A big thanks to JP for title of this month's update - certainly an improvement on "Music Maylout" I'm sure you'll agree. I'll take suggestions now for July, because evidently I am finding it difficult to think of things myself. If I had a record deal someone would be doing this for me, but where's the fun in that?!
Is it June already?! Have I really just spent the last 6 months working on an album?! And the rest?! Yes yes yes. (But I can't imagine City Ford is saying that more often at the moment.... ). Ok giving up with the jokes now:
FRIDAY 5 JUNE - KINGS HOTEL, BATHURST
60 George Street.
Solo show from 9pm. Free Entry.
Run to Paradise anyone?
SAT 13TH JUNE - "THE LIVING ROOM" @ BAR ME WITH AMY VEE
Bar Me - Cnr William & Brougham St, Kings Cross.
This is the pick of the next month folks - a special unplugged acoustic show. We are not going to be using the PA - the idea is to give you a sense of the songs in their rawest possible form, to take you back to the moment they were first created (in the living room perhaps...). Amy is coming down from Newcastle to join me, and Brett Winterford (Peregrine) will be doing a special guest set set to kick things off. A very relaxed evening, so come on down and join us. A bit of a change from the usual Saturday night madness in the Cross...
Tickets $12 on the door.
Book in advance for Dinner & Show - (02) 9368 0894
SAT 21 JUN - FETE DE LA MUSIQUE
Parramatta Park, Sydney.
Riverside Stage.
Free Entry. On Stage 12pm.
FRI 26 JUN - HEART FOUNDATION CHARITY DINNER.
Anthony Peridis' New York Marathon Journey.
A good friend of mine is competing in this year's New York Marathon, and is raising money along the way for the heart foundation.
A limited number of table bookings are still available. For details, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/inbox/?ref=mb#/event.php?eid=75518668343
SAT 4 JULY - KINGS HOTEL, BATHURST
60 George Street.
Solo Show from 9pm. Free Entry.
SUN 5 JULY - OXFORD ARTS FACTORY
Oxford St, Sydney
Supporting CARUS and LOREN
Solo show. On Stage 8pm. Tix $15 at the door.
And looking further ahead......
SAT 25 JULY - LOCOMOTIVE HOTEL, JUNEE
Solo show, 9pm. Free Entry.
All aboard...
SUN 26 JULY - TOURIST HOTEL, WAGGA
Solo show. 6pm. Free Entry.
Still trying to find the other Wagga...
SUN 2 AUGUST - SUNSETS @ THE FRINGE BAR
Sunsets 1 Year Birthday Party!
With Chris Arnott, the Green Mohair Suits and many many more!!
$8 Entry which includes a drink.
For regular news and updates on upcoming shows, please visit www.myspace.com/rennyfield
---------------------------------------------------
THE ALBUM:
I did mention that yes... And I have mentioned it for god knows how long, but each day I get a little bit closer. Hopefully by the time it is released, the whole thing will make a bit more sense. For the time being, I've put a few of the songs up on MYSPACE - one of which is "Our Time". I think a few of you might have come and help me out with that one a while back...
www.myspace.com/rennyfield
THE VIDEO CLIP:
The dream is not over, just on hold for the time being... :)
Stay tuned.
---------------------------------------------------
SHOULD I COME TO YOU?!
In the course of the past few years, I have played shows all over the place - both in Australia and overseas. If you've got some ideas about where you'd like me to travel, or if you've been on the mailing list for a few years and you can't understand why I never made it back to your part of the world - please feel free to send me an email and I'll try to stop by again. I am currently looking at options for the album launch tour later this year, so open to suggestions from the fans!** I can do pubs, clubs, bars, cafes, concert halls, opera houses, arenas, stadiums, ... ah whoops I went the wrong direction there didn't I.... After "Cafes", it should have read Restaurants, Bookshops, Living Rooms, Back Yards. It's not that I wouldn't like to play in those other places, but it's about realistic objectives folks! Bearing in mind - I played in a squatters house in Amsterdam last year, so really I am not all that picky.
(**"Fan" = Generous assessment of dunk person who mistakenly signed the email list several years ago because they thought they were going into the draw to win a new home.)
Now I just need to get my car fixed so I can actually get out of Sydney... Ah yes the old Corona Wagon - a tragic but amusing tale from my recent trip to Wagga and Junee. I will be posting a blog on myspace shortly - it's a story worth telling.
-----------------------------------------------------
NOTICEBOARD:
* A Shout out to my good mate and Accordion / Piano superstar in the Renny Field band (The Beautiful Shambles) - Happy Birthday mate! www.myspace.com/kenteastwood
* Congratulations to Annaliese Szota on her debut EP. www.myspace.com/annaliesemarie
* THANKS to everyone who came along to last Saturday's secret show with the Falls. They have some new songs up too: www.myspace.com/musicfromthefalls
* And FERGUS BROWN - Just released his debut album. Currently on tour. Check it out: www.myspace.com/fergusbrown
-----------------------------------------------------
IT'S REALLY RAINING HERE:
And it's loud on the roof. Which means I can't record any vocals at the moment, but there's still a bit of mixing left to do, so I'd better be off...
Hope to see you at a show some time soon.
Cheers,
Renny
www.rennyfield.com
www.myspace.com/rennyfield
www.twitter.com/rennyfield
And now on Facebook too:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=75518668343#/pages/RENNY-FIELD/82293007072?sid=c70a1d4d0bc5af342921737bd4435a36&ref=search
Could someone explain the point of twitter. So I signed up, but I still don't understand....
News and updates from the musical adventures of Renny Field...
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The News... May '09
Hey everyone - here is the run-down. See you out there!
GIGS:
SUN MAY 3 - THE BRASS MONKEY, Cronulla
Supporting The Badloves.
Yes - that's the band that you can remember from the 1820's. (Minor exaggeration to achieve effect...)
Solo show - on stage 8pm.
Bookings and info - www.brassmonkey.com.au
WED MAY 6 - THE OLD MANLY BOATSHED
The Corso, Manly.
Solo show - on stage 9pm.
With Ruby for Lucy.
www.myspace.com/rubyforlucy
Info at www.songwriterslive.com.au
SUN MAY 10 - SUNSETS @ THE FRINGE BAR
106 Oxford Street, Paddington
Solo show - on stage 7pm.
With Ruby for Lucy.
Yes it's mothers day, but Mum would love it!
And it's only $8, which includes a Free Drink.
FRI MAY 15 - SUN MAY 17
WAGGA TOUR (To find the second Wagga).
Come along if you dare. Or just stop by and say g'day if you're in Wagga. Or Wagga.
In the final stages of confirming Venues and playing times.
Stay tuned to www.myspace.com/rennyfield
WED MAY 20 - BAR ME, KINGS CROSS
Solo Show, supporting Annaliese Szota's EP Launch.
I recorded a couple of tracks with Annaliese a while back which have made it on to her Debut EP.
Launches are always a good time, this one should be no different.
Solo show - on stage 9pm. Tix $10 at the Door.
SAT JUNE 13 - ACOUSTIC AND UNPLUGGED
BAR ME, KINGS CROSS.
WITH AMY VEE. www.amyvee.com
Note re this gig:
Amy is a friend of mine from Newcastle (also the Winner of the Music Oz Awards 2 years ago!), and we have decided to do this show WITHOUT the PA. It's a rare opportunity to bring the songs back to their rawest form - the way they were first created. Just the voice and the instrument. A bit like being in our living room or bedroom I suppose (although I promise I'll wear more clothing than my bedroom, especially after all the Easter Eggs I just got through....). Bar Me is a great space for this type of thing, and just about the only room in Sydney you could get away with doing it. It'll be a pretty special night, with Dinner available for advance bookings. We'll probably play a few together as well.
Phone (02) 9368 0894
FOR REGULAR GIG UPDATES and further info, Please keep an eye on www.myspace.com/rennyfield
--------------------------------------------
THE ALBUM:
Well I can reveal that the new album will be called THE ARENA, but I can also reveal that in the past two months I managed to pick up a killer throat infection, followed by the whooping cough (yes really), and a lingering flu thingy on the back of that. So there's been a slight hold up with applying the finish, but it's pretty close. And the hours and hours locked up in my little home studio appears to have produced something which might even be worth listening to. And for my first effort as a producer, that's all I was really hoping for. Stay tuned for release dates etc.
There are a few samplers up on myspace, and I am trying to rotate the songs on a regular basis.
www.myspace.com/rennyfield
--------------------------------------------
NOTICEBOARD:
*JENNI ALPERT - Touring from The USA
Last week I was contacted by a singer-songwriter from America who will be out here over the next 2 weeks or so. During my time in Europe last year, MOST of my shows were booked thanks to some very helpful artists in the areas I was visiting, so it's nice to be able to offer some help in return.
If you have time, you should certainly drop by to check out a show. Really nice tunes, and a great person too.
www.jennialpert.com
*THE GREEN MOHAIR SUITS - Album Launch.
The Green Mohair Suits is made up of a few friends, and they put on a killer show. They actually played at "For Peats Sake" a couple of years back, but since then have gone on to bigger and better things. I was at their launch last Sunday at the Fringe Bar, and the new album is well worth a listen if you are passing them in your travels.
www.myspace.com/thegreenmohairsuits
*CHRIS ARNOTT - "Conversations" Single Launch.
Chris has been a regular on the Sydney live circuit for some time, but also books the Fringe Bar AND plays bass with The Bakery.
Head on down this Sunday night to the Fringe Bar if you're free. He'll be launching a brand new single.
(That's if you're not going to Cronulla to see the Badloves of course..... )
www.myspace.com/christopherarnott
*CONGRATULATIONS
To Sydney band The Glass Ceiling, who recently scored a few support dates with You Am I! Good for them!
www.myspace.com/theglassceilingsydney
And Finally...
*SEE LIVE MUSIC!
It's good for you.
Cheers for now, and thanks for taking an interest.
Renny
"26 Reasons" and "Make Believe" available at www.rennyfield.com
"Renny Field Live" Album available at shows, or by email - renny@rennyfield.com
GIGS:
SUN MAY 3 - THE BRASS MONKEY, Cronulla
Supporting The Badloves.
Yes - that's the band that you can remember from the 1820's. (Minor exaggeration to achieve effect...)
Solo show - on stage 8pm.
Bookings and info - www.brassmonkey.com.au
WED MAY 6 - THE OLD MANLY BOATSHED
The Corso, Manly.
Solo show - on stage 9pm.
With Ruby for Lucy.
www.myspace.com/rubyforlucy
Info at www.songwriterslive.com.au
SUN MAY 10 - SUNSETS @ THE FRINGE BAR
106 Oxford Street, Paddington
Solo show - on stage 7pm.
With Ruby for Lucy.
Yes it's mothers day, but Mum would love it!
And it's only $8, which includes a Free Drink.
FRI MAY 15 - SUN MAY 17
WAGGA TOUR (To find the second Wagga).
Come along if you dare. Or just stop by and say g'day if you're in Wagga. Or Wagga.
In the final stages of confirming Venues and playing times.
Stay tuned to www.myspace.com/rennyfield
WED MAY 20 - BAR ME, KINGS CROSS
Solo Show, supporting Annaliese Szota's EP Launch.
I recorded a couple of tracks with Annaliese a while back which have made it on to her Debut EP.
Launches are always a good time, this one should be no different.
Solo show - on stage 9pm. Tix $10 at the Door.
SAT JUNE 13 - ACOUSTIC AND UNPLUGGED
BAR ME, KINGS CROSS.
WITH AMY VEE. www.amyvee.com
Note re this gig:
Amy is a friend of mine from Newcastle (also the Winner of the Music Oz Awards 2 years ago!), and we have decided to do this show WITHOUT the PA. It's a rare opportunity to bring the songs back to their rawest form - the way they were first created. Just the voice and the instrument. A bit like being in our living room or bedroom I suppose (although I promise I'll wear more clothing than my bedroom, especially after all the Easter Eggs I just got through....). Bar Me is a great space for this type of thing, and just about the only room in Sydney you could get away with doing it. It'll be a pretty special night, with Dinner available for advance bookings. We'll probably play a few together as well.
