Pippa says...

A first glance into the world of Daze

2010-07-28T11:50:00.003+01:00

Yesterday I ventured over to the main set of "Daze" with the intentions of digging out some more info about the exciting new project. For those of you who aren't aware, Daze is a web series following the lives of four principle characters Aaron, Josh, Sam and Jayden during the long summer of year 11.

My snooping began with a conversation between myself and the producers/directors Greg Loftman and Akaash Meeda. The location of the set is in a park, Greg and Akaash referred to it as the "central perk" of Daze, explaining that they wanted to keep the series as real as possible; most youth series have their central location in cafes/pizzarias, yet in reality most young people meet in the park. We also chatted about their initial intentions with the project, they want to promote local individual unsigned talent.

After our chat, I met three of the four principle cast members, Petrice Jones (who plays Jayden), Sophie Halford (who plays Sam) and Ahmed Mohammed (who plays Aaron). They have been enjoying their first few days of filming so I figured they wouldn't mind being bombarded with a few questions from myself.

Now for a bit of scene setting, the interview took place on the circular benches in the park, the two actors and actress were sat fairly nervous, squashed together and a fair distance from myself. Please bare in mind as you read this interview that this is simply the first of many interviews with the cast members... and these are the simplest questions that they will ever get.

"How can you describe your character?"

Petrice: "[Jayden is] a troubled teen, not sure about who he is and experiences highs and lows throughout the series. All that he really does know is that he loves hip hop dancing."

Sophie: "[Sam is interpretted as] a bit of a tomboy, being the only girl in the group with the other three boys, but at the same time she is quite motherly towards the rest of the boys, making sure they don't do anything stupid or don't drink too much - but she doesn't want to be called motherly.

Ahmed: "[Aaron] is the comical glue of the group but he's one of those characters whose importance goes unnoticed - that is until he's not around when the group need his icebreaking skills."

"Do you feel that your character is a reflection of yourself?"

Petrice: "The only thing that we have in common is that we both love hip hop dancing. I don't really think myself to be a troubled team though." (As expected, there was a bit of group banter - encouraged by Greg - "Don't kid yourself Petrice" - proof that there's still fun and games in a serious project)

Sophie: "Me and Sam are the opposite, I'm so girlie and she is so not, I'm also rubbish at confrontation and sometimes that's all that Sam knows."

Ahmed: (Bare in mind that this reply was followed by a lot of banter.) "No not really, well yes a bit, but no because I can put a mental block up to stop me doing stupid things."

"How did you get involved in Daze?"

Petrice: "There were lots of Daze audition posters up and it was talked about a lot around school. I decided to go to the audition at Loughton memorial and give it a go."

Sophie: "I was friends with Ahmed before and he told me all about Daze. When I was introduced to Greg and Akaash, it all went from there."

Ahmed: "I was actually a late edition to the cast, I initially wanted to audition for Jayden but I couldn't make the audition, luckily I was given another chance. When I didn't get the role of Jayden, I took the role of Jayden's gang rival but was then offered the part of Aaron just before filming began.

This was a short interview as they had to go and start filming but there's lots more Daze juice to come. Keep reading this blog for more updates.

If there's anything you'd like to know about Daze, questions you want answered or even how to get involved then email me at pippasays@hotmail.com.

P x

The photographs were taken by Rob Sewell.

Photo 1: Top left to bottom right - Akaash Meeda, Greg Loftman, Kenny Walker (who I have yet to interrogate), Ahmed Mohammed, Sophie Halford and Petrice Jones.

Photo 2: Left to right - Petrice Jones, Ahmed Mohammed and Sophie Halford.

Letting go and finding new directions.

2010-07-27T02:10:00.001+01:00

If I were famous, then this would be labelled as a "statement" and everybody would analyse it and want to find "true meanings" behind it. It's times like these I'm glad not to be famous. Nevertheless, I need to write this because this blog is a reflection of a part of my life - the part where I love to write.

Cutting to the chase, I'm no longer a part of the Buszy Magazine project that I spoke about in my last blog entry only a few weeks ago. It's a tricky story to tell. In the simplest way, I work a lot and couldn't make the meetings. It wasn't intentional though, I loved that project and I truly believed in it but I have a lot of money to raise so it had to go. I'm proud to say that I helped to build its foundations, I always knew I'd have to let it go at some point, it just hit me harder than I thought it would. What have I learnt from this? Let go of something that is trying to fly away.

Now time to move on. All of my articles will now be posted on here so please stay tuned! There'll be constant coverage on Daze, bands, art, festivals, even a little bit of politics, it does go on...

Wreck of the day by Anna Nalick probably sums up this article quite nicely "Finally on my way home to the comfort of my bed".

As always I encourage you to comment on this, if you want to privately discuss this then please email me at pippasays@hotmail.com

P x

Photography by Emlyn Northcote-Rojas

I'm hoooooome!

2010-07-20T01:02:00.000+01:00

As you guys will already have realised, this blog has been dormant for the last few months. I was actually somewhat flattered by the response to my absense as surprising and unexpected people asked me why I wasn't writing in my blog. Well, to all you faithful readers (and those who have simply come across this by accident), let me explain...

It's likely that most of you know this already but for those of you who don't or have simply forgotten, I have recently finished my final year of sixth form. Unfortunately, this final year included me plunging my way through stressful and somewhat vital exams between May and June therefore from April I was pretty much glued to the books.

