Named after the debut single by Teenage Fanclub.
This blog is all about being a music lover in Glasgow; reviews, interviews, memories, old faves, new discoveries (past and present), playlists and more. Thanks for visiting - I hope you discover something amazing you have never heard before, or that you rediscover an old favourite.
Regular features/playlists; Never Ending Mixtape / Cover Version of the Month/ Trust Me.
Insta - @everythingflowsglasgow
What a joy to watch Edwyn Collins, a master in the craft of songwriting, in such a beautiful setting last night. The gorgeous sunshine helped create a real festival vibe; t-shirts, shorts, summer dresses and shades had everyone smiling, the whole bandstand seemed to be glowing with positive vibes.
Clare Grogan, performing under the name of her band Altered Images, enhanced the vibe. Clearly delighted to be playing to a packed Bandstand, 2-years after she was initially scheduled to play with Edwyn.
Wearing a sparkly silver dress while tottering and dancing on high platforms, Grogan delighted the crowd with hits like I Could Be Happy, while mixing in new songs written with Bobby Bluebell and Bernard Butler from the forthcoming Altered Images album. The pure pop sound was blissful in the evening sun.
Don't Talk To me About Love got the whole Bandstand on their feet to dance and sing, an emotional Grogan was close to tears as she thanked everyone after. Released almost 40-years ago, Grogan highlighted that if you'd told her back then that she be playing it to 2,000 people in Kelvingrove Bandstand then she wouldn't have believed you.
Happy Birthday was beautiful, fun, catchy and euphoric pop music. And the crowd responded en mass again. Grogan wished everyone well and said she was off to get a drink to watch Edwyn, urging us to do the same.
At 9pm Edwyn's band took to the stage, followed by Collins himself, dressed in a super sharp suit and white shoes. Ever the mod. The crowd stood and cheered as one, a warm ovation for a truly beloved performer.
Collins directed his band straight into the pounding northern soul influenced Losing Sleep. We were standing in the very back row (before going down the front later) and I took a minute to just take it all in. What a setting for live music! Glasgow at it's very best.
Then it was into Falling & Laughing, the debut single by Orange Juice, released back in 1980 when Collins highlighted that he was 20. The Chic influenced groove is timeless, Collins poetry is beautiful
I'm not saying that we should build a city of tears
All I'm saying
Is I'm alone
Make Me Feel Again is one of my favourite songs by Edwyn. Ultra romantic, the way you turned your head, when I called your name. A sublime melody.
You can check the setlist below. Wheels Of Love was a real highlight, Dying Day was simply stunning, Simply Thrilled was simply thrilling and we decided to head to the front just in time for the start of Felicity with the crowd heartily singing the backing vocals.
Edwyn's son William came on stage to sing the brilliant pop song Into Your Eyes, another real favourite of mine. Edwyn sang the verses and then William came in to sing the soaring chorus.
And if you wanna go
Then I'll let you go now, you don't have to stay
Sometimes I get tired
And I know you've got to find your own way
I see it in the sky
I see it in your eyes
Edwyn proudly gazed at his son and then the two of them locked eyes in a a father and son moment to cherish. I got a little emotional. What a song!
Rip It Up was an absolute delight, the atmosphere down the front was electric with an age range from teenagers to a couple who may well have been in their 70's. Everyone was dancing and singing, escaping reality for a blissful moment. Edwyn felt it too, rising to his feet and waving his walking stick.
Don't Shilly Shally went down so well that the crowd were still cheering as Edwyn introduced A Girl Like You, so he had to pause and introduce it again. The ferocious guitar riff over super cool bass and beats was like an electric bolt through the audience, everyone sang the riff.
Returning for a sublime slow burning Low Expectations and a rip roaring Blue Boy, Edwyn and his band took a well earned bow to rapturous applause. What a night!
This weekend I should have been heading to the wonderful Kelvingrove Bandstand in the West End of Glasgow to see Edwyn Collins gracing the stage with his presence and songs.
Edwyn's hometown shows are always a celebration, I think this one, in the stunning outdoor amphitheatre, surrounded by the greenery of the park, would have been a little extra special.
Glasgow is particularly fond and appreciative of the work and art of Collins. A handsome and super cool devil, Collins displayed a great ear for melody, married with clever lyrics (with dashes of humour) from the very start of his career. Equally appreciative of The Velvet Underground and Chic, Collins created wonderful guitar pop with his band Orange Juice that captivated many. If those bands had inspired him to pick up a guitar, the circle was nearing completion as teenagers across the country jumped on the Sound of Young Scotland and the early Postcard Records singles to buy guitars.
It was really in the 00's that I properly fell for Edwyn's music, specifically the Losing Sleep album that was released in 2010. The title track blew me away and it sent me scurrying to explore his extensive back catalogue - a very rewarding experience.
Edwyn suffered a cerebral haemorrhage in 2005 and his recovery is documented in the 2014 film The Possibilities Are Endless. It might be due to my age (having only been 4 when Orange Juice released their debut single) but 2007 onwards is my favourite period of Edwyn's; full of incredibly personal, soulful, reflective and forthright lyrics.
