Fuck you, Carsten.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 23:57:23 (GMT)

I am hardly a 'liberal' and i do believe that everything you do and everything you say DOES change the world! Now, I don't think whatever people like LG say on here has cahnged the world one iota for the better... - No more of this next year please.
Carsten
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 23:40:09 (GMT)

happy new year from kev lynn phil aimee and daisy dog.and another aimee who has come to stay
kevin forster <kevforster@btinternet.com>
worthing, uk - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 23:31:38 (GMT)

You're right, Carol, that one protest on inaugeration day will not bring down the reign of the Bushes. But we need to remind the American people what happened this past month. I was talking with my family over the holidays, and many of them said they were happy that this election business was finally at a close; they were "sick of hearing about it". They didn't think much about the illegal actions of the Supreme Court, either because they're stupid, or like many people, their heads were spinning from all the media mess. On January 20th, we need to remind everyone that this election was stolen, that our constitution was pissed on. And we need to keep reminding them again and again. With the same fervor that the moral majority tried to illegitimize Clinton, we need to weaken Bush. I'd like to say that I'm bigger than they are (the conservative right), but really I'm not. My boyfriend thinks I'm being ridiculous and says there are much more effective, more manipulative ways of getting things done than protesting. He's right, and trust me, I plan to pursue those other means, but right now, I just want to go to DC and yell.
Jessica Jolly <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 21:47:26 (GMT)

Okay, Carol, let me try a different approach. You love to bang on about how you participated in this rally or that protest, apparently because you believe that it gives you "street cred". You mentioned participating in Food Not Bombs and joining the IWW, though you never went to a single meeting because people smoked there. I've already articulated my worldview and enumerated some of the activities in which I engage to try to bring about a stateless, classless society. But what do *you* do? How long did you participate in Food Not Bombs? Do you still? If not, why not? What kind of society are you trying to create, and what do you do on a daily basis to bring it to fruition? Please do tell.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 21:47:14 (GMT)

Luther, I did not say that simple acts of kindess will change the world. What I said was that acts of kindness influence people more than rhetoric. Obviously, liberals don't try to take over the infrastructure. That is a revolutionary act. And that's what I did.
Carol
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 21:31:28 (GMT)

Of course you believe that "simple acts of kindness" will change the world, Carol. You're a liberal, and that's what liberals believe. In contrast, I believe that the working class and the employing class have nothing in common. I believe that there can be no peace so long as hunger and want exist among millions of working people while the few, who make up the employing class, have all the good things of life. I believe that the struggle between the haves and the have-nots must continue until the workers of the world organize as a class, take possession of the earth and the machinery of production, and abolish the wage system. That's the difference between you and me.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 21:16:09 (GMT)

I'm not being nice to you, Luther. I am disputing everything you say. I am pointing out that your acts of kindness have consequences far beyond your rhetoric and nasty comments here on the forum.
Carol
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 21:03:49 (GMT)

Don't try to be nice to me now, Carol, after two years of hostility. I'm not buying it.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 20:45:01 (GMT)

I want to add to my post below some thoughts on socialism and revolution. First of all, I want to say that I really admire the things that Luther says he does as a radical--helping others, particularly cleaning up for the aged and infirm. I have discovered that these kinds of acts really influence other people far more than radical rhetoric. I noticed that I got more people to sign union cards by being a supportive coworker--advising them on their rights as a worker, giving them the phone numbers of union stewards, or just buying them a drink after work when the bosses were down on them. All that logical and brilliant talk seemed to pass them by, but actions like that really mattered to them, and to others who know they can come to me when necessary. So, Luther, I think you probably have had greater influence on those in Utah than you realize. Now, onto the coming revolution. I am not sure it will happen, but with that stolen election, who knows? I will be in the streets on Jan. 20th, but I doubt if I will take part in any of the real action like I did ten years ago during the Persian Gulf War. I learned a lot about myself and about the efficacy of direct action during that period. In San Francisco, we took over the streets. We closed down the freeways. We marched all night. I was a grandmother, but I was as active as I could be. We faced down the cops who were afraid to stop us, and that was fun! I stood beside an abandoned police car and watched it burn. We marched all night, and then we surrounded the Federal building and shut it down. I was arrested along with around 1000 others. It felt like a great success, but I got sick, and after my fever broke, the streets were again quiet and everybody went back to work. The war went on. Ultimately, we hadn't stopped anything. I am not sure when these kinds of actions are really successfully in bringing governments down, and I sure would like to bring down Bush's illegal reign, but I doubt if the demos on the 20th will do that. Still, it is important for the people to be in the streets demonstrating their disgust. In the meantime, it is also important to do those everyday kinds acts of socialism. Here's to 2001. It might be an interesting year.
Carol
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 20:22:14 (GMT)

Happy New Year everybody. It's still the morning of December 31 here on the other side of the pond. Doing a little cleaning for 2001, I came across a tape that I think Sonja made for me. It is so lovely--Kirsty's father on one side, and some lovely rock and international revolution on the other. I think she said that she copied it from a tape that Brian sent her, so thank you, Brian. I particularly liked the song about going to London to get a job, and if no one will give you a job, burning the town down. Quite jolly, that one! Happy New Year, one and all.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 20:06:18 (GMT)

Bit of a cliche' but Happy New Year to all on the forum ! To Hitlers little elf......love you xxxx(never mind, keep up the therapy you will soon get better!)
Craig
Hull, - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 19:47:47 (GMT)

At the late show last night, Bill did a nice tribute to Kirsty at the end of the set--talking about working with her, her talent & humour, and giving a charming review of her latest album. Then he sang the song he wrote and she recorded for the film "Mad Love" (As Long as You Hold Me) followed by New England w/the added Kirsty verse. I found it less sad that he had the song books than that he claimed that he hadn't been using the Burns so much lately b/c it is so much heavier than the other guitar and hurts his back! He brought someone up on stage to take a lift of each to prove his point. He went on to play World Turned Upside Down, St Swithins Day, The Only One, and Jabberwocky on it just the same. Ended the show with Shirley as a group effort--he didn't think he could hit the high notes anymore, so the audience was responsible for most of the "Shirley's," "summer years," etc. Great show all in all.
Caroline
NYC, USA - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 19:15:41 (GMT)

Thanks for that, Jessica. "A New England" is the one song that Braggy has always played, every gig, as far as I'm aware. It will never be quite the same now, of course. Kirsty MacColl was utterly brilliant, just in case anyone was in any doubt.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 18:40:23 (GMT)

Long Island... I'll be the OTHER guy with the English accent... oh and a beer in me hand!
Mark & Patsy
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 18:20:51 (GMT)

Simon, this kind of thing goes on in monkseaton?!! Where? Where?!! Hester, how could i ever forget Geordie Racer? "Howay man spuggie, ah'm gannin doon tae the allotment tae feed me pigeons stotties and broon ale like"...hehe... Does no-one else find it slightly depressing that Billy has to read his own songbook on stage? anyway, happy new year everyone...I'm off to take in the festive cheer on the wring side of the bar for once :)
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 18:17:00 (GMT)

Well, I don't know where you're coming from, Mark and Patsy, but the snow has all been cleared off the streets in the city. Thanks for the site, Pam.
Jessica Jolly
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 18:05:26 (GMT)

Thanks for the love note Joe, do the math it - don't add up..Love wins..you know you love me black..and I love you to cuz you so stupid. Peace
Harry Paratesteese <JessieOwensKeelleedDemBamaAssNazitswiththosebigassspikedcleats >
Skitzy, Germaney - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 18:01:21 (GMT)

Well I guess we will have to brave the 12" of snow and make it into the city to see Billy boy tonight. Do I miss England... not a chance.. I get to see Billy on New years eve, and I can still have Boddys beer in me fridge.. Hope you all have a "good one"
Mark & Patsy
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 17:50:33 (GMT)

Keri, Mary, and Bobby...Enjoy ! My plane ain't gonna get me there on time. So get there safe and have a great time. Mary, I hope YOU DIDN"T DRIVE up from NC again! - I hope he plays your song for that...How did the request thing go? Feliz Ano Nuevo
Paul H <briarpatch@dellnet.com>
Costa Mesa, Estados Unidos - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 17:12:00 (GMT)

http://www.inaugurauction.org/
Pam
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 17:02:58 (GMT)

Pete: Yes, the extra verse in New England was the one for Kirsty MacColl. He gave a whole speech about her life as an artist and what a wonderful friend and mother she was. And yes, I will give a review of tonight's performance. POLITICS: Can anyone point me to a website of one of the activist groups that will be protesting GW Bush's inaugeration? I'm planning on joining the "festivities".
Jessica Jolly <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 16:46:20 (GMT)

Keri - enjoy the gig, and I look forward to your review. Eventually. *grin*
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 16:37:23 (GMT)

Dear Hitler's Little Elf, fancy popping around to mine for some New Year festivities? The boys and I are going to enjoy a lively discussion about the political positions and roles of Stalin and Trotsky whilst drinking a gallon or two of herbal tea. Later on we'll probably end up whipping our crushed velvet loons off and shag each other rotten. Or will the home not let you out alone? Anyway, Happy New Year little elf, we don't hate you, we pity you.
Simon
UK - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 15:55:18 (GMT)

oh james, bring the missus and your son--it's a family affair. pete, you won't be without a review... but please allow for the time difference and a mighty hangover.
keri
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 15:38:44 (GMT)

Dear Adolf Hitler's Loyal Servant: Give us a kiss..
Aidan
Sheffield , UK - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 15:30:49 (GMT)

sad red b******, hippy gay lovers??? Christmas can be too much for some people can't it? Anyway happy hogmany to on and all x
Jennifer <inherhousebyaroaringfire>
Greenock, Scotland - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 15:11:48 (GMT)

1. ever noticed how you seem to seem to get the sort of stuff posted by hitler's little rentboy during school holidays. 2. ever noticed that the only people who take hitler seriously are emotionally immature and mentally weak (as he was). anyways happy new year!
Jon D
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 15:07:45 (GMT)

And a Happy New Year to all the sad red bastards too!
Jon
Bristol, UK - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 14:52:30 (GMT)

This is a good time to wish all my hippy gay lovers a happy new year. smooch!
Barbara
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 14:50:15 (GMT)

So... is anyone going to write a review of tonight's gig ?
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 14:20:27 (GMT)

You sad red bastards!!all you ever right on here is a load of old shit!!!i want to take you all and put you up against the wall and shoot the lot of you.all you aRE IS A BUNCH OF HIPPY GAY LOVERS,ALL GAY PEOPLE SHOULD DIE ALONG WITH ALL THE OTHER SCUM OF THE EARTH.seeing as this is a free place then i can say what i like.to hell with the lot of you and the battle between the reds and the true right will be won by the right and you will all have to take orders from the great late adolf hitler from the gospel that he left behind!!!HAIL THE TRUE MASTER AND GOD,HITLER.
adolf hitlers loyal servant <hail hitler the provider of all things good>
berlin, nazi germany - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 13:59:32 (GMT)

Keri, that means my wife gets stuck watching our son and the two dogs by herself. My have I become so domestic. As this point I have to resort to volunteering at soup kitchens and staying close to home.
James
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 13:30:56 (GMT)

hey james, the 20th is a saturday this year--wanna go?
keri
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 13:15:11 (GMT)

well, well jessica sounds like you had fun last night. i am lovin' the snow. we got 12.5 inches here in brooklyn--i could deal with another 12. so we're on for this evening. i'll see you at 7.
keri <it'skeriwithoner>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 13:12:14 (GMT)

Election Anger Fuels Inaugural Protesters D.C. and U.S. Park Police expect thousands of protesters like David Barrows who believe the presidential election was "stolen." (James A. Parcell - The Washington Post) _____The Transition_____ š Full Coverage š Bush as President š Bush Profiles š Text, Video, Biographies, More _____Federal Page_____ š In the Loop by Al Kamen š Federal Diary by Stephen Barr š Special Interests by Judy Sarasohn š Ideas Industry by Richard Morin and Claudia Deane š More Stories _____OnPolitics_____ š Latest Political News š E-mail Updates What's Your Opinion? E-Mail This Article Printer-Friendly Version By David Montgomery and Arthur Santana Washington Post Staff Writers Thursday, December 21, 2000; Page A10 The raw wounds left by the presidential election finale have created enough irritation to unleash one of the largest inauguration protests in years, according to veteran organizers and police officials. "This will be by far the biggest counter-inauguration since the 1973 Nixon counter-inauguration," predicted Brian Becker, co-director of the International Action Center in New York, who has demonstrated at numerous presidential swearing-in events. "We organize protests not infrequently, and we know when something has legs and when it doesn't have legs. This one does." At the second inauguration of President Richard M. Nixon, police estimated there were 25,000 to 100,000 demonstrators, including some who threw fruit and stones at Nixon's car. The total crowd was about 300,000. D.C. police are expecting about 750,000 people on Jan. 20 when President-elect Bush is sworn in, and they said they think many demonstrators will be content to voice their displeasure peacefully. Becker's group, like several others hoping to flood parts of the city on Inauguration Day, had been planning to be in Washington no matter who won the election. But enough people think the outcome was illegitimate, he said, that it has cranked up protest passion. Within hours of the Dec. 12 U.S. Supreme Court decision blocking Vice President Gore's effort to recount votes in Florida, Becker and other organizers said, their Web sites were deluged with inquiries. "There's a tremendous amount of spontaneous organizing going on," said Becker, 48. A rainbow of left-leaning groups had planned to rally on the Mall to vent outrage at a variety of demons, including racism, the death penalty and the corporate influence on politics. But complaints that some Florida votes were not counted, including those of many African Americans, have given demonstrators powerful common issues. Unlike the street protests against the World Bank in April, no civil disobedience has been planned, organizers say. They said the demonstrations will feature signs, chants, giant puppets, skits and a squad of radical stilt walkers being trained in Philadelphia. "We are not planning to shut down the inauguration," Becker said. "We are planning to make it plain that the inaugural route is not the private property of those who support the death penalty, so we're going to be well-represented on that parade route." D.C. police aren't taking any chances with protesters' intentions, according to Executive Assistant Chief Terrance W. Gainer. He said he expects fewer than 5,000 unruly demonstrators might try to disrupt the inauguration, along with thousands of peaceful demonstrators. In addition to the D.C. force, thousands of suburban and federal officers will participate in what officials described as an unprecedented level of security. The Justice Action Movement, an alliance of Washington area protesters, yesterday sent D.C. Police Chief Charles H. Ramsey a letter requesting a meeting to discuss plans for peaceful protests. Cmdr. Michael Radzilowski, who is in charge of special operations, said yesterday that he would be happy to meet with the protesters. Half a dozen groups have requested permits, but none have been granted. A National Park Service spokesman said the agency is waiting for inauguration planners to make final arrangements before it allots space to protesters. The National Organization for Women plans to be there. "It's important for our own spirit to let people know there is a place to plug in, take that anger and use it to fuel some additional activism," NOW President Patricia Ireland said. The Rev. Al Sharpton and the Rev. Walter Fauntroy plan a "shadow inauguration" outside the U.S. Supreme Court to swear in those pledging to uphold the Voting Rights Act. "We feel the act was violated by George Bush," Sharpton said. Fauntroy, pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church in Shaw, said he has witnessed every swearing-in since President Franklin D. Roosevelt's fourth in 1945, and "I know of no inauguration that has been the source of greater controversy than this . . . following a shameful election." Other activists are planning a Voters March to call for election reform and the abolishment of the electoral college. "Our nation has been traumatized by what has happened in this election," said Louis Posner, a New York attorney leading the effort. Another group, the D.C.-based New Black Panther Party, and its allies plan to stage a Day of Outrage march, said spokesman Malik Shabazz. Other local protest efforts are being coordinated by the Justice Action Movement, a coalition of many who protested the World Bank. They have been holding public meetings for several weeks at George Washington University. They scheduled a news conference today to bring together organizers of various protest efforts. On Monday, several dozen people attended a Justice Action Movement meeting. Most were students or young members of progressive organizations and unions, but several were old enough to have protested Nixon's inauguration. Justice Action Movement has dubbed Jan. 20 the "InaugurAuction," a reference to members' belief that the major parties buy the White House with corporate funds. "Because of a corrupt political system, we now have a president who is going to be threatening the lives of many innocent people because of his support for the death penalty, military policies abroad and free trade," said Adam Eidinger, 27, a movement organizer. At the meeting, the group voted not to use violence, vandalism, weapons, alcohol or drugs. They also decided to remain in small groups scattered all over the Mall, employing creative visual effects and stilt walkers to make their points. After the meeting, several organizers said they suspected a police infiltrator was in their midst. A man with a goatee looked just like a plainclothes officer who figured prominently in confrontations with World Bank demonstrators, according to organizers who said they have videotapes. Before ending a brief telephone interview with The Washington Post, the man denied he was an undercover officer. A police spokesman said there is no one on the force with the name the man used at the meeting. Gainer confirmed that the police have infiltrated the protesters, but he didn't identify anyone. "They're looking for excuses to shut us down," Eidinger said. This week, a few members of Justice Action Movement held a practice InaugurAuction in front of the White House, offering to auction the building for $10 to carpenters building bleachers for the parade. "I don't feel this particular election demonstrates ideally what the presidency is for this country," said Elizabeth Croyden, 30, an actress and film producer who participated. "It exposes a lot of flaws in the system, and I'm upset about it. If you don't get involved, how can you make a difference?" © 2000 The Washington Post Company
James <summerfallwinterspring98@juno.com>
Bush League but angry - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 13:10:16 (GMT)

why dont you all get a life and follow the master race!!!the red scum are a thing of the past and its the right that will win. i want to hang all the red arse badits from a tree and watch them all die slowly and with lots of pain!!!!
i hate the left wing cunts <better dead than red>
berlin, nazi germany - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 12:44:40 (GMT)

Except Luther's post was a genuine question. He could make no sense of the post and was asking for clarification. As usual your hate for him colored your interpretation of what he as doing. Why are you guys such reactionaries?
Pam <raverp@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 12:43:44 (GMT)

And, yes, I (and more than a few of the old-timers here I'm sure) can vouch for the fact that Bill does indeed need his own songbooks on stage when he plays all-too-rare solo gigs these days...
Pete Crook
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 10:48:15 (GMT)

Thanks for the feedback on the New York gig, folks. Very pleased for you, Jessica ! Can I assume from Jonathanās post that Bill included the ćextra verseä (written for Kirsty MacColl) in ćA New Englandä ? That would be completely unique as far as I am aware (but Iām open to contradiction·), and must have been included as a tribute to her. And Iād like to hear about what Bill said about Kirsty: anyone ?
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 10:40:58 (GMT)

The Grammer Police are the skinheads of this guestbook....(:)..Thanks for the call today Laura..
steve <Arsenal 2 v 2 Sunderland.cracking result eh Theo??>
brisbane / sunderland...this year dublin and lisbon, USA - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:20:16 (GMT)

when parking and cold weather stops people going to gigs thats the time to call it a day
steve
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:17:53 (GMT)

working class patriot..oh! the British Independance party...I forgot about them?...how could I.....wanker
steve
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:17:00 (GMT)

In Newcastle they are called stotties in sunderland flat cakes (10miles apart)
steve
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:15:18 (GMT)

opps..stottie cake
steve
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:14:25 (GMT)

Sottie Cake or also know as Flat cake...it does have yeast just like ordinary bread, except the dough has slightly more water than normal...once the dough has risen and been knocked back, hand ball them until round and about 8 ounces in weight...leave to stand for 30 minutes then roll out round plate size 12in dia....leave to rise for 40 mins put in very hot oven and half way through baking turn over...12 mins baking time in total....when cooled slice and eat with roasted ham and pease pudding...or dip in yer soup bonny lad
steve <made it 1000s of times>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 06:13:59 (GMT)

I was at the early show at the Bottom Line, too. Any body know the words in the verse in 'New England' about waiting for a call, which ends "when at last it didn't ring, I knew it wasn't you" ? My compliments to the page turner.
Jonathan <j238@yahoo.com>
NY, USA - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 04:14:52 (GMT)

Happy New Year to all guestbookers (even Theo) and their families...
Kim <grrrl@community.hipmama.com>
Indiana, USA - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 04:08:20 (GMT)

I just got back from the first Billy show at the Bottom Line. He was fabulous, doing a solo show which is the only kind of show he should do. And best of all I WAS ON STAGE WITH BILLY BRAGG! That's right, he asked me on stage to turn the page for him (yes, he was reading his own songbook) during "Must I Paint You A Picture", one of my favourites. Of course, I forgot to bring a camera. If anyone on this board was at the show and got a shot of Billy and his page turner, could you scan and send me a copy? Can't wait to see him again tomorrow night with Kerri. Oh, and Kerri, don't you love all this snow?
Jessica <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 03:55:03 (GMT)

STEVE - GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT. I SUPPORT THE UK INDEPENDENCE PARTY. *NOT* THE BNP!!!!!!
A WORKING CLASS BRITISH PATRIOT
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 03:18:52 (GMT)

My Geordie mother-in-law makes 'stottie cakes'. It is un-leaven bread - bread made in the usual fashion, except not left to rise a second time. Hot from the oven it is delicious.
Amanda
Adelaide, South Oz - Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 03:03:37 (GMT)

JON - THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU, BUT SOME WORKING CLASS PEOPLE *DO* MAKE IT TO UNIVERSITY!!!!!
A WORKING CLASS BRITISH PATRIOT
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 03:02:15 (GMT)

could someone educate me, and tell me what 'stotties' are? (i seem to remember an episode of 'jordy racer' mentioning them... anyone remember that?).
hester
- Sunday, December 31, 2000 at 02:01:44 (GMT)

Poliltics: Yes, John Ashcroft is the token "religous right" Christian conservative. A real right-wing wingnut. Suprised that Bush picked him as the rest of his cabinet picks seem fairly sane.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 23:08:20 (GMT)

Well, happy New Years from Ohio! It looks like there has been some snow up here! But not much compared to what the East Coast is getting. Sonj, looks like yr local cybercafe is a clean, well-lighted place for websurfing. Interestingly enough I got a Christmas present of a book of areal photos of London and the Thames valley (with text by Alestair Cook). Now I see what alot of London looks like (at least from the air).
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 23:04:47 (GMT)

well, it's absolutly beautiful here in brooklyn with about 10" of snow. i'm kind of technically snowed in from the pub or perhaps resting up for tomorrow night. CAROL- how about these two words--john ashcroft?? if he turns out to get the attorney general post then i am running away to london to get married. he is a scary, scary man. CARSTEN- to have the grammar police relax and take a break would be an ideal new year's resolution--what do you say luther? happy new year all...hope 2001 is happy and healthy for everyone.
keri <thanks for sending the snow barbara!>
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 22:44:54 (GMT)

I see the gramar and punctuation police are out policing the web site. these people must lead such wonderful fufilling lives that they have so much time to engage in monitoring gramaticial errors
XXXXXXXX <get a life>
USA - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 19:15:08 (GMT)

Sonj and Alberr, Happy New Year and thanks eternally for your lovely support. love from the Ingalls
The Ingalls
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 19:01:45 (GMT)

An alternative for all you lucky New Yorkers if you can't make / afford Braggy's gig. GO SEE BLACK 47. "Sunday 31st Connolly's, 14 E. 47th St. (212)867-3767. Tickets are $15 and are on sale at Connolly's Bar. If you can't get tickets, just show up early. We will go onstage at 11pm or thereabouts."
Pete Crook
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 18:54:40 (GMT)

Oh shit, smartarse strikes again. Any chance we can leave these juvenile postings behind us in the new year?
Carsten
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 18:31:57 (GMT)

If it's not estimated that over 500,000 are expected to crash the inauguration, James, how many *are* expected?
Luther Gaylord
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 18:20:40 (GMT)

It is not estimated that over 500,000 are expected to be in DC to rain (rein) hell on Debuya's Inaugural Ball. Robin, the only icecream shop we have over here is "Cookies-N-Cream". Most of the locals go to the Stewart's Shops (kind of like the Wah-Wah in NJ and Penn. Half the price.
James <summerfallwinterspring98@juno.com>
New Paltz, - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 17:32:37 (GMT)

I'm now very glad I didn't make plans to see BB on New Year's Eve. There will be no parking there with all this snow! That area can also get damned cold (not that this one isn't right now). Is Amy's Ice Cream shop still near there? I haven't been to that section of the island in a while.
Red Robin
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 15:23:17 (GMT)

... happy new year james. usual appliance probs, got to argos with another useless toaster but had left receipt in the car. However new multi cooker is brill and alberr is busy decorating the office after being served perfectly cooked eggs and bacon. Bacon not as good as scaifes (james) but at least i had something to cook it on this time carol!!! Siobhan, reminds me of our epic journey to your place via kent when we stopped to cook eggs and bacon and black pudding before we left having raced across country to find a cooker that worked. Will be up in essex tomorrow for the new year festivities.
sonj <braggpuss@hotmail still working when i can get to it>
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 14:34:10 (GMT)

Happy New Year Everyone: I hope Billy doesn't get snowed-in NYC . We already have 6" in the valley with another 12" expected by tommorow.
James <summerfallwinterspring98@juno.com>
New Paltz, Bush League - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 13:56:44 (GMT)

if i can tear alberr away from the old films channel on the cable tv i wil try and send out some new year tv-e-mail greetings tonight. Hope you all have a lovely one
sonj <ian's barbers cyber cafe in hampshire>
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 13:31:33 (GMT)

just passing the cybercafe. you can see where i am if you look at http://www.coffeecom.net/
sonj
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 13:29:24 (GMT)

A working class british patriot who 'attends' Oxford Brookes University? Doesn't look to bloody working class to me.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 12:15:10 (GMT)

talking about wanking a mate if mine had 8 in one day...I found a good therapist for him though...so we have a BNP member here or a silly turd playing games, either way go boil your head cretin
steve
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 11:05:11 (GMT)

Come on WCBP, details, details.
Carol <Iguesshewanksin allCAPSwith visions of Queen Vickiewhenhecums>
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 03:16:38 (GMT)

Hang on a minute Carol, I'll just ring my dad and ask..
siobhan <actually he's presently married to a middleclass magistrate.>
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 02:13:44 (GMT)

CAROL - I DESPISE THATCHER. SHE ALLOWED YET MORE IMMIGRANTS TO SETTLE HERE; SIGNED THE ANGLO-IRISH AGREEMENT; AND TOOK US FURTHER INTO EUROPE!!!!!
A WORKING-CLASS BRITISH PATRIOT
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 02:11:22 (GMT)

How does a working class British patriot wank, anyway? Does he/she use props? Do they fantasize Thatcher's boobs and wipe up with the union jack? Just curious.
Carol
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 01:22:21 (GMT)

Here's a sour note to add to all this music chat: Have you Europeans been paying attention to our Prez Elect Bush's cabinet appointments? Besides dredging up every Republican still alive who were part of Nixon's, Ford's, Reagan's, and especially papa's administrations, he is appointing all these "social conservatives." Women of America, be afraid, be very afraid. And get this, he wants to reinstate star wars--never worked then and doesn't work now. A billion dollar boondoggle to make his friends in the defense industry happy and rich. And he will start oil drilling in Alaska. Enviornmentalists, be afraid. Be very afraid. I imagine the Democrats will help him pass tax cuts, too. The American people didn't vote this in. But our Demo and Republican representatives will ram it down our throats anyway.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 01:19:12 (GMT)

BILLY BRAGG IS A WANKER!!!!!
A WORKING-CLASS BRITISH PATRIOT
- Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 01:15:11 (GMT)

And then buy the album! There's not enough millionaire socailist folkie protest singer types in this world. Shit, why is it always down to Bill?
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 00:46:36 (GMT)

Sorry, forgot my email address.
Carsten <notonato@hotmail.com>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 23:24:55 (GMT)

Hmmm, don't know who spat on your cornflakes this morning... All I was saying was the website you suggest is not very useful to Europeans as each of the songs takes over an hour and a half to download. Things can be arranged for people in Europe in a much less painful fashion. Got it? -Cheers!
Carsten <ifyoureinterestedindickgaughandropmealine>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 23:23:08 (GMT)

Carsten, that was for everyone. I felt magnanimous, okay? Geesh, give me a break.
Pam <raverp@hotmail.com>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 23:09:28 (GMT)

Hmmm, strange suggestion to someone sitting in an internet cafe... No need to do anything about Dick Gaughan, Sonj. other than confirm your new address. I wouldn't be at all surprised now if things might just be arranged for you...
Carsten
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 23:06:42 (GMT)

You can sample some Dick Gaughan songs (thanks to Mean Evil Luther) at the Radical Music Archive. http://hillstrom.iww.org/music/
Pam <raverp@hotmail.com>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 22:51:40 (GMT)

Sonj, buy the album! It has a version of The World Turned Upside Down on it.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 21:25:58 (GMT)

A final reminder that all entries must be in this weekend (before midnight GMT on 31st December) for the Annual Quiz. Just head along to : http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg - Braggtopia! - The Ultimate Billy Bragg Website
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 21:07:55 (GMT)

thanks Dick! I will buy it next time i am in MVC if the plastic still works. btw i have found the song i am looking for..Kirsty Maccoll - Walking Down Madison Single 1991 Virgin SCDG 1348 Track: Darling Let's Have Another Baby - duet with Kirsty Maccoll .....Have been humming it for days.
sonj
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 17:20:41 (GMT)

The name of that album is HANDFUL OF EARTH.
Dick Gaughan
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 17:16:31 (GMT)

OK, somebody tell me where the Kirsty and Billy song about making babies comes from?? I have mislaid (temporarily i hope!!) the cd that Brian made for my which it was on. Better go and help alberr with getting the 'new' office ready ....
sonj
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 17:16:13 (GMT)

the name of the album that is.... Good news, alberr is getting a room ready in the new place to put the kit in so we should be on lin@home soon!! Tettland ans Ian, i promise the photos will materialise soon!!
sonj
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 16:51:12 (GMT)

Carsten, he was standing in a field by a power station but i can't remember the name of it.
sonj
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 16:47:31 (GMT)

Hi Sonj. Great to hear from you. Which Dick Gaughan album did you have in mind?
Carsten
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 13:37:41 (GMT)

happy new year everybody
love sonj et al
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 12:10:36 (GMT)

just to update you all on the appliance front ... two new toasters have been returned to the shop... humane mousetrap has totally disappeared along with two layers of posh chocolates from unopened box along with a packet of indigestion tablets. Presumably supermouse came to the rescue and they decided to have a party and play tricks.
sonj <thinking of getting a cat>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 12:06:34 (GMT)

steve, alberr and i had a splurge in the CD shop yesterday ( last ditch before unemployment bites) 'fraid i left dick gaughan on the shelf 'til next time but got some great old oysterband stuff with reference to gigging with bill.
sonj
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 12:01:07 (GMT)

tettland, thanks for the lovely long mail, i will reply soon! I am sure i sent you my adress!!!
sonj <no apolgies for personal messages, i am not at home and don't have addresses>
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 11:58:48 (GMT)

Hi Carol, we are alive and well! Hope you are much better. Did Kate like the bag? I am in a cybercafe right now.
sonja
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 11:54:00 (GMT)

And before you ask, I mean the threat of violence to a perfectly rational statement.
Weevil
UK - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 10:05:14 (GMT)

The response from Northern Teen is exactly what I would have expected. True colours and all that...
Weevil
UK, - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 09:57:57 (GMT)

I agree scooter...Cheer up Peter Reid, we know what it means to be top of the League.....C/mon you reds, let's take 3 points off the gooners this week...My mate Julian the spurs fan has gone a bit quiet...
steve
- Friday, December 29, 2000 at 08:11:37 (GMT)

If Spurs win at Wembley in May I'll be a · The final is in Cardiff! Still it's a good year for Spurs when the year ends in 1, We first won the cup when the ·I can't tell you how bad they were last night!!
Dickie <Simplyhavingawonderfulchristmastime>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 23:44:15 (GMT)

Buy Bobby a watery wee for me, Willy.
Barbara
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 23:18:46 (GMT)

It's snowing on Teesside! Woo hoo. And Weevil, who the hell are you? Cheer up you miserbale b@stard, before I slap a smile onto your face. On a lighter note, I've just discovered a cluster of new songs on Napster by The Clash...early B-sides/singles "1977" "Deny" "Listen"...so 'punk' it's unbelievable.
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 21:32:18 (GMT)

Buy Billy a watery beer for me, Woody.
Barbara <awwwwwwIwishIweregoingtotheshow@bottomline>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 20:32:56 (GMT)

Bragg and company arrive in the states today.
.
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 20:28:21 (GMT)

Bragg and company arrive on our shores today.
.
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 20:27:30 (GMT)

Hey Sonja: I haven't heard from you in awhile. I hope all is well. Happy 2001 everyone.
Carol Tarlen <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 20:09:30 (GMT)

steve; I don't think you understand what I mean. I'm referring to the blinkered population of the US who don't realise that there is a world outside their shores. The unbridled nationalism of a country where only 45% of the population own passports, where I get the serious comments, "you speak good English", "Do you celebrate Easter in Australia?", and so on. The American population is generally kept stupid by its media. The government here likes to keep it's general population here stupid and naive. It's just so much easier to control. There's nothing wrong with questioning authority, although here you wouldn't believe that.
scooter
Baltimore now, Formerly Australia - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 18:31:57 (GMT)

M'bro dynamite? What a load of utter shite. Please keep your idiotic rantings to yourself.
Weevil
UK, - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 16:05:42 (GMT)

Keri is klarly suverink vrom sewere sexual vrustration - und probably fancies her vather azvell
Sigmund Fraud
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 15:42:44 (GMT)

actually i think it has a lot to do with my sleeping on the couch for the last few days. oh my aching back. but anyway, the last dream was a screaming match at the show cause he wouldn't sing auld lang syne. any interpretations on that?
keri
new york, - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 15:01:59 (GMT)

excellent blues web site....http://www.redlickrecords.com.....and online music and film fair at...www.vip-24.com
steve <having a play>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 11:12:18 (GMT)

a report from my sister who said she thought Billy and the blokes were brilliant (and funny) in Bristol recently(Ive just spoke to her)
steve
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 10:38:12 (GMT)

Derek and any other folk fans, there is a great Bert Jansch Double CD just out called Dazzling Stranger, its a 44 track (various label) anthology covering 1965-2000 and only 12.99 (pounds)...Track Records in York England have it and they will send anywhere world wide....Tel is 01904 629022 and fax 01904 610637...e-mail trackyork.fsnet.co.uk...dont expect any power in the union type stuff, but a classic guitarist and influential folk icon.
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 10:36:12 (GMT)

It's snowed in Bristol overnight, and I've woken up with a cold! That's the last time I post pseudo medical advice on a message board or email group!
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 08:18:13 (GMT)

Just for the record, I did not write that last post.
Barbara <notmetheimposterisback>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 06:19:08 (GMT) hey guess who!..you forgot to add..cos the boro are dynamite, and we are all going to enjoy another relegation fight"...(:)"
steve <The Stadium of light the capital of all North East football>


- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 05:18:31 (GMT)

Arbara: it's OK. People lose Mariel's M all the time. She actually doesn't mind having a name so similar to that of "The Little Mermaid." It was her favorite movie as a baby.
Red Robin
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 04:46:49 (GMT)

My my, I wonder who the intelligent, handsome young whipper-snapper was who left that last message. Nice one, mate.
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 02:36:46 (GMT)

OOOOOOOOOOH, his name is TERRY VENABLES, he wears a magic hat, and when HE SAW THE BORO, he said I FANCY THAT!! He could have signed for Leeds, or Sunderland but THEY'RE SH*TE, so he said I'll sign for BORO 'COS THEY'RE F***ING DYNAMITE
Guess Who??
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 02:34:00 (GMT)

Wow, didn't know that Maya Angelou wrote a poem for L.G.! I thought it was about conquering racism and glorying in powerful black success! Carsten, I'm sorry I never mentioned Ben Harper here... He's great but still trying to get into his latest. Have had it for a while, only listened to it twice. Was gonna trade it in but am now giving it a second chance. Has anyone seen him in concert lately? What are the "innocent criminals" like? Saw him first with some great percussionists (1996?) and then the next show I saw was rather drab without them... On another note, finally got my copy of "suitable for miners" back after a year long loan to a stranger ("don't lend your friends books out to other people!" says this librarian!) Will be fun to read it again!
Susan <but still like dust I rise>
- Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 02:05:49 (GMT)

Channel 4 are showing "The Harry Hil Xmas Special" tonight - does anyone know is this is the one with Billy on?
Brian
London, UK - Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 23:48:18 (GMT)

Does my happiness upset you? Why are you best with gloom? Cause I laugh like I've got an oil well pumpin' in my living room.
Barbara <yesyou'rerightCarsten>
itwaswrittenjustforLuther, - Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 21:31:07 (GMT)

Becareful going out in the snow Carsten, you don't catch a chill. There's been no snow in Bristol, the only white I've seen is vague traces under the veigns in my eyes. Off to put another christian on the fire...
Jon
Bristol, UK - Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 21:16:49 (GMT)

