Greetings chaps!
Forgive the pop culture reference title. Ive been "hanging" with nerds, and it's wearing off.
The more I learn the various memes and Internet videos, the more I understand and join in with my chums nerdish games.
But unfortunately the more i understand.The less I make sense to my lovely future wife.
Speaking of wifery*, I have decided to mark the countdown to next June's festivities with a terror threat style warning system:
Bride condition:
Black (Everything is shit!! We can't afford it!)
Groom condition:
Blueish green: (maybe the reception should have a bouncy castle for the adults)
Over the past week myself and a Mr Jack "Mr Darcy" Searle, have been Jamming out some ideas as a Folk/Chap-hop group (think the Dubliners mixed with Mr B)
Possible genre names:
Chalk-hop
Cholk-hop
Folk-hop
Fap-hop
It was exciting stuff as it is genuinely something new. (When we get some stuff recorded I shall post links).
This could end up as just a bit of fun,but I do believe we have something giggable. Either way watch this space crackers!
Gig reports:
Rma: met up with some old chums, josie, Dan, Brad and Dave Gentle, who I haven't seen in literally close to a decade. Who was a jolly good laugh, (just as I remember) and many congrats on him qualifying as a Nurse. Looking forward to our next meeting.
Bumping into the Bennett brothers was a pleasure. Got drunk and caught up with Dan, then got very Drunk with Brad and reminisced.
I had completely forgotten how much joy it brings me watching Brad's appearance scare the shit out of people who don't know him.
Imagine watching a giant moustachioed Skinhead, boisterously introducing himself to a Dickensian looking student with the defence capabilities of a brandy snap.
Then imagine that the Dickensian brandy snap has the look of a man who has seen his own rape filled death on his face.
Brad is of course a gentleman, and one of my dearest old friends. But seeing him unintentionally bringing brown trousers to the middle class, brings joy to my heart.
The gig itself was a bitt naff, as usual Nick Courtney chewed up the sound of my banjo then turned it to a nearly inaudible volume. But it went well do I can't complain to much.
One thing that sticks in my mind is the last act who were a full prog band that included a nest of keyboards. Being played one hand per keyboard.
At the time (as I was as pissed as an Lord) I thought it was awesome.
I was reliably informed that my opinion may have been influenced by the amount of cider I had consumed.
Drift bar last Sunday was a good laugh, my only complaint was having to wait for an hour for a drunk guy (i can only assume) playing covers (questionably) before me. When everyone else had a half hour set.
It was a nice mix of Music and the promotor was not only present (yeah I know freaky) but was a thoroughly nice chap. The set up was good and I look forward to playing there I'm the future and working with those chaps in the future.
Side note if you want to add excitement to a gig, Just add a drunk raving Scotsman to the front row. I couldn't understand him but altleast it was possitive Celtic rambling.
Finally a big shout out to friends old and new at Inferno in Bournmouth.
As usual a lovely gig with reassuringly growing support. Unfortunately I missed brothers Grimmer AGAIN! But I had to head home as my betrothed had work in the morning and she was driving.
Harpin in played like tasty blues bitches. This has caused excitement for a future blues showcase I'm organising with them. Stay tuned!!
Ta ta chaps
"Chunks"
Harpin' on, great blues band from inferno, soon to be featuring as part of a blues showcase at the inferno Febuary 25th.
http://www.harpin-on.co.uk/
The silhouettes, my chum Brads Band:
http://www.myspace.com/thesilhouettesuk
*no it's not a word but I like it! It's like midwifery with out nurses or screaming sprogs!
Sunday, 18 December 2011
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Silver Haired Leviathan!
Greetings Chaps!
Again it's late and again I'm blaming it on Hitler!
So on Weds the 30th I played my first Bemis Gig. I shat the proverbial brick as it was a month earlier than we had originally planned.
Oh well, Into the Breach Dear Friends!
So anyway the gig itself was a night of firsts for me as a performer:
First use of a Green room.
First time having bandmates and not being Billy no mates in the corner, waiting for my friends to arrive.
First night of a promoter buying all my drinks! (this was a first most dear to my heart)
First night to sign an album (that i might add had nothing to do with, but fuck it! one is an attention slut)
First night to perform where someone else has to worry about all of the attention and the Lyrics.
Being a bassist or any other ist for that matter is much more relaxing than being a soloist*. It ws nice to just get on with the gig and just have fun. Let Gareth do all the hard work ill just sit back and relax. (and pull faces).
Despite new band jitters and playing like a numpty (hey I'm new) it was a cracking little gig to play, we got into a nice groove and (despite my spaz like memory) we gelled really well. The Highlight of the gig was having Dave Pegg and PJ Wright come up and join us on the Bands's# "The Wieght".
Dave Pegg and PJ Wright (who were the headliners) were like silver haired leviathans who crushed all in their way! Ie: Played fantastic folky Gems, a few Fairport Convention and some Jethro Tull numbers. We were also regaled with some nuggets of story telling gold from Tours Past and we were also informed that Ian Anderson is a Tight-fisted twat! (Being an empirical person I shall have to meet him and try borrowing money off of him. Don't worry I shall keep you informed of my investigations.)
Getting drunk, playing folk music,watching folk music, Chatting With Folk Playing Legends, Signing stuff, posing for photos and Drinking more. A good table of contents for a thoroughly good evening.
may there be many more like it!
Ta ta
'Chunks
PJ and Peggy:
http://folking.wordpress.com/2011/11/16/a-night-off-with-pj-peggy-%E2%80%93-uk-tour/
Bemis:
http://www.bemisland.com/
*Not that being a solo doesn't have its bonuses... not having to worry about paying for laxatives for one.
