Adventures in Birmingham: Live music at Six Eight Kafé

Those of you who know me on Twitter will have noticed I’ve been to every single Live Music Friday evening at Urban Coffee Co but now I’m delighted there’s a second coffee house to embrace one of life’s pleasures.

I’ve loved live music in coffee shops ever since I first saw a man and a guitar at a late night coffee shop in NYC in 2000 and have been trying to recapture the experience ever since. Whilst popular in America, I used to go to listen to music every Sunday in New York, the first I’d seen in the UK (I’m sure there have been others) was at Urban‘s first location. It’s not just about having someone play but the right type of ‘coffee shop’ music.

Country, folk and jazz all lend themselves to the acoustic vibe that works best. Many of us loved the gypsy/jazz band (I don’t know the name, the band didn’t carry any cards!) we saw at Six Eight Kafe on their first birthday so we begged the management to run more candle-lit nights in their gorgeously dark basement.

Last Wednesday was the first of those nights when we were treated to more live music. The first band had an excellent acoustic set up and performed a mix of original material with covers and harmonious vocals. There is something special about going to events in a dimly lit room. Perhaps because it smacks of the illicitism of the prohibition era and so feels like we’ve been invited to an exclusive underground event.

This and the amazing coffee that the Six Eight coffee gods seem to produce every time makes it an essential addition to the Birmingham calendar.

Coffee & music, two of my favourite things; more please.

Adventures in Birmingham: Afternoon Tea

After brunch, my favourite meal is Afternoon Tea. Not (Devon) cream tea, which is just scones with jam and cream and not ‘High Tea,’ a large meal with savoury and sweet delights which is served around 5-6pm, perhaps if you are going out for the evening – both of which I also love.

For someone who doesn’t drink tea and who thinks cake is an everyday essential, I still feel this refined British occasion between 3-5pm is a treat. In the last year, I have experienced the Afternoon Tea offerings of Hyatt Regency, Hotel Du Vin and most recently Mint Hotel. All have their good points, despite being very different in styles.

Hyatt Regency £19

I confess I have been here twice, firstly it was the second outing I ever organised for Out with the Girls (the first was a brunch) and then again for one of the girls’ birthdays. The first time was fantastic with the only imperfection they charged for every cup of tea (coffee) but they changed that when I asked; to pay for every little cup at Hyatt prices will mean more than double the cost of the meal. Secondly the price had gone up from what was on the website and what it was when I booked but again, they honoured the original price. That gives them a 9/10.

The Hyatt Regency, despite being extremely modern from the outside epitomises old school charm. The staff wouldn’t look out of place if they were frilly aprons and penguin suits and placed a bell for attention on each table. The food is exquisite in presentation and taste and now the coffee is bottomless, it’s as near perfect as you can get. Of course the sandwiches are sans crusts and cut in two bite portions as expected but the delightful mix of mini scones, bite size brownie cubes and creamy delights served on tiered cake trays is a slice of heaven arriving at your dreamy white linen draped table. 9½

 Hotel Du Vin £11

I wondered if Du Vin could pull it out of the tea cosy for almost half what the Hyatt charge. It’s an awful tag ‘boutique hotel’ but really, Du Vin is more traditional charm than the name suggests. I’d never even had a drink in the hotel bar (just in the pub or the conservatoire) so that fact they serve a delightful tea in a separate room of the bar is a find. We sat at a low square table surrounded by comfy sofas and chairs and watched dish after dish, pot after pot bought to us. It felt like high society in a bygone time. Nothing was too much trouble and the food and drink – no matter which tea – were in plentiful and ready supply.

Du Vin also wins out as they actually offer the cucumber sandwiches and the scones are soft enhanced by the perfect snowy cream. All the cakes were bite size temptations and a rest was needed before contemplating. There is nothing between these two other than price. It’s lovely to sit at a civilised table but it’s also lovely to take it in the drawing room, as it were. 9½ /10

City Inn, at the Mint Hotel £15

Both of these are hard acts to follow and the Mint is still at the aspiring stage. It’s modern so not my taste and perhaps that’s why I didn’t sit right in there but the scones were dry, the sandwiches weren’t exactly full, the cakes were dull (mini Victoria sandwich – big deal) and I had to ask very strongly (beg) for a pot of coffee whereas the tea came in a pot! The coffee did go cold in all three places and I think the only way to go is for staff to come round with top ups or have 1 cup cafetiere  that can be replaced with a fresh hot one.

We are also kept waiting despite being there on the dot; the people that came in after us got shown their table first and it would have been nice to have  a cosy table for two rather than be on the end of a long empty row. The meal needs work and I’m sure, knowing the staff there, they are striving to improve. 7/10

So where shall I go next?

Hyatt Regency

Mint Hotel

Hotel Du Vin

Birthday Celebrations

Michelin star food vs. good food

Urban flowers

On my actual birthday, I had the lovely treat of eating in the Tower Restaurant, whilst staying in the Tower Hotel, Lincoln. I’ve already reported the meal was amazing, one of the best I’ve had.

So when it comes to going to Purnells, with all its Michelin star glory, for my official birthday celebration, expectations are high. I’d already been there for my birthday last year and even when I booked it 8 weeks in advance, I had second thoughts as I that it could never eclipse the first experience.

It didn’t. In fact it didn’t match it. There’s nothing wrong with the food or the service this year but somehow it isn’t quite there. There are mutterings of certain foods being not quite perfect around the table, the service seems a touch arrogant compared to last year, I’m not sure if the fact that we were in the private room last year made a difference as we were treated like royalty then. Worst of all though, they didn’t explain that there was a set price for 3 courses so those of us who knew we couldn’t manage 3, opted for 2 but paid the same. I thought that was very presumptuous of them, given the ample opportunities to explain this to us during the ordering process. Why would anyone in their right mind only have 2 courses when they are paying for three – at Michelin star prices?

It’s a lovely meal, with even better company but both The Tower and Edmunds three weeks later easily eclipse Purnells.

Guinness cake, coffee made with love & flowers; the Urban birthday experience

Conversely, the next day is my Birthday Tea (coffee) in my regular Urban Coffee Co although last year was in the original Church Street, this year the newer Jewellery Quarter branch won out.

Urban, could not do enough; I walk in to see my ‘table’ laden with little pots of flowers, my favourite Guinness ‘birthday’ cake is on offer (not an Urban staple so bought in especially)  and there are already welcoming friends there. Quite an overwhelming but delightful afternoon.

