Check out the video we made during the North Island leg of our NZ Tour 2009.
Big thanks to John Brown's Body, and to everyone that came to the shows!
We hope you're enjoying the live album!
Monday 23 November 2009
Sunday 22 November 2009
From Burlington, U.S.A to Opononi NZ – The End of the Road for 09
Wow, what a choice time we had finishing off our NZ tour with John Brown’s Body.
The last leg of the tour saw us play Auckland’s Powerstation. I still think this is one of the best venues in the country because it’s very pro, you can see and hear from anywhere, and the stage is wide and high. It sold out on the night which made for even more good energy in the room.
Then we headed to the wonderful Hokianga, to Opononi, where we played under the stars on a beautiful Saturday evening. The crowd heaved and swayed and I had a few moments while listening to John Brown’s Body for the last time of the tour, they really crushed every gig. Lucky this time I avoided getting stoned to death with the locals
After the show Nigel instigated a jam in one of the units we were staying. This meant unpacking some of the gear and lighting again (thanks Tony and Don).
Before you knew it, 2am, we had a hot jam going which was now well lit by Don our Lighting artist. We were just rotating on the instruments with the guys from JBB for hours… drinking and playing and enjoying the freshness of the music that seemed to be gushing out of us…. I guess we had just done 40 shows with mostly the same music so now it was time to let out all the other ideas that were hiding in our skulls. There couldn’t have been a better way to end our massive mission from Burlington Vermont U.S.A to Opononi in the Hokianga.
A big shout out to John Brown’s Body, who took a risk with The Black Seeds, they took us literally to the States for a tour and then ventured down to N.Z to share their conscious roots with us all. Overall it was pretty mega, so thanks to all the new and old fans that supported us through it.
Barnaby
The last leg of the tour saw us play Auckland’s Powerstation. I still think this is one of the best venues in the country because it’s very pro, you can see and hear from anywhere, and the stage is wide and high. It sold out on the night which made for even more good energy in the room.
Then we headed to the wonderful Hokianga, to Opononi, where we played under the stars on a beautiful Saturday evening. The crowd heaved and swayed and I had a few moments while listening to John Brown’s Body for the last time of the tour, they really crushed every gig. Lucky this time I avoided getting stoned to death with the locals
After the show Nigel instigated a jam in one of the units we were staying. This meant unpacking some of the gear and lighting again (thanks Tony and Don).
Before you knew it, 2am, we had a hot jam going which was now well lit by Don our Lighting artist. We were just rotating on the instruments with the guys from JBB for hours… drinking and playing and enjoying the freshness of the music that seemed to be gushing out of us…. I guess we had just done 40 shows with mostly the same music so now it was time to let out all the other ideas that were hiding in our skulls. There couldn’t have been a better way to end our massive mission from Burlington Vermont U.S.A to Opononi in the Hokianga.
A big shout out to John Brown’s Body, who took a risk with The Black Seeds, they took us literally to the States for a tour and then ventured down to N.Z to share their conscious roots with us all. Overall it was pretty mega, so thanks to all the new and old fans that supported us through it.
Barnaby
Tuesday 17 November 2009
The Black Seeds/JBB at Altitude-Hamilton. 12/11/09
There was a time in my life (in the distant past) when I really wasn’t sure about Hamilton. I thought you wouldn’t get it. It might have something to do with having my eyebrows shaved off there by some rugby jocks at the ripe age of 14.
BUT, yet again Hamilton, you proved me wrong. In the words of Eliot from John Browns Body ‘Cool crowd, really nice people”. Well, he has only been here for a matter of hours but still, Hamilton you rocked last night, again.
We’re onto gig number 38 now of the world tour and I think the end approaching has a bittersweet taste to it, happy to get back to my family but sad to leave this one behind. Touring with JBB has been like meeting the brothers you didn’t know you had. Big Love and we will do it again.
When you tour in a band you are with each other 24/7 and have the ups and downs that go with that. We have been from New York to L.A, From Edinburgh to Berlin and Invercargill to Auckland. Haven’t missed a flight or show, left anyone behind (just socks strewn across two continents) and have played our music to thousands of people in 7 countries. Man I’ve got a great job. Can’t wait till they invent teleportation though, I’ll never like van-time.
Special thanks to our management and the people that make it happen behind the scenes and on the streets world-wide. Your Awesome!
Ray Ray
BUT, yet again Hamilton, you proved me wrong. In the words of Eliot from John Browns Body ‘Cool crowd, really nice people”. Well, he has only been here for a matter of hours but still, Hamilton you rocked last night, again.
