electric_ladyland

I think quite a few people at the Astoria enjoyed the Young Knives set last week (myself included). "No one here likes them?" - a humdrum, uninteresting numpty comment if I ever read one.

I used to live in East Oxford as a student, and still visit the Cowley road weekly for social activities and what not. What I'm finding rather disturbing is the general influx of chains and larger business’ into the area. Within the last six months two sandwich shops belonging to a chain which will remain unnamed have moved into the area (one opposite the now 'carling' approved zodiac), both without planning permission or consultation with local residents. The absorption of the zodiac into the academy chain just seems the latest sly encroachment of larger business into the area. On the music front, let’s just hope other venues pickup the cause of independent music with as much vigour as the zodiac has done for the last 11 years.

Followed Hefner for a few years, and a poster of the 'We Love The City' album cover has proudly hung in each of my student dwellings. Hopefully everyone will buy this, the band will reform, and we'll get the chance to see the live Hefner experience again.

This was a pulsating gig. Their b-sides were better than most bands A's, but the main set was my rock n roll moment of the year. Apologies to insect life, remember me, spirit of st louis....and penguins!

Heard this lot on the radio tonight, and got hold of their album soon after. Enjoyed it after one listen and methinks it is a grower. Unspectacular arrangements, though tight with infectious vocals. Taking a leaf out of the Violent Femmes book...