The most thoughtful, handmade present

Enjoying good cake, coffee & company

Adventures in Birmingham: OxJam

Last year, OxJam was not only one of my best Birmingham discoveries but one of my favourite days of the year. Last year we caught a few soloists like Neil Ward but the highlight was city favourite Tom Peel at arguably the best venue, The Victoria.

So I am very much looking forward to this year although there are less ‘live music venues’ and more coffee shops. As you know, I love music in coffee shops but feel that should be an addition; we should still have premier venues such the Victoria. Having said that, compared to last year, I got to see a lot in the Yardbird this year; the much talked about Musgraves at the Yardbird were as good as I imagined – they sound so familiar in fact that I feel I have seen them before after all.

The Scholars were as good as I remember them from a This Burning Age gig after which, the schedule was thrown out because Free School had problems setting up their laptops (not rocknroll as we know it). When they were ready to perform, they put on masks which from where we were sitting spooked us out. Furthermore, the impact would have been greater had they come on wearing said masks rather than slipping them on on-stage in full view, but erm, interesting.

The planned highlight of my day is The Young Runaways. I’ve seen both their acoustic and regular sets before and feel it’s a treat to see both on the same day. The late afternoon set at Café Blend was excellent and the Yardbird set to launch the EP was equally good. Then they performed a hateful Beyonce number and I couldn’t see a hint of irony. They played another track after that but unfortunately I already had a bad taste in my mouth (and not from my first ever Ostrich burger from the hut outside which was actually OK).

All in all, OxJam is a fantastic idea and if I’m still in Birmingham, I hope the organisers book early and we get the Victoria back on the menu in 2012.

Kiss Me Cupcakes – Halloween special

Birmingham favourites, Kiss Me Cupcakes have done it again with their stunning Halloween cakes!

MintChoc graveyard

We also had the chocolate orange cake in the shape of a ghost! (see main photo). I’m not a big chocolate cake fan so this is possibly the first chocolate cake I’ve had from KMCC! Although I like orange and not mint, this one wonthe vote. It may have been that the ‘cross in the graveyard’ reminded us of Ozzy Osbourne!

Coconut

Coconut is in my top three favourite flavours and these seems to have coconut flakes in every bite including the delightfully minimal topping.

Ginger & Lime

Ginger is my top five flavours so to put it with lovely lime sounds divine! 

Adventures in Birmingham – Entertainment Heritage Walk

Entertainment Heritage Walk

I’ve lost count of how many ‘heritage walks’ I’ve now completed with the knowledgeable and witty Mr Ian Braisby but all have been enlightening and entertaining. The latest, on a sunny Sunday afternoon is to learn about Birmingham’s entertainment heritage.

Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Slade seemed to have played everywhere but we discover the old home of Snackerie. This is where bands in the 60s bands consumed  their pre and post gig unhealthy snacks and generally gossiped about evil promoters I suspect. Evidently a good place to pick up extra last minute gig bookings too!

I learn about Edward Fewtrell, ‘Mr Clubland’ from my earliest memories of my first time in Birmingham. I certainly recall a visit or two to Edwards bar around that time and the reputation Mr Fewtrell had. It’s interesting to hear of the story about an early Texas gig when they played at an Edwards club with a backdrop of a water leak! More so, I didn’t realise Edwards venues went back as far as the 1970s and that where Gala bingo behind New Street station is, was an upmarket cabaret style venue that hosted Tom Jones. Apparently it didn’t work in the early 1970s but with Ronnie Scott’s long gone, I’d love something like that in the city now.

On the theatre side Birmingham’s Theatre Royal on New Street (where Boots is now) is long gone but the gorgeous Hippodrome is flourishing and we learn of Laurence Olivier’s earliest performances at the still standing (old) Birmingham Rep.

We all know the history of the scrumptious once again, Electric being the oldest working cinema in the UK but did you know that the Cannon, formerly the Futurist around the corner was the first to have ‘talkies’? And that where Piccadilly Arcade is now was the Picture House and there was also the ABC cinema on New Street?

Crossroads is well known to have been filmed in Birmingham and we learn there was a famous wedding scene filmed at Birmingham cathedral that not only stopped traffic but received 22 million viewers – beat that x-Craptor! Later, TisWas was filmed in Birmingham launching the mainstream careers of Chris Tarrant (but why does he have a Broad Street star?!) and the eternally brilliant Lenny Henry. I learn my favourite building in Birmingham, the Alpha Tower at the edge of Broad Street was built for ATV, before it became Central Television. Nowadays all TV talk is of the Hustle being filmed on my doorstep whilst pretending it’s in London.

Discovering Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show came to New Street is indeed mind blowing but it’s two hours and towards the end of the tour when we get to Duran Duran, the reason for my coming to Brum in the first place. They are mentioned of course when we get to Broad Street, home of the Rum Runner Club where they first rehearsed and were subsequently managed by the owners.

Incidentally, the same place also hosted Dexy’s Midnight Runners and UB40 in the early years.

Who knew? There is so much more, book in on a tour here

For more information  www.midlandsdiscoverytours.co.uk  or chat on Twitter @ianbraisby or follow @MidsDiscovery

Adventures in Birmingham – Hornton Grange

Who knew this is hidden away on the grounds of the University of Birmingham?

As part of Venue Birmingham Hornton Grange is an impressive Edwardian building tucked away in leafy Edgbaston Park Road. The various venues have meeting rooms, conference and exhibition facilities as well as catering for weddings and celebrations but I only have one interest today; food. More specifically one of my favourite meals, Sunday lunch.

It may help that it is indeed a dazzling sunny afternoon with the proverbial clear blue sky (cue: ELO) but for starters, the setting is just perfect; two miles out of the big city and I could have been in any of the shires.  For starters, the staff are entirely courteous from the minute we walk in and in the main, the menu is more varied than most but offers exactly what it should, a traditional Sunday roast.

The drinks and starters are bought to us but I am left to my own devises at the carvery: BIG MISTAKE. The second mistake, the plates are HUGE. I try to limit my intake seeing as I know I eat half as much as normal people (but twice as often) but it looks so good and I’m a sucker for huge Yorkshire puddings. And stuffing.