Alas, a lot has changed in these few months. I am now the editor of the Buszy Magazine, which explores life in Milton Keynes for young people - of course, if anyone is interested in getting involved then please email me at philippa@buszymag.com. I have also taken part in work experience with BBC Blast, which I hope some of you budding arts geniuses came along to! All of this experience and my surprising ability to get through my A levels without any form of a severe mental breakdown has made me stronger.

But never fear, pippasays is back and not going anywhere. I will continue to discover the undiscovered and tell you all about it!

Infact, there's this spectacular project called 'Daze Web Series' run by an inspiring group of young people in Milton Keynes. I will be following them throughout their project and reporting on all of the updates. Everything will be uncovered on this blog: interviews, spoilers, opportunities to be in the series!

There's also a lot of fantastic stuff going on at the art gallery that is often left hidden from the eyes of interested people. I'll definitely be filling you in on all that!

So here I am, back again, reporting to you at 1am as a result of minor insomnia and boy have I missed this blog.

Do you want pippasays to comment on anything? Contact pippasays@hotmail.com.

Poetry Kapow 9 - Mega Poetic Mahem tonight!

2010-04-09T12:54:00.000+01:00

Tonight I'm off to an event that a little different than anything I've ever been to before. "Poetry Kapow" are a team of quirky, creative poets and they're putting on a session at Madcap. I've seen them do a few things before at the Big Moo 2009, MK4U 2009 and at a 'Lost and Found' event at MK Art Gallery - I have enjoyed it every single time!

It's the kind of poetry you're thinking, they don't recite Chaucer in a monotone articulated manner; they bring their poetry to life with the same passion that musicians use. As well as established contemporary poets Donna Scott and Fay Roberts (and many more) doing their stuff, the event also offers the chance for closet poets to show what they can do (obviously without the closet...)!

There will be a bit music there too, it's Josh Timmins' final solo gig in MK - I have no doubt that it's a gig not to be missed.

So avoid the MK clubs and bars tonight and venture over to Madcap for some Mega Poetic Mahem. (Oh and there's a bar there too!)

For all you facebookers, there's more information about this on: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=294209843377&index=1
Or check out: http://www.poetrykapow.co.uk/events/
Or email me at: pippasays@hotmail.com
Or leave me a comment on here!

See you tonight!
P x

MK4U warm up session - This Saturday (10th April)!

2010-04-09T12:37:00.001+01:00

MK4U - All you MK lot know what it is, a major festival by young people for young people held every year in the first weekend of July (this year it's 2nd-3rd July). Well, as this fantastic tradition has evolved, so have their promotional techniques and this Saturday some of the team will be holding a 6 hour performance session with a variety of musicians giving you a tiny teaser of the event that will take place in just under 3 months! (Time has flied by this year!)

So head to Midsummer Place this Saturday between 10am and 4pm to get some information about the event and hear some lovely music (Project Wolverine, recent winner of the "Pippasays Monthly Music Awards" and regular guest on the blog will also be playing).

If any of you are interested in volunteering at MK4U then contact pat@tscevents.co.uk - everyone's welcome! I took part in this last year and had a blast, it looks great on the CV too.

Any information either leave a comment on here or email me at pippasays@hotmail.com
P x

PIPPASAYS MONTHLY MUSIC AWARDS!

2010-03-28T23:37:00.003+01:00

Apologies for the absense but I'm back and ready to rock (yes, that's right, rock). So I had a big think about this blog and the ways that I can attract a bit more interest and I came up with some monthly awards. I call them the 'Pippasays Monthly Music Awards'! There will be 4 awards:

1. Ultimate Band of the Month
2. Solo artist of the Month
3. Song of the Month
4. Best New Band of the Month

These awards will go to unsigned bands because this blog is all about discovering the undiscovered. Also, these awards can be won by any band - I feel like branching out.

Sooo I'm going to cut the jibberjabber now and tell you announce the awards... drum roll please *drum roll followed by some kind of epic award style tension*...

ULTIMATE BAND OF THE MONTH: Faith in hours
An Instrumental Post-Rock band from Bury St Edmunds (I don't really know where that is either), they really deserve this award because their music is really interesting to listen to, some of the riffs are really simple but they make it happen all the same.
Myspace: www.myspace.com/faithinhours
Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Faith-In-Hours/185317021079

SOLO ARTIST OF THE MONTH: Project Wolverine
Slightly predictable right? I figured he deserved the first ever 'solo artist of the month' award - such a good sport :)
Myspace: www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic

SONG OF THE MONTH: He Does She Does by Jules and the Rubies
London based, this band is a joy! This song is very lyrically based but the music behind it is absolutely fantastic! Please have a listen to it!
Myspace: www.myspace.com/julesobrien

BEST NEW BAND OF THE MONTH: The Secret Circus (Josh Timmins' new band)
They're a bit electro and very promising, put them on a stage with some epic lighting and I can reckon they'll be a treat to watch.
Myspace: www.myspace.com/thesecretcircusuk

Have you heard some music lately that you think deserves an award? Nominations are welcomed and necessary so get in contact with me either on here, on the facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=230020411152&ref=ts) Also, any nominations will be mentioned on here so either way the music will get some recognition and a chance of winning the next month!

