These are seven of my favourite cover versions.
Number 96 - Absolutely Sweet Marie by Jason and The Scorchers
They are not really a punk band, but this cover of Bob Dylans song from his 1966 album Blonde on Blonde is a great punk version of not one of Bob's strongest tunes. I found it on an album of Bob Dylan covers called "The Songs of Bob Dylan" and this is the stand out track. Recorded by the band as a bonus track on their otherwise self penned album "Fervor", at the time it was said to be a ground breaking cover. Because it is such an original, but obvious, take on this song. Isn't YouTube great? First time I have seen what the band looks like.
Number 97 - Promised Land by Johnny Allan
I first heard the Johnny Allan version when it was played regularly on Terry Wogan's breakfast show in the late seventies and eighties and has always been one of my favourites. Originally composed and recorded by Chuck Berry on his 1964 album "St Louis to Liverpool", Allan's Cajun version was released in the UK in 1974. To own his recording, I had to buy an album called "Alligator Stomp". This is a collection of Cajun and zydeco music originating from Louisiana, the latter famous for Clifton Chenier who is referenced on Paul Simon's album "Graceland". Again, thanks to YouTube, I can see Johnny for the very first time. The live recording on the excerpt from Jools Holland's "Walking to New Orleans" is brilliant.
Number 98 - Always On My Mind by The Pet Shop Boys
Originally recorded by Brenda Lee in 1972, this song was written by Johnny Christopher, Mark James and Wayne Carson Thomson. Her version was not successful, but it was soon picked up the same year by Elvis to become one of his standards. I have to admit (not being a great Elvis fan) that this is a terrific recording. But not as good as that by The Pet Shop Boys. In 1987, on a TV programme to honour the tenth anniversary of the death of Elvis, they presented their version of his classic. It was so well received that they released it as a single, and it became the Christmas number one for that year. In 2004, The Daily Telegraph had it as number two of the top fifty cover versions of all time. Agreed.
Number 99 - The Day Before You came by Blancmange
When I first heard this on the radio, I didn't know it was an Abba song. Now I have heard the original, the cover still sounds better. The song was recorded by Abba in 1982 during their last ever session in the studio. Blancmange's version did slightly better in the charts when it was released two years later. It is the vocal of Neil Arthur and the rhythmic synth of Stephen Luscombe that makes their recording so originally poignant. The lyrics are some of the best in popular music, but only Arthur captures the the mood so well.
Number 100 - Put the Message in the Box by Gina Villalobos
After leaving Mike Scott's Waterboys, Karl Wallinger formed World Party and released their first album in 1986. It was on their second album "Goodbye Jumbo" that they included "Put the Message in the Box". But it is the track from the album "Rock "N" Roll Pony" by Gina Villalobos that I found this wonderful cover version. All the other tracks on the album are written by Gina, but I have to say that the cover is the stand out song. Just superb.
Number 101 - This Old Skin by The Beautiful South
Although I love listening to all their earlier material, I just feel that the Paul Heaton penned songs lack a certain emotional punch that would take them straight into my 131 songs. But on "Golddiggas Headnodders and Pholk Songs", an album of covers by The Beautiful South comes the terrific "This Old Skin". Composed by Bobby Cristiansand and Barry Klein of the band The Heppelbaums, (fictional characters in fact, the song was actually written by Paul Heaton and Dave Rotheray - so not really a cover), it has a fabulously amusing country folk sound, not least for the additional vocals of Chip Taylor. Check out "The Heppelbaums" on YouTube with Paul in a wonderful blond wig.
Number 102 - Hard Rain's a-Gonna Fall by Brian Ferry
Written by Bob Dylan in the summer of 1962 and recorded for his second album "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan", it appeared on "These Foolish Things", a 1973 album of covers by Bryan Ferry. This was his first solo effort after Roxy Music disbanded. But it is no surprise that what gives this track something special is the guitar of Phil Manzanera, who was also lead guitarist with Roxy Music. It sounds just like a track from this group's recordings.
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Win Win, Hereafter and X-Men First Class
A family drama about a boy's wrestling team hardly begins to describe this brilliant movie. In fact this description almost put me off going to see it. But the reviews for Win Win were very good and I can now understand why. Not only was the screenplay sublime, but each scene seemed perfect in their length and pace. For example, any scene that included some wrestling ( and there were not that many) was perfect in duration. The editing was so good and the direction by Tom McCarthy was superb. Paul Giamatti and Amy Ryan as the parents were outstanding and newcomer Alex Shaffer as teenager Kyle was too. I will never forget the scene when Amy Ryan shows Kyle her "JBJ" tattoo. And I have to mention the terrific soundtrack. It's a long time since I stayed in my seat for the whole of a song over the closing credits, but "Think You Can Wait" by The National had me pinned down from the first chord. It also credits the participation of Sharon Van Etten whose short CD "Epic" is a small treasure. All in all it's win win all round.
