TOP 5 BOOKS I'VE READ RECENTLY

1. Steve Earle - I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive (2011)
As it turns out, Steve Earle is not only an incredible musician, but also a wonderful writer. I could not put this book down! I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive is an interesting story about an ex-doctor-turned-heroin-junkie who does black market abortions for prostitutes to fund his habit. Oh, and regularly takes advice from the ghost of Hank Williams. On completion of this book, I immediately ordered Earle's collection of short stories, Doghouse Roses, and biographies from both Steve Earle himself and Hank Williams. I'm keen to see how much (if any) of these captivating characters are based on real life.

2. Haruki Murakami - Norwegian Wood (1987)
Not your average soppy romance novel, Norwegian Wood takes three not-so-average young characters through some of life's many challenges. This was the first book Murakami wrote that had real worldwide success - it was, in fact, the first one I read. But I love his writing style and choice of words. I'll be sure to investigate his other (supposedly more twisted) works.

3. Tina Fey - Bossypants (2011)
Reading this book made me realise how much of Tina Fey's character in 30 Rock was based on her actual self. In a voice that could quite easily be lines from a Liz Lemon script, Fey uses humorous anecdotes to tell the story of her life and give her worldly advice about all things comedy. A thoroughly enjoyable and enthralling read, any fan of 30 Rock, Saturday Night Live or stand-up comedy in general will love this book!

4. Johnny Cash - Cash: The Autobiography of Johnny Cash (1997)
A heart-wrenchingly honest look at the real man, this autobiography paints the true picture of how Johnny Cash got to where he was. It is hard to believe that this book was the basis for the hugely romanticised biopic, Walk the Line, considering his own portrayal of himself show a much darker side. We are taken through his traumatic youth, the highs and lows of his two marriages, and his fall into pain-killer addiction. After reading this book, I had an even greater appreciation for the emotion behind his music.

5. Haruki Murakami - Sputnik Sweetheart (1999)
This story centres around Sumire, a passionate and spontaneous young lady who has always had a bit of trouble fitting in. And, when she falls in love with an unexpected someone, life gets even more tough. The story is told from the point of view of long time friend, K, who is, in fact, quite infatuated by Sumire himself, which makes for some interesting perspective. What follows next in Sumire's disappearance which takes the story enters a whole new level of craziness.

TOP 5 ALBUMS I'VE LISTENED TO RECENTLY

1. Dr. John - Locked Down
I was thrilled when I heard that Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys would be producing Dr. John's latest record, but I had no idea they would work together this well. Having already listened to it about fifty times, and still finding new joy with every listen, I doubt I will be getting sick of it any time soon...
Now I know that time song is not actually featured on the album, but it is such an incredible video that I couldn't help putting it down here.
Dr. John & Etta James - 'I'd Rather Go Blind' video

2. Alabama Shakes - Boys & Girls
Imagine if the Drive-By Truckers joined forces with Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings to crate a really emotional soul album filled with anguish. Now throw in one of the best new Southern voices around right now, and you have Alabama Shakes. Just take a look at this video for an example of their great sound.
'Hold On' video

3. Jack White - Blunderbuss
We'd been hearing for quite some time that Jack White was working to produce his first ever solo effort, and to me, 'Blunderbuss' doesn't sound too far removed from the stuff he was doing with the White Stripes (or the Raconteurs, or the Dead Weather.) I love this album.
'Sixteen Saltines' music video

4. Father John Misty - Fear Fun
After his brief stint as drummer in Fleet Foxes, J. Tillman has released his latest recording under a new alias - Father John Misty. 'Fear Fun' is an achingly beautiful record with simple layered harmonies and interesting lyrics. He sings with passion, straining his voice to emphasize his attachment to the lyrical content. This is an album really worth sitting down and listening to. Also, anyone casting Aubrey Plaza in a music video deserves recognition.
'Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings' music video

5. Galactic - Carnivale Electricos
The eighth studio album from Galactic mixes blues, New Orleans funk, hip hop, bounce and a dash of Brazilian Carnivale into one big happy pot. It features Cyril and Ivan Neville, Mystikal, and various members from local Mardi Gras Indian groups as guest vocalists. If you want to experience the real spirit of New Orleans music, this record is a taste of what it's all about.
 'Hey Na Na' music video

ALL THINGS PAST

It's been a while since I've written in this blog, but between organising a wedding and then actually getting married, I haven't really had much opportunity to sit down in front of a computer... This is probably an appropriate time to apologise for my obligatory bride and groom photo - but it's not often that I get dressed up in nice clothes with my hair and make-up done all pretty, so I'm going to show it off, DAMN IT. Thanks to Dark Roux for the photos. 


