tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-381031232024-03-14T02:35:53.508-07:00A Heart Can Stop A BulletA tragic chronicle of OBSESSION, PASSION and INCIPIENT TINNITUS from a man Zach Condon once referred to as a "bum".Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.comBlogger1679125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-55870189723945438822023-12-31T09:52:00.000-08:002023-12-31T09:52:56.766-08:00THE BEST LIVE ACTS OF TWO THOUSAND AND TWENTY THREE<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2f8Vq-Dml8LGQc7OXE24Bv3DTy7UscoSYn0_qe45xA1Q_OJHRR-L7MsriDcz8dPExsDxJD84_PDanEvR4klFte6TMeA__V12-A_JSif6n-xELPTHY0AiUUSXm7PIYYhoA2chQSPXNFguYJ7GZ-5cnpGob3Y4GlxayN0PDBjli8qjzUpFdOLhNGg/s2369/IMG_20230822_230515_900.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2369" data-original-width="2369" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2f8Vq-Dml8LGQc7OXE24Bv3DTy7UscoSYn0_qe45xA1Q_OJHRR-L7MsriDcz8dPExsDxJD84_PDanEvR4klFte6TMeA__V12-A_JSif6n-xELPTHY0AiUUSXm7PIYYhoA2chQSPXNFguYJ7GZ-5cnpGob3Y4GlxayN0PDBjli8qjzUpFdOLhNGg/s320/IMG_20230822_230515_900.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> I'd like to dedicate this year's list to my dear friend Spela, a stalwart gig pal, who passed away from cancer last month. She was a real ray of sunshine (except when Joanna Newsom played End of the Road), and we will dearly miss her.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">As always, there were a whole load of very decent bands who didn't quite make the Top 50 but deserve an honourable mention, so thanks to all the following for being great in their own distinct ways: <i>Alicia Edelwiss, Amyl and the Sniffers, Andrew Bird, Andrew Hung, Arooj Aftab, Billy Cobham Blondshell, BODEGA, Broken Records, Confidence Man, DAMEFRISOR, Deary, Divorce, DuoBud, Ed Dowie, Eels, En Attendant Ana, For Breakfast, GOAT (the Japanese one), GROOVE&, Haeparry, Hamish Hawk, Hauschka, Lisa O'Neill, Moin, MOLLY, National of Language, NewDad, O., Otoboke Beaver, Panda Bear & Sonic Boom, Poil/Ueda, Pushpin, Ryota Kikuchi, SCALPING, Screaming Females (RIP), Snooper, STRFKR, The Big Moon, The Necks </i>and<i> Will Sheff</i><i>.<br /></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">And now, without further ado... </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6KrjR8azrqjlbokspIom8hwnyZ08nLLXRAuPi4zr7oBeYuN-FS8oEfqyB1xNhEZr6auJrGAS17x-9efaAPXBDiDzEynuWgNSXwM79rg9gwZ3kvsRYnWAUeloVl1fKTo1YJlHGIKTENqcnWl3JrK1o-BzEnjvAietzQG0hyl-S0iH0inXgBx6XA/s2904/IMG_20230607_222914_236.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2904" data-original-width="2904" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6KrjR8azrqjlbokspIom8hwnyZ08nLLXRAuPi4zr7oBeYuN-FS8oEfqyB1xNhEZr6auJrGAS17x-9efaAPXBDiDzEynuWgNSXwM79rg9gwZ3kvsRYnWAUeloVl1fKTo1YJlHGIKTENqcnWl3JrK1o-BzEnjvAietzQG0hyl-S0iH0inXgBx6XA/s320/IMG_20230607_222914_236.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>50. BE YOUR OWN PET (London Moth Club, 07/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">The Nashville garage-rockers completely passed me by the first time round, but this comeback gig was pretty incendiary (and not just because the Moth Club was roughly 12,000 degrees centigrade). They all look far too young to have been defunct for 15 years! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>49. WILL BUTLER & THE SISTER SQUARES (London Institute of Contemporary Arts, 17/11/23)</b></span></p><span style="font-size: small;">Hyper-energetic
doo-wop synth-pop excellence from the younger *and* non-disgraced
Butler brother and the fantastic Sister Squares. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>48. DEVO (London Hammersmith Apollo, 19/08/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo! It’s a shame most gigs are rendered into an echoey mush by the Apollo’s soundsystem, as all other elements of the New Wave legends’ 50th anniversary/farewell show were as vibrant and joyfully subversive as you'd expect. Many bands have cribbed from Devo over the last half-century, but no-one sounds quite like them. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>47. THE FLAMING LIPS (London Hammersmith Apollo, 28/04/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Wayne's constant need for affirmation was, as usual pretty tiresome, and the sound mix really wasn’t up to scratch, yet experiencing one of my all-time favourite albums in full with the bells, whistles, confetti and giant inflatable robots it warranted was jubilant enough to eclipse any ill-feeling. Plus, that Soft Bulletin-heavy encore could melt even Suella’s absolute-zero husk of a heart.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>46. TINARIWEN (Latitude Festival, 21/07/23) </b> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Tinariwen playing a middle-class music event?! Perish the thought. Yet although the Tuareg desert rock ensemble may have become the default choice for festival bookers looking to make their line-ups a little less...uniform, that doesn't preclude them from being mesmerisingly groovy. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-96mvaIXlUOVRNNcLcwXXS1v22mjEhugMsU0fjfztP6Bgwaf3ODqu9z-gDYOfgsxddEdEK7JV84NNTXSyPBajhw7wYVofKylIjw0ft2GkD5-6XFPElXi_Lc86TL7HJSkC2WGP-bS5tT-Ql6grUOg5TbUWGU1mRo7CfL8MlzdDkeaBOKNbWsuRyg/s4000/20231219_215458.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-96mvaIXlUOVRNNcLcwXXS1v22mjEhugMsU0fjfztP6Bgwaf3ODqu9z-gDYOfgsxddEdEK7JV84NNTXSyPBajhw7wYVofKylIjw0ft2GkD5-6XFPElXi_Lc86TL7HJSkC2WGP-bS5tT-Ql6grUOg5TbUWGU1mRo7CfL8MlzdDkeaBOKNbWsuRyg/s320/20231219_215458.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>45. PATRICK WOLF (London EartH, 19/12/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">My 98th and
final gig of 2023, and who better to spend it with than the majestic Mr
Wolf, performing a freewheeling 2.5 hour long set of B-sides, rarities
and songs that apparently reached No. 69 in the charts. Nice. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>44. LE TIGRE (London Troxy, 03/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A bit of a shaky one at first,
but by the end the bomp had well and truly been put in the
bompalompalomp. <span>JD Samson and Kathleen Hanna both have
such natural magnetism, and 'Deceptacon' inevitably reduced Limehouse to
a smoking crater.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>43. RACHEL UNTHANK & THE WINTERSET (London Barbican, 10/09/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A salute to the dearly missed Paul Whitter, who introduced me to this Northumbrian group 15 years ago. Trad folk isn't my usual wheelhouse, but I fell head-over-heels for the beauty and drama of 'The Bairns' and it was a pleasure to relive that fantastic album so many years on. </span></p><span style="font-size: small;"></span><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>42. BALMORHEA (London Milton Court, 14/07/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">It's been a whole decade since I last caught these Texans in that there London, and I'd forgotten quite how lovely their restrained blend of folk, modern classical and post-rock could be. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>41. SLOTFACE (London 100 Club, 22/11/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Not even a sedate
Wednesday night crowd could quench the exuberance of Norway's premier
pop-punk practitioners, who rattled through no less than 18 songs in an
hour and still found time to crowdsurf. <br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzJZg3xGyh_8W_vX1ybi-ir9N5ePIbZUeRm8prq3RbC_FpjVqnOePCRQPy9bGbyCh-gmoiGGXMDj4dHOswOfXWHUpInbdZnIUkd8TQi5DRfz47sCc5FMXOC00Sa7QtNGLQ9T7O31P82COEjR2hAaBFAEVamBFAteWHzafn9NRsDRH44wDGYo2Pw/s1440/IMG_20231129_093539_405.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzJZg3xGyh_8W_vX1ybi-ir9N5ePIbZUeRm8prq3RbC_FpjVqnOePCRQPy9bGbyCh-gmoiGGXMDj4dHOswOfXWHUpInbdZnIUkd8TQi5DRfz47sCc5FMXOC00Sa7QtNGLQ9T7O31P82COEjR2hAaBFAEVamBFAteWHzafn9NRsDRH44wDGYo2Pw/s320/IMG_20231129_093539_405.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>40. WE INTEND TO CAUSE HAVOC (London EartH, 28/11/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A supremely uplifting show from Zambia's biggest rock band of the 70s and 80s, featuring massive riffs, snazzy clothes, dad jokes galore and yours truly, rocking the cowbell(!) </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>39. COCOROSIE (London Electric Ballroom, 27/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">CocoRosie are an acquired taste to be sure, and I’ll fully admit they sometimes come across as insufferable, but the pairing of the Casady sisters' very distinct voices with beatboxing, harp and genre-agnostic beats really hits the right spot for me </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>38. SARAH NEUFELD (London West Hampstead Arts Club, 26/01/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A virtuoso and unexpectedly epic set from Schrodinger’s Arcade Fire Member at a lovely little West London venue I never knew existed. I actually think that she's now surpassed Owen Pallett as my most seen musician live (39 sets!). </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>37. PUULUUP (London Kings Place, 20/05/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A show I attended simply because the blurb sounded intriguing, and I’m so glad I did- this deadpan Estonian folk duo incorporated elements of DakhaBrakha, Chilly Gonzales and even Dan Deacon to accomplished and surprisingly hilarious effect. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>36. BELAKO (London Camden Assembly, 17/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">This brilliant Basque four-piece tested the tensile strength of the former Camden Barfly to its limits last night with their barrage of electrifying pop-post-punk. A surprise highlight of an exceedingly good June.</span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJk5k2Z8z3ZLeSK85iN0pInksV0aj_TtjlUUTEZYDIPgSmmNz4a854cc3bAcxVHP9lspAUw9785jXH6WMO0XiS0LNQOyTZ8Il_StAXL7Dr-UQKlM800OTNEYx3X8yDNEDhVBBnSgsJfoaCAq0C4d8Nh5qlvLc39LCQvUll3ajpnGXKhJoof9iMAA/s1440/IMG_20231016_214620_568.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJk5k2Z8z3ZLeSK85iN0pInksV0aj_TtjlUUTEZYDIPgSmmNz4a854cc3bAcxVHP9lspAUw9785jXH6WMO0XiS0LNQOyTZ8Il_StAXL7Dr-UQKlM800OTNEYx3X8yDNEDhVBBnSgsJfoaCAq0C4d8Nh5qlvLc39LCQvUll3ajpnGXKhJoof9iMAA/s320/IMG_20231016_214620_568.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>35. METRIC (London Rough Trade West, 16/10/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">What an
