Browsing Tag NUTSMAG

Promoter/Resident at ‘For Dancers Only’ club in Wexford and semi-regular resident at ‘Sleepless nights Soulclub’ Dublin.

1. How and when did you get into music and what were you listening to then?

Got into music big time in the early eighties through the Mod Revival and then bands like The Prisoners came along with a much more sixties sound. Northern Soul was quite big in Dublin at the time but to be honest that whole scene passed me by.

2. Where was your first DJ slot?

When I was in College in Carlow in 85/86 I used to play a local pub playing mainly mod revival / sixties.

3. What was your most memorable DJ spot?

It’s hard to pick one; stand outs have been The Boiler in Barcelona, Klubb Magnus in Oslo. Always the Hideaway, plus and Basics and Friday Street in Scotland, and of course the Mousetrap and R’n’B 123 earlier this year were a bit special.

4. What has been your worst DJ experience?

I remember one night at a ‘Northern Soul’ club in Ireland they only had CD decks and couldn’t understand why I had only brought records.

5. Your favourite scene DJ’s and why?

Alan Handscombe, Chris Dale, Steve Hiscock, Soulful Jules, Niamh Lynch, Neil Henderson, Davie Hudson, Jimmy and Luis Soulful, Andy Pollard; they’ve all introduced me to new tunes and have such a great passion. Jamie Parr and Alfredo Maddaloni came to Dublin recently and they rocked the place.

6. What has shaped your DJ sound and why?

I love the sound of records from the mid to late fifties/ early sixties, before the sound was sanitised for white America. The records were produced for the dancefloor and that’s why they still sound so good.

7. What was your best ever find/discovery?

I can’t lay claim to discovering any record but my best find was Harry Starr at a record fair in Wexford for a tenner.

8. Who was your biggest influence musically and your favourite artist(s)?

My favourite singer ever is Little Willie John, his voice is unique. I also love Ike & Tina, Howlin’ Wolf, Lavern Baker, Ray Charles.

9. Do you collect specific labels/artists/genres?

I don’t collect any specific labels, I’d never be able to afford it for a start. I don’t ever buy a record unless I really like it no matter how popular it is.

10. Where can folks currently catch your DJ set?

Currently working on a new night in Dublin, I’ll be at Sleepless Nights in Dublin and of course For Dancers Only, check the club page for details.

Next Club Spots for 2013:
Mojo Workin’ R&B Weekend. Donostia, San Sebastian, Spain, 1 & 2 March
Prestatyn Soul Weekender, Wales, 8 – 10 March
Le Beat Bespoke, Crossfire, London, 31 March
No Way Out, Manchester, Sat 13 April

11. Please give us a top 10 all time favourite’s and a current top 5 spins?

Top 10 Tracks of All Time:

1. Harry Starr – Another Time, Another Place
2. Danny Owens – You’re a Little Too Late
3. Four Tops – Baby I Need Your Loving
4. Gay Poppers – I Want to Know
5. Ernie Washington – Lonesome Shack
6. Little Willie John – I’m Shakin’
7. Sity & James – You Needn’t Tell Me
8. Mary Ann Fisher – Put on your Shoes
9. Sammy Ambrose – Monkey See, Monkey Do
10. The Ascots – She Did

Current Top 5 Tracks:

1. Ercel Jones – That’s My Man
2. Roy Brown – Mr Hound Dog’s In Town
3. Otis Blackwell – Let the Daddy Hold You
4. Katherine Hughes – How Can I Go
5. Ruby & the Wonders – Don’t Cha Do It

DJ Promo Links
www.facebook.com/groups

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drrobert

I run The New Untouchables organization and events like the Brighton Mod Weekender, Le Beat Bespoké Festival (and compilation series of the same name) and I co-organize Euro Ye Ye with the Trouble & Tea crew. I have run many clubs over the last 20 years in London, where I live and current nights include Timebox, Zoo Zoo, Crossfire, 100 Club and Mousetrap allnighter which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011. I have been lucky to DJ all over the globe including Japan, Canada, USA and Europe and met some great people on my journey. I run RnB Records to offset my vinyl addiction: newuntouchables.com/rnbrecords for rare vintage vinyl.

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Dr Crippen’s Far Out Underground All Star Acid Rock DJ Team in Belfast.

1. How and when did you get into music and what were you listening to then?

I was just getting hairs on it when Maggie Thatcher was elected in ’79 and in the throws of the troubles in Belfast so music became of the utmost importance quite early on. Like most with an older brother I got his records in my ears whether I liked them or not. The likes of Blondie, some glammy nonsense and then, Baaaam! punk happened. Soon after that the Blondie single hadn’t come into the record shop yet and so my brother bought ‘Time for Action’ by Secret Affair instead and next thing I knew there was a white SX200 taking up half the back yard.

2. Where was your first DJ slot?

Goodness, I really can’t recall but I think I was wearing my black shirt with the snails on it, I loved that shirt, maybe late 80s.

3. What was your most memorable DJ spot?

Hard one…torn between the acid jazz boat trip and Lou’s 30th birthday party.

4. What so far, has been your worst DJ experience?

Torn between an office party where this geezer comes up and says ‘this music is crap do you have any ‘middle of the road’ and I says: “What the band?” And he says: “No the genre.” Also Lou’s 30th birthday party.

5. Your favourite scene DJ’s and why?

The standard wonder that is Jack White and his selections used to send me, but he’s cleared off to the land of funk and honeys now so it’s hard to say as I like a lot of DJs outside of the scene as well so far too many to mention but gotta dig on the Glasgow battalion, the German lot, my wee mate Paddy the Face and of course the craftsmanship of Rob.

6. What has shaped your DJ sound and why?

Dancing. I’m lucky in that I have DJd in lots of different places with different crowds, from heads who listen to spangled muntfruggers who just gotta move, but when it comes to the 60s scene stuff its gotta get ya up.

7. What was your best ever find/discovery?

£30 in a car park… sweet.

8. Who was your biggest influence musically and your favourite artist(s)?

My mates; but all three Pointer Sisters were cool, but if I had to choose, I’d say Ruth was definitely my favourite. We’d tell jokes, play cards on the tour bus, and just generally have a real good time. I was with her in this hotel lobby in St. Petersburg when she came up with the basic chord structure for “Automatic,” and after that, she’d always say I was her good-luck charm. But like I said, all three were real cool. Touring with them was one of the best times I’ve had in this crazy business. In ’86, I left to tour with Richard Marx, and we had a lot of success, especially with the “Repeat Offender” tour a few years later, but it just wasn’t the same. I tell you, I really miss those gals.

