The duck is going on holiday for a while. If anyone actually cares about the blog stopping for six weeks or so, let me know by e-mail or on the LSN Forums and I may keep going. I don't really have the time at the moment and especially won't in November, and it isn't as if anyone reads or even knows about the blog. I will be back though.
Quack!
20 October 2004
12 October 2004
Back Again
Sorry for the break, I was away for the weekend.
Alliance
Finally match five is out of the way with Anaraknaphobia beating old timers The Grunts On The Edge by 72 to 45.
In division two, ABC pulled back from behind to beat the Clowns 73 to 56 and in a three game match, the Rock 'N' Roll Suicides overcame old division one rivals The Dragons by 49 to 24 thrusting them back up toward the promotion spots again.
Fifty matches outstanding until the end of the season.
Belts
Another retirement with Hero Boy beating Ian Sturrock in the Speed Belt and taking his six wins.
worot03 claimed the HQ belt in a tussle with Strontium Dog. Old whiskas added a second defence of the Ring Of Fire while Valar Morghulis adds a third on the survivors belt. Big winners Killjoy and Hero Boy continued their marches onward in the Guerilla Medal Challenge and the Cuisine Challenge respectively.
Alliance
Finally match five is out of the way with Anaraknaphobia beating old timers The Grunts On The Edge by 72 to 45.
In division two, ABC pulled back from behind to beat the Clowns 73 to 56 and in a three game match, the Rock 'N' Roll Suicides overcame old division one rivals The Dragons by 49 to 24 thrusting them back up toward the promotion spots again.
Fifty matches outstanding until the end of the season.
Belts
Another retirement with Hero Boy beating Ian Sturrock in the Speed Belt and taking his six wins.
worot03 claimed the HQ belt in a tussle with Strontium Dog. Old whiskas added a second defence of the Ring Of Fire while Valar Morghulis adds a third on the survivors belt. Big winners Killjoy and Hero Boy continued their marches onward in the Guerilla Medal Challenge and the Cuisine Challenge respectively.
07 October 2004
Busy Bee
Lots of results for me to catch with, so straight to it.
Alliance
The big news first, Brootal and thegoblin have been appointed to the admin team to help things run smoothly. Brootal will take over divison two and gobbo is the new Alliance development officer. More information is promised on that soon, but the duck suspects lots of prodding of the community.
In division one there have been wins for the 99ers over the Worms (59-44) and for Rouge Element over ICF (76-34). This puts RE back on the top of the division, a clear sixty points seperating them from current champions tFC.
Rouge Element have also wrested the King of the Clans belt from Dragons Rising, winning 55 to 49. Next they will have to fend off Anaraknaphobia, the big boys are really mixing it up at the moment.
Belts
In other belt news, Old Whiskas has retired with six defences of the Featherweight belt and Bobbajob has stepped down after his sixth victory in the Panzer belt. Hero Boy has declined to retire from the Speed Belt, beating Koxvold and now facing Ian Sturrock.
Paleblackness captured the title of King of the Mechs from Old Whiskas and then swiftly conducted his first defence against Laserdave. Another belt capture saw Arakis taking the wonderful duck belt from Buliwyf Hrothgar.
Other Competitions
The Mech Team League Finals have started with SpaceDog and Android Barker facing GuiltyCol and paleblackness.
In the LSNCup, justlanded beat Sterner Than Regnix in their quarter final and will now face GuiltyCol.
Alliance
The big news first, Brootal and thegoblin have been appointed to the admin team to help things run smoothly. Brootal will take over divison two and gobbo is the new Alliance development officer. More information is promised on that soon, but the duck suspects lots of prodding of the community.
In division one there have been wins for the 99ers over the Worms (59-44) and for Rouge Element over ICF (76-34). This puts RE back on the top of the division, a clear sixty points seperating them from current champions tFC.
Rouge Element have also wrested the King of the Clans belt from Dragons Rising, winning 55 to 49. Next they will have to fend off Anaraknaphobia, the big boys are really mixing it up at the moment.
Belts
In other belt news, Old Whiskas has retired with six defences of the Featherweight belt and Bobbajob has stepped down after his sixth victory in the Panzer belt. Hero Boy has declined to retire from the Speed Belt, beating Koxvold and now facing Ian Sturrock.
Paleblackness captured the title of King of the Mechs from Old Whiskas and then swiftly conducted his first defence against Laserdave. Another belt capture saw Arakis taking the wonderful duck belt from Buliwyf Hrothgar.
Other Competitions
The Mech Team League Finals have started with SpaceDog and Android Barker facing GuiltyCol and paleblackness.
In the LSNCup, justlanded beat Sterner Than Regnix in their quarter final and will now face GuiltyCol.
02 October 2004
Confuzzled
Well, I was going to report on some of the other competitions that I have as yet not commented on. The three or so that I looked at confused me though, so I shan't tonight as I am tired and my brain aches.
Three Alliance results tonight. After some admin clean-up, ICF vs the Crimson Scales has finally finished, with the Fists winning what was ultimately a three game match by 48 points to 40. This gives them their first win of the season and aids the hunt for division one survival.
In a clash of the titans, tFC showed Anaraknaphobia how to be champions, pulling a 56 to 22 win out of the hat. A big margin on low scores; this had the look of some well discussed team strategy from tFC, with two games that may have been deliberate shut outs (a 0-0 and a 2-0). tFC again show that it isn't just about LSN itself.
The final result is from divsion two, with sudden risers the Cursed Clowns beating the struggling Hippo Squirrels by a convincing 68 to 37.
Quack!
Three Alliance results tonight. After some admin clean-up, ICF vs the Crimson Scales has finally finished, with the Fists winning what was ultimately a three game match by 48 points to 40. This gives them their first win of the season and aids the hunt for division one survival.
In a clash of the titans, tFC showed Anaraknaphobia how to be champions, pulling a 56 to 22 win out of the hat. A big margin on low scores; this had the look of some well discussed team strategy from tFC, with two games that may have been deliberate shut outs (a 0-0 and a 2-0). tFC again show that it isn't just about LSN itself.
The final result is from divsion two, with sudden risers the Cursed Clowns beating the struggling Hippo Squirrels by a convincing 68 to 37.
Quack!
01 October 2004
It Worked
Hurrah, the fancy feed toy worked perfectly.
Lots of shy retiring types in the belts today; Old Whiskas is stepping down after six defences of the Featherwight belt and Bobbajob is taking his six Panzer Belt victories and running. Killjoy has decided to carry on after his six Guerilla Medal challenge wins and see if he can reach the twelve.
Over the next few days I shall try and catch up with some of the other competitions that I haven't mentioned as of yet.
Lots of shy retiring types in the belts today; Old Whiskas is stepping down after six defences of the Featherwight belt and Bobbajob is taking his six Panzer Belt victories and running. Killjoy has decided to carry on after his six Guerilla Medal challenge wins and see if he can reach the twelve.
Over the next few days I shall try and catch up with some of the other competitions that I haven't mentioned as of yet.
30 September 2004
Atomic Duck
Well, for my very first post since I switch on the fancy Atom feed toy we have one result, DocBenway beating TOMU in the Missile Belt to take his run of defences to three; we also have an advert for a situation vacant, Quick Ben is taking more of a back seat in Alliance and the admins are looking for new blood to strengthen the team. Applications on the Alliance fourm
Here goes with the posting.
Here goes with the posting.
28 September 2004
Sleepy Hollow
Not so much going on in the competitions these last few days, some odd Alliance games but no matches and only a handful of belt news.
Old Whiskas fought off Kendo for his first defence of the King of the Mechs belt and Buliwyf Hrothgar for Ring of Fire. Killjoy is considering retiring from the Guerilla Medal Challenge after his victory over LaserDave gave him his sixth defence. Hero Boy continued his run in the Speed Belt, beating Oddball for his fifth defence. It wasn't a good few days for Buliwyf Hrothgar as DocBenway beat him in the Missile Belt. The sole capture of a belt was acheived by Barcardi Bat, beating holder Pickupsticks in the Highlander Belt.
Old Whiskas fought off Kendo for his first defence of the King of the Mechs belt and Buliwyf Hrothgar for Ring of Fire. Killjoy is considering retiring from the Guerilla Medal Challenge after his victory over LaserDave gave him his sixth defence. Hero Boy continued his run in the Speed Belt, beating Oddball for his fifth defence. It wasn't a good few days for Buliwyf Hrothgar as DocBenway beat him in the Missile Belt. The sole capture of a belt was acheived by Barcardi Bat, beating holder Pickupsticks in the Highlander Belt.
24 September 2004
Too Old To Rock 'N' Roll, Too Young To Die
Alliance
Lots of matchs finished today, mostly in division two though, surprise surprise. The sole result from division one say Dragons Rising stamp their authority over the middle of the table, thrashing the 8-bits 83-33.
In the business part of the competition, it hasn't been looking good for RNRS, losing by 66 to 69 and 44 to 83 to Doomed and Alone In The Dark respectively. Both results are good for the winning clans, helping boost their promotion claims. Other results include a massive 91 to 41 victory for the A.B.C. Warriors over the Bouncing Krauts and a solid 78 to 53 win for the struggling Clowns over Pheonix Rising. Maybe the news about Redeem's return gave their spirits a lift.
Belts
Four games finished in the belts with Old Whiskas defending the Featherweight Belt, Hero Boy the Cuisine Challenge and Bobbajob the Panzer Belt. Kaleb dethroned Old Whiskas from the Marine belt however.
Lots of matchs finished today, mostly in division two though, surprise surprise. The sole result from division one say Dragons Rising stamp their authority over the middle of the table, thrashing the 8-bits 83-33.
In the business part of the competition, it hasn't been looking good for RNRS, losing by 66 to 69 and 44 to 83 to Doomed and Alone In The Dark respectively. Both results are good for the winning clans, helping boost their promotion claims. Other results include a massive 91 to 41 victory for the A.B.C. Warriors over the Bouncing Krauts and a solid 78 to 53 win for the struggling Clowns over Pheonix Rising. Maybe the news about Redeem's return gave their spirits a lift.
