In homage to Morrissey, as he does seem to be everywhere on the (decent) music channels at the moment due to his really rather good new single, I thought I'd name this post. It does, however, sum up the way I feel at the moment. I decided to write one long essay for one of my current modules, electing to do 5000 words comparing two contemporary novel-to-television adaptations, and putting my own spin on the question by using Gormenghast and some hideous BBC (yes, dear reader, those two terms don't sit easily together in my head either) adaptation of Doyle's The Lost World. However, the problem is I really don't know where to start with it, and I'm putting my self under a lot of pressure to get it done as I've still got 3000 words on an essay that I've neither decided on, nor have much interest in, as the titles are a little dull. That's probably why I'm undecided about it come to think of it.
Anyway, I digress. The problem I seem to have got myself in is that I've got so much to write about, and so much I feel I should write about, I really don't know where to start. The only thing I'm sure of is that I need to start writing. However, paradoxically, I don't want to start writing as it's only going to confirm in me that I really don't know what my angle is yet. To make matters worse, I decided today that I should probably read the source books as well, meaning that I splashed out fifteen quid on the entire Gormenghast trilogy and have therefore created more work for myself. You see, dear reader, neurosis and fear of failure are not easy things to live with.
I'm also getting far too excited about both the launch of the new series of Who (on the 15th of this month, more on that next time) as well as my return to Devon next week for an old friend's birthday. In short, the time that I had clear to do some writing has become full with too many thoughts buzzing around my head. I hate this. I wish I could concentrate on the things that I should rather than the silliness in my head.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Worrying
A girl just came up to me after the Pub Quiz and said that they thought I looked like Chris Martin. Whilst this is better than the usual lookalike comparisons I get (Noel Edmunds, Rolf Harris), its worrying that this is the second time in two months I have been likened to Chris Martin, a man who twelve months again I viewed as an absolute arse...
We all become our parents, or those who we define ourselves against???
We all become our parents, or those who we define ourselves against???
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Other People's Houses
A strange thought came over me on the train back from Reading yesterday, and the more I've thought about it, the more it seems to be a very valid question: why do you always think that other people's houses are much nicer and better than your own? For example, when I visited Anna in Oxford, I thought her place was open and spacious, but had a more homely feel to it than our place. It had a much nicer bathroom, and a kitchen space that didn't look like the last part had been stapled on to it. In short, it was cosy and welcoming and not like some form of student place. Then, I visit Darren and Stacey in Reading, and it turns out that I'm also in admiration of their place! Sure, its a ground floor flat, but the rooms are about the size that you'd need of them for two people. It's warm, and the kitchen is big enough so that people won't fall over each other. Plus, why do other people's showers actually have some pressure to them, whereas your own is pathetic in comparison. I then followed this thought through some more and came to realise that I used to think the same thing about people's houses at Uni. For example, Chris, Darren and Beth's place always seemed more contemporary and inviting than the dark corners of Wyeverne Road. Ditto that for Jo's place, and Janine's. More strangely, Chris actually used to admit that he preferred our place at Uni to his. Bizarre! So there we are, dear readers. Great Mystery of the World #251: Why Do You Always Think Other People's Houses are Better Than Your Own?
On a different note, I recieved a bittersweet piece of information today. One of my old housemates, Yash, has been offered a job working on Wall Street in New York and will be leaving in three weeks. Naturally, I'm thrilled for the guy. He deserves it after holding out for the right type of job, and I wish him 100% success for the future. I mean, come on! New York! How ace would that be? It'll just be a shame we won't be able to see him that often, and we'll miss his easy-going, laid back humour in forthcoming get togethers. We'll miss you buddy, but just make sure you have one hell of a good time!
Cyber Control's Favoured Five to Swing Your Pants To:
I Write Sins Not Tragedies - Panic! At the Disco
Heart in a Cage - The Strokes
Stumble and Fall - Razorlight
Munich - Editors
Sussudio - Phil Collins
On a different note, I recieved a bittersweet piece of information today. One of my old housemates, Yash, has been offered a job working on Wall Street in New York and will be leaving in three weeks. Naturally, I'm thrilled for the guy. He deserves it after holding out for the right type of job, and I wish him 100% success for the future. I mean, come on! New York! How ace would that be? It'll just be a shame we won't be able to see him that often, and we'll miss his easy-going, laid back humour in forthcoming get togethers. We'll miss you buddy, but just make sure you have one hell of a good time!
Cyber Control's Favoured Five to Swing Your Pants To:
I Write Sins Not Tragedies - Panic! At the Disco
Heart in a Cage - The Strokes
Stumble and Fall - Razorlight
Munich - Editors
Sussudio - Phil Collins
Monday, March 20, 2006
Retracted Statement
In response to last nite's post, I would like to make one thing very clear: I am not a poet. No matter how hard I try, I am neither Roddy Woomble, nor Michael Stipe. Neither am I Julian Casablancas or Thom Yorke, although I do try and immitate the former of the last two in clothing. No, I am just a guy that has too much on a Sunday evening and starts scribbling ideas on the back of a piece of paper at a pub quiz, who once dreamed of fronting a band only to be denied this due to being unable to sing in tune.
However, because of this I thought I'd share with you some of my favourite song lyrics:
"Don't you think that maybe I should calm down?
I'm sick of staring at these walls, I'm gonna kick them down"
(The Seahorses, 1997)
"You broke my soul, dear
You stole the plot. You left an empty shot.
Well, there's nothing left here
As you took the lot.
An empty cage is all I got"
(Travis, 2001)
"Apathy is happy now, it won without a fight"
(The Housemartins, 1986)
"Gentleman, mark your opponents
Fire in to your own ranks.
Pick the weakest, a strategic move,
Square off to meet your enemy"
(R.E.M., 1998)
That's just a taste, I'll put some more on next time.
However, because of this I thought I'd share with you some of my favourite song lyrics:
"Don't you think that maybe I should calm down?
I'm sick of staring at these walls, I'm gonna kick them down"
(The Seahorses, 1997)
"You broke my soul, dear
You stole the plot. You left an empty shot.
Well, there's nothing left here
As you took the lot.
An empty cage is all I got"
(Travis, 2001)
"Apathy is happy now, it won without a fight"
(The Housemartins, 1986)
"Gentleman, mark your opponents
Fire in to your own ranks.
Pick the weakest, a strategic move,
Square off to meet your enemy"
(R.E.M., 1998)
That's just a taste, I'll put some more on next time.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
City of Knowledge
Dear Reader, I apologise for there being no Bronze Medal for a long time, but in all honesty things have been exceptionally hectic. I always knew March was going to be this way, a ndthings should calm down as of now. I've been filling in my PhD application recently and that's now almost done. Muchos Gracious is, once more, needed for the Man Much Greater Than I, but then again I should've known that would've been so in the first place. Anyways, I've been on my travels! It's hardly 'The Bronze Medal On Tour', but visiting Oxford has opened my eyes to the wonders of other places in Britain aside from Cardiff.
