FFS, Collaborations DO Work

Months ago I heard about Franz Ferdinand and Sparks (FFS) joining forces, and I was excited and worried. I wasn't surprised as I was aware that Franz were big fans of the brothers. However, when two of your favourite bands get together, it does create internal turmoil. Half of you cannot wait to hear what exceptional music they produce together, but the other half worries you've already built them up too much, and it could end up being a musical flop. Then they released a short video on YouTube called The Domino Effect, which was an excerpt of the song 'The Power Couple', with an amusing video. I was relieved.

It works because they are all clever and nerdy about music. It's odd that a 'young' indie band from Glasgow can create such sweet music with a keyboarding duo from LA, who have been around for 40+ years; but they have. What they have done, is improved upon each other's work. Franz Ferdinand have now lost their seriousness and have embraced satirical whimsy. The Sparks are now exploring with even more sounds. This is what they've produced.

Johnny Delusional: An obsessional love song about someone punching above their weight, something most people can emphasis with, which sounds a lot like how pop used to sound years ago. The music video is mind-bendingly interesting and funny, but that might be partly because I always enjoy looking at Ron. It is however, a perfect metaphor for their album, as you don't know what's coming next. 

Call Girl: This has Franz in its roots, but can't help but think it sounds similar to when Duran Duran reunited and made an album 9 years ago, with the electro, pop-rock showing through. Very clever lyrics, with the title insinuating its about a prostitute, but actually subverts that for another awkward love song. "Why won't you call, girl".

Dictator's Son: A very urgent song from Russell, which is very much a Sparks song, with its satirical lyrics. But improved upon with the vocals from Alex, giving it another interesting level, and the influence of drums.

Little Guy From The Suburbs: A stripped back song, with both singers donning deep voices, giving it a very different feel to the previous songs. It's creepy, and I think even a bit Bowie-esque. It's a nice opportunity to take a breath from the outlandishness. Very good acting in their voices, and you can feel your mood take a drop with them.

Police Encounters: A very art-pop song in sound, as usual from Franz, but laced with lyrics one could easily recognise as Sparks, about having sex with a policeman's wife. Lovely.

Save Me From Myself: Sparks through and through. It has the mix of keyboard sounds, and it tells a story in both the lyrics and the music. However, because of that, it perhaps gets a bit lost on the album. However, bravo to Alex for trying to keep up with Russell's voice as it travels up and down.

So Desu Ne: There are so many disco synths and other effects you almost imagine you're wearing florescent clothing. Probably not much Franz in this song, but I do like the lyrics “Check your blood pressure, Gonna eat your beans and eat your leisure”. It's catchy, it's different, and what more do you want?

The Man Without A Tan: The opening notes put me in mind of The Cure's Love Cats, and that feeling is echoed through the song. This is a great example of both their influences coming together; Sparks with their lyrics, and Franz with their instrument. There are a lot of elements, but they work together. There's rock, pop, 80's, and a few orchestral moments just to give it an artistic flourish.

Things I Won't Get: A lovely list of the things they want, but can't have, and it is a beautiful song that puts a smile on my face. It's just very innocent, where it's not overloaded with music, and you actually get a sense of what they're like. Plus, their harmonies are sweet.

The Power Couple: Those opening notes are the first any of us heard from the 'super group', and this is not how I thought the song would feel. I like the two singing at each other, and it sounds like two different things colliding together. It is a great song, with a hint of the two groups, and a touch of Nick Cave. I've also noted how it sounds like a song called 'A Gory Demise' from Creature Feature, mainly due to its rhythmic, regimental beat.

Collaborations Don't Work: This is the best song on the album. If you want a song that has the sounds of both groups in it, then this is it. It's a brilliantly clever song, with their two sounds warring against each other, with each singer taking swipes at the other. It's a very witty song in concept, musically and lyrically. It's an operetta. Lyrics such as "I don’t need your patronising, I don’t need your agonising" are lovely, if you know what I mean? However, they come together to prove that collaborations do work, and create a glorious union for the end of the song.

Piss Off: As a misanthrope, I always wanted a song like this. Coming after Collaborations Don't Work, it's almost as if they're telling people who didn't think this union would work, to piss off. It's a jolly song, were you can imagine everyone cheering the words 'Piss off!'. The lyrics are sophisticated and acerbic, and the music is top-notch; it's another example of how they have come together. Again, they're great at acting, and the anger gleams through their voices. I love singing along myself. It would be a great point end to the album, but I got the deluxe version, so then they have to come crawling back for an encore.

