Showing posts with label Biffy Clyro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Biffy Clyro. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Video: Meeting Mike Vennart @ Biffy Clyro+o'Brother 4/4/17 @ Turf Club
Some comments and a review of Biffy Clyro and o'Brother from last night at The Turf Club.
Great show as I mentioned there.
And I was very happy to finally meet in person Mike Vennart of Vennart/British Theatre and formerly Oceansize.
He's a really cool, down-to-earth guy, and it seems he's happy/happier with this gig with Biffy while still being able to make his own music.
He mentioned Biffy may be coming back in the next few months too, which i hope to see them and him again.
Sunday, December 4, 2016
Video: Kevin Gilbert, The Beach Boys, Warpaint, Biffy
Music collection update. 11+ mins, etc.
More videos to come soon...
Biffy Clyro - Only Revolutions (CD)
Kevin Gilbert - The Shaming of the True (CD, Black Version)
Warpaint - Heads Up (Vinyl)
The Beach Boys - The Smile Sessions (Boxed Set, Vinyl+CD)
More videos to come soon...
Biffy Clyro - Only Revolutions (CD)
Kevin Gilbert - The Shaming of the True (CD, Black Version)
Warpaint - Heads Up (Vinyl)
The Beach Boys - The Smile Sessions (Boxed Set, Vinyl+CD)
Friday, October 14, 2016
REVERE - Rest in Peace
So British Band Revere have finally called it a day.
They sent me a package with some stuff from their last campaign which included a signed Setlist from a concert in 2015, and then a signed copy of their latest release, Man of Atom.
And for that I want to thank Revere for sure.
Stephen Ellis specifically as he included a nice note, thanking me in the package.
(I'll try and show it on YouTube hopefully soon)
This news of their ending while is sad, I guess I can't be highly surprised by save for the fact they've been a band for so many years (15) and yet have always been particular on how often and what they release. But many of their peers retired long before them (Pure Reason Revolution, Oceansize namely), so it was odd how they managed to stay afloat longer. I suppose a band like Archive or Biffy Clyro still are thankfully, although at least with Biffy, they did gain a large following in recent years, so that makes some sense.
I guess I've grown to see them as a live band who only recorded material when it was fully ready to record (and they had the funds of course). Why they have a limited body of work, even though they were a band for 15 years. 4 EP's, many singles and 2 full-lengths.
But their full-length albums, Hey! Selim and My Mirror / Your Target I enjoy both certainly. Their style of chamber/baroque pop/rock I always have liked and thought of with some of the other artists in the last 10-15 years using that kind of instrumentation and approach to creating music.
It is a little sad that I never got to see them live, but they are from across the pond, and while they seemed to gain a following over there, the US and North America, it was mostly blogs like my own here that found them on their radar.
So the story goes.
Hopefully the members will have future musical work to check out down the line, but until then, we do have a new video off Man of Atom, "Sonder" done by Ryan Pearce aka Man of Atom
to check out.
Revere's Homepage
It
is with a heavy heart that we announce our decision for REVERE to call
it a day. After more than 15 years together, and as many lineup changes,
we feel the time has come for us to focus on other musical projects.
We feel immensely proud of what we've achieved in more than 15 years together as a band, leaving behind two albums, a handful of EPs and a large collection of singles. This has also been done without any major support from a record label (although we must give shoutouts to Albino, Gift Of The Gab and V2). We were often asked why we were still together and the truth was that we just enjoyed writing and playing music together. We felt that what we were doing was a little bit different and exciting and enough of you agreed with us to keep us going. Thank you for that! Your support has meant everything to us!
Behind the scenes, we especially want to thank Dave Jewerén Moore whose brilliant production skills and endless patience helped mould us into the band we eventually became. Also Ryan Pearce, whose visuals and music videos added further layers of meaning and excitement to our live shows. It is fitting that our last video, for Sonder, was also made by Ryan and is a video we are especially proud of.
We feel immensely proud of what we've achieved in more than 15 years together as a band, leaving behind two albums, a handful of EPs and a large collection of singles. This has also been done without any major support from a record label (although we must give shoutouts to Albino, Gift Of The Gab and V2). We were often asked why we were still together and the truth was that we just enjoyed writing and playing music together. We felt that what we were doing was a little bit different and exciting and enough of you agreed with us to keep us going. Thank you for that! Your support has meant everything to us!
Behind the scenes, we especially want to thank Dave Jewerén Moore whose brilliant production skills and endless patience helped mould us into the band we eventually became. Also Ryan Pearce, whose visuals and music videos added further layers of meaning and excitement to our live shows. It is fitting that our last video, for Sonder, was also made by Ryan and is a video we are especially proud of.
Friday, May 6, 2016
British Theatre - Mastery (2015-2016)
5/6/16 7:17AM
On bandcamp now.
Early impression: I naturally like a lot of this album. It kind of reminds me of the early OSI at points, with Vennart and Gambler's stamp on it. And it also not surprisingly sounds like some of the electronic side of Oceansize. Everyone Into Position and Home and Minor.
1. Blue Horror 05:01
2. The Cull 04:22
3. Dinosaur 03:39
4. The Coldest Of Shoulders 02:37
5. Capra 05:30
6. Newman 05:21
7. Cross The Swords 03:34
8. Gold Bruise 04:33
9. Thunderlips 02:20
10. Favour The Brave 04:28
11. Mastery 06:39
4/29/16 6:34AM
ALBUM STREAM
Of course I received an email with a download link per my Preorder (so if you did, you also can just do that).
Hopefully later today at work I'll be able to check this out. Big hopes!
1/27/16 6:17AM
"Mastery" drops on April 29th
Article which includes stream of "Newman"
(and also comes with the preorder).
This sounds darker and almost industrial. From that article and Mike Vennart's blog (linked/copied and pasted below), it sounds like the stuff on this album may differ in some ways from the 2 EPs from a few years ago, which very well could be all for the better.