There are times when it is well worth it to disregard the critics, and Hereafter falls into that category. OK, I did find the inclusion of two recent disasters somewhat distasteful, and there was something slightly tacky about the portrayal of the afterlife. But there are few enough dramas that we can get sniffy about any silliness in the plot. So we have a good script by Peter Morgan, and an interesting story that alternates successfully between locations in France, London and San Francisco. Clint Eastwood does a good job as director and the acting, led by Matt Damon, is generally fine. But what stood out for me, and a reason to see the movie if no other, was the locations ( and the film was shot almost entirely on location) and their photography. There were three London locations that are now on my list to visit: Alexandra Palace (never been since it was restored), the Dickens Museum on Doughty Street and Leadenhall Market in the city ( also used as Diagon Ally in the HP movies). This was the third time recently that I have caught up with films I had missed by going to the cheap Senior Screen on Wednesday mornings. After True Grit and Never Let Me Go, I enjoyed Hereafter more than the other two.
I normally now steer well clear of superhero movies, but the reviews for X-Men First Class were encouraging. It was quiet amazing to see the British domination of this Hollywood blockbuster. Not only do we have Mathew Vaughn doing a great job as director, but the two leading characters are played by James McEvoy and the always excellent Michael Fassbender. (I think it was his inclusion that persuaded me to go). The script was pretty good and the back stories of Professor Charles Xavier and Eric Lehnsherr (Magneto) worked well. The action scenes in the early part of the movie were not too long, it was just a shame that the drawn out ending let down what was otherwise an enjoyable treat.
There are times when it is well worth it to disregard the critics, and Hereafter falls into that category. OK, I did find the inclusion of two recent disasters somewhat distasteful, and there was something slightly tacky about the portrayal of the afterlife. But there are few enough dramas that we can get sniffy about any silliness in the plot. So we have a good script by Peter Morgan, and an interesting story that alternates successfully between locations in France, London and San Francisco. Clint Eastwood does a good job as director and the acting, led by Matt Damon, is generally fine. But what stood out for me, and a reason to see the movie if no other, was the locations ( and the film was shot almost entirely on location) and their photography. There were three London locations that are now on my list to visit: Alexandra Palace (never been since it was restored), the Dickens Museum on Doughty Street and Leadenhall Market in the city ( also used as Diagon Ally in the HP movies). This was the third time recently that I have caught up with films I had missed by going to the cheap Senior Screen on Wednesday mornings. After True Grit and Never Let Me Go, I enjoyed Hereafter more than the other two.
I normally now steer well clear of superhero movies, but the reviews for X-Men First Class were encouraging. It was quiet amazing to see the British domination of this Hollywood blockbuster. Not only do we have Mathew Vaughn doing a great job as director, but the two leading characters are played by James McEvoy and the always excellent Michael Fassbender. (I think it was his inclusion that persuaded me to go). The script was pretty good and the back stories of Professor Charles Xavier and Eric Lehnsherr (Magneto) worked well. The action scenes in the early part of the movie were not too long, it was just a shame that the drawn out ending let down what was otherwise an enjoyable treat.
Friday, 10 June 2011
Michael and Sara's Wedding Celebration
First of all, it was not the official wedding, that happened a while back. But this was the celebration of their marriage. It took the form of a short ceremony followed by the reception. The ceremony was performed beautifully, Sara and Michael repeated their vows in front of all their family and friends before taking to the floor for the first dance.
The event took place at reBar, which is in the Dumbo district of Brooklyn (Down Under The Manhattan Bridge Overpass). It was only fifteen minutes walk from our hotel, so despite Alison's high heels, we set off in the warm early evening sun. Approaching our destination, we wondered if we were in the right place, the locality is somewhat effected by the deafening noise of the traffic going over the bridge. But the venue is great, no wonder Michael and Sara chose it. It had been closed to the public and accommodated the eighty or so guests easily. http://rebarnyc.com
It was great to meet Sara's family, these are her two aunts, grandmother and mother. They were all so friendly.
There was lots of dancing, Alison and I took to the floor when we heard "Arthur's Theme" (If you get caught between the moon and New York City etc). But I had to leave her with Michael for Meat Loaf.
It was a jolly good party in a great venue. We all took home little boxes of chocolate, but Michael, where was the cake?
It was great to meet Sara's family, these are her two aunts, grandmother and mother. They were all so friendly.
And this is father Rich with my family.
The food was great. Not only the buffet, but all the nibbles brought round by the waiters. But the real memorable part was the desert, little pots of something scrumptious, particularly the vanilla one. There was also a free bar. Looking back, I now realise that the glasses of wine were huge.
Wednesday, 8 June 2011
Boston, Cape Cod and New York
When Michael and Sara invited us to their wedding in New York, we decided to make it a holiday on the east coast. The plan was to fly to Boston, spend two nights there, then hire a car and drive down to Cape Cod with five nights in Hyannis. We would then drive back to Boston and catch a train to New York for our final three nights. We booked our hotels and splashed out on Virgin Premium Economy flights. Alison had actually worked over the Easter holiday and this paid for the upgrade.
So on Friday 20th May, a car picked us up from home and took us to Heathrow for an afternoon flight to Boston. We arrived there early evening and we were at our hotel in no time, no wait at immigration and a short taxi ride. Fifty minutes from leaving the plane to checking in at the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel. All in time for a stroll around the vicinity, and we were immediately impressed by what is a beautiful city.
