Has It Really Got To This...?

Bye

2005-04-02T18:39:00.000+01:00

This blog is over. Thanks for reading!

On A Tune Tip...

2005-03-29T18:28:00.000+01:00

Some great singles out today: Yeti, Jim Noir, Morrissey (for the live version of There Is A Light...), and The Arcade Fire (for the packaging alone!) - All worth a listen, but you want just one? Jim Noir.

Piers Morgan's diary is taking up all my time too, and is becoming increasingly difficult to put down. Each anecdote is generally either amusing or scintillating (kind of) and he has plenty of tales to tell regardless of whether or not, (as the MediaGuardian.co.uk has pointed out) all are indeed true.

Funk off Ladbrokes

2005-03-29T08:05:00.000+01:00

Right, so, there I was, munching contentedly on a slab of chocolate, coffee in hand. Despite a recent bout of watching the notes slide away I took to the Ladbrokes website for a flutter. My last winnings came from backing Ipswich, otherwise known as a sin. Regardless, I had a look at some pretty impressive odds on the Players Championship golf tournament, and deposited £6 into my otherwise desolate account. At 40/1 we had a Fred Funk. Fantastic thought I, he will do nicely (and had done ok in the first 2 holes of his last round) - I proceeded to throw the £6 onto the ludicrous Funk. Had he have won, £240 was pretty much mine. Far fetched I realise but hey, we're all dreamers right? However, Ladbrokes simply kept returning with 'error' each time I attempted to drop £6 on Funk's world weary head. 'Ahhhh' thought I, 'The Gods are trying to tell me something!' I'm not so much superstitious as I am stupid, so I went back to the list and chose somebody at much thinner odds.
I wake this morning to see Mr Funk, against all the odds (moreover, my goddamn odds) had taken the championship and my 'lame duck' has sunk without trace. Damn you Ladbrokes, damn you. I could, if all had gone to plan, be celebrating a veritable bounty if their damn 'errors' hadn't occured. I feel horrifically vindicated. £240 indeed. bah.

Soap Spot (II)

2005-03-27T12:27:00.000+01:00

Right, after the daft soap spotting entry, Manchester has been riddled with Corrie cast popping up all over the city. I shall try and keep this snappy, because I really do doubt my sanity.

Star Spot 1 - Deidre Rasheed (haha) - Zooming down Deansgate in a taxi, heading in the direction of Granada Studios. Deidre was fiddling around in her handbag. No seriously, she was.

Star Spot 2 - 'Our Craig' - Apologies if that's not his name, but it's the only term that comes to mind when I picture his crazy gothic face. 'Our Craig' (his dad's just died, show him some respect) was queuing up for a tenner at Natwest cash machine on Deansgate at precisely 2:42am (getting on for 2:43am) this morning...Taxi money I'll wager, but I thought he was like, 14 or something? 'Our Craig' had clearly been out on the sauce, and was looking flustered and anxious. Poor 'Our Craig'.

Star Spot 3 - Fizz - Fizz was shopping in Salford's Sainsbury's on Thursday evening. Yup. Kitted out in a quite horrendous dark green poncho (that was like, sooooo last year Fizz...even the mornonic chavs have passed up on those in Primark this Spring) - she paid particular attention to the range of spices (what's the point?) and was accosted by a star-struck fan (loser)...He promptly pulled out a photo of his kid (I can only hope that's what it was) to much, 'awwwww' 'awwwwww' 'ohhhhhhh' 'hahah' 'aw that's so sweet' reaction from Fizzle.
Whether she was cursing, 'kindly piss off, I cherish these food shopping trips and you're interrupting my quiet time' between her teeth is something neither I, nor you, should speculate.

Star Spot 4 - Audrey Roberts - Audrey was lurking down the backstreets in an awfully drab looking set of wheels. I'm guessing it was a Nova or something of that ilk, but a slightly modest looking choice of transport considering the lady's immitable stature. She was sat alongside another actor but I can't put a name to the face. He was old.

Happy Easter y'all

Blow in..

2005-03-21T10:53:00.000Z

Blowout tonight - The Hentchmen + The High Plane Drifters + Jackie O + The Wandering Step - We're on early early 8:30pm, so get in Beerkeller from 8:15ish

Went to Akoustik Anarkhy on Saturday evening for a short while, and saw a psychadelic haze that was The Second Floor, pretty good they were too. Reluctantly missed Blowout's combination of Loose Canon and The Maybes which was a shame but can't be helped.

Recent single purchases have seen a rather poor showing from Hal. The indifferent reaction is awarded to The KBC, Nine Black Alps and Best Fwends. The thumbs up goes to Loose Canon and Havana Guns. I knew you were all wondering, that's all.

Nine Songs

2005-03-15T15:47:00.000Z

Is utter rubbish. What a wasted afternoon.

Call out the instigator, because there's something in the air

2005-03-14T11:30:00.000Z

After a spot of light recording, the Stepmobile took across the Pennines (I presume that's what they were) to Nottingham for Wilco at Rock City. Needless to say we got lost again and ended up surrounded by the snowy peaks of Barnsley. As timeless as the view was, it wasn't getting us anywhere particularly quickly.

Now, RAC Route Planner took precedence over the AA's shambles on this voyage, but I may have to take my words back and point the finger squarely at the guy reading the directions. Maybe the car wash as we left Manchester totally messed with the chap's brain (it was good of Texaco's machine to leave my wing mirrors intact), but David clearly can't read simple instructions. Eventually we found our way through Barnsley and onto the M1 before Nottingham's one-way system sent me zooming haphazardly along tram tracks without road markings in the city centre (yeah, we went so very wrong again)...but after the inital fit of hysteria (and infitum cursing) we wound up outside Rock City and into the venue as Wilco took to the stage.

I haven't the time to review the gig but Wilco were fantastic once more. A Ghost is Born and Yankee Hotel Foxtrot made up the majority of the set with smatterings from Being There and Summerteeth. They also slot in a cover of 'Something In The Air' which brought the sold-out venue to its knees. That band are head and shoulders above anything out there at the moment, no doubts.

The journey home gave David the freedom of following a line on the A-Z back to Manchester, but to my knowledge, that line didn't need to include Chesterfield and the 'Derbyshire Dales' (pitch black, winding roads, haunting passages with trees engulfing the road and crazy-drunk one-eyed, one-legged hobos shaking wooden sticks at us in the death of the night - ok that last one's not even true, but yer know, it could have been) and eventually, we fell back to the city at 1:30am with distant Wilco memories rapidly fading into sleep.

West Ham seem destined to prop up the table by the end of the season with three straight defeats. Crewe bring their Ashton-less crew to upton park mid-week desperately looking for points themselves. It could go either way, but undoubtedly won't go ours.

Band of the moment..

2005-03-10T14:07:00.000Z

Bestest new band is Viva Voce. Their album 'Lovers, Lead the Way!' is brilliant. If you take the pathetic tweedom and irritating brashness of 'Mates of State' out of the equation, there is this cute idea of a married couple making lo-fi genius sounds. Viva Voce (also a married couple) take the best bits of the aforementioned MoS, turn them lush and have made a brilliantly fulfilling album. There's a touch of The Kills about them when they get all fuzzy, but otherwise this is dreamy Joy Zipper-esque brilliance, all with discernible tunes. Currently challenging The Arcade Fire to my favourite sounds of 2005.
The album was out in 2003, so track it down and enjoy.

Celebs? Two-a-penny up 'ere lad...

2005-03-09T10:07:00.000Z

£54 phone bill?! £58 electricity bill?! How? Why? I've only just paid an electricity bill and I don't use the damn house phone. Where's my reduction for the inconvenience of cutting me off last month? huh? Damn you BT, and all you stand for - your monopolising has gone on long enough *shakes fist*.

Anyhow. Sarah celebrated her birthday last week with a trip to Manchester's Picallinos (sat alongside that crazy Karen lass that used to be in Corrie) followed by new Northern Quarter bar 'Common' which was deader than dead.

Manchester star spotting has become slightly absurd recently. I should think we've managed to see the entire cast of Coronation Street in the past year - accidentally (natch). For one entry only, let's try writing for Heat or the rest of the trashy red-top mags...

Sarah Louise Platt SPOTTED - Shoving a trolley through Salford's Sainsburys. She was stocking up on fruit juice and bananas, yet saw fit to cover herself in make-up before the excursion.

Sarah Louise Platt (2) SPOTTED - Linked arm in arm with Todd and that other young chap she's now seeing, *skipping* past Deansgate train station. Todd was her ex-boyfriend in the programme and real-life *SCANDAL* ooooh and Tina what are you wearing? Ice cold temperatures still sees 'our Tina' frolicking in micro skirt with ex.

Norris SPOTTED - Looking dazed and confused outside the Castlefield Hotel scratching his head and disappearing in the direction of the Science and Tech museum.

Sally Webster SPOTTED - Whilst Sally tries to cover her current plight from Kevin, she is spotted in uber-common chainstore Oasis on King St, leaving a pile of unwanted clothes on the floor. Primadonna? Sal?

Tracey Barlow SPOTTED - Queuing up to see 'Before Sunset' at the Cornerhouse cinema. Tracey found herself precariously placed nearby your fourth favourite band's bassist, but declined the offer of popcorn scraps.

Tracey Barlow (2) SPOTTED - Ambling her way up Fairfield Street with a suitcase having left nearby Piccadilly Station. That's right, CORRIE STAR IN TRAIN TRAVEL SHOCKER!

The overly camp one SPOTTED - Trotting suspiciously away from the studios off Quay Street adorning a pair of stylish spectacles. Rubbish, rubbish spot.

Fred Elliott SPOTTED - Not looking unlike Toad from Wind in the Willows, roaring along Deansgate in a vintage yellow sports car. Fred looked on in horror as the Step Mobile glided ahead, kicking dust in his gruesome face.

Karen Macdonald SPOTTED - Enjoying a drink at swanky Manchester restaurant Picallinos with a young gent. The conversation had a distinctly serious undertone as she overcame waaaay to much eye-liner. (oh good god, shoot me now)

Karen Macdonald (2) SPOTTED - The day after the Soap Awards where Karen scooped a couple of 'gongs', she was spotted walking past Selfridges boisterously laughing with friends and screaming 'DID YOU SEE HOW NERVOUS I WAS? I THOUGHT I'D FALL!!' Well we all know now, don't we Karen?

Fizz SPOTTED - With friend in garishly, 'loud' jumper in Cafe Rouge on Deansgate, um, eating.

The cockney guy's son SPOTTED - Everywhere. Literally, he appears on every street on virtually every day. Likewise 'Candice',

....and that evil woman who burned all of Dev's shops, ambling past the Arndale centre, looking angry and guilty.

Also SPOTTED on the mean northern streets - Manchester's musical svengali giant Tony Wilson, Ex Krypton Factor dynamo and local newsreader Gordon Burns, Some other newsreader, Man City fall-guy Steve Mcnamanman and a plethora of Mancunian indie passengers.

Yeah I'm bored of this now too.

Um, another essay due on Wednesday and star spotting tales are clearly more important.

M.I.A and Don Nino soundtrack the day's essay.

However, the Step Mobile takes to Nottingham on Sunday sans Dan/Dave to see Wilco at Rock City. Oh sacred, sacred band.

Staying in house, listening to Schnauss

2005-03-01T09:02:00.000Z

My law essay was signed, sealed and delivered on Monday morning. I've mixed feelings about this one, fear and relief being foremost. Whatever.

West Ham got back to their losing ways at the weekend, nigh on the 12th loss of the Championship season, which, let's be fair, isn't really promotion form in a league of termites. 3 straight wins gave us hope, but dropping the opportunity to climb well into the play-offs was lost on the players who travelled to Leeds. A veritable six-pointer at home to Preston at the weekend could give us something to hold on to - Depending on which West Ham turn out obviously.

I watched Dancer in the Dark this weekend (yeah, work is neither here nor there apparently) and wasn't quite expecting quite such a heart wrenching experience. Definitely worth a couple of hours of your time. The Cornerhouse has stopped showing Amelie 2 (Sorry film buffs, you're right, I don't know what I'm talking about), so I'm gonna have to rent that one out (or get stung by some dodgy rip-off import...)

Why are all my sentences so fragmented? Microsoft Word would be taking its trusty green biro to the majority of this entry. Sod you Word, I'll give you fragmentation *shakes fist*

I was planning a trip to see one Gideon Conn at the Green Room on Saturday evening, but the state of the artists preceding him had me balling into my pint, so scuttled off elsewhere. Shame, I was looking forward to more of the Connmeister (as if we hadn't had enough at Jabez already).

The Ritz was buzzin'

2005-02-25T11:05:00.000Z

I went and saw The Bees last night at the Ritz. Good band, good gig. My review is being placed in 3 different places (professional to the last!) so I'm praying nobody realises this by reading more than one of the publications. I guess telling people on here doesn't really help my case.
'One Glass of Water', my song of the last year, was slowed down but was still a wonderful, wonderful 3 minutes.

