JULY ROUND UP

July was mega busy, not much staying in and keeping warm for me!

1. Finish sorting my holiday photos

It's coming up to the year anniversary of my trip and I still haven't properly sorted my photos. Mostly, I've been busy and mostly it's a big job. The thing about digital photography is that you take so many photos! I am arranging them, labeling them and identifying them correctly. And that's where I get bogged down, being particular with a focus on detail (I'm a Librarian, I can't help it!), I am finding labeling buildings etc correctly very time consuming. However, I am doing a little bit each week, and getting there.

5. Read more of my own books. I tend to purchase these, but they get pushed aside for books I bring home from work

The three books I've read this month are my own - more on them below.

 

6. More live music

Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier and Sarah Blasko.

 

My review for Deborah & Willy can be found here:

 

http://reviews-vyv.blogspot.com.au/2013/07/deborah-conway-and-willy-zygier-live-at.html

 

Sarah Blasko is another Australian singer I have loved for a long time and one I've never seen. Her voice is remarkable, stunning range, such purity, and a stillness and ease that is rare. L, little A (a ring in for A) and myself had front row seats at City Hall. The room was perfect for her voice, and it was even more remarkable live. Her band were tight, a great mix of bass, guitars, grand piano. A lot of her songs are very bass and drum heavy, which gives them an unusual sound, though giving her blues and jazz background not surprising. Her presence on stage is enigmatic and charismatic at the same time. She moves in a way that made me think she had some training in ballet or classical dance, though at times she appeared awkward. She was warm and funny with us as the audience. I love seeing a performer for the first time, especially someone as well established as Sarah, listening to their songs, realising how many you know and love, and being swept up in the romanticism of it all as one can only do at live performances.

 

 

7. Learn to cook 5 basic, healthy meals I can whip up easily

I've been trying to be better at this. Now it's winter I have a few variations on vegetable/zucchini pie/fritters etc. I've been cooking these up on a Sunday, so I have plenty to eat with fresh vegetables or salad during the week for lunch and dinner. It breaks up the weeks meals and prevents me from being lazy and grabbing takeaway!

 

8. Don't let the things that usually bother me, irritate me too much

As reported last month, I was suffering a bit, feeling bothered and irritated, sad and upset. The Mean Reds!! I am happy to report that whilst I know I am nowhere near as 'good' as I'd like to be, I have made huge progress in getting back to my normal...which is nowhere near normal! A fun month like July with my wonderful family and friends is certainly gold for the soul. 

19. Eat and drink out more/20. Get through my list of local restaurants and cafes

Oh yes, I've done a bit of that...possibly too much!

The usual Gozleme at The Markets plus tried their dumplings this time - divine; and some salted caramel rocky road! Cupcakes from Cupcake espresso. back to Cibo on Beaumont for Tapas, lunch at The Duke, dinner at Agosti, and supper at the superb new French Wine Bar, Le Passe Temps. Newcastle is offering more and more classy and cool venues to eat at, I'm loving it!

 

23. Spend more time with my niece and nephew

I had a lovely day with them that started with soccer games. Miss 5 was up first and what a joyous time that was. 7 under 6s, only 4 on the field at a time. 3 girls, 4 boys, and they were having the time of their little lives, grins wide, lots of high fives and laughs. If you ever want to see true joy and happiness little people playing like that is pretty much it! Mr 10's was a little more dramatic, with underhanded moves (the other teams) and lots of falling into the mud, some possibly on purpose. We managed to finish before more rain and headed back to their farm for the day. After lunch parents were banished, board games were brought out and the three of us settled in for some serious competition. Loads of fun had by all.

 

 

30. Say no or at least I'll need to get back to you on that one to the people I always say yes to that usually let me down

Why does it feel so good to say no? I think the Mean Reds are attributed to being to giving a little bit too much of myself and realising the balance is a little out. Not that one gives to get... Nonetheless, No has been said.

 

31. Have fun and laugh more at work

Most Libraries have events for children during the School Holidays and Swansea is no exception. N & I hosted a Mad Hatter's Tea Party, which was a lot of hard work but loads of fun. I think the kids enjoyed it too! And then a few days later we had back to back drumming workshops. These are awesome and the kids have a blast, as do we watching and listening to them drum the roof off the library. Libraries are no longer the boring book museums of the 50s. You really must check out your local library if you haven't been to one in a while, you will be surprised at what you will find. Even better come and visit me at Swansea!

 

33. Go to lots of fun social events

July was jam packed of events.

 

I did my usual Farmers Markets at Speers Point, and also went to Olive Tree Markets for the first time in months. I highly recommend them, lots of great arts and crafts, entertainment and food. C and I made a day of it, meeting other friends for lunch at Cibo, checking out the fabulous new Christmas Store, 'Tis the Season, indulging at Cupcake Espresso, and having a giggle and cuppa tea at my place.

 

 

A fabulous girls night out with A, L, J and S incorporated a Gallery opening, the movie Before Midnight, and checking out the fabulous new French Wine Bar, Le Passe Temps. This is a divine and classy addition to Hunter Street. beautifully and masterly renovated in an old Dec bank Building with yummy finger food and great French Champagne. We all agreed it was a perfect night.

 

 

 

A lot of Newcastle tweeps met up at The Grand Hotel for another Tweet up, Twistmas in July. A lot of us met for the first time back in December and were keen to strengthen those online bonds again. A great night was had by all, with about 50 people turning up to chat, drink and have fun. 

Another fabulous Bookclub afternoon at Tallulah's, enjoying exploring the titles we have chosen and chatting about them with these fabulous ladies over wine or coffee. I can also recommend the salted caramel macaroons. This was followed by a trip to Newcastle Art Gallery with M to see the wonderful Philip Wolfhagen exhibition. What a beautiful selection of landscapes including water. I was very impressed. We then headed to Agosti for dinner, and then caught the play, House of Fire. A story about three sisters coping after their mother dies and their father remarries. Written by Deborah Oswald, who is responsible for Offspring, she really knows how to write for women. Was a great play, funny and poignant.

 

 

The night previous I went with a group of fabulous ladies to Agosti for their jazz evening. Amazing meals and light instrumental jazz in the background made the evening very impressive.

 

 

Add in Deborah Conway and Sarah Blasko...no wonder I am tired!