Alright Barbara, you can stop swearing - I must have missed it. Anyway, don't you think one of the tracks on "Welcome To The Cruel World" sounds like it was written for L.G.? --- Keri, I used to take that stuff that sees you thru Xmas as well :). Belfast is completely snowed under! I almost pity all the good Christians who didn't get a "White Christmas" :)
Carsten <justafterthebestsnowfightinyears>
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 19:04:57 (GMT)

Tell us your dreams Keri. We won't laugh. Really.
Barbara
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 17:56:58 (GMT)

Robin, apologize to Mariel for me for losing her M.
Arbara
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 16:14:34 (GMT)

i've been having bizarre dreams.
keri
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 13:17:55 (GMT)

Sonja: hope you're having a good xmas. Any sign of those BB (and us) in Copenhagen pictures?
Tettland <half way through "still suitable for miners", my best xmas pressie:)>
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 10:05:28 (GMT)

Respect to Sunderland for what they are achieving now, and also to Middlesbrough for getting in the greatest coach in football, even if his tactics did completely stifle the game at White Hart Lane last Saturday...
Pete Crook (southern 40-something)
London, England - Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 09:06:55 (GMT)

A belated Happy Christmas, a still timely happy Hanukkah, and a very merry New Year to all, especially the Red Strumpets. Mariel says hello to Barbara, Bob I. and James. It is now after 3 a.m. here, so I guess I am having an insomniac attack, after doing a rewrite on my play. One more song to write and a little tweaking of some of the scenes, and I hope to be done - perhaps this week. Now if only I could find that %^#&^% music tape...
Red Robin
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 08:17:28 (GMT)

Carsten I swear we've talked about Ben Harper on this page before but better late then never. You're right he's amazing.
Barbara <willtoliveisinconstantrotation@home>
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 06:33:33 (GMT)

Sunderland won't last the season. I mean, with just ONE arguably class player [Phillips] in a team of eleven? Won't belong before the rest of those claggers run out of steam and not win for about nine games. Jealous? Me? Of course not!
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
Stockton-on-Tees, I Hate Niall Quinn - Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 02:46:33 (GMT)

new years 2000 or 2001.... who cares... it's new years eve with billy--that's what matters.
keri
- Wednesday, December 27, 2000 at 00:09:02 (GMT)

Is it New Years Eve 2000 or is it New Years Eve 2001? Discuss.
.
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 23:50:20 (GMT)

Happy Boxing Day everyone!
murphy <yeehaw@cowboy.com>
Austin, TX - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 22:53:06 (GMT)

Does anyone know BEN HARPER and if yes, why did you ba***rd never share your secret knowledge with us??? :) - Just discovering his musique extraordinaire via napster...
Carsten
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 21:27:16 (GMT)

Dundee Utd 0 - Celtic 4 :)
Carsten <thisseasonsoursorsoihope>
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 20:36:01 (GMT)

bradford 1 v 4 sunderland.....3rd...nuff said..enjoying those opiates
steve
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 20:11:16 (GMT)

1901, 1921, 1951, 1961, 1971, 1981, 1991... er ??
Pete
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 19:23:42 (GMT)

Totteham are going to win at Wembley next May. Hey, it's 2001.
Pete Crook
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 19:18:07 (GMT)

On the greatest song lyric ever Grauniad debate that I mentioned earlier, there's been even more braggy input. And checking the papers front (web) page, looks like 2001's gonna be a bundle of fun, in a bombs, jihads, and general death collecting! BTW the partnership of MacGowan/Finer (Pogues) must rank amongst one of the greatest songwriting duo's IMO
Jon
Bristol, UK - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 14:34:21 (GMT)

whats the matter Luther, are you in need of a fight....plenty of mailing lists for you to blast off at
steve
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 11:03:19 (GMT)

good old omniscient www.Gaylord.god.com seems to be working under the assumption that he knows who does and doesn't read this guestbook...please masterful one pass on next weekends lottery numbers.
steve
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 11:01:05 (GMT)

Hello All! Merry Christmas! DOes anyone know any good RObbie WIlliams Site? I am looking for the site wioth the nude pics! Thank you!
Greg <ogunquit@cuba.com>
Ogunquit, Maine, USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 02:08:14 (GMT)

Steve Hossack seems to be operating under the mistaken assumptions that (1) Shane MacGowan can read and (2) he reads Billy Bragg's website guestbook.
Luther Gaylord
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 01:53:53 (GMT)

Shane MacGowan, Happy Birthday, stay alive for fucks sake will you, Piss off the hangers-on and the wasters that surround you, listen to Sinead Shane and consider how your loved ones will feel if you snuff it..love steve
steve <johnquays@optusnet.conm.au>
- Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 01:19:48 (GMT)

That Billy fan fiction site is back up. Evidently she moved the links or something. The old pages now link up to the new ones: http://ejadler.tripod.com/bragg.html
Lindsey Leary <lindseydj@europe.com>
Baltimore, USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 00:41:59 (GMT)

MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone, yet again....I'm eating ham and pease pudding stotties and drinking vast amounts of christmas beer and smoking vast amounts of christmas tabs. Usually the festive season is really depressing but today, it's ok so far :)
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 13:57:49 (GMT)

...but I'll take the cheesecake, Steve...
Pete
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 11:54:35 (GMT)

Kirsty's music is ringing around our house on Christmas Day.
Pete Crook
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 11:47:46 (GMT)

Indonesia is also quite highly populated by Hindu's, and while we were on holiday there (Bali) we were told of quite violent clashes between Hindu's and 'Christians / Catholics' (mostly tourists) and muslims. This was just after the election where, even though the Muslim representative failed to score hardly any votes, as they are in a 5% minority, they still managed to elect a Muslim prime minister.
Jon
Somewhere, UK - Monday, December 25, 2000 at 08:27:02 (GMT)

Pete, only if you join me for some mandarin cheesecake , Im just making some iced fresh fruit puree to pour over
steve
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 07:48:22 (GMT)

Shit, the kids just woke me up. What day is it, anyway ..? Oh, yeah. Anyone want to come round for black olive and red wine pate, mushroom brioche, cashew nut sauce and paprika rice later ?
Pete Crook
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 06:33:43 (GMT)

"Who in the hell d'you think you are, A super star? Well, right you are. Well we all shine on, Like the moon and the stars and the sun. Yeah we all shine on On and on and on on and on." Peace.
Carol
ctarlen@att.net, - Monday, December 25, 2000 at 04:14:08 (GMT)

some articles from the post carsten sent below...WHAT NICE CIVILISED PEOPLE HUMANS ARE, HYPOCRITES ON MOST LEVELS...." At least 10 people have died and dozens left injured in a wave of synchronised bomb attacks across Indonesia, targeting Christian worshippers at Christmas Eve services. ...the simultaneous timing of so many blasts is bound to throw suspicion on elements of the military. ......Christians make up less than 5% of the population of Indonesia - the world's most populous Muslim state. Christmas celebrations are coinciding this year with the final days of Islam's holy month of Ramadan, which ends on Tuesday night. Religious tensions Over the past two years, escalating clashes between Christians and Muslims in Indonesia have claimed thousands of lives. Religious tensions have risen in recent months throughout the Indonesian archipelago. The most serious trouble has been in the Moluccan islands in Indonesia's east, where an estimated 5,000 people of both faiths have been killed in two years of sectarian violence. Search BBC News Online Advanced search options BBC ONE TV NEWS WORLD NEWS SUMMARY BBC NEWS 24 BULLETIN PROGRAMMES GUIDE See also: | Asia-Pacific In pictures: Indonesian bombings 13 Sep 00 | Asia-Pacific Analysis: Indonesia's fragile archipelago 07 Dec 00 | Asia-Pacific Moluccas Christians bombed 25 Sep 00 | Asia-Pacific Violence flares across Indonesia 02 Jul 00 | Asia-Pacific Analysis: Behind the Moluccan violence 14 Jul 00 | Asia-Pacific Moluccan militants: God on our side Internet links: Indonesia Online Indonesian Government The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites Other top Asia-Pacific stories: Bombs target Indonesian churches Japan boosts military might Stand-off in Korean bank protest Chinese robbers face shoot-to-kill policy Philippines reflects during trial recess Australian flights hit by delays Whales swim to freedom Fears over Japan's ageing population Links to top Asia-Pacific stories are at the foot of the page.
Steve <the xmas disco version of Fog On The Tyne was good?????.>
bet you never heard that one PeteC, - Monday, December 25, 2000 at 01:35:58 (GMT)

Happy [insert whatever here] to all... Here's my non denominational poem by Paul Eluard, French poet,: "Worker" // Seeing timber in the trees // Roads into the mountains // In the days of youth, days of strength // Bending iron and shaping stone // adorning nature // Nature without her dress // I work.
derik
- Monday, December 25, 2000 at 00:25:51 (GMT)

happy christmas-i love you baby.speak to you all later
kev <kevforster@btinternet.com>
worthing, uk - Monday, December 25, 2000 at 00:05:49 (GMT)

Hi Carsten: I know you don't celebrate Christmas, but that doesn't mean I can't have your wee ones in my thoughts. How's Belfast? I really liked the city when I visited there. A lovely place with lovely people.
Carol
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 23:32:10 (GMT)

hi brian.. how is the little one taking all the excitment?
keri
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 23:29:21 (GMT)

hi brian.. how is the little one taking all the excitment?
keri
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 23:29:16 (GMT)

best xmas OFAH: A Royal Flush - when del pulls out the sawn-off pump action shotgun at the clay-pigeon shoot is fantastic
Brian
London, UK - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 23:16:04 (GMT)

nobody mentioned Christmas in Hollis by Run DMC - oh yeah - cos its rubbish
Brian
London, UK - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 23:12:58 (GMT)

Thanks very much, Carol. Cian‡n & Niamh don't celebrate Christmas (they'll get their pressies on New Year's Day) but we all still wish you a great winter holiday! --- Steve, ye ol' fruit cake, now you're really exaggerating: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/asia-pacific/newsid_1086000/1086275.stm
Carsten
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 22:32:37 (GMT)

My three favorite Christmas songs have already been mentioned: Fairy Tale of New York, Merry Christams (baby please come home) and of course, Lennon's Happy Chirstmas, War is Over. Siobhan, Theo, Carsten and Rob, please give your respective little ones Christmas hugs from me. Here's to all the lovely children I met in England and Ireland: Cianan, Jack, Ruby, Tillie, Chloe--you are all in my thoughts this Christas Eve.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 21:52:22 (GMT)

I dedicate today to Kirsty MacColl..and the following lines from Fairy Tale of New York, apply them where they fit...."You took my dreams, from me when I first found you, I kept them with me babe, I put them with my own, Can't make it alone, I've built my dreams around you"
Steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
Merry Xmas Bill and family, Corrina and Toby, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 21:34:49 (GMT)

IITTTSS XXXXXXMMMMMMMAAAAAAASSSSSSSSSSSSSS
steve
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 21:28:10 (GMT)

John Lennon's..Happy Xmas (war is over) is my fave xmas record
steve
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 21:27:32 (GMT)

Best Christmas Song: Merry Christmas (Baby please come home) by Darlene Love. And love to all of you.
Barbara
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 20:59:24 (GMT)

How lucky were Middlesbrough to get away from Tottenham with a point ? OK, it's Christmas.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 20:47:59 (GMT)

If i put forward Mogwai's "Christmas Steps" as the best christmas tune ever, will i be laughed at? Nah fuck it, the best christmas song ever is undoubtedly the Fairytale of New York :) Happy festivities folks!
pete w <aaaaargh>
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 20:17:49 (GMT)

A Merry Christmas to all, hope you have an excellent Christmas and Merry New Year! Peace and Love to ALL Regards Craig.. Hull UK
Craig
Hull, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 20:16:33 (GMT)

happy christmas gang! i hope everyone enjoys a peaceful holiday season with friends and family. just 7 days until my present to myself. ERIN: don't work too hard...
keri
nowhere, ny , again!!! - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 17:37:22 (GMT)

Quiet here today, ah well. Merry Xmas all, and to echo Northern Teen. Best Christmas Song Fairytale of New York, closely followed by The Ramones Merry Christmas, Best Christmas film / program is tied by Bert Raccoon's Christmas and Charlie Brown's Christmas, unless there's a Simpsons Christmas.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 16:54:08 (GMT)

Merry Christmas everybody! (Even those Sunderland and Spurs supporters out there!) Best Christmas Song: that one by Mike Oldfield Best Christmas Film: "Muppet's Christmas Carol" - superb. Best Christmas Only Fools&Horses: the one with Peckham Spring Water
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 15:28:19 (GMT)

good result today dyl...a goal in the last 5 minutes for northampton, have amerry holiday
steve
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 13:03:25 (GMT)

Happy Christmas to all on the guestbook. If you don't celebrate Christmas then I wish you peace and happiness!
Dyl
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 12:45:41 (GMT)

xmas eve...and Ive just got back from church..hahahaha..(joke)...been up to a nearby mountain, star watching and saw two shooting stars??..eeekkk...just fancied some good old fashioned xmas music in front of my air conditoning unit and blowing fan as its 38c...so I put on The Mighty Fall's 'Live at the Witch Trials'.I'd forgot how good it was..now for a little gentle Grotesque from The Fall..I bought some appalachian music, lots of geordie references and coalmining type songs
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
leave the capital exit this roman shell, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 12:37:23 (GMT)

....and have a go at the quiz while you are there ! Closing date is 31st December 2000
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 06:51:41 (GMT)

Billy Bragg with John Peel and crew in a seasonal singalong from 1996 - your MP3 gift from Braggtopia! To collect your present go to : - http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg - and select the tab for MP3 Downloads. - Ho! Ho! Ho! - Braggtopia! The Ultimate Billy Bragg Website http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 06:49:11 (GMT)

Paul was that freudian slip??
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 04:28:04 (GMT)

Nevski said .."im quite impressed with steves recent preachings. he is now my church" ... ..YOU DONT NEED A CHURCH NEVSKI..as an atheist I have no belief in a creator ...a big difference, dont confuse athiesm as a faith -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOME OTHER SUPERSTITOUS PERSON FULL OF FEAR ALSO SPOUTED..." In many places the land shall be left untilled, and there shall be great slaughters of the upper class. The right hand of the world shall fear the left, and the north shall prevail over the south. Hmmm..." THE HHMM AT THE END IS SO FUNNY...legends myths fear and superstitions , may your xmas be free from the shackles of them all.....Siobahn I have a friend who is a Hindu and just became a Swami...although it doesnt stop her driving a personalised number plate on a mercedes and wearing $250.000 of jewllery and being a nasty bastard most of the time..Hindu's have to be one of the biggest groups of religious hypocrites Ive ever come across.
steve <sunderland 1 v 0 man city>
phew, - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 04:26:47 (GMT)

Steve, I thought of you as my six year old asked me to write her a letter excusing her from the carol service. Truth is however, that her best friend is a hindu and she wasn't going. I wrote the letter anyway. So, much love and peace to all at the BBgb (something that has brightened up my year no end).
siobhan
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 03:16:03 (GMT)

ooops! no xmas for john quays
paul griffiths <pablogriffo@netscape.net>
perth, australia - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 02:37:28 (GMT)

on xmas for john quays
paul griffiths <pablogriffo@netscape.net>
perth, australia - Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 02:35:09 (GMT)

But Pete, Durruti and Carol are right. It's always a victory. It's always worth it.
Barbara <beofgoodcheer@wintersolsticetime>
- Sunday, December 24, 2000 at 00:40:41 (GMT)

I wish I could be that optmistic...... I kniow this is sad, but tonnight i wrote "!No Pasaran!" on my black guitar, and "Vicisti, O aspidistra!" on my anmp speaker....
pete w <rock revolutionary/commidified dissent>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 23:50:37 (GMT)

Happy Holidays all. I never think of our Winter Solstice romp as religious--but it is a time for us to collectively celebrate renewal, peace and light. So for my friends here on the guestbook (and especially Barbara, Robin, and Sonja) here is something that Buenaventura Durruti, the anarchist who was killed in the Spanish Civil War, said. His words help me through some long, dark nights: "It may be that we shall lose our next battle, in the bourgeois sense of the word; but to fight and lose a battle must enver effect a revolutionarty, because he must know that his trusted weapon is always the struggle for the casuse he believes in...therefore the simple act of joining battle is a victory in itself."
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 21:44:45 (GMT)

IT'S SOO COLD I WILL STAY LOCKED IN MY ROOM HIDING IN MY WARM BED UNTIL JUNE WELL THERE IS SNOW FOR CHRISTMAS
kicker <kickerlib@yaho.com>
hamilton, canada - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 21:44:15 (GMT)

Red hair and glasses and separated at birth· *grin*... if only I could get the same music out of my Strat that Larry Kirwan can from his. Anyway, for all you UK posters: Larryās hoping to tour solo over here in March, and, even more excitingly, is trying very hard to get the band over here for the Fleadh and a short tour next June. Just to serve advanced notice that I will be calling a three-line whip when this guy finally hits these shores. Believe me, you do not want to miss him.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 19:33:12 (GMT)

Happy Holidays to the folks that celebrate and Happy Holidays to the rest of you anyway. Sonj and Alberr, warmest greetings from the Ingalls. Carol, you must get well soon so I may drink with you at Specs. Robin, keep kicking righteous ass you excellent Commie babe (say hi to Ariel for me)
Barbara <iactuallyhavetogofuckingshopping>
oy!, - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 18:31:49 (GMT)

Sonja: you never did send me your new postal address so your Chrissie card is still sitting on my table. But Merry Xmas everybody. The Danish xmas is tomorrow but we'll be celebrating on 25th, too! Duck on Sunday and Turkey on Monday (clearly not a vegetarian, then :))
Tettland
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 18:28:37 (GMT)

Christmas sucks
Desert Rat Shorty <http://desertratshorty.homestead.com>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 18:25:03 (GMT)

Happy festive season every body. Get well soon Carol!!!
sonj
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 17:51:35 (GMT)

hi robin, the bragg office have worked out that i can only use my free cable tv access when the BBgb is a few pages long. Otherwise i have to pay to use my pc modem connection, that is if i had one to use which i haven't at the moment, so i'm with you.
sonj <well, it makes sense to me!>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 17:48:32 (GMT)

Also - it ties up Internet Explorer so I don't even have the option to go to another page until this page loads. We don't really need more than two weeks at a time of You-Know-Whose rants and the reactions to them.
Red Robin
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 17:44:56 (GMT)

To the Bragg Office: Please consider archiving the posts here every two weeks or so. This page takes forever to load and eats up a ton of memory. It has crashed my computer the previous 3 times I tried to log in here. No other site in recent memory has done this to my computer. TIA.
Red Robin
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 17:41:00 (GMT)

Pete Crook & Larry Kirwin seperated at birth? Nice photo's Pete.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 17:15:59 (GMT)

Does anybody Know where I can get a copy of The Peel Sessions or any album with A13 Trunk Road to the Sea on it?
Pete gedling <pgedling@hotmail.com>
Epping, England - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 15:16:12 (GMT)

nevski - You just helped a certain someone reach a certain quota, and get a little closer to a certain non god. Perhaps I've just witnessed non christmas miracle. How wonderful.
Michael <keepingitreal@stupid>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 15:10:44 (GMT)

im quite impressed with steves recent preachings. he is now my church. happy 2 days off work for no reason... st mon day and st tues day. see u all in the millenium.. hang on, i dont know what to believe in anymore....
nevski <santaclaus is drunk>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 13:13:24 (GMT)

Talking about prophecies, this is what St. Anthony the Abbot said in the 4th Century...In the 20th century there will be wars and fury that will last a long time; whole provinces shall be emptied of their inhabitants, and kingdoms shall be thrown into confusion. In many places the land shall be left untilled, and there shall be great slaughters of the upper class. The right hand of the world shall fear the left, and the north shall prevail over the south. Hmmm...
xxxxxx
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 12:48:45 (GMT)

For anyone who's interested, my pics of Larry Kirwan's recent gig in Wexford are here: http://home.btclick.com/pete.crook/billy/photos/wexford/wexford.htm.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 10:33:30 (GMT)

Or even 99999 out of 100000...
Pete
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 09:19:42 (GMT)

And on a slightly bizarre note (I only ever watch the news and football on TV, so am not in a position to comment): both my partner Jill and son Seth absolutely INSIST that Darren Hanlon's "Beta Losers", from his "Early Days" CD, is used on a UK TV advert for The Gap. Anyone ? I'm not about to slag him if this is the case: it's just that I find it too bizarre to be true, given that 999 out of 1000 Brits would say "Darren who ?"
Pete
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 09:11:40 (GMT)

Heh. Thanks for the grammatical correction Geoff, but hey, I'm a Cockney (well, by proxy), and we're allowed to get away with stuff like that...
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 09:06:19 (GMT)

http://www.whiskypriests.co.uk/photos.htm...SOME GOOD PHOTOS HERE OF THE GEORDIE BAND WHISKY PRIESTS..also they have a new project...Gary and Glenn Miller celebrate their 15th Anniversary as The Whisky Priests, and marks the birth of their new project, Mad Dogs and Englishmen, an acoustic trio, which also features Joseph Porter of Blyth Power...be there or be silly
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 07:44:52 (GMT)

eeekkk..another sign
sh
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 07:38:38 (GMT)

so this is xmas.....
rokerite
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 07:38:06 (GMT)

so this is xmas.....
rokerite
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 07:37:59 (GMT)

refusing supernatural programming is not preaching...keep it simple stupid...xxxx..fuck god fuck jesus fuck the shite that goes with it...tell you what though the pease pudding is something else...PeteW if your grannie is still around tell her its the best recipe Ive used..
steve <godless in the sun>
laugh you miserable bastards, (:>) - Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 07:34:40 (GMT)

Steve: get out tonight to see 'those bloody mckennas' at the normanby hotel - normanby fiveways petrie terrace.
geoff
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 06:55:50 (GMT)

Steve ö Keep preaching your whatever... It's quite whatever... I just finished a full helping of whatever and it was absolutely whatever...
Michael <yourhatred@whatever>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 05:02:46 (GMT)

youll be sorry you laughed when youre in agony. i see satan claws (oh come on, he wears red - hes obviously the devil incarnate) has really worked his evil magic on your sorry ass, there is still time, repent now and your soul will be saved.
hester
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 04:50:05 (GMT)

I won a ham, so Im making some pease pudding anyone fancy some
steve
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 04:46:28 (GMT)

dont forget I stood on the terraces of Sunderland AFC for 25 years, Ive been to hell and back..an inflicted catholic once said I will be shovelling soot for eternity??..I replied my ancestors have been doing it underground for 300 years, now fuck off....lol
steve
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 04:44:50 (GMT)

hahahahahahahahahahaha...more
steve
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 04:40:42 (GMT)

steve - well maybe it is a sign. lets face it, yahweh will smite you down with his vengeful and mighty wrath, you unbeleiver you - youll spend the rest of eternity burning in the firey bowels of hell, youll suffer torments that make the holocaust look like an ickle kiddies game. then youll look up to heaven and see all the lovely blonde haired, blue eyed american children playing in a nice suburban garden, and think back, and wish youd been more open minded about the significance of that cd...
hester
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 04:38:16 (GMT)

siobhan, I worked 80 hours this week and do I need this break, snapped up some cheeky cds today...northumbrian pipe music by joe hutton,...swan lake cd...Bob Dylan's New Morning..The Ruts Ruts album..and John Babbecombe Lee by Fairport Convention..awesome story...I ordered Nee Gud Luck by the whisky priests and amazon sent me a religous cd instead(bastards)...now some theist will tell me its a sign...(:)...come on Boro sunderland need you to beat spurs(sorry petec)
steve
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 03:31:10 (GMT)

happy birthday jesus ......you little shit you, and while were on, look at the fucking misery and hatred and death & starvation you have caused for 2000 years, thank fuck you and your (sadly in need of threapy) disciples(church worshippers) are on the decline, and the quicker people realise your silly twat of a dad is an imaginery totem the better...but overall a clever book of libels is the bible...merry xmas..(:)
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 03:22:10 (GMT)

well, I'm sickeningly jealous of all this holiday talk since i)we have no snow, ii)I am working on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, iii)I have bought my children too many presents and not paid the phone bill, iv) I waited on a party of 40 (forty) nurses last night and they never left a tip (and no service charge in my restaurant). Happy Christmas your arse
siobhan <Bah humbug@bitter and twisted.com>
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 02:07:20 (GMT)

Actually, that's a very enjoyable link for us old farties, Northern Teen! All the tracks from the first 80% of the old Festive Fifty section were recognizable to me, who is unaware of the world of music since ~1985...
Boguespierre
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 01:52:50 (GMT)

is no one gonna wish the lovely baby jesus a happy birthday? you HEATHENS!!!!
hester
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 00:18:44 (GMT)

PeteC: shouldn't that be "Seth, Jack and I will be there"? - sorry, couldn't resist that one!
geoff
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 00:18:29 (GMT)

HAPPY HANUKKA!!! ok its a whole 9 minutes late, but im sorry!!
hester
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 00:16:55 (GMT)

In 1555, Nostradamus wrote: "Come the millennium, month twelve, in the home of greatest power, The village idiot will come forth to be acclaimed the leader."
Red Robin
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 00:03:54 (GMT)

See ya down the Railway Tavern on White Hart Lane, then...
Pete
- Saturday, December 23, 2000 at 00:00:18 (GMT)

COME ON BORO
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:55:02 (GMT)

Tottenham v Middlesbrough tomorrow, of course, and me, Seth, and Jack will be there...
Pete
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:48:24 (GMT)

of course the words Dick Turpin posted at.... Friday, December 22, 2000 at 18:34:08 (GMT)are the words to the Majestic Alan Hull song 'Winter Song'...nothing but a classic....Have a great holiday PeteC...and love to your family and everyone else Ive battled with, insulted, pissed off and made great friends with...but scooter arent you being rather elitist to say people are blinkered because they dont agree with you?...people may make more informed opinions than you imagine...WHEN we all engage in ritual superstitous behaviour this Xmas and hand gifts over in the name of a idol(christ) remember the real christianity is the medievil christianity and all the cruelties that go with it
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
33c inbrisbane, have a good one Geoff, Theo, Kim, Laura, Derek,Luther,Teen,Petec,PeteW,Pam, Jon, Jon??.. - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:38:58 (GMT)

Sorry about this. I won't waste anymore space with my pointless ramblings
Northern Teen <BBBBBored>
boooooooRED, bored. - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:17:42 (GMT)

BRING BACK THE TERRACES!
Northern Teen
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:16:44 (GMT)

don't talk to me about Dawson's Creek. It's just mush. It's for girls. It is the most unrealistic thing on tele - teenagers aren't like that. real life isn't like that. yet people say there's valuable life lessons in it & that teenagers associate with it. b*llocks man! if you think your life's like that, you're living in a dream
Northern Teen <bored>
borrrrrred, bOrEd - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:15:25 (GMT)

Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Why don't they just put it out of its misery. Surely one of the rubbishest shows on tv. Amazing, because the first series was superb - excitement&goodstorylines&smglookinglikeafox - but then the b@stards strayed into Dawson's Creek territory. uuuuurrrrgh. no more romance i can't stand it anymore
Northern Teen <bored>
bored city, boredom - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:12:51 (GMT)

boring boring boring BORING boring aaaaarrrrrggh. i think i'll download some atari teenage riot songs
Northern Teen
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:09:33 (GMT)

Hey people, did anyone notice that Billy Bragg was on John Peel's Festive Fifty programme the other night? He was taking part in the celebrity quiz with Peely mastering, and Jarvis Cocker, Graham Coxon and some bloke from Hefner joining Billy to battle it out. Dunno who won, like. Mr Bragg was apparently pratting around in the background throwing bits of paper at everyone. You can listen to all these capers by going to http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/djs/peel_festive_fifty_special.shtml But don't bother anyway, it's a bit sh** really
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 23:07:17 (GMT)

Its OK Michael. I can see the connection. I remember the Two Booths in Park Slope. They would give the kids tiny pieces of dough to play with. It was one of the few places, where children could be kept busy and they had food for adults. Only bar in NYC (to my knowledge) that Anchor Steam Beer on tap.
James
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 20:48:00 (GMT)

michael... it's close to my work and it's cheap. plus i don't like a ton of crap on my pizza--like two boots.
keri
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 20:38:14 (GMT)

Keri - I'll have to visit The Pizza Box. Is it better than Two Boots pizza? James - I'm Sorry for linking Octavio Paz to The Gang of Nine.
Michael
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 20:30:27 (GMT)

Though Steve (the Mackem from Brisbane via Sunderland) and I will always have our differences, I was listening to a quite wonderful tape of Alan Hull / Lindisfarne's music which Steve sent to me (cheers Steve), whilst in the wild wasteland of Hayes in West London (Steve Perryman territory NB) in that ridiculous search for elusive Christmas presents for the kids. It was so incongruous it wasn't true: there was Jacka screaming in me ear about socialism while I was queueing up at Argos.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 20:11:17 (GMT)

Michael, I hope not. The Florida papers are acting on their own. As for that "quote", I would not insult the great Octavio Paz, buy associating him with that despicable body, collectively known as "THE US SUPREME COURT"
James
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 19:59:19 (GMT)

Thanks for that James, but are you sure you are not quoting the US Supreme Court?
Michael
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 19:13:03 (GMT)

Illiterate I raised my face to the sky that huge stone of worn-out letters but the stars told me nothing
Octavio Paz
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 19:05:39 (GMT)

Instead of kicking the asses of "stupid sheep" voters, Luther, you may want to consider the simple fact that punch card voting machines (which are far more prevalent in poorer voting districts) produced five times as many of the so-called "under votes" than the more modern, optical scanning machines (which are far more prevalent in richer communities). Therefore, over 30,000 of the 40,000 people in Florida were denied their most fundamental American right because of their economic status.
Michael
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 18:59:07 (GMT)

When Winter's shadowy fingers first pursue you down the street/And your boots no longer lie about the cold around your feet/Do you spare a thought for Summer who's passage is complete?/Whose memories lie in ruins and whose ruins lie in heat/When Winter...comes howlin' in...
Dick Turpin (or Palmer if you prefer) <Black-Bess@myth.co.uk>
York, UK - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 18:34:08 (GMT)

looking forward to seeing Billy & the Boys at the Bottom Line Dec 30. Very sad news on the tragic death of Billy's friend and great singer Kirsty MacColl, and of 10,000 Maniacs lead guitarist Robert Buck, both will be terribly missed.
Mike Messina <mmtwenty3@aol.com>
Maspeth, NY, USA - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 18:31:07 (GMT)

We have about 2" of snow in beautiful New Paltz. It looks cool hanging on the trees. The election nonsence is not going to go away that easy. Using a application from the Freedom Of Inormation Act, two Florida based newspapers are filing suit demanding to "count the votes themselves. If they determine Gore actually recieved the plurality of votes, it will cast doubt (which already exists) as to the ligitimacy of his presidency. (Ha!) Will that mean we can refer to him as the Bastard President remains to be seen. What a sad week Kristy McCall, Robeuck Staples, Milt Hinton (upright basist) all passed away.
james
New Paltz, - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 18:08:18 (GMT)

If you're looking to kick some ass, Jessica, you'd better include all the stupid sheep who trudged down to the polls, palm cards in hand, and did as they were told rather than thinking for themselves. http://www.worldnetdaily.com/bluesky_exnews/20001121_xex_condo_comman.shtml
Luther Gaylord
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 17:47:43 (GMT)

Is anyone able to tell me when Billy's album is coming out based on Woody Guthrie's Children's songs? Thanks and have a merry Christmas all....
scooter <sadlingt@Lww.com>
Baltimore, USA - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 17:26:28 (GMT)

Happy Holidays everyone! I'll be in FloriDUH for Christmas. I'm planning to give Jeb Bush, Katherine Harris, and half the residents of West Palm a swift kick in the ass. Anyone else I'm forgetting?
Jessica <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 16:56:50 (GMT)

ok, everyone who doesn't want to be at work today raise your hand...
keri
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 16:54:14 (GMT)

The flurries are lovely. . . but it never sticks in our concrete jungle.
Jessica <ilovepizzaboxonbleekertoo>
NYC, - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 16:49:05 (GMT)

michael--i'd have to go with papa johns... but living in new york one doesn't dare eat chain store pizzas.
keri <pizzaboxonbleecker>
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 15:38:28 (GMT)

you too derik... but isn't the snow lovely? i love it.
keri
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 15:09:51 (GMT)

Happy holidays to all (whatever one you celebrate or ignore). Time for my week off.
derik <aargh, snowing again in Philly!>
- Friday, December 22, 2000 at 14:26:43 (GMT)

Apologies if this isnāt of relevance, but please note that if anyone is sending (or has sent over the past two days) email to my work address, I wonāt get to see it Ītil January 8. Please just use petecrook@bigfoot.com for now. Ta.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 09:00:36 (GMT)

Apparently, "The American public doesn't need the Supreme Court to tell them which pizza they like better," we simply need them to determine the presidency... http://www.boston.com/news/daily/21/pizza_fight.htm
Michael
Thin Crust, New Jersey - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 01:21:38 (GMT)

The Guardian are holding an online 'chat' in the notes & queries section, glad to see that Bill has 2 enteries.."All my friends from school Introduce me to their spouses While I'm left standing here With my hands down the front of my trousis" and "Like a bully boy in a Benetton shop, Your never happy with what you've got, until what you've got has gone,,,,," Now if I can only figure out how to submit to this.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 23:45:52 (GMT)

Good luck, Sonja....you have my support, however insignificant and crappy it may be. And yes, I think I am obliged to be posh now, but I will endevour to purge the taint left on Lady Margaret Hall college by the presence of Anne Widdecombe :) the only other alumni mentioned was Benazir Bhutto.....
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 22:57:10 (GMT)

Sonj: "I am suffering BBgb withdrawal symptoms." ...ditto....but I would like to wish everyone here at the BBgb a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. I'll be heading to a computer-free environment down in Kentucky till after New Years, so I'd like to wish y'all seasons greetings now. Sonj, my prayers are with you and Alberr in re yr. job situation....they are saying we are going to see economic problems here in the USA, too... year...I don't know what the new year will bring....alot of uncertainty and change, no doubt. But at least we in Ohio are having a very white Christmas...its' snowed in Kentucky too, this year...snow brightens up this gloomy time.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton,OH, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 21:23:42 (GMT)

I guess the real sad thing for me about this is that Kirstys two kids where present when that happened, and that it happened so close to Christmas (and to think she is known for a Christmas tune, too...).
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 21:16:29 (GMT)

I've just been re-reading the quotes on "Galore", from Bill, Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Shane McGowan and all. Actually David Byrne's is the best, by far, and to which there is no answer: "The voice of an angel, from a mind and heart inflamed by Thatcher's England."
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 20:15:47 (GMT)

The centuries have changed little in this art, // The subjects are still the same. // ćFor Christās sake take off your clothes and get into bed, // We are not going to live forever.ä // ćPetals fall from the rose,ä -K. Rexroth excerpted from "August 22, 1939"
derik <non sequitur>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 19:52:23 (GMT)

have just been reading the messages on Kirsty MacColls web-site - lots of beautiful/heartfelt words on there - I wonder if she knew how much she meant to so many people (most of who had never met her) Sonj: I never knew things were that grim - I hope everything pans out right for you - you deserve it
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 19:40:55 (GMT)

ASDA! If it's anything like the place near us, the customer services announcements were advising the customers to blink and breath once in a while. I'm not saying it's rough, but it has a sign above the door "You are now leaving the gene pool"
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 18:48:09 (GMT)

Sonj, Mr & Mrs me are keeping our fingers x'd for you. TIP, don't apply for work in a callcenter, they're doing their seasonal sweep in our place at the moment to save a measly handful of pounds on the xmas bonus (which they don't get anyway!) Have a good xmas.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 18:46:20 (GMT)

Happy Festival of Lights
Barbara <sonjandalberronlydeservegoodthings>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:59:25 (GMT)

the danish of should have been og. (sorry about that)
sonj <boycotting walmart, off to the local co-op>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:57:48 (GMT)

pete, i've just spotted the name of your uni! are you posh now:)
sonj
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:55:52 (GMT)

sonj-i heard about the buy out when i was last in england... year and 1/2 ago?. fuck. i can't believe it went through... actually i'm not surprised. say goodbye to high street. ok, erin, that's a horrible example of globalization. walmarts should never have left bentonville. ahhhhhhhhh well, that ruined my day. boycott sonj... it might be cheaper at walmart... but the price later is unbelievable.
keri
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:43:56 (GMT)

Hi Carol. thanks for your message of support! It looks as if neither alberr or i will know if we have got a job after January until after christmas. However had a lovely lunch with Lisa today (told her it was the last time mum would pay:) her little house is looking even posher now with a Danish christmas tree (hjaerter of jul lys) and a dog basket to match the sofa.
sonj & mr magoo
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:43:34 (GMT)

keri, it's the big american supermarket (walmart?)that have taken over Asda in the UK. It is on the site where the co-op hypermarket used to be which is even sadder. Apparently the Cd was being played by 'Asda fm' ... yuk
sonj
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:39:41 (GMT)