Phone (02) 9368 0894
FOR REGULAR GIG UPDATES and further info, Please keep an eye on www.myspace.com/rennyfield
--------------------------------------------
THE ALBUM:
Well I can reveal that the new album will be called THE ARENA, but I can also reveal that in the past two months I managed to pick up a killer throat infection, followed by the whooping cough (yes really), and a lingering flu thingy on the back of that. So there's been a slight hold up with applying the finish, but it's pretty close. And the hours and hours locked up in my little home studio appears to have produced something which might even be worth listening to. And for my first effort as a producer, that's all I was really hoping for. Stay tuned for release dates etc.
There are a few samplers up on myspace, and I am trying to rotate the songs on a regular basis.
www.myspace.com/rennyfield
--------------------------------------------
NOTICEBOARD:
*JENNI ALPERT - Touring from The USA
Last week I was contacted by a singer-songwriter from America who will be out here over the next 2 weeks or so. During my time in Europe last year, MOST of my shows were booked thanks to some very helpful artists in the areas I was visiting, so it's nice to be able to offer some help in return.
If you have time, you should certainly drop by to check out a show. Really nice tunes, and a great person too.
www.jennialpert.com
*THE GREEN MOHAIR SUITS - Album Launch.
The Green Mohair Suits is made up of a few friends, and they put on a killer show. They actually played at "For Peats Sake" a couple of years back, but since then have gone on to bigger and better things. I was at their launch last Sunday at the Fringe Bar, and the new album is well worth a listen if you are passing them in your travels.
www.myspace.com/thegreenmohairsuits
*CHRIS ARNOTT - "Conversations" Single Launch.
Chris has been a regular on the Sydney live circuit for some time, but also books the Fringe Bar AND plays bass with The Bakery.
Head on down this Sunday night to the Fringe Bar if you're free. He'll be launching a brand new single.
(That's if you're not going to Cronulla to see the Badloves of course..... )
www.myspace.com/christopherarnott
*CONGRATULATIONS
To Sydney band The Glass Ceiling, who recently scored a few support dates with You Am I! Good for them!
www.myspace.com/theglassceilingsydney
And Finally...
*SEE LIVE MUSIC!
It's good for you.
Cheers for now, and thanks for taking an interest.
Renny
"26 Reasons" and "Make Believe" available at www.rennyfield.com
"Renny Field Live" Album available at shows, or by email - renny@rennyfield.com
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 37
So there has been a bit of a break there... I apologise. I'll admit it - I gave myself a short holiday. Did I deserve it? Probably not. Could I afford it? Only because someone else was renting the house. Thanks to the Family! Would have been a perfect little getaway if it wasn't for the rocks that decided to attack my feet on my last day there. Not pretty, but I can still walk. Life's little way of reminding me that I am not Kelly Slater...
I was suprised to find, on my way out of Sydney, an old Wurlitzer Organ on the side of the Pacific Highway. One of the old things with the two keyboards, sound banks, bass pedals and volume pedal for the speaker. A D4030 I think is the model. I thought as I was driving past that it might be worth something... Which, as it turns out, it is not. Actually it seems to be a piece of crap, but i might be fun to use on a recording in the future some time (with a bit of restoration). I figure it must have looked amusing - strange bald bloke on the side of the highway wrestling with an old beaten-up organ trying to get it in the back of his old station wagon. Not to mention the 100m or so I had to drive the wrong way down the Pacific Highway against the flow of peak hour traffic. That was an interesting challenge.
I have hit the studio again - slowly working through the mixing of the Album, and it's going pretty well. All very time-consuming, but it'll only ever get faster I suppose. The lingering Flu is lifting, althought it doesn't seem to be in a great rush. I don't know how to accelerate the process, but I am trying to rest (which I am not very good at, as a rule).
A few good shows coming up with a trip to Wagga in the mix as well. Check out the gig list and pop on down if you can. Badloves this Sunday night at the Brass Monkey! Will they send a Green Limousine to pick me up? I think not... but it should be good fun.
See you all soon,
Renny
I was suprised to find, on my way out of Sydney, an old Wurlitzer Organ on the side of the Pacific Highway. One of the old things with the two keyboards, sound banks, bass pedals and volume pedal for the speaker. A D4030 I think is the model. I thought as I was driving past that it might be worth something... Which, as it turns out, it is not. Actually it seems to be a piece of crap, but i might be fun to use on a recording in the future some time (with a bit of restoration). I figure it must have looked amusing - strange bald bloke on the side of the highway wrestling with an old beaten-up organ trying to get it in the back of his old station wagon. Not to mention the 100m or so I had to drive the wrong way down the Pacific Highway against the flow of peak hour traffic. That was an interesting challenge.
I have hit the studio again - slowly working through the mixing of the Album, and it's going pretty well. All very time-consuming, but it'll only ever get faster I suppose. The lingering Flu is lifting, althought it doesn't seem to be in a great rush. I don't know how to accelerate the process, but I am trying to rest (which I am not very good at, as a rule).
A few good shows coming up with a trip to Wagga in the mix as well. Check out the gig list and pop on down if you can. Badloves this Sunday night at the Brass Monkey! Will they send a Green Limousine to pick me up? I think not... but it should be good fun.
See you all soon,
Renny
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 36
So on Sunday I drove out to Picton for a gig at the George IV Inn. I always find it sort of strange when pubs are named after departed Monarchs. I mean i can sort of get where they are coming from, but why did they pick George IV I wonder? What was wrong with the first 3? Was there more than 4? Did the 4th one cut off his wive's heads? No that was Henry. There was 8 of him. That's a lot of Henrys.
Anyway - the 90min drive was fairly uneventful as far as drives go, but I wasn't expecitng to find a biker pub awaiting my arrival. Yes a biker pub. Not bad bikies necessarily, just a popular motorbike touring stop.But you know the bikes - they have been in the news for the wrong reasons. So wrongly or rightly, there was a touch of apprehension when I pulled up in my 86 Toyota Corona and started to unload my gear wearing Thongs, Jeans, a T-Shirt and a Japanese Baseball Cap.
As it turned out, the gig wasn't really too bad. At least once I learned to deal with the sound of Harleys pulling in and out for the whole time I was there. Fortunately they made the most noise at the parts of the songs i have the most trouble singing. Which was fairly convenient. And you know what, apart from the racket I really didn't think I was playing too badly until, about half way through my 2nd set, there was a big commotion outside the entrance to the pub and everyone started running towards a ute.
As I was singing away, I managed to figure out what the problem was. A small dog had decided to jump off the back of the ute when he was still tied to it by his collar, hence tempoarily leaving himself suspended in mid-air, struggling to draw breath. I have had my knockers folks, but never before has any living creature decided that what I had to offer was SO bad, they would rather die than listen to the rest of my set. I do believe that's world first. If anyone else can claim to have had a dog attempt suicide at their gig, then please let me know. Maybe we can swap stories over a beer at the George IV Inn sometime.
After contemplating retirement the entire way home, I have decided to press on, knowing that the chances of running into my friend Fido from Picton are fairly slim from this point onwards. You may be interested to know, on a more positive note, that the humans at the pub didn't seem to mind what I was doing. Although I may have had to call on Crowded House once or twice...
Album News:
The Whooping Cough is gone, the Vocals are starting to come. Things are looking up folks. Things are looking up. Would you believe I may actually finish this thing at some point. Really!
Catch you soon,
Renny
Anyway - the 90min drive was fairly uneventful as far as drives go, but I wasn't expecitng to find a biker pub awaiting my arrival. Yes a biker pub. Not bad bikies necessarily, just a popular motorbike touring stop.But you know the bikes - they have been in the news for the wrong reasons. So wrongly or rightly, there was a touch of apprehension when I pulled up in my 86 Toyota Corona and started to unload my gear wearing Thongs, Jeans, a T-Shirt and a Japanese Baseball Cap.
As it turned out, the gig wasn't really too bad. At least once I learned to deal with the sound of Harleys pulling in and out for the whole time I was there. Fortunately they made the most noise at the parts of the songs i have the most trouble singing. Which was fairly convenient. And you know what, apart from the racket I really didn't think I was playing too badly until, about half way through my 2nd set, there was a big commotion outside the entrance to the pub and everyone started running towards a ute.
As I was singing away, I managed to figure out what the problem was. A small dog had decided to jump off the back of the ute when he was still tied to it by his collar, hence tempoarily leaving himself suspended in mid-air, struggling to draw breath. I have had my knockers folks, but never before has any living creature decided that what I had to offer was SO bad, they would rather die than listen to the rest of my set. I do believe that's world first. If anyone else can claim to have had a dog attempt suicide at their gig, then please let me know. Maybe we can swap stories over a beer at the George IV Inn sometime.
After contemplating retirement the entire way home, I have decided to press on, knowing that the chances of running into my friend Fido from Picton are fairly slim from this point onwards. You may be interested to know, on a more positive note, that the humans at the pub didn't seem to mind what I was doing. Although I may have had to call on Crowded House once or twice...
Album News:
The Whooping Cough is gone, the Vocals are starting to come. Things are looking up folks. Things are looking up. Would you believe I may actually finish this thing at some point. Really!
Catch you soon,
Renny
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 35
Just a short one this week folks to say thanks to everyone who came along last Friday night to the Supper Club. We had a great time, and it was good to have Kent Eastwood joining the band on Keys for a change. Not forgetting the beautiful Sam Buckingham on backing vocals, and Liz on the Viola. We are calling her "Eleventh Hour Liz", because she is always happy to play with very little notice. Liz, if you're reading this, I promise you'll get at least a week next time. You see I am trying to progress to a reasonable notice period, but as with my life in general it is a work in progress. "The Beautiful Shambles" would not be worthy of it's name unless it involved some sort of organisational challenges. in the week of the show We end up getting it together in the end - sort of.
Big ups to Peregrine - you guys rock. You've really gotta check them out. One of Sydney's best live bands. And I am a sucker for a good song - they've got a fair few of those. They'll be doing a late set at the Supper Club each Friday from now on (Thurs this week for the Easter Weekend).
Signing off for another week. The Album inches closer each day. Just applying the last few bits and pieces. I feel my voice is just about back to normal. This is exciting. Finally...
Catch you next time,
Renny
Big ups to Peregrine - you guys rock. You've really gotta check them out. One of Sydney's best live bands. And I am a sucker for a good song - they've got a fair few of those. They'll be doing a late set at the Supper Club each Friday from now on (Thurs this week for the Easter Weekend).
Signing off for another week. The Album inches closer each day. Just applying the last few bits and pieces. I feel my voice is just about back to normal. This is exciting. Finally...
Catch you next time,
Renny
Thursday, April 02, 2009
The Supper Club - This Friday 3rd April
Full band show from 8pm . Don't miss out!
Check the gig guide for info...
See you there.
Maybe.
If you come.
Which you should.
That's why I am writing this blog.
In the hope that I snare you at the last minute.
Which I probably won't.
But I decided to write it anyway.
Cheers!
Monday, March 30, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 34
logees - how are you? Nice to have all two of you with me again. I am assuming there that "Blogee" is the Oxford-English-Dictionary-Approved term for the reader of a Blog, but I haven't checked...
Here in the land of RHF, I am currently counting down the days till the commencement of the next decade of my existence. Those of you smart enough to join the dots will therefore be able to figure out how old I am, but that's cool by me. I dare say you might have been able to take a reasonable guess by looking at my hairline, which sadly decided to go into an early retirement several years ago. Well I say sadly, but it's saved me a hell of a lot of cash on hairdressers. And in a round-a-bout sort of way, I guess that has helped me afford to put together this next album. Which, by the way, is almost finished.... never thought I would see the day, but I am closing in...
For those of you who are interested, I have been posting another few sample songs this week. As with the prevous versions, these are Demo's of the new album before it goes into the final stages of production. This week, I decided to put a couple of favourites up - Molly Mae and the Birds. Both pretty different to the solo versions that have been in circulation to this point. You might be (a) Intrigued, (b) Surprised, (c) Confused. I am a combination of all those things myself, and I suppose a little bit proud too. Anyway see what you think.
THE SHOWS:
THIS FRIDAY 3RD APRIL - FULL BAND SHOW
THE SUPPER CLUB, 134 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst
Tickets available in advance on Moshtix - www.moshtix.com.au
Or at the door - $15.00.
