28th July 2024

Titus writes:

Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, the Von Bondies formed in 1997 and after inevitable changes of personnel, played on until 2011, when they disbanded after fourteen years. They reformed in 2020, and planned a big reunion tour, which never happened due to the Covid 19 pandemic.  They have headlined tours of their native United States, plus the U.K., Europe and Australia, and unbelievably have had as their support bands, the likes of Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand and the Subways.  As a mirror image of bands in the 1960’s/70’s like the Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Doors appearing on the Ed Sullivan Show, the Von Bondies have appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman.  Jason Stollsteimer has been the unofficial leader of the band since formation, and back in 1997, with former member Marcie Bolan, he went to a concert headed by the Cramps and Japanese band Guitar Wolf.  Back then he had a job that many would love – looking after the Bar at a local Bowling Alley, but the concert performance I mentioned inspired the duo to form their own band, Baby Killers.

 

This new band toured with other Detroit bands The Detroit Cobras (more about them in the coming weeks), The Go, and The White Stripes.  For a reason unknown to myself, after recruiting Don Blum and Lauren Wilcox, the band changed their name to the Von Bondies.  You no doubt read my little piece on ‘Long Gone John’, owner of Sympathy for the Record Industry Records.  Well, John attended the Von Bondies’ gig in Detroit in 2000, and they were promptly signed to the label, releasing a couple of singles.  By this time, Jack & Meg White had attained considerable fame as The White Stripes, and Jack produced the Von Bondies’ debut album in 2001 called ‘Lack of Communication’ which interestingly included a cover of Sam Cooke’s ‘Bring it on home to me’.

 

In 2002 the Bondies relocated to San Francisco to work on their next album, but on returning to Detroit for a while, Stollsteimer had a violent disagreement with Jack White, and was treated for injuries, at Detroit Receiving Hospital.  A fact hardly reported in the UK media was that White pleaded guilty to assault.  In 2004, the band finally released their second LP, and it turned out to be a real breakthrough album, called ‘Pawn Shoppe Heart’ on Sire Records. It reached No. 8 in Billboard’s Top Heatseekers Chart.  The single released from this LP was ‘C’mon C’mon’, which reached No. 21 in the UK Singles’ Chart.  Their third album ‘Love, Hate and Then There’s You’, was released in 2009, on Majorodomo Records, by which time Stollsteimer had been joined by Don Blum, Christy Hunt & Leann Banks – this was the final line up before the band disbanded in 2011.  It was perhaps a cruel twist of fate (Covid 19) that the band’s positive reformation plans were thwarted in 2020.

 

It will come as no surprise that legendary DJ John Peel really took to the work of the Von Bondies, and gave them considerable airspace on his Radio One show.  The band played three sessions in 2001, 2002 and 2004.  In one memorable Peel Show, John’s son William telephoned his father and said that he had been to see the White Stripes and the Von Bondies in Edinburgh and that they “were amazing”.  The band also performed live sessions for the BBC, from the Reading Festival in 2002 and  from Glastonbury in 2004.  The track I have requested Lex to play is the title track of the ‘Lack of Communication’ LP, recorded live on ‘Later with Jools Holland’ in 2002 and it can be found here.

26th July 2024

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No Doubt  - Oi To The World
Rosie Darling - What A Convincing Illusion
Pale Waves - Kiss
Chastity Belt - Laugh
Roy Harper - Another Day
The TR5's - Everybody's Screaming (Lord Sutch)
The Dead South - A Place I Hardly Know
Redwood - The Weight Of The World
Final Thirteen - Why You Sacrifice Me Now?
Ibibio Sound Machine - Got to Be Who U Are
Telehope - Chasing Nostalgia
Balance and Composure - Believe the Hype
Aural feat. Laura Sippola - Syyskuu
Automatic - New Sensations
The Southern River Band - Chasin' After Love
The Japanese House - Something Has to Change 

21st July 2024

Titus writes:

With a few exceptions, I don’t generally follow ageing rock stars, but Roy Harper is an exception.  A very talented writer, folk/rock musician who has always been admired by many inside and outside of the industry. Neil McCormick of the Daily Telegraph described him as “one of Britain’s most complex and eloquent lyricists, much admired by his peers” whilst Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull cited Harper as his “primary influence as an acoustic guitarist and song writer”. Others who admire Harper are Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, Kate Bush, Pete Townshend & Pink Floyd.

