Yesterday afternoon I took Angus to Brumbies Rugby HQ so that both of us could learn about refereeing for juniors. It was a hoot. There were probably about 20 kids and 5 adults doing the training. Every second question from the kids was, “but can I send them off for that?” We have to now pass a written test before we get our refereeing ticket, whistle, uniform, white cane and guide dog. Alison, Angus and I are off to watch the Brumbies play tonight so I’m sure the refereeing will be under close scrutiny. On a side note, a young man that I used to teach is making his debut at Super 14 Rugby level – all the best Colby!!
Ironman Australia is on Sunday at Port Macquarie. There are 8 people from the Tridents club getting ready for a long day. 3.8km swim, 180km ride and 42km run. For all of you, I hope the journey is everything you want it to be.
I went back to an old Guns n’ Roses album this week. Great band, but unable to keep it together for a variety of reasons. I’d forgotten how much I liked this cover version. It is true to the energy of the original while injecting some serious hard rock attitude. Listen to whichever you like – or try both. This version has Matt Sorum on drums – he was previously in British goth-rockers The Cult. Do you think that the current trend for short shorts was influenced by Axl Rose?
Paul McCartney – Live and Let Die: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JK2hKzZss5Y
Guns n’ Roses – Live and Let Die: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDA2QpY6jUU
Enough of the metal flashbacks for this week. Here’s a really, really, really cool punk rock song. I like a lot of punk rock. In essence it is just folk music that is louder and faster! Punk was hijacked at one time by various white supremacist groups but, for the most part, the lyrics are related to social and political issues. I got into this next band as a result of television. They had a really good video for their song “21st Century Digital Boy” and that piqued my interest. You should be able to make out the lyrics on this great track:
Bad Religion – Punk Rock Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuAaPKF1eAU (bit of a language warning)
Bit of a switch now, how about these two awesome guitarists side by side? It must be great to be that laid back and sound so good!
Mark Knopfler and Eric Clapton – Layla: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQVvF0AeRLI
Unless you’ve been living under a rock in Canberra you can’t have missed the fact that there was a car crash that occurred just after a Police chase was called off that resulted in the deaths of three innocent people as well as the driver of the car being chased. Probably 15 minutes after the crash (well maybe a bit longer) we had the civil libertarians telling us that the Police shouldn’t chase anyone. Then we had the family and friends of the driver blaming the Police and painting a picture of “young blokes” as larrikins. Seriously, if you steal a car and then flee from the Police you have to know it isn’t going to end well. 24 is more than old enough to know better. Sigh. As for the civil libertarians – get a grip. The Police have a job to do. Would you rather no-one came if your car was stolen or your house burgled?
On a much happier note, here’s the song of the week. It’s cheesy and you may even cringe but it is such a catchy tune. I first remember hearing it in one of my favourite movies and I’ll include that clip first in case anyone out there hasn’t been bored to death by me with it yet! But then the song. Angus and I have been annoying the rest of the household by dancing around to this most mornings this week – doing our best impressions of Mike Myers. The dog gets very excited and does laps of the kitchen but then again his brain is about the size of a pea!
Movie clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItJ0V0YrWEE
Saturday Night – Bay City Rollers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rK6BjJaAjY (mp3 attached)
Bye for now,
DJ Rob
Friday, March 26, 2010
Friday, March 19, 2010
Song of the Week - Episode 82
Barack Obama you are a right royal pain in the rear end. First you’re coming to Australia with your family, then its only you, then the date might change, roads will or won’t close, the police are in uproar and it goes on. I’m glad you FINALLY made up your mind to stay at home to watch the NCAA and maybe sort out health care in your country at last. America may be a super power but really, stop treating one of your allies like a second class citizen, make a date and stick to it. We’re happy to see you but stay more than 24 hours – otherwise a video conference with KRudd should suffice and we can spend the millions of dollars saved on something worthwhile.
After that little rant we need a song. A loud song. I’m sure you can work out why I chose this one (language warning):
Green Day – The Grouch (live on Australian TV): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI2bIghoXdA
This week I’ve managed to drive to work almost in tandem with one of my very good friends a couple of times. A minor note to myself though, waving with one’s right hand whilst riding a motor scooter isn’t recommended! Anyway, DJ CoJ wanted me to know that he was listening to the Divinyls. What a GREAT Australian band. Tons of attitude, great songs and a guitar sound that is just overdriven enough to be cool without turning into noise. I chose this Divinyls song mainly because I really, really thought those headless guitars were super. I’ll get one someday…
Divinyls – Hey Little Boy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28_tDCbPhW4
I’ve got my final race of the season on Sunday. Dodgy blue-green algae means that the lake is still closed here in Canberra. As a result the Aquathon is being held in the pool at the Institute of Sport. It should be a mad splash and dash with 3km run / 400m swim / 1.5km run. After that there’s a break in training for a while. I have to plan something for that time otherwise I’ll go nuts as will my family. I’m thinking that some mountain biking and geocahing will make a good start. After all, when training goes back I’ll have just over 6 months until Ironman. Whilst I didn’t do a lot of racing this season I managed to get a lot more consistency into my training (my main goal) and I reckon that’ll serve me well on the road to Busselton Dec 2010.
