World Wide Woozle episode #502

Hi everyone and welcome back. I've got loads of music to share and a tale or two to tell as well.

First of all - the virus. I've just turned off the news as it's all too much just now. I get it, it's serious so I'm staying at home as much as I can and I don't think I've ever washed my hands this much. Sit tight folks, ignore all the sensationalist news and do what you can to make things better for those around you even if that is staying away. Angus has returned from Canada. He lost his job when the ski resort shut its doors as a result of the pandemic. Currently he's in 14 days of isolation at Alison's place along with Sooky and Sparky. It's certainly not what anyone would want to do but can you imagine being the person that disregarded the advice and passed the illness on to others? I'll get a hug from him in just over 11 days. Meanwhile, in London, Zoe is working as hard as ever as a paramedic. The rest of the place is in lockdown so she can go to work and to the supermarket and that's it. What a baptism of fire! She certainly manages to get herself into interesting situations. 5 years ago we were in the midst of her being unaccounted for following Tropical Cyclone Pam.

Let's get to some music. Domestically there are two releases I'd like to tell you about and encourage you to listen to. Firstly, from Sydney, melodic heavy metal band Darker Half have released an album. You might remember that I saw them in support of the Geoff Tate show back in January. Anyway, it's well worth a listen if you like metal with vocals well sung and intelligible!

Darker Half - Falling - https://youtu.be/Bs5IKLVp6Vs

I've written about The Chats before and they've released a long player called High Risk Behaviour. If you like punk music such as Frenzal Rhomb then this is going to be for you. It's crude, it's rough but it has a distinctly Australian flavour and it's a lot of fun. 14 songs and it comes in at less than 30 minutes!

The Chats - Drunk n Disorderly - https://youtu.be/vJtuS4JwMRE

Of course the Billy Bragg shows that my brother and I were due to attend in New Zealand in late May have been postponed. For a year. Will we be going anywhere in twelve months - who knows? The other day, to ease the pain of not seeing Billy, I worked my way through two of his boxsets and it was a treat. There's a reason that he remains one of my favourite performers. A man, a guitar and a big sound all by himself. This song seems appropriate.

Billy Bragg - Between The Wars (live) - https://youtu.be/xjUA3RU4B8E

Work has been interesting recently. Like a lot of people I have been stood down indefinitely. The War Memorial closed its doors to visitors almost a week ago in response to the pandemic. As a casual employee that of course leaves many of us high and dry. We did get a fortnight's pay based on our roster which was unexpected and very welcome. Hopefully I'll have some positive employment news to share with you next time...but nothing moves quickly especially given the current climate.

Uncanny X Men - Work - https://youtu.be/2XYo5zaPw-4

There are plenty of artists that I don't really like listening to. Years ago I tried an Alicia Keys album and it was pretty quickly relegated to the, "only if I have to" pile. Well, well, well...I heard the next tune on the radio during the week and it had me nodding and tapping along. Then the DJ back-announced it as being by Alicia. So, here it is...I'm yet to listen to the album that it's from but this is a mighty fine track. Do you reckon Bob Dylan has tracked her down yet?

Alicia Keys - Underdog - https://youtu.be/izyZLKIWGiA

Still on the radio...the national youth broadcaster, Triple J, plays a live show at least weekly as part of their Live At The Wireless series. They've been doing it long enough that I have cassettes recorded from their broadcasts of gigs by The Ramones, silverchair, AC/DC, Baby Animals and The Living End. The show that I heard was going really well with almost rockabilly guitars, strong vocals and a punky metal edge. It was the band called My Chemical Romance. Goodness me...I'd always thought that they were some kind of screamo wannabe Goth band. Seems I was wrong. It's more Good Charlotte meets The Ramones with some Green Day and Oasis thrown in.

My Chemical Romance - Teenagers - https://youtu.be/k6EQAOmJrbw

DJ Doc along with DJ HongKongRollins alerted me to the new ZZ Top documentary on Netflix. For anyone who's a fan it's great viewing. If you don't know much about the band then give it a whirl. There's plenty of archival footage, great songs and in depth stuff from all three band members. Music docos can be a little tedious but this one has been made with a good sense of humour. My only gripe is that there is a lot more to ZZ Top AFTER the Eliminator album in 1983.

ZZ Top - Chartreuse - https://youtu.be/uTjgZEapJb8

ZZ Top - I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide - https://youtu.be/gWttL4gs078

I read a really interesting article from the BBC this week that was all about Simon and Garfunkel and their song, Bridge Over Troubled Water. It was a fascinating insight into the background of what became a hugely popular song at a time when the group was all but finished. Read it here and you might get a whole new appreciation for the tune.

