tag:clan-rock.com,2005:/blogs/craig-blog?p=2craig blog2019-04-20T12:27:18+01:00The Clanfalsetag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/55318352018-11-29T10:32:19+00:002022-01-29T13:55:19+00:00A great end to the year – Clan support The Sweet.<p>Ok it’s been a while, I am having trouble keeping up.</p>
<p>It’s our final gig of 2018 this Sunday and to me at least it is a great way to finish the year.</p>
<p>Supporting The Sweet- yes The actual Sweet at <strong>Buckley Tivoli on Sunday 2<sup>nd</sup> December</strong>. Hard to believe I used to watch them on Top Of The Pops over 45 years ago. I remember buying Blockbuster and being very surprised at how good/Rocky the B-side was (need a Lot of Lovin’). Probably the first time I heard anyone really use a Tremolo arm (as whammy bars were called back then). That started something off, you really can’t get that sound on an acoustic. Later of course I moved on to enjoy Blackmore, Uli Jon Roth and Bernie Tormé all of whom use the said device extensively but it was probably Andy Scott who sparked my interest. The whammy bar is why I always preferred Fender Stratocasters to Gibson Les Pauls.</p>
<p>The Clan have a had a good year really, less gigs than previously but we have supported Hand of Dimes, Blaze Bayley, Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash and we had a great time last week with top tribute DIIO (A tribute to the music of Ronnie James Dio) and also our good friends “The Darker my Horizon”. Why TDmH are not higher profile in the UK (or in Europe) I really do not know, they have brilliant melodies, great vocals and certainly know how to rock. There are far worse bands being hyped and pushed by the media although I suppose it has always been that way.</p>
<p>We have also played a few Pub type gigs throughout the year including a return to local venue The Swinging Arm after a five-year absence. We are booked there twice next year.</p>
<p>Last Saturday we played a short set exclusively for a group of Photography students which was good fun. We should be provided with most of the output so that will be interesting. Can’t vouch for the content but the photo quality should be good haha.</p>
<p>If you want to catch us at our last gig this year or you just fancy seeing the Sweet and why wouldn’t you, then we still have a few tickets available at a discounted price from <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads">www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads</a></p>
<p>Probably too late to post out now but we can leave them on the door for you no problem.</p>
<p>The Sweet are well worth seeing, Jim and I saw them earlier this year and they were awesome, totally professional and great fun. All the hits plus some choice album tracks and by the way in a live environment they really rock. As for us, I think at this one we will be doing a 50/50 mix of Clan originals and some well-known covers in order to get everyone warmed up and in a good mood for the main event. As far as I know we are the only support (although these things often throw up surprises) so we may possibly get an hour?</p>
<p>If we don’t see you on Sunday then hopefully we will see you somewhere next year, a few things already lined up and incidentally, 2019 will be 40 years since my first ever gig (Sinner) and it is also the 40<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the New Wave of British heavy Metal (NWOBHM) so expect various events based around that which we may be involved in.</p>
<p>Until then, keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/54845472018-10-24T18:39:40+01:002022-03-29T08:30:58+01:00Clan Gig info for remainder of 2018<p>Hi All,</p>
<p>It’s been a while hasn’t it. Ok let’s start with what’s happening for the rest of the year</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 26<sup>th</sup> Oct</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Old Wine Vaults</strong></p>
<p>Eastwood</p>
<p>Notts</p>
<p>Onstage 8:00pm</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 2<sup>nd</sup> Nov</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Overchurch</strong></p>
<p>Royden Road</p>
<p>Wirral</p>
<p>Birthday Party- Not sure if this is a private event or not?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 24<sup>th</sup> Nov</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Tivoli – Buckley</strong></p>
<p>** (Three band Line up – The Clan/The Darker my Horizon/DIIO- Ronnie James Dio Tribute)</p>
<p>North Wales</p>
<p>7:00pm</p>
<p>Tickets available from <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads</a></p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><strong><u>Sunday 2<sup>nd</sup> Dec</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Tivoli – Buckley</strong></p>
<p>** (Support to The Sweet)</p>
<p>North Wales</p>
<p>7:00pm</p>
<p>Tickets available from <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads</a></p>
<p>The gig at The Eastwood this Friday is a special one. This is a new venue which opened two weeks ago and is run by Rob & Lil who used to run the Beeston Greyhound. We loved playing there and recorded “Second Helpings” there due to the great sound and great audience. Hopefully the Old Wine Vaults will be even better – Can’t wait to see.</p>
<p>The Overchurch gig is a Birthday party following our successful gig at the Horse & Jockey in Upton. I will check if it is a private event or whether anyone can attend. Will update when I know.</p>
<p>The gig at the Tivoli on 24<sup>th</sup> is a special thank you to everyone who has supported us this year and helped make it a good year for The Clan. We have asked some friends to come and play for you as well, The Darker my Horizon we have known since they were formed out of the ashes of Sacred Heart. One of the UKs best melodic rock bands they really should be seen by all rock fans. Then we have DIIO, a tribute to the music of the much loved and respected Ronnie James Dio. The band has members of well-respected tributes Hi-On-Maiden and Sack Sabbath within its ranks so quality is assured on tracks spanning Rainbow/Black Sabbath and Dio. We are starting the evening off with our Good time Feel good Rock –a good night in prospect and all for £12</p>
<p>Last year we finished the year with a support slot to Uli Jon Roth and this year is another belter. We support the one and only Sweet. Unfortunately Brian and Mick are no longer with us and Steve Priest resides in USA so Andy Scott keeps the band going these days and a crackin’ job he does too. We saw them earlier this year and it was a fantastic night out. You get all the Sweet hits, some of their album rock tracks and usually a short acoustic segment. It’s not simply nostalgia. They are a brilliant live band – this line up with Pete Lincoln on vocals (ex Sailor) has been together for many years now. All great musicians and a very entertaining show. Really looking forward to finishing the Clan’s year at this one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We already have gigs booked next year but we’ll leave that for now.</p>
<p>Highlights this year – playing gigs with Hand Of Dimes, Blaze Bayley and Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash. All nice friendly guys and also the other support bands on the bills, Wasted Fate and Fugitive. Keeping Original music alive.</p>
<p>Also thanks to Rokib and Kirsty at the Tivoli for continuing to believe in us.</p>
<p>We’ll end there for now but keep an eye on Facebook – The Clan , Twitter @theclanrock and our website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a> for updates</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig – The Clan</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/54224872018-09-10T16:11:37+01:002022-05-30T23:06:00+01:00Test<p>just a quick test to see where this ends up. A number of “feeder” sites to Facebook etc have now been blocked.</p>
<p>Once I have investigated I will write a full blog,</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/53692872018-07-31T15:55:43+01:002018-07-31T20:00:49+01:00Late gig booking – Aug 11th<p>So – on August 11th we play our Good time feel good Rock in Upton. The venue is The Horse & Jockey and it’s an early start and finish for us – 6pm-8pm. Seems they have two bands on every Saturday? Keep rockin’</p>
The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/53417902018-07-11T15:35:27+01:002023-12-10T16:44:44+00:00Clan News – Gigs etc.<p>Hi everyone,</p>
<p>It’s been a while so I now we are in July I figured time for an update. First off we have some good support slots coming up for the band at The Tivoli – Buckley.</p>
<p> </p>
<a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2018/07/11/clan-news-gigs-etc/blaze1stsept/"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/blaze1stsept.jpg?w=107&h=150" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="150" width="107" /></a>
<a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2018/07/11/clan-news-gigs-etc/tivoli-martin-turner/"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/tivoli-martin-turner.jpg?w=107&h=150" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="150" width="107" /></a>
<a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2018/07/11/clan-news-gigs-etc/diio-for-tiv/"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/diio-for-tiv.jpg?w=104&h=150" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="150" width="104" /></a>
<a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2018/07/11/clan-news-gigs-etc/sweet-clan/"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/sweet-clan.jpg?w=104&h=150" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="150" width="104" /></a>
<p>Tickets for all of these gigs are available from the Clan web site <a href="https://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads">Clan Ticket site</a> at discounted prices (no discount on DIIO), so if you are thinking of going to any of these please buy them from us – better for you and makes us look good with the promoters. Win win.</p>
<p>In addition tho these of course we continue to play various other selected venues where Live music is appreciated – the next one being a return to the Hoggs ‘n’ Heifers in Bentham. been a while since we played there but it is usually a good appreciative audience.</p>
<p>Speaking of which we played a rare local gig at the Ship inn-Hoylake recently and it went well. A lot of friends there, some we haven’t seen for a while and some I haven’t seen since I was at school – which is a long time ago. Only downside is that the pub is changing management so unlikely to play there again. Typical.</p>
<p>We have added some new songs to our set, some covers and a couple of originals. The plan is to record the new originals as soon as we can and put them out – still pondering the merits of whether it is more advantageous to release EPs or wait to do a full length album.</p>
<p>The modern trend for listening to music seems to be streaming and/or downloading so would people even bother with a whole album? Modern life appears to have created shorter attention spans. Jury still out on this. It is always good to have CDs available at gigs but more and more people seem to have abandoned CD players as well, even new cars don’t seem to have them fitted. That leaves the potential market for vinyl – trouble with this is that is far more expensive to produce, requires more artwork (inner sleeves, labels etc) and would anyone buy it?</p>
<p>it’s always a risk doing this if you want to recoup your outlay but some risks are smaller than others.</p>
<p>So that is about it for Clan news right now.</p>
<p>I can’t end without mentioning the unexpected and sad passing of my old Friend Andrew “Eddi” Edwards recently. Eddi and I were the founder members of “The Switch” ( he played drums) back in ’88 and we played in the band for four years. we had a lot of good times however as is the way once the band finished in ’92 we didn’t see a lot of each other. We both went on to join other bands and we used to bump into each other occasionally, the last time was at a Charity gig late last year. I was shocked to hear the news a few weeks ago – condolences to his family.</p>
<p><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/sw6.jpg?w=490" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="sw6" /></p>
<p>Anyway – lets’ all keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/49305942017-11-13T14:37:16+00:002018-06-01T08:26:22+01:00We have sneaked another 2017 Gig in & it is a hot one<p>Quick Update</p>
<p>Another date added to the gigs this year and this is a hot one</p>
<p><strong><u>Wednesday 6<sup>th</sup> December</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Live rooms</strong></p>
<p>Chester</p>
<p>Opening for Uli Jon Roth (Ex Scorpions, Electric Sun & More)</p>
<p>On stage 7:30?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On Wednesday Dec 6<sup>th</sup> we grace the same stage as Uli Jon Roth when The Clan open for him at Chester Live Rooms. As a fan of Uli (aka Ulrich Roth) since 1975 when I bought the Scorpion’s In Trance album I can’t stop smiling about this one. However if you have the slightest interest in the electric guitar you need to be at this gig. Uli is a complete master of the instrument, way above most people, yes he admits to being heavily Hendrix influenced but there is far more to him than that.</p>
<p>As someone who does G3 tours alongside acclaimed guitarists such as Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Steve Morse and Yngwie Malmsteen there is no doubting Uli’s credibility and the high esteem in which he is held amongst the elite of Rock guitarists. Playing a set of crackin’ Scorpions tunes from his tenure in the band and based on his final album with them 1978’s Tokyo Tapes double live album – recorded at the Nakano Sun Plaza, any rock fan would be foolish not to be at this gig and be astonished, mesmerised and completely blown away by the effortless talent, virtuosity and sheer genius that is Uli Jon Roth.</p>
<p>The Clan will be delivering a Good time Feel good Rock set based around our Second Helpings CD</p>
<p>Tickets are available from the venue or from The Clan website at <a href="https://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads">https://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads</a> – check it out.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1319/"><img src="https://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1319/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1319&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/49001682017-10-20T15:41:19+01:002017-10-20T18:30:20+01:00Last Clan gigs for 2017<p>Hi Everyone,</p>
<p>You still have three chances this year to catch UK Rockers <strong>The Clan</strong> delivering their Good time feel good Rock.</p>
<p><strong><u>Support the legendary Wishbone Ash</u></strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 3<sup>rd</sup> Nov</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Tivoli</strong></p>
<p>Buckley</p>
<p>N. Wales</p>
<p>7:30pm</p>
<p>Tickets can be obtained at a good discount from The Clan web site and will be posted out Free of charge or left on the door.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads">https://www.clan-rock.com/shop-downloads</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 18<sup>th</sup> Nov</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Griffin</strong></p>
<p>Earlestown/Newton Le Wilows</p>
<p>9:30pm</p>
<p><u> </u></p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 1<sup>st</sup> December</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Stanley’s Cask</strong></p>
<p>Rake Lane</p>
<p>Wallsey</p>
<p>Wirral</p>
<p>9:30pm</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1315/"><img src="https://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1315/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1315&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/48162372017-08-16T18:06:24+01:002017-08-16T21:45:35+01:00Shock Local gig for The Clan<p>Yes it is true. Good time Feel good Rockers The Clan play a local gig at Stanley’s Cask -Wallasey this Friday – 18th August. A great music venue with great beer.</p>
<p>Speaking of beer – just a reminder that the business of a pub is selling beer not promoting bands. They book bands in the hope of selling more beer than usual and increase their profit (remembering they need to pay the band as well) which is fair enough. If bands don’t pull in enough people to increase beer sales (and cover their fee at the very least) then they probably won’t get booked again no matter how good they may be. It’s about beer sales folks.</p>
<p>So next time you ask why a band isn’t playing at your pub it is probably because no-one turned up last time they were there and the Pub doesn’t want to lose money again. You can’t blame them for that.</p>
<p>Support live music – Have a night off from Catch up TV/Netflix/Amazon etc. get out and have a good night with like minded people. It’s only entertainment and fun, you will probably enjoy it. If you don’t it will disappear.</p>
<p>See you in Stanley’s Cask on Friday</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1292/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1292/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1292&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/48017312017-08-03T15:10:49+01:002022-02-25T03:11:27+00:00Clan Headline Llandudno Festival this Saturday.<p><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/08/llandudno-poster.jpg?w=490" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Llandudno poster" />Hi All,</p>
<p>Just to say that The Clan are headlining the Saturday night at the Llandudno Music Festival this weekend. Aug 5/6. Clan play at 9:20pm. As always we will be delivering Good time Feel good Rock and hope you all have fun and leave smiling.</p>
<p>Weather is looking favourable.</p>
<p>Saturday has 11 bands of different genres and then 8 more on Sunday.</p>
<p>All proceeds to Four charities.</p>
<p>A good day out and helping those in need. See you there</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1275/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1275/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1275&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/47404572017-06-10T08:10:38+01:002017-06-10T10:16:54+01:00Ex AC/DC Drummer reschedules UK Tour<p>It has just been confirmed that ex AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd is rescheduling his UK tour. The impact to us being that our (The Clan) support slot next Friday is also to be rescheduled.</p>
<p>I believe the new date for the Tivoli gig will be in October but as the band have not announced the new schedule yet I am not allowed to say any more at the moment.</p>
<p>Tickets for the June Date will be valid for the rescheduled date so keep hold of them.</p>
<p>Anyone who bought tickets from us directly and requires a full refund please get in touch via the website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> or any other way that you know. We hope of course you keep them and come and see us in October.</p>
<p>So – it is disappointing all round as we were looking forward to this one and now of course we have no gig next week either.</p>
<p>Still, at least it is being rescheduled not totally cancelled.</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1268/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1268/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1268&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/47310052017-06-02T07:37:31+01:002021-01-24T14:54:24+00:00Additional Gig tonight – Oldham 2nd June<p>The Clan play the Bank Top Tavern in Oldham tonight – Friday 2nd June.</p>
<p>Apologies for the short notice – we only got the booking last night as the booked band cancelled.</p>
<p>See you there – Keep Rockin’</p>
<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1261/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1261/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1261&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/47212692017-05-24T22:30:08+01:002017-05-25T00:33:06+01:00Another Blog!<p>What? Two in such a short time?</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 27<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Bath Hotel</strong></p>
<p>Northumberland Street</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>9:30pm.</p>
<p>This used to be one of our favourite venues but it closed down some time ago. Reopened under new owners we return to check it out on Saturday. Will it have the same people in the audience, hope so as we had a lot of friends in Morecambe but obviously we are hoping to make more.</p>
<p>Looking at the gig list – usual bands are there so we are looking forward to a good night.</p>
<p>Speaking of good nights, rather a good one in Shotton last week. We were a bit shattered due to having a few weeks off and we had a few gremlins, my guitar cutting out in first track? Then my voice was looking to say goodbye during the first set plus cramp in the fingers near the end but hey it all went ok. A great reception. Our Spoon/bone playing friend Malcolm was giving it loads by the end. All good fun but he does play out of time which is a bit distracting</p>
<p>I have also been thinking this week where the Clan fit in within the many genres of rock. In our heads we are quite simply a Good time Feel good rock band and we play gigs where people seem to enjoy us and our music. We are actually quite happy playing before or after any other band. However promoters and a lot of people seem to want to put us in a box, Classic Rock/New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) /pop rock. Blues rock etc. etc. To be honest we don’t really care but is it impacting our bookings? I don’t know – we do ok.</p>
<p>I’m not going to dwell on the events of this week- all very sad but I think the reporting has been a bit excessive. In fact I am really somewhat down on the media at the moment. I was never naïve enough to believe that we aren’t fed what the media want us to know but it really has become very obvious how biased they are recently.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>At the risk of repeating myself – Motorway Matrix signs. One day I will see one that actually tells me accurate information, but I won’t hold my breath. They are generally always incorrect. This week I passed one that told me the M5 was closed at Junction 4a-5. The Matrix was at Junction 4a and guess what the motorway was fully open!!!!!</p>
<p>Cyclists are getting on my nerves – Their stupid outfits, hi viz clothing (ok I understand that) and their complete lack of common road sense. Constantly darting in front of you in traffic jams, whizzing up both sides in busy traffic and generally ignoring traffic lights, road markings etc. Any wonder that they get knocked off.</p>
<p>The football season? I don’t think there is one anymore. When I was a kid it finished with the FA cup final at the start of May and started again In September, I really don’t think it ever finishes anymore. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind football as such but it does seem to occupy the media/press etc far more than it should.</p>
<p>Increased prices at Motorway service stations? Necessary to pay high overheads or a rip off.</p>
<p>Remember if you are in the AA you get a discount at Moto services. Kind of makes the prices realistic.</p>
<p>Staff in restaurants typing your order into a Tablet. Great unless you want to alter it. Never seems to allow for that. Use a pen and paper!</p>
<p>Staff in restaurants who seem to think remembering the order makes them seem clever – it doesn’t you usually get it wrong – Use a pen and paper!</p>
<p>Hmm, pattern forming here.</p>
<p>I am all for technology but only when it improves things. Simplicity works for me – does this make me old yes probably but older is wiser.</p>
<p>Nothing wrong with a pen and a piece of paper.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Pete Way – UFO bass player has written a biography. Now I have always been a fan of UFO and Pete Way, his book is a good read and I was impressed that unlike many rock stars biographies he started with music because he liked it and wanted to play it. Sadly of course he started to hit the drugs and booze and I am not sure he is really off them now. Being alive is a bonus and it sounds like he even has a new album in the works. A good read actually and obviously full of anecdotes about other rock stars. Recommended – Pete Way – Fast ride out of here.</p>
<p>New rock magazine from Planet rock radio. Seems ok, part way through first issue. Not unlike Classic rock Magazine – doubt there is room for both. Alongside the well-known stories about the classic rock bands (let’s face it after 40 years how much more is there to tell?) it pushes the latest Planet rock darlings – the ones on all their festivals (Rambin man, Rockstock etc). It’s an ok read though but a regular purchase – hmm, I doubt it. Classic Rock is slightly less focussed on the latest “new thing” and has a more varied coverage.in my opinion.</p>
<p>Festivals – are there too many – discuss? Ramblin Man looks the best of the bunch to me this year. Download (Donnington) – Not heard of most of the bands – yep I am old.</p>
<p>There are a lot of festivals for all genres – as I say too many? Have a think about it.</p>
<p>Digital music made it far too easy to copy albums, songs. Before that you copied an album to tape but that was really as far as you could go. Further copying became inaudible. So you had to buy your music.</p>
<p>Digital killed that.</p>
<p>Now of course you can digitise your albums via USB turntables so whether the resurgence in Vinyl sales will stop copying, I doubt it. In fact not really sure what that is all about. Yes I loved vinyl but was it more to do with the covers rather than the albums, personally I just want to listen to the music and don’t care whether it is digital/vinyl/cassette/8 track whatever?</p>
<p>So – let’s talk music. Still enjoying Phil Rudd’s Head Job album.</p>
<p>The Pete Way book caused me to listen to even more UFO than usual. Oddly some of the albums he doesn’t think are very good I think are. Covenant, Sharks and You are here all sound great to me.</p>
<p>The Sweet- they always struggled between wanting the limelight as Chinn/Chapman pop stars (Wig Wham bam, Hell raiser, Ballroom Blitz etc) and wanting to be serious rock musicians (Sweet FA, Set me free, Burnin’, Need a lot of lovin’). The Action collection has them all and a very good listen it is too. Their harmonies were brilliant and at times they could give Queen a run for their money. They (The Andy Scott version) are playing with Ritchie Blackmore at a couple of gigs but I suspect the set list will be the singles not the album/B side rockers. Money talks.</p>
<p>I have tickets to see Blackmore (Note I refuse to call this Rainbow) at the MEN at end of June. Hopefully it will still go ahead. I believe he has recorded a new version of I surrender and a version of Land of hope and glory with current singer Ronnie Romero. This begs the question why? I will probably buy them of course but really only through interest.</p>
<p>So keep rockin’ keep happy and stay optimistic</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p>Remember we support Phil Rudd (Ex AC/DC) and his band at The Tivoli on Friday June 23<sup>rd</sup>. As a special one off deal as we will be selling tickets at our gig in the Clwyd this Friday. So if you are thinking of going to the Phil Rudd gig then then might be worth popping along. Normal price is £25 but I can guarantee that they will be a <strong>lot</strong> cheaper than that.</p>
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<p>Keep rockin’</p>
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<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1249/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1249/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1249&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/47130502017-05-17T20:20:06+01:002017-05-18T02:16:52+01:00Gig Update<p>Well it’s not when I intended but better late than never and just a quickie to remind you of the upcoming gigs<strong><u> </u></strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 19<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Clwyd Hotel</strong></p>
<p>Shotton</p>
<p>Deeside</p>
<p>North Wales</p>
<p>9:30pm</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 27<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Bath Hotel</strong></p>
<p>Northumberland Street</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>9:30pm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Remember we support Phil Rudd (Ex AC/DC) and his band at The Tivoli on Friday June 23<sup>rd</sup>. As a special one off deal as we will be selling tickets at our gig in the Clwyd this Friday. So if you are thinking of going to the Phil Rudd gig then then might be worth popping along. Normal price is £25 but I can guarantee that they will be a <strong>lot</strong> cheaper than that.</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1243/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1243/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1243&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/46925052017-05-01T20:16:49+01:002017-05-01T22:06:28+01:00Still Alive & Rockin’<p>Hello everyone, yes I am still alive and kicking. A few of you have been in touch to say that you haven’t received a blog for a while so had I lost your emails etc. Well the short answer is No, I have just had a lot going on this year which has kept me off the grid but I’m back. Hoping to get back into the regular routine. Can’t believe four months of the year have already gone.</p>
<p>Taking all that into account I think it is best if I start afresh and if anything is repeated well I am sure you can live with it.</p>
<p>As always of course first up – Upcoming Clan gigs</p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 19<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Clwyd Hotel</strong></p>
<p>Shotton</p>
<p>Deeside</p>
<p>North Wales</p>
<p>9:30pm</p>
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<p><strong><u>Saturday 27<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Bath Hotel</strong></p>
<p>Northumberland Street</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>9:30pm.</p>
<p>Both regular gigs although the Bath was closed for a while and is now under new management. It looks like it has been redecorated as well – hopefully some of the old crowd will turn up as well as new folks, we always had good nights there in the past.</p>
<p>If you haven’t been following Facebook or the web site then here’s a quick summary of the year so far: we have played quite a few gigs already in some of our usual venues however we have also done some higher profile and larger venue gigs. For example we played Mearfest at Trillians in Newcastle earlier this year which was an all-day Charity rock festival . Great event, good people and a good cause. £2300 raised I believe. (9 bands including us, Damaj, The Deep, Filth Hounds, Tysondog, Millenium, Spartan Warrior and Avenger). Ok so we were not as heavy as some of the others but we are a rock band and we rocked and ooh guess what – people liked it.</p>
<p>Recently we played a support slot to infamous US Rockers LA Guns and it was another good one for us. All good comments, a very enjoyable gig and yes LA guns were good as well J. Their tour support were Stone Trigger. Not my cup of tea but they went down quite well and good luck to them trying to “make it” whatever that means these days.</p>
<p>We followed all this up with a charity gig in Wales in the company of good friends of ours, The Bite, plus another local band Black Sunrise. First up were a very young band (average age 12) just starting on the rock path, Murder in a Minute, obviously they haven’t played a lot but they were not bad at all and let’s face it they are the future of live music.</p>
<p>Blimey, we actually played a local gig not long ago – April 15<sup>th</sup> – Stanley’s Cask – Wallasey – A good old home town gig.There are usually a load of musicians in there but hey we do what we do and let’s face it Beethoven it is not but it is fun. It seemed a bit quieter than I hoped for but it was Easter weekend so maybe that was the reason. Anyway for all the people who complain that we don’t play local enough that was your chance. We are not back on Wirral until August so put it in your diaries now. August 18<sup>th</sup> – Stanley’s Cask – Wallasey.</p>
<p>Actually our diary is looking ok for this year, another 3-4 gigs and it will be enough for us. Will Cambridge Rock Festival be one? Not sure but it does look as though the festival is going to take place at the start of August albeit in a new location. I know FM have been confirmed.</p>
<p>Big news – Well in June we play support to AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd’s band at The Buckley Tivoli – Friday 23<sup>rd</sup> June. As you would expect it’s fairly straight forward rock and I know he plays some songs by his former employers as well. I bought the album “Head Job” out of interest and courtesy and was pleasantly surprised to find that actually I really like it. It took a few listens but it certainly grew on me. Had it on constant repeat on a couple of 3 hour journeys recently which is more than I can say about quite a few new albums I have bought. Tickets can be bought from our website at a discounted cost.</p>
<p>**Note – As a one off deal as we would love you to come and support us at The Tivoli in Buckley we will also be selling them at our gig in the Clwyd on 19<sup>th</sup> May at an even more reduced cost. So if you are thinking of going to the Phil Rudd gig then then might be worth popping along. Normal price is £25 but I can guarantee that they will be a lot cheaper than that.</p>
<p>In August we play the 1<sup>st</sup> Llandudno music festival. It is a charity event being held over two days August 5/6 at Llandudno Football club. 19 bands I believe, all genres. We have been asked to finish the Saturday night off which we are honoured and proud to do. I don’t know who all the other bands are yet but I will post them up on our various sites when I do. We will also sell tickets from our website to help out – all ticket money to the charities.</p>
<p>Later in the year (Nov) we have been asked to support Wishbone Ash again at the Buckley Tivoli. We had a good gig with them last year so hoping it will be even better this time. It clashed with bonfire night last time so crowd would perhaps have been bigger although it was good turnout.</p>
<p>The new album is written and due to other commitments I think the only way it will be recorded is by separate sessions amongst the band. Not the way I would prefer to do it but not a lot of choice due to time constraints. Basically I will provide the basic track and then drums and bass can be added to that. Then I will re-record my parts, vocals, lead guitars etc. on top. The album will be called “Rise Up” and probably have 10-11 tracks.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants & Credits</u></strong></p>
<p>As you know I am really only trying to mention things that impact me or people I know rather than just general moaning but it is sometimes difficult to keep to this.</p>
<p>Hotels that charge you more to allow the option to cancel. Why? Are they paying some cancellation insurance policy with the extra money, I doubt it.</p>
<p>Hotels where my room always seems to be as far from reception as it is possible to be. Do they see me coming or do they think because I appear fit and healthy it is ok to put me there. I don’t really mind if that is the reason but it does seem to happen a lot.</p>
<p>A pub, which shall remain nameless, that blatantly doesn’t have enough staff to service the restaurant and the bar at the same time. The same pub doesn’t even sell Crisps, nuts or any other form of bar snack/nibble so unless you want to eat in the restaurant and wait an hour for food you are stuck. It obviously relies on trade from the nearby premier inn (which is not affiliated and is actually very good) and the fact there is no alternative for some distance roundabout. Very poor and just lazy management in my opinion.</p>
<p>If they haven’t already someone is going to be seriously hurt whilst studying their mobile phone in a car park. I saw a woman the other day walk past two cars that had started reversing, one was actually a transit van, and she never even noticed she was so engrossed. Frightening.</p>
<p>It seems to me there are an awful lot of cars on the roads with indicator faults as they never seem to work.:-)</p>
<p>Not a rant but high praise for the BBC’s Line of Duty, excellent series, had everyone guessing until the end. I also enjoyed Peter Kay’s car share but appreciate it won’t be to everyone’s taste.</p>
<p>How could I not mention Brian Pern “A Tribute”? Hilarious and another stream of cameo appearances (including McCartney) which added to the fun.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Well as I mentioned last time I had ordered a CD by <strong>Suzi</strong> <strong>Quatro</strong>, Sweet Guitarist <strong>Andy</strong> <strong>Scott </strong>and Slade drummer <strong>Don</strong> <strong>Powell. </strong>Well the CD arrived<strong> (</strong>called QSP). To be honest I am disappointed. 50% of it is pub band quality standard covers and the other 50% is pretty bland. One track shows a glimpse of what could have been for about 30 seconds but that is your lot. Ah well.</p>
<p>I had to dig out my old IPod recently and it doesn’t hold as much as my normal one which has meant being more selective as to what to load on to it (30GB). So a lot of the favourites. Had a long journey recently and listened to a variety of Judas Priest albums from Rocka Rolla to Redeemer of Souls. All great stuff, well perhaps with the exception of Rocka Roller. How they went from that to Sad wings of Destiny I don’t know as many of the songs on Sad Wings are classics.</p>
<p>I’ve seen Priest many times, always a great live show as well.</p>
<p>On the strength of glowing reviews I purchased Thunder’s latest offering “Rip it up”. I should have learnt by now not to listen to reviews or to take them with a pinch of salt. Many people will like this album I am sure but unlike Phil Rudd’s Head job album Rip It up didn’t warrant a third listen to me. In fact I only listed to it twice in case something jumped out at me, it didn’t.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1231/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1231/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1231&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/46695792017-04-13T13:46:19+01:002017-04-13T15:47:32+01:00The Clan – Wallasey Gig – this Saturday<p>Ok – Just a very quick Update.</p>
<p>The Clan play their Good time Feel good Rock this Saturday – April 15th.</p>
<p>Rare Hometown venue – Stanley’s cask – Rake Lane – Wallasey, Wirral. 9:30pm</p>
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<p>So here we are again – 2017 and January rapidly disappearing.</p>
<p>Next gig for us is</p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 27<sup>th</sup> January</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Bank Top Tavern</strong></p>
<p>Kings square</p>
<p>Oldham</p>
<p>Onstage 10:00</p>
<p>That is this Friday folks – new venue for us but have heard good things so we are looking forward to it.</p>
<p>Our first gig of the year was at Stanley’s Cask on 13<sup>th</sup>. Now we rarely play a bad gig even if I do say so myself, our bad gigs are still pretty good by a lot of bands’ standards. So whilst it all went ok I know we can do better. To be fair I wasn’t really feeling great, too many external things spinning around my head which were taking my mind off the job and that is really not on. If people come to see us (or any band) they expect and deserve proper delivery. I wasn’t happy with the sound either, it just didn’t sound like it usually does and that throws you as you are spending time wondering why when you should be focussed on performing. Having said all that I suspect it is only me being pedantic as we had to do an encore and everyone we spoke to enjoyed it.</p>
<p>So full attention this Friday!</p>
<p>Live album of the year (Severn FM). Ok so we didn’t win but we were runners up which I think is pretty good. Ahead of Walter Trout actually. Whether we can use this fact to obtain more gigs I don’t know but we will certainly try. Thanks to everyone who voted for us.</p>
<p>Speaking of more gigs we have been asked (yes they asked us) to Support Wishbone Ash again in November at The Tivoli – Buckley. This is following a successful gig with them at the same venue last November. It was a good night last year so hopefully even better this year. Quite some time off of course so plenty of time for you to save up.</p>
<p>I mentioned last time that Team Rock had gone into administration and that this could mean the end for Classic Rock Magazine. Well Future Publications who used to publish it have taken it back over so it will continue for the foreseeable future. I will probably buy it if I see it but I am a bit reluctant to subscribe for a year.</p>
<p>Sadly some things that won’t continue are a number of pubs including the Cross keys in Morley – Leeds. We had a good gig there last year but it will be closing its doors in March as it is up for sale. Shame as Colin has a good live set up there.</p>
<p>On a plus point one of our favourite venues The Bath in Morecambe has reopened and we play there in May if it keeps going. Be good to see a lot of good friends we have there as we have played there quite a few times since 2010.</p>
<p>Some pub venues continue to ignore us of course, I’m not into naming them as they know who they are and it is up to them who they book of course, their business after all. I do find it slightly frustrating and puzzling though when you see who is playing in them and it is basically the same bands who play other venues we play in. Not that we are short of venues though.</p>
<p>So despite the pubs that ignore us the Clan are now in year 7 and heading towards playing their 600th gig this year. The time has gone quickly and we have achieved a fair bit when I look back. Plenty more to come though including hopefully a new album this year. It’s all down to finances and time. The music side is sorted.</p>
<p>The more observant amongst you will have noticed that the band web site has been given a revamp. All the content is the same but the overall look has been changed, it was getting a bit dated I thought. Have a look at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Ok as you know I am really only trying to mention things that impact me or people I know rather than just general moaning.</p>
<p>Hmm – let’s see. Jobsworth. I recently had occasion to remove some bags from a property. I parked my car and bagged up the items ready to move them out to the car. To make life easier I drove my car round to the car park at the back of the property and parked in an empty “residents only parking bay”. There were four vacant. I left my boot open so it was obvious I was loading and I went for the first bags. Upon returning less than 2 mins later I was told by someone (who never said hello, asked what I was doing or introduced himself) that I could not park there as it is residents parking only and they pay for it.</p>
<p>Upon explaining I would be less than ten minutes and that if anyone wanted to use the bay I would simply move plus there were four empty bays I was told once again “you can’t park there – residents only and I am on the residents committee”.</p>
<p>So – common sense was not something this jobsworth possessed and I told him so. Yes I moved my car to the unmarked Guest parking slot and had to carry my bags a bit further. But really, it makes you wonder what planet some people live on. Obviously nothing better to do.</p>
<p>Food not as described. I may have mentioned this previously. Normally this is of the pre-packed variety. E.g. you purchase a Sausage or bacon sandwich only to discover it has tomato sauce (which I detest) on it. Not listed in the ingredients. Beef and Onion (with non-listed mustard) is another one. Very annoying and expensive if you don’t eat it. On the more serious side it is dangerous for people with allergies.</p>
<p>Computers that demand I do this that and the other before I can actually do what I intended in the first place. You know, download the latest update and install Java? That sort of thing. Makes everything take longer than it should.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>For fans of 70s “glam” you may be interested to know that Suzi <strong>Quatro</strong>, Sweet Guitarist Andy <strong>Scott </strong>and Slade drummer Don <strong>Powell </strong>have teamed up and made an album called QSP. It should be winging its way to my door as I write all the way from Australia and I am looking forward to its arrival. 50/50 Covers and Original material apparently.</p>
<p>No doubt it will be released worldwide at some point but not as yet.</p>
<p>I’ll give a brief review once I hear it.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1211/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1211/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1211&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/45418122017-01-08T17:46:19+00:002017-01-08T18:33:07+00:00LA Guns, Wishbone Ash,Stanley’s Cask<p>Hello and a Happy New Year to you all.</p>
<p>There has been a lot of negativity about 2016 being a bad year for losing people and that may or may not be true, or are we all just getting older, so anyway let’s move forward with a good positive attitude.</p>
<p>The good news is that Jim’s broken rib is fixed and he will be back on form in time to kick it all off at the two gigs this month</p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 13<sup>th</sup> January</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Stanley’s Cask</strong></p>
<p>Rake Lane</p>
<p>Wallasey</p>
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<p><strong><u>Friday 27<sup>th</sup> January</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Bank Top Tavern</strong></p>
<p>Oldham</p>
<p>The Cask gig is a return for us after 9 months away from our home turf so hopefully a decent sized crowd and a good fun gig will be had by all. We will do our bit. It’s a good music venue where people actually go to see and hear live music which is what we are trying to concentrate on. So let’s hope it is a good one.</p>
<p>The Bank Top Tavern is a new one for is although it is very close to Oldham’s other music Venue – Whittles which we have played a few times. Not sure how they work together so we will see but it has an in house PA so is obviously another venue geared up for live music. Always good to play new venues.</p>
<p>High profile gigs for us this year so far are Mearfest in Newcastle on March 5<sup>th</sup> (all day ten band charity rock festival) and a support slot to 80s American Glam/sleaze/hair rockers LA Guns who have reformed to include vocalist Phil Lewis (ex Girl/Tormé) and guitarist Tracii Guns (ex Guns & Roses). This is at The Tivoli – Buckley on March 15<sup>th</sup> and if anyone wants tickets you can buy them throughout January at half the normal price in other words they will cost a tenner if you buy them form our website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/shop">www.clan-rock.com/shop</a> . Also on the bill are heavily tipped rockers Stone Trigger. Tickets for Mearfest can be obtained from either Trillians rock bar in Newcastle or the Mearfest website</p>
<p>As you will all know, because I have bene hassling you to vote for us, we have been nominated for live album of the year on the blues show – Severn FM radio. Hopefully you all voted for us and we will find out this Monday on the blues show at 9pm. Fingers crossed but hey ho, as I have said before nice to be nominated anyway. I was told we were a close second prior to the voting closing so if you did vote it may have been crucial. I agree with the comments that music is not a competition but this type of thing is really more about popularity and fans in addition to increasing the awareness of the band. A good result could provide more gigs.</p>
<p>Speaking of radio and rock media, it seems that Team Rock who took over the production of Classic Rock magazine have gone into administration. This means no more Classic Rock Mag and a number of other rock related publications as well. Is this because of people reading online or the fact that often news is out of date by the time the mags are produced? I am not so sure, many readers of these magazines do like to hold the physical thing and leaf through. Ok I admit that there have been a lot of repeated articles given new spin but what else can be done to keep talking about the likes of Zep and Floyd where there is no new news? Also recently I noticed a lot of lazy 100 lists which seemed to be a way to fill the paper with reduced effort. I may even have mentioned this before. So possibly the writing was on the wall for a while.</p>
<p>There have also been changes at TBFM radio, an excellent internet station for new music. The top man has taken a step back due to constant arguments/slanging matches etc. on social media. Personally I think he should have not bothered responding to such things and just ignored it but he didn’t and it all finally got to him. He has handed over the reins to someone else. Hopefully it will continue to grow as it has been doing. Good luck to Jay in the future.</p>
<p>Social media, I thought the idea was to spread the word by sharing, liking etc. and no doubt it is but even though it requires a simple click of less than 30 seconds I don’t think it happens very often, not just of us but for most bands/artists etc. I know liking and sharing is not the same as attending a gig or buying CDs etc. but it is a good starting point and the greater the number of likes a page has then there is more chance of booking agents taking notice. So if you haven’t already clicked like on our Facebook page The Clan please do so.</p>
<p>Maybe I need to include cute cat clips in all my posts? J</p>
<p>I think this year we may produce a t-shirt with all the venues we play throughout the year listed (2017 tour shirt – haha) so all you venues out there, if you want to be on it you had better book us.</p>
<p>I have started pre-production for the new album, essentially this means sorting out the songs and their arrangements so that when we start recording we all know what we are aiming for and don’t waste (expensive) studio time faffing about. Paid studio time is not really the place to be learning the songs. I was going to do some preliminary recording before Christmas but a heavy cold meant my ears and voice stopped working, not good for recording.</p>
<p>All over that now so it’s back to it.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>I often park in a road where someone puts traffic cones outside their house to keep “their space”. Not sure where the cones came from, no markings on them but I don’t believe this is legal at all and if I want to park there I can just move the cones. Obviously they used to watch TV series “bread”.</p>
<p>People who keep telling me that my weight loss system won’t work. It does for me, I know my body and if I apply my system I lose weight. So please keep your advice to yourselves.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Not actually listened to a lot recently but I have read the Biography of Andy Powell (Wishbone Ash). As we played with them recently and he mentioned it I thought it might be a good read. It’s ok but personally I didn’t really like the style used to write it. Some of the chapters went on a bit and there seemed to be an absence relating to his early experiences in bands and how he really got started on the guitar. I guess Wishbone ash readers will love it but I like music biographies to be a good read even for non-fans and not sure this one was. It does prove that Wishbone Ash are and always have been a very hard working band though.</p>
<p>I did acquire both Troyen’s album “Finish what you started” and Sister Rose’s album, thought I would given that we have played with both bands and like them.</p>
<p>Troyen’s has more variation whereas Sister Rose’s has a familiar feel all the way through, reminded me of Aussie rockers Airborne actually.</p>
<p>Both good though, certainly worth a listen.</p>
<p>So that is all for now. Let’s hope we get a few festivals and a few more support slots throughout the year.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1204/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1204/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1204&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/45293122016-12-29T11:17:44+00:002016-12-29T12:16:54+00:00Vote for us and support original music!<p>Hi All, just a polite request for you to vote for us on Severn Radio. We have been nominated for best Live album of the year for “Second Helpings” on their blues show.</p>
<p>It is really easy to vote for us and will only take a minute.</p>
<p>email: Blues@severnfm.com</p>
<p>Subject: Best Live</p>
<p>Content: The Clan</p>
<p>The reason we are included in this is that their presenter (Dr Wart Hoover) saw us at Cambridge Rock festival and liked what he heard and saw, along with many other people. This led to us being played on the show and hence nominated alongside the likes of Walter Trout. Would be nice to win but it’s an honour to be nominated.</p>
<p>We have had some other air play recently – BBC Radio Merseyside (Billy Butler I think) continues to pay our Christmas song annually which is good. Again, thanks Billy for supporting new original local bands.</p>
<p>We also play a local gig (shock horror) on January 13th. Stanley’s Cask – Wallasey. Jim’s broken rib should be fixed by then so back to full Clan experience.</p>
<p>Ok, that’ll do for now – please vote (and ask your friends as well)</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1181/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1181/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1181&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/45138252016-12-16T09:55:13+00:002016-12-16T14:04:43+00:00End of year Blog? Broken ribs and cancelled gigs.<p>Ok well this could be a very long rambling blog or if I run out of time as I invariably do it may be cut short. Keep reading to find out?</p>
<p>Right, first thing is first</p>
<p>Due to Jim breaking a Rib our final gig this year (Beeston Greyhound this Friday – Today) has been cancelled. Yes we probably could have found a drummer to sit in but why would we want to do that? The Clan is a band in which all three of us contribute equally and the absence of any one of us immediately reduces the delivery and performance to a maximum of 67%. As a band that thrive on live gigs we always aim to deliver 100% so given that was never going to be possible we decided to pull the gig and hopefully re-arrange for some time during 2017. A shame as we love playing the Greyhound, it is one of our favourite venues however we explained the situation to Rob and he seemed ok about it being the reasonable guy that he is.</p>
<p>Our next gig is a “home” gig –Stanley’’ Cask – Wallasey in January. Hopefully Jim will be fixed and cleared to play.</p>
<p>I guess it is almost time to look back at the year. As always, highs and lows as far as the band but mainly highs. Our decision to play less but better quality gigs is certainly paying off as far as I am concerned. Highlights include – Snooty Fox, Cambridge Rock Festival, Supporting Wishbone Ash, Chester Live rooms and Fakefest. That doesn’t mean the others were not enjoyable of course. Not really anyway we regret. A couple of new venues found as well plus of course others closing (The Bath in Morecambe being a sad day)</p>
<p>We are already looking forward to next year though with Mearfest (Newcastle), Supporting LA Guns (Buckley Tivoli) and hopefully more next year alongside the pub gigs.</p>
<p>I don’t really like to talk about personal and family life in these blogs but suffice to say there have been better years. Onwards and upwards.</p>
<p>So what else? A Failure to lose the weight as per my goal. Slightly frustrating but when there are other things happening it kind of goes out of the window. Just keep trying I suppose.</p>
<p>Christmas is nearly upon us, that won’t help any weight loss but it is an event which kind of marks the end of the year regardless as to your feelings about it. Remember our Festive track is still available to download from our <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/downloads" target="_blank">website</a> or <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858" target="_blank">ITunes. </a> if you fancy a change to the usual. Got to try haven’t I? Still, I have to say I still Like Greg Lake’s offering and sad to lose him recently.</p>
<p>Not much else to talk about at the moment.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>As I have said previously I am trying to only get worked up about things that have a direct impact on me or my loved ones. GP surgeries are one, some are impossible to get an appointment in when you actually need it. In fact the NHS really is creaking at the seams these days. I am not sure it is sustainable in its present form for much longer. I can see that Private health insurance may well be introduced at some point for the more costly procedures and treatments.</p>
<p>I am sure it is unavoidable but cutting off the train service between Wirral and Liverpool is going to cause major disruption, chaos in the Mersey road tunnels and a lot of people arriving late to work. On the plus side the Mersey ferries may have a resurgence if they can manage to keep more than one boat going. Still, it is only for 6 months!!</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>I saw some good pro bands this year, Michael Schenker being one of them, excellent. Blackmore was good of course although his band were a bit non-descript apart for Ronnie Romero the vocalist.</p>
<p>They are back in June so I will be going of course, it may be better, you can never tell what Ritchie Blackmore may do.</p>
<p>Kent Duchaine never fails to impress despite playing to disinterested pub regulars who would rather he wasn’t there. A trooper.</p>
<p>I have watched a few good music documentaries recently, Twisted Sister, Gary Numan and UB40. All very interesting although not really a fan of any of them musically. What came over in the Twisted Sister film was their sheer determination and commitment to putting on a good show, ploughing all their earnings back into it to make it even better next time around. This was true with Paul Stanley/Kiss and Alice Cooper band as well. It is very difficult to “make it” in the music business without financial input. Most bands have a backer (it used to be the record company but these days is more likely to be an individual with deep pockets) who will feed money into getting the band recorded, placed on tours, radio play, Magazine and press coverage etc. That always has been the way I think, just remember that backer will want their money back when it starts coming in. That is how it works.</p>
<p>Unfortunately it is not all about talent, the reality is that it is more about marketing and exposure.</p>
<p>I have been listening to a quite a lot of bands that came out of the NWOBHM (New Wave of British heavy Metal) movement recently. Many have reformed and there are some good bands out there.</p>
<p>I came out of the same era (First Sinner gig 1979) although thankfully never went along with the spandex trousers that many sported. Quite frankly even thinking about that image is frightening. I probably had a few bad stage outfits over the years but hey that is life. Nobody is perfect.</p>
<p>Nwobhm is actually having a bit of a comeback although whether it will attract younger fans I don’t know. Hopefully it may encourage a few people to write and play their own music.</p>
<p>Ok, that is it for now, I am trying to get back into the weekly routine so watch this space.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1152/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1152/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1152&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/45005622016-12-07T16:17:31+00:002016-12-07T18:04:26+00:00Final Clan Gigs for 2016.<p>Hi everyone</p>
<p>It appears that it is nearly two months since the last Blog thing. Time flies doesn’t it and not sure I can remember all that has happened.</p>
<p>Important things first – two final gigs this year</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 10<sup>th</sup> December</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Elton Fold WMC</strong></p>
<p>Bury</p>
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<p><strong><u>Friday 16<sup>th</sup> December</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Greyhound</strong></p>
<p>Beeston</p>
<p>Notts</p>
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<p>Since the last time we played a few gigs, The Clwyd which went well, The Griffin which also went well and the main event was The Tivoli supporting Wishbone Ash which went very well indeed.</p>
<p>In fact – big news – we are back at the Tivoli next March supporting legendary 80s sleaze/glam/hair band LA Guns.</p>
<p>Twitter : @theclanrock Website: <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> Facebook page: The Clan</p>
<p>Ok I am leaving it here for now as time has caught up.</p>
<p>Expect an update before the year end</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1146/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1146/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1146&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/44200802016-10-14T22:41:15+01:002017-01-14T00:19:07+00:00The Clan and the Biz that is music<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Thought it was about time you received an update as it has been quite a few weeks.</p>
<p>Actually we were expecting to be taking September off as this is what we had scheduled however things change and you can’t stop Rockers Rocking!</p>
<p>However before that</p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 21<sup>st</sup> October</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Clwyd </strong></p>
<p>Shotton/Connah’s Quay</p>
<p>This has always been a good venue for us and we are looking forward to returning to play for everyone including all our good friends there.</p>
<p>As I indicated earlier September was meant to have been a month off however a change in plans meant that we obtained a couple of late bookings.</p>
<p>We played Wangies in Eccles on 10<sup>th</sup>, as a last minute replacement for Iron Maiden tribute Aces ‘n’ Eights. We like Wangies and it was good to return as it has been a while. Despite people perhaps expecting Maiden tracks it all went well and we expect to return next year. Good to meet up with Adrien from Cadence Noir again as well. He recorded our first live album The Clan – 100% live.</p>
<p>This was followed later in the month by another short notice gig this weekend in Todmorden. The venue was the bizarrely named “Polished Knob” which actually turned out to be a good live venue. Hopefully return in 2017.</p>
<p>Last Friday was supposed to be Southport’s Fox & Goose however due to a management change three weeks ago there was an organisational “error” and we were cancelled due to a double booking. We have been promised a return gig in 2017 but nothing confirmed yet.</p>
<p>Another bizarre event was being booked out of the blue for a support slot at the O2 Academy in Liverpool on Oct 15<sup>th</sup>. Within a week of being told 100% we had the slot we were cancelled as it appeared the two main bands appearing (under the same management) had differing opinions about which support band could sell more tickets. Who knows what was going on but it could still lead to something in the future? The music biz eh?</p>
<p>So with all the changes happening at the moment it is probably a good idea to keep checking the following:</p>
<p>Twitter : @theclanrock Website: <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> Facebook page: The Clan</p>
<p>Currently the two “big” gigs remaining this year are Nov 5<sup>th</sup> when we have a support slot to the legendary Wishbone Ash at the Tivoli in Buckley and then on Dec 1<sup>st</sup> we play a double header with our good friends Troyen at The Live rooms in Chester. We will also be selling our merchandise at all shows from now on. Actually we only have one XXL t-shirt left, quite a few XL (which were the majority) and a few Large. All now available from our website as well.</p>
<p>In fact talking of the website the more observant of you will have noticed that it has had a slight revamp. Audio downloads are now on a separate page to physical items (CDs, shirts etc.) and Videos have been separated from Photos. Videos have also been split into two columns, Originals and Covers. This should make it easier for venues and promoters to check us out to see how we match their requirements.</p>
<p>We could probably do with some new video actually, maybe filmed in rehearsals. Have to speak to any budding filmmakers out there.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Currently I just feel like I am turning (or already have turned) into a major grumpy old man so I am going to try and take steps to reverse this. I understand from researching it that there are two reasons for being grumpy. One – you fall into the habit and actually start to enjoy the reputation for being a grump OR two – you start to get annoyed at things which when you think about it really have no impact on you and actually getting wound up about them is really a waste of your own time. I definitely fall into the latter category.</p>
<p>Really the way around this for me is to be glad that I have my health, family and loved ones: these are the most important things in my life. Yes I still have compassion for others and care about what is happening in the world but really should I be spending time working myself up over TV programs, other people’s attitudes and behaviours, trends I don’t like, bad drivers etc. No! It really is a waste of my precious time as none of these things has any impact on me. Interestingly I note that some of my contemporaries seem to be heading the same way J</p>
<p>Taking this into account I am only going to try and put things that do have an impact into the Rants section in future.</p>
<p>For instance – Wash your hands and face in motorways services as many people do to refresh themselves only to discover that the hot air dryer is a Dyson blade thing that you lower your hands into. Ever tried drying your face using one of those? A direct impact – someone never thought that one through.</p>
<p>Pay and display car parks that charge by the hour until say 9pm. So you arrive after 9pm and want to leave your car overnight (perhaps because you are at a gig and want a beer) knowing that the charges start again at 8am next day. But the machine won’t let you pay in advance even though the current charge period has expired. So you either have to return by 8am or run the risk of getting a penalty ticket. Again – A direct impact.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>I have been spending a lot of time on the road recently so have got through an awful lot of music on the iPod, especially when the Radio reception disappears which is far more frequent than you might think for a modern civilised country. In summary I have been listening to a wide range of music as the mood takes me.</p>
<p>One band I rarely tire of listening and I am sure I have said this before is UFO. Worked through an awful lot of their albums recently and I love that band. I don’t really mind which incarnation it is, and there have been a few, but Phil Mogg has been the one constant. Phil Mogg is one of my favourite Rock vocalists alongside Paul Rogers, Ronnie James Dio, Ozzy and Biff Byford and he is certainly capable of penning some memorable melodies. So from the first album with Mick Bolton on guitar to the latest Vinnie Moore output it’s all good. Mention should go here to founder member Bassist Pete Way who although no longer with the band was I believe a major factor in their initial success and has recently had a heart problem. Get well soon Pete. Looking forward to your forthcoming biography</p>
<p><u>Recommended: UFO – Strangers in the Night – Live</u></p>
<p>So until next time Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1110/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1110/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1110&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/43446722016-08-27T10:30:17+01:002017-01-14T00:19:07+00:00Do you really like Rock Music? Essential CD<p>So you say you like Rock music, but do you really? If you do then the Clan’s latest CD will be an essential must have purchase for your Music collection.</p>
<p>Called Second Helpings it is a Live version of the original “Pies, Pasties & Rock ‘n’ Roll” album that kicked everything off back in 2010. Compiled from Recordings made at the Beston Greyhound since then this CD is quite simply a band doing what it does best, Taking the original songs into a live environment and having fun with them. All three members contribute their own ideas whch whilst keeping the tracks to their original themes adds so much more to the delivery.</p>
<p>A no frills, no overdubs (none necessary) recording that proves the Clan are one of the tightest, Good time Feel good Bands on the circuit today as anyone who has seen them live will affirm.Buy the album and check them out at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/shop" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com/shop</a></p>
<p>Tracks Included: Rock for you, The Few, Night Ride, Home of the Devil, Waxworks, Day to Day, The Key, Heard it all before, Someone Else, Rock & Roll (It’s in my blood), Give it all up.</p>
<p><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/front-cover.jpg?w=213&h=211" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Front cover" height="211" width="213" /></p>
<p>Remember Rock ‘n ‘ Roll was never meant to be taken seriously however</p>
<p>When the World Needs Rock – The Clan!</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1075/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1075/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1075&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/43127892016-08-06T11:18:50+01:002017-01-14T00:19:07+00:00Cambridge Rock festival – You rocked for us! (Summary – Setlist and personal thoughts)<p>Well I have just about come down from what was probably my best gig experience ever.</p>