I mentioned Alicia Keys in last week’s episode. I’ll happily admit that until the last couple of weeks I hadn’t listened to any of her songs at all. But I’m all about trying out new music. This next track is from her current album. I put it through the wringer on the iPod this week whilst running and this is the stand out in my opinion. Whilst the lyrics aren’t all that crash hot, it is a great sounding track with an almost industrial feel to the instrumentation. Do you think she’s channeling the Phantom in that purple suit?
Alicia Keys – Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRMOvWYwQuU
In choosing a song to feature every week I aim for variety and to encourage people to listen beyond their favourite artists and songs. I will admit that I have refrained from featuring some tracks that are obviously offensive and that might never have any kind of general appeal. But then, some tracks that are less than accessible are my favourites. One of my all time top bands are Canberra Death Metal band, “Armoured Angel”. Their particular brand of very loud and aggressive music dealt with such themes as religion and genetic engineering. Intelligent and well thought out lyrics in the main backed up with a powerful musical style but you have to look past the leather, long hair and ammo belt guitar straps. I like folk music too, often you get similar themes. Country and Western, when not clichéd, has some great tracks – you could spend a lifetime with Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson.
So, a track that might confront and one that I know not all of you will like, but that’s sort of the point.
Tom Paxton - George W. Told The Nation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ft36GQMmvXs
If you want to bear arms then wear a short sleeve shirt.
DJ Rob
After that little rant we need a song. A loud song. I’m sure you can work out why I chose this one (language warning):
Green Day – The Grouch (live on Australian TV): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI2bIghoXdA
This week I’ve managed to drive to work almost in tandem with one of my very good friends a couple of times. A minor note to myself though, waving with one’s right hand whilst riding a motor scooter isn’t recommended! Anyway, DJ CoJ wanted me to know that he was listening to the Divinyls. What a GREAT Australian band. Tons of attitude, great songs and a guitar sound that is just overdriven enough to be cool without turning into noise. I chose this Divinyls song mainly because I really, really thought those headless guitars were super. I’ll get one someday…
Divinyls – Hey Little Boy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28_tDCbPhW4
I’ve got my final race of the season on Sunday. Dodgy blue-green algae means that the lake is still closed here in Canberra. As a result the Aquathon is being held in the pool at the Institute of Sport. It should be a mad splash and dash with 3km run / 400m swim / 1.5km run. After that there’s a break in training for a while. I have to plan something for that time otherwise I’ll go nuts as will my family. I’m thinking that some mountain biking and geocahing will make a good start. After all, when training goes back I’ll have just over 6 months until Ironman. Whilst I didn’t do a lot of racing this season I managed to get a lot more consistency into my training (my main goal) and I reckon that’ll serve me well on the road to Busselton Dec 2010.
I mentioned Alicia Keys in last week’s episode. I’ll happily admit that until the last couple of weeks I hadn’t listened to any of her songs at all. But I’m all about trying out new music. This next track is from her current album. I put it through the wringer on the iPod this week whilst running and this is the stand out in my opinion. Whilst the lyrics aren’t all that crash hot, it is a great sounding track with an almost industrial feel to the instrumentation. Do you think she’s channeling the Phantom in that purple suit?
Alicia Keys – Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRMOvWYwQuU
In choosing a song to feature every week I aim for variety and to encourage people to listen beyond their favourite artists and songs. I will admit that I have refrained from featuring some tracks that are obviously offensive and that might never have any kind of general appeal. But then, some tracks that are less than accessible are my favourites. One of my all time top bands are Canberra Death Metal band, “Armoured Angel”. Their particular brand of very loud and aggressive music dealt with such themes as religion and genetic engineering. Intelligent and well thought out lyrics in the main backed up with a powerful musical style but you have to look past the leather, long hair and ammo belt guitar straps. I like folk music too, often you get similar themes. Country and Western, when not clichéd, has some great tracks – you could spend a lifetime with Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson.
So, a track that might confront and one that I know not all of you will like, but that’s sort of the point.
Tom Paxton - George W. Told The Nation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ft36GQMmvXs
If you want to bear arms then wear a short sleeve shirt.
DJ Rob
Friday, March 12, 2010
Song of the Week - Episode 81
For a short week here in Canberra (Monday was a public holiday) it seems to have taken forever to get to Friday!
