well. The packaging for my Freeview box seems to have disapeared however although the box itself and the leads are still there and haven't been taken.
I spent part of the afternoon over in Kenton where I helped Chris out with a few things for his show that will be starting next week for Freshers where amongst other things there will be an interview with Pat Sharp that I'm really looking forward to.
One of the other features that he wanted to do in addition would be to get someone to go knocking on the doors of Freshers in halls or even worse try and go undercover and steal something from the SU shop although they've been told not to attempt that on air which is a bit disapointing.
I actually need to make a start on my own show although I doubt I'll have that many features for the first one as I just want to spin some of the incredible tracks that I've managed to find over the summer, especially the current album by the Sunburst Band "Moving With The Shakers".
One of the best live performances I went to this year as well apart from the stunning gig by Maze a couple of nights ago.
I spent part of the afternoon over in Kenton where I helped Chris out with a few things for his show that will be starting next week for Freshers where amongst other things there will be an interview with Pat Sharp that I'm really looking forward to.
One of the other features that he wanted to do in addition would be to get someone to go knocking on the doors of Freshers in halls or even worse try and go undercover and steal something from the SU shop although they've been told not to attempt that on air which is a bit disapointing.
I actually need to make a start on my own show although I doubt I'll have that many features for the first one as I just want to spin some of the incredible tracks that I've managed to find over the summer, especially the current album by the Sunburst Band "Moving With The Shakers".
One of the best live performances I went to this year as well apart from the stunning gig by Maze a couple of nights ago.
Ill Prepared Interviews
Anyone wanting to have the presenter role in the Advanced Radio module this semester should have a listen to this audio of how not to do an interview.
This involves BBC WM's Les Ross, a well known voice in West Midlands radio interviewing Hardeep Singh Kohli from the One Show, where Les makes several slip ups with his questions making Hardeep feel that extra bit more uncomfortable.
I personally find Hardeep's presence on our TV screens a bit much with the loudest turbans that can possibly be seen anywhere. I'm sure I saw him presenting some sort of game show on CBBC a few days ago which proves a point to an extent.
Overall though the lesson here is to make sure you do your homework about the person being interviewed beforehand to avoid any Partridge-esque moments on air.
All the same it provides entertainment for the right or wrong reasons.
This involves BBC WM's Les Ross, a well known voice in West Midlands radio interviewing Hardeep Singh Kohli from the One Show, where Les makes several slip ups with his questions making Hardeep feel that extra bit more uncomfortable.
I personally find Hardeep's presence on our TV screens a bit much with the loudest turbans that can possibly be seen anywhere. I'm sure I saw him presenting some sort of game show on CBBC a few days ago which proves a point to an extent.
Overall though the lesson here is to make sure you do your homework about the person being interviewed beforehand to avoid any Partridge-esque moments on air.
All the same it provides entertainment for the right or wrong reasons.
The Longest Night
I ended up in bed at around 11 last night which was the earliest I've been for a long while although it took me a long time to get to sleep as I felt very uncomfortable and time really did seem to go very slowly.
I started to remember the really ridiculous things I was saying last night in Spoons such as how potatoes could be seductive, and ended up drooling on my bed covers although that made me feel slightly less poorly.
I'm not sure what the plan for today is although later I may go to Sainsbury's to buy some powder to make a chicken stew with rice later today, and hopefully be a bit more calm about things than I was yesterday.
I still feel a tiny bit queasy now but hopefully this won't be the case for too long.
I started to remember the really ridiculous things I was saying last night in Spoons such as how potatoes could be seductive, and ended up drooling on my bed covers although that made me feel slightly less poorly.
I'm not sure what the plan for today is although later I may go to Sainsbury's to buy some powder to make a chicken stew with rice later today, and hopefully be a bit more calm about things than I was yesterday.
I still feel a tiny bit queasy now but hopefully this won't be the case for too long.
Monday, September 22, 2008
"Fire=Phantom Menace"
Tonight was rather chaotic although that was to be expected, starting off by going to the Moon On The Hill in Harrow where I met up with Jake and Oli P who were having a few drinks. About half an hour later we made our way to the Junction where quite a lot of the second and third year radio students were welcoming the new arrivals and I got branded as "The Grandad" having been there the longest out of everyone.
I did get a bit tipsy whilst I was there and after about two hours we headed up to "The New Moon" in Kenton where Lottie and Alice were compering the pub quiz in which I ended up in a team consisting entirely of Freshers who had seen a fire safety video earlier on which inspired the title of this post.
One of the rounds was made up of answers that had the word "Tom" inside them with one of the examples being "Which band reached number one with a cover of the Bangles 'Eternal Flame'" to which the answer was "ATOMic Kitten".
We didn't actually give our sheet of answers to be marked but I think we came pretty high amongst those that entered.
I left at around half 10 with Lottie, Alice and Sophie although Sophie had to rush back to the pub as she had left her wallet behind.
I got back safely however and although this time is pretty early I feel really knackered.
Hopefully I see everyone again tomorrow as there's quite a lot of preparation to be done for next week.
I did get a bit tipsy whilst I was there and after about two hours we headed up to "The New Moon" in Kenton where Lottie and Alice were compering the pub quiz in which I ended up in a team consisting entirely of Freshers who had seen a fire safety video earlier on which inspired the title of this post.
One of the rounds was made up of answers that had the word "Tom" inside them with one of the examples being "Which band reached number one with a cover of the Bangles 'Eternal Flame'" to which the answer was "ATOMic Kitten".
We didn't actually give our sheet of answers to be marked but I think we came pretty high amongst those that entered.
I left at around half 10 with Lottie, Alice and Sophie although Sophie had to rush back to the pub as she had left her wallet behind.
I got back safely however and although this time is pretty early I feel really knackered.
Hopefully I see everyone again tomorrow as there's quite a lot of preparation to be done for next week.
Induction Based Intoxication
The plans for tonight have been changed slightly as it turns out that Barry is ill on his own birthday meaning that I'll be staying in Harrow for the rest of today.
I'm hoping they'll be quite a few people at the Junction although I'm guessing they'll also be quite a lot of drink involved too.
It's quite difficult getting to actually know most of the new arrivals although it will be a lot less harder than it was last year because this time I'm actually here meaning things can build up steadily and I'm certain that it will get even more eventful as the year goes on.
Here's hoping that today's enjoyable whatever happens.
I'm hoping they'll be quite a few people at the Junction although I'm guessing they'll also be quite a lot of drink involved too.
It's quite difficult getting to actually know most of the new arrivals although it will be a lot less harder than it was last year because this time I'm actually here meaning things can build up steadily and I'm certain that it will get even more eventful as the year goes on.
Here's hoping that today's enjoyable whatever happens.
Drunken Screeching
Today is set to be rather adventurous as later on most of the first year radio students will be going to the Junction in Harrow for a few drinks to get to know most of those who have been around a bit longer.
I've never actually been to the Junction before so I'm hoping it's good fun and that I can meet a few more of those who will be doing this rather enjoyable course at Westminster.
Later on tonight a few of us will be going to Central London as Barry, one of the Irish housemates at Chris, Stewart's etc is turning 23 and we're going to a karaoke bar which I really am looking forward to. A few others will be turning up as well including Pete and Tudor who probably will have a lot too offer.
I'm not sure if I'll actually end up having a go on there but it wouldn't be too surprising
if I did.
Here's hoping that they have "The Ace Of Spades" as one of the songs on offer.
I've never actually been to the Junction before so I'm hoping it's good fun and that I can meet a few more of those who will be doing this rather enjoyable course at Westminster.
Later on tonight a few of us will be going to Central London as Barry, one of the Irish housemates at Chris, Stewart's etc is turning 23 and we're going to a karaoke bar which I really am looking forward to. A few others will be turning up as well including Pete and Tudor who probably will have a lot too offer.
I'm not sure if I'll actually end up having a go on there but it wouldn't be too surprising
if I did.
Here's hoping that they have "The Ace Of Spades" as one of the songs on offer.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Soul Domination
Tonight's gig with Frankie Beverly and Maze at the Hammersmith Appollo was another one of those gigs which turned out to be even better than what I expected it to be.
I arrived in time to see the support acts which started off with Adelaide McKenzie, a soul vocalist who's new to me but gave a really good performance including a version of Mary Mary's "Shackles".
