The Open Neck Shirt

The Top Twenty Albums of 2011

2011-12-11T11:13:00.002Z

Here's my top twenty albums of 2011. The top album of the year is The Wild Swans - 'The Coldest Winter In A Hundred Years', but the other nineteen are pretty good too.

Look forward to receiving your lists and recommendations.

1. The Wild Swans - The Coldest Winter In A Hundred Years

2. Wild Beasts - Smother

3. John Foxx & the Maths - Interplay

4. Bon Iver - Bon Iver

5. The Horrors - Skying

6. Wire - Red Barked Tree

7. Laura Marling - A Creature I Don't Know

8. The Decemberists - The King Is Dead

9. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues

10. Kate Bush - 50 Words For Snow

11. Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes

12. The Unthanks - Last

13. Elbow - Build A Rocket Boys

14. TV on the Radio - Nine Types Of Light

15. Metronomy - The English Riviera

16. Battles - Gloss Drop

17. Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

18. Kurt Vile - Smoke Ring For My Halo

19. P J Harvey - Let England Shake

20. Florence + The Machine - Ceremonials

All the albums are available to preview or purchase from the Amazon widget on the right hand panel of this site.

The Best Album of 2011

2011-12-07T14:48:00.007Z

The Wild Swans tribute to drummer Pete de Freitas who died in a motorbike accident 22 years ago.

My top album of 2011 is The Wild Swans - 'The Coldest Winter In A Hundred Years'.
I only discovered this brilliant album in October but I've not stopped playing it ever since. I've been a fan of the Wild Swans since the 1980's (Revolutionary Spirit being a personal favourite) but I had thought their moment had passed until this latest release.

Original member and lead singer Paul Simpson has gone through numerous line-ups which have included many famous Liverpudlians such as Pete de Freitas (Echo and the Bunnymen), Ian Broudie (Lightning Seeds), Chris Sharrock and Ian McNabb (Icicle Works).

However, the latest incarnation which includes Ricky Rene Maymi (Brian Jonestown Massacre), Les Pattinson (Echo and the Bunnymen), Mike Mooney (Julian Cope/Spiritualized), and Steve Beswick (Slipstream) have come up with a masterpiece.

This is an epic album with soaring tunes and evocative lyrics, it is music to be savoured.
It is the album The Wild Swans always threatened to make in the 80's and 90's but have only now got around to making.

'The Coldest Winter in A Hundred Years' has had limited publicity and has been criminally neglected by the critics, but it is deserving of your attention. Buy the CD or download a copy now.

http://www.thewildswans.co.uk/

Another year another open neck shirt

2011-11-08T17:37:00.001Z

Some of the usual suspects at the Mark Addy on Friday 8th July 2011

The winter Open Neck Shirt will be convening at Mr Thomas's Chop House at 1pm on Friday 11th November.

A little history

Mr Thomas’s Chop House is described by The New York Times as “probably Manchester’s most venerable pub”.

The site on Cross Street was originally occupied by a Georgian Town House, hence its long, slim shape. Mr Thomas Studd, who also gave his name to the premises, first opened it as a public house and restaurant in 1870.

Like the coffee house, the alehouse, the boarding house and others, the chophouse is a British institution dating back to the origins of modern commercial trading in the sixteenth century.

Chop houses

The Chop houses were originally places where businessmen dined and conducted their affairs over hearty plates of traditionally cooked meats, frequently grilled and washed down with fine wines or well-kept local beers.

The architect Robert Walker was commissioned to rebuild and extend the original premises and this version of Mr Thomas’s was completed in 1901.

It is a cast iron frame building - one of the first in Manchester. The exterior walls are a superb mixture of decorative terracotta blocks and Accrington brick. The terracotta was hand cast and delivered to the site hollow. It was then filled with concrete for extra strength and fabricated over the frame on site. The building was given Grade II listed status by English heritage for its architectural merit and historical importance in the city.

The interior remains almost completely original. The arches and Victorian tiling are Mr Thomas’s principal distinguishing features. These have been recently cleaned and restored to reveal the beauty and skill of the original craftsmanship. The intense green lustre of the darker arch tiles is something rarely seen in more modern work.

Since Thomas Studd there have been 29 further innkeepers. Their names are listed in the back room as an historical record and as a way of remembering their contribution to the life of the city centre. Tom’s has certainly had its ups and downs over the last century, but it remains a local institution and one of the jewels in Manchester’s crown.

As well as providing some hearty food Mr Thomas's have a range of real ales available usually including Black Sheep, Holt's and Robinsons.

I'm looking forward to revisiting Mr Thomas's, meeting old friends and sampling the food and drink on offer.

Cheers.

The Man/machine returns - John Foxx and the Maths on tour

2011-10-11T10:53:00.000Z

Electronic music pioneer John Foxx has returned to form with a superb new album 'Interplay'.
Now joined by synthesizer connoisseur Benge, Hannah Peel and Serafina Steer, plus other lumineries of the current electronic scene, Foxx has produced his best work since the days of early Ultravox.

John Foxx and the Maths are a modern collaboration made in heaven or should that be in a synthesizer workshop? Interplay is an electronic album to saviour and which befits our alienated times. There is no doubt that this latest album is on a par with the best music produced by seminal Kraftwerk.

The band will be touring the UK in October. Don't miss this opportunity to to see one of the great innovators of electronic music.

Tour dates

Thursday the 13th of October, 2011 – Leamington Spa Assembly Hall, Spencer Street, Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV31 3NF  Telephone : 01926 523 001, Web : http://www.leamingtonassembly.com/

Thursday the 20th of October, 2011 – Bristol Thekla, The Grove, East Mud Dock, Bristol BS1 4RB  Telephone : 0117 929 3301 (venue) / 0845 413 4444 (tickets), Web : http://www.theklabristol.co.uk/

Friday the 21st of October, 2011 – Manchester Academy 4, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PR  Telephone : 0161 275 2930, Web : http://www.manchesteracademy.net

Saturday the 22nd of October, 2011 – Liverpool Stanley Theatre, 160 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5TR  Telephone : 0151 794 6868, Web : http://www.lgos.org

Sunday the 23rd of October, 2011 – Glasgow Arches, 253 Argyle Street, Glasgow G2 8DL Telephone : 0141 565 1000, Web : http://www.thearches.co.uk/

Monday the 24th of October, 2011 – York Duchess, Stonebow House, York YO1 7NP  Telephone : 01904 641 413, Web : http://www.theduchessyork.co.uk

Tuesday the 25th of October, 2011 – London XOYO, 32-37 Cowper Street, London EC2A 4AP  Telephone : (off-site) 0207 729 5959, Web : http://www.xoyo.co.uk

Thursday the 27th of October, 2011 – London XOYO, 32-37 Cowper Street, London EC2A 4AP  Telephone : (off-site) 0207 729 5959, Web : http://www.xoyo.co.uk

Friday the 28th of October, 2011 – Holmfirth Picturedrome, Market Walk, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 7DA  Telephone : 01484 689 759, Web : http://www.picturedrome.net

Summer Open Neck Shirt 2011 at the Mark Addy

2011-07-04T21:26:00.004Z

The Mark Addy, Salford

This summer's Open Neck Shirt will be convening at the Mark Addy, Salford on Friday 8th July at 1pm.