The triathlon club had a 3 day bike camp over the weekend. Pretty challenging for all involved on a number of levels. I have to look after my knees so I went out for the Sunday ride which everyone says is the hardest. Basically it is a 43km climb from Jindabyne to Charlotte’s Pass. A 21km run around the top there and a 43km descent back home. Well, it wasn’t the best day in terms of weather but apart from that it was a lot of fun. Driving rain and wind made the whole day ‘interesting’. The climb was fine for me. I stopped three times on the way up for a quick stretch and that seemed to keep everyone entertained. 2hrs and 25 minutes (900m of elevation) of climbing got me to the start of the run. Unfortunately the weather was pretty foul so the run had to be cut short – I was sent for a 40 minute trot – wearing as many clothes as I could! After that, and a honey sandwich (secret nutritional weapon!) I headed back down the hill wearing even more gear. It was still raining and the roads were slippery so I will admit I was very conservative. However, there were a few climbs on the way home that I truly don’t remember from going the opposite way! My only bad moment was a puncture about 1500m from the end. After a couple of swear words I changed the tube and got home in time for a coffee and a jam donut! Great fun really, I’m hoping I can convince my knees to do two days next time. The social aspect of riding and training with a large group made that ride a lot easier and I’m thankful for the support of those organising the weekend as well as those cycling with me.
I took the opportunity on the drive to and from Jindabyne to check out some new tunes (well they were new to me) and a couple rate a mention in this week’s missive.
Bob Marley – I’m not really sure why I chose to listen to him but I’m glad I did. I put on the album “Uprising” which is from 1980. For me it is a pretty consistent LP and the production is great. The classic Marley drum introductions are crisp and clear. My favourite Bon Marley song of all time is on this LP – “Redemption Song”. This version is just Bob and a guitar. I admit that I hadn’t paid too much attention to the lyrics before but my interpretation is that Bob wants people to realise that freedom and happiness are perhaps looking forward more than redemption songs which look to the past. Of course, I could be totally wrong. Decide for yourself:
Bob Marley – Redemption Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-wyPaS6bZc
I also took time to listen to a band called Muse. They have a new album out called “The Resistance” and I read somewhere that they were a great rock band so I took a chance on them. Wow. I really, really like this LP. People compare them to Radiohead but I can’t see why. Radiohead never fail to annoy me with their constant droning or to put me to sleep. The first song on the Muse album was like a double shot espresso – kaboom. I reckon it sounds like a magnificent mutant mix of Marilyn Manson, Blondie and the theme from the Dr. Who TV show. It is a pretty groovy clip as well – love the teddy bears at the end.
Muse – Uprising: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8KQmps-Sog
DJ GarE sent me some tunes to check out last week and I’m working my way through them. Here’s a gem from times past that I’m glad he reminded me of. There’s a version of Tori Amos doing this song too – best avoided in my opinion – cringeworthy.
Joe Jackson – Real Men: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41FNXkY9VZY
I listened the new album by Alicia Keys as well. I only chose that because in one of his songs, Bob Dylan sings about looking for her. The jury is out on whether it is worth the purchase price so I’ll get back to you on that one. There is no doubt that she can sing and the album is very polished….but is there any substance to it? Dunno yet.
Some of my favourite sayings come from songs. For example, I often describe things as being “super fab and groovy” which is straight from a Nik Kershaw song. Or “that isn’t phat, it’s morbidly obese” from The Twelfth Man. This week’s song has a line that I often find myself thinking if not saying: “well I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, you get nothin’ for nothin’ expecting win”. Rock on.
Judas Priest – Heading Out To The Highway: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54FrsBA1ki8
How absolutely fabulous were the hairstyles and costumes in that blast from 1982!!? Red leather pants – hooray! If you need a laugh then just look on YouTube for the original video for that song.
In about 1986 or 1987 I was in K-Mart with my Mum. Back in the day, K-Mart was a good place to go to buy music – a solid selection and usually the best prices. On this particular day there was a 2 for 1 deal on certain cassettes. I picked up “British Steel” and “Killing Machine” both by Judas Priest probably for about $10. A bargain indeed – they both turned out to be great albums. I always thought the album covers were pretty cool as well. Here they are: British Steel: http://www.metalkingdom.net/album/img/d37/386.jpg and Killing Machine: http://www.progboard.com/graphx/covers/7114.jpg
There is a movie with Mark Wahlberg in it (Rock Star) that is apparently based on Judas Priest and some of the stories are very Spinal Tap-esque. But JP are a great band, and one that has endured some interesting times including the whole PMRC/Tipper Gore mess of the 80s/90s. A lot of my friends were metal and hard rock fans. I’m pretty sure that none of us were or became Satan worshipping, blood drinking, misogynists. Of course, I liked Judas Priest as well because they were a metal band whose singer had short hair! He now has very little – not unlike your truly!