This was followed by someone who I really didn't expect to see performing, Don-E who is best known for his 1992 Top 40 hit "Love Makes The World Go Round" as well as being Beverley Knight's cousin. He performed two tracks from his new album including a cover of Bob Marley's "Waiting In Vain" as well as the stunning title track from his 1992 album "Unbreakable".
The last of the support acts consisted of two members of Light Of The World who performed songs from George Benson and Luther Vandross as well as two of their own songs including "London Town".
Things really got exciting as the main act was about to start when all the lights went down and the band members came on stage although it was about five minutes before they actually started the crowd were really enthusiastic throughout. The lighting itself was absolutley stunning where the backgrounds would change and the house lights would come on at unexpected points adding to the excitement.
I'd never actually seen Frankie Beverly before tonight and was a lot slimmer compared to how I thought he would be. He was also wearing what looked like a nylon t-shirt with a baseball cap and really was sweating as the performance progressed.
Overall it was superb throughout with tunes such as "We Are One" and "Running Away" as well as "Joy And Pain" which everyone was joining in with and just sped by.
Definitely worth the wait and a superb way to start my final year at University.
I arrived in time to see the support acts which started off with Adelaide McKenzie, a soul vocalist who's new to me but gave a really good performance including a version of Mary Mary's "Shackles".
This was followed by someone who I really didn't expect to see performing, Don-E who is best known for his 1992 Top 40 hit "Love Makes The World Go Round" as well as being Beverley Knight's cousin. He performed two tracks from his new album including a cover of Bob Marley's "Waiting In Vain" as well as the stunning title track from his 1992 album "Unbreakable".
The last of the support acts consisted of two members of Light Of The World who performed songs from George Benson and Luther Vandross as well as two of their own songs including "London Town".
Things really got exciting as the main act was about to start when all the lights went down and the band members came on stage although it was about five minutes before they actually started the crowd were really enthusiastic throughout. The lighting itself was absolutley stunning where the backgrounds would change and the house lights would come on at unexpected points adding to the excitement.
I'd never actually seen Frankie Beverly before tonight and was a lot slimmer compared to how I thought he would be. He was also wearing what looked like a nylon t-shirt with a baseball cap and really was sweating as the performance progressed.
Overall it was superb throughout with tunes such as "We Are One" and "Running Away" as well as "Joy And Pain" which everyone was joining in with and just sped by.
Definitely worth the wait and a superb way to start my final year at University.
The Definitive Soul Night
It's another rather nice day outside halls although not many people are up after last night. I was in bed at around 1am however although I'm not exactly active but hopefully by tonight that shouldn't be the case.
This could possibly be the best gig I go to this year as it's in quite a big venue and features one of the bands that really got me interested in soul and disco music to a bigger extent almost a decade ago, Maze and Frankie Beverly whose standout song "Joy And Pain" has to be one of the finest live performances I've ever heard, from the "Live In New Orleans" LP recorded in 1981.
I'll make my way to the Hammersmith Apollo at around 6pm as the doors open at 7 and I'm guessing it will take me about an hour to get there from Northwick Park.
Of course the problem is finding the venue itself as the map on the website isn't very clear but it doesn't look too far from the Underground station.
It should be quite a night overall which may result in a strained throat.
This could possibly be the best gig I go to this year as it's in quite a big venue and features one of the bands that really got me interested in soul and disco music to a bigger extent almost a decade ago, Maze and Frankie Beverly whose standout song "Joy And Pain" has to be one of the finest live performances I've ever heard, from the "Live In New Orleans" LP recorded in 1981.
I'll make my way to the Hammersmith Apollo at around 6pm as the doors open at 7 and I'm guessing it will take me about an hour to get there from Northwick Park.
Of course the problem is finding the venue itself as the map on the website isn't very clear but it doesn't look too far from the Underground station.
It should be quite a night overall which may result in a strained throat.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
The More Traditional Welcoming
There have been more arrivals in my flat throught the day so it seems more likely that we'll all be staying here as I really doubt we'll want to go through the hassle of moving everything around.
In the flat opposite us there's a party happening in the kitchen where a lot of of drinking is taking place although I've only brought with me my bottle of fizzy orange, although hopefully I'll find something stronger to mix it with.
I'm not sure if I'll even get any shut eye but the next few days looks set to go well and I can actually be around University with all the new people arriving this year.
Not being able to do that last year was partly why I became all bitter throughout the rest of the year but with things set to go smoothly for Freshers Week at least, here's hoping it continues that way throughout.
In the flat opposite us there's a party happening in the kitchen where a lot of of drinking is taking place although I've only brought with me my bottle of fizzy orange, although hopefully I'll find something stronger to mix it with.
I'm not sure if I'll even get any shut eye but the next few days looks set to go well and I can actually be around University with all the new people arriving this year.
Not being able to do that last year was partly why I became all bitter throughout the rest of the year but with things set to go smoothly for Freshers Week at least, here's hoping it continues that way throughout.
Almost Settled In
I've managed to move into my room in halls sooner than I thought as they gave me my key on arrival. I'm hoping this room will be the one I'm in all year as it's in the same building as the one during my second year which I thought was nicer than last year and you get a good view of everything outside.
The only problem is that I forgot to take the remote control for my television with me which I'm rather gutted about although I did bring my Freeview box so all is not lost, even if that means having to go into the kitchen to watch television.
Hopefully this won't be the case for too long.
I doubt I'll be up to much for the rest of the day although I may go into Sainsbury's to buy a few things and may spend some time outside as I've arrived on a rather nice day.
Bearing in mind that on this day last year I had to go back to Canterbury after just one day of moving in but I'm confident that things won't end up anywhere near those circumstances.
The only problem is that I forgot to take the remote control for my television with me which I'm rather gutted about although I did bring my Freeview box so all is not lost, even if that means having to go into the kitchen to watch television.
Hopefully this won't be the case for too long.
I doubt I'll be up to much for the rest of the day although I may go into Sainsbury's to buy a few things and may spend some time outside as I've arrived on a rather nice day.
Bearing in mind that on this day last year I had to go back to Canterbury after just one day of moving in but I'm confident that things won't end up anywhere near those circumstances.
Friday, September 19, 2008
A Large Storage Hold
I'm almost done with packing my things for tomorrow where I'm heading off to Harrow Halls rather early. To be honest it may be too early as after ringing them this morning there won't be anyone around to give me the key to my room until after 2pm although I've been told I can put my belongings into a store room before then.
Hopefully by the time I've moved into my own room I will be able to settle in a lot better and have the advantage of being able to do my own cooking every night and not have to put up with anything revolting made in a wok with rice that tastes like polysterene.
On the downside I won't have any bath to lie in although the showers in halls can be warm if not as comfortable.
Freshers Week should be going OK as I've been given a show to go out on Wednesday at 8pm and hopefully I'll be able to continue in that timeslot throughout the year.
Although lectures start in that same week it won't stop me from overdoing it with the fruit flavoured alcoholic drinks although it never really gets that exciting until they get mixed with stronger drinks.
Here's hoping it's not too much of a struggle.
Hopefully by the time I've moved into my own room I will be able to settle in a lot better and have the advantage of being able to do my own cooking every night and not have to put up with anything revolting made in a wok with rice that tastes like polysterene.
On the downside I won't have any bath to lie in although the showers in halls can be warm if not as comfortable.
Freshers Week should be going OK as I've been given a show to go out on Wednesday at 8pm and hopefully I'll be able to continue in that timeslot throughout the year.
Although lectures start in that same week it won't stop me from overdoing it with the fruit flavoured alcoholic drinks although it never really gets that exciting until they get mixed with stronger drinks.
Here's hoping it's not too much of a struggle.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Culinary In Canterbury
We went to Zizzis in Canterbury earlier tonight along with Laura who's moved into her new house in Canterbury just before starting University.
I was rather stumped as whether to order a pasta dish or a pizza and ended up choosing a pizza as in all honesty I'll probably be going through a lot of pasta once I get back to University and the pizzas you heat up in an oven as opposed to eating in a restaurant are very sub-standard.
I also enjoyed a nice apple crumble for dessert made similar to what you would get in Prezzo although I prefer the choice of dishes that are available in Zizzis to the former.