Belts
Four games finished in the belts with Old Whiskas defending the Featherweight Belt, Hero Boy the Cuisine Challenge and Bobbajob the Panzer Belt. Kaleb dethroned Old Whiskas from the Marine belt however.
23 September 2004
Belt Up
Well, a busy few days in competition world.
Alliance first then. Four match results are in, three in division two but first an important result from division one with Rogue Element kicking The Dragons Rising by 83 points to 59. This boosts RE's claim to a top three place and knocks back DR in their hunt for beating tFC to the top.
The (original) Dragons had mixed fortunes, losing to Alone In The Dark by a bug 97 to 52 but beating pre-season ex-favourites Doomed in a knuckle chewing 68-64 finish with mcspenny winning the last game to come in beating Indricotherium 20 to 9. In another tight match, the Bouncing Krauts squeezed out Pheonix Rising by 59 points to 56.
Personnel news next, Redeem has threatened, I mean suggested that he may come out of retirement for Alliance Season Six in order to cripple, I mean boost his (second) clan, The Cursed Clowns. Redeem has been otherwise busy as well, planning two new competitions, LSNDefcon 1, a four way team kncok-out between the four races (http://p069.ezboard.com/fcodogamesfrm18.showMessage?topicID=163.topic) and A Ryder Cup style UK vs Rest Of The World face off (http://p069.ezboard.com/fcodogamesfrm18.showMessage?topicID=164.topic).
The second official Laser Bowl tournement has finished, with axemandavva being beaten in the final by Dragons hero mcspenny. The champion had beaten mordin, Overseer, McMendes, Special K, Dysp, Ecthelion De La Fuente, Infidel and finally axemandavva on the way to the title, some impressive scalps.
In other cup news, the LSN Cup is reaching a climax. GuiltyCol is in the first semi-final, his opponent will be either justlanded or Sterner Than Regnix. The second semi-final will be Vasco against Craigwave or DeadDog. Some matches worth watching there. The duck fancies Vasco for it.
The belts then. As this is the first update, a list of current holders and challengers:
Belt Holder Defences Challenger
Featherweight Old Whiskas 4 IuDa
Golden Egg Old Whiskas 4 SternerThanRegnix
Heavyweight Vasco 3 Zemalf
King of the Mechs Old Whiskas 0 Kendo
Marine Old Whiskas 0 Kaleb
Medic
Ring of Fire Old Whiskas 0 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Survivors Valar Morghulis 2 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Guerilla Medal Killjoy 6 laserdave
Speed Hero Boy 4 Oddball
Duck Buliwyf Hrothgar 0 Arakis
HQ worto03 Strontium Dog
Leader of the Greys zipdisk 2 Barcardi Bat 151
Flying Hairdryer Barcardi Bat 151 1 Dahnak
Cuisine Challenge Hero Boy 2 Valar Morghulis
Panzer Bobbajob 4 AidanPryde
Solar Power pickupsticks 4 tonyj444
Missile Doctor Benway 1 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Highlander pickupsticks Barcardi Bat 151
As you'll note, Old Whiskas holds five belts at the moment, looking to challenge Vasco possibly (who made eighteen defences of the Golden Egg, six of the Ring of Fire and six of the Speed Belt). Old Whiskas is contemplating his retirement soon though, so will he have time to make up the ground?<>Phileas Fogg Map Tour, Killjoy has recently beaten Hintikka, brining a great run of victories to an end.
Alliance first then. Four match results are in, three in division two but first an important result from division one with Rogue Element kicking The Dragons Rising by 83 points to 59. This boosts RE's claim to a top three place and knocks back DR in their hunt for beating tFC to the top.
The (original) Dragons had mixed fortunes, losing to Alone In The Dark by a bug 97 to 52 but beating pre-season ex-favourites Doomed in a knuckle chewing 68-64 finish with mcspenny winning the last game to come in beating Indricotherium 20 to 9. In another tight match, the Bouncing Krauts squeezed out Pheonix Rising by 59 points to 56.
Personnel news next, Redeem has threatened, I mean suggested that he may come out of retirement for Alliance Season Six in order to cripple, I mean boost his (second) clan, The Cursed Clowns. Redeem has been otherwise busy as well, planning two new competitions, LSNDefcon 1, a four way team kncok-out between the four races (http://p069.ezboard.com/fcodogamesfrm18.showMessage?topicID=163.topic) and A Ryder Cup style UK vs Rest Of The World face off (http://p069.ezboard.com/fcodogamesfrm18.showMessage?topicID=164.topic).
The second official Laser Bowl tournement has finished, with axemandavva being beaten in the final by Dragons hero mcspenny. The champion had beaten mordin, Overseer, McMendes, Special K, Dysp, Ecthelion De La Fuente, Infidel and finally axemandavva on the way to the title, some impressive scalps.
In other cup news, the LSN Cup is reaching a climax. GuiltyCol is in the first semi-final, his opponent will be either justlanded or Sterner Than Regnix. The second semi-final will be Vasco against Craigwave or DeadDog. Some matches worth watching there. The duck fancies Vasco for it.
The belts then. As this is the first update, a list of current holders and challengers:
Belt Holder Defences Challenger
Featherweight Old Whiskas 4 IuDa
Golden Egg Old Whiskas 4 SternerThanRegnix
Heavyweight Vasco 3 Zemalf
King of the Mechs Old Whiskas 0 Kendo
Marine Old Whiskas 0 Kaleb
Medic
Ring of Fire Old Whiskas 0 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Survivors Valar Morghulis 2 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Guerilla Medal Killjoy 6 laserdave
Speed Hero Boy 4 Oddball
Duck Buliwyf Hrothgar 0 Arakis
HQ worto03 Strontium Dog
Leader of the Greys zipdisk 2 Barcardi Bat 151
Flying Hairdryer Barcardi Bat 151 1 Dahnak
Cuisine Challenge Hero Boy 2 Valar Morghulis
Panzer Bobbajob 4 AidanPryde
Solar Power pickupsticks 4 tonyj444
Missile Doctor Benway 1 Buliwyf Hrothgar
Highlander pickupsticks Barcardi Bat 151
As you'll note, Old Whiskas holds five belts at the moment, looking to challenge Vasco possibly (who made eighteen defences of the Golden Egg, six of the Ring of Fire and six of the Speed Belt). Old Whiskas is contemplating his retirement soon though, so will he have time to make up the ground?<>Phileas Fogg Map Tour, Killjoy has recently beaten Hintikka, brining a great run of victories to an end.
13 September 2004
You Got A Smoke?
Black Moon - Emerson, Lake And Palmer
Black Moon was the last studio album released by ELP coming at the end of a long period during the eighties and nineties which saw three albums (one of which was from Emerson, Lake and (Cozy) Powell) released. Since Black Moon there has been the endless rumour treadmill of further reformations and releases, but isn't there always?
As a last album release, this is quite a one. Ten tracks with the standard ELP mix of song types and a slightly non-standard ELP sense of unity. This album has a definite sound and feel and it pervades all of the various output, the full group compositions, the Lake ballads, the classical arrangements and the Emerson output. This is something that wasn't always there in classic ELP albums in my opinion, with the possible exception of Trilogy (and Pictures of course, but that doesn't really count).
The sound itself is again different from classic ELP, it is quite hard edged, mostly very tight and almost lyrically depressing at times although that is more a comment on the differing times of writing I suspect.
One thing that is notably subdued is Keith Emerson's usual virtuosity. There aren't many points where he really lets himself go, some may claim age and he was having some medical issues with his hands around this point, but having seen him live toward the end of 2003 he got over it. But I digress, to be honest you don't really notice, in some ways it is even a good thing, the overall sound is much more unified at times which aids the format of shorter tracks. Emerson's slightly slower and more controlled style always adds to the harsher edge of the album, although in some tracks he still plays as openly and warmly as we are all used to.
Lake and Palmer shine in this album. Carl Palmer is as varied and adaptable as ever, moving around his kit as the atmosphere of tracks requires and going for his synth drums as much as ever. Greg Lake's guitar work is still nothing special, but who cares about that. His voice has dropped even further and he sounds utterly lovely. Definitely someone you would want to be singing your bedtime lullaby.
The individual tracks are well formed. Of the group tracks, Black Moon and Paper Blood shine through, but all are strong. The two Greg Lake ballads are fairly standard fare, but with the added bonus that the lyrics are good, Close To Home stills shows what a great pianist Emerson is, even when not at top speed. I always used to think that the arrangement of Romeo and Juliet was incredibly heavy handed and clunky, but more recently I heard the original again and realised that Prokofiev was possibly even more heavy handed and clunky himself. Still a corking arrangement.
Overall, one of my favourite ELP albums. Some fans may find the tightness of the tracks, the more moody feel and the relatively subdued nature of Keith Emerson's playing detracts from it. This isn't classis ELP, but I like the slightly different side to the music. Did I mention how gorgeous Greg Lake sounds?
Recommended to:
ELP fans.
Greg Lake groupies.
People looking for a very talented keyboard playing without too much prog rock pomposity.
Those who love a wonderful baritone singing voice.
Not recommended to:
People who think post-Tarkus ELP is heresy.
Those who consider 'arrange' to be a dirty word.
Anyone who can't appreciate the male voice at its lovely best.
Black Moon was the last studio album released by ELP coming at the end of a long period during the eighties and nineties which saw three albums (one of which was from Emerson, Lake and (Cozy) Powell) released. Since Black Moon there has been the endless rumour treadmill of further reformations and releases, but isn't there always?
