Modern Song

I'm two chapters/songs in now and really enjoying this. I didn't buy it on release last year in view of the price and indifferent reviews, but I really enjoyed the eclectic mix of tracks on the Gideon Coe Radio 6 programme based on the book. The fact that it came down to half price too might have influenced me.

I'm building my own playlist as I go through the book. The first two chapters also, unexpectedly, stirred memories unrelated to the songs.

#1 Detroit City (Bobby Bare) - I remember my first visit to the US, explaining to the stewardess on the quiet Pan Am flight to Detroit that it was our first trip. She expressed mocking surprise that we should choose Detroit as a first destination but when we said we were going on to Chicago she said that was even worse! I also remember we got lost driving to the hotel and had to stop at a seedy looking bar to ask directions, but they were very friendly and helpful, and fascinated by our accents.

#2 Pump It Up (Elvis Costello) - I remember going to see Elvis at Barbarella's in Birmingham. It must have been in the late 70s shortly before they closed. I went with a mate and his girlfriend and she insisted on us being right at the front so we were only a couple of feet away from Elvis at the front of the stage.

I wonder if the other chapters are going to come up with memories like this. I'll no doubt let you know.

I'm also enjoying my Patti Smith book. Today's entry - Thinking of nothing. I remember my mother sitting like this. And I would ask, what is it
Mommy? And she would say, Oh nothing. And now I know what nothing is.

A lot of effort went into this image by the way. Colour saturation adjustments, double exposure via Analog Efex, a bit of masking ...

One year ago:
Spider In A Vase