absolute treat to see Actual Emily Haines of perform in a 60-capacity
record shop. Only four songs, but every one a joy. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>34. BLUR (London Wembley Stadium, 09/07/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">What better way to end such an incredible couple of weekends than with a bit of ‘Parklife’? Yet while ‘Song 2’ and ‘Girls & Boys’ got everyone singing and dickheads throwing their pints, it's the less boisterous moments - ‘Under The Westway’ (with Damon bursting into tears afterwards), ‘Beetlebum’, ‘Tender’, ‘The Universal’- that will stick with me. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>33. THE LAST DINNER PARTY (London Oslo, 13/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">They're going to be huge, aren't they? They have the stagecraft, they have the songs, they have a lot of industry backing and - very much in their favour in 2023 - they actually have melodies (think ABBA/B52s/Kate Bush) rather than just post-punk basslines. I'm sure many will bounce off their sheer poshness but there's no doubting these ladies have that special something. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>32. SPARKS (London Royal Albert Hall, 29/05/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">It took half a century, but the Brothers Mael finally made it to the Albert Hall. A well-earned and most enjoyable victory lap, even if it lacked some of the, well, spark of shows I’ve seen in less ostentatious venues. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>31. FEIST (London Roundhouse, 09/09/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">The mighty Leslie Feist, performing half "in the round" solo and acoustic; half on stage with her full band. Not even a bizarre smattering of sociopathic chatterers narrating their TikTok videos whilst she was literally performing could ruin this. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvld5S9Ec9uzEYDi7kJdyQb5xdLU25J15N6JzORsJupEKgMrwCwIOCoWFN4Cgldx7os-LtuSAh-BLXZzbra3glF-4GGQNVrAToXaA6_fKqLs0uNxcfviEO9_hmtKitnZSiOHv19GAnwxlCaTzeZHgd4HPLznWzv9n_hVpHwJt32F07Vz-yZImLBg/s3024/IMG_20230813_171042_351.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvld5S9Ec9uzEYDi7kJdyQb5xdLU25J15N6JzORsJupEKgMrwCwIOCoWFN4Cgldx7os-LtuSAh-BLXZzbra3glF-4GGQNVrAToXaA6_fKqLs0uNxcfviEO9_hmtKitnZSiOHv19GAnwxlCaTzeZHgd4HPLznWzv9n_hVpHwJt32F07Vz-yZImLBg/s320/IMG_20230813_171042_351.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>30. THE SUN-RA ARKESTRA- (London The Forge, 10/08/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Marshall Allen was sadly absent this time round (to be fair, he is 99 years old), but the Arkestra's astral jazz continues to send us all to another plane of existence. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>29. JOANNA STERNBERG (London Kings Place, 11/11/23)</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">I have a
long-attested allergy to acoustic guitars, but I really enjoyed this
short, extremely charming set from a mightly promising songwriting
talent. A pinch of Carole King here, a hint of Joanna Newsom there and a
whole ladleful of Kimya Dawson and Daniel Johnston. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>28. THE HOLD STEADY (London Colours, 12/03/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">It’s the Hold Steady, doing their thing (i.e. rollocking bar-room blues overlaid with Craig Finn’s witty, self-referential vignettes of small-town teenage life) and as ever THERE. WAS. SO. MUCH. JOY. An March tradition I hope that goes on for many years to come. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>27. YEAH YEAH YEAHS (London Victoria Park, 25/08/23) </b></span></p><p><span><span style="font-size: small;">A thrillingly triumphant,
“should-have-been-the-headline” set from the legendary Karen O and pals
at an All Points East event ostensibly topped by The Strokes. Dramatic,
eclectic and incendiary. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>26. BLACK COUNTRY NEW ROAD (London Shepherd’s Bush Empire, 11/10/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">I’ve struggled to get to grips with much of BCNR’s post-Isaac material, but this show went a hell of a long way in resolving that. Yes, there’s still some weaker elements, but the second half came precariously close to recapturing the magic of the “old” days and the epic piano ballad ‘Turbines/Pigs’, always the strongest of the new fare deservedly received one of the most enthusiastic ovations I’ve witnessed all year.<br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpIkDc-pO-HvUgWoTVEuB4KisCT27yUdIusealhzbcliy0H05NUrj33jzAeMA5k-6aNKTWgQ_kjRkM24CsfmA-v9Vk7SmNmpIt3RKR-tVB2N67n5lO0-fYk7Rt00zpKwkLKw2dGuXWtUFNX_zv-aSznsmLYBpjKEI-0WLnsBO6578HfBIoXSGew/s1709/IMG_20230618_195745_850.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1709" data-original-width="1708" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpIkDc-pO-HvUgWoTVEuB4KisCT27yUdIusealhzbcliy0H05NUrj33jzAeMA5k-6aNKTWgQ_kjRkM24CsfmA-v9Vk7SmNmpIt3RKR-tVB2N67n5lO0-fYk7Rt00zpKwkLKw2dGuXWtUFNX_zv-aSznsmLYBpjKEI-0WLnsBO6578HfBIoXSGew/s320/IMG_20230618_195745_850.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>25. SOAP & SKIN (London Purcell Rooms, 18/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A sublime
early-evening set from incomparable Austrian singer and Goddess of the
Night Anja Plaschg. Beautiful and brutal in equal measure. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>24. TEETH OF THE SEA (London Walthamstow Trade Club, 07/10/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Dystopian cyberpunk disco vibes in a Walthamstow working man's club with the cheapest pints in London (possibly). Hell yeah!<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>23. SUZANNE CIANI (London Kings Place, 11/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">An honour to once again experience the 77-year old modular synth pioneer in action. The quadrophonic soundscapes weren't quite as uncompromising as EartH last year, but the intimacy of Kings Place lent them more warmth. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>22. DEERHOOF (London Lafayette, 21/08/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">There are few acts that could genuinely be described as “one-of-a-kind” but Deerhoof must be on that list. A thrilling set even by their uncompromising standards, I could happily watch John Saunier’s spasmodic drum stylings for hours. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>21. BLONDE REDHEAD (Bristol Thekla, 10/12/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A stunningly sumptuous comeback from the blissful alt-rock trio, delivering noise and lusciousness in equal measure. They were a bit crap when I saw them back in the day, but this was leagues better.</span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxeqDKzJqLZ3NEf5DeOaGey2UG-Zvlfyr8IDRChW79AVRDcKtF99eKSzoOwZJ-QjXBdjpniPULVC7V1fbddiEf2aErD4iKjU3oOU0dVaEtZMvz-C5W3DZmVi3MwXqusLelQD8CBV4NuYge7BtwIONNEtm3DJ7hs3OTCp_1uIzul4ReCzMNDomsQ/s1440/IMG_20230218_222644_851.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxeqDKzJqLZ3NEf5DeOaGey2UG-Zvlfyr8IDRChW79AVRDcKtF99eKSzoOwZJ-QjXBdjpniPULVC7V1fbddiEf2aErD4iKjU3oOU0dVaEtZMvz-C5W3DZmVi3MwXqusLelQD8CBV4NuYge7BtwIONNEtm3DJ7hs3OTCp_1uIzul4ReCzMNDomsQ/s320/IMG_20230218_222644_851.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>20. TITUS ANDRONICUS (London Moth Club, 18/02/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Genuinely
can't believe it's been almost seven years since I last saw a non-solo
Titus show and in honesty I'd forgotten quite how much I bloody love
them. Arrived at the venue in a hyperglycemic slump, ended the show in
the mosh-pit for "A More Perfect Union" - now THAT'S what I call a
band! <br /></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>19. MELODY’S ECHO CHAMBER (London Scala, 15/03/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Waited a decade to see Melody Prochet live, and she exceeded even my sky-high expectations with ninety intoxicating minutes of classic French dream-pop. Felt suitably celebratory too, as in 2017 a serious accident left her with a brain aneurysm that could have ended her career for good. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>18. A.P.A.T.T (London Cafe Oto, 13/10/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Every seven or so years, a batshit collective of Liverpudlian oddballs enter my life, perform a genre-hopping set that sounds like Penguin Cafe covering Deerhoof, or Beefheart covering Beirut or something different altogether then disappear into the æther. That band is a.P.A.t.T and I think they're bloody brilliant. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>17. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN (London Hyde Park, 08/07/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">The 2016 London show was better, if only because it had The Greatest Encore in the history of live music, but this was another 3-hour tour-de-force from the electrifying, stupefying, awe-inspiring, age-defying E! Street! Band! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>16. JOE HISAISHI (London Wembley Arena, 22/09/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Almost ten percent of my life passed between me purchasing tickets for Joe Hisaishi and me attending said concert, so I was gratified that it ultimately exceeded even my Castle-In-The-Sky-high expectations.