 

Photography

I should have added a new category to the 42 things...Photography. It is something I have always been interested in, but only lately have been getting back into it. I joined instagram and am addicted, which is great, it makes you look around you differently - what is instagramable? I have been going nuts for sunsets. Working and living on the lake means I see a lot of water, especially driving to and from work, so plenty of opportunities to snap something. I am finding it is a way to slow myself down, sit and look at what is happening around me, be in the moment and enjoy the simple things. I highly recommend it!

 

 
 
DVDs

Dead Europe - This is an Australian film based on Christos Tsiolka's book. About a young photographer's journey back to Athens to find out more about his family background and Greek heritage after his father dies unexpectedly. His father was highly superstitious and there are elements of this in it, it is confronting, honest, dramatic and amazing. The lead actor is brilliant and holds our attention. It is a difficult film to describe but totally worth watching.

Safety not guaranteed - I loved this film so much I watched it twice. A journalist takes his two interns to a small town to investigate a wanted ad he saw. The ad asks for a companion to travel back in time with, safety not guaranteed. What is the person who wrote the ad up to, can he really time travel, and why does the journalist really want to visit this small town? This is a glorious little film, it's humour is dry and it's gentle on it's characters and subject matter. The acting is superb and is a must see.

West of Memphis - this is a documentary about the Memphis 3. Previously there has been a trilogy of documentaries detailing this incredible story but this is a better telling of the story and backed financially by Peter Jackson a much more professional film. For those that do not know, the Memphis Three were most probably wrongly jailed for the murder of three young boys in 1993. The documentary goes over the scant evidence and the way the police possibly tricked the three, teens at the time, into confessing. I will say no more, and whilst I am not normally a fan of true crime, this really had me on the edge of my seat.

The Impossible - Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor star as the parents of a young family holidaying in Thailand when the Boxing Day Tsunami hit. This is gruelling to watch, with utterly brilliant performances from McGregor and especially Watts, the oldest son also terrific. You will need tissues and a strong resolve, but worth giving it a go.

 

The Way - I was so so about The Way when I watched it, but that we a few weeks ago and I find myself thinking about it from time to time. Strange how that happens. Martin Sheen travels the Camino de Santiago in honour of his son who was accidentally killed on it's route. Sheen plays a fuddy duddy, set in his ways and as he journeys he collects a mish mash of travellers, all doing the pilgrimage for their own reasons. Directed by Emilio Estevez (and he plays Sheen's son in flashbacks) this is obviously a film of faith, yet it never really pushed that. It was a simple movie shot against the most magnificent backdrop, and it's made me think a lot about varying things since watching it. So give it a go, if it comes your way, I'd be curious to see what you thought!

The Master - this was a thoroughly annoying movie, mostly due to it's subject matter, yet I really enjoyed it. Philip Seymour Hoffman is the guru of a cult similar to say Scientology, Amy Adams his adoring and ever faithful wife, and Joaquin Phoenix as his young protégé. From the get go it is obvious that Phoenix's character has issues, and it only explores his depths as the film goes on. For me it was the powerful of acting between the male leads that had me hypnotised. It is almost a love story (not sexually) between the two. Highly disturbing but incredible at the same time.

Before Sunrise - this is the ultimate love story. American boy (Laid back Ethan Hawke) meets French girl (Feisty Julie Delpy) on a train heading for Paris. They strike up a conversation and he convinces her to get off in Vienna with him and keep him company until his plane leaves...one evening until midnight. And she does and it is beautiful and perfect. The film is mostly conversation, that gorgeous conversation you have when you are first getting to know someone and you feel somehow connected. The stunning backdrop of Vienna works so well, but it's the little things and moments that make this film. Made in 1995, they wear the same clothes, Delpy's hair is not 'done' and she has on hardly any make up...not that she needs any of that. I wonder if a film like this would even be made today. In a scene in a tram, hair falls over Delpy's eyes, Hawke nervously goes to push it back but then chickens and moves his hand back, she self consciously moves it herself. Little things that keep it real. 

Before Sunset - 9 years later, Hawke is promoting his book, based on what happened in Before Sunrise, in my own beloved Shakespeare and Company in Paris! Delpy is in the audience and they spend time together until he has to catch his plane back to LA. Again wandering around the very streets of Paris I have wandered, they chat and we find out exactly what happened in and after the last movie. I won't say too much, because these films are worth watching. This is Delpy's movie, she is a little jaded and very honest, some of her scenes including a huge break down in a taxi were so incredibly relatable to me they left me in tears. But mostly this is a joyous movie, with Paris as a backdrop, how could it not be? Both Delpy and Hawke assisted with the screen writing of this as they did the first and it shows. Linklater must have known he was onto something magical when he made the first film. The final scene of this is so incredibly delicious I cannot say, but it left me knowing exactly what was going to happen when the credits started to roll.

Game of Thrones, S2 - oh my, things jumped up a notch this season. No real space here to go into it in detail. Suffice to say I still adore The Dwarf, the Dragon Lady and the youngest daughter. Everyone hates everyone, or so it seems, war is imminent and bloodshed will happen...oh my!!! Plus plenty of beheadings and sex...what more do you need???

Books

Weird things customers say in bookshops 1 and 2 by Jen Campbell started as a blog some years back and I found it through Neil Gaiman's site. It is a collection of crazy things people have said to the author whilst working in a second hand bookstore. Hilarious and cute, if you love books or have worked with books, this is a must read. I reckon I could write my own copy!

Thunderbolt kid - Bill Bryson - this is another talking book read by the author and about his childhood and very dry humour. From baseball to candy to school and family and friends, this is very American but also very relatable. I also listened to a short one he wrote/read about The English Language, it was interesting in parts, but a bit academic.

The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes - this was our bookclub book and whilst the writing was brilliant, most struggled because the characters were so unlikeable. I realised I don't need my characters to be likeable to appreciate and enjoy a book. From talking to a lot of people, that would put me in the minority! Anyway, the book starts at the beginning of the characters lives but really in the middle of the story. About halfway through the story is the catalytic point where the story stems from. It is how a single action can set in motion a domino effect of tragedy that possibly you do not even realise. Very real, heartbreaking and exceedingly frustrating characters, it was a page turner for me and Barnes's use of language and metaphor brilliant.

