80s (and sometimes 00s) Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ Tim Langan

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Time to meet a wonderful current artist who would have been vital in my favorite musical decade, as he is today. Tim Langan has a very full and impressive musical resume. He gave me the opportunity recently to get to know him and I’d like to share the experience with you. Be sure to take the time to check out Tim’s music on YouTube, as well as the various websites posted at the end of the interview.

Tim_bass_3Tell us about who or what (or both!) has influenced your music.

From the time I was very young, I have known that I wanted to be a musician. My very early experiences in grade 1 involved singing the National Anthem first thing in the morning.

My mother likes to recount a story of being called in to the school by the principle and being told that I had a very good voice and they were recommending that I be sent to a choir school, as they felt that I had a sense for music inside me. She and my father decided that I was a little bit too young to be travelling downtown on the subway every day for school, so they decided instead to get me involved in piano lessons.

What is your first significant musical memory?

The singing of the National Anthem was one of the very first things that I remember about my discoveries in music; however, there were a few other things that were to come that also stick out in my mind.

I was the youngest in my family. My 3 older brothers liked music a lot. They were between 11 and 16 years older than me. I remember for my eleventh birthday getting 2 vinyl records. One was Elton John’s Greatest Hits and the other was Paul McCartney’s Band On The Run. I was hooked. I also enjoyed sports as a kid and used to spend hours hitting a tennis ball against our garage door. My brother had a Volkswagen beetle with an 8-track player in it and I remember specifically listening to Jeff Beck’s “Wired” over and over again while smashing the tennis ball off of the garage door. I must have listened to that album 1000 times as a kid and still enjoy giving it a listen today.

CD CollageHow soon after that did you decide that’s what you wanted to do?

I have almost always had a sense of wanting to be a musician from a very, very young age. It has always seemed like the natural and obvious thing for me to do.

In fact, I have tried to make it “go away” on several occasions, but it just won’t seem to leave me alone.

What was your first group/band and what part did you play?

My first performance with a band was in grade 8 when I performed with 2 friends at our grade school. We played 3 songs together. I believe we opened with Elton John’s “Rocket Man” with myself playing piano with drum and guitar accompaniment. Then I switched over to bass guitar duties and we performed Edgar Winter’s “Free Ride” and Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven” – I don’t recall whether any of us wanted to actually sing these songs, so we may have played them as instrumentals. I find it amusing that this still seems to be a trend for me in my own writing, as the vast majority of the music that I am involved with, somehow seems to bypass the urge to add vocal to the song.

The name of this band was “Jupiter” and my next door neighbor, who was 4 years older than us wanted to be our manager and went out and bought us matching bracelets that had “Jupiter” engraved on them. We used to joke, what could be stupider than calling a band Jupiter?

The drummer in that first group was my lifelong friend Sascha Tukatsch, whom I have had the privilege to write and record with on so many projects over the years, including our high school band, which started as Reign, which would later be released on CD under the name “The Harrison Fjord”

Do you prefer to perform in the studio or live? Why?

Tim_bass_1

I love both. The studio offers the very unique experience of capturing your ideas and how you were feeling at that exact moment for the rest of time. That is very special indeed.

The live experience is also very special, because there is a nervous energy and adrenaline that is created from performing in front of people, with the pressure of wanting to perform perfectly and put on the best show possible for all of the people who have come out to see you play.

What inspires you to write your best music?

This is a difficult question to answer. Inspiration is taken from so many potential sources. Music is also very subjective, so who can really say what is “best?”

My own compositions are so varied in style from one to the next that I have a hard time trying to define what it is that grabs me or guides me in a certain direction. Usually, I am just a conduit that the music flows through. Most of the music that I write happens very quickly, indeed. People, places and events are most often secondary to the writing process. In peak writing times, I just sit down and compose and usually at the end of the day/night I have a finished piece of music, whether it is a short pop ditty or a full orchestral score.

Tim_bass_2What was the best concert you’ve ever attended and what made it so special?

Concerts are a wonderful experience for me. I usually do not attend massive venues, as most of the musicians that I tend to be inspired to watch, are lesser known, virtuoso types of players.

While I have been to may rock shows in large venues, like Supertramp, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Queen, Aerosmith and Rush in the late 1970′s, it is the acts that perform in the smaller venues that I truly cherish.

Performances by Al DiMeola, John McLaughlin & Paco DeLucia with Steve Morse as the opening act, The Pat Metheny Group, Frank Zappa, Weather Report, Return To Forever, Yes, Uzeb, King Crimson, Joe Satriani, Youssou N’Dour, Level 42, Adrian Belew, Marillion, Hugh Marsh, Manteca, Bela Fleck & The Flecktones, Alain Caron, David Sanborn, Marcus Miller, Steve Vai, Victor Wooten, Dream Theater, King’s X, Michael Manring, Fishbone, UK, Zappa Plays Zappa, Tommy Emmanuel, and Porcupine Tree are stand outs in my mind over the years; but probably one of the greatest shows that I ever saw was Andreas Vollenweider and friends on Oct 16, 1989. My reasons for liking this show specifically over all of the others is musicality. The inspiration that I drew from all of these shows is incalculable, but this one Andreas Vollenweider show was indeed something very special.

If you had a “do-over,” what would you do differently?

While I do read and write music, perhaps I would have tried to go to a “music” school to acquire a piece of paper with my name on it, although, I guess it is never too late?

What’s coming up next?

I have been quite busy this year adding my musical voice to many different recording projects. I have recently finished playing bass for a guitarist, singer, songwriter, named John Jamieson. I am hopeful that this CD will be completed and ready for release by the fall.

The Green Rain ProjectAlso, I have recently re-connected with a guitar player friend of mine that I worked with about 20 years ago. Her name is Irene MacKenzie and she is very talented indeed. Irene called me, asking if I would record with her and her son MacKenzie Coburn on a piece of music that she wrote for her Mother, who had passed away from pancreatic cancer 20 years ago, shortly before MacKenzie was born. I had always enjoyed working with Irene and given the music that she and her son were jamming on, I immediately agreed. We initially sent a bunch of ideas back and forth through the sky drive in a common email account over the internet and when we were ready, I drove out to their home studio to record my bass and keyboard parts on the CD.

We are currently in mixing and mastering for this debut CD and I am very anxious to get this one out. The CD will be released under the name “The Green Rain Project” and the disc will be entitled “ToRUTH” – Irene and I have talked a great length at working on many more CD’s together, as the music for this CD came together very quickly.

Another project that I have been recording and performing live with is “Lisa Smith’s Powerhaus” – I had been asked to join this band after Lisa Smith Powerhouse_4they had released their debut CD “Maze Of Souls” and we have been working to put the finishing touches on the band’s second CD – “612″ – I am hopeful that this disc will be completed and released later this year. I am confident that this disc will be well received by fans and critics alike, as I feel the writing is very strong within the rock genre.

I have also been recording and performing with The David Bacha Band. This has been quite a long term project for me and I am hopeful that 2013 will be the year that we finally get this one to the market. We shall keep our fingers crossed.

David Bacha Band_2Lastly, I continue to write and record at my home studio, as this is just something that I have to do to maintain my sanity.

I have my entire musical catalog, (11 CD’s) which does not include the 5 CD’s that I was commissioned to do for a friend’s record company, that I am trying to get remastered and up for sale online. It would be a major achievement for me to get all of these up to CD Baby and iTunes this year, I remain vigilant in trying to complete this task.

What advice can you give to aspiring musicians?

Follow your dreams, work your butt off to be the very best you can be and don’t stop doing what you love for any reason.

Where can people listen to and purchase your music?

While some projects are currently available for purchase online (try Google to search out the band names) some are available through CD Baby or iTunes – (The Harrison Fjord – Machine Tree / Splub – Splub )

Most of my catalog is not currently available for purchase, although I am trying to rectify this problem.

Should you wish to check out a lot of my music and several of the bands that I have played with and currently am playing and recording with, I have over 100 videos, slideshows and music posted at my youtube channel, which can be found at:

http://www.youtube.com/TimsTunes/

Also, be sure to check out these related sites:

John Jamieson – http://www.johnjamieson.ca

The Green Rain Project website, which is still under development, but can be found here: http://www.greenrainproject.com

The David Bacha Band: http://www.davidbacharocks.com

Lisa Smith’s Powerhaus website: http://www.lisasmithspowerhaus.com

The Harrison Fjord website: http://www.theharrisonfjord.com

80s Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ I Start Counting

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I start countingIf you’re lucky, you’ll remember this short-lived electronic band from North London. If you’re like me, you haven’t a clue who they were, but after listening to them, you’ll know you missed out on something really good. Fortunately, a dear rare 80s blogging buddy featured them on his blog Mine for Life a few years ago, otherwise I may never have had the pleasure of experiencing them

Electronic, poppy, somewhat dark, somewhat trippy….all the major ingredients for 80s music success, right? Once again and in this case, something was definitely missing in the equation; like so many other talented artists, this band went totally under the radar.

I Start Counting was actually a duo made up of college friends David Baker and Simon Leonard, who, according to Wikipedia, shared a love of pop music. The Wikipedia article goes on to report:

Baker and Leonard had met at Middlesex University; both had affection for pop music. In 1982 they began to DJ together which led to them to form the I Start Counting project. Leonard specialised in the technology side and Baker was biased toward the musical side of the project. They approached Daniel Miller with some demos of their recorded material. These demos led to Mute Records signing the duo in 1984.

In 1986, I Start Counting recorded and released their debut album, My Translucent Hands. This accomplishment led to them becoming a I-Start-Counting-My-Translucent-Handssupport act for Erasure the following year. They released a second album in 1989, Fused, which included a new version of “Lose Him” comprised entirely of sampled voices.

The duo would morph into two more groups, Fortran 5 and Komputer, migrating to a different sound and experimenting with the dance/techno genre. Needless to stay, the enduring success they deserved eluded them, and they faded into 80s rarity oblivion.

Purchase I Start Counting music here.

Discography

As “I Start Counting”

1986 – My Translucent Hands (Mute Records)
1989 – Fused (Mute Records)

As “Fortran 5″

1991 – Blues (Mute Records)
1993 – Bad Head Park (Mute Records)
1995 – Avocado Suite (Mute Records)

As “Komputer”

1998 – The World of Tomorrow (Mute Records)
2002 – Market Led (Mute Records)
2007 – Synthetik (Mute Records)
2007 – Intercom (Self-released)

I Start Counting ~ Letters to a Friend ~ via YouTube user GeneLovesBowdie:

I Start Counting ~ My Translucent Hands ~ via YouTube user The Jesbel:

I Start Counting ~ Modern Sunbathing ~ via YouTube user MilesFiles2008:

80s Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ Hoodoo Gurus

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hoodoosOnce again, I am at a loss to explain what could have possibly happened that this gifted band from Australia was not a huge hit in the states. From what I understand, Hoodoo Gurus got massive airplay on college radio stateside, but that’s about it. Thank goodness college/alternative radio had some good sense back then, otherwise so many of these criminally underrated bands would have suffered from complete US airway indifference.

I know I sound like a broken record, but I am so glad to have the chance to go back and revisit what I’ve missed thanks to the annoyingly misguided and downright stupid decisions made by clueless suits in boardrooms as to what got airplay and what didn’t during the most vital musical decade ever. (Huge intake of breath.) But I digress….hoodoos2

Hoodoo Gurus formed in Sydney Australia circa 1981, and was initially comprised of Dave Faulkner, (songwriter, lead singer and guitarist), Kimble Rendall (bass, guitar, backing vocals), Roddy Radalj (guitar, backing vocals), James Baker (drums), and Clyde Bramley (bass guitar, backing vocals). Shortly after, the band reformed into its more well-known lineup of Faulkner (original), Richard Grossman (bass), Mark Kingsmill (drums), and Brad Shepherd (guitar, vocals, harmonica).

They had a string of hits throughout the decade in their homeland of Oz and a strong, enduring popularity on US college radio. Refusing to ascribe to a single sound, the Gurus’ music spanned many genres including power pop, psychedelic rock, and punk. They recorded 7 albums from 1984 until 1996, then came back with two more albums in 2004 and 2010.

hoodoos3

But, you say, you’ve never heard of them? Frustrating, isn’t it? Well, now you have.

Check out their music (some of which is posted below via YouTube), then expand the horizons of your 80s collection (and your mind) by making your purchase here. Be forewarned: if you’re looking for heavy, industrial music, you won’t find it with the Gurus. But, if you’re looking for a musical lift, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

Discography

1984: Stoneage Romeos
1985: Mars Needs Guitars!
1987: Blow Your Cool!
1989: Magnum Cum Louder
1991: Kinky
1994: Crank
1996: Blue Cave
2004: Mach Schau
2010: Purity of Essence

Hoodoo Gurus website.

Hoodoo Gurus ~ Bittersweet ~ via Youtube user nzoz1985:

Hoodoo Gurus ~ What’s My Scene ~ via YouTube user jazztronic:

Hoodoo Gurus ~ Come Anytime ~ via YouTube user amlimabr:

Hoodoo Gurus ~ A Place In The Sun ~ via YouTube user miketheblueeagle:

80s Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ Abecedarians are Back!

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AbecedariansI can hardly contain my excitement. There have been rumblings over the past couple of years of a re-release of Abecedarians music. The moment has finally come!

Bassist John Blake contacted me a couple of months ago to let me know this long-awaited treat was on the verge of becoming a reality. It was hard to keep quiet about this news, but I didn’t want to spoil the delicious anticipation that fans all over the world have been experiencing.

Ashirt

I received my copies of both Eureka on vinyl and CD and the Eureka “Bonus” CD this past week. Also available from the Pylon Records site are Eureka color vinyl, an Abecedarians leather iPad cover, and T-shirts in both tan and dark blue.

Track listings are as follows:

Eureka double vinyl or single CD

GhostsAE
Soil
Beneath the City of the Hedonistic Bohemians
I Glide
Mice & Coconut Tree
Misery of Cities
Smiling Monarchs
Benways Carnival
Switch
Other Side of the Fence
They Said Tomorrow
Wildflower
John’s Pop
Spaghetti Western

Bonus CD (included in select packages only)

AEsleeve

Ghosts
Soil
Come Out
Where’s Karen
Classic
Beneath the City of the Hedonistic Bohemians

Get yourselves over to Pylon Records and order your Abecedarians merchandise and music now. Or, if someone you know is struggling with what to get you for a gift this holiday season (or for any occasion whatsoever), drop a big hint that they should indulge your Abecedarians music cravings.

Abecedarians ~ I Glide ~ via YouTube user missparker0106

Not included in the re-release, but one of my favorites.

Abecedarians ~ Dinner ~ via YouTube user missparker0106

80′s Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ Frozen Ghost/ Sheriff

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Short-lived, yet talented–that’s what we’re all about here at Rave and Roll.  Frozen Ghost, a Canadian 80s new wave band founded by Arnold Lanni (vocals, guitars, keyboards) and Wolf Hassel (bass, vocals), is no exception, with one slight twist.  Lanni and Hassel were also previously members of another short-lived and talented band called Sheriff. The 80s was a decade of band-hopping and “six degrees of separation,” and Frozen Ghost fits right in with that scenario.

To make matters more interesting, Frozen Ghost and Sheriff became rock chart competitors. Lanni, who owned the rights to Sheriff’s name, benefited from both bands’ royalties, so it turned out to be a successful business venture for him. Unfortunately, this somehow watered down the drive to make Frozen Ghost a musical force, and they ended up disbanding in 1993 after a long-awaited and mediocre album release.

Check out the band’s first two album releases: Frozen Ghost (1987) and Nice Place to Visit (1988) to experience the essence of what Lanni and Hassel had to offer before the musical waters were muddied. This is Canadian 80s at its finest, and another example of how regional music was criminally underrated and under-promoted here in the states.

Frozen Ghost ~ Round and Round ~ via YouTube user frozenghostsongs:

Frozen Ghost ~ Should I See ~ via YouTube user kurdtss:

Frozen Ghost ~ End of the Line ~ via YouTube user frozenghostsongs:

80′s Music Rules ~ Music to Grieve By

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August 24, 2012

Dear Dan,

Rest in peace my best friend, my constant companion, my beloved. You fought valiantly against the horror of a disease, Churg Strauss Syndrome, that left your body ravaged and destroyed. But the illness never dampened your strong will, your courage, nor your wicked sense of humor. We both made sure it never stole your dignity, nor your indomitable spirit.

Thank you for the best years of my life, for being my biggest fan, and for always cheering me on when I felt lost and defeated. In return, I hope that you knew how much I loved (and will always love) you and how strongly I encouraged your daily fight. I am a better person because of you, and a lost soul without you.

You are forever my role model and my hero.

