Hanging Ropes launch EP on 4th Feb

Im rather excited at the moment - after months of hard work The Hanging Ropes EP is ready for release on Wednesday at Paradise!

@Paradise (by way of Kensal Green)
19 Kilburn Lane, W10 4AE
Wed 4th February (7.30-11pm)/£5 entry

The Hanging Ropes present THE VELVET ROPE REVUE, a show of ravishing music & performance infused with bewitching strings and soul. To celebrate the launch of The Hanging Ropes EP, some of the UK’s finest artists have come together to create an experience garnished with heavenly voices, bluegrass banjos, jazz cellos and puppetry.

THE HANGING ROPES Sultry harmonies intertwine with banjos, acoustic guitars and harmonicas to craft an irresistible sound that draws from Bluegrass to traditional Hispanic folk. The Hanging Ropes’ spine-tingling performances have left audiences from Jazz Cafe to Secret Garden Party in raptures.

THE CEDARS Adding a mesmerising slice of rootsy Americana, The Cedars’ infectious stomp, mournful glow and beautiful vocals have delighted audiences from Glastonbury to Bush Hall whilst conjuring scenes of dusty crossroads and cracked river beds.

AYANNA WITTER-JOHNSON A remarkable jazz vocalist and cellist, Ayanna is touring with Courtney Pine (hailing her as “one of our rising stars”) and has been hand-picked by Nitin Sawnhey to regularly astonish Royal Festival Hall audiences.

LITTLE THEATRE of DOLLS Woven with skilful puppetry, Little Red Riding Hood is a captivating theatrical experience that is both dark and humorous. They have recently performed at Yurt Project (Frieze Art Fair).

Jammin Crew's new show @Notting Hill Arts Club

Sunday sees the launch of a new Jammin Crew circus-themed spectacular at the famous Notting hill Arts Club. We're very excited about this one, with some very special guests for this Sunday session...

SUNDAY CIRCUS

Sun 8th February
@ Notting Hill Arts Club
21 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3JQ

5pm – 1am (Free before 6pm/ £5 entry)

INNER CITY DWELLERS (live)
HERELDEDUKE (live)
DJ SABRE (Metalheadz, Renegade Hardware)

G* - Killa KDJ – Anon – Brink - GT
VJ Joe Catchpole

Magic ~ Clowning
Free-range performance
Vintage stalls ~ Face-painting
Fancy dress ~ Popcorn Interlude

“Ladies and gentlemen... welcome to the Sunday Circus. Jammin Crew pulls back the curtain on a show of two halves; early evening entertainment gives way to late night beats’n’bass - after the free popcorn interlude! Infusing off-the-wall performers with live bands, DJ’s and VJ’s inside West London’s finest big top - all set to a cutting-edge circus soundtrack from Hip Hop to Breaks, Dubstep to Drum’n’Bass.”

INNER CITY DWELLERS
Fronted by MC Rage (who has toured with Pendulum and Grooverider), Rock’n’Road outfit ICD fuse Rock, Hip Hop and Metal with socially-charged lyrics.
(supported Roni Size & Reprazent tour)

HERELDEDUKE
Off-kilter rhythms and Cumbrian vocals glide over irresistible basslines for a brilliant live show, drawing from Hip Hop to Dubstep with an Ian Brown swagger.
(Skint Records; playlisted on Radio 1, Radio 2 Record of the Week)

DJ SABRE
Regarded as one of the most exciting talents in Drum’n’Bass, this cutting-edge producer/DJ has cornered the scene with intelligent samples, crisp beats, and palpable basslines.
(Metalheadz, Renegade Hardware, Shogun Audio)

Hottest 20 of 2008

1. Queen Ifrica - Keep It Yourself
2. Estelle - Wait A Minute
3. Nneka - Heartbeat
4. Kid Cudi - Day & Night (Crookers Remix)
5. Mykal Rose - Feeling Lonely (Emotions Riddim)
   
6. DJ Deekline/Red Polo - Booty Beggin'
7. Buju Banton - Sleepless Nights
8. Mavado - On The Rock
   
9. Rusko - Cockney Thug
10. Hot 8 Brass Band - Sexual Healing
11. Burial - Near Dark
12. DJ NG ft Baby Katy - Tell Me
13. The Bug ft Flow Dan - Skeng
14. Phoebe Killdeer ft Short Straws - He's Gone
15. Lykke Li - Dance Dance Dance
    
16. Kanye West - Love Lockdown
17. Chase & Status ft Kano - Against All Odds
18. Enur ft Natascha - Calabria
19. Karine Polwart - Sorry
20. Paleface - Club Slugz

Jammin @The Westbury - Jan 23rd

JAMMIN @THE WESTBURY
launches Jan 23rd

KLOSE ONE (Urban Nerds)
DOC BROWN (Poisonous Poets)
G* // KILLA KDJ // ANON // BRINK

Jammin Crew heat up a new venue, The Westbury (Kilburn), for the launch of a blazing new DJ night. We will be joined by Klose One ft Illaman (Urban Nerds), who have smashed Fabric, Matter, Ministry and Mixmag’s Xmas Party with block-rocking sets spanning Dubstep to Dancehall. UK Hip Hop legend Doc Brown will be supporting alongside residents G*, Killa KDJ, Anon and Brink - cooking up a delicious booty bouncin’ mash-up of Hip Hop, Reggae, Breakbeat, Electro, Broken Beat, Funk