Mike Vennart's Blog Post
Applaud the mastery
January 2016
Hello and happy new year
I’m proud to announce the imminent arrival of the British Theatre record.
Gambler and myself started this band (i don’t like to use the word ‘project’) in the immediate aftermath of the breakup of the old band. We didn’t really know what we wanted to do, we were just happy that we were free to do it.
We released a couple of EPs in 2012, which, in hindsight, are clear exercises in self-discovery. You can kind of hear the conflict. In ‘Defeat Skeletons’ and ‘As The Leaves Are To The Limbs’ you can hear i’m longing to be in a band again. In the rest of the repertoire, you can hear that Gambler has other ideas. Consequently, it didn’t really work. But it was necessary.
The same happy obstacles that prevented any work on the ‘The Demon Joke’ were also in effect here, but tenfold. This was an album that i didn’t know what to do with.
After the two-year Biffy Clyro ‘Opposites’ tour, we reconvened, and looked at the material we wrote prior to the tour. Most of it didn’t measure up. We pretty much started all over again. We booked the Arctangent Festival to give us an enforced deadline.
This was a record that made me scared. I found it intimidating, out of my comfort zone and uneasy.
….all of which is why I love this record so much.
It’ll be available to pre-order on Pledge Music this week.
MV x
1/26/16 2:15PM
Stoked. More later probably, and I have to wait to put my order in at a non-public location (I'm at lunch right now).
But this record I could certainly foresee being awesome. Maybe as good if not better than The Demon Joke.
Download comes with a preorder.
Pledgemusic / PREORDER
On bandcamp now.
Early impression: I naturally like a lot of this album. It kind of reminds me of the early OSI at points, with Vennart and Gambler's stamp on it. And it also not surprisingly sounds like some of the electronic side of Oceansize. Everyone Into Position and Home and Minor.
1. Blue Horror 05:01
2. The Cull 04:22
3. Dinosaur 03:39
4. The Coldest Of Shoulders 02:37
5. Capra 05:30
6. Newman 05:21
7. Cross The Swords 03:34
8. Gold Bruise 04:33
9. Thunderlips 02:20
10. Favour The Brave 04:28
11. Mastery 06:39
4/29/16 6:34AM
ALBUM STREAM
Of course I received an email with a download link per my Preorder (so if you did, you also can just do that).
Hopefully later today at work I'll be able to check this out. Big hopes!
1/27/16 6:17AM
"Mastery" drops on April 29th
Article which includes stream of "Newman"
(and also comes with the preorder).
This sounds darker and almost industrial. From that article and Mike Vennart's blog (linked/copied and pasted below), it sounds like the stuff on this album may differ in some ways from the 2 EPs from a few years ago, which very well could be all for the better.
Mike Vennart's Blog Post
Applaud the mastery
January 2016
Hello and happy new year
I’m proud to announce the imminent arrival of the British Theatre record.
Gambler and myself started this band (i don’t like to use the word ‘project’) in the immediate aftermath of the breakup of the old band. We didn’t really know what we wanted to do, we were just happy that we were free to do it.
We released a couple of EPs in 2012, which, in hindsight, are clear exercises in self-discovery. You can kind of hear the conflict. In ‘Defeat Skeletons’ and ‘As The Leaves Are To The Limbs’ you can hear i’m longing to be in a band again. In the rest of the repertoire, you can hear that Gambler has other ideas. Consequently, it didn’t really work. But it was necessary.
The same happy obstacles that prevented any work on the ‘The Demon Joke’ were also in effect here, but tenfold. This was an album that i didn’t know what to do with.
After the two-year Biffy Clyro ‘Opposites’ tour, we reconvened, and looked at the material we wrote prior to the tour. Most of it didn’t measure up. We pretty much started all over again. We booked the Arctangent Festival to give us an enforced deadline.
This was a record that made me scared. I found it intimidating, out of my comfort zone and uneasy.
….all of which is why I love this record so much.
It’ll be available to pre-order on Pledge Music this week.
MV x
1/26/16 2:15PM
Stoked. More later probably, and I have to wait to put my order in at a non-public location (I'm at lunch right now).
But this record I could certainly foresee being awesome. Maybe as good if not better than The Demon Joke.
Download comes with a preorder.
Pledgemusic / PREORDER
Monday, July 29, 2013
The Red Paintings - The Revolution Is Never Coming (2013)
7/29/13 5:30PM
http://www.theomegaorder.com/THE-RED-PAINTINGS
finally available in the US w/ t-shirt bundle as an option. Vinyl? ..maybe in due time.
6/11/13 12:00PM
Available to purchase in AUSTRALIA, HERE FROM JBHIFI
Loving this fucking record, the more I hear it. Trash does remind me of some singers, I think perhaps maybe closest to Simon Neil from Biffy Clyro.
But not to spoil, but when my Midyear Albums countdown is published soon, don't be surprised to see this record rather high.
6/10/13 12:00PM
Wow, this album "The Revolution is Never Coming" very well may have lived-up if not exceeded the expectations and hype I've seen in so many glaring reviews over the past few weeks. Wow, the drumming is BOMBASTIC, the songs are *epic* in more than a few ways. The strings or mostly violin work is tremendous. The melodies stay with you. I think the amount of time/years they spent working to finish it is evident. I can see myself listening to it a fair amount over the coming weeks to get a better idea, but for now, I can already say it's a 4-star record with a ton to explore. It may just be held back by a few little things like some of the tracks silent spots, and a little bit of compression on the cymbals and swallowing by their singer briefly at points.
But if the Revolution is in fact never coming, at least this record finally has come.
1 early review
Another review from today (5/23/13)
01 Vampires Are Chasing Me
02 Dead Children
03 Dead Adults
04 Wasps
05 The Fall Of Rome
06 Walls
07 Streets Fell Into My Window
08 You’re Not One Of Them
09 It Is As It Was
10 Hong Kong
11 Deleted Romantic
12 Rain
13 The Revolution Is Never Coming
release date in Australia for this album is June 7th. I guess it'll be coming to North America in August or perhaps even October. These glaring reviews have my interest going up about this record, quite a bit more.
http://www.theomegaorder.com/THE-RED-PAINTINGS
finally available in the US w/ t-shirt bundle as an option. Vinyl? ..maybe in due time.