9. Where can folks currently catch your DJ set?

Various Belfast events.

10. What is the record you would most like to own?

All of them.

11. Please give us a top 10 all time favourite’s and a current top 5 spins?

Top 10 Tracks of All Time:

1. Deep Purple – Hush
2. Four Blazers – Hush
3. Kris Ife – Hush
4. Funky Junction – Hush
5. Woody Herman – Hush
6. Love Affair – Hush
7. Somebody’s Image – Hush
8. Los Rockin’ Devils – Hush
9. Sylnana Velasco – Hush
10. Kula Shaker – Govinda

Current Top 5 Tracks: 

1. The Churchills – Sunshine Man
2. Orange Machine – Dr Crippen’s Waiting Room
3. Fallen Angels – Everything Would be Fine
4. Arcadium – Poor Lady
5. Mr Love – Ease the Pain

DJ Promo Links
facebook.com/groups
facebook.com/sarge.mcsargey
twitter.com/SARGENSTEIN
mixcloud.com/sarge/
spring-heeled-sarge.podomatic.com/

drrobert

I run The New Untouchables organization and events like the Brighton Mod Weekender, Le Beat Bespoké Festival (and compilation series of the same name) and I co-organize Euro Ye Ye with the Trouble & Tea crew. I have run many clubs over the last 20 years in London, where I live and current nights include Timebox, Zoo Zoo, Crossfire, 100 Club and Mousetrap allnighter which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011. I have been lucky to DJ all over the globe including Japan, Canada, USA and Europe and met some great people on my journey. I run RnB Records to offset my vinyl addiction: newuntouchables.com/rnbrecords for rare vintage vinyl.

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6TS Rhythm & Soul Club at the 100 Club Northern Soul All Nighters.

1. How and when did you get into music and what were you listening to then?

The Animals. While living in Derby 1964.

2. Where was your first DJ slot?

The Last Chance 6TS allnighter, 21 Oxford St in 1982.

3. What was your most memorable DJ spot?

Every closing Sunday night at the Cleethorpes weekender.

4. Your favourite scene DJ’s and why?

Butch for new sounds, Mick Smith for the old ones.

5. What has shaped your DJ sound and why?

Randy Cozens showing me there was more than Northern to soul dancing.

6. What was your best ever find/discovery?

Sharon Scott – Putting My Heart under Lock and Key, most famous ones are Melba Moore – The Magic Touch and Frankie & Johnny – I’ll Hold You.

7. Biggest influence musically and your favourite artist(s)?

Impressions, Lou Johnson & Maxine Brown.

8. Where can folks currently catch your DJ set?

100 Club – The next night is on Saturday Feb 16th 2013.

9. What is the record you would most like to own?

That one that hasn’t been discovered yet.

10. Please give us a top 10 all time favourite’s and a current top 5 spins?

Top 10 Tracks of All Time:

1. Kim Weston – Helpless
2. Carla Thomas – I’ll Never Stop Loving You
3. Four Tops – Baby I Need Your Loving
4. The Parliaments – This Is My Rainy Day
5. The Sensations – Demanding Man
6. Spellbinders – Help Me
7. Ben E King – Getting’ To Me (Atco acetate)
8. Sharon Scott – I’m Not Afraid (acetate)
9. Barbara Lynn – This Is the Thanks I Get
10. Luther Ingram – Oh Baby Don’t You Weep

Current Top 5 Tracks: 

1. Nancy Wilcox – He’ll Be Leaving You – Pied Piper
2. September Jones – Voo Doo Mademoiselle – Pied Piper
3. Magic Night – If You and I Had Never Met – Roulette
4. Melvin Parker – If I Had My Way (acetate)
5. O C Tolbert – Marriage Is Just a State Of Mind (Dave Hamilton acetate)

DJ Promo Links
www.6ts.info
facebook.com/pages/6Ts-Rhythm-and-Soul-Society/6320844642

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drrobert

I run The New Untouchables organization and events like the Brighton Mod Weekender, Le Beat Bespoké Festival (and compilation series of the same name) and I co-organize Euro Ye Ye with the Trouble & Tea crew. I have run many clubs over the last 20 years in London, where I live and current nights include Timebox, Zoo Zoo, Crossfire, 100 Club and Mousetrap allnighter which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011. I have been lucky to DJ all over the globe including Japan, Canada, USA and Europe and met some great people on my journey. I run RnB Records to offset my vinyl addiction: newuntouchables.com/rnbrecords for rare vintage vinyl.

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Resident DJ at Mushroom Machine Club, Mod Generation Club & Teenage Kicks Club, all in Madrid, Spain. Organiser of many other events and parties related to those ones mentioned.

1. How and when did you get into music and what were you listening to then?

I was really young when I started to listen to music, 7 to 8 years old, mostly new wave and power pop stuff in the very early 80s.

2. Where was your first DJ slot?

Don’t remember exactly but it should have been 1994 at the Pussycat Bar in Madrid maybe, a mod club at that time.

3. What was your most memorable DJ spot?

Well, very difficult to choose one. I remember great nights at Euroyeye, La Beat Bespoke. Most of the nights here in Madrid, where we have the best people around in the parties.

4. What so far, has been your worst DJ experience?

I am very easy going, I enjoy nearly everything everywhere, so hard to think about a bad experience. I need very little to make my day or night.

5. Your favourite scene DJ’s and why?

Well, there are many great DJs around, but Sebas Aviles from Mallorca is great, a very good friend of mine indeed, he can make everybody dance for hours, and never fails. Also Stephan Golowka from Frankfurt, Lolo from La Coruña and Rob Bailey from London, all play my favourite music.

6. What has shaped your DJ sound and why?

Don’t know really what, but step by step I went to play mainly psych, freakbeat & garage when I DJ. That’s what I really like most.

7. What was your best ever find/discovery?

There were so many great finds in my life, I’m always looking for records, every time I travel I look for record shops and flea markets, I was very happy the day I got the Spanish pressing of Scots of St James – Tic Toc for a couple of Euros in a well known shop in Madrid, together with many other great singles at a fantastic bargain price.

8. Who was your biggest influence musically and your favourite artist(s)?

I must be honest, Los Flechazos were a very big influence in my life, as in most of the people in my age into mod/60s from Spain. Also the Small Faces, Fab4 and The Who. That brought me to all the rest.