Ocean at the End of the Lane - Neil Gaiman's first adult book in a while and totally worth the wait. It is difficult to explain the plot without giving away the surprises. There are sections of childhood memories, most certainly Neil's, of a young unpopular boy locked away in his room reading, the phrasing and descriptions are raw and real and he makes you smile with a little melancholy. A man returns to his childhood home and reminisces of a particular point in his childhood, the people he was friendly with and the most astonishing thing that happened to them in the 'ocean' at the end of the lane near his house. Of course this delves into fantasy and darkness as all his books do, but as always with so much heart and honesty and beauty it never feels forced, he makes these sequences seem real. And this is why he is the guru, the rock star of fiction writers. He just gets life and it's intricacies and craziness and mixed all of that into the fantasy aspects of his writing. if you have never read anything of his give this a go and then go straight to Coraline of vice versa. Or just follow him online, the most generous and giving man, and he loves Libraries and he is married to the awesome Amanda Palmer!!! 

Movies
Two visits to the cinema this month!

Firstly L & I spent the afternoon with Munch! I have always loved his Scream, and his life and artistic range are so fascinating, this documentary was great. I was lucky enough to see a large exhibition of his work a few years back in Melbourne. At the time I really only knew The Scream, but that was enough for me. However I was blown away by all his other paintings and the various styles he took part in over the years, his portraits in particular amazing. His life was tragic and you can see this in his paintings. The documentary was filmed as part of a huge exhibition in Norway, celebrating 150 years since his birth. The film takes you behind the scenes in putting together this amazing exhibit and tells his life story. Fascinating.

Before Midnight - the third in Linklater, Hawke and Delpy's romantic trilogy and we find our 'heroes' in Greece on a holiday another 9 years later. I won't give much away but it is a darker turn this time again with rich dialogue and long uncut scenes that are a testament to both Delpy and Hawke's assistance again with the script and of course their acting. Other characters weigh in on romance and life during this, but the movie shines and soars when the scenes are purely the stars. My favourite is still Before Sunset, but this was excellent all the same.

Music

I've been listening to a lot of Deborah Conway and Sarah Blasko due to their concerts. Such diverse voices but I love them both. Also listening to a bit of Tegan and Sara, more modern but still equally great songs and singers, danceable too of course!

On another genre, Steve Martin (the actor) paired up with Edie Brickell for a Bluegrass/Country album. Brickell, best known for her angelic voice and being married to Paul Simon is a favourite of mine, I adore her album, Shooting Rubberbands at the Stars. Martin is an award winning Banjo player, and highly sort after. This is a laid back and mellow album and worth a listen

Hugh Laurie (the actor, there's a pattern here!) has released another jazz album. He is a great piano player and has a wonderful voice, again worth a listen.

Finally, I have been blasting the new Primal Scream album, it's pretty good!

MIDNIGHT OIL: Teenage memories and political yearnings

I recently chanced upon the filmclips to US Forces and Power and The Passion back to back. I had not seen the clips in years and oh how they took me back. 

US Forces was my first experience with Midnight Oil, I was 12 and it was definitely a life changing moment for me as a not quite teen, politically and musically.

 

 

Watching the clip again I know I would have not really grasped exactly what it was about but it struck me hard, that I remember.

 

Firstly it was the music, I would have most certainly heard it before I saw it. That clear guitar riff had me hooked, as all clear guitar riffs have since, and the easily sung chorus and great melody.

 

Then there was that chanty, spoken word sort of section - it had, and still does have power and pull.

 

But the filmclip, set with the Lake Munmorah power station (I believe) and the backdrop transfixed me, or moreso the gorgeousness of drummer Rob Hirst, and the charisma and crazy dancing of one Peter Garrett. He was my new hero.  A tall, bald, kinda scary dude who danced in the most shocking but fabulous way. I still incorporate Garrett dance moves to this day - it gets looks, it creates space, and I simply don't care.

 

The lyric that intrigued me the most: "L Ron Hubbard won't save your life!" I pondered that for hours on end, Who was L Ron Hubbard, Why did my life need saving, and Why wouldn't he do it?

 

Scientology wasn't the thing it is now back then, funny huh?

 

This led to Power and The Passion, a staccato pop/rock tune that again had me transfixed, more crazy dancing with this band seemingly dumped in an obscure (to me at the time) backdrop and going about the business of playing the song regardless. Again Garrett moved with this Fuck Off stare that freaked out my sweet little mind, but I continued to watch as he literally danced to the bouncing beat of Rob Hirst's drum. I was definitely intrigued and a friend of Dad's taped me a copy of 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 or 10-1 as everyone called it. I played that tape till it broke, every single song a gem. No one I knew - at that time - knew of or liked Midnight Oil. Story of my life, to be repeated over for many years until I found my flock! 

 

  

The screamy lyric of Only The Strong, "When I'm locked in my room" sung to me in most certainly a way it was not intended.

 

After the one, two punch of Side 2 with US Forces and Power and the Passion, my other favourite tracks were Short Memory and Tin Legs and Tin Mines. I eventually replaced the broken tape with a vinyl copy. 

And then Red Sails in the Sunset was released. I had to have it and asked my grandparents for it for my 14th birthday! And they came up with the goods, I was very impressed. Imagine that, what must they have thought when they purchased that vinyl with the depiction of Sydney Harbour after a nuclear attack? Bless them, they bought it anyway. I loved this album with my very being, I was understanding the politics they represented more and was horrified about Nuclear War. I remember getting very angry about such things, and couldn't understand why everyone didn't see the sense in Nuclear Disarmament and so forth. 

 

LOL, Peter Garrett made me a lefty!! Flash Forward to now, you have no idea the disappointment I feel in his political career...the less said the better...

Back to Red Sails in the Sunset. I remember clear as day the first time I played the album at home on my little turntable. I had heard it before at my grandparents, but had to keep it quiet etc and the experience was not so great. I loved the album but knew I had to play it loud to get it. So back home from our Christmas holiday (I am a Christmas baby, born on Boxing Day) I was home alone, put the vinyl on the turntable, lay on my bed and turned it up loud!! I remember the turntable under my front window, the lilac bedspread on my bed, the pale lace curtains that let me see the outside world without it seeing me (I was an odd little creature, we all are at 14 I think), my desk and books, the amazing built in cupboards in that room with my comfy old lounge chair, saved from when the family lounge got replaced, and my small collection of beloved vinyl.

 

From the first few beats of When the Generals Talk, the experience was loud, cranky and fantastic. Listening to both 10-1 and Red Sails today as I type this, they are great but lack the impact felt as a young 12-14 year old, suppose you can never really relive those first experiences. Back then I would have definitely rated Red Sails over 10-1, today I would reverse it. Red Sails wasn't as well received as 10-1 by the critics and as an adult I can see why. It's still a great album, 10-1 just seems to have lasted the ravages of time better. 