The next day we arranged to meet Michael and Sara who were co-incidentally in town for the meeting of Michael's Boston Red Sox and Sara's Chicago Cubs, the first time these baseball teams had played each other since 1918! We headed for the harbour and it wasn't long before we met them as we were walking back down Long Wharf.
The day was sunny but chilly as we looked for somewhere to have a drink and a chat. We found a cafe and sat outside in the sun. I had a Sam Adams lager which was new to me and very acceptable. Alison and Sara visited a Christmas shop while Michael and I finished our drinks. This was all around Quincy Market where the next photo was taken.
In the afternoon we strolled back along Long Wharf before deciding to walk back to our hotel via State Street and Beacon Hill and Boston Common where we took in Massachusetts State House. We said goodbye to Michael and Sara and had a rest back at the hotel. For dinner, we thought that the area around nearby Quincy Market seemed a likely place and we there we found a terrific Mexican restaurant - Zuma Tex Mex Grill. Bustly and relaxed, just what we were looking for.
On the Sunday morning we had arranged for a hire car to be delivered to the hotel. This turned out to be an expensive luxury ($713.47), but it did save a lot of time and hassle. We were driving down to Cape Cod and using it to tour the area before bringing it back on the following Friday. We wanted to stop at Plymouth on our way down, and we found the centre quite easily, parking on the seafront near the replica of the Mayflower.
Not only was it quite cloudy that day, but it was bitterly cold on the coast. We did enjoy walking around the town, but we definitely needed a hot drink. We will be eternally grateful to find the Water Street Cafe where we had a good lunch and thawed out. There were a couple of other places where might have stopped, but Sandwich did not seem to have a centre, so we carried on to Hyannis to find our hotel where we were staying for five nights. We were so pleased we had chosen the Anchor Inn. Despite being a two storey motel, it is superbly appointed, and our room was perfect. We overlooked the harbour from our balcony.
We had time for a walk around before making our way to Spankys Clam Shack next to the harbour for dinner. Another busy, noisy and unpretentious restaurant, it reminded us of Crabby Bills in St Petes Beach. Really good seafood, we had swordfish and shrimp dishes.
The breakfasts at the hotel were excellent. They were buffet style with a great selection. On Monday morning, Alison had an early run, the weather was slightly less cold, but still chill and cloudy. We walked down Main Street in Hyannis where there is plenty to see, shops, churches, schools, banks etc. We were actually looking for a beanie hat for me as if we went out on a boat, I would need something. Nothing in Hyannis, so we drove to Cape Cod Mall on the highway outside the town. Nothing there, but at least we were warm inside, and we had the best panini ever at the Casual Gourmet Express at the food court.
It was mid afternoon, and we bravely returned to Hyannis to catch the 4.15pm Harbor Cruise. It is just a one hour trip around the bay and takes in views of Hyannisport and the Kennedy homes. The Prudence is a 1911 coastal steamer and we did not have a lot of company. It didn't seem too cold after all, but we did take advantage of the cabin on the way back.
We had seen an Olive Garden restaurant on the highway, and had always liked the food when we eat there during our holidays in Orlando. So we had dinner there, lots of lovely pasta.
We started out tour of the cape in earnest on Tuesday, driving down to Falmouth. A very pretty coastal town with a pretty main street. We found it was a long walk to the harbour, lots of boats but the dockside was mostly inaccessible. The walk back through some smart holiday homes was interesting. A welcome coffee stop before driving to Woods Hole. There is no parking at this harbour for the ferry to Martha's Vineyard, and as it was pretty misty we only stooped for 15 minutes.
We had a nice drive to Chatham. It was getting a little brighter as we parked up and had a stroll around the town. We found we could drive to the seafront and park overlooking a beach and sand dunes. What we had not expected was to have pointed out a colony of perhaps 300 or so seals resting on the sandbank in the near distance. This is actually a 12 mile long permanent sandbank called Nauset Beach which is just offshore on the east coast of the cape. Fortunately Alison had brought the binoculars and we could see them moving around.
We had time for a walk on the beach before driving a short distance and finding a wonderful little harbour called Chatham Fish Pier. Fairly deserted in the late afternoon, but the sun was appearing at last and it was quite something. Fishing and coastguard boats to inspect, a walk along the beach to a wooden pier, Chatham was a real highlight of the holiday.
Back to Hyannis and dinner at The Black Cat where I had superbly fresh fried fish and chips. This is a great place to eat. The day had been a lot less cold, and getting brighter all the time.
We had planned Wednesday for our trip to the very end of the cape and Provincetown. In the morning we were greeted with lovely sunshine and blue skies. The drive down was pleasant enough and we parked for free at the museum, only a very short walk from the centre. Provincetown is a quaint, old harbour town, great to walk around in the sun.
We found a cafe on the main square and sat outside. As soon as we arrived we booked for the 3 hour plus whale watching cruise and this was due to leave at 12.30. The cafe warmed up a panini and wrapped it in foil for our lunch on the boat. Whale watching was something Alison had been looking forward to ever since we thought about going to Cape Cod, and it was on the advice of the hotel that we picked Provincetown as it was nearer to Stellwagen Bank where the whales hang out. It was a large boat that took us out, and being such a beautiful day, it was fairly crowded, but OK.
