On Sunday 29th June 2025, Crystal Palace Park transformed into a haven for music lovers as Festival Republic brought together an eclectic lineup headlined by the legendary Deftones. The Italian Terraces echoed with sounds ranging from soulful jazz to blistering industrial metal, offering a day of sonic exploration that was as unpredictable as it was unforgettable.
Showing posts with label Photography. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Photography. Show all posts
2025-06-28
2025-06-28 Linkin Park at Wembley: A Night of Power, Poise, and Heart
On Saturday 28th June 2025, Linkin Park took the stage at Wembley Stadium for what was billed as their biggest show ever. Part of the From Zero World Tour, the night was a celebration of resilience, connection, and the enduring power of music to move us—even when words fall short.
2025-06-22
2025-06-22 Forever Now Festival 2025: A Day of Sonic Nostalgia and Surprises
Milton Keynes Bowl played host to the inaugural Forever Now Festival, a celebration of post-punk, new wave, goth, and alternative rock. With a lineup stacked with legends and cult favourites, the day unfolded like a mixtape of musical eras—chaotic, polished, droney, and euphoric.
2025-06-14
2025-06-14 Download Festival 2025: Echoes of Donington Past and Present-Day Pains
I took my kids to their first festival on the Saturday this year, and while it didn’t quite match the glory days of Donington—those unforgettable Monsters of Rock events in 1990, ’91, ’92, and ’95—it still had its moments. The weather was kind, with just 20 minutes of rain, and we came prepared. No soggy socks, no drama.
2025-05-25
2025-05-25 Anfield Ascension: Liverpool Crowned Champions, My Treble Complete
On Sunday 25th May 2025, Anfield erupted in a sea of red as Liverpool lifted the Premier League trophy after a 1–1 draw against Crystal Palace. It was a moment decades in the making—the first time since 1990 that the Reds hoisted the league title in front of a packed home crowd. For me, it marked something even more personal: the completion of my domestic treble of trophy lifts.
2025-05-14
2025-05-13 and 2025-05-14 Twenty One Pilots at The O2: A Tale of Two Nights and One Epic Finale
After Slipknot at Christmas, it was Child #2’s turn to step into the spotlight—and what better way than two nights at The O2 Arena with their uncle and me, watching the magnificent, genre-defying Twenty One Pilots. From the moment we arrived, the excitement was palpable. And the best part? We got to do it all over again the next night.
2024-03-01
1988
PlasticSole
Love this song. I think it was the first one we played together in our first rehearsal back in autumn 1995, when 1988 seemed so long ago!!!
I took this photo on the same trip to London as the cover photo from the previous single, She's On My Mind. It features my mother, who I noticed was perfectly framed by the London Underground signature tubelike tunnels. Really nice to be able to feature her in some of the band's artwork, as she is so integral to the lore of the band.
2024-02-01
She's On My Mind
PlasticSole
I took this photo on a train to London. The scene encapsulated, for me, young love, two people happy in each other's company, to the exclusion of the rest of the world.
2023-12-28
2023-12-28 Christmas At Kew
My Magical Evening at Christmas At Kew
I had the opportunity to visit the Christmas At Kew Gardens 2023 exhibition, a spectacular light trail that transforms the botanical gardens into a winter wonderland. It was one of the most amazing experiences of it's kind I’ve ever had, and I want to share some of the highlights with you.
The exhibition ran from 15 November 2023 to 7 January 2024, and featured eight new installations along the trail, including giant illuminated flowers, cascading lights suspended from the tree canopy, and 100 ‘floating’ candles. For the first time, Kew’s iconic contemporary art installation, The Hive, also features on the trail, creating a mesmerising display of sound and light .
The trail is about 3km long and takes about 2 hours to walk around, while stopping for refreshments and attractions along the way. There are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate. You can also toast marshmallows over a fire pit, enjoy a fairground ride, or catch a glimpse of Father Christmas .