I really need to make an effort and visit some nice restaurants in London this year as I'm sure that there are plenty of places that serve really nice meaty dishes that are filling as well as more Italian places that aren't part of chains.
Even if it does end up breaking the bank it's always worth a visit and very filling as a result.
Brick Lane may well and truly be calling.
I was rather stumped as whether to order a pasta dish or a pizza and ended up choosing a pizza as in all honesty I'll probably be going through a lot of pasta once I get back to University and the pizzas you heat up in an oven as opposed to eating in a restaurant are very sub-standard.
I also enjoyed a nice apple crumble for dessert made similar to what you would get in Prezzo although I prefer the choice of dishes that are available in Zizzis to the former.
I really need to make an effort and visit some nice restaurants in London this year as I'm sure that there are plenty of places that serve really nice meaty dishes that are filling as well as more Italian places that aren't part of chains.
Even if it does end up breaking the bank it's always worth a visit and very filling as a result.
Brick Lane may well and truly be calling.
Practical Priorities
My first visit to the Lyndhurst primary school and their station Grove FM went rather well where I taught four of the pupils how to make basic station idents by using Audacity and recording their voices into portable MP3 recorders.
It was definitely an enjoyable session with them, and the idea of letting them get on with it seemed to work well as they knew what they were doing and were happy with their results.
When I come back next week we'll probably look at slightly more advanced idents such as tagged beds and music tracks, and as it progresses I hope to adapt what they've done into tools they can actually use on air as well as showing them how to do the introduce and forward promote items.
Enjoyable as it is, I'm not sure about me being addressed as "Mr Blamires" but I wouldn't want to go down the route of Stewart Lee's character in the Teachers sketches from "Fist Of Fun" where he acted all trendy by decorating his classroom with Reservoir Dogs posters and bringing in Crowded House CDs.
Overall it's probably more a case of me learning more about Audacity than showing them how to produce station audio.
It was definitely an enjoyable session with them, and the idea of letting them get on with it seemed to work well as they knew what they were doing and were happy with their results.
When I come back next week we'll probably look at slightly more advanced idents such as tagged beds and music tracks, and as it progresses I hope to adapt what they've done into tools they can actually use on air as well as showing them how to do the introduce and forward promote items.
Enjoyable as it is, I'm not sure about me being addressed as "Mr Blamires" but I wouldn't want to go down the route of Stewart Lee's character in the Teachers sketches from "Fist Of Fun" where he acted all trendy by decorating his classroom with Reservoir Dogs posters and bringing in Crowded House CDs.
Overall it's probably more a case of me learning more about Audacity than showing them how to produce station audio.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Throwing Out The Toys
I am absolutley bricking it with regards to tomorrow as I'm making a rather long train journey from Canterbury to Denmark Hill where I will be showing children at a nearby primary school how to edit audio and learn practical areas of basic radio.
I'm hoping that they won't all be too chaotic but I am going to take a very relaxed attitude and let them get on with it whilst at the same time give a good explanation although I don't want to talk down to them.
I'll be perfectly honest though, I am really irritated that a lot of people on my course have got work experience and jobs at proper radio stations and I haven't even got that far at all.
I almost had a foot in the door when I made visits to two BBC stations last year but after
I went into hypomania I lost all determination for taking it further.
But then again I've barely felt motivated to apply to any stations this year because in all honesty the majority of those in London are absolutley mediocre with the likes of
Snooze Radio and Tragic 105.4 taking the excitement out of the city.
How they pull in the listeners is beyond me and do they really actually listen as opposed to having it on as background?
Do they bollocks.
Hopefully the "coolness" will be restored when Jazz FM returns to the airwaves in October and what they appear to have on offer from their audio preview sums up what London should be like.
On a similar note Trevor Nelson on his Radio 2 show has mentioned what could be one of the best gigs I go to this year, Maze at the Hammersmith Appolo although it seems that they aren't going to any venues in the North of England.
Then again I'd expect a lot of them will be travelling down, and to be in the audience for when they perform "Joy and Pain" will be quite something when everyone joins in at the end.
I'm hoping that they won't all be too chaotic but I am going to take a very relaxed attitude and let them get on with it whilst at the same time give a good explanation although I don't want to talk down to them.
I'll be perfectly honest though, I am really irritated that a lot of people on my course have got work experience and jobs at proper radio stations and I haven't even got that far at all.
I almost had a foot in the door when I made visits to two BBC stations last year but after
I went into hypomania I lost all determination for taking it further.
But then again I've barely felt motivated to apply to any stations this year because in all honesty the majority of those in London are absolutley mediocre with the likes of
Snooze Radio and Tragic 105.4 taking the excitement out of the city.
How they pull in the listeners is beyond me and do they really actually listen as opposed to having it on as background?
Do they bollocks.
Hopefully the "coolness" will be restored when Jazz FM returns to the airwaves in October and what they appear to have on offer from their audio preview sums up what London should be like.
On a similar note Trevor Nelson on his Radio 2 show has mentioned what could be one of the best gigs I go to this year, Maze at the Hammersmith Appolo although it seems that they aren't going to any venues in the North of England.
Then again I'd expect a lot of them will be travelling down, and to be in the audience for when they perform "Joy and Pain" will be quite something when everyone joins in at the end.
Travelling Even Lighter
I managed to order a new railcard today although this time it didn't take me anywhere near as long as last time. This was because I was able to apply for it online via Railcards Online and didn't have to go through all the hassle of filling out a PDF form and having to attach a photo to it.
Especially when the East station in Canterbury doesn't even have a photo booth.
The online form basically allows you to upload any photo provided it's suitable and you're more or less sorted.
The downside is that I have to wait a couple of days before delivery but it's a lot less stressfull filling in the form online.
The second episode of Fresh has been uploaded to the BBC website and includes the seen set in the Freshers Fayre. I can be seen at around 2 minutes in, along with a few others from the station although after seeing the episode in full I'm glad that I wasn't one of those appearing in the final scene.
That's probably the nearest I'll get to being involved with the BBC.
Especially when the East station in Canterbury doesn't even have a photo booth.
The online form basically allows you to upload any photo provided it's suitable and you're more or less sorted.
The downside is that I have to wait a couple of days before delivery but it's a lot less stressfull filling in the form online.
The second episode of Fresh has been uploaded to the BBC website and includes the seen set in the Freshers Fayre. I can be seen at around 2 minutes in, along with a few others from the station although after seeing the episode in full I'm glad that I wasn't one of those appearing in the final scene.
That's probably the nearest I'll get to being involved with the BBC.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The Wireless-less House
A full list of the stations that Global plan to rebrand have been published on Media Guardian and it's good to see that certain stations such as BRMB and Beacon Radio in the West Midlands will be sold off. This is because of them being in an area where Heart already broadcasts on 100.7 FM which was the first station to be launched under that brand back in 1994.
It's fair to say that the 00s haven't been the best decade for commercial radio where it's slowly been decreasing in quality and excitement that was evident in the previous decade from stations such as SGR, Essex FM, and even Invicta before they were brought by Capital.
On a rather different note, my Aunt Alison came over after dropping Laura off who is about to start her second year at University in Canterbury, and she spoke to us about what we could be doing at Christmas when we go over to stay at that house in South Creake in Norfolk.
One of the things I suggested was to visit Thursford where they have a lot of steam engines and old fairground rides. It would definitely make it more interesting as nothing really happens when we go over and the North Norfolk coast is nowhere near as enjoyable in the winter.
Especially when it's really windy.
It's fair to say that the 00s haven't been the best decade for commercial radio where it's slowly been decreasing in quality and excitement that was evident in the previous decade from stations such as SGR, Essex FM, and even Invicta before they were brought by Capital.
On a rather different note, my Aunt Alison came over after dropping Laura off who is about to start her second year at University in Canterbury, and she spoke to us about what we could be doing at Christmas when we go over to stay at that house in South Creake in Norfolk.
One of the things I suggested was to visit Thursford where they have a lot of steam engines and old fairground rides. It would definitely make it more interesting as nothing really happens when we go over and the North Norfolk coast is nowhere near as enjoyable in the winter.
Especially when it's really windy.
