On December 18 2006, Robbie Williams played the last of 59 stadium shows in a row, announced he was going to spend Christmas at his home in Los Angeles, and then basically disappeared. He was hardly seen at all in 2007. He briefly checked into rehab. He spent quite a bit of time hiking and playing football (he owns a football pitch on Mulholland Drive). Then he stopped hiking and playing football. His record company, EMI, announced he had no plans to release an album in 2008. Today he unexpectedly calls me to ask if I want to go with him to the desert in Nevada to meet UFO abductees.
I'm loving aliens insteadRobbie Williams disappeared from view at the end of 2006. Since then, he has become obsessed with UFOs and extraterrestrials. To gather evidence, he and Jon Ronson headed deep into the Nevada desert Saturday April 19, 2008The Guardian Robbie Williams and Jon Ronson in Nevada. Look, doesn't he have a big, bushy beard?
On December 18 2006, Robbie Williams played the last of 59 stadium shows in a row, announced he was going to spend Christmas at his home in Los Angeles, and then basically disappeared. He was hardly seen at all in 2007. He briefly checked into rehab. He spent quite a bit of time hiking and playing football (he owns a football pitch on Mulholland Drive). Then he stopped hiking and playing football. His record company, EMI, announced he had no plans to release an album in 2008. Today he unexpectedly calls me to ask if I want to go with him to the desert in Nevada to meet UFO abductees.
"I've been spending so much time at home on the internet on sites like AboveTopSecret.com," he says. "I want to do something. I want to go out there and meet these people. I want to be a part of this. I want to do something other than sit in my bed and watch the news. And it starts with the UFO conference in Laughlin, Nevada, on Thursday. We can hear people's testimony about being abducted by aliens. There's an entire family of abductees going to be there, apparently."
I log on to the conference website. It's taking place at the quite down at heel-looking Aquarius hotel and casino. The conference slogan is Educating The World One Person At A Time, which makes it sound as if there won't be many people attending. The speakers will include Ann Andrews, from Lincolnshire, who claims her son Jason has had "disturbing experiences at the hands of many different alien species", and a surgeon, Dr Roger Leir, who claims he has extracted from patients 15 metallic implants that are not of earthly metal.
"I wonder if he'll bring the implants along," I say.
"So you can see with your own eyes whether they're earthly or not?" Robbie asks.
"Yes," I say.
"According to Jon," Robbie says.
He seems a bit disapproving of my scepticism. I tell him that my problem with spaceships is this: if they exist, why do they reveal themselves to the human race only in ambiguous ways? "I think maybe they're making mistakes," he replies. "I think the shield comes off by mistake and they were there all the time." He pauses. "I don't want to hear any debunking because I want to believe."
I fly to Los Angeles. When Robbie comes to his door, I hardly recognise him. He has grown a very bushy beard. He sees me scrutinising it, slightly agape, and says, "OK, I'm piecing it together now. I've grown a beard and I'm going to Nevada to speak to people about UFOs. I think I should shave so I don't look so mad."
Actually, I don't think his beard is a visual symbol of any kind of madness. This is just the first time in 18 years he has taken a break from work and is enjoying doing things he was never before allowed to do, which includes having a beard.
"Pop stars aren't allowed to have beards," he says. "Name me a pop star with a beard."
"Biffy Clyro," I say.
"I'm talking about pop stars," Robbie says.
We go to his TV room. His girlfriend, the actor Ayda Field, is in there, watching a UFO DVD. We all watch it. This isn't all he does nowadays - he has been writing songs and playing golf, too - but the paranormal has become a very big part of his life since he disappeared from public view.
Robbie first contacted me in 2005. He telephoned me out of the blue from a hotel in Blackpool where he was filming the video for Advertising Space. He said he liked a book I had written about conspiracy theorists and was thinking of spending a night in a haunted house.
"Do you know any?" he asked.
"I'll make some inquiries if you like," I said.
I spent a week sending emails: "Dear Lady X, I've read that, if the portrait in your drawing room is moved, a ghost is apparently disturbed and manifests itself. The pop star Robbie Williams would like to spend a night in a haunted house and so I wonder whether he and I can pay a private visit."
I expected not to hear back from anybody but, in fact, once I invoked Williams' name, owners of country piles started flinging their ghosts at me as if they were their debutante daughters.
"One of the guest bedrooms is definitely haunted by a young woman called Abigail who was starved to death by a monk in 1732," emailed one baroness. "Robbie is more than welcome to spend the night."
I was surprised to find how widespread the belief in ghosts was among the aristocracy. Every person I contacted responded instantly to say their houses were definitely haunted and Robbie was more than welcome to spend the night. But it never happened. He cancelled because of his workload; he had to fly around the world to promote his album, Intensive Care. But we kept in touch. He'd speak wistfully about some future day when he'd have less work on and could investigate the paranormal for real. And now that day has come.
Laughlin, Nevada, looks from the sky like a tiny, ugly Las Vegas, a cluster of crumbling themed casinos poking strangely out of an expanse of desert. We are travelling here in a private plane that Robbie has rented for the day. He has brought along Ayda and a lugubrious friend, Brandon. Being on a private plane is exciting. The flight attendant says Snoop Dogg often uses this plane and we can do anything we like. Robbie and his friends look at each other. The truth is, everyone is getting a bit older. Everyone here is nice and polite and quite genteel, and so, instead of doing "anything", we spend the journey eating breakfast rolls and talking about how exciting it is to be on a private plane.
"The toilet is amazing," I say.
"Am I allowed to stand as we land?" Brandon asks.
"We're on a private plane going to Nevada to hear abductees speak about their experiences," Robbie says. "That's ace."
We land. A car is waiting on the Tarmac to take us to the nearby Aquarius hotel. We take the escalator to the second floor, walk past the stalls selling Secret Space: What Is Nasa Hiding? DVDs, past a giant inflatable alien, and into the cavernous conference room where British speaker Ann Andrews has just begun her audiovisual presentation to an audience of 500.
I have to say, after all the anticipation, she seems a bit boring to me. She's recounting various tales of alien visitations in quite a dull voice. I half switch off and glance over at Robbie. He is engrossed. He is leaning forward, taking in every word, rapt. I decide to pay more attention so I can try to understand why.
Ann Andrews' life was quite ordinary, she says, until 1984, the year her son, Jason, was born. She flashes on to the screen a snapshot of a sweet little boy sitting in a field in Lincolnshire with a horse in the background.
"That's Jason," she says.
One day, when Jason was a toddler, Ann says she noticed he had a terrified look on his face. She asked what was wrong. He replied that aliens had appeared the night before at the foot of his bed and taken him to their spaceship, where they conducted tests on him. He said it was happening every night. As the weeks and months passed, Jason's story apparently never changed. When nobody was looking, aliens would come, float him up to a spaceship, and teach him the mysteries of the universe. They would teach him that he was placed on earth to become a psychic sage.
"We took him to a psychiatrist," Ann says. "We cried so much. We had him tested. But the tests all came back negative."
And then one day when Jason was 12, Ann says she made a very big decision. She decided to take the giant leap and believe her son. Every word. She has subsequently written a series of books about Jason including one called Jason, My Indigo Child: Raising A Multidimensional Star Child In A Changing World.
I lean over to Robbie.
"She believes Jason!" I whisper. "She believes it all! Isn't that amazing?"
"What's the other side of that, though?" Robbie whispers back. "It's either believe everything the boy is saying or remain steadfast to earthly beliefs and have a black sheep in the family. 'Oh, it's him again.' For her own sanity she has had to believe him." He pauses. "But for me, right now," he says, "everything she's saying is true."
Ann's audiovisual address ends with her projecting on to the screen behind her a series of extremely blurry photographs. From time to time, she says, Jason is summoned to the spaceship for some psychic brush-up training. When this happens, Ann tries to photograph the UFOs. But she has only a disposable camera and so the pictures always come out fuzzy and inconclusive.
It's time for the Q&A. Unexpectedly, Robbie's friend Brandon stands up and walks to the front. Brandon is a record producer and co-wrote some of the songs on Robbie's last album, Rudebox.
"I just wanted to ask, why don't you buy a better camera?" he says. A slight gasp reverberates around the hall. People don't usually ask cynical questions at UFO conferences.
"I'm absolutely useless at anything technological," Ann replies.
"Have you ever had any psychiatric evaluation or presented yourself for that?" Brandon asks. Robbie flinches and smiles.
"No, I haven't," Ann says. "I'd like to think I'm all there, but if I'm not, there are quite a few of us that have these experiences, so maybe we're all crazy!" She laughs, awkwardly.
"Thank you very much," Brandon says.
Robbie goes out for a cigarette. I tell Brandon I'm surprised Robbie brought him along after what he'd said about not wanting to hear any debunking.
"There's two sides to Rob in that respect, though, aren't there?" Brandon says. "There's the side that wants to go along with it, but there's also a very sarcastic, sceptical side." He pauses. "Which I'd like to think is the real side." Robbie comes back.
"My toes curled up the moment you walked towards the stage," he tells Brandon. "But I think questioning somebody's sanity when this is happening to them is perfectly acceptable. I question my own."
We're standing near the table where Ann is signing copies of her various books about Jason.
"She reminds me of my mother," Robbie says, glancing at her. "Mum was a tarot card reader. She'd have people round and read their palms. She'd talk about spirits and ghosts. On the shelf of books just outside her room, there'd be the books about the world's mysteries, elves, demons, witchcraft. I was so scared. I'd never talk to her about it. Instead, I just lived in fear of all of this stuff. Maybe that's why I want to investigate UFOs and ghosts and everything. So I can work out why I get scared at night." He pauses. "I'll go and say hello to her."
He approaches the table. "Hi, darling," he says, "I'm Rob. Can I buy a book from you? Will you sign it for me? How is Jason these days? Is he happy? Has he got many friends?"
"No," Ann says, "Jason doesn't have many friends at all. In fact, it's been awful, really. He's socially shunned."
"When did this social shunning begin?" Robbie asks. "What age?"
"I suppose it was when my first book about him came out," Ann replies, "when he was 14. He lost all his friends at school. Nobody wanted to know him. And, of course, word got around the small village where we live. It got very nasty."
"I can completely relate to that," Robbie says. "What is it he encounters from people?"
"In England, in particular, people are really spiteful," Ann says. "They ridicule him. They call out things from across the road like, 'Oi! Mental boy!' "
Robbie puts his hand on Ann's hand.
"Even if this was all made up, which I don't believe, by the way. Even if it was," Robbie says, "compassion should be shown anyway. Well, thank you." Robbie pays for the book and goes to leave.
"You know," says Ann, "you look very much like Robbie Williams." There's a silence. It's as if Robbie was having so much fun, he briefly forgot who he is.
"I am Robbie Williams," he says.
"Can I just say I'm a big fan of yours?" she says.
"Oh, bless you. Thanks, darling," he says. "And please send Jason my best. Maybe we can have a chat one day. In fact..." Robbie writes out his email address for Ann. "Tell him to drop me a line if he wants. It must have been a terrible time for you, and an awful time for him. It's just so sad to hear it happens. It's happened to me."
"Really?" Ann says.
"I think joining Take That was like leaving on a spaceship," Robbie says, "and coming back and all your friends going, 'He's weird now.'"
We queue for the lunch buffet at the restaurant.
"I'm glad I had a chance to sit down with her and talk to her, so I could see her eyes and read her," Robbie says. "She's a really beautiful woman."
"It's interesting that you identified with Jason," I say.
"But that's not what I want to talk about," Robbie says. "Because it's long-winded, and whingeing, and nobody wants to hear a whinger." He pauses. "But if I was doing your job I'd be asking that, because I'm asking the same question of myself, about why that nearly moved me to tears."