All my love,
Sandy
xo

Peter Murphy ~ I’ll Fall With Your Knife ~ via YouTube user barriovideopro:

Gary Numan ~ You Walk In My Soul ~ via YouTube user ChildIncomplete:

Roxy Music ~ More Than This ~ via YouTube user memorylane1980s:

David Bowie ~ Heroes (Stage Live Version) ~ via YouTube user AlfredTheCrate:

80′s Music Rules ~ Criminally Underrated Artists/Bands ~ Karl Hyde / Freur/ Underworld

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~July 13, 2012~

Imagine a world where gifted artists from your favorite music decade continue to create brilliant music for over 30 years. Not tired, recycled retro; but new, reinvented, and cutting edge. That’s what I love so much about Gary Numan. And that’s also what I love about Karl Hyde, formerly of Freur and currently of Underworld.

For me, the past year and a half has been, in a word, stressful. Music is the salve for my tortured soul, the magic medicine that sees me through each day. During this period, I’ve had plenty of opportunity to travel back in time and rediscover some of the finest music the 80′s had to offer. One such “discovery” is Karl Hyde, front man for the unpronounceable group Freur. The iconic song “Doot Doot” is the stuff classic 80′s electronica is made of.

Freur – “Doot Doot” via YouTube user AreFriendsElectric:

In 1987, Karl Hyde and Rick Smith moved on from Freur to start the group Underworld, along with  bass player Alfie Thomas and drummer Bryn Burrows. Hyde and Smith have been the constant members over the past two decades. Underworld was an experimental band from the beginning. Karl Hyde used his electronic roots in a very unique and cutting edge way, establishing a strong foothold and forging ahead with dance/techno music. “Underneath the Radar” is an excellent illustration of Hyde and company’s successful segue from New Wave into this new genre.

Underworld – “Underneath the Radar” via YouTube user AussieFive:

Underworld continued to push the limits of their creativity, landing in the techno/trance realm with a breakthrough hit named “Born Slippy” which was featured in the critically acclaimed movie “Trainspotting.”

Underworld – “Born Slippy nuxx (Live)” via YouTube user bandulu:

Underworld – “King of Snake (Everything Everything) via YouTube user 3xrymek:

I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing this incredible band perform live. But, I can’t get enough of watching Karl Hyde onstage via YouTube. His enthusiasm for his music is eminently evident and contagious. The privilege of experiencing a live Underworld concert must be something similar to a religious transformation. The level of euphoric participation that Hyde exudes cannot be faked. He literally loses himself in the music, and no matter how many times he performs, his excitement and love for his music shines through. It’s almost as though his face is a window to his soul as his body moves of its own accord on its own spiritual plane.

“Scribble” from 2010′s CD Barking is my go-to song when I need a lift. It’s infectious upbeat is difficult to resist. I highly recommend exploring the phenomenon that is Underworld. Very few 80′s-based artists have successfully survived a tough and unforgiving music industry. When they do, they definitely have a gift that’s worth adding to your treasured collection. And when you’re down, spin a few of Underworld’s tunes.  In addition to bouncing up and down to the beat, you just may get that same Hyde-esque euphoric look on your own face.

Underworld – “Scribble” live from KCRW radio via YouTube user Alin82:

Underworld – “Scribble” via YouTube user UnderworldLiveTV:

80′s (and sometimes 00′s) Music Rules ~ Introducing Martin Eve

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I have had the great pleasure of meeting Martin Eve through our mutual love of 8os electronica. I was searching for Fiat Lux’s “Photography” on YouTube, somehow Martin found out, and he ended up uploading a copy for my enjoyment. In getting to know Martin, I have found him to be charming, engaging, and an extremely talented electronic musician. Martin has graciously agreed to be interviewed for Rave and Roll, while waiting for the imminent release of his latest collection of music. Be sure to check his music out on SoundCloud, under the user name 4th Eden. I believe you’ll be very impressed.

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How long have you been a musician?

Well, I guess since my teens, as I studied music at school which was in the late 70′s. I really started writing in the early 80′s, the time of the electronic music explosion. So, I wrote music with my friends on our synthesizers.

What/who inspired you to become a musician?

I have to say my first music teacher inspired me to begin with when he played me Tomita’s – The Planet Suite. Ok, written by Holst, but all done with synthesizers…awesome. He also played in class a guy called Mike Oldfield. So, Tomita and Mike Oldfield are an unlikely inspiration together, but that’s how it began.

Tell us in what way that inspiration influences your music.

I try not to be influenced by music I listen to but it’s always going to be there in your subconscious. Inspiration however, is all around me, particularly where I live in Mid Wales. One moment I will write about the Welsh Hills and the next about a burial chamber. Real life and people inspire me, as well. I was recently inspired to write a piece about George Mallory (the man who almost made it to the top of Everest).

How would you describe the genre of music that you create?

I don’t stick to one genre, so I guess I genre-hop. With my influences from the 80′s with bands like Ultravox, there will be the electronic pop feel; but then I really like the folk/new age side. However, I do enjoy writing in a Cinematic dramatic way, where possible.

What current artist/group do you listen to most often?

At the moment it’s Ultravox – “Brilliant” the new album after 28 years away! But I also am listening to School of Seven Bells – “Ghostery” and Polica – “Give You the Ghost.”

Which decade of music do you feel is the most influential on current up-and-coming artists, and why?

The artists I listen too are influenced by many different decades of music. They then make it their own to make it sound bang up-to-date production techniques.

If you could spend your time doing anything at all, what and where would that be?

Hmmmm…. walk, live by the sea, and write music…as I say on my forums, “Composing Until I’m Decomposing.”

Do you prefer the studio or performing live? Why?

I’m a studio musician…the thought of performing scares the hell out of me.

What is the nicest compliment you’ve ever received?

I rarely get compliments!

What type of equipment do you use?

I use a variety of software based instruments and samplers with my Digital Audio Workstation, Sonar. These are all connected to my Korg MIDI keyboard. Favourite instruments are probably Omnisphere and Kontakt. Once a track is finished then my preferred location for publication is Soundcloud where fellow Soundcloud members can comment on my tracks.

Do you work alone, or do you collaborate with anyone? If you collaborate, what is their role?

I mainly work alone but recently I have been collaborating with a singer in Los Angeles, a musician in France and another musician in Sweden. It’s great collaborating; it pushes you further out of your comfort zone, but can be more time-consuming.

I generally find that my role will be mainly to write the songs and then produce them, but this depends on the other artist. If they want more involvement, then I’m happy for a role-reversal.

Where can we go to listen to/purchase your music?

You can listen to my music on my SoundCloud page at http://soundcloud.com/quietman. A new CD is imminent, but I cannot mention where it can be purchased from yet until it’s finally released by the record company. However, it will be available in our cafe’ (that’s the day job) at the ‘Wye Knot Stop’ Cafe/B&B in Llyswen in Wales.

Gary Numan’s Machine Music Tour 2012 ~ A Review

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My friend and sometimes-guest author Mark Ryan was lucky enough to attend two performances of Gary Numan’s latest Machine Music tour. Mark wanted to share his impressions with other Numanoids via Rave and Roll. I am honored to present his review here. (Photography by Karren Bailey and Vikki Churchill).

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Photo by Karren Bailey

On May 22nd of this year, Gary Numan started another UK Tour. Those fortunate to see him live will never regret it. Those who have not seen him live are missing something special. In this short piece I am going to try and give you a small review of Gary Numan’s Machine Music tour. I saw him in 2 places (Sheffield & Birmingham) and will try to give an unbiased opinion of the live show, along with all of the plusses and minuses.

The Machine Music tour was billed as a singles tour with songs Numan had either never done live, or had only performed onstage once before.

The opening song was Berserker (Berserker, 1984) – I was really looking forward to this having heard it last in 1984. For the 2 shows I attended, the vocals were better if you stood in row 4 or 5; however, the guitar and female vocals were great.

This was followed by Metal (Pleasure Principle, 1979), a brilliant song that’s even better live. This made it seem as though the live show had finally started.

The Fall (Dead Song Rising, 2012) – This is a great song and Gary did the song proud. There are rumours that it’s written for an ex-band member. This was one of the crowd’s favourites with people jumping up and down during the chorus.

Bombers (1978) – This is an old Tubeway Army song that included a video of old airplanes as a backdrop. For this piece, Gary played 2nd guitar and made it seem as though he rejoiced at playing one of his old punk numbers. Also, there was great bass guitar.

Crazier (Hybrid, 2003) – This is one of my favourite Numan songs, and Gary really did the song justice. This song reached the Top 15 in 2003 and the crowd lapped the song up. Gary was truly great on this number.

Photo by Vikki Churchill

Call out the Dogs (The Fury, 1985) – First of all, I have no idea what this song is about, and I have not previously witnessed him sing this live. However, it was brilliant. The drums more or less took over this song especially at the bridge where it seems keyboards/ guitars are fighting for the drums in equal billing. This was the best song/performance so far, in my opinion.

Dominion Day (Sacrifice, 1994) – This was the turnaround song for Gary professionally and once again this was brilliant. I can actually remember hearing this song originally and thinking “wow”. Now, all I can think of is “brilliant”.

This Wreckage (Telekon, 1980) – I was surprised that Gary included this particular song as Telekon had some other awesome songs (Aircrash Bureau). That said, “This Wreckage” came across brilliant live, even the Japanese vocal (which Gary forgot to sing in the 1st part; however, he did seem lost in the moment).

Absolution (Exile, 1997) – This is from my favourite Numan album and written about people’s faith (although it has also been called a love song). This was excellent, although the background video put me off fully enjoying the song.

That’s Too Bad (1977) – This was Numan’s first release. To my knowledge he’s never done this live and it makes you wonder, why not? This was truly amazing with great guitars. I actually remember the words and there people around me who were also familiar with it. If you see any footage of this live, make sure you pay close attention. This was legendary

In a Dark Place (Jagged, 2006) – This was a brilliant song that featured some great keyboards, along with and the keyboard player on backing vocals. This can be included as one of his best songs in the show.

Photo by Vikki Churchill

Down in the Park (Replicas, 1979) – This started of the whole Gary Numan craze for me. Once I heard this back in the day, I was hooked and still am. No matter how many times he performs this, I will never tire of it.

RIP (Pure, 2000) This was a perfect song. The band were on form at this time. Especially when the chorus approaches.

Love Needs No Disguise (1981) This has never EVER been done live by Gary before. So obviously I was looking forward to it, knowing it could possibly be the highlight to the show. Before the song he dedicated it to the Memory of Cedric Sharpley who was Gary’s previous drummer and who passed away 6 weeks ago from a heart attack. He then introduced Rrussell Bell (guitar) & Chris Payne (violin) who were in Gary’s backing band at the start of his career and are still loved by longtime, faithful fans. This seemed almost surreal. It absolutely delivered live as Gary sung it with so emotion. This was indeed the highlight of the show so far.

Warriors (Warriors, 1983) Although I love this song, it did not work for me. Good song and lovely guitar work; however, the original featured some electric slap bass and live it did not work or connect with me.

I Die You Die (1980) This is probably my favourite Numan song. Every time he does this live it makes the hairs stand up on my arms and this was no exception. Gary seemed to really enjoy this.

Photo by Vikki Churchill

We are Glass (1980) This was released as a single and reached the Top 5. However, this song doesn’t sound right live, almost as though there is something missing. It’s almost anticlimactic. This actually left me disappointed.

This was the end of the live set but high chants of NUMANNNNNNNNNN echoed throughout the venue as we waited for an encore……………..and they did not disappoint.

Healing (2007) This is an Ade Fenton Song where Gary sung vocals and it got considerable airplay on some music stations. However, this did not fit in with the rest of the show and I wonder why this was included. There are so many other songs he could have played in this spot.

Cars (Pleasure Principle, 1979) This was the usual Cars performance but I wish he would not do it live. It’s a great song, but when you have heard it for the 100th time (?) live………nothing wrong with the performance, though.

Photo by Karren Bailey

Are Friends Electric (Replicas, 1979) was the final song of the show. This is /was all things great. As a special treat he again invited Rrussell Bell (guitar) & Chris Payne (violin) onto the stage which surprised the audience. This was, without doubt, the highlight of the show. “Are ‘Friends’ Electric” was sung with effort and emotion, along with a backing band that raised their Game. This was a perfect ending to a great night’s entertainment.

80’s Music Rules ~ More from Retrospect CFRC-FM ~ The End of an Era ~ 5-15-12

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It is with a very heavy heart that I write this last entry for Retrospect. Ed-FM is moving far from the CFRC broadcast booth for a work-related position. It’s a wonderful event for him, and a sad one for his listeners. We wish Ed-FM all the very best after giving more than 12 years to CFRC as Retrospect’s DJ, spinning countless 80′s gems that would otherwise never be heard over the airwaves.

I have known Ed for the past 4 years and he has added immeasurable light to my life through his friendship and his music. I predict we’ll be hearing him in some other iteration one of these days. Spinning fabulously obscure music is in his blood, and he won’t be able to resist the call of the turntable for very long. Godspeed, Ed.

CFRC-FM Playlist May 15, 2012

Basement of Carruthers Hall in Queens University, Kingston, Ontario
ED-FM ~ Retrospect
80’s Music That Doesn’t Suck

To listen to any shows that you may have missed, go to the CFRC website and look up the archives under the “Programming” drop-down menu. You can enjoy Ed’s previous shows in one-hour increments.

Men Without Hats – On Tuesday
Alexi Sayle – Didn’t You Kill My Brother?
They Never Sleep – Bite The Bullet
Yello – Metropolitan Meltdown (Part II)
Manufacture – As The End Draws Near (extended mix)
Flash & The Pan – Midnight Man (extended mix)
Vis-A-Vis – I am The Night (Colour Me Black)
David Bowie – Heroes/Helden
Slow Children – Spring In Fialta (extended)
Comsat Angels – You Move Me (One Good Reason)
Stranglers – No Mercy (extended)
Simple Minds – Glittering Prize (live)
Yello – Metropolitan Meltdown (Part I)
English Beat – Pato And Roger A Go Talk
Single Gun Theory – Open The Skies
New Order – Blue Monday

80′s (and sometimes 00′s) Music Rules – Independent Music Productions

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One thing I’ve learned from David Marsden and Ed (Ed-FM) Cooke: some of the best music in the industry has been overlooked because the stuffed suits in the record company/radio station boardrooms have given themselves the power to determine what us members of the poor, unwashed masses should listen to.  I have been a rebel my entire existence, listening to what moves me, not whatever is the flavor of the moment. If I didn’t feel that way, I would have missed out on some outstanding music without which my life would have been just a little more wretched. Can I imagine a world without Gary Numan, Slave To The SQUAREwave, Autocondo, Electronic Dream Factory, Vladymir Rogoff, Benjamin Russell, and so many others? No. Had I relied on what commercial radio force-feeds us, would I have enjoyed the moving and life-enriching creations of these fabulous musicians? Not likely.

The champions of bringing superior music (besides DJs like David and Ed) to the masses are generally folks in the marketing side of the independent music industry. I’d like to call attention to one such company, Independent Music Productions. The title of this music marketing outfit pretty much says it all.

I’ve had the pleasure of listening to some of the artists that Independent Music Productions promotes and feel they are worth the time to listen to. Here are a few to discover:

Rooftop Runners

From Independent Music Productions:

Forging a mix of menacing mood and moving melody out of their adopted city of Berlin, Germany, RTR are Canadian singer-songwriter brother duo Benedikt and Tobias MacIsaac. An internationally accomplished choreographer and dancer respectively, the brothers are no strangers to performing-arts success, having toured and performed extensively with world class troupes in Europe.

From: Berlin, Germany
Album: We Are Here EP (rel date April 3, 2012)

“Bang Bang” by Rooftop Runner via YouTube user rooftoprunnersmusic:

Style: Alternative / Indie / Trip pop
Members:Benedikt & Tobias MacIsaac
Production: Angela Seserman
Tracklisting: Streets, Energize, Bang Bang, She Devil
Official Website
Highlights: 2012 European tour successfully completed, performed at Club NME
“Streets” electronic remix, “Streets” Music Video, Streaming Link

From Independent Music Productions:

Sounds Like: Jeff Buckley, James Blake, Radiohead, Massive Attack

Bio: “Crippled in my youth, crippled in my youth, crippled in my youth and I’m trying to breathe”

Francis Bowie

From Independent Music Productions:

Francis Bowie is a metrosexual whirlwind of creativity within the Danish music and art scene; aside from his singing and songwriting,  he’s a painter, sculptor, designer, writer and gallery owner. Indie  Music Musings calls him “a positive rush of inspiration and  celebration inspired by new wave and electronic music. Picture Duran Duran and Unkle with dreadlocks.”

Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
CD: Francis Bowie EP
Release date: Oct 17, 2011
Label: Interscope Digital
Production: Michelle Djarling & Kasper Larsen (Kay & Ndustry)
Websites:
http://francisbowie.bandcamp.com/, http://francisbowie.com, http://soundcloud.com/francis-bowie, http://www.facebook.com/FrancisBowie

Style: Intelligent Pop Music
Streaming link, Music video links

“Sunny Day” by Francis Bowie via YouTube use FrancisBowieOfficial:

Press contact: James Moore (james@independentmusicpromotions.com)
Artist contact: music@francisbowie.com

Monks of Mellonwah

From Independent Music Productions:

A four-piece alternative rock and indie band based in Sydney, the Monks draw on a variety of influences driving each member to create a fresh and unique sound, blending elements of classic blues & rock with modern indie and alternative rock. Their first E.P., Stars Are Out, is testament to such a unique blend, and has been highly praised since
its release in 2010.

Location: Sydney, NSW
CD: “Neurogenesis” EP (Advance rel May 24, 2012)
Streaming Music

“Swamp Groove” by Monks of Mellonwah via YouTube user MonksOfMellonwah:


Members: Will Maher (vocals), Joe de la Hoyde (backing vocals/guitar), John de la Hoyde (bass), Josh Baissari (drums)
Production: Jeff Bova (Michael Jackson), Ryan Miller (John Frusciante), Howie Weinberg (Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, RHCP)
Websites:
http://www.monksofmellonwah.com
http://www.facebook.com/monksofmellonwah,
http://www.twitter.com/monksofmellonwah
Style: indie rock, alternative rock
Similar to: The Black Keys, Muse, Incubus
Press contact: James Moore (james@independentmusicpromotions.com)
Band management contact: Chris de la Hoyde (cdelahoyde@yahoo.com)

80′s (and sometimes 00′s) Music Rules – Alabama Shakes

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This is a side-step from the usual obscure/80s/Numan/etc.  features normally found on Rave and Roll.  I’ve been known to talk about current artists that either emulate 80s New Wave/Postpunk, or in this case, give a heavy-hitting dose of soul-wrenching, gut-stirring blues.

A friend posted “Hold On” by Alabama Shakes on my FaceBook page, and I have not been able to get enough of this band. In the past, I’ve made no bones about the fact that 1) I am not a fan of female vocalists, and 2) I don’t believe there are a whole lot of up-and-comers that are worth their salt.  Brittany Howard, and her band Alabama Shakes, have shattered both of those long-standing rules.

From Wikipedia:

Alabama Shakes is an American rock band formed in Athens, Alabama in 2009. The group consists of lead singer Brittany Howard, guitarist Heath Fogg, bassist Zac Cockrell, and drummer Steve Johnson.

The band was originally formed when lead singer/guitarist Brittany Howard approached bassist Zac Cockrell during a high school psychology class and began meeting after school to write songs. Howard and Cockrell experimented with many different styles of music including roots rock, progressive rock, soul music, country music and classic rock.

If you have ever loved the blues, if you have ever loved Janis Joplin, you must give this band a listen. I’m going to let Alabama Shakes, and more importantly, their edgy, bluesy, hard-rocking singer speak for themselves. They just released their first full-length album titled Boys and Girls this month. Check out the Alabama Shakes homepage, listen to them on YouTube, and buy their music. This is definitely a life-changing experience you do not want to miss.

Alabama Shakes – “Hold On” via YouTube user AlabamaShakes:

  • Brittany Howard – lead vocals, guitar
  • Heath Fogg – guitar
  • Zac Cockrell – bass
  • Steve Johnson – drums
  • Ben Tanner – keyboards

Alabama Shakes – “You Ain’t Alone” via YouTube user NowWaveManchester:

David Bowie vs. Gary Numan: A Fan’s Critical Review Part II

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My friend Mark Ryan has come back to do another comparison review featuring his two favorite artists, Gary Numan and David Bowie. It’s an honor to have Mark share his thoughts with us on Rave and Roll.

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My name is Mark Ryan and I am a longtime friend of Miss Parker’s. It was my suggestion that I do the following review. I grew up listening to David Bowie, and later on Gary Numan. Music was always in my house, and to this day, I have continued this legacy with my own children.

David Bowie – Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) 

Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) was David Bowie’s last Album for RCA. Recorded in New York and London, it was released in September 1980.

Side One starts with “It’s No Game (No. 1),” and includes the sounds of a flushing toilet and a Japanese girl’s vocal. Bowie wrote the lyrics about class society while doing his latest tour. In it, he seems very angry.

“Up the Hill Backwards” is a lovely harmonic song, with lush guitar, soothing percussion (not drums), and the bass, which is set perfectly. This was written about Bowie’s recent divorce and how he struggled with it; hard to imagine, but true.

The track “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)” is a 5-minute masterpiece. This song is brilliant; Bowie’s vocals are great with superb guitar work by Robert Fripp. It seems the guitar takes on a life of its own. The song is written about someone who withdraws from people’s attention; perhaps Angie Bowie or even David himself, upon closer inspection.

“Ashes to Ashes” is a follow-up to “Space Oddity.” It’s Bowie doing funk before funk was cool. The song features George Murray performing slap bass on a fretless bass guitar throughout. I love the guitar and synthesizer here, as well. The song’s lyrics describe how Bowie is finished with the 1970s and starting out in the 1980s.

Side One ends with “Fashion.” It seemed that every girl in my school who was a Bowie fan loved this song. Again, it features Robert Fripp’s guitar work (just how good is he?) and shows the New York influence on Bowie with elements of funk and bits of reggae. This track also features a description of his own political stance at the time.

Side Two starts with “Teenage Wildlife.” Before I review this, I should mention that this one of my Top 10 Bowie songs of all time. This track is just amazing and is a 7-minute masterpiece. “Teenage Wildlife” should have been released as a single. It was written about all the New Wave bands that were coming through at the time, and in it, he appears to feel threatened. It even sounds like a personal attack on some of the competition (Numan in particular). Aside from that, the track featues great guitar work by Robert Fripp and Chuck Hammer who accomplishes his guitar through a synthesizer. The lyrics are brilliant on this song: “As ugly as a teenage millionaire, Pretending it’s a whiz-kid world.” Just listen to this and you will be hooked.

“Scream Like a Baby” sees Bowie writing once again about 1984. However, this time he talks about “Sam.” Its very theme underscores the album and is a great follow-up to “Teenage Wildlife.”

“Kingdom Come” is next. Up to this time, Bowie never did a bad cover version, and this is no exception. With lovely backing vocals, this song was written the year before by Tom Verlaine.

“Because You’re Young” follows with The Who’s Pete Townshend on guitar. This is a great, but underrated, song. It features a lovely synth against the backdrop of David’s vocals.

“It’s No Game (No. 2)” finishes the Album. This is the same as Track 1, without the heavy lead guitar, but featuring the slap bass once again. Even though he still appears quite angry, you can tell he copes with his anger much better this time.

Scary Monsters is quite possibly Bowie’s best album. There is not a weak song on the album and the production is consisitent throughout. Some interesting facts: this was orginally going to be an instrumental album and it was only later on that he decided to add lyrics to it. Both George Murray & Denis Davies should be appreciated for their input; Denis plays percussion brilliantly and even in the slower number, you can hear his influence. This is a must-buy album. Shame there was no tour to support it.

Gary Numan – Strange Charm

Strange Charm was recorded in May & June of 1986 and released in November 1986. The album starts off with “My Breathing.” This is a brilliant song with soaring synths and superb violas. This is one of my most favourite Numan songs because it is so powerful with beautiful arrangements. There’s even an Arabian feel to the song.

“Unknown and Hostile” picks up where “My Breathing” finishes; however I am not convinced of the success of drum sound here. It seems lost somehow; but, the song is a story and it has been loved.

“The Sleeproom” is a beautiful song, and in my opinion, the perfect follow-up song to “Down in the Park.” There are great synths with a lovely bass synth thrown in; even the backing vocals are set in stone. Definitely an underrated Numan song.

Side One finishes with “New Thing From London Town.” This was written with Bill Sharpe of Shakatak fame. It’s a brilliant track with good drum synths from Roger Odelle. However, the down side is that the song doesn’t fit in with any other part of the album making it obviously out of place. This recording would have fit better on the album Sharpe & Numan.

Side Two starts with “I Can’t Stop.” This actually got Gary back onto the charts and is a personal song: “I’m back and I’m proven (Yeah).” The song features awful female backing vocals; however, they are soon forgotten thanks to a great lead guitar. Gary is also on form with his vocal range.

“Strange Charm” is up next. This track contains more girl backing vocals that drone over Gary’s voice, which along with drum/keyboards, are actually in harmony.

“The Need” is, quite simply, awful. “Get The Need” is the first thing you hear on this one. I’ll leave you to your own imgination; but, in my opinion, it’s best to avoid this song altogether.

Strange Charm finishes with “This Is Love” written for Gary’s girlfriend at the time. It’s a lovely song with drum effects, and a beautiful, soothing piano played by Ade Orange.

Strange Charm is indeed a strange album. Depsite the great opening, it doesn’t seem to go anywhere. Too many female shouting/backing vocals and not enough of Gary’s. I can understand where Gary was coming from; he needed a new sound and he liked to experiment with different noises and textures. However, there is no theme. The album starts off strong, and then it ends flat. I have played this album over and over again, recently, and I find it can result in two very different reactions: it’s either great, or it’s crap.

~ Mark Ryan ~

David Bowie – “Ashes to Ashes” via YouTube user emimusic

Gary Numan – “My Breathing” via YouTube user Gazz1617

David Bowie vs. Gary Numan: A Fan’s Critical Review

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I am very happy to present Bowie vs. Numan: A Fan’s Critical Review written by dear friend and 80s music devotee Mark Ryan. You may remember Mark for his part in my “The Secret Life of Numanoids” series. It’s always a good thing to showcase other “voices” so that a blog doesn’t become stale and boring. I thank Mark so much for bringing his unique point of view to Rave and Roll.

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My name is Mark Ryan and I am a longtime friend of Miss Parker’s. It was my suggestion that I do the following review. I grew up listening to David Bowie, and later on Gary Numan. Music was always in my house, and to this day, I have continued this legacy with my own children.

David Bowie – Tonight 

In the 1970s, David Bowie was the lynchpin of the music industry. Described as “influential” and “ahead of his time,” Bowie produced classic album after classic album. He was always one step ahead in the fashion stakes and surprisingly, the press liked him! Even when he was receiving bad press Bowie, to his credit, found a way to use it to his advantage.

Bowie started the 1980s clean and off drugs, releasing 2 albums in 3 years along with one world tour in 1983. After the world tour was finished, in 1984 he announced a new album called Tonight that was going to be co-produced by Hugh Padgham & Derek Bramble along with himself.

Tonight was released on 1 September 1984 and reached Number 1 in the UK and Number 11 in the USA charts, respectively.

Tonight starts out with “Loving the Alien” and is in my opinion, and without doubt, the best song of the album. However, listening closer, it should have been acoustic without the marimba and string arrangement, which makes it sluggish at times. We carry on with “Don’t Look Down’” which is an old Iggy Pop number (a familiar theme on the album). Bowie does a poor imitation of reggae (which I strongly dislike). This, in my opinion, was a big mistake.

Next up is The Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows” with a full string arrangement. This is “Bowie doing a Bowie impressionist doing Bowie.” It’s a decent cover version, but far too lush and very under-produced. It’s a great selection for a Karaoke Night, and not much else.
Side One finishes with “Tonight” which is a duet with Tina Turner and without doubt is the worst song I have ever heard. It’s best to ignore this one.

Side Two starts out with “Neighborhood Threat” and again is an old Iggy Pop song. The track is great with roaring guitars and very good production. To me. this is the Bowie of old (almost).

“Blue Jean” is next, released as a single that reached number 6. “Jazzin for Blue Jean” is an awful recording, but inspired by his early years and was accompanied by a cool video. It’s basically Bowie doing his worst crooner act. This is followed by “Tumble & Twist” which again was an old Iggy Pop song, reggae-like, and spoiled by over-production of marimbas. However, Bowie’s vocals are very good here.

“I Keep Forgettin” is backed by a great drum & horn section, lasting two and a half minutes. I really enjoy this song. The album finishes with “Dancing With the Big Boys” that’s listed as a duet and yes, you guessed it, is an old Iggy Pop number. Despite that, it really rocks and has a decent production value; however, the synthesizer actually spoils the song.

Tonight promised a lot and failed on all accounts. It’s Bowie’s worst album and the listener can sense he was losing his touch (but not motivation). I question why he chose that particular production team. Derek Bramble was a disco head, and known for his bass lines; one can feel his influence in the reggae numbers. Hugh Padgham was well known as a “Drum Guy,” so again it’s plain to see where his influence came from. Hugh was famous for producing Genesis and Kate Bush, who both made great albums; unfortunately, this was not one of them.

Tonight was basically a David Bowie & Iggy Pop album with only 2 new songs written by Bowie. I listened to this album in 1984, and again recently and in-depth, and my view is the same. Only buy/download if you are obsessed by Bowie. It’s not for the casual fan, as it lacks the depth, flexibility and courage found in other Bowie albums. Another thing that I find irritating/disappointing is that Bowie only sings on this album and plays no instruments. It leaves me wondering, “Why?”

Gary Numan – Telekon  

Gary Numan burst onto the music scene in 1979. There was something about him that got people hooked back then, and who are still hooked to this very day. I first heard him in late 1978 when I was given a demo to listen to. How that person had the demo escapes me; but, at the time, I played in a band as the drummer and always loved music, especially drum/percussion sound. As I listened to the demo, there something that was special, augmented by guitar and bass, which did not overpower his voice; instead, it went with his voice. So, imagine my surprise when I heard Numan had dropped the heavy guitars in favour of the world famous Moog synthesizer.

After two Number One albums in 1979, one in a band and one solo, and a sold-out world tour, Gary started to write his next album. How do you follow up after being so successful and not having the greatest of relationships with the press? Not an easy task; however, Gary just did that with Telekon, which was released on 5 September 1980 and reached Number 1 in the UK.

The album starts off with “This Wreckage.” This song seems to be written about his own personal choices in life, along with an atheist theme. I feel it was a poor choice for a single, because the only good part in the song is the Japanese vocal half way through. When I played it in my house, my dad disliked this song immensely (“He talks bad about God?” “Youngsters, eh?”).

Next is “The Aircrash Bureau,” and wow what a song! It consists of a beautiful arrangement, super bass solo at the start, and roaring synths; even the vocal gets you hooked. This song had “single” material written all over it, a vastly underrated song.

“Telekon,” the theme song, is next. In 1980 I disliked this song so much I would never play it because it has a piano solo on it which I feel gets lost in the mix. However, after all these years, it has grown on me.

“Remind Me to Smile” is the next track, written about his relationship with the press (horrible bunch of people), and his ever-adoring fans. It was an obvious single with such scathing lyrics as “Fame/I need new reasons/This is detention/It’s not fun at all.”

As Telekon progresses, you can see how Numan was evolving into a great songwriter. The last song on Side One is a ballad called “Sleep by Windows,” which is augmented by roaring and dark keyboards and 2 bass guitars side-by-side. However, the song’s highlight is the drumming–just masterful work.

Side Two starts with “I Am an Agent,” in which the synths and guitars combine masterfully with each other. This is a truly great song, and when I hear it live, it really gets me going.

“I Dream of Wires” is a futuristic song. Again, I love the drumming on this song that coincides with great guitar work and even the use of a whistle, but it all works so well.

“Remember I Was Vapour” is next. It’s obvious Numan uses a drum machine, as well as a drummer; however, it’s very “tinny,” under-produced, and is a disappointment. On the plus side, Numan has a great keyboard solo on it.

“Please Push No More” is a slush ballad–a very personal song with lovely piano work by Denis Haines. This song is the album’s highlight for me.

The final song on Telekon is “The Joy Circuit” in which Gary uses the violin as an extra musician’s weapon. This really works very well; it’s a great song, and a nice way to finish the album.

Telekon is a superb album, for both Numanoids and the casual fan, with terrific production and superb arrangements. Gary Numan makes full use of what he has and he really develops his style throughout this album. In my opinion, it’s better than “The Pleasure Principle,” an album that was ground-breaking in itself.

Numan was so awesome at this time, he also wrote two Top 5 hits. Telekon is the “must-have” album for a collection. It’s a shame he didn’t reach the same heights with another album until the release of Pure in 2000.

~ Mark Ryan ~

David Bowie – “Tonight” via YouTube user heno1x

Gary Numan – “Telekon” via YouTube user GaryNumanAlbums

Bobbi Style and Access 2 ~ The Story Continues

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Last July, I reported on Bobbi Style’s brainchild, the Access 2 Foundation. In a nutshell, Bobbi is breathing life into his dream of providing disabled-accessible music studios to all musicians. Since July’s post, he has been tirelessly rolling forward (literally!), not only gaining financial and physical support, but also opening his first Access 2 studio near his home in Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada.