Just across the border from sunny Manchester, the Mark Addy is now run by Head Chef Robert Owen Brown who has established a reputation for good quality food while also serving an excellent range of draught beers including some from local micro-breweries.

The Mark Addy was recently reviewed by Observer/Guardian critic Jay Rayner who gave the venue an excellent write-up. You can read the review here.

The Mark Addy originally opened in 1981 (yes we were there soon after) is named after a local hero who died in 1890. He was famous for rescuing 51 people from the then treacherous waters of the River Irwell and he is the only civilian to have received the Albert Medal (Victoria Cross) from Queen Victoria.

The site was originally a boat passengers waiting room for the new Bailey landing stage from where a regular packet boat service was in operation from 1807.

After completion of extensive renovation the Mark Addy re-opened on the 28th October 2009. The Spring of 2010 saw the addition of an extensive outdoor dining area, complete with a 10ft X 8ft steel barbecue and spit.

I'm looking forward to revisiting the Mark Addy, meeting old friends and sampling the food and drink on offer. I will report back with my findings in the near future.

Jaume Plensa at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

2011-06-05T19:39:00.004Z

Here's some of my photographs from my recent visit to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park to see the excellent exhibition by Jaume Plensa. The exhibition runs until 25th September 2011 and is well worth a visit.

The Room Revisited

2011-05-27T14:06:00.001Z

The Room are one of the most underrated groups of the early 80's, seen here performing Shirt of Fire on the Whistle Test in 1984. The Liverpool based group recorded just five albums, the best material can be heard on the 'In Evil Hour/Clear' compilation CD. I remember seeing them play in a small venue on Bold Street in Liverpool one New Year's Eve and was mesmerised by performance. If you like this track please check out the albums which I thoroughly recommend.

Wild Beasts - Devil's Crayon

2011-03-16T22:18:00.000Z

Came across this track on the Latitude Festival website recently and it's a corker!

Let's Hang On

2011-02-25T22:44:00.004Z

Phoenix Stand by Stuart Roy Clarke

My new blog 'Let's Hang On' is about the highs and lows of following Wigan Athletic FC. The team were promoted to the English Premier League in 2005 and despite many people's expectations they have survived at this level for six seasons. However, at the beginning of February 2011 Wigan sit second bottom of the league and they have not won in 2011. Can they survive in the so called 'best league in the world'? Over the coming months 'Let's Hang On' will follow their fight for survival in a league with mega rich owners, £50m footballers, hysterical fans, and a relentless media .

Joy Division live on Something Else

2011-02-09T13:40:00.000Z

Joy Division live on Something Else - not quite as I remember it, but still worth watching.

The King is Dead

2011-02-06T11:42:00.001Z

The Decemberists new album 'The King is Dead' is quite a departure from their previous epic 'The Hazards of Love.' The group have made quite a reputation for developing 'dare I say' concept album approach to music making. However, the new album returns the group to their early folk/americana roots. The influence of REM is never far way and Peter Buck joins the group on several songs.

The King is Dead is perhaps not as immediate as 'The Hazards of Love' or 'The Crane Wife' but it is a rewarding experience following further listens. The band will be touring the UK in March and from my previous experience the live shows should not be missed - see you at the Leeds Academy show on 11 March?

Our Friends in the North

2011-01-25T14:46:00.007Z

Our Friends in the North is probably the last great British TV series, there have been few series that have captured the social and political life of the north of England so successfully. Broadcast in 1996, the series covers the period 1964 to 1995 and follows the lives of the four central characters played by Nicky (Christopher Eccleston), Mary (Gina McKee), Geordie (Daniel Craig) and Tosker (Mark Strong).

The story centres around the North East, the failure of the Labour Party and the decline of family. The first episode sets the scene at the time of T. Dan Smith, the leader of Newcastle upon Tyne City Council and his plans to demolish terraced houses and replace them with high rise flats. It transpires that T Dan Smith took bribes from architect and Freemason John Poulson. Smith and Poulson were convicted and imprisoned in 1974, by which time the high rise flats that he and Poulson had conspired to build are now despised for their poor quality and ready to be pulled down.

The web of corruption extended to the House of Commons where Poulson enjoyed lucrative business links with Conservative Home Secretary Reginald Maudling. Although the public figures in the story are given different names it is clear who they represent. The plot is also interwoven with the investigation into Police corruption and a scheme to flout the sanctions imposed on Ian Smith's Rhodesia.

As viewers we are completely engaged with the friends Nicky, Mary, Geordie and Tosker throughout the ensuing years. Their lives amplify the changing political and social landscape. Their moral choices and values are shaped by the society around them. The idealism of youth and belief in change gives way to cynicism and disappointment. The direct link to our current political processes and institutions are all too evident. Self serving and corrupt politicians are never far away.

However, despite the failure of our political institutions at least the friendships formed between Nicky, Mary, Geordie and Tosker have been profound and lasting.

Top Twenty Albums of 2010

2010-11-27T19:55:00.003Z

This year it was particularly hard to limit my selection to just ten, so I have decided to extend my list to twenty favourites. I Am Kloot top the list with the wonderfully evocative Sky at Night. It's also worth noting that the top three groups are from Manchester or at least have their roots in Manchester, but then again Manchester is and always has been at the forefront of great music.