 

A Mancunian by birth, he moved to St Annes-on-Sea at the age of six, and he never took to it, later describing as being “like a cemetery with bus stops”. A lifelong atheist, Roy clashed many times with his stepmother who had strong religious beliefs.  He began writing poetry when 12 and played skiffle with his brother David (‘Davey’ on the album ‘Flat Baroque & Berserk’). He left school to join the RAF in his quest to become a pilot, but became disillusioned with the discipline in the Military.  Having escaped from the RAF, after a few mental health problems, he busked around North Africa, Europe and London. On returning to Blighty, he started to write more songs, and was signed to Strike Records, who released his first LP ‘Sophisticated Beggar’ in 1966.  He never saw himself as part of the growing traditional folk scene, and Columbia’s Shel Talmy recognised Roy’s potential, and in 1968 released a second album ‘Come out fighting, Ghengis Smith’. On this record was an eleven minute track called ‘Circle’ which was a soundscape of Harper’s difficult youth, and this illustrated the widening of his musical style.  He said later “I was too much of a modernist – just too modern for what was going on in folk clubs. My record company wanted pop hits and I gave them Circle”.

 

In the late sixties/early seventies, I used to go to the legendary Mothers Club in Birmingham, and Roy Harper played there around six times  in that period.   He loved the place and said that Mothers was the first venue outside of London which really meant something to him. Shel Talmy produced his third album ‘Folkjokeopus’ which was on Liberty records and included a seventeen minute track ‘McGoohan’s Blues’, which Roy used to underline his non-conformance to radio-friendly, standard 3 minute songs.

 

His reputation was now growing and in 1970 Harper signed a deal (via ex Floyd manager Peter Jenner) with EMI ‘underground’ subsidiary Harvest Records, where he would remain for ten years.  Jenner commented “He’s a terrific songwriter, but a bit crazy, like all the best people”. Despite being a big admirer, John Peel felt he had to reply to Roy at a live concert session, when the latter criticised the BBC & Radio One whilst on air. Peel replied that whilst he conceded that the BBC as a large organisation was far from perfect, Roy Harper has just signed with EMI, who apparently called themselves “the biggest recording company in the World”. Ouch!

 

Roy Harper’s popularity went from strength to strength and all in all he has recorded 22 studio albums, 13 live albums, 12 compilation albums, and 21 singles/EP’s. In my “Not a lot of people know that” series, I’ll tell you now, something that most Roy Harper /Pink Floyd aficionados should know..... Roy sang ‘Have a cigar’ on Floyd’s ‘Wish you were here’ LP.  During Christmas 1979, Kate Bush & Peter Gabriel sang Harper’s ‘Another Day’ as a duet, in tribute to the great man. 

 

In 2011 Roy played London’s Royal Festival Hall to celebrate his 70th birthday, with The Daily Telegraph describing it as “an evening of devastating musical brilliance”, and in 2019 he played a series of concerts covering 8 venues in the U.K. My own favourite of all of Roy’s songs is ‘When an old cricketer leaves the crease’, and this he actually sung as a lunchtime guest on BBC Radio’s ‘Test Match Special’, on 24 July 2011. Whilst brilliant, this track is far too long for lex’s programme. I have therefore requested the aforementioned 'Another Day' from the ‘Flat Baroque & Berserk’ album, which can be found here. To me, apart from being such an amazingly talented singer/songwriter/ guitarist,  he’s always been eccentric, non conformist, and slightly mad but I guess that’s part of the reasons I admire him so much.

19th July 2024

Click HERE to listen again or to download the podcast (downloading & playing is more reliable). 

GUN - Race with the Devil
Paul Russell ft. Meghan Trainor - Slippin'
The Warning - Burnout

Morgan Wade - Suspicious Minds
Those Damn Crows - Let's Go Psycho!
Sheryl Crow - Do It Again
Meg Myers - Desire
Mr. Airplane Man - C'mon DJ
Sjöblom - Fly Away With Me
Misfits - Skulls
Pale Waves - Television Romance
Allie X - Black Eye
Chime School - Give Your Heart Away
Mount Rushka - Weathervane
Men At Work - Who can It be Now
Judas Priest - Crown Of Horns
Rosali - Mouth

14th July 2024

Titus writes:

Mr Airplane Man are an American band that I have followed closely from their formation in 1998 to the present day. At that time the current members of the band, Margaret Garrett (guitar) & Tara McManus (drums) experimented with other band members but always preferred playing as a twosome.  The band was formed under the advice of Mark Sandman, who at the time was frontman for Morphine.  The two girls met each other when they were both 10, but later lost touch when they went to separate colleges.  Margaret & Tara come from Boston, Massachusetts, and they have been reported as playing Blues rock, rock & roll, garage punk and garage rock.  In their own words, they describe themselves as “A mishmash of deep love for Mississippi hill country blues, Memphis, weirdo rock & roll, drony VU, Boston garage beat and pop wonderment".
 