Some of the funding is a result of the hard work of musicians that have committed to donating their time and talent to create tracks for sale. Proceeds are then channeled into the Access 2 project. Bobbi, himself a wildly gifted singer/songwriter who started out as a vital part of the 80s goth/new wave scene (and continues to record to this day), has loaned his enormous talent to several tracks that are now available for purchase on iTunes.

Do yourself a huge favor; if you haven’t already done so, check out the whirlwind known as Bobbi Style. Then, do two very positive things with your money: purchase some great music for your library, and help support a worthy project created to ensure that all musicians have the chance to keep our world full of the music we love.

Bobbi Style on iTunes
http://itunes.apple.com/ca/artist/bobbi-style/id332898927

Girl EP
http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/girl-ep/id491250999

Bobbi Style “Embrace Me” live

Gary Numan ~ Semi-Unplugged via SHOWstudio

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It has been well over a year since I saw/met Gary Numan in Orlando. During that time, he has recorded an incredibly moving album called Dead Son Rising, and has performed in multiple venues across Europe and Australia. Critics, who panned him for the last 20+ years, are again enamored of him, and rightfully so (although I think they’ve had their heads up their collective behinds for the past two decades, but that’s a rant for another post).

Recently, Mr. Numan engaged in a presentation called “SHOWstudio” where he performed several of his songs in a semi-unplugged (minimal back-up) style. The breathtakingly atmospheric videos are posted on YouTube and are way too fabulous to not repost here. Enjoy!

SHOWstudio: In Your Face ~ When the Sky Bleeds He Will Come ~ Gary Numan

SHOWstudio: In Your Face ~ Dead Sun Rising ~ Gary Numan

SHOWstudio: In Your Face ~ Are ‘Friends’ Electric? ~ Gary Numan

SHOWstudio: In Your Face ~ For the Rest of My Life ~ Gary Numan

Saying “Good Bye” to My Beloved Sistahmar

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I never imagined that I would begin 2012 by writing a memorial for my dear friend Marilyn Hamilton from Kitchener Ontario. “Sistahmar,” as she is known to her multitude of Marsbar Theatre friends and fans, left this world on December 31, 2011 at 8:50 AM. The only word that even comes close to describing how it feels to lose this precious friend and soul sister is “devastated.”

I had the privilege of meeting Sistahmar nearly 4 years ago when I stumbled into the Marsbar Theatre Chatroom. After listening to David Marsden‘s free-form, “anything goes” broadcast (streaming live over the Internet from 94.9 The Rock) and hearing the tales he spun about the chatroom regulars, I decided to take a walk on the “dark side” and check it out for myself. Upon entering the room, I was warmly greeted by the Roving Ambassador herself, launching what was to be a close and ironclad friendship.

Over the years, we have laughed, cried, loved, gossiped, shared, planned and even plotted together via telephone and email. The minute we realized we both had the same birthday, the unbreakable bond was forged. Marilyn fondly referred to me as her “evil twin sister,” a badge I wear with fierce pride, while she will always be my “partner in crime.”

Although the news of Marilyn’s passing was much like being hit by a speeding train, I have managed to find some solace in the pain and sadness. I believe she has finally been reunited with her beloved husband Bob, who predeceased her about 8 years ago. She missed him sorely, and instead of her loss becoming easier as time went on, it actually became more difficult. I imagine the two of them walking arm-in-arm along the banks of the lake they enjoyed so much in years gone by, pausing for a moment to share a whisper, steal a kiss, and have a giggle or two. There they wait patiently until they are finally reunited for eternity with all of the friends they loved so much, and who loved them, in this lifetime.

For my dear friend and soul sister Marilyn Hamilton who slipped from this world and into eternity, leaving a hole the size of the universe in each of our hearts: May you finally rest in peace. The light you gave to my life and so many others will never be extinguished, the joy you brought will always be remembered. Thank you for a friendship that transcended distance. I will always love you.

Gary Numan – Are “Friends” Electric? Montage – via YouTube user Knightvision 1228:

“Dead Son Rising” CD by Gary Numan with Ade Fenton ~ A Review

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Please do not copy any portion of this article without the express written consent of the original author. Requests for permission may be left in the form of a comment on http://raveandroll.wordpress.com.

“Dead Son Rising” CD by Gary Numan with Ade Fenton – released September 2011

(Photo credits: Ed Fielding Photography http://www.edfielding.co.uk/)

Long awaited, Dead Son Rising is a theme-driven collection of electronica only the way Gary Numan, along with Ade Fenton, can create. Pounding and wistful, demanding and longing, tender and brutal, it is a study in impossible contrasts that work together so seamlessly as to be other-worldly. Words can only inadequately describe the music on this brilliant CD. If you love electronica/dark wave/industrial/goth, this is a must-have addition to your collection.

Resurrection
The swell of the synthesizers backdropped with breathing sounds and static is a perfect indicator of what is to come on this epic CD. Something sinister yet magical is in the air, and we are about to be willingly drawn into its merciless grasp.

Big Noise Transmission
Static noise and a driving rhythm section catapult us into a staccato mind-puzzle fraught with urgent, whispered pleas. Fully Numan-esque and gripping, this industrial anthem is a rock-solid testament to a direction Numan has whole-heartedly embraced over the past sixteen years. He shows us he has this genre fully mastered and ready for our listening pleasure. The abrupt end leaves us aching for more.

Dead Sun Rising
Numan uses his signature vocals against a deeply satisfying electronic backdrop. There is no one on this planet that could pull off an electronic ballad as successfully as Gary Numan. It is the perfect melding of lyrics, vocals, and synthesizers that captures the soul and transports it to another dimension.

When the Sky Bleeds, He Will Come
Numan and company use everything but the kitchen sink to deliver this masterpiece. Left to the devices of mere mortals, this song would result in listening confusion; in Gary and Ade’s more than capable hands, it is an extraordinary testament to pushing music to its limits and successfully achieving perfection.

For the Rest Of My Life
Don’t let the title/lyrics fool you. This is no tender love song. It borders on an obsessiveness that is both scary yet oddly compelling. It is similar to approaching an accident scene on the highway, and not being able to avert your eyes. In fact, it makes the listener want to hit the “replay” button; not only to hear it again, but to validate the message.

Not the Love We Dream Of
The stark piano notes that open this song are gorgeous. Enter Gary Numan’s voice, and what we end up with is a slightly off-kilter and purposeful story woven of disappointment and sadness. Who can’t relate to the melancholic message delivered here? We have all made mistakes that have devastated us. Numan and company put context to those feelings so we can unleash the demons within.

The Fall
Gary advises us how to deal with being shattered, even telling us point blank that the world still goes on even if we cannot. This is a perfect song to play when things are falling apart in our lives, if only for the rhythm, which makes it impossible to sit still long enough to feel sorrow.

We Are the Lost
The powerful and driving drumbeat that opens this track and anchors it throughout is a welcome diversion from the keyboards that usually take the limelight. Coupled with a Middle Eastern flair that Numan has previously and successfully brought into his music, this song resonates down into the listener’s toes. The textures are rich and colorful, like an open market full of hand-woven cloth displays.

For The Rest Of My Life (Reprise)
Like a path winding its way through a dark forest, we are gently guided to a clearing where Gary awaits us to remind us of the lost love he introduced us to earlier in our journey.

Into Battle
This track is a cacophony of sounds that starts out somewhat reminiscent of wind chimes in a stormy summer garden. But don’t be lulled into submission. The seemingly harmless wind chimes morph into the cadence and timber of something destructive and sinister. Even if you are on your guard, you are not going to be ready for the abrupt end. Signifying eternity, perhaps?

Not the Love We Dream Of (Piano Version)
Again, we are treated to the stark piano notes winding through the introduction to this song. Slowed down and purposeful, almost funereal, we are reminded of mortality, mistakes, and failed missions. It is definitely a song of introspection, but with the change-up in tone and tempo midway through, Numan informs us musically that there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel.

Dead Sun Rising (Early Version)
This version feels like it is played at a slower speed. Numan’s vocals are the focus with the lush accompaniment of electronica there merely to support the master as he works his craft. It is a delightfully welcome version of the title track, and the perfect close to a perfect CD.

Well done, Gary. You are a perfectionist, and our lives are enriched because of it.

Visit Gary Numan’s website: http://www.numan.co.uk/

“The Fall” official full-length promotional video via YouTube user GaryNumanOfficial:

“The Fall” live by Gary Numan – via YouTube user GaryNumanOfficial:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Ten

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Matt Jessup (UK) 

I have come to know Matt through FaceBook. He belongs to the legions of lifelong Gary Numan fans, discovering and falling hard for the unique look and sound Numan brought to the world at the very end of the 70s. Matt was kind enough to share his journey with us in his own words.

He writes:
I’ve followed Gary Numan since 1979. Unfortunately, I missed the Touring Principle tour, but was more than fortunate to see Teletour 80. I also consider myself one of the select few who actually witnessed the Wembley Farewell concert live. It was musical history in the making and I still can’t get over I was there. It was staggering!

I was drawn to Numan by his 1st appearance performing “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” on Top Of The Pops. My jaw hit the floor and I made everyone shut up so I could hear it. At that time, there was too much agro going on with anarchy, punks and skinheads fighting and all the sh*t music it brought (some of which I quite like now, strangely). I hated it, and Numan was a breath of fresh air. And, with me being a keyboard player, after seeing the word JP4 on Telekon, I went down to the music shop and bought one. I never looked back.

My favorite albums will always be what I consider the “Fab 5:” Tubeway Army, Replicas,  The Pleasure Principle, Telekon, and Dance. They are time machines for me. I can tell who, what, where, and when, and in some cases, can still smell her perfume. Perfect memories to perfect music. I also adore Sacrifice.

I have many, many favorite tracks: “Metal,” “Exhibition,” “Subway”…too many to list.

My most exciting moments include Dad saying “yes” to the request of £15 to go to Wembley (that included coach there and back), and finding out Gary was using the sounds I sent him for The Pleasure Principle 2009. Also, every concert I attended, it was exciting meeting up beforehand, when Gary was at the height of fame. Southampton was a sea of black and red, and I still have the red belt harness I wore to Wembley.

I can’t actually say “I love Gary Numan” because that would make me gay – ha! I always wished I looked like him, though – great eyes. I can express my love for him only one way, by declaring his sheer brilliance, which comes down to his lyrics and the way his voice fits the words. The sounds. As I said before, his lyrics can drop you to your knees and the synth lines just lift you right up. A classic example is Andy Gray’s mix of “Prayer for the Unborn.” It’s a fact that at Troxy last year, the intro and the way “Down In The Park”  kicked in actually brought tears to my eyes. It was so massive. And in that instant, I was back watching him come out in that car on Teletour. Then, I was back in the room, and my son Josh, 21 looked at me nodding and said, “Oooh yeah…Numan’s still got it.”

I met Gary Numan in 1986. We chatted for 45 minutes. No illusions were shattered; “Numan” went offstage and I chatted to “Gary Webb,” if that makes sense. Now, I would dearly love for my 2 sons to meet Gary and shake the hand of the man who has shaped 30 years of my life. They are really up for that.

The Numan experience taught me song writing and sound creation. They were great years that brought great friends, and the most loyal fan base I’ve ever known.

Machinery Strange Dreams by Matt Jessup via YouTube user DarkAngelOne:


Me, I Disconnect From You (Gary Numan) cover by Matt Jessup via YouTube user emjay946:

Are ‘Friends’ Electric? (Gary Numan)piano cover by Matt Jessup via YouTube user emjay946:


Ghost by Matt Jessup via YouTube user DarkAngelOne:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Nine

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Stephen Numan (Scotland)

What better way to show your love and admiration for someone than to take their surname as your own? I have been privileged with meeting Stephen Numan, who kindly agreed to share his secret life as a Numanoid on Rave and Roll. His story is a fascinating one, so sit back and enjoy.

Stephen writes:

There is history behind this. My mom divorced our abusive father when I was around four or five. My surname then was McAllister. When she got her divorce, she reverted to her maiden name of Boyle. She remarried many years later, and as a courtesy to my step-dad, I took on his surname of Nobbs. I took his name because he was great for my mom, and loved her and all us kids so much. Sometime later, I realized I wanted to take on the surname of Numan. I will explain later.

I have been a fan since first seeing Gary on The Old Grey Whistle Test back, I think, in 1978. What drew me to him was the projected persona: alien-like, emotionless, staring grey eyes, the eyeliner and make-up, and the utter loneliness I heard in his voice and lyrics.

Gary Numan’s music means EVERYTHING to me. I was 12 or 13 when I first heard his music. As a depressed loner at that time, I was searching for a hero, a figure I could look up to and possibly relate to. I saw that figure in Numan. I heard in his music and lyrics all the alienation and rejection I had felt throughout my childhood.

Now then, my favorite album – tricky – I would have to say Telekon, with The Pleasure Principle a close second. My fave song – EASY – “A Prayer for the Unborn” – just because of the story it tells about Gary and Gemma’s loss.

My fave Numan moment – his first live gig in Glasgow back in the day – it was amazing to see my hero on stage. I was in tears and utterly hysterical – oh the freedom of youth!

I think it’s obvious now my fave way to express my love for him; I changed my surname by deed poll 6 years ago. When I stayed in South Africa for 25 years, I imported ALL of his albums, singles and 12-inch singles. I had so many, I used to place them upon my living room walls as homage to the great man. I came back for a holiday in 1984 to see him on The Berserker Tour – great gig – I returned to SA with the album and a few 12-inch singles. I then painted the cover of Berserker on my living room wall – 10 foot by 10 foot, draped it in blue curtains with blue lighting from below – it looked awesome!

I’m a diehard Numan fan; always have been, and always will be. Obviously, I don’t like every track, and yet I love his ballads. “Don’t Call My Name” is truly heart-wrenching.

I have never met him, which makes me sad, and yet, maybe it’s meant to be that way. “Idolize at a distance.”

Whenever I need inspiration, whenever I need to be lifted from depression, whenever I need reminding of all that is and was great in my life – I play Gary Numan. Whenever I buy a new car or mp3 player – I ALWAYS play Numan on it first.

“Sleep By Windows” by Gary Numan via YouTube user themachman19691:

“A Prayer For The Unborn” by Gary Numan via YouTube user TheTelekon:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Eight

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Nik Sylvian (FaceBook persona)

The 80s decade spawned a lifetime of brilliant music that has lived long into the 21st century. Some of the more tenacious artists have made it to the present, still creating vital and brilliant music. Of course, Gary Numan is one such lesson in creative survival, and he is in good company along with artists like Peter Murphy, Bryan Ferry, Simple Minds, David Bowie, and Japan, to name a few.

Speaking of Japan, Numanoid Nik Sylvian also happens to be a deeply committed fan of David Sylvian. Both Gary Numan and David Sylvian were non-conforming pioneers during the most exciting musical decade in modern history, so it stands to reason Nik would be drawn to both of them. Let’s take a closer look at Nik’s fascination with Numan.

Nik has been a fan of Gary Numan’s for the past 30 years. There was something about Numan’s music that caught Nik’s ear three decades ago. When asked specifically what that “something” was, Nik responds, “Gary Numan talking about the future and how it would be like.”

When you love an artist, it’s very difficult to nail down a favorite creation. When asked to name a favorite album, a fan will instinctively answer, “All of them.” Nik is straightforward with his response, however, stating that “Telekon” is his favorite Gary Numan album. He quickly adds, “Also, I Assassin.”

Similarly, Nik points to “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” as his prefered Numan single, but again adds, “And also, I Assassin.” There may be a trend here!

Exciting Numan moments for Nik include seeing Gary perform on Top of the Pops and The Old Grey Whistle Test. He’s in good company with many other long-term Numanoids who hold those same precious visions close to their hearts. As a final thought on Gary Numan, Nik shares, “He’s simply the best.” I know there are many people out there that would agree.

“Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” by Gary Numan – via YouTube user dashproductions:

“I Assassin” by Gary Numan – via YouTube user GaryNumanAlbums:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Seven

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Mark Kemp ~ UK

For the seventh installment of the series, Mark took the challenge to share his story about being a Numanoid with gusto. His enthusiasm for Gary Numan is genuine and infectious, and needs no further introduction from me.

Mark writes:
Gary Numan; a name that has not been far from my mind since the age of 12. Like most fans, it started one Thursday night watching “Top of the Pops.” The sound, the image….mesmerizing. I bought the single (AFE) but couldn’t afford Replicas, so I had to borrow it and tape it. My “Grease Soundtrack” cassette sounded far better with Numan taped over it!! (Piss off Travolta).

I had discovered “real” music. My Saturdays from then on consisted of looking through music magazines for anything I could find relating to Gary. I sometimes spent my entire pocket money on a magazine that contained one small picture of Gary no bigger than about 4 centimeters square!

