Well, well – here we are again taking an all too brief sojourn into Platinum Al’s Punk Rock Corner. This time, a band that many of you may well be aware of, thanks to some fairly successful Metal overlords by the name of Metallica covering one of their filthy little ditties. Yes, it’s the incomparable Anti-Nowhere League! Anyone with a sensitive disposition should look away now, things are about to get very, very messy.
Our old pals at Cherry Red Records have seen fit to reissue the Anti-Nowhere League’s debut album from 1982, “We Are… The League”. Just in time too, ‘cos my old copy is absolutely knackered and would be more use for shovelling horse poo than listening to. Now I only have MP3 files to review the music – and this release is of course, on big sexy vinyl – so we’ll have to trust that the physical version will be up to scratch (no pun intended). From what I can see though, the final package itself looks bloody good.
And musically? Well, if you’re the type of music fan who likes Tech Symphonic Death Metal Opera, you may be confused. The lack of virtuosity on display here will make your jaw drop, the crude musical renderings and disgusting lyrics will make you nauseous. But don’t worry, I’m sure there’s some new Nightwish album or whatever for you to enjoy instead.
‘We Are The League’ is a great rabble-rousing opener: setting out the bands lewd manifesto right from the start, with self-deprecating glee. And the filthy fun doesn’t stop there, with classic pogo inducing mayhem in the likes of ‘I Hate People’ and the delightfully crude ‘Animal’. The “serious music” fans will be aghast at the mauling of Ralph McTell’s ‘Streets of London’ and then probably run for cover and bolt the door, when ‘Let’s Break the Law’ comes on.
There are two bonus tracks added to this release. ‘Rocker’ is tagged on the end of Side 1, and the infamously obscene ‘So What’ (the afore mentioned Metallica cover) on Side 2. Though the latter song doesn’t appear to be available on the pre-release download? Strange. If any readers are still unfamiliar with this particular ode to debauchery, oh boy – I wish I could see your faces when you hear it…
Whether the humour in this recording has stood the test of time is for those wiser than me to discuss. If a bunch of uncouth punks cranking out obscenity ridden, buzz-saw guitar rock music sounds like a good time, you’re gonna love “We Are… The League”. It’s not big and it’s not clever, but it is a raucously fun time from start to finish.
Pentre Fest – it’s no secret that I’m a fan of this two day Metal festival held in a pub/club down the road from me. Organised by the hard working and hard rocking people at North East Wales Metal Productions, it’s a non-stop feast of fine tunes, the very best of underground Metal from around the UK.
Here’s my write up my experiences from this years event. You can read a full account from Team Ever Metal over at their site.
Day 1
Hiraeth
My excitement had been steadily rising for weeks ahead of Pentre Fest. You just can’t beat this mini two-day festival in North Wales, it really is the gig highlight of the year for me. I arrived just in time to catch Hiraeth, a great Black Metal band who originate from not too far away in Wrexham. Taking the Black Metal template and weaving tales of ancient Welsh folklore and history, these sword wielding warriors bring a positive, inclusive vibe with their increasingly accomplished musicality. A great band and a real high point to start with.
Attic Theory
Liverpool’s Attic Theory were up next on the main stage, and though they were new to me, they really made a good impression. Full on, hard hitting alternative rock, Attic Theory ploughed through the room with a big riffs and anthemic vocals. I love me some Grunge and these guys had the power and a magnetic groove. Unfortunately they buggered off home before I could buy their delightful album on sexy vinyl!
Battalions
The band I was most excited to see at this year’s gathering was Battalions, who I’ve developed a bit of a fanboy adoration for. They’re on APF Records so that’s a mark of quality right there. Thankfully, Battalions’ monstrous, doomy, fuzzed out riffs were even more satisfying than their quite brilliant album ‘King of a Dead World’. They warmed my ancient, jaded soul with a sludgy set that really was a Pentre Fest highlight.
Miserable Sinner
Outside, the cold drizzle made viewing the Keymo stage a bit of a challenge – never mind actually playing on it! I did catch Geordie of Bad Earth performing his Miserable Sinner solo acoustic set in defiance of all the mighty Thor could unleash upon him, with AC/DC’s “Whole Lotta Rosie” being a particular favourite!