We’re onto gig number 38 now of the world tour and I think the end approaching has a bittersweet taste to it, happy to get back to my family but sad to leave this one behind. Touring with JBB has been like meeting the brothers you didn’t know you had. Big Love and we will do it again.
When you tour in a band you are with each other 24/7 and have the ups and downs that go with that. We have been from New York to L.A, From Edinburgh to Berlin and Invercargill to Auckland. Haven’t missed a flight or show, left anyone behind (just socks strewn across two continents) and have played our music to thousands of people in 7 countries. Man I’ve got a great job. Can’t wait till they invent teleportation though, I’ll never like van-time.
Special thanks to our management and the people that make it happen behind the scenes and on the streets world-wide. Your Awesome!
Ray Ray
Tuesday 10 November 2009
On tour: Wellington & Napier (by Andy Christiansen)
Checkout this video footage from the Wgtn Town Hall on Friday night! Awesome crowd. Thanks Wellys.
Wellington - 6/11
What a good gig, as always the Town Hall never disappoints. The vibe was well high this night was extra special for me coz my parents attended their first ever Black Seeds show.
My mum truly represented the family with boogying right down the front whilst dad appreciated from the stands - Chur mum and dad for enjoying it!
The crowd was amazing and extremely vocal - what a gig Wellington!
Another factor that contributed to it having such a great vibe was the incredible lighting and visual show - it was hard to not turn around and vibe out at them - good work Gareth and Don, and of course Chris and Tony for always making us sound great!
Napier - 7/11
After the amazing night that Wellington put on for us, and a decent after party, we made the drive to Napier. The further north we went the nicer the weather got. We got there early evening and it was straight into a sound check. A few hours later, and a few technical difficulties later, we were off to our amazing dinner at Loan Star yeya, it was delicious! The gig was great - it was in a wool shed by the port with wool bails as the punter barrier and walls - was a great vibe and always good to play music with the JBB.
Andy Christiansen
Thursday 5 November 2009
South Island Tour Video
South Island Tour Video: checkout our latest tour antics from the road last week down South
Sunday 1 November 2009
Dunedin - by The Black Seeds' - Nigel Patterson
The day began in Queenstown like most on tour – most of us struggling with the fact that morning had arrived too soon .We all piled into the van and headed into town for coffee.The drive to Dunedin was beautifully scenic as always and by far the highlight was our stop in the small town of Lawerence. As we were driving through Lawrence we noticed a blackboard sign which said “BLACK SEEDS STOP FOR YOUR FREE DONUT” unsure if we were seeing things we decided to take a look and sure enough the local bakery had put the sign out and we were all treated to complimentary pies, donuts and general good vibes!! Thanks guys!! We arrived in Dunedin and quickly headed for the venue Sammies.Sammies has to be one of the coolest venues in the country! Beautiful old theatre with a great community feel. The Dunedin crowd rocked the party and as Sammies was transitioning to a bouncy castle land for kids we heading to Lone Star Dunedin where we indulged in some of the best southern hospitality we have ever experienced. Thanks Dunedin – always a good time – looking forward to the next time!!!
Cheers
Nigel Patterson
Cheers
Nigel Patterson
Saturday 31 October 2009
Touring NZ - by Mike Keenan (Guitarist of John Brown’s Body)
10/27/09 Oamaru, NZ
“Sad to say I must be on my way, so buy me beer and whiskey 'cause I’m going far away…” An immortal and appropriate Shane McGowan lyric that applies today. I left Saturday night at about 7:30 to catch a train to Boston, a car to NY, a flight to LA, a flight to Auckland, a flight to Christchurch, and finally a 4 hour drive to Oamaru. Almost exactly 48 hours after leaving home we got a bit of rest and our first taste of NZ. It’s a beautiful country. As is customary after travel most of us went out for a pint, this night at a place called The Last Post. We found out there is an endangered Blue Penguin colony here. We split off into groups and wandered around town trying to find the penguins without paying the $20 entrance fee. Tommy, Drew and I walked through the historic Victorian part of town and spoke to some locals that said if you wait until dark the penguins are all over the streets.
10/28/09 Invercargill, NZ
We met the Black Seeds in this working class town that we have heard playfully referred to as the armpit of New Zealand. It seemed cool to us. It was great to see and hear the Black Seeds again. The crowd was rowdy from the first note on. It was great to start the tour with a warm reception.
