Elliott Smith...review

An Introduction To…Elliott Smith

When Elliott Smith died in October 2003 the world lost one of the most powerful and greatest songwriters of our era. ‘An Introduction to…Elliott Smith’ provides the listener with a well-balanced and insightful collection to some of Elliott’s strongest and most loved songs.

From the Academy Award nominated ‘Miss Misery’ (New Moon) and ‘Last Call’ (Roman Candle), this album brings you right up to date with tracks from ‘From A Basement On The Hill’ (the posthumously released record in 2004).  Each of Elliott’s seven albums are represented on the collection with ‘Either/Or’ (perhaps deservedly so) offering no less than 5 tracks.

Elliott was born in Nebraska in 1969 before moving to Dallas as a one year old to live with his mother. By fourteen he moved to Portland to live with his father, stepmother and two half-sisters. It was in Portland that Elliott started writing and recording songs on a four-track recorder. Whilst studying at Hampshire College, Elliott befriended Neil Gust, who he later went on to form the band Heatmiser with. From this point onwards Elliott demonstrated his song writing abilities, gaining significant critical acclaim along the way.

Although some personal favourites may be left off (‘I Didn’t Understand, ‘Son Of Sam and ‘A Fond Farewell’), this will always happen when these collections are put together. Having said this, there is not a bad track on the record (it would be hard to find a bad Elliott track). “Needle In The Hay’, ‘Pretty (Ugly Before) and ‘Between The Bars’ all earn their place, much to the delight of this reviewer.

The collection works predominantly for the listener who has yet to hear a single song of Elliott Smith (wanting a taste), but also for the established fan that can appreciate some of his best known works. These ‘introduction to’ releases often misrepresent an artist, especially one whose albums are so well rounded without obvious stand out singles. This record however, does not act as a ‘best of’, yet as titled, an ‘introduction to’….such an emotional, powerful and mesmerising songwriter. It is a great place to start before you delve into each of his albums.

PS. Check Elliott's Beatles cover of 'Because' from the end credits of the movie American Beauty.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvSdFr3niQM

Temper Trap remixes

Conditions album remixes here. Listen before you BUY:

http://www.thetempertrap.com/content/listen-conditions-remixed-full

currently listening to...Elliott Smith

Elliott Smith-Either/Or

I spend quite a lot of time listening to the late Elliott Smith. His songs are powerful beyond words. I've been making my way through his back catalogue and there's so many great albums there. This one is a particular favourite of mine, released back in 1997 (a great year for albums).

Listen to new Elliott Smith album here

You can listen (before you BUY) to the new 'An Introduction to...Elliott Smith' album by clicking on the link below.

http://www.nme.com/news/elliott-smith/53567

New Music # 14 The Vaccines

The Vaccines

You may have heard their first single 'Wreckin' Bar (Ra Ra Ra)' on the likes of XFM or being talked about in NME etc....the track is due out November 22nd.

Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/thevaccinesuk

Along with Mona, Warpaint and a couple others that will be discussed in the near future, The Vaccines are on my list of ones to watch over the next couple years in terms of indie rock.

The band are touring the UK throughout November and Decemeber and are worth checking out:

http://thevaccines.co.uk/

Interview with Kris Drever

Before I go to the Drever, McCusker, Woomble gig at Union Chapel on Novemeber 10th, I was excited to chat with Kris Drever about the tour, his other collaborations and some of his fondest music memories:

1. You’re currently in the middle of a tour at the moment (with Lau) aren’t you? How has that been going?

Yes. It’s been going very well…all sold out!

2. You released your second solo album ‘Mark The Hard Earth’ earlier this year. What has the response been like?

The response has been very good. I haven’t done much solo touring but it’s been great, lots of compliments.

3. Do you prefer writing and recording solo albums or collaborative ones?

I don’t prefer either. I like to keep producing lots of material….you need a diverse musical life and each (solo and collaborative work) help each other.

4. Do certain musicians lead you to write certain songs, or does it depend on how you’re feeling at that time?

Music making is made up of different mechanics and people have certain ways of doing things. There’s a knock on effect (from the other musicians to what is written). The knock on effect is mainly for the melody…but the lyrics come from the melody written.