He signs a few autographs, and then a few more, and then everyone starts asking for his autograph, including one elderly American who says, "I don't know who you are but my daughter works for MTV and so she might." Word has obviously got around the conference that, in the absence of any aliens, the most interesting thing to have come down from the sky today is Robbie Williams. One conference organiser asks him if he'll consider being their official spokesperson.
"We need someone like you to spread the word and get the young people in," he says. Robbie seems quite attracted by the offer.
"This is possibly the most important thing ever to happen to the planet," he says. "It just amazes me that people aren't as interested as I am in this stuff."
There is so much commotion, we miss much of the next presentation and consequently never find out "what happened when four artists embarked in 1976 on what was expected to be a routine fishing trip".
This isn't the first time that Robbie's fame has hindered his forays into the paranormal world. A few years ago he invited the TV psychic Derek Acorah to his home for a psychic reading. A story subsequently appeared in the Sun under the headline, I Helped Robbie Williams Talk To His Dead Gran:
"Robbie invited me to his apartment in London. We chatted and he told me how much he loved the programme [Living TV's Most Haunted]. He said he had given Most Haunted DVDs to lots of friends, including Robert De Niro, Danny DeVito and Billy Crystal, and they were hooked. I was able to contact a couple of his loved ones, including his grandmother, whom he dearly loved. It was very emotional."
"The twat used my dead nan to sell his DVD!" Robbie told me, quite furiously, at the time. "Plus, I've never met Robert De Niro, Danny DeVito and Billy Crystal. I've never even met them!"
Robbie never spoke to Acorah again, but he persevered with psychics for a while. He met one he liked a lot more, but then one night over dinner the man told Robbie that he wasn't only a leading psychic, he was also "one of only eight people outside Japan ever to be awarded a samuraiship". He said if anything were to happen in Japan, he would have to drop his psychic career "and fly over there to protect the emperor". After dinner Robbie did a bit of research and discovered that nobody has been awarded a samuraiship since 1872 and that "samuraiship" isn't even a real word.
"Haven't all those bad experiences with psychics shaken your wider faith in the paranormal?"
"I suppose they have," he says. "I never watch psychic TV shows any more." He shrugs. "And I suppose it might happen with UFOs, too. And then I might be able to get on with my life."
But if that day ever comes, it's not going to be today, for at this moment an intriguing rumour reaches us. Apparently, a woman tells Ayda, a number of conference attendees spotted a battle between two giant reptilian beings in the desert outside the hotel the other night .
"Did anyone take any photographs of the battle?" Ayda asks her.
"No," she says, "but someone collected a tissue sample and gave it to Dr Roger Leir. He might show it to you, if you can find him."
Robbie says he'd recognise Dr Leir if he saw him. He has been a talking head on UFO documentaries Robbie has watched. And, sure enough, he spots him in the coffee shop adjacent to the casino. Robbie says he feels starstruck around UFO experts in the way other people feel starstruck around pop stars.
"Doctor," he says, "sorry, I'm Robbie. I saw you at the Conscious Life Expo. And I've seen you many times on the Discovery Channel."
"I've been a lot of places," Dr Leir growls.
"We've heard that you have a reptilian tissue sample here in the hotel," I say.
"Have you done any tests on it?" Robbie asks.
"I only got it yesterday," Dr Leir says.
"Can we see it?" I ask.
"Sure," he replies.
He takes us to his room. Dr Leir is the surgeon who claims to have extracted from patients 15 implants that are not of earthly metal. In the lift I ask if he has brought any of the implants to the hotel. He looks at me as if I'm an idiot.
"That would be absolutely ludicrous, unscientific and ridiculous," he barks. "I keep them locked away." We reach his bedroom.
"Where's the skin stored?" Robbie asks. There is a silence.
He produces it from his wardrobe. It is a tiny flake at the bottom of a jar. Robbie, Ayda and I crowd around and examine it.
"It could be a scale," I say. "It could be a reptilian scale - which is, of course, the hope - or it could be a little bit of a wing of a moth. Could it be a moth wing?"
"It could be a lot of things," Robbie says, cutting me off. "So, Dr Leir, this was given to you last night. Are you excited about what it may be?"
"In a word," Dr Leir replies, "no."
"Oh," Robbie says.
"It could be a piece of nothing," snaps Dr Leir. "I was recently sent an object that was surgically removed from an abductee. I put it under the electron microscope. It looked like an organic compound, so we went to the next level. We did a test that uses infrared spectroscopy. Long story short, it was a piece of wood."
"Ah," says Robbie, a bit disappointed.
"So I just spent $25,000 to look at a piece of wood," Dr Leir says. "You ask me if I get excited? No."
We fall into a slightly depressed silence.
"Do you worry that the aliens might want their stuff back?" Robbie asks, hopefully. "Do you get scared that they may want to come and get their transmitters back?"
"Well, if they want them back," Dr Leir says, "they certainly have an advanced technology over what we have. They could just take them."
And so ends our day at the conference. Robbie buys 15 UFO DVDs and we catch the plane back to Los Angeles. He puts the pile on the table in his TV room. They have titles such as UFO Space Anomalies: 1999-2006. I ask if he's really going to watch them all. He nods.
"I used to read the Sun, the Mirror, the Mail all the time," he says. "Eventually I had to stop looking because I'd find things that would upset me, whether it would be about me or about somebody else. So I had to fill that void. And that void has been filled with this stuff."
I think it's healthy that he doesn't look himself up in the papers any more. That week alone it had been falsely reported in the News Of The World that he had been dumped by a "Norwegian beauty" called Natassia Scarlet Malthe, and falsely reported in the Daily Star that he had been having secret face-to-face meetings with "mental conspiracy theorist David Icke" (they've never met). But the world he's obsessed with now - the UFO world - has its many liars, too.
"It's surely out of the frying pan and into the fire, liar-wise," I say.
Robbie nods. He says he knows that there is a chance it's all nonsense. "But even if it is all made up," he says, "it's better made-up stuff than what the tabloids are writing. It's more interesting. To me, anyway."
"And it isn't about you."
"Yes," Robbie says.
I leave him standing on his balcony with Ayda, and he does seem happy, gazing up at the sky, even if there's nothing paranormal up there.
"There's always this weird black circle," Ayda says. "You see that black patch over there? It's like dark fog."
"Yeah," Robbie says, "but that might be something as easily explained as light pollution." He pauses. "Right now I'm, 'You crazy American bitch! That's just light pollution!' But if we didn't have company, I'd be going, 'Let's stare at it for an hour and a half. Materialise! Materialise!' We'd be doing our materialise dance. But let's not do that while Jon's here. He'll think I'm weird." They carry on looking at the night sky.
"No," Robbie says, finally, "I don't think there's anything up there tonight."
· A radio documentary of their trip, Robbie Williams And Jon Ronson Journey To The Other Side, will be on Radio 4, May 6, at 6.30pm.
Saturday April 19, 2008The Guardian
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Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Is it still plausible to have Rock and Roll dreams?
So have you heard? The music industry's going to the dogs apparently, is this good news? Depends which way you look at it I guess...
I've always laboured under the premise that a record company was a good thing, an entity that we lowly musos would strive to get our music heard by so that we could attain a hallowed 'record deal' and conquer the world. Now it seems that isn't so important any more.
By all accounts the 'record labels' (perhaps loanshark or megalithic corporate entity is a better term) are a few years behind the rest of the world and are only now trying to catch up. They do this, so I hear, by trying to stop illegal downloads and peer to peer sharing or copyright music (good luck!). Alas and alak, it's too late, people download music and share it alot, it's almost come to be expected these days, so whadda ya do? Sit back and watch??
And where of course does that leave us, the musicians? Whose going to pay for our recording fees, which as most musos know, can be very expensive, especially if you want to do it properly, have it sound REALLY good, and have it played on radio and taken seriously. Now I've heard some say that you can do a decent recording in your bedroom with the right software, equipment and a little knowhow. Bullshit!
I've done recordings this way and what did they get on garageband.com's review system? Nearly everyone commented on the production, a common comment was 'spend some more money on it' or ' take it to a professional studio' blah blah blah. So is a good song still a good song without a thousand bucks spent on it? Apparently not according to alot of people.
So who's going to pay for the expensive recording, the promo (I've quoted 16 grand for it before), the video's (apparently this can be done on a shoestring these days and it's not such a big issue, still...) and of course the touring??? With todays petrol prices that seems even more far fetched then ever.
Hey, maybe I'm being a little too pessimistic, maybe you could just go get a loan from somewhere for all this, all I'm saying is yes there is a new era upon us all, but rock super stardom on a shoestring budget? I remain as yet, unconvinced. Any thoughts??
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
I've always laboured under the premise that a record company was a good thing, an entity that we lowly musos would strive to get our music heard by so that we could attain a hallowed 'record deal' and conquer the world. Now it seems that isn't so important any more.
By all accounts the 'record labels' (perhaps loanshark or megalithic corporate entity is a better term) are a few years behind the rest of the world and are only now trying to catch up. They do this, so I hear, by trying to stop illegal downloads and peer to peer sharing or copyright music (good luck!). Alas and alak, it's too late, people download music and share it alot, it's almost come to be expected these days, so whadda ya do? Sit back and watch??
And where of course does that leave us, the musicians? Whose going to pay for our recording fees, which as most musos know, can be very expensive, especially if you want to do it properly, have it sound REALLY good, and have it played on radio and taken seriously. Now I've heard some say that you can do a decent recording in your bedroom with the right software, equipment and a little knowhow. Bullshit!
I've done recordings this way and what did they get on garageband.com's review system? Nearly everyone commented on the production, a common comment was 'spend some more money on it' or ' take it to a professional studio' blah blah blah. So is a good song still a good song without a thousand bucks spent on it? Apparently not according to alot of people.
So who's going to pay for the expensive recording, the promo (I've quoted 16 grand for it before), the video's (apparently this can be done on a shoestring these days and it's not such a big issue, still...) and of course the touring??? With todays petrol prices that seems even more far fetched then ever.
Hey, maybe I'm being a little too pessimistic, maybe you could just go get a loan from somewhere for all this, all I'm saying is yes there is a new era upon us all, but rock super stardom on a shoestring budget? I remain as yet, unconvinced. Any thoughts??
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Australia as world leader in live export cruelty
A new report, Beyond Cruelty. Beyond Reason. Long Distance Transport and Welfare of Farm Animals (2008), highlights Australia as a world leader in the cruel live export trade of animals for slaughter.The report into the worldwide long distance transport of animals coincides with a campaign by the Handle with Care coalition, an international alliance of animal protection groups calling for governments to end the practice.The Handle with Care coalition will release the report at its campaign launch today – Monday, February 11 – at 9.30am on The South Steyne, Darling Harbour (near the Australian National Maritime Museum).International attention is now on the Rudd Government to act and bring an end to the trade – particularly the export of sheep to the Middle East – and work to expand the current trade in chilled and frozen meat from animals humanely transported and slaughtered in Australia. “The Rudd Government is intent on righting the wrongs on several key issues, and this is now its chance close a dark chapter in our country’s history,” said Handle with Care spokesperson Dr Hugh Wirth. “The live export trade puts to shame Australia’s outstanding record in many other areas of animal welfare, and tarnishes our otherwise good international reputation.” As the world’s largest exporter of sheep for slaughter, Australia is a major player in a trade which inflicts suffering on millions of animals every year. In 2006 alone, more than four million Australian sheep endured gruelling journeys to the Middle East. Almost 37,000 of these animals died on the trip. During the journey from Australia to the Middle East, heat stress and diseases such as scabby mouth, pink eye and salmonellosis are common. For sheep that survive the trip, a much crueller fate awaits them in the hands of countries that have no or unenforced animal welfare laws. Despite Australian industry claims that it is helping improve welfare standards in the Middle East, it is common for sheep to be horrendously handled and slaughtered in ways that would neither be legal nor tolerated within Australia. “The live export industry makes misleading claims about improved transport standards, and handling and slaughter education programs in the Middle East, when in fact their interest is in maximising profits,” Dr Wirth said. “There is no need for this cruel and unnecessary trade, as countries across the Middle East already accept Halal-certified meat from sheep more humanely transported and slaughtered in Australia.”For more information and to take action, go to www.handlewithcare.tv/au
Shihad - 'Beautiful Machine' Album Review
Shihad – Beautiful Machine
Shihad have gotten a bad rap for along time. Okay so they changed their name to ‘Pacifier’ to try and break into the American market, but at least they never tried to sound American like local rockers ‘Wolfmother’, does the phrase ‘Flavour of the week’ resonate with anybody?
