Retro Man

Down In The Basement Radio Show - 60's & 70's Soul, Funk and Rock 'n' Roll with your host, Alan Powell

2012-03-05T17:20:00.000Z

On "Down In The Basement" you can expect to hear soul classics from the 60's and 70's interspersed with lesser known R&B, Funk, Rock and Roll, Northern, New Breed and Independent Soul. Your host, Alan Powell has been listening to 50's, 60's & 70's music for longer than he can remember.

He started listening to straight ahead rhythm and blues and slowly morphed into an obsession with soul and funk. When he's not driving you to work every morning on the London Underground, you can find Alan searching high and low for the rarest funkiest records.

You may even hear Alan slip in the odd gospel record, which just goes to prove that whilst the devil has most of the best tunes...He doesn't have them all..!

Listen to the show every Wednesday from 6pm GMT at EN5 Radio or download Alan's Podcasts from his Podomatic site.

News: Monica & The Explosion French & German Tour Dates

2012-03-05T08:32:00.000Z

Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

Monica & The Explosion, featuring Swedish vocalist/guitarist, guitarist Monica Welander and ex-UK Subs bassist Paul Slack, will be in Jigsaw Studios, Peterborough next week, recording tracks for their new album.

Then, mid-march they will head off on a tour taking in shows in Germany and France, more dates are to be confirmed so please keep a check on their web-site for up to date news. The band are also confirmed to play Blackpool's Rebellion Festival in August.

Mar. 15th Wageni, Bochum, Germany
Mar. 16th Freak show, Essen, Germany
Mar. 18th Yoko Mono, Hamburg, Germany

April-May French tour: (more dates TBC)

Apr. 6th Café du Theatre, Dinan, France
Apr. 7th Le Galion, Lorient, France
Apr. 8th Les Valseuses, Lannion, France
Apr. 12th Le Dynamo, Nantes, France
Apr. 13th Mondo Bizarro, Rennes, France
Apr. 17th Le Chat Noir, Angouleme, France
Apr. 19th Houses Of Parliament Bar, Bordeaux, France
Apr. 20th Zic Zinc Bar, Limoges, France
Apr. 21st Le Baraka, Clermont-Ferrand, France
Apr. 27th Café du Boulevard, Melle, France
Apr. 28th 5ème Avenue, Orléans, France
Apr. 29th Les Combustibles, Paris, France
May. 11th L'Antidote, Bordeaux, France
May. 12th Le Houlala Rock bar, Bergerac, France
Jun. 1st Korrigans, Trémentines, France

Aug. 2-5th Rebellion Festival, Blackpool, UK

Check the Monica & The Explosion label on the right of the Blog for more info, review & photos.

News: Mick Jones' Rock & Roll Public Library at Subway Gallery, Joe Strummer Subway, Edgware Road, London March 09th-31st

2012-03-03T18:22:00.009Z

Clash memorabilia from the Chelsea Space exhibition 2009 - Photo by Steve Worrall

Mick Jones' amazing collection of The Clash, B.A.D and cool Rock & Roll and Pop Culture memorabilia, is back on public display at Subway Gallery, Joe Strummer subway, Edgware Road, London March 09th-31st.

101'ers Poster from the Chelsea Space Exhibition 2009 - Photo by Steve Worrall

Intended by Mick to be a permanent reference library for use by both the local and international community, it comprises, ‘a personal, cultural and social history of our times, and through that it extends beyond the local to the global.’ The collection features a huge array of rare and interesting memorabilia from The Clash days, including hand-written notes, stage clothes, flight cases and gig posters. There are also many pieces from Big Audio Dynamite alongside various movie posters, comic books and pop culture items.

"Hello Mick, It's Joe. Okay I give up, you win. Call me, Love, Joe" - Photo by Steve Worrall

I'd been along to see the collection when it was exhibited at the Chelsea Space Gallery back in 2009, here are some more of my photos of the items on display.

Catalogue of the Chelsea Space Exhibition 2009

You can find more information on the excellent Strummerville site.

All photos by Steve Worrall

News: Sophie Lo Poster Exhibition at London's Rough Trade East - Now Extended April 02nd-May 03rd

2012-02-28T17:31:00.005Z

Exhibition now extended to May 03rd...

The excellent Poster Artist/Graphic Designer, Sophie Lo, has an exhibition of her music related posters at Rough Trade East, 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL from April 02nd - 29th.

Be sure to go along and check out her great designs and I'm sure copies will be on sale too.

I've already featured Sophie's Art on the Blog HERE, check it out to see some examples of her work.

Closest Underground/Mainline Rail Station to Rough Trade East is Liverpool Street, then it's a short walk through Spitalfields Market.

Review: The Godfathers "Valentine's Day Massacre" + The Len Price 3 + Lone Sharks live Islington Academy Feb 14th

2012-02-23T19:17:00.001Z

The Godfathers backstage, Islington Academy - Photo by Paul Slattery

It was a real thrill to be spending Valentine's Day in the company of The Godfathers once more. Who needs, chocolates, roses and fine dining when you can treat your loved-one to a feast of raw and primal rock 'n' roll? The last time I saw The Godfathers live was back in 1990 supporting The Stranglers at The Alexandra Palace, in what turned out to be Hugh Cornwell's last gig with the band. In a strange twist, shortly after the gig last Tuesday, the Godfathers' vocalist, Peter Coyne released a statement mentioning his intent to leave the band following their next round of touring and recording commitments.