Basement Torture Killings
A brutal, Death Metal Grindcore band of lunatics who’ve watched too may serial killer documentaries, Basement Torture Killings certainly know how to entertain. It was a case of “Netflix and kill”, as they tore through a visceral set and eviscerated a huge cuddly teddy bear. Not my usual type of O Positive, but BTK served up a memorable, blood soaked show. Time for bed.
Day 2
Firefly
Running late as per usual, I actually wasn’t punished too badly this time as apparently Edd Case had declined his opening slot! Instead I arrived just in time to see Firefly, who had only just started their set. An amazing start to the festivities, Firefly brought their own brand of Industrial Goth Metal to give everyone a big wake up call. Like a mix of Rammstein, NIN, Gary Numan and Sisters of Mercy with the smoky vocals of Marianne Faithful (like what Mare said), this was pretty damn unmissable. Check ‘em out!
Victim of Damp
Opening proceedings on the outdoor stage was Victim of Damp, alias Pentre Fest die hard Frank Williams. His amalgamation of gentle covers and humorous originals improves with confidence every time. A free shot of the old alcohol helped warm us all up too!
Losing Light
This band sounded like an interesting premise, and indeed they were. Four guys from fairly close by, they have plenty of experience but are a relatively new proposition as Losing Light. Usually, their set would include a couple of covers, but these were dropped for this first Pentre appearance. Very confident and excellent musicians, their own self written songs were more than capable – Losing Light gave us an electric performance. Let’s hope they return soon.
Oliver Carins
Quick, no time to put your feet up – get out to the Keymo stage! Oliver Carins, usually part of Scarfoot (who are a hell of a band anyway) gave us a superb acoustic set with fine vocals and masterful guitar skills. Folky and warm, the songs still had that signature epic Scarfoot edge.
The Raging Mabels
Sadly, Any Given Reason were unable to play this afternoon, so the daring Raging Mabels parachuted in to save the day. And boy did they rage! A set of powerful yet tuneful rockers, the Mabels played an energetic non-stop set that rattled by like a rocket riding coyote chasing a roadrunner. Equally at home playing for fans of Motorhead or the Ramones, it’s no secret that this pretend rock journo is a mega fanboy – the Mabels are pure joy! And they (finally) brought some merch!!!
Chain of Survival
Theigns and Thrawls did a brilliant acoustic set oustide next, but more about them later. Let’s skip forward a little to Chain of Survival. Another Liverpool based band, this time we have a Hardocre Thrash Punk four piece who are utterly uncompromising. If you ever played DRI or Sick of It All casettes from a boombox while skateboarding in a local supermarket carpark (as I still do) then you’ll love COS too.
Fallen North
These guys have played McLeans gigs before, but they showed up in full force – this was not a dress rehearsal! Full on, no apologies modern metal with crunchy riffs and soaring vocals, Fallen North soon had the crowd won over. They stepped down from the stage to join a fan on the dancefloor, still playing, and giving one of the most heartwarming moments of the weekend. Well played all round.
Kevin Plant (Cry For Mercy)
Blues rock royalty Cry For Mercy weren’t playing this weekend, but vocalist/bass maestro Kev Plant braved the elements outside on the acoustic stage for a solo performance. Great playing augmented with Kev’s trademark soulful, Paul Rogers like voice was an oasis of calm. It takes some cojones to tackle Chris Cornell’s vocals, but Kev’s version of Audioslaves ‘I Am The Highway’ was respectful and stirring.
Ogun
The world needs more authentic Thrash Metal. Thankfully Liverpool’s Ogun delivered a rousing set of the genuine article at Pentre Fest. Not dated or old fashioned in anyway, just modern thrash in the spirit of Testament, Exodus and even Slayer. Speed but without compromising on songcraft or melody, there’s plenty to enjoy in Ogun’s set. Not their first time here and hopefully not their last either.
Bad Earth
OK, so I’ve seen Bad Earth before – but they’re always exciting. And loud! Playing their own, patented Rockcore (TM), this three piece always seem to be ready to decimate wherever they play. It’s dirty biker rock dialled to eleven and kept up way past it’s bedtime, as Geordie, Karl and Ben assault their instruments like they’ve insulted their mothers. Always a pleasure to be in the crowd for a Bad Earth gig!