"Pick me! pick me!!" cries shameful guitarist

2005-02-24T12:45:00.000Z

Wigan was a fun night. Needless to say, the Step's automobile got lost on the streets of the fair northern town. I promised myself to drop AA route planner, but I didn't, and have been punished. Again.
We stopped and enquired to the whereabouts of civilisation with an oafish looking binman, who was of little help. However, after much cursing and general dismay we arrived at Fever.

Fever itself is like some kind of backstreet NYC narcotics den, Lancs style. Situated down a narrow sidestreet, the venue is found down a rickety old staircase which snakes itself into a fairly nondescript room. No stage, but bands set up at the back and it was a surprisingly good sound. Christ knows what goes on in here when bands aren't on, but you got the general feel of the place by the clientele in chains that propped up the bar throughout the evening.

Also on the bill were local heroes Moco and The Fallout Trust. Moco, for one reason or another, were being filmed for a channel 4 documentary. All well and good you'd have thought, had I not realised that this meant for a particularly embarassing performance by our guitarist David to place himself wherever the camera turned. Throwing himself to the front of the stage for Moco's set to 'enjoy' a band he had little interest in enjoying, David was found 'lapping up' every side comment made by Moco as if dependent on their very move (I guess he was considering their every move was followed by the cameras). Bemused, I stood behind the action shaking my head at this gruesome performance of desperation (David, not Moco).

Shame on you Roocroft, go and place yourself in the front row of one of Terry Christian's late night talkshows if you want your mug sprawled over the TV, there would be as much credibility.

Regardless, the new set went very well indeed with another newie, Relijun, being aired. We've never worked out an ending for that song, but we managed to eventually find one last night.

Back in the other world, a media law essay is due in Monday afternoon. I guess it's time to tighten the maze that I've put to page, but Palookaville is far more entertaining.

Hunter S Thompson RIP..

2005-02-21T10:47:00.000Z

"The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side."

Shot in the dark - try the con artist

2005-02-19T16:02:00.000Z

Wandering Step hit the stage for the first time this year with a fair show at Jabez Clegg. We aired a newie 'Non-Violent Man' but it needs more work. Before us was a strange solo artist called Gideon Conn - Check out his website and have a listen, he was genius. His NERD cover needs ears.

City Life previewed our performance at the gig under the rather ambiguous 'Shot in the Dark' - and an amusing photo - I look ill.

Derby County have just gone ahead dammit. West Ham are commanding 3-0 over Plymouth.

For Colchester heads, I'm quite perked up to see that Steve Hurdle (who used to command the stage in a local band who I can't rememeber the name of whatsoever) is guitarist in the Wannadies-ish Londoners Fans of Kate. FoK are on a pretty massive UK tour at the moment, and have just signed to one time Bloc Party label Moshi Moshi records. Anyone in Manchester should go and have a look at them at the Roadhouse on March 10th. I'm sure he wouldn't remember the incident, but an enduring memory was punching him on an um, aggressive New Years Eve back in 1999 or 2000, when I mixed him up with someone else. What can I say, it was dark! Ooops..He took it the 'right' way. Good man.

As previously mentioned, we play with Moco on Wednesday night at Bar Fever in Wigan. Also on the bill are The Fallout Trust. We're on stage at 9:30ish.

An Akoustik Anarkhy gig is hopefully being booked for the end of March. We'll keep you updated.

Giggity giggity gig gig

2005-02-15T12:34:00.000Z

Thursday takes Wandering Step to Jabez Clegg for a 8:55pm kick-off and £4 on the door before 9:30pm (if you're any later you'll have missed us, so take note). E-mail ineedaflyer@wanderingstep.co.uk to get hold of a flyer. Print it out, circle our name and bring it with you to pass over on the door.

New gig confirmed. March 21st for Blowout @ Bierkeller, Manchester - We're early doors supporting Detroit's The Henchmen. More info on that later.

Straight out of the bargain bin

2005-02-09T11:46:00.000Z

Vinyl Exchange off Deangate is a revelation, it really is. Nearly always empty empty empty, and full of bargains. The Oldham Street branch, on the other hand, is crowded, grimey and you have to queue just to have a flick through virtually the same collection
I haven't bothered with the place in ages, but these bargains are *great*. Today's 30 minute session saw me bring home 6 CDs for a mere £6.50, and I even turned down Juana Molina's debut album for £2...Keep your hands off though, that one's mine.

The Features - Exhibit A LP £1 - Not even out yet, but they were pretty tight in support of Kings of Leon last month.
Quickspace - untitled 7 track ep from 1996 £2
The Lonesome Organist - Forms and Follies LP £2 - Still sealed, I've been tempted with this for months at £11..
Misty's Big Adventure - The Solar Hi-Fi System LP 50p - They are dead fun live, but not sure how's it gonna sound on record, but for 50p who cares??
The Research - She's Not Leaving EP 50p - Heard about, but nothing by them.
Absent Kid - Scatter Photos...EP 50p - More an investment and intrigue in this EP by young Colchester upstarts waiting to come good...They won some Diesel/NME competition last year or summit.

An eclectic soundtrack then to an afternoon of PA revision.

There's a story behind every song

2005-02-07T16:46:00.000Z

God I'm bored. There's nothing worth putting on here, but I must keep up appearances dontcha think?

Friday night saw me at the MDH for The Dears/Ambulance Ltd - I didn't bother sticking around for The Dears because I was there to see Ambulance Ltd and the venue was far too packed (seriously) to bother hanging around for the rest of 'em. I am pretty pissed off that I missed Pure Reason Revolution because I liked the last 30 seconds of them.

Ambulance Ltd were dead tight, and seem to be playing the game well across the pond. Appearances on Jay Leno, Letterman and a tune on the next series of The OC, AS WELL AS Lou Reed being a fan - all good (I think, who knows...). The interview was fine, and they were cool live - Quite epic in the nicest way possible - interesting bunch of songs. They've been touring with The Killers and are in that ballpark. I managed to get them slagging off The Star Spangles which was pretty amusing to the point that they didn't drop it (they share rehearsal space) 'Aw man, those douche-bags! they suck man'
Arf.

The weekend saw a dead car battery ruining transport ideas, an RAC man demanding ID (I had none) in the rain and other assorted mishaps.

I've been listening to alot of Cathy Davey (just the right side of Catatonia, but not by much), The Editors, early Wilco and Broken Family Band this week. Just in case you remotely give a damn.

Oh, and West Ham finally won a game. Woop. Preston however, are keeping them out of the play-offs - Somebody is always trying to tell me something.

Tales of Ordinary Madness

2005-02-03T13:18:00.000Z

Woe is me, woe is me. The apartment is falling apart, the car has nowhere to live and the exam hits a week tomorrow.

West Ham continue to falter, and are then drawn away to Arsenal in the next round of the FA Cup, presuming of course that the Irons get past Sheffield Utd. Bah and pah in equal measure.

Broken Family Band's new album is doing its damn hardest to push this gloom under the (now non existant) carpet. As is one lone track by Cathy Davey.

The Tsunami benefit gig I mentioned before was passable on Sunday, but it wasn't until we got there that I realised I'm not a particular fan of any of the bands on offer. Elbow were pretty impressive, and Goldblade (not a fan of their tunes) put on a decent show too though.

The Dears and Ambulance Ltd (including that interview) on Friday at Manc Uni.

His goal in life was to be an echo...

2005-01-31T21:14:00.000Z

Can somebody please put this into context for me, because I have no idea what it is about. Is this some kind of PopEx style site for blogs, as it seems people have been buying and selling shares in this diary and I certainly am not reaping the benefits of said shares. I would at least like to shake hands with the major shareholder, and perhaps chair a meeting or something? Seriously though, what the hell is that page? That said, nobody has touched it since late November, so I infer my choice of topic has gone awry recently?

My weekend somehow led me to an Alfie led bring and buy sale - Seriously, I had no idea.

On An Oily Stage

2005-01-27T10:43:00.000Z

First up, the gig with Herman Dune at the Roadhouse is in limbo and won't be on March 20th anymore, so we urge you to all put faces in for the Jabez Clegg (opposite the Academy) gig on February 17th. The Roadhouse show is looking likely for an early May re-schedule, but the site (and more than probably this blog) will keep you updated.

Congratulations to Bez on his Celebrity Big Brother victory. However, reports indicate that he may be the focus of an Osbournes style reality show of his own. Let's not over egg the pudding eh Bez? A new single and Mondays reunion should see you well.

University has kicked in again, and the first result delivers a respectable 68, or 2.1 if you're a clueless miser.

Some great albums recently reviewed for the next issue of Flux include the return of British Sea Power, the new Low effort, a seminal new group called The Arcade Fire and yet another New York outfit called Ambulance Ltd.

I've got an interview with Ambulance Ltd at Manc uni a week tomorrow for a future feature. I haven't properly sat down and interviewed these 'bands' in years, so at least it promises to be interesting.

XFM kick off their Manchester induction at Night & Day on Friday night with a show featuring Agent Blue and New Rhodes. Hero of the hour John Kennedy is DJ'ing, as are Kaiser Chiefs or The Killers (TBC) - See you at the bar.

Sunday meanwhile, takes me to a Tsunami benefit at the Apollo organsied by Goldblade's John Robb, which features Elbow, I Am Kloot, Nine Black Alps, Durutti Column, The Earlies and special guests. I hope these 'special guests' are actually pretty special, because otherwise my attention looks to be dwindling. That said, it's money to a worthy cause.

RIP Army & Navy

2005-01-15T22:05:00.000Z

The bygone years CD meltdown (last post) stirred fond(ish) memories of craning my neck in the darkened corners of The Army & Navy pub in Chelmsford, watching some of these nearly men perform.

I tended to be hidden in secluded corners due to being underage and thus, should never have found my way into the damn venue, but The Army & Navy was one of the few pubs in the vicinity that managed to put on the odd gig or two.

It is therefore with great sadness that the town's local weekly, The Essex Chronicle, reports that the venue (which sadly turned into a one-bit sports bar two-three years ago) is being knocked down, making way for squalid flats. Damn you Essex county council, have you no soul?

If I recall correctly, the posters adourning the walls were usually more interesting than the gigs themselves, with 'How To Make Friends And Influence People' blazened underneath a veritable treat of acts that had performed there. All the old Britpop stalwarts shook their cocky persona upon the rickety stage on their 'way up'.

I must have been told the epic tale of Oasis' performance, a favourite amongst fellow Chelmsfordians, a thousand odd times. Fans trying to get in through the roof apparently, on the night Supersonic charted. Hmmm, folklore.

However, I never did catch any bands that went on to be massive. In actual fact, the nearest I got was a stripped down Gay Dad comeback that I was covering for the aformentioned weekly paper. Good God.

My college band played a fairly busy gig with The Electric Soft Parade (then called, Soft Parade before The Doors' henchmen got onto them) and the only remaining shows that stand out were David Devant & His Spirit Wife with support from the very young at the time welshmen, The Crocketts, and a particularly rauccous evening with the glitzy suited and booted John Robb and Goldblade. I stood alone that evening, due to my school pals having gone to the Under 18's 'disco' in Colchester. Losers. Although admittedly Dave Pearce may have been the guest PA, 'rollin' another fat one' as such...

Anyway, the A&N has gone the same way as nearby Y Club, and thus we are left with just hazy memories.

The King of Kissingdom (How I long for that to be in a pub quiz)

2005-01-15T21:23:00.000Z

Whilst in Essex for the fortnight, I've been ferriting through piles and piles of old CDs that didn't make the cut for Preston in 2000, and those that have been sent back in protest for failing to alight my musical prowess.

There are undeniably some utter howlers. Take my modest collection of My Life Story singles (Sparkle, Strumpet etc.) for example. Quite how I found Jake Shillingford's lyrics to be golden nuggets of useful information is totally beyond me.

There are some equally tasty one-offs by bands I barely even remember existing, such as The Nicotines, The O, Satellite, Glitterbox, Whistler...*yawn* Raissa, The Kustom Built, Addict, Bo-Ho Sub Band and Derrero amongst the familiar favourites of Sleeper, Echobelly, The Supernaturals and Delakota.

I had forgotten the storming version of The Smiths' 'Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others' by Supergrass on their 'Sun Hits The Sky' single, and am intrigued as to whatever became of Morgan, The Hybirds (Echoboy wasn't it??) and um, Midget. Actually, forget that. It's not so much intrigue as it is utter bemusement.

There are few that I will ever listen to again, clearly, such as pretty much all I've just mentioned. It was great however, to reaffirm a solid companionship with Darren Hayman and old Hefner B-Sides (China Crisis being one of the finest) - Everything was going just great there until you discovered the synth, Darren.