So Many Bridges: A song which sounds like the mental turmoil of an agonised person, but despite its repeated message, it's a catchy song, and it has got very good lyrics. I do very much like the jazz elements, which have again been mixed with a retro pop vibe. It does slightly put me in mind of Eurythmics, but I'm still not sure why.

King Of The Song: This is a song I could imagine on either a Sparks album or a Franz Ferdinand one, which signifies a job well done. Again, another song free of too many sounds, and a very good example of how to do a pop song well, but then made just that bit more fun.

Look At Me: I like the progression in this song, and I do love Alex's voice in it as well. It has satirical lyrics, where it is essentially begging someone to look at them, in a swipe at modern times. There is again a very 80's feel to this song, which goes well with the twang of the bass.

A Violent Death: I thought the fourth song was creepy, but it sounds quite delightful compared to this. The spoken words by Alex makes it sound like an excerpt from thriller movie, with a brilliant score behind it, featuring a nice mix of piano and keyboard. It makes you uneasy. It's unlike anything I've heard before, and I just love that.

It doesn't happen often, but you can tell listening to the album that they really had fun making it, which shines through. It's nice to listen to a collection of songs, and know that they focused more on enjoying themselves than anything else. It's unexpected and delightful, and you have no way of knowing what sound is coming next in the song, let alone what they next song will be like.

They should be very proud, and it's a shame that it has taken 10 years for this beautiful music to have been made, since the ideas conception. I would hope for more in the future, but I think that's unlikely. I will just continue to enjoy it, and I will treasure the album for many years.

Mark Watson - Flaws

In 2011 I went and saw Mark Watson live. You can read the review here if you want. I loved it. He was a break from the normal stand-up. Most will have a lesser-known stand up perform half an hour of material, before an interval and then the main event. The comedian then slips off, comes back on stage, and then disappears after receiving a few more laughs. Mark Watson does none of that, and it's brilliant. One could be mistaken for thinking he has no clue what is going on; but I think it's more a demonstration that he knows better than most comedians, what is happening.

On Sunday, I went and saw him again at The Gulbenkian, Canterbury, and it was very much a similar format to when I saw him on his 'Request Routes' tour. Not much has changed, apart from having slightly more facial hair, being spectacleless, and less Welsh.

'Flaws' has no definable beginning. Last time he began by speaking to the audience via typing on a laptop screen. This time he came on stage and began jogging on a treadmill, of which a microphone stand placed conveniently in front. This, as he put it, was his warm up. He chatted to the audience, and made general observations about the audience for nearly 10 minutes. He then walked off stage before immediately reappearing and commencing the show.

He is incredibly endearing, and it's hard to not fall in love with him, just a little bit. His body language is always relaxed, and does everything he can to break down the barrier between him and his audience, such as holding the microphone low. Another technique, and perhaps a more sinister one, is looking up members of the audience on Twitter. The amount he knew one member of the audience, such as televisual habits and pets, is a scary reminder of the times we live.

As always, his comedy comes from his real life. To reuse a sentence from my last review of Watson, 'He is very much the raconteur'. However, unlike last time, this was much more personal. In this tour, unsurprisingly, he talks about the flaws which have obviously, over the past year or so, made themselves apparent to him. He shows that there is a faint line between comedy and tragedy, as his main topics for discussion cover his reliance on drink ("If only there was a word like workaholic that describes drinking too much alcohol"), and hating, and losing confidence in, his own work. It then made me look at his 2011 tour in a different, darker, and unexpected light, as the veil was lifted.

But don't be thinking that this is a serious and dark show, because it is quite the opposite. He is refreshingly honest, but perhaps only showing the funny side of his problems. It is isn't until afterwards that you actually realise how frank he was. At the time, it is incredibly funny. Particularly when he opens up about his breaking point, which was at a Thomas the Tank Engine film premier with his toddler.

In a unique twist, he recreates the moment for the audience, for a quick moment of audience participation, props and music. You sit there in awe of what nightmare he has created in just a few moments, and it had the audience in fits of laughter. However, like always with a Canterbury audience, it's hard work for a comedian to get the audience to participate.