Enjoy :)

Be a devil, have a sneaky listen to the new Equinox!

2010-02-20T23:43:00.001Z

They relaunched themselves back in December and already they've gigged and recorded a brand new EP! Want a sneaky listen? The previews are up on their myspace (www.myspace.com/equinoxthebandmk)! Have a listen to 'California', 'Change' and 'You are not alone'! Make your own judgements but my favourite is 'California'! 'Change' has also grown on me a little bit more in this EP!

All in all, good show boys and girl!

I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait to hear their EP!

Have a listen and leave a comment - have your say :)

P x

PW is moving from the studio to the stage

2010-02-19T23:02:00.002Z

PW's first gig of 2010

25th February

Backstage

be there...

On 25th February, our boy is going to be released to the hounds for the first time of the decade. Over the past month he has progressed in both songwriting skills and networking skills. ALSO, as you all know, Project Wolverine is always churning out new songs, so it is no surprise that in the past few weeks two new songs have been written, recorded and released on his myspace (www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic). "England" (another spectacularly cynical social commentary about our fabulous home country) and "Loves you more than I" (another topic that is somewhat optimistically enlightening but manipulated by a minor key and the occassional lyric that symbolises the misfortunes of love). Go on, have a listen.

So when PW gave me a buzz with the details of this gig, I thought it only fair to you readers that I hammer him with a few questions...

So how did you get the gig?
"Through Gawaine Parker at Madcap*. Just told me I was playing and well, I will soon be there."

How long's the set?
"About twenty odd minutes, I need to crack down on a set list before the gig else it'll be me rambling on."

Have you ever played at Backstage before?
"Nah never. This will be a first. Need to make an impression of some sort."

Will it just be you or are you performing with a backing band?
"It'll just be me on my lonesome for all but one number. Me and Myles will be reprising an old song we wrote about a year and a half ago. Critical Stage."

Planning to do anything crazy?
"All depends on the amount I take on board before walking on stage. I'm delivering a speach but thats just a contractual agreement with my friends in government."

Do you have any more gigs planned?
"No solid dates but I am organising at the moment. Keeping it on the low at the moment incase it all goes tits up."

*Gawaine Parker of Madcap is one hell of a guy; I felt the need to reiterate this. For those of you who don't know, Madcap is a place for writing, recording and performing music; everyone there is highly supportive of each other's work. Musical geniuses of tomorrow: go on www.madcap.org.uk and get involved. If you would like any more information on madcap, contact me on pippasays@hotmail.com

So free yourself up on 25th February and go and give PW a listen; GOOD EVENING GUARENTEED.

Peaceout x

The aftermath of a chat with Josh

2010-02-18T23:27:00.002Z

Pippasays digs into the wonderful world of...

Josh Timmins

Photos taken by Craig Short, Connor Freeman and Steffi Lewis

Editted by me

Josh Timmin's is a musician. I despise my busy schedule for not allowing me the time to write about this guy sooner. Alas, along with PW, he has been cordially invited to be a regular guest on my blog. Why you ask? Well... actually, I'm going to leave you in suspense, all you curious folk can read all about my findings when I explored the musical mahem currently vacated in the somewhat weird mind of Mr Timmins himself - then I'll tell you why he will be coming back for a follow-up.

What instruments do you play?

"Guitar, Piano, Violin, Mandolin, Bass, Double Bass, Organ, Ukulele, Flute, Banjo, Drums, Vocals, Harmonica, Melodica and Harmonium. Only ever had lessons on the violin, can't read music either."

History

When and why did you start songwriting?

"I was about 13, I'd just got fed up of hearing rubbish on the radio, so sat down and wrote a song. It was awful, but without it I wouldn't have got the bug and carried on doing what I do."

How long have you been playing live gigs for?
"First gig was in November 2008. It was awful, but again, I am indebted to it because without that gig I wouldn't have got to play any other gigs, and I most probably wouldn't be writing these answers. Scary how one seemingly insignificant event at the time can just snowball."

Favourite gig?
"Favourite gig I've played was supporting Tommy Reilly at Oxford Academy 2 in June 2009. He was a properly nice guy! The day after that gig I got my management deal and three months later I was signed.

Favourite gig I've been to was probably The View at The Forum in Kentish Town, London. Everyone was just so "up for it" and the atmosphere was amazing. That gig made me re-realise how much I loved being on stage because of how it could make people bond. I met so many great people that night all because of that band. Music is amazing like that and I like to think that I could help create friendships through mine."

Worst gig?
"Well, probably my first gig. I was just so nervous and I had no idea what I was doing, but it was good fun. One of my songs still remains in my live set from that gig, but it's probably going to miss the cut on the EP and album, it's just not right for me now. That's why I rewrite my setlist so often, I love the spontinuity of being a solo artist you couldn't do that with a band."

Inspirations

What inspires you to write music?
"Anything and everything. I like to write mainly observationally. But obviously I'd be bullshitting if I said I didn't write songs about people I know or things that have happened to me."

Who is your inspiration?
"I don't have any one inspiration. I go through phases of listening to loads of different things. Mainly though it's probably John Lennon and Ian Curtis (Joy Division). Although, I'm not a fan of her music, but I have a lot of respect for Lady Gaga. Despite all the crap she gets from people, she just goes on doing her own thing and carrying on, sticking two fingers up and just doing what she wants because she loves it. I wish there were more musicians around like that now."