Now, however, with all of that done 'n dusted, I will continue on with my blog life as before, starting with a short summary of what I have been up to. And how better to summarize the last few months than with a series of Top 5's...

GIVERS and PORTUGAL. THE MAN at THE CORNER HOTEL FEB 9th 2012

I went to this gig with absolutely no expectations, and as a result had a pretty damn good time. Both bands fall into that 'indie-alternative-MGMT-meets-Phoenix' genre of sorts. Portland residents, Portugal. The Man played first, kicking off with 'So American,' one of the more accessible songs from their latest album. Everyone in the audience responded enthusiastically, singing and dancing along, but I found what happened next to be way more impressive. They moved into a much more psychedelic realm, playing experimental jams that went on forever with lots of distorted guitars but without pretentiousness. I was especially impressed by their cover of the Beatles' Helter Skelter and how well they slotted it into their own songs. I was quite surprised by how they flowed seamlessly from one tune into the next as if this was how they were meant to be listened to, particularly considering I find their latest album to be very rigid in its 'pop song' formula. I may have to go back and listen to some of their earlier stuff to really appreciate their studio work.

Sadly, half the crowd left after Portugal. The Man so they didn't get to experience the next band. Givers hail from Lafayette, Louisiana, (as we were told in just about every voice break throughout their set), but I think they were just super excited to be so far from home. They were so much fun to watch, mostly due to the way adorable lead vocalist and percussionist, Tiffany Lamson bashed away on the drums and the flirty looks she shared with other vocalist and guitarist, Taylor Guarisco. The songs were so upbeat and catchy, it would be impossible not to walk away with a massive grin on your face.

Some worthwhile linkage:
Portugal. The Man - So American
Portugal. The Man - Got it All (This Can't Be Living Now)

Givers - Up Up Up
Givers - Meantime

xx

BIRDMAN EATING

238 Gertrude St

Fitzroy VIC 3065

I had been recommended Birdman Eating by several of my friends for a great breakfast , and this Saturday I finally had the opportunity to check it out for myself. We rocked up at around 10:30am which seemed like the perfect time as the place got steadily busier after that until there was a line to get a table. We were a little bleary eyed from the night before so I was looking forward to a hearty breakfast and I chose the Lamb Bolognese Baked Egg off the specials board.
I wish I had taken a photo of my meal because it really was a wonderful looking dish, but when you are as positively ravenous as I was, observing and documenting your food isn't really what you're thinking about. The meat was beautifully cooked with a nicely textured egg and a gooey yolk, and the sour dough bread was a nice accompaniment for dipping.

I restaurant was quirky with birdmen hanging from the ceiling made from those wooden models you always used in art class at school. The waitstaff were polite and efficient and the food was delicious and well presented.

After the meal, we wandered next door to Northside Records for a browse through their record selection. It was a throughly satisfying way to start our Saturday.

Birdman Eating Website

xx

GIRL TALK at the PALACE THEATRE JAN 31st 2012

After an exhaustingly hot festival day and then a couple of long days at work, I was not looking forward to getting dressed up for another night of partying. But within moments of Girl Talk pressing play on his first mix, my toes were tapping, my hips were shaking and my jaw had dropped all the way to the floor. It is hard to find words to describe a Girl Talk show that really does justice to the experience. You really have to see, hear, and feel it for yourself.