Showing (And Pulling) The Ropes
This Thursday I'm making the first of quite a few visits to a primary school in South London who have their own radio station where I've volunteered to show them how to go about creating station idents and how to top and tail a radio programme amongst other things.
The software that they use for editing audio is Audacity which I haven't really used before and I'm finding it really hard to make use of it myself, especially with muti-track editing.
It doesn't look as easy to use as Audition and I would be more than happy to install that on all of the laptops that they have there as it would give the children a more genuine perspective of how audio is edited if they were to work in radio.
Then again by the time they're old enough I'm sure we'll be up to Audition version 10 and it might even have a different name.
I'm hoping that it will be a valueable experience although it's not meant to produce great big results but will definitely be useful in introducing younger people how to have a go at radio.
The software that they use for editing audio is Audacity which I haven't really used before and I'm finding it really hard to make use of it myself, especially with muti-track editing.
It doesn't look as easy to use as Audition and I would be more than happy to install that on all of the laptops that they have there as it would give the children a more genuine perspective of how audio is edited if they were to work in radio.
Then again by the time they're old enough I'm sure we'll be up to Audition version 10 and it might even have a different name.
I'm hoping that it will be a valueable experience although it's not meant to produce great big results but will definitely be useful in introducing younger people how to have a go at radio.
Finally Conquered
I didn't think it would go this far but Global Radio have announced plans to re-brand the majority of their stations in the UK under the Heart brand and Invicta FM happens to be one of them.
The details can be found in this article but I really don't understand why they want to remove station brands that have had such a long heritage in their own respective transmission areas and that listeners can easilly recall even if the sound of the stations have distanced a lot from when they were in their prime.
It really will be sad to see the disapearance of such an iconic brand in Kent although there are very few vehicles with Invicta FM car stickers around now than there were over 5 years ago.
In fact I've not seen one car sticker with the current logo on which may suggest that they haven't even made any although it could be a sign of wanting the transition to slowly appear.
On a positive note though, I'm glad that in the article they've included the Invicta FM logo from the early 90s which was present on many a car window when I moved to Canterbury and could be seen from it's Canterbury studios, the building of which now occupys the Bar Bars club.
Overall it's the final nail in the coffin.
The details can be found in this article but I really don't understand why they want to remove station brands that have had such a long heritage in their own respective transmission areas and that listeners can easilly recall even if the sound of the stations have distanced a lot from when they were in their prime.
It really will be sad to see the disapearance of such an iconic brand in Kent although there are very few vehicles with Invicta FM car stickers around now than there were over 5 years ago.
In fact I've not seen one car sticker with the current logo on which may suggest that they haven't even made any although it could be a sign of wanting the transition to slowly appear.
On a positive note though, I'm glad that in the article they've included the Invicta FM logo from the early 90s which was present on many a car window when I moved to Canterbury and could be seen from it's Canterbury studios, the building of which now occupys the Bar Bars club.
Overall it's the final nail in the coffin.
Monday, September 15, 2008
An Unnoticeable Departure
The final episode of Grange Hill has just been shown on BBC 1 which didn't have the most inspiring storyline but it was good to see Todd Carty making an appearance as Peter Jenkins visiting his nephew "Togger" Johnson. The final scene where Togger messes about with the arrow giving directions for the year sevens was a good way to go out on however reflecting on a similar scene in the first episode 30 years ago.
I've also liked the fact that they've brought back the original theme tune for the final series although in the early days Thames Television used an arrangement of the same tune as the theme to their game show "Give Us A Clue".
Which probably makes sense as it falls into the category of the programme's title being sung the to the theme tune itself in the same way as "The Sweeney" and "This Is Your Life".
Whilst their are several other examples, the one that I tend to associate with
that category is "Tonight With Jonathan Ross" which was shown on Channel 4 three nights a week during the early 90s and over the hammond organ tune the viewer could sing "Tonight With Jonathan Roooooss, Tonight With Jonathan Rooooooss".
They changed the theme slightly every week with it once being played on a vibraphone and when the programme was done on location from Paris it was played on an accordian.
I still think that theme tune is a lot better than the one he currently uses on his BBC 1 chat show which hasn't been changed at all since the show started in late 2001 although the show itself is probably more notable for the house band "4 Poofs And A Piano" when it comes to anything musical.
I'm certain there was actually five of them to start off with.
I've also liked the fact that they've brought back the original theme tune for the final series although in the early days Thames Television used an arrangement of the same tune as the theme to their game show "Give Us A Clue".
Which probably makes sense as it falls into the category of the programme's title being sung the to the theme tune itself in the same way as "The Sweeney" and "This Is Your Life".
Whilst their are several other examples, the one that I tend to associate with
that category is "Tonight With Jonathan Ross" which was shown on Channel 4 three nights a week during the early 90s and over the hammond organ tune the viewer could sing "Tonight With Jonathan Roooooss, Tonight With Jonathan Rooooooss".
They changed the theme slightly every week with it once being played on a vibraphone and when the programme was done on location from Paris it was played on an accordian.
I still think that theme tune is a lot better than the one he currently uses on his BBC 1 chat show which hasn't been changed at all since the show started in late 2001 although the show itself is probably more notable for the house band "4 Poofs And A Piano" when it comes to anything musical.
I'm certain there was actually five of them to start off with.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Stourside Jazz
I spent tonight with Dad and Concha watching the Frances Knight Trio perform, this time at the Riverside Club near the Westgate Towers.
They were joined by saxophonist Paul Booth and gave a rather enjoyable performance although at times my mind kept drifting off elsewhere as it normally does at these sort of conditions.
Most of the material they did was similar to their last performance at Orange Street about a month ago although this time there was no vocalist.
One of the standout points was during the drum solo of one of the tunes when Frances on piano attempted to replicate a latin percussion sound like the beginning of "Copacabana", whilst Paul on sax produced what sounded like a talking drum like you would get on an early Matt Bianco record.
Frances even came over to our table halfway through the performance when the band took a break and it was nice to actually get to meet her after seeing her perform quite a few times in Canterbury.
I imagine this will be my last gig I go to in Canterbury this year which are enjoyable but not as good as the ones I've been to in London.
Then again I tend to find that what comes out of the studio is usually better than what is done on stage.
They were joined by saxophonist Paul Booth and gave a rather enjoyable performance although at times my mind kept drifting off elsewhere as it normally does at these sort of conditions.
Most of the material they did was similar to their last performance at Orange Street about a month ago although this time there was no vocalist.
One of the standout points was during the drum solo of one of the tunes when Frances on piano attempted to replicate a latin percussion sound like the beginning of "Copacabana", whilst Paul on sax produced what sounded like a talking drum like you would get on an early Matt Bianco record.
Frances even came over to our table halfway through the performance when the band took a break and it was nice to actually get to meet her after seeing her perform quite a few times in Canterbury.
I imagine this will be my last gig I go to in Canterbury this year which are enjoyable but not as good as the ones I've been to in London.
Then again I tend to find that what comes out of the studio is usually better than what is done on stage.
"Something Down There"
On an earlier post I referred to a Youtube video with the creators of "The Trap Door" appearing on Rolf's Cartoon Club with models of some of their characters.
One of them being "The Splund" who features in this episode and is probably the campest of all characters from the show with a habit of bursting into uncontrollable laughter.
I won't spoil the ending but I've always wondered if the same effect would happen on a certain Ross Tilley if approached with a knitting needle or any other sharp object.
Also listen carefully to what Berk is singing as he comes back at 2:53.
One of the most random animations but very amusing mainly due to Willie Rushton's dialogue.
One of them being "The Splund" who features in this episode and is probably the campest of all characters from the show with a habit of bursting into uncontrollable laughter.
I won't spoil the ending but I've always wondered if the same effect would happen on a certain Ross Tilley if approached with a knitting needle or any other sharp object.
Also listen carefully to what Berk is singing as he comes back at 2:53.
One of the most random animations but very amusing mainly due to Willie Rushton's dialogue.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
"The Show That's Done For Comedy...."
Today's been a lot brighter although not as warm I'd like it to be and it looks set to remain that way tomorrow. Hopefully it will stay the same when I arrive back in London next week although I'll need to make sure that there's someone around in halls to give me my key.
