GTV Happy New Year!

Fer flip sake, happy new year!

Har are you?

You are in a hurry....

...waiting in line at a filling station when the person in front of you ACTUALLY DOES want to take the assistant up on her offer of a 'nectar' card.

Have you EVER seen that happen? I was shocked, the assistant was shocked, maybe even the customer himself just involotarily agreed to the question asked a thousand times a day: "Would you like a wee nectar card?".

There was no