 

I remember I had left my room halfway through side 2 and came back as Harrisburg started, and for those that don't know it starts with some weird deep breathing like sounds, I was certain something was in my room, the music started and those breaths were seemingly drowned out, I stood there hair standing up on end, thinking a ghoul was in my closet or outside the window. As the song continued I realised it was part of the song, and relieved collapsed back onto my bed.

 

Besides Generals, which does grab you, stand outs then and still today, my favourites are Kosciusko and Jimmy Sharman's Boxers.

 

Finally, to complete this tale of Midnight Oil, I played the third album in what I call The Classic Oils Trilogy, Diesel and Dust. Yes there are albums and EPs before and Albums since, but to me this trio are the essence of the Oils. Of course, I collected the entire catalogue on vinyl or CD, and love it all, though newer albums don't really appeal as much as the older stuff.

 

Diesel and Dust is the most celebrated of all Midnight Oil albums, it has won the most awards, was released at their peak and recently named in a book called, 100 Best Australian Albums, it was named No. 1! Whilst 10-1 still remains my favourite, this is their masterpiece, no doubt about it.

It came on the back of their touring the outback with Indigenous bands including The Warumpi Band, and the songs were mostly about reconciliation and packed a punch.

 

Beds are Burning is the song that caught the attention of the world, and became an anthem for the suffering of our Indigenous culture and peoples. 

 

The lyrics were powerful, beats rhythmic, and songs generally anthemic, you can see why it is so loved. I was old enough to get and appreciate every single second of this remarkable album when it was released. Listening to it now, my feelings are much the same, maybe heightened when you listen to an album that is as fresh and sadly relevant now as it was some 25 years ago. 

 

My favourite tracks were (and still are) Dreamworld, Sometimes, and Put Down that Weapon. Garrett never sounded better, the band sharp and tight. What I would have given to have seen them live at that very moment...

 

 

But alas I didn't, in fact I didn't see them live until well into the 90s. I am unsure why, quite possibly no one I knew really shared my love of Midnight oil. Anyway they played a multiple bill with a range of other Aussie bands at Newcastle Entertainment Centre, I think a tour for the drought? I cannot remember. What I do remember was their performance, burnt deeply into my memory.

It was a short but electrifying set, I danced up a frenzy, hands flailing a la Garrett and creating a very special space for myself on the dance floor. I know I was totally in my own world of extreme exhilaration to finally see this magnificent band and the songs moved me almost to tears. Live music is a powerful thing, get the timing right, with the right songs and the right emotions and it can send you into a trance that not experienced is difficult to truly understand or embrace....and of course explain. I am sure my sister can fill you in on her extreme embarrassment at my odd behaviour!

 

A few years later the same sister accompanied me to see Midnight Oil in full flight on the 20,000 Watt RSL Tour at Newcastle Workers Club (or whatever is was called in 1997/8). A proper concert and to support the Greatest Hits album of the same name, this was again brilliant. I remember they had a chocolate wheel with all the songs on and spun it to see what they would play next. I cannot remember what songs or even what order, but I can tell you they sounded better than their albums and their stage presence was out of this world. Garrett did not fail to impress with his movements, politics and incredible charisma.

 

It's funny to reminisce about something that is not that big a part of your life as it was over 20 years ago. I still love them and even moreso what they stood and still stand for. Midnight oil shaped my teenage years (along with many other things and of course other music) and began my political interest and my appreciation of humanity, animals and our world and that I think it a remarkable thing. And as disappointing as politics is at the moment, and Garrett himself has been, just think back to what he has achieved in his life thus far. Truly his idea for The Oils to wear Sorry tracksuits at the Olympic Games Closing Ceremony is one of the most brilliant displays of activism and deserved of sainthood alone. And the music stands up and represents a true Australia, the good and the bad, and it's been a blast going back and thinking of the musical inspiration Midnight Oil achieved for me. 

 

FRANKENSTEIN: THE PLAY

 

I love the story of Frankenstein, and even more so the story behind the story of Frankenstein. Mary Shelley travelling with Percy Shelley (her soon to be husband), Lord Byron, and another friend had a bet to see who could come up with the best horror story. They were in Geneva, where the story is set, and were discussing all sorts of ideas and the occult. Mary spent some time thinking about what her story would be and Frankenstein came to her in a dream...sounds more like a nightmare. There is a fabulous movie called Gothic by Ken Russell that focuses on this weekend with Natasha Richardson as Mary Shelley, Julian Sands as Percy, and the gorgeous Gabriel Byrne as Byron...prancing around the countryside in velvet making my heart all a flutter...but I digress...

 

Well, not really, as my heart was all a flutter at the theatrical performance of Frankenstein the other night.

 

Part of the subscription series at The Civic Theatre in Newcastle, this reworking of Frankenstein was originally presented at the National Theatre in London, and directed by Danny Boyle with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternating the roles of The Creature and Frankenstein each night...ohh, that would be something!

 

When I saw it listed as an option I was keen, but it sounded very dark and had warnings on it! M was unsure but I convinced her to go with me! 

 

So we headed out to The Civic on Friday, both tired and recovering from bouts of feeling unwell, and quite frankly thinking we'd both rather be at home in our PJs. I almost didn't have a glass of bubbly prior to the show for fear it might make me sleepier...almost...

 

We needn't have worried about falling asleep. From the moment the cellist on stage started to play, and The Creature awoke, we were transfixed!

 

Yes! A Cellist on stage, at the back, away from the action, but there and playing perfect accompaniment to the drama unfolding. I love Cellos, and it really was a haunting and romantic way to soundtrack the story. And there is lots of romance in Frankenstein.

 

But back to The Creature, he twisted and writhed and scratched and moaned and groaned and yelled for a good 10 minutes. Imagine an adult being born, it was primal and disgusting and sexy and hypnotic. The actor, who's name I am ashamed I do not know, was utterly beguiling. You could not take your eyes off him the entire time he was on stage, which was most of the play. His physique was outstanding, tall and muscular and perfectly formed, with make up to show the bastardisation of his construction. 

 

The entire cast were amazing, taking on the multiple roles within the lengthy tale. In particular the women and the man who played the blind man who initially befriends The Creature and teaches him language. 

 

The drama was unrelenting, but with timely moments of humour and romanticism. It worked very well on the stage with a simple set. Great effects like sheer curtains and falling snow, dark backdrops, and of course the music added to the gothic atmosphere of this haunting tale.