This will be our last full band show before the album launch in the middle of the year.
Supported by James Blow from the Mischief in solo mode.
Music starts 8pm.
Note re this show:
This is also the first of Peregrine's "Late Sets" through April. They are one of my favourite local bands, and more importantly, a great bunch of blokes too. Peregrine will be hitting the stage after us at around 11pm. So it's a BIG Friday night of music for you all - come and be a part of it.
Check out Peregrine at www.myspace.com/playthings
SUNDAY 10TH MAY - SUNSETS AT THE FRINGE (Solo)
Fringe Bar, 106 Oxford Street, Paddington.
Supported by the Beautiful folk duo Ruby for Lucy.
www.myspace.com/rubyforlucy
Music from 6pm. Tix $8 at the door which includes a drink.
There may be a few more shows to add. As always, keep an eye on myspace for updates as they occur.
VIDEO CLIP:
We are in the early stages of putting together a film clip to accompany the release of the new album. It will be a fun sort of affair involving a pub and a crowd of some description.... Not really a gig, but sort of... Hard to explain. Anyway, without giving too much away, I thought I would check to see who would be interested in being a part of the crowd for the shoot. As I said, it's just in the early stages of production at the moment, but if you're keen to be involved it would be great to hear from you. Being independent an all, I can't offer any K-Rudd fiscal-stimulusesque cash handouts, just a chance to be a part of this little adventure, and probably a beer or two at the end of the day. Anyway please reply to this email if you think that's something that might interest you. More info to come.
NOTICEBOARD:
I am aware the noticeboard section has been missing for a while, but I am bringing it BACK. Just a small note this week about a show I went to last night at The Basement in Sydney. An Irish Singer-songwriter called Declan O'Rourke. A wonderful performer, and a really amazing songwriter - one of the best solo shows I have seen in quite some time. There is an intangible quality to Irish musicians that makes them real and engaging. A lack of pretence, a willingness to give themselves completely to their audience. He is big enough already, so I'm sure he doesn't need my help, but I reckon he's worth a listen if you're after some good new music for when you want to sit back, relax, and wind down:
www.declanorourke.com
TWITTER:
I have completed the final step towards online dependency. It is a sad day, but what can I do.....?
www.twitter.com/rennyfield
I'll try to post an update each day.
TALES FROM THE WEEKEND.
Bathurst and the Lost Tuxedo:
Friday night myself and my brother Matt (drums) went out for one of our Duo shows in Bathurst, which we play once every month or so. According to form, and in keeping with Field family tradition, we were late leaving the city and once again attempting to defy the Friday peak hour traffic gods in order to arrive on time for the show. As has been the case for all our gigs in Bathurst, the trip across the blue mountains was punctuated by a thick descending mist and a fairly decent amount of rain, not ideal for a 1986 Corona with severe traction problems and a missing headlight. Two thirds of the trip was also accompanied by a mysterious odour, something like the smell of coolant, being emitted from the engine of my car. Not fogetting the occaional burst of smoke, which I can't quite understand. This has been occuring for quite some time, but I continue to follow the "Ignore it and it will go away" theory for engine problems. To this point, it seems to be working. The going away part anyway, only it keeps coming back....
So anyway, we made it with 10min to spare. Which isn't really 10min to spare when you still have to unload the car and set up the PA and a drum kit, but the owner is an understanding sort of chap, and for that reason we love him, and we keep driving throught the rain once a month. As fate would have it, for some reason the microphone cable was missing. Not my microphone cable, the one belonging to the pub's PA system. And so ensued a wild goose chase round the streets of Bathurst to find a microphone cable, which we eventually borrowed from a pub up the road. Incidentally, I have accidentally returned to Sydney with said cable, and one of my tasks for this afternoon is to go to the post office and mail it back Express Post. Apparently the Sunday afternoon Bingo host was not a happy camper.
So the gig - when we eventually got away - was pretty cool. At least it started that way when the people were there... And slowly one by one through the course of the night they each departed. Until around 1am, when there was one person left, and we were still delivering the performance of a lifetime but at the same time wondering where it all went wrong...? It was halfway through the final song - to one person - that our audience member told us he thought the pub was closed. Not to worry, we finished the song anyway, only to discover that he was a friend of the bar staff, and in fact the pub had been closed for the last 15mins. Which roughly equates to 3 songs. I could spend I lifetime wondering why no-one bothered to inform the band that they could stop playing, but I'll just content myself with the fact that I have another great story to tell at my shows in the future (when they are attended by more that one person that is....). Was this the most tragic gig ever? No that would go to last year's solo show in Youghal on the South-east coast of Ireland, where for a period of 20mins I performed to an empty room. And I mean EMPTY. Not even the bar staff - they were serving people in at the other bar. Did I stop? No way. That was the best 20mins I have EVER played. Really. If only I had a way of proving it....
I should mention that my mother and grandparents attended the show in Bathurst, which was a nice surprise, and a nice opportunity to give them a rousing send-off when they left after the first few songs. There is something stangely fulfilling about watching your mother and grandparents waving to a pub full of wasted 20-somethings all going crazy for them.
So the gig finished, there was time for a few hours sleep at the Kings Hotel before a quick bite to eat in the morning and the trek back to Sydney across the mountains. The whole way back I was trying to think up a name for the new album (actually the whole way across I was doing that as well....) but to this point, I still haven't got it. Not to worry, it will come to me eventually.Taking suggestions...
So the lost Tuxedo... Well I didn't realise it was lost until 2.50pm when, after dropping my brother off and running a few errands in town, I arrived back at my house in Manly only to discover that it was not where I thought it would be. This was a problem, because the black tie wedding was due to start at 4pm. In the city.
It's funny, I had some sense that it would be missing on the drive home, but also some vague self-assurance from deep within that, even if it was missing, I would be able to get my hands on one somehow. This is another personality trait of the Field brothers - the ablility to make good in a seemingly helpless and chaotic situation. Most people would just avoid getting themselves into the helpless and chaootic situation in the first place, but that's not the way we work...
Anyway, I made a record of the sequence of events prior to getting to the wedding (in a Tuxedo). This might give you an interesting snapshot into a day in the life of Renny Field (it reads better if I describe it in the third person...).
2.50 Arrives in Manly and realises there is no Tux
2.55 Finds black pants
2.56 Miraculously discovers a formal shirt
2.57 Realises (tragically) that the shirt need cufflinks, but remembers that he used them at Shane's wedding and they might be in the same bag
2.58 Finds cufflinks in the last pocket of bag
2.59 Calls lifeline thrift store in Balgowlah who have black jackets
3.00 Shower, shave, change, including iron shirt.
3.10 Leave home in Manly
3.20 Find and purchase decent fitting jacket from the appropriately named "Lifeline" store amidst a sea of confused pensioners who think I have no chance of making the wedding.
3.21 Depart Balgowlah bound for the city for what should be a 30min drive on a good day.
3.21 - 3.44. Mark Webber is sighted on Military Road, Cremorne, attempting to attach cufflinks whilst speeding down the parking lane.
3.45 Arrive in city and get the last space in a cheap car park
3.55 Arrive at wedding in the Rocks with 5mins to spare.
3.56 Come to the realisation that I am an absolute legend.
3.56.02 Come to the realisation that I need to change the way I live my life
3.56.04 Come to the realisation that this is probably not possible.
4.00 - 12.00. Enjoy a great wedding. Looking like a millon bucks (or at least my version of a million bucks).
Sunday: ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Well done if you made it to here.
See you next week. Thanks for your continued support.
Renny
Here in the land of RHF, I am currently counting down the days till the commencement of the next decade of my existence. Those of you smart enough to join the dots will therefore be able to figure out how old I am, but that's cool by me. I dare say you might have been able to take a reasonable guess by looking at my hairline, which sadly decided to go into an early retirement several years ago. Well I say sadly, but it's saved me a hell of a lot of cash on hairdressers. And in a round-a-bout sort of way, I guess that has helped me afford to put together this next album. Which, by the way, is almost finished.... never thought I would see the day, but I am closing in...
For those of you who are interested, I have been posting another few sample songs this week. As with the prevous versions, these are Demo's of the new album before it goes into the final stages of production. This week, I decided to put a couple of favourites up - Molly Mae and the Birds. Both pretty different to the solo versions that have been in circulation to this point. You might be (a) Intrigued, (b) Surprised, (c) Confused. I am a combination of all those things myself, and I suppose a little bit proud too. Anyway see what you think.
THE SHOWS:
THIS FRIDAY 3RD APRIL - FULL BAND SHOW
THE SUPPER CLUB, 134 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst
Tickets available in advance on Moshtix - www.moshtix.com.au
Or at the door - $15.00.
This will be our last full band show before the album launch in the middle of the year.
Supported by James Blow from the Mischief in solo mode.
Music starts 8pm.
Note re this show:
This is also the first of Peregrine's "Late Sets" through April. They are one of my favourite local bands, and more importantly, a great bunch of blokes too. Peregrine will be hitting the stage after us at around 11pm. So it's a BIG Friday night of music for you all - come and be a part of it.
Check out Peregrine at www.myspace.com/playthings
SUNDAY 10TH MAY - SUNSETS AT THE FRINGE (Solo)
Fringe Bar, 106 Oxford Street, Paddington.
Supported by the Beautiful folk duo Ruby for Lucy.
www.myspace.com/rubyforlucy
Music from 6pm. Tix $8 at the door which includes a drink.
There may be a few more shows to add. As always, keep an eye on myspace for updates as they occur.
VIDEO CLIP:
We are in the early stages of putting together a film clip to accompany the release of the new album. It will be a fun sort of affair involving a pub and a crowd of some description.... Not really a gig, but sort of... Hard to explain. Anyway, without giving too much away, I thought I would check to see who would be interested in being a part of the crowd for the shoot. As I said, it's just in the early stages of production at the moment, but if you're keen to be involved it would be great to hear from you. Being independent an all, I can't offer any K-Rudd fiscal-stimulusesque cash handouts, just a chance to be a part of this little adventure, and probably a beer or two at the end of the day. Anyway please reply to this email if you think that's something that might interest you. More info to come.
NOTICEBOARD:
I am aware the noticeboard section has been missing for a while, but I am bringing it BACK. Just a small note this week about a show I went to last night at The Basement in Sydney. An Irish Singer-songwriter called Declan O'Rourke. A wonderful performer, and a really amazing songwriter - one of the best solo shows I have seen in quite some time. There is an intangible quality to Irish musicians that makes them real and engaging. A lack of pretence, a willingness to give themselves completely to their audience. He is big enough already, so I'm sure he doesn't need my help, but I reckon he's worth a listen if you're after some good new music for when you want to sit back, relax, and wind down:
www.declanorourke.com
TWITTER:
I have completed the final step towards online dependency. It is a sad day, but what can I do.....?
www.twitter.com/rennyfield
I'll try to post an update each day.
TALES FROM THE WEEKEND.
Bathurst and the Lost Tuxedo:
Friday night myself and my brother Matt (drums) went out for one of our Duo shows in Bathurst, which we play once every month or so. According to form, and in keeping with Field family tradition, we were late leaving the city and once again attempting to defy the Friday peak hour traffic gods in order to arrive on time for the show. As has been the case for all our gigs in Bathurst, the trip across the blue mountains was punctuated by a thick descending mist and a fairly decent amount of rain, not ideal for a 1986 Corona with severe traction problems and a missing headlight. Two thirds of the trip was also accompanied by a mysterious odour, something like the smell of coolant, being emitted from the engine of my car. Not fogetting the occaional burst of smoke, which I can't quite understand. This has been occuring for quite some time, but I continue to follow the "Ignore it and it will go away" theory for engine problems. To this point, it seems to be working. The going away part anyway, only it keeps coming back....
So anyway, we made it with 10min to spare. Which isn't really 10min to spare when you still have to unload the car and set up the PA and a drum kit, but the owner is an understanding sort of chap, and for that reason we love him, and we keep driving throught the rain once a month. As fate would have it, for some reason the microphone cable was missing. Not my microphone cable, the one belonging to the pub's PA system. And so ensued a wild goose chase round the streets of Bathurst to find a microphone cable, which we eventually borrowed from a pub up the road. Incidentally, I have accidentally returned to Sydney with said cable, and one of my tasks for this afternoon is to go to the post office and mail it back Express Post. Apparently the Sunday afternoon Bingo host was not a happy camper.