Simon and Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water (live 1980) - https://youtu.be/WrcwRt6J32o

We're almost at the end folks. You can do it....hang on! Next up is Mel C who you may remember from a cool duet with Bryan Adams or her time in a little band called The Spice Girls.

Mel has a new single out now and I listened to it, I'll admit, out of curiosity more than anything else. What I discovered was a catchy electro-pop tune with a great video and some poignant lyrics. It's not what I expected but it's cool. If she releases an album I'd definitely listen to it.

Melanie C - That's Who I Am - https://youtu.be/Fzk44YbqOz0

Last up this week are Def Leppard. They've just released an early years boxset which includes remastered versions (at last) of their first two albums along with a book, a couple of live shows, demos, b-sides and probably the kitchen sink too. From the track listing and early reviews this is a well put together compilation. The tracks are out there on Spotify already and a physical copy will be winging its way to HQ Woozle before too long. What's evident from the early live recordings is how well the band sang live. Plenty of groups sound good on record but at a gig you wonder what's gone wrong. That's not the case here.

Def Leppard - Hello America (live, 1979) - https://youtu.be/tiZCEsBnr1I

That's it for this time folks. Stay at home and wash your hands. And if you're not sure how social distancing works then check out this very cool video from Vanuatu's "Won Smolbag" Theatre group. They use theatre all over the country to help get various messages across. They are speaking in Bislama which is the Pidgin language used in Vanuatu; that's the language that Zoe and I speak to our families there.

Keep smiling,

Rob

"Nobody told me there'd be days like these....most peculiar Mama..."

Nobody Told Me, John Lennon, recorded 1980, released 1984.

World Wide Woozle episode #501

When I was younger, 501 was a number synonymous with Levi's jeans. 501s, with their comfy fit and button fly, were the epitome of cool. These were the jeans that you asked anyone who was going to the USA if they'd bring you a pair back. Super groovy and I never had a pair.

Dr. Hook - Baby Makes Her Blue Jeans Talk - https://youtu.be/HCu7LHBrwEc

Recently I watched a documentary about KISS. It was put together by a guy who is a fan and it was so good that I watched a second episode. Here's a link to part 1 (the early years) and part 2 (the much maligned 80s). With any luck he'll get around to producing one about the 90s and beyond. It was interesting to hear that Dynasty and Unmasked were the start of a popularity decline for KISS in the USA. Certainly, in New Zealand and Australia this wasn't the case. I've gone back and listened to both records this week and whilst they both have their moments, I like Unmasked better.

KISS - Is That You? - https://youtu.be/xuNGAFekaR0

I was relieved to hear that Zoe had avoided attending a stabbing during her first day working as a paramedic. She's pretty good at sparing me gory details too as I'm not good with that sort of thing. I'm also not sure I needed to know that she was off to visit the morgue this week. Dead centre of town.

Iron Maiden - Murders in the Rue Morgue - https://youtu.be/RaZRQT8WNOA

Other big news is that Angus will be winging his way home sometime next month. Just as well, his dog needs a bath and its Angus' turn. I'm wondering how many winters in a row is possible for one person.

The Fauves - Dogs Are The Best People - https://youtu.be/lxM7sLT0rQE

I was listening to a whole lot of Triple J material and came across this great cover of Art vs Science's song, Parlez Vous Francais?, by Sydney musician Mickey Kojak. See what you think. I gave it quite a few listens before disappearing into some of his other music. 

Mickey Kojak - Parlez Vous Francais? - https://youtu.be/Bjc1ngNcAsE

Even more local is my next track. One of the artists is one of Angus' school mates. I knew he was working on playing music and its great to hear that he has got around to recording and releasing some. Not necessarily my normal kind of track to listen to but I have to admit that it's pretty catchy.

YNG one & YNG Martyr - Casket Dreaming - https://youtu.be/q8TRYdVhAZ8

This is probably old news to a lot of you but there was a Wiggles tribute album released a while ago now. I'd forgotten all about it until the next song popped up on YouTube. Great band, great song, great cover. Ready, set, Wiggle!

The Living End - Hot Potato - https://youtu.be/ZIqmVqmMcGw

Chuck Prophet is an American singer songwriter that I only got into a few years ago. His 2017 album, Bobby Fuller Died For Your Sins, is well worth your time. It's one of those rare long players with not a dud track to be found. Anyway, Chuck has a new album coming soon and as a result a new single and accompanying video. Nice socks; my mate Vaughan would be proud.