# for my younger readers The Band are and actual Band.But the idea of a band to be called The Band is very confusing. for example when discussing a band like The Band, The phrase The Band may be in reference to another Band besides The The Band, to avoid confusing The Band With another Band I would suggest using the name of the Band and not the Band,unless The Name of the Band does itself become a Band Name but that could be shortened to TNOTB, a problem with this of course is if it is read quickly that could be mistaken for KNOB(a finnish punk band).
The Band are in fact a very good Band and some would say the the Band are a definitive example of a Band hence the name; The Band.
Some would also say this joke is cheap and it has gone on to long so i shall stop it now
Again it's late and again I'm blaming it on Hitler!
So on Weds the 30th I played my first Bemis Gig. I shat the proverbial brick as it was a month earlier than we had originally planned.
Oh well, Into the Breach Dear Friends!
So anyway the gig itself was a night of firsts for me as a performer:
First use of a Green room.
First time having bandmates and not being Billy no mates in the corner, waiting for my friends to arrive.
First night of a promoter buying all my drinks! (this was a first most dear to my heart)
First night to sign an album (that i might add had nothing to do with, but fuck it! one is an attention slut)
First night to perform where someone else has to worry about all of the attention and the Lyrics.
Being a bassist or any other ist for that matter is much more relaxing than being a soloist*. It ws nice to just get on with the gig and just have fun. Let Gareth do all the hard work ill just sit back and relax. (and pull faces).
Despite new band jitters and playing like a numpty (hey I'm new) it was a cracking little gig to play, we got into a nice groove and (despite my spaz like memory) we gelled really well. The Highlight of the gig was having Dave Pegg and PJ Wright come up and join us on the Bands's# "The Wieght".
Dave Pegg and PJ Wright (who were the headliners) were like silver haired leviathans who crushed all in their way! Ie: Played fantastic folky Gems, a few Fairport Convention and some Jethro Tull numbers. We were also regaled with some nuggets of story telling gold from Tours Past and we were also informed that Ian Anderson is a Tight-fisted twat! (Being an empirical person I shall have to meet him and try borrowing money off of him. Don't worry I shall keep you informed of my investigations.)
Getting drunk, playing folk music,watching folk music, Chatting With Folk Playing Legends, Signing stuff, posing for photos and Drinking more. A good table of contents for a thoroughly good evening.
may there be many more like it!
Ta ta
'Chunks
PJ and Peggy:
http://folking.wordpress.com/2011/11/16/a-night-off-with-pj-peggy-%E2%80%93-uk-tour/
Bemis:
http://www.bemisland.com/
*Not that being a solo doesn't have its bonuses... not having to worry about paying for laxatives for one.
# for my younger readers The Band are and actual Band.But the idea of a band to be called The Band is very confusing. for example when discussing a band like The Band, The phrase The Band may be in reference to another Band besides The The Band, to avoid confusing The Band With another Band I would suggest using the name of the Band and not the Band,unless The Name of the Band does itself become a Band Name but that could be shortened to TNOTB, a problem with this of course is if it is read quickly that could be mistaken for KNOB(a finnish punk band).
The Band are in fact a very good Band and some would say the the Band are a definitive example of a Band hence the name; The Band.
Some would also say this joke is cheap and it has gone on to long so i shall stop it now
Monday, 28 November 2011
Better late than never
Greetings chaps,
It's been a while since my last update, and a bit of a wait from my last gig report. This is due to laziness and.....Hitler.
I Shall redeem myself!
First , let us step inside my time machine and back to the 18th of november. The SOFA CITY charity event "Why don't you turn of your TV and do something less boring instead?" or WDY? For short.
First of all what is SOFA CITY you ask? well this is: http://www.sofacity.moonfruit.com
A collective of musicians brought together by a drunken idea of equality.
With a simple idea/manifesto:
1:Share Responsibility.
All bands playing help organise the venue, promotion and equipment for the gig.
2:Keep it simple.
Don't overload the bill with loads of bands.
3:Take it in turn to open and Headline
4:Share the bounty equally.
All gate money gets split with the bands after costs.
5:Stick around to see the other bands.
or
"Thou shalt not leave after playing your shitty little poem or song you self-righteous prick"
Ironically with the charity event, I forgot to promote it, there was at least 7 bands on, we got no money ;) radioactive bones have headlined before, also I left before the last act came on because I had work the next morning, at half past arse.
Oh well,rules are made to be broken.
But in truth it's a great philosophy for local gigs. I plan to set up a few Soton Gigs in the SOFA spirit in the future. Maybe we should get a seal of approval for gigs like the free range eggs badge.
The gig itself was great fun. To watch and play despite epic lyric fail while playing the theme tune to the *Wombles. And on the hour long walk home I made 8 quid busking. I say busking , I was idly playing banjo and people gave me money.
If only there was a way to that on a greater scale so I can pay the rent.
In regards to my gig at the Portman on Sunday (the 26th), it was a cracking little gig. Big thanks to Tom "Afro Nimja" Somerfield for getting the gig and being a solid chap as always.
Of course thanks to Lils, Jack,Sam and Gina for popping along.
Really pleased with the set, whipped out Wild rover and Maggie Malone to get the chatterboxes at the bar to turn round and sing along. Started the set to the roar of idle conversation ended it to the roar of Drink up!
... Then I went out and got very drunk at Chaplins Bar.
All in all a Grand day out.
Next gig is In Portsmouth on the 8th of December at the RMA tavern in Eastney.
Don't for get your towel!
(ten points if you get the reference)
Ta ta chaps!
Chunks,
P.s I'm going to start putting next years Bemis dates up on www.sweetchunks.co.uk also keep an eye out for The Chunks and Chums house party tour 2012.
Also keep a nose open for new Chunks gigs in the new year.