5. I know Phil Selway recorded on a few tracks for ‘Before The Ruin’. How did that come about? Are Radiohead a big influence on your music? Will he playing any live dates with you in the near future?

I love Radiohead. Every teenager has a record that they have a special relationship towards and ‘The Bends’ was mine. He became involved through connections with John McCusker. Phil’s a fan of folk music and had been to a gig where John and I were playing somewhere in Oxfordshire…I doubt he’ll be touring with us, I’m sure he’s very busy with Radiohead at the moment!

6. I found out about your music from Idlewild…being a big fan of theirs for years. In terms of how other people follow the band, is it an even spread that you each bring fans so some find out from Roddy, some John and some yourself….?

When we first started I think that Roddy had the lion share of fans at the performance. There are certain Idlewild fans who are not too bothered about folk music though and so now it’s probably more evenly split. I guess you could say it’s half Roddy and half John and I together.

7. Does it feel unsettling or natural to go from one tour to the next with different musicians?

I need a day in between! I’ve done 2 gigs with different bands at the same festival before and it was a nightmare-a lot of material! It’s doable, but not ideal.

8. For any of our readers who aren’t familiar with your work, where would you point them first? What are you most proud of would you say?

Well I’m proud of all of it. Some people have trouble grasping music with no vocals-so not the instrumental stuff…in which case maybe start with the solo stuff, or go directly to a Lau gig.

9. What’s the next record you’re involved in? Will Drever, McCusker, Woomble be releasing another record?

We (Drever, McCusker, Woomble) will be doing another album. Lau are releasing an EP in the near future.

I’m now going to ask you the standard set of interview questions for our readers to get to know you a bit better:

10. Who are you listening to at the moment?

I’ve been listening to a T-Bone Burnett album: ‘Tooth of Crime’ recently.

11. What was the first gig you went to?

That would be The Boys of the Lough in Kirkwall, Orkney. It would have been about 1986.

12. Most memorable gig?

When Beck supported Radiohead in Edinburgh. He had the full puppet show going with the band playing and the puppets doing the same!

13. Perfect gig-if you could pick any band to play anywhere?

I would see…Tom Waits, with the band of his choice at The Bongo Club in Edinburgh.

14. If you could pick any musician to collaborate with, who would it be?

Mark Ribot. I love his guitar playing!

Vulgar Picture grows...

Keep reading our articles and posting your comments. If you want to be a guest writer then get in touch...comment on our blogs.

Hope you're enjoying the music...it's great hearing from people telling us that they're listening to what we're recommending.

currently listening to...Belle & Sebastian

Been making my way through all 8 of their studio albums to date over the past few days.

Why? I felt it was time to listen to them seriously. They've often been compared to so many bands that I like so much (including The Smiths, Nick Drake and Dylan)...

Each album is a great listen with the odd fantastic song thrown in. I'm very much enjoying myself thank you.

Kid A vs Mark Beaumont?

Casually reading some articles online and strolled upon this:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/musicblog/2010/oct/11/radiohead-kid-a-10-years

Mark Beaumont, who I've never been much of a fan of (although respect him telling it how he thinks it is, even if it isn't!), re-reviews Kid A...and decides that he was right and it was shit.

I can understand why people may not like Kid A. It took me a fair few listens to realise that it was one of the best albums ever recorded. To say that 'How To Disappear Completely' 'mumbles and drags too drearily' is pathetic....it's most definitely one of my favourite songs of all time.

For the Radiohead fan or not.... it's always fun to read everyone going nuts in the comment section when something like Kid A is being discussed.

For those interested, here is the link to his review back in 2000:

http://www.followmearound.com/presscuttings.php?year=2000&cutting=85

currently listening to...Carl Barât

Carl Barât-Carl Barât

The debut solo album from the Libertine. Wasn't a fan of the single but decided it was time to give the album a go.

