You know when life all seems worthwhile – when all the dross that happens doesn’t matter any more – when out of nothing something great happens. You know what I mean?
Now I know this doesn’t happen very often (especially to me) but last Friday as my dear wife and I were out shopping, I went to browse the albums in the local Virgin. I do this most weeks while we’re out – saves fighting with the SMB’s at the veg counter – and usually browse new releases hoping to see an album I like. Anyway last Friday was different. Last Friday I discovered Amplifier.
I saw the name of the band on the CD but it meant nothing – it was in the heavy metal section which does not normally make me want to investigate further. However, I saw the first song was called Motorhead and thought it be nice to hear how someone has covered one of Lemmy’s old songs. So I asked the assistant if I could hear the album on one of their listening stations – it wasn’t a cover it was an original song and for the next 30 minutes I just stood and listened to most of the album with a big huge stupid grin on my face.
I bought the two albums that were there (Insider is the name of their second album) and have listened to them all weekend – they are both excellent. The first album (it’s called Amplifier) is the better one but they both contain enough musical treasures to satisfy anyone who reads this.
It’s too late to make these my albums of the month so I’ll make Amplifier my album of the Season and I’ll make the band my discovery of the year so far – truly a great band.
So what’s the album like? I don’t know if I can do it justice yet – it’s just fantastic; as good as Siena Root (Different Realities) Porcupine Tree (The Incident) and Colour Haze (All) as good as any rock album I’ve heard in the past 10 years.
Listen to the sample tracks then go buy the albums (apologies to your bank manager)
On Off:
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Panzer:
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Procedures
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Hey Mr LD – sounds good if my bank manager lets me I will buy the first CD at weekend
I can’t think of where else to stick this comment, so here seems to be as good as anywhere.
It’s time to let you all in on one of the great hidden secrets of the 21st Century – ladies and gentlemen meet – Mr Quimbys Beard!!!!!!!!
If you think Hawkwind have become boring, repetitive and old, the rave scene died a death? Heavy metal taken over the rock scene? Lack of talent and ideas?
You need Mr Quimbys Beard;
I first encountered them about 5 years ago and my faith in space rock, psychedelia and all things weird and wonderful was restored. I have never looked back since, with one incredible exception, and that is to regret that no one else seemed to get the idea and due to a lack of interest, this incredible band folded a couple of years ago after only 4 CDs.
Now, I accept that my tastes may be somewhat um, out there at times. But this band just fitted the bill to a tee. I demand that a petition is raised to have this band elevated to the superstardom they deserve.
Mr D., Uncle RD, you are both going to fall in love with this band, so gather whatever stimulant you prefer, sit back and listen to this very, very loud:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LQ9Z-AfRwk
I’ve heard of Spocks Beard but not Mr. Quimbys – sounds interesting will explore some more thanks Spacey.
Not too many stimulants here about from vin rouge and hubbly bubbly
Aye definately give quimbys a go like. Spacey as owt, second to none, they just supported hawkwind and were awesome. X
Hi Weggy – and welcome to musicforthemonth.com
If you like Hawkwind you will be welcome here – what did you think of the gig?
Ha, excellent, magical, we have this post resurrected so it gives me a chance to rabbit on again about the Quimby’s, nice one Weggy.
I take it you seen them at Hawkfest? Mutter, mutter, mumble, I couldn’t go. I had heard that they were lined up for it and it very nearly persuaded me to pack the bags and head off for it. Unfortunately the boss and Mrs SP had other ideas (curses).
So, how were they ,apart from awesome? I assume they played all the old chestnuts, but any new songs, line up changes? Any word of any new releases, it is about time we had something else from them.
From your dialect I assume you are from the North east (Quimby homeland for those not in the know). Do they still play there these days?
Sorry for all the questions, but it is such a long time since I heard anything about them. Right this minute I have their set from Hawkfest 2003 on (very loud), what a fantastic band they really are/were.
Any news on them would be much appreciated.