Their discography is slightly complex, in that they released their first album ‘Red Lite’ in 2001, ‘Moanin’ ’ in 2002 and ‘C’mon DJ’ in 2004.  After this, their third album, the duo went on hiatus which they put down to lack of inspiration.  During this gap in their career, they were asked to appear at a festival in Germany, and Margaret & Tara decided to reunite for this.  They subsequently released an EP in 2012 called ‘Shaking Around’, which coincided with the time they were asked to open for The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The White Stripes and The Strokes.
 
In 2014 the band released an LP called ‘The Lost Tapes’ from 1999 – this was a collection of unreleased recordings, and also  ‘Mr Airplane Man’ from 1998, which should have been their first album (I told you their discography is slightly complex!) and included Mark Sandman. The duo are known to be very serious musicians,  have always been well received and have a cult following.  Both ‘Moanin’’ and ‘C’mon DJ’ were both released on the Sympathy for the Record Industry label – a record company that had The White Stripes, Hole, & The Electrocutes signed up to it, so this was illustrious company for Margaret & Tara.  Sympathy for the R.I. has become an iconic label, formed in 1988 by John Mermis, also known as Long Gone John - he is their owner & CEO.  Just to add to his C.V., John is also a serious record collector, owning over 10,000 records.  He also owns Necessaries Toy Foundation (they create 18-24 inch figures apparently) and he also runs the Sympathetic Press, which prints books with rock’n’roll themes.  In 2007, Long Gone John announced on My Space (I think this was one of Facebook’s predecessors) that he was selling the Sympathy for the R.I. label for $625,000 ......or $700,000 “if I don’t like you”.

One thing that has really impressed me is Margaret’s mastery of the slide guitar, which if you play the video on You Tube of ‘Jesus on the Mainline’ from the ‘ Moanin’ ‘ album, you see what I mean.  In 2016, the duo relocated to Los Angeles to pursue music in the film/TV industry, and of note, if you ever get to see a film called ‘Crazy Eyes’ , you’ll hear their music. The band are still moving ahead strongly nowadays, and in 2018 released their sixth  album ‘Jacaranda Blue’.  My favourite from all of their music is the title track from the ‘C’mon DJ’ album, but I have asked lex to play a different version than is on the original 2004 LP. This was recorded and filmed by Guerrilla Monster Films in Memphis in 2014, and can be found here.

12th July 2024

Click HERE to listen again or to download the podcast (downloading & playing is more reliable). 

Buster Bloodvessel - Come on England
Bilbao Kung-Fu - Oh!
Waxahatchee - A Little More
White Lies - Death
The Temper Trap - Love Lost
The Dead Milkmen - Punk Rock Girl
The Vaccines - If You Wanna (Glastonbury 2024)
Performance - Modern Nature
Nits - The Tree
Belgrado - Jeszcze Raz
Emily Wurramara - Magic Woman Dancing
The Drop - Sports Team
Benzen & Binau - Tune in Your Radio
Soapbox - Fascist Bob
La Poison - Le Monde Va Mal
La Femme - Sacatela
Pistol - Cigarettes After Sex