Hi Sonja: It's heartbreaking about Kirsty. We are collectively hoping for a job opportunity for you(the ones you never get to quote the Clash)-- I'm sure you'll get one. Being laid off is really difficult--stressful, tearful and causes sleepless nights. When I was laid off I was told everything works out for the best and new opportunities would open up. Yeah, like shit they did. I took a huge cut in salary. But keep a going--I think Kipling said that. Anyway, there must be an old socialists home for the likes of you and me. A utopian paradise for our old age.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Franicsco, - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:37:38 (GMT)

Very much negative.
derik
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:33:41 (GMT)

Derik, was that a negative thing, slow and painful, or did you like it that way?
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:33:02 (GMT)

sonj... that isn't walmart is it?
keri
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:28:19 (GMT)

amongst all the bad stuff this week i received a gorgeous picture of an angel which warmed my heart. Tilly is a star!
sonj
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:27:41 (GMT)

hester and pete, pleased to hear from you. Carol, i will mail kate from the tv tomorrow.
sonj <end of messages ... for now ...>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:22:14 (GMT)

I thought the slowed down Blokes version of Minor Key was extremely slow and painful.
derik
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:19:58 (GMT)

I am suffering BBgb withdrawal symptoms. Yesterday i had a temper tantrum and burst into tears in front of the whole HR department, Think my chances of getting a job have just got worse. Today i lost my cool with the hapless staff in Wallmart because the Kirsty and the Pogues christmas song was playing over the loudspeaker system and being constantly interrupted by 'customer services anouncements'. Thanks to the man in the queue who was a Kirsty and a Bragg fan who said how lovely she was. Thanks for passing on my message tett. However shitty my life may seem right now it is a damn sight better than Kirsty's family.
sonj <still cyber deprived @home but looking forward to a long christmas break. Hopefully not too long.... no job yet!>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:19:21 (GMT)

Well I tried to initiate a unabomber conversation and everyone turned into a muppet. I was hoping the political experts would get their teeth into Teddy K's theories on liberals but they didn't lower themselves. Here's a serious idea though: Hey Bragg Office! Tell Bill I reckon he should re-record "Minor Key" in his January sessions, with the Blokes and put it on the new record even though it's already had a release, or at least make the new version a b-side. Why? Because the Blokes version; slowed down and slightly epic with the massive chorus harmonies is 100 x better than the pretty-good demo version (sorry) on Mermaid Avenue. I was astonished how big, lush and beautiful it sounded. Suits their instrumentation and Mac's Hammond so well.
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 17:06:28 (GMT)

You are all wimps. I'm going to the Boney M site. They know how to kick ass there.
Biffa
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 16:31:02 (GMT)

pick a topic chris...
keri
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 16:30:59 (GMT)

WHO'S SHOUTING? Are you looking for a fight?
Biffa
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 16:23:06 (GMT)

Urm... so is this banter worse or better than Gaylord and people shouting at each-other?
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 16:20:30 (GMT)

Sounds like a rear-'gunnar' to me.
Biffa
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 16:02:35 (GMT)

Gunnar is my beautiful, blonde brother.
Matthew Nelson <ozzie&harrietrule@grandparents.com>
USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:42:31 (GMT)

Does anybody feel like fighting me? I could do with smashing someone's face in. Come on, I'll take on anyone.
Biffa
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:42:19 (GMT)

he was too busy doing deep-breathing exercises with dirty feet.
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:29:01 (GMT)

Chris: Gunner didn't sing "Lost in the Flood".
scooter
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:21:55 (GMT)

Actually, Scooter is Sticker's girlfriend in the Springsteen song 'Lost In The Flood'. Or is that Gunner?
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:19:51 (GMT)

Tell me, why is it so bloody hard being green? Whinger.
scooter
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 15:10:19 (GMT)

Scooter?? What kind of Sesame Street name is that?
Kermit
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:58:42 (GMT)

Perhaps the intentions but definitely not the actions.
scooter
Baltimore, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:51:02 (GMT)

I do.
Unabomber
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:47:59 (GMT)

Not a loaded question, just interested: Are there people here who support the intentions or the actions of the Unabomber?
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:46:09 (GMT)

Well said Keri. There's always that half hour or hour in a day where you can do something to help, whatever the cause is you're passionate about. Write a letter, make a phone call, make a box of sandwiches and hand them out.
scooter
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:45:42 (GMT)

To all at Bragg home base, and all who are fans of Kirsty MacColl. Please accept my deepest condolences for the sad news of Kirsty's death. Thank you for the days, Kirsty. Stephanie from New York/Baltimore
steph <stephew@aol.com>
Baltimore, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:45:22 (GMT)

Help save the youth of America indeed!!
George Dubbaya
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:41:21 (GMT)

but derik, but what if you could find one hour a week to do something... i know the world would be a better place if i could get my ass out of the pub and hit the streets to help homeless people.
keri
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:38:05 (GMT)

Luther: I don't envy your job. This population has to be the toughest to enlighten the philosophy of. Americans live in a vacuum and educating them that things can be different here can border on impossible. You ever see those race horses run around in circles with blinkers on?
scooter
Baltimore, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:28:53 (GMT)

I'd venture that the reason most people do not want to have radical political change is: a) they feel secure and well off (do not want to risk losing security) b) they do not have time to devote to creating change (the people who are really in need spend too much time trying to be able to pay rent/food and when they are not working want time to relax). If one spends 9+ hours a day working at some crap job to pay rent and buy food, when you get home you are not all that motivated to go out and put in more work (regardless of the reason). Another thing I have noticed, at least in the Philly area, is many political actions and such occur during the day when most people (except the full time 'revolutionaries') have jobs.
derik
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 14:26:27 (GMT)

erin, i can't believe it's been 5 years already. today is the fateful day. a slip and a tumble nearly changed my life forever. who would have thought kate would be cutting my pizza for me at pizza express or i would haul my ass to john radcliff hospital 3 times a week... life is precious. i'm going to see *a hard days night* in the theater tonight. it's all about harrison.
keri
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 12:59:59 (GMT)

A friend remembers Kirsty MacColl: http://www.guardianunlimited.co.uk/Archive/Article/0,4273,4108623,00.html Still in shock :(
Tettland
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 11:02:49 (GMT)

careful about the gloating nothern teen, the boro have a long finish to the season and are not exactly at the right end of the league..(:)
steve <I have Kirsty on video tonight>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 10:26:39 (GMT)

anarcho-syndicalism...hahahaha(lot's of that in sunderland..(:)) the only chance you have of achieving that is to recruit the middle classes in some sort of boredom hobby( a bit like the russioan nobility)...you know, Luther is so right to pursue the question why do people accept the way things are...why do people not want to revolt for socialism, that's because the vast majority of everyday people doen't FEEL the need, they dont DESIRE such change, they don't WANT to upset there daily lives, most are HAPPY with the way things are,they dont want to put there families security at risk..However calling them sheep is disgustingly crass...I wish Robert Tressell could have sat through Billy Elliot, nowts changed has it, as alan hull sang about the jarrow march "if your still down there your working class can anybody tell me what has changed"...PeteC have you got to the whisky priests yet on the tape
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
sunderland /brisbane, - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 10:24:29 (GMT)

You would think some people who perpetually have their heads up their asses would have suffocated by now... ********
Red Robin
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 03:33:00 (GMT)

James: Enjoy your fantasy world. I guess it keeps you from actually having to *do something* . . . I believe it was F.A. Hayek who said, "First, capitalism will destroy Ayn Rand-fixated, illiterate government workers, and then the rest of the idiots." Or maybe I made that up.
Bob
USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 03:22:27 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Billy! Many happy returns. In addition to Kristy's untimely passing, we also lost Robuck "Pop" Staples, founder of the Staple Singers. Pop was one of the last Robert Johnson type guitar players, who played and sang with an incredible amount of conviction. Bob, nobody is "trying" to destroy Capitalism. It was Lenin who said that "Capitalists will compete to sell you the rope in which to hang them with" Like a wild fire, it will consume itself (hopefully we won't be consumed as well)
James
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 03:02:09 (GMT)

Happy Birthday once again Billy. Sorry to all I've offended with my role in the pissing match during this sad time. "When the lights go out in the rest of the World What do our cousins say..." http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/image/0011/earthlights_dmsp_big.jpg
Michael
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 02:33:21 (GMT)

Just wanted to wish Bill a belated Happy Birthday. You're catching up to me, old timer! :) (If you actually do, though, it means I died...)
Red Robin <rjbmuse@yahoo.com>
NJ, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 01:47:07 (GMT)

Kirsty's untimely death made the front of yesterday's 'Torygraph' too (I didn't buy it) FWIW, strangely (or not) everyone in my office knew who she was in spite of her fairly low profile - and they aren't all music buffs.
Jon D <joinedup@yahoo.co.uk>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:55:58 (GMT)

You know, I'm still feeling shitty about Kirsty, and I log on here to find friendly voices...and ye're all arguing the toss about politics... ye silly tossers life is TOO SHORT...go home (or go out) open up a bottle and drink to the dear departed...we will never see her like again. "Miss Otis regrets she's unable to lunch today."
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
heart of the bog, Ireland - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:53:33 (GMT)

Aaaargh! I just found out that Anne Widdecombe is an alumnus of my college! *screams and faints* (cheers jeff and siobhan :))
pete w <hadrcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:52:16 (GMT)

Aaaargh! I just found out that Anne Widdecombe is an ulumnus of my college! *screams and faints* (cheers jeff and siobhan :))
pete w <hadrcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:52:09 (GMT)

Hey, don't call me a st00pid fukkin sheep! That's kinda mean. This shit has been going on for quite some time, and in case you've forgotten, we've got a really bad-ass military that will crush revolutionaries here as fast as anywhere. U sound like u think it's so damn easy, Luther. It's not. There are lots of us here who know how messed up it all is. Just try not to insult us, please.
d1g1grl <fudog66@earthlink.net>
Texas, US - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:30:57 (GMT)

All I wanted to do was wish Billy a happy birthday, but on the way to do just that, I find out about Kirsty. This is very sad. I suppose we should all bow to the Buddha nature within ourselves and the whole world, and toss it up to the great circle of life.
d1g1grl <fudog66@earthlink.net>
Texas, US - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:26:51 (GMT)

I'm not a Marxist, and I don't agree with Carol's assertion that capitalism will destroy itself. I see it becoming stronger and stronger. I see the disparity between the rich and the poor growing more and more extreme. I see the boss class and their hired thugs dictating how, where, and how long working class people will live, and it fills me with rage. But it seems that no matter how I try to get people to recognize the root of the problem -- no matter how persuasive I try to be -- the vast majority of Amerikans will not wake up to reality. Even in the face of massive vote fraud in the most recent election, they continue to believe that they live in a democracy, and that they have a say in how society is run. So then I get cynical and write them off as a bunch of stupid fucking sheep.
Luther Gaylord
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:22:44 (GMT)

Our recent discussion about why people reject socialism was not intended to be a "pissing match" to see who is more radical. But Barbara Ingalls turned to personal insults, writing all sorts of nasty shit about me because she didn't want to respond to the tough question I was pressing her to answer. Why the vast majority of the working class -- even people like Barbara who have battled the bosses on the ground and have seen how capitalism really works -- reject socialism is an important and substantive question. Ever since I read THE RAGGED TROUSERED PHILANTHROPISTS, I've been desperately seeking an explanation for why the people who are most screwed by the system refuse to question or challenge it.
Luther Gaylord
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:22:08 (GMT)

hello, just heard about the death of kirsty maccoll (ive been asleep these past few days), and thought id see if anyone here had cut their wrists yet.
hester
- Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:20:37 (GMT)

Peter Crook, yr review of that Kirwan show was outstanding...it really seemed to catch the feel of the performance and venue. A good piece of rock journalism. Do you do this for a living? Or at least a sideline?
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:20:26 (GMT)

Heres a good review of Kirsty McColl (not an obit, but sort of an appreciation of the artist and person) from an Irish rock music site (I think):***** http://www.muse.ie/archive/audiosync/colm15.html
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:18:22 (GMT)

Jon, Kirsty's death got a full page in the Daily Record (the Mirror's sister paper up here) so she wasn't totally abandonded by the tabloids.
Jennifer <j_mcghee@yahoo.com>
Greenock, Scotland - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:09:56 (GMT)

Pete, don't apologise. I think it's a shame that Kirsty's death didn't make the front page of all the papers, I've only seen mention in the Grauniad and the Independant, not a front pager in the tabloids, but then she was never a tabloid type person. I'm still gutted by yesterdays news, and I can't believe it that only 2 people had even heard of here, from the folks I usually chat with. I've raised a glass or 2 for her tonight, and I reckon we all should.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 00:06:26 (GMT)

Wow...Billy Bragg is old! (older than me, that is)....Happy Birthday.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 23:41:11 (GMT)

Pete, Don't apologise, I (and many others) share your sentiments. When you see British music in the state it is today and we lose two true originals, it hurts. The records are their lasting legacy. "What a waste" you might say.
Scott Mac
Weymouth, England - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 23:40:49 (GMT)

Youāll have to excuse me for continuing to bang on about Kirsty, but losing her AND Ian Dury in the same year is just too fuckinā much.
Pete
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 22:34:39 (GMT)

ta da!
keri
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 21:54:12 (GMT)

by the way, derik, right on with your questions re capitalism. productive. engaging. thought-provoking. that's precisely the way i would like things to be here. calm, collected, thought-provoking. then again, i maybe ought to just keep my mouth shut since i haven't invested the time here that some of you other guys have.
erin
portland, - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 21:48:52 (GMT)

michael, it just seems to me that the last few days have been a huge pissing match over whose personal politics are more justified and who's proved himself more in the realm of activism. boring. 1.how can anyone set a proper example by being belligerent? 2.if i've actually talked a friend into looking at a forum page like this one and he comes up with something to comment on, then i feel like i've contributed to socialist dialogue. 3.i thought the whole idea was to show to others through your own lifestyle what you think is the best way to evangelize. 4.change (into socialism, into capitalism, into fascism) should come to be because it is the choice of the people, whatever that choice may be. no point in trying to convince people that your way is better by beating them up. if anything that's going to antagonize people..witness barbara saying that if being a socialist is being like luther, then she doesn't want to be one. i'm not trying to sound like some dazed hippy or anything, but what is the profit from being more involved in your politics than someone else? who cares? you guys sometimes start to sound like a family that's been locked in a room with each other for two years. you're getting sick of each other and you're bickering without any positive result. i don't really know who this is addressed to...and sorry to ramble about it so much.
erin <miss_agent@yahoo.com>
portland, rainy and cold but home - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 21:46:56 (GMT)

feel better carol.
keri
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:50:28 (GMT)

Bob: Capitalism will destroy itself. Too many contradictions.
Carol <imhomesick@ifeellousy.puke>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:36:02 (GMT)

There is no way to destroy capitalism. Keep trying, though. It's amusing to watch.
Bob <yourkarmar@noutofgasmaandmydogmaispissingonitstiresma>
USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:26:43 (GMT)

Michael: You would perhaps first want to decide exactly what capitalism is (set some boundaries). Is capitalism people? (ie the bosses, the millionaires, the politicians, the police) Is capitalism an intangible system? If so how does one destroy that which does not really physically exist? Is capitalism a state of mind? (ie consumerism, oneupmanship, competition) Then one would have to change the minds of millions of people who have lived their whole lives in that state. Is capitalism the strawman for all the evils of the world? Then, well... who knows.
derik
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:12:51 (GMT)

Erin - Who, specifically, is judging whom? Who is "wrapped up in judging the ideologies of other posters?" Lastly, what do you think is an effective means of destroying capitalism? It's a question I can't seem to get an answer to.
Michael <karmar@noverdogma>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:09:01 (GMT)

very funny derik.
keri
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:08:34 (GMT)

My monarchism is bigger than your theocracism.
derik <neologism? perhaps.>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 20:04:52 (GMT)

you know what? i'm not joining any society unless i can meet my co-conspirators in person. after reading the juvenile pedantic squabbles going back and forth here for the past few days i've convinced myself that you all must be kidding and just giggling to yourselves...you can't seriously be so wrapped up in judging the ideologies of other posters. come on. take your thumbs out of your mouths and go get a few pints, kids. relax. attacking like that really gets you nowhere. so...we can sign up in saskatoon when we get there. after we make sure they're 'mild of manner'. (frightened shiver.)
erin
portland, home at last - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 19:41:10 (GMT)

Pete, sounds like a cracking night, your review does it justice.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 19:32:08 (GMT)

well, well, erin... i'll move to saskatoon on one condition, that we join the saskatoon solidarity committee. "the committee defines [their] objective as the achievement of liberation through the defeat of imperialism." gee, never know what one can find in this mess...
keri
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 19:27:48 (GMT)

Dear "Glad": Nice to see that Berkeley education is being put to good use. Preach on, Brother! See you in Econ 101.
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 19:21:56 (GMT)

Oh my, what a list of such noble work. You know, all this stuff you claim to do is pretty vague and indirect, involving not much more than sitting on YOUR FAT WHITEBOY ASS in front of your computer. What effect do you think you really have writing and talking? If you do it in the manner you do on any of the lists you're on no one is listening and you're a joke, instead alienating people. To think that you actually work with people, physically and socially, when you are one of the rudest, most condescending, asocial, insensitive assholes around, is just unbelievable. How many Doobie Bother/Celine Dion/Snoop Doggy Dogg-listening converts will you win with "radical music" (and what a lamely pathetic label that is). This is an amazing ignorantly condescending list: "talking to", "educating", "spreading the word". Ooh, you're so radical, and you know so much better than the unwashed masses! Your organization needs a fourth goal: implementation. None of what you're doing is really that effective. Maybe you think you're so radical because you live in the middle of fucking nowhere. --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- SO ANSWER AGAIN. THE ONE BELOW ISN'T GOOD ENOUGH. AND THIS TIME ANSWER MORE CONCRETELY. YOU HAVE NO REASON TO BE SO RUDE TO MICHAEL, WHICH WOULD INDICATE INSTEAD THAT YOU DON'T REALLY HAVE A GOOD ANSWER. --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- Bogues: The three goals of my union are education, organization, and emancipation. Since I became convinced of the need to destroy capitalism, I've been working with others on the first two of those missions. Some of the things I do include (1) writing about and talking to people about anarcho-syndicalism, (2) supporting local strikes by walking picket lines with workers, (3) attempting to unionize my own workplaces (4) travelling to nearby Indian reservations and engaging in direct action to support Native American struggles, (5) educating people about how the state targets and imprisons radicals like Leonard Peltier and Mumia Abu-Jamal, (6) spreading the word about boycotts of companies which are guilty of unfair labor practices, (7) building and maintaining internet servers to share radical texts, images, and music with people all over the world, (8) making and giving away tapes and CDs of radical musicans, (9) speaking on and sometimes hosting radio shows to spread the word about alternatives to capitalism. All of that is separate and apart from my reformist work within the legal system (for which I am compensated). I am not yet convinced that a stateless, classless society in which people work together in mutual aid for the common good is unattainable -- that's why I continue to engage in the activities described above. Luther Gaylord - Monday, November 20, 2000 at 22:00:51 (GMT)
Glad not to be Luther <because_he's_a_fake@LOL.org>
Mailbomb City, The Land of 1,000 Email Account Impersonations - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 18:33:46 (GMT)

ERIN!!!!!!!!!
keri
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 18:30:25 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Bill, though, like most others here I'm sure your thoughts are with Kirsty's family. Peace.
Rob Lang
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 17:34:20 (GMT)

Happy 43rd Birthday, Billy
Brian
London, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 17:32:41 (GMT)

You must be out canvessing or something then. Nevermind.
Marc
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:34:05 (GMT)

Pete C: Great review! I wish I could have been there.
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:32:47 (GMT)

Apology warmly accepted, Michael. Now you, Luther.
Marc
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:19:28 (GMT)

Sorry Marc.
Michael
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:16:45 (GMT)

Happy Birthday, Uncle Bill...
Rob B <bbgb@rbrwr.globalnet.co.uk>
Bristol, England - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:08:55 (GMT)

Look! You've all made me so upset that my grammar has become affected. Apologise now.
Marc
Liverpool, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:07:14 (GMT)

I read your direct answer and for the second time you have avoided my question. By what means should the working class destroy capitalism?
Michael
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:06:54 (GMT)

It's is a bit pathetic all this 'I'm more of a Socialist than you'shite. Fight the real enemy.
Marc <marc.grant-jones@heraeus.com>
Liverpool, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 16:04:29 (GMT)

Michael: You asked me a question, I provided a direct answer, but now you refuse to read it? That's pretty fucking pathetic. I will ignore all further questions from you.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 15:18:09 (GMT)

Itās a bit too long to post here, but if anyone is interested in reading my review of Larry Kirwanās (of Black 47) superb solo gig in Wexford, Ireland, last Saturday, I posted it on the Black 47 guestbook: http://www.irishvisions.com/blk47talk/sub01.html Also Iāll happily forward it on to anyone whoād like to read it. Coming soon: the photos, including one of two guys with red hair and glasses, which Iām VERY proud of.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 14:56:42 (GMT)

No.
Michael
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 14:51:05 (GMT)

Michael: For an answer to your question, go to http://www.billybragg.co.uk/guestNov00.html and search for my post on November 20, 2000 at 22:00:51.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 14:47:25 (GMT)

Happy Birthday to Mr. Bragg. Many more returns.
derik
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 14:44:04 (GMT)

Happy birthday Bill! Luther - Please explain the way in which you have worked to "destroy capitalism." I can certainly provide several examples of how I have "nibbled around the edges, fighting the bosses," campaigning for publicly funded elections, lobbying elected officials, writing countless letters to editors, talking to hundred of people on the street, for starters. Other than simply telling Barbara that she's part of the problem, how, specifically have you fought your cause?
Michael
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 14:02:30 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Mr. Bragg! I hope that you and your family have a wondeful holiday season and a happy new year. Looking forward to seeing you in 2001!
Tom Brophy <tbrophy@sitetrends.com>
New Haven, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 13:56:57 (GMT)

Happy Birthday, Bill! It was good to meet you in Belfast. And if we'll never agree on things like the bombing of Yugoslavia perhaps it's just because you're already pushing 50... ;) - Have a good one, mate.
Carsten
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 13:39:43 (GMT)

you can leave messages for Kirsty's family at - http://www.freeworld.demon.co.uk/guests/index.htm - the actual guestbook is down for maintance - but the people at the web-site have made provisions with an alternative e-mail address
Brian
London, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 12:12:33 (GMT)

I have a tape in my car player of Kirsty on Bills radio show talking and playing her Cuban stuff from earlier this year...I will leave it in the player for a few more days..so sad
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 12:06:18 (GMT)

I had my Christmas do last night. I was having a-bit-of-a-boogie (yes, obviously under the influence..), when one of my mates was less than complimentary about my dancing. I blamed the poor music and said, with tongue firmly in cheek, that only Billy Bragg's tunes were possible to dance to. He then told me about Kirsty. I have never sobered up as quickly in my life. I've seen her perform live many times, the last being the Robert Hamill benefit. She had a lovely voice, an excellent catalogue of records and a very warm stage presence. Whenever I've thought of Kirsty, I've always remembered her standing on stage behind Billy at the Hackney Empire. Billy was in the middle of a very long (even for him) political rant/speech, Kirsty, whilst laughing and yawning, was miming the cranking up of a car, hoping to speed him along. There was never any question though, that she shared his views on social justice. Thank you for The Days ! Love,
Theo
London, - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 11:44:25 (GMT)

SAVE VAUXHALL JOBS ! http://www.savevauxhalljobs.org.uk/
Pete
London, England - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 11:19:28 (GMT)

Poor Kirsty made the front page of todayās Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,3604,413771,00.html. Also her obituary is at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/obituaries/story/0,3604,413679,00.html.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 10:46:37 (GMT)

I bought my first Kirsty MacColl record in 1979 a long, long time before I knew of Billy Bragg. This morning I read the news about her on the internet and have been trying to assimilate it all day. Very few people in Australia have ever heard of her and her last album "Tropical Brainstorm" wasn't even released here. Maybe now some people will start to realise what a great talent she had. I was lucky enough to be sent a tape of her appearance on Bill's "Saturday Music Show" on BBC Radio 2 last year. Her last song on that session was "A New England" which I've now uploaded to Braggtopia! as I'm sure there's a lot of people who would like to hear it. Just go to : - http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg - and click on the tab for MP3 downloads. - Braggtopia! The Ultimate Billy Bragg Website http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 10:44:25 (GMT)

Don't Come the Cowboy With Me Sonny Jim played a large part in my courtship. It is terribly sad that Kirsty's gone. My thoughts are with her sons and other family and friends. On a brighter note well done Pete w. I bet the various admissions tutors were fighting over you.
siobhan
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 09:31:51 (GMT)

Devastating news about Kirsty MacColl. I woke up to it in a mail from Sonja. We've lost a truly great talent. Deepest sympathies to her friends and family. Particularly Steve Lillywhite and the kids. From me and Sonja P. :(
Tettland
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 08:27:28 (GMT)

Kim, Cait O'Riordan & Sinead O Conner both sang with The Pogues on both versions of Haunted. Kirsty sang backup on a few other Pogues tunes, and not forgetting Greetings to the new brunette.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 08:03:37 (GMT)

Or maybe Luther I see the far left as damaging itself repeatedly and want no part of a "socialism" that bitches about the buracracy and the bosses and then dictates how workers should think. Exactly like the bosses do. Just like you do. Quit answering for me Luther. Wrong again.
Barbara <dontyouevergettiredofbeingwrong?>
trylisteningnotlecturing, - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 07:11:55 (GMT)

I just went out to buy my lunch and met some bloke in the street wearing a Billy Bragg t-shirt. He was most surprised when I told him he had chosen Bill's birthday to wear his t-shirt. Aren't coincidences amazing!
geoff
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 04:38:32 (GMT)

It's been a while since I've popped in here, but I immediately thought of Billy and everyone here when I heard the news about K.M. today. My heart especially goes out to those of you who actually knew her. (Can someone answer this: In addition to "Fairytale in New York," didn't she also sing on the Pogues' "Haunted" on the 'Sid and Nancy' soundtrack?) I hope you had a decent birthday despite the bad news, Billy.
Kim <grrrlkim@community.hipmama.com>
Indiana, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 03:24:43 (GMT)

Thank you Luther for that well reasoned and informative post. It was much more persuasive than some of your previous efforts, which I do appreciate. I wouldn't have used 'aimlessly' at the end but that's just me. I would like to ask you to clarify one point. If the classic socialist tenet of "to each according to their needs from each according to their ability" is to be adhered to, then shouldn't one come to a point of realising that some have the ability to react to capitalism in different ways, and the left must accept different people's different responses? If someone makes a different contribution to you, but in their own way, within their own capacity, shouldn't that effort be encouraged (as being in some way contributory) rather than criticised as being not enough?
geoff
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 02:20:31 (GMT)

"I first heard his music through her version of 'New England' back at the end of 1984." You know, I have never heard this version. And I understand this was the song or version that really put Billy "on the map" as it was her veriosn that was the big hit in England.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton,OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 02:13:17 (GMT)

I'm away on a skiing trip with my wife, kids and other relatives, all totally or mainly American, so no-one else here gave a shit when I logged on a couple of hours ago and saw the news about Kirsty MacColl. But I am so desolate. Like many other fans of BB, I first heard his music through her version of 'New England' back at the end of 1984. And there were so many great eclectic tunes she produced. Having had a close enough call in my time to have a funeral plan on file, Kirstie singing "Thank You For The Days" is the main song for the whole (non-religious) service. It was only a couple of months ago that I got her 'Best Of' album sent across the Atlantic because it isn't held by Amazon in the USA. Been in my car since. Fate is so unkind in those it takes away from us. We shall all miss her, and I'm sure Bill will more than any of us. See here off in style, Bill....
Boguespierre
Vermont, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:52:43 (GMT)

pete w sez: "some completely fuckwitted admissions tutor just decided to let me read anglish at oxford uni."****goddamn, pete..thats great! so your going to Oxford...congratulations!
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:46:12 (GMT)

Carol of The City...heres a book just for you*****http://www.versobooks.com/books/nopqrs/solnit_hollow_city.shtml
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:37:29 (GMT)

I think Im going to break out that Electric Landlady CD and listen to it at work tomorrow. You know, Kirsty had an interesting and uique vocal style. I guess she mustve been pretty big in England.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:34:35 (GMT)

Pam, yeah, I forgot you could fly..I always think in terms of driving time. I just thought it unusual that you two actually know each other face to face even tho y'all live so far apart. The left must be alot more close knit than I thought.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:31:15 (GMT)

Luther ö By what means should the working class destroy capitalism?
Michael
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:16:30 (GMT)

Yes, Geoff, both Barbara and I do what we can. But I think there's more to it than that. I recognize the root of the problem (capitalism) and I advocate that the root be destroyed. I can't destroy it alone, however -- it must be the mass action of the working class. So I try to persuade others to my point of view in the hope that one day we can collectively destroy capitalism. Barbara, on the other hand, while doing good work to fight the bosses on the ground, fails to recognize the root of the problem. Either that or she consciously rejects the idea that capitalism is to blame for poverty, misery, and exploitation. I think that's a very important difference, because it dictates how we will combat the employing class. Do we nibble around the edges, fighting the bosses in isolated strikes, or do we unite as a class to crush them and take back the wealth that we've created? That's why ideology is important -- it provides vision and direction to the movement. Remove ideology from the equation and you're just lashing out aimlessly.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 01:01:04 (GMT)

um, that sould read "english" - proof, i think, that oxford is not aware of the levels of idiocy it is dealing with :) And I'm listening to The Fairytale of New York right now..... *sigh*
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:24:40 (GMT)

Really, really, terrible news about Kirsty McColl. I don't think she received her fare share of appreciation during her lifetime, and she will be missed. Yes, life is bastard....but sometimes it's fairly amusing.....some completely fuckwitted admissions tutor just decided to let me read anglish at oxford uni. Well, that's it; for the next few days, in celebration of Kirsty McColl's greatness, and of oxford academics failing to recognise that I'm a complete idiot, I think I'll be constantly out on the piss..... :) :(
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:22:12 (GMT)

I can't believe that Kirsty MacColl has gone. Just a couple of quick personal references: Kirsty with Bill at the Cuba Solidarity concert in London last year, and then the Robert Hamill benefit gig. I am fuckin' gutted.
Pete Crook
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:20:28 (GMT)

since when did "socialism" become a contest? Luther does what he can, and Barbara does what she can. Isn't that the idea? Not to try and measure which one is 'better' - which seems to me to go against the principle.
geoff <geoffwilson@uq.net.au>
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:17:31 (GMT)

OH GOD Tragedy about Kirsty... I feel as if I've lost a sister and friend... her songs were the backdrop to all my adventures.. I never went anywhere (nor ever will) without a bunch of Kirsty tapes in the car... "won't see another one". All the best to her family & loved ones.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
bogsville, Ireland - Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:07:52 (GMT)

and add my thoughts to the long list of Kirsty condolences. Tragic.
geoff
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:05:56 (GMT)

Birthday Greetings Uncle Bill.
geoff
- Wednesday, December 20, 2000 at 00:05:07 (GMT)

Yes, Jeff. You have the logistics right. But what are you saying? That I couldn't possibly have such first hand knowledge given the distances? If I left Columbus right now, I could be at Luther's home by half past midnight EST (roughly 6 hours including changing flights), flying through Cincinnati. It's a bit longer if I have to go through Minneapolis because the connections are not as good. And don't forget, I have long breaks through the year during which I can travel and spend time with old friends. So I find nothing odd about my statement. BTW, I could be at Wright-Patt in Dayton in about 90 minutes if I drove. NYC is about 12 hours. San Francisco would take 3-4 days. Detroit is about 4, maybe 5, hours. I can't drive to London, though...except London, Ontario. I don't know how long that would take--maybe 7 hours?
Pam
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 23:53:41 (GMT)

On a lighter note, Sunderland went out of the cup tonight. What a cracking result
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 23:37:53 (GMT)

RIP Kirsty
Scott Mac
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 23:23:22 (GMT)

Odd but true.
Luther Gaylord
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 22:53:01 (GMT)

been reading some of the backposts and noticed something odd. Pam Raver says she is personally familiar with the good works Luther has done, yet if I recall right Pam is a schoolteacher in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio, while Luther lives in Salt Lake or Ogden...over a thousand miles and a two or three days drive apart. Odd.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 22:34:07 (GMT)

Its' too bad about Kirsty Mc. I know her work through that Electric Landlady album: a song from it, Walking Down Madison, got a lot of airplay on alternative radio here.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 21:55:16 (GMT)

where can i see the "sulacious" email from recent days?
k <k73@aol.com>
chicago, usa - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 21:31:28 (GMT)

Happy Birthday to Billy. A somewhat greeting tinged with the sadness of Kirsty death.
Craig
Hull, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 21:28:50 (GMT)

Happy b-day Billy. I was shocked to hear about Kristy. It was through you that I got into her music. The world has lost a beautiful voice and talent.
Paul Bisson <pbisson@magma.ca>
Ottawa, Canada - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 20:03:58 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Mr Bragg from us both. So sad to hear the news about Kirsty. A unique talent that will be sorely missed. God bless.
Simon & Dawn <scrosby44@yahoo.com>
Monkseaton, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 19:48:18 (GMT)

Kirsty MacColl RIP. You will be missed dearly..... Does anyone know when Billy is having that radio interview?
Sgt Gizmo <generetic@aol.com>
Wirral, U.K - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 19:45:30 (GMT)

Kirsty MacColl is dead. Shit! - Her series on Cuban music was due to start tomorrow 22:00 h on BBC Radio 2.
Carsten
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 18:45:03 (GMT)

BBC Choice's Liquid News will be showing a special tribute to Kirsty MacColl at 2030 GMT today. To view it go here. http://www.bbc.co.uk/choice/liquidnews/
Jon
Bristol, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 18:02:55 (GMT)

Happy Birthday, Mr. Bragg! It is really a shame about Kirsty, who I believe was truly gifted and whose works, for me and others, will live on, providing a fitting memory for a beautiful, talented lady.
john <john@mooseworld.com>
athens, ga., u.s.a. - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:56:48 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Bill, sorry it's not going to be happier. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_1078000/1078192.stm#form to send messages of condolence.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:56:43 (GMT)

Kirsty will be greatly missed. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_1078000/1078192.stm
Jon
Bristol, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:54:47 (GMT)

Dreadful news about Kirsty. We have lost one of Britains finest female pop stars. Rest In Peace. Somewhat muted birthday whishes to Billy. Lots of love Andy.
Andy Tyrrell <andybragg237@yahoo.co.uk>
Grimsby, England - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:51:02 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Bill. Sorry this birthday will be remembered with sorrow. My condolences to Kirsty McColl's family.
Barbara
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:41:42 (GMT)

Can't believe Kirsty's dead at such a young age. Tragic!
Dyl
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:29:58 (GMT)

hairdresser on fire... good one.
keri
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:28:59 (GMT)

So sad about Kristy. We have all lost a great one.
Carol
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:27:03 (GMT)

Sympathy to all the family of friends of Kirsty McColl. Absolutely tragic. Life's a b@stard
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 17:12:13 (GMT)

I wholeheartedly agree with Pam. Giving people computers and helping them obtain clean apartments is indeed good and kind. However, it is also kind of liberal. Being involved in a 5 year strike challenges the relationship between worker and private property. The Detroit newspaper strike was significant. There were pitched battles on the streets between strikers and cops and hired thugs. The first time I met Barbara was when she was on the west coast orgnaizing support for the strike. This was about four years ago. She worked hard helping too produce an alternative paper, traveling the country, walking the picket line, organizing many aspects of that strike. I am proud to say that I have met her and that she is in my life--I don't care if she is a socilaist or a liberal or whatever. At least she got out and literally battled those in power.
Carol
San Francisco, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:52:56 (GMT)

"You're either a: socialist b: capatilist. The world doesn't work that way and politics certainly doesn't work that way." Thank you, scooter. I was going to say that same thing.
derik
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:41:42 (GMT)

what's the morrissey song of today? email me...
keri <keri1776@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:40:23 (GMT)

Fairytale of New York will now sound even sadder to me.
scooter
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:40:02 (GMT)

Keri??? :)
Brian
London, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:37:03 (GMT)

People seem to be confusing socialism and communism. Terms "Socialist Utopia" get bandied about as if those people believe it is an idealistic, unattainable nirvana. Socialism isn't like that, but it can be the solution to helping people of ALL incomes live a little more comfortable. As Steve and I discussed at one point It can be as simple as believing that more services remain government owned and running at lower profits, if any, so that the public have a system in place that is affordable. Or that an education system be free to the student or healthcare be free to the patient. Some of the arguments I've seen come from people who believe these beliefs are black and white. "Billy is not a socialist" "Politics is shit" "I don't want to be a socialist, now Go talk change" You're either a: socialist b: capatilist. The world doesn't work that way and politics certainly doesn't work that way.
scooter <sadlingt@lww.com>
Baltimore Now, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:36:46 (GMT)

brian?
keri
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:35:13 (GMT)

http://www.freeworld.demon.co.uk/images/pic/sex1.jpg
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:33:17 (GMT)