I went there to visit my good friend Anna, someone who I've grown very close to over the last few years and who I will always be eternally grateful to for the way she managed to get me to do some work towards the end of my A Levels. Following that logic, if it wasn't for her I may not be where I am at present, and hopefully from that you may realise why I always make sure I'm there to return the favour. Anyways, it was great to see her, and see the Radiohead Fan Guide to Oxford. It's the kind of tour/pilgrimage that only fans ever indulge in, taking in such exciting places as 'The Street Where They All Lived Together', 'The Park Where They Played a Really Big Gig', and 'The Restaurant Where Ed Used to Work'. Having said that, said restaurant did the best Cream Tea I've ever experienced. Seriously Dear Reader, if you're ever in Oxford, look out Brown's Restaurant and have a Cream Tea. If you're disappointed, let me know.
Oxford as a place rocks immensely. Its a place that's so beautifully designed it's hard to ignore. It's clean. It's got a wonderfully diverse array of independent coffee shops and book stores that sell things at cheap prices because they realise that everyone there wants to read and eat good cake. The buses work, and they don't cost a bomb to go ten minutes up or down the road. The people there are polite and friendly. The restaurants are good value for money, and the beer isn't too badly priced either.
The worst part was leaving. I always think it's good to leave visiting friends with a sense of melancholy as it means that although you've enjoyed yourself, you'd do a lot to have an extra half-hour in their company. You start thinking about the next time you may see that person, and make the effort to go back there. The ironic thing was that as the train pulled away from the station my iPod started with The Hollies and 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother' which, aside from the gender issues, sums up my relationship with Anna.
I'm sorry if that all sounds a little gushy, but it's testament to how much of a good trip I had. I even tried to fix someone's computer (and, yes, failed), and got described as "sensible" and "nice". I usually don't like those words, but I'm really starting recognise their value in life. I suppose it depends who speaks them really.
I went there to visit my good friend Anna, someone who I've grown very close to over the last few years and who I will always be eternally grateful to for the way she managed to get me to do some work towards the end of my A Levels. Following that logic, if it wasn't for her I may not be where I am at present, and hopefully from that you may realise why I always make sure I'm there to return the favour. Anyways, it was great to see her, and see the Radiohead Fan Guide to Oxford. It's the kind of tour/pilgrimage that only fans ever indulge in, taking in such exciting places as 'The Street Where They All Lived Together', 'The Park Where They Played a Really Big Gig', and 'The Restaurant Where Ed Used to Work'. Having said that, said restaurant did the best Cream Tea I've ever experienced. Seriously Dear Reader, if you're ever in Oxford, look out Brown's Restaurant and have a Cream Tea. If you're disappointed, let me know.
Oxford as a place rocks immensely. Its a place that's so beautifully designed it's hard to ignore. It's clean. It's got a wonderfully diverse array of independent coffee shops and book stores that sell things at cheap prices because they realise that everyone there wants to read and eat good cake. The buses work, and they don't cost a bomb to go ten minutes up or down the road. The people there are polite and friendly. The restaurants are good value for money, and the beer isn't too badly priced either.
The worst part was leaving. I always think it's good to leave visiting friends with a sense of melancholy as it means that although you've enjoyed yourself, you'd do a lot to have an extra half-hour in their company. You start thinking about the next time you may see that person, and make the effort to go back there. The ironic thing was that as the train pulled away from the station my iPod started with The Hollies and 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother' which, aside from the gender issues, sums up my relationship with Anna.
I'm sorry if that all sounds a little gushy, but it's testament to how much of a good trip I had. I even tried to fix someone's computer (and, yes, failed), and got described as "sensible" and "nice". I usually don't like those words, but I'm really starting recognise their value in life. I suppose it depends who speaks them really.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
An Absolute Moron
The following is what is commonly know as a polemic; an opportunity for my spleen to be vented, and a small portion of academic bile directed towards one Nicholas J. Cull, who has written perhaps one of the most small-minded, arrogant, and misguided piece's I have ever had the (mis)pleasure of reading. His central argument is that the whole evolution of Who is, in fact, due to the influence of American cultural (and other) pressures. This, I feel, is the most short-sighted piece of crap I have ever read, from a man who, I doubt, has seen any of the series, let alone actually studied any of the criticism or history of the programme. I would like to tear apart a few of the points he makes here. However, what follows is just a short attack on what is, in whole, a terrible argument.
1. He basically argues that the Doctor, is an embodiment of British values, and that this has to be seen in light of the increasing dominance of America as a superpower, and the decline of Britain on the global stage. Thus, the only way that Britian could come to terms with this is by having someone who tried to assert their brains over using braun.
Reply 1: OH MY GOD! Does this guy not understand that the whole point of the Doctor is that he's a character of superior interlect who comes from another planet? That he is supposed to embody the liberal position of tolerance and pacifism, and that his whole role is about assisting people and deciding what is for the greater good? This could be written as a school boy error, but the fact that he a) goes on to assert what a great character James T. Kirk is in comparison, by appealing to literary predecessors, and b) this is written by a yank, just going to show that that nation has little understanding of 'tolerance' contemporarily, is unforgivable.
2. "The second Doctor (Patrick Troughton) was not as popular as the first. Audiences detected 'stale and predictable plots'."
Reply 2: Just completely flabbergasted by this one. Firstly if Troughton was so unpopular, why does he always usually come out near the top of 'Favourite Doctor' poles? Why is he so fondly remembered as the 'Cosmic Hobo', who had a childlike innocence? As for the plots issue, this guy has obviously never heard of The Evil of the Daleks, The Enemy of the World, The Web of Fear, The Macra Terror, or Fury from the Deep. A diverse range of plots there, some developing the now classic 'base under siege' thread, some just being different completely.
3. (And this is the best one. About Star Trek: TNG): "The show had all Doctor Who's eclecticism and humour and effects were light years away from anything the BBC could produce alone".
Reply 3: Honestly, and I can feel the rage growing in me now, has this guy even seen any TNG? It's the most po-faced, boring, stuffy load of crap ever made! Humour? There's more sodding humour in a funeral, and I've just been to one. Eclecticism? What that'll be the return of the bleeding Klingons will it? Or would that be the fact that they had to nick the Cybermen to create the Borg? The only thing eclectic about it was that it had Whoopi sodding Goldberg as the barman!
I could go on, but there are some things in there that are just laughable. Congratulations, Nicholas J. Cull. You are an ABSOLUTE MORON.
1. He basically argues that the Doctor, is an embodiment of British values, and that this has to be seen in light of the increasing dominance of America as a superpower, and the decline of Britain on the global stage. Thus, the only way that Britian could come to terms with this is by having someone who tried to assert their brains over using braun.
Reply 1: OH MY GOD! Does this guy not understand that the whole point of the Doctor is that he's a character of superior interlect who comes from another planet? That he is supposed to embody the liberal position of tolerance and pacifism, and that his whole role is about assisting people and deciding what is for the greater good? This could be written as a school boy error, but the fact that he a) goes on to assert what a great character James T. Kirk is in comparison, by appealing to literary predecessors, and b) this is written by a yank, just going to show that that nation has little understanding of 'tolerance' contemporarily, is unforgivable.
2. "The second Doctor (Patrick Troughton) was not as popular as the first. Audiences detected 'stale and predictable plots'."
Reply 2: Just completely flabbergasted by this one. Firstly if Troughton was so unpopular, why does he always usually come out near the top of 'Favourite Doctor' poles? Why is he so fondly remembered as the 'Cosmic Hobo', who had a childlike innocence? As for the plots issue, this guy has obviously never heard of The Evil of the Daleks, The Enemy of the World, The Web of Fear, The Macra Terror, or Fury from the Deep. A diverse range of plots there, some developing the now classic 'base under siege' thread, some just being different completely.