And anyway, with a name that sounds a lot like ‘jihad’, a name change was inevitable given the fear induced circumstances of the time. Some would say ‘why try to make it big in America at all’? But once again I point the finger at Wolfmother, didn’t they have the guys from that American show ‘Jackass’ in one of their clips?
Anyway, disillusioned by what they saw in the good old US of A, ‘Pacifier’ changed their name back to ‘Shihad’ and put out a kick ass album, namely ‘Love is the New Hate’. Now, come 2008, it was time for a new album.
First of all let me say, I’ve been to a few Shihad gigs in my time, and I’ve always been amazed by how much they rock! In my opinion there is no one that can hold a torch to John and the boys on a good night, even a bad one. They’re one of the reasons why people want to be rockstars.
Lately Shihad have been sliding in some songs off the new album into their sets, but as you may well know it’s not always easy to pick whether you like ‘the new stuff’ just from one listen at a show. I did however instantly notice at the last gig how catchy ‘One will hear the other’ was, and, unsurprisingly, this became the first single off the new album ‘Beautiful Machine’. This also sets the precedent for the rest of the album, which in opinion is awesome!
Beautiful Machine is rich in both melody, dynamics and tone. Upon first listen, the discerning Shihad fan may be taken aback, for this album does indeed sound like nothing Shihad have ever released. That said, the discerning fan will also know that Shihad change their sound with every album, and this is no exception. Gone are the heavy guitars, the pounding drums and the belting vocals, instead they’ve been replaced with an upbeat catchiness and simplicity not seen on a Shihad album since the self titled Shihad or ‘fish’ album.
Yes everything sounds different but believe me this is not a bad thing. I was quite shocked to hear that there are no jin jins on this album, however, upon further listens I found that the songs had become embedded in my head. Songs like ‘Eliza’, ‘Beautiful Machine’, ‘Chameleon’ and my personal favourite ‘Hard to Please’, are unbelievably catchy, yet complex in their subtlety. There are many layers to these songs, each one densely packed with multiple guitars, keys and electronica, and a lot of vocal harmonies. Even the drums sound different on this album, and that’s a good thing because it suits the music perfectly.
Some fans may be disappointed if they were expecting another ‘Love is the new Hate’ or even ‘Killjoy’, because this album is definitely none of the above. However I think any loyal fan will love it if they just give it a chance and listen to it a few times. It pays off after about the second time through, both in sound and in overall quality, which can be heard in every track.
I would, without a doubt, say that this the best album I have heard in along time and would strongly urge you to spend your $18 on it. I’m a bit of a cheat actually because I bought it from Itunes NZ, it’s not released here until mid June, and I simply couldn’t wait that long.
And for all you hard core fans out there, don’t worry, this isn’t sign of things to come. I think it’s more a sign of maturity on Shihad ‘s part, the songs sound well worn and weathered, yet beautiful and fresh at the same time. And anyway, you know they’ll always play the songs they got famous for and rock the living shit out of anywhere they play, they always do. They make you believe that whatever they’re playing is amazing, and that’s a good thing!
www.shihad.com
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Shihad have gotten a bad rap for along time. Okay so they changed their name to ‘Pacifier’ to try and break into the American market, but at least they never tried to sound American like local rockers ‘Wolfmother’, does the phrase ‘Flavour of the week’ resonate with anybody?
And anyway, with a name that sounds a lot like ‘jihad’, a name change was inevitable given the fear induced circumstances of the time. Some would say ‘why try to make it big in America at all’? But once again I point the finger at Wolfmother, didn’t they have the guys from that American show ‘Jackass’ in one of their clips?
Anyway, disillusioned by what they saw in the good old US of A, ‘Pacifier’ changed their name back to ‘Shihad’ and put out a kick ass album, namely ‘Love is the New Hate’. Now, come 2008, it was time for a new album.
First of all let me say, I’ve been to a few Shihad gigs in my time, and I’ve always been amazed by how much they rock! In my opinion there is no one that can hold a torch to John and the boys on a good night, even a bad one. They’re one of the reasons why people want to be rockstars.
Lately Shihad have been sliding in some songs off the new album into their sets, but as you may well know it’s not always easy to pick whether you like ‘the new stuff’ just from one listen at a show. I did however instantly notice at the last gig how catchy ‘One will hear the other’ was, and, unsurprisingly, this became the first single off the new album ‘Beautiful Machine’. This also sets the precedent for the rest of the album, which in opinion is awesome!
Beautiful Machine is rich in both melody, dynamics and tone. Upon first listen, the discerning Shihad fan may be taken aback, for this album does indeed sound like nothing Shihad have ever released. That said, the discerning fan will also know that Shihad change their sound with every album, and this is no exception. Gone are the heavy guitars, the pounding drums and the belting vocals, instead they’ve been replaced with an upbeat catchiness and simplicity not seen on a Shihad album since the self titled Shihad or ‘fish’ album.
Yes everything sounds different but believe me this is not a bad thing. I was quite shocked to hear that there are no jin jins on this album, however, upon further listens I found that the songs had become embedded in my head. Songs like ‘Eliza’, ‘Beautiful Machine’, ‘Chameleon’ and my personal favourite ‘Hard to Please’, are unbelievably catchy, yet complex in their subtlety. There are many layers to these songs, each one densely packed with multiple guitars, keys and electronica, and a lot of vocal harmonies. Even the drums sound different on this album, and that’s a good thing because it suits the music perfectly.
Some fans may be disappointed if they were expecting another ‘Love is the new Hate’ or even ‘Killjoy’, because this album is definitely none of the above. However I think any loyal fan will love it if they just give it a chance and listen to it a few times. It pays off after about the second time through, both in sound and in overall quality, which can be heard in every track.
I would, without a doubt, say that this the best album I have heard in along time and would strongly urge you to spend your $18 on it. I’m a bit of a cheat actually because I bought it from Itunes NZ, it’s not released here until mid June, and I simply couldn’t wait that long.
And for all you hard core fans out there, don’t worry, this isn’t sign of things to come. I think it’s more a sign of maturity on Shihad ‘s part, the songs sound well worn and weathered, yet beautiful and fresh at the same time. And anyway, you know they’ll always play the songs they got famous for and rock the living shit out of anywhere they play, they always do. They make you believe that whatever they’re playing is amazing, and that’s a good thing!
www.shihad.com
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Better dead than read: Putin affair paper shut
April 21, 2008
The Russian newspaper that reported Russian President Vladimir Putin had left his wife for a 24-year-old former rhythmic gymnast has shut down.
The Moskovsky Korrespondent reported last week that Putin had walked out on his 50-year-old wife, Ludmilla, and was set to wed 24-year-old Alina Kabaeva. As well as being a gymnast, Kabaeva was a model and actress before becoming a Russian MP.
The Korrespondent closed on Friday, raising concerns about press freedom in Russia, said The Moscow Times.
"We proved that Russia is not a democracy," said Igor Dudinsky, first deputy editor of Moskovsky Korrespondent, according to the Times website.
But Artyom Artyomov, the head of National Media Company - which publishes the Korrespondent - denied it had been shut down on political grounds, the Times said.
"There is no question about any political background for the decision to suspend the newspaper's publication," he said. "We will decide on a new direction for the newspaper and a business plan for its development in the near future."
Dudinsky, a veteran journalist and former dissident, responded: "Even a simpleton would understand that it won't re-open in the next 10 years. I think Putin got very angry."
He said he was glad to have published the story.
"We let the genie out of the bottle. I am glad and feel proud."
Putin on Friday denied claims he planned to marry Kabayeva, a current Russian MP, the paper said. "There is not one word of truth in what you have said. I have always reacted negatively to those who, with their snotty noses and erotic fantasies, prowl into others' lives," Putin said.
Oleg Panfilov, Director of the Center for Journalism in Extreme Situations in Moscow, said the case was an example of the Kremlin pressuring the media.
"The authorities want to hector the yellow press here into not writing the kind of things the yellow press usually writes about in the rest of the world," he told the Times.
www.smh.com.au
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
The Russian newspaper that reported Russian President Vladimir Putin had left his wife for a 24-year-old former rhythmic gymnast has shut down.
The Moskovsky Korrespondent reported last week that Putin had walked out on his 50-year-old wife, Ludmilla, and was set to wed 24-year-old Alina Kabaeva. As well as being a gymnast, Kabaeva was a model and actress before becoming a Russian MP.
The Korrespondent closed on Friday, raising concerns about press freedom in Russia, said The Moscow Times.
"We proved that Russia is not a democracy," said Igor Dudinsky, first deputy editor of Moskovsky Korrespondent, according to the Times website.
But Artyom Artyomov, the head of National Media Company - which publishes the Korrespondent - denied it had been shut down on political grounds, the Times said.
"There is no question about any political background for the decision to suspend the newspaper's publication," he said. "We will decide on a new direction for the newspaper and a business plan for its development in the near future."
Dudinsky, a veteran journalist and former dissident, responded: "Even a simpleton would understand that it won't re-open in the next 10 years. I think Putin got very angry."
He said he was glad to have published the story.
"We let the genie out of the bottle. I am glad and feel proud."
Putin on Friday denied claims he planned to marry Kabayeva, a current Russian MP, the paper said. "There is not one word of truth in what you have said. I have always reacted negatively to those who, with their snotty noses and erotic fantasies, prowl into others' lives," Putin said.
Oleg Panfilov, Director of the Center for Journalism in Extreme Situations in Moscow, said the case was an example of the Kremlin pressuring the media.
"The authorities want to hector the yellow press here into not writing the kind of things the yellow press usually writes about in the rest of the world," he told the Times.
www.smh.com.au
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Is Big Brother Watching?
Here is an article I found about the abundent use of security cameras in London at the moment:
George Orwell, Big Brother is watching your house
The Big Brother nightmare of George Orwell's 1984 has become a reality - in the shadow of the author's former London home.
It may have taken a little longer than he predicted, but Orwell's vision of a society where cameras and computers spy on every person's movements is now here.
Scroll down for more
Foresight: The cameras crowd George Orwell's former London home
According to the latest studies, Britain has a staggering 4.2million CCTV cameras - one for every 14 people in the country - and 20 per cent of cameras globally. It has been calculated that each person is caught on camera an average of 300 times daily.
Use of spy cameras in modern-day Britain is now a chilling mirror image of Orwell's fictional world, created in the post-war Forties in a fourth-floor flat overlooking Canonbury Square in Islington, North London.
On the wall outside his former residence - flat number 27B - where Orwell lived until his death in 1950, an historical plaque commemorates the anti-authoritarian author. And within 200 yards of the flat, there are 32 CCTV cameras, scanning every move.
Orwell's view of the tree-filled gardens outside the flat is under 24-hour surveillance from two cameras perched on traffic lights.
The flat's rear windows are constantly viewed from two more security cameras outside a conference centre in Canonbury Place.
In a lane, just off the square, close to Orwell's favourite pub, the Compton Arms, a camera at the rear of a car dealership records every person entering or leaving the pub.