Top twenty albums of 2010

1. I am Kloot - Sky at Night

2. Cherry Ghost - Beneath this Burning Shoreline

3. Everything, Everything - Man Alive

4. Edwyn Collins - Losing Sleep

5. Villagers - Becoming A Jackal

6. Ed Harcourt - Lustre

7. Arcade Fire - The Suburbs

8. Paul Weller - Wake Up the Nation

9. James - The Night Before

10. Laura Marling - I Speak Because I Can

11. Midlake - The Courage of Others

12. Stornoway - Beachcomber's Windowsill

13. Gil Scott-Heron - I'm New Here

14. Badly Drawn Boy - It's What I'm Thinking Part 1 - Photographing Snowflakes

15. Cathal Coughlan -Rancho Tetrahedron

16. Sufjan Stevens - Age of Adz

17. Darkstar - North

18. Charlotte Gainsbourg - IRM

19. Gold Panda - Lucky Shiner

20. Caribou - Swim

I'd also like to recommend the Rough Trade Top 100 albums listing which is available to play through Spotify - just follow the link
http://theofficestereo.wordpress.com/2010/11/15/rough-trade-top-100-spotify-playlist/

Enjoy!

I'm a fifty year old man and I like it

2010-11-24T15:19:00.007Z

I'm a fifty year old man and I like it.

Another excellent turn out for the thirty second Open Neck Shirt, the only notable absentee was Phil who is now ensconced in Australia. Maybe you'll join us next year Phil? The day commenced at the slightly later than usual 1.30pm (we must be getting more restrained) at the Seven Oaks. We then progressed to the Circus Tavern - which is still one of the most unique and 'characterful' pubs in Manchester.

The Xmas Market was buzzing as usual and the City Arms served an excellent pint or two. Corbieres is still a great venue with a good jukebox but the bitter is not the best. The Briton's Protection is another good venue but once again the bitter was not up to standard. The next stop was the Peveril of the Peak and it did not disappoint, excellent Deuchers IPA bitter, good atmosphere, Table Football and Pool. As per usual the local 'professionals' bided their time and duly beat our best table football pair. Overall a very enjoyable and civilised event - see you all next year.

The Open Neck Shirt 2010

2010-10-29T22:19:00.000Z

The Table Football connoisseurs pub.

The latest instalment of the Open Neck Shirt will commence in the Seven Oaks on Friday 19 November at 1pm. All the usual suspects are invited and the usual venues will be frequented. As well as the Seven Oaks, I'm sure we will be visiting the Circus Tavern, Corbieres, and the Peveril of the Peak.

The Manchester Christmas Market is also a particular favourite, who could forego the delights of a warming Gluhwein and humungous German sausage!

Bratwurst time.

Looking forward to another spectacular event, but please enjoy in moderation.

Harry and Paul - Northern Relief

2010-10-20T13:17:00.004Z

The Harry and Paul Show can be a bit hit and miss, but we like this one.

Peace in Sheffield and No Redemption in Durham

2010-10-14T10:57:00.008Z

As part of the Off the Shelf Festival the Shepley Book Club boys went to hear David Peace speak. Here's a photo of David with the group. David read from Damned United and talked about his Yorkshire based books. There was also an opportunity to hear from Keith Pattison who has produced 'No Redemption' a challenging book of black and white photographs of the Miners' strike in the Durham coalfield. As we enter a new age of austerity the images offer a stark reminder of the deep divisions that still exist in our society. You can view a slideshow of Keith's photographs here.

WinkBall! Wigan V Wolves

2010-10-03T11:30:00.019Z

I was interviewed for 'WinkBall' prior to the the Wigan V Wolves game - here are the embarassing results. I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

At least I 'nearly' got the score and scorers right.

The wink is purely involuntary!

Congratulations to Rochdale FC

2010-04-27T20:15:00.005Z

Congratulations to Rochdale on their promotion to Division 1.

Last year I commented on Rochdale's disappointing end to the season and hoped they would finally get get promoted this year - well it has finally happened.

The club have played since 1974 in the Football League's bottom division, currently entitled League Two. This is the longest time any team has been in the bottom division of the football league.

I have a great respect for those who support their local clubs. You have to be dedicated to support a team like Rochdale. It would be so easy to support Man Utd or Chelsea or one of the other big four. Well done to Rochdale and their fans, and good luck next season in Division 1.

Top Ten Albums of the Decade

2009-12-01T20:43:00.005Z

After much deliberation here's my top ten of the noughties.

1. Arcade Fire – Funeral (2005)

2. Midlake - Trials of Van Occupanther (2006)

3. Paul Weller - 22 Dreams (2008)

4. Prefab Sprout - Let’s Change the World with Music (2009)

5. Elbow - Seldom Seen Kid (2008)

6. The Decemberists – The Crane Wife (2006)

7. Sufjan Stevens – Illinoise (2005)

8. Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes (2006)

9. Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That’s what I’m not (2006)

10. LCD Soundsystem - Sound of Silver (2007)

Here to discover, enjoy, debate and criticise. Over to you.

Top ten Albums of 2009

2009-11-18T14:39:00.006Z

Here's my top ten for 2009.

1. Prefab Sprout - Let's Change the World with Music
2. Florence & the Machine - Lungs
3. Doves - Kingdom of Rust
4. Arctic Monkeys - Humbug
5. Noah & the Whale - First Days of Spring
6. Monsters of Folk - Monsters of Folk
7. Echo & the Bunnymen - Fountain
8. Decemberists - Hazards of Love
9. Maps - Turning the Mind
10. Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More

Hopefully that lot will stimulate a little debate. I'd be interested in hearing about your top ten's. I'll also be compiling a top ten of the decade in the next few weeks, so look forward to receiving some alternative suggestions.

Open Neck Shirt 2009 is nearly upon us. Another year, another Open Neck Shirt, Friday 4th December, no doubt in the usual places. Look forward to seeing 'most' of you then.

Yorkshire Futures website

2009-10-27T19:09:00.004Z

To huge sighs of relief the Yorkshire Futures website is finally here. After 10 months from project initiation to go live, the Yorkshire Futures website is now up and running.

Our expertly written press release says it all.

New website for regional data and intelligence

Yorkshire Futures have launched their new website which has been re-designed in collaboration with Futurate, a Sheffield based digital agency. The website has been re-launched with a vibrant new look, new content, new features and provides the latest data and intelligence about the region.

The site is designed to be easy to use and informative, whether visitors want to find out about how the region is performing on the economy, environment and society, read about the latest published research and statistics, view and download images from around the region or find out about conferences and events.

The new design follows several months of research and development with website users and partner organisations, to find out what they wanted most from the site.

Ian Aspinall, Communications Manager at Yorkshire Futures said:
“Our aim was to develop a website that reflects our role as a provider of high quality, timely and relevant information. As well as providing key research, statistics and data, the site showcases good practice within the region, the changing economic, social and environmental life of our region through Progress in Pictures, as well as a new events calendar, RSS feeds, e-news bulletin and micro sites which all enhance the user experience.”