To listen before you BUY check here:


http://www.glasswerk.co.uk/news/national/10586/Carl+Barat+Album+Stream

Oh dear Kings Of Leon...

http://www.music-news.com/shownews.asp?H=Kings-Of-Leon-slag-off-Arcade-Fire&nItemID=37188

How wrong has he got it...both here and on his last two albums. Arcade Fire must be laughing from the leagues and leagues above KOL that they sit in.

Weezer fans offering money for the band to stop!!

Pretty amusing little article about a bunch of unhappy fans:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2010/oct/07/weezer-offered-10m-split-up

currently listening to...The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground-The Velvet Underground & Nico

If you haven't heard it...hear it.

Without a doubt one of my favourite albums ever and one I keep coming back to.

Radiohead fan and looking for new music?

Always a good way to find out about some interesting bands and DJs.

Thom often puts up what he's listening to at the moment and there's always the chance of discovering a gem or two:


http://www.radiohead.com/deadairspace/

Warpaint...influence

Check this brief article where Warpaint's Emily Kokal talks about one of her main influences:


http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/musicblog/2010/oct/22/ari-up-emily-kokal-warpaint

Warpaint's debut album...listen here now!

A band I've been talking about for a while (Warpaint) are set to release their debut album later this month. You can listen to it in full right here before you BUY it!

http://hypem.com/search/warpaint

New Music #13 Neil Young

Neil Young-Le Noise

On first listen of this record I was pretty disappointed. Neil's one of those artists that I often hail as untouchable, but he's put out so many records over the years that they're not all going to be immaculate (in my eyes).

At times, this album threatens to take off...you hear Neil's raw guitar sound and you're ready to head into a messy, rock-fuelled classic. More often than not however, each track is slightly held back, and its urgency is lost. The first real highlight comes midway in the form of the acoustic 'Love And War'. This was the only track that impressed on my first listen and definitely stands alone.

The other acousic track on the record-'Peaceful Valley Boulevard' is probably the other strong point. I'm normally such a fan of Neil's electric sound that it was a surprise to me that my favourites were his softer songs. I think the rockier, electric tracks are missing the 'edge' that he is known for. They seem half-hearted a times. Perhaps it was a conscious decision not to recreate his classic sound...going for something different; but it just didn't work for me.

Listen out for a hint of 'In Those Jeans-Ginuwine' at the beginning of 'Peaceful Valley Boulevard'!!! Must be one of Neil's influences!!

currently listening to...Anthony and the Johnsons

Anthony and the Johnsons-Swanlights

The new album from Anthony Hegarty and co was released last week. It sees a collaboration with Bjork on 'Fletta' and comes with a 144 page book filled with a variety of Anthony's paintings, photography and writings.

An artist that creeps into my range, (at times just about), and one whose artistic integrity can never be questioned. Powerful, emotional and often extremely melancholic...as with every Anthony record this is filled with feeling. 'Ghosts', 'Fletta' and lead single 'Thank You For Your Love' stand out.

Kings Of Leon-Come Around Sundown...thoughts

Kings Of Leon-Come Around Sundown

I told a friend I was going to give this a listen whilst making a journey up the M1 late at night. His response: 'good luck'. Why? He hadn't heard it.

I would probably have said the same to him if it had been the other way round. Why? I didn't know what it would be like.

I'll tell you the answer and save you reading the pointless and endless debates posted on guardian music et al about this band. Yes it's true their first couple of albums were great, their third OK and their fourth very uninspiring and not to my liking.....but they don't do themselves any favours. They recently slated both the songs that made them HUGE and their fans for no longer being cool. Fair enough...maybe they wrote an album and didn't like the way it sounded (don't release it you're saying). They weren't a fan of their new founded commercialism and success. Maybe they didn't like the fact that they were being played in very uncool nightclubs and in the rooms of 12 year old girls....(this didn't stop them from playing arenas and generally showing themselves as mainstream boy band pricks).....but all of this made their next album CRUCIAL.

When I was thinking of a way of summing up the record to my friend all I could think of was that they have pretty much dropped their commercial sing-along stadium fillers, but forgotten to replace it with anything....and that is exactly what I stick by. 'Come Around Sundown', as clear from both title and artwork and more importantly the music-is a nothing album. It certainly doesn't put KOL back on the map as a gritty, raw rock band like 'Youth And Young Manhood' did. It also isn't another 'Only By The Night'...although they'll get a similar fanbase from it I'd imagine.