The show consists of a lot more than just chronicling his despair from the past year or so, as many of those themes are broken up by tangents about songs, his 'personal' relationship with Madonna, and irritation at Keep Calm merchandise. It is put together beautifully. And unlike a lot comedy shows, it has final message, which is quite enlightening and optimistic; "Being human is bloody hard" but, to paraphrase, we can find comfort in remembering that we're better than cats and worms. And then after checking the time with an audience member like he seems to always do, he did his usual self-promotional admin before leaving the stage.

I certainly hope I get the opportunity to see him next time he tours (not that he has even finished this tour yet), as I find real joy in seeing him live. He has become like a friend, and I probably know more about him than I do most of my friends. The one qualm with this show was that, despite still consisting of over 90 minutes of material, it didn't feel long enough. And if that's the only negative point I can think of, then it isn't bad going.

The last stand up show I went to see was at The O2, and coming back to this few-hundred seater, I appreciate it's intimacy a lot more. Comedy just isn't the same in those places and you can never beat a small, local theatre. And if you can see a brilliant comedian like Mark Watson at one, then you can't wish for anything better.

Lee Evans @ The O2 Arena

I've seen many things at different arenas over the past few years, and enjoyed them all thoroughly. However, I have always been sceptical of comedy in them. I've seen countless comedians in small venues, and loved the atmosphere that resides in those places. There is an intimacy between the comedian and their audience, which makes you feel comfortable and adds to the enjoyment. That was always going to be impossible to emulate in a 20,000 seat arena. However, comedy shows in arenas are hugely popular now, so I have always been intrigued.

On Saturday 4th October, I went to the O2 Arena, with the other half and friends, to see Lee Evans. These are tickets I had to buy 18 months in advance, in the hope that one of us didn't die, fall out, emigrate, or more likely, be busy on the day. It's quite a commitment to make, and a price to pay. I'm used to paying £10 to see comedians in a 300 seat theatre, brought a few months in advance. This is a different experience.

However, it was a great evening. He was gloriously funny, with a sweaty glint on his forehead. We laughed throughout, and all ended the evening with sore throats and aching bellies. The couple in front of us commented on how hard and loud my other half was laughing; luckily, she described it as 'infectious' rather than 'irritating'.

It was Lee Evans as you would expect. Lots of physical comedy accompanied by sound effects, and many fantastic observations about the many aspects of life, which had the audience laughing and cheering. If you like his previous stuff, then this is more of the same. And to think he did two and a half hours of stand up, and it was almost all new material, that is just as good as anything else he's done before, is quite impressive.

The interesting thing will be watching the DVD, as he almost self-edited it while he was performing. Jokes about Peter Andre and Katie Price he admitted crossed a line, but my favourite joke of the night was about Rolf Harris. He isn't a comedian who tends to do anything topical, but he can do it brilliantly; even if he cuts the evidence out of his DVD.

Despite completely enjoyed it (and don't get me wrong, I don't regret going in the slightest), my fears were met and I ended up watching the majority of it on the big screens, instead of actually looking at him on stage. It makes you ponder the purpose of being there, as opposed to just buying the DVD a few months later. But the atmosphere was brilliant, and it was heart warming to watch him on stage, receiving the huge round of applause, and still seeing him so humble. And at the end, he seemed to be genuinely grateful.

Of course, he ended on a self-penned song like he has on his last few tours. They're not funny, but again an example of how sincere he is, and always tend to be a beautiful song for his wife. He also performed his visualisation of the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody, which is perhaps one of the things he is most famous for now. It is a great example of his ability to do physical comedy brilliantly, much like Norman Wisdom (Not an original observation, but still one I agree with).

Overall, it was a brilliant experience, and Lee Evans is perhaps one of the best comedians around, in terms of his dedication, talent, and just general personality. He is much loved, and I cannot wait to get the DVD to watch again.

I never for one second doubted it would not be the case, as just over a year ago, we saw him live in the West End performing in the play Barking in Essex, in which he was an absolute joy to watch.

However, whether I would go to an arena again to watch a comedian, I'm more doubtful of. I stick to my belief of comedy being better in a theatre.

P.S. Below is a video of Lee Evan performing Bohemian Rhapsody. Enjoy.