We must have been going over an hour when we saw our first whales, two Finbacks which are apparently the second largest of all animals on earth. These two were pretty big. We got quite close and for me, the best bit was when they arched their backs as they dived deep and disappeared for a while. The boat kept still as we waited for them to reappear, which luckily they did. After a while the boat started off again, and although time was getting on, we did eventually find a pair of Humpback Whales. Alison had taken over the camera and took lots of photos. Her favourite part was when the whales were blowing and caught this picture.
We were passed the allotted time and the boat headed back and we arrived at the harbour at 4pm. A wonderful experience. Just time to look around the shops, but I missed going up the tower of the monument as it was just closing. We drove back to Hyannis after a great day, and went back to the Olive Garden for dinner.
Thursday started bright and warm. Having found out how to park and ride for the ferry to Martha's Vineyard, we drove to Falmouth and picked up the coach to take us to Woods Hole. Here we bought our tickets and had time for a stroll around the small town. The ferry to the Vineyard was 45 minutes and we relaxed on deck. We were very impressed with Oak Bluffs, a very pretty main street and harbour. We bought coffee and cake to go from the Gourmet Cafe and Bakery and sat on a bench in a small square.
Walking further up the main street we looked through a gap and saw what we knew were some of the gingerbread cottages we had heard about. It was extraordinary, there was nobody about and here we were walking around this whole area of brightly painted timber cottages. There were so many to see and we took lots of photographs.
We found they went all down to the sea front and then wound back towards the centre. We came across the Tabernacle of Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. One of the cottages had turned into a museum and gift shop. It was deserted and the lady behind the counter was a mine of information, having spent the summers of her childhood in one of the homes. She explained how Methodists started to gather at Oak Bluffs over the summer and in 1835 set up tents on Trinity Park. Over time families turned these into more permanent structures as summer homes and a whole community was born. There are still over 300 cottages standing today. Quite amazing.
We finished up at the harbour where we (yes, it was me) decided to walk to Vineyard Haven, where we could catch a ferry back, only a couple of miles on the map. Our (my) one mistake of the holiday. it was a heavy tramp along roads and took an hour. We should definitely have caught the bus. The ferry left at 5pm, and there was not much to see at Vineyard Haven, so we had a rest on the boat. However, it was overall a splendid day, bright, occasional sun and warm. Back to The Black Cat for a terrific dinner.
On Friday morning we had time for a little shopping on Hyannis Main Street ( a t-shirt for me and cap for Alison from Wings) posted some cards at the Post Office, and left at 9.40 to drive back to Boston. Somehow we missed the turn for the airport, but found our way back onto the highway and then the airport complex, found a petrol station, filled the car with petrol (avoiding the $80 surcharge by the hire company). Had to wait in a queue to complete the paperwork at Dollar before they gave us a lift to the airport terminal. Here we caught the Silverline bus transfer (it has it's own dedicated tunnel to South Station) to catch the Amtrak train to New York. It left on time at 1.40pm, but what should have been 4 hour 20 minute journey became nearly six hours due to persistent engine breakdowns along the way. However, we did get to see many coastal towns along the way: Providence, New Haven, Bridgeport and New London. There were just so many boats. All the harbours were teeming with them. We arrived at Penn Station in New York at 7.15pm and took a taxi to the hotel in Brooklyn. Alison was amazed at how fast taxis drive in the city, I think we reached 75mph down Broadway. We had time to check in and unpack at the Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge before going out to search for a late dinner. We found the Mexacali down Court Street. It had been good weather for our journey and the evening was warm in New York.
Saturday started off sunny, and we found a Starbucks nearby for breakfast. We took the subway to Times Square, where we joined the throngs wandering around.
The most amazing thing happened up there. We actually met my daughter, her husband and daughter. Quite incredible, totally unplanned as we had not expected to have gone to the top. We had a great time chatting and taking photos. They were on their way out, but we stayed another half hour before meeting them for lunch at the bottom.
We said goodbye after lunch and walked back down 5th Avenue and 42nd Street. It was here we passed an ASICS shop (all running kit) and I encouraged Alison to have a look round. We found an ASICS NY running top for her, how cool is that?
We took the subway back to the hotel, it had been a very warm and sunny day, about 28C. Just time to freshen up and change before meeting Michael and Sara and her parents. We all took the subway to Michael and Sara's apartment in Brooklyn for a tour and quick drink before going out to dinner at a quaint restaurant nearby. The food was fabulous, wonderful Red Snapper. I had never had Octopus before and I have to say that it was very nice. Michael and Sara were going on to meet friends at the bar in Manhattan where they met, and we were also invited. Another subway ride, and it was good to meet some of those over for the wedding. We didn't stay that long, getting back to the Marriot about 11.30.
Sunday was sunny again and even warmer. After breakfast we walked through Brooklyn Heights to the Esplanade with great views over the river to Manhattan's financial district, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty in the distance.
We walked to Clark Street and took the short subway ride to Wall Street. There were lots of tourists around, but the place looked great in the sunshine.