 

I knew there was no break, and when it ended I realised just over two hours had gone by...you never felt it.

 

There were times I almost turned away as the drama was a bit too much, and times I had tears in my eyes, and many that I laughed out loud. It was a truly remarkable experience. And what a feat for that brilliant actor to keep The Creature 'alive' on stage for that length of time, what a physical role it was. 

 

What I found interesting after all was said and done, was how many people were still sitting in their seats, a bit taken aback and in awe of their experience I guess, M and I were much the same. We were blown away. Easily the best play I have seen in a long, long time. Suffice to say we both said we were thrilled we had decided to go.

 

It only had 2 nights in Newcastle, but if you are elsewhere and it is playing, you simply must go and soak it all up.

JUNE ROUND UP

The year is flying so fast I feel a bit freaked out. I just want it to slow down a little...or maybe I need to slow down a little...nah, life's too short baby!!

 

So I have done pretty well in June, lots of things ticked off my 42 things list. I had pockets of busy, busy and pockets of stillness, which I really needed.

 

3. Have one night a week where I turn off all electronics and read

Yes! Still not a regular habit though, hopefully by the time the year is out.

4. Walk more and explore my own surroundings

Yes, been walking at lunchtime when the weather is ok and after work. Still need to get into a better routine, winter is so hard. Explored a bit of Maitland and also lots of the Watt Street area with City Evolutions.

 

7. Learn to cook 5 basic, healthy meals I can whip up easily

I have been experimenting with easy cooking. Made up a version of a Beef Stroganoff that was pretty easy. Been cooking up things like Vegetable pie, Zucchini slice and corn fritters on a Sunday so I can have them for meals during the week with veges or salad. I love food, but don't care much for cooking, so try to keep it simple.

 

8. Don't let the things that usually bother me, irritate me too much

This has been a hard one the past month or so. I find it difficult to shut my brain off, and tend to dwell on stuff, and truly that only leads to no good. I have been getting so much better at not doing this over the years but occasionally I slip. Usually it is work that gives me the poops, but it has been a whole range of other little things that just added up this month. Call it the black dog or the blues or as Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly called it, The Mean Reds (I love that!!) I had it, still do a little to be honest. I think we all go through this from time to time and I see no shame in calling it that. A lot of people say they love all the stuff I do and my life...and I do too, but it's not perfect...believe me!! It's very difficult to walk in the shoes of a single woman, especially at my age, but as Carrie Bradshaw said that is why we need really special shoes.

 

So how does one beat off the Mean Reds!?! Here are my tips:

 

1. Wallow a little, this is ok, have a day (only one) in bed, have a good cry, think about what is making you feel shite, yeah it makes you feel shite-er, but better than ignoring it!

 

2. Process it all - write it down, talk to a friend, I have the best friends anyone could ask for, they listen to me, and I to them and a problem shared is always a problems halved.

 

3. Go for a walk, that helps you mull it all over and gets endorphins going that can help fight those mean reds.

 

4. Wash it out in the shower...I love this, have a long, long shower and think about all the things and ensure they go down the plughole with the dirty water!!!

 

5. Pick yourself up and do the things that make you joyful. For me it's music or a funny movie...but laughter always ensues.

 

6. Keep busy AND take time to be calm and quiet - hence the month I have had.

 

7. One more thing I do and I wish I didn't, but I tend to eat comfort food...this is why I do NOT have the body of a supermodel...but nobody's perfect!

 

How am I doing now? Ok! But more importantly, how are you???

13. Write more, post on my blog more regularly

Yep, been writing heaps. For work, for my work writing group, for me, for the blog and a few other projects.

 

Here is a link to my online profile on ABC Open. I host a writing group at my work. I am merely the facilitator, and we all encourage each other, so of course I must join in too! It's memoir based and loads of fun.

 

https://open.abc.net.au/people/cathy-01am7fc

14. Whip my little back yard back into shape

Oh yes, During the earlier months of June I spent a fair bit of time digging in the dirt, which I find is also good for the soul. Trees and bushes trimmed, pots repotted, things rearranged and all looking ship shape.

 

15. Spend more time outdoors and less time indoors

Between gardening, walking and being out and about I have gotten it to 50/50 I reckon!

 

17. Mini breaks to my favourite places - Melbourne (not been since 2011!!), The Blue Mountains, Mid North Coast, and try new ones

Finally heading back to Melbourne in August, been close to 18 months since I have been which is way too long. I have a little apartment in the heart of the city, plan on seeing the Monet Exhibit, Australian Impressionists in Paris Exhibit, and the Hollywood Costumes at the ACMI and quite possibly King Kong: the musical! Plus lots of walking and photography, some laneway shopping, a bit of my beloved St Kilda and Prahan. Melbourne is my favourite place to vacation in Australia, someone said to me the other day I always thought you'd move there. Funny, She was right it is something I have considered many, many times, but then, where would I vacation? Plus Newcastle has so much awesomeness to offer at the moment, I don't want to miss a single thing!
 

19. Eat and drink out more/20. Get through my list of local restaurants and cafes

I ate at the lovely cafe at Maitland Art Gallery, had heard great things and totally concur, it's perfect for lunch. Went to Agosti twice to eat, for breakfast and dinner, both superb. The rest were favs I got to regularly. We had a Swansea Library Team dinner at Caves Beach Hotel, always great there. Indian at Raj's Corner, Gozleme from the markets, Pork Belly at The Royal Inn, Thai at Charlestown, and Coffee at Talulahs and Bella Beans.

 

 

 

26. Go to the farmers markets regularly

This is part of my routine now, always a pleasure.

 

28. Entertain more

I used to entertain at my old Club Cathy as it was set up better to have people over. New Club Cathy not so much and I need a new dining setting, or at least chairs, so I have not really entertained for a long while. However I had friends over for supper and lunch recently and it was lovely on both occasions, I love where I live so I should have people round more often!

 

31. Have fun and laugh more at work

Work has continued to be zen and joyful, which after so many years of challenges is so amazing. We do laugh and enjoy what we do, the more we do it the more good comes our way and the more we enjoy it, it's like a crazy loop of fun...not complaining!

 

33. Go to lots of fun social events

Yes! Lots of social events this month. And other bits and pieces.

 

C & I went to see Doctor Who on the big screen at Glendale at the very beginning of the month. 2 episodes and it was wonderful, I bought myself a Tom Baker scarf for the occasion, it's a beauty!

 

I had a 6 day break from work early in June, where I relaxed a bit, did nothing, read, caught up on DVDs, walked and went to the movies (more on that later).