Album Review: Maroon 5 - V (Deluxe Version)

After their last album, Overexposed, I was dreading this one. After hearing that a new album would be released in 2014, I was excited whilst also cowering behind my hands at the risk of being severely disappointed again. I saw the track listing, and the song titles didn't impress. I saw their understated front cover, with the florescent 'V', and had an incline that it would contain electronic sounds I'm not keen on. Then I saw the 'Parental Advisory' logo and I could feel my heavy heart. I was setting myself up for heartbreak, but I still pre-ordered the album… This is my mostly upbeat review, song by song:

Maps: When I heard this song back in June, I tentatively loved it instantly. A great catchy song, with meaningful lyrics which tell a story about being hurt in love, and trying to get the other person back, and those emotions shine through. It's a song that fits in with modern music, but still has the same ingredients of Maroon 5's earlier music. Plus, it was written with Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, who seems unable to write an unsuccessful song at the moment. An early favourite.

Animals: There is a theme developing early in the album with hints of the dreaded autotune. This is also very repetitive, with the word 'Animals' being sung to death, and stupid sounds such as 'Ny Ny Ny'. Of course, it is still a catchy song, and is a song using sounds much more like they're recent stuff. However, despite being an obvious metaphor, the Animal/Sex metaphor is done quite cleverly.

It Was Always You: I heard this song a few weeks back, and initially I was disappointed. This has an autotuned sound to it which immediately put me off. However, on reflection I think that might just be Adam Levine's voice. So, once I had seen past that, the song harks back to their It Won't Be Soon Before Long album, and after a few listens, the song does imbed itself in your head. Also, as always with Maroon 5 songs, I really like the lyrics.

Unkiss Me: I'm not keen on the music, as it seems like it should be a gangster hip-hop song at the start, but it progressed in an intuitive manner, and despite that, it is a slow and poignant song. The song also sounds well produced, because more often with this music, the voice can get lost. As the song started, I didn't expect to like it, but it is really catchy, of the time, and a very beautiful song; both in terms of lyrics and voice.

Sugar: Electronic vibe, which I think works well with Levine's voice, and a very summery song; it's a shame this album has been released at the start of Autumn. This song makes great use of how high his voice can go (one to rival the Bee Gees). Again, it's a very catchy song and I really love the chorus for its juxtaposition between high, and well, not quite so high, voice. Possibly a favourite for me.

Leaving California: This song would fit in so well on their Songs About Jane album, and is a masterpiece of a song from Maroon 5. Of course it is catchy, and of course the lyrics are perfect, and of course Levine's voice is pouring with emotion. It's got a positive and upbeat tone, and it's one of those songs that I think could lift the spirits of a crap day; which is nice between the songs about failed love. However, the song doesn't necessarily end; it just stops. This is the one negative point I can say about this song; it just sounds like the CD has malfunctioned.

In Your Pocket: Slightly oriental twang at the start, which seems pointless… But the lyrics have a fast pace, and that drives the song and it's gorgeous! The music is minimal. It's catchy, the lyrics are clever in how they tell the story, and it sounds like one side of an argument, about not trusting your partner.

New Love: Return of the autotune, which one has to admit doesn't sound too bad with the electronic vide. This is possibly my least favourite thus far, partly because it has unnecessary swearing, partly because Levine's high pitched voice is a bit annoying and repetitive in this song, and also because it's just a bit too club-like for my liking. Bu having said all that, it's alright.

Coming Back For You: The opening drums sound like those from Phil Collins's In The Air Tonight. Regardless, the song is good with their usual mix of great lyrics and music, which are catchy. I like it, but it's a 'meh' song.

Feelings: This song has such an electronic feel, that I'm convinced the introduction was originally a ringtone for a Nokia phone from 2002. Again, it also has needless and repetitive swearing, but I like the catchiness and the lyrics again. Apart from the distinctive voice though, I wouldn't have linked this song with Maroon 5, and although I fits in with the album, I'm not sure it's necessarily 'them'. Also, I can't help but think though, that this song should be sung by a woman.

My Heart is Open feat. Gwen Stefani: Speaking of which, here is a duet with a female. This is a stripped back song in comparison to the past few, and it is welcome relief. Their voices work really well together, but I do wish there was more of Gwen Stefani; as I can't help but think Levine keeps interrupting her. Duets are the 'thing' at the moment, and this fits in well amongst them. Again, it has lots of emotion, and the lyrics are good, if not slightly lacking what some of the other songs have.

Shoot Love: This has a Mark Ronson sound to it, which I used to really like (whatever happened to him incidentally?). Very catchy song, with interesting sounds which alter the mood and pace of the song. Lyrics are nothing to be amazed by, but the actual music and production are top-notch.

