The Tuckshop Living room session part 2 with Melodica!!!!

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Well, The Tuckshop "Living room session" brand took another step towards world domination when we had the very lucky experience of visiting Melodica melody and me's gaff down in the darkest depths of Brixton.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the relatively new phenomenon known as Melodica, then quite frankly you are in for a real treat.
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This group of young twenty somethings and one teenager have been causing quite a stir with their unique sound, inspired by a rich and diverse mix of music. Picking up a wealth of devoted followers (My girlfriend loves them, and so does my Dad) it appears that the Melodica the melody and me are slowly spreading their love which is happily penetrating the ears of many, leaving everyone wanting more and more.

So it was without delay that Tuckshop forced them to agree too a session recording, armed with earl grey tea, wine, cheese and Jammie dodgers, it was the perfect way to spend a cold saturday afternoon over the easter weekend.


With Legendary Tuckshop photographer Joel Knight in tow with his fingers ready to release the image trigger, we were given three wonderful pieces of melodica magic and an education in some absolute awe inspiring music.

Be sure to listen to the session and check them out on their myspace page. They're the bookies favorite to move on to bigger things and have already been aired by Robb da bank who loved them so much, that on the strength of only hearing one record, snapped them up for his awesome camp bestival project.

Be sure to Check these guys and if anyone wants to have their own piece of Melodica the melody and me, rumour has it that an ep is ready to be released.....Seriously watch this space.....and have a listen.

Hail O Titus, Chap Magazine and A brief history of Vans

Get Ready for "O TITUS"

For those of you that listen regularly to the show, it would have been pretty hard to have missed the exquisite talent of Tuckshop favorites "O Titus". Their perfect blend of quirky pop, summery rock all packed into a near perfect 3 minutes has not only astounded us, but has began to gather pace, ensuring a growing breed of fans from all over.

Following the success of 2007's release "silver streak girl" (on house P records), These chaps have been literally 'workin' night and day, performing to a wide group of punters all over the capital, hard work which, when mixed with their unarguable talent paid off, following a support slot for Pete Dohertys group of social misfits "babyshambles" late last year.

"O TITUS", Also trained Gorilla Hairdressers.


O Titus have the potential to take on the likes of P Diddy amd Damon Dash, giving those low jean wearing, diamond adorning, marketing mavericks a run for their dollar, as it only needs one visit of the bands awesome website to see that O TITUS IS not just a band, O titus is a way of life.

This week we featured one of their excellent records entitled Seagulls, rumored to be released to the general public in May , so have a listen, pay them a visit and rub your hands in anticipation.

Have a listen now!!!

Smarten up and improve all aspects of yourself by reading The Chap

As I approach the upper echelons of my twenties, I have noticed that a strong desire to "smarten up" has grown slowly within me, not only do I dream about getting hold of my grandad's vast collection of tweed suits and fine leather brogues, but, I also long to possess the very much forgotten skills and knowledge which are necessary to become a Gentleman.


Recently this need to improve oneself has made its way subtly into my wardrobe, wearing silk scarves (see last weeks blog) and leaving the house wearing a barbour coat. However, it seems that now my full transition into a "modern dandy" can become a reality as my prayers were finally answered as I discovered the bi monthly gentleman's publication known as "the chap".

The Chap Olympics - Get Training now.



Commenting on all the important issues that face every young squire, noble and decent hard working man. This handy booklet comes small enough to conveniently sit in the pockets of my wax jacket. Printing features such as P.C World, judge my shrub and am I chap?. alongside important and interesting articles offering tips on appropriate cravat knots, and moustache grooming. Chap Magazine offers hope in the world of sock suspenders and good manners, bringing me at least a stage closer to my desired status.

Be sure to check out The Chap at a news agents near you or to subscribe and welcome the world of chap into your life click here.

Vans, More than just a shoe

As I embarked this week on a new job, it seemed appropriate that I should celebrate the occasion with a new pair of trainers. With the arrival of spring fresh in my mind, I figured it was time to pick up my annual summer pair, which as always is a pair of vans. For me there really is no alternative for my feet during any summer in the city, keeping them cool in more ways than one.
I've always been a fan of the vans design (the era being my personal favorite), having spent large parts of my life around skateboards and the sea, Vans seem an obvious choice, however, it dawned on me, that to many wearing these shoes, they may not be aware of their important cultural impact.