In the ever-evolving landscape of punk rock, the band Soapbox stands as a testament to the enduring power of raw energy, social consciousness, and unyielding authenticity. Emerging from the underground scene, Soapbox has carved out a niche for themselves with their electrifying performances, thought-provoking lyrics, and commitment to the do-it-yourself (DIY) ethos that has been a hallmark of punk since its inception. This blog about them delves into the band's musical journey, their impact on the punk community, and the unique qualities that set them apart.
Soapbox's inception can be traced back to a group of friends united by a shared passion for punk rock and a desire to use music as a platform for change. From their early days playing in small, gritty venues, the band quickly developed a reputation for their high-octane live shows and uncompromising sound. Drawing inspiration from punk legends like The Clash, Dead Kennedys, and Minor Threat, Soapbox's music is characterized by fast-paced rhythms, aggressive guitar riffs, and anthemic choruses that inspire both moshing and contemplation.
Over the years, Soapbox has evolved musically while staying true to their punk roots. Their discography reflects a blend of traditional punk elements with influences from other genres, creating a distinctive sound that is both familiar and refreshingly original. This musical versatility has allowed them to appeal to a broad audience, from hardcore punk enthusiasts to casual listeners who appreciate their dynamic style and potent message.
One of the defining features of Soapbox is their dedication to addressing social and political issues through their lyrics. The band's name itself suggests a platform for speaking out, and they have consistently used their music to voice concerns about injustice, inequality, and the struggles of the disenfranchised. Songs like "Broken System" and "Voices Unheard" tackle topics such as systemic corruption, environmental degradation, and the plight of marginalized communities.
Soapbox's lyrics resonate deeply with fans who see the band as not just musicians, but also as activists. In an era where many artists shy away from controversial topics, Soapbox confronts them head-on, sparking conversations and encouraging listeners to think critically about the world around them. This fearless approach to songwriting has earned them a dedicated following who find both solace and inspiration in their music.
A Soapbox concert is more than just a musical performance; it is an experience. Known for their energetic and interactive shows, the band creates an electric atmosphere that draws the audience in and makes them a part of the performance. Whether playing in a packed club or at a sprawling festival, Soapbox's live shows are characterized by their intensity, passion, and the palpable connection between the band and their fans.
The physicality of their performances, with members often diving into the crowd or climbing stage structures, embodies the rebellious spirit of punk. This raw, unfiltered energy is a key element of their appeal, ensuring that each show is a unique and unforgettable event.
In an industry often dominated by commercial interests, Soapbox has steadfastly adhered to the DIY principles that are central to punk ideology. They take pride in managing many aspects of their career independently, from recording and producing their albums to designing their merchandise and organizing tours. This hands-on approach not only gives them creative control but also reinforces their authenticity and integrity.
Soapbox's DIY ethic extends to their involvement in the local music scene. They frequently collaborate with other independent artists, participate in benefit concerts, and support grassroots movements. By fostering a sense of community and solidarity, they contribute to the vibrancy and resilience of the punk scene, proving that punk is not just a genre but a way of life.
Beyond their music, Soapbox is known for their innovative visual aesthetics. Their album art, music videos, and promotional materials are often striking and thought-provoking, reflecting the themes and messages of their songs. Collaborating with visual artists and filmmakers, the band ensures that their artistic vision is cohesive and impactful, adding another dimension to their work.
Soapbox embodies the enduring spirit of punk rock through their relentless energy, socially conscious lyrics, and unwavering commitment to the DIY ethos. Their journey from underground venues to becoming a beacon of authenticity and activism in the punk community is a testament to the power of music as a force for change. As they continue to evolve and inspire, Soapbox remains a vital and vibrant part of the punk landscape, reminding us all of the importance of speaking out, standing up, and staying true to our principles.

8th July 2024

Titus writes:

 

As many of you know, I was going to write about The Vaccines last week, but I was so impressed with PJ Harvey’s set at Glastonbury, that I just had to write about it first.

 

The Vaccines are an English 4 piece band, and I suppose if one has to label them, they could be classed as playing Indie Rock. Their formation came as late as 2010 in London, and the current line up is Justin Hayward-Young (apparently no relation to the Moody Blues stalwart),  Arni Arnason, Timothy Lanham & Yoann Intonti.  Just to inform you via my legendary “Not a lot of people know that” series, Hayward-Young is the great grandson of the prolific English painter and artist Walter Hayward-Young, a.k.a. ‘Jotter’.  The Vaccines have been the ‘warm up’ act for the Rolling Stones, Arctic Monkeys, Muse and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers amongst others.  A year after formation, the band made the first of their six studio albums ‘What did you expect from The Vaccines?’, and the LP became the best selling album of 2011 in the U.K.   Following on from this album, there were 5 further studio LP’s : ‘Come of Age’ (2012), ‘English Graffiti’ (2015), ‘Combat Sports’ (2018), ‘Back in Love City’ (2021), and ‘Pick-Up full of Pink Carnations’ (2024) which is mentioned shortly.

 

Zane Lowe in particular was particularly praiseworthy of them, saying that ‘If you wanna’ (from the above album) was “The hottest record in the World”, and that praise was complemented by ‘Clash’ magazine who stated that The Vaccines could help bring in a new era for good guitar music.   The band re-wrote history by appearing on the TV show ‘Later with Jools Holland’ BEFORE releasing a single.  Such was the band’s initial popularity, that a gig in Kentish Town quickly sold out and around 200 people were turned away. 

 

By September last year, the band had recorded its sixth studio album, the aforementioned  ‘Pick-up full of Pink Carnations’, and The Vaccines announced an accompanying U.K./U.S./European Tour. The LP was released in January  2024.  I mentioned winning an award earlier on, and in addition the band have won ‘Best emerging talent’ (Quintessentially Awards); ‘Best new band’ (NME); ‘New Music Award’ (XFM) and ‘Best foreign new Act’ (Swedish GAFFA Awards). They were also nominated at the MTV Awards, The Brits, and The Mojo Awards.

 

As I mentioned PJ Harvey’s performance at Glastonbury earlier on, I think it only fitting to request Lex to play a Vaccines live recording from the same weekend, which is the classic ‘If you wanna’ and can be found here.  I don’t know about you, but I reckon, that despite being written around thirteen years ago, it still sounds pretty darn good. I sincerely believe that they have become one of the best Indie Bands on the circuit, and have maintained a high standard in the fourteen years they have been in the business.