The internet is back on at home, which means a lot more to me than it should - I rely on it too much. Did a couple hours in the office, then picked up dad for his final radiotherapy session (for now). He's had a tough run of it, today it was clear he was far from well but with a little spark returning.
Then off to host the MegaFastQuiz in Cambridge. The format changed just before the show, having had a better idea, and it works a treat. Some of the locals are tossers, though, and that was in danger of ruining it for everyone. I was a bit angry on stage tonight, not for the first time recently, and that needs to stop - nice Paul needs to return, angry Paul can go and calm down in a corner. It's just...if you put effort into putting something together, and some drunks at the bar want to disrupt it, well...that's just rude isn't it? I've also started to realise the power I have on stage though - I'd never shout at anybody in real life, but on stage for some reason I'm really enjoying it, it's like a license to vent.
Anyway, anger aside, this format works so well. I need to change the venue for future performances, but this does have 'fringe show' written all over it. Uh oh...
Tuesday, 30 June 2015
Monday 29th June 2015
Work seem stroppy about my lack of availability, yet that
was the deal in the first place – I'm a freelancer. Hhmmm. Mustn't forget my
artistic credentials; I quit my job for this after all.
Did the Speed Awareness course in the afternoon, surprisingly
informative and even, dare I say it, enjoyable. Shame it's another 3 years
until I'm allowed to do it again...
Evening in, wrote the questions for tomorrow night's
MegaFastQuiz, and worked on the format for it. This was one of those projects that
I agreed to take on when things were quite quiet, but now they're crazy, but
you know what...I think this one is going to be quite exciting. Will confuse
the shit out of the locals, though.
And then did some more work on the 'Make or Break...' show, having
now confirmed Young Chinners to play guitar for the show for the first week of
it, which is a relief.
Sunday 28th June 2015
There was of course a logic as to why we were staying in
Newbury; it's halfway down to Poole, where we were playing today. Got up far
too early, Vikki made us, she was probably right but still – that felt tough.
Glad Gaf is driving, he's the most sensible person in the band. Found Poole in
good time, lovely place, amazing idea for a festival – just loads of bands
playing up and down the river, but not in a busking way, in a really well
organised way with great soundguys. We had 2 sets, on different stages.
Set for the first gig: Take a Ride, Fine Life, Face in the
Water, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, California for
a Girl, Shut Up and Dance, Somebody to Love (cover).
With a few hours to kill we ate fish by the sea, played
crazy golf and hung out in the arcade...it's great being in a band, isn't it?
Set for the second gig: Take a Ride, Fine Life, Face in the
Water, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, Never Mind,
California for a Girl, Shut Up and Dance, Somebody to Love (cover), Beautiful
You (encore)
That was the first time we've played Never Mind live, the
ending feels uncertain but the rest of it is awesome. Also a good run-out for
the other new tracks; Bluebird and California, both of which are sounding
great.
Should have been home by 9pm, but every road was shut, as is
typical. Got home just before midnight.
Saturday 27th June 2015
A lie-in, an actual proper lovely lie-in this morning; my
body needed it. Dowsing rehearsal (with choir) was lovely, I always feel very
welcome, and the set is coming together nicely for the show next month.
Then dashed over to Histon, where we all jumped in Gaf's car
and headed up to Rugby to headline a festival there. Nice event, overran a lot,
not a huge turnout but those who were there were very much there for us and we
bashed through the stuff they wanted to hear. Set: Fine Life, Face in the
Water, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, California for
a Girl, Old Man (cover), Shut Up and Dance, Beautiful You, Somebody to Love
(cover, encore)
Then, after a couple whiskys with our host (that knocked me
sideways...that stuff ripped through my throat) we were back on the road, down
to a Travel Lodge in Newbury, where we sat in the hotel room for a bit, drank,
bantered, and eventually I crashed out at 3am.
Friday 26th June 2015
Got stressed today; the traffic was horrible and when my
schedule is this tight it really gets tricky. Was late picking up Dad for
hospital, but then the hospital was running late because of a scanner breaking
down, so as a result I was late for my freelancing office stuff, which made
everyone a bit angry with me. Can't win, but I've got a real sense of
perspective about it all.
Because of the delay at the hospital, and then the delay
getting me back to work, I was unable to 'nip' over to London to film a sacking
for the film, a sacking which would have been amazing. It's a shame, but again
– nothing is more important than family. I need to get this film finished,
though.
Played a short and slightly odd gig with the band at Kings
College, in which we were mostly background music but the money was great for
the band kitty, and then we all went for dinner, which was lovely.
Friday, 26 June 2015
Thursday 25th June 2015
More radiotherapy stuff for dad, he's having a tough time - nobody deserves to go through what he's going through right now.
After my 4 hour round trip, I did a little work in the afternoon, I get the sense they're not keen on me right now, or maybe I'm just tired and thinking too much about everything.
Evening lounge show around Kate and Bryan's house - brilliant audience, really up for it, did last year's show and then the new one, both were really strong. A fast, sweaty, fun performance. Happy with that.
After my 4 hour round trip, I did a little work in the afternoon, I get the sense they're not keen on me right now, or maybe I'm just tired and thinking too much about everything.
Evening lounge show around Kate and Bryan's house - brilliant audience, really up for it, did last year's show and then the new one, both were really strong. A fast, sweaty, fun performance. Happy with that.
Thursday, 25 June 2015
Wednesday 24th June 2015
Soham (home) to Cambridge, work for 2 hours, Cambridge to St Ives, pick up dad, St Ives to Cambridge for hospital (radiotherapy), Cambridge to St Ives to drop him off, St Ives to Soham to do a little work from home, internet broken so drive to Cottenham to use Andrea's connection instead, rehearse with the Dowsing band for 3 hours at Andrea's once work is done, back to Soham, another hour of work to nail that deadline for them, asleep by 1am.