Oh yes and the eventual E.P
*I had a moment of joy when auto correct tried to change Wombles to Wimbledon...
It's been a while since my last update, and a bit of a wait from my last gig report. This is due to laziness and.....Hitler.
I Shall redeem myself!
First , let us step inside my time machine and back to the 18th of november. The SOFA CITY charity event "Why don't you turn of your TV and do something less boring instead?" or WDY? For short.
First of all what is SOFA CITY you ask? well this is: http://www.sofacity.moonfruit.com
A collective of musicians brought together by a drunken idea of equality.
With a simple idea/manifesto:
1:Share Responsibility.
All bands playing help organise the venue, promotion and equipment for the gig.
2:Keep it simple.
Don't overload the bill with loads of bands.
3:Take it in turn to open and Headline
4:Share the bounty equally.
All gate money gets split with the bands after costs.
5:Stick around to see the other bands.
or
"Thou shalt not leave after playing your shitty little poem or song you self-righteous prick"
Ironically with the charity event, I forgot to promote it, there was at least 7 bands on, we got no money ;) radioactive bones have headlined before, also I left before the last act came on because I had work the next morning, at half past arse.
Oh well,rules are made to be broken.
But in truth it's a great philosophy for local gigs. I plan to set up a few Soton Gigs in the SOFA spirit in the future. Maybe we should get a seal of approval for gigs like the free range eggs badge.
The gig itself was great fun. To watch and play despite epic lyric fail while playing the theme tune to the *Wombles. And on the hour long walk home I made 8 quid busking. I say busking , I was idly playing banjo and people gave me money.
If only there was a way to that on a greater scale so I can pay the rent.
In regards to my gig at the Portman on Sunday (the 26th), it was a cracking little gig. Big thanks to Tom "Afro Nimja" Somerfield for getting the gig and being a solid chap as always.
Of course thanks to Lils, Jack,Sam and Gina for popping along.
Really pleased with the set, whipped out Wild rover and Maggie Malone to get the chatterboxes at the bar to turn round and sing along. Started the set to the roar of idle conversation ended it to the roar of Drink up!
... Then I went out and got very drunk at Chaplins Bar.
All in all a Grand day out.
Next gig is In Portsmouth on the 8th of December at the RMA tavern in Eastney.
Don't for get your towel!
(ten points if you get the reference)
Ta ta chaps!
Chunks,
P.s I'm going to start putting next years Bemis dates up on www.sweetchunks.co.uk also keep an eye out for The Chunks and Chums house party tour 2012.
Also keep a nose open for new Chunks gigs in the new year.
Oh yes and the eventual E.P
*I had a moment of joy when auto correct tried to change Wombles to Wimbledon...
Thursday, 10 November 2011
Down in the winch at midnight
Wednesday:
Good evening Chaps.
Against all my better judgement i shall attempt this drunk.
Please forgive any and all spelling/grammatical errors.
I am writing this in the company of the reverend B-radshaw. In his kitchen, on his laptop getting scared of windows 7. But fear not I have real ale and tea...
This was as far as my blogging got on Wednesday, then I succumbed to the effects of Rev B-Rads music collection, tea and late night chicken.
Bare in mind those 6 lines, (as monumental as they may be) took 2 whole hours to write. so i decided to write a few notes and attempt it when i was in a more eloquent state.
Thursday:
Onto the gig!
I arrived in Winchester and rushed to the sound check, only to find (as usual) that the other bands were running late and I (despite being on time) would have to hang around and rush my sound check.
With out meaning to (but sounding incredibly) prissy, it is becoming a peeve. That and Headline acts fucking off during the support slots.
The thing that annoys me about this is that you have to go out of your way to do it. You come all this way ( the headliners were fom Leeds) and instead of just relaxing, listening to some new music, you go out of your way to avoid it. Then have the gall to talk all humble on stage. and in some cases "thank" the other acts.
This isn't a rant at any particular band, although Ellen And The Escapades did fuck off throughout all the support acts. its more a frustration at the current scene, especially "indie" bands. While we're expected to bask in the eternal fucking glory of their "fresh, indie sound" They are too busy, in another pub, enjoying Colon-cushioned head comfort when the rest of us are performing.
The Getaways played after me. less said the better really. Shit indie band that couldnt be arsed or as i have renamed them Sibtcba
The audience weren't upfor it (promotor cock up) so they didnt put any effort in at all.
Matt Isaacs was a sublime guitarist. Very much up my street. switching between acoustic and a resonator. he played a nice mix of folk and slide blues. (once i get the links sorted ill post it up)
A really nice chap too, we spent a good chunk of time chatting about John Martin. and session guitaring. i hope to catch him again soon.
Also he watched all of the bands play too...
Ellen and the Escapades despite the above mentioned problems, were very very good. Reminded me of Laura Marling but heavier. im expecting to see more of those chaps in the music press..
One strange and very annoying thing that kept happening was a couple of old farts kept saying shh during the Ellen set.
Two things annoyed me:
1 The sad old farts saying Shh were talking through the other sets, so this immediately made me want to strike up a drunken and boisterously loud conversation with who ever was causing the shh'ing.
2 Its a live venue not a fucking library! she's amplified so people can hear the musician if there is background noise like talking, or if some old twat is saying Shh.
The silly old codger was probably the dad or something anyways...
After the Gig I Took up the good reverends offer of his floor space and Debriefed at his Flat with some homebrew and The War of the Worlds soundtrack.
And an idea was formed about The First Sweetchunks Tour. A series of free house parties with me playing
hmm.. a tasty piece this could be. we shall have to see...
I shall keep you posted..
Ta Ta
'Chunks
Good evening Chaps.
Against all my better judgement i shall attempt this drunk.