Sex and Candy: Another stripped back song, and is an unexpected treat. The title had me expecting another electronic-heavy song, but instead it's just Adam, a drum, a keyboard and guitar. Very soulful, and it's great to be able to hear his voice in this style of music. You can't help but just slowly move your body to the song. Also, the song ends on a long, drawn-out fade, which rounds off nicely and is a lovely change from the abrupt endings featuring on the rest of the album.

Lost Stars: This is a song from a film I haven't seen (Begin Again) featuring Levine in an acting role (and officially, it's just an Adam Levine song). I downloaded it separately a few weeks earlier because it is a beautiful song, and it got me in the mood for this album (plus I hadn’t realised it was on this album). It is again another song which sits perfectly amongst their earlier songs, and it just makes me smile. It has a great musical and emotional progression, and OF COURSE, the lyrics are fabulous, and I love how Adam Levine sings it. A lovely end to the album and one of my all-time favourties. Incidentally, look up the other song he sung for the film, A Higher Place: That is a Songs About Jane song through and through.

After my first listen, I was excited. Our love affair was back on track. Of course, they have annoying habits, but they're subjective. For example, despite moaning about the repetitive 'Ny Ny Ny' of Animals, I spent the rest of the day singing that over and over in my head. Just like in a loving relationship, the other person will have annoying habits, but I'm not sure I'd change them. Whether it's their insistence on using electronic beats, the fact they swear too much, or the their resolve to never put things back where they belong.

I really love the album, and it has made me very happy. Favourite songs include Maps, Sugar, Leaving California, In Your Pocket, My Heart is Open, Sex and Candy, and Lost Stars. I can class half this album as being favourite songs of mine, and that's really good going. There is a real mix of music between them, and yet they're songs that are all perfect in different ways. They have really outdone themselves this time.

I've perhaps been a bit too negative to other songs, but it all about personal taste. Even though I can swear with the best of the drunken sailors, I hate unnecessary swearing in comedy, literature and music. Unless you're portraying real anger, I just think there can always be a better word. Look up a song called Up Here by Terra Naomi. Now she swears perfectly. It is more than just a swear word. It holds power because you just understand how angry and frustrated she feels. Anyway, I'm off point.

This is a brilliant Maroon 5 album for three reasons: Firstly, it has roots that go all the way through their past albums, and it draws on what their fans really loved about them 10 years ago, such as their emotive lyrics. Secondly, it isn't a complete change of direction from Overexposed, so it keeps the best of those songs, and it keeps their new fans loyal too. Ultimately, this is an album which showcases their evolution. But thirdly, the album has been produced marvellously. I think it has to be one of the best-produced albums I've heard for a long time.

Overall, they've done a perfect job, despite Adam Levine's silly new hairstyle, and the fact there is now 6 of them...

It's the Golden Ticket

The Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical, currently on at Drury Lane Royal Theatre, is one of most utterly incredible things you might ever see in your life. The technology and intellect that goes behind creating such wonderful sets, costumes and props is something which surely is revolutionary for musical, and is so splendidly funny that it is a fitting tribute to Roald Dahl.

If I were going to compare it to the film versions, it would be the original. Alex Jennings' version of Willy Wonka is perhaps more akin to that of Gene Wilder, but of course it has it's darker and lighter moments, just like both. However, unlike the two films, it holds a close resemblance to the story of the book, whilst still adapting it for the modern era.

McFly and Busted Travel Back to the Future

Pop conglomerate McBusted provided an entertaining trip back into my early teens at The O2 London. The new pop supergroup packed the arena full of old and new fans alike, and have potentially created a union that could have a bright future.

I was skeptical for how the evening was going to pan out, after getting a pounding, irritating headache from their warm up acts. Young Brando were good, and the sort of band I would have really liked 10 years ago; they could go far. Vix consisted of a red-headed female singer, who shouted covers pleasantly enough to get attention.

However, The 3 Dudes were on the cusp of ruining my evening entirely. They shouted and screamed into their microphones like boys singing in a garage. They were young, irritating, American and immature, talking about third nipples and other such nonsense. Their music was far too loud, and voices far too high. I felt ill by the time they finally left the stage. Music, it was not.