3. (And this is the best one. About Star Trek: TNG): "The show had all Doctor Who's eclecticism and humour and effects were light years away from anything the BBC could produce alone".
Reply 3: Honestly, and I can feel the rage growing in me now, has this guy even seen any TNG? It's the most po-faced, boring, stuffy load of crap ever made! Humour? There's more sodding humour in a funeral, and I've just been to one. Eclecticism? What that'll be the return of the bleeding Klingons will it? Or would that be the fact that they had to nick the Cybermen to create the Borg? The only thing eclectic about it was that it had Whoopi sodding Goldberg as the barman!
I could go on, but there are some things in there that are just laughable. Congratulations, Nicholas J. Cull. You are an ABSOLUTE MORON.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Feeling Strangely Fine
I feel rather strange writing to you from where I am now for a number of reasons. Firstly, I should be at the pub quiz, but due to circumstances outside of my control that's been cancelled. The more frustrating thing is I spent a good hour yesterday afternoon compiling a list of witty team names. Yes, I was that bored but there's always problems deciding on what to call ourselves and so I thought I'd make a pre-emptive strike. My personal favourite was 'Handbags for House Plants' but there were a few other gems as well.
Secondly, I feel strange writing here at the minute as (gasp) I've done all of my work for the weekend! I've finished an essay, done a pointless PowerPoint presentation and done my seminar preperation, all with Sunday afternoon to spare. Thirdly, I went to a very strange place last night for a few drinks. It went by the name of 'Tiger Tiger', but I can think of a better word to replace the aforementioned animal with (Crap? Or maybe something a little stronger?). The place was a hodge-potch of various styles inported from Ikea, stretched across three floors, with the kind of service you'd expect in a KFC but not in some 'classy' bar. I was stood at the bar once for about ten minutes whilst some chap tried to remember how to make a cocktail, whilst at another it took about the same amount of time to get one bottle of Bud. Bejesus! It still doesn't beat Sugar as the worst place in Cardiff, nor does it beat Enigma in Newton Abbot as the definition of Hell, but it's pretty crap and over-priced. Well, at least they played a little bit of Lionel at one point. I say a little as it was one of those annoying places that only ever plays half a song.
Alright moan over, so what else we got? Not a lot really! Life seems to be moving at a pace quicker than I care to realise, and I'm not sure whether that's because I've become lost in what I'm studying, whether I'm just blissfully unaware of anything that's happening, or maybe just somewhere between the two. It's something that I've gotten used to though, a general feeling of being a little lost. It's kind of though you're stood completely still on a street whilst everyone and everything rushes past you and you try to calm them down. Much like the experience of being in Bristol Temple Meads at 8:15 in the morning.
Secondly, I feel strange writing here at the minute as (gasp) I've done all of my work for the weekend! I've finished an essay, done a pointless PowerPoint presentation and done my seminar preperation, all with Sunday afternoon to spare. Thirdly, I went to a very strange place last night for a few drinks. It went by the name of 'Tiger Tiger', but I can think of a better word to replace the aforementioned animal with (Crap? Or maybe something a little stronger?). The place was a hodge-potch of various styles inported from Ikea, stretched across three floors, with the kind of service you'd expect in a KFC but not in some 'classy' bar. I was stood at the bar once for about ten minutes whilst some chap tried to remember how to make a cocktail, whilst at another it took about the same amount of time to get one bottle of Bud. Bejesus! It still doesn't beat Sugar as the worst place in Cardiff, nor does it beat Enigma in Newton Abbot as the definition of Hell, but it's pretty crap and over-priced. Well, at least they played a little bit of Lionel at one point. I say a little as it was one of those annoying places that only ever plays half a song.
Alright moan over, so what else we got? Not a lot really! Life seems to be moving at a pace quicker than I care to realise, and I'm not sure whether that's because I've become lost in what I'm studying, whether I'm just blissfully unaware of anything that's happening, or maybe just somewhere between the two. It's something that I've gotten used to though, a general feeling of being a little lost. It's kind of though you're stood completely still on a street whilst everyone and everything rushes past you and you try to calm them down. Much like the experience of being in Bristol Temple Meads at 8:15 in the morning.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
To the Faithful Departed
From the silence comes noise.
Yes, Dear Reader, normal service has been resumed here. I apologise for the slight delay in proceedings but there's been a death in the family and I was needed elsewhere. The only thing that the last few days has served to tell me is things I already knew: that I hate funerals, that the worst thing about death is the people who get left behind, and that I don't deal particularly well with the news of Death's presence. Instead, I just seem to blank it out as much as possible until I'm faced with the actuality of the situation, and then it all comes out. All of which seems quite strange for me, since throughout my teenage years and beyond I've prided myself in writing songs that often mentioned the subejct in some form of back-handed metaphor. Perhaps the concept I think of is different from the reality of the situation? That's quite a good way to sum up my whole outlook on reality really; why bother dealing with the harshness of the real world when there are worlds of imagination that are far more interesting?
Anyways, I've been told by my folks to stop worrying, as it does no good for anyone, but I just can't escape this horrible, knawing feeling in my stomach when I think about my Gran's situation. No-one should have to be left on their own, especially during the twilight of their life. It just makes you fear the worst, that's all. What's that statement RTD once quoted with regards to narrative? "The Queen dies, then the King dies of a broken heart"? Perhaps I just need to keep repeating "Life isn't Who" in my head many times.
Talking of 'life', it was to my utmost horror that a member of one of the worst bands around (The Ordinary Boys) has turned up in the loser-hell of Celebrity Big Brother. To all those who think he's ultra-smart and all, he wrote and released an oh-so witty track last year called 'Life Will Be the Death of Me'. Ten out of ten for passing your Year 12 English exam with that one...
The Top 5 Most Played Songs on my iPod:
1. Foreigner - I Want to Know What Love Is
2. The Killers - Mr. Brightside
3. Maximo Park - Going Missing
4. Disarm - Smashing Pumpkins
5. Que Onda Guero -Beck
Yes, Dear Reader, normal service has been resumed here. I apologise for the slight delay in proceedings but there's been a death in the family and I was needed elsewhere. The only thing that the last few days has served to tell me is things I already knew: that I hate funerals, that the worst thing about death is the people who get left behind, and that I don't deal particularly well with the news of Death's presence. Instead, I just seem to blank it out as much as possible until I'm faced with the actuality of the situation, and then it all comes out. All of which seems quite strange for me, since throughout my teenage years and beyond I've prided myself in writing songs that often mentioned the subejct in some form of back-handed metaphor. Perhaps the concept I think of is different from the reality of the situation? That's quite a good way to sum up my whole outlook on reality really; why bother dealing with the harshness of the real world when there are worlds of imagination that are far more interesting?
Anyways, I've been told by my folks to stop worrying, as it does no good for anyone, but I just can't escape this horrible, knawing feeling in my stomach when I think about my Gran's situation. No-one should have to be left on their own, especially during the twilight of their life. It just makes you fear the worst, that's all. What's that statement RTD once quoted with regards to narrative? "The Queen dies, then the King dies of a broken heart"? Perhaps I just need to keep repeating "Life isn't Who" in my head many times.
