Recently on a flight from London to Calgary i tuned into a documentary that caught my attention but had never heard of.
Described as "The Bourne Identity meets Flipper", it had me outraged in my seat and captivated till the last frame. We all should watch this movie and in our own way try and support or make a difference.
Please check it out, I assure you that you will be shocked at what is going on.
http://www.thecovemovie.com/
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
This is not a list...
So here are 30 albums that enjoyed excessive rotation on my Ipod or Iriver or home CD player throughout the last decade..
They are not listed in any order as they are all great in their own right. I am sure several of these albums are also in your collection....let me know what you think...
The Streets - A Grand Don't Come for Free
Mike Skinner followed up Original Pirate Material with this 11 track offering in which a thousand quid was lost and then found. Along the way heartbreak was suffered and blurred nights were encountered. Personal favorite track was also his most successful single...Dry Your Eyes
The Arcade Fire - Funeral
Montreal's Arcade Fire released this album in September of 2004 and showed the world that Canadians can be the darlings of the indie music scene. With live shows that bordered on complete chaos and an immediate praise from the likes of David Bowie, The Arcade Fire's Funeral is from start to finish an epic first album that provoked both hope and despair.
Standout tracks for myself include "Wake up", "Rebellion", and neighborhood #1
Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I am Thats what Im Not
Who knew industrial england could rock so hard! I bet you look good on the dancefloor...hell ya i do!!!
Blackalicious - Nia
The first full length album to be released from California MC The Gift of Gab and producer / beat genius Chief Excel finds us on a journey back in time to when hip hop was important and had a conscious. Old school thoughts combined with new school technology brought us this record which refused to leave my home stereo for a solid year after first purchasing. Try and keep up with Gab on "A to G" or sit back and listen to the story on "Shallow Days". Without a doubt Nia is an important record that too many Little Wayne fans don't know exists.
Bloc Party - Silent Alarm
A sense of urgency bordering on panic brought on by upbeat tempos and drumming that even the best air drummer could not duplicate was what "Silent Alarm" was to me. I anticipated this release after hearing a few singles and was not disappointed in the least. They have yet to recapture the vibe or essence of this album on future recordings but continue to put out music that heralds some great remixes! For me this albums opener "Like eating Glass" and the self realizing "here we are" are my fav tracks.
Coldplay - X and Y
What can i say i like Chris Martin and his band plus "Fix You" is a pretty darn good song.
Daft Punk - Discovery
Welcome to what house music would sound like if you lived in space or spent quality time hanging out with aliens or Tron like figures. Try and sit still while playing this album and i will reckon you have issues. Kanye thought harder faster...was good enough to fool people years later into thinking it was his song.
Death Cab For Cutie - Plans
After the success of Transatlanticism the boys in Death Cab signed onto the majors and released "Plans". From the opening track of "Marching Bands of Manhattan" I was hooked. Chris Walla is both a great musician and a very talented producer, guiding the way on this record as well as the rest of their discography. Check out "Someday You Will Be Loved" and you too will have hope!
Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes
Brian Wilson's "Pet Sounds" lives on within this Portland Oregon outfit entitled "Fleet Foxes". The harmonies and rich soundscape type songs are instantly captivating. I for one am loving what is going on throughout the Portland area with this group as well as Blitzen Trapper.
Hot Chip - The Warning
I am still unable to accurately describe the feeling that came over me the first time i heard "Over and Over", but it was goooooooood. I love this album. I do I do I do. "Boy from School", "The Warning", "No Fit State" all still regularly find themselves on my playlists.
The Killers - Hot Fuss
What the hell do you mean you have a boyfriend that looks like a girlfriend i had in February??? All of a sudden its 1983 and synth rock is back with a vengeance! Only we are not in Europe or the UK we are in Las Vegas Nevada and its cool to be into Duran Duran again. Tell me you dont find yourself singing "i got soul but im not a soldier from time to time for no reason at all.
Radiohead - Kid A
This record came out in the first part of 2000 and it took me about five years to understand it. I think i was afraid at first that this was the new direction of music and i didnt quite understand it. Now having come to my senses i think it may just be the most important album of the last ten years. Thank you Radiohead for being ahead of all of us.
Interpol - Antics
I know what you are thinking right now...what the f**k is this doing on your list. I am not afraid to admit that i still listen to this album quite frequently. Its our generations Joy Division, and we all need a little depressed shoe gazing music in our lives. "Not Even Jail" is my goto track on this album for sure!
The Strokes - Is This It
Hey look at us! We are all magically transported to the east village of NYC and are hanging out in our skinny jeans and black shirts listening to Julian Casablancas mumble his way through potential legendary tracks like "Last Night" or "Someday".
Radiohead - In Rainbows
Pay what you want and stick your middle finger up to the major label thank you very much. Listen to Thom Yorke's voice on "Your all I Need", or when he says " i dont want to be your friend i only want to be your lover" on "House Of Cards". Its pretty damn close to being genius i would say.
