The Tuckshop Community Radio news

New Show: Welcome to our Website (enjoy the art of Joe Gayford age 10)

2011-03-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

So by now you'll have checked out our new awesome website, you may in fact be listening to the show via it. It's awesome so be sure to peruse and enjoy the shows, the videos, the interviews and everything else x

This week our cover art is supplied by the talented Joe Gayford (age 10)and the tracks for this week are;
Regulate - Warren G and Nate Dogg (RIP Nate Dogg)
Lifesize Doll House - Joe Innes
Do Right - Summer Hours
Diving - Evangelicals
Skinnybone - Sea of Bees
You've got everything now - The Smiths
Rumours in Town - The Exploding Hearts
Dust - Love is All
O Lilac - Wild Nothing
Nine on the Line - Johnny Reb
Hamilton Road - Ducktails
Sunset - The Babies
Hypnotic Suggestion - The Apples in Stereo
Have you ever been in Jail - Hollywood Sinners

MIXTAPE: Everybody's Stalking

2011-03-15T14:31:00.001-07:00

We're big big big fans of Mixtapes here at the Tuckshop HQ. Some of us even make them on cassettes, even though some others don't own cassette players and thus, the whole exercise redundant. Though the effort is always appreciated, I'm sure.

Anyway, we're aiming to locate and distribute some of the best digital mixes on the badass, world wide web and to start with we've got a real beauty from Everybody's Stalking, the label behind Tuckshop Favourite Melodica, Melody and Me.

You can lovingly download the mixtape from the soundcloud link below, though do please take the time to check them out and all the lovely artists they're putting out there.

from us to you - a mix from everybody's stalking by everybodysstalking

Albums to enjoy a pot of tea with # 4 & 5 Pants Yell! Alison Statton & Received Pronunciation

2011-03-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

It’s fair to say that when you first hear Pants Yell!, your whole body is taken over by a wave of uncontrollable delight which is reason enough for us to add not one but two albums into the “Enjoy with a pot of tea” category. To be fair both of these albums are both short and more importantly sweet enough to be listened to back to back. Quite frankly a superior way to spend an hour.

Sadly Pants Yell! are no longer with us having decided to call it quits in the summer of 2010 (a great shame as the Tuckshop faithful only stumbled across them at the tail end of 2009) however in their trail they have left a brilliant legacy of cheery American art school indie basement pop. Both Alison Statton and Received Pronunciation (possibly their 3rd and 4th Albums) are a welcome addition to any record collection as their songs evoke images of run down rehearsal rooms, small sweaty gigs at parties and art student liberation.

be sure to bag yourself copies of both Alison Statton and Received Pronunciation

Latest show featuring Joe Innes

2011-03-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

The first of our hopefully many Late Night Living Room Sessions with the Sassy Joe Innes......Enjoy

Here is the Tracklisting;

Blind Muslim Girl - Fergus and Geronimo
Pet Cemetary - Joe Innes
Going to Maryland - The Mountain Goats
Kill the Touts - Cherry but No Cake
Draculas Daughter - Colin Malloy
Supernatural car lover - Bobby P
Life size Doll House - Joe Innes
Whale - Yellow Ostrich
I am produced - Guided By Voices
Ears to the ground - Ice Black Birds
If you shoot the head you'll kill the girl - Jeff Lewis
Call me Al - Joe Innes
Stumptown - Nickel Creek
Pretty Pain - Money Mark
People gotta learn - Neko Case
Sweetheart revolution part 1 - Joe Innes

Late Night Living room session with Joe Innes

2011-03-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

So it finally happened and we managed to get ourselves together to film and record a late night living room session with the rather friendly Joe Innes on a late winters evening. An event which was exciting due to a number of reasons. 1 - we're big fans of Joe Innes and 2 - we were putting our late night sessions theory to the test.

The evening in all reality, couldn't have gone smoother. Joe, the epitome of an urban anti folk gentleman, patiently strummed and sung his way through a variety of his killa records while we filmed and recorded his super narrative songs, all of which were creatively packaged into a couple of charming lo-fi minutes.

The camera lights, shone brightly, the company was top notch while the Tea and Spaghetti Carbonara flowed freely. We'd like to thank Joe Innes for his time and excellent record choice and am sure that you'll like the end product.

New Show - Waiting for the website

2011-02-25T00:53:00.000-08:00

So we're still building our site. It won't be too long we promise! In the meantine tune into our latest show as it's bound to make your Friday xx

The bad boy records this week are;

baby steps - animal train
vultures - micachu and the shapes
bizness - tune yards
hold on (tuckshop living room session) - melodica, melody and me
albert kroft - cuffs
not important - cloud nothings
offensive young man - 40 million mexicans
twenty - wayter
modern kicks - the exploding hearts
to where - grass widow
omg - you say france and I whistle
whitney always knew - destroy munich
pet cemetary - joe innes

Time to check out......Cowbell

2011-02-24T01:33:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of seeing Cowbell late last year by pure chance, but what a chance! As they have been entertaining myself and the good listeners of Tuckshop Community Radio with the first couple of releases. Rumour has it that this Stoke Newington double act are working on some new material so go check em out and tap your foot to their steady Stokey Street Beat.

You can join Cowbell on facebook here

You can listen to Cowbell on Tuckshop Community Radio right here

Tuckshop totally loves this: Stop frame music video shot on Hipstamatic

2011-02-22T05:24:00.000-08:00

We're not completely sure of the actual record that this video accompanies but that doesn't really matter as the video is definitely worth watching, We have reason to believe that this is the first of it's kind as it's a stop frame animation shot completely in Hipstamatic.......glorious!

Valentines Videorama

2011-02-13T23:33:00.000-08:00

Today is Valentines day so here are some alternative Valentine style videos for you to check out... We also have the Tuckshop Valentine special for your ears as well....

Badly Drawn Boy - Once around the Block

Based on a true story, these young lovers tell a cautionary tale of bad dentistry.

Daft Punk - Da Funk

It's your classic Spike Jonze fairy tale - Dog moves to the big city, meets his unrequited childhood sweetheart, gets kicked off a bus.... but does he get the girl?

Daft Punk - Fresh

Francis did get the girl!

The white stripes - Fell in love with a girl

Michel Gondry lego loving masterpiece.

Travis - coming around

Another heartfelt tale of the trials and tribulations of an giant egg unable to meet the girl of his dreams.

Weezer - Keep fishin

Miss Piggy prefers drummers and is determined to get her man.

Melodica, Melody and me - Piece me back together

Brixton folksteppers with full hearts and sweet melodies.

Ben Lee - Pop Queen
A young Ben Lee sings dreams of ideal women.

Gnarls Barkley - Gone Daddy Gone

A tragic love affair between a bug and a woman.

Gnarls Barkley - Gone Daddy Gone from Chris Milk on Vimeo.

Albums to enjoy a pot of tea with #3 The Lives of Charles Douglas

2011-02-10T02:31:00.001-08:00

This absolute gem of a record was actually released in the late 90's and despite it's sheer brilliance, did at that time fall on deaf ears. However it has a happy ending as having been released towards the end of 2010 it's become one of the favourite albums here at the Tuckshop HQ. Scuzzy guitars and garage drums punch through one slacker anthem after another filling you with images of lazy summer days with very few cares.

From what i can gather Charles Douglas was some young upstart kicking around in New York in 1997 and recorded this album pretty much live in something like 10 days. It totally sounds like a New York record, further emphasised by Velvet Undergrounds Mo Tucker filling in on drums (legend suggests this was as a last minute stand in as the band had no drummer)It's also worth a listen,so turn on the kettle, tuck into your burger king and embrace being a waster.

The Lives of Charles Douglas has been released by Broken Horse so go check it out.

Time to check out Lost Boy?

2011-02-09T02:30:00.001-08:00

Lost Boy? resides in Brooklyn and makes excellent music that we hope to be playing on many future shows. Go check him out now and enjoy this excellent video. Who says smashing up old Golf GTi's can't be fun.

Lost Boy? can be found here www.lofihigh.com

Monday Mania: You Say France and I whistles OMG video

2011-02-06T23:32:00.000-08:00

There a lot of reasons why you should pay more attention to You Say France and I whistle. They come from Sweden, most of them sport long hair and beards, they seem to like soft toys, but most importantly they make very, very good records. Full of jangly melodic Scandinavian sophistication their last EP aptly named 2008 was probably one of the best EP's I've ever been sent and was played nonstop for months.

2011 should be a cracker for YSF&IW as they've just released a brilliant follow up EP called Angry Boy. Once again it's full of uplifting riffs and catchy melodies and hasn't left the Tuckshop jukebox, since it's purchase last week. Here is the video to the first track OMG which features beautiful countryside and grown people dressing up as animals:perfect to ease you into this Monday morning.

Check out YSF&IW at www.yousayfrance.com and pick up a copy of both their EP's.

Albums to enjoy a pot of tea with #2 Wolf Peoples Steeple

2011-02-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

Released last year, Wolf Peoples Steeple is one of those rare albums, if not the only one, that hurls you onto a sturdy white horse running at full pelt, taking you on a journey through misty lands, strange beasts, wizard like folk and dark mountains. Full of magical mystery, It’s actually the sort of stuff that I could imagine my dad listened to when he was back at art college, when his hair was long with a head full of psychedelic dreams. This album (the second one by Wolf People) is a recording full of Screaming guitars and folky vocals mixed with thumping flutes and crashing cymbals, thus creating a wall of joyful haze that one can easily get lost in.

Tuckshop Community Radio have long been admirers of Wolf People since stumbling across their myspace page by chance a few years back. We have loved every release since and have no doubt that these guys have further lands to conquer which we hope to enjoy. Go pick up up a copy of Steeple now!

For more info on Wolf People please visit their page www.wolfpeople.co.uk and if you want to hear them on Tuckshop Community Radio then tune in to the show.

Lola lo lo lo lo lola

2011-01-28T08:17:00.001-08:00

It’s official, Lola's bakery based in Primrose hill are by far the best cup cakes I have ever tasted. This blog usually reports on music and the occasional bit of art and photography, however the Tuckshop HQ is so enamoured with these palm sized balls of deliciousness that we felt the need to share it with you all. Now we know that usually Tuckshops favourite baked tipple is the flap jack or on occasion due to our heritage, the Cornish Cream tea, but the time has now come for us to squeeze Lola’s cupcakes into our virtual pantry. You can’t go far these days without spotting a brightly iced mini cake but in all honesty not many actually taste that great. Lola's on the other hand explode in your mouth like light, sweet spongey dynamite topped with silky smooth icing.

Get down to one of their outlets and prepare to put on some pounds. In fact tuck into one and tune into our latest Show.

This weeks show is now out.....

2011-01-28T03:01:00.001-08:00

We've got quite a cracker this week so it's really worth a listen. If you like the sound of surfcore, garagebeat and folk it could just be the show for you....

here is the tracklisting;
fergus and geronimo - blind muslim girl
los readymade - spida
the launderettes - juvenile thrills
melodica, melody and me - diamonds on the soles of her shoes
grass widow - celebrate the mundane
the seeds - can't seem to make you mine
tralala - yellow taxi
me and my friends - this life makes me wonder
the cigarette bums - goin nowhere
forty million mexicans - offensive young man
the flips - I just don't know where I stand
the just joans - boyracer (baby's a)
beach fossils - youth
beulah - disco: the secretaries blues

Albums to enjoy a pot of Tea with #1 Destroy Munich's Don't Forget the Birthday Cake

2011-01-26T02:35:00.001-08:00

Launched at the back end of last year Destroy Munich's don't destroy the birthday cake has entertained the Tuckshop Community Faithfull right through Christmas and well into the new year. Jangly guitars consistently punch out melodies that keep your head nodding and your foot tapping from the opening track right through to the very last.

We don’t actually know too much about Destroy Munich, though we think that they might be from Germany or through a little more research, more likely from Austria. However what we can tell you is that this album is a real treat and should be a definite member of any record collection.

Out on the Schoenwetter Schallplatten record label you can easily purchase Don’t forget the birthday cake online or through all good record stores which will not only improve your day but also leave you wanting more.

Expect lots of future plays on Tuckshop Community Radio as we wait in hope that one day this band of merry musicians will visit these British shores, further enlightening us.

To check of Destroy Munich please visit www.destroy-munich.at/wordpress/

The excellent Tuckshop article by Tom Jenkins

2011-01-25T02:24:00.001-08:00

It now seems quite a lifetime ago but way back in the summer the rather talented journalist Tom Jenkins produced an article on Tuckshop Community Radio for hip magazine Poxymash. It seemed wrong not to post it up on the blog so this weeks interview is with us!

We recommend that you all check out Tom Jenkins own blog for more valuable and incredibly well written insights in to the world of music at www.legguitar.wordpress.com

Here is the said article (complete with picture)

‘BRING ON THE BACON!’

By Tom Jenkins

Jack bacon is obsessed with music. The kind of music that makes synapses fire and hearts sing celestial notes. The 30yr old, originally from Cornwall but now based in Kentish Town, North London, is the man behind ‘Tuckshop Community Radio’: a weekly podcast designed to give an airing to those records ‘which may not get heard by many people, though they deserve to be’; a potent mix of psycho-punk, sunny pop and enchanting folk weirdness.

Tuckshop started life back in 2007 as a way of directing traffic to the site of a failing street-wear company: ‘I’d been searching MySpace for bands that might fancy wearing some merchandise’ says Jack. ‘The idea was to play unsigned punk and have a weekly show played through the site. However, I kept coming across this rich, varied music so I started playing everything’. He remembers being ‘astonished’ at how bad those early shows sounded, but as people started to listen and contact him with messages of support he became increasingly inspired to search out new music. ‘It really opened my eyes’, he tells me. ‘I was amazed at the wealth of music that could be found’.

Back to the present day, and Jack admits he has created his ‘own little world’ around Tuckshop. Described as ‘the new Radio 1’, responsible for keeping ‘the spirit of independent music alive’, it’s very much a one-man operation-as is the accompanying blog. Each hour-long show has a small, but devoted, following, with listeners from as far afield as Brazil and California. Does he feel Tuckshop and its ilk have an important role to play? ‘With the Internet and the rise of podcasts, people can now choose what they want to listen to and when’ he says. ‘If the medium can grow, then hopefully good, unsigned, music can be promoted honestly.’

Interestingly, Jack doesn’t listen to other podcasts, a combination of being extremely busy with Tuckshop and wanting to stick with his own intuition, so what inspires him? ‘Over the years I’ve come across so many creative people, all doing different things, that I’m inspired on an almost daily basis. The more people that contact me the more great music I hear and need to get out to our listeners’. What about in the early days? Was there a template? ‘When I first started I never came across anyone else, although I do believe there are others out there, in fact, I imagine there must be loads’.

A quick search of Google suggests otherwise, but feel free to correct me. Radio as a medium is now more popular than ever. According to recent figures released by Rajar, over 90% of people in Britain aged 15 or over tune in every week. This resurgence is due, in part, to the industry’s ability to adapt to the rapidly changing technological climate, having weathered the more serious threat posed by the arrival of T.V. in the 1950’s. While one in three people now listen to a digital radio, and those listening online and via mobiles is on the increase, Jack still has a soft spot for traditional tuner twiddling (no knob jokes I’m afraid); though he recognizes the advantages the Internet has to offer:

‘I think there is still something magical about picking up music through the Wireless. I love the fact that in London every click on a tuner brings you to a different pirate station. Having said that, the Internet will no doubt have a large part to play in the future. If it didn’t exist, Tuckshop wouldn’t have happened and I never would have come across all these wonderful bands’.