Chuck Prophet - Marathon - https://youtu.be/J4QAZI0QXQU

That'll do. For those following along, my swimming is improving and its certainly been good for my back. Maybe 45 minutes of stretching and core work done six days a week for a year is finally also having an effect. I had my first day of no back pain in 13 months the other day....and it's still going.

Anyway, that's all folks. Have a good weekend, leave some toilet paper in the stores for me and if all else fails cuddle a dog, but don't kiss it.

Mamak,

Rob

"All for freedom and for pleasure
Nothing ever lasts forever
Everybody wants to rule the world"

Tears for Fears, Everybody Wants To Rule The World, 1985

World Wide Woozle episode #500

500 is a lot of episodes. Even though I've slowed down my output in the last few years I'm still rather taken aback that I've sat down and written that many editions. What started as a small email list has grown into a blog and something that's been part of my life since 2008. Thank you everyone for humouring me for all this time. That being said, it's on with the show.

40 years ago today (February 20, 1980) the AC/DC singer, Bon Scott, died in London. I wasn't old enough to be aware of this at the time but the impact on the world of rock music remains significant. As a teen opening my ears and mind to different types of music, Bon and AC/DC quickly became my favourite band and they remain so to this day. Video footage of Bon Scott playing live reveals a man with a huge personality, a cheeky smile and the desire to entertain. He had a level of charisma that few singers can match in my opinion. It's a bit of a moot point to wonder what the band would've gone on to do if he hadn't died. I prefer to remember his legacy and to be thankful that there is plenty of recorded material to listen to and enjoy. 

AC/DC - Fling Thing / Rocker (live Glasgow, 1978) - https://youtu.be/ASJy3c4ACiU

I was listening to AC/DC all day today via Spotify (my CDs are all packed away in boxes for now). I must admit that it's disconcerting to have albums listed there with tracks in the "wrong" order. The US and UK releases are different enough pre-1978 to make them sound a bit weird. Anyway, the songs are all still there and it didn't take me long to put them into playlists in the order they were originally released here in Australia.

Last week at work one of my colleagues was playing the album that the next track is from. It's easy these days with overblown multimedia concert presentations to forget how good a live band U2 were (they probably still are). The album Live Under A Blood Red Sky has always been one I've enjoyed. If you do search out a hard copy then spend the time getting an original pressing rather than the re-released one...they are different. It's only one track but it made a difference to me as I certainly noticed the omission of Bono singing an excerpt from Send In The Clowns. Regardless, it's a great live album.

U2 - Gloria (live Red Rocks, 1983) - https://youtu.be/yohnJNx8M3g

DJ DJ and I headed to The Manning Bar at the University of Sydney a couple of weeks ago so see Geoff Tate and his band play. This was the 30th Anniversary show as a tribute to the album, Operation: Mindcrime, that Geoff recorded as a member of the American progressive metal band, Queensryche. Firstly, Sydney was rather warm and brutally humid. After a rather mind expanding visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art in the afternoon we walked about 5 minutes from our accomodation to the gig. There were two support bands, Temptris and Darker Half. I always try and turn up for the support bands as I have some insight into what a difficult job it can be, Temptris played first and their brand of melodic heavy metal was well suited to supporting Tate. Vocalist, Genevieve has a very powerful voice with a great range. It was clear that she's spent plenty of time working on it as it didn't waiver through the whole set. I really enjoyed this band and would definitely go and see them again. They had plenty of guitar histrionics, a solid rhythm section and decent songs. Temptris also had great crowd support. More about the crowd later. Darker Half were interesting; a bit of a cross between Dio and Dragonforce. They were let down by a very slow changeover between bands. Temptris had warmed everyone up well but that energy could only last so long. When Darker Half did get started they were obviously well rehearsed and had a vocalist who improved greatly as the gig went on. When he hit his straps later in the set it was great. So often I hear metal bands who all play well but the vocals are the weak link. This was not the case with either support band. Look, the truth is I really wanted to like Darker Half but there was something just not clicking for me. They sounded great and on CD I think I'd be pretty happy, but visually they were a bit all over the place. They just didn't look like they were a band. It's hard to put my finger on but some of them looked like they should have been playing in any metal band whilst a couple were dressed for the pub. It's a small thing but it just niggled.