Jay Z - The Blueprint
The ruler is back folks and its H to the IZZO. Even if you are a rock dude or a metal man you are grooving to the jigga we know as Jay Z. This record is a classic and a staple in your hip hop diet. Afterwards we had retirements , or the threat of a retirement that never really happened. Listen to "Girls Girls Girls" and then sit back and think that he has Beyonce on his arm. The ruler indeed!
Johnny Cash - American IV The Man Comes Around
Thanks to Rick Ruben and his pyjama wearing production guidance we were blessed with several new recordings from the man they call Cash. Trent Reznor has said that "Hurt" is no longer his song and if you listen to Johnny Cash barely make it through singing this song without breaking down you will no why.
The Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night
Is my sex on fire? It sure is when i am singing this song at the top of my lungs in the shower. Caleb and his family hit the nail on the head with this record. To me its a commercial success without selling out. I anticipate how they plan on following this one up.
The Streets - Original Pirate Material
I remember my good friend Juice introducing me to this record and i was instantly hooked! Still i am unable to recite the lyrics with the same timing as Mr. Skinner, even though i know all the words. Its dark, its real, its gritty, and its not optimistic, but it is a classic in my library.
Ratatat - Classics
Who needs vocals when we have layered guitars like these! Maybe throw in a lion growl from time to time, but thats it!
Appropriately named , this record is a classic
The Killers - Sam's Town
Brandon Flowers may have shot himself in the foot by saying this record is one of the best of all time. Perhaps that was a little grand in thought, but it is in my books one of the better ones in the last ten years. "When we were YOung" is a rocker that gets you thinking about what is it thats going to save you? "For Reasons Unknown" still gives me shivers everytime i listen to it. Thank you Killers for putting out great records while not sticking to the formula of your initial success.
Tegan and Sara - The Con
In my eyes this is a masterpiece, and although i may be a tad biased, I strongly feel in my heart that this album is in a league of its own. Listen to the frantic tone in Tegan's voice on the title track, or relate a personal situation to album closer "Call it Off". Thank you Tegan and Sara for creating this record, we needed it in JUly of 2007 when you gave it to us.
Eminem - The Eminem Show
Dear Eminem or Mr.Mathers you scare the crap out of me! With a sharp tongue and unmatched wit and lyricism you have been able to get under the skin of celebrities, politicians, housewives, moms, and the rest of us. Unsure if you are crazy or just pretending we have no idea what you are capable of. We are however thankful for your insight into pop culture and all things relevant to us...now just please dont kill me and stuff in the trunk of a car.
The Magic Numbers - The Magic Numbers
Heartache and love gone wrong brought to us by Romeo Stodart his sister MIchelle and the Ganon siblings Angela and Sean. This record is so poppy in parts it hurts, and so full of heartache it makes us wonder if love is ever worth it. "I see you you see me" is tough to listen to at the best of times. "Love me like you" has a bassline that will make you want to learn how to play the bass. "Hymn for Her" brought the glockenspiel back to the masses and although it is the album closer is arguably one of my favorites on this the debut record from The Magic Numbers.
The White Stripes - White Blood Cells
Who needs a bass player when you play guitar with this much passion, and sing with this much intensity. "Dead Leaves..." the opening track has me hooked thank you very much! Now Jack has 1000 bands and Meg is nowhere to be seen but this record still rocks out harder than most five piece acts of the past decade.
Wolfmother - Wolfmother
Everyone devil horns in the air and bang your head in unison please. Classic rock for the future is now upon us.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs - It's Blitz!
Karen O should scare you because she could easily kick your ass. New York's Yeah Yeah Yeahs deliver on all cylinders with this the follow up to "Fever to Tell". They blew me away at Bonnaroo this year and "its Blitz" continues to be in my most played playlist.
Silverchair - Young Modern
No longer Silverchair really and more like the Daniel Johns band, we have been fortunate to watch him grow, to suffer, to learn, and to release his epic orchestral musical offerings. "Straight lines" makes me feel optimistic and hopeful and should be required listening on a daily basis.
Band Of Horses - Cease To Begin
How much reverb is too much reverb?? who cares when it comes to this record. I friggen love all of it! "Is there a Ghost" and "The General Specific" are two of my favs on this 10 track record.
Wintersleep - Welcome to the Night Sky
Canadian and proud of it! This east coast band lived up to its hype and repuation with this full length release put out in 2007. I can safely say that i only listen to this album in its entirety from start to finish and i do so at least once a week. Closing track "Miasmal Smoke and the Yellow Bellied Freaks" is an audio visceral movie that plays out in my mind with scenes bigger than any hollywood blockbuster ever produced. Watch out for the follow up to this album as i hold no doubt it will be epic in its own right
Agree to disagree , its just my opinion. There is so much amazing music out there we are fortunate in this day and age to not have to sit around and see what the major labels are going to present to us.
They are not listed in any order as they are all great in their own right. I am sure several of these albums are also in your collection....let me know what you think...
The Streets - A Grand Don't Come for Free
Mike Skinner followed up Original Pirate Material with this 11 track offering in which a thousand quid was lost and then found. Along the way heartbreak was suffered and blurred nights were encountered. Personal favorite track was also his most successful single...Dry Your Eyes
The Arcade Fire - Funeral
Montreal's Arcade Fire released this album in September of 2004 and showed the world that Canadians can be the darlings of the indie music scene. With live shows that bordered on complete chaos and an immediate praise from the likes of David Bowie, The Arcade Fire's Funeral is from start to finish an epic first album that provoked both hope and despair.