The best part of the evening, however, was seeing the stunning light shows that illuminated the gardens with vibrant colours and patterns. Some of my favourites were the Cathedral of Light, a 100m-long tunnel of over a million pea-lights; the Firework Trees, a grove of heritage trees wrapped in sparkling lights that changed colour to music; and the Palm House Finale, a dazzling display of lasers and projections on the iconic glasshouse .
I took some photos of the exhibition and created a Flickr slideshow to share with you. You can view it below or click here to see it on Flickr. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Christmas At Kew is a must-see event for anyone who loves lights, nature, and festive cheer. It’s a magical way to celebrate the season and admire the beauty of Kew Gardens.
2023-12-08
Frank Turner & Guise - The Fairytale of New York
The wonderful Frank Turner and Guise performing The Pogues essential Christmas song, The Fairytale of New York, on the day of Shane MacGowan's funeral.
This was part of an intimate hometown gig for Frank on December 8th 2024, at The Railway Inn, Winchester.
2023-11-02
From my first baseball game to the World Series - following the Texas Rangers
I've loved following the Rangers this season, even though it's meant staying up late to watch games from the UK. It's all been worth it, though, to see the team finally reach the top of the mountain.
Congratulations to the Rangers on an amazing season!
As a Brit, I've always been fascinated by American culture, and baseball is a big part of that. So when I had the opportunity to visit the US in August 2022, I knew I had to go to a baseball game. I chose the Texas Rangers vs. Oakland Athletics game at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, and I'm so glad I did.
My wife and I arrived at the ballpark early to soak up the atmosphere. There were people of all ages and backgrounds, all excited to see the Rangers play. We visited the award winning vegan concession stand where we bought a hot dog, nachos and drinks, and the found our seats.
The game itself was amazing. The Rangers won, but it was more than just the score that made it so special. The stadium created a truly unique atmosphere. We were also impressed by the skill and athleticism of the players.
One of the things I loved most about the game was the sense of community. Everyone was there to have a good time, and there was a real camaraderie among the fans. I also appreciated the fact that the game was affordable and accessible to people of all ages and incomes.
Before and during the game, I walked around the stadium and took some photos. I wanted to capture the memories of this special day. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to experience a baseball game at Globe Life Field. It was an unforgettable experience, and it made me fall in love with the sport.
If you're ever in the US during baseball season, I highly recommend going to a game. It's a truly unique and American experience.
2023-10-28
Raw Talent Takes Center Stage: Tigercub at The Craufurd Arms
Tigercub, a rising star in the indie rock scene, brought their A-game, delivering a performance that was nothing short of phenomenal. The raw energy and passion they poured into every note resonated with the crowd, creating an electric connection that pulsed through the room.
The Craufurd Arms, known for championing small, up-and-coming talent, once again proved why it's the epicenter of Milton Keynes' music community. Its dedication to providing a platform for artists like Tigercub is commendable and essential for nurturing the next generation of musical greats.
The intimacy of the venue allowed for a close and personal experience with the band, something that's often lost in larger arenas. It felt like Tigercub was playing just for us, creating an unforgettable bond between the audience and the stage.
In a world dominated by mega-stadiums, venues like The Craufurd Arms remind us of the magic that can happen in more intimate spaces. Here, music isn't just heard, it's felt, experienced, and cherished.
If you're a music lover in Milton Keynes, The Craufurd Arms is your sanctuary. It's where the pulse of the local music scene beats strongest, and where unforgettable nights like these are born. Kudos to both Tigercub and The Craufurd Arms for an evening that will echo in the hearts of everyone present. 🎶🔥
The intimacy of the venue allowed for a close and personal experience with the band, something that's often lost in larger arenas. It felt like Tigercub was playing just for us, creating an unforgettable bond between the audience and the stage.
In a world dominated by mega-stadiums, venues like The Craufurd Arms remind us of the magic that can happen in more intimate spaces. Here, music isn't just heard, it's felt, experienced, and cherished.
2023-10-25
2023-10-24 NOAHFINNCE, The Dome, Tufnell Park, London
The Flickr album below contains mostly videos
2023-09-16
A Rainy September Stroll: Capturing the Beauty of Durham
Durham Cathedral: A Timeless Majesty
The heart of Durham, both geographically and spiritually, is undoubtedly its awe-inspiring Cathedral. Through the lens of my camera, I sought to encapsulate its grandeur from various angles and vantage points. From the banks of the River Wear to the charming nooks and crannies of the city's streets, each click was a tribute to the centuries of history that stood before me.
