Chalkhills Digest Volume 4, Issue 46
Date: Friday, 30 January 1998
Chalkhills Digest, Volume 4, Number 46
Friday, 30 January 1998
Today's Topics:
My First Posting
CC97 - brings out the Bonzos
chalk up another round of applause
Calling Australia
Wanted poster
Bits n' pieces
ALBATROSS!!!
The Gravy, was Brian Stevens
CC '97 Awards
Hazelnut smells
Erik Anderson/video ripoff
Message to you, Rudi
My First Post/Questions
Milwaukee Chalkhills Get-Together
Bad Testimony
Get Some Perspective.
CC'97: The Review
Chalkhills' Children orders and questions
Scratch and Sniff
Let's talk IRONY, shall we???
Another Primus XTC cover
Quelling the restless crowd
Re: Return to the Valley of the Dukes
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----------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Rhoblidnen <Rhoblidnen@aol.com>
Message-ID: <65198fdc.34ce6cca@aol.com>
Date: Tue, 27 Jan 1998 18:24:57 EST
Subject: My First Posting
Organization: AOL (http://www.aol.com)
So, here I am... At the risk of being hideously scathed for my claim, I
venture to reckon that, at 17, I am the youngest member of the Chalkhills
club. Is this true?
Sadly (or, even, happily) a lot of my present day life has been
determined by XTC. Terry Chambers was the first drummer that I consciously
heard on a record. He was also the first one that I had an opinion about (ie
that he was DAMN GOOD!) and is also the reason that I am now a drummer. Being
born in the year of the fabled Black Sea, it was the first music I remember
hearing. I believe I gained my sense of rhythm from this album when my father
used me as a ragdoll drummer, moving my limbs manically along to the music.
Terry's gated snare drum sound on Black Sea really makes the record for me.
I listened to Oranges and Lemons for a long, long while (blissfully
ignorant of the subject matter of 'Pink Thing') when it first came out. The
huge wash of sound that emanates from that album is sonically gorgeous. Andy
thinks it's cluttered. What does he know? It seems to me as though he loves
his songs right up to the point of recording them, then condemns them forever
afterwards. I disagree with him frantically that White Music is, and I quote,
"Noisy, arrogant, stark, triangular and desperate for your attention." The
triangular is probably the aspect that I most enjoy about XTC. Still, once
you've been in the studio for a few months, performed several hundred takes of
a song, overdubbed, effected etc., you know every millisecond of the song and
it no longer seems remarkable... like eating nothing but chocolate for six
months straight.
My interest wavers with XTC's progression. Call me shallow, but the
Mummer / Big Express era was a little weak for me. The music became a little
flat in my ears for some reason... I guess it was the lack of a proper
drummer.
There is a phenomenon that I have observed which governs XTC's music.
You cannot write it down. I haven't yet seen a piece of XTC guitar tab that
translates correctly. I guess we'll have to ask the writers themselves what
the hell they're doing to the stringed instruments in question.
Having lived for so long with such an affinity with XTC, I wait with
baited trousers for their next album. I haven't heard any demos (sob!) but I
am hoping it's better than Nonsuch (please, God, please) which, I must say, I
was a tad Disappointed with. I hope we're not reaching a flat era again.
>From what I have read over the past few months, it seems very promising...
roll on summer!!
Something that has quite pricked my interest is the Chalkhills Children
collection. Could anyone tell me a little more about it? From what I gather,
it's a collection (yeah) of covers by the Chalkhillians. Feel free to kill me
and my family if I'm wrong, but I'm quite interested in bunging something on
if I'm right. You could even email me privately if you're really interesting.
So, that's my first post. I hope I have said something that hasn't
appeared before. What's important is, I've let you know that I'm here.
Thanks a lot.
Rob.
