Urban Perk #4: Ryoji Ikeda's "Spectra"

Afternoon Everyone,

First of all I would just like to say that the

winner of the Pixies' Doolittle poster is:

ALEX CABRE

Thank you to everyone else who entered, there are some

more competitions on the way!

Secondly I would like to talk about something I found

yesterday...

So my Dad and I were leaving the cinema

after seeing Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes (which

I highly recommend!) when we saw a beam of light

shining up from the ground and onto the low clouds.

We decided to find out what it was and so we spent

the next 20 minutes or so tracking it down in our

clunky old VW. 

At first we thought it was coming from the Imperial

War Museum because as many of you know, yesterday was the

centenary of the First World War.

But driving towards the light we worked out that it was

in the wrong part of London. When we got closer we saw that

this was not one small light, but about 50 of them

beaming towards the heavens.

Upon entering (for free) the Victoria Tower 

Gardens you see these beautiful lights shining bright

and with purpose. On closer inspection people are walking in

and out the columns of light or lying on the floor and 

gazing up at the spectacular sight. A stunning atmosphere 

is created through an ambient soundtrack that swirls from the speakers and into your mind.

Inspired by the declaration "the lamps are going out all over Europe, 

we shall not see them lit again in our life-time",

said by Sir Edward Grey*, spectra is a stunning piece 

of art that unites the people across London and reminds

them of the hardships and sacrifices of the 

First World War.

spectra can be seen from 12 miles away (on a clear day).

The exhibition is on from dusk till dawn 

and will permanently fade out in the early hours of

 Monday 11th August.

Lest we forget,

Poppy x

*Sir Edward Grey was the Foreign Secretary during the 

outbreak of WWI

Interview with King Eider!

Hello People,

So the other day I was listening to a band doing a 

session for BBC London, I was captivated by their

combination of folk and rock as well as their

brilliant use of the violin and horn.

King eider are a five piece 'Edinburgh-based folk-blues band'

who use three part harmonies to create haunting and 

atmospheric music. They have been compared to the soulful

acoustics of Ben Howard and the foot stomping wildness of Arcade Fire. This is one of their latest songs 'Drink Me Dry'

And so I did what I do with bands that I listen to and love;

I got an interview with them!

Without further ado here is my interview with...

King Eider

1. Could you introduce yourselves and your instruments?

Reuben Tighe - Vocals,Guitar, Harmonica

Sam Chapman - Vocals, Drums,

Lucy Frankel - Vocals, Violin

Josh Casali-Bell Linemann - Vocals, Keys, Horn

Sam Palmer - Bass Guitar

2.Who are you influenced by and how did you discover 

your "sound"?

Our influences span a spectrum of genres and decades. 

Lucy listens to a lot of traditional country and bluegrass. 

Reuben takes influences from his mothers CD collection of 60's blues and rock and roll. Sam brings in more modern influences 

such as Arcade Fire and The Wild Beasts. We share our music

taste so that all of them influence our music 

to some degree.

3.When did you form as King Eider - what made you choose 

the name?!

We formed Early 2012, and were originally named "Zopa and the Shakes" (after Reuben's middle name). After deciding a name change was in order, we decided on King Eider. We were in an ale pub drinking a beer named "YellowHammer", (also the name for a bird native to the UK) and decided we liked the name. Since this was already a popular band name, we decided to research all other UK bird names. It transpires that the King Eider duck is a bird which migrates to the lake district every year, which is home to Reuben, Sam Chapman, and Josh, so the name seemed a good fit!

4. Describe your music in five words.

Hmmm....

5. What is the weirdest thing that has ever happened to

you before/after a gig?

Some one from the front row recently took his top off and 

attempted to lactate onto Lucy's shoes. That was pretty weird,

and somewhat aggressive...

6. State a fact that people don't know about you.

Two of us have Science PHD's

7. What are the top 4 songs on your playlist right now?

Wild Beasts - this is our lot

The Whitest Boy Alive - Islands

Supertramp - Bloody Well Right

Grizzly Bear - Ready,Able

8. What is the first album you remember buying?

 The first album which really had a musical impact on me was Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac, self titled album. Peter Green still remains a big influence on me, the man is a genius.

9. Modern or Vintage Clothing? 

 No clothing is best.

10. What are you plans for the future?

After making the most of our album release, we intend to 

record a 4 track EP. We have been working on some new material

which we are excited to record, and intend to release it

some point early next year. Stay Tuned!

If you like the sound of King Eider then you can head to their

website here and check them out.

