My idea of the perfect group is the piano trio; piano, bass and drums. I’ve always loved the piano, and will always be there when a great trip is in town.
COOL AUTOGRAPHS FROM COOL PEOPLE #3-THE HORN PLAYERS
I’m starting to uncover some of the archives I’ve accumulated over the years. Also discovering I’ve lost so many rolls of film, snowballs and autographs. But I’ve managed to hold on to a few. These are some of the great horn players I’ve had the privilege of meeting.
COOL AUTOGRAPHS FROM COOL PEOPLE #2 THE BAND
Most of the autographs I’ve collected are individuals. Occasionally I’ve been able to gather the scribbles of an entire group. Usually my inherent shyness and need to ‘get-in and get-out’ means that I withdraw graciously before I think I’m being a pest. But, occasionally an opportunity presented itself, or frankly I just couldn’t help it.
Cool Autographs from Cool People #1-The Drummers Part 1
There’s a few good stories in these autographs, at the very least I was in the same room with some of my drumming heroes. Here’s some masters I managed to coax an autograph from.
Adding an aluminium mounting pole to a canvas backdrop
I’m a big fan of painted canvas backdrops. They’ve become quite a ‘thing’ now with photographers such as Felix Kunze promoting them on very popular Facebook pages and lighting classes, and YouTube has many examples of how to create your own, Oliphant being the gold standard, although there are many great options.
Favourite Records #1-Doin’ the Thing-Horace Silver Quintet (1961)
Doin the Thing sounds like I want every gig to sound. A great band playing soulful, swinging music with an audience who is enthusiastically along for the ride.
My Favourite Records
Where does anyone start when compiling a list of favourites? What is the criteria for 'favourite'? Our tastes evolve constantly and we move through different emotional states throughout our lives, all of which re-define what we listen and respond to.
Modifying the Gibraltar GBDP Bass Drum Pad
I've been trying for a while to perfect my practice setup. I've got a few challenges; I have precious little space, and I live in an apartment. Also, I have a curious 3-year old who loves to innocently topple things.