Within a 200-yard radius of the flat, there are another 28 CCTV cameras, together with hundreds of private, remote-controlled security cameras used to scrutinise visitors to homes, shops and offices.
The message is reminiscent of a 1949 poster to mark the launch of Orwell's 1984: 'Big Brother is Watching You'.
In the Shriji grocery store in Canonbury Place, three cameras focus on every person in the shop. Owner Minesh Amin explained: 'They are for our security and safety. Without them, people would steal from the shop. Although this is a nice area, there are always bad people who cause trouble by stealing.'
Three doors away, in the dry-cleaning shop run by Malik Zafar, are another two CCTV cameras.
'I need to know who is coming into my shop,' explained Mr Zafar, who spent £400 on his security system.
This week, the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) produced a report highlighting the astonishing numbers of CCTV cameras in the country and warned how such 'Big Brother tactics' could eventually put lives at risk.
The RAE report warned any security system was 'vulnerable to abuse, including bribery of staff and computer hackers gaining access to it'. One of the report's authors, Professor Nigel Gilbert, claimed the numbers of CCTV cameras now being used is so vast that further installations should be stopped until the need for them is proven.
One fear is a nationwide standard for CCTV cameras which would make it possible for all information gathered by individual cameras to be shared - and accessed by anyone with the means to do so.
The RAE report follows a warning by the Government's Information Commissioner Richard Thomas that excessive use of CCTV and other information-gathering was 'creating a climate of suspicion'.
Interesting isn't it? If Big brother is indeed watching, should we be scared? Are we going to be thrust into an Orwellian Nightmare or do we already live in one?? Do we already live like rats in a cage, self imposed slavery? Is the world going to end in 2012???
I must admit that after reading alot of conspiracy theories, I am abit confused. I mean it seems as though there are a million things happening at the moment, conspiracies and scams conducted by people, governments, agencies, criminals and corporations all over the world right now and it's all abit overwhelming. It's hard enough sometimes focusing on your own daily problems, and then having to focus on who's pulling the wool over your eyes, well...
Not to say that you shouldn't be standing up for your rights, but what exactly can you do? If we are under constant surveillance, what should we do? After seeing how many people were opposed to the war in Iraq, how many protested, and they still went to war, it's a little disheartening to think that your govenment doesn't care about your opinion. Of course you'd be a fool to think anything other than they're all crooks, but sometimes it's easier to just change the channel...
Only joking!!! Fight the Power(s), anarchy in the UK and no more war!!! It all makes for good song material, and I am after all a musician!
www.thisislondon.co.uk
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
www.azumuth.com
George Orwell, Big Brother is watching your house
The Big Brother nightmare of George Orwell's 1984 has become a reality - in the shadow of the author's former London home.
It may have taken a little longer than he predicted, but Orwell's vision of a society where cameras and computers spy on every person's movements is now here.
Scroll down for more
Foresight: The cameras crowd George Orwell's former London home
According to the latest studies, Britain has a staggering 4.2million CCTV cameras - one for every 14 people in the country - and 20 per cent of cameras globally. It has been calculated that each person is caught on camera an average of 300 times daily.
Use of spy cameras in modern-day Britain is now a chilling mirror image of Orwell's fictional world, created in the post-war Forties in a fourth-floor flat overlooking Canonbury Square in Islington, North London.
On the wall outside his former residence - flat number 27B - where Orwell lived until his death in 1950, an historical plaque commemorates the anti-authoritarian author. And within 200 yards of the flat, there are 32 CCTV cameras, scanning every move.
Orwell's view of the tree-filled gardens outside the flat is under 24-hour surveillance from two cameras perched on traffic lights.
The flat's rear windows are constantly viewed from two more security cameras outside a conference centre in Canonbury Place.
In a lane, just off the square, close to Orwell's favourite pub, the Compton Arms, a camera at the rear of a car dealership records every person entering or leaving the pub.
Within a 200-yard radius of the flat, there are another 28 CCTV cameras, together with hundreds of private, remote-controlled security cameras used to scrutinise visitors to homes, shops and offices.
The message is reminiscent of a 1949 poster to mark the launch of Orwell's 1984: 'Big Brother is Watching You'.
In the Shriji grocery store in Canonbury Place, three cameras focus on every person in the shop. Owner Minesh Amin explained: 'They are for our security and safety. Without them, people would steal from the shop. Although this is a nice area, there are always bad people who cause trouble by stealing.'
Three doors away, in the dry-cleaning shop run by Malik Zafar, are another two CCTV cameras.
'I need to know who is coming into my shop,' explained Mr Zafar, who spent £400 on his security system.
This week, the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) produced a report highlighting the astonishing numbers of CCTV cameras in the country and warned how such 'Big Brother tactics' could eventually put lives at risk.
The RAE report warned any security system was 'vulnerable to abuse, including bribery of staff and computer hackers gaining access to it'. One of the report's authors, Professor Nigel Gilbert, claimed the numbers of CCTV cameras now being used is so vast that further installations should be stopped until the need for them is proven.
One fear is a nationwide standard for CCTV cameras which would make it possible for all information gathered by individual cameras to be shared - and accessed by anyone with the means to do so.
The RAE report follows a warning by the Government's Information Commissioner Richard Thomas that excessive use of CCTV and other information-gathering was 'creating a climate of suspicion'.
Interesting isn't it? If Big brother is indeed watching, should we be scared? Are we going to be thrust into an Orwellian Nightmare or do we already live in one?? Do we already live like rats in a cage, self imposed slavery? Is the world going to end in 2012???
I must admit that after reading alot of conspiracy theories, I am abit confused. I mean it seems as though there are a million things happening at the moment, conspiracies and scams conducted by people, governments, agencies, criminals and corporations all over the world right now and it's all abit overwhelming. It's hard enough sometimes focusing on your own daily problems, and then having to focus on who's pulling the wool over your eyes, well...
Not to say that you shouldn't be standing up for your rights, but what exactly can you do? If we are under constant surveillance, what should we do? After seeing how many people were opposed to the war in Iraq, how many protested, and they still went to war, it's a little disheartening to think that your govenment doesn't care about your opinion. Of course you'd be a fool to think anything other than they're all crooks, but sometimes it's easier to just change the channel...
Only joking!!! Fight the Power(s), anarchy in the UK and no more war!!! It all makes for good song material, and I am after all a musician!
www.thisislondon.co.uk
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
www.azumuth.com
Shihad's Beautiful comeback!
by lkatulka on April 22nd, 2008
Aussie rock icons Shihad are back with a brand new album and tour!
Beautiful Machine strikes just the right balance between power and melody. And with master engineer Alan Moulder (Depeche Mode, U2, Smashing Pumpkins) at the helm, you know it’s going to be good.
Beautiful Machine will hit store on May 17, which gives Shihad fans just enough time to learn all the songs before they hit the road.
They’ll tour Adelaide and the East Coast with Triple J Unearthed winners Young and Restless and indie kids Calling All Cars. Tickets go on sale on Monday for the tour this June. See it at the following venues:
13 June 2008 - Bar 388, Brisbane14 June 2008 - Hi Fi Bar & Ballroom, Melbourne20 June 2008 - The Gaelic Theatre, Sydney21 June 2008 - Live on Light Square, Adelaide
http://www.ozmusicscene.com/shihads-beautiful-comeback/
http://www.shihad.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Aussie rock icons Shihad are back with a brand new album and tour!
Beautiful Machine strikes just the right balance between power and melody. And with master engineer Alan Moulder (Depeche Mode, U2, Smashing Pumpkins) at the helm, you know it’s going to be good.
Beautiful Machine will hit store on May 17, which gives Shihad fans just enough time to learn all the songs before they hit the road.
They’ll tour Adelaide and the East Coast with Triple J Unearthed winners Young and Restless and indie kids Calling All Cars. Tickets go on sale on Monday for the tour this June. See it at the following venues:
13 June 2008 - Bar 388, Brisbane14 June 2008 - Hi Fi Bar & Ballroom, Melbourne20 June 2008 - The Gaelic Theatre, Sydney21 June 2008 - Live on Light Square, Adelaide
http://www.ozmusicscene.com/shihads-beautiful-comeback/
http://www.shihad.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Visionary.
Visionary first merged together around 12mths ago after meeting to discover they shared similar ideas and "visions" as to what was needed in order to achieve personal satisfaction in their own musical career and found that working together only strengthened these thoughts. A varied age group also strengthened their ranks , not hindering creativity and seeing eye to eye as musicians was , to them , the ultimate result. Influenced by everything from 70s epic rock to movie soundtracks but mainly European power metal , Visionary like to think they have created something "a little different" for themselves and anyone who may enjoy it with them. They are hoping to emulate what talented local metal bands like Black Majesty....Vanishing Point and Eyefear have achieved.... gathering a strong following...recording.....touring but more importantly providing Melbourne with such a glorious reason to be proud of our undying melodic metal scene as all eyes of the world seem to be looking this way as we speak. Having secured the services of an incredible vocalist and creative lead guitarist we are now ready to assemble/record our first album as well as putting together our live act......see you on the road......Robb
www.myspace.com/hopearising
www.myspace.com/hopearising
Refocus on whales, not whaling
As Japanese whalers continue their cruel and bloody hunt in the Southern Ocean, WSPA is calling on our supporters to add their name to a global petition which asks the International Whaling Commission (IWC) to shift its attention to whales - not whaling.
The IWC, which manages whale populations worldwide, could then devote its time to protecting whales and encouraging whale watching rather than focusing on allocating kill quotas to whaling nations.
Thousands of whales will be slaughtered this year alone, and many will endure slow and painful deaths. So please, make your voice heard for whales today.
You can find out more about the cruelty of whaling and sign the petition here.
http://www.wspa.org.au
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
The IWC, which manages whale populations worldwide, could then devote its time to protecting whales and encouraging whale watching rather than focusing on allocating kill quotas to whaling nations.
Thousands of whales will be slaughtered this year alone, and many will endure slow and painful deaths. So please, make your voice heard for whales today.
You can find out more about the cruelty of whaling and sign the petition here.
http://www.wspa.org.au
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Amy Racecar.
Amy Racecar have been making friends and music with the New Zealand public since early 2002. Picking up, dropping and firing many members through various line-ups over the years, Amy Racecar are now down to a core trio of fellas that outplayed and outlasted all the rest. Comprised of young go-getters, Karl Smith – Bass, Ben Thomson – Drums, Matthew Emery – Voice and Keys, Amy Racecar have now refined their sound from their heady days of chewing through 52 genres in 52 seconds into a new exciting positive form of inspirational song. With the release of their debut album ‘Conclusions’ in early 2007 Amy Racecar promptly moved over the ditch to lovely Melbourne in Australia and are having a swell time making love and performing music in that great big water forsaken country.
'Acerbic modern rock seen on current stages as well as unparalleled oddities.' - Real Groove Magazine
'The peculiar beast that is Amy Racecar is sure to root the listener to the spot, whether it is from the ecstasy of musical carnage or horror at the toppling of pop idols.' - Rip It Up Magazine
'Perfect music for that slumber party with 50 year old men having pillow fights!' - muzic.net.nz
'...sounds like putting Head Like a Hole and The Brunettes in a blender and coming up with a completely new band that sometimes flirts with the current rock fascination for new wave and sometimes sounds like a cocktail of hallucinogens via the pop medium.' - Adrian Osman - Real Groove Magazine
www.amyracecar.com
www.myspace.com/theamyracecars
www.azumuth.com
'Acerbic modern rock seen on current stages as well as unparalleled oddities.' - Real Groove Magazine
'The peculiar beast that is Amy Racecar is sure to root the listener to the spot, whether it is from the ecstasy of musical carnage or horror at the toppling of pop idols.' - Rip It Up Magazine
'Perfect music for that slumber party with 50 year old men having pillow fights!' - muzic.net.nz
'...sounds like putting Head Like a Hole and The Brunettes in a blender and coming up with a completely new band that sometimes flirts with the current rock fascination for new wave and sometimes sounds like a cocktail of hallucinogens via the pop medium.' - Adrian Osman - Real Groove Magazine
www.amyracecar.com
www.myspace.com/theamyracecars
www.azumuth.com
Jessie Ventura questions the Official 9/11 story on Fox news.