As a last album release, this is quite a one. Ten tracks with the standard ELP mix of song types and a slightly non-standard ELP sense of unity. This album has a definite sound and feel and it pervades all of the various output, the full group compositions, the Lake ballads, the classical arrangements and the Emerson output. This is something that wasn't always there in classic ELP albums in my opinion, with the possible exception of Trilogy (and Pictures of course, but that doesn't really count).
The sound itself is again different from classic ELP, it is quite hard edged, mostly very tight and almost lyrically depressing at times although that is more a comment on the differing times of writing I suspect.
One thing that is notably subdued is Keith Emerson's usual virtuosity. There aren't many points where he really lets himself go, some may claim age and he was having some medical issues with his hands around this point, but having seen him live toward the end of 2003 he got over it. But I digress, to be honest you don't really notice, in some ways it is even a good thing, the overall sound is much more unified at times which aids the format of shorter tracks. Emerson's slightly slower and more controlled style always adds to the harsher edge of the album, although in some tracks he still plays as openly and warmly as we are all used to.
Lake and Palmer shine in this album. Carl Palmer is as varied and adaptable as ever, moving around his kit as the atmosphere of tracks requires and going for his synth drums as much as ever. Greg Lake's guitar work is still nothing special, but who cares about that. His voice has dropped even further and he sounds utterly lovely. Definitely someone you would want to be singing your bedtime lullaby.
The individual tracks are well formed. Of the group tracks, Black Moon and Paper Blood shine through, but all are strong. The two Greg Lake ballads are fairly standard fare, but with the added bonus that the lyrics are good, Close To Home stills shows what a great pianist Emerson is, even when not at top speed. I always used to think that the arrangement of Romeo and Juliet was incredibly heavy handed and clunky, but more recently I heard the original again and realised that Prokofiev was possibly even more heavy handed and clunky himself. Still a corking arrangement.
Overall, one of my favourite ELP albums. Some fans may find the tightness of the tracks, the more moody feel and the relatively subdued nature of Keith Emerson's playing detracts from it. This isn't classis ELP, but I like the slightly different side to the music. Did I mention how gorgeous Greg Lake sounds?
Recommended to:
ELP fans.
Greg Lake groupies.
People looking for a very talented keyboard playing without too much prog rock pomposity.
Those who love a wonderful baritone singing voice.
Not recommended to:
People who think post-Tarkus ELP is heresy.
Those who consider 'arrange' to be a dirty word.
Anyone who can't appreciate the male voice at its lovely best.
09 September 2004
Tired
Tyr - Black Sabbath
A Sabbath album from the eighties, long past the time of Ozzy Osbourne. Two Toni's head things up, the ever present Iommi on guitar and Martin on lead vocals. With Neil Murray on bass and Cozy Powell behind the drums, this was a line-up with much experience in the heavy rock scene and it offers a bit more than some of the varying Sabbath line-ups that marked the albums following Ronnie James Dio's exit at the start of the eighties.
The tracks are all solid affairs, all showing off Iommi's great skills as a player of hard riffs. There are some classic lines on this album that match his output from the height of the original Sabbath. The rhythm section is competent and Tony Martin comes through as one of the most able of the singers the group employed.
The music itself is good, with a hard edge that will be welcome to those who prefer Master of Reality and Mob Rules to Technical Ecstasy. Sometimes the tracks seem to lack a little energy and enthusiasm, but I think that this was a symptom of eighties rock in general. The latter half of the album does pick up in pace though.
Overall, a good mix of classic Iommi guitar work with eighties style heavy rock. In my mind the pick of Sabbath albums from that era, and a good one in the overall canon although the occasional lack of energy prevents it from being a true classic.
Recommended to:
Sabbath/Iommi fans
Eighties heavy rock lovers
Those looking for a little edge to their music, but retaining intelligibility
Not recommended to:
High octane bouncy slam pitters
Those who despise rock giants (or dinosaurs as they like to say)
Ozzy purists
A Sabbath album from the eighties, long past the time of Ozzy Osbourne. Two Toni's head things up, the ever present Iommi on guitar and Martin on lead vocals. With Neil Murray on bass and Cozy Powell behind the drums, this was a line-up with much experience in the heavy rock scene and it offers a bit more than some of the varying Sabbath line-ups that marked the albums following Ronnie James Dio's exit at the start of the eighties.
The tracks are all solid affairs, all showing off Iommi's great skills as a player of hard riffs. There are some classic lines on this album that match his output from the height of the original Sabbath. The rhythm section is competent and Tony Martin comes through as one of the most able of the singers the group employed.
The music itself is good, with a hard edge that will be welcome to those who prefer Master of Reality and Mob Rules to Technical Ecstasy. Sometimes the tracks seem to lack a little energy and enthusiasm, but I think that this was a symptom of eighties rock in general. The latter half of the album does pick up in pace though.
Overall, a good mix of classic Iommi guitar work with eighties style heavy rock. In my mind the pick of Sabbath albums from that era, and a good one in the overall canon although the occasional lack of energy prevents it from being a true classic.
Recommended to:
Sabbath/Iommi fans
Eighties heavy rock lovers
Those looking for a little edge to their music, but retaining intelligibility
Not recommended to:
High octane bouncy slam pitters
Those who despise rock giants (or dinosaurs as they like to say)
Ozzy purists
05 September 2004
A Result
Laser Squad Nemesis
A result for the duck, with his Marines crushing attacking Spawn 30 to 5 in a twenty five point game on Reclamation. The days of the Spawn rush destroying Marines are gone. A well orchestrated defense with forward grenadiers and concentrated support fire seems to do well.
Spawn players need to be aware of the lessons this gives. Firstly, randomly throwing drones and buzzers in, unless they are in overwhelming numbers, will no longer work. They need to be well co-orindated, especially with supporting goo and spikers.
Spikers are very useful against Marines. If they can get an avenue of fire toward an HQ, not only can they deny ammunition, but the explosion will cause damaged marines to scurry around for a few turns as they try te reset their defense and patch up. Try to keep your Spikers out of range of grenades though, my opponent let me get close enough with the bouncing bombs of death to work away at his beasties. That sort of range will nullify grunts effectiveness as well, their speed of fire makes them a danger to Spikers at close range. Snipers can be avoided, but Commanders are dangerous.
Don't be afraid to throw Queens in as an Imperial Guard of sorts, but they are very useful when recycling, especially if you have kept your spikers and goo spitters back from the action and their corpses in fairly safe positions.
Of course, this only really applies to fighting defensive marines, the counter-attacking variety are a different thing altogether.
A result for the duck, with his Marines crushing attacking Spawn 30 to 5 in a twenty five point game on Reclamation. The days of the Spawn rush destroying Marines are gone. A well orchestrated defense with forward grenadiers and concentrated support fire seems to do well.
Spawn players need to be aware of the lessons this gives. Firstly, randomly throwing drones and buzzers in, unless they are in overwhelming numbers, will no longer work. They need to be well co-orindated, especially with supporting goo and spikers.
Spikers are very useful against Marines. If they can get an avenue of fire toward an HQ, not only can they deny ammunition, but the explosion will cause damaged marines to scurry around for a few turns as they try te reset their defense and patch up. Try to keep your Spikers out of range of grenades though, my opponent let me get close enough with the bouncing bombs of death to work away at his beasties. That sort of range will nullify grunts effectiveness as well, their speed of fire makes them a danger to Spikers at close range. Snipers can be avoided, but Commanders are dangerous.
Don't be afraid to throw Queens in as an Imperial Guard of sorts, but they are very useful when recycling, especially if you have kept your spikers and goo spitters back from the action and their corpses in fairly safe positions.
Of course, this only really applies to fighting defensive marines, the counter-attacking variety are a different thing altogether.
I'll Be Back Before It Is Time For Sunny Down
Laser Squad Nemesis
Time is pressing on in the Alliance league, most clans have now completed four or five matches and the fighting is now becoming grim. Time for a round up of events so far.
Division One
The main news has to be the folding of Alice's Mighty Dischord. With three players dropping out, the clan unfortunately had to be dropped from the league. A shame to see another old team go.
Rogue Element have again confounded the critics (including this one). They have been thrashing some well established clans are one of the four clans clear at the top of the division. The matches against their rivals are just coming up however, so they will need to carry forward their confidence.
The 8-bits have been doing well also, taking tFC right to the line in their match and only just missing out after some superb play from Headcase and good communication. tFC seem not to be suffering from the malaise in spirits that seemed in the air at the start of the season.
Which brings us to the title chase. tFC, Anaraknaphobia, The Dragons Rising and Rogue Element. tFC are still looking utterly dominant, even when pushed they manage a special escape. The duck still thinks they will retain the title. Despite Rogue Element's strong position, the other two contenders do still look that much stronger and have slightly easier runs to the end of the season which probably gives RE a strong and creditable fourth. Second and third will be close, but DR seem to have been winning by slightly bigger margins, so maybe they will edge second spot.
Demotions, assuming there will still be three, again look to be the domain of four clans. The Grunts and 8-bits look to be doin enough to survive, which leaves the Worms, 99ers, Crimson Scales and Invincible Crazy Fists. The duck feels confident that both the Worms and Scales will lose out, which brings it down to the 99ers experience against ICF's team spirit. With some player loss for ICF, I think the 99ers will survive, but like second spot, it is tough to call.
Time is pressing on in the Alliance league, most clans have now completed four or five matches and the fighting is now becoming grim. Time for a round up of events so far.
Division One
The main news has to be the folding of Alice's Mighty Dischord. With three players dropping out, the clan unfortunately had to be dropped from the league. A shame to see another old team go.
Rogue Element have again confounded the critics (including this one). They have been thrashing some well established clans are one of the four clans clear at the top of the division. The matches against their rivals are just coming up however, so they will need to carry forward their confidence.
The 8-bits have been doing well also, taking tFC right to the line in their match and only just missing out after some superb play from Headcase and good communication. tFC seem not to be suffering from the malaise in spirits that seemed in the air at the start of the season.