Temptris - Run - https://youtu.be/lCMymgNtFi8

Darker Half - Aliens Exist - https://youtu.be/IiBkGenXiXs

Geoff Tate had a band of young guys none of who would've been born when Operation: Mindcrime was released. Nevertheless, they were really, really, really good. The guitars and bass sounded and felt great and the drummer was all hair and arms moving at a million miles per hour. Importantly for this show, the backing vocals were also of high quality. Geoff Tate's voice is pretty good considering his age. He couldn't hit all the high notes but for the most part it didn't matter. What he did show though, was a genuine joy at being there, interacting with the crowd, and rocking out. It was great to see him work so hard and get so much love back from the crowd. Now; the crowd. Metal crowds are predominantly made up of men wearing black t-shirts who like very loud and often aggressive music. Let me say this however, if you're in the crowd, regardless of your sex, colour, size or anything else; you're part of the event. This gig reminded me how very cool metalheads are to one another. I had an in-depth conversation with the guy standing next to me (who I had never met) all about music and the support bands since he knew a lot about them. It was cool. All in all it was a great gig and I was pretty lucky to get to spend some time with one of my oldest friends into the bargain.

Queensryche - Revolution Calling - https://youtu.be/CNdOsL4Xe7Q

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit have a new single now available. The album that it comes from will hit the shelves and streaming services on May 15 which seems a very long time to wait. I've been listening to Jason's music quite a lot lately. He has the great talent of making each song sound as if he's singing about himself.

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit - Be Afraid - https://youtu.be/HPek7jto9l0

John Moreland has a voice that makes me want to keep listening. Add to that his guitar work and songwriting prowess and I'm shocked that he isn't a bigger name. NPR describes John's style as "singer-songwriter-confessional". That seems about right. Thanks to Karen for alerting me to his new record. It's on the playlist right now.

John Moreland - East October - https://youtu.be/CJ5_2YrFZWk

In what's big news for me, I'm getting back into swimming. After swimming a LOT as a kid and then even more for years as a triathlete I gave it away around 7 years ago. The time is right though and tomorrow I'm sure my cyclist's chicken arms will wonder what I'm trying to do to them! I imagine that I won't be starting with a 4000m session.

KISS - Shock Me (live 1977) - https://youtu.be/Ldj8pzd0RAs

I was reminded, watching last week's gig by K4L, how much I like Bruce Springsteen's 2007 album, Magic. As a result I went on a bit of a YouTube expedition looking for live versions of some tracks from it. As chance would have it, I stumbled across this next version which is a cover. However, it's a ripper right down to the singer getting the accent right which I assume is no mean feat if English isn't your first language. Anyway, this is a cool song and I hope you'll indulge me given that it isn't actually Bruce.

Cover Me - Girls In Their Summer Clothes (live 2018) - https://youtu.be/gjckGtLkJmw

Last week I played some guitar with my friend Ken who sings really, really well. He puts my guitar work to shame. Anyway, it might develop into a gig sometime soon; fingers crossed. I'm busy getting calluses back on my fingertips and trying to remember how to play a whole heap of songs whilst learning some new ones. This might get a run. Some of you may know the Johnny Cash version but this is the original.

Tom Paxton - Can't Help But Wonder Where I'm Bound - https://youtu.be/e2OnQ0ANO5Q

Well there you go. 500 episodes done and dusted. I think I'll keep going for a while longer. Originally the emails only had one song in them. Let's finish this time with the first song I shared with what was an unsuspecting audience.

Billy Bragg - Walk Away Renee (version) - https://youtu.be/WQFubJdJGbc

Rock on brothers and sisters, and thank you.

Rob

"Just let me hide my weary heart in you
My old friend the blues." , My Old Friend The Blues,Steve Earle, 1986.

World Wide Woozle episode #499

Welcome back listeners. This episode is coming to you on what is the Australia Day public holiday so the content will all be music from this great southern land.

There are times to take yourself seriously and then there are times when you really need a laugh. Queensland punk band, The Chats, are hilarious. The haircuts, the lyrics, the low budget clips and their sense of humour all combine for uncomplicated music that you can mosh to and laugh at. If you're old like me and you remember bands like Frenzal Rhomb then this is for you. There's toilet humour in this one so don't bother if you're easily offended.

The Chats - The Clap - https://youtu.be/POM_98oi0oo

Cold Chisel are a fantastic and iconic Australian band. And while the power of Jimmy's voice and the soaring lines of Ian's guitar are fantastic, the using hero is keyboard player and songwriter, Don Walker. Don is the guy who wrote Flame Trees, Khe Sanh, Goodbye (Astrid Goodbye), Saturday Night and Cheap Wine (among others). He's also an accomplished solo artist. I was lucky enough, along with my mate DJ Plooky, to see Don play in Canberra in this next band. 