On a parting note – on Sunday I’m participating in “Amy’s Ride”. Amy Gillett was an Australian cyclist killed whilst training in Europe. The foundation set up in her name does great work in promoting safe cycling and understanding between motorists and cyclists. Please check out the information at http://www.amygillett.org.au/ . The ride is a fundraiser and to raise awareness of the cause. I know that at least 600 riders will be out there at this stage.
Ride clean, ride safe, ride often, ride with a helmet on, ride with friends, just ride….
DJ Rob
The triathlon club had a 3 day bike camp over the weekend. Pretty challenging for all involved on a number of levels. I have to look after my knees so I went out for the Sunday ride which everyone says is the hardest. Basically it is a 43km climb from Jindabyne to Charlotte’s Pass. A 21km run around the top there and a 43km descent back home. Well, it wasn’t the best day in terms of weather but apart from that it was a lot of fun. Driving rain and wind made the whole day ‘interesting’. The climb was fine for me. I stopped three times on the way up for a quick stretch and that seemed to keep everyone entertained. 2hrs and 25 minutes (900m of elevation) of climbing got me to the start of the run. Unfortunately the weather was pretty foul so the run had to be cut short – I was sent for a 40 minute trot – wearing as many clothes as I could! After that, and a honey sandwich (secret nutritional weapon!) I headed back down the hill wearing even more gear. It was still raining and the roads were slippery so I will admit I was very conservative. However, there were a few climbs on the way home that I truly don’t remember from going the opposite way! My only bad moment was a puncture about 1500m from the end. After a couple of swear words I changed the tube and got home in time for a coffee and a jam donut! Great fun really, I’m hoping I can convince my knees to do two days next time. The social aspect of riding and training with a large group made that ride a lot easier and I’m thankful for the support of those organising the weekend as well as those cycling with me.
I took the opportunity on the drive to and from Jindabyne to check out some new tunes (well they were new to me) and a couple rate a mention in this week’s missive.
Bob Marley – I’m not really sure why I chose to listen to him but I’m glad I did. I put on the album “Uprising” which is from 1980. For me it is a pretty consistent LP and the production is great. The classic Marley drum introductions are crisp and clear. My favourite Bon Marley song of all time is on this LP – “Redemption Song”. This version is just Bob and a guitar. I admit that I hadn’t paid too much attention to the lyrics before but my interpretation is that Bob wants people to realise that freedom and happiness are perhaps looking forward more than redemption songs which look to the past. Of course, I could be totally wrong. Decide for yourself:
Bob Marley – Redemption Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-wyPaS6bZc
I also took time to listen to a band called Muse. They have a new album out called “The Resistance” and I read somewhere that they were a great rock band so I took a chance on them. Wow. I really, really like this LP. People compare them to Radiohead but I can’t see why. Radiohead never fail to annoy me with their constant droning or to put me to sleep. The first song on the Muse album was like a double shot espresso – kaboom. I reckon it sounds like a magnificent mutant mix of Marilyn Manson, Blondie and the theme from the Dr. Who TV show. It is a pretty groovy clip as well – love the teddy bears at the end.
Muse – Uprising: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8KQmps-Sog
DJ GarE sent me some tunes to check out last week and I’m working my way through them. Here’s a gem from times past that I’m glad he reminded me of. There’s a version of Tori Amos doing this song too – best avoided in my opinion – cringeworthy.
Joe Jackson – Real Men: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41FNXkY9VZY
I listened the new album by Alicia Keys as well. I only chose that because in one of his songs, Bob Dylan sings about looking for her. The jury is out on whether it is worth the purchase price so I’ll get back to you on that one. There is no doubt that she can sing and the album is very polished….but is there any substance to it? Dunno yet.
Some of my favourite sayings come from songs. For example, I often describe things as being “super fab and groovy” which is straight from a Nik Kershaw song. Or “that isn’t phat, it’s morbidly obese” from The Twelfth Man. This week’s song has a line that I often find myself thinking if not saying: “well I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, you get nothin’ for nothin’ expecting win”. Rock on.
Judas Priest – Heading Out To The Highway: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54FrsBA1ki8
How absolutely fabulous were the hairstyles and costumes in that blast from 1982!!? Red leather pants – hooray! If you need a laugh then just look on YouTube for the original video for that song.
In about 1986 or 1987 I was in K-Mart with my Mum. Back in the day, K-Mart was a good place to go to buy music – a solid selection and usually the best prices. On this particular day there was a 2 for 1 deal on certain cassettes. I picked up “British Steel” and “Killing Machine” both by Judas Priest probably for about $10. A bargain indeed – they both turned out to be great albums. I always thought the album covers were pretty cool as well. Here they are: British Steel: http://www.metalkingdom.net/album/img/d37/386.jpg and Killing Machine: http://www.progboard.com/graphx/covers/7114.jpg
There is a movie with Mark Wahlberg in it (Rock Star) that is apparently based on Judas Priest and some of the stories are very Spinal Tap-esque. But JP are a great band, and one that has endured some interesting times including the whole PMRC/Tipper Gore mess of the 80s/90s. A lot of my friends were metal and hard rock fans. I’m pretty sure that none of us were or became Satan worshipping, blood drinking, misogynists. Of course, I liked Judas Priest as well because they were a metal band whose singer had short hair! He now has very little – not unlike your truly!