A number of artists featured on Tuckshop have begun to make inroads into reaching a wider audience. Both ‘Melodica, Melody and Me’ and ‘The Hornblower Brothers’ have recently recorded sessions for 6 Music (for Tom Robinson and Marc Reilly respectively). Huw from ‘Melodica…’ feels the early exposure they received on Tuckshop was invaluable: ‘We’d only just started getting our act together and playing gigs when Jack got in touch and said he’d been playing us on his podcast. I remember feeling chuffed that somebody we’d never met liked our music enough to want to present it to the public. It was really encouraging’.

So what’s next for Tuckshop? ‘I’ve no idea!’ says Jack. ‘It’s always moving in a new direction! However, I have a new night starting at the Hideaway in Tufnell Park called ‘Ditch the drums’, which should be a nice and intimate way to showcase some of the artists I’ve been playing on Tuckshop. We’ve also started to film bands in my living room, with a pretty good team of individuals who are working hard for the cause. I’d love to take them (the filming team) to far-flung places such as L.A., to record sessions with some of the bands I’ve got to know. We could tour the west coast in an ice cream van, putting on free gigs!’

We say go for it, Jack.

And Tuckshop Says Cheers Tom!

Monday Mania Makes John Duva the video of the week.

2011-01-24T00:34:00.001-08:00

John Duva unashamedly make loud, good old fashioned Rock which we at Tuckshop Community Radio are perfectly happy to embrace. Two years ago they got us all shaking our hips along to their rifftastic record Fogden and now we are hooked on the equally as good anthem Gå till sjöss (meaning "go to sea" I think ). I have no doubt that these guys are destined to fill out stadiums all over the world with their amps turned all the way up to eleven, but in the meantime if you live in their native Sweden be sure to take this opportunity to let down your hair, don your studded leather jacket and ripped jeans and 'Rock the hell out'.

You can hear John duva on this weeks show here and find more rocking anthems at www.myspace.com/johnduva and on Facebook

James Flames is the man of the hour!

2011-01-22T09:44:00.000-08:00

James Flames gets another huge thumbs up from the Mighty Tuckshop Community Radio for kindly sending through this incredible screenprint. Setting the wintry tone it leaves me wanting to get myself a canine companion, wrap a scarf round my neck and go for long walks in the country.

The first show of 2011 is out now!

2011-01-21T08:08:00.001-08:00

Yep we are back from our mini break in Sri Lanka and have a cracker jack of a new show for you all to listen to! Enjoy x

Here is the track listing....
Mathar - Dave Pike
Damn Damn Leash - Be Your Own Pet
Woyzuck don't forget the birthday cake - Destroy Munich
Heartbreaker - Girls
Nine on Line - Johnny Reb
Garage 0 Muerte - Los Peyotes
Just Want your love - Cowbell
Earlybird School - Charles Douglas
Ga till sjoss - John Duva
See how the Sun - Surf City
Kiss your lips - Allo Darlin
Surfin KMC - Hanoi Janes
Tracyanne - Horowitz
Pent Up Boy - The Whaas

Los Peyotes Produce rawkus video

2011-01-20T12:37:00.000-08:00

We are huge fans of Garage beat and huge fans of Dirty Water Records, therefore it came as no surprise to us that we would naturally love the Los Peyotes visual offering to their latest single Garage o Muerto. Featuring fuzzy guitars, super sassy Latino vixens a large variety of weaponry. This super grainy, b- movie beauty has enough grindhouse glamour to keep us all entertained and longing for a sequel....

Burning the midnight oil with James Flames.

2010-12-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

James Flames is an artist who was born in Brooklyn but now resides a town called Asheville in North Carolina. He likes Cajun Food and Lego and made our day when he agreed to let us interview him. Below he talks about posters, living in the country and christmas presents.

How long have you been drawing/painting for and when did you first start screen printing? Why did it appeal?
Oh, I've been drawing since before I could remember. My mother, or someone, had the good sense to sit me down in front of a stack of plain paper and put a pencil in my hand, and I pretty much have not stopped since. But screen printing – I've only been doing that since, like.... I think 2006 was the first time I tried it. In my living room, no less. Trying to wash the screens out in my shower. It wasn't pretty. I got a little better in '07, but then I stopped till just about a year ago – I just didn't have the space to doit. Now I have a full setup in a great studio space, and I've been cranking stuff out as much as possible.

Where do you live? If there was one thing we should check out in your area what would it be?
Right now I live in Asheville, North Carolina. I'm originally from Brooklyn, NY – spent most of my life there, so it's weird being the city boy here in the middle of the countryside. But it's real beautiful here, and way cheap to live and make art and stuff. If you could only do one thing while visiting Asheville, I'd say go see a live band play at either the Orange Peel or the Grey Eagle. We are so lucky to have two such amazing venues in a small town like this. They're both very different – the Orange Peel is rather large, fits like 1200 people, and has amazing sound; the Grey Eagle is much smaller, it's super intimate and kinda looks like the inside of a barn or something – plus they serve authentic Cajun food there. Both places are run by the most amazing people. I think some of the best shows I've ever seen in my life have been at those two places.

When creating your posters for bands, do you actually listen to music? Does the music from the band often inspire the poster?

I always listen to music, pretty much when I'm doing anything. Either that, or talk radio. But I'd say99% of the time, my ears need to be distracted. So yeah, I definitely listen to albums by the bands that I'm working for as I draw – and when I'm sketching and getting the concepts together, I also read lyrics, watch video by the band, and listen to music of other bands that inspired them. All that usually really helps solidify a concept and direction – it's very important to me that each poster works specially for a band and the people who dig that band. Then, once I got everything down, I'll listen to anything while I finish the rest of the drawing and printing.

Who in your opinion is the ultimate gigs poster artist? Are there any other guys doing the rounds that you think are worth us having a look at?

That's maybe an impossible question to ask, cuz there's waaaayyy too many great poster artists out there – so many that have inspired me, whose work planted the seeds in my head to even start doing this stuff in the first place. That said, there is one dude that I was talking to my girl about just last night, who I feel like might be one of the most 'natural' poster artists around today – Ron Liberti, who also works out of North Carolina, is just incredible. It would be hard to explain, but I think if you were teaching a college course on posters or something dumb like that, it'd probably be a good idea to start with Ron, to kind of set the standard of how far the possibilities can go. Just a few of the other poster artists whose work I'm forever indebted to are Jake Kelly, Ken Taylor, Dan Stiles, Strawberry Luna, Zach Hobbs, Todd Slater, Crosshair, Tanxxx, Tim Gough, Aesthetic Apparatus, Drew Millward, and god knows how many more. Some of the most talented artists today are making posters, in my opinion.

What was the last record you listened to?

I usually make playlists of a bunch of stuff on my computer, or just let it go on “random,” but the last records I put on my turntable were the two most recent 7inch's by Gentleman Jesse and His Men. Killer stuff.

Where can we find you online?

My website is like the central place – www.jamesflames.com – you can see all my work and buy posters, and from there you can link to my facebook page, my blog, my twitter, and if you're real savvy, you can get into my bank account help me pay my bills. Or steal what's left. You're call.

With Christmas coming up, is there anything in particular that you hope Father Christmas will bring down your chimney on Christmas Eve? What was the best/worst Christmas present that you've ever received?

I'm not big on requests for presents – I know it sounds lame, but I really appreciate anything I get. Though it'd be real awesome if Santa knew how to re-stretch a screen, cuz I put a hole through one of mine the other day. That sucked. The best gift I ever got was probably when I was real little and my brothers and I got a giant Lego set – I think it was the castle, it was all yellow and stuff. That pretty much kept us busy and creative for the next few years. I was so psyched when we opened the box and that's what it was. I wish I still had some Legos.

What are your other inspirations other than art and music?

Food. I love to eat it, I love to cook it, I love to watch people cook it. I'm a big fan of food. I don't
know that it directly inspires my work, but there is a creativity there, a certain skill that I think can be appropriated to making good art and music.

Can you give us an example of Cockney Rhyming Slang?

You mean like “There once was a man from Nantucket...” or something like that? Hold on, let me
Google it.....
Okay, I was way off. Just read about it. That stuff seems really hard to understand! I'm gonna try one though: “Kitchens” would be slang for “Ink,” cuz it rhymes with “Kitchen Sink.” Am I even close?
Maybe I should practice before I visit the UK again....

Could you please finish this sentence, "Tuckshop Community Radio makes me feel like……"
...having a threesome. Or a onesome. I take what I can get.”

Cheers James Flames...

2010-12-12T03:36:00.000-08:00

I was rather excited to receive this fantastic poster from the mighty James Flames yesterday. The Tuckshop HQ walls have yet another fine piece of artwork to show off. James Flames is indeed worth checking out and has kindly promised to answer some questions for us on this very Blog so keep you eyes peeled for future postings.

Go check out his website and store now. His blog is also worth a gander as he very cleverly documents the process for each of his prints. To see how the above was crafted just visit here...

Lewes Bonfire Night

2010-12-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

The Tuckshop Community Radio faithful had the pleasure of attending Lewes Bonfire night last month . For those of you that aren't familiar with the English tradition of Bonfire night, it's when we celebrate Guy Fawkes who unsuccessfully tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605.
Lewes, a smallish town in East Sussex, usually a perfect postcard picture of English idealism takes the celebration to the absolute limit and indulges in 36hrs of pure anti Catholic Hedonism. Boys and girls of both young and old toss bangers into the streets with rebellious nonchalance , a lot of Local Harveys ale is consumed, crosses are burned and many effigies are blown up . All in all it's a spectacle I hope to experience for many a year.

For Folks sake this album is a beauty!

2010-12-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Compilation of the week has been brought to us by the wonderful people at “For Folks Sake”, produced by the excellent Joe Innes it features traditional songs recorded with a festive folk twist. Including Dear Winesburg and a whole load of other acts that Tuckshop now want to check out, It will keep you foot tapping and your heart warm. Better still the proceeds go to charity so go visit this site and bag yourself a copy.

A quick exchange with Dead Zebbra

2010-12-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

Dead Zebbra make the type of music that would make your parents cover thier ears and ask you to turn down when listening through the stereo in your bedroom. Their songs are loud, fast and will put the fear into most old people, scaring all members of the local neighbourhood watch . They're also pretty amenable and seemed happy to talk to Tuckshop Community Radio about Horse Shoes (local high end cuisine ), their home town and Nintendo characters.

So Dead Zebbra could you please introduce yourselves to us?
We're Dead Zebbra, a three piece hard rock band from the U.S.A that started in the spring of 2008. Our main influences are Nirvana and Led Zeppelin. We got sick of all the "rock" that was on the radio and decided we needed to do something to save it. Our original bassist Matt left in the summer of 09 was replaced by some fill in bassists and eventually the spot was taken by Amanda Radford.
Nathan Leinberger(guitar, vocals) and Kyle Wells(drums) are original founding members.
We recorded our first album "Peachy Keen" in early 2009...and we are still trying to release it. We are currently recording an EP. Also we toured the east coast of the U.S in June 2010 and are planning more tours in the Spring and Summer of 2011

Where do you guys live and what's it like?
We live in Springfield Illinois, but we all grew up in small towns outside of Springfield. Springfield has high crime and high unemployment. There's nothing to do and little future for people here. Its hot and overly humid in the summer and colder than a witch's titty in the winter.

If you were playing on a Nintendo and you were magically pulled into the game, what character would you like to be and why?
Nathan:Hmmm, that's a good question. I think maybe the dog from Duck Hunt. I would like to laugh at peoples failures.
Amanda: Legend Of Zelda. I'd be Link because he has a cool sword and an awesome costume.
Kyle: Mario Cart, I would be Bowser, because man...he's gnarly.

Why are you guys called Dead Zebbra?
Nathan: one night after having a few too many beers, I was watching the show Man VS Wild and he was in Africa and looking for something to eat. He came upon a dead zebra but kept pronouncing it Zeb Bra. Being drunk I thought this was a good name. The next day at practice I thought it was stupid, but suggested it anyway...oddly, they liked it and it stuck.

As a child I once went to Twycross Zoo and saw an animal that was a cross between a Zebra and a horse, it looked like a brown and black Zebra, do you know what that animal is called? have you ever seen any strange animals?
Nathan: Of coarse! That's a Zorse...its what Zorro rides. I think Michael Jackson is the strangest animal Ive ever seen.
Kyle: An Alligator Gar is pretty weird
Amanda: An Okapi, a half horse/zebra that lives in Africa. A Frilled-neck Lizard is the weirdest thing Ive seen.

Besides yourself ,who are the three musical artists we should check out after reading this interview?
Bands you should check out...Soy City Stranglers from Decatur Illinois,
The Black Clouds from New Jersey and Oblivion from Minnesota.

What was the last thing you watched on the television? what was it about?
Amanda: 1000 Ways To Die, it was about a bunch of people dying in absurd ways.
Nathan: The Templar Code on the History channel. It was about the Knights Templar.
Kyle: The First 48...Its a crime scene investigation show.

Tuckshop Community Radio loves music, but we also love food what is your favourite food?
Amanda: Fried Chicken.
Nathan: Springfield has its own dish. Its called a Horse Shoe. You have a piece of toast on bottom, then a Hamburger, although you can put almost anything on it...like chicken or fish. Then you put a bunch of fries on top of that and smother the whole thing in cheese sauce. Its the shit.
Kyle: TACOS!!

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever seen at a gig?
Nathan: This band called The Sex Zombies from New Jersey throw tampons out into the crowd.
Kyle: Yeah the Sex Zombies show. The singer/guitarist put one of the tampons in his beer and drank it.
Amanda: The light shows.

Can you please describe Dead Zebbra in one sentence?
Nathan: We've been soaked in mud, cleaned in bleach and coated in an addictive sugary substance for your enjoyment.

On a scale of one to infinity how much do you like Tuckshop Community Radio?
Nathan: After all the planets align and this world is destroyed and all that remains of Earth are the radio signals...we will still be listening.

Dead Zebbra can be found on their myspace page here.

To listen to Tuckshop Community Radio just tune in here

Huxley Piece for Skirt V Shirt

2010-12-06T02:41:00.000-08:00

So the Skirt Verses Shirt debate is back on and as a result I've just posted a piece on Huxley Jumpers, which I thought people might have an interest in seeing as it's so bleedin cold!

If you want to check out more from Skirt V Shirt then go visit the blog or facebook page

With the temperature dropping and with the goose pimples slowly crawling up ones arm Huxley Sweaters are just the thing to keep you warm and inject some colour into your wardrobe. Made from the finest Scottish Merino by old boy wool specialists who have been weaving Scottish knitwear since 1874, these guys clearly know a thing or two about producing quality garments.