Hot 10 - Dec 08

1. Gyptian - Armageddion (Emotions Riddim)
2. Kanye West - Love Lockdown
3. Karine Polwart - Sorry
4. Mr Vegas - Deh Pon The Scene (Beauty Riddim)
   
5. Riz MC - Eastern Jam Bootleg
6. Chipmunk - Fire Alie
7. Mykal Rose - Feelin Lonely (Emotions Riddim)
8. DJ Defkline & Red Polo - Everybody Nose (Amen Crackhead remix)
9. Queen Ifrica - Genocide
10. Erup - Click Mi Finger

...And breathe (Acorn Months Revue)

... and breathe. As the nights draw colder and the curtain sets on a pendulum year of pride and panic, Im gathering my acorns and settling into a Winter nestled in my smoky lab, concocting devious schemes for a world takeover in 2009.

Having been busy busting balls all year, last Sunday evening's performance signalled the final flourish of a crazy few months. September's Jammin Live saw Maxwell Golden & South Bank Centre's resident talent descend on Paradise, as performance poets, MC's, singers, cellists and tabla players conjured a blazing show. Over in N1, October's Jamboree launch saw the illustrious Jammin Crew takeover The Apothecary in a riot of bands, DJ's, magic, theatre, fire and facepaint.

All the while, managing The Hanging Ropes has been gathering momentum, with the launch of The Velvet Rope Revue (at Paradise). It was a quality show, with exquisite fiddles, banjos and cellos. I even sneaked impromptu showtime for a D'nB-dub freeform jam with the acoustic soundscapes of Om Corporation. It was a good look. Yet no time to look back.

... and breathe. Fireworks Saturday saw Jamboree unveil Groove Armada, burlesque, bands and clowning in a colourful, memorable show. The following day, as the wind blustered outside, the welcoming warmth of Soundbites @The Abbey saw a very personal culmination of performance and the work Ive been doing with The Hanging Ropes. Blessed to get a great reception from a busy crowd -I have yet to find anything more satisfying than challenging strangers/friends and exposing my soul through words and sounds. Guests Angel Anderson, Laura Rope & The Hanging Ropes all smashed it - it felt like a new era. New levels. The Hanging Ropes followed for one rip-roaring show before a baby-related hiatus. Their flawless set raised the wet Abbey roof, filling it with rapturous whoops and stomping feet that had peeps clamouring for the free CD's. It was a fitting way to finish '08 with a flourish. Managing them for the last 6 months has been a rewarding journey and I see beautiful times in '09.


Final news comes from Jammin Live - Fri 28th Nov. A change of management and changed priorities has led to the sad decision to move our baby onwards. Big tings are planned for 2009 at some well-known venues, so stay tuned family. As well as Jammin Live's 1st birthday, this will therefore also be our last in its spiritual home - the bohemian confines of Paradise. Expect a very special show alongside Jay Cunning (KissFM), Hereldeduke (Radio 2 Record of the Week) & Angel Anderson (Time Out Critics Choice) plus some very, very special guests for one last Jam. And its still only £3!!

Zero Nine, One Love

Hot 10 - Nov 08

1. Chase & Status ft Kano - Against All Odds
2. Mavado - Im So Special
   
3. Kano - Forum Nonsense (48 Bars Pt 5)
4. Gyptian - Armageddion
5. Belleruche - How Many Times
   
6. Plump DJ's - Shifting Gears (Stanton Warriors Rmx)
   
7. Slybeats - Jiggaman Pimpin'
   
8. Federico Franchi - Cream
9. Kano - Activity Riddim
   
10. Count & Sinden ft Ny - Fool In Love
    

Killa & The Hanging Ropes present...

The VELVET ROPE REVUE
Thurs 30 Oct
8 - 11pm

@Paradise (by way of Kensal Green)
19 Kilburn Lane, W10 4AE
£5 entry

THE HANGING ROPES
BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH
OM CORPORATION

Alongside The Hanging Ropes, I'll be launching this acoustic night@Paradise this Thursday - "a show of ravishing music & performance infused with bewitching strings and soul."

Very special guests from sunny California are Bill Evans & Megan Lynch, a world-renowned duo of staggering skill and grassroots charm on the banjo/fiddle. Om Corporation will be supporting with a sublime combination of cello, acoustic guitar and intricate rhythms to paint rich soundscapes. And of course, your hosts The Hanging Ropes will be celebrating with a special show of heavenly harmonies, harmonicas and driving strings, from Hispanic Folk to Bluegrass.

There will be free CD giveaways and it’s also our very own Killa Dan’s birthday... so come celebrate with some fine music in true Jammin style.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=32317052842

And don’t forget tickets are on sale and going fast for Groove Armada @Jamboree (The Apothecary) on Nov 8th. See previous post for more details.

Jamboree @Apothecary (Oct 11)

Jammin from South Bank to Kensal Green, Paradise witnessed another roadblock with a showcase from some of the most exciting musicians in the UK. Cellos, sitars, tablas, singers, MC's, poets and DMC champions converged for a memorable Jammin Live (see previous post). Artists, crew and crowd all left entered with open minds and left with wide smiles. A seriously good look.