Please forgive any and all spelling/grammatical errors.
I am writing this in the company of the reverend B-radshaw. In his kitchen, on his laptop getting scared of windows 7. But fear not I have real ale and tea...
This was as far as my blogging got on Wednesday, then I succumbed to the effects of Rev B-Rads music collection, tea and late night chicken.
Bare in mind those 6 lines, (as monumental as they may be) took 2 whole hours to write. so i decided to write a few notes and attempt it when i was in a more eloquent state.
Thursday:
Onto the gig!
I arrived in Winchester and rushed to the sound check, only to find (as usual) that the other bands were running late and I (despite being on time) would have to hang around and rush my sound check.
With out meaning to (but sounding incredibly) prissy, it is becoming a peeve. That and Headline acts fucking off during the support slots.
The thing that annoys me about this is that you have to go out of your way to do it. You come all this way ( the headliners were fom Leeds) and instead of just relaxing, listening to some new music, you go out of your way to avoid it. Then have the gall to talk all humble on stage. and in some cases "thank" the other acts.
This isn't a rant at any particular band, although Ellen And The Escapades did fuck off throughout all the support acts. its more a frustration at the current scene, especially "indie" bands. While we're expected to bask in the eternal fucking glory of their "fresh, indie sound" They are too busy, in another pub, enjoying Colon-cushioned head comfort when the rest of us are performing.
The Getaways played after me. less said the better really. Shit indie band that couldnt be arsed or as i have renamed them Sibtcba
The audience weren't upfor it (promotor cock up) so they didnt put any effort in at all.
Matt Isaacs was a sublime guitarist. Very much up my street. switching between acoustic and a resonator. he played a nice mix of folk and slide blues. (once i get the links sorted ill post it up)
A really nice chap too, we spent a good chunk of time chatting about John Martin. and session guitaring. i hope to catch him again soon.
Also he watched all of the bands play too...
Ellen and the Escapades despite the above mentioned problems, were very very good. Reminded me of Laura Marling but heavier. im expecting to see more of those chaps in the music press..
One strange and very annoying thing that kept happening was a couple of old farts kept saying shh during the Ellen set.
Two things annoyed me:
1 The sad old farts saying Shh were talking through the other sets, so this immediately made me want to strike up a drunken and boisterously loud conversation with who ever was causing the shh'ing.
2 Its a live venue not a fucking library! she's amplified so people can hear the musician if there is background noise like talking, or if some old twat is saying Shh.
The silly old codger was probably the dad or something anyways...
After the Gig I Took up the good reverends offer of his floor space and Debriefed at his Flat with some homebrew and The War of the Worlds soundtrack.
And an idea was formed about The First Sweetchunks Tour. A series of free house parties with me playing
hmm.. a tasty piece this could be. we shall have to see...
I shall keep you posted..
Ta Ta
'Chunks
Sunday, 6 November 2011
Play fighting,Tiny Birds and Jack Daniels
As I now have a long train journey with nothing to do other than look at the back of other passengers' heads, i may aswell blog the gig.
Despite Nevil's (our guard) best attempts to pass the time and his private details over the tannoy, I find myself looking back over the night.
At first I contemplated a blog about my distain for London, going on and on about the grey manotony of it all. But I realised that was shit so I shall instead summarise my feelings thusly:
London:
Love the tube, too big, full of cunts..
Now onto the gig..
Arrived on time and raring to go, as usual no other band had a arrived for sound check and the promotor was absent (again).
After chatting to the bar staff, I found out I would only be paid after I brought 10 people through the door. As my London fan base is limited to be optimistic, non existent to be accurate, the chance of me getting any money towards train fare was also limited to be optimistic, non existent to be accurate.
With not even a complementary drink to tide me over till the bourbon started calling, I got on with my sound check.
Met a young lad from a grunge band playing later that night (who's behaviour would see him close to having a smoke machine rammed up his arse),and a great bunch of chaps from the band Tiny Birds.(www.reverbnation.com/tinybirds
If you like Mumford and sons, you'll like this.)
They opened up the night and despite starting with an audience of 2 including me. They jolly well went for it as if it were Wembley. Hats fully off to them they played a cracking set and despite the promotors best attempts to keep the pub as empty as possible, they drew in a few people from the street.
Had a chat with the chaps and hopefully will be trying to get them down 'ampshire way in the new year.
My set went down nicely and got a rapturous sing along from drink up. Mainly thanks to Tiny Birds giving it the preverbal welly.
But... Do you remember the boy I mentioned who (barely) avoided being impregnated by a smoke machine... Anally.
Well the reason for my displeasure was during my 3rd tune (lufestre) he decided a good way to show appreciation was to wrestle his band mate in front of the stage. At first I thought it was a fight so I nearly stopped, but the silly pratt was just rolling around on the floor. So dispite having lost my flow a little bit I had to carry on.
After the gig he came to "apologise" but what affronted when I said that it was "taking the piss"
I'm sorry but drunkenly rolling around like a spaz isn't exactly going to get you fucking brownie points. It's a one way ticket to smoke machine rape station.
Strangely enough, no bugger hung around for his set, even the sound engineer came out for a natter half way through their first song.
I call that twat justice!
Oh well, all in all though I think I came out on top. Found a new band I like and want to follow, made some new chums and hopefully some new contacts.
London may be a bit shit but ive actually enjoyed gigging here, especially the travel. Did I mention I liked the tube? Shame it's full of cunts though!
Tattie bye
'Chunks
Despite Nevil's (our guard) best attempts to pass the time and his private details over the tannoy, I find myself looking back over the night.
At first I contemplated a blog about my distain for London, going on and on about the grey manotony of it all. But I realised that was shit so I shall instead summarise my feelings thusly:
London:
Love the tube, too big, full of cunts..