9. Do you collect specific labels/artists/genres?

Mainly 60’s freakbeat, psych and garage, but also soul and R&B, punk and power pop, folk. Original pressings always, and better in picture sleeves if singles.

10. Where can folks currently catch your DJ set?

Well, I have uploaded many records from my collection to my youtube channel: youtube.com/user/MushroomMachineClub
Not all from my DJ set, but many things in my set are there.

11. What is the record you would most like to own?

All the records I like and I still don’t have, all of them!

12.  Please give us a top 5 all time favourite’s and a current top 5 spins?

Top 5 Tracks of All Time:

1. Tickets – El rigor de las Desdichas (Columbia, 1969)
2. Shocking Blue – I Saw Your Face (Pink Elephant, 1971)
3. Los Chicos – Quiero un Poco de tu Amor (RCA, 1971)
4. The Moon – Walking Around (Imperial, 1968)
5. Nazz – Forget All About It (SGC 1968)

Current Top 5 Tracks:

1. Caleb – Woman of Distinction (Philips, 1967)
2. Tintern Abbey - Vacuum Cleaner (Deram, 1967)
3. Open Mind - Magic Potion (Philips, 1969)
4. Complex - Witch’s Spell (Private label, 1970)
5. Small Faces - Son of a Baker (Immediate, 1968)

DJ Promo Links
facebook.com/miguel.ygarzagutierrez

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drrobert

I run The New Untouchables organization and events like the Brighton Mod Weekender, Le Beat Bespoké Festival (and compilation series of the same name) and I co-organize Euro Ye Ye with the Trouble & Tea crew. I have run many clubs over the last 20 years in London, where I live and current nights include Timebox, Zoo Zoo, Crossfire, 100 Club and Mousetrap allnighter which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011. I have been lucky to DJ all over the globe including Japan, Canada, USA and Europe and met some great people on my journey. I run RnB Records to offset my vinyl addiction: newuntouchables.com/rnbrecords for rare vintage vinyl.

More Posts - Website - Twitter - Facebook

Reggie King – Looking For A Dream CD

As most of you will know, Reggie King was the lead singer of The Action. They were a band that should have been more commercially successful, but it never materialised. However, their legacy to British pop music and mod has been felt for decades. It has really only been in the last 15 years or so that The Action have been given something like the credit and respect they deserved, thanks in part to our own Dr Robert and people like the late Ian Hebditch and his surviving partner Jane Shepherd. Now we can add another name to that list of dedicated Action fans. This collection of recently rediscovered demos has been meticulously restored by Peter Wild with help from Peter Reynolds and Ian Stead. The collection released by Circle Records is an astonishing and important piece of British pop history. To give it some context, Reggie left The Action in 1968 and released a solo LP in 1971. These 15 tracks were recorded in 1969, or at least that is the best guess. No one can be absolutely certain. What is certain, is that this album clearly indicates exactly where Reggie was musically at that time. It seems to me that Reggie was not only a contemporary of, but also a competitor with Steve Marriott and Ray Davis and in my opinion, they travelled similar roads musically, although Marriott and Davis won the commercial popularity contest as single and album sales will attest.

The reason I make this comparison is because much of this album would not have looked out of place alongside ‘Autumn Stone’ or ‘The Self Preservation Society ‘ for example. Although they are demos, they are complete, produced and arranged works that are both of their time, but could easily stand up along side some of Paul Weller’s more recent wistful work. ’22 Dreams’ LP springs to mind. I think musically, the Modfather would relate to this collection totally. ‘Looking For A Dream’ is packed full of pastoral shades. It is not folksy by any means, but it has all the best qualities of a collection of songs that were a precursor to the classic singer-songwriter period of pop. All the songs were written by Reggie King and this shows what a magnificent and under-rated songwriter he was. ‘Get Up, Get Away’ easily matches Ray Davis or Marriott at their jolly music hall best. ‘All Up To Heaven’ is another perfect example, while ‘In And Out’ is just sublime and arguably the best track. I like the fact that, in the sleeve notes, Peter Wild accepts that one or two tracks are purely ‘the best we could get them’ in terms of sound quality which is a very honest assessment. This is definitely an album for not just Action fans as a historical artefact , but serious music lovers who will really listen to the songs and appreciate the quality. We really lost a ‘national treasure’ when Reggie past away. This CD proves it.

Alfa 9 – Gone To Ground CD

Seven years is a long time between albums for any band. So it is the case with Alfa 9 who finally return from their sabbatical….well okay not a sabbatical so much, but there are those for whom life must never get in the way of their career and those, like Alfa 9 who have rolled with life’s ups and downs, but never lost sight of what they wanted to do. What a joy it is to see them back with a new LP of wonderfully crafted and produced songs. For those not aware of Alfa 9, the Newcastle-Under-Lyne quartet’s debut LP ‘Then We Begin’ was critically acclaimed. They toured with Coral and Charlatans and looked as if things were going to really take off. Unfortunately the rigours of extensive touring caught up with them and that thing I mentioned earlier, life. This new 12 track offering is easily on a par with that debut LP, if not better. Alfa 9 are a nice combination of influences that shine throughout. Almost like a fine wine, you can almost taste the flavours; the Byrds, Charlatans, Stone Roses, Rain Parade, La’s, Crosby Stills and Nash, Gram Parsons. ‘El Morocco’ gets the album off to a flying start, a real Byrds-influenced song that highlights another aspect of Alfa 9′s admirable qualities – vocal harmonies, which are exquisitely executed. ‘Seedless’ is a wistful, dreamy corker, while ‘Old Man Blues’ comes out of left-field compared to the rest of the tracks as a rocking blues belter which is lyrically very clever and astutely observed. If ‘The Castle’ had been released in 1996, it would have been top twenty material, complementing and capturing the sound of the aforementioned Stone Roses, Charlatans, Ride et al. If any of the influencing bands mentioned are among your favs, watch out for this one, Alfa 9 ‘Gone To Ground’. I think you may be seeing and hearing a lot more about them in the near future and remember, you saw it here first. The album is out on general release in March this year on Blow Up Records. Cat No: BU066CDPW.