Standout tracks for myself include "Wake up", "Rebellion", and neighborhood #1
Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I am Thats what Im Not
Who knew industrial england could rock so hard! I bet you look good on the dancefloor...hell ya i do!!!
Blackalicious - Nia
The first full length album to be released from California MC The Gift of Gab and producer / beat genius Chief Excel finds us on a journey back in time to when hip hop was important and had a conscious. Old school thoughts combined with new school technology brought us this record which refused to leave my home stereo for a solid year after first purchasing. Try and keep up with Gab on "A to G" or sit back and listen to the story on "Shallow Days". Without a doubt Nia is an important record that too many Little Wayne fans don't know exists.
Bloc Party - Silent Alarm
A sense of urgency bordering on panic brought on by upbeat tempos and drumming that even the best air drummer could not duplicate was what "Silent Alarm" was to me. I anticipated this release after hearing a few singles and was not disappointed in the least. They have yet to recapture the vibe or essence of this album on future recordings but continue to put out music that heralds some great remixes! For me this albums opener "Like eating Glass" and the self realizing "here we are" are my fav tracks.
Coldplay - X and Y
What can i say i like Chris Martin and his band plus "Fix You" is a pretty darn good song.
Daft Punk - Discovery
Welcome to what house music would sound like if you lived in space or spent quality time hanging out with aliens or Tron like figures. Try and sit still while playing this album and i will reckon you have issues. Kanye thought harder faster...was good enough to fool people years later into thinking it was his song.
Death Cab For Cutie - Plans
After the success of Transatlanticism the boys in Death Cab signed onto the majors and released "Plans". From the opening track of "Marching Bands of Manhattan" I was hooked. Chris Walla is both a great musician and a very talented producer, guiding the way on this record as well as the rest of their discography. Check out "Someday You Will Be Loved" and you too will have hope!
Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes
Brian Wilson's "Pet Sounds" lives on within this Portland Oregon outfit entitled "Fleet Foxes". The harmonies and rich soundscape type songs are instantly captivating. I for one am loving what is going on throughout the Portland area with this group as well as Blitzen Trapper.
Hot Chip - The Warning
I am still unable to accurately describe the feeling that came over me the first time i heard "Over and Over", but it was goooooooood. I love this album. I do I do I do. "Boy from School", "The Warning", "No Fit State" all still regularly find themselves on my playlists.
The Killers - Hot Fuss
What the hell do you mean you have a boyfriend that looks like a girlfriend i had in February??? All of a sudden its 1983 and synth rock is back with a vengeance! Only we are not in Europe or the UK we are in Las Vegas Nevada and its cool to be into Duran Duran again. Tell me you dont find yourself singing "i got soul but im not a soldier from time to time for no reason at all.
Radiohead - Kid A
This record came out in the first part of 2000 and it took me about five years to understand it. I think i was afraid at first that this was the new direction of music and i didnt quite understand it. Now having come to my senses i think it may just be the most important album of the last ten years. Thank you Radiohead for being ahead of all of us.
Interpol - Antics
I know what you are thinking right now...what the f**k is this doing on your list. I am not afraid to admit that i still listen to this album quite frequently. Its our generations Joy Division, and we all need a little depressed shoe gazing music in our lives. "Not Even Jail" is my goto track on this album for sure!
The Strokes - Is This It
Hey look at us! We are all magically transported to the east village of NYC and are hanging out in our skinny jeans and black shirts listening to Julian Casablancas mumble his way through potential legendary tracks like "Last Night" or "Someday".
Radiohead - In Rainbows
Pay what you want and stick your middle finger up to the major label thank you very much. Listen to Thom Yorke's voice on "Your all I Need", or when he says " i dont want to be your friend i only want to be your lover" on "House Of Cards". Its pretty damn close to being genius i would say.
Jay Z - The Blueprint
The ruler is back folks and its H to the IZZO. Even if you are a rock dude or a metal man you are grooving to the jigga we know as Jay Z. This record is a classic and a staple in your hip hop diet. Afterwards we had retirements , or the threat of a retirement that never really happened. Listen to "Girls Girls Girls" and then sit back and think that he has Beyonce on his arm. The ruler indeed!
Johnny Cash - American IV The Man Comes Around
Thanks to Rick Ruben and his pyjama wearing production guidance we were blessed with several new recordings from the man they call Cash. Trent Reznor has said that "Hurt" is no longer his song and if you listen to Johnny Cash barely make it through singing this song without breaking down you will no why.
The Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night
Is my sex on fire? It sure is when i am singing this song at the top of my lungs in the shower. Caleb and his family hit the nail on the head with this record. To me its a commercial success without selling out. I anticipate how they plan on following this one up.
The Streets - Original Pirate Material
I remember my good friend Juice introducing me to this record and i was instantly hooked! Still i am unable to recite the lyrics with the same timing as Mr. Skinner, even though i know all the words. Its dark, its real, its gritty, and its not optimistic, but it is a classic in my library.