Talking of 'life', it was to my utmost horror that a member of one of the worst bands around (The Ordinary Boys) has turned up in the loser-hell of Celebrity Big Brother. To all those who think he's ultra-smart and all, he wrote and released an oh-so witty track last year called 'Life Will Be the Death of Me'. Ten out of ten for passing your Year 12 English exam with that one...
The Top 5 Most Played Songs on my iPod:
1. Foreigner - I Want to Know What Love Is
2. The Killers - Mr. Brightside
3. Maximo Park - Going Missing
4. Disarm - Smashing Pumpkins
5. Que Onda Guero -Beck
Thursday, January 12, 2006
TV Times Circa 1970-Something
So then, after all that Lost petered out with more of a whimper than a bang if you ask me. I mean, how obvious was it that they'd open the hatch and then it'd end? Add in some over-sentimental recap footage over who was on the plane and it was all just a little disappointing. It was, to me, as though it had been written as two catch-up episodes for anyone who'd missed most of the series and wanted to know what was going on. I suppose that's the problems of commercial television: having to make sure that your series is always open to new viewers.
It seems to be a time for new tv at the moment. However, I'm not sure if I'm following it all correctly; I completely missed the point of Life on Mars by the sounds of things, and have also lost my excuse for watching The O.C. by not being able to shout 'Jim' at the guy who played Jim Robinson from Neighbours for an hour. It seems I'm gonna either a) have to stop watching it, or b) admit that my only reason for watching it really was the rather lovely Rachel Bilson. Then again, is there anything wrong with that? I mean the show is crap. I used to like Dawson's Creek, and I genuinely admit to that. There was something cool about all that angst and cod-philosophising. Then again, I could watch DC again now and think it's crap. Yet, in all honesty, The O.C. has neither angst nor philosophy. It just has a very hot girl and a guy who talks in an ironic manner about Star Wars.
Why has telly become so full of reality tv and rubbish so nearly in the New Year? I mean, MTV2 has even shifted Gonzo so I can't keep up with what's new. How am I supposed to keep up with all that's new and indie if there's no show on? Having said that, if the only 'decent' stuff around at the minute is that god-awful Arctic Monkey's track, then I don't really wanna know. I'll go back to something else I think... Right then, Pyramids of Mars and some old Toto CDs it is. Unless anyone else can think of something else?
"Friday Nights have been lonely. Change your plans and then phone me"
It seems to be a time for new tv at the moment. However, I'm not sure if I'm following it all correctly; I completely missed the point of Life on Mars by the sounds of things, and have also lost my excuse for watching The O.C. by not being able to shout 'Jim' at the guy who played Jim Robinson from Neighbours for an hour. It seems I'm gonna either a) have to stop watching it, or b) admit that my only reason for watching it really was the rather lovely Rachel Bilson. Then again, is there anything wrong with that? I mean the show is crap. I used to like Dawson's Creek, and I genuinely admit to that. There was something cool about all that angst and cod-philosophising. Then again, I could watch DC again now and think it's crap. Yet, in all honesty, The O.C. has neither angst nor philosophy. It just has a very hot girl and a guy who talks in an ironic manner about Star Wars.
Why has telly become so full of reality tv and rubbish so nearly in the New Year? I mean, MTV2 has even shifted Gonzo so I can't keep up with what's new. How am I supposed to keep up with all that's new and indie if there's no show on? Having said that, if the only 'decent' stuff around at the minute is that god-awful Arctic Monkey's track, then I don't really wanna know. I'll go back to something else I think... Right then, Pyramids of Mars and some old Toto CDs it is. Unless anyone else can think of something else?
"Friday Nights have been lonely. Change your plans and then phone me"
Sunday, January 08, 2006
So... That'll be Christmas Eve, then!
Just a short note to say this is the antics of what happens on a Christmas Eve in Newton Abbot. It perhaps doesn't capture the true spirit of the events but it'll hopefully serve as a good reminder of the times we had. It's just a shame they only seem to occur once a year. Nevermind, better once than never I suppose...
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Brand New Start
It's such a tired old cliche isn't it, that old "New Year, new start" nonsense? In this case however, I'm glad to see the back of 2005 what with the sorry state that my family managed to get itself into over the past twelve months. As a result, I've decided to draw a line underneath all that's gone before and try and start over this year. Already I've managed to bump into someone who I haven't seen for about a year and am gonna try my hardest not to get depressed over the sense of failure that hung over my thoughts towards my Masters that developed over the last few weeks.
Unfortunately, the lists that I promised on the last post never appeared due to the fact that I got sidelined in Devon for longer than expected. In short, the bolier breaking down (again) at home, combined with the thought of a couple of friends spending New Year alone, and a rather nasty head cold all combined to mean I took an extended leave of absense. However, a big thanks has to go out to everyone I saw whilst back, as it was an unexpected laugh. Just one note to casual readers: don't go anywhere near the Ten Tors in Kingsteignton expecting any New Year hospitality, since the greeting you'll recieve will be less than pleasent. Alright, it was about four in the morning but if lights are on and the doors are open, you have to assume they're still open! Even more so if there are still people in there drinking. Anyways, the promised lists are provided at the bottom just minus all of the explanations why.
So, we have the second series in the pipeline and what with the brilliant TCI under our belts, as well as the series garnering the 2005 TV Moment of the Year, that's something to look forward to. Oh, and of course we have the return of my good friends from Mondas. Or will that be Telos? I suppose it all depends what angle, and how much continuity, they're gonna get bogged down with. For those not in the know they originally came from Earth's twin planet, Mondas. Oh, and the wierd Elizabethan looking episode looked cool, just unsure if that was Tooth and Claw or Girl in the Fireplace. The only disappointing thing is the lack of new indie acts that seem to be tipped for the year; aside from Editors re-releasing 'Munich' there really isn't that much about. Ah well, just have to wait then!
The Bronze Medal's Films of the Year:
5. Serenity
4. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
3. 5 x 2
2. King Kong
1. The Descent
The Bronze Medal's Albums of the Year:
5. Editors - The Back Room
4. Beck - Guero
3. Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger
2. Coldplay - X&Y
1. Idlewild - Warnings/Promises
I'm sorry George, I wanted to include you but it just wasn't good enough. I mean, come on! As if the first words uttered by the most evil man in the Universe were the equivalent of "Where is my wife" ?!?
Unfortunately, the lists that I promised on the last post never appeared due to the fact that I got sidelined in Devon for longer than expected. In short, the bolier breaking down (again) at home, combined with the thought of a couple of friends spending New Year alone, and a rather nasty head cold all combined to mean I took an extended leave of absense. However, a big thanks has to go out to everyone I saw whilst back, as it was an unexpected laugh. Just one note to casual readers: don't go anywhere near the Ten Tors in Kingsteignton expecting any New Year hospitality, since the greeting you'll recieve will be less than pleasent. Alright, it was about four in the morning but if lights are on and the doors are open, you have to assume they're still open! Even more so if there are still people in there drinking. Anyways, the promised lists are provided at the bottom just minus all of the explanations why.