------------------------------ Message-ID: <SMTPcBA3bmz0EwyC@wordsrus.demon.co.uk> Date: Tue, 27 Jan 1998 23:00:07 +0000 From: Tim Harris <wordsrus@wordsrus.demon.co.uk> Subject: CC97 - brings out the Bonzos What an excellent compilation. On the first few listens I go for Seagulls Screaming and Punch and Judy - they release the the Bonzo Dog in XTC. And the pedigree of that strident guitar line in Easter Theatre becomes clearer... its courtesy of Hello Goodbye! -- Tim Harris
------------------------------ Message-Id: <l03110700b0f41a5ea365@[146.6.72.33]> Date: Tue, 27 Jan 1998 17:24:28 -0600 From: Jason Garcia <h.h.name@mail.utexas.edu> Subject: chalk up another round of applause > It truly is the next best thing to a real XTC album >and I dub it better-than-Testimonial-Dinner. I agree wholeheartedly. I'm not thrilled about EVERY song on it, but it's a good sight better than that dreck Andy calls "Testicular Dinner". WE need to be released on a big label! My only regret is that I didn't purchase my new digital mini-disc four-track recorder until earlier this month. Otherwise, the quality might have equalled some of the other contributions. But ah well. I'm kind of hoping the apparently ill-fated "Chalkhills Originals" comp. DOESN'T come out, because the song I submitted sounds INFINITELY better now. But, ah well again. Re: Chris Difford: I always liked Tilbrook's voice better anyway. JD- you sampled some of the actual recording for the beginning of "Greenhouse", right? See yall later. Jason
------------------------------
Message-ID: <34CE74D7.10BF682@gte.net>
Date: Tue, 27 Jan 1998 13:59:20 -1000
From: Dave+Chris <davchris@gte.net>
Subject: Calling Australia
XTC content: You just saw it. But spuriously folks, my wife and I
are planning a trip down under in May/June - could any chalksters help
us out with suggested "must sees" in the Great Southern Land? Travel
tips? Am I likely to get in a fight if I say Young Einstein was great
and Reckless Kelly was crap? Right now we're planning on Hobart and then
The Kimberley using Broome as a base, which is easy to do if you have a
washtub and some string. Yeah, that was stupid but I don't get out much.
More XTC: I can't believe the things being said about Chris Difford.
Let's keep things in perspective; as much as we all obviously love Andy,
I've formed the impression that he can be a bit ... difficult is maybe a
nice word. Does anyone agree or have I sealed my fate?
Davo
------------------------------ Message-ID: <34CE99A6.1C27@umich.edu> Date: Tue, 27 Jan 1998 21:36:22 -0500 From: Rob Hill <rhill@umich.edu> Subject: Wanted poster Anyone have a clue as to where I can get the following songs: The Wheel and the Maypole Harvest Festival The Ship Trapped in Ice We're All Light Wounded Horse I Don't Want to Be Here Stupidly Happy a complete version of Playground (my version ends during the middle eight) and especially, the acoustic Train Running Low on audio I've got practically everything else by XTC, so I'll do some intensive trading for 'em, if need be. Rob
------------------------------ Date: 28 JAN 98 13:21:08 AES From: PCulnane@dca.gov.au Subject: Bits n' pieces Message-ID: <0000bhlftpzz.0000zvzxdfdn@dca.gov.au> Hi there! Firstly, in 'Hills #42, the extremely self-effacing RogerFromOz implied that I was not a dickhead but, moreover, "lovely"! Well thanx Rog but I'm pretty sure there'd be quite a few people about the place who'd sooner apply the former epithet to me! Secondly, I haven't yet heard CC97, but I do agree with Ira Lieman when he gives kudos to Simon & Linda Knight's "Summer Grass". I had the pleasure of hearing a rough mix of this track that Si played for me and it's superb. He told me that his initial idea of melding "Cauldron" with "Grass" transmogrified by accident into the form you hear, because he was having equipment problems as well as physical problems associated with a debilitating illness he is currently suffering from. If you haven't heard from Simon, that's why - he's pretty ill but, I gather, over the worst of it and on the mend. I'm sure those of you on this list who know him will join me in wishing him a speedy recovery. Suffice it to say that if "Summer Grass" is an example of what he's capable of when incapacitated, wait till you hear his new songs which he will be tackling once he's back in full swing! Thirdly, Amanda: I applaud your respect of DG's wishes by not bootlegging the "Remoulded" CD for the many who would love a copy, but would it be any hassle for you to post a tracklisting please? I for one would love to know what songs he has chosen to cover, and then perhaps some of we more elderly 'Hilldwellers can direct you to the originals as Dave urged. How about it? Fourthly, as others have acknowledged, thanx eversomuch to Mitch for his continued updates from the inner sanctum - your posts have me slobbering in anticipation every time! A question: why was such a fantastic song as Colin's "Where Did The Ordinary People Go?" allowed to fall thru the crax???? Oh well, I suppose it's some consolation to know that "You & The Clouds..." looks like making the final cut of the new album.... I hope to hear some of the newer demos sometime. Dom? :-) Thanx for reading, cheers the luvverly p@ul-of-oz