Ratatat - Classics
Who needs vocals when we have layered guitars like these! Maybe throw in a lion growl from time to time, but thats it!
Appropriately named , this record is a classic
The Killers - Sam's Town
Brandon Flowers may have shot himself in the foot by saying this record is one of the best of all time. Perhaps that was a little grand in thought, but it is in my books one of the better ones in the last ten years. "When we were YOung" is a rocker that gets you thinking about what is it thats going to save you? "For Reasons Unknown" still gives me shivers everytime i listen to it. Thank you Killers for putting out great records while not sticking to the formula of your initial success.
Tegan and Sara - The Con
In my eyes this is a masterpiece, and although i may be a tad biased, I strongly feel in my heart that this album is in a league of its own. Listen to the frantic tone in Tegan's voice on the title track, or relate a personal situation to album closer "Call it Off". Thank you Tegan and Sara for creating this record, we needed it in JUly of 2007 when you gave it to us.
Eminem - The Eminem Show
Dear Eminem or Mr.Mathers you scare the crap out of me! With a sharp tongue and unmatched wit and lyricism you have been able to get under the skin of celebrities, politicians, housewives, moms, and the rest of us. Unsure if you are crazy or just pretending we have no idea what you are capable of. We are however thankful for your insight into pop culture and all things relevant to us...now just please dont kill me and stuff in the trunk of a car.
The Magic Numbers - The Magic Numbers
Heartache and love gone wrong brought to us by Romeo Stodart his sister MIchelle and the Ganon siblings Angela and Sean. This record is so poppy in parts it hurts, and so full of heartache it makes us wonder if love is ever worth it. "I see you you see me" is tough to listen to at the best of times. "Love me like you" has a bassline that will make you want to learn how to play the bass. "Hymn for Her" brought the glockenspiel back to the masses and although it is the album closer is arguably one of my favorites on this the debut record from The Magic Numbers.
The White Stripes - White Blood Cells
Who needs a bass player when you play guitar with this much passion, and sing with this much intensity. "Dead Leaves..." the opening track has me hooked thank you very much! Now Jack has 1000 bands and Meg is nowhere to be seen but this record still rocks out harder than most five piece acts of the past decade.
Wolfmother - Wolfmother
Everyone devil horns in the air and bang your head in unison please. Classic rock for the future is now upon us.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs - It's Blitz!
Karen O should scare you because she could easily kick your ass. New York's Yeah Yeah Yeahs deliver on all cylinders with this the follow up to "Fever to Tell". They blew me away at Bonnaroo this year and "its Blitz" continues to be in my most played playlist.
Silverchair - Young Modern
No longer Silverchair really and more like the Daniel Johns band, we have been fortunate to watch him grow, to suffer, to learn, and to release his epic orchestral musical offerings. "Straight lines" makes me feel optimistic and hopeful and should be required listening on a daily basis.
Band Of Horses - Cease To Begin
How much reverb is too much reverb?? who cares when it comes to this record. I friggen love all of it! "Is there a Ghost" and "The General Specific" are two of my favs on this 10 track record.
Wintersleep - Welcome to the Night Sky
Canadian and proud of it! This east coast band lived up to its hype and repuation with this full length release put out in 2007. I can safely say that i only listen to this album in its entirety from start to finish and i do so at least once a week. Closing track "Miasmal Smoke and the Yellow Bellied Freaks" is an audio visceral movie that plays out in my mind with scenes bigger than any hollywood blockbuster ever produced. Watch out for the follow up to this album as i hold no doubt it will be epic in its own right
Agree to disagree , its just my opinion. There is so much amazing music out there we are fortunate in this day and age to not have to sit around and see what the major labels are going to present to us.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Top 5 Xmas songs
For someone who has just about zero Christmas spirit so far this year, hearing holiday songs every time i turn around may just be what breaks me of my Scrooge/Grinch like attitude. Since i consider music to be about as important as breathing i thought i would list my top 5 holiday songs that briefly make me forget my current lack of holiday cheer.
in order (according to how i feel at this exact moment)
5. All I want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey
4. Its Christmas baby please come home - U2
3. Happy Xmas (war is over) - John Lennon
2. Do They Know Its Christmas - Band Aid
1. Fairytale of New York - The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl
in order (according to how i feel at this exact moment)
5. All I want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey
4. Its Christmas baby please come home - U2
3. Happy Xmas (war is over) - John Lennon
2. Do They Know Its Christmas - Band Aid
1. Fairytale of New York - The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl
Monday, December 21, 2009
Home, Jet Lagged, and travel weary
After several flight delays and an unexpected night at a Heathrow hotel in London i am home in Vancouver. Weather issues throughout Europe and in the eastern states played havoc with flights during the busiest time of the year. I am lucky to have even made it home and am very thankful to those involved that made it happen. Our big label rep is still stranded in Germany just trying to get to Manchester to be with family for the holidays. My fingers and toes are crossed for her.