I was never a fan of the Divine Comedy (I'm still not as it happens) but adored 'The Pop Singer's Fear Of The Pollen Count' which I have had on repeat for most of the afternoon.

There are those that never quite knew when to give up, such as Silver Sun and Dawn of the Replicants (although the latter had their moments) which sit ashamedly next to the murky corner of CDRs that I probably paid a fortune for by Essex bands that deserved more than they achieved..Pharmacy, Hirameka Hi-Fi (to be fair, they did ok) and Beatglider being the best of the bunch.

I would say the 3 boxes toppling over in my bedroom are worth a bomb, but that's probably what fellow britpop hangers-on say as they hand over their teen years to Music & Video Exchange - all of which are thrown into 40 CDs for a fiver bags. Bah.

>>To more pressing matters, our Wigan gig on February 23rd is in support of the hometown's heroes, Moco. Expect a very busy show.

John was a scientist..?

2005-01-14T19:40:00.000Z

I've just seen Kasabian on TOTP. They really are quite dreadful aren't they?

I'm playing blues to a bird on a mountain

2005-01-11T21:25:00.000Z

The (Media) Guardian experience is going very well, thanks for asking. My arrival and opening hours on Monday morning had me sinking to dangerous, perilous levels of 'out of my depth' waters, but I waved my arms frantically and managed to gasp for breath before arriving on the metaphorical dinghy with fellow newsroom journalists.

Good God, I hope none of them manage to read this.

Commuting to London, or moreover FROM London on the return leg is set to send my blood pressure into next year as I dash around Liverpool Street station to the designated platform, raising my otherwise crestfallen head in prayer at the availability of a damn seat. Due to not being suited nor carrying a battered, world-weary suitcase it would seem I'm far from worthy of a space on the locomotive and thus I arrange myself around a veritable birdsong of tuts and grunts from the less than appreciative faces. "Media Guardian dontcha know.." I offer as way of repentence. "Did you not hear me man? The Guardian!" Yet it is of no use, as I am met with the complacent grimace that is spared for the most corrupt of hacks. Sigh.

Aside from the trauma of travel, I received a pleasant phone call from Wandering Step's rehearsal room 'management' at Liverpool St, informing me of a hefty £170+ bill to be paid in rent before we return. Saying the correct thing to these people is relatively simple, yet acting on my word is quite another.

Celebrity Big Brother caused quite a stir in the newsroom today(sorry, I would say 'office' but it isn't an office as such) as Germaine Greer waved her white flag and slipped out of the back door. I understand that the world I am experiencing find great interest in such occassions, but when the most vital of speech from participating celebs is muted (legal reasons apparently) then it becomes a strain to reamin tuned in. This, coupled with the fact that Bez has remained relatively sane has brought the show crashing to its feet for myself. Nonetheless, sat watching the programme during working hours for choice quotes was a pleasure.

Ella Guru is all I have listened to since returning to Essex on Sunday. I have grown to love it.

Big Brother's Little Druggy

2005-01-07T11:29:00.000Z

Forgive me for this small sin, but how fantastic was it to see Bez being thrown into the wilds of The Big Brother Celebrity show last night?

For as long as the guy exists in the house, it shall be essential viewing. I remember seeing him on a kids TV show a couple of years back, and he scared the hell out of everyone with some particularly gruesome inarticulated sentences and his trademark dances to virtual silence. It was also thumbs up to Big Brother for ignoring X-Factor loser Rowetta waving Bez off as he left his 'friends', especially considering this.

In actual fact the whole sordid affair of BB was quite enriching last night. I particularly enjoyed the faux pas of the security guard uttering far too loudly 'Don't worry, it's just for the cameras.." as the Ex Hollyoaks guy, Jeremy Edwards, was frisked upon entry. I can only assume they are allowed to take whatever they damn want into the house on that news...Bez, arriving with bottles of alcohol, then claims he knew nothing about 'luxuries' to the horror of Caprice.

Also, you have to perhaps feel sorry for the programmers who seem to have slim pickings this year. I understand fully that the point of 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!' was to further careers, but I didn't realise that was the point of Celebrity BB. I admit shame in having no idea who the thoroughly irritating Nielsen woman was, nor the scamp of a lad from Blazin' Squad. Typically, they've mixed a bunch of opinionated loudmouths (vitriolic Essex girl Germaine Greer and DJ Lisa I'Anson) with the pure stupidity and ridiculousness of the aforementioned Bez. Quite where John Horse Racing chap (No idea how to spell his surname so I can't find a link) fits in is beyond me, although from his pre-filmed introduction you can't help but feel he was trying a little too hard.

Regardless, with it still being very early days, I recommend you take a look and get voting to keep Bez in.

UPDATED: According to NME.com, Bez is the favourite with Ladbrokes. Go on Bez you daft simian!

Bit of a giggle..

2005-01-06T19:34:00.000Z

Two posts in one day..you lucky, lucky people.

Wandering Step shows 2005!

Thursday 17th February - Manchester, Jabez Clegg - 'The Great White Chocolate Debate' with 28 Costumes + For Tomorrows
Wednesday 23rd February - Wigan, Lux Club
Sunday 20th March - Manchester, Roadhouse - Pop Art presents...Herman Dune + The Wandering Step

More to be confirmed, although don't bank on it.

I'm looking forward to playing Wigan (!), having only endured a fairly dreadful Babyshambles gig there early last year. The Manchester two marks The Step's debut at Jabez and a return to the Roadhouse for the first time since our second ever show back in Summer 2002, and Herman Dune are definitely worth a look too.

Meanwhile, somebody should lynch the guy who sold the Christmas tune on eBay for over £3. Why the hell should he profit from something we spent a packet on and gave away, even if it is only £3.20!...and no, it wasn't me.

Spot the pitiful director

2005-01-06T13:17:00.000Z

Having just endured an hour of pure tedium in the company of Tracey Emin's debut 'film' Top Spot, I don't recommend anybody follows suit. For all its harsh reality and overbearing sense of 'don't ignore it, this happens' she shovels by the barrel-load to us, my major gripe stops at how unplausibly amateur the film is. Everybody's a critic, but there seemed to be no correlation between scenes, nor fluency in her rather half-baked ideas. Whether this is all part of her 'art' which is far removed from an East London warehouse is open to argument, but I have to fully agree with Emma Brockes and admit to finding the whole thing a terrible bore. However, I admire Emin's other works and stand by it, but on this effort she should leave the film making to the film makers.

I have been listening to Aberfeldy today. I bought their album from ebay on the cheap and I am not overly taken by it. They are very whimsical, and the album just drifts past without much to grab you by. I really liked the 'Heliopolis By Night' single, so I am hoping there may be more to it on further listens.

Konchita, I once met a girl named Konchita

2005-01-04T13:24:00.000Z

I've this week to myself before trekking back down to the country's hub for a couple of weeks experiencing work at the Guardian. My current reading flicks between 'Essential Law for Journalists' (for note making purposes only) and Dan Gillmor's 'We The Media' (an exceptionally detailed look into the future of the 'journalist' and how New Media has incorporated the grassroots reporter) with some lighter relief coming from Bob Dylan's Chronicles. There must be a career in there somewhere surely, although I will be content to leave the law at the door.

The band needless to say pick up where we left off with hopefully the first practise of 2005 on Wednesday evening. It's time to get recording some new demos, this time with David's (guitarist) input..and no you won't be getting them for free. In actual fact, it's doubtful you'll be hearing them at all. I don't even know what we're recording but I shall duly demand that, 'Step Into My Life' (you will have heard it at the last 5 shows) and 'Gonna Get Me Some Religion' (you won't have heard it, ever) gets placed to disc because they are sounding pretty fine at present. The slower ones are too (Rogue Testimony, Regional Sinner), but I think for demo purposes only, they can wait their turn for now. These opinions are subject to change

I have been harassing promoters, and will hopefully be able to confirm some early shows within the next week or so, but don't hold your breathe.

Christmas CDs have been outplayed since the holy day, and The Czars, Mirah and Micah P Hinson are all particularly enjoyable in their lush/weird/folksy mannerisms. The Uncle Tupelo album has grown on me, and Radio Dept's debut LP is also welcome to stay around for a bit longer too, as I reminisce the sweeter sounds of Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine.

For those that read this blog regularly, I finally got my £2.40 DVD through the post not too long ago, and yes it is totally ripped off with some monstrously glittery paper for an inlay. However, it was to be expected and the film (Before Sunset) thankfully plays just fine. On the other hand, I was disgusted to discover that my 'Supersize Me' DVD purchased on Ebay is also not what it appears to be, with 'For Screening Purposes Only' flicking up every 15 mins or so. It doesn't really alter the film and it took me its third appearance before I even realised it wasn't part of the documentary. I am assuming 'Outfoxed' won't be ruined with similar scrolling marquees. These damn fleecers, always out for a quick buck eh?

I heart 2004

2005-01-01T23:37:00.000Z

Everytime I turn the TV on, it always seems to be another ''Top 10 of 2004" cheap skim through any and everything on each channel. They all seem so similar unless they are repeats. Winners and Losers of 2004! Channel 4 spewed forth last week, with Dermot O'Leary taking us through the losers (feat. David Beckham - yeah damn, only another £xx million banked) and winners (I can't remember a single one of them!).

Whilst I was back in Essex for Christmas (how's this for a seamless link...), I and fellow cohorts chose a relatively tame ol' gents pub to 'catch up' called the Hospital Arms in Colchester, simply to get away from the wacky festive office parties. Upon finding a non-frequented table, it was with sheer pity that we discovered that Dermot was sat beside us. I umm'd over the possibility of 'Hey Dermy, love the work!!', but decided against it (I was sober, I. Was. Driving. Again) - Besides, I am neither a fan of his work, nor wanting to interrupt his quiet drink. Merely days later, I spotted a fellow mundane young'un presenter in Vernon Kay splashing out on very little in the Selfridges sale. I digress.
So, anyway, aside from the 'Look who I can recognise, these people don't know me nor ever will!' facade, these 'Best of...' shows are a ridiculous waste of money.

I have been on a Google to see whether anybody has passed comment on The Wandering Step's Christmas At My House offering. Here's the results:

John Kennedy managed to throw in another play of the song on December 22nd at XFM much to our delight.
Playlouder.com were subdued, but pleasant in their praise of the tune over there - Playlouder's review Libertines though? hmmm..
BBC Radio Scotland threw it out to their listeners on December 20th - Tracklisting for Dec 20th
The lovely BellyAche Fanzine gave us some yuletide cheer with their kind words too - BellyAche's 2nd issue reviews
Some punk over at The Subways forum under the moniker 'Kiddo' vollied a comment of 'Wandering Step are complete shit. Straight up.' which was far from festive. Well pal, so are The Subways, but hey, I'm not into slanging matches. today.
A western blogger put us on his Christmas Eve compilation, alongside The Fall, The Ramones, Death Cab For Cutie, My Morning Jacket, Sufjan Stevens and others..Check out his 24th December post for the tracklisting here.
Also, big thanks to the face over at The Dogs' forum, who said we cheered up her Christmas. Sweet words.
Alongside Music-dash.com and Artrocker Magazine, it hasn't been too bad a plan at all. And as long as you people like it, we're happy.

Happy new year..

Bright lights, big city

2004-12-24T10:11:00.000Z

I took full advantage of the logistics of being south, and tripped into London on Wednesday. Despite the cold, grime and dampness of the capital, I braved Berwick St for some last minute record shopping. Of all the things I miss being up in Manchester, it's the complete lack of quality music shops. For my full on dose of indie, I've only got the choice of Piccadilly Records and Vinyl Exchange. London has a solitary road of Selectadisc, Music and Video Exchange and Sister Ray before Berwick Street is sucked into the huge vat of Oxford Street and out into Borders and alike. Anyhow, I got an Uncle Tupelo anthology (Jeff Tweedy of Wilco's old band) which is pretty good in parts, but fairly meek country (ok, so they are considered the godfathers of alt-country) in others. I also picked up a Stuffy and The Fuses 7" (they of Graham Coxon backing band fame) but can't hear it until I'm back in Manchester.

I grabbed a copy of Artrocker magazine for the train home and was surprised to find a positive Wandering Step review of the Christmas song. Go find your copy in Sister Ray. Speaking of which, BBC Radio Scotland has aired the track this week, and Playlouder.com have reviewed it...'The Libertines' apparently, hmm...go have a look.

A trip off Brick Lane (dear god, that place really has lost it's erm, ooomph hasn't it?!) to Beyond Retro was pretty unnecessary considering it's just a giant warehouse of ol' grimy clothes.