When it comes to mash-up DJs, Girl Talk (known to his mother as Gregg Gillis) is definitely one of the absolute best. It would be easy for him to simply stand up behind his laptop, nodding his head and clicking his mouse, but this guy bounces around the stage like an freakin' energizer bunny. He seriously did not stop for the entire time he was up there. At one point he actually got up on the desk to dance around for a bit. In addition to these antics, he had some of the party-goers up on stage dancing around with him, confetti cannons showering the crowd, toilet paper guns, masses of balloons, a pyrotechnics show, and a massive screen with ever-changing images projected on it.

Girl Talk expertly mixes songs across six decades dipping into many genres including rock, pop, hip hop and dance. It was interesting to see that the most enthusiastic crowd response came from the big rock songs and not the indie dance or hip hop tracks. It felt like every person in the venue sang along to Nirvana, Bon Jovi, Weezer, and even Rick Springfield. And, this may be the only time I've heard an Adele song and not felt instantly depressed (especially since it was mixed with Metallica.)

The energy at a gig like this is incredibly infectious. I challenge anyone to go along to a Girl Talk show and not get into it. This is the dance party for people that don't like dance music.

Some links:
Girl Talk on Facebook
Girl Talk on Myspace
Girl Talk music on Illegal Art

And a couple of videos:

Play Your Part pt. 1
Oh No

xx

MARIACHI el BRONX at BILLBOARD JAN 30th 2012

Having first encountered Mariachi el Bronx in the sweltering hot box that was the Hot Produce tent at the Big Day Out the day before, I was thrilled to finally get my opportunity to see these guys in a show of their own. I've played the first album more times than I can count and the latest one is already heading down the same path. Musically the band is incredibly tight, the melody is up-beat and cheerful, the lyrics are genuine and honest, and the band members are endearing as hell.

Frontman and singer, Matt Caughthran seems like he is made for this kind of music - I find it hard to believe that these guys were a punk band first. Caughthran chats candidly with the audience throughout the show. He discusses what the songs are about, why he loves playing music, why he likes visiting our town in particular, and how much he appreciates the fans. On this particular night, he tells how the entire show represents our erotic journey with him, arousing the crowd with anecdotes of how each of the songs represent various sexual positions. It takes everything the band has keep a (reasonably) straight face.

A show like this certainly does leave you feeling pretty damn great. And, they have promised that they will be returning to Australia later in the year once the new Bronx record is complete to tour as The Bronx, with support from themselves as Mariachi el Bronx. You can be sure to find me front-row-centre singing along to every song at the top of my lungs, with at least seventy percent of the lyrics totally wrong. See you there.

Interesting links:

Mariachi el Bronx website

The Bronx on Facebook

The Bronx on Twitter

Videos worth checking out:
Cell Mates
Holy
48 Roses at Austin City Limits

xx

BIG DAY OUT at FLEMINGTON RACECOURSE JAN 29th 2012

When I wake up to an extremely humid, thirty-five degree day, the last thing I want to do is head to a festival with thousands of other sweaty punters so I can sit in the sun, withering away. But, we do it for the music - and, because sometimes sharing that disgusting environment with a heap of strangers is just what music in the summertime is all about. Plus, there is nothing quite like a cold cider to help with the dehydration woes.

We arrived just as OFWGKTA (Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All) took the stage in the Boiler Room and although I hadn't heard much of their music previously, I was instantly taken by their commanding presence on stage, particularly that of Tyler the Creator who took the mic for the majority of the time. These guys intended to offend, what with their crude language, racy themes and aggressive heckling of the crowd, but I think that this is the bulk of their appeal. Their beats were a tad boring for me, however I, as I am sure was the case with a large proportion of the people crammed in the tent, was curious to see what all the fuss was about.

Our next stop was the Hot Produce tent (which I will fondly refer to as The Sauna from now on) for local rock-ska-punk outfit, King Cannons. They put on a great show with lots of energy and a host of catchy tunes which I'll continue to hum for weeks to come. I did, however, much prefer their upbeat rocking numbers over their slow reggae tunes.

We dropped in for a couple of songs of Royksopp, Das Racist and Faker in each of their tents respectively, with mildly pleasant feelings toward all, and then made our way back to The Sauna to get a good spot for Mariachi el Bronx. What was already too stuffy to be considered remotely comfortable, seemed to have risen an extra ten degrees in temperature and an extra ten percent in humidity. In saying that, the band put a a great show! I looked forward to seeing them the following night in a much more comfortable environment.

