The Afterword

Musings on the byways of popular culture

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Coldplay…a strange band

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Watching them on Sky Arts at the moment recorded at Austin City Limits.

I can’t imagine too many here particularly like them and they’re definitely not cool, especially the geeky gawky gauche singer. But they do seem to enjoy being what they are, whatever that is, and don’t seem to care about “coolness,” whatever that is. Some good solid rock (ish) tunes and some weird almost tuneless pop ones. Not too keen on their styled look tbh but I find them…strange.

Shoot me down!

ATM: Guitar Tuners

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I’m contemplating treating myself to a new tuner, something I haven’t done in about 30 years or so and guess what, technology has moved on.

So, any recommendations? I don’t play much these days so it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. It’s for a bass, if that makes a difference. What on earth are those things that attach to the headstock…how do they work? I think they spoil the look of the guitar. And what about apps? Why isn’t life simple?

Thanks in advance etc

ATM : I’m going to be off work and immobile and bored soon.

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In a couple of weeks I’m due to have an operation on my knee that in all likelihood will lead to 6 weeks on crutches and off work . I have had the same op three years or so ago but that was in summer and I seem to recall there was some sort of major sports event on, possibly the Ashes, that helped fill my time.

So, bearing in mind that I’m going to struggle just to make a cup of tea and the weather will be unwelcoming, does the Afterword have any suggestions of anything that will occupy my time? I’m toying with the idea of having a good session on my bass guitar, providing I can sit comfortably with it, we have Netflix etc and I’ve just signed up to Spotify Premium.

Can you learn a language in six weeks these days for instance . I guess I’ll be doing a lot of reading too.

Any other thoughts?

Pottering

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I love pottering. I can potter all day. Stuff still gets done but in a slow relaxed way. The current weather helps with potterage…it’s an under appreciated art.

Anyone else like to potter?

It’s the new footie season!

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Well, for the Championship and Leagues 1 and 2 etc.

My team Ipswich has a new young manager, a host of new lower league signings plus some returning from long term injuries.

We’re everyone’s favourites for relegation. I’m quite excited!

PS The test match against India is fantastic!

The 2018 World Cup

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It’ll be here soon.

Are we bothered? How will WE do? Do we care anymore? What’s going on with the Germans (“You wouldn’t bet against them, Gary.”) Will Brazillian’s Hip Priest manager repair the nightmares of the 7-1? Will Panama do an Iceland?

More importantly, has anyone seen a decent wall chart yet?

https://youtu.be/_SLOWo3hCGk

ATM: Munich…or should I say, München.

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Morning all.

Last visited in 1989 but me and my best mate are having a long weekend there in July, arriving late on the Friday and leaving Monday.

Saturday evening is sorted as my mate has connections with OMD who just happen to be playing while we’re there.

I remember we went to Dachau all those years ago and would be keen to go again but would also be grateful for some lighter recommendations. We’re both pretty good at bimbling to be honest but we do like beer. And food.

Thanks in advance etc.