 

I had S over for lunch and C for supper. I met J for coffee and caught up with the Bibliotweeps for Bookclub.

 

I went to the opening of City Evolutions, which was a whole street, Newcastle's oldest Watt Street, dedicated to illuminations and light shows. A must see for sure.

 

Then there was the travelling Sydney Film Festival and lunch at Maitland Art Gallery.

 

Work farewell at Caves Beach Hotel, Mum's birthday celebrations starting at The Royal Inn and a sisters day of shopping and lunch.

 

On the sporting front, lots of F1 and Le Tour watching and went to Lambton oval to see my nephew play soccer.

Movies I've seen

S & I saw The Other Son, a French film about two young men, one Israeli, and one Palestinian, who find they are swapped at birth. It was a very subtle and beautifully directed film, with excellent acting showing this very human drama against a political and religious backdrop.

D & I saw Qui m'aime me suive as part of Newcastle Film Society's collaboration with Francaise Alliance for French Fridays. It was about a young doctor who decides to throw it all away to get his old band back together. It was very funny and about pursuing your dreams. The band does all right, his wife and father are disgusted, there are lots of funny twists and turns and some tensions, but ultimately a very disappointing ending. Great music and he was rather cute.

 

I saw The Look of Love, Mood Indigo and Muscle Shoals at the Travelling Sydney Film Festival. The Look of Love was another Steve Coogan/Michael Winterbottom collaboration. I adore Winterbottom's varied output, but his tragi/comedies with Coogan are fabulous and this biopic about Paul Raymond, London entrepreneur was no exception. The Look of Love was a titillating, funny and ultimately sad look at Raymond's life. Outstanding acting, and fabulous 60s set design. 

 

L & I saw Mood Indigo, directed by Michel Gondry. I adored his first film, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, but each film since then has been disappointing. His films are eccentric for sure, and always have moments of surreal within, but this was full blown Satre surreal and quite possibly would have been better understood under the influence of something! Visually it was spectacular, and Audrey Tautou is always great, but that didn't save it from being incomprehensible. The final film, Muscle Shoals was a documentary and a revelation, L & I loved it. If you love music, this is a must see, read my review here:

 

http://www.reviews-vyv.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/muscle-shoals.html 

And I was thrilled to see North by Northwest, my favourite Hitchcock film on the big screen, follow the link for the review:

 

http://www.reviews-vyv.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/north-by-northwest.html

 

Books Read

I read a lot during June, here is a selection of the best.

 

The Library of Unrequited Love by Sophie Divry, a novella of 92 pages about a librarian and her inner most thoughts, told as a one way conversation to a customer locked in over night. It is sad, funny, snooty and joyous, it's about books, the Dewey Decimal Classification system, her passion for Martin - a researcher who doesn't know she exists and of course her love of literature. Translated from the French it is a must read for all lovers of libraries and literature.

 

The Last Thread by Michael Sala. Michael is a local I discovered at the writer's festival and this is a novel as memoir about his life, growing up, his family and the things that happened as he saw it. His upbringing was difficult with challenging father figures, a depressed mother, lots of moving including countries. Powerful, honest, and heartfelt, I didn't want it to end, I wanted to be sure he was ok, I think he is. It is a book that stays with you long after you turn the last page, a must read.

 

Mateship with Birds by Carrie Tiffany has won lots of awards. Set in the 50s, a young family live in the outback, there is no father, just Mum and the two kids, the rest of the town wonder about them and keep these strange people at an arm's length. A male neighbor keeps an eye on them and develops a close relationship. This was difficult to read, but beautiful. It was very sensual, descriptive, included poetry and lots of bird watching. It's hard to categorize, but you can see why it has been talked about.

The Secret Museum by Molly Oldfield. A Non Fiction book about secret treasures in museums, art galleries and libraries of the world. Loved it so much I reviewed it here:

 

http://www.reviews-vyv.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/book-review-secret-museum.html

Girl Defective by Simone Howell. A teen book set in St Kilda about a family who live above and run a record store. My type of book! It is about looking for the truth, finding your flock and caring for those that are a little different in this crazy old world. I loved it.

 

The Perks of being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. Another teen, this a classic coming of age story, made recently into a film. Wonderful and real, funny and heartbreaking, this is a must read. Especially for those that struggled to fit in and the joy of finding someone similar to you.

 

The Vogue Factor by Kristie Clemons. An autobiography by the former Vogue editor. This was a bit too me me me for me and very vacuous, not exactly The Devil Wears Prada, though you could tell she thought it was...tsk tsk.

At Home by Bill Bryson. I listened to Bill read this amazing Non Fiction history behind the home as we know it and how it changed over the years. Outstanding range of information, that included the obvious and the less so. Mostly brilliant, but at times too detailed. I think it would be a tough book to read, but fascinating to listen to.

 

Getting the Pretty Back by Molly Ringwald. This is a beauty guide to being a strong female type of book laced with small servings of Molly's life, especially from her reign as Teen Queen in the 80s. It was cute, but I wanted more of the autobiographical elements, which really the book was not about. I guess one day she will write that one, and divulge what it was like to kiss Andrew McCarthy...sigh.

 

Mortality by Christopher Hitchens. Hitchens is/was one of my favourite writers, someone whom I did not always agree with but someone who's honesty and morality I adored no matter what. This is a short book, around 100 pages, and put together after his untimely death by Grayden Carter. It is mostly from Vanity Fair columns and contains eloquent musings on cancer, illness, dying, and death. He also includes a lot of research he did, including how to deal with people, how they approached him. He also wrote about writing, something he had not done much of before. How to write and find your voice, outstanding especially when intertwined with how much he hopes he doesn't loose his 'voice' as he becomes more ill. The final chapter is written by his wife, with a little insight into the great man.

 

All that I Am by Anna Funder was the Bibliotweeps June read. I adored Funder's first book, the Non-Fiction Stasiland, so had been keen to read her follow up, this time a novel. About the period before WWII and a group of people who saw very early on that Hitler was no good and how they tried to bring him down. It is told from two perspectives of two of the people. One a man in the 40s just after WWII ended and the other a woman living in Australia in the present looking back at the period. It is thrilling and upsetting and outstanding. The brevity of these people based on events Funder researched and put together with fictional gap filling. It made you think, what would you do in such a position, would you be brave enough to go against hundred of thousands who initially thought Hitler was the second coming?

DVDs watched

I also managed quite a few DVDs, here are some.