Kirsty you will be sadly missed. Deepest sympathy to Steve and family. peace & love xx
Limerick Rake
Hull, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 16:01:24 (GMT)

I just wanted to echo what everyoneelse had said about the sad news, my thoughts are with Kirsty's friends and family
Jennifer <j_mcghee@yahoo.com>
Greenock, scotland - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:50:42 (GMT)

My deepest sympathies go to Kirsty's family, particularly Steve (Lillywhite) and their two children. Kirsty, you will be sorely missed, a great entertainer and a wonderfully warm and kind person.
Richard <rich@benandgrover.com>
Birmingham, United Kingdom - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:33:06 (GMT)

Just to say how sad it is to hear of Kirsty McColl's death. Sympathy to all.
Craig
Hull, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:32:12 (GMT)

This is on the bbc website; Singer Kirsty MacColl has died aged 41, her record company V2 has said. She is believed to have been killed in an accident on a diving holiday in Mexico. Unconfirmed reports say she was hit by a speedboat while swimming. A spokesman for V2 said a statement would be issued later on Tuesday afternoon. The daughter of folk singer Ewan MacColl, she is best known for her 1987 Christmas hit with The Pogues, Fairytale of New York, and the hit single There's a Guy Works Down the Chip Shop Swears He's Elvis. Her other hits include a cover of Billy Bragg's song A New England, and a version of The Kinks' track Days. Her last album, Tropical Brainstorm, was a tribute to Cuban music, which had influenced her throughout the 1990s. On Wednesday, BBC Radio 2 was due to begin broadcasting a documentary series she had made about Cuban music. A spokeswoman for the station said no decision had been made about whether the series should still go out as planned.
Steve
London, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:27:53 (GMT)

Kirsty you will be missed. Love you always. Peace. Tears.
Stephen <stephen.walker@ncounty.net>
Boston, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:25:20 (GMT)

What can you say?....it's a cliche but it dont make it any less true that she will be missed.
Stewart
Belfast, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 15:17:44 (GMT)

Terribly, terribly sad.
Rob Lang
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 14:44:27 (GMT)

someone has just phoned me with the awful news :(
Brian
London, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 14:39:11 (GMT)

Sorry - I should've written something to warn you. Didn't mean to be insensitive - it is awful.
chris <duckyfuzz>
london, england - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 14:18:46 (GMT)

Oh my! That is horrible on many levels. Speedboat? yikes.
derik
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 14:17:38 (GMT)

Before you click on Chris' NME link, be prepared for extremely sad news.
Bob <notjoking@stunned.com>
USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 14:03:00 (GMT)

http://www.nme.com/NME/External/News/News_Story/0,1004,11543,00.html
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 13:43:57 (GMT)

I try, Pete... So if today is Bragg's birthday, wasn't yesterday Ochs?
derik
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 13:27:18 (GMT)

Steve - Thanks for the clarification.
Michael <closer to the spine>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 12:39:23 (GMT)

belated review of the Barbican gig on music365: http://www.music365.co.uk/autocontent/live_53686.htm
Mick St John
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 12:26:05 (GMT)

derik, that is quite simply one of the most ingenious and socially necessary ideas I've ever heard :)
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:57:34 (GMT)

It's nearly midnight here so it's almost time to say "Happy Birthday Billy Bragg - 43 today (today being 20th December after midnight in this part of the world....if you see what I mean).
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:55:34 (GMT)

dont you start Tett...(:)
steve <2112>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:50:33 (GMT)

Dear Mickey, what an assumptious ex-student you are, try sucking your head from your arse and your degree with it and try using simple clear words. .....1) Luther and I are on different sides of the fence....2) I couldnt give a wank if you go in McDonalds or not and certainly wouldnt wish for windows to be smashed...3) Luther certainly deserves to pursue answers to questions especially on this guestbook where people usually claim to be socialists, nothing wrong with a little clarification on ideologies??... now run along and buy some sweeties.
steve <closer to the heart>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:49:37 (GMT)

Spelling police: i before e except after c! (receiving)
Tettland
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:42:22 (GMT)

SONJA: have you been recieving my mails? Hope you tell the company what you think of them at the xmas dinner :)...
Tettland
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 11:41:20 (GMT)

Luther, I know I said I wouldn't do this again, but sometimes I get pushed too far and can't stop. Barbara, you have no idea how wrong and how offensive you are. I've known Luther personally a number of years and he is one of the hardest workers for those who have been denied a voice that I know. And it isn't just talk as you proclaim as if you knew something. I've seen him literally get out clean and repair uninhabitable residences so someone who can't afford to go elsewhere can legally live there. I've seen him GIVE away computers that he had picked up inexpensively and repaired so that others who couldn't afford them could use them. I've seen him save numerous people from being thrown out of their homes or from losing their disability benefits. Luther is not just a man who talks socialism, Barbara. He lives it...which is more than I can say about you, who milks every ounce sympathy you can from having been in a newspaper strike. Then you have the audacity to call him a psychopath? He's as much a psychopath as Billy is. Keep pushing my buttons, Barbara. So you aren't a socialist because Luther is one? No, you're not a socialist because you're just a snivelling, whining liberal who talks the talk but does little to bring into reality those things you talk about supporting. Give me a fucking break.
Pam <raverp@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 10:39:27 (GMT)

btw, i gave up smoking by drinking whiskey or eating chocolate instead of lighting up. My liver is probably f*84'# but my lungs are ok now. The extra 3 stone is a bit of a strain on the heart though:(
sonj <just passing through..for now>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 09:38:28 (GMT)

thank you for your kind words tettland. Only a couple more days to go before a long christmas break (possibly very long if alberr is dumped at 60 and i don't get a job) so we should be able to get the kit installed in the bulding site we are currently living in and get back on board. In the meantime it is time to go to work, to get there just in time for christmas lunch!
sonj
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 09:35:41 (GMT)

The morning after the night before·On reflection a draw was a fair result. Although last night fuelled by several pints of Guinness I thought we woz robbed. Pete: Kicking myself for turning down those tickets. Think of me on spud duty when the final whistle blows.
Dickie <anyonegotaspare80millioniwanttobuyafootballclub?>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 08:41:27 (GMT)

Sonja: We miss you, hurry back.
Tettland
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 07:04:48 (GMT)

Well Billy, we get to drink the whiskey.
Barbara
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 04:24:24 (GMT)

The politics of mmm mmm mmm ... feeling good.
Re-flex <bad_hair@eighties.com>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 04:02:16 (GMT)

I'll try this one more time and for the last time Gaylord, because I really don't care what a psychopath like you thinks. I don't think ideology will save us. I don't think that saying I'm a socialist will make a difference. They're just words used to justify what ever you feel like doing at any given moment. Politics is shit. And if you're an example of a socialist, I don't want to be one. I don't want to talk and judge and not act, you know, like you Luther. Or lie like you do. Now, go talk change. Somewhere else I hope.
Barbara
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 03:19:36 (GMT)

What are the politics of dancing?
Reflex
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 01:45:45 (GMT)

What exactly are the politics of personal attack?
Sian
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 01:43:06 (GMT)

We'll all be happy, will we Luther? Have you taken it upon yourself to speak for the sheep? All of us?
geoff <baa_baa@white_sheep.org>
- Tuesday, December 19, 2000 at 01:35:19 (GMT)

Feel free to smoke a joint first if it will help you to think, Barbara.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 23:42:12 (GMT)

You're a liar, Barbara. You have never explained -- at least not to me -- why it is that you constantly complain about capitalism yet reject socialism. So why don't you go ahead and explain that contradiction right now, on the guestbook? Then we'll all be happy and I can stop bugging you about it. Go on, then.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 23:41:05 (GMT)

Come on Boro
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 23:19:01 (GMT)

Neil Sullivan was *brilliant* in goal for Tottenham tonight, and I mean that, lest there should be any ambiguity perceived in my earlier post.
Pete
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 22:55:28 (GMT)

All Neil Sullivans fault again..... I spend all my time defending him when he plays for Scotland as well
Desert Rat Shorty <desert-rat-shorty@ukonline.co.uk>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 22:49:44 (GMT)

...but anyway I'll be there at the Lane with my kids for Terry Venables' homecoming next Saturday.
Pete
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 22:33:13 (GMT)

91st minute, actually. There was only so much Neil Sullivan could do...
Pete
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 22:25:14 (GMT)

Oh Dicky, what a shame, 89th minute was it? But come on, Arsenal were worth a draw at least, although I must admit Spurs played some good football. More importantly though, it means Spurs won't go into Saturday's game fulla confindence, leaving the door open for Boro. Prepare to be beaten Dickie sunshine, El Tel's coming home, as are 3 points...back home to Teesside that is. Spurs 0 Boro 1. Cheersmedears
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 22:10:50 (GMT)

Do you mean I said something interesting?!?! Hmm. That must have been someone impersonating me.
derik <and it was one sentence too.>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 21:32:52 (GMT)

derik, would we be able to order these helmuts from informercials during periods of insonomia? would they cost $19.95 or 4 easy payments of $39.95? i'm interested.
keri
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 21:32:05 (GMT)

Erin, I haven't read the Lexus and the Olive Tree because I've read enough of Friedman to know I disagree with him and don't care for his opinions. I don't have time to read the books by people I *do* agree with!
Barbara <ihaveatleasttenbooksonthepileandthepilekeepsgettingbigger>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 21:31:03 (GMT)

Bob - What you consider "reasonable" I find carcinogenic. As far as the question I asked about fake names, it was meant for Mr. Stossel, so butt out (get it?). Lastly, assuming you support my right to free speech, I think you know the answer to your final non-question.
Michael
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 21:30:59 (GMT)

I think we should combine bike helmets and smoking laws to create self contained smoking helmets, wherein one would wear on one's head a helmet that would burn your cigarette and contain the smoke within it: a.) allowing the smoker to get maximum efficiency in both inhaling the smoke and not wasting precious (ie expensive) cigarettes and b.) keep the smoke away from other's by way of a filtering system built in to the helmet with modern micro-technology, thereby solving all the worlds problems in one fell swoop (you would see many more people smoking and riding their scooter at the same time (hell, children's smoking habits may go up, cause it will make those geeky bike helmets cool by combining them with a more sexually attractive item such as smoking), and thus, causing all the world to fall into extended bliss that would, no doubt, bring about pure (PURE) socialistic revolution to the world and implement the famous "to each according to his needs from each according to his ability" (yes I am quoting fallaciously) and causing Marx (and perhaps even Trotsky, Lenin, and Bakunin) to roll over in their graves and cry out that they never thought of such genius ideas.
derik
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 21:24:55 (GMT)

Brian--I am sorry. I didn't think I was making a comment on your personality. I just thought you were sensitive about smoking Bob, you are nuts. (I am making a pesonal comment on Bob's persoanlity. A law was passed by legislators elected by the people of California. If the people want to amend the law, they will lobby their representative to do that. Why ban a law that allows me to go to bars? I think your type of libertarian thinking is very fallacious. Obviously, we have laws that protect public health. That's why I mentioned defecating in public. It would be unhealthy for the public at large to have everyone taking dumps in the streets. Everyone I know likes the ban on smoking in restaurants and bars, but if enough people objected it would either be overturned or amended. I would prefer an amendment, because then Susan and I could go to bars and drink and dance. I am willing to compromise. You are not. Explain!!! (or I won't buy you a drink at Specs.)
Carol
San Francisco, where most of the smoking takes place on the sidewalk under my bedroom window, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:56:06 (GMT)

Michael, good questions. I would add to that: Why are people innocent until proven guilty? Why do people who voluntarily go into a privately owned business expect to be protected from something they can reasonably expect to be taking place inside? And to answer your last question, because I feel like it and I can and anyone who cares either already knows it's me or can find out easily enough. And one more thing, does that last question finally qualify as guestbook "policing"?
"Bob"
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:42:23 (GMT)

Why are toxic substances, like people, innocent until proven guilty? Why do people have to die before restrictions are put into place? What makes second hand smoke and methyl ethel keytone necessary members of a free society? And why is "Bob" posting under so many aliases?
Michael
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:33:07 (GMT)

susan, have any creative ways to kick the nasty habit? brian, doesn't the price of a pack over there cause heart problems as well? how much does a pack of 20 camel lights cost these days?
keri <keri1776@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:09:07 (GMT)

Susan: I have no desire to "smoke my little lungs black" - although I am a light smoker (a pack of twenty ultra-lows will last me between a week and a fortnight - although if I get totally rat-arsed (rarely) that figure can go up) I would never encourage others to take up smoking. I agree with the ban on advertising, was the only smoker to support a no-smoking ban in our office, and certainly think that legislation could be brought in where pubs will have a smoking ban at the bar/counter, suitable air-conditioning and no-smoking areas, and if a bar/pub wants to implement a total no-smoking policy, good luck to them - but what I had (maybe erronously) assumed was that California had a total blanket ban on smoking in public, including bars where the patrons and staff were ok with people smoking - which was why I was asking about it to acquire more info - why any of this warranted a comment about my personality from Carol, god alone knows -maybe she could explain
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:05:35 (GMT)

Can any one help me? I bought the tour t-shirt at Nottingham lastnight. Is the 'back' print with the dates on supposed to be off centre? Can any one clarify please, maybe the Bragg Office. Thanks. Cracking night by the way!
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:04:15 (GMT)

ban the bloody smokers, just don't ban my bloody wordz. now playing: 'this mess we're in'- pjh.
jackson whole <bern-pimlico@costello-tokyo>
walden3, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:03:10 (GMT)

No comment! http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/wcvb/20001218/lo/272625_1.html
John Stossel
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:00:27 (GMT)

No comment! http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/wcvb/20001218/lo/272625_1.html
John Stossel
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 20:00:27 (GMT)

That last post is from me, addressed to Carol. Sorry.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:47:41 (GMT)

Well, that is my point really. The law *should* be overturned. And then if, as you implied in an earlier post, most bar and restaurant frequenters are non-smokers, someone(s) could make a lot of money catering to them. Oh, wait, we couldn't do that. Markets are evil!
Carol
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:47:03 (GMT)

Bob, I won't enter those establishments. I said that I wouldn't object to smoker's establishments, but I haven't seen bar owners, who are a lobby, by the way, really rally around that idea. They just want to ban the current law, not amend it.
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:38:01 (GMT)

Brian: I decree *today* that life . . .
Morrissey <don'tmisquoteme@itmustbefromhangingaroundwithjournalists.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:30:40 (GMT)

Carol: You are free to *NOT* enter bars or restaurants where smoking is allowed.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:28:13 (GMT)

Keri: I refuse to give you the answer so why don't you go and find out for yourself (doh!) :) but, I decree that life is simply taking and not giving, England is mine and it owes me a living
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:26:31 (GMT)

And Michael: Do I think second hand smoke is dangerous? Indoors: Yes. Outdoors: Not unless it were under some very extreme circumstances, none of which I can think of right now.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:23:50 (GMT)

Bob: the problem is second hand smoke. I don't care if someone wants to kill themselves by smoking three packs a day--but not around me. The fact that people have quit smoking benefits those who don't smoke. And wearing motorcycle and bicycle helmets is important to society as a whole, because brain damaged people need care for the rest of their lives--a good friend's son was in a near fatal motorcycle accident and he wasn't wearing a helmet--he no longer has a functioning brain.
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:20:22 (GMT)

brian... name that tune? erin, you sly kat, you're a capitalist? but you have respectable politics. how's the hunt for the perfect duvet? i'm not feeling too good today. i'm dizzy.
keri <toyko storm warning>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:13:37 (GMT)

thanks Carol and Keri for the smoking sites. I've burned marshmallow peeps before. theyre beautiful. I've got a few people in my life who smoke and I'd like it very much if they quit because I love them and know it can lead to much pain in life and an early and painful death. I'm collecting smoking info AND info on support while quitting. It's such a tenacious habit. It breaks my heart that people get hooked on something that slowly kills them. However, I try not to diss them, just give helpful information and support. If they want their own smokers bar it's cool by me. Actually we have a bar in town that has a "smoking parlor". The bar and smoking area are enclosed and the pool table area is smoke free (supposedly) it's pretty well patronized. I still came home reeking though, so I haven't gone back (also no dancing, but had a very well stocked juke box). It's called the one double-oh-seven club, Carol, in case you want to be sure to avoid it! Brian, I'll take you there when you come visit and you can smoke your little lungs black! (You do smoke, right? What percentage of Londoners smoke? That was difficult for me when I was there, but when I came back I even let someone smoke in my car! Somehow I'd gotten used to it. Didn't have a sense of smell anymore, either.)
Susan
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:13:17 (GMT)

How many deaths do you think we could prevent by legislating that everyone wear a helmet and oxygen mask at all times? Couldn't we eliminate all smoking-related deaths by shooting smokers in the head? That would also make gun-related deaths skyrocket, thus strengthening the anti-gun lobbyists' position. If someone is stupid enough to kill herself by smoking two packs a day, do we really want to encourage her to live longer and possibly cause more harm to others? Is this really a net benefit to society?
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 19:08:00 (GMT)

I don't believe all scientific studies by any means, but this one makes some interesting claims. http://www.ucsf.edu/daybreak/2000/12/14_smoking.htm
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:50:35 (GMT)

ok, keri, i'll find you a copy of the freidman book and send it with the print. you must read it. so must a few other people here...wasn't there an argument a few days ago about why you shouldn't beat a journalist up when you haven't actually read the piece in question? i have heard that when i get about another hundred pages into the lexus and the olive tree there's going to be discussion of the backlash against globalization, but for now i don't think i'm reading the words of a 'parrot' for the party line of capitalism. 1.if you were chosen to be the foreign affairs columnist for the new york times, you would likely have a modicum of intelligence and not merely be some pawn for capitalism; and 2.bearing that in mind, the opportunities presented to you to meet and interview some of the key individuals who shape the global economic and political community would not be something you translate into your own ideology. (sorry that was a bit stilted.) whether or not you agree with free-market capitalism, it's quite fascinating to hear what zedillo had to say the week after the peso fell in 1995. the book and the theory are not just the windy blathering of some old politician; it's a pretty good synthesis of a helluva lot of good stories. can't globalization lead to a sort of socialism? or should i just throw in the towel, stop trying to reconcile, and admit i'm a capitalist?
erin
bellingham, close to blaine - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:39:17 (GMT)

That's Rush *Limbaugh* singing show tunes, of course. The thought of listening to Geddy Lee singing "Oklahoma" is about on par with watching the Blokes. And I'm afraid that Neil Peart's flailing genitalia would just make the whole Rush-in-the-shower deal unwatchable.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:17:04 (GMT)

Michael: I haven't listened to or watched Rush Limbaugh in probably six or seven years. And even then it was only a few times ("I didn't inhale"). As I said to someone in a private e-mail a couple of days ago, although I agree with a lot of his points, I think he is a self-promoting buffoon, much like a right-wing version of Michael Moore. And maybe that's just my anti-fat-guy-who-thinks he's-much-funnier&cleverer-than-he-actually-is mentality. As for Bill, I've avoided him live for about as long because I find his commentary on American politics about as funny and insightful as I find Jay Leno's. And to pay a lot of money to see him and hear 60% great songs and 40% drivel is not my idea of a bargain. So, to answer your question, yes, I do think Bill's political views are much more annoying. And I'd rather watch Rush sing showtunes in the shower than spend any amount of money to see Bill & the Blokes.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:13:25 (GMT)

...and thank you for explaining to me how I feel
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:11:09 (GMT)

please except my apologies for asking for clarification on a term you used that had confused me
Brian <neversupportedpeterboroughinmylife>
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:09:33 (GMT)

yes, brian, smokers are posh, so any establishment that allows them to light up would be exclusive (exclude me in reality). I have a slight chest cold and cough, and being around second hand smoke would cause a coughing fit--this has happened before. But really, Brian, I don't care if you smoke--and as I said, if a law was passed that allowed for smoking bars, I wouldn't object. You are very sensitive about your habits.
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 18:02:06 (GMT)

Keri:) you scared the sh*t out of me then - I half read your posting and just thought you had gone mad and was sending me some strange "warning" message :))
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:52:48 (GMT)

http://www.learnlink.emory.edu/peep/smoking.html
keri <good old emory university>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:51:07 (GMT)

Bob - Do you really think that Billy Bragg is more annoying politically than Limbaugh? Or do you want to take that back too? Not policing, just asking. What was I "policing" before? Final quetion: Do you think secondhand smoke is harmful?
Michael
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:50:30 (GMT)

Michael, here is the bbgb short log http://www.billybragg.co.uk/guestlog.html this tells you who posts. Due to a high incidence of impersonations, the Bragg office gave us this address.
Barbara
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:47:40 (GMT)

"...exclusively a smoking bar" ???
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:46:27 (GMT)

brian... how about this one....? the sanest days are mad why don't you find out for yourself then you'll see the price very closely some men here they have a special interest in your career they wanna help you to grow and then syphon all your dough why don't you find out for yourself then you'll see the glass hidden in the grass you'll never believe me, so why don't you find out for yourself sick down to my heart that's just the way it goes some men here they know the full extent of your distress they kneel and pray and they say: "long may it last" why don't you find out for yourself then you'll see the glass hidden in the grass bad scenes come and go for which you must allow sick down to my heart that's just the way it goes don't rake up my mistakes I know exactly what they are and... what do YOU do? well... you just SIT THERE I've been stabbed in the back so many many times I don't have any skin but that's just the way it goes
keri
new york, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:44:46 (GMT)

In a stunning development this morning, God invoked the "one nation, under God" clause of the Pledge of Allegiance to overrule last night's Supreme Court decision that handed the White House to George Bush. "I'm not sure where the Supreme Court gets off," God said this morning on a rare Today Show appearance, "but I'm sure as hell not going to lie back and let Bush get away with this bullshit." "I've watched analysts argue for weeks now that the exact vote count in Florida 'will never be known.' Well, I'm God and I DO know exactly who voted for whom. Let's cut to the chase: Gore won Florida by exactly 20,219 votes." Shocking political analysts and pundits, God's unexpected verdict overrules the official Electoral College tally and awards Florida to Al Gore, giving him a 289-246 victory. The Bush campaign is analyzing God's Word for possible grounds for appeal. "God's ruling is a classic over-reach," argued Bush campaign strategist Jim Baker. "Clearly, a divine intervention in a U.S. Presidential Election is unprecedented, unjust, and goes against the constitution of the state of Florida." "Jim Baker's a jackass," God responded. "He's got some surprises ahead of him, let me tell you. HOT ones, if you know what I mean." God, who provided the exact vote counts for every Florida precinct, explained that bad balloting machinery and voter confusion were no grounds to give the White House to "a friggin' idiot." "Look, only 612 people in Palm Beach County voted for Buchanan. Get real! The rest meant to vote for Gore. Don't believe me? I'll name them: Anderson, Pete; Anderson, Sam, Jr.; Arthur, James; Barnhardt, Ron..." Our Lord then went on to note that he was displeased with George W. Bush's prideful ways and announced that he would officially smite him today. In an act of wrath unlike any reported since the Book of Job, God has taken all of Bush's goats and livestock, stripped him of his wealth and possessions, sold his family into slavery, forced the former presidential candidate into hard labor in a salt mine, and afflicted him with deep boils.
Gore Back in the Race!!!!!
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:37:42 (GMT)

Yes, Michael, I was. I don't really believe that Billy Bragg makes more than $30,000,000 a year. It was an admittedly lame attempt at humor. Are you policing that now, too?
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:29:09 (GMT)

Bob - Were you behind the "NEWSFLASH" post?
Michael
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:26:02 (GMT)

This is the way politics works in California. Legislation is introudced. Lobbyists for and against do their stuff. If the legislation passes both the California Assembly and the Senate and is signed by the governor, it becomes law. If bar owners organize and get legislation introduced that allows for certain bars to be smoking establishments, I would not object. However, I am not sure they have done this. Also, since the majority of Californians don't smoke, it may not be economically viable. Finally, I would refuse to enter a bar that was exclusively a smoking bar, so my friends would have to chose, cigarettes or me. Actually, my brother's wife refused to see me because I didn't smoke. She died of pneumonia. Her beloved habit literally killed her.
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:25:16 (GMT)

Milton keynes was excluded because it didn't have a football team and Luton was excluded because the football team couldn't afford to change it's name. Billericay should have been given city-ship. Still there is always 2002!
Dickie <doireallyhaveanopiniononthis?>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:24:23 (GMT)

Michael, I have no reply to that because I have absolutely no idea what you are implying.
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:17:33 (GMT)

Can't believe that Wolverhampton, Brighton & Hove, and Inverness have been made into cities! I'm sure no-one else cares but it narks me!
Dyl
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 17:16:20 (GMT)

Bob ö There is more to life than empty, contrarian rhetoric and baseless devil's advocacy. [Cue the Violent Femmes]... Didn't you notice... didn't you see... Something might happen to me... didn't you notice a chill in the wind... didn't you notice the world we're living in? People are dying...
Michael <secondhandopinions@rubberstamp>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:58:51 (GMT)

It may be a small and insignificant point, but if certain contributors to this page are so opposed to "nibbling around the edges" why do they bother to organise within trade unions. Surely they are one the greatest offenders - by their very nature they are reformist.
Dickie <pointingoutthebloodyobviousagain.>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:56:27 (GMT)

NEWSFLASH: Stern & Limbaugh Almost as Rich as Bragg . . . and Less Annoying Politically ~ http://www.drudgereport.com/rr.htm
Matt Drudge
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:42:08 (GMT)

erin, well the good for nothing library here has 2 copies of the lexus and the olive tree missing and another copy checked out till march. i'll track it down. picked up american patoral--philip roth. still need to finish zorba... so back to smoking and 50 dollar tickets. luther, i could have purchased a pocket full of crack, two Es, or a quarter of pot... but alas i just said no to drugs and plan on having a great time with people i've never met before, right jessica? at any rate erin, you sort out my life and i'll do the same for you. riddle me this... what the hell am i doing?
keri
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:33:39 (GMT)

Luther, I think you're a bully. Being a bully transcends politics - it means you're a shite person. You make me embarrassed to share some of your views because you're so horrible to people with different opinions. I only came on to shout about how great the Croydon show was - now I've got a bad taste in my mouth. Cheers.
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:26:57 (GMT)

I've told you repeatedly why I'm not a socialist Luther but since it's not the answer you want to hear you choose to ignore it. Go bother someone else Luther. Speak in your fake British accent and pose about your radical views while you sit in your room at the computer. Boring boring boring.
Barbara
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 16:02:49 (GMT)

I'd be happy with no-smoking bars and pubs, as long as they were alternated with "smoking" pubs...seems like an ideal arrangement. And now, if you'll excuse me... *politely lights a tab* :)
pete w <hardcoretim@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 15:44:35 (GMT)

The question, dear Michael, is whether or not people are willing to address the root of the problem. It's all very well for people like Barbara Ingalls to rant about how money-grubbing corporations run the world, trash the environment, and ruin people's lives, but if they're only going to nibble around the edges, never challenging capitalism itself, then what's the point? Barbara has repeatedly said that she's not a socialist. I want to know why not.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 15:12:01 (GMT)

Carol: Putting aside the law for a minute, would it be OK with you if I were to open a bar in San Francisco that catered to smokers? Non-smokers would, of course, be welcome, but it would be clear to staff and patrons that smoking *IS* allowed and *will* undoubtedly take place. Should adults be allowed to work in and patronise such an establishment or is it an affront to your desire to "protect" everyone's rights and health?
Bob
USA - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 15:01:34 (GMT)

I think you are on to something Steve. All these people with the words they use to form sentences to say stuff. It makes me sick too. They have done nothing to overthrow the system. Fortunately there are people like you and Luther who say what has to be said. You are able to say just the right things and expose the so-called "wishy washy" liberals for what they are! On my way to work today I almost made the mistake of getting breakfast at McDonalds. You'll be happy to learn that I had a quick change of heart and proceeded to smash the establishment's windows. Sure the minimum wage earners may have had to go home early without pay, but we must focus on the big picture. The broken shards of glass may be sharp and dangerous, but capitalism's teeth are much sharper. And besides, rocks beat files any day.
Michael <Yeah@whathesaid>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 14:54:40 (GMT)

if the management and the bar-staff were in agreement and the patrons were made aware could a bar set itself up as a 'smoking' bar
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 14:50:59 (GMT)

Brian--In California you are not arrested for smoking in a bar. You are asked to go outside. If the bartender does not inforce the law, the owner can be fined. Why does it offend people to have a law that benefits workers and people who, for a variety of reasons, don't want to breathe in second hand smoke?
Carol
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 14:35:01 (GMT)

To clarify - in California you can stock-pile a formidable collections of weaponry and drive around in a large gas-guzzling car that pumps crap into the air - but if you light up a ciggie in a bar you would be arrested
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 14:28:39 (GMT)

That last bit should read, with nothing to do. Has that worked now?
Sue Westcott <sue_westcott@hotmail.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 12:03:52 (GMT)

A big thank you to Billy and the Blokes for the last two gigs of the tour at Liverpool and Nottingham. Just amazing. I love the new stuff, especially Dreadbelly. Can't wait for the new album. Sorry to be so gushing, but I was one of the lucky punters in the front row last night who Billy hugged and wished Merry Christmas to. So I'm really, really happy despite the fact that I'm at work with nothing t
Sue Westcott <sue_westcott@hotmail.com>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 12:02:22 (GMT)

you know Luther has a perfetly valid point, why are all the so-called socialists not trying to ovethrow the system, considering all they do is bitch about every single negative they can find...Rev, the last sentance in your post at 20 17.18 says it all...
steve <raving socialist>
but likes to be known as a wishy washy liberal, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 11:40:16 (GMT)

(From guardianunlimited) The International Herald Tribune has a startling piece about the ethically dubious tests being carried out by big drug companies in the developing world. It highlights the harrowing case of a 10-year-old Nigerian girl, case number 6587-0069, who died three days after undergoing experimental treatment for meningitis at a clinic run by US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer. Hmmm, Globalisation? I think I'm against it. Spurs 2 Wengers whingers 0 - Don't forget where you saw it first.
Mystic Dickie <nextweekslotterynumbersavailable@aprice>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 11:25:39 (GMT)

Nottingham Rock City Sunday 17/12/00 Big thanx to BB & The Blokes.F**King brilliant!
Craig
Hull, - Monday, December 18, 2000 at 06:48:15 (GMT)

If I had wanted an argument, I would have gone to the Monty Python guestbook. (This isn't an argument, just a series of contradictions!) I came here thinking I might get reasoned discussion and actually learn something in the process. *sigh*
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 06:35:08 (GMT)

*bigger sigh* Forgive me for hoping you might be able to enlighten me - I hate it when those we look up to fail to meet our expectations. Again.
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 06:27:35 (GMT)

A member of the boss class spends $50 to see Bill play on New Year's Eve in NYC. He goes along, listens to some lyrics and some banter, and makes some realisations he hadn't made before. Perhaps he sees things from the perspective of his employees for a change. Then he goes back to work the next week and introduces benefits they didn't previously have -- maybe higher wages or health care. Doesn't the chance that might happen make playing the gig worthwhile?
Why is my hypothetical "so fucking preposterous"?
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 06:19:03 (GMT)

*sigh* Why is my hypothetical "so fucking preposterous", Luther? From a thinker such as yourself, I expected reasoned rational discussion rather than an out of hand dismissal. Once upon a time, I was a music fan who went to a Billy Bragg show and learned something about politics. So, it appears, were you. Does the fact (as you assert) that Bill's politics are somewhat less left than they used to be, mean that there are no more sheep left to listen to him, to learn to think further to the left than they do now? I don't think so. It appears you disagree with this assertion. Why? And to make another point clear, I'm not trying to defend or justify the $50 ticket price (which on today's exchange rate is about $91.70 in Australian money - a high price I agree), merely peel back the surface of the situation to examine the deeper issues. Forgive me for hoping you might be able to enlighten me - I hate it when those we look up to fail to meet our expectations.
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 04:02:42 (GMT)

Your point was not valid, Geoff, because your hypothetical was so fucking preposterous. And if you want to defend Bill's right to charge $50 ticket prices so that he can lecture to people about "compassionate capitalism" then go right ahead. Me? I'll be laughing at the hypocrisy and wondering what happened to the guy who first turned me on to socialist ideas.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 03:04:14 (GMT)

Luther: if my point is valid, then concede as much. If it isn't, please explain to me *why* it isn't, so I may learn and grow. Telling me it is unworthy of your answer is hardly going to teach me anything.
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:47:47 (GMT)

Luther: I wasn't trying to justify the cost of the ticket, merely present a *hypothetical* scenario - which you have done in the past to illustrate a point. I was interested to hear your analysis of the possible benefits of 'educating the sheep'. But if we sheep are unworthy of your response, how can you ever hope to guide us to the promised land of Socialist Nirvana? (Which I agree is an admirable ideal, but one which in a practical context we are unlikely to experience.) Similarly, if there are audiences who have yet to hear Billy Bragg (whether you agree with what he has to say or not) then shouldn't he continue to take every opportunity to sing to them and talk to them, just as you feel you need to take every opportunity to remind us of the benefits of the stateless classless society you espouse?
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:46:17 (GMT)

By the way, Geoff: I've just reviewed your question (Saturday, November 25, 2000 at 05:33:41) and still find it to be a laughable justification for Bill's $50 ticket prices. You're grasping at straws trying to defend him, mate.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:30:40 (GMT)

And Barbara can choose not to answer my question, of course. But I every time she bitches about evil corporations, I will continue to ask her why she isn't fundamentally opposed to the system which supports them. Her position of complaining about capitalism but not wanting to overthrow it is untenable.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:20:50 (GMT)

I found your question to be unworthy of an answer, Geoff.
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:17:33 (GMT)

Luther: why do you insist on pressing Barbara to answer your question? It seems she chooses not to, much as you choose not to answer mine. {see Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 08:46:07 (GMT)} Of course in your Socialist Utopia, we'd all be equal and the same courtesies would apply to all, wouldn't they?
geoff
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:15:08 (GMT)

Again, Barbara: Stop with the schoolyard insults and answer the question. Can you answer the question?
Luther Gaylord
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 02:04:15 (GMT)

Why do you constantly feel it necessary to tell everybody how to be? You hate human beings more than any other person I've ever met - you ooze your contempt for people with every line you write. Your dream of society where you dictate all forms of action and thought has no attraction to me Luther. Line up and be just like Luther. NO thank you.
Barbara
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 00:52:33 (GMT)

AND you can put me on the record as a Californian who is VERY MUCH PLEASED with the bar smoking ban. I like to dance and that requires (for me) much clean air.) I come home and can go to sleep without having to wash my hair! I can wear the same coat the next day and not get ill from the smell of it! Banning smoking in bars has done WONDERFUL things for a lot of us! (including my friend who has asthma)
Susan <sorry about the shoddy writing style on the Dan Bern report. I'm in a hurry...>
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 00:24:43 (GMT)

Whoa, that's a load of crap about D.B. being booed. I don't think anyone said boo. Dan Bern did do an impression of McEnroe having a fit (Like, he was making fun of him...) bern did smash up his guitar and we stood astonished, but I don't recall anyone booing at all. I remarked to my friend "Whoa, he's crazy!" but I was rather impressed. I don't think I've ever been at a show where someone smashed a guitar (didn't see the Who till their later years...) Why would NPR wanna go and blow that story SO out of proportion. Later in the show Bern did remark that the opening act, Jim Page did not stay for his whole show and implied that Jim Page had said it was a waste of a perfectly good guitar...
Susan
- Monday, December 18, 2000 at 00:12:30 (GMT)

Thanks, you're a gentleman (as always). With regard to people on here being 'part of the problem' I assume you'll just have to gas us all.
Carsten
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:46:36 (GMT)

Well, Barbara, what do you think? Does the suggested answer below accurately summarize your position? Is that why you're a liberal, rather than a socialist?
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:42:38 (GMT)

Here's a suggested answer for you, Barbara, since your own political analysis appears to go no deeper than "I hate cops": I think that capitalism is the only workable economic system. I don't believe that socialism could ever work because the vast majority of human beings are greedy and self-interested. Nevertheless, I'm not a social Darwinist. I recognize that while capitalism is the only workable economic system, it still fucks over millions of people at the bottom of the food chain. And like my hero Billy Bragg, I have compassion for those people. So instead of advocating the overthrow of capitalism, I believe that we should leave it in place but do everything possible to provide a safety net for those whom the system hits hardest.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:41:30 (GMT)

Fuck off, Carsten.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:41:21 (GMT)

Change the record, Gaylord.
Carsten
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:38:19 (GMT)

Rather than resorting to elementary school retorts, Barbara, please explain to me why it is that you constantly complain about capitalism, yet are uninterested in overthrowing it. Why aren't you a socialist?
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 22:07:51 (GMT)