Each time I watch Edwyn live, I gain even more appreciation of his talents as a songwriter and performer. The way he crafts his songs is absolutely fascinating. His wordplay is joyful, his passion and soul shines through and it sends me back to exploring his extensive body of work and his history.
And what a rich history Edwyn has. From the Postcard Record days where he would drive overnight to London with Alan Horne to rouse the media, through celebrated singles and albums with Orange Juice, to his mega hit A Girl Like You in the 90's, through to present day.
A DIY ethic and fierce work attitude is at the heart of Collins story. Whether with albums, studios, artists or labels. I love the story from the Losing Sleep album about Edwyn only allowing a day for each song with collaborators from The Cribs, The Drums and Franz Ferdinand, pushing them to create something with a sense or urgency.
Edwyn has the ability to get people dancing, pogo-ing, singing and he has the ability to warm and melt hearts with his poetry and delivery.
In many ways I think he is vastly under-celebrated, but I think that suits him just fine.
Here are 10 of my favourite songs that span Edwyn's career.
In Your Eyes
From the Losing Sleep album that saw Edwyn collaborate with a number of bands including Franz Ferdinand and The Magic Numbers. This song is with a band called The Drums and it contains an absolutely euphoric chorus. It was thrilling to hear Edwyn play this last year with his son William singing the part of The Drums singer Jonathan Pierce.
Blue Boy
Released in August 1980, Blue Boy was the second single from Orange Juice. It is positively bursting with energy, from the militant drums that lead to a burst of organ, bass and guitar. Collins spits out a couple of lines before he is into an uplifting chorus.
She wasn't listening to the sweet words
He wasn't listening to her lying tongue
He was listening to the words being sung
By the Blue Boy
The second verse contains two incredibly poetic lines (below) before we head back to the second chorus, which is completed by 1 minute 12 seconds, allowing plenty of time for the band to jam over a funky bass before the third verse and chorus are sung at pace by a frantic Collins. There is still time for a brilliant outro and its all over in under 3 glorious minutes. I can never play this song only once, I always have to play it again.
Friends told him of her young hearts passion
Down by the sea where the blue waves crashing
I Can't Help Myself
Orange Juice released a remarkable run of singles from 1980 to 1984. Listening to them back to back, their development is quite staggering. Their 1981 cover of Al Green's L.O.V.E (Love) is absolutely exquisite and I'll feature that in a forthcoming cover version of the month blog. It really highlights their influences and where they wanted to head in terms of quality and soul.
In 1982 Collins and his band released I Can't Help Myself and it's a real favourite of mine. Deceptively simple, but full of humour and clever references, this is 5-minutes that, in comparison to Blue Boy mentioned above, make you wonder if this is the same band. Have they really moved on so much in 2-years?
The additional 2-minutes of time gives Collins and his band time to stretch out with loads of great riffs, hooks, use of backing vocals and even a saxaphone solo!
I felt I had to tell the world
About you
It's 5-minutes of absolute joy.
Home Again
This absolutely melts my heart. Written and recorded before Collins cerebral haemorrhage in 2005, upon release in 2007 it took on a whole new meaning. Certainly for me and other fans. You could have heard a pin drop when he played this at Mono a number of years back.
The acoustic guitar is sublime, Edwyn's voice is incredibly gentle. He has always told stories very well, yet this time it seems even more personal, like he is speaking really directly to his audience. The little lift to when I was a boy and I heard somebody singing is just beautiful.
I'm home again
Hardly certain of my role and then
I started searching for my soul again
But there was nothing I could find
I'm home again
But I've been here before, old friends
And I know I'll be consoled again
In the past I've left behind
A Girl Like You
This is just a monster of a tune. Everything about it is perfect, the feeling, the beat, the riffs, the lyrics, the vocals, the hooks.
Collins' love of northern soul screams out from every inch of this record, as does his understanding of what makes a hit.
The song took on a life of its own. The aforementioned The Possibilities Are Endless captures this superbly. But for now, turn the speakers up, dance, play air guitar or grab something to sing into. I've included a live TFI Friday performance as well as the original video.
Losing Sleep
Edwyn lays his soul bare in this stomper of a track. This is very public personal therapy as Collins confronts his feelings in verse and chorus. The song opens with a remarkably frank chorus;
I'm losing sleep, I'm losing dignity,
Everything I own is right in front of me,
And it's getting me down, I'm losing sleep
Collins doesn't stop, it's pouring out of him, honest confessions; I'm holding on, I'm insecure, about my life, about my work . His self awareness leads to Collins giving himself a good talking to
I must believe, I must retrieve
The things I know, the things I trust
This confessional northern soul stomper is extraordinary and as Collins pours his heart and soul out, there are all kinds of delicious backing vocals going on.
Too Bad (That's Sad)
This list of 10 songs highlights how much I love Edwyn's love of northern soul and the influence on his songs. Too Bad (That's Sad), from the 2013 Understated album, has an upbeat jaunty feel and groove from the off, even though Collins is singing that he can't stay another day with you.