Bright and bold, Huxley are just waiting to be added to many a gents staple wardrobe, and who could argue? as merino wool is soft , thin and warm. Perfect for days when one needs to look sharp, take a stroll down the pub or as an all important goal post when having a kick about down the park.

Huxley are 100% British and are without a doubt kicking the sand in the faces of all those Ralph Lauren cable knit wearing wise-guys. There is a British dandy in all of us, so grow a beard, embrace the colour and and throw a Huxley jumper over your shoulders.

Huxley jumpers can be picked up at a whole host of independent stores and can be bought at their own shop www.huxleyclothing.co.uk

Bye Bye Bernard is out now!

2010-12-04T06:38:00.001-08:00

This weeks show is dedicated to Bernard Matthews who served the nation with premium Turkey products (or so we think) Enjoy!

Tuckshop Christmas Photo Comp is now open for entries.

2010-12-04T03:04:00.000-08:00

As the festive season is upon us and also due to the fact that we have a sack of goodies that even Father Christmas would have a job carrying we at Tuckshop Community Radio have decided that the time has come to have another photo competition.

The rules are easy; send us your photographs of what you think best represents Christmas.... it's that simple!

We'll upload every picture we've been sent on our Facebook page and at the end of each week we will post the best up here on the blog. We may even use your picture as the artwork for that week's episode.

So raise your mobile phone, Olympus trip, Lomo or digital Camera high in the air start snapping and claim our bag of goodies that includes records, t-shirts and sweets.

Please send your photo's to tuckshopcommunityradio@googlemail.com or alternatively upload them to our Facebook page.

Who's the Daddy?

2010-12-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

Way back in the summer I stumbled across the Daddy Donkey burrito stall on Leather Lane whilst on my regular trip to Peters to get my locks trimmed. I can't vouch for the food but the actual stall is mighty impressive covered from head to toe in this brilliant artwork, at the time i had my trusty LCA Lomo so I snapped away,but a week later that actual roll was accidentally thrown out. However earlier today I arrived at Peters with just enough light to replay the shoot, although this time i was armed with my trusty iphone so the pics could get straight to the blog in quick time.

If you're ever in Leather lane you should give Daddy Donkey a try and if you ever in need of a decent barbers, Peters will happily sort you out with the best short back and sides a man should ever need.

Jay Bee now has a website!

2010-12-02T09:02:00.001-08:00

Resident Tuckshop artist Jay Bee has just set up a new exciting Tumblr Blog. Responsible for the rather shambolic artwork that has become a important part of Tuckshop Community Radio, his more polished pieces and daily photographic insights can be viewed here on Tumblr……Go and say hello!

Christmastime Approximately is out now..

2010-12-02T05:06:00.000-08:00

The Great people at Where it's at is where you are have just put together a very merry compilation of Christmas records. Full of Indie festive cheer it features records from the likes of Betty and the Werewolves,Eux Autres and Jeff Mellin. Our personal favourite is the cover of East 17's stay another day by The Ei8ht Expect a duet with the legend Brian Harvey in early 2011

Go bag yourself a copy here (they have a limited number of free downloads available!)

Animal Train goodies received with gratitude.

2010-12-01T06:37:00.001-08:00

A big thank you to Animal Train - a loud raucous Punk band straight outta philly who are fresher than any early Will Smith comedy and in all honesty even harder than the sheer upper body strength of Uncle phil. These guys posted us a selection of goodies which including stickers and even more records which we are eternally grateful for.

Go check out Animal Train Now and if you're reading this and want to send us your t-shirt then please get in touch!!

Worthwhile Skatistan Documentary

2010-11-30T03:05:00.000-08:00

This is an incredibly heart warming film about young skateboarders in Afghanistan. Incredibly poignant and definitely worth watching.

SKATEISTAN: TO LIVE AND SKATE KABUL from Diesel New Voices on Vimeo.

Save the Students (fight the fees)

2010-11-29T04:01:00.000-08:00

This week's outing os dedicated to all those students here in England....go on have a listen and fight the power.

A snippet into the lives of kiss kiss fantastic (an interview of sorts)

2010-11-28T07:06:00.000-08:00

Kiss Kiss Fantastic come from Florida and California, they are a musical project made possible by the internet and spend most of their time sending music to one another. Tuckshop Community Radio managed to track one half down (Jeremy in Florida) and persuade him to discuss life, music and his local hood...

So Kiss Kiss Fantastic can you give us a summary of who you actually are?

We are Rachel Levy and Jeremy Mullins, both living in opposite ends of the American geographical spectra. Rachel lives in southern California, while I live, most annoyingly, in northwest Florida. We're two musicians who met harmoniously through a site called www.hitrecord.org; it's a wonderful site run by actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt and his late brother Dan, and it's a place where anybody with any sort of artistic desire, be it photography, music, or video can post and mix up all the uploaded art. I came on around January of this year, and Rachel heard one of my songs (that would later become a single off our EP, "Red/Blue Shift") called "Violet". She loved it, and remixed it, basically, and what you hear on that album is what she came up with. I was so blown away by what she did, and sheepishly asked if we could form a band; to my surprise, she was more than excited, and from there, it took off.

We would like to know a little about the place you live in, if Tuckshop Community Radio were going to pull up into your "hood" in our Ice Cream van/tour bus where would you take us and how would we spend your day?

Well, living in northwest Florida, it's rare to see a ice cream truck, so I'd probably want to ride around the city of Pensacola (where I reside) and give out ice cream to all the kids. They don't get to enjoy that, even when it's insanely hot and humid. Other than that, I don't really think there's anything that's going to blow you guys away, Rachel included. It's got beautiful sunsets, but everybody gets those once in a while. We have painted bridges, haunted houses, and a battleship port. Other than that, there's really not much to this place. The only two things I can say I would have to show you guys directly depends on when you were here: 1. Every Wednesday near the time of an air show, the Blue Angels fighter planes practice in the skies above us. It makes for great fun, and they generally fly directly overhead. It's loud, but if you're not in the middle of doing something important, it's also quite entertaining. 2. I am not sure what kind of storms you guys get, but here, they can be so very violent. Not violent enough to produce a tornado or anything, but the convection storms we get are so chock full of hail, wind, and lightning, it can almost seem like the end of the world. Maybe it's me, but as soon as I see those dark, ominous clouds rumbling over the horizon, I get so excited. So, if I saw those in our Ice Cream van/tour bus, I'd sit us up on the highest hill and wait for the magic.

So we are always on the look out for local music, are there any artists closely that we should check out?

This question is so much better suited for Rachel. Where she lives, I'm sure there's tons of amazing music. And my answer could have more to do with my cynicism towards local music in general, but for a short time about 5 years ago, I dabbled in playing locally. Here, it's all about the sports bars and the clubs. The music I generally play doesn't go well there, especially since they're expecting Alan Jackson cover songs (or worse, Creed covers….). Music is pretty basic around here, hence why I had to find somebody outside my hometown to play to. I'm not saying there probably aren't good venues around here, but they're generally coffee shops or they're hipster garbage dumps, and I can't stand people who think being "scene" is something to wear on their hats proudly.

When you were at high school what category did you fall into? were you a geek, jock, stoner, cheerleader, etc etc

Hmmm, what was I?….Well, if my love of violent weather didn't give it away, I would say I was closer to the geek clique, I suppose. I didn't really fit in with those guys either, though. I always felt closer to that group, but then again, they always had their geekiness turned up to 11, and I wasn't about that. I tried to play sports, and was pretty decent at basketball, but that bored me, too. Also, I was a skinny little kid, so I had that going against me. I did hang out with a lot of stoners from time-to-time, but again, I didn't feel a part of that group. I just sort of floated around. I'm sure I could have fit into any crowd, mainly because I didn't talk very much, and when I did, it was usually unnecessarily sarcastic.

If we were to say to you "Cornish Pasty" would you know what this was?

I should ask my sibling; she'd know. She lives in a military base near London. But I shall not cheat! It sounds familiar…I seem to remember something to do with steak? I have no idea. No.

My mate Matthew Rodda, visited florida when he was 9 with his family, when he came back he had a photo of a snake round his neck, the autographs of Chip n Dale and an amazing sun visor in bright green with orlando emblazoned across it - living in Florida, can you relate to any of this?

Hells yeah, I can relate to that. The snake part, not so much. But I totally have photographs and autographs of Chip n Dale AND the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. And Beetlejuice. That's central Florida, and that's the idea most people have when I ask them what they think of Florida (that, and that it's a giant retirement home - which isn't necessarily false - we have what we call "snowbirds": people who come down from up north during the winter to relax here). However, the more realistic version of Florida is a lot of backwoods people making a lot of backwoods decisions. Teachers get paid shit here, and educational funding is quickly becoming a joke. We're a big red state, and the "McCain/Palin" stickers all over the place are just…ugh, I just shudder to think of the ignorance. That's a good word. It's a bunch of ignorant backwoods people. If you've seen "Deliverance", then you've seen to what extent to which these people exist (to be fair, I lived in Louisiana for a while, as well, and it's the same there). And then, of course, there's Orlando and DisneyWorld.

How would you best describe your sound?

That's a great question. I used to think I didn't have my own sound - that I could be a chameleon. However, after playing for so long and writing as much as I have, I've come to realize that that isn't the case at all, and that I'm an idiot. My sound would be closer to a general melancholy noise, I suppose. I never really think about it that much anymore. I've come to realize that I shouldn't think so much when it comes

If you had to recommend us one book to read what would it be?

The 9/11 Commission Report. Want to get a sense of what America and its policies is really like? This is the book that will tell you. (If that doesn't interest you, then "Jurassic Park" by Michael Crichton. I love that book - so much math and science joy to be had. Also, DINOSAURS.)

Did you go to your prom night? what did you wear and who did you go with?

Yes, actually, I did. I went with no one…just myself. I mean, I went with friends, but I was too shy to ask anybody, and I sure as hell wasn't going to get anybody to ask me. It wasn't bad, though. We had it at…well, know that I say it, it sounds so redneck, but we had ours at the zoo. I loved it. We had bamboo all over th eplace and there was even a train ride to see all the animals.

If there was a hurricane fast approaching and you had to lock yourself in a basement with only 3 albums what would you take and why?

Well, nobody really has basements around here, mainly due to the fact that we are right at sea-level (and in some cases, below). However, I love these types of questions. What 3 albums would I take? That's a tough one, obviously - let's see…

1. Refused - The Shape of Punk to Come : This album is the first of these three that changed my way of thinking about music forever. Every note on this album is absolutely perfect.

2. 12Rods - Split Personalities : Back when MTV2 played videos nonstop, I got a view of the video for their song "Split Personality", and I absolutely fell in love with this band. They were short-lived, sadly, but their albums have constantly influenced me. An absolute must-listen to? "I Wish You Were A Girl". Just amazing.

3. William Basinski - The Disintegration Loops : Okay, this one is a cheat. It's actually 4 different albums, but it's one full ambient collective. This music is the soundtrack of most my days, and I tend to fall asleep listening to it as well.

Please finish this sentence, Tuckshop Community Radio is…..
committed to excellence in music as an artform. I think.

To check out Kiss Kiss Fantastic please visit them on their myspace page.

To stay abreast of all things Tuckshop why not become a fan of us on Facebook?

New show out Mr B's , Rhymes and Life.

2010-11-18T09:54:00.000-08:00

We've decided to dedicate this week's show to the wonderful Mr B's Ice Cream parlour. It is fair to say they make the best Ice Cream you'll ever taste(a fact) having picked some super duper ice cream award.,
The show as always is a cracker and if you're ever in Hayle then go and pay Mr B's a visit and give your taste buds a real treat.

Tuckshop Community Radio Advertising Campaign

2010-11-18T09:04:00.001-08:00

It's easy to listen to Tuckshop Community Radio. Even a baby can download it!

Halloween Scary Photo comp results - Totally Spookalicious.

2010-11-02T03:58:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that it was only done in a week. The Tuckshop Community Radio Halloween photo comp went pretty well and we received over 10 entries! As the standard was exceptionally high we have decided to award everyone who entered a packet of Tunnocks Tea Cakes. Hopefully they’ll travel as they’ll be going as far as California!

Below are the entries for you to peruse at your pleasure. After a lot of deliberating we have decided to Award first place to Amandeep (see picture above) for her excellent drawing of Halloween. As you are probably aware, we at Tuckshop are big fans of anyone who puts pen to paper so well done!

We would also like to Thank Tunnocks for supplying us with the delicious Tea Cakes!

Even though Halloween is well and truly over, you should also check out our Halloween show as the records played are pretty sweet!

Tramp Tales is out now!

2010-10-01T04:07:00.000-07:00

New show featuring the likes of Animal Train, Knight School, Diamond Nights, Dear Winesburg and Plok! We even have some Northen Soul so tune in right now!

Dear Dear Winesburg; Suitable for young and old.

2010-09-22T12:09:00.001-07:00

Although it's been out for quite a while now, One of the most played albums of 2010 at the Tuckshop Community Radio HQ has been the beautifully recorded debut album from Dear Winesburg. For those of you that have tuned into the rather erratic shows this year (2011 will be more consistent - and that's a promise) you should already be quite familiar with this fantastic folk outfit. A finely assembled group of acoustic whippersnappers who consistently pick, strum and tap their way merrily together creating songs that are both melodic and haunting.

Not only have they kept my head nodding along for the most part of this year but has, it seems, also struck a chord with my first nephew Alexander who at the ripe age of 9 weeks spent a very miserable afternoon crying in my living room (life is obviously hard at that age). Desperately trying to calm him down I out of frustration hit the play button on my stereo where Dear Winesburg had been happily living. There is now no doubting that Alexander probably possesses a keen ear because after the beautifully brief introduction to this album his crying had almost completely stopped, in fact by the time we had got halfway through Dark Water pt I & II I do believe I saw him smile for the first time and by track 4 aptly entitled "windy old weather" baby Alexander was fast asleep.

Later as he left with his parents I passed them my copy of this brilliant album and have since been told he listens to it every night, a luxury which is undoubtedly good for him, but bad for me as I can no longer listen to Dear Winesburg.

To get your hands on the delicious debut album by Dear Winesburg you should visit them on myspace here or join them on facebook. You can also listen to the likes of them and other folky wonders (as well as some heavier stuff) at Tuckshop Community Radio.

The Hornblower brothers blow their last Trumpet?

2010-08-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

It's such a shame that the Hornblower brothers have decided to take an extended sabbatical and pursue new interests. They were without a doubt one of Tuckshop Community Radio's favourite bands, having been with us from the very beginning. Along with getting them to play at one of the Club Ugly's last year, We were also fortunate to record one of the early living room sessions with them. Recorded in a bedroom overlooking Brighton Pier, they entertained The Tuckshop faithful with not only their wonderful strummings but also a finely picked playlist.

It is therefore with a heavy heart that in celebration of The Hornblower Brothers we have re-posted the original session so they can live long in not only our memories but also our ipods.....(just click on the photo above)

Bye Bye The Hornblower brothers, we will miss you

xxx

Uphill Cycle Madness

2010-08-30T08:30:00.001-07:00

At Tuckshop, we are always keen to see some real battles and to be honest they don't come much harder than trying to cycle up Swains Lane. A steep hill in North London that is located somewhere between Kentish Town and Highgate Village (those in the knowledge can tell you that It actually creeps up the side of the infamous Highgate Cemetry, permanent home of of the grandaddy of socialism Karl Marx)

Rather predictably for an event organised during the summer month of July , the rain also decided to participate, however the weather didn't seem to to affect the attendance as locals gave witness to lots of lycra and thunderous thighs.

