Music was my first love…
This is the soundtrack to a life well travelled — classic albums, deep cuts, backstories, playlists and concert memories that deserve a place on your turntable or in your headphones.
You’ll find first-hand reviews of landmark albums, reflections on unforgettable live shows, and playlists to match a mood, a moment, or a destination. Some of the records here are well known. Others might just surprise you.
What Does Hotel California Really Mean? Unlocking the Eagles’ Dark Allegory
Hotel California isn’t just a song—it’s the overture to an album that unravels the excesses, illusions, and ultimate disillusionment of rock stardom. By starting at The Last Resort and working backwards, we see how the Eagles crafted a thematic journey akin to a rock opera, where the title track sets the stage for the rise and fall that follows.
Hit the North - January New Music Discoveries
January was packed with new music discoveries, from post-punk classics to hidden gems. This month’s finds include The Fall’s “Hit the North Part 1,” Gabriels’ soulful “Glory,” and overlooked treasures like Woody Simmons’ “Grey Today.” Plus, a Jeff Beck & Johnny Depp collaboration and a Eurovision-inspired Polish pop-rock anthem. Dive into the Spotify playlist and explore the highlights!
Who Were the Original Eagles? Tracing the Rise and Ruptures of an Iconic Rock Band
The Eagles are one of the most successful bands in the history of rock music, with over 150 million albums sold worldwide and six number one albums. Their music has had a lasting impact on the American sound, blending elements of country, folk, and rock into a unique and enduring style.
I need a lemon squeezer - our favourite new music discoveries of 2024
Every month in 2024 brought new musical discoveries, from Dolly Parton classics to fresh tracks by Lauren Mayberry and David Gilmour. This journey across genres and eras included jazz renditions, folk gems, and standout albums like Kacey Musgraves’ Deeper Well and The Rolling Stones’ Let It Bleed. Explore playlists and hidden gems that defined our year
Adding to the Time Machine with New Music Discoveries
In 2018, inspired by a friend’s habit, we began creating monthly Spotify playlists of ‘new’ music—any track I hadn’t heard before. 75 months later, they’re our personal time capsules.
Hard Times are Over
In November 1980, John Lennon and Yoko Ono released Double Fantasy, their collaborative album that would tragically become John’s last. Its closing track, “Hard Times Are Over,” feels particularly poignant—a hopeful message at the end of a turbulent decade. Let's take a look and listen this heartbreaking final song.
Concert Review: Lauren Mayberry at the O2, London
Lauren Mayberry, best known as the former Chvrches frontwoman, wowed the O2 crowd supporting London Grammar. Her solo set previewed tracks from her debut album Vicious Creature, blending introspective lyrics with infectious energy. With a sound that recalls Siouxsie Sioux & The Cure, Mayberry delivered a standout performance that left me eager for more!
The Best Record Shops in Bath
Bath is a treasure trove for vinyl lovers, with a mix of charity shop finds, indie gems, and specialist collections waiting to be discovered. From second-hand classics to brand-new pressings, and even rare dance or classical records, this city has something for every crate digger. Whether you’re after a bargain, a unique piece, or just the joy of exploring, Bath’s record shops won’t disappoint. Ready to uncover the city’s vinyl secrets? Check out my guide and start planning your next dig!
From Animals to Zabriskie Point - an ever growing A-Z of Pink Floyd
I set myself the challenge of making an A-Z of Pink Floyd and it's wider universe. From Animals to Zabriskie, this is an ever growing list of Floyd. There will be key figures I miss, albums I overlook and so much more I could add! Let's call this an ever growing A-Z of Pink Floyd and see where we get to!
Concert Review: London Grammar at the O2, London
Seeing London Grammar live at the O2 in London was an unforgettable experience. The setlist blended classics like Hey Now and Wasting My Young Years with newer tracks from Californian Soil and their latest album. Hannah Reid’s incredible voice captivated the audience, from a stunning rendition of Hell to the Liars to a playful moment during You and I when the crowd hesitated to sing back, preferring to hear her soar.With Lauren Mayberry opening and a powerful encore featuring Lose Your Head, this concert was a true celebration of one of Britain’s finest bands.