Its always interesting coming home after being away on tour for an extended period of time. Suddenly their is nobody to make my bed in the morning and no drivers waiting outside to take me where i need to go. Winding down takes a few days and is different everytime. On the road you build such close friendships and relationships with your tourmates and somewhat neglect the ones you have back home. Therefore you end up missing those you recently said goodbye to and reconnecting with those you have not see or spoken to in the last month.
I really am thankful and appreciative to have the position that i have. I would reckon that i could be one of the luckiest guys in the world working a dream job. It is however not so much a job as it is a lifestyle and all that we know. This leads to feeling lonely or somewhat out of place when back in reality at the home front. Some guys have familys to come home to and the transition is anticipated and smooth. I myself take sometime to adjust to not living out of my suitcase. Which by the way i am thankful to have recieved here in Vancouver as you never really know if your baggage will accompany you on the trip. All three pieces made it safe and sound!
Perhaps i am being overly dramatic, but this life i lead can only be related to by others who live it as well. Sometimes the road can be the loneliest place on earth and yet coming down from the high of touring once back home can feel equally as lonely. For all of the ups and downs, the highs and the lows , the one thing that remains constant is that I would not trade it for the world. Which perhaps is why i am going to the island tomorrow, coming back tuesday, then flying to Calgary on wednesday for christmas....Am i tired of the travel? Should i rest? nawww...
Its always interesting coming home after being away on tour for an extended period of time. Suddenly their is nobody to make my bed in the morning and no drivers waiting outside to take me where i need to go. Winding down takes a few days and is different everytime. On the road you build such close friendships and relationships with your tourmates and somewhat neglect the ones you have back home. Therefore you end up missing those you recently said goodbye to and reconnecting with those you have not see or spoken to in the last month.
I really am thankful and appreciative to have the position that i have. I would reckon that i could be one of the luckiest guys in the world working a dream job. It is however not so much a job as it is a lifestyle and all that we know. This leads to feeling lonely or somewhat out of place when back in reality at the home front. Some guys have familys to come home to and the transition is anticipated and smooth. I myself take sometime to adjust to not living out of my suitcase. Which by the way i am thankful to have recieved here in Vancouver as you never really know if your baggage will accompany you on the trip. All three pieces made it safe and sound!
Perhaps i am being overly dramatic, but this life i lead can only be related to by others who live it as well. Sometimes the road can be the loneliest place on earth and yet coming down from the high of touring once back home can feel equally as lonely. For all of the ups and downs, the highs and the lows , the one thing that remains constant is that I would not trade it for the world. Which perhaps is why i am going to the island tomorrow, coming back tuesday, then flying to Calgary on wednesday for christmas....Am i tired of the travel? Should i rest? nawww...
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Paris
It used to be that I was not all that fond of trips to Paris. France i had no problem with, but Paris has always been a bit different. The Parisians in general can be a bit snooty and rude to you if they do not feel like giving you the time of day. In the last few months during this round of promotional work we have come to Paris four or five times and i must say my outlook has change drastically.
Known throughout the world as both the city of love, or the most romantic city, and also as La Ville-Lumière, or city of light. It has offered me hope in my personal life to perhaps have a little faith with regards to the heart. Seeing the various couples bundled up on the streets in the sub zero temperatures holding hands or arm in arm while walking has been an inspiration to me. The cafes, restaurants and brasseries are always steaming with people at all hours of the day/night for a drink or bite to eat. Through my experiences in dealing with Parisians it has become aware that if you only try to speak a little french and make a bit of an effort some of the attitude or snootiness will disappear. Let me just say that I have a very limited vocabulary en francais, but i enjoy trying and perhaps will put forth some time on my own accord and learn a little more. The other night i went to see a DJ and friend of mine in a hip french club and when the night was done I decided that ordering late night crepes was something i could do for my friend and I. let me just say it was a funny experience to say the least and his sandwich was far more tastier than mine! The point is i tried and everyone was warm and accepting of my effort.
One can only begin to describe the architecture and general style of the buildings as magnificent! With a bit research i discovered that pre 19th century the city of Paris was basically a maze of narrow streets lined with half-timber houses. However beginning in 1852, the Baron Haussmann's urbanisation program involved leveling entire quarters to make way for wide avenues lined with neo-classical stone buildings of grandiose standing.
One of the most famous landmarks in the world is visible from most areas of the city. I am of course speaking about the Eiffel Tower. It is the tallest building in Paris and the single most visited paid monument in the world!
Another famous monument important to the city is of course the Arc de Triomphe. It is an arc structure that stands at the western end of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées commemorating the soldiers that died fighting for France in the various wars throughout time. If you have ever been here to Paris and know what i am talking about you will also regard it has being the center point of one of the most fucked up traffic circles ever! Seriously its basically a spin cycle of cars going around and around and god help you if you need to exit and find yourself on the inside. I have no idea how accidents are avoided but strangely enough the percentage seems to be quite low as i have yet to see one.
So we have one more day here in France and then its off to our final promotional destination of 2009, the city of Roma Italy. In all my travels i have yet to find myself in a city nearly as fascinating as Rome is. Utterly breathtaking and beyond words. i will try and make sure i take some photos to include with my documenting of my time in Rome. I leave you now with a few shots from the city of love, or the city of light, whichever you prefer....