Now onto the gig..
Arrived on time and raring to go, as usual no other band had a arrived for sound check and the promotor was absent (again).
After chatting to the bar staff, I found out I would only be paid after I brought 10 people through the door. As my London fan base is limited to be optimistic, non existent to be accurate, the chance of me getting any money towards train fare was also limited to be optimistic, non existent to be accurate.
With not even a complementary drink to tide me over till the bourbon started calling, I got on with my sound check.
Met a young lad from a grunge band playing later that night (who's behaviour would see him close to having a smoke machine rammed up his arse),and a great bunch of chaps from the band Tiny Birds.(www.reverbnation.com/tinybirds
If you like Mumford and sons, you'll like this.)
They opened up the night and despite starting with an audience of 2 including me. They jolly well went for it as if it were Wembley. Hats fully off to them they played a cracking set and despite the promotors best attempts to keep the pub as empty as possible, they drew in a few people from the street.
Had a chat with the chaps and hopefully will be trying to get them down 'ampshire way in the new year.
My set went down nicely and got a rapturous sing along from drink up. Mainly thanks to Tiny Birds giving it the preverbal welly.
But... Do you remember the boy I mentioned who (barely) avoided being impregnated by a smoke machine... Anally.
Well the reason for my displeasure was during my 3rd tune (lufestre) he decided a good way to show appreciation was to wrestle his band mate in front of the stage. At first I thought it was a fight so I nearly stopped, but the silly pratt was just rolling around on the floor. So dispite having lost my flow a little bit I had to carry on.
After the gig he came to "apologise" but what affronted when I said that it was "taking the piss"
I'm sorry but drunkenly rolling around like a spaz isn't exactly going to get you fucking brownie points. It's a one way ticket to smoke machine rape station.
Strangely enough, no bugger hung around for his set, even the sound engineer came out for a natter half way through their first song.
I call that twat justice!
Oh well, all in all though I think I came out on top. Found a new band I like and want to follow, made some new chums and hopefully some new contacts.
London may be a bit shit but ive actually enjoyed gigging here, especially the travel. Did I mention I liked the tube? Shame it's full of cunts though!
Tattie bye
'Chunks
Saturday, 5 November 2011
What is happening to me?.!?
First of all.. Hello my name is 'chunks and I'm a cold play fan. I bought all their albums and I really want to see them live.. It's destroying my relationship. But I don't care..
Any ways...
Greetings chaps
Recently I've noticed some changes my life. I'm steadily steaming towards a professional music career, I no longer want the adoration of folk musicians, I love playing random nights supporting electro puffs and Death core metal bands. I now no longer want children (thanks to Dexter series 4) and I enjoyed the new Coldplay album on first listening.
What does this mean dear friends?
1
Well musicly speaking all you followers of mine are aware of my slut like gigging and I am of course in indebted to the support of my friends. Who fill up otherwise empty venues so I don't feel foolish.
But my revelation about Folk clubs and random showcases come from my recent shows. Originally my fear was that I would spend my life going round and round dingy folk clubs playing wild rover for the rest of my life. Being ostracised by my generation for playing old music.
Thankfully reality is much kinder. My music (and my attire) have been greatly received by all the contemporary venues and audience. I even had a 16 year old indie guitarist come over to chat to me about bb king.
That and the fact that at traditional pub and folk venues I get regular heckles of "vandal" when I add my own twist to traditional tunes, makes me feel a bit like Dylan going electric. (no I'm not getting delusions of BoB)
Why try and entertain sad old fucks who want you to play dirty old town "exactly like the Dubliners" when you can gig with musicians your own age, with fresh music and get young musicians excited about the music you love... Not a dificult decision really...
2
Watch Dexter series 4 and you'll never want kids, it leaves you no time for your murdering.
3
Normally when buying Coldplay records I dont like it,then It grows on me. I over play it then stop listening, then the next one arrives. (a bit like a serial killers cycle).
But i enjoyed myloxoloxylo on first listening.
This either means that after all these years I've stopped being a musical nazi , maybe I've relaxed my attitude and finally enjoy music for the sake of music and not give a shit who wrote it. Maybe finally I can just enjoy the joys of songwriting from all cultures and pull my head out of my arse.
Or Coldplay just aren't trying any more.
Cheerio
'Chunks
Any ways...
Greetings chaps
Recently I've noticed some changes my life. I'm steadily steaming towards a professional music career, I no longer want the adoration of folk musicians, I love playing random nights supporting electro puffs and Death core metal bands. I now no longer want children (thanks to Dexter series 4) and I enjoyed the new Coldplay album on first listening.
What does this mean dear friends?
1
Well musicly speaking all you followers of mine are aware of my slut like gigging and I am of course in indebted to the support of my friends. Who fill up otherwise empty venues so I don't feel foolish.
But my revelation about Folk clubs and random showcases come from my recent shows. Originally my fear was that I would spend my life going round and round dingy folk clubs playing wild rover for the rest of my life. Being ostracised by my generation for playing old music.
Thankfully reality is much kinder. My music (and my attire) have been greatly received by all the contemporary venues and audience. I even had a 16 year old indie guitarist come over to chat to me about bb king.
That and the fact that at traditional pub and folk venues I get regular heckles of "vandal" when I add my own twist to traditional tunes, makes me feel a bit like Dylan going electric. (no I'm not getting delusions of BoB)
Why try and entertain sad old fucks who want you to play dirty old town "exactly like the Dubliners" when you can gig with musicians your own age, with fresh music and get young musicians excited about the music you love... Not a dificult decision really...
2
Watch Dexter series 4 and you'll never want kids, it leaves you no time for your murdering.
