3 posts tagged “phonogenic”
... was the answer I gave my friend yesterday. She called to remind me of my promise to take her swimming.
I have never been so bruised, stiff and otherwise useless to the world as I was on Sunday. Why? Well, you may remember from my last post that I was going to give Roman-Greco wrestling a go. I did. I don't think I've ever done a more physically demanding sport in my life. Jujitsu is tough, but I don't do as much groundwork. This is INSANE. Saying that, the more experienced chaps know how to use the minimum amount of energy to maximum effect. Whereas I looked like I was somehow drowning with arms and legs flailing around. Most of the guys there are intimidatigly athletic and much fitter than me. One of the guys I met is an ex training partner of Chuck Liddell. Eek.
That said, I couldn't have met a bunch of more friendly, accomodating people. I was invited out to lunch afterwards and for a drink in the west end which was a really nice gesture. THere's no meat heads or ego's there. So I'll be going again.
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Anyhow, just been over to phonogenic for a chat about this and that as I like to on Monday's sometimes. As mentioned before I really like heading over there as I always walk away with some new insight into the dark art of A&R. Was chatting about some new signings that have been happening here and there including a couple of acts that recently created a feeding frenzy amongst the majors.
I've just got a message from the CHAPMAN FAMILY, they've confirmed for the 22nd March. So that should be great fun. The 22nd will also see the return of THE LOST LEVELS, who I frickin love. In a purely professional manner of course. They've got some new stuff including a track called '5' which I really like. Still confirming acts so new submissions always welcome.
So what's happening out there? I haven't really got any news from any of you. Are you still out there? Are you doing wonderful things? I hope so. If so I want to hear about them. Big apologies to Stewart at Emsar as I haven't got back to you yet. Just got out the end of a horrible week. Will be in touch today.
Hope all is well with you.
Hello all,
Meeting up with another artist today. Had a sucessful meeting yesterday, brought someone in to audition for Phonogenic. That's one of the many reasons I like Paul and Tops over there. You hear of people performing in the office of A&R people back in the day but you don't hear many stories like that now. They're supportive of what I do and give real insight into what working in A&R is. It's the 3rd time I've been involved in a live demo for an artist in the building. The first was for Jono McCleery which I was able to film and the second was for an act called Nuala. She was great, hoping she's doing well.
Got a message from Freddy today, sounds like he's really busy and working on some interesting stuff in Nashville. I'd keep an eye on his blog for any new tracks that appear as he's got some great tracks.
Meant to be visiting another Jujitsu club tonight but starting to feel a bit off colour. Might just head home and do some much needed chores instead. :-)
So what is everyone up to out there, anything good coming up?
Hope all is well with you.
This is the problem when you fall behind on posts.
I try to post everyday and now I've fallen behind and got too much to fit in. Will give you the reader's digest version.
Friday I went to see The Juice with a new found friend. The gig was in Angel and it took forever to get there. But I was determined not to miss this gig. I've missed them about 3 times before for various reasons so I couldn't miss it again.
On getting to Angel I realised I had on clue on how to get to the venue so we jumped in a cab. Took about five minute and he didn't charge! I mean, how often does that happen? Have you ever been in a taxi where' they've said 'This one's on me mate'? Crazyness. I think the place was called the Queen Boudica or similar.
It was packed and the gathering outside looked quite fun. Imagine Dexy's Midnight Runners with heavy eye makeup. So I was eager to see what the inside was like. Quirky and dimly lit I heard a covers band playing a Queen song. Big wigs and spandex all over the place. Got a couple of drinks in and waited for The Juice.
Jay the singer came over and said hello, hadn't seen him since the Tommy Flnn's gig. He seemed in good spirits.
They played a cracking set. It's really good to see a band who is really tight and consiting of good musicians. Really impressed with the skills of all of them. Their songs are really strong too, I would check out their Vox though i don't think it's reflective of what they can acheive live. They threw in a couple of covers to keepo the crowd happy I think and I had to leave just before the end as I didn't want to get stranded.
I spent Saturday recovering and preparing for the 2nd incarnation of my bbq. I was far better prepared this time. I got food, sorted the garden, loads of booze and even invited people this time. Had a selection of the jujitsu class turn up and drank a huge amount, plus ate a bit. Looks like I've got shopping in for the next two weeks. Got quite a bit left over.
I booked yesterday morning off to recover and wait for a washing machine to be delivered. Which never arrived. Then found out about the tube strike, dammit! Emailed ahead and asked to work from home as it was an email day. It took me 2 hours and £30 to get in this morning. Every bus drove past because it was full and the overland was a no go area. Plus there was traffic jams. You can't win in London when the Tube workers strike. They can pretty much hold the captial to ransom.
Anyway, today I was in with Phonogenic to discuss one of the Vox artists. They're interested but they need to hear more stuff so there's more work to do. Plus I've had a couple more come in today which I really like. Will post details tomorrow as this is rapidly turning into a very long post.
Time for some pie I think.
IB