Edd Case
Closing the Keymo stage outside, this wasn’t the first I’d seen of Edd this Fest. He’d already played a blinder the day before, and this time gave us a very welcome rendition of ‘Mother’ (note to bands everywhere: play more Danzig) amongst some select covers. Original material also got an airing, including the magnificent ‘Letters Back Home’, a moving and sadly still relevant masterpiece. Edd, you truly are a poet.
Theigns and Thralls
Earlier in the day, I witnessed an eye opening and refreshing performance by Theigns and Thralls on the outside acoustic stage. I always enjoy a trip into different genres at Pentre Fest and this folk set was a definite highlight. In the evening, they plugged in fully to give us a real taste of Folk Metal, the energy of which had the audience jumping and dancing around. Glorious fun for all!
Fury
This year’s esteemed headline act, there was a fair buzz around the venue for Fury’s set. And to be fair, they were worth waiting for. Specialising in the unrecycled, sheer joy of Heavy Metal in all its Iron Maiden/Judas Priest glory, these guys were undoubtedly on top form. The dual female/male lead vocals of Nyah and Julian help the band transcend any Hard Rock cliches with an outstanding, individual sound. Fury are undoubtedly excellent musicians, and have the performance and songcraft to back up their reputation. I can’t really think of a bone to pick with them. Other than if they don’t make a return visit one day, we’ll all be very upset.
And that’s it: the end of another Pentre Fest. A wonderful weekend of fine music and great company, I’m already counting down to next year. I’ve definitely got post Pentre Fest blues.
STYLE. It is for the bold. Never be afraid to be different when it comes to STYLE.
We return to the world of STYLE with what is a work in progress. If you’re up to date with everything at Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub, you’ll have seen my review last week of The Aquabats gig I went to in Wrexham. At this gig, I picked up some awesome merch that has enabled me to follow a path long desired.
But first: a brief re-cap. The Aquabats, for anyone not familiar, are a musical punk/ska band from California. And yet they are more than this: they are also superpowered crimefighters, dedicated to saving the world from the dastardly deeds of villains such as ManAnt, Uberchaun and Cobra Man. Their TV programme, The Aquabats! Super Show is a crazy, funny and absurd masterpiece and Platinum Al has become a huge fan.
To join the ranks of The Aquabats, at the gig I purchased an Anti-Negativity Helmet and goggles. They weren’t cheap, but are worth every penny. I’m now working on acquiring an official blue rash guard (that’s the top, kids) to complete my outfit. Soon I aim to be the clad in full Aquabat uniform.
Bouncing Souls + The Aquabats + Bar Stool Preachers
Wednesday 4th March 2026
The Rockin’ Chair, Wrexham
I’ve been stacked out with gigs recently (Pentre Fest review incoming), though I can’t ever get to see everything. And I don’t get time to write up a review of every gig I go to. But there was one I simply couldn’t miss: The Aquabats, playing not far from me in The Rockin’ Chair, Wrexham. Even though it was a Wednesday night, I was driving, and not sure if anyone i knew was actually going…
But this was a dream come true! The Aquabats have been on my bucket list for years, ever since I became a huge fan of their hilarious, surreal kids TV show. Now they were second on the bill for this event. Luckily I’ve also long been aware of Bouncing Souls, so everything was in place for a fantastic night.
Unfortunately, I missed the first band, Bar Stool Preachers – though I was reliably informed they were really good. I’ll check ’em out later based on that recommendation.
The Aquabats were a spectacle unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed. The full band were in attendance, all eight of them, dressed in their cool superhero outfits. Of course they were. It was an unbelievable sight, seeing them all in this smallish club.
Starting with a rousing rendition of “Shark Fighter”, The Aquabats launched into their set, accompanied by three huge inflatable sharks flying around the room. Energetic pop punk and joyous ska formed their sound, with their TV show theme tune as another highlight of a fun, crazy set.
You’ve never seen anything if you’ve never seen an audience member crowd surfing on a giant inflatable slice of pizza. Or an eight foot tall Mummy Man attacking the band on stage. Or a yeti dancing with the crowd. I was grinning from ear to ear for the full set: The Aquabats were RAD!
