FROM COVER TO COVER

' What the fuck did they do to that song? ' is usually the phrase that pops into my head when watching the 'Glee' kids attempts to recreate some of the best music ever written. It is also the phrase that pops into my head when every pop-rock band on youtube attempts to recreate any rock anthem they think they can pull off. Then, there's  the bands who contributed to the 'Punk Goes Crunk' album who just make you laugh at the thought of emo kids in tights taking the piss out of RnB, Rap and Hip Hop.

I come across bitchy but I'm getting to the point. The point of this post is to celebrate the artists who managed to not only successfully showcase the talent of their idols by paying tribute to their music, but enhance it by translating the lyrics and the music into other genres and other styles. A good tribute can be moving, a good tribute can outdo the original version and a good tribute has the power to move us listeners just as much. 

Louie Louie - Richard Berry (1957)

This song has left a mark in music history generally, and not simply in that of one specific genre. Originally released in 1957 by doo-wop artists Richard Berry, the rock standard bore no resemblance to the song most of us know as Louie Louie. It has been re-released by artists such as Black Flag,Joan Jett, The Beach Boys, The Stooges, Zappa, The White Stripes and The Clash to name a few. The song has been ruined by some and perfected by others but the only thing we know for sure is that however much the lyrics may have changed as it passed from one artist to another, Louie Louie's rhythm is one we all recognise and love. 

It was the American band 'The Kingsmen' who were the first to record a version of 'Louie Louie' and it was released  in 1963. The band took Berry's smooth, easy going ballad and turned it into a more up tempo romp complete with backround chatter, roaring guitar strums and adapted lyrics. From them, it fell into the hands of 'Paul Revere & the Raiders' and between then and now, 'Louie Louie' has become the 2nd most recorded song, after 'Yesterday' by The Beatles.

In my opinion, Toots & Maytals,The Kinks and Motorhead are those who paid tribute to the song in the best possible way by presenting it in their own styles, with their own ideas and unique twists whilst keeping the true essence of the song alive.

Hallelujah - Leonard Cohen (1984)

Originally written and sung by the great Leonard Cohen, 'Hallelujah' is a song that I believe has been paid tribute to in the most beautiful ways. Leonard Cohen released it in 1984 on his LP 'Various Positions' which also featured a fellow masterpiece 'Dance me to the end of time.' What people don't understand about Cohen is that he was a poet. His lyrics are not just good, they are breath taking and heart felt which is why although this song was not perfected vocally by him and although the emotions he felt were not translated into the verses he sung, it had the potential to be magical when sung by the right voice.  This magic was found in the voices of several artists: John Cale, Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright and K.D Lang. The song is still paid tribute to by big names in the music world but in my opinion, the song can be left alone now as it has been perfected.

'Love is not a victory march, it's a cold and it's a broken Hallelujah'

Fever - Little Willie John (1956)

Madonna, Jessica Bunny, Elvis and The Doors; what do they all have in common? FEVER.

The song, orginally written by Eddie Cooley and John Davenport in 1956 and recorded by Little Willie John. The confusion over who sang the song originally proves that Johns version of the song did not make the mark that others did and thus he is sadly forgotten. The first to release a cover of the song was Peggy Lee who also added lyrics to the song which she claimed no credit for. It became Lee's signature song and was nominated for 'Record of the Year' in 1958 for her interpretation of it. After her, numerous artists from various music genres experimented with the song. Elvis Presley released it in 1960 and Madonna brought it back in 1992 on her 'Erotica' album.

The L.A psychobilly band, The Cramps, released their rendition of 'Fever' in 1980 as their 3rd single. Personally, although  in my opinion, the likes of  The Kingsmen, James Brown and Eva Cassidy did the best job in re creating the song, The Cramps surprisingly captured the essence of the original song yet still portrayed what they are known for:  rockabilly, spook and ever changing tempos. 

It has been recorded by so many musicians that it is impossible to know all the versions in order to say which is best but in my opinion, the Kingsmen who are notorious for their killer covers, have done Little WIllie John proud by completely showing off the sexy rhythm and sweaty lyrics.