Peter Coyne - Photo by Paul Slattery

This has come as a bit of a shock, well maybe I should say a huge disappointment rather than a shock, as there was a bit of tension on stage at one point just before the encore. But I do sincerely hope they can sort out their differences and get the long awaited new album released, as it was shaping up to be very promising indeed, if the new songs they played tonight were anything to go by. As we discussed in the Pilot Episode of the Retrosonic Podcast, The Godfathers were hugely important to us lovers of guitar-fuelled loud and honest Rock - they blazed a burning, aggressive path through the barren musical wastelands of the late 80's and early 90's. So, it was great to have the chance to see the band back together with the original guitarist of The Sid Presley Experience, Del Bartle alongside brothers Chris and Peter Coyne and drummer Grant Nicholas. There was a big buzz in the crowd as the band took the stage, and launched into a trio of faultless classics - "She Gives me Love", "I Want Everything" and their anthem, "Birth, School, Work, Death". I always thought Peter Coyne was one of Rock's great vocalists, oozing a menace that makes you involuntary duck when he picks up his mic stand and raises it above his head.

Grant & Del - Photo by Paul Slattery

He has a snarl that seems to wrap around every lyric in a way reminiscent of John Lydon. Bassist Chris Coyne and guitarist Del Bartle are ice cool behind their shades, and there's an underlying tension that crackles and spits in their spiky, cynical songs. The great tracks come thick and fast, "Lonely Man", "Love Is Dead" amongst many others culled mainly from their first three albums. There is a lot of pushing and shoving in the mosh-pit, resulting in a couple of near casualties as the dancing gets a little too energetic.Whilst there isn't quite the all out visual assualt of the Kris Dollimore/Mike Gibson line-up, musically, Del covers the old two guitar attack extremely well on his own. The band end on a cover of Ramone's classic "Blitzkrieg Bop" and then it's over. Let's hope it's just this gig that finished abruptly and not the band itself!

Chris Coyne - Photo by Paul Slattery

Peter Coyne - Photo by Paul Slattery

The Godfathers - Peter, Del, Grant & Chris - Photo by Paul Slattery

Before The Godfathers, The Len Price 3 got a well deserved encore for their thunderous set of well-honed, melodic Garage Rock. Space restrictions meant that drummer Neil Fromow was pushed centre stage and his moment in the spotlight was not wasted.

This was Neil's best performance of all The Len Price 3 gigs I've seen, his backing vocal harmonies are a crucial part of the band's appeal, lifting the songs to another level of insistently catchy gems. He resembles Keith Moon, not just in appearance but also in the way he drums and immerses himself in the music. He's flanked by bassist Steve Huggins, Steve has no regard for his own safety or for that of the audience as he careers around the stage. His bass is a weapon of mass destruction, and I'm not joking, as I've nearly been decapitated by it..!! On Neil's other side is livewire vocalist and guitarist Glenn Page, who is also a hyperactive performer, leaping into the crowd during their cover of "Comanche". As a band they are a blur of energy, and the audience certainly took to them and were rewarded by the encore of "Shirley Crabtree".

The Len Price 3 - All photos by Paul Slattery

First band of the night were The Lone Sharks from Bristol. I only caught a bit of their sound check and one song unfortunately, and from what I heard they were good too and I'd certainly like to see them again. Their album "Supply & Demand" is really great, a mixture of good time Punk Rock & Roll that brings to mind The Buzzcocks and New York Dolls. Worth checking out indeed...

News: The Len Price 3 - Seaside Special Part 2 Saturday March 17th Live at The Railway Hotel, Southend-On-Sea + Bif Bam Pow! + Radio Podrophenia Roadshow

2012-02-23T15:48:00.000Z

The Len Price 3 will play at The Railway Hotel, Southend-on-Sea on March 17th. A joint promotion with Retro Man Blog and our chums at Podrophenia, the support comes from the excellent local Beat 'n' Soul combo Bif Bam Pow!. DJ's Piley & Mondo will be spinning the discs under their Radio Podrophenia Roadshow guise so it's sure to be a superb night!

The Glory Boys Mod Radio Show on 6 Towns Radio

2012-02-19T20:50:00.000Z

I was recommended this radio show from some pals who have great taste in music, and I'm having my first "live" experience as I type and I must say I'm really enjoying it. Host Alan May, rattles through proceedings with a minimum of chat but a maximum selection of great music. There are some classic tracks from the big hitters such as The Jam, Chords and Merton Parkas but these are joined by lesser known numbers from bands such as the excellent Cycle Paths and The Mild Mannered Janitors. Here's some info on the show, I recommend you tuning in, they have a friendly bunch of listeners too!

The Glory Boy Mod radio show Presents a feast of Modernistic delights kick starting from the 6T's revving it thru to the revival period and speeding into the modern day...Sunday's 7pm till 9pm with replays Fridays at Midnight

This week we feature 'The Advance of the Ace' EP from The Ace, along with showcasing Detour records latest release from SEMA 4. The show is mashed with grooves from the following Mod bands..Secret Affair, The Clerks, Phaze, Small Hours, The Loop, Speakeasy, Merton Parkas, The Who, Long Tall Shorty, The Moderns, Mild Mannered Janitors, The Cycle Paths, The Mods, Squire, Blind Alley, Purple Hearts, The Same, Beatboy, The Sharp Darts, The Crooks, Wideboy Generation, Run229, The Chords, 5:30, The Lambrettas, Dress Code, The Jam, The Vapours, The Len Price 3 and Seventeen...