Tex, Don and Charlie - A Man In Conflict With Nature - https://youtu.be/2fIXxvhYP8A

The Preatures remain one of my favourite Australian acts. They have a great live show and a range of catchy tunes. This one's a slower tune but I really like the electric piano sound combined with Izzy's voice. When I saw them live she played this song solo which was good as we all needed a moment to catch our breath!

The Preatures - Your Fan - https://youtu.be/2fIXxvhYP8A

Year ago someone gave me some music from Byron Bay band, Parkway Drive. At the time i wasn't really into it. Maybe I thought it was a bit shouty and lacking in melody. Fast forward to now and I just heard a live version of the next tune which is great. I'm enthused now to go back and revisit their back catalogue. This doesn't sound unlike Volbeat so if you happen to like them, or just metal with a bit of melody mixed up in the aggression then give this a spin.

Parkway Drive - Void - https://youtu.be/cAY2bCmm8e0

VIka and Linda Bull are world class singers. They've been part of The Black Sorrows in the past as well as appearing on solo recordings and as backing singers for a number of very well known acts. This is from their 1994 album and the song was written by Mark Seymour...we'll get to him in a minute...

Vika and Linda Bull - When Will You Fall For Me? - https://youtu.be/MOgxx7WAGog

Mark Seymour was in a rather well known band called Hunters and Collectors. How can I describe the band? Rhythmic, industrial tinged, Australian pub rock? That'd be underselling them. I remember reading a book about the group and finding out that they took every decision on a consensus basis. No wonder there was internal turmoil! Regardless, there are quite a few Hunters songs that have what I would call an Australian sound. Hard to put your finger on maybe but it's dust, sticky pub carpet and good times all rolled up together.

Hunters and Collectors - Say Goodbye - https://youtu.be/8pp6hniAKHw

I clearly remember hearing silverchair for the first time. They'd just won a demo competition run by radio Triple J and success was theirs almost immediately. I was lucky enough to see them live very early on in their career at a gig in Adelaide. As you all know, silverchair went on to make it big all over the world. 

silverchair - Israel's Son - https://youtu.be/k2d6iwOSAfQ

Rock music doesn't need to be complicated. Since the blues had a baby called rock and roll simple yet catchy songs have made us smile, dance and tap our toes. The Cockroaches had the winning formula down pat in the 80s. 

The Cockroaches - She's The One - https://youtu.be/XoYgINT2Bac

Of course, my favourite Australian band is also my favourite band full stop. Rumours still abound about a new album and a tour but until I hear it from the horse's mouth I won't believe it. Rock and roll royalty folks....

AC/DC - Let There Be Rock - https://youtu.be/3f2g4RMfhS0

The last song this week came in at #9 on the Triple J Hottest 100 broadcast on 25 January. I chose it for a number of reasons. Firstly, I'd heard a lot of my younger work colleagues singing it. Secondly its the highest ranking song in the Hottest 100 that I actually like. And lastly, the lyrics man...the lyrics.

Thelma Plum - Better in Blak - https://youtu.be/ExMjEwymQ3A

There you go folks, a far from definitive Australian collection but hopefully an eclectic enough mix to keep you interested. What passes for normal programming will resume next time around when I will report back from seeing Geoff Tate play in Sydney. 

Right - I'm out of here - the bike won't ride itself...

Rock on

Rob

World Wide Woozle episode# 498

Today was the day. DJ ZedBoots flew off into the wide blue yonder, bound for London and the start of her career as a paramedic. It's an interesting feeling to be happy and sad all at once. I had a bit of a peaceful trundle on my bike to allow it all to seep in. I'm very, very proud of what she's achieved. A big shout out to all those who have supported her along the way, and continue to do so.

The Beatles - Hello, Goodbye - https://youtu.be/rblYSKz_VnI

As a result of listening to a podcast I've been checking out to a lot of early to mid-80s heavy metal that I missed out on. It's clear that many of them were influences on other bands that I enjoy so it's been a bit of a treat. If metal is your thing then you could do a lot worse than having a listen to Andy Dowling's podcast series, Nod To The Old School.