Majestic in Every Frame
The rain-slicked stones of the Cathedral's exterior seemed to shimmer, accentuating the intricate details of its Gothic architecture. The centuries-old edifice seemed to defy time itself, a testament to the craftsmanship of those who built it. As I meandered through the cloisters, the play of light and shadow revealed a cathedral that seemed to breathe with life.
Streets that Whisper History
While the Cathedral stood tall and proud, the streets surrounding it whispered tales of centuries gone by. Cobbled pathways, lined with quaint shops and charming residences, created a tapestry of urban history. Each corner turned, every hidden alley discovered, painted a vivid picture of Durham's vibrant past.
Weathered Elegance
The persistent drizzle lent an air of melancholy to the city, casting a subtle veil over the streets. It was as if the weather itself paid homage to the resilience of Durham, a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.
Conclusion
As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty that Durham had bestowed upon me. Through the lens of my camera, I had captured a glimpse of a city that held within its stones the echoes of centuries. The rain, far from being a hindrance, had bestowed a unique character upon my photographs, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of this enchanting place.
Durham, with its Cathedral and streets, had revealed itself in all its rainy splendor. It was a day well spent, a walk well remembered, and a city forever etched in my memory.
2023-09-15
A Glimpse into Academic Grandeur: Exploring Cambridge University
Kings College: A Tapestry of Elegance
With its spires piercing the sky, Kings College stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of ages past. The intricate detailing of its façade and the tranquil beauty of its courtyard served as the perfect prelude to what lay within.
Regal Resplendence
As I entered the hallowed halls of Kings, I was immediately struck by the opulence that surrounded me. The grandeur of the dining room, with its soaring ceilings and ornate chandeliers, was a sight to behold. It was a place where centuries of scholars had gathered, their intellectual pursuits echoing in the very air.
The Library: A Sanctuary of Knowledge
In the heart of Kings College, the library stood as a sanctuary of wisdom. Rows upon rows of books, their spines worn with age, whispered tales of knowledge accumulated through the ages. The hushed reverence that filled the room was a testament to the enduring legacy of learning.
Accommodations Fit for Scholars
The rooms of Kings College exuded a timeless elegance, blending modern comfort with the echoes of centuries gone by. Each space seemed to beckon with a promise of quiet contemplation, a haven for academic pursuits.
Lucy Cavendish College: A Haven of Warmth
In contrast to the regality of Kings, Lucy Cavendish College welcomed me with an air of familiarity and warmth. The intimacy of its spaces, the cozy dining room, and the inviting accommodations, spoke of a community united by a shared pursuit of knowledge.
A Dining Room of Camaraderie
The dining room at Lucy Cavendish exuded a sense of camaraderie, where conversations flowed freely and friendships were forged over shared meals. It was a space that embodied the inclusive spirit of the college, a place where minds came together.
Cozy Corners of Comfort
The accommodations at Lucy Cavendish were a blend of comfort and functionality. Each room, though modest in size, exuded a sense of belonging. It was a place where ideas could be nurtured, and dreams could take root.
Library: Where Dreams Take Flight
The library at Lucy Cavendish, though more intimate in scale, was no less rich in resources. It was a space where the aspirations of scholars found wings, where the pursuit of knowledge was encouraged and celebrated.
Conclusion
My visit to Cambridge University was an experience that transcended the visual. It was an immersion into a world where the pursuit of knowledge is revered, where history lives and breathes within the walls. Through my photographs, I hope to share a glimpse of this extraordinary journey, an ode to the academic grandeur of Cambridge.
2023-08-16
2023-08-15 Bell Witch
Bell Witch Bring Their Ethereal Doom to Oslo
On Tuesday, August 15th, 2023, Bell Witch brought their ethereal doom to Oslo in Hackney, London. The band played a set of their signature slow, heavy, and atmospheric music, and the crowd was completely captivated.