When I heard the lead single 'Radioactive' I was certain they'd carry on the same route as OBTN, but the majority of this album tries to be more laid back and less stag night sing-along. I guess it does....but it does so extremely unconvincingly. I read somewhere that it sounds like an album that the band aren't confident about and I'd completely agree with that. It's the sound of a band struggling and not knowing where they belong or who they want to buy their records.

I can't see this record taking off like OBTN did, but I guess it was never going to. All it will do is struggle to keep those 'uncool' fans they didn't want, whilst struggle to regain the fans they lost 1-2 albums ago.

I don't hate this band, I just think that they've shot themselves in the foot so many times and this album is another prime example. They needed to do something big-and this album is anything but that.

request blogs....

Recently had a couple of requests for blogs on certain bands/albums.

Tell Vulgar Picture what you're listening to and we'll probably listen to it too and write our thoughts!

Comment on any blog with comments and recommendations!!!

currently listening to...Two Door Cinema Club

A kind of guilty pleasure I guess. With a name like Two Door Cinema Club they should be a band that I can't stand. Their album was played endlessly to me over the past few months and gradually I came to be quite a fan of 'Undercover Martyn', 'What You Know' and perhaps a couple others. Yes it's indie-pop, but once in a while it can't hurt.

currently litening to...Beck

Beck-Modern Guilt

The 11th album from the American multi-instrumentalist.  After being nominated for a Grammy, it lost out to Radiohead's In Rainbows....can't really complain about that one!

Review...

Mona-Flowerpot/KOKO:


http://www.music-news.com/showreview.asp?H=Mona&nReviewID=6350

and the world laughs with you

Flying Lotus ft Thom Yorke-And The World Laughs With You

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvZmd1ceCLY

currently listening to...The Beatles

The Beatles-Revolver

Often cited as their best record, and I don't think I can disagree. 'I'm Only Sleeping', 'And You Bird Can Sing', 'Love You To', 'Doctor Robert', 'Tomorrow Never Knows', 'She Said She Said'...the whole album is amazing. Mad to think that this was 1966...so ahead of its time. 

Glasto 2011...be on the ball!

Make sure you don't leave it too late!

http://www.nme.com/news/glastonbury/53241

last night...Mona at Flowerpot

Mona...the band that will soon be on everyones Ipods.

I spoke of them a couple weeks ago (see New Music #6), after hearing them for the first time-I had a sense that they were going to be huge! I was at their first UK gig last night at Kentish Town's Flowerpot. A tiny venue and a great one to see this band, as you get the sense that they'll be heading for bigger and bigger venues before long.

Huge similarities to Kings Of Leon have been drawn and this is fair. At times rockier, at times more authentic, there's a catchy hook to each song, and pretty soon they'll be flooding the radio.

Was a great gig and hopefully will be catching them at KOKO on Friday too. Check them out now!!!


http://www.myspace.com/monatheband

Building Steam From A Grain Of Salt

Been playing this all day. Just one of those days when something sticks. Turn it up a notch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ld_tF1AXqs

currently listening to...John Martyn

John Martyn-Sold Air

I seem to spend a lot of my time listening to John Martyn, yet never get bored of him. Favourites on this record have to be 'Over The Hill' and 'Don't Want To Know'. This is arguably his best received album, and is often seen as one of the best down tempo/chill out/soft/'acousticy' records of all time. Jazzy elements keep it interesting from beginning to end with John's lush vocals thoroughly endearing.

Vulgar Picture takes on The X Factor

We're head deep into series 7 of the infamous show and before more and more people drop it from their schedules, I thought it was a good time to write a piece on it. A while ago I read an interesting article about the show, and whether it was a good or bad thing for the music industry. At first glance, most people who care about their music and the industry, will say it's ruining the current state of music. Dominating the chart and dictating christmas number 1s (until last year!), there's no doubt that it's the biggest thing to happen to the industry for quite some time (forgetting internet/downloading...2nd biggest thing doesn't sound as great).