I also stopped by at the all new Apple Store on Regent Street (I'm such a loser), which to all intents and purposes is a massive slice of heaven (ish). I toyed with the iBooks (why though?), Powerbooks, iPods (I need one) and assorted other gadgets before being taught how to send an e-mail at the 'lecture theatre', sitting and nodding gratefully along with bewildered new buyers. The staff were ace too, dead friendly and helpful despite the place being rammed.
I am considering deleting this paragraph, but considering it is Christmas, I will leave it here, for you.

So, Christmas then. I'm attending Upton Park on Boxing Day (fairweather fan that I am) so fully expect 3 points against the lowly Nottingham Forest (oooh, deja vu). (sigh) Come on you (sigh) irons.

Merry Christmas y'all.

Thumbing a lift outside the Beat Hotel

2004-12-18T11:10:00.000Z

I chose Blowout last night after much deliberation. We sauntered outside aA for too long, before walking the extra 15 paces beyond to Bierkeller. Did we make the right choice? Well, I dunno, I can't compare them can I?

We paid virtually no attention to the guy who was on first, Behind Green Lights. However. to his credit, one of the songs I recognised from somewhere else, and unless he played the Castlefield summer thing then I have no idea where I have heard it before. I am banking on it not being a cover.

Working For A Nuclear Free City certainly lack Christmas spirit, but that matters little when their monolithic instrumental soundscapes are so dense and brooding. I have seen them before, and enjoyed them more earlier in the year, but still, aces.

Fear of Music next...hmmm. I am not going to bore you with my opinion of this ridiculously young band (bassist is 14), but I am not a fan. Black marks for covering 'Where Is My Mind?' by the Pixies. There are some tunes you don't touch kids. Expect them to be loaded and massive by this time next year though, following in the footsteps of fellow Mancs, The Longcut and Nine Black Alps.

I didn't hang around for Beats For Beginners.

Hopefully Akoustik Anarkhy and Club Suicide saw out 2004 in style too.

Preston Vs West Ham today, so it carries that extra baggage. 3 points please irons.

When the music comes, I'll dance away with you

2004-12-16T13:55:00.000Z

It's no wonder Dan Step remains constantly chipper about this goddamn Wandering Schlep band. The man has full, and exclusive rights to the Step mailbox and gets to read, smirk, sniff and weep at the dear things you chaps write to the band. Unsurprisingly, the box is full of Christmas CD requests, but in amongst the fleecing blaggers that makes up the majority, you get the odd jewel of an e-mail. We've cheered up a few lowly mights, those feeling low during yuletide and been asked for multiple copies for Christmas presents (no, sorry). One young sprogrett asked for a gig in their living room, which is all well and good, but she lives in Bangor and the Step automobile doesn't travel well abroad.

More airplay on GMR last night on Terry Christian and Coni's evening show. Hopefully another couple of plays before the song becomes all but redundant by the um, 26th.

I am tying up loose ends in Manchester before heading south for the winter (like some sort of speckled hen - do they do that? I dunno) to take in Essex's christmas. It's likely to be elongated due to some work experience at The Guardian in the new year, but cometh late January and the Step ship sails on to cities afar for its 2005 adventures.

Seeings as you ask, yes I'm still ill. It's the throat y'see, not quite as strong as back in the day (check out those Christmas At My House backing vocals...ouch). Anyway, it better be goneth soon(eth). I guess going to Preston to see the Charlatans on Tuesday night didn't help matters. We were asked at the 11th hour to support said Charlies, but due to unforeseen circumstances we had to begrudgingly decline.

Friday night, what's it to be?? Blowout for ...Nuclear Free City and chums? Akoustik Anarkhy for their Christmas party, or Club Suicide for their last night EVER. I'm undecided.

Dissolve a pastille slowly in the mouth when required

2004-12-13T16:56:00.000Z

I am ill. not bed-ridden ill, nor particularly sickly either, but my throat is wrestling with my non existant tonsils and the germs are ganging up on me.

This is neither here nor there when you consider The Wandering Step played their final show in Liverpool last night. A tame audience (to put it bluntly) turned out for the Sunday service, and it caps off an otherwise solid year.

Losing a guitarist, losing a record deal, losing our sanities, and breaking Dave's wrist weigh down on the negative side.

A new guitarist, new songs, new radio airplay, and new friends equal the positives.

I hope you are all enjoying 'Christmas At My House'. John Kennedy at XFM played it on Thursday night which is generally a good indication of whether we're still connecting out there. Since Steve Lamacq's move to 6music, Kennedy is the unparalleled indie stalwart, and championed the single back in 2002 with a repeated session. Anyhow, he clearly digs 'Christmas At...' so we're pleased, and hope the kidz are too.
Let the 4 instrumentalists know what you think with a quick note to yeahcheersforthat@wanderingstep.co.uk

I saw Golden State on Saturday and was non plussed by its teen angst dilemmas, yet complimented by a fine Shins soundtrack.

I was out of hot water this weekend and thus found myself dragging that metaphorical black crowd around again. Useless, useless water boiler. Useless.

School is well and truly out for summer, so the next few weeks require me doing precisely nothing.

Your number's up

2004-12-10T16:39:00.000Z

Just a short, but satisfying musical update for now...

Yesterday I got my hands dirty rumbling through Manchester Oldham Street's newly refurbished Oxfam 'Emporium', and came up trumps with Bronze Age Fox's CD compilation of their rareasagoddampacketofopalfruits limited vinyl singles that were randomly released throughout this year. Despite having said vinyl, the CD compilation emptied my pockets for £1.99 - Good job too, for it was all I had. It's part Beta Band, part electro-folk that although not as full as The Earlies' debut, is in the same ballpark. 'Dinosaur' is an ace track.

Apples In Stereo's Tone Soul Evolution is also warming the headphones, along with the new Woodbine album too.
In the same evening as the BAF find, I stumbled across the debut 7" by The Magic Numbers. I thought that release left the shops at the same rate as The Paddingtons and The Bravery singles (which, I am ashamed to say, I was too slow to react to) - However, I was sorely disappointed with said Magic Numbers single. I guess they are best described as Belle and Sebastian washing and ironing Polyphonic Spree's robes, but, um, not as instant.

It's West Ham Vs Leeds tonight, and I've £5 on Marlon Harewood to grab the first goal. 4/1 and I'll be quids in, but watch us draw 1-1 with him scoring the equalizer..goddamnit. C'mon you irons!

A last act of a desperate man

2004-12-08T11:18:00.000Z

Alarm bells ring as the assignments are read and re-read to infinitum for tomorrow's deadlines.

Therefore, I have not had time to give you a run down of Friday night's Bad Apple Club induction at the Adelphi in Preston. I have written a review of sorts for the webpage over at www.badappleclub.co.uk which may or may not be uploaded by the end of this week. Unfortunately it is one of those reviews that sees me with a solitary black cloud hanging over my head, not to mention the morality of reviewing a night featuring my own band. However, thrashes on the back to Dave and Dan Step for organising the night and thumbs up to Loose Canon and Silva Surfa for some noose hangingly good performances (what sort of a bloody metaphor is that?!) in the cramped confines of upstairs Adelphi.

The impressively packaged Black Velvets single (in a black velvet 7" slip) is not really what I expected, but has its highlights in a 'rock' (I.E. not Jon's ideal sound preference) kinda way. The Longcut's debut 12" travels along on a Rapture kinda vibe, and is pretty intense jerky yelpy punky stuff.

Tonight sees me drop my laptop on its well designed, and fully shatter resistant (like old skool rulers) casing, and forward roll over to the Apollo to see Kings of Leon. I've not got the new album, so I will no doubt flounder at the back:
a. Kicking myself for not knowing any of the new songs
b. Wondering if this is the last tune and,
c. Hoping nobody I know comes over to me drunk (I'm driving), to drool, "ALRIGHT MATE! THEY'RE BLOODY GREAT ...WHADDDDYAFINK??!

I was going to construct a list of bestest 2004 shows but I haven't exactly attended a plethora, and I really should be reading my assignment. For what it's worth, however;

1. Wilco - Manchester MDH
2. Bright Eyes - Manchester MDH
3. Alfie/Jack Cooper - Manchester Band on the Wall

Big up y'all.

Final call for all those travelling on our country's locomotive services and four wheeled hybrids to Liverpool Barfly (Masque? I dunno) on Sunday evening to witness the final display of Wandering Step in 2004. There will be free CDs to those that want them (you may have to ask if we haven't suitably decorated the tables) and we headline. Expect some stage presence at 10ish.

The beat goes on

2004-12-01T11:12:00.000Z

With assignments due within the week, it has been a frantic push to determine whether my work is really up to standard. Having turned my attention away from the whole process of structured writing and then subbing for two years, you tend to doubt your own ability and where you should be reaching upon your return. I am very quietly (emphasis on the quietly, not the very) confident (despite broadcasting this globally) that I have managed to produce some decent copy. I will keep you informed.

Flux Magazine deadlines are due, so I have been thoroughly digesting the new Bright Eyes albums for review. He has decided to release two seperate albums on the same day, one with a decidedly electronic flavour (Digital Ash In A Digital Urn). I was always quite content with his guitar (sorry I really should stop referring to the band as a 'he' but I forever associate the name with vocalist Conor Oberst) and vocals. Featuring additional vocals by Emmylou Harris on the 'straightforward' album (I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning) it's a very strong, if not an unusually short return for the pained political young singer. Bright Eyes is/are one of my favourite artists. The last two years has brought him/them to Manchester's MDH during August and both were memorable for all the right, and wrong reasons. 2003 brought the hottest day of the year, and breathing became a major hassle. This year saw Conor refuse to take the stage until England Vs Portugal Euro 2004 had finished. Yes, the game that went to penalties. Regardless, he is a fantastic, intense performer and this year's gig was only second to Wilco in the 'Jon's Gig Of The Year 2004' awards. Full listings soon...

I realise I have not commented on our Mill show last week due to the Christmas tune posting/assignment issues that have been taking up my much valued time. To be honest, this was our third visit to the Mill venue (we practise above it) and the sound just gets worse and worse. I am informed that it is a regular complaint, but it is so draining to know halfway through a set that what you are playing is not quite what the audience is hearing. The Paddingtons suffered from the same fate which is a shame because I was looking forward to hearing them. I was heading up the M61 when The Rakes would have taken to the stage.

The single purchasing this last couple of weeks has been understandably slim, with only The Beat Up (formerly The Beatings) 7" to comment on. I have always been interested in The Beatings because they seemed to come about at the same time as The Step did, and released their debut single almost the very week we released ours. They extensively toured and were last heard recording with My Bloody Valentine supremo, Kevin Shields before disappearing for a year. With a new name, some changes of face and an album recorded, they are back and the new single, with Shields' stamp or authority is not far from their original frenetic, punky sound. I also have The Longcut's debut 12" on its way over which Manchester has been salivating over.

I am going to endeavour to contact blogger.com to discover why I have lost the ability to link without writing out the html in full, thus making this whole blog business reap the benefits.

A final reminder for The Wandering Step's new 'Bad Apple Club' night upstairs at The Adelphi, Preston on Friday December 3rd.

>The Wandering Step + Loose Canon + Silva Surfa - £3 on the door (and Step DJs to welcome in December 4th)

You know I get a funny feeling, like an epidemic running through my head

2004-11-30T10:04:00.000Z

Joss Stone's warble is not very good is it? Listening to the Band Aid tune, she seems particuarly keen on letting out these unpleasant 'woooOOOAAh' sounds when nobody else is singing. The video shows her really enjoying this role, but you can't help but feel that if it wasn't for a good cause, everybody else would stop what they're doing and slowly back away from her.
Except Fran Healy of course, who would probably join her if it meant 3 seconds extra spotlight time. Tick tock Franny boy, it's all nearly over..

Nothing left for me to do, or you to say

2004-11-24T14:45:00.001Z

I've almost certainly reached a peak of unhealthy demoralisation. You will have noticed on the Step site that we friendly giants are giving away a free CD, featuring the 'Christmas At My House' tune that we've been sitting on for the past couple of years. This involved much shameless plugging (I hate pluggers) on various websites and a media list longer than my (and your) arm combined.

There's no paid goon sorting all this out, it's sheer group effort which has involved business size batches of jiffy bags arriving at my apartment, and CDRs virtually carpeting the floor. You'd find a similar sight in each Step abode and it's not fun regardless of what they tell you.

I ashamedly point out for one last time how to get hold of one of these not so rare beauties.

Send an e-mail headed 'Xmas CD' to gimmeagift@wanderingstep.co.uk with your name and address in the main message and a CD shall arrive on your doorstep before Christmas. Yes, that's right, before Christmas...not within 2 weeks like previous plugs may have pointed out.

A genius idea is now simply killing us all, so if you have your name down for one, you best be damn happy because it's all you're bloody getting. Anyone who has already spoken to me about one, need not apply.