Yet there's no rest for the wickedest. October 11th sees the launch of Jamboree (flyer+info below) @Apothecary, next to Egg in Kings X. Hailing a new style of party, its a crazy, cosy carnival of live music, DJ's, VJ, magic, comedy, fire artists and promenade theatre unlike anything you've seen before. All for a bargainous launch price of £6... and with a Bugz In The Attic and Hanging Ropes thrown in for good measure.

For tickets click this link to Ticketweb
Facebook page
www.myspace.com/jammincrewsounds

"Roll up! Roll up!" Inside the realms of JAMBOREE a madcap evening of mischief awaits at the glamorous Apothecary. Jammincrew raises the curtain on a show crammed with live musicians, magic, comedy, promenade theatre, DJ's and VJ's. Clowns will dance and surprises will lurk at every turn – even speaking to mysterious circus-folk could unravel a mystery rewarded with bountiful liquid riches. Fancy dress encouraged, smiles guaranteed.

JAMBOREE

@ The Apothecary (next door to Egg)
3 Vale Royal, Kings X, N7 9AP

Sat 11th October
10pm until 4am

£6 (Advance), £10 (Door)

An intimate circus-themed carnival
of music+performance presenting:

MARK FORCE - BUGZ IN THE ATTIC
(dj set)
DOC BROWN
(comedy, Edinburgh)
HANGING ROPES
(bluegrass, Secret Garden Party)
GUYNAMITE
(nu jazz, Gilles Peterson)
ILLAMAN
(hip hop/rock, Flict)
DAVID GOO
(acoustic comedy)
JAMES PRITCHARD
(magic, BBC)

Joe Catchpole
(live VJ)

Resident DJs
G*- Killa KDJ - Brink - Anon
(rock'n'roll, funk'n'soul, breaks'n'beats...dance'n'smile)

+ Stacey (Fire Performance Artist)
+ unravel the mystery of Coco D Clown

Hot 10 - October 08

1. Buju Banton - Sleepless Nights (Secrets Riddim)
   
2. Kano ft Ghetto - Hunting We Will Go
   
3. Foreign Beggars - Hold On (M-Phaze Remix)
4. Ed Solo - Age of Dub
   
5. Etana - I Am Not Afraid
6. Wax Tailor - The Games You Play
   
7. The Bug ft Flow Dan & Killa P - Skeng
8. South Rakkas Crew - Mad Again
   
9. Belleruche - Anything You Want
10. Queen Ifrica - Keep It To Yourself

Jammin Live - Sept 26th ft South Bank's EAR

This is the big one folks. Jammincrew and Killa Dan are very proud to present a very special event:

JAMMIN LIVE
in conjunction with
South Bank Centre's EAR

Friday 26th September

@ Paradise
19 Kilburn Lane,
London, W10 4AE

8pm - 2am
£3 entry

Jammin Live in conjunction with South Bank Centre's Emerging Artists In Residence (EAR) present a very special show (for just £3!). Hand-picked by Nitin Sawnhey, EAR are some of the most exciting talents in the UK. A diverse collective that includes singers, poets, MC's, cellists, tabla players and beat boxing-flutists they regularly astonish Royal Festival Hall audiences.This exclusive showcase will feature:

Maxwell Golden (Slam champion)
Blurs the lines between music, poetry and performance who combines intelligence and wit with charismatic stage shows. Has performed with artists from Afrika Bambaataa to Soweto Kinch.

Riz MC (Electric Proms, Glastonbury, 'Road To Guantanamo')
An exceptional talent, Riz won global media attention with incendiary single 'The Post 9/11 Blues' and recently smashed Glastonbury and BBC's Electric Proms, as well as supporting Massive Attack @Royal Festival Hall! As an accomplished actor he has starred in Michael Winter bottom's 'The Road to Guantanamo' and Channel 4's 'Britz'.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson (Courtney Pine, Soul II Soul)
A bewitching jazz vocalist, cellist and pianist, Ayanna has been hailed by Courtney Pine as 'one of our rising stars of the future',

Aruba Red (Catch 22)
Silky soul and conscious lyrics from an enigmatic vocalist who's made waves from 1Xtra to Glastonbury with her flawless blend of soul, reggae and hip hop.

DJ Smokey (Mexican DMC champion) + residents
The ex-Mexican DMC champion will keep the dance-floor shaking alongside Jammincrew residents with sounds from Four Tops to 4-Hero, Beenie Man to Basement Jaxx.

-------------------------------

Following a series of roadblock shows Jammin Live has quickly become one of the most exciting, diverse nights in the Big Smoke. Its a tantalising melting pot of the freshest live music, DJ's, VJ's, art and film for open-minded party people. Witness burlesque swing tassles alongside bluegrass, hip hop share stages with folk-acoustic, reggae riddims dropping between AV shows. Anything could happen at Jammin...but its always crackin'.