The televised version of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue aired on BBC Four earlier tonight which was enjoyable although some of the games and routines they performed had been done before on the Radio 4 programme. One of them being the legendary "Quiz Of Quizzes"
in which Who Wants To Be A Millionaire ended up turning into Just A Minute which
in turn turned into 15 To 1 and so on.
There were also rounds such as "Uxbridge English Dictionary" and "Pick Up Song"
but no appearance by scorer Samantha due to her spending her time with a bee keeper or along those lines.
I thought the programme could have been longer as I'm sure they did more rounds in the actual stage show but overall it was a good opportunity to see one of radio's funniest shows done in front of the cameras.
It still works better on radio though and will be interesting to find out how it goes on without Humph in the chair.
The televised version of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue aired on BBC Four earlier tonight which was enjoyable although some of the games and routines they performed had been done before on the Radio 4 programme. One of them being the legendary "Quiz Of Quizzes"
in which Who Wants To Be A Millionaire ended up turning into Just A Minute which
in turn turned into 15 To 1 and so on.
There were also rounds such as "Uxbridge English Dictionary" and "Pick Up Song"
but no appearance by scorer Samantha due to her spending her time with a bee keeper or along those lines.
I thought the programme could have been longer as I'm sure they did more rounds in the actual stage show but overall it was a good opportunity to see one of radio's funniest shows done in front of the cameras.
It still works better on radio though and will be interesting to find out how it goes on without Humph in the chair.
Talking Book
Last night's Jonathan Ross saw a very entertaining interview with Stevie Wonder where he revealed how he'd managed to continue performing despite the death of his mother two years ago.
It was entertaining overall with one of the highlights being when Jonathan attempted to give his own take on Stevie's songs including "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing".
Bluey from Incognito once revealed to Craig Charles on BBC 6 Music that Stevie was present at one of their gigs and could be heard singing to that song when the band performed it which was one of their high points.
Oddly enough I've always played the original version of the song on my own show which has a nice latin feel to it although it probably doesn't really reflect the summer we've just had.
At the end of the show Stevie performed three of his tunes including "Superstition" with Jonathan Ross playing drums, finishing off with "Sir Duke" which I've probably known the longest out of any of his material.
This was probably because Radio 2 always used to play it in the days they were aiming at an older audience alongside the more inferior "I Just Called To Say I Love You".
Oddly enough he didn't perform any new material although he did refer to the lyrics of a song he had written in support of Barrack Obama which got a good response from the audience.
They should have just given Stevie the whole show as the other guests especially Peter Crouch's girlfriend were appalling but I imagine that was the idea.
Definitley worth staying up for.
It was entertaining overall with one of the highlights being when Jonathan attempted to give his own take on Stevie's songs including "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing".
Bluey from Incognito once revealed to Craig Charles on BBC 6 Music that Stevie was present at one of their gigs and could be heard singing to that song when the band performed it which was one of their high points.
Oddly enough I've always played the original version of the song on my own show which has a nice latin feel to it although it probably doesn't really reflect the summer we've just had.
At the end of the show Stevie performed three of his tunes including "Superstition" with Jonathan Ross playing drums, finishing off with "Sir Duke" which I've probably known the longest out of any of his material.
This was probably because Radio 2 always used to play it in the days they were aiming at an older audience alongside the more inferior "I Just Called To Say I Love You".
Oddly enough he didn't perform any new material although he did refer to the lyrics of a song he had written in support of Barrack Obama which got a good response from the audience.
They should have just given Stevie the whole show as the other guests especially Peter Crouch's girlfriend were appalling but I imagine that was the idea.
Definitley worth staying up for.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Did It Go Wrong After Starting University?
I'm determined to make good use out of my final year at University as it really will be my last proper year of freedom and innocence if those aren't too bigger words to describe it.
I'm finding myself currently going through all my VHS's from late 2004-2005 when things really seemed to be going positive and the thought of starting University being very exciting.
Most of the things I've got are several music documentaries and comedy panel games along the lines of Have I Got News For You and Buzzcocks, as well as the finals of
Strictly Come Dancing and The X Factor.
It was also around the time of Band Aid 20 which was pretty exciting even if the record itself was rather naff although it does remind me of mucking about in college towards Christmas when a lecturer was absent whilst playing a load of Christmas tunes from my laptop.
This lead on to Live 8 in July 2005 which really was a happy time as I'd just finished the HND course and had two weeks off from ASDA around the time which felt special although I only worked on Fridays and Saturdays and never had antisocial hours.
I'm hoping 2008-2009 will be more of the same and an improvement on what was a rather dreadful time for me last year and in all honesty the worst I have ever felt at University.
Then again if I finish a course on a year with an odd number at the end it's normally positive and forward looking and with 2009 being a Red Nose year it should be even more enjoyable.
I've still got the 2003 and 2005 ones on VHS and did have bits of the 2007 one on DVD although I think that disapeared after what happened later on in August.
The highlight of which being a special edition of Mitchell and Webb's "Numberwang" sketch with Carol Vorderman and Johnny Ball which I'd love the pair to have as an extra on one of their DVDs maybe.
I'm finding myself currently going through all my VHS's from late 2004-2005 when things really seemed to be going positive and the thought of starting University being very exciting.
Most of the things I've got are several music documentaries and comedy panel games along the lines of Have I Got News For You and Buzzcocks, as well as the finals of
Strictly Come Dancing and The X Factor.
It was also around the time of Band Aid 20 which was pretty exciting even if the record itself was rather naff although it does remind me of mucking about in college towards Christmas when a lecturer was absent whilst playing a load of Christmas tunes from my laptop.
This lead on to Live 8 in July 2005 which really was a happy time as I'd just finished the HND course and had two weeks off from ASDA around the time which felt special although I only worked on Fridays and Saturdays and never had antisocial hours.
I'm hoping 2008-2009 will be more of the same and an improvement on what was a rather dreadful time for me last year and in all honesty the worst I have ever felt at University.
Then again if I finish a course on a year with an odd number at the end it's normally positive and forward looking and with 2009 being a Red Nose year it should be even more enjoyable.
I've still got the 2003 and 2005 ones on VHS and did have bits of the 2007 one on DVD although I think that disapeared after what happened later on in August.
The highlight of which being a special edition of Mitchell and Webb's "Numberwang" sketch with Carol Vorderman and Johnny Ball which I'd love the pair to have as an extra on one of their DVDs maybe.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
More Than A Nervous Start
A few months ago a BBC film crew and some young actors came to our University to record a drama for BBC Switch called "Fresh" following students starting University where some of us took part as extras in a scene set at a freshers fayre.
They've now uploaded the first episode to the BBC website and hopefully the episode where I make a very brief appearance will be on there pretty soon.
Then again those who really stood out on that day were the likes of Miles dressed up as a judo instructor and Spike one of the radio students dressed up as a toadstool.
Hopefully it won't give anyone the wrong impression of the accomodation at Westminster University as it is a lot better than what the characters have to live in as shown above.
Ideally I'd love to have a bigger room in the premium towers in my final year although that would be wishful thinking. I'm certain that on a drunken night back from the Undercroft I may end up in there at some point with flat parties taking place in the early hours.
I'm sure one of the larger rooms I went into last year had a sofa in there which shows how those who get the bigger rooms really love to make good use of the opportunity.
They've now uploaded the first episode to the BBC website and hopefully the episode where I make a very brief appearance will be on there pretty soon.
Then again those who really stood out on that day were the likes of Miles dressed up as a judo instructor and Spike one of the radio students dressed up as a toadstool.
Hopefully it won't give anyone the wrong impression of the accomodation at Westminster University as it is a lot better than what the characters have to live in as shown above.
Ideally I'd love to have a bigger room in the premium towers in my final year although that would be wishful thinking. I'm certain that on a drunken night back from the Undercroft I may end up in there at some point with flat parties taking place in the early hours.
I'm sure one of the larger rooms I went into last year had a sofa in there which shows how those who get the bigger rooms really love to make good use of the opportunity.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
"The Way Of The World"
It's doubtful that I'll set foot in their Canterbury store again but it appears that ASDA have now made it possible to listen to their in-store station ASDA FM Live via their website allowing the enjoyment of shopping or in my case, the stress of working to enter their own homes.