“This will significantly improve our digital presence and supports our mission to provide information and intelligence about the region, for the region, to improve decision making and better prepare us for the future.”

The site was developed in partnership with Sheffield based digital agency Futurate, who brought their award-winning creative design and innovative approach to the website, together with a fully integrated content management system, accessibility guidelines and website components.

Gill Osguthorpe, Operations Director of Futurate said: "It’s been great to have the opportunity to work with Yorkshire Futures to create an innovative new digital space. We’ve invested a lot of thinking in developing new ways to support their role as a key provider of research, information and intelligence in the region.”

Major new features on the Website include:

*Progress in Pictures - a longitudinal study of progress in the region through the medium of photography
*What Works Showcase - detailed case studies of best practice from around the region
*Tabbed News, Events, Research and Publications - Easy to use tabbed menu of news, events, research and publications means that finding the latest information is at the touch of a button
*Fully Integrated Search - includes searching of Yorkshire Futures partner sites

Talking about the new website, Simon Foy, Executive Director of Strategy at Yorkshire Forward and Chair of the Yorkshire Futures Steering Group, said: “ The new website is a great improvement on the previous site and provides a range of new features and services that will be extremely beneficial to our partners and other people working in the region. “

The new Yorkshire Futures website is now online at www.yorkshirefutures.com

ENDS
Note to Editors:
1. Yorkshire Futures is the region’s ‘Intelligence Network’. It seeks to help make Yorkshire and Humber a better place by bringing issues to the fore that need resolving; communicating solutions; and monitoring progress.
2. Yorkshire Futures commissioned Futurate at: www.futurate.com a Sheffield based digital agency to produce the website during 2009.
3. For more information, please contact Ian Aspinall, Communications Manager, Yorkshire Futures on 0113 394 9988; email ian.aspinall@yorkshirefutures.com
or Bea Jefferson, Programme Manager, Yorkshire Futures on 0113 394 9694 email bea.jefferson@yorkshirefutures.com

Bye Bye Brucie, Bring On Bobby

2009-06-04T20:37:00.005Z

Bye Bye Brucie
3 June 2009 - Steve Bruce leaves Wigan for Sunderland. Bruce did a very good job for Wigan in the year and a bit he stayed at the club. An 11th place finish last season, not bad for a little club. Yet there was a certain inevitability about his departure. Many Latics fans knew that he would leave when he got a better offer. According to reports Wigan paid him £45,000 per week, but Sunderland are now paying £60,000 per week and have suggested a transfer kitty of £60million.

Bring on Bobby
4 June 2009 - Many Wigan fans could be forgiven for feeling disappointed and let down by Bruce's departure, but the mood was soon lifted by the news that the former Latics midfielder and fans favourite Roberto (Bobby) Martinez was coming back to the club where he started his British footballing career. Bobby spent six succesful seasons at the club, initially as one of the three Amigos. His success as a Manager with Swansea was well noted and as soon as Bruce left, Dave Whelan moved quickly to get his man. We wish him a very successful stay at the DW stadium.

David Byrne on tour

2009-03-28T17:01:00.008Z

Looking forward to seeing David Byrne in Manchester on Monday night. He's playing songs from his collaborations with Brian Eno. Here's some photos from his world tour.

Adventures on the High Teas - In Search of Middle England

2009-01-22T21:15:00.009Z

Following on from Cider with Roadies and Pies & Prejudice, Adventures on the High Teas - In Search of Middle England is due for launch on 5th March 2009. Can Stuart Maconie make it a trio of excellent books?

As with Pies & Prejudice - In Search of the North, Stuart goes on a journey of discovery - trying to find the real 'Middle England.'

"Is Middle England about tradition and decency or closed minds and bigotry? Is it maypoles and evensong, or flooded market towns and binge drinkers in the park? Stands the church clock still at ten to three, and is there honey still for tea? And is Slough really as bad as Ricky Gervais and John Betjeman make out? Does Middle England hark all the way back to Arthurian legend and Merrie England, or is it a modern concept borne of Top Gear and Princess Diana? From Shakespeare to JK Rowling, Vaughan Williams to Craig David, William Morris to B&Q, "Morte D'Arthur" to "Midsomer Murders", Stuart Maconie leads the expedition, with plenty of stop-offs for tea and pastries, to discover the truth".

Perhaps his book jacket copy is getting a bit formulaic, but I'm sure he will come through with the goods.

30 years in an open neck shirt

2008-11-25T20:37:00.006Z

The Seven Oaks (fortunately not Paddy's Goose) is the start venue for the latest Open Neck Shirt event on Friday 28th November 2008. The usual suspects will be in attendance apart from Mr Clark who is away supporting a southern team in France.

Really 30 Years is quite an achievement for the boys - let the celebrations commence.

Albums of 2008

2008-11-13T21:47:00.005Z

The best of 2008.

1. Paul Weller -22 Dreams

2. Elbow - Seldom Seen Kid

3. Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes

4. Lykke Li - Youth Novels

5. Last Shadow Puppets - The Age of Understatement

6. Emiliana Torrini -Me and Armini

7. Noah & the Whale – Peaceful the World Lays Me Down

8. The Verve – Forth

9. TV on the Radio – Dear Science

10. David Byrne & Brian Eno – Everything That Happens Will Happen Today

Everything That Happens Will Happen Today

2008-09-04T16:22:00.006Z

David Byrne and Brian Eno and have recently finished their first collaboration in about 30 years. The name of the new record is 'Everything That Happens Will Happen Today'.

The album is available exclusively from this Web site. You can listen to all of the songs for free or purchase it in a variety of digital and physical formats. All formats can be downloaded immediately and physical CDs will be available soon. Enjoy!

The Word Magazine Album Map

2008-07-11T15:40:00.003Z

Interesting developments on the Word Magazine website, they've added an album map.
The map in typical Google Maps fashion pinpoints the spots where iconic album cover photographs were taken. You can zoom in by double-clicking an area of the map or by using the slider on the left hand side. Click on a blue marker to see details of that album.
Some recommended locations for music connoisseurs are:

The Smiths - The Queen is Dead
Microdisney - The Clock Comes Down The Stairs
London Calling - The Clash
Heaven Up Here - Echo & The Bunnymen
Coles Corner - Richard Hawley (It's not Sheffield)
Spring Hill Fair - The Go-Betweens

But don't stop there - you can add your own favourites to the map. It's really simple to do - well for some people....
http://www.wordmagazine.co.uk/album_atlas/

By the way, there is a Summer Open Neck shirt on Friday 25 July 2008, I might go along...

