|
15 Feb 05 - 05:48 AM (#1410270) Subject: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,rhyzla The latest BBC folk awards took place last night, and full results are listed on BBC folk and Acoustic site! IMO, I feel that they are pretty predictable, bearing in mind the list of nominees, tho' how 'Big Session' is a band, and how Bellowhead wins a live award with very few live shows, I'm not sure! ( Incidentally, I really like both of these sets of performers). Also, do the Carthy family need any more awards for their mantlepiece? Does anyone have any strong opinions on the results? RHYZLA |
|
15 Feb 05 - 05:57 AM (#1410272) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,IanC on the CookieSwallower Hence ... ******. ;-) |
|
15 Feb 05 - 09:13 AM (#1410348) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Pete Jennings I reckon that Hitchin are worthy winners of the best Folk Club, and about time too. Pete |
|
15 Feb 05 - 10:16 AM (#1410418) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: George Papavgeris I have heard Bellowhead and they are worthy winners in my opinion. Number of live shows is not the issue, quality is. After all they have hardly been on the scene more than a year, but wherever they appeared they went down a storm. Longevity of career is not a prerequisite - being good is what the "best live act" award is for. Hitchin deserve their award too (though I have few similar clubs to compare them to in my area - Nettlebed being the other one). What rankles here is not the winning of the award, but the naming of it, because I think it should be for the best concert club, which is what Hitchin is. As this award is voted on by the (major) performing acts, it presents a very specific view. And sure, as a performer, I always prefer the bigger venues that can pack 100 or more, have a stage, pay better etc, because it all feeds back to my own importance. But Folk Clubs (and my use of capitals is intentional) have another role too - to keep live, participatory music going; to keep tradition alive while at the same time giving a platform for the new talent and the future traditions to form; and this while trying to survive the vagaries of licencing, dearth of affordable venues and inadequate funds for advertising. After all, all the major artists that have just voted for the best concert club, started their careers in some Folk Club or other - did they not? Still, I appreciate that identifying the best Folk Club (from the Folk Music's point of view) would be hard, very time consuming, and would run the risk of coming up with subjective answers anyway. So well done Hitchin - and well deserved. But who will reward Les and Market Rasen, John at the Topic, Mike at Herga and the dozens of clubs that are the springboard for tomorrow's stars and the true stewards of live folk? |
|
15 Feb 05 - 10:47 AM (#1410451) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Rain Dog Highlights from the show are on Radio BBC Radio 2 - Wednesday 16.2.05 - 19.00 to 21.00 hours and TV BBC4 - Friday 18.2.05 - 21.30 to 23.00 hours Followed by 23.00 to 00.00 - Coppersongs ( Documentary on Bob Copper) and 00.00 to 01.00 - June Tabor Full details here BBC4 Friday 18.2.05 |
|
15 Feb 05 - 11:36 AM (#1410511) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Yorkie Bellowhead are one helluva live band. I'm looking forward to seeing them at the Eastleigh Festival in August which has replaced Sidmouth where they played last year in my diary. See www.eastfest.co.uk for what looks like a cracking line-up. All the other Folk Award winners are deserving in my view though some are certainly predictable. Nice to see the Awards are gonna get some tv coverage along with a tribute to 'the man' Bob Copper. |
|
15 Feb 05 - 02:57 PM (#1410798) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: LesB I agree with El Grecko re- the Folk Club award comment. As far as I can see all of the past receipients of this award have been 'concert' clubs. Those being the only ones who can afford the 'Big'names, ie:- those that sit on the panel! Cheers Les |
|
15 Feb 05 - 03:14 PM (#1410819) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: George Papavgeris Thanks Les. Actually the Awards in their definition refer to "concert clubs" - it's only the title that is a misnomer. It's a legitimate award, and one that can be chosen objectively from the viewpoint of the artists - a fair one. I just wish they didn't use that title, and -if possible - that they also instigated an award for Folk Clubs. |
|
15 Feb 05 - 07:28 PM (#1411175) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Linda Kelly I agree El Greko, no-one can underestimate the value of small clubs who nrture tomorrows stars. |
|
16 Feb 05 - 10:26 AM (#1411733) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST I agree with El G as well. However, I do remember a few years back being one of only a couple of people who used to do floorspots at Hitchin - the others seemingly being inimidated by the "professional stage" format. Even at St. Neots, a much less "formal" club, there were loads of people who would happily play at the monthly sing around but who wouldn't do a spot in front of the normal audience on guest nights. It may be that some clubs just evolve into the "concert" format due to lack of willing performers...and, let's face it, most "ordinary" clubs aren't exactly overrun with hordes of would-be folk acts - but that's almost certainly another thread. Looking forward to the TV programme, Friday 18th at 9.30. Pete |