We laid lazily in the grass while Soundgarden played a set that reeked of nostalgia and a time that once was... Their performance wasn't exciting or mind-blowning to me at all, but I am happy to be able to say that I know what their live show looks and feels like.

And then there was Kanye: the man that said that the worst thing about being him was that he would never get to see himself perform. But boy did he put on a crazy-spectacular show. Right from the beginning with the orchestral opening number complete with comtemporary ballet dancers and a song sung from the top of a cherry-picker in the middle of the crowd. I have to admit that he was thoroughly enjoyable to watch and the crowd sure did dig him. There was a lot of dancing going on.

Although the event organizers probably don't agree with me, I thought that the best thing about this particular Big Day Out was the extreme lack of people there. For the first time at a festival that I have been to, there were no queues at the food stalls, toilets or drink tents. It was a good day. See you next year, Big Day Out!

xx

RUE de FLEURUS

153 Gertrude St,
Fitzroy VIC 3065

Popped into this bar on my way home from the city the other day. I was drawn in by the sign promising $5 pints and the sweet beckoning vocals of Sam Cooke on the stereo. It was a welcoming environment. Hard-wood floors, an enticingly varied menu that changes from week to week, a classicly furnished indoor dining room and a outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying a cool beer or cider while watching the Gertrude Street traffic go by.

There is a piano in the corner that anyone is welcome to have a go at. But, on this Saturday afternoon a DJ was mixing some tunes. He moved seamlessly from Sam Cooke to Doves to a housed-up Fleetwood Mac remix as the night progressed. And, I hear that on other evenings they host film nights and exhibitions.

Park your bike outside for a casual drink with friends or plan a big night of cocktails and dancing. Rue de Fleurus is a wonderful place to eat, drink and be merry.

Rue de Fleurus on Facebook

xx

SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME of SHADOWS

Director: Guy Ritchie
Writers: Michele Mulroney, Kieran Mulroney & Arthur Conan Dole
Stars: Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Jared Harris & Noomi Rapace

Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and Dr. Watson (Jude Law) join forces for one last time in an effort to defeat Holmes' archenemy Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris) before Watson happily escapes in to married life. Along the way, they call on Holmes' brother, Mycroft (Stephen Fry) and gypsy, Simza (Noomi Rapace) to help get to the bottom of an even more widespread mystery than they originally thought.

This Sherlock Holmes flick is very much in the same style as its predecessor. From the very first scene there is action, intrigue and, of course, the obligatory witty banter between Holmes and just about everyone he talks to. Stephen Fry's place as Holmes' socially inappropriate brother was a very welcome addition to the cast and definitely added to the light-hearted feel of this sometimes action-heavy film.

Overall, this is a totally enjoyable film with just enough spectacular scenery, massive explosions and well executed fight scenes to keep the viewer enthralled on a visual level. Further, Sherlock Holmes' incredible ability to observe any situation and envision both what had happened previously and what was to follow was very effectively portrayed with the use of slow motion footage (as it was in the prequel). The best scene of the film was the chess match between Moriarty and Holmes, which very effectively showed the film maker's competence in both character relationships and spectacle. And, the multi-layered narratives created a very exciting climax.

xx 

THE MUPPETS

Director: James Bobin
Writers: Jason Segel, Nicholas Stoller
Stars: Jason Segel, Amy Adams

Walter grew up watching the Muppets on television and, for years, has dreamt of going to Los Angeles to join their act. His brother, Gary (Jason Segel) and, girlfriend, Mary (Amy Adams) are heading to Los Angeles to celebrate their ten year anniversary. Gary surprises Walter with a ticket to join them on their journey and the three of them head along to the Muppet Studios to take a tour of the once great show. Only to find when they arrive that evil oil boss, Tex Richman, wants to knock down the studio to drill the grounds for oil. It's up to Walter, Gary and Mary with the help of Kermit the Frog to round up all the Muppets and put on a telethon and save the studio.