Building on a Good Thing

Lego has re-imagined itself over the years, maintaining its position as one of most popular toys of choice for children, over many generations. Kids have always used the brightly coloured bricks to build the things from their imaginations. But now, Lego has moved with the times and created a large assortment of video games which today's youth love to play. Creating a film was the next logical step in continuing to dominate the toy market.

The Lego Movie, which hit British cinemas on February 14th 2014, has proved to be a successful counterpart to the Dutch, world-famous brand. Many reviewers have already compared it to the likes of Toy Story. To repeat such observations would be uninspired on my behalf.  However, it is hard not to.

Review: Maroon 5 Live at The O2, London

I have never been to the O2 arena, so on the 11th of January 2014, Maroon 5 and Co took my virginity. However, I had to wait a long while for my first time. We had planned to have our first time back in June last year, but due to American TV commitments, they cancelled on me, with a note to say I'd have to wait more than 7 months before we would try again.

A promo photograph...

So, the months ticked away, and the dome teased me every morning on the way to University as I went past on the DLR. All I could think about was the night we would finally get to spend together. Then the tickets came through the post. It meant, this was finally going to happen. Then the night came...

Review: Matilda the Musical

Most people seem to have seen the film, whereas I haven't, apart from the final few minutes when it was on TELLY once. As for the original book by Roald Dalh, it seems to be one of the few books of his that I haven't read. So, I went into the Cambridge Theatre, with no preconceptions of the story.

Saying that though, I am a huge fan of both Roald Dalh and Tim Minchin, and thus I knew it had to be good. The reviews have all been glowing, and the performances of songs from the show that I have seen on the TELLY, have made me want to go and see it even more. However, it is expensive, even by usual West End standards, and booked up weeks in advance, so it unfortunately isn't the sort of musical you go see on a whim.

The Doctor at 50

I chose to stay at home to watch Saturday's episode of Doctor Who; I'll choose pizza over popcorn any day. But many others elected to sit in a cinema full of other fans, and pay to watch something they could have watched at home for free. I imagine there were moments when cinemas across the country erupted in cheers as they saw their old favourites grace the big screen.

Over 10 million UK people tuned in to watch the 50th Doctor Who episode, Day of the Doctor. However, you would be forgiven for not bothering to watching it, after the overkill lead up that we have been exposed to over the past few weeks. I enjoy Doctor Who, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't glad that the hype is finally over; at least until they want to celebrate the 75th anniversary.

We have spent six months waiting, after being teased at the end of series 7 with the words 'Introducing John Hurt as The Doctor'. As a result, Doctor Who fans have been suffering from a half-year-long headache, as we all tried to figure out what Stephen Moffat was up to. However, it has certainly been worth the wait.

Theatre Review: Barking In Essex

On Thursday, 19th September, we went to see the matinee performance of Barking In Essex at the Wyndham Theatre, which stars famous names Lee Evans, Shelia Hancock and Keeley Hawes. This play has incredibly mixed reviews, with some saying how it's the worst play of the year, and others celebrating the wonderful humour which exuberates from it.

Barking In Essex is a dark, tragic comedy about the Packers, a hapless criminal family, who are obviously from Essex. It's the story of a family whom, having spent the proceeds from a robbery undertaken by notorious gangster and younger son Algie, face having to cover their tracks before he returns home from seven years in prison. This involves dead bodies and fleeing to a not-so exotic location for the second act, where they begin to hatch various plots against each other, and eventually reaching a loud and tragic ending.

Henning Wehn: That German Comedian

Henning Wehn brought his latest stand-up comedy show, Henning Knows Bestest, to Canterbury's The Gulbenkian Theatre on Saturday, May 11th. I travelled from London to see him, and it was definitely worth the journey, and missing Doctor Who; after all, you can't iPlayer theatre.

Regardless, beforehand I had only really seen him on comedy panel shows, on Dave's One Night Stand and occasionally on Radio 4, so it was a slight gamble. However, it was one of the best comedy nights I have had. It started off with him being his own warm-up act. Unfortunately, the material he used in this section of the show seemed to be his go-to jokes he uses on TV; witty, satirical observations. For example, in the week following this show, he was on 10 O'Clock Live, providing a few jokes about Europe, all of which I had heard just days earlier.

April: The Month Stuff Happened

Well, I suppose April 2013 will be written in quite a few history books over the years. Some might say that it hasn't exactly been a slow news month. This month has seen my Godson turn 1, the upgrading of our Broadband package and me getting a few articles published in a local newspaper. As important as these things are to me, they are not events that are going to make it into the history books.