|
16 Feb 05 - 10:52 AM (#1411765) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: treewind Not exactly intimidated by Hitchin (we've done a full support spot there), but I heard that the policy was that they didn't have floor singers anymore. Then I heard that they did, or that they did sometimes, or they did once exceptionally. Given such confusion, it's not worth travelling a long way with instruments on the off-chance... Compare with not-all-that-far-away Sutton, which is also a concert club (monthly, but always guests, big room, PA etc.) which has plenty of floor talent, and there's a good chance of getting a floor spot if you just turn up. As for St Neots, unwillingness of floor singers at guest nights is inexplicable. Anahata |
|
16 Feb 05 - 10:58 AM (#1411771) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Scintilla Much of a muchness I thought but good for Karine Polwart eh? I only knew of her through Malinkey but I was never a HUGE fan. Then I heard her on R2 last night and ... well I was blown away. Looking forward to the full programme tonight. And I suppose anything that brings Folk Clubs to people's attention has to be good.... they're an essential part of the whole scene and need to be kept alive. |
|
16 Feb 05 - 04:02 PM (#1412225) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: breezy At least Martin Carthy graced our club and silenced the bells. Was Ramblin Jack oiled? He is our link, even after all these years, with 'the music' what a trouper. Sorry bout Friday, cant watch as Hamish is on in St Albans. best live act, could it be Quicksilver next year? There are better songs to be found, maybe worth checking out Maidenhead F C at the end of march. |
|
16 Feb 05 - 07:02 PM (#1412477) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Tattie Bogle It was good to hear Tom Paxton sing "Last Thing on My Mind" again, having heard so many other people mess it about over the years. I listened to the whole programme on R2 but that was the moment at which I put my books down and really listened. Congratulations to Karine too: all awards well-deserved and good luck to her in her new career! I was devastated to miss the last Malinky gig with her in the line-up in Edinburgh last Friday, thanks to a bad dose of the flu. Looking forward to seeing it on BBC4 on Friday, as well as seeing again the Copper family show (which was on a few months ago also). TB |
|
17 Feb 05 - 02:04 PM (#1413131) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Scouse (Cookie's gone walkabout) Thanks Breezy for mentioning Jack Elliot.. Without him as with Martin what we we be singin'... As Aye, Phil |
|
17 Feb 05 - 03:08 PM (#1413206) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Folkiedave Was Jack Elliott pissed? Is he ever sober? Great trouper and a great link - but err....yes he drinks. Dave |
|
17 Feb 05 - 06:22 PM (#1413419) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: TheBigPinkLad Well done Kate - instrumentalist of the year! |
|
17 Feb 05 - 07:38 PM (#1413501) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Big Al Whittle well done to all the winners! |
|
18 Feb 05 - 04:48 PM (#1414305) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Bunnahabhain The Carthy family may not need any more awards, but they're going to get them unless other people perform better than them... Well done to all. |
|
18 Feb 05 - 05:01 PM (#1414319) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Cats ...but some people actually value the Alternative Awards more. Nominated by folkies and voted for by folkies and hardly a 'star' in sight. |
|
18 Feb 05 - 06:11 PM (#1414387) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie Well I just watched it for the first time, and enjoyed it hugely, Karine Polwort was a revelation to me, never having heard her before. Slight resevations on her song that won the best song category, it leant a bit heavily in the direction of country music. Why was Gerald Kaufmann there? I know the labour party keep him hidden near elections because he loses them votes, so they're either not worried about, or are sure of the folk vote. Oyster Bands rendition of John Barleycorn left a lot to be desired, and Maddy Priors mike was turned down on the Steeleye finishing song Van Deimen's Land. all in all, it was a good advert for folk music, thank you Radio 2, I didn't know you had it in you. Giok |
|
18 Feb 05 - 07:01 PM (#1414421) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: LesB Yes just watched it, I thought it was a good show. I agree about Steeleye the sound was a bit muted, but clear. Unlike the Oyster Band whose vocals were crap. Anyone watching for the first time must have wondered how they got an award, I know I did. I saw last years 'Big Session' tour with a much different line up to this years, and they were good. (Well those who wern't in the Oyster Band that is). Really enjoyed Bellowhead, but a bit cheeky pinching half of the Demon Barbers Roadshow (Who should have been nominated!!!). I voted for Bedlam for the dance band vote. Cheers Les |