So, we have the second series in the pipeline and what with the brilliant TCI under our belts, as well as the series garnering the 2005 TV Moment of the Year, that's something to look forward to. Oh, and of course we have the return of my good friends from Mondas. Or will that be Telos? I suppose it all depends what angle, and how much continuity, they're gonna get bogged down with. For those not in the know they originally came from Earth's twin planet, Mondas. Oh, and the wierd Elizabethan looking episode looked cool, just unsure if that was Tooth and Claw or Girl in the Fireplace. The only disappointing thing is the lack of new indie acts that seem to be tipped for the year; aside from Editors re-releasing 'Munich' there really isn't that much about. Ah well, just have to wait then!
The Bronze Medal's Films of the Year:
5. Serenity
4. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
3. 5 x 2
2. King Kong
1. The Descent
The Bronze Medal's Albums of the Year:
5. Editors - The Back Room
4. Beck - Guero
3. Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger
2. Coldplay - X&Y
1. Idlewild - Warnings/Promises
I'm sorry George, I wanted to include you but it just wasn't good enough. I mean, come on! As if the first words uttered by the most evil man in the Universe were the equivalent of "Where is my wife" ?!?
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Lists
Well, its that time of year again. When everybody feels the overwhelming desire to return to their place of origin because some kid was born in a barn about 2000 years ago, or so that particular story goes. I suppose what I'm trying to say is that as of tomorrow I return back to Hell/Rockville/Devon for the Festive period, and so won't be able to communicate with all you people for the next few days. So in a method of trying to console yourselves, I've decided to go with all the magazines and provide a list of The Bronze Medal's Top 5 Singles of the Year. The way this should work will be that you get these now, and then I'll have made up my mind about movies and albums by the time I return home.
Anyways, I'd just like to take this opportunity to thank all the readers for, err, reading, and I'd also like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas. Alternately, if you belong to a different social group that isn't Christian, just enjoy the period. I myself, am looking forward to having some time with my folks, and getting good and drunk with my esteemed colleagues, Savage McCee and the Kingsteignton Three. Who knows, maybe we'll go one better than last year and actually get ourselves arrested!
Before we get started, tracks that narrowly missed out but deserve a mention include 'Blood' and 'Bullets' by Editors, 'So Here We Are' by Bloc Party and 'Oh My God' by Kaiser Chiefs. Oh, and yes, 'Somebody Told Me' came out this year, but it also did last year. So I'm treating it as a re-release and therefore inelidgable. Anyways, on with the list...
5. Amerie - One Thing
OK, bit of a contraversial start to things given the Indie-friendly nature of the musical opinion usually expressed here, but this was a damn fine pop song. Up there with something like Girls Aloud's 'Love Machine' in it's sheer 'wanting you to move your feet'-ness, its a well produced, catchy little number that lodged its place in your head and refused to let go. For once though, it was a track that you actually didn't mind being there.
4. Fix You - Coldplay
Sometimes songs are written and they accrue the status of classic straight away. This has to be one such example. Perhaps it pulls at the heartstrings in a rather cliched way, but it entered into my life at a time when I needed a track such as this. When that guitar part and the drums crash in, it turns up the euphoria levels far beyond anything they've ever done before, only to bring things down again for the intimate finish the song deserves. All that, and it's Coldplay. A band who, prior to this year, were synonomous with simplistic, unambitious boredom in my opinion. You see, things can change...
3. 22 Grand Job - The Rakes
A song, and a band, that seem to completely divide opinion amongst many of the people I know. It seems you either love or hate this lot. However, I don't think anyone has managed to capture the whiney, pathetic nature of status anxiety in such an exact way. Worried about the lighting in your office? Or the amount you earn in relation to your level of participation? Or the fact that your shift starts earlier than anyone else? If the answer to any of these is 'yes' then just have a listen, and within 90 seconds I hope you'll have learnt a few things about yourself. Top.
2. Wires - Athlete
It seems as though beautiful ballads seem to come along once a year. 2004 brought us the soaring beauty of Snow Patrol's 'Run', which was matched equally, and unexpectedly, by this offering from Athlete. Written about the premature birth of singer Conrad's daughter, it's the kind of song that anyone who's had the displeasure of frequenting themselves with hospitals can relate to. More than that though, it's a song of hope and optimism. In a time when these can be small, it subsequently deserves applause. All we need is the highlights of Season Two of Who put to this next year and its status shall be complete.
1. Apply Some Pressure - Maximo Park
In all honesty, it was hard not to put 'Going Missing' and 'Graffiti' in this list, but in limiting yourself to one track per artist some differentiation had to be made, and this absolute gem became the weapon of choice. Spiky, energetic, and containing the kind of spontaneous end to a song that makes you want to hit repeat on your CD player, it managed to combine a great guitar riff with some intriguing, carnival-esque keyboard. However, it was much more than that: starting by managing to map out the kind of random thoughts that run through my head twenty-four hours a day, it eventually built in to a chugging, harmonic exploration of loss and despair, before exploding in to that final, killer flurry. Triumphant without a doubt.
Anyways, I'd just like to take this opportunity to thank all the readers for, err, reading, and I'd also like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas. Alternately, if you belong to a different social group that isn't Christian, just enjoy the period. I myself, am looking forward to having some time with my folks, and getting good and drunk with my esteemed colleagues, Savage McCee and the Kingsteignton Three. Who knows, maybe we'll go one better than last year and actually get ourselves arrested!
Before we get started, tracks that narrowly missed out but deserve a mention include 'Blood' and 'Bullets' by Editors, 'So Here We Are' by Bloc Party and 'Oh My God' by Kaiser Chiefs. Oh, and yes, 'Somebody Told Me' came out this year, but it also did last year. So I'm treating it as a re-release and therefore inelidgable. Anyways, on with the list...
5. Amerie - One Thing
OK, bit of a contraversial start to things given the Indie-friendly nature of the musical opinion usually expressed here, but this was a damn fine pop song. Up there with something like Girls Aloud's 'Love Machine' in it's sheer 'wanting you to move your feet'-ness, its a well produced, catchy little number that lodged its place in your head and refused to let go. For once though, it was a track that you actually didn't mind being there.
4. Fix You - Coldplay
Sometimes songs are written and they accrue the status of classic straight away. This has to be one such example. Perhaps it pulls at the heartstrings in a rather cliched way, but it entered into my life at a time when I needed a track such as this. When that guitar part and the drums crash in, it turns up the euphoria levels far beyond anything they've ever done before, only to bring things down again for the intimate finish the song deserves. All that, and it's Coldplay. A band who, prior to this year, were synonomous with simplistic, unambitious boredom in my opinion. You see, things can change...
3. 22 Grand Job - The Rakes
A song, and a band, that seem to completely divide opinion amongst many of the people I know. It seems you either love or hate this lot. However, I don't think anyone has managed to capture the whiney, pathetic nature of status anxiety in such an exact way. Worried about the lighting in your office? Or the amount you earn in relation to your level of participation? Or the fact that your shift starts earlier than anyone else? If the answer to any of these is 'yes' then just have a listen, and within 90 seconds I hope you'll have learnt a few things about yourself. Top.
2. Wires - Athlete
It seems as though beautiful ballads seem to come along once a year. 2004 brought us the soaring beauty of Snow Patrol's 'Run', which was matched equally, and unexpectedly, by this offering from Athlete. Written about the premature birth of singer Conrad's daughter, it's the kind of song that anyone who's had the displeasure of frequenting themselves with hospitals can relate to. More than that though, it's a song of hope and optimism. In a time when these can be small, it subsequently deserves applause. All we need is the highlights of Season Two of Who put to this next year and its status shall be complete.