Which brings us to the title chase. tFC, Anaraknaphobia, The Dragons Rising and Rogue Element. tFC are still looking utterly dominant, even when pushed they manage a special escape. The duck still thinks they will retain the title. Despite Rogue Element's strong position, the other two contenders do still look that much stronger and have slightly easier runs to the end of the season which probably gives RE a strong and creditable fourth. Second and third will be close, but DR seem to have been winning by slightly bigger margins, so maybe they will edge second spot.
Demotions, assuming there will still be three, again look to be the domain of four clans. The Grunts and 8-bits look to be doin enough to survive, which leaves the Worms, 99ers, Crimson Scales and Invincible Crazy Fists. The duck feels confident that both the Worms and Scales will lose out, which brings it down to the 99ers experience against ICF's team spirit. With some player loss for ICF, I think the 99ers will survive, but like second spot, it is tough to call.
08 August 2004
I am not a number, I am a free man
Albums
90125 - Yes
The Yes Album - Yes
Fragile - Yes
Never Say Die - Black Sabbath
The Number Of The Beast - Iron Maiden
Sona Fariq - Sona Fariq
The Number Of The Beast - Iron Maiden
The first album with Bruce Dickinson at the microphone. Paul Di'Anno sang on Iron Maiden and Killers and I think it is fair to say he sang a fair bit better than Brucie could ever manage. However, Mr Dickinson has a certain charm of his own and added his own touch to the groups' sound and style.
The rest of the group, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith on guitars, Steve Harris on bass, Clive Burr on drums; are all on good form here. You don't expect vast levels of virtuosic talent from Maiden, and to be honest you don't get it. You do expect rock solid and fast riffs, plenty of crashing around on the drums and something that deserves a nice high volume and you get all of that in spadefuls. There is plenty of space in the sound for lots of bass work and that is a good thing, Harris is probably the most talented individual in the group and as well as playing some corking rock bass lines he writes a large proportion of the songs (or song, for the cynics among you).
Maybe it does get a bit repetitive for those not fully into the style, but it is great fun. A candidate for that one representative album of the genre. A couple of the classic popular Maiden tracks are here, number of the beast, run for the hills; but the album tracks are all top notch as well.
I don't have even a majority of Maiden albums, but this is one of my favourites of those I have heard. A great example of the new wave of British metal that hit the early eighties.
Recommended to:
-metal fans of all shades
-those looking for something fun, noisy and honest
-Patrick McGoohan aficionados
Not recommended to:
-people offended by references to the beast, whores and death and destruction
-those who cringe at the thought of three guitars being thrashed to within an inch of their lives
-anyone with a love for the pure tones of a choirboy
Laser Squad Nemesis
Time for a little analysis of Alliance results to date. Seeing as divsion one can't be bothered to finish their games I shall have a look at divsion two today.
The Brigantes and Bouncing Krauts have got away to corking to starts, perhaps a little unexpected, but looking at the league table, nothing seems certain at the moment. Doomed have only won one in three and even gobbo's crew are winning things. Even gobbo is winning things. The only conclusion that is easy to draw is that is nothing is certain.
Keep an eye on the Bouncing Krauts, they might go further than anyone (including this humble duck) predicted.
Other People's Mistakes
Eating too much chocolate. Bad for you, spoils it in the long run, bad for you.
90125 - Yes
The Yes Album - Yes
Fragile - Yes
Never Say Die - Black Sabbath
The Number Of The Beast - Iron Maiden
Sona Fariq - Sona Fariq
The Number Of The Beast - Iron Maiden
The first album with Bruce Dickinson at the microphone. Paul Di'Anno sang on Iron Maiden and Killers and I think it is fair to say he sang a fair bit better than Brucie could ever manage. However, Mr Dickinson has a certain charm of his own and added his own touch to the groups' sound and style.
The rest of the group, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith on guitars, Steve Harris on bass, Clive Burr on drums; are all on good form here. You don't expect vast levels of virtuosic talent from Maiden, and to be honest you don't get it. You do expect rock solid and fast riffs, plenty of crashing around on the drums and something that deserves a nice high volume and you get all of that in spadefuls. There is plenty of space in the sound for lots of bass work and that is a good thing, Harris is probably the most talented individual in the group and as well as playing some corking rock bass lines he writes a large proportion of the songs (or song, for the cynics among you).
Maybe it does get a bit repetitive for those not fully into the style, but it is great fun. A candidate for that one representative album of the genre. A couple of the classic popular Maiden tracks are here, number of the beast, run for the hills; but the album tracks are all top notch as well.
I don't have even a majority of Maiden albums, but this is one of my favourites of those I have heard. A great example of the new wave of British metal that hit the early eighties.
Recommended to:
-metal fans of all shades
-those looking for something fun, noisy and honest
-Patrick McGoohan aficionados
Not recommended to:
-people offended by references to the beast, whores and death and destruction
-those who cringe at the thought of three guitars being thrashed to within an inch of their lives
-anyone with a love for the pure tones of a choirboy
Laser Squad Nemesis
Time for a little analysis of Alliance results to date. Seeing as divsion one can't be bothered to finish their games I shall have a look at divsion two today.
The Brigantes and Bouncing Krauts have got away to corking to starts, perhaps a little unexpected, but looking at the league table, nothing seems certain at the moment. Doomed have only won one in three and even gobbo's crew are winning things. Even gobbo is winning things. The only conclusion that is easy to draw is that is nothing is certain.
Keep an eye on the Bouncing Krauts, they might go further than anyone (including this humble duck) predicted.
Other People's Mistakes
Eating too much chocolate. Bad for you, spoils it in the long run, bad for you.
31 July 2004
Stand Up
Albums
Skyscraper - David Lee Roth
Skyscraper - David Lee Roth
I originally purchased this album as a result of a discussion about Steve Vai. I have often come across people who think he is a top notch guitarist and as I hadn't really heard much of him, I asked someone to recommend an album on which he was at his best, and this one came up, rather handily it happened to be in an HMV sale at the time. David Lee Roth is probably better known as the front man of Van Halen, and on this album Vai plays the guitar parts.
The album itself is reasonably passable eighties rock, in the tradition of such groups as Whitesnake and I presume Van Halen as well. It isn't bad, some good tracks, some pretty poor ones and a Beach Boys cover as the opening song. I didn't really get the point of that, I suppose Roth just felt like singing a Beach Boys song. There is nothing spectacular, Roth doesn't seem to be the greatest vocalist in the world, but he isn't offensively bad, the artists who recorded with him seem to know their jobs.
Which brings us back to the original question, Steve Vai. I am not convinced I understand why people get so excited about him, but he is pretty good. Steady riff work, reasonably solos, a very good widdler, although on the basis of this album it may be his only trick. Reasonable, but not special. A bit like the album.
Recommended to:
-eighties rock fans
-David Lee Roth fans (probably)
-Steve Vai fanatics
Not recommended to:
-anyone with limited resources
-people who are offensive about Whitesnake and their peers
-those looking to escape averageness
Laser Squad Nemesis
So, the clans are analysed and that just leaves my final table predictions. This may not entirely tie up with my discussion of the clans, as clearly that was written over a protraced period and results are flooding in now (in division two at any rate). So:
Division One:
the Faceless Consortium
The Dragons Rising
Anaraknaphobia
99ers
8-bit Fanatics
Grunts On The Edge
Rogue Element
Invincible Crazy Fists
---
Crimson Scales
The Worms That Turned
Alice's Mighty Dischord
Division Two:
Doomed
Aftershock Reloaded
Bouncing Krauts
---
Rock N Roll Suicides
Phoenix Rising
Brigantes
Alone It The Dark
Disciples of Grammer
A.B.C. Warriors
Cursed Clowns
Hippo Squirrels
Other People's Mistakes
Eating cold food when you have a bad tooth.
Skyscraper - David Lee Roth
Skyscraper - David Lee Roth
I originally purchased this album as a result of a discussion about Steve Vai. I have often come across people who think he is a top notch guitarist and as I hadn't really heard much of him, I asked someone to recommend an album on which he was at his best, and this one came up, rather handily it happened to be in an HMV sale at the time. David Lee Roth is probably better known as the front man of Van Halen, and on this album Vai plays the guitar parts.
The album itself is reasonably passable eighties rock, in the tradition of such groups as Whitesnake and I presume Van Halen as well. It isn't bad, some good tracks, some pretty poor ones and a Beach Boys cover as the opening song. I didn't really get the point of that, I suppose Roth just felt like singing a Beach Boys song. There is nothing spectacular, Roth doesn't seem to be the greatest vocalist in the world, but he isn't offensively bad, the artists who recorded with him seem to know their jobs.
Which brings us back to the original question, Steve Vai. I am not convinced I understand why people get so excited about him, but he is pretty good. Steady riff work, reasonably solos, a very good widdler, although on the basis of this album it may be his only trick. Reasonable, but not special. A bit like the album.
Recommended to:
-eighties rock fans
-David Lee Roth fans (probably)
-Steve Vai fanatics
Not recommended to:
-anyone with limited resources
-people who are offensive about Whitesnake and their peers
-those looking to escape averageness
Laser Squad Nemesis
So, the clans are analysed and that just leaves my final table predictions. This may not entirely tie up with my discussion of the clans, as clearly that was written over a protraced period and results are flooding in now (in division two at any rate). So:
Division One:
the Faceless Consortium
The Dragons Rising
Anaraknaphobia
99ers
8-bit Fanatics
Grunts On The Edge
Rogue Element
Invincible Crazy Fists
---
Crimson Scales
The Worms That Turned
Alice's Mighty Dischord
Division Two:
Doomed
Aftershock Reloaded
Bouncing Krauts
---
Rock N Roll Suicides
Phoenix Rising
Brigantes
Alone It The Dark
Disciples of Grammer
A.B.C. Warriors
Cursed Clowns
Hippo Squirrels
Other People's Mistakes
Eating cold food when you have a bad tooth.