------------------------------ From: LadyCPlum <LadyCPlum@aol.com> Message-ID: <aa9a4452.34cebc06@aol.com> Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 00:02:59 EST Subject: ALBATROSS!!! Organization: AOL (http://www.aol.com) You'll have to pardon me, I've been sick for about a week, and I've had nothing to do with my time other than watch Monty Python movies! So if anyone needs either the Holy Grail or Live at the Hollywood Bowl recited front to back line for line, just come to me!!!!!!!!!!! Anyhoo, reponse time!!!!!! Catherine-All kidding aside, I think I can safely say that Dave is priceless. Ben-"Wha-wha-WHAT???" she says in her best imitation of Kyle the Little Jewish Boy's mother. Where did you hear that??? email me, so as to not degrade the list....and I think you know what I mean...... FINALLY got my hands on a copy of that darned interview that Diabetes Forecast did with Dave back in 1994. (College libraries are a wonderful thing.....) There are some great pictures of him playing the guitar and the keyboards. The article itself is mainly stuff that we Chalkoutliners already know about XTC and Dave's place in them; there are a few surprising smidgens of info regarding his condition. (Won't bore you, I'm probably the only on who cares about this kinda stuff.) And now I must be going, for it is hitting the late hour, and my Benadryl is kicking in. Cheers medears, Amanda, although.... "There are some who call me....Tim?" XTC song of the day-The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul non XTC song- (TIE) Sit On My Face-Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry GIlliam, Terry Jones & Bruces' Philosopher Song-Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Neil Innes.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 00:51:59 -0500 (EST)
From: Sean Hennessey <suggs@tiac.net>
Subject: The Gravy, was Brian Stevens
Message-ID: <Pine.SUN.3.95.980128004229.6727A-100000@sunspot.tiac.net>
Hey all,
How funny to hear this mentioned on this list, as, 1) I was the original
drummer in the Gravy (though i'm not on the album, that was actually
recorded before the Gravy was formed, with the members of the band
actually only guesting on bits), 2) Todd Spahr of both the Gravy and The
Cavedogs was my roommate and was the one who taught me how to play
Respectable Street on guitar, and 3) I'd forgotten about the XTC link.
I have to blame Todd for making me quit the Gravy, after learning
Respectable Street, I re-wrote it about ten times, formed another band
called Tweety UK, and went on to anonymity! :) Hell, it's a brilliant
riff...
It becomes a Three Degrees of Separation from one of my favourite bands,
with all the links, I've still never met any of XTC! :)
Actually, though, I'm not a big fan of Brian's solo stuff, though I can't
say why as I'm such a pop fan. I can whole heartedly recommend the
Gravy's stuff, and will strongly recommend researching the now defunct
Poundcake, featuring Mark Rivers. Possibly one of the best drummers I've
seen from Boston.
Now I look forwards to telling Todd he was mentioned on this list! (BTW,
go to the QDivision web page for sound bites and stuff from all of them).
tara - Sean
This message copyright 1997/98 Sean Hennessey. All rights reserved.
*******************************************************************************
Sean Hennessey, President of the Boston Reds,
an 'unoffical' Manchester United Supporters' Club
url: http://members.tripod.com/~boston_reds/red_army.html
email: suggs@tiac.net *Bassist: Slippy Keane*
------------------------------ Message-Id: <199801281418.JAA13408@gw33t.fmr.com> From: "Sawyer, Keith" <Keith.Sawyer@fmr.com> Subject: CC '97 Awards Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 09:17:57 -0500 Chalkhills Children '97 is a fantastic effort! A big thanks to Richard Pedretti-Allen for pulling it all together. I'm ashamed to stay that I was quite surprised by the level of musicianship displayed on the tape - it's enjoyable all the way through and each effort has its own sonic pleasures. But now that I've made the bow & scrape to good manners (though the plaudits to all featured on CC '97 are well-deserved) allow me to fabricate my own personal awards: MOST INNOVATIVE - Summer Grass by Simon Knight & Linda Cochrane. The idea of overlaying Summer's Cauldron and Grass onto one consistent canvas at first might inspire only a cringe ... but it's pulled of magnificently here. The peaky naive delivery of Linda contrasts beautifully with Simon's laid-back (pleurative?) vocals, and the alternation of lines creates a portrait of a couple with slightly different perspectives on a shared period of time. Yet the light, almost winsome tone wraps perfectly around the song's idealization of memories. AUDIENCE (OF ONE) FAVORITE - Easter Theatre by Jason Garcia. I absolutely adore the switches from smooth, crisp pop execution in the verses to lo-fi guitar bliss during the chorus. The song builds, wanes, then beckons for repeat rides like a massive rollercoaster. More infectiously enthusiastic that Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)! Really! MOST PROFESSIONAL SOUNDING - Down a Peg by Randy Christopher. No lie, after listening to this one I was checking the credits again to make sure this wasn't a Jason Falkner or Brendan Benson out-take. Incredibly crisp, with perfectly timed overdubs and an irresistible sing-along delivery. MOST INTERESTING TAKE - Wrapped in Grey by Peter Fitzpatrick. The use of the orchestral samples, *especially* the wafting oboe, transform this song into a Humperdinck-ish 70's love ballad. Strangely enough, it turns out to be entirely appropriate - both affecting and amusing. Runner up in this category goes to Ed Miller's guitar riff and harmonica addition to the chorus of The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead - it adds a winsome and almost folkish heart to the tale. BEST USE OF TAPE-HISS - Dead Madam Barnum by Ira Lieman. Hell, it's an accompanying instrument, why not credit it in the liners? All winners can come to the front of the auditorium to claim the keys to their new Buick. One final hooray goes to the art design and execution of the cover by Richard and Harrison Sherwood ... a perfect parody of Go-2 in both tone and look! keith
------------------------------ From: "Dr. Foulger" <damian@ceolasers.com> Organization: Cutting Edge Optronics, Inc. Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 08:52:14 -0600 Subject: Hazelnut smells Message-Id: <19980128085315.08c95997.in@ceo.ceolasers.com> Patti wrote: > When I hear the song "Ten Feet Tall", I immediately smell "Hazelnut"!!! :) > Don't ask me why....I just do! I guess this would be called synesthesia. (This is where sense are mixed up and seeing something may conjure a smell or sound, or hearing something may conjure a sight or smell, etc.) This begs the question: Does anyone else 'suffer' from synesthesia and what do they smell, taste, see when listening to XTC. I think that the occurance of synethesia in the general population suggests that there will only be one synesthete amongst us. Dames tWd * ------------------------------------------------ 'People will always wipe their feet on anything with welcome written on it.' - AP
------------------------------ From: sharedon@mbcc.mass.edu Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 10:08:18 -0500 Message-Id: <98012810081850@mbcc.mass.edu> Subject: Erik Anderson/video ripoff In answer to the recent request, many Chalkhillians were ripped- off by Erik Anderson. You can reach him as below: Erik Anderson 88 - 24th Street East Saskatoon, Sk. Phone: (306) 975-7811 fax (306) 975-2612 Erik Anderson, City Archivist, e-mail aa393@sfn.saskatoon.sk.ca Hours from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Monday to Wednesday.
------------------------------ Message-ID: <c=US%a=_%p=SELECT_Software_%l=SELECT_OX_MAI-980128154644Z-1058@select_UK_mail.selectst.com> From: Catherine Sweeney <CatherineS@selectst.com> Subject: Message to you, Rudi Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 15:46:44 -0000 Actually, message to C Wright. I can't get through to you via mail as it does not recognise your address. However, there's something in the post for you, which should have reached you by the time you read this digest. Sorry for using space in this way, but it's my last resort. Cheers.
------------------------------ From: suzanne_cerquone@stercomm.com Message-Id: <9801288860.AA886008446@mail.autocatalog.com> Date: Wed, 28 Jan 98 12:27:16 -0500 Subject: My First Post/Questions Hi Everyone, I'm new to this list by a week, and just kicking myself for not finding Chalkhills sooner! It looks like a great place. And because I'm so new, I am curious about the "Chalkhills Children 97" tape. Can someone fill me in off-list? Thanks. I'd be interested in purchasing if I knew more about it. I'm also interested to see how many XTC fans here bought the album by H (Steve Hogarth), "Ice Cream Genuius." And did you enjoy it? I am a big Marillion fan, so it was a given that I would buy it. But I was certainly tickled beyond belief to see Dave Gregory on the album. And in case you didn't hear, the H band played four solo gigs last year in Europe; each time playing "Senses Working Overtime." I didn't see the shows, as I live in the US, but would have loved to! And in talking with Hogarth last year during the Marillion tour, he spoke in gushing terms of Dave Gregory and their musical partnership. Turns out they used to meet at pubs in England to discuss the "current affairs of music," which then brought about some recording in Milan, where H bought Dave ice cream a lot, in thanks for his great musical ideas for the album. Sounds like it was a fun album to make. --Suzanne (Philadelphia)
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 13:03:17 -0600
Message-Id: <v02110101b0f4dd1c6437@[144.92.210.149]>
From: jhackney@facstaff.wisc.edu (John M. Hackney)
Subject: Milwaukee Chalkhills Get-Together
Hello,
This is basically a message to Kate from Milwaukee regarding a
get-together of Chicago/Wisconsin Chalkhillians: Kate, e-mail me privately
regarding this possibility and please present your e-mail address clearly.