So long for now,

Poppy xx

The Rise of Scandinavian Sound

Evening Everyone,

I'm very glad with the number of entries for my

Pixies Poster competition - the winner will be 

announced soon.

So recently, I was flicking through my playlist when

I realized how many Scandinavian artists I had on there.

I was then talking to my friends who were also very interested

in a number of Danish and Swedish artists. 

I've found this quite interesting and where better to talk

about it than here? 

(Don't go yet - I promise not to talk about ABBA!)

It all started with Bjork (although she is Icelandic)

with her 1993 album 'Debut' she rose from the crowd

like a bubble in a coke can. Her beautiful lyrics and

electronic pop opened the gateway for a new era of pop music.

Combining house, jazz and trip-hop she went on to be one of

the biggest artists of her time - and still is!

Listen To: 'Come to Me' & 'Hyperballad'

Bjork

Closely following Bjork were Swedish band The Cardigans.

The Cardigans leaped to fame when their song 'Lovefool'

was featured in the 1996 film Romeo + Juliet.

Their album Life, released in 1995, was produced by

Tore Johansson who also went to produce music for Franz

Ferdinand and Wild Beasts. 

I'm not going to be able to name every artist that has
ever come out of the Scandinavian scene but now there seem 
to be more than ever!
You've got Robyn, who first appeared in the 90s after her hit single "Do you know", MO, The Majority Says and Royksopp just
to name a few!
Although Icelandic, Of Monsters and Men are also a
mainstream band that have paved the way for more
indie pop/rock bands to follow.

One of my favourites is MO (the O has a line through it)
who I discovered a few months back on YouTube.
Her music has strong electropop notes, deep vocals and 
almost jazzy undercurrents (which can be heard in 'Don't Wanna Dance' and 'Say You'll be There') that have been 
compared to the likes of Grimes and 
Twin Shadow.

Robyn has also made a comeback to the pop world with
Norwegian duo Royksopp and their song 'Do It Again'.
The song is a combination of house and triphop, similar to 
Bjork, and has been described as "joyously addictive" 
and "booming" Do It Again, released in May 2014, peaked 
at number 3 in the UK Indie Albums chart.

It would seem to me that the Scandinavian and Icelandic
music scene is returning stronger than ever, this time
it is here to stay. So keep a look out!

Thank you for the music,
Poppy x

My top 5 Film Soundtracks

Hi Everyone,

I'm sorry I haven't been posting for

a while, I've been doing my exams!

But today I am returning with one of my 

favorite posts so far:

"My Top 5 Film Soundtracks"

Whilst listening to Karen O & the Kids,

I was inspired by the wonderful soundtrack that

she created for Where The Wild Things Are.

One of my all-time favorite films! 

And here I am now, writing up my idea 

for you.

(Counting down)

5) Moonrise Kingdom

Soundtrack by Alexandre Desplat
A quirky and wistful collection of scores
to match the bittersweet directing by
Wes Anderson. Percussion and brass dominate the
delightful tracks creating a sense of innocence
and child-like imagination. Also included in the 
album is 'Le temps de l'amour' by Francoise Hardy
adding even more magic to the film and 
soundtrack! 

Try: 'Le temps de l'amour' by Francoise Hardy, The Heroic
weather conditions of the Universe Part 1: A veiled mist
by Alexandre Desplat


4)(500) Days of Summer
Soundtrack by Various Artists
A unique mix of indie, electronic and
alternative songs including covers of The Smiths
and Pixies by beautiful small time bands.
Song include 'Sweet Disposition' by Temper Trap,
'Mushaboom' by Feist and 'There Goes the Fear' by
Doves. The songs match ongoing themes throughout the
film and tells the story of a happy-go-lucky
couple.

Try: 'She's got you high' by Mumm-ra, 'Here Comes your
Man' by Meaghan Smith


3) The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Soundtrack by Various Artists
The first song to blast through the speakers is 
'Wake Up' by Arcade Fire, probably my most favorite
song ever! Soon more uplifting songs are headed your
way; 'Dirty Paws' by Of Monsters and Men, 'Lake
Michigan' by Rogue Wave and a handful by Jose Gonzales.
The songs are insightful, inspiring and earnest yet slightly
melancholy. If you need a bit of fuel to get you through
the day then this soundtrack is for you!

Try: 'Escape' by Jack Johnson, 'Dirty Paws' by Of
Monsters and Men, 'Far Away' by Junip


2) Where the Wild Things Are
Soundtrack by Karen O and the Kids

Karen O, lead singer of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, leads
the band with her raw and touching vocals. Shouts of
"Let the wild rumpus start!" and whispers of story telling
play throughout many of the songs. Harmonies, strange
lyrics and soaring legatos feature in this incredible
masterpiece that fills the room with child-like wonder.
I could listen to this all day long!