<p>Yes – The Clan at Cambridge Rock Festival last Thursday evening.</p>
<p>Brilliantly organised and a stage large enough to accommodate my full amp set up for once.</p>
<p>We went on at 6:30 pm following a great build up intro by Sue Marchant from BBC radio Cambridge and the place rocked from the start.</p>
<p>Usual Opener “Rock for you” was followed by “Night Ride”, both well received and then given we were on the Blues Stage we threw in “Walking by Myself” , the old Jimmy Rogers blues tune which was brought to public attention by Gary Moore.</p>
<p>“Heard it all before” followed and then especially for our good friend Simon Berry and his wife Vicky it was our song about life “Day to Day”.</p>
<p>Another cover – ZZ Top’s “Sharp dressed Man” had everyone singing along and people stomping at the front. New song “Tear us apart” grooved along nicely like an old favourite and “Rock ‘n’ Roll (it’s in my blood)” had more singing from the audience.”The Few” was the penultimate track before closing the set with “The Sultans Shadow” our version of Dire Strait’s Sultans of swing segued into Rory Gallagher’s Shadow Play and back again. It’s a good one to finish with as it can be extended or shortened as required.</p>
<p>Anyway not wanting to bore people with too much self-indulgent guitar soloing I ended it at 7:24 – 6 minutes ahead of schedule which I figured was ok.</p>
<p>How wrong was I? The crowd loved it, screamed for more and we were told we could fit in another quick one so eternal rocker “Born to Be Wild” was delivered and once again had the large crowd in good voice. Then it was all over and we left the stage to rapturous applause.</p>
<p>A Fantastic storming gig! But it didn’t end there, after signing “Second helpings” CDs at the merch stall for people we were able to relax and watch Atomic Rooster and Pure Floyd over a few beers.</p>
<p>All evening people were coming up and saying how much they enjoyed our set, this continued right through Friday as well. Quite a few folks had seen us there in 2011 and others had seen us in various places around the country. Some like Simon were there specifically to see us which was nice. We even bumped into a couple (apologies, didn’t catch their names) who used to watch us at the Queens in Accrington, another venue now sadly closed.</p>
<p>It wasn’t just the festival goers either, the stage crew, Sue Marchant and a lot of others involved were saying how good it was. Jim, Steve and I really appreciate the comments and feedback. Thanks to Mary for operating the Merchandise Stall, yes we have Clan T-shirts and keychain Bottle openers in addition to CDs now.</p>
<p>It was great to meet up with old friends and meet new ones.</p>
<p>Martin Smith, sorry you couldn’t make it but hope all ok. Family does come first, keep me updated. Mark Taylor, hope you are feeling better and well enough to enjoy the rest of the festival, and Keith Thompson appreciate your difficult decision to give it a miss but have to say you missed a cracker, catch you soon.</p>
<p>So basically it couldn’t have gone better, we had a great time, everyone else had a great time that is quite simply what is all about what more do you want?</p>
<p>Seconds Helpings? More please.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1039/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1039/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1039&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/42902532016-07-22T15:28:22+01:002019-12-16T07:22:02+00:00Cambridge Rock, Burnley, Darker My Horizon and T-shirts?<p>Time marches on, hard to believe that over the half of the year has been and gone already.</p>
<p>So what is in store for the Clan in the next few weeks – Well nothing this week actually (through choice) but next up is a return to the Talbot in Burnley. A long established and rather excellent live music venue. The following week we return to Rock at the also rather excellent Cambridge Rock Festival in the company of Carl Palmer and Focus amongst others.</p>
<p><strong><u>Friday 29<sup>th</sup> July</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Talbot</strong></p>
<p>Church Street</p>
<p>Burnley</p>
<p><strong><u>Thursday 4<sup>th</sup> August</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Cambridge Rock Festival</strong></p>
<p>Haggis Farm Polo field</p>
<p>Cambridge</p>
<p>Clan on Stage 2 – 6:30pm</p>
<p>Last week we returned to the Griffin in Earlestown and it was a good one. I think I mentioned previously it can be a bit hit and miss in there but last week was a hit. Band on top form, a hot night, good crowd and a crackin’ set. We return in November with the promise of more next year.</p>
<p>Getting slightly paranoid now as stopped again by the police on the way home, second week running, this time it was because the car was full of “stuff”. Anyway, they were satisfied that nothing was untoward and I made my way home to a well-deserved chilled bottle of dog from the fridge and a Ginster’s Pasty. Rock & Roll at its best.</p>
<p>Finally some progress has been made on T-shirts this week, thanks to our producer Russ Cottier, hopefully have them ready for Cambridge along with a large stack of the “Second Helpings” CD.</p>
<p>Speaking of progress, I recently had cause to check out my information videos on YouTube and was amazed to see that the top viewings are 314,000 (effects boards & loopers), 290,000 (Amps – Valve versus Solid state) and 136,000 (Amps – Marshall 100W SLP versus JCM800 100W). I never expected figures like that. Perhaps I am helping a few people and providing a useful service? I think I should consider doing a few more. I only really heard about the Vlogger phenomena and can’t believe that some of these people are now doing live tours based on the fact that they just talk about stuff to a webcam and have millions of subscribers?</p>
<p>The weather has finally improved but for how long. Long enough for me to attack the lawns with a mower which they seriously needed. Not great even now but certainly better.</p>
<p>Needless to say as soon as the sun did come out so did the flying ants and I am also sure I was bitten several times whilst mowing the lawn by various small insects. Isn’t nature wonderful haha. Well I guess every creature has a purpose.</p>
<p>Certainly has according to Professor Brian Cox who seems to be a constant fixture on BBC at the moment.</p>
<p>MOT time again for the car at the end of this month, I will need a couple of new tyres but hopefully nothing else major. 188,000 miles so it hasn’t done too badly really. I am not the best person when it comes to looking after material things, I believe in using them. Never understood why some people try to avoid long journeys or using their cars because it puts miles on them. Just use it that is what it is for. And yes it will get banged by other people’s car doors in car parks and stone chips will hit the paintwork and windscreen thrown up from the road. Just happens, get over it.</p>
<p>Oops straying into rant land there.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Pokemon Go – what a load of rubbish. Ok, if you are a kid I can see it has some interest but adults, really? I have no doubt that in future people pointing cameras at us on stage will not all be taking photos, some will be looking for digitally produced monsters!</p>
<p>Speaking of mobile phones I have mentioned this before but I still get annoyed at the people who have no visible sign of a phone and just seem to be walking around talking to themselves due to hidden mics, Bluetooth etc. They generally seem to be the kind of people who think they are more important than others, well I’m sorry but generally they are not and they just look stupid. Also they are pretty ignorant in my opinion as well wandering round thinking everyone should be listening to them without any consideration for what others might be doing.</p>
<p>What is it with people who get to cash tills then decide to look in their bags and coats for money? Do these people have no forethought or anticipation at all? If you are going to buy something you need to pay for it. Unbelievable. Equally as annoying, people who get to food counters and then start looking at what they want only to discover that the restaurant they are in does not serve it.</p>
<p>Take the train and use public transport we are told. Well a one hour car journey for me the other day, I checked and it would have taken two hours on a train with two changes. Plus I would have to get to and from the railway station at each end probably involving a taxi. Not great is it? Not going to happen either.</p>
<p>I wonder if the new Government are still going to continue the North/South High speed rail link. Big waste of money in my book, all to save 30 minutes? Is it really going to encourage people to leave London, I seriously doubt it. Not when they have their Oyster cards, Uber cars and a whole bunch of other stuff that no-one outside London knows (or cares) about.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>This week I sat and wondered if I really do like Rock music? It feels to me that I actually dislike more of what I hear on rock radio than I like. Is this just an age thing, am I stuck in my particular time period believing it to be the best for Rock (quite possibly) or actually was it the best?</p>
<p>Depends on the individual I guess and probably their age.</p>
<p>Whatever the reason I do consider myself very fortunate to have seen many bands in their prime, most of whom are now classed as legendary: Sabbath, Lizzy, Rush, Rainbow, UFO, AC/DC, Scorpions, Judas Priest, Blue Oyster Cult, Rory Gallager, Kiss, Motorhead and many more. Most them still playing now of course albeit with line-up changes.</p>
<p>Because of this it is difficult for me to place “newer” bands such as Foo Fighters, Muse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sterephonics, Green Day and the like in the same league although they probably are in reality.</p>
<p>As for the next big things – well over the years certain bands have been pushed by the rock media and I am sure this trend will continue but certainly The Answer, Airborne, White Wizard, Toseland, Tracer, Current media favourites – Inglorious, Rival sons and Black Stone Cherry don’t seem to be offering anything different to that which many other rock bands are doing.</p>
<p>Personally I find my friend Paul Stead’s band “The Darker My Horizon” much more original and palatable and quite rightly they are picking up a good following. Rock bands like Jupiter Falls, Savage Outlaw and Stormzone sound just as good to me as any of the “favoured” ones.</p>
<p>So yes musical taste is up to the individual and long may it remain so. Don’t just go by what the media tells you, use your own ears.</p>
<p>Until next time check out The new Darker My Horizon Album “No Superhero” Released today -July 22<sup>nd</sup>.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1029/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1029/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1029&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/42729552016-07-11T12:54:47+01:002017-01-14T00:19:07+00:00Delivere Fakefest, Witton Chimes and Blackmore<p>Well some of you may have received an update last week but most of you won’t have due to me being on a last minute break for a week.</p>
<p>Gig news this week is</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday July 16th </u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Griffin</strong></p>
<p>Earlestown/Newton Le Willows</p>
<p>A staple of the live circuit we have had some good gigs in The Griffin and some mediocre, just depends who is there really. Let’s hope it’s a good one.</p>
<p>Last weekend saw us gigging twice on Saturday.</p>
<p>First off – we were at Fakefest in Birkenhead Park. We were the third band on at just after 3:00 so the audience was still building up. Having said that we played well, it sounded good to us and we got a good response from all there. It was a well organised event, a shame the weather didn’t help. It was pretty warm in the Marquee though.</p>
<p>Yep – a good gig.</p>
<p>Then it was pretty much straight off to the Witton Chimes in Northwich. We have there played many times so they are more open to a few more Clan originals in a two hour set. I was a bit concerned about having to use their in house PA (we feed our mixer into it) and it turned out I was right to have reservations. We had to stop pretty much straight away after starting the first track due to a feedback howl which never happened at the sound check .Anyway once we twiddled a few more knobs we resumed and actually it sounded great for the rest of the night once the nerves had settled down (I am always anxious about the sound once it has gone wrong).</p>
<p>The promoter was happy so we will be back there next year I am sure</p>
<p>News since the last update? Well fellow Ritchie fan Keith and I made the trek down the M6 to the NEC (or whatever it is called these days) to see a certain Mr Blackmore who was coming out to play. Being described as a Rainbow gig seemed a bit daft to me as it was basically always going to be a Ritchie Blackmore gig as far as I was concerned. However it is obviously easier to merchandise a brand like Rainbow judging by the abundance of T-shirts in evidence.</p>
<p>We both bumped into a few people we knew at the bar of course which was good and then like everyone else who also seemed to have ignored Mostly Autumn’s support slot we entered the arena at just after 8:30.</p>
<p>So what did we get? Well we got a 71 year old Ritchie Blackmore delivering a masterclass in taste, tone and rock guitar playing. The set list is detailed elsewhere and there are also hundreds of hours of phone camera video footage on YouTube etc. but no matter it is never the same as being there.</p>
<p>Purple and Rainbow classics delivered with professionalism over two hours by a good band and an excellent vocalist who managed to cover songs by 3 previous Rainbow vocalists and 2 Deep Purple vocalists with amazing ease. I was asked a few month ago by a friend, who should know better, whether Blackmore is still relevant? Well if you have any genuine interest in rock guitar I (and thousands of others) can tell you that he most definitely is. Like David Gilmour, Mark Knopfler and others it shows you don’t have to have your gain/distortion up to the max or play at a million notes an hour using both hands to get some extra ones in.</p>
<p>So our next “big event” is appearing at Cambridge Rock Festival in August of course. I expect t-shirts to be available by then. Eternal Optimist.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>So we have now had the EU referendum and a whole can of worms has been opened?</p>
<p>The debates continue at home and throughout Europe and the rest of the world. Not sure anyone really knows what is going to happen next.</p>
<p>Well despite all their warnings my virgin.net and virginmedia.com emails are still operating however in case they do suddenly cease as indicated please use <a href="mailto:TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk">TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk</a> from now on.</p>
<p>A week away has seen the grass and weeds thriving no a job to be done there. Just need some sun now so I can do it.</p>
<p>Groups of people behind you in a queue and some of them grab seats so that there is nowhere to sit when you have bought your coffee/food. A good hint, take a cheap book and a cheap pair of sunglasses and dump them on a table before getting in the queue if on your own. Should stop people pinching the seat.</p>
<p>Arrived back at Manchester airport, several escalators out of order. Welcome to the UK folks. A great first impression.</p>
<p>People these days want everything for nothing. Fakefest being an example. The organisers of this (and other such events) are taking a gamble. They have to pay for the venue (in this case paying the council for use of some of the park), provide the marquee, sound system, light system, security, toilets, advertising, ticket printing and distribution , headline bands, etc. etc. yes they will get some money back by selling concessions (bar, burger vans etc.), merchandise but basically they rely on ticket sales. If they sell X tickets they break even X+ Y = profit. Less than X means a loss. Quite obvious and simple really.</p>
<p>So is £20 for 8 bands over 10-11 hours expensive? What does a two hour football match cost? What does it cost to see a major artist for two hours? Not for me to say but it is up to everyone to make their own minds up how and where they spend their money. But come on – Is it free?</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>All sorts this week, everything from Van Halen, Sheryl Crow, David Gilmour, stereophonics and Saxon.</p>
<p>Anyway time to go – So much to do and so little time.</p>
<p>So until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1021/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1021/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1021&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/42469532016-06-24T14:21:33+01:002022-01-13T10:35:40+00:00Mr Blackmore,Scorpions and Morecambe<p>Hi All,</p>
<p>Well an interesting week or so.</p>
<p>Last time I wrote we had two eagerly anticipated gigs – West Kirby and Morecambe.</p>
<p>West Kirby Tap was ok, nice to see a number of friends there but it was still a little thin on the ground, we probably have the First England match of Euro 2016 to blame that one on. We played as late as possible in the hope that the audience numbers may have grown but as we had to finish at 11:00 it was a 9:30 start and we played right through.</p>
<p>We played quite well actually and apart from some girls asking us to “play something we like” – err am I a mind reader it went ok. Actually “Summer of 69” and “I want to break free” seemed to satisfy them as they are generally crowd pleasers. I guess they really would have preferred us to carry on and play Mustang Sally and Brown Eyed girl as well but come on – we are a rock band at the end of the day.</p>
<p>We were also rather pushed to take our gear out afterwards ending up with most of it on the pavement whilst we loaded our cars only for the bar staff to lock up and disappear. Now as I have said before we normally take 45-60 minutes to take all our equipment down and load up the transport that is just how long it takes. So we weren’t too happy about this one. It was not even midnight on a Saturday night and the bar over the road was still in full swing (not sure how they got round the music curfew?) Still it is up to us how we deal with this kind of thing and the upshot here is that we won’t be pushing for another gig there. We have played there three times and that is probably enough.</p>
<p>Next up was the Bath in Morecambe last Saturday, one of our favourite venues and we were looking forward to playing there again. Unfortunately we received information in the morning that it was being cancelled due to the landlady having a family crisis and having to close the pub for a few days.</p>
<p>Fair enough and hope it all gets sorted out. So – rescheduling required once it is sorted out and an unexpected night off for us. Not much we could do about it really. We could have chased around to see if any bands had cancelled elsewhere but we really don’t need that and it doesn’t really do you any good in the long term.</p>
<p>All this means of course that the next gigs we do are on July 9<sup>th</sup>. Two in one day</p>
<p>Afternoon appearance at Fakefest – Birkenhead Park, the rather precise onstage time of 3:07 until 3:48. Looking forward to this one.</p>
<p>Then in the evening we are back at another favourite venue the Witton Chimes in Northwich.</p>
<p>Between now and then, well we need to work out a set list to fit into the 41 minutes at Fakefest. Expecting it to be a mixed crowd so suspect a set of Clan originals is not the way to go. A mix of Originals and Crowd pleasers I think. Doubt we will get more than 10 tracks in if that.</p>
<p>Here are some articles again about <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html">Fakefest</a> , <a href="http://www.thebuz.co.uk/">Buz</a> , <a href="http://www.wirralglobe.co.uk/leisure/local_leisure/14483097.PREVIEW__Support_acts_for_Birkenhead_Park_Fake_Festival_revealed/">Wirral Globe</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fakefestivals/photos/pcb.1011705438924114/10154221965041133/?type=3&theater">Love wirral</a>.</p>
<p>Once again still no progress on the T-shirt. I am determined to have T-shirts for when we appear at Cambridge Rock Festival in August.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>The EU referendum continues to dominate the news alongside the football. I have almost stopped watching because of both things. Hopefully now it is decided we can all move on.</p>
<p>***Ok mentioning this one again as it is important</p>
<p>My virgin.net and virginmedia.com emails will now longer work after June.</p>
<p>So to contact The Clan, please use <a href="mailto:TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk">TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk</a> from now on.</p>
<p>This will go through to our management mailbox.</p>
<p>This applies to many things but it happened to me when I had to call the council last week. The automated telephone answering system told me I was fourth in the queue and that I would expect to have to wait 5 minutes. 20 minutes later I spoke to someone who answered my query in about 30 seconds. Drives you mad.</p>
<p>The tax man was the same, finally got through to someone who told me I should to fill in an on line form, which was not available of course “due to maintenance”.</p>
<p>Exactly how much time in our lives do we spend waiting on phones to speak to someone?</p>
<p>The internet is equally frustrating at times as well of course.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Finished reading the Scorpions book “Wind of Change”. Not a bad read for fans of the band, which I am of course. Some interesting insights into their thoughts over the years. Been listening to some of the lesser listened to albums again with fresh ears although I haven’t really changed my thinking. When you have produced as many albums as they have there are bound to be a few duff tracks amongst them but they are far outweighed by the quality ones. Live – I have seen them many times and every show has been 100% on their part.</p>
<p>This Saturday of course is the one I have been looking forward to – Ritchie Blackmore in Birmingham. He played the first 2 of the 3 gigs last weekend and I have been trying to avoid reviews etc. Not totally succeeded but hey I am taking those with a pinch of salt as you can’t rely on anything with Ritchie anyway, no two nights are ever the same. I am simply looking forward to seeing and hearing the man in black play some rock again after 20 years. Yep I have seen him several times since (With Blackmore’s Night) but as good as he is on the acoustic I, like everyone else, just want to hear him crank out some riffs and solos on his Stratocaster. From Photos I have seen the stage set looks a bit sparse (no 4*12 Cabs!!!) But as long as it sounds ok I will live with that.</p>
<p>Yes we will have to sit through Mostly Autumn first – not a huge fan but if we must. It’s not that they are bad but if we have to have a support perhaps an up and coming rock band might have been more appropriate. No I don’t mean the Clan (then again why not?) I was thinking more of Inglorious or Walkway.</p>
<p>The Rainbow live in Boston ’81 CD arrived, the one I couldn’t remember last time. Not brilliant but not bad. Keyboard seems high in the mix too many times for me and at times I wonder if Ritchie was actually there but JLT sings really well and the guitar solo in Catch The rainbow is a good one. Also a nice noisy Blackmore solo spot which always works for me. Not sure if they were the support band (or co headliner) at this gig but the whole thing clocks in at under an hour and a quarter. If they were headlining that is a bit of a short set unless some tracks have been omitted?</p>
<p>So recommended listening this week – well pretty much anything by Mr Blackmore from his Deep Purple and Rainbow days. Probably best to avoid Fireball, House of Blue light or Battle Rages on if Deep Purple are your thing. Not a big fan of Rainbow’s Straight between the eyes either but you can’t really go wrong with any of the others.</p>
<p>Anyway time to go – I have a feeling I am not in Kansas anymore</p>
<p>So until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1008/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/1008/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=1008&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/42183152016-06-07T20:04:58+01:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00West Kirby, Second Helpings, Jam nights and Scorpions<p>Hi All, apologies for the radio silence, nearly a month since my last update.</p>
<p>So first off here we go</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 11<sup>th</sup> June</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The West Kirby Tap</strong></p>
<p>Grange Road</p>
<p>West Kirby</p>
<p>***Start 9:00 pm – Must finish 11:00pm</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 18<sup>th</sup> June</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Bath</strong></p>
<p>Northumberland Street</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p>Both of these have been good venues for us previously and West Kirby is local so hopefully a few friends will turn out as well. The Bath also has good friends of ours even though it is some distance away.</p>
<p>Being cynical I could say Come out have a good time and feel good with us on Saturday at the West Kirby Tap with or if you prefer stay in and watch the England Match ha-ha. Yes it does clash slightly with our gig but let’s face it you know which will be the most fun.</p>
<p>Since my last contact we have played Leigh, Leeds and Shotton. All good gigs, Leeds was a new venue for us (Cross Keys) and turned out to be an excellent one as it happened. Three bands, all slightly different but a great venue, landlord and crowd. We will be trying to get back on there.</p>
<p>Still no progress on the DVD or the T-shirt.</p>
<p>However I am pleased to announce that “Second Helpings” CD has been completed and will now be available at gigs. Essentially it is a compilation of tracks from the previous two live albums sequenced to provide a complete live version of “Pies, Pasties & Rock ‘n’ Roll”.</p>
<p>So if you have “100% Live” and “This is a thing called…” you already have the tracks. It is really to complete the Pies Pasties phase of the band and perhaps introduce that album to new fans, we will not be releasing any more versions of those tracks in the foreseeable future. We will play them live of course but for track releases we now intend to concentrate on new tracks and the new album.</p>
<p>The local Press is continuing to build up the forthcoming Fakefest in July. All the local music magazines, <a href="http://www.thebuz.co.uk/">Buz</a> , <a href="http://www.wirralglobe.co.uk/leisure/local_leisure/14483097.PREVIEW__Support_acts_for_Birkenhead_Park_Fake_Festival_revealed/">Wirral Globe</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fakefestivals/photos/pcb.1011705438924114/10154221965041133/?type=3&theater">Love wirral</a> have articles about the <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html">Fakefest</a><u>.</u></p>
<p>On the personal side my weight was down again last week so I am quite happy with the current direction it is taking. Still a month until Fakefest which I am using as a target to reach a specific milestone. You have to have goals in life.</p>
<p>The Kitchen at home is now finished so I can start eating again, if I can find a pan that works on the hob. It turns out that Induction hobs need specific types of pan and some of mine don’t comply. Learn something new every day. Another hidden expense, new pans.</p>
<p>Speaking of pans I spent three hours in hell over the weekend or should I call it by its Swedish name of Ikea. Not been for years and it is a lot larger than I remember, I never thought I was going to get out. They have even included a coffee bar half way round for those who need a break from shuffling past Billy Bookcases, Malm drawers and Peong chairs. To be fair it was not as busy as I remember either but that may have been due to the brilliant sunshine outside causing most sensible people to be outside.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>I haven’t been to any for a while but over the last couple of weeks I checked out a few Jam nights. They are strange evenings really. They don’t seem to be what their name suggests anymore unless it is just the way I think. To me the word Jamming means getting up with musicians you don’t normally play with, perhaps on instruments you don’t normally play and tackling songs you don’t normally play.</p>
<p>This does not seem to be the reality.</p>
<p>You now get whole bands turning up and playing some of their normal repertoire (we have been guilty of this to be fair) as an audition or some individuals who appear from god knows where every week or every jam night and play the same songs. Blues also seems to be a favourite, (yawn.)</p>
<p>It all gets a bit boring to be honest although I suppose as they are usually mid-week it is a chance for a beer and some form of live music.</p>
<p>What really annoys me though are the people who appear, do their ten minutes on stage where they expect everyone to watch and then disappear. I think that is not only unfair on the other musicians but basically rude and ignorant. Most of these nights only last 2-3 hours so it is not a huge commitment really.</p>
<p>Oh and another new trend is for guitarists to not only bring their own guitars (ok I get that) but now they have started bringing their own amplifiers! Come on, totally unnecessary.</p>
<p>Anyone running a jam night should be providing drums, bass amp and probably two guitar amps as a minimum in my opinion. Nothing fancy just basic stuff.</p>
<p>Right I have warmed up now -another trend I don’t like. Leo Fender, Les Paul, Paul Reed Smith plus plenty of others put a lot of thought into the design of their guitars so that not only do they sound good and play well but also to make them visually appealing, almost as pieces of art. So why people want to ruin that visual appeal by clamping “Satnav” style devices (tuners) to them I really do not know. There are a plethora of pedal based tuners available none of which interfere with the visual appeal of a Strat or a Les Paul etc. C’mon guys being on a stage is as much about presentation as well as sound. While you are at it ditch the music stands.</p>
<p>Half-term – Now I don’t have any kids so I am never aware of this but it seems to me that almost every week is “half term”. Does I really only happen every 6-7 weeks, seems a lot more to me. Either that or a lot of kids are sagging off.</p>
<p>The EU referendum looms ever closer. Still no idea which way to go myself. Seem to receive conflicting information on a daily basis. United we stand, safety in numbers, hmm, still to be convinced one way or the other.</p>
<p><strong>****</strong>Now this one is important – That Nice Mr Branson has informed me that the virgin.net and virginmedia.com email will now longer work after June. So having had those as email addresses forever I now have to change to something else.</p>
<p>So to contact The Clan, please use <a href="mailto:TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk">TheClan@honeybeet.co.uk</a> from now on.</p>
<p>This will go through to our management mailbox.</p>
<p>It’s not just a case of obtaining a new mailbox though it is letting everyone you regularly deal with know and having to change it on many sites you use Amazon, ITunes, EBay, Banks, Insurance companies, loyalty schemes etc. Etc. A very long list. Thanks for nothing Branson.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Last time I was discussing Bryan Adams and I did buy his latest album. What a rip off. Good songs but only nine originals and most last less than three minutes. All in I think there was 24 minutes of music. You then get four of the tracks played again as acoustic versions (why?) Very disappointing, probably the shortest album I have ever owned and not cheap either.</p>
<p>Received a Book about the Scorpions yesterday, Wind of Change. Details them recording all their albums from the start. Working through it, seems a good read although some of the translation (from German I assume) is a bit strange and needs a bit of thought, as always with such books it makes you want to listen to the songs as they are describing them. Currently reached as far as the end of the Uli Jon Roth period so it was Taken by Force and Tokyo Tapes in the car.</p>
<p>My next big thing of course is seeing Ritchie Blackmore on June 25<sup>th</sup> – Looking forward to that one. 20 years since he did a rock set and I saw him doing it at he Hammersmith Odeon. Very good it was too. I am expecting a best of Rainbow & Deep Purple from the master himself, nothing wrong with that. Long Live Rock & Roll indeed.</p>
<p>I am still awaiting another Rainbow CD actually – so long since I ordered it can’t remember what it actually is. I think it was the first live tour with Joe Lynne Turner on Vocals so either just before Difficult to cure or just after it. I think it has Catch the rainbow on it which I don’t think I have ever heard JLT do. We will see when it drops through the door at some point.</p>
<p>Recommended this week – Well obviously it has to be</p>
<p>The Clan – Second Helpings (Pies, Pasties & Rock ‘n’ Roll – Live).</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/992/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/992/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=992&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/41686332016-05-06T12:43:08+01:002022-05-24T13:58:47+01:00Muskets, Music & Musings<p>Will wonders never cease, two updates in two weeks?</p>
<p>Well the real reason for the quick follow up to the last one is to let you know where we are on Saturday of course.</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 7<sup>th</sup> May</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Musketeer</strong></p>
<p>15 Lord St,</p>
<p>Leigh</p>
<p>WN7 1AB</p>
<p>It is usually busy in the Musketeer although its location makes it a transitory venue as people move around town there is normally a good appreciative crowd throughout the evening and we have made quite a few friends in there so looking forward to seeing them again. Who knows we may even locate our lost drum mics which went AWOL after our last appearance there. We have replaced them anyway. Not blaming the venue for this by the way, we did call them the day after and we had looked around as usual before we left.</p>
<p>No progress on the DVD sound correction, wondering if it might be easier to just use some of the footage to back an existing track? No rush.</p>
<p>Similar story with the T-shirt. Looks like I am going to just have another go at this myself.</p>
<p>The Work on the Second Helpings album tracks is complete, just need to produce some Cover and CD artwork and then have it pressed up. Target is to have them in my hands before the end of May.</p>
<p>No further information relating to the Leeds gig on May 15<sup>th</sup>. I believe another band on is called Closer but the only reference I can find to a band of that name is an Italian rock band? Hopefully more details next week.</p>
<p>Last weekend was a long weekend of course, personally didn’t take advantage at all as busy in the house. Hoping the next one at the end of the month might provide a bit more fun.</p>
<p>The local Wirral music magazine <a href="http://www.thebuz.co.uk/">Buz</a> has an article about the <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html">Fakefest</a> this month (May), we get a nice mention. Pages 28-29 I think for those interested.</p>
<p>Was it a coincidence that a local pub tried to book us this week having ignored us for years? It’s not one we really want to play anyway plus we are pretty much fully booked this year so I politely thanked them for their interest and declined. Funny though how even a small amount of publicity suddenly creates interest. Just a shame it wasn’t one of the local places we would play.</p>
<p>Last week I mentioned that I hadn’t heard much about other issues in Europe apart from immigration. In response I received a long email from an old school friend JP Roberts providing many issues to ponder. So thanks for that JP, nice to hear from you by the way.</p>
<p>My weight was down last week and remained the same this week. It is taking much longer than hoped. Has dropped a fair amount since the picture at the start of January gave me another kick-start although my eating has been a bit chaotic recently. The good news is that the new kitchen is now operational (not yet complete) so should be able to regain some control of my food intake. Two months until Fakefest so that is a good target.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>As you all know I am not a football fan, I do watch the occasional live game on TV every now and again if I can’t find anything else to do but that is really as far as it goes. Even then I tend to give up by half time due to the inane prattling by the commentators and waffle from the Pundits.</p>
<p>I do find it somewhat odd however that people seem to be surprised that Leicester finished the season at the top of the premier league. Now I may be missing something here but my understanding is that this is achieved by winning more games than anyone else. This process takes about 9 months if not more so presumably fore the last 9 months Leicester have been winning matches regularly and consistently hence putting them in contention. I am at a loss therefore as to why it is “unexpected”.</p>
<p>Nice to see someone else win for a change though.</p>
<p>What is it with Café’s that finish breakfast at 9:00am? Come on, surely 9:30 is the minimum for this. How to lose business easily.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Spent most of the week listening to the tracks for the Second Helpings album, sequenced to be in the same order as Pies, Pasties & Rock ‘n’ Roll it is all sounding pretty good to me. Sometimes I wonder if the songs are any good as they are not exactly concertos or symphonies just simple rock songs and with three of us they are probably even simpler than the ones produced by a lot of other bands. But you know what, sometimes simplicity is better, catchy choruses you can singalong to and some good riffs. Sometime you just got to go with your gut instinct and stick to your guns.</p>
<p>Had a listen to the Pirates “Out of their skulls” which I haven’t listened to for a while. Great album, saw them live when this came out – Liverpool University and the legendary Mick Green on guitar was excellent. Sadly no longer with us.</p>
<p>Another rare listen was Bryan Adams – Room Service album (2004?) Not often mentioned but actually as with all Bryan Adam’s material every song could be a hit single. Just checked and he released an album last year, might invest in it this week. I notice it has 9 tracks plus acoustic versions of 4 of them, hmm not sure about that, bit of a cop out if you ask me.</p>
<p>I’ll let you know.</p>
<p>Oh just in – Our good friends The Darker My Horizon have signed with Broken Road records for the release of their second album. I am not sure but I think Broken Road records is Jupiter Fall’s record label. Good stuff.</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/980/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/980/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=980&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/41563332016-04-27T21:22:45+01:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00Miscellaneous ramblings and waffle of an aging Rocker<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>No gigs this week so this will either be a short update or a long rambling one, ha-ha taking bets now.</p>
<p>If it does ramble on I will put in a contents list</p>
<p>I guess the first item to report on is our recent return to the Railway – Chorley. The place was quite full when we arrived but of course it was for some football or other sporty event on the TV. Needless to say as soon as whatever it was finished quite a few people departed.</p>
<p>Having said that it wasn’t empty and a few friends had travelled to see us, Brian and Linda, Nick, Mary plus a few others who we know from having played there before.</p>
<p>It was quite a relaxed gig and very enjoyable, the people who were there thoroughly enjoyed it, Lyndsey who booked us was happy and everyone was smiling, can’t ask for more.</p>
<p>We will be back and hopefully word will spread that we are a band worth turning up to see. The gear all worked and it was nice to have Jim back behind his own kit again.</p>
<p>We played our new song “Tear us Apart” with no major mistakes and it seemed to be well received.</p>
<p>Right, what else? Well I have had no time to look at editing the sound on the DVD so that is outstanding. I gave it another viewing and really whilst the guitar is very much to the fore, thankfully no major mistakes, the drums are lacking in punch (are there any cymbals?) and the bass is non -existent. It really doesn’t sound like the band and any public posting would not do us justice in its present form which is disappointing. I am however now starting to get my little home studio back together after some major disruption in the house so things will start happening soon if I can find everything.</p>
<p>Still no movement on a T-Shirt though, this continues to be a major source of frustration to me and I am determined to have it sorted before we play <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html">Fakefest</a> in July.</p>
<p>Our producer Russ Cottier wearing another of his hats has come close to what is required but it still doesn’t totally fit in with my vision at the moment. He may be able to make some minor changes which is all it needs to get there but I probably need to work with him whilst he does.</p>
<p>There is also going to be a compilation CD from the two live albums, basically putting the best versions we have of the tracks in the correct order to produce a complete live version of Pies, Pasties and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Tentatively entitled “Second Helpings – Pies, Pasties & Rock ‘n’ Roll Live” the intention is that this will only be available in physical format from gigs or via mail order. It will also bring to a close the release of any more versions of tracks from Pies & Pasties for the foreseeable future as we are now focussing on new material and the next studio album. We will still play some of the older songs live of course.</p>
<p>Big news for us since the last update is that we have secured the main support slot for the Wishbone Ash gig at the Buckley Tivoli on Nov 5<sup>th</sup>. I’ve seen Wishbone Ash a few times and they are often quoted as being pioneers of the twin lead guitar sound influencing the likes of Thin Lizzy. They have some great classic songs and yet they continue to write, create and perform new material alongside them which I think is admirable.</p>
<p>I understand that audiences want the classics but a couple of new numbers should be able to be tolerated in a set and who knows they may just be classics of the future.</p>
<p>As you may remember we played a gig recently with the excellent Jupiter Falls. Through them we have secured a booking in Leeds on Sunday May 15<sup>th,</sup> The Cross keys in Morley, new one for us. We are playing with a band called Closer I believe, only a fifty minute set. It’s good for bands to help each other out. Most musicians I have met are like that although as in all walks of life there are a handful who I wouldn’t bother with again.</p>
<p>Outside the music, life has been disrupted somewhat recently as I alluded to before. Some major structural changes in the house have meant that everything has been packed away and moved around (several times) and basically I feel like I have had plaster dust, sawdust and rubble everywhere for weeks. No cooker etc. so its playing havoc with the eating regime, so far still avoided putting weight on though amazingly. See how this week goes.</p>
<p>To be honest, the builder has been brilliant and made it as easy and comfortable as possible, most definitely not one of the cowboy variety.</p>
<p>Still about another month of internal work (Kitchen fitting, tiling, decorating etc.) to go I reckon, possibly sooner but it’s getting there and hopefully it will all worthwhile in the end.</p>
<p>Well this is what I keep telling myself.</p>
<p>Had the joy of having to have the car fixed last week, new starter motor. That is the second time in this car, seems a bit odd. I suspect the first replacement was either faulty (reconditioned?) or not fitted properly as I didn’t go to my normal garage. I don’t really know anyone who has had a starter motor replaced twice. MOT this week as well. Cars, cost money but can’t really live without them.</p>
<p>Due to the house disruption I haven’t really seen much TV and surprisingly (or perhaps not) it has not bothered me very much at all. It is quite eye opening to find that you can occupy your time in other ways, generally more productive ways it has to be said. Have to say that Catch up/on demand TV is great when you do want to see something. BBC IPlayer definitely better functionality than ITV or C4 though.</p>
<p>The closure of my favourite Sunday morning brunch/breakfast place recently (Scogs) and its subsequent refurbishment and reopening under a new name meant an alternative was required in the interim. The Tee room in West Kirby satisfied the requirements, a slight golf theme as you can tell by the name but it is friendly and the breakfast is definitely recommended. Good quality sausage, bacon etc. and a good home cooked taste to the whole thing.</p>
<p>I have actually tried Scogs again since I started writing this, it is now simply called 34 Banks road after its address – imaginative eh? The food was fine but the refurbishment has completely changed the dynamic of the room in my opinion. A simple cheaply printed piece of paper masqueraded as the menu which I wasn’t impressed with and overall it was disappointing. Unfortunately the prices were nowhere near as cheap as the menu that advertised them. In summary it was 75% more expensive than the tee room and 33% more expensive than when it was Scogs, lacked ambience and atmosphere and whilst the service was ok it didn’t give a welcoming impression. I won’t be rushing back.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>A doctors where you can’t get an appointment for a week. What use is that if you are suffering in pain or have something like appendicitis? My doctor is quite good, if you call at 8am they generally call you back or give you an appointment the same day but many don’t. Is this a result of immigration, I couldn’t say yes to that as I don’t believe there is much where I live; it is probably a result of the increase in longevity which is great but it is stretching the NHS in its current form.</p>
<p>Immigration does seem to be the big issue being bandied around when talking about the EU referendum and I can see that it is up there but surely there are other things which we need to be made aware of as well? Not really hearing anything from anyone.</p>
<p>I always knew that banks tried to make it difficult for you to extract your own money but it seems that these days they don’t make it any easier for you to put money in. Has anyone tried to open a new bank account recently? I know they are trying to reduce money laundering but surely it shouldn’t be as difficult as it is. It is almost like you are supposed to be grateful when they actually deem you worthy enough to have an account with them. Most of them charge now as well of course for the privilege of having free travel insurance, Breakdown recovery etc. How does that work then?</p>
<p>I don’t often buy bottled water as I am quite happy with the tap however recently I bought a six pack and all the bottles had those “Sports Tops”. The ones you pull up. Normally I just unscrew the whole thing but for some reason one was extremely tight so I reverted to the “sport “option. What a load of rubbish. Glug on it like a baby with a dummy, the bottle sucks in and then when you finish it expands again. Nope – don’t get it at all. Note to self – avoid in future</p>
<p>Slightly worryingly my car cut out today and indicated ECP (EPC) and another symbol I didn’t recognise. Restarting everything was fine and they had both gone away? Turns out the other symbol was ESP or EPS or something? I have no idea what either of them mean and really don’t care. What is the point of symbols that no-one understands? Once again, technology for technology’s sake. So cars are more like computers, “have you tried turning it off and on again?”</p>
<p>Let’s hope aircraft aren’t the same.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Well I guess the “big news” is that AC/DC have decided to have Axel Rose replace Brian Johnson on vocals for their tour. At first I thought that was a very odd choice but having seen a video of him singing Whole Lotta Rosie it kind of works aurally, not sure about visually although the clip I saw had Axel confined to a chair with a broken foot? Personally I really don’t care as I am not a great fan of either band, as for the fans of AC/DC or Axel they will vote with their feet as to whether they are up for it or not. Anyone’s guess as to how long it will last, I can’t imagine the Aussie gang pandering to Axel’s well known punctuality issues. They are probably paying him a decent amount for a professional show. Kind of waters down the impact of the Guns & Roses reunion shows a bit as well really.</p>
<p>But that is what happens when people play in too many bands – it dilutes the effect and kind of shows a lack of commitment and loyalty. I appreciate that it’s only music and anyone is entitled to play with whoever they want but I am not sure it works really. To be fair I have tried it myself in the past so I am entitled to my own opinion based on my experience.</p>
<p>Joe Lynn Turner is another one, a great singer, but the last I heard he was in a “new” band called Rated X, I mentioned I bought their album not long ago and now I read he is making a third album with Sunstorm? Never even heard of them, plus he does solo gigs/albums and a whole bunch of other stuff. Chances are they all sound very similar though.</p>
<p>I had a Ritchie Blackmore day the other day – all leading up to the Birmingham show in June. Not only did the Donnington DVD (yes it is the same as the one I already have) and audio CD arrive but also a CD of Rainbow at the Liverpool Empire on Nov 4<sup>th</sup> 1977, another gig I was at. The sound quality is really quite good and the version of Catch the Rainbow lives up to my memory and is simply awesome. Took me right back to some wonderful times and made the hairs on my arms and neck stand up.</p>
<p>I wonder if it will be in the set list on June 25<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/962/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/962/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=962&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/41375972016-04-15T09:41:58+01:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00News Flash – Chorley to Rock this Saturday<p>Right, hands up who watched us on t’internet last Saturday live at The Snooty Fox – Wakefield. Seems like quite a few people did actually which was nice to know. Not sure how it sounded – the DVD which may have been taken from the same feed has some great video but the audio seems to be lacking most of the bass guitar. It sounded fine in the venue itself of course. More of this later</p>
<p>First of all let’s get the Priorities sorted out: This week!</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 16th April</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Railway </strong></p>
<p><strong>20 Steeley Lane</strong></p>
<p><strong>Chorley </strong></p>
<p><strong>Lancs</strong></p>
<p><strong>PR6 0RD</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>We have played a few times at The Railway now and previously it’s been a bit hit and miss in terms of audience numbers. It’s a good rock venue though so we are looking forward to returning.</p>
<p>I have been pushing it on social media etc. this week to see if we can get a few more people in. Can only try can’t you?</p>
<p>As usual at these type of venues it will be a mixed set of originals and covers, hopefully we will play “Tear us Apart” from our album due later this year. We were hoping to debut you it last weekend but it just never happened.</p>
<p>Speaking of last weekend here’s the rundown- Snooty Fox – Wakefield a rather excellent rock venue, fully geared up for live music, In house PA, Lighting rig and even a reasonably decent house drum kit. As mentioned previously multiple cameras for live streaming and recording DVDs. Malcolm who runs it turned out to be a great guy and we will probably be back there later this year. The only surprise for me was that I couldn’t fit my full amp rig in, the combination of the stage width and the low ceiling meant that I could only fit in one 4*12 Cab. Not that anyone other than me cares of course. It’s a guitar player thing.</p>
<p>We were on the bill with two other excellent bands, Jupiter Falls, local band (Leeds) with a dedicated following who were really good. Check out their album “Revolution” and their website <a href="http://www.jupiterfalls.net/">www.jupiterfalls.net</a></p>
<p>Following them were The Darker my Horizon (TDmH). Again, an excellent set by some great guys, although the inclusion of a couple of covers surprised me (and had the internet streaming guys running for the panic button as they can’t broadcast covers due to copyright) given their extensive back catalogue. A new song about a Super hero caught my ear</p>
<p><a href="http://www.thedarkermyhorizon.com/">www.thedarkermyhorizon.com</a></p>
<p>We eventually hit the stage to deliver our Good time Feel good Rock slightly later than anticipated due to the delays in the changeovers, 15 minutes is not enough time really and three bands on one night is perhaps a little ambitious. Once we finally kicked off at approx. 10:00pm all went as normal although I do prefer it when Jim uses his own drums, they somehow just sound the way I have come to expect and sometimes the slightest little change can throw you a bit. The rushed changeover also meant I hadn’t had time to fully recheck my pedal board (which I had tested previously at the soundcheck) so it turned out that I had a dead Wah-Wah during Home of the Devil. Not a big problem but it would have been nice if it had worked.</p>
<p>The time squeeze meant that about four planned numbers were dropped which again was a shame.</p>
<p>So although it was a good night I think we (or at least I, it’s not really for me to speak for Jim & Steve) perhaps felt slightly cheated as we know it could have been even better. It will be next time. If I can find a way to fix the bass sound on the DVD I will be posting some tracks up.<a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>As I have indicated we will probably return however we need to wait and check out what the impact of Malcolm’s new venue, opening at the end of the month, is going to have on this one, it may be that his idea is for people to follow on after the finish end of live bands in the Snooty by moving on to the new club afterwards but I don’t really know.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>It is probably just me but I am not a big fan of swiping screens in order to do things. Tablets. Phones etc. That and having to circle your finger round as well to increase or decrease levels. A simple up or down arrow is my preference. I do feel sometimes that technology is introduced for technology sake not because it really helps improve things.</p>
<p>The electric went off in the house last week, so the cordless landline phones stop of course due to the base unit requiring power. Also you can’t charge your mobile as Electric is off. A useful lesson there, always keep a cheap and cheerful phone handy that can just be plugged into the phone socket. No Electric required.</p>
<p>Every house should also have a wind up radio.</p>
<p>I appreciate that Shop assistants, Doctors receptionists etc. have to balance being friendly with trying to keep people moving and that is fine but some of them don’t grasp this. Waiting five minutes or more whilst they have a major catch-up with someone in the queue is really annoying.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Various Classic rock songs really, I have a playlist on the IPod which goes from A-Z starting with Airborne and ending with ZZ Top. It contains hundreds if not thousands of songs and even though I know I have the tracks on there it is still a surprise to hear some which you perhaps forget about.</p>
<p>REO Speed wagon and Sebastian Bach’s Skid Row were pleasant surprises today.</p>
<p>Personally I am looking forward to hearing Pete Way’s (Ex UFO Bassist) new album “walking on the edge” which is due out this year. Hopefully he will play Liverpool academy on his tour to promote it. He is also publishing a book as well which should be a good read. He hasn’t exactly lived a shy retiring life.</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/946/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/946/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=946&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/41267012016-04-08T12:19:07+01:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00Wakefield, Chorley & Toxic Moth<p>Ok not a lot more to say since last week so here is a reminder</p>
<p>This week it’s a three band line-up</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> April</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Snooty Fox</strong></p>
<p><strong>Wakefield</strong></p>
<p><strong>Yorkshire</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>The Clan + The Darker my Horizon + Jupiter Falls</strong></p>
<p>First up – 7:30 -8:15 – Jupiter Falls. Hailing from Yorkshire , it’s a home gig for them; this band are playing a lot at the moment and have debut album “Revolution” to promote plus they have promised some newer material.</p>
<p>Check them out at <a href="http://www.jupiterfalls.net/">www.jupiterfalls.net</a></p>
<p>Following them 8:30 -9:30 are The Darker my Horizon (TDmH). As I indicated last week, this is the new band formed by Paul Stead and it carries on the same melodic rock tradition as his previous band Sacred Heart with perhaps a more modern sound. I am guessing you will hear tracks from the “Acquiesce” plus some new material with perhaps a couple of Sacred Heart classics for good measure? <a href="http://www.thedarkermyhorizon.com/">www.thedarkermyhorizon.com</a></p>
<p>The Clan will finish off the evening from approx. 9:45 -11:00 with our own brand of Good time Feel good Rock. <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>So, three original rock bands in one night, all slightly different in style but still all very definitely rock, Got to be something to please any rock fan and at the bargain price of £3.00 entry which is the price of a pint(?) you will be hard pressed to get a better line up for the money anywhere this year.</p>
<p>If you can’t make it then pop on to <a href="http://www.snootyfoxlive.com/">http://www.snootyfoxlive.com/</a> on Saturday night and you should theoretically be able to watch it live. Having said that I tried last Saturday and nothing was showing but then again it was a Green Day tribute band scheduled to play and there may have been copyright restrictions?</p>
<p>We will also be recording the event for a DVD and I have no doubt clips will be appearing periodically on The Clan web site/FB pages etc.</p>
<p>Speaking of the Clan Facebook page thanks to everyone who took the time to “like”. Our target is to get 1000 likes before the end of the year so all help appreciated. Please like and share it with your friends.</p>
<p>Just a quick heads up – the week after this one we are back at The Railway Hotel in Chorley. Another good rock pub and we will be doing our best to give everyone a Good time and make them feel good. Sometimes a bit hit and miss on audience numbers but hoping for a good turnout.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>None this week – No time.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Mainly been listening to Toxic Moth’s album – Charades.</p>
<p>Not really something I would normally listen to but as I know Keith the singer I purchased a copy and have given it a fair hearing and whilst I have to be in the right mood it has grown on me quite a bit. So what does it sound like? To my ears I would say it’s a bit Prog rock, a bit Steely Dan and perhaps a bit of Floyd in there as well. Possibly even a bit of Thotch</p>
<p>So if that is your thing, and I know that for some of you it is, then it is certainly worth checking out – Toxic Moth – Charades.</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/937/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/937/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=937&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/41179052016-04-02T19:06:29+01:002021-12-28T05:44:09+00:00Snooty fox -Live streaming – The Clan, Darker my Horizon & Jupiter Falls<p>I would like to think I actually have some time now to write a proper update but I wouldn’t count on it. Next gig is not until April 9<sup>th</sup> and what a good night that is going to be.</p>
<p>It’s a three band bill,</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> April</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Snooty Fox</strong></p>
<p><strong>Wakefield</strong></p>
<p><strong>Yorkshire</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>The Clan + The Darker my Horizon + Jupiter Falls</strong></p>
<p>A great venue and we are in the company of some top bands so it really should be a great rockin’ night. Jupiter Falls are a hot band right now, a lot of publicity around them and their debut album “Revolution”. The Darker My Horizon were formed from the ashes of Sacred heart a cracking melodic rock band, their first album “Acquiesce” is a good listen and their second album is well advanced so we may hear some tracks from that.</p>
<p>All kicks off at 7pm and the curfew is 11pm. Not sure yet but I understand the event will be streamed Live across the internet presumably by going to <a href="http://www.snootyfoxlive.com/">http://www.snootyfoxlive.com/</a> . We will also be recording the event for a DVD so all in all should be a brilliant night.</p>
<p>Last gig we played was at The Nag’s Head Ripley for their popular Sunday afternoon session. It started off a little bit slow but it picked up considerably by the end and turned into a rather good gig. We decided not to use any lights as there isn’t a lot of space in there however that is probably the first and last time I will make that mistake. Halogen spotlights don’t do a lot for us visually and in terms of getting everyone into the mood of the music they don’t help with that either. A lesson learnt there.</p>
<p>This week we were very pleased, surprised and honoured to be awarded Hard Rock song of the month for “Tear us Apart” by Akademia. I had forgotten all about it but I submitted the song following a suggestion by an American Radio station who had been playing “Someone Else” from our rock for you EP. Apparently Akademia is used widely by Radio stations for introducing new material so you never know it may lead somewhere?</p>
<p>Here is the link to the page which shows we received the award and it also contains a nice little review. <a href="http://www.theakademia.com/march2016_bestsong_hardrock3.html">http://www.theakademia.com/march2016_bestsong_hardrock3.html</a></p>
<p>We have also been invited to an awards ceremony in LA which obviously we can’t go to but nice to be asked. There have been some indications on the Internet that Akademia is a scam which may or may not be true, however from our point of view it has cost us nothing and all publicity is good, the review seemed genuine enough although I suppose it could be a standard one with our name inserted? Seems a bit stupid and risky to arrange a live event (Award ceremony) if it is a scam? We shall see what happens as it is supposed to happen on April 21<sup>st</sup>?</p>
<p>Always nice to be recognised and to know that someone likes it.</p>
<p>We will be playing the song live at the next gig.</p>
<p>In fact we will be playing a few songs that we don’t play very often as it is an all original material gig for us of course. Some rehearsal required I think. Personally I much prefer playing original sets rather than covers as you know but as I have said many times we are pragmatic and realise that many venues want the covers.</p>
<p>We have had our first booking for 2017 already – I can’t really tell you much about it yet as it is still under wraps but it is confirmed and it is in London. Seems a long time away but the speed at which time is passing? Should be a good one.</p>
<p>Our Facebook page is continuing to get new “Likes” which is good. Would be great if all you face bookers could like and share it so we get a few more. It only takes a couple of clicks. Does it mean a lot, I am not sure but certainly there are people who check such things as a first stop when investigating the band for whatever reasons.</p>
<p>By the way our twitter account is @theclanrock in case anyone wants to follow that. All our tweets are automatically shown on our website under the “latest news” and they also show in my FB account “Craig mac”.</p>
<p>I often wonder what happens to all the photos and video people seem to take at our gigs, might be nice to see some of them but we rarely do get to. So if anyone has any?</p>
<p>Other news, the sad death of Keith Emerson, sounds like suicide due to depression. Such a talented man but he obviously had his demons. Being more into guitars than keyboards I wasn’t a huge fan of the music but I did appreciate his talent and he was a good entertaining showman as well.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Well roadworks where nothing seems to be happening? I thought this was going to be addressed by the Government but I haven’t seen any evidence of it so far.</p>
<p>People in slow rush hour traffic queues who won’t let you out of a side road as it might make them 5 seconds later at their destination.</p>
<p>People who throw cigarette ends (and litter) out of their car windows. People who drive expensive cars but don’t seem to be able to afford hands free kits for their phones?</p>
<p>Davina McCall’s latest Television program. What was it supposed to be? A travel show, a science show? A nature show. I couldn’t really tell and although she went to some amazing places and did some quite interesting things it just didn’t seem to work. Can’t blame her for going along with it though, nice work if you can get it. I just think she is being a bit let down by either the researchers or the script writers.</p>
<p>Why is it that you get someone in a series on TV and then they seem to be in about three at the same time? Just had it with Tuppence thingy who was in War and peace and Dickensian and now it is the guy from War and peace who is also in Grantchester and Happy Valley. Oh yes and the inspector from Dickensian was also in War and Peace as well. Hmm, it’s who you know obviously. Well could be that or maybe it is easier as the costume fitters know their measurements.</p>
<p>Sick of all the Euro in/out talk already. Some big guns in the let’s get out camp though, Boris being one of course. If it is an out vote will Cameron be on his way out as well?</p>
<p>May have mentioned this before but I can’t stand Radio and TV people who say “see what I did there” all the time as if we are too thick to notice the (not so) subtle link. Very condescending. Steve Wright and Simon Mayo both do it a lot which I think proves my point. Chris Evans is another one but I rarely listen to him these days as I don’t want bicycle bells and horns honking at 7am when I have just got out of bed.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Nothing new really, I’ve ordered the newly released Rainbow live at Donnington CD/DVD pack, I already have a copy of the DVD (not sure where I got if rom, Japan probably) and I don’t think there are any additions judging by the track listing but I don’t have the Audio for it which conatins more tracks than the DVD. Even the audio is not the full show, only what they could find, but there are not too many Rainbow Shows with Graham Bonnet on vocals available (apart from bootlegs). The Donnington show also had a slightly changed set list to most of the Down to Earth tour shows in order to include the likes of Stargazer. It was also the last show drummer Cozy Powell did with the band which was generally a well-known fact at the time plus the last show Graham Bonnet did (which was unknown). As I was there it is part of my youth as well as being the first rock show at Donnington so I just have to have it. Happy memories: The day also had Scorpions, Judas Priest and Saxon playing as well of course. That would still be a good line up now.</p>
<p>Anyway until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/926/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/926/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=926&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/40834392016-03-11T14:51:10+00:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00Ripley, Stanley’s Cask, Fakefest, Spider and other curiosities<p>Ok events have taken over this week so this will be short and to the point</p>
<p>This week we play another fairly regular gig for us</p>
<p><strong><u>Sunday 13th March </u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Nag’s Head</strong></p>
<p>Ripley</p>
<p>Derbyshire</p>
<p>Start approx. 5:30 pm.</p>
<p>Yes we return to deliver our Good time Feel good Rock at the legendary Nag’s Head Sunday afternoon session. Not a huge venue but always well attended by enthusiastic and knowledgeable rock fans. We have quite a few friends there now and be good to catch up with them all.</p>
<p>As mentioned last week we returned to Stanley’s Cask in Wallasey last Saturday after an absence of over four years. Triumphant? Well I probably wouldn’t say that but it was a good and enjoyable gig for us and certainly we only heard good things from the sizeable audience.</p>