So the gig - when we eventually got away - was pretty cool. At least it started that way when the people were there... And slowly one by one through the course of the night they each departed. Until around 1am, when there was one person left, and we were still delivering the performance of a lifetime but at the same time wondering where it all went wrong...? It was halfway through the final song - to one person - that our audience member told us he thought the pub was closed. Not to worry, we finished the song anyway, only to discover that he was a friend of the bar staff, and in fact the pub had been closed for the last 15mins. Which roughly equates to 3 songs. I could spend I lifetime wondering why no-one bothered to inform the band that they could stop playing, but I'll just content myself with the fact that I have another great story to tell at my shows in the future (when they are attended by more that one person that is....). Was this the most tragic gig ever? No that would go to last year's solo show in Youghal on the South-east coast of Ireland, where for a period of 20mins I performed to an empty room. And I mean EMPTY. Not even the bar staff - they were serving people in at the other bar. Did I stop? No way. That was the best 20mins I have EVER played. Really. If only I had a way of proving it....
I should mention that my mother and grandparents attended the show in Bathurst, which was a nice surprise, and a nice opportunity to give them a rousing send-off when they left after the first few songs. There is something stangely fulfilling about watching your mother and grandparents waving to a pub full of wasted 20-somethings all going crazy for them.
So the gig finished, there was time for a few hours sleep at the Kings Hotel before a quick bite to eat in the morning and the trek back to Sydney across the mountains. The whole way back I was trying to think up a name for the new album (actually the whole way across I was doing that as well....) but to this point, I still haven't got it. Not to worry, it will come to me eventually.Taking suggestions...
So the lost Tuxedo... Well I didn't realise it was lost until 2.50pm when, after dropping my brother off and running a few errands in town, I arrived back at my house in Manly only to discover that it was not where I thought it would be. This was a problem, because the black tie wedding was due to start at 4pm. In the city.
It's funny, I had some sense that it would be missing on the drive home, but also some vague self-assurance from deep within that, even if it was missing, I would be able to get my hands on one somehow. This is another personality trait of the Field brothers - the ablility to make good in a seemingly helpless and chaotic situation. Most people would just avoid getting themselves into the helpless and chaootic situation in the first place, but that's not the way we work...
Anyway, I made a record of the sequence of events prior to getting to the wedding (in a Tuxedo). This might give you an interesting snapshot into a day in the life of Renny Field (it reads better if I describe it in the third person...).
2.50 Arrives in Manly and realises there is no Tux
2.55 Finds black pants
2.56 Miraculously discovers a formal shirt
2.57 Realises (tragically) that the shirt need cufflinks, but remembers that he used them at Shane's wedding and they might be in the same bag
2.58 Finds cufflinks in the last pocket of bag
2.59 Calls lifeline thrift store in Balgowlah who have black jackets
3.00 Shower, shave, change, including iron shirt.
3.10 Leave home in Manly
3.20 Find and purchase decent fitting jacket from the appropriately named "Lifeline" store amidst a sea of confused pensioners who think I have no chance of making the wedding.
3.21 Depart Balgowlah bound for the city for what should be a 30min drive on a good day.
3.21 - 3.44. Mark Webber is sighted on Military Road, Cremorne, attempting to attach cufflinks whilst speeding down the parking lane.
3.45 Arrive in city and get the last space in a cheap car park
3.55 Arrive at wedding in the Rocks with 5mins to spare.
3.56 Come to the realisation that I am an absolute legend.
3.56.02 Come to the realisation that I need to change the way I live my life
3.56.04 Come to the realisation that this is probably not possible.
4.00 - 12.00. Enjoy a great wedding. Looking like a millon bucks (or at least my version of a million bucks).
Sunday: ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Well done if you made it to here.
See you next week. Thanks for your continued support.
Renny
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 33
Volume 33. All the 3's. You know I was at a bingo night the other night, but I didn't play. Based on the look on everyone's faces, it didn't seem like I was missing out on a great deal. That said, I have played Bingo before and I have to admit I kinda liked. In a "I shouldn't really be liking this but I can't help be excited by the mind-numbing simplicity and why the hell can't you just draw my numbers already" kind of way.
Yesterday I bought a 10kg BUCKET of Acai. It's a Brazilian Fruit that you can only store frozen, so I have had to remove two of the shelves in the freezer just to fit it in. Why did I buy a 10kg bucket you ask? Because it's AWESOME. When I was in Brazil, I bought an Acai every morning for breakfast and never felt better. Then I didn't see it for years, and all of a sudden it showed up in Oz. So I found the wholesaler, and went and bought a bucket. And now I can whip it up each day for breakfast with a bit of Banana and Granola. Once you've tried it, nothing else compares. Seriously. It's that good. Try it for yourself. Or come round and join me one morning.
It would be nice if the Brazilian fruit also gave me a Brazilian sense of rhythm so I could dance, but somehow I don't think that's going to happen. I don't just have two left feet, I have about ten of them.
Album News - progress! Progress progress progress. Nothing but progress. Fast? Slow? I can't ever tell, but listening now it is getting pretty close. Aside from the Vocals of course which are all scratch efforts sung with the mother of all throat bugs. It had me for a while, but it's just about GONE. Which is a relief.
I am disappointed that my $900 bonus is under threat from a mad legal professor who has watched one too many episodes of the castle. But I am hoping that common sense prevails and the Hig Court will realise that paying for my CD's to be pressed is a sure-fire way to stave of the Australian recession.
Finally, if you're bored, you might want to log on to Mosthix, do a search for my name, and grab yourself a few tickets to our full band show on Friday 3rd April.
www.moshtix.com.au
And if you're not bored, you might want to do it anyway. Or you might not. Which is fine too.
Last full band show before the Album launch methinks.
See you soon.
Renny
PS - A new track up this week - "Jigsaw". If you listen at the start, you will hear that I do in fact throw a Jigsaw on the kitchen floor on the recording. And I really hope you like how it sounds, because after throwing all 1000 pieces in front of the microphone, it took me fricking ages to pick them up again.
Yesterday I bought a 10kg BUCKET of Acai. It's a Brazilian Fruit that you can only store frozen, so I have had to remove two of the shelves in the freezer just to fit it in. Why did I buy a 10kg bucket you ask? Because it's AWESOME. When I was in Brazil, I bought an Acai every morning for breakfast and never felt better. Then I didn't see it for years, and all of a sudden it showed up in Oz. So I found the wholesaler, and went and bought a bucket. And now I can whip it up each day for breakfast with a bit of Banana and Granola. Once you've tried it, nothing else compares. Seriously. It's that good. Try it for yourself. Or come round and join me one morning.
It would be nice if the Brazilian fruit also gave me a Brazilian sense of rhythm so I could dance, but somehow I don't think that's going to happen. I don't just have two left feet, I have about ten of them.
Album News - progress! Progress progress progress. Nothing but progress. Fast? Slow? I can't ever tell, but listening now it is getting pretty close. Aside from the Vocals of course which are all scratch efforts sung with the mother of all throat bugs. It had me for a while, but it's just about GONE. Which is a relief.
I am disappointed that my $900 bonus is under threat from a mad legal professor who has watched one too many episodes of the castle. But I am hoping that common sense prevails and the Hig Court will realise that paying for my CD's to be pressed is a sure-fire way to stave of the Australian recession.
Finally, if you're bored, you might want to log on to Mosthix, do a search for my name, and grab yourself a few tickets to our full band show on Friday 3rd April.
www.moshtix.com.au
And if you're not bored, you might want to do it anyway. Or you might not. Which is fine too.
Last full band show before the Album launch methinks.
See you soon.
Renny
PS - A new track up this week - "Jigsaw". If you listen at the start, you will hear that I do in fact throw a Jigsaw on the kitchen floor on the recording. And I really hope you like how it sounds, because after throwing all 1000 pieces in front of the microphone, it took me fricking ages to pick them up again.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 32
Hello!
So I have put another couple of songs up this week. I have decided not to leave them up for any longer than a week - just a bit of a sample for the time being. I'll leave the tracks up there once they are released properly with the album. Anyway these are not "new" songs in the truest sense of the word. They are probably a couple of years old in fact, but they are new recordings of these songs for the new album. Because they've never been released you see - and that is sort of the point isn't it....?
Played a wonderful show on the "Woojam" stage at the Blue Mountains Folk Festival on the weekend. They really are a fantastic bunch of people those Woojammers. I am lucky to know them. One of those "right place at the right time" situations - who would have thought a tiny little underground bar in Kings Cross on a Monday night would be the source of so many hidden treasures.
The only problem with my show on Saturday night was that I had to drive from Sydney to Newcastle and back to Katoomba before hitting the stage. Not so much a problem perhaps but a minor inconvenience I think it would be fair to say... Anyway it was a friend's wedding so what could I do. It's not every day your friend get's married in Newcastle on the same day you have a show in Katoomba. I think I can safely say that was probably a one-off (fingers crossed...). Great wedding, great gig, not-so-great drive. To amuse myself in the car, I changed some of my old albums into brand new Jewel Cases. As I asked a friend earlier tonight, why do they call them Jewel Cases? Which part of the case is a Jewel? And why if they are such "Jewels" do they damage so easily? Anyway that is beside the point - I have new merch! Although that's a bit like the songs isn't it. Not "new" really. Just old stuff dressed up as new.
Alas, that appears to be the direction my life is headed.... Better find myself a decent fashion consultant.
Cheers for now,
Renny "Bringing back the ramble" Field.
x
So I have put another couple of songs up this week. I have decided not to leave them up for any longer than a week - just a bit of a sample for the time being. I'll leave the tracks up there once they are released properly with the album. Anyway these are not "new" songs in the truest sense of the word. They are probably a couple of years old in fact, but they are new recordings of these songs for the new album. Because they've never been released you see - and that is sort of the point isn't it....?
Played a wonderful show on the "Woojam" stage at the Blue Mountains Folk Festival on the weekend. They really are a fantastic bunch of people those Woojammers. I am lucky to know them. One of those "right place at the right time" situations - who would have thought a tiny little underground bar in Kings Cross on a Monday night would be the source of so many hidden treasures.
The only problem with my show on Saturday night was that I had to drive from Sydney to Newcastle and back to Katoomba before hitting the stage. Not so much a problem perhaps but a minor inconvenience I think it would be fair to say... Anyway it was a friend's wedding so what could I do. It's not every day your friend get's married in Newcastle on the same day you have a show in Katoomba. I think I can safely say that was probably a one-off (fingers crossed...). Great wedding, great gig, not-so-great drive. To amuse myself in the car, I changed some of my old albums into brand new Jewel Cases. As I asked a friend earlier tonight, why do they call them Jewel Cases? Which part of the case is a Jewel? And why if they are such "Jewels" do they damage so easily? Anyway that is beside the point - I have new merch! Although that's a bit like the songs isn't it. Not "new" really. Just old stuff dressed up as new.
Alas, that appears to be the direction my life is headed.... Better find myself a decent fashion consultant.
Cheers for now,
Renny "Bringing back the ramble" Field.
x
Sunday, March 08, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 31
Hello again everyone - not much new to report this past week, but plenty more done on the album, and I have posted a couple of rough mixes up for you. One of them you will recognise (Crossfire) as I have had it on my profile for about the last 2 years.... This version is with the full band.
The other one (The Edge) is pretty new - never been recorded before, but we have been playing it live for about a year or so. Anyway as I said they are just rough mixes, but a bit of variation there, and both fairly different to the song I posted last week. See what you think...
Sadly the throat bug is still lingering which is holding up the process a bit, but I am assuming it will eventually disappear. Probably would go quicker if I wasn't up late writing blogs on myspace... And on that note, I might keep this brief and hit the hay.
Thanks to those who came along and had a listen at the Sando - a quiet night, but really enjoyed it. Manly and the Blue Mountains this week. Might see you there...