30 July 2004
Blondie Strikes Again
Albums
Abraxis - Santana
Laser Squad Nemesis
The last of the clans tonight, The Worms That Turned from division one and Phoenix Rising and the Rock N Roll Suicides from division two.
Worms:
One of the great old names and the clan of Alliance's founding father, DoctorWorm. Not what they once were. Line up troubles have plagued the clan and they look more than a little shaky. Barring dramatic recruitment turn arounds, I fear they will end up the whipping boys of division on this season. A shame, but is has to be someone.
PR:
Home of thegoblin, a walking one man conversation who fills the forums with joy. The clan isn't too bad either with a good mix of experience and talent. They might manage promotion this season, but it might take a little luck against the top ranked clans.
RNRS:
A fighting finish last season didn't save them from the drop. The original season line-up looked powerful, with three top thirty elite players and experience, if a lack of form, in the middle order. With names dropping out, things look a little rougher now and the old hands will need to pull their weight even more. At the start of the seasonone of the favourites for promotion if not the title, now, maybe a top three spot is dubious.
Other People's Mistakes
For a change, another trampolining mistake:
Forgetting to kick out of a tuck front, still landing just about on your feet but driving your knees into your chest. Badbadbadbad.
Abraxis - Santana
Laser Squad Nemesis
The last of the clans tonight, The Worms That Turned from division one and Phoenix Rising and the Rock N Roll Suicides from division two.
Worms:
One of the great old names and the clan of Alliance's founding father, DoctorWorm. Not what they once were. Line up troubles have plagued the clan and they look more than a little shaky. Barring dramatic recruitment turn arounds, I fear they will end up the whipping boys of division on this season. A shame, but is has to be someone.
PR:
Home of thegoblin, a walking one man conversation who fills the forums with joy. The clan isn't too bad either with a good mix of experience and talent. They might manage promotion this season, but it might take a little luck against the top ranked clans.
RNRS:
A fighting finish last season didn't save them from the drop. The original season line-up looked powerful, with three top thirty elite players and experience, if a lack of form, in the middle order. With names dropping out, things look a little rougher now and the old hands will need to pull their weight even more. At the start of the seasonone of the favourites for promotion if not the title, now, maybe a top three spot is dubious.
Other People's Mistakes
For a change, another trampolining mistake:
Forgetting to kick out of a tuck front, still landing just about on your feet but driving your knees into your chest. Badbadbadbad.
29 July 2004
E-Bay Ahoy
Albums
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath's first album and for me one of their best. It has one of my favourite opening track openings (one day I shall write a list) and great tracks. Some of Sabbath's most famous moments are hear, the harmonica in The Wizard and the opening and riff of N.I.B. for example.
Because of the age of the recording and the nature of production the album does sound a little rough at times, but I think the rawness can be an asset in places, some of the cleaner sounds of later albums don't entirely match the songs or the atmosphere. The songs themselves are pretty good; none are poor by Sabbath standards and some of the classics are here.
Ozzy is Ozzy, sounding as good as he is able (bless his socks), Tony Iommi shows off some of his best work, unfortunately in future albums he didn't always live up to his early standards. Geezer is good, giving us an early taste of his abilities. Bill Ward is, umm, well a reasonable drummer.
A very solid album and one that should be high on the list in the Sabbath catalogue.
Recommended to:
-Sabbath fans
-classic heavy rock/metal fans
-anyone looking for a good introduction to Sabbath
Not recommended to:
-people who don't like metal/rock
-those who like ultra-clean and precise production
Laser Squad Nemesis
Tongiht under the spotlight are the Faceless Consortium and the Hippo Squirrels.
tFC:
The undisputed rulers of Alliance. A line-up that is close to being unmatched, now well blooded as well as talented. There were some questions at the end of last season as to whether the clan would stay together long enough to defend their position, but if this was unfounded there are potentially only one or two clans who can touch them (on a good day).
HS:
They beavered away last season and looked to have good fun awith a good team spirit. Unfortunately, the lack of big names cost them dearly and there is a slight question over their lack of subs. One of the dearly loved clans who unfortunately probably won't manage too much in the trophy cabinet.
Other People's Mistakes
Getting carried away. By everything. All the time. For pities sake sit down and think about it first boy.
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath - Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath's first album and for me one of their best. It has one of my favourite opening track openings (one day I shall write a list) and great tracks. Some of Sabbath's most famous moments are hear, the harmonica in The Wizard and the opening and riff of N.I.B. for example.
Because of the age of the recording and the nature of production the album does sound a little rough at times, but I think the rawness can be an asset in places, some of the cleaner sounds of later albums don't entirely match the songs or the atmosphere. The songs themselves are pretty good; none are poor by Sabbath standards and some of the classics are here.
Ozzy is Ozzy, sounding as good as he is able (bless his socks), Tony Iommi shows off some of his best work, unfortunately in future albums he didn't always live up to his early standards. Geezer is good, giving us an early taste of his abilities. Bill Ward is, umm, well a reasonable drummer.
A very solid album and one that should be high on the list in the Sabbath catalogue.
Recommended to:
-Sabbath fans
-classic heavy rock/metal fans
-anyone looking for a good introduction to Sabbath
Not recommended to:
-people who don't like metal/rock
-those who like ultra-clean and precise production
Laser Squad Nemesis
Tongiht under the spotlight are the Faceless Consortium and the Hippo Squirrels.
tFC:
The undisputed rulers of Alliance. A line-up that is close to being unmatched, now well blooded as well as talented. There were some questions at the end of last season as to whether the clan would stay together long enough to defend their position, but if this was unfounded there are potentially only one or two clans who can touch them (on a good day).
HS:
They beavered away last season and looked to have good fun awith a good team spirit. Unfortunately, the lack of big names cost them dearly and there is a slight question over their lack of subs. One of the dearly loved clans who unfortunately probably won't manage too much in the trophy cabinet.
Other People's Mistakes
Getting carried away. By everything. All the time. For pities sake sit down and think about it first boy.
28 July 2004
Funky Monkey
Albums
The Ladder - Yes
Supernatural - Santana
Poland - Tangerine Dream
Supernatural - Santana
This was an album hat caused a little bit of a stir when it was released (in 1999 I think). It had several top selling singles on it and made a bit of a splash with the public, a bit of for a latin-blues guitarist who had his British heyday in the seventies. Part of the success was because of some superb marketing from BMG, part because many of the tracks were collabarations with other well known artists spanning many boundaries (Wyclef Jean, Eric Clapton, Lauryn Hill and so on) and partly because there is some great music on there.
Sanatana is a great guitarist, not maybe as good as he thinks he is, but pretty good all the same. He is backed up with some atmospheric bass and organ work that fatten out the sometimes sparse guitar parts. The songs are strong and consistant, full of energy but relaxed, an oxymoron that the latin style really can pull off.
It does feel a bit like an ego trip for Santana at times, but that is to be entirely expected of course. And E.C. shows himself to be the better guitarist in the last track (entirely my opinion of course...).
Recommended to:
-those looking for a good long album to relax and get funky to
-Sanatana fans
-people who buy few albums but want some good latin style music that is both good and popular
-fans of skillful guitarists (who don't already own some Santana)
Not recommended to:
-fans of proper blues
-people who think ego and music don't mix
-snobs who think popular equals bad, you deserve to miss out on a good album
Laser Squad Nemesis
The LSN meet was a grand time, lots of brilliant people and fun to be had. More details when I get my photographs processed.
Tonight's clans are Rogue Element and The Dragons.
RE:
Last season's shock promotion, no-one rated RE but they won matches. They look underpowered to be taking on division one, but a confident start may reap rewards. It is hard not to see them dropping back to division two, but they took us all by surprise last time.
Dragons:
The Dragons took a beating last season. In part this was due to line-up problems and too many players defaulting games, but even with that taken into account, it wasn't pretty. With a stabilised line-up things should be better in division two and they have no little strength. I don't think it will be quite enough to face down the main contenders in the end, but this season will be a good confidence booster.
Other People's Mistakes
Don't take on more than you honestly think that you can handle. It is better to let people find alternatives at the start than to let them down and break your word at the end. It could end up costing you anything and maybe everything. Do enough well, rather than too much poorly.
The Ladder - Yes
Supernatural - Santana
Poland - Tangerine Dream
Supernatural - Santana
This was an album hat caused a little bit of a stir when it was released (in 1999 I think). It had several top selling singles on it and made a bit of a splash with the public, a bit of for a latin-blues guitarist who had his British heyday in the seventies. Part of the success was because of some superb marketing from BMG, part because many of the tracks were collabarations with other well known artists spanning many boundaries (Wyclef Jean, Eric Clapton, Lauryn Hill and so on) and partly because there is some great music on there.
Sanatana is a great guitarist, not maybe as good as he thinks he is, but pretty good all the same. He is backed up with some atmospheric bass and organ work that fatten out the sometimes sparse guitar parts. The songs are strong and consistant, full of energy but relaxed, an oxymoron that the latin style really can pull off.
It does feel a bit like an ego trip for Santana at times, but that is to be entirely expected of course. And E.C. shows himself to be the better guitarist in the last track (entirely my opinion of course...).
Recommended to:
-those looking for a good long album to relax and get funky to
-Sanatana fans
-people who buy few albums but want some good latin style music that is both good and popular
-fans of skillful guitarists (who don't already own some Santana)
Not recommended to:
-fans of proper blues
-people who think ego and music don't mix
-snobs who think popular equals bad, you deserve to miss out on a good album
Laser Squad Nemesis
The LSN meet was a grand time, lots of brilliant people and fun to be had. More details when I get my photographs processed.
Tonight's clans are Rogue Element and The Dragons.
RE:
Last season's shock promotion, no-one rated RE but they won matches. They look underpowered to be taking on division one, but a confident start may reap rewards. It is hard not to see them dropping back to division two, but they took us all by surprise last time.