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
3 reasons why I miss my bed
Staying in hotels on a nightly basis is not nearly as glamorous or exciting as you may think. I will admit it does have its advantages and it sure is nice to have your bed made for you...however in the last few days i have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed the following...
1. While staying in a posh hotel in Dublin i was forced to fight my way through throngs of people on a nightly basis just to get to my room .Apparently the hotel we stayed at was also the place to be in the city of Dublin. Once reaching my room i was privy to every noise and creak in the building as the hotel was quite old.
2. Checking into a usual london hotel late night with the next day being a bit of a late start I was fortunate enough to be place directly above the floor that ongoing hotel renovations were taking place. Have you woken up lately to what sounds like a drill going through your head...oh and its 930am on a saturday. Not impressed...
3. Back in London after a brief trip to Paris, and in a new hotel, i was woken up at 5 am to my room phone ringing off the hook. I was unable to answer it though because a) i was half asleep and was struggling to negotiate just what the hell was going on! b) once getting the phone off of the receiver i could only hear dial tone in my ear while the phone kept ringing at full volume. The two line system in a hotel room is uncalled for!
Anyways, just a bit of a whiny bitch these days as i am a little under the weather. Heading home to Vancouver on saturday where i hear its cold and snowy...i am sure i will be wishing someone would make my bed while at home...
1. While staying in a posh hotel in Dublin i was forced to fight my way through throngs of people on a nightly basis just to get to my room .Apparently the hotel we stayed at was also the place to be in the city of Dublin. Once reaching my room i was privy to every noise and creak in the building as the hotel was quite old.
2. Checking into a usual london hotel late night with the next day being a bit of a late start I was fortunate enough to be place directly above the floor that ongoing hotel renovations were taking place. Have you woken up lately to what sounds like a drill going through your head...oh and its 930am on a saturday. Not impressed...
3. Back in London after a brief trip to Paris, and in a new hotel, i was woken up at 5 am to my room phone ringing off the hook. I was unable to answer it though because a) i was half asleep and was struggling to negotiate just what the hell was going on! b) once getting the phone off of the receiver i could only hear dial tone in my ear while the phone kept ringing at full volume. The two line system in a hotel room is uncalled for!
Anyways, just a bit of a whiny bitch these days as i am a little under the weather. Heading home to Vancouver on saturday where i hear its cold and snowy...i am sure i will be wishing someone would make my bed while at home...
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Craigers current vibe in the land of the giant pretzel
There is something to be said for being part of a team that is whisked away from a venue , into an awaiting fleet of Mercedes Viano vans. Traveling at speeds reaching 124mph to a private airport and our private G4 jet. Let me just say that once you start getting used to traveling like this , its hard to think about normal life. YOu know what i am talking about...driving yourself and queuing up for a commercial flight!....no thank you
We are left with about 10 days of promotional duties on this leg of the tour before returning to Vancouver for the holiday season. I have decided to brave the chill of Calgary and go spend Christmas with my family. To be honest i am not really filled with much holiday cheer this year, but am hoping a few rum and egg nog specials will help to fix that.
I know i promised photos but to be honest there has not been a lot of extra time to explore and snap some shots. You can look forward to a montage of sorts from my previous catalogue in the next few days.
Today we are in Baden Baden Germany, which i find quite cool as the Canadian Military had troops posted in a nearby town called Lahr up until about 1998. Having spent five years in a military town i had several friends that had lived in Lahr at one point in their lives. I remember thinking, wow, you have lived in Germany. I could not imagine at that age what a foreign country like Germany would be like. Now of course i have been to many cities in this vast country and have really come to love it over here. The German's are quite stylish in their own way. Lots of builidings with slick lines, minimalistic approach to design and style. As mentioned earlier the culture in general i find quite efficient, easy going but task orientated and focused. Plus they love their beer and food...oh and the woman are drop dead gorgeous!
thats it for today...off to Dublin Ireland tonight with a real proper day off tomorrow..
Guiness anyone?
We are left with about 10 days of promotional duties on this leg of the tour before returning to Vancouver for the holiday season. I have decided to brave the chill of Calgary and go spend Christmas with my family. To be honest i am not really filled with much holiday cheer this year, but am hoping a few rum and egg nog specials will help to fix that.
I know i promised photos but to be honest there has not been a lot of extra time to explore and snap some shots. You can look forward to a montage of sorts from my previous catalogue in the next few days.
Today we are in Baden Baden Germany, which i find quite cool as the Canadian Military had troops posted in a nearby town called Lahr up until about 1998. Having spent five years in a military town i had several friends that had lived in Lahr at one point in their lives. I remember thinking, wow, you have lived in Germany. I could not imagine at that age what a foreign country like Germany would be like. Now of course i have been to many cities in this vast country and have really come to love it over here. The German's are quite stylish in their own way. Lots of builidings with slick lines, minimalistic approach to design and style. As mentioned earlier the culture in general i find quite efficient, easy going but task orientated and focused. Plus they love their beer and food...oh and the woman are drop dead gorgeous!
thats it for today...off to Dublin Ireland tonight with a real proper day off tomorrow..