The guestbook cop has spoken! Be like Luther, or shut up. Okay everybody, mailbomb someone you don't agree with.
Barbara <Ifeelbetteralready>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 21:37:42 (GMT)

Since you're only interested in filing down capitalism's sharp teeth, Barbara, I suggest that you put a sock in it. When you're finally committed to overthrowing capitalism and replacing it with a system in which corporations can't rule our lives, then you can resume your whinging. In the meantime, you and others like you are part of the problem.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 21:24:11 (GMT)

Awww Carol don't brag, (if you'll excuse the expression) it's snowing again.
************Barbara*********
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:38:20 (GMT)

What jobs have been created to replace the ones lost overseas?
Barbara <wouldyoulikefrieswiththat?@myjob.com>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:37:10 (GMT)

erin: really now, what sort of jobs are workers supposed to educate themselves to do when a robot can do it better and cheaper--and that includes thinking, creating, reproducing (other robots), etc? The real answer is for the people to own the corporations and for the robots to work for them. I am not saying this will necessarily happen. I'm just hoping. We can have utopia or distopia--Bladerunner or The News From Nowhere. But I don't think we are going to have a benign capitalism 30 years from now.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco and I am going for a walk in the sun now, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:36:39 (GMT)

Plus Erin, do you think it's a coincidence that these corporations are moving to countries where dissent is impossible and resistance is stomped out? What power do workers in Vietnam or Cambodia or the Phillipines have? How much union representation is in place? How about ecological consideration? I'm not xenophobic - I'd like the American Online workers to have bathroom breaks.
Barbara
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:35:08 (GMT)

The role of workers may be changing from hour to hour, but that does not mean we should give over to the corporations the decent living we AND phillipine workers deserve. The role of the corporation is increased return to shareholders not to better the lot of the worker. Thomas Friedman in his little glass tower eats their arguments whole and refuses to look at ground level how "Free Trade" damages the most poor and underprivliged workers. I am not against globalization, that is kind of like being against intake of oxygem, it's a fact. What I object to is the pitting of worker against worker, of corporation against the climate and the trivilization of resistance, which is what Friedman excels at. I read his descriptions of the demonstrations in Seattle and DC and he parrots the corporate line. What about the wholesale exportation of jobs to prisons in China? Is that going to better their lot and make them better and more reposnbile political prisoners?
Barbara <moremoneyisthewholepointbetteringthereturnforthemselvesisthepoint>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:29:56 (GMT)

maybe i'm being naive and i've just not read many capitalist manifestos, barbara, but it would appear to me that in 'the lexus and the olive tree', the hope at least is to use globalization for the good of everyone...for example: so america online takes its customer service branch to the philippines because they'll work there for less than you could feed a dog with in the states. but what happens when these workers, answering customer service questions from people in nebraska, realize that their very own jobs are enabling them to educate themselves? they become capable of creating 'philippine online'. and meanwhile americans who no longer have those customer service jobs are qualified and available to perform a similar and perhaps more complex job. i know that may sound condescending, but i do not mean it in that way. while some might consider multinational corporations as creatures that exploit workers, i really think it could also be construed, and not just in a propagandist sense, as empowering workers. how else would an unconnected nation learn? the role of the worker is changing from hour to hour...the idea of increasing the number of factories operated by robotics is not to have a society of machines with mournful unemployed labourers wallowing around and whinging about their lives being stolen. dare i say that the idea is for everyone to step up at the same time, educate himself, and improve his own standards? why depend on a government or an ideology, neither of which ever capable of escaping corruption, to put food on your table?
erin <someofthatisdevilsadvocacy@justwanttogetthetopicawayfromsmoking.com>
bellingham, washington - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:21:27 (GMT)

Again I ask, Barbara: If you're so critical of corporations and capitalism, why aren't you a socialist? Did you really think that voting for Ralph Nader was a revolutionary act which would fundamentally change things? Or do you actually *like* the status quo, because it gives you something to bitch about?
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 20:17:18 (GMT)

DEMONSTRATION TO PROTEST ASSAULT ON WBAI RADIO AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH Contact: Concerned Friends of WBAI, 800-825-0055 When: Wednesday, December 20 Where: Outside the law offices of Epstein, Becker & Green, 250 Park Ave between 46/47th Time: 5 p.m. Weeks after Pacifica's undemocratic actions against New York station WBAI---99.5 FM, the Pacifica Foundation has refused to budge from its attempted removal of WBAI's long-time General Manager, Valerie Van Isler. While the staff at WBAI continues to refuse to honor the decision, the listeners are taking to the streets to re-claim their radio station. Outraged listeners say it is up to them to rescue the people's radio from an increasingly corporatized Pacifica National Board. The removal of Van Isler is not the first, but the most recent, assault on the autonomy of WBAI and other Pacifica stations. Many fear that Pacifica's attack on the station echoes the 1999 removal of KPFA's general manager. This firing led to the temporary closing of the station, the arrests of staff and listeners, and Pacifica's controversial hiring of armed security guards who prevented staff and volunteers from broadcasting for several weeks. The protest will take place outside the law firm of John Murdock, who is a recent addition to the Pacifica National Board. Murdock's law firm, Epstein, Becker & Green, proudly specializes in "maintaining a union-free work place." At the same time, Murdock's law firm is currently representing the Pacifica Foundation in several law suits filed against Pacifica. Concerned Friends of WBAI is committed to freedom of speech and the democratic founding principles of Pacifica Radio.
Barbara <excusetheinterruptiongobacktoarguingaboutwhetheracorporatemediashillisagoodsourceofnews>
tomfriedmanisnofriendtoworkersthatsforsure, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 19:54:55 (GMT)

Bob, Steve and John Stossel--you haven't decried the law against public defecation yet.
Carol <liberalanddamnproud@regualteeverything.gov>
San Fancisco, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 17:09:23 (GMT)

Hi Sonja. When you are going to be able to receive email? Kate and I miss your messages. Hope all goes well and you are ensconced in a job soon. I like the word ensconce because it sounds like some kind of Scottish biscuit. Hope your appliances are all safe and functioning.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco where the sun is shining today, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 17:06:40 (GMT)

With specific regards to Stossel's report: "Smoking Mad - Do Politicians Have the Right to Ban Smoking in Public Places," he states that "We don't know that [smoking outdoors] is hurting anybody." This is a claim made straight from the mouths of tobacco lobbyists who maintain that secondhand smoke indoors, as well as outdoors, is not hurting anybody and that cigarette smoking does not even cause lung cancer. Give me a break!
Michael <youcan'tseparatethemedia@fromthemess>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 15:38:45 (GMT)

Bob ö I'll be honest and tell you right up front that I did not read your last post. But I did give serious consideration to your demand that if I don't have an opinion on the smoking ban then I should "shut the fuck up." So I decided to read through the earlier posts and could not help but notice that you have completely failed to provide an opinion of your own. I love the smell of irony in the morning. Steve ö Did you find your spine yet?
Michael <Iwishtherewasnosmoking@lastnight'spub>
Shillville, USA - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 15:16:56 (GMT)

Bob: Ayn Rand Cult by Jeff Walker
James <flooding in my basement-Rats!!>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 14:41:39 (GMT)

I am much too hung over from the telephonist night out to scroll through all the new stuff on here. Looks like there has been some good contributions though so i'll print it of to enjoy when i feel a bit better. Thanks for the good luck wishes about the job. I should hear on tuesday.
sonj
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 13:22:03 (GMT)

17 December 2000 Ref management of the NHS I have been a nurse for over 30 years.I would like to see a open discussion concerning the health service and more consideration given to the rank and file.The system that has emerged is unworkable.Having written to the Prime Minister I received a reply from the communications unit that the department oh health would be responding.As it appears that details of oral sex sent by e-mail are more news worthy that the working conditions of the nurse and poor care of patients. I imagine that my letter will be ignored..It is this double standard a appreciation for nurses but a total disregard for their health,safety or the quality of their lives that is partly to blame for the poor morale.I enclose the full text of my letter if it deemed news worthy. Dear Sir or Madame Tories attack lies.of 20,000 extra nurses Had the conservative party been a little more truthful they might have won the last election.Yet on nursing the labour party has been very poor.I suggest these solutions end all restrictions on the ability of working people to organise themselves.Return student nurses to the apprenticeship system that predated it and on a wage.Reintroduce the state enrolled system.Review the benefit system to ensure that those who wish to take up nursing are not penalised.Further the increase in student nurses taking degrees does not gurantee nurses at the end.One might add that student nurses receive a bursary and other undergraduates do not.That the decline and other problems in higher education now reflect the present governments stratergy. For the past 50 years the main solution to the nurse shortage is to go overseas for staff why does the management feel so unable to do anything new.? Yours Sincerely Patrick Cooper-Duffy RMNRNMSDIP RUSKIN Bsc Cert Education
Patrick <PHCDUFFY12@aol>
Soton, uk - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 12:14:32 (GMT)

Bob, more please........Geoff and I are meeting to discuss Buckskins and Buggery if anyone in or near Brisbane wants to meet with the brisbane Bragg chapter for coffe/apple juice contact me or geoff... and we can talk wishy washy liberal stuff..no bollox to that stick yo music
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 08:55:26 (GMT)

Michael goes to the store: Cashier: Hello, nice day isn't it? Michael: I don't know. The weatherman is a corporate shill who believes in free markets. Cashier: Yes, but can't you see the sun shining? Michael: I no longer look at weather because I just don't trust the weather man. Look what they say about him at www.fairweather.org/weathermanisafascist.html. Cashier: I don't care. I think I'll go to the beach. Michael: Prove to me the weatherman is not a free market corporate shilling integrity-less slave to the man. Cashier: Um, I have no interest in the weatherman. I just thought I'd point out the lovely weather. Michael: I'm not sure if the weather *is* lovely. Don't you think the weatherman's lack of integrity is more important. Cashier: Couldn't you ask someone else about the weather or just peek outside the window and see how beautiful it is. Michael: It's painfully obvious that the weatherman cheats on his wife, beats his dog, eats fatty foods, is too much of a stupid fucking American to understand Billy Elliot, and to top it all off, he thinks adults should be allowed to smoke outside in the open air. Therefore, I refuse to listen to his weather report. Don't you care about his integrity. He has NO INTEGRITY. Can't you see that? Cashier: No, I don't care about the weatherman's integrity. Just commenting on the weather. Sorry I asked. Have a nice day. ::backing away, trying to avoid eye contact::
Bob <feelfreetodebatemenotjohnstossel@strawman.com>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 08:29:46 (GMT)

is there anyone here from easington, please you must be wetting yourself laughing
steve
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 07:54:40 (GMT)

Michael: Maybe you are thick and don't understand . . . I don't give a fuck about John Stossel's journalistic integrity. I think the article and the issue it deals with is interesting. If you don't, then fine. If you can point out inaccuracies in this specific article I'd be glad to hear it. If not, then give it a rest.
Bob
USA - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 07:53:59 (GMT)

Carol your response to Billy Elliot was that it is a ballet film??? were you pissed when you saw it, as if Ballet is the essence of the film? yes, he's a boy in a mining village who wants to do ballet. but the movie would not have been different if he had wanted to do something else that boys (esp. in mining village) aren't typically encouraged to do and which would cause his sexuality to be questioned -- like a fashion designer. and the little girl who wanted to show Billy her 'fanny' was not middle class by any stretch of the imagination, they lived in a bungalow in Easington(not middle class) he was a typical conservative ex miner who lost his job and was against the strike because Arthur Scarfill rightly didnt go for a strike vote,many miners turned because of this, the smile on Billy's face when he asked the guy what he did for work should have explained this to you..because a few Ballet people were in the audience it doesnt mean it was a ballet film,I loved the music does that mean it was a Trex film, although I understand you can never be wrong and all your assumptions are true, in real life Jamie Bell(Billy) had to hide his dancing skills from school mated, for the same reason shown in the film.
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 07:52:15 (GMT)

Brian: thanks for mentioning one of my favourite Liverpudlain (then to Australia and Sweden) musicians ... Marty Willson-Piper. I'm guessing he didn't write 'She's King' about Maggie. :)
geoff
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 07:28:21 (GMT)

bob, in answer to your question, "What does John Stossel's journalistic integrity have to do with that story," I'll simply point out that he wrote it, and that he lies about organics, pesticides, the workplace, public schools, AIDS, garbage collection, manufacturing, and the nuclear industry. Once again, bob, do you really think John Stossel has journalistic integrity? Inquiring minds want to know...
MicBIGBOYhael <Painfully@Obvious>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 07:27:25 (GMT)

http://www.friesian.com/quiz.htm
David Nolan <nolanchart@diamondquiz.com>
USA - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 05:20:43 (GMT)

Doh. Make that "Days Like These".
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 04:25:48 (GMT)

Some bloke has updated Bill's "Day's Like These" to criticize New Labour. http://www.Whitlow.demon.co.uk/ It's too bad Bill hasn't done this himself.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 04:23:57 (GMT)

I've just got back from seeing Bill and the Blokes in Liverpool and as usual it was a shit hot gig. I have to admit I miss the old solo Billy (some of us just can't move on I'm afraid) but I do love the new arrangements of Milkman and The Marriage amongst others. The Blokes are great musicians but Billy's heroic effort, playing without his A string, in the last three songs was inspirational. Well done guys and thanks. Cheers Andy.
Andy Tyrrell <andybragg237@yahoo.co.uk>
Grimsby, England - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 04:20:23 (GMT)

James: Can you give me a reference for the Ayn Rand anorexia story? I find that interesting and would like to read more about it.
Bob
USA - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 04:06:05 (GMT)

One thing you can say about cigarettes, they killed Ayn Rand (though not quick enough) She lived most of her life as a chain smoking- pill poping anorexic, going from one bad relationship to another. She refused to accept that cigarette smoking was dangerous. John Stossel is one of her disciples.
james
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 03:42:11 (GMT)

erin: I have not read Friedman, but I have heard him described as an anti-union, capitalist apologist on a Bragg email list. I have no idea what his true opinions are, but here is my take on what you said. I, too, think that it is foolish to try to stop globalization. However, what this means to the environment and to the economic well being of the world's population is another story. At this moment robots are being developed that can do just about everything we do. When it becomes economically viable, corporations will start replacing workers with robotics. Corporate capitalism isn't a kind old rich uncle. It just looks for profits, and it doesn't care how those profits are made. When jobs disappear, there will be worldwide dissention, maybe even revolution. Hopefully the people will collectively come up with a solution. I do not predict what that solution will be. I hope I didn't make up the word dissention. Oh well, I like supple language. And I like supple libertarians. That means I like Bob, even if he wants to regulate public sex.
Carol <San Francisco>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 02:50:51 (GMT)

Bob, are you insinuating I am a stupid liberal? Are you going to ban me from Mass General? Is that because you are afraid to align yourself with Jackson Hole and George Michael? Does second hand public wanking really effect anyone? Come on, Bob, show your true colors. Don't be a sexual fascist. Either "come" on over to the real liberationist side or forever be called a pro regulation Democrat.
Carol
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 02:43:25 (GMT)

Michael: What does John Stossel's "journalistic integrity" have to do with that story? Are you alleging that the Friendship Heights smoking ban does not exist? Did Stossel lie about that? I'm pretty sure the story's true but feel free to check any other source. If you can't lower yourself enough to read the article and you don't have an opinion on the smoking ban then shut the fuck up. Carol, stupid liberals make me puke. I'm going to try to ban them from appearing in public in the state of Massachusetts. I need to protect people with delicate sensibilities like mine. No vote necessary. It's just how I feel. I hope you understand. Soon you'll all realize that it's for the general welfare.
Bob <inmyplasticbubble@afraidoftheworld.com>
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 01:57:29 (GMT)

Exactly 6 months ago today I uploaded a set of HTML files to my ISP to kick off the Braggtopia! website - now it's somewhat larger, pushing 50MB and still growing......(Help !) :-) To celebrate I've set up an Italian double bill of two very rare Bragg related MP3s on the site. Firstly there's an Italian cover version of "Ingrid Bergman" by the band La Sorribanda which is quite apt for a song about an Italian movie. The other track is Bill's take (along with the Italian band The Gang) on The Clash's "Junco Partner" - a rare chance to hear Bill cover his favourite band with something other than "Garageland". For those who are interested - in the discography I've also added a (?) icon to most of the album, singles and miscellaneous listings. Click on the icon to reveal more info about each release. And finally....don't forget The Annual Billy Bragg Quiz - the closing date for entries is only two weeks away ! All of the above is available at : - http://www.webone.com.au/~bragg - So pull up a bowl of spaghetti and a bottle of chianti and enjoy ! - Ciao! - Braggtopia! - The Ultimate Billy Bragg Website
Mark Warner <bragg@webone.com.au>
Braggtopia!, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 01:45:01 (GMT)

Going to the Rock City Nottingham today to see Bill. Hope it' going to be as good as last Tuesday at the same venue, it was Shane MacGowan and Stiff Little Fingers. It was absolutely F**king excellent! I know Mr Bragg won't disappoint. God long live live music.
Craig
Hull, - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 01:30:48 (GMT)

and brian, keri is right. she's not allowed to marry a londoner quite yet. we've got swedes to spend time with in jukkis jarvi first. and before she goes too far east, i plan to drive home the point (hopefully can recruit susan, too) that this is the best coast. ('...oh yeah? well you know what? _this_ one is the _shining_ sea!)
erin
bellingham, washington - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 01:11:21 (GMT)

even further north now, and high as a kite because i had to wait at the horseshoe cafe for three hours drinking coffee this morning before i could check into my hotel (well, i guess i didn't have to...but), i simply must ask the question again--has anyone read 'the lexus and the olive tree'? steve from oz ex-sunderland, your ideas in particular i would be interested to hear. the book's about the encroachment of globalization. lexus represents the technologically progressive world, olive tree represents the traditional and more isolationist world....the book gives pros and cons about globalization and the point seems to be that it doesn't matter whether or not you support free-market capitalism; in the post-cold war globalization era there is simply no other choice. because we increasingly know through the web how everyone else lives, it is no longer possible to deny to your constituents the liberties and opportunities that democratization fosters. friedman does an excellent job of illustrating how this has done terrible things in some cases, re multinationals moving factories to cheap-labour countries and exploiting labour there, and very good things in other cases, re improvement of working conditions in a sri lankan garment factory because the FLA and other activists have made garment manufacturers aware that consumers will not purchase their products if they are made with less-than-acceptable working-condition standards. man, i just want everyone to read this and chat about it! carol, steve, bob, even pete c. i have a hard time getting through the economics bits, but the foreign policy and industry parts are so interesting that even the money stuff is making sense. someone just read the first section...the introduction is excellent.
erin
bellingham, washington - Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 01:07:19 (GMT)

That is a great post, Carol.
Michael
- Sunday, December 17, 2000 at 00:00:45 (GMT)

Keri: cheers for the morrissey lyrics - Viva Hate is by turn fantastic and flawed - can't stand the lyrics to Bengali in Flares - seems a tad patronising (unless he is being wildly ironic) - maybe I am missing the point but also when he draped himself in the Union Jack in front of massive backdrop featuring pictures of skinheads at the Madness re-union gig and sending wreaths to the Krays funerals are a bit.......!?! Shame - as I think he is one of greatest lyricists of all time
Brian
London, UK - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:55:42 (GMT)

Hmmmmmmm, surprising that Bob is against questions, apparently, John Stossel, and Bob in particular, are wrong and misleading.
Mayor Alfred Muller
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:49:24 (GMT)

Jackson Whole and George Michael believe in public wanking--so we have two votes for libertarian sex.
carol
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:49:20 (GMT)

Once again, Bob, do you really think John Stossel has journalistic integrity?
Michael <"Yeah, that's what I thought.">
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:36:37 (GMT)

just checking the web for anti-thatcher songs (Evil Queen of England by Marty Willson-Piper, Stand Down Margaret by The Beat, Shitting on Britain by The Shamen) and found a curious thing - a site called www.Whitlow.demon.co.uk and someone has recorded Days Like These (Part Two) "Billy Bragg wrote the original version of this song. It became one of the great anti-Thatcher anthems of the age. Two decades later, and a Labour Government is feeding us much the same medicine. So I kept the tune and rewrote the lyrics from scratch" - you can hear a real audio version (very rough quality) - anyone know anything more about it - the page fails to mention the name of the guy who recorded it (I assume it's a Mr Whitlow)
Brian
London, UK - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:27:01 (GMT)

wadda bunch of bunk. blocking my wordz from a list, cause some blokes, can't handle a peppery side dish. wank this, mate.
jackson whole
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 23:04:11 (GMT)

brian, want a match or a lighter?
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 21:31:54 (GMT)

Carsten, yes a cracking result Celtic 6-0 Aberdeen! Wot not 'GERS online?
Craig
Hull, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 21:15:26 (GMT)

anyone got a light?
Brian
London, UK - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 21:15:01 (GMT)

RE; Brians question.. who sung 'How does it feel to be the mother of a thousand dead?' It was Crass.
Craig
Hull, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 21:05:15 (GMT)

i'll advocate for sex in libraries and on bridges. in utah they don't smoke because they're all mormons...
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:45:23 (GMT)

i'm too young to ruin my health. i'm still of the opinion that car exhaust/air pollution is killing me too... and i don't drive anymore. how good is the air quailty legislation? and the air in my workplace is enough to give me asthma after 10 years of employment.
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:42:04 (GMT)

Carol - In answer to your question to Bob. Yes, Stossle was disciplined for knowlingly using incorrect news sources. Twice I think. Bob - I think the man lacks integrity and I don't read his "reports" anymore. So there is nothing for me to point out about the particular story that you posted, other than to say that it was written by a corporate shill. When did I say I was "aginst markets?"
Michael <stopputtingwordsinmymouth>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:40:32 (GMT)

The ban works for me, Luther, becuase now I can go to bars. Before the smoke kept me out for health reasons. The people who smoke go outside and smoke and then come back and drink, then go outside and smoke, etc. The bar owners have been unhappy about it, but I can't see that it effects their business that much. Bartenders don't like to enforce the law, though. California has the second lowest lung cancer rate in the US--and htis has happened since the anti-smoking laws started came into effect. The state that is number 1 is Utah. The fact is, the vast majority of Californians don't smoke. And I guess the same goes for Utah. But let's get onto another more interesting subject before I decorate my Christmas stump--what about outdoor sex? Should it be regulated, banned or totally permitted? What is the libertarian view of this? Obvioulsy, there are no perils that innocent bystanders will get puked on or develop asthma from two people shagging in the bushes.
Carol
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:33:18 (GMT)

I will never the Friday evening in Montreal` when my wife and I looked up and reallized we were the only couple in the whole establishment who weren't smoking. Another issue; if the Bragg Office is viewing, Can I suggust a collaboration of Billy Bragg with skiffle artist Lonnie Donneigan. Would be fabulous!
james
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:31:05 (GMT)

I meant drinking in bars, and the effects of second hand puke. Although cigarette smoke makes me barf. As I said, I am of two minds about smoking outdoors. The smoke effects me because I live in a neighborhood of bars. Really. I mostly drink at home. But I am quitting. My stomach can't take it anymore. Pete W: you should try to quit. You are too young to ruin your health.
Carol
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:26:23 (GMT)

For whom does the ban "work" Carol?
Luther Gaylord
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:25:26 (GMT)

I guess if we banned smoking in bars, people wouldn't be exposed to second hand barf. The smoking ban in bars works in California, keri.
Carol <San Francisco>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:22:20 (GMT)

ummm....I know my teenage, small-town kind of viewpoint isn't a good excuse for being a blinkered fascist etc, but a law against smoking outside *is* rather fascist. There can really be very little danger to non-smokers from just happening to walk past people who smoke in the streets, and certainly nothing quantifiable enough to justify the restriction on one's freedom to fuck up one's lungs, impose unnecessary burdens on the health service, be an antisocial foul-breathed arsehole and so forth :) as for smoking in pubs and bars, i remain non-committal; there's definitely a case for safeguarding the health of employees and non-smoking customers, but even then it's still a slight overreaction to stamp out smoking anywhere except the streets and smoker's own homes. I can't speajk fro America, but in Britain a huge percentage of people smoke. Most of us (I *am* speaking from a smoker's viewpoint*) restrain while around people who object out of courtesy, but bars and pubs are one of the few places left, even here, where it's permissible. Encroaching anti-smoking legislation is quite unashamedly a move towards stamping out smoking completely, either directly or indirectly. In the grey areas of public places and pubs, i think a balance has to be found between a sensible and humane need to minimise health risks and the need to avoid a sanitised society where what's good for you - or not - is prescribed by authority. I don't mind putting out my tab to avoid pissing people off, but neither do i want to be arrested for walking down the street with a cancer stick wedged between my fingers :)
pete w <does that sound like an exam essay? :)>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 20:20:18 (GMT)

Margaret On The Guillotine The kind people have a wonderful dream Margaret on the guillotine because people like you make me feel so tired when will you die? when will you die? when will you die? when will you die? when will you die? because people like you make me feel so old inside please die and kind people do not shelter this dream make it real make the dream real make the dream real make it real
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:56:19 (GMT)

I tended bar for many years and worked around cigarette and cheap cigar (DiNapoli- all of the long shoreman smoked them) smoke. I still get bouts or respiratory infections from second hand exposure. The stuff in rank. I feel that people who smoke more than 1 pack/day, aren't paying enough taxes. How's that for the liberterians.
james
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:47:13 (GMT)

LONDON (Reuters) - President Clinton enjoyed a pub lunch in London's trendy Notting Hill area -- and then left without paying the bill, British newspapers reported Friday. ``They bloody well did not pay the bill,'' pub owner Mike Bell was quoted as saying by the Guardian. ``But I have got the address of someone in America I can send the bill to,'' Bell said. Clinton chatted to staff and customers at the Portobello Gold pub Thursday as he and his entourage tucked into a menu that included prawns (shrimp), smoked trout and pecan nut pate, the newspapers said. He washed down his meal with half a pint of organic beer before leaving without paying the check -- which came to 24.70 pounds ($36.22). But the U.S. leader needn't worry. Britain's mass circulation Mirror tabloid said it had stepped in and covered his tab. The Mirror quoted a happier sounding Bell as saying: ``I wouldn't quite say he did a runner. I just don't think it occurred to him to pay.'' Clinton, who was in London as part of a visit to Britain and the Irish Republic, dropped into the pub after spending the morning having tea with Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace.
Pam <afterall@heissoontobeunemployed>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:46:41 (GMT)

Regarding John Stossel, the story was that he did an expose` on organic food and organic farmers. It turns out that he made statements concerning pestiside residues and bacteria that were totally unsubstantiated. He eluded to laboratory analysis that was never performed. He apologized for the story but was never disciplined. Many organic farmers in California, as well as other states are planning a law suit. This is the first time he got caught. He has, according to Michael Moore, done this in the past. He is out to promote his objectivist libertarian viewpoint. Can't let something trivial like the truth get in the way.
james <summerfallwinterspring98@juno.com>
Bush League - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:42:46 (GMT)

Susan: Please take a look at http://hillstrom.iww.org/wait.html and tell me if NPR's report was accurate. I know that Dan smashed his guitar during "Wood Fucking Racquet" but I didn't think the audience reacted as NPR indicates. It's up to you to set the story straight.
Luther Gaylord
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:42:25 (GMT)

i think all hell would break loose if they baned smoking in nyc bars. i guess one could also drink at home too.
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:41:46 (GMT)

Regarding John Stossel, the story was that he did an expose` on organic food and organic farmers. It turns out that he made statements concerning pestiside residues and bacteria that were totally unsubstantiated. He eluded to laboratory analysis that was never performed. He apologized for the story but was never disciplined. Many organic farmers in California, as well as other states are planning a law suit. This is the first time he got caught. He has, according to Michael Moore, done this in the past. He is out to promote his objectivist libertarian viewpoint. Can't let something trivial like the truth get in the way.
james <summerfallwinterspring98@juno.com>
Bush League - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:41:41 (GMT)

As I said, Keri, smokers can smoke in their homes. The problem is, outdoors is space used by everyone--and you can feel the effects of second hand smoke there as well as in public indoor spaces. I really don't know the answer to the question, but it is hardly anything I am going to get bent out of shape about. Smokers here in California like to call those who regulate where they can smoke "fascists." I think people who impose smoke on others are also fascists. Not really--that is an exaggeration. If a law against outside smoking were passed in San Francisco, I would neither defend or oppose it. How's that for a cop out?
carol
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:37:14 (GMT)

but carol... what do you think of having a law passed? a bit too far don't you think?
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 19:03:04 (GMT)

Bob--Wasn't Jon Stossel disciplined recently for knowlingly using incorrect news sources in a story? Do you really think he has integrity? As for smoking, I live below a cafe where the patrons go outside to smoke. If I have my window open, the smoke bellows into my apartment. It stinks up everything. I just don't feel great compassion for smokers who can do it in the privacy of their own homes. If they are homeless, I feel for them, but a homeless woman used to camp on my front doorstep, and the smoke used to careen up the stairs into my bedroom. When I asked her not to smoke, she would stare at me and quote the kama sutra.
Carol
Bagdad by the Bay, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:58:53 (GMT)

I found the article about British film interesting, but I think I know more about the subject without having to resort to an "expert." First of all, the term kitchen-sink was used in the theater of the 50's, particularly concerning the plays of John Osborne. Many films of the "social-realist" tradition came out in the late 50's, early 60's: Look Back in Anger (based the Osborne play, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner. However, because of the cold war, many critics used the term kitchen-sink and social realism in a pejorative sense--anything that emphasized working class frustrations might be construed as, heaven help us, Marxist. All the same, there were other films about the working class (or lower middle class) that weren't social-realist, for example, Billy Liar. These were great films that I saw in my early 20's. There are many British films that use other styles besides the realism used by Loach and Alan Clark--Terrance Davies' autobiographical trilogy about his Catholic working class family in Liverpool comes to mind (Distant Voices, Still Lives and The Long Day Closes). However, Billy Elliott falls under another tradition--the ballet film. I saw it in a theater in Pacific Heights in San Francisco--the place was filled with retired blue-haired socialites who LOVE ballet. I am sure they cared not one whit about the strike. But they sure love ballet, even though the dance sequences weren't done particularly well--they had that irritating "let's make lots of weird cuts of people jumping in the air to mime dance movements no person could possibly truly make" quality. Although there were some interesting aspects about the miners strike and the lives of the people in that area, they were just sort of there with no real purpose. A remarkable scene was of the little girl walking with Billy and running a stick of something along a wall--she comes to a wall of police shields and continues to run the stick along them as well. This would have been more effective if the girl hadn't been middle class with a father who was against the strike. The girl did not seem to disagree with her father's assessment. What if it had been a sly act of defiance on the part of Billy's male friend, for example? As for Brassed Off, I don't think that it was supposed to take place in or around Durham so of course there were no real Geordies in it. From what I understand, lots of it was filmed in Yorkshire. What really perturbed me about the article that Steve quoted was its glorification of Hollywood films. Those are not exclusive standards and I won't be able to see many movies if they become even more dominant than they are now. I won't be able to see them because I usually stomp out of a typical Hollywood insult to my intelligence fest half way through the movie. However, there were moments in Billy Elliot that I liked, and the performance of Gary Lewis as the father was wonderful. Unfortunately, it ultimately is just another clichŽd and sentimental poor kid gets a scholarship to a prestigious dance school film÷anyone for Flashdance?
Carol
San Francisco, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:50:20 (GMT)

i'm against abc.
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:31:17 (GMT)

Yeah, that's what I thought.
Bob
USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:23:49 (GMT)

what's going on michael?
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:10:52 (GMT)

Hmmmmmm, surprising that Michael is against markets and, apparently, John Stossel and ABC. Michael, is there something in the particular story that I posted that is wrong or misleading? If so, please point it out.
Bob
USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 18:07:13 (GMT)

Thanks Keri.
Michael
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 17:59:38 (GMT)

"I started out by viewing the marketplace as a cruel place, where you need intervention by government and lawyers to protect people. But after watching the regulators work, I have come to believe that markets are magical and the best protectors of the consumer. It is my job to explain the beauties of the free market." ABC News correspondent John Stossel
Michael <twosides@ofeverystory>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 17:58:39 (GMT)

i think michael was refering to ABC news... it's about worse place to get any news from. down with ted koppel!!!
keri
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 17:55:10 (GMT)

Celtic 6 - Aberdeen 0 :)
Carsten <how'sthatforaresult?>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 17:46:35 (GMT)

Michael: I wrote the stupid fucking law! How's that for a source?
Mayor Alfred Muller
Maryland, USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 17:39:22 (GMT)

Mayor Alfred Muller: You may want to reconsider your source... http://www.fair.org/media-outlets/stossel.html
Michael
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 16:30:01 (GMT)

Question: Has the pope ever had a problem with fascist leaders? http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/europe/newsid_1072000/1072907.stm
Carsten <theanswerssimple:nonever>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 15:48:03 (GMT)

susan, what do you mean the 'best' coast? pleeeese. sure brian i'll take you out for a curry and show you the cool echo thingy in grand central station. erin, i guess you didn't check in. and of course after indulging i just fell asleep on the couch. thanks for bring up leisure--it's been a long time. ok, i need to wake up and redeem myself at work.
keri
new york, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 13:58:57 (GMT)

Steve, I hope the answer isn't 'cos they couldn't find three wise men & a virgin? That would be terrible :)
Charlie George's Jockstrap
Highbury, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 12:42:07 (GMT)

good win in europe Theo..Derek after I sent that I found something I should have included (a tape of Bert Jansch) only took me a year(:)..being an anal compiler, I'm busy doing a tape of Tim and Jeff Buckley music, I can't separate them. both brilliant, reading a good book at present, about how the politically correct brigade are a bunch of miserable humourless oppressive groups,(not my words)..and it includes 1000 politically incorrect jokes.."why wasn't christ born in australia"....?
steve
stations of the crass - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 11:37:03 (GMT)

Oh yeah, whilst mentioning Croydon, what a cruel b*stard you are Bill. How could you have the 'Burns' standing there on the stage looking so provocative and then not play it ? In my younger days, the less politically correct school mates had names for birds.. err I mean girls like you :) Otherwise, an excellent evening, as always. Cheers,
Theo
London, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 09:45:42 (GMT)

The review sounds good to me, Steve. The author even seems to agree with Billy (Bragg, that is not Elliot) on the diversity of the different cultures now forming a new Britain (England). On the subject of anti-Maggie songs, Billy jokingly said last night, in Croydon, how song writing wasn't as easy now that she's gone. Someone suggested he should write some about Tony Blair then. He responded by asking them whether they'd ever heard of his 'Red to Blue' or 'Goalhanger'.
Theo
London, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 09:37:13 (GMT)

An article I read of Billy Elliot...for decades, British film has found itself split into strict ideological camps..... You had the social-realist, kitchen-sink school, pioneered by directors such as Ken Loach and Mike Leigh. You had the plush English heritage cinema, spearheaded by Merchant-Ivory and then later modified by films such as Notting Hill. Or you had the wannabe Americans: directors like Paul Anderson (Shopping), Danny Cannon (Young Americans) or even Guy Ritchie, whose work was shaped by a culture 3,000 miles across the Atlantic. ..... A few films (think The Full Monty, or Trainspotting) managed to straddle these camps, but by and large the boundaries were rigidly defined........ Billy Elliot, however, is a synthesis, a reconciliation. On the face of it, Daldry's film is pure social-realism: set during the miners' strike of 1984-1985 and focusing on the travails of a North East working-class family. ...... But the fact that its pre-teen title character is an aspiring ballet-dancer lifts it into the sort of follow-your-dreams whimsy that wouldn't be out of place in a Frank Capra movie. Think of this, if you like, as a kind of California ranch-style kitchen-sink. ...... Like it or not, Hollywood has shaped homegrown cinema. Billy Elliot, then, is a basic British story told in an American vernacular. Of course, Luddites may argue that Billy Elliot is therefore not purely British. Except that Britain itself is not purely British any more (at least not in the high Tory sense of the term). Instead it's a land inhabited by continental-style bars and cafes, with a cuisine that's largely Asian, Mediterranean or Japanese and a decor dictated by Ikea-chic. This doesn't make the culture any less "real", only more diverse and different. If Billy Elliot heralds a new strain of melting-pot cinema, it's only reflecting the wider melting-pot in mirroring the life of the North East people
steve
marilyn manson for popr, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 08:35:51 (GMT)

analogy, you see many Rottweilers are friendly and can be very good to many people and cruel to others,infact most people dont mind the dog at all and go about there daily deeds simply not giving a fuck about it, however a few do
steve
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 08:02:19 (GMT)