                                                  

                                                            

                                  INSANE COVERS OF INSANE SONGS:

- Die, Die my Darling ( The Misfits ) - Metallica

  The song originally composed by Glen Danzig and released by irreplaceable horror punk band ' The misfits' as their sixth single in 1984. Metallica recorded and released their version of the song for their 'Garage Inc.' album of 1998. From one great group of musicians to another, this song which has been called 'boring' on several accounts was brought back to life and in my opinion, its a tune. Metallica stayed true to the vibe of the song and made no attempt to change it  showing respect for the song and its composer.

-Rocket Man ( Elton John ) - Kate Bush , The Nixons

I found it really hard to chose one cover to present so I decided I'd present two.

 Before I talk covers, I would like to say that this song was written by both Elton John and Bernie Taupin in 1972. Elton John may have done an outstanding job performing it, but it's obvious that Taupin hasn't been getting the credit he deserves for writing this masterpiece. It was a combined effort but the lyrics were based on his visions and his thoughts and without him we wouldn't have it. so thank you Bernie Taupin. 

          Kate Bush was the first to re create the song in 1991. Her reggae inflected version of the song is outstanding and her voice combined with Taupins lyrics produced something magical. Bush's version is probably the most memorable one up till date, regardless of the numerous musicians who have tried to put their touch on the piece.

          The Nixons, an American grunge band of the 90's really did something with the song in my opinion. They recorded and released it in 1999 on their 'Scrapbook' EP. Before hearing their version of 'Rocketman' I never imagined that they would be able to do it justice but they surprised me, as they have on other occasions with other tracks. Adding the harsh guitar intro and heavy drums to the original music honestly did make it something good and I commend t hem on their effort. I, for one, can still hear the passion in the lyrics.

- Blitzkrieg Bop ( Ramones ) - Rob Zombie 

This isn't just a song, this is a cult. It was written by Dee Dee and Tommy Ramone and released on  the bands debut album 'Ramones' in 1976 in the USA. The song was covered (and is probably still being covered) by bands all over the globe. Stand out performances for me are the versions by German punk band Die Toten Hossen, Screeching Weasel and the Hanson Brothers.

          Regardless of how much I love this guy, and regardless of the fact that everything he does is great whether it's film or music, I believe that the best version of this song was done by Rob Zombie. The song was released on his 1993 album 'Past, Present and Future' and also featured on the tribute to the Ramones 'We're a Happy Family.' What I love about his re creation of 'Blitzkrieg Bop' is that from the intro, you know it's Rob Zombie and the way the instruments are played is so characteristic of his music, but you can't miss the familiar chipper rhythm of the song as performed by the Ramones. He stayed true to himself and his style whilst paying his respects to the Ramones and I love the result. I listen to this more than I listen to the original and I think that if you find a version of a song that relates to you more than the original, you have discovered the beauty of cover songs.

     

         

There are so many other songs I would like to discuss but I think the ones I chose are songs that will never ever die. My advice to any bands looking to be cover bands:

Look up to bands like 'Me First and the Gimme Gimmes' who have taken on some of the biggest songs of all times and have adapted them to fit their own style.

The band is known for its up tempo SKA influenced style and album after album, you find fresh, original versions of songs that have made a mark in music history. 

Don't try to be the band you admire. Be Innovative.

xxx

THE AFTER PARTY PEOPLE

so I talk about the people who listen to music, the people who make music, the people who help sell music but what about the people who are obsessed with the people who make music? 

No...not the loyal fans...the groupies. Lets talk about the groupies.

Urban Dictionary says that by definition a groupie is: 'A young woman, often under age, who seeks to achieve status by having sex with rock musicians, roadies, security, and other band-related guys. '

 I reject the implication that a groupie is a term referring solely to women so I decided I'd correct this crappy definition as we all know that girl bands from the Runaways to Bikini Kill all had Groupies... and if I'm not mistaken they weren't all 'under age girls.' 

So by Christina's definition a groupie is: ' An extreme fan, male or female, who seeks to achieve status or publicity by having sex with, stalking or simply freaking out musicians.Not roadies or security guards.'

I wanna introduce some of the most successful groupies. Now, that sentence is pathetic- I know, but if the term 'groupie' brings up 10,500,000 results on google then I guess it should make for an interesting blog post.
PS. it is a complete coincidence that most of the people I plan on mentioning are female.

PAMELLA ANN MILLER ( Later Pamella Des Barres )

Pamella was your regular teenage dreamer. She grew up in Los Angeles and regularly fantasized about future relations with  Paul MacCartney and Mick Jagger. ( to name a few )  What separates her from many of the other girls fantasizing about sexual relations with their idols in the 1960's is that she actually put those plans into action.