Electric Stars – Sonic Candy Soul CD

I am always interested when a new release from Detour Records lands on my desk. While they are known for unearthing great obscure and unreleased or long-forgotten punk and mod revival tracks. Detour also have a healthy catalogue of terrific LPs ranging from Long Tall Shorty to Makin’ Time. This album by Electric Stars was of particular interest as I had not heard about this Manchester band until the CD arrived. This is as good a slice of British indie rock as you’re likely to hear anywhere. The songs and the production on the eleven tracks have pretty much incorporated every influence you could think of from British rock music of the last 60 years. They have thrown it into a big pot, given it a stir and the results are spectacular. If the great British NIMS (Not Into Mod) ever get to hear this band, they would consign their crap Coldplay CDs to the recycling bin where they belong. Included in the set are the two songs that became Electric Stars first single: ‘Stoned Again’ a lovely relaxed ballad and ‘Between The Streets’ which has a nice joyful late-sixties feel to it. However, for me, the real gem on this album is the last track ‘Isolation’. Again it is a ballad, but it is simply the best bitter-sweet love song I’ve heard since Verve did ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’. I don’t think it is going too far to say it’s a work of absolute perfection. A song so complete I can’t imagine it being improved. Now if this had been written and performed by someone like maybe Robbie Williams (when he was at his peak) it would have been a million seller. I’m not the easiest of people to win over, but when something this good comes along, I found it hard to resist. The youtube link is the full album version of this song. If nothing else, I shall catch an Electric Stars gig at some point just to hear ‘Isolation’ live.

theelectricstars.com
facebook.com/The-Electric-Stars
twitter.com/theelectricstar
detour-records.co.uk
youtube.com/electricstars

Rhythm Shakers – Flipsville CD

Oh man ! Make sure you get your hands on tickets for Le Beat Bespoke Weekender 9 because if this rockin’, rollin, strollin’, boppin’ album is anything to go by, Rhythm Shakers are going to make a big impression here come the Easter holidays. This is a good old fashioned rockin’ R&B set that will have Mark Lamarr jumpin’ (if he doesn’t already know about them !) The driving force behind the band is Marlene Perez. She wrote all bar four of the tracks and what a voice! It’s taylor-made for this kind of thing. Every now-and-then, Marlene pulls out that husky growl that is not over-used, but timed to perfection. The backing and production is an amalgam of rockabilly meets the Ventures meets Brenda Lee at her rockin’ best. If anything Senorita Perez has a more low-down and dirty sound to her delivery than Ms Lee could have ever hoped to achieve. The real challenge reviewing this CD and one I gladly accept is simply this: Pick a winner from this lot ! It is rare indeed when you can’t find a fault in any of the songs. Listen to ‘My Sweet Revenge’ and you know the lady means every last word of it. She wants a ‘Real Rockin’ Daddy’ and you hope one turns up damn quick ! Even when Rhythm Shakers dip their toes in the covers pool, they come up with a lovely interpretation of Ray Charles’ ‘Mess Around’. The lead track ‘No Time On You’ really sets the tone for this collection of 12 numbers and I urge you to at least check them out via the links. One thing is for sure. I’ll be the first one in the door when they open on 30 March 2013.

facebook.com/The-Rhythm-Shakers
wildpresents.com/therhythmshakers
youtube.com/therhythmshakers

Top 10 Favourite Tracks of 2012

As we move into 2013, I thought I would present my Top 10 favourite tracks of 2012. Of course we all have our opinions and our favs, and I accept not everyone will agree with me.

They are in no particular order, but for what it’s worth, here goes:

1. Nick Waterhouse – ‘Is That Clear’.

The Bay Area resident came to the UK early in 2012 and made a big impression on the London scene and this was my pick from his EP.

2. Jasmine Kara – ‘Ordinary Joe’

Also early in the year, Jasmine Kara had a showcase for her LP ‘Blues Ain’t Nothin’ But A Good Woman Gone Bad’. From that came a very tidy interpretation of the Terry Callier classic.

3. Last Of The Troubadors – ‘Only Remedy’

The latest incarnation for the resilient and creative Darron Connett, this song was from their first EP ‘Sooner The Better’. While all four tracks deserve a mention, this was my choice.

4. French Boutik – ‘Le Clope’

Much like Last Of The Troubadors, French Boutik came up with a four track EP of high quality. This one got my vote by the narrowest of margins.

5. Recusants – Barmaid

I saw these guys sharing the bill with Spitfires back in October. I know they are an out-and-out indie band, but there was something about this song that got me hooked. Indie power pop at it’s finest.

6. Spitfires – ‘Sirens’

While ‘Spark To Start’ was the lead track on this double A-side single, this always was my fav. Power, aggression, three minutes of post-punk, Jam/ Clash/ Chords influenced perfection.

7. Filthy Six – ‘Girlfriend’

A latecomer into my top 10. A fabulous cover of the Michael Jackson hit from the 1980s. Cleverly incorporating the guitar riff from Archie Bell and The Drells ‘Tighten Up’ (not sampled I might add), this a the kind of funky stuff that Acid Jazz built its reputation upon.

8. Frowning Clouds – ‘Snake Charmer’

This was my pick from the LP ‘Listen Closlier’. I’m really looking forward to seeing our Aussie cousins live at Le Beat Bespoke 9 during Easter.

9. Strypes – ‘You Can’t Judge A Book By The Cover’

People still talk about the Crossfire Allnighter back in October when these lads from the Emerald Isle fairly torn the place up with a blistering set, and this track was one of many highlights. They will be back for Le Beat Bespoke 9 as well.

10. Electric Stars – ‘Isolation’

My final choice is this incredible bitter-sweet ballad from the Manchester-based band. On the basis that nothing is perfect, this is as close as it gets for me.

All tracks listed are available via the usual online and digital download outlets.

So what can we look forward to in 2013? Plenty, is my answer. The rumour is Mr Weller will be unveiling his latest work this year. Last Of The Troubadors will be releasing their latest EP, which will be even better than the first.

Stone Foundation, whose magnificent ‘Three Shades Of..’ from 2011 will be surpassed by a new LP that will see them build on their success thus far. Alpha 9 whose brand of harmonies and jangly guitars a-la-Byrds will have anew LP out in March. The recently discovered-thought-lost demo sessions by Reggie King will also be out soon.

Then of course Le Beat Bespoke 9 will be a belter. The line-up is superb, but if you like rhythm and blues and rock and roll, Saturday night is the one not to be missed. The Wild Records Revue featuring Gizzelle, Omar and the Stringpoppers and Rhythm Shakers is going to be something else. Be warned, get your tickets early for that one.