Whilst you're at it, start requesting it to all the usual radio fools (Lamacq, Zane Lowe, Sturgess and Kennedy at XFM, Vernon at Virgin Radio..) If i were efficient I would list their e-mail addresses but i'm not and besides, it's time you lot did some work now too! Do I sound bitter? Sorry. The Wandering Step - Santa's little helpers?? We are goddamn Santa!

We are playing The Mill tonight in Preston, in support of The Rakes and The Paddingtons..Get down early.

ZzzzZZzzzz

Voices are scared of singing sad, sad songs, two, two chords...

2004-11-16T17:40:00.000Z

I came across an ace DVD site last night. It claims to be based in Thailand and is essentially a massive bootleg DVD 'operation' where they send over brand new unreleased DVDs for £2.40. Now, forgetting the obvious legal implications and the fact that they are likely to be dodgy copies (although they claim not to be), what a bargain-ous site! I've decided to blink hesitantly at it and order. Only one mind, 'Before Sunset'. There's something delirously ugly about ordering a film of that nature on some dodgy spindlers site, but it is merely a one-off. I shall report back. I just need a DVD player now...

I finally sorted out those photographs from the GMR session as well as one of the band upstairs at the Bandwagon gig. Unfortunately since using the sturdy Mac, the options to add stuff on this blog have been removed, so maybe the Step website will stick some photos up eventually. This blogger happens to look about 12 years old in the Bandwagon shot, and is less than impressed.

The NME tour was announced officially today, and I was spot on with my scoooooop story way back when. I'm particularly nonplussed by the whole event, but each to their own.

BBC Manchester reports that photographs of people dancing in the Hacienda are 'on sale'. Just in time for Christmas eh? What a positively sobering thought to have to meekly unwrap a present containing a 'snapshot' of someone totally wasted, flailing around in a club worthy of note many years ago. Sigh, a veritable bestseller.

A reminder of the final Step shows of 2004:
24th November - The Rakes + The Paddingtons + The Wandering Step, Preston Mill
3rd December - The Wandering Step + Loose Canon + Silva Surfa, Preston Adelphi
12th December - The Wandering Step + Everstrong + Echobeat, Liverpool Barfly

A Christmas mailout will be heading into your mailboxes in the next week or so, detailing Wandering Step free gifts for added festive cheer and stuff. Don't pass it up, this is generosity.

Audio for a universal language

2004-11-14T15:34:00.000Z

I went to a Kevin Cummins talk at the Lowry on Friday night. He was the NME Photo editor back in the day, and has recently released a book of photography that covered his beloved Manchester City's last season at Maine Road. The music photography was very good as you'd expect, with many classic shots of Oasis, The Smiths, Happy Mondays and Joy Division. Cummins also relayed a very interesting anecdote about Duran Duran's failure to be of any assistance to him on a shoot in LA at the birth of their comeback. Stories of faxes being sent upstairs to Simon Le Bon, and his reluctance to leave the room were quite humorous.

A few musical choices this week include the brilliant return of The Delgados with their 'Universal Audio' LP. I wasn't the biggest fan of 'Hate' having enjoyed their previous two. This is definitely a return to form for these perennial achievers!
The Don Nino album, 'On The Bright Side' is pretty impressive too, in a Jim O'Rourke kinda way.

Singles wise..Tom Vek (really quite poor), The Dears (Morrissey should sue), The Rakes (not as good as the debut), and The Others (not as good as the debut, but better than The Rakes' effort). Nothing hugely inspiring then, from that bunch.

I watched a documentary called Control Room this morning. It covers the way that Al-Jazeera covered the US attacks in a really interesting and objecctive way and one of my tutos has been recommending it for months. It's quite a serious piece of work as opposed to the humour added to Michael Moore's Farenheit 9/11, and doesn't take pops at individuals. Although the overall view is that Al-Jazeera may well be shocking to view with its overall coverage, it is no more shocking than the subjective nature of the BBC or Fox News (for example). Worth a look, because it is very well put together. Outfoxed coming soon..

That's my perogative

2004-11-09T20:42:00.000Z

It was a fun night on Saturday in Liverpool. Thanks to the people who came and had a look at us and the Bandwagon crew for their hospitality. If any of you are looking to invest in a great new band, scan your local independent's 7" selection for the Pop Levi single. I can't assure you it's worthy, but if it's even half as hot as their live show you'll be content.

Those who are planning to get along to our Barfly gig on December 12th in Liverpool, you can buy tickets at www.wayahead.com, www.seetickets.com or the NME ticket shop (essentially the same damn company) which will get you a ticket for £3 + booking fee which can't be bad. I realise that a Sunday is a pretty lame day for travelling, but it's gonna be our last gig of the year so your support would be greatly appreciated!

I'll write something of resonance tomorrow maybe. I'm tired.

Holding up the Bandwagon

2004-11-04T19:22:00.000Z

The Wandering Step pick up their crutches and hobble over to Liverpool on Saturday afternoon to play The Bandwagon night at the Zanzibar club. To our knowledge (for we ominously know very little), we'll be playing alongside The 747s, the intriguingly monikered Pop Levi and Emergencie, and The Joneses (featuring Edgar from scouse cult figures The Stairs). I can't really say anything else other than get down there early. If you miss it though, there's nothing to stop you booking early for our December Barfly show in the same city where we shall be unleashing our Christmas gift. The Wandering Step may be described as many things, but never shall we be described as selfish. Never.

Star Spangled Voter

2004-11-03T09:05:00.000Z

Ah, so very tired. I shamefully turned in at 3am this morning having been routed to BBC 1, and Peter Snow's swingometer. Classic television from Snow, jumping sheepishly out of the way as a virtual box, painfully red, shot up from underneath him. "Ah, Florida looks likely to go Republican!" he cried, before said box disappeared to an objective grey. "Well, perhaps not..." And so we continued questionably onward.

A combination of BBC 1, and the rumour mill working their conspiracy theories on the Guardian's newsblog set the scene, in my box last night and the smaller hours of this morning. The BBC's panel of David Dimbleby and some excited and resilient Americans (thoroughly irritating?) fought to and frow with live coverage from the equally as confused states. Ohio, clearly the most contested of states with Florida, has become such a breaker that I find it difficult to understand how they can simply ignore the fact that there are thousands of votes still to be counted. Maybe these people know more than they are letting on, but it all seems a little premature to me. This could be read as me being hopeful though.

The alternative of Sky News looked like an excited baby brother of CNN all night, and hurt the eyes to look at. Meanwhile, where is Snow and the glorious swingometer? He's clearly got some puzzled counters in his ear...

Zzzzzzzzzzzz

2004-11-02T17:38:00.000Z

Down and out

2004-11-02T10:55:00.000Z

What a thoroughly interesting entry that last one, 'I see shapes..' was. I can only apologise for bothering you with such stream-of-consciousness fuddle. You can expect better in future.

The NCTJ (Journalism training body) voice training was actually a highly comic interlude. As a class, we were encouraged to stand and let out all manner of gutteral sounds to develop our speech. It actually had the makings of a vicious 'you've been framed' style video nasty. Although I do have to question it's legitimacy, it was a thoroughly fulfilling experience, if not slightly unnecessary.

I'm presuming we will all waving our Democrat/Republican flags at the television this evening? Time differences are such a drag, but I shall endeavour to have the news on in the background, as I scan a plethora of websites tonight to see how Mr Kerry is fairing.

The Cornerhouse in Manchester is screening a one-off reminder of our fate with 'Farenheit 9/11' this evening, to get us all into the spirit of things. This election race has become somewhat of a calendar event, with the arthouse preparing us in a similar way that we may indulge our souls in the Nutcracker to warm up for Christmas. I shall pass it up on this occassion, having seen the documentary a few months previous. Three cheers however are due to Michael Moore who has allegedly set up video cameras at Florida polling stations to warn off the rogue elements that dogged the previous election. You can't blame him for not trying...

I'm going to slip a plug in here to all Mancunians, to make you aware of the new entertainment and listings magazine, 8020. It's free, so you've no excuses for not picking up a copy from your nearest venue, bar or boutique. My contributions, needless to say, follow in issue 2.

I see shapes when I argue...

2004-10-31T20:43:00.000Z

... you won't believe how many times I type '...' when writing something on the Internet. It's become my universal adaptation of the full stop, except it's longer, thus defeating it's whole purpose. I'm not even going to try and fight it, '...' is something that is automatic in my psych, and that's where it shall stay...

I'm trying to delay furthering an assignment on 'Is The Council Tax Fair'? which has been the bane of my past three hours. It's for my public administration module, and is beyond conclusive reason. I doubt I'd get away with a simple 'dunno' answer, on the other hand a simple 'yes' would have me sacrificed for not knowing anything about the plight of the pensioners and a 'No' would portray me as a liberal that has always been at the heart of Kennedy's own cool Britannia. oh.

I'm particularly concerned with the prospect of spending two hours of voice training on Monday. , I have to question the relevence of voice training, simply because I can't imagine two hours is nearly enough time to learn how to breathe and pronounce myself. Quite what it involves is another matter altogether, but we must attack these things open minded surely? Hmmm..

I have spent the last couple of hours listening to the Talksport radio 'phone-in' channel on my poor man's digital box. It really is a quite harrowing experience. Listening to the pundits describe something with 'ooooohs' and 'aaaaahs' that the listener can neither see nor understand is quite ludicrous. The callers are generally quite amusing too with their staunch, aggressive football-ese "Nawww seriously though mate, you dunno what you're talking abaat..I wotch 'em week in week aaaaaaat.." To be honest, I imagine I speak fairly similarly when lamenting the plight of the lacklustre Irons, but the radio's anonymity adds something quite magical to the whole facade. I particularly like it when a pundit decides to slag off the caller, but is sure to cut off the call before the caller can respond...classy.

I shall consider reading some of Hemmingway's 'Fiesta' tonight and forget the whole sorry council tax situation even exists for now... Whilst I'm on the topic of tax though, it's come to my attention that despite me currently being a full-time student, I still have to pay taxes due to not living with another student...hmmm, fair you say?

'Allo Allo

2004-10-30T13:42:00.000+01:00

Firstly, some big respect and sadness dedicated to the name of John Peel who left us just before I flew to Paris. There's little point in me painting a picture of him, as we are all aware the man was/is an institution, a legend, and additionally played out some Wandering Step tunes. Thinking of you, Mr Peel.

Je suis tres fatigue (that's not even right) as I write this, but Paris was very much what we'd hoped for and more. I shall not bore you with an account of all things French, but we took to the streets with.. the obligatory touristy visits, ludicrous amounts of walking from left bank to right bank, coffee in the Amelie cafe (it's pretty grim to look at, but that's besides the point), coffee and reflection in Les Deux Magots where Hemingway drafted his epics (it's expensive and upper class, but that's besides the point), anti-vegetarian chefs - what does one have to do to eat a meal out there without the need for lashings of meat?, and a huge eyeful of tower. Great stuff, and a massive thanks to the French for speaking English, for which I shall be eternally grateful for.

Politically Correct

2004-10-26T09:57:00.000+01:00

I saw the remake of Alfie on Saturday afternoon. In the course of its rewrite it's transformed into a politically correct, feelgood hit which I'm fairly sure was not it's intention in the original. Let's face it, Jude Law Vs Michael Caine isn't really much of a contest, but you kind of warmed to the idea of the female population leaving cinemas across the land thinking Jude Law was a complete bastard. However, it was not to be.

Paris is calling me this afternoon, and on a budget I shall be walking the multiple Rues with vigour. I'm not totally sure what I'm going to be doing there to be honest, but i'm assuming it'll involve coffee and cafes.

If any of you reading this are still fans of Zum Wandern Steppen (sie), we have a Christmas treat in store for you all. And no, that doesn't involve a gruelling 12 band all-dayer upstairs at the Preston Adelphi on Christmas Day I'm afraid. We don't think you'll be diasppointed though...More soon.

NME still hasn't announced its 2005 tour yet and I'm beginning to wonder whether my scoop and source was solid. The Killers have sold out the Apollo in Manchester and thus, it would be a smaller venue tour for NME's shindig. I apologise for my leaked lies...

During the trip to Paris (for I return on Saturday), West Ham shall be taking on the European giants (?) of Chelsea in the Carling Cup. We're promised their reserve team, which should include old favourites Joe Cole and Glen Johnson, and the fading non entities of Scott Parker, Damien Duff and Kezman. 1-0 to the Irons then, with Lampard on a stretcher after 5 mins. You know where the smart money is..