I think the negatives of the show are obvious, and don't need much dwelling on (destruction of originality, emphasis on public humiliation of failed contestants, horrible cliche script from the judges...the list is pretty long). I do, however, believe that the show has brought the industry something big for fans of chart music, and haters of it. Since the birth of the show, millions of people have tuned in weekly and followed the progression of hopeful singers who look to follow their passion. The main problem with this is that so many people go on the show for money and fame (and even admit to this in their audition), but I guess these are so closely related to the life of a pop star that you can't have too much of a go at them for their rather superficial ambitions. It is a problem with this celebrity culture and money obsessed society we live in and not the hopefuls directly.

It may be annoying and it may be ridiculous that the artists and guest performers dominate the charts in the way they do, but I would imagine that it does increase sales in music...something which is a big issue for the industry right now. Also, people are talking about the contestants. Maybe I'm being naive, and it's more about what outfit Cheryl has worn this week, or who looked better out of her and Dannii (you know who you are), or how rude Simon is; but there are a lot of people who are taking an interest in the process and development of the singers. Now don't get me wrong, I hate most of the ideals of the show, and struggle to get through an episode, but if it gets people talking about music and eventually buying it, then I'm all for it (although I guess the argument here is that the people who love the music from the show are more likely to be those downloading singles and not buying albums, although not always). I don't care what music people like, I just want them to be passionate about it, and if The X Factor is making people passionate, then I'm all for it. For the haters, it gives you a stronger sense of appreciation of what you listen to and something to moan about (which we all love).

It definitely isn't the most authentic way to get people interested in unsigned music, but if the show didn't exist then there's a chance music would play even less of a role in those peoples lives. Yes it might leave room for a better show that cares more about the music than money, and it may leave room for a show that is produced in a way that focuses on the artists and not one which shows more adverts and dramatised sob stories than people singing-but the point is that this is what people want, and if it's a choice between this and another Katie Price show (perhaps similar quality), I'd rather it be one that gets people talking about music.

I think that when I used to criticise the show and get angry at it, I was ignoring the fact that it's not meant for me. It's not meant for anyone who takes their music too seriously, or likes to discover an unsigned band in a subtle way, or listen to someone who writes their music and cares about it. The X Factor doesn't claim to cater to this. It's an entertainment show first and foremost. At the end of the day it's getting people talking about music, so I can't complain. It may be unfortunate, but it's a sign of the times. I can't imagine a show like this being as successful in the 70s, but then, times have changed and the way people 'buy' (/download) their music has changed. The show is a perfect reflection of our society and if you want things to be more authentic/real and less dramatised, money-orientated and hideously superficial, then we need to look to change society first. This, however, is a job for others.

currently watching...The Thirst

Acoustic set-up:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LA2Z-enRJI

Brixton-based band, you can hear them here: http://www.myspace.com/thethirstrockband

Ryan Adams documentary on the way...

Acclaimed rock photographer, Danny Clinch, founded film production company 'Three On The Tree' back in 2003. After spending a year with Ryan Adams and The Cardinals in 2005, during which time Ryan released 3 records, Danny collected material to make a feature-length documentary on the hard-working musician.

Can't wait for this-will be great to get a glimpse of Ryan's outrageous creativity. Expect/hope for this one in the not too distant future.

currently listening to...Club 8

Club 8-Club 8

The Swedish duo's third album. This record marked a change in sound for the band, moving towards trip-hop grounds. The whispery vocals of Karolina Komstedt shine through. A great listen.

New Music #12 Let's Buy Happiness

Quite a bit of hype about this band right now. With big praise from Drowned In Sound, BBC Music and other reviewers, they seem to be heading in the right direction. There's some (slight) similarity to Warpaint (see NewMusic #1), although they're definitely not quite as interesting. Other similarities have included The Sundays, Bjork and (wait for it,) Diana Vickers!

Hailing from Newcastle, this 5 piece will pick up fans along the way by combining their soft melodies with poppy overtones. By no means my favourite band right now, but there's something rather charming about their sound and they're probably one to look out for.

Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/letsbuyhappinessuk

currently listening to...The Doors

The Doors-LA Woman

The sixth and final studio album (with Jim) from The Doors. Probably their most bluesy record, with this showing the obvious development from their debut album. Often seen as their best work, although I always struggle to choose between this and 'Strange Days'.

Check 'Been Down So Long' and 'Car Hiss By My Window' for just a couple of the highlights.

More on Moz...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/musicblog/2010/sep/24/morrissey-simon-armitage-mojo

The articles keep flooding in!

Astoria now 100 Club

Join the group. Make a fuss. What's next?

http://www.the100club.co.uk/

Why Stephen Fry loves Wagner

http://www.guardian.co.uk/global/2010/sep/23/stephen-fry-wagner

Desert Island Album #3

Jeff Buckley-Grace

Released in 1994, this was Jeff's only completed studio album. This could quite possibly be the best vocal delivery ever recorded. For me, this is such a complete record. From the moment 'Mojo Pin' begins to the second that 'Dream Brother' ends, you've been taken on an emotional journey that leaves you feeling completely drained.

Jeff's voice is so on the money throughout: empowering, delicate, fragile, natural, encompassing and extremely haunting. For many, the only experience of Jeff is most likely to be in the form of his great cover of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah'. Whilst this is, of course, brilliant....there is so much more to the record. Look no further than the opening six seconds of 'Lilac Wine', surely enough to get you interested.

The strongest memory that I have of this record is of walking at about 1am in the morning, in the pitch black, having just left my university house. The album was on full blast through some great headphones and I completely lost myself. I could have carried on walking endlessly without knowing (or caring) where I was headed for. I remember finding it quite spooky at first, all alone in the dark back streets of a not-so-great area, listening to Jeff screaming midway through 'Lover You Should've Come Over'. I recall the moment so clearly and remember finding it so strange having a conversation with another person after i had turned it off. It felt like being knocked back down to earth all too abruptly.

At the age of 30, Jeff accidentally drowned in the Wolf River (Memphis). I would've loved to have had more albums from him; but this one was so perfect, that anything else would've struggled (big-time) to match up. Such a great musician, with undeniably one of the most powerful records of the 90s.

Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child

I'm sure many of you caught this last night, but for those who didn't, it's definitely worth a watch:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00tw2db/Jimi_Hendrix_Voodoo_Child/

Nothing needs to be said about Hendrix's talent. 'Electric Ladyland' is one of my favourite 60s records and just about tips 'Are You Experienced' and 'Axis: Bold As Love' for me.

John Prescott on music

Why not?

Whether it's your thing or not, I think that anyone who watched Jools last night would have enjoyed her beautiful vocals:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/musicblog/2010/sep/22/john-prescott-rumer-karen-carpenter

currently listening to...Camille

Camille-Le Fil

I was recommended this by a good friend who has recently spent a year in France. Right from the initial note that carries throughout the album (the singer calls this 'her note'), you are drawn in by the home-made beats and sexy vocals.

Brilliantly, some people took the record back asking for a refund, thinking that the note in the background was a fault: http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/musicnews/s1743651.htm

Fans of Bjork should take note.

New Music # 11 John Grant

After his time fronting The Czars, and not quite making 'it'; John Grant released his debut solo album 'Queen Of Denmark' earlier this year on Bella Union.

The record has been received extremely well by the press, most praising the thought-provoking nature of its lyrics, rooted in John's feelings of isolation and alienation. Although it is driven by a predominantly folky sound, each track has a poppy feel to it, which make it very listenable and easy to get through.

Don't be fooled by some of the lighthearted melodies, this is a record filled with the thoughts of a man who has recovered from painful addictions and struggled with the contemplation of suicide.

'I Wanna Go To Marz' is the obvious one to listen to first. Great track.

John is on tour with Midlake over the next few months.