10/29/09 Queenstown, NZ
We woke up early today because Barnaby had arranged for a group of us to go Bungy jumping. Elliot, Matt, Daniel, Barnaby and myself were the lucky ones. I am happy to say the barter system is alive and well in New Zealand. We successfully traded guest list spots for bungy jumps at AJ Hackett Bungy. I’ll be honest, my legs went a little weak as I prepared to jump but I somehow managed to step off a 300’ bridge. We hear this is the small jump.
Later in Queenstown the Black Seeds' manager Chris surprised us with a traditional Maori greeting ceremony. Pretty amazing. Queenstown is posh and mountainous and reminded us of Park City , UT. Minus Robert Redford of course.
This has been a sick day. The gig should be icing on the cake.
Credits:
Blog by Mike Keenan (Guitarist of John Brown’s Body). Bungy photo of Matthew Goodwin (keyboardist of John Brown’s Body). Maori greeting ceremony photo by Chris Gee.
“Sad to say I must be on my way, so buy me beer and whiskey 'cause I’m going far away…” An immortal and appropriate Shane McGowan lyric that applies today. I left Saturday night at about 7:30 to catch a train to Boston, a car to NY, a flight to LA, a flight to Auckland, a flight to Christchurch, and finally a 4 hour drive to Oamaru. Almost exactly 48 hours after leaving home we got a bit of rest and our first taste of NZ. It’s a beautiful country. As is customary after travel most of us went out for a pint, this night at a place called The Last Post. We found out there is an endangered Blue Penguin colony here. We split off into groups and wandered around town trying to find the penguins without paying the $20 entrance fee. Tommy, Drew and I walked through the historic Victorian part of town and spoke to some locals that said if you wait until dark the penguins are all over the streets.
10/28/09 Invercargill, NZ
We met the Black Seeds in this working class town that we have heard playfully referred to as the armpit of New Zealand. It seemed cool to us. It was great to see and hear the Black Seeds again. The crowd was rowdy from the first note on. It was great to start the tour with a warm reception.
10/29/09 Queenstown, NZ
We woke up early today because Barnaby had arranged for a group of us to go Bungy jumping. Elliot, Matt, Daniel, Barnaby and myself were the lucky ones. I am happy to say the barter system is alive and well in New Zealand. We successfully traded guest list spots for bungy jumps at AJ Hackett Bungy. I’ll be honest, my legs went a little weak as I prepared to jump but I somehow managed to step off a 300’ bridge. We hear this is the small jump.
Later in Queenstown the Black Seeds' manager Chris surprised us with a traditional Maori greeting ceremony. Pretty amazing. Queenstown is posh and mountainous and reminded us of Park City , UT. Minus Robert Redford of course.
This has been a sick day. The gig should be icing on the cake.
Credits:
Blog by Mike Keenan (Guitarist of John Brown’s Body). Bungy photo of Matthew Goodwin (keyboardist of John Brown’s Body). Maori greeting ceremony photo by Chris Gee.
Thursday 29 October 2009
NZ Tour - Invercargill
Invercargill.
Home of the Ranfurly Shield. Tens of thousands on the streets, they said. When we arrived, there was only two people on the street, and they were having a brawl.
Many more showed up to our gig, later that night. No brawls that I know of. Marcus Luch was there. I dedicated a song to him, "Sometimes Enough". I hope he heard it.It was wonderfully strange to see the boys from JBB removed from their American context and placed deep into Southland. The audience loved them.
The next day as we drove to Queenstown on State Highway 6 I stopped in front of an incredible mountain and was pleased that they would be witnessing such kick arse wilderness so early on in the journey.
Mike Fab.
Home of the Ranfurly Shield. Tens of thousands on the streets, they said. When we arrived, there was only two people on the street, and they were having a brawl.
Many more showed up to our gig, later that night. No brawls that I know of. Marcus Luch was there. I dedicated a song to him, "Sometimes Enough". I hope he heard it.It was wonderfully strange to see the boys from JBB removed from their American context and placed deep into Southland. The audience loved them.
The next day as we drove to Queenstown on State Highway 6 I stopped in front of an incredible mountain and was pleased that they would be witnessing such kick arse wilderness so early on in the journey.
Mike Fab.
Thursday 15 October 2009
Tuesday 13 October 2009
LIVE ALBUM ARTWORK – SNEAK PREVIEW
Hey guys
The Black Seeds Live. Vol 1 will be released in just a few weeks time and here’s a sneak preview of some of the amazing artwork!
The montage style artwork is made up from hundreds of our favourite images that we’ve collected over the past years from around the world. The limited edition deluxe CD/DVD package is released 28/10 (NZ/Aus) but will only be available from our website, and at our live NZ shows this Oct/Nov.