|
18 Feb 05 - 07:25 PM (#1414436) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Zany Mouse Yes, I watched it and it was, indeed, very predictable. Having said that the winners deserved their laurels. As to the folk club and being put off by the 'professional' setting of Hitchin Folk Club. Some years ago I went with Mingulay and were told that the club did not have 'floor spots'. We were informed that the only singers apart from the booked guest were resident singers who were booked in advance. We went back to our old, very friendly, club at the Ongley Arms, Eye. The folk awards were followed by a prog about the Coppers, especially Bob. This was an excellent documentary! I wonder if anyone else was moved to tears at the end? Rhiannon |
|
18 Feb 05 - 07:58 PM (#1414463) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Nemesis Just enjoying June Tabor (post BBC4 "awards" and "Bob tribute") (at London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) rehearsal hall, ST Lukes Church,- dunno about moved to tears, but certainly a prickle behind the eyes: turned up for Bob's birthday party last year but the upstairs room was packed, so toasted him with a half of Lewes's finest, Harvey's!, downstairs in the Royal Oak... wonderful gentleman :) Appropos of links with one's ancestors - like the Coppers: just discovered my (erstwhile "missing")great-grandparents are probably buried at St Luke's - wonder if the bones got moved with the renovation? |
|
18 Feb 05 - 08:23 PM (#1414483) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Merina It was a nice contrast between the Awards Show and the gorgeous Bob Copper family film, I thought - and very decent of BBC TV to have run them like that. On the one hand, the professional folk world shown in a generally good light, on the other the real tradition - each good and important in its own way and I enjoyed both. The Awards show didn't do the old folkrockers, Oysters & Steeleye, many favours and whereas the elderly Bob Copper came over as charming, the elderly Tom Paxton was a bit embarrassing. But everybody else was good. Putting Bellowhead and the rapper side on at the beginning was the oddest thing though. I thought they stole the show, which is usually better placed at the end! The only shame was that there weren't many of the scene's younger performers featured - although I thought I spotted a few in the audience. Maybe they could give a spot to the winner of the Young Tradition award. |
|
18 Feb 05 - 08:47 PM (#1414507) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: akenaton How can the BBC manage to ruin the sound in a show like this!! At times the performers were inaudible,especially Cathie Tickle, who was drowned by her backing. Big Edna did her usual sterling job of setting Rabbie Burns birlin in his grave!! I agree with Jock...Karine Polwort looked something special, but Ill have to wait till I hear her properly before I can be sure. Im ashamed to say I had never heard her before, but Ill certainly buy her CD In a few years the face of folk music will have changed out of all recognition,into something resembling punk rock. Is it the death knell at last for we dinosaurs of the revival?? Is it the end of "folk music" Where is the beauty and the emotion? Energy and volume are no substitute...Ake |
|
18 Feb 05 - 10:20 PM (#1414556) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,punkfolkrocker maddy prior deserves award for scariest old hippy dancer of the new millenium.. i had to hide behind the sofa until she'd finished flailing about like an embarrising dervish auntie on too many sherries and hash cakes.. However, she sings brilliantly.. and the band sounded great.. |
|
18 Feb 05 - 11:41 PM (#1414602) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: George Papavgeris Ake, re your last two lines: "As long as someone sings a song, as long as someone listens, as sure as summer follows spring and sun will rise and set, and even when we are long gone, this story is never ending: As long as someone sings a song it isn't over yet". i.e. I'm with the hopeful brigade. Live, participatory, non-star-system, unamplified music will live on; one way or another. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 02:09 AM (#1414682) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: DMcG The one thing that spoiled the television show for me was this fixation of the video department that you cannot stay with one camera for more than a few seconds (except during the announcements themselves, apparently.) The rapper sequence in particular was completely ruined by moving away from the dancing to show three seconds of a closeup of the trumpet(?) mouthpiece, another few seconds of the head of one of the women dancing alongside the rappers, and so on. I guess the rapper itself was only visible for about half the time. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 03:30 AM (#1414711) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: greg stephens Very interesting programme(I only caught the last half). Karine Polwart sings well, I had the pleasure of meeting her at a Scottish gig last year(her drummer/fiancee was playing with the Boat Band)...but I hadnt heard her sing before. Excellent. What I think is a bit of a pity is that these occasions are dominated by,and created for, a very narrow "folk scene", and do not really connect meaningfully with folk music(in the old sense of the word) in Britain. I appreciate that "Folk Awards" trips easier off the tongue than "Awards for people who have adapted material of folk origin into something a little more marketable(though not hugely so)". But it would be nice to see appreciation of something a little more hardcore folky(even a bit more multicultural?) but I suppose they dont want to scare the viewers. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 04:11 AM (#1414731) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Lancashire Lad Thoroughly enjoyed watching it on TV last night, but some of the sound was dreadful (Oysterband and Steeleye in particular). Great night for Ms Polwart, but glad it was on after the watershed. "Maddy, pull yer skirt down love" LL |
|
19 Feb 05 - 04:21 AM (#1414734) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Linda Kelly The sound was truly awful, so disappointed with Tom Paxton's set, and with Steeleye. Never really liked Oysterband and they were not improved by the guests. Karine Polwart and Bellowhead saved the night. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 05:51 AM (#1414774) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: shepherdlass Ditto the earlier comments on sound - who on earth over-egged the chorus pedal on the Tom Paxton song? Everything sounded out of tune as a result. And how the hell can you lose June Tabor's voice in the mix? Bellowhead and Karine Polwart both sounded brilliant - maybe as less long-established artists, they have to cope with lousy sound mixes on a more regular basis? Would have like to see Maddy Prior invade the stage during Rambling Jack's number. That would have looked like a scary bar scene from a Tom Waits song. Mind you, good on them both for being so sprightly. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 06:02 AM (#1414780) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Herge The Irish didnt get much of a look in! |
|
19 Feb 05 - 08:32 AM (#1414881) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: akenaton El Greko.....Thanks for your message ,it lifted my spirits somewhat. The "Revival" was driven by audiance participation, are wew now too self obsessed to participate in anything? Even during Paxtons spot, the audiance were embarrassed and self conscious. At one time the roof would have lifted off. Participation *is* folk music and if it is lost, we can pull the curtain for good. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 09:21 AM (#1414914) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Merina Somebody who was there told me that the audience were all singing along lustily to The Last Thing on my Mind, also that Rambling Jack Elliot got a big standing ovation, but neither of those came over on the TV. Bad editing maybe. They seemed to use the same audience shots of the same people looking bored all the way through. Maybe they filmed those while the speeches were going on - they weren't anywhere near as good as Steven Fry and Phil Jupitus last year. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 10:49 AM (#1414963) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: nutty I also thought the sound man, for the live performances, should be shot. It was awful, no wonder folk doesn't appear too often on TV. I've never thought of Ramblin Jack Elliott as a folk singer (much too country bluesey for my taste) and I was saddened that the awards concentrated on what I see as the 'Professional' folkies. Where was Louis Killen , Cyril Tawney, Harvey Andrews, Eric Bogle, Mick Ryan and the hundreds of other bread and butter singers that have kept folk alive. Watching once was an experience but I don't think I'll bother again. Give me Bob Copper and his ilk any day. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 10:52 AM (#1414966) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Sarah the flute It was all a bit stringy and reedy....nice to see an oboe being used but alas no whistles, no flutes Bit sad in a way that it was mostly old timers getting the gongs BUT it was enjoyable and good to see folk getting some airplay Sarah |
|
19 Feb 05 - 10:59 AM (#1414971) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Prize Pedant Louis Killen , Cyril Tawney, Harvey Andrews, Eric Bogle, Mick Ryan: so these are "non-professional" are they? If you're claiming they don't command a fee, why do you have to pay to get into their gigs? As for last year's ceremony, the one I saw had Stephen Fry and Phill Jupitus as guest speakers. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 11:19 AM (#1414992) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST Here in the USA we didn't get the opportunity to watch the awards (or at least I didn't) but have you heard the latest Martin Carthy CD" Waiting for Angels". It's fantastic! Genius and innovative. It's nothing short of the top quality that this performer has put forth for the last forty years. You folks are lucky to have access in your own back yard to this deft talent. |
|
19 Feb 05 - 02:53 PM (#1415088) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Tunesmith I thought the sound was terrible - as were most of the performances! |