Cycling teams competed, a few nutters attempted the steep climb on a single speed (in fact someone actually broke their chain!) and one competitor was accompanied by his four legged canine companion who kept lookout in a front basket.

The event was something to do with a company called Rollapaluza who from what I gather put on these type of challenges ,and was sponsored by the super sweet british bike company Condor who awarded the eventual winner with some of their goodies. Which in my mind were fully deserved.

Viva les Petanque at the Charles Lamb

2010-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

For a while now in the overworked Tuckshop Towers it's been assumed that the finest pub in London is indeed the Charles Lamb. Frequented on a regular basis by my better half (she works close by) I have on occasion enjoyed not only it's fine French food but also it's Bretagne Cidre, bottled Anchor Steam and it's extremely friendly staff. The Charles Lamb also displays a brilliant selection of maps and is actually responsible for me trawling charity shops to find old drawings of this fair city (I have found a wonderful map from the 1960's, soon to be framed and hung on my wall)

It was therefore, quite an easy decision to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon participating in it's annual Petanque Tournoi. An event attended by some of the finest Petanque players that the streets of North London have ever witnessed.

The accordian hummed, Marine Ices served ice cream and locals battled against each other, kicking up dust and sweating under the summer heat. It also provided me with the opportunity to develop film for the first time in nearly 12 years, which admittedly wasn't as straight forward as I remember and is reason for the odd blemish in some of the below.

More can be found at the Tuckshop Community Flickr page and if you like the sound of The Charles lamb and its tasty offerings then please visit them now and pick up yourself a veritable banquet.

We are back!!!!

2010-08-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the longest delay over the summer. It's been a crazy time, but fear not! Tuckshop Community Radio is now back on air and to get things rolling we have a belter of a new show featuring the likes of Hanoi Jane, Freak Cola, Melodica, Melody and Me and the oh so awesome aint no woman gonna make a George Jones outta me.
All you need to do is click on the image, plug in your headphones and enjoy. xx

Back to school with Everything Everything

2010-07-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

With a small army of cameras, microphones and human bodies, the Tuckshop Community team ventured to a super-modern seconadry school in North London, accompanied by the gleefully engaging Everything Everything. Before setting up in one of the school's cavernous art rooms, the band showed us their mini-but-state-of-the-art-tour bus (think a sort of sexy four wheeled empty pimped-up sandwich packet holder, complete with its own very unique sealed-in band musk).

Once they were nestled in among the empty paint pots, questionable GCSE art work and a sign that ominously declared ‘All A2 work not collected this week WILL be thrown away', they were utterly brilliant. Though the band are can in no way be described as ‘acoustic’, they rose to (and exceeded) the challenge. Singing pitch perfect despite the drums bouncing off the walls, they kept time like a metronome. Stripped of nearly all the electrics, the songs remain both melodically and harmonically impressive, as well as having a sense of real craft in the swell and ebb of the arrangements.

EVERYTHING EVERYTHING - Schoolin' from Tuckshop Community on Vimeo.

The session flashed past and after a couple of blasts of previous singles Schoolin', Photoshop Handsome and Suffragette, Suffragette, the band darted back up North (Manchester), preparing for a summer of heavy touring and the launch of their debut album. We thank them again for taking the time and effort to stop by and play for us.

See the other videos here or more photos here

Thanks to Didi Mae and Ayeshah Zolgadr for the photos.

ditch the drums part 2 = a pretty good sequel

2010-05-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

So can you believe that last week played host to the second ditch the drums down at The Hideaway? It seems only yesterday that I was sweating over the idea of putting on a new night, but it's fair to say that so far so good....though that is easy say when yo have the likes of Dear Winesburg, Tom Phonetic and Eddie Halliday happy to put on an evenings entertainment for you.

Tom Phonetic played his heart through an electrifying set - forget first gig jitters as he belted tunes out of his 6 strings faster than a new kitchen for Samantha Cameron at no 10. Expect plenty of Tom Phonetic mania to take hold of Tuckshop Community Radio this summer.

Second up was the always impressive Eddie Halliday who was taking a break out from his heavy recording sessions with post rock band Wayter. A more stripped down version of his lo-fi folky pop than we normally see, however it was stripped down lo-fi folky pop of the highest order so everyone was pretty happy.

Words can't really describe how fantastic Dear Winesburg are, one american attendee on the night said to me "this band are so totally fresh - I'm like so excited" and quite frankly I think everyone who was down to witness their set will all agree with that perfectly expressed sentence. Things are looking good for Dear Winesburg, plenty of plays on Radio 6, a cracking new album and a load more new fans for ditch the drums. Tuckshop have spent quite a bit if time with them this year but I'm not to sure how long we'll have this luxury as plenty of new suitors are now knocking on their door.

More info can be found on the usual Facebook and Myspace sites......

Dear Winesburg footage filmed in the freezing cold

2010-05-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

THE WOODS - Dear Winesburg - Dark Water III + IV from Jamie Williams on Vimeo.

So finally the Tuckshop Community team have some footage to show of us filming Chris from Dear Winesburg in Sub-Zero temperatures on Hampstead Heath way back in January. I remember it being incredibly cold to shoot, but now looking at the footage, I realise it was certainly worth the potential frost bite.

Phonetically speaking with Tom Phonetic

2010-05-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

Tom Phonetic will be opening proceedings at ditch the drums on Thursday May 22nd. A modern gentleman known for perfectly crafted anti pop recordings, Mr Phonetic kindly gave us a few minutes of his time to talk men with ferrets and healthy breakfasts..

Hello Tom Phonetic, if you were running for Parliament what would your manifesto be?
Free Prozac for London bus drivers, free i-tunes (with artists somehow still getting paid?!!), abolition of the tory party.

Who do you think is going to win the world cup?
It would feel bizarre to go into a summer football tournament without a completely misplaced sense of optimism, so....England of course! (Spain).

What do you think this years must have accessory is for every young man?
I saw a man walking a ferret the other day. It could catch on....

What was the funniest thing to happen to you today?
My girlfriend having to get up at 3 am to catch a flight while I happily snoozed away.

Are you looking forward to playing at ditch the drums?
Most definitely, although it's my first solo gig, so come down and see a man on the edge!

Health specialists believes that every day should start with a healthy breakfast, what do you start your day with?
I actually started today with a healthy bowl of muesli. I'm trying to get in shape for Ditch the Drums!

What three bands do you think everyone should listen to right now?
The Bonfire band, Fever Ray, Motley Crue

Where are you from originally and what is the local landmark?
I'm from south-east London, so I guess it would have to be the Crystal Palace Tower or the giant, bird shit covered cat, that sits atop the Catford centre.

Where can we find you and what are the plans for Tom Phonetic in the future?
You can find me at www.myspace.com/tomphonetic, and you can also on twitter. In terms of the future, I'm planning a shed load of gigs over the summer and looking forward to working on some new material and maybe putting an e.p. out. Watch this space.

If you fancy coming to see Tom play at ditch the drums, please come down to The Hideaway on Thursday May 22nd. For more information, please visit us on facebook here.

Jurassic answers from Last Dinosaur

2010-05-06T05:30:00.000-07:00

If you've never heard Last Dinosaur before then you are all in for a real treat as their debut album Hooray! for Happiness has been busy receiving rave reviews from all ends of the music media spectrum since it was released last month. Having been sent a copy of their hard work, Tuckshop can honestly say that Hooray! for Happiness is one killer record, in fact it's sharper than a set of gnashers pulled from the mouth of any T-Rex.

Below they talk dinosaurs (obviously), about recording their record and their love of 90's R&B

Ok last dinosaur, lets get the obvious questions out of the way, do you know what was the last dinosaur to survive?
Jamie: Some people say the Komodo dragon is technically a dinosaur.. but i'm going to go with Parkinson.
Luke: Denver. Easy

Would you like to introduce yourselves?
Jamie: We're two 20-somethings from Essex who mess around with a multi-track recorder past bed time.
Luke: Hello, i'm the taller one

What is your favourite dinosaur?
Luke: The big one that cant see you when you're not moving or so Jurassic Park would have you believe
Jamie: Dinosaurs are like ice cream. There's nothing quite like a cold one on a hot day.

Have you ever visited the British Museum?
Luke: Why yes we have. We also have evidence of this event.

So your rather excellent album has just been released, have you enjoyed the whole process, what were the high/low points of putting an album out?
Jamie: I love recording and experimenting and it's really great when people are into what you've created. The worst thing about releasing an album is finally putting something you've worked on for years out there. Up until then it's yours but as soon as you left go of it you'll never look at it in the same way again.

Where can we buy this great album and where can one find you on the internet?
Jamie: Hooray! for Happiness is available to buy from Rough Trade, shops and online as well as digitally from iTunes, Amazon, Play and all those places and you can find us at myspace.com/thelastdinosauruk.

What is your favourite 90’s r&b record?
Jamie: It's a four way cross between You Make Me Wanna by Usher, How Deep Is Your Love For Me by Dru Hill, No Diggity by Blackstreet and an En Vogue song I can't remember the name of.
Luke: Raphael Saadiq ft Q-Tip - Get Involved

I’ve been told that one of the torture techniques of the us military is to chain one to the floor and play really loud repetitive music until one confesses. If you were kidnapped for withholding important information what record would bring you close to surrendering?

Jamie: The idea of being forced to listen to the T-Mobile advert that plays before some programmes on e4 for anything longer than 20 seconds makes me want to be sick into my own trousers.
Luke: Cartoons - Witch Doctor

Are there any other bands you think we should have a listen to and what are your prediction for this years world cup?
Jamie: Definitely check out Halla Norðfjörð (myspace.com/hallaboa), Jonathan Havens (myspace.com/jonnyhavensmusic), Bright Spark Destroyer (myspace.com/brightsparkdestroyer) and Jess Bryant (myspace.com/jkcbryant), as well as..
Luke: Kidsaredead, Inlets, LOVE SICK. All great bands.

South America has great history on African soil but England are the best so i would have to say Spain.

debut delirium for ditch the drums

2010-05-06T05:29:00.001-07:00

So, I totally appreciate that It's been a while in getting anything up but for those of you that were unable to make it the first ditch the drums at the Hideaway will know it was a real beauty. It admittedly did get off to a slightly slow start but once Dominic Weeks opened proceedings the punters started to take the slightly sinister steps down into the basement of the Hideaway.

Joe innes proved to be the perfect middle man, providing us with his own take on English anti folk, happily conversing with the ditch the drums audience and telling stories over the backdrop of his guitar on every day life and observations. Be sure to check him out at www.myspace.com/joeinnes and expect him to be playing at a venue hopefully near you all.

The night was perfectly capped off by Tom Mansi and the Ice Breakers who very kindly took time out of their hectic rehearsel schedule (upcoming UK tour to promote new album). Tom plucked his double bass, whilst the drums tapped away, and the guitar and keyboard played the lazy blues. Having just finished their new album which was recorded with Steven Krakovic, the Ice Breakers played a selection of new and old material keeping their admirers sweet and soulful well into the night.

Fore more information about our night ditch the drums you can join us on facebook and also myspace.

Here also are some more pics of the evening....

Jovial chit chat with Joe Innes

2010-04-20T02:06:00.000-07:00

Joe Innes will be playing at ditch the drums this Thursday. An extremely talented man who not only agreed to come down and play for us, but has also kindly answered a few of our questions so we can all get to know him a little better....

So Joe Innes, if you could describe yourself as a title to a Hollywood
Blockbuster, what would it be?
How To Lose Friends And Alienate People.

What are you planning to eat for your next meal?
Some pizza, it's a plain cheese from tescos but we put some of our own
sun dried tomato and chorizo sausage on it, so we feel like we're
actually involved in the cooking process.

Are you interested in the election? do you think that Mr Cameron wears
speedos when he visits the local baths to do a few lengths?
Well, I'm definitely not voting tory but now I have an image of David
Cameron, in speedos, with a camel tail... I think that should be the
Labour campaign, it'd put anyone off, but ANY politician with that in
mind is not pretty. In fact speedos are what's wrong here, let's get
rid of them.

What was the last album that you listened to?
Probably a Bruce Springsteen Live collection, not too cool huh? Neither am I.

Have you ever had an encounter with a wild animal? (I once came face to
flipper with a seal whilst surfing in Cornwall)
A cat once scratched me on the walk home from school... I'm not really
an animal person, I wouldn't want to impose myself on anything that
couldn't tell me to bugger off.

Are there any artists you think we should check out?
Guided By Voices are well good, they're my favourite band not many
people have heard of. Tristram is a current London folk guy, he's
great, like Nick Drake but less miserable (I hope). I also like the
new album from Noah and the Whale, but so does the rest of the world.

if you were told that you no longer could make music and you had to reinvent
yourself as a high street chain, what would you be called and what would you
sell?
Jomics, It'd be a comic shop... but because my name is Joe it'd be
called Jomics, gettit? I like comics.

Who do you think is going to win the World Cup?
Some guys in shorts with haircuts.

Where can we find you and your music?
I move about a lot of the time, but my music can be found at
www.myspace.com/joeinnes

If you like the sound of Joe Innes then you can come and see him play along with Dominic Weeks and Tom Mansi and the Icebreakers at The Hideaway for the astounding fee of £3.00.

Introducing ditch the drums - our new night!

2010-04-09T05:43:00.001-07:00

Yes It has been a few weeks since we last posted, but one of the reasons for this is our lack of time as we've been organising this wonderful new night called ditch the drums

Please come down to The Hideaway in Tufnell Park on the 22nd of April as not only are we show casing the fine talents of Tom Manssi and the ice breakers, Joe Innes and Dominic Weeks, but The Hideaway cooks some pretty tasty pizzas and stocks an incredible selection of beers!

As Arnie once said "see you at the party Richter".

Interview wiith Danielle Earle - founder of PL Entertainment

2010-03-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

Danielle Earle founded her company PL Entertainment a few years ago amongst the high buildings and hustle and bustle of New York. This was without a doubt an incredibly wise move as she's since been involved in plenty of interesting projects such as her "On the scene" series: showcasing the work of many different independent music artists.

More recently she's directed her first film "Where the road may lead us" which you can all watch below! But first why not read her answers to a few questions we fired over to her.......

So Danielle, I guess you’ve been pretty busy having just made your film, how was the experience for you?
As you know, Where The Road May Lead Us was our first film for PL Entertainment. I was completely scared to death, before the production process, but I said to myself, I need to make this film, because the story was on my mind for several years. I thought to myself, when something is inside you that’s bursting the get out, you have to go for it.
At first it was nerveracking, gathering all of the pieces together to make the film complete.
But, overall it was an amazing expereince to be surrounded by such talented filmmakers. Hai-Tao Wu, Yann Shan Tsai. An incredible editor based in New York named Holly Buechel, who did an outstanding job with pulling my story together.

Script supervisors, Lorena Marques and Lucy Morales did a fantastic job with keeping me hoperventalating throughout the entire production.