Dragons:
The Dragons took a beating last season. In part this was due to line-up problems and too many players defaulting games, but even with that taken into account, it wasn't pretty. With a stabilised line-up things should be better in division two and they have no little strength. I don't think it will be quite enough to face down the main contenders in the end, but this season will be a good confidence booster.
Other People's Mistakes
Don't take on more than you honestly think that you can handle. It is better to let people find alternatives at the start than to let them down and break your word at the end. It could end up costing you anything and maybe everything. Do enough well, rather than too much poorly.
22 July 2004
Bye Bye Quick Ben
Albums
Snow - Spock's Beard
Laser Squad Nemesis
First of all, a big hearty round of applause for Quick Ben. One of the real old timers of the game, he is leaving us for his future. He will still be helping out with Alliance and fulfilling obligations for a while, but it still a sad day to see an old face move on. Lots of hugs and kisses for him and the very best wishes for the future.
The Invincible Crazy Fists (division one ) and Doomed (division two) tonight.
ICF:
This clan is a team. They fight hard, getting results that may seem well out of their reach and quietly getting the job done. There may be more surprises this season, but division one is a different prospect to division two. They will fight hard still and get good results, but I think not as many. Not challengers without an extra top ranked player or so, but potential giant killers.
Doomed:
Doomed look to be clear favourites in division two. They are enough of a division one clan to be well clear of the typical division two clans and past history shows that they should have the edge over the other challengers. A line up of solid, consistant and well respected players with a small dose of bruised pride from demotion will see them clear at the top.
Other People's Mistakes
Heart and head are two different things, but both know their stuff. Try not to follow one or the other exclusively, the extremes aren't always entirely pleasant, although some lucky few manage to pull them off.
Snow - Spock's Beard
Laser Squad Nemesis
First of all, a big hearty round of applause for Quick Ben. One of the real old timers of the game, he is leaving us for his future. He will still be helping out with Alliance and fulfilling obligations for a while, but it still a sad day to see an old face move on. Lots of hugs and kisses for him and the very best wishes for the future.
The Invincible Crazy Fists (division one ) and Doomed (division two) tonight.
ICF:
This clan is a team. They fight hard, getting results that may seem well out of their reach and quietly getting the job done. There may be more surprises this season, but division one is a different prospect to division two. They will fight hard still and get good results, but I think not as many. Not challengers without an extra top ranked player or so, but potential giant killers.
Doomed:
Doomed look to be clear favourites in division two. They are enough of a division one clan to be well clear of the typical division two clans and past history shows that they should have the edge over the other challengers. A line up of solid, consistant and well respected players with a small dose of bruised pride from demotion will see them clear at the top.
Other People's Mistakes
Heart and head are two different things, but both know their stuff. Try not to follow one or the other exclusively, the extremes aren't always entirely pleasant, although some lucky few manage to pull them off.
16 July 2004
Too Tired
Hm, my blog entry just changed lots. New toys to play with.
Albums
Six Wives Of Henry VIII - Rick Wakeman
Far too tired to write an album up tonight, if you are nice I will do Six Wives for you tomorrow. Ha, in my dreams.
LSN
A double dose of predictions again to make up for my laziness above. The Dragons Rising and Grunts On The Edge from division one and the Cursed Clowns and the Disciples Of Grammer in division two.
Dragons Rising:
Last season's run away division two winners, and for good reason. A very good line up with big guns who have a habit of getting Alliance results. It is hard to see more than one or two other clans being able to consistantly match the power and I think Dragons Rising are in with a very good chance of taking the title.
Grunts:
Two season ago they were the kings, last season they were close, but things seem a little tougher for the Grunts this time. Top players aren't quite getting the results they should and a little tiredness seems to be settling in. Not out of the action by any means, but I doubt there will be a top table finish this season for the Grunts.
Clowns:
A mixed debut season for the Clowns. To be honest, I can't see too much hope of a promotion scrap for these guys, but thankfully they are one of the clans who take Alliance not so very seriously and we are all the better for it. And probably capable of the odd surprise result wise as well.
D.O.G:
The first clan to disband (at the end of season 0) returns to the fold. A mix of very experienced players (founding members) and very new players makes them an interesting beast. This season they probably won't push the top clans in division two, but who knows what is in the future (if they can stay together).
Other People's Mistakes
Don't push a good idea too far.
Albums
Six Wives Of Henry VIII - Rick Wakeman
Far too tired to write an album up tonight, if you are nice I will do Six Wives for you tomorrow. Ha, in my dreams.
LSN
A double dose of predictions again to make up for my laziness above. The Dragons Rising and Grunts On The Edge from division one and the Cursed Clowns and the Disciples Of Grammer in division two.
Dragons Rising:
Last season's run away division two winners, and for good reason. A very good line up with big guns who have a habit of getting Alliance results. It is hard to see more than one or two other clans being able to consistantly match the power and I think Dragons Rising are in with a very good chance of taking the title.
Grunts:
Two season ago they were the kings, last season they were close, but things seem a little tougher for the Grunts this time. Top players aren't quite getting the results they should and a little tiredness seems to be settling in. Not out of the action by any means, but I doubt there will be a top table finish this season for the Grunts.
Clowns:
A mixed debut season for the Clowns. To be honest, I can't see too much hope of a promotion scrap for these guys, but thankfully they are one of the clans who take Alliance not so very seriously and we are all the better for it. And probably capable of the odd surprise result wise as well.
D.O.G:
The first clan to disband (at the end of season 0) returns to the fold. A mix of very experienced players (founding members) and very new players makes them an interesting beast. This season they probably won't push the top clans in division two, but who knows what is in the future (if they can stay together).
Other People's Mistakes
Don't push a good idea too far.
15 July 2004
It's All Too Late
Albums
News Of The World - Queen
News Of The World - Queen
An album of songs at last. And some pretty good ones at that. As ever with Queen albums the great tracks are the album tracks as opposed to those that were released as singles. We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions are not to be discarded of course, but they are a little overplayed at the expense of some very good music.
The styles are well mixed, from the gentler Spread Your Wings and It's Late to the punky Sheer Heart Attack and the hard corners of Fight From The Inside and slightly more offbeat Mercury tracks like Get Down, Make Love.
There are no real explosions from any of the band members, Freddie's voice is fairly subdued, May's guitar work is as versatile, entertaining and good to listen to as ever without being virtuousic, Deacon and Taylor do what is needed and a little extra here and there. There is a fair bit more piano from Freddie than on a lot of the other albums and it works well and adds a nice sound.
A solid Queen album then. Not their best, but a long way from their worst.
Recommended to:
-Queen fans
-fans of easy to listen to guitar based rock
-pretty much everyone else
Not recommended to:
-people surprise by the revelation that Queen recorded tracks that weren't on the three Greatest Hits compilations
-those who think it isn't music without at least three key changes and time signatures with 11s in them.
Laser Squad Nemesis
As a special treat to make up for my absence, a double helping of Alliance predictions, Anaraknaphobia and the Crimson Scales from division one and the Bouncing Krauts and Brigantes from division two.
Anaraknaphobia:
Named after a Marillion album (possibly), their good taste may see this clan do well (possibly). A strong finish last season and a hat full of highly ranked players make this line-up one to be feared. Probably not quite strong enough to take the title, but I would be surprised to see them finish outside of the top three or four.
Crimson Scales:
One of the handful of season 0 clans still fighting, age seems to have wearied the Scales. They have made some good moves in the recruiting game though and are looking stronger than the line-up that was struggling badly at the end of last season. I am not convinced that this will be enough though and it will be another season of struggles to survive in the top flight.
Bouncing Krauts:
The second new clan this season and another one lacking some top flight names to give early confidence. Still a team to watch out for though, maybe next season rather than this, which will probably see steady games for a mid table finish.
Brigantes:
Another very experienced clan, but that didn't count for much last season with the Brigantes being clear wooden spoon winners. I think that was a harsh end result and they be boosted to do better this season, reaching a mid-table position that more accurately reflects their dedication to the competition.
Other People's Mistakes
And a double dose here as well:
Never be afraid to admit a mistake. Everyone really is very nice, and the
handful of bastards, well, they will meet their judgement one day. It
makes you feel so much better than sinking down in pointless blame
shifting and covering up.
Don't take little things too seriously.
News Of The World - Queen
News Of The World - Queen
An album of songs at last. And some pretty good ones at that. As ever with Queen albums the great tracks are the album tracks as opposed to those that were released as singles. We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions are not to be discarded of course, but they are a little overplayed at the expense of some very good music.
The styles are well mixed, from the gentler Spread Your Wings and It's Late to the punky Sheer Heart Attack and the hard corners of Fight From The Inside and slightly more offbeat Mercury tracks like Get Down, Make Love.
There are no real explosions from any of the band members, Freddie's voice is fairly subdued, May's guitar work is as versatile, entertaining and good to listen to as ever without being virtuousic, Deacon and Taylor do what is needed and a little extra here and there. There is a fair bit more piano from Freddie than on a lot of the other albums and it works well and adds a nice sound.
A solid Queen album then. Not their best, but a long way from their worst.
Recommended to:
-Queen fans
-fans of easy to listen to guitar based rock
-pretty much everyone else
Not recommended to:
-people surprise by the revelation that Queen recorded tracks that weren't on the three Greatest Hits compilations
-those who think it isn't music without at least three key changes and time signatures with 11s in them.
Laser Squad Nemesis
As a special treat to make up for my absence, a double helping of Alliance predictions, Anaraknaphobia and the Crimson Scales from division one and the Bouncing Krauts and Brigantes from division two.
Anaraknaphobia:
Named after a Marillion album (possibly), their good taste may see this clan do well (possibly). A strong finish last season and a hat full of highly ranked players make this line-up one to be feared. Probably not quite strong enough to take the title, but I would be surprised to see them finish outside of the top three or four.