3
Normally when buying Coldplay records I dont like it,then It grows on me. I over play it then stop listening, then the next one arrives. (a bit like a serial killers cycle).
But i enjoyed myloxoloxylo on first listening.
This either means that after all these years I've stopped being a musical nazi , maybe I've relaxed my attitude and finally enjoy music for the sake of music and not give a shit who wrote it. Maybe finally I can just enjoy the joys of songwriting from all cultures and pull my head out of my arse.
Or Coldplay just aren't trying any more.
Cheerio
'Chunks
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Gigs and over sized Ukeleles
Greetings Traveler,
I come baring interesting news. After a thoroughly Spiffing Jam session with the chaps from Bemis, I've been invited to play bass for them.
Fear not Friends of Chunk. I am not leaving you! i shall continue to write,record and play solo gigs. But I'll also be running about with an oversized ukelele with my old chums from Bemis!
Speaking of solo gigs I have a new set of gigs, 2 from Bristol and one from Laaandaaan with the lovely folks from Nambucca:
Nambucca
Holloway RoadLondon
On Sunday 6th November 7:30 start
The Pilgrim Inn
Hollywood Road
Bristol
On Thursday 24th November
Spring Garden Tavern
Hotwell Road
Bristol
On Friday 23rd December
For complete gig listings:
http://www.sweetchunks.co.uk/upcoming-gigs.html
Anyways i must away. The tedious chore of adding my new gigs to all my sites.... ugh i cry out for a manservant!
Cheers Chaps!
'Chunks
I come baring interesting news. After a thoroughly Spiffing Jam session with the chaps from Bemis, I've been invited to play bass for them.
Fear not Friends of Chunk. I am not leaving you! i shall continue to write,record and play solo gigs. But I'll also be running about with an oversized ukelele with my old chums from Bemis!
Speaking of solo gigs I have a new set of gigs, 2 from Bristol and one from Laaandaaan with the lovely folks from Nambucca:
Nambucca
Holloway RoadLondon
On Sunday 6th November 7:30 start
The Pilgrim Inn
Hollywood Road
Bristol
On Thursday 24th November
Spring Garden Tavern
Hotwell Road
Bristol
On Friday 23rd December
For complete gig listings:
http://www.sweetchunks.co.uk/upcoming-gigs.html
Anyways i must away. The tedious chore of adding my new gigs to all my sites.... ugh i cry out for a manservant!
Cheers Chaps!
'Chunks
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
Nambucca boss... like sambucca, just not spelt the same
Greetings Traveller.
Gig report for my first Gig in Laaaandan.
Nambucca ( near Islington) was a nice little gig, although it nearly didn't happen as the promoter did'nt tell the staff i was playing then didnt show up...
But luckily for me, my tightly waistcoated friends. the land lady was there and she came bearing a 20 minuet slot.
I would have liked to play longer, but one mustn't look a gift cockney in the mouth.
The 20 minuets though short were Jolly marvelous. I had a large sea mammal of a time, and aparently so did the audience.
Lots of singing and dancing, larking and cavorting all evening. And they've invited me back. rather nice of them!!
So Laandaan I bid you adieu but I will return.
and next time Ill bring condiments!
Special thanks to my Lovely Lily for driving me there and back again, to Simon Sellick for sitting in the back and dealing with my flatulence and Rob Wicksteed for letting me utilize his floor.
I will post up the new date & time malarkey when i get it.
Also if you live near Bristol Brace your face! there may be a chunk storm a coming!
Ta Ta all
'Chunks
Gig report for my first Gig in Laaaandan.
Nambucca ( near Islington) was a nice little gig, although it nearly didn't happen as the promoter did'nt tell the staff i was playing then didnt show up...
But luckily for me, my tightly waistcoated friends. the land lady was there and she came bearing a 20 minuet slot.
I would have liked to play longer, but one mustn't look a gift cockney in the mouth.
The 20 minuets though short were Jolly marvelous. I had a large sea mammal of a time, and aparently so did the audience.
Lots of singing and dancing, larking and cavorting all evening. And they've invited me back. rather nice of them!!
So Laandaan I bid you adieu but I will return.
and next time Ill bring condiments!
Special thanks to my Lovely Lily for driving me there and back again, to Simon Sellick for sitting in the back and dealing with my flatulence and Rob Wicksteed for letting me utilize his floor.
I will post up the new date & time malarkey when i get it.
Also if you live near Bristol Brace your face! there may be a chunk storm a coming!
Ta Ta all
'Chunks
Saturday, 22 October 2011
Words without melody....yet
Here's a couple of poems i wrote that i plan to turn into tunes at some point. what ever passes the time really
;)
Bar fly
Nose bloodied, loaded up with moneys
Take a trip to paradise
Wasn’t sure, my guts are on the floor
Coming back for another slice
Knock back, another double jack
Pretend it don’t affect me
Say cheers, hold back the tears
As the jukebox reminds me
(Chorus)
Took another’s word over my woman
She took another mans word over mine
I drank another drink when I knew I shouldn’t
Now im holding up the bar until they call time
Four more, hold open the door
Can you see where my phone fell?
Dark eyes, took me by surprise
Drove her off with my awful smell
Outside, nursing my pride
Wondered where it all went wrong
Take a drag, from the doorman’s fag
Keep this up and ill die alone
(Chorus)
Took another’s word over my woman
She took another mans word over mine
I drank another drink when I knew I shouldn’t
Now im holding up he bar until time
Underfed, its gone straight to my head
Tripped over a fag machine
Change tack, after falling flat on my back
Take my legs from under me
Picked up and dusted off,
Keep saying ill be alright
Im told, for the third time I’m told
Keep this up and ill end up in a fight
(Chorus)
Took another’s word over my woman
She took another mans word over mine
I drank another drink when I knew I shouldn’t
Now im holding up he bar until time
Drink on high, drink the bar dry
Spending money I don’t have
Can I borrow a score for a few drinks more
And a fiver for the cab
I drink till I cant think
I can’t bare to be alone
How can you say it will end this way?