We strolled down Broadway towards City Hall and the Woolworth Building and had a rest in the park. Here we took the subway to Union Square where we had lunch at yet another Starbucks. We then had to go on a search to find Paragon Sporting Goods. When Alison saw the women's running section she was in heaven. Rails after rail of running kit. Three tops, a hat and a pair of running shoes for her and a shirt for me.
The square itself was very busy, a Chinese Market and a rapper, but we didn't stay long. It was a hot day, about 32C. We had time for a rest before getting changed for the wedding. That will be another posting.
We had most of Sunday to ourselves as our return flight was not until the evening. We checked out and left our baggage at the hotel. We had a superb room, and it was so quiet. We slept really well. Back on the subway from Borough Hall. The advice on the Internet about the Metrocard did not explain how easy they were to top up, and we had hardly anything left after the last journey. We arrived in Central Park to hot sunshine. We had all morning to stroll around, keeping mainly in the shade.
We actually ended up at the reservoir, so I guess we must have seen nearly all of the southern half of the park. Alison wanted to do some shopping, and the hotel had suggested the mall at Atlantic Terminal. It was fairly close to the hotel where we had to pick up our luggage, so that was our final destination. We found an Applebees for a late lunch and a Bath and Bodyworks for some things to take home. But they nearly made one of the suitcases over the weight limit, 22 out of 23kg.
We left the hotel by car at 4.30pm and avoided the lengthy queus at the Virgin check-in as we were straight through on our Premium Economy ticket. A six hour flight home made for an earlier than expected arrival at Heathrow. I watched a movie on the plane. "The American" had reasonable reviews, but I was not dissapointed to have missed it at the cinema. The same can be said for "Animal Kingdom" on the way out.
There are so may memories of what was an amazing adventure over the eleven days in America. Everything was perfect. OK, the weather started off cold on Cape Cod, but we didn't have any rain during the day, and after a couple of days on the cape, we saw a lot of sun. The three hotels were excellent. Boston's was a little noisy, but what a superb position. Our room overlooked Old City Hall and King's Chapel. The Anchor Inn in Hyannis was special. Right next to the quiet part of the harbour. No tea making facilities in the rooms, but in the nearby lounge a machine made tea or coffee on demand any time of day or night. We could make a decaff coffee when we got back from dinner. The Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge was very smart, a high room was very quiet with nobody next door.
Alison loved Boston, and I have to say it was a very nice city. We would definitely go back, if only to buy up Mike's Pastry. Cape Cod was great, not at all busy just before the tourist season started in earnest. And we saw everything we had planned, except possibly some beaches on the east coast. There is nowhere like New York. Alison and Zoe were not particularly looking forward to visiting the city, but they were knocked out as usual. The subway was great, and we used it so much. I enjoyed working out the routes and even found the right C line on the last day back to Fulton Street for Atlantic Terminal.
But we were there for a wedding and that comes next.
So on Friday 20th May, a car picked us up from home and took us to Heathrow for an afternoon flight to Boston. We arrived there early evening and we were at our hotel in no time, no wait at immigration and a short taxi ride. Fifty minutes from leaving the plane to checking in at the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel. All in time for a stroll around the vicinity, and we were immediately impressed by what is a beautiful city.
The day was sunny but chilly as we looked for somewhere to have a drink and a chat. We found a cafe and sat outside in the sun. I had a Sam Adams lager which was new to me and very acceptable. Alison and Sara visited a Christmas shop while Michael and I finished our drinks. This was all around Quincy Market where the next photo was taken.
We had originally planned on going in Boston's famous Aquarium, but the day was too nice go inside, so we plumped to explore some of the city. On Michael's advice, we headed for North End which is the Italian district. The route took us up Hanover Street, Salem Street and Hall Street. On the first of these stands Mike's Pastry, the biggest selection of cakes and deserts that Alison and I had ever seen. There were some lovely buildings in this neighbourhood and we took our time strolling around the streets. Paul Revere Mall was a highlight. We ended up at Copps Hill Terrace with views over to Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution.
We headed back along Commercial Street and around the many wharfs on Harbor Walk, from Battery Wharf to Commercial Wharf. By this time it was time for a late lunch and we were very grateful to get a table in the busy Tia's Cafe next to Christopher Columbus Park. Michael had only a t-shirt, so he had to borrow my jacket as it was decidedly cold sitting in the shade. But the lunch was very nice.
On the Sunday morning we had arranged for a hire car to be delivered to the hotel. This turned out to be an expensive luxury ($713.47), but it did save a lot of time and hassle. We were driving down to Cape Cod and using it to tour the area before bringing it back on the following Friday. We wanted to stop at Plymouth on our way down, and we found the centre quite easily, parking on the seafront near the replica of the Mayflower.
The breakfasts at the hotel were excellent. They were buffet style with a great selection. On Monday morning, Alison had an early run, the weather was slightly less cold, but still chill and cloudy. We walked down Main Street in Hyannis where there is plenty to see, shops, churches, schools, banks etc. We were actually looking for a beanie hat for me as if we went out on a boat, I would need something. Nothing in Hyannis, so we drove to Cape Cod Mall on the highway outside the town. Nothing there, but at least we were warm inside, and we had the best panini ever at the Casual Gourmet Express at the food court.