On a parting note – on Sunday I’m participating in “Amy’s Ride”. Amy Gillett was an Australian cyclist killed whilst training in Europe. The foundation set up in her name does great work in promoting safe cycling and understanding between motorists and cyclists. Please check out the information at http://www.amygillett.org.au/ . The ride is a fundraiser and to raise awareness of the cause. I know that at least 600 riders will be out there at this stage.
Ride clean, ride safe, ride often, ride with a helmet on, ride with friends, just ride….
DJ Rob
Friday, March 5, 2010
Song of the Week - Episode 80
I was in the CD shop the other day (well I still call it a record shop) and I saw that there is yet another version of Queen’s greatest hits available. Who is buying this? Some bands just seem to get away with repackaging their “Best Of” over and over. KISS is guilty of this as well. I think Queen were an awesome band but who are they kidding?
Thanks to DJ Jo-T I can’t get this next song out of my head. A band I was in back in the day used to do a decent cover version of it and I always liked the lyrics as well. Maybe this week’s songs should be about boats even if this song isn’t really very nautical.
Nick Cave – The Ship Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKlaV-9Vzsk
And I can’t really tell you why but Nick Cave led me this Paul Kelly track. (there’s a language warning for the following song)
Paul Kelly – Every F****** City: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwl7tthqzkA
Well it seems like this is turning to an all Australian affair on Song of the Week but the boats have sailed away. I’m pretty sure that I haven’t claimed any New Zealanders as our own yet although that it not unusual. In that case then I better play something a bit more obscure.
The Candy Harlots were a glam/sleaze metal rock from Sydney. I saw them once or twice in the 90’s and they had almost everything going for them at that stage. Good songs, record deal, fans…. However, it didn’t last. This is one of the singles from their album and, like many bands of this genre, they seem to be able to look into the kind of problems they have but in the end can’t overcome them.
The Candy Harlots – Sister’s Crazy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyZa0aC1Jqk
Time to steal from NZ now. Dragon were a band from both sides of the Tasman. I don’t really care where they are from but they were classic. Alison and I got prepaid tickets to see them years ago at the Yass Soldiers Club. We were worried we might not get in. I think there were more people in the band and crew that night than were in the crowd a huge shame as it was a great show. This was not long before Marc Hunter died from cancer – a big loss to rock ‘n’ roll. Here’s a version of Dragon’s “Dreams of Ordinary Men” with Peter Garrett and Jimmy Barnes singing. Turn this one up (I reckon Peter was pretty pleased when Jimmy turned up to give him a hand!) For you overseas readers, Peter sang for Midnight Oil and is now a government minister (well – for the moment at least).
Peter Garrett and Jimmy Barnes – Dreams of Ordinary Men: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klM5ERfTwz8
It’s a long weekend here and I plan to spend some time finishing a song I’ve been working on. If I’m feeling brave it might get an airing here for your comments. I’m also heading to the high country for a hell of a ride/run session on Sunday. Ride from Jindabyne to Charlotte’s Pass, run 21km around the Pass and then ride back. I imagine this will take pretty much all day and the weather forecast is average at best!
Eat less, move more…
DJ Rob
Thanks to DJ Jo-T I can’t get this next song out of my head. A band I was in back in the day used to do a decent cover version of it and I always liked the lyrics as well. Maybe this week’s songs should be about boats even if this song isn’t really very nautical.
Nick Cave – The Ship Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKlaV-9Vzsk
And I can’t really tell you why but Nick Cave led me this Paul Kelly track. (there’s a language warning for the following song)
Paul Kelly – Every F****** City: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwl7tthqzkA
Well it seems like this is turning to an all Australian affair on Song of the Week but the boats have sailed away. I’m pretty sure that I haven’t claimed any New Zealanders as our own yet although that it not unusual. In that case then I better play something a bit more obscure.
The Candy Harlots were a glam/sleaze metal rock from Sydney. I saw them once or twice in the 90’s and they had almost everything going for them at that stage. Good songs, record deal, fans…. However, it didn’t last. This is one of the singles from their album and, like many bands of this genre, they seem to be able to look into the kind of problems they have but in the end can’t overcome them.