I never made it to his first tour, but managed to see him on the Teletour, which to a young lad was mind-blowing. I AM IN THE SAME ROOM AS GARY NUMAN !!!!!! Been on every tour since then, the exception being the Wembley “final” concerts. London might as well have been the moon for a lad from up north with little money. The “holy grail” of a front row seat at a Numan gig was a long time coming. It finally came on the “Metal Rhythm” tour.

I believed that I had grown up a bit when it came to being a Numan fan. I was wrong. I was in fucking awe of the man. He stood just a few feet away and I had never even dreamt of getting this close to my hero. I held my hand out to him and mouthed, “COME HERE.” He mouthed back to me, “NO YOU COME HERE” knowing full well that I couldn’t get up on the stage. He was teasing me! He waited about 10 minutes, then he bent over and shook my hand. Yep, that was GARY NUMAN shaking MY hand!! I quickly handed him a pen and my tour programme, which he signed; I even had time to take his picture signing it.

I have met Gary on 4 occasions, the best being at the first convention held in London where I had my picture taken with him. My Numan collection still grows: rare records, concert recordings, more pictures, thanks to the wonderful eBay. Favourite song? Still CARS. After all this time I have never got bored of it. Album? Again, The Pleasure Principle is an outstanding piece of work that still sounds relevant even today: “Noise Noise,” “The Machman,” “Every Day I Die,” “This Is My House,” “We Are So Fragile,” “I Die You Die,” “Complex,” “I Dream Of Wires,” “My Shadow In Vain,” “Tracks,” and “Cry The Clock Said.”

Amazing talent. I will always prefer Gary’s older material, but the new stuff is still good; just not as good.

“Noise Noise” by Gary Numan via YouTube user patrickingham21:

“My Shadow In Vain” by Gary Numan via YouTube user dashproductions:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Six

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CAZ’KIK’ASS ~ UK

I met Caz a while ago through mutual friends on YouTube and MySpace where there is a large network of Numanoids. I have really had the pleasure of getting to know her better since we met up again on FaceBook.

Caz epitomizes what it means to be a loyal Numanoid. From her, I have learned that it’s OK to not be in love with everything that Numan does. What does matter is respect for the human being behind the stage personna, along with undying loyalty.

When asked how long she’s been a fan, I was not surprised to learn Caz has been Numanoid for over 31 years.

Caz answers the question, “What drew you to Gary Numan?” with, “Seeing him perform Are ‘Friends’ Electric? on the Old Grey Whistle Test programme.”

One word suffices when asked, “What does Numan’s music mean to you?” Caz responds automatically and plainly, “Everything. It’s there for me in good times and bad.”

Me: Can you name a favorite album?
Caz: OMG!! I can’t answer that!

Me: What about favorite songs—what would they be?
Caz: “Blue Eyes,” “Every Day I Die”…need I go on?

Me: Tell me about your most exciting Gary Numan moment.
Caz: Meeting him at the Last Great Warbirds Airshow.

Caz cites her photography as a way to express her love for Gary Numan. I have also seen pictures where Caz dresses up in full make-up and clothing resembling Numan’s Dance album cover in order to host live a show featuring Zara Band who play Numan’s music. In fact, here’s a video of her in action:

When asked if she has any other thoughts to share, Caz says wistfully, “May the God live forever, and I’d like to meet him once again.”

Amen to that!

“Blue Eyes” by Gary Numan/Tubeway Army via YouTube user garycee:
 

“Every Day I Die” by Gary Numan/Tubeway Army via YouTube user PatrickIngham21:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part Five

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Karren Bailey – UK

I am very fortunate to know Karren on FaceBook. She has graciously agreed to share her history as a Numanoid. I am sure a lot of what Karren recalls will stimulate fond memories for many other fans. Enjoy the walk down memory lane!

Karren has this to say about her secret life as a Numanoid:

I have been a fan of Gary Numan since the very first time he appeared on “Top of The Pops” in 1979. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing or hearing. It was so different to anything I’d seen before. I was drawn to the way he was dressed, the expressions, the make-up, and the song was amazing, too—one of those unrepeatable moments in your life. Next day, the kids at school were talking about it, too. I reckon he’d surprised many a family in their front rooms that evening!

Numan’s music means everything to me. There is a Numan song for every mood, and I can’t imagine how it would have been without it!My fave Numan album changes ALL the time, from the early, right up to recent. In the early days, not having pocket money, I used to have to wait for my birthdays when my big brother used to buy them for me (always teasing that he went to another town to buy them incase he was recognised).

 The Pleasure Principle and Telekon will always be special favourites, but I love Dance, Sacrifice and Pure, too.

It would be far easier to tell you the few Numan songs that I’m not keen on (“Bridge, What Bridge?”) GASP! than my favourites, but I do have a few that I go back to more often than others. “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” will always be a BIG fave as I knew it would be that first time I heard it 31 years ago. I love all the versions he’s done of it since. “Aircrash Bureau” from the Telekon album always blows me away. It’s a modern day work of art. I especially love “The Seed of a Lie,” “Crash,” “My Breathing,” “Noise Noise,” “Here Am I,” “An Alien Cure,” “A Prayer for the Unborn,” “Voix,” “On Broadway,” “Magic,” and am currently smitten with “When the Sky Bleeds.”

An exciting Numan moment has to be when my big sister took me to see him live for the first time on the Warriors tour in 1983. The local radio station dropped him back at Victoria Halls in Hanley, after an interview, and the doors were locked, leaving him standing next to me on the step. I just stood there frozen. He didn’t look too impressed, himself. I’ve never met up with/talked to Gary Numan and I don’t wait outside gigs to do this, as I’m scared it will spoil it. I keep him special.

I express my love for Gary Numan (much to my children’s distress) by dropping him into conversations as much as possible, wearing Gary Numan clothing and my “Gary Numan is God” badge. It’s amazing how many people have good and bad Numan memories to share. Even a driver delivering to my house shared that he was at the Wembley concert when he heard the music I was playing when I opened the door.

I can’t believe how many Numan friends I have found on Facebook, after being the “Only Numanoid in the Village” for years. I love hearing all their stories about naming their children after him and stuff, and how Gary Numan has been the soundtrack to their life too, despite much of the teasing that has always gone along with it.

“The Seed of a Lie” by Gary Numan via YouTube user defectedmodel:

“A Prayer for the Unborn” by Gary Numan via YouTube user leeleec79:

The Secret Life Of Numanoids ~ Part Four

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The Secret Life of Numanoids series was on hold for several months while I took the time to get a handle on some personal issues. Now that things are somewhat back under control, I’m excited to resume an inside look at what makes Gary Numan fans tick. If you would like to be a part of this ongoing series, or know someone who would, please leave a comment here or message me on FaceBook: Sandy Numanfan Missparker.

Coincidentally, both of today’s highlighted Numanoids are from Scotland. Enjoy reading what fuels their lifelong love for Gary Numan.

Robert McNab – Scotland

Robert launches into his story by telling me that he has been a fan since the very beginning of Gary Numan’s career.

“I saw Gary on Top of the Pops singing ‘Cars’ and I had not heard anything like it. It was well ahead of its time.”

Like so many fellow Numanoids, Robert finds meaning in Numan’s music. “His music is very powerful. Things that have happened in my life I can relate to in Gary’s music.”

Robert had a much easier time nailing down one favorite album versus one favorite song. “My favorite album is The Pleasure Principle. My favorite song…..oh there are many! My personal fave would have to be ‘Cars,’ a simple but brilliant song. When ‘Are ‘Friends’ Electric?’ came out, at the start I did not like it. It took some time to get used to it, then it grew on me, and it was my very first record single purchased.”

When asked to share his most exciting moment as a Gary Numan fan to date, Robert shares, “My most exciting moment had to be my very first concert at Aberdeen in 1983. During the Warriors tour up until then, I had been just an ordinary Numan fan. Then I seen this gig, and it was amazing! I was totally blown away, and then became a big Numan fan.”

In describing his love for Numan, Robert says, “I would have to say he has been a big part of my life. When he quit music in 1981, I was gutted and never really followed anyone else as much as I did with Numan.

“The thoughts I would like to share: Gary Numan is a pioneer in synth music. There have been bad times in his career where many other artists would have packed in, but Numan is a fighter and has a strong fan base behind him.”

Indeed, he has.

Photo credit: Ed Fielding Photography

Gary Numan – “We Are Glass” – via YouTube user JoshuaLovesGB:

Gary Numan – “Cars (enhanced audio)” – via YouTube user compelx:

 

 

Sandy Bain – Scotland

Sandy claims being a Numanoid for the past 32 years, the whole of Gary Numan’s career. When asked what initially drew him to Gary Numan’s music, Sandy replies, “Seeing him for the first time on The Old Grey Whistle Test in 1979.”

That seems to be a common thread among Numanoids; the first time seeing the unusual yet endearing Gary Numan on TV was all it took to be a lifelong fan.

Sandy has no trouble expressing what Gary Numan’s music means to him. “His music is my life,” he states confidently.

Nailing down his favorite Gary Numan album and single posed no problems. For the album, Sandy says, “It would have to be Replicas which hooked me.” And song? “I have many favourites, but ‘Angel Wars’ would be mine.”

Sandy’s most exciting Gary Numan moment was meeting him for the first time in 2006. When I asked what his favorite way to express his love for Gary Numan is, he states firmly, “He is God.”

In closing, Sandy has this to say, “I have loved Gary for years, and his music has got me through many ups and downs in my life.”

That’s something that many of us can relate to.

Gary Numan – “Angel Wars” – via YouTube user webbfoxx:


Gary Numan – “Complex” – via YouTube user DrMorbeus:

80′s Music Rules ~ So Does Bobbi Style and the Access 2 Foundation

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That sound you hear to the north is not the rumble of a summer afternoon thundershower. It’s not the roar of a fast-approaching tornado, nor a slow-moving, yet powerful hurricane. That whirlwind off in the distance is the sound of a dynamo going from the usual thousands of revolutions per second to about a million.

The dynamo has a name—Bobbi Style—and the source of his energy is Access 2.

I showcased this perpetual-motion musician last fall (check out the post here). The article discusses Bobbi’s dream of “Bob-friendly” disabled-accessible studios to accommodate all musicians comfortably, no matter their physical limitations. Since then, Bobbi has formed the Access 2 Foundation, sent out a call for help to a world-wide music community, and the responses have been overwhelming. He is closer to realizing a dream that will benefit countless of musicians who would otherwise be physically deterred from sharing their creativity.

Bobbi has asked people like me to get his vision out there, to see if there are folks who can help to make it happen. He has shared with me that to even get one studio up and running, along with all of the special considerations needed to make the equipment and the location itself handicapped-accessible, it costs a minimum of $30-60,000. But, being the driven and optimistic man that he is, he has not let that daunting proposition stop him.

Already, he has completed work on a studio in Vancouver, British Columbia. There are further negotiations in process for studios in California, Nevada, Florida, and several in his native UK. He needs assistance to make these visions a reality. All he is asking for is a donation of time, talent, or treasure, whatever you feel comfortable with, to make his dream come true.

Time – Volunteers are needed to promote, advertise, and help with setting up the studios.

Talent – Bobbi plans release a compilation CD of songs that musicians have donated for the cause sometime this August. All proceeds will go to fund the foundation. Bobbi himself is busy writing and recording for this project. He reports:

“There are currently 38 bands/artists committed to the CD Synthetic Frequencies (it’s an industrial/EBM album). We’re now looking for more mainstream and multiple-genre artists/bands.”

Treasure – Items needed include: music equipment and accessories, instruments, memorabilia that can be auctioned, studio space, and cash.

It’s even helpful to go to the Access 2 site on FaceBook, “Like” it and leave a comment. Bobbi appreciates any show of support for this important cause. Whatever you feel you can do, please contact Bobbi directly at bobbi.style@access2foundation.com.

Access 2 site on FB: http://www.facebook.com/Access2Foundation
Access 2 Website: http://www.access2foundation.com/

Be sure to familiarize yourself with this amazing artist.

“Like A Bullet” via YouTube user Bobbi Style:

80′s (and sometimes 00′s) Music Rules ~ Vladymir Rogov (ARKITEX)

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I have had the absolute pleasure of making Vladymir Rogov’s acquaintance through the magic of the Internet. He graciously agreed to provide an interview. Much to my delight, he put a whole lot of effort and energy into his answers, making this a fabulous learning experience for us all. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy absorbing all there is to know about this personable and highly gifted artist.

Vladymir Rogov- In Sound and Vision

Where do you originally come from?

I usually start with “when.” I was born in West Germany of Russian parents. My first languages were Russian at home, Polish on the street and German at school. At age 11 I went to England and attended an English school. I was put in a class full of English kids until I started to understand what the teacher and the other kids were saying. That’s how I learned English, by deep immersion. I lived there for 16 years, during the 60’s and the early 70’s British music and cultural revolution. England was quite a contrast to Germany, which was ominously divided. Everything was in ruins, everyone was in transition and we were the “refugees.” After 16 years of English culture, I immigrated to Canada in ’75. This was a new world which sounded exciting. I lived in Toronto for 8 years. In ’83 I moved to San Diego, California.

What made you decide to go into music?

I think that I got swept up by music at a very early age and never brought down. Some of the first music I heard were Polish and Russian folk songs. The songs were deep, many were dark and many were funny. The Poles & Russians have a particular way of poking fun at their conditions. As a kid I would see people playing guitars and singing. It was uplifting and I wanted to do that too. I could not afford to buy a guitar, so I decided to make my own. By age fourteen, I had designed and built my own electric guitar. I plugged it in and it worked. This was in England, and the song I played was, “In Dreams,” by Roy Orbison. Who would have thought this was going to be my ultimate calling in life — music and design, sound and vision.

At first, I was directed into studying engineering, but I switched to art and design, and graduated from Guilford School of Art. I also played in a band called Red Earth all through Art School. We played all around the south of England. Later in London, I was designing slick furniture for Conran and the Habitat shops, while writing songs for Mickie Most (producer of the Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun,” Herman’s Hermits, Donavon, etc.). In Canada, I was designing things from car interiors to gas stations and recording songs that were played on the radio.

Who were your strongest musical influences?

As I mentioned, in Germany during the 50’s, the Polish and Russian folk songs. And Freddy Quinn, a baritone from Hamburg who sang about sailors, mothers, lost love, and the open sea. In England it was Elvis, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, Beatles, Dave Clark Five, Johnny Cash, Simon & Garfunkel, and Hot Chocolate. During my Canadian years I liked the sound of Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Seger, Talking Heads, the Cars, and Pink Floyd.

Where did the name for your first band – “ARKITEX” – come from?

I was preparing to play the HEATWAVE music festival in September of 1980 — as the opening act in a lineup that included the B52’s, Pretenders, Rockpile, Talking Heads, Elvis Costello, the Kings and more. I was rehearsing a backup band. We had to call the band something. Someone suggested “Vladymir and the Architects,” and it evolved into “Vladymir Rogov and his band Arkitex.” Eventually ARKITEX became my design project for the 80‘s, which resulted in the album in 1981.

What was your most exciting moment as a musician?

There have been many: hearing my first record on the radio; working with Mickie Most; playing a big outdoor concert like “Heatwave.” As a song writer, having a song covered by another artist – when Long John Baldry, (a legend) covered “Love is a Killer.” But these are the external moments. The internal moments happen when no one else is listening, while I’m playing alone. Getting that perfect combination of space between what my voice and what the guitar is doing. It’s unexplainable. When you fall into the perfect groove, it feels as if you can’t sing or play a bad line. Music is so much about the timing and swing. And when everything is in its place, it seems to defy gravity — gives me goose bumps!

What have you been doing since you disbanded ARKITEX?

After a particularly long and cold Canadian winter in 1983, and inspired by my song “First World Calling” from the ARKITEX album, I married my girlfriend and we drove off to California in my red VW bug — on a mission to elevate function to fine art, we opened a design studio in San Diego, and brought high-touch to the world of high-technology.

Do you currently have a band, or are you solo?

Technology has come up to a level where one person can be all the members of a band. Mozart was an individual who created music, but it took an army of players to reproduce what he heard. Today, it can take one or as many players or collaborators as you want, to capture a performance. On the new ARKITEX album, Glass Man, I am the band, with very special guest musicians, that came into my life.

Tell us about the latest tracks that David Marsden has been playing in recent months.

“First World Calling” – is from ARKITEX 1981, a “tongue-in-cheek” prediction about computer connection possibilities. Now we can do what l sang about. In fact billions of people are connected, globally. So, what began as a computer technology muse has become our reality. During the past 30 years, computers have created social media, internet radio, video and global connections on an unprecedented scale.

“Lincoln Walk” – ARKITEX 1981 was composed during the end of a stormy, winter when Torontonians are anticipating spring. A long walk along Queen Street East, developed the groove and it took off… a celebration of going outdoors without boots, coats, scarves, gloves…

“Where is the Love” – is a tortured love-lost rock ballad, from recording sessions I did back in Toronto (December 1994) with legendary producer, John Punter. This song includes Sam Reid from Glass Tiger, playing most of the keyboards. On guitar is the legendary Chris Spedding, and Liz… on background vocals.