**Pure vibes for open minds**

Hot 10 - Sept 08

1. Tony Matterhorn - Tour Guide
2. Kid Cudi - Day & Night (Crookers Remix)
3. Busy Signal - Gangsters Paradise
4. Mr Vegas - We Nuh Want Nuh Friend (Powercut Riddim)
   
5. Amalgamation of Soundz - The Sharm
   
6. The Bamboos ft Megan Washington - King of the Rodeo
7. Deekline ft Frankie Valli- Booty Beggin'
   
8. Mavado - On The Rock (Mission Riddim)
9. The Hanging Ropes - Foolhead
10. Pressure - Love & Affection
    

Nneka - Interview

Blessed by a voice dripping with shiver-inducing soul, Nigerian-born Nneka exudes an individuality and intelligence rarely seen amongst today’s crop of soulful chaunteuses. Simultaneously recalling the wisdom of Erykah Badu with the consciousness of Jill Scott, Nneka adds a refreshing African twist to both her music and her politically charged song-writing. On the eve of her successful London show to promote the new album ‘No Longer At Ease’ - a world away from West Africa in sunny Shoreditch – I caught up with Nneka to delve into the troubled mind of a fascinating Lady of Soul;

For people who don’t know about Nneka – what are you trying do with your music?
Its about the content, not just the music. I think I have something to say – my experiences negative and positive. There are certain topics that many artists do not stress despite being in the limelight. I decided to speak about topics such as corruption, bribery or injustice

Do you feel a social responsibility because of your position?
Exactly. I didn’t have the chance to do this a couple of years ago, but now I have the chance to speak about it. For instance Nigeria is an important topic. There are many Nigerians in England, London or around the world who don’t really know what is happening back home – such as what the Western world and our corrupt leaders are doing with Nigeria and Africa.

Your new album ‘No Longer At Ease’ has a very strong political edge to it, such as ‘Suffri’…
I am impressed you were able to identify and understand the message even though there’s no text in the booklet!

As an MC/poet I pay attention to what people say on both a political and subtext level - what is going on beneath the music. ‘Suffri’ takes it deep! Can you explain what the track is about?
Thank you. Suffri is about the Naija delta in the South of Nigeria, which has been the richest oil area for 60-70 years. Shell, NPC and Chevron have been extracting oil but not giving anything back to the people of Naija delta. In the process of extracting gases, gas is leaked and pollutes the air. People have lost their lives, including those fighting for justice – such as Ken Saro-Wiwa [executed Human Rights activist and figure-head]. I’m a voice shouting from inside the Naija delta for the common man without the opportunity – he’s crying out ‘Suffri’. Suffri means take it easy with what you do. Take it easy with the promises you say – if not why are you doing it? Take it easy before you kill more people. Before you kill my soul.

Have you had much feedback whether the Naija people are appreciative that you’re giving them a voice?
I grew up there and when I was there last month I performed the track - some people are very reserved musically. But when they understand the political message they open up. They are more touched when you address those topics.

You are clearly proud of your heritage. What piece of Nigeria do you take with you everywhere?
Its always there – the language, the laughter, the soul. Everything!

So you moved to Germany now?
No, Im both sides Lagos, Nigeria and Germany. I didn’t really make up my mind to move – I had to leave for personal issues. But now its better.

Looking back on it, do you feel your move was a positive thing?
Yeah. Without Germany I wouldn’t have had this opportunity. But also I wouldn’t have the opportunity to study or understand what I wanted in life or get to know yourself. Sometimes you just live but don’t feel. It gave me the chance to feel.

You studied Anthropology degree in Germany – do you feel it has affected the way you write music?
It does, when it comes to searching for the origin of mankind and where we are going. If you listen to my album you will notice that I’m searching for something – a healthy equilibrium between good and bad within myself.

No Longer At Ease is obviously very personal. What is different about this album from your last ‘ Uncomfortable Truth’.
The first was less open. I show a little bit of my true personality but you don’t really get to know about me/my roots. This one is more personal.

The stand out track for me is ‘Heartbeat’. The beats and production are exceptional, while the vocal style is original and deep. What was the inspiration behind that?
That tune was developed in just an hour. I had the loop beat before the drum, bass and keyboards. The beat of the kick drum was what inspired me, and that was what I was going thru at the time.

What artists have inspired you?
Africans such as Fela Kuti, Sonny Okosuns… plenty of Nigerian acts, I really look up to them.

For us in Britain, beyond Fela Kuti we are beginning to become more aware of the diversity of African sounds through the likes of Toumani Diabate and K’Naan. What African sounds have influenced you?
I always like to come up with my own ideas. With the Naija Delta song (Suffri??) its kind of Afrobeat although when writing it it wasn’t intended to be. The father of Afrobeat is Fela Kuti. In that case Afrobeat inspired me. When it comes to instruments, for instance in ‘From Africa To You’, we have Cameroonian rhythms because my bass player is from Cameroon. The guitar licks are quite West African roots. You don’t really hear these kind of sounds in Mali for instance. There are a lot of West African elements.

So you’ve played Holloway Prison…
… haha, yeah that was cool. It was very emotional because these people are behind bars and you share. I was able to speak to some of the people and it was very touching. Many of them were innocent. I felt I was able to support and give them some strength.

And you’re playing Cargo tonight - what can we expect from you live show?
No expectations! Please don’t expect anything, come with an open mind!

Glastonbury 2008 - Review

The royal Eavis' received a proverbial kicking prior to Glastonbury 2008. Tickets being pushed over HMV counters? More mud? Headliners shunning the headline festival? And God forbid... Hip Hop on Gallagher's stage?! Were the omens (or media) signalling the demise of the Festival Of Festivals?