The Candy Harlots – Sister’s Crazy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyZa0aC1Jqk
Time to steal from NZ now. Dragon were a band from both sides of the Tasman. I don’t really care where they are from but they were classic. Alison and I got prepaid tickets to see them years ago at the Yass Soldiers Club. We were worried we might not get in. I think there were more people in the band and crew that night than were in the crowd a huge shame as it was a great show. This was not long before Marc Hunter died from cancer – a big loss to rock ‘n’ roll. Here’s a version of Dragon’s “Dreams of Ordinary Men” with Peter Garrett and Jimmy Barnes singing. Turn this one up (I reckon Peter was pretty pleased when Jimmy turned up to give him a hand!) For you overseas readers, Peter sang for Midnight Oil and is now a government minister (well – for the moment at least).
Peter Garrett and Jimmy Barnes – Dreams of Ordinary Men: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klM5ERfTwz8
It’s a long weekend here and I plan to spend some time finishing a song I’ve been working on. If I’m feeling brave it might get an airing here for your comments. I’m also heading to the high country for a hell of a ride/run session on Sunday. Ride from Jindabyne to Charlotte’s Pass, run 21km around the Pass and then ride back. I imagine this will take pretty much all day and the weather forecast is average at best!
Eat less, move more…
DJ Rob
Friday, February 26, 2010
Song of the Week - Episode 79
Oh my, what a week. Huge, unexpected and awesome news…there’s a new Johnny Cash album!! Well it was exciting to me. “American VI: Ain’t No Grave” is a collection of songs recorded not long before Cash’s death. That makes many of the tracks rather haunting and confronting. YouTube hasn’t caught up with the new album yet but I’ll be passing on a couple of tracks to you all as soon as they appear.
George Thorogood turned 60 on Thursday. A great guitarist and entertainer. One of the bands I was in played his song “If you don’t start drinking I’m gonna leave”. Apparently it got him in hot water with some politically correct folks but it was all tongue in cheek as is a lot of rock ‘n’ roll. This track coming up is my favourite from George and his band the Delaware Destroyers:
George Thorogood – Get A Haircut (and get a real job): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iHFA31l1uY
In the 90’s I really liked this next band. A fantastic fusion of colour, rock, soul and social conscience. Their song “Open Letter to a Landlord” addressed the issue of neigbourhoods being torn down and the effect it has on communities. The song I’ve chosen is a bit cheerier though, and I will admit it wasn’t until I read the tape cover that I realised they weren’t singing “Grammar Boys” – talk about misheard lyrics!
Living Color – Glamour Boys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU0XYT38jpc
I might pause here and just say that the Winter Olympics have been almost totally ruined by our local broadcaster. What a joke. Repeat after repeat of the same thing, inane and ill-informed commentary and whole sections of the games ignored. I could get into whether or not Figure Skating is a sport but that seems secondary when the coverage of the whole event is so pitiful.
Earlier in the week I was very, very angry. The reasons are unimportant now but this song came around on the iPod and really gave me a kick in the pants. For fans of loud and aggressive music only perhaps. I reckon they were pretty cross when they wrote this one (the lyrics are on the right hand side in YouTube for this track):
Soulfly – Blood, Fire, War, Hate: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHOSjT8gQXY
The reintroduction of fluorescent colours into fashion has made me chuckle. The Best Man at our wedding was such a big fan that people at work called him “Fluoro”. I guess the 80’s and 90’s are back. That might not all be good but I caught myself singing this track the other day and it fits right in with that period of time. A good time song from when I was a lot younger ;-) I love the funky wah-wah guitar and the string section. This really is a toe tapper.
Vic Reeves and The Wonderstuff – Dizzy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy-v7np4iGM
Never give up….
DJ Rob
George Thorogood turned 60 on Thursday. A great guitarist and entertainer. One of the bands I was in played his song “If you don’t start drinking I’m gonna leave”. Apparently it got him in hot water with some politically correct folks but it was all tongue in cheek as is a lot of rock ‘n’ roll. This track coming up is my favourite from George and his band the Delaware Destroyers:
George Thorogood – Get A Haircut (and get a real job): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iHFA31l1uY
In the 90’s I really liked this next band. A fantastic fusion of colour, rock, soul and social conscience. Their song “Open Letter to a Landlord” addressed the issue of neigbourhoods being torn down and the effect it has on communities. The song I’ve chosen is a bit cheerier though, and I will admit it wasn’t until I read the tape cover that I realised they weren’t singing “Grammar Boys” – talk about misheard lyrics!
Living Color – Glamour Boys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU0XYT38jpc
I might pause here and just say that the Winter Olympics have been almost totally ruined by our local broadcaster. What a joke. Repeat after repeat of the same thing, inane and ill-informed commentary and whole sections of the games ignored. I could get into whether or not Figure Skating is a sport but that seems secondary when the coverage of the whole event is so pitiful.