Bertolucci's The Sheltering Sky is a modern classic. Starring Debra Winger and John Malkovich as a couple travelling in the Sahara with companion, Campbell Scott. Their marriage is deteriorating, Scott's character interferes. It is a meandering (in a good way), slow paced film, with a few unexpected twists and an odd ending. The acting is excellent and cinematography stunning. In fact, it could be said The Sahara is the star of the film. It's the perfect film for an afternoon where you need to disappear into another world.

 

Grand Designs Series 10, the one I believe that is playing on tele at the moment. I really do have a thing for Kevin McCloud, but the renovations are remarkable. I love the crazy formations of pieces like the very tall water tower into a home, or the quirky builds like the underground art house. But mostly it is the people they pick, more often megalomaniacs with way too much money on their hands.

 

I love documentaries, good quality ones and Ken Burns is one of the best documentary filmmakers there is. His latest series is The Dust Bowl, about the dust storms in America in the 30s. He interviews survivors, has some fabulous still photography and film footage, but mostly it was the amazing tales of heroism against this phenomenal tragedy.

 

The perks of being a Wallflower gave the book a resurgence of interest. About a young boy who does not really fit in with everyone else at his school. He carries with him a history of turmoil that unfolds slowly throughout. He finally finds some friends that get him, outcasts themselves and for the first time he finds he fits in, but at what cost. The young actors playing these characters are outstanding, this is a deep and dark film with splashes of joy and laughter throughout. A perfect teen movie indeed. 

Liberal Arts, starring Josh Radnor as an ex student coming back to his college to celebrate the retirement of his favourite professor, Richard Jenkins. He meets Elizabeth Olsen becomes smitten despite he being much younger. This was a sweet movie and the characters were lovely with depth, but ultimately didn't go that far.

 

Looper - a complicated to explain sci-fi/time travel film that was outstanding. In the simplest explanation, organised crime groups in the future use time travel to send people they want murdered back in time. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is one of the loopers that does the murdering. But when his future self, Bruce Willis, is sent to him, confusion reigns. Emily Blunt is great as a woman who may or may not be the answer to completely cut the loop. Willis and Gordon-Levitt are also great.

 

Dark horse was Todd Solondz's latest, about a couple in their thirties who fall in love. Abe meets Miranda at a wedding, he still lives at home with his suffocating parents, Mia Farrow and Christopher Walken, works for the family business and collects toys. Selma is depressed and self medicates. He finally wears her down and she agrees to meet him on a date, things go a little haywire after this. Part melancholy, part dark, dark humour, this is an odd film, which is usual for Solondz but this felt sloppy in parts and didn't have the awe left by Happiness or Welcome to the Dollhouse, his earlier classics.

Now for three I didn't care much for, I try not to be negative, but also this is to stop you wasting your time on crap too!

 

Hope Springs with Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones as an aging couple who are tired of each other, or more so him or her. They head away for a week of couples counselling. They are great actors, Streep I adore, but something just didn't connect with me. I found it tiresome and boring, and I think they cruised through the movie.

 

Quartet, I was excited about this film directed by Dustin Hoffman about retired Opera singer and classical musicians. It was sweet and simple and the cast extraordinary, but I felt it was a mediocre film. I wanted more passion and Opera and I just refuse to believe people of that calibre would be so annoying later on. Or maybe they were annoying because they were old and couldn't reach the dizzying heights that they had when they were younger, this was touched on as a theme,  but I found myself not caring. It lacked something. I think it's a nice film your grandmother might find sweet. 

Pitch Perfect, the less said about this disgusting dog of a movie the better, I don't know what's worse, the fact I watched it at all, or the fact I watched it to the end, in hope of something good. I think kids would like this, but really anyone above 10 would find it juvenile and tiresome.

And so onto the most magnificent thing I have seen this month, Game of Thrones. I have had both Series 1 and 2 for some time, but just been waiting for time to sit down and watch and so I devoured Series 1 in less than a week. I cannot say how brilliant it is. You have heard it from everyone who has seen it, go and do yourself a favour and watch simply the best television I have seen in a long, long time. 

 

Taken from George R. R. Martin's very popular series of books and indeed shaped by Martin himself, Game of Thrones is a classic medieval tale of Seven Kingdoms ruled by the Iron Throne and those that fight for it. The stories, kingdoms and characters are intertwined and epic, infused with fantasy. Most characters are neither good nor evil, but have a little of both within them, which makes for substantive storytelling. Women are strong and powerful too, which I find awesome. 

 

Stand out characters are Peter Dinklage (who I have loved since The Station Agent) as Tyrion Lannister (smart and funny, but not taken seriously by anyone due to his short stature), Maisie Williams as Arya Stark (on the run disguised as a boy, she will strong and indeed a player of the future) , Jack Gleeson as Joffrey (I am yet to meet anyone who does not want to slice him in half, evil mutant he is), Emilia Clarke as Khaleesi (Mother of the Dragons) and Kit Harrington as Jon Snow (bloody gorgeous, that's all), amongst many, many other great characters.

The sets are spectacular, especially the set of the Night's Watch, with it's massive wall and extraordinary lift that goes up the side of it! I could go on forever, but I shan't, just go and watch if you haven't!

 

Music

I watched Chris Isaak Live, Memphis recordings on DVD, his voice is sexy and sublime, been a fan since Blue Hotel and seen him live, he is delectable and makes great music.

 

I have been listening to a lot of french music, compilations I have found from work and quite enjoying them.

 

I also bought the new She and Him (Volume 3), as always a soulful album of melancholy and sweetness harking back to the late 50s, early 60s. Hypnotic and divine.

 

PS Not as many photos this month as I was without my phone for a few weeks, while it was getting a new motherboard...it was only 5 months old, the less said the better!

DEBORAH CONWAY AND WILLY ZYGIER LIVE AT LIZOTTE'S

My first glimpse of Deborah Conway was on Countdown in the Man Overboard film clip and I was sold. Her voice was unlike anything I had heard before; strong, loud, angry and took no prisoners, but also beautiful and haunting. Do Re Mi was the name of her band, and they were rock/pop with an angsty grunge overtone, before angsty and grunge were used as musical terms! Then the band split and that was that. 

 

During this time Deborah also performed/dubbed the lead vocals for The Takeaways, a fictional band on the television show, Sweet and Sour. Tracey Mann's character sang with Deborah's voice!!! Great show and music though. It was also during this time, that Deborah was with Paul Hester of Split Enz, (then Crowded House), and what a pair they made. 