So many heart-stirring Ghibli moments, but Kiki's Delivery Service,
Ponyo and Princess Mononoke elicited honest-to-God feelings, and there’s
something about a full scale orchestral/choral rendition of the Totoro
theme that could dispel the darkest gloom. Wonderful. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0sAR8FqqgJf58UZ329qqj28dk00EljgwE2ipgPxLJ_y2aI-rbmkuLFpbycSdl0I-iV-gP7Beg-Nuq8m9-yOR6QH_DEXxMsTCxGLI-OpOwn1qgOZWL-iiMmzLN9VSmAUxusX2OlDL1VkRfp8UjQTxPtc080uAwLQmvoe3GXWgcfwqB5HATcQYtNg/s3024/IMG_20230521_225918_060.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0sAR8FqqgJf58UZ329qqj28dk00EljgwE2ipgPxLJ_y2aI-rbmkuLFpbycSdl0I-iV-gP7Beg-Nuq8m9-yOR6QH_DEXxMsTCxGLI-OpOwn1qgOZWL-iiMmzLN9VSmAUxusX2OlDL1VkRfp8UjQTxPtc080uAwLQmvoe3GXWgcfwqB5HATcQYtNg/s320/IMG_20230521_225918_060.webp" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>15. THE BURNING HELL (London Dalston Victoria, 21/05/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">What
I love about this band (apart from the sharp wit, dazzling
musicianship, "Fuck The Government" singalongs etc. etc.) is just how
much laughter inevitably ensues, both on stage and off. Always such a
genuinely uplifting experience, no matter how you're feeling
beforehand. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>14. CALEXICO (London Electric Ballroom, 02/11/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">17 years since I first saw them, Calexico's fusion of Americana and brass-punctuated Mexicana remains as vibrant and celebratory an experience as it's ever been, although this playthrough of 2003's "Feast of Wire" was also a high-spirited reminder that they're not unafraid to sprinkle in other styles and genres too. Perhaps the most reliably excellent live band touring today. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>13. CAROLINE ROSE (London Heaven, 05/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Well, that was quite the *journey*- from the celestial synth choir of "Love/Lover/Friend" (a true goosebump moment) to moments of self-doubt and stage fright, to gyrating behind a bemused security guard, to an all-out riot grrl finale. An unanticipated gem of a show. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>12. BELL ORCHESTRE (London Queen Elizabeth Hall 25/01/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A rare UK outing by the Arcade Fire-adjacent instrumentalists, tonight accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra. A genuinely stunning, heart-stirring performance full of colour and subtlety. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><b>11. OWEN PALLETT & THE HIDDEN CAMERAS (London EartH, 10/04/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">One
of the plus sides of my road-trip to Croatia meeting an unexpectedly
early terminus was that it allowed me to catch the artist formerly known
as Final Fantasy on these shores for the first time in eight years,
ably accompanied by veteran “gay church folk” balladeer Joel Gibb.
Needless to say, it was outrageously good, and "The Great Elsewhere" and
"Lewis Takes Off His Shirt" will never fail to clobber me in the
emotions. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAqjDOZYBrbTDFj1x0QGKvenX7sNyuDR6BO_ZLqx7zJYxGFk5C1oPhv4UjCBxVm4ZJCIKkoC3xqwnriUWIJw4JQDZAatgbFzj7128CyMDYTZXLTP-L1XE0XQHM5diC4Z-aBblER4l4B4rWe0ChTXotPKtUgJ8LQZgIbIFq3xJS9fyxQKFeFYAuQ/s2291/IMG_20230623_101733_895.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2291" data-original-width="2290" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAqjDOZYBrbTDFj1x0QGKvenX7sNyuDR6BO_ZLqx7zJYxGFk5C1oPhv4UjCBxVm4ZJCIKkoC3xqwnriUWIJw4JQDZAatgbFzj7128CyMDYTZXLTP-L1XE0XQHM5diC4Z-aBblER4l4B4rWe0ChTXotPKtUgJ8LQZgIbIFq3xJS9fyxQKFeFYAuQ/s320/IMG_20230623_101733_895.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>10. KISHI BASHI (London Union Chapel, 22/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">The great showman of the string-looping world finally makes it to Union Chapel, and it’s inevitably a match made in heaven. I’ve seen him do the “acoustic encore in the middle of the audience” thing several times before, but it’s somehow even more extraordinary in a venue that beautiful.<br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmz4xPl1Jp6grwu6NJMhvBsdBwlQAT9HxKFY8KVsMHV2a9N50QphbRjTDZvgEPzxIkSktJfqsA7QLKB_HMX2C7iWQxaRS72glGko2UGv8teqQmFu1bhMXXFlqrSclUg6My7yIVTBuddpdteOGvB_1rqJDoiLGk4snmL_LFY4FWvB8PhKLA5hyhA/s2963/IMG_20230401_124716_354.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2963" data-original-width="2963" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmz4xPl1Jp6grwu6NJMhvBsdBwlQAT9HxKFY8KVsMHV2a9N50QphbRjTDZvgEPzxIkSktJfqsA7QLKB_HMX2C7iWQxaRS72glGko2UGv8teqQmFu1bhMXXFlqrSclUg6My7yIVTBuddpdteOGvB_1rqJDoiLGk4snmL_LFY4FWvB8PhKLA5hyhA/s320/IMG_20230401_124716_354.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>9. THE GO! TEAM (London Lafayette, 31/03/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">An 80 minute explosion of genre-mashing technicolor fun from Brighton's premier joymakers. Loved seeing Ninja's kids bopping side-stage, although it was a bit sobering that my first Go! Team gig (Feb 2005) clearly predated the birth of more than a few members of the audience. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKnAqXwevAduONYe3pFbYL45V5ch7pn7uOOP6RhJ_MsuTWYeqlWxgKKsmZdOaXHnqzxVe8pf2f1H3Hk9VTdQoiDVge29VEu8ZSyhUUGcQZseW5rw1N_JqsiLZ2u7okhwKdXWw5aX4G3TarE3BTKnOVi9lqT4sPahBRPdx8SV8HbfC_8BBc7bstA/s1440/IMG_20231119_111729_594.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKnAqXwevAduONYe3pFbYL45V5ch7pn7uOOP6RhJ_MsuTWYeqlWxgKKsmZdOaXHnqzxVe8pf2f1H3Hk9VTdQoiDVge29VEu8ZSyhUUGcQZseW5rw1N_JqsiLZ2u7okhwKdXWw5aX4G3TarE3BTKnOVi9lqT4sPahBRPdx8SV8HbfC_8BBc7bstA/s320/IMG_20231119_111729_594.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>8. RED SNAPPER (London Rich Mix, 18/11/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Four consummate musicians generating levels of groove that could power one of George Clinton's Motherships = my new favourite new (actually pretty old) band?. Cracking cover of Sound & Vision too. Can’t believe I’d never seen them before; I’ll be unlikely to miss an opportunity to see them again. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuaegvoOqut1oPtvykEga0Vh6Mzehs6qXDGLgLLyV2HwU77kGSftb8DNiSQ2WiHaBZYUOjtQbwyEXB0ohIW3u0QJFfvr5SsY29N5AMufzi77qt6nVguAzkvooudBFPqJ-cJBn8mcwBzQ7I_OBenu8zbaqXjh7Wv9mhwzuEewsVi3aCa1VnUKWuw/s1440/IMG_20230830_093731_523.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuaegvoOqut1oPtvykEga0Vh6Mzehs6qXDGLgLLyV2HwU77kGSftb8DNiSQ2WiHaBZYUOjtQbwyEXB0ohIW3u0QJFfvr5SsY29N5AMufzi77qt6nVguAzkvooudBFPqJ-cJBn8mcwBzQ7I_OBenu8zbaqXjh7Wv9mhwzuEewsVi3aCa1VnUKWuw/s320/IMG_20230830_093731_523.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>7. THE WALKMEN (London KOKO, 29/08/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Well, that was one for the ages! A brave move to dispatch The Big Hit only 4 songs into the set (and my Lord, how spectacular that was), but the likes of "Angela Surf City" and "Heaven" were received just as, if not more, rapturously. Plus, fair play to the refurbished KOKO - the sound was superb AND the air-con was on-point. I’m not even the biggest Walkman fan, but I can’t think of a single way this could have been bettered.