The perfect-for-a-sunny-day Zinfandel Rose probably helps in some strange way but there is miraculously room for dessert; carrot cake with fresh creams, beautifully presented and served with a knowing smile, as in, ‘I know you won’t finish it but here you go.’

Couldn’t stand up afterwards but a fabulous Sunday lunch.

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Adventures in Birmingham – Music Mayhem

Supporting live/local music

I didn’t set out to break any records but if I did, it will be to hear as much live music as possible. Starting at my own event, Birmingham Vintage Fair to the end of Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival last Sunday, this is the lowdown:

June 25^th        Birmingham Vintage Fair

OK I booked them but I had not seen them live so I’m as impressed as everyone else:

Naked Remedy – does psychedelic blues describe them? Whatever, once I’ve got past how well the lead singer sings, while drumming, whilst keeping hold of the audience I realise this trio can make a lot of noise and all of it good, all of it original.

Dakesis - to bring the other side of the early 1970s in, this 5 piece pull together two electrifying sets incorporating some glam rock covers along with a couple of their own. All bought the house down & I ‘m particularly pleased when I see ‘20^th Century Boy’ on their set list. Ever since I saw other local favourites, The Whiskey Syndicate include it in their amazing set, it’s become a bit of an anthem in planning BVF. I’m looking forward to the fireworks they have in their real set!

June 28^th         The Actress & Bishop

??? who were they??!

Rebecca & The Roses – one to look out for.

Naked Remedy – again, because they were so good I couldn’t resist a little trip to my local venue to see them (just two of them) unveil their acoustic set. Yes they really do live in the 1970s, it wasn’t just for BVF and the acoustic set just as good with a little hint of gospel in the vocals. LOVE.

June 30^th         Hare & Hounds

Pharmatronik –  duo comprising guitarist & bassist/singer with a drum machine(?!), don’t get it but somewhat entertaining

Scholars – pretty darn good although they’re not local!

This Burning Age – LOVE LOVE LOVE – you already know how I feel so there’s nothing to add.

But I will anyway. It was a little special going to the shrine that is Hare & Hounds for the first time so I’m not sure if that bought the extra emotion, or just because I’m still in a post-BVF dream state or just because they’re that good.

Of all the gigs on this list, this is the only one I had to go out of town for. All the others are within walking distance proving there is so much in the city, I never need to leave it. Except for this lot, of course.

July 1^st                        Urban Coffee Co, Live Music Friday

Fingerprint – On the first Friday of each month, there is no need to miss live music at the local coffee house and this month it’s the entertaining duo Fingerprint. Always a pleasure to support ‘Live Music Friday’ but must I explain every month that we’ve come especially to hear the music?? Musicians always assume we are there for coffee/chat and they’re interrupting us. Have faith!

And now it’s on to a highlight of my year, Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival.

July 2^nd           Lord Clifden

Zingaros New Gypsy Tango (Argentina) A good start to ‘Jazz week’

 followed by:   Fredericks

New Orleans Jump Band (Spain) My first time in this relatively new place in my ‘hood. I saw these cats last year at Hotel Du Vin. They went on longer this time (past my midnight curfew) and demanded a bit too much (shouldn’t really require anything from your audience other than maybe, attention) but still extremely entertaining and a good spot for music.

3^rd                    Hotel Du Vin

Teens Jazz Band Velke Losiny (Czech Republic) Hotel Du Vin was last year’s highlight but this year, they’ve changed the rules and there is no table service and no bar food. Plus, unless you get a seat by the stage, you have to look across Sunday lunch diners to see the band. For me, a formal meal and watching a band just do not mix. A good band though.

4^th                    Urban Coffee – JQT

Will Scott (USA) – A first for live music in Urban JQ and it works plus it’s standing room only; pretty good for 4pm on an admittedly steamy Monday afternoon. It has to be an American singer/song writer for Fourth of July and one that sings bluesy country – perfectly.

5^th                          Lord Clifden

Will Scott (USA) – he is so good in fact that we go back to see Mr Scott the next day doing a full gig. This is the highlight of the week; supported ably in the promotion and backing singer stakes by the lovely Jan Bell who somehow manages to spot the country fan in me and gives me her details too, when we line up at the back of the queue to buy CDs.

Three sets, one encore and the crowd still want more of the stories in between each song. Value for money, particularly as it’s free.

6^th                    Lord Clifden

Brooks Williams (USA/UK) - the second of our three nights residency at Lord Clifden and an even bigger crowd for two fantastic bluesy sets from this USA born, UK based guitarist.

7^th                    CBD Food Festival & Lord Clifden

Lewis Floyd Henry (UK) – both times late, both times disappointing and yet still the crowd applaud him. There is none of the chat between tracks we’d gotten used to. They really shouldn’t quote Hendrix in his profile.

8^th                    Waters Edge, BrindlyPlace

Djabe (Hungary)- the first time I make the live music at the bandstand and these guys are perfect for outdoors music.

9^th A night off!

10^th                  Hotel Du Vin

Bourbon Street Stompers (Germany) – we save one of the best to last. A full jazz band from Germany with plenty of action and patter to keep us going– who knew? Another highlight and a fitting end to my week of Jazz & Blues.

For each act I’ve seen, I’ve felt as though I have travelled around the world and through time, from New Orleans and Memphis to the 1920s and 1960s. I feel mightily blessed to have all this right on my door step.

16 artists, 16 days, 13 gigs

Right, what’s the next fest, OxJam?

Birmingham Vintage Fair – review

June 25^th 2011

Photos by rhys@photomaestro.co.uk

The idea came when I became frustrated by the lack of an event to showcase local, creative talent and that gives these

Photos by rhys@photomaestro.co.uk

people an opportunity to sell their products. There are vintage fairs of course but they are just vintage. I love vintage but I also adore having lots of unique, quirky things in my house. I take great joy in finding something I want to buy and then find it’s created or sold by a local person. Whereas national events display the wares of many people who travel to Birmingham to do business, my dream was to build business for local traders of vintage, new, handmade, home wares or arts – anything goes if it fits the vibe, in the style of 24 Carrots Farmers Market.

However, those who know me will know I won’t do anything by halves (my Daddy didn’t raise me that way!) and will always make it different. I don’t see the point of replicating what’s already around. The first thing I need when planning an event is a theme – I can’t even plan a brunch for 4 without a theme! – and as the 1970s are having a rare moment in the spotlight, this is an easy decision. From this came the most important element for a festival atmosphere, the music followed by the imagery (yellow backed by a kaleidoscope of clashing colours; purple, orange and brown) dress and food.