There's no title today

2004-10-22T09:24:00.000+01:00

I've been reliably informed that the NME Tour for 2005 will comprise of The Kaiser Chiefs, Bloc Party, The Futureheads and The Killers. Well there's a scoop for you all! I saw the Kaiser Chiefs last night and they were an amalgamation of Leisure era Blur and Supergrass when they first started out. It's all very energetic with most songs being made up of 'woooooooooo!' and 'oooooh ooooh oooh's - not bad, but not great either. I'm sure the 'kidz' will love 'em.
I'm supposed to be seeing The Zutons and The Futureheads tonight, which will have concluded half of said NME tour in 2 days, but we'll see how that pans out, I've never really understood the Futureheads, and I'm quite despondent at the fact The Zutons are now worthy of Academy 1 standards, but we shall see.
Dogs/Nine Black Alps/Special Needs/Duke Spirit/Wren singles acquired this week. Not bad/pretty good/nice idea/ace/good - that's the best I can offer you today i'm afraid.

Some new Step gigs for you:
Liverpool Bandwagon - 6th November
Preston Adelphi - 3rd December
Liverpool Barfly - 12th December

I'm going to see Alfie (the film this time) on Saturday, so expect a full review before I depart for Paris on Tuesday.

If you got girl problems I feel bad for you son...

2004-10-15T15:36:00.000+01:00

I automatically apologise for the title here, you'll have to forgive me, for the soundtrack to Preston these days is a curious compilation of eclectic camp-electro and fairly excruciating jungle and 'euro' happy hardcore. Sweet jesus. Simply describing it exhausts me, so quite how David 'nobody will ever EVER understand my taste in music' Roocroft(er) compiled it is beyond me, but the title, as I'm sure you younguns will already have noted, is by Jay-Z. I'm listening to Willard Grant Conspiracy as I type, and I can see they have strong tendencies to opt for that gut wrenchingly insipid Europop sound, or is it folksy americana...one or t'other.

Before I forget, our Wigan excursion has been postponed, due to venue 'difficulties' or summin (venue difficulties indeed). We can only apologise to those that had pre-booked flight or train tickets for the occasion...Don't cancel due to us though, there's meant to be a Casino there according to folklore, so go win yourself a tenner or whatever they do in those places.

I see the new 'Alfie' film is out next week.. It's taken them long enough to finish though. I recall, whilst plying my trade laying track for the transport industry last year, (I didn't, but for the sake of an interesting anecdote..) one of the streets in Manchester, Thomas Street, was transformed into an American side-street to film this re-make. On one hand, why on earht would you not simply film it in America where it is set, saving yourself the bother?! On the other, it looked very impressive, and the attention to detail was amazing. It was as if you'd literally walked into the states for 50 metres or so, with flyposting (even the road had US call-cards strewn across it!) and phone boxes/street signs/taxis/shop fronts/cafes etc. I look forward to viewing it.

I'm considering going to see The Meadow at Briton's Protection this evening, alternatively there's B-Music at Cornerhouse, or Bobby Conn at Blowout. I'll probably end up doing none of the above, and sitting down to watch Eastenders and maybe its repeat some hours later.

Any new music purchases this week Jon? No, notthing at all, which is 2 weeks running. What's happened? I'm not sure, but rest assured the Nine Black Alps 7" (as limited as a parking space in Preston - that's me giving you a similie, not the song title by the way..) is out on Monday, so I shall snaffle one of those to sell on for a mortgage on eBay if it's not to my taste.

This has gone on long enough.

do do do, come on and join the conga

2004-10-12T21:11:00.000+01:00

I saw 'Wimbledon' on Sunday night. Why? Ah, I am a sucker for rom-com 'flicks' - The lead actor, Paul (I forget his surname) had the appearance of a slightly battered Stuart Murdoch from Belle and Sebastian, and that painfully foppish 'i am so, so damn uh um, pleasant' character of Hugh Grant. Kirsten Dunst completes her 170th film in as many days. If you forget the fact that tennis 'stars' would presumably have a strict health regime, and wouldn't therefore be pondering the delights of wine on the London Eye on the eve of a tournament semi-final, the film is just about passable.

I write this entry on my new Ibook, as detailed days back. Wonderful creature it is too, if not prone to a bout of uncleanliness. White is a lovely colour, but far from convenient.

My ears heareth a spate of similar car 'attacks' by the Preston delinquents, and this weekend I've been carefully analysing and consoling myself with copies of 'How to cope with a criminal attack' thoughtfully supplied by the Lancashire constabulary. I return to the scene of the crime on Wednesday evening, but understand now where not to park.

With my 'day off' tomorrow, I've planned a visit to the Urbis gallery, to have a viewing of 'Ill Communication 2' - an exhibition of world grafitti art that has caused 'Keep Britain Tidy' to drop their collective street rubbish, and run aghast at the idea that Manc scallies may get ideas above their station to the streets of our fine city. Is it a much needed platform or 'blank canvas' for the street artists, or is it glorifying the vandalism we pay taxes towards ridding our walls of?

X-Factor has filled the house with horror over the past couple of weeks, and everyone seems to be kicking up a fuss over the eccentricity of one larger than life 'Rowetta' - Why does nobody feel it just to point out that she was the token female within the Happy Mondays? The programme and 'judges' give the impression she's this 'nobody' that has walked in off the street with the voice of an angel, and the character of a madwoman. Maybe there has been mass press retribution, but I must be looking in the wrong places...

Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick

2004-10-08T09:50:00.000+01:00

Wednesday evening took The Step back to Preston for the first band practise since David R's sabbatical in Paris. We churned out the hits and after a group hug returned to my trusty automobile to siphon back to our alloted abodes. But oh no, don't be ridiculous, that'd be far too convenient wouldn't it? Giving that we are in Preston a we should thus expect mindless thuggery from the army of militant teens who see fit to smash a crow bar (Burberry crow bar?) through my back window, making the car seemingly unfit to drive.

Jesus Christ, what the is wrong with these people!? Cue frantic phone calls trying to get the window fixed, which proved a greater task than it sounds. RAC refused to tow the car within 10 miles of its current residence (that's no use to me), and after conflicting information that yes/no, it is/isn't illegal to drive the car on the road, me and David R hotfoot it up the M61 to Bolton where our friendly Autoglass employee proceeds to fit a new window at our midnight appointment time...for £50 (I'm insured kids, it pays to be insured)

Now, to relate the rest of this blog entry to the aforementioned vandalism, I'd write a thoroughly convincing 10 (20?) points on why you should never live in, or spend any frequent time in Preston, but due to reasons that this may upset more than it entertains, I'll just say don't ok? Preston Suks, and someone, somewhere owes me £50.

The Wandering Step are pleased to announce a Liverpool 'Bandwagon' show at Zanzibar on Saturday November 6th. This comes just three days after our debut Wigan excursion. News also filtering through that we are soon to confirm our first, and undoubtedly last Preston gig (Ugh) of 2004. More information to come soon.

S'long PC...

2004-10-06T13:12:00.000+01:00

It's the end of an era is it not? For, in the next couple of days I shall be waving farewell to my (un)faithful PC and introducing myself to an Apple IBook G4. Oh sweet Jesus my friends, am I excited at this new acquisition! I haven't the faintest clue how to control such a beast as yet, but hey, it's a computer isn't it? They all do roughly the same thing, but none as well as my beloved IBook!!

To bring me down a few notches, I received a parking fine in Preston on Monday afternoon. For Christ sake warden, cut me some slack! He/she would be well aware that the parking for students in Preston is abysmal, and I didn't park my vehicle to obstruct or irritate anybody else, it just sat there in a side street until I returned..but oh no! the dear warden informs me that my car was on Vine Street at 13:37 AND DIDN'T MOVE AS OF 13:43..the shame! So £30 goes direct to the council to pay said warden to walk around for another few hours and clock up these fines. I feel like writing a complaint but haven't the time to spare, and haven't a leg to stand on either way.

Mr Conor McNicholas (ed of NME) advises 'us students' in this week's supplementary student guide, that to succeed in the world of music journalism, we must 'get involved':

He suggests:
Start A Blog - check
Run a fanzine - no no no, fanzines went out with the shellsuits Conor. The uni paper/mag is the 'way forward', and yes, that's all done nicely thanks..
Talk about what you like with friends - !? Top advice, who'd have thought talking about bands with your mates is instant success in a difficult industry?
Copy your favourite NME journalist - Um, hmmm.

It's interesting (!) to note that Conor studied Philosophy at Manchester University. This, a guy according to the rumour press, that upon getting the NME's editor job, had to enquire the location of the Barfly in London (the philosophy degree and location of the Barfly aren't connected by the way...treat them as seperate entities..ta). I also read that due to us being in these Downloadable times, the weekly singles reviews are going to be no more. That riles me, because when singles are released I want to know what sort of thing these new bands are doing, and the singles page was pretty damn useful. We now will get a 'downloads' page, so that we can see what we are able to download, which doesn't really apply to me at present. I want the product, not the sample.

That said, I'm not hugely endearing myself to these people now am I? However, this guy (boycott the NME) clearly sees himself as a revolutionary, and promises 'big name campaign supporters' - I guess that adds up to a bunch of failed bands that got a slagging at the hands of the only weekly music rag. Don't fight it kids, it has no competitors and thus will be going nowhere.

Dot Dot Dot

Thursday came too soon

2004-09-30T09:53:00.000+01:00

Thursday already? Where has the week disappeared too? No sooner was I contemplating Monday's three hour seminar, before I realise I've already had my 'day off'. I say day off, I was infact hunched over a Media Law textbook, making notes on the finer points of the actus reus and mens rea. Quite.

Records you say? Well, Engineers mini-LP, The Rakes 7" and Help She Can't Swim 7" this week.
Engineers is an atmospheric, but slightly reedy and tiresome record. Worth the cheap fee though if you're at a loss but it's not really waking me up which is what I'm seeking right now. The Rakes is pleasant in its 6 month lifespan kinda way, and Help She Can't Swim is 'alright'.

A quiet week on the band front, with David off on a booze cruise to Paris. I say booze cruise, but presume it's nothing of the sort.

Manchester Music have given us some kindly words from the Oldham gig on their website. 'A big surprise' and 'sparkling charm and quivering intent' being the kindest. It elaborates on those points further if you go and have a gander in their live section.

The S button on this forsaken laptop isn't working. Well, clearly it is working, but you have to thrash at the button for it to produce said 'S'. Irritating ya?

Little Arithmatics..

2004-09-26T18:10:00.000+01:00

Oldham was a curious home for Saturday night's lesson in music. Before I begin, steer clear of AA Route Planner folks, it's full of good intentions but rarely lives up to the billing. 'Upon entering Oldham, turn left onto Union Street' That's as useful as saying turn left once in London and you'll arrive on Oxford Street, and caused aggrivation and irritation as we sidled past the likes of The Smut Inn and The Trap Inn (shudder) to little avail. To cut it all criminally short, the gig went very well, and the beer swilling local monkey went home happy, so who are we to argue?

Nothing else is booked until November in Wigan, but we'll just have to see if we can sort something out before then.

80 Mins: Nottingham Forest 0-1 West Ham, Full-Time: Nottingham Forest 2-1 West Ham. Woe is us.

Plug Me Into A Sega

2004-09-24T10:40:00.000+01:00

OJR reports recently that 3 Iranian bloggers have been imprisoned. Thus meaning that their criminal record will detail that these young delinquents formed their own opinion and trusted the online news media over their highly suspicious local news outlets.

It's painful to realise that the youth of Iraq still face being locked up for seeking to learn what the hell is actually happening to their country, and expressing themselves. The security officials that are heavy handedly blocking and killing off these websites are totally ignorant (there's irony in there somewhere) as to how the internet is structured, and their censorship is quite easily averted, but it's all so very backward and humiliating for those actually wanting to learn. In its loosest definition, 'we' have freedom of the press to say what we wish within reason, and the online media has opened this up to everyone aside from journalists. You can't help but feel the humiliation for those being treated as mugs for offering up a similar opinion over the other side of the world.

Anyhoo, Alfie were unsurprisingly grand on Wednesday night, and the new songs sound very strong, particularly, 'Tears At Tea Time' which came across all suitably infectious with that undeniable Alfie charm stamped across it. Jack Cooper was really impressive in support too.

I've made myself sick of that Bees tune 'Just One Glass Of Water' by listening to it on repeat for hours on end. Why do I do that? I hear a song which I think is fantastic, and then can't hear it enough, until yes, I have heard it more than enough and the magic and enjoyment is totally lost. I used to do it with new singles that were being debuted on the radio. I'd record it and listen to it solidly, and end up not caring for it at all after 10s of listens. Shame.

If you're planning on Oldham this Saturday (who isn't?!) then you may wanna get in earlier (say 8:30pm...doors are now at 8pm) as Chorlton's Silva Surfa is opening the gig, and much entertaining his solo 'show' is too.