<br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rkN3WxaeAP3CHBJDxIjT8ee9DvDEkWfN4kLD3xDZnPWzXLn13nTyXDh-gQ0m1Q4V6mVvSOjOveErt2jUddXpIsMwyPZGhhJ2tk-zcrwirxN3esdSztu2lWZfC2_6DkplV0m9CAXA5WQB_uAblN-4YoCEpm06a7EqI0vwt6hk8TJCJ8BALKPryA/s3024/IMG_20230616_221519_858.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rkN3WxaeAP3CHBJDxIjT8ee9DvDEkWfN4kLD3xDZnPWzXLn13nTyXDh-gQ0m1Q4V6mVvSOjOveErt2jUddXpIsMwyPZGhhJ2tk-zcrwirxN3esdSztu2lWZfC2_6DkplV0m9CAXA5WQB_uAblN-4YoCEpm06a7EqI0vwt6hk8TJCJ8BALKPryA/s320/IMG_20230616_221519_858.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>6. SIGUR ROS (Wasing Estate, 02/07/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">A prestine, powerful (</span><span style="font-size: small;">the sheer roar of 'Glosoli' nearly knocked me off my feet)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> and mesmerising Greatest Hits set from the Icelandic trio, performing in a verdant forest amphitheatre. Their sophisticated and unexpectedly subtle orchestral concert at the Southbank a couple of weeks earlier was certainly more of an 'event', but I can't deny in terms of pure enjoyment that this was the one for me. <br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIa7M2WaiVA4riu1VBxuw-uIR7dQzmy7EYmC3jbPDQV20cFmdDOj-bl1sYci3UciYL94hpqqeryKahvJzs4a1GZ10syF9h_v1HZ2MdKXQGLpa-rDIbyu36H5Mav7eXcNg1ihYG_yy1fGFYJxHWP7YQYymgqGNU3OSdCzY1cMI1Mrf9Mj_VK4AHQ/s1440/IMG_20230212_231747_954.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIa7M2WaiVA4riu1VBxuw-uIR7dQzmy7EYmC3jbPDQV20cFmdDOj-bl1sYci3UciYL94hpqqeryKahvJzs4a1GZ10syF9h_v1HZ2MdKXQGLpa-rDIbyu36H5Mav7eXcNg1ihYG_yy1fGFYJxHWP7YQYymgqGNU3OSdCzY1cMI1Mrf9Mj_VK4AHQ/s320/IMG_20230212_231747_954.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>5. STARS (London Lafayette, 11/12/23-12/12/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Two tremendous, celebratory, heart-warming shows from the Canadian indie-rock stalwarts, featuring The Wedding Present’s David Gedge on "Elevator Love Letter" and Canadian music stalwart Murray Lightburn providing bonus Dears content. I’ve said this many times about Stars, but their earnestness is their greatest strength; they may be a bit corny at times but God, they’re a joy to share a room with. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9HYrLNF7Sz26V9d8C_4iMReqtpwD4sFVfEWF1hSyKfH1ufpq0b3GQobcdXOL4d74Qnfm3P__Hb3vyMqii5RP2zr_mLQMNEPjd3x_3UpxO9A6vQjDCMJ85iJ8xMZ4etb85CCwGgwhucSZlPZU6sSMjqk7ws5TZQJUMo9GlcDV9Pzu5sPuXfYVJiw/s1850/IMG_20230630_012153_988.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1850" data-original-width="1850" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9HYrLNF7Sz26V9d8C_4iMReqtpwD4sFVfEWF1hSyKfH1ufpq0b3GQobcdXOL4d74Qnfm3P__Hb3vyMqii5RP2zr_mLQMNEPjd3x_3UpxO9A6vQjDCMJ85iJ8xMZ4etb85CCwGgwhucSZlPZU6sSMjqk7ws5TZQJUMo9GlcDV9Pzu5sPuXfYVJiw/s320/IMG_20230630_012153_988.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4. M83 (London Roundhouse, 29/06/23) </b></span></p><p><span><span style="font-size: small;">Anthony Gonzales somehow constructed a set
that almost entirely ignored the existence of “Tomorrow=Youth”, yet still delivered one of the most astounding musical experiences of the year. Like
being washed away in a glorious tsunami of sound. </span></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSQfbLHp5G7srTxGbUBMi_idh3mhh9UOpzr6jgBw_r0NPoEsz3RXrKq4S-iczDa0hbgxBFwmztanriEGHU2C-X7_ImI1fW1li9BlmmjUobyibilI-66MAnOlJ7WPk7e_I_IQ9paOuDqTeD8oJYPtqG3zs-e-Hqz7HdeNZVyPUdmV_pPpnpBGqqew/s2636/IMG_20230421_232616_140.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2636" data-original-width="2636" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSQfbLHp5G7srTxGbUBMi_idh3mhh9UOpzr6jgBw_r0NPoEsz3RXrKq4S-iczDa0hbgxBFwmztanriEGHU2C-X7_ImI1fW1li9BlmmjUobyibilI-66MAnOlJ7WPk7e_I_IQ9paOuDqTeD8oJYPtqG3zs-e-Hqz7HdeNZVyPUdmV_pPpnpBGqqew/s320/IMG_20230421_232616_140.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>3. SUNSET RUBDOWN (Seattle The Crocodile/Portland Doug Fir Lounge, 21/04/23-22/04/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">There are vanishingly few bands I would consider travelling to another continent for, but the moment I heard Sunset Rubdown were reuniting for a few dates around North America, it became inevitable that my bank balance was going to take an kicking. Were these objectively the best gigs I’ve ever seen? No. But sometimes being in a room full of like-minded people singing along to painfully obscure mid-Noughties Canadian indie-rock about ghosts, snakes, horses and all of the above with all the gusto a long-starved fandom can muster is as exhilarating an experience as one could possibly have. <br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJo22xESLSbmRuLU5pXKEDERknTaRgKLygiJ7AZEHGyJoK2Q5WmJo2sd-whT5IaP2DwFj0rSpvAHvnzK9bBnysHSXlQqbzYK9C9-Nt3ywofuL6GeHAJfdmut40pc3aZp8iQLjpGs13H0ewUnqG_DrPavxTPWdsqUBqgneMwA4bMbSOTlwl604NQ/s1807/IMG_20231212_232206_109.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1807" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJo22xESLSbmRuLU5pXKEDERknTaRgKLygiJ7AZEHGyJoK2Q5WmJo2sd-whT5IaP2DwFj0rSpvAHvnzK9bBnysHSXlQqbzYK9C9-Nt3ywofuL6GeHAJfdmut40pc3aZp8iQLjpGs13H0ewUnqG_DrPavxTPWdsqUBqgneMwA4bMbSOTlwl604NQ/s320/IMG_20231212_232206_109.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>2. ORCHESTRE TOUT PUISSANT MARCEL DUCHAMP (London Cafe Oto, 12/12/23) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">I have seen literally thousands of musical acts over the last two decades, but I don't think I've experienced one that so gloriously encapsulates everything I adore about live music than this 13-piece Swiss ensemble. Part Chrome Hoof, part Penguin Cafe, they are chaotic, scintillating, beautiful, noisy, exciting, technically dazzling and most of all, a hell of a lot of fun. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-LKMcyE87DUNJwMJvsnutZxGXnQfP2p-BVmg59-Q67bcTbkYBIL7_mTMNFz61gChSnpOIatDdJVOGwWh5_jjYuP4pL8x7y3h3Cl1xjvn8aX0uLwUZa8zzHtqOLO-l7WpFk4QOfK787dfUDETXxP9elH6TeOuNUtIa3Uvg3uyrLaT132CZIF5gg/s2716/IMG_20230702_012646_211.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2716" data-original-width="2715" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-LKMcyE87DUNJwMJvsnutZxGXnQfP2p-BVmg59-Q67bcTbkYBIL7_mTMNFz61gChSnpOIatDdJVOGwWh5_jjYuP4pL8x7y3h3Cl1xjvn8aX0uLwUZa8zzHtqOLO-l7WpFk4QOfK787dfUDETXxP9elH6TeOuNUtIa3Uvg3uyrLaT132CZIF5gg/s320/IMG_20230702_012646_211.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. PULP (London Finsbury Park, 01/07/23)</b> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;">Well, that wasn't really much of a surprise, was it? I did have the absolute pleasure of attending Pulp's first show in 11 year at Bridlington Spa and it was glorious (Jarvis remains as phenomenal a frontman as ever), but their grand day out in London just had more polish, more atmosphere and dare I say...more razzamatazz (note: they did not actually play that song). Some may quibble the setlist was a little safe, but I loved every sordid, thrilling, revelatory, witty, danceable, anthemic moment of it and I'm counting down the days until I see them again next June.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">(And