|
19 Feb 05 - 03:10 PM (#1415098) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Giok 99 I agree thst the sound was poor, if they can manage to mute one of the most carrying voices in folk [Maddy Prior god bless her] then they can fuck up anything. I always reckon that you could pick out Maddy's singing in a choir of 100 voices. I am also puzzled by the award to Martin Carthy for the best new recording of a traditional song, can't remember the song, but I'm sure I have an identical recording to the clip they played, from a long time back. Giok |
|
19 Feb 05 - 03:12 PM (#1415100) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John C. Didn't see this - doesn't sound like I missed much, though. Was Billy Bragg there? The BBC seems to wheel him out every time they cover 'Folk' (about once in a blue moon!). What Mr Bragg has got to do with folk, I've yet to find out! |
|
19 Feb 05 - 03:29 PM (#1415111) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie He has more 'Steet cred' than Phil Jupitus and Stephen 'Bloody' Fry, he was chosen to record some of Woody Guthrie's archive writings by Woody's family. He set words of Woody's to music of his own, and a very good job he made of it too. His credentials, working class and left leaning make him a good choice for the job. I have no axe to grind, as I feel about Billy Bragg as I used to about Bob Dylan, i.e I prefer other people doing his songs, [good songs too] Giok |
|
20 Feb 05 - 01:46 AM (#1415417) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Lancashire Lad Ditto Gioks comments on Billy Bragg. Great songs and a genuine person. LL |
|
20 Feb 05 - 04:57 AM (#1415439) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Dave Hanson What is wrong with the BBC, they must have no professional sound engineers at all, the sound was total crap. Tom Paxtons voice didn't come through at all, Ramblin jack had to adjust his mic, June Tabor couldn't heard at all. What was shown on TV was a differently edited programme from what was on Radio 2. In fact it was all a Smooth Operations production so maybe they were to blame. eric |
|
20 Feb 05 - 05:10 AM (#1415443) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Hamish Listening on the net while doing the ironing, I'm about half-way through and it's as boring as, well, the ironing, really. Such long, rambling, ill-prepared speeeches. It's just as well the music's more entertaining. Hold, on though: what about that Martin Carthy song? That was the most turgid thing ever. Kathryn Tickell was brilliant. Bellowhead good, too, but they always come across as being rather less than the sum of their parts. Helluva set of parts, tho'! Oh, the other thing was the prominence of the Scottish contingent throughout the whole evening. |
|
20 Feb 05 - 05:38 AM (#1415449) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie Yes I forgot to mention Carthy's murder of Bonnie Woodhall, that was a dire dirge. It is a bit of a Carthy trademark to slow tunes down, sometimes it works like his version of the Ant and the Crow, but this time it was a failure. Sorry Martin! Giok |
|
20 Feb 05 - 05:41 AM (#1415453) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,in the know >the other thing was the prominence of the Scottish contingent throughout the whole evening. Its a hushed-up secret that various Scottish record labels and promoters had a meeting with Smooth Operations at last years Celtic Connections (jan 2004) to complain that they were never included in the folk awards - hence their sudden dominance this year. As for sound, over the last few years the standard of engineering at BBC outside broadcasts seems to have gone steadily downwards. Which is odd as they should be world leaders, and its not as if they don't have people with the skill and expertise (Ralphie?). But I've witnessed some of the crimes against audio engineering first hand, and I can't understand what has happened. At most live events you will find the contingent of crew who just want to smoke fags with "stage crew" written on their shirt, but at the BBC you expect a bit more than that. The band I work with have now resorted to taking three different engineers to any festival or event being broadcast - one for front of house, one for monitors, and another to mix the broadcast sound. You just can't trust people anymore, which is a shame. |
|
20 Feb 05 - 05:49 AM (#1415459) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: nutty Soooo .... It's not just coincidence that an edited version of Celtic Connections is due to be broadcast on BBC4 this week. |
|
20 Feb 05 - 08:15 AM (#1415516) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Seaking The programme is being shown again 0030 Tuesday morning.. Radio 2 Folk Awards 2005 Mike Harding and Mary Ann Kennedy host the annual folk awards, featuring live performances from many of the nominated artists including English originals Martin Carthy and Steeleye Span, American folk legends Tom Paxton and Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Scottish songstress Eddi Reader and hotly tipped newcomer Karine Polwart. There's also an eclectic rollcall of guest presenters, including Terry Pratchett, Noddy Holder, Bruce Dickinson and Charles Kennedy. Performances include: Bellowhead - Copshawholme Fair Martin Carthy - Bonny Woodhall Eddi Reader featuring Phil Cunningham and Aly Bain - Willie Stewart Kathryn Tickell - Herd Tom Paxton featuring Ralph McTell - The Last Thing On My Mind Oysterband The Big Session featuring June Tabor and Show of Hands - John Barleycorn Karine Polwart - The Sun's Comin' Over The Hill Ramblin' Jack Elliott - San Francisco Bay Blues Tue 22 Feb, 00:30-02:00 90mins Stereo Widescreen |