I was unable to succeed in sending you a message at the address included in
your last posting to this group.
John
------------------------------ Message-ID: <83E2048D.C2AA85E@corp.home.net> Date: Wed, 06 Jan 1904 20:18:21 +0000 From: dfriel@corp.home.net (David Friel) Organization: @Home Network Subject: Bad Testimony So I just picked up a copy of "A Testimonial Dinner" recently and...does anyone share my opinion that most of the renditions on this album are pretty weak? Let's have a blow-by-blow analysis, shall we? - Freedy Johnston: Earn Enough for Us - who asked this corn fed from Kansas to contribute this completely mediocre piece of schlock anyway? It sounds like he did it in one take without putting any thought into how to make it sound like something worthy of putting on a tribute album to our musical heroes! And who, for for the love of god, decided this should be the opening track of the album??? Blah! - Spagehog: Senses Working Overtime - I hated these guys the first time I heard their "hit" on the radio last year. Their version of Senses makes me hate them even more. I'd like to strangle their lead singer until he regurgitates his vocal chords so we never have to listen to his annoying, horrific voice again. - Crash Test Dummies: All You Pretty Girls - see Spacehog review - perhaps the lead singers of these two pathetic bands are cousins. - The Verve Pipe: Wake Up - one of the few shining moments on the album. At least they did something original with the song. When I put the CD in, I listen to this one, which is my stamp of approval and more than I can say for a majority of the songs. - The Rembrandts: Making Plans for Nigel - I don't ever want to hear another remake of this song! The Primus version left a bad taste in my mouth to begin with, so why did this band have to do an almost identically poor cover? - Sarah McLachlan: Dear God - was this her attempt to even the score with Joan Osborne for her hit, "God" (or whatever it's called). It's not terrible, but I don't listen to it, and she definitely could have rocked it up a little more. - Ruben Blades: The Man who sailed Around his Soul - Again, one of the few shining moments on the album. Like The Verve Pipe, I appreciate the fact that he did something original with this one. He really seemed to capture the essence of the sorta beatnikesque flavor of the song, but in a Latin kinda way. This version rocks, and I'm glad the producer, David Yazbek, had the sack to put this one on the album, perhaps to atone for Space Hog, Crash Test Dummies etc. P. Hux: Another Satellite - Without a doubt, the most fucking horrendous song on the album! I can't believe this piece of shit was even allowed on! I dunno how any band could've done less justice to this excellent song, one of my XTC favorites. It sounds like the result of a piss-poor garage band with no musical talent. I'm not too familiar with this band, but I'm guessing their original tunes suck, too. They Might Be Giants: 25 O'Clock - Very good. Makes me want to listen to more of their stuff. Like Ruben Blades, I think TMBG captured the essence of this song, and although it sounds a bit too similar to the Dukes' version, it's still very worthy of my ear. Terry & the Lovemen: The Good Things - Absolutely the best song on the album, in my humble opinion - the reason I bought the album in the first place. I first heard the song on a tape of the "Rock over London" interview with Andy in which they played this song. I've never heard the original version of this song (does anyone know how I might get a copy?), as I guess it's a pretty rare "b side." At any rate, I love the guy's Colinesque voice, and I'm amazed that he did everything on the song except play drums. Sign these lads up as the opening act on the forthcoming XTC tour ( a double shot of wishful thinking???) Joe Jackson: Statue of Liberty - Not bad, & I'm a pretty big Joe Jackson fan, but sounds too much like something off "Night and Day" with the underlying rhythm/percussion thing going on. I think he could've done a better version of a different XTC song Thank you for your patience. Had to get this off my chest, plus I haven't written anything for a good long while. Feel free to lambaste me with your comments. You're glad I'm back, aren't you?? Ba! Ha! - Dave in San Francisco