Somehow in this time I managed to confirm another sacking for the film, wrote more of The Make or Break show, confirm (and then have to rearrange) a date with a nice young lady, register the Make or Break show with the free fringe programme people, rehearse Inadequate Man in my bedroom in between work stuff and write a song called, 'I'm Disgusting', which I'm quite proud of.
Tuesday, 23 June 2015
Tuesday 23rd June 2015
Yeah, didn't enjoy the office job so much today - it was strangely pressured, because of the deadline to get this project done by tomorrow. Suffice to say, it's nowhere near done, especially as I managed to delete some files that I shouldn't have done, or something, I don't know.
Got a really exciting email this morning, the kind of email from somebody very important who strangely enjoyed my acting in the Emily & Michael series, enjoyed my awkwardness a lot. The kind of email that suggests that's not the last I'll hear about this. But you never know, they'll probably never mention it again, but it's just a reminder of who I am; a professional awkward lad.
Heard a brilliant line in a song today: 'I'm on the verge of a breakdown and a breakthrough' - yep.
Spent most of the afternoon listening to the Dowsing set, I've got a lot of learning to do ahead of the next rehearsal, which is tomorrow. Oh dear.
Evening photoshoot for The Make Or Break... show was good fun, in a public bar which confused the locals, but the results are good. I look confused, Edd looks like a session musician - pretty much the look we were going for.
Then had a quick drink with my old chum Julia; a wonderful young lady who I just don't see enough of these days, although she has just moved back to Cambridge so I'm looking forward to catching up again soon.
Got back and worked some more on the 'Make or Break...' script. The intro is the best thing I've ever written. The rest of it feels nice but flimsy, but I'll work on that. Haven't quite confirmed who else is going to be in the band yet.
Got a really exciting email this morning, the kind of email from somebody very important who strangely enjoyed my acting in the Emily & Michael series, enjoyed my awkwardness a lot. The kind of email that suggests that's not the last I'll hear about this. But you never know, they'll probably never mention it again, but it's just a reminder of who I am; a professional awkward lad.
Heard a brilliant line in a song today: 'I'm on the verge of a breakdown and a breakthrough' - yep.
Spent most of the afternoon listening to the Dowsing set, I've got a lot of learning to do ahead of the next rehearsal, which is tomorrow. Oh dear.
Evening photoshoot for The Make Or Break... show was good fun, in a public bar which confused the locals, but the results are good. I look confused, Edd looks like a session musician - pretty much the look we were going for.
Then had a quick drink with my old chum Julia; a wonderful young lady who I just don't see enough of these days, although she has just moved back to Cambridge so I'm looking forward to catching up again soon.
Got back and worked some more on the 'Make or Break...' script. The intro is the best thing I've ever written. The rest of it feels nice but flimsy, but I'll work on that. Haven't quite confirmed who else is going to be in the band yet.
Monday, 22 June 2015
Monday 22nd June 2015
I enjoyed my few hours in the office earlier; I feel like there's a little 'Paul' shaped space for me there, they keep giving me projects that they know I'll be good at. It'll never last. My one colleague (it's a small office) keeps playing dance and electronica music, and some really lovely stuff by Massive Attack. Normally this sort of music isn't my thing, because it's NOT REAL DRUMS AND I'M A DRUMMER, but I found myself getting really into it. And then I had a thought; would it work if there was electronica music over some theatrical storytelling? And then I had an idea for a concept, which would work well as both an album and as a stage show. So I emailed my friend Nathan, who produces music of that ilk, and we're going to meet up soon to discuss it. I know it's a project that I don't have time for, just yet, because I am not in control of anything right now and to be honest, I find myself panicking and then just drinking lots of beer (did that tonight), but wouldn't it be great to do something like this? September, that's when things will be calm, that's when we'll do it.
Photoshoot for the 'Make or Break...' show was postponed, so I had a surprisingly free evening. I spent it writing a very nice newsletter to my 49 followers, by getting really on top of the '50 Ways...' film - I even emailed a bunch more of celebrities (there's still room), by sending over my blurb to the free fringe people about 2 months later than planned but it's all sorted now. Apart from finishing the script for one of the shows, I'm rather on top of things.
This week is going to be good, I think. There's a few clashes in my schedule at the weekend, but I'll worry about that then.
Photoshoot for the 'Make or Break...' show was postponed, so I had a surprisingly free evening. I spent it writing a very nice newsletter to my 49 followers, by getting really on top of the '50 Ways...' film - I even emailed a bunch more of celebrities (there's still room), by sending over my blurb to the free fringe people about 2 months later than planned but it's all sorted now. Apart from finishing the script for one of the shows, I'm rather on top of things.
This week is going to be good, I think. There's a few clashes in my schedule at the weekend, but I'll worry about that then.
Sunday, 21 June 2015
Sunday 21st June 2015
Got up at a nicer time today (we left the hotel at 10.3am) and drove to Bedford, where we were headlining a nice little festival. I wasn't impressed on many levels; I get that festivals overrun, but by an hour and a half? And then the sound was shocking; seriously diabolical. We understand that it's not easy, but to give us barely any monitor mix at all? It was a struggle, the audience loved it and were mostly oblivious but we had a horrid time and even cut out set short, we didn't even play the single we're still promoting - it was that bad up there. Set: Take a Ride, Fine Life, Face in the Water, Standing Next To Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, Old Man (cover), Beautiful You.
Still, lots of happy audience members, although we couldn't hear ourselves maybe it wasn't too bad.