<p>It is looking like we will be returning within a shorter time frame, hopefully this year.Thanks to all who came along and supported us, especially good to see old friends Brain and Linda who I used to know from my time in the Switch circa 1990.None of us have changed a bit ha-ha</p>
<p>The other big news for us this week is that we have been selected to play at a new festival in Birkenhead on July 9<sup>th</sup>. Called Fakefest, this is a touring festival which puts on three tribute bands in the evening and during the day five “local” bands. Held in a 2000 capacity Marquee it is the first time it has come to Birkenhead Park so should be good. The Tributes at this one are to Queen, Oasis and Kings of Leon although we have an evening gig in the Witton Chimes on that date so we won’t be there to see them.</p>
<p>We are third on the bill after Table 73 and The Havocs (not heard of either of them) then following us are Problem Child and Dr Strangelove both of whom we know and are good bands. So hopefully it will be a good afternoon, we play at 2:40pm. More Info at <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html">https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2016/Birkenhead.html</a></p>
<p>After this week’s gig we are taking a short break until April 9<sup>th</sup> when we play a three band line up at the Snooty Fox in Wakefield with The Darker my Horizon and Jupiter Falls. Both class bands so it will be a great night, more about that next time.</p>
<p>Unfortunately we had to postpone our recording session this week due to unforeseen circumstances however it will be rescheduled soon.</p>
<p>Apologies, no rants this week – well apart from the complete incompetence of DPD to deliver a parcel. Never had a problem with them before, but generally that is probably because I am in when they deliver. If you try to rearrange anything though good luck because you will never actually speak to a real person. After wasting considerable time, effort and no doubt phone charges I did finally manage it but it made no difference. Despite their promises to the contrary a parcel I was expecting last Thursday (3<sup>rd</sup>) has still not appeared. I am told that it may have actually arrived a at a collection point today (Halfords). We shall see.</p>
<p>Music news – Sad to see that two well-known music venues in the Bolton area are struggling and probably going to have to close. The Railway in Bromley X and the Moses Gate in Farnsworth. We have played both of them although not for some time. Both proper live music venues with in house PAs and lighting they are well known on the music circuit. Jon and Hilary from The Railway have always supported live music and had a wide range of bands etc. on ranging from unknown bands from abroad to tributes to some high profile names. Ray at the Moses Gate tended to mainly push Tribute bands but often with local or original band in support. Got to say a big thanks to them all for keeping the cause as long as possible.</p>
<p>AC/DC singer Brian Johnson to stop touring. It appears he has a hearing problem and could go totally deaf if he doesn’t stop. The band will play some gigs with guest vocalists? Is it time for them to stop given Malcolm Young is no longer there either? Difficult to say. I am sure if Angus still gets a kick out of playing he will want to carry on.</p>
<p>Rush’s drummer Neil Peart is apparently hanging up his live touring sticks as well. Says he can’t do it anymore with arthritis/ rheumatism. Ginger Baker has cancelled all his gigs due to heart issues. Aging catches up with everyone I guess and really doesn’t sound great.</p>
<p>Update on the Inglorious album – Not really had the inclination to listen to this one again. I suspect it will be filed along with other hyped albums I bought such as The Answer, Tracer, Blackstone Cherry and more. None of them bad just nothing to my ears that makes them special.</p>
<p>I am sure people say that about The Clan as well of course.</p>
<p>A band from my younger days were a local band called Spider. They had a modicum of success for about ten years, toured with Slade and others, played Reading festival, when it was a rock festival, they were more Quo than Quo at times. They are doing a “one off” reunion gig in October at Santa Pod. Could be a good one. Obviously I am trying to get The Clan onto the bill as a support but so far with no success. If anyone gets the inclination feel free to suggest this an option on Facebook etc. well, you’ve got to try these things. If I gave up every time I received a rejection then I would have given up a long time ago.</p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/915/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/915/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=915&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/40731512016-03-04T16:22:09+00:002017-01-14T00:19:06+00:00Clan in Wallasey, last week in Liverpool and Inglorious.<p>Another week another gig to tell you about.</p>
<p>Ok this week is an important one for us.</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 5<sup>th</sup> March </u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Stanleys Cask</strong></p>
<p>Rake Lane</p>
<p>Wallasey</p>
<p>Wirral</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Important?</strong> Well basically this is pretty much a hometown gig in a good well known respected music venue. Yes we have played there before but not for four years, in fact it may even be five? I know it was New Year’s Day the last time we played there but was it 2011 or 2012? I could look it up but suffice to say it’s been quite a while.</p>
<p>I know we have played in West Kirby a couple of times in the last twelve months and that has been good but Stanley’s has a reputation for being a music venue.</p>
<p>We are looking forward to it and hoping that all the folks who keep asking when we are going to play locally turn up. If they all do then the place will be packed which would be great. Obviously the more people there, buying drinks the more chance we have of being asked back, that is how it works in pubs folks. We are there to sell beer <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-smile" title=":-)">:-)</span></p>
<p>So you can still watch Ant and Dec and then come and see us whilst having a few drinks.</p>
<p>Last Saturday was a first for us at the Pilgrim in Liverpool.</p>
<p>A very well received gig as it turned out, Bourbon Toulouse played a good tight set of their punk/indie type music and also had quite a few people along especially to see them. They stayed for us as well.</p>
<p>We played at just after 9:30 and went right through to the 11:00pm curfew. Mainly a cover set as that seemed to be what the audience wanted but we still threw in Rock For you, Night Ride, the Few and Waxworks which were very well received. A good few friends in the audience however a lot of new ones as well judging by the comment afterwards.</p>
<p>The only slight downer on the evening and it is really more for consideration should we think of playing there again was the bar manager complaining later that we were not packed up and out by 11:30 as she wasn’t getting paid after then? Given we didn’t finish playing until 11:00pm and it always takes us on average 45-60 minutes to strike down the gear and load the van anywhere we play that was never going to happen.</p>
<p>The other thing was that I hadn’t been made aware of was that the gig was effectively a private function in the upstairs lounge, not a general pub gig. This means many people may have remained downstairs possibly not realising they were allowed upstairs. If we have known this was the case we would have carried out more promotion downstairs throughout the night.</p>
<p>The suggestion that “next time” we need to be out by 11:30 would mean that we needed to finish playing at 10:30 – half an hour before last orders. That is not a good idea. It is therefore unlikely that we would return on those terms. Nice venue but logistically not great. Having said that I have not spoken to the boss and he was not there on Saturday.</p>
<p>Next Week we are scheduled to be back in Parr street Studio to record another new song for the album. For once I have almost completed the lyrics ahead of time, somehow I seem to thrive on writing them the day before so this is a turn up for the books. No doubt they will change between now and the final mix.</p>
<p>I took my Craig Mac Customised Blackmore Strat on Saturday, didn’t use it of course it just sat on the guitar stand as my spare. Always a good idea to have a spare though in case of string breakage, electronics issues etc.</p>
<p>So what else has happened this week? Lost a couple of pounds which was good although the kitchen is being revamped at the moment so unfortunately take-away meals and eating out seem to be the order of the day which is probably not good. Trying to control it.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>We were in a restaurant the other night, we were the only two people in there. The waiter wrote my order correctly but somehow between it being passed from him to the chef a different meal was prepared? Come on, we were the only two people there! To be fair they made good with the bill and I will go back as I like the place but it does make you wonder.</p>
<p>No time for any more – sorry</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>I mentioned it last week so I decided to put my money where my mouth is and acquired the debut album from the much hyped and lauded “Inglorious”</p>
<p>It’s not bad at all although it’s not really anything I haven’t heard a lot of other bands doing just as well (Stormzone for instance). The singer who seems to be the main focus of the band definitely sounds like David Coverdale quite often (no bad thing) and as I mentioned last week I believe he was on “the Voice” so there is no denying the guy can sing. Having had it over a week though it hasn’t exactly been on “Heavy Rotation”</p>
<p>I have noticed though that there seems to be a current trend for vocalists to push themselves into what is almost shouting nearly all of the time, I find Blackstone Cherry and Nickelback are the same. Yes they remain in tune but it gets on my nerves after a while. Maybe they just have very powerful voices? Having said that so do the likes of Bryan Adams, David Coverdale, Robert Plant and Ian Gillan but they don’t sound like they are shouting all the way through every song.</p>
<p>Anyway – I suspect they will be good live so if they come anywhere near I will probably go and take a look.</p>
<p>Other listening this week is Saxon’s latest offering Battering Ram, you get what you expect from that one, more heavily played has been the bonus “Live at Sweden Rock” Set from 2011 so you get the hits plus promotions of what was then their latest album “call to arms”. All very enjoyable.</p>
<p>Anyway – Got to go</p>
<p>Until next time – keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/905/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/905/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=905&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/40607392016-02-25T20:16:15+00:002021-05-19T11:40:26+01:00First Liverpool gig, Cambridge,and new bands.<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well here we go again, will I have time to complete this time? First off here is what you need to know</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 27<sup>th</sup> February</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Pilgrim Pub</strong></p>
<p>Pilgrim Street</p>
<p>Liverpool</p>
<p>8:00 pm</p>
<p>It is our first time at this venue and actually the first time the band have played anywhere near Liverpool city centre. Personally I don’t think Liverpool is really a rock town and hasn’t been for a long time if it ever was? Most of the known bands that emerged from the city have been more “indie” in nature : Echo and the Bunnymen, The Coral, Cast/the La’s, Frankie goes to Hollywood, The Farm, the Wombats and probably a whole raft of others I am unaware of or have chosen to forget. The Last original rock bands I know that came out of Liverpool were Export, Rage/Nutz and not only was that a long time ago but neither were exactly household names.</p>
<p>For the Pilgrim gig we are pleased to say that Bourbon Toulouse are our special guests. They haven’t been together that long in their current form and need to play a few more gigs so we are happy to help them out.</p>
<p>New original music needs support.</p>
<p>The Pilgrim is a great pub in its own right, worth a visit if you have never been just for the beer and the atmosphere. Should be a good night.</p>
<p>Our last couple of gigs were both good fun. We played Alexanders in Chester for the HB Rock & Blues II along with the aforementioned Bourbon Toulouse and another Wirral rock band: Savage Outlaw. Good original sets from all bands, a couple of covers thrown in by Savage Outlaw and Toulouse but the majority of their sets was original material. To be honest it was not that well attended but I think there will be another event in June so word may get around. Again thanks to Alexanders for supporting live original music.</p>
<p>We followed our appearance there with a return to the Musketeer in Leigh. We generally have a good night there and this time was the busiest I have seen it. Very appreciative crowd and a great night was had by all.</p>
<p>Our one off tribute to Lemmy in the form of Silver Machine seems to have become part of our set now and it surprises me how well it seems to be received? Still there you go, you never can tell.</p>
<p>Other big news for us this week is the confirmation that we have been booked to play at Cambridge Rock Festival in August. We have played there previously, this year the headliners are Jim Cregan (Rod Stewart’s guitarist and Song writing partner), Carl Palmer (ELP) and Focus (as in Hocus Pocus and Sylvia). The line-up is quite prog (progressive) rock this time, it seemed to be quite bluesy last time, so hopefully our brand of Good time feel good rock will be a breath of fresh air.</p>
<p>We also have a prestige gig in April when we play with “The Darker My Horizon” (previously Sacred Heart) and “Jupiter Falls” at the Snooty Fox in Wakefield. Both of those bands have albums to promote and are being talked about on the grapevine. We are all slightly different in our approach to rock so it really should be a good night. There is the possibility that the gig may be streamed over the internet or filmed for a DVD. Guess we need to rehearse a bit for that one, especially some endings J. Hoping we can get in a couple of new tracks which will be on the next album. – see next paragraph.</p>
<p>As you can see a few good things happening. I posted the recently recorded track (Tear us Apart) up on the internet via sound cloud and it has had nothing but positive feedback so really pleased about that. It’s only the radio edit (Shortened version), the full length version will be on the new album which we are putting out this year. Finances mean it will have to be recorded in dribs and drabs which is not ideal but we will get there. The next track is being recorded in March at Parr Street studio. A bit of a rocker currently going under the working title of “Brother in Arms” which bears no resemblance whatsoever to the Dire straits track of the same name.</p>
<p>Now I know we are playing Cambridge Rock Festival the production of T –shirts and merchandise is crucial. If any of you knows anybody who can help out with the T-shirt, please let us know at <a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a>. This continues to be a major source of frustration to me.</p>
<p>Speaking of merchandise I have a few other ideas mulling about at the moment as well.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Well it has started hasn’t it? The should we stay or should we go question about Europe. Has the referendum date been announced or is everyone just assuming it is June? All I know is that for the next four months it is going to be very tedious if we let it. I did see some posts of clips form Yes (Prime) Minister on social media. Not actually watched them but I guess they must be along the same topic and knowing that program they are probably quite accurate.</p>
<p>Double yellow lines on roads. Yes I am happy if they stop people parking in dangerous or obstructive places but quite often they are just there and there seems to be no real logic why? Council jobsworths I suspect, use the paint up.</p>
<p>Come on E4, what has happened to the second half of the big bang theory. The latest series seemed to stop at episode 10i or 11 just before Christmas and it has never come back? I am sure there must be 20+ episodes as there usually are with the American TV networks.</p>
<p>Self-service tills/checkouts in supermarkets. They are not new anymore, they have been around for quite a while yet still a large percentage of people who don’t seem to have a clue. The queue for these is often longer than for the staffed checkouts due to the stupidity of these people.</p>
<p>It’s not that difficult is it, surely?</p>
<p>In fact given that they probably go once or more times a week the ability of many people to actually keep walking in a supermarket and not just stop in front of you seems to be becoming less frequent. It is almost as though they are in wonderland for the first time and dazzled by the bright shiny shelves.</p>
<p>To be avoided in peak times most definitely.</p>
<p>I was in staples stationery the other day as I needed about 5-10 A3 posters. Not our general one, I have those done in batches of 250/500, these were a venue specific one. Well there were about four staff who completely ignoring me despite the fact that a couple of them were actually wearing shirts emblazoned with “here to help “or something similar.</p>
<p>Basically when I did manage to extract a few grunts from one of them he effectively told me that the pre-paid printing cards could not be topped up (they actually have the word Reloadable printed on them) and I would need to buy a new one. Given that I already had some money on an existing card and I wanted to top it up as you are supposed I was not impressed. I voted with my feet and left. They were pathetic really, be interesting to see how long that branch (Chester) stays open as it wasn’t busy and I won’t be going in there again.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>The other week I went out to see Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock at the O2 academy in Liverpool. Now for those of you who don’t know Michael Schenker fits perfectly into my definition of a guitar hero. Many of you will have your own definitions as to what that means and I am sure will be willing to tell me about them but at the end of the day I have mine and no matter what anyone says it is unlikely to change. Schenker is to my mind a bonafide guitar hero and he and his band delivered a crackin’ set. Doogie White (ex Rainbow) on Vocals), Herman Rarebell and Francis Bucholtz (ex Scorpions) were solid on drums and bass respectively plus someone unknown to me performing an excellent job on keyboards and second guitar. A mixed set of UFO, Scorpions, MSG and Temple of rock Tunes made for an excellent evening. Even the awful lager (no proper beer to be seen) in plastic glasses at £4.40 a pint didn’t ruin it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Planet rock are plugging a band called Inglorious heavily at the moment and to be fair they are not bad at all. An ex vocalist from TV’s “The Voice”, who I think sang with Uli Jon Roth recently plus some decent tunes, one of the better Hyped bands I have heard for a while. Good enough to buy the album? Jury is out on that one.</p>
<p>Black Stone Cherry, I don’t mind in small doses although not still too sure about the Rival sons or the Temperance Movement. I’ve kind of lost track with the current bands which is probably not good.</p>
<p>A real shame to hear about the band Viola Beach who as you probably know were all killed in a car accident in Sweden recently. I didn’t know them (Indie band) before it was on the news but at the end of the day they were young lads out doing what they had dreamed of doing and I am sure they were all really excited and thinking they were starting to get somewhere. The tragedy is that they were so young, most of them only 19 or 20.</p>
<p>Unfortunately musicians and entertainers do spend an awful lot of their time travelling so it is statistically inevitable that such incidents will occur every now and again, not that it makes it any less tragic.</p>
<p>I have to laugh at all the whinging and whining about Ritchie Blackmore’s forthcoming rock gigs. Even ex Rainbow vocalist Joe Lynn Turner has spit his dummy out now, probably because he is not involved. I think people are forgetting a few things: It is Ritchie’s band and he can have who he wants in it. People are saying why use unknowns, well as far as I know most people he has had in the band were unknown before he employed them, Ronnie Jame Dio, Graham Bonnet, Joe Lyn Turner, Doogie White, all fine singers but had anyone heard of them before they joined Ritchie? So he is not exactly doing anything he hasn’t done before. To my recollection the only people he has ever had that were already well known “names” were Cozy Powell and Roger Glover and neither of them is available to do the job; Cozy is no longer with us of course and Roger is still in Deep Purple who would not take too kindly to him participating I suspect even if he was asked and wanted to.</p>
<p>Basically who cares who is in the band – they will be competent musicians and its Ritchie and his Stratocaster that people want to see, that is what is selling the tickets. It’s really quite simple, if you have a ticket and don’t fancy going because of the other guys in the band then sell it. There will be no shortage of takers.</p>
<p>After the Chester gig, one of the guys in Savage Outlaw told me that we sounded very much like Saxon? Never really thought that myself but I suppose coming from the same era it is a possibility. Anyway, I took it a compliment.</p>
<p>So for now I will sign off otherwise this is never going to be posted.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/890/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/890/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=890&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/40212562016-02-02T18:35:19+00:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Rockin’ Chester this Thursday<p>Hi folks</p>
<p>Welcome to another Blog/Update and Clan news sheet</p>
<p>Let’s get the priorities right</p>
<p><strong><u>Thursday 4<sup>th</sup> February</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Alexanders – Rock & Blues II</strong></p>
<p><strong>Rufus Court </strong></p>
<p><strong>Chester</strong></p>
<p>8:00pm – 12:00 Midnight</p>
<p>Also appearing – Bourbon Toulouse and Savage Outlaw</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 13<sup>th</sup> February</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Musketeer</strong></p>
<p>Leigh</p>
<p>9:30</p>
<p>The Thursday 4<sup>th</sup> gig is all original material so looking forward to that one. May even deliver the live debut of our latest track “Tear Us Apart” if I can learn the words in time.</p>
<p>You can click <a href="https://soundcloud.com/craig-mac-14/tear-us-apart-radio-edit" target="_blank">here</a> to hear the shortened Radio edit version if you are interested. We think it is one of the best we have done so far and from comments we have received it seems to proving to be quite popular.</p>
<p>It was suggested that we sort a video for it and put it up on YouTube but not sure about that one.</p>
<p>We still don’t seem to be able to produce a T-shirt so videos are highly unlikely.</p>
<p>Why it is proving so difficult to produce the shirt I really don’t know.</p>
<p>We haven’t played for a couple of weeks as you know. The last gig saw us return to the Griffin after a lengthy break and it was a cracker. Two more there this year. Yes we did our Silver machine tribute to Lemmy again and it went down a storm again.</p>
<p>Only fly in the ointment was me cutting my finger whilst loading the van, quite a nasty cut which bruised as well. Just about healed now and it was over two weeks ago. Probably a good thing we didn’t have any gigs.</p>
<p>So what else has been happening aside from the domestic side of life? Not much really.</p>
<p>Still watching the weigh and fortunately it is heading in the right direction at the moment. Still a fair way to go based on the picture taken at the Witton Chimes on Jan 2<sup>nd</sup>. I am using that as my fridge picture to remind me.</p>
<p>I treated myself before Christmas and bought a new Guitar, A Ritchie Blackmore Fender Stratocaster. No it doesn’t make me sound or play like him although bizarrely it does make me want to play Deep Purple and Rainbow songs when I pick it up. It has some nice touches such as recessed strap locks and a scalloped fingerboard although I have not yet worked out what benefit this is supposed to give. I was not intending to use it with the band as the pickups are single coils and not the same as on my stage guitars. It was really just for me because I wanted it and it was time to give myself a treat. Needless to say I am now in the process of carrying out my standard modifications so that I can use it live. So you may see it pop up in some pictures soon as my spare on stage.</p>
<p>Do you know, keeping these things regular is a difficult activity when you have so many other things going on? I started putting this one together a few days ago and it is now imperative that I put it out to tie in with the next gigs or it will be pointless.</p>
<p>It’s February already. Social media has it‘s uses but finding time to keep it all updated is proving more and more difficult.</p>
<p>I did have quite a few other things I was going to mention but nothing that won’t keep until next time</p>
<p>So I will finish here and just say that I hope you are all keeping healthy, enjoying life and are remembering to keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Oh yes – just a quick one – I listened to the Back Street Crawler album by Paul Kossoff and I can see why it passed me by. Disappointing at best but I will review properly next time.</p>
<p>See ya</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/877/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/877/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=877&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905072016-01-07T20:54:09+00:002022-05-11T15:25:11+01:00The Clan/Lemmy/Hairy Bikers & More<p>Right, Christmas and New Year done and dusted and most people are back into the routine of everyday life.</p>
<p>Hope you all had good ones. How long will you keep those resolutions?</p>
<p>Apologies for the short posting last week but we take time off as well you know. I am making up for it now though by providing an epic. I may even have to index it so you can skip some bits</p>
<p>Sections so far are</p>
<p><strong>Next Gig</strong></p>
<p><strong>General </strong></p>
<p><strong>Rants</strong></p>
<p><strong>Lemmy</strong></p>
<p><strong>Music</strong></p>
<p><strong>Reading</strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Next Gig</u></strong></p>
<p>Right for those who simply want to know where we are appearing, you can catch us this week at:</p>
<p><strong><u>Saturday 9<sup>th</sup> January</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Griffin</strong></p>
<p>Earlestown/Newton-Le Willows</p>
<p>9:30pm</p>
<p>Been a while since we played the Griffin actually, a nice rock venue so we are looking forward to the return.</p>
<p><strong><u>General</u></strong></p>
<p>Let’s have a quick look back over the last couple of weeks.</p>
<p>We played the Bretton M.C.C. Charity Christmas gig on Dec 19<sup>th</sup> and from our point of view it went well. We did a forty five minute set which was well received and then it was good to see our old friends Sack Sabbath do their thing to a large enthusiastic crowd. The whole thing was very well organised by Gary Lewis, Lee Brooker and Russel Campbell so a big thumbs up to them and I understand nearly £3000 was raised for charity. All in all an excellent evening.</p>
<p>We then took a break for Christmas and reconvened on 30<sup>th</sup> at Sky Hammer studio to do some recording with our friend and producer extraordinaire Mr Russell Cottier.</p>
<p>As usual the best laid plans went out of the window and a last minute change was made to the song choice! We ended up recording a what I had envisaged as a 4:30 rock song and it morphed into a 7 minute epic. Still, there you go and the mixes I have heard so far sound really good to my ears. Just a few final tweaks and job done. I think there will be a shorter edited “Radio Mix” version as well.</p>
<p>Next decision is really around whether it will be released as a “single” or held back for inclusion on the album which we really hope to finish this year.</p>
<p>Watch this space.</p>
<p>Speaking of things to be completed this year we still have no T-shirts which is a major disappointment and source of frustration to me. I really need some help on this to produce the vision but none has really been forthcoming to date. Looks like I may have to try and do it myself. Hmm, art and graphics are really not my strong point. Maybe it is time to learn.</p>
<p>Last Saturday we played our first gig of the year at the Witton Chimes in Northwich. It’s a great crowd and we love to play there. Unbeknown to us there was a slight hiccup with their new in house PA however it was still a great gig and a good start to the year. The PA issue will be addressed next time around (July) and it certainly didn’t stop people’s enjoyment as far as we could tell. We decided at the last minute to do a tribute to Lemmy who died unexpectedly over the Christmas period and rather than the obvious “Ace of Spades” we went back to the song that introduced him to the public at large, Hawkwind’s “Silver Machine” He did the vocals and played bass on that track. Considering that we were basically doing it on the fly, although I had obtained and printed out the lyrics, it went down a storm. Great way to finish the gig.</p>
<p>A little disappointed to find out some of this year’s festivals are already fully booked up in respect to bands but will keep trying to see if we can get on at least a couple. There are always drop outs and cancellations to be filled. Just got to be around when they need to find someone.</p>
<p>We are playing the second Rock & Blues Night at Alexander’s in Chester on February 4<sup>th</sup>. As before there are three bands on each playing original material for an hour or so, this time it is us, Bourbon Toulouse and Savage Outlaw. All Wirral based bands. Seems a shame actually that nowhere on Wirral is willing to try this as an alternative to the usual tributes and covers bands. People might actually be surprised and it does make a bit of a change to the same old same old. Again, a thumbs up to Alexander’s and HB promotions for giving it a try.</p>
<p>Later this year (April 9<sup>th</sup>) we are playing the Snooty Fox in Wakefield. Three bands on and we are co-headlining with “The Darker my Horizon”. TDMH is my good friend Paul Stead’s band. Basically Paul changed the band name from Sacred Heart to the Darker my Horizon to give the band a fresh start but fans of Sacred Heart won’t be disappointed. Looking forward to that one. The third band will probably be a local Wakefield band although this is still to be confirmed.</p>
<p>I believe the show may be able to be streamed over the internet but I will be checking that as well closer to the time.</p>
<p>Oh, forgot to mention we are also playing with Bourbon Toulouse at the Pilgrim in Liverpool on Feb 27<sup>th</sup>. First time The Clan have played in Central Liverpool and the Pilgrim is a great pub.</p>
<p>Jim helped out some other good friends of ours “Toxic Moth” just before Christmas as well, he sat in on the drums for them at the launch of their new album in Barnsley (Civic Hall). I couldn’t get there myself but it sounded like a good show and it went well. I think they are arranging a few more shows but whether they will still require Jim I don’t know? I think there is some footage on YouTube although the sound is actually from the album so it’s not Jim drumming although he is in the visuals.</p>
<p>If you like Prog Rock then check them out.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>I have to say I do think it is really unfair and unnecessary for shops to be open the day on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Ok so actually a lot were closed New Year’s day although I think the big supermarket chains were open. Have we really reached the stage now where people are incapable of planning two days ahead to allow shop workers two days off? Almost seems a bit Dickensian forcing people to work for no real reason.</p>
<p>I know when I was younger the shops were closed for more than a day and everyone seemed to survive.</p>
<p>Petrol and diesel prices have gone down recently, not sure how this can happen really unless it is a government Tax/duty related decrease which it is not. I would have thought that any finite resource which is in constant or growing demand would only go up whatever happens.</p>
<p>I know they are very clever and actually when you start watching them you almost forget but there did seem to be an awful lot of animated CGI films on this year. I suppose they are the modern day equivalent of cartoons like the Jungle book.</p>
<p>I see the government is expecting all children to know their times tables up to 12*12 by the time they leave primary school. I didn’t realise this wasn’t a requirement. I am sure it was when I was 11. Seems to me that they don’t half mess about with education yet they always end up going back to the standards. Is it just a ploy to keep some education “experts” employed? I am all for progress and change if it is logical and it works but not just for the sake of it.</p>
<p>Usual round of 50 best of this and 100 greatest of that programs on over the festive period. Don’t mind them but I really hate the way they have celebrities and experts talking about the greatest this or that in-between the clips. The reasons I hate them are either because I have no idea who the people talking are or they really don’t look old enough to remember the people in the clip let alone be qualified to pass an opinion.</p>
<p>When will people realise that as useful as it is having a Facebook “page” it is in no way the same as having a proper website. Fine for individuals but is running a business, any kind of business and relying on the whims, limitations and constraints of Mr Zuckerberg really a good idea. At least with your own website you are in control as to how it works and what you put on it. So by all means have both but just FB? No!</p>
<p><strong><u>Lemmy</u></strong></p>
<p>I couldn’t publish this blog without a special tribute to Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister who sadly passed away unexpectedly (certainly to the public at large anyway) in Dec at the age of 70.</p>
<p>For me and I suspect like many people he first came to notice via a promotional film on Top of the Pops in 1972 in which he sang the vocals and played bass on Hawkwind’s surprise hit Silver Machine. Slightly bizarre as he generally didn’t do the vocals in Hawkwind but apparently he was the only one in the band who could manage a reasonable vocal for Silver machine?</p>
<p>I followed Hawkwind for the next few years only to lose my interest in them after Lemmy was fired following the release of the (not very good) Warrior on the Edge of Time album. He was arrested for suspected possession of Cocaine at the Canadian border on a tour which turned out to be not the case and was set free however the band sacked him due to the incident? As far as I am concerned if you want to hear the real classic Hawkwind then listen to The Space Ritual, it’s all you really need to know.</p>
<p>After a few false starts and line-up changes his newly formed band Motorhead arrived at the same time as Punk in ‘76 and were actually classed as such by some people. I remember buying the 12” single Motorhead/City Kids (The song Motorhead being a song Lemmy wrote for Hawkwind) from the legendary Skeleton records in Birkenhead and everything about it was loud, the music, the production, the mastering.</p>
<p>They then brought out their first album simply called Motorhead which was more of the same including a couple more revamped Hawkwind songs (Lost Johnny, the Watcher).</p>
<p>I finally got to see them live when they played in the Hamilton Club in Birkenhead (January ’77 I believe) on the tour for the album. I wandered in with my mates (all of us underage obviously) and Phil “filthy animal” Taylor and “Fast” Eddie Clarke were at the bar drinking and signing autographs. Over at the fruit machine was Lemmy, happily signing autographs and accepting drinks in-between spins on the machine. Dressed as he always was in black. I had a poster signed by all the band on my wall for a long time.</p>
<p>Come showtime, Lemmy simply left the fruit machine and wandered onto the stage with the others where they then proceeded to batter everyone’s eardrums with some no frills balls out rock for an hour or so. For the encore Lemmy informed us they had no more songs so they simply played Motorhead again. They then left the stage, Lemmy went back to the fruit machine whilst Phil and Eddie returned to the bar once again all making themselves available to sign autographs in-between spins and drinks.</p>
<p>I’ve seen Motorhead many times since then and they became a bit slicker in their presentation, although the music didn’t alter very much, but that first gig was the most memorable.</p>
<p>I was in the Rainbow in LA a couple of years ago and was hoping to catch up with him but Motorhead must have been on tour as that is the only reason I can think of why Lemmy wouldn’t have been there. It’s a well-known fact that he lived around the corner and virtually lived in the Rainbow every day. Basically the same guy I met in ’77, sitting at the bar, playing video games and happy to talk to people and fans.</p>
<p>What aren’t well known facts are that the guy had been playing guitar from an early age and absolutely loved Rock & Roll. He was a roadie for Jimi Hendrix at one point and despite what people may think he was an extremely well read, clever articulate guy. He wrote lyrics for many other bands including Ozzy Osbourne and was always helpful and polite to his support acts (ask Saxon, Girlschool, Twisted Sister and others) which is not always the case with headline bands.</p>
<p>Incidentally the popular explanation for his nickname Lemmy is that he was always asking people to lend him money: Lem me a fiver, lem me a quid etc. True or not, it stuck and it’s a good story.</p>
<p>Whilst taking playing music seriously as a professional job he definitely realised that it was simply entertainment to make you feel good for a couple of hours and nothing else. He certainly didn’t think he would be changing the world and he certainly didn’t think he was producing concertos or symphonies but he loved doing what he did. He played his bass more like a rhythm guitar than a bass which is pretty much why Motorhead sound like they do.</p>
<p>The fact that Motorhead had a tour booked and were planning another new album (their 23<sup>rd</sup>?) shows that he certainly had no intentions of stopping and he was never going to until he dropped.</p>
<p>Rock has lost one of its great characters and much loved true rockers no matter whether you like the music or not. Irreplaceable. R.I.P. Lemmy and thanks for wrecking my ears, in a good way.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Well you would think being Christmas and all I would have stocked up on a few new albums. Actually I suppose I have.</p>
<p>Talk of Paul Kossoff recently inspired me to acquire his post free solo album “Back Street Crawler” which for some unknown reason I have never actually heard. Somewhat of an oversight on my part. Only had it on in the background so far so too early to give my opinion really. First track seemed to be a 17 minute instrumental jam but I may be mistaken.</p>
<p>I also reacquainted myself with Uriah Heep live in Moscow which I had on a cassette tape back circa 1990. For some reason the download has been renamed Access all areas –Live in Moscow but it is the same album. I like Heep although they can blow a bit hot and cold. I saw them live around the time this album was originally released and they were really good.</p>
<p>The Wizard, Stealin’, Gypsy and of course Easy Livin’ are all classics and all on this album although being honest there are better versions of them elsewhere.</p>
<p>Another band I always liked and I have a large number of vinyl albums to prove it were Bachman-Turner-Overdrive. There was always so much more to them than “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet” although that is a great track. It is just a shame that people could never see past that and listen to their other output such as the magnificent Not Fragile album for instance.</p>
<p>I was therefore really pleased when Randy Bachman and Fred (C.F.) Turner got back together in 2010 and made a new album as Bachman & Turner. **The Bachman-Turner-Overdrive name now belongs to Rob Bachman and Blair Thornton who have continued to tour under that name since the 70s.</p>
<p>I heard a few tracks on a sampler at the time but didn’t think they were anything special. Anyway I decided to take the plunge and use an iTunes voucher I received for Christmas for the outrageously overpriced (£15) Concert album Bachman & Turner live in New York.</p>
<p>I am glad I did, it is brilliant. Pretty much every BTO song you want to hear including Sledgehammer, Rock is my life, Not Fragile, takin’ care of business, Four wheel drive, Let it Ride, Roll on down the highway , a version of American Woman (originally by Bachman’s’ former band The Guess Who) and a take it or leave it reasonable version of Johnny Kidd’s Shakin’ all over. There are also some of the new B&T Songs which actually sound really good and fit seamlessly alongside the older songs.</p>
<p>As you would expect the playing is faultless, tasteful and it sounds like classic BTO.</p>
<p>There is a video available I believe and I was thinking of purchasing it however it looks as though it has been uploaded to YouTube so I will save my cash on that one.</p>
<p>If I get the chance I will be trying to catch them live however I suspect that this is unlikely to happen in the UK anytime soon.</p>
<p>Just found out that Michael Schenker (ex Scorpions, UFO and Michael Schenker Group) is playing locally this month so will probably pop along to that, I have seen him many times before but it is a small venue and should be a good night out. I think Graham Bonnet (Ex Rainbow vocalist – Since you’ve been gone) is on at the same venue soon afterwards as well so that may be another night out. Obviously I have tried for support slots at both gigs but I think they have been arranged already.</p>
<p><strong><u>Reading</u></strong></p>
<p>Managed to read a couple of books during my downtime so here is an additional section.</p>
<p>The first one was Chrissie Hynde’s biography. Not a big fan of her or the Pretenders really although I won’t deny a couple of the singles are quite good. I just like to read about what makes other musicians tick and see what their drivers were for getting into music.</p>
<p>Having read the book there is nothing in it which endears Ms Hynde to me really, I don’t think I would particularly be interested in meeting or talking to her not that the opportunity is likely to present itself. The book also seemed to stop in the early eighties which kind of left me feeling 30 years short changed. Has she done nothing in the last 30 years or is she saving it for volume 2?</p>
<p>My second book was the Hairy Bikers autobiography. Not a music biography but actually an excellent read and unlike Chrissie Hynde these are two people I would be more than happy to meet and talk to. Both Si and Dave come across as genuine guys who are interested in people and “stuff” and realise how fortunate they are to be in their current position. They have both worked hard to get to where they are though and both have had their share of troubles on the way. Good luck to them I say. A crackin’ read.</p>
<p>Will I guess I had better stop now before this blog/update itself turns into a book.</p>
<p>Looking forward to a great year in 2016 and hope everyone else is happy and healthy. Catch as many of you as I can this year somewhere sometime.</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/847/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/847/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=847&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905082016-01-01T15:40:26+00:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Rockin’ into 2016<p>Happy New Year everyone – here is to a great and healthy 2016.</p>
<p>We kick off our rockin’</p>
<p><strong>Saturday 2nd January</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Witton Chimes</strong></p>
<p><strong>Northwich</strong></p>
<p><strong>9:30</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We love this venue as the people like to rock which always helps.</p>
<p>Many good friends there now as well.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>See you there</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/845/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/845/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=845&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905092015-12-18T19:55:05+00:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Final Clan gig of 2015<p>So, here we are heading towards our final gig of 2015 (Did I think I was already in 2016 last week? It wouldn’t surprise me). It’s been a good year for gigs and it has gone by in a whirlwind. Our decision to reduce the number of gigs in addition to being more selective has certainly paid off as far as I am concerned. The majority of the gigs have been far more enjoyable and the audiences far more responsive and enthusiastic.</p>
<p>Here we go, last chance to catch us in 2015</p>
<p><strong><u>Bretton M.C.C Christmas Charity Bash</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Saturday 19<sup>th</sup> December</strong></p>
<p>Saltney Tavern</p>
<p>Saltney (Chester)</p>
<p>Special guests to Sack Sabbath</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Looking forward to this one as we are good friend with Sack Sabbath and they are the best Sabbath tribute there is in my opinion. We will probably stick to a mainly Rock covers set given the nature of the event although I am sure Rock for You, Night Ride and the Few will be aired.</p>
<p>Not sure of timings but I guess we will be doing 45 mins to an hour at some point.</p>
<p>Following this one we take a couple of weeks off until we return to the Witton Chimes in January.</p>
<p>So I will wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New now in case I don’t get around to it after today.</p>
<p>As you know we were back at West Kirby Tap last Saturday which went quite well. Not as busy as the first time we were there earlier this year but a fair sized crowd who had a good time. We return in May next year. It is nice to play on “home turf” for a change as it gives a rare chance for our friends to see us and catch up.</p>
<p>Highlights of the year, well actually the aforementioned first gig at the Tap earlier this year, good support slots to “name” bands Troyen and Raven also allowed us to do 100% original material which we always prefer, cover versions being a means to get gigs in “pub” venues really.</p>
<p>Similarly all credit to Alexander’s in Chester for putting on a night of original Rock & Blues music in association with HB promotions, rare to find venues who will take the risk these days.</p>
<p>As an aside it must have shown promise as they are repeating the event in February and we are one of the three bands again so we must be doing something right.</p>
<p>We have about half of the gigs we anticipate next year already booked and a few still being scheduled so I thinks we will be doing about 30 -35 again which is all we really want to do. A couple of festivals would be nice so we are working on that as well.</p>
<p>We have some new venues already booked next year which is always nice. There are still some venues out there who refuse to acknowledge us which is their prerogative although at times I don’t really understand why when you look at who they do have on. Having said that I have said many times that I am fully aware it is about selling beer for most of these places and they are really not too bothered what they put on as long as the takings are up. You can’t blame them for that and we do alright for bookings elsewhere. There are some venues I don’t even bother trying now.</p>
<p>T-shirts – still not done. This will be sorted before the end of the year. I really didn’t appreciate how difficult it is trying to design and produce a simple shirt. We have the concept I just need to find someone who is capable of executing it as anything involve art is not my thing at all.</p>
<p>Recordings, yes we released our “This is a thing called…” album this year but so far it has only been available on Download from all the usual suspects, iTunes, Amazon, etc. We will be pressing up some CDs very shortly although we are potentially considering a limited edition vinyl release as this may be more desirable. Cost being the factor here of course. Vinyl is far more expensive to produce then CDs and the artwork for the cover is more important as well</p>
<p>Speaking of Recording we are going to head into a studio over the Christmas break and see what comes out of that. We have a number of new songs to lay down but we haven’t decided yet which ones we can fit into the allocated time. Really need to pursue that pledge campaign to get some funding for a new studio album. It’s not going to happen without it.</p>
<p>Regular Producer Russell Cottier will once again be flying the console. He seems to be doing really well so I suspect it won’t be long before we can’t afford him anymore.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>Well I keep thinking of these but always forget by the time I write this. I know some of you like them though.</p>
<p>I have just been to the post office actually, how irritating is that. Only wanted some stamps but they prefer you to queue up at a machine and then when you get to it someone is there showing you how to use it. How is that saving people? The stupid machine prints the stamps in strips of 6 as well so you have to wait for a while if getting a few as you do at Christmas. Much quicker when they just ripped a strip out of a book at the counter.</p>
<p>Christmas sales are on I see, how does that work, the same way as the Black Friday ones I suppose. Pick an event and then spread a retail opportunity several days each side of it, no-one will notice. Come January 1st valentines will be the event to hit the marketing machine.</p>
<p>Television is full of adverts and programs for people going to parties and events where food and drink are in abundance and everyone wears Christmas jumpers and drinks mulled wine. Well I know that I am not going to any of these, are you, do you know anyone who is? Who are these people who go to all these alleged festive parties?</p>
<p>Hover boards. Am I the only one who can see that the so called Hover boards on sale this year are actually nothing of the sort? I’m sorry but I would expect a hover board to be like the one on Back to the Future, i.e. hovering above the ground. These Alleged Hover boards have wheels and are in contact with ground. Using the same logic as the manufacturers then I am driving a hover car and hover bikes are everywhere. Clever marketing but sadly wrong.</p>
<p>Speaking of marketing, new Star wars film seems to be generating a lot of interest, lost on me to be honest. I saw the first on when it came out back in ’77? Did nothing for me and never watched any more of them. Each to their own though, a lot of people like them. With all the merchandise it is going to make a lot of money.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p>Well as you know I went to see Bernie Tormé recently. I have seen Bernie many times and he does seem to be slightly increasing his profile these days although I doubt he will ever be as well-known as he was in the early 80s when he was with Ian Gillan. Over the years I have seen him play in small pubs where I have been one of sometime less than ten people watching which I find (and I am sure he does) a bit disappointing really given the man’s pedigree. Vocalists like Ian Gillan, Dee Snider, Ozzy Osbourne, even Gary Bardens and Phil Lewis can all pretty much choose whoever they want to be their guitarist and all of these have chosen Bernie in the past.</p>
<p>I admit his sound is not for everyone but aren’t loud electric guitar based songs and extended solos what rock is all about? J</p>
<p>Following a rehearsal the other day we ended up having a chat about Jethro Tull so when stuck in a long traffic jam the day after I dialled them up on my IPod. I never was and never will be a huge fan but I will say one thing for Tull, they definitely have their own sound and genre and I can take it in small doses.</p>
<p>Sadly following another birthday I appear to have reached the age where some rock stars have actually lived and died without me even knowing about them. Scott Weiland died recently and it seemed to be a big thing to a lot of people if social media is any indicator. I am sorry to say I had no idea who he was. Turns out he was the singer for the Stone Temple pilots and also in Velvet Revolver with Slash. Tragic when people die in their forties of course but I have to confess to having never knowingly listened to either of those bands.</p>
<p>Speaking of tragic I was listening to “Free Live” the other day. He wasn’t fast but the way Paul Kossof played his guitar was with total passion and emotion. You can almost feel him wringing or wrenching every note out of it. To me that is much better than the likes of Yngwie Malmsteen whizzing all over the fret board at the speed of light. It’s a funny thing actually that whenever there is a top 10 guitar solo poll (which more often than not are popularity polls) the speed merchants rarely get a mention. It is usually the likes of David Gilmour, Paul Kossoff, Joe Walsh, and Brian May etc. that are at the top. Tasteful melodic solos rather than a meaningless flurry of notes.</p>
<p>So what am I listening to? Well I am as usual struggling to find something new which I find interesting enough to listen to a few times. Black Stone Cherry seem to be the newest band I don’t mind. Can’t seem to find any others though.</p>
<p>To be honest I am flitting here there and everywhere between my IPod and a variety of radio stations including Planet rock, Smooth and Radio 2.</p>
<p>One minute is Tyrannosaurus Rex the next it’s Halford, Montrose, Tears for Fears, Hawkwind, the Sweet, or anything on the radio.</p>
<p>Very unsettled really.</p>
<p>I see the Darkness have decided they should describe themselves as a Glam Rock band. Marketing again. Well I am sorry but they are not and that boat sailed in ’75. They are an ok band and they are quite fun which is good, personally I find Justin Hawkins falsetto voice very irritating after one or two numbers so I wouldn’t buy an album but again that is just my taste,</p>
<p>It’s not for me to criticise other musicians and entertainers but I do wonder who listens to guitarist Ted Nugent. Some rock radio stations seem to insist on playing the rather tedious “Stranglehold” quite regularly and the other day one of them played the really awful “Wango Tango”. Cat Scratch Fever is ok but basically who are Ted Nugent’s fans? I assume he does still sell concert tickets in-between his sickening hunting trips and spouting his outdated macho opinions on American TV but I for one wouldn’t bother. I seem to remember that many years ago I borrowed the “Free for all” album (from my good friend Neil Tudor I think) and seem to recall the only decent song on it was called Hammer down. If memory serves correct the vocals on the album were all actually sung by a relatively unknown pre-bat out of hell vocalist called Meatloaf. He was definitely the only good thing about the album. Later albums saw Nugent return to the vocals which didn’t help at all. I am sure there are fans out there but the radio stations could find better songs to fill 4-5 minutes I am sure. Should this have been in Rants?</p>
<p>Not entirely unexpected once the money starts flowing but Ritchie Blackmore is now considering playing more “Rock” dates. No doubt there will be one nearer than Birmingham now that I have it all booked. Still, you can’t rely on what might happen can you.</p>
<p>Ok that is about it</p>
<p>As I said earlier</p>
<p>Hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we will back to “Rock for You” in 2016.</p>
<p>We should have the next single in the can by the next Update so will let you know the details then.</p>
<p>Until then</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/829/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/829/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=829&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905102015-12-08T20:27:00+00:002019-10-25T11:22:24+01:00Pe Ultimate gig this year and it is Local on Wirral!<p>Well it’s time for another update.</p>
<p>The main information being</p>
<p>Only our second local (Wirral) gig in 30 months</p>
<p><u><b>Saturday 12</b></u><sup><u><b><span style="font-size:small;">th</span></b></u></sup><u><b> December</b></u></p>
<p><b>The West Kirby Tap</b></p>
<p>West Kirby</p>
<p>9:00pm Start. (Note there is an 11pm live music curfew at this venues so we will be starting at 9:00pm prompt)</p>
<p>Looking forward to this one. As you probably know we don’t get to play on Wirral very much (No we don’t know why either, you would need to ask the venues) these days and our first one for over two years was earlier this year at the West Kirby Tap. Not known for rock music we were a bit sceptical but actually it was a great gig and hence we were asked back. Hopefully this time will be even better and with it being December people may be in the Christmas mood?</p>
<p>This of course makes us wonder if we should actually include our Christmas song “It’s Christmas, Let’s have a good time” in the set? We have never actually played it live so should we spend time rehearsing it? We would love to hear your opinions about that. <a href="mailto:Clan-rock@virginmedia.com"><span style="color:#0563c1;">Clan-rock@virginmedia.com</span></a></p>
<p>What else, well our last gig was the three band event for HB promotions at Alexander’s in Chester. A night of original music from us, the shed spiders and Sly Fox. Not a bad night at all, not packed but maybe if it is run again it may fill up a bit more, can take a while for the word to get around. Good sets from all three bands and nice to hear something different.</p>
<p>We would be up for it again. Probably wasn’t great that the venue had been closed for a week having changed hands and also Pink Floyd tribute were playing locally as well but there is always something else happening. Personally, I would rather see three bands playing something original for a change than watch yet another tribute band play through the same old back catalogue of Floyd songs but that is my opinion and I am not stupid, I realise that familiarity sells.</p>
<p>Actually I have run out of time yet again.</p>
<p>I started writing this last week but just have not managed to continue it with things happening so quickly at the moment.</p>
<p>So I am going to cut it short and post as is given that the priority is to tell you all about Saturday. I promise I will provide a longer update soon.</p>
<p>Until then Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/825/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/825/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=825&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905112015-11-16T13:29:03+00:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Rock in Chester, Clan, Raven, Sly Fox, Shed Spiders, Alexander’s Live<p>Well time is catching me out again. Been a while since the last update.</p>
<p>Most important thing this week is</p>
<p><strong><u>Alexander’s Live</u></strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Rufus Court</u></strong></p>
<p><strong><u>CHESTER</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Friday 20<sup>th</sup> November</strong></p>
<p>8:00pm</p>
<p>£5 in advance £7 on door</p>
<p>Tickets from Alexander’s website or <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/livedates"><u>www.clan-rock.com/livedates</u></a> (PayPal only)</p>
<p>This is a three band gig with each band playing for an hour of which 75% of the material is to be original. A novel concept in this day and age but a chance for us and others to showcase our own songs. The other bands taking part are Sly Fox and the Shed Spiders. To maximise the audience the running order will not be determined until the night so if you want to guarantee seeing any specific band then you need to be there for 8:00.</p>
<p>If the night is successful then HB promotions may run it again on a regular basis.</p>
<p>Our other big event was our support slot to Raven at the Live rooms. A wet Wednesday night but it turned out be a really good one. We had to shorten our support slot as the other support band went on late however we managed to get a good rocking 35 minutes in and it was well appreciated by everyone there including the crowd, the promoters and the guys from Raven. Hopefully we can get some more support slots there. Raven were a good bunch of guys and we thoroughly enjoyed their set. Very entertaining, not too serious like us just up for a good time.</p>
<p>Since then we have returned to the New Inn Johnstown/Wrexham, been three years since we were last there. Seemed to go ok although Bonfire night, a new pub opening and other events locally may have reduced the audience slightly. We were told we would be rebooked in 2016.</p>
<p>Only three gigs left this year including this Friday. I did see a TBA at Birkenhead’s swinging arm for Sunday 29<sup>th</sup> Nov and let them know we are available. I will let you know if that comes about.</p>
<p><strong><u>Rants</u></strong></p>
<p>To be honest I am not sure I really have the time to put any down this week.</p>
<p>With all the world events my minor irritations seem a bit trivial to be honest.</p>
<p>Have to take a rain check on that one.</p>
<p><strong><u>Music</u></strong></p>
<p><strong><u> </u></strong></p>
<p>Managed to catch Bernie Tormé in Liverpool last week. I was a bit disappointed we didn’t get the support slot but then when I arrived and discovered it was an upstairs venue my disappointment soon disappeared.</p>
<p>Enjoyed the gig although not too keen on the acoustic number, still it was a bit different.</p>
<p>Managed to acquire my Blackmore’s Rainbow tickets for next June. Looking forward to that one as might be the last Rock gig Ritchie ever plays. A lot of discussion over the members of the band but to be honest I have seen Ritchie numerous times over the last 39/40 years and apart from two Deep Purple gigs he has never had the same band twice.. Given his reputation for good players he is not going to have substandard musicians is he?</p>
<p>So until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/822/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/822/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=822&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905122015-10-18T10:36:11+01:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Raven, Blackmore, Tormé, Southport, Chester.<p class="western">Well we have a bit of a lay off for the next few weekends as we are all busy doing other things. We do however have a mid-week gig when we support legendary New Wave of British Heavy metal (NWOBHM) Band RAVEN in Chester.</p>
<p class="western">We are in good company, Both Metallica and Anthrax supported Raven at one time and the lads from Newcastle have continued to rock non-stop ever since. They have just done yet another US Tour to support their latest album “ExtermiNation”.</p>
<p class="western">I am led to believe there is another support band on as well, Liverpool’s “Rain May Fall” so we don’t know the running order or the gear sharing situation yet. If you want to be sure of seeing us I would suggest being there at 7:00pm in case we are on first.</p>
<p class="western">As usual when doing such gigs it will be a 100% Clan originals set featuring songs from our latest live album, “This is a Thing Called..”</p>
<p>Wednesday 21st October</p>
<p>Chester Live Rooms</p>
<p>Near Chester Station</p>
<p>Onstage – Not sure could be as early as 7:00pm, I suspect Raven will be on at approx. 9:00.</p>
<p>Another perk of being the support act is that we have a limited number of tickets available at half price. So for £6.00 you can see three top notch rock bands – a bargain by anyone’s standards.</p>
<p>They are available on our web site at <span style="color:#0563c1;"><u><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/livedates">www.clan-rock.com/livedates</a></u></span> although you need a Paypal account.</p>
<p>Any difficulties drop us a line at <span style="color:#0563c1;"><u><a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a></u></span></p>
<p>Ok well that is the main info you need.</p>
<p>Last weekend? Well we finally arrived in Southport’s Fox and Goose after being delayed by the Firework Championships Traffic chaos. Fortunately it is a late start there 11pm so it wasn’t really an issue.</p>
<p>The gig was a good one, sounded a lot better to me than it did last time and that always helps. Decent sized crowd including our old friend Andy Wheale and his Dad who seemed to have a good time along with everyone else.</p>
<p>Only slight irritation was my guitar going off in the middle of “Give it all up” which is not really what you want. In cases like that there is a proven elimination process to follow in order to try and get it back on however this time it soon became apparent, as people told us, that some brainless chav had casually and deliberately pulled a cable out of the back of my gear as he passed by. We never did find him but we had our suspicions. Personally I was more concerned that running my amp without a speaker connected might have expensively damaged the output transformer as that is what can happen. Anyway, all seemed ok and we quickly resumed normal service determined not to let the action of one Neanderthal moron ruin everyone’s fun.</p>
<p>It was a late night of course by the time I got home and having to take a hire van back first thing on Sunday morning meant very little sleep. Still, I guess you get used to it although I was flagging by Sunday night.</p>
<p><u><b>Rants</b></u></p>
<p>Well the first one is computer work mysteriously disappearing when you have spent ages on it. This happened to this blog and I managed to recover a previous version which I am now editing and rewriting. Not impressed and a lot of time wasted.</p>
<p>Taxi drivers who don’t know where they are going. I must have mentioned this before but how do they get a taxi licence? I was in one the other day and apart from I am not even sure he was my taxi, he mumbled to himself throughout the journey, no he was not on a phone, he had no sat nav and he went the wrong way down a one way street! I then had to keep telling him when to turn left and right.</p>
<p>Toothpaste. Well I use Colgate Total which I would have thought covered everything having the word “Total” in it. Silly me, there are numerous versions of “total” plus a whole load of others: sensitive teeth, whitening, anti-bacterial etc. At least 23 versions of Colgate toothpaste and quite a few called Total. Same for other manufacturers of course. All about marketing I suspect.</p>
<p>Speaking of marketing I received a good offer through the post this week. BT broadband for £10 a month, ah yes but reading further there is also a line charge of £17.99 a month so that is actually £27.99 a month without call charges. To be fair they all use this marketing ploy but it does show you need to read the whole thing including the small print. As the saying goes” If something seems too good to be true it probably is”.</p>
<p><u><b>Music</b></u></p>
<p>Well the forthcoming Ritchie Blackmore Rock gigs, first one announced (Germany), are on my mind plus the release of a Blackmore Story DVD ;has made me watch a few Rainbow DVDs this week. Turns out I already have the Tokyo 84 gig that is being issued with the deluxe version of the “story DVD” so I can probably just get the standard release, knowing me I won’t though. Suspect my current Tokyo’84 DVD is a bootleg but it is good quality. Watching it right now actually.</p>
<p>I did read yesterday that there is likely to be a Blackmore gig in the UK so pennies at the ready. Bound to conflict with a prestige Clan gig of course <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-smile" title=":-)">:-)</span></p>
<p>in addition the upcoming Bernie Tormé gig in Liverpool is in my thoughts so been listening to some of his albums as well, not that I don’t know them inside out anyway. Still struggling with his new album though, just nothing jumping out at me as a stand out track. It is all standard Bernie stuff which is good but no tracks that make me say “I hope they play this one”.</p>
<p>Next time I write we will have done our Raven support slot so I will let you have a report.</p>
<p>Until then</p>
<p>Good health and Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/819/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/819/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=819&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905132015-10-14T21:26:32+01:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00RAVEN/The Clan- Chester Live Rooms – Wed 21st October – Half Price Tickets.<p><a href="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/clan-raven.jpg"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/clan-raven.jpg?w=300&h=225" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Clan - Raven" height="225" width="300" /></a></p>
<p>Yes it is true,</p>
<p>Legendary Rockers RAVEN are playing The Chester Live Rooms on Wed 21st October.</p>
<p>Even better – One of the Support acts is Wirral’s very own Good Time Feel Good Rock Band THE CLAN.</p>