As the disconcertingly-hippie-free mass converged on Worthy Farm, the sunshine poured through on Wednesday and Thursday to reveal unprecedented levels of smugness - a joyful f*** you to all the doubters secretly wishing for rain to justify their migration to overseas, boutique or armchair festivals. And yet I arrived Thursday evening to the familiar cross-site trek through mud in the pissing rain with impractical luggage. Drenched. Had I even been away?

As the rain cleared on Friday afternoon, I witnessed sets from Ida Maria (feisty-but-slightly-scary), Lightspeed Champion (quirky-but-slightly-dull) and Candi Staton (fun-but-slightly-gay). The Subway's impressed with their early afternoon thrashing of the Pyramid stage, emanating a sound far beyond their apparent combined intelligence. Hadouken made a similar impact at the John Peel tent with an incendiary set of Grime/DnB-oriented synths and shouts. In spite of conforming to Hip Hop stereotypes by playing with just a DJ, Lupe Fiasco smashed the Jazz World with an incredibly enigmatic performance ("Go go go go go go...").

Estelle continued the Hip Hop takeover with a wonderfully assured show, that just about made up for me missing Dizzee's gig at The Park. Shite. The Foals satisfied on their much-anticipated Other Stage debut, while hairy rock pin-ups Kings of Leon ensured pseudo-epic guitar solos to close the Pyramid stage. Rest of the night was spent meandering blindly through Booka Shade, mud, the ever-infectious Ozomatli and mud. Apparently.

Saturday morning was greeted by the dulcet tones of Lykke Li and her rather lovely 'Dance Dance Dance'. Not a bad start. Crowded House delivered the retro goods as the sun started to shine through ('Weather With You' anyone?). As sunshine basked the festival, flip-flops replaced wellies with euphoric approval, creating an electric atmosphere that seemingly justified years of mud-wading. As Grime top boy Ghetto brought his skippiest flows to BBC Introducing and Kool Keith & Kutmaster Kurt satisfied the Hip Hop heads, the stage was set for a truly legendary performance from Shlomo & The Vocal Orchestra at The Park.

Mind if I rant? People are all too easily impressed by omnipresent beatboxer's these days (Killa Kela selling Fruit Pastilles?!) and I fear that progressive artistry is suffering as a result. In Shlomo the burgeoning scene has found a figure-head with that knows no boundaries. Not content with showcasing his excellent Vocal Orchestra (including Ronnie Scott's resident Natalie Williams and the incredible Vula) Shlomo rolled out for an impressive 2 hours and was joined onstage by a fascinating roster of guests. This included Martina Topley Bird, Get Cape Wear Cape Fly, Martha Wainwright, Ed Harcourt, DJ Yoda, Foreign Beggars' Orifice Vulgatron, MC Loki, Portico Quartet and Reverend & The Makers. It was the improvised, personal and chaotic elements that impressed most at this staggeringly ambitious show. With the sun beaming and the crowd in raptures, it was probably the most special show I have yet to witness at Worthy Farm.

After regaining my composure with an entrancing acoustic set from Cerys Matthews (returning from her forays into Country music), I joined the masses awaiting Amy Winehouse's unravelling following her latest health scare. To her credit she looked healthy and held it together, even though her performance predictably lacked her true characteristic soul. Nevertheless the appetites of the catastrophe tourists were satiated as she tottered precariously in heels by the front row, before launching a slew of punches into the crowd. Oddly, noone seemed to mind or was surprised - not least the unfortunate victim.

But Saturday belonged to Jay Z plc. The subject of unprecedented controversy, the critics were answered by an enormous crowd that signalled this as one of the most significant Hip Hop gigs ever. Displaying typical humour and astuteness, the set opened with a video featuring famous Brits (The Queen, Tony Blair, erm, Boris) spliced with footage of Noel Gallagher running his mouth. He strolled on stage to a cocophony of noise unlike anything I've witnessed at The Pyramid, complete with guitar and mock-Oasis long coat/scarf whilst singing 'Wonderwall'. He then launched into a rather pointed rendition of '99 Problems'. Pandemonium. As he trail-blazed through his catalogue of hits alongside his expert band - 'Cant Knock The Hustle', 'Song Cry', 'Dirt Off ya Shoulder', 'Is That Your Bitch over Prodigy's 'Smack My Bitch Up' were personal highlights - Jigga displayed a magnetism, confidence and command of the crowd unexplored at this level of live Hip Hop. The 100,000 strong Roc diamond signs were testament to this. The only disappointment was the creative decision to not wheel out any of the rumoured mega-guests (Mrs Z, Chris Martin, Gwyneth, Amy, Estelle...). That aside it was a privilege to witness this resounding success and history in the making - Mr Eavis must have slept well Saturday night.

Sunday saw impressive sets from Martina Topley Bird, Jack Penate, Kathryn Williams, whilst Neil Diamond prompted vintage singalongs - despite sounding remarkably like your Dad singing Best of Neil Diamond. Unlike your Dad, he got away with it... just. Stumbled across under-rated lyrical genius Davey J performing alongside the fast-rising Jamie Woon at Chai Wallah's. DJ sets from Annie Mac were predictably happy-joy-jump, Caspa & Rusko predictably filthy and Black Ghosts surprisingly heavy. Caught the tail end of Sam Sparro's set which went off like a fire-cracker, soon followed by the noisy, so-hot-right-now Crystal Castles. Their set was so electrifyingly abrasive that it got shut down after 20mins because Alice Glass was getting too rowdy. Brilliant, short, but ultimately disappointing - what happened to rock'n'roll, man?