6/11/13 12:00PM
Available to purchase in AUSTRALIA, HERE FROM JBHIFI
Loving this fucking record, the more I hear it. Trash does remind me of some singers, I think perhaps maybe closest to Simon Neil from Biffy Clyro.
But not to spoil, but when my Midyear Albums countdown is published soon, don't be surprised to see this record rather high.
6/10/13 12:00PM
Wow, this album "The Revolution is Never Coming" very well may have lived-up if not exceeded the expectations and hype I've seen in so many glaring reviews over the past few weeks. Wow, the drumming is BOMBASTIC, the songs are *epic* in more than a few ways. The strings or mostly violin work is tremendous. The melodies stay with you. I think the amount of time/years they spent working to finish it is evident. I can see myself listening to it a fair amount over the coming weeks to get a better idea, but for now, I can already say it's a 4-star record with a ton to explore. It may just be held back by a few little things like some of the tracks silent spots, and a little bit of compression on the cymbals and swallowing by their singer briefly at points.
But if the Revolution is in fact never coming, at least this record finally has come.
1 early review
Another review from today (5/23/13)
Taking elements from the full rainbow of rock from the 60s to the future and beyond, you’ll find The Beatles sitting alongside Karnivool, and Radiohead in a world where Seattle grunge, punk, neo-classical, prog, and many more genres live harmoniously.
This amalgamation was created by The Red Paintings with help from a choir, violin, cello, horns, guitar, synth, bass and drums. Oh, and a 35-piece orchestra.
01 Vampires Are Chasing Me
02 Dead Children
03 Dead Adults
04 Wasps
05 The Fall Of Rome
06 Walls
07 Streets Fell Into My Window
08 You’re Not One Of Them
09 It Is As It Was
10 Hong Kong
11 Deleted Romantic
12 Rain
13 The Revolution Is Never Coming
release date in Australia for this album is June 7th. I guess it'll be coming to North America in August or perhaps even October. These glaring reviews have my interest going up about this record, quite a bit more.
Monday, July 8, 2013
The Age of Rockets - Adults (2013)
7/8/13 6:18PM
I got it as a download today given I pledged $25 or more to the Kickstarter. CDs will be coming later to the $100 Kickstarters and I guess even later (like 2014?) for the standard version.
But here's the breakdown. I sort of understand why he shared the Tracklist so long ago (2012?) . In a way, it's like what Archive or Biffy Clyro have done (among many others) where they release demos and other songs/other version of songs. The new Ours album I guess very well could be including more version like this.
But, this was intentional. What I'm struggling a bit with is how I want to listen to this. Initially I'll probably just play the 3 "versions" as they are, and then maybe highlight specific versions of each track and try and then combine them on a CDR. I say that, as I am a little challenged compared to most people, including who The Age of Rockets intended this album's experiment to be for, as in FOR AN MP3 PLAYER/PLAYLIST to be played either at random between all 3 versions, or just a mixing and matching AMONG ALL 30 OF THE TRACKS AMONGST ALL 3 VERSIONS.
But unless I use a 3-cd changer and hit random, which I don't foresee unless I'm at my girlfriend's who has 1 or in her car, I am likely going to have to CUSTOM MAKE my own versions/order of the tracks.
Which I guess is sort of 1-of if not the whole point of this experiment.
Now, the music itself or course needs to hold up and justify it, and I think it may, but it's funny how this is a format or listening to music that in some ways, actually DOES REQUIRE you to listen carefully.
But that should be at least part of the fun of it.
1.1 Darling Street (Version 1) 3:21
1.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 1) 4:26
1.3 March/April/May (Version 1) 7:54
1.4 Cold Season (Version 1) 2:36
1.5 Connecticut (Version 1) 3:16
1.6 What Was for Us (Version 1) 3:11
1.7 Chapter 7 (Version 1) 3:46
1.8 Flights (Version 1) 4:17
1.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 1) 3:41
1.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 1) 4:39
41:07
2.1 Darling Street (Version 2) 3:29
2.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 2) 5:15
2.3 March/April/May (Version 2) 4:28
2.4 Cold Season (Version 2) 3:17
2.5 Connecticut (Version 2) 3:03
2.6 What Was for Us (Version 2) 3:12
2.7 Chapter 7 (Version 2) 3:51
2.8 Flights (Version 2) 3:41
2.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 2) 3:17
2.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 2) 6:58
40:31
3.1 Darling Street (Version 3) 2:52
3.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 3) 3:28
3.3 March/April/May (Version 3) 5:13
3.4 Cold Season (Version 3) 2:26
3.5 Connecticut (Version 3) 5:00
3.6 What Was for Us (Version 3) 3:14
3.7 Chapter 7 (Version 3) 10:04
3.8 Flights (Version 3) 3:32
3.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 3) 3:03
3.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 3) 2:30
41:22
123 minutes or 2 Hours and 3 minutes.
7/4/13 11:32AM
https://www.facebook.com/theageofrockets/posts/10152978431245573
The Record is done. It will be out September 1st (my birthday) Kickstarter kickers will get it this week.
sadly we won't ever play again and this is the last record. We managed to do 3 records and never have a release party!
Good News and Bad, but not surprising news.
It took nearly 4 years, but this sucker is finally coming out. Bittersweet I suppose.
If I have 1 regret, I was looking at my Kickstarter contribution, I gave $25.
A digital download of the entire 30 track album as soon as it's finished. You will be one of the first people to receive the album. Probably about a month before it goes up on itunes! Also the name and link on our website!
But it appears in order to have received the physical CD(s), I would have to have contributed $100, lol. Now I remember why I didn't.
