Pangs

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When I was a kid, growing up in poverty
Living in a tumbled down rental property
Mum did the best she could but our life was so cruel
I only had one meal a day, that was from school

Only had a chess set made from cardboard tubes
No toys to play with except an old inner tube
Our toilet was outside, down the cold garden path
Never had a bathroom just a beat up tin bath

At the weekends we went to me Nan’s to be fed
Otherwise we’d have to stay tucked up in our bed
It were so cold and there was ice on the inside
There’s always been child hunger and a great divide

There’s plenty of fresh food and cash to go around
But the rich too callous to pass anything round
Heads down in the trough, they cannot spare a single buck
They’re so mean they really don’t give a flying fuck

Here comes Sir Rashford to teach you what is right
While you take the piss and and care not of their plight
What I remember most is that nobody cared
We’re always despised as poor, dirty and impaired…

Photo by Henri Mathieu-Saint-Laurent

Radicalise

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A steady drip, a whispered lie,
Like poison falling from the sky.
Each drop, a word with sharpened edge,
A bitter oath, a broken pledge.

It starts so small, a subtle sting,
A wound too faint for reckoning.
But day by day, the echo grows—
The seed is fed, the venom sows.

A friend becomes a foe in time,
Truth bends beneath the weight of rhyme.
No flood, no fire, no sudden blaze—
Just steady drips that twist and raise.

Until the heart, once soft and wide,
Is armored thick with hate inside.
And in the mirror, none can trace
The kindness lost without a trace.

Photo by Karola G

Being Free

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To be the wind and not the wall,
To rise each time the shadows fall,
To laugh aloud with open skies,
And wipe the doubt from dreaming eyes—

That is to be free.

To roam where rivers carve the land,
No leash, no chain, no harsh command,
To speak your truth and walk your pace,
With no disguise upon your face—

That is to be free.

Not just the flight, but knowing why,
Not just the stars, but how they lie
Across a world you call your own,
And still feel whole when you’re alone—

That is to be free.

No gate, no guard, no debt, no plea,
Just breath, and thought, and memory,
A soul unshackled, fierce and wild,
As brave as love, as pure as child—

Yes. That is to be free.

Photo by Pixabay

The Clash – A Punk Revolution Begins

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When The Clash released their self-titled debut album in 1977, they weren’t just joining the punk movement—they were redefining it. While the Sex Pistols embodied anarchy and shock value, The Clash delivered something sharper: urgency with purpose, rebellion with brains, and raw energy with a social conscience.

The Sound of Discontent

From the opening crash of “Janie Jones,” The Clash announces itself as a street-level report from Britain’s working class. The guitars are jagged, the tempos relentless, and Joe Strummer’s sneering vocals bristle with conviction. Songs like “White Riot” and “London’s Burning” channel the frustration of youth watching a society crumble under unemployment, inequality, and political indifference.

Yet beneath the aggression lies melody and structure. Mick Jones’s guitar lines cut through the noise with precision, and Paul Simonon’s bass provides a reggae-inflected groove that hints at the band’s broader musical interests. That fusion of punk and reggae would become one of The Clash’s defining traits.

Punk with Purpose

What makes The Clash stand out from its peers is its political edge. Strummer and Jones weren’t just angry—they had something to say. “Career Opportunities” skewers the bleak job market, “Garageland” mocks the band’s early critics, and “Remote Control” attacks the music industry’s hypocrisy. Even their cover of Junior Murvin’s “Police & Thieves,” stretched out to a dub-like six minutes, shows a rare empathy and cultural curiosity within punk’s often narrow framework.

Raw but Revolutionary

The album’s production, handled by Mickey Foote, captures the energy of a band barely contained by the studio walls. It’s not polished—far from it—but that’s part of its appeal. You can feel the grit, the sweat, the immediacy. It’s a document of a young band still learning, still fighting, and already unstoppable.

Legacy

Nearly fifty years later, The Clash remains a touchstone for political rock and punk authenticity. It’s the sound of a generation realizing that rebellion could be intelligent, that protest could be poetic, and that music could be a weapon.

For many, The Clash isn’t just an album—it’s a manifesto.

Essential tracks: “Janie Jones,” “White Riot,” “Police & Thieves,” “Garageland.”
Released: 1977 (UK) / 1979 (US) — CBS Records

Photo by Jonathan Cooper

The Ukulele: A Tiny Instrument with a Big Heart

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Introduction

In the world of musical instruments, there’s something charmingly unique about the ukulele. With its small size and cheerful sound, the ukulele has captured the hearts of musicians and enthusiasts around the world. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating history, versatile appeal, and enduring popularity of the ukulele.

The Origin Story

The ukulele, pronounced “oo-koo-lei-lee,” has a rich history rooted in Hawaiian culture. Its name even means “jumping flea” in Hawaiian, possibly due to the swift finger movements required to play it. The instrument was introduced to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants in the late 19th century, where it underwent several transformations to become the ukulele we know today.

Early ukuleles were made from wood and had four strings, typically tuned to G-C-E-A, creating a bright and joyful sound. Over the years, the ukulele gained popularity in Hawaii and eventually made its way to the mainland United States, sparking a craze during the early 20th century.

Versatility and Accessibility

One of the ukulele’s most appealing aspects is its accessibility to beginners. It’s relatively easy to learn, thanks to its manageable size and simple chord structures. Novices can quickly pick up basic chords and strumming patterns, making it an excellent entry point for anyone interested in playing a musical instrument.

Furthermore, the ukulele is versatile in terms of musical genres. While it’s often associated with Hawaiian music and island vibes, it can be used to play a wide range of music, including pop, rock, folk, and even classical pieces. Its adaptability has led to its inclusion in various musical styles, from indie folk bands to mainstream pop hits.