Oddly enough when I had a brief listen earlier they were playing Earth Wind and Fire's
"Shining Star" although if inside a store it could easily be mistaken for Take That's
"Why Can't I Wake Up With You" which used a short snippet of the song in its intro.
On a similar note Trevor Nelson's back with his Soul Show on Radio 2 where so far they've had "Low Rider" by War, a song ruined by its use in advertisements for an rather revolting yeast product. I personally prefer Jah Wobble's version of the song as done on
Never Mind The Buzzcocks 10 years ago, supposedly performed on a drum kit with tourettes.
I didn't realise that EWF helped to produce Deniece William's album "This Is Niecy" featured on the show this week, although some of the tracks on there do have elements of the band's signature sound.
Here's hoping their new release scheduled for 2009 will live up to expectations if it is to be their last studio album.
Oddly enough when I had a brief listen earlier they were playing Earth Wind and Fire's
"Shining Star" although if inside a store it could easily be mistaken for Take That's
"Why Can't I Wake Up With You" which used a short snippet of the song in its intro.
On a similar note Trevor Nelson's back with his Soul Show on Radio 2 where so far they've had "Low Rider" by War, a song ruined by its use in advertisements for an rather revolting yeast product. I personally prefer Jah Wobble's version of the song as done on
Never Mind The Buzzcocks 10 years ago, supposedly performed on a drum kit with tourettes.
I didn't realise that EWF helped to produce Deniece William's album "This Is Niecy" featured on the show this week, although some of the tracks on there do have elements of the band's signature sound.
Here's hoping their new release scheduled for 2009 will live up to expectations if it is to be their last studio album.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
The Laughs Continue
A rather empty day again although there has been some good news on finding out that
"I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue" will be returning to the airwaves next year. They haven't announced who the chairman will be but I'm hoping that they adopt the method of rotating them reguarly as it will be difficult to find a permanent replacement for Humph.
In addition to that, BBC Four are showing a programme on Saturday recorded at one of the live shows performed just before Humphrey Lyttleton's death which will definitley be worth viewing and if I had the technology, Sky+ing.
Although I do have an idea of what it will look like having been to one of the recordings in Canterbury back in 1997 where Stephen Fry was the guest panellist.
I need to make more of an effort to go and see more radio shows and TV shows being recorded in the coming year, ideally something along the lines of "The Now Show". It would be ideal as some of the most enjoyable nights I've had whilst at University have been in the audience at recordings.
"I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue" will be returning to the airwaves next year. They haven't announced who the chairman will be but I'm hoping that they adopt the method of rotating them reguarly as it will be difficult to find a permanent replacement for Humph.
In addition to that, BBC Four are showing a programme on Saturday recorded at one of the live shows performed just before Humphrey Lyttleton's death which will definitley be worth viewing and if I had the technology, Sky+ing.
Although I do have an idea of what it will look like having been to one of the recordings in Canterbury back in 1997 where Stephen Fry was the guest panellist.
I need to make more of an effort to go and see more radio shows and TV shows being recorded in the coming year, ideally something along the lines of "The Now Show". It would be ideal as some of the most enjoyable nights I've had whilst at University have been in the audience at recordings.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Tony Blackburn's Worst Nightmare
Another interesting find in the form of Challenge Anneka from 1992 where Anneka's given 3 days to produce a tape of children's songs and verses performed by established performers in aid of a charity dealing with premature births.
Anneka along with Dave the soundman and the buggy manage to get hold of
George Martin, fresh from an appearance on the South Bank Show to oversee the entire project with those taking part including Joanna Lumley, Nannette Newman and her daughter Emma Forbes, Julia Fordham, Paul Nicholas performing "The Frog's Chorus", the underrated Beverley Craven to give a rendition of "Hush Little Baby" and the rather underused Phillip Schofield although in all fairness he was appearing in Joseph at the time.
Also appearing are Right Said Fred with Mike Read performing "My Old Man's A Dustman",
Sonia having to rush through a rendtion of "Who's Afraid of The Big Bad Wolf" and
an appearance from Herbie Flowers who composed and performed the bassline for
Lou Reed's "Walk On The Wildside" and to a lesser extent, Clive Dunn's "Grandad".
I happen to have one of the tracks included on the tape, that being Timmy Mallet's version of "The Laughing Policeman" as if the original version couldn't be bad enough.
Unsurprisingly Tony Blackburn wasn't one of those approached to record on the tape having spent the early 80s having to play many of those said tunes as part of Radio 1's Junior Choice much to his chagrin.
This from a man who considers Jane McDonald to be "sensational".
Anneka along with Dave the soundman and the buggy manage to get hold of
George Martin, fresh from an appearance on the South Bank Show to oversee the entire project with those taking part including Joanna Lumley, Nannette Newman and her daughter Emma Forbes, Julia Fordham, Paul Nicholas performing "The Frog's Chorus", the underrated Beverley Craven to give a rendition of "Hush Little Baby" and the rather underused Phillip Schofield although in all fairness he was appearing in Joseph at the time.
Also appearing are Right Said Fred with Mike Read performing "My Old Man's A Dustman",
Sonia having to rush through a rendtion of "Who's Afraid of The Big Bad Wolf" and
an appearance from Herbie Flowers who composed and performed the bassline for
Lou Reed's "Walk On The Wildside" and to a lesser extent, Clive Dunn's "Grandad".
I happen to have one of the tracks included on the tape, that being Timmy Mallet's version of "The Laughing Policeman" as if the original version couldn't be bad enough.
Unsurprisingly Tony Blackburn wasn't one of those approached to record on the tape having spent the early 80s having to play many of those said tunes as part of Radio 1's Junior Choice much to his chagrin.
This from a man who considers Jane McDonald to be "sensational".
Sunday, September 07, 2008
The Radio Rainbow
A long awaited return to the airwaves takes place in October with Jazz FM relaunching on DAB and on the many digital television platforms in the UK, with a very good line-up to match.
The presenters include Peter Young, Sarah Ward with Dinner Jazz and Mike Chadwick's Cutting Edge amongst others along with a selection of new shows on offer.
From the audio preview they've even brought back the David Arnold jingles from the late 90s/early 00s when the original station was at it's best as well as the chameleon logo which is also good news.
One of the main reasons I wanted to move to London was to be able to listen to the station and it's probably just as well that I'm going to be in London for one more year at University although the station is available in other parts of the country.
However I'm sure I'll enjoy listening to it in it's original birthplace and hopefully it won't end up going in the same route that the rather inferior sounding "TheJazz" ended up in.
It should be an interesting listen.
The presenters include Peter Young, Sarah Ward with Dinner Jazz and Mike Chadwick's Cutting Edge amongst others along with a selection of new shows on offer.
From the audio preview they've even brought back the David Arnold jingles from the late 90s/early 00s when the original station was at it's best as well as the chameleon logo which is also good news.
One of the main reasons I wanted to move to London was to be able to listen to the station and it's probably just as well that I'm going to be in London for one more year at University although the station is available in other parts of the country.
However I'm sure I'll enjoy listening to it in it's original birthplace and hopefully it won't end up going in the same route that the rather inferior sounding "TheJazz" ended up in.
It should be an interesting listen.
"God Will Forgive Them"
Mum and Dad downstairs have decided to decorate the dining room by hanging up a large map of East Kent of the wall, which I'm sure we had a very long time ago only it wasn't in a frame.
This immediately reminds me of my CD copy of the Invicta FM 1990 jingle package
which has a similar looking map of the entire county on the front cover and was sold to listeners from their Canterbury studios around the time when the station really was
at it's finest.
It's rather sad looking at how it's ended up in 18 years, now part of the "One Network" although here's hoping that when they reach 25 next year they'll find some way to celebrate.
Although with the apparent departure of long standing breakfast host James Heming
by the end of this year, it will be interesting to see how and if it all comes about.
Interestingly enough, one of their sister stations Marcher Sound in Chester celebrated their 25th anniversary on Friday with special shows hosted by Trev and Simon from
Going Live!, and Pat Sharp who oddly enough never presented for the station on its own.
Then again Pat worked for Radio Mercury around the same time who used an adapted set of jingles from David Arnold (not the film composer) based on those that Marcher Sound were using.