I do hope you can listen in and even join us in the chat house.....

Listen to the Glory Boys Radio Show live here 6 Towns Radio and check out the Facebook page here.

Review: Monica & The Explosion - Live at The Grey Lady Music Lounge Royal Tunbridge Wells February 08th

2012-02-18T17:03:00.000Z

Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

A nice little excursion to picturesque Tunbridge Wells to catch my first Monica and The Explosion show and it was well worth the trip. I'd been impressed by the album "Shut Up!" so was really looking forward to seeing how the songs would come across live. Although on the album they enlist a drummer, recently the band have been performing with the rather unconventional two-piece line-up of Monica on Vocals and Acoustic Guitar and Paul Slack on Bass. Any reservations on how this will work are soon dispelled as Monica & Paul take the stage and launch into their first song titled (I think...) "Heart".

Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

Monica strums away energetically on her guitar, laying down a solid rhythm and Paul's inventive bass lines add a swing to the songs so you soon forget the lack of drums or percussion. Next up is one of "Shut Up!"'s stand out tracks "Take It Or Leave Me" followed by the excellent "Ran Away". Monica is a great performer, full of energy and charisma and there is a natural chemistry between her and Paul that makes for a very engaging show.

Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

"That's It" from "Shut Up!" is another highlight but it's new track, the superb and emotional "Volcano" which is my personal favourite of the night. In fact most of the set is made up of new songs from their, as yet untitled, forthcoming album. Monica and Paul will head to the studio in early March to start recording tracks and it is promising to be a great record judging by the excellent songs peformed tonight. The too-short set is ended by "I Wanna Go Home", which is a rousing finale, the gig was over but we're left with the promise of much more to come in the future from this great band.

Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

We had a chat with Paul and Monica after the gig and both were extremely friendly so I hope to do a more in-depth feature for the Retro Man Blog and Retrosonic Podcast soon. I was also very chuffed to have a go on Paul's bass, the very one that he wrote the inspirational riff to the U.K. Subs classic "Warhead" on...I was transported back to the early 80's when I learned to play bass hammering along to "Warhead"...in fact my band performed a cover of it during our very first gig in our school hall...so I was very honoured! Nice for photographer Paul Slattery to meet Paul Slack too, they hadn't seen each other for many years since Slatts took some of the first iconic photos of the U.K. Subs original line-up.

Monica Welander and Paul Slack, Monica & The Explosion - Photo by Paul Slattery

I must also mention the great work that Paul Dunton put in to organising the night and it was really encouraging to chat and find out all he is doing to promote local music. The Grey Lady Music Lounge was also a very nice venue to see acoustic based music. Not the sort of genteel venue Slatts and I usually find ourselves in on our quest for raw Rock 'n' Roll...but the friendly atmosphere was wonderful. Please check out and support Paul Dunton's events if you are local.

Monica and The Explosion will head off to Germany in March after recording their new album and then play an extensive tour in France in April and May. Check their Gig page here for all the latest news on dates and venues.

Also, keep your eyes on the Retro Man Blog for exclusive news of a special gig at the end of June...!

Retrosonic Podcast review on Pushblog...

2012-02-17T12:25:00.000Z

We were very happy to notice the review of our first Retrosonic Podcast Episode from journalist and Author, Push, on his excellent Pushblog. The feature "Pod Gave Rock 'n' Roll To You", is very encouraging so we would like to thank Push for the kind words. Also mentioned in the feature is the influential Podrophenia, who have now expanded from Blog and Podcast to an eclectic live Radio show on Chance Radio. The show airs every Tuesday evening from 9pm. and has an interactive message board where you can pass comment during the show itself. Podrophenia has just celebrated its' 50th Episode, so we have a lot to aspire to with Retrosonic! Coincidentally, Mondo and Piley from Podrophenia will be DJ'ing at The Len Price 3 gig at The Railway Hotel in Southend-On-Sea on March 17th. More details on this to follow soon.

Please check out Pushblog too, as it features, not only a wide selection of interesting and often very funny musings, but also an Archive of Push's reviews and interviews from his time as a music journalist with Melody Maker and Mondo amongst others. Push has also co-written "The Book of E, All About Ecstacy" with Mireille Silcoff and most famously his collaboration with The Damned and (now...) The Members' Drummer, Rat Scabies on "Rat Scabies and The Holy Grail" under his real name Christopher Dawes. The Holy Grail book is a great read, part buddy-story, part road-movie travelogue and part, well...search for the Holy Grail...! It has been described as "The Da Vinci Code gets the Punk Rock treatment" and the cover carries great the tag-line "Can a Punk Rock legend find what Monty Python couldn't?!" There were rumours circulating that a film of the book was in production, which would be excellent, so I'll try to find out more.

Don't forget to check out our Retrosonic Podcast, the first Episode features a selection of groovy tunes from The Chambers Brothers, The Rezillos, The Playn Jayn, The Carpettes and The Saints amongst others. There is a "bonus track" interview with Rock Photographer Paul Slattery too.

The Len Price 3 - Seaside Special Part 1 Saturday March 31st Live at the launch night of Vinyl In The Attic, Torquay

2012-02-16T20:09:00.002Z

The Vinyl Avengers Present - Vinyl In The Attic Launch Night March 31st 2012.