I guess if in some way, this album is released in physical form to the public, I may have to purchase a copy for an affordable rate ($30 or $40 perhaps?). I asked them on Facebook about the format, so hopefully that'll be more clear soon.
3/27/12 3:33AM
I was holding off posting this until more of the final details went public, but I suppose it doesn't make much difference at this point. Here's the cover art that is now public. And the track list for the 1st CD is below. Hopefully more details will come soon, namely a release date (or a Kickstarter pledge email download/mail-out date)
I do know, in all likelihood, this album will be the last The Age of Rockets record, for many years if ever. But regardless, if this album is amazing, it will hopefully be worth it.
CD 1
01 - Darling Street
02 - Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine
03 - March / April / May
04 - Cold Season
05 - Connecticut
06 - What Waits For Us
07 - Chapter Seven
08 - Flights
09 - When The Moon Began To Drift
10 - Can't Tell Me Nothin'
10/16/11 11:33AM
facebook announcement
As I think I posted in earlier entries, this 30-track, 3-cd concept record is coming, and for those who pledged to their kickstarter for this album and perhaps the pre-order, they should be receiving an email download link sometime around X-Mas.
In the mean time, I would definitely recommend hearing some of the clips Andrew Furtal has shared on their tumblr page which have totally intrigued me, maybe even more than their previous records.
The only thing to be a little down about is what Andrew posted on facebook the other day
Losing my mind working on the new record. I will be very surprised if I have another Age of Rockets record in me after this.
which I honestly don't blame him and the large amount of time and work that he has had to put into this album/project I would think once its done, he and the band will want to take a long break from recording. But then again, time can recharge/replenish and change your mindset.
I got it as a download today given I pledged $25 or more to the Kickstarter. CDs will be coming later to the $100 Kickstarters and I guess even later (like 2014?) for the standard version.
But here's the breakdown. I sort of understand why he shared the Tracklist so long ago (2012?) . In a way, it's like what Archive or Biffy Clyro have done (among many others) where they release demos and other songs/other version of songs. The new Ours album I guess very well could be including more version like this.
But, this was intentional. What I'm struggling a bit with is how I want to listen to this. Initially I'll probably just play the 3 "versions" as they are, and then maybe highlight specific versions of each track and try and then combine them on a CDR. I say that, as I am a little challenged compared to most people, including who The Age of Rockets intended this album's experiment to be for, as in FOR AN MP3 PLAYER/PLAYLIST to be played either at random between all 3 versions, or just a mixing and matching AMONG ALL 30 OF THE TRACKS AMONGST ALL 3 VERSIONS.
But unless I use a 3-cd changer and hit random, which I don't foresee unless I'm at my girlfriend's who has 1 or in her car, I am likely going to have to CUSTOM MAKE my own versions/order of the tracks.
Which I guess is sort of 1-of if not the whole point of this experiment.
Now, the music itself or course needs to hold up and justify it, and I think it may, but it's funny how this is a format or listening to music that in some ways, actually DOES REQUIRE you to listen carefully.
But that should be at least part of the fun of it.
1.1 Darling Street (Version 1) 3:21
1.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 1) 4:26
1.3 March/April/May (Version 1) 7:54
1.4 Cold Season (Version 1) 2:36
1.5 Connecticut (Version 1) 3:16
1.6 What Was for Us (Version 1) 3:11
1.7 Chapter 7 (Version 1) 3:46
1.8 Flights (Version 1) 4:17
1.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 1) 3:41
1.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 1) 4:39
41:07
2.1 Darling Street (Version 2) 3:29
2.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 2) 5:15
2.3 March/April/May (Version 2) 4:28
2.4 Cold Season (Version 2) 3:17
2.5 Connecticut (Version 2) 3:03
2.6 What Was for Us (Version 2) 3:12
2.7 Chapter 7 (Version 2) 3:51
2.8 Flights (Version 2) 3:41
2.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 2) 3:17
2.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 2) 6:58
40:31
3.1 Darling Street (Version 3) 2:52
3.2 Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine (Version 3) 3:28
3.3 March/April/May (Version 3) 5:13
3.4 Cold Season (Version 3) 2:26
3.5 Connecticut (Version 3) 5:00
3.6 What Was for Us (Version 3) 3:14
3.7 Chapter 7 (Version 3) 10:04
3.8 Flights (Version 3) 3:32
3.9 When the Moon Began to Drift (Version 3) 3:03
3.10 Can't Tell Me Nothing (Version 3) 2:30
41:22
123 minutes or 2 Hours and 3 minutes.
7/4/13 11:32AM
https://www.facebook.com/theageofrockets/posts/10152978431245573
The Record is done. It will be out September 1st (my birthday) Kickstarter kickers will get it this week.
sadly we won't ever play again and this is the last record. We managed to do 3 records and never have a release party!
Good News and Bad, but not surprising news.
It took nearly 4 years, but this sucker is finally coming out. Bittersweet I suppose.
If I have 1 regret, I was looking at my Kickstarter contribution, I gave $25.
A digital download of the entire 30 track album as soon as it's finished. You will be one of the first people to receive the album. Probably about a month before it goes up on itunes! Also the name and link on our website!
But it appears in order to have received the physical CD(s), I would have to have contributed $100, lol. Now I remember why I didn't.
I guess if in some way, this album is released in physical form to the public, I may have to purchase a copy for an affordable rate ($30 or $40 perhaps?). I asked them on Facebook about the format, so hopefully that'll be more clear soon.
3/27/12 3:33AM
I was holding off posting this until more of the final details went public, but I suppose it doesn't make much difference at this point. Here's the cover art that is now public. And the track list for the 1st CD is below. Hopefully more details will come soon, namely a release date (or a Kickstarter pledge email download/mail-out date)
I do know, in all likelihood, this album will be the last The Age of Rockets record, for many years if ever. But regardless, if this album is amazing, it will hopefully be worth it.