One of the most devastating stories was the Boston bombs on the 15th of April. The tragic scenes were shared around the world within minutes, and thanks to the Internet, I had pictures filling up my Twitter feed. I love being on Twitter to watch stories like this develop, however, it is never long before people start making inappropriate jokes and flexing their Photoshop skills. Things inevitably begin to turn ugly, and soon you can't believe anything. As someone else rather eloquently put it:

Twitter does its best work in the first five minutes after a disaster, and its worst in the twelve hours after that.
— Matt Roller (@rolldiggity) April 15, 2013

Broadchurch - The Best Whodunnit For Ages

The eight-part ITV series has come to an end, and those who have invested the past weeks watching it, now know who the killer is. For those who did, it was a rewarding end, tying up all the loose ends, bringing closure for the town and it's viewers, but also they got to watch some brilliant acting. It is at this point I should stress that if you don't want to read spoilers, find something else to do on the Internet - You're welcome.

Milton Jones - Warming Us Up

Ahead of his 2013 tour, Milton Jones ventured down into Canterbury on a cold, January night. He came came and warmed us all up with his one liners, testing which ones worked, and which did not. Turns out, they mostly all had the audience laughing hard.

Milton Jones' Grandfather (I think it's just Milton Jones dressed up however) came out first and warmed up for the warm up for Milton's warm up show. He came onto the stage in an usual manner, but it shows an increase in his profits as it was more adventurous than pushing a trolley on like like he did last year. It obviously contained lots of his usual top class one-liners.

If this is the End of the World: Bring it on!

On Thursday 6th of December, I went to see The War of the Worlds at London's Wembley Arena. I have always argued to lovers of music, that it is impossible to claim to be so, if you have not at least listened to Jeff Wayne's two disc epic of The War of the Worlds. It's huge orchestra and band collaboration is an example of Prog Rock storytelling at its ultimate best.

Album Review: Matchbox Twenty - North

Matchbox Twenty's new album North comes out on the 3rd of September 2012 in the UK, but with thanks to Play.com, I have it two days early, and what a treat it was to see it on the doormat upon waking up this morning. It is a great album by an amazing band who can write both amazing songs musically and lyrically, with Rob Thomas writing a majority of the songs, and being the main vocalist.

The Greatest Show On Earth

I enjoyed the Olympic Opening Ceremony so much, that I think I might just series link them all. I was cynical about the entire thing, but I was wrong to be so because it was an amazing thing to witness - right from the beginning to end, despite the even lasting for nearly four hours.

The opening clip with the animation of the journey down the River Thames was very well done, and was actually quite funny I thought. However, this show wasn't just for us Brit's - it was for the entire World, and like many people have said: I'm not sure they really got most of it.

Album Review: Maroon 5 - Overexposed (Deluxe Edition)

I would not hesitate to say that Maroon 5 are easily my favourite band, with Adam Levine being my favourite singer (closely followed my Matchbox Twenty and Rob Thomas), so when I opened a link posted on their Facebook Fan group, which stated that they were to release a new album within a matter of months, I nearly exploded; I was more hyper than a kid leaving a sweet shop. Then, a week later, they released their new single, Payphone, on YouTube. I quickly grabbed the mouse and clicked the link. It's all been downhill since…

I should have known that it wouldn't reach my dizzy heights of expectation after the Moves Like Jagger single, which is incredibly popular both sides of the Atlantic - arguably their most popular song to date. That is the only reason I can imagine for them producing a mismatched album which includes mainly electronic, club sounds, with a dash of Funk and sprinkling of their traditional stuff – a return to disco some might call it.

Comedy by a Ragdoll on Strings

On Friday I received an invite to see Chris Addison perform his show 'The Time is now, Again' at The Gulbenkian, Canterbury, with my usual comedy-watching partner after he possessed an extra ticket for no obvious reason. Following the text just an hour before the show started, I had to cook and chew my dinner in half an hour, to then jump in the car to ensure I was there on time. I then watched Chris Addison with indigestion.

The following two hours were filled with comedy rants from a well-informed viewpoint by a tall, slightly camp, man who burns extra calories by continuously patrolling the stage. I like to think of him as a Ragdoll being operated from above with strings, from his occasional prancing about, elaborate hand movements and floppy curly hair. He was a joy to watch, not just listen to.