At The Attic Club & Lounge, 13 Torwood Street, Torquay TQ1 1ED Tel: 01803 450 350

Featuring vinyl selections from Punk, Post-punk, Motown, 60's Garage Punk, Northern Soul, Ska and live Special Guests...The Len Price 3

Vinyl Avengers are DJs Loadz and Lady Jade who run Torquay's premier Mod & Soul Nights "Friday On My Mind" & "Retro Soul" on the first and third Friday of every month at The Green Room.

The Jetsonics - upcoming gigs...Croydon & Kingston

2012-02-15T22:32:00.012Z

Catch The Jetsonics live, London's premier exponents of three minute power-pop-new-wave-reggae-punk-rock, live! Compared favourably to The Ruts, Buzzcocks and Supergrass, this great band is worth catching in their element - live and on stage!

February 23rd Scream Lounge, Croydon & March 10th Grey Horse, Kingston-Upon-Thames

The Past Tense live at The Fighting Cocks, Kingston-Upon-Thames February 10th

2012-02-13T22:54:00.000Z

The Past Tense - Photo by Paul Slattery

We had a nice little excursion to Kingston-Upon-Thames on Friday to catch The Past Tense at the excellent venue The Fighting Cocks. The freezing temperatures outside were soon forgotten after a pint of superb Tribute ale and the friendly atmosphere in the bar. The Past Tense took the stage and proceeded to play through their as yet untitled, forthcoming album, give or take one or two songs. If this set was anything to go by it will be one of the albums of 2012 that's for sure.

The Past Tense - Photo by Steve Worrall

Kicking off with their great single "Feeling Bad" they then play two songs I haven't heard before "Angel Face" and "Jimmy's Love Song" which are both superb catchy numbers. Singer Andy Norrie-Rolfe loses his guitar strap through his energetic playing but keeps on going. It's then into their classic "My Baby", which was featured on the Retrosonic Podcast Pilot Episode as one of my favourite songs of 2011.

The Past Tense Guitarist/Vocalist, Andy - Photo by Paul Slattery

They play a cover version next, "Fighting My Way Back", then it's "Poison Arrow" which has a great chorus and then the night's highlight for me, the Ska-tinged "Nervous", which goes down really well with the appreciative crowd. This is a great track and would surely make an excellent choice as a lead-in single for the new album. The rhythm section of Ken on bass and Nuts on drums are very tight and keep the songs danceable and punchy. Sometimes they remind me of vintage Dr. Feelgood with Andy's chopping guitar and those great beats.

The Past Tense Drummer, Nuts - Photo by Paul Slattery

Then it's "The Optimist" and it's time for "The Wolfman", one of their best tracks with its' great 60's Psych style guitar riffs and singalong chorus. Vocalist and guitarist Andy is an engaging frontman, although he really doesn't have any need to keep apologizing for his guitar playing, he should just bash it out with more confidence, he has nothing to be worried about. "Wolfman" highlights all that is great with The Past Tense, sharp power pop with a punky edge, a nod to the past whilst still sounding fresh and contemporary. They end on new track "No No Blues" which although a promising song, maybe lacked that immediacy to end a show on, especially following "Wolfman". Still, a minor complaint, which if they had had time to play an encore would have been forgotten.

The Past Tense Bassist, Ken - Photo by Paul Slattery

So, definitely a band to keep an eye on, especially with the news of their forthcoming debut album which will be something well worth getting hold of. Good news is that I will be putting on another Retro Man Promotions gig at The Half Moon in Putney on Friday May 4th and I have invited The Past Tense to join up with The Jetsonics and The Len Price 3 for a repeat performance of last year's successful show. Details to be announced soon, don't miss it!

Here's one of my videos taken at the gig - "The Wolfman"

Keep up to date with news on The Past Tense at their web-site HERE.

Retrosonic Podcast Episode 1 Bonus Track: Part 1 of our interview with Rock Photographer Paul Slattery

2012-02-05T13:19:00.000Z

Paul Slattery photographed by Steve Worrall in Ranscombe Studios, Medway 2011

Steve from the Retro Man Blog talks to Rock Photographer Paul Slattery. Paul has released two books, "The Smiths: The Early Years" and "Oasis: A Year On The Road" both published by Omnibus Press. He has been there at the beginning with U2, Oasis and The Smiths, been taught the Rock 'n' Roll lifestyle by Lemmy and Phil Lynott, toured with The Stone Roses and Manic Street Preachers in Japan and captured such icons as Bob Marley, The Clash, Mark E Smith and Jeffrey Lee Pierce amongst many others. In Part 1 we discuss Paul's early influences and first steps into the world of Rock Photography.

Retrosonic Podcast Episode 1: "We look like stars but we can't pay the rent..."

2012-01-31T22:02:00.019Z

Welcome to the very first edition of the Retrosonic Podcast. Steve from the Retro Man Blog and Adam from The Jetsonics are joined in the Pod by Rock Photographer Paul Slattery. Throughout the series we will play and discuss some hidden gems and rare nuggets from Punk Rock, New Wave, Power Pop, Soul, Psychedelia, Mod, Garage Rock, Ska and Reggae from house-hold names to new and unsigned bands.

We'll also be broadcasting a "Bonus Track" where we will be inviting in various Special Guests from the world of music - including Musicians, Bloggers, Photographers and Artists, to discuss their work and their influences.