|
20 Feb 05 - 08:44 AM (#1415526) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie Akenaton, apropos of your remark about 'Big Edna' setting Rabbie birlin' in his grave. I know what you mean but I've heard a lot worse, and every time I watch her enjoying herself on stage I can't help thinking, not only would Rabbie have liked her, but he would have fancied her as much as I do. Giok ¦¬] |
|
20 Feb 05 - 08:52 AM (#1415530) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Prize Pedant Stereo Widescreen ...oh yeah? Don't worry if all you've got is a Freeview box with tiny screen and mono sound. In fact. this is probably the better option. |
|
20 Feb 05 - 12:35 PM (#1415639) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: akenaton pervert.... |
|
20 Feb 05 - 12:58 PM (#1415656) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Bloke in the Corner Fancy anyone going up against their holinesses Lord Aly of Bain & Lord Philip of Cunningham!! No chance for the opposition there! No-one plays it the way those boys do. June Tabor couldn't be heard because he song was pitched even below her register so she couldn't get any power in her voice. Katherine Tickell's pipes are, amazingly, very quiet, - a friend plays the same type at a local session - and the sound man obviously saw 'pipes'and set his level for Scots pipes. For the rest, God bless Tom, Paxton, but he really couldn't do 'Last thing' justice any more. He should have left it to Ralph McTell, who could also have taken us on a tour of the streets of some capital city. And why no mention of Eddy Reader? A great performer and, for my part, the best music of the evening. Oh, and up he came again, Mr Carthy. OK, he's a legend. But if he goes any slower he'll stop, and his song was a bit boring. Here endeth.. |
|
20 Feb 05 - 01:09 PM (#1415662) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie Ah Bloke on Corner, Edi Reader has been mentioned twice under her pseudenym of 'Big Edna'. Dinnae blame me Edna, it wis thon Akenaton so it wis, ah think ye're pure dead brilliant so ah dae! Pervert; sycophant; moi? Giok ¦¬] |
|
20 Feb 05 - 06:48 PM (#1415916) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Demons Fan LesB "Really enjoyed Bellowhead, but a bit cheeky pinching half of the Demon Barbers Roadshow (Who should have been nominated!!!)." Hi Les, I agree that the Demons should have been nominated, but this from an email to their mailing list suggests they were more than happy to be there: "It's not so long ago that we announced our new managers...Queen Mab's Music. Now we have been offered the opportunity of celebrating this in style!…a collaboration with one of their top acts at the Radio 2 Folk Awards 2005. bellowhead have been nominated for both 'best group' and 'best live act' and will be opening the party with a specially adapted version of copshawholme fair. Somehow The Demon Barber Roadshow are going to join them with: Bry - fiddle; Ben - percussion; Tiny & Fi – clogs; Damien, Lee, Will, Andy & Dave – rapper. Total people on stage: 20…what fun!" Cheers, Pat. |
|
21 Feb 05 - 05:12 AM (#1416235) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: breezy How is Vin Garbutt? These awards are divorced from 'folk' as I know it. Its a dying body desperately striving for its next breath. The BBC does sod all for Folk. Its a shame, but its true. Pandering to the mass media and thus giving 'folk' professionals an over inflated opinion of their own self importance. Folk clubs will continue to decline. Now wheres my play station. This Friday 25th Feb at the Windward Club at the Royal British Legion in St Albans , Redd Sullivan and Martin Winsors Guitarist the fantastic Chris Flegg On Sunday at the Spotlight Folk and Song Club in The Legion George Papavgeris start 8.00 no-smoking Where its at. Well, what did you expect? |
|
21 Feb 05 - 08:33 AM (#1416324) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Essex Girl Congratulations to Kathryn Tickell, the best performer on the awards. Nice to see Steeleye, I remember singing at the same clubs as Maddy Prior in the sixties, but where were the singer/songwriters. Although Karine's song was very pleasant there are far better 'down south' i.e. Les Sullivan and El Greko. Eddi Reader sang C & W. These awards are not representative of folk music in this country, only of what the BBC wants to put out. |
|
21 Feb 05 - 09:09 AM (#1416345) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: The Borchester Echo Essex Girl, did you miss the start? Bellowhead plus some of the Demon Barbers put an an opening act that was really hard to follow and a brilliant showcase of where English music is now. |
|