It was mid afternoon, and we bravely returned to Hyannis to catch the 4.15pm Harbor Cruise. It is just a one hour trip around the bay and takes in views of Hyannisport and the Kennedy homes. The Prudence is a 1911 coastal steamer and we did not have a lot of company. It didn't seem too cold after all, but we did take advantage of the cabin on the way back.
We started out tour of the cape in earnest on Tuesday, driving down to Falmouth. A very pretty coastal town with a pretty main street. We found it was a long walk to the harbour, lots of boats but the dockside was mostly inaccessible. The walk back through some smart holiday homes was interesting. A welcome coffee stop before driving to Woods Hole. There is no parking at this harbour for the ferry to Martha's Vineyard, and as it was pretty misty we only stooped for 15 minutes.
We had a nice drive to Chatham. It was getting a little brighter as we parked up and had a stroll around the town. We found we could drive to the seafront and park overlooking a beach and sand dunes. What we had not expected was to have pointed out a colony of perhaps 300 or so seals resting on the sandbank in the near distance. This is actually a 12 mile long permanent sandbank called Nauset Beach which is just offshore on the east coast of the cape. Fortunately Alison had brought the binoculars and we could see them moving around.
We had planned Wednesday for our trip to the very end of the cape and Provincetown. In the morning we were greeted with lovely sunshine and blue skies. The drive down was pleasant enough and we parked for free at the museum, only a very short walk from the centre. Provincetown is a quaint, old harbour town, great to walk around in the sun.
We must have been going over an hour when we saw our first whales, two Finbacks which are apparently the second largest of all animals on earth. These two were pretty big. We got quite close and for me, the best bit was when they arched their backs as they dived deep and disappeared for a while. The boat kept still as we waited for them to reappear, which luckily they did. After a while the boat started off again, and although time was getting on, we did eventually find a pair of Humpback Whales. Alison had taken over the camera and took lots of photos. Her favourite part was when the whales were blowing and caught this picture.
Thursday started bright and warm. Having found out how to park and ride for the ferry to Martha's Vineyard, we drove to Falmouth and picked up the coach to take us to Woods Hole. Here we bought our tickets and had time for a stroll around the small town. The ferry to the Vineyard was 45 minutes and we relaxed on deck. We were very impressed with Oak Bluffs, a very pretty main street and harbour. We bought coffee and cake to go from the Gourmet Cafe and Bakery and sat on a bench in a small square.
We finished up at the harbour where we (yes, it was me) decided to walk to Vineyard Haven, where we could catch a ferry back, only a couple of miles on the map. Our (my) one mistake of the holiday. it was a heavy tramp along roads and took an hour. We should definitely have caught the bus. The ferry left at 5pm, and there was not much to see at Vineyard Haven, so we had a rest on the boat. However, it was overall a splendid day, bright, occasional sun and warm. Back to The Black Cat for a terrific dinner.
On Friday morning we had time for a little shopping on Hyannis Main Street ( a t-shirt for me and cap for Alison from Wings) posted some cards at the Post Office, and left at 9.40 to drive back to Boston. Somehow we missed the turn for the airport, but found our way back onto the highway and then the airport complex, found a petrol station, filled the car with petrol (avoiding the $80 surcharge by the hire company). Had to wait in a queue to complete the paperwork at Dollar before they gave us a lift to the airport terminal. Here we caught the Silverline bus transfer (it has it's own dedicated tunnel to South Station) to catch the Amtrak train to New York. It left on time at 1.40pm, but what should have been 4 hour 20 minute journey became nearly six hours due to persistent engine breakdowns along the way. However, we did get to see many coastal towns along the way: Providence, New Haven, Bridgeport and New London. There were just so many boats. All the harbours were teeming with them. We arrived at Penn Station in New York at 7.15pm and took a taxi to the hotel in Brooklyn. Alison was amazed at how fast taxis drive in the city, I think we reached 75mph down Broadway. We had time to check in and unpack at the Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge before going out to search for a late dinner. We found the Mexacali down Court Street. It had been good weather for our journey and the evening was warm in New York.
Saturday started off sunny, and we found a Starbucks nearby for breakfast. We took the subway to Times Square, where we joined the throngs wandering around.
We then headed up 6th Avenue and ended up at the Rockefeller Center. Alison had maintained that
she didn't want to go to the top of a high building, but once there, she changed her mind, and we bought our tickets for Top of the Rock. Going up in the fast lift is always a great experience, 67 floors in a flash, and a light show in the lift shaft thrown in. We both loved the views from the top and spent some time taking in the sights.
We said goodbye after lunch and walked back down 5th Avenue and 42nd Street. It was here we passed an ASICS shop (all running kit) and I encouraged Alison to have a look round. We found an ASICS NY running top for her, how cool is that?