Michael , you took the words right outta my mouth(:)...although this doesnt apply to jessica......to say Billy Elliot was not political, is laughable, the political viewpoint was in your face the whole way through, the consequences of that enviroment was obvious..in my opinion it was beter than Brassed Off, most of the people were real North Easteners including Billy himself, and the pianist is little billy fane a well known geordie poet, simon you must know him, the boxing coach was Mike Elliot a geordie comedian, PeteC you must have seen Mick Elliot open for lindisfarne all those years ago..I was brought up in that area I know those streets, the way the family behaved is exactly as those people do in those communities, refusing to let him take up ballet once they knew it was for real they backed him 100%.. I have customers in Angus street which is in the film,Ive seen miners smashing internal doorsa for firewood the way Billys dad did with the piano whoever wrote Billy Elliot had an inside view of the people of easington co durham(home of the whisky priests)...the ballet sentiment is the bit which put bums on seats in cinema's(DUH!)AND THEY NEED TO SEEL TICKETS TO MAKE MORE FILMS,...obviously some people missed the point, and that is life goes on during Miner strikes and conflict,especially with children..there were many parallels I identified with in the film, a great film with great acting about great people and life in just a northern industrial town.
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 07:56:57 (GMT)

Thanks for all the anti-Maggie stuff. I really do recommend that you download that Hefner track I mention. It's got a funky bassline and a big, blasting brass section. A definite must for anyone clebrating "The Day That Thatcher Dies"! Spot on about the Costello track; it is superb. "Just like a schoolboy whos head's like a tin can/filled up with dreams then poored down the drain" Marvellous stuff.
Tettland
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 07:00:47 (GMT)

Here I go again, but thanks for mentioning Attila's "Tyler Smiles", Jeff. Truly a marvellous song, and written to commemorate the Poll Tax protests, fwiw. The Tyler in the title is Wat Tyler, leader of the first English Peasants' Revolt. And how about "If Margaret Thatcher can live, why can't I ?", from Robb Johnson's "The Animals Song", a brilliant put-down of factory farming, dressed up as a kiddies' song.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 05:30:06 (GMT)

http://www.abcnews.go.com/onair/2020/2020Friday_001215_stossel_smoking_feature.html
Mayor Alfred Muller <saynotofags@healthnazi.com>
Liberty Heights, Maryland, USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 04:22:29 (GMT)

Brian, you ARE coming to the best(oh, pardon, I mean West) coast, yes? I'll take you for some Mexican food. (I won't even try to compete in the curry department!)
susan
Santa Cruz, California, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 04:22:08 (GMT)

I've been enjoying all the Maggie songs... to bring it all back to Uncle Bill again--- When I saw him once in the 80s he told us that Thatcher was like "Reagan with a blue dress, blue dress, blue dress, Reagan with a blue dress on!" That drove the point home well for the uninformed American teenager I was.
Susan <o.k. I'm still an uninformed American teenager!>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 04:19:08 (GMT)

That's the one I was thinking of, Dean! It's also got the lines "Moi je me changerai en chien si je peux rester sur la Terre / Et comme rŽverbre quotidien /Je māoffrirai Madame Thatcher. ö (I would become a dog if Iām allowed to stay on earth, and for a lamppost Iāll take Mrs Thatcher)
Carsten <takesafrenchmanwantingtopissonher>
- Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 01:26:14 (GMT)

Been listening to some bootleg MP3 (thanx, Luther) Billys version of Rose in Spanish Harlem really is excellent!
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, Ohio, USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 01:08:50 (GMT)

Rather unlike she was to us then!
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 00:55:51 (GMT)

I just downloaded Maggie by The Exploited as mentioned earlier. There's nothing horrible about it at all - it's quite fair to her.
Dean
Surrey, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 00:38:22 (GMT)

There was also a nod to Thatch in Pink Floyd's 'The Final Cut' LP, 'Get Your Filthy Hands Off My Desert'
Jon <Bristol>
UK, - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 00:31:25 (GMT)

Mike, I was in brussels last night with my nine year old son for his first concert and he was very impressed about Billy's performance. power of the union, accident waiting to happen, the price I pay, new england ,greeting to the new brunette ect ect and a lot of new volume II stuff. HAve a nice day.
Rico <wattan@concepts.nl>
Bergen op zoom, netherlands - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 00:09:45 (GMT)

This maybe way too late but someone mentioned "Italian Ijs" in Holland. The same in Germany...I recall a place called "Dolomiti" in Friedberg/Hessen that has some of the best ice cream that I ever had..coming back to the US Good Humor was a let down. What this has to do with Billy Bragg, rock or folk I have no idea.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 00:05:24 (GMT)

Anti-Thatcher songs...how 'bout Attilla the Stockbrokers' Tyler Smiles....sort of a slam at Thatcher and Thatcherism. "Gotcha Lady, Gotcha finally!"
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 23:59:31 (GMT)

The famous foreign language Anti-Thatcher song was "Miss Maggie" by Renaud which amongst other gems contained this line: "Les femmes n'aiment pas la guerre, a part bien sur madame Thatcher" ("Women don't like war. Except for Mrs Thatcher of course")
Dean
Surrey - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 23:21:06 (GMT)

Looking to form a band in the bay area, anyone interested? or know anyone who might be interested?
cookaloris <as_fein@hotmail.com>
Oakland, CA, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 22:30:52 (GMT)

Going to see Billy for the 7th time on Sunday at Nottingham Rock City.. Can anyone tell me his recent tour playlist !!!. Whatever he plays will be great (even The Manics !)
Mike Sig's
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 22:29:45 (GMT)

Robert and AKMA: when billy was on the forum earlier this year he mentioned the probability of a new video coming out sometime in the future - I like the idea of promos and best tv appearances compilation
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 22:15:06 (GMT)

Sl‡n, Craig and thanks. I'm downloading "Maggie" for my collection...
Carsten
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 22:00:13 (GMT)

Keri: you can show me a good NY curry house
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:59:32 (GMT)

just dug out the Blow Monkeys lp to have a look - check out these lyrics "The royals are having a ball/Princess Diana turns on the lights and says/Shakespeare never did this, he never did this/I don't wanna die of natural causes, I wanna go out/Like one of Martin Scorcese" - its funny how you never see Dr Robert and Mystic Meg in the same room ps the lp came out in 1987
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:52:36 (GMT)

who did "How does it feel to be the mother of a thousand dead"
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:45:35 (GMT)

Enjoyed that !I'll come back tomorrow.Bye
Craig
Hull - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:37:41 (GMT)

Ah but the wonder of punk, as long she was getting it , who was arsed whether it was a good or bad song.I remember all the Crass v Exploited stuff, anarchy and love..anarchy and chaos etc.. bit of a shame that really.
Craig
Hull - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:35:45 (GMT)

Ah, but that Crass song is hilarious.
derik
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:32:28 (GMT)

That Exploited song is horrible (as all their songs are).
derik
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:31:54 (GMT)

.. or then there was a song by 'Crass' another punk band( yes i was into punk in my younger days) this one was called 'bird put the turd in the custard, but who put the shit in number ten?' I don't recall it making the charts though!
Craig
Hull - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:30:42 (GMT)

a busy weekend on Napster for me then! :)
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:16:25 (GMT)

The punk band The Exploited sung a song on their 'Horror Epics' album simply called 'Maggie'. The chorus went something like..'Maggie ya c**t, Maggie ya c**t, Maggie, Maggie , Maggie ya f**kin c**t..' Not one of the more well know M.T songs, but for a 17 yr old at the time it was pretty good!
Craig
Hull, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:12:50 (GMT)

once = one
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:11:19 (GMT)

The Blow Monkeys once came from an album called "She Was Only a Grocer's Daughter" with such tracks It Doesn't Have To Be This Way, How Long Can A Bad Thing Last, Man At The End Of His Tether, as well as Celebrate... also one of the b-side from this lp was called The Grantham Grizzler - for some reason I get the feeling they didn't like Maggie
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:07:51 (GMT)

...then i swore that i'd never drink again!!!
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:04:28 (GMT)

Now - for 20 points - who can come up with a non-English-language M.T. song?
Carsten
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:03:52 (GMT)

Spot on, Craig!!!
Carsten
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 21:02:12 (GMT)

Carsten, I think the Christy Moore song which you are refering to is 'Delirium Tremens' from the 'Live at the Point' album/ CD.I think he's refers to been in ..'the jacuzie with that ole' whore from number ten..'
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:57:13 (GMT)

'forgot' even
C
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:56:41 (GMT)

Cheers Brian, didn't know that one yet (and almost forget about Morrissey's...)
Carsten <whenwillyoudiewhenwillyoudie>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:55:51 (GMT)

Margaret on the Guillotine by Morrissey is another cracking Anti-thatch song - but the prize for the funkiest must surely go to (Celebrate) The Day (After You) by The Blow Monkeys and Curtis Mayfield
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:51:23 (GMT)

Starter question for 10 points re anti-thatcher-songs : In which song does Christy Moore make a reference to her?
Carsten <stillcollectingthanksforthetips>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:43:59 (GMT)

I don't know how often Billy reads these, but in light of the soon to be President, I have a request. As we prepare to have the lights go out all over the U.S. we could sure use a new version of "Days Like These". As an aside, I after hearing the song on the radio once, I ran out and bought "Back to Basics" I was instantly hooked! DLT aslo got me to register to vote for the first time in my life, because "wearing badges is not enough . . . ."
Tom Tebalt <tebalt@usa.net>
Dayton, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 20:25:31 (GMT)

I loved Billy Eliot. Don't go in thinking you're going to see an thought provoking depiction of the minors strike, just enjoy the cinematography and the nice story. Some incredible acting, too.
Jessica <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
just another, dumb american - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:52:04 (GMT)

OK, "stand on your grave...", but the sentiment stands.
Pete
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:45:16 (GMT)

Hi Pete, hope you enjoyed Belfast a bit. I totally agree with what you say about 'Tramp the dirt down' - a brilliant song (even if that line you quote isn't in it! :))
Carsten
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:33:59 (GMT)

"Tramp the Dirt Down" by Elvis Costello is probably the most vitriolic anti-Thatcher song that anyone has ever written. "I will spit on your grave and tramp the dirt down". Very harsh words, but I have to say she deserves them.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:22:00 (GMT)

who fred? and did he tip?
barbara
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:13:52 (GMT)

it was oregon fred. http://www.dol.gov/dol/opa/public/aboutdol/laborday.htm
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 19:01:38 (GMT)

One of the greates Anti Thatcher songs appears on Elvis Costellos' album 'Spike', and it's called Tramp The Dirt Down. Classic tune
Jon
Bristol, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 18:31:28 (GMT)

Labor Day,is a legal holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September in the United States, Puerto Rico, the Canal Zone, and the Virgin Islands. The celebration of Labor Day, in honor of the working class, it was first suggested by Peter J. McGuire, founder of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. It was initiated in the U.S. in 1882 by the Knights of Labor, who held a large parade in New York City. In 1884 the group held a parade on the first Monday of September and passed a resolution to hold all future parades on that day and to designate the day as Labor Day. In March 1887, the first state law to declare the day a legal holiday was passed in Colorado, followed by New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. In 1894 the U.S. Congress made the day a legal holiday. Parades, and speeches by labor leaders and political figures, mark Labor Day celebrations. Labor Day is celebrated in Canada on the first Monday in September. The first parades and rallies to honor workers were held in 1872 in Ottawa and Toronto, and the September date was officially recognized by Parliament in 1894.
Fred 'Pedant' Housego
London, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 18:26:54 (GMT)

colorado was second... with march 15, 1887. it's time for pizza
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 18:16:33 (GMT)

who organized the first labor day parade?
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 18:14:20 (GMT)

it was oregon which acted on feb. 21 1887.
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 18:10:52 (GMT)

However, the first Labor Day parade was held in New York City.
Fred Housego <NeverGuessWhoIHad@InMyCabTheOther.Day>
London, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 17:51:31 (GMT)

Colorado (easy peasey...and I'm half-english)
Fred Housego
London, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 17:46:11 (GMT)

Keri: I don't know. I give up.
John Denver <sunshineonmyshoulders@rockymountainhigh.colorado>
Vail, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 17:44:26 (GMT)

Euphoria?
derik
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 17:42:06 (GMT)

trivia time... first state to legislate labor day as a holiday here in the states?
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 17:31:21 (GMT)

http://www.sci.tamucc.edu/~pmichaud/toast/
keri <this is great!!!>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 15:57:06 (GMT)

I'm going to see Billy in Croydon tonight - can't wait, he (and the blokes) were on top form at the Barbican the other week. I heard a lot of people complaining afterwards that they played some of the tunes in a new way but I like it - Bill's got some killer moves these days too ;-) Anyone else going tonight?
stuart <dftf@nirvanet.net>
london, england - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 15:53:33 (GMT)

siobhan, you have a cool son...parklife such a classic. yes, tettland, i am the one that likes the magnetic fields. brian, you must swing by and say hello when you get here. you're in london right?
keri
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 15:49:08 (GMT)

Carol - Let's be fair. Americans are not necessarily prohibited from reviewing films like Billy Eliot. Steve just does not expect "silly f***ing American arseholes to understand it" (08:10:15). I am still trying to figure out the film, Children of the Revolution.
Michael
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 15:19:51 (GMT)

on the subject of promo videos. Don't you all think it's about time that they were released on video or DVD? Throw in some classic footage from 'whistle test' and the Letterman appearances, and you've got a winner! Add this to my want list along side an official Riff Raff compilation.
robert
USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 15:03:01 (GMT)

Would someone at the Bragg Office please consider uploading QuickTime versions of BB's videos (the singles, not Man in the Sand or the West Virginia-Moscow)? I've never seen a BB video & would relish the chance to see even a 3 x 4 inch version....
AKMA
Evanston, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 14:58:15 (GMT)

Paul: Brassed Off was an exellent film with a real political analysis of the miners situation. I loved Ewan MacGregor in it. Billy Elliot has no politics--the miners strike is just there to give the movie conflict. It made me mad. Furthermore, it is just a typical ballet movie. I know quite a bit about children and ballet--my older daughter was given scholarships to ballet schools for years--because she has perfect turn-out. It was her body, pure and simple. If I knew then what I do now, I would not have allowed her to study it for most of her childhood. But then, what do I know? I'm just an American. I'm not allowed to have any judgment on movies or knowledge on the subject.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 14:35:55 (GMT)

Sonja--good luck on the interview. You could move here and get a job where I work. Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to find a place to live But we have a good union and we just negotiated a good contract. This was a victory that the workers did collectively. Our union is run by the workers themselves--our negotiators are coworkers who are elected by us. And San Francisco just elected a very left wing Board of Supervisors. So come to our little utopia by the bay. (Well, it would be if real estate weren't so expensive).
Carol
San Francisco, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 14:29:13 (GMT)

Geoff: 'Particle Man' was correct on the TMBG paraphrasing... Current favorite listens: Wilco's second album (whatever the hell it's called), Dylan's 'Blood on the Tracks' and 'The Basement Tapes', Will Oldham's "Little Boy Blue" 7", and Ida 'The Mighty Ida'... Last night I heard a CD of Marilyn Monroe. I never knew she had such an amazing singing voice!
derik
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 14:23:21 (GMT)

Paul, if you liked 'Brassed-Off' & 'Kes', go and see it. It would not have been made without them, you can't fail to see the similarities. Pete W, 'cheap sponge cakes'....Ummmmmm !
Barry 'Homer' Norman
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 14:21:16 (GMT)

There was another song called 'Thatcher's Dead' by Don Valley and the Rotherides (I think). Fantastic country music from Sheffield. What's the score with Billy Eliot?, I saw a review of it on the TV this morning and it looks absolutely dreadful. Anyone seen it? I'm back in England next week, and was planning to see it, based on stuff I'd read in the paper, but the clips I swa this morning really put me off.
Paul W
Bratislava, - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 13:58:16 (GMT)

According to my knowledgable oplitics tutor, Thatcher's lab team made significant advances in the development of that squirty cream you get between the two halves of cheap sponge cakes....just thought i'd clear that up :)
pete w <hello,btw>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 13:57:16 (GMT)

Everyone needs to go to this site, it's very very funny. That is unless you're trying to ignore the American election completely. No, go anyways. http://www.michaelmoore.com/2000_12_15.html
Kat
Canada - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 12:33:53 (GMT)

Amanda: welcome. Not sure what your son means by it, but I second it : "Billy Bragg for the city! Billy Bragg for the neighborhood!"
Tettland
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 10:22:24 (GMT)

Seeing as were recommending albums and talking about Thatcher, the current Hefner album has rather good vitriolic song called The Day That Thatcher Dies. It's not exactly up to Billy's analysis but it definitely gets the adrenalin pumping with lines like "We will LAUGH/the day that Thatcher dies" and children singing "Ding dong, the witch is dead". Keri: was it you who like the Magnetic Fields' "69 Love Songs" (my favourite album of the year)? The same guy has offshoot project called The 6ths which features the vocal talents of Neil Hanon, Bob Mould, Claire Grogan, Gary "gazza" Numan (!) and others. It's very good and you should check it out. Sonja: how did the interview go? Did they call you a "lady"? :)
Tettland
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 10:19:35 (GMT)

That should be "rival van"
D
(N) B, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 08:52:24 (GMT)

I once witnessed part of an ice cream war between two van rival franchises at my school gates. Very nasty it was too baseball bats and blades! All that trouble just to preserve the "Status Quo" - See it's not just politics I can be boring about!
Dickie <champersshould beserved@45f>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 08:51:10 (GMT)

more ice cream ... Jet Black of the Stranglers (the oldest man in rock?) used to operate a fleet of ice cream vans. The stranglers even used to tour in one of them. Nice and Sleazy cone anyone?
geoff
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 02:14:52 (GMT)

Yes, Geoff, you are partially correct. Derik was paraphrasing me.
Particle Man
Brooklyn, NY, USA - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 01:28:05 (GMT)

...also... the Mr Rossi ice cream vans you see around London are owned by Francis Rossi's uncle
Brian
London, UK - Friday, December 15, 2000 at 01:03:14 (GMT)

Bob: glad to see I was wrong. I'm lining up for the '2001: A Candle Odyssey' show on Feb 10. Go red with jealousy!
geoff <geoffwilson@uq.net.au>
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 01:02:08 (GMT)

Derik: was that a 'They Might Be Giants' lyric you were quoting. It sounded like one.
geoff
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 00:59:50 (GMT)

I always prefered MM to NME. I don't think thats very cool is it? The tapes my kids demand in the car are Squeeze, Blondie, Elvis Costello and Oasis. Thats only because I won't let them have S Club 7 and the Backstreet Boys if I'm driving. They actually groan if I play any BB and the first song my son sang was Parklife (other than The Wheels on the Bus). I use a Mr Whippy machine when I make the pudding at work and very convenient it is too. I shall think of Mrs T. fondly the next time I do it.
siobhan
- Friday, December 15, 2000 at 00:26:24 (GMT)

so NME and Melody Maker are gonna merge - this is of no surprise as both titles have been losing readers for a few years now - and IPC have been keeping staff (of these publications) on short term contracts - a lot of the NME old-guard were laid off a couple of months ago
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 22:46:42 (GMT)

Keri - I am actually thinking about coming over stateside sometime next year - i have a cousin in Babylon who I can stay with so nice and cheap
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 22:43:06 (GMT)

so what do you say brian?
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 22:35:08 (GMT)

Sonj, Good luck with the interview tomorrow. Mrs Jon is better now and looking forward to xmas partying. I'll get to to neck a couple of cold ones for you.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 22:32:46 (GMT)

Re: Thatcher and Ice Cream: I was told once that when Maggie was student it was her lab-team that invented that squirty ice-cream that you get in ice-cream vans - just tried to check this on the net - not a mention - I now reckon its a load of cobblers
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 22:27:45 (GMT)

It wasn't so much that Thatcher ruined ice cream but when she was in a lot of kids simply couldn't afford it. Where I grew up in the North East broken wafers from the ice cream man were the order of the day. But yes, a look from her would make milk go off. Can you still get monkey's blood today or what?
Doctor Jimmy
UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 21:53:12 (GMT)

O.k. can't put off studying any more---but before i go, does anyone remember if they mentioned Weezer when I was asking for wanking songs? 2 references on one album! In Why Bother: "i know i should get next to you, you've got a look that made me think you're cool, but it's just sexual attraction,it's nothing real, so i'd better keep whackin, why bother, it's gonna hurt me, it's gonna kill when you desert me" AND in Pink Triangle: "but when i start to feel that pull, sometimes i like to pull myself, she would never go with me, we're not all that's good on earth, i'm dumb she's a lesbian, i thought i had found the one, we were good as married in my mind, but married in my mind's no good, pink triangle on her sleeve, let me know the truth"
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:51:34 (GMT)

very cute story! my nephew is always intrigued by the blocky/black and white illustrations on BB cd covers and i've gotten him into "hoodo voodo" but he is still more of a Beatles fan. His little brother likes Serge Gainsbourg "Mambo yum-yum!"
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:44:10 (GMT)

keri, yikes! What happened? have you gotten over the trauma enough to talk about it? ;) I kept getting lost in that crazy city ("oh it's right by that cafe near that canal...")
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:42:02 (GMT)

susan i had a near fatal accident 5 years ago this dec. 21st in good old amsterdam. i'd take canals over the east river any day.
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:39:33 (GMT)

Since things are quiet and people have been posting about random topics, it seems a good time for a Bragg-themed cute kid story (consider yourself warned)-- a couple weeks ago, I was in the car with my not-quite-three-year-old son, and I popped in my Talking With The Taxman tape. He has just started to recognize the name Billy Bragg (also knows the names Bob Marley and the Beatles) but doesn't recognize the music, so he asked what it was. When I said "Billy Bragg," he began to cheer "Billy Bragg for the city! Billy Bragg for the neighborhood!" over and over. I have no idea where he came up with that or why, but I found it gratifying.
Amanda K
Seattle, USA - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:37:16 (GMT)

speaking of Holland, there was some damn good ice-cream there. Italian Ijs, it was called. MMMM, the hazlenut flavor was exquisite and I ate it every day I was there (I was on the beer and ice-cream weight gain diet!)
Susan <oh, and i'm eating smoked Gouda right now!>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:36:19 (GMT)

oh no, not another my bridge is better than your bridge scenario... bridges of the world... unite!
nevski
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:31:17 (GMT)

Brian, What did Thatcher do to make the ice-cream so bad? The only bridges worth noting around here are the ones in the Weezer songs I'm playing! (Though there's a nice walking bridge over the creek on the way to my nephew's school!) I liked old fashioned bridges in Amsterdam with the trippy gate thing blocking it when it goes up to let a boat through. Like a Van Gogh painting in real life!
Susan <how's work going, Brian?>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:30:56 (GMT)

brian, none of those bridges could stand up to our posse of the williamsburg, manhattan, bklyn, and verrazano bridges. sounds like you need a trip to new york mate.
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:25:25 (GMT)

Susan - you can blame Thatcher for that awful ice-cream!
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:14:38 (GMT)

Only ever seen the Brooklyn Bridge on the closing credits of Taxi (and thats at night and on a loop) - anyway it wouldn't win in a fight with Tower Bridge cos London Bridge, Southwark Bridge, Blackfriars Bridge, and Waterloo would all join in (our bridges stick together when it comes to a rumble)
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:09:48 (GMT)

I liked tower bridge, but the ice-cream they sold there was so...creamy. ick.
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:07:02 (GMT)

Can I just say how much I've been digging Weezer lately? I'm a late bloomer sometimes, but they and Dan Bern are a life line for this stressed out grad student. Thinkin' about going to see Bernstein again in Palo Alto on Saturday... (luther, you've created a madwoman!)
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:06:13 (GMT)

I've always liked the capitalism as ponzi scheme analogy myself. (everyone gets pressured to join and everything gets used up eventually)
Susan
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 20:04:01 (GMT)

brian... ever been on the brooklyn bridge? it kicks the shit out of tower bridge. we have decent curry here... but i do agree nothing like brick lane...there are nice bagels around there too.
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:49:28 (GMT)

The billboard at the train station for Tom Hanks' new movie Castaway (Robinson Crusoe?) is (over his name and head) scrawled with the words 'Sell Out.' Who knew?
derik
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:46:35 (GMT)

...doing the things an analogy can. What's he like? It's not important. Analogy man.
derik
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:44:15 (GMT)

Capitalism is rather like a vicious Rottweiler. It wanders around the neighborhood, ripping up gardens, shitting/pissing on everything, and attacking passersby. Despite the fact that only the dog's masters are safe from its attacks, most people seem to have been duped into believing that it should be allowed to roam free. Some people do recognize that the Rottweiler is a problem, but their solution is merely to file down the Rottweiler's teeth so that it doesn't tear people quite as badly when it attacks. Others advocate trying to fence the dog in or leash it up. Some of us, however, believe that the fucking Rottweiler should be shot in the head and replaced with a gentle, obedient Border Collie. Or maybe we don't need a dog at all. Where do you stand? Where does Billy Bragg stand?
Analogy Man
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:41:56 (GMT)

I understand now! also we may not have fantastic pizzas (some good ones) but we have the some of best curries in the world (much nicer than pizzas)... and we have Tower Bridge
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:35:19 (GMT)

brian, it was a tongue and cheek joke from a month ago... a "pen pal" of mine in wood green agreed to marriage if a certain someone was elected president. but after confiring with my advisors... she thought i should be more rational about things and reminded me there is NO brooklyn bridge or decent pizza in london. so i think i'll stay here and fight the good fight. but i am allowed to daydream aren't i?
keri <woodgreennottoofarfromcamden.>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:32:05 (GMT)

did I imagine it? I am sure Keri posted on here that she was going to Wood Green to get married - scrolled down and now can't find it - who moved this room from round me?
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:27:40 (GMT)

brian... in response to your post, keri: you marrying a Londoner? Brian London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 11:03:46 (GMT) i'm thinking about it... but i don't think erin will let me.
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:19:44 (GMT)

derik, it's date/month/year. i've just met my first tibetian monk... what a morning.
keri
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 19:14:00 (GMT)

If it were as easy as clicking here, I'd do it. Real life (as I'm sure you know) is not so simple. No, we haven't met, but when Bob and I make it to England, I'll buy you a beer!
Barbara
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 17:38:51 (GMT)

Barbara: (Dickie, I'm sure you've seen Roger and Me - ) I thought you meant we'd met.
Dickie just a bleed'n' thickie <tosubscribetosocialismclickhere__>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 17:22:19 (GMT)

Dickie, I don't understand the question "where would that have been then". Keri, I'm pushing the snow east as hard as I can but it's very heavy.
Barbara <whydoihavetosubscribetoapoliticalbeliefbecauseyousayso?yourworldissosmall>
politicshavefailedideologyhavefailed, thelawhasfailedwhatisleft? - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 16:58:35 (GMT)

Lu'on fans are always so touchy. I guess as London over-spill it must be hard to see Watford doing so well. Up the Cobblers!!!
Dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 16:10:00 (GMT)

lets stop putting Luton down. First the false dawn of Ricky Hill's return, then the closure of Vauxhall, now Lutonspeak is being attacked on a braggy web-site. Give us break. Still confident of QPR at home in Round 3 though.
Andy Jam <Andrew@Jamieson65.freeserve.co.uk>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:37:32 (GMT)

Thanks. I didn't realise Western Electric were Sid Griffin - he's often connected with Gram Parsons, I think he's a bit of an expert, so it'll be loose and twangy. Pub beckons, then. That's no insult, it's just too close to christmas for country.
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:26:46 (GMT)

Steve: I just got some mail from you yesterday. Thank you, the Nick Drake story looks interesting. How long ago did you send that? it was postmarked 6.12.00. and I'm not sure whether that is June or December?
derik
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:23:34 (GMT)

For more about Western Electric visit http://interchem.chem.strath.ac.uk/pd/WElectric.html A couple of the reviews there are spot on in terms of criticisms - "sonic layering loses the song's focus and fire"(para). They are clearly trying to do something a bit different - some might appreciate it. ps the lead singer with dodgy dress sense was in the Coal Porters and therefore has a longstanding link with BB.
Dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:08:40 (GMT)

Geoff, I like to think that I have great taste in music *and* that I'm a sarcastic smartarse. I'm serious about Candle Records, though. Excellent, excellent stuff! And I know his name's Chris, but he always signs the promo e-mails "the guy from candle records." I wish I could be in Melbourne for the Lucksmith's New Year's Eve show. I can't decide if it would be worth the AU$11.00, though. That's about six bucks American. If that's not the entertainment bargain of the Millennium then I don't know what is. I'll go if I can get Jennifer Jason Leigh to accompany me. I'll pick up the tickets because that's the kind of date I am. She can pick up the airfare. P.S. I'm not the Bob who doesn't like Kate Rusby. I've heard the name but never heard her stuff. And I'm not sure about Sid Griffin and Western Electic, although he wasn't too bad when I saw the Long Ryders open a couple of Alarm shows in Boston in the mid-eighties. HI, STEVE.
Bob
USA - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:05:44 (GMT)

IMHO Western Electric are not worth wastig drinking time for. Their music is ploddy and derivitive. I could say a lot more about them, and I guess it depends upon your age. Those a decade or so older than me, who have the odd Yes album in their collection might be able to give them the benefit of the doubt. Sadly they just bored me and a large number of other people around me.
Dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 14:02:49 (GMT)

So - attaching a practical application to the support bands shit-or-good debate - are Western Electric worth losing an hour of Croydon pub drinking time for?
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 13:35:41 (GMT)

barbara, STOP HOGGING ALL THE SNOW... YOU SENT US FREEZING RAIN AND IT'S NOT GOING TO BE A PRETTY WALK THIS MORNING. so last night was rather grim... and tony offered up it's been a "long and agonizing wait." try living here for the next 4 years, Mr. Blair. so london or saskatoon? decisions, decisions. off to be a good samaritan.
keri
rainy bklyn, - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 13:19:59 (GMT)

m****y h*****s as friends. Got to watch that guilt by association thing!
Mick
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 13:19:52 (GMT)

Oi, Mick mate, you're being watched, man. All my friends are Hartlepool fans ...
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 13:04:38 (GMT)

Steve: Several moments of blind panic later·I've moved a few times since it was last worn and have lost far more important things along the way than a sad reminder of girlfriends past and a dirty weekend in Sunderland· I realise I won't need to dig around the attic for it this season. You can raffle MY sun, sea & socialism T-shirt amongst your colleagues and friends and donate the proceeds to the socialist campaign of your choice :)
Dickie <hopelesslyoptimistic@spurschances>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 12:33:15 (GMT)

Sorry, I spelt your name wrong. At least you always spell Karl correctly!
Sue <sue_westcott@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 12:24:05 (GMT)

Good luck with the job interview Sonja. Will the photos include those from the Barbican?
Sue <sue_westcott@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 12:22:49 (GMT)

erin, i hope you enjoy copenhagen as much as we did. Billy was the icing on the cake. make sure you meet up with Tettland, if i can get the technology right we should be able to put pictures out soon. Is keri getting married in london, or even essex? I think i have missed something (not surprising as i am living in a cyber deprived area. Job interview tomorrow. Hope i wont be joining siobhan's partner down the dole office. The place i may be going to work in refers to the female workers as 'ladies'. I think i prefer the inflection used by the DSS 'advisor'! That's all for now.
sonj <@ cwtv (i think:(>
watch out for marauding telephonists in chechester on saturday! - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 12:04:18 (GMT)

Mick, I used to enjoy my visits to "Fortress Feathams", and particularly enjoyed my visit there last April!. Good luck vs Luton, the only town in the country with a 24 letter alphabet (they never use h or t).
Dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 11:37:13 (GMT)

(Steve wrote)".not many people here have been down a coalmine or worked at a shipbuilding forge to even make this judgement..." How many Max Boyce fans? I lived in a single industry town for a bit, (Elliot Lake,Ontario) and saw the end of 95% of the primary jobs there (Uranium mines). It's not something I would wish on anyone (loosing ones job), but sometimes good can come of it.
James Powell <wx732@freenet.victoria.bc.ca>
St John's, Canada - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 11:30:40 (GMT)

ANYONE GOING TO THE GIG ON SUNDAY IN NOTTINGHAM AND WANT TO MEET FOR PRE -MATCH DRINKS PLEASE E-MAIL ME
RUSS RATTAN <RUSSELL@rattan62.freeserve.co.uk>
nOTTINGHAM, England - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 11:27:03 (GMT)

keri: you marrying a Londoner?
Brian
London, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 11:03:46 (GMT)

Dyl, couldn't agree more, especially when Darlington dump them out of the cup next week.
Mick
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 10:47:20 (GMT)

not many coalmines in brisbane though
steve <sun sea and sex>
opps, was that politically incorrect, oh fuck it then - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 10:13:59 (GMT)

Your On Dickie and if Sunderland finish below spurs I will send you a new Sun Sea and Socialism t shirt...although last year I had a $50 bet oon with my mate Julian from acton..(a spurs fan, sadly) and I won and ONLY just received a $50 travellers cheque, so your T shirt sounds a good bet...(:0)....I have a new t-shirt, with 'Northern Industrial Town' on it
Steve <from the blue flash of welders torches in sunderlands >
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 10:12:21 (GMT)

Re: Opening acts . I thought Sid Griffin & Western Electric were excellent , and I don't think I've ever been bored so much by anyone as when I saw Kate Rusby. If we were all the same ........
Bob
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 10:09:52 (GMT)

Luton Town FC are offering free football tickets to Vauxhall workers over Christmas to show solidarity. Talk about handing a gun to a suicidal man!
Dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 10:06:06 (GMT)

Steve - Of course it's a disgrace that people were and still are working in conditions that lead to permanent disability. The only reason this is not happening to the same extent in the UK today is because the bosses weren't making enough profit out of it. If health were the main concern they wouldn't have moved production to countries where conditions are far worse. Improvements have been made but the bosses have never handed these down on a silver platter - they have been fought long and hard for. The new service industries are hardly conducive to good health. Long hours for shit money and people having to work two jobs, which was unheard of here a few years ago, just to provide essentials - food, heating & shelter. When you meet the shop steward who is defending the first person you have to sack ask yourself whose doing more for your co-workers. The T-shirt is yours if Sunderland finish above Spurs :)
Dickie
(Not) Billericay, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 09:57:22 (GMT)

Barbara - Re: Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:09:30 (GMT). Where would that have been then?
Dickie
(Not) Billericay, UK - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 09:55:34 (GMT)

BB's openers: I have seen 2 decent opening acts - Kate Rusby @ Cambridge, and Amsterdam @ Manchester. However I have seen him several times at Sheffield and all of the support acts were terrible (so bad I don't remember names), and on this tour the support act at Bristol was painful (had a lead singer who looked like Harry Dean Stanton). So perhaps it is the variable quality that is the issue. I would rather have no support act and a longer BB solo spot in the gig, becasue all too often his support acts drive me to the bar overpriced drinks.
dyl
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 09:36:06 (GMT)

My point exactly.
geoff
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 09:06:14 (GMT)

No, Geoff, it doesn't piss me off at all. It allows me an opportunity to drive my point home.
Luther Gaylord
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 08:55:50 (GMT)

Bob: either you have exceptional taste in music, or you are just a sarcastic smartarse. I don't care either way. If you are interested, the guy from Candle is called Chris.
geoff
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 08:50:38 (GMT)

Hey Luther, doesn't it piss you off when people on here don't answer your questions? I know exactly how you feel - see my posts on Sunday, November 26, 2000 at 03:17:06 (GMT) and Saturday, November 25, 2000 at 05:33:41 (GMT). Of course, you'll have to hit [Previous Messages] on the above menu in order to find them.
geoff
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 08:46:07 (GMT)

If you have such a dim view of capitalism, Barbara, why aren't you a socialist?
Luther Gaylord
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 07:12:32 (GMT)

Geez Michael, Smashing Pumpkins, Crash Test, Barry and Billy? You must have nearly overdosed!
Barbara <yowza>
getadrinknow, toastmytoesbythefire - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 07:06:38 (GMT)

*********it's*********snowing very har******d it took me ****** one hour to drive home*****************************************************************************************thank god for soul radio I could *******sing with Gladys Knight**********while trying to peel my********fingers from the steering*******wheel.
Barbara <didisayitwaspretty?imusthavebeensmokingcrack>
whatdidmyremarksaboutvauxhaullhavetodowithsocialism, - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 07:04:42 (GMT)

Erin: Re COPENHAGEN: first, Sonja and Alberr and now you. Good to see my adopted city's so popular at the BBgb. 'fraid you missed a superb Billy solo gig by a few months. Look me up when you're here if you feel like it. Sonja: you out there?
Tettland <tettland@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 05:43:16 (GMT)

Jessica: I agree with your sentiment that democracy has died in America, in part, by the ruling of the US Supreme Court. However, I donāt think that Gore would have saved it.
Michael <don'tblameme@ivotedfornader>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 03:23:36 (GMT)

Democracy just died in the US. Al Gore conceded. This means the LOSER of the election will be enaugerated President because of a SUPREME COURT DECISION. We will then have a Republican white house, senate, congress, and supreme court. God save us. Yes, Keri. Let's meet up before the New Year's Eve gig. I'll send you an email.
Jessica Jolly <ashamedtobeanamerican@expatriot.com>
I'd really, rather not say - Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 03:12:45 (GMT)