<p>As Support act the Clan have a limited number of tickets available at half price £6 on a first come first served basis. Paypal accounts only at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/livedates" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com/livedates</a></p>
<p>Gonna be a rockin’ good night.</p>
<p><a href="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/clan-raven.jpg"> </a></p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/815/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/815/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=815&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905142015-10-02T22:52:23+01:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Southport, Bernie Torme, Slade, T.Rex, Wishbone Ash<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well here we go again</p>
<p>So as you all know (?) last week wee were at the wonderful Bath in Morecambe. A really cracking gig actually , better than usual which says it all as it always a good there.</p>
<p>This week we are back in Southport – Southport’s best live venue</p>
<p>Saturday Oct 3<sup><span style="font-size:small;">rd</span></sup></p>
<p>The Fox & Goose</p>
<p>Cable street</p>
<p>Southport</p>
<p>A late start at this one won’t be before 10:30 at the earliest.</p>
<p>What else this week – bit disappointed to have no response from Liverpool arts club about supporting Bernie Torme but heard by chance from an interview with Bernie that we won’t be. As “void” are the support band in Liverpool. No worries I will be at the gig anyway.</p>
<p>Anyway on a positive note , nice to see TBFM, great supporters of new and original music, included an interview I did with them on their web site and in their magazine. Check it out at</p>
<p><a class="western" href="http://tbfmonline.co.uk/craig-mcdonald-from-the-clan-chats-to-mucka/"><u><span style="color:#0000ff;">http://tbfmonline.co.uk/craig-mcdonald-from-the-clan-chats-to-mucka/</span></u></a></p>
<p>Sorry no time for rants this week – Rugby, waste of time media trying to drum up interest that really is not there.</p>
<p>People/venues who don’t respond to polite requests? Yes I appreciate they are busy and inundated but over a week?</p>
<p>People who are generally impolite . No need for it really, costs nothing to be polite even if giving out bad news.</p>
<p>Music</p>
<p>Well I have been listening to a lot of Wishbone Ash this week, always a good band, saw them a few times and we were at Cambridge rock with them last year. Some really nice guitar work.</p>
<p>So theta is it for this week – Short and sweet.</p>
<p>Until next time keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/812/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/812/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=812&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905152015-09-24T10:58:57+01:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Raven/Clan Tickets – Chester, The Clan – Morecambe, Return of Rants.<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Thursday already and another weekend almost upon us. So let’s get the commercials out of the way first</span></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Saturday 26<sup><span style="font-size:small;">th</span></sup> September</span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">The Bath</span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Morecambe</span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Lancs</span></b></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">The Bath is actually one of our favourite venues and we have played many times. I think we will give them a few new songs this time, they can take it. Looking forward to it. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Last week- Friday we played The Clwyd which during the two hours of Rugby preceding our set had about six customers. We needn’t have worried , by the time we were playing our second number the place was rammed full and stayed that way until the end of the encore. Don’t know where everyone appeared from but glad they did and it was a rockin’ night.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Not really done much else really, family stuff mainly. Some slight maintenance on my guitar leads and a few screws tightened up etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Still trying to lose weight but seem to have remained the same for a couple of weeks now, still better than gaining I suppose. Just keep trying.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">As always the weather is changeable although the sun has been out quite a bit. Very pleasant if you can find the right spot.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">I believe yesterday was the Autumn Equinox so the daylight is now officially shorter than the darkness and it is a steady descent into Winter. I don’t mind really, not sure I would want to live somewhere that is the same every day all year round. Wouldn’t mind trying it though, happy to be proved wrong.</span></p>
<p><u><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Rants</span></b></u></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Well the refugee crisis in Europe and generally appears to be getting worse. I think the people who are complaining about them need to realise how lucky they are to have been born and brought up be in a country where their lives are not constantly in danger or they have lost everything they had in some stupid war. Really though the solution to this is not to move the people around which is treating the symptoms. The cause needs to be addressed and the wars stopped. I have said it before, bombs, and ‘munitions cost money so someone is funding this and someone is selling them the weapons. Cut them off at source and it will soon end. You have to wonder why this has not happened already.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">This week we have the Volkswagen emissions scandal. Not being funny but really how many people bought an eco friendly diesel out of concern for the environment rather than the lower Road tax?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Sounds like China are in the running for major construction projects here in the UK. Power stations and the high speed rail link HS2 (which personally I think is a waste of time). It would appear therefore we either don’t have the skills or are far too expensive to build our own infrastructure. Bit pathetic really don’t you think. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">A lot of fuss this week over new new labour and Liberal Democrat leaders, all very boring to say the least. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Just let them do their jobs for a while and then we will talk about them. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">WH Smith inflating prices at their hospital outlets, should lose the concession I say. Give it to someone else. They do the same at Railway stations and airports I am sure.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Sunday papers – well the Mirror on Sunday has taken over from the News of the world for the weekly dose of scandal, gossip and general pointless trivia. Not a lot of point in me looking at it as to be honest I have no idea who most of the people are. Actually I really don’t care either.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">So it was half way through the week when I heard about Cameron and Pig gate. Well I don’t know how true it is but it shouldn’t really surprise anyone that well off hooray Henry 19 year olds form such secret societies whilst at Oxford/Cambridge. It’s what they do isn’t it?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Sad but true. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">I mentioned last week that the Rugby may disrupt a few gigs and that was the case last Friday. We set the gear up before kick off and then sat down to watch the “major event”. I lasted about ten minutes before I was bored out of my brain. I am sure some people enjoyed it but not many where I was as I alluded to earlier. Nearly two hours of my life I won’t get back.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">This Saturday is the “big one” apparently England/Wales. Yawn. At least the Bath does not really go in for sports events on TV.</span></p>
<p><u><b><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Music</span></b></u></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Hmm, spent a fair amount of time trying to sort out my Itunes. Seems a lot of my music library is stored on The cloud which is no good to me. Had to go through the whole library making everything available off line i.e. downloaded.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Another example of computers stealing my time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">I need a new computer as a recording studio really, my old one has died. Do I really need one though, I have the ability to knock up quick demos to play to Jim and Steve and I prefer recording in a proper studio anyway. It focuses you more when time is limited, it is also fun.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Speaking of which, I must progress a Pledge campaign to see if we can raise the funds to record a new album. Certainly worth a try.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Music listened to this week, Well Raven as we are supporting them in Chester, thought I had better check out their new album. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Speaking of which if anyone is looking for tickets to that Gig on 21<sup><span style="font-size:small;">st</span></sup> October at Live Rooms Chester, we have a limited number at half price (£6) so drop us a line at</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;"><a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com"><u><span style="color:#0066cc;font-family:Calibri;">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</span></u></a></span><span style="font-family:Calibri;">.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Other than that been chilling out to Paul Simon/Simon and Garfunkel. Classic and timeless songs really. Very few people who can’t appreciate them.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Until next week</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Keep rockin’</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Craig</span></p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/810/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/810/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=810&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/39905162015-09-17T12:34:40+01:002017-01-14T00:19:05+00:00Clwyd – Troyen – The Clan keep Rockin’<p class="western">I can’t believe how quickly time is going, once again no time for a full update</p>
<p class="western">
</p><p class="western"><u><b>Friday 18</b></u><sup><u><b><span style="font-size:small;">th</span></b></u></sup><u><b> September</b></u></p>
<p class="western"><b>The Clwyd Hotel</b></p>
<p class="western">Shotton</p>
<p class="western">N. Wales</p>
<p class="western">Start time – After the Rugby finishes – estimate 9:45pm</p>
<p class="western">Yes it is that time again when sport rears its ugly head and starts to disrupt gigs. To Be fair we were given a heads up yesterday that we will need to have set up before the match at 8:00 or during half time, like that is going to happen.</p>
<p class="western">Effectively it means we need to arrive earlier, set the gear up and then spend longer hanging about. What it also means is that the equipment will be minimal to reduce set up time so no backdrop, bass bins, lasers, haze machines etc. A bare bones gig really.</p>
<p class="western">It is however usually a good one in the Clwyd so we are looking forward to it. Might even persuade a few rugby fans to stay and watch.</p>
<p class="western">Last week we supported Troyen at Whittles in Oldham and it was a very good gig indeed. We played an hour long all original set and it was really well received by the sizeable audience. The lads from Troyen were great and all in all a good night had by all. More of that please.</p>
<p class="western">Until next week</p>
<p class="western">Keep Rockin’</p>
<p class="western">Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/808/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/808/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=808&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/36269962015-03-27T08:37:20+00:002018-09-10T12:48:04+01:00Richard, The Darker my Horizon and Wangies<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well this week it is really just a Gig promo. I have not been too well really so time has got away from me.</p>
<p>This week’s gig is</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 29<sup>th</sup> March</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Wangies</strong></p>
<p>Eccles</p>
<p>Onstage approx. 9:30</p>
<p>We have only played Wangies once before as a fill in for a cancellation, it went ok but for some reason we never returned, seems to happen quite a bit when you do cancellations which is one reason why we have stopped doing them. Hopefully this time it will go really well and we will get some repeat bookings. Sunday night?</p>
<p>At the end of the day we will deliver our Good time Feel good rock as we always do and it’s up to the audience whether they enjoy it or not, depends upon their expectations and musical preferences I guess. Let’s hope the van doesn’t smell of fish this week.</p>
<p>So apart from being ill this week I did actually lose 2lbs beforehand, a step in the right direction if not exactly a sprint.</p>
<p>As I mentioned last time I had cause to be in Leicester this week although I didn’t arrive until Wednesday. Can’t believe the fuss being that is made about Richard III. Leicester is obviously trying to boost itself as a tourist destination. Good luck with that.</p>
<p>I was slightly disappointed at having to miss seeing the Pat McManus band but then again I really wasn’t up to it. Sleeping definitely took priority and it was the right decision.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>OK so I mentioned Richard III. Nothing against him personally but really the pomp and ceremony that was created to go around what is effectively a PR exercise in pushing Leicester as a tourist destination was absurd. And I still haven’t forgiven them for making me having to stay in a hotel in the sticks rather than in town.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>This week a friend of mine Paul Stead released his new album. Paul is basically the driving force behind the band Sacred Heart who we first met when they were eon the same bill as us at Cambridge Rock Festival in 2011. For this new release Paul has changed the name of the band, for reasons best known to himself, to “The Darker my Horizon” and the album is called Acquiesce. He claims it has a more modern sound but having listened to it a few times it still sounds like Sacred Heart to me which is no bad thing.</p>
<p>Good album although I have still yet to recognise the individual tracks as I haven’t heard it enough. I couldn’t make it to the launch party last week but I believe he is trying to arrange some more live dates to promote it.</p>
<p>Check it out.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/779/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/779/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=779&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/36128412015-03-19T21:35:25+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00Pat McManus, Fish Vans and Richard III<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well it’s time for another update already.</p>
<p>We have no gigs this weekend; next one is our return to Wangies in Eccles – Sunday 29<sup>th</sup> March. More details next week.</p>
<p>Last week, as you all know, we played at the Witton Chimes in Northwich. A rather excellent night as it turned out although Adam the boss seemed to think it was not as busy as normal. Not sure whether he meant normal as in when we play there or normal as on most Saturday nights? It seemed busy to us but perhaps the bar takings were down? We also had to stop using the haze machine as apparently some other band had set the fire alarms off with theirs (presumably a smoke not a haze machine) recently. We have never had an issue there before but hey it’s not our pub so if they say no haze, then no haze it is. The PA kept popping as well but it is an in house one and apparently it always does it according to the regulars. Ultimately a good night was had by all, which is the whole point really.</p>
<p>The only downside for us was that the hire van had the added attraction of smelling like someone had been breeding hamsters or rabbits in it so liberal spraying with air freshener was employed on a regular basis.</p>
<p>I did mention it when I returned it and the response was “yes – a fishmonger hired it, we can’t get rid of the smell”. Hmm, still prepared to hire it out at full cost though? I am sure that some form of industrial steam cleaning would do the trick?</p>
<p>Anyway – what else – not a lot really. No weight loss or gain this week which was a slightly frustrating but I suppose no gain can be taken as a positive. Realistically there is not much chance of losing my target of a stone by the end of the month now unless I lose nearly 5lb a week for the next fortnight. I can’t see that happening.</p>
<p>My car failed to start again a couple of times last week leading to the inevitable purchase of a new battery late on Sunday afternoon; Jump starting is not always a viable option.</p>
<p>I have cause to be in Leicester next week and was horrified and quite disgusted to discover that the usual Premier Inn I stay at when in Leicester was asking £500 for four nights. I think that is outrageous for a Premier Inn although checking again in the hope it had decreased only indicated that it was fully booked.</p>
<p>The only explanation that comes to mind is that Richard III is being buried in the cathedral that week. I checked all the other hotels, Travel Lodge, Ibis etc. and they are all full as well, can’t believe that this non-event has had such an impact on the hotel rooms. Who are all the people staying in them? Presumably they are media people or people working on the various events, surely not tourists? Anyway I have found another hostelry slightly out of town with a realistic room rate.</p>
<p>I don’t know, dead for over 500 years and still causing trouble.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>Some people’s favourite part of this update and the hardest part for me to write, as I am not really a grumpy angry man. Well you may think differently of course.</p>
<p>I was wondering actually how these little blog things differ from what I read in Newspapers written by columnist? Surely a similar thing, maybe I could write one and get paid for it? Haha. Thing is, are they put in a paper deliberately be controversial and get people talking or are they put in there for people to agree with? The former I suspect.</p>
<p>It was St Patrick’s Day this week of course although for once I didn’t see much of a fuss being made about it. Normally a lot of people suddenly become Irish and seem to think that is an excuse to drink large amounts of Guinness?</p>
<p>Strangely St George’s day never seems to have the same impact however it’s not that far off. There seems to be an underlying fear of celebrating the day in England in case accusations of racism are levied which I have never understood.</p>
<p>I can’t remember if I have mentioned this before but singing on coaches – why? Certainly puts you off going on any organised coach trip.</p>
<p>Politicians are now appearing regularly on TV in the run up to the Election, no matter what they are asked they simply answer with the answer they planned to give, it is really a waste of time asking them anything. If you told them that 3-2 = 1 they would probably still give their carefully rehearsed answer and then tell you that actually this is not always the case, it depends how you look at it blah blah. Boring.</p>
<p>Why do Sunday papers provide a pull out football special yet still fill the back pages with football? It doesn’t make any sense. About as much sense as interviewing a foreign football Manager after a match.</p>
<p>Jeremy Clarkson seems to have disappeared from the news and for a good reason. He is really not that important. Anyone else who hits someone at work is likely to get sacked even if not on a “last warning” so there you go. I don’t mind the guy but you can’t bully people and actually if he never surfaces again (which I suspect he will) no one will remember him or care in a few months.</p>
<p>Speaking of not being remembered I was quite shocked to hear a young guy on “the Chase “the other day say he had never heard of Benny Hill. It kind of makes you realise how many people live within a time frame and have no interest in anything that came before. Are people less inquisitive these days or just certain types? They seem to learn everything from Google.</p>
<p>What is with the morons who go in a pub, buy one drink, drag a bar stool in front of the fruit machine and stay there all night, never buying another drink. Landlords must love them.</p>
<p>Whilst on the subject, ever sat watching a pub quiz machine when no one is using it? Easy aren’t they, you can answer every question. Watch someone put money in it though and suddenly the level changes haha – mugs game, entertainment only.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>Next week I am going to see Pat McManus, basically for something to do as it beats hanging about for another night in a hotel room. I last saw him in 1985 when he was in the Mama’s boys; they played the Deep Purple reunion day at Knebworth. I didn’t know much about them but they were ok as I remember. So I have been checking him out and downloaded a recent album Walking through Shadows.</p>
<p>It’s not too bad at all. If you like Rory Gallagher and Gary Moore you will probably like it although to be fair it is not quite at their level. I am not comparing him to them due to the Irish connection; it is just that they are who he reminds me of.</p>
<p>He should be good live though; apparently there may be some fiddle playing as well as the guitar so that is a bit different.</p>
<p>My old friend Bernie Tormé is very active currently. No doubt due to the success of his pledge funded album Flowers and Dirt last year he is repeating the process. So that will be two albums in two years.</p>
<p>I can’t see it being much different to the last one though. To pledge or not to pledge, that is the question</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/777/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/777/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=777&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/35871562015-03-09T21:30:40+00:002021-03-16T10:52:08+00:00Witton Chimes, colds and broken cars.<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well here we go again. I don’t have a lot of time this week so it will be a fairly basic update.</p>
<p>This weekend we return to deliver our Good time Feel good Rock one of our favourite venues.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> March</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Witton Chimes</strong></p>
<p>Witton Street</p>
<p>Northwich</p>
<p>Cheshire</p>
<p>Approx 9:30</p>
<p>We have played the Chimes quite a few times now so we feel they know us well enough to recognise more of our original material in the set list. Watch out for that</p>
<p>A progress report on our band T-Shirt. Well it is still in the design phase but hopefully we will have them available in a few weeks.</p>
<p>Additionally we really must keep investigating Pledge music with a view to funding our next recordings of new material as well.</p>
<p>I had my weekly weigh in last Friday – lost another 2lbs, which is a step in the right direction. Will my end of March target be achieved? Watch this space. Three weeks left, should be possible.</p>
<p>Good job we didn’t play last weekend as I have been absolutely full of a cold, streaming eyes, nose running like a tap etc. I am feeling much better now so hopefully it will be fully cleared up by the weekend.</p>
<p>My car decided to develop a complete electrical failure last week 80 miles from home. Fortunately I could tell it was packing up and managed to get to a services rather than stopping at the side of a major road.</p>
<p>The result was being relayed home by the AA who dropped my car by my favoured garage ready for repair the next day before dropping me off at home. Excellent service really, no complaints from me at all.</p>
<p>Only moan being the cost to replace the faulty alternator that I could have done without but that’s car ownership for you.</p>
<p>This coupled with a cold was definitely not fun.</p>
<p>Anyway – I told you it was going to be a short one this week so that’s it really,</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/775/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/775/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=775&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/35602092015-02-26T18:58:45+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00Music, Rants and Stuff!<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well here we go again. No gigs to tell you about this week.</p>
<p>Last week we were in Coppull and to be honest we shouldn’t have played. We have said many times that we are trying to concentrate on playing venues where people specifically go to listen and watch live bands. The Springfield is not one of those however we decided to do it as we have played there quite a few times and it’s been ok, plus they asked us. Well it was apparent very early on that the large majority of people in there were there purely to drink and chat which I guess is fair enough, it is their local. So really it was our own fault for not sticking to our own policy. We did try hard to get some rapport going but it was a bit like flogging a dead horse and not a fun night.</p>
<p>The best part of the evening was that we finally have an idea (courtesy of Jim) for a T-Shirt. We just need to execute it now. We were all quite excited by it.</p>
<p>The other thing that was positive was that I played the boys three new song demos and they liked them all so that is good. I also have at least two more in the pipeline plus some reworkings of some of my older songs that I think will benefit from the Clan treatment. There are probably enough for an album if we had the time and money to record them all. Given that we have neither it is more likely there will be a couple of EPs this year.</p>
<p>I had my weekly weigh in last Friday – lost 3lbs, which I thought was a good start. Hopefully maintain that rate. Short-term target is to lose a stone by the end of March? I think that is a realistic target for now.</p>
<p>There are a few things being discussed re: some live gigs that I can’t tell you about at the moment but if they happen it will be quite exciting. I don’t want to jinx them though.</p>
<p>FYI – Our next live gig is on March 14<sup>th</sup> at the Witton Chimes – Northwich a proper music venue and one of our favourites.</p>
<p>Most of the rest of my week has been spent listening to new music about more of which below.</p>
<p>So here are a few <strong>Rants</strong></p>
<p>Stephen Fry, Alan Davies, Jo Brand, Rob Brydon etc. etc. – Yes all talented funny people but the amount of quiz and similar shows that they all seem to appear on together is getting a bit silly. Talk about keeping it in the clique. It actually gets to the point that you don’t really know which show you are watching as they all seem to have the same people on. A bit tedious really.</p>
<p>On Saturday my wi-fi router decided not to route and the solution was to set it back to factory settings. Fine except it then meant I had to spend time resetting every device in the house that connects to it, computers, phones, television etc. What a pain. Needless to say Sony entertainment still isn’t working (not sure why as the TV is connecting) and it looks as though I need to go on the website to get it sorted. Why is it that you never remember your password, request it to be reset which annoyingly includes having to decipher one of those “enter the word you see “ things, the password you want is never secure enough to meet the 25 characters including Chinese and Russian letters that they seem to require and is unlikely to be memorable.</p>
<p>When you finally reset it and try to login it tells you it is wrong! I think I will need a two-week holiday to get this sorted. All so I can have the pleasure of paying to watch a film.</p>
<p>Have people become less spatial aware these days? Especially when it is raining, I have nearly had my eyes poked out several times this week by umbrellas, the reason being that the users were too busy messing with phones and not watching where the umbrella was.</p>
<p>Speaking of rain I was walking along with my head down due to the rain and I became very aware of the amount of discarded chewing gum splodges on the pavements. Why are the disgusting people who do this unable to dispose of the stuff in a bin? It’s not difficult is it? I think it should be banned like in Singapore. Horrible stuff anyway.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>Well as I indicated last week three new albums were released on Monday.</p>
<p>Black Star Riders – The Killer Instinct</p>
<p>UFO –A Conspiracy of Stars</p>
<p>Scorpions – Return to Forever</p>
<p>I am pleased to report that they are all rather good. Lovin’ them all. Check out whichever you fancy.</p>
<p>What I do not like and I mentioned it last week is the current trend to include acoustic versions of some of the tracks already on the album as “Bonus Tracks”. Thunder did it last week and now The Black Star Riders have done it as well. Let’s hope this trend is short lived.</p>
<p>A lot of discussion this week about David Coverdale re-recording some of the Deep Purple tracks he wrote and sang on. Again is this a growing trend following Uli Jon Roth’s Scorpions album I mentioned recently? Unlike Uli who remained fairly true to the original versions Mr Coverdale has followed the Reworking route with his songs. His prerogative of course, it will be interesting to see how successful it is. I have only heard one track “Stormbringer” and I would say give me the original every time but others may disagree. No right or wrong here. You either buy it or you don’t.</p>
<p>I suppose in one way it may be a good way to introduce older songs especially album tracks to a new audience.</p>
<p>That’s it for this week</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/773/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/773/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=773&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/35433642015-02-19T21:21:15+00:002022-05-18T15:56:56+01:00Coppull, Kent Duchaine & Hammersound<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Hello everyone and I trust I find you in good health.</p>
<p>So how were your Valentine’s days? No doubt most of us know someone who went to see fifty shades of grey which from what I hear is nothing other than a cleverly marketed Mills & Boon.</p>
<p>Ok this week we are back on the road and Saturday’s chosen venue to receive our Good time Feel good rock is The Springfield in Coppull. Not specifically a music venue but we have played there several times and always had a good night so we are happy to do it again.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 21<sup>st</sup> February</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Springfield</strong></p>
<p><strong>Coppull</strong></p>
<p><strong>Lancs</strong></p>
<p><strong>Approx 9:30</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>I am writing this quite soon after the last one so not that much has happened really, a quiet family weekend really.</p>
<p>I finally summoned the courage to mount the scales on Friday night, not as bad as I thought but not far off. Still, at least I know where I am at and the scale of the weight loss required. The confirmation has increased my resolve to be honest. So weekly weigh in before eating on Friday evenings.</p>
<p>Not helped really by eating far too much meat in Hickory’s smokehouse on Sunday but I won’t be indulging again until next weekend.</p>
<p>As you all know I am a big fan of over the top rock shows: pyro, lasers, dry ice, smoke, etc. however I have to say that this week I went to see a guy who needs none of it. I have mentioned him before actually and this was my second time of seeing him. Never before have I been so entertained by one man simply standing there with his acoustic guitar. Call it charisma, talent whatever but I really have to say that Kent Duchaine is one of the best performers I have ever seen. I am not a huge fan (or I didn’t think I was) of Delta blues but the way this guy does it the only word I can use is spellbinding. He is such an unassuming approachable guy as well but his stories and presentation have to be seen. If you get the chance go and see him. He simply comes to the UK a couple of times a year from his home in Georgia and travels around guitar in hand playing anywhere that will have him as much as he can. Best thing I have seen for a long time.</p>
<p>I must give a mention to “support” act Dr X as well. An extremely unlikely Guitar – drum/percussion duo, the guitarist playing a variety of cheap guitars including one with three strings and on the final track of their set a guitar (?) with one string. The percussionist only really used a bass drum and his seat. A little bit inspired by Seasick Steve I suppose but thoroughly entertaining and watchable if not exactly making me want to buy their CD. They were definitely different.</p>
<p>Interestingly (for me anyway) I got in touch with original “Sinner” bass player John Bruce this week via my good friend Keith Thompson who I didn’t know was a mutual friend. John only played one gig with the band (1979) but it was the first one and he stepped in at very short notice when Don Major quit six weeks before it? I was away for three weeks prior to the gig so John learnt the entire set from a cassette and we never actually had a rehearsal as far as I recall. Considering this background it all went very well although it wasn’t the most virtuoso performance in history. Anyway he is still involved in music full time and teaches at a Rock school in Cornwall I think. It is nice to say hello.</p>
<p>That made me look back, it’s been a long time since 1979 and it got me thinking about some things that have changed and some that haven’t. I have seen many music venues come and go and also many music shops at which point I think I should mention Hammersound in Birkenhead. Not as famous as Hessey’s in Liverpool which itself is long gone of course but to people like myself and many other Wirral musicians it has been a constant fixture for nearly 40 years. I was at school when it opened and I remember hearing whispers and rumours that there was new music shop where they would actually let you hold a Fender Stratocaster or a Gibson Les Paul. Previously the only place selling such expensive items in Birkenhead was the rather old fashioned Rushworths music shop which although Liverpool based had a concession in Robbs Dept. Store. They had a Fender Stratocaster on the wall for a long time but it was never to be touched by mere schoolboys. Hammersound realised that schoolboys grow up to be the customers of the future.</p>
<p>It moved from its original Grange Mount shop (opposite what was then the popular motor cycle shop – Mike Weston’s – Now gone as well) to its current location in Grange Road West a long time ago but Dennis (and I think Brian still works there) is still there. Over the years it has served me well, I often hired PA systems from them, had amplifiers repaired and bought a few guitars and amps in addition to lights, strings and all the other paraphernalia required by us musicians. I actually acquired my main Strat from there in 1978.</p>
<p>These days it can’t really compete with the big chains like Dawsons who are able to stump up the thousands of pounds required by Fender and Marshall for stock thus allowing them to be authorised dealers, I suspect the internet doesn’t help their business either but although other shops may be the flavour of the month Hammersound is still my favourite music store and whenever I can I will always support them by putting my requirements their way first.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>I am still not very happy with banks although this probably applies to anywhere with a call centre. I spent considerable time (= money) attempting to get through in relation to a query this week. Over 25 minutes before actually speaking to someone only to then be told “you have come through to the wrong dept.” and being passed on to a further three people before having my query resolved. I have to wonder if they and other call centres see this chargeable waiting time as an additional revenue stream.</p>
<p>Doctors being closed on a Saturday – somewhat inconvenient for people that work away from home all week and surely an outdated concept in this day and age.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>Well as I indicated last week the new Thunder album – Wonder Days is now out. I downloaded it on Sunday and although I have only listened to it a couple of times so far I have to say it’s not bad at all. Sounds very much like their debut album “Backstreet Symphony” but then isn’t that what we want from a Thunder album. Personally what I don’t really want are bonus tracks that are acoustic versions of tracks on the album but I guess I will be in the minority. I will just leave them unchecked so they don’t load to the IPod. Actually one of them sounds to my ears like Oasis which can never be a good thing J</p>
<p>What I do like about Thunder is the fact that they actually write songs and melodies rather than just shout indecipherably over a riff. So yes – more in the Bad Company, Bryan Adams field of rock but rock nonetheless and good rock at that.</p>
<p>I would recommend checking it out.</p>
<p>Speaking of checking things out I had a listen to the latest Robin Trower album the other day. Now I am a big fan of Robin’s guitar playing, it is very tasteful and melodic but personally I am not too keen on his singing. Nothing wrong with it really but I prefer it when he uses a vocalist such as Dave Patterson however on this album he does all the singing himself. It also seems to be a very blues influenced album so this time around it’s not for me.</p>
<p>Next week there are three releases on Monday – Black Star Riders, UFO and Scorpions.</p>
<p>I will be like a kid in a sweet shop.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/771/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/771/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=771&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/35257312015-02-12T17:50:03+00:002022-04-22T18:28:08+01:00Bolton gig, Uli Jon Roth – Scorpions revisited review and more.<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Right its St Valentine’s Day on Saturday so no gigs this week, a chance to spend some quality time with the ones we love.</p>
<p>Last week as you know we were in Bolton at “the Venue Bar”; the second time there for us and we were looking forward to it as it was really quite good last time.</p>
<p>Well apart from their PA having being re-arranged meaning that a large section of it was behind us (?) It all went very well.</p>
<p>An enthusiastic large crowd and they were very appreciative. No further bookings there at the moment but I am sure we will be back.</p>
<p>No issues with equipment or my hand this time either which was a relief.</p>
<p>A foggy trip home but at least it was not icy.</p>
<p>There is still plenty of time for that to change though.</p>
<p>Advance notice we are back in Coppull (The Springfield) on Saturday 21<sup>st</sup> Feb.</p>
<p>I still haven’t been on the scales but really must get round to it, how bad can it be?</p>
<p>Still nothing happened on the T-shirt design? I need to follow up a couple of leads from friends.</p>
<p>Our Clan banner has been located; we did leave it in Southport. Just need to recover it now.</p>
<p>Not a lot else has happened really, still need to get around to recording the vocals on the new songs, tried this week but the built in mic on the portable recorder is not very good, I will plug a proper mic in next week. Not sure about how loud one can sing in a hotel room?</p>
<p>Just keep them quiet so the lads can identify where the vocals fit in the song, only song sketches after all, they will be recorded properly if they are considered suitable.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>I know many of you like to read my rants but I am really pretty chilled at the moment and don’t really have any. Yes I could moan about TV but I do that on a regular basis.</p>
<p>One thing I will say is what are some companies thinking when they approve their TV commercials? Some of them are just annoying or plain weird and actually you don’t even know who or what they are advertising.</p>
<p>ITunes annoyed me yesterday, I normally sync my IPod to a computer at home but yesterday I wanted to add an album I had downloaded to my laptop. It wouldn’t let me unless I wiped the IPod and loaded only what was on the laptop (not a lot). Not an option so now I will have to wait until I can get to my home computer put the album on that and then sync. I find that somewhat frustrating.</p>
<p>Bank accounts – if you want to open a new one be prepared for a long wait. Gone are the days when you went into a branch and spoke to someone. Now you have to fill in a very long application form which if online may then be sent to you for a signature and then you wait whilst they check with some higher deity (or various credit reference agencies) that you do actually exist and are worthy to have an account. Unless you need to I would seriously say don’t bother.</p>
<p>Hmm, I have just had another phone call about my recent accident (???). These really should not be allowed, along with PPI and other similar cold calls. Always at some inconvenient time as well not that there is ever a convenient time for these pointless contacts. I know this gives employment to people but that is about its only useful purpose.</p>
<p>Competitions – yes they are open to everyone I agree but why people enter them when they really have no interest in the prize I don’t know. Case in point – last week a guy on the radio won a 5CD + 1 DVD box set of Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow which to a Blackmore fan is a really good prize as it costs about £50 and contains rare tracks etc. When asked if he liked the band he kind of shrugged (difficult to see on the radio but you could tell) and you just knew that he is never going to listen to all of these. So why did he enter, presumably to hear himself on the radio and put the prize on eBay. It didn’t help of course that the question he had to answer to win had nothing to do with the prize. It happens all the time and really for people who would really like to have the prizes, to have them won by people with no interest is incredibly annoying. Still, it’s a free world and let’s face it the radio company just want everyone’s email addresses and phone numbers.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>New Thunder album – Wonder Days is out on Monday 16<sup>th</sup> – Sounds pretty good from what I have heard so far.</p>
<p>As I mentioned last week Uli Jon Roth has recorded some of his old Scorpions back catalogue and released it as “Scorpions Revisited”. Just to clarify, Uli was the guitarist in the band for five albums up to about 1978/9.</p>
<p>After he left the band changed direction and became far more commercial generating huge success during the 80s. This probably would not have happened if Uli had stayed as although the songs he did with them also had the great melodies and tunes that the Scorpions do so well the emphasis was far more on the guitar work which to be fair can be an acquired taste.</p>
<p>So what do we get in this album? Pretty much the same songs he played on his recent Scorpions 40<sup>th</sup> anniversary tour, i.e. pretty much the best songs from the studio albums he appeared on. A subjective statement of course and we will all have our own favourites that are not included (Top of the bill being one of mine) but there are 19 tracks recorded here of which only one is new.</p>
<p>There is always an air of trepidation when approaching albums of re-recorded songs that you have been listening to frequently for nearly 40 years. Are they going to be complete re-workings, inferior re-recordings or something else?</p>
<p>Well to my relief Uli has stayed pretty true to the originals reproducing the same guitar parts almost note for note in most cases. He has added harmony guitar parts to some and occasionally he uses his 36 fret Sky guitar to reach high notes that are probably more audible to dogs than to me which makes me wonder if such a fret board is really necessary. Some songs have been slightly extended, Dark Lady for instance now clocks in at 8 minutes as opposed to the original 4 due to what sounds like a jam session in the middle but it is none the worse for that.</p>
<p>I suppose the elephant in the room here is what is the point of this or in fact any other albums of similar ilk. Well I know that one reason is the performance royalties can be better managed to benefit the main performer, although I am not saying that this is Uli’s motivation here. Obviously the recording techniques today are different so some might say that the sound is clearer or crisper but again that is subjective.</p>
<p>Personally given that I have all the original versions of these songs and they are so burnt into my brain I am not convinced I needed this but I bought it anyway out of curiosity. The one new song, a rather nice instrumental prequel to “Fly to the Rainbow” I do like but is it worth buying the entire album for?</p>
<p>In summary I would say if you have the original Uli Scorpions albums you don’t need this but if you haven’t it is a good representation of his work with the band and worth having in your collection of top class electric guitar players.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/769/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/769/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=769&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/35059602015-02-04T19:00:36+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00Bolton, Southport, Album reviews and more TBFM<p>Band Homepage <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Another one already, less than a week since the last one!</p>
<p>Ok here’s the info some of you want</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 7<sup>th</sup> February</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Venue Bar</strong></p>
<p>Bolton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Second time for us and we are looking forward to it as it was really quite good last time. No haze or smoke machines allowed unfortunately so there is no point in taking the lasers.</p>
<p>Last Saturday we played the very excellent Fox and Goose in Southport. All went very well, nice crowd and once again excellent hospitality. Back there in May. Rather annoyingly my guitar lead decided to stop working for the sound check, it worked when I did my equipment test, so that took some time to fault find. It was confusing as my guitar tuner was still working which implied the lead was fine but the Bad cat was having none of it? Still we got there in the end.</p>
<p>That is the second Fender guitar lead to fail on me recently and they aren’t particularly cheap. I won’t be buying those again.</p>
<p>The only other concern was I developed cramp again in my left had about four songs from the end, which is a bit worrying. When your fingers decide to lock into some weird shape and you can’t actually move them. Amazing how you can find ways around it but not a lot of fun. Took quite a while to recover actually even after we had finished. Not the first time this has happened either.</p>
<p>Hmm, seem to have misplaced our CLAN banner as well, possibly left it behind on Saturday. Trying to track it down otherwise we will have to get another produced. Not too expensive but it would be preferable to retrieve the one we have.</p>
<p>This week we have been played again on TBFM Internet radio – “Tales from the Padded cell” show hosted by Marcus. They are plugging us quite a bit, which is good. On a personal level I was just quite chuffed to have one of our songs played on the same show that also played a Bernie Tormé song in the same session. I’m easily pleased.</p>
<p>So what else can I tell you, encountered a bit of snow on my travels but nothing to cause any problems. I suspect we will be seeing more though.</p>
<p>I have finally managed to kick myself into some form of healthier eating regime recently in my quest to lose weight. Is it working? Not sure, I suppose I need to get weighed so at least I know where I am starting from, probably a good idea even if I don’t like the figures on display.</p>
<p>Having said that just a quick mention about pub grub. I tend to travel around quite a bit so often end up eating food in restaurant chains, I have done them all, Wetherspoons, Harvesters, Hungry horse etc. etc. and generally I would say that for what you pay they are fine. Not great for the weight and health perhaps (hence the above paragraph) but certainly edible and serve their purpose.</p>
<p>Just recently however I had cause to eat in a “Fayre & Square”, a new one for me, and I have to say it was absolutely abysmal. Thinking I may just have been unlucky the first time I stupidly returned a couple of days later and it was just as dire. The menu looked ok apart from the fact that if you are on your own no price offers apply, however the quality of the food was really bad. I won’t say where this particular restaurant was as perhaps others in the chain are better but basically the damage is done. I won’t be setting foot in one again. I had a similar experience with Miller and Carter steakhouses a couple of years ago – two different restaurants, both extremely poor service. Never even considered going in to one of those again.</p>
<p>Still no inspiration for a band T-shirt, anyone who thinks they can help out please feel free to email us, <a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a>. Just looking for something that will appeal to people enough to make them want to buy it; doesn’t have to mention the band on the front (we will put the text logo on the back) but will hopefully become synonymous with the band as a brand, similar to the Rolling stones’ Lips logo, Motorhead’s logo, The Ramones logo or even the Target/RAF Roundel that identifies the Who.</p>
<p>Now here’s a thing – I was informed this week that Virgin are selling out their broadband and eventually other services to talk talk and that in approx. 12 months their email service will disappear. What a pain. Not only will a lot of people need to acquire a new email address but all the companies that the address is registered with will need to be informed and who will have to do that? Not Virgin that’s for sure. Rapidly losing respect for Mr Branson to be honest.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>Bought a copy of Classic Rock this week although as is usual the light in hotel rooms is too dim to read it properly. I mentioned Thunder constantly reforming last time and sure enough they have a special live album given away with the magazine plus a glowing 8/10 review inside. Nice PR if you can afford it. Not knocking the band, I would love to be in their position but it does demonstrate how the industry works.</p>
<p>Good reviews for Black Star Riders and UFO’s new albums as well so looking forward to getting my hands on those this month.</p>
<p>Another favourite of mine Uli Jon Roth has re-recorded some of his old Scorpions songs so looking forward to that one as well.</p>
<p>A good time for music in my book even if it is the old guard.</p>
<p>Live – the best festival this year looks like the Ramblin’ man fair in July – scorpions, Blue Oyster Cult, Dream Theatre, Saxon (I think), Camel, Marillion and others</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/767/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/767/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=767&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/34944342015-01-29T18:23:41+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00Clan gigs, Foghat and Lillyhammer.<p>Band Homepage <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Another update, not sure about what but I am sure I will manage something.</p>
<p>Well it was a shame we were not able to play the Duke of York in Eccles a couple of weeks ago, I did hear on the grapevine that a band did play on the Saturday but that was for the Landlady’s “leaving “do”. Still every cloud has a silver lining, we have been booked to play at Wangies which is also in Eccles.</p>
<p>Next up for us is Southport – Fox & Goose on the 31<sup>st</sup>, this Saturday. A rather good venue actually, we had a good night last time we were there.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 31<sup>st</sup> January</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Fox and Goose</strong></p>
<p>Cable Street</p>
<p>Southport</p>
<p>I am not sure why but we have had an influx of members to the Clan on our website who will all receive this and other updates of course. Welcome everyone.</p>
<p>Thanks To Wirral music supporter Diane Tremarco as well, she featured us on her <a href="http://www.getoutmore.me/">www.getoutmore.me</a> website and also in the Wirral news. Diane used to run the Wirral Buzz Magazine for many years until it closed so she is familiar with pretty much anyone who plays around the Wirral.</p>
<p>Well I presume the nights are drawing out a bit now given we are almost at the end of January but I can’t say as I have noticed. Snow and ice seem to be on the cards as well not that I am complaining after all it is winter so it is to be expected. None of this encourages people to leave their houses and go to gigs of course although I think I can understand that.</p>
<p>After being totally engrossed in Breaking Bad last year I was looking for something to replace it in my viewing schedule. A difficult act to follow of course but I have found Lillyhammer which I am enjoying. It stars Guitarist Steve Van Zandt, best known for playing in Bruce Springsteen’s band, as a mafia fixer who is on witness protection in Norway. An unlikely setting but it is quite humorous and enjoyable. Even the fact that a lot of it is subtitled doesn’t detract. Apparently he played a similar part in the Sopranos but I never saw that.</p>
<p>I have been discussing our next information video with Dave (who films and produces them) and we think we have a subject. Watch this space. We will probably film the band playing live in the studio at the same time.</p>
<p>Bit short of time this week so no Rants, apologies as I know some of you like these.</p>
<p>Musically</p>
<p>Well the First Widowmaker CD finally turned up and it is better than the second one. Mainly as some of the songs are recordings of songs on the Desperado CD plus some songs written for Desperado (By Dee and Bernie) but never recorded. I’ll stick to the Desperado album though.</p>
<p>Another album I heard again after a long time is Gun’s Taking on the world (1988). Still sounds good. They are probably best known for a rocking version of cameo’s Word up although that is not on the album. Coincidentally I did hear they are playing somewhere shortly.</p>
<p>Now I like the band Thunder or their first album Backstreet Symphony anyway. I saw them on the tour for it and they were good. Certainly better than their much lauded offshoot “The Union” who we supported in Buckley.</p>
<p>What does annoy me however is the amount of times they have “split up” and reformed. It is getting silly. Why can’t they just admit they still exist but don’t play much other than presumably lucrative festivals? It is very confusing for the fans.</p>
<p>Danny the singer was supposed to have given it all up to be an agent but that didn’t last long, they are now recording a new album?</p>
<p>So what is my favourite listen of the week?</p>
<p>Good old Foghat live. Only 6 tracks but they are all classic driving boogie. Loved this album the first time I heard it a long time ago and never get bored of it. I have other live Foghat albums but this is the best for me.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/765/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/765/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=765&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/34577312015-01-08T19:14:26+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00UFO, Black Star Riders, Clan and Pressing buttons<p>Band Homepage <a href="https://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/wp-admin/www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well here we are again. 2015.</p>
<p>First thing to say is that we had a great night in Leigh, Lancashire last Saturday, and our first gig of the year at the Musketeer. It was very enjoyable, good hospitality and an appreciative crowd. We look forward to returning.</p>
<p>Our next gig which was to have been on 16<sup>th</sup> Jan has been cancelled due to the landlady being given her notice, shame as it was supposed to be a good venue and another new one for us. Happening quite frequently these days unfortunately, not sure I would want to be in the pub trade.</p>
<p>On a more positive note I am hoping we can continue to build on the highs we had at the end of last year with TBFM supporting us and several other high profile people also championing us on various radio shows. Of course everyone that supports us is crucial as without your support we won’t get the bookings; generally venues are interested in the number of people spending money to fill their bank accounts not necessarily the merits of the band, we can’t blame them for that. So if everyone could continue to push for us to appear at your local venues, share our postings, like our FB page, re-tweet our tweets etc. then it you may be quite surprised at how quickly the numbers of supporters will increase. It is one thing for us to tell people how amazing and brilliant we are (haha) but if it is other people spreading the word then it carries far more weight and kudos. It only takes a couple of seconds to click “share” or “like” but the way things are these days this is what promoters etc. use to judge the popularity of a band.</p>
<p>So expect to see us pushing hard this year with both new music and more merchandise etc .I am still working on the elusive T-shirt design. In addition we hope to play a few more high profile gigs so keep watching the web site and reading our announcements on Facebook and Twitter, you don’t want to miss anything.</p>
<p>Currently I think it is likely to be April before we can find the time to get into the studio.</p>
<p>Time flies and you may be astounded to hear that the band has been playing for almost five years now during which we have managed to build a good reputation for the quality of our shows and our own music. It takes time but if something is worth doing we will continue to persevere. It’s never easy and it may be my optimism but I do feel like we are getting somewhere at last. Not sure where, but somewhere.</p>
<p>Speaking of persevering I find it mindboggling that it is now 36 years since I played my first “proper” gig. Many things in the business have changed since then but some have remained the same – I still love playing live, there still seems to be an audience for Good time feel good rock despite the numerous musical trends that have come and gone over the time and unfortunately the equipment is still just as heavy. But will I stop? No – that is unlikely whilst I can still physically do it. Ultimately it won’t be the playing that stops me it will be the inability to cope with transporting the gear at which point I will focus on recording but it won’t be the same. Anyway – I see no reason why this should not be quite some time in the future as long as I can keep healthy.</p>
<p>Right what else – well I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year. I had a nice break doing not a lot to be honest. Christmas was family time and New Year’s Eve was spent watching the Queen concert and the London fireworks on the TV. I thoroughly enjoyed both actually; hey do I know how to party or what? Not too sure about the music that accompanied the fireworks, the individual tracks were ok but whoever edited/mixed it had made a right hash of it to as far as my ears could tell.</p>
<p>Enjoyed a bit of snow on Boxing day but really my festive break consisted pretty much of eating and sleeping, didn’t even drink much alcohol.</p>
<p>Along with the rest of the world January will be the start of an attempt to lose weight and detox. Think I will draw the line at joining a gym though, I don’t do gyms.</p>
<p>Had a positive start today, won a signed copy of the new Paul Raymond (Chicken Shack, Savoy Brown, UFO) CD on a phone in to Planet Rock radio this morning. I was hoping to be able to plug the band on the air but sadly the opportunity never arose. Ah well, can’t win them all, I must be slipping.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>Have you ever noticed how when you are in a lift (elevator) , people getting in will press the button for their chosen floor even if it is already lit? In a similar way when waiting to cross the road people will often press the button to change the lights even if the Wait sign is already lit up. Is this because people don’t believe the button has been pressed even though it is illuminated or is it because they believe that pressing it again actually makes a difference? As far as I know once it is pressed it has done its job and pressing it again has no effect. There must be something in the human psyche that makes us do this. Like touching to see if paint is actually wet when there is a sign that says it is.</p>
<p>Something else I have noticed about lifts is how ignorant some people are; surely it is common sense to let people get out of a lift before trying to get into it or is that just me?</p>
<p>I see the politicians are starting their election campaigns, all very boring and I suspect most people already know how they are going to vote anyway so is it a huge waste of money? Does anyone believe what they say? I suppose it is just as well some people do have an interest in being in politics as someone needs to be running the country but personally I can’t think for the life of me why. A desire to make improvements or is it a power trip?</p>
<p>As regular readers will know I am not a great fan of football but I appreciate that I am probably in the minority. What I do object to is the emphasis placed on football within news programs. Football results and the showing of goals are <strong>not</strong> news in my opinion and should be reported elsewhere preferably on a sports channel.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>I was just thinking about the fact that I haven’t really heard any new music of interest recently and then lo and behold I discover that two bands I like quite a lot are to release new albums on the same day in February; 23<sup>rd</sup> I believe.</p>
<p>UFO are to release their” A Conspiracy of Stars” album and Black Star Riders are releasing their new album “The Killer Instinct”. I am already looking forward to obtaining both.</p>
<p>A question though, I wonder, do we get given too much information in advance these days? Both albums have the track listings published already and no doubt there will be previews of a few of the tracks etc. on the radio stations. Personally I would prefer a bit of mystique as it increases anticipation and makes obtaining the album a far more exciting experience. It’s a bit of a let-down if you have heard most of it beforehand.</p>
<p>FYI – The Black Star Riders are touring the UK in March together with Swedish rockers –Europe. I may try and catch a date on that.</p>
<p>The First Widowmaker CD which I ordered from Ebay well before Christmas never arrived which was disappointing. The seller says it was sent and he is happy to refund the money however the point really is that I was keen to hear it. Not as keen as I was initially having heard the below par second album but still interested.</p>
<p>So in the absence of that appearing what have I been listening to recently? The short answer is not a lot. I have been really focussed on writing and recording some new songs for the Clan so those are the songs buzzing around my brain currently. Can’t wait to be able to share them with you.</p>
<p>Therefore there is no recommendation or current listening this time around. Feel free to email me with your suggestions on <a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a></p>
<p>In fact we are always keen to receive feedback from you or comments on the website.</p>
<p>Anyway,</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/763/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/763/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=763&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/34491762015-01-02T09:43:31+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:002015 – Clan gigs<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>A quick update</p>
<p>First of all I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let’s all look forward to 2015 with optimism and hope.</p>
<p>As far as the Clan – we kick off our rock year this Saturday</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Saturday 3rd January</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>The Musketeer</strong></p>
<p>Leigh</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p>Approx 9:30</p>
<p>We have played there once before on a Sunday and it was good so hopefully a Saturday will be even better.</p>
<p>Apart from that I will keep all other news until next week.As always all our gigs are shown on our web site <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/761/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/761/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=761&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/34083692014-12-17T07:14:07+00:002022-05-31T18:35:37+01:00Beeston, Mick Ralphs and the end of 2014<p>Well here we are again; this will be the final update for 2014 and notification of our last gig of the year.</p>
<p>Keeping the best until last we are pleased to say it is at our favourite venue and takes place this Saturday</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 20<sup>th</sup> December</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Greyhound</strong></p>
<p>High Street</p>
<p>Beeston</p>
<p>Notts</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We love playing this place as it has great people on both sides of the bar and good sound engineers on the PA. I can also fit my full guitar rig in! Not something I can say very often. It’s also the venue where our live album was recorded back in 2012. So roll on Saturday and then we have a break for Christmas and New Year (no gig this New Year’s eve by choice). Be nice to have a proper break but we return to rock in January 2015,</p>
<p>Last week we were at another of our favourite venues – the Hogs ‘n’ Heifers in Bentham. It’s a great place and like Beeston has great people there. The one negative is the fact that you have to cart the gear up the stairs but as the gig it is actually worth it we can live with that.</p>
<p>To be fair it was not as busy as it has been previously but having spoken to the owner we don’t believe it was our fault just a timing issue. Could have been because it clashed with the X factor final of course but somehow I doubt it. We will be back there in 2015.</p>
<p>Speaking of 2015 we are going to spend some time changing the set around a bit with some new songs amongst the old favourites. We will take some time over Christmas to work this out. I don’t really want to just add another collection of covers but I suspect there will be a couple. I have some new Clan songs to record but it is controlled by finances and availability and at the moment both are in short supply. It won’t stop us playing them live though.</p>
<p>If there is one thing that I am determined is going to happen in 2015 it is going to be Clan T –shirts. I have been waiting four years for someone to design one and nothing has materialised so it looks like it is down to me. I want to keep it simple, desirable and ideally easily identifiable. Even for someone like me with absolutely no talent in the art and design department surely it can’t be that difficult? Haha Well it has defeated me for four years but it won’t be five.</p>
<p>So how has 2014 been? Up and down really. At one point earlier in the year I really wasn’t sure if the band would last until now let alone be talking about gigs and making plans for 2015. I think the decision to reduce the number of gigs and concentrate on the better quality ones has paid off. A bit of time in-between gigs is also nice to have and allows us to enjoy each gig rather than feel like we are on a treadmill. We were back at Cambridge Rock Festival of course which was a highlight although we did notice an increasing trend for Blues bands and bands playing multiple cover versions which kind of went against the principles of a rock festival to us; having said that the organisers are free to book who they want of course and I have to say it is brilliantly organised.</p>
<p>It would be nice to return in2015 although I know the date is unlikely to be in August as it usually is.</p>
<p>It was good to see Saxon again this year after so long and together with Irish support band Stormzone they delivered a very enjoyable night out despite the best efforts of the Tivoli to ruin it with their excessive beer charges.</p>
<p>We released our Rock for You EP earlier this year although critical acclaim is still pending. Actually between now and Christmas you can download it free from our website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>It was good to be included on the TBFM magazine cover CD recently and we got some good feedback from that.</p>
<p>So all things considered I would say it hasn’t been a bad year albeit a very quick one.</p>