I can’t bare to be alone…
(Chorus)
Took another’s word over my woman
She took another mans word over mine
I drank another drink when I knew I shouldn’t
What do I do now they’ve called time…
....a lover not a fight..
A dark cut man flew across the pond
To a smoky stage in London
Preached about a darker world
To any one who’d listen.
Within a billowing cloud of cigarette smoke
They listened to every word he spoke
From the people in the street,
To the hight of hipocracy,
He paced up and down Venting his bile
The timid in the audience got scared after a while
The rest stared transfixed like a car crash in the street
By the end theres a new congregation worshipping at his feet
.
He laid down the law in a dark hard voice
You just listened, You didn’t have a choice
He pulled you in you didn’t need proof
You just knew every word was the fucking truth
(chorus)
It’s just a ride
It’s just a ride
All the torment
The bloodshed
The dishonesty and pride
All the political talks
All the new kids on the blocks
Hiding all the other bolocks
Its just a ride
There’s thrills and chills and bright lighting
It’s colourful and very loud
And it all seems very frightening
He said unto the crowd
Never be frightened or scared of it
Put your fears to one side
Just enjoy yourself and remember
It’s all just a ride
(chorus)
It’s just a ride
It’s just a ride
All the torment
The bloodshed
The dishonesty and pride
Put your fear to one side
Just enjoy yourself as I remind
You that this is all just a ride
Take a long drag of beef and potatoes
You imagine im working and ill take my wage
Out the emergency exit a small child goes
While in the cop car’s light the underpass is a stage
You call the cops ill pull up G13
While we wait we’ll watch IRS bust
As Ringo’s on the ceiling playing a yellow tamberine
Watch for low flying buic scuds
(chorus)
It’s just a ride
It’s just a ride
All the torment
The bloodshed
The dishonesty and pride
All those people in desperation
Lost years ago theyre aspiration
Desperately hiding from the revelation
That it’s all just a ride
All that’s left today
Is an empty stage
Still resonating
From the power of his rage
So light up a cigarette
In tribute lest we forget
And remember the words he said from the start
Play from your fucking heart
(chorus)
It’s just a ride
It’s just a ride
All the torment
The bloodshed
The dishonesty and pride
Forget those who’ve preached to you
High and mighties who look down on you
‘Cus I’ve got something to tell you
It’s all just a ride
Written as a Tribute to the great Bill Hicks
Hope that was informative..
Drink up
'Chunks
Friday, 21 October 2011
In the Dog house with the Dog house boat boys...
Suck my puns you sauce bitches! you love it
Good evening Chaps!
Having just returned from what can only be described as the gig from hell I am surprisingly chipper.
On arrival at the Bittern pub i noticed a similar facade to the Alamo, (with authentic bullet holes and pools of blood). The interior was slightly confusing, one wall had a series of instruments ( both musical and what appeared to be crudely surgical) nailed to it while another wall was adorned with spitfire posters and the roof had a confederate flag next to a union flag. Kitch wasn't the word for it and a word if used aloud would have initiated violence from the patrons, a mix of lurid, staring old farts, pretentious white haired old farts (who sneered at everything that myself and the headliners played, but when confronted said they loved it.) and drunk lads and ladettes who thought they were the life and soul of the party, who everyone else hoped would fuck off to the center of the sun.
One thing that caught my attention was the Padlock bracket on the OUTSIDE of the toilets. What terrible toilet beast frequented the halls of an evening and would it appear during my set and devour my audience. (which would have been a relief for both parties.)
To say the gig was not well received would be like saying Hitler could on occasion get a bit narky.
Admittedly I played shit, fucking up the occasional chord but even the "Boat Boys" who are brilliant crowd pleasers got a luke warm reception.
The audience couldn't be fucked, they were bland boring arseholes who are shining examples of the virtues of euthanasia. An example of how they completely missed the point was when one drunk.....chap came up to me and asked if i could play "razorlight or sumfin?'" I wanted to say I'd rather jump in a piranha tank, bollock naked with pate' smeared on my John Thomas. but i had to be diplomatic and say "razor light wouldnt really work on a banjo.."
But I am in a good mood because I'm relaxing in bed with Soup, lily is on her way home and i have £40 in my back pocket.
Yeah the gig was shit but it could have been worse....
I could have played Razorlight.
Drink up!
Sweetchunks.
Good evening Chaps!
Having just returned from what can only be described as the gig from hell I am surprisingly chipper.
On arrival at the Bittern pub i noticed a similar facade to the Alamo, (with authentic bullet holes and pools of blood). The interior was slightly confusing, one wall had a series of instruments ( both musical and what appeared to be crudely surgical) nailed to it while another wall was adorned with spitfire posters and the roof had a confederate flag next to a union flag. Kitch wasn't the word for it and a word if used aloud would have initiated violence from the patrons, a mix of lurid, staring old farts, pretentious white haired old farts (who sneered at everything that myself and the headliners played, but when confronted said they loved it.) and drunk lads and ladettes who thought they were the life and soul of the party, who everyone else hoped would fuck off to the center of the sun.
One thing that caught my attention was the Padlock bracket on the OUTSIDE of the toilets. What terrible toilet beast frequented the halls of an evening and would it appear during my set and devour my audience. (which would have been a relief for both parties.)
To say the gig was not well received would be like saying Hitler could on occasion get a bit narky.
Admittedly I played shit, fucking up the occasional chord but even the "Boat Boys" who are brilliant crowd pleasers got a luke warm reception.