Poor Rochdale

2008-05-26T16:37:00.006Z

You have got to feel sorry for Rochdale fans. The club have played since 1974 in the Football League's bottom division, currently entitled League Two. This is the longest time any team has been in the bottom division of the football league. Rochdale looked as though they might finally escape from the endless disappointment, but lost 3-2 to Stockport in the in 2nd Division play off final at Wembley.

I have enjoyed many days out at Spotland as a Wigan Athletic supporter - we usually won. But if I had been born in Rochdale I would have been a Rochdale supporter and what a thankless cause that would be. However, I have a great respect for those who support their local clubs. You have to be a dedicated to support a team like Rochdale. It would be so easy to support Man Utd or Cheslea or one of the other big four. Respect to Rochdale and good luck next season.

The Wonderful North

2008-04-10T19:07:00.009Z

The splendidly titled 'The Wonderful North’ at http://www.thewonderfulnorth.com/ is an innovative public art project created by digital media agency Numiko with Leeds-based artists Bryan and Laura Davies. The ‘Online Expo’ is a virtual art exhibition that communicates the artists’ experiences of the North gained during a month-long road trip undertaken in January 2008. The Davies toured the North; meeting the public and researching some of the regions’ popular landmarks and hidden treasures before creating the exhibition. The artists have created the ‘Expo’ to showcase their art.

The result is a series of themed virtual pavilions dedicated to ‘Geography’,‘Culture’, ‘Economy’, ‘Society’ and ‘International’, each containing 20 exhibits that convey the artists’ ideas about the things they have seen and experienced, indexing the background to their inspiration alongside the exhibits. The exhibition focuses on issues that pertain to the changing nature of everyday life in the North, such as new housing and architecture, transport infrastructure, established industries and traditions as well the current push for regeneration through cultural landmarks.

Public participation and ‘real world’ interaction are central to the Wonderful North project. The project focused on suggestions made by registered users during the road trip to guide the artists on their journey in which they met people and visited places nominated by the public.
Check out the site at http://www.thewonderfulnorth.com/

The Coming of the Messiah

2008-01-18T22:01:00.000Z

To mass hysteria, not unlike Christ's entrance into Jerusalem - Kevin Keegan has been hailed as the new Newcastle United Manager and the saviour to all their endless suffering.
After a few months immersed in the madness that is north-east football, Mike Ashley Newcastle's owner, is sufficiently confused to give in to the clamour of the Geordie fans.
The appointment may not ultimately end in a crucifixion, but it will certainly end in tears.

The Keegan age has gone, football has moved on since Keegan was last in charge. The Big 4 dominate the game in England and Newcastle are unlikely to win a trophy in the forseeable future. And do not forget King Kev didn't win anything the first time around. Football Fans en masse are often like over excited children and Geordie fans in particular are the most delusional of any in the Premier League. The disappointment will be palpable.

Albums of 2007

2007-11-22T19:49:00.000Z

I thought I'd get in early this year, before all the crits have their say.

1. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

2. Cherry Ghost - Thirst for Romance

3. The Decemberists - Crane Wife

4. Editors - An End Has A Start

5. Laura Veirs - Saltbreakers

6. Artic Monkeys -Favourite Worst Nightmare

7. Richard Hawley -Lady’s Bridge

8. The New Pornographers - Challengers

9. Edwyn Collins - Home Again

10. LCD Sound System - Sound of Silver

What do you think?

I look forward to your lists....

Open Neck Shirt November 2007

2007-11-12T21:26:00.000Z

Open Neck Shirt 2007 will commence this Friday 16 November at 1.15pm in the Salutation Public House, All Saints , Manchester, England.

Enjoy!

http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=384210&y=396896&z=0&ar=Y

Still Worth Seeing Live?

2007-10-15T21:29:00.000Z

Still worth seeing live - which musicians have stood the test of time?
Who would you still go and see after all these years?

I'm afraid some groups are just past their 'sell out by date'. The Police, Pink Floyd and Status Quo now provide a cabaret for the over 60's. They really should forget it.

I recently saw the Blue Nile at the Bridgewater Hall and they certainly managed to recapture their heyday, but as you may know the Blue Nile are hardly the most animated group on stage.

I think Talking Heads could still cut it, I saw David Byrne a couple of years ago and he still has an incredible creative energy. Elvis Costello is another who can still rock it, when he sees fit.

Howard Devoto and Magazine would be worth seeing, especially if they could re-create the ground breaking 'Real Life. Although Howard and friends probably decided years ago that it was best not to remake some 'Secondhand Daylight'.

I suppose the Jam would be incredibly popular, but I can’t see Paul Weller getting back together with Bruce Foxton & Rick Buckler.

The Smiths would be an unlikely reunion given their acrimonious split, but if the original line up did get back together, I'm sure they could hack it.

My personal favourite would be Cathal Coughlan, at the controls with Microdisney or raging with the Fatima Mansions, either incarnation would be a very special event.

Cathal Coughlan - Only Losers Take The Bus

2007-10-15T21:26:00.001Z

Cherry Ghost - Thirst for Romance

2007-10-08T20:28:00.000Z

How could anybody from Bolton be this talented?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXi6hg90LUU

The Return of Phil 'the Swagman' Sorah

2007-10-04T19:04:00.000Z

The Return of the Swagman.

Rumour has it that Phil 'from down under' Sorah is due to return to dear old blighty on October 15.

After three years in the outback, Phil and his Jillaroo Margaret have decided to return to the northern hemisphere and what we like to call civilisation.

If all goes plan Phil will be joining us at the next Open Neck Shirt on Friday 16 November 2007.

I'm sure we are all looking forward to hear his stories of how he wrestled crocodiles and had to eat witchitty grubs.

Welcome back the Swagman.

MyFootballClub

2007-09-03T19:42:00.000Z

Well I've finally gone and done it....I've bought a share in a football club. Bizarrely it's not Wigan - I can't afford a Premier League club and Mr Whelan is running things quite nicely - I've signed up for a share in 'MyFootballClub' http://www.myfootballclub.co.uk/

Perhaps for the first time in football history, fans have been given the opportunity to buy and then take control of a professional football club – both on and off the pitch. Every MyFootballClub member has an equal say in team selection, player transfers and the running of the club. Members own the club through their MyFootballClub Trust, and together will attempt to guide the football club to success.

I have chosen Halifax for several reasons: firstly, both my children were born in Halifax hospital, secondly, Halifax are on the verge of financial extinction - see http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/h/halifax_town/6975489.stm

and thirdly, they fit the criteria of a lower league club with the potential for expansion.