Atoms For Peace footage

Live footage from Fuji Rock Festival 2010:

http://www.nme.com/news/atoms-for-peace/53093

Desert Island Album #2

The Smiths-The Queen Is Dead

The Smiths were one of the 2 bands that got me into music (properly). I remember, (extremely well), being in my friends room early one evening, and their name came up. It seems so funny now, but I asked him to play me a song, to see if I liked it. I can't imagine where I'd start if someone were to ask me the same question now, but I guess it would have to be with 'This Charming Man', which is where it all did for me. As I listened, I remember thinking that I'd never heard anything quite like Johnny Marr's guitar. It was sort of weird, quirky, playful, yet utterly listenable. As the track finished, I asked for more. This is where it started.

It may be cool to like The Smiths. It may be uncool. They're one of those iconic bands where if you like them, you tend to love them, live by them and swear by them. Each of their 4 studio albums that were released between 1984-1987 were brilliant. 'The Queen Is Dead' has always just about stood out (marginally). Beyond the obvious 'There Is A Light That Never Goes Out', 'Bigmouth Strikes Again', 'The Boy With The Thorn In His Side' and 'I Know It's Over', there are so many other gems. 'Cemetry Gates is arguably my favourite Smiths track. 'Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others' makes me laugh out loud every time I hear it, and 'Frankly Mr Shankly' shows Morrissey (lyrically) at the top of his game.

You may have read my earlier blog on Morrissey and his antics today, and think I'm a hater. This couldn't be further from the truth. Having seen him live, you can't help but love him. He may have fallen down my list a bit these days, but his work in The Smiths is untouchable and unforgettable. Having said this, I do fall on the Johnny side (if/when it comes down to it). I don't know anyone else whose guitar sounds like his. I can try a million times, learn every song, every chord progression, but it just doesn't come close.

Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce's involvement often goes unnoticed, which is stupidly unfair. Without them, they simply wouldn't have been The Smiths.

The day I discovered Radiohead's cover of 'Headmaster Ritual' was one of those days you don't forget. Your favourite band (superbly) covering your second favourite band. For those of you who haven't enjoyed it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtmS2ePSSdU

I think they're one of the only bands that are a constant for me. Whatever mood I'm in, whatever week I've had, The Smiths can, and usually do, fit into it. The lyrics are so humorous and farcical, whilst touching on such important issues, that you can't help but cling onto every single word.

They may have only released four (sublime) albums, but there's tons of great tracks lying about. 'Is It Really So Strange', 'Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want', 'Jean', 'Half A Person' and 'Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now' are just a handful of others that deserve a religious kind of attention.

I love thinking about the day when I didn't know who they were. I think about how long I've spent listening to the music, reading the lyrics and discovering the stories.

PS. 'Vulgar Picture' had to come from somewhere. A Smiths album track is never a bad place to start.

Unequal Opportunities with John Humphrys

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00txmtm/Unequal_Opportunities_with_John_Humphrys/

'All this talk about equality. The only thing people really have in common is that they are all going to die'. Bob Dylan

New Music #10 Detroit Social Club

The Newcastle-born quintet, Detroit Social Club, have been hotly tipped by NME and other excitable music reviewers. In spite of this, they sound great. More often than not a band that is overly-hyped in the press, fails to live up to it. They may not have taken the world to storm quite yet, but a bright future is looking more and more likely.

'Northern Man' has some relationship with SkySports which gets them a pretty big audience itself, and the track has been gaining airtime of its own recently. The album, 'Existence', fuses messy rock with playful guitar lines, mixed together with some rather gripping harmonies.

The record is saturated with influences. The obvious ones include De La Soul, The Velvet Underground, Kasabian, Oasis, The Coral, Beck and Iggy Pop. You can hear bits of each throughout, amongst many others. To be honest there isn't a weak track. 'Rivers and Rainbows' catches you immediately, whilst 'Kiss The Sun' and 'Chemistry' build superbly. So many great ones to choose from.

Touring the UK at the moment, they're worth catching live before they evolve into bigger venues.

currently listening to...Red Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers-Blood Sugar Sex Magik

Released in 1991, this is such a hard-hitting album. Groovy, funky, rocky and raw. Great musicians giving it their all. Probably has to be my favourite Chili Peppers album.