The setlist was just their 83-minute, single-song album "Future’s Shadow Part 1: The Clandestine Gate" in it's entirety. It is the first volume in a trilogy meant to loop eternally. The band's sound was full and rich, and their live performance was even more powerful than their recorded output.
The crowd was mostly silent (and those that weren't were quickly told to be) as the band played, and by the end of the evening, everyone was completely transported.
If you're a fan of slow, heavy, and atmospheric music, then you definitely need to check out Bell Witch. They are one of the most unique and talented bands in the genre, and their live shows are truly unforgettable.
Click here to see a Flickr album of pictures and videos from the concert.
2023-08-08
Capturing Memories: A Picturesque Getaway to The Lizard, Cornwall
I'm pleased to share my recent vacation adventure to The Lizard in Cornwall, a place of stunning landscapes, charming coastal walks, and captivating sunsets. As always, my trusty camera accompanied me on this journey, capturing the beauty of every moment. But this time, there's a special twist - some of the incredible shots were taken by none other than my talented daughter, adding her unique perspective to the mix.
Cliffside Circular Walk from Porthleven
Our vacation kicked off with a breathtaking cliffside circular walk starting from Porthleven. The rugged coastline, crashing waves, and the salty breeze combined to create a truly mesmerizing experience. My daughter had her camera ready to go, and her shots perfectly encapsulate the raw beauty of this landscape. From towering cliffs to hidden coves, the walk was a visual feast that we're thrilled to share with you.
Sunset Magic: Mullion to Penzance
One of the highlights of our trip was witnessing a sunset that painted the sky with hues of gold, pink, and orange. The view from Mullion to Penzance was simply enchanting, and we were lucky enough to be there during the Lands End Fireworks. Capturing the vivid bursts of light against the backdrop of the setting sun was a challenge, but the results were more than worth it. These shots truly encapsulate the magic of that evening.
A Day Trip to St. Ives
St. Ives, with its picturesque harbor, quaint streets, and artistic vibe, was a delightful day trip. The play of light and shadow on the colorful houses and the shimmering waters provided endless opportunities for photography. We strolled through narrow lanes, enjoyed the local cuisine, and of course, captured the essence of this charming town through our lenses.
Exploring Glendurgan Gardens
Our visit to the National Trust Glendurgan Gardens was like stepping into a lush paradise. Amidst vibrant blooms, winding paths, and hidden corners, we uncovered the beauty of nature's canvas. The highlight of this garden expedition was undoubtedly the maze, a whimsical labyrinth that offered not only a fun challenge but also some fantastic photo opportunities.
I hope you enjoy these glimpses of our vacation as much as we enjoyed capturing them. Cornwall's rugged coastline, charming towns, and vibrant gardens provided the perfect backdrop for our photography escapades. Don't forget to click on the Flickr album link to see our photos and experience the magic of The Lizard through our lenses.
2023-07-17
2023-07-17 - Abbey Road Studios
I got to go in Studio 2 (The Beatles studio), touch the Lady Madonna piano, and listen to Brian May talk about Eddie Van Halen for 90 minutes. An absolute brilliant afternoon.
I only took a few photos, given the nature of the event, but here they are
A Instagram video of the even can be found here:
2023-06-30
Instamatic Camera
PlasticSole
I took the photo on the cover, half hanging out of a Friend's spare bedroom window. The whole gorgeous sunset, I tried my best to capture, can be seen in these photos https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAHmrs
2023-06-11
2023/06/10 Oxford
Oxford is a city steeped in history and culture, and there are many points of interest to see. If you're planning a trip to Oxford, be sure to check out this Flickr album, which contains photos of some of the city's most popular attractions.
The album includes photos of the Bodleian Library, the Sheldonian Theatre, and Radcliffe Camera. These are just a few of the many beautiful buildings in Oxford. The album also includes photos of Oxford University, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world.
In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Oxford is also a great place to simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are many parks and gardens to explore. If you're looking for a place to take a break from sightseeing, be sure to check out one of Oxford's many parks or gardens.
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