I managed to explore comedy and theatre tents to enjoy pleasant surprises from Steve Gibbin's vicious tongue and Jonathan Kaye's off-the-wall interactive shows - the latter managing to coerce crowds into stripping, walking like fish, dish out standing ovations and screaming "f*** you" in the kids field. It all came to a close with a Groove Armada-Verve double header, culminating in a classic Glasto Sunday flourish of 'Drugs Dont Work', 'Lucky Man' and 'Bittersweet Symphony'.

Sun. Sounds. Spangled.

Hot 10 - July 08

1. Deekline ft Frank Valli - Booty Beggin'
   
2. Queen Ifrica - Keep It To Yourself
   
3. Enur ft Natasha - Calabria
   
4. Lupe Fiasco - Go Go Gadget Flow
   
5. Stephen & Damian Marley - The Mission (Mission Riddim)
   
6. Red Astaire ft ADL - Running From Love
   
7. Mavado - On The Rocks (Mission Riddim)
   
8. Estelle - No Substitute
   
9. Cystal Castles - Alice Practice
   
10. Lil Wayne & Jay Z - Mr Carter

Jammin Live @Paradise (Aug 08)

Jammin Live @Paradise (June 08)

JAMMIN LIVE

-- Official JAMMIN DVD Launch --

Friday 6^th June

at Paradise (By Way Of Kensal Green)

19 Kilburn Lane, W10 4AE

8pm – 2am

£3 before 9pm (£5 entry thereafter)

8 GB

Jammincrew are pulling out all the stops for this - flying top Argentinian VJ 8GB over from Berlin for an exclusive UK show! Armed with retro weaponry - think CZ Spectrums and Gameboys – prepare for an unpredictable feast for the senses. Recalling influences from Prodigy to Roni Size via electro-breaks, 8GB has conquered dancefloors from New York to Stockholm. An audio-visual treat to dance to, wrapped in bass. Served with a smile.

LEFT STEP BAND

London-bred with distinctive global influences, the fast-rising Left Step Band deliver positive Hip Hop drawn from a palette of catchy flows and skanking beats. Enigmatic MCing rides over laidback grooves reminiscent of Latin and Ska. Relentlessly original and irresistibly funky, expect a memorable show from these talented gents.

DJ ALEX PHOUNTZI (Bugz In The Attic)

As founding member of legendary West London broken beat collective Bugz In The Attic, Alex Phountzi has toured worldwide, recorded Fabric Live CD's and added his magic studio touch to the likes of Amy Winehouse, Macy Gray and Zero 7. Continually defying pigeon-holes, Jammin welcomes Alex back to home territory for a dancefloor-filler of a set.

Plus resident DJs spinning an eclectic mix of beats bass and vibes, visuals from VJ Catchpole, screening of the Jammin 24/7 film to mark its launch and super prize giveaways! Don't miss it!!

Hot 10 - June 08

1. Queen Ifrica - Keep It To Yourself (Secrets Riddim)
2. Mavado - In The Car Back (Work Out Riddim)
   
3. Flo Rida ft T-Pain - Low
4. Rusko - Cockney Thug
5. Marlow - Convoy
   
6. Mavado ft Jay Z - On The Rocks (Remix)
7. Sizzla - Im Gonna Give You Love
8. Crystal Castles - Alice Practise
9. Lykke Li - Dance Dance Dance
   
10. Camille - Gospel With No Lord
    

Jammin Live @Paradise (May 08)

JAMMIN LIVE

Friday 2nd May

at Paradise (By Way Of Kensal Green)
19 Kilburn Lane, W10 4AE
8pm – 2am
£5 entry

Following April’s sell-out show, Jammin Live returns for another tantalising melting pot of live bands, DJ’s, visuals, photography and film. Last month saw a riotous performance from The Hanging Ropes and top Burlesque troupe The HurlyBurly Girlys. This one is guaranteed to be another unmissable party!

:::::: Pure vibes for open minds ::::::

WITCHDOCTOR WISE
www.myspace.com/joewitchdoctorwise

Talented wordsmith Witchdoctor Wise has been making waves on the Brighton Hip Hop scene with insightful lyrics laced over irresistible beats. Recent LP 'Trapped in the Asylum' (playlisted by Radio One’s Steve Lamacq) grabbed the scene’s attention with smart mic skills and a versatile style. Having supported the likes of Public Enemy and Roots Manuva at gigs across Europe, expect an energetic show for Witchdoctor’s Jammin Live debut.

NEECH
www.myspace.com/neechmusic
With silky soulful tones, Neech adds dashes of blues and electronica to mesmerizing effect. Honest song-writing is complemented by a smoky voice, recalling trip-hop’s finer moments. Stripping back from a 6-piece band, Neech will be blessing Jammin Live with a special acoustic performance.

RESIDENT DJ’s on rotation

Spinning an eclectic mix of Soul, Funk, Nu Jazz, Hip Hop, Reggae, House and Breakbeat: Brink, Killa Dan (InnaCityFM), G* (Download This!), GT and Doc Brown.

VJ Joe Catchpole will be conjuring live visuals throughout the night. Not forgetting the Jammin film screening... its going to be another roadblock Jam!