The little riffs are excellent and the beat is pure Motown, the guitar solo is very George Harrison.
Edwyn has written better songs, but this grabbed me on first listen and I still love it. This blog is 10 of my favourite Edwyn songs, not what I consider to be 10 of his best - although I think some are! :-)
Rip It Up
So fresh, so cool, so funky. Collins and Orange Juice introduce synths to their grooves. The squelchy synth bass groove and a simple beat underpins Chic style guitar riffs and Edwyn's voice sounds incredibly pure. The harmonies are in all the right places, Collins voice is on its own in all the right places.
Lyrically and musically playful, Collins sounds like he is enjoying being allowed to confess and also shout loud to contemporaries and the scene to rip it up and start again.
And there was times I'd take my pen
And feel obliged to start again
I do profess
That there are things in life
That one can't confess
Make Me Feel Again
Such a beautiful song, I love the guitar intro, the feel, Edwyn's voice, the beautiful structure of the song with a kind of double bridge into the chorus that is heartachingly romantic.
From the 1994 Gorgeous George LP, this is Collins in absolutely stunning form. Possibly my favourite Collins melody, the chorus is just beautiful, it flows superbly.
The way you turned your head
When I called your name
All I needs your love
To make me feel again
Don't Shilly Shally
I love the feel to this, the guitars, the playful lyrics. It's real fun guitar pop. Edwyn looks fantastic in the video, with a huge quiff and an Elvis vibe going on.
I love the build up to the conclusion as Edwyn urges lets ride this train together before going on to shout space rocket. Live he really goes for it at the end, creating a beautiful racket.
The solo acoustic rendition of this song in the film The Possibilities Are Endless sends chills down my spine. I can't find it on YouTube though so you'll need to make do with the official video.
I can't remember the last time I attended a gig at the QMU in the leafy West End of Glasgow. But last night I was reminded what an excellent venue it is as Edwyn Collins returned home to deliver a spell binding and life affirming show to fans who lapped up every minute.
Collins was backed by an oustanding 5-piece band; two guitars (Little Barrie and Andy H), bass (Carwyn Ellis), drums (Jake Hutton) and keys/saxaphone (Sean Read). Little Barrie on lead guitar was an absolute joy to watch and Collins urged him on several times through the course of the show, he seemed to be enjoying the guitarist just as much as the audience.
There was a sense of occasion to the show, the atmosphere was warm, the audience appreciative and respectful. Edwyn seemed to recognise this and his humour was on display throughout - poking fun at himself and at his rhythm guitarist who needed help from a guitar tech on several occasions.
Oh what a catalogue this maestro has at his disposal. And Collins delved deep into his songbook to play songs from start to present, new songs, classics and a few surprises as well.
Edwyn's song In Your Eyes with The Drums from his Losing Sleep album is a particular favourite of mine. I love the guitars, the flow of the song and the euphoric chorus. So it was a real delight when Edwyn's son William came out to sing the part of Jonathan Pierce. It was a lovely moment to witness, Edwyn introducing his son and asking him how he was to a shrug of the shoulders 'alright' and their voices combining towards the end was thrilling.
What Presence? was an early highlight, A Girl Like You is timeless guitar pop with a nod to northern soul and Little Barrie shone on guitar, Don't Shilly Shally fizzed with energy, It's All About You from latest album Badbea was northern punk soul, Home Again was tender and beautiful yet delivered with real vocal power, while the double blast of Blue Boy and Falling and Laughing was a delight with Collins standing to deliver them and also to take the ovation from the crowd.
The Scottish Album Of The Year Award has been such a welcome addition to the Scottish music scene, celebrating, valuing and highlighting the incredible talent and love our nation has for music.
Over 300 eligible nominations were received for the 2019 SAY Award and 100 judges each had 5 votes to produce the longlist of 20 albums listed below. Read on for full info about the cut to the shortlist.
Prior to the longlist being announced I tweeted 5 albums that I would have voted for if I was a judge. 4 of them have made the longlist! Sadly L Space's Kipple Arcadia didn't.
So I'm personally rooting for the following;
Carla J Easton - Impossible Stuff; This is a huge step forwards from my sister’s work with TeenCanteen and Ette (as much as I love both those albums), a real coming of age as a songwriter and performer. Packed with hooks, melodies, honest, clever and playful lyrics. This is the album Carla has always wanted to make. Don't just take my word -The Skinny review
Andrew Wasylyk - The Paralian; I had Andrew's last album down as a potential winner in 2018 and it didn't even make the longlist! His show at the Mackintosh Church in Glasgow last summer supporting The Pastels was sublime. A real talent with an incredible ear for music. Don't just take my word - The Skinny review
Free Love - Luxury Hits; progressing all the time on their own path, playing life affirming live shows, it was through the SAY Award that I first discovered Free Love when they were known as Happy Meals. Brilliant experimental pop. Don't just take my word - The Skinny review
Edwyn Collins - Badbea; full of energy, ideas and soul. I love Edwyn Collins, he is a national treasure, an incredible songwriter and performer. I look forward to his show at the QMU later this month. Don't just take my word on it - The Guardian review
Unlike the more celebrated Mercury Music Prize, there is no listing fee or cost to participate and the general public can 'Have their SAY' and cast a vote to influence which albums will proceed to the shortlist.