Opening for the first time in 1966, The Vans store offered 3 designs which the customer could choose from. At the end of the first morning they had received orders for 12 pairs, in the afternoon these customers arrived to pick up their purchases, however the store had no change so all the customers were given their new shoes and asked to return the next day to pay. All 12 returned.

Skate legend Tony Alva - coming to a pool near you!


Vans continued to produce their custom shoe in any colour for many years, however, during the early 70's the shoes started to be picked up by an emerging group of skateboarders, the infamous Z-BOYS, who hailed from a nearby area known as Dogtown. As the Z-BOYS reputation grew as the best group of skateboarders in the world, so did the Vans trainer, constantly being photographed on the feet of skate legends such as Tony Alva, Stacey Peralta (who went on to direct brilliant documentaries Dogtown and the Z-BOYS and Riding Giants) and wild child Jay Adams. As the demand for the shoe grew, so did the demand for new designs.

Ssticking with the original customizing idea ,in 1976 Vans approached both Alva and Peralta to design a new style. This lead to the birth of the two coloured era shoe, which was originally produced in blue and red, cementing Vans position in the skateboarding culture forever.




However, Vans most famous show the checkered slip on, is perhaps the best example of the Vans belief in listening to the customer. In 1981 the guys were asked by a friend to design a style that would be used for a character in a film he was working on. This Film was to be called "Fast times at Ridgemont high". With this in mind Vans began working on a checkerboard design, as not only had they noticed "the kids at high school" customizing the rubber bumpers with this pattern, but had also received 100's of similar designs from a competition they ran which would give winners a pair of their very own shoes and a trip to disneyland.

Sean Penn as Jeff Spicoli.


As it happened, the guys at the Film studio loved the design and immediately used them. The film "fast times" then became a huge hit and the character Jeff Spicoli (played by Sean Penn), was immortalized by every rebellious teenager as he represented the "surfing, stoner outcast" donning these checkered kicks with a Tux on his prom night. To the delight of Vans, the shoe was then used as the cover for the very popular soundtrack, and has remained one of the most iconic shoes of modern times.

The Zetland Players live in their living room, Tootal Scarves and Delicious Flour Power Brownies....

The Living room sessions (Part 1) Featuring The Zetland Players.

Have a Listen Now.












Well, it finally happened, and the much anticipated Tuckshop "Living room sessions" took place. We had the rather exciting experience of visiting Ugly Nephews " The Zetland Players" for food, fun and frolics. While We provided the flap jacks, The Zetland Players baked their way through a couple of their own tasty numbers, including their current singe "sailors and strongmen" and their own rendition of the Tuckshop Community Radio jingle.








Signed to the very good Ugly Nephew Records . The Zetland Players have continued to grow in popularity, performing their brand of "modern skiffle swing" in front of mesmorized audiences all over the UK. The session proved to be not only entertaining, but also a success. Much Alcohol was consumed,and the Tuckshop Community Flap Jack was quickly polished off. However we eventually parted and went our separate ways as the clock struck 12, saying our goodbyes, I watched in awe as they vanished into the distance in search of their second love, 10 pin bowling.



Tootal Scarves (Tootally Cool!)





As a Brand, Tootal is perhaps one of the oldest British labels that still exists and is again experiencing a revival amongst the new breed of "Modern Dandies"

Originating as far back as 1799!, Tootal has continuously produced fine silks which have been adorned by the necks of many a gentleman throughout its history. A staple of every discerning Gents wardrobe throughout the 1920's, 30's and 40's (apparantely my grandad looked quite the part in his).

However, as its appeal died along with the older working class men, it was quickly adopted in the 1960's, by the then incredibly rebellious new youth subculture, known as the Mods. Often finding the standard Tootal polka- dotted and paisley numbers amongst the older generations wardrobes, the Tootal scarf soon became the ultimate piece of their all important look, pivotally blending their sharp suits and parka coats together.




These new designs are out now! having been inspired by the old classics!!. . So if you can't find one amongst your Grandads wardrobe then at least you can still add a bit of welcome "Dandy style" into your life.



Flour Power Brownies (so good, they could easily take on Gillian Mckeith and WIN)

For many, the real way to get to anyones heart is through their stomach. With this in mind, it seems only natural to mention the absolute emotional roller coaster ride that is experienced when one first tastes an original Flour Power Brownie.