Try:'All is Love', 'Capsize', 'Rumpus Reprise' all by
Karen O and the Kids


1) The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Soundtrack by Various Artists
My first choice was probably very obvious but
inevitable. Classic songs of rebirth and joy plaster
a smile across any listeners' face. They may not be
underground artists but that doesn't change a thing;
David Bowie, Dexy's Midnight Runners and The Cocteau
Twins all have brilliant tracks included. 
I love how Dexy's Midnight Runners' 'Come on
Eileen' plays during Charlie's awkward (and adorable)
dancing scene - if you haven't seen the film go and 
watch it! A fantastic collection.

Try: 'Asleep' By The Smiths, 'Heroes' by David Bowie, 
'Pearly Dew-Drops' Drop' by The Cocteau Twins

 

Let me know what your favorite Film Soundtrack is
in the comment box below! 

Coming Soon: An interview with band My Sad Captains,
singer Ezra Furman and a competition.

See you soon,
Poppy x

Part II of Interview with Tenterhook

Good Morning (just) Everyone,

How was your weekend? Good,

I hope? 

Today I have Part II of my interview with

Tenterhook! In case you missed the first half,

click here to read it now.

6. In 4 words describe your music.

Ambient folk pop rock

7. What is the weirdest thing that has ever happened whilst performing or before/after a gig?

I am yet to play a show so hoping to see some odd things on the road later this year.

8. Have you got strange hobbies/habits?

I talk to myself a lot. People think I am very strange when walking down the street but I just seem to do it naturally without much conscious thought.

9. Brick Lane or Portobello?

I was brought up on portobello and love it there. Many on my songs were written when I busked there in my old band when I was 16.

10. Lastly, what are your hopes for the future? Are you playing any gigs soon?!

I am putting out an EP at the beginning of summer and going to do a small UK tour in support of that release. However at the moment I am concentrating on my first show which is on the 23rd of April at the Servant Jazz Quarters in Dalston.

Tenterhook's first show is now SOLD OUT!

Good Luck to him and I hope he enjoys it.

If you would like to listen to some of Tenterhook's 

songs, head over to SoundCloud where you can listen

to 'Stereo'. 

Have a nice day,

Poppy x

Ps. My next interview will be with a Swedish band who

sung a jingle for a recent Christmas advert,

any ideas who? 

Top Summer Festivals (UK) 2014

Hey Everyone,

So I thought that since summer is coming up soon

you might be looking at some music 

festivals to go to...

Therefore, I have put together a small collection
 of the top UK festivals to see this summer
(although I am basing this on the blog's music
taste)!

Field Day
Date: 7th-8th June 2014
Location: Victoria Park, London
It may be over 18s only, which is probably
quite a bonus for you adults, but this festival
has a brilliant line-up! The Pixies, Drenge,
Metronomy and Temples are all to bless the
stage and in previous years Beirut and The Vaccines
have headlined too! So, if you enjoy the rock/indie 
music scene then this one is for you.

Bestival

Date: 4th-7th September 2014

Location: Robin Hill, Isle of Wight

Bestival; a festival of music, food and the arts.

Every year this festival comes back with a stronger 

line-up than ever before. Foals, Paloma Faith,

Chvrches and Laura Mvula are set to perform as well

as Public Service Broadcasting (for the more

alternative/electronic musician inside you).

This perky festival is a celebration of all things

fresh and "out-there".

Latitude

Date: 17th-20th July 2014

Location: Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk

Having been to this festival a few times I can honestly

say that it is wonderful! Music, Poetry, Film and Comedy

create a lively, atmospheric vibe. People of all ages

flock to Suffolk annually for entertainment, amazing food 

and beautiful scenery. Named 2nd best festival of 2013,

Latitude gets all the best acts; this year Damon Albarn,

Crystal Fighters, Bombay Bicycle Club and George Ezra

have been announced! 

T in the Park
Date: 11th-13th July 2014
Location: Kinross-Shire, Scotland
Yes, it may be in Scotland but don't let this killer
festival put you off. The fantastic line-up includes:
The Pixies, Imagine dragons, Haim, The Arctic Monkeys,
Bastille and dozens more!! If you want a festival
with a broad music scene then this is perfect! 
A smaller-than-average no-nonsense festival
for the music lover in you, get the tickets
soon or they'll go!