CD 1
01 - Darling Street
02 - Alas That Such Evil Days Should Be Mine
03 - March / April / May
04 - Cold Season
05 - Connecticut
06 - What Waits For Us
07 - Chapter Seven
08 - Flights
09 - When The Moon Began To Drift
10 - Can't Tell Me Nothin'
10/16/11 11:33AM
facebook announcement
As I think I posted in earlier entries, this 30-track, 3-cd concept record is coming, and for those who pledged to their kickstarter for this album and perhaps the pre-order, they should be receiving an email download link sometime around X-Mas.
In the mean time, I would definitely recommend hearing some of the clips Andrew Furtal has shared on their tumblr page which have totally intrigued me, maybe even more than their previous records.
The only thing to be a little down about is what Andrew posted on facebook the other day
Losing my mind working on the new record. I will be very surprised if I have another Age of Rockets record in me after this.
which I honestly don't blame him and the large amount of time and work that he has had to put into this album/project I would think once its done, he and the band will want to take a long break from recording. But then again, time can recharge/replenish and change your mindset.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Storm Thorgerson RIP
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22210378
Not that I have ever been so connected with artwork, as the music itself, but among the well-known Rock artists I do think of, he is certainly one of them. And Pink Floyd's artwork is iconic. RIP
look at his Credits (per Wikipedia)
Album cover designs
10cc:
Mirror Mirror (1994)
Anthrax
Stomp 442 (1995)
Audioslave
Audioslave (2002)
Catherine Wheel:
Chrome (1993)
Happy Days (1995)
Like Cats and Dogs (compilation) (1996)
Adam And Eve (1997)
Wishville (2000)
Biffy Clyro:
Puzzle (2007)
"Saturday Superhouse" (2007)
"Living is a Problem Because Everything Dies" (2007)
"Folding Stars" (2007)
"Machines" (2007)
Only Revolutions (2009)
"That Golden Rule" (2009)
"The Captain" (2009)
Opposites (2013)
The Cranberries:
Bury the Hatchet (1999)
Wake Up and Smell the Coffee (2001)
The Cult:
Electric (1987) (credited on the picture sleeve as "Art Direction by Storm Thorgerson")
Bruce Dickinson
Skunkworks (1996)
Disco Biscuits:
Planet Anthem (2010)
Dream Theater:
A Change of Seasons (1995)
Falling into Infinity (1997)
"Once in a LIVEtime" (1998)
"5 Years in a Livetime" (1998)
Ian Dury and The Blockheads
Mr. Love Pants (1998)
Ellis, Beggs, & Howard
Homelands (1989)
Ethnix
Home Is Where The Head Is (2002)
Europe
Secret Society (2006)
Peter Gabriel:
Peter Gabriel (1977)
Peter Gabriel (1978)
Peter Gabriel (1980)
Genesis
...And Then There Were Three... (1978)
David Gilmour
About Face (1984)
David Gilmour in Concert DVD (2002)
Helloween
Pink Bubbles Go Ape (1991)
Led Zeppelin
Presence (1976)
In Through the Out Door (1979)
The Mars Volta:
De-Loused in the Comatorium (2003)
"Inertiatic ESP" single (2003)
"Televators" single (2003)
Frances the Mute (2005)
"The Widow" single (2005)
Megadeth:
Rude Awakening DVD (2002)
Steve Miller Band:
Bingo! (2010)
Let Your Hair Down (2011)
Muse:
Absolution (2003)
"Butterflies and Hurricanes" single (2004)
Black Holes and Revelations (2006)
"Uprising" single (2009)
The Offspring
Splinter (2003)
Alan Parsons:
Try Anything Once (1993)
On Air (1996)
The Time Machine (1999)
A Valid Path (2004)
Pendulum
Immersion (2010)
Phish
Slip Stitch and Pass (1997)
The Pineapple Thief
Someone Here Is Missing (2010)
Pink Floyd:
A Saucerful of Secrets (1968)
Ummagumma (1969)
Atom Heart Mother (1970)
The Dark Side of the Moon (1973)
Wish You Were Here (1975)
Animals (1977)
A Momentary Lapse of Reason (1987)[3]
Delicate Sound of Thunder (1988)
Shine On (1992)[3]
The Division Bell (1994)
P*U*L*S*E (1995), including the blinking LED light that was featured in early CD packaging.[7]
Relics re-release (1996)
Is There Anybody Out There? The Wall Live 1980–81 (2000)
Echoes: The Best of Pink Floyd (2001)
Oh, by the Way (2007)
The Plea
The Dreamers Stadium (2012)[8]
Powderfinger
Golden Rule (2009)
Program the Dead
Program The Dead (2005)
Rainbow
Bent Out of Shape (1983)
Rival Sons
Pressure & Time (2011)
Shpongle
Ineffable Mysteries from Shpongleland (2009)
Styx
Cyclorama (2003)
Thornley
Come Again (2004)
Tiny Pictures (2009)
Thunder
Laughing On Judgement Day (1992)
Umphrey's McGee
Safety In Numbers (2006)
The Bottom Half (2007)
Villainy
Mode. Set. Clear. (2012)
Ween
The Mollusk (1997)
The Wombats:
This Modern Glitch (2011)
Rick Wright
Broken China (1996)
Younger Brother
Last Days of Gravity (2007)
Vaccine (2011)
Yourcodenameis:milo
Rapt. Dept. (2005)
17 (2005)
Ignoto (2005)
Music videos
Paul Young – "Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home)" (1983)
Rainbow – "Street of Dreams" (1983)
Robert Plant - "Big Log" (1983)
Yes – "Owner of a Lonely Heart" (1983)
Nik Kershaw - "Wouldn't It Be Good" (1984)
"The Riddle" (1984)
"Wide Boy (1984)
"Don Quixote" (1985)
David Gilmour – "Blue Light" (1984)
"All Lovers Are Deranged" (1984)
Pink Floyd – "Learning to Fly" (1987)
"The Dogs of War" (1987)
"High Hopes" (1994)
Bruce Dickinson – "Tattooed Millionaire" (1990)
"All the Young Dudes" (1990)
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Biffy Clyro - Opposites (2012)
New single "Stingin' Belle"
I know this is not new *news* in that the single came out on July 31st, etc. And it appears they had up to THREE different potential titles for this new album, but Opposites, I guess is going to be the title. Release date? I saw 1 thing say August 11th, but obviously it didn't come out that day.