What transpired after months of planning and research were launched as BVF, onto a few select people back in April is beyond my wildest dreams. Word spread like More Cocoa’s hot chocolate spilling over strawberries and everyone from 24 Carrots to the Jewellery Association and Handmade Birmingham to the traders is promoting it.

The highlights for me as an organiser is the community vibe the BVF evoked and how so many people made an effort to get into the 1970s easy going spirit. Every trader, photographer, film maker, organiser and many visitors made this event a success with Twitter playing a massive part.

As an observer, what made it for me was the music; I feel truly blessed to have both Naked Remedy and Dakesis perform at the (first) BVF and more than that, just to know about both bands that I’m now so looking forward to seeing again.

Maybe this is what heaven’s like? I had my music, cakes, coffee, clothes and my friends and family; everything I need.

I’d love your comments and feedback.

Photos by rhys@photomaestro.co.uk

Adventures in Birmingham 21st May 11

Ordinarily, I write this 1. when I have time and 2. when I’ve had an extra fun-packed week. In this instance, it’s just one day.

The third weekend on of the month is usually my favourite as more often than not. It starts perfectly on the Friday with what I call my coffee morning, Likemind. On Farmers Saturday, a new tradition is forming with late breakfast (well late for everyone else, normal for me) at Urban on  although it’s very hard to get down to normal Saturday book writing when the delights of 24 Carrots is right outside.

I have added a new regular order to the hot chocolate, cupcakes and coffee – flowers. Just because I don’t (can, but won’t) cook, I can still buy something from the vegetable stand!

Today there is an extra treat as there are special open days at the studios of several talented local jewellers, all part of Open Studios 2011. We loved the new jewellery (and I’m not a big jewellery person, just cannot leave the house without ear-rings & sometimes a necklace is called for) but I do have a huge collection. So there is no justification for buying, despite us seeing gorgeous collections designed by Becca Williams and all the Centrepiece designers. 

After all this excitement, there’s not much time to get ready for my second social outing out of the city centre this year, for my first visit (well first since this habitation in Brum) to the Mac, conveniently placed right by the also convenient Number One bus stop. Before I go in, I note the Edgbaston Cricket Ground refurbishment is coming along nicely; another thing Birmingham is proud off.

Reykjavik, mentioned by a few people on Twitter, is indeed worth seeing. The official description mentions something about a love story taking us through the Icelandic capitol. I can only describe it as a bonkers performance, where we, the audience participate. I mean full participate with costume, lines and movement; we literally move with the performance. It’s a very clever show indeed.

Not as remarkable as the next day’s finale of the English premier football league season, however.

Adventures in Birmingham: 24 Carrots Farmers Market

For you out of towners, 24 Carrots is the very local Farmers market in my neighbourhood, the Jewellery Quarter.

I was first introduced to it at @Likemind (via Twitter) and then as I was recommended the Bolivian coffee from Beans and Leaves by Katy, I go along. Not being a cook (I can cook but won’t cook) I have no need for carrots unless they come chopped and ready flavoured via St Michael, the patron saint of food. I do however, have a regular need, or at least desire for coffee.

My catalyst for my first visit though comes via an invitation from Kiss Me Cup Cakes. I figure if they’re there, there’s at least one more thing for me to buy that isn’t a vegetable.

The surprise when I get to the Big Peg (now that I know that this is a building and not a giant sculpture of something that pins clothes up) is there is not a hint of carrot but plenty of cakes, every type of coffee you could wish for as well as jams from the wonderfully named Mr & Mrs Preserve. Nowadays the vegetable stall is a refreshing regular – and it sells carrots of the orange kind rather than precious metal.

Since then, I have persuaded many regulars who I now meet up with and introduce to my regular fixes:

I’ve not been a fan of hot chocolate (not a big eater of chocolate, not because I don’t like it but because it’s one vice I can live without). However, a year down the line I find myself addicted to this hot chocolate. It all started as there was never a coffee around but now that my regular home-from-home Urban Coffee have finally arrived in the Quarter, I still choose the chocolate on 24 Carrot occasions, due to loyalty, tradition but also because it’s irresistible. I still don’t drink hot chocolate at any other time.

Next up is a chat and regular order of Kiss Me Cupcakes, vanilla & lemon, but many more if I’m due to visit any friends in the next 24 hours. Then it’s seeing what new delights Beans & Leaves and Mrs Preserve have on their stalls, I go with whatever they recommend and it’s always great. Most definitely there’ll be some hot samosas to pick up and quite often fresh eggs and gorgeous beeswax candles in primary colours on the same stall.

If needed I’ll buy some detectable flavours of cheese from the lovely ladies on Vee’s Deli. Of course you can decide on the famous carrots, pies, ready-made meals, honey, bread, homemade toiletries and much more. If we’re lucky, there’s some great music to keep us entertained which guarantees I stay for a second hot chocolate.

24 Carrots has become an institution in the Quarter. Come and say ‘hi’ if you’re going, we’re normally hovering between Kiss Me Cupcakes and More Cocoa for most of the time.

Rhinestone Cowgirl

Rhinestone Cowgirl has a mission:

To travel the world and trawl the internet and find you the loveliest, prettiest, comfiest things for your home.

I love finding old stuff that has been trashed and making it look shiny and new, better than ever. I know you will give this unique product product pride of place in your home!

After all, one person’s trash is your treasure!

Read more

Adventures in Birmingham: Cherry Ghost

Adventures in Birmingham: Cherry Ghost live at the Glee Club, Birmingham

In case you and I have never communicated, this is to let you know it’s my third time seeing Cherry Ghost, third time since they released their second album last July in fact.

I was already considering them for current BBITW* when their first album was released but I was in America then and this is the first touring stint I managed to leap on.

So I saw them in July just after the release, supporting the eternally wondrous the Coral to boot but unusually in the sit down, toe-tapping theatre style of Alexandra Theatre. Then in their own right at the more suitable O2 Academy and now in what doesn’t look good on paper but actually is an ideal live music venue, the Glee Club.