Performing

What do you love about gigging?
"Meeting people afterwards and hearing their stories. I have met some of my dearest friends through gigging and am entirely grateful and flattered for every single person who takes time out of their day to come and see me play. Meeting people afterwards and talking to them is only a small way of saying "thank you", but an entirely necessary one I feel."

What's your favourite song to cover?
"I've never really been a fan of covers for the simple reason that I can write songs myself so don't really need to bother playing other people's songs. But if push comes to shove, I'll occasionally whip out a cover of Something In My Eye by Ed Harcourt. If you haven't heard of him, you are missing out seriously."

Hopes, Dreams and general jibberjabber

If you could pick anyone in the world to duet with, who would it be?
"Yannis Philippakis from Foals would be cool. He's such an intelligent songwriter, so criminally under-rated. But I'd also love to have Rebecca from Slow Club come and sing for me sometime, she's probably got the best female voice in music at the moment. Paloma Faith seems like good fun too..."

Who would you least like to duet with?
"Anyone affiliated with the X Factor. That show is a) degrading and b) insulting and nothing more than an elaborate mind-numbing gameshow."

What style of music do you enjoy playing the most?
"Well believe it or not, I used to play bass in a metal band and can actually do proper screams. Part of me misses playing in a band because of the energy you can get from the others, but I'm having too much fun playing on my own to be overly worried about forming a band although we'll see what this year brings."

To infinity and beyond...

What are your future plans?
"Well at the moment I'm doing a levels, but afterwards I guess I want to become a professional musician. But if that doesn't work out, a career in A&R or talent spotting would be amazing!"

What's going on with the record label?
"Currently I'm looking for studios and picking songs to go on the EP. I'm not really allowed to say much more than that at the moment, but when I can I will tell all."

What do you love about songwriting?
"I can put everything down in there, sometimes it's so much easier to say things in song than face to face."

Do yourself a favour; get yourself a cup of tea and go onto www.myspace.com/inthebackpages and have a listen to this wonderful fellow. Then you'll understand why he's going to be a regular on pippasays.

Peaceout:)

Hana: A modern day artist

2010-01-31T22:07:00.006Z

She's young, she's creative and she's one hell of a photographer; I'm excited to introduce Hana Briggs to 'pippasays'! Have a read of this post and find out a little bit more about this luton based photographer from my chat with her earlier in the week and don't forget to have a look at her work: www.flickr.com/photos/hanaa_bananaxo!

At just 18 years old, Hana has loved photography for years and is now at Dunstable College/Central Bedfordshire studying for a National Diploma in Photography.

"It's the best thing I ever did. The work I'm producing now is a million times better than I would of expected by now."

I've selected some of my favourite shots of hers in this entry but there are so many more fantastic shots on www.flickr.com/photos/hanaa_bananaxo. As you can probably tell from her portfolio, she likes to be varied with the kind of photography she does; from music, to people, to scenery.

"Well I don't see the point in doing just one thing with photography. I like to have a taste of everything, and I like to challenge my abilities."

Hana is an ambitious and creative photographer; get in touch with her on facebook ('Hana Briggs'), www.myspace.com/mega_wastedx and/or www.flickr.com/photos/hanaa_bananaxo

"I'm proud of every shoot I do. If I like it and I get excited about doing it and I get a good result I'm proud of it.. Obviously there are some I'm not proud of, but recently it's all been so great. I'm also sure that further in the future there will be bigger and better work."

"Don't let anyone tell you can't do it. Just jump right in there and do whatever you think will improve yourself. You can achieve anything if you really get stuck in with it :)"

Photographs shown in this post: Hana Briggs, Man like me, 'Alice and Wonderland' shoot, December snow

PW MASSIVE NEWS JUST IN!!

2010-01-27T17:47:00.001Z

Tune into BBC Three Counties radio between 7 and 8 on Friday 29th January and hear our very own PROJECT WOLVERINE have a natter with the presenters! If you haven't heard any of his stuff as of yet go and give him a listen on www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic!!

There is another PW news though... when I said this guy was on a roll, I really did mean it; 4 tracks posted in two weeks: 'Hardly Know Yer', 'The People Know Nowt', 'Overdose Boy' and 'Lost Boy Blues' (www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic). I caught up with him earlier in the week to see how things are going in his awesome world of music...

You keep churning out new tunes, what inspires you?

At the moment its a lot of stuff, nights out seem to be paying a lot into it. 'Lost boy blues' is actually a product of the morning after when you walk round in such a volitile state and everyone can see it. You just feel disconected from everyone for that time, I actually enjoy it. 'Hardly Even Know Yer' is about flirting and the start of a relationship, when everything just seems right. I dunno, it just felt right to record that song in that moment.

So what inspired you this time?

Someone didn't turn up for the recording slot, I'd been knocking around a couple ideas and thought I'd abuse the studio time. Songwise? Well that was just kicking about in my head. The idea for 'People Who Know Nowt' came to me during a politics exam, that song is working out a lot of anger. 'Overdose Boy' is about a friend of a friend.

And what comes first, the music or the lyrics?