It includes 12 live songs recorded from shows both in NZ & around the world, each with personal comments from us, plus a bonus DVD with some new material and some of our finest audiovisual content to date. You can get it delivered to your door on release date (28/10) by pre-ordering @ http://www.theblackseedsmerch.com/, but get in quick.
It includes 12 live songs recorded from shows both in NZ & around the world, each with personal comments from us, plus a bonus DVD with some new material and some of our finest audiovisual content to date. You can get it delivered to your door on release date (28/10) by pre-ordering @ http://www.theblackseedsmerch.com/, but get in quick.
We’re in Berlin right now finishing off what has been an awesome five week tour of the U.S. and Europe… but we can’t wait to get back home. Our NZ tour starts in just a few weeks time with very special U.S. guests John Brown’s Body! (New Zealand, you’re in for a treat. These guys are great!!). See you in a few weeks time New Zealand! See full tour & ticketing details @ http://www.theblackseedsmerch.com/
More soon, The Seeds
Monday 12 October 2009
LIVE U.S TOUR VIDEOS
Hey guys,
Check out these new live videos from our show at The Gothic Theatre in Denver in September, and produced by Moboogie. The featured tracks are ‘Afrophone’ and ‘Come to Me’ off Solid Ground. Enjoy!
http://www.moboogie.com/TheBlackSeeds
We had an amazing time in the U.S.A. Thanks to everyone who came to the shows and we promise we’ll be back soon! (Canada included!)
Solid Ground is now available everywhere through Easy Star Records. http://www.easystar.com/
Thanks for your support, more soon!
The Black Seeds
Check out these new live videos from our show at The Gothic Theatre in Denver in September, and produced by Moboogie. The featured tracks are ‘Afrophone’ and ‘Come to Me’ off Solid Ground. Enjoy!
http://www.moboogie.com/TheBlackSeeds
We had an amazing time in the U.S.A. Thanks to everyone who came to the shows and we promise we’ll be back soon! (Canada included!)
Solid Ground is now available everywhere through Easy Star Records. http://www.easystar.com/
Thanks for your support, more soon!
The Black Seeds
Monday 5 October 2009
UK & Europe Tour #1
Getting older twice.
Sometimes having your birthday on tour can be a pain in the ass. This time though, I managed to have two birthdays. We were on a plane from L.A to London and crossed the dateline. Some of the guys had let it slip that it was my birthday to the airline staff and we were well taken care of by our steward Steve. He shouted the guys a round of champagne and best of all a fresh pair of socks and a toothbrush.
We were really tired after a massive post flight drive to the middle of England somewhere and I managed a quick curry and off to bed early. The guys let me have my own room and thankfully we had a primo hotel, actually the ideal birthday treat.
The Picture House- Edinburgh.
I was a bit concerned about this gig as we were playing a much bigger theatre than we have before in Edinburgh. The fact that it was a rainy Tuesday and we hadn’t sold many tickets didn’t help. Walking in I was a bit daunted by the size of the huge open space. The Picture House is like the Powerstation in Auckland but twice the size. A quick prayer to the gig gods and a smooth soundcheck eased my fears. After being treated to Scotland’s notoriously bad food at the local pub I headed back to the accom for a five minute nap.
When I got back to the venue it was as if it had shrunk to half the size. It was packed with people and the crowd was already moving nicely to the opening band. What a relief! We kicked off the set to a heaving room and the Edinburgh massive dug in. As it turns out, this was the biggest crowd we have seen in Edinburgh (check the video below) and they were up for good times.
After a couple of numbers they started firing cardboard cutouts at us (!?). A friend of ours Pat had said to Barney in Wellington that he would’ve loved to make the gig but would have to send a cardboard stand-in instead, so he did, crazy Scottish folk.
Jarney.
Friday 2 October 2009
Thursday 1 October 2009
Common Influences...
We had such a blast in the states, mainly thanks to John Brown's Body!
It was so great to arrive in a new country and instantly find yourself surrounded by friends. I really enjoyed being able to watch them after doing our sets, the are all monster players and performers, extremely strong and consistent. It was definitely inspiring.
I was talking to lead singer Elliot about the vocal line from a Lee Perry production that they drop in the last third of their set. It was a really influential tune for both of us, I remember it was one of the first reggae bass lines I ever really 'got'. I played it over and over again until it nearly drove my mother crazy.
It's a beautifully simple and understated song, perfect in so many ways. The dub (which I couldn't find) is sublime as well, and if I remember correctly there's a version with a female vocal on 'Super Ape', one of my all time favorite dub records.