Ideal because the stage is in the middle of the widest wall in the room so a lot more people can get up close and personal. Actually even though I stood my usual minimum 6, maximum 10 rows back, I felt a little too close to the band; I don’t like seeing the whites of their eyes or indeed making eye contact. So I don’t mind when two people stood in front of me slightly blocking my perfect view. It’s not ideal because I stop myself thinking of those Pesky Glee Kids© ruining all the tracks I hold dear.

So the band are at their best, the venue perfectly suited, if a bit of a trek for me to get to and it appears to be a sell-out.

So why doesn’t it feel right?

The support, Driver, Drive Faster set us up nicely even if they are a little too melancholy and samey, the crowd melt into the front of the stage and the toilets are clean (not a huge factor but a nice touch).

Cherry Ghost are on top form, fairly chatty and their excellent musicianship is for all to see, particularly as it’s very light on the stage. I can only think that it’s just an odd venue, the crowd are not as enthusiastic as at the O2 or indeed at the Alexandra. I can count the ones who know all the songs on one hand and that includes me and the audience seem a lot older. Perhaps that’s what it is; it’s not the usual mix of students that I’ve seen previously. Certainly there was no-one I recognised in the crowd so that’s a first.

Anyway, none of that detracts from what is another mesmerising performance from the Ghosters and I for one will see them as many times as possible in these lovely intimate venues before they start having to perform at large soulless arenas.

9/10

Likelihood of seeing them again 10/10

*Best band in the world

More about Cherry Ghost

Comedy – Lenny Henry: From Cradle to Rave

As with Jonathan Ross, I have grown up with Lenny Henry being part of my life. So why I have waited two decades to see him I have no idea. I don’t remember him specifically winning New Faces, back when talent shoes were about talent, but I do recall it being essential family viewing, back when there were all only three channels and one TV.

However, when this show was suggested to me way back last autumn, I knew instantly it was the must see. This show, you see, is about Lenny’s love of music.

A few of us trundled along to see this and we sat across over 2 rows. (I never understand why groups sit in one long line? Whereas we’re not going to talk to each other we can exchange knowing glances and prods.) We’d booked the tickets so long ago, we’d almost forgotten so it’s a lovely surprise to be walking out on a Monday evening as winter closes down to go and spend 2 hours in the company of the funniest men I’ve ever seen.

The whole of Alexander Theatre was laughing as soon as Mr Henry walked on the set, I don’t think he’d even uttered a word. I know we are in for a wondrous evening during which there is no heckling, no picking on the audience and barely a one-liner. Just Lenny’s chat about growing up with music is enough to amuse us which just goes to show (and as much as I find comics like Frankie Boyle funny) there’s not always a need.

As if the trip through memory lane with loads of fantastic tunes that had us chair dancing wasn’t enough, the encore was a show in itself; Lenny the musician comes on with a band and does an actual set, complete with James Brown gyrations.

A superb night of entertainment enjoyed by all.

9/10

Smile factor 10/10 (think this is a first)

Urban – Too busy by far

More than a handful of times I’ve gone into Urban, my almost daily coffee shop and in the last few weeks, not been able to get a seat.

Two Saturdays in a row I’ve popped in, not seen a seat and walked out, which is such a pain when I’ve walked all the way with my little laptop which I then I have to carry around me while I a) run errands b) do my M&S shop and then try to find a seat somewhere else.

I thought with two Urban coffee shops now open this would not happen but it’s actually got busier in both!

Of course it’s all my own doing.

When I was a mere young thing, I’d get into the latest band, tell everyone how great they are and I’m thrilled when everyone else recognises their talent. Next thing I know, everyone else has discovered them, bought their records and I see Orange Juice on Top of the Pops. Then their records start selling out and I have to get to the shop first thing in the morning to be in with a chance of bagging one.

It’s a bit like that.

Mentoring Amita

Last time, I had the pleasure of introducing you to Jemima, a psychology turned marketing student, who is about to embark on a new part time role as Marketing manager for Identity Drama School Read More

Adventures in Birmingham – December 18th 2010

Although there is still a week left, this week, everyone has truly got into the Christmas Spirit.

Wednesday

Urban Christmas party

The Urban Coffee Co Christmas Party was a fabulous evening with a great band.

It was surprising to see so many faces from around town. Actually, not that surprising as I’d pretty much invited everyone I met but it’s lovely to see everyone let their hair down in any case. Oh, that was just me letting my hair down? Well in my mind if you can’t add a bit of sparkle to your tree at Christmas when can you?!

It was unfortunate that the band finished before 9pm as a lot of people went then, as had the look-too-good-to-eat mini KissMe Cupcakes  But somehow a few us managed to sink a few more beers listening to our Christmas favourites as ‘spun’ by the very accommodating DJ who stayed till the end.

Friday

Urban JQ

It took me all week to make my virgin voyage to new Urban and now I have fallen in love with it all over again. (See My Perfect Coffee Shop would be…)

 

Brum Notes / Speech Fewapy Christmas Party at The Victoria

A fantastic idea to have four (great, as it turns out) bands at what’s now become one of my favourite places in the city.

We meet at Cafe Blend around the corner mainly so I can get my first fix of eggnog of the season, which will probably turn out to be my only fix as no-one else appears to offer it.

I’m glad we got into the Vic soon after 8 as your favourite and mine, Tom Peel was already on and delivered his usual entertaining set; half tunes/half anecdotes and joshing the audience. I can’t wait to see him again.

Next up is Greg Bird & Flamingo Flame who is electro and swaying synths. I hear electro is making (another) comeback. Not sure if that’s just the Pet Shop Boys saying it or if its because of the re-emergence of OMD, Heaven 17 and The Human League.

And then we had two bands Cajole Cajole and The Traps,  the headliners being especially polished. All are worth seeing again so I will follow @BrumNotes with interest to see where they may pop up again.

Saturday

The week was meant end triumphantly with a load of us going to the Christmas Farmers Market, 24 Carrots at JQT.

And then the snow happened, un-forecast may I add.

I’ve been so looking forward to this as after our look round the regular stalls, for the first time we will have a coffee shop to go into rather than stand around and chat in the cold.

It didn’t stop me hiking up whilst snow is literally coming at me to at least buy some Christmas Kiss Me cupcakes I wanted for my best friend.

Thank heavens Urban did open in time so the stall holders had hot drinks and I had somewhere to dive for cover.

Bless the organisers for putting it together and for three stalls for braving inches of snow to set up. I was gutted not to have my now traditional hot chocolate but we’ll be back in the new year to patronage you all!