 Dan Van Vliet ( Captain Beefheart ) was the one to get her settled in the LA rock music scene. Without him and the circles he ran in, Pam would never have met Bill Wyman and she wouldn't of met Frank Zappa and she definitely wouldn't have ended up babysitting his children. Her job as a babysitter scored her even more connections and those connections led to much fantasized sexual relations with Mick Jagger (one of many) and 'friendships' with Jimmy Page, Keith Moon, Noel Redding ( played in Jimi Hendrix band ), Gram Parson (of the Byrds)  and Don Johnson ( actor and musician). 

Here comes the part where groupies start to really piss me off. They get in with the musicians and next thing you know they are opening act for Zappa's band ' Mothers of Invention.' She scored a place in the all girl group 'The GTO's' formed by her bestie Frank Zappa. The fact that the line up consisted of Pam and another 7 fellow groupies implies that they were being rewarded for their 'services' and the fact that they were referred to as more of an enigma that a band ( due to the fact that none of them were actual musicians ) also implies that they didn't deserve the credit they got in the first place. So yeah, hope you understand why young musicians such as myself might be annoyed that a bunch of groupies supported Zappa on tour and we're in the UK writing about them.

She later married Michael Des Barres from 'Detective' and 'Silverhead' 

Now, I know that I may have been quite harsh so here is where I give her the credit she deserved. She said she'd do it, and she did it. She said she'd be with the band and she was. She said she'd witness rock history in the makings and she did, so for that, I admire you Pam.Read 'I'm with the band' which she wrote to let us all in on the life of the 'it groupie' of her generation.

19 years of age..19 years of inspiration - TO BE CONTINUED...

It's 3:44 AM and as the dedicated blogger that I am, I have decided that it is about time that this much researched project becomes a post.

I have been alive for 19 whole years; 6935 days. In those 6935 days more than 18 killer albums have been released by more than 18 killer bands and this post is dedicated to the ones that have inspired me. I don't care if they are of no interest to you and I don't care if they haven't inspired you, touched you or influenced you. This is my blog and it's all about me. 

This is my life in albums...


1991

- SNFU - The Last of the Big Time Suspenders  - SNFU have always been one of my top 5 bands. The fact that the release of this album marked the reunion of this band automatically places it in my 'favorote albums' list. Although it is not on this album, listen to ' Painful Reminder' and if after having listened to it you are not a fan then you obviously don't get what punk is about.

 - Dire Straits - On Every Street - 'You only get one life - this I know, I wanna get my licks in now before I go.' Basically, the lyrics of 'When It Comes To You' are an example of why I respect and idolize Dire Straits. This album alone ( not to mention the many other killer releases), is enough to get you to feel the same. this Blues, Jazz and rock influenced talent struck band is and ought to be globally renownded and it is my request that they are never forgotten.

1992

- Sublime - 40oz. to Freedom -  Reggae, ska yet hardcore punk. I am pretty sure that everyone has at some time or other listened to Sublime. R.I.P Bradley Nowell. Sublime not only bring originality to the table, but bring a vibe of their own too. Sublime; we salute you. Listen to 'waiting for my Ruca' if you want to experience music from a completely alternative yet weird point of view...you will get hooked; I know it. 

 


- Rage Against the Machine - Rage Against the Machine - I'm not gonna lie...I was introduced to RATM by my guitar teacher; the most inspirational man I have yet to meet. Sitting in the bleachers of my school listening to 'Know Your Enemy', I though I was the coolest girl in year 7. Now I realize that this image I had painted of myself was justified. Rage Against the Machine were, are and will always be one of the most talented group of musicians...fact. Their harsh lyrics and the whole concept of combining hip hop and the killer strumming of Tom Morello into one song is genius and the mark they made in music history will remain. Listen to 'Know your Enemy.' I have nothing else to say.




1993 

-  Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dreams - A force. Smashing Pumpkins are a force and their second album 'Siamese Dreams' showcases their talent, originality and boundary pushing. Lyrically and musically ace. Pop, Heavy Metal & Rock...they got it all! Listen to 'Silverfuck' if you have yet to understand why I'm singing their praises. ( many seem to disagree with my opinion of them?)