Cheers for now,
Renny
The other one (The Edge) is pretty new - never been recorded before, but we have been playing it live for about a year or so. Anyway as I said they are just rough mixes, but a bit of variation there, and both fairly different to the song I posted last week. See what you think...
Sadly the throat bug is still lingering which is holding up the process a bit, but I am assuming it will eventually disappear. Probably would go quicker if I wasn't up late writing blogs on myspace... And on that note, I might keep this brief and hit the hay.
Thanks to those who came along and had a listen at the Sando - a quiet night, but really enjoyed it. Manly and the Blue Mountains this week. Might see you there...
Cheers for now,
Renny
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 30. New Songs!
(Wow the internet connection just froze, and I managed to copy the text a split second before the screen went blank... Good thing too because there is NO WAY I was re-typing this... Phew that was close).
Well hello again peoples... How you doing out there? My slow descent
into the world of madness appears to be gathering momentum up here in
recording land. I would say it's worrying, but I kind of enjoyed it.
You might remember a couple of weeks ago I set the "Volume 28
Challenge". Well I am pleased to announce that a song has been finished
for you myspace faithful who bothered to reply to the blog. And instead
of there being a "winner", I decided that you all deserved a place for
being the type of people who would respond to my bizarre ramblings in
the first instance. Muchos creditos to you all.
So, the song is called "If it takes all night". I've managed to do a
rough recording in between the album tracking - just acoustic guitar
and vocals. It began as a song about a busker (let's say his name is
Neil Diamond), then somehow progressed into a song about the creative
process, about writing a song in fact, and the good that comes out of
that - how the music can keep you heading in the right direction.
Coincidentally I also managed to finish the song in the first person -
not exactly sure how that happened, but when you're trying to
incorporate a cramped trip to Eastbourne into a rock song you have to
accept that the art is going to take you where it takes you. I do
remember someone asking me to write a song about writing a song about
Neil Diamond... Well I suppose this is sort of it... In a round-a-bout
sort of way. And for that person who asked for "A touch of random" (I
think that was it), well you could say this is exactly what you asked
for... Anyway here are the lyrics - see if you can pick up where your
suggestion came into play. (My apologies to the Vegan butcher - he had
to be left out. But then again he never really existed in the first
place, so I guess that makes perfect sense....).
"If it takes all night". Renny Field. March 2009.
Down on the corner, on the wrong side of town
you're singing the spare change blues for your next pair of shoes
making it work somehow
Up on the high road, they never look down
But you can play those fools, you can bend their rules
just by making your own sound
CHORUS
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side.
Working the corner of some cheap-ass hotel
you're wearing your heart on your sleeve and the folks never leave
cause you got 'em under your spell
Yeah I've seen the fakes come and go, but if there's one thing I know
You'll never be worried about the Diamonds
when you're harnessing the gold
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side.
Yeah I know the road is long, but you can see the world with just one song
It's a funny sort of beast that you're taming,
But the beast won't do you wrong.
Yeah you know the stars still shine
even when you're standing in the bread line
And that Eastbourne Express sounds like a hell of a mess
But I'm sure it was worth the ride
(Cool guitar solo)
Yeah I know the road is long, but that road is gonna make us strong
Through the wind and the rain, I'll drive all the same
Cause that shit keeps me keeping on.
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and the occasional bit of luck on our side
If it takes all night, we can makes this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side
On our side.
---------
And there you go - I suppose "we" refers to you and me. You being the
people who helped me write the song in the first place. Random it might
bem but who knows with some drums, bass and a few backing vocals we
could be on to something here.... If you need a more detailed
explanation of what's going on with the lyrics, please don't hesitate
to ask. I've got buckley's of being able to explain it to you, but I'll
try!
----------
IN OTHER NEWS....
Well after much deliberation, I have decided to start putting some of
the rough mixes from the album up between now and when it is released.
Seeing as we're on the subject of new songs, I thought I would start
this week. So that means 2 NEW SONGS in the one week! Sounds crazy I
know, but hey I'm a crazy sort of guy.
So this first sampler from the new album is called "Love Potion".
Stay tuned for some more samples in coming weeks. I won't say how
regular they'll be or otherwise. I'll just try to put a new one up for
a few days every now and then. If you stay tuned, then you won't miss
'em!
(And that way you'll be able to check out the upcoming shows as well... If you want to of course....).
See you soon,
Renny
Well hello again peoples... How you doing out there? My slow descent
into the world of madness appears to be gathering momentum up here in
recording land. I would say it's worrying, but I kind of enjoyed it.
You might remember a couple of weeks ago I set the "Volume 28
Challenge". Well I am pleased to announce that a song has been finished
for you myspace faithful who bothered to reply to the blog. And instead
of there being a "winner", I decided that you all deserved a place for
being the type of people who would respond to my bizarre ramblings in
the first instance. Muchos creditos to you all.
So, the song is called "If it takes all night". I've managed to do a
rough recording in between the album tracking - just acoustic guitar
and vocals. It began as a song about a busker (let's say his name is
Neil Diamond), then somehow progressed into a song about the creative
process, about writing a song in fact, and the good that comes out of
that - how the music can keep you heading in the right direction.
Coincidentally I also managed to finish the song in the first person -
not exactly sure how that happened, but when you're trying to
incorporate a cramped trip to Eastbourne into a rock song you have to
accept that the art is going to take you where it takes you. I do
remember someone asking me to write a song about writing a song about
Neil Diamond... Well I suppose this is sort of it... In a round-a-bout
sort of way. And for that person who asked for "A touch of random" (I
think that was it), well you could say this is exactly what you asked
for... Anyway here are the lyrics - see if you can pick up where your
suggestion came into play. (My apologies to the Vegan butcher - he had
to be left out. But then again he never really existed in the first
place, so I guess that makes perfect sense....).
"If it takes all night". Renny Field. March 2009.
Down on the corner, on the wrong side of town
you're singing the spare change blues for your next pair of shoes
making it work somehow
Up on the high road, they never look down
But you can play those fools, you can bend their rules
just by making your own sound
CHORUS
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side.
Working the corner of some cheap-ass hotel
you're wearing your heart on your sleeve and the folks never leave
cause you got 'em under your spell
Yeah I've seen the fakes come and go, but if there's one thing I know
You'll never be worried about the Diamonds
when you're harnessing the gold
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side.
Yeah I know the road is long, but you can see the world with just one song
It's a funny sort of beast that you're taming,
But the beast won't do you wrong.
Yeah you know the stars still shine
even when you're standing in the bread line
And that Eastbourne Express sounds like a hell of a mess
But I'm sure it was worth the ride
(Cool guitar solo)
Yeah I know the road is long, but that road is gonna make us strong
Through the wind and the rain, I'll drive all the same
Cause that shit keeps me keeping on.
If it takes all night, we can make this right
With a little bit of hope and the occasional bit of luck on our side
If it takes all night, we can makes this right
With a little bit of hope and a little bit of love on our side
On our side.
---------
And there you go - I suppose "we" refers to you and me. You being the
people who helped me write the song in the first place. Random it might
bem but who knows with some drums, bass and a few backing vocals we
could be on to something here.... If you need a more detailed
explanation of what's going on with the lyrics, please don't hesitate
to ask. I've got buckley's of being able to explain it to you, but I'll
try!
----------
IN OTHER NEWS....
Well after much deliberation, I have decided to start putting some of
the rough mixes from the album up between now and when it is released.
Seeing as we're on the subject of new songs, I thought I would start
this week. So that means 2 NEW SONGS in the one week! Sounds crazy I
know, but hey I'm a crazy sort of guy.
So this first sampler from the new album is called "Love Potion".
Stay tuned for some more samples in coming weeks. I won't say how
regular they'll be or otherwise. I'll just try to put a new one up for
a few days every now and then. If you stay tuned, then you won't miss
'em!
(And that way you'll be able to check out the upcoming shows as well... If you want to of course....).
See you soon,
Renny
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 29
So I continue to battle away up here in recording land. I can't figure out why it takes so long sometimes to complete the most inane tasks. Little doodling guitar parts, the takes, the retakes, the rethinks, the retrys... It's a bit crazy. I figure if you ever want to get someone committed, just send them off to a house in the country by themselves with a bunch of recording gear and tell them to make an album. There's a better than even chance they'll drive themselves insane. Fortuantely my slip into the land of madness is currently being tempered as a result of me being heavily sedated by antibiotics. This must be the first time in years that I have actually had two weeks "off", and then lo and behold I manage to get a throat infection. I don't need to tell you that this makes the recording of an album fairly problematic at best. Unless I was trying to do a Louis Armstrong tribute record of course. But unfortunately I am not. I am trying to do a Renny Field record. And I don't think I sound like Louis Armstrong. At least not yet anyway.
In more positive news, it looks like I will be receiving a cheque for $900 some time in the near future. And whilst I completely disagree with the concept of handing out cash to fix the economy, I would like to thank Kevin Rudd for paying for the first run of copies of the new album. Who needs a recording contract when you've got the Australian goverment.
So that's the buzz. Word out.
PS. Assuming I have recovered in time, there is a show this Wednesday which is worth checking out. Have a look at the gig guide.
PPS. Cough cough cough
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 28
**The Volume 28 Challenge**
I will be taking suggestions for the topic of a new song, and I need your ideas. The winner will be announced with the song in 2 weeks time. So all you need to do is comment on this blog with your suggestion, and I will post the new tune along with The Weekly Volume 30. Hey it might be terrible, but it will be good fun. Which is sort of the point. I am not sure if anyone will actually read this in time, but in that case I will write the song about a musician who posts blogs on myspace that no-one ever reads. That will almost definitely be terrible, but it will still be fun. Possibly...
Random ideas more than welcome.
OK moving on...
A story for you all...
The other day I was catching a bus into the city, and there were THREE cameras on the thing. Three! Plus there was a TV screen rotating between the three cameras just to remind everyone they were being filmed. Could someone please explain to me why it is necessary to film a bus-load of pensioners and out of work musicians at lunchtime on a Tuesday? It felt like a scene out of the movie "Speed" - you know the one where the bus has to stay at 50 miles per hour. Only there was no Sandra Bullock for me to save. Which was a shame really, because it was one of those rare situations where the out of work musician may have stood a chance. But yeah - three cameras. How about that. I suppose this is the sort of society we live in. Bugger.
Might mention a gig coming up at the end of the month - you should come along if you're free. It'll be great:
Wed 25 Feb. The Excelsior Hotel. 64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills.
Supporting Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys.
Solo show. Doors open 8pm. Tix $12.
Renny on stage at 10pm.
Sam and Sarah have been doing a residency each Wednesday in February. I went last week and it was a cracker. It's really nice of them to ask me to play the final spot of the month. Can't wait.
Not a whole lot to report this week (as you may have been able to tell). Recording is still ticking along pretty nicely. I'll start to put a few rough mixes up soon.
In summing up, it's been emotional.
I'll do my best to raise the bar for Volume 29. Promise.
Cheerio
I will be taking suggestions for the topic of a new song, and I need your ideas. The winner will be announced with the song in 2 weeks time. So all you need to do is comment on this blog with your suggestion, and I will post the new tune along with The Weekly Volume 30. Hey it might be terrible, but it will be good fun. Which is sort of the point. I am not sure if anyone will actually read this in time, but in that case I will write the song about a musician who posts blogs on myspace that no-one ever reads. That will almost definitely be terrible, but it will still be fun. Possibly...
Random ideas more than welcome.
OK moving on...
A story for you all...
The other day I was catching a bus into the city, and there were THREE cameras on the thing. Three! Plus there was a TV screen rotating between the three cameras just to remind everyone they were being filmed. Could someone please explain to me why it is necessary to film a bus-load of pensioners and out of work musicians at lunchtime on a Tuesday? It felt like a scene out of the movie "Speed" - you know the one where the bus has to stay at 50 miles per hour. Only there was no Sandra Bullock for me to save. Which was a shame really, because it was one of those rare situations where the out of work musician may have stood a chance. But yeah - three cameras. How about that. I suppose this is the sort of society we live in. Bugger.
Might mention a gig coming up at the end of the month - you should come along if you're free. It'll be great:
Wed 25 Feb. The Excelsior Hotel. 64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills.