Drove home, popped in to see my parents' to drop off Fathers Day present. Dad collapsed yesterday, but they didn't want to trouble me...I would have come home in an instant. He seemed better today but still, they worry me. My house mate has a brain scan in the morning, that's never a good thing. A lot of people I know seem to be falling apart at the moment - I need to be strong for them. And on a selfish, creative level, next week has to be the week in which I take these many projects by the balls and make them work for me.
Saturday 20th June 2015
Up too early for my liking; about 9am - I'm a musician, this is a horrible time to get up. That's nothing compared to Gaf, though, who I'm sharing a room with, he gets up at early-o-clock and goes for a walk around the town, he likes to explore.
Anyway, got to the Acoustic Festival of Great Britain - a proper big festival this one, and we were playing on the main stage. There was a slight issue when the marquee was leaking...and it was raining heavily...and it was leaking directly onto the mixing desk. But those guys knew what they were doing, we ended up going on half an hour later than planned but it could have been a major disaster, you know - electrics and water and all that, but they worked hard to resolve it and we still got to play a full set. Played well, nice vibe to it all, and we were looked after so well too - great festival, that one. Set: Take a Ride, Fine Life, Face in the Water, Hold On, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, California for a Girl, Another Universe, Shut Up and Dance, Beautiful You, Somebody to Love (cover).
The plan was to go and then dump our cars back at the hotel and get a taxi back, get drunk and enjoy the festival (plenty of great acts playing - Paul Carrick, Nell Bryden etc) but it was pissing it down, so we got back to the hotel, watched a few more episodes of Plebs (series 2, seriously - so good) had a beer, realised it was still raining and decided against the idea of standing in the wet so instead went for a curry, went for a walk, got back to the hotel, watched some more Plebs, drank more beer and eventually fell asleep. Now, I appreciate this isn't quite rock n roll, but the thing is - we could have gone home at any point, it was only 2 and a half hours away, but that was never in question. We're a band that enjoys hanging out together, this is a wonderful thing. And it's all on the band card, too, so it's a bit like a free holiday with some of your favourite people. Could easily spend most of my weekends doing this. Oh hang on - looking at my diary, looks like I am.
Anyway, got to the Acoustic Festival of Great Britain - a proper big festival this one, and we were playing on the main stage. There was a slight issue when the marquee was leaking...and it was raining heavily...and it was leaking directly onto the mixing desk. But those guys knew what they were doing, we ended up going on half an hour later than planned but it could have been a major disaster, you know - electrics and water and all that, but they worked hard to resolve it and we still got to play a full set. Played well, nice vibe to it all, and we were looked after so well too - great festival, that one. Set: Take a Ride, Fine Life, Face in the Water, Hold On, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Marathon Man, California for a Girl, Another Universe, Shut Up and Dance, Beautiful You, Somebody to Love (cover).
The plan was to go and then dump our cars back at the hotel and get a taxi back, get drunk and enjoy the festival (plenty of great acts playing - Paul Carrick, Nell Bryden etc) but it was pissing it down, so we got back to the hotel, watched a few more episodes of Plebs (series 2, seriously - so good) had a beer, realised it was still raining and decided against the idea of standing in the wet so instead went for a curry, went for a walk, got back to the hotel, watched some more Plebs, drank more beer and eventually fell asleep. Now, I appreciate this isn't quite rock n roll, but the thing is - we could have gone home at any point, it was only 2 and a half hours away, but that was never in question. We're a band that enjoys hanging out together, this is a wonderful thing. And it's all on the band card, too, so it's a bit like a free holiday with some of your favourite people. Could easily spend most of my weekends doing this. Oh hang on - looking at my diary, looks like I am.
Friday 19th June 2015
Did a good long shift in the office today; that was needed both financially and because I've actually got work to do do there. Accepted some more lounge shows for Inadequate Man - that puts me in a pretty good place for that one now; it's clearly the best show I've ever done (because I've been through a lot to get it to this level) and these lounge shows should give me a nice run-in before the fringe starts. In fact, I'm quite impressed by myself with how this is turning out. Just need to work on the other shows now - the one with Izzy/Matt, and the Make or Break Mix Tape. Fuck knows if I'm doing this show with Meg or not, she's not really talking to me at the moment, it feels complicated. Which may help the show, I don't know.
My venue for Inadequate Man has been changed by the promoter - I'm now in a bigger room. Most performers would be happy with this; it's a compliment, of course. I'm a bit annoyed. Just because I'm touring it doesn't mean I actually have an audience or more credibility.
There was a real cock-up today with the filming for a '50 Ways...' film. I need to get a grip with this film - it feels like there's a lot riding on it, and I'm really not in control of what's going on at all.
Fred's House, though, they know what they're doing - so organised. Met up with them tonight, and we drove north to stay in a Travel Lodge, in anticipation of tomorrow's early start. I think our plan was to have a drunken crazy one but we're just a bit too sensible and we all crashed out by 1am, I'd only had 3 beers and that was more than the others.
My venue for Inadequate Man has been changed by the promoter - I'm now in a bigger room. Most performers would be happy with this; it's a compliment, of course. I'm a bit annoyed. Just because I'm touring it doesn't mean I actually have an audience or more credibility.
There was a real cock-up today with the filming for a '50 Ways...' film. I need to get a grip with this film - it feels like there's a lot riding on it, and I'm really not in control of what's going on at all.
Fred's House, though, they know what they're doing - so organised. Met up with them tonight, and we drove north to stay in a Travel Lodge, in anticipation of tomorrow's early start. I think our plan was to have a drunken crazy one but we're just a bit too sensible and we all crashed out by 1am, I'd only had 3 beers and that was more than the others.