The most popular club, as voted for by MyFootballClub members, and the one that most closely meets the following criteria, will be purchased:

51% or more of the football club shares can be bought
There is none, or a manageable debt
The club has the potential to reach the Premiership
The size of the stadium and the availability of public transport
The club is amenable to our approach

When you pay your membership fee, you will become a member of the MyFootballClub Trust. The Trust will purchase a controlling interest in the football club, in effect making you a joint owner of your football club. The MyFootballClub membership fee is £35. £27.50 will go towards purchasing a football club, buying new players and other club expenditure. £7.50 will go towards the administration of the MyFootballClub Trust and the building and management of the MyFootballClub website.

Looks like Fantasy Football can become a reality. Why not sign up and maybe save Halifax Town in the process.

Tony Wilson

2007-09-02T19:21:00.001Z

Relecting on the life and times of Tony Wilson, I think it is only right and appropriate that there is a tribute on the open neck shirt blog.

BoredByTheBig4

2007-08-07T09:59:00.000Z

There is a strong feeling that monopoly power is condemning the ideal of the people's game to an early twenty-first century grave. Not only do the 'Big 4' have the Premiership and Cups to themselves year after year, the rich runners-up Euro league guarantees them wealth in perpetuity. And as for the TV, radio and back pages, they fill the lot. I know that many of you are supporters of the 'Big 4', particularly Man Utd, but I think it is time for a re-assessment of how the power is divided. The T shirt entrepreneurs Philosophy Football have produced a special T shirt to highlight the problem at http://www.philosophyfootball.com/
Some of you may want to join the fans resistance with the Club 88 second choice strip.

Hitlers Sheffield Utd Suffer Their Downfall

2007-07-20T18:49:00.001Z

A meisterwerk....

The Summer Open Neck Shirt 2007

2007-07-10T21:06:00.000Z

The Summer Open Neck Shirt will commence at Dukes 92 in Castlefield, Manchester, England

at 12.45 on Friday 13 July 2007.
Full location details at: http://www.dukes92.com/location.php
See you there...

A Conversation....

2007-06-28T19:54:00.000Z

harry

just had a look at the blog, very interesting mate, good work.
excellent weather isn't it ?
went to see a french thriller called "tell no one" yesterday, very good indeed.
didn't watch much glastonbury but really enjoyed the arctic monkeys on friday night although i was a bit drunk.
nice to see you last wed, turned into a very nice evening and the loch fyne oyster bar was excellent, hope the office move has gone well.

peter

Pete,

Glad you enjoyed the blog - I've had an email from Clarkey, I think he's interested in joining us on the 13th. Do we have an itinerary yet? I think it would be good to take in the Festival Pavilion at some point. Good to see you as well - went to the X Keys again on Thursday. Office move isn't until mid July - just planning where everyone will sit at the moment.

Cheers Harry
PS Let me know when we have an itinerary and I will blog it!

harry
itinerary ?
don't really know. meet about 12.30-1.00 is
if the weather is okay then somewhere outside like dukes 92 would be good.
visit festival pavilion.
eat something.
go home not too late.
i haven't heard anything from clarky.
i'm on hols next week but will concentrate on details upon my return and e mail people.
bought the editors cd yesterday, very good indeed.

cheers
peter

Manchester International Festival

2007-06-21T19:42:00.000Z

Manchester International Festival (28 June - 15 July) http://www.manchesterinternationalfestival.com/ fortunately happens to coincide with the latest summer open neck shirt on Friday 13 July - full timings of the day to follow shortly.

Personal highlights of the festival include The Blue Nile, the Festival Futures lectures, The Fall (I know I can't make it Neil) and Damon Albarn and his Monkey - sorry Damon! But there's masses more including the recently announced Festival Pavilion - so get your asses down to Mcr City Centre this summer.

The Festival Pavilion is set to become the hub of the Festival. Located at Manchester Central (formerly G-MEX and the MICC) the Pavilion will be at the epicentre of the Festival itself. It will feature a range of live music, visitors to the Pavilion can use the space to relax between shows, have something to eat or simply soak up the Festival’s ambience and energy....or just get out of the rain.

The Pavilion site will house some unique offerings; from an exclusive screening of unseen Sex Pistols and Buzzcocks footage, to multi-award winning chef Heston Blumenthal’s bespoke Festival culinary creations, to an eclectic programme of international music. Additionally, a programme of Artists in Conversation (Not Piss Artists) will take place in Manchester Central.

The Pavilion has programmed a diverse range of musicians to play lunchtime and rush hour concerts. Spanning jazz, world and classical music, the music programme picked some of the best artists from Manchester. The lunchtime concerts will run from 12.30pm – 2pm; while rush hour concerts will take place from 5pm – 7.30pm.

A wide range (so they say) of food will be available in the Pavilion.
Eyck Zimmer, National and Manchester Chef of The Year 2006, and executive chef at the 5 star Lowry Hotel, will be creating simple, classic northwest fine food, (Steak Pudding, Chips, Peas & Gravy then) in conjunction with the team led by world masterchef, Larry Serra. There will be plenty of wine, beers and spirits on site.

Multi-award winning chef Heston Blumenthal will create three chilled summer treats to be sold exclusively at the Pavilion site. Bringing Blumenthal’s innovative culinary methods to Manchester for the first time, the unique dishes have been created especially for the Festival.

The Festival will screen exclusive footage of two of the most revolutionary bands, at one of their most historic gigs – The Sex Pistols and err The Buzzcocks at The Free Trade Hall on 20th July 1976.

You don't need to be a ticket holder to enjoy the Festival Pavilion. It’s open from early until late, between Friday 29 June and Sunday 15 July. See you there....

joy division

2007-06-05T19:18:00.001Z

The provisional date for the summer open neck shirt is now Friday 13th July! In the meantime here's Joy Division performing Transmission with an intro and an outro by JCC performing Chickentown.

A Certain Ratio - Shack Up

2007-03-14T15:57:00.001Z

Just spotted this seminal video from ACR on the phenomenon that is YouTube. If you are not already addicted to YouTube, it is only a matter of time....