It is extremely apparent that writers, Jason Segel & Nicholas Stoller and director, James Bobin are huge Muppets fans. This film plays out like a tribute to the Muppets. All your favourite characters are there, doing what they do best. Gonzo is doing some daredevil stunt, Miss Piggy is her usual dramatic self and Fozzy's jokes may have got even worse.. Though, they have modernized the act with a couple of contemporary tunes - my favourite is the 'barbershop quartet' butchering Nirvana's 'Smells Like Team Spirit.' Likewise, with every Muppets episode, this movie is riddled with celebrity cameos. And they all seem to be having a ball. Well, except for poor ol' Jack Black. Whether you are a Muppets fan from way back or discovering them for the first time, it would be hard not to walk away from this film without a huge smile on your face!

I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It had just the right amount of heart-warming moments, corny one-liners, and catchy songs (with the exception of the unnecessary rap from Tex Richman.) I would recommend it to anyone.

xx

THE GEM BAR and DINING

289 Wellington St
Collingwood VIC 3066

One of the hardest things about living in Melbourne is that there are many more great bars and restaurants than there are days to visit them. Especially because, since discovering the Gem Bar and Dining, I haven't really wanted to go anywhere else.

The Gem is a comfortable pub, full of character, with a fun, countrified rockabilly vibe. The front bar is delightfully cluttered with plenty of odds 'n ends to keep your eyes busy while enjoying one of the several beers or ciders on tap. There are Mexican wrestling masks and cowboy boots up behind the bar, the walls are lined with posters of music legends and Elvis records. And, the furniture and bar is all hard wood with cow-skin stools to sit on. It gets a little bit rowdy on Friday and Saturday nights, particularly when any of the great live performers are at the mic. However, if you would like a quieter dining experience, there is a back dining area complete with taxidermy animals hanging from the walls and the upstairs dining area looks much like your nan's kitchen.

Oh, and the food! The menu comprises of your usual pub favourites like the Chicken Parma and the Fish & Chips, although there are many other delicious options like the Brazilian Fish Stew or the Pulled Pork Sandwich. If you're lucky you'll come in to find the Creole Spiced Pork Spare Ribs on the specials board. Every dish I have had at the Gem has been delicately flavoured, substantially filling and comforting as hell.

Head down there for a bit of live music, a good meal, a cold beer and some of the most amicable bar staff in town.

The Gem Bar and Dining website

The Gem Bar on Facebook

To book a table:

(03) 9419 5170

xx

JIM JONES REVUE at the EAST BRUNSWICK CLUB JAN 2nd 2012

Jim Jones Revue played an intense show at the East Brunswick Club last night. The forty degree heat created a pretty disgusting cesspool of a crowd which actually seemed quite fitting for the gig. Drummer, Nick Jones, mentioned afterwards that he likes the audience to get as sweaty as they do. And that was most definitely the case on this particular evening. The unified-sweat-bond does, undeniably, break down personal space barriers between you and your fellow fan. Especially when you're all singing at the top of your lungs, until your throat is hoarse, to the same great Jim Jones Revue songs. Front man, Jim Jones, has a on-stage personality that is part Johnny Thunders, part Dr. Frank-N-Furter, and part David Bowie! And keyboard player, Henri Herbert has the most expressive facial expressions you'll ever see. All live music performances should be this enthralling. I imagine that if Jerry Lee Lewis was born about fifty years later that this would be his kind-of music..

See for yourself! A hint of what to expect from their live show:
High Horse
Shoot First
Elemental

And if you're interested.. more photos

xx

HANNI EL KHATIB at THE TOTE JAN 1st 2012

It was thirty-something degrees and I'm pretty sure that everyone in the venue was running on about three hours sleep when Hanni El Khatib took to the stage at The Tote on Sunday night. But that didn't stop him from playing a great set. Accompanied by drummer Nicky Fleming-Yaryan, Khatib played just about every song off his debut record, 'Will The Guns Come Out,' and a few ones that we had never heard. It was an intimate gig, but still suitably rawkus. Distorted guitars, lo-fi fuzzy vocals and a cool beer in a iconic Melbourne pub was the best way to start a new year.