Retrosonic Podcast Episode 1: "We look like stars but we can't pay the rent" by Retrosonic Podcast

We have also set up a little Message Board/Forum called RetroBoard where you can register to comment on anything featured on the Retro Man Blog and RetroSonic Podcast. Discuss your thoughts and experiences about the music we play, we'd love to hear what you think.

There's a Facebook page too if you prefer to keep up to date there, or you can visit the Soundcloud page. The Podcast can be downloaded an MP3.

Song of The Day: The Black Keys "Lonely Boy"

2012-01-30T20:28:00.000Z

Here's the great video for the superb new single "Lonely Boy" from The Black Keys brand new album El Camino, which is out now on Nonesuch records.

It defies you not to dance...!!

Retrosonic Podcast: Episode One - Coming soon...!

2012-01-26T17:31:00.006Z

I'm pleased to announce new for 2012, the RetroSonic Podcast, which we will hopefully be turning into a monthly release. The first episode is currently in "post-production", whatever that means...and will be released very soon. I'll be joined in the Pod by Adam from The Jetsonics and we will be playing and chatting about a selection of hidden gems from the worlds of Punk Rock, New Wave, Soul, Power Pop, Psychedelia and Garage Rock. Expect album tracks, new and unsigned bands, hidden gems and classic songs. We'll also be discussing some of the Bands and Events featured in the Retro Man Blog, and there will be news and hopefully some Special Guests along the way...

Our first special feature will be part one of our interview with legendary Rock Photographer Paul Slattery who has captured many classic bands such as The Clash, Motorhead, Ramones, The Fall and Joy Division. He has also been there at the beginning with acts such as The Smiths, U2, The Stone Roses and Oasis. In this Episode Paul will be discussing his own "Early Years" and playing some choice cuts from the music that inspired him to take up Rock Photography, such as The Pirates, Dr. Feelgood and Link Wray.

"The Smiths: The Early Years" Photographs by Paul Slattery available from Amazon or any good bookstore

Many thanks to the following for testing the Pilot Episode and supplying us with valuable feedback, and more importantly encouragement to do more of the broadcasts! We really appreciate it.

Hasse - Selander Art (Sweden), Wayne - Ice Cream Man Blog (Sweden), Kurt - The Big Nothing (Tokyo), Francis B-W (U.K.), Mike A (New York), Susan - Jim Morrison's Paris web-site (Paris), Steve - Angels In Exile Records (U.K.), Phil - Stuff & Nonsense Blog (U.K.), Carolyn - A Drake's Progress Blog (U.K.), Push - Author and Pushblog (U.K.), Del - The Godfathers (U.K.), Steve - The Len Price 3 (U.K.), Geoff - Kast Off Kinks web-site (U.K.), Roger - Tenek (U.K.), Ola - Fula Fula Ord Blog (Sweden), Jim E (U.K.)

The Pilot Episode featured us discussing a selection of 12 songs that included The Rezillos, The Past Tense, Shonen Knife, The Len Price 3, The Ruts, The Soundtrack of Our Lives and Radio Birdman amongst others.

The Pilot was very a work in progress, but if you would like a copy then please email us and we will send you an MP3 version. It's worth it for the great music alone! We have also set up a little Message Board/Forum called RetroBoard where you can register to comment on anything featured on the Retro Man Blog and RetroSonic Podcast.

The Godfathers confirm The Len Price 3 for Saint Valentine's Day Massacre February 14th Islington Academy

2012-01-22T23:50:00.003Z

Great news..! The Godfathers have confirmed The Len Price 3 as support at their Saint Valentine's Day Massacre show at the Islington Academy gig on February 14th. They will be joining Punk Rock riffers The Lone Sharks in what is shaping up to be one of the not-to-be-missed gigs of 2012.

If you love raw Rock 'n' Roll, Garage Rock and Power Pop harmonies then this is a dream line-up.

Be sure to get your tickets HERE quickly as this is a sure fire sell out show!

The Len Price 3 in action - Photo by Steve Worrall

Dot Dash - Washington D.C. Post-Punk featuring ex-Swervedriver drummer

2012-01-22T20:08:00.000Z

Dot Dash is a post-punk-pop band from Washington D.C.They cite their influences as The Jam, Joy Division or The Byrds…or perhaps appreciation for the ancient sounds of the Postcard, Whaam and early Creation labels…

Guitarist/singer Terry Banks and bassist Hunter Bennett were in punky power poppers Julie Ocean. Before that, Terry was in a bunch of jangly guitar bands, including The Saturday People, Tree Fort Angst, Glo-Worm and St. Christopher.

Guitarist Bill Crandall was in the mod/pop band Modest Proposal. Drummer Danny Ingram began musical life in Dischord-label punks Youth Brigade before moving on to Strange Boutique and later, U.K. guitar-wranglers Swervedriver.

Dot Dash plays shows, mostly around D.C. In the recent past they’ve opened for Urge Overkill, The Godfathers, The Trash Can Sinatras, The Chameleons and Hugh Cornwell from The Stranglers.

"spark>flame>ember>ash" is released by Canadian indie label The Beautiful Music.

There is something lurking underneath the songs on this album, something you feel is ready to burst out and go wild. Yet at the moment the tracks are all very taut and controlled, there's a minimalist almost oppressive feel to them. This works extremely well on some numbers but over 14 tracks it just feels that the lack of variety doesn't quite translate to an album's worth of material. If I'd heard this as a 4 track E.P. or say, 6 track Mini-album, I might have been blown away.