The SAY Award public vote is open from midnight on Monday 12th August until midnight on 14th August. The longlisted album with the most votes will automatically gain a place on the shortlist, as well as a guaranteed minimum prize of £1,000, It also means that this album will be in with a chance to be hailed as Scottish Album Of The Year 2019 with the winning artist receiving a £20,000 prize.
To vote - head to www.sayward.com from Monday 12th August. Anyone who votes is automatically entered into a ballot to win a pair of tickets to the exclusive invite-only SAY Award ceremony, which this year takes place at the Assembly Rooms in the heart of Edinburgh on Friday 6th September.
The winner of the public vote will join nine other shortlisted titles chosen by the SAY Award judging panel who will be selecting from;
The SAY Award Longlist for 2019 is:
1. Aidan Moffat and RM Hubbert – Here Lies The Body 2. Aidan O’Rourke – 365: Vol. 1 3. Andrew Wasylyk – The Paralian 4. Auntie Flo – Radio Highlife 5. Brìghde Chaimbeul – The Reeling 6. C Duncan – Health 7. Carla J. Easton – Impossible Stuff 8. CHVRCHES – Love Is Dead 9. Edwyn Collins – Badbea 10. Fatherson – Sum Of All Your Parts 11. Fergus McCreadie Trio – Turas 12. Free Love – Luxury Hits 13. Graham Costello’s Strata– Obelisk 14. Karine Polwart with Steven Polwart and Inge Thomson– Laws of Motion 15. Kathryn Joseph – From When I Wake The Want Is 16. Kinnaris Quintet – Free One 17. Mastersystem – Dance Music 18. Niteworks – Air Fà ir an Là 19. Sean Shibe – softLOUD 20. The Twilight Sad – It Won/t Be Like This All The Time
The 72-hour public vote opens on 12 August, closing on 14 August before the Shortlist is announced on 15 August as part of a special BBC Radio Scotlandshow from 21:00.
Developed by the Scottish Music Industry Association, 2019’s campaign is delivered in partnership with Creative Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council, YouTube Music, Harviestoun Brewery, Ticketmaster New Music, PPL, Sweetdram, The Queen’s Hall and charity partner Help Musicians Scotland.
Welcome back Edwyn Collins, it has been a while, 6-years to be precise since Understated his last LP was released. Edwyn's December show at Mono in Glasgow that year was an absolute joy. We then had the beautiful documentary The Possibilities Are Endless with accompanying soundtrack which was released in 2014.
Since then Edwyn has moved to Helmsdale on the North East coast of Scotland, building his Clashnarrow Studio from scratch and recording with bands ranging from Hooton Tennis Club to Teenage Fanclub.
It's great to have Edwyn back with his new album Badbea. I was too young for Orange Juice and it was only from Edwyn's Home Again album that was released in 2007 that I really started to form a bond with one of Scotland's greatest songwriters, digging his new stuff and digging back into his discography.
Home Again was followed by the excellent Losing Sleep which featured a string of guests including members from The Cribs, Franz Ferdinand, Magic Numbers, The Drums and Roddy Frame. The title track and the superb In Your Eyes are real favourites of mine. And then there was the aforementioned Understated.
On to Badbea. Edwyn's love of northern soul shines through, as does his humour and his wonderful ability to reflect so eloquently and poetically. There are times Edwyn reflects with a bite that goes straight to the point, and at others with beautiful melancholy. At the heart of everything there is love and hope.
Pounding drums and electric guitar usher in the opening It's All About You and Edwyn croons about the sky, the mood, the sea and the summer before leading to the chorus that you can sing on first listen. The song progresses to include horns, Chic style guitar and develop into a real groove - off to a flyer.
In The Morning is a rip roaring northern soul influenced monster containing responsive backing vocals, horns, a soaring guitar solo and Edwyn singing about his uncertainty in the morning, in the evening and in the twilight. The song has a great feel to it and flows superbly with Edwyn's vocals rising with the music as it drives to conclusion.
The reflective I Guess We Were Young is another belter, the chorus has a beautiful melody with Edwyn's band mates harmonising beautifully.
It All Makes Sense To Me slows the pace, a gorgeous acoustic number beginning with the sound of birds singing merrily as Edwyn reflects on a magical day in his life as he walks, dreams and thinks and everything makes sense. The instrumental section is lovely and Edwyn comes back in gently to repeatedly sing it all makes sense to me, it's beautiful, perfect.
The pace quickens dramatically on the punk garage guitar charged Outside with Edwyn simply stating at one point now I'm old, I don't care. Then we change direction with a bass synth, drums and handclaps starting off Glasgow to London with Edwyn singing I must admit I could not give a fuck.