------------------------------ Message-ID: <34CFB0B7.598D@virgin.net> Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 22:27:03 +0000 From: peter.wright2@virgin.net (peter.wright2@virgin.net) Subject: Get Some Perspective. Dear Chalks, I always thought what separated this XTC forum from the likes of an Aqua or Backstreet Boys fanzine was our ability to weigh up the facts and come to some kind of fair and unbiased evaluation. Lately , however ,it seems some of us have become unable to bear anyone or anything that dares to say anything against our boys. Examples : 1) Chris Difford. This is a genuine down to earth guy who happens to be one of the most talented lyricists of a generation and a nice bloke too. None of us at Chalkhills know whats gone on between he and XTC yet we immediately get several posts slagging Difford off in the assumption that he MUST be the guilty party in all this. The guy is trying to run a business and hes protecting his own financial arse by holding the master tapes back. We would all probably do the same in his position. So until we know exactly whats gone on and heard both sides of the story , lets leave him alone. If all I know about him is true, hes probably dying to hear a new XTC album too !! 2) Richard Branson. Somebody recently posted here that they hoped Bransons balloon would come crashing down in flames with him aboard. Now, isn't this slightly over-reacting ? What has Branson done to deserve this vitriol ? Do you think he woke up one morning , thought "what can I do today "? "I know ...I'll kick XTC off the label !! At the time XTC were dropped, Branson had relinquished all control of Virgin music and was totally wrapped up in Virgin Air. If you have to blame somebody, find out who the cretin was at Virgin who actually decided to drop XTC. I really don't think Branson should be at all crucified. Also, lets not forget that Virgin continued to finance XTC for years when most other labels would have dropped them for lack of sales. They should get some credit for that even though they made a total mess of it at the end. Incidentally , I would point out that I do not and never have worked for Virgin . They are simply my internet service provider !! Heres to the whole mess being sorted out amicably and that new XTC album taking up residence in all Chalkers CD players very very soon. PS. Hi Cheryl !! Yours without predjudice, Pete.
------------------------------ From: MARKROCKS <MARKROCKS@aol.com> Message-ID: <d0ad4ce7.34cfb5f6@aol.com> Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 17:49:24 EST Subject: CC'97: The Review Organization: AOL (http://www.aol.com) Chalkhillbillies: While some may argue my right to do so, I decided to take on the arduous task of reviewing Chalkhills Children '97. Why? I guess I'm just a frustrated Dave Marsh, only kinder. Perhaps it's just that I'm not talented enough to perform, but I still want to be involved. Whatever the reasons, here goes! (Warning: If you don't want to hear potentially critical comments about your CC contribution, use that page down key now. But I'm really not that harsh, I promise. Warning #2, it is a bit lengthy) Side A: Reel by Reel: Harrison captured the essence of what this song would have sounded like if it had been recorded circa White Music! Can you say hyper? I love it! But Harrison, where's the friggin guitar solo? (j/k) Walks like a duck? I never knew that's what they said.. Summer Grass: Simon & Linda win the award for the most creative arrangement, hands down. The first time I heard it, I was only half listening, and I thought something was amiss. But on further listening, it has grown to become one of my favorite tracks. Easter Theatre: A very accurate reproduction of the demo. Jason, you sound quite a bit like Andy. Muffled production on the lyrics were a bit disappointing. I always thought it was my dub, but maybe that's just they way it is supposed to sound. Down A Peg: Now here's a song I've heard of, but never heard before. So, no commentary on it's accuracy, but musically and vocally it works for me. A fun little ditty, played well. Great singing Randy. Blue Overall: Another place were the production quality was disappointing. The keyboards were nice, but the vocals were too quiet. Sorry Eric, but this was probably my least favorite on the tape. Then again, it is still miles better than _anything_ I could have put on record, so who the hell am I to say! Dear Madam Barnum: Nine letters, Ira: TMBGdoXTC. If only that was an accordian instead of circus calliope. Of course, that sound is truly fitting for the circus theme of the lyrics. Seagulls Screaming: Was it me, or is there something funky going on with these vocals. Forchrissakes, it almost sounds like these people are singing in JAPANESE! (j/k) Seriously, another very clever production. And the wave sounds, uke and recorder are just awesome. This may be one of the best tracks on the tape, musically. Killer production quality too! Traffic Light Rock: Elvis lives, thank you very much. Nothing much else to say on this one. Dear God: I expected the instruments to kick in after the first verse, but didn't really miss them when they didn't. The echo effect may be just a bit