“Everybody’s Crazy” – is from the new ARKITEX album, Glass Man. Based on the first song I ever wrote, back in 1969 in England. I sing and play all the instruments through the entire song.

“If a Tree Falls in the Forest” is also from the new ARKITEX album, Glass Man. It is a muse about true friends.

What inspired you to go back into the recording studio?

It’s been 30 years since the release of the first ARKITEX album. The process of recording is different from playing live concerts. I have been recording, starting with tape recorders, since the age of thirteen. Although my first two albums were recorded in Toronto studios, after moving to San Diego, I started creating my own studio and began recording again. Thirty years has to be some kind of a record, no pun intended, but recording studios have evolved for the better. There’s more time to experiment and learn new things. We have come up to a level where one person can be all the elements in a composition or band. Today I can go direct to play and record — sing the melody, set up a drumbeat, play a bass line, fill spaces with strings, play guitar, in any order that feels good, until I’m happy with the results.

Which comes first – lyrics or melody?

One, and the other. Sometimes simultaneously. On “If a Tree Falls in the Forest” from the ARKITEX album, Glass Man, the music came first. It started with an interesting piano chord progression — which I played over and over again. One day I thought I’d give it a try on my recording work station and it just took off from there. The music inspired the lyrics and it evolved very quickly. Those are the moments that I live for — experiencing a song/design that evolves from nothing to something. It’s magical. Some songs take years, even decades.

Each song tends to evolve out of itself. I’m often as surprised as anyone else with the final result. One can say things in songs which can not be said in any other medium. Michael Jackson once said that writing songs is like channeling an energy that is actually doing the writing. I feel the same way. One is not really in charge of what is happening. The skill/thrill is in going along with it, and capturing what shows up.

With “First World Calling”, the lyrics came first. I was reading an article in Canada’s Macleans Magazine (1979) about computers. The author was introducing these technology words that sounded cool. The article inspired the song. This has turned out to become a prophecy, a future vision about computers, in my amused way. The lyrics still make me laugh. I have since worked for many computer factories and today, computers are a window into other people’s lives. The song goes, “I got a job at the computer factory, exactly what I do has never bothered me. I feel at home with my computerized toys, don’t need to get around, nor do the rest of the boys…” Some prediction, eh? Here we are 30 years later and billions of people are connected via computers. Before that, we were individuals in countries, socially and spiritually isolated islands. Now, we can have friends on Facebook world wide. “We got communication at the speed of light, information of a laser’s byte. You can compute it, you can dilute it or turn it all into a ga, ga, game.” We can instantly share and explore ideas, dreams and convictions, on a global scale. It’s a magical time to be living.

Besides music, your other passion is design. What do you create, and how does it relate to music?

Although we are used to separating the disciplines, I wouldn’t be surprised if a formal study showed that more “modern musicians” have come out of art schools than music conservatories. Here are a few: The Beatles (John Lennon), The Rolling Stones (Charlie, Keith and Ronnie), The Who (Pete), The Kinks (Ray), Roxy Music (Eno, Bryan Ferry), David Bowie, The Clash (Mick, Paul, Joe), REM (Michael Stipe), Echo and the Bunnymen (Ian McCulloch), Pink Floyd (art & architecture), New Order / Joy Division, The Stone Roses, Talking Heads, Sonic Youth, Underworld, Radiohead, Kraftwerk, Linkin Park, and so on. On a recent trip to London I was in Harrods, an upscale department store, and was surprised to see watercolor paintings by Bob Dylan, for sale. I know him as a musician, but there were his paintings… Cool!

We live in a designed world. Making music is designing with sound. In the past, the amount of tools and equipment required to be able to create sound and vision side by side made it difficult. When I lived in London for example, I was designing slick furniture at Conran’s studio in one part of London, then I would take the tube over to Mickie Most’s offices across the city and write songs. In those days, those two activities could not occur in the same space. Today, neither activities need to take up a lot of space. This means that I can be designing a product, while creating the music to go with it, and produce a video about it at another computer station, all at the same time. That’s my evolution in design. I also follow the theory that “a change is as good as a rest.” So, when I need a rest from one project, I switch to the other, as a way to relax and re-energize. It also sets a pace of moving to my own rhythm — that’s my way of resting.

Over the years, I have designed everything — from musical instruments to luxury vehicles. Medical instruments to exotic lifestyle products. Military equipment to trade-shows for mega-brands like Chrysler, Fiat, Ford. Sleek home products from glassware to lighting. Coolers for Coleman; luxurious bathroom systems for Boeing; exotic seating for Aston Martin; self-serve gas station for Exxon; printers for Hewlett-Packard; motion capture cameras for Kodak; point-of-purchase displays for Yamaha; TVs for Samsung; clocks and musical instruments for CASIO.

Along with a plethora of criteria, the sounds that objects emit, play a critical role in our perception of quality. Beautiful things have desirable sounds and a certain rhythm about them. Over the course, my designs have helped improve the lives of people around the world. I have received numerous international awards, including two “International Design Excellence Awards” (IDEA) from the Industrial Designers Society of America.

On another level, as our worlds come together, people need a broader understanding of how to use style and design their lives. Towards this, I have also created a lecture called Parallel Universe ( http://www.rogov.com/Parallel_Universe.html) which demystifies the mystery of style. It explores a world where all styles coexist in parallel. I show that nothing really goes away, but carries forward year after year into the present. I give my audience five keys to help track the origins of design influences in architecture, furniture, products and fashion. From Modern through Goth, Medieval, Baroque to Ancient. Parallel Universe illustrates how it all is still evolving. And like music, it is all just a matter of preference. There is no latest or greatest; it’s all the latest if you have never heard or seen it before.

In 2010 I designed the Desk Architecture collection, with a view that elevates everyday objects to fine art and is focused on the social rituals and human interactions between people. Simple things like an ashtray, for example, is designed to last for generations and represent the social transactions occurring when people share a smoke — a ritual that has survived centuries. Instead of being disposable, these things will last for generations and pass on the karma.

In a nutshell, I teach art, culture and business and I speak through my creations — music and design. If I can continue to share that, I will have contributed something of value to mankind.

What is your favorite music decade? Why?

I heard recently that no matter who you are, if you were to pick up a guitar and strum it, you would settle into a groove that was popular in your high school years. The rhythm of “that” period tends to become our defining groove. Since every decade has its defining groove, for me, that would be the late 60‘s and early 70‘s. It shows, because I tend to know more songs from my high school days, than from any other period. However, there are some exotic new grooves that represent today, and good songs can work in any groove just as well. “New-Wave” from the 80‘s has now also become a genre, like heavy metal, country or classic rock. So, we can consider, “First World Calling” as an 80’s New-Wave Rap song. I would love to hear a current Rapper do it.

Any chance of an ARKITEX reunion?

That would be quite a nostalgic show. Particularly if it was the core lineup who performed at Heatwave: Statten Holly on guitar, Peter Goodale (Michael McKenna Band) on keyboards, Penty “Whitey” Glan (Alice Cooper Band) on drums and Ron Garant (Long John Baldry) on Bass.

Can we expect more music from Vladymir Rogov in the near future?

This is my calling. While I’m still breathing, I’ll be designing in sound and vision. I say, “never stop learning, the best is yet to come.” …ARKITEX lives!”

 Discography:

Vladymir Rogov – “Bring on the Dancing Girls” / “All Around the World” – 1978, (Single)
Vladymir Rogov – “There’s a Woman in that Child” / “Time Boy” – 1979 (Single)
Vladymir Rogov – Love is a Killer – 1980 (Album on iTunes)
ARKITEX - “Throwing my Heart to the Wind” / “Call it Love” – 1981 (Single)
ARKITEX - 1981 (Album on iTunes)
ARKITEX – Delight, 1995 released 2011 (EP on iTunes)
ARKITEX – Glass Man 2011 (Album on iTunes, June) 

Fast Fun Facts:

Vintage Vladymir Rogov – Love is a Killer and ARKITEX vinyls are selling on Ebay, and other places.
“No Tracks for This Train” from the first album Love is a Killer 1980 is on an extended list of Canadian train songs. 
“Throwing my Heart to the Wind” is in the Museum of Canadian Music.
Did U know?! That’s Vladymir sporting his Russian Czar’s hat, on the cover of Rush album Moving Pictures (1981).
Long John Baldry covered “Love is a Killer” from Rogov’s first album.
New World, Australian band, (A Mickie Most production) recorded “Jolson” a Rogov composition.
“Man I sure love the looks of this.” Stevie Wonder, exclaimed as he placed his hands over Rogov’s award winning music synthesizer.
BOOK, The Fifties and Sixties, A Lifestyle Revolution by Miriam Akhtar & Steve Humphries. Features a cover photo of Vladymir, age 12.
Desk Architecture, the collection of desk and personal space objects, designed to last way beyond our lifetime. www.deskarchitecture.com
ROGOV’s Desk Architecture collection “stars” with Nicolas Cage and Nicole Kidman in Trespass, a new thriller by Joel Schumacher. (releasing 2012)
Design Lecture – Parallel Universe 2011. Trailer is here: http://www.rogov.com/Parallel_Universe.html
Look forward to ROGOV’s design collaborations — pens and other collectibles with ACME Studios, Hawaii.

80′s (and sometimes 00′s) Music Rules ~ Benjamin Russell’s CD “Rockhill”

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 A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Benjamin Russell. Since then, I have had the equal, if not greater pleasure of listening to his latest CD Rockhill. I wanted to share my impressions of this expertly crafted collection with you.

From the first opening notes of “Starved,” I was hooked on the Rockhill CD. Most collections I listen to have a consistent and central mood that runs throughout. Nothing wrong with that; for many of us, the listening experience is reminiscent of a great movie or novel that keeps us riveted through beginning, action-packed middle, and satisfying end. Rockhill does this and more—not only does it bring us on a welcome journey, it runs the gamut of emotions to keep us a bit off balance (in a good way), and waiting in anticipation for the next track to see where it will transport us.

“December”’s earnest and energetic hooks make it impossible to not either chair-dance, sing along, or both. This is the high-powered introduction that grabs listeners and draws them in to a plot filled with exciting twists and turns.

“Magic” feat. Sandra Chechik is a whimsical, upbeat song. I dare you to remain in a sullen mood while listening to this track. It picks away at any bad feelings you may have until they crumble, sulking away and leaving your inner self feeling refreshed and renewed.

“Ghost” starts out in a mysterious, darkly-tinged way, until Benjamin’s melodic voice comes in and puts all our fears at ease. It’s not meant to frighten; rather it’s a bedtime story that allows imagination to wander until it’s time to switch off the lights and welcome dreamland.

“Space” has an ominous, atmospheric tone; Benjamin’s voice expertly hits the lower scale, introducing us to his amazing range, in case we weren’t already aware of and amazed by it. Clearly, this incredible voice is going to be the most important element that Rockhill has to offer.

“Hunger” feat. Fred Lemlin has an appropriately angry sound. He’s pissed off, and not afraid to share that with us, giving his soul a public cleansing that we can all identify with.

“Quiet” is reminiscent of the finest that Waterboys had to offer. Russell’s voice evokes the very best that Mike Scott gives as front man for the Waterboys, as well as Matt Johnson from The The. It has the right edge to keep us engaged and interested, yet soothes us through all of the highs and lows.

“Water” feat. JF Dumais spins a tale that draws us out of the shadows and “gives meaning to our lives.” If you have ever thought of giving up, this is the song that cheers you on to keep going.

“Breakaway” is a mellow trip down a winding road that brings the listener straightaway into the comforting, waiting arms of “Connection” feat. Peter Patrick. These two tracks hold a magic one-two punch that keeps the CD, and the listener, advancing through a melodic wonderland.

“Time” takes us on a journey through a different dimension underscored and highlighted with swelling electronica and a driving rhythm section. It feels like we are traveling, and the music is our vehicle for getting there.

“Slipping” is a beautiful ballad that pays homage to a love that’s slipping away. It works through the how’s and why’s of what is happening, and tries to recapture what once was.

“Believe” assures us there is more to life, and that we all need to have something to believe in, namely a true love that sustains us through all trials and tribulations. It’s a beautiful song with an equally beautiful, uplifting theme. The horns are a lovely and fitting accoutrement to the bounty this song serves.

“Garden” has a hint of C&W, that segues into Bowie-esque vocals, spinning a tale of where love comes from. The picture this song paints is a Monet splash of light and color, sure to cheer even the most down-hearted soul.

“Belong” urges listeners through the challenging pathways of life, letting us in on the secret that “hopeless situations aren’t so hopeless.” If we create a united front, together we can overcome anything life throws our way. What a fabulous messsage to hear, especially given the state of the world today.

“Deep Magic” breaks up the serious themes of the preceding songs with a perfectly executed falsetto against a hard-core background. It’s a song of contradictions, both lyrically and musically, that work incredibly well, evoking the CD’s earlier songs and tempos.

Rockhill closes with“Artist.” If the opening lines of this track don’t make you smile, there’s no hope for you. It starts out bordering on being the slickest pick-up line known to man, but Benjamin pulls it off as something pure and beautiful. It’s fitting that this eclectic, expertly written and executed CD collection should close on such a high note.

Do yourself a huge favor, and visit Benjamin Russell’s site: http://www.benjamin-russell.com/index.html

While there, use any of four available links to order Rockhill. If you are anything like me, you tend to select and cue up music that fits your current mood. Even so, sometimes it’s just downright magical to play a CD like Rockhill that will tickle the full spectrum of your emotions, leaving you feeling enriched and uplifted.

The Secret Life Of Numanoids ~ Part Three

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Paul Chandler ~ UK

Paul Chandler was kind enough to agree to be interviewed about what it’s like to be a Numanoid. A fan since 1978, he is one of the core, long-time group of fans that have followed Gary Numan since the very beginning of his career.

When asked, “What drew you to Gary Numan?” Paul had this to say:

“The early electronic sound and Gary’s vocal and image style is what drew me to Gary Numan. I was into music from an early age and was quite happy listening to bands like Slade and other glam rock artists. I did get bored quickly with the pop moulding that seemed to always happen; nothing different was going on, and I needed something that was not mainstream. Punk hit me straight away as it was a great escape from the humdrum. When I first bought (Tubeway Army’s) “That’s Too Bad,” I didn’t think that this was just another punk record. The music may have been of the same trend, but it was Numan’s vocals that drew me, and I felt that this was not quite right for a ‘punk’ record. “Bombers” confirmed that Tubeway Army were not typical punk at all, and something else was waiting to be unleashed! Replicas and The Pleasure Principle were the type of music that I had been waiting for! Ever since, I have filled my life with so much music and all because of Gary Numan and his style and uniqueness.”

Paul continues with an explanation of what Numan’s music means to him. “His music means everything to me. After hearing “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” it blew my mind! His music from the early days still means as much to me now as it ever did. It was like having someone be there for you at a difficult time and they came through for you; a friend who is always there for you.”

“Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” via YouTube user scruffyonion:

Asked to provide the name of his favorite Gary Numan LP, Paul candidly responds, “Can I have 3? The Pleasure Principle, Replicas, and Telekon.”

Fortunately for Paul, there is not a limit in this series for how many favorite songs a Numanoid might list. He cites the following as his favorites:

“Here goes… Listen to the Sirens/Steel and You/Something’s in the House/Me! I Disconnect from You/Are ‘Friends’ Electric?/Praying to the Aliens/You Are in My Vision/We Are So Fragile/Airlane/Metal/Films/M.E/Conversation/Cars/On Broadway (Live)/This Wreckage/The Aircrash Bureau/Telekon/Remind Me to Smile/We Are Glass/I’m an Agent/I Dream of Wires/I Die: You Die/Slowcar to China/She’s Got Claws/Crash/I Sing Rain/Love Needs No Disguise/Music for Chameleons/This Is My House/We Take Mystery (To Bed)/Noise Noise/Warriors/The Iceman Comes/This Prison Moon/My Centurion/Sister Surprise/My Car Slides/Berserker/Cold Warning/Pleasure Skin/Creatures/Tricks/God Only Knows/Anthem/No Shelter/My Breathing/Unknown And Hostile/This is Emotion/Hunger/Voix/Respect/I Don’t Believe/Soul Protection/Confession/The Skin Game/A Question of Faith/Scar/Love and Napalm/Dominion Day/Prophecy/Dark/An Alien Cure/Pure/Walking With Shadows/Rip/My Jesus/Listen to My Voice/ I Can’t Breathe/Hybrid/Halo/Slave/In a Dark Place/Haunted/Before You Hate It.”

Paul recalls his most exciting Gary Numan moment as, “The first time I heard “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” and waiting for new albums!”