Fab.
It was so great to arrive in a new country and instantly find yourself surrounded by friends. I really enjoyed being able to watch them after doing our sets, the are all monster players and performers, extremely strong and consistent. It was definitely inspiring.
I was talking to lead singer Elliot about the vocal line from a Lee Perry production that they drop in the last third of their set. It was a really influential tune for both of us, I remember it was one of the first reggae bass lines I ever really 'got'. I played it over and over again until it nearly drove my mother crazy.
It's a beautifully simple and understated song, perfect in so many ways. The dub (which I couldn't find) is sublime as well, and if I remember correctly there's a version with a female vocal on 'Super Ape', one of my all time favorite dub records.
Fab.
Record Shopping In America...
Well, here we are in the UK.
Edinburgh and Dublin totally went off, tonights gig in Bristol is almost sold out as is tomorrow night in London. Yeah!
Didn't really have a chance to go record shopping in America, but picked up a cheap copy of Chic's 1977 debut in Colorado, mainly for this tune.
Oooo, that bassline! Bernard Edwards is responsible for that bad boy, not to mention one of modern history's greatest bass lines on 'Good Times', which of course became Sugar Hill Gangs 'Rappers Delight', the first hip hop tune to go mainstream.
The other Chic tune I love is 'Give Me Your Love', of which there's a great reggae version courtesy of Studio One. This is the dub.
Enjoy!
Fab.
Edinburgh and Dublin totally went off, tonights gig in Bristol is almost sold out as is tomorrow night in London. Yeah!
Didn't really have a chance to go record shopping in America, but picked up a cheap copy of Chic's 1977 debut in Colorado, mainly for this tune.
Oooo, that bassline! Bernard Edwards is responsible for that bad boy, not to mention one of modern history's greatest bass lines on 'Good Times', which of course became Sugar Hill Gangs 'Rappers Delight', the first hip hop tune to go mainstream.
The other Chic tune I love is 'Give Me Your Love', of which there's a great reggae version courtesy of Studio One. This is the dub.
Enjoy!
Fab.
Monday 28 September 2009
Hey guys.
We've just finished the U.S tour and arrived in Europe. First show Edinburgh tomorrow night! Just want to say a huge thanks to John Browns Body who blew us away with the sheer force and style of their playing. New Zealand is in for a treat in November!
Also, a big thanks to everyone who came to the U.S shows. We sincerely appreciate your support. We'll be back in America very soon, and hopefully in Canada too.
In the meantime ... Solid Ground has just been loaded up onto AOL Spinner so check out the album in full here now. Enjoy! http://www.spinner.com/new-releases#/21. Peace.
We've just finished the U.S tour and arrived in Europe. First show Edinburgh tomorrow night! Just want to say a huge thanks to John Browns Body who blew us away with the sheer force and style of their playing. New Zealand is in for a treat in November!
Also, a big thanks to everyone who came to the U.S shows. We sincerely appreciate your support. We'll be back in America very soon, and hopefully in Canada too.
In the meantime ... Solid Ground has just been loaded up onto AOL Spinner so check out the album in full here now. Enjoy! http://www.spinner.com/new-releases#/21. Peace.
Thursday 24 September 2009
US Tour Doco 2
Checkout the latest shenanigans from our U.S tour, including getting stuck in lifts, strange fears of bugs... and even a couple of shows…
Wednesday 23 September 2009
USA Tour 09 Blog #4
Mishawaka tavern has so far been a highlight for me personally, although being at such an altitude is hard work the chur surroundings and the great vibe off the people sure made us feel very welcome!
We had come from Denver Colorado that day and pulled up to our more than pleasant hotel in Fort Collins itself it was an amazing day really hot! Craig gave the call as we were given our room keys “10 minutes back at the van leave for venue!” ha-ha 10 minutes slowly turned into 20 then 30 with questions been asked into the were abouts of Nigel and Dan. Craig looked everywhere they weren’t in there room they had disappeared!
40 minutes late Nigel and Dan walked out of the hotel only to have been stuck in the elevator for half an hour with a lady called Tina, help arrived the door was crow barred open and nobody was hurt, definitely provided a few laughs for us and some gold footage for our video blog! (http://theblackseeds.blogspot.com)
We had a nice drive into the country to the Mishawaka Tavern not only was it great to be in amongst some nature but was a good treat for the boyos! It was a mean gig and we were lucky enough to have it filmed so we have it on record forever yeya
Chur Mishawaka for a great time/gig/laugh
Andy.C
Tuesday 22 September 2009
10 days, 4000+ kilometers, 9 hotels, 6 states and 7 gigs.