For those of you who have still yet to discover this absolutely beautiful invention, we are only to happy to be the bearer of good news as for several years these small, dense blocks of ecstasy have personally cured many a hungover morning at Borough Market, thus bringing happiness and smiles to quite literally everyone involved. However, Flour Power Bakery, it seems have not only mastered the art of a good piece of cake,but also produce a vast array of fine baked goods so why not drop them a line.


Their Brownie could possibly be the answer to world peace, so next time you need to say something important say it with a Flour Power Brownie!

The latest Show, Freshman Wallets V Alexone and the wonderful world of Speakerdog

Introducing Crago (who is usually found under large pieces of Granite)


On Tuckshop Community Radio, we try our best to scourge every shore of the whole wide world in an attempt to unearth some simply wonderful, magical and mysterious people.

Recently, we've uncovered the truly amazing Talents of an individual who is known by Many as Crago





Initially hailing from the Darkest depths of Cornwall, this young man has been found finger picking his way through East London, playing guitar for Modern Folk Heroes Men-an-tol. However, it seems, that this feat alone is not quite enough, as he has, slowly over time, been venturing on his own individual project.

Keeping the sweet, melodic licks, which we have all come to love with Men-an-tol, Crago features on this weeks Tuckshop Comunity Radio with his simply awesome masterpiece "out of the blue part 2", leaving us wondering, if his sequel is this good? then what about part 1?

Click here to have a listen.....

Freshman Wallets versus Alexone Collaboration.


For those of you who are not aware of Hip British Leather Company Freshman. Then now is the time to take note.

These guys, have quite simply been producing some seriously cool leather wallets for some time now, building a firm following with not only people such as anti folk hero Willy Mason , But UK hip hoppers The Nextmen and also super trendy music producer boy 8-bit .



Willy Mason, Getting "Fresh"


However, their Talents, doesn't stop just with a few celebrity fans, as they have just announced their first Artist Collaboration with French Supremo Alexone .





As you can see this wallet is seriously awesome, and I for one can't wait to get my hands on that luscious green leather. I do warn you however that this little baby is going to be made in Limited colours , so if you want to be sure of one then visit their site at http://freshmanlimited.com/or simply email them HERE .

The Wonderful world of Speakerdog.


Discovering Websites worth visiting, especially ones which help us to pass the day Idly, is something we can all relate to, so its with great pleasure that I can introduce everyone to the mastermind of Ben the illustrator. This is an absolutely amazing site, full of the fine Gents best work, and all of his brilliant ideas. Ideas that in my eyes cannot get much better, than his Speakerdog project.


This environment loving artist, aims to improve our world through his brilliant collaborations, which are then offered to the public for Free!!, yes free!!. I for one, have several adorning the top of my TV set.

remember, a Speakerdog is for life!

The Zetland Players, Photographer Mickey Smith, Editions Magazine and 1000 listeners..

Why not have a listen to our recent podcast!!!

For those of you who don't already know, things have been really hectic for the last couple of weeks, it seems that the Tuckshop community radio vibe is growing and we are really excited about hitting 1000 listeners in one week alone. Although this absolutely brilliant, it has put me in a rather difficult spot as I had promised to have a website ready once this target had been achieved. Having reached the 1000 listeners a lot sooner than planned, I'm hoping that this new blog will in the meantime be enough to keep our friends satisfied.

The Zetland Players (having tea and biscuits)

So if anyone reading this should want to have a listen to our latest show, we had the awesome experience of "superb Skiffle Swingsters" The Zetland Players popping by to the Tuckshop Community HQ, too not only perform a couple of their records live, but also play us a selection of their favourite music. Sadly due to "Technical difficulties" (meaning we were short of a lead or two!), we were unable to record a live session. However we did put on as always an excellent show, which is now up for your listening pleasure... Also for anyone who likes the brilliant sound of the Zetland Players, you should check out their new single "Sailors and Strongmen" which can be purchased from www.uglynephew.com .

Mickey Smith Photographs (bigger than Mavericks)

Now, one thing that we all love within the Tuckshop Community is someone who is pretty nifty with an old camera and some 35mm film, so it was quite possibly love at first sight when we stumbled across the awesome photographic skills of Mickey Smith. As you can clearly see for the pic above, this guy has got a knack for not only finding a good break closer to home, this absolute beauty can be found in Ireland (will reveal location if bribe big enough), but has now built himself up a pretty hefty portfolio which features heavyweight surf labels such as rip curl and Oneil, he's also been astonishing the surfing community with various front covers for magazines such as Carve and 360. We would advise anyone to check this man out and pick up a couple of prints before the rest of the world goes crazy for him.(trust me, as I have a couple adorning my walls right now) For more information visit www.mickeysmith.co.uk .