for previous editions of this self-indulgent nonsense, now in its
1</span></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">7</span></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">th
year, here are the lists for </span></i></span></span></span></span><span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2007/01/top-fifty-one-gigs-of-two-thousand-and.html">2006</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2008/01/best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2007</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2009/01/yup-its-that-time-again-best-live-acts.html">2008</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2009/12/best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and-nine.html">2009</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2011/01/best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and-ten.html">2010</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2011</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2012</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2013</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2014</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/the-best-live-acts-of-twothousand-and.html">2015</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/thebest-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2016</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2017</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2018/12/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2018</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2019/12/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2019</a><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
</span></i></span></span></span><a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2021/01/t-hebest-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2020</a></span><i>,</i><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">
<a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2022/02/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2021</a></span></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;"> and <a href="http://aheartcanstopabullet.blogspot.com/2023/01/the-best-live-acts-of-two-thousand-and.html">2022</a>
sadly the photo links are STILL busted but I plan to sort that out
before </span></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">the
heat-death of the Universe</span></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span lang="en-GB"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">. Until the next time!) <br /></span></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></p><br /><br /><br />Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-75106308735376656092023-12-31T07:20:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:20:07.978-08:00PATRICK WOLF (London EartH, 19/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTzhsncAP8Ju91DblRl-kOr7_lmZ5cn2ja1A6aLVS1ASYnprswl_XrpKa3sqGcleUYirQAEiIKJ5FqGZG-WEMAKsWiK0tq5gPtVnr2xbcl7-mJ1h1EghJqd2oTJNSp4TCLgAs2m6yDaMlKkmJO2sJO8YbkOrhemL8vhHGLE35tV0ppkh5tySY-w/s4000/20231219_215458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTzhsncAP8Ju91DblRl-kOr7_lmZ5cn2ja1A6aLVS1ASYnprswl_XrpKa3sqGcleUYirQAEiIKJ5FqGZG-WEMAKsWiK0tq5gPtVnr2xbcl7-mJ1h1EghJqd2oTJNSp4TCLgAs2m6yDaMlKkmJO2sJO8YbkOrhemL8vhHGLE35tV0ppkh5tySY-w/s320/20231219_215458.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>My 98th and likely final gig of 2023, and who better to spend it with than the majestic Mr Wolf, performing a freewheeling 2.5 hour long set of B-sides, rarities and songs that apparently reached No. 69 in the charts. Nice. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-57713064544658608862023-12-31T07:18:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:18:10.369-08:00THE BIG MOON (London Union Chapel, 18/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_0olTyHaFrxvAwmRAsiLWv8Es9Pm75xPD714Djek7PPRc_U1_rc755q-j9glMMgzfPEGfQyRb837dvNEUz4LEzx2w4TAEZCQ0CC7iYU0IBUPLDrwBcgl8eHZDGsm8rtVrQwhbQSrY9bk2z6TMcS9Pkfb6n20_1FqX6k_FCUT7_b4sRjWWX7UXQ/s1526/IMG_20231219_102244_232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1526" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_0olTyHaFrxvAwmRAsiLWv8Es9Pm75xPD714Djek7PPRc_U1_rc755q-j9glMMgzfPEGfQyRb837dvNEUz4LEzx2w4TAEZCQ0CC7iYU0IBUPLDrwBcgl8eHZDGsm8rtVrQwhbQSrY9bk2z6TMcS9Pkfb6n20_1FqX6k_FCUT7_b4sRjWWX7UXQ/s320/IMG_20231219_102244_232.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Can't say I was overly familiar with the all-female London indie-rockers except for an Ezra Furman support slot in 2015, but I truly enjoyed this- lovely harmonies, classy string arrangements, and a warm, festive atmosphere. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-13967109661375570432023-12-31T07:16:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:16:24.764-08:00PANDA BEAR (London Heaven, 14/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtUIcNVJitvYIUqu7qlZM83JiJ9t2e8iCyMVAQxhvL2mSc641NaV7Wmu4W-glpzSzuHnGqaK2l-RAvnIxMFbuULVIoglXzgpr_kXP0J20B7RXq9ELgrypWfk2PTuDSUiv46-Fil9fVDixGr2GqXEOhZ2EPTCn675A4kfPTwybkVeJEIfxycifMw/s1790/IMG_20231215_085509_537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1790" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtUIcNVJitvYIUqu7qlZM83JiJ9t2e8iCyMVAQxhvL2mSc641NaV7Wmu4W-glpzSzuHnGqaK2l-RAvnIxMFbuULVIoglXzgpr_kXP0J20B7RXq9ELgrypWfk2PTuDSUiv46-Fil9fVDixGr2GqXEOhZ2EPTCn675A4kfPTwybkVeJEIfxycifMw/s320/IMG_20231215_085509_537.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>My 7th gig in 7 days, and truth be told I was starting to seriously flag but I unexpectedly fell in love with this album last year and felt obliged to check it out live. And though I've not enjoyed my prior Panda Bear live experiences (more noodly than a ramen factory), this featured all the chill grooves, Beach Boys-esque harmonies and hypnotic visuals a tired old man could desire.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-30800524071106124382023-12-31T07:14:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:14:17.675-08:00ALICIA EDELWEISS (London Green Note, 13/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFn61iTEeJRyUdlS7XZ5eEQHYNoc04BJ8AlKTi6Kp3ND0w_YQKShs_3DAqPSrm6cnsvUUSfeRYPFYRUL7NkBBPWuK-dZkd8KUL1Y4Mxf6-uA23lmQ9t5SP8QlEr2Eqs_RweeNV_g-pLGv_Va8suBI81BuYd07F_7E1auDjtSl1ewwAm-lQbP0r8A/s1353/IMG_20231214_000618_942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="1353" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFn61iTEeJRyUdlS7XZ5eEQHYNoc04BJ8AlKTi6Kp3ND0w_YQKShs_3DAqPSrm6cnsvUUSfeRYPFYRUL7NkBBPWuK-dZkd8KUL1Y4Mxf6-uA23lmQ9t5SP8QlEr2Eqs_RweeNV_g-pLGv_Va8suBI81BuYd07F_7E1auDjtSl1ewwAm-lQbP0r8A/s320/IMG_20231214_000618_942.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>An evening featuring German folk tunes, Daniel Johnston covers, hula hoop skillz and a talented, quirky Austrian-Welsh multi-instrumentalist destined to capture that cultural space that’s been gradually vacated by Amanda Palmer.