21 Feb 05 - 09:47 AM (#1416371) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Ralphie Hi Peoples. Regarding the sound quality, I can't comment because I haven't seen or heard the programme yet. Usually at a gig like this, each feed from stage is split 3 ways, 1 for Front of House, 1 for Monitors, and 1 for the Broadcast mobile. (that's every single Mic/DI etc) All of whom mix accordingly. TV normally take the Radio Mix, maybe adding some more Audience mics (for use during applause etc). Whether this was the case this time, I'm not sure, but I'm seeing the Man that did the "Radio" mix later today, and will quiz him!! But you may be able to get the point that with each act only doing one piece, and the changeovers having to be seen as slick for the TV bods, it can get a bit hairy outside!! At least at Glasto, Reading etc, the bands do 50 Mins or so, and you can treat the first song as the soundcheck! (Hence the much used phrase "Here Mate, Don't do your hit single first!" Didn't really apply to Paul McCartney though!!) Will report back later... Cheers Ralphie |
|
21 Feb 05 - 05:06 PM (#1416775) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Ralphie Reporting back. Yes, it's as I suspected...Too much to do, too little time. Obviously, at an award ceremony, you can hardly do re-takes!! and with several technical difficulties during the day, it was a case of winging it on the night...It happens sometimes. But, to reply to an earlier note from GUEST "In the know". I'd love to know at which specific occasion he managed to get his own sound man running a BBC Mobile!! Even Phil Collins never managed that. It wouldn't even be considered I'm afraid. Something to do with Health and Safety. So, please enlighten me Thanks Ralphie |
|
22 Feb 05 - 05:59 AM (#1417238) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST I agree about the sound quality I had to turn the volume up to nearly all the way at the second half of Steeleye's performance. Maddy Prior was fanastic tho :-). |
|
22 Feb 05 - 11:29 AM (#1417538) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Lancashire Lad Hasn't Mike Harding got fat? |
|
22 Feb 05 - 11:43 AM (#1417548) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie I thought the denim jacket was a mistake; and don't you mean fatTER? Giok |
|
22 Feb 05 - 04:24 PM (#1417822) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Santa Well, I enjoyed it. I thought it represented the people I see and hear at my club and the festivals I go to, plus a few I now want to go and see, plus (inevitably) a few that just didn't sound good on the night. No, it didn't give an award to everyone who might be thought worthy - nothing for Threllfall Ellison and Edwards, if I can name one - but we all have our favourites. For the BBC to put on that, followed by the superb Copper family film, and an hour of June Tabor magic.....let's give them a bit of praise where it is due, not be forever whinging into our beer and sandals! Now for the repeat on a more accessable channel? |
|
22 Feb 05 - 04:32 PM (#1417829) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Ralphie Santa. Couldn't have put it better meself...! Lets get lobbying! Ralphie |
|
23 Feb 05 - 07:46 AM (#1418555) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: muppitz The only 2 things I have to say about the Folk awards is: "Isn't it time Bob Fox got a look in?" The guy is constantly out there performing, he is of top calibre and a total gentleman! Did anyone else see him do a set with Vin Garbutt at Saltburn Folk Fest 2004? THAT WAS bloody magic, I wanted to bottle it up and take it away with me! And Karine Polwart deserved everything she got, she has a wonderful voice, writes some cracking songs and is really friendly to boot! muppitz x |
|
23 Feb 05 - 08:51 AM (#1418589) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Pete_Standing The only 2 things I have to say about the Folk awards are: Stop it. No more money for bean feasts. In time it will become as ridiculous/pointless as all the other awards. Those Demon Barbers were good. Use the money saved from above to (at least part) sponsor them going into schools to enthuse the kids about trad dancing. |
|
23 Feb 05 - 05:01 PM (#1418880) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: MuddleC QUOTE..Yes, it's as I suspected...Too much to do, too little time. Obviously, at an award ceremony, you can hardly do re-takes!! and with several technical difficulties during the day, it was a case of winging it on the night...It happens sometimes. SOOORREEEE! that does not cut it.. Beeb have been doing outside broadcast for donkey's years, and obviously have 'lost the plot' I thought the telly was on the fritz, fiddled with treble bass stereo, nicam, loudness, even oiled the hamster's wheel... but to no avail. BEEB spooks, If you expect live acts, monitor the mix on a portable telly, then you can hear the balls up that you are making... perhaps the sound guys didn't appreciate the difference between blues, country, pipes, acoustic and vocal... for it was all there |
|
24 Feb 05 - 11:35 AM (#1419669) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Ralphie Oooh! I'll consider myself slapped then. No other comment needed. Certainly won't start a flame war of the "My Balance is better than Your Balance" variety. Let's just agree to differ. Regards Ralphie |
|