During my first year at University one of the posters I had in my room was one promoting the film "Dead Man's Shoes". I'm sure it would be ideal to bring it back with me for my final year although despite being spiteful, I'm hoping I don't go to as much extremes as Richard does in the film itself.
This immediately reminds me of my CD copy of the Invicta FM 1990 jingle package
which has a similar looking map of the entire county on the front cover and was sold to listeners from their Canterbury studios around the time when the station really was
at it's finest.
It's rather sad looking at how it's ended up in 18 years, now part of the "One Network" although here's hoping that when they reach 25 next year they'll find some way to celebrate.
Although with the apparent departure of long standing breakfast host James Heming
by the end of this year, it will be interesting to see how and if it all comes about.
Interestingly enough, one of their sister stations Marcher Sound in Chester celebrated their 25th anniversary on Friday with special shows hosted by Trev and Simon from
Going Live!, and Pat Sharp who oddly enough never presented for the station on its own.
Then again Pat worked for Radio Mercury around the same time who used an adapted set of jingles from David Arnold (not the film composer) based on those that Marcher Sound were using.
During my first year at University one of the posters I had in my room was one promoting the film "Dead Man's Shoes". I'm sure it would be ideal to bring it back with me for my final year although despite being spiteful, I'm hoping I don't go to as much extremes as Richard does in the film itself.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Disc Despatchments
There haven't been any flash floods near Canterbury although right now it's really throwing it down and being on the top floor of our house means that I can hear it as well.
That's something I probably won't get when I move back to halls as I've never been in a room on the top floor although at least it saves time taking things up when arriving and leaving.
I've started watching the third series of Peep Show from late 2005 where the second episode involves Mark and Jeremy sectioning their Canadian friend Merry after she sells a pub to Jeremy and Super Hans. I could definitely relate to the scenes inside the hospital although I'd like to think that things didn't get as juvenile as they did after Mark tries to give the consultant Merry's documents for selling the pub.
BBC Four are showing a documentary later tonight called "The Rise And Rise Of
The Disc Jockey" which I'm pretty certain was shown to us at the beginning of the Music Radio module of the course during the second year.
Of course the trade has evolved from the pirates in the 1960s to those who play records to packed crowds in fancy nightclubs although it's easy to forget that in the early days, the BBC didn't take to the concept of the presenter playing the records and operating the switches for quite a while, not least until the mid 1960s.
Nowadays it's impossible to see a disc in sight with many people and radio stations preferring to use digital mixers and playout packages.
That's something I probably won't get when I move back to halls as I've never been in a room on the top floor although at least it saves time taking things up when arriving and leaving.
I've started watching the third series of Peep Show from late 2005 where the second episode involves Mark and Jeremy sectioning their Canadian friend Merry after she sells a pub to Jeremy and Super Hans. I could definitely relate to the scenes inside the hospital although I'd like to think that things didn't get as juvenile as they did after Mark tries to give the consultant Merry's documents for selling the pub.
BBC Four are showing a documentary later tonight called "The Rise And Rise Of
The Disc Jockey" which I'm pretty certain was shown to us at the beginning of the Music Radio module of the course during the second year.
Of course the trade has evolved from the pirates in the 1960s to those who play records to packed crowds in fancy nightclubs although it's easy to forget that in the early days, the BBC didn't take to the concept of the presenter playing the records and operating the switches for quite a while, not least until the mid 1960s.
Nowadays it's impossible to see a disc in sight with many people and radio stations preferring to use digital mixers and playout packages.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Not The Most Welcoming Arrival
With a wet weekend approaching, it's fair to say that I doubt I'll be in a good mood even if the current series of Big Brother has come to an end.
It would be ideal to be put into the mind of those who will be starting at University this year, ideally those excited about it which I almost was to an extent although it took quite a while before I really got into the swing of things.
Then again there may be a few rather unsure about it all but I wouldn't like to be in the same position as one who isn't as outgoing which seems to be the case with more people who are arriving each year.
If I had arrived to start my degree last year I certainly would not be impressed by the University in terms of it's events and entertainment facilities, and I doubt I would been welcomed into Smoke Radio in the same way I was when Joey etc were running the station.
Although to be fair, the station really was in it's infancy despite sounding a lot more maturer with more prepared shows that didn't rely on Youtube videos to make up show content.
Then again the latter could be said about this blog with examples such as the final round from last night's Mock The Week with one of the subjects being "Things You Wouldn't Hear On The Radio".
Some of the suggestions are spot on including Andy Parson's dig at Heart, although the funniest ones are Frankie Boyle's "The Hugh Dennis Story" and Michael McIntyre's rather amusing suggestion for an episode of The Archers.
Hopefully when I do get back to London, my time will be a lot more fun than it has been over the last few months.
It would be ideal to be put into the mind of those who will be starting at University this year, ideally those excited about it which I almost was to an extent although it took quite a while before I really got into the swing of things.
Then again there may be a few rather unsure about it all but I wouldn't like to be in the same position as one who isn't as outgoing which seems to be the case with more people who are arriving each year.
If I had arrived to start my degree last year I certainly would not be impressed by the University in terms of it's events and entertainment facilities, and I doubt I would been welcomed into Smoke Radio in the same way I was when Joey etc were running the station.
Although to be fair, the station really was in it's infancy despite sounding a lot more maturer with more prepared shows that didn't rely on Youtube videos to make up show content.
Then again the latter could be said about this blog with examples such as the final round from last night's Mock The Week with one of the subjects being "Things You Wouldn't Hear On The Radio".
Some of the suggestions are spot on including Andy Parson's dig at Heart, although the funniest ones are Frankie Boyle's "The Hugh Dennis Story" and Michael McIntyre's rather amusing suggestion for an episode of The Archers.
Hopefully when I do get back to London, my time will be a lot more fun than it has been over the last few months.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Crudeness In Clay
With things barely improving outside, it will be hard to notice that Autumn has even started.
In my case however the last year has seemed like a long Autumn as things haven't really been enjoyable and I've felt more bitter than ever towards things during my time at University.
I did manage to find a few things earlier today that provided amusement such as this infamous episode of Pingu called "Little Accidents" where the penguin discovers
the side effects of drinking too many glasses when the toilet seat is too high to reach.
This was probably the most memorable episode of the popular pre-school series
in our house although it happened to be banned in other countries for it's rather visual content.
We used to own a BBC Radio Collection tape of Pingu stories read by Going Live's
Sarah Greene which drove Mum and Dad up the wall on car journeys, although unsurprisingly the above one wasn't one of those included.
There's also another one where Pingu is meant to be looking after an egg but would prefer to listen to his music, in this case a tune called "Woodpeckers From Space" by Dutch group "The Video Kids".
I've searched for this for quite a while on the internet although most of the episodes uploaded have a different, inferior soundtrack which happens to be "The Pingu Dance" allegedly performed by David Hasselhoff.
As mentioned before, certain tunes may not be timeless but unintentionally entertaining.
In my case however the last year has seemed like a long Autumn as things haven't really been enjoyable and I've felt more bitter than ever towards things during my time at University.
I did manage to find a few things earlier today that provided amusement such as this infamous episode of Pingu called "Little Accidents" where the penguin discovers
the side effects of drinking too many glasses when the toilet seat is too high to reach.
This was probably the most memorable episode of the popular pre-school series
in our house although it happened to be banned in other countries for it's rather visual content.
We used to own a BBC Radio Collection tape of Pingu stories read by Going Live's
Sarah Greene which drove Mum and Dad up the wall on car journeys, although unsurprisingly the above one wasn't one of those included.
There's also another one where Pingu is meant to be looking after an egg but would prefer to listen to his music, in this case a tune called "Woodpeckers From Space" by Dutch group "The Video Kids".
I've searched for this for quite a while on the internet although most of the episodes uploaded have a different, inferior soundtrack which happens to be "The Pingu Dance" allegedly performed by David Hasselhoff.
As mentioned before, certain tunes may not be timeless but unintentionally entertaining.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Suggestively Soulful
Trevor Nelson definitely has his work cut out hosting the 1Xtra Breakfast Show as well as his Saturday night show going out on that station as well as Radio 1 and still finds time to present a soul show on BBC Radio 2 which I listened to earlier tonight.