1. Apply Some Pressure - Maximo Park
In all honesty, it was hard not to put 'Going Missing' and 'Graffiti' in this list, but in limiting yourself to one track per artist some differentiation had to be made, and this absolute gem became the weapon of choice. Spiky, energetic, and containing the kind of spontaneous end to a song that makes you want to hit repeat on your CD player, it managed to combine a great guitar riff with some intriguing, carnival-esque keyboard. However, it was much more than that: starting by managing to map out the kind of random thoughts that run through my head twenty-four hours a day, it eventually built in to a chugging, harmonic exploration of loss and despair, before exploding in to that final, killer flurry. Triumphant without a doubt.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
The Best
(Left to Right: Head of Wood, Cyber Control, Colonel K, Lady Elizabeth, "Hot" Rod Chrisway)
(Left to Right: Captain Yash, Major Tom)
(The D.A.Z. - Looking a little camp)
"Pussy Cat, Pussy Cat. Where have you been?"
Right, first of all, I'm not a cat, but in answer to your question I've been all over the shop. Both mentally and physically. First of all, there was a birthday for Yours Truly. Unfortunately it came just at one of those moments when your base falters a little and you have a shift in confidence. I'm still feeling bad about getting drunk and having a good old whinge about Life, the Universe and Everything. I don't like myself when I get like that, and I feel especially bad when it happens around the people that I value the most and yet haven't seen for bloody ages. Nonetheless, it was amazing to see everyone again, and I strongly hope we can all get together more often than we do. Just a shame that everyone ended up feeling lousy on the Sunday and the boiler broke down. Mental note to self though, after having fulfilled one of life's ambitions and slept in a bath, I wouldn't recommend it again. It's like sleeping in a slightly moist coffin.
Aside from that I've been to Londondinium to watch The Rakes, who were very good, and Editors, who were the most exciting live band I've seen in a long time. This all coincided with seeing Franz Ferdinand as well, who were pretty good if you like that sort of thing. Then I got fed up of living in a cold house, and so went back to see the Folks for a weekend, which was a nice way to let off a bit of steam and talk a few things over. Me, talking to my folks! I never thought that day would come. If you add in the numerous trips between here and Bristol I've been making, it could be said that I'm currently a well travelled man. All that and the great news that an old friend is moving back this way in the New Year! It must be the lure of seeing David Tennant in the flesh. Still, reasons to be cheerful!
Finally though, a big thanks to everyone that was present on the weekend of the 26/11. Without a doubt, those were the winning days....
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
On Having Nothing Much to Say
"People when they change their minds, it's a tell-tale sign
That they don't know what to talk about" (The Bluetones, 1996)
I'm writing this as I've been prompted by a fan (yes, we do have one) to write an update. However, the problem is I've really got very little to report about. You can interpret that in two ways: either I've got into tunnel vision in respect to writing about public service broadcasting and so can't think about anything, or, my life is that dull that the only thing I can think about is public service broadcasting. Focused or dull? The choice is yours, dear reader. Obviously I'd prefer if you sided with the former, as no-one likes having their worst fears confirmed.
I should, however, have lots to comment on. Firstly, there was the special Who for CiN, which was pretty good. Now some fans have reservations over extended TARDIS scenes - personally speaking I don't know why - but that's fandom for you. Anyways, despite being a bit underwhelmed after first viewing (there were a couple of really bad cuts within the editing), further viewings changed my opinion: I thought Billie was ace (as per usual) and Tennant was equally as good. It was good to see that he's still got the same intensity that Eccleston brought to the role (i.e. the scene when he was explaining to Rose about the first time they met) but I think he'll do the quirky humour a bit differently, perhaps more in the style of Tom. That, however, is in no way a slur against Chris though. I've been a fan ever since Shallow Grave of the man's talents and will miss him not occupying the role.
Secondly, I went to the switching on of the Christmas lights in Cardiff last week, with Tennant and Billie. It was a pretty good time really. Cold, and there were loads of screaming kids running around the place, but aside from that it was good. Learnt some interesting things about the forthcoming series (sinister Christmas Trees, werewolves) and the company was good, as were the fireworks actually.
Hmm, this seems wierd writing when there's nothing to write about. Instead it just turns into an extended version of those diaries you always had to write on a Monday morning at primary school. I've not even got anything profound to talk about, nor are there any tracks I feel the need to promote. I was in a shop the other day that was dreadful, but I stayed in there for a while as they were playing Maximo Park. Not really that exciting is it?
"Time moves on, but all along, we've always known
It's never going nowhere" (The Bluetones, 2003)
That they don't know what to talk about" (The Bluetones, 1996)
I'm writing this as I've been prompted by a fan (yes, we do have one) to write an update. However, the problem is I've really got very little to report about. You can interpret that in two ways: either I've got into tunnel vision in respect to writing about public service broadcasting and so can't think about anything, or, my life is that dull that the only thing I can think about is public service broadcasting. Focused or dull? The choice is yours, dear reader. Obviously I'd prefer if you sided with the former, as no-one likes having their worst fears confirmed.
I should, however, have lots to comment on. Firstly, there was the special Who for CiN, which was pretty good. Now some fans have reservations over extended TARDIS scenes - personally speaking I don't know why - but that's fandom for you. Anyways, despite being a bit underwhelmed after first viewing (there were a couple of really bad cuts within the editing), further viewings changed my opinion: I thought Billie was ace (as per usual) and Tennant was equally as good. It was good to see that he's still got the same intensity that Eccleston brought to the role (i.e. the scene when he was explaining to Rose about the first time they met) but I think he'll do the quirky humour a bit differently, perhaps more in the style of Tom. That, however, is in no way a slur against Chris though. I've been a fan ever since Shallow Grave of the man's talents and will miss him not occupying the role.
Secondly, I went to the switching on of the Christmas lights in Cardiff last week, with Tennant and Billie. It was a pretty good time really. Cold, and there were loads of screaming kids running around the place, but aside from that it was good. Learnt some interesting things about the forthcoming series (sinister Christmas Trees, werewolves) and the company was good, as were the fireworks actually.
Hmm, this seems wierd writing when there's nothing to write about. Instead it just turns into an extended version of those diaries you always had to write on a Monday morning at primary school. I've not even got anything profound to talk about, nor are there any tracks I feel the need to promote. I was in a shop the other day that was dreadful, but I stayed in there for a while as they were playing Maximo Park. Not really that exciting is it?
"Time moves on, but all along, we've always known
It's never going nowhere" (The Bluetones, 2003)
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Square One
What a strange day. I awoke this morning feeling quite melancholic, and that feeling hung around for most of the morning and some of the afternoon. The afternoon was plagued with disappointment: my mission Dalek-hunting was pitiful, and I left the city centre with my reasons for not visiting the place on a Saturday reaffirmed. Why do people stand still in shops, blocking any public right-of-way, for the sake of a chat? That's the point of the phrase 'Do you want to go for a coffee'. Moreover, why can't people walk according to set co-ordinates? That is, why can't they walk in a straight line, or a line that takes in to account that there's someone either walking behind/in front of them? And then there's kids, who have the directional sense of Dizzy, Dizzy Dinosaur.