Dot Dash - Photo by Peter Muise

Singer Terry Banks has a voice that reminds me sometimes of Robert Smith and yet on "There And Back Again Lane" it's Richard Butler from the Psychedelic Furs but hang on, now it's Robert Forster with "That Was Now This Is Then", a track which could be from The Go-Betweens "Friends of Rachel Worth" album. Maybe it's this lack of a distinct character that doesn't quite lift the weaker material such as "No Reverie" and "A Straight Line", maybe it just needs some stronger backing vocals and harmonies, I'm not sure.

Having said that, I'm featuring Dot Dash because there are some great moments that show the band are capable of writing some really memorable tunes particularly on "Learn How To Fly", which has a chorus that comes close to their 'band-name-influence' Wire's "Map Ref 41N 93W" or "Outdoor Miner". More songwriting of this quality could certainly elevate the band to another level. Then there's the rumbling bassline and discordant guitar lines of "Dissolve" which reflect a paranoid Pixies-like little gem.

"Tragedy/Destiny" and "I'm Going Home" have a warmer more melodic feel and have huge potential, but are both crying out for more prominent backing vocals to lift them to immediate, catchy hits.

Certainly a band I will be keeping an eye-out for though and I'd love to get the opportunity to see them live, to see how well those hidden little gems burst out!

For more information on Dot Dash please check out the band's Facebook page. The album can be bought directly from The Beautiful Music, Amazon or iTunes.

Blank Generation: Original Punk Posters Exhibition January 27th - March 08th at 198 Contemporary Arts Gallery London

2012-01-19T23:48:00.004Z

Blank Generation: A Collection of Original Punk Posters Exhibition 27^th January – 8^th March
198 Contemporary Arts Gallery, 198 Railton Road, London SE24 0JT Mon-Fri 11am-5pm

As an adolescent Gary Loveridge – music poster collector and punk historian - stole a Damned poster from the local record shop's sound proof listening booth. Then going to gigs in Bristol he would take down the record company display advertising the band's latest releases. On the way home Loveridge would rip down the fly posters and anything else he could get his hands on. This began a growing fragmented punk collage over his teenage bedroom wall, thus beginning Loveridge’s collection of music posters.

Gary with Spizz at Gaye Advert's Punk & Beyond Exhibition - Photo by Steve Worrall

Moving to London in 1987 Loveridge discovered Bermondsey Antique Market, Portobello and Camden, providing him with a good hunting ground for expanding his collection of posters and other memorabilia. The collection has changed over time as music trends have changed with Loveridge collecting Britpop in the 90’s and bands such as the Libertines more recently. Numbering well over 100, some have been lost, destroyed, or sold, but despite this the collection remains a vibrant and authoritative representation of an important era in British popular music history.

The Blank Generation exhibition at 198 Contemporary Arts & Learning presents a number of posters from Loveridge’s collection of music memorabilla. Alongside the exhibition there will be a series of events reflecting on 30 years of music and its associated art. The exhibition and events will consider an on-going punk movement and the relevance of punk in today’s creative and political climate. Blank Generation is also the inspiration for 198 and Central St Martins latest Creative Learning project. The group of young people from St Francis Xavier Sixth Form College in Clapham will be creating a new range of t-shirts influenced by the posters and the punk essence of youth, survival and the DIY aesthetic. The t-shirts will be showcased and available to buy from Hustlebucks, 198@45, 5^th Avenue, Brixton Village from Feb 23rd.

Good luck to Gary with the exhibition, I'll be sure to visit and post a report.

Punk Rock Cartoons by David Worth

2012-01-09T17:37:00.010Z

Adam Ant - by David Worth

David Worth is from Blackpool. He started drawing caricature cartoons in April 2010 and is self-taught. He has no art school background and his day job isn’t in design or illustration. The first cartoons he drew were of Public Image Limited and these were published on johnlydon.com and also on pilofficial.com.

This encouraged David to draw more cartoons and develop his own unique style. Since then, David has drawn hundreds of cartoons of musicians, bands, movie subjects and TV personalities. He is quickly working his way through people and bands from the world of Punk, Alternative and metal. These include The Clash, Ramones, Sex Pistols, Motorhead, Henry Rollins, Beastie Boys, etc. He has also created cartoons of more mainstream musicians such as Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera, Fleetwood Mac and others. There is also a set of Hollywood Film Legends in progress.

The Stranglers 1977 - by David Worth

The cartoons can be seen at his website, Punk Rock Toons and also on Facebook. They have raised a lot of interest on Facebook and some great feedback has been received from Killing Joke, Mike Joyce of The Smiths and Glen Matlock of the Sex Pistols. Glen even uses a cartoon of himself as his profile picture.

Ramones outside CBGBs - by David Worth

Exhibitions

David has shown his work at various exhibitions in the UK, including the Rebellion Punk Festival in his home town of Blackpool, which plays host to hundreds of punk bands and thousands of fans from all over the world every August. A cartoon of famous musicians born, raised or based in the local area has been displayed at the Blackpool Art Fair.

Captain Sensible

He has also recently exhibited in Manchester and the sale of the prints from the various artists raised lots of money for a charity for children living in poverty in the city. He will also be displaying his artwork at the Punk Rock Museum at Ghettogloss Gallery in Downtown Los Angeles from 14th January 2012.