Merry Christmas everyone!

See you in 2011 for more Adventures in Birmingham.

My experience of mentoring in Birmingham

I’m asked to mentor a University of Birmingham student in the summer at which time things are generally quieter for me. Schools and colleges are mostly unavailable and the business world is enjoying a succession of holidays. So my life consists mainly of writing which is no bad thing.  Read more, as published by CharityZine

50+ things to make me smile in Birmingham at Christmas

• Seeing young children buying Christmas presents for their parents
• Shops and offices that KEEP CHRISTMAS IN DECEMBER (Still searching for that one)
• Twinkling lights on cranes and tall buildings
• Festive decorations on big trucks
• Christmas lights switch on nights
• Watching the delight on kids faces at lights switch on nights
• Hearing my favourite Christmas tunes on the radio for the first time this year
• Spending December seeing as many friends and family around the country as possible (this year from Chester to Devon and lots in between)
• Finding out about nice people giving to the less fortunate
• Finding out about the less fortunate giving to the less fortunate
• Hearing about people having good news in time for Christmas (new job, new house, new baby, new book deal)
• The sight of pure, virgin snow in the grounds of a quiet church
• Deciding on my Christmas theme (this year; silver representing a sparkling future)
• Turning on the lights on my Christmas tree after its newly decorated
• Tweaking the decorations on the tree for several days afterwards until it’s perfect
• Coming home and remembering the tree is up!
• Writing my Christmas cards, with the tree lights twinkling whilst watching an old Christmas film
• An excuse to look into people’s houses who have Christmas trees
• Hearing a choir singing carols in the distance
• Eggnog (or gingerbread) latte. The only time I drink that milky stuff all year.
• Having an evening devoted just to wrap presents
• Christmas loo rolls
• Watching someone open a present I know they’ll love
• The best excuse to light candles (other than a power cut)
• A genuine looking Santa
• A black Father Christmas (only in New York)
• Christmas coffee although no idea what makes it festive
• The Christmas spirit; people being extra nice to each other and strangers exchanging smiles
• Indulging in having Christmas films on the idiot lantern despite having seen them dozens of times already – this year
• Birmingham Handmade markets
• Birmingham German Markets
• Going past the best decorated house in the street
• Breaking into song when I’m with my (20 something) niece when we hear ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ as per our years-old tradition
• Christmas Top of the Pops
• Watching repeats of vintage Christmas TV specials
• Every time I hear the Waitresses ‘Christmas Wrapping’, my all time favourite Christmas tune
• Receiving cards and emails from people I had long forgotten
• Watching men buying Christmas presents in the 36 hours before the big day because 52 weeks’ notice wasn’t quite enough
• A log fire
• A log cabin
• Taxis with a miniature Christmas tree on the dashboard
• Buying a ‘for a baby’s first Christmas’ card
• Buying random cards just for fun, mainly in America i.e. ‘to my hairdresser’ (yes really)
• Stocking up on M&S festive goodies to take to all the welcoming homes I visit over the season
• Any excuse to eat more food (via @ellastella )
• Not working as hard as I do for the other eleven months of the year
• Starting afresh in cold, harsh, January, in gorgeous anticipation of what the next year will bring
• The smell of Christmas
• The Urban Christmas party (although that’s not until Dec 17th) (Note to Simon: you’re not 49 on the list, it’s random)
• Hearing that my flight is ready to depart to somewhere cold on Christmas Eve for a well earned break

Now it’s your turn; what’s guaranteed to make you smile at Christmas? I’d love to add your ideas to the list so please add to the comments below.

Additions:

From Paul Hanna:

No 51 Christmas fragranced bleach
Is there anything that can’t be made better by having a christmassy makeover?

From Mary:

52. Christmassy fragranced candles

53. Homemade, handmade gifts are so much better than shop bought

54. Smell of baking!

55. Mulled wine

56. Walking around the markets searching for unique gifts.

57. Cuddling up on the sofa under warm fleecy blankets watching christmas films.

58. A glass of Baileys

59. Spending time with family and friends

LuvDrop or Internet dating

Dating in the City

Birmingham  daters, which do you prefer?

 

 

 

 

♥       You’ll know that the people coming to LuvDrop are single; the rest is all there to be discovered

•  Online, you know all their likes and dislikes and have already made up your mind about them

♥        With face to face meetings, you meet the true personality with no place to hide

• With internet dating you will only read the person’s CV and that’s just what they want you to know

♥        At LuvDrop events, you may find yourself liking someone who on paper would have been on you ‘no’ list

• With internet dating you will reject everyone that doesn’t conform to your wish list

More about Luvdrop

Would like to meet: The truth about internet dating

As published in the Independent

Internet dating may be all rainbows in the adverts, says Rhodri Marsden. But the truth is that many more hearts are broken than matches made

In 1966, The Supremes explained to us that you can’t hurry love. Sixteen years later Phil Collins concurred: “You just have to wait,” he sang, additionally noting that love don’t come easy. Those words of wisdom still apply, and particularly so if you’re one of those participating in the seemingly eternal worry-go-round of internet dating. 

The adverts for such services, featuring blissfully happy couples pushing each other on swings, would have us believe otherwise. eHarmony likes to stress how many members get married as a result of being matched via the service (236 every day, according to data gathered in the US in 2008.) Match.com did a survey last year indicating that an impressive 58,500 people found a partner on the site over a 12-month period – and they still offer a six-month guarantee of “finding love”, albeit underlined (understandably) by a 500-word list of conditions.

And we’re suckers for all this. When Time Out magazine recently ran a cover story offering free online dating for every reader, it was dangling a huge metaphorical carrot. We all want to be loved, after all.

But you rarely hear from those who, having failed to find a partner online, back away from the computer shaking their heads at the way the process distorts social conventions and leaves you slightly shell-shocked. Those 58,500 lucky members of match.com were vastly outnumbered by the 286,000 unlucky ones. Yes, anecdotes of hair-raising internet dates have become dinner-party staples – you know, like “he turned up wearing a toolbelt and immediately burst into tears” – and many were collected in a book published earlier this year. But what about the mental strain? The plunge in self-esteem when your ideal partner remains as elusive as a taxi on New Year’s Eve?