Sodom - Nuclear Winter -  https://youtu.be/86rzZHLSjfQ

I like bagpipes, I guess it's in my blood. Recently I've been listening to a fair bit of music that features not only Scottish pipes but a range of other types. They pop up in all sorts of music. Nightwish use them quite a bit to great effect. The ones in this tune are Irish Uilleann pipes. Uilleann is the Irish word for elbow and these pipes are played by moving a bellows with your elbow rather than blowing into them. They have a much smoother sound than Scottish pipes.

Nightwish - I Want My Tears Back - https://youtu.be/fV2C9_MAJ0E

A while ago I played you some music by New Zealand metal band, Alien Weaponry, who sometimes sing in Maori. This time I want to play you a track from Shepherd's Reign, who sing this one in the Samoan language. They are a bit more melodic than Alien Weaponry but the language still fits the sound very well. Having a sound a bit like Sepultura seems to work well and they are definitely a band to keep an eye on.

Shepherd's Reign - Le Manu - https://youtu.be/BSNb1LXXk40

Puddles Pity Party has a new song available. I really like this guy. His ability to reinterpret a song, keep a straight face and not blink is all rather special. And man oh man, he can sing. This isn't his best song but that's me being super-critical; it's still quality stuff.

Puddles Pity Party - I Want To Know What Love Is - https://youtu.be/_fJmbcIS-ZI

DJ SlimRollins put me onto Blondie's 2017 album which is called Pollinator. Well, well, well....what a revelation. I was unsure what to expect but it's one of the best complete albums I've heard in a long time. There are plenty of nods to their classic stuff without simply being a tribute to all their old hits. The production is excellent and this is a slick performance all round. If you can't hear Heart of Glass in this next one then clean your ears out.

Blondie - Long Time - https://youtu.be/1-nqMvrk3hA

And finally....this was on in the car today and it never fails to make me smile. I saw the musical on stage a very long time ago in Wellington (New Zealand) and I'd go and see it again any day of the week.

Ipi Ntombi Cast Recording - Shosholoza - https://youtu.be/6k2HVHyHI9E

Come back again next time as I discuss some of the following: eyebrows, Def Leppard, bikes and possibly employment as well. Or none of the above.

Rob

"No, his mind is not for rent
To any god or government
Always hopeful, yet discontent
He knows changes aren't permanent
But change is..." , Tom Sawyer, Rush, 1976. (RIP Neil)

World Wide Woozle #497

If you're not interested in a bit of a rant then you should avoid the next bit. Also if you think that the Daily Telegraph or commercial television (in general) constitutes real news, the the same applies.

It's hard to think about music at the moment. In fact, it's hard to think about anything other than the fact that Australia is burning. Not just a few fires but massive out of control blazes taking out an area bigger than Belgium. Or, for American readers; the area so far burnt is that of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. And it's still growing. We've seen communities only able to take refuge in the water at beaches, the biggest peacetime evacuations in Australian history, deaths, property loss and so much more. The scale of this disaster is hard to comprehend. It dominates the news, social media and the talk in the lunch room at work. Here in Canberra we have the worst air quality for a major city anywhere in the world and it's not going away anytime soon. People once obsessed with Facebook and Instagram now spend their time checking air quality and fire reports. Laying blame for this isn't all that complicated. Successive generations have refused to take serious action to address what causes climate change. Politicians on both sides of the major political ideologies have denied and obfuscated for decades and now we suffer. Everyone suffers. This isn't a problem that can be fixed tomorrow; it needed to be addressed years ago and some brave decisions made but they weren't. So do we allow our politicians, emboldened by a hysterical media and funded by those who play a major part in destroying our habitat to continue in this way? No. We need to change the way that our leaders interact. They are out of touch if they think that this is ok. If the Leader of the Opposition continues to lead with, "I wrote to the Prime Minister...." Stop writing to him. You work in the same building. Talk to him or at least pick up the phone. And if the other members of the Liberal and National Parties can't recognise the giant mess that the PM is making of the whole situation then they should all be voted out. Seriously, it's a complete farce that highlights the fact that our political system is broken. As for the uninformed people trying to blame The Greens for causing the fires by not allowing hazard reduction; three or four minutes reading (again, not the Telegraph) will reveal that this is a complete lie.

Everywhere we look we're overloaded with the fires. it's horrific, it's sad and it should make you angry. But you need to remember to look after yourself and those around you even in small ways. If you aren't directly involved then turn the TV off for a little while. There are a ton of good ways to help out in terms of donations of money or goods. So many people are doing great things and these help both the givers and the receivers. 