Supporting Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys.
Solo show. Doors open 8pm. Tix $12.
Renny on stage at 10pm.
Sam and Sarah have been doing a residency each Wednesday in February. I went last week and it was a cracker. It's really nice of them to ask me to play the final spot of the month. Can't wait.
Not a whole lot to report this week (as you may have been able to tell). Recording is still ticking along pretty nicely. I'll start to put a few rough mixes up soon.
In summing up, it's been emotional.
I'll do my best to raise the bar for Volume 29. Promise.
Cheerio
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 27
Hola.
Again not so much of a weekly when it takes 3 weeks between entries, but there you go... It is now 2.30am and I have just finished a marathon day of recording. It feels good to be making progress, but I am not sure how effective I am at this time of night. And I don't have a clue why I thought it was a good idea to write a blog at 2.30 in the morning. But then again a lot of my ideas are like that - completely against the laws of common sense. That's just the way I fly sometimes. Take it or leave it.
It's been a fairly productive last few weeks. There was a trip to Tamworth for some shows with Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys. Only Sarah got sick at the last minute, so it was just me and Sam.Which wasn't so bad was it Sam? (I have it on good authority that Sarah is now back to full voice!).
As it turned out, there were a bunch of other people we knew floating around in Tamworth so a few of them were able to join us on stage as well. Which was great. I managed to drive up through the night after a very important game of ultimate frisbee (of course they are all important that's why they call it "Ultimate"). As I was approaching Tamworth, it turned out that Barack Obama was being sworn in, so that was a little moment in history that I was able to enjoy at 4am in the morning somewhere on the New England highway whilst looking for the next 24hr servo with a coffee machine. I think that's one of those "Can you remember where you were" moments. The first black president of the US of A. Well Baz (that's what we'd call you here in Oz), I was with ya. You kept me awake through the lonely miles en route to the golden guitar. So already you have done me a great service, and that was before you got the green light on your financial stimlus package. Good on you.
Speaking of stimulus packages, seeing as I mentioned you on my blog, do you think out of the 1 Trillion dollars that you might be able to throw me a spare $20,000 to go on a world tour once I've finished this album? I'll let you think that one over Baz, I know that times are tough.
So why have I started writing this directly to the US President anyway? Because it's 2.30 in the morning folks. Now where was I?
Yeah - Tamworth. I rather like the Country Music Scene. If you can get over the apparent fascination with backing tracks (which mostly sound like the Karaoke machine at the Pickled Possum) then it's a really great environment for music. I find the country music crowd is more inclined to find something to like about you before they start tearing strips out of you. Contrast that with a few other music scenes (sneaker rock perhaps), and it's pretty refreshing. Makes for a nice environment to play your tunes. Even though Sam and I are not really country, people appreciated what we had to offer. Just as they did last year. So whenever I can, I'll make the pilgrimage to Tamworth - that's the point I was trying to make. And if you haven't been, then I would recommend it. Even just once to say you did.
After Tamworth we played one of the more inspiring shows I have played in a long long while. A good friend of ours Kent Eastwood had set up a gig at the Chapel Theatre in Glen Innes - about 2 hours further north. Along the same highway, but without Barack Obama's encouragement this time. The Chapel theatre was, as the name suggests, an old Chapel that head been converted (into a theatre.... but I guess you got that already....), and it was just magic. Kent, Sam and myself all played a few songs each, then joined each other for a full set after the interval. Yes that's right there was an interval. How good is that. And in true country-style, there were home made cakes and biscuits to eat with our Tea and Coffee. Now that sort of stuff doesn't happen at the hopetoun. Say nothing of the feast that the Eastwoods prepared for lunch that day. Or the bullsh... accomodation that we were provided with. Too good for words. Soul food. Soul food. Certainly made the 8hr drive back to Sydney a lot easier. Gold Jerry.
So it's now 2.43 .And that's about all from me. The shows have died down a little whilst I try to concentrate on getting this record finished off. I can tell you that it's going to be 14 tracks. If you're interested that is. It's slowly starting to sound like something you would listen to. Which is I sort of the point I suppose. It's just that for a while there, I wondered if it ever would....
Goodnight. Adieu. See you soon.
Renny
Again not so much of a weekly when it takes 3 weeks between entries, but there you go... It is now 2.30am and I have just finished a marathon day of recording. It feels good to be making progress, but I am not sure how effective I am at this time of night. And I don't have a clue why I thought it was a good idea to write a blog at 2.30 in the morning. But then again a lot of my ideas are like that - completely against the laws of common sense. That's just the way I fly sometimes. Take it or leave it.
It's been a fairly productive last few weeks. There was a trip to Tamworth for some shows with Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys. Only Sarah got sick at the last minute, so it was just me and Sam.Which wasn't so bad was it Sam? (I have it on good authority that Sarah is now back to full voice!).
As it turned out, there were a bunch of other people we knew floating around in Tamworth so a few of them were able to join us on stage as well. Which was great. I managed to drive up through the night after a very important game of ultimate frisbee (of course they are all important that's why they call it "Ultimate"). As I was approaching Tamworth, it turned out that Barack Obama was being sworn in, so that was a little moment in history that I was able to enjoy at 4am in the morning somewhere on the New England highway whilst looking for the next 24hr servo with a coffee machine. I think that's one of those "Can you remember where you were" moments. The first black president of the US of A. Well Baz (that's what we'd call you here in Oz), I was with ya. You kept me awake through the lonely miles en route to the golden guitar. So already you have done me a great service, and that was before you got the green light on your financial stimlus package. Good on you.
Speaking of stimulus packages, seeing as I mentioned you on my blog, do you think out of the 1 Trillion dollars that you might be able to throw me a spare $20,000 to go on a world tour once I've finished this album? I'll let you think that one over Baz, I know that times are tough.
So why have I started writing this directly to the US President anyway? Because it's 2.30 in the morning folks. Now where was I?
Yeah - Tamworth. I rather like the Country Music Scene. If you can get over the apparent fascination with backing tracks (which mostly sound like the Karaoke machine at the Pickled Possum) then it's a really great environment for music. I find the country music crowd is more inclined to find something to like about you before they start tearing strips out of you. Contrast that with a few other music scenes (sneaker rock perhaps), and it's pretty refreshing. Makes for a nice environment to play your tunes. Even though Sam and I are not really country, people appreciated what we had to offer. Just as they did last year. So whenever I can, I'll make the pilgrimage to Tamworth - that's the point I was trying to make. And if you haven't been, then I would recommend it. Even just once to say you did.
After Tamworth we played one of the more inspiring shows I have played in a long long while. A good friend of ours Kent Eastwood had set up a gig at the Chapel Theatre in Glen Innes - about 2 hours further north. Along the same highway, but without Barack Obama's encouragement this time. The Chapel theatre was, as the name suggests, an old Chapel that head been converted (into a theatre.... but I guess you got that already....), and it was just magic. Kent, Sam and myself all played a few songs each, then joined each other for a full set after the interval. Yes that's right there was an interval. How good is that. And in true country-style, there were home made cakes and biscuits to eat with our Tea and Coffee. Now that sort of stuff doesn't happen at the hopetoun. Say nothing of the feast that the Eastwoods prepared for lunch that day. Or the bullsh... accomodation that we were provided with. Too good for words. Soul food. Soul food. Certainly made the 8hr drive back to Sydney a lot easier. Gold Jerry.
So it's now 2.43 .And that's about all from me. The shows have died down a little whilst I try to concentrate on getting this record finished off. I can tell you that it's going to be 14 tracks. If you're interested that is. It's slowly starting to sound like something you would listen to. Which is I sort of the point I suppose. It's just that for a while there, I wondered if it ever would....
Goodnight. Adieu. See you soon.
Renny
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 26
Hello Blogees... I am assuming that's what you call the reader of a blog. Not a blogger, but a blogee. But I assume a lot of things. And you know what they say about assumptions, so I wouldn't be using that in your next thesis.
Friday night's show at Bar Me was a great night - probably the most I have enjoyed playing in a few months to be honest. Big thanks to Edoardo and Megan as well. It was my first show there in about a year, and it's great to see the venue back in familiar hands again. I really think it's an important room for the local songwriter scene. It's certainly got the opportunity to push different styles of music, and encourage a different type of audience to go and see live shows. One of the few places in the city that is promoting a music in a cultural sense, rather than a fashion sense. Works for me, because I always seem to be years behind the fashion trends anyway. Did I mention I found a great truckers hat the other day?
This is the part where I'd like to tell you how well the recording is going, and when it is due to be released. But unfortunately it is proving to be a difficult beast to conquer. I am learning to remove the obstructions, but it is taking time. When I decided to self-produce my album, I had no real comprehension of the challenges it would create. The concept of self-producing is beautiful to me, because it is the opportunity to create something that is truly your own. But acquiring the necessary amount of "Creative bravery" is proving difficult. I am not sure if this blog is the correct forum to be spitting out this type of stuff, but I always try to be positive so I figure it can't hurt once in a while to give you all a snapshot into the other side of the artistic process. The darker side. The "I can't do this" side. I wish it was easier to cast aside the doubt, but then I suppose that's what makes the light at the end of the tunnel so much more inspiring when you get there.
On a more positive note, i did manage to write a song the other day. It's the first one I have written on the piano for about 2 years. Hard to believe it's been that long when so much of my early music was driven by the keyboard stuff. Anyway I kind of like it. Feels good to be back on the horse.
I hope you find somebody's hand
To guide you to that sacred promised land.
Where the hour glass is chocked full up of sand.
And it won't run out.
Who's coming to Tamworth? Go on. You'll love it.
See you soon,
Renny
Friday night's show at Bar Me was a great night - probably the most I have enjoyed playing in a few months to be honest. Big thanks to Edoardo and Megan as well. It was my first show there in about a year, and it's great to see the venue back in familiar hands again. I really think it's an important room for the local songwriter scene. It's certainly got the opportunity to push different styles of music, and encourage a different type of audience to go and see live shows. One of the few places in the city that is promoting a music in a cultural sense, rather than a fashion sense. Works for me, because I always seem to be years behind the fashion trends anyway. Did I mention I found a great truckers hat the other day?
This is the part where I'd like to tell you how well the recording is going, and when it is due to be released. But unfortunately it is proving to be a difficult beast to conquer. I am learning to remove the obstructions, but it is taking time. When I decided to self-produce my album, I had no real comprehension of the challenges it would create. The concept of self-producing is beautiful to me, because it is the opportunity to create something that is truly your own. But acquiring the necessary amount of "Creative bravery" is proving difficult. I am not sure if this blog is the correct forum to be spitting out this type of stuff, but I always try to be positive so I figure it can't hurt once in a while to give you all a snapshot into the other side of the artistic process. The darker side. The "I can't do this" side. I wish it was easier to cast aside the doubt, but then I suppose that's what makes the light at the end of the tunnel so much more inspiring when you get there.
On a more positive note, i did manage to write a song the other day. It's the first one I have written on the piano for about 2 years. Hard to believe it's been that long when so much of my early music was driven by the keyboard stuff. Anyway I kind of like it. Feels good to be back on the horse.
I hope you find somebody's hand
To guide you to that sacred promised land.
Where the hour glass is chocked full up of sand.
And it won't run out.
Who's coming to Tamworth? Go on. You'll love it.
See you soon,
Renny
Friday, January 02, 2009
The Weekly... Volume 25
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
So it's 2009 - Two thousand and Divine I have heard some people say. We'll wait and see about that.
Just got back from a few days at the Peats Ridge Festival. It was great to see so many local artists doing so well. As a festival, it's as good as any going round. Maybe I'm showing my age, but it's nice to be able to walk around and enjoy yourself rather than having to edge your way through 5000 wasted teenagers so you might, if your lucky, be able to catch a glimpse of a band you wanted to see. There is always a front row seat at Peats Ridge - that's the best part. And the music was world class. A big thank you to Kent Eastwood who joined me on stage for my set on New Years Eve - mate it is always a pleasure. Not to forget the Mischief of course on the Kazoos, and Richie Cuthbert deserves a mention for adding a touch of Choas to proceedings. What a good laugh.