1994

- NOFX - Punk in Drublic - The official Innovators: playing gigs at the most hardcore venues, writing some of punks biggest masterpieces based on matters that make you think. They say we are NOFX and we don't care of this offends you, confuses you or makes you laugh...fuck convention. Doing things there own way , they released Punk In Drublic in 1994 bringing yet another 18 pure genius songs to their already slamming discography. Listen to 'Reeko' by far my favorite track off this album.

- The Rolling Stones - Voodoo Lounge -  Released after Jaggers solo effort with 'Wandering Spirit' this album takes fans back to before the years of 'Tattoo you' and into Rolling Stone past. Obviously, we all know that this is not the stones best album, as history lies between tracks on albums such as 'Aftermath' and 'Beggers Banguet' however I like to think of this 1994 one as the rolling stones stripped of everything but their pure talent and passion. We see the Rolling Stones having fun with tehir talent and doing what they do best. The tracks suggest 'we love this' as apose to the 'you will love this' vibe given off from past records. Truth be told, whatever the vibe, the stones will always be the stones; untouchable and irreplacable in rock and roll history. Personally, the killer on this album is 'New Faces.' As apose to other songs on the album, it doesn't remind me of tracks on 'Tattoo you' or 'Steel Wheels.'

 1995

- Rancid -And out come the wolves - with songs like the ones on Rancids third album released in 1995, is it any wonder why they are one of the only bands who made it to the mid 90s punk scene unchanged and still coming out with their original, ska influenced catchy tunes? The album went platinum in 2004. Rancid, with this album released at the time it was, revived the true meaning of punk and kept it out there in the pop dominated 90s. Personally, I believe that the killer on this album is 'Roots Radical' because as well as being an amazing song, the actual roots of the song are fascinating to...look it up. Of course, 'Ruby Soho' and 'Timebomb' being monumental songs, added to the all around success of this album.

 

Cuz they don't die out

        

 On youtube today, the most viewed videos are those being released by artists such as Shakira, Lady Gaga, Taio Cruz and other known names of the Pop world. In a years time, it will be those being released by the new and improved versions of Lady Gaga and artists who like her, push boundaries and test fashion and musics dos and don'ts. Domination of the music scene is of no interest to me and don't get me wrong, I am by no means questioning their success. The point I am trying to make is that in my opinion, all these one minute crazes have accomplished nothing in comparison to bands that may not rule in youtube hits or twitter followers, but have survived 10 years in a business now being swept away by commercial music...how?

                                              

                                           Quality, Meaning & Dedication.

       

This post is dedicated to Lagwagon, Bad Astronaut, Hot Water Music, Thrice & Pennywise. These are five of the many bands who may not have climbed to number one on the billboard charts but they sure did make their mark in music, and even today, with so much music controversy and variety, fans are loyal and their music is still heard.

Thrice (1998)                                         Pennywise (1988)

In the 7th grade, I had a friend who had exceptional taste in music. He was quite a few years older than me in school and although I was already passionate about music, I did learn alot from him. He made me numerous CDs of things he thought I'd like and that's when I was introduced to bands such as 'Thrice', 'Bad Astronaut' , 'Hot Water Music' and 'NOFX'.  From the time I got those CD's, I started digging into websites and noticed that some of the best music is the music that you don't hear in big stadium concerts and don't see on the headlines on music channels, but even today, six years from the time I was introduced to such bands, their influence passes through generations and such music is eternal, irreplacable and always respected.

Hot Water Music (1993)                          Bad Astronaut (2000)

                       

    A man worth admiring is Joey Cape: Lead Vocalist of Lagwagon & Bad Astronaut and guitarist in Me First and the Gimme Gimmes. There is something amazing about the three projects he contributed to. Bad Astronauts lyrics are like no other of their time...deep and about deep emotion and personal issues. Their album 'Houston: We Have a Drinking Problem' released in 2002 is still one of my favorite albums. Me First and he Gimme Gimmes are in my opinion the best cover band in punk rock. Their original take on some of the most classic songs of all time is truely a joy to listen to and not simply guitar and drums in the backround of a cult song. Lagwagon showcased a new take on punk rock in the 1990's; very fresh.The fact that Cape was able to transform himself and experiment with music with his own bands Lagwagon and Bad Astronaut and then play a key role in another band shows dedication to music, eagerness to be involved and passion to keep going.