Its really organic I guess. I start building up a few lines in my head, maybe something that sticks out. Then I sit down with a guitar and try fit everything around a riff.

Were these tunes just simply made up on the spot?

Young Love was, thats why I hesitate slightly with the lyrics in points, it was more me venting frustrations at the stage when you like someone and its just all there is, when you'd rather not act on it 'cause the idea is so much better than the reality. Then you get drunk, send a text and BANG it's outta the bag. I wrote most of these songs just before I walked into the studio.

Have you ever thought about trying out a new style of music?

I'm getting together a three piece punk outfit at the moment. I was once playing bass for my mates grime outfit, weird days... nothing progressed further than his tiny little bedsit room. I'd love to do a bit of two-tone ska but its just getting a band together for it is so difficult, one day, one day.

So you have considered getting other musicians involved in your music?

I try to get a live band together sometimes just so we can do a more exciting set. Minus the odd collabortation with a one or two, I haven't really done much with it. I'd love to do some more duets with people it's just finding the time. Me and my mate once created a new style of music called 'Bongano' it was me on piano and vocal with him on Bongo and dancing. It often just fell apart into childish laughter before anything could happen though.

Apart from the guitar, do you play any other instruments?
I hardly play guitar... I mean I play Bass, Piano, Ukulele, Harmonica and a bit of percussion but its all self taught so its sketchy as.

So guys and girls, don't forget to tune into BBC Three Counties radio between 7 and 8 on Friday 29th January (that's this Friday) to listen to PW himself!!!!

P x

It won't just be a good night, it'll be a KILLA NIGHT!

2010-01-25T21:55:00.012Z

Are you bored bored bored with normal nights out; going from club to club, hearing the same old music, seeing the same old people? Nights don't always have to be like that you know, infact what are you doing on Monday 15th February at 8:30pm? Killa Nightz are holding a wicked event at Groove packed with loads of bands and DJs! If that's not enough to get you over to groove then 20% of the profit goes to Haiti (www.redcross.org.uk/haitiearthquake).

Line up
★ Wiley (in negotiation)

★ Funky Dee (in negotiation)

★ Young Nate

★ Mumzy Stranger

★ Vigilante

★ Sham

★ Navin K

★ And many more...

Also, DJ's playing the hottest names:

★ RnB & Hip Hop

★ UK Grime/Garage

★ UK Funky House

★ Drum 'n' Bass

★ Dubstep

★ Bhangra

Prices

£7.00 - First 100 reserved

£10.00 - Reserved

£12.00 - Standard

£15.00 - Queue jump
£25.00 - V.I.P (inc queue-jump)

Interested? Of course you are!! Contact: Killa-Nightz@live.co.uk

And don't forget to mention 'pippasays' when reserving your tickets!

Leave a comment on here if you're going to be there!

It's gonna be a good good night!

P x

I know how to save a life

2010-01-20T21:28:00.001Z

It saddens me to be writing this blog entry but I feel that it is something that I need do.

Neuroblastoma is a harsh, rare, fatal form of childhood cancer; one that shouldn't exist, but one that Ashley has. The truth is, Ashley is hanging on at tender hooks; he's tolerated 11 rounds of 8 types of treatment (chemotherapy, bone marrow, stem cell transplant etc.) and the only solution left for him is a £250,000 Brain Treatment at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York. Admirably, Jodie Glassock is doing a 10k run in order to fundraise for him and needs some sponsers; so far she has raised £576 towards her £1000 target.

I call to you, my readers, my followers, my friends: whatever you can give, no matter how small, will help more than you can imagine. This disease has already taken his childhood; please don't let it take the rest of his life.

Please, save him.

www.justgiving.com/Jodie-Glassock

Those who donate to this cause will get a special mention in a future post on pippasays; to let me know comment on here, email me pippasays@hotmail.com, or write 'I know how to save a life' when you leave a comment with the donation.

Much love

P x

And PW is back again!

2010-01-06T23:10:00.001Z

I'm pleased to say that the first music related post of this year is about Project Wolverine and his awesome new music. Already in the six days of this year he has written and recorded two new songs!

The one: Arguably, this is one of the most optimistic songs that Project Wolverine has ever written, sharing his beliefs of love and destiny; "You were always the one". Alas, he doesn't fail to sadden us ever so slightly when he explains that it didn't work out... "I saw my world fall apart"...

Won't see us again: To me, this song reminds me of why I am so inspired by Project Wolverine. His delivery in this track is care-free and laid back, which makes the music seem even more raw and original because it hasn't been played with. In some places the lyrics seem to have been made up on the spot; particularly when he sings "I'm so ill now" after embracing us with a cough. If they have been made up on the spot then let me tell you, Project Wolverine is far more talented than any of us give him credit for; lyric writing is the hardest in the book. I particularly love the dialogue at the end, which I urge you all to listen out for; it will make you chuckle.

Everyone must give this guy a listen; everyone needs a bit of PW in their life!
www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic

Tens? Teens?

2010-01-01T20:30:00.003Z

To all you readers: I hope you entered 2010 in style! Friday 1st January 2010, I can hardly believe it myself; I’ve been waiting for 2010 since I understood the concept of moving out. I only have 9 months left in Milton Keynes, it's pretty crazy really!