Crimson Scales:
One of the handful of season 0 clans still fighting, age seems to have wearied the Scales. They have made some good moves in the recruiting game though and are looking stronger than the line-up that was struggling badly at the end of last season. I am not convinced that this will be enough though and it will be another season of struggles to survive in the top flight.
Bouncing Krauts:
The second new clan this season and another one lacking some top flight names to give early confidence. Still a team to watch out for though, maybe next season rather than this, which will probably see steady games for a mid table finish.
Brigantes:
Another very experienced clan, but that didn't count for much last season with the Brigantes being clear wooden spoon winners. I think that was a harsh end result and they be boosted to do better this season, reaching a mid-table position that more accurately reflects their dedication to the competition.
Other People's Mistakes
And a double dose here as well:
Never be afraid to admit a mistake. Everyone really is very nice, and the
handful of bastards, well, they will meet their judgement one day. It
makes you feel so much better than sinking down in pointless blame
shifting and covering up.
Don't take little things too seriously.
14 July 2004
Libera Me
Albums
Requiem - Gabriel Fauré
Pavane - Gabriel Fauré
Magnificat - Johann Sebastian Bach
I have been away for a couple of days and am a little short of time, so just a quick run on Alliance predictions and a Mistake. I shall prepare some extra for a later date.
Laser Squad Nemesis
Division one tonight give Alice's Mighty Dischord and divsion two Alone In The Dark.
AMD:
A respected clan with one or two strong players and a lot of experience, but performance was weak last season and with division one looking as strong as ever, especially with some of the chaff removed, it will take consistantly good results to save AMD from relegation. I remain to be convinced that they can sustain themselves over a full season.
AITD:
A reasonable performance last season for a new clan, AITD seem to lack an edge. Increased experience will help them, but the descending division one teams will have more of it and with some better players. Good enough to avoid the bottom, but I don't think quite sharp enough to be challenging for the top.
Other People's Mistakes
The first of some specialist ones from the world of trampolining:
When belt supporting or stepping in for front somersaults (if this happens when you are hand supporting, you are doing something wrong, other clues to this case will be the snapping of bone), mind your head. Bouncers of a gangly nature or those generally wobbly in the air tend to wave their arms about a bit. Having an elbow make contact with the side of your head as it tries to propel its owner through the somersault is not pleasant (although it can make a great noise).
Requiem - Gabriel Fauré
Pavane - Gabriel Fauré
Magnificat - Johann Sebastian Bach
I have been away for a couple of days and am a little short of time, so just a quick run on Alliance predictions and a Mistake. I shall prepare some extra for a later date.
Laser Squad Nemesis
Division one tonight give Alice's Mighty Dischord and divsion two Alone In The Dark.
AMD:
A respected clan with one or two strong players and a lot of experience, but performance was weak last season and with division one looking as strong as ever, especially with some of the chaff removed, it will take consistantly good results to save AMD from relegation. I remain to be convinced that they can sustain themselves over a full season.
AITD:
A reasonable performance last season for a new clan, AITD seem to lack an edge. Increased experience will help them, but the descending division one teams will have more of it and with some better players. Good enough to avoid the bottom, but I don't think quite sharp enough to be challenging for the top.
Other People's Mistakes
The first of some specialist ones from the world of trampolining:
When belt supporting or stepping in for front somersaults (if this happens when you are hand supporting, you are doing something wrong, other clues to this case will be the snapping of bone), mind your head. Bouncers of a gangly nature or those generally wobbly in the air tend to wave their arms about a bit. Having an elbow make contact with the side of your head as it tries to propel its owner through the somersault is not pleasant (although it can make a great noise).
Albums
Requiem - Gabriel Fauré
Pavane - Gabriel Fauré
Magnificat - Johann Sebastian Bach
I have been away for a couple of days and am a little short of time, so just a quick run on Alliance predictions and a Mistake. I shall prepare some extra for a later date.
Laser Squad Nemesis
Division one tonight give Alice's Mighty Dischord and divsion two Alone In The Dark.
AMD:
A respected clan with one or two strong players and a lot of experience, but performance was weak last season and with division one looking as strong as ever, especially with some of the chaff removed, it will take consistantly good results to save AMD from relegation. I remain to be convinced that they can sustain themselves over a full season.
AITD:
A reasonable performance last season for a new clan, AITD seem to lack an edge. Increased experience will help them, but the descending division one teams will have more of it and with some better players. Good enough to avoid the bottom, but I don't think quite sharp enough to be challenging for the top.
Other People's Mistakes
The first of some specialist ones from the world of trampolining:
When belt supporting or stepping in for front somersaults (if this happens when you are hand supporting, you are doing something wrong, other clues to this case will be the snapping of bone), mind your head. Bouncers of a gangly nature or those generally wobbly in the air tend to wave their arms about a bit. Having an elbow make contact with the side of your head as it tries to propel its owner through the somersault is not pleasant (although it can make a great noise).
Requiem - Gabriel Fauré
Pavane - Gabriel Fauré
Magnificat - Johann Sebastian Bach
I have been away for a couple of days and am a little short of time, so just a quick run on Alliance predictions and a Mistake. I shall prepare some extra for a later date.
Laser Squad Nemesis
Division one tonight give Alice's Mighty Dischord and divsion two Alone In The Dark.
AMD:
A respected clan with one or two strong players and a lot of experience, but performance was weak last season and with division one looking as strong as ever, especially with some of the chaff removed, it will take consistantly good results to save AMD from relegation. I remain to be convinced that they can sustain themselves over a full season.
AITD:
A reasonable performance last season for a new clan, AITD seem to lack an edge. Increased experience will help them, but the descending division one teams will have more of it and with some better players. Good enough to avoid the bottom, but I don't think quite sharp enough to be challenging for the top.
Other People's Mistakes
The first of some specialist ones from the world of trampolining:
When belt supporting or stepping in for front somersaults (if this happens when you are hand supporting, you are doing something wrong, other clues to this case will be the snapping of bone), mind your head. Bouncers of a gangly nature or those generally wobbly in the air tend to wave their arms about a bit. Having an elbow make contact with the side of your head as it tries to propel its owner through the somersault is not pleasant (although it can make a great noise).
11 July 2004
I Want You To Know I'd Die For One More Moment
Albums
Since the last quack I have listened to:
Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe - Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe
Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence - Dream Theater
Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence - Dream Theater
Another double album to look at, although this one is very much two CDs as opposed to two sides of vinyl. In fact, this is very much two CDs sold as a sinlge album by Dream Theater. The first CD is half a dozen ten or twelve minute tracks and the second a single piece, forty minutes or so.
The first CD is mostly from the heavier end of Dream Theater's repertoire (see below for utterly divergent rant). You wouldn't be blamed for thinking that the opening of the first was from a Metallica album, at least until the keyboard part kicks in. The tracks are all well written and sustain their length very well. Instrumentally things are superb, Jordan Rudess in particular merging his more proggy keyboard style in well with John Pretrucci's thrash lead and Mike Portney's heavy drumming.
My only reservation about the first CD is track four, The Great Debate. Politics and music have been bed fellows forever and music can be a powerful voice for thoughts and ideas. Sometimes however, it can feel a bit forced and unfortunately I think that this track does. The music is grand, but the lyrics seem shoehorned in and as important as the issues raised are, it does cut the enjoyment for me a little.
The second CD is a single piece and palys well as such. It leans much more in the progressive rock direction than the first and shows that the whole band are capable of thoughtful and gentle playing that you might find unexpected having only listened to the first CD. That isn't to say that it doesn't have its heavy moments though. As is to be exected from Dream Theater, the story of the piece is dark in places but has some lovely light moments and is written with a sense of humour (which can only be a good thing in my mind). At some points there are hints of Lake/Sinfield style lyrical desperation, but I'll let Dream Theater off.
A corking album, in particular I love the second CD, but both are great. One I shall keep close by me for a long time to come.
Recommended to:
-Dream Theater fans (and anyone who has heard from any of Mike Portnoy's many projects)
-Metal/rock fans who would like to try something a little more thoughtful and varied
-Everyone who can cope with slightly louder music
Not recommended to:
-Prog rock fans who think the genre (poor pigeon) finishes at the end of Rick's Moog (even though Jordan R does have his moments).
-People who think amplification is for degenerate philistines
Utterly divergent rant:
In my first year at secondary school (around the age of eleven for those as don't know the Enlgish school system) my English class was asked to produce an A to Z list of the form 'She had the aspect of an angel', the key points being the words starting with the letter a. My attempt for r was heartlessly rejected by my teacher, for which I was most miffed for I thought it was one of my better ones. 'He had the repertoire of a rat'. And exactly how many rats have you heard that can sing more than one tune? Hmmm?
Laser Squad Nemesis
Tonight we have the 99ers from division one and Aftershock Reloaded from division two.
99ers:
A clan to be wary of. Although they lack top fifty elite players, the 99ers line up has depth, with several players with a great deal of experience who are never far away from the top of the table. They should be capable of holding their own against the main contenders and I expect them to be one of teams fighting hard for a high ranking place.
Aftershock Reloaded:
For the players they have, Aftershock always seem to have under achieved a little. They have the quality to take it all the way, and are by far the strongest of the division two clans that weren't promoted last season. Even if they don't manage to beat the better of the demoted division one clans, they should be top three finishers this season.
Other People's Mistakes
Pay close attention when you first ride a bicycle with pedal clips. This is espescially important when slowing or stopping the bike. Although it is immensely amusing to slowly topple sideways (it really is), it is also quite dangerous and may damage the bicycle.
Since the last quack I have listened to:
Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe - Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe
Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence - Dream Theater
Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence - Dream Theater
Another double album to look at, although this one is very much two CDs as opposed to two sides of vinyl. In fact, this is very much two CDs sold as a sinlge album by Dream Theater. The first CD is half a dozen ten or twelve minute tracks and the second a single piece, forty minutes or so.