Lastly, sound person Abdallah Nihrane, who totally created such a unique atmosphere in terms of sound and setup. Actors Melanie Burstin and Evan Baker were a blessing. They really did an outstanding job.
The film wouldn't have been complete without all of them.

Do you have any more potential films in the pipeline?

Yes! I’m completely, film crazy now. We are producing another film in my hometown in Oakland, New Jersey called License and Registration, with an amazing writer Stephanie Lazorchak from San Francisco, California (featuring music by a UK band called Broadcast 2000).

You guys certainly seem to be keeping busy, is there anything else that we should check out?

Definitely stay tuned for a music video that I directed for my long time pal, Justin Levinson, called “Hopelessness,” off of his latest album Predeterminded Fate. I wish him well. He’s doing so many amazing things this Summer.

Where can we find you?

Probably on the NY Subwayw 24/7. I’m just kidding, I’m usually everywhere, but I tend to go on tumblr lately. Note to the audience - feel to ask us questions about any of the artists featured on our show.

We can be reached anytime at PLE227@yahoo.com. If you are an unsigned artist, that would like to be on our web series, On The Scene, send us your tunes.

When I was in NYC last, I became addicted to Boyles Cherry Soda, do you know about this stuff?

Oh my god, I love Boyles Cherry Soda! Whenever your in a deli especially in New York, it's probably the only place in the world were you can get an entire meal and a soda for less than 4 bucks.
Growing up I learned to live without sometimes. Even with the series I’m completely the same way. I still eat gyros on occasion and I highly recommend it to any person that visit’s New York for the first time.

Any bands you think we should have a listen to?

I've become totally addicted to Miracles of Modern Science, which is a wonderful indie band from New York. I really love their sound.

Also, definitely check out The Lower 48, and Hailey Wojcik and her Imaginary Friends, they are incredible.

and finally, can you leaves us with any words of wisdom?

My only advice would be this…
”Go for it.”

There were many times were I came across so many people that didn’t believe in my ability as an artist, or as a director which is the same experience that ever musician or director has to face in life, but you have to believe in yourself and despite the hard times you may face, their will be a light at the end of the tunnel.

Believe me, there were times were I felt like giving up, but I said to myself, giving up is the easy part, and hanging in there it is the challenge. It’s all apart of the journey and the crosswords we face that will lead us to our destination or in this case, our dreams.

To experience more of PL Entertainments offerings please visit their website and if you can't wait, then here is a little taster.....

The first Tuckshop Gladstone session

2010-03-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

Crikey, it's already turning out to be a busy week, but here are a few pictures from our first session at The Gladstone with the oh so charming Tom Mansi and his ultra cool ice breakers. These recordings will be quite different in style from the living room, expect warm colours and plenty of grainy footage. Having never been to The Gladstone before, I can confirm that it's a proper Laaaandan boozer worth visiting next time your in Borough. Good food and proper ales (they even serve Tinners from the homeland!) with a warm friendly atmosphere, I have no doubt that it will serve the new expansion of the Tuckshop Community well.

Big thanks to Tom Mansi and the Ice Breakers, Josh and Tom on camera and the good chaps at The Gladstone..

Hopped Up - Images from the Hot Rod Scene

2010-03-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

I actually came across this exhibition by chance, and what luck, as these are absolutely wonderful pictures taken of the Hot Rod movement. Originally I thought they were from right back in the day, until I took notice of the dates and realised these have been documenting the current Hot Rod movement that is existing mainly in towns and cities across Europe. The whole exhibition is really worth checking out at the Proud Gallery, but if you can’t take a trip down, you should pester the oh so excellent photographer David Biene and see if you can convince him to do a second run of his book Hopped Up as the first one sold out faster than the wave of a chequered flag.

For more info and insights please visit www.hopped-up.com

Sunshine and songs with 6 day riot

2010-03-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

The most recent living room session has once again flown by, this time soaring to the dizzy heights, having managed to persuade the fine talents of 6 day riot (admittedly minus a few members). Tamara and her merry troop turned up on time and happily plucked their way through several numbers playing guitar, violin and cheese grater. Not content with just the three excellent ensembles, we somehow managed to persuade them to take a short walk into one of the more picturesque areas of Kentish Town, where they strummed and sang sweetly into the spring air. Passers by slowed down and watched, even a giant lorry came to a halt and all the neighbours joined us out on the street, applauding the band once they had finished.

hed bod leg - a community art project

2010-03-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

Dion Star is one of those incredibly talented individuals who I had the pleasure of meeting in my teens. Our meetings now are sadly pretty infrequent, however from time to time I always hear about the latest interesting project that he’s embarking on. He’s been involved in some excellent art and music projects over the years which have been enjoyed by many people. To be honest, his latest creation hed bod leg is an absolute beauty and is calling upon the world’s finest visionaries (i.e. you and me) to draw either a head, a body or a leg to help create some pretty interesting and unique looking creatures. The Tuckshop Community Radio Massive likes nothing more than people collectively joining together to create something cool, so hed bed leg really is a beautiful example of the flourishing online community.

To take part in hed bod leg and also see more of Dion Stars creative talents and designs, visit his website www.dionstar.co.uk

Stacie Willoughby has signed, sealed and delivered!

2010-02-27T10:50:00.000-08:00

Cast your mind back 12 months or so and you might possibly remember me talking about this amazing poster I had spotted whilst driving along the West Coast of California. Due to the powers of the internet I later find that this artist is no other than Stacie Willoughby, an artist who resides in the fair coastal town of Santa Cruz. A few emails later – including an interview here on the blog (way back in the spring) and we’re kind of internet friends, though I still was yet to get my hands on some of her work.

This has quickly changed however as earlier today when coming in from the London cold I notice a small envelope addressed to me sitting on my Hallway floor. Carefully opening the intriguing packet, I notice that it’s from California – better still it’s from Stacie Willoughby! Who has taken the time out to delicately fold into a small envelope a copy of her 2010 calendar! I literally can’t quite believe my luck at this precise moment in time. Not only am I happy to have my own Willoughby piece, but the sheer fact this has been sent from the Sunshine state and prompted purely through the amazing world that is the internet.

Those of you that know my drawing skills will realise that I can’t repay this gift, unless she fancies a picture of a Crab in a bow tie, but at the very least I can tell you all what an excellent artist she is and also what we would refer to in England as a “right bobby dazzler”

Please go and check out the Art of Stacie Willoughby and tell of your friends.

Aunt Mays Pasty = proper job and proper good signage

2010-02-24T13:39:00.001-08:00

It seems that Cornwall is on my mind a lot at the moment, hardly surprising when one finds slick signs like the one outside Aunty Mays Pasty shop in Newlyn. Bold and bright it features a Pirate tucking into what I can only assume is one of Aunt Mays finest. Awesome art work for an awesome pasty shop. If you're ever in Newlyn, you know where to go for lunch.

Skirt Versus Shirt

2010-02-24T13:27:00.000-08:00

Quite randomly, I was approached a while ago asking if I would contribute to a fashion blog called Skirt Versus Shirt. It aims to report on items of fashion from both a male and female perspective (hence the title I guess) I wouldn’t necessarily say that the World of Tuckshop is a fashionable one, but I loathe to turn down any new opportunity that comes my way so naturally I accepted the challenge. If you are indeed a young man in his late twenties/early thirties who just doesn’t feel right when either shopping in M&S or wearing a bright logo emblazoned t-shirt, then this might just be the place for you, In fact, you may just like the piece I’ve just done on Barbour jackets so go and check it out...

You can also join the Skirt Versus Shirt revolution on facebook

Storms a gathering

2010-02-24T11:37:00.000-08:00

I’ve literally just got back from a few days in the pirate town of Penzance. The town where I spent many of my formative years. It's located at the far tip of West Penwith which is an incredibly wild and rugged coastline, full of equally wild and rugged characters and totally different to my new found home of Kentish Town in North West London. During my short visit, I had the pleasure of walking along Sennen beach, perhaps one of the finest stretches of golden sands that you are ever likely to come across. Sadly this mental storm broke out, which resulted in a quick return to the indoors, however I did manage to take this photo which I was quite happy about.

The world of Tuckshop TV and some really cool videos

2010-02-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well Finally I have some Tuckshop Community Television footage for you all to enjoy, though it really is only the smallest of sneaky peeks. Those of you who are our friends on facebook have probably seen this already, however for those of you who read the blog I'll probably be releasing a few more snippets over the next week or so.

First up is the lovely Melodica, melody and me teaching our friend Tobias how to play the melodica. This was taken on my balcony with the added danger of hanging a cameraman of some scaffolding. Short but sweet....it's a tuckshop treat!

It also seems that many of our friends have been using thier creative talents in more ways than one, Forget MTV or even TMF, just watch these videos and enjoy the next 20 minutes or so..

Freak Out by the Cobalt Cranes
A bad boy of a video no less with a rather glamorous set or two, Cobalt Cranes are Technicolor genuises

Cobalt Cranes "Freak Out" from COBALT CRANES on Vimeo.

Ties by The Momeraths
Another of our favourite bands, The Momeraths put thier wondeful summery pop into a wonderful summery video. Twee English countryside and cake - what's not to like?

Momeraths: Ties from Chris Newcombe on Vimeo.

The Robbery by The Anti Job
Hip lo-fi undergraduates from NYC produce hip lo-fi video - masterful simplicity

The Robbery Music Video from Beyond the Infinite on Vimeo.

Ears to the ground by Ice Black Birds
Ears to the ground is one thing but eyes on this fantastic video is another.

Ice Black Birds 'Ears To The Ground' from Jessica Stead on Vimeo.

Creature by Tijuana Panthers
Man wakes up with an eye on his neck! it's actually quite common.

Tijuana Panthers - Creature from Aaron McFarland on Vimeo.

Mamoun's make fine falafel.

2010-02-01T07:02:00.001-08:00

I always love stumbling across a good logo or home made sign and this was no different whilst on a recent visit to New York. Having a few friends based in Greenwich village (The Eastman Brothers), I was taken out on a Pizza crawl where we would take in a local slice at a different pizzeria after every beer drank. After experiencing several slices from the likes of Ray’s, John’s and Joe’s I was at the end, taken for some local falafal at a place known as Mamoun’s. Obviously a popular place with the locals, I squeezed through the narrow door and waited my turn in line to order. It has to be said that these delicately flavoured mouth watering balls of chick peas and herbs were the tastiest thing I had eaten all day. Each bite filled me with a joyous explosion of flavour and mouth watering excitement. Wanting to remember this moment and fine stablishment for another visit, I picked up one of their cards which filled me with further delight! Tastefully embossed and with a wonderful picture of who I can only assume is Mamoun himself, it has to be one of the best logo'sI've seen in a while. Admiring this fine artwork, I carefully placed it into my wallet as a souvenir from my visit and as a reminder to return later in the week.

Having now been back in England for a few months, I admittedly had temporarily forgotten about this wonderful experience until the other week when during one if my rather rare viewings of US hit series Gossip Girl, I hear one of the fresh faced yuppie socialites cry “Let’s go to Mamoun's for falafel” Eagerly opening my wallet I find the very Card, bringing back very fond memories.

Go and eat at Mammoun's now, it was still delicious on the second visit and by far one of my favourite places visited on that trip.

Daggering - from the dance halls of Jamaica to a wedding dance floor near you

2010-02-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

I was completely unaware of daggering until last week when my colleague Gareth introduced me to the phenomenon. I can’t believe I’ve been in the dark ages for so long. Perhaps it’s my middle class heritage or that I’m showing my age. But Daggering really is quite a movement and a fairly tame example can be found whilst watching this wonderful video by Major Lazer.

Pon De Floor featuring Afro Jack & VYBZ Cartel from Mad Decent on Vimeo.

Andreas is super sharp and slippery like a fish

2010-01-28T08:21:00.000-08:00

Being involved with Tuckshop Community Radio has meant that I am continuously being introduced to a wide variety of interesting and colourful characters. Andreas Lederer is one of those such people and he kindly came down armed with his camera and multiple lenses at the last Living Room Session (see the fish eye images). Now, way back in the mid 90’s, DJ Hype along with his Ganja Krew once sang about a “Super Sharp Shooter” and I wonder if they possibly were singing about this fine chap. Super precise and super sharp, his photo’s make my usual Tuckshop offerings look fairly scrambled. They are indeed worth having a perusal so if you want to see more go check out his photo page here.

Double Whammy living Room session = much Tea

2010-01-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

It was a new test for the Living room session crew this weekend as we attempted to film not one but two bands! To achieve this we had to be pretty slick and things were slightly hampered when Jamie arrived two hours late having been evacuated from his train somewhere outside of London. However when you are in the lucky position to be working with two wonderful bands and an amazingly tight team, a few hours lost is never a problem.

The Ruderallis started the procedures with their wonderfully acoustic versions of some of their own records. Harmonies hung in the air and the base bounced along to a steady rhythm. Once finished we quickly shipped them into the kitchen (via the bathroom) and began recording with the Fantastic Dear Winesburg. We’ve actually been hanging out with Chris from the band quite a lot recently, but this time he was fully armed with the whole team who happily played with delicious precision, meaning we didn’t go too late into the night.

Be sure to check both these acts out and for more pictures come and join us on Facebook.

Enjoy Wolf Beer

2010-01-23T01:28:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across this local ale whist in the fair county of Suffolk. Like many people,I'm quite partial to a good logo that incorporates a Wolf and I thought that this was a fine example. Hassle your Landlord to stock Wolf Beer now

Singing in the Snow

2010-01-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

It was on Wednesday last Week that I got a call From Jamie (head Cameraman and all round filming genius for The Tuckshop Living Room) saying that we should make the most of the rare Snow in England and try and record a session on Hampstead Heath. Not a bad idea I thought and It wasn’t long before I had managed to coax the talents of super fresh folk act Dear Winesburg. Due to poor travel options and cold, adverse weather conditions various members pulled out, however the man they call Chris stayed true to his word and battled through the harsh weather to play a couple of tracks with his complete one man band ensemble.
To say it was freezing was an understatement and I think it was a fair few hours before Chris could feel his fingertips again, let alone play the guitar. Despite, mother nature trying her best to make things difficult (the guitars would detune within seconds), the final performance sounded wonderful and warmed the souls of many a passerby. Trekking across a Parliament Hill covered in Ice, carrying a kick drum and a hi-hat is now actually up there with some of my greatest achievements and I still think that the kick drum would have won any race if used to slide down the icy slope.

Thanks again to the camera guys and even more to Chris who I sincerely hope doesn’t have frost bite.

A brief end of year round up

2010-01-11T13:15:00.001-08:00

Well, It has been a really long time since we last posted, in fact it’s been a long time since we’ve put anything up out there. This has mainly been caused by the fact that due to the world of Tuckshop Community Radio growing faster than the big kid at school facial hair, I’ve been unable to quite frankly find the time. However 2010 is now upon us and with a new show under our belt, I thought now was the perfect time to get back on track, but first here is a quick round up of what Tuckshop Community Radio was up to in the last few months of the year.