<p>Pleased to see that the spoof TV show “Brian Pern: A life in rock” is back on BBC. There are only three episodes, as there was in the first series, about the prog rock singer and his band Thotch. With lots of cameo and guest appearances I think it is brilliant if you know enough about the subject to appreciate the references. On a similar note I believe there is a new series of the excellent W1A in the pipeline as well.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>It’s Christmas so nothing too extreme.</p>
<p>I really have had enough of Motorway maintenance at the moment. Every time we are heading home from a gig the motorway or the required exit seem to be closed. I appreciate that this is the best time for them to work on the roads but do they really need to shut all three carriageways at once? The diversions are usually not very well signposted either. I am sure the haulage companies are thrilled.</p>
<p>I wonder how many of you are going to Christmas parties. If TV advertising is anything to go by then everyone is going to massive parties full of fine food and wine. I suspect the reality is somewhat different. Not sure I know anyone who is going to one. In fact most people are really quite glad they are not. Are we all just Humbugs and grumpy old men/women?</p>
<p>Speaking of fine food there are no end of people on TV telling us how to make the best this and that are there? I am sick to death of the Celebrity chef phenomenon. There are far too many of them, it is unnecessary.</p>
<p>A whole load of Christmas specials on TV of course, some of them really are flogging a dead horse; “Birds of a feather” being one that springs to mind but there are others.</p>
<p>I have come to the conclusion that using a mobile phone makes you blind. It is the only explanation I can think of for people wandering all over the pavement, stopping dead in front of others, the inability to steer a car in a straight line (even though they should not be using it whilst driving) and general unawareness of anything around them. How more of them don’t get run over I really don’t know.</p>
<p>Did anyone see the program about the British Army leaving Camp Bastion? It was a good show but I have to say the Afghan Army officer who was inspecting the camp prior to taking it over didn’t come off too well. Was he really stupid enough not to realise that whilst he was telling his interpreter not to translate the derogatory comments he was making that the documentary makers would not translate them and subtitle them for us all to read on screen.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music 1 </span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Mick Ralphs Blues Band/Warner Hodges Band/Western Sizzlers gig review – you may wish to skip to Music 2..</strong></p>
<p>Last week I went to see a four-band line up in a local venue. The first band, I won’t name them for the sake of their reputation, delivered the most plodding, stilted wooden performance that I have seen from an “experienced” band for a long time. Apparently they have just recently increased from a trio to a four piece so if that is supposed to be the improved version then they must have been absolutely dire before.</p>
<p>Next up were the Western Sizzlers – a band who “featured” Rick Richards ex Georgia Satellites on guitar. They had a singer who reminded me of Johnny Rotten who was wearing a silly hat and drinking beer from a can. For a pro band I found them to be annoyingly unprofessional. Now I am all for bands having a good time on stage however whether Rick and the singer were under the influence I don’t know but they just messed about throughout the whole set laughing between themselves at in jokes. On more than one occasion they bizarrely dropped in some amended lines from Amy Winehouse’s Rehab which was just irritating and not as funny as they obviously thought it was. Overall their music was a cross between Dr Feelgood and Status Quo, including a Quo cover version. I probably would have enjoyed it if they had delivered it properly, instead I was just pleased when they finished and would be most unlikely to go and see them again.</p>
<p>So was it to be third time lucky? Band three the Warner Hodges band. Great set, great band and good songs. Just a shame that (as I found out afterwards) their set was cut short due to the unprofessional shenanigans and over running of the Western sizzlers. I spoke to Warner and I don’t think he was overly impressed either.</p>
<p>Final band of the evening were headliners the Mick Ralphs (Bad Co and Mott the Hoople guitarist) Blues band. A side project for the legendary Mick Ralphs and presumably an excuse for him to play some of the blues which inspired him to play and he enjoys. Therefore what you got was a well delivered collection of blues standards and a couple of Bad Company’s greatest hits thrown in for good measure. A well-rehearsed band as you would expect who appeared to be enjoying what they were doing although being honest for me there was nothing to make it stand out from what happens in a hundred pubs every Saturday night.</p>
<p>It might be me being too critical (not that I am in any position to judge) but there seemed to be something lacking all night although Warner Hodges and Mick Ralphs delivered the goods. I suspect it probably is me but I do think that something is not quite right when you can hear someone’s mobile phone ring above the sound of a rock band.</p>
<p>Possibly four bands in one night was one band over ambitious but everyone seemed happy enough.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music 2</span></strong></p>
<p>Last week I mentioned I was going to try and obtain a Widowmaker Album; well I managed to locate both of them thanks to good old Ebay. So far only the second one has arrived and unfortunately it is quite disappointing. There are no real catchy hooks or sing-along choruses which is what I have come to expect from Dee Snider and the majority of it sounds like it is played with the guitars tuned down as so beloved by the heavy metal bands. Was he trying to fit in with the Metallica crowd? It doesn’t work for me. The best track is one which he wrote with Bernie (presumably a Desperado cast off) called the Iron Road which sounds like the only one in normal tuning and has a recognisable chorus.</p>
<p>Be interesting to see if the first album is better when it turns up.</p>
<p>Other music this week? The Warner Hodges Band – Gunslinger. This is not bad at all. Some of it reminds me of Rory Gallagher which I didn’t expect but I am not complaining about that of course. I’ve only heard it twice so I suspect it will grow on me.</p>
<p>So if you like some good solid rock with a blues /country edge check out</p>
<p><strong>Warner Hodges – Gunslinger, </strong>you might just like it.</p>
<p>Anyway</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/759/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/759/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=759&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/33869192014-12-11T13:09:23+00:002017-01-14T00:19:04+00:00Clan in Bentham this week – plus thanks TBFM<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">Official website</a></p>
<p>Yes it’s me again. I won’t take up too much of your time this week.</p>
<p>I simply want to let you know that we are returning to Yorkshire this Saturday for what is normally a crackin’ gig.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 13<sup>th</sup> December</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Hoggs ‘n’ Heifers</strong></p>
<p>Main Street</p>
<p>Bentham</p>
<p>N.Yorks</p>
<p>Normally onstage around 9:30</p>
<p>We have played there quite a few times now and there has always been a good appreciative crowd.</p>
<p>As it is not long until Christmas hopefully everyone will be in a festive mood and we can have a party.</p>
<p>I also just wanted to thank TBFM online (internet radio) as they played through all the tracks on their free magazine cover CD last week including ours. I was in their online chatroom at the time and it was nice to receive so many good comments about the track both there and on the” air” as well. It certainly bumped up the hits on our website and generated some more CD sales.</p>
<p>Anyway</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/757/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/757/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=757&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/33702912014-12-07T09:08:23+00:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Clan- Bolton Review & Video, December, Vinyl, Black Friday and more Dee.<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">Clan web site</a></p>
<p>Well I just thought I would drop you a quick update to let you know how last Saturday’s (Nov 29) Clan gig went. I suspect I will waffle on a bit more though.</p>
<p>If you remember we were in a new venue called “The Venue Bar” in Bolton. We haven’t played Bolton for a while for some reason and the venue is next door to the Old Man & Scythe where we have squeezed ourselves in previously.</p>
<p>Anyway , ”The Venue Bar”.</p>
<p>Only opened a few weeks ago it is a large one room establishment with a separate VIP area. The decent sized stage is visible from pretty much everywhere. A perfectly adequate in house PA and some in house lighting which is always good for us , reducing the wear and tear on our backs. Friendly owners and management, easy access for the gear including a ramp and it advertises itself as on over 25s bar which means better for our type of music I guess.</p>
<p>The location is in Churchgate which has numerous bars so a lot of transitional drinking goes on as people move from one to another. Anyway we kicked off at around 10:15 and apart from a short 20 minute break we finally left the stage to rapturous and tumultuous applause at 12:35. It was an absolute stormer of a gig as far as we were concerned and the audience seemed to agree. I knew Bolton rocked and we weren’t disappointed.</p>
<p>Ok so we couldn’t use the haze machine which effectively makes our lasers pointless and despite the stage being a reasonable size the in house gear on it restricted the space a bit so we didn’t use the back drop (which makes the visuals a bit “cabaret”) but we were probably the only ones who cared. We have been sent links to a couple of videos a friend ouf ours filmed on his phone, I don’t think they quite capture the full atmosphere however if you want to see them, here are the links:</p>
<p><a href="http://youtu.be/Y3kOz8OyDAs?list=UUceq5mMzYCsJ2z_qrpJKu7g">Don’t fear the reaper</a> <a href="http://youtu.be/YveC9-EKK7w">Whole Lotta Rosie/Rock for you</a></p>
<p>It is actually nice to see some of the videos and pictures people take at gigs, we normally never see them.</p>
<p>But yes a great gig. Only strange thing was having tuned my spare guitar prior to playing I put it down ready for action should it be needed? When I picked it up again after the gig to put it away a string had broken. Not sure when it broke but just as well I didn’t need it for real. Do I need to start carrying two spare guitars?</p>
<p>Ok what else. Well the gig served as an unpleasant reminder to me how out of shape and unfit I seem to have become. Probably caused by my current lifestyle which has recently involved a fair bit of hotel living plus a reduction in the number of gigs effectively reducing my regular physical exercise, I think it has all caught up with me. So despite it being Christmas season it’s time to take the bull by the horns and sort it out.</p>
<p>Yes it is indeed December and the TBFM magazine has been published and distributed. As I have mentioned previously we have a track from our 2012 100% Live album included on the giveaway Cover CD. They have called the CD “Breaking Bands” which I find slightly amusing but hey who knows? – It may carry some weight or kudos somewhere? Listening to it (we are track 15) I am surprised we were included really as the majority of the other tracks show a considerable heavy metal bias and we are more straightforward rock. Still, there you go.</p>
<p>So keeping with the December theme, this month means I will be getting another year older, nothing special happening though as far as I know. Then after that it is Christmas of course, only three weeks away really. Hopefully this year I will actually manage to send Christmas cards in good time.</p>
<p>Like most of you I can’t believe it has come around again so quickly. Well in reality it hasn’t of course it just feels like it has.</p>
<p>So am I looking forward to it or not? Well in one way yes as it does kind of mark the year and it is a chance to get together with family and friends I haven’t seen fora while. In another no, as I could do without some of the forced festivity and things that are expected. If I was given the choice though I wouldn’t be without it.</p>
<p>In the States of course I don’t think it is as big as Thanksgiving which may be down to the diversity of people there and the religious make-up? I don’t know really but I do know that if the current trend for copying them continues we will probably end up making a big thing out of thanksgiving as well.</p>
<p>It’s interesting how an old celebration such as Halloween which I am sure has been around in Europe for centuries has been taken by the Americans, rebranded as their own and sold back to us? Of course their post-thanksgiving “Black Friday” sale has now been exported to us as well – that worked well last week didn’t it? So mark my words, thanksgiving will be on the up. Our traditional Guy Fawkes Night seems to be on its way out.</p>
<p>Hmm, am I straying into <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">RANTS </span></strong> territory here? Yes probably however I’ve started so I’ll finish.</p>
<p>Yep that is indeed a line from Mastermind, which reminds me, I couldn’t believe the guy on there the other week who was answering questions on Pink Floyd as his specialist subject. They were really not that difficult in my opinion and that was without me having done any revision or preparation. He scored five – Pretty Pathetic really. I got the impression he still wasn’t familiar with some of the answers when he was told them. Had he done any research?</p>
<p>Something else that I find pointless and admittedly only seems to happen in TV programs like Morse or other detective series are people who spout forth Latin quotes which because no-one understands they always have to follow immediately with the translation. I am sure there probably are people who do actually do this. Is it so they think they look superior because it really doesn’t. They may as well use a Fictional language like Klingon and then translate that, What would we think about people who did that I wonder, I am pretty sure it wouldn’t be how smart they are. Why bother saying something knowing you will need to translate it, utterly pointless.</p>
<p>Speaking of pointless I saw Russell Brand on the Alan Carr show last week. Now I have no real opinion of the man yet I do keep hearing how actually he is quite intelligent and clever. Well on last Saturday’s showing he certainly didn’t do anything to back up that opinion. He just waffled on very loudly about nothing in particular in what I suspect is his professional Essex geezer accent similar to the one Nigel Kennedy uses. I knew no more about him when he finished than I did when he started not that I really care anyway but it wasn’t very entertaining.</p>
<p>In complete contrast I did enjoy the series with Sue Perkins travelling up the Mekong River which I admit is not part of the world I know a lot about. I feel like I have now learnt a fair bit about it over the four programs. Sue presented them very well not only providing information in an entertaining way but also posing some interesting and though provoking questions about how the region may change in the future.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>I noticed this week that sales of vinyl have topped the one million mark in sales for the first time in a zillion years or something. It kind of makes me wonder what this is all about.</p>
<p>Personally I am more concerned about the music itself i.e. the content rather than the format in which it is delivered. Yes I bought vinyl for years and yes I agree that the covers were far better and more interesting when you could actually hold them and read them. What I am quite happy to live without though is tracks, jumping, sticking and clicking due to scratches plus having to get up and turn the thing over every 20-25 minutes. When I borrowed other people’s records I originally recorded them (illegally I guess) onto reel to reel tape until I finally obtained a cassette recorder which was far more mobile.</p>
<p>As soon as I could drive then nearly every record I had was put on to cassette for use in the car, yes you lost quality recording them but they were still listenable. Next of course we were fed CDs and minidiscs and now of course we have MP3s and digital downloads. Do I really care that the alleged quality is better on vinyl, no of course I don’t. I simply want to hear the music in the most convenient form it is available for my circumstances. For me given that most of my listening is when I am in a car or travelling my IPod does the job for me. Yes they are MP3s, can I really tell the difference? Not really. I can still tell what is happening musically.</p>
<p>So I believe this resurgence in vinyl sales has actually far more to do with two other things than audio quality; Nostalgia and the Marketing. As far as I can see the majority of the vinyl being produced now is being marketed as limited editions. This effectively means it is being aimed at collectors and completists (is this a word?). I strongly suspect that most new vinyl records will never be taken out of their sleeves and the owners will still be listening to the content via a CD or a download.</p>
<p>Anyway – I have completed my reading of Dee Snider’s Biography and a very good read it was too. Certainly for the casual reader it will probably open their eyes as to how the music industry works, or used to, although to be fair I had a good understanding of this. It clearly demonstrates how the general perception is that if a band is on TV, radio and seem to be playing large gigs and tours then they have a lot of money. This is far beyond the truth in most cases, it is longevity that brings the financial rewards and the music business is a very fickle business based on trends and fashions. It’s a shame that the Desperado project never took off as the album it produced is one of my all-time favourites. I have had it for a long time as some kind of unofficial release but it was officially released a few years ago and is entitled “Ace”. It has also whetted my appetite for the two Widowmaker albums as well (not to be confused with the 70’s UK band Widowmaker which included legendary bassist Bob Daisley).</p>
<p>So this time the recommended listening is <strong>Ace by Desperado</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Anyway</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/754/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/754/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=754&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/33281132014-11-25T17:41:53+00:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Back to Bolton, Dee Snider and Judas Priest 2008<p>So soon?</p>
<p>Well it’s over a week since the last time but that is pretty good really given the recent frequency of these.</p>
<p>Main reason for this update is to give advance notice of a gig that has been slotted in this week.</p>
<p><strong>The Venue Bar</strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 29<sup>th</sup> November</span></strong></p>
<p>14 Churchgate</p>
<p>Bolton</p>
<p>BL1</p>
<p>This is a new venue to us, in fact I think it is quite a new venue anyway, however we’ve always had a good time in Bolton so we are looking forward to this one. It is quite some time since we last played there.</p>
<p>I was also called by the Nags Head in Ripley, Derbyshire who seemed quite keen for us to return. It’s a Sunday afternoon gig but we’ve taken the booking as again, a good crowd of people who like their Rock, no TVs left on in there. Such bookings do restore your confidence that you are doing something people actually enjoy and that we do it quite well. Speaking of which I know have mentioned this several times and I intend to shut up about it after this time but it is a shame that we don’t get the chance to play locally. We are always being asked when we will be doing , however to be fair venues and promoters will only put on entertainment they know will sell tickets or beer and they therefore stick to what they know. You can’t blame them really. Is there some unknown reason they don’t book us? I honestly don’t know. We are inoffensive to the best of my knowledge, reliable and people have always enjoyed us when we have played; to be honest I really have just become so tired of trying. I have better things to do than spend my time flogging a dead horse.</p>
<p>Ok what else has happened this week? Had a trip to Chester as not been for a while. Apart from some major changes being made around the shopping precinct it is pretty much as it was. Plenty of people about but not sure they were buying.</p>
<p>The weather last week was quite good, well dry at least, really can’t complain for November. It might even be ok for a day out again this weekend if it stays the same.</p>
<p>As reported last week I received Dee Snider’s Biography last weekend so I have been reading it this week. A good read although I haven’t got too far yet. Reminds me a bit of the Paul Stanley book I read recently. Both guys were determined to be Rock stars no matter what and their focus was totally on it. Neither of them got waylaid by drink, drugs etc. which proves you don’t have to be an alcoholic junkie to be a successful rock star contrary to what many people think.</p>
<p>These days of course the whole industry has changed and the days of rich rock stars that paid their dues and learnt their craft through gaining experience are pretty much gone. Everything is too niche now which limits the exposure apart from the instant fame with no longevity puppets created by the TV talent shows.</p>
<p>I am not a huge football fan as you know however I watched the Scotland v England game last Tuesday and quite enjoyed it. The only thing I didn’t enjoy was the extremely annoying drum being banged throughout almost the whole match. It was irritating enough on the TV so I can imagine what it must have been like if you were actually there. If the drummer gout out without his head being pushed through the drum skin I would be surprised.</p>
<p>Last Friday I watched a Judas Priest gig on Youtube. I hadn’t seen it before; from 2008 I think it was. Not one of their best, they were plugging the not very good Nostradamus album so played a few tracks from that. They rest of the set was a bit strange as well, good to hear the Sinner get an airing which was good and Dissident Aggressor but some of the other choices were a bit odd. I suppose with a back catalogue the size of theirs it is difficult choosing a set list. Rob Halford is not the man he was either, obviously as he ages he will have trouble hitting those high notes but he certainly seemed to be having trouble moving. I did read recently he has had an operation on his back so maybe that was because he was having trouble moving? Having said all that I still enjoyed it and the Priest always give 100%.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>Do I have any – Well people not looking where they are walking because they are messing with mobile phones. I am fed up of having to avoid them because they are not looking where they are going. Who are they texting and talking to at 7:30a.m. ?</p>
<p>I use Facebook mainly for band related postings, which is pretty much compulsory, or the odd music thing. Generally I am not a big fan of the whole thing. I have noticed recently though there seem to be more and more postings which are basically adverts in disguise. This I do find irritating.</p>
<p>You really would have thought that removing prices from the bottom of high heels would be something that every woman was aware of by now but no you still see them on a regular basis.</p>
<p>I am still often amazed by how many musicians think that because they have been around a long time or because they can play brilliantly believe this entitles them to top gigs and high billings. Sorry guys you are in the entertainment business, people like it or they don’t that is the criteria, get over it. You are not performing lifesaving surgery or protecting people so much as I love music it really is not that important. I recently saw a quote from one of these guys saying “The calibre of the guys I play with we would not play for less than whatever”. The arrogance, basically implying that anyone who is prepared to play for less is somehow inferior. Well I had never heard of this guy and if that is his attitude probably never will again. Some people need to chill out.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>Well the Rated-X album I downloaded last week, I still haven’t really had much chance to listen to in depth yet. Hopefully address that next week.</p>
<p>The main music I have been listening to is good old UFO. I love that band in all its line-ups from the early Guitarist Mick Bolton to the current guitarist Vinnie Moore. The one constant being vocalist Phil Mogg of course. To me he is the sound of UFO.</p>
<p>Anyway, until next time</p>
<p>As always – Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/752/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/752/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="https://pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=752&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/32820932014-11-14T06:44:46+00:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Clan news, TBFM and Joe Lynn Turner<p>Well here we are again. I’m on a bit of a roll at the moment</p>
<p>As you know there are no gigs this week but as you also know this is part of a deliberate policy to ensure that when we do play it is enjoyable for us and we are playing to people who actually want to see a live band. Since we adopted this approach it’s all been good.</p>
<p>I mentioned recently that I was hopeful of us having a track on the Cover CD for Total Biker FM (TBFM) magazine.</p>
<p>Well it has been confirmed we are to have a track on it and it is to be given away with the December issue, out Dec 2<sup>nd</sup>. The magazine is distributed free at Venues and various music outlets around the country or alternatively can be ordered for postal delivery. Further details – at <a href="http://tbfmonline.co.uk/magazine/product/issue-21-winter-2014-with-double-cd/">TBFM</a></p>
<p>We are quite pleased about that, who knows where it may lead.</p>
<p>I am still enjoying the weather as well; it has not really been bad for quite some time, having said that I am sure we will now have nothing but torrential rain for the rest of the week.</p>
<p>I was watching the Apprentice on TV the other day, yes I know, but the interesting part was that they had to set up a YouTube Channel. Made me think that maybe I should start one of my own, my videos have done ok for viewings so maybe a monthly video would be a good idea. Do I have the time I wonder? Hmm, worth thinking about. Down side is I don’t have a video camera of course.</p>
<p>It was Remembrance Day of course over the weekend, Good to see so many people still honour the day and the fact that so many people lost their lives in doing what they were asked. I like most people live in the hope that one day there will be no wars and everyone can live in harmony but sadly there always seem to be people who are determined to inflict their views and opinions on others and if these people are put into positions of power conflict is usually the result.</p>
<p>This reminds me that on Sunday I watched the original version of “The Day the Earth stood still “. Was it shown by coincidence or was to tie in with Remembrance Day, I am not sure but it carries a powerful message and despite being from 1951 (I think) for me it is much better than the more recent remake which seemed to lose the point somewhere along the way.</p>
<p><strong>Gripes </strong></p>
<p>Fireworks – yes I like fireworks a lot but the window of use does seem to go on for far too long these days. They seem to begin before Halloween and they were still going off this week. I’m not a killjoy but cats, dogs and probably most animals really don’t like them so restricting their use would be a good idea in my book.</p>
<p>Many years ago I used to cycle to school. It was three miles or so and involved a long steep hill. By the time you got there on a hot day you were somewhat sweaty and tired, wet on a rainy day. However, you simply went to lessons in what you were wearing (your school uniform) without any fuss. No Showers, no hi-viz vests, no helmets and certainly no special cycling shoes, or lycra outfits etc. How did we survive? Did we all survive?</p>
<p>I am so fed up of receiveing notifications from Twitter and Linkedin in My email. Generally telling me that I may be interested in this or that or invitations from People I don’t know. These programs don’t make it easy to turn these features off but I think having changed about 30 settings I may have managed it.</p>
<p><strong>Music</strong></p>
<p>This week I ordered Dee Snider’s biography “shut up and give me the mic” which I expect to arrive by Friday. I have always liked Dee’s voice especially on the Desperado album he did with Bernie Tormé. I figured I had better listen to some Twisted Sister as no doubt it will be referenced in his book. They are ok but the best thing about them was definitely Dee. Some of the tracks are very reminiscent of my writing actually, not sure if that is good or bad J. Still I am looking forward to the book as despite his over the top stage persona Dee is actually no fool. I will let you know.</p>
<p>A lot of noise about the “new” Pink Floyd album this week as it was released on Monday. Seem to be quite mixed reviews actually with the people who like it saying it took about four listens and others hating it. Not heard it myself as whilst I like the Floyd I am also cautious and don’t believe everything they have done is pure gold. Actually one of my favourite albums of theirs is “Obscured by Clouds” but you rarely hear it mentioned. In fact I suspect that probably quite a few people who claim to love Floyd aren’t even aware of it. No matter, I presume I will hear some of this “new” album at some point.</p>
<p>New music well- Joe Lynn Turner’s new band and eponymous album Rated -X.</p>
<p>I have literally just downloaded this so I can’t really pass judgement yet. It’s described as being like early Whitesnake and Rainbow hence me acquiring it. I have always like Joe’s voice so that is a good start. The song previews sounded pretty good before I click “buy”.</p>
<p>Uuntil Next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/750/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/750/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=750&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/32674822014-11-05T13:18:42+00:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00SouthPort Fox & Goose, Christmas Single, Still no local gigs and TBFM.<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">WWW.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well I thought I would update you about last week’s gig at the Fox and Goose – in Southport.</p>
<p>As we had been told it was a great venue. Good crowd of people, all there to see a live band and appreciative of our Good time Feel good rock.</p>
<p>The owner Ian provided excellent hospitality and we were rewarded for our efforts by being rebooked for next year. Check web site for dates. A late start 11:00pm and we finished at 1:30 but when the crowd is having fun and we are having fun it’s not an issue. A good night had by all.</p>
<p>Ok no gigs this week. Next one is Dec 13<sup>th</sup> in Bentham.</p>
<p>Anyway now that Halloween and Bonfire night are out of the way I guess we can mention Christmas. Only because we need to remind you that our evergreen sing-along Christmas single “it’s Christmas – Let’s have a good time “ can be obtained from all the usual download sites and from our own website of course.</p>
<p>Click here to find it on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858">ITunes.</a> Actually has a nice review by Fret Buzz.</p>
<p>As usual we are being ignored by our local venues. That in itself I don’t mind but when you are told the reason is they are booked up for the year yet bands who have formed since being told that seem to be playing there regularly you know you basically someone is not telling the truth. It is just a shame as numerous people keep asking when we are playing locally and we never are.</p>
<p>I haven’t heard anything about whether our “Night Ride” track from 100% Live will be included on the free cover CD that is being issued with the December issue of Total Biker FM (TBFM) Magazine yet. They say no news is good news?</p>
<p>To be quite honest not much else has happened.</p>
<p>Nothing to rant about and musically apart from acquiring classical music’s greatest hits as a bit of a change there isn’t anything to report there either.</p>
<p>Looking into sound bars for the TV? Are they worthwhile?</p>
<p>So I will leave it there it there for now</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/748/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/748/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=748&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/32470622014-10-23T18:56:12+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Anything New? Maybe.<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Another so soon?</p>
<p>Will wonders never cease?</p>
<p>As you know the next gig is still a couple of weeks away – how will you be able to contain yourselves? Actually we are in the same boat. It seems quite a while since my Cat, Strat and Marshall cranked out some sounds.</p>
<p>In the meantime I had to satisfy my cravings with a dose of Bernie Tormé live. It was Bernie doing what he does throughout a rather good set list mixing old and new. It was the first night of the tour so a few minor mistakes but nothing serious. The only oddity being a couple of intrusions to the show caused by the fact that Jasper Carrot was performing next door/upstairs? I won’t go into here but to be honest I can’t believe that this is the first time a band playing in this rock club has not had to comply with the venue next door’s requirements.</p>
<p>I went to the dentist as mentioned, all clear. Only downside was the driver window in my car decided to drop into the door on the way there requiring the car to go in for the day and an unexpected bill to pay at the end of it. Cars eh? I couldn’t be without one though.</p>
<p>Apart from have a few meals out not a lot happened over the weekend. Did a few jobs around the house – oh yes – for those who have been on tenterhooks, replacing the thermostats did fix the tumble dryer.</p>
<p>Managed to catch “Back to the Future II” on TV – probably the weakest of the Back to the future trilogy but I still enjoyed it as I don’t think it gets shown as much as the others. Time travel is very complex.</p>
<p>Speaking of time travel I have tried to provide a picture of the Daleks I mentioned last week. Hopefully it is accessible; I don’t think Mike will mind, after all he did post it on Facebook.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/daleks.jpg"><img src="https://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/daleks.jpg?w=300&h=199" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Daleks" height="199" width="300" /></a></p>
<p>The nights are drawing in so of course it’s time for the clocks to go back this coming weekend. I am not too worried about the dark, just glad to have an extra hour in bed. Technically it is the longest day of the year (25 hours) of course.</p>
<p>I suppose the fireworks will be starting this weekend even though it is not Nov 5<sup>th</sup> for a couple of weeks. Mind you as someone pointed out the other day, Halloween seems to have overtaken November 5th in terms of popularity. Certainly the shops see it as an extra cash injection judging by the overpriced tatty rubbish most of them seem to be selling. I often wonder what happens to all this stuff when it is unsold.</p>
<p><strong>Rants</strong></p>
<p>Well nothing has really wound me up per se other than the usual TV stuff which is designed to invoke a reaction of course. Just have to keep reminding yourself it is deliberately edited in such a way to do this – the TV companies call it entertainment. Unfortunately anyone that appears on such programmes is either too stupid to realise this or really doesn’t care how they are portrayed as long as they are on Tele.</p>
<p>Well I am going to sound old here and I am sure many of you will disagree, which you are perfectly entitled to do, but I can’t help it. I really do not like seeing women drinking from pint glasses, yes I know they are entitled to but it doesn’t work for me.</p>
<p>Cycle lanes – A lot of cities and councils have invested heavily in these and I can see that perhaps encouraging cycling rather than driving may be a good idea. However from my own observations it appears that the majority of cyclists don’t actually use them. Instead they prefer to ride on the road, the pavement, anywhere but the cycle lane? Is this because essentially a cyclist likes the freedom to be able to go wherever they want at will rather than being channelled along specific routes? I don’t know but not convinced the investments are providing the expected benefits.</p>
<p><strong>Music</strong></p>
<p>Nothing really changed since last week, obviously a lot of Bernie Tormé has been revisited and I am still familiarising myself with the “Into the storm” album from Axel Rudi Pell</p>
<p>Rather strangely I did find myself listening to Abba’s greatest hits during a long car journey, mainly because it is the first thing alphabetically on my IPod. I think I have said it before, the production and harmonies on their songs do elevate them considerably above run of the mill pop songs.</p>
<p>Some Classic Rainbow also got played this week, the early Dio incarnation. Still can’t fault it really but I am biased.</p>
<p>So I can’t really report or recommend anything specific. I have virtually stopped listening to Planet rock radio and radio in general at the moment so I am not sure which bands they have chosen to push (presumably with financial incentives) currently.</p>
<p>Not sure why I never received the new U2 album as a free download to my ITunes but glad I didn’t. Bit of a cheek I though forcing their album on people. They might think they are the best band in the world and I know there are many that might agree with them but there are also many more that don’t.</p>
<p>So all I will recommend is to go out and catch a live band, preferably one playing some original music.</p>
<p>Keep Music live</p>
<p>Until next time, keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/745/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/745/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=745&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/32357452014-10-16T13:42:25+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Clan news, Daleks and Bernie Tormé<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well here we are again.</p>
<p>Not too much to tell you but I am sure I will think of a few things.</p>
<p>For those looking for gigs we are not playing again until Sat Nov 1st when we make our debut at the Fox & Goose in Southport. This is a long established venue although it has changed hands quite a few times recently. Remarkably we have never played there as the various owners/managers have always proved to be very elusive. The one time we were booked there, as Iron Horse Pre Clan, we were cancelled at short notice due to a comedy festival. So although we have been in contact with the new owners I will be satisfied once we actually get onto the stage.</p>
<p>Until then? Well I am waiting to hear if we are going to be included in the Cover CD for the Dec TBFM magazine. I had to send some artwork which is not really my strong point so it might be a<br>
deciding factor. Ah well, we either will be included or we won’t. Not exactly a world changing event.</p>
<p>This was odd – Our 2010 promo video for the Few was apparently spotted on screen in Turkey last week?<br>
This was actually a video made to accompany the version of the song from my solo album Pies, Pasties and Rock ‘n’ Roll so both the recording and the video feature Clive on drums, pre Jim. If anyone wants to see it again <a href="http://youtu.be/bpCtBHJBBt8">click here</a>. I’m sure a few more viewings won’t do us any harm.</p>
<p>Last Sunday I was out in West Kirby and I bumped into a friend of mine who has made a couple of Daleks. I had seen them on Facebook but anyway I got to see them in the “Flesh” he has two and also his son had made two so basically I walked into a room to be confronted by four full size Daleks. Even at my age and knowing they weren’t real this was still a weird feeling and slightly intimidating. Brilliantly made I have to say. How some people have the patience to make such detailed things I don’t know?</p>
<p>I also spent some time working on my guitars, rebuilding a couple and swapping some bits around. I was surprised to find out how many I have, all different of course and let’s face it you can never have too many guitars can you?</p>
<p>This week I am off to see good old Bernie Tormé at the start of his UK tour. It’s the first gig of the tour in Leamington Spa. I have seen Bernie many times since 1982 and The Clan supported him (GMT) at Yardbirds in Grimsby not too long ago. As I have mentioned previously he has a new solo album out so I assume we will get some tracks from that plus a selection of his considerable back catalogue. Looking forward to it, Bernie just cranks up his guitar and delivers long guitar solos, exactly what the Doctor ordered. Couple of support acts on so may catch them as well. We have to support live original music.</p>
<p>Later this week I have a dental appointment, only a check-up, not anticipating any problems but you can never tell. No doubt the day will be filled with other such necessary jobs/chores.</p>
<p>I noticed in a few cities the Christmas lights are being put up in the high streets this week. No doubt they will be having switch on ceremonies shortly. I suppose it is only 10 weeks away.</p>
<p>No rants this week – chilled out</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Music</strong></span></p>
<p>I can’t remember if I did or not but possibly in my last update I indicated that I had received the new Axel Rudi Pell album. Whatever I called it then it is actually called “Into the storm”. Very good it is too although it is obviously similar to all his others. If you like the genre, check it out.</p>
<p>I found myself unable to sleep the other night so figured maybe some Progressive (Prog) rock might assist. Bizarrely I stayed awake for the whole of the Snow Goose by Camel and then had the urge to listen to Brain Salad Surgery (ELP), Fragile (Yes) and Trespass (Genesis). Fortunately I don’t currently own any of those so I was saved from a death by keyboard.</p>
<p>Actually I am not knocking Camel at all, they were the performers at the first real gig I ever went to and it was the Snow Goose tour, I was impressed. It was always better live and Andy Latimer is a very tasteful guitarist.</p>
<p>Whilst on the subject of Prog Rock – I understand there is a “new” Pink Floyd album due out shortly. No doubt it will sell millions but having heard the single (only once so far to be fair) I doubt I will be a purchaser. Still, it will give the Floyd tribute bands something new to learn.</p>
<p>So on that note I am signing off.</p>
<p>Remember Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig.</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/740/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/740/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=740&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/32130452014-10-01T18:14:49+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Another update – Gig reviews, Rants return and Bernie Tormé<p>Yes it’s another update, not quite as soon as I had hoped but better late than never.<br>
Ok a couple of recent gig reviews </p>
<p>On the 19th Sept we were in Atherton at the Jolly Nailor, a great venue. Since we were last there they have built a nice stage area which was good. It wasn’t our finest gig though to be honest, we were missing a mic stand which was admittedly a rather basic and unprofessional thing to happen; unfortunately this meant that anytime there were two part vocals it required Steve and I to share a mic, beatles style. Not a good visual image, although it probably sounded ok and certainly no-one there seemed to complain. </p>
<p>The problem is of course is that just like driving , cooking, or anything else, you get used to things being in their place and being second nature so whenever they are different you have to concentrate far more. This in turn results in the core task becoming less slick than it should be.<br>
So – although a reasonable gig and an appreciative crowd I personally didn’t really enjoy it as much as I should have done.<br>
However these things happen. C’est la vie.</p>
<p>Last Friday 26th we were at the Clwyd in Shotton, again a good venue and it was a great gig. Everything back in its place and even three blown flood lamp bulbs didn’t darken the evening.<br>
Great gig and nice to see our friends Chris and Janette (apologies if incorrect spelling) again.</p>
<p>Nothing happening until November as of now but keep checking the web site/twitter as something may crop up during October. </p>
<p>Other things, well I had a very enjoyable day recently taking the Ferry ‘cross the Mersey to Liverpool, a mooch around and an enjoyable al fresco lunch. The weather was really rather pleasant. </p>
<p>I heard from a few friends last week, always good to catch up on what they are up to.</p>
<p>Saturday I spent a couple of hours trying to fix the tumble drier which decided it didn’t want to heat up. Thought I had succeeded but apparently not. I have a decision to make on that one. Repair or replace? I think I will try replacing the thermostats first as that is relatively cheap and simple if the internet videos are to be believed. I did manage to recover some plectrums from it.</p>
<p>Obviously since I last wrote there was the referendum in Scotland. I am glad it is all over to be honest. The news coverage was extremely tedious regardless of what your opinion was.<br>
As there was no athletics for them to cover the BBC decided to force golf down our throats last weekend, the people working on their outside broadcast Sports units must be coining it in this year.</p>
<p>I was recently offered the chance to have one of the band’s tracks included on a CD that is to be given away free with TBFM (Total Biker FM) magazine – December issue. Obviously no guarantees on this happening so I figured I would submit our Biker track – Night Ride from our 100% live album. If it does happen we also get a ¼ page advert in the magazine.<br>
Worth a try I suppose.<br>
Debatable how useful these are really, personally I rarely listen to free CDs on magazine covers but I know some people do like them as tasters or introductions to bands.</p>
<p>Rants</p>
<p>Ah the return of the rants.<br>
Well I am going to start with loyalty and discount cards again. I don’t know how much room coffee shops think we have in our wallets but every man and his dog seems to give a loyalty card these days. As if that is not enough there now seems to be an increase in Discount cards for a whole range of hotels, restaurants and other services. It is all getting way out of hand. You turn up at a restaurant and you have to juggle several cards they accept to determine which one gives the best deal. All this in conjunction with the ever increasing number of special offer and money off vouchers that arrive via email! </p>
<p>I don’t really want to mention X-factor and I actually haven’t watched it for a long time but I was unfortunate enough to see about 10 minutes of it recently. I had no idea what was going on, there seemed to be a game of musical chairs in progress, total confusion amongst the judges and a baying crowd. All extremely contrived and planned I am sure although whether the total inability of any of the contestants to actually sing in tune was deliberate I don’t know – probably. Absolute garbage the whole thing, I couldn’t turn off soon enough. I really could not see where the entertainment was meant to be.<br>
Speaking of which another program I have refused to watch on principle is the one about bad drivers. I had a moan about a similar program years ago when a program created “celebrities” out of people who seriously should not be driving cars. I presume this new program is more of the same I won’t be watching.</p>
<p>As for watching people on TV who are sitting watching people on TV? Seriously what is that all about? </p>
<p>Here’s another old chestnut of mine, people wandering along seemingly talking to themselves. They aren’t of course they are actually on mobile phones. I find it very annoying. Even worse many of them now seem to have adopted the current trend of holding the phone horizontally out in front of them? I must be missing something as I really don’t know why; all I can think of is that they presume the microphone will pick them up better. Well it would work a lot better if they put it near their mouth and the speaker by their ear. It might stop the whole street having to listen to their side of the conversation as well.</p>
<p>Unbelievably I spotted a dad out with his three young kids the other day eating a meal. He was eating normally yet he was allowing all three of the children to follow the stupid and totally impractical trend of having their cutlery in the wrong hands. No hope for them if he isn’t going to put them right. </p>
<p>Music</p>
<p>Well the New Bernie Tormé double CD Album Flowers & Dirt has arrived. Now as you probably know I am somewhat biased when it comes to Bernie as he is one of my favourite guitarists so I was looking forward to this.<br>
I’ve listened to it a few times now so I am becoming familiar with the individual songs. If you like Bernie you will probably like this album as it’s basically him doing what he does, long guitar solos with all his usual techniques incorporated. The singing is passable as usual but then Bernie is a guitarist who sings not a singer so we don’t worry too much about that. I have heard some people saying in reviews that there is too much self-indulgent guitar on the album but this is surely why we buy Bernie’s albums. I think I would be a bit disappointed if there wasn’t. My only criticism bizarrely is that it is a double CD with 20 tracks on it. It is just too long. That might sound a bit strange and it is not the songs themselves but it’s finding enough time to listen to them all in one chunk, which is the problem. Unless on a long car journey I find that I have to listen to it in broken up sections and that defeats the point of it being on one album.</p>
<p>I have found this quite a lot recently with other albums as well and personally I have to say that prefer albums to last around 45 minutes like albums used to when they were recorded on vinyl. For me anything longer than an hour is definitely too much. I think a lot of artists just think they need to fill the80 minutes available on a CD in the mistaken idea that they are providing good value.</p>
<p>Most classic albums were vinyl and therefore only last 40 minutes or so. It is quite long enough in one sitting. </p>
<p>Another album I have acquired recently is this year’s Axel Rudi Pell album “in from the Storm”. I have quite a few of his albums and as I mentioned previously with Bernie, yes they are all similar but isn’t that the point. I would be a bit upset if I bought it and it turned out to be jazz-rock or something. Not really had a the chance to familiarise myself with it yet but I will.</p>
<p>My last posting mentioned it was 37 years since Marc Bolan was killed. Well Sept 30th would have been his 67th Birthday as he was not even 30 when he died. It is difficult to imagine how he would have been now or what he might have been doing. Some things are best left as they are. </p>
<p>So on that note</p>
<p>Keep rockin’<br>
Speak to you again soon<br>
Craig<br>
<a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/737/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/737/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=737&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/31897072014-09-16T18:05:30+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Cambridge Rock, UFO, Paul Stanley & Clan News<p>Well having finally got Word Press to start working again its time for a new Blog.<br>
It’s taken along time to write this as I have started many times but never got the chance to finish</p>
<p>I wrote one last week all ready to post but then decided that it consisted of far too many of my opinions and quite honestly who am I to foist these on people?<br>
Seems to me that the Internet is already full of people quite happily doing this in the misguided belief anyone cares.</p>
<p>So I will try and stick to facts</p>
<p>Well the most significant thing to report is that The Clan returned to the Cambridge Rock festival in August and a good time was had by all. Our second time there, the first being in 2011 and we are proud to be associated with the event. It’s a well-organised, friendly event run by music lovers for music lovers. Saturday night headliners FM were excellent and other standouts, apart from us of course, were Chantel McGregor and a very young band called The Rooz (as in Kanga rooz). I did hear quite a few people saying there were too many blues bands on the bill and that may be true depending upon your musical tastes, from my point of view I must admit that I was quite surprised and perhaps slightly disappointed by how many bands played multiple cover versions in their sets, but overall 100 bands in 4 days is not bad for a festival.</p>
<p>Clan News – After a considered review of our objectives the band has decided to concentrate on playing gigs in “Music Venues” rather than everywhere and anywhere as we have been doing. The upshot is that we will probably play less but the gigs we do play will be better.</p>
<p>We will of course continue to write and record new material. In fact I have started recording some new demos already so watch this space.</p>
<p>Recent gigs which both re-affirmed our decision have been Hogs ‘n ’Heifers in Bentham and The Witton Chimes in Northwich.<br>
The good ‘uns continue this week at The Jolly Nailor – Atherton – Friday 19th Sept.</p>
<p>Ok what else – well I could easily start ranting but instead I will just mention a few observations,</p>
<p>It seems a long time ago now as it has taken me so long to write this but no sooner has the Commonwealth games thankfully finished but unbelievably more athletics began. The BBC must have been ecstatic about this; they are the only ones that were though. I mean realistically how much athletics do most people want to see?</p>
<p>Needless to say the football season is now back in full swing, did it ever finish, we can look forward to endless coverage of experts telling us all about it in addition to the hours of actual games. I won’t be watching.</p>
<p>I’m not sure about you but I have been doing quite a bit of driving around the country recently and I do believe that the motorways are becoming more clogged all the time. I don’t have a solution but something needs to be done. I may have mentioned recently I did get a train from London to Liverpool and it was quick and on time. Only downside is the cost – maybe if they made it more comparable with the motoring cost for a similar journey it might get a few people on the train and off the roads? . Just a thought. Oh sorry this was written before the fares increased recently. So much for that thought.</p>
<p>As you know I like to read biographies of musicians regardless of what genre they are from and I have just finished one by Paul Stanley from Kiss. Whenever I read music biographies they talk about the background to some of their music so I always have the urge to hear it (again), my recent read being no exception. So the blame is on Paul Stanley for me working through three Kiss Alive albums. It actually makes them more interesting when you know the background although having said that and even allowing for when it was recorded and the immaturity of the band at the time Kiss Alive is still not a great listen. Alive II is a slight improvement due to the fact that many of the songs are from the co-written Destroyer although the studio side (side 4) is not good as even Paul Stanley admits. The third one is definitely the best of the bunch as by the time it was recorded the band had grown older and wiser and had also replaced Peter Criss (drums) and Ace Frehley (lead guitar). Certainly this was a good move as their replacements appear to be much better musicians. It has more “hits” on it as well. Ultimately though Kiss are best experienced as a full audiovisual package.</p>
<p>They do have the right idea though, play catchy sing-a-long songs and present them in a fun entertaining show. Isn’t that what it is all about? People just want to have fun and go home with a smile on their face.</p>
<p>My major listening over the last few days has been another old favourite of mine UFO. I’ve been a fan since the early 70s when I first saw them on Whistle test (they were actually at the roundhouse – it was on film). I own pretty much everything they have recorded in their various line-ups. For a lot of people guitar hero Michael Schenker is UFO but for me its vocalist Phil Mogg who defines their sound. I’ve seen the band many times in their various incarnations and the current line-up is still very much UFO. Their output is prodigious as well, not a band to rest on their laurels and just churn out the hits year after year. Obviously live they do play many of the old classics but they always include newer material as well which I think is great.</p>
<p>Anyway I am not going to carry on or I run the risk of this never being posted.<br>
So apart from saying I can’t believe it is 37 years ago today since Marc Bolan died,<br>
Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Be back a bit sooner next time<br>
Craig</p>
<p>.</p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/733/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/733/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//pixel.wp.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=733&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/30533722014-07-02T18:38:24+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Cancellations, Cambridge, Lucky me and Dio<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Wednesday 2nd July</p>
<p>No gigs this week, we were supposed to be at the Cattle market in Preston but apparently the people running it have left. They didn’t tell us of course so a good job I checked. If you remember the last time we were supposed to play there they cancelled us as they had double booked.</p>
<p>No wonder the brewery wanted them out, obviously totally disorganised, apparently they have a new pub called the Seven Stars (Lancaster I think?) and they are looking for a band this week. They could have at least offered it to us not that we would go anywhere near them again. Really don’t need it to be honest.</p>
<p>Since I wrote the above yesterday it seems the same thing has happened to the Royal Oak in Blackpool. We palyed there New year’s Eve and were giben a gig for Aug 2nd. From what I have been told this is another pub that has changed hands and unlikely the gig will be honoured.</p>
<p>Places like this really aren’t worth the effort (and it is a lot of effort) chasing for gigs.<br>
Actually we are thinking of reducing the number of gigs we do. The whole live music scene has changed and now you find that many venues won’t turn TVs off when you are playing, people just want to play pool and basically you wonder why they bother putting bands on. </p>
<p>We are going to try and avoid places like that in future, concentrate on venues where people are actually there for music. Even then of course many of them only want tributes. </p>
<p>Ok so last Friday we were in the Naval club, Connah’s Quay – a nice enough venue and friendly people but really not a rock music venue. We are booked to return but I don’t think we will.</p>
<p>The next big event for us is Cambridge Rock festival – be nice to play a set of originals to people who are there for the music.</p>
<p>So what else – bizarrely and mainly due to boredom I have become sucked in to watching the world cup. Some of it has been ok actually. I don’t mind the knock out games, the group matches were a bit tedious. I still find it pathetic that after four years of effort England’s campaign lasted two matches. It is no wonder though, every foreign player in th etournament seems to play for an English club, which is presumably why England has no decent players.</p>
<p>Tennis has started now of course and Murray is doing ok but I will give that a miss.</p>
<p>What else, well I have been in Leicester recently and it seems a really vibrant city. Quite enjoyed it, More historical than I expected and a lot going on. </p>
<p>Rants</p>
<p>Well this week I figure that rather than rant on about things which are essentially trivial although I could, I will instead take the opportunity to consider myself fortunate to have been born where I was. I don’t have to wake up each day wondering where I am going to find food and water, If I am ill most things can be cured quite simply by a trip to the doctor and some pills or even a stay in hospital, I have access to books, education, transport, electricity, gas, drains. I can listen to and watch music and programmes from all over the world at the flick of a switch and I am not in danger of being killed or eaten.<br>
So really minor annoyances need to be put in perspective.</p>
<p>Music</p>
<p>Glastonbury has been most people’s musical reference this week, not really somewhere I have ever been interested in going to be honest . Always more hippie/folkie than rock these days it has simply become fashionable. A reasonably mixed line up of pop and well know acts to be fair including the obligatory legend act – Dolly Parton this year.<br>
Metallica were a surprising choice but appear to have fared well enough, never a fan myself although I did catch a bit of them doing what they do.</p>
<p>All I can say is the best festival in the country is the Cambridge Rock Festival, a reasonably sized festival for music fans run (brilliantly) by music fans. Even better we are there again this year having played in 2011.</p>
<p>So what have I enjoyed this week – well I haven’t really listened to much at all. Ah tell a lie, I did listen to the whole of Dio’s Holy Diver – Live album.</p>
<p>Certainly reminded me as to how great a vocalist Ronnie James Dio was, R.I.P.</p>
<p>Until next time </p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig<br>
<a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com</a></p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/729/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/729/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=729&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/30398922014-06-25T18:57:07+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Cars, Cambridge Rock festival and National Armed forces day.<p><a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Ok so it has been a while I admit. Important stuff first, we play</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Friday 27th June</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>The Naval Club</strong></p>
<p>Connah’s Quay</p>
<p>Given that Saturday is National Armed forces day this is a good gig to do the day before. Our Admiration, appreciation and thanks goes out to everyone who has or does put themeslves at risk in order to allow the rest of us to live safe and peaceful lives.</p>
<p>So what else has been happening since the last update, well the Football world cup of course which I find extremely tedious and now England have spectacularly failed to adavance is even less interesting than it was previously.</p>
<p>Sadly we now have more sport to replace it in the form of Wimbeldon, already on both BBC TV channels at once. This will be followed up by The Tour de France (starting in Yorkshire??) and the Golf Open.</p>
<p>Ok – so I guess you have realised I don’t like sport.</p>
<p>Car playing up recently, overheating – not a pleasant experience driving 150 miles with one eye on the temp gauge and one on the rear view mirror in case an artic truck ploughs into the back of you. Typical that it happens just before MOT and road tax due as well. I suppose the freedom from having a car can’t be expected to be free.</p>
<p>Had a flying trip (no pun intended) abroad recently, Easyjet from Liverpool Airport. Have to say I found both the airport and the airline very acceptable, a pleasant surprise.</p>
<p>Musically I have pretty much abandoned listening to Planet rock radio and not found a suitable replacement, so it has been the Ipod most of the time. Nothing new loaded so the usual shuffle.</p>
<p>The band are still playing of course and as mentioned previously we are looking forward to returning to the Cambridge Rock Festival in August. Be good to be in the company of FM, Snakecharmer and Wishbone Ash plus numerous others.</p>
<p>We are still rocking everywhere else of course, see our website for full details <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com/livedates" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com/livedates</a>.</p>
<p>New venues for us included:- Elton Fold WMC in Bury and The Musketeer In Leigh. Both were great gigs and we are looking forward to returning to both. More disappointing was the Saith Seren (Seven Stars) in Wrexham. Very poor attendance which may have been due to the football rather than the venue. Whatever it was I doubt we will be asked back although it was our second appearance there; venues only book bands that enable them to sell beer. Ah well we will keep rockin’. </p>
<p>No rants this week, apart from the fact that wide loads are allowed to hog two lanes of major motorways in peak hours causing huge trafffic queues! Also the extortionate cost of train fares.</p>
<p>Music – Nothing to recommend – my current listening has included Roxette, T.Rex, Miranda Lambert, Black Sabbath and Cat Stevens.</p>
<p>So until next time – Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p><a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
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<p> </p><br> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/674/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/674/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=674&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/29819222014-05-30T15:27:52+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00May 31st, Vinyl and living on Water.<p><a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com </a>- Official website for UK Good time feel good rockers – The Clan</p>
<p>@theclanrock – Twitter</p>
<p>Well I started writing this last week but time slipped away. I’ll carry on with it anyway after I tell you that this weekend (May 31st) we are at:-</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Saturday 31st May</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Hoggs ‘n’ Heifers</strong></p>
<p>Bentham</p>
<p>West Yorkshire</p>
<p>We love to play here and apparently it is carnival day so a lot happening around the town. Should be better than usual.</p>
<p>Ok back to where I was a couple of weeks ago - So another bank holiday weekend came and went and rain forecast – No suprise really. Not that I am complaining as the previous weekend was very hot and sunny followed of course by thunder and lightening. For anyone wondering where the bank holiday weekend gigs were we had a well earned weekend off. Good to know you are not playing every now and again, a chance to do something else.</p>
<p>This followed two crackin’ gigs. The first was at the Greyhound in Beeston. We love this place and it didn’t disappoint. Not as full as usual but sound was great (Thanks Ade), the new management and staff are great and what a brilliant audience. Met up with some old friends and made a few new ones. We will return.</p>
<p>Sunday afternoon saw us in Ighten Leigh (Burnley). Despite the hot sunny weather outside and a 5:30 start we had a decent sized crowd in this great venue and everyone had a good time. Home at a reasonble time as well!</p>
<p>I seem to have a yearning for boats at the moment, what with Canal trips, Boat trip on the Thames etc. The Saturday saw us on the Mersey Ferry which we used to take Gemma (the dog) over to Albert dock. A very pleasant trip across and a large cruise ship (Celebrity lines) to look at as well. A good atmosphere at the Albert dock/Pier head and a very successful trip.</p>
<p>I have been catching up on some swimming recently as well, got to do something to try and convince myself I am relatively fit. I do enjoy it actually, quite relaxing.</p>
<p>Maybe I should restart my writing career as well and complete my book, Now there are downloadable books it will be far easier to distribute and make available. Food for thought.</p>
<p>What else have i been up to? Well I think I mentioned I was clearing a few things out and Ebay has been busy. I am selling some vinyl records so I have reconnected my turntable and given some of them a listen whilst transferring them to Digital format. There is definitley somethng more pleasing about 12″ albums due to the sleeves. It was great to be re-reading some of them and remembering the excitement at procuring them. Just not he same when you click a button for a download. Youngsters will never appreciate this I guess although apparently most major bands are releasing their new recordings as limited edition vinyl options. Times have changed though and the vinyl editions are quite pricey.</p>
<p>Finally managed to sort out the home studio/office so demos have been started for some new Clan material. Some blues amongst the rock. Speaking of Blues we play the well known and “prestigious” BJs Blues night in Chorley on July 24th. Quite difficult to get on there so it’s a good one for us. May try and rehearse a few more bluesy numbers before then if we get the chance.</p>