2009's Only Revolutions was good, but I didn't find as addictive as 2007's Puzzle. This new single is okay, the outro sounding like the best part. Biffy Clyro are one of those bands I still like, but doubt I'll ever love, so I don't know why I'd expect this record to blow me away.
I am curious if Mike Vennart of Oceansize/British Theatre actually played on it. I suppose it's unlikely given his schedule, but he is/has been a touring member of the band for quite awhile.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Interview with Mike Vennart (ex-Oceansize/British Theatre)
I'm sure many folks have seen this, but also many who likely have not, as it only was just posted last week (on facebook at least)
It's not crystal clear, but at least he does explain some of what happened with the demise of Oceansize (and how Biffy Clyro compares).
http://www.undersong.co.uk/2012/05/15/dip-vs-mike-vennart
Mike Vennart is an incredibly talented and ambitious musician with an awesome back catalogue, but the future is also very, very exciting. He is the vocalist/guitarist for the now sadly defunct Oceansize, the live guitarist for Biffy Clyro, one of the most effortless cool men in rock and generally a bit of a legend. In a post-Oceansize world, he’s again working with Richard ‘Gambler’ Ingram on a new group, British Theatre. The first we properly heard from British Theatre came with the sudden release of an incredible three track EP in February this year, and since then it’s been a bit quiet. Here’s what happened when I caught up with Mike to talk about what the future holds for British Theatre
For the people that haven’t heard British Theatre, how would you describe the music you make?
I suppose it’s a kind of dark psychedelica, so far. We’re working in a primarily synthetic, synthesized medium. I’m still very much a guitar player, but I think texture, detail and atmosphere have always been my strong points so British Theatre is very much about that. We achieve that with, I suppose, a digitally altered version of often organic, natural sounds. Gambler is far more embroiled in abstract sound experimentation, and the recording and manipulation of acoustic, natural sound. At the end of all that, it’s usually my job to make it into semblance of a song.
You seem really excited and positive to be in the studio with Richard and working on British Theatre. How’s it all going?
It’s great. We work on initial ideas then swap drafts between ourselves via email. We don’t spend a whole lot of time together until there’s some serious work to be done. That said we do have a ‘jam’ from time to time. Just setting up a groove and playing over it so it’s still got that organic, spontaneous mentality to it.
Is there a release plan mapped out for British Theatre and if so when do you think we’ll be able to hear some more from you guys?
Not a map as such, but there’ll be a new EP out in the coming months with the album to follow a few months afterwards. As yet we’re totally DIY. We’ve been talking to a couple of labels but nothing makes any sense in that respect just yet.
When you first released the EP you seemed unsure about the idea of British Theatre performing live, but recently it seems you’re coming round to the idea. I would love to see British Theatre live, so are there any plans in the pipeline?
It’ll happen eventually. We’ve certainly got our eye on a couple of our mates to act as a rhythm section. It’s exciting, and personally I find it quite daunting working out how to pull it off, but Gambler assures me he knows it’s possible so it must be! I tend to think about things too literally in terms of the sonic reproduction of the record. I have to remind myself it’s not strictly necessary to do a gig that sounds exactly like the record. There’s likely to be some degree of adaptation. Should be fun!
Lots of young bands that I’ve spoken to name you as a major influence in their work, how does that feel?
They do? Well that’s just lovely. Now that I know that I’ll try and not write anything rubbishy.
Simon Neil mentioned last year that you’re involved in a project with him called Empire State Bastard. How’s that coming along?
It’s a tricky one because obviously Mr Neil is terribly busy with the juggernaut of relentless activity that is Biffy Clyro. Empire State Bastard will get its day in the sun and it will be a fucking shitkicker.
While we’re near the subject of Biffy Clyro, will you be rejoining them for their live shows this summer?
I shall. Of particular note is the Donington show, which I’m super excited about. Donington was the second ever gig I went to. My ma took me for my 12th birthday to see Iron Maiden. To this day, it remains one the most amazing days I’ve ever had. So to stand on that stage in front of 70,000 people and see that fucking big Dunlop bridge behind them – Fuck. It’s gonna rule.
With Biffy you’ve played arenas but with Oceansize you were (unjustly) playing smaller venues. How were the dynamics different; both within the band and towards the audience?
That’s a bit of a minefield. Firstly, it’s not likely that Oceansize would ever have worked as arena-botherers. The songs didn’t really lend themselves to that kind of vast ADD crowd who, let’s face it, if they’re not singing/moshing, are probably texting or buying hotdogs. That said, whilst Oceansize had no delusions of grandeur, there were those in the band that just weren’t up to the job.
Put it like this, when you watch Biffy Clyro live you can rest assured that they are pretty much stone-cold sober. They’re certainly not drunk, stoned, on downers or tripping their tits off on some new circuit-bent Chris Morris-esque tablet. They’re easy to play for cos they know how to play the songs and they play them correctly every single night. There’s an inherent trust there. There’s also a respect for their audience – they understand that their fans may have travelled miles, saved up money for tickets, planned their life around a show. It’s this respect for each other and their audience that has stood Biffy in good stead and it has helped take them to the top. That mindset has to be in place before you even consider a setlist. This respect and these qualities were, I’m sad to say, not consistent in the ranks of Oceansize.
Even if the opportunity had ever presented itself, Oceansize simply was not allowed to move forward. Whenever we had to step up to the challenge, the same fucking turd was on the doorstep.
Is there a worry that you’ll forever be know as ‘Mike from Oceansize’ or ‘that guy who plays with Biffy’?
I give not a toss. It’s nice to be known at all.
You were tweeting #LiesAboutVennart a while ago. What is the best lie you’ve heard or told about yourself?