I'll admit that I'm struggling with the impact of the fires. As well as the news barrage, the fact that Canberra is almost continually blanketed in thick smoke is tough to deal with. My bike sits neglected at the door, our dogs yearn for a walk and everyone is stuck inside. Again, this is nothing compared to those in fire areas but you live your life where you are. Instead of being a downer, I'm going to play a few specially selected tracks this time around. These are the songs that I turn to when I'm not feeling great. The ones that make me smile or think of good things, people and places. I'll tell you a little about each one. If you're with me on Facebook then please feel free to share a song back with me that you find uplifting....and it doesn't have to be the Mormon Tabernacle Choir! You can comment on the blog too.

In 1984 I was fortunate enough to go to the 14th Australian Scout Jamboree outside Sydney. It was a long journey from country Victoria in a bus that broke down in Albury! At the Jamboree we built bikes and raced them, flew a light plane, went ziplining, got wet and muddy and generally had a great time being kids. The Jamboree had its own radio station and they took requests. My Patrol had this as our unofficial theme song and I'm sure the people running the radio station got tired of our constant requests for it...

Hoodoo Gurus - Like Wow, Wipeout! - https://youtu.be/vFnaNPGe4gQ

Queen was one of the first rock bands that I couldn't get enough of even though I only had their Greatest Hits LP. When "A Kind of Magic" was released it cemented my place as a fan. Funnily enough though, I go to this tune a lot and it isn't on either release. I like this one because it has the most awesome guitar riff. There's a great version of Def Leppard playing it at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert as well. A real foot stomper and never fails to put a grin on my face.

Queen - Now I'm Here (live 1975) - https://youtu.be/uvOuRt_BiRI

Like a lot of people I imagine, I grew up thinking that Blondie were a disco band as a result of their song, "Heart of Glass". I remember having my little mind blown when I discovered their other work and the fact that it was as much punk as it was anything else. Blondie were (are) truly unique. I like this song particularly because if you listen past the pop sounds you can imagine the Ramones singing it too. At least I can. The driving rhythm and the three chord verse is pure punk. Bands like Blink 182, Green Day and The Dollyrots can surely trace their sound back to Blondie as much as The Clash or The Ramones.

Blondie - Denis (live) - https://youtu.be/ZtlnNaTBrUI

"My Island Home" was written about an Indigenous Australian man living in the desert and missing his home on an island in Arnhem Land. It's a great track, admirably covered by Christine Anu, that's quintessentially Australian. During my first visit to Vanuatu it became clear that the people there had adopted it as well. It makes sense and as a Warumpi Band song and as one so loved by my home away from home it always makes me happy.

Warumpi Band - My Island Home - https://youtu.be/yZEodxUx2ME

Billy's reddest song I guess. This one is from what's probably his least popular album but I love it all the same. The original version of this song is from the 19th Century and Billy has updated it a bit as you'll soon see (click here to hear Billy talk about it). I learned about Socialism and Communism at university whilst studying politics. As a result I understand how both have been warped by many people around the world for their own nefarious purposes. My personal ideals of people being equal regardless of gender, colour or background were often at odds with many of my peers and the music of Billy Bragg and the good bits of socialism had a profound effect on me. In Vanuatu, one of my grandfathers told me that he liked me because I understood that all blood was red. That'll do me. Read the lyrics folks.

Billy Bragg - The Internationale - https://youtu.be/yAw0Ri4FSdM

ABBA? Yep....great band. They've got it all: terrific vocals, harmonies, pop, rock and a lot of energy. The synth line at the very start of this song chugs along like any number of heavy metal guitarists. I remember playing in a band years ago and throwing that into a song to see if anyone noticed ha ha! I like ABBA best when they are rocking out and this is one of the best examples. For those unconvinced maybe have a look at this live version.

ABBA - Does Your Mother Know That You're Out -  https://youtu.be/WkL7Fkigfn8

A throwback to my childhood up next. My Mum loved this song and still does. I remember that the b-side of the single was just the backing track! Wham were huge when I was in high school and playing them on the radio station at lunchtimes was always popular. Other than that it's just a great song with a good beat and again, it makes me smile.

Wham - Wake Me Up (Before You Go Go) - https://youtu.be/pIgZ7gMze7A

I'd never heard of Talking Heads until 1987 or 1988. A friend, with a broader tape collection than me (and a big boombox), played their "Little Creatures" album to me whilst we worked at a Scout Camp over Easter. This song has stuck with me ever since. I like the idea of listening to the highway breath!