<p>June is looking quite busy for gigs although we are avoiding June 14th due to the first England World cup match. Not because we are interested but because it will probably be shown on TV in every venue making a live band pointless.</p>
<p>We also had some interest from Phantom records this week, possibly a photoshoot on the cards. Just waiting to see what they say.</p>
<p>Ok that’s pretty much the news for now so here are the rants</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>RANTS</strong></span></p>
<p>Recently I have seen a couple of people on the TV who really do think they are far more important than they actually are.</p>
<p>1) Tom Daley. I unfortunatley caught some of his round the world program and he seemed to be constantly saying how great it was to be in places where he doesn’t get recognised and can be himself. Well I am pretty sure that would happen if he walked down most people’s roads. I mean come on, I know he is somewhat obvious due to his sun tan but really does anyone care enought to bother him? I admit I wouldn’t do it but at the end of the day all he does is fall from a height into water for a living. Not really important is it?</p>
<p>2) Unknown Eastender. No I don’t watch the program as personally I find it dreadful and depressing but this guy from it whoever he is turned up on a couple of other programs recently. One was masterchef where the contestants served the Eastenders team, he moaned about the food and showed himslef up to have no manners or tact, then he was on a chat show (Paul O Grady I think it was ) where he made insulting remarks about Timothy West, who at the end of the day is a much finer actor than this lout will ever be. So no, I don’t know who he is, don’t really care but he needs to look at himself hard and realise that as far as acting goes he is playing himself and that is not a very nice character. Some people get one sniff of recognition and it goes to their heads as they confuse it with talent. As we all know that is not necessarily the case of course. Recognition and fame has far more to being in the right place at the right time or who you know.</p>
<p>Politics has been in the news recently of course specifically UKIP. Now I don’t really voice my opinions on politics and I am still not going to. All I will say is that UKIP seem to have a good PR/Marketing team behind them.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Music</strong></span></p>
<p>Been listening to a range of music recently. Haven’t listened to planet rock radio ofr a while and sure enought within ten minutes of me putting it on yesterday AC/DC were on. So it got turned off rather quickly. Not that I mind AC/DC but they do overplay them a bit. For me the thing with AC/DC is the lack of variety. Most bands including heavyweights such as Sabbath, Purple, Rainbow, Metallica, Zeppelin, Priest etc. do change the tempo and play ballads or blues type songs every now and again. AC/DC just seem to reproduce the same thing over and over again which their fans sem to love but I find a bit tedious after 10 minutes.</p>
<p>Speaking of this I read recently that you can’t keep selling the same thing over and over again which is why the likes off Bowie, Queen and Madonna have stayed commercially successful. They changed their styles and reinvented themselves on a regular basis. True, they have but there are multiple examples of bands who have stayed with their style and remain commercially active to this day AC/DC, Sabbath, Saxon, Iron Maiden, U2 to name a few. So who is right?</p>
<p>I think the thing about music is there are no rules so do whatever you want and don’t try to pre-empt.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So what is my recommendation this week? I think I have recommended this before but if so here it is again,</p>
<p>Robin Trower – Living out of time (Studio album)</p>
<p>Until next time Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/599/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/599/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=599&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/29282212014-05-08T10:01:34+01:002017-01-14T00:19:03+00:00Want to play your guitar cranked to 10 – I show you how. Also this week Buses, Boats and bands.<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> </p>
<p>Well here we go again, First of all – This week’s gigs</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Saturday 10th May</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>The Hop pocket</strong></p>
<p>Carr lane</p>
<p>Chorley</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Sunday 11th May</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>The Old Market Tavern</strong></p>
<p>Altrincham</p>
<p>Hopefully we will have the full band at the Hop Pocket this week as we had to use a last minute stand in on (electronic) drums last time due to Jim having a car breakdown. At least this week we are in a van so if one of us can’t make it none of us will. We will be there though. Too good a gig to miss and we will put on the full show.</p>
<p>The Old Market Tavern has long been a good venue for bands but Sunday is probably not the best night. Still you never know, people may stay at home on Saturday to watch Eurovision and come out on Sunday instead haha. Yeah right.</p>
<p>Ok that is this what is happening this week, what about last week? Well on Friday afternoon Dangerosu Dave and I filmed the latest in the line of my “gear” videos. This one covers how to use a high power amplifier in smaller venues where less volume is required but keeping the amp fully cranked in order to get the required tone is of benefit. The video is already now up and running on Youtube thnaks to Dave’s prompt efforts – Check it out <a href="http://youtu.be/HuVoetGdrP0">here. </a> It has had a few viewings and good responses already.</p>
<p>Friday night I popped along to the Swinging Arm in Birkenhead to see good friends Insanity Beach. Always a good show from them and nice to be on the other side of the stage for a change. I dd hustle for a gig there with the new booker but so far nothing forthcoming?? Our home town seems to be the only place where we are not appreciated but not going to lose sleep over it. Managed to catch up with a few other people there and bumped into a couple (Brian and Linda) I have not seen since my days in The SWITCH (Circa 1990). We had a chat about that and specifically gigs we played with Dumpys Rusty Nuts. Are they still playing, last references I can find are 2012?</p>
<p>Saturday was mainly a lazy day preparing for a late night as we were playing Marigolds in Darwen. An upstairs gig starting after midnight wasn’t really a thrilling prospect ut as it turned out it was probably the best gig we have played this year. We dispensed with the less essential parts of the show (lasers, smoke machines, backdrop etc) due to haviving to lug everything up the stairs but the gig was a stormer and everyone had a great time including us. Looking forward to returning again.</p>
<p>Prior to the doors opening at 10:30 we popped into the White Lion next door and spoke to the band there, – The Power 3. Nice blokes and from what we caught of their first set, good stuff. Must try and catch a full set by them at some point. White Lion is a potential venue for us as well so must follow that up.</p>
<p>By the time we got back home on Sunday morning (6am) it was time for me to catch a bus to London, first time travelling there by bus. Turned out to be a fairly pleasant experience actually, not bad at all. The main reason I went by bus rather than train being the amount of engineering work on the rail network over the bank holiday was making train journeys longer than the bus journey.</p>
<p>So having met the other half who had driven down previously we had a very pleasant afternoon by the river in Richmond , stayed overnight and enjoyed the Bank holiday Monday on a boat trip down the Thames in the sun. Drove home early evening. A nice little break.</p>
<p> That is all for last week really.</p>
<p> I bought Classic rock magazine to read on the bus (not bought it for a while) so I have been listening to the free CD they included – Black Stone Cherry. I have heard a few things by them and it is all good stuff. Nice to hear a new (only 13 years old) band doing well with original music.</p>
<p>Had a bit of a sort out recently, and despite disposing of quite a lot I still seem to be in possession of a lot of gear I currently don’t and probably never will use so maybe an Ebay posting in the offing. I will have a think about that.</p>
<p>So until next time that’s it from me,</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig – <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">The Clan</a></p>
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<p> </p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/570/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/570/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=570&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/29032292014-04-28T09:28:58+01:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Clan News, T.Rex and Cambridge Rock Festival<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well hopefully a full update here. First off, this week <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">The Clan </a>play</p>
<p><strong>Saturday 3<sup>rd</sup> May</strong></p>
<p><strong>Marigolds</strong></p>
<p>Darwen</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p>** N.B. – Opens 10:30pm, we play after midnight **</p>
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<p>Nothing on Friday yet but hopefully address that this week. Any update will follow on <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">Web site</a>, FB and <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/@theclanrock" target="_blank">Twitter.</a></p>
<p>So last week we played the Ship in St Helens. Not a bad gig at all, hopefully a return on the Cards. In fact I will be having a bit of a drive for gigs this week.</p>
<p>So what else, well recently I had a few days break on the Canals. What a great way to relax and see the beautiful British Countryside, no need to worry about time, brilliant. The weather was kind to us but it wouldn’t really have mattered. In reality you don’t travel that far but again it’s irrelevant.</p>
<p>I feel like travelling a bit more at the moment but don’t have the time really. Need to reduce my food intake as well, seems to have increased recently, not sure why. Needs addressing.</p>
<p>Still waiting to hear if the band is to play Cambridge Rock Festival this year. Looking unlikely but we would love to return. Fingers crossed. No news is good news as they say.</p>
<p>The “new” Rock for You EP has been doing ok both at gigs and from the download sites and also had some good comments in the rock media. Quite pleased with that.</p>
<p>Not going to make us a household name but as long as some people like it that is good enough for me.</p>
<p>I tried out my Tokai “Les Paul” guitar at the Hoggs ‘n’ Heifers the other week but true to form I picked up my Strat again after about three numbers. I don’t know, I don’t get on with the Les Paul shape and soundwise it just didn’t have what I expected. I had an actual Gibson for 10 years and that was the same really, which is why I eventually sold it. I doubt I will do anything further live with the Tokai if I am being honest. Shame as it looks the part for certain songs. Maybe it would be better with a higher output pick-up. I will think about that for a while.</p>
<p>Had a bit of a sort out generally the other day and it was amazing how much stuff has accumulated over the years. Managed to dispose of some of it and probably still a fair bit that can be let go either to the tip or sold. The amount of cables in boxes was unbelievable. Most of them out of date now (does anyone still use SCART leads?) As for CDs? Once they are added to the MP3 players do they ever get used again? I now have boxes full in the attic. Most new albums are bought as downloads apart from a few obscure ones but even they are surplus when loaded into tunes.</p>
<p>Would anyone buy the CDs? I doubt it. Maybe I should do a car boot sale, could be fun, quite a few vinyl albums and pre-recorded cassettes up there as well?</p>
<p>Anyway one of the offshoots from all the sorting is that my office/studio has been revamped although it is still a work in progress. Hopefully it won’t be too long until it is operational to record again as I have a lot of ideas in my mind.</p>
<p>Is it just me or is Football really on TV 24 hours a day? I don’t mind the odd live match but it does seem that any old game is worthy of broadcasting these days and people will watch it. I am sure many people would watch 4th division Canadian Football if it was on and still think it was important. It’s really not.</p>
<p>The only things I have been watching recently are “Suits” on Dave and “Breaking Bad” on Netflix.</p>
<p>I am even tending to avoid the News, as most of it is irrelevant or sensationalist and has little or no impact on me. Obviously tragedies are reported and they are very sad of course but as far as the news is concerned they are 7-day wonders until the next one comes along. I suppose it is their business but I find it quite callous.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Rants</strong></span></p>
<p> Well if you thought I had already had these above then I must now officially be a grumpy old man.</p>
<p> So what is winding me up at the moment, well as you know I do try to stay calm and not let things bother me but ….</p>
<p> People who throw litter from cars, not the just the odd sweet paper but carrier or paper bags full. Generally it is fast food packaging. I don’t get this, they have it in the car so why not just keep it there until they get home or find a bin. It’s not really that difficult.</p>
<p>Bit like spitting really, what is that all about? Unless you are ill or have swallowed a fly is it really necessary? I don’t think so.</p>
<p>I think the issue is really that there are a group of people who no longer have respect for anyone else, it’s all about just doing what they want to do when they want. Well sadly life/civilised society doesn’t work that way and people who think it does will learn their lesson the hard way although no doubt blame everyone else except themselves.</p>
<p>Loyalty cards, seems like every single business has one these days, you need a separate bag to carry them all. What do most of them get you, very little in reality but we go along with it for the chance of a free coffee or a couple of quid off the weekly shop. It’s simple really we all know that the costs in the shops are set to allow for these “rewards” to be provided but we still think we are getting something back. We are not of course, we have already paid for the reward but I assume it makes us feel better? What do the companies get, well, free targeted marketing via Email, telephones and shock horror, possibly even by post.</p>
<p>So really if these are the only things bothering me I reckon I am in a fairly good place. All minor things and as I have said before the most important thing we can have is our health. Family and good friends are close behind. Nothing else really matters.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Music</strong></span></p>
<p> Back to my roots this week – T.Rex. I managed to acquire the music from the T.Rex Born to Boogie Film on CD, which saved me transferring it from the DVD to MP3 myself. Good stuff if you skip over the non-music silly film bits. The afternoon concert, which was not used for the film, is pretty decent as well.</p>
<p>I am also expecting a 1971 concert CD called the Electric Boogie to arrive this week. It has a few of the earlier Tyrannosaurus ex tracks on it such as Elemental Child, which I haven’t heard live.</p>
<p> It was suggested to me that I go to see the 20<sup>th</sup> century Boy musical about Marc Bolan, which is meant to be good, but I don’t think it is my cup of tea. I know the Bolan story very well and I am not a fan of musicals anyway especially where they take a string of unrelated hits and try to put them together around a flimsy storyline e.g. We will rock you, mama Mia and the Rod Stewart one. My opinion is if you want to hear the music live and the band no longer performs then I suppose it is better to see a good tribute band.</p>
<p>As far as I am concerned I will stick to the original T.Rex Albums and Videos of the real thing.</p>
<p>So this week my current listening is T.Rex – Born to Boogie Soundtrack</p>
<p> Until next week – Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/524/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/524/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=524&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/28437882014-04-04T07:48:10+01:002021-04-06T10:07:25+01:00It may be April but we are no fools.<p>Ok here we go, hopefully this is a return to the normal format First off of course this week’s gigs</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Friday 4<sup>th</sup> April</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Dog & Partridge</strong></p>
<p> Stockport</p>
<p><strong>Saturday 5<sup>th</sup> April</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Witton Chimes</strong></p>
<p>Northwich, Cheshire</p>
<p>The Witton Chimes has been a regular gig for us over the last four years and it’s always been a good one. Let’s hope the trend continues. The Dog & Partridge is a new one for us which is always good fun. Never know what to expect.</p>
<p>Ok for those of you who only want that info you have it. For those wanting more then please continue…….</p>
<p>The big news this week of course is the release of the “Rock for You” EP which went on general download sale worldwide last Monday. We have distributed the promo CDs to the media so it’s all proceeding as planned. Speaking of CD versions if anyone does prefer that format to the Downloads then they can be ordered through our web site or purchased at gigs of course.</p>
<p>Last Weekend we played another regular venue which has always been kind to us, the Clwyd in Shotton. We managed to deliver a few different songs in the set and a good night was had by all. We recently took delivery of a new section for the backdrop, to match the logo we use elsewhere. We think it looks pretty good and keeps the branding consistent. I am still hoping to finalise a T-shirt design. My prototype version 2 looked ok to me but it hasn’t generated enough positive comments to warrant the cost of producing a batch to sell. Back to the drawing board I guess. Possibly the artwork used for the Rock for you EP?</p>
<p>I have been doing quite a lot of thinking recently (never a good idea) as to how to increase the band profile and a few ideas may be followed up.</p>
<p>Some time ago I mentioned that I was taking delivery of a “Bad Cat Unleash”. Well I am very pleased to report that so far the box does what it claims to do and therefore I have been able to start using my Marshall Super Lead Plexi (SLP) amp onstage again. The long standing problem of how to boost for solos has been conquered by the Bad Cat. Coda music who supplied it are excellent by the way.</p>
<p>Oh yes, speaking of equipment the band and I have been offered a partial endorsement deal for some specific strings and drumsticks. Like the chicken pick plectrums I was offered a while ago we need to try the products out before we agree. Not a manufacturer I have heard of to be honest but that doesn’t mean they are not worth looking at.</p>
<p>There is a good chance my next “gear” video will be produced this month. The Valves/Solid state amp comparison has now reached 100,000 viewings which I find quite astonishing to be honest. Most of the comments posted on it have been favourable although a few are abusive or over pedantic. That is the internet for you.</p>
<p>It’s been so long since I wrote one of these I can’t remember what has happened. I may be repeating myself. We all went off to see classic rockers Saxon at the Tivoli not long ago. A support band called Stormzone were good and Saxon delivered their classic and new tracks with a sense of humour and fun. All good stuff although a bottle of Newcastle Brown was a bit steep at £5.00. I think that was somewhat unnecessary really. It was nice to see the Tivoli in Buckley so full.</p>
<p>Not much coming up in the way of gigs to go to. My second favourite guitarist Bernie Tormé is ready to record a new album (funded via Pledgemusic) and he will be following up with a tour later this year. Needless to say I am exploring the possibilities of some support slots although it is up to the promoters really, not Bernie himself so I won’t hold my breath. I am glad he is back solo really, although GMT were quite good I think Bernie solo has more scope and freedom to play whatever he wants.</p>
<p>I still keep plugging away at Cambridge Rock Festival as we would love to return to that. We were told we would but not when? We are “headlining” the Saturday night at a local charity festival in Warrington later in the year. It’s in aid of Christie Hospital and the festival is called Wibbstock. I think they are in year four so it should be reasonably well organised. No Hoylake Oxjam this year. We do have to be careful with Charity gigs, we get asked to do a lot of them and whilst we would love to say yes to them all it would cost us quite a bit if we did as they often don’t even pay travel expenses. So we tend to only do two a year.</p>
<p>Well what has annoyed me recently?</p>
<p>The News, I do wonder sometimes what the producers of news programs are thinking. Today I heard that a group of people won’t be doing something this year. Well a lot of us won’t be doing a lot of things this year but it is not news.</p>
<p>A celebrity couple split up – it’s not news and really not important to anyone but them and their family. Plus they seem to make a big thing about them being together for ten years as though that is some huge achievement. Yes ten years is quite a long time but it’s not really that long in terms of a couple being together. There are an awful lot of people who have been together a lot longer.</p>
<p>So the Tour de France cycle race is starting in Leeds this year. Yes, Leeds in Yorkshire, UK. I cannot think of any logical reason for this, am I missing something?</p>
<p>As you know i don’t smoke and never have but smokers are really getting a raw deal. First the smoking ban brought in to protect others(?), then the inclusion of graphic pictures on the packets, clearly had no impact as they are now switching to plain packets, hiding them in cupboards in shops and now this week the Welsh are banning e-Cigs fin public places for no logical reason whatsoever.</p>
<p>Ok Rants over</p>
<p><strong>Music</strong> Musically thiis week – The Clan Rock for you EP.</p>
<p>It’s cheaper than a beer and lasts longer Available <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/albums">here </a></p>
<p>Keep rockin’ Craig </p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/517/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/517/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=517&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/28143802014-03-26T13:16:02+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Rock for You – New Four track EP from Good time feel good UK rockers ,The Clan<p><strong>Rock for You – The Clan </strong></p>
<p><strong> <a href="http://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/cmcd0110-sleeve-art-1400px.jpg"><img src="//craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/cmcd0110-sleeve-art-1400px.jpg?w=134&h=134" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Image" height="134" id="i-510" width="134" /></a></strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>UK Rockers The Clan release their fourth single on Monday 31<sup>st</sup> March. </strong></p>
<p><strong>The song has long been a crowd favourite with it’s sing-along chorus but this is the first time a Clan recording of the song has been released. </strong></p>
<p>Another studio recording, Someone Else, complements the release. For good measure two previously unreleased live versions of Home of the Devil and The Few are included to round the package off.</p>
<p>The two studio tracks were recorded in Liverpool’s Parr Street Studio with once again Russ Cottier producing. This time however it was back to basics, all the band playing in the studio at the same time, no click tracks. Vocals and lead guitar were added later of course. It gives a nice live feel to the sound which is what The Clan are all about of course.</p>
<p>The Live tracks were recorded during a performance at Birkenhead’s Swinging Arm a couple of years ago. No overdubs, they are as they were on the night.</p>
<p>As usual all the songs were written and composed by guitarist/vocalist Craig McDonald.</p>
<p><strong>In addition to being available from the band’s website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">www.clan-rock.com </a>it can be obtained via download from ITunes and most other digital distributors from 31-04-2014. </strong></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/503/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/503/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=503&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/22861672013-12-25T08:29:09+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Merrry Christmas, Remaining 2013 Clan gigs and Black Sabbath Live review<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
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<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Remaining gigs for 2013:-</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 27<sup>th</sup> December</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Brunswick</b></p>
<p><b>Crewe</b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 28th December</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Griffin</b></p>
<p><b>Newton le Willows/Earlestown</b></p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;"></span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Tuesday 31<sup>st</sup> December (New Years Eve)</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Royal Oak</b></p>
<p><b>Lytham Road</b></p>
<p><b>Blackpool</b></p>
<p></p>
<p>Well its Christmas Day on Wednesday so on behalf of the Clan; I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas. Have a great day.</p>
<p>Since the last update we have had a couple of gigs, Chester Alexanders last Thursday and Preston the Cattle Market last Saturday. Both gigs went well and I managed to get through them despite suffering with some form of major cough/cold/flu which kept me asleep all day Friday. Still suffering actually, hopefully get better this week.</p>
<p>Not over impressed with the car at the moment, starter motor seems to have refused to do its job. Car runs fine with a bump start but cant really use it as relying on there being people around to push it or finding slopes to park on is a bit hit and miss. Plus if it stalls for any reason I will be stuck.</p>
<p>I have actually taken it to my usual garage only to discover that they dont seem to be working this week.</p>
<p>At the risk of sounding like a Bah humbug, Christmas can be quite inconvenient. L</p>
<p>Hmm, contingency plan required.</p>
<p>I contacted the T-shirt printers the other day as my one off clan shirt still hasnt arrived. Apparently it is being sent out today (Monday) first class, cant see it arriving before the weekend though.</p>
<p>So as you know I went to see Black Sabbath last week in Manchester. I have added a full review at the end of this blog for those interested. For those who dont want to read the full thing it is suffice to say if you like Black Sabbath I dont think you would have been disappointed.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>It was forty five minutes before we even moved in order to get out of the Manchester arena car park after the Sabbath gig plus a further 20 minutes actually getting out. Now it seems strange to me, a fairly modern purpose built arena with a purpose built car park, you would think it would be more efficient. I cant imagine this happening in the States. I find it all a bit pathetic really. Oh yes 12 for the privilege as well.</p>
<p>I am so fed up of cookery shows on TV, every time I look there is yet another one showing us how to make the perfect Christmas this or the perfect Christmas that. How many times do we need to watch someone cooking a turkey?</p>
<p>The adverts are as bad, all the supermarkets competing for our pounds.</p>
<p>I have mentioned this before but people walking along in a busy high street appearing to be talking to themselves. Ok so they are obviously on a phone of some sort but unless you can see the device they just look really stupid and appear to be somewhat odd. Some of them are also very loud so it just seems as though they are shouting at random strangers. No doubt when the Google glasses hit UK we are going to see even more of this.</p>
<p>Being Christmas of course we now get lots of programs on the TV which are the best 100 this and the worst 100 that. Inevitably they are programs which have people I dont know talking about other people I dont know or really dont care about. Complete and utter drivel.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Not really has a chance to listen to much at all for some reason. Just seem to have been busy doing other things. I downloaded a few things from Itunes to add into the Ipod playlists we use at gigs.</p>
<p>Need to sort out the one for New Years Eve actually as we are to provide the music for the evening as well as playing.</p>
<p>Oh yes- I did listen to some Hank Marvin and the shadows. Never a big fan as they were before my time really but I can see why at the time they were probably quite revolutionary and inspired quite a lot of young lads to play guitar. It is always interesting to check out the roots of music and other peoples influences. Certainly I can see where Mark Knopfler was coming from; he is the first to admit this.</p>
<p>Ill say one thing for Hank, the tone of his Stratocaster and what I presume is a Vox amp is actually still pretty pleasing to my ears. Multiple instrumentals can get a bit boring but I suppose they compensated for this in later years by doing instrumental versions of well known hits with reasonable success.</p>
<p>I think my choice of album for the week though is Black Sabbath 13</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Black Sabbath review</span></b></p>
<p>I arrived at the Manchester arena too late for the support act, I had checked on t net and never heard of them anyway despite them claiming to be Britains best new rock band! A comment always guaranteed to alienate any musicians in the audience.</p>
<p>Never heard their name mentioned by anyone so suspect nothing missed there.</p>
<p>So 8:45pm caught a few people out, we get air raid sirens and it can only mean one thing, War pigs. A huge stage set that doubled as video screens but apart from that the stage was reasonably clear. Just Iommis eight 4*12 Laney cabs and Geezers eight 4*12 Hartke cabs either side of the raised drumkit. Tony strikes the first notes of the song and wow, this can only be Black Sabbath. Geezer is doing amazing things on his bass (oft overlooked) and then Ozzy launches into it, generals gathered in their masses to which the entire sell out crowd sing along. I think there was a huge sigh of relief that Ozzy was sounding good as numerous internet tales told otherwise but he delivered all night as only Ozzy can.</p>
<p>The light show was rather excellent as you would expect on a big budget tour but ultimately Sabbath delivered unlike any other band I have ever seen. They dont have to play fast, although most of their songs do have tempo changes for different sections, it is simply the overall sound that makes them different from anyone else. Ozzys voice combined with Iommis guitar just works. Geezer on bass is incredibly important in the jigsaw and although Bill Ward was not on the drums the guy who was (sorry- dont know his name) did a very good impression (both sonically and visually) to complete the experience of listening to one of the most important bands in the history of rock. With the exception of the drummer, these guys wrote these songs together so the songs were written to accommodate their individual styles and strengths, this is why when replacements are employed although being highly competent, it just doesnt sound as good.</p>
<p>This is what makes original or classic line ups better than the rest, its not just the playing, its the experiences that the members shared as a band whilst writing and recording the material. No one can replicate that or know what it really means.</p>
<p>No stage effects or distractions, just four guys cranking out a sound that has to be one of the definitions of rock.</p>
<p>*Note somewhere there was a keyboard player filling out the sound on some tracks but this was also true in 1977 so nothing for anyone to be concerned about. Certainly nowhere to be seen and absolutely no chance of a Rick Wakeman style keyboard solo (although actually Rick Wakeman was the session Keyboard player on the Sabbath Bloody Sabbath album) J.</p>
<p>As I mentioned last week with eight excellent albums ( dont count never say die) to choose from the set list was always going to be difficult to compile especially once they included the must play songs (Paranoid, Iron Man, Children of the grave etc.).</p>
<p>So what did we get?</p>
<p>Well I cant remember the exact order but</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From Black Sabbath:-</span></p>
<p>Black Sabbath, N.I.B., Behind the wall of sleep</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From Paranoid:-</span></p>
<p>War Pigs, Fairies wear boots, Iron man, Paranoid (encore) ,Rat Salad(drum solo)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From Master of Reality:-</span></p>
<p>Into the void, Children of the Grave</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From Vol 4:-</span></p>
<p>Snowblind, Under the sun</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From Technical Ecstasy:-</span></p>
<p>Dirty Women</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">From 13:-</span></p>
<p>Age of reason, God is dead, End of the beginning.</p>
<p>There was nothing from Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (well apart from four bars of the title tracks intro) or Sabotage.</p>
<p>Thankfully nothing from Never say die either.</p>
<p>It was interesting to see that the new songs fitted in seamlessly alongside the classics and nice to hear Under the sun, didnt expect that one. They didnt do the end section mind you. So although I am sure some people didnt hear their favourites something had to give and I doubt anyone complained about the song choices.</p>
<p>How Tony Iommi gets his guitar to sound like it does I have no idea but I have never heard anyone else come close to having such an awesome powerful sound. It sounded just like it does on Vol4 and that is fine by me.</p>
<p>Total time for gig 1:45 which I thought was perfectly acceptable. It might have been nice to have had Bill Ward on the drums but it was not meant to be for whatever reason.</p>
<p>For me it was still a 10/10 gig.</p>
<p>So until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/487/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/487/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=487&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/22475432013-12-17T19:40:20+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Bentham you rocked, Chester and Preston you will be rocked! Bad Sandwich shops and self lighting torches<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>This weeks gigs:-</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Thursday 19<sup>th</sup> December</span></b></p>
<p><b>Alexanders </b></p>
<p><b>Rufus Court </b></p>
<p><b>Chester</b></p>
<p><b>3.00 in Adv 4.00 Door</b></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 21<sup>st</sup> December</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Cattlemarket</b></p>
<p><b>Preston</b></p>
<p>Yes we have a Thursday gig! Just in time for what may hopefully be some works Christmas night outs possibly. We may even play its Christmas (Lets have a good time) Following that we have our last booked gig before Christmas in Preston on Saturday so hopefully both of them will be rocking ones.</p>
<p>Actually we are looking forward to Thursday as we dont get to play in Chester very often and Alexanders is a cracking venue.</p>
<p>Ok, unbelievably it appears that some of you dont actually read all the way to the end of my blogs so you missed this review of our Clan 100% Live album by SKOPE Radio. <a href="http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=169996" target="_blank">Check it out here.</a></p>
<p>You can then <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/100-live-ep/id521182552" target="_blank">buy the album here </a>if you dont already have it. J</p>
<p>I listened to it myself again the other day and what can I say it rocks!</p>
<p>Last Saturday we were in Hoggs & Heifers in Bentham. We have played there a few times and it gets better every time. Even having to hump all the gear up and down the stairs is almost bearable when its a good night. There were actually people literally swinging from the rafters, I kid you not.</p>
<p>My one off Clan T-shirt hasnt arrived yet, taking its time.I was hoping to wear it at the Sabbath gig tomorrow.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Hmm, Along with some other people it was decided to order some breakfast batches the other day from a new Sandwich bar.</p>
<p>So first of all I rang them, engaged. Then I sent the order via email to the address on their flyer only to have it bounced back with email address unknown. I rang again and got through, gave the order for four batches and they were all repeated back to me correctly. Lo and behold when they arrived mine had tomato sauce on it (which I detest). So not happy at all by the entire sequence of events I took it back and got a refund. Interestingly the email address posted in the shop was different to the one on their flyers. Even at this point the shop never apologised. Not a great way to start a new business.</p>
<p>Now I appreciate mistakes can happen (even when only putting four batches together) but I would have thought a good idea would have been to provide my refundand perhaps offer a free sandwich. That way I would probably have thought, ah, good service but instead I was just somewhat annoyed and promptly passed on my feelings to other people.</p>
<p>So as Mr Branson once said if you get something wrong then unless you do something about it you will lose that person and probably a number of others who are told of the bad service. It is therefore in a businesss interest to appease unhappy customers.</p>
<p>Something else that winds me up and to be fair I have heard Michael McIntyre do a rather amusing comedy sketch about this, is purchasing items which are in sealed moulded plastic. How exactly are you supposed to extract them and how can you repackage them if you need to return them?</p>
<p>Ok we all know that battery operated items have a switch on them. Usually it is the same action required to turn the item on as it is to turn it off. Either a slider or a press button. So, why is it whenever we put a battery operated device such as a torch in a pocket or a box it always manages to turn itself on and drain the battery? If you put it away left turned on the reverse just doesnt happen. They never turn themselves off even though the action is the same.</p>
<p>They only ever turn themselves on How is that?</p>
<p>Its a bit like cables coiling and tangling themselves in a box up without human intervention.</p>
<p>There are strange forces at work.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>This week well as I am off to see Black Sabbath tomorrow I have been reviewing their back Catalogue. Its pretty impressive too as long as you ignore the Never Say Die album which I think most people including the band do.</p>
<p>That still leaves eight great albums if you include the recent 13 so thats quite a few songs for them to choose a set list from. They cant play them all.</p>
<p>I think I have said it before but my favourite is still Black Sabbath Vol 4. Not only a great album but for those who remember such things a great iconic cover and on the brilliant Vertigo label. All these things completed the experience for me when I first heard the vinyl album way back in time but Im glad about that. You just dont get the same impact with a download.</p>
<p>So its got to be Black Sabbath Vol 4 for this week.</p>
<p>Next week will include a short Sabbath gig review</p>
<p>So until then,</p>
<p>Keep rockin</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/471/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/471/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=471&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/22046762013-12-10T20:03:50+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Ripley Rocked, Clan album review by Skope Radio, Hogs & Heifers and disappearing Ginsters!<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>This weeks gig</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> December</span></b></p>
<p><b>Hogs & Heifers</b></p>
<p><b>Bentham</b></p>
<p><b>Yorkshire</b></p>
<p>We like Hogs & Heifers, nice venue and good audience. Once again only the one gig but as always there is the possibility of a second cropping up (Friday 13th) so if it does we will let you know.</p>
<p>So last Sunday we were in Derbyshire at the Nags Head Ripley. Kicked off at 5:45 and finished at 8:15pm after three encores. What else can we say Great gig and home before 1:30!</p>
<p>Last week was my birthday, not a significant one although I am a year older now of course. DVDs seemed to be the main focus of the event, Hangover 3 which I have been looking forward to seeing for some time and also Karl Pilkington The Moaning of Life. Both were actually very funny.</p>
<p>I also treated myself to a couple of doses of Mr Blackmore on DVD:- Deep Purple Perfect Strangers Live (Australia 84) and Rainbow Live in Germany (95). You can say what you like about the man but there is no denying the guy can play.</p>
<p>Saturday morning I was hoping to meet up with Dangerous Dave for a breakfast fry up and a chin wag as hadnt seen him for a while. I have a couple of video ideas to be discussed amongst the general chat however it never happened. Still, keep watching out for those videos appearing early next year.</p>
<p>I took the bull by the horns last week and designed myself a Clan T-shirt with the help of an on-line T-shirt printing site. Figured I would just do the one, check out the quality and see if it generates any interest when I wear it. Im not great at design/art in fact I would say I am actually completely useless at it so I wont be holding my breath as to a positive response. Personally I think it looks quite good on the preview, not exactly what I wanted due to limitations of the site but well see when it arrives.</p>
<p>A couple of things happened recently which I think are worth mentioning. The first was the terrible incident in Glasgow which I am sure no one would have ever imagined happening. An incredibly tragic event that you really would never have envisaged happening when you left the house for a good night out.</p>
<p>The second of course is the passing of Nelson Mandela. A very inspirational man with great vision and conviction, unfortunately Im not sure the rest of his family have the same qualities.</p>
<p>So we are now a lot further into the Christmas season and possibly this year we may give a live airing to its Christmas (Lets have a good time). Weve never played it live but there is a strong possibility of it being performed at Alexanders Chester on 19<sup>th</sup>. That is currently looking like our last gig before Christmas Day.</p>
<p>As for Christmas itself I blow hot and cold really, I can see that having a focal point for a year is probably a good thing, also it does encourage people to meet up which they may not do otherwise. On the negative side though it is probably more to do with making money for many people and I do feel sorry for the people who are expected to work late on Christmas Eve and early on boxing day. I also feel sorry for the people who feel obliged to spend money they really cant afford on extra food, presents, decorations etc.</p>
<p>Its not a cheap business. Even posting Christmas cards can run up a hefty bill.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Jeremy Paxman what a moronic ignorant rude man. Im not sure if he was putting on an act when he was on BBCs one show last week but I dont think he was doing himself any favours. I actually thought his book (which he was supposed to be on the show plugging) sounded quite interesting but given that it is probably written with the same condescending attitude that the man obviously has I think Ill give it a miss. The guy is a journalist, same as many others, although in his deluded mind he obviously believes he is more important than that; hes not exactly changing the world and basically what he probably refers to as a strong assertive approach is called bad manners in my book no matter how he tries to dress it up.</p>
<p>I heard Miranda Hart on the radio the other day; she is apparently on a stand-up tour next year. Interestingly she was discussing the fact that it is in Arenas as opposed to theatres. Personally I am not a huge fan of 10,000 seat arenas for comedy or concerts. I much prefer to see people in theatres where even if you are at the back you can actually see the people you have paid to see. I dont really like to end up watching a giant screen and actually forgetting that the people are on the stage which is pretty much what happens. Yes I realise its more cost effective to play arenas and obviously generates more money but apart from bands like Kiss who have always geared their show to arenas from the start (very successfully I might add) Im still not convinced. For me the best shows are in clubs which hold a few hundred people and you can really see the performer(s).</p>
<p>I dont know why but my energy provider (Gas & Electric) is constantly sending me letters relating to the meter and the bill. We seem to forever being asked to read the meter and provide the reading, which we do, meter readers also seem to appear at very regularly intervals yet we receive bills indicating Estimated invariably requesting an increase in the monthly payments. I wish they would get their act together. What happens to the meter readings provided by us and their own meter readers I really do not know?</p>
<p>My good friend Neil Tudor posted recently about delays at the airport (caused as it turned out by the Air traffic system failure). I had to remind him that actually compared with the hardships endured by many people in the world waiting for a delayed plane was not exactly that bad but he quite rightly responded with the fact that I rant every week in this journal about far more trivial matters. I had to concede the point to be fair. It just reinforced the point that the pair of us have become grumps. Haha.</p>
<p>Argh when did Motorway services stop selling Ginsters pasties? Well Keele services specifically. A favourite stopping place for us after gigs and we were shocked to discover this horror on Sunday. Actually I never partake these days anyway, I usually wait until I arrive home but I would like the option to be available. I didnt call my album Pies, Pasties and rock n Roll for nothing.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>We have just been given a really rather good review for our The Clan 100% Live album this week from SKOPE Radio.</p>
<p><img src="//k007.kiwi6.com/hotlink/42krvm4kb6/TheClan_AD.JPG" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Skope AD" /><a href="http://www.skopemag.com/2013/12/09/the-clan-100-live" target="_blank">Check it out here</a>.</p>
<p>Now if we could just get a few more people to read it? In fact feel free to share this link as widely as possible.</p>
<p>I have been listening to Deep Purple Perfect Strangers Live (Sydney 84) which is the audio of the DVD mentioned earlier. It is pretty much the same set list as when they played Knebworth in 85 which was one of the best gigs I have ever been to, although actually I hate to say it but the Sydney gig is even better.</p>
<p>Child in Time was played which it wasnt at Knebworth and generally the playing throughout is on top form. Blackmore definitely had a good night and when he was on form like that it always made the rest of the band up their game. That was the thing with Purple, the set may have been the same but the delivery was always different. Unfair if you caught them on a bad night I agree but on a good night there arent many who could touch them.</p>
<p>If you see the current line up of course they will probably be consistently good but I doubt they are ever great.</p>
<p>In my opinion this is probably the best Purple Live album since Made in Japan and I have heard quite a few. In fact the inclusion of latter day classics such as Perfect Strangers and Knocking at your back door alongside the expected Smoke, Black Night and Highway star is very refreshing.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Current and recommended listening Deep Purple Perfect Strangers Live Sydney 1984.</span></b></p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/458/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/458/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=458&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/21518952013-12-03T18:27:47+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Ripley, Atherton, Fracking and bad driving<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Ok before I start with the news here is this weeks gig</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 8<sup>th</sup> December</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Nags Head</strong></p>
<p>Ripley</p>
<p>Derbyshire</p>
<p>Afternoon gig approx 5:00pm</p>
<p>Weve only played this venue once before and apart from a good crowd all I can remember is that it is quite compact. That is not a problem of course. I do remember it was a good gig last time however our PA amp died (fortunately) at the end which necessitated an encore of Freebird with the crowd singing prior to the lengthy instrumental part. If I had thought on I could have put the microphone into my powered monitor and used that but such things are always obvious in hindsight.</p>
<p>It wasnt our main amp it was one we had taken to try and reduce the space occupied so no lasting damage done although the amp never recovered. We will no doubt be travelling in a van again even if Jims car is repaired so normal rig will be the order of the day.</p>
<p>We have put out the feelers for a gig this Friday so if one crops up Ill let you know.</p>
<p>Last Friday we played the rather good Jolly Nailor in Atherton. Third time there for us and a third successful show. Good folks, good management and a great set up. We enjoyed it immensely and look forward to returning in 2104.</p>
<p>Ok what else has been happening apart from music? December has arrived of course so Christmas now kicks into top gear. In my house that meant putting up the tree on Saturday. Needless to say there was the issue with the tree lights which involved buying two new sets on Saturday and then returning both on Sunday as the original set from last year were deemed the best. Time well spent (not).</p>
<p>Speaking of tree lights it appears that actual bulbs are now a thing of the past, replaced by LEDs. Nowhere seems to sell anything else now. I am not against progress but I really do not like LEDs for mood lighting. The light is very harsh and cold. Its the same with the LED stage lights.</p>
<p>Once again my old fashioned side has come to the surface; give me a nice warm tungsten filament bulb over LED lights any time.</p>
<p>I am still smarting over having to use those stupid long life bulbs which take an eternity to warm up.</p>
<p>Anyway all done and actually looks quite good, not that any of that is down to me of course.</p>
<p>For me December also brings another year in my life to an end as it is my birthday. Not a major one this year but I am still not too thrilled with the number incrementing again. The best way to look at it is that it is going to happen whether I like it or not so I may as well enjoy it.</p>
<p>No point in being miserable about it. Actually through the wonders of the internet I have already had various emails offering me free bottles of wine if I book meals in restaurants and other such temptations. Unlikely to take them up on it but spontaneity may leap out at the last minute.</p>
<p>Apparently Radio Merseysides Billy Butler mentioned our Christmas song the other day as having everything you want in a Christmas song. Hopefully he will play it a few times. Not exactly Radio 2 but from little acorns. We had better practice it as we have already been asked if we will be playing it at Alexanders on Dec 19<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>I was actually quite surprised when I went to the shops over the weekend as to how quiet they were, I thought they would have been heaving given the end of November pay day but that was not the case. I suspect many people may well be ordering on line? Its funny really, people think its all new but actually its not a lot different to the old mail order catalogues is it. Yes, its easier, and quicker but the principle is the same.</p>
<p>The post office and courier companies must be rubbing their hands together in glee.</p>
<p>I was in a queue in Tesco recently and it happened to be near the toy department. Arent modern toys rubbish? They are all plastic and look as though they will last about 10 minutes. Ironically being plastic of course they will actually last for thousands of years but you know what I mean. Whatever happened to good old die-cast metal toys that last a lifetime? No doubt the health and safety people scuppered all that. At least they had a bit of weight in them and they felt substantial. I dont know why but I always think heavier things are better quality which is probably not true in reality but it is my perception.</p>
<p>I guess at some point I need to start considering Christmas shopping. Fortunately I dont have a lot to do although some cards will need to be purchased and dispatched. Actually the ones to Australia probably need sending this week. I usually leave these too late!</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Ok so what has annoyed me this week?</p>
<p>Well drivers who block major junctions for one. Just because there is not a yellow box on the road it doesnt mean it gives them carte blanch to cause gridlock. Idiots, a bit of common sense can go a long way.</p>
<p>The weather forecasters continue to get it wrong and produce a whole load of excuses when they do.</p>
<p>Protestors complaining about fracking, some alternative must be found they say err ok, Nuclear, Wind power, Tidal barrage oh, they dont like those either. They never seem to actually offer an alternative. Im pretty sure it is more to do with house prices than any environmental or health concern to be honest.</p>
<p>Getting a bit fed up of the same people appearing in succession on all the prime plug shows. I know its all part of the business but it gets a little tedious when they go on every show and tell the same anecdotes in order to plug their Christmas book, film, DVD, tour etc. Speaking of which did we tell you that you can buy our Christmas single from <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858">here</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></p>
<p>Well this week as always its been a mixed bag. Sabbaths 13 album again to ensure I know the tracks when I see them, Chicken Shacks Imagination Lady as mentioned recently and some Slade after reading Don Powells biography. Not a bad read at all actually if you are looking for a Stocking filler.</p>
<p>However my main listening has probably been Judas Priest, specifically Judas Priest Live (the turbo tour album). Probably not as revered as Unleashed in the East which is fair enough but actually it is one fine album. I think it suffered as many of the tracks are live takes of songs from the Turbo album which wasnt well received at the time. In a live environment though the songs are certainly up to standard and rank as being up there with any of the other Priest classics. The album also contains the crowd favourites (Living after Midnight, Breaking the law, Youve got another thing coming) so all in all well worth a listen.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Current Listening Judas Priest Live.</span></p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/451/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/451/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=451&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/21294422013-11-28T19:44:45+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Black Sabbath, Alexanders, Atherton and Electronic drums!<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Ok before I start with the news here is this weeks gig</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 29<sup>th</sup> November</span></p>
<p>The Jolly Nailor (Naylor?)</p>
<p>Atherton</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p></p>
<p>Its another good venue which normally has a good appreciative audience.</p>
<p>We did have one booked in for Saturday in Colwyn Bay but its been rescheduled due to a clash with Hard rock Hell in Pwllheli. Most of the Colwyn Bay Rock contingent will be attending that so rather than play to an empty room it made sense.</p>
<p>So last week we were back at The Hop Pocket in Chorley. It is a really nice friendly pub with a good stage area. It proved to be an interesting night if not exactly for the right reasons.</p>
<p>As always Steve and I arrived about two hours before gig time to start setting up only to receive a call from Jim that he was broken down on the M6 and was unlikely to make the gig. Two options:- pull the gig (which we really hate to do) or carry on setting up and hope we could locate a sit in drummer? Phone calls to our friends in the drumming community proved fruitless as it was already 8:00pm and we were over an hour from home so even if they werent already out playing it was unlikely they would be able to make the gig in time.</p>
<p>Jcquie ,The landlady. gave us the card of an agent (Alan) and we also put a post on Northwest bands.</p>
<p>The outcome was that we received a couple of responses and we ended up with the agent Alan arriving with an electronic drum kit, Drummer to follow. So just after 9:00pm, Nigel Stewart arrived (with an amplifier?) and started configuring the borrowed kit.</p>
<p>To cut a long story short the gig kicked off at 9:50 and we finished at midnight having played two full sets and two encores! Major thanks to Nigel and Alan the agent for saving the day.</p>
<p>Ok, so it wasnt perfect but it was certainly good enough and we still had fun, more importantly though it was still entertaining. Nigel did a good job although we had to stick to covers rather than playing some unfamiliar originals.</p>
<p>First time for me playing alongside an electronic drum kit and Im not sure it is something I would do again given the choice. They certainly dont look as good as a proper acoustic kit which may or may not be important to most people and out front they probably sound ok. I am just used to having cymbals and drums quite close to me though so not having any sound coming from that area of the stage was totally bizarre and not really very satisfying.</p>
<p>Im afraid I am quite old fashioned and I like to feel the noise (as Noddy Holder eloquently stated) when playing. Still, they did the job.</p>
<p>Jims car is still out of action so it will be a van to Atherton this week. Every cloud has a silver lining though as it gives us a chance to try out some bass bins that Steve has had for a while. We dont usually have room to carry them when we use cars.</p>
<p>Black Sabbath tickets arrived this week so excitement mounting. Only three weeks to go.</p>
<p>The day after, 19<sup>th</sup> December, we play our Chester gig at Alexanders. I am told by the venue that they have sold quite a few tickets for that one already so fingers crossed it will sell out. All I can say is if you want to be sure of getting in then buy a ticket in advance.</p>
<p>Ok, apologies to regular readers however in the interests of distributing this before its out of date I am going to leave it here this week, no Rants or Music</p>
<p>Hopefully back to normal next time,</p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p></p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/445/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/445/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=445&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/20928662013-11-21T22:07:18+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Alexander’s Chester, Christmas single, T Shirt idea?<p>So – <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.clan-rock.com" target="_blank">The Clan </a>play <a href="http://craigmacblog.wordpress.com/www.alexanderslive.com" target="_blank">Alexander’s</a> in Chester on Thursday 19th December.</p>
<p>Christmas single “it’s Christmas – Let’s have a good time” available on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858" target="_blank">Itunes </a></p>
<p>How about this for a t-shirt idea? let us know at <a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/t-shirt-21.jpg"><img src="//craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/t-shirt-21.jpg?w=650" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Image" id="i-438" /></a>n</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/436/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/436/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=436&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/20770872013-11-19T19:46:41+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00Live music – The Clan, Sabbath, Slade, Chicken shack – Video killed the Radio star<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> </p>
<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>It’s been quiet for a couple of weeks as I was otherwise engaged on another project and not available. Anyway, normal service resumes – the next Clan gig is: -</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 23<sup>rd</sup> November</span></b></p>
<p><b>Hop Pocket</b></p>
<p>Carr Lane</p>
<p>Chorley</p>
<p>We had a good time last time so let’s hope it will be even better this time.</p>
<p>The most recent gigs we did included a return to one of our favourite venues – the Bath in Morecambe. After trying a couple of other venues in the town we have decided that we will stick exclusively to The Bath as far as Morecambe goes, they have been good to us in the past and we enjoy the place and the people.</p>
<p>We tried out some of the new (to our set) songs and they went down well. I’m sure we will return in 2014.</p>
<p>Speaking of 2014 – we now have a New Year’s Eve gig. We weren’t really expecting one given that it is now November but we are playing the Royal Oak in Blackpool. Not played there before but it sounds like a good rock venue.</p>
<p>It should be a fun night. Probably dig out the bass bins for that one.</p>
<p>We haven’t played in Chester for a while either since both Brooker’s and the Beehive closed down.</p>
<p>We are therefore glad to report that we have a gig at Alexander’s (Rufus Court) on Thursday 19<sup>th</sup> December. A good opportunity to show that Chester Rocks (as opposed to the farcical pop festival they hold under that name in the summer). We know there are many people in Chester who appreciate Good time Feel good rock, just a shame there is nowhere for them to go to get it.</p>
<p>So – Hopefully this will provide a fix. It’s a good excuse for a Christmas rock out.</p>
<p>A ticket event so get ‘em early. Price: – £3.00 in advance, £4.00 on the door. It is a really nice venue actually although it only holds 150 people. Tickets advised.</p>
<p>We have actually had quite a few bookings come in recently; they are all posted on the “live dates” section of our web site. </p>
<p>I see Sweet and Slade are on tour again and I was considering going to see them again. Decided against it though as even though I really enjoyed it last year both bands were effectively doing a greatest hits set and I can’t see it being a lot different. Worth seeing though if you haven’t seen them. I have read Don Powell’s book (Slade Drummer) so it does rekindle the interest. A good read actually.</p>
<p>I have the Sabbath gig to go to in December anyway so that will suffice.</p>
<p>Someone else on tour is the Original Status Quo line up again (the frantic four). As with Slade/Sweet I enjoyed them earlier this year so I don’t think I will be trying to recreate the emotion of the event. </p>
<p>There aren’t many people I have left to see on my wish list really. Obviously as time goes on the chances of seeing some of them are reducing. Possibly Stan Webb (Chicken Shack), been interested in seeing him live since hearing the Imagination Lady LP in the seventies. I just don’t seem to have ever got around to it though. Maybe I should actively seek out a gig.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Sadly it would appear that music is now officially a visual experience rather than audible. Video has indeed killed the radio star. The apparent importance of the YouTube awards has effectively confirmed this.</p>
<p>I still prefer to listen to my music in the car actually and I still get wound up when I ask people if they have heard a song only for them to respond “I saw it on YouTube”</p>
<p>It is amazing how “celebrities” are asked to do things outside their area of skill simply because they are celebrities. Good luck to them I say but the BBC sending Patrick Kielty and Cerys Matthews to report on the country music awards in the USA seems a bit odd to me. Maybe I am wrong and they both have a passion for country music. Hmm?</p>
<p>I recently flew on an airline, that shall remain nameless, but it was one where they charge for coffee/tea etc. Well how inefficient is that? Talk about slowing down the service whilst they mess about with money. Hint- Sit at the front or the back, as that is where they start. If you sit by the wing you will wait a long time.</p>
<p>Surely it would be easier to charge a little bit extra for the ticket and give free coffee/tea. So much easier and quicker to actually do it that way I am sure.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Well we are nearly into the festive season again so an opportunity to plug our annual Yuletide offering. Still think it is a cracker of a song.</p>
<p>Our little bit of Christmas cheer, still available from <a title="itunes" href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858" target="_blank">ITunes</a> and other download sites including our own website of course.</p>
<p>The video shot during the recording is also on <a title="You Tube" href="http://youtu.be/60i9IqEpYq4" target="_blank">YouTube </a>of course for those who need to “hear it” there.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Recommended listening – The Clan – It’s Christmas (let’s have a good time) <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/its-christmas-lets-have-good/id574018858" target="_blank">Buy here</a></span></p>
<p> Until next week</p>
<p> Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<p> </p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/424/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/424/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=424&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/19584032013-10-30T21:44:16+00:002017-01-14T00:19:02+00:00The Bath, Strife, Slade drummer Don Powell and talk of new Clan tracks.<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Well due to a mix up at a venue we were not expecting to be playing this weekend however we had a call yesterday so we are at</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">The Bath</span></strong></p>
<p><b>Northumberland Street</b></p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>Lancs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One of our favourite and regular venues actually so we are looking forward to it.</p>
<p>Last week of course we played the Queens Hotel in Accrington, another one of our favourites if not exactly the largest playing area in the world. It’s a restricted equipment venue for us, reduced lighting rig, smaller speaker stacks but as long as we can fit the drum kit in we can scale down without issue and a good time was had by all. The manager has changed again but Jeff (Geoff) was very friendly and no issues. Hopefully we will return in 2014.</p>
<p>So no doubt the question you all want answering is, did I try out the new Guitar? Well yes I did and it worked very well although as I have said before I am a pretty dyed in the wool Fender Strat player really, albeit a modified one. It’s probably down to over 30 years of familiarity but they just seem to be a more comfortable and ergonomic design to me. Having said that I do believe in using the right tool for the job and some songs do lend themselves more to a Les Paul type of guitar if only for the reason that we are used to seeing the original artist playing them on one. Good examples being Gary Moore, Thin Lizzy and Slash. </p>
<p>Russ (Cottier) has performed his sonic magic on the Craig McDonald tracks I mentioned last week so I will be releasing them in a few weeks as a Craig McDonald EP, not a Clan release. Having said that, I am now wondering if they may be better utilised as bonus tracks as part of the Pledge music fundraising? I will have to think about that one.</p>
<p>In parallel however I have turned my attentions to thinking about some new Clan material. Steve has provided a few good song ideas so the next album may well be a true collaborative effort.</p>
<p>I really must get myself re-motivated to put in the necessary time required to organise this. It is not simply a case of writing the songs. There is a lot more to do, the band learning to play them and work out arrangements, planning and organising the recording session(s), thinking about artwork, release dates, CD pressing, publicity and promo and of course last but not least financing it all.</p>
