I was turned on to this during the first lockdown (ah, remember that endless spring?). It’s a series of YouTube clips that are essentially dash cam footage of someone (a not especially well-known rapper called Ogmios) driving round London and describing what he sees. Might not sound all that intriguing, but the trick is that he is so good-natured and chilled that you will feel roughly twenty-four times better about the world after watching it. It’s so very simple, yet also completely marvellous. A simple thank you to a driver who allows him to pull out feels incredibly profound and helps you realise how interconnected our community is, which is a just fancy way of saying it’s nice to be nice.
And I mention it now, because as of tomorrow, it is on proper telly (well, BBC Three), and will be on the iPlayer. Honestly. even if it turns out to be only half as good as the YouTube clips, watch it. It will calm you right down, and improve your well-being like you wouldn’t believe.
The Guardian loves it now, but if you’re quick you can pretend you liked it before everyone else.
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2022/jan/15/zen-school-of-motoring-tv-that-will-cleanse-your-spirit-like-meditation
Really enjoyed that clip, thanks.
I was mesmerised by this & episode 2 during lockdown when it appeared on Twitter. I loved it when Ogmios came across a posse of Orthodox dudes dancing in the streets around Stamford Hill I believe & then making the journey across the river to Brixton.
He has a wonderful calming demeanour, so able to process the means streets with a lovely detachment.
Having looked him up & mentioned him a to a couple of pals way hipper than me, I discovered he’s pretty well known on the freestyle ‘battle’ scene ( or was, at one point anyway).
His command of improvised language is very impressive & goes some way to explaining how his road commentaries are so delightful.
I’ve grown very fond of him, & confess I was disappointed he hasn’t done more of them.
I chuckled a bit at that – nice gentle humour
It’s also a really good way to teach young people the best state of mind to be in to when driving.
When I was learning to drive, the instructors tended to be Alan Partridge or Gordon Brittas types.
New to me. Beautiful stuff, such a kind soul with a unique way with words.
Wonderful stuff – thanks for sharing
It did not help my state of mind I’m afraid. Nothing to do with his flow, and I really enjoy the pace, but all the cars assuming they can pull out onto a main road does my head in. I sincerely hope there are no rude cyclists on any of these.
Watched the first two minutes of episode 1. Hooked. Grabbing the lot now. Top tip – thanks Kid!
Just lovely, thank you.
I enjoyed these.
Particularly liked Yellow Mop Man – “You’re doin’ sterling work there!”
I’m very much enjoying the BBC version, it has an extra level of surreal humour with some occasional impressive visuals. I loved the pigeon flight, making a mental note of where the chips are. His songs are quietly funny as well.