"How can two planes knock down three buildings? Jet fuel is four-fifths kerosene, it doesn't burn hot. How can three buildings fall at the rate of gravity and turn into powder? I'm just simply questioning the fact that it doesn't add up to me. I have a hard problem accepting the fact that never before in history has a steel structure building fallen at the rate of gravity. Why would the main core beams not bend? And why is it when you ask any question about 9/11 you are immediately attacked?"
— Former Governor Jesse Ventura, speaking on Hannity & Colmes, 4/08/08
The former pro wrestler hasn't reined in the outrageous opinions that often got him in trouble when he was governor from 1999 to 2003. He discusses at length the assassination of President Kennedy. He scorns the idea that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, and claims that during a trip to Dallas as governor a police officer warned him to avoid talking too much about "things that certain people don't want brought to light.
Ventura
He also discusses what he sees as the folly of organized religion. He argues that Catholic Church leaders should face racketeering charges for covering up sexual abuse by priests, then writes: "If Jesus came back today, I think he'd throw up."
also airs his suspicion that "somebody in the government" sent people to infiltrate a government course he taught at Harvard University in 2004, on a day he discussed Kennedy's assassination. He repeatedly shows a fascination with conspiracy theories and surveillance, recalling several encounters he had with CIA agents while governor and claiming that his wife found an electronic listening device at their private home during his term.
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
— Former Governor Jesse Ventura, speaking on Hannity & Colmes, 4/08/08
The former pro wrestler hasn't reined in the outrageous opinions that often got him in trouble when he was governor from 1999 to 2003. He discusses at length the assassination of President Kennedy. He scorns the idea that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, and claims that during a trip to Dallas as governor a police officer warned him to avoid talking too much about "things that certain people don't want brought to light.
Ventura
He also discusses what he sees as the folly of organized religion. He argues that Catholic Church leaders should face racketeering charges for covering up sexual abuse by priests, then writes: "If Jesus came back today, I think he'd throw up."
also airs his suspicion that "somebody in the government" sent people to infiltrate a government course he taught at Harvard University in 2004, on a day he discussed Kennedy's assassination. He repeatedly shows a fascination with conspiracy theories and surveillance, recalling several encounters he had with CIA agents while governor and claiming that his wife found an electronic listening device at their private home during his term.
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Halo - Machinehead
Halo
[Music: Flynn / McClain / Duce / Demmel, Lyrics: Flynn]
This is a call to arms,Will you stand beside me?
This is our time to fightNo more compromising
And this blackened heart will singFor sad solidarity
Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
This is a right to life,
Not the Religious Right’s act
This is abortion’s knife,
Aiming at the wombs of
The Christian conspiracy
See open thine eyes and see,
the Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
Our time will come,
our time will come
Our time is now,
our time is now
And I won’t pray for you
Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
The words will never hold us down
Prayers won’t be spared on you
Satisfaction denied
‘Til you’re dead and gone
GoneDead and gone!
You’re gone!
www.machinehead1.com
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
[Music: Flynn / McClain / Duce / Demmel, Lyrics: Flynn]
This is a call to arms,Will you stand beside me?
This is our time to fightNo more compromising
And this blackened heart will singFor sad solidarity
Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
This is a right to life,
Not the Religious Right’s act
This is abortion’s knife,
Aiming at the wombs of
The Christian conspiracy
See open thine eyes and see,
the Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
Our time will come,
our time will come
Our time is now,
our time is now
And I won’t pray for you
Halo over our demise
Following a god so blind
Sallow in their sickening
Swallow not, the shit they feed
The words will never hold us down
Prayers won’t be spared on you
Satisfaction denied
‘Til you’re dead and gone
GoneDead and gone!
You’re gone!
www.machinehead1.com
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Seperated at Birth.
The pope began his visit [to the United States] by addressing an issue that has wounded the Catholic Church in the United States, telling reporters on his aircraft that the sexual abuse of children has caused “great suffering” for the church and “me personally.” The scandal has produced thousands of sexual abuse victims and about 5,000 accused priests since it erupted in 2002 and has cost the church more than $2 billion in settlements.
“It is a great suffering for the church in the United States and for the church in general and for me personally that this could happen,” he said. “As I read the histories of those victims, it is difficult for me to understand how it was possible that priests betrayed in this way. Their mission was to give healing, to give the love of God to these children. We are deeply ashamed and we will do what is possible that this cannot happen in the future.”
Separated at birth?
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
“It is a great suffering for the church in the United States and for the church in general and for me personally that this could happen,” he said. “As I read the histories of those victims, it is difficult for me to understand how it was possible that priests betrayed in this way. Their mission was to give healing, to give the love of God to these children. We are deeply ashamed and we will do what is possible that this cannot happen in the future.”
Separated at birth?
www.azumuth.com
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Bear Baiting is Wrong!
Help end the cruel 'sport' of bear baiting
A terrified and traumatised bear is dragged into a ring by a rope that has been crudely forced through her highly sensitive muzzle with a needle. Filled with fear, she knows what is about to happen to her but, tied to a post in the ground, all she can do is struggle and cry out in pain.
Suddenly a pair of dogs are set upon her, attacking her face and snout. Desperate to stop the pain she opens her mouth to bite and swipes at the dogs with her paws, all in vain.
Her teeth have been removed and her claws blunted - so her attempts to defend herself are useless. Again and again the dogs lunge at her throat and nose, opening fresh wounds until her strength and energy are all taken from the relentless onslaught.
Just as it looks like the fight will become fatal, it is stopped. Yet this is only to give the exhausted bear just enough time to recover before she’s taken back into the ring to face the dogs again. Unbelievably some bears are forced into this cruel contest up to 13 times a day.
In-between fights, life doesn’t get any better for an animal that is solitary by nature and would roam up to 20km a day in the wild. She’s tied to a post by a short rope and left, in her thick fur, in the scorching sun. Most bears used in these terrible contests exist on a painfully inadequate diet and insufficient water to drink. This means their injured, overheated bodies and open, infected wounds are never likely to heal.
The dogs too are often injured in the fights as the desperate bears struggle to defend themselves. It’s a fight that no animal can win.
Your support is helping make real progress to end cruelty to animals like the bears trapped in this horrendous ’sport’. Together with our local partner Wildlife Society of Pakistan we have identified and put a stop to more bear baiting events than ever before. Our most recent figures show that more than 150 events have been identified with 75% of the events being stopped. Yet many fights still take place and even one fight a year would be one fight too many for these noble and majestic bears. We cannot give up until this cruel practice ends.
We need to put a stop to end the injury and torment of bears used in these brutal events which sadly continue.
We hope you can help us do this with an urgent donation today so we can continue, and extend, our work to:
Locate and confiscate the bears used at these horrific events. We need the resources and capacity to track down illegal bear baiting events and rescue the bears. Your support can help us work alongside the authorities and provide them with the information they need to shut down the ghastly events.
Help the sanctuary provide the highest level of care for rescued bears. Before they can begin to enjoy the safety of their new home at the Kund Park Bear Sanctuary, the bears need specialist veterinary care and treatment. The sanctuary will provide the rescued bears with the natural diet and habitat in which to recover and live naturally, as they deserve.
Use education and awareness to stop the demand for this barbaric form of entertainment. Within local communities we can work to change attitudes and make people aware that bears are sentient beings that experience fear and pain. As these events become unacceptable, the demand for bears to be forced into fighting will decrease and the cycle of cruelty will be broken.
We must act quickly because these bears should not have to endure another day of abuse and terror. To free bears locked in the cruelty of bear baiting and help end the cruelty of animals all around the world, please make an urgent donation today. Thank you.
To support our work online, click here. For phone donations please call WSPA Australia on 1300 13 9772 or WSPA New Zealand on 0800 500 9772.
www.azumuth.com
A terrified and traumatised bear is dragged into a ring by a rope that has been crudely forced through her highly sensitive muzzle with a needle. Filled with fear, she knows what is about to happen to her but, tied to a post in the ground, all she can do is struggle and cry out in pain.
Suddenly a pair of dogs are set upon her, attacking her face and snout. Desperate to stop the pain she opens her mouth to bite and swipes at the dogs with her paws, all in vain.
Her teeth have been removed and her claws blunted - so her attempts to defend herself are useless. Again and again the dogs lunge at her throat and nose, opening fresh wounds until her strength and energy are all taken from the relentless onslaught.
Just as it looks like the fight will become fatal, it is stopped. Yet this is only to give the exhausted bear just enough time to recover before she’s taken back into the ring to face the dogs again. Unbelievably some bears are forced into this cruel contest up to 13 times a day.
In-between fights, life doesn’t get any better for an animal that is solitary by nature and would roam up to 20km a day in the wild. She’s tied to a post by a short rope and left, in her thick fur, in the scorching sun. Most bears used in these terrible contests exist on a painfully inadequate diet and insufficient water to drink. This means their injured, overheated bodies and open, infected wounds are never likely to heal.
The dogs too are often injured in the fights as the desperate bears struggle to defend themselves. It’s a fight that no animal can win.
Your support is helping make real progress to end cruelty to animals like the bears trapped in this horrendous ’sport’. Together with our local partner Wildlife Society of Pakistan we have identified and put a stop to more bear baiting events than ever before. Our most recent figures show that more than 150 events have been identified with 75% of the events being stopped. Yet many fights still take place and even one fight a year would be one fight too many for these noble and majestic bears. We cannot give up until this cruel practice ends.
We need to put a stop to end the injury and torment of bears used in these brutal events which sadly continue.
We hope you can help us do this with an urgent donation today so we can continue, and extend, our work to:
Locate and confiscate the bears used at these horrific events. We need the resources and capacity to track down illegal bear baiting events and rescue the bears. Your support can help us work alongside the authorities and provide them with the information they need to shut down the ghastly events.
Help the sanctuary provide the highest level of care for rescued bears. Before they can begin to enjoy the safety of their new home at the Kund Park Bear Sanctuary, the bears need specialist veterinary care and treatment. The sanctuary will provide the rescued bears with the natural diet and habitat in which to recover and live naturally, as they deserve.
Use education and awareness to stop the demand for this barbaric form of entertainment. Within local communities we can work to change attitudes and make people aware that bears are sentient beings that experience fear and pain. As these events become unacceptable, the demand for bears to be forced into fighting will decrease and the cycle of cruelty will be broken.
We must act quickly because these bears should not have to endure another day of abuse and terror. To free bears locked in the cruelty of bear baiting and help end the cruelty of animals all around the world, please make an urgent donation today. Thank you.
To support our work online, click here. For phone donations please call WSPA Australia on 1300 13 9772 or WSPA New Zealand on 0800 500 9772.
www.azumuth.com
Are we Sheep?
The story of a dog being starved to death as part of an art exhibition appears to have been falsely reported by Costa Rican newspaper The Nation, according to new sources. I reported the appalling story here last week among global outrage about the exhibit and a reported invitation to repeat the work elsewhere.
It has now emerged, however, that artist Guillermo Habacuc Vargas intended the work to be a stunt to show how a starving dog suddenly becomes the centre of attention when it is in a gallery, but not when it is on the street. The work was intended to expose people for what they really are - "hyprocritical sheep". He said that in order for the work to be valid, he and the gallery had to give the impression that the dog was genuinely starving to death and that it died.