We took the subway back to the hotel, it had been a very warm and sunny day, about 28C. Just time to freshen up and change before meeting Michael and Sara and her parents. We all took the subway to Michael and Sara's apartment in Brooklyn for a tour and quick drink before going out to dinner at a quaint restaurant nearby. The food was fabulous, wonderful Red Snapper. I had never had Octopus before and I have to say that it was very nice. Michael and Sara were going on to meet friends at the bar in Manhattan where they met, and we were also invited. Another subway ride, and it was good to meet some of those over for the wedding. We didn't stay that long, getting back to the Marriot about 11.30.
Sunday was sunny again and even warmer. After breakfast we walked through Brooklyn Heights to the Esplanade with great views over the river to Manhattan's financial district, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty in the distance.
The square itself was very busy, a Chinese Market and a rapper, but we didn't stay long. It was a hot day, about 32C. We had time for a rest before getting changed for the wedding. That will be another posting.
We had most of Sunday to ourselves as our return flight was not until the evening. We checked out and left our baggage at the hotel. We had a superb room, and it was so quiet. We slept really well. Back on the subway from Borough Hall. The advice on the Internet about the Metrocard did not explain how easy they were to top up, and we had hardly anything left after the last journey. We arrived in Central Park to hot sunshine. We had all morning to stroll around, keeping mainly in the shade.
We left the hotel by car at 4.30pm and avoided the lengthy queus at the Virgin check-in as we were straight through on our Premium Economy ticket. A six hour flight home made for an earlier than expected arrival at Heathrow. I watched a movie on the plane. "The American" had reasonable reviews, but I was not dissapointed to have missed it at the cinema. The same can be said for "Animal Kingdom" on the way out.
There are so may memories of what was an amazing adventure over the eleven days in America. Everything was perfect. OK, the weather started off cold on Cape Cod, but we didn't have any rain during the day, and after a couple of days on the cape, we saw a lot of sun. The three hotels were excellent. Boston's was a little noisy, but what a superb position. Our room overlooked Old City Hall and King's Chapel. The Anchor Inn in Hyannis was special. Right next to the quiet part of the harbour. No tea making facilities in the rooms, but in the nearby lounge a machine made tea or coffee on demand any time of day or night. We could make a decaff coffee when we got back from dinner. The Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge was very smart, a high room was very quiet with nobody next door.
Alison loved Boston, and I have to say it was a very nice city. We would definitely go back, if only to buy up Mike's Pastry. Cape Cod was great, not at all busy just before the tourist season started in earnest. And we saw everything we had planned, except possibly some beaches on the east coast. There is nowhere like New York. Alison and Zoe were not particularly looking forward to visiting the city, but they were knocked out as usual. The subway was great, and we used it so much. I enjoyed working out the routes and even found the right C line on the last day back to Fulton Street for Atlantic Terminal.
But we were there for a wedding and that comes next.
Sunday, 5 June 2011
Trespass, Gentlemen and Players and After You'd Gone
I love the writing of Rose Tremain that it sometimes doesn't matter that the story is a little lightweight as it is here. The setting of rural southern France is quite evocative, beautifully described and well compared with affluent London. The five main characters are middle aged so, although that I could relate to, the story of their colliding lives seemed a little trite. Anthony Verey leaves London to stay with his sister and her lady friend. But he is a pretty pathetic character given that he is a wealthy antiques dealer. And the two women are not much better. More interesting are another brother and sister, estranged in houses on the same plot of land. Their story is fascinating. Not a lot happens, but what does is told with great style and emotion. Trespass is an enjoyable read.
Gentlemen and Players is a highly original novel by Joanne Harris. The setting of an old boy's grammar school and the eruption of a long harboured grudge appealed to me. What we have is a black comedy, told in alternate chapters by two highly engaging characters. Roy Straitley is nearing retirement, but his wit and experience are legendary. We are happy in his warm and funny company. The new teacher is Chris Keane, but he tells his story with growing malice. The other teachers and pupils are well described, but I could have done with a who's-who list beside me. As the story unfolds with twists and turns of the plot (both current and in the past), the story darkens to it's gripping climax. And I couldn't wait to see what happens at the end.
I was going to buy Maggie O'Farrell's well received latest book "The Hand That First Held Mine", but browsing in Waterstone's I came across her first novel "after you'd gone", and I thought it might be a light read for the holiday. In the end it turns out to be an absorbing modern day tale of families and relationships that are far from comfortable. Alice Raikes is in a coma, having stepped out in front of a car following a journey to see her sisters in Edinburgh that sees her back on the train to London almost immediately after meeting them. The answers to this big mystery unfold with gripping panache and terrific writing. How can a debut novel be so good?
Gentlemen and Players is a highly original novel by Joanne Harris. The setting of an old boy's grammar school and the eruption of a long harboured grudge appealed to me. What we have is a black comedy, told in alternate chapters by two highly engaging characters. Roy Straitley is nearing retirement, but his wit and experience are legendary. We are happy in his warm and funny company. The new teacher is Chris Keane, but he tells his story with growing malice. The other teachers and pupils are well described, but I could have done with a who's-who list beside me. As the story unfolds with twists and turns of the plot (both current and in the past), the story darkens to it's gripping climax. And I couldn't wait to see what happens at the end.