Talking Heads - And She Was - https://youtu.be/cl3B_FTDKD0

Finally, in terms of songs that make me feel better, is this one from The Proclaimers. It's from 2018 and I know that some of you continue to be shocked that the band are still putting out records. Well, they are and they're full of great tunes. This one has the effect of making me homesick for a town that isn't my home and that I have no memory of visiting. It's an amazing thing to be able to write a song that evokes such strong emotions.

The Proclaimers - Streets of Edinburgh - https://youtu.be/7qTbLoyQ23g

So, welcome to a new decade. The music continues here at HQ World Wide Woozle. Thanks for listening and reading. Oh, we all really enjoyed the new Star Wars movie. I'll write more next time.

Rob

"The river runs red,
Black rain falls, On my bleeding land...", River Runs Red, Midnight Oil, 1990.

World Wide Woozle episode #496

A warning...this is not a Christmas episode. It may, however, contain a Christmas tune. Apologies to those who may have seen some of them already via by Facebook feed! And yes, you're not dreaming, this episode is a day early. That's what happens when you have to clear your time in lieu at work ASAP!

Back to my review of the 100 supposedly essential albums....

Album 45/100 - Sufjan Stevens - Illinoise (2005)

I became aware of this album when asked to play one of its songs in the band with Bing and The Chief. I learned the song never having heard the original. Not long after that I got the CD and away I went. For the uninitiated, this is a rather eclectic recording. There's some folk, some dreamy pop, piano songs, horns and woodwind and Sufjan's light vocal touch. Long song titles are de rigeur here; longer than most Iron Maiden songs and that's saying something! My thoughts are that if you are open minded about music then you'll probably take some time with this album and end up really enjoying it. "Illinoise" is a broad soundscape, a bit of a carnival, and a long burn. Here's the song we played a while ago now...always haunting...

Sufjan Stevens - John Wayne Gacy Jr. - https://youtu.be/otx49Ko3fxw

I had occasion this week to introduce my brother to the music of The Whitlams. This came about as he sent me this cool link to a video about the drummer Louis Burdett, who The Whitlams have a song about. Anyway, here's that song and also my favourite from the band. 

The Whitlams - You Sound Like Louis Burdett (live) - https://youtu.be/V-C1rHsUGU4

The Whitlams - I Make Hamburgers (live) - https://youtu.be/aIi3RYd-TOs

I played some music from Soul Asylum a few episodes back. Well, they've just released a new single and it's great. I can't tell if it reminds me of "Scarborough Fair" or "Working Class Hero" so maybe there's elements of both in there. There's a tour on the cards but nothing about a new album...yet. Fingers crossed.

Soul Asylum - Dead Letter - https://youtu.be/wyKLbUIyw0E

I've just finished reading "Tommyland", the autobiography of Motley Crue drummer, Tommy Lee. It wasn't a bad read but it wasn't earth shattering either. I imagine if you want actual information about the ins and outs of Motley Crue then you need to read "The Dirt" as well as watching the film. This book was very much about Tommy's colourful life - warts and all. I did really enjoy the fact that he wrote about the many different types of music he enjoys and their influence on his solo records. Other than that the book is a bit of a response to every celebrity magazine and TV story about him. For fans only.

The Dropkick Murphys are an American punk/folk band who make an awesome anthemic racket combining influences like The Pogues and The Clash. They're not afraid to make fun of themselves either. Merry Christmas indeed!

The Dropkick Murphys - The Season's Upon Us - https://youtu.be/qTx-sdR6Yzk

RockWiz's demise left a gaping hole in TV entertainment here in Australia. Thankfully, a lot of the best moments are still available online. Here's a great version of a Simon and Garfunkel classic for you all to enjoy. One of the things I wish that I could do is to sing in harmony. I can't though, I have enough trouble sticking with the melody!

Emma Louise and Husky Gawenda - The Sound of Silence - https://youtu.be/relfz3ZFsZA

And then there's this little gem. of a tune....what a voice!

Connie Mitchell - What A Feeling - https://youtu.be/iJUNznsc4JI

It's not long now until DJ ZedBoots packs up those boots and moves to London. We're making the most of her time here by making her cook dinner and empty the dishwasher ha ha! This afternoon the three of us are off to see the new Star Wars film woo hoo! But here's a beautiful rendition of a song that's been in my mind for a while... Not all the lyrics fir this situation but you get the idea I hope. More harmonies too....

John Denver and Cass Elliot - Leaving On A Jet Plane - https://youtu.be/NKdknYaSHgE?t=108

Have a great Christmas everyone. 

Rob

"Why don't you get a haircut and get a real job?". Get A Hair Cut, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, 1993.