Juanita Bermúdez, director of the Codex Gallery, stated that he would not have allowed the dog to be mistreated, that it ate and drank regularly, and that it was allowed to escape back to the streets from where it was taken at the end of the exhibit. "It is conceptual art and a work that leaves a social message", he said.
The stunt provoked massive outrage on a global scale, and over a million people have signed an online petition to try and prevent another dog being starved to death in a repeat of the exhibit. Unconfirmed reports say that the artist even received death threats and, judging by the vehement anger I've seen in response to this story, that would not suprise me.
The strange thing is perhaps how you react knowing now that this was a hoax. I suspect, like me, you still feel angry, perhaps that it's sick, and that your initial reaction was totally justified. But though I may not agree with his shocking methods whatsoever, I have to admire Guillermo Habacuc Vargas' ability to inspire such a reaction and, in that sense, didn't he achieve what he set out to do? Whether it qualifies as 'art', conceptual or not, is a totally different matter...
It has now emerged, however, that artist Guillermo Habacuc Vargas intended the work to be a stunt to show how a starving dog suddenly becomes the centre of attention when it is in a gallery, but not when it is on the street. The work was intended to expose people for what they really are - "hyprocritical sheep". He said that in order for the work to be valid, he and the gallery had to give the impression that the dog was genuinely starving to death and that it died.
Juanita Bermúdez, director of the Codex Gallery, stated that he would not have allowed the dog to be mistreated, that it ate and drank regularly, and that it was allowed to escape back to the streets from where it was taken at the end of the exhibit. "It is conceptual art and a work that leaves a social message", he said.
The stunt provoked massive outrage on a global scale, and over a million people have signed an online petition to try and prevent another dog being starved to death in a repeat of the exhibit. Unconfirmed reports say that the artist even received death threats and, judging by the vehement anger I've seen in response to this story, that would not suprise me.
The strange thing is perhaps how you react knowing now that this was a hoax. I suspect, like me, you still feel angry, perhaps that it's sick, and that your initial reaction was totally justified. But though I may not agree with his shocking methods whatsoever, I have to admire Guillermo Habacuc Vargas' ability to inspire such a reaction and, in that sense, didn't he achieve what he set out to do? Whether it qualifies as 'art', conceptual or not, is a totally different matter...
Starving Dog is Art.
In 2007, Guillermo Vargas Habacuc, a so called artist, took an abandoned dog from the streets, tied him to a very short rope to a wall in an art gallery, and left a kettle of food on the other side of the room, beyond his reach, and left him there to slowly die of hunger and thirst.
The so-called artist of such cruelty and the visitors of the gallery of art watched the agony of this animal. The dog finally died of famine, surely after a painful, absurd and incomprehensible torture.
The prestigious Centralamerican Biennial of Art decided that this horrible act committed by this guy was art, and Guillermo Vargas Habacuc has been invited to repeat his cruel actions in said Biennial in 2008.
The so-called artist of such cruelty and the visitors of the gallery of art watched the agony of this animal. The dog finally died of famine, surely after a painful, absurd and incomprehensible torture.
The prestigious Centralamerican Biennial of Art decided that this horrible act committed by this guy was art, and Guillermo Vargas Habacuc has been invited to repeat his cruel actions in said Biennial in 2008.
Vanishing Point.
In an era where trends and gimmicks rule - Vanishing Point stand-alone in creating music with heart and soul. Forward thinking and progressive, Vanishing Point’s inherent uniqueness permeates through every aspect of the creative process – providing a rich and enthralling listening experience.
With the recent release their fourth album The Fourth Season, Vanishing Point has delivered what many hoped, a masterpiece of musical excellence that has no peers.
“Australia is not only about AC/DC anymore.” (AOR Dream Zones)
With four critically acclaimed releases and accolades too numerous to mention and a career spanning more than a decade, Vanishing Point is a musical phenomenon – exuding equal doses of confidence, creativity and vision. This attitude saw Vanishing Point be the first unsigned act to ever play the main stages of the celebrated Wacken Open Air Festival in 2000. They followed this up with a triumphant tour through Europe in 2001 with Gamma Ray and Sonata Arctica.
Recent shows across Australia and New Zealand as direct support to DragonForce has seen the band take their music to new levels of expression. No other band in the country can match the professionalism, showman ship or levels of entertainment generated in a Vanishing Point live show. Seeing them once is not enough, reliving the experience is essential.
“Fine solos and really beautiful melodies, they were certainly a terrific addition to the program.” (Metal Hammer, Germany)
“There (are) a million bands out there dreaming to play music (like this). Vanishing Point are playing this way (now).” (Rockpages.gr)
Consisting of five like-minded, yet distinct individuals, the members of Vanishing Point are among the elite who push boundaries, erase labels and dismantle the preconceptions of what an International Heavy Metal band should be. A feat more often reserved for veteran acts, Vanishing Point were honoured by Sonata Arctica who has recorded the song “Two Minds One Soul” from Tangled in Dream. This example serves as a reminder of the respect levelled at the band and a testament to their skills as modern day composers.
“The sound gives every ounce of credit to International claims that Vanishing Point could well be the revelation from Downunder (Spin Magazine)
“Vanishing Point, remember this name because you will be hearing a lot more from them in the future.” (Insidemetal.net) Emerging through to the top ranks in cooperation with Riot!/Dockyard 1, Vanishing Point has now released their latest opus to critical acclaim and are poised for further success. Armed with a devoted worldwide fan base and their most accomplished release to date, Vanishing Point has with- The Fourth Season, established a new benchmark for the music industry.
With the recent release their fourth album The Fourth Season, Vanishing Point has delivered what many hoped, a masterpiece of musical excellence that has no peers.
“Australia is not only about AC/DC anymore.” (AOR Dream Zones)
With four critically acclaimed releases and accolades too numerous to mention and a career spanning more than a decade, Vanishing Point is a musical phenomenon – exuding equal doses of confidence, creativity and vision. This attitude saw Vanishing Point be the first unsigned act to ever play the main stages of the celebrated Wacken Open Air Festival in 2000. They followed this up with a triumphant tour through Europe in 2001 with Gamma Ray and Sonata Arctica.
Recent shows across Australia and New Zealand as direct support to DragonForce has seen the band take their music to new levels of expression. No other band in the country can match the professionalism, showman ship or levels of entertainment generated in a Vanishing Point live show. Seeing them once is not enough, reliving the experience is essential.
“Fine solos and really beautiful melodies, they were certainly a terrific addition to the program.” (Metal Hammer, Germany)
“There (are) a million bands out there dreaming to play music (like this). Vanishing Point are playing this way (now).” (Rockpages.gr)
Consisting of five like-minded, yet distinct individuals, the members of Vanishing Point are among the elite who push boundaries, erase labels and dismantle the preconceptions of what an International Heavy Metal band should be. A feat more often reserved for veteran acts, Vanishing Point were honoured by Sonata Arctica who has recorded the song “Two Minds One Soul” from Tangled in Dream. This example serves as a reminder of the respect levelled at the band and a testament to their skills as modern day composers.
“The sound gives every ounce of credit to International claims that Vanishing Point could well be the revelation from Downunder (Spin Magazine)
“Vanishing Point, remember this name because you will be hearing a lot more from them in the future.” (Insidemetal.net) Emerging through to the top ranks in cooperation with Riot!/Dockyard 1, Vanishing Point has now released their latest opus to critical acclaim and are poised for further success. Armed with a devoted worldwide fan base and their most accomplished release to date, Vanishing Point has with- The Fourth Season, established a new benchmark for the music industry.
Divine Ascension.
With a desire to cross boundaries and genres Divine Ascension was born.
Formed in April, 2007 Divine Ascension share a vision that seeks to combine jaw dropping musicianship, personal lyrics and a dynamic female vocalist not yet heard in the genre until now. With songs that explore the inner battles we all face at different stages in our lives, Divine Ascension search for the answers to the questions we all ask.
This can be clearly heard on the three track promotional recording Divine Ascension have completed. Each track is delivered with equal amounts of emotion and power, so much so that one can’t help but be swept away with the music. From the intricate foundation laid down by both bass and drums to the expressive keyboard embellishments and captivating guitar work to Jennifer’s emotionally charged vocals – Divine Ascension show that they have the class and talent to deliver.
One could label Divine Ascension melodic metal, but the unit draws influences from old school metal, power metal and progressive metal allowing Divine Ascension to find their own niche. This is clearly evident when Jennifer belts out the lyrics in such a unique fashion. With a background in cabaret, Jennifer’s delivery is brimming with character, diversity and style – taking the music into new other worldly realms.
Those who have been fortunate to witness the band in the live arena will testify to the sheer talent on display and it’s a place where the band clearly shines. It has been years since a group has been able to so visibly captivate an audience from the get go and hold their attention for the duration. Songs take on a whole new dimension to create a feeling that is truly divine.
Divine Ascension has recently received airplay and unanimous support from Musically Incorrect (3RRR FM) - Melbourne’s leading metal show. This has provided them with the respect they deserve in the Australian metal industry and this first step will allow them to win over new fans - as well as obtain the support they need to take their music to the far reaches of the world.
Divine Ascension is excited about bringing their music to the fore, both through their future albums and on stage. We look forward to you taking a part in this journey and joining us.
Formed in April, 2007 Divine Ascension share a vision that seeks to combine jaw dropping musicianship, personal lyrics and a dynamic female vocalist not yet heard in the genre until now. With songs that explore the inner battles we all face at different stages in our lives, Divine Ascension search for the answers to the questions we all ask.
This can be clearly heard on the three track promotional recording Divine Ascension have completed. Each track is delivered with equal amounts of emotion and power, so much so that one can’t help but be swept away with the music. From the intricate foundation laid down by both bass and drums to the expressive keyboard embellishments and captivating guitar work to Jennifer’s emotionally charged vocals – Divine Ascension show that they have the class and talent to deliver.
One could label Divine Ascension melodic metal, but the unit draws influences from old school metal, power metal and progressive metal allowing Divine Ascension to find their own niche. This is clearly evident when Jennifer belts out the lyrics in such a unique fashion. With a background in cabaret, Jennifer’s delivery is brimming with character, diversity and style – taking the music into new other worldly realms.
Those who have been fortunate to witness the band in the live arena will testify to the sheer talent on display and it’s a place where the band clearly shines. It has been years since a group has been able to so visibly captivate an audience from the get go and hold their attention for the duration. Songs take on a whole new dimension to create a feeling that is truly divine.
Divine Ascension has recently received airplay and unanimous support from Musically Incorrect (3RRR FM) - Melbourne’s leading metal show. This has provided them with the respect they deserve in the Australian metal industry and this first step will allow them to win over new fans - as well as obtain the support they need to take their music to the far reaches of the world.
Divine Ascension is excited about bringing their music to the fore, both through their future albums and on stage. We look forward to you taking a part in this journey and joining us.
One Day!
THE internet could soon be made obsolete. The scientists who pioneered it have now built a lightning-fast replacement capable of downloading entire feature films within seconds.
At speeds about 10,000 times faster than a typical broadband connection, “the grid” will be able to send the entire Rolling Stones back catalogue from Britain to Japan in less than two seconds.
The latest spin-off from Cern, the particle physics centre that created the web, the grid could also provide the kind of power needed to transmit holographic images; allow instant online gaming with hundreds of thousands of players; and offer high-definition video telephony for the price of a local call.
David Britton, professor of physics at Glasgow University and a leading figure in the grid project, believes grid technologies could “revolutionise” society. “With this kind of computing power, future generations will have the ability to collaborate and communicate in ways older people like me cannot even imagine,” he said.
At speeds about 10,000 times faster than a typical broadband connection, “the grid” will be able to send the entire Rolling Stones back catalogue from Britain to Japan in less than two seconds.