A cartoon of the Country Life Butter Advert was published in John Lydon's recent limited edtion book, “Mr. Rotten’s Scrapbook” and was the only cartoon featured in the book not drawn by John himself. It was given a full page, accompanied by John’s scribblings above and below the picture. The cartoons have also been published in Digital Arts and Front magazines and various newspapers.

More of David's cartoons can be seen on the following sites:

Dave Vanian

Punk Rock Toons

Facebook/Punk Rock Cartoons

John Lydon.com

- Under 26th July 2010 heading

Public Image Ltd Official

- Find in show reports

John Lydon's "Mr. Rotten's Scrapbook"

- Country Life Cartoon used on Page 180

David would like to thank John ‘Rambo’ Stevens, John Lydon and Scotty Murphy, for initially publishing the cartoons and also to Taquila Mockingbird for giving David the opportunity to exhibit them in the U.S.A.

Thanks to David for permission to use some examples of his excellent artwork, I'd like to wish him good luck with the Exhibition in Los Angeles and will certainly keep an eye out for future news and update here accordingly. In the meantime, please enjoy some more great Punk Rock Cartoons...

The Clash on Tom Snyder's Tomorrow Show 1981

Lemmy

The Damned - Black Album era

Don Letts and Mick Jones of Big Audio Dynamite

Charlie Harper with his Punk Rock Cartoon

John Lydon liked his cartoon so much he used one in his special limited edition book "Mr. Rotten's Scrapbook"

All cartoons and photographs Copyright David Worth

New Untouchables Presents - Timebox: Back 2 The Future on Saturday January 28th at The Strongroom London EC2A

2012-01-09T17:03:00.002Z

New Untouchables Presents: TIMEBOX (Back 2 The Future) Sat 28 January 8pm-2am / free

@ the Strongroom, 120-124 Curtain Road, London. EC2A 3SQ

DJ's Dr Robert + guests Wayne Gibbins (Yum Yum) & Brother Jonno spin sublime psych/soul/funk/rock/garage & r'n'b blasts down the groovy cellar club!Arrive early!

Transport Tubes Liverpool Street/Shoreditch

Venue contact Tel: 020 7426 5103

The Machines - New album from 1977 Roxy and The Vortex Punk Rock veterans

2012-01-08T17:11:00.000Z

The Machines, Southend's first Punk band, were formed in 1977 by Nick Paul, and are known for their infamous "True Life" E.P. (Wax Records 1978). This record is now listed in Record Collectors 100 Most Collectible Punk records and with it, they reached the upper reaches of the Alternative Charts, with the late John Peel playing the title song many times on his late night show. The band burned brightly for a relatively short time between 1977-78, and together with the aforementioned E.P. they also managed to play the twin Meccas of London Punk - the Roxy and The Vortex. Fast forward to 2006 and the band regenerated with Nick Paul joined by Steve Reddihough on Bass and Backing Vocals and Steve Pegrum (aka Steve Machine) on Drums. The two Steves lay a driving, solid rhythm to which Nick adds his infamous crazed Guitar playing. In 2006 the band played a special show at The Boston Arms celebrating the release of a compilation CD featuring two rare Machines tracks from 1977.

The band have played solidly around the U.K. since re-forming and in 2008 they played the Rebellion Festival in Blackpool, as well as The Brighton Fringe Festival. They have also managed to record new songs such as "Girl In Black" (dedicated to Johnny Thunders) and "Weekend", as well as recording lost '77 classics such as "Parents Zone" and "Don't Be Fooled". This debut CD by The Machines, and the first release on new label Angels In Exile, collects all the recordings the band have made, including the 10 songs that they have recently recorded with Barry Gardner. Also included are the two rare 1977 demos "Racing" and "You Better Hear" as well as all the tracks from the "True Life" E.P. which receives its first official release here since 1978.

The Machines - Photo by Giacomino Parkinson

For further information please check The Machines official site, Angels In Exile Record Label or email: angelsinexile@gmail.com

It's a great album of uptempo, catchy Punk Rock 'n' Roll, no frills but lots of thrills with a sound that resembles Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers New Yorks Punk meeting The Clash's first album head on. The new recordings, such as the brilliant "Cyclone" and "Girl In Black", stack up well against the remarkably fresh sounding tracks of 1977 and '78.

Here's the track "Weekend" from The Machines

The Machines in 1977

Angels In Exile are also responsible for the superb web-site Southend Punk Rock History 1976-1986, which is an excellent local resource featuring loads of bands, fanzines and photos of the period. From local heroes such as Dr. Feelgood, Kursaal Flyers and Eddie & The Hot Rods to later post-punk bands such as Anorexic Dread and The Prey, you'll find a comprehensive archive on the site.

The Selecter live at The Cherry Red Records Stadium Kingston January 28th

2012-01-07T17:12:00.000Z

The Selecter, one of the original 2-Tone Ska revival bands and responsible for such classics as "On My Radio" and "Three Minute Hero", will play at The Cherry Red Records Stadium, Kingston in Surrey on January 28th. The band are enjoying a bit more of the spotlight again recently following the well received publication of singer Pauline Black's autobiography "Black By Design: A 2-Tone Memoir".

The Selecter will then head out on tour in March to promote the excellent new album "Made In Britain", they kick off in Reading on March 01st at the Sub 89 Club. A full list of dates can be found at the band's web-site.