The Word Interview with Stuart Maconie

2007-03-12T10:49:00.000Z

Stuart Maconie recently did an interview with David Hepworth of The Word magazine about his recommended new book 'Pies and Prejudice - In Search of the North'. Here's a link to the piecast for you to download:

http://laxman.audioblog.com/rss/wordpodcast.xml

Football, Photography & the World

2007-03-02T21:49:00.000Z

I've been a fan of Stuart Clarke's photography for a number of years having bought his wonderful book 'Football in Our Time' - A Photographic Record of Our National Game' back in 2003. He's now introduced a brand new website at: http://www.homesoffootball.co.uk/
The new look website aims to reflect Stuart's wider body of work. The intention is to put his entire collection online, which means you'll be able to browse, search and even request to purchase individual photographs. The brand new 'Football, Photography & The World' will feature music festivals and environmental issues as well as, of course, his great specialism footy. Stuart has enjoyed great success with his Homes Of Football Exhibition in Ambleside, Cumbria over the past 15 years. His work has had a huge impact on the changing the face of football culture. A record-breaking 15 year exhibition tour to 88 cities and 2 million people. A staggering 1,200 media interviews, five books, two TV programmes, three quarters of a million visitors to the Ambleside headquarters and the plaudits of football legends, national team managers and even some heads of government. Stuart Clarke's own Giant Step Book Publishing will be releasing a series of books over the coming years, reflecting the growth in the archive. There are currently 2012 photos online... and counting. Definitely worth a look methinks!

Pies and Prejudice - In Search of the North

2007-01-28T17:35:00.000Z

Well it finally arrived yesterday Stuart Maconie's new book 'Pies and Prejudice - In Search of the North'. I'm only half way through, but it's another quality offering from the author of 'Cider With Roadies'. A social commentary with laugh out loud moments and witty observations about our friends in the North. A top Wiganer and a long time Latics supporter as well. It's available online at: www.amazon.co.uk
or from the usual bookshops. Rush out and order a copy now.

Talking Moose

2006-11-21T19:22:00.000Z

Was there really a Talking Moose at the Open Neck Shirt on Friday, or was it just a figment of my imagination?

Twenty Eight Bloody Years

2006-11-09T19:14:00.000Z

The Open Neck Shirt
17 November 2006, Manchester, England

1pm The Sevenoaks

2pm Albert Square - Christmas Market

3pm Circus Tavern

5pm La Tasca, Deansgate

6.30pm onwards - Britons Protection, Peveril of the Peak, Corbieres, etc

Any problems, and all nuisance phone calls to Neil on 07976 540836 - Hey Phil we expect at least one!

As usual it is...
Politics, gratuitous insults, lying and cheating, violence and heavy drinking.

The Open Neck Shirt 2006

2006-10-02T19:52:00.000Z

Another year has passed, but what are the significant changes that have taken place in the lives of the Open Neck Shirters.....

Will Phil now be called 'Digger', and be living somewhere in the Outback?
Will Pete have become a Hari Krishna?
Will Neil have had a full body wax?
Will Harry have joined the Tory party?
Will Ken have opened a Gay Wine Bar in Gorton?
Will Stan have joined the Local Immigrant Support Group?
Will Gary have become a Viagra addict?
Will Graham have become a Trappist Monk?
Will Jon have become Ben Thatcher's agent?
Will Ian have joined the Pearly Kings?

All will be revealed at twenty eight years in an Open Neck Shirt on Friday 17th November 2006.

Full details of the day's itinerary to follow soon.

Hacienda Exhibition

2006-09-06T13:45:00.000Z

The Haçienda - Photographs of Manchester's Legendary Club
18 Oct - 4 Dec
Urbis

As part of it's Manchester Season, Urbis has commissioned photographer Ian Tilton's homage to the Hacienda. This should be of interest to both Open Neck Shirters and all students of pop culture. This exhibition is a precursor to the much larger Hacienda retrospective due next summer.

Manchester Music Archive

2006-03-29T12:28:00.000Z

I recently purchased the Q Classic magazine 'Morrissey & The Story of Manchester', which is highly recommended for nostalgia freaks and Manchester music fans. Contained within is an article about the Manchester Music Archive at http://www.mdmarchive.co.uk
This is a very useful online resource about the Manchester music scene. There is a poster and photograph archive, information about upcoming events and the archive would like contributions about your Manchester music experiences. The long term ambition is to create a building based museum. The team have already sourced thousands of artefacts, records, posters, flyers, recordings, and personal journals. The archive covers everything from the Halle Orchestra, the formation of the Musicians Union to Manchester's newest bands. Recently the archive was able to sift through the lock-up of Rob Gretton the Manager of Joy Division and New Order. Rob kept almost everything from his time as Manager. The notebooks amount to a complete history of the band, plus there are photos, posters, hundreds of Factory acetates, white labels and live tapes.
There is also an excellent unofficial blog, history and archive about Factory Records at Cerysmatic Factory http://www.cerysmaticfactory.info
which is well worth checking out.
I've added the two sites to the Links section on the side panel for future reference.

Musical Nostalgia Reigns

2006-01-31T09:58:00.000Z

Musical Nostalgia Reigns

Why are we always listening to old records and CD's? Is it because we are nostalgic and like to remember our association with a particular band or album? Or is it because these bands and albums and have stood the test of time and still sound great today?
Of course, it's a combination of both. These bands and albums still sound great. But they have a greater resonance for us. We are nostalgic for our youth and the associated events which relate to a particular band or album.

'Dragnet' - The Fall at Cavendish.
A remarkable band whose mercurial longevity is renowned.
Mark E Smith is hit by a bottle thrown from the crowd - in typical Smith style he leaves the stage and tries to assault the perpetrator. Only the actions of the rest of the band prevent a mini riot. The Fall go on to put in an incredible performance quite unlike anything I'd ever seen before.

'Give Em Enough Rope' - The Clash at the Apollo.
The Clash take the stage, the crowd surges forward the punks and pseudo punks leap forwards pogoing and jumping on each other. Half way through the first song the bouncers have had enough and randomly remove a few of the punters. Unfortunately our house mate Rob Miller is one of those removed and misses the rest of the gig. Despite the removals the pogoing continues undiminished. The Clash are the predominant band of the time. At the gig and maybe because of the hype I am somewhat reluctant to be over enthusiastic. In retrospect the performance is, of course, excellent and their music has definitely stood the test of time.

'Chairs Missing' - Wire at the Factory.
For some strange reason I was at that Mancunian institution 'Tommy Ducks' and was drinking with a disparate group, Mike Wales, Anne, Julian Bickerton, Andy? and maybe some others? We didn't have tickets for Wire, but we just thought we'd go along and see if we could get in.
This was our first time at the Factory, we walked through the urban wasteland that was Hulme and managed to find the Russell Club or the Factory as it was known on certain nights. This was possibly the coolest and probably the edgiest of venues and it was to be one the most memorable gigs ever. Wire produce a remarkable set, totally different from anything else I had seen and heard before. The band are almost statuesque on stage, lit in a half light and the performance is mesmeric. An event and an album that will live in the mind forever.