24 Feb 05 - 11:46 AM (#1419676) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST, Sir Mike Harding Bugger off you lot! |
|
24 Feb 05 - 03:41 PM (#1419928) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: MuddleC Ralphie, didn't intend to pillory you, it just seems that modern TV crews(directors) seem to like only alighting on someone/thing for oneandahalf nano seconds before cutting to another camera for 3 nanoseconds, then off to yet another 'snapshot...... blink and miss at least three camera cuts... perhaps its a matter of getting the eye blink rate right in order to see the same picture/subject for more than 1 second.... as 'folkie' audiences are a bit older, our attention span is longer than that of the young 'goldfish' viewer... and this is made worse by 'dumbing down' the significant voice/instrument in a set by swamping them with the multiple supporting instruments in the ensemble, thus losing the very characteristics that they are known for Regards -Victor Meldrew |
|
24 Feb 05 - 05:04 PM (#1420018) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Ralphie MuddleC. Point taken, and humbly accepted. Critisism is always valid, and yours will be passed on I assure you. Don't get me started re TV coverage of such events...Please!! Having now heard the R2 coverage....Bugger, Glad I wasn't on that gig!! Just to let you know, the main balancer on the Radio truck, is one of the best. Life sucks sometimes.... Mea Culpa! Ralphie (pleading for more soundcheck time ....please) |
|
25 Feb 05 - 01:32 PM (#1420865) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Geoff Evans hi, somewhere in this thread there is mention of the Ongley Arms at Eyeworth. My parents kept this pub for nearly 40 years until its closure - I grew up there and I cant remember a folk club - I would really like to know when this was ?? look forward to hearing from you. |
|
25 Feb 05 - 01:45 PM (#1420875) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Auldtimer Well I just managed to see a video of the 2005 BBC folk awards. I am soooo pleased that soooo many "stars", "movers & shakers" and big important people, are "Folk fans", and have been since........well for ever? (or at least since they were asked to say a fiew sincere words on the show). So we have had our heads patted and we can all feel asured that there is not too much wrong with liking folk music after all, go back into our wooly jumpers and waistcoats and Laura Ashley circa.1976 skirts and head scarves and shut up, our ONE folk television show of the year has been and gone. This show was NO advertisement for Folk music, badly cobbled together and generaly as rough as the proverbial badgers bottom. The sound was worse that bad, close to unbroadcastable. Unfortunatly some of the performances were far from acceptable either. Can someone tell me ....How tall is Mike Harding? The Oyster Band, why? What is the hand thing that Big Edna keeps doing? Why did nobody say "Maddy, no". Best of the night was Steeleye Span, Kathryn Tickell and Noddy Holder. |
|
25 Feb 05 - 03:29 PM (#1420973) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Hugh Jampton John C, I couldn`t have said it better myself. |
|
26 Feb 05 - 04:51 AM (#1421329) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: John MacKenzie Big Edna always does 'that thing' with her hands, I think she's descended from Isadora Duncan. Giok |
|
26 Feb 05 - 01:15 PM (#1421580) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST,Auldtimer Well Giok, I hope she is more carefull when mixing scarfs and open top sports cars. As it hapens, Big Edna was on telly again last night, on BBC4 on a Celtic Connections program. She sang some rather weird song (doing that folkie thing of singing sitting down with the eyes closed) and half way through....she did the hand, latter improvising by attempting a double hander!!. Strange song or not, she was in excellent voice, she is a grand singer with power, range and control but the choice of material and arangement too often lets her down. This Celtic Connections program WAS an advertisement for folk and Traditional music with tremendous performances from Kathryn Tickell, Mairtain O'Conner, Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill, Larla O Lionaird and Michael McGoldrick. There is another program on shortly but I don't have a date. |
|
26 Feb 05 - 06:56 PM (#1421841) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Tattie Bogle She's got Karen Matheson doing it too - the hand thing, I mean! They were both at it at Hogmanay! |
|
27 Feb 05 - 06:18 AM (#1422154) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Santa 2nd programme, same time same place (Friday 9pm BBC4?). The first was repeated on Saturday night, so presumably so will the 2nd. |
|
27 Feb 05 - 09:00 AM (#1422201) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Sarah the flute yeaaaayyy there was a flute on Celtic Connections....viva les blowy things!!!!! Not just any flute either but my fav Michael McGoldrick. Ahhh the BBC have risen again to the call Sarah |
|
28 Feb 05 - 05:28 PM (#1423289) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: Tattie Bogle I woz there in the Arches: what a band! Can't wait for his next CD! TB |
|
18 Apr 05 - 10:10 AM (#1464304) Subject: RE: 2005 BBC folk awards - opinions? From: GUEST I agree with Mike |