Thursday, 18 June 2015
Thursday 18th June 2015
Long day. Up early, took dad to one hospital for radiotherapy, and then to a different hospital for chemotherapy. It's draining, isn't it? But I'm not allowing myself the chance to moan about that, because what I'm going through with it is nothing compared to what he's actually suffering.
Got back and spent 3 hours editing 'Bits of Me Hurt' - it's odd, and beautiful in places, and yet quite simple. I'm really happy with it, just waiting for Esther's verdict before setting it live.
And then spent the rest of the evening doing life admin; booking more previews, replying to other fringe festival emails, packing for tomorrow's trip, sorting a photographer for the Make or Break show, finding musicians for that show, finding an actress for that one, sorting the '50 Ways...' film out, organising the quiz night...suddenly it's 1am and I'm worryingly awake.
Got back and spent 3 hours editing 'Bits of Me Hurt' - it's odd, and beautiful in places, and yet quite simple. I'm really happy with it, just waiting for Esther's verdict before setting it live.
And then spent the rest of the evening doing life admin; booking more previews, replying to other fringe festival emails, packing for tomorrow's trip, sorting a photographer for the Make or Break show, finding musicians for that show, finding an actress for that one, sorting the '50 Ways...' film out, organising the quiz night...suddenly it's 1am and I'm worryingly awake.
Wednesday 17th June 2015
Worked really hard today, but spent most of my time being patronised by programmers. They're not real people, these programmers, are they? They just seem to lack any basic social skills. Or maybe I'm just too chatty to them. Either way, we're not friends.
Got back, did a bit of work on the 'Make or Break Mix Tape' show, and then off to Dowsing rehearsal, where everybody was as knackered as I was, which was nice. The set is magical, though, when we're all awake enough I think it will be brilliant.
Got back, did a bit of work on the 'Make or Break Mix Tape' show, and then off to Dowsing rehearsal, where everybody was as knackered as I was, which was nice. The set is magical, though, when we're all awake enough I think it will be brilliant.
Wednesday, 17 June 2015
Tuesday 16th June 2015
Long day. Dad in hospital (complete with blood transfusion), managed to work on 'The Make or Break Mix Tape' script whilst in the waiting room.
After family duties I popped over to Esther's to film 'Bits of Me Hurt' - nailed all 3 episodes; I was there till gone 1am, although not all of that was filming - socilasing, ranting, took up a bit of time too. She's turned into a great actress you know, she just gets it completely. If I edit this properly this could be something rather brilliant.
After family duties I popped over to Esther's to film 'Bits of Me Hurt' - nailed all 3 episodes; I was there till gone 1am, although not all of that was filming - socilasing, ranting, took up a bit of time too. She's turned into a great actress you know, she just gets it completely. If I edit this properly this could be something rather brilliant.
Monday 15th June 2015
Last night was a bit weird; if this show happens it'll be even weirder.
Did some office work, very productive today, nice vibes.
Wrote the rest of 'Bits of Me Hurt', and managed to clean all the rubbish out of my car and bedroom. Just one of those days where I really get things done.
Evening rehearsed new material with the band, the new stuff is so good - we're working our arses off here, but it should be worth every second.
Did some office work, very productive today, nice vibes.
Wrote the rest of 'Bits of Me Hurt', and managed to clean all the rubbish out of my car and bedroom. Just one of those days where I really get things done.
Evening rehearsed new material with the band, the new stuff is so good - we're working our arses off here, but it should be worth every second.
Sunday, 14 June 2015
Sunday 14th June 2015
Had a lie-in today, that felt awesome, before getting awoken by a call from a producer about the freeview writing I'm doing.
Lovely gig with Claudia this afternoon - part of the busking festival again but this time indoors. Great little audience, relaxed set, played well. Set: The Love I Give, No Strings, Caramel, Happy, Glory Box, Fever, She, Zombie, Under The Boardwalk, Staying In Tonight, Hit The Road Jack.
Had a spot of dinner with Claudia, Marcel and Edd, before I went off to meet up with Meg again. The show we are writing together pretty much parallels real life; this is getting messy, and more awkward than I can possibly reveal on a public blog. As a result it's brilliant...but really, can I put myself through this? And surely we should decide if we actually get together, not a fucking audience?
Lovely gig with Claudia this afternoon - part of the busking festival again but this time indoors. Great little audience, relaxed set, played well. Set: The Love I Give, No Strings, Caramel, Happy, Glory Box, Fever, She, Zombie, Under The Boardwalk, Staying In Tonight, Hit The Road Jack.
Had a spot of dinner with Claudia, Marcel and Edd, before I went off to meet up with Meg again. The show we are writing together pretty much parallels real life; this is getting messy, and more awkward than I can possibly reveal on a public blog. As a result it's brilliant...but really, can I put myself through this? And surely we should decide if we actually get together, not a fucking audience?
Saturday 13th June 2015
Meg seemed really excited this morning about this whole 'taking a show to Edinburgh even though the fringe is 7 weeks away' thing...have I finally met somebody who is as mad as me?
Confirmed 'The Make or Break Mix Tape' run at the fringe, finally. It's in a great venue in a perfect time slot, I'm very happy. Just need to finish writing it, and find a pianist.
Drummed a lot today - firstly as part of the Cambridge Buskers Festival. First set was guesting with 4 Labyrinth - lovely gig that in a small marquee, great musicians and good friends, was a pleasure to help out. Set: Get Out Alive, Leave, Keep Me From Falling, Darkness Calling, Rule The World, Wonderful Song,
Then we legged it (literally) to another bit of Cambridge to play with Claudia & The Braidy Bunch, with some of the same musicians (Claudia, Marcel, plus Edd). This was outside, it rained a lot, it was a struggle but an achievement all the same. Cut our set short, mostly due to the fear of being electrocuted. Set: The Love I Give, No Strings Happy, She, Staying In Tonight.