Interesting to see Embrace go straight in at number one in the album's chart. How on earth did that happen? They must still have a massive fanbase because that album has been three years in the making, and the single 'Gravity' was hardly a great comeback. Admittedly their only competition came in the form of a Paul Weller covers album, but I'd have thought his followers were broader than Embrace's. The Mcnamara chap exclaimed in his usual feverent excitement the other week, "We were so out of it all, and you guys pulled us back. We had to get part time jobs and suffer heart palpitations, but we're back...C'MON.' etc in that painfully cliched 'feel my pain' rhetoric. Hmmm, I don't understand why they still sell so well, I was expecting them to follow Travis into The Conference.

Right, time to blog off.

All Time Lowdown

2004-09-22T15:53:00.000+01:00

Have I been neglecting you insipid reader of this fair blog? Well have I?

Sorry.

It's been a busy few days as I get myself together for the 'return to skool' antics in Preston to complete this goddamn Journalism degree. I'm sick of being told 'Everyone's got a degree, it doesn't mean anything anymore", yeah well perhaps, but what the hell does that say about someone who hasn't got one? Or didn't even bother to apply himself to finish it? Exactly. I want a job (really? cool idea Jon..) when I finish this course, and if I'm worth anything, the CV will be bolstered with a BA Hons of some description.

Monday in Preston was a lovely 'welcome back'. Within minutes of leaving my car to sheets of rain and wind, my umbrella went outside-inside-out and collapsed, leaving your favourite blog merchant drenched. It was so typical. This combined with missing half a meeting of enrolement (they seemed to forget I was back...bah), and spending 3 hours 'hanging' in turgid Preston was enough to almost have me ring the temp crew and pleading for my 'job' back. No seriously, that didn't happen, that would never happen...would it?

But if all that wasn't bad enough, I ended up returning to Manchester, parking for about 1 minute outside Sarah's work before realising I'd locked my keys in the car, and having to walk 35 minutes home to get my spare key, and 40 minutes (I was tired) back again. So. very. angry.

On a happier note, the Irons hilariously managed to muster a fortunate 3-2 victory over bottom of the football league minnows Notts County in the Carling Cup last night. I despair, but it is a small improvment of days of old, recalling windswept cup evenings in Oldham. Dowie, you'll never be forgotten/forgiven. Which leads me nicely..

Oldham Castle - The Wandering Step/Loose Canon - Saturday 25th - 9pm. Be thur.

I finally got hold of The Bees new album and it's really great. What sort of a song is 'One Glass Of Water'?? It's an unbelievable track of funky retro kooky guitar excellence.
The Elliott Smith album, which I've just finished writing a fairly nondescript review (shame on me) of for Flux, is also damn fine.

Also, further to my Libertines-copying-The Step shocker a couple of weeks back, I can safely say it took me 3 listens of Sarah's album to understand what people are talking about. It's not really similar at all unless you listen hard and try and piece together where the similarities lie. In as much as anything is a copy of summit or other.

Anyway, going to Band on the Wall tonight to see Alfie, who are planning a set of new tunes and some golden oldies. We salute them...

My laptop's making odd 'sickly' noises, so I shall depart.

Saturday Night @ The Castle

2004-09-21T14:40:00.000+01:00

Busy, busy, busy folks, so let me just throw this plug in your direction..

Electric Circus Presents...

At..The Castle, Oldham
Loose Canon + The Wandering Step (the previously announced Trash Money are ironically skint and can't get to Oldham)
Doors 9pm, Entry £2

The Step will be attacking the stage at 9:45pm...Loose Canon are worth hanging around for too, the new single on their own Akoustik Anarkhy label is aces.

Thank ewe..

In The City - Live from Pizza Express

2004-09-14T13:52:00.000+01:00

In The City rears its quizzical but deeply gratifying head in Manchester this weekend for its annual knees up of chin stroking and general apathy.

It seems many years ago (well, 2 to be precise) since we darkened the hallowed stage of the Kings Arms in Salford to pawn ourselves to the London bigwigs in this 3 day marathon of gig-atropolis for unsigned desperados. The "official" unsigned event (check out The Rakes, Ampop, New Rhodes and Mainline) of which this event is primarily aimed at, brings together the finest unsigned 'talent' from across the globe in the vain hope that it will kick start some sort of rolling stone towards fame, fortune and global notoriety.

It's the fringe events however, which tend to put on the best of the bunch, filling every damn nook and cranny (Pizza Express?! Selfridges?! Po Na Na's?! and the godforsaken 5th Avenue) with decent, cheap (if not free) shows. The respected local promoters thrive on these events, and having booked up a decent venue months previous, get to flex their muscles with 6-7 acts a night of top Manchester or, national unsigned acts. Blowout has reserved Bierkeller for the entire weekend and will put on the acoustic meanderings of Half Cousin, The Mountaineers and the epic, apocolyptic wall of sound that is Manchester's Songs For A Nuclear Free City among others. Similarly, stalwarts Akoustik Anarkhy (basking in the glory of cattle prodding Nine Black Alps onto the stage from day one) will be taking over the Piccadilly Gardens Hotel on Sunday with The Longcut and their own Loose Canon (also playing our 25/9 Oldham gig).

Unfortunately, some dubious 'promoters' lacking any sort of vision, take it upon themselves to book a venue (shop window?) and put on their mate's band to 'wow' record execs who undoubtedly have no intention of attending...or, having no idea of what the whole event is aimed toward, decide that the way forward is to gift the stripped down, Northern Uproar with a headline event a stone's throw from the delegates hotel. Inspired.
That said, it's a good call of ITC to work with these fringe gigs rather than almost ignore their existance which often appeared the case in events gone by.

So the next few days will see the Mancunian streets paved with flyers, cheap publicity stunts by the bands playing 'In The Gutter', and somewhere, some pretty damn good bands.

There's only one Ronald Mcdonald

2004-09-12T18:44:00.000+01:00

I saw the 'Super Size Me' documentary at the weekend (you know, the guy who 'amazingly' came to the conclusion that if he ate Mcdonalds food 3 times a day for a month, he'd um, get ill !)
and it was surprisingly good. I was expecting 'shocking' one-sided propaganda, but the reporting was balanced, and escaped without being branded 'typical' american hyperbole, although the idea itself is fairly daft.

Thanks to those that came out to the Step gig on Thursday, it was a decent return and I'm looking forward to the next one in Oldham. David managed to take the otherwise daunting task of 'new boy' with great aplomb.

Current listening - Hymie's Basement, Neil Young, Mr David Viner and Death Cab... (I'd put this into context, but I haven't the energy)

I need to find something interesting to make this blog worth reading, but at present nothing other than West Ham defeating Sheffield Utd 2-1 (big up new boys Fletcher and Davenport) is worth discussing.

Zip..

Step Into Night & Day

2004-09-08T19:51:00.000+01:00

Just a quick reminder that Wandering Step are on at 9pm at Night & Day on Thursday night. It's £5 (or £4 if you can locate one of us with a flyer in the area beforehand). Dunno who else is playing, I can't remember but give us a go, it's been a longtime..

Journalist Updates Blog Shocker!

2004-09-06T19:40:00.000+01:00

It was up and out to Leeds at 6:30am this morning, for the first day of Ananova action in the name of work experience. As my previous post made clear, I had no idea what to expect especially since Ananova has taken over the ents/news updates for the Orange Wap site and thus may not have even been a worthwhile escapade for a student journo! How wrong I was.. The day was swamped with me constantly scanning the pages of the internet for 'quirky' anecdotes, or entertainment/music stories on the likes of NME.com/Popbitch etc (a normal day off then..). I got quite a few articles published, so it looks set to be a pretty useful week all round for both my experience and the CV.
I've absolutely no intention of keeping much (if any) of this temp work on the Vitae, and thus work experience is vital in having a half decent looking CV for the media types. Even arriving back at Manchester, I felt obliged to buy Media Week and the usually drab Press Gazette...woop for me.

Rosie Thomas has been keeping my discman (yeah, christ I'm sooo ol' skool) occupied across the Pennines with her 'When We Were Small' LP. Very 'nice' it is too, but it's not something I can see me listening to regularly, with it being a little too relaxing and dreamy.

Title Schmitle

2004-09-05T09:38:00.000+01:00

Word.

I was up at 3:30am this morning waving my dearly beloved off to Portugal for her two week stint at being an assistant stylist. I am therefore tired, weary and regrettably skulking around looking for stuff to do. Thankfully I'm Preston bound in a few hours for practise, but that doesn't help me in the interim.
I've put The Earlies album on to lift spirits, but I can't help thinking they're vastly overrated. It's a decent enough album, and if I hadn't read all the hyperbole about them I'd possibly be enjoying it more, but when it cruises in on pretty much 10/10 everywhere, you'd expect to be blown away. I wasn't. They sound like an innovative Mercury Rev, and whenever anyone mentions Mercury Rev, you can't help but chuck in Flaming Lips too. I don't necessarily see the connection apart from the obvious off-key vocals and birthplace, but anyhoo, Manc/Texans The Earlies are in that ballpark.
I bought loads of music this last week. An early Why? EP, which is ace in a kinda lo-fi folksy 'hip-hop' kinda way. The CocoRosie album which again is ace but I find myself comparing them to Devandra Banhart, although David R informs me that that is simply due to my limited reference points. The Junior Boys album was bought on a whim in Vinyl Exchange after being recommended by people who talk the talk. It was appalling, like a camp New Order with softer beats, so it went straight back to the shop in exchange (cos that's what they do) for an early dEUS album. That one's growing on me, but I should stick to what i know in future.
I've not bothered with getting The Libertines newie yet. That's not in an 'indier-than-thou' dismissal, but simply because I'm not all that bothered by it. However, I've been informed on two seperate occasions now that one of the tracks is dead similar to 'Feel The Force...' by The Step. Not good news, but gee, what of it?

The Night & Day gig is on Thursday which should be class, and we've just discovered Trash Money (ex Sneaker Pimps...one time NME single of the week) and Akoustik Anarkhy's Loose Canon (recent Independent single of the week) are doing the Oldham show with us (Century FM single of the year/XFM single of the week...ha, beat that punks!) on the 25th. Good news (for people who love bad news).

I'm in Leeds every day next week for 'work experience' at Ananova. I booked it ages ago to get back into the whole journo thing which kicks off at uni in two weeks, but I'm pretty apprehensive about it now. I don't even know if I can write a banal news article anymore, or whether in fact I'll need to. Whatever I end up doing, it better be worth the 6am alarm clock.

Then Like My Dreams, They Fade And Die...

2004-09-02T19:32:00.000+01:00

I had a few things worthy of note today for this blog thing, but I've completely forgotten any of it.

It's my last day of 'temping' tomorrow, which is reason to celebrate, and a week 'til our first gig since November 03 too. Temping has been a pretty dour year, and one I really regret bringing on myself. I quit uni after completing my second year to focus on the band as we started to put a few shows together and generally doing alot of 'band' type things. Obviously I had to do *something* with my days, but studying wasn't one of them. I started temping because it's pretty easy to just quit, but sheesh, I've been going ever since. Until tomorrow!
It wasn't all bad though. Without tedious monotonous labour, I wouldn't have met David 'New Guitarist' Roocroft (that's the last time I explain who he is) who was also 'filling' in time.
So, as of late September I'm back to uni to finish what I started.

Before Tuesday night's GMR sesh, I went and saw Embrace play our rehearsal space, The Mill in Preston. I know, I know, shame on me etc, but hey, I actually used to rate Embrace back in my school days, but needless to say they were bland and tasteless in their 'colossal' way, and I left after five songs. Bah.

Sarah's off to Portgual on Sunday morning for two weeks with work stuff, leaving me Macaulay Culkin for two weeks. Any ideas?

Local Radio Blues

2004-09-01T01:15:00.000+01:00

Humble apologies dear reader for our 'session' broadcast on BBC GMR this evening. You may be with us in believing that our genial host asked inappropriate questions and thus got the kind of closed answers you'd expect. You live and learn, and having preceded us with Des'ree, you'd like to believe she will do too. Don't even get me started on the resident funnyman who took up valuable airtime either...

Roll on the shows.

Death Cab For Cutie

2004-08-29T10:15:00.000+01:00

I've read so many comments (all good) about this band, so I've ordered one of their albums. There was one in particular that I was after (I forget its name), but I can't seem to find it for a reasonable price, so I opted for 'We Have The Facts And We're Voting Yes'...Pitchfork Media recommends them which is good enough for me. Even Amazon claim fans of Modest Mouse will love this, so I'll let you know how I get on with it.

The Wandering Step Mailing List went out on Friday afternoon, if you're not on it here's what you missed -

Been a while hasn’t it? Fear not..

The Wandering Step are back. (woop)

The basics,

OUT

Guitarist
Dan Amos – Illness

IN

Guitarist
David Roocroft

With that in mind, we’ve got ourselves some shows for you to buy us all drinks at, sharing in the mutual appreciation that your fourth favourite band have returned.