So last night/2:30am-ish this morning I made some resolutions, many of which I'm sure will epically fail in a matter of days:
1. Keep improving this blog!
2. Pass A levels.
3. Stop eating jelly babies - already failed.
4. Don’t get so obsessive over Su Doku - tricky...
5. Go to the gym more.
6. Pass driving test.
7. Don’t crash any cars!
8. Get good at making my parents tea (please note that was forced upon me).

9. Help my parents with their tea addiction.

10. Get some work experience in Journalism and/or the Music Industry!

Now it’s your turn to make some comments! Do you think that this new decade should be called the tens or teens?! I guess anything is better than the ’noughties’ that we were stuck with for the past nine years... Also, please do share your new years resolutions; let us know your craziest ones!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

love Pippa :)

Let's hear it for the Lark!

2009-12-28T22:16:00.004Z

Photography by Phoenix

Steve McDaniel: Lead and Backing vocals, Keyboard, Recording, Programming Production

Tim Keymerdiner: Drums/Percussion, Art Direction

Guy Jones: Bass

David Wilkinson: Guitar

The first time I listened to Steve and the Lark's album, I was travelling on a train. At that point, I had owned the album for a few weeks, but I waited to listen to it on this particular journey as it resembled the ambition in my life in the same way that the album resembled the ambition in Steve's life. Steve has dedicated his entire life to music: some of you may know him as the keyboard player in Solstice; some of you may remember him as a mentor, encouraging and supporting you and your musical talent. This album is shows us, the audience, the side of Steve that we often forget: songwriter Steve.

There is something ever so encouraging and refreshing about this album, something that reminds us of the reality of music and its ability to become an emotional outlet to the musician and the listener. When I began to listen to to it, an overpowering feeling came over me: in my hands was a man's lifework; his definition and ultimate perspective of life. This album has taken Steve 25 years to create and he has pulled out all of the stops to create perfection; from calling on old friends to help him to setting up his own record label. I can safely say that each and every second of melancholy and frustration that he has felt whilst producing this album has well and truly paid off.

SONGS TO LISTEN OUT FOR:
'Today's the day': This is not only my favourite song on the album but it is one of my favourite songs in general; I can't listen to it without instantly feeling inspired and enlightened by not only the message of the song but the way that it has been represented in the music. I am most inspired by the way that Steve introduces new wind and string synth sounds as the song progresses; it gives the impression that the music is unlimited. Also, the lyrical simplicity and addictive melody represents the simplicity of the message itself; "Today's going to be a beautiful day."

'Sweating Cold Minestrone': This is very contrasting to 'Today's the day'; it's jazzy and you will dance in some way or another to it, trust me. The versatility and professional musicianship of the band really shines through on this track; they're tight and precisely articulate throughout. I completely guarentee that you will be singing "sweating cold minestrone" but my absolute favourite lyric of this song is: "you've got the devil in your soup".

'Moments': Accompanied by Katie Buckhaven on vocals, Steve has taken advantage of the two completely contrasting voices by writing the vocals in unison. Steve has also stripped down the instrumentation with only keys and vocals. 'Moments' is a delicate number to be listened to when in need of a lullaby or some form of relaxation.

'Blue Stone Lane': This song is beautifully tragic; lyrically, musically and in context. The lyrics were written by Anna Driscoll and dedicated to Steve; devastatingly, she passed away a few years later. Steve has taken these lyrics and accompanied them with music. The music itself has a slow tempo and consists of only keys of which follows the lyrical melody line. 'Blue Stone Lane' is the treasure of this album; not only is it ornate in its own musical right but it holds the heart of this album as a masterpiece of Steve's life; his sorrowful memories as well as his perspectives.

Talking Festive with Project Wolverine

2009-12-24T14:35:00.002Z

It's that time of year again, when the bells are ringing, small children start singing and people begin to reflect on the year that has quickly flown past them. I thought I would start the celebrations with a little festive chat with our favourite pessimist, Project Wolverine.

Christmas
First off, what is your favourite part of Christmas?
"Christmas Day and its aftermath of pretty much constant parties. Its the lead up to christmas I can't stand, what with the shopping and cries for world peace."

What's your favourite Christmas song?
"I don't know really, I mean I have a favourite christmas Album (is that normal?) Christmas In The Heart - Bob Dylan.
Actually no, Christmas Blues from that album, just nails christmas perfectly."

Have you ever covered any Christmas songs?
"I've covered Killing In The Name Of a few times."

Have you ever written any Christmas songs?
"Not yet, maybe when I start to feel less like scrooge."

But if you were to write a Christmas song then what would its main focus be?
"It'd probably be pessamistic as hell."

Are you a brussel sprouts fan?
"YES. They are actually one of the things that make me look forward to christmas."

New Years
Looking back at 2009:
Highlight of 2009?
"Nass Festival. Went for the weekend, ended up getting trench foot 'cause it did not stop raining. Saw some boss music though, and got concussion. Something which led to the song Chance Encounter....."

Would you say that 2009 was better than 2008?
"Probably, My memories of '08 are shot at the moment. '09 saw gigs, campfire drinkin' sessions, random drives to nowhere and well, all the shit I'm supposed to be doing."

Favourite memory?
"London, went to Woyzceck start of this month, the whole day just desceneded into a series of meaningless jokes, insults and random altercations. Definitely worth all the risk factor that came with it."