Graham Lentz

Like many of his generation, The Jam started Graham's love affair with all things mod back in 1977. He is the author of 'The Influential Factor - A History Of Mod' which was originally published in 2002. An extract from the book was re-printed in Paolo Hewitt's 'The Sharper Word - revised edition' in 2011. Being a self-confessed 'broad-church' mod, Graham's interests range from Modern Jazz to today's up-coming new bands and everything in between. Although he has a passion for mod history, he also has a passion for the new. Whether it's music, clubs, media of every kind, clothing, scooters or art and photography, Graham supports, promotes and encourages as much as he can, because that's how we keep going. 'Give it a chance' is his motto. If it's not for you, that's cool, at least you tried it.

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Scootering Magazine  - February 2013

Sadly, time and space prevented a review of the January issue of this great mag, but thankfully, I did manage to get February’s edition in time for the latest NUTSMAG updates. So, we begin by looking at the usual features and this month, the ‘Scootering Sounds’ (records that shaped the broad church we all love so much) focuses on the Virgin Records reissue of The Who’s ‘My Generation’ in 1980. Like many, I too bought it at the time and still have my copy. And I agree that it had a massive impact, ‘Out In The Street is still one of my Who favourites. Moving on, Sticky’s tongue-in-cheek feature on how to spot other road users had me roaring with laughter. For all you Lammy owners, you may well enjoy the tribute to the series one. Sarge has been as busy as ever covering the Northern Noise event at Southend and the Christmas Mod Ball at the 100 Club with Steve Craddock headlining. Wolfy jetted off to the USA to catch up with Mr Townshend and Mr Daltry as they begin their mammoth world tour of ‘Quadrophenia’. My pick of the featured scoots is the Lammy GP 150 at the back of the mag. It’s a beaut. To cap it all off, there’s a free double sided poster to go alongside the calendar from the January issue.

Blues Magazine – Issue 3

One of the primary reasons for reviewing this publication, is due to the feature article by Claudia Elliott on the impact of the blues on British bands favoured by mods during the first half of the sixties. As you would expect, all the usual suspects get a mention. Small Faces, High Numbers / The Who, Yardbirds, Meaden, Guy Stevens, Scene and Eel Pie clubs etc. Authors; Barnes, Hewitt and Hellier all get a nod, and on that basis, any reader who does not have prior knowledge will be well informed by this piece. The link between Alexis Korner and Cyril Davis’ contribution in launching many careers that started with a love of blues is a fact often over-looked and it’s inclusion here adds weight to the argument that without them, British music may not have been the powerhouse it became during the decade. That said, the article is accurate with the facts and for those who know nothing about this aspect of mod, it’s a good starting point for the more inquisitive reader who wants to find out more. If you are into blues music, then this magazine will be of interest though. Three other very good articles on John Mayall, Chris Barber and the Blue Horizon label feature prominently and South London’s mod/blues purveyors Get Go have a nice one-pager. Blues Magazine is published by monthly by Future Publishing.

Graham Lentz

Like many of his generation, The Jam started Graham's love affair with all things mod back in 1977. He is the author of 'The Influential Factor - A History Of Mod' which was originally published in 2002. An extract from the book was re-printed in Paolo Hewitt's 'The Sharper Word - revised edition' in 2011. Being a self-confessed 'broad-church' mod, Graham's interests range from Modern Jazz to today's up-coming new bands and everything in between. Although he has a passion for mod history, he also has a passion for the new. Whether it's music, clubs, media of every kind, clothing, scooters or art and photography, Graham supports, promotes and encourages as much as he can, because that's how we keep going. 'Give it a chance' is his motto. If it's not for you, that's cool, at least you tried it.

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Uncle Stan, the Hip Hit Record Man


Stan Lewis formed Jewel Records in 1963, naming it after a chain of grocery stores in Chicago that he saw from the passenger seat of Leonard Chess’ Cadillac. He is, arguably, one of the most significant figures in the history of R&B, or even American music, period. Meeting him was more than I expected from my visit to Louisiana a few years back to stay with my good friend, Hammond player, Bill Bush.

The interview location is Lee’s Lounge on East King’s Highway, Shreveport, Louisiana. As soon as he walks in I know it’s him. White suit, neat shoulder-length white hair and alligator shoes – I began by asking Stan how he got started.

“I got a corner news stand and sold magazines in the 1930s, we also had a veterinary next door and I cleaned the dog pens, during the depression things were tough,” says Lewis. More and more rounds delivering newspapers helped him save $2500 aged 17. His next step up was slot machines and five 10/50 Wurlitzer jukeboxes.

While buying 78rpm records for these machines in 1948 he visited J&M Record store to pick up the latest blues records–the shop happened to be for sale, for exactly $2500. It was located at 728 Texas Street, Shreveport and became Stan’s first shop.

“One day, Leonard Chess pulls up outside,” says Stan. “This would have been mid 50s, and he was sharing the trip through the southern states with a guy called Lee Agulnick. Leonard was pushing a record by Muddy Waters and Lee was plugging a record called ‘Long Gone’. Leonard would come through Shreveport about every three months. I had a contract at that time on Sonny Boy Williamson, which I gave to Leonard and that would prove very good for both of them of course. Leonard covered the South and Phil the North.”

“Leonard Chess asked me to come up to this convention in Chicago. I saw the Rolling Stones record their sessions at Chess at 21/22 South Michigan, and Muddy Waters, the Moonglows, Etta James, on yeah; I saw them all right there in the booth.”

It was the late 50s and Lewis was by now selling records mail order. “I had started to buy time, about 15 minutes of airtime on KWKH in the afternoon and these guys were real happy to get their records played because stations didn’t play what they called ‘race music’ at that time in the 50s.

His choice of music didn’t sit well with the ‘good ole’ boys’ and Lewis, a Roman Catholic, soon found himself on the wrong end of a pillow case. But the Klansmen didn’t stop him, and he was soon buying airspace on KWKH and KAAY in Little Rock, Arkansas, which was a more powerful station, and WLAC in Nashville.

By 1963 Lewis had the record store, a mail order business and his own label. I asked Stan why he eventually had Ronn and Jewel, both hosting R&B stars [Paula was his pop label]. “If you had too many records on the same label you got accused of payola, bribing the DJs so that was why Leonard had Checker, Argo and Atlantic had Atco, Modern had Kent, etc.” When Chess opened another plant in Nashville Stan got 10 per cent as a ‘thank you’ for helping establish Chess in the South.