There were some good tunes on offer from the likes of The Whispers with a rare groover called "Imagination", and "We Gotta Have Peace" by Curtis Mayfield which Trevor played in response to Robinho leaving Chelsea for Man City.
There were also some e-mails from listeners regarding last week's chosen album
"Breakin' Away" by Al Jarreau which I've been listening to quite recently along with his other material and definitely has the familiar 80s soul/pop sound from
producer Jay Graydon who worked with George Benson around the same time.
Trevor questioned why those who had e-mailed said that they had the album on vinyl but don't have any decks to play it on which doesn't really make sense at all.
The show ended on a pretty low note for my liking with tracks by Kanye West,
and Norah Jones for goodness sake, but next week's show looks set to be pretty good
with tunes from brit funkers Central Line and Deniece William's album "This Is Niecy".
I'd definitely love to go to more places in London that play that type of music other than the DJ sets at the Jazz Cafe, although I'd imagine there's an age limit for over 25s which I'm dreading may get increased to over 30s before long.
There were some good tunes on offer from the likes of The Whispers with a rare groover called "Imagination", and "We Gotta Have Peace" by Curtis Mayfield which Trevor played in response to Robinho leaving Chelsea for Man City.
There were also some e-mails from listeners regarding last week's chosen album
"Breakin' Away" by Al Jarreau which I've been listening to quite recently along with his other material and definitely has the familiar 80s soul/pop sound from
producer Jay Graydon who worked with George Benson around the same time.
Trevor questioned why those who had e-mailed said that they had the album on vinyl but don't have any decks to play it on which doesn't really make sense at all.
The show ended on a pretty low note for my liking with tracks by Kanye West,
and Norah Jones for goodness sake, but next week's show looks set to be pretty good
with tunes from brit funkers Central Line and Deniece William's album "This Is Niecy".
I'd definitely love to go to more places in London that play that type of music other than the DJ sets at the Jazz Cafe, although I'd imagine there's an age limit for over 25s which I'm dreading may get increased to over 30s before long.
"I'll Give You The Benefit Of The Doubt"
A lesser successful example of radio transferring to television in the form of
"Just A Minute" as shown in the Carlton London region back in 1994.
Nicholas Parsons is present as the chairman along with contestants Tony Slattery,
Arthur Smith, a young Graham Norton playing the game for the first time and Ann Bryson who appeared in the CBBC sitcom "Spacevets" and on Channel 4's "SixThirtysomething"
in the early 90s along with Maria McErlane.
There are a few notable differences to the radio version, most notably the absence of
"The Minute Waltz" as the theme tune and one of the rounds being based not on a subject but on an unusual object.
Most of the subjects are very London related as the series as far as I remember was only broadcast in the Carlton/LWT region but it's not too bad overall even if it works better on radio.
The series also appeared on television for a second time in 1999 when BBC 1 tried it out in its daytime schedule where contestants included Ken Bruce, Su Pollard, Giles Brandreth and the late Linda Smith.
Oddly enough regular contestant Paul Merton never appeared in the television version of the show although they did incorporate the game into the proceedings when
Nicholas Parsons guest hosted "Have I Got News For You" in 2005.
The radio version of the programme is still going with Nicholas continuously denying that he patronises the contestants although he still gets his fair share of stick from the panel which still makes it one of the programmes on radio that I make sure I'm around to listen to.
"Just A Minute" as shown in the Carlton London region back in 1994.
Nicholas Parsons is present as the chairman along with contestants Tony Slattery,
Arthur Smith, a young Graham Norton playing the game for the first time and Ann Bryson who appeared in the CBBC sitcom "Spacevets" and on Channel 4's "SixThirtysomething"
in the early 90s along with Maria McErlane.
There are a few notable differences to the radio version, most notably the absence of
"The Minute Waltz" as the theme tune and one of the rounds being based not on a subject but on an unusual object.
Most of the subjects are very London related as the series as far as I remember was only broadcast in the Carlton/LWT region but it's not too bad overall even if it works better on radio.
The series also appeared on television for a second time in 1999 when BBC 1 tried it out in its daytime schedule where contestants included Ken Bruce, Su Pollard, Giles Brandreth and the late Linda Smith.
Oddly enough regular contestant Paul Merton never appeared in the television version of the show although they did incorporate the game into the proceedings when
Nicholas Parsons guest hosted "Have I Got News For You" in 2005.
The radio version of the programme is still going with Nicholas continuously denying that he patronises the contestants although he still gets his fair share of stick from the panel which still makes it one of the programmes on radio that I make sure I'm around to listen to.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
"One Loose Screw"
It hasn't really been much of an enjoyable day, although it's barely possible to get anything positive out of many things here in Canterbury.
Over the last few days however I've managed to find many vintage editions of Have I Got News For You on Youtube including a Thatcher Special from October 1993 shown as part of BBC 2's Thatcher Night. Paul Merton and Ian Hislop later referred to it as the worst show they had ever done as a result of guests Derek Hatton and Edwina Currie insulting each other although it looks as though not a lot of it made it into the final edit.
My personal highlight is the addition of a round called "The Quit-Ometer" where the panelists have to guess why a certain member of Mrs Thatcher's cabinet resigned.
This results in a rather embarassing attempt at a joke from Derek Hatton which happened to end up in the show again 13 years later.
Hopefully I'll get round to seeing a few more editions including from the same year, the show where Roy Hattersley was replaced by a Tub of Lard and yet still managed to win!
I may go to Morrisons tomorrow as we're short of wholemeal bread, and may also try to find some sugar free fizzy orange which isn't as nice as more expensive products but it results in it taking longer for a bottle to run out.
Over the last few days however I've managed to find many vintage editions of Have I Got News For You on Youtube including a Thatcher Special from October 1993 shown as part of BBC 2's Thatcher Night. Paul Merton and Ian Hislop later referred to it as the worst show they had ever done as a result of guests Derek Hatton and Edwina Currie insulting each other although it looks as though not a lot of it made it into the final edit.
My personal highlight is the addition of a round called "The Quit-Ometer" where the panelists have to guess why a certain member of Mrs Thatcher's cabinet resigned.
This results in a rather embarassing attempt at a joke from Derek Hatton which happened to end up in the show again 13 years later.
Hopefully I'll get round to seeing a few more editions including from the same year, the show where Roy Hattersley was replaced by a Tub of Lard and yet still managed to win!
I may go to Morrisons tomorrow as we're short of wholemeal bread, and may also try to find some sugar free fizzy orange which isn't as nice as more expensive products but it results in it taking longer for a bottle to run out.
Monday, September 01, 2008
Witty Literature
Entering Autumn and it hasn't really been too bad a day if a little bit chilly outside.
I'm nearing the end of the second series of Peep Show and may pace myself before starting the third series which was shown around the time I was in my first semster at University.
Although I had never really got into the series back then, I did recognise co-star
Olivia Colman as one of the presenters in the spoof science series "Look Around You" that was shown on BBC 2 in early 2005 and co-starred Peter Serafinowicz, as well as David Mitchell making an appearance in the final episode.
Nowadays it's impossible not to see him on television although that's not negative at all.
I understand that they're planning to release a book of "Scenes We'd Like To See" from Mock The Week which is an interesting idea although I doubt it will have the same charm as seeing the contestants doing it on the show itself with a buzzer going off between each one.
Especially on last week's show where Andy Parsons barely got a chance to do any jokes after offending Dara O'Briain with an anti-Irish gag.
They're probably going to run out of scenarios pretty soon.
I'm nearing the end of the second series of Peep Show and may pace myself before starting the third series which was shown around the time I was in my first semster at University.
Although I had never really got into the series back then, I did recognise co-star
Olivia Colman as one of the presenters in the spoof science series "Look Around You" that was shown on BBC 2 in early 2005 and co-starred Peter Serafinowicz, as well as David Mitchell making an appearance in the final episode.
Nowadays it's impossible not to see him on television although that's not negative at all.
I understand that they're planning to release a book of "Scenes We'd Like To See" from Mock The Week which is an interesting idea although I doubt it will have the same charm as seeing the contestants doing it on the show itself with a buzzer going off between each one.
Especially on last week's show where Andy Parsons barely got a chance to do any jokes after offending Dara O'Briain with an anti-Irish gag.
They're probably going to run out of scenarios pretty soon.
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