The first CD is mostly from the heavier end of Dream Theater's repertoire (see below for utterly divergent rant). You wouldn't be blamed for thinking that the opening of the first was from a Metallica album, at least until the keyboard part kicks in. The tracks are all well written and sustain their length very well. Instrumentally things are superb, Jordan Rudess in particular merging his more proggy keyboard style in well with John Pretrucci's thrash lead and Mike Portney's heavy drumming.
My only reservation about the first CD is track four, The Great Debate. Politics and music have been bed fellows forever and music can be a powerful voice for thoughts and ideas. Sometimes however, it can feel a bit forced and unfortunately I think that this track does. The music is grand, but the lyrics seem shoehorned in and as important as the issues raised are, it does cut the enjoyment for me a little.
The second CD is a single piece and palys well as such. It leans much more in the progressive rock direction than the first and shows that the whole band are capable of thoughtful and gentle playing that you might find unexpected having only listened to the first CD. That isn't to say that it doesn't have its heavy moments though. As is to be exected from Dream Theater, the story of the piece is dark in places but has some lovely light moments and is written with a sense of humour (which can only be a good thing in my mind). At some points there are hints of Lake/Sinfield style lyrical desperation, but I'll let Dream Theater off.
A corking album, in particular I love the second CD, but both are great. One I shall keep close by me for a long time to come.
Recommended to:
-Dream Theater fans (and anyone who has heard from any of Mike Portnoy's many projects)
-Metal/rock fans who would like to try something a little more thoughtful and varied
-Everyone who can cope with slightly louder music
Not recommended to:
-Prog rock fans who think the genre (poor pigeon) finishes at the end of Rick's Moog (even though Jordan R does have his moments).
-People who think amplification is for degenerate philistines
Utterly divergent rant:
In my first year at secondary school (around the age of eleven for those as don't know the Enlgish school system) my English class was asked to produce an A to Z list of the form 'She had the aspect of an angel', the key points being the words starting with the letter a. My attempt for r was heartlessly rejected by my teacher, for which I was most miffed for I thought it was one of my better ones. 'He had the repertoire of a rat'. And exactly how many rats have you heard that can sing more than one tune? Hmmm?
Laser Squad Nemesis
Tonight we have the 99ers from division one and Aftershock Reloaded from division two.
99ers:
A clan to be wary of. Although they lack top fifty elite players, the 99ers line up has depth, with several players with a great deal of experience who are never far away from the top of the table. They should be capable of holding their own against the main contenders and I expect them to be one of teams fighting hard for a high ranking place.
Aftershock Reloaded:
For the players they have, Aftershock always seem to have under achieved a little. They have the quality to take it all the way, and are by far the strongest of the division two clans that weren't promoted last season. Even if they don't manage to beat the better of the demoted division one clans, they should be top three finishers this season.
Other People's Mistakes
Pay close attention when you first ride a bicycle with pedal clips. This is espescially important when slowing or stopping the bike. Although it is immensely amusing to slowly topple sideways (it really is), it is also quite dangerous and may damage the bicycle.
10 July 2004
Faces Smiling In The Gloom
Albums
CD Review, BBC Radio Three
A Passion Play, Jethro Tull
Passion, Peter Gabriel (music from Martin Scorsese's film The Last Temptation of Christ)
Crest Of A Knave, Jethro Tull
A Passion Play, Jethro Tull
A new album for me, I am writing part way through my second listening. A Passion Play is an album of two tracks, both just over twenty minutes. Let me warn you know, I am no fan of pigeon holing, I don't the idea of putting birds where they are free not to spread their wings. So, Jethro Tull's concept album then, he he.
I am just starting my exploration of Tull's music, so my comparisions on that front are not backed by any great knowledge. In instrumental terms, the album seems to make greater use of keyboard instruments, piano, organ, synths than other albums, but certainly not overly so. All of the other instrumental hallmarks that you would expect of Tull are there, lots of accoustic work, simple but effective bass work, flute and Ian Anderson's rather unique voice are all there and as good as on any other album.
The music itself then. The album is quite an experience. It is very much written as a single piece but moves around with a great freedom, although some may say insanity instead. Parts are very complex, parts very simple but it does hang together very well. I suspect when I know it well enough to start putting the lyrics in place as well, the sense of unity will only increase.
Apparently, Tull fans are quite divided by the album and I can understand that. It certainly seems to be fairly unique in their output and in a very different style. A lot of people just won't like the type of music, comparible as it is to the standard view of progressive rock of the seventies in a way that other Tull really isn't.
However, I love it. I loved it the first time I heard it and can only imagine that my love will only increase as I know it better.
Recommended to:
-Jethro Tull fans (with the warning that it is quite different)
-King Crimson and prog rock fans in general
-Those with a taste for the bizarre
Not recommended to:
-People who like their music straight forward
-Those for whom prog rock sends a shiver down the spine.
Laser Squad Nemesis
The first clans that fall under my beady eye are the 8-bit Fanatics from division one and the A.B.C Warriors from division two.
8-bits:
One of the best clans, active in the LSN community and with what seems to the outsider a brilliant team spirit. Some of them are even vaguely amusing. In game terms, maybe they aren't so strong. Lacking many top fifty elite players, they will find it difficult to crack the top teams in division one. They do have depth and shouldn't founder however. Scrapping it out mid-table seems likely, and one of the clans that with some lucky results might do a little better.
A.B.C Warriors:
A self-declared clan of rookie players, formed from fresh players. For that reason, they are difficult to judge. However, a good proportion of their players can be expected to start their climb to the top ranks here so good results are a distinct possibility. Inexperience will probably have a dulling effect however, but I wouldn't be surprised if they were mid-table at the end of the season, and outside chance for top tableness.
Other People's Mistakes
Mistaking perturbed for preturboted is a grave mistake. To confuse the feeling of being mentally agitated or being thrown into disorder with the shock and horror felt in the fraction of time before being slapped in the face by a large flat fish is a mistake many have made and to their great cost.
Quack!
CD Review, BBC Radio Three
A Passion Play, Jethro Tull
Passion, Peter Gabriel (music from Martin Scorsese's film The Last Temptation of Christ)
Crest Of A Knave, Jethro Tull
A Passion Play, Jethro Tull
A new album for me, I am writing part way through my second listening. A Passion Play is an album of two tracks, both just over twenty minutes. Let me warn you know, I am no fan of pigeon holing, I don't the idea of putting birds where they are free not to spread their wings. So, Jethro Tull's concept album then, he he.
I am just starting my exploration of Tull's music, so my comparisions on that front are not backed by any great knowledge. In instrumental terms, the album seems to make greater use of keyboard instruments, piano, organ, synths than other albums, but certainly not overly so. All of the other instrumental hallmarks that you would expect of Tull are there, lots of accoustic work, simple but effective bass work, flute and Ian Anderson's rather unique voice are all there and as good as on any other album.
The music itself then. The album is quite an experience. It is very much written as a single piece but moves around with a great freedom, although some may say insanity instead. Parts are very complex, parts very simple but it does hang together very well. I suspect when I know it well enough to start putting the lyrics in place as well, the sense of unity will only increase.
Apparently, Tull fans are quite divided by the album and I can understand that. It certainly seems to be fairly unique in their output and in a very different style. A lot of people just won't like the type of music, comparible as it is to the standard view of progressive rock of the seventies in a way that other Tull really isn't.
However, I love it. I loved it the first time I heard it and can only imagine that my love will only increase as I know it better.
Recommended to:
-Jethro Tull fans (with the warning that it is quite different)
-King Crimson and prog rock fans in general
-Those with a taste for the bizarre
Not recommended to:
-People who like their music straight forward
-Those for whom prog rock sends a shiver down the spine.
Laser Squad Nemesis
The first clans that fall under my beady eye are the 8-bit Fanatics from division one and the A.B.C Warriors from division two.
8-bits:
One of the best clans, active in the LSN community and with what seems to the outsider a brilliant team spirit. Some of them are even vaguely amusing. In game terms, maybe they aren't so strong. Lacking many top fifty elite players, they will find it difficult to crack the top teams in division one. They do have depth and shouldn't founder however. Scrapping it out mid-table seems likely, and one of the clans that with some lucky results might do a little better.
A.B.C Warriors:
A self-declared clan of rookie players, formed from fresh players. For that reason, they are difficult to judge. However, a good proportion of their players can be expected to start their climb to the top ranks here so good results are a distinct possibility. Inexperience will probably have a dulling effect however, but I wouldn't be surprised if they were mid-table at the end of the season, and outside chance for top tableness.
Other People's Mistakes
Mistaking perturbed for preturboted is a grave mistake. To confuse the feeling of being mentally agitated or being thrown into disorder with the shock and horror felt in the fraction of time before being slapped in the face by a large flat fish is a mistake many have made and to their great cost.
Quack!
The First Quack
Introduction
Music
Laser Squad Nemesis
Other Peoples Mistakes
Quack! Welcome to the first post of the Duck Quacks, possibly the first DuckBlog. I shall be writing initiall on three main subjects.
Music
Music is one of the great passions of my life. I shall comment primarily on individual albums, but may stray into other areas as well.
Laser Squad Nemesis
LSN is a computer game designed and written by the Gollop Brothers, the creator of many classic games including the X-COM and Rebelstar series. I have spent more time with this game than any other, barring possibly the Civilisation and X-COM games. My first series of posts will concern LSNAlliance, one of the premier player run competitions. I shall have a look at the clans and make some predictions on this season's ultimate result.
Other Peoples Mistakes
Following a conversation with a good friend, I shall be expounding a few mistakes that you really shouldn't make. Some may be slightly strange.
To quote myself:
"The only thing better than learning from your own mistakes is learning from other people's ;) I'd be more than happy to share mine to save you some effort, but you's probably get bored after a couple of days."
That isn't a strict quote, as I corrected some spelling mistakes, but never mind.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