He approached Bob Smith at KCIJ [later to become the fabled, Wolfman Jack], to negotiate a PI deal, which he explains meant Payment Per Inquiry. For every call that Stan received from a potential customer, Smith got a cut. The transmitter was a massive 250,000W unit in Mexico, illegal in the USA, while the station was in Texas. “It was probably the biggest transmitter in the world, even reaching Europe,” he says (Wolfman Jack could be heard in certain parts of the UK by radio hams).

The standout thing for me about talking to Lewis face-to-face was the stories behind some of the tracks that I’ve loved for years.

“I remember one night in record store I was closing up and this guy knocked on the window,” says Lewis. “Well, this good looking negro (sic) fella was waving a record at me. Now I don’t know if it was ‘cause I was tired or what but it didn’t do nothin’ for me. I thanked him, and I think I must have said to him, ‘take it to BB at KOKA’.

BB Davis was one of the first successful black DJs in Louisiana and he took up the story when I met him. “Stan didn’t dig the track,” says Davis. “I was playing my show on KOKA and it was near to quittin’ time when this guy tapped on the window. I let him in cause he had a record and said I’d listen. It was ‘Nothing Takes the Place of You’ and I just melted, I thought it was heartbreaking and I played it at least six or seven times.”

Stan Lewis remembers what happened next: “My phone at the shop started to ring off the wall, the girl asked me if I’ve ever heard of the track that everyone was callin’ about by Toussaint McCall, Nothing Takes The Place of You, luckily he’d left a business card and I grabbed my cheque book, a contract and took off on the highway to Monro. I caught him and singed him right there at the roadside on the bonnet of my Cadillac and that was how the track was released as the third single on Ronn, and it became a hit.”

The prolific releases from the trio of labels during the 1960s made Stan successful. He added Ronn Records in 1967 (named after brother, Ron–Paula is Stan’s ex-wife), as an outlet for smooth R&B and jazz.

The story of Jewel continues through the 70s and 80s and Lewis sold up in the late 90s and states that Len Ficco has the label now. Right at the end of the interview he drops the news that he has unreleased masters of Lightnin’ Hopkins and Ernie Johnson and would still like to get back into the business, taking advantage of the latest technology (that’s another story, for another day).

Not everyone in Shreveport likes Stan. You don’t run a multi-million-dollar business for 40 years without making enemies. But I have to admit that I found him charming. I reckon Uncle Stan ‘The Hip Hit Record Man’ is a real diamond, or should that be a Jewel?

©Martin Gavin 2006 and 2012

Martin’s separate interview with the DJ, BB ‘Bird Brain’ Davis, will appear in a future issue. Martin’s full interview with Stan Lewis is available on Soul Source: 
www.soul-source.co.uk

Scotch Martin

Since the local youth club in the early-eighties Martin’s been Djing with records of one sort or another. Spots at the CCI National Mod Rallies across Britain in the 80s were followed in 1990 by the first in a line of successful northern soul and mod clubs in Glasgow. With four others he started Goodfoot in 91, with Acid Jazz-influenced playlists of Blow Up in London, and Brighton Beach in Leeds. Goodfoot arguably paved the way for a new generation of mod-influenced clubs in Glasgow over the past 20 years. Living in London in the late 90s Martin DJ’d at neuvo-modernist clubs including Where’s Jude and Lordy Lord, as well as regularly spinning at Duffer of St. George parties and other happenings. A career highlight was supporting legendary organist, Jimmy Smith, as well as pulling off 10 consecutive club nights during the 1995 Glasgow Jazz Festival. By 2001, back in Glasgow, Caledoniasoul launched. A definitive milestone in the Scottish soul scene, the club ran for six years and brought Butch, Mick Smith, Mick H, Arthur Fenn, Mike Ritson, Dave Rimmer and Ady Croasdell to Scotland for the first time to experience the sweaty, full-on atmosphere for themselves. As a journalist Martin has always written about music. In 2004 he tracked down singer and organist, Bill Bush, whose soulful, jazzy rarity, I’m Waiting on Ronn, was hitting on the northern soul scene. After visiting Bill in the USA and interviewing him for Manifesto he brought the band over to perform in the UK, complete with Hammond B3, and has helped Bill profit for the first time from the 1968 b-side. Martin is married to Caroline, has two children, lives in the London suburbs. Still collecting after 30 years!

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Mike Stax – San Diego, California - Editor of Ugly Things Magazine, Singer of the Loons

1. I know you were born in the UK, please tell us a little bit about your background and what inspired you to move to California?

I was born in Watford, but lived all over England, eventually winding up near Leeds. I became interested in ‘60s music as a kid, and by the time I was in my teens I was a rabid fan of bands like the Pretty Things, Yardbirds, Downliners Sect, Them, Stones et al. One night in late 1979 I heard the Crawdaddys on John Peel and was blown away that a new band from California could play ‘60s R&B with such authenticity. I’d been trying to form a band to play that kind of music but couldn’t find people. After getting all the Crawdaddys records I wrote them a fan letter c/o Bomp Records. A few weeks later I received a reply from their singer/guitarist Ron Silva asking if I’d be interested in coming to San Diego and being their bass player. I was 18 years old and had just got out of school. A couple of months later I was on a plane to the States. That was in November 1980.

2. Tell us about your current band the Loons and your future plans?

After playing bass for many years with the Crawdaddys, the Tell-Tale Hearts and the Hoods, I decided I wanted to be the singer and frontman for a change, so I formed the Loons in 1996. We released our first album in 1998, Love’s Dead Leaves, produced by Ebbot Lundborg of Soundtrack of our Lives. There were a few lineup changes after that, but for the last ten years or so it’s been me, Anja Dixson (bass), Marc Schroeder (guitar), Chris Marsteller (guitar) and Mike Kamoo (drums). Our most recent album, Red Dissolving Rays of Light, was released by Bomp in 2010. We have a new album about two-thirds completed and hope to get that released in early 2013, and maybe play in Europe again then.

3. When did Ugly Things magazine start and why?

In March of 2013 it’ll have been 30 years since the first issue. I started Ugly Things in 1983 because I wanted to spread the word about all the great ‘60s era bands that seemed to have been ignored by most of the world – bands like the Pretty Things, Q65, the Outsiders, the Seeds, the Monks and the Music Machine, to name just a few.