I don’t think I’ve ever told any fibs about myself to be honest. Not because I’m some kind of saint, I just don’t really have the imagination or the inclination. I used to lie a lot at school. I used to have identical handwriting as my mother so I’d frequently write notes from her excusing me from P.E. or some unfinished homework.
You’re very passionate about music and in my opinion, live is where music comes alive. What was the last gig you went to and the best gig you’ve ever been to?
The last gig I saw was Graham Coxon as my friend Stuffy was drumming for him. I like Graham’s playing and his early solo records are lovely too. Always late to the party, I’ve just got into ’13′ by Blur too. It’s a damn shame that smack is so evil and damaging cos it sure as hell makes for great music!
Best gig I’ve seen? They usually come under the ‘lucky to have been there’ banner. So, Faith No More in 1992, Mr Bungle in 1996, Nine Inch Nails in 1994, Cardiacs at the Roadhouse in 1996… and of course Iron Maiden in 1988! There’s so many of them that I’ll never forget.
There are some incredible albums coming out this year. What albums are you looking forward to hearing?
I’m looking forward to the Liars record. I’ve heard a lot of the next Future Of The Left and it’s a belter. It’s maybe not cool to talk up someone I consider a good friend, but fucking hell, Andy Falkous is one of the greatest lyricists I’ve ever heard/read. The song ‘Failed Olympic Bid’ on their new record treads that fine line between the profound and the ridiculous, like most of his output. I think the body of work he’s produced between Mclusky and FOTL is vastly underrated. Future Of The Left should be at least twice as big as they are.
And now, the greatest interview question in the world. If you were a type of wood, what wood would you be?
Pine. Just cos it sounds needy and sweet.
With an EP, and album and the possibility of live dates on the way, things are looking good for British Theatre, and if their stunningly brilliant first EP is an indication of the direction they’re heading, then boy, are we in for a treat.
You can listen to/download the first fantastic EP from their Bandcamp page here.
Written by Dip on 06 May 2012
It's not crystal clear, but at least he does explain some of what happened with the demise of Oceansize (and how Biffy Clyro compares).
http://www.undersong.co.uk/2012/05/15/dip-vs-mike-vennart
Mike Vennart is an incredibly talented and ambitious musician with an awesome back catalogue, but the future is also very, very exciting. He is the vocalist/guitarist for the now sadly defunct Oceansize, the live guitarist for Biffy Clyro, one of the most effortless cool men in rock and generally a bit of a legend. In a post-Oceansize world, he’s again working with Richard ‘Gambler’ Ingram on a new group, British Theatre. The first we properly heard from British Theatre came with the sudden release of an incredible three track EP in February this year, and since then it’s been a bit quiet. Here’s what happened when I caught up with Mike to talk about what the future holds for British Theatre
For the people that haven’t heard British Theatre, how would you describe the music you make?
I suppose it’s a kind of dark psychedelica, so far. We’re working in a primarily synthetic, synthesized medium. I’m still very much a guitar player, but I think texture, detail and atmosphere have always been my strong points so British Theatre is very much about that. We achieve that with, I suppose, a digitally altered version of often organic, natural sounds. Gambler is far more embroiled in abstract sound experimentation, and the recording and manipulation of acoustic, natural sound. At the end of all that, it’s usually my job to make it into semblance of a song.
You seem really excited and positive to be in the studio with Richard and working on British Theatre. How’s it all going?
It’s great. We work on initial ideas then swap drafts between ourselves via email. We don’t spend a whole lot of time together until there’s some serious work to be done. That said we do have a ‘jam’ from time to time. Just setting up a groove and playing over it so it’s still got that organic, spontaneous mentality to it.
Is there a release plan mapped out for British Theatre and if so when do you think we’ll be able to hear some more from you guys?
Not a map as such, but there’ll be a new EP out in the coming months with the album to follow a few months afterwards. As yet we’re totally DIY. We’ve been talking to a couple of labels but nothing makes any sense in that respect just yet.
When you first released the EP you seemed unsure about the idea of British Theatre performing live, but recently it seems you’re coming round to the idea. I would love to see British Theatre live, so are there any plans in the pipeline?
It’ll happen eventually. We’ve certainly got our eye on a couple of our mates to act as a rhythm section. It’s exciting, and personally I find it quite daunting working out how to pull it off, but Gambler assures me he knows it’s possible so it must be! I tend to think about things too literally in terms of the sonic reproduction of the record. I have to remind myself it’s not strictly necessary to do a gig that sounds exactly like the record. There’s likely to be some degree of adaptation. Should be fun!
Lots of young bands that I’ve spoken to name you as a major influence in their work, how does that feel?
They do? Well that’s just lovely. Now that I know that I’ll try and not write anything rubbishy.
Simon Neil mentioned last year that you’re involved in a project with him called Empire State Bastard. How’s that coming along?
It’s a tricky one because obviously Mr Neil is terribly busy with the juggernaut of relentless activity that is Biffy Clyro. Empire State Bastard will get its day in the sun and it will be a fucking shitkicker.
While we’re near the subject of Biffy Clyro, will you be rejoining them for their live shows this summer?
I shall. Of particular note is the Donington show, which I’m super excited about. Donington was the second ever gig I went to. My ma took me for my 12th birthday to see Iron Maiden. To this day, it remains one the most amazing days I’ve ever had. So to stand on that stage in front of 70,000 people and see that fucking big Dunlop bridge behind them – Fuck. It’s gonna rule.
With Biffy you’ve played arenas but with Oceansize you were (unjustly) playing smaller venues. How were the dynamics different; both within the band and towards the audience?
That’s a bit of a minefield. Firstly, it’s not likely that Oceansize would ever have worked as arena-botherers. The songs didn’t really lend themselves to that kind of vast ADD crowd who, let’s face it, if they’re not singing/moshing, are probably texting or buying hotdogs. That said, whilst Oceansize had no delusions of grandeur, there were those in the band that just weren’t up to the job.