Living Room Sessions

Firstly, we managed to film another living room session (look out for the website soon) This afternoon was spent with the lovely Stars of Sunday League, who provided us with good manners and silky skills. Forget your beer bellied defenders, these guys sound slicker than a Ronaldo dribble laced in Vaseline. Check them out and for more pics visit us on Facebook and myspace.

The last Club Ugly of the year was an absolute Belter. Stages of Dan provided the happy crowd with the fruits of their EP Launch, so be sure to pick up a copy. The place was literally jammed to the max, which was helped by the Opening acts of Dear Winesburg (who coincidently have since been played on Radio 6) and Brighton based band The Ruderallis. Both these acts will at some point be recording a session for us in the Living Room so watch this space. For more pics of this tremendous evening, please check us out again in Facebook and Myspace.

Finally, Tuckshop Community Radio did actually go to New York, but unfortunately due to bad technological communications and chronic back pain no sessions were recorded, however I did have this amazing Soda which is well worth drinking if you ever visit the States and I also found myself in Times Square on Halloween which provided me with some interesting pics.

Peg Leg Love EP - Out Now

2009-10-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

The latest EP to arrive through our digital letter box is yet another representative from the streets of Los Angeles. Peg Leg love's 4 track far far away E.P is a mixture of jangly surf riffs with head nodding bass and driving drums, It's the kind of sound that reminds me being shaken about by a slightly mischevious wave, it takes you by surprise, leaving you slightly disorientated, but also with an ecstatic adrenaline rush that immediately gets you duck diving under the next incoming set. Expect plenty more from Peg Leg Love and go get yourself a copy of that EP right now.

Signs of the times part 1

2009-10-26T11:34:00.000-07:00

I saw this excellent drawing at an organic bakery in Oslo last year. It was near Christmas time and according to my native Norwegian friend Benedikte, means something like "eating bread gives you strong teeth". Something you're not going to doubt when faced with that smile.

Totally random James Bond Drawings

2009-10-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't say I was a massive fan of the James Bond Films. I've yet to see either of the two latest offerings, however growing up in England as a boy it was impossible not to escape the smooth moves of Sean Connery or the charismatic capers of Roger Moore. Whilst patientely waiting for a train late on a Saturday night at a desolate country station in Dorset (Sherbourne to be exact) I noticed these amazing Bond pictures. Painted straight onto wood, they were mounted along the side of the platform. I have no idea who the artist is but thought they were worth sharing. My particular favourite is Goldfinger.

William the Conkerer

2009-10-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

The Hampstead Heath annual conker championships consisted yet again of a most deadly, unsociable tribe. As the finest Conker players from all of the lands congregated by the Hampstead Heath bandstand, ready to pick battles with their arch nemesis . Players with a wide range of styles, backgrounds and age groups, fought it out in a sudden death affair. The stakes were high and the atmosphere was intense. Bloodied knuckles withstood every crack and smack thrown at them, as conkers danced wildly on the ends of old shoe laces. Soon the floor was littered with the organic matter of shattered conker skins as many a warrior met their peril.

For those of you that missed it, training for next years event has already started, below are the frightening pictures of some of this years contenders...

Filmed Living Room Session with Melodica, Melody and Me

2009-10-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

The second recording of the soon to be aired "Living Room" took part last weekend at The Tuckshop HQ. It was yet again another rip roarer of a day and due to the size of the band took a little longer than originally thought. Melodica, Melody and me entertained us all with the usual laid back panache that we've all come accustomed to, practicing on my very cramped balcony beforehand their melodies drifted down my terrace, prompting quite a few neighbours to sit out in their own balconies enjoying the Autumnal sunshine and listen with a cup of tea in hand.

Yet again everyone worked liked trojans to get everything perfect and we were all rewarded later in the day with a home made cream tea made by my good hands (sadly the scones didn't rise, but the home made jam was pretty tasty).

It'll of course all be online for you to view in January, but in the mean time here are a few pics and if you want to see more then visit us on Facebook here and myspace here...

Awesome Autumnal Club Ugly

2009-10-12T13:48:00.001-07:00

Those of you that made it to the last Club Ugly are probably wondering why it has taken me so long to get this post up. It was yet again an absolute blinder and everyone at Club Ugly are incredibly grateful for the bands and the good honest punters that came down to say hello.

Admittedly things were a little delayed. The incredibly laid back Jake Beattie ,who pulled out all the stops by providing drums at the last minute, nearly forgot his drummer, however once on stage the crowd cheered and whooped which in all honesty set the precedent for the whole evening.

Kinzli and the Killowatts kept their large score of fans and other revellers very happy with a wonderful set, a fine band bridging the gap between Jake and the Stars of Sunday League in a wonderfully harmonious fashion, a heady mix of many different genre's resulting in a stupendous set.

As to be expected, Stars of Sunday League left behind any notions of hard tackling full backs catching a fag at half time and delivered a silky set of skills more familiar with the company at the camp nou than the local park. Having literally got back from performing at the end of the road festival, we were all mesmerised by their scintillating performance with melodies smoother than any Mourinho press conference.

Thanks also to Jarred whose Derren Brown style mind tricks kept us all guessing, Here are a few more pics

More can be viewed on both Myspace and Facebook.

A big brown bag of propaganda from Philly

2009-09-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

When I received this excellent bag of cd's from Philadelphia the other day, I was impressed for several reasons. Not only were both the E.P's from Animal Train and Piss boys of an excellent standard, but also the rather cool Punk compilation Brown Bag Propaganda is full of totally raw, unhinged punk music. Music so sharp it is likely to slice of the top of any self standing mohican with it's 26 tracks of excellent loud punkage, courtesy of bands from all around the world. If that wasn't enough to get you excited, it also arrived in its own brown paper bag.

It also wins kudos for holding the record of distance traveled, as it has flown halfway across the world to arrive in our safe hands.

Go check it out now.....Brown Bag Propaganda

and all men shall hear the Wolf People....

2009-09-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

It's probably fair to say that Wolf People have been one of my favourite bands since the emergence of Tuckshop. They seem to endlessly produce wonderfully raucous, psychedelic records, full of howling guitars, fierce rythms and pumping flutes. Their latest single Tiny Circles continues this form and will no doubt sell out like it's predecessors. Having a few spare minutes, we were able to throw a few questions at one of their members Jack Sharp.

So Wolf people, do you actually like wolves?

Sure. Why not? It’s just a name though.

How do you feel every time there is a full moon?

Precious

I notice that the excellent artist Pete Fowler has done some work for you, is he a fan?

He likes the band and he’s played records at a few shows we’ve done. We’re big fans of his so it was a thrill for us to submit songs for the monsterism library project. That’s where that illustration comes from, there is an insert with all the artists drawn as monsterism characters.

In fact, it seems that you must have a fine selection of artistic friends as all of your ep's have been accompanied by inspiring artwork, is there anyone you think we should check out?

Joe Hollick (guitarist) does the artwork for the self released EP's. That’s his day job. They’re nice aren’t they? ( Yes, Very nice indeed)

There is a friend of ours Mark Oliver who is an incredible artist and is hopefully going to be doing some covers for us in the future. He can be found at www.dancingeye.co.uk. Him and Peter O’Dowd make these amazing magazines full of illustrations. It’s real, they’re not messing around!

What has been the strangest thing you've witnessed at a Wolf people gig?

Human pyramid.

I'm a quite a fan of the teenage werewolf genre, what is your opinion of teenage werewolves being allowed to participate in high school and even play basketball?

Haha, I wouldn’t know. We’re not teenagers and we never went to high school. Some of us never even went to school.

What was the last record you tapped your foot to?

Bumblebee by Lavern Baker. It’s a Rhythm & Blues record from 1960, I’d never heard of it until yesterday.

As a band we’ve been listening to a lot of Soft Machine, Dungen and Erkin Koray.

Where can we get a copy of your latest E.P?

We have a 7” single out that you can buy from Finders Keepers Records.

We made a few home made CD’s to sell at gigs recently but nothing official. We have just finished putting together a cut & paste collection of all our early recordings which will be our first release for Jagjaguwar Records. That’ll be out on vinyl and download in January.

We’re recording the first proper album in September and that will come out some time next year.

Wolf People can be found in various dark caves around the country playing their sweet, sweet music. You can also find them at www.myspace.com/wolfpeople

The Living Room is soon to be viewed by you!

2009-09-05T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, we've literally just finished filming the first ever Living Room session. I reckon that it'll be a couple of weeks before it's edited together, however It's going to be a beauty so keep your eyes peeled!

The Zetland Players were excellent and the new Living Room team worked as well as any fluid passing football side managed by the late great Brian Clough.Here are a few pics for you to peruse, however, we do have more technicolor wonders on Facebook and some Black and White Bad Boys on Myspace.

The Tixie licks - music made for Pirates

2009-08-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

I suppose that it's normal to have an added interest in things that go on in your home town, so it felt extra special when I received a cd in the post from a band called The Tixie Licks, a band who are based in the same very town that I spent my formative years in. Not only are they from the good old town of Penzance, home of Pirates and Pasty's but they're actually very good and their E.P is full off anti folk style goodness that would keep many a lo-fi fan happy on the Hi-fi. Expect Plenty of plays on upcoming episodes of Tuckshop Community Radio and visit them on myspace now by clicking on this sentence.

Ice Cream Van Man - this diet is no fad

2009-08-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

I've never needed much of an excuse to buy an ice cream on a sunny Saturday afternoon, so I was very happy to hear the sweet chimes of an ice cream van whilst on Hampstead Heath Yesterday. As I faced the direction of the music, I was even more excited by the sight of a small Ice Cream Van which had been entirely constructed out of cardboard! Embracing this brilliant idea, assuming that the ice cream seller had built it himself, I began to trek up Parliment hill wanting to satisfy my sweet tooth. As I navigated the steep climb, getting nearer to the van, I noticed how the ice cream glistened in the late afternoon sunshine, "these are going to be good" I thought and I stepped up a gear.

It came as complete surprise when reaching the Van that the cardboard design didn't stop at just the vehicle. Ice cream was indeed for sale, but this was the type that was made entirely from cardboard, though the disappointment didn't last long as I immediately purchased a 100% fat free, non dairy, vegan cone for the bargain of £2. It looks amazing, is without a doubt the best thing I've bought in a long long time and is now going to sit very proudly on my mantle piece.

If you would like to know more about Ice Cream Van Man and it's mastermind William Alexander, please visit his website here...

August Club Ugly - 'it aint half hot mum'

2009-08-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

Well, thanks again for those of you that popped down to the Social on the 18th. I have to say that this one was yet again a beauty. Fun was had by all as all the bands were not only excellent, but also friendly and quite happy to share various equipment.

It was a warm evening in London and the early part was spent with people preferring to enjoy a drink out on little Portland street, in fact I think there was literally no one inside during the early part of the evening. This changed however once The Welcome Committee (AKA Jamie) climbed up onto the stage armed only with his guitar and book of songs. Those that tune into Tuckshop Community Radio will be quite familiar with the melodic rumblings of this fine chap, sweet melodies and narrative lyrics blend into perfect harmony and everyone in the Social sat, stood and listened in awe.

Second on the bill were the mighty impressive So Say So, Who I must admit, I had little knowledge of, other than a quick listen on their myspace page, before I went on Holiday. This unfamiliarity didn't last long though as not only were the band thoroughly likeable, but they also hit the Social Crowd with such a full belting sound that everyone stood in amazement. We were all gripped by their roller coaster of a set and it's no wonder that this fine band have been picked to support American Indie band The Veils at the Scala in late September.

" I hope we're ok tonight" Said Jamie, the frontman of Last Dinosaur, "it's been a while since we last played", and after the superb set from So Say So, they did indeed have a lot to live up for. However, riseth the gig, riseth the band and there was nothing extinct at all about their performance. Violins played alongside guitars, the crowd nodded along and even the soundman jumped about excitedly behind them all. An album is not far on the Horizon and I think everyone who was at the gig will be looking forward to it's release.

Here are some more pics....

Superb video from You Say France and I Whist'e

2009-08-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

As soon as I heard the uber talented 'You Say France and I Whistle'. I knew that It wasn't going to take long for me to become a fan. Their music is a striking blend of perfect Scandinavian guitar indie pop and every single record that they have sent me is not only faultless in sound but also perfectly constructed . Sweden may be famous for contemporary design, but You Say France and I Whistle is the best soundtrack for any time spent lounging in a Yngve Ekstrom Lamino chair, or even any sofa for that matter.

Check out this awesome video for their record 'when lovers die', personally I've always been a fan of monkeys playing drums and men baking cakes in David Beckham shirts...infact I'm off to get my ticket to Sweden right now.

Skate Park with Sea Views

2009-08-20T12:37:00.000-07:00

I took these pics a while back when visiting the small skate park in my home town of Penzance with my mate Dan, I've always been interested in Skateboarding despite the fact that I'm pretty lame at it (I even have a false tooth in my mouth as evidence!) This Park in Penzance was somewhat of a milestone as it was the first to be built nearly 10 years ago after a lot of campaigning. I even think I helped raise some of the cash when I played in a band called the Fukkas, which is another story completely. It's nice to see that people are still using it despite an influx of skate bowls being built in the area. It was a really chilled evening and even think that earlier one of the young scally wags hanging out with us was no other than Sam Bosworth who went on to win the Amateur X Games in Los Angeles only recently! Not bad for a wee nipper born and bred on pasties. Up the Kernow revolution!

New Wolf People EP - Tiny Circles

2009-08-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about Tuckshop is that I occasionally get sent music in the post. These days, what with the digital revolution, everything is sent to me via email. (probably a good thing in all reality as I literally have piles and plies of cd's) There's actually something quite nice about receiving packages from far gone places and the excitement is always doubled with me due to my letter box being so small that a trip to the post office is always needed, thus increasing my anticipation. This week having returned form my mini break in Cornwall I picked up a promo copy of the latest Wolf People ep entitled Tiny Circles. As you'd expect it's a cracker, and if you're going to Green Man this weekend you should definitely check them out. Hopefully we'll have an interview on here with them soon, so watch this space.......

Gina Kelly and her Weather Maker Press.

2009-07-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

Gina Kelly is an outstanding artist, who literally blew me away when I first stumbled across her Beirut poster a few months back. Unfortunately at the time, it was necessary that I kept my wallet deep in my pockets, and although I realised I had missed out on a real gem (that poster unsurprisingly flew off the shelf) I did make a note to myself to keep an eye on her future offerings.

Luckily for me, I didn't have to wait too long, as soon enough her art called out to me, this time in the giuse of an exquisite Andrew Bird Poster.

Having very kindly agreed to ship the poster to me in the Uk, at a very reasonable price I didn't have too wait too long for the latest edition of my collection to arrive safely on my door step, and If that wasn't enough, she also was generous enough to answer a few questions about inspiration, music and excellent pie and burger restaurants in her neighbourhood.

Hey Gina, so how was the Pitchfork festival? in England it always rains at Festivals, did it rain there?
I love going to Pitchfork every year. Its the only festival I really come back to year after year because I'd feel a little empty if I didn't go. Chicago has two things I love that I can't get in California, fireflies and thunderstorms. If I get to experience each when I'm back in the Midwest, I have had a glorious trip. This year it did rain at Pitchfork, but there wasn't any lightening and thunder. Just a slow little drizzle...thankfully I got my fix on the first night back, a few days before the festival, while sitting around a fire at 3 am. Thunder and lightening and fireflies all at once...and ten falling asleep to the sound of rain on the rooftop. There's a little magic in all of that.