As for his favorite way to express his love for Gary Numan, Paul states, quite simply, “Loyalty.”

Paul continues, “When you follow an artist who has changed your life and given you an opening to absorb various other music, you do feel the highs and lows of their career. You want them to rule the world of music and to climb back into the limelight,when all goes dark and comes to perhaps a point of no return. When times were bleak for Gary Numan, regarding record sales etc., I always knew he would find his way again! With each record that was released, I kept hoping that this would be the one!

“Some may not approve of his vocal and music style, but there is much more to Gary Numan than meets the eye. You can hear on tracks such as “Crash” and “This Wreckage” that his vocals can be stretched. Often, because of his distinctive vocals, Numan is dismissed for having a high vocal range. I think that this is far from the truth! These vocal tones are what make him unique, and the great artist that he is and always will be!

“’Nuff said.”

Gary Numan Live in London and Manchester ~ April 1 & 2, 2011

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Copyright (c) Mimi 2011

Gary Numan gave phenomenally great performances billed as “Back To The Phuture” last weekend at the Troxy in London and the Manchester Academy. In Manchester on April 1, Gary Numan and band shared the stage with Recoil, Motor, and DJ Mark Jones. At the Troxy, on April 2, other artists included legendary John Foxx, Mirrors, Motor, DJ Daniel Miller, and DJ Mark Jones.

There are some fantastic fan videos of various songs Gary Numan performed, including one that he penned just that week (“Obelisk/Everything Comes Down To This”). I’ve linked to some of the better ones below. Enjoy!

Gary Numan’s Official website.

“Pure (Live)” via YouTube user GaryNumanOfficial:

“The Fall (Live)” via YouTube user GaryNumanOfficial:

“Obelisk/Everything Comes Down To This” via YouTube user AlmaKnack:

“I Die You Die” via YouTube user AlmaKnack:

“That’s Too Bad” via YouTube user AlmaKnack:

“Haunted” via YouTube user TamTamster:

“Pure” via YouTube user TamTamster:

“Halo” via YouTube user TamTamster:

“Crash” via YouTube user TamTamster:

“Zero Bars” via YouTube user TamTamster:

The Secret Life Of Numanoids ~ Part Two

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Mark Ryan

Part of a unique and vital core of longtime fans, Mark has been a Numanoid since Numan started performing – late 1978, to be exact.

When asked what drew him to Gary Numan in the first place, Mark replies, “He was just totally different to anything I had heard or have heard since.” He continues, “I have listened to him through various stages of my life, good and bad, high and low; every song that he has written, I can relate to.”

A difficult task for any Numanoid is to pin down what their favorite album is. This is what Mark had to say about when asked: “Far too many, but The Pleasure Principle (as it was different and unique), Dance (which is totally underrated and the songwriting is just great on here), and Pure (just far too good to describe in simple words).”

When asked for his favorite Numan songs, Mark explains, “I’ve recently been asked to pick my top 25 favourite Numan songs, but how can you start? However, I do love “Stories” (which I first heard on Numan’s 1980 tour), “Films” (which is like drum and bass before it got popular), and “Please Push No More,” a great song done live at Wembley in 1981 – it was awesome and emotional.”

In describing what excites him most about Numan, Mark declares, “When I hear that a new artist is influenced by Gary, his legacy lives on.” Mark goes on to say that he expresses his love for Gary Numan by “playing his music, and talking and discussing Gary’s music and what it has meant to myself.”

In closing, Mark is happy to report, “Recently, I played Jagged for a couple of work people who are into rock. They now tell me that they are Numan fans.”

Anything else you’d like to add? “NUMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!”

“Stories” via YouTube user GaryNumanAlbums:

The Secret Life of Numanoids ~ Part One

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In case you’ve been under a rock for the past thirty years, or simply have never come across the term, Numanoids are Gary Numan fans. A rare and close-knit group, they are loyal, honest, caring, and kind, brought together from all over the world to support and honor a musician who has accomplished much during his more than 30 years in the business.

As a relatively new Gary Numan fan, I have been extremely fortunate to be embraced by his hard-core circle of fans, making contact through the blogosphere, YouTube, FaceBook, MySpace, and other online sources. Most Numanoids have been with him since the very beginning, the Tubeway Army days. Others, like me, have made the connection with Numan because of his dark wave/Gothic/industrial genre of music that he began to embrace in the early 90′s, connecting fully with the release of 1994′s Sacrifice album.

Rob Stuart (Canada)

Rob Stuart shares that he has been a Numanoid since 1978 (age 13). Musically, he had never heard anything like Gary Numan before. He says, “I remember hearing ‘Are “Friends” Electric?’ for the first time on my little AM radio during the top 20 count-down in England on a Sunday afternoon and being totally transfixed by the voice, the music! I knew I had to save my pennies and immediately buy the album. Once I saw the cover art I was completely hooked. Who was this alien, androgynous looking man?”

When asked what Gary Numan’s music means to him, Rob recalls, “It meant so much to me at that age that I started a band as soon as I immigrated to Canada (age 14). We called ourselves ‘The Plastic Omniums’ and played our first gig at a high school battle of the bands contest. All the other bands played Zeppelin and Rush covers while we got up there with our synths, a reel to reel tape deck, and a drum machine and played three songs: Opening with ‘Airlane’ from The Pleasure Principle album, then a cover of ‘Are “Friends” Electric?’ and closing with an original number called ‘Red Shift Expanse.’ I distinctly remember two-thirds of the kids in the audience booing while the others cheered. The cool kids got it! I still have a recording of that show.”

Rob cites Replicas as his favorite Gary Numan album, with the first self titled album Tubeway Army not far behind. He feels that Replicas is a modern-day masterpiece from start to finish. As for his favorite songs, the list is pretty extensive: “My Brother’s Time,” “The Machman,” “M.E.,” “Pure,” “You Are In My Vision,” “A Question Of Faith,” “The Iceman Comes,” “Fadeout 1930,” “Every Day I Die,” “Are ‘Friend’s’ Electric?,” “A Subway Called ‘You,’” “The Aircrash Bureau,” “Bombers,” “My Shadow In Vain,” “Crazier,” and many more.

Rob’s most exciting Gary Numan moment was very recently when he met Numan in Toronto in October 2010. He tells us, “We had a fairly lengthy discussion about doing a remix contest of his music. He told me he didn’t see the point in it. I told him that many of his fans are musicians and would love a chance to remix his work, and that it was a great way to promote his music, especially on social networks. Lo and behold, a couple of months later, he has the ‘Back to the Phuture’ remix contest for ‘Scanners.’ I was happy that he took my suggestion. You can hear my remix here: http://soundcloud.com/rob-stuart

Rob continues, “I was also very proud to be on the same CD as Gary Numan once in Future Music Magazine Issue 101, Aug 2000. GN was on the cover being interviewed about the release of “Pure” and (my group) SLAVE to the SQUAREwave had the song ‘Heavy Bones’ featured on the free CD that came with the magazine.”

Asked what his favorite way to express his love for Gary Numan is, Rob states, “Doing cover versions of his music either live or recorded. Here is a cover I did of ‘Films’ back in 1995.”

Electronic Dream Factory – “Films” via YouTube user Akito01:

He also shares, “Like all of my musical heroes (Bowie, Eno, Kraftwerk, Underworld, Tangerine Dream), Numan is an innovator, an original. And like all super-talented artists he is humble and down to earth. He’s not afraid to try something new and hang them out there. Sometimes it doesn’t work, but when it does, it’s life-changing and timeless.”

Meemz (Belgium)

Meemz has been a fan of Gary Numan’s for as long as he has been active in the music scene – since 1979. What initially attracted her to him, as she recalls, was Numan’s voice, music, and appearance, being “different.” And, as for his music, Meemz states, “His music touches my heart and soul any time, good or bad.”

Meemz lists the following albums as her favorites: Jagged, The Pleasure Principle, Telekon, Replicas, Sacrifice, Exile, and Pure. Her favorite songs include, “Jagged,” “Haunted,” “Rip,” “Metal,” “Seed of a Lie,” “Crazier,” “Crawl,” and, in her own words, “so many others.”

The most exciting Gary Numan moment for Meemz was the first time she met him at a concert in Bristol in 2009. An accomplished artist, she not only had the thrill of meeting Gary Numan up close and personal, she also presented him with a portrait that she had painted.

In addition to painting numerous portraits featuring Gary Numan, Meemz also does some very clever photo edits. Along with these creative endeavors, Meemz professes the best way to show her love for Gary Numan is “being and staying a Numanoid for as long as I live and far beyond.”

Finally, Meemz states, “I like his old and new stuff, and hope he’ll be making music as long as he can. When I talk to people about Numan in my country (Belgium), I can’t explain what it really is, the feelings us Numanoids have about him. It’s not only his music and all, but just the person that he is. He’s really one of a kind and we love him for it.”

Vikki (UK)

Vikki has been a fan for 32 years, the entire duration of Gary Numan’s career. When she was only 10 years old, she first saw Numan on the British music show Top of the Pops. Her initial reaction was to fall in love with the song he was singing, “Are ‘Friends’ Electric,” all the while thinking, “Ewwwwwww, he’s weird!” Needless to say, that first impression eventually yielded to a more mature, long-term, and undying love.

When describing the impact of his music, Vikki says, “His music means a lot of things to me. Because I’ve been a fan for such a long time each album reminds me of a different time in my life. Pure is my divorce album!” She also lists Jagged as a favorite. When pressed to list her favorite Numan tracks, Vikki’s reaction is, “Too many to mention. But off the top of my head: ‘Sleep by Windows,’ ‘Haunted,’ ‘Jagged,’ ‘Observer,’ ‘The God Film,’ and ‘My Breathing.’”

Recalling her most exciting Numan moment, Vikki observes, “Has to be the first time I saw him live, October 1983. He was ill, so I didn’t get to meet him. I was gutted!”

Vikki expresses her love for Gary by shouting/writing NUMMMAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN! wherever and whenever possible. She adds, “Plus, wearing Gary Numan t-shirts – you cannot wear a Gary Numan t-shirt without someone making a comment or singing ‘Cars!’”

In closing, Vikki shares these anecdotes:

“I once lost my mum whilst out shopping. A record stall was playing “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” and I just had to stop to listen to it. Of course my mother carried on walking and I lost her.”

“And, one thing I must add; Gary Numan fans are the nicest people you could ever meet. I took my friend to see him back in 2009 and she was gobsmacked at how nice people were. I’ve never been to a Numan gig where I haven’t got chatting to someone and shared some great moments. I once spent an evening with the band drinking before they went on stage. All my friends kept coming up to me saying ‘why are you sitting with the band?’ A roadie called Gary (who was miffed because he was called ‘Gray’ in the tour programme) fancied me so I got in with the crowd.

“I also came very close to sharing the tour bus with Gary Numan. His support band Hohokam invited us back to the hotel (nothing smutty!) but some security guy said we could walk as the hotel was only down the street. I still hate that man! Oh, and once my mum had a go at Beryl and his security guard which was very embarrassing!”

Kristin Harris (USA)

Kristin Harris, graphic and video designer, has been a full-blown Numanoid since late 2006.

When asked, “What drew you to Gary Numan?” her reply: “His newer music captured me first. I’ve never heard anyone like him. I was drawn to his beautiful voice and loved how atmospheric his music was. I eventually ventured on to YouTube and once I saw him in action, I was completely hooked. His looks don’t hurt either.”

Kristin goes on to explain that Gary Numan’s music is her escape and it has inspired her in her creative work. It’s difficult to pick just one of Numan’s albums when citing a favorite. When pinned down, Kristin chooses Jagged (closely followed by Pure, Exile, and Hybrid). Her favorite singles are “Haunted,” “The Fall,” “Crazier,” “Jagged,” “Pure,” “Replicas,” “Films,” and the song “Slide Away” from Ade Fenton’s album, as well.

Kristin recalls her most exciting Gary Numan moment: “Meeting him for the very first time in July 2007. He is so lovely and down to earth. Also, getting to work for him on the t-shirts. That was a huge honor.” She finds that the best way for her to express her love for Gary Numan is through her music videos and graphics. She also promotes his music using her favorite films and TV shows.

View Kristin’s videos here: http://www.youtube.com/user/knightvision1228

View her graphic designs here: http://www.kristinharrisproductions.com/musiciangraphics.htm

Paula Raven (Fallen Angel) (UK):

Paula is another lifelong Numanoid who has been a fan since 1979-80. His “distinctive style and amazing electro sounds” are what first drew Paula to Numan and his music. She goes on to say, “I had never heard anything like it before. He wasn’t like other bands of that time; he stood out from everyone else. I was looking for someone to blow me away with a unique style and sound, and found just that in Gary Numan. I remember thinking, ‘this man has come along in the music world, years before his time.’”

Paula continues, “Gary once said, ‘I am just an arranger of noises.’ I say to that, ‘Yes, Gary, you show us just how music is meant to sound.’ The machines rocked in 1979, and continue to do so to this very day.”

When asked what Gary Numan’s music means to her, Paula is very direct in her response: “His music is everything that makes my world tick. He has an album for every mood I’m in, and his music makes me smile, laugh, and cry. You can’t help but connect with his music and lyrics in some form or another.”

Paula pushed back a bit when asked about her favorite album. Stating that it was impossible to narrow the choice down to just one, she settles on her favorite top three: first, Telekon, “a masterpiece in its own right,” Exile, and Pure. She also settled on her top three singles: “The Fall,” “Every Day I Die,” and “My Shadow In Vain.”

Paula shares that her most exciting Gary Numan moment was meeting him in 2009, at Bristol, after waiting over 20 years for just that moment. She had met him back in the 80′s at one of his airshows, but that was only a very brief “Hello Gary” moment. “In Bristol I had a whole 10 minutes with him. I was so excited, we waited for over an hour for him to appear. He was so kind and sweet, and I asked him if he would sign my photo of him. It was an old photo of Gary when he was very young; a fan club photo. I said, ‘You look so young in that photo, Gary.’ He laughed and said, ‘I know (with a grin on his face). My wife keeps finding old photos of me, just to remind me of how old I’m getting.’ And we both laughed. He then put his arm round me so I could have a photo taken with him. It was an amazing moment in my life, and one I won’t forget.

Paula has chosen to put together her own Gary Numan website, “Pure Numan,” (http://www.pure-numan.com/) in order to pay him homage. It is her way of showing the love and respect that she has for the man who not only changed the music world, but has given his fans the best music and live stage shows possible.

Paula shares, “I have been a big fan since the very beginning, and feel like I’m growing old with him. But to put it in a nutshell, I couldn’t think of anything better than being a true fan. I’ve met along the way some fantastic people, and I wouldn’t change any of it for all the money in the world.”

Richard Cubbon (Canada)

Richard is another lifelong Numanoid, following Gary Numan since around 1978-79. Of that time, he recalls, “I was just getting into Kraftwerk and Jean Michel Jarre and heard “Bombers” from a friend of mine. I loved the use of the early synths in a way that no other bands were using them, like on the first Tubeway Army album. I was playing bass at the time and loved the hollow sound of the Moogs and that sort of swayed my intrumental choice towards synths. I got my first synth around the time that Replicas came out over here, and that led me towards more synths and learning how to produce the hollow sounds with that thick Nuclear Reactor sound.

Explaining what Gary Numan meant to him, Richard says, “Gary Numan’s music and the lyrics always meant something special to me. I never fit in with any group growing up, and the songs took on a special meaning to me.”

Asked which album is his favorite, Richard explains that it’s a tie between The Pleasure Principle and Telekon. The same goes for naming a favorite single: Richard finds that it’s a tie once again, this time between “Sleep by Windows” and “Airlane.” But when it comes to his most exciting Gary Numan moment, the answer is direct and without hesitation. It was seeing the Telekon tour back in 1982.

Richard adds, “I always tell everyone who likes any type of music that involves synths, electronics or processors, there are three bands that had the most impact on music we listen to today: Gary Numan, Kraftwerk, and Jean Michel Jarre. To me, it’s in that order of importance, too.”

Richard expresses his love of Gary Numan by writing and playing music that is heavily Numan-influenced, and insists will always remain inside of him.

JaggedHaloUK (UK)

JaggedHaloUK has been a Numanoid since 1986. What started this decades-spanning love was a friend playing “I Can’t Stop.” JH UK was instantly hooked on the sound and image that the song and Numan portrayed.

When asked what Numan’s music means to him, JaggedHaloUK replies, “Everything, It’s very inspirational.” He cites these albums as his favorites: Telekon and Jagged, especially the track “In a Dark Place” from the latter.

As with many Numanoids, it’s very difficult for JaggedHaloUK to narrow down a list of favorite songs to one. He provides the following list, instead: “When the Sky Bleeds,” “Jagged,” “Haunted,” “I Dream of Wires,” and insists that “there’s so many more I could list.”