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-7588772190915540792023-12-31T07:12:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:12:39.395-08:00ORCHESTRE TOUT PUISSANT MARCEL DUCHAMP (London Cafe Oto, 12/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoyA1YbIJPQlK4D11DM_QDr-6gpT3wvwl_8hrHFKPxIQj3CeehB4ysVjvpZSR2ba6JAUbiRX7i3tKsWo58QWD_4Bl9lShubogBQ6wSKHQH5rq2HaQv1JY7rnxkeRLKg5AMrRBlTCyaMr8_1rlechq0Se7FE7cFzbWiud834R_1ZQusv-beSo-OQ/s1807/IMG_20231212_232206_109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1807" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoyA1YbIJPQlK4D11DM_QDr-6gpT3wvwl_8hrHFKPxIQj3CeehB4ysVjvpZSR2ba6JAUbiRX7i3tKsWo58QWD_4Bl9lShubogBQ6wSKHQH5rq2HaQv1JY7rnxkeRLKg5AMrRBlTCyaMr8_1rlechq0Se7FE7cFzbWiud834R_1ZQusv-beSo-OQ/s320/IMG_20231212_232206_109.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I have seen literally thousands of musical acts over the last two decades, but I don't think I've experienced one that so gloriously encapsulates everything I adore about live music than this 13-piece Swiss ensemble. Part Chrome Hoof, part Penguin Cafe, they are chaotic, scintillating, beautiful, noisy, exciting, technically dazzling and most of all, a hell of a lot of fun. Gig of 2023? Up there, certainly. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-51729827473688104732023-12-31T07:03:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:03:04.133-08:00STRFKR (London Garage, 11/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzciF7ZJVCgSTumxuMmxbx00vSV-6ke4o44I593irFgkxVBCz2-FjHhL1_ZVR5MW0202GnlpuoR_jko0PuE2U4XRUSyicQWkZMe8w0jkmcwEXdjreiLtdZ-Z6dYK6be_Uv2YKUNezQFHvMUFt6Ta2nHDDIpeRpxD1xMFy8YMTix5fKXgQc4L68cA/s1177/IMG_20231212_231645_055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1176" data-original-width="1177" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzciF7ZJVCgSTumxuMmxbx00vSV-6ke4o44I593irFgkxVBCz2-FjHhL1_ZVR5MW0202GnlpuoR_jko0PuE2U4XRUSyicQWkZMe8w0jkmcwEXdjreiLtdZ-Z6dYK6be_Uv2YKUNezQFHvMUFt6Ta2nHDDIpeRpxD1xMFy8YMTix5fKXgQc4L68cA/s320/IMG_20231212_231645_055.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>These day-glo synthpop maestros last graced the UK over a decade ago, and as someone who recalls watching them in a half-empty pub in Kentish Town circa 2009, it was heartening (if slightly unexpected) that they sold out the Garage this time round. Their vibe is a little more chill and less high energy than back in the day, but a more aged me is basically fine with that, and their cover of "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" remains a campy joy. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-21561524864539974512023-12-31T07:01:00.000-08:002023-12-31T07:01:31.798-08:00BLONDE REDHEAD (Bristol Thekla, 10/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXypgIaTPulfkQ5arTw8ziy3tf-HhIiCQiwdJbMNTKMQkh07DyLcmH-zpLC2oYvm5l6IbhYMojZxrWz1-IUUWCoZZvjiG3H8udZbHWMcLrhPLNiqCrvKclS4uwuVD1B9yemCtJ_yrS4wQkulAt_Yp2XWKlFC70mef_2kJt9l3HyKjv3Wfs5TN1nA/s1359/IMG_20231210_230051_913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1359" data-original-width="1358" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXypgIaTPulfkQ5arTw8ziy3tf-HhIiCQiwdJbMNTKMQkh07DyLcmH-zpLC2oYvm5l6IbhYMojZxrWz1-IUUWCoZZvjiG3H8udZbHWMcLrhPLNiqCrvKclS4uwuVD1B9yemCtJ_yrS4wQkulAt_Yp2XWKlFC70mef_2kJt9l3HyKjv3Wfs5TN1nA/s320/IMG_20231210_230051_913.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>A stunningly sumptuous comeback from the dream-poppy alt-rock trio, delivering noise and lusciousness in equal measure. A huge step-up from the previous times I’ve seen them.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-91954971454043253312023-12-31T06:59:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:59:59.076-08:00DAYLIGHT MUSIC (London St John’s Bethnal Green, 09/12/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQR62ksksjSaYDW4q6NY5LOKvjiEi-GHzdtdsx3ihFwXpw8ua9Beb58vRRkZTthpDizNwX_tG5Hs_2m1uw-sFoy49-RObe2uA2DvC9a1uBL4tRvnr62wT1E93XupEEA2gxhtaf9eo6rfEELWLhSvsoLmqtx3OyjKN3R5uS30jXZJb1qn8TWul8w/s1379/IMG_20231209_132552_689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1379" data-original-width="1379" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQR62ksksjSaYDW4q6NY5LOKvjiEi-GHzdtdsx3ihFwXpw8ua9Beb58vRRkZTthpDizNwX_tG5Hs_2m1uw-sFoy49-RObe2uA2DvC9a1uBL4tRvnr62wT1E93XupEEA2gxhtaf9eo6rfEELWLhSvsoLmqtx3OyjKN3R5uS30jXZJb1qn8TWul8w/s320/IMG_20231209_132552_689.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>I may be a lazy bugger, but I actively try to drag myself out for the final Daylight Music of the year because sipping (non-alcoholic) mulled wine in an old church listening to pretty music is always a fine way to spend a lunchtime. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-13056621767498829322023-12-31T06:58:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:58:25.651-08:00NEWDAD (London Third Man Records, 08/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnx9NnZCS8GET0Wzhk00S4MgSCiQOfOaBYHFf-wWrEuhbQvg91udLqYivE4YFAqOFrKTbyQEm3yT6tW2x9Aqn6EIxj5LCY5ER3nqUh14Q1SGwbZPa-cDJEhr0tJl5V_LpOt4n2jq466wHqHoSoqa9K61EsHzfMLsUq3CmuktzCY-1avFMl4of05A/s1507/IMG_20231208_212435_844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1507" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnx9NnZCS8GET0Wzhk00S4MgSCiQOfOaBYHFf-wWrEuhbQvg91udLqYivE4YFAqOFrKTbyQEm3yT6tW2x9Aqn6EIxj5LCY5ER3nqUh14Q1SGwbZPa-cDJEhr0tJl5V_LpOt4n2jq466wHqHoSoqa9K61EsHzfMLsUq3CmuktzCY-1avFMl4of05A/s320/IMG_20231208_212435_844.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Good craic from Galway's No.1 alternative beat combo, showcasing their upcoming debut album ‘MADRA’.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-41074018291960931592023-12-31T06:55:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:55:44.559-08:00SLOW PULP (London Garage, 06/12/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJ88ravJFBGok5eoPyYx7huh9cZdE82c6ZbzVRufVy23HPONjuOEE8yovE9qyagCMnEFa7D6p3yOLdaeS3caRvMzj0pHEElSAt8QsNS_o9DnGbEe2KCFv61Nvd4oZFgj_C-BObMRLDBwc1sGqXMbBhx8BgrPbug9eWZxnlCRvrp2g3TKIyaeosg/s1440/IMG_20231207_231447_391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJ88ravJFBGok5eoPyYx7huh9cZdE82c6ZbzVRufVy23HPONjuOEE8yovE9qyagCMnEFa7D6p3yOLdaeS3caRvMzj0pHEElSAt8QsNS_o9DnGbEe2KCFv61Nvd4oZFgj_C-BObMRLDBwc1sGqXMbBhx8BgrPbug9eWZxnlCRvrp2g3TKIyaeosg/s320/IMG_20231207_231447_391.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Not to be confused with the more averagely-paced Pulp I saw earlier this year. Fine, I guess. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-72041371739365700732023-12-31T06:51:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:51:55.854-08:00MOIN (Leeds Brudenell Social Club, 02/12/23)