Lagwagon (1990)

the man behind the posters

         So let me set the scene: You're walking down the street heading for the bus stop, or waiting for a friend on a  corner...what are you surrounded by other than people, dog shit, honking cars and buildings? or better yet, what do you see on every street corner, on every electricity poles or bus stop? Posters. A never ending supply of reminders of upcoming gigs and festivals all attempting to attract your attention with bright colours and busy fonts. Some you may look at, out of boredom, out of curiosity or maybe just because the backround is so bright that you can't help but look...but have you ever sat and wondered who the person behind these posters is? Have you ever imagined the amount of things he/she has seen, musicians he's talked to, labels he's nagotiated with? Probably not, and yeah...I hadn't either until I came across 'Secret Serpents' (http://secretserpents.wordpress.com) a blog dedicated not only to the musicians, but to the artists behind the covers and the posters that inform you and me that this band is ready to get loud..make an impact or simply be introduced.

Little recognition but a hell of a lot of memories I bet!

  Now, I may call myself a musician, but an artist in the sense of art & design I am not...and although my passion lies in other fields as well as music, I had never realised the talent behind these album covers, or behind the posters I see online. In a nutshell, the fact that one man alone, for example Alan Forbes, the man who is responsible for the creations  have showcased in this post, has worked with the likes of  AC/DC, Rage Against the Machine, Black Crows, Sonic Youth, Queens of the Stone Age and an insane amount of other ace musicians strikes me as quite an achievement.

 Alan Forbes - Artist/Designer of rock band posters, symbols and album covers.

The Mud! The Music! The Mayhem!

Andy Whitton Photography (NME) - Dead Weather's Jack White

GLASTONBURY 2010
If your not already dying to be there to witness music history in the makings then im sure that these shots will get you as obsessed with the yearly event as I am.I have lived in Greece where although in the past few years we have had some killer names appear on stage before us, the music scene will never compair to that of the United states of K ... Glastonbury is my dream and now, living in the UK, I feel one step closer to it...so 2011 here I come... and for those of you who have not been quite comvinced yet... Glasto isn't going anywhere soon, so you have years to get there hopefully - for your sake; for OUR sake, I hope so.

Andy Whitton Photography (NME)

Dan Dennison Phptography (NME)  

Dan Dennison Photography (NME)

Dan Dennison Photography (NME) - Wayne Coyne - Flaming Lips

Tom Oxley Photography (NME) - Florence - Florence & the Machine       

We are everywhere Greece...Even at the pyramid stage

...and ofc the fashion idols... all of them

Homing in on royalty & Blur...TOGETHER?

 and this is why I am what I am....because there are places where Prince Charles & Alex North (Blur) can co-exist.... where both Kylie Minogue and Bat for Lashes can perform on the same stage...and where Snoop can chill backstage with the Yeah Yeah Yeah's.  

xx

Music & Moods : friends or foes?

Waking up to a tidy room this morning put me in a good mood...sipping coffee and smoking the first cig of the day, the unique tunings of the 'Dirty Projectors' couldn't be a better soundtrack for what I'm feeling - total bliss. Being in a city that I love, living with flat mates that are ace and knowing that I'm here to do exactly what I've always wanted to do has affected my music choices drastically. The point I'm trying to make is that whether you are aware of it or not, our music choices portray what we are feeling, every minue of every day ( as long as the musics on )

I have attached bands to the most distinct of moods.. this is personal but keep this list in mind and you might just agree - and even if you don't, you'll have discovered a few kick-ass bands that you'll love ( if you don't already)

CALM ( everything is fine, your mind is clear and you are chilling )

1)  Dirty Projectors - simple but unique sounds with the divine voice of  Angel Deradoorian. Easy to listen to and the lack of loud guitar strums and beating drums will help keep you that peaceful state of mind.
Listen to : Stillness is a Move

2) Florence & the Machine - I'm sure that most of you are fans and frankly, why wouldn't you be? With  a voice and with music so powerful yet so  gentle and that almost dreamy vibe it's almost hard not to love her!
Although songs like 'Hardest of Hearts' & 'You've got the Love' may also fall under the 'Sad' & 'positive' mood categories, i think that the majority of her discography will act as the perfect soundtrack to your chillaxing days in.
Listen to : Swimming

ANGRY ( I have loads for this to be fair, anger is something that I fee on a daily basis but the music I listen to when I'm angry happens to be some of my favorite music anyway! )