How long have you been screen printing? was there anything that inspired you about it or did you fall into it organically?

Did you ever have something enter your head as a really casual thing and then materialize really fast in front of you? That's how it happened, I have always loved gigposters and once I decided that screenprinting would work out in my then new studio space, everything just kind of started buzzing. A total stranger gifted me a whole studio's worth of professional supplies. Friends started needing things made, it all just came together. Everytime I think I'm going to put it down for a bit or try something new an interesting job pops up, or a great band gets in contact. I'm not sure what it is, but I definitely think screenprinting came to me. In return I work super hard at it, so I guess there's a middle road somewhere in there...

What was the last record you listened to?

Let's see, everyone's been throwing tons of music at me but I think if I say whole album start to finish its either Brian Eno's "Here Come the Warm Jets" or the new (not yet released) Califone album (which is really unbelievable, Tim Rutili is a genius song writer). I tend to want to listen to something that is layered and both these projects satisfy the crazy sound palette and beautiful/rocking song writing that I freak out over in music.

Where are you based and what would you recommend people visiting of they were ever in your neck of the woods?

Again I have to answer in two's...#1 is a diner in Pasadena called Pie and Burger because you really should eat them in that order (and the pies are killer, trust me, there's a very very long list) or The Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City. That must be the one true magical museum in the entire world, so you'd be sorry if you missed it...

What is your all time favourite dinner?

Shit. Do you have any idea how much I love food? There's absolutely no way I can answer this question! How do you choose between oysters or home-made baked mac and cheese or fish fry or a lamb steak? If I try to answer this I'm gonna get all stressed....

For all those people that are reading this interview and saying to themselves "I need a piece of Gina Kelly Artwork!" , where can they find you?

The best place to find me is in my print studio, but since most of you are over the pond, I guess www.weathermakerpress.com is just as good. Of course, you don't get to hang out and enjoy a tequilla shot with me, but you'll get the idea. :)

Are there any artists/musicians you think deserve more recognition?

Well, I mentioned Califone earlier, and no matter how much people love them I think that it'll never be enough for me. I think Roomsound is a "perfect" album, and all the other albums that follow just grow from there. I They just do what they do so well and so naturally, I am always surprised when people say they love Wilco for example, but then they don't know Califone. Hopefully more of you will after reading this!

and finally, do you have any words of wisdom that you would like to leave us with?
Get out of your own way...i'm telling myself this everyday right now. I bet we could all do that just a little bit more in some respect.

If you do fancy spending some time in the world of Gina Kelly, please visit her website www.weathermakerpress.com.

Crispy Cream eggs, Tartan and other stories with Lewis Irvine

2009-07-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

When you hear Lewis Irvine for the first time, it is fairly easy to be drawn into his unique world of strummed guitars and husky vocals. I can't describe what it sounds like, perhaps a blend of celtic anti-folk mixed with both genuine sincerity and humour, however what I can tell you is that his records are very good and will keep you pressing repeat over and over again.

Having become a big fan of his work , I was delighted that he was able to answer a few questions, answers which cover all important topics, such as fashion, men in skirts, musical recommendations and Scotland's insatiable appetite for deep frying Cadburys products.

Please take time out to read these questions whilst listening to the undeniably talented Lewis Irvine.

Hello Mr Irvine, what have you just been doing?

To be honest I was just woken up by this huge sneeze which scared the shit out of me. I thought I was having a stroke but it turned out to be an absolutely massive sneeze.

Whereabouts in Scotland do you live and what would you recommend someone visiting should they ever be in your neck of the woods?

I live in Glasgow. In a house with a yellow door. I'd probably recommend visiting me. That's probably a good bet. If you can't find my house based on that description, then I'd recommend going anywhere up north/the west coast where it's beautiful or just exploring Glasgow for days and days. It's a lovely place. And if you're looking for free furniture, there's loads in my area.

What is your most prized possession?

I'd say it probably a close tie between my boots, my books and a CD given to me by my friend Greg Whalen. It was his first "album" and it was called "Some of My Songs For Lou To Listen To From Greg" and there was one copy made.

What was the last record you listened to?

Before I fell asleep we listened to the Arthur & Yu album In Camera. They're from Seattle and they're just great. This very minute I'm listening to The Only Living Boy in New York.

I see in your picture that your wearing a cravat, I myself often sport one at weddings etc etc. Could you please share with the Tuckshop followers the main plus points to wearing such a distinguished piece of neck gear?

Apart from framing ones face nicely, elevating ones visual grouping to the gentry, being very snug and, I must say, fetching, cravates serve the following purposes - they minimize the soiling of one's doublet and they allow one to successfully emulate the old fashioned kings of France. My doublet's squeaky clean.

As you are from Scotland, do you have a kilt? Or even tried a battered Mars Bar?

I do have a kilt in the distinguished Irvine tartan, no I have never eaten a battered Mars Bar. BUT, did you know, that at Easter some Scottish chipshops sell battered Creme Eggs?

Is there any wisdom you would like to share with us?

Never ever stand up in a small boat.

What was the last thing you saw that made you laugh?

Talking with my friends about soiled doublets earlier on this interview made me laugh, but the last thing I saw... My friend Dougie blowing bubbles at a "noise" gig. At the "noise" band. While they were on stage.

How can we get hold of your records?

You can buy my first record for £3 through my page on myspace. Or from me in person. Or, you can wait a few months and buy my new one. If you're willing to travel, I'll give a free haircut to anyone who buys one.

If you would like to get your hair cut by Lewis Irvine, you can book an appointment by visiting him here

A good job is an Anti Job

2009-06-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

Fresh from the DIY New York College Scene, The Anti Job have been entertaining all Jocks, Geeks, stoners, preppies, cheerleaders and even the janitor at a variety of venues close to their campus. Originally a pair, The Anti job have now required a drummer and on the back of this have released an excellent E.P self titled "We are the Anti Job"which is full of both lo-fi melodic charm and avante garde punk. It is refreshingly original and will no doubt be blaring out of the speakers of many a Students dorm and Professors office

Fresh from finishing thier summer exams, they very kindly dropped us a line to talk about their new EP and to put forward thier own version of Cockney Rhyming Slang!

So Anti Job, How are you all and what are you up to?

We are great! We are on summer break enjoying being away from the stress of school and what not. Right now all three of us are scattered all over the country with Amanda in Washington D.C, Martin in L.A, and Katie in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Would you like to introduce yourselves?
We are the Anti-Job, We are a band. And we REALLY enjoy making music. Katie Troy plays the drums, Martin lopez-iu plays electric guitar and Amanda Jones plays acoustic and sings.

If you could describe your sound in one sentence, how would you do it?

We are an indie-avant-punk-psychedelic-clepto-rock band from New York

Tell us about our excellent EP?
There are five songs on the EP. its a collection of songs written from 2007-2009. We recorded it by ourselves in a diy, unpolished spirit. We talk about war, crime, long distance relationships, mental health and pandas...yes pandas

How can we get hold of a copy?

You can download a copy of the entire EP "We are the Anti-Job" on our myspace page June 25th for free. In addition we will be passing them out at shows and if you want a hard copy you can email us your mailing address to: antijob@rocketmail.com
I hear you guys are from New York, which coincidently is where my girlfriend originates from (she moved to England when she was 7) She still dreams about eating Pizza at a place called Johns, somewhere in Greenwich Village. Do any of you know it? where is the best Place to get Pizza near you? Yea we know it we go there all the time. We know John personally...actually we don't eat pizza....only guacamole.

Am I right in thinking you guys are still at college? in England we associate American colleges with Geeks and Jocks, what category do you fall into and are you members of a fraternity?

Yes we are still in College Let's see I think we transcend all definitions And noo we are not in any fraternities there are none at our college....we can out drink those bastards anyways

Have you ever heard of cockney rhyming slang?

Yea....kinda. All we can say is an expression when someone is in trouble. Um rob a bank your in barney. Haha we try.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Martin will share his body. And hopefully we'll be seeing you at your local venue! Check out the EP!!!! "We are the Anti-Job" online and at our shows!....they will not be in stores soon.

The Anti Job can be found here......Watch out!

June Club Ugly is so Hot right now

2009-06-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

So The June Club Ugly left it's final Tuesday slot with a fair amount of gusto. It was indeed a cracker of an evening further embossing the haphazard Club Ugly brand into all those around to a level that even the likes of Sir Alan Sugar would have been impressed with. Whilst the whole of London roasted. The Club Ugly suprisingly remained cool.

Eddie Halliday opened proceedings playing records straight from his latest album "replaced by these colours", armed with no more than a few guitars and a Dr Rhythm he hand picked his way through an impressive opening set, showing us all why the good guys at naked tree recordings have yet again put faith in him. With a mix of old and new records, some loud and some sweet. Eddie Halliday left the Club Ugly entourage with both envy and admiration as he sang, strummed and daintily stepped between his line of guitar pedals, paving the way for a que of newfound admirers wantng a copy of his latest recordings.

Admittedly (due to a heavy work load), I hadn't done my homework on Off Ground Touch, and as a result hadn't even played them on Tuckshop Community Radio. "I think you'll like them" Tobias had told me as we sat outside the Social earlier that evening tucking into Chicken soup fresh from Itsu which was conveniently located round the corner. "The new stuff they're doing is cracking" he added imbetween slurps, and boy was he right as within the first few chords of thier set, I with everyone else fell into a trance and collectively hummed along to happy melodies accompanied by harmonica's, banjo, electric drum kits and soothing vocals. I will indeed be chasing them for a few recordings in the near future so keep your ears open.

Even though Jared, our compere for the evening kept the crowd in good humour, introducing to us all the new social networking game of Club Ugly Soul Mates (Come down on the 23rd to play the next installement) I'm not quite sure if anyone was fully prepared for the theatrics that surrounded the 8 instrument strong ensemble of Gabby Young and Other Animals. With the brass section standing in with the crowd, Club Ugly perhaps more than ever before became fully immersed with the performing band, the front row telepathically ducked every time the trombomist burst into solo, the second row and beyond swung to the swinging bass and ticking drums, whilst those on the side, shimmied up and down the aisle as Gabby sang strong.

It was indeed, yet again a fantastic evening and although we feel a little sad to be leaving our Tuesday slot, we look forward to seeing you on Thursday the 23rd July where we'll have some more fun and games

Dwile Flonking. Pagaen ritual or silly game?

2009-05-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

If I'm honest, I had never heard of "Dwile Flonking" , so I had no idea what to expect as I rather innocentely strolled down the main high street of the town called Lewes. A town that can be found in East of the county Sussex. It was a fantastic May Bank Holiday Sunday afternoon, where everyone was out and full of joy, safe in the knowledge that work was still a full two days away. The smell of warm ale, wafted through the cobbled streets and in the feint distance I could hear the sound of not only music playing but also the odd scream.

Intrigued by both the sound and smell, I followed my senses, which guided me firstly over a bridge,which then followed walking down a narrow side alley. Reaching the end, I found myself huddles within a curious throng of strangely dressed adults who were dancing wildly to music, holding hands around a lone figure who crouched low,long stick in hand.

Suddenly the music stopped, the dancers froze and the lone figure proceeded to flick what appeared to be an old rag, dipped in beer on to those dancing. Everyone cheered, the lone figure then literaly downed a pint, while everyone huddled aroud him. Once all the ale had been consumed, this band of straw collared, waistcoat wearing country folk, once again began to dance around a newly elected Lone figure.

Dwile Flonking, has been a tradition of Lewes amongst regulars of the infamous Lewes Arms (also the home of the international Pea throwing championships) since the mid 1960's, it does have a set of rules, which I was unable to work out. Although the initial scenes reminded me of an excert from Stephen Kings "Children of the Corn", once I had sat down on a nearby crate I felt quite at ease.

If you would like to know more about the lost art of Dwile Flonking, then you should visit the Lewes Arms website here.

Stacie Willoughby interview

2009-05-23T01:37:00.000-07:00

For those of you that either visit this blog from time to time or tune in regularly to Tuckshop Community Radio , the chances are that you've probably heard me harking on about Santa Cruz artist Stacie Willoughby. A chance sighting of one of her posters whilst in Big Sur last year, eventually led to me posting a blog about her talents. Since then we've been in touch and rather amazingly, she was happy to talk to us about all things interesting, including an unusual take on a Cornish Pasty.

What album are you currently listening too? and have you read
anything interesting recently?

I listen to The Broads a lot, and SF Watercooler's new one that
isn't out yet is FANTASTIC....their first one is great too. I found this great
record called Buskers recently that's just all these buskers in England from awhile back....you guys have great buskers!! Other than that I've been listening to a lot of Swans and the later John Fahey stuff this week.

Am I right in thinking you live in Santa Cruz? When I briefly visited this Autumn I went to this amazing vegetarian burger place called Saturn, in fact I still remember that dinner with fondness, is there anything else that you would recommend people checking out?

I do live in Santa Cruz, I actually used to work at the Saturn,
first as a waitress and later as a baker...there are tons of great natural spots
around, that's where I spend most of my time. As far as businesses,
some of my favorites are Logos (used book/record store), Crepe Place
(restaurant that has a lot of shows), Pergolesi (cafe with shows), the
Bike Church (bike repair co-op), Bargain Barn (great bulk-thrift
place)...and there's always the Boardwalk on Cheap Night! There are a
million forest and beaches and places to hike and camp and picnic
and all that. The whole county is full of beautiful places, but they're
hard to list...you just have to explore...like the other day I went to see a
waterfall in Big Basin, the oldest California state park, for the first time.

I also checked out the Surf Museum and watched the guys surf at
steamer Lane, where there was this one crazy old bodyboarder who had a big
white beard and a crash helmet, he looked amazing...do you know him?

No idea. That's one thing I don't do here is surf....but I have
surfing friends, and anyway I certainly am familiar with a lot of strange
individuals. That's another thing about Santa Cruz....we have a lot of
unique and startling inhabitants....some of them are rad and some
of them are fucking annoying.

What are you currently working on?

I am about to paint a couple of surfboards, and I have the Bert Jansch
posters to do, and there are a couple of tentative art shows in the
works, as far as that goes. Just finished Folkyeah posters for Sir Richard
Bishop and Animal Collective. Oh and I'm doing t shirts for a really great
little mexican farmhouse restaurant out here.

Are there any artists you admire that you think we should all look
up?
The list is long and I always blank when asked this question, but I
was looking at my Tisnikar book earlier today and so I shall mention
him. He is awesome.

Have you ever eaten a Cornish Pasty?

No. Is that anything like haggis? I actually like haggis alright. It
sounds like it would involve bread.. is 'pasty' like our 'pastry'
here? As far as I know, pasties are things you put on your nipples. If
you're so inclined, I mean.

What is the most awe inspiring thing that you have seen in recent
weeks?

It would have to be Mono Lake from the top of a crater, with the
sky all alien and weird over the tufas there.

and have you ever seen a great white shark? or even a Blue whale?