Before Peats Ridge, we had time for a mad dash to Tathra on the South Coast of NSW. What a beautiful spot. Untouched when compared to travelling a similar distance north. If only I was able to stay down there a bit longer. The show was great fun, and once again thanks to Mort and Sue for your support, and helping us get down there to play from time to time.
So this one is a short one - I am about to pack my bags and head off to the studio. Plenty to be done.
Wishing you all every success in 2009.
Much love from me
So it's 2009 - Two thousand and Divine I have heard some people say. We'll wait and see about that.
Just got back from a few days at the Peats Ridge Festival. It was great to see so many local artists doing so well. As a festival, it's as good as any going round. Maybe I'm showing my age, but it's nice to be able to walk around and enjoy yourself rather than having to edge your way through 5000 wasted teenagers so you might, if your lucky, be able to catch a glimpse of a band you wanted to see. There is always a front row seat at Peats Ridge - that's the best part. And the music was world class. A big thank you to Kent Eastwood who joined me on stage for my set on New Years Eve - mate it is always a pleasure. Not to forget the Mischief of course on the Kazoos, and Richie Cuthbert deserves a mention for adding a touch of Choas to proceedings. What a good laugh.
Before Peats Ridge, we had time for a mad dash to Tathra on the South Coast of NSW. What a beautiful spot. Untouched when compared to travelling a similar distance north. If only I was able to stay down there a bit longer. The show was great fun, and once again thanks to Mort and Sue for your support, and helping us get down there to play from time to time.
So this one is a short one - I am about to pack my bags and head off to the studio. Plenty to be done.
Wishing you all every success in 2009.
Much love from me
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The Weekly... Volume 24
Hello subscribers. All three of you. How are you? Good to hear! (I am guessing there, but hey it’s Christmas so I figure you’re probably doing pretty well. Being silly season and all…). A few days late courtesy of the show on Sunday night, but you know what they say about late vs never. And I am a big believer in that theory. This may have something to do with the fact that I am often slightly behind schedule... Not always in a "fashionable" way either. But I am working on it...
Coming at you from the Internet Cafe in Manly. I am yet to get the internet connected in my new place here. I am wondering if I really need it? Maybe I can just get by on wireless hot spots and internet cafes. That would be a lot cheaper... And you get to meet more backpackers. AND they give you free frisbees. Seriously - I got one the other day.
First things first – a huge thanks to everyone who came along on Sunday night to the Christmas spectacular spectacular. We had a great time, and there were moments in the set where I thought the band sounded as good as we have together all year. So hats off to everyone who was involved – a nice one for the last band show of 2008. Special thanks also to Liz on the Viola, who my brother recruited the night before whilst slightly intoxicated – turns out she could really play!
Not to be forgotten – Brett, Felix and the Stringettes – wonderful to do another show with you.
And Holly Austin you are a genius.
Happy to report also that we had a nice little collection of goodies to give to the Smith Family yesterday. I managed to find the “Base Camp” in Homebush, which is not the nicest drive from Manly it has to be said, but compared to what some people are up against at Christmas, I suppose a few cars on Military Road is hardly something to complain about. Thanks to all of you who put presents under our little tree at the Excelsior - it was a wonderful display of generosity. In case you were wondering, by Grandparents raised over $500 by selling raffle tickets for one of my grandfather’s paintings. That money also goes to the Smith Family, so it’s nice to know we’ve all played a small part in helping a few less fortunate folks. I spent some time with the Volunteers yesterday out at Homebush and seeing the amount of presents that had been donated around NSW was quite amazing. It seems the spirit of giving is well and truly in the air.
A bit of a break for me on the run-in to Christmas, but then I am down the South Coast for a couple of shows before heading up to the Peats Ridge Festival. Such a great lineup – can’t wait to settle in there for a few days and take it all in.
It's an interesting little period I am going through at the moment – the word “transition” springs to mind, but I won’t bore you with clichés. It hasn't been easy to settle back in here after my travelling this year, but I was reminded on Sunday night about the healing powers of music. I hit the stage feeling pretty stressed and left it feeling more or less at ease. A bit more than just the post-gig glow, more a feeling of contentment that at the end of the day, no matter what is going on in my life, I'll always have my songs. And I am not one to get all spiritual and touchy-feely on you, but I do believe that the creative process can be a very powerful thing as long as it's not neglected. Mental note taken...
Anyway after a very busy year of tours, tours and more tours, it might be time to take a little breather so I can actually get this new album finished. Rest assured however, there’ll still be enough going on to operate this rambling blog of mine for a while yet.
Merry Christmas to you all. Make sure you eat a lot. That is the whole point. You can worry about the spare tyre next year… On your way to the Peats Ridge Festival. Then you can add to it with some home made Gozleme. That's what I'll be doing.
Cheers for now.
Renny
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Ultimate Christmas Spectacular Spectacular. Sun 21 Dec
WAY more spectacular than your average spectacular.... I promise!
THE RENNY FIELD BAND - FINAL SHOW OF 2008
At the moment, we have 8 people playing with the band on Sunday. This number could grow depending on who I manage to round up in the next few days. We also have a suggestion for the band name - "Renny Field and the Beautiful Shambles". Because I like to have lots of different people playing with us. Makes things interesting. What do you think?
Like the Baby Shambles, but without the crack habit.
SUN 21 ..HE EXCELSIOR HOTEL
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills
Doors open 5pm. Music from 6pm sharp.
With Brett Winterford (Peregrine).
and a Special Mystery Guest!!
No I'm not telling you who he is... Or she... You'll have to come and see for yourselves.
Tix $10 at the Door. Food available at the venue. And drinks of course. Pubs usually sell drinks.
CHRISTMAS PRESENT APPEAL:
We will be setting up a Christmas Tree at the venue, and we are asking people to bring a Christmas present for a small child to put beneath the tree. The presents will then be given to the Smith Family for their annual Christmas present appeal. It's not much, but it might help Santa get to a few more homes in time for the big day. The Smith Family have asked that each present be labeled with Male/Female and a rough age group. This will assist with the distribution. Doesn't have to be a big present, but anything you could manage would be great. Thanks!
(And thanks to my brother for that great idea).
ARTWORK RAFFLE:
Just when you thought it couldn't get any more spectacular, my Grandfather has decided to run a raffle for one of his famous paintings (well they should be famous). How good is that? I reckon you'll love it. And all the proceeds from the raffle will be going straight to the Smith Family. That was mighty nice of him I thought, so if you don't particularly like my music you could at least stop by to have a chat with Gramps and buy a ticket in the raffle. You might even get a new painting on the wall for Christmas!
I am excited!!
But I will stop using exclamation marks now...
Hope to see you there.
Cheers,
Renny
THE RENNY FIELD BAND - FINAL SHOW OF 2008
At the moment, we have 8 people playing with the band on Sunday. This number could grow depending on who I manage to round up in the next few days. We also have a suggestion for the band name - "Renny Field and the Beautiful Shambles". Because I like to have lots of different people playing with us. Makes things interesting. What do you think?
Like the Baby Shambles, but without the crack habit.
SUN 21 ..HE EXCELSIOR HOTEL
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills
Doors open 5pm. Music from 6pm sharp.
With Brett Winterford (Peregrine).
and a Special Mystery Guest!!
No I'm not telling you who he is... Or she... You'll have to come and see for yourselves.
Tix $10 at the Door. Food available at the venue. And drinks of course. Pubs usually sell drinks.
CHRISTMAS PRESENT APPEAL:
We will be setting up a Christmas Tree at the venue, and we are asking people to bring a Christmas present for a small child to put beneath the tree. The presents will then be given to the Smith Family for their annual Christmas present appeal. It's not much, but it might help Santa get to a few more homes in time for the big day. The Smith Family have asked that each present be labeled with Male/Female and a rough age group. This will assist with the distribution. Doesn't have to be a big present, but anything you could manage would be great. Thanks!
(And thanks to my brother for that great idea).
ARTWORK RAFFLE:
Just when you thought it couldn't get any more spectacular, my Grandfather has decided to run a raffle for one of his famous paintings (well they should be famous). How good is that? I reckon you'll love it. And all the proceeds from the raffle will be going straight to the Smith Family. That was mighty nice of him I thought, so if you don't particularly like my music you could at least stop by to have a chat with Gramps and buy a ticket in the raffle. You might even get a new painting on the wall for Christmas!
I am excited!!
But I will stop using exclamation marks now...
Hope to see you there.
Cheers,
Renny
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Weekly... Volume 23
OK so I counted back - we have returned to the Numerical system. This means that I am going to write one of these things once a week again - that was sort of the point when I started it up (hence the title...).
Anyway the week that was - another trip out to Bathurst for a show at the Kings Hotel. I really must thank Angus and the team out there for making us feel so welcome each time we go out. Normally I do a little Drums / Acoustic show with my brother, but this time around it was Han Solo. For some reason, the last three trips to Bathurst I have had to drive through the Central West version of Cyclone Tracy just to get there. Let me tell you - by yourself in a 1986 Toyota Corona, this is NOT cool. Even if you have 2 new tyres. Good thing it doesn't leak like my Old Dual sun-roof Tarago touring van. Is someone trying to test me? Trying to see if I REALLY want to be a musician? Do I REALLY want to put up with a 3hr drive to Bathurst through a Monsoon on a Friday night? (you see it changed from a Cyclone - I am working on my storytelling...). Well the answer to all those questions is YES - and whoever is testing me can keep doing it, because I ain't giving up that easily.
Closer to home, I had a couple of shows in Manly this week. My first 2 shows in Manly as a Manly resident! This is exciting. If I could get 5 gigs a week in Manly, then I'd never have to go anywhere. (But I'd still go to Bathurst of course... ).
I am keeping this Blog brief, because it's my "Get started again" blog, so it'll take a few weeks to get back my full blog fitness. I'll leave you with this one little story / rant.
Earlier this week, I was moving some more of my things to my new place. It was Monday, it was getting late, and I still hadn't had any dinner. So against my better judgment I stopped at the old faithful late night Indian diner on Oxford Street. God knows if the food is actually "Food" as we know it, but a bit of Rice and Naan bread is at least enough to keep the hunger pains at bay. I noticed a guy about 10m up the street doing some busking - in fact he was playing some old Elton john tunes on the piano, which I thought was pretty cool. Doing a great job of it to.
Well that's what I thought anyway - it turns out it wasn't cool at all. I had only just sat down outside to eat my dinner when the local rangers turned up to tell the guy to pack up and move on.
Why? Who was he bothering?
I couldn't quite believe it. Sure it was a Monday, but this guy was playing pleasant piano music. Nothing offensive, and certainly not as loud as the Buses that kept gong past every 2 or 3 minutes. Yes for some reason, the Rangers had to come and shut him up. Apparently someone had made a complaint... More likely it was a Monday, they were bored, so they decided to pick on someone. Just because they could. And they seem to like easy targets.
Oxford street is meant to be one of the all night "Strips" in Sydney. Even on a Monday, there are bars open most of the night. What on earth is wrong with a guy playing Piano on the footpath? The problem here is that it wouldn't have mattered where this bloke set up, he would have been cut off anywhere in the city... It's seems such a trivial thing to get upset about, but I was pissed off. If art and music is not allowed to exist at that most basic grass roots level, then what hope is there of it ever gaining a reasonable footing?
On my way to Bathurst I heard a guy call in on talkback radio to suggest that people go and check out some live music on a Friday night. The host, a fairly prominent media personality, asked the caller "Is there still live music in Sydney?".
It might have been said in jest, but it's hardly a laughing matter...
Sorry to drag that one down like that, but occasionally I think a mini-rant is in order.
Why not check out a gig somewhere this week - you might just enjoy it. I can think of at least one option...
SUN 21 DECEMBER.
THE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR.
More Spectacular than your avergage Spectacular.
RENNY FIELD BAND
Supported by Brett Winterford.
Plus a Mystery Guest!
Bring a kids present for the Smith Family!
Plus raffles and more!
The Excelsior Surry Hills.
64 Foveax Street.
Doors open 5pm. Tix $10.
But hey - there are plenty of venues, and plenty of bands.
Get amongst it folks. It's Christmas.
And if you see a guy playing Elton John on Piano, give him a few bucks!