Most embarassing moment?
"London again, had a panic attack on the tube. Bad times."

Out of the songs written by you in 2009, which one is your favourite?
"Pub Politics is definatley a favourite to play live, but overall has to be Murdoch. First song I managed to write on the old piano."

What's your favourite song of 2009 by another artist?
"Its so rare I listen to up to date music. At the moment, Stellify by Ian Brown is definitely making my year."

Best gig you went to in 2009?
"The King Blues at Nass. Solid times. Followed close by the Sub Focus set I saw the night before in the old warehouse."

What about the worst gig of 2009?
"I stumbled into Hadouken for about ten seconds, I still hate myself for it now."

Do you have a favourite gig that you played in 2009?
"This Sunday just gone (20/12/09). Played The Vaults Bar in Stony Stratford. Its been a long time goal of mine to play there, with its rich traditions in folk music and Sunday I managed that. Stood outside around half nine, blagged a twenty minute set from some guy I don't know. Anyway, got up to play the set, ripped through Pub Politics, forgot how Daily Mail went and just riffed with the audience for a bit. Got back on track after that and made it through the rest of the set relativley smooth. Plus the audience sang along a bit."

And your worst one?
"I played a charity gig at the Crauford. I forgot my set, broke my guitar and had to borrow another one. This was before the days when I realised set lists where a good idea."

Looking forward to 2010:
Excited for New Years?
"For the first time in two years I am. This will be the first one I haven't had to work in a while."

Any plans?
"Pub followed by House Party. Simple stuff, but enough to go blind."

What are your aspirations for the New Year?
"Play more gigs, get signed to some shitty little indie label and go off to uni."

Any New Years resolutions?
"I don't really make them, I can fail without needing to set a goal."

Do you have any other comments you'd like to make about this festive season?
"Yeah actually one, how awkward does it get? Like seeing family members you haven't seen in years and trying to engage in conversation with them? Can't stand it personaly. I guess thats christmas, social awkwardness combined with alcohol and too much food. Explains a lot"

Project Wolverine doesn't have any gigs lined up in 2010 as of yet, alas he always finds somewhere to play! If you are reading this and know of any open mic nights or gigs he would be perfect for then contact him on his myspace: www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic

MERRY CHRISTMAS GUYS :)

Project Wolverine wacks out some more tunes!

2009-12-16T22:53:00.002Z

One of the greatest things about this guy is his effortless songwriting skills; you can always guarentee a song out of him!

BRAND NEW IN THE WORLD OF PW:

Snap Election: This track is slightly more blues than his previous numbers, he's also tried out a different guitar sound to his usual acoustic malarky, wacking on a little bit of distortion. Alas, this is probably the most political number he's written so far - slating 'The Sun' for turning their political views towards the Tories. More than ever PW is driven by his passionate political opinions, which ultimately shine through in his vocals, which are sounding more vulnerable than ever.

Sonny Boy: It's lovely to see PW squeeze some more piano tunes out of himself; it really shows his development as an artist. It's very contrasting to 'Snap Election' - it's far more melancholic than 'snappy' - but it's a lovely new song for his repertoire.

So go on his myspace (www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic) and have a listen!

EQUINOX NEWS

2009-12-15T22:23:00.001Z

You've heard me babble about this band before - well, guess what, Equinox has made some epic changes! Sian Magill (Lead Vox/Acoustic), Chris Francis (Lead Guitar), Ollie Goddard (Drums/Percussion) will be replacing John Donovan (Lead Vox/Lead Guitar) and Josh Ringsell (Drums)!

Want to hear a sneak preview? Have a little listen to this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nK-zsUFRYuQ! It's not exactly professional camera work but it's a very encouraging start to this newly reformed band! I, for one, am very excited about this new development!

For more information on Equinox, go on their myspace (www.myspace.com/equinoxthebandmk) or/and join their facebook group!

PIPPA SAYS...

2009-11-27T00:31:00.002Z

LAUNCH TIME!

There's a lot of undiscovered talent out there, we walk among them everyday completely unaware; I hope that "Pippa says" will change this. Alas, I am not naïve enough to believe that I can change the world but I hope to change someone's world. Right now I am 17 years old and living in Milton Keynes; the new "city" with a hell of a lot of people that really deserve a break.

So far you will find reviews on Project Wolverine, Graveline, Equinox and an Open Mic night, but, alas, there are plenty more to come, like Craig Short and his awesome photography! So follow follow follow, read read read and comment comment comment on what I have to say!

So, without further ado, I introduce "Pippa says"; a place for you to discover the undiscovered.
P x

taken by Siobhian Palmer

http://www.risecalifornia.daportfolio.com/

Open Mic Night

2009-11-27T00:13:00.001Z

What happens when an Open Mic Night completely fails? We dim the lights and have a sing-song!

But first we have a listen to the only musician who showed up!

In this case... David Foster! (and yes, his favourite drink is Fosters!)

David is not new to the music scene, he was the singer in faceless joker a few years back. This gig marked his return, I'm just sorry that not many people were able to be there for it. Nevertheless, he embraced us with his acoustic style, playing us some covers. His rendition of "Breakfast at Tiffany's" by Deep Blue Something and "Wherever you will go" by The Calling were my favourites; I always find it really comforting when songs make artists vulnerable and on this occasion it created a sociable atmosphere among the audience. By the end of his set, we used him as a human jukebox where he went on to play "Half the world away" by Oasis and "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen because it's the "acoustic thing to do".