I saw Billy at The Channel in Boston in '91. I had seen him the prior night without any opening bands (but with Barry Cimmins) and showed up late for the Channel show, missing the opening acts. I think the Smashing Pumpkins and Crash Test Dummies were the opening acts before Crimmins. Does anyone recall these bands opening for Billy? If so, did they wake up your neighborhood?
Michael
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 03:02:49 (GMT)

Vikki, It's OK if you check my website, too. Pick up my latest album, Nakedself, at an independent record store near you. Viiiiii-kiiiii, give my greetings to Johnny Marr!
Matt Johnson <thethe@whadyastutter.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 01:52:06 (GMT)

Pardon me...I have one too many the's. I was too busy laughing to proofread.
Vikki
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 01:16:16 (GMT)

It's been awhile since I've checked in the the bbgb, and lo and behold, I see that Luther's back. I THOUGHT my question was going to be: 'Is Luther a glutton for punishment? Why does he keep coming back here to bicker?' BUT, I see the BIG question is his sexual preference! What a scream. This site is better than a Soap Opera.
Vikki <lol@betterthanasoapopera.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 01:14:27 (GMT)

as a by-the-by, 22 years ago my partner (ex SWP too) was offered a job and a house at Vauxhalls in Luton, (they needed factory workers from London), he turned it down but ironically is unemployed now anyway. We got seriously told off at the dole office yesterday, I don't think we were taking it seriously enough for the woman who worked there who kept calling me 'lady' as in 'I'm glad you think your situation is funny, lady' like some american tv show. Keri, I live very near to Wood Green so would expect an invite to your nuptials.
siobhan <I must not laugh @ the DSS>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 01:07:01 (GMT)

hiya Bob ,,,good to see you back
steve
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 00:07:17 (GMT)

I left the grammer mistakes in to feed the anal's ...lol
steve
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 00:06:03 (GMT)

good point dickie, however you dont really think that this is going to happen over a few weeks/months do you, telling me Im deluding myself because of a closure is shortsighted maybe....look back 100 years, or 50 and see improvements,regardless of who instigated the improvements they do happen slowly, the macro view could be this, 16000 men lost their jobs over 5 years in sunderland, hardly a mention around the country, after years of heavy engineering/coalmining and shipbuilding 26% of sunderland men over 45 are on permanent sick due to industrial diseases, maybe in the long run thesze closures is an improvement to the quality of peoples lives(just a thought)...not many people here have been down a coalmine or worked at a shipbuilding forge to even make this judgement....and if people are real socialists as they blabber about on here, then read Luthers post below and try to answer it...here it is again to remind us and a very good question for all:.....If that's how you feel, Barbara, (your post at 20:09:30) then why aren't you a socialist? Luther Gaylord.. - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:19:35 (GMT)...hope you dont mind me copying your post here Luther....I could do with that t-shirt Dickie..(:)..I remember nights above blondies wine bar in sunderland with the SWP, never have I seen a more negative aggressive blinkered bunch of psuedo intellectual losers in my life, and of course I let them know this...dickie how are we going to get this change then, I can tell you I have acheived more for my co-workers as a manager than I ever could as a non manager, and Im still doing it, although I believe the utopians cant see how this is possible..have fun
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com>
- Thursday, December 14, 2000 at 00:04:59 (GMT)

One more time, that's: http://www.candlerecords.com.au/
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 23:55:58 (GMT)

Kickerlib: Go to http://www.candlerecords.com.au/ and order everything by Darren Hanlon, The Simpletons, and while you're at it, pick up all the Lucksmiths' stuff, too. Geoff, that guy from Candle Records should pay us a promotional fee or something.
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 23:54:32 (GMT)

Kickerlib: to clarify someone's earlier post, Darren Hanlon opened for Uncle Bill in Toronto, as well as the recent dates in Ireland. Scroll down to find website address.
geoff
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 23:41:14 (GMT)

funny? moi? hehehehe
nevski
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:57:51 (GMT)

hey erin, what time is the intervention?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:44:31 (GMT)

hi jessica, i'm in... i went on monday. are we going to meet up before hand?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:43:03 (GMT)

The dan bern gig cost 16.75 i found that to be a reasonable price. (not a deal, though) I WISH I could spend only $50 to see Braggy on new years--but add in the airline tix and it gets outta hand. I'll have to live vicariously thru y'all. I wanna hear all about it and have a good cry about missing it!
Susan
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:35:56 (GMT)

Nevski, you're not funny, either!
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:35:42 (GMT)

I'm spending Y2K.1 with Billy! Just got my ticket at the Bottom Line. You in, Keri?
Jessica <jessicajolly@lycos.com>
NYC, fucking Bush country - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:32:46 (GMT)

Thanks Luther, for the mp3 link. I'll be taking a crash anti-luddite course after school's out to get the most out of my computer! I've got "I am the Messiah, I am the Messiah, I am the Messiah" stuck in my head (not the worst affirmation I can think of!) Gotta get me a Dan Bern cd so's I can learn some new words!
Susan
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:19:50 (GMT)

luther , hows the sale of your Billy bragg collection going?
nevski
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 22:14:13 (GMT)

i haven't read it yet erin, but i will after zorba the greek. did you ever go to conway to look at the bricks?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 21:42:58 (GMT)

i'll have a look round for something appropriate. yes, we've got to make our reservations soon, because this is frightening...frightening. what a laughingstock this nation is. has anyone out there on the page read 'the lexus and the olive tree' by thomas l. friedman? i'd like to know what you true-blue socialists have to say about these theories.
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 21:30:53 (GMT)

Thanks, Dickie, for getting us back into a bit of political perspective here. The ćMDä from Vauxhall was interviewed on BBC TV this morning, ćregrettingä the loss of jobs, seeing it as ćan economic necessityä and at the same time posing in front of his new top-of-the-range car. Capitalist lying hypocritical fucking bastard. Itās stuff like this that make me get angrier as I get older. The Vauxhall shutdown is an absolute outrage
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 21:29:06 (GMT)

erin, i'll take a tacky 8X10 picture frame... for my menswe@r photo. things aren't looking to bright here. i need your proof reading skills.. it's time for another letter. time is a wasting.
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:44:44 (GMT)

just got back. i'm telling you, it's drive time. i'm on a 'the sea and cake' kick, so they'll keep me company to bellingham later...heard 'em? good stuff.
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:41:28 (GMT)

i wish it would snow here.. and stop wasting it on st. louis. erin, i thought you were on the road?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:37:44 (GMT)

so, keri, scandinavian luxuries...and i mean real scandinavian, not lake wobegon scandinavian (what a fun word to type)...what'll it be? i'm preparing for a big adventure. just a precursor to copenhagen.
erin
seattle, tacoma this morning, bellingham this afternoon - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:34:01 (GMT)

Hi Keri, just trying to drive in it. I hear we're getting another 6" tonight. *Sigh* I will admit that it's romantic, but not when I'm driving/swearing.
Barbara
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:26:02 (GMT)

hi barbara... still digging out from the snow?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:23:31 (GMT)

If that's how you feel, Barbara, (your post at 20:09:30) then why aren't you a socialist?
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:19:35 (GMT)

Disclaimer, I'm not a huge Michael Moore fan but that film is a good example of the greed and ruthlessness of General Motors and corporate Amerika.
Barbara <offtomyownevilcorporation@downtowndetroit>
No Scab Papers, USA Today, No Way! - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:11:21 (GMT)

Dickie, I'm sure you've seen Roger and Me - the story of what General Motors did to the city of Flint Michigan. They are changing the face of downtown Detroit even as I sit and type - buying up entire neighborhoods to create a big buffer zone around its new headquarters and getting the state to give them their very own freeway extension. My heart and solidarity goes to the workers at the Vauxhall plant. May those bastards at GM burn in a very very hot hell. Many of you have stock in General Motors through your pensions etc. If you do, you have the right and the responsibility to make the company know how you feel about the plant closing. Because the public line is the responsibility the company has to its shareholders to make a good return on their investment.
Barbara <wevegottotakeitbackinthestreetsandintheboardrooms>
Anditcouldhappentomeortoyouinaninstant, Thisiscapitalism - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:09:30 (GMT)

Back to more pleasant things...Billy Bragg openers are shite? I think someone here posted that BB toured the US in 1988 with the "Weddos" & Michelle Schocked....I would call this a great package deal..not sure what happened to Michelle but at that time she was hardly shite...her version of Jeane Ritchys "The L&N Dont Stop Here Anymore" is an excellent interpretation... & of course I've been converted to a postmortem Weddos fan...*****the BB opener I saw was The Disposable Heros of Hiphopracy...they nearly upstaged Billy...I recall telling my SO "who the hell are THOSE guys?!"
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:06:50 (GMT)

Well said, Dickie. - On another note, Clinton was in Belfast today and I'm no particular fan of the man but still, you have to hand it to him, his commitment to Ireland is second to none! Some interesting thoughts in his speech today as well. What do you make of it, Stewart?
Carsten
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:06:31 (GMT)

whoops...those 13,700 job cuts include the Vauxhall shutdown...BTW (this is for the Americans here) the Chevette of the 1970s was based on a Vauxhall model.****
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 20:01:36 (GMT)

Been lurking a bit...that Vauxhall shutdown made me think of the BB tune, From a Vauxhall Velox,...had no idea what he was talking about until I got more familiar with British car makes. BTW, did you know GM has ended production of the Oldsmobile marque...the oldest marque in the US in continuous production, and the second oldest (after Benz) in the world. 13,700 job cuts across the US due to this. The Rocket 88 with its V8 engine was probably the most famous 'Olds'model (and gave the name to a few rocakbilly bands as well).
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 19:58:15 (GMT)

Bill may be charging $50 for tickets to his shows, but at least he's not a primadonna. Take a look at the riders for these so-called musicians: http://www.thesmokinggun.com/backstage/backstage.html What will they require next? That their dressing rooms be filled with sweet-smelling rose petals prior to every performance?
The Smoking Gun
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 19:57:48 (GMT)

Barenaked Ladies opened for Billy at the Hackney Empire December '90 or '91 (before the release of their first album 'Gordon').
You Can Be My Yoko Ono
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 19:35:08 (GMT)

Luther, I'll take your word for it that you don't think I'm funny. But, not being funny does not equal homophobia. At least not the last time I checked. So take your pretentious political correctness and climb back up your own arse. Thank you, you've been a wonderful crowd, really, take my wife, please, drive safely . . .
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 19:03:01 (GMT)

I have a great sense of humor, Bob. The problem is that you're not funny. At all.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 18:54:49 (GMT)

I was going to use this post to talk about the closure of the Vauxhall plant in Luton and the fact that one company can effectively rip the heart from a whole town but that will be well enough documented elsewhere. I was with a friend this afternoon when he received the details of the redundancy package that is on offer. As he was coming to terms with the small amount of money General Motors thought his job was worth the radio announced that Luton Town FC were offering free tickets to all Vauxhall employees for the two home matches over Christmas. His girlfriend shouted through from the kitchen, "Don't they think we're going to suffer enough?" Anyone who thinks that capitalism is going to evolve into a friendlier force is deluding themselves
Dickie
(Not) Billericay, UK - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 18:33:30 (GMT)

I saw Barry Crimmins open for Billy. Um, no comment. As for Barenaked Ladies "opening" for him, if Brian Wilson is talking about the '95 or '96 summer tour, I think that was more of a "double headliner" situation. At the show I saw Billy played first, so he was really the opener. I left right after Bill ended only to find out later that he eventually came back and did "Sexuality" with BNLs. I'll withhold comments on their relative suckiness, too.
Bob
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 18:03:28 (GMT)

erin what coupland book has the modified us map in????
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 18:01:51 (GMT)

damn it!!! erin, what would i do with out you.
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:59:02 (GMT)

wait. maybe i read you wrong. but 'hadn't' is a proper contraction, even if it is rarely used. i was wrong, wasn't i? you knew, didn't you? if i hadn't thought there was reason for concern i wouldn't have even mentioned it, eventhough i am still thinking of sending you a copy of 'elements of style' for christmas...but i do have a good one: a manager of mine (past or present, i won't say which) regularly uses the word 'sunt' as a past-past tense of the word 'sent'. i could slap him. now that's bad.
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:48:46 (GMT)

Len Wallace and Barry Crimmins opened for Billy and they most assuredly do not suck.
Barbara
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:46:41 (GMT)

Pete, how was the Reading gig ?
Ralph Coates
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:44:54 (GMT)

Kate Rusby, Darren Hanlon, Weddings Parties Anything, Hank Wangford, the Moodswings... Actually nine times out of ten Bill's opening act is excellent.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:32:29 (GMT)

Not forgetting Porky The Poet (though he was a bit hit and miss in them days).
not a real green dress, that's cruel !
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:23:07 (GMT)

and TV Smith (or did he open for Tom Robinson ?).
Gordon
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:20:45 (GMT)

Barenaked Ladies also opened for Billy (Ooer) !
Brian Wilson
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:19:18 (GMT)

can i go? thinking about running off to wood green london to get married this february... what do you think?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:02:50 (GMT)

i mention that because i proof read something peter wrote last night and he typed... 'hadn't' how funny is that? i'm not that bad am i?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:01:29 (GMT)

the saskatoon date is not set, but it'll be before the first thaw. and, if by some lucky chance the karma police haven't received that apb that's out on me yet, it'll be after a brief stint in copenhagen...ah, denmark in january...i'm so excited i can hardly sit still. (cross your fingers for me if you want pretty danish souvenirs...)
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 17:01:12 (GMT)

i would also like to submit a new entry for review by the oed...'eventhough'. i don't give my support to the evolution of the english language lightly (go iceland!), but in this case an exception ought to be made. just for you.
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:58:22 (GMT)

erin... so when are we moving? we gotta get the hell outta here.
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:56:36 (GMT)

washington is gorgeous this morning, although i will never agree that it beats beautiful oregon. for many reasons, but the first two that come to mind are 1. they have sales tax here, and 2. these poor bastards have to pump their own gas. (john kitzhaber, you rock!)
erin
seattle, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:55:47 (GMT)

and keri, as i've said before, 25 yr olds can most certainly be friends with 41 yr olds...absolutely. witness---well, nevermind. it all depends upon what type of 25 yr old you are, and whether you submit to the peer-theory that you've got to stay in your own league. (you'd better not...)
erin
seattle bound for anacortes today, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:53:32 (GMT)

how is the great state of washington today?
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:50:49 (GMT)

don't gang up on me or anything, but at the portland show in september, sarah harmer (the opener) had a greater impact on me by tenfold than billy did. he redeemed himself two nights later in bc, but she was awesome there, too. so sorry, dyl, and i might've agreed with you until i saw that very show, but no way are his openers rubbish.
erin
seattle still, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:50:02 (GMT)

http://www.washingtontimes.com/metro/default-2000121322282.htm
keri <something to look forward too.>
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:29:50 (GMT)

Luther, does the phrase "sense of humor" mean anything to you? No? How about "sense of humour"?
Bob LUCIER, JR. <backinmyhole@upluther's"arse".com>
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:11:12 (GMT)

sarah harmer not rubbish.
keri
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:04:10 (GMT)

Concerning the post from "Just Wondering" at 10:53:16: Don't you have anything better to do, Bob Lucier Jr? Go on then. Crawl back into your hole. And take your homophobia with you.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 16:02:45 (GMT)

all in the "not rubbish" category of course
Mick
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 15:54:37 (GMT)

Hefner. Ted Hawkins. Michelle Shocked.
Mick St John
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 15:46:31 (GMT)

http://www.candlerecords.com.au
Darren Hanlon <rubbishmyarse@candlerecords.com.au>
Australia - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 15:06:23 (GMT)

one great name to spoil that game: Kate Rusby
chris <duckyfuzz>
london, england - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 15:01:52 (GMT)

"Acts that open for Billy Bragg on tour are usually rubbish" Discuss
Dyl
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 14:51:38 (GMT)

if anyone knows the name of the guy who opened for bragg in toronto on oct 8 let me know please. i would just like to say that the progresion of billy bragg's music is wonderful. after all these years i have finally got my dad into his music. all thanks to the mermaid ave records
kickerlib <kickerlib@yahoo.ca>
hamilton, canada - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 14:46:15 (GMT)

Steve: Firstly I'm not looking for an argument. I was a shop steward for many years and later worked in management. As a manager I could never reconcile my socialism with what I was being asked to do on a daily basis. Some people I know juggle the two (In their opinion) perfectly well but personally I couldn't handle the contradictions and had to move on to other things. I am also a FORMER member of the SWP and having seen them in operation this morning am truly glad to be out of it. (More of that and the evolution to a friendlier capitalism when I get back from the Vauxhall plant at Luton.) I have a Sunderland Labour Club beer monster T-shirt hanging around somewhere
Dickie <sodisgusted@generalmotorsmychampershaslostit'sfizz>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 13:18:30 (GMT)

1st chance to let anyone know about the Shane MacGowan/ SLF gig last night in Nottingham. F**king excellent.SLF rocked and Shane was on excellent form,welcome back. Cheers , one happy music lover!
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 12:00:04 (GMT)

Did Luther just come out of the closet or is he talkin' British again?
Just Wonderin' <nothingwrongwithmenlovingmen@how'spamgonnatakethenews.com>
USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 10:53:16 (GMT)

And while I know John Wearing from e-mail and tape trading, my mate is John Barrington Jones, the big goofy guy with long hair who was trying to tape the gig.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 08:57:30 (GMT)

Dan Bern's "Most American Men" has not yet been released, but I've asked for it to be included on the forthcoming album so we'll see what happens. In the meantime, Susan, if your computer can play MP3s, you can download the song from ftp://24.9.172.94/. Cheers. I'm glad you enjoyed the show.
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 08:47:14 (GMT)

O.K. Dan Bern rocks! funny and raw and dead sexy. He broke his guitar in a Who like manner to the astonishment of the audience. Sing-along and good commentary. My favorite song was "Like most American men" which I learned, much to my dismay, is NOT featured on any album!!!! WAH! Thanks Luther for the push to go see him. Turns out my next-door neighbor is a big fan of his and we've now bonded thanks to this show! Very good experience all around. Now back to studying about information retrieval systems... oh, luther, is your mate John Mr. John Wearing? I thought I saw him but at the end of the show lost track and didn't get to say hello (we met at S.F. Billy show in October.) I've been so bad in my correspondence with him--I feel a bit of a cheese... Any how, I gather you'll get the set list info. from him (don't know names of songs--but will tell you now that Jerusalem was excellent!)
Susan
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 08:37:48 (GMT)

Sorry Bogues. The very coolest people are 44.
Barbara
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 08:06:22 (GMT)

Sorry Nevski, that was pretty vague of me. Shawn Colvin, a female singer/songwriter, opened the Battery Park show for Billy on July 1, 2000.
Barbara
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 08:05:36 (GMT)

Bob, the builder: Yes, we can! ... Steve: I wasn't questioning the need (or not) for change in Cuba (only know that US blockades are disgrace and starving people left right and centre and Castro's no hero fo mine). I was questioning merely that your logic that people in Cuba are the only people you know that want revolution (not a word I bandy about but neither something I'd rule out entirely), whilst at the same time saying that revolutionary change happens when people want it. I may be wrong but there doesn't seem to be much revolutionary change going on in Cuba at the moment. Therefore, by YOUR initial logic the Cubans don't want change. Just a thought, like.
Tettland
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 07:56:59 (GMT)

How was the Dan Bern gig in Santa Cruz, Susan? Did you make it?
Luther Gaylord
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 05:40:09 (GMT)

Bogues: only for another week!
geoff
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 05:07:55 (GMT)

susan... damn.. i wish i didn't live on the other coast otherwise i would so be there. i live at the funniest place on earth... 3 cheers for the super!!! it's dwight yorke humour if you must know. question now is, why can't 25 year olds be friends with 41 year olds??? eRIN, is even though (one word or two words?) oh, my, god! send me to saskatoon...
keri
brooklyn, the only place to be., - Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 02:51:27 (GMT)

how about recovering first generationn glam rocker come revolutionery atheist sunderland supporting wanker...about covers it
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com>
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 01:18:31 (GMT)

the term 'new age hippy' always makes me laugh, not sure why?..
steve
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 01:16:37 (GMT)

Steve: When I asked you to "work up the courage to name the people you choose to insult," you must have thought I said, "please falsely attribute several quotes to me." Just because I won't pay $50, doesn't mean I'm a new age hippy.
Michael
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 00:56:05 (GMT)

Susan - actually the REALLY cool people are all 42. Right Bill? Right Pete C?
Boguespierre <Oh... and me too, of course!>
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 00:54:05 (GMT)

Brian, were you still at work at 23 o'clock? Hope you're getting some nice home cooked Indian food these days...
Susan
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 00:35:38 (GMT)

Been studying hard all day (and for another 3 hours) so that I can go see Dan Bern tonite. (I deserve a break today!) Brian, ah, 34 bumps: there are so many cool people in their 30's ;)
Susan
- Wednesday, December 13, 2000 at 00:34:21 (GMT)

...and one for luck, two for luck and three for the old mans coconuts
Brian
London, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 23:08:15 (GMT)

Susan - 34 bumps for Sinead
Brian
London, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 23:04:10 (GMT)

Can we fix it?
Bob
The, Builder - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:51:26 (GMT)

Carol, not sure of my whereabouts on the days after x-mas. DO call me (or e-mail)--I should know what the f*&^ I'm doing soon... I love the MUG! I spent most of today studying there.
Susan
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:50:51 (GMT)

Happy Birthday Sinead! What a perfect day to buy her brilliant new album, faith and courage! (Thanks for the info, Brian)
Susan
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:45:56 (GMT)

Ohmigod! keri, I had no idea Parker had good politics!!!! WOW! Ironic, today I just sent out a mass e-mail to my classmates inviting them to a party girl party at my house. She is so fricken' kewl!
Susan
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:45:03 (GMT)

clarification... i don't think album sales has any effect on the price of tickets. just a curious thought on the train this morning...what impact does the cost of cds in the uk have on album sales? spinning out of control... need to get out of here.
keri
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:26:28 (GMT)

erin, glad to hear you made it safe and sound. i don't have any real details... except that she complimented kate on her sweater and shoes (ie typical girl bathroom chatter.) i've boxed up your gift and it will be hitting the USPS by the end of the week. and for the poll question-- i'll agree with your conclusion on the phone this morning. 4 bucks, but dare i ask is that before or after taxes? saskatoon here i come.
keri
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:15:21 (GMT)

erin, not as many as he deserves.
nevski
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:14:45 (GMT)

death row survivors? more details, keri...thanks, by the way, everyone who had something to say about saskatoon last week. it's making me less worried. i'm not sorry to say that i refuse to bite the brian adams bullet, though. i'll take the jukebox. and bugs, yes, carol, many thanks. can't wait now. any ideas whether they wear socks with their sandals there? don't want to make a portland faux pas...keri, like i said this morning i think more people in the states bought mermaid avenue, but i don't think that affects ticket prices as much as you might think. let's take another bbgb poll--how many actual dollars does bill himself see from a $50 ticket?
erin <seattle, today>
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 22:08:50 (GMT)

don't forget, I get replies about my views, when Bill your leader is also in higher management, as he runs a business, owns land/property and his admission prices are the subject of market forces, again a case of the double standards you seem to enjoy on here..Carsten if its that shit for you and you have a family, do something about it like stop whinging and move, otherwise stay there and fight like fuck for improvements and get on with it, I dont exactly see you fighting in the trenches for change, maybe whinging in the trenches
steve
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 21:58:46 (GMT)

briliant post Luscious Linda ...Tetts, I followed up my post to say Cubans have an oppresive regime. Cubans are are on rations, especially in the country areas, although they do have enough food, I have a cuban ration book from 1998...but we can all dream and blame every other other capitalist country and say castro is a 'nice' man. Dickie, I agree, Ive met one or two people who also give a shit, in fact Ive met 1000s in my travels and in my home town of sunderland. Ive been a memebr of the SWP Ive fought black and blue for peoples rights and I still do, even more so when in management(which really rubs these utopian ideologists up the wrong way)Im still doing it today , My dad was sec of the FBU.I know which side Im on....Still nothing shows me that people 1) are bothered enough to desire change...2) they are mostly happy with what they have got...3)most consider 'revolution' to be a word students use....4) the attitude that 'they' the 'classes' terms used on here regualrly, don't know what's good for them reeks of elitism and only sets back any progress needed, I really believe a 'revolution' will never come. but capitalism will evolve into a better capatilism, so MARX GOT IT WRONG DIDNT HE...
steve
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 21:52:57 (GMT)

Suddenly, moshers noticed, the rest of the band had left the stage. What was that song Lars was playing? It was actually the opening lines to folk-rock singer/songwriter Billy Bragg's 1986 rally "There Is Power in a Union." Of course the quote was appropriate for the Bragg reference in Rancid's impassioned "The War's End," which Frederiksen proceeded to play solo. But more pointedly, the Bragg reference called subtle notice to the riots that tore this city apart a year ago to the day, during protests of the World Trade Organization, as well as to an ongoing, much- publicized strike by workers at Seattle's daily newspapers. http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/001201/story5.html
.
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 21:13:08 (GMT)

i'm going barbara. bought my ticket or rather voucher yesterday at lunch. i think it's good move.. it should ensure i won't passout at 1030 like new years past.
keri
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 20:41:13 (GMT)

im being dumb, that was shawn mullins (crawls back under table)
nevski
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 20:36:39 (GMT)

shawn colvin, was he the 'rockaby' bloke... is there a connection to billy there somewhere or am i being dumb?
nevski
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 20:31:12 (GMT)

Bill played for free - just him and Mac - in New York City this summer. Toss in Shawn Colvin as well. Can we split the difference between the free show and the $50 dollars? If I could get to the NYEve show, I'd do it in a heartbeat. If I wanted to see anybody in Detroit that night, I'd pay at least (if not more then) that. Instead, I'll have my yearly party and play "Walt Whitman's Niece" very loud (just like last year). And we may drink the whiskey.
Barbara <overafootoffreshsnowveryprettybutihavetodriveinit>
peopledrivelikejerkswhenthereissnow, eventhougheveryyearwehavesnowwhenwilltheylearn? - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 19:56:52 (GMT)

hey susan, my friend met parker posey at the UN last night. she was part of a discussion about death row survivors... how cool is that?
keri <its time for party girl again.>
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 17:44:40 (GMT)

... and it used to be that we just used to send people to Coventry if we wanted to punish them!
Tettland
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 17:41:57 (GMT)

Steve: "the only people Ive know where the majority want a revolution is Cuba... if the people wanted change you'd get it." Do they or don't they want change in Cuba then? By your own logic they apparently don't, but I wouldn't know either way. Not trying to pick a fight, just curious.
Tettland
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 17:37:54 (GMT)

Sent to Belfast as a punishment?......catch yerself on!
stewart
Belfast, - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 17:27:07 (GMT)

Susan - it's Sinead O'Connors birthday today
Brian
London, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 17:17:52 (GMT)

Susan--my remarks concerning Cuba weren't addressed to you. I would love to go there, but my international travel quota is filled at the moment--I am staying home these days and only going to pubs once a week and leaving early. I am going to be in Capitola for a few days after Christmas--how about joining me for a cup of coffee at The Ugly Mug?
Carol
San Francisco, - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 16:39:37 (GMT)

Steve,I am astounded that you managed to get a seat in a pub on Grafton Street as most of them are full of greedy folk who just use the seats as fake fur rests!!! However you are right about people here not giving a fuck about ideology or anything worthwhile ! They're just too busy thinking that there is some sort of "Celtic Tiger" appearing in there wages Regards Luscious
Luscious Linda <linda.mcdonnell@mccann-fitzgerald.ie>
Dublin, Ireland - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 16:34:09 (GMT)

Hi Carol, Yeah, I send packages whenever I can with money inclosed, and in fact the thing to do is NOT exchange it. Dollars are used and are preferrable for Cubans. The only time I saw pesos was at the farmers market AND again when someone tried to sell me a 3 peso "Che" coin (worth about 17 cents) for 3 dollars. (Sorry, this tourist ain't that dumb!) Anyhow, I whinged because I'm looking for a way to send money over there regularly to a friend whose mother wants him to quit school and work. I figure $20 a month would keep her very happy (as average monthly salary is $12). Tried to send a small package with my car mechanic but he refused, said he was packing light. I figure his attitude will change after his trip. (Good mechanic but not very good samaritan!) I don't profess to know a lot about Cuba but I do know that the embargo is ridiculous and making life very hard for some very dear people. Literacy rates are higher in Cuba than in the U.S. btw. (and the percentage of people who can dance is probably higher as well. 2 very good reasons for this gal to be going back this summer!)
Susan
Santa Cruz, CA, USA - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 16:29:16 (GMT)

price perspective... the tickets for sept./oct. here in the states were 25 dollars which would be around 17 quid if i can do math properly. but what got me thinking this morning, who has sold more mermaid ave. albums? the uk or the us? enough. need to get my work done.
keri
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 15:36:42 (GMT)

I am not an expert on Cuba. I have never visited it, but a mere visit wouldn't make me an expert, either, I don't know if people want a revolution there or not. From what I hear, they want the US embargo lifted. However, I don't think sitting in pubs is any more of an accurate method of gauging people's thoughts and opinions than a "socialist" (this term is used very loosely by some people here) who is a union steward and who files grievances for his co-workers. BTW, I have never "whinged" about ticket prices. I am not in that camp.
Carol
San Francisco - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 14:42:20 (GMT)

Steve: At the risk of sounding like an "arrogant bastard"·Socialism is a political and economic theory not a lifestyle. Like most political theories and ideologies different people interpret it in different ways. I for one would never hold Cuba up as a socialist model but would protest vigorously at any US aggression towards it. Fortunately on my travels I have had the luck to meet one or two people who do give a shit·Even at football matches.
Dickie <domperignon@humourlessgits.co.uk>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 13:51:38 (GMT)

...to Belfast as a punshment? Good one, Steve. You mean like William J Clinton who's arriving here for a third time tomorrow as a punishment? - At least no punishment for people like me who can't get to work through the sealed off streets.
Carsten
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 13:33:44 (GMT)

In general, tickets are pricier in London because everything is pricier; they're conforming to the same rule as a can of coke or a semi-detatched house. Also a lot of artists will play a bigger venue in London than most places on a tour.
chris <duckyfuzz@hotmail.com>
london, england - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 13:27:27 (GMT)

It wasn't so much a comment bout Billy's prices in London , but more a general comment. I'm always reading "Ticket prices £8 except for London where it's £10", that sort of thing. Why ?
Bun E Carlos
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 13:20:24 (GMT)

simon those were great photos of you and bIll which I will add to my sad collection of Bill photos(most signed)..is the ova arf from Newcastle..send me you address simon
steve
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 12:32:19 (GMT)

Cheap Trick,...now Aint That a Shame..and robert zander a fan of alvin lee I believe
steve
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 12:23:35 (GMT)

Since when has anyone paid too much money to see Cheap Trick?
Robin Zander
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 12:05:32 (GMT)

of course Castro is an oppressive bastard and should be sent to belfast as a punishment..Mick, Ive seen Marco destroy some great teams...Darlo what a place I lived at North Cowton, for a few years loved it there, do you know it?...Northern Teen it was the one in the town centre, is that being pulled down??..aweful bloody place wasnt it, do they still have the dancing festivals in Billy
steve
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 11:57:47 (GMT)

Ive sat in pubs in grafton street and on buses in Dublin and talked with people who didnt give a fuck abour socialism and fighting for an idelogy, Ive done the same in croatia, albania, norway, portugal, cayman islands, birmingham, guam and glasgow and panama city...australia doesnt come into it as people couldnt give a flying fuck here as long as they are first away at a red light and have a fridge full of XXXX...(:)..of course the only place everybody wants a revolution is belfast, especially if you surround yourself with like minded people, funnily enough the only people Ive know where the majority want a revolution is Cuba, where a very close friend of mine lives...all very different from what we are led to believe by the socialists(loosely termed) on here, if the people wanted change you'd get it.
steve <cant live someones elses fantasy>
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 11:54:03 (GMT)

It HASN'T EVER cost "much more" in London for Bragg gigs. Tickets for all UK and Ireland gigs on the current tour have come out at around the £12 mark (that's what I'm paying for Reading tonight), which is more than reasonable IMHO. The Barbican was slightly different, in that the venue prices tickets according to set "seating plans", which cover a wide range of prices. Thus, while the most expensive seats (£17.50) were more pricey than any others on the tour, the cheapest seats (£8) were the *least* expensive on the tour, as far as I am aware. I would have preferred all tickets to be priced in the middle of this range, but I am fairly certain this would have been out of Bill or his management's hands. In UK terms at least, Bill's prices have never been anything other than completely reasonable.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 10:42:58 (GMT)

On the subject of ticket prices at gigs , why does it always cost much more in London ?
Bun E. Carlos
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 09:49:08 (GMT)

www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/lifestyle.html - For a not very interesting report on Shane and his name dropping, fame seeking girlfriend at the Priory. Was anybody at the Astoria last night?
Dickie <pinotnoir@marne.champers>
(Not) Billericay, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 08:41:27 (GMT)

(still) on the subject of ticket prices, I paid £10 to see Bill in 1996, and £11 in 2000. Not many other artists who upped the ticket price by a quid in 4 years.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 08:33:05 (GMT)

Susan: Contact a group of people who are going to Cuba, and give them the $20 cash and the name of the person you want it to go to (or organization). They can exchange it when they arrive and see that it gets to the proper person(s). Most of the people who go to Cuba are idealistic and trustworthy.
Carol <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 03:09:23 (GMT)

I paid IR£13.50 to see BB in Galway. Seemed pretty reasonable to me... no capitalist lackeys out to exploit the downtrodden there. How does that compare? (That would maybe be about £11.00 sterling.)
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
bogsville, Ireland - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 03:00:34 (GMT)

That's the second request I've seen for this info. Bill played "Against th'Law" on Craig Kilborn's show - same slower than the album version he's been playing on tour. I even taped it.
Boguespierre
- Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 02:47:39 (GMT)

When Billy was here in Stockholm, he played a great song, but I can't remember the name of it. As usual he said alot of things about it before he played it, and what I remember is following: Van Morrison had played it at some concert that Billy was visiting. At the end of the song, Van looked at his watch, and left without singing the last words. I also think that Billy said it was an old irish traditional song, I'm not sure about this though. He might also have said something about this song having a connection of some kind to U2. If anybody knows which song I'm thinking about, PLEASE mail me! I just have to hear that song again. Cheers.
Andreas Rolfer
Stockholm, Sweden - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 01:13:40 (GMT)

My turn to whinge about something. Western Union charges $29 to send money *any amount* to Cuba. Somehow I just can't bear to pay that to send $20 there... The embargo and all the bullshit that goes with it SUCKS!!!
Susan
Santa Cruz, CA, USA - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 00:27:31 (GMT)

Brian, I'm Ulster born and bred but currently exiled in Connacht - live in a godforsaken damp stretch of bog in Co. Galway.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
the bog, Ireland - Tuesday, December 12, 2000 at 00:15:16 (GMT)

Keri, I'm *** pushing it east * but it *** seems to be *******************sticking
B**arb**ara
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 23:59:52 (GMT)

Does anyone know the name of the song Billy played on Craig Kilborn? I cant remember the name...Drop me an email please if you can help...THANKS!
Mark <mark@acsnet.com>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 22:21:12 (GMT)

barbara, are you sending the snow this way? i need a few feet of it here.
keri
new york, - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 21:52:32 (GMT)

Sonj. I NEED your address... is your email working?????
Barmy Rob <barmyrob@yahoo.co.uk>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 21:49:03 (GMT)

snow snow snow snow * * * * * * * *
Barbara the snowy <didimentionitwassnowing@royaloakmichigan>
weatheroutsideisfrightful, butthefireissodelightful - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 21:47:59 (GMT)

Carsten, Indeed I do mean England, Half English.... too much Guinness!!!!
Barmy Rob
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 21:18:27 (GMT)

Steve mate, which college in Billy did you go to? Bede or Stockton&Billingham? I live in Billingham (and have done all me life). Stockton&Billingham (right next to the town centre) is to be knocked down soon, as is the Forum (which plays host to Teesside's biggest pantomimes every year), to be replaced by a new supermarket. Anyway, bye for now. PS. Nial Quinn is still a cheating diving b@stard and I hate him more than David Beckham
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 20:10:30 (GMT)

i'm in.
keri
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 19:29:52 (GMT)

PUT THAT LIGHT OUT!
x
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 18:44:43 (GMT)

http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/image/0011/earthlights_dmsp_big.jpg
keri <mauritius>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 17:32:53 (GMT)

Does anyone know if last night's Vicar Street show will really be broadcast on RTE?
aj
Dublin, - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 16:20:13 (GMT)

Paul, did you ever get a chance to listen to the new Beautiful South album yet? I think it's actually very good, particularly the 2nd disc. --- Steve, I must admit I wouldn't know many people who are 'perfectly happy' with the system they live in, then again I'm in Ireland not in Australia :). Got some good news today: apparently the child benefit is going up by 50p for the first, and 35p for the second child per week! With such a social and generous govt. who needs to play "Who wants to be a millionaire?" ?
Carsten
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 16:09:06 (GMT)

