Friday, January 31

[Big Day Out]

The day was long and tiring, but the weather conducive to fun and frivolity.

To summarise:

PJ Harvey played the most amazing set, including many of my favourite songs from Stories from the city, stories from the sea. She wore spangly hotpants and a similarly close-fitted vest-like thing, and played a big guitar. She is so wonderful. Her rendition of The whores hustle and the hustlers whore was the absolute highlight; I was so excited!

Wilco were tremendous, very laid back but often finishing their songs with a crescendo of noise. A terrific show.

The final act worthy of special mention was Kraftwerk. My gosh they are so cool. The four of them stood in a row on a bare stage, typing away on laptop computers integrated into a console, and produced the most infectious music. Sadly I missed half their show due to incredible tiredness.

Other cool acts I saw included The Waifs, Chicks on Speed, Resin Dogs and Foo Fighters. Saw a bit of Jane's Addiction but they're not my thing.

posted by pete at 21:50

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Thursday, January 30

[Big Day Out Eve]

The Adelaide Big Day Out is tomorrow. I'll be working there, but will still get to see most of the decent bands. As a matter of fact, the only ones I care about are Wilco and PJ Harvey. The rest I could take or leave.

posted by pete at 16:49

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Saturday, January 11

[A wavering note]

Given my recent mental preoccupation with the concept of living in Paris, it was a logical step for me to use a voucher from Sonia to purchase the Amelie soundtrack. However, it's not only that which compelled me – of late I've also been fascinated by accordion music, but let me make it clear that I'm only interested in certain applications of the said instrument. Experimental Scandinavian electronica qualifies (think Múm), as does the lovely, folky sounds of the Amelie soundtrack. Let's not forget Gotan Project either.

Rich piano is always good too, in nearly any manifestation, and the instrument is showcased spectacularly on the soundtrack! Amelie from Montmatre would surely be pleased.

posted by pete at 16:37

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Sunday, January 5

[Don't stop 'til you get enough]

I don't want to hear any bad words said about Michael Jackson's album Off the wall, because I think it's great.

I've been rather enjoying the song Karen Revisited from Sonic Youth's Murray Street album. I've also been listening to a bit of Crowded House lately... what a great band! I need to buy more CDs.

Eeek! Nearly forgot to mention the Gary Jules version of the (I think) Tears for Fears song Mad World. Featured beautifully in the film Donnie Darko. Download it immediately.

posted by pete at 18:22

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