Have a look at some of his videos:
Dead Wrong
Loved One
You Rascal You

xx

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2011

Every year I write a diary to keep a record of all the music I discover, films I watch, and events I attend. This year, I have decided to take a step into the technologically advanced world of the internet and write a blog. 

And where better to start than with my top album releases of 2011.

Starting with number ten:

10. Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears - Scandalous

 Hailing from Austin, TX this is the second full-length album release from Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears. It combines rock & roll, modern soul and dirty blues guitars to create the closest thing you'll find to a James Brown record in this day and age... Song highlights: 'Booty City' & 'Mustang Ranch.'

9. The Horrors - Skying

 I like this album more and more with every listen. It is a more mature record than the previous two albums and very well produced. Great 80s synths and powerful vocals. Song favourites: 'I Can See Through You' and 'Endless Blue.'

8. Grouplove - Never Trust A Happy Song

I can't get enough of this feel-good album. It combines elements of pop, indie, folk, and alternative-electronica. It is filled with plenty of catchy songs with wonderful vocal harmonies, very much in the vain of the Mamas & Papas or more recently, Cloud Control. Best songs: 'Colours' and 'Slow.' 

7. Mariachi El Bronx - II

I do not mind in the slightest that there was nothing particularly new or different about the second Mariachi El Bronx album, it is exactly what I hoped it would be. And I was needing a new CD to play when we had friends over for a Mexican dinner and margaritas. It's hard not to be happy when listening to this stuff!

6. Jonathan Wilson - Gentle Spirit

An introspective singer-songwriter effort, this stunningly beautiful album that transports the listener back to Laurel Canyon in the 60s and 70s. I just love his heartfelt lyrics and soft building guitar. Best tracks: 'Gentle Spirit' and 'The Way I Feel.'

5. Wilco - The Whole Love

I am to a level of such incredible infatuation with Jeff Tweedy that I truly believe that he can do no wrong. Luckily for me, each Wilco album really is fantastic in different ways (and yes, that includes Wilco The Album.) It may be a more mellow album than some of their previous work, but I think it holds up with Tweedy's incredible sincerity, Nels Cline's spectacular guitar work and band's overall ability to work seamlessly. Favourite tracks: 'Art of Almost' - ridiculously good way to open an album! and 'I Might.'

4. The Black Keys - El Camino

My top ten was well and truly decided upon for the year, and then the Black Keys rocked up with their eighth and most accessible album to date, and messed it all up. If you haven't seen the clip for 'Lonely Boy' yet, then you absolutely must. Everyone should listen to this album!

3. My Morning Jacket - Circuital

A tremendously underrated rock band from Louisville, Kentucky, My Morning Jacket's seventh album release is close to topping their 2005 release 'Z' for me. There is something so incredibly captivating about the way Jim James' handsomely-hairy exterior is completely contradicted by his sweet falsetto voice. If you haven't embarked on the My Morning Jacket journey yet, Circuital is a good a place as any to start. Or check out this video from Okonokos: My Morning Jacket - Wordless Chorus

2. Gillian Welch - The Harrow & The Harvest

It's been eight years since her last record, but believe me, it was well worth the wait. Again, with her writing and singing partner, Dave Rawlings, she has created a simply beautiful country/bluegrass/folk record that appeals to every walk of life. Stand out tracks (though in this case, it was hard to pick just a couple):  'Scarlett Town' and 'Tenessee.'

and finally... numero uno!

1. The Decemberists - The King Is Dead

It wasn't until looking back at my top ten that I realised how much I have been enjoying county-influenced music this year. And,  The Decemberists are definitely one modern alternative band that dip their fingers quite heavily in the country music paint pot. I have really liked previous Decemberists records but this one was something truly special. Having listened to this album close to a hundred times and loving it more with every listen, I can't help but reflect over the incredible feelings one can have towards music. The fact that I got to see them perform a lot of these songs in New Orleans in April 2011 helped my love for the album grow quite considerably. Since Colin Meloy is such an entertaining front-man and raconteur, live performance gives real heart to the songs. I recommend this album to everyone out there. Fav songs: 'Don't Carry It All' and 'This Is Why We Fight.'

Now onward to the future...

Thanks for reading,

xxx Johanna Michelle