Then drove to Milton Keynes to headline a festival with the band, a festival organised by our good friend and loyal follower, Julian. It was a festival in aid of his wife, who has battled cancer, and was a celebration for her. Julian is clearly rich; his house is pretty much an estate, his 'small festival in a garden' was bigger than a lot of 'proper' festivals we've played. An audience full of FH fans - hanging on to everything we were doing, it was glorious. Bashed my head against one of the posts that was holding up the marquee, felt very queasy, dropped a stick, nearly threw up twice (two 'sicky burps'), but didn't drop a beat...pretty sure I had minor concussion there, glad it was a gig of two halves because during the interval I could get some air and water, and move the kit a bit so it wouldn't happen again. Storming second half, just brilliant.
After the gig a pretty young lady came up to me and asked to have her photograph taken with me. Naturally I obliged. She then said it was for her mum, who was a massive fan of my drumming. THAT'S TWO WEEKS IN A ROW. I'm clearly a housewives favourite.
Confirmed 'The Make or Break Mix Tape' run at the fringe, finally. It's in a great venue in a perfect time slot, I'm very happy. Just need to finish writing it, and find a pianist.
Drummed a lot today - firstly as part of the Cambridge Buskers Festival. First set was guesting with 4 Labyrinth - lovely gig that in a small marquee, great musicians and good friends, was a pleasure to help out. Set: Get Out Alive, Leave, Keep Me From Falling, Darkness Calling, Rule The World, Wonderful Song,
Then we legged it (literally) to another bit of Cambridge to play with Claudia & The Braidy Bunch, with some of the same musicians (Claudia, Marcel, plus Edd). This was outside, it rained a lot, it was a struggle but an achievement all the same. Cut our set short, mostly due to the fear of being electrocuted. Set: The Love I Give, No Strings Happy, She, Staying In Tonight.
Then drove to Milton Keynes to headline a festival with the band, a festival organised by our good friend and loyal follower, Julian. It was a festival in aid of his wife, who has battled cancer, and was a celebration for her. Julian is clearly rich; his house is pretty much an estate, his 'small festival in a garden' was bigger than a lot of 'proper' festivals we've played. An audience full of FH fans - hanging on to everything we were doing, it was glorious. Bashed my head against one of the posts that was holding up the marquee, felt very queasy, dropped a stick, nearly threw up twice (two 'sicky burps'), but didn't drop a beat...pretty sure I had minor concussion there, glad it was a gig of two halves because during the interval I could get some air and water, and move the kit a bit so it wouldn't happen again. Storming second half, just brilliant.
After the gig a pretty young lady came up to me and asked to have her photograph taken with me. Naturally I obliged. She then said it was for her mum, who was a massive fan of my drumming. THAT'S TWO WEEKS IN A ROW. I'm clearly a housewives favourite.
Friday 12th June 2015
Managed to host some clients today whilst working for a few hours in the office, whilst still not really sure what the company does.
Need to work more on my novel; I was on a really good run with it recently but then other stuff just got in the way. Next week; next week I shall write like a crazy man.
Worked on the 'Bits of Me Hurt' scripts - we start filming (again) on Tuesday. Confirmed a few more band shows.
Evening met up with Meg, Jack, Emily and Edd to watch the Horne Section at the Junction. The best I've ever seen them...amazing, some things just shouldn't be allowed to be that great.
Went for late drinks with Meg afterwards, we've agreed to write a show together. Possibly even take it to the fringe this year, if we can get a last-minute slot. It's all very exciting.
Need to work more on my novel; I was on a really good run with it recently but then other stuff just got in the way. Next week; next week I shall write like a crazy man.
Worked on the 'Bits of Me Hurt' scripts - we start filming (again) on Tuesday. Confirmed a few more band shows.
Evening met up with Meg, Jack, Emily and Edd to watch the Horne Section at the Junction. The best I've ever seen them...amazing, some things just shouldn't be allowed to be that great.
Went for late drinks with Meg afterwards, we've agreed to write a show together. Possibly even take it to the fringe this year, if we can get a last-minute slot. It's all very exciting.
Friday, 12 June 2015
Thursday 11th June 2015
Few more hours in the office, managed to fix the things I broke yesterday. Spent too long after that working on 'life admin' - tax stuff etc, always a lot to keep on top of.
Sudbury in the evening to be sacked for a film by a whole orchestra; some gloriously awkward footage there, they were a lovely and willing bunch and this is a nice addition to the film. A film which is getting me a little stressed, to be honest, because everyone is looking forward to it. This has to be good, it just has to be.
And then went to a lovely restaurant (if you like that sort of thing) with the lovely Meg, very nice evening.
Sudbury in the evening to be sacked for a film by a whole orchestra; some gloriously awkward footage there, they were a lovely and willing bunch and this is a nice addition to the film. A film which is getting me a little stressed, to be honest, because everyone is looking forward to it. This has to be good, it just has to be.
And then went to a lovely restaurant (if you like that sort of thing) with the lovely Meg, very nice evening.
Wednesday, 10 June 2015
Wednesday 10th June 2015
Few more hours in the office; considering I only did 10 last week, it's quite nice to do a few more this time around. Nice email from John Otway about the film, we'll grab a pint at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Went to see Mum and Dad after work; Dad looks really ill at the moment. He is, and he has been for some time, but he doesn't always look it. Just a quick reminder about life priorities, and all that. I spend too much time worrying about little things.
Edited tour film. Just watching it back makes me feel a little exhausted.