The latest spin-off from Cern, the particle physics centre that created the web, the grid could also provide the kind of power needed to transmit holographic images; allow instant online gaming with hundreds of thousands of players; and offer high-definition video telephony for the price of a local call.
David Britton, professor of physics at Glasgow University and a leading figure in the grid project, believes grid technologies could “revolutionise” society. “With this kind of computing power, future generations will have the ability to collaborate and communicate in ways older people like me cannot even imagine,” he said.
Supercharger!
Supercharger!
Formerly known as Drowning Girl, SUPERCHARGER deliver a brand of Heavy Rock that stands on its own. Formed in 2001, SUPERCHARGER stormed onto the local scene with their debut EP titled "Vision For the Blind", which showcased the ultimate combination of Power and Melody. Produced by the master of Aussie metal, Endel Rivers, the album was well received by both rock and metal fans alike. Such was the interest in the band's debut EP that the single "Don't Wanna Hear It" reached the No.1 spot on the Australian MP3 Heavy Rock charts.
Following "Vision for the Blind", the band made their way around Victoria with various radio and TV appearances. With regular appearances on Channel 31 and two fantastic promotional clips for "Fade" and "Don't Wanna Hear It", SUPERCHARGER invaded television sets across Victoria for several months in early 2004.
In late 2005, a new era of Hard Rock/Metal was born...Exit Drowning Girl, Enter SUPERCHARGER. The new name signalled a new beginning for Melbourne’s most exciting Hard Rock/Metal act as founding members Gary Trovato and Frank Vadala welcomed two new members to the fold; Matt Pocock (lead guitar) and John Boland (bass).
The name "SUPERCHARGER" stands as a true representation of what these four hard-rockers are all about: HIGH VOLTAGE and IN YOUR FACE Hard Rock that stands in a league of its own.
To celebrate the next chapter, SUPERCHARGER are proud to announce the release of the debut album, "Reckoning Day". Featuring the new single "Jaded", and classic tracks from the Drowning Girl era such as "Fade", "Dont Wanna Hear It", and "Make It Back" (which soared to the no.1 spot on the Australian MP3 charts), SUPERCHARGER are set to deliver the most exciting new Rock/Metal album in years. Also included on the album is the bone-crunching anthem "Drowning Girl", which sent spine-tingling shockwaves throughout the local scene and bulleted to the no.6 position on the Australian MP3 charts.
So brace yourself for the most INSANE, MIND-BLOWING Hard Rock Experience.
Prepare for "Reckoning Day" and enter the world of SUPERCHARGER today!
Reckoning Day available March 9 at all good music stores.
www.supercharger.com.au
Formerly known as Drowning Girl, SUPERCHARGER deliver a brand of Heavy Rock that stands on its own. Formed in 2001, SUPERCHARGER stormed onto the local scene with their debut EP titled "Vision For the Blind", which showcased the ultimate combination of Power and Melody. Produced by the master of Aussie metal, Endel Rivers, the album was well received by both rock and metal fans alike. Such was the interest in the band's debut EP that the single "Don't Wanna Hear It" reached the No.1 spot on the Australian MP3 Heavy Rock charts.
Following "Vision for the Blind", the band made their way around Victoria with various radio and TV appearances. With regular appearances on Channel 31 and two fantastic promotional clips for "Fade" and "Don't Wanna Hear It", SUPERCHARGER invaded television sets across Victoria for several months in early 2004.
In late 2005, a new era of Hard Rock/Metal was born...Exit Drowning Girl, Enter SUPERCHARGER. The new name signalled a new beginning for Melbourne’s most exciting Hard Rock/Metal act as founding members Gary Trovato and Frank Vadala welcomed two new members to the fold; Matt Pocock (lead guitar) and John Boland (bass).
The name "SUPERCHARGER" stands as a true representation of what these four hard-rockers are all about: HIGH VOLTAGE and IN YOUR FACE Hard Rock that stands in a league of its own.
To celebrate the next chapter, SUPERCHARGER are proud to announce the release of the debut album, "Reckoning Day". Featuring the new single "Jaded", and classic tracks from the Drowning Girl era such as "Fade", "Dont Wanna Hear It", and "Make It Back" (which soared to the no.1 spot on the Australian MP3 charts), SUPERCHARGER are set to deliver the most exciting new Rock/Metal album in years. Also included on the album is the bone-crunching anthem "Drowning Girl", which sent spine-tingling shockwaves throughout the local scene and bulleted to the no.6 position on the Australian MP3 charts.
So brace yourself for the most INSANE, MIND-BLOWING Hard Rock Experience.
Prepare for "Reckoning Day" and enter the world of SUPERCHARGER today!
Reckoning Day available March 9 at all good music stores.
www.supercharger.com.au
Stop Live Animal Skinning!
Stop Live Animal Skinning! This is a call for signatures to a petition to help stop the LIVE skinning of cats & dogs. Yes that’s right, LIVE... Imagine someone going up to your dog or cat and skinning it live. This is happening today in 2008 in China and it is DISGUSTING.
1) Head to http://animalsaviors.org2) Watch the video to see it for yourself (see warning)3) Sign the petition
Will our Petition make a difference? Absolutely!
Here's why:
China has emerged as one of the world's most powerful economies but is still mistrusted and feared (as distinct from respected) because since emerging from behind the bamboo curtain, it's government has done little to dispel its autocratic image and apparent disregard for human rights. Quite apart from human rights, decent people everywhere could never accept a society so depraved and bereft of common decency as to accept the skinning of live animals as acceptable behaviour.
It's burgeoning economy has resulted from flooding the world with cheap consumer products produced by a cheap unregulated work force. A fact that is understandable, having regard to its enormous population and fantastic work ethic.
In turn, China has developed an insatiable appetite for raw product from other countries and governments keen to export to China are reluctant to criticise or offend the Chinese government.
Given this background, will your government impose economic sanctions against China or openly criticise the Chinese government or demand that it puts a stop to the Chinese cat and dog fur trade? Most unlikely. However, there will surely be individuals within governments, so incensed and horrified by the trade that they will support Our Cause.
The Chinese government is well aware of the economic power play behind the scenes. It also knows it has a long way to go earn acceptance from the free world.
And make no mistake, China absolutely craves acceptance as a world leader that is trusted and respected and there are emerging signs that it is prepared to adopt more acceptable and responsible policies to earn that acceptance.
It knows that if it behaves or permits behaviour that is abhorrent to people of the democratic world, it will not earn the trust or respect it craves. Its our duty to show China that it can take a single , but highly significant step towards overcoming the prejudice of the millions of free-thinking decent people, if it recognises animal rights and, in particular, abolishes the abhorrent trade in cat and dog fur.
Cat and dog pelts sell for about US$1 each and every year, 2,000,000 cats and dogs suffer a horrific death, skinned alive for the pelts.
For what?
1. An insignificant contribution towards the Chinese economy - a few million US$; and
2. A clear message to the world that so long as the Chinese government permits the trade, China is not fit to take its place as a leading nation and certainly not one that is entitled to any trust or respect.
The "adverse fallout" and abhorrence for the Chinese government resulting from the trade will far exceeds the paltry contribution it makes towards China's economy. It is in China's interest, to abolish the trade.
It's our duty to tell the world about the trade and kick up such a stink that our message reverberates around the world.
Remember Tianamen Square. Let's make this another Tianamen Square – this time, for the animals.
Please sign the Online Petition. It's the First Step in Our Fight!"
1) Head to http://animalsaviors.org2) Watch the video to see it for yourself (see warning)3) Sign the petition
Will our Petition make a difference? Absolutely!
Here's why:
China has emerged as one of the world's most powerful economies but is still mistrusted and feared (as distinct from respected) because since emerging from behind the bamboo curtain, it's government has done little to dispel its autocratic image and apparent disregard for human rights. Quite apart from human rights, decent people everywhere could never accept a society so depraved and bereft of common decency as to accept the skinning of live animals as acceptable behaviour.
It's burgeoning economy has resulted from flooding the world with cheap consumer products produced by a cheap unregulated work force. A fact that is understandable, having regard to its enormous population and fantastic work ethic.
In turn, China has developed an insatiable appetite for raw product from other countries and governments keen to export to China are reluctant to criticise or offend the Chinese government.
Given this background, will your government impose economic sanctions against China or openly criticise the Chinese government or demand that it puts a stop to the Chinese cat and dog fur trade? Most unlikely. However, there will surely be individuals within governments, so incensed and horrified by the trade that they will support Our Cause.
The Chinese government is well aware of the economic power play behind the scenes. It also knows it has a long way to go earn acceptance from the free world.
And make no mistake, China absolutely craves acceptance as a world leader that is trusted and respected and there are emerging signs that it is prepared to adopt more acceptable and responsible policies to earn that acceptance.
It knows that if it behaves or permits behaviour that is abhorrent to people of the democratic world, it will not earn the trust or respect it craves. Its our duty to show China that it can take a single , but highly significant step towards overcoming the prejudice of the millions of free-thinking decent people, if it recognises animal rights and, in particular, abolishes the abhorrent trade in cat and dog fur.
Cat and dog pelts sell for about US$1 each and every year, 2,000,000 cats and dogs suffer a horrific death, skinned alive for the pelts.
For what?
1. An insignificant contribution towards the Chinese economy - a few million US$; and
2. A clear message to the world that so long as the Chinese government permits the trade, China is not fit to take its place as a leading nation and certainly not one that is entitled to any trust or respect.
The "adverse fallout" and abhorrence for the Chinese government resulting from the trade will far exceeds the paltry contribution it makes towards China's economy. It is in China's interest, to abolish the trade.
It's our duty to tell the world about the trade and kick up such a stink that our message reverberates around the world.
Remember Tianamen Square. Let's make this another Tianamen Square – this time, for the animals.
Please sign the Online Petition. It's the First Step in Our Fight!"
Asoma.
Asoma!Category: Music
Here is the profile of a band I like, they’re called Asoma and they rock!!
It takes a unique blend of individuals to make a unique band.
Asoma stands alone as a band evading scenes and cliques, proudly creating it’s own brand of energetic rock.An exciting combination of 3 different nationalities creates an original sound unlike what you’ve heard before. Sliding in between the sheets of pop and rock, Asoma warms the crowd with contagious melodies, backed with hot riffs and strong vocal harmonies.No two songs are the same with these guys; The razorsharp sneer of ’SuperStar’ leads thru to the greasy singalong ’Gettin Sum’. Then from the melancholy ballad ’Running’ they wind up in the chaotic fury of ’Governator’.An intriguing mix of sounds keeps the audience compelled, trying to guess their next move and makes for a wide appeal for all who attend their shows. Turin rocks his guitar and vox from the not-so-distant shores of NZ. Rene7 is extraordinarily talented on bass, harking from his native Austria. And Mark holds the fort as the local boy, pounding and sweating it out behind the kit.These three guys are a fresh band, keen as any other to impress all those around them. With many years of experience between each of the members in the music scene, they know what it takes to get attention and keep it.So Asoma is here, they want the big time and they certainly deserve it. So as their success blossoms, come along and enjoy the ride, you know it’s going to be a good one.
Cos I don’t know if y’all Gettin Sum, but I am!
www.myspace.com/asoma
http://www.azumuth.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Here is the profile of a band I like, they’re called Asoma and they rock!!
It takes a unique blend of individuals to make a unique band.