Earlier in the week I was very, very angry. The reasons are unimportant now but this song came around on the iPod and really gave me a kick in the pants. For fans of loud and aggressive music only perhaps. I reckon they were pretty cross when they wrote this one (the lyrics are on the right hand side in YouTube for this track):
Soulfly – Blood, Fire, War, Hate: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHOSjT8gQXY
The reintroduction of fluorescent colours into fashion has made me chuckle. The Best Man at our wedding was such a big fan that people at work called him “Fluoro”. I guess the 80’s and 90’s are back. That might not all be good but I caught myself singing this track the other day and it fits right in with that period of time. A good time song from when I was a lot younger ;-) I love the funky wah-wah guitar and the string section. This really is a toe tapper.
Vic Reeves and The Wonderstuff – Dizzy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy-v7np4iGM
Never give up….
DJ Rob
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Rob is cross...
What gets up your nose? Your index finger probably! But apart from that, everyone has pet hates. Usually they just bubble away under the surface - you live with them and get on with life, but sometimes, well, you can't hold them in any longer.
Xenophobia. I hate that. That's the fear of foreigners. It also mutates into intolerance, racism and bigotry. People who are immigrants are the natural target of the bigot. Do you really expect someone from another country to be exactly the same as you? If you are born somewhere else, speak a different language and have your own religious views then of course you might seem a little different to an outsider. Of course, I fully support the idea that if you want to live somewhere then you should make an effort to learn the language.
America, Australia, Canada and many other countries have original inhabitants that were there a long time before those countries were settled by immigrants. Did we stop speaking English? Did we ignore all the traditions and cultures of our original countries? Did we adopt new religions? I don't think so.
Let me say, however, that illegal immigration is a completely separate and complex topic. Maybe I'll rant about that one another day. The line between being a humanitarian and just throwing open the border gate is blurry at best.
Religion quite often gets right up my nose as well. I can make my own decision thanks very much. Don't knock on my door selling your particular brand of faith with your kids and parents in tow. I'll be polite because it is the right thing to do but really, that is something I find offensive. I have many friends who are religious and I respect that. They made their decision, and although I just don't get it, I'm happy for them to get on with it. I have some good friends who all have a strong faith. I can have rigorous discussion with them about religion and none of them see me as an outreach opportunity. I like that.
Lastly, on a slightly lighter note, "The Biggest Loser" really pushes my buttons. There is no way that any of them got that fat without significant effort. It takes a lot of TV, cakes and pies. So, why should we glorify them? I am always impressed when someone makes an effort to lose some weight or make their lifestyle more healthy - that's great. But making it into a TV event is just wrong. Anyone can lose weight if they train all day and are forced to eat the right things. But life isn't about that. For everyone else, being healthy is a choice and something that needs to become part of your daily routine, not a spectator sport. I like the Billy Connolly diet - so simple, but for most people, quite effective; "eat less, move more".
So, those are my views. Of course, yours could and probably should vary. As long as you had a bit of a think then that's cool. If you skipped to the end looking for a song that's fine as well. Self-censorship is an important part of living in the digital age.
It would be unlike me to leave you all without a piece of music. This track was one of the first of my songs of the week and is never deleted from the iPod. Listen to the lyrics, they have a LOT to say.
The Proclaimers - Scotland's Story (live) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y67ZTTRzqVk
Lastly, if for some reason Craig and Charlie Reid (The Proclaimers) stumble across this post then it really is time for a live album - please??
That's it. Rant off.
Comrade Rob ;-)
Xenophobia. I hate that. That's the fear of foreigners. It also mutates into intolerance, racism and bigotry. People who are immigrants are the natural target of the bigot. Do you really expect someone from another country to be exactly the same as you? If you are born somewhere else, speak a different language and have your own religious views then of course you might seem a little different to an outsider. Of course, I fully support the idea that if you want to live somewhere then you should make an effort to learn the language.
America, Australia, Canada and many other countries have original inhabitants that were there a long time before those countries were settled by immigrants. Did we stop speaking English? Did we ignore all the traditions and cultures of our original countries? Did we adopt new religions? I don't think so.
Let me say, however, that illegal immigration is a completely separate and complex topic. Maybe I'll rant about that one another day. The line between being a humanitarian and just throwing open the border gate is blurry at best.
Religion quite often gets right up my nose as well. I can make my own decision thanks very much. Don't knock on my door selling your particular brand of faith with your kids and parents in tow. I'll be polite because it is the right thing to do but really, that is something I find offensive. I have many friends who are religious and I respect that. They made their decision, and although I just don't get it, I'm happy for them to get on with it. I have some good friends who all have a strong faith. I can have rigorous discussion with them about religion and none of them see me as an outreach opportunity. I like that.
Lastly, on a slightly lighter note, "The Biggest Loser" really pushes my buttons. There is no way that any of them got that fat without significant effort. It takes a lot of TV, cakes and pies. So, why should we glorify them? I am always impressed when someone makes an effort to lose some weight or make their lifestyle more healthy - that's great. But making it into a TV event is just wrong. Anyone can lose weight if they train all day and are forced to eat the right things. But life isn't about that. For everyone else, being healthy is a choice and something that needs to become part of your daily routine, not a spectator sport. I like the Billy Connolly diet - so simple, but for most people, quite effective; "eat less, move more".