The road-
We are past the half-way mark now after a mammoth trek across the Midwest. After a short stop in Iowa, corn capital of the U.S.A. we put the plains of Nebraska behind us and arrived in Colorado, home of the Rocky Mountains.
The band were all exited about checking the Rockies out and while driving into Boulder we got a glimpse (through the late summer haze). The word ‘vast’ comes to mind and we realized that to check out the Rockies properly you need to spend some time. Can’t wait to show John Browns Body the Remarkables in Queenstown when they tour with us in N.Z.
Boulder is a university town and was designed with the same concepts as a few other university towns in the US. These are really cool places with narrow leafy streets and open european style plazas. I love the feel of these towns.
The gig-
The Gothic theatre in Denver is an original vaudeville theatre built in 1908. It’s a classic old theatre and famous among musicians in the US for being a great gig. While it lives up to its name in terms of some of the gear, the atmosphere is thick with history and we had a blast. Very cool crowd and it was great to meet some of the US fans, in fact two people had driven from Mexico to see the gig. Right on!
One of the biggest questions that occurs in my day while on the road is what to eat.
My top three food stops in the US so far;
1. Any Whole Food Market.
These places are oasis’ of culinary paradise in the great strip mall of America. Organic food and products. Incredible salads, great coffee (!!!!) and more.
2. Short Stop Deli, Ithaca, NY.
The Grand Slam Ithaca Cheese Steak with horseradish was the best post-gig chow down I’ve ever had. If you go here, keep a good hour to get through one. Open since the sixties this place delivers the real deal. See photo.
3. Sals Pizza, NY, NY.
Many places claim to have authentic New York Pizza, this is what they aim for. The bass player from John Browns Body (respect) put me on to this one, cheers Nate!
So, onto Park City, Utah tomorrow and then the west coast. Cant wait to see the Pacific.
Ray Ray.
Sunday 20 September 2009
US Tour - Thanks Boulder, Colarado!
Heres a bit of onstage footage from our show in Boulder, Colarado on Thurs night. What an amazing crowd! Cheers Colorado. Hopefully see you again real soon!
Friday 18 September 2009
USA Tour 09 Blog #2
Day 4 - PHILADELPHIA
Well the day started like most other tour days, too early with too little sleep. Unlike most – we had had a night off the previous evening but I had decided it was a good idea to sample a few examples of the American classic “Budweiser” and as a token of their gratitude they had given me a mild hangover to help me enjoy my day with.
Morning routines completed I headed downstairs for some breakfast. Unfortunately my vegan dietary requirements had me heading back to my room empty handed apart from an OJ. I then attempted to open some granola packets I had purchased the previous day – obviously it was still too early for my brain to be functioning and I missed the easy to tear line and instead with all might sent almost half the packet showering over the hotel room (my apologises to the cleaner).
Breakfast completed met up with the rest of the band at the van. The van is like our home on the road – we spend most days in there often for long periods of time and often not in ideal comfort .It is a place to try and sleep (if your lucky) play play station, give each other a hard time, watch movies and basically anything that can keep us occupied whilst we traveling to our other tour favourite: the venue.
This mornings mission was to play four songs for the World Café Radio Show in central Philadelphia. Traffic was slow but allowed for some unscheduled sightseeing – I especially liked the building with a large whale mural across one side and also the building made entirely of mirror glass (it managed to camouflage itself in the clouds with its own reflection).
We were greeted jovially at the World Café – and we quickly got the gear inside and set-up. The studio itself was awesome! Nice acoustics and a relaxed atmosphere. We spent the next hour getting the sound right and then recorded our songs. A surprisingly good early morning effort from the guys had us all feeling good about the performance and leaving World Café in good spirits!!
The rest of the day was spent in the van driving – destination Iowa City!!!!
Cheers Nigel
Well the day started like most other tour days, too early with too little sleep. Unlike most – we had had a night off the previous evening but I had decided it was a good idea to sample a few examples of the American classic “Budweiser” and as a token of their gratitude they had given me a mild hangover to help me enjoy my day with.
Morning routines completed I headed downstairs for some breakfast. Unfortunately my vegan dietary requirements had me heading back to my room empty handed apart from an OJ. I then attempted to open some granola packets I had purchased the previous day – obviously it was still too early for my brain to be functioning and I missed the easy to tear line and instead with all might sent almost half the packet showering over the hotel room (my apologises to the cleaner).