Asoma stands alone as a band evading scenes and cliques, proudly creating it’s own brand of energetic rock.An exciting combination of 3 different nationalities creates an original sound unlike what you’ve heard before. Sliding in between the sheets of pop and rock, Asoma warms the crowd with contagious melodies, backed with hot riffs and strong vocal harmonies.No two songs are the same with these guys; The razorsharp sneer of ’SuperStar’ leads thru to the greasy singalong ’Gettin Sum’. Then from the melancholy ballad ’Running’ they wind up in the chaotic fury of ’Governator’.An intriguing mix of sounds keeps the audience compelled, trying to guess their next move and makes for a wide appeal for all who attend their shows. Turin rocks his guitar and vox from the not-so-distant shores of NZ. Rene7 is extraordinarily talented on bass, harking from his native Austria. And Mark holds the fort as the local boy, pounding and sweating it out behind the kit.These three guys are a fresh band, keen as any other to impress all those around them. With many years of experience between each of the members in the music scene, they know what it takes to get attention and keep it.So Asoma is here, they want the big time and they certainly deserve it. So as their success blossoms, come along and enjoy the ride, you know it’s going to be a good one.
Cos I don’t know if y’all Gettin Sum, but I am!
www.myspace.com/asoma
http://www.azumuth.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
Ancient city found in Melting Ice
Antarctica - In a startling scientific development yesterday Professor William Dyer (Geology, MU) reports discovery of ruins of an ancient city at the edge of the crumbling Wilkins ice shelf in Antarctica.
As part of the International Polar Year program Professor Dyer and a transdiciplinary team including Miskatonic Professors Lake (Biology) and Pabodie (Engineering) are investigating fossils of giant Antarctic marine life forms, previously unknown to science, some unidentifiable as either plants or animals, initially discovered while boring for ice cores.
Professor Lake suggests these fossils represent pre-Cambrian archaeozoa. Though badly damaged by the drilling, Lake reports intact samples have been obtained. The extremely early date in the geological strata of these fossils is otherwise problematic because of their highly evolved features, including star-shaped heads with cephalopoid tentacles.
Aerial photographs taken by Dyer show a sprawling stone city of permutahedra, cones, and non-euclidean forms. Professor Pabodie says these are, "unprecedented [...] atypical of ancient architecture in any other part of the world". Entering a fissure in one of the cones the two discovered a large petroglyphic mural they believe depicts a creation myth including the Moon separating from the Earth and marine forms similar to those discovered on the floor of the Ross Sea this antarctic summer.
Contact with Dyer's party was interrupted 17 hours ago by an unusually severe ice storm. In a garbled voice transmission received from the party before communications were lost, Dyer was apparently preparing to return to the site of the city to "take a lilly", archaeological slang meaning multi-site deep ice core samples. The USGS advises that severe weather conditions make it inadvisable for other polar investigators to attempt to approach the Wilkins shelf site at this time.
http://www.azumuth.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuth
As part of the International Polar Year program Professor Dyer and a transdiciplinary team including Miskatonic Professors Lake (Biology) and Pabodie (Engineering) are investigating fossils of giant Antarctic marine life forms, previously unknown to science, some unidentifiable as either plants or animals, initially discovered while boring for ice cores.
Professor Lake suggests these fossils represent pre-Cambrian archaeozoa. Though badly damaged by the drilling, Lake reports intact samples have been obtained. The extremely early date in the geological strata of these fossils is otherwise problematic because of their highly evolved features, including star-shaped heads with cephalopoid tentacles.
Aerial photographs taken by Dyer show a sprawling stone city of permutahedra, cones, and non-euclidean forms. Professor Pabodie says these are, "unprecedented [...] atypical of ancient architecture in any other part of the world". Entering a fissure in one of the cones the two discovered a large petroglyphic mural they believe depicts a creation myth including the Moon separating from the Earth and marine forms similar to those discovered on the floor of the Ross Sea this antarctic summer.
Contact with Dyer's party was interrupted 17 hours ago by an unusually severe ice storm. In a garbled voice transmission received from the party before communications were lost, Dyer was apparently preparing to return to the site of the city to "take a lilly", archaeological slang meaning multi-site deep ice core samples. The USGS advises that severe weather conditions make it inadvisable for other polar investigators to attempt to approach the Wilkins shelf site at this time.
http://www.azumuth.com/
www.myspace.com/azumuth
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Is Big Brother Watching?
Here is an article I found about the abundent use of security cameras in London at the moment:
George Orwell, Big Brother is watching your house
The Big Brother nightmare of George Orwell’s 1984 has become a reality - in the shadow of the author’s former London home.
It may have taken a little longer than he predicted, but Orwell’s vision of a society where cameras and computers spy on every person’s movements is now here.
Scroll down for more
Foresight: The cameras crowd George Orwell’s former London home
According to the latest studies, Britain has a staggering 4.2million CCTV cameras - one for every 14 people in the country - and 20 per cent of cameras globally. It has been calculated that each person is caught on camera an average of 300 times daily.
Use of spy cameras in modern-day Britain is now a chilling mirror image of Orwell’s fictional world, created in the post-war Forties in a fourth-floor flat overlooking Canonbury Square in Islington, North London.
On the wall outside his former residence - flat number 27B - where Orwell lived until his death in 1950, an historical plaque commemorates the anti-authoritarian author. And within 200 yards of the flat, there are 32 CCTV cameras, scanning every move.
Orwell’s view of the tree-filled gardens outside the flat is under 24-hour surveillance from two cameras perched on traffic lights.
The flat’s rear windows are constantly viewed from two more security cameras outside a conference centre in Canonbury Place.
In a lane, just off the square, close to Orwell’s favourite pub, the Compton Arms, a camera at the rear of a car dealership records every person entering or leaving the pub.
Within a 200-yard radius of the flat, there are another 28 CCTV cameras, together with hundreds of private, remote-controlled security cameras used to scrutinise visitors to homes, shops and offices.
The message is reminiscent of a 1949 poster to mark the launch of Orwell’s 1984: ‘Big Brother is Watching You’.
In the Shriji grocery store in Canonbury Place, three cameras focus on every person in the shop. Owner Minesh Amin explained: ‘They are for our security and safety. Without them, people would steal from the shop. Although this is a nice area, there are always bad people who cause trouble by stealing.’
Three doors away, in the dry-cleaning shop run by Malik Zafar, are another two CCTV cameras.
‘I need to know who is coming into my shop,’ explained Mr Zafar, who spent £400 on his security system.
This week, the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) produced a report highlighting the astonishing numbers of CCTV cameras in the country and warned how such ‘Big Brother tactics’ could eventually put lives at risk.
The RAE report warned any security system was ‘vulnerable to abuse, including bribery of staff and computer hackers gaining access to it’. One of the report’s authors, Professor Nigel Gilbert, claimed the numbers of CCTV cameras now being used is so vast that further installations should be stopped until the need for them is proven.
One fear is a nationwide standard for CCTV cameras which would make it possible for all information gathered by individual cameras to be shared - and accessed by anyone with the means to do so.
The RAE report follows a warning by the Government’s Information Commissioner Richard Thomas that excessive use of CCTV and other information-gathering was ‘creating a climate of suspicion’.
Interesting isn’t it? If Big brother is indeed watching, should we be scared? Are we going to be thrust into an Orwellian Nightmare or do we already live in one?? Do we already live like rats in a cage, self imposed slavery? Is the world going to end in 2012???
I must admit that after reading alot of conspiracy theories, I am abit confused. I mean it seems as though there are a million things happening at the moment, conspiracies and scams conducted by people, governments, agencies, criminals and corporations all over the world right now and it’s all abit overwhelming. It’s hard enough sometimes focusing on your own daily problems, and then having to focus on who’s pulling the wool over your eyes, well…
Not to say that you shouldn’t be standing up for your rights, but what exactly can you do? If we are under constant surveillance, what should we do? After seeing how many people were opposed to the war in Iraq, how many protested, and they still went to war, it’s a little disheartening to think that your govenment doesn’t care about your opinion. Of course you’d be a fool to think anything other than they’re all crooks, but sometimes it’s easier to just change the channel…
Only joking!!! Fight the Power(s), anarchy in the UK and no more war!!! It all makes for good song material, and I am after all a musician!
www.thisislondon.co.uk
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
www.azumuth.com
George Orwell, Big Brother is watching your house
The Big Brother nightmare of George Orwell’s 1984 has become a reality - in the shadow of the author’s former London home.
It may have taken a little longer than he predicted, but Orwell’s vision of a society where cameras and computers spy on every person’s movements is now here.
Scroll down for more
Foresight: The cameras crowd George Orwell’s former London home
According to the latest studies, Britain has a staggering 4.2million CCTV cameras - one for every 14 people in the country - and 20 per cent of cameras globally. It has been calculated that each person is caught on camera an average of 300 times daily.
Use of spy cameras in modern-day Britain is now a chilling mirror image of Orwell’s fictional world, created in the post-war Forties in a fourth-floor flat overlooking Canonbury Square in Islington, North London.
On the wall outside his former residence - flat number 27B - where Orwell lived until his death in 1950, an historical plaque commemorates the anti-authoritarian author. And within 200 yards of the flat, there are 32 CCTV cameras, scanning every move.
Orwell’s view of the tree-filled gardens outside the flat is under 24-hour surveillance from two cameras perched on traffic lights.
The flat’s rear windows are constantly viewed from two more security cameras outside a conference centre in Canonbury Place.
In a lane, just off the square, close to Orwell’s favourite pub, the Compton Arms, a camera at the rear of a car dealership records every person entering or leaving the pub.
Within a 200-yard radius of the flat, there are another 28 CCTV cameras, together with hundreds of private, remote-controlled security cameras used to scrutinise visitors to homes, shops and offices.
The message is reminiscent of a 1949 poster to mark the launch of Orwell’s 1984: ‘Big Brother is Watching You’.
In the Shriji grocery store in Canonbury Place, three cameras focus on every person in the shop. Owner Minesh Amin explained: ‘They are for our security and safety. Without them, people would steal from the shop. Although this is a nice area, there are always bad people who cause trouble by stealing.’
Three doors away, in the dry-cleaning shop run by Malik Zafar, are another two CCTV cameras.
‘I need to know who is coming into my shop,’ explained Mr Zafar, who spent £400 on his security system.
This week, the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) produced a report highlighting the astonishing numbers of CCTV cameras in the country and warned how such ‘Big Brother tactics’ could eventually put lives at risk.
The RAE report warned any security system was ‘vulnerable to abuse, including bribery of staff and computer hackers gaining access to it’. One of the report’s authors, Professor Nigel Gilbert, claimed the numbers of CCTV cameras now being used is so vast that further installations should be stopped until the need for them is proven.
One fear is a nationwide standard for CCTV cameras which would make it possible for all information gathered by individual cameras to be shared - and accessed by anyone with the means to do so.
The RAE report follows a warning by the Government’s Information Commissioner Richard Thomas that excessive use of CCTV and other information-gathering was ‘creating a climate of suspicion’.
Interesting isn’t it? If Big brother is indeed watching, should we be scared? Are we going to be thrust into an Orwellian Nightmare or do we already live in one?? Do we already live like rats in a cage, self imposed slavery? Is the world going to end in 2012???
I must admit that after reading alot of conspiracy theories, I am abit confused. I mean it seems as though there are a million things happening at the moment, conspiracies and scams conducted by people, governments, agencies, criminals and corporations all over the world right now and it’s all abit overwhelming. It’s hard enough sometimes focusing on your own daily problems, and then having to focus on who’s pulling the wool over your eyes, well…
Not to say that you shouldn’t be standing up for your rights, but what exactly can you do? If we are under constant surveillance, what should we do? After seeing how many people were opposed to the war in Iraq, how many protested, and they still went to war, it’s a little disheartening to think that your govenment doesn’t care about your opinion. Of course you’d be a fool to think anything other than they’re all crooks, but sometimes it’s easier to just change the channel…
Only joking!!! Fight the Power(s), anarchy in the UK and no more war!!! It all makes for good song material, and I am after all a musician!
www.thisislondon.co.uk
www.myspace.com/azumuthmusic
www.azumuth.com
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