4. What was your favourite edition and why?

My favourite edition is always the one I’m working on, because that’s the one all my passion is wrapped up in. Plus it’s a case of always trying to make each issue better than last. But if I had to pick a personal favourite in might be Issue 13, which had a huge story on the Birds. I really enjoyed interviewing Kim Gardner, Tony Munroe and Ali McKenzie. They really opened up to me, as well as sharing many great photos and clippings from their scrapbooks. I was really proud with how the story turned out. Looking at this issue brings back some great memories for me—sad ones too as Kim is now gone. The last issue (#32) with my interview with Johnny Echols of Love is also one of my favourites.

5. It’s well documented that your favourite band is the Pretty Things, what is about the Pretty Things that make them your seminal band?

The Pretty Things embody everything that is cool and exciting about the bands and the music of the ‘60s, and rock & roll in general. There was purity to everything they did—they never seemed to be motivated by ego or a hunger for fame, they just sort of let things happen and didn’t care about the consequences. They’re still the same way, and that’s inspiring to me. There’s no compromise at all in their music, be it the early raw R&B records, the psychedelic stuff, or the more progressive records that followed. There were few other bands that could master all of those forms so definitively. There’s something about their image, their lifestyle, their attitude and their whole approach to creating music that I can identify with absolutely,

6. When did the very useful 60’s compilation database start on the Ugly Things website and why?

The Searchin’ for Shakes database was started by Menachem Turchick in the late ‘90s and has been a part of the Ugly Things website ever since. It’s an amazing resource for ‘60s fans because you can cross-reference thousands of tracks, bands, and compilations, along with info about original release dates, labels, etc.

7. There is a phenomenal amount of record reviews in each issue for example along with a big team of authors, how long does it take to complete each issue?

We publish the mag twice a year, and it takes 5-6 months to complete each issue. As soon as I send an issue to the printer, I’m already starting work on the next one.

8. I enjoyed the Misunderstood story immensely anything similar in the pipeline?

I’m pleased you enjoyed the Misunderstood story so much. It was a huge undertaking. I spent about four or five years researching that one, interviewing all the band members along with dozens of other people who were associated with them. I was living and breathing the Misunderstood every day, logging hours of long distance phone interviews to New Zealand and the UK, and even traveling to Thailand to interview Rick Brown, as well as making numerous road trips to the Riverside area to meet with other band members. I don’t have anything else in the pipeline that involves that kind of legwork, but whenever I cover a band I try to do it as definitively as possible.

9. You have met many great musicians from legendary bands through Ugly Things magazine over the years any funny tales you can share with us?

Hanging out with Kim Gardner was always a blast. He’d have me in stitches. It was a bit like being an extra in that Dudley Moore movie, Arthur. It was hard to keep up with him. Any conversation with Sky Saxon was always memorable, too. He was perpetually stoned. He’d go into these long bizarre monologues about saving the dogs so we could save the planet.

10. Any further music related projects like the Philip Debarge & Pretty Things and The Misunderstood albums to follow on the record label in the near future?

Recently I’ve been focusing on seven-inch releases. Last year we did a reissue of the Sloths’ “Makin’ Love” single including a repro of the original sleeve. Next up is the Bees’ “Voices Green and Purple,” which should be out by the end of November 2012, with any luck!

11. Other than the Pretty Things what other old masters have impressed you in recent years?

A couple of years ago Anja and I took our then four-year-old son to see Roky Erickson play an ice cream social for a bunch of 3-7 year old kids. He played about eight songs, including “You’re Gonna Miss Me” and then took questions from the kids. That was one of the most fun and surreal shows ever.

12. What new bands have really grabbed your attention?

I’m really impressed with the Strypes. They’re playing exactly the kind of music that got me excited when I was their age and wound up making me move to the States. There are a lot of other really good bands out there these days though. I love the Frowning Clouds from Australia, the Higher State, of course, and also Paul Messis. There’s a new young band from LA that are really cool, too, called the Shag Rats.

13. You will find Ugly Things in the good London record shops but these are becoming few and far between now. How many issues of the magazine do you produce a year and what is the best way to order a copy?

Ugly Things comes out twice a year. If you can’t find it at your local hip record emporium, order it online at www.ugly-things.com

Links

Facebook: Ugly Things
Facebook: The Loons

Next Events:

Ugly Things #34 out November 2012 with the Bees, the Blue Aces, the Haunted, Cyril Jordan on the British Invasion, the Others, the Viletones, Milan the Leather Boy and more.

Cool Yule with your psychotic friends. The Loons at Bar Pink, 3829 30th Street – San Diego, CA 92104 - December 22, 2012.

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drrobert

I run The New Untouchables organization and events like the Brighton Mod Weekender, Le Beat Bespoké Festival (and compilation series of the same name) and I co-organize Euro Ye Ye with the Trouble & Tea crew. I have run many clubs over the last 20 years in London, where I live and current nights include Timebox, Zoo Zoo, Crossfire, 100 Club and Mousetrap allnighter which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011. I have been lucky to DJ all over the globe including Japan, Canada, USA and Europe and met some great people on my journey. I run RnB Records to offset my vinyl addiction: newuntouchables.com/rnbrecords for rare vintage vinyl.

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In the Lap of the Mods – A new book about 1960s group, The Action

‘In the Lap of the Mods’ tells the inside story of the 1960s’ most famous unsung heroes–the Action. This newest and much anticipated addition to the story of British popular music has ‘Christmas present’ written all over it. It was launched in central London in October with Pete Watson (guitar) and Roger Powell (drums) from the band were there to sign copies for the lucky people on the guest list and NUTSmag editor, Scotch Martin, spoke to them, and the author Jane Shepherd, about the project.

These days we’re falling over books about 60s mods, 80s mods, scooters, soul, psych, etc. It seems anyone who ever sewed a patch on a parka is writing their memoirs, and fair play to them. So do we need another book about mods? Of course we do, because this one is no ordinary book, and its protagonists were no ordinary mods.

By the mid 60s the Action became just about as big as it’s possible to get without so-called ‘mainstream success’. At one point it appeared they had it all their own way–signed to Parlophone they attracted the attention of Beatles record producer, George Martin, who then stuck with them through five failed singles, presumably as baffled by the lack of chart success as were the band themselves.

The white guitar-combo from Kentish Town successfully tackled complex, highly-orchestrated US soul tracks with a degree of confidence, arrogance even, that’s still hard to fathom. Filling brass and string parts with stunning harmonies they often succeeded in bettering the originals in my opinion, and in every case presented their own unique, soulful take on the music of Detroit and Chicago.