Sorry, dear reader, I'm having a moan. I just sometimes get a little fed-up with the way that humanity has little attention to the fact that there are more people on the planet than just themselves. It doesn't take much to consider the feelings of another person, and that just the odd choice of word here, or delivery of that word there, might change the whole course of the recipient's day for one reason or another. Having said that, and speaking subjectively, if you spend too much time thinking about the possible repercussion of your actions you often end up doing nothing, as you don't want to offend. That's what makes things even worse when you decide to act and get nothing in return: it reaffirms a belief that you should probably just keep such things to yourself because, in the grand scheme of things, you don't really matter that much.
Gah, self-pity! It's not the most attractive character traits. Perhaps I'll just take Coldplay's X&Y and listen to that for a little while. After all, I'm stuck in square one. The strange thing is all this subsided once Exeter had returned back to the top of the Conference, and after a suprisingly engaging England friendly. Seems that temporary fixes can account for nothing against a general feeling of confusion and being a little bit lost.
DWM reports (proudly for some reason) that the Best of Billie has gone Gold already. There's a reason for this dear reader: its been on sale in HMV for a fiver, and I bet somewhere people are buying it for Who fans nationwide as a 'joke' Christmas present, much in the way you always get a pair of Darth Vader socks or the equivalent. Ah, consumerism: "I am defined by the media I consume, and consumed by the media of which I am defined."
You can quote me on that one if you like.
Sorry, dear reader, I'm having a moan. I just sometimes get a little fed-up with the way that humanity has little attention to the fact that there are more people on the planet than just themselves. It doesn't take much to consider the feelings of another person, and that just the odd choice of word here, or delivery of that word there, might change the whole course of the recipient's day for one reason or another. Having said that, and speaking subjectively, if you spend too much time thinking about the possible repercussion of your actions you often end up doing nothing, as you don't want to offend. That's what makes things even worse when you decide to act and get nothing in return: it reaffirms a belief that you should probably just keep such things to yourself because, in the grand scheme of things, you don't really matter that much.
Gah, self-pity! It's not the most attractive character traits. Perhaps I'll just take Coldplay's X&Y and listen to that for a little while. After all, I'm stuck in square one. The strange thing is all this subsided once Exeter had returned back to the top of the Conference, and after a suprisingly engaging England friendly. Seems that temporary fixes can account for nothing against a general feeling of confusion and being a little bit lost.
DWM reports (proudly for some reason) that the Best of Billie has gone Gold already. There's a reason for this dear reader: its been on sale in HMV for a fiver, and I bet somewhere people are buying it for Who fans nationwide as a 'joke' Christmas present, much in the way you always get a pair of Darth Vader socks or the equivalent. Ah, consumerism: "I am defined by the media I consume, and consumed by the media of which I am defined."
You can quote me on that one if you like.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
The End of One Quest, the Start of Another...
Someone of great historical importance once remarked that it's a strange world out there; on recent evidence I'd agree with that. Today, I sat for an hour in a lecture that had absolutely no relevance to me whatsoever, but it did inspire me to thinking about the kind of film I would make if I had to make a film for my dissertation. More on that later. After a brief, and pleasent, conversation with a Lady with Immensley Cool Shoes, I proceeded to sit in the library and stare out the window for two hours and think. To make matters worse, I spent the whole two hours humming Owen Paul's 80s classic My Favourite Waste of Time. Eventually, said track mixed with Mylo's Drop the Pressure, to cause some strange 80s dance hybrid, and that was it! Absolutely nothing to do with the future of public service broadcasting, but a new dance song, and some musings concerning The Failures of Man.
Another strange occurance I've noticed recently: I have four versions of R.E.M's Pretty Persuasion on my computer. I'm not complaining, as personally I love the track. It's a great example of one of Michael's offbeat lyrical melody with some classic Buck guitar jangling in the background. I just would've thought that I'd have noticed by the fourth time...
So I finally tracked down some Idlewild bootlegs, and whilst they haven't appeared in the post yet, I'm anticipating their arrival. The next quest, well that may be a bit more difficult. I may actually discuss The Failures of Man with some filmy people to see what they think. Basically speaking, the piece is three short stories about the failures of men who are white, middle-class, rubbish and over-eager to impress in one way or another, which eventually leads to them becoming parodies of actual humans. One is about status anxiety. One is about loneliness. One is about being into 'extreme sports'. The first ends up living in the canteen. The second gets wallpapered to the office walls. The third with some strange, and embarrasing, bodily functions.
Just realised the time. I'm going to get Lost, and then maybe get found, or maybe, just maybe swallowed in the sea...
Another strange occurance I've noticed recently: I have four versions of R.E.M's Pretty Persuasion on my computer. I'm not complaining, as personally I love the track. It's a great example of one of Michael's offbeat lyrical melody with some classic Buck guitar jangling in the background. I just would've thought that I'd have noticed by the fourth time...
So I finally tracked down some Idlewild bootlegs, and whilst they haven't appeared in the post yet, I'm anticipating their arrival. The next quest, well that may be a bit more difficult. I may actually discuss The Failures of Man with some filmy people to see what they think. Basically speaking, the piece is three short stories about the failures of men who are white, middle-class, rubbish and over-eager to impress in one way or another, which eventually leads to them becoming parodies of actual humans. One is about status anxiety. One is about loneliness. One is about being into 'extreme sports'. The first ends up living in the canteen. The second gets wallpapered to the office walls. The third with some strange, and embarrasing, bodily functions.
Just realised the time. I'm going to get Lost, and then maybe get found, or maybe, just maybe swallowed in the sea...
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
In the Words of Andy Warhol
"In the future, everyone will be famous for five minutes"
OK, maybe I'm being a bit over-the-top about this, but its not very often I get a brush with celebrity, and when you yourself end up involved its doubly rewarding. 'What the hell am I going on about?', I hear you asking, dear reader! Well, on Saturday, I went to the book signing to meet Russell T Davies, and it was absolutely fantastic! He's a really great bloke, and comes across just the way he does in Doctor Who Confidential or in interviews, really approachable and easy to talk to. I had a bit of a chat with him, asking for some tips surrounding my own writing and complementing him both on the success at the NTAs and for the fantastic scene at the end of Bad Wolf. Also met a couple of other fans, friends of a Man Much Greater Than I, who were really sound and took a lot of photos of what was going on. The wierdest thing though is that the South Wales Echo were doing interviews with fans outside of Waterstones, and ended up running with my interview! Subsequently, yesterday there was a big photo of me in my Tom Baker hat, holding the book, in the newspaper. Plus they didn't make me sound like an idiot, which is always a good thing. As a result, I kind of feel like the local celebrity fan! It'll pass. No one has asked for my autograph, nor hurled abuse at me in the street, so I'm not quite at the level of Charlotte Church yet.
In all honesty, I think the only people who read the Echo are either in their eighties, or not the type of people into Doctor Who, but its cool to be mentioned in the same piece as RTD though! I gotta say, I loved how Waterstones put a Dalek in amongst all of the books in the shop, as I thought it looked really good. Got me thinking about how you could turn that in to a story: perhaps you could have a library somewhere being run by the Daleks, or maybe you could just have a Dalek patrolling the dark corridors of a library, exterminating anyone who got near to some secret store of knowledge that was threatening to their race. Something like that anyways.