9th September – Manchester, Night & Day (ON STAGE 9PM) £5
25th September – Oldham, The Castle (Electric Circus Presents…)
3rd November – Wigan, Lux Club

Also, tune your northern (sorry southern folk) wireless into BBC GMR (Manchester) a little after midnight on 31st August (ok, so admittedly, it actually ends up being 1st September, but you get the idea…) for 2 acoustic Wandering Step tracks and an interview with the band.

The website has been rejigged and looking simple, so get back over to www.wanderingstep.co.uk and realise you’re missing an amazing opportunity to grab some free Step tunes. Not only have some recent recordings been streamed, but if you send an e-mail with your address to horatio@wanderingstep.co.uk - you’ll get the same tunes on a plastic disc – delivered to your door!!

We’ll catch up with you guys next month,

Cheers,
The Wandering Step'

If you're not on the mailing list, and wanna be, e-mail horatio@wanderingstep.co.uk and he'll sort you out with these mailbox gems. Get your radios at the ready for that session/interview on Tuesday night.

Let's hear it for the '50 Quid Bloke'

2004-08-26T10:32:00.000+01:00

Whilst I'm still sat here, meandering over my next move (I have two days off before I move into my final week of temping) I had a snoop over to Simon Waldman's 50 Quid Bloke blog, and whilst encouraged by his enjoyment of the Ella Guru album, was chuffed to see The Wandering Step mentioned in an earlier entry.
Have yourself a quiet gander, under the 'Let's hear it for Preston's finest' post.

For the record my friends, let's get this straight, I am an 'Iron in Exile' having lived the first 18 years of my life in Essex. Only then did I hotfoot it up the M6 to Preston/Manchester purely for educational purposes.
Therefore, I have very much gained my ribbons as a West Ham fan (Do I even need address this situation? I can hardly be labelled a glory hunter can I? Colchester United, Shmolchester United).

Regardless, props to Mr Waldman

A State Of Flux

2004-08-26T10:05:00.000+01:00

As I type this, I've got the debut EP by a band called Giant Drag on, and they're not too bad at all. Spin magazine describes it as, 'Mazzy Star stumbling home from a pub crawl' and they're not far off. They're not a million miles off the Fiery Furnaces either in their sound, worth a listen.

The latest issue of Flux is out this week, and I've got my first *full* page interview with Mancunian pop-electronica (what?!) artist King of Woolworths in it. KoW did the dreamy Orange advert a year or two ago, and his new album 'Rediffusion' is out next month. Having cut my teeth on the small features, it's pretty ace to get a full-page in the magazine. I've also reviewed Sub Pop's latest Shins-soundalikes Rogue Wave's debut album, A post-rock compilation, the Modest Mouse album and something else I've since forgotten. If that's not enough to make you rush out and get a copy, there's a free CD attached with tunes by the legendary Billy Childish, the aformentioned King of Woolworths and beat-bum-poet John Cooper Clarke. You can get it in, um Manchester, London and New York (if you fancy the trip...). Ok, plug over.

For The Record...

2004-08-25T07:22:00.000+01:00

I was pointed in the direction of an interview with Mick Collins last night. Mick is the lead vocalist of Detroit garage punk godfathers The Dirtbombs, and we supported them last year in Manchester. Anyway, the chap was asked if any 'up and coming' bands had caught his eye, to which he responded, 'We saw a band in Manchester called The Wandering Step, and they were really good'...good call ol' boy! Nevermind the fact that this guy was instrumental in Jack White picking up a guitar, but he pretty much shaped the Detroit guitar scene. Maddest props Collins, your band ain't so shabby themselves.

West Ham scraped (and I mean scraped) a spineless 2-0 win over Southend, which to a degree is worthy, but doesn't take into account the fact we were playing at home, and were pretty much under it for the majority of the game. Pardew put out a young team, but still, our youths should still be thrashing a team currently 2nd from bottom of all the football league.

I have got to stop going on about West Ham, it doesn't make for interesting reading.

Oh Teddy Teddy...

2004-08-24T19:04:00.000+01:00

It riles Dan to hear West Ham fans singing the infamous Teddy Sheringham song, and although I have to agree with him, I'd much prefer balking out that than last season's DEANOO at stalwart Brian Deane who virtually did nothing in a hammers shirt. Some of my earliest sporting memories are of Deane in a Leeds shirt on my old footie review videos, banging them in from all angles against West Ham. Sheringham on the other hand, is a prime candidate for hatred having earnt his colours at Millwall and Man Utd, but on Saturday's performance against Crewe he was sublime. Two goals and some ace deft flicks into Harewood was all he needed to prove his worth. We won 3-2 by the way, and this time we thankfully caught all the goals. I'm still unsure of this season, but we'll be on the right path if we manage to push aside lower league minnows Southend tonight in the league cup being that we're notoriously useless at progressing past these kind of teams.

I managed to get into V2004 on Sunday in Stafford, but the line-up was hardly inspired and I got frazzled by the sun to make matters worse.

The Charlatans put in a heroic performance, but The Killers, Divine Comedy, and Embrace were all pretty embrassing to be honest. I checked out newies Colour of Fire who were ok, but not really my thing, and ditto to The Dead 60's. With the likes of Dido, Athlete, Pink and Jamelia kicking up a storm, I kept a low profile for most of the rest of the day. Big Brovaz on the other hand were awesome. Not really.

Gresty Road

2004-08-21T08:18:00.000+01:00

I'm off to Crewe today to witness the demoralising experience of West Ham away. The last time me and Dan went, his train delayed him til after kick off and we walked into the ground 3-0 up, which fairly typically was the entire action of an otherwise dismal game. I'm in two minds as to what to expect today. On the one hand, we could quite feasibly crush them again, but on the other, having got stuffed at home by Wigan last week, it could go either way.

I've nothing much to add to that, except that the photos of the session have been delayed due to losing the fairly important lead connecting camera to computer. Give me another few days...

Your Bandwidth Frequency...

2004-08-18T16:09:00.000+01:00

The GMR session went alright, although it was all pretty nondescript to be honest. Two songs in, then out ya go. Not sure of how clear it'll sound out on the radio, but i'll remind you all nearer the time to have a listen when we go back there for the interview. I'll hopefully get some photos up and atcha in the next week or so.. and yes, they supplied me with the coffee..

It was in the pub across the road afterwards (The Thirsty Scholar) that supplied the more interesting moments. Firstly, we discuss practise room buds Fi-Lo Radio and in walks a guy wearing a Fi-Lo Radio T-shirt. Secondly, up crops the topic of Mancunian wonders Alfie, and lo n' behold in amongst rawk cliches follows 'Summer Lanes' by Alfie. Now that may not really be too odd, but I don't usually hear Alfie on a scummy jukebox, let alone an old album track. You couldn't script it could ya? No.

I was considering getting tickets to see Mark Thomas last night when he comes to Manchester with his stand up comedy-cum-investigative- journalist seminars in November, but I'm stalling on the £15 ticket for a show I'm not hugely sure will be worth the money. I mean, sure, he has his moments but not for £15 he doesn't. When I lived in Preston, I would almost certainly have got a ticket and travelled into Manchester. Since living here however, I've found nothing but apathy towards gig going (except the odd Blowout show and stupendous cannot-miss gigs such as Wilco).

With the day off, I've had time to listen to the eclectic sounds of Wire, Stereolab, The Shins and Air which all suited my mood at time of listening. Work that one out...

You've Not Seen Nothing Like The Mighty Quinn (?)

2004-08-17T18:33:00.000+01:00

Does anyone have any idea what that tune is about? I recall Coventry City diehards claiming it as their own for their tubby forward Mick Quinn a fair few years back, but what could it all possibly mean?

Anyhoo, I'm guessing that a migraine will fall upon my weary brow this evening, and I'll be forced to call in sick to work (loosest term possible readers I merely 'Temp' for the time being) tomorrow so that I can partake in The Step's acoustic session tomorrow lunchtime. We're gonna record a couple of tracks (as previously mentioned on this very blog) of which are Your Station and Rogue Testimony. As it turns out, Dave and I are unlikely to be doing anything but offering moral support to the undeniable force that is the guitar weilding Dan Step and latter recruit David Roocroft. Dunno what to expect, but the beeb shall hopefully have a coffee awaiting my arrival.

On to more serious matters, the MEN reports tonight that a 'have-a-go-hero' (I hate that expression, it's so patronizing), managed to jostle a thug stealing his car to the ground and sit on him until the police arrived. Now, in truth, the thug battered his victim with a wrench, but all this happened at rush hour on Deansgate, possibly Manchester's most busy road. Why on earth would a masked intruder choose Deansgate to steal a car, let alone when virtually the entire population of the city happen to be walking/driving by. As to be expected, he's been arrested and got away with nothing. Clearly he's stupid, but really stupid. Similarly to ex(is he though?) Libertine Pete Doherty, who having finally turned up at court today, looks likely to be arrested once more for possession of a knife. When this guy dies, the music media is going to blow up massively. The thieving heroin addict is portrayed as a martyr to our impressionable youth, and what at first appeared over the top coverage for his band, has grown into a much publicised, almost daily updated living nightmare.

Stop.

Sunday Blues

2004-08-15T20:44:00.000+01:00

Right, so it's already Sunday evening and I've got a headache, and with it being Sunday, am not in the greatest of moods.

The weekend was fairly eventful, with a trek over to Liverpool on Saturday, a painfully expensive meal back in Manchester in the evening, and a decent full-on practise in Preston today. Sarah and I also went and saw 'Before Sunrise' tonight, having unorthodoxly seen the sequal, 'Before Sunset' a couple of weeks previous. Although both films are minimal in content, they are definitely recommended, and perfect for a lazy end to the weekend.

I got hold of a copy of the Ella Guru album on Friday, and it's pretty ace in a 'softer softer' kinda way. They're from Liverpool and refreshingly have nothing to do with the latest Mersea skiffle influenced scrum pressing forward at the moment. Worthy of a listen, but you'll have to crank it up a bit, these guys don't do the whole loud thing.

My mood today isn't aided by West Ham's woeful performance against Wigan today. A 3-1 loss and small, uninterested crowd matching the team's effort. That's a win/loss/draw so far, and it's pretty grim to look at the league already. Me and Dan Step are off to Crewe next weekend to see if the team bother turning up away from home. I doubt it.

Water Joke...

2004-08-13T17:00:00.000+01:00

Right, so band practise last night was a complete washout. Me, and comrade David R (new guitarist for Zum Step) set off from Manchester at 6pm last night, and didn't manage to get to Preston til gone 8pm. Along the way I thought my car had blown up (smoke/burning), so cue me and the Rookster sheepishly venturing into the torrential rain and staring at the bonnet before retreating back to said automobile, having caused a minor hold up. The car, seemed to carry on regardless, aided by a small crew of Preston scallies kicking water at it (what the hell's the point? the car is already wet from the rain you uneducated goons).

Eventually we got there, and had a run through of some acoustic tunes (what the hell does a bassist do for an acoustic session??) and two (of two) are good to go.

We've also got some shows booked from September which will be our first outing since we supported The Fall in November, and we're now bolsted by a new member. They should be ace, and we'll get those new dates confirmed for you at next update.

United Utilities (to continue this water theme) have mostly been grating on me today, threatning 'debt collection agencies' if I don't pay a bill I paid 3 weeks ago. They overcharged us in the first place, so I'm having none of it. Swines.

Still, it's Friday...

Oh Christ, What Have I Done...?

2004-08-12T17:09:00.000+01:00

I do not condone my actions in starting this blog.

Having completely slated the idea of a blog for so long (it's not cool), the recent gushings of media coverage over its importance has tempted me to at least consider one. Having brashly pushed them away for years as being the desperate last point of 'CARE FOR ME' by lonely nerds, I came down a peg or two flicking through Salam Pax's brilliantly intense blog publication. This, coupled with the fact that the opinion's presented on a blog are starting to have some influence upon modern culture, led me to believe that this is worth a try.

It was Simon Waldman (Guardian) who informed me that, 'Online journalism is the new rock n roll' and who am I to argue? (I'll link you to his own blog '50 Quid Bloke')

I'm guessing you've probably reached this online 'diary' by way of The Wandering Step's webpage. That pleases me more than if you scanned the net and hazarded upon it. On the Step's webpage I used to write a page of absoloute irrelevence, which got updated once every 5 months or so. This is my basic continuation of that, which although I shall never get personal with, shall mix opinion with blatant tedium.

Never shall I promise you when this will be updated, because quite frankly, by tomorrow I may be through with it.

As it goes, I'm off to Preston for a band practise now. We've got a highly dubious acoustic 'session' to record at the BBC on Wednesday for GMR. It'll be broadcast on the fabulously unheard of, 'Michelle at Midnight' programme on August 31st, where The Step will also be interviewed. At midnight. Sheesh. I'll no doubt plug it again nearer the time.

With that, I'm out of here...s'long.