overdone. You have a great voice Jennifer, no need to hid it as much as it was hidden on this track. Toys: Another great track! Excellent vocals and production, Steve. And real trumpets and saxophone, you say? I didn't think anyone bothered these days. This is the real deal. Side B: Peter Pumpkinhead: Very pretty version. Great guitar work, great vocals. A very solid tune, one of the best on the tape. Life is Good in the Greenhouse: I recall a discussion some time ago on this list about what songs Trent Reznor would cover if he covered XTC. It seems that discussion inspired this deep, dark (but lower on the BPM) version of Greenhouse. Wrapped in Grey: More pretty stuff here from Peter. Strong vocals, nice orchestration. Gotta ask other the liner note though. All drums are from sample libraries, but all precussion is _real_? Aren't drums precussion? Great harmonizing on the _do do dos_ at the end. Punch and Judy: I think this wins for the most clever vocal track. The vocals sound like a real puppeteer from a Punch and Judy show. I especially liked the whispered _Who do we know dear..._ followed by that evil sneer. Bonus points for the hand drill! The Mole From the Ministry: The pacing was a little slow and the vocals were a little muddy for my tastes. Yet that somehow made it sound more like the White Album Beatles tracks the original attempted to forge. One of the Millions: Dave! The acoustic that kicks off the track sounds like a sample. Dead on. Lyrics are close too, but just a tad flat, IMHO. The backing vocals rock, though. Snoman: OK, maybe I'm biased becuase this is the song that really got me hooked on XTC in the first place, but I really dig this version. Very true to the original, yet somehow your own at the same time. Great drums, I love the plinky piano sound. And don't forget that Mid-eastern drum/keyboard coda. If push came to shove, I might have to tag this track my favorite. Over Rusty Water: Spaceeee, baby. The liner notes do a fair job of describing it better than I can. _Eight improvised, haphazard, blind guitars recorded serially with distortion, chorus, reverb,echo & total absence of production forethought. Assembled later on a PC._ Sure Harrison didn't write that blub for you Richard? Final thoughts...the sampling at the bookends of the tape were very cool. And I thouroghly enjoyed the cover art. If you'd care to see another take on that concept, check out my lame AOHell site at http://members.aol.com/markrox/home.html. End plug here. An accomplishment that all involved should be very proud of. Special thanks to Richaed, Peter, Harrison and every musican who contributed. I'm sure Andy, Colin and Dave would be impressed. Hope you enjoyed my takes on yours takes. And I hope I didn't either offend of bored the pants off anyone. Mark XTC song of the day - Snoman non-XTC song of the Day - Furniture Music - Bill Nelson
------------------------------ Message-Id: <72EDB966944AD1118DC90080D82074882BC34F@ex-campus2> From: "Pedretti-Allen, Richard" <Richard.PedrettiAllen@octel.com> Subject: Chalkhills' Children orders and questions Date: Thu, 29 Jan 1998 14:07:22 -0800 January has been hell and now Mr. Relph references Yogi Bear!! (...more savvy than the average bear...) ...and now I can't get Meccanik Dancing out of my head! Pic-a-nic basket HEY BOO-BOO! Pic-a-nic basket OH WE GO! To all who have written recently, I am back and will get to your mail very soon. (no XTC content for the next two paragraphs) I said I was off to attend my father's funeral and that was the truth as he was not expected to last the week. Well, things got worse. He came out of the coma with brain damage and spouts endless blather that, if it had a remote rhyming structure, could be Steely Dan lyrics. He is nuts and aggressive and this has been very hard to watch and address but he had to be put away. I now have a much clearer understanding of the value of Dr. Kevorkian. Anyway, there is good news! I am not facing a hip replacement! (No, I'm not THAT old... it's complications from a car crash.) It doesn't even look like surgery will be needed! Still hobbling but as long as the vultures don't start circling, I'm okay. Blah, blah, blah... and the suns in my eyes and my shoe's untied... To others that may be interested in the Chalkhills' Children tapes, please visit the website if you have a browser. http://chalkhills.org/product/ If not, I can reply with the information. Cheers, Richard
------------------------------ From: Xtckinks@aol.com Message-ID: <613c0d2b.34d127dd@aol.com> Date: Thu, 29 Jan 1998 20:07:39 EST Subject: Scratch and Sniff PTBrookie said: >>When I hear the song "Ten Feet Tall", I immediately smell "Hazelnut"!!! :) >>Don't ask me why....I just do! Boy!!! Talk about Senses Working Overtime!!!!
