Pete's traveling blog.

My friend Pete is off traveling through America at this very moment. He started off in New York and has migrated south to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, documenting his journey along the way. I've found myself glued to his adventures, checking the blog everyday for new episodes. Maybe it's because he's a friend, maybe it's because Pete rips a good yarn, and maybe it's because I'd kill to be exploring American cities with nothing to govern me except my own free will. I enjoy little more than meandering through a new city, following my instincts and seeing where I end up. That and I really miss New York.

So as I get older and more settled (?) it's like i'm following the travels of the adventurous loner in my head. The difference is my loner is governed by worry and Pete's is a lot tougher (and a little more ginger) than I will ever be.

So here's the blog.

And here's an mp3 for Pete:
Led Zeppelin - 'Ramble On' Buy

Rise Above.

Well I just got back from playing in Brighton with my band. The now customary 4 people attended. It went well though and my synth player's debut was flawless as far as I could tell. I'm getting used to blocking out the disappointment at the crap turn out. I won't let it bother me. I've been watching lots of footage of 80s hardcore punks and (parts of) their attitude is great. The whole idea of doing music for yourself and being happy with it being a great form of expression. DIY near-legend Ian Mackaye (Minor Threat, Fugazi, Dischord record label etc) talks about not needing to be validated by being signed to a major label, or whatever your goal is that would need to make you feel 'real'. I can't say i'm fully capable of subscribing to it, but I think it's a really healthy outlook.

Here's some great 80s american hardcore and an awesome Fugazi track.

Mp3:

Minor Threat - 'In My Eyes' Buy

Bad Brains - 'Pay to Cum' Buy

Fugazi - 'Bed For the Scraping' Buy