Breakfast completed met up with the rest of the band at the van. The van is like our home on the road – we spend most days in there often for long periods of time and often not in ideal comfort .It is a place to try and sleep (if your lucky) play play station, give each other a hard time, watch movies and basically anything that can keep us occupied whilst we traveling to our other tour favourite: the venue.
This mornings mission was to play four songs for the World Café Radio Show in central Philadelphia. Traffic was slow but allowed for some unscheduled sightseeing – I especially liked the building with a large whale mural across one side and also the building made entirely of mirror glass (it managed to camouflage itself in the clouds with its own reflection).
We were greeted jovially at the World Café – and we quickly got the gear inside and set-up. The studio itself was awesome! Nice acoustics and a relaxed atmosphere. We spent the next hour getting the sound right and then recorded our songs. A surprisingly good early morning effort from the guys had us all feeling good about the performance and leaving World Café in good spirits!!
The rest of the day was spent in the van driving – destination Iowa City!!!!
Cheers Nigel
Tuesday 15 September 2009
USA Tour 09 Blog #1
NYC by Michael Fabulous
Arrived in Manhattan on a rainy afternoon on that infamous day, Sept 11.
The first thing that struck me was the umbrella’s everywhere. A Wellingtonian would never consider using an umbrella - the wind simply doesn’t tolerate them. (Wellington is the New Zealand capital where The Black Seeds are based, very windy).
We dumped the gear and had about 45 mins to get food before soundcheck. I set my personal music playing device to shuffle and had a very enjoyable walk, touching on Little Italy and China town…
List Of Top 5 Tunes From My Walk, in chronological order:
Three Minute Party – Disasteradio
Theme From Trouble Man – Marvin Gaye
Love And Happiness – Al Green
Du Ar For Fin For Mig – Dungen
Could We – Cat Power
The thing I’ve learnt about enjoying a city like NY is to not get sucked in by the crazy amount of attractive consumer options available. Even if you can’t afford anything, just looking at the shit is ultimately draining and soul destroying. You gotta not get sucked in and keep your eyes on the bigger picture to feel the city and preserve yourself.
That being said, food is a necessity as well as a consumer item, and as soon as I saw the welcoming neon green sign of the Excellent Noodle House, I knew that was me. I ordered Bok Choy with roasted garlic and dumplings (great) and Tiramisu (average).
Soundchecked, and did the gig not long after. It was fucking great to kill a show in NY at The Bowery Ballroom, great crowd. I really enjoyed myself and met lots of nice people. None of this would be possible with out JBB, who played a killer set to a packed house. Ups!
After, our friend Deva Mahal (great singer and songwriter – check her) took us to a great diner. I aced driving a 14-seater van in NYC on a Friday night! It seems like with NY in general, you just gotta jump in or you’re gonna get your ass whooped. Had an amazing waffle with rum butter, maple syrup and blueberrys. Thanks Deva!
Drove 40 mins to the accommodation, only to discover the Navman had reverted to LAST nights accommodation – another 50 min drive to the right place! Trying to get there before the hotel computers shut down at 5 am and we would be locked out till they reopened at 5:30. Made it, few hours sleep, back on the road.
I love you New York!
xx Fab
.
Arrived in Manhattan on a rainy afternoon on that infamous day, Sept 11.
The first thing that struck me was the umbrella’s everywhere. A Wellingtonian would never consider using an umbrella - the wind simply doesn’t tolerate them. (Wellington is the New Zealand capital where The Black Seeds are based, very windy).
We dumped the gear and had about 45 mins to get food before soundcheck. I set my personal music playing device to shuffle and had a very enjoyable walk, touching on Little Italy and China town…
List Of Top 5 Tunes From My Walk, in chronological order:
Three Minute Party – Disasteradio
Theme From Trouble Man – Marvin Gaye
Love And Happiness – Al Green
Du Ar For Fin For Mig – Dungen
Could We – Cat Power
The thing I’ve learnt about enjoying a city like NY is to not get sucked in by the crazy amount of attractive consumer options available. Even if you can’t afford anything, just looking at the shit is ultimately draining and soul destroying. You gotta not get sucked in and keep your eyes on the bigger picture to feel the city and preserve yourself.
That being said, food is a necessity as well as a consumer item, and as soon as I saw the welcoming neon green sign of the Excellent Noodle House, I knew that was me. I ordered Bok Choy with roasted garlic and dumplings (great) and Tiramisu (average).
Soundchecked, and did the gig not long after. It was fucking great to kill a show in NY at The Bowery Ballroom, great crowd. I really enjoyed myself and met lots of nice people. None of this would be possible with out JBB, who played a killer set to a packed house. Ups!