In spite of talent, style, charm and more than a few lucky breaks, a career at the forefront of British music going into the 70s slipped through their fingers. In 1968 the original group disbanded: the dream was over and the legend was born.

The background to how ‘In the Lap of the Mods’ came about over almost 20 years includes as much mystery, co-incidence and tragedy as the Action’s own story. It’s been a labour of love for co-author, fashion designer Jane Shepherd. Inspired by her late partner, Ian Hebditch, and with support from the band members and fans, Jane has delivered a stunning, informative and long overdue insight.

At the launch party in 229 Great Portland Street I asked her how she felt now that the book is published: “Thank f**k for that,” she laughs, but is clearly proud of it and of securing Ian’s legacy given the research and commitment he put into the project before his death.

“Roger and Pete approached us about doing a book in 2000 but we’d already been compiling information for about 10 years prior to that,” says Jane. “I remember being in Fun House Records in Margate and I picked up a copy of ‘The Ultimate Action’ LP. Ian said to me, ‘that’s the best f***kin’ live band I’ve ever seen’. I knew Ian had seen every band around at that time as he was involved in running the Midlands scene in the late 60s, so for him to say that was really something. He’d seen them over 40 times in their career.

“This isn’t a conventional book about a band, because they didn’t ‘make it’. To understand why the band didn’t achieve commercial success we had to understand who they were, as mods and as people. They were purists, constantly seeking self-improvement: the Action didn’t do covers, they did their own versions of other people’s songs.”

The book features contributions from all the original members–the late Reggie King and Michael Evans, plus Roger Powell, Pete Watson and Alan King, Ian Whiteman and Martin Stone. There’s comment from contemporaries including Pete Townshend and fans such as Phil Collins and Paul Weller.

The Action was exclusive, deliberately pedantic–and the mods got it. They were hugely talented and well-rehearsed, but more than that the quality-control was second to none. For me, as a die-hard soul fan, the Action has always been the exception to the rule–the band that really got it.

In the next edition of NUTsMag more from Jane Shepherd, as well as Martin’s interview with Pete and Roger from the Action and a full review of the book. In the Lap of the Mods’ is available to order on Amazon or from www.theactionbook.com priced £35.00, and will be available in all major book shops before Christmas.

Scotch Martin

Since the local youth club in the early-eighties Martin’s been Djing with records of one sort or another. Spots at the CCI National Mod Rallies across Britain in the 80s were followed in 1990 by the first in a line of successful northern soul and mod clubs in Glasgow. With four others he started Goodfoot in 91, with Acid Jazz-influenced playlists of Blow Up in London, and Brighton Beach in Leeds. Goodfoot arguably paved the way for a new generation of mod-influenced clubs in Glasgow over the past 20 years. Living in London in the late 90s Martin DJ’d at neuvo-modernist clubs including Where’s Jude and Lordy Lord, as well as regularly spinning at Duffer of St. George parties and other happenings. A career highlight was supporting legendary organist, Jimmy Smith, as well as pulling off 10 consecutive club nights during the 1995 Glasgow Jazz Festival. By 2001, back in Glasgow, Caledoniasoul launched. A definitive milestone in the Scottish soul scene, the club ran for six years and brought Butch, Mick Smith, Mick H, Arthur Fenn, Mike Ritson, Dave Rimmer and Ady Croasdell to Scotland for the first time to experience the sweaty, full-on atmosphere for themselves. As a journalist Martin has always written about music. In 2004 he tracked down singer and organist, Bill Bush, whose soulful, jazzy rarity, I’m Waiting on Ronn, was hitting on the northern soul scene. After visiting Bill in the USA and interviewing him for Manifesto he brought the band over to perform in the UK, complete with Hammond B3, and has helped Bill profit for the first time from the 1968 b-side. Martin is married to Caroline, has two children, lives in the London suburbs. Still collecting after 30 years!

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As Crossfire nights go, this one was up there with the best, a stellar line up of top DJs and two live sets. My main job was to check out the bands and man, am I so glad that I did!

First up was the Strypes. I had heard a lot about these lads. They’ve been causing rumblings in the music biz, which is a rare thing these days. Hailing from Cavan, Ireland, they have been quite a success story in their homeland as well as causing a stir wherever they’ve played. With an average age of 15 (that’s right, 15 !) and a new EP just released, I was keen to find out what all the fuss was about for myself. So, there they were, looking like a hybrid of every sixties pop band you can think of. Their influences were not so much worn on the sleeve, as worn on every inch of them from head to toe.

As for the music, I’ve not heard such a blistering set from such a young band for a couple of years. If you ever wondered what it was like to see the Stones, Yardbirds, The Who, Them or any of the sixties beat bands before they hit the big time, then the Strypes will give you a damn good idea. This is what ‘blue-eyed’ R&B should sound like. Opening with ‘Little Queenie’, the lads barely stopped for breath tearing through their set, which I might add, was very well thought out. The lead track from their EP ‘You Can’t Judge a Book By the Cover’ plus ‘Got Love If You Want It’ with a drop of ‘I’m The Face’ neatly tucked in the middle got deserved rapturous responses from the crowd. At one point the drummer was the only one who didn’t swap instruments or take lead vocals, such is the confidence of the band. If you didn’t get to see them this time, make sure you do. You really won’t be disappointed.

Next up were freakbeat legends the Sorrows. Way-back-when, the Sorrows were known for their particular brand of beat, which in truth, was way ahead of it’s time and was a good contrast to the Strypes. Sorrows fans would not have been disappointed as the band included all the favs from their illustrious career. ‘Baby’, ‘She’s Got the Action’, ‘You’ve Got What I Want’ and ‘Take a Heart’. Don Fardon was in fine form and by the end of the set, it’s fair to say, the Sorrows were worth the price of admission on their own. Instead, here were two bands at very different stages of their careers and both on top, top form.

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Graham Lentz

Like many of his generation, The Jam started Graham's love affair with all things mod back in 1977. He is the author of 'The Influential Factor - A History Of Mod' which was originally published in 2002. An extract from the book was re-printed in Paolo Hewitt's 'The Sharper Word - revised edition' in 2011. Being a self-confessed 'broad-church' mod, Graham's interests range from Modern Jazz to today's up-coming new bands and everything in between. Although he has a passion for mod history, he also has a passion for the new. Whether it's music, clubs, media of every kind, clothing, scooters or art and photography, Graham supports, promotes and encourages as much as he can, because that's how we keep going. 'Give it a chance' is his motto. If it's not for you, that's cool, at least you tried it.

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