1. First post lockdown gig!
The excitement that I am going to a gig next Friday (21st May) is now kicking in - it all looks good to go. My friend Matt and I will be seeing the magnificent Mr Gruff Rhys from Super Furry Animals at the Islington Assembly Hall. I cannot wait, and really hope he plays his fantastic last single, Loan Your Loneliness.
2. Tina
Brilliant, if harrowing, documentary about the great Tina Turner. From her early life, to her abusive relationship with husband Ike, to her escape and resurrection of her career as a stadium filling rock star, it's an amazing journey. Plus you forget - my God, she could dance as well as sing - she was a whirlwind on stage! This is her retirement, her goodbye to her fans and its a dignified closure on a career full of joy, terrible pain and incredible resilience.
It's available on Sky Arts and Now TV.
3. Madness - Before We Was We
Don't watch that! Watch this! This new four-part documentary about Madness' roots is wonderful - they remain engaging, funny story tellers (and of course, nutty boys).
This is free to watch on YouTube, streaming on BT's channel.
4. New Paul Weller Album
Fat Pop (Vol 1) is the Modfather's 16th solo album, or 27th if you include The Jam and The Style Council. It's a revelation, continuing his constant reinvention through his 45 year career. Review will follow, once I stop repeatedly playing it!
A review will follow next week, but you can hear the album here.
5. Word In Your Ear
Somehow I have managed to keep forgetting to check this out, but this is a marvellous podcast by Mark Ellen and Dave Hepworth. Both were editors and writers for two of my favourite music magazines - Q and The Word - as well as writing for Mojo, Smash Hits and several fantastic books. The Word was my music bible for several years, though it's sadly long gone - it's great to hear them chuntering away about a huge range of great music.
See you next week, blogs include reviews of Nadine Shah's Kitchen Sink, Paul Weller's Fat Pop (Vol 1), a look back at Ian Dury and The Blockheads' New Boots And Panties!! plus my favourite lyrics, and a review of our first post-lockdown gig, Gruff Rhys! Stay safe, x