Away from the world of Who, there's not really that much going on. I've got an essay to write, and I decided not write it about Who. I thought I'd start on the right foot as I'm gonna write two others about it at present. Had to take a seminar yesterday, which was pretty cool if you discount the fact that only about two people spoke in my group. Nevermind, it was a good experience nonetheless.
Did you know there are two pieces of academic writing based around Phil Collins?
CyberControl's Five from the Past:
Super Furry Animals - Hometown Unicorn
Gene - Where Are They Now?
Genesis - Turn It On Again
Placebo - Scared of Girls
Blameless - Signs...
Friday, October 28, 2005
A Bit of BBC, If You Please
Right, I think it's time we called for a bit of standards on the comments page attatched to here. After all how old are we all? Surely far to old to be descending in to silly comments of 'And your mum' when we can't think of anything clever to say. So from now on, we'll have less of that. It's juvenile and silly. Although having said that, I can't help but recall a trip to Tesco with an old housemate's mum. Oh, that was funny! The people involved know who they are...
Anyways, in mentions of all things BBC, I'm going to meet Russell T Davies at a book signing tomorrow. I'm quite nervous about it, but quite excited at the same time. I bet I say something stupid to him; I'm currently replaying the whole of Robot in my head for some reason, and the words 'Think Tank' keep appearing in my subconscious. Don't worry though, it's nothing to do with a Blur album. Have decided I'm gonna wear my Tom Baker hat though. Oh, and whilst we're on the subject of our good Time Lord, can I just mention the three National Television Awards picked up mid-week. Well deserved by all the recipients and to claim them in ITV's backyard as well? Stunning.
Anyways, in mentions of all things BBC, I'm going to meet Russell T Davies at a book signing tomorrow. I'm quite nervous about it, but quite excited at the same time. I bet I say something stupid to him; I'm currently replaying the whole of Robot in my head for some reason, and the words 'Think Tank' keep appearing in my subconscious. Don't worry though, it's nothing to do with a Blur album. Have decided I'm gonna wear my Tom Baker hat though. Oh, and whilst we're on the subject of our good Time Lord, can I just mention the three National Television Awards picked up mid-week. Well deserved by all the recipients and to claim them in ITV's backyard as well? Stunning.
Friday, October 21, 2005
Am I Pretentious?
God, its been an age since I last posted anything here. Fear not though dear reader, we haven't all jumped ship; think of it more as a fallow period due to adjusting to a new routine of life. I've now started my Masters and things are going alright. At least I think so, I feel as though I'm gradually going through the gears work-wise, and it'll still be a couple of weeks until I get back up to full speed. Anyways, the course is about what I was expecting, which is a good thing, and the travelling is pretty good as well. That may all change when essays and deadlines start to appear, but until then, we're fine. My tutor seems really cool as well, which is always pretty handy, although I think I ask him too many (probably obvious) questions. Will still though have to try and remember not to make everything I write about be based around either Who, Battlestar Galactica or something similar. After all, I am studying television and not just sci-fi television.
However, over the last couple of days its come to my attention that both of my housemates think I'm pretentious. Quite frankly, I'm astounded! The grounds for these accusations are as follows: I use big words and make overtly long sentences, I eat posh food and I make them feel inferior some times. There were other reasons, but for the moment they elude me. Anyways, for now I want to tackle these issues individually:
1) On using big words and long sentences: I just feel that if you've got a certain amount of substance to your brain, why not use it? I think this taps in to my deep-rooted hate of being viewed as stupid, something that I was made to feel for the majority of last year with my (terrible) job, and subsequently I may have reacted against that. Additionally, I spent most of the time I was in Sixth Form having to play dumb to a few people, and so didn't want to do that anymore. If that offends, then I'm sorry, but I just happen to like big words.
2) On liking decent food: what the hell is wrong with that? I mean, you hear so many stories about the rubish that's in the food you buy that I feel that in buying decent food I'm not eating as much regurgitated chicken head as other people. Granted, all I'm probably doing is eating the same amount of regurgitated chicken head as anyone else, just in better packaging. However, in my head it counts for something. Anyways, I still buy a lot of Value produce, I just happen to like fresh bread! As for ready meals, I still eat them. However, when you spent three years living with someone that constantly told you that you could make the same yourself for cheaper, and it'd taste nicer, it kind of took hold. Subsequently, I now agree with that sentiment. Moreover, what's wrong with reading the Observer Food Monthly?
3) On making people feel inferior: err, I don't know what to say to that, suffice to say that I wasn't aware I did, and if I do I'm sorry. I never mean to make people feel that way. Granted, I don't suffer fools easily, and I do tend to put up a lot of barriers before I let people in, but that's just due to past experiences. If you're too open you just get taken for a ride, and so the second (or should that be fifth?) time around, you're a bit more cautious. I don't think that's grounds for being pretentious!
Cyber Control's (pretentious) Top 5:
Maximo Park - Apply Some Pressure
The Cooper Temple Clause - The Same Mistakes
The Rakes - 22 Grand Job
Headswim - Better Made
Elbow - Snowball
However, over the last couple of days its come to my attention that both of my housemates think I'm pretentious. Quite frankly, I'm astounded! The grounds for these accusations are as follows: I use big words and make overtly long sentences, I eat posh food and I make them feel inferior some times. There were other reasons, but for the moment they elude me. Anyways, for now I want to tackle these issues individually:
1) On using big words and long sentences: I just feel that if you've got a certain amount of substance to your brain, why not use it? I think this taps in to my deep-rooted hate of being viewed as stupid, something that I was made to feel for the majority of last year with my (terrible) job, and subsequently I may have reacted against that. Additionally, I spent most of the time I was in Sixth Form having to play dumb to a few people, and so didn't want to do that anymore. If that offends, then I'm sorry, but I just happen to like big words.
2) On liking decent food: what the hell is wrong with that? I mean, you hear so many stories about the rubish that's in the food you buy that I feel that in buying decent food I'm not eating as much regurgitated chicken head as other people. Granted, all I'm probably doing is eating the same amount of regurgitated chicken head as anyone else, just in better packaging. However, in my head it counts for something. Anyways, I still buy a lot of Value produce, I just happen to like fresh bread! As for ready meals, I still eat them. However, when you spent three years living with someone that constantly told you that you could make the same yourself for cheaper, and it'd taste nicer, it kind of took hold. Subsequently, I now agree with that sentiment. Moreover, what's wrong with reading the Observer Food Monthly?
3) On making people feel inferior: err, I don't know what to say to that, suffice to say that I wasn't aware I did, and if I do I'm sorry. I never mean to make people feel that way. Granted, I don't suffer fools easily, and I do tend to put up a lot of barriers before I let people in, but that's just due to past experiences. If you're too open you just get taken for a ride, and so the second (or should that be fifth?) time around, you're a bit more cautious. I don't think that's grounds for being pretentious!
Cyber Control's (pretentious) Top 5:
Maximo Park - Apply Some Pressure
The Cooper Temple Clause - The Same Mistakes
The Rakes - 22 Grand Job
Headswim - Better Made
Elbow - Snowball
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
A Minor Issue
I keep getting this knawing, sick feeling in my stomach at the moment, and I don't know why it is. It feels like your gut aches, and then the damn thing keeps making embarassing noises. I wouldn't mind if I knew it was alcohol related, but I know that it isn't. If any reading has any idea basic medical reasoning as to why this is, I'd be most grateful.
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