Steve, further to your comments, I had another listen to 'Bloody Well live' over the weekend. It's good granted, and there is a cracking version of 'Hard Men', but it still doesn't really have the bllod and thunder of 'Nee gud Luck', or indeed 'The first few drops', but I wouldn't want anyone to think I didn't recommend it.The stuff with Joseph from Blyth Power sounds intriguing too. Cheers mate. Anymore views on TMTCH at the Fiddler on saturday night welcome too. Pete, Ghosts of cable street to start with, anything else that was particularly memorable?
Paul W
Bratislava, - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 15:33:32 (GMT)

Has anyone seen a review of Saturday Night's "Last Tango in Harlesden" gig at the Mean Fiddler anywhere on the web ? If so, please post the URL. Ta.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 13:34:50 (GMT)

Ah, good old Marco, an absolute hero in the town of my birth (Darlington) after his sterling efforts for the mighty Quakers over the last two or three seasons. Top scorer in Div 3 two seasons running I think. There is no doubt he would have stayed had Darlo been promoted last season (lost in play-off final) but nobody in Darlington would blame him for leaving when a 2nd div. side came in for him. Ironic that it had to be Northampton, the team that pipped us for the last automatic promotion spot. Funny old game, she's a cruel mistress etc etc!
Mick St John
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 13:28:55 (GMT)

Steve: Couldn't agree more.
Tettland
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 12:52:59 (GMT)

Steve, Marco's playing well but he's not scoring (3 so far). He's had so much bad luck - hitting the post, bar etc, and he's crafting a role as an attacking midfielder, but I'm sure he's capable of more.
Dyl
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 12:08:37 (GMT)

dyl, hiya whats hapening with Marco Gabbiadini, is he still at Northmpton??..Northern Teen, I agree it was a really dodgy decision to disallow that goal, apprantly quinn was fouled and the whistle was blown before the header was made. Quinn is a handful and defenders hate playing against him, Its shite at the bottom I know supporting sunderland has given me plenty to complain about since my first game in 1968 ...I lived in Hartburn for a while and went to Billingham college to learn how to be a raving capitalist...hahaha
steve
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 11:52:25 (GMT)

sorry tetts no insults intended..just speaking my mind, sorry if this is not allowed, I just disagree with the attitude on ticket prices. I also fully understand how capitalism is exploitive and manipulative, I live as much as I can as a socialist, no one can assume otherwise ,however if we open our eyes we will see how so many people are perfectly happy and have no inclination for quick change, and nothing pisses me off more than the 'oh I'm a socialist and the working class dont know whats good for them'as we know there are a few of these arrogant bastards on here....enjoy
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 11:47:17 (GMT)

Must agree about watching BB witha 'price whinger'. I went to my first BB gig with another BB virgin. He felt ripped off that BB didn't have a band with him - "All that money for a bloke with just a guitar" was the quote I remember. Just goes to show that BB can't win.
Dyl
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 11:36:58 (GMT)

Michael, just read the posts from the last two weeks to see all the sorry moaning about admittance prices to gigs (especially Bills new year gig)...I couldnt be bothered to go to a gig if I was upset at the price, how do you put a price on a gig, the art, the pleasure, the enjoyment , the feelings, why should you have the right to insult an artist for charging $50 a ticket on a night when rates are a premium and so are costs, it's Bills right, and yours not to go if you dont want to, and none of you so-called socialists have once gave the $ figure you consider fair and thats because you have no idea of costs, unless you are guessing Bills bank balance, I once went to see Bill with a 'price whinger' years ago, never again I tell you...try staying at home and watch your pirate videos or listen to your MP3s...or even better read the ragged trousered philanthropist again and reassure yourselves how enslaved people are, me I just keep taking the opiates, "C'mon you reds"...Pam what are you raving on about(no pun)...I care more for socialism than you can ever imagine. I just dont see life through the eyes of the SWP
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 11:33:33 (GMT)

Marianne - subcontinental is a word (just checked) - will use that one later - in work on a sunday coz I work for a newspaper so having to do a load of xmas crap - what part of Eire ya from?
Brian
London, UK - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 11:07:26 (GMT)

Oh and one more thing, there seems to have been a demographic change in Billy's fan base. There was a notable absence of beards and smocks at the Bristol gig ;)
Gaz
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 10:13:17 (GMT)

Just back from a week off work. I know it's old ground but I felt i must just comment on the Bristol gig. It was much better than last year's gigs with a better balance to the set. Of course we'd all love to hear more of the classics but pretty much every artist uses tours to promote new material. The new songs are mostly good. I liked Dreadbelly which seems to get panned on here, but I would hope that Billy won't go too far down the Ian Dury road. My only criticism of the Blokes is that they tend to lend the same feel to all the songs - and please can they stop doing the ska/reggae breakdowns in songs? Back to the positives, it was a great gig and I met BB for the first time afterwards which confirmed my good opinion of him. I look forward to hearing the new album, but I hope that it is BB led and that the influence of the blokes is not too great.
Gaz
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 10:06:16 (GMT)

Rich - you are indeed correct. Your prize - to bask in the warm inner glow. Boguespierre - thank you for correcting Toby's errant memories. Luke - come to the dark side.
James Earl Jones
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 03:22:31 (GMT)

for more on Darren Hanlon go to www.candlerecords.com.au
geoff
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 03:17:56 (GMT)

it's much too late at night for me to do conundrums. bad news, my tv access to the BBgb has fallen over and the new house is still pc free. Good news, without a pc alberr and i have actually spent some time in the same room:) ok. it's only watching uk drama but it's nice all the same.
sonj <night night>
- Monday, December 11, 2000 at 00:37:38 (GMT)

Brian, what the feck were you doing in the office on a Sunday? ;-) Actually someone told me there were 2 other such words and it drove me bananas for a while - terrible pickle for a smartarse like me to find meself in! If anyone knows of 'em, do tell.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
bogsville, Ireland - Monday, December 11, 2000 at 00:09:22 (GMT)

Craig, the SLF support is more than reason to go. I last saw Shaney Mac at another Fleadh and was severly dissapointed, not only the constant mug, but a bloody cigarette roadie also!
Jon
Bristol, UK - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 23:17:27 (GMT)

Marianne - cheers - someone asked the question in the office today and I actually worked out abstemious and he looked at me and said "oh - there must be two then" - not too bad with the words on Countdown - its the maths that does my nut in
Brian
London, UK - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 23:03:41 (GMT)

I can only comment on Shane's performance last night, not predict future ones. Ironically, in a Bragg context, he had a mug in his hand virtually all the time. I'd like to think it had herbal tea in it, but I doubt it... I have many positive memories of watching Shane McGowan, mostly with the Pogues, which is why last night was a very depressing way for me to leave the Mean Fiddler for the last time.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 22:29:23 (GMT)

Brian there are in fact 2 words featuring all 5 vowels once only and in the right order. They are "facetious" and "abstemious". Anyone know of one that features all 5, once only, BACKWARDS? The only one I ever got was "subcontinental", but I don't think that's a word. Yeah... I always get the conundrums on Countdown ahead of the contestants, too. ;-)
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
in the heart of the bog, Ireland - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 22:25:03 (GMT)

Totally agree about the Christy Moore reports, he is an excellent musician, Im listening to him 'Live at The Point' whilst im surfing about tonight. The live scene will be poorer without him.
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 22:20:07 (GMT)

After reading Peters reveiw of the last night of the Mean Fiddler, and the appearence of Mr MacGowan, i am having second thoughts of travelling to Nottingham on Tuesday to see him perform with the Popes. Stiff Little Fingers are also supporting him. I just hope he's in better form than last week. Back to Nottingham next Sunday to see Billy, no need to worry about his performance though. Ah well thats show biz i suppose.MacGowan is still a genius in my eyes though.
Craig <o'brien@celtic.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 22:14:56 (GMT)

I first saw Christy in the George Robey on Tollington Road in Highbury, London, in 1983, and I bought my copy of "The Time Has Come" there and then. The title track being written for the hunger strikers, of course. The guy is literally following doctors' orders that he should never gig again, due to heart problems. He is still writing, as far as I know. A huge talent and a great guy.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London , England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 22:08:14 (GMT)

I've seen Christy at the Fleadh on more than one occasion, and he generally blows the crowd away. One man, one guitar and a heap of excellent tunes, no fillers. The Fleadh will be a different place without him.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 21:36:08 (GMT)

rob lang... you're a star. sunday afternoon chores haven't been so fun. thanks for the mp3s.
keri
ny, ny, - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 20:59:47 (GMT)

The B47 line is meant ironically (but with a definite nod of respect) fwiw.
Pete
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 20:19:57 (GMT)

Yep, you are quite correct, Luther. Me old brain cells are going. Thanks for this. "Do yez not know nothing by Christy Moore?" - Black 47, "Rockin' the Bronx".
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 20:01:36 (GMT)

His name is Christy Moore.
Luther Gaylord
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 19:51:10 (GMT)

Christie Moore is marvellous. Luther chose to bring up a point I made in an email to him perhaps five years ago. I stand by the point that I made at the time, but as we know Christie is now to ill ever to play a gig again, and has moved on to other things.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 19:48:49 (GMT)

I saw Christie Moore perform twice in the early '90s. I can't remember how much I paid, but I feel very fortunate indeed to have seen him. I only go to three or four shows a year, and if I had to pay $50 to see Christie, I would cut out the other three shows and feel privileged to do so. He is a marvel. We should treasure him.
Carol
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 18:38:20 (GMT)

I have a problem with capitalism, per se. At its very roots, it is an exploitive system. It exploits labor, natural resources, and consumers in order to obtain the highest possible profit. Any such system that is based on screwing over anything in search of more and more money is inherently evil.
memphis
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 18:24:43 (GMT)

I have absolutely no problem with capitalism per se...and i am a socialist...However i do have a problem when big buisness has more lobbying power than the voices of ordinary people....our country should be run on the principle that buisness and government serve the people and not the other way round
Stewart <law.ivsni@dnet.co.uk>
Belfast, United Kingdom - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 17:25:10 (GMT)

Maybe people do like capitalism. However, when it ceases to provide the majority of people the necessities of life, they look to alternative ways to survive. They most frequently look towards governmental solutions; even very conservative people do that. Right now, in San Francisco, people with jobs can't find a place to live. They are really pissed off about it. I have no idea what permanent solutions they will come up with, but capitalism is failing them right now and right here in SF. My new "roommate" just left to spend the night in a youth hostel. She'll be back in a few days.
Carol
San Francisco, - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 16:51:58 (GMT)

help - anyone know what is the only english word that features all 5 vowels in alphabetical order
Brian
London, UK - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 16:38:31 (GMT)

Steve (johnquays) you have no idea how wrong you are. It is precisely because we DO know that you don't give a damn about socialism and that you don't feel enslaved by capitalism that baffles us. The only conclusions we can draw are 1. people are completely brainwashed into believing that the bosses who produce nothing deserve to get the 6 and 7 figure salaries while the workers often get barely subsistance pay, 2. people really don't give a rat's ass about others, or 3. as Luther would say, you are sheep. Now go piss yourself laughing over this.
Pam <raverp@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 16:22:37 (GMT)

Steve, who's "they" and "them" in your last whining about the whiners post? If you locate your spine while you are cleaning up after pissing yourself, work up the courage to name the people you choose to insult.
Michael
NikeTown, United Slaves of America - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 16:19:17 (GMT)

Thanks Pete Crook. My Belfast friend obviously missed that bit of info out! Galway gig started fairly prompt just after 8. (That is *frighteningly* prompt for Galway.) Who are you btw? Are you one of the entourage? You seem to go to all the gigs and be very "well up" on matters Braggesque.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
somewhere in the bog, Ireland - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 15:24:03 (GMT)

Steve, I'm staggered that a man as rational as you believes that Nial Quinn was fouled even once in that game. A big 6'6" lad like him and all he ever does is fall over. He can't stay on his feet! Every time the ball came near him he went over. Okay Ricard's dive was disgraceful, but he doesn't cheat as constantly as Quinn. And what the hell was wrong with our goal? No sour grapes, like.
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 13:13:32 (GMT)

Desert Rat Shorty: follow the merchandise link at the top of this page for the t-shirt.
Tettland
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 13:10:05 (GMT)

Carsten: did you get my mail? Drop me a line, when you get a chance. steve: me thinks you're a bit too fond of telling us what a bunch of deluded sheep we all are that you're in danger of sounding like Luther. Dialogue not insults, please ...
Tettland
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 13:08:57 (GMT)

Does anybody know where I can get ' 'This machine kills fascists' t-shirt that were used as promo for mermaid avenue 1? Billy's good but Woody was God
Desert Rat Shorty <Desert-Rat-Shorty@ukonline.co.uk>
Leeds, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 12:15:06 (GMT)

Marianne - before you feel hard done by about the length of the Galway gig, the Derry and Belfast ones didn't *start* 'til 10-11 o'clock. I'm sure you didn't miss out on anything.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 09:58:06 (GMT)

Stuart , they are not bitching, its a sad effort to get everyone to think and behave like them...what they miss is that most people do not give a shite about socialism and do not feel enslaved into capitalism, although the 'experts' on here would like you to believe otherwise...and 'feel' is the operative word here
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com>
pissing myself laughing, steve - professional lobbyist - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 06:38:51 (GMT)

Luther ... stop bitching...just stop...please?
stuart <slipnahari@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 06:22:44 (GMT)

before boro's goal went in I meant
steve
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 04:37:13 (GMT)

Bloody Hell, are you moaning whinging saddo's still barking on about ticket prices..as though there wouldnt be any market forces in your utopian land of forced socialism..good post stewart....for fuck sakes Bill put your prices up to shut them up for ever
steve
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 04:36:05 (GMT)

Sunderland 1 v 0 Boro....not a hint of sour grapes there Northern Teen...quinn was fouled before the 2nd goal went in..good win sunderland and took us into 4th postion...
steve
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 04:34:21 (GMT)

I meant to add, that I wish I'd been able to go to the Derry one too.. by all accounts that was the wrong Derry venue to hold it... but Derry is my home place and a wonderful city - guys don't let a few negative impressions blind you to the charm of the Maiden City. I'm moving back there shortly so don't forget to come back and I'll be there.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
Somewhere out in a bog, Ireland - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 03:53:59 (GMT)

I went to Billy's Galway gig tonight and it was excellent! I heard about it via a friend who'd been at the Belfast one - he sent me an email as soon as he got back. Just before I went out I was online with him and he said... you'll be back late the Belfast gig didn't end till 1. Well - the Galway one ended at 11-ish! (Were we done out of something??) I'm listening here to the "Bootleg" as I type this. I grew up in Ireland but went to live in England for many "formative" years when I was 18... only coming home three years ago, and since then most of the gigs I've been to have been either Irish groups (like the Saw Doctors God bless 'em) or traditional Irish music - nothing wrong with that of course but it was VERY REFRESHING to hear some music with an ENGLISH (oh all right, half English) flavour to it. We don't get nearly enough "foreign" artists over here methinks. (And Billy has the gall to call US foreigners... ah well I'll let ya off this time.) Been a fan for quite a while but never seen a live show. When I told my friends I was going they said "Billy who?" but when I explained "New England" they nodded... ahhh... that one. (BTW I am Kirsty MacColl's biggest fan.) The Black Box theatre in Galway is a dark old tomb of a place but Billy & the band had it rocking.
Marianne <gbi@indigo.ie>
none, Ireland - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 03:46:52 (GMT)

Luther, A while ago I asked you how much you thought Billy's NYC gig should cost and you avoided the question. If you can't say what you would pay then why state what you won't?
Michael <MoneyChangesEveryThing@Art>
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 03:35:48 (GMT)

LAST TANGO IN HARLESDEN: Very briefly... Eddi Reader was excellent. The Men They Couldn't Hang opened with "The Ghosts of Cable Street", and blasted their way through all their classics. You name it, they played it. And Bobby Valentino played fiddle ! A great, great set, marred only for me by the massively over-zealous moshing (I lasted three numbers, I think). Shane McGowan, sad to report, was tragic, and the closest thing to a dead man singing I have ever seen. He looked awful, sang hopelessly, and I don't think he had a clue where he was. So don't anyone be disappointed that they missed seeing him. I wish *I* had missed seeing him, to be honest. Very sad, because reports I'd read elsewhere seemed to imply he had turned things around.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 02:12:54 (GMT)

Oh, come on, Luther, you *know* I think $50 is too much for the NYC gig, but equally I don't think it's symptomatic of some huge sell-out. I don't understand your post of December 09, 2000 at 20:23:51.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 02:00:01 (GMT)

Luther is a moronic poser. "Radical Music Archive", indeed. "Oh yes, I'm Luther, and I'm so fucking radical!" No real "radical" would have the time he has to post all the places he does and work so hard to alienate others, much less even wish to identify oneself as "radical". What a joiner! He really is lonely, with such a need for approval. Only his need for approval is rather perverse. He knows he's such a twee twit, and since everyone tells him so it's just the twisted kind of approval he needs. All that negativity directed towards him just makes him even more certain that being a difficult is the way to go, that he's right to be so abrasive. Here's the way to treat such an unbalanced person- don't respond to anything he says. Don't answer his posts. Don't reply to his mail. Yes, go ahead and grab all the MP3s he makes available; it's the only thing he's good for, what with the IWW happily making all that free server space available. BTW, here's proof of his hypocrisy and inconsistency: http://www.egroups.com/message/attila/1834. Why doesn't he just go away? He can't. He's addicted.
not Barmy Rob, that's for sure <it's_probably_Luther@so_tediously_Common.sigh>
Ogden, UT, AMERIKA - Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 00:39:37 (GMT)

Cut the crap, Luther. What makes you think the last line is meant ironically, Rob? Btw, I always thought the song was called "England, half English", correct me if I'm wrong.
Carsten
- Sunday, December 10, 2000 at 00:22:36 (GMT)

I think English, Half English is possibly the most politically astute song Bill has EVER written!!!!
Barmy Rob
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 23:32:17 (GMT)

I love the last line of half English - it's completely double-edged with lashings of irony dripping off. Actually I think English, Half English is possibly the most politically astute song Bill has EVER written!!!!
Barmy Rob
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 23:14:25 (GMT)

Nevski - both BB bootlegs - Mermaid Tour and Red Stars are available via billybrag.co.uk - just click on the merchandise link on the homepage.
Mark Warner
Braggtopia!, - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 22:30:40 (GMT)

quick question.. is the no pop no style CD available anywhere in the uk?
nevski <nevski@lineone.net>
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 21:10:50 (GMT)

Regarding Pete C's post at 19:18:53, all I can say is f**k! repeatedly. That'll teach me to spend all weekend 'building' furniture when I could have spent it finding out more about who was playing and getting my arse there. I don't need to say have a good time Pete, it sounds like a dream gig.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 20:26:55 (GMT)

P.S. There are some Christy Moore MP3s available for download from the Radical Music Archive, online at http://hillstrom.iww.org/music/
Luther Gaylord
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 20:25:24 (GMT)

Pete's report from Derry inspired me to put some Christy Moore music on the turntable this morning. As I listened, I remembered a conversation I had with Pete a few years ago, shortly after I discovered Christy. Pete said that he really liked his music, but that he charged too damn much for his gigs. How is it that you have no problem criticizing Christy for his ticket prices, Pete, but you don't see anything wrong with Bill charging $50 at the door?
Luther Gaylord
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 20:23:51 (GMT)

Just got back from Sunderland v. Boro. Nightmare result, should have had a penalty, our goal should have counted, but most of all I am absolutely disgusted with the way the Boro fans were treated like animals by the police. Helicopters, dogs, riot police, barricades, and police screaming at anyone who asked a rational question or innocently tried to get past. Welcome to Sunderland. Boro forever
Northern Teen <teessiders@lycos.com>
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 20:10:10 (GMT)

I wouldn't say I'm "proud" of "England, Half English", but I like it, and appreciate what Bill is trying to do here. The "what a beautiful country you are" closing lines are cringeworthy and corny, though, and I certainly wish they weren't there.
Pete Crook
London, England - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 19:40:10 (GMT)

Carsten, Good one. Ye ole gig-trotter is a perfect name for Pete C. My kitchen floor is getting crowded. I've been having work mates sleep on it because they can't find a place to live in San Francisco. I can't harp on the housing crisis enough. It's like World War II in the urban areas. We just don't have enough housing. There are literally 4 people in my office, all working and making a supposedly living wage, who can't afford to rent apartments, let alone qualify for a mortgage. Some are going through divorces and have bad credit (and to rent an apartment you have to have an excellent credit rating). They stay in hotel rooms, or couch surf, or, if they stay with people who don't have couches (like me) floor surf. The good news is that people are helping one another out. It isn't ideological, but it is the beginning of socialism--really--it all starts with people organizing and figuring out how to survive together. I am sure Billy would approve.
Carol
San Francisco, - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 19:37:42 (GMT)

You mean you STILL haven't changed your T-Shirt, Pete??? :):):) (three big smiles). - Your folks at home sure don't see much of you these days, ye ol' gig-trotter.
Carsten
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 19:28:01 (GMT)

LAST NIGHT OF THE MEAN FIDDLER TONIGHT: I have a ticket now going begging, but time is getting late ! Please email me before 20:00 UK time (ie 45 mins time !) if you want it. £10 or whatever you can afford. Playing: The Men They Couldnāt Hang, Shane McGowan and the Popes, lots of others (but sadly now no Kirsty). Alternatively if you see a bloke outside in a BB William Bloke t-shirt between 8:45 and 9:00, thatāll probably be me, and if itās still unsold Iāll have it.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 19:18:53 (GMT)

Tis strange but I quite like Half English, not sure whether I'm proud of it, maybe if I got the chords and bashed it out on my guitar? I can't wait to hear it and all of the others on the much awaited new LP. As far as the arrangements go to all of the tunes, it reminds me of a crossover between The Pogues and Madness, luckily 2 favorite bands.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 18:50:39 (GMT)

sorry, insert 'on the Belfast gig'
Carsten
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 17:35:01 (GMT)

Hi Stewart, thanks for adding your comments on the which I disagree with 100% but I respect your views. Strangely enough, on "England, half English" I'm actually in complete agreement with Pete C - what a rare occurence :). I have yet to meet an English person who's proud of the song...
Carsten
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 17:30:28 (GMT)

sorry for the awful typing, lazy fingers
claire (again)
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 17:25:45 (GMT)

Is anyone out ther planning o going to the show in Brussels?? If so do yoy fancy meeting up before hand?? Could do with some non-cloggy chat (no offense but feeling a bit dutched out)
claire
Eindhoven, netherlands - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 17:24:38 (GMT)

Myself and my partner were lucky enough to catch Billy at both the Belfast and Derry gigs,I have to say that i preferred the Belfast gig .I saw Billy when he played Belfast last year and i think the band has really come a long way since then,i am looking forward to the new stuff next year.People asked about "half english" and how it was recieved, well i think it went down better in Belfast where the audience understood what he was saying,i think it is a very positive song and something i would be quite proud of if i was English, though in Derry i think it was taken as simply "Brit bashing" which i happen to think is unfortunate, I want to finish by saying that "northern industrial town" is one of the best songs i have heard about my hometown written by an outsider, though the events of the last few days are terrible i am still glad that Billy played the song as i really take hope from the optimism it displays for the future. all the best Stewart and Sandrine
Stewart <law.ivsni@dnet.co.uk>
Belfast, United Kingdom - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 16:49:37 (GMT)

Jon in Bristol: Quick answer: yes, he did. How did it go down? - So, so. I think most people (like myself)were not so sure about the last couple of lines, if you see what I mean... Btw, Pete Crook is on his way back to England and we're both still in one piece. :)
Carsten
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 16:07:31 (GMT)

Pete / Carsten, a quick question, did Bill play Half English and how did it go down? BTW Please post a review of TMTCH, if not for people like me who can't go, then do it for Bill.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 12:50:48 (GMT)

Shit Pete, I forgot to say "take care!" when we split on Thursday. Derry is a magical city but unfortunately it has a bit of a reputation for incidents like the one you described. (So much so that Derry City Council has swamped the City Centre with CCTV cameras, which - surprise, surprise - haven't solved anything.) But I'm glad you realised that asking the way in Derry with an English (or even half-English) accent can have dire consequences. It'll all take a while to normalise, perhaps the Labour govt. could speed things up by making sure the killers of Bloody Sunday are finally held accountable for their actions? See you later.
Carsten
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 12:06:14 (GMT)

DERRY GIG. A bit of personal rambling first· Well, I certainly felt much, much further from home in Derry than I do in Belfast, although admittedly all Iāve really seen of Belfast is the city centre and the Bohemian / studenty Botanic Avenue area, where the gig was, and I stayed. But anyway, and I really hope this isnāt typical of Derry: on arrival, I was walking through the pedestrianised city centre shopping area, at 1 PM. Two groups of about six lads seem to be squaring up to each other, someone shouts ćCome on, big man! Letās go ! Letās go !ä, and all hell breaks loose as they lay into each other, and an almighty ruck breaks out, boots and fists flying. Outside football matches in the bad old days of the 1970s, Iāve never seen anything like it. I stress, right in the city centre. I didnāt wait around to see the outcome. This within my first fifteen minutes in the city. I hope people out there will write in and say that they know Derry, and this isnāt an everyday occurrence, but I can only write what I see· I decided at this point that my planned trip into the Bogside to see the murals, which I had genuinely wanted to make, was probably inadvisable, as asking ćCan you direct me to Free Derry Corner ?ä in an English accent might not be a good idea. Then again maybe Iām just a wimp. No disrespect to the people of Derry intended: I probably just had a very atypical introduction to the city. Anyway, the gig: VERY DIFFERENT to Belfast, and not what I expected at all. The Belfast crowd was lively, noisy, and ranged in age from teenagers to old Īuns. The Derry audience were seated at tables, numbered about 200, and almost without exception were 30 and 40-somethings. This was more marked than at any other Bragg gig Iāve been too. No kids at all. The band were still well received, but there was more than a bit of a difference. And there was I expecting a wild, raucous gig· Same set except for: ćSaturday Boyä (plus ten bonus points) in the solo segment, which Bill concluded ö aaargh - with the ćgoatee beard/belly buttonä stuff (minus twenty bonus points). BILL ! NO! This wasnāt very funny first time round, let alone the 92nd. ćAnother Manās Done Goneä, also solo, dedicated to John Lennon. NB the Burns didnāt make it to Ireland, which was a shame. On, and (sorry) he did the ćTottenhamä bit in ćSexualityä again, which he confirmed after was indeed for me. Darren Hanlon wowed everyone again, of course. Incidentally when I make the Bragg comparisons, I am talking style, not content ö his stuff is very quirky, a la Dan Bern (a song about Eli Wallach, anyone ?). I assumed our Geoff here had connections with Darren as it was Geoff who put us on to the fact that Darren was supporting (not publicised anywhere else AFAIK ö cheers Geoff), and indeed Ītis so. ćGeoff ? From The Millstones ? Oh yeah, Īcourse I know him.ä Good to see Steve Andrews (another Brit long-time BB fan) there with his girlfriend and her friend. Steve now has the only poster in existence from the gig autographed by all of the band PLUS the man on the door· Negotiating the mile-long walk back to the place I was staying at 2:00 in the morning in amongst all the groups of drunk and or boisterous kids roaming around wasnāt the most fun of experiences, but I made it· Oh well, on to The Men They Couldnāt Hang and Kirsty MacColl at the Mean Fiddler tonight (itās OK, I wonāt post a review of this). Itās a tough job, but someoneās got to do it·
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
Belfast, Ireland - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 11:34:53 (GMT)

Don't recall where I was when John Lennon was shot, or if I was too upset, probably not, but it's sad that apart from the tunes he left behind, and any accomplishments he may have made, that he's not around to smack the sneer from Liam Gallaghers head.
Jon
Bristol, UK - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 11:02:01 (GMT)

Memo to self: take email addresses with you next time you go away. Anyway, a quick one for Carsten before I compose my Derry post: I'm back in Belfast for a few hours before flying to London. Will try to get your number via another source as you suggest.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
Belfast, Ireland - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 10:47:55 (GMT)

I hope Bill has 'ten million' in the bank, who should decide what price art.In fact Bill, why not put your prices up, that way you can afford to tour Australia/Brisbane more often and less whingers will come to see you..now dont you start geoff(did you get my earlier message geoff)..thanks Corinna
steve <johnquays@optusnet.com.au>
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 08:33:54 (GMT)

Chris, have a good trip mate, and if you get time go the 20 miles north east pof inverness to the village of Cromarty on the black isle peninsula...my ancestral home and the hotel on the front is run by an aussie and makes the best black pudding anywhere
steve
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 08:14:19 (GMT)

Hiya Northern Teen, Im a life long sunderland fan and with one defeat in 15 the boro are up against it today at the wonderful stadium of light although I think you might get a win...anyway its about time you won?...(:)..how is Billy Botts by the way.....on another note the whisky priests come from easington the same place Billy Elliot was filmed..good enough reason to rush out and buy some wp..why doesnt brian robson never smile??
steve
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 08:12:24 (GMT)

could someone please tell me what song billy played when he was on the craig kilborn show, the one when kevin "hercules" sorbo was also on. thanks
rob <big_puncit@hotmail.com>
L.A., USA - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 04:21:14 (GMT)

I know this is getting way OT, but I have to advise the Bragg Office that that wasn't James Earl Jones on "Bear in the Big Blue House" but Geoffrey Holder (who you remember as Baron Samedi in "Live And Let Die" - yes you do:- http://jamesbond007.net/hmtl/baron.html ).
Boguespierre <Don't worry Toby, I spend much of my time watching little kids' TV too...>
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 02:25:35 (GMT)

Hey BBgb, I leave Australia tomorrow for London and eventually Culloden. Maybe catch up soon Pete C.
Chris <chrisgabbett@hotmail.com>
BNE, Australia - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 01:53:33 (GMT)

Sorry, that should have read "I do NOT follow all Billy Bragg news avidly etc etc..." Please forgive my lack of concentration, and my ignorance. On a lighter note ... Sunderland versus Middlesbrough tomorrow at the Stadium of Sh*te, and I've got meself a ticket!!! I'm so excited!!! Not a real derby? My arse! Come on Boro!
Northern Teen
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 01:40:34 (GMT)

Rightio. I must admit I'm follow all Billy Bragg news avidly, so this might be a stupid question ... but about Millenium Song? What the hell is it? Has he recorded it yet...I can't find it on napster...
Northern Teen
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 01:37:22 (GMT)

good one jeff.....www.whiskypriests.co.uk....Im listenint to The row between the cages, and the words are brilliant..
steve
- Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 01:11:30 (GMT)

I'd like to chime in on all the endorsements of the Whisky Priests. This is one damn good band. Nee Good Luck is great, but I also like "The First Few Drops", which is a collection of demos, singles, and early stuff. Theres a song on that one,"The Hard Men" which is really good..especially the last verse, which is a real turnabout from what you might've been expecting. This is (was?) a very good band.
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 00:44:49 (GMT)

yeah, I remember John Lennons death...I was in college then...a vigil at the student union....
Jeff <dwellej@aol.com>
Dayton, OH, USA - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 00:22:54 (GMT)

Do you remember where you were when you heard John Lennon was dead twenty years ago today? - Thought you would. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_1060000/1060306.stm
Carsten <nonotyoupetew>
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 22:40:02 (GMT)

Donald: at Edinburgh gig, Tuesday, who had to leave early for train..No, unfortunately Billy didn't play Tank Park Salute after all.. Some other lines I would like to hear live: "I never made the first team, I just made the first team laugh" / " .. with your tights around your ankles.." / "..and he scores goals on a Saturday, and saves souls on a Sunday.."/ "..and put a hole in her body where no hole should be.." / "..he'd have told me if he cared.." Pop quiz: where did Billy do part of his set using Johnny Marr's quitar and amp, and why? (If you were there, and can remember the date and the weather that day, I'm fucked...). See ya. Some lines I would like to hear live: "
Lee
Edinburgh, Scotland - Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:55:07 (GMT)

Jon: No.
Dickie
(Not) Billericay, UK - Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:40:29 (GMT)

Bob: If Bush really won Florida, then he shouldn't mind a hand recount of the vote.
Carol
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:22:58 (GMT)

and we're gonna count every ballot. thank god for the florida surpreme court.
keri
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:20:28 (GMT)

I intend to prove that a whole lotta people intended to vote for me. Thank you, Florida Supreme Court!
President Gore
Washington, D.C., USA - Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:18:00 (GMT)

Susan: I'm sad to hear that you won't be able to attend the Dan Bern gig in Santa Cruz. But my mate John will be there taping the show, so if you're ever interested in hearing it, let me know. The song you heard on the radio was "Kids Prayer". It's one of Dan's weaker songs, in my opinion, but it got some airplay in the wake of the Columbine school shootings. The lyrics are online at http://www.cc.utah.edu/~jp36/kids%27%20prayer.html. If you'd like to hear some of his songs in MP3 format, visit ftp://24.9.172.94/.
Luther Gaylord
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:10:02 (GMT)

Kylie? Sorry mate, I'm married, but thanks for the offer. Phil Collins, I wouldn't utilise his carcass for my comfort break if he were experiancing spontanious combustion!
Jon
Bristol, UK - Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:04:32 (GMT)

buy a phil collins last album that will give you something to really whinge about..Bill has and still ius a shning beacon in a business full of primma donna's and greedy wankers, go Bill go
steve
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 21:01:50 (GMT)

good one Jon, however whingers dont see that they only hear this voice inside there own head whining on and on....mmmhow about Kylie Minogue??..(:)
steve
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 20:59:38 (GMT)

PeteW, you young bugger, dont miss this at Newcastle arts centre, with the marvellous Keith Armstrong, Id even consider coming over for this gig, even though it will be full of students...(:) JANUARY - 2001 07 - GERMANY, BERLIN, Pfefferberg. (**) (tbc) 20/21CANARY ISLANDS, PLAYA DEL INGELS, Festival. 27 - ENGLAND, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, Arts Centre. (Gary & Glenn duo gig with Keith Armstrong) Email: keitharmstrongnv@virgin.net Tel: 0191 2529531 / 0191 2324225
steve
- Friday, December 08, 2000 at 20:57:14 (GMT)

Bill is a member of the 'Music Industry', but unlike many, if not all of his contempories he was the one putting the Pay No More Than stickers on his products. If he was interested in making wheelbarrows full of cash, he's have been selling double glazing or loft insulation or joined Amway instead of supporting striking miners, journalists and Nicaraguan Solidarity. , can anyone here name anyone that started out at the same time
Jon
Bristol, UK - Friday, December 08, 2000 at 20:54:33 (GMT)

Paul, Im really envious that you've seen the Whisky Priests so many times, I know they are massive elsewhere in Europe, a great band from Easington, Co Durham...'They are as unique as a band who are truly unique can be - you'll never see another live band to touch them.' - Manchester Evening News .......The year 2000 sees Gary and Glenn Miller celebrate their 15th Anniversary as The Whisky Priests, and marks the birth of their new project, Mad Dogs and Englishmen, an acoustic trio, which also features Joseph Porter of Blyth Power....their website is at.... http://www.whiskypriests.co.uk/...I have to disagree paul, bloody well live is awesome, even just for farewell johnny miner the ed pickford song and land of the dinosaur a song about Sunderland..Pete C...check em out quick!!.I wonder if that 50 While you are mentioning football we do of course want to see Billy wearing a Brentford FC shirt in view of the fact that we and the gig at the Barbican tomorrow are sponsored by GMB - I shall be wearing my shirt with pride (after seeing us play v Wigan tomorrow first). Billy - if you read this stuff and don't have a shirt please contact Peter Gilham at Brentford FC who I am sure will be able to assist with provision of a shirt. UP THE BEES!
Stuardo
- Friday, December 01, 2000 at 10:00:30 (GMT)

Anyone know who is opening up for Billy at the Barbican ?
Rocky Shades
Evesham, - Friday, December 01, 2000 at 09:57:33 (GMT)

Nkosi - I should add, before anyone tells me, that I am well aware that Cor Cochion Caerdydd / Cardiff Reds' Choir do a version of this (indeed, I've got it), but it was more a version sung by an African choir that I was after. I'd thoroughly recommend CCC's "best of" CD, btw. Fantastic stuff. And not only does it have the best cover art *ever*, but Billy Bragg sings with them on "Mandela". http://www.cardiff-reds-choir.org.uk/
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, England - Friday, December 01, 2000 at 09:48:32 (GMT)

Did you all know that Billy is more of a goatherd then most people?
Barbara <anamazingfactigotfrombeingonthedysfunctionale-maillist>
seeyouallmonday, KISSbillyforMEplease - Friday, December 01, 2000 at 08:10:00 (GMT)

say hello to my sister at the bristol gig she is 5ft 4 with blond hair
steve
- Friday, December 01, 2000 at 07:04:55 (GMT)

blinkered michael thanks for confirming your a twat
steve
- Friday, December 01, 2000 at 07:03:22 (GMT)