Headliners Bouncing Souls have been on my radar since the late 90s, their fast, melodic skate punk fitting right in with my Descendents loving musical tastes. Though The Aquabats were always going to be my reason for attending, Bouncing Souls played an incredible, crowd pleasing set: lightning paced, huge choruses, barely a break between songs.
Third song in, they played “Hopeless Romantic” which was the highlight I was waiting for. I would’ve been happy with just that one track!
I’m glad I made an effort to get to this gig. It really was an event unlike any other, worth every penny. It’s not every day that a band of punk rock superheroes save the earth whilst playing in Wrexham.
What’s that I hear? Those loyal Hot Tubbers have been going ape for my Singles Night vinyl playlists? They want more, more, MORE?! Then it shall be so, my friends! With great humility I shall acquiesce to your rabid response – here we go again for another Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub!
For the stragglers at the back, this playlist includes a bunch of 45 rpm singles that have ended up in my treasured collection. I spend an evening playing them – both sides – and with the aid of a little alcohol, have a fine old time.
Join me again for another evening enjoying playing 7 inch records of all genres…
The Kinks – “Dead End Street” / “Big Black Snake”
The Steve Miller Band – “Abracadabra” / “Never Say No”
Status Quo – “What You’re Proposing” / “A. B. Blues”
Prince – “When Doves Cry” / “17 Days”
Madness – “Grey Day” / “Memories”
Kate Robbins – “The Real Me” / “Photo Fit”
Ron Grainer – “Tales of the Unexpected” / “Malice Afterthought”
Belinda Carlisle – “Big Scary Animal” / “Windows of the World”
Bananarama – “Love in the First Degree” / “Mr Sleaze”
Barry White – “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything” / “More Than Anything, You’re My Everything”
Yes, you read that right: Agadoo by Black Lace is now in my vinyl collection. Well, you never know – it might be useful to entertain somebody one day.
Well, I certainly must’ve enjoyed myself on this particular night – 25 songs in one go is a record of a different type. I think. And what a killer collection of tunes! Classic tracks from The Kinks, Quo, Kate Bush and ABBA elevated the playlist nicely. Plus a quality punk rock section with Ramones, Buzzcocks and X-Ray Spex – and some more pop hits from Madness, Barry White and many more.
Enjoy the tunes Hot Tubbers, I won’t keep you waiting long for more!
Notes:
The Wolfmother record is single with a blank B side, which I didn’t realise when I bought it. The Horrorpops single is a picture disc, as is the POTUSA vinyl. Pretty stylish stuff.
Oh and yes, that’s the legendary theme tune from the Tales of the Unexpected television programme. Pretty cool to have that.
Welcome back to Platinum Al’s Punk Rock Corner, here at Ever Metal HQ! Where yet again, I’ll be taking a detour from our more traditional hard rock/metal path and into the wonderful world of Punk Rock! This time, a 2 CD collection of classics from Northern Ireland legendary rockers, the one and only Stiff Little Fingers. These guys should need no introduction, but if you need a place to start, this compendium from Cherry Red Records is a good enough place to begin.
All of the band’s singles – A side plus B side – between the years 1978 to 1983 are contained herein, and in chronological order, natch. Thus, we start with the original Rigid Digits recording of ‘Suspect Device’ c/w ‘Wasted Life’ – and what a way to start. Urgent, in-your-face and literally bounding from the speakers, both songs have a frantic yet melodic purpose with huge choruses.
Those tracks are followed by another bona fide classic (and possibly their best song?): ‘Alternative Ulster’. Jake Burns barks out the vocals to make this ode to boredom seem anything but boring. You’ve probably heard this track before, and if you haven’t you’re a.) in for a right old treat and b.) you’ll swear you HAVE heard it before after just one play, because it’s that flaming good.
Other blinding tracks on the first disc include ‘Gotta Getaway’, ‘Nobody’s Hero’, ‘At the Edge’ (I’ve got the 7” single of that one!) and of course the furious, growling ‘Straw Dogs’ – the first SLF song I ever heard, fact fans! The songs are a mighty combination of Punk Rock acidity and catchy choruses, with the odd reggae influence creeping in and adding some variety (such as on ‘Mr Fire Coal Man’). A couple of the B sides are more for completists – though I admit that the live cover of ‘White Christmas’ gets a habitual playing in my house every festive season.