The Sound of Sunshine

The ukulele’s distinctive sound is like a ray of musical sunshine. Its bright and cheerful tones evoke feelings of happiness and nostalgia. Whether you’re strumming on a beachside bonfire or playing in the comfort of your own living room, the ukulele has a unique ability to lift spirits and bring people together through music.

Many artists have incorporated the ukulele into their music, creating iconic songs that showcase its charm. Tracks like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole and “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz are perfect examples of how the ukulele’s sound can transport listeners to a place of serenity and joy.

A Community of Ukulele Enthusiasts

The ukulele community is a tight-knit and passionate group of musicians and enthusiasts. Ukulele clubs, meetups, and festivals are held worldwide, where people gather to strum, sing, and share their love for the instrument. These gatherings foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among ukulele enthusiasts, making it not just an instrument but a lifestyle.

The Ukulele’s Enduring Popularity

Despite its diminutive size, the ukulele has proven to be a musical powerhouse with enduring popularity. Its resurgence in the 21st century, often credited to YouTube tutorials and viral covers, has introduced a new generation to its charms. Its affordability and portability make it an excellent choice for musicians of all ages and skill levels.

Conclusion

The ukulele is more than just a musical instrument; it’s a symbol of joy, unity, and the power of music to connect people. From its humble beginnings in Hawaii to its widespread appeal across the globe, the ukulele has left an indelible mark on the world of music. So, whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner looking for a musical adventure, consider picking up a ukulele and joining the ever-growing community of ukulele enthusiasts. You’ll discover that this tiny instrument has a big heart and a world of music waiting to be explored.

Photo by cottonbro studio.

Exploring the Harmony of Music: A Dive into Chords

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Introduction

Music, the universal language of emotions, has the remarkable ability to convey feelings, stories, and moods. At the heart of this expressive art form lies harmony, and one of the fundamental building blocks of harmony is the chord. Chords provide the backbone of music, shaping its emotional depth and complexity. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at chords in music, exploring their history, types, and their role in creating the musical tapestry that surrounds us.

The Basics of Chords

A chord is a group of three or more notes played together to produce a harmonious sound. These notes are typically derived from a scale, and when played simultaneously, they create a sense of stability or tension within a musical composition. Chords are like the colors on a painter’s palette, each with its unique flavor and impact on the overall picture.

Types of Chords

  1. Major Chords: Known for their bright and happy sound, major chords consist of three notes: the root, the major third, and the perfect fifth. For example, in the key of C, a C major chord comprises the notes C, E, and G.
  2. Minor Chords: In contrast to major chords, minor chords evoke a somber or melancholic mood. They consist of the root, the minor third, and the perfect fifth. In the key of A, an A minor chord consists of A, C, and E.
  3. Diminished Chords: Diminished chords are characterized by their dissonance and instability. They consist of the root, the minor third, and the diminished fifth. For example, a B diminished chord includes B, D, and F.
  4. Augmented Chords: Augmented chords have an unsettled, dreamy quality and consist of the root, the major third, and the augmented fifth. An example is the C augmented chord with the notes C, E, and G#.
  5. Seventh Chords: Seventh chords add an extra layer of complexity by including the seventh note of the scale. There are various types of seventh chords, such as major seventh, minor seventh, and dominant seventh, each with its unique sound and function.

The Role of Chords in Music

Chords play several vital roles in music:

  1. Harmonic Foundation: Chords establish the harmonic framework of a composition. They provide a sense of tonality and key, allowing listeners to identify the overall mood and structure of a piece.
  2. Emotional Expression: Different chords convey different emotions. Major chords often evoke happiness and triumph, while minor chords can express sadness and introspection. Composers and songwriters use this emotional palette to tell their stories and connect with their audience.
  3. Tension and Release: Chords can create tension and release within a piece of music. The resolution of a tense chord progression to a more stable one is a fundamental aspect of musical storytelling.
  4. Color and Texture: Chords contribute to the color and texture of a musical composition. By choosing the right chords and voicings, musicians can create rich, layered sonic landscapes.
  5. Chord Progressions: The sequence of chords in a piece, known as a chord progression, is the backbone of many songs. Iconic progressions like the I-IV-V in pop music or the ii-V-I in jazz are instantly recognizable and can define a genre.

Conclusion

Chords are the glue that holds music together, offering a vast array of expressive possibilities to composers, songwriters, and performers. From the simple joy of a major chord to the complex emotions of extended harmonies, chords are the foundation upon which musical masterpieces are built. Whether you’re a musician or a music lover, understanding chords can deepen your appreciation of this art form, allowing you to hear and feel the harmonious beauty of the world of music. So, the next time you listen to your favorite song, pay attention to the chords, and you might discover a new layer of musical magic.

Love is Stronger

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They sit in cracked armchairs,
bitter brews in hand,
spitting out the past
like it was ever grand.

Tongues stained with hatred,
eyes glazed with fear,
clutching faded banners
no one wants to hear.

Time moves forward,
but they clutch the chain,
dragging their poison
through memory’s stain.

Let them wither,
let their voices fade,
for love is stronger
than the bile they’ve made.

Photo by Kelly

Busy

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I’m too busy
Too many tasks, too many clocks
Lists scrawled, lists lost
Can’t see the wood for the trees—
and the trees are shouting at me.

I’m too busy
The day hasn’t even started,
but already I’m behind.
My head fills with noise,
the ticking, the guilt.
Fuck it. Go to the pub.
Drown the to-do list in pints.

I’m too busy—
even when I’m doing nothing

Photo by ELEVATE