The audience couldn't be fucked, they were bland boring arseholes who are shining examples of the virtues of euthanasia. An example of how they completely missed the point was when one drunk.....chap came up to me and asked if i could play "razorlight or sumfin?'" I wanted to say I'd rather jump in a piranha tank, bollock naked with pate' smeared on my John Thomas. but i had to be diplomatic and say "razor light wouldnt really work on a banjo.."
But I am in a good mood because I'm relaxing in bed with Soup, lily is on her way home and i have £40 in my back pocket.
Yeah the gig was shit but it could have been worse....
I could have played Razorlight.
Drink up!
Sweetchunks.
Tuesday, 18 October 2011
Sweetchunks.co.uk goes live!
Greetings Chaps!
All the best things in the world are done in a relaxed, reclined position. Drinking, Smoking, Lady Tending, Xbox and Sandwiches to name but a few.
Now Sweetchunks.co.uk can enter that list. For the past few days I have been a reclined hermit dwelling in my bedroom only venturing out to go to work or acknowledge the existence of my better half.
Many thanks to Dan Griffiths for building it. and remaining silent as I defile it's hapless form with waffle and Demos.
Onwards! Slowly catching up to the digital age!
Ta ta
Sweetchunks
All the best things in the world are done in a relaxed, reclined position. Drinking, Smoking, Lady Tending, Xbox and Sandwiches to name but a few.
Now Sweetchunks.co.uk can enter that list. For the past few days I have been a reclined hermit dwelling in my bedroom only venturing out to go to work or acknowledge the existence of my better half.
Many thanks to Dan Griffiths for building it. and remaining silent as I defile it's hapless form with waffle and Demos.
Onwards! Slowly catching up to the digital age!
Ta ta
Sweetchunks
Monday, 17 October 2011
"I name this Blog Geoff, God bless her and all who sail in her"
Evening Chaps!
It's 23:32. I'm in my room, My eyes ache from staring at Facebook and for some reason I Have chosen this moment to launch the good ship Geoff*.
I suppose the when or where does not matter, what's important is the content and as i have Fuck all to say at this moment in time i shall keep this brief..
This will be a platform for thrusting Folk related tomfoolery into the face of the internet. The aim is to have an interesing (and hopefully entertaining) chronicle of my travels as a Blues/Folk player.
Expect bad language, bad grammar, bad spelling and pointless tangents..
You have been warned:
anyways Onwards!
I'm looking forward to Friday's Gig at the Bitterne in Bitterne. At the Bitterne in Bitterne I'm finally sharing a stage with Southampton's own Bluegrass legends: "The Dog House Boat Boys".
With this gig (at the Bitterne in Bitterne) I now feel like I'm finally moving away from poorly planned showcases with thrash metal bands and techno D.J's. this could be however, a temporary ray of joy. If so then I hope to be struck down by lightning during sound check, then I am ended at the moment of Folky perfection.
Either way Friday should be a good a Jolly good laugh. so come on down (to the Bitterne in Bitterne) with or without your wash boards.
I also have my first London Gig on Sunday so if your anywhere near Nambucca feel free to pop along. I'm a little anxious over this one as I'll be popping my big smoke cherry (hmm song title?) but also playing in front of some old friends who until today thought i was doing techno/guitar prog rock.... not sure fans of that kind of music will approve of my patchwork trousers but meh...
Any way i hope the gods of the internet are apeased by this big pile of bollocks. If not then may they hear this cry:
"I cant write coherently! i went to Art college!"
Looks like i did have something to say afterall..
Cheerio Mo fo's
Dog house boat boys on Myface
*It's unlucky to travel in a craft without a name. So since I am (as the parlance says) "surfing the web" my vessel needs a name: so Geoff it is! and if you don't like it go lick a cadence..... yes you heard me!
It's 23:32. I'm in my room, My eyes ache from staring at Facebook and for some reason I Have chosen this moment to launch the good ship Geoff*.
I suppose the when or where does not matter, what's important is the content and as i have Fuck all to say at this moment in time i shall keep this brief..
This will be a platform for thrusting Folk related tomfoolery into the face of the internet. The aim is to have an interesing (and hopefully entertaining) chronicle of my travels as a Blues/Folk player.
Expect bad language, bad grammar, bad spelling and pointless tangents..
You have been warned:
anyways Onwards!
I'm looking forward to Friday's Gig at the Bitterne in Bitterne. At the Bitterne in Bitterne I'm finally sharing a stage with Southampton's own Bluegrass legends: "The Dog House Boat Boys".
With this gig (at the Bitterne in Bitterne) I now feel like I'm finally moving away from poorly planned showcases with thrash metal bands and techno D.J's. this could be however, a temporary ray of joy. If so then I hope to be struck down by lightning during sound check, then I am ended at the moment of Folky perfection.
Either way Friday should be a good a Jolly good laugh. so come on down (to the Bitterne in Bitterne) with or without your wash boards.
I also have my first London Gig on Sunday so if your anywhere near Nambucca feel free to pop along. I'm a little anxious over this one as I'll be popping my big smoke cherry (hmm song title?) but also playing in front of some old friends who until today thought i was doing techno/guitar prog rock.... not sure fans of that kind of music will approve of my patchwork trousers but meh...
Any way i hope the gods of the internet are apeased by this big pile of bollocks. If not then may they hear this cry:
"I cant write coherently! i went to Art college!"
Looks like i did have something to say afterall..
Cheerio Mo fo's
Dog house boat boys on Myface
*It's unlucky to travel in a craft without a name. So since I am (as the parlance says) "surfing the web" my vessel needs a name: so Geoff it is! and if you don't like it go lick a cadence..... yes you heard me!
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