------------------------------ From: LadyCPlum@aol.com Message-ID: <98941dfd.34d13100@aol.com> Date: Thu, 29 Jan 1998 20:46:38 EST Subject: Let's talk IRONY, shall we??? And so goeth the tale....(another in a long line......) The guitar book that I sent Gregsy wasn't the one I had intended to send, but since I coulnd't find the one I was going to, I got him one I thought he'd like anyways. Well today I found the one I was going to buy him, and since I enjoyed glossing over the one I HAD bought him, I bought THIS one for myself. (Confused yet?) So I was at home looking over all the really cool pictures, when I came across this caption underneath a pic of a non reverse body GIbson "1966 III with three P90s and the standard slide select switch. Owned by XTC's Dave Gregory." Isn't it ironic? Don't ya think? Anyhoo, turns out four of Dave's guitars are featured in the book. Neato! -LCP
------------------------------ Message-Id: <3.0.3.32.19980130131939.0069ca18@mail.clemson.edu> Date: Fri, 30 Jan 1998 13:19:39 -0500 From: Adam Tyner <ctyner@CLEMSON.EDU> Subject: Another Primus XTC cover I just read on Music News Wire that Primus is covering "Scissorman" on an upcoming EP that's due out this spring. You might remember their interesting cover of "Making Plans For Nigel" from their 1992 EP "Miscellaneous Debris". TTYL, -Adam
------------------------------ Message-ID: <c=US%a=_%p=AETNA%l=HFD-EXCH003-980130190439Z-37343@aetna.aetna.com> From: "Witter, Karl F" <WitterKF@aetna.com> Subject: Quelling the restless crowd Date: Fri, 30 Jan 1998 14:04:39 -0500 Now, to quell the overwhelming response to my quiz: A *moonraker* is somebody who is thought to be an idiot. It is an insult to Wiltshirite intellect by the unknowing, and originated this way: One night some excise agents came around unexpectedly, surprising a few Wiltshire smugglers, who had no time to do anything but toss their brandy casks into a pond. To cover up, they started raking at the water. When asked what they were up to, they replied "We're raking at the cheese", from the moon reflected on the pond's surface. The king's men thought them just a little daft, and went away none the wiser, leaving them to gather up their brandy in peace. *Leucippotomy* is the cutting of horse images from chalk. Crowding out important knowledge with the likes of *this*, Karl "If I didn't know better, I'd say *Be Here Now* is, without a doubt, the Rutles' finest record." (Mark Athitakis, Salon Magazine, www.salon1999.com.)
------------------------------ Message-ID: <d5gW+TAQWn00Ew5L@emdac.demon.co.uk> Date: Sat, 31 Jan 1998 00:51:28 +0000 From: Phil Hetherington <phil@emdac.demon.co.uk> Subject: Re: Return to the Valley of the Dukes Someone whose name this computer hasn't copied into my mail when I hit 'reply' and shall therefore remain anonymous said: >The Dukes have made a comeback ; well, sort of as the chips CD is back in >the usual record shops along Oxford St., London as well as the very >excellent Selectadisc on Berwick St. If you want it there it is, go and get >it, you'd better hurry I _think_ the ones in HMV, Virgin et al are Geffen imports, which there seems to be no shortage of at the moment, but the copy in Selectadisc is a Virgin original and has been there for some time. Don't know whether there's any difference with this one (having only got the Virgin copy), though the Virgin copies have been considered superior for one or two of the other albums. Actually if you know where to look you can usually find Dukes vinyl around London... Congratulations to all concerned for CC97; some comments to follow when I've taken it in properly. Just out, the new High Llamas album 'Cold And Bouncy' and also, finally, the reissue of the first one 'Santa Barbara'. This seems to be a marketing cock-up to me, as my first impression is that 'Santa Barbara' is better! But then, I have weird taste, so don't take any notice of that. They're both great. Phil PS: Thanks to you-know-who-you-are for 'The Rhythm' bootleg... -- _ |_) |_ * | My web page: http://www.emdac.demon.co.uk/phil/ | | ) | | Shriekback web pages: The above + shrkindx.html ===========
------------------------------ End of Chalkhills Digest #4-46 ******************************
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