Disc 2 blasts out more of the same, starting with ‘Just Fade Away’ with its brutally brilliant melody and rousing pace. ‘Go For It’ has been the instrumental live intro for SLF for absolute donkey’s years – and it’s another ear tickler that stays in the memory. Indeed, the second disc shows the Fingers stretching their musical muscles ever further: the reggae swing of ‘Doesn’t Make it Alright’ and ‘Safe As Houses’ are truly irresistible whilst ‘Silver Lining’ boasts a glittering brass section with joyous results.
Stiff Little Fingers manage to introduce some socio-political subject matter into their material – they did, after all, form at the height of the troubles – but this is only part of the story. With the usual Punk topics of teenage boredom and frustration, along with some tracks that are just plain old good fun, their songs aren’t preachy – but there is usually a message.
As Disc 2 progresses, the songs become more accomplished, but not necessarily more commercial. Certainly not in the vein of “selling out”. ‘Bits of Kids’ and ‘Touch and Go’ still retain that essential Punk Rock bite, even as the band develop. That early venom and energy is still discernible, but tempered with a greater grasp of songwriting craftsmanship.
This singles collection does a fine job of replacing my ancient vinyl copy of “All the Best”, the Stiff Little Fingers comp from the 80’s that covered the same material. It updates that old album very nicely, with a damn fine inner booklet covering info on all the releases. Ideal for the completist fans, covering all the essentials, it’s also a handy jumping on point for curious new listeners – though you’re gonna want the studio albums, too!
Singles Night! Singles Night! At the Virtual Hot Tub, yeah!!! Yes it’s that time again, hot tubbers – grab yourself a drink and let’s enjoy the latest Singles Night playlist!
If you’re not sure what’s going down, it’s like this: your Old pal Platinum Al has a big pile of unplayed, sexy 7 inch vinyl records – and they need to be played. So we’ll spin ’em, A side then B side, one after the other, and have the rad time while we do it.
Sound like fun? Ok, here we go…
The Stylistics – “You Make Me Feel Brand New” / “Only For The Children”
Scott McKenzie – “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Some Flowers in Your Hair)” / “What’s the Difference”
Sylvester – “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” / “Was it Something I Said”
Nik Kershaw – “Don Quixote” / “Don’t Lie”
The Mighty Wah! – “Come Back” / “The Devil in Miss Jones”
Blondie – “Dreaming” / “Sound Asleep”
Bryan Adams – “Can’t Stop This This We Started” / “It’s Only Love (Live)”
The Creatures – “Mad Eyed Screamer” / “So Unreal” / “But Not Them”
Los Lobos – “La Bamba” / “Charlena”
Kate Robbins – “Run Wild” / “Cassie’s Song”
Kim WIlde – “I Can’t Say Goodbye” / “Sanjazz Megamix”
Crystal Gayle – “When I Dream” / “Someday Soon”
Samantha Fox – “Aim to Win” / “Holding”
Billy Ray Cyrus – “Achy Breaky Heart” / “I’m So Miserable”
Boney M. – “Gotta Go Home” / “El Lute”
Nina Simone – “My Baby Just Cares For Me” / “Love Me or Leave Me”
The Monks – “Nice Legs, Shame About Her Face” / “You’ll Be The Death of Me”
Transvision Vamp – “Baby I Don’t Care” / “Time For Change” / “Strings of My Heart”
Sinitta – “love on a Mountain Top” / “Don’t Tell Me Not to Cry”
The Alarm – “Unsafe Building” / “Up For Murder”
Now that’s a pretty eclectic playlist. Covering all manner of genres from pop, soul/disco, rock, punk, country, blues and more.
The absolute cream of the crop is the Muddy Waters single – “Mannish Boy” is one of the greatest songs ever written. This version came from a late 80s Levis commercial, always a handy way to pick up reissued classic songs. Similar with the equally awesome Nina Simone record.
The Stylistics are one of my Dad’s favourite bands and something I grew up with. Any Disco records on these lists are a result of upbringing
Sinitta crops up again, due to the fact that I always had a crush on her. Likewise Sam Fox, Kim Wilde and Crystal Gayle and of course Debbie Harry. Though I never fancied Wendy James of Transvision Vamp. Good track, though.