Guiness anyone?
Monday, December 7, 2009
Blackpool
I am sitting in my hotel room here in Blackpool England listening to the wind howl off of the Irish Sea while the rain pelts away at my window. To clear things up I am actually in a much more posh town located just outside of Blackpool called St. Annes. However for the sake of this entry we will pretend that i am in Blackpool proper. Imagine if you can the jersey shoreline in its heyday around 1920 to 1950. Flourishing through tourism, complete with sprawling boardwalk, large scale hotels, and of course casinos. Now think about the cities that occupied the area like Atlantic City, or Asbury park. If you have been to these cities in the last 30 years like i have you know that they are depressed, vacant, almost ghost like towns that look as if they have somewhat been forgotten about , yet still cling to life.
If you have this image in your mind at the moment, then you are squarely in the centre of Blackpool England.
Once a thriving tourist mecca with its heyday between 1900 and 1950, it is now in my eyes merely a ghost of its past. Clinging on to a breath of modernism with rollercoasters and such, but desperate for the glory it once had. The boardwalk is sprawling and filled with all sorts of shops, from fish and chips to amusements. Apparently they are open during the summer season and must do some business in order to stay around an wait out yet another summer and the flock of tourists. It is however rather depressing to be here in Blackpool in the first week of December when all but a few seem to have left for the winter.
I guess an interesting item to note is that the reason i am here is for the Royal Variety Christmas program in the UK. An annual festive program put on for the royals and intended to entertain many a British household. That being said for tonights performance the Queen is actually going to be in attendance. This is most interesting because the shops and lights that have been turned off or closed up for the past three months all seem to be turning on and opening up for this one day in December when the Queen of England comes to visit and listen to some of her favorite artists perform. Artists that include, Mylie Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Michael Buble, and of course Mika.
Its really one of those moments where i find myself wondering, what the hell is going on....
till next time...
If you have this image in your mind at the moment, then you are squarely in the centre of Blackpool England.
Once a thriving tourist mecca with its heyday between 1900 and 1950, it is now in my eyes merely a ghost of its past. Clinging on to a breath of modernism with rollercoasters and such, but desperate for the glory it once had. The boardwalk is sprawling and filled with all sorts of shops, from fish and chips to amusements. Apparently they are open during the summer season and must do some business in order to stay around an wait out yet another summer and the flock of tourists. It is however rather depressing to be here in Blackpool in the first week of December when all but a few seem to have left for the winter.
I guess an interesting item to note is that the reason i am here is for the Royal Variety Christmas program in the UK. An annual festive program put on for the royals and intended to entertain many a British household. That being said for tonights performance the Queen is actually going to be in attendance. This is most interesting because the shops and lights that have been turned off or closed up for the past three months all seem to be turning on and opening up for this one day in December when the Queen of England comes to visit and listen to some of her favorite artists perform. Artists that include, Mylie Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Michael Buble, and of course Mika.
Its really one of those moments where i find myself wondering, what the hell is going on....
till next time...
Sunday, December 6, 2009
a recent interview with Tegan Quin
Okay so here is a small snippet from a recent interview done by Reflector Magazine with Tegan Quin from Tegan and Sara.
R: What’s one of your favourite tour memories?
TQ: There are way too many to even get close to picking a favourite. We love to recount stories of past tour managers. Sadly, we have been through quite a few over the years. One of our best tour managers left to go work with Michael Buble and we still talk of him fondly, almost nightly. We were in Paris once, lost as hell, late for sound check and he went running into a gas station with a map of Paris and apparently said, “Je m’apelle Craig, how do I get here,” and then he passionately stabbed at the place on the map we needed to go. That cracks me up every time.
Just doing what i do folks....getting shit done anyway i see fit!
I miss those girls....
R: What’s one of your favourite tour memories?
TQ: There are way too many to even get close to picking a favourite. We love to recount stories of past tour managers. Sadly, we have been through quite a few over the years. One of our best tour managers left to go work with Michael Buble and we still talk of him fondly, almost nightly. We were in Paris once, lost as hell, late for sound check and he went running into a gas station with a map of Paris and apparently said, “Je m’apelle Craig, how do I get here,” and then he passionately stabbed at the place on the map we needed to go. That cracks me up every time.
Just doing what i do folks....getting shit done anyway i see fit!
I miss those girls....
Random Thoughts from Blackpool England
Okay so the wind is howling something fierce off of the Irish Sea and i am 1 hour and 3 minutes away from heading to our rehearsal/soundcheck for the Royal Variety Show. Apparently this English Christmas special is a tradition done every year in some city or town here in jolly ol' England. Word on the street has the Queen in attendance for tomorrow nights live performance.
Anyways here are a few random thoughts and such i find floating around my brain as of late....
in no particular order and with no real meaning i present to you....an insight into the brain of Craigers...
One must remember that while walking in most European cities upon hearing the "ding ding" of a bike bell you should get the hell out of the way!!!
An umbrella in an untrained hand is a very dangerous weapon...protect your face and eyes at all times people
I am currently going through a bit of a hoodie phase..not that its anything new, but i did purchase three hoodies yesterday at one time and am wondering if that is actually legal or not?