The Garden Party

Date: 24th-27th July 2014

Location: Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire

The Garden Party is a lovely festival with the

best new artists including MO, Wolf Alice,

Big Deal and Foxes. Set in a dreamy indie/hipster

forest setting this festival is artistic and 

magical. A must-see!

I'm hoping this may come into some use for

you festival-scavengers! 

Of course I am aware that I didn't include

Glastonbury or the Isle of Wight festival

but I wanted to give some smaller festivals a 

chance.

Have a magical Friday :D

Poppy Valentine x 

The BRIT awards :D

Yay!!

Poppy x

If I could pick any song......

It would be......

"Don't ask me why" by Great Caesar

This song will make you feel amazing by the end. 

It's uplifting, moving and powerful.

So please click Play (please!).

Poppy Valentine x

In My Make-Up Bag...

Hello Everyone!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

I trust you're having a love and chocolate 

filled day?? 

Here is a video of my review about 5 items in my

Make-Up Bag, feel free to comment!

Have a wonderful weekend - I'm finally on

Half Term so you might be seeing some more

interesting posts than usual. 

Sincerely yours,

Poppy Valentine x

The Liebster Award

Hello All!

I am very happy to tell you that I have 

been nominated for the Liebster award by Emm,

for a link to her blog click here.

Here are Emm's questions:

Q)5 Words that define you?

A)Bubbly, Smiley, Weird, creative, Sarcastic(!) 

Q)Why did you start blogging?

A)I started blogging because at the time I was in love

with fashion and I was looking for a new hobby and then

I found it......Blogging.

Q)What is your favourite type of post (to read and write)?

A)I love posts about music that have loads of 

videos or posts with cool cartoons! I like reading 

tutorial posts for hair and creative projects. 

Q)Has blogging changed you? How has blogging influenced you? 

A)Blogging has definitely made me grow up

quite a bit, I've found the type of fashion and music I like. When I started as a Blogger I knew nothing about 

myself but blogging has helped me to find my 

creative side! 

Q)What do you think of your blog, and is there anything 

you would like to change from it? 

A)I'm really comfortable with my new clean look and it looks 

more professional and modern than before. Although I would 

like to have more of my own picture edits and to gain

some more followers/readers.

Q)Your style icon?

A) I love Twiggy's make up and hair but if we're

talking about clothes then I would have to say Emma Roberts.

Her fashion is effortless and really simple-and her 

new haircut is super cool! 

Q)Do you watch YouTube-What do you go to YouTube for?

A) I use YouTube for music. That's all; searching

up new artists, sourcing ideas from music videos and 

keeping up with new songs from artists I love.

Q) Your current favourite song? When you listen to it

do you listen to the music, or the lyrics?

A) My favourite song at the moment is Youth by Daughter.

I usually listen to the lyrics (they tell stories!).

Q)Last movie you watched and how was it? 

A) I watched this weird but wonderful film called The Royal Tenenbaums (a Wes Anderson film), it has really cool style and music - I thought the film was great!! 

Q) Best kind of cake, ever!

A) ANGEL CAKE!! It is amaaazing - you HAVE to try it!!

Q) LAstly, what do you think of Valentine's Day?

A) A bit cheesy, slightly cute but a bit of a rip - off?!

(That took a while!) 

Now here are my nominees: 
Runs With Scissors
Style and Beauty
Soph's Blog
Glow Getter
Live*London*Love
That Delete Button
Fashionaholic
The Simple Life of Fashion
My Life Box
"You get the Picture"
Beat of the Beauty

So, there you have it my 11 nominees! If you are one of the nominees then here are the rules: 

1. Link the blog that nominated you for the award
2. Choose 11 bloggers to nominate who have less than 200 followers
3. Answer the 11 questions (below) given to you
4. Let the people you have nominated know that you have done so 
5. You can't nominate the person that nominated you
6. Create 11 questions for the people you nominate to answer

Here are your questions:

• What is your favourite song at the moment, and why?
• Paste a picture of your favourite photo? 
• What would be your ideal Friday night in e.g. a sleepover, a movie, etc.
• If you could go anywhere in the world on Holiday this summer where would you go, and why?  
• What is the wildest thing you have ever done?
• What achievement are you most proud of?
• What is your favourite thing to blog about? 
• What is your favourite childhood memory? 
• What book are you reading at the moment, do you like it? 
• Name your favourite food.
• If home is where the heart is, then where does your heart lie? 

Okay, so there's your challenge! Hopefully it won't take you too long. 

Have a lovely evening and feel free to follow - I need

to get the amount to at least a 10! 

Have a wonderful Valentine's Day! 

Poppy Valentine x