1) Rise Against - Have to be one of my favorite bands of all time! Both musically & lyrically untouchable.If you like 'Minor Threat' or the kings of USA punk 'Black Flag' then you will love Rise Against, as it has been said ( and to be fair is obvious) that Tim Mcllrath and the band are influenced by them!
Listen to : Savior

2) The Pretty Reckless ( Yes, guilty pleasure.. little Ms.Taylor Momsen may be of my least favorite teen starts and her character in Gossip Girl pisses me off BUT gotta hand it to you...she can sing and she can write and her band is quite strong. However, for a 16 year old her lyrics are quite dramatic - hard to believe that she has been made to feel like she wats to die )
Listen to: My Medicine

3)  Archive ( Insanely penetrating lyrics and the simplest of sounds - lethal combination when you're spiralling downwards )
Listen to : Fuck You Anyway

4) Slipknot ( what better to blast on full volume and a bit of a bash? )

Listen to : Dead Memories

5) Disco Ensemble ( not only is Mikka Koivisto insanely good looking , but this finnish post hardcore / indie punk band have been one of my steady favorites since their first album Viper Ethics (2003 if im not mistaken?) they just can't go wrong)
Listen to : Worst Night Out

 

...And the list goes on and on.... I will, at some point, dedicate a whole post just to this

HAPPY ( whether you're happy due to a boy/girl, due to the weather, due to an achievement or just for the fucking sake of being happy, I am 99.9%  sure that these bands with compliment your mood!)

1) Sublime ( there is definitely something that screams happy about most ska punk bands regardless of what the song itself migght be saying through lyrics and in my opinion sublime is one of the best examples )
Listen to : Santeria ( and if you have good summer memories... remenisce while it;s playing and it will just make you smile )

2) Arctic Monkeys , The Kooks & Jamie T ( I'm not saying that these 3 bands are similar enough to place them in one group, bt they have the same effect on me... I smile for no reason and I get bubbly feelings! Love them to bits and I'm sure you do too! something about the distinct accents and the sunny sounds! )
Listen to : Old Yellow Bricks , Eddies Gun and Sheila

3) Ida Maria ( kick ass voice, kick ass lyrics and kick ass music. said enough? old school influences and an old school vibe yet so new and fresh! )
Listen to : Stella

4) The Beatles ( No, I'm not just honouring my new hometown but the boys have got that something that just make you smile...from Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds to Come Together, they have me smiling! the old school quality of their recordings together with their playful and smiley live perfomances rightfully started the craze  'Beatlemania' and rightfully keep it up today, so many years later. Timeless and Irreplacable.
Listen to : She loves you 

  SAD ( Angry and Sad are two of my default moods. I'm a happy person by nature, but just like moods affect the music you choose to listen to, I believe that your music choices can also affect your mood..so that may be why )

1) Lifehouse ( Jason Wade's voice is surely a big part of lifehouses' effect on me... soft, beautiful and very expressive.  A big part of a touching song is the voice - and the voice with no feeling is pointless..he proves this. Famous for 'Hanging By a Moment' and many other songs which have fetured in famous romantic films over the years, Lifehouse will comfort you as you get comfy with Ben&Jerrys and a pack of cigs.
Listen to : Broken

2) Band of Horses ( Oh my God, kill me... The most eerie of voices and the saddest of tunes...but oh so beautiful. Ben Bridwell you kill me dude! )
Listen to: The Funeral ( and put the volume on max for full effect)

3)  The Kills ( Alison Mosshart , also known from the 'Dead Weather' - Jack White's latest band, in my opinion is the ultimate rocky front woman: Gorgeous, Expressive and Talented. The old-school, kind of grungy sound compliments a down day just as much as the white stripes compliment empty )
Listen to: Balck Balloon

So, I've basically opened up to the fullest ( musically of course! ) and I'd love to know who agrees and who does not.. who likes what and who likes not. xxx

tune of the hour

The shys - Easy on the Eyes
this band is one to look up... also check out 'call in the cavalry (ft. in 'Prom Night' the film)
night,
peace & love

Dub & D'n'B save the day

 check this out:

Quantum

whether you are in Greece or the Uk (or any other european country for that matter) you will notice and agree that Dubstep and Drum n Bass are Music 2010. I may not be the expert on D'n'B and Dub but I can safely say that I do see why as genres they have taken the music scene by storm...Whether on a beach in the coastal areas of Greece, in the warehouse clubs of Amsterdam or the student clubs of Liverpool, the blend of fast and slow beats and electronic loups set the ideal atmosphere for a good night out. The thing that I found so unique about the craze is that thanks to Dubstep and Drum'n'Bass, people (more specifically young people) have finally stopped labelling themselves musically - punks, glams, goths and trend setters all enjoy a bit of dubstep here and there. If the craze continues throughout 2010 will we finally become a label-less, open-minded, multi genric music society?