When greeting a lady in the various European and international cities i travel to. I find myself confused and nervous as to whether its one kiss on one cheek? or is it one kiss on each cheek. Someone needs to break this down for me please...
Germans are very festive this time of year and apparently love their alcohol in both hot and cold drinks. Especially if it's accompanied by somesort of sugar covered nut or perhaps an overgrown chunk of meat placed between a rather tiny bun of sorts
So there is a quick insight into some of the random thoughts and viewpoints i have floating around my head at any given time. Now for those of you who have no idea what it is i actually do, please check this link and you will notice that basically i just walk around on the stage hoping to one day bust into a dance move or maybe even take over a verse or two....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5gOqggoGN8
standby and ill let you all know how my meeting with the Queen works out....
Anyways here are a few random thoughts and such i find floating around my brain as of late....
in no particular order and with no real meaning i present to you....an insight into the brain of Craigers...
One must remember that while walking in most European cities upon hearing the "ding ding" of a bike bell you should get the hell out of the way!!!
An umbrella in an untrained hand is a very dangerous weapon...protect your face and eyes at all times people
I am currently going through a bit of a hoodie phase..not that its anything new, but i did purchase three hoodies yesterday at one time and am wondering if that is actually legal or not?
When greeting a lady in the various European and international cities i travel to. I find myself confused and nervous as to whether its one kiss on one cheek? or is it one kiss on each cheek. Someone needs to break this down for me please...
Germans are very festive this time of year and apparently love their alcohol in both hot and cold drinks. Especially if it's accompanied by somesort of sugar covered nut or perhaps an overgrown chunk of meat placed between a rather tiny bun of sorts
So there is a quick insight into some of the random thoughts and viewpoints i have floating around my head at any given time. Now for those of you who have no idea what it is i actually do, please check this link and you will notice that basically i just walk around on the stage hoping to one day bust into a dance move or maybe even take over a verse or two....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5gOqggoGN8
standby and ill let you all know how my meeting with the Queen works out....
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Willkommen to Bremen Germany
Currently i find myself in an interesting little city located in the northwest of Germany about 100 kilometers from Hamburg. An interesting little city that i have never been to before but have come to discover is quite rich in history and very much into Christmas. Most of the time spent here as been wandering the old town and what has become the temporary Christmas Village...some would say is reminiscent of the North Pole , if you can imagine what the North Pole and Santa's workshop/village would be like at this time of year than you can imagine what it has been like for me to stand in centre of the city of Bremen.
An interesting sidenote to the city of Bremen is that the Beck's brewery is located here and you can find Becks beer flowing in every corner of the city!
So lets back up just a little bit to our arrival here into Bremen thursday night. After a long travel day from New York to Paris, a 4 hour layover , followed by a connection to Bremen, we arrived at our hotel. Now i would compare the Park Hotel to that of the hotel in the movie the Shining with the clientele that would be invited if we were in the movie "Eyes Wide Shut."
Apparently the hotel was bombed and rebuilt twice during the war and has been in its current condition since 1953 when it was rebuilt for the last time. Its a nice enough hotel if you are one of the travellers who is interested in creepy hotel experiences mixed with moments of feeling as if you are in the twilight zone...anyways we are all checked out now and after our performance tonight on Europe's biggest television show Wetten Dass, we will fly to Blackpool England for yet another festive holiday xmas tv special...with royals involved apparently!! Stay tuned for a later posting detailing the highlights from that trip. The following link is to our performance of "cry me a river" on Wetten Dass
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uuv0Ggy7tqg
Overall i would say that Bremen is a quaint little town with a bit of an old vibe mixed with modernism of sorts. As with all European cities i love the history, the buildings, and of course the statues.
Now of course what trip to Germany would be complete without some good ol fashion bratwurst....
till next time...
An interesting sidenote to the city of Bremen is that the Beck's brewery is located here and you can find Becks beer flowing in every corner of the city!
So lets back up just a little bit to our arrival here into Bremen thursday night. After a long travel day from New York to Paris, a 4 hour layover , followed by a connection to Bremen, we arrived at our hotel. Now i would compare the Park Hotel to that of the hotel in the movie the Shining with the clientele that would be invited if we were in the movie "Eyes Wide Shut."
Apparently the hotel was bombed and rebuilt twice during the war and has been in its current condition since 1953 when it was rebuilt for the last time. Its a nice enough hotel if you are one of the travellers who is interested in creepy hotel experiences mixed with moments of feeling as if you are in the twilight zone...anyways we are all checked out now and after our performance tonight on Europe's biggest television show Wetten Dass, we will fly to Blackpool England for yet another festive holiday xmas tv special...with royals involved apparently!! Stay tuned for a later posting detailing the highlights from that trip. The following link is to our performance of "cry me a river" on Wetten Dass
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uuv0Ggy7tqg
Overall i would say that Bremen is a quaint little town with a bit of an old vibe mixed with modernism of sorts. As with all European cities i love the history, the buildings, and of course the statues.
Now of course what trip to Germany would be complete without some good ol fashion bratwurst....
till next time...
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