No. and No. I've seen smaller whales though, and once I saw a
leopard shark.

Stacie Willoughby can be found not only in Santa Cruz, but also regularly sketching awesome posters for Folk Yeah. To view her incredible gallery of work, you can visit her myspace page by clicking here

Easy Eddie

2009-05-23T01:05:00.000-07:00

Eddie Halliday will be opening the next Club Ugly on June 2nd, having just released his second album through his own impressive label Naked Tree Recordings, he has indeed been a busy chap. Despite all this going on, he has been kind enough to spend some time talking about weak Swedish cider, broken bike handles and touring with Michael Jackson.

So Mr Halliday, I believe that you've just been to Sweden, what were you doing over there?

I was recording an amazing band called Steel Island. It's there first single and i'm gonna release it through Naked Tree Recordings in September which is pretty exciting! I also played a gig in a very nice little cafe called Simpan and got a free smoothie.

Have the Swedish people been treating you nice?

They've been treating me very nice!. Better than i probably deserve. The only problem is the lack of alcoholic beverages above 2.5 % in the shops. I kept getting caught out and having to drink weak Kopperberg cider! lame

If you could describe your excellent new album in One sentence, what would you say?

It's better than my last one, not as good as my next one. Awesome artwork. Buy it or you'll go to hell... probably.

Have you managed to find someone who can fix your handlebars yet?

Yeah!. In a stroke of unrivaled genius a new shop opened round the corner from my house that fix up old bikes. So they did it and i'm back on the road. Which is good because if i had to get one more tube i was gonna cut someone's balls off and put them through the ticket machine.

I hear that your mother makes the best green bean chutney in the whole of the west country, have you inherited her culinary skills?

um, not really. Although i just made some rather fine fruit pancakes for breakfast this morning.

Where can we get hold of your excellent new album?
Well you can download it most places including itunes. And buy the awesome digipack from lot's of shops and sites including;

HMV
Amazon

and of course at Naked Tree Recordings

At the last Club Ugly, we were invaded by hip Z-List celebrity Johnny Tourettes, what celebrity do you hope to see at your gig with us in June?

Michael Jackson. I want to ask him if i can support him at all of his o2 shows. I'm pretty sure he'll say yes.

Other than yours, what album would you suggest we all go out and buy?

Grand Letdown by Scraps Of Tape. Out on Tenderversion Records in Sweden.

Do you have any other words of wisdom that you care to share with us?

Put cinnamon in your pancake mix, go to the park at least once a day and work as little as possible.

You can spend more time in the company of Eddie Halliday at Club Ugly on June 2nd, Its completely free and is well worth a visit.

You can check out more of Eddie's songs by visiting his myspace page here

Bedroom session mix with Moored in Miami

2009-05-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

I actually first met Matt Fear whilst pretending to study at University, initially through a mutual friend, we discovered a common love of Bodyboarding, a topic that has sealed our friendship over the yearS . Sadly our meetings these days are rather limited and have been confined to the odd birthday party or post college reunion, however I have always been astounded with his sharp ear for music and his consistent ability to been involved in projects with a solid reputation for playing some pretty good eclectic records . When I heard about his latest offering "Moored in Miami", and the fact that this pairing (himself and a mate) have been playing alongside the likes of Questlove, Jack Beats, Dan Greenpeace, Roots Manuva and a whole load of other reputable names, it only seemed appropriate to get him down for a "bedroom session".

As ever the Gent, He also kindly answered a few quick fire questions so that we can all get to know him a little bit better.

So then Mr Fear what is your all time favourite estate car?

My current ride is a Vauxhall Ohmega 2.5 v6 Estate, in white. But my favourite is the Volvo 240 GLT, a stunning vehicle.

Ridden any big ones recently?

If by big ones, you mean 2ft slop at Bournemouth pier? Then yes, yes I have.

Where can we find you?

In the Olive Branch. A dreadfully middle class gastro pub, full of bastards..

What in your honest humble opinion is the most important thing any discerning gent must have to gain respect from his peers?

A rapier like wit

If you had to undergo plastic surgery as part of a witness protection program, who would you ask to look like and why?

George Costanza (Seinfeld) – A personal hero

Do you like pigeons?

I quite like the idea of racing pigeons. Otherwise, I find them mildly irritating.

What are your thoughts on umbrellas?

I generally avoid using them.

What record would you recommend we all listened to?

Sally Shapiro – Jackie Junior (Junior boys remix)

anything else you would like to say?

I’m a very paranoid man

Moored in Miami are currently running a new mid week night called “Real Estate”. It’s held in a good old boozer and all the dj's involved are guaranteed to play amazing underound and Leftfield music, if you live in the Bournemouth area and fancy treating your ears to something special, you should go and check them out now.

They can be found on myspace here www.myspace.com/mooredinmiami

And you can become their friend on Facebook here Moored in Miami Facebook

And by clicking below you can listen to their latest mix.... Totally Free Man!

Club Ugly: Better than any Champions League

2009-05-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Despite the obvious post Bank Holiday blues, and the competition with the Arsenal v Man U semi final, The May edition of Club Ugly, still managed to entertain the heady mix of both music lovers, ale drinkers and even the odd magician (for those of you who stumbled in early)

It's fair to say that Death Cigarettes started the night with a pretty loud bang, this line up was always going to be eclectic, however the opening gang of East London bandits literally powered through their songs with dirty riffs, smashing drums and screeching vocals, easily stealing the attention of all onlookers. To experience Death Cigarettes live is to experience being hit in the face by Rocky Balboa's right hand. It's loud, it's raw, but they also exhale brilliance so be sure to keep both eyes and ears open when they come and play near you.

The Hornblower brothers, a jolly band from Brighton have already gathered an admirer in Indie music guru Steve Lamacq, having recently played dates with the likes of The Wave Pictures, these fine gentlemen were very unlikely to disappoint, and disappoint they did not. With their quintessential English sound, combining the use of melodica, Glockenspiel, upbeat hooks and bouncing bass lines, The Hornblower brothers kept many a foot tapping and head nodding in sync with everyone of their songs performed. Currently recording material, we can all expect a copy of their upcoming EP to be gracing our ipod in the future.

Despite blown amps and dodgy leads, Blindfold kept the crowd happy with their Icelandic sounds, combining cello and native vocals with haunting guitars, they swayed Club Ugly faithful long into the night.

Interview with The Annoying Lobsters

2009-04-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

We at Tuckshop Community Radio Can't get enough of these guys, having already spent a happy afternoon with them last month and having recorded the very excellent session with them, we once again find ourselves back in the company of The Annoying Lobsters, this time in the form of an interview, where they happily talk about beer, girls and music.

Enjoy the Lobsters, listen to their records and most importantly eat Seafood.

Hey Lobsters, how was London?

London was great. We had a good time. We drank a lot of beer, and Hyde Park! Awesome place, when the sun is shining. We were very impressed by the street artists at Brick Lane to.

What would you say the coolest thing about Copenhagen is?

The music scene. We got a lot awesome acts in Denmark, and people are open to new stuff. Everybody should come visit, you can find us at the local bar.

Did you manage to find any hot English chicks?

Yeah we found a lot, but no action since 3/4 of us is already occupied.

How was your Tuckshop Community Experience?

Really great! We had so much fun, and it was a whole new experience to play acoustic. We never really did anything like that before, so yeah, it was awesome! an>

What 3 bands from Denmark do you think we should all check out?

Beside the 3 bands we played at the show, we think you should check out: Lily Electric, Mew and Sleep party People. 3 very different acts, but all very original and cool.

Ok.....so where did the name "the annoying lobsters" come from?

In Denmark we have a story about how the Danish flag was made, it fell down from the sky, and so did The Annoying Lobsters.

if you had to stop playing in a band and had to all become super heroes, fighting against the evils of this world, what would you all be called?

Our group would be called The Amazing Seamen, and our names would be: Lobsterboy, Squidman, The Human Crab and Dr. Salmon

What is your favourite type of seafood?

Shrimp with crab and a side dish of lobster.

Did you enjoy "hair of the dog"!?

Yeah is sure were nice, Very nice detoxication, in Denmark we would call it a "repair beer".

Check out their session with us here at Tuckshop Community Radio, listen to them on myspace at www.myspace.com/theannoyinglobsters and watch their awesome video for their record below

Awaken the Beast

2009-04-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Beastman, aka Brad Eastman is one of the most exciting artists that I have seen in my shortish life. Having come across his work in the first issue of edtn, the two color brain child of art guru Greg Beer , I found myself instantly scouring the online community to locate more examples of his work, and what a feast I found. Having delved deep into his world, I discovered that this primitive animal is pretty nifty when it comes to creating images, armed with only a paintbrush in one hand and a few coloured pots of paint in the other.

When edtn held their summer exhibition last year, I was, along with many, completely awestruck with his twin piece, sadly the lack of vital funds at the time stopped me from taking the work home to hang on my wall but also show off to all my friends. Despite the bank of England cruelly denying me this pleasure, I have, as time has passed,thought quite a lot about the Talents of Beastman, and am often on his website admiring his latest creations and exhibition pieces.

Beastman it appears, is indeed a very busy animal, being not only content with his incredible artistic creations, he is also known to be pretty handy behind a camera lens. If that wasn't enough, he is also co - founder of the wicked online mag we are the image makers and has even had a go at creating his own fruit bowl, a bowl that would make you want to fully embrace the five a day theory and quite possibly even make the mouldy pieces look appetizing.

Interview with Tom Mansi and The Ice Breakers

2009-04-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

If you were lucky enough to have paid Club Ugly a visit a few weeks ago, the likelihood is that you were quite definitely blown away by the bass beating Tom Mansi and his band of ultra cool cats"The Ice Breakers". Playing tight good old Rock and Roll rhymes, these guys are quite deservedly causing a stir and shaking dance halls up and down, all over Europe with their high energy, hi-five, no nonsense sets.

Taking time out from convincing the entire worlds population to move like a madman on the dance floor, they very kindly took five to answer some quick questions.

Ok, so we all presume that Tom Mansi is the double bass spinning, sick haired singing, front man of this set up, but who are the Ice Breakers?

the icebreakers are the baddest backing band in borough of barnet, believe bro.

How was your Club Ugly experience, did you enjoy it?

All i can say is that soviet style concert bunker rock and roll suited us just fine.

Should you ever be find yourself kidnapped by Batman's nemesis Mr Freeze, who cleverly encapsulates you all within a large block of ice, what would be your chosen method of escape?

Peeing myself probably

On your recent tour of Germany, did you eat many Bratwurst?

too many, eat a "shwine saxer", that's a pig knuckle, they rock.

Did you see anything interesting?

extremely extremely life like babies dolls at a Christmas market.

Have you guys got anything lined up for the Summer?

californ1a and writing and recording

If I worked in a record shop and I had to sell your album to a customer, how would you like me to describe it?

good

Where can you be found?

internet and record shops, if you can find one!

and finally, do you have any pearly words of wisdom to share with us?

keep your music as long as you can for as long as you can.

Thank you Guys

Tom Mansi and the Ice Breakers can be found at www.myspace.com/tommansiandtheicebreakers and everyone should watch their video below and go check them out.

April Club Ugly was a blaaaaast

2009-04-15T10:29:00.001-07:00

So yet again another months exciting Club Ugly has been and gone, and yet again we had more people bursting through the doors from all different social backgrounds including photographers, people celebrating birthdays and even the odd city slicker. A thoroughly good night was indeed had by all though, and there were still quite a few standing come kicking out time!

The evening started amazingly well, Man and the Vertebrates Steam rolled through their set with punchy horns, rasping riffs and bad ass beats. The Club Ugly crowd watched in awe, with feet tapping and back bones rattling. The Vertebrates perfectly concocted mix of many different influences blending together sweeter than any April Apple Crumble.

Following a short break and powered by the strength of 10,000 men, The New Look Zetland Players, rowed their way to victory with sweet swinging sounds, lead by their Talismanic Captain. The Zetland Players certainly kept moral high amongst all their existing fans and made many more with their tales of Strongmen, sailors, odes to Robert Smith and quintessential English life, leaving the stage, they left the crowd aching for more, a desire that was more than satisfied by another man and his troops, the smooth, the sublime, the might impressive Tom Mansi and his ultra chilled Ice Breakers.

Tom and his crew of ice cold villains, swept the social aside, the double bass was plucked to precision, led by the drummers tight rhythm, the keys happily mumbled melodies whilst the guitar swung to Tom's get up and go Lyrics. Boys shook, Girls shaked and some people even were spotted wearing shades as the social rocked and rolled it's way through another Tuesday night.

It was a proper beauty of occasion, hopefully we might see you all again in May.

Seafood Special - A session with The Annoying Lobsters

2009-04-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

The annoying lobsters reside in Copenhagen, which for you that don't know is in Denmark. Having kept many Tuckshop listeners happy with their infectiously raw, Scandinavian sound. They were a band which I assumed would always be admired from afar, however assumptions are indeed a silly thing, as a few Sundays ago, I found myself at Liverpool st station waiting to meet these four fresh, Danish wonders, who had managed to sneak away from a college trip visiting some London museum, to hangout with Tuckshop Community Radio and record our latest living room session.

Having no idea what any of us look like. I happily receive a call a few minutes past 11 from an unknown number

"hello" I tentivily answer

"Hey is that Jack?" a foreign voice calls out, "we're at the station man"

Looking from the second level of the station, I immediately spy what I presume is The Annoying Lobsters. Their Scandinavian glow is quite noticeable amongst the many tired, hungover East London faces, who at this time in the morning are either on their way home or begrudgingly making their way over to Spitalfields for an untimely arranged rendezvous.

Hopping on a train that is taking us all the way to Tottenham hale (a lack of equipment meant that was where we had to record) I explain that the area isn't perhaps londons most cosmetic.

"London is cool man" Oliver tells me, "The girls are so hot" Casper chips in. I nod my head in approval and question the look of their cheap corner shop baguette that both Nickolai and Jasper had purchased to cure their fresh hangovers.

"What you need is a good old Englsh Fry up" I remark, "Yeah man", they all reply "That would be cool"

Finally, after a short trek along Tottenham High Street ,taking in such sights as White Hart Lane, we reach my mate Tobias who has kindly arranged for us to use his studio, here we swiftly record four tracks, fuelled by Jammy Devils, a dodger alternative fresh from bargain super market chain Aldi. Leaving Tobias behind and With the sun still shining we decide to make our way down to London fields to sip on some beer, check out "hot london chicks" and record the remainder of the show.

The barman at London Fields questions their age, So I get them a couple of beers and rather ironically a soda water for myself
"you guys wouldn't be planning on taking these drinks away from the pub"? the bar man asks
"of course not" I reply, lying convincingly ,I hand him the cash and we all sneak off away from the pub.

After recording the show, I take the Lobsters back to Liverpool St and point them in the way of Brick Lane, to hopefully not only absorb some local culture but also meet some local ladies.

"Thanks a lot man " they all say, "We've had a lot of fun today" and after a warm shake of hands with each of them, I watch them walk towards to heady lights of Shoreditch, hoping they'll take in more sights.

The Session with The Annoying Lobsters can be listened to by clicking below and they can be found at www.myspace.com/theannoyinglobsters