So, those are my views. Of course, yours could and probably should vary. As long as you had a bit of a think then that's cool. If you skipped to the end looking for a song that's fine as well. Self-censorship is an important part of living in the digital age.
It would be unlike me to leave you all without a piece of music. This track was one of the first of my songs of the week and is never deleted from the iPod. Listen to the lyrics, they have a LOT to say.
The Proclaimers - Scotland's Story (live) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y67ZTTRzqVk
Lastly, if for some reason Craig and Charlie Reid (The Proclaimers) stumble across this post then it really is time for a live album - please??
That's it. Rant off.
Comrade Rob ;-)
Friday, February 19, 2010
Song of the Week - Episode 78
How are you? “We ain’t got no baseball, no baseball tonight. We ain’t got no football, they’re on strike. What we have got for you is a bit of what’s happening in London at the moment. So will you welcome, all the way from Ladbroke Grove, London W10, The Clash!”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuhmpusCef8
That was, obviously, The Clash. Their song, Police and Thieves, Live at Shea Stadium. The first piece of text is the intro to the concert which is spoken by Kosmo Vinyl. I love it, an even better introduction than that which KISS always have; “You wanted the best, you got the best, the hottest band in the world, KISS!”.
I was really a very casual Clash fan until I heard that live album sometime last year. Superb, so much better live.
There have been songs written about the Police for a very long time. I’ll just play you a couple this week.
Back in my uni days I wrote and produced a radio documentary for an assignment. It was about music, geography, fear and America. This song made an appearance:
Public Enemy – 911’s A Joke: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ-ldcnhsLY
I tried to meet Flavour Flav and Chuck D from Public Enemy in Brisbane years ago but crowds of young white boys pretending to be gangsters kept me at bay.
This next track is a plea to a policeman and the sound of someone hoping for a little good luck. Written by a guy who is a great storyteller. You can track down a great version by Steve Earle but this is the original. The story goes that Bruce recorded the whole album on a four track in a hotel room.
Bruce Springsteen - State Trooper: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rA5XxF0Zh38
Can I introduce something new here? Something off-topic? Well of course I can, it’s my blog! Julie Fowlis is a Scots singer from the Outer Hebrides. I heard about her yesterday and checked out some songs. She sings in Gaelic. Regardless of that, her voice is just great. I’ve chosen something from her today that is pretty accessible but if you like it then try some of the suggested links on YouTube.
Julie Fowlis – Blackbird (Beatles cover) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgTgledCjOI
Back to the Police, and songs about them. This is one of my absolute favourite songs of all time. It is tragic, funny, coarse, honest and thought provoking – at least to me. By the master himself.
Johnny Cash – Cocaine Blues: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq344ks1ieg
Avagoogweegend.
DJ Rob
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuhmpusCef8
That was, obviously, The Clash. Their song, Police and Thieves, Live at Shea Stadium. The first piece of text is the intro to the concert which is spoken by Kosmo Vinyl. I love it, an even better introduction than that which KISS always have; “You wanted the best, you got the best, the hottest band in the world, KISS!”.
I was really a very casual Clash fan until I heard that live album sometime last year. Superb, so much better live.
There have been songs written about the Police for a very long time. I’ll just play you a couple this week.
Back in my uni days I wrote and produced a radio documentary for an assignment. It was about music, geography, fear and America. This song made an appearance:
Public Enemy – 911’s A Joke: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ-ldcnhsLY
I tried to meet Flavour Flav and Chuck D from Public Enemy in Brisbane years ago but crowds of young white boys pretending to be gangsters kept me at bay.
This next track is a plea to a policeman and the sound of someone hoping for a little good luck. Written by a guy who is a great storyteller. You can track down a great version by Steve Earle but this is the original. The story goes that Bruce recorded the whole album on a four track in a hotel room.
Bruce Springsteen - State Trooper: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rA5XxF0Zh38
Can I introduce something new here? Something off-topic? Well of course I can, it’s my blog! Julie Fowlis is a Scots singer from the Outer Hebrides. I heard about her yesterday and checked out some songs. She sings in Gaelic. Regardless of that, her voice is just great. I’ve chosen something from her today that is pretty accessible but if you like it then try some of the suggested links on YouTube.
Julie Fowlis – Blackbird (Beatles cover) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgTgledCjOI
Back to the Police, and songs about them. This is one of my absolute favourite songs of all time. It is tragic, funny, coarse, honest and thought provoking – at least to me. By the master himself.
Johnny Cash – Cocaine Blues: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq344ks1ieg
Avagoogweegend.
DJ Rob
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