The Complaints Department - "Walking Hand In Hand" Tokyo Power Pop for Earthquake and Tsunami Relief

2012-01-07T12:41:00.000Z

Tokyo based Power Pop band, The Complaints Department, have just released a new single "Walking Hand In Hand". Proceeds from sales of the single will be donated to help aid the reconstruction work in Tohoku, Northern Japan, following the devastating Tsunami. Of course, just because the tragedy of the Tsunami is now out of the news, there is still so much work to be done in rebuilding, not only the region, but people's lives and livliehoods too. The band have to be applauded for their efforts in doing something positive.

The Complaints Department is a 5-piece power-pop band, with an eclectic fusion of punk, pop, rock and anything that comes to mind. The Complaints Department came together in February 2009, and is a Tokyo-based band made up of Canadian and Japanese nationals. Each member comes with different musical interests and influences, producing a unique style of alternative music. The band often uses two vocal parts to produce a more powerful and unique vocal sound. Furious song-writing/re-writing and relentless behind-the-scenes plans are a part of TCD life. Forging ahead, the band filled in the missing lead guitar and bass sounds, and added keyboards. The Complaints Department performs live with other Tokyo-based bands, steadily building a local following. TCD concentrates on writing songs in English and Japanese to appeal to it's entire audience.

"Walking Hand In Hand" can be bought from Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby, here's the video:

Composer: Nate Gildart

Arrangementby : The Complaints Department (Nate Gildart, Ken Kishi, Akira Minakawa, Chris Lucier and Matt Rollo)

Cover Art: Stefanie Held

Mixed and Mastered by Ryo Sugawara & Ken Kishi

Here's another video of a great slice of Power Pop, recorded live in Tokyo, "The Story Of The Year".

Monica and The Explosion - A Swedish singer and a U.K. Sub!

2011-12-30T22:46:00.001Z

Monica and The Explosion - Photo by Ken Sharp

Monica and The Explosion is a two-piece band consisting of Monica Welander, a Swedish punk rock singer-songwriter and bassist Paul Slack (original member of the U.K. Subs and The Flying Padovanis). In July 2010 Monica released her second album “SHUT UP!" on Hands Up Music, recorded at Jigsaw Studios and featuring Paul on bass and Rob Bayliss on drums. They have toured in Europe, Ireland, Sweden and Australia as well as gigging extensively around the U.K. Having toured around the world as a solo artist for a couple of years, Monica finds the two-piece line-up retains the original concept of the songs whilst adding a new layer of complexity to the over-all sound which is best described as ”Jukebox Punk".

Although primarily a two-piece they can sometimes be seen performing with drummer JP Morer, but whatever the line-up the songs are always delivered with a heartfelt passion that has won them fans wherever they’ve played. Monica and The Explosion started in 2005 when Monica left her old band "Lots of Pilots" to focus on writing and performing solo. Her music was described as punky rock with a lot of energy. The debut album "Monica and The Explosion" was released in 2007 on her own label, backed by Peppe Risenberg on drums and David Persson on bass. The three of them played together in Sweden for a while before Monica went touring on her own. The unusual girl playing energetic punk rock on her acoustic guitar awoke interest all around the world. In 2008-2010 she went on solo tours around Europe, India, Australia, New Zealand, and The U.S. Two music videos were released from the debut album: "Hollywood" and "Friday Night", both produced by Daniel Larsson.

Jane Connolly in SO Tunbridge Wells

"Female singers seem to be taking over the world right now, but if you want a break from the power ballads and quirky pop tracks, do not miss this feisty local musician. Strongly flavoured with classic British punk, Monica Welander - a Swede now based in Tunbridge Wells - is not so much a breath of fresh air, as a force-10 gale of honest, funny lyrics and insanely catchy tunes. She doesn't mince her words, with tracks like "Intoxicated" summing up a Saturday night romance in blunt and witty style, while the opener "Take it Or Leave Me" has toes tapping from the very first bar."

Michael Bednar in Big Cheese Review

"Sassy Swede + Paul Slack + Acoustic Punk = Jolly good time.

Acoustic punk? From Sweden? With the bassist of punk rock legends U.K. Subs? It may sound like a gimmick, but one listen to the album and any of those notions are soon dispelled.

Monica Welander is the front-woman of this three-piece band, and she’s got enough sass to pull the album together. Songs like “Take It Or Leave Me” and “Shut Up” are fiery musings with a little bit of Joan Jett attitude thrown in. The album might be a little rough at the edges but that only adds to it’s charm. Let it explode out of your stereo and enjoy!"

Paul Slack also writes a really great Tour Blog which is hosted on the superb U.K. Subs Time and Matter web-site. The Blog is a life-on-the-road tour diary that also doubles as a very interesting travelogue. Paul shares his photos, thoughts and comments on the various venues, bands and characters that they encounter along the way. However, what really appeals to me is the great insight Paul gives to the many Towns and Cities that the band travel through, places that are often totally overlooked in the average "coach-gig-backstage" tour diary. Paul really wants to discover more about the local history and culture as they tour - Nantes, Mont St. Michel, Hamburg, Amsterdam, all are brought to life with some great photos and descriptions.

Monica and The Explosion have two confirmed dates already for 2012 in January at The Iron Duke in Brighton on the 21st and The Castle in Sheerness, Kent on the 28th. However I would recommend you keep a regular check on their Gig Listing page, as this number is likely to grow quite a lot - in 2011 they played around 100 gigs from the U.K. and Ireland, France, Holland, Germany and Sweden and all the way to Australia!

Photos courtesy of Paul Slack