No absolute stinkers this time round, either. “Achy Breaky Heart” is a kitsch classic and I love it – stoked to find that one in a charity shop!
And we’re done. Another pile of 45 rpm goodies played – stay tuned for more, very soon!
Well 2025 certainly delivered the goods for new music. As in previous years, Ever Metal asked me to compile a list of my Top Ten albums from the worlds of Rock and Metal, so I did. The list has already been published over on EM, but I’ve reproduced it here for anyone who missed it…
You know what? It would be easier to pick my All Time Top 20 Albums than a Top 10 for the year. I know I say this every year, but 2025 has been a really strong one for new releases. Whatever the genre, there have been some beauties. So here are ten of my favourites, listed from one to ten, but to be honest – the ranking between these exemplary specimens doesn’t mean that much.
Admittedly, I was late on the bandwagon with this band, but I don’t care. Pigs x7 dropped this Stoner Metal monster and I shamelessly joined the admiring throng. “Death Hilarious” is crazy riffage for a good time.
This album of dreamy Doom Pop has been played relentlessly chez moi since its release. Mournful bass, crashing drums and reflective vocals create an otherworldly tapestry.
A beguiling soundtrack for a strange world, Spider Kitten knit the heaviest of sludgy riffs, avant garde Doom and Spaghetti Western music into something truly original and unforgettable.
I saw Froglord live and immediately fell in love with their sludgy, amphibious grooves. “Metamorphosis” is a masterclass in swampy riffage and it has constantly cheered me up since it oozed into my possession.
This band go from strength to strength, and their “Move Mountains” album became one of my most played albums of the year. A full-on Stoner Rock, Grunge and Metal hybrid that always drags you back for another listen.
The second album from King Kraken builds on the triumphs of its predecessor, but adds an even tougher, uncompromising Metal edge and daring new textures.
The absolute Overlords of fuzzy Doom Boogie, Master Charger’s 2025 masterpiece delivers everything that you could ask for, plus more. Extremely infectious in every good way. Essential!
Right from the first spin, I knew this glorious album would be a contender for the best of the year list. A stunning album that isn’t afraid to branch out in new directions, whilst staying true to the core of what 1968 do.
And there you go, ten superb albums that I’ve loved this year. Honourable mentions go to Supersuckers, Melvins, Toranaga and Jonathan Hultén for releasing top quality music that nearly made the cut.
Happy New Year all – here’s to the new sounds of 2026!
Don’t forget to keep visiting Ever Metal – and Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub – for the best music!
Are you ready for more rock’n’roll? And very possibly lots of other genres of music too? In that case, pilgrim, you’ve come to the right place. You know it – it’s another Singles Night here at Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub!
Now, for any of you brave readers who are muddled and befuddled by what a Singles Night involves, here’s the lowdown. You see, I possess a huge collection of 7 inch vinyl singles, none of which have been listened to (yet). So the concept is to spend an evening playing these records – both sides – and have a grand old time doing so.
During the course of the night, we’ll hear a variety of music, old and new, with plenty of surprises.
That’s not so scary, is it?
Grab yourself a drink and let’s check out the latest playlist:
Cheap Trick – “The Flame” / “Through the Night”
Stiff Little Fingers – “Silver Lining” / “Safe as Houses”
Belinda Carlisle – “Live Your Life Be Free” / “Loneliness Game”
Salt-N-Pepa- “Let’s Talk About Sex (True Confessions Edit)” / “Let’s Talk About Sex (Super Crispy Mix)”
Herb Alpert’s Tijuana Brass – “Up Cherry Street” / “Numero Cinco” / “Mexican Shuffle” / “The Girl From Ipanema”
Magazine – “About the Weather” / “In The Dark”
The Lotus Eaters – “The First Picture of You” / “The Lotus Eaters”
James Brown – “Rapp Payback (Where iz Moses?)” / “Rapp Payback Pt. II (Where iz Moses?)”