After, our friend Deva Mahal (great singer and songwriter – check her) took us to a great diner. I aced driving a 14-seater van in NYC on a Friday night! It seems like with NY in general, you just gotta jump in or you’re gonna get your ass whooped. Had an amazing waffle with rum butter, maple syrup and blueberrys. Thanks Deva!
Drove 40 mins to the accommodation, only to discover the Navman had reverted to LAST nights accommodation – another 50 min drive to the right place! Trying to get there before the hotel computers shut down at 5 am and we would be locked out till they reopened at 5:30. Made it, few hours sleep, back on the road.
I love you New York!
xx Fab
.
Tuesday 25 August 2009
Launching Seeds Online Community
Hey guys
Barnaby here from The Black Seeds
We’re stoked to be launching our Seeds Online Community. This is basically our way of both keeping you up to date with what we’re up to, as we’re doing it, AND to thankyou you for your support by offering you – The Community - things like discounts & priority access to our gig ticket, free and exclusive new Black Seeds music and content, competitions and prizes e.g festival ticket prizepacks….and lots lots more.
If you’re not already, all you have to do to receive these offers is to either -
sign up to our email database www.theblackseeds.com ,
become a fan on facebook www.facebook.com/theblackseeds ,
or a friend on myspace www.myspace.com/theblackseeds .
By doing this you’ll be informed about the great offers and promotions we do, as they happen.
The very first one is on offer this Friday!! - for a limited time get a free download to an unreleased, alternate version to the song ‘Come To Me’ off ‘Solid Ground’. The new version was recorded last summer at the Surgery with legendary NZ Reggae Mc’s – MC’s Mighty Asterix and Desta. Simply be part of the community by this Friday and receive the link to this track…..so spread the word to friends to join up before then!!
SEEDS BLOG:
The other major part of the community (and something we think you’re going to like!) is this new Blog! This is where we’ll be uploading info, photos and videos that me and the band make whilst we’re on tour, recording albums, making videos etc… and it also gives you the chance to chat with us, ask any questions etc.
This blog will be getting into full swing in 2 weeks with a major upcoming announcement (!), and then from the 10 Sept, hear about & see the action unfold here as we tour around the U.S.A!! This is a really exciting tour for the boys and with the support of Easy Star Records, we’re hoping we can make some big inroads into North America. This will then continue as we tour throughout around the UK, Germany, France, and Switzerland from 29 Sept. Just click on the link in the bottom left hand corner now to become a follower!
Some exciting announcements coming your way in a couple of weeks time so stay tuned!
Thanks guys for all your support guys and looking forward to hearing from ya!
Barnaby – The Black Seeds
Barnaby here from The Black Seeds
We’re stoked to be launching our Seeds Online Community. This is basically our way of both keeping you up to date with what we’re up to, as we’re doing it, AND to thankyou you for your support by offering you – The Community - things like discounts & priority access to our gig ticket, free and exclusive new Black Seeds music and content, competitions and prizes e.g festival ticket prizepacks….and lots lots more.
If you’re not already, all you have to do to receive these offers is to either -
sign up to our email database www.theblackseeds.com ,
become a fan on facebook www.facebook.com/theblackseeds ,
or a friend on myspace www.myspace.com/theblackseeds .
By doing this you’ll be informed about the great offers and promotions we do, as they happen.
The very first one is on offer this Friday!! - for a limited time get a free download to an unreleased, alternate version to the song ‘Come To Me’ off ‘Solid Ground’. The new version was recorded last summer at the Surgery with legendary NZ Reggae Mc’s – MC’s Mighty Asterix and Desta. Simply be part of the community by this Friday and receive the link to this track…..so spread the word to friends to join up before then!!
SEEDS BLOG:
The other major part of the community (and something we think you’re going to like!) is this new Blog! This is where we’ll be uploading info, photos and videos that me and the band make whilst we’re on tour, recording albums, making videos etc… and it also gives you the chance to chat with us, ask any questions etc.
This blog will be getting into full swing in 2 weeks with a major upcoming announcement (!), and then from the 10 Sept, hear about & see the action unfold here as we tour around the U.S.A!! This is a really exciting tour for the boys and with the support of Easy Star Records, we’re hoping we can make some big inroads into North America. This will then continue as we tour throughout around the UK, Germany, France, and Switzerland from 29 Sept. Just click on the link in the bottom left hand corner now to become a follower!
Some exciting announcements coming your way in a couple of weeks time so stay tuned!
Thanks guys for all your support guys and looking forward to hearing from ya!
Barnaby – The Black Seeds
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