<p>The experience watching “The Rex” last week has also rekindled my desire to play a T.Rex set although I am not sure Steve and Jim share my enthusiasm. I was wondering if playing our first set as a “celebration” of T.Rex music followed by a second longer set of Classic Rock would be a feasible or perhaps a good/unique selling point. Feel free to reply (<a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a>) and let me know, I’d like to hear your thoughts.</p>
<p>The important thing to keep in mind here is that it would not be a T.Rex Copy (tribute) act, simply us playing the music of T.Rex. Marc Bolan was 29 when he died and only 23/24 in his prime heyday so I’m not stupid enough to think that at my age I could possibly do a good impression. In reality I couldn’t have done one when I was 23/24 either as I look nothing like him, don’t have curly hair and am somewhat taller. The other major thing of course is that personally I would rather be known for being myself anyway! Maybe I just need to sneak a few more Bolan songs into the set. J.</p>
<p>I have unfortunately put a bit of weight back on recently, nothing major, so I really need to nip it in the bud. I worked quite hard to lose what I did so I really don’t want to waste the effort. I know what is required and what works for me so just a case of re-applying myself. I don’t think dark (and potentially cold) nights really help neither does the looming prospect of Christmas. Ah well, can only do what I can and it has to come from me wanting to lose it really, no –one else.</p>
<p>Currently I am awaiting the arrival of the Don Powell (Slade Drummer) biography “Look Wot I Dun”. I am hoping it will be a good read. Apart from being the drummer in one of the most popular bands of the early seventies of course, success which took a long time to achieve, Don has had quite a few other life experiences which he can relate, some that I suspect I am aware of already and probably a few I am not. I am sure like most people there are a few things he would rather not have experienced but you can’t turn back the clock.</p>
<p>As Christmas is on the horizon I probably need to see which other musicians have biographies coming out, they tend to be my preferred reading of choice.</p>
<p> I picked up the annual flyer for the Wirral International Guitar festival the other day. As you know this has been going for quite a few years and every year I complain about the lack of a real bona fide guitar hero. Well this year they are running true to form. All their usual suspects (Esmond Selwyn, John Williams, Glen Tilbrook) are performing and whilst all are undeniably skilled and competent there is no-one I would say representing Rock/Electric guitar. Given that Uli Jon Roth is currently touring I am amazed they haven’t snapped him up for an appearance. Speaking of Uli, he is playing at Hard Rock hell in Pwllheli at the end of November and Bernie Tormé has just been announced on the same bill. Unfortunately tickets for that day are all sold out. I would definitely have gone to that.</p>
<p>It’s bizarre how tickets for festivals etc sell out before people even know who is appearing. I think Glastonbury next year is the same – not that I have any desire to go there.</p>
<p>It’s similar to something else that always amazes me; people who go to see the latest films without even finding out what they are about. I am sure it is just so they can tick it off their “I’ve seen it list”.</p>
<p>Personally I don’t think I have seen a new film for years, really nothing that has interested me to make me want to trek to a cinema. I am waiting for “hangover 3” to be released on DVD but that is the only one I can think of right now. How cultured am I?</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">So what has annoyed me this week?</span></b></p>
<p>Well I know landlords are very busy people and I appreciate they effectively work from when they get out of bed until they get back in it. Not a job I would want to be honest. However some of them seem to think it is an excuse for being ignorant and rude in failing to return replies to phone calls, messages etc. Especially when some of them are places we have played at previously and been well received. I know they are inundated with correspondence from bands etc. who are looking for gigs and I know their core business is selling drinks and food but I am sure setting some time aside to deal with it all once a week would suffice even if just to respond with a “thanks for your interest guys but no thanks”. We can then respect their decision, stop hassling them, it is all above board and we all know where we stand. Possibly they could even make the allocated time public and ask bands to only call them at this time? It is only a thought.</p>
<p>Don’t get me wrong, it is not the fact that we can’t play in their venues that winds me up it’s the fact that they just ignore us. To be honest we have stopped bothering with most of those folks now, they know who they are.</p>
<p>What I will say is that pretty much everywhere we do play is professional, courteous and we get on very well.</p>
<p>One place that is a joy to speak to and definitely has it right is The Railway venue in Bromley X. Jon made it quite clear to us that he didn’t think we were suitable for the venue which is fine (it is his business after all) but because he explained it to us in polite and friendly terms we still have a good relationship with him and remain friends. We don’t hassle him for gigs and one day he may well call us so no problem. It is a pity they aren’t all like that.</p>
<p>Are our weather forecasters really as bad as we think? They seem to get it right for the next 24 hours but anything beyond that always seems a bit hit and miss to me? Are they any more accurate than 50 years ago despite the technological advances?</p>
<p>Why are Motorway matrix signs often incorrect? How difficult is it to delete and add messages to them? I assume it is carried out from a central control room by typing in a message and assigning it to specific signs. The amount of times I am heading home form a gig at 1:00am and it says Queue ahead reduce speed. There is never anything there obviously.</p>
<p>Ah yes early morning driving and our good friend Bob Harris. Normally his show is on Radio 2 on Saturday night Sunday morning so it is a restful listen after a frantic gig. So what happened last Saturday, Here’s Tom Petty says Bob which indeed it was but at the same time Lenny Kravitz was playing “are you going my way”. Hmm, I thought something has gone wrong; Bob will sort it out in a minute. However Tom finished Bob started talking then Lenny finished and Bob started talking. Shock Horror – The show must have been pre-recorded and gone horribly wrong! I listened for a while but after what seemed like ten minutes it was proving to be very irritating so I had to turn off. I put it back on later and there was some generic easy listening radio 2 music and apologies from an unidentified announcer/technician that they were trying to restore the normal show.</p>
<p>I always thought the show was broadcast live as he claims to receive text messages etc. Was this a one off pre-recording that went wrong (possibly caused by the clocks going back an hour). I feel cheated ha-ha Just shows you can’t believe what you see and hear in the media.</p>
<p>Nothing against her personally but given that most people I know find her extremely irritating how has Amanda Holden got to be the celebrity she thinks she is? Perhaps I should buy and read her book to find out – err, perhaps not. She is a prime example of a waxwork really although she does claim to be an actress.</p>
<p> I see they are desperately trying to drum up interest in the Rugby League world cup. Is it working? Not as far as I can tell but I am sure they are interested in St Helens, Wigan, Warrington etc, i.e. places where they play Rugby League. I can’t see anyone else watching unless one of the home nations manages to scrape through to the semi finals or heaven forbid the final. From what I have heard I don’t think this is likely.</p>
<p> <b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music this week?</span></b></p>
<p> Well actually I have been listening to Merseyside 70s band Strife. I have been a fan since the seventies due in part to one of their roadies living over the road from my house and seeing them putting gear in and out of the van. I also saw them play live a few times, very good live band.</p>
<p>They toured relentlessly made a couple of studio albums on the Chrysalis label (Rush & Back to Thunder) then spit up at the end of the decade.</p>
<p> Quite an original sound I think. John Reid the guitarist and main vocalist still lives locally but he long ago gave up the music business and passed the mantle to his son Tony. Check out his band Limehawk, worth a listen in their own right.</p>
<p> A few years ago a Live Strife album was released – recorded in the seventies at the Boat club – Nottingham, it is really rather good. Contains tracks from both studio albums and a couple not on them.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Recommended – Strife – “Rockin’ the boat”</span></p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p><br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/413/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/413/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=413&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/19138542013-10-23T21:36:29+01:002022-02-20T12:46:43+00:00Pies – second helpings – new Guitar, new EP imminent! T.Rex Tribute?<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p> Well this Saturday we are back in a regular venue</p>
<p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 26th October</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>The Queens Hotel</strong></p>
<p><b>Accrington</b></p>
<p>We like playing this one it’s been good to us.</p>
<p> Last week we played locally – The Open Arms in Birkenhead. I’m not sure why we bothered, I doubt most people would have noticed or cared if we had played one chord all night. It can be somewhat depressing and hard work when it’s like that. It all goes to prove that it is the audience that make a gig good or bad. Assuming the band play ok of course which we generally do.</p>
<p>Hopefully this week in Accrington will be a good one, two wasted nights on the run is enough?</p>
<p> I am starting to question why I continue to do this but I know as soon as we do a good gig then I will remember. Fingers crossed.</p>
<p>As I indicated last week I have traded the Marshall JCM8000 combo for a Tokai Les Paul copy. Not actually used it in anger yet, maybe this Saturday. Looks the business though and sounded ok when given a brief twang through the amp. In fact it seems easier to play than I remember my genuine Les Paul was. </p>
<p> I still need to send out copies of the last single to the radio and media. Maybe I will get around to it this week.</p>
<p>Speaking of singles, I have passed some of my earlier solo tracks to Russ (Cottier) to see if he can weave any magic and remaster them to make them suitable for release. I have decided to release them under my own name as an EP. They aren’t really songs that fit into the Clan category so there is no conflict of interest. </p>
<p>I’ll let you know.</p>
<p>I think I have mentioned this before but every now and again I am told I look like other people. Quite a long list actually. Normally it is the same people but every now and again a different one crops up – this week I was told I resembled Ray Romano the U.S. comedian best known in the UK from Everybody loves Raymond. Not for me to say – you decide?</p>
<p>Last Week I mentioned I might pop along to the Swinging Arm on Sunday afternoon to see T.Rex Tribute “The Rex”. Well I duly popped along for the advertised start time of 4:00pm and was confronted by an empty stage. Now I am fully aware that bands rarely start at the advertised time, normally it is a ploy by the venue to make people drink more but for the band not to be there I thought was pretty poor. They drifted in about 4:45 and finally started at 5:30. So rather disappointingly I only had time to see/hear the first four numbers before I had to leave. At this point they certainly weren’t anything special. So I never did find out the set list (which is why I went) or whether they went down well. I just thought it was all a bit amateur and if they want to be a serious Tribute they need to get a lot better and quickly.</p>
<p>Still, who am I am to comment? ** Update: Since writing this I have discovered they have been together since 2004, which I find really hard to believe.</p>
<p>The weather was a bit odd last weekend; it was displayed as 23 degrees in my car on Saturday afternoon. That is not what you expect in October although very welcome. It poured with rain later of course but that’s ok.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>Ok – Corned beef tins. Why are they the only tin that still has a key provided to open it? Apart from the key often breaking or failing to work the opened tin has to be one of the most dangerous things in the kitchen. I am amazed that given health and safety regulations these days they are still allowed. I’m quite partial to a bit of corned beef as well. I would love to hear the logic behind the tins though. The shape is odd as well.</p>
<p>What is it about the magazines in Dentists and Doctors waiting rooms? I only mention this as I had my regular dental check up this week, no problems. For some reason they either assume all their clients have a fascination with used car prices or local county life. To be fair I was pleasantly surprised by the inclusion this week of the Sunday Times Travel magazine but annoyingly I was half way through an article on a rail journey from New Orleans to San Francisco when I was called in. I did consider going back into the waiting room to finish reading it after the appointment but I don’t think anyone is keen on spending more time in the dentists than necessary.</p>
<p>QVC and other similar programs. Just like those magazines that come through the door you find yourself looking and then starting to think to yourself how actually that could be useful and that it is quite a good deal. Before you know it you are on the phone and it doesn’t matter as you can have it on a 30 day trial with a no questions asked money back no obligation basis. Frightening. So if you are in the market for a screwdriver with a built in torch or an emergency USB battery pack you know where to look.</p>
<p>Here’s a thing, ever used a debit card somewhere and had the machine fail part way through the transaction. Well be careful because I was somewhere recently and they tried twice to complete the transaction. I ended up paying cash but it appears that although the transactions were cancelled the money for the transaction still disappears from your account for a few days. It magically reappears after about five days but there is the potential for you to suffer with cash flow issues in the meantime especially if they have tried a few times. So where does it go? Well nowhere really but it is allocated ready to be matched up with the vendors sales receipts which never happens as the vendor voids the transaction. So be aware of this next time they void a sale on your card.</p>
<p>I would imagine it happens on credit cards as well.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></p>
<p>Ok, so what have I been listening to recently? Well it sounds vain; maybe it is, but mainly my own music. Not totally in order to satisfy my own ego I have been searching through old recordings etc to see what I can potentially release, re-record etc. it’s been quite good fun actually.</p>
<p>I have found some hidden gems I had forgotten about, some I can’t even remember recording plus some total rubbish of course.</p>
<p>So who knows? One day “Sinner Raise Hell” may get a digital release, stranger things have happened.</p>
<p>However until then why not put on a copy of “Pies, Pasties and Rock ‘n’ Roll” as I did this week. It’s really not bad at all.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Current Listening – Craig McDonald – Pies, Pasties and Rock n’ Roll. </span> </strong> Still available from Itunes!</p>
<p> Until next week</p>
<p> Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/406/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/406/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=406&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/18851282013-10-19T17:14:18+01:002021-12-15T22:21:15+00:00Open Arms, Clan, T.Rex, Heaven & Hell<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> </p>
<p>Before we continue here is this week’s gig and yes it is another local one!</p>
<p>We have actually had a few of these recently.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Saturday 19th October</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>The Open Arms</strong></p>
<p><b>Birkenhead</b></p>
<p> So last week we were in The Griffin – Earlestown on Friday followed on Saturday by the Waterfront in Anglesey.</p>
<p>The Griffin was good as usual so we are looking forward to returning at the end of December.</p>
<p> Now I am no expert but I do believe that one of the main criteria for running a successful bar is the availability of beer. Unfortunately the Waterfront in Anglesey seemed to be lacking this vital component on Saturday, which compounded by the nearby proximity of annual oyster festival (?) probably didn’t help matters. So it was a rather small crowd and all in all a bit of a long journey for not a lot of fun. When things are not fun there is not much point in doing it so although it is a very nice venue in a nice location with friendly staff and owners I doubt we will be bothering again.</p>
<p>In fact we decided at our recent annual meeting that there are a few venues we are not going to bother with anymore. Better to concentrate on the ones we enjoy where possible, as basically that is the whole point of playing.</p>
<p>We have also decided to offer three different sets although mixing and matching will be possible of course.</p>
<p>Set 1 – The Clan original Set – Our original songs plus some standard Rock covers, probably best suited for support slots to Name or tribute bands.</p>
<p>Set 2 – The Clan play a tribute to the decade that rocked – the 70s. An all cover set with well known classics from a wide range of 70s rock acts – AC/DC to ZZ Top via Thin Lizzy, Pink Floyd, Status Quo, Cheap trick, Bachman Turner Overdrive, Peter Frampton, Eric Clapton etc. Ideal for Rock type venues</p>
<p>Set 3 – Crowd Pleasers – Still mainly rock but in general this set will consist of sing along songs from artists such as Bryan Adams, Queen, Oasis, Stereophonics, Bon Jovi, Rolling Stones, Status Quo etc. Ideal for the middle of the road venues with mixed crowds.</p>
<p>We can only try.</p>
<p>We actually had a rehearsal this week and all went quite well so might try a few new songs at Saturday’s gig.</p>
<p>The only dampener being that I seem to have developed a cold/cough, which is never great when having to sing. Fortunately we only have the one gig this weekend.</p>
<p>Well once again the Marshall Combo didn’t sell on EBay? I was hoping for third time lucky but not to be. Perhaps my best option is to trade it in for something. Probably some form of Gibson Les Paul copy to provide the authentic look to the 70s set. I’m not a huge fan of Gibson Les Pauls really; I had one for years but sold it about five years ago due to the fact that it was just sitting around unused. No regrets. A reasonable quality copy will suffice for now. If I find I do start using it a lot then I may look at getting the real thing again. We’ll see.</p>
<p>We never did get around to promoting the last single properly and recording the September one never happened either. Best laid plans eh? Maybe I just need to mail out the promos for “On the Radio” and see if anything happens. Nothing ventured nothing gained. It only takes one mover/shaker to pick up on it.</p>
<p>My gear videos are still receiving viewings on a regular basis and I receive comments and new subscribers on a daily basis, which is nice. It really is time to produce a new one I think. Hmm, subject matter and content?</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></strong></p>
<p>Now love ‘em or loathe ’em Tribute bands are a popular phenomena and I don’t really have an issue myself. What I do think is a bit out of order is a band who can’t decide who they want to be a tribute to so do two tribute bands in the same gig! Now I can see if you fancy yourself as David Coverdale you may do some Deep Purple/Whitesnake or a Ronnie James Dio singer may do Rainbow/Heaven & Hell/DIo, there is some logic in that. But the most recent example of what I mean is a band who shall remain nameless who do a tribute to Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. Apart from both coming from Birmingham there is no connection between those bands so it doesn’t make sense. The instrumental line-ups are totally different for one thing.</p>
<p>Whatever next, a Tribute band who just play one song each from a range of say 25 bands? J Seriously, I have said this before, if I want something to do a specific job I prefer it to be dedicated to that job – Camera for pictures, Phone for speaking to people, Ipod for listening to music, TV, Computer etc. I don’t want inferior compromised multifunction devices.</p>
<p>Same with tributes; if I want to see a Sabbath Tribute I would go and see Sack Sabbath, for a Judas Priest tribute – watch Judas Beast etc, not some multifunction tribute that flits between incompatible bands.</p>
<p>Ok, whilst I am off on one, it The Swinging Arm in Birkenhead has a T.Rex tribute on this Sunday. As you know Bolan was a huge influence on me and I was recently thinking of doing a T.Rex set myself but decided that in general (and following some research) that most people would only know 20-30 minutes worth of songs at most. So I may pop along to see what songs this band play, what sort of audience they attract (Bolan fans or just general) and how well it is received.</p>
<p>Petrol stations that also want to be shops? I have no problem with this but what really annoys me is having to queue to pay for my petrol behind someone who is purchasing their weekly food order. If petrol stations are going to offer this facility then can’t they have a separate check out?</p>
<p>Halloween – Amazed this week to discover that this is now the third largest event for financial spending behind Christmas and Easter. When I was a kid, a long time ago, at Halloween consisted of a Turnip lantern, duck apple and bob apple. In fact it was pretty much a non-event. Now of course we have been influenced by the Americans and believe we have to copy the way they do it. That is ok but actually we don’t do it properly do we? We end up with some half-baked and half hearted attempts to do it like they do but actually we don’t really know what it is they do. So we have cheap costumes and small children saying trick or treat without knowing why or what to expect.</p>
<p>The thing is – we don’t even need Halloween, we have our historic own festival five days later (Guy Fawkes Night) which everyone understands.</p>
<p>Speaking of Christmas it has started hasn’t it. The shops are stocking up although I have yet to hear the Christmas songs being played. Won’t be long I suspect. November perhaps?</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></strong></p>
<p>As the band is looking at expanding its repertoire I have been listening to a wide range of songs this week, all on a playlist on my Ipod. We could learn them all of course but I can guarantee we will still be asked for another song we don’t know. It happens all the time. It’s nice that people think we are capable of playing anything I suppose. Some of the more off the wall requests we get which they expect the three of us just to be able to knock together at the drop of a hat: -,</p>
<p>Bohemian Rhapsody, Bat out of Hell, anything by the Electric Light Orchestra.</p>
<p>I’m sure we could actually work out versions of these but not on the fly!</p>
<p>Anyway – one Album I did find myself listening to was Black Sabbath’s heaven And Hell. The first album without back in 1979/80 and the first with Ronnie James Dio. If you forget it is supposed to be by Black Sabbath and just listen to it for the music it’s a really good album. I haven’t listened to it for some time and was pleasantly reminded what a great rock album it is.</p>
<p>Current Listening – Black Sabbath – Heaven & hell</p>
<p>Until next week</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/400/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/400/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=400&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/18204832013-10-09T21:09:56+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00Crewe, Earlestown & Anglesey<p>Greetings all, </p>
<p>Hope you all had a good week last week.</p>
<p>Before we continue here is the advert!</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Friday 11<sup>th</sup> October</strong></span></p>
<p>The Griffin</p>
<p>Earlestown</p>
<p> <span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Saturday 12<sup>th</sup> October</strong></span></p>
<p><b>The Waterfront</b></p>
<p>Trearrdur Bay</p>
<p>Anglesey</p>
<p>Right – what has happened over the last couple of weeks?</p>
<p>Well once again the Amplifier didn’t sell on EBay? Quite surprising really as it is a classic Marshall JCM800 1*12 50W combo. Its 30 years old and allegedly much sought after as it is the vertical input 4010 model? Apparently it is not as desirable as it is supposed to be?</p>
<p>We played the gig in Colwyn Bay a couple of weeks ago but it was fairly quiet. Not surprising as it turned out that Mick Ralphs (Bad Company/Mott the Hoople Guitarist) was playing a couple of miles along the coast with his blues band. Let’s face it there are only a limited number of Rock fans to go round along the North Wales coast.</p>
<p>We finally had our band meeting. Very productive it was too. Changes on the way but will take some time to implement so no need to mention them yet. Exciting times ahead for the Clan I think.</p>
<p>Last Saturday we played the Brunswick in Crewe. We had played there twice previously; the first time was good, the second time last time was dire through no fault of our own. To be fair it was probably one of the hottest days of the year, a Friday night and as is the norm these days all the televisions were left turned on. So it was with some trepidation and perhaps indifference we turned up last Saturday. Decided to use their lights and really do a bit of a cut down show, let our music do the talking.</p>
<p>Well needless to say it was a great gig, very enjoyable. Back there again before Christmas.</p>
<p>What else? Actually not very much at all. Still need to sort out my car in the long term but that is dependent upon funding of course. Failure to win the lottery again this week means it may have to wait a little bit longer. Speaking of the lottery I think the increase in ticket prices is just a bit greedy. Well I am not paying the extra; I’ll just keep the same expenditure. I think they have introduced far too many games to be honest; Camelot should have just stuck to the one lotto game and kept it simple.</p>
<p>The nights seem to have started getting darker earlier all of a sudden. I know this happens of course but it does seem really obvious at the moment. Nothing that can be done about it of course. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></p>
<p> I noticed a new Sushi restaurant (bar) in Chester the other day. Obviously I didn’t go in (fish /rice – not really my thing) but I did notice that the food was travelling around the place on a conveyor belt. Why does this seem to only apply to Sushi? A totally unnecessary gimmick if you ask me which no doubt bumps the price up.</p>
<p> There still seem to be too many people driving cars whilst on the phone. There is really no excuse given the low cost of hands free units.</p>
<p>I see Vanessa Feltz, apart from appearing on every publicity seekers show there is, is still taking every opportunity to bleat on about the fact that her husband left her (years ago). Does she not realise that every time she moans about this (not sure how her new bloke feels about it) it makes her look more desperate to have him back? Get over it Vanessa, move on! She is supposed to be a clever woman but if you have ever listened to her radio show or read her newspaper column you have to wonder.</p>
<p>Bank Accounts. Has anyone tried to open or close one recently. At one time it was a case of give us your money and here is your account. Now it seems that they virtually interview you and may some decision as to whether you are a suitable customer. I find this very strange.</p>
<p>It’s a bit like being interviewed to see if you worthy enough to spend your own money on a loaf.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></p>
<p><b> </b>I’ve been listening to a bit of Queen this week but the Queen + Paul Rogers live album actually. Nothing against Freddie Mercury who after all did write an awful of the songs on the album but this album seems to rock a lot more than the original Queen. One suspects that probably if they had sounded like this from the off they would never have become so successful, difficult to know but I love this album.</p>
<p>Paul Rogers has always been one of my favourite rock singers and you can tell that Brian May and Roger Taylor are having a ball here.</p>
<p> Serious Queen fans probably hate it but as a casual Queen listener I think it rocks!</p>
<p> Give it a listen, you might be surprised </p>
<p> Until next week</p>
<p> Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/395/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/395/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=395&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/17189202013-09-26T20:06:40+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00Uli Jon Roth, Kent Duchaine and The Clan<p>Shock horror! No gigs to promote this week (unless one crops up between now and Saturday).</p>
<p>Guess what – one has just cropped up last minute</p>
<p> <b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 28<sup>th</sup> September</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Park Hotel</b></p>
<p>Colwyn Bay</p>
<p> I was going to say it is probably not a bad thing really, a weekend off will allow the batteries to recharge and some thinking to be done.</p>
<p> Last week we were back in Morecambe, not at the Bath as usual but in the West end at the Imperial Hotel.</p>
<p>I had noticed the Bath was having a couple of tribute bands on (Ozzy & Dio) so I was not expecting a large audience in the Imperial to be honest. There are only so many people to go round after all.</p>
<p>Anyway we trekked up the M6 and did our thing as only we can (we played a pretty good set actually) and it was as expected. Mike is trying hard to make a go of this venue but I’m not sure it is going to work.</p>
<p>The last time we were there the “music” being played was club dance music, which doesn’t really encourage rock fans to step in through the door. We did speak to them about this and they wrote in their book that this time we played it would be rock music playing. Well I’m not sure in which world 80’s chart music (ABC, Frankie goes to Hollywood, New Order, Joy Division etc) is classed as rock but certainly not ours. Still, it was an improvement on last time.</p>
<p>Will we play there again? Well there was talk of next year but not sure it is viable.</p>
<p> Never say never.</p>
<p> That left the rest of the weekend free for once which was quite nice.</p>
<p>I had an amp for sale on Ebay that finished on Saturday night at 7:00pm. Always a bit of excitement in the last ten minutes as that is when most people bid. Rather disappointingly no bids at all despite it being a decent starting bid price. It’s back on for another week.</p>
<p>Saturday the weather was ok so after doing a few household tasks it was out for something to eat in Red door. Saturday night we popped round to our local, the Saughall Hotel, to see a “band” called Blue Murder and partake of a few drinks. Well the “band” was actually a duo with backing tracks and not really appropriately named. They started their first set bizarrely with Kenny Loggin’s Footloose and then a song from Evita? It was strange enough to keep you interested, which I suppose is a good thing. The singer had a head mic and was quite theatrical in a “musicals” style of delivery. They were actually quite entertaining in a sort of Holiday camp/Benidorm type of way. A very mixed set with a fair percentage of Queen tunes.</p>
<p>Literally 2 *45 minute sets finishing at 11:15.</p>
<p>All in all though it was a fun evening so can’t knock it.</p>
<p>Sunday was again a nice day so it was breakfast, dog walking then relaxing after a couple of minor jobs on cars (brake light bulb replacements) plus some admin work.</p>
<p>This week of course I went to see Uli Jon Roth in Liverpool (Tuesday) followed by US blues guitarist Kent Duchaine in the Saughall on Wednesday. Both guitarists were amazing although obviously completely different. Crackin’ week really.</p>
<p>I received an email the other day to tell us that our last single “on the Radio” has been added to the playlist on internet radio SKOPE. <a href="http://www.skopemag.com/radio.html">http://www.skopemag.com/radio.html</a> Not too familiar with it myself but hey, not complaining.</p>
<p>Total Biker FM (TBFM) also has us on their playlist as well. <a href="http://www.tbfmonline.co.uk/">www.tbfmonline.co.uk</a></p>
<p>Speaking of this sort of thing I need to progress trying to obtain funding for the New Clan album via Pledge music. Currently I need to produce a short video to encourage people to donate. Basically the idea is you ask people to pay for the recording costs upfront in return for copies of the album (signed probably) when it’s finished plus special extras such as exclusive songs, T shirts etc. Quite a lot of bands do it and it makes sense really.</p>
<p>Marillion are one high profile band that has been doing this for years very successfully.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>So, Costa coffee drive-thru. I haven’t actually tried this but to be honest it takes them so long inside their shops to make a coffee I can’t see this being particularly efficient. How they cope with people ordering hot food I have no idea. Perhaps you can’t?</p>
<p>Speaking of Costa coffee, why are their saucers offset? Just silly really.</p>
<p>Not a lot else to complain about really. Must be chilling out for a change.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Well it was mainly listening to Uli of course ready for his gig. Actually that made me listen to his younger brother Zeno as well, he’s no slouch on the guitar either.</p>
<p>Anything else – well a few thoughts for potential inclusion in our set list. No titles for now in case they don’t happen.</p>
<p>Anyway – I suggest that you set yourself 40 minutes aside, crank up the volume and listen to “The Scorpions – In Trance” album on. A masterclass in rock guitar.</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/390/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/390/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=390&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/16416022013-09-17T20:20:36+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00Imperial, Bolan and Witton<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Time waits for no man.</p>
<p>How true is that? </p>
<p>We’ll see where it went recently after I tell you where it is going this week.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 20<sup>th</sup> September</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Imperial Hotel</b></p>
<p>Regent Road</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>Right that is the important stuff. They say you should never look back but if I don’t then I will not have anything to say?</p>
<p>Not a lot happened for most of the week really, I did consider going to the reinstated Jam night at the Swinging Arm (Tuesday) but I was waylaid so that didn’t happen. Maybe this week although a more pressing appointment is our band meeting.</p>
<p>The broken car issue has been sorted temporarily but still remains as a problem. No impact currently but it will need to be addressed. I’m wondering if a small van might be the logical way to go.</p>
<p>Last Friday saw us at the Grange in Moreton. A local gig for us – seem to be doing a few of these at the moment. It’s actually quite a large pub so no problem with space. First time at this venue and being a mixed audience I thought we’d play a little bit safe with the more pop/rock set than the hard rock set. It’s always a difficult call though, you want to give people a good time but still enjoy what you do yourself although trying to second-guess what they might like is a dark art. If you have a large repertoire then you can’t play them all so decisions do have to be made. Anyway – we ended up doing pretty much our “usual” set and it went really well. Hopeful of a return appearance.</p>
<p>Saturday we were back in the Witton Chimes in Northwich. We actually love to play there and have had quite a few decent nights there. Good to meet up with some friends there as well. The gig went really well, new Manager Adam is running an excellent ship and the bar staff and audience were fantastic. If only more pubs were like this. There was full support for live music from everyone there. Only minor grip was a horrendous reverb on the PA for which we couldn’t locate the cause. We were feeding our Mixer into theirs but I am pretty sure it wasn’t our system as we never normally get the issue. I suspect some reverb was being applied to their in house mixer although they said it wasn’t. No major harm done, we will be back</p>
<p> That reminds me, still not made any moves to meeting up with another group of friends locally as I mentioned last week. It’s that thing called time again.</p>
<p>Friday this week sees us heading back to Morecambe. We seem to be quite popular there although bizarrely the nearby town of Lancaster seems to ignore us, especially the main venue there “The Pub”. Maybe there is one of those “other side of the river” things going on of which we are not aware? J</p>
<p>Anyway – Morecambe this Friday, the Imperial Hotel. A large venue at the other end of town to our usual gig (The Bath). </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Not so much a rant more of an observation. I was listening to the radio recently and Katy Perry’s latest track came on. A pleasant and catchy enough song but I had no idea who it was. It could be age but basically all the girl singers sound the same to me and I think I know why. I believe it is because all the music is done backroom by faceless session musicians so it all sounds the same! For all I know they could even be the same musicians on all the recordings. Gone it seems are the days when the sound of a recording was very much the sound of the people playing in their own specific styles with their own sound. Now it is basically backing track by formula/numbers then get the singer to add the vocals over the top. Even the vocals are probably all processed in the same way regardless of the singer. So yes – catchy enough but all interchangeable to my ears.</p>
<p>Rap is something else I don’t get. I don’t think anyone would argue that the melody, if we can call it that, in all rap songs is basically the same. So what is it that people like about it? The backing music or the lyrics? Neither works for me.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Well I have to mention that it’s been 36 years since Marc Bolan was killed in a car crash (he wasn’t driving). So as he was basically the reason I picked up a guitar I had to listen to some of his recordings.</p>
<p>For most people including myself this would normally be Electric Warrior, the Slider or Tanx but this week I went back to Beard of Stars. The last Tyrannosaurus rex Album but probably the first appearance of electric instruments for Bolan. Debatable if such an album would ever be recorded these days but I like the mix of quirky acoustic numbers alongside the likes of Light of a magical moon and the guitar workout of Elemental Child.</p>
<p>Great stuff and no-one wrote lyrics like Marc Bolan (haha).</p>
<p>Recommended – Electric Warrior or The Slider</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/382/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/382/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=382&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/15878502013-09-10T20:26:37+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00From 1 to 2, Sacred Heart, Trains and Uli Jon Roth<p> </p>
<p> Remember to check out <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Another week gone,</p>
<p> Two gigs this week</p>
<p><strong>Friday 13<sup>th</sup> September</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Grange</strong></p>
<p>Moreton</p>
<p>Wirral</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> September</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Witton Chimes</strong></p>
<p>Northwich</p>
<p>Cheshire</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Once again let’s a have a quick look back at last week.</p>
<p>Not too much to report really. We were going to have a band meeting last Tuesday but for personal reasons I was unable to make that. I was hoping we could reschedule it for this week as we do need one but it appears it’s not likely. It is important that we get together to discuss and review our objectives; availability, musical direction etc every now and again as people and circumstances can change so we should never assume that we are all happy just as we are. It needs be checked.</p>
<p>I guess I am feeling a bit fed up of the whole music scene at the moment, it happens from time to time, it’s nothing new. Just one of those points where you feel that chasing gigs in some venues is a complete waste of time as for reasons best known to themselves they are never going to book us. It is annoying when you have actually played there before and been well received by the people there. It’s even more annoying when you have filled in at the last minute for a cancellation, played a good gig and can’t get a rebooking.</p>
<p>Like I say I am sure it will pass.</p>
<p>If it doesn’t then maybe I will concentrate on just recording my own music every now and again for fun or perhaps start writing band reviews. At least I would get home at a decent time and not have to hump loads of heavy gear around. I do like playing live though and I think the Clan are probably the best band I have ever been in so it would be a shame to stop.</p>
<p>So what else – well some car trouble hasn’t helped, still needs to be sorted out satisfactorily but it is causing a minor inconvenience.</p>
<p>We only had the one gig last week, probably could have got one on Saturday as there were a few leads but to be honest until we sort out a few things with the band I wasn’t prepared to follow them up and the others never mentioned them.</p>
<p>Having said that the one gig we did have was a good one as it usually is at the Clwyd. Clashed with the England Football of course so we suspected that would delay the start time. I never used to mind the odd football match but now that it seems to be on every night of the week it is becoming a bit of a pain. I do wish pubs would decide if they want live music or sport on TV. In my experience the two rarely have anything in common. As expected the minute the final whistle was blown a large section of the audience upped and went to be replaced by a new set of people who had come for the music. Basically it proved my theory that in general sports and music fans are not generally the same people.</p>
<p>Still we turned up and did our thing including some tracks we haven’t played there before. Good to see some regular fans, a pity we don’t get more of them at local gigs. I couldn’t really hear my guitar all night but apparently everyone else could so you just have to go with the flow. I think sometimes it just depends on where the speaker is positioned in relation to where I am standing.</p>
<p>Speaking of local gigs, amazingly we have another one this Friday, the Grange in Moreton. I played there a couple of times in my solo years and it was ok although it’s more of a local that puts on music as opposed to a music venue. Still, sometimes these nights turn out better than the so-called music venues anyway. Saturday has us back at the Witton Chimes in Northwich which is a normally a good one. I’ve lost count of the amount of managers it has had over the last few years but at least it is still open and putting live music on.</p>
<p>I am still receiving regular comments from my amplifier comparison videos. Most are ok but there are a few small minded people out here who feel the need to insult or write abuse. Obviously they are hiding being anonymous nicknames. It doesn’t bother me, you put something on the Internet you are wide open to responses from all sorts of strange people. All I have tried to do is provide some useful information in an interesting and entertaining way plus a bit of publicity for the band as well. Check them out – <a href="http://youtu.be/JqqwnqD2J7c">http://youtu.be/JqqwnqD2J7c</a> or <a href="http://youtu.be/cNEKZGbmtSI">http://youtu.be/cNEKZGbmtSI</a> </p>
<p>Last Saturday we ended up in one of our favourite bars, Red Door – West Kirby, a bit later than usual so it was a bit busier. Think I prefer it early doors actually but it was interesting to do a bit of people watching.</p>
<p>Sunday I was in Scogs for breakfast as is often the case then that was followed by taking the dog around the park. It was all pretty relaxing to be honest which is surely what Sundays are for.</p>
<p>On Saturday morning I had reason to take a train journey (due to car trouble) and actually it was quite an enjoyable experience. You do see different things from a train ranging from the backs of factories, back gardens (a wide range of sights there) and some nice rural scenes and views. I am not sure I would want to make too much of a habit out of it but it certainly wasn’t a hardship. Almost ran on time as well. I wonder if a long journey such as the Orient Express would be fun or become tedious? Maybe one day I will find out?</p>
<p>Speaking of trains I see the HS2 rail link is back in the news. Personally I wonder if it is required. If it knocks 30 minutes off the travel time between Manchester and London is that money well spent? Is half an hour off a two and a half hour train journey really that crucial?</p>
<p>Well the weather has certainly got colder making a liar out of me; I have been telling people that September is usually quite nice. Still, there is over half of it remaining to prove me right.</p>
<p>I really don’t know where this year has gone, they are right time does go faster as you get older.</p>
<p>I think I need to catch up with a few friends soon, haven’t had much chance with the band being so busy and obviously they are busy as well. I really need to make some effort but the more people you try to co-ordinate the more difficult it becomes. I can only try I guess.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Having travelled on a few trains recently I am somewhat taken aback by the fact that it appears no-one can sit on a train now without tapping things out on their mobile phones. Even in Tunnels where there is no signal. I suppose it has taken the place of reading books or papers. I felt the odd one out just sitting there listening to my IPod. Yes an IPod, apparently even these are out of date now as I should be listening to music on my phone? Why. The iPod is designed to play music.</p>
<p>This brings me on to two new gadgets. A phone that has a zoom lens. Why?</p>
<p>A Smart watch (which still needs a phone to communicate)- Again, why?</p>
<p>No doubt they will be commonplace soon or will they? It is possible for such things to fail, just ask Clive Sinclair. Success will be all in the marketing I expect.</p>
<p>Ok no more or we’ll never get this done.</p>
<p> <b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p> Well this week I decided to have another listen to some guys we met at Cambridge Rock festival back in 2011 – Sacred Heart. I’ve had their Darkness falls album for some time and I love it so I decided to purchase their last album, Propaganda. More of the same really although not as immediately catchy. It’s growing on me though. Good stuff.</p>
<p>The other thing I enjoyed was a bootleg of the Scorpions live in Bolton 1977. Recorded during the Virgin Killer tour and it has a certain Uli Jon Roth stamping his incredible guitar work all over it. Let’s hope he can do the same in Liverpool a couple of weeks from now.</p>
<p>On the whole though I would recommend checking out Sacred Heart – good melodic Rock.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/372/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/372/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=372&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/15210222013-09-02T19:40:20+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00Three down – Time for a short break<p> Well here we are again,</p>
<p>If I am not careful this will become a regular thing again.</p>
<p>So as always here is what many of you want to know</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 6<sup>th</sup> September</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Clwyd</b></p>
<p>Shotton</p>
<p>N. Wales </p>
<p>Ok so that is out of the way – let’s a have a quick look back at last week. </p>
<p>As we said last week August was busy so we are slowing things down a bit this month. I think as a band we need to review where we are, where we want to go, etc. I was always a great believer in the more you play the better it is as more people see and hear you but I’m not sure that holds true these days.</p>
<p>Post a video up on Youtube and the potential audience is far greater than in the local boozer. As for playing original music, well people seem to want what they know in most venues (be it tributes or covers) so maybe that isn’t the right outlet for new material? Putting it out as an accompaniment to an amusing cat/dog video is probably more likely to grab people’s attention. Especially as people seem unable to listen to a song these days unless it is accompanied by some visual. </p>
<p>Speaking of venues, the amount of times we are told “oh that’s a great gig” or “they’ll love you in there” and it just turns out not to be the case. Yes we are fortunate in that we always seem to be appreciated by our audiences but sometimes they are not that large even in the so-called music venues. I don’t think it is a problem specific to us but at times it is a bit discouraging when you have been building up a gig in your mind and looking forward to it. It just seems to be that these days people don’t go out as much anyway and certainly don’t have the same drive to go and watch bands as we did we did when were younger. Personally I think it is down to the tightening up on access to pubs for younger people, the smoking ban and the range of other entertainment available (Computer games, Social media, downloading films) etc. I think it is fair to say that as people get a bit older then they have less time (or enthusiasm) for going out) as well. If only I had the answer. </p>
<p>So although it all sounds like doom and gloom, it’s not. Our bookings are relatively healthy and starting to come in now for 2014. </p>
<p>Last Thursday we played the Raven in Crewe for the second time, a larger crowd than the first time and it is a nice pub. We might take some extra lights next time, as it did seem very dark when we were playing. Possibly back there in January. </p>
<p>Friday was another return – The Mechanics in Queensferry. Again, a larger turnout than our debut there. </p>
<p>Saturday saw us paying another Birkenhead venue for the first time – The Open Arms. Formerly called “The Avenue” in Claughton. We were actually contacted to play this one, which makes a change. Went quite well apart from the requesting of Bohemian Rhapsody as the encore. That was never going to happen was it?</p>
<p>What else has been happening then? Syria and the situation in the Middle East is still all a bit worrying although it has never seemed to be the most stable part of the world throughout my lifetime.</p>
<p>Not much we, the people in the street, can do about it really.</p>
<p>In fact the news is all quite depressing and repetitive; I sometimes wonder if it is best avoided all week and then perhaps have a weekly catch up on a Sunday morning or evening. I doubt my life would be affected too much. Speaking of which I think the TV is perhaps best avoided anyway, we appear to be running into the Autumn Season of pointless voting shows again, celebrity or otherwise. It’s all a bit formulaic and predictable.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b> </p>
<p>Cooking on TV is becoming far too frequent. I am somewhat sick to the back teeth of watching people cook food. Yes some of the chefs have some good ideas but it is only food not surgery. You eat it and then an hour later it’s forgotten. Get over it. </p>
<p>I heard this week that two more 4G phone networks are coming online so you will get faster service. Obviously this is nothing to do with actually making phone calls. I presume they mean your computers will be able to send their trivial Facebook messages and tweets a few seconds faster which is obviously essential and well worth the phenomenal cost of implementation I am sure.</p>
<p>The obsolescence within the technology industries is quite staggering. It is not that long ago when 3G was the thing to have. </p>
<p>What’s the obsession with the football transfer window, I really don’t remember this being covered as widely before. Personally I really don’t care. It’s a business same as thousands of others. </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Not had a lot of chance to listen to much this week. No new music to report on. So the usual favourites have been on my Ipod.</p>
<p>What can I recommend?</p>
<p>Well – Gary Moore was played a bit longer than the others. A great guitarist who could play in virtually any style. Not only that but a good songwriter a well, listen to empty rooms or murder in the skies.</p>
<p>There are many compilations one that is good is <b>Out in the fields.</b> </p>
<p>Until next time,</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/366/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/366/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=366&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/14935742013-08-28T19:45:03+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00And that was August<p>Hello hello, </p>
<p>So without further ado here are this week’s Clan gigs. (More gigs & info at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a>) </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Thursday 29<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Raven Live lounge</b></p>
<p>Crewe</p>
<p>(Lynne the landlady’s birthday)</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 30<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Mechanics Arms</b></p>
<p>Queensferry</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 31<sup>st</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Open Arms</b></p>
<p>Birkenhead</p>
<p>Last week we had a surprisingly good gig in the Station hotel – Ellesmere Port and then on Sunday we returned to the Swinging Arm for the first time in over 12 months. An afternoon gig on a sunny Sunday – bank holiday weekend. It went really successfully so thanks to everyone who came along to show their support. Hopefully enough for us to be rebooked.</p>
<p>It’s been a busy August so we are slackening off a bit in September. I think we need to review our gig anywhere anytime strategy is it working? I love to play but sometimes I wonder if it may do us more harm than good. Don’t get me wrong we always receive good comments from the people at the gigs but perhaps we should concentrate on venues where people go specifically to listen to live music. Questions, questions.</p>
<p>We have been so busy that the recording of the new single is already delayed.</p>
<p>Anyway – time is not even waiting for this blog to be written. So guess I will leave it here for now. </p>
<p>Apologies no more info this week.</p>
<p> Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<p> <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/360/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/360/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=360&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/14295682013-08-20T20:04:33+01:002017-01-14T00:19:01+00:00We need your support to keep our music Live!<p>Another week another Blog</p>
<p>Yes I have managed to find some time, a rare commodity these days.</p>
<p>Ok as always – here are this week’s gig Dates.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 24<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Station </b></p>
<p>Ellesmere Port</p>
<p>10:30pm.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 25<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Swinging Arm</b></p>
<p>Birkenhead</p>
<p>** NOTE – 4:00pm – 6:00pm</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Last Friday we played “Whittles Rock Pub” in Oldham, perhaps we were looking forward to it too much after last time we were there? All I will say is that it was disappointing. It left a bad taste in our mouths really so we needed a good gig on Saturday to remind us why we do this. Fortunately the Bath in Morecambe washed away our blues.</p>
<p>It just proves how important the audience are, they make the difference between gigs where you wonder why you bothered to one where you really don’t want to stop playing as the adrenaline is in full flow. Proves the old adage, you can’t win ‘em all.</p>
<p> Whilst I am on the subject I had it spelt out to me in black and white today whilst trying to get a booking. “You’re a great band guys and you put on a great show, everyone present here last time loved it but there just weren’t enough present”. Nothing I don’t already know of course, it’s all about bums on seats (or money over the bar) and if we can’t get the audiences we won’t get the gigs. Unfortunately we are not 18 anymore with a huge posse of curious school friends so realistically people are not going to follow us around. All we can hope for is building up decent sized followings in all the places we do play but it does seem to be getting harder. Anyway, we will carry on as we love it, who knows one of our songs may be picked up and everything will change – ever the optimist.</p>
<p> This Saturday we play a regular gig at the station in Ellesmere Port who to be fair have been pretty good to us over the years. Not far from home either.</p>
<p>Sunday we do play a Home gig at the Swinging Arm in Birkenhead, an afternoon session (4pm). It would be great to see the place packed although if it’s sunny as predicted I can’t see people wanting to be inside, bank holiday Sunday as well, could be a blessing or a curse, never easy to know which way it’s going to go. Not that we have any control over these things of course. We’ll turn up and do our thing.</p>
<p> Well the Football season has started again (did it ever finish?). I appreciate that a lot of people enjoy the game but it does seem to be on far more than necessary. For us it simply means that more gigs will have to be worked around matches and more annoyingly that many pubs will leave TVs on whilst we are playing.</p>
<p>I mentioned last week about the back light on my car going off, well since then I have had a headlamp and a side light fail. Cars eh? Actually the rear bulb was fine, I just took it out and put it back in again and it has worked fine ever since? As for the front ones, you need the hands the size of a child with the strength of a gladiator to fit them. Not the most accessible lamps to replace. </p>
<p>I was hoping to do some jobs around the house over the weekend as well but they just never happened. I must pull my finger out and catch up this week, probably won’t take that long once I get started.</p>
<p>Anything else? Not really. Still need to lose a bit of weight, not a vast amount but one has to be careful if it starts creeping back up or before you know it all the good work is wiped out. I have a pretty reasonable regime that I normally stick to although sometimes you have to give yourself a treat. How people stick to those diet drink things I don’t know although I suspect once they lose the weight they go straight back to “normal” eating which is probably not the way to do it. Still, horses for courses and whatever works for you.</p>
<p>The way I see it everyone requires a certain amount of calories per day that will keep their weight level. If you want to lose weight you can either take in less calories or you can try to burn off any excess over your daily requirement via exercise. Personally I go for the take less in option. Not a big fan of gyms and the like. Having said that, playing in the band does provide a fair amount of exercise but I know that it takes an awful lot of effort to burn off relatively few calories. So it’s easier not to have ‘em in the first place.</p>
<p> No rants this week, not had time to work any up.</p>
<p> <b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p><b> </b>A good friend of the band, Graham, recently pointed me in the direction of some bands I have never heard before so I have finally got around to listening to them.</p>
<p> Pretty Maids – not a great name but quite listenable, reminded me of Gary Bardens “Silver” project.</p>
<p>Pure Love – ok but probably won’t be spinning that one again too soon, singer voice sounds a bit like Morrissey at times and that is not good to my ears.</p>
<p>Volbeat – Not bad, varies between Hard rock and pop. </p>
<p>Shinedown – I have actually heard of these but never actually listened to them before, pretty good stuff.</p>
<p>Having said that I ended up listening to an old favourite, Bernie Tormé. One of his lesser known albums, Demolition Ball. I think it’s a great album but I know (because he told me) that Bernie wasn’t too happy with the production or the vocals. Some great tunes on it though and Bernie performs all his usual guitar gymnastics.</p>
<p>So hopefully see you all somewhere at a gig soon, we need your support to keep this thing going,</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig – The Clan </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/346/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/346/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=346&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/14139342013-08-15T20:38:21+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00Brilliant last weekend, let’s do it again<p>Hi folks,</p>
<p>Well where are we at?</p>
<p>Before we start looking let’s give you the important info:-</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 16<sup>th</sup> August</span></strong></p>
<p><b>Whittles Rock Pub</b></p>
<p>Oldham</p>
<p> <b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 17<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Bath</b></p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p>Ok now that is covered I’ll just give you a heads up on something special next weekend.</p>
<p>Basically we are playing our first gig for over 12 months in <b>The Swinging Arm</b> – <b>Birkenhead</b> on Sunday 25<sup>th</sup> August. It’s the bank holiday weekend and as far as I know we are playing between 4pm-6pm.</p>
<p>This is their normal time for bands on a Sunday, if they decide to change it because of the bank holiday I’ll let you know.</p>
<p>It would be great to pack the place out for our return so if you could manage to get there for a couple of hours we’d really appreciate it. We don’t play locally that often as you know so we just want to deliver our Good time Feel good Rock to an enthusiastic home crowd.</p>
<p>In addition it’s a good chance for us to catch up with many of you and actually have time for a chat as for once we won’t be facing a long drive home without the possibility of bed before 2:00am!</p>
<p>As an incentive you can listen and download (free) our “Rockin’ the Arm” EP which was recorded at that very venue back in 2010. <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/download">www.clan-rock.com/download</a>. The new single “on the Radio” is also available there.</p>
<p>Last weekend we had two gigs. The Ridger on the Friday went reasonably well but fair to say it’s not the ideal venue for a rock band. Generally it has an after work early drinking crowd then the evening family diners. So by the time 9:30 comes around most of those people have gone.</p>
<p>Having said that the people who remained stayed and we heard nothing but good comments afterwards. Indications from the management are that we will return in the New Year.</p>
<p>Saturday was one we were really looking forward to, probably our favourite venue to play. The Greyhound in Beeston (Notts). They are totally geared up for music (Stage, In house PA, Sound engineer, Lights) we could do with playing a few more of these. The usual sound guy Adrien was not there due him attending the Bloodstock festival however Rob was a more than capable stand in and when I stood out front at the sound check it sounded great to me. Rob also took some rather good photos with his photographer’s hat on, a true multi-tasking guy. Check them out – <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412187068885544.1073741877.121350701302517&type=1">The Clan – 10/08/13</a>. Nice little write up as well.</p>
<p>Unfortunately Will is no longer behind the bar but Paul the boss is still there so it was good to say hello to him again. I would hope from the crowd reaction we will get booked again sometime next year.</p>
<p>Tomorrow night’s gig (Friday 16<sup>th</sup>) at Whittles is a similar set-up (Stage/PA, Sound engineer) so hopefully another cracker. Saturday we return to another favourite – The Bath in Morecambe. Had a few good nights in there and at least this time we have three different numbers in the set.</p>
<p>Other things – I had a tree removed from the garden last week, glad I decided not to do it myself. It is amazing how much debris they produce so a t least the guy doing it had all the right tools and disposal equipment, some of which was pretty heavy duty (Chippers, flat back truck, Root grinder). Still took them quite a while though. I’d still be doing it now.</p>
<p>The microwave packed up on Tuesday so that was another expense. I suppose they are actually relatively cheap but it just came on the back of the tree, MOT, road tax shock absorbers etc.</p>
<p>As I am sure you all know, there is always something to take your money just as you think you might be managing to save some?</p>
<p>Cars are notorious for it. Mine passed its MOT but already a back light bulb has blown as pointed out to me by a friendly police officer who pulled me over the other day. I have a VW and it does seem to go through back light bulbs quite frequently. I have had a few of them actually and they all seemed to suffer this problem.</p>
<p>I was hoping to progress the PR for the “on the Radio” single last week but it just never happened. I’m wondering if it is worthwhile given the next one is due out early October. Hopefully we will be recording it during September.</p>
<p>The idea was also to record an album this year which will include the singles but finances will determine that one. I am looking at Pledge Music as a possible option.</p>
<p>Cambridge rock festival came and went and by all accounts it was very successful. Already there are bands vying for next year’s line up. We’d like to be one of them of course but I think it’s a bit early to be giving the organisers hassle.</p>
<p>I managed to sort out some of my equipment boxes this week; it is amazing how much you end up carrying around as cables and “stuff” accumulate. The majority never used and after a while you aren’t even aware of them being in the boxes. It is good to have some spare cables but do I really need 20 mains leads? I generally need 4 plus a couple of spares but other than those spare fuses are probably all that is needed and a lot lighter to carry.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p> As you know I am a pretty easy going person so I don’t really get too worked up about things. I am however also a grumpy old man so there are certain things I do find irritating, probably without just cause.</p>
<p>People who keep sending me invitations to play games on Facebook for one. A long time ago I used to repair Computers and as far as I could tell all anyone was using them for was playing games. I had no interest in computer games then and I am still not interested. I wouldn’t mind but apart from improvements in the graphics the concepts all seem to be the same. Big business I know but it’s not for me.</p>
<p>High prices for everything in Motorway service stations? These are totally unnecessary given the volume of trade. I’m sure they would quote high rents as the reason but I’d like to see the balance sheets.</p>
<p>Getting somewhat annoyed with receiving phone calls relating to accidents I haven’t had. Should be illegal, it probably is.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Well I am off to see Uli Jon Roth in September as he is playing in Liverpool, A Scorpions set I hope. So I have been listening to the classic Scorpion’s albums upon which he played. I do wonder if most of the people going will be expecting later incarnation Scorpions tunes such as Wind of Change / Rock you like a Hurricane and Big city nights. When Uli left the Scorps they had much greater success and really sound like a different band.</p>
<p>He is playing with Diamond Head, not sure who is on first. Diamond Head go back as far as I do to the NWOBHM days and actually I don’t know too muc about them. I know Metallica covered one of their songs which probabaly didn’t do them any harm so I’ve downloaded their best of album. Only listened to a couple of tracks so far but they’re ok.</p>
<p>Should be a good night. Just hope Uli has a singer with him as his vocals are not great. The chances of him using a Strat are slim as well, he use his own Sky guitars pretty exclusivley these days. </p>
<p> Anyway – check out The Scorpions – In Trance if you want to get a flavour of his style.</p>
<p> Until next week,</p>