Edwyn is on the train, Glasgow to London, but it's in the past. It sounds like a reflective piece on his move to Helmsdale, he was moving away from going back to reality, back to the grind. But then he sings repeatedly it's in the past, it's in the past and the song gets into a real groove.
Tensions Rising kicks in with what sounds like a nod to The Temptations Get Ready, there is a cool bass groove underpinning the song and fuzz guitar cuts loose.
Beauty is very aptly named, I played it 3 times on first listen. It is gorgeous, a slow acoustic ballad and a Collins vocal that melts the heart.
Carry on, do your thing
Look ahead, don't give in
Don't give in, don't give in
I Want You finds a psych groove that is darker than the rest of the album, I'm OK Jack is much lighter in comparison sounding almost McCartney-esque at times, while Sparks the Spark has more outstanding guitar work from Collins band which includes long term friends Carwyn Ellis and James Walbourne.
Badbea is named after a village near to Helmsdale that was built and then abandoned by crofters. The closing title track is beautifully dreamy, it has a Brian Wilson feel to it at times with Collins singing of a ruined monument to life and death.
Collins is in good form and it is fantastic to have him back. Edwyn will be playing a short set and signing his album at Mono on Tuesday 9th April while the night before sees him play Saint Lukes as part of a BBC Quay Session. I hope to make both and you can order limited signed copies from Monorail.
Photo by John Maher - blog on his Edwyn photos for the album HERE
Welcome to the 28th edition of my Never Ending Mixtape. The latest selection of songs takes the mixtape (Spotify playlist) to 700 songs!
Tunes range from 60's classics by Thunderclap Newman, The Sonics and the MC5, also Time Song by The Kinks that I had never heard before. Scotland is represented by Camera Obscura, Strawberry Switchblade, Teenage Fanclub and Edwyn Collins. There is new music from Gruff Rhys and Amber Arcades, a couple of gems from Graham Coxon, including one from the excellent Netflix series The End of the F**king World and vintage Spiritualized, Pulp, Sleepy Jackson and Cornershop.
You can access my Never Ending Mixtape by searching Spotify for Everything Flows Never Ending Mixtape or CLICK HERE
Scroll down to near the end for the latest songs, or just delve in. I personally love just clicking on shuffle and enjoying.
Thanks for checking it out.
Babies - Pulp
French Navy - Camera Obscura
Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
Since Yesterday - Strawberry Switchblade
Something In The Air - Thunderclap Newman
Kick Out The Jams - MC5
Have Love Will Travel - The Sonics
Sleep On The Left Side - Cornershop
Time Song - The Kinks
Where Did You Go - Amber Arcades
Stop Your Crying - Spiritualized
Baby I'm Just A Fool - Spiritualized
Walking All Day - Graham Coxon
Freakin' Out - Graham Coxon
Limited Edition Heart - Gruff Rhys
Guiding Star - Teenage Fanclub
Don't Shilly Shally - Edwyn Collins
Make Me Feel Again - Edwyn Collins
Fear of Flying - Teenage Fanclub
Tears Are Cool - Teenage Fanclub
Gene Clark - Teenage Fanclub
Negative Vibes - Gruff Rhys
Frontier Man - Gruff Rhys
I've mentioned Spinning Coin in a number of blogs over the last couple of years..Their short (most are under 3-minutes) melodic and heartfelt guitar tunes with fragile and soulful harmonies have won my heart.
Permo, their debut album, is set for release on 10th November on The Pastels Geographic label and I am really looking forward to it. The band recorded at Edwyn Collins Helmsdale studio in the far North of Scotland and closer to home at Green Door Studio in Glasgow. You can pre-order the rather gorgeous looking vinyl HERE
To keep the momentum going Spinning Coin have released a video for the song Sleepless, with footage taken on their European tour in June.
Chiming guitars and soulful harmonies flow and combine effortlessly. The five-piece; Cal Donnelly, Chrish White, Jack Melin, Sean Armstrong and Rachel Taylor, just gel. Like all good bands do. They make it sound fun and easy. Enjoy the video below and check the string of live dates planned - dates with Girl Ray, The Pastels and Dinosaur Jr and their album launch at Mono on 17th November.
Welcome to a second edition of the Never Ending Mixtape for September. I've been travelling by train quite a bit lately and this allows quality time to listen to music. So through August and the start of September I added more songs than normal to the Never Ending Mixtape playlist on Spotify.
There is a real indie-guitar vibe to a lot of the songs listed below. Lou Barlow is represented by Sebadoh and Folk Implosion, The White Stripes have 2 songs - the beautiful We're Going To Be Friends and the raw soulful and brilliantly titled Forever For Her (Is Over For Me), Yo La Tengo have 2, there is a cult fave by Camper Van Beethoven, Creation Records are represented, we have 3 from The Lemonheads, a beauty by The Go-Betweens, a rush of guitar pop brilliance by Sugar, some electro by Miaoux Miaoux and Happy Meals and some great new tunes I discovered by Girl Ray and The Courtneys (video at the end of the blog). Oh and Edwyn Collins is in there and Gerry Love's side project Lightships - and much, much more!