Huey Lewis & The News – “World to Me” / “It’s All Right (Live)”
Dannii Minogue – “This is it” / “It’s Time to Move On”
Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody” / “These Are the Days of Our Lives”
The Kinks – “Tired of Waiting for You” / “Come on Now”
Big Country – “Wonderland” / “Giant”
Timbuk 3 – “The Future’s So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades” / “I’ll Do Alright”
Derek & The Dominos – “Layla” / Eric Clapton – “Wonderful Tonight”
Jesus Jones – “Right Here, Right Now” / “Move Me” / “Damn Good at This”
Big Country- “In a Big Country” / “All Of Us”
Electric Light Orchestra – “Don’t Bring Me Down” / “Dreaming of 4000”
The Belle Stars – “The Clapping Song” / “Blame”
S’Express – “Hey Music Lover” / “Have a Nice Day”
Not a bad evening’s entertainment at all. A thrilling exploration through several genres, from pop to punk, rock to funk, and more. The only song I wasn’t a fan of was that hideous Clapton claptrap, so that’s a pretty decent result.
Lots of highlights, and I’m shouting out SLF, James Brown, Big Country, The Kinks and Jesus Jones as particular favourites.
Hope you enjoyed that list of killer tracks. More soon!
Singles Night! At Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub! It’s back – and better than ever!
What is it? A night where I play through a pile of as yet, never spun 45rpm vinyl singles. Both sides, whatever the genre, in whatever random order the fates have decided for me. There’s all sorts in that collection of 7 inch records, so it makes for a fine playlist (with a couple of drinkies to aid the process).
Here’s the latest playlist:
Toyah – “Don’t Fall in Love” / “Snow Covers the Kiss”
Doctor and the Medics – “Waterloo” / “Damaged Brains”
The Screaming Blue Messiahs – “I Wanna Be A Flintstone” / “Jerry’s Electric Church”
Blue Oyster Cult – “Astronomy” / “Magna of Illusion”
Motorhead – “Overkill” / “Too Late, Too Late”
Sex Pistols – “C’Mon Everybody” / “The God Save The Queen Symphony”
Pete Mac Junior – “The Water Margin” / Godiego – “The Water Margin”
Peter Sellers & Sophia Loren – “Goodness Gracious Me!” / Peter Sellers – “Grandpa’s Groove”
The Professionals – “Little Boys in Blue” / Gillan – “I’ll Rip Your Spine Out”
Stevie Wonder – “Lately” / “If It’s Magic”
Psychedelic Furs – “Heaven” / “Heartbeat (Remix)”
The Cars – “Drive” / “Stranger Eyes”
Sex Pistols – “God Save The Queen” / “Did You No Wrong”
Run DMC – “It’s Tricky (Remix)” / “Proud To Be Black”
Bow Wow Wow – “Go Wild in the Country” / “El Boss Dicho”
Atomic Rooster – “Tomorrow Night” / “Play the Game”
Black Sabbath – “Hard Road” / “Symptom of the Universe”
Anthrax – “I’m the Man” / “Caught in a Mosh (Live)”
Anti-Nowhere League – “I Hate… People” / “Let’s Break the Law”
Eighth Wonder – “I’m Not Scared” / “J’ai Pas Peur”
Lynsey De Paul – “Ooh I Do” / “Nothing Really Lasts Forever”
Sly Fox – “Let’s Go All the Way” / “Como Tu Te Hama”
A great selection. I can honestly say that I’m not ashamed of any of those singles. Except, maybe, “Goodness Gracious Me” which is somewhat… ah, dated, shall we say? At least the lovely Sophia Loren adds a touch of class. And she’s not the only beautiful lady in the list – I always had a crush on Lynsey De Paul.
Notes:
Two Sex Pistols records included here. including the wonderful “God Save The Queen”, one of the greatest rock’n’roll songs ever recorded. And we all know it got to number one really! There’s also a track from Jones and Cook as The Professionals, here on a Sounds flexi disc with Ian Gillan.
“The Water Margin” was a classic Japanese television series, shown in the 1970s. I vaguely remember it, but watched a later 1980s re-run religiously. The theme tune is brilliant. This single features a version in English on one side, and Japanese on the other.
Some great classic rock in this list, with Blue Oyster Cult, Atomic Rooster and a later Black Sabbath single (on purple vinyl in this case). A legendary couple of Motorhead tracks too, plus Anthrax throwing down some proto rap metal.
More punk from the Anti-Nowhere League: both of those tracks are fantastic.
A really enjoyable evening of music: random but unforgettable. More soon.
Platinum Al's Virtual Hot Tub 