Ultimately I think we return to these albums not only because they still sound great today, but because they remind us of the events, the new experiences, the feelings, and the emotions. They were very exciting times indeed.

Ten Great Albums of 1980

2005-12-18T21:06:00.000Z

1. Remain in Light - Talking Heads
2. Boy - U2
3. Crocodiles - Echo and the Bunnymen
4. Empires and Dance - Simple Minds
5. Strange Boutique - The Monochrome Set
6. Get Happy - Elvis Costello
7. Closer - Joy Division
8. Metamatic - John Foxx
9. Psychedelic Furs - Psychedelic Furs
10. Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables - The Dead Kennedys

Dodgy Photos

2005-11-28T12:18:00.000Z

Well it was a great turn out on Friday, the only obvious
absentee was Phil G'day Sorah and he had a legitimate excuse. We'll expect to see you next year Phil. I only managed to take a few pics on Friday, I don't think they do full justice to the day's events.

Can't quite remember Neil's 'graphical' comment, but did remember that Pete has an obsession with A**l Cream Pie! I won't include the link, I think you can guess anyway......

OU` EST LA MAISON DE FROMAGE?

2005-11-21T13:17:00.000Z

To celebrate The Open Neck Shirt, the bard of Salford, John Cooper Clarke has re-issued his 1978 classic album, Ou` est la maison de fromage? More info at: http://www.amazon.co.uk

Well it's 27 years in an Open Neck Shirt on Friday 25th November 2005.
Kick off is 1pm in the Sevenoaks.
Look forward to seeing you all.

Ten Great Albums of 1979

2005-11-16T22:06:00.000Z

1. Dragnet - The Fall
2. Entertainment! - Gang of Four
3. London Calling - The Clash
4. Unknown Pleasures - Joy Division
5. Three Imaginary Boys - The Cure
6. Reproduction - The Human League
7. B52's - B52's
8. Armed Forces - Elvis Costello
9. Fear of Music - Talking Heads
10. Inflammable Material - Stiff Little Fingers

Only Two Weeks To Go

2005-11-11T14:38:00.000Z

Only two weeks to go to 'The Open Neck Shirt 2005'.

The key questions to be asked.....

Will Phil fly in from Australia?
Will Pete find a new football team to support?
Will Neil apologise for all that he has done?
Will Harry show restraint?
Will Ken stay longer than 5pm?
Will Stan still like Maggie Thatcher?
Will Gary, Graham, Jon and Ian all show up?
Ou` est la Maison de fromage?

These and many other questions will be answered on the 25th November.

See You There.

Ten Great Albums of 1978

2005-11-01T12:15:00.000Z

Another Music In A Different Kitchen - The Buzzcocks
Real Life - Magazine
The Man Machine - Kraftwerk
Stage (Live) - David Bowie
More Songs About Buildings & Food - Talking Heads
Give 'Em Enough Rope - The Clash
This Year's Model - Elvis Costello
Chairs Missing - Wire
Who Are You - The Who
Parallel Lines - Blondie

Student Life in 1978

2005-10-25T16:21:00.000Z

Some Memories of Student Life in 1978

People with strange and unusual names: Julian Bickerton; Ramy Zack; Nicholas Bodicombe; Peter Sebastian Younger ……and ‘Neil Smith’.
In the first week being moved from Royal Ford Hall of Residence to Cavendish Halls because we had no water supply.
Early Cavendish Gigs – Gruppo Sportivo, Joe Jackson, The Fall, Stiff Little Fingers.
Skirmishes at Didsbury Union with the Rugby team. Nick Broad threatening to take on all the Rugby Team in a fight.
Bizarrely being attacked by young kids in Didsbury and repelling them all too easily.
Aytoun Street Coffee Bar and the Table Football games.
Beers in front of the Old Cock Pub in hot weather.
Nick ‘Bodysnatcher’ Bodicombe smoothing himself around the girls.
Peter stealing Adele’s underwear.
Dislocating my finger playing cricket at Royal Ford – Smudger put it back into the socket.
Wire at ‘The Factory’, Russell Club in Hulme
Wigan’s first season in the Football League.
Jimmy ‘Mr Aston Villa’ Williams – where are you now Jimmy?
The Plaza – Curries for the criminally drunk, the ‘Hot’, the ‘Killer’, and the ‘Suicide’.
The Toyota 1000 – Did I really ‘only’ charge 50p a ride?

I look forward to your memories of 1978.

The Gang of Three

2005-10-15T00:43:00.000Z

Welcome

2005-10-14T22:00:00.000Z

Welcome to 'The Open Neck Shirt - A Blog for Our Times.'

This is an online forum for a group of disparate students and some Manchester based friends, who started at Manchester Polytechnic in 1978. Ian Harry Aspinall, Neil Aloysius Smith, Peter Sebastian Younger, Phil G'day Sorah, Kenneth Albert Thorpe, Ian Stan Shaw, Gary Vicary, Ian Clark, Graham Sutherland, Jon Marshall and various other occasional guests.

It's only taken 27 years to get this forum started.
But now it has finally begun, let's start with a rant about .... 'What's Currently Annoying With The World'.

Rant No 1- The Rage of Age
1. Stupid ringtones and loud f**kers - Have some manners.
2. Is the Premiership boring argument - No it isn't.
3. Loyalty Cards and Points - Just give us the money off.
4. Takeaway rubbish littering the streets - You Chavs put it in the bin.
5. Stupid hairstyles for men - Get a grip on yourselves boys.
6. Clone Towns - We don't want the same shops and shopping centres in every small town.
7. Fern Cotton, Top of the Pops - Get rid of this woman with the ridiculously pretentious voice.
8. ID Cards - Potential cost 5.8bn, they are having a laarf.
9. Bernard Ingham - Yorkshire pratt extraordinaire.
10. Dog shit on my front lawn - Just clean it up.

Future topics include: More Rants; the Annual Get Together; Neil's 'former' sex life; Where we will go on the 25th November this year?
Other important topics include: Football (Yes, aren't Wigan doing well); Beer (does that include Lager?); Good Music (but don't mention Chris de Burgh); Culture and Politics (that covers just about everything then).

Please feel free to add your comments/ideas below and don't forget to send any embarrassing electronic photographs to me so that they can be published on this blog.