I hope you enjoy these songs. Search for Everything Flows Never Ending Mixtape on Spotify or click on the link HERE. Scroll down to discover these songs, or dive in anywhere.
Skull - Sebadoh Insinuation - Folk Implosion We're Going To Be Friends - The White Stripes Forever For Her (Is Over For Me) - The White Stripes I Heard You Looking - Yo La Tengo Autumn Sweater - Yo La Tengo Girlfriend - Matthew Sweet Low - Cracker Take The Skinheads Bowling - Camper Van Beethoven
Almost Prayed - The Weather Prophets Cut Me Deep - The Jasmine Minks Stove - The Lemonheads Into Your Arms - The Lemonheads Mallo Cup - The Lemonheads Crazy Town - Velocity Girl Spring Rain - The Go-Betweens If I Can't Change Your Mind - Sugar
Cannonball - The Breeders Pacer - The Amps Don't Shilly Shally - Edwyn Collins Stop The Clocks - Miaoux Miaoux Altered Images - Happy Meals Trouble - Girl Ray Somebody - Dream Wife Silver and Gold - Lightships 90210 - The Courtneys
The Chemical Brothers at their best with Beck, a lysergic lullaby remix of The Charlatans by Brian Jonestown Massacre, heartfelt emotion by the BMX Bandits, sublime songwriting and performance by Edwyn Collins, raw soul from the summer of love, a classic from the Hacienda and art school guitar pop by White. LISTEN HERE.
Wide Open - The Chemical Brothers featuring Beck So (Brian Jonestown Massacre remix) - The Charlatans The Unforgiven - BMX Bandits Make Me Feel Again - Edwyn Collins I Wanna Testify - The Parliaments Rhythm Is A Mystery - K-Klass Living Fiction - White
Previous Everything Flows Podcasts
Podcast #1 featuring Teenage Fanclub, David Bowie, Dr Cosmos Tape Lab, Brian Wilson, Dennis Wilson, JR Green, The Undertones
Podcast #2 featuring The Troggs, Happy Meals, Rose McDowall, The Frank Popp Ensemble, Fun Boy Three, Jo Mango and The Pictish Trail, Miaoux Miaoux, Yo La Tengo
Podcast #3 featuring Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, Sonic Youth, Marlena Shaw, Natalie Prass, November Lights, Molly Nilsson
Last night I attended the Glasgow premiere of The Possibilities Are Endless, the new film/documentary on the recovery of Edwyn Collins from a major cerebral haemorrhage in 2005.
As a fan of Edwyn's music, having seen the trailer and read Grace Maxwell's fantastic and deeply personal book Falling and Laughing - The Restoration of Edwyn Collins, I was very keen to see the film at the GFT - especially with the added bonus of a Q&A and short acoustic set afterwards.
The Possibilities Are Endless is a fascinating, beautiful, artistic and moving film, directed with thought, empathy and a real creative flair by Pulse Films.
We are placed inside Edwyn's mind as he wakes from his stroke - the confusion is evident, illustrated by shots of a young boy seemingly drowning, the wind blowing through the grass, a storm brewing, distorted and stuttering words.
There was a Q&A with Edwin, Grace and Ed from Pulse afterwards and the audience learned of how Pulse interviewed Edwyn first (with no cameras), before considering how to set the story to film. Possibly a risky tactic, but one they have pulled off superbly.
At the heart of the film lies a love story, the love between Grace and Edwyn and also that of their love for Helmsdale in the north of Scotland where they are moving to.
There are lovely scenes of them walking through a park and sharing a can of ginger beer, Grace looking on with care as Edwyn attempts to find the words he knows are in there during an interview and the pair of them laughing in a car as they drive to their beloved Helmsdale in the north of Scotland. Grace's encouragement and patience was crucial to Edwyn's recovery.
We learn of how Edwyn could only say 'The possibilities are endless' and 'Grace Maxwell' when he woke from a coma. There is a great TV interview with Edwyn and Grace that ends with Grace strumming Edwyn's guitar as he plays the chords and emotional footage of the moment he returned to the stage.
Throughout the film there are scenes of Edwyn in his Orange Juice days, at his peak (sales wise at least) with the success of A Girl Like You. These work in tandem with the scenes of Edwyn regaining his strength and skills - writing, drawing, singing and creating.
There is humour as well - Edwyn and Grace bounce of each other with real affection that you can't help but smile at times and laugh at others.
What I got from the film is that the possibilities are endless if you have love and support. Edwyn is very lucky to have a lovely partner and the help and support of family, friends and musicians. It's a life affirming film that makes you stop and take stock of your health and those that care about you. I would thoroughly recommend catching it on the big screen if possible or downloading it from iTunes now.
I last blogged about Edwyn Collins back in June following an outstanding performance at Oran Mor. In the blog I said that I would love to see him do a full stripped back acoustic set at some point.