 

Basically, I wanted to be her when I grew up, I must have been 13 or 14.

 

In the early 90s she released her stunning solo debut album, String of Pearls, one of my all time favourite albums. Its songs of falling in and out of love were the backdrop to a romance of my own at the time, enhancing my love of the album. Her follow up Bitch Epic, with an amazing shot on the front with a nude Deborah covered in chocolate, was also excellent. 

 

She continued to release solo albums during the 90s all of which were great but did not live up to the giddy heights of the first two. She drifted out of the radar of charts and commerical radio in the 2000s, but had continued to release thoughtful albums independently with her husband, Willy Zygier. Willy is an astonishing guitar player and whilst having no real commercial success, I feel they are delivering some of their best work.

 

I saw her live twice in the early 90s and was blown away at her amazing stage presence and that voice, she sounded far better live than she ever did on recordings...which were brilliant! And whilst a band certainly added to the impact of her songs and voice, really all she needed was a guitar and she had you in the palm of her hand. 

 

The second time I saw her my friends' band, The Hipslingers, supported her. This was very exciting, even though the venue was The Castle. I'm sure Novocastrians of refined and real taste would never have had the horror of entering through the front doors of The Castle! Hardly a rock venue and not a venue I would consider attending normally, it was not the right choice for these individuals. I was mortified, but not at all surprised, at how rude the 'audience' were, talking loudly through both performances. That aside, it was an awesome night of superb entertainment.

 

And so the years turn and whilst never forgotten, she hasn't been at the forefront of my musical turntable. Occasionally I would hear a tune, of see her mentioned, and even see her tour, but somehow the stars never aligned.  

 

Then finally, A & I got tickets to see her at Lizotte's last week, and it was sublime. Just Deborah and Willy and amped up guitars. Their latest album, Stories of Ghosts, is a tribute to their Jewish heritage! So deep subject matter, but beautiful songs. 

 

Lizotte's is like heaven for me. I can take or leave clubs and pubs unless a good band is playing. The first time I went there I knew I had come home. It's quirky musical and scrabble tribute stylings, laid back and uncrowded positioning of tables, black and burgundy furnishings. A harp in the old Go Go dancer cage and vinyl records stapled to the walls...even in the bathrooms. If I owned a club, this is pretty much what it would look like.

 

 

There was no support act this night, A & I had a drink and a meal and were waiting on dessert when Deborah and Willy took to the stage.

 

Deborah looked gorgeous in a deep red frock, hair short, and an old acoustic guitar. Willy resplendent in a suit and tie, and a range of guitars and a mandolin.

 

Deborah was loud yet shy, whereas Willy was quiet and restrained yet confident. A complementary couple, comfortable performing together, 22 years Deborah said at one point...making us all feel a little old. Her voice was as stunning as ever, possibly better than I ever heard it, her range gobsmacking, hitting a few operatic notes at times. Willy's guitar playing had me transfixed, he was gentle but a maestro. 

 

They played the new album in order, in its entirety, bar the last song. Deep, philosophical songs, but beautiful and pounding rhythms and melodies, I was impressed. Deborah told little stories along the way, it was a lovely experience, sipping my wine, partaking my dessert, being swept away by their music and their heart and souls.

 

The 'second' part of the show - there was no intermission - featured older songs, a selection that covered over 20 years. They played String of Pearls, the title track from the most popular album, and she was a little reluctant to play it, almost unsure, and Willy had to coax her along. She said she stuffed it up a few shows ago, but maybe the heady heights of the past are hard to live up to. She shouldn't worry, it was beautifully played and well received. She followed it up with Today I am a Daisy, a fun song that I had totally forgotten existed...these are moments I love in a concert. You know an artist so well, but forget the little gems and they surprise you when they appear.

 

They did an encore that featured a Jewish ditty, and a 20s/30s blues song, the name escapes me, but was a perfect showcase for Deborah's deep, amazing voice.

 

And then it was over, we all wanted more. I really wished she had sung my favourite song, Buried treasure, a song that has been resonating more and more with me in recent times, but as the Stones sang, You can't always get what you want!

 

And then came the moment, and this is the reason I most adore Lizotte's, where the musicians come out to the front foyer to sell their CDs. I didn't have the new album, had been holding off purchasing it for this very reason, nor the one before. At 2 for $50, you know you money is going straight to the people who deserve it, I love that!!!

 

So, I lined up, nervous, as much as I adore Deborah, she is a little bit intimidating, those big dark eyes and strong features, I imagine she doesn't suffer fools gladly and neither do I! What do you say, I hate those gushy, vacuous exchanges. The chick before me, got Deborah to sign her gold jacket (yes, gold jacket!), I do not think Deborah was impressed. 

 

I selected my discs, and gingerly approached and of course was a total dope, A reckons I was cool and she was impressed, but she's my friend, she has to say that!

 

I vaguely remember handing over my money and saying great concert or something like that, looked into Deborah's eyes, freaked out and turned my attention to Willy! I told him I thought he was an excellent guitar player, then realised that sounded a bit odd, so I said I knew that from your records, but seeing you made me realise how very good you were. He took it in his stride, as did Deborah. And then in a style, known only to me, I continued (rather than stepping away) and asked him about the transition from guitar to mandolin...something I genuinely was interested in, as have been wanting to do it myself for some time. he gave me some advice and we chatted a bit, Deborah also added he was a great sax player. Again, I couldn't help myself and before I knew it I had uttered the words, I play the flute...WTF!?!?! I then added, oh god, that's so daggy and Deborah replied she thought I'd be a groovy flute player, unsure whether she was genuine or taking the piss, I took the CDs they had so generously signed and disappeared out the front door, mortified but still on that gig high.

 

Funny story nonetheless, and really, so awkwardly me, I am hardly surprised by the exchange at all.

 

I'll include some videos now, for your listening pleasure:

 

Man Overboard with Do Re Mi...featuring lyrics such as pubic hair, anal humour and penis envy!
I sooo wanted that jacket of hers!

Release Me, first track from String of Pearls, great vocals and lyrics.

It's Only The Beginning, the big hit off String of Pearls, fun film clip!

Today I Am A Daisy, from Bitch Epic. Video not great, but sounds good!

A favourite duet from Rockwiz, with Tex Perkins, on Love Hurts (one of my favourite songs)

God, from the new album, with God played by Deborah...of course.

The Writing's on the Wall, also the new album, beautiful.