<p> Keep rocking’ and here’s to a great weekend.</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/339/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/339/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=339&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/13617882013-07-31T12:23:28+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00New gig review – New Single and More<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well another week and another brace of enjoyable gigs completed. More of that later but as many of you only want this week’s gig list here it is </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 3<sup>rd</sup> August </span></b></p>
<p>The Springfield</p>
<p>Coppull</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 4<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p>The Toll Point</p>
<p>Denton Manchester 7:00pm.</p>
<p> We may still get a booking for Friday but if we do I’ll let you know.</p>
<p> So, last week we thought we only had the one Saturday gig but we managed to be offered a cancellation for the Friday night, The Imperial Hotel in Morecambe. Obviously being a cancellation it wasn’t packed out as the original band was a different style but we did see quite a few of our Morecambe friends and it all has the makings of being a good venue. We return in September.</p>
<p> Saturday night was one I had been looking forward to for some time. The Hop Pocket in Chorley is well known for its Thursday Rock & Blues nights although to be fair Saturdays are not currently as popular. Still, it’s a great venue and as far as we could tell the people that were there had a good night. We were rebooked and return in November. Let’s see if we can get more people there next time. It turned out that an independent reviewer called Keith Blackledge who often has reviews in the the Chorley Guardian was there but whether the review makes it to the paper I can’t say at this point. Well so far it hasn’t but it’s on our website at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_reviews.cfm">http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_reviews.cfm</a> if you want to have a look.</p>
<p> What else? Well I seem to have got over my bout of the blues and I am looking forward to a busy August. We have eleven gigs booked which isn’t too bad at all. If we do get booked this Friday then that will make it twelve.</p>
<p>The Single “On the Radio” finally appeared on iTunes and Amazon after a bit of chasing. You can find it at <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/on-the-radio-single/id678384006">Itunes</a> at <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/search/ref=sr_kk_2?rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3Athe+clan+on+the+radio&keywords=the+clan+on+the+radio&ie=UTF8&qid=1375261861">Amazon</a>. The promo for this has been slightly delayed but it will pick up a pace now. </p>
<p>This week sees the start of the Cambridge Rock festival, Dear to our hearts as we played both the Springfest and the main summer festival in 2011. We are not playing there this year but it’s a great festival, not too large and very friendly. We have been told we will play there again so fingers crossed for next year. Hope anyone going has a great time.</p>
<p>It’s a funny world really in respect to venues, some love us some don’t want to know? We know we can’t win ‘em all and overall we don’t do too badly. All we know is that 99% of the time we are well received and the other times it is generally because we are the wrong type of band for the venue.</p>
<p>As we always say we just deliver “Good time Feel good rock” to try and give everyone a good night out including ourselves.Ultimately the best nights are created by the audience. Given we normally play a similar set it is surprising how the audiences vary and can make the difference between a difficult gig and a brilliant gig. </p>
<p>From our point of view a smaller appreciative audience makes for a much better night than a large number of indifferent people</p>
<p>As we know a lot of it is down to perception as well, If people are told that someone is worth seeing they will often believe it.</p>
<p>Marketing and PR is very important as you can be the best band in the world but if no-one has heard of you? We are often told by people “oh you should play there” or “why don’t you play there, they’d love you” but sadly it doesn’t work like that.</p>
<p>In general we have already been in touch with the places they mention but unless they hear from other people that we are worth booking it won’t happen. So come on all you Tweeters and Facebookers spread the word. Share the Clan Page, links to the website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> etc. Tell the venues! </p>
<p>I’m still surprised at the amount of comments I receive from people viewing my “gear” videos on Youtube. Up to approx 30,000 now. Generally they are appreciative and constructive although obviously once you put anything on the internet you are open to a few insults and negative comments. I don’t get many but the only way to respond is to ignore them or delete them. Entering into dialogue with such people is pointless.</p>
<p> I’m not sure what the enjoyment is in insulting someone anonymously? Nothing better to do I guess. Strange people. </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;"> </span></b></p>
<p>Hmm, well nothing major to get annoyed about. I mentioned on FB the other day about people crowding around luggage carousels at the airport. If they just stood back it would all be much easier and far more efficient.</p>
<p>Speaking of flying, is it really necessary to check your passport so many times between passing through to airside and finally sitting in your designated seat. I’m not sure where they think you are going to go between the gate entrance and the end of the air bridge? </p>
<p>It’s summer so the roadworks appear to be on the increase? I don’t suppose there is ever a good time really. </p>
<p>We had a Sunday afternoon gig recently and with it being holiday season I really noticed so many examples of “the Sunday driver”. I’m thinking of writing a song about them.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b> </p>
<p>Difficult one this week, all quite non specific, been flitting all over the place. Planet rock radio is boring me and Radio 2 isn’t great. So it’s been the Ipod most of the time. Quite enjoyed Fleetwood Mac – various albums and also Tom Petty which works really well in the hot weather. Gin Blossoms still sound good. </p>
<p>So, recommended this week? Well Black Sabbath 13 is still sounding good. Probably the best release of the year so far. </p>
<p>So until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/332/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/332/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=332&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/12998112013-07-31T07:23:28+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00New gig review – New Single and More<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well another week and another brace of enjoyable gigs completed. More of that later but as many of you only want this week’s gig list here it is </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 3<sup>rd</sup> August </span></b></p>
<p>The Springfield</p>
<p>Coppull</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 4<sup>th</sup> August</span></b></p>
<p>The Toll Point</p>
<p>Denton Manchester 7:00pm.</p>
<p> We may still get a booking for Friday but if we do I’ll let you know.</p>
<p> So, last week we thought we only had the one Saturday gig but we managed to be offered a cancellation for the Friday night, The Imperial Hotel in Morecambe. Obviously being a cancellation it wasn’t packed out as the original band was a different style but we did see quite a few of our Morecambe friends and it all has the makings of being a good venue. We return in September.</p>
<p> Saturday night was one I had been looking forward to for some time. The Hop Pocket in Chorley is well known for its Thursday Rock & Blues nights although to be fair Saturdays are not currently as popular. Still, it’s a great venue and as far as we could tell the people that were there had a good night. We were rebooked and return in November. Let’s see if we can get more people there next time. It turned out that an independent reviewer called Keith Blackledge who often has reviews in the the Chorley Guardian was there but whether the review makes it to the paper I can’t say at this point. Well so far it hasn’t but it’s on our website at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_reviews.cfm">http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_reviews.cfm</a> if you want to have a look.</p>
<p> What else? Well I seem to have got over my bout of the blues and I am looking forward to a busy August. We have eleven gigs booked which isn’t too bad at all. If we do get booked this Friday then that will make it twelve.</p>
<p>The Single “On the Radio” finally appeared on iTunes and Amazon after a bit of chasing. You can find it at <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/on-the-radio-single/id678384006">Itunes</a> at <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/search/ref=sr_kk_2?rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3Athe+clan+on+the+radio&keywords=the+clan+on+the+radio&ie=UTF8&qid=1375261861">Amazon</a>. The promo for this has been slightly delayed but it will pick up a pace now. </p>
<p>This week sees the start of the Cambridge Rock festival, Dear to our hearts as we played both the Springfest and the main summer festival in 2011. We are not playing there this year but it’s a great festival, not too large and very friendly. We have been told we will play there again so fingers crossed for next year. Hope anyone going has a great time.</p>
<p>It’s a funny world really in respect to venues, some love us some don’t want to know? We know we can’t win ‘em all and overall we don’t do too badly. All we know is that 99% of the time we are well received and the other times it is generally because we are the wrong type of band for the venue.</p>
<p>As we always say we just deliver “Good time Feel good rock” to try and give everyone a good night out including ourselves.Ultimately the best nights are created by the audience. Given we normally play a similar set it is surprising how the audiences vary and can make the difference between a difficult gig and a brilliant gig. </p>
<p>From our point of view a smaller appreciative audience makes for a much better night than a large number of indifferent people</p>
<p>As we know a lot of it is down to perception as well, If people are told that someone is worth seeing they will often believe it.</p>
<p>Marketing and PR is very important as you can be the best band in the world but if no-one has heard of you? We are often told by people “oh you should play there” or “why don’t you play there, they’d love you” but sadly it doesn’t work like that.</p>
<p>In general we have already been in touch with the places they mention but unless they hear from other people that we are worth booking it won’t happen. So come on all you Tweeters and Facebookers spread the word. Share the Clan Page, links to the website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/">www.clan-rock.com</a> etc. Tell the venues! </p>
<p>I’m still surprised at the amount of comments I receive from people viewing my “gear” videos on Youtube. Up to approx 30,000 now. Generally they are appreciative and constructive although obviously once you put anything on the internet you are open to a few insults and negative comments. I don’t get many but the only way to respond is to ignore them or delete them. Entering into dialogue with such people is pointless.</p>
<p> I’m not sure what the enjoyment is in insulting someone anonymously? Nothing better to do I guess. Strange people. </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;"> </span></b></p>
<p>Hmm, well nothing major to get annoyed about. I mentioned on FB the other day about people crowding around luggage carousels at the airport. If they just stood back it would all be much easier and far more efficient.</p>
<p>Speaking of flying, is it really necessary to check your passport so many times between passing through to airside and finally sitting in your designated seat. I’m not sure where they think you are going to go between the gate entrance and the end of the air bridge? </p>
<p>It’s summer so the roadworks appear to be on the increase? I don’t suppose there is ever a good time really. </p>
<p>We had a Sunday afternoon gig recently and with it being holiday season I really noticed so many examples of “the Sunday driver”. I’m thinking of writing a song about them.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b> </p>
<p>Difficult one this week, all quite non specific, been flitting all over the place. Planet rock radio is boring me and Radio 2 isn’t great. So it’s been the Ipod most of the time. Quite enjoyed Fleetwood Mac – various albums and also Tom Petty which works really well in the hot weather. Gin Blossoms still sound good. </p>
<p>So, recommended this week? Well Black Sabbath 13 is still sounding good. Probably the best release of the year so far. </p>
<p>So until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/332/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/332/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=332&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/12475462013-07-23T15:06:29+01:002022-04-26T20:49:32+01:00Is Rock Music dead?<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>just read the last blog and it all seemed pretty upbeat. Only one way it could go from there downhill.</p>
<p>So what’s the issue? Well first of all the single hasn’t appeared on the download sites yet. Two weeks after “release” and no-one can buy it from anywhere except our web site <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_albums.cfm">www.clan-rock.com/fr_albums.cfm</a>. I’m chasing up but it may be a while until resolution.</p>
<p>What else – well I am becoming a bit disillusioned with the rock world, something I never thought I would say. Don’t get me wrong I still love playing and listening to a Marshall amplified Stratocaster but it’s the lack of imagination that seemss to have infiltrated the genre that is the cause of my blues. It seems that people only seem to want the same limited number of songs from the same limited number of bands all the time.</p>
<p>Planet rock plays AC/DC, Led Zeppelin every twenty minutes and then even when the listeners get to choose the song they choose the same ones.</p>
<p>At gigs, we like most bands are constantly asked to play an AC/DC, Bon Jovi or Zeppelin number plus of course Freebird. All good bands and songs of course however there are plenty more out there plus plenty of other songs by these bands. Basically it seems that Joe Public wants every band to sound the same and play the same set.</p>
<p>I don’t mind playing a few covers and actually do enjoy it but for my own interest and satisfaction I have to play a few different things occasionally.</p>
<p>When I was growing up there was no AC/DC or Bon Jovi but there was still a lot of good rock.</p>
<p>Oh well I’m sure it’s just a dip in life’s rollercoaster. All be on the ascent again soon.</p>
<p>Have to say that good gigs help and every now and again when everything works like clockwork there is nothing better. At times like that the occassional long trips to play for disinterested people is soon forgotten. So no intentions of stopping.</p>
<p>Anything else happening, well there is a new venue for us this Saturday so looking forward to that then 11 gigs in August including the Swinging Arm in Birkenhead. Not played there for over 12 months so be interesting to see how that one goes.</p>
<p>Also have our favourite venue in August – The Greyhound in Beeston, Notts. Hopefully be as good as usual. We love the people there.</p>
<p>So maybe no reason to feel down eh? Life is to be enjoyed,</p>
<p>Rock on</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/291/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/291/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=291&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/10516122013-07-02T01:45:14+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00On the Radio – gigs played and ZZ Top.<p>Well I can’t believe how fast time is going. It’s two weeks since the last blog and quite a lot has happened. A week or so ago we had three great gigs on the run, the Springfield, Hoggs ‘n’ Heifers and the Toll Point.</p>
<p>We finished our new single “On the Radio” which will be released on July 8<sup>th</sup> via Itunes and other download sites. A catchy little number that rocks and is based on our favourite theme of being on the road travelling from gig to gig. Produced once again by Russ Cottier <a href="http://www.russellcottier.com">www.russellcottier.com</a> who has produced all my recordings since the “Pies,Pasties and Rock ‘n’ Roll” album which started all this off.</p>
<p>Last week I went with my good friend Neil Tudor <a href="http://www.mccartneylookaliketribute.com">www.mccartneylookaliketribute.com</a> to see ZZ Top in Manchester. Quite honestly I was disappointed. Nothing wrong with the music or the set list, I just found the band very boring in their presentation. Hiding behind beards, dark glasses and hats they could have been anyone and there was no way of knowing if they were enjoying themselves. No audience interaction and little movement. Basically the “show” was constant videos throughout which is not my thing. To compound it all they only played for 75 minutes including encores which I consider unacceptable for a top name band. 90 Minutes is what I believe is the bare minimum.</p>
<p>We played a couple of times last weekend – Friday in Burnley, Talbot – best one there yet. Saturday was a charity gig for the Royal British Legion in aid of Armed forces day. Now we are al for that but to be honest there had been no publicity or effort made by the Legion at all. As a consequence we were playing to the usual Saturday night legion regulars most of whom would have preferred a pop band playing Beatles, rock and roll etc. So basically the wrong band in the wrong place and it was hard work to try and get anything going at all.</p>
<p>We suspected as much when we had to wait for the Bingo and the raffle to be drawn. Ah well, can’t win them all.</p>
<p>So Sunday was a nice lazy day and the sun made a brief appearance – lest we forget it is Summer.</p>
<p>No gigs this week as concentrating on promo for the single however we are back on the road with three shows on the run starting on Friday 12<sup>th</sup> July.</p>
<p>I’m still loving the new Black Sabbath album, it has really grown on me. Good to see them getting a no.1 in the States after all this time. Gives us all hope J</p>
<p>Getting home after gigs last weekend I flicked on the TV and watched a bit of “glasto”. Never been a festival I had aspirations to play although I am sure we would if asked. It’s never really known for what I define as rock music.</p>
<p>So despite the considerable coverage by the BBC all I really saw were bands I have never heard of playing music I didn’t really like. It all seemed very depressing and full of angst to me. When did it become unfashionable to have fun playing music?</p>
<p>It’s been three years this month since The Clan came together and I think we have achieved a lot. We’ve played something like 300 gigs some small some large. We’ve met some good people and made some good friends along the way and it’s been fun. Sure we have had our moments but hopefully we will press on for another twelve months. We are already planning the next single and if we can fund it then an album should be out towards the end of the year. We have the material just need the cash!</p>
<p>As always I continue to hustle for gigs although petrol costs are increasingly becoming a consideration.</p>
<p>My videos on Youtube continue to attract more viewings although you have to wonder about some of the people who add comments. That’s what happens when you put things on the internet I guess.</p>
<p> Ok I’m going to have to leave this here as time has once again caught up with me.</p>
<p>Checkout the new single next Monday on Itunes – you will be singing along before the end I am sure.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<p> </p>
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<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/283/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/283/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=283&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/9507402013-06-16T12:14:39+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00Wales, Warrington, Sabbath & Blackmore!<p>Hi all, Craig from the Clan (<a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a>) here again.</p>
<p>So it’s been two weeks since the last one – time flies when you are busy.</p>
<p>I guess the first thing is to report that the rehearsals for the new single went well and Steve and I recorded all the vocals, guitars and bass parts last week. Jim couldn’t make it so the drums are being added on Tuesday. A bit back to front but I’m sure with our producer Russ Cotter’s (<a href="http://www.russellcottier.com">www.russellcottier.com</a>) help it will all be fine.</p>
<p>We played two gigs in Wales a week or so ago, The Clwyd in Shotton which once again went really well. Always a good night there.</p>
<p>The following night we were in the beautiful Trearddur Bay on Anglesey. A great venue called the Waterfront overlooking the bay.A very friendly welcome by Diane and her staff. A disastrous start when Steve broke a string in the first number and then the same string on the spare bass in the second number. No spare strings(?) so one was cannibalised in order to provide a working instrument (whilst I filled in with some solo numbers) but it did throw us for a while. All turned out really well in the end and we will definitely be going back.</p>
<p>This weekend was the Bluebell in Warrington.One to forget if we can. Major interference on the guitar which we couldn’t track down, must have been the electrics in the venue? A very low ceiling meant the lights were in our faces and I had a pillar in front of me which meant I couldn’t really see the the audience; then again I was blinded by the lights so that didn’t help.</p>
<p>The onstage sound was weird and then in the second set the haze machine triggered the fire alarm and the power tripped. So although we didn’t play badly but it was just one of those gigs, couldn’t really tell if the audience enjoyed it or not. I was glad to get home to bed.</p>
<p>Last night normal service was resumed with a cracker of a gig at The Park Hotel in Colwyn Bay. Played there a few times but we could tell in the first number it was all going to be ok. Look forward to returning to that one.</p>
<p>This week I received two new albums – 13 by Black Sabbath and Dancer & the Moon by Blackmore’s Night. </p>
<p>Sabbath’s offering has now grown on me after five listens, I admit it didn’t grab me straight away but I am now familiar with the tracks and it’s turning out to be a great album. Well done boys.</p>
<p>Blackmore shows his class on the latest Blackmore’s Night. As usual his instrumentals stand out for me, especially his tribute to Jon Lord – Carry on .. Jon.</p>
<p>The Stratocaster makes far more appearances than it has of late and the Rainbow Classic “Temple of the King” is nicely reworked.</p>
<p>Candice is still using the same lyric book, I think at least four songs have the word Moon in the title. So not a lot of chang since the first two albums “Shadow of the moon” or “Under a violet Moon”. She sings ok but I guess I am like a lot of people, we kind of tolerate it just for the chance to hear some magic from the man in black. It’s nothing personal against her it’s just how it is.</p>
<p>It is the best album he has made for a while though and the guitars are quite prominent in the mix which is good.</p>
<p>So – looking forward, we should complete the tracking for the single this week and Russ will hopefully mix and master it as well. Release date – end of June?</p>
<p>Next gigs are the Springfield Springy in St Helens on Friday and then a return to the excellent Hogs ‘n’ Heifers in Bentham on Saturday. So it’s all good.</p>
<p>Let’s hope the sun returns this week?</p>
<p>With a bit of luck the next blog will announce the release date for the single,</p>
<p>Until then ,</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
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<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/238/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/238/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=238&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/8684502013-06-03T18:51:19+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00All went well in the end<p>Hi All,</p>
<p>Well I was definitely being paranoid last time and I shouldn’t have been.</p>
<p>Saturday night in the Mechanics had a good crowd and barmaid Zoe picked the winner of our ZZ Top tickets competition out of the hat. Congratulations to Sam Millar of Wigan.</p>
<p>We play there again in August. By the way.</p>
<p>Sunday and the gig in Denton was moved forward to start at 7pm. As it happened a major clash with the England Football match but then again these days football is on constantly so difficult to avoid.</p>
<p>Our worries went away when we arrived, a great music venue even though they have only just started having live bands. We played to a small but enthusiastic crowd and everyone was baying for more when we finished at 9pm. There might not have been many there but they made a lot of noise.</p>
<p>A great gig and we hope the Toll Point gets a reputation for live music, we would be glad to return.</p>
<p>We were supposed to be getting together to run through the next single tomorrow night but car vandalism (Steve’s) has put an end to that. Hopefully only postponed until Thursday.</p>
<p>So two gigs in North Wales at the weekend but that is days away. All sorts of things to fit in before then.</p>
<p>Restringing a couple of guitars might be a good start!</p>
<p>Still it could be worse, my old school (and good) friend Neil Tudor who makes his living as a Paul McCartney tribute /look-alike etc has just returned from a Beatles tribute tour in Germany. His vintage Hofner bass has been really messed up in transit despite being heavily secured in a heavy-duty flight case,</p>
<p>Airport baggage handlers, don’t you just love ‘em?</p>
<p>Ok, time to go – Will try and get back next time something to report. By the way the New Black Star riders album “all hell breaks loose” is well worth a couple of spins.</p>
<p>Rock on</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/234/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/234/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=234&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/8584462013-06-01T12:04:14+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00Nerves, doubts and other emotions<p>Hi folks,</p>
<p>well it’s nearly time to head off the to Mechanics Arms near Queensferry for tonight’s gig. Almost local for us – less than 20 miles. The last time I was in this pub was probably circa 1980 as it was near to where I was working at the time. Presume it has changed since then as I could never have imagined us playing there at that point? So some slight trepidation on my part although to be fair they called us.</p>
<p>Tomorrow is a bit of a concern as well, the Toll Point in Denton, although they have been provided with all our info their web site describes the venue as indie rock which is most definitely not us. I have no qualms about the band of course just that sometimes you are the wrong band for the venue. Hopefully they won’t be shouting for Oasis all night as they won’t get it.</p>
<p>Maybe I’m just having an attack of paranoia, Although we do pretty well for gigs some venues where I am sure we would go down well (or actually have done) just seem to ignore us. I’m sure it’s nothing we are doing wrong, our set seems to be appreciated, our presentation is good and certainly more is put into it than a lot of other bands. We always behave professionally and never have any trouble. So what is it that these venues want? I don’t know and I wish I could buy a bottle. Actually I do know of course, bums on seats.</p>
<p>To be fair the easiest way for them to do this is with the tribute acts (How many AC/DC tributes do people want to see) or by putting on local bands who all bring their mates.</p>
<p>I’m just in one of those moods today, I’m sure once I hit the opening chords tonight it will be blown away and my normal optimistic self will return.</p>
<p>By the way my latest “gear” video has been added to the homepage of <a href="http://www.swiftpedals.co.uk">www.swiftpedals.co.uk</a> as they asked to use it to show off their looper switch. Cool eh?</p>
<p>I am also in negotiations with another vendor to demo their product as they like my presentation style. Also good.</p>
<p>Still changing and tweaking the lyrics for the next single, the theme has changed completely in the last week. Music is the same though.</p>
<p>Right better load up.</p>
<p>By the way despite my “I don’t like funk and I don’t like soul” reference in Rock & Roll it’s in my blood I thoroughly enjoyed the 1967 Stax concert on BBC 4 last night;- Otis Redding, Booker T, Eddi Floyd and others, great stuff. </p>
<p>Right I’ll get back in a couple of days and let you know how it went plus the results of our ZZ Top tickets Draw.</p>
<p>Until then check us out on Facebook Craig Mac or our website <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a>.. Twitter is @theclanrock</p>
<p>Rock on!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/190/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/190/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=190&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/8523072013-05-31T09:10:13+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00ZZ Top draw – last call<p>Today is the last chance to sign up to be in the Free Draw for a pair of tickets to see ZZ in Manchester june 25.</p>
<p>Simply go to Good time feel good rock band’s The Clan site at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm</a> and register you email.<br>
You will be in the draw and even better, receive weekly Clan updates.<br>
What are you waiting for <img src="//s0.wp.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt=":-)" /></p>
<p>Winner announced next week.</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/188/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/188/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=188&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/8113312013-05-24T08:56:13+01:002017-01-14T00:19:00+00:00Long Weekend – Let’s have fun<p>Only two gigs for us but that’s ok. A busy June in prospect.<br>
Arrangement for new single – out end of June- now sorted. Final tweaks to lyrics in progress.</p>
<p>ZZ Top Tickets draw happens a week tomorrow so if interested register at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm" rel="nofollow">http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm</a></p>
<p>Not great weather at moment but expecting some sun over weekend.<br>
Be good for tomorrow’s Charity Oxjam.<br>
Hmm, we may play Home of the devil tonight<br>
, not played it for ages.</p>
<p>So have a good one, don’t take life too seriously and keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig.</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/186/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/186/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=186&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7856912013-05-21T08:56:25+01:002020-11-18T09:01:04+00:00Blogging from phone<p>Well here we go again. A miserable wet Tuesday and now found the wordpress phone app so can blog on the move.<br>
Great eh?</p>
<p>Not too much happening, quite a few new Clan members since the other day which is great.<br>
Looking forward to Friday in Altrincham. A good music venue and an in house PA.<br>
Saturday is a one hour show as part of OXJAM in Hoylake. All for charity: we play Jack Rabbits at 3:30. </p>
<p>Put a bid in for another speaker cab this week but unsuccessful. Not worried really. Think I have enough. </p>
<p>Work on the new single going well. Decided on song now which is a good start.<br>
That will keep me busy until Friday.</p>
<p>Until then, keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig<br><span id="more-184"></span></p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/184/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/184/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=184&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7695542013-05-18T04:38:38+01:002021-12-09T20:19:59+00:00Free draw to see ZZ Top in Manchester courtesy of The Clan<p>Join The Clan and receive free entry into a draw to win a pair of tickets to see the legendary Texan Boogie Trio ZZ Top in Manchester on June 25th. As big fans of the band the Clan often throw a couple of ”Top” songs into the set but now by courtesy of the band we are able to offer you the chance to see the real deal.</p>
<p>All you need to do is sign up on our mailing list at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm">www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm</a> between now and the end of May (last day May 31st) and you will automatically be in the draw. it’s for a pair of standing tickets at the Manchester Apollo worth a total of £80.</p>
<p>Of course the real bonus by signing up is that you will also receive a weekly update relating to all things Clan, ie where we are playing, new release info etc. so that is good enough good reason to get on board on it’s own. Plenty of people have.</p>
<p>Apart from that we are eagerly awaiting the new albums from Black Star Riders, Black Sabbath and Blackmore’s Night. (Weird, all have the word Black in them?) plus looking forward to the Cult tour in October. So who knaows there may well eb more goodies from the Clan.</p>
<p>Currently next for us – We play the Old Market Tavern in Altrincham on Friday 24th May. Saturday 25th May sees us playing a local OXJAM charity gig in Hoylake (At Jack Rabbit’s – 3:30pm) . Oxjams happen all over the country and raise money for OXFAM by having numerous bands playing in a range of venues within an area. A great idea we think and should be good fun. All type of music so someone for everybody.</p>
<p>This weekend we are having a scheduled lay off as we have been pretty busy. Back in the studio in less than four weeks for the next single – hmm, better decide what it’s going to be.</p>
<p>Ok, enjoy the weekend and share this post!</p>
<p>Rock on</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/146/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/146/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=146&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7493822013-05-15T16:43:59+01:002022-05-19T05:07:23+01:00Some you win some you lose!<p>Hi all, </p>
<p>Ok the weekend is still a scheduled break so I am still planning to reorganise and maintain some of my equipment. I’m carrying far too many things I don’t use around with me. Weather forecast not looking good though unfortunately and it is always handy to use the space outside of the house to do such things.</p>
<p>Since the last update we have received a booking at the Swinging Arm – Birkenhead – August and we were called by Whittles in Oldham so looks like we will be back there soon as well.</p>
<p>I’m wondering whether to reissue the “Rockin’ the Arm – EP” (recorded at the swinging arm) as a free download to coincide with the Swingie gig. Still, I have a couple of months to ponder that one.</p>
<p>Just found out that the Sunday gig at The Mix in Burnley has been cancelled due to general lack of support for the venue,</p>
<p>Ah well you win some you lose some.</p>
<p>I have some time available tomorrow so intending to record some arrangements of ideas for the new single. I’ll then spend a week developing lyrics and tweaking the arrangements so we should be all set for June. Just need to decide whether to do the rocker or the power ballad and then let Jim and Steve hear them so they can learn them! It might help.</p>
<p>I’ve just found out that it is the Northwest guitar show on Sunday at Haydock racecourse, might be an option if there is nothing else to do. I don’t really need anything at the moment of course but sometimes nice to look.</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/142/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/142/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=142&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7312972013-05-13T13:59:24+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00Three Gigs, Sleep and Pedal board video<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Well a very successful series of gigs. All three were great fun and greatly appreciated by the people there.</p>
<p>It was nice to have a relaxing day on Sunday though I must admit. Went to Scogs for breakfast (well brunch I guess as it was noon) then back home to catch up on some sleep in front of the TV.</p>
<p>It was a lazy day but why not?</p>
<p>The Pedal board video is now public on you tube at – <a href="http://youtu.be/69KjhyEnA1Q">http://youtu.be/69KjhyEnA1Q</a></p>
<p>I guess the next thing to do is write or decide on the next single as we are booked to record it on June 11<sup>th</sup>. There’s nothing like a booked studio to focus the mind.</p>
<p>I’ve noticed an interesting and promising trend recently as far as the band is concerned; a few people have come to us to make bookings rather than us having to go to them. Maybe people have finally realised that when they book The Clan they get a reliable, experienced and entertaining band who deliver somewhat more than many of the bands they book. Let’s hope the trend continues.</p>
<p>I’m not stupid though, I do realise that a venue’s main objective is really how many people turn up (if charging) and how much money they take over the bar, so many are not that bothered as to the quality of the band. It’s about the numbers, however in my experience the more people enjoy themselves the more they turn up and the more they drink.</p>
<p>On the downside, still no further news about the Wheatsheaf festival in Preston but no news is good news, right?</p>
<p>Still haven’t changed my strings, will definitely do this before the Old Market Tavern. Actually there are quite a few small jobs I need to do relating to equipment. As we have a scheduled weekend off this week it may be a good opportunity.</p>
<p>Right,</p>
<p>Until next time</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/137/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/137/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=137&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7211812013-05-11T07:10:50+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00Three gigs and a Texan Trio<p>Hi all, </p>
<p>First off – Still time to sign up for our <b>ZZ TOP</b> ticket draw. You only have until the end of May. Simply sign up to our Mailing list at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a> during May and you will be in the draw for a pair of standing tickets to see<b> ZZ Top – Manchester Apollo – June 25<sup>th</sup>. Total prize is worth approx £80.</b> </p>
<p>The third video in my series of “equipment” videos is now loaded up on YouTube. I just need to find the time to make it public. I’ll pass on the link when I have done so.</p>
<p>My first video has had over 20,000 views and the second one is over 3,000. So all good stuff and it’s nice that people find them useful? Well I hope they do.</p>
<p>The latest one explains how my pedal board is set up and why it is the way it is. Possibly it passes on a few useful tips?</p>
<p>There is also has a short section at the end demonstrating the Orange Micro terror 20Watt valve amp. I don’t go into great detail about this as quite frankly there is not a lot to show other than how it could be used as a “get you through the gig” spare if your main amp dies.</p>
<p>Hmm, just had a gig cancelled – Wheatsheaf festival in Preston on August 4<sup>th</sup>? The bands for this were being booked through an agency and we were one of them; apparently the agency is no longer supplying the bands. Obviously I will follow up direct and see if we can salvage anything so all may not be lost. </p>
<p>Thursday night we were in the Raven in Crewe- what a nice place and fabulous people. Wasn’t heaving but we had a great time as the ones that were there were really having fun. We return in August. </p>
<p>Last night was the second of three gigs on the run, the Bath in Morecambe. We have played the Bath several time including New Year’s Eve which I think was the last time? Went well.</p>
<p>Tonight it’s a local gig when we return to the Saughall Hotel.</p>
<p>Tomorrow I sleep haha</p>
<p>Ok,</p>
<p>Rock & Roll</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/132/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/132/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=132&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/7011902013-05-08T16:01:01+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00Three gigs and Deep Purple album<p>Well there aren’t enough hours in the day. Spent several of them today sorting out posters for gigs in June. Quite a lot of them.</p>
<p>Other than that, New Deep Purple album on rotation, not bad at all. Tomorrow starts of a series of three gigs which will be fun. New venue for us first, The Raven Live lounge in Crewe?</p>
<p>Not much else to tell you right now, looking at replacing our par can T-bar lights with something smaller but definitely not LCD based. I find those far too harsh and cold.</p>
<p>Stick to real bulbs!</p>
<p>Ok, That’ll do for now need to chill out.</p>
<p>see ya</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/122/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/122/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=122&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6830932013-05-06T14:07:52+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00Alcohol= Honesty? Red Door, Gigs etc.<p>Well probably not but It’s a Bank holiday Monday here in the UK so popped out to relax and had a few beers. I have to say the new menu in West Kirby’s Red Door is much better than their previous offerings.</p>
<p>So although the band performed well this weekend neither gig stood out as memorable or above our (high standard) normal level. Nothing wrong with the venues, just a shortage of people really.</p>
<p>I think I will assume that three days is too much for people to be out given the economic climate. I don’t think it was specifically down to us being on. I have to say that wherever we play we always get good comments and feedback.</p>
<p>The one thing that I do get annoyed at that is the current trend to leave Televisions on all through the pubs whilst we are playing. At the risk of shooting myself in the foot I do wonder why venues bother to book bands if they are are going to leave TVs on. Personally I find it a bit ignorant and rude but hey they are the ones taking the money and deciding where it goes so fair enough. Bit off putting though when playing as TVs are difficult to ignore and I have found myself watching them whilst half way through the set which is not good.</p>
<p>Bit surprised more of you haven’t signed up to the ZZ Top Tickets draw at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a>, It is free!</p>
<p>So this week we have three gigs starting on Thursday in Crewe. Another new venue for us so fingers crossed for that one.</p>
<p>Friday is the normally good Bath in Morecambe and Saturday is local at the Saughall Hotel – Wirral.</p>
<p>So thanks to all who were at the Hare & Hounds or the Griffin last weekend, next time bring your friends <img src="//s0.wp.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt=":-)" /></p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/89/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/89/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=89&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6771192013-05-05T06:49:56+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00The Rock Rolls on<p>Well the ZZ Top Tickets draw is attracting a lot of attention which is good. More likes on the FB page and more hits on the website. All helping to publicise the Clan.</p>
<p>Ok, last night was the Hare & Hounds in Clayton Le Moors. Nice venue but a bit quiet. First set was quite buy but alot drifted away which is always worrying. I don’t think it was down to us, just the time and location. Bank Holiday weekends always unpredictable.</p>
<p>Anyway we do it all again tonight at The Griffin in Earlestown. A good music venue so hopefully everyone is still enjoying their weekend.</p>
<p>Bit of relaxing beforehand though, sun is trying to break through so a nice quiet day in prospect I think.</p>
<p>Remember we have a draw for a pair of ZZ Top tickets (Manchester Apollo June 25th) which you can be in with a chance of winning. Just sign up to our mailing list at <a href="http://www.clan-rock.com">www.clan-rock.com</a></p>
<p>Rock on</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/76/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/76/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=76&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6587672013-05-02T14:37:47+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00ZZ Top Ticket draw (Manchester) , this week’s Clan gigs & More<p>Hi all, </p>
<p>Ok – Big news for <b>ZZ TOP</b> Fans, take note:- The Clan have a pair of tickets available for the Texan rock trio’s gig in Manchester on 25<sup>th</sup> June. The gig is at the Manchester Apollo theatre.</p>
<p> All you have to do to be entered into the <b>free draw </b>to win the pair is to sign up to the Clan’s mailing list during May 2013. Everyone already on the mailing list is eligible (subject to an email confirmation) plus anyone signing up between now and May 31<sup>st</sup> will also be included.</p>
<p>The tickets will posted out to the lucky winner week commencing June 17<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>Sign up on the Clan website at the contact us page.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm">www.clan-rock.com/fr_contactus.cfm</a></p>
<p>Well there was only the one gig last weekend which was at the Red Cat. Place was heaving when we arrived but it was people watching the Liverpool/Newcastle football game of course. Needless to say quite a few left when it finished.</p>
<p>Anyway, we set- up the gear and experienced a strange effect. I was tuning my guitar and sound was coming out from somewhere. This was rather odd as my Amplifier was on standby (in other words off). A bit of investigation revealed that it was coming from the Pub speakers, turned out they had a wireless microphone used for quiz nights and it was on my guitar frequency. Turning their receiver off solved that one. Never had that before and you think you’ve seen it all. We live and learn.</p>
<p>Gig itself went well and whilst not the most visibly or audibly appreciative crowd the feedback afterwards was all positive. </p>
<p>I was home less than five minutes after leaving there which really doesn’t happen very often and made a nice change.</p>
<p>I really must change my strings this week.</p>
<p>Last night I was out filming the next of my “gear” videos which this time had me a little bit out of my comfort zone, sitting down and not holding my guitar! Well we’ll have to see how it turns out.</p>
<p>I know Dave is quite busy at the moment jetting around the world so not sure when he will find time to do the editing, still there is no rush.</p>
<p>This week we play a couple of gigs, nothing tomorrow (Friday) as yet.</p>
<p>Saturday we play a new venue to us, The Hare & Hounds in Clayton Le Moors – Accrington.</p>
<p>Sunday we return to the Griffin in Newton Le Willows/Earlstown which was a great gig last time.</p>
<p>So until then, register on our mailing list and the chance to win the ZZ top tickets but more importantly Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/69/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/69/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=69&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6322652013-04-29T14:39:56+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00The Cat Roared<p>Hi all,</p>
<p> Well there was only the one gig last weekend which was at the Red Cat. Place was heaving when we arrived but it was people watching the Liverpool/Newcastle football game of course. Needless to say quite a few left when it finished.</p>
<p>Anyway, we set- up the gear and experienced a strange effect. I was tuning my guitar and sound was coming out from somewhere. This was rather odd as my Amplifier was on standby (in other words off). A bit of investigation revealed that it was coming from the Pub speakers, turned out they had a wireless microphone used for quiz nights and it was on my guitar frequency. Turning their receiver off solved that one. Never had that before and you think you’ve seen it all. We live and learn.</p>
<p>Gig itself went well and whilst not the most visibly or audibly appreciative crowd the feedback afterwards was all positive. </p>
<p>I was home less than five minutes after leaving there which really doesn’t happen very often and made a nice change.</p>
<p>I really must change my strings this week.</p>
<p>So Wednesday night I’m out to film the next of my “gear” videos then a couple of gigs booked this weekend which I’ll mention later in the week.</p>
<p> So until then</p>
<p> Keep Rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/65/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/65/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=65&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6209822013-04-27T03:48:46+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00The Cat that got the cream<p>Looking forward to the Red cat gig tonight, just hope there are some people there?</p>
<p>Needless to say when I called in the other day to drop off some Clan beer mats and check everything ok I discovered that Karen and Russ had departed so I feared the worst (i.e. a cancelled gig). However, there seems to be a temporary manager in place called Steve and he is running with business as usual so we are good to go.</p>
<p>I doubt he will be rebooking though as presumably any new people that take over may have their own thoughts on how to run the place. Still, nothing I can do about that so let’s just have fun tonight. We can always use it as a reference in the future.</p>
<p> Thursday night I thought I would have a go at developing a song idea I have for the next single but I don’t think I was in the right frame of mind. I wasn’t really getting anywhere then a string broke so I figured best to leave it and start again when feeling a bit fresher. I find it difficult to decide to sit and write a song, for me the ideas just come at any time, trying to force them is not my way.</p>
<p> I have mentioned this in other postings but I bought Classic rock magazine this month – first time for a while and it is actually a good read. Amazingly even the “free” CD is not bad either and I rarely listen to those. I actually managed to listen to 14 of the 15 songs and I am even considering investigating some of the artists a bit further.</p>
<p> Ok, – have a good weekend folks.</p>
<p> Keep rockin’</p>
<p> Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/60/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/60/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=60&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6010312013-04-24T15:44:06+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00This week, Recording date and new video<p>Well this week we only have the one gig – A local one at The Red Cat in Greasby, Wirral. Not a venue known for bands in the past but they have had a few recently so we’ll see how it goes. On the plus side there is a good raised area to play on and people can see quite easily so as long as there are folks there it should be good.</p>
<p> Probably use the reduced speaker set-up, don’t want to frighten anyone into thinking we are too loud. We play at the same volume regardless to be honest but some gear looks like it is louder than others to the casual observer.</p>
<p>I’m quite looking forward to it.</p>
<p>Need to change my strings beforehand though, since the last restringing I have had tuning problems so time for a new set.</p>
<p> I’ve booked a studio in June for recording the next single as well. It is still some time away but it should focus me on writing it. I have a few ideas and options but it will definitely be a new original track. We couldn’t get Parr Street this time (our favourite Studio) so we will be in Whitby – Ellesmere Port. Our Producer Russ Cottier tells me it is well equipped and will give us a good sound.</p>
<p> Next week is probably filming another video in my “Gear” series. We might even film the next two at the same time. The last one has now had 1500 viewings; basically it doubled since Jimmy Page commented on it.</p>
<p> Ok bye for now.</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/56/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/56/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=56&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5811232013-04-22T10:56:18+01:002020-01-10T11:24:29+00:00All good things come in threes!<p>It’s true, three good gigs last weekend including two venues new to us.</p>
<p>Started off on Friday with a crackin’ gig at The Springfield in St Helens. The audience included these guys (Last Bastion ) who helped to swell the crowd numbers. </p>
<p><a href="http://craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/p41901002.jpg"><img src="//craigmacblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/p41901002.jpg?w=650" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Image" id="i-35" /></a>Best night we have had there yet, we return in June.</p>
<p>Saturday had us heaading back up the M6 to Morecambe. Not to the Bath this time but just round the corner on the Prom at The Queens. Only recently under new Management, a good sized venue with friendly staff. It might take a while to build up the right crowd but the folks that were there really enjoyed us and we enjoyed them enjoying us. Back there in July.</p>
<p>Sunday – yes Sunday and an early evening gig at Whittles Rock pub in Oldham. A bit tired from the previous two late nights but it was only a short one hour set before the venue’s regular “Jam Night”. This one had a house PA and a sound engineer so no need to cart too much gear with us. We actually kicked off at 6pm and did 60 minutes of mixed covers/originals which seemed to go down well with the sizeable audience. We certainly didn’t do ourselves any harm at all. The only downside is that the venue is closing at the end of April. Still, at least Oldham now knows what we do. We wish good luck to all the staff.</p>
<p>Next up for us – Saturday – a Local gig at The Red Cat – Greasby, Wirral. Another first for us. Looking forward to it.</p>
<p>So it’s all good at the moment, single is being well received both Live and on download.</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<p> </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/27/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/27/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=27&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5338642013-04-15T16:06:11+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00Three Gigs this weekend – The Clan rock on!<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>First off</p>
<p>This week’s CLAN Gigs are:-</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 19<sup>th</sup> April</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Springfield</b></p>
<p>Thatto Heath</p>
<p>St Helens</p>
<p>** Usually 9:00-11:00 however Pub now has extended opening so may be later.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;"> </span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 20<sup>th</sup> April</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Queens Arms</b></p>
<p>Marine Drive</p>
<p>Morecambe</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sunday 21<sup>st</sup> April</span></b></p>
<p><b>Whittles Rock Pub</b></p>
<p>Oldham</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p>** 5:30 – 7:00</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ok what’s been happening? Well obviously the single was released last week and received some airplay. Whether we can keep any momentum going on this or build it up I don’t know but it won’t be through lack of effort on my part.</p>
<p> I have noticed that not all of you on the mailing list have taken advantage of the free download; I can’t make you do this of course J. Maybe you have bought it from ITunes or Amazon instead but I have no way of knowing at the moment.</p>
<p>So last Friday we played the Ridger in West Kirby, a local gig and we were looking forward to this as it was a good one when we played there back in February. From my point of view I was quite disappointed in the gig, I don’t know why and it actually went down quite well but for me personally it was a difficult one; nothing seemed to be working like it usually does. Sometimes this just happens but hey it’s only rock & roll, not to be taken too seriously.</p>
<p>We will be back though and next time I am sure any issues will be corrected.</p>
<p>Saturday we were back at the Cardwell Arms in Adlington, a great venue if somewhat compact. We’ve always had good nights in here and Saturday was no exception even thought there seemed to be less people in than usual. I don’t think this was caused by us as Taff the landlord reported a quiet night all over town. </p>
<p>I was a lot happier with this gig, even though using smaller equipment in order to fit it in to the space everything was just far more comfortable and working as expected.</p>
<p>Good fun.</p>
<p>Not a lot else has happened. I am still hoping to get to the Tate gallery in Liverpool to see the “Glam” exhibition before it finishes but not sure when I may get there. I can’t see it being this weekend as there are three gigs including a late afternoon one in Whittles.</p>
<p>Until Next time,</p>
<p>Keep rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/22/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/22/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=22&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5119552013-04-11T16:25:41+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00Craig’s Weekly – New Single, Bad eating, Sabbath & Gigs<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>This week’s CLAN Gigs are:-</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Friday 12<sup>th</sup> April</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Ridger</b></p>
<p>China Farm Lane</p>
<p>West Kirby/Newton</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Saturday 13<sup>th</sup> April</span></b></p>
<p><b>The Cardwell Arms</b></p>
<p>Adlington</p>
<p>Lancs</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ok, a couple of things to clarify first of all.</p>
<p>The first is that this blog update is now going to be sent from the Clan website rather than my own Craig McDonald Website. There will be no major changes to its format and I will be leaving the Clan logo off the correspondence. I will still keep the weekly gig dates at the top so that those of you who only require that information don’t have to trawl through my waffle to find it J</p>
<p>It will still be my Blog/update and reflect my personal opinions. The reasons for the change are: – the majority of you are on both mailing lists anyway and it is far more efficient to manage one list than two, it is also easier to manage one web site and given most of my activities relate to the band anyway there is not a lot of point in me having to use the two different sites. I will still be maintaining my own site but it won’t be updated as often as the Clan site is.</p>
<p>If any of you don’t wish to receive this from the band site then simply click the unsubscribe option at the bottom of this email.</p>
<p>The second thing is that the new Single “Hungry Like the Wolf” is now released and is hopefully flying down the wires and across radio links from sites such as ITunes and Amazon. As members on the mailing list you should all have received a unique code which allows you to download the song free of charge. If you haven’t received codes then please let us know by sending us an email at <a href="mailto:clan-rock@virginmedia.com">clan-rock@virginmedia.com</a> and we will rectify the situation.</p>
<p>We would actually be interested in hearing your comments about the track. If anyone wishes to add a review either on ITunes or Amazon we’d appreciate that as well.</p>
<p>Ok – Although mentioned above here are this weeks gigs</p>
<p>The first is a welcome return to The Ridger in West Kirby, Wirral. We first played the venue in February at which time it was our first local gig since June 2012. It went very well and they asked us back for this Friday, 12<sup>th</sup> April, looking forward to it. The single will be featured of course.</p>
<p>The second is on Saturday 13<sup>th</sup> April when we return to the Cardwell Arms in Adlington. Always been a good venue for us despite the tight squeeze to fit us and the equipment in and the entrance to the toilets meaning people have to walk through the performance area to get to them. Steve and I will be taking smaller backline gear this week so although visually it will not be the way we like it (we like large speaker stacks) we will fit in better. Don’t panic The Clan “sound” will be the same.</p>
<p>Last Friday we thought we were going to get a night off but late on Friday afternoon we were contacted and asked to play The Wheatsheaf in Preston. The booked band had cancelled so we came to the rescue. It turned out to be a really excellent gig in a very nice venue with very friendly people, staff and customers. It all went well and we really hope we can get to return in our own right with a bit more notice</p>
<p>Saturday was a long planned night off then on Sunday I went along to have an on air chat with Kevin McDempster on Leasowe’s (7Waves radio) Rock show. Obviously I took the opportunity to push both the new single and this Fridays Ridger gig and generally had a very pleasant chat with Kevin. Initial audience feedback via Facebook etc. indicated that people like the track. Now if only we can get some bigger stations to take note.</p>
<p>I know John White from Wigan FM is playing the track a few times but really some of the BBC stations would be a great help. That being said I have heard from the man himself that Billy Butler played it on Radio Merseyside last Saturday.</p>
<p>My Boss Digital delay pedal packed up last week or something in the loop did. I’ll have to look at it this week and sort it before Friday. I will be very surprised if it is the Boss pedal as they are usually pretty bullet proof. I am sure it is probably something simple such as a faulty patch cable. Good thing we don’t play any U2 numbers, most of them are virtually impossible without a delay pedal ha-ha.</p>
<p>Fortunately I tend not to rely on effects units, I only use them to help out every now and again and provide a bit of variety to the sound.</p>
<p>So – not a lot else happened really, everything has been geared to the single release which has now happened. Will keep pushing that over the next couple of weeks and then probably start thinking about the next one.</p>
<p>We have a few Fridays and Saturdays which need to be filled as well so need to keep chasing on that front?</p>
<p>We do ok for gigs but it’s a constant effort. There are so many bands trying to get in to so few venues.</p>
<p>I only thought about this the other day but actually the downturn in the pub trade has actually made more pubs diversify and some pubs are now putting on live music to try and attract custom whereas they didn’t before. Whether this will be sustained in the long term remains to be seen.</p>
<p>We would really like to be a notch above the Pub circuit anyway but I’m certainly not going to knock it.</p>
<p>On the plus side this week, we have Black Sabbath announcing UK dates in December. A definite if I can obtain a ticket. They have a new album out in June which I am looking forward to as well so it’s all good. I know there are complaints from some quarters that it’s not Black Sabbath without Bill Ward on Drums and I can understand that but for whatever reason the best we are going to get is Ozzy, Tony and Geezer so let’s just live with it and be grateful we have three out of four. Maybe it should be called BIO (Butler, Iommi, Osbourne) but whatever they call it I’m pretty sure it will be worth going to. There aren’t many bands that have been playing for over forty years with all original members still alive let alone playing in the same band. The only one that springs to mind is Status Quo on their recent Frantic four reunion tour.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rants</span></b></p>
<p>Lorry drivers on mobile phones. Really not a good idea and I don’t like seeing a 50 ton truck coming round a corner towards me when the guy has a phone to his ear. Van drivers are just as bad. I’m sorry but you can buy a Bluetooth hands free set for less than £50 these days so there is no reason why all business vehicles should have one if they expect the drivers to use the phone for work.</p>
<p>Current eating trends continue to amaze and annoy me. When did it become normal for people to forget how to use a knife and fork? Have I missed some form of universal bulletin that suggested we all need to hold our cutlery in the most inefficient manner we can find or make it even more difficult by putting it in the wrong hands?</p>
<p>Not sure if I have mentioned it before but there are a few phrases that really wind me up.</p>
<p>“My Bad” is one. Seems to be short for “it’s my fault” so why not just say that. “My bad” actually has no grammatical meaning at all.</p>
<p>Gotten – this is also totally wrong. Yes I know they use this in the USA but as we don’t live there why do people here use it. The word they should be using is simply “got”. I don’t think I have ever heard anyone use the word “gotten” when the word “got” couldn’t be used.</p>
<p>I see the post offices are installing automated stamp and postage machines presumably in an effort to reduce the numbers of counter staff. I was there the other day and both automated machines were out of order and the reduction in counter staff meant huge queues and a 30 minute wait to buy a stamp. Not much to say about that one really.</p>
<p>Have the self service tills in supermarkets reduced staff numbers? Seems to me there are as many people wandering around authorising alcohol, medicine and other similar purchases at these tills.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Music</span></b></p>
<p>Music this week well in anticipation of the new Sabbath record and the tour I have had mid 90s Live Sabbath Reunion album playing a fair bit. Not bad at all. A few favourites missed off (nothing from Sabotage) but I guess you can’t please everybody and no real turkeys, i.e. nothing from Never say Die.</p>
<p>Personally I like Live albums to be raw and the Sabbath “Live at last” repackaged as Past Lives is still a favourite of mine. It won’t be to everyone’s taste as it is very rough and ready but I like it.</p>
<p>What else – Well some old favourites such as the fly labels compilation Bolan Boogie. I must put a playlist together of the rockier T.rex songs, there are plenty of them. Buick McKane, Chariot Choogle etc.</p>
<p>I did give some of the later T.Rex albums a listen as well (Futuristic dragon, Dandy in the underworld) but I find them difficult to listen to. Some of the songs are ok but to my ears they are ruined by some dreadful keyboards which is probably down to the fact that Tony Visconti was no longer producing. If he had been who knows how they may have turned out.</p>
<p>So Recommended listening this week – The Clan – Hungry Like the Wolf (of course)</p>
<p>Until next time,</p>
<p>Keep Rockin’</p>
<p>Craig</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/12/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/12/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=12&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5077112013-04-11T05:59:27+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00Thursday<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/10/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/10/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=10&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/6772542013-04-10T16:00:01+01:002017-01-14T00:18:59+00:00blog 4<p>final test</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/8/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/8/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=8&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5038112013-04-10T16:00:01+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00blog 4<p>final test</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/8/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/8/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=8&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5032472013-04-10T15:56:23+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00blog 3<p>test 3 </p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/6/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/6/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=6&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5031862013-04-10T15:47:32+01:002017-01-14T00:18:58+00:00blog2<p>test 2</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/4/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/4/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=4&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clantag:clan-rock.com,2005:Post/5031402013-04-10T15:23:29+01:002022-03-20T03:14:06+00:00test blog<p>test blog</p>
<br><a rel="nofollow" href="http://feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/gocomments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2/"><img src="//feeds.wordpress.com/1.0/comments/craigmacblog.wordpress.com/2/" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></a> <img src="//stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=craigmacblog.wordpress.com&blog=50149767&post=2&subd=craigmacblog&ref=&feed=1" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />The Clan