9..8...7...6...

9 days to go 'till my big move from Athens to Liverpool and so far the anxiety hasn't kicked in. Excitement yes, curiosity yes, and the urge to self discover and expand my horizons yes... 5 things that come to mind are concerts, people, fashion, music and a new, fresh, vibrant city that I can't wait to explore! The truth is that I have put a lot of pressure on myself and the expectations are high: find a band, get writing and play as many gigs as possible... live to the fullest and enjoy everything because these ARE the best years of your life... meet people that will help you grow as a person and make friends for life... make it through with your head held high and don't  let anybody let it fall - not even for a single second. show no weakness and show no fear cuz in the world we live in, you will get eaten alive. Good luck Christina... may the best man win

tune of the day

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wjZDX7Ij8M&feature=avmsc2

UK meet USA (to be continued)

Anybody who knows me will surely know that I have a weakness for good old UK punk. In order to show that regardless of this personal preference of mine, I am an open minded girl and I do love a variety of punk I am going to showcase the ultimate old school punk bands (in my opinion) 5 UK and 5 USA... The timeless debate over Punk leaders - UK or USA will never be drawn to a close and so I suggest that us punk lovers out there accept the talent in both types and embrace it all in one punktastic playlist...

           UK Subs (1976)
         
           - original punk that made it in the charts yet still remained insanely real.
           Claps for the Subversives
          
            LISTEN TO : Tomorrows Girls

 Moving past the Uk subs with their ever changing line up and countless released and unreleased albums, the first USA band to be mentioned has to be

           The Ramones ( 1974 )

-2,263 concerts and still weren't the Kings of Commercial music but we all know that they were cited as the first Punk band ( to a great extent ) The Ramones crazw not only spread through the USA but hit the UK punk scene too, motivating young punk rockers to start their own shit and attempt to make their mark. and NO, they were not related... pseudonyms

       LISTEN TO : The Crusher
 

The Business ( 1979 )

- Closely associated o the Oi! movement, the band took a stance against political extremism. Several of their songs have also become UK Football anthems over the years ( most recently in 2001 )

LISTEN TO : Guinness Boys

REVIVAL

EDUCATED YOUTH

Despite the many flaws of my own generation, I will speak for all and say that what we lack in maths and science we make up for in music.  Spend an hour sitting at one of the teen hot-spots of your area and notice the children (and when I say children I mean 12-16 year olds) that pass by you and what they are wearing? You will be shocked by the number of Motley Crue, Iron Maiden, Ramones & Rolling Stones T shirts you see. One may say that it it due to Zara diamond encrusting the names of the most respected bands in history, others may say its simplya fashion statement and an attempt to fit in with tha group of cool kids who listen to cool music... Am I a dreamer to actually believe that in this sea of T shirts that strut their stuff by me everyday there are those few kids who wear the name of their idols across their chest out of respect and out of passion? because if so then I am a dreamer, and I'm proud of it...I refuse to believe that music is to such a great extent conenected to fashion, because if it were true, it would mean that music for what it is is underestimated, under appreciated and un important and this to me is tragic. If a child of 11 can appreciate the striking lyrics and gripping riffs of musicians of this level and this era then there is no excuse for us, the 18 year old leaders of our generation to narrow music down to hip hop and RnB and forget about 'those old men' of good old Rock n Roll.

The Age of Musical Sheep

In an age where society is made up of a flock of sheep who follow music trends as they do fashion trends simply to fit in, our musical preferences have to a great extent been sabotaged. In a world where music genres vary from tamla motown to christian rock why are we all so afraid to admit that deep down we actually sing along to Justin Bieber or to that one song by Avril Lavign that we love to hate?

The music industry is the center of open mindedness so why are we all so desperate to be the same? At the end of the day... I think that it's pretty cool to have Britney Spears and The Who on the same I-pod.. what's even cooler is having the guts to show your play lists to that one friend who will tease the crap out of you for it.