Went to see Mum and Dad after work; Dad looks really ill at the moment. He is, and he has been for some time, but he doesn't always look it. Just a quick reminder about life priorities, and all that. I spend too much time worrying about little things.
Edited tour film. Just watching it back makes me feel a little exhausted.
Tuesday 9th June 2015
Did some hours in the office, that'll go in the Edinburgh/car insurance/speeding ticket pot. All helps, anyway.
Tried to get a few more previews booked in, offered Inadequate Man as a lounge show - got 2 offers straight away, which is nice.
Evening covers gig with G and V, probably our weakest yet, but with covers you can get away with it - everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. And then Owen turned up for a meeting about our freeview TV show, was productive and lots of strong ideas cemented.
Tried to get a few more previews booked in, offered Inadequate Man as a lounge show - got 2 offers straight away, which is nice.
Evening covers gig with G and V, probably our weakest yet, but with covers you can get away with it - everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. And then Owen turned up for a meeting about our freeview TV show, was productive and lots of strong ideas cemented.
Tuesday, 9 June 2015
Monday 8th June 2015
The Edinburgh Fringe is really, really close now, isn't it? Oddly, my show is as slick as it's ever been - a few friends who came to the show last night seemed almost slightly baffled as to how sharp it is, and how in control I am on stage with both the material and the audience. Maybe those weeks of touring has been worthwhile after all...
But I still need to write 'The Make or Break Mix Tape', my bits for the show with Izzy and Matt, and think about promotion. I should have thought about this before, but then again - how much room in my head is there? Either way, I thought I'd be in for a restful few days but clearly that's not really going to happen.
Put some hours in back in the office, I like it there - nice vibe. Filmed a nice scene for the '50 Ways...' film with Sugarbeat, nice people and good musicians - an interesting and very different sacking. Got back and rehearsed with Claudia, Marcel and Edd initially for our gig this weekend, and then with just Claudia and Marcel for the 4th Labyrinth gig I'm stepping in to play at the same event.
Was then up till 2am editing the footage of the recent tour. It'll be a downbeat documentary, can't deny that, but it says how it is and there are some happier moments in there too. My PC seems to be struggling a bit at the moment; I'm filming everything in HD these days which is great for the quality for the footage, but slows everything down a lot. It'll be a while before this very simple tour film sees the light of day I think.
But I still need to write 'The Make or Break Mix Tape', my bits for the show with Izzy and Matt, and think about promotion. I should have thought about this before, but then again - how much room in my head is there? Either way, I thought I'd be in for a restful few days but clearly that's not really going to happen.
Put some hours in back in the office, I like it there - nice vibe. Filmed a nice scene for the '50 Ways...' film with Sugarbeat, nice people and good musicians - an interesting and very different sacking. Got back and rehearsed with Claudia, Marcel and Edd initially for our gig this weekend, and then with just Claudia and Marcel for the 4th Labyrinth gig I'm stepping in to play at the same event.
Was then up till 2am editing the footage of the recent tour. It'll be a downbeat documentary, can't deny that, but it says how it is and there are some happier moments in there too. My PC seems to be struggling a bit at the moment; I'm filming everything in HD these days which is great for the quality for the footage, but slows everything down a lot. It'll be a while before this very simple tour film sees the light of day I think.
Sunday, 7 June 2015
Sunday 7th June 2015
Woke up hungover on a mate's floor, popped home, loaded up stuff and then off to Dowsing rehearsal, the first session for the forthcoming gig. Easy set, this one, as it's mostly acoustic, so I just tap along merrily doing my thing and the food is quite nice.
Then off to Cambridge for the final Inadequate Man tour show; quite glad to get it out of the way to be honest, but the Cambridge shows - both of them, were honestly great tonight. I'm hitting good form, the Corner House works totally as a venue. Bit strange having an ex-girlfriend in the front row, by herself, watching me somewhat intently; the first time I've seen her since she dumped me last year and it's when she's paid a fiver to watch me shout for an hour...but it was still utterly lovely to see her. Wish I filmed the shows tonight, I'm on really good form at the moment, the show is fast, it's slick, I added in yet more new bits tonight and most if it works, it's ever evolving into something rather wonderful.
15 performances, 189 audience members, 3981 miles travelled, 3 speeding tickets later, this run of shows is over. I'm happy, but knackered, last week nearly killed me.
Then off to Cambridge for the final Inadequate Man tour show; quite glad to get it out of the way to be honest, but the Cambridge shows - both of them, were honestly great tonight. I'm hitting good form, the Corner House works totally as a venue. Bit strange having an ex-girlfriend in the front row, by herself, watching me somewhat intently; the first time I've seen her since she dumped me last year and it's when she's paid a fiver to watch me shout for an hour...but it was still utterly lovely to see her. Wish I filmed the shows tonight, I'm on really good form at the moment, the show is fast, it's slick, I added in yet more new bits tonight and most if it works, it's ever evolving into something rather wonderful.
15 performances, 189 audience members, 3981 miles travelled, 3 speeding tickets later, this run of shows is over. I'm happy, but knackered, last week nearly killed me.
Saturday 6th June 2015
That was a long day. Up early-ish to meet up with the band, and then Gaf drove us down to Temple Grafton, which, despite what we initially thought, isn't near Rugby. It's much, much further than that. Anyway, eventually got there - twee little folk festival but friendly enough, we look weirdly dangerous when on the bill at such events. Set: Fine Life, Face in the Water, Hold On, California for a Girl, Standing Next to Me, Beautiful You.