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMjWxpqlCLLaSXrynazZqdYWLHrjj7xAFLYAJKjLXR1qv0A82uApm7o_fgtvjh99hOfkXFvG-sgbLtvHo0i2KbIkcnqAX-IFj1pu9NEFrAD0dXv_DLVrZ_FhNfhnpd6jezL3SWBmuW-7qvATjeWKBQD9W_Joa1I1RzfyOqGXJww-fZNXuqZyylA/s1040/IMG_20231203_222409_337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="1040" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMjWxpqlCLLaSXrynazZqdYWLHrjj7xAFLYAJKjLXR1qv0A82uApm7o_fgtvjh99hOfkXFvG-sgbLtvHo0i2KbIkcnqAX-IFj1pu9NEFrAD0dXv_DLVrZ_FhNfhnpd6jezL3SWBmuW-7qvATjeWKBQD9W_Joa1I1RzfyOqGXJww-fZNXuqZyylA/s320/IMG_20231203_222409_337.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Raucous post-hardcore antics from experimentalist duo Raime and Italian percussion supremo Valentina Magaletti that impressively attracted a full house on an evening best described as "cold as balls".</span> Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-15698851043063170062023-12-31T06:49:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:49:58.380-08:00WE INTEND TO CAUSE HAVOC (London EartH, 28/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDw-PEq7GqlAq9_6nWADrRqe5RE3BXcIvEgspjplrf0YAZYLWi1edR19vK2bmE2SlSrNEOmStP8iO2lEwT_0HNP1Z_8v1is_DAdvZ2_KQIdVVI1g6vWZXk8TiDdTYBCCjPd3LGzLafHkCdXWGCW9mbi463maGj3XEgdlvbymyrWHS2pMnq-VHeLw/s1440/IMG_20231129_093539_405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDw-PEq7GqlAq9_6nWADrRqe5RE3BXcIvEgspjplrf0YAZYLWi1edR19vK2bmE2SlSrNEOmStP8iO2lEwT_0HNP1Z_8v1is_DAdvZ2_KQIdVVI1g6vWZXk8TiDdTYBCCjPd3LGzLafHkCdXWGCW9mbi463maGj3XEgdlvbymyrWHS2pMnq-VHeLw/s320/IMG_20231129_093539_405.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>A supremely uplifting show from Zambia's biggest rock band of the 70s and 80s, featuring massive riffs, snazzy clothes, dad jokes galore and yours truly, rocking the cowbell(!)</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-32558349876019118872023-12-31T06:45:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:45:59.576-08:00O. (London Third Man Records, 24/11/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGq0h1MUfwoUpxLwm4CtCSnc-3dpaPq3qLXDietWzAnRBIS2RsWBWlkxis3eJi9dekqAKVDH4oePGT6qkH4060g2bMv4QAh8APB9bdzbI481kJQMsVSCTUodsq8B64mZMZmimKGQFlZVJN5kcGd9Ts5NkSnm0VKcQ1P-Q4nN5krgvUXPUpe0891g/s1440/IMG_20231124_213131_107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGq0h1MUfwoUpxLwm4CtCSnc-3dpaPq3qLXDietWzAnRBIS2RsWBWlkxis3eJi9dekqAKVDH4oePGT6qkH4060g2bMv4QAh8APB9bdzbI481kJQMsVSCTUodsq8B64mZMZmimKGQFlZVJN5kcGd9Ts5NkSnm0VKcQ1P-Q4nN5krgvUXPUpe0891g/s320/IMG_20231124_213131_107.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Been meaning to catch this hotly-tipped sax-and-drums duo since the beginning of the year, and their scuzzy genre-hopping racket proved worthy of the hype. The Comet Is Coming and Party Dozen have a worthy rival!</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-91386554902452485632023-12-31T06:43:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:43:46.001-08:00SLOTFACE (London 100 Club, 22/11/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxNxuHuLwgBAamvmXmFjyScRpdig9BkRlGOzeavTka0Z0c7mCys11X8P__Koc6s9A_VaoDQpEMxotMCscKR6s1E28q7fF2Qn0yjI1rEz2QXf1lCO26Qmax7W-2IXYn0m83qc37W57WHXpGaq1CKRj3Qpk8zMcf9EXSvos8JAC6Bc0ttNgD2u1aw/s1440/IMG_20231123_002857_089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxNxuHuLwgBAamvmXmFjyScRpdig9BkRlGOzeavTka0Z0c7mCys11X8P__Koc6s9A_VaoDQpEMxotMCscKR6s1E28q7fF2Qn0yjI1rEz2QXf1lCO26Qmax7W-2IXYn0m83qc37W57WHXpGaq1CKRj3Qpk8zMcf9EXSvos8JAC6Bc0ttNgD2u1aw/s320/IMG_20231123_002857_089.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Not even a sedate Wednesday night crowd could quench the exuberance of Norway's premier pop-punk practitioners, who rattled through no less than 18 songs in an hour and still found time to crowdsurf.
</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-17139359291353241482023-12-31T06:33:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:33:10.468-08:00THE NECKS (London Kings Place, 20/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgIVjcIpRS8f3yA-omSLt5l6h7l0PsCSdgY732IIZ1HUSKhtsfjjvGM7QeGehCppt2HobcX6KqPu6CY-25lUoP1KzYyv1Qzkttw3hXmQvPvrnxnkFhULSaBbW9GspfwCT7Nlgl0I0oQvfkdIpupLBO2T3XcPqu8J-IkzKRNKhb8C4g3TDgxQe6Q/s1718/IMG_20231120_224834_223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1289" data-original-width="1718" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgIVjcIpRS8f3yA-omSLt5l6h7l0PsCSdgY732IIZ1HUSKhtsfjjvGM7QeGehCppt2HobcX6KqPu6CY-25lUoP1KzYyv1Qzkttw3hXmQvPvrnxnkFhULSaBbW9GspfwCT7Nlgl0I0oQvfkdIpupLBO2T3XcPqu8J-IkzKRNKhb8C4g3TDgxQe6Q/s320/IMG_20231120_224834_223.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Caught the legendary Australian improv trio in action and finally understand what the fuss is all about. With just a piano, double bass and percussion, they create two entirely original pieces on the fly (the latter tending to lean more “intense” than the former); their obvious psychic connection means this seems almost effortless on their part even though the actual level of musicianship is astounding. Almost had to break up a fight on the way out though, because avant-garde audiences can be quite aggressive...</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-314266909888772682023-12-31T06:31:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:31:29.924-08:00RED SNAPPER (London Rich Mix, 18/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwdY5dGFyVgKmaPq1ISkyJSozkhc1LA1a4xYnCbGpZcUY9KObsPPEYB_5HmD8YAhUsjQU6fyz2xi2VntfuhsGqKZbCaR-8kZf__Yrhr6ytJoQGxljZxIKcbfyQYBaW2h6hdLYbSF05FIY_jWqj7JBfoefcvgXrFVLGdB1DWtkkRBPhW-LOfeHtQ/s1440/IMG_20231119_111729_705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwdY5dGFyVgKmaPq1ISkyJSozkhc1LA1a4xYnCbGpZcUY9KObsPPEYB_5HmD8YAhUsjQU6fyz2xi2VntfuhsGqKZbCaR-8kZf__Yrhr6ytJoQGxljZxIKcbfyQYBaW2h6hdLYbSF05FIY_jWqj7JBfoefcvgXrFVLGdB1DWtkkRBPhW-LOfeHtQ/s320/IMG_20231119_111729_705.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Four consummate musicians generating levels of groove that could power one of George Clinton's Motherships. Cracking cover of Sound & Vision too. Can’t believe I’d never seen them before; I’ll be unlikely to miss an opportunity to see them again. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-31214339986069724252023-12-31T06:28:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:28:29.782-08:00WILL BUTLER & THE SISTER SQUARES (London Institute of Contemporary Arts, 17/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscU-HIQxh3YtYzJaiykwMM9OlItQceipy1agjwgwSI1XXWxXU19neh7FjUh-jIHypJtMzxQCyk3KMC2bcsomE2ErQ3eoVFbgScfxKgEXJuIdOss1Y7EJ4aEOryOh41wkI8MIIdGwydW_PM41v0a5DCZazW4V6EluJQSlUs9FSKu2laeitM8QZiA/s1440/IMG_20231117_233445_091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscU-HIQxh3YtYzJaiykwMM9OlItQceipy1agjwgwSI1XXWxXU19neh7FjUh-jIHypJtMzxQCyk3KMC2bcsomE2ErQ3eoVFbgScfxKgEXJuIdOss1Y7EJ4aEOryOh41wkI8MIIdGwydW_PM41v0a5DCZazW4V6EluJQSlUs9FSKu2laeitM8QZiA/s320/IMG_20231117_233445_091.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Hyper-energetic doo-wop synth-pop excellence from the younger, non-disgraced Butler brother and the fantastic Sister Squares. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-35296433252254999322023-12-31T06:26:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:26:16.146-08:00DEARY (London Rough Trade West, 17/11/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVqa0YLmQcaiWs06z1qE0lM7okk0Y9ARJqVSGR0fc5JR28t9GNRW70hbk3j_M4MkA2NirL2SuoGvucxkDtcv4lZGChtDexhAc2pAZpDGUxcMvE0UZcQAkMnfWMx-CNimjIJKNaBusfy7BJYGmBEb_Whhc0As-ChN6Yvxs07gg8O7NrufGtbUFZA/s1411/IMG_20231117_231532_143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1411" data-original-width="1411" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVqa0YLmQcaiWs06z1qE0lM7okk0Y9ARJqVSGR0fc5JR28t9GNRW70hbk3j_M4MkA2NirL2SuoGvucxkDtcv4lZGChtDexhAc2pAZpDGUxcMvE0UZcQAkMnfWMx-CNimjIJKNaBusfy7BJYGmBEb_Whhc0As-ChN6Yvxs07gg8O7NrufGtbUFZA/s320/IMG_20231117_231532_143.