A quick disclosure: I have a couple of dating profiles online. It’s not going that well. But this isn’t therapy masquerading as a self-pitying article by some bloke in his late-thirties – well, not much, anyway. I’ve got a number of friends and acquaintances who share my feelings about the way online dating plays fast and loose with your emotions.

These people are relatively undamaged and sane, without many skeletons in their cupboards. Some of them are model-like in their beauty, rapier-like in their wit or both. All of them have approached internet dating with the most honourable of intentions: they’re lured by the promise of romance, be it jazz and croissants on Sunday morning, or leaping out of a plane strapped to someone nice. Whatever.

They’d just like somebody, but somebody hasn’t shown up.The search for love in any context is a lottery, of course. The odds are stacked Jenga-like against us. What are the chances of two compatible people turning up in the same place at the same time? Internet dating is meant to tip those odds in our favour – and it can work, of course it can. But the people I’ve spoken to who’ve been bruised by it are unanimous as to why that happened. They believe it’s a problem inherent to the process. So if you’re doing it, and you’re feeling down, don’t worry. It’s not you.

Well, it might be. But it most likely isn’t.Adam: “It’s blackly comic: we all say we’re fun-loving, up for a laugh, just seeing how things go – when everyone knows that we’re all on a dating site because, to varying extents, we’re lonely.”Internet dating pivots around profiles; lists of attributes, paragraphs where you attempt to make yourself sound appealing, a handful of flattering photographs. But there’s already a problem. Dozens of books and websites offer advice on how to write profiles; third-party services even charge 40 quid to save you the bother.

As a result, the uniformity is hilarious. Everyone loves travelling, particularly to Machu Picchu – which, if the profiles are to be believed, is an Inca site swarming with thousands of backpacking singletons. Men are singularly obsessed with skiing. All of us love to curl up on the sofa with a bottle of wine and a DVD (or a VD, as one unfortunately misspelled profile said).The vernacular of online dating makes everyone sound the same. Rather than reflecting what we’re like, it reflects what we think other people want – because we’re trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Men will lie about their height, men and women will lie about their age, some people even upload photos of other people and pretend it’s them. It doesn’t correlate with real life.

And once you realise this, internet dating suddenly feels as random as approaching strangers in a car park and asking them if they fancy you. Which, believe me, is never a good idea.

Ruth: “I don’t want someone like me. Why on earth would I want someone like me?”Searching for a partner online has inevitable similarities to searching for a product. Computer algorithms have the herculean task of returning a perfect match from its database based on our own vaguely truthful submissions, and such copper-bottomed compatibility guarantees as whether both parties are fond of cats.Our natural impulse, encouraged by the way these websites work, is to seek people who like the same things as us. But while I wouldn’t want to date someone who gets a kick out of attending far-right political rallies, it’s certainly true that opposites can attract. I went out with a wonderful woman for seven years who loved Barbra Streisand. I can’t stand Babs. In a relationship these kind of things aren’t an issue, but internet dating makes them into one. After all, when I meet someone in real life that I like, I tend not to say, “Hi, I’m Rhodri, and here’s a list of food I don’t like eating.” The rules of attraction are just too complex to be held in a database and analysed by a computer.

Thomas: “The idea that someone likes to spend weekends mountain biking or, I dunno, shaving lions – that’s the kind of thing that would send me up the nearest bell tower with a sniper rifle.”But we’re forced to filter the mass of potential datees, and we do it savagely. We start to adopt a power-shopping mentality, disregarding people for arbitrary reasons; as my friend Sam put it, we cruise past people’s pictures as if they’re caravans in Daltons Weekly. “Yeah, no, no, yeah – ooh, yes! – no, no, ugh.” It’s a compelling, but ultimately exhausting, process that these services have adapted, refined and streamlined because it’s a brilliant way for them to make money. While a service might lure you with a strapline saying “Meet sexy singles in your area”, the truth is more like, “Reject perfectly decent singles in your area while waiting for the maddeningly elusive sexy ones.” Everyone is trading off current opportunities against future possibilities. In a thoughtful moment, you might even realise there are people you’ve had relationships with in the past who, if they appeared as an online match, you might reject. And when you’re the one being rejected, it can hurt.

Charlotte: “It’s a brutalising process. You join thinking you’ll be nice and civilised and honest with people, but once people don’t reply to your emails, you start doing the same to other people.”Rejection may be a strong word to use. It doesn’t approach the horror of being told by a partner that they don’t love you any more. But despite our inclination to present ourselves as optimistic – verging on an almost deranged bubbliness, in some cases – we enter the process on the back foot. We’re not part of a couple, and we may have hang-ups about our attractiveness. Suddenly, every unreciprocated gesture hurts way more than it should. Unreplied-to messages sit in the “sent” folder as a grim reminder of your failure to connect with someone, almost prompting you to fire off another message saying “What’s the problem? What’s wrong with me?” So we have to develop a thick skin. But, you know, having a thick skin is overrated. Thin skin is just fine. It’s just that thin skin isn’t compatible with internet dating.

Francesca: “It’s also a horrible feeling knowing that there are potentially a lot of other people in competition with you. It’s like being in a deck of Top Trumps cards – what are my stats? What is it about me that might or might not trump someone else?”If you live in a city, the seemingly inexhaustible array of potential beaus strewn across these websites is part of the appeal. But that very abundance is also why the rapid cycle of rejection can feel so disheartening.

“Plenty more fish in the sea” isn’t just a well-meaning phrase uttered by a kindly relative after you’ve been dumped. Internet dating presents you with rock-solid evidence. Thousands of them, right there, smiling at you. (Except me. I’m kind of glumly staring at you, which may be one of the reasons why I haven’t done so well.)Long-term internet dating participants know only too well, however, the cycle of knock-back followed by a speedy return to the site in search of someone else. You start seeing the same faces across multiple sites, and some people (especially men) will start to play the percentage game, firing off multiple cut-and-paste emails in the hope that someone will reply. One friend of mine was even sent a cheery message of introduction from a man who she had already had a disastrous date with via another dating website. 