As the evening peeked, we felt a campfire moment was about to happen so we dimmed the lights, sat in a circle and had a bit of a sing-song. At first, David was accompanying us with his guitar, which surprisingly kept all 10 or so of us relatively in tune, but then we thought we'd have some real fun with "Wimoweh", as in "In the jungle the mighty jungle...". This proved to be quite a challenge because of my incapability to stop laughing (which is a known speciality of mine that many who have met/will meet me can, without doubt, agree with).

All in all, despite the complete failure of the original plan, it was a night that I won't be forgetting for a long time and I would like to thank everyone who came, especially David Foster and his musical talents, for this. To all those who didn't; come next time! We have the venue; use it to show yourself off!

If anyone is interested in showing their stuff at the City Church Cafe (courtesy of Make a Difference), email me at pippasays@hotmail.com

Also, go onto the Make a Difference website and see what else you can do http://www.mad-uk.org/

Equinox

2009-11-26T22:56:00.001Z

They're young, they're popular and they sound a little bit like Muse; sound familiar? Yes, that's right, this is Equinox!

Made up of drums, bass, keys, guitar and vocals, Equinox has quickly become a very familiar name in the MK music scene. They're always trying something new, whether it is a new synth sound or backing vocals, creating a distinction between each song, which is a rare quality found in young bands. Up on their myspace right now is a brand new demo so get yourselves on there and have a listen! www.myspace.com/equinoxthebandmk

SONGS TO LISTEN OUT FOR:

1. Seasons is a real pop song: Very appropriate for summer festivals! In some ways it reminds me a little of Oasis with the guitar distortion and vocal sound and the overall sustained feeling of the song. Whether you like Oasis or not, listen to the song because it's great!

2. Find and replace: A real indie track and one the catchiest of their tunes!

3. I'm not listening: Different to their other songs, 'I'm not listening' has a real focus on the instruments, particularly the synth, which really kick starts the song. The vocal melody is repetitive but this isn't necessarily a flaw because it's more of an instrumental song; in a way the vocals are there to remind you of that.

So go on their myspace or take a night out to go to one of their gigs and give them a listen. www.myspace.com/equinoxthebandmk

Graveline

2009-11-24T22:55:00.002Z

Into punk/rock/metal? In the mood for a bloody good time? Ladies and gentleman... I give you Graveline!

I'm sure whoever have seen this band will agree with me that Graveline really can put on a show. I've seen them at the Kings Head (www.myspace.com/thekingsheadbucks) in Buckingham and Madcap (http://www.madcap.org.uk/), both times they were awesome. To me, they proved that however big or small the venue is you're always guarenteed an energetic vibe.

One thing that I absolutely love about this band is just how tight they are, even through the epic amount of distortion you can hear that every member knows exactly what they're doing and how they fit into the the music. Their whole rock'n'roll attitude is also a great thing about them because they really are very genuine about it. I'll never forget when they opened their set at the Madcap Halloween gig by using the curtains; their entrance was so simple yet so eye catching; it was then when I realised that they really are born headliners!

For more information about Graveline go on their myspace: www.myspace.com/gravelineuk

Project Wolverine

2009-11-23T23:02:00.003Z

Project Wolverine is a solo artist who writes original, acoustic music of life, loss, love and politics. At first he may seem dark and pessimistic but when you listen closely you recognise that his music forms a basis of simply getting on with life. For those who haven't had the pleasure of seeing this marvelous galavanter, get yourself to one of his gigs - his stage presense really reflects the mojo of his laid back music.

My all time favourite Project Wolverine song is "Pub Politics", I think it really represents the great artist that he is. In retrospect, the lyrics and music are really quite simple but there is so much more behind the meaning; a reckless political message of "We're all going to die, that's what the papers say".

Monkey Kettle named his song "Cold Baked Beans" as the "Dudebox Track of the Summer" and rightly so. This song has the potential to act as a real pessimistic anthem to many of the youths in MK; "It's £3.20 to get into town and you get there you realise there's noone around because everyone's sick of shopping sprees, everyone's sick, including me."

"Daily mail" is a real ear catcher and will get into your head, it's yet another political number arguing against the negative portrayal of youths; "All we need is some clarification that we are the future of this nation and not just another social mess on the front page of the daily mail, and the rest of the right wing press."

The majority of his music is performed on the guitar, with the exception of "Murdoch", which is played on the piano. Out of all of his songs, this one makes him seem the most vulnerable; the emotion that comes from his voice overpowers the simplicity of the piano. "You said that romance is dead..."

"Two Months Ago" is a recent Project Wolverine song and is distinctive to the other songs because of his incorporation with spoken voice into the music, when he starts to sing "Darling I need you" you can really hear the emotional meaning of the song.

Project Wolverine uses music as an emotional outlet; his work is naked and honest. He's also really developing as a musician; at the Madcap Halloween gig he performed his music with a drummer and bassist. If you ever feel the urge to sit back and listen to acoustic music, I fully recommend giving Project Wolverine a listen; his music opens up and swallows you in.

To see what I mean go onto his myspace: www.myspace.com/projectwolverinemusic