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>A gossamer-delicate acoustic set from the amiable shoegazers.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-86414882792352166022023-12-31T06:24:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:24:37.587-08:00JOANNA STERNBERG (London Kings Place, 11/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJPRBMx6aBZ_1FCba5bEMYDk8lJySrUC5lD55f1QXbUavYgLxJIoLAObj5eaTKHdm-q6CJRObiafFRRyqX5n6OLAitYzJnR_PpLXUI1GTBQryF5nheGGmcRqvs-DxVgaSTNra-TwPcAFdtadUIeTQhz8NogqqSw3axlifqYwLRctXZZ8_BwVAWA/s1164/IMG_20231112_105238_287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1164" data-original-width="1164" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJPRBMx6aBZ_1FCba5bEMYDk8lJySrUC5lD55f1QXbUavYgLxJIoLAObj5eaTKHdm-q6CJRObiafFRRyqX5n6OLAitYzJnR_PpLXUI1GTBQryF5nheGGmcRqvs-DxVgaSTNra-TwPcAFdtadUIeTQhz8NogqqSw3axlifqYwLRctXZZ8_BwVAWA/s320/IMG_20231112_105238_287.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I have a long-attested allergy to acoustic guitars, but I thoroughly enjoyed this short, extremely charming set from a mightily promising songwriting talent. A pinch of Carole King here, a hint of Joanna Newsom there and a whole ladleful of Kimya Dawson and Daniel Johnston. </span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-34615268340642059562023-12-31T06:20:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:20:39.556-08:00GOAT (London Kings Place, 10/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d3VYntNBVyv-Ci0xLP-TuV8FpG60Vs9PsKLSe2C3oSUqZf_b_uOyl4WRb1fDB3mKjzyGKzz5CjYFZ6C42cUmYFtsPLLoMgVgMpyAvTIP_BVPS2-nUotW5IroIb9DK-YFvh7TPJk6zmDPEhXXoyBVP5vlltZxHSHS_R5tM3OK8lEsGpkvD1IOug/s1433/IMG_20231111_104223_724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1075" data-original-width="1433" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4d3VYntNBVyv-Ci0xLP-TuV8FpG60Vs9PsKLSe2C3oSUqZf_b_uOyl4WRb1fDB3mKjzyGKzz5CjYFZ6C42cUmYFtsPLLoMgVgMpyAvTIP_BVPS2-nUotW5IroIb9DK-YFvh7TPJk6zmDPEhXXoyBVP5vlltZxHSHS_R5tM3OK8lEsGpkvD1IOug/s320/IMG_20231111_104223_724.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>At least 12 gigs worth attending on the same night, but I went with the mad Japanese experimentalists because that's the oddball I am. Percussive, discordant, intense and LOUD...very much my cup of sake.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-76128530694220999502023-12-31T06:18:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:18:03.913-08:00SNOOPER (London Third Man Records, 09/11/23)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6-MO40wOal4Xpr3c3qwFp5XFNEsmmR2VCWFQdWy1sKY1lpSj3YKYGO-2RR4VFws0hg3TNUvbMmXk5E7UEicKcmSFs2fvaXNHlprKO9haSUHRAyxNkkkLJCTP6r8RewTR7axZxheIAkRuDlfmhxCUgENc-boqhocL8hrwUiGpSds2VZj-HV0GSQ/s1049/IMG_20231109_231650_222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1049" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6-MO40wOal4Xpr3c3qwFp5XFNEsmmR2VCWFQdWy1sKY1lpSj3YKYGO-2RR4VFws0hg3TNUvbMmXk5E7UEicKcmSFs2fvaXNHlprKO9haSUHRAyxNkkkLJCTP6r8RewTR7axZxheIAkRuDlfmhxCUgENc-boqhocL8hrwUiGpSds2VZj-HV0GSQ/s320/IMG_20231109_231650_222.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">35 minutes of sheer anarchy in the basement of Jack White's record shop - just what the doctor ordered.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-42589633512525673432023-12-31T06:15:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:15:01.187-08:00HAUSCHKA (London Milton Court, 06/11/23)<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXbHGQY2qQqBNyJqW7cT2NBNt9hqOoypZvOE-t53czaCaTtkAJ-Jwpa-m1C1RJLD2uqHpSshDaKi9JzTs5jDZmmT2EC1N-DWqgHE7dsQ6P75KieR3cVXW6Zy6lCU8BxXEohcaFVOn6lIPEcO59f7KV81PbJrzxfOaZ8CuhX1RCnOEo0aD5-U4Lw/s1209/IMG_20231108_102553_124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1209" data-original-width="1209" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXbHGQY2qQqBNyJqW7cT2NBNt9hqOoypZvOE-t53czaCaTtkAJ-Jwpa-m1C1RJLD2uqHpSshDaKi9JzTs5jDZmmT2EC1N-DWqgHE7dsQ6P75KieR3cVXW6Zy6lCU8BxXEohcaFVOn6lIPEcO59f7KV81PbJrzxfOaZ8CuhX1RCnOEo0aD5-U4Lw/s320/IMG_20231108_102553_124.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The ever-genial Volker Bertelmann has come a long way since I saw him play a toy piano at Northampton Square Bandstand (I mean, he's won an Oscar since!) but his ingenuity, playfulness and preference for risk rather than perfection remains as evident as ever. Plus, he still uses a prepared piano with ping-pong balls and that makes me smile.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-68161637173168408012023-12-31T06:12:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:12:33.193-08:00CALEXICO (London Electric Ballroom, 02/11/23)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKCGe2iDeMA6_Ot4XnETZC0sVTUmt9BXA96WD71b4Hsi3GzNaNzyCwygRIdbUtyb1lpnRhOOffilegWTRDuAQT7sHBXo0EdDRebVAzSd3-Y6rMdz_Rm9xgWcngRx1lWfzP5O1kEFXvlVydOW_uwBSvzBDUCor8LDs7T-20gO0RMKCIv_5HfE0OQ/s1440/IMG_20231102_233550_281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKCGe2iDeMA6_Ot4XnETZC0sVTUmt9BXA96WD71b4Hsi3GzNaNzyCwygRIdbUtyb1lpnRhOOffilegWTRDuAQT7sHBXo0EdDRebVAzSd3-Y6rMdz_Rm9xgWcngRx1lWfzP5O1kEFXvlVydOW_uwBSvzBDUCor8LDs7T-20gO0RMKCIv_5HfE0OQ/s320/IMG_20231102_233550_281.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">17 years since I first saw them, Calexico's fusion of Americana and brass-punctuated Mexicana remains as vibrant and celebratory an experience as it's ever been, although this playthrough of 2003's "Feast of Wire" was also a fun reminder that they're not unafraid to sprinkle in other styles and genres too. Perhaps the most reliably excellent live band touring today.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38103123.post-92187418142318288232023-12-31T06:09:00.000-08:002023-12-31T06:09:41.681-08:00BLONDSHELL (London Lafayette, 01/11/23)
<span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhFQq0Apo3q7OOmQx4fELdTE3R33lzRbZkGt-0M5JY9f75AlfHu8uZhqQChUPujPE-I-tHXeRSwET70VhIMPFtSnqjF3b_1jiTueFoIvbFf9gMqLRv1sSaGE6nuxLYSw4aQfP7pECPLe-mLYchexja_SbWYTW0KINBqCvz98qjbcluF-gBmFgZQ/s909/IMG_20231102_234513_348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="909" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhFQq0Apo3q7OOmQx4fELdTE3R33lzRbZkGt-0M5JY9f75AlfHu8uZhqQChUPujPE-I-tHXeRSwET70VhIMPFtSnqjF3b_1jiTueFoIvbFf9gMqLRv1sSaGE6nuxLYSw4aQfP7pECPLe-mLYchexja_SbWYTW0KINBqCvz98qjbcluF-gBmFgZQ/s320/IMG_20231102_234513_348.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>An unexpectedly lively set from the LA indie-rocker, more upbeat than you might expect from the lyrics. I’m always a sucker for a ‘Deceptacon’ cover too, although illness precluded me from catching the whole show.</span>Citizen Mehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03518430470298893625noreply@blogger.com0