By far, JaggedHaloUK’s favorite moment as a Numanoid was meeting and chatting to Gary after a gig. He was also invited into one of the after-show parties at the hotel where Gary was staying during a tour, and also had a photoshoot with Gary’s official photographer, Ed Fielding.

When asked how he expresses his love for Gary Numan, JaggedHaloUK responds, “Recording my own cover versions of his songs and going to his shows. Also, searching for Numan clothing to wear at gigs.”

In addition, JaggedHaloUK states, “Being a Numanoid is a way of life almost; it changes the way you see things and how you react to the world. If it wasn’t for Gary Numan, I would never have gotten into music and that in itself has led to many happy memories of playing in bands and doing live gigs. I gained live music experience with a band I played synths in called the “hottest state” and have since worked with the fantastic Replicas, a Gary Numan tribute band, and I’m also busy in my studio recording more cover tracks for them. I’m also involved in the running of a Gary Numan fan site called “Pure Numan” (http://www.pure-numan.com) and I’ve been doing some music for the site.”

As if that wasn’t enough, JaggedHaloUK also has his own Gary Numan tribute website: http://www.jaggedhalo-uk.com. The pictures of him on his website were all taken by Ed Fielding, official photographer to Gary Numan.

Karl Lyndon Donald (Ireland)

Karl is a die-hard Numan fan, and man of few words, that I met on YouTube several years ago. He left some comments on several Gary Numan fan-video montages that I had done (and have since removed when Eagle records got on their legal high horse). Karl and I have kept in touch through FaceBook, and he has introduced me to countless other Numanoids. I am very grateful for that.

Karl reports that he has been a Numanoid since the beginning, around 1979. His first recollection was seeing Gary Numan on Top of the Pops and thinking he was really unique.

When asked what Gary Numan’s music means to him, Karl replies, “His music helped me through painful teenage years.” He cites The Pleasure Principle as his favorite Gary Numan album.

Karl’s favorite single is “Remind Me To Smile.” His most exciting Gary Numan moment was, in his own words, “Speaking to him for over an hour at Derry Airshow.” Karl’s favorite way to express his love for Gary Numan was to copy his hair color and style at the time.

I also happen to know that Karl has another very special way of expressing his feelings for Gary Numan. He has a huge tattoo on his back that is the well-known Numan facial graphic from The Tubeway Army LP. Any description of Karl as a loyal Numanoid would not be complete without a picture of this amazing tattoo.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 5-18-2013

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May 18, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The list until 10PM:

69 Eyes Feel – Berlin
Arcade Fire – Rebellion (Lies)
Book Of Love – Boy
Boomtown Rats – Dave
Cliks – Savanna
Cut Copy – Hearts On Fire
Darkroom – San Paku
Diamond Rings – I’m Just Me
Echo & The Bunnymen – The Killing Moon
Fall Out Boy – Thnks Fr Th Mmrs
Fixx – Red Skies
Freedom Or Death – Inside
Lindsey Buckingham – Holiday Road
Love & Rockets – So Alive
Moev – Head Down
Mother Mother – Infinitesimal
Nik Kershaw – The Riddle
Oingo Boingo – You Really Got Me
Pete Shelley – Telephone Operator
Primal Scream – Come Together
Raine Maida – Montreal
Rammstein – Du Hast
Real Life – Send Me An Angel (extended)
Scissor Sisters – Filthy/Gorgeous
Simple Minds – Broken Glass Park
Sisters Of Mercy – Temple Of Love
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Texan Thugs and Rock ‘N’ Roll
Soup Dragons – I’m Free
Tame Impala – Elephant
Teenage Head – Disgusteen
Villains – Wendy’s Melody
Vis A Vis – Shadowplay

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 5-12-2013

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May 12, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list thanks to help from JerusalemSlim–minus the song played after Roger Waters – Radio Waves, and the song played after Lou Reed – Intro (Sweet Jane). If you can help ID either of the songs, please leave a comment:

A Foot In Cold Water – (Make Me Do) Anything You Want
Alarm – Rain In The Sunmmertime
Blue Peter – Take Me To War
Bolus – Forward Facing
Carole Pope – Landfall
Cliks – Savanna
Colin James – Why’d You Lie?
Comsat Angels – The Cutting Edge
Crash Test Dummies – The Ballad Of Peter Pumpkinhead
David Bowie – The Next Day
Dee Long – Good Night Universe
Dire Straits – Calling Elvis
Elephant – Tame Impala
Eric Clapton – My Father’s Eyes
Fine Young Cannibals – Suspicious Minds
Fleetwood Mac – Albatross
Frank Zappa – Flakes
Garfield – Private Affair
General Public – Tenderness
Genesis – Watcher Of The Skies
Harrison Fjord – Docking With Jesus
Hedwig & the Angry Inch – Sugar Daddy
Ian Dury & The Blockheads – Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick
Jeremy Fischer – High School
Joe Bonamassa – Blues Deluxe
Kinks – Lost & Found
Leon Russell – A Song For You
Leonard Cohen – The Future
Level 42 – Lessons In Love (12″ mix)
Lighthouse – 1849
Long John Baldry – A Thrill’s A Thrill
Lou Reed – Intro (Sweet Jane)
Madness – One Step Beyond
Moody Blues – The Other Side Of Life
Mother Mother – Infinitesimal
Paul Young – Every Time You Go Away
Peter Murphy – Indigo Eyes (’98)
Pink Floyd – Welcome To The Machine
Procol Harum – In Held ‘Twas In I
Roger Waters – Radio Waves
Santana feat. Everlast – Put Your Lights On
Scissor Sisters – Invisible Light
Sigue Sigue Sputnik – Bullet With Butterfly Wings
Simple Minds – Broken Glass Park x 2
Snowy White & Peter Green – In The Skies
Stranglers – Always The Sun (12″ mix)
Thomas D’Arcy – I Can’t Wait
Unheilig – An Deiner Seite
Yazoo – Situation

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 5-11-2013

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May 11, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list until thanks to fabulous help from The Barron:

Big Audio Dynamite – E=MC2
Billy Idol – Dancin’ With Myself
Blackmore’s Night – Rainbow Eyes
Boxer The Horse – Sentimental/Oriental
Broken Social Scene – Lover’s Spit
Chameleons – Swamp Thing
Clash – The Magnificent Seven
Cliks – Dirty King
Cure – A Forest
Depeche Mode – In Your Room (Jeep Rock Mix)
DJ Champion – No Heaven
Elliot Murphy – Rock Ballad
Everlast – Saving Grace
Fad Gadget – Collapsing New People
Feargal Sharkey – A Good Heart
Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Two Tribes (Annihilation mix)
Front 242 – Masterhit Parts I & II
Grandmaster Flash & Melle Mel – White Lines (Don’t Do It)
Hidden Cameras – Kingdom Come
Howard Jones – Pearl In The Shell
Howard Jones – What is Love
Ian Dury & The Seven Seas Players – Spasticus (Autisticus)
Images In Vogue – Just Like You
Japan – Rhodesia
Love & Rockets – Ball Of Confusion
Matchstick Afro – Stereo Orthophonic Hi Fidelity Victrolis
Moby feat.Patti Labelle – One Of These Mornings
NeuroRythm – The Voice Of Dissent
New Order – True Faith
Nik Kershaw – The Riddle
Nik Kershaw – I Won’t Let The sun Go Down On Me
Nik Kershaw – Wide Boy
Peter Murphy – All Night Long
Peter Schilling – The Different Story (World Of Lust and Love)
Raine Maida – A Drink To You
Raine Maida – Montreal
Rammstein – Reise, Reise
Scissor Sisters – Filthy Gorgeous (extended 12″ mix)
Shriekback – Nemesis
Sigue Sigue Sputnik – Love Missile F1-11
Simple Minds – New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Johnny 3:16
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Zombie
Smiths – How Soon Is Now
Sparklehorse – Wish You Were Here
Spoons – Ciao
Tin Star Orphans – Jaw Wired Shut
Transvision Vamp – Velveteen
Wallflowers feat. Mick Jones – Reboot The Mission
Wang Chung – Dance Hall Days
Yello – Rubberbandman (Rubber Mix)

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 4-28-2013

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April 28, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list thanks to late-shift help from JerusalemSlim:

69 Eyes – Feel Berlin
Annie Lennox – A Whiter Shade Of Pale
Barclay James Harvest – She Said
Box – L’Affaire Dumoutier
Busted – Psycho Girl
Champion – Resistance (Skool)
Champion Heartache – Things I Left Behind
China Crisis – African & White
Cottage Industry – Things Go Up
Cowboy Junkies – Dead Flowers
Cure – Friday I’m In Love
Cure – Pictures Of You
David Bowie – Aladdin Sane (1913-1938-197?)
Dee Long – Good Night Universe
Dire Straits – Calling Elvis
Fire Diviner – Wither & Die
Frank Zappa – Joe’s Garage
Front Line Assembly – Civilization
Gary Numan – Cars
Gerry Cott – Lone Ranger
Grapes Of Wrath – See Emily play
Housemartins – Caravan Of Love
Hunter Valentine – She Only Loves Me When She’s Wasted
Icicle Works – Whisper To A Scream (Birds Fly)
Iggy Pop – Play It Safe
Japan – All Tomorrow’s Parties
Johnny Warman – Screaming Jets
Jona Lewie – (You’ll Always Find Me In The) Kitchen At Parties
Kid Creole & The Coconuts – My Male Curiosity
Kinks – Permanent Waves
Leonard Cohen – First We Take Manhattan
Long John Baldry – Morning Dew
Mother Mother – Infinitesimal
Patti Smith Group – Because The Night
Peter Gabriel & Kate Bush – Don’t Give Up
Peter Murphy – All Night Long
Pink Floyd – One Slip
Pop Will Eat Itself – Def Con One
Psychedelic Furs – Heartbeat
Robbie Robertson – The Right Mistake
Rolling Stones – Memo From Turner
Sigue Sigue Sputnik – Is This The Future
Simple Minds – Broken Glass Park
Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes – Walk Away Renee
Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble – Little Wing
Strange Advance – Love Games
Supertramp – Brother Where You Bound
The The – This Is The Day
Thomas D’Arcy – The Price You Pay
Tin Star Orphans – Jaw Wired Shut
Tom Robinson – War Baby
UB40 – Rat In Mi Kitchen
Ultravox – Dancing With Tears In My Eyes
Waterwalk – Never Leaving Eden Again

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 4-27-2013

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April 27, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list thanks to help from The Barron:

69 Eyes – Gothic Girl
ABC – Poison Arrow (US remix)
Alice In Videoland – Going Down
Assembly – Never Never
Big Audio Dynamite – Medicine Show
Blue Peter – Chinese Graffiti
Boomtown Rats – Up All Night
Braids – Bohemian Rhapsody
Captain Sensible – Wot (Maxi mix)
Clash – Charlie Don’t Surf
Cliks – Savanna
Clinic – Harmony
Comsat Angels – The Cutting Edge
Dave Rave – Good News
Diamond Rings – I’m Just Me
Duran Duran – The Chauffeur
Echo & The Bunnymen – The Killing Moon
Eurythmics – Sex Crime (Nineteen Eighty-Four)
Fiat Lux – Blue Emotion
Freedom Or Death – Inside
Fun Boy Three – The Lunatics (Have Taken Over The Asylum)
Hooters – All You Zombies
INXS – Original Sin
Japan – Gentlemen Take Polaroids
Jesus & Mary Chain – Just Like Honey
KLF – What Time Is Love
Martha & The Muffins – Echo Beach
Midnight Oil – Beds Are Burning
Ministry – Work For Love
Moev – Open Mind
Muse – Panic Station
National Velvet – Flesh Under Skin
Parachute Club – Rise Up
Pink Floyd – Dark Side Of The Moon (Side Two)
Pretty Lights – Finally Moving
Raine Maida – Montreal
Rammstein – Los
Robbie Robertson – Showdown At Big Sky
Roderick Falconer – Mr. Radio
Scissor Sisters – Lovers In The Backseat
Screaming Blue Messiahs – I Wanna Be A Flintstone
Silencers – Bulletproof Heart
Simple Minds – Promised You A Miracle
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Big Change
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Texan Thugs and Rock ‘N’ Roll
Soup Dragons – I’m Free
Spoons – Ciao
Status Quo – In The Army Now
Tame Impala – Elephant
Thompson Twins – Don’t Mess With Doctor Dream
Vis-A-Vis – Shadowplay
Yello – Lost Again
Zeus – With Eyes Closed

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 4-21-2013

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April 21, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list thanks to much-appreciated late-night help from JerusalemSlim:

Arcade Fire – Rebellion (Lies)
Badfinger – Carry On Till Tomorrow
Band – The Weight
Bill Nelson – Flaming Desire
Blackmore’s Night – I Still Remember
Bolus – Postman
Cake – Never There
Clash – Jimmy Jazz
Colourbox – Arena
David Usher – Black Black Heart
Dee Long – Good Night Universe
Depeche Mode – Broken
Eels – Wonderful, Glorious
Elton John – This Train Don’t Stop There Anymore
Genesis – The Battle Of Epping Forest
Gowan – A Criminal Mind
Graham Parker – I’m Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down
Grapes Of Wrath – You May Be Right
Grapes Of Wrath – See Emily Play
Hidden Cameras – Colour Of A Man
Images In Vogue – Call It love
Jason Collett – Vanderpool Vanderpool
Leonard Cohen – Democracy
Lewis Furey – The Sky Is Falling
Lucas Silveira – Runaway
Marianne Faithfull – Blue Millionaire
Moev – Head Down
Nick Lowe – Cruel To Be Kind
Oingo Boingo – You Really Got Me
Peter Murphy – Indigo Eyes
Pretty Lights – Cold Feeling
Pukka Orchestra – A Wonderful Time To Be Young
Rita MacNeil – We Rise Again
Robbie Robertson – Fallen Angel
Roger Waters & The Bleeding Heart Band – Towers Of Faith
Sal Solo – Heartbeat
Sigue Sigue Sputnik – Atari Baby (’97 Remix)
Sisters Of Mercy – Some Kind Of Stranger
Sly & The Family Stone – I Want To Take You Higher
Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel – Make Me Smile (Come Up & See Me)
Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble – Riviera Paradise
Strawbs – Ghosts
Supreme Beings – Last Girl On Earth
Tears For Fears – Sowing The Seeds Of Love
Third World – Try Jah Love
Tin Star Orphans – Men With Guns
Transvision Vamp – Velveteen
Wall Of Voodoo – Ring Of Fire

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.

Marsbar Playlist ~ 4-20-2013

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April 20, 2013

David Marsden on the Rock.FM every Saturday and Sunday night from 7 p.m. until midnight. Streaming live via the Internet.

The complete list thanks to post-10PM assistance from The Barron:

69 Eyes – Feel Berlin
Animotion – Obsession
Book Of Love – Boy
Breeding Ground – Reunion
Cabaret Voltaire – Crackdown
Chameleons – Swamp Thing
Cliks – Dirty King
Colin James – Freedom
Cure – Lullaby
Cut Copy – Future
Dandy Warhols – Not If You Were The Last Junkie On Earth
Dexy’s Midnight Runners – Come On Eileen
Empire Of The Sun – Walking on A Dream
FM – One O’Clock Tomorrow
Front 242 – Masterhit Parts I & II
Gary Numan – Are “Friends” Electric?
Gene Loves Jezebel – Desire
Grace Jones – Turn Out The Light Slave
How To Destroy Angels – Too Late, All Gone
Japan – Rhodesia
Lotus Eaters – The First Picture Of You
M/A/R/R/S – Pump Up The Volume
Martha & The Muffins – Black Stations / White Stations
Matchstick Afro – Stereo Orthophonic Hi Fidelity Victrolis
Matthew Sweet – Dark Secret
Mental As Anything – Live It Up
Mighty Lemon Drops – Out Of Hand
Mother Mother – Infinitesimal
My Morning Jacket – Touch Me I’m Going To Scream (Part II)
Oran “Juice” Jones – The Rain
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark – Enola Gay
Parachute Club – Rise Up
Phil Lynott – Solo In Soho
Pink Floyd – High Hopes
Psychedelic Furs – Heartbreak Beat
Pukka Orchestra – Might As Well Be On Mars
Raine Maida – Montreal
Rammstein – Eifersucht
Roger Waters – Sunset Strip
Rough Trade – All Touch
Shiny Toy Guns – Somewhere To Hide
Simple Minds – Promised You A Miracle
Slave To The SQUAREwave – Seven Day Saturday Night
Spoons – Ciao
Strange Advance – We Run
Thomas D’Arcy – The Price You Pay
Unheilig – Sei Mein Licht
Violent Kin – The Honesty
Wallflowers feat. Mick Jones – Reboot The Mission

For previous David Marsden lists starting from 2003, visit RalphD’s blog “Marsbar Theater.” Ralph is the creator and original caretaker of the lists.