Monthly Archives: November 2012

Emily Barker at the Union Chapel… and the Rocking Trio at the King’s Head, Islington

Posted on November 22, 2012 by John S

I’ve just had the most brilliant musical evening. I’m staying up late to write about it because I’m away for the next few days. And I’m still buzzing… It started with Emily Barker and the Red Clay Halo at the … Continue reading →

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Have You Heard? – (28) Grand Drive

Posted on November 20, 2012 by John S

Grand Drive are one of my favourite bands of the 2000s. You could call them Americana, country rock, a combination of the Byrds, Neil Young, Crowded House and Teenage Fanclub with a hint of Bruce Springsteen. Or you could just … Continue reading →

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Have you Heard? – (27) “Dead & Born & Grown” by The Staves

Posted on November 16, 2012 by John S

The Staves are three sisters from Watford (which is just outside London) who sing the most beautiful harmonies. Jessica, Emily and Camilla. Their music is kind of folk, kind of pop. It’s a music that highlights the voices: most of … Continue reading →

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Skyfall !

Posted on November 13, 2012 by John S

I’ve just got back from seeing the latest Bond movie, “Skyfall”, at Leicester Square Odeon. Wow! I’m still reeling. An awesome film. I’ve always enjoyed the Bond movies – they never fail to be entertaining. The sixties films with Sean … Continue reading →

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Sportsthoughts (53) – Battle of the Exes

Posted on November 10, 2012 by John S

Tomorrow afternoon West Ham are away to Newcastle. West Ham’s manager, Sam Allardyce, was sacked by Newcastle in 2008, after a rather unhappy period in charge. Newcastle’s manager, Alan Pardew, was sacked by West Ham in 2006 after quite a … Continue reading →

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Have You Heard? – (26) “Walk Away Renee” by Billy Bragg

Posted on November 8, 2012 by John S

You’ll probably know this song, if you do at all, through the Four Tops version.  A grand, rather desperate plea. There should be a “Just” in the title. But I want to share with you a version that you may … Continue reading →

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Some summer sun – a Costa Brava walk

Posted on November 5, 2012 by John S

In these cold, wet and and gloomy November days, with the darkness setting in by 5 o’clock, it’s good to remember the days of summer. Here are a few photos from a lovely walk I’ve done many times when on … Continue reading →

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Sportsthoughts (52) – Quins keep winning!

Posted on November 3, 2012 by John S

Tonight I was at at the Stoop to see Quins beating Gloucester 28-25, the second week in a row that they’ve won by the nervous margin of three points.  But wins are wins and they stay top of the Premier … Continue reading →

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Have You heard? – (25) “Hearts of Stone” by Johnny, Bruce and Danny

Posted on November 1, 2012 by John S

This is the last dance, the last chance, for hearts of stone… Johnny… Southside Johnny of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. Bruce… The Boss, Springsteen. Danny… Wilson, main man behind Grand Drive, a great Americana band, based in South London! The … Continue reading →

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