Hanging Ropes @Jammin Live

The Hanging Ropes

My favourite rooting tooting Rockabilly/Bluegrass sirens The Hanging Ropes smashed up a roadblock Jammin Live last April. With burlesque troupe The HurlyBurly Girly's warming things up saucily, the lively crowd lapped up the energetic banjo-bashing soul, set to the backdrop of Joe Catchpole's enticing visuals and Paradise's suitably bohemian decor.

www.myspace.com/thehangingropesuk

The following weekend myself, Laura (The Hanging Ropes) and Angel Anderson played an intimate accapella set down at at Cross Kings. Sharing the bill with magicians, ukelele odes to flies and digiridoo-dancing poets ensured an eclectic evenings entertainment - thankfully my MC-led ramblings 'pon mic were well received. Cheers to David Goo for inviting us down. Whatever next, I hear you mutter...

Hot 10 - April 08

1. Nneka - Heartbeat
2. Dizzee Rascal - Fix Up The Road Jack (Davy Dave Mash up)
   
3. Shaggy ft Rik Rok - Bonafide (Shanty Town Riddim)
4. Estelle - Wait A Minute
5. Assassin - Garrison Order
6. Zomby - Spliff Dub
   
7. Phoebe Killdeer ft The Short Straws - He's Gone
8. Mistabishi - Falling In Love
   
9. Dr Evil - Duppy Dem (Killa Beez Riddim)
10. Belleruche - Drum At Dusk
    

Jammin Live @Paradise (Apr 08)

Jammin Live was a roadblock last Friday down at Paradise (by way of Kensal Green). In spite of the panic of acts dropping out, sound-man concussed, DVD crew cancellations... it was a huge success, and relief, after weeks of sleepless nights. The stylish venue was sold-out and buzzing during The Hanging Ropes' emphatic rockabilly-bluegrass tones, while the HurlyBurly Girlys' teasing routines (Best Troupe 2007 - Ministry of Burlesque) whipped up the lively open-minded crowd. My DJ set seemed to go down a treat - dropping fresh gems from Bellruche, Nneka and that filthy Dizzee mash up, followed by some Hip Hop/Dancehall old and new. A riotous birthday PA saw Illaman and DJ Klose One rolling out more Bashment, Hip Hop, Garage and Jungle classics. GT and G closed out proceedings in style to cap a memorable event, leaving me totally rinsed - but with a proud smile. Props to everyone involved. Roll on May.

Pressure: The Return

There's no place like home. Stepping back into the soon-to-be-demolished Warwick Students Union brings wafts of nostalgia and sticky floors. I returned to Pressure last Thursday for the first time in a year to be greeted by reminiscent ravers - youngers who I had watched enter their first D'nB event now fully-fledged ravers. It was a good look. Although the full union (Renegade in The Cooler) looked sparse, the dancefloor got busy and its always fun to step back 'pon stages where I feel most at ease - I feel creatively free at Pressure. MCing with residents Version (long time) and Breakbeat Kaos' Baron was fun, before Andy C & GQ stepped up for standard dancefloor merking.

The next day saw me DJing a Hip Hop-Dancehall-Bassline-Breaks mash up, in the basement at Stimulus (Smack, Leamington Spa)... High Contrast, Logistics and Misterbishi smashed it upstairs. Big ups to Bensun for fixing it up. Back to the old skool, back to the Rootes.

Jammin Live promo video

Jammincrew 2007

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This is a promo video of past Jammin Live events. Friday's party was a memorable, packed, pure vibes feast of great entertainment - defying the bitterly chilly elements. Thanks to Brink, G*, Doc Brown, Sam, Rami, Bhawani, Palani, Joe and Mikey and all crew for making it pop off until closing. Photos to come, along the lowdown on the next unmissable event back at Paradise.

Hot 10 - Feb 08

1. Gentleman - Serenity (Legal Riddim)
   
2. Paleface - Club Slugs
   
3. Nostalgia 77 - Rainwalk
   
4. TM Juke - Skin
5. Alicia Keys ft Damian Marley - No One (Remix)
6. Nostalgia 77 - Dirge
   
7. Hot 8 Brass Band - Whats My Name
8. TM Juke - Skull Sessions
   
9. Collie Buddz - Mamacita
10. Beenie Man - Buffer Zone (Gear Box Riddim)
    

Black Boys Remix DVD

Bashy Black Boys Coming Soon.


Bashy's rhyming relay - the Black Boys remixes - is set for a DVD/CD release Feb 11th. Featuring the cream of Grime and Hip Hop, it was not quite the classic it promised to be. Several top boys disappointed, although Ty, Ms Dynamite and Goodz did turn in powerful bars to highlight the conscious message. Chipmunk also impressed, proving he can match the olders for content. Worth a look.

Jammin Live :::Fri 1st Feb:::

Hot 10 - Jan 08

1. Hot 8 Brass Band - Sexual Healing
2. Munga - Gangstas (Bluetooth Riddim)
3. Burial - Near Dark
4. Black Ghosts - Some Way Through This (Plastician/Skream Remix)
   
5. Paleface - Club Slugz
   
6. Belleruche - Northern Girls
7. DJ NG feat Baby Katie - Tell Me
8. Faggatronix - OMG (DJ Venom Remix)
   
9. Benny Page – Over Me
10. Jumbonics - Red One

Shlomo/Martha Wainwright/Teddy... @SBC Review

Take one beatboxer, spice with a fiery princess of anti-folk and garnish with a British country singer. On paper its a recipe for disaster, but instead left a taste so sweet that it would leave Gordon Ramsay grin like Ronald McDonald. Since its summer makeover the South Bank Centre has garnered a reputation for forward-thinking curating that has included Hip Hop as Artists in Residence. Since gracing Foreign Beggars' beatboxer Shlomo with this honour he has been given remarkable free reign to create 'Music Through Unconventional Means'.