Put it like this, when you watch Biffy Clyro live you can rest assured that they are pretty much stone-cold sober. They’re certainly not drunk, stoned, on downers or tripping their tits off on some new circuit-bent Chris Morris-esque tablet. They’re easy to play for cos they know how to play the songs and they play them correctly every single night. There’s an inherent trust there. There’s also a respect for their audience – they understand that their fans may have travelled miles, saved up money for tickets, planned their life around a show. It’s this respect for each other and their audience that has stood Biffy in good stead and it has helped take them to the top. That mindset has to be in place before you even consider a setlist. This respect and these qualities were, I’m sad to say, not consistent in the ranks of Oceansize.
Even if the opportunity had ever presented itself, Oceansize simply was not allowed to move forward. Whenever we had to step up to the challenge, the same fucking turd was on the doorstep.
Is there a worry that you’ll forever be know as ‘Mike from Oceansize’ or ‘that guy who plays with Biffy’?
I give not a toss. It’s nice to be known at all.
You were tweeting #LiesAboutVennart a while ago. What is the best lie you’ve heard or told about yourself?
I don’t think I’ve ever told any fibs about myself to be honest. Not because I’m some kind of saint, I just don’t really have the imagination or the inclination. I used to lie a lot at school. I used to have identical handwriting as my mother so I’d frequently write notes from her excusing me from P.E. or some unfinished homework.
You’re very passionate about music and in my opinion, live is where music comes alive. What was the last gig you went to and the best gig you’ve ever been to?
The last gig I saw was Graham Coxon as my friend Stuffy was drumming for him. I like Graham’s playing and his early solo records are lovely too. Always late to the party, I’ve just got into ’13′ by Blur too. It’s a damn shame that smack is so evil and damaging cos it sure as hell makes for great music!
Best gig I’ve seen? They usually come under the ‘lucky to have been there’ banner. So, Faith No More in 1992, Mr Bungle in 1996, Nine Inch Nails in 1994, Cardiacs at the Roadhouse in 1996… and of course Iron Maiden in 1988! There’s so many of them that I’ll never forget.
There are some incredible albums coming out this year. What albums are you looking forward to hearing?
I’m looking forward to the Liars record. I’ve heard a lot of the next Future Of The Left and it’s a belter. It’s maybe not cool to talk up someone I consider a good friend, but fucking hell, Andy Falkous is one of the greatest lyricists I’ve ever heard/read. The song ‘Failed Olympic Bid’ on their new record treads that fine line between the profound and the ridiculous, like most of his output. I think the body of work he’s produced between Mclusky and FOTL is vastly underrated. Future Of The Left should be at least twice as big as they are.
And now, the greatest interview question in the world. If you were a type of wood, what wood would you be?
Pine. Just cos it sounds needy and sweet.
With an EP, and album and the possibility of live dates on the way, things are looking good for British Theatre, and if their stunningly brilliant first EP is an indication of the direction they’re heading, then boy, are we in for a treat.
You can listen to/download the first fantastic EP from their Bandcamp page here.
Written by Dip on 06 May 2012
Monday, February 14, 2011
Oedipus - TBA (2011) (1.0)
link/posting/updates
BACK IN THE STUDIO
We were back in the studio last night @ the Den Recorders tracking what will be a full length LP set to drop this coming June. Stay tuned for more updates on this and some behind the scene sneak peak's of the sessions.
there's that post, and they keep posting about working on the album on their twitter account.
This band I got into a few years ago, and actually a search on this blog would probably trace back to that. Their debut record, 2004's Humbility I enjoyed when I 1st heard it, and have liked a bit more ever since. More or less over the last couple of years.
They're kind of in the Silverchair/Biffy Clyro/Muse vein to a point. Heavy art-rock that includes much of a catchy/power-pop style to it. They also seem to have some songs that are more bass-driven.
Their most recent release, 2008's Covetous EP I liked, although not as much as Humbility. But it'll be nice to finally hear more new stuff from them soon, and I suppose see how it compares to their previous work.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
MINNEAPOLIS SOON!
Some events coming up.
1/30/10 Daryl Stuermer playing "Genesis Rewired" @ Medina Entertainment Center
or
The Galactic Cowboys Orchestra CD release show in Lakeville. Even though I want to go to that show, TGCO are local, Daryl is not, nor the chance to see someone do some of the classic Genesis stuff live.
Damn I hate concert-conflicts!
edit: at least it appears TGCO do have some gigs coming up on other dates at least, including 1 on 1/24/10 in White Bear Lake!
3/2/10 Laura Veirs with Old Believers and Cataldo @ The Cedar.
March 21st
Varsity Theater
Manchester Orchestra w/ The Features, Biffy Clyro, & O'Brother
I am a Biffy fan, MO (if only it were Mahavishnu instead of Mancherster) not so much. The other 2 names I've never heard before I don't believe.
not coming PORCUPINE TREE. Unless somehow they came in May. But the 5 year anniversary of their last show in Minneapolis isn't too far away now as it was May of 2005, lol.
1/30/10 Daryl Stuermer playing "Genesis Rewired" @ Medina Entertainment Center
or
The Galactic Cowboys Orchestra CD release show in Lakeville. Even though I want to go to that show, TGCO are local, Daryl is not, nor the chance to see someone do some of the classic Genesis stuff live.
Damn I hate concert-conflicts!
edit: at least it appears TGCO do have some gigs coming up on other dates at least, including 1 on 1/24/10 in White Bear Lake!
3/2/10 Laura Veirs with Old Believers and Cataldo @ The Cedar.
March 21st
Varsity Theater
Manchester Orchestra w/ The Features, Biffy Clyro, & O'Brother
I am a Biffy fan, MO (if only it were Mahavishnu instead of Mancherster) not so much. The other 2 names I've never heard before I don't believe.
not coming PORCUPINE TREE. Unless somehow they came in May. But the 5 year anniversary of their last show in Minneapolis isn't too far away now as it was May of 2005, lol.
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