I was going to buy Maggie O'Farrell's well received latest book "The Hand That First Held Mine", but browsing in Waterstone's I came across her first novel "after you'd gone", and I thought it might be a light read for the holiday. In the end it turns out to be an absorbing modern day tale of families and relationships that are far from comfortable. Alice Raikes is in a coma, having stepped out in front of a car following a journey to see her sisters in Edinburgh that sees her back on the train to London almost immediately after meeting them. The answers to this big mystery unfold with gripping panache and terrific writing. How can a debut novel be so good?
Hanna, Attack the Block and Never Let Me Go
Mix a young female Jason Bourne with a fairytale thriller, put on a soundtrack by the Chemical Brothers, and you have Hanna, an original take on the action assassin genre. But it is all a bit of a mess. Joe Wright is a clever director, and many of the scenes work well. But taken together they defie logic. It would have helped to have the basis of the plot explained aroung halfway instead of waiting until the silly ending. Saoirse Ronan is excellent as Hanna, as are Olivia Williams and Jason Flemyng as the hippie parents who take her under their wing. But what is Tom Hollander doing as one of the villains. He must have been instructed to camp it up.
After watching the trailers for Attack the Block, I couldn't wait to see the movie. The concept of aliens landing on a South London housing estate was just too good to be true. The leader of a teenage gang of hoodies unwittingly kills a young alien. Big mistake. It's not long before the hideous creature's friends are up for revenge. This makes for a brilliant comedy horror from writer-director Joe Cornish. He has a good ear for the slang of our "heroes", and this is well delivered by the young cast. OK, the limitations of the budget makes for a low key spectacle, but the film is none the worse for that. Jodie Whittaker and Nick Frost bring a clever adult counterpoint to the exuberance of the boys. There are a few distinctly irresponsible actions from the gang, but in the end this is a fantasy and they are included for a reason. In my view, a movie that is even better than Shaun of the Dead, and that is saying something. One last memory, the exterior photography of the the lit tower block seeming like a gigantic spacecraft was fabulous.
I had to see Never Let Me Go. One of my favourite books by Kazuo Ishiguro and a story that I knew would be so difficult to replicate on screen. And I have to say that I felt director Mark Romanek failed to find the essence of the novel, but that was probably to be expected. It is quite a harrowing story, and this certainly comes out in the movie. But there is a feeling of happiness and friendship in the book that is missing here. So all we are left with at the end is the sadness of the character's predicament, and the horror of what put them there. I also felt the times at Hailsham and The Cottages were rushed to spend longer with the final section. The acting is very good, Carey Mulligan excellent as our narrator (why do I love narrators in books but can't stand the concept on film), and she is well supported by Keira Knightley and Andrew Garfield.
After watching the trailers for Attack the Block, I couldn't wait to see the movie. The concept of aliens landing on a South London housing estate was just too good to be true. The leader of a teenage gang of hoodies unwittingly kills a young alien. Big mistake. It's not long before the hideous creature's friends are up for revenge. This makes for a brilliant comedy horror from writer-director Joe Cornish. He has a good ear for the slang of our "heroes", and this is well delivered by the young cast. OK, the limitations of the budget makes for a low key spectacle, but the film is none the worse for that. Jodie Whittaker and Nick Frost bring a clever adult counterpoint to the exuberance of the boys. There are a few distinctly irresponsible actions from the gang, but in the end this is a fantasy and they are included for a reason. In my view, a movie that is even better than Shaun of the Dead, and that is saying something. One last memory, the exterior photography of the the lit tower block seeming like a gigantic spacecraft was fabulous.
I had to see Never Let Me Go. One of my favourite books by Kazuo Ishiguro and a story that I knew would be so difficult to replicate on screen. And I have to say that I felt director Mark Romanek failed to find the essence of the novel, but that was probably to be expected. It is quite a harrowing story, and this certainly comes out in the movie. But there is a feeling of happiness and friendship in the book that is missing here. So all we are left with at the end is the sadness of the character's predicament, and the horror of what put them there. I also felt the times at Hailsham and The Cottages were rushed to spend longer with the final section. The acting is very good, Carey Mulligan excellent as our narrator (why do I love narrators in books but can't stand the concept on film), and she is well supported by Keira Knightley and Andrew Garfield.
Olympic Tickets
When I checked my bank statement online, I knew straightaway that we had been successful for just one of the Olympic events that we had applied for. It was for two tickets to the very first session of Athletics on Saturday morning 4th August 2012 at the Olympic Stadium. Hopefully, Jessica Ennis will be competing in the first two disciplines of the Heptathlon.
But what is even better is that we will be there when the athletics starts and we have the tickets we wanted, the middle of the five prices, instead of being in the cheapest seats for an evening session. I didnt get anything for the cycling or gymnastics and Alison was unsuccessful in all her applications. But next year we are on our way to the Olympic Park and the stadium. That is as good as we would have wished for.
But what is even better is that we will be there when the athletics starts and we have the tickets we wanted, the middle of the five prices, instead of being in the cheapest seats for an evening session. I didnt get anything for the cycling or gymnastics and Alison was unsuccessful in all her applications. But next year we are on our way to the Olympic Park and the stadium. That is as good as we would have wished for.
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