As we took our seats inside the crisp acoustics of Queen Elizabeth Hall, a rough cut short film rolled of Shlomo, Martha Wainwright and Teddy Thompson's rehearsals. It cleverly placed the audience as participatants in a long, unpredictable, improvised scene.

Shlomo strolled on apprensively to introduce Teddy Thompson, a melancholic country artist, who at times displayed a moving voice with depth and emotion. Other times Teddy veered towards, well, a bit dull. Shlomo followed for what can only be described as a total switch. Cutting a shy figure on an intimidating stage, he quickly impressed the crowd at the drop of a hall-shaking bassline. His routines are tightly woven, but what distinguishes him from the growing generation of beatboxers is the clarity of his delivery - from the deepest kicks, to rumbling bass (2 mics!) to the crispest snares. Things step up a gear as he begins toying with his loop sampler, deftly adding layers of his voice to construct an array of tunes. Impressively this included amen breaks, orchestral sections and even choral singing. This aural assault sped through Drum'n'Bass to Pop (Jackson Five's 'I Want You Back' was a highlight) with such originality and dexterity that it was dizzying - and occasionally dazzling.

Martha Wainwright had the uneviable task of following Shlomo. Well known as the long-suffering daughter of folk legend Loudon Wainwright III and sister of Rufus, Martha has succeeded in carving her own niche as a frank and raw singer-songwriter of exceptional talent. She is an edgy character whose scatty moments are interspersed with a barbed wit. A similar contradiction draws the audience into songs which are, on the surface, beautiful pieces. But digging beneath the surface reveals troubled - almost tormented - lyrics that resonate with raw emotion. This is most evident with 'Factory' and the brilliant 'Bloody Motherfucking Arsehole', which gets a rapturous reception for its beauty and vulnerability.

A buzz of anticipation fills the hall as Shlomo, Martha and Teddy nervously take to the stage together - there is a palpable sense that anything could happen. It began predictably enough with a pleasant Martha/Teddy folk duet. The spark ignited when Shlomo and Teddy combined on an unexpected cover of The Bangles' 'Walk Like An Egyptian'. Stripped down and pensive, the beatboxer added sparse beats and inventive samples to the guitar's eerie rift. The result was a thrillingly dark take on a pop classic.

As Ms Wainwright rejoined the fray alongside Shlomo, the show descended into pure improvisation. Thankfully the two display a chemistry that transcends the daunting setting. After some meandering Shlomo began layering loops for Martha to freestyle over, which she does with an innate sense of timing. To witness a folk singer perform so exposed creates a fascinating spectacle. After running this gauntlet Martha retreats back to her guitar, performing a track that switches up the chorus between her and Shlomo - essentially a duet between singer and chopped up breaks that works to great effect.

The improvisation continues as Martha, Teddy and the audience urge Shlomo into his first ever guitar/singing performance (Bob Dylan's 'Don't Think Twice'). What he lacked in voice and practice he made up for in sheer tenacity, which was duly rewarded by the crowd's heartfelt support. Even in this free-wheeling show it was refreshing to see the performers push themselves still further. It all culminated in a sparkling three-way rendition of Paul Simon's 'Me & Julio' that had an electrified crowd on their feet with applause. Hip Hop head or folkie, everyone understood that they had just witnessed a truly unique and remarkable show. Props to the South Bank.

End of Year Review 2007

Tunes of 2007

1. Belleruche - Northern Girls
2. Collie Buddz - Tomorrows Another Day
   
3. Devlin ft Ghetto, Scorcher, Wretch 32 - Dealers
   
4. Kano ft Vybz Kartel - Buss It Up
5. Martha Tilston - Artificial
   
6. Example - What We Made
   
7. Mims ft Junior Reid & Babycham - This Is Why Im Hot (Remix)
8. Wretch 32 - Punctuation
9. DJ NG ft Baby Katie - Tell Me
   
10. Chase & Status - Hurt You

Albums of 2007

1. Burial - Untrue
2. Belleruche - Turntable Soul Music
3. Kano - London Town
4. AmyWinehouse - Back To Black
5. Kate Nash - Made Of Bricks
   

Gigs of 2007

1. Arcade Fire @ Glastonbury
2. Shlomo ft Martha Wainwright & Teddy Thompson @ South Bank Centre
3. Lily Allen & The Specials @ Glastonbury
   
4. Lou Rhodes @ Union Chapel
5. Pendulum Live @Glastonbury
6. Martha Tilston @ Glastonbury
7. Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley @Glastonbury
8. Tru Thoughts Merry-Go-Round ft Alice Russell, Belleruche, Bonobo @ Big Chill Festival
   
9. Kate Nash @ Glastonbury
   
10. Beenie Man @ Summerjam
    

What's Good In 2007

Not A Good Look In 2007