Richard: “But you getthat thrill when someone responds. For a short time you’re on top of the world – and that’s followed by a low point. It’s like a fast-working drug with a terrible come-down.” It’s an addictive process, there’s no doubt about it. There are a couple of reasons for this. One is the burst of elation associated with a stranger suddenly deciding that you’re attractive, amusing, a good prospect. New members on these sites receive a flood of attention that can be exhilarating. As one friend said to me, there was a time when she felt like the most popular woman in the country. After a while, though, you develop a more realistic view of the thing. You realise that, for example, the match.com “guarantee” isn’t so much a guarantee as a hard-headed business decision based on probability and likely cost. But the knowledge that it’s working out for some 17 per cent of members brings hope, and makes you loath to pack it in.The other undeniable reason: with options dwindling as you get older and friends start families, giving up on internet dating feels like giving up on love altogether. But sticking at it can seem to reinforce your single status.

Sarah: “Internet dating is essentially a lot of single people, of varying degrees of loneliness, blundering around with their arms out hoping to bump into someone.” Sarah’s right. In that sense, it’s not much different to real life. It’s the usual random process of love-seeking, but cleverly tarted up with psychometric testing and percentage matching and with a monthly fee slapped on it. I suppose it works out cheaper than going out every night and keeping your fingers crossed. But if it’s not working for you, do take heart from me – and from Thomas, Pip, Catherine, Charlotte, Matthew, Steph, Sian, Francesca, Sam, Vanessa, Richard, another Richard, Jane, Adam, Juliet, Tim, Michelle, Sarah, Courtney, Michael, Helen, Vicki, Claire, Saj, Juliet, Stuart and Ruth, all of whom contacted me to get their feelings off their chests.We’re not bitter. If anything, recognising the improbability of finding the perfect internet date makes participating a lot easier. In fact, we’re all magnificently well-adjusted. Maybe I should start trying to match us all up…

Adventures in Birmingham: the Birthday

Happy Birthday to me

Before the birthday trip to Milan came two celebrations with friends:

Sunday afternoon tea

I invited my local friends to join me at Urban Coffee Co for coffee & cake, drinks & snacks and fun & frolics to kick start my birthday celebrations.  What I didn’t expect was for Urban to go beyond the call of duty; decorating my reserved table with confetti and balloons and getting in Guinness cake although they just managed to save me a slice as it was snapped up before we got there! (my traditional birthday drink is Black Velvet; Guinness and champagne).

There was the birthday cupcake personalised with my name (Courtesy of Kiss Me Cupcakes) and best surprise of all there was Rich the pianist, my favourite (so far) of all the Urban entertainers. He was meant to be away and I was told there was no way he would make it. Now that’s the type of surprise that puts a smile on a birthday girl’s face.

Kiss Me Cupcakes pulled out the stops too by providing me with canapé size cupcakes decorated with my requested dolly mixtures and love hearts.

We had the most perfect, completely chilled afternoon.

How lucky am to know Kiss Me Cupcakes and to have the honour of Rich playing for my birthday. Big thanks to the ever wonderful host, Becks and Alan and all at Urban. “Where everybody knows your name” ♫♪

One Michelin star ♥♥♥♥♥

Two days later a select group of us head into Purnells for a birthday dinner. We have the private room so feel more like royalty than perhaps we normally would, although I wouldn’t know as I’ve saved my first visit to Purnells for a special occasion.

We make the effort to dress for the occasion, the occasion being my birthday rather than a Tuesday evening at Purnells.

The staff for their part give the 100% perfect service we have come to expect. Truly amazing

Two days later, I’m on a flight to Milan.

Now, what shall I do next year……….any ideas?

LuvDrop or Speed dating?

 

↓ You have to stop talking to someone even if you like them and by the time you see them next time, they’ll be talking to someone else

♥  You can talk to someone all night with LuvDrop. There is no timer on you.

↓  Host is there to seat you, administrate the evening and make you pair off

♥  Hosts are there for you; to make  introductions, to help you feel comfortable and confident

↓ Anyone can go to speed dating events, un-vetted, single or not

♥  LuvDrop host invitation only events for members who have applied to join

↓ You have to exchange numbers there and then if you want to see anyone again. Everyone at speed dating will know numbers get exchanged so no-one will feel special

♥  If you’re don’t want to hand over your phone no straight away, you can email another member later – or we can get in touch for you

More info about LuvDrop: Dating in the City

Adventures in Birmingham: OxJam Oct 16th 10

OxJam: Takeover

Today I finally participate in an OxJam event; the OxJam Takeover

“40 bands, 6 venues, 1 great cause”

Still relatively new to Birmingham and not knowing many fellow musos, the £4 advanced ticket enables me to sell the idea to some of my new friends. Surprised but delighted that all 5 of my spare tickets are snapped up we meet at the Yardbird to collect our ’bracelets’ and listen to the first band whilst standing in gorgeous October sunshine.

I was keen to visit the Flapper as I’d heard it was a great little live venue. Apart from my request to see Tom Peel at the Victoria later, we all agree to go with the flow and haven’t bothered to read up on any of the bands beforehand.

We are told on entering the Flapper the first band is ‘quite rocky’ and as they set up on stage, I feel they have the look. Had we done our homework, one of our group wouldn’t have had a near heart attack as they launch loudly into their set. Scouting for Girls are ‘quite rocky’ Soni-quella are some kind of metal. I’m happy with most types of metal but not the kind where vocals are barked and not sung but that’s just me. The music is good and they seem like a nice bunch of young boys.

We then have a little folksy reprieve across the road at The Prince of Wales with Mike Smith although I don’t think they really know OxJam is going on before we head across town to some poetry (Jodi Ann Bickley) at Cafe Blend. Neil Ward, the soloist that follows is great and I melt comfortably into my chair give his tunes due attention. It is a shame only a few can actually see the stage but it is good place to hear some soft tunes and you know I’m a big fan of live music in coffee shops.

Of course all day I’m looking forward to seeing my first live music at the Victoria and more particularly Tom Peel. I’m pleased to catch the last couple of tracks from Savant beforehand but Mr Peel did live up to the hype and creates the highlight of the day. A few of us have been out since 24 Carrots Farmers market at JQT this morning so we don’t make it to Island Bar but I’ve been there before anyway. Today is about giving us a taste of a few more of Brum’s little live venues.

More OxJam takeovers please, next time they’ll be 12 of us. At least.

LuvDrop Membership

What your membership means

• Invitations to exclusive LuvDrop events
• As a member you can email other single members
• Every event will have two hosts to introduce you to other members and make you feel comfortable
• Qualify for the rewards scheme that repays your loyalty
• Invitations to special city social events

and so much more