That felt like a long way to go for such a short set, but good to give the new track a first airing. I slept in the car as we headed back to Cambs, a quick game of Pro Evo (I beat Griff and Alister, just saying) and then off to the Strawberry Fair for our electric set. It's a logistical nightmare, that festival, you have to carry a lot of gear around, but audience wise it's the best - storming show, amazing show that one. Set: Fine Life, Face in the Water, California for a Girl, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Shut Up & Dance, Beautiful You; Somebody to Love (cover, encore).
I then went out for my mate Vicky's birthday, got drunk and walked into a bike rack, which lead to a lot of blood. But a nice evening, refused to go clubbing.
That felt like a long way to go for such a short set, but good to give the new track a first airing. I slept in the car as we headed back to Cambs, a quick game of Pro Evo (I beat Griff and Alister, just saying) and then off to the Strawberry Fair for our electric set. It's a logistical nightmare, that festival, you have to carry a lot of gear around, but audience wise it's the best - storming show, amazing show that one. Set: Fine Life, Face in the Water, California for a Girl, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Shut Up & Dance, Beautiful You; Somebody to Love (cover, encore).
I then went out for my mate Vicky's birthday, got drunk and walked into a bike rack, which lead to a lot of blood. But a nice evening, refused to go clubbing.
Friday, 5 June 2015
Friday 5th June 2015
So here's a weird thing. The other day, when that person at the toll road shouted 'ooooiii' at me...I actually filmed a bit of that journey for my tour documentary, including that moment. I watched it back, to see what I did wrong. No shouting. Were those voices in my head? I'm losing the plot a bit.
But stress should be nearly over. I have been getting stressed about the car speeding ticket situation, especially as I hadn't heard back about the third of my three recent incidents, so just basically waiting for a letter in the post with legal action. Having that hang over your head isn't nice, not when you're on stage every night, but I had no way of contacting them (apart from by post, but that's pretty unreliable). That's all sorted now, though, won't go into details but in short; they called me (they had my number from the other 2 forms), they were lovely, turns out my admission got lost in the post, we did it all by email, I'll pay my fine and we can all move on. They were honestly lovely; they're not just out to make money out of us/give us points, they were really keen to avoid conflict. So yep, a few points on the licence now, but I probably deserve it, I'm still driving and that's all done with.
Dad's getting radiotherapy soon, which is great news, because it means he's well enough to have it after the chemo - it's a struggle, but it should help him walk at least, he deserves to have a bit of independence. That's a positive thing.
Long drive back from Brixham, was supposed to be 4 and a bit hours. Took 7, nearly missed my BBC radio slot with Griff, but got there with a few minutes to spare. Played 2 songs on air (Face in the Water and Shut Up & Dance) and chatted, was a nice session.
Then lengthy band rehearsal to work on the new stuff, eventually home by 11.30pm, still wearing the same clothes I wore on stage last night. A busy weekend of gigging ahead, it is pretty much non-stop, isn't it?
But stress should be nearly over. I have been getting stressed about the car speeding ticket situation, especially as I hadn't heard back about the third of my three recent incidents, so just basically waiting for a letter in the post with legal action. Having that hang over your head isn't nice, not when you're on stage every night, but I had no way of contacting them (apart from by post, but that's pretty unreliable). That's all sorted now, though, won't go into details but in short; they called me (they had my number from the other 2 forms), they were lovely, turns out my admission got lost in the post, we did it all by email, I'll pay my fine and we can all move on. They were honestly lovely; they're not just out to make money out of us/give us points, they were really keen to avoid conflict. So yep, a few points on the licence now, but I probably deserve it, I'm still driving and that's all done with.
Dad's getting radiotherapy soon, which is great news, because it means he's well enough to have it after the chemo - it's a struggle, but it should help him walk at least, he deserves to have a bit of independence. That's a positive thing.
Long drive back from Brixham, was supposed to be 4 and a bit hours. Took 7, nearly missed my BBC radio slot with Griff, but got there with a few minutes to spare. Played 2 songs on air (Face in the Water and Shut Up & Dance) and chatted, was a nice session.
Then lengthy band rehearsal to work on the new stuff, eventually home by 11.30pm, still wearing the same clothes I wore on stage last night. A busy weekend of gigging ahead, it is pretty much non-stop, isn't it?
Thursday 4th June 2015
A couple things inspired me over a period of 24 hours. The first one being the John Otway movie, which I watched late last night - the situations he got into, the extreme lengths he's gone to in order to hit the success he craves, it's just inspiring. Wish I'd known all of this when I filmed with him recently, we would have had much more to talk about. It's a brilliant film, I feel the need to watch it again very soon.
And then, secondly, today on the way to my show in Devon, I went via Somerset and met up with my old friend, Helen. I've known Helen for years, many years ago at a party when I was about 22 or 23 I think we met, and we've stayed in touch ever since. She's exciting - probably the most exciting person I know, purely because she's ditched her safe job, sold her house and bought a camper van. Despite being highly regarded as an editor/journalist, she's had a complicated life, and this 'pre-30' realisation that life is for the living has turned her from being an office type to a travelling, free-living adventurer. I very much enjoyed catching up with her, and when I do ever get around to leaving the country I'll be sure to find her on the farm in wherever it is in Europe she ends up.
From Somerset I went to Paignton, checked in, and then drove to Berry Head. Big audience for the solo show tonight, and bigger room than I thought it was going to be. They looked a bit scary but really enjoyed it, and my voice projected enough - the first half in particular felt like a tour strong point. Second half dragged a bit, we could all feel it, but they stuck with it. 100 minutes is too long for one person on stage solo I think, especially in a cafe, but well done them for hanging on. I got treated very well tonight; show had to be done by 9.15 due to an issue with bats. Yep, wouldn't get that if I kept on just doing shows in Cambridge.
Stayed in a lovely hotel, it's a bit lonely touring solo sometimes, but I'm reading a good book at the moment.