See you soon
Anyway the week that was - another trip out to Bathurst for a show at the Kings Hotel. I really must thank Angus and the team out there for making us feel so welcome each time we go out. Normally I do a little Drums / Acoustic show with my brother, but this time around it was Han Solo. For some reason, the last three trips to Bathurst I have had to drive through the Central West version of Cyclone Tracy just to get there. Let me tell you - by yourself in a 1986 Toyota Corona, this is NOT cool. Even if you have 2 new tyres. Good thing it doesn't leak like my Old Dual sun-roof Tarago touring van. Is someone trying to test me? Trying to see if I REALLY want to be a musician? Do I REALLY want to put up with a 3hr drive to Bathurst through a Monsoon on a Friday night? (you see it changed from a Cyclone - I am working on my storytelling...). Well the answer to all those questions is YES - and whoever is testing me can keep doing it, because I ain't giving up that easily.
Closer to home, I had a couple of shows in Manly this week. My first 2 shows in Manly as a Manly resident! This is exciting. If I could get 5 gigs a week in Manly, then I'd never have to go anywhere. (But I'd still go to Bathurst of course... ).
I am keeping this Blog brief, because it's my "Get started again" blog, so it'll take a few weeks to get back my full blog fitness. I'll leave you with this one little story / rant.
Earlier this week, I was moving some more of my things to my new place. It was Monday, it was getting late, and I still hadn't had any dinner. So against my better judgment I stopped at the old faithful late night Indian diner on Oxford Street. God knows if the food is actually "Food" as we know it, but a bit of Rice and Naan bread is at least enough to keep the hunger pains at bay. I noticed a guy about 10m up the street doing some busking - in fact he was playing some old Elton john tunes on the piano, which I thought was pretty cool. Doing a great job of it to.
Well that's what I thought anyway - it turns out it wasn't cool at all. I had only just sat down outside to eat my dinner when the local rangers turned up to tell the guy to pack up and move on.
Why? Who was he bothering?
I couldn't quite believe it. Sure it was a Monday, but this guy was playing pleasant piano music. Nothing offensive, and certainly not as loud as the Buses that kept gong past every 2 or 3 minutes. Yes for some reason, the Rangers had to come and shut him up. Apparently someone had made a complaint... More likely it was a Monday, they were bored, so they decided to pick on someone. Just because they could. And they seem to like easy targets.
Oxford street is meant to be one of the all night "Strips" in Sydney. Even on a Monday, there are bars open most of the night. What on earth is wrong with a guy playing Piano on the footpath? The problem here is that it wouldn't have mattered where this bloke set up, he would have been cut off anywhere in the city... It's seems such a trivial thing to get upset about, but I was pissed off. If art and music is not allowed to exist at that most basic grass roots level, then what hope is there of it ever gaining a reasonable footing?
On my way to Bathurst I heard a guy call in on talkback radio to suggest that people go and check out some live music on a Friday night. The host, a fairly prominent media personality, asked the caller "Is there still live music in Sydney?".
It might have been said in jest, but it's hardly a laughing matter...
Sorry to drag that one down like that, but occasionally I think a mini-rant is in order.
Why not check out a gig somewhere this week - you might just enjoy it. I can think of at least one option...
SUN 21 DECEMBER.
THE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR.
More Spectacular than your avergage Spectacular.
RENNY FIELD BAND
Supported by Brett Winterford.
Plus a Mystery Guest!
Bring a kids present for the Smith Family!
Plus raffles and more!
The Excelsior Surry Hills.
64 Foveax Street.
Doors open 5pm. Tix $10.
But hey - there are plenty of venues, and plenty of bands.
Get amongst it folks. It's Christmas.
And if you see a guy playing Elton John on Piano, give him a few bucks!
See you soon
Monday, December 08, 2008
The Weekly... Volume..... Um.... December
Well this is the monthly group email - I will work out exactly which weekly I am up to next time round. For now, I'll leave you with the following show updates:
WED 10 & THURS 11 ..THE MANLY DOUBLE!
No I don't mean two blokes - I mean the suburb of Manly. And a manly suburb it is! (Sort of, depending on how you look at it).
WED 10/12 - The Old Manly Boatshed
Solo show - On stage 9pm.
www.songwriterslive.com.au
Free Entry
THURS 11/12 - In Situ, Manly
18 Sydney Road (Just off the Corso).
Solo show 7.30 - 10.30pm.
Three hours of power - can you handle it?!
Free Entry. Great tapas menu.
FRI 12 DEC - BATHURST - THE KINGS HOTEL
Solo Show from 10pm.
Another 3 hours of power!
60 George Street, Bathurst.
You might want to do a road trip and check out Mt Panorama. It's cool.
The last two trips to Bathurst, there has been a brawl in the pub on both occasions. To this point I have resisted the urge to enclose the stage area in chicken wire a la the Good Old Boys / Blues Brothers, but I might get a few quotes from the local Bunnings this time round just in case...
If anyone makes it to both In Situ AND Bathurst (that would be 6 Hours of Power), I will pay for your appointment with a therapist the next week.
SUN 21 DECEMBER - THE INAUGURAL RENNY FIELD BAND CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR!
Yes I did use the word Spectacular twice. And no it still doesn't even come close to describing how Spectacular this will be. I will be trying to feature a whole host of people who have played with the band over the past year. That means a lot of people on a fairly small stage, but it'll be fun.
Celebrating the year that was, and ushering in the better year that will be. (Or just chilling out after a big Saturday night - it's up to you).
Early show, so you'll all be able to get your beauty sleep.
THE EXCELSIOR HOTEL
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills.
Doors Open 5pm. Music from 6pm.
With Special Guest Brett Winterford (Peregrine).
And another... but you'll have to wait and see..
Tickets $10 at the Door.
Food available at the pub.
31 DECEMBER - NEW YEARS EVE
I'll be performing at the Peats Ridge Festival.
On stage 10pm at the Chai Tea Temple.
(Yes there is a Chai Tea Temple, and yes I am playing at it).
Mainly solo, but with a few to help out. Should be fun.
A great lineup of local and international artists - just over an hour from Sydney.
You could do worse!
www.peatsridgefestival.com.au
2009.....
BACK TO BAR ME
FRI 9 JAN - SOLO HEADLINE SHOW
Looking forward to returning to one of my favourite venues in Sydney.
Nice grand piano, and a great little room.
Book for Dinner and a Show - www.barme.com.au
TAMWORTH TOUR:
WED 21 JAN, THURS 22 JAN, FRI 23 JAN
THE LONGYARD, TAMWORTH
Round Robin Show with Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys.
Singing songs, sharing stories.
10am - 1pm Each Day.
Next to the Golden Guitar.
FREE ENTRY
SUN 25 JAN - JUST CONFIRMED..
GLEN INNES!
With Kent Eastwood, Sam Buckingham, Sarah Humphreys.
More info to come.
FOR REGULAR UPDATES (and there will be a few), log on to www.myspace.com/rennyfield
---------------------------------------------------
THANKS THANKS THANKS!
To everyone who has been to see a show in 2008, offered their encouragement, bought a CD, helped me out in a distant land, told a friend, signed the mailing list, or did something that made my little journey here more enjoyable. That goes out to all of you who ignored me whilst I was busking at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (because now there is a great little video on youtube which I find very amusing), and in particular it goes out to the Jehovas Witness dude who tried to give me a flyer whilst I was in the middle of a song at a show in Ireland. My friend, you may think I had the sh..... s at the time, but I will be using that story for the rest of my life. So really, I can't thank you enough.
It has been a pretty crazy sort to year (in a good way), and I am looking forward to more of the same in 2009.
Best wishes to everyone for Christmas and the New Year, and I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Much love,
Renny
-----------------------------------------------------
PS.
The astute observers will remember that I was recording an album. That is still happening - in between all of the above. A bit crazy, but we're getting there.
But the plan is for a release early next year, so hang in there... Thanks for bearing with me.
In the mean time, grab yourself a great deal on some Christmas Presents:
www.rennyfield.com
(Hey you can't blame a guy for trying).
WED 10 & THURS 11 ..THE MANLY DOUBLE!
No I don't mean two blokes - I mean the suburb of Manly. And a manly suburb it is! (Sort of, depending on how you look at it).
WED 10/12 - The Old Manly Boatshed
Solo show - On stage 9pm.
www.songwriterslive.com.au
Free Entry
THURS 11/12 - In Situ, Manly
18 Sydney Road (Just off the Corso).
Solo show 7.30 - 10.30pm.
Three hours of power - can you handle it?!
Free Entry. Great tapas menu.
FRI 12 DEC - BATHURST - THE KINGS HOTEL
Solo Show from 10pm.
Another 3 hours of power!
60 George Street, Bathurst.
You might want to do a road trip and check out Mt Panorama. It's cool.
The last two trips to Bathurst, there has been a brawl in the pub on both occasions. To this point I have resisted the urge to enclose the stage area in chicken wire a la the Good Old Boys / Blues Brothers, but I might get a few quotes from the local Bunnings this time round just in case...
If anyone makes it to both In Situ AND Bathurst (that would be 6 Hours of Power), I will pay for your appointment with a therapist the next week.
SUN 21 DECEMBER - THE INAUGURAL RENNY FIELD BAND CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR!
Yes I did use the word Spectacular twice. And no it still doesn't even come close to describing how Spectacular this will be. I will be trying to feature a whole host of people who have played with the band over the past year. That means a lot of people on a fairly small stage, but it'll be fun.
Celebrating the year that was, and ushering in the better year that will be. (Or just chilling out after a big Saturday night - it's up to you).
Early show, so you'll all be able to get your beauty sleep.
THE EXCELSIOR HOTEL
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills.
Doors Open 5pm. Music from 6pm.
With Special Guest Brett Winterford (Peregrine).
And another... but you'll have to wait and see..
Tickets $10 at the Door.
Food available at the pub.
31 DECEMBER - NEW YEARS EVE
I'll be performing at the Peats Ridge Festival.
On stage 10pm at the Chai Tea Temple.
(Yes there is a Chai Tea Temple, and yes I am playing at it).
Mainly solo, but with a few to help out. Should be fun.
A great lineup of local and international artists - just over an hour from Sydney.
You could do worse!
www.peatsridgefestival.com.au
2009.....
BACK TO BAR ME
FRI 9 JAN - SOLO HEADLINE SHOW
Looking forward to returning to one of my favourite venues in Sydney.
Nice grand piano, and a great little room.
Book for Dinner and a Show - www.barme.com.au
TAMWORTH TOUR:
WED 21 JAN, THURS 22 JAN, FRI 23 JAN
THE LONGYARD, TAMWORTH
Round Robin Show with Sam Buckingham and Sarah Humphreys.
Singing songs, sharing stories.
10am - 1pm Each Day.
Next to the Golden Guitar.
FREE ENTRY
SUN 25 JAN - JUST CONFIRMED..
GLEN INNES!
With Kent Eastwood, Sam Buckingham, Sarah Humphreys.
More info to come.
FOR REGULAR UPDATES (and there will be a few), log on to www.myspace.com/rennyfield
---------------------------------------------------
THANKS THANKS THANKS!
To everyone who has been to see a show in 2008, offered their encouragement, bought a CD, helped me out in a distant land, told a friend, signed the mailing list, or did something that made my little journey here more enjoyable. That goes out to all of you who ignored me whilst I was busking at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (because now there is a great little video on youtube which I find very amusing), and in particular it goes out to the Jehovas Witness dude who tried to give me a flyer whilst I was in the middle of a song at a show in Ireland. My friend, you may think I had the sh..... s at the time, but I will be using that story for the rest of my life. So really, I can't thank you enough.
It has been a pretty crazy sort to year (in a good way), and I am looking forward to more of the same in 2009.
Best wishes to everyone for Christmas and the New Year, and I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Much love,
Renny
-----------------------------------------------------
PS.
The astute observers will remember that I was recording an album. That is still happening - in between all of the above. A bit crazy, but we're getting there.
But the plan is for a release early next year, so hang in there... Thanks for bearing with me.
In the mean time, grab yourself a great deal on some Christmas Presents:
www.rennyfield.com
(Hey you can't blame a guy for trying).
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