Editions Magazine is so hot right now!!!

If any of you guys are interested in seeing the work of some of the most exciting, innovative and original artists that are currently around, then it would be worth you checking out edition magazine . Featuring the mind blowing work of people such as beastman, jeremyvile and Kronk, there really is absolutely no excuse why you shouldn't go to their site now and pick up a copy. www.editionmagazine.com

And Finally......

The Tuckshop Community Radio team are about to embark on a really exciting project very soon called the "Living room sessions". As we're still not completely satisfied with the service that we provide, we have decided to visit once a month the living rooms of some of the most exciting bands out there, recording them in their natural environment. Its gonna be awesome and the best way we can describe this awesome project would be if David Attenborough presented Top of the Pops!!!

Laters.....

The Tuckshop Community x

Tuckshop Community Radio Predictions....

So things have steadily grown from one thing to another and due to the amount of people that seem to enjoy the weekly installments of Tuckshop Community Radio, it only seemed appropriate that we tried dabbling into the world of the Blog.

Far be it for us to assume that we know best when it comes to the wonders of new music, however we do feel that it is only fair to share some of the awesome artists that we have come across and believe that everyone who is interested should at least have a listen to and enjoy the success in the coming year...

For starters, Here at Tuckshop Community radio we have been continually astounded at the purely magical music created by The Melodica the melody and me (see www.myspace.com/mmmelodic). This band of young native Londoners on the cusp of adulthood (and possible graduation), have been causing quite a stir amongst the London scene with their eclectic , original mix of sweet melodies, upbeat rhythms and soulful lyrics. Having gained a devoted audience within the capital and beyond they are now starting to ride the wave of their own success and play gigs further afield, gaining more dedicated fans, who are all too happy to experience the "Melodica movement". This is expected to grow throughout the upcoming year as bookings have been confirmed for a host of the summer festivals including Leigh Folk Festival, following a series of impressive support slots for bands such as Talk Taxis, Vincent vincent and the Villains and The Whitest Boy Alive.Without a doubt we urge anyone with any musical interest to check this band out, simply to enjoy their Utopia.

One of the most exciting bands we stumbled across last year, have already gained status in many of the music industries top tips for this year list, are New Yorkers Vampire Weekend. Performing a rather refreshing return to the Afro inspired music of Talking heads and Paul Simon in his Graceland era. Vampire Weekend offer a new take with their own College inspired Lyrics and preppy pop. With all the Justified Hype and media coverage that this young band of College Freshmen are receiving, we imagine that in very little time they will be a common staple in most music lovers record collection. (www.myspace.com/vampireweekend).

Although Tuckshop Community Radio is not exactly known for its coverage of electronic music, we find it incredibly hard not to mention the exploits of the incredibly hip heavy, beat bashing talent of music producer boy-8bit. A popular choice amongst the cool kids currently absorbed in the electro house scene, the boy has been consistently producing orgasmically original remixes and innovative music, that has had people on dancefloors moving like madmen all over the world.
Having produced remixes for artists that range from grime king Lethal Bizzle to pop prince Mika. His Fan base has branched further afield and gained good company with high profile followers such as Radio ones Annie Mac, kool kat kissy sellout and more recently, adoration from highly respected and most wanted producer Diplo (who subsequently snapped him up for his american label). If you like your music raw, dirty and to quote ones dad "groovy with a good dancing Rhythm", then The Boy is the one for you, as we are pretty sure that without a doubt this year is gonna be two thousand and boy-8bit. (see www.myspace.com/boy8bit)

As we are already seeing this year a decline in the several big record labels. Tuckshop Community Radio has begun to dream of a day when the world will be brimming full of cool independents, releasing records for the love and not necessarily the money. One label that has already begun the trend, and is leading the way, is London Label Ugly Nephew Records. (see www.uglynephew.com). With already a string of impressive releases from artists Such as The Zetland Players (www.myspace.com/thezetlandplayers) and Mohanski (www.myspace.com/mohanski). This is indie music at its finest and urge anyone and everyone to spend some time listening to Ugly Nephew and watch them slowly take over the world.....