Well the Gods must have been smiling upon me as on Saturday Edwyn travelled North to play an acoustic show for the East End Social at Glasgow Green as part of the Commonwealth Games. Not only that - it was completely free!
The team behind the East End Social must be heartily commended for the exceptional programme of music that they have curated before, during and after the Games. There have been pop up shows in Dennistoun, a Neu! Reekie extravaganza at Platform in Easterhouse, shows in teeny tiny Bowlers bar in Bridgeton, we had a full on festival at Glasgow Green over the weekend and things are due to be brought to a close in epic style at the end of August with a weekend in Richmond Park featuring Mogwai headlining one night and Optimo the second!
The blank canvas that the team were given has been coloured in beautifully; legends, innovators, cult bands, young bands breaking through and everything in between have been given a chance to demonstrate the musical talent and variety that is on offer in the city of Glasgow.
To be quite honest, it is music that has been the highlight of the Commonwealth Games for me. The East End Social is one thing, there has also been the Belle and Sebastian show at Kelvingrove Bandstand (also loads of free shows there as well as stuff by the likes of The Waterboys) and all kinds of things going on down by the waterfront at the BBC featuring the likes of Simple Minds and the gorgeous Rachel Sermanni.
I could have done with a few weeks off to try and make the most of it!
Anyway, back to Edwyn at Glasgow Green.
Edwyn was thankfully playing inside a beautiful big tent called The Playhouse. I would love to see it installed permanently on the Green, it was a brilliant venue.
What made this show extra special was the fact that we took our 3-year old daughter Zoe. It was her first full gig -quite something for a 3-year old!
There were a number of young families down the front, so we got down and grabbed a seat on the floor, the friendly crowd stood behind the young kids, allowing them the chance to sit and watch a master at close quarters.
Zoe watching Edwyn and James
Edwyn was accompanied by the guitar virtuoso that is James Walbourne and there was a clear bond between the two, despite the fact Edwyn forgot his surname; causing laughter on stage and in the crowd and becoming a running joke.
The duo opened with Losing Sleep and Make Me Feel Again, the tent was packed - due to the fact that a genuine Scottish musical legend was playing - and the rain. People were listening from outside according to friends I spoke to later.
Edwyn was in great form, getting more and more into it the longer the show went on. Home Again was exquisite; full of melody and emotion. It was my first time hearing it live since reading Grace Maxwell's book Falling and Laughing - The Restoration of Edwyn Collins. I had a little tear in my eye.
When I was a boy
Well I heard somebody singing
And I heard the guitars ringing
And it brought me home again
Home again
James was truly brilliant on the guitar, able to play anything and everything - and that is exactly what they did; delighting the crowd with Orange Juice classics Blue Boy, Falling and Laughing and Rip it Up.
Rip It Up was great fun with Edwyn egging James on and taking the mick in just the right way. The crowd loved it.
Don't Shilly Shally was brilliant and I was a proud Dad as Zoe clapped along and nodded her head.
A Girl Like You closed things in style with Edwyn humming along with the melody and congratulating James on his guitar playing.
This was a great little show. I'd love to see Edwyn play his songs in this stripped down acoustic way again in the future.
I'm just in from watching Edwyn Collins; a national treasure, a Scottish pop poet who is still producing first rate material at the age of 54 and he shows no sign of letting up.
Paul Cook from the Sex Pistols provided the beats in Edwyn's incredible band, joined by Carwyn Elle on bass, Andy H and David Page on guitars and Sean Read on keyboards. Carwyn and David also played in the support band Colorama. Page was sensational on guitar.
The band took to the stage and launched into a soulful and funky jam before Edwyn was helped on to the stage by his wife Grace; walking across with the help of a cane and taking a seat to huge applause.
Falling and Laughing opened the set in real style, raw upbeat indie guitar pop at its very best. Collins poetic pop lyrics are just beautiful.
Only my tears satisfy the real need of my heart
I resist
Fall, falling, falling again
Cause I want to take the pleasure with the pain, pain, pain
It was swiftly followed by another Orange Juice classic in the shape of What Presence and the upbeat Make Me Feel Again from Edwyn's smash solo album Gorgeous George. There was a sense of urgency about the performance.
Collins was comfortable stretching away back to the start of his career, up to the present time with a selection of material from his acclaimed Understated album and everything in between.
Understated was represented by searing versions of Understated and Dilemma and a gorgeous version of Forsooth with Edwyn owning up to ripping off the Velvets and Lou Reed.
Wheels of Love from the Hope and Despair album was a stand out from a very strong performance, the band jammed on with ease and style.
Bridge from the Texas Fever album went down well with some of the guys down the front, one of who in particular was dancing like his life depended on it.
Edwyn back in the day
One of my favourite Edwyn songs is the Motown-esque Losing Sleep which just flows superbly and the band ripped through it with Paul Cook outstanding on drums. Orange Juice were well represented throughout the set and Poor Old Soul was superb.
Collins and his band then delivered three killer songs in a row, with Collins rising to his feet to deliver them. Blueboy got more people dancing and then Rip It Up received a rapturous reception, only topped by the cheers a superb version of A Girl Like You generated.
Edwyn seemed to get stronger and more into the show the longer it went on and he was on top form, sharing banter with the crowd on several occasions.
Fan - I love you
Edwyn - I love you too
Fan - I love you more
Edwyn - I love you more, more
Edwyn left the stage to allow the band to rip it up (pun intended) and jam on at the end of A Girl Like You. I thought that might have been it, especially given the fact that Oran Mor has strict curfews.
Thankfully there was more to come.
Edwyn came back on with Carwen and David on acoustic guitars for stunning versions of Low Expectations and Home Again. Edwyn's voice was strong and true. I particularly love his upbeat pop songs but he knows how to write a heartfelt ballad as well. I'd love to see him do a full stripped back acoustic set at some point.
The rest of the band came on to race through Orange Juice fave Felicity before ending with a rip roaring version of Don't Shilly Shally. Edwyn left to a greta reception and he gave a thumbs up and said he would see us soon some time.
I hope it isn't too long. In this form and mood Collins and his band are an absolute joy and delight to watch perform. Edwyn has an incredible back catalogue and is still producing material that sits alongside his classics from years ago.
The Award really highlights the incredible diverse musical and artistic talent throughout Scotland.
The winning artist receives a cheque for £20,000 - a lot of money to some of the artists on this years shortlist and previous winners; RM Hubbert in 2013 for Thirteen Lost and Found and Bill Wells and Aidan Moffat in 2012 for Everything's Getting Older.
I'm surprised albums by Adam Holmes and Adam Stafford didn't make the cut from the long list - two beautiful albums.
The shortlist is below and the winner will be announced at the Barrowland ceremony on 19th June. Good luck to all the artists below and well done for making the shortlist.
Biffy Clyro - Opposites
Starting with a big hitter - the mighty Biffy. A double album that gave them plenty of scope to show how far they have come as a band - musically and lyrically. Biffy have a knack for writing anthems and there are some wonderful warm guitar sounds on Opposites.
Boards Of Canada - Tomorrow's Harvest
Boards Of Canada came back from the wilderness to take everyone by surprise with the release of this album. Another unique talent that produce some beautiful soundscapes that build and take the listener on a journey.
Chvrches - The Bones Of What You Believe
I blogged about this album HERE and if anything my affection for it has grown. In with a real chance and I'm sure it would be a popular choice. Pop with a cutting edge.
Edwyn Collins - Understated
I'm very fond of Edwyn Collins music and the man as an artist. Dilemma is a very strong album taking in Edwyn's fondness for Velvet's style ballads and his love of Northern Soul, also rocking out at times. Too Bad (That's Sad) was one of my faves from 2013.
Hector Bizerk - Nodoby Seen Nothing
The lyrics, humour and social commentary in some of the songs I've listened to are clever. This just isn't for me at all.
Mogwai - Les Revenants
Mogwai are in quite formidable and prolific form at the moment. Their Mogwai play Zidane show was a highlight from last summer and their latest album Rave Tapes and tour saw them in powerful and mesmerising form. They play by their rules and their rules only. Les Revenants finds them in mellow form at times with xylophones and acoustic guitars. What Are They Doing In Heaven Today? is a stunning cover song featuring Stuart Braithwaite delivering a brilliant vocal performance.
RM Hubbert - Breaks Bone
Can Hubbert follow up last years victory? He is certainly in with a chance after delivering a strong and very personal album. Hubbert's guitar playing is wonderful and unique.
Steve Mason - Monkey Minds In The Devil's Time
Following on from the wonderful Boys Outside album, Mason is in typically eclectic form. Mason's voice is lovely, he sounds like he is harmonising with himself. It is just so sing song and likeable. Mason also has a fantastic ear for a tune; be it acoustic or electronic. Monkey.... allows him the space to fully explore his talent; instrumental tracks separate the full songs. Lonely is a standout for me from a brilliant album.
The Pastels - Slow Summits
I would personally be delighted if The Pastels walked away with the prize next week. I've been into them since the early 1990's, discovering them through Teenage Fanclub and enjoying their wonderful contribution to music. The Pastels love of music shines through in their albums and Slow Summits is a real highlight from a long career. From the pure pop of Check My Heart to the melancholy loveliness of Summer Rain, to the stunning largely instrumental title track - The Pastels have produced a brilliant album.
Young Fathers - Tape 2
I bought this album after the journalist Nicola Meighan played a couple of tracks whilst standing in for Vic Galloway on Radio Scotland. They've come a long way since I first saw them playing with my sisters old band Futuristic Retro Champions. There is a real melting pot of influences encompassed in Tape 2; I hear echoes of Marvin Gaye and Massive Attack amongst others. A win for Young Fathers would really make a statement for the wonderfully rich, eclectic music scene that we have in Scotland and that the SAY Awards celebrate.