And then, secondly, today on the way to my show in Devon, I went via Somerset and met up with my old friend, Helen. I've known Helen for years, many years ago at a party when I was about 22 or 23 I think we met, and we've stayed in touch ever since. She's exciting - probably the most exciting person I know, purely because she's ditched her safe job, sold her house and bought a camper van. Despite being highly regarded as an editor/journalist, she's had a complicated life, and this 'pre-30' realisation that life is for the living has turned her from being an office type to a travelling, free-living adventurer. I very much enjoyed catching up with her, and when I do ever get around to leaving the country I'll be sure to find her on the farm in wherever it is in Europe she ends up.
From Somerset I went to Paignton, checked in, and then drove to Berry Head. Big audience for the solo show tonight, and bigger room than I thought it was going to be. They looked a bit scary but really enjoyed it, and my voice projected enough - the first half in particular felt like a tour strong point. Second half dragged a bit, we could all feel it, but they stuck with it. 100 minutes is too long for one person on stage solo I think, especially in a cafe, but well done them for hanging on. I got treated very well tonight; show had to be done by 9.15 due to an issue with bats. Yep, wouldn't get that if I kept on just doing shows in Cambridge.
Stayed in a lovely hotel, it's a bit lonely touring solo sometimes, but I'm reading a good book at the moment.
Wednesday, 3 June 2015
Wednesday 3rd June 2015
I reckon it's my car, you know, that's stressing me out. Just lots of little incidents keep happening; today it was a nice bit of road rage from a taxi driver. He was really angry. Not sure why. Quite happy not to be driving too much today as much as that came in annoying circumstances. Mutually agreed with the venue to cancel the show in Dorset due to disappointing ticket sales. Shortly after we pulled it loads of sales came in...really could have done well there, you know.
Instead I put a few hours in at the office to keep the pennies coming in (my work today should cover my fuel for tomorrow), caught up on emails - that tour I've been offered for October is probably going to happen, booked a lovely (and very cheap) hotel for tomorrow night, made notes for a new show I haven't got time to write.
I'm burning out, yet career-wise I feel like I'm pretty much still in the starting blocks. Tonight's night off feels needed, as much as I have spent most of it helping an old friend book a covers band for his function.
Instead I put a few hours in at the office to keep the pennies coming in (my work today should cover my fuel for tomorrow), caught up on emails - that tour I've been offered for October is probably going to happen, booked a lovely (and very cheap) hotel for tomorrow night, made notes for a new show I haven't got time to write.
I'm burning out, yet career-wise I feel like I'm pretty much still in the starting blocks. Tonight's night off feels needed, as much as I have spent most of it helping an old friend book a covers band for his function.
Tuesday, 2 June 2015
Tuesday 2nd June 2015
The reason why I came from Newcastle last night, rather than stay there like a normal person would, was because I was needed for family duties today; taking mum to visit dad in hospital etc. That took up most of the day, as did my mum telling me how tired I look. She had a point; she kept on making it.
Not sure what to do about the show tomorrow; it's 6 hours away, it's on an island, the venue aren't replying to their emails. Shall I still do it?
Evening I was a guest speaker at an event in Ely, talking about being a writer/drummer. Great to catch up with good friends, Mike and Karen. Speech was mediocre, everyone seemed to enjoy it enough. I wouldn't have enjoyed that.
Not sure what to do about the show tomorrow; it's 6 hours away, it's on an island, the venue aren't replying to their emails. Shall I still do it?
Evening I was a guest speaker at an event in Ely, talking about being a writer/drummer. Great to catch up with good friends, Mike and Karen. Speech was mediocre, everyone seemed to enjoy it enough. I wouldn't have enjoyed that.
Monday 1st June 2015
It's an easy trip, they said, just drive on the A1, they said. They were right. Until they fucking closed that road. Worst trip home ever; left venue at 9.30pm, home by 3.30am, having spent far too long lost in Newark, where the A1 suddenly ended. Tried to find a hotel for the night, resigned to the fact I'll never make it home because my sat-nav kept trying to get me back to the closed road. Eventually just drove, and drove, and drove, not knowing where I was going, until I found a sign for Peterborough, and I worked it out from there.
Still, apart from the trip home, Newcastle was fun. Did a couple hours work in the morning before heading off, left in good time and the journey there was a doddle, listened to the musical, 'Company' twice in a row because it's amazing and then suddenly I was there. Venue amazing, such a friendly bunch, audience lovely - venue about half full, but they were my sort of audience - students, mostly, and a man in the front row who I swear was comedian Micky Flanagan but didn't like to ask. I was on it tonight, they were with me from the start - every show should be like this. Newcastle is my new favourite place to do shows, I'm flattered by their sense of kindness.
And then the drive home ruined it for me. Road closures take the pleasure out of driving.
Earlier that day I realised I just don't have a spare hour, a spare hour to do my washing, so panic bought more clothes from Tesco. Yep, it's come to this.
Still, apart from the trip home, Newcastle was fun. Did a couple hours work in the morning before heading off, left in good time and the journey there was a doddle, listened to the musical, 'Company' twice in a row because it's amazing and then suddenly I was there. Venue amazing, such a friendly bunch, audience lovely - venue about half full, but they were my sort of audience - students, mostly, and a man in the front row who I swear was comedian Micky Flanagan but didn't like to ask. I was on it tonight, they were with me from the start - every show should be like this. Newcastle is my new favourite place to do shows, I'm flattered by their sense of kindness.
And then the drive home ruined it for me. Road closures take the pleasure out of driving.
Earlier that day I realised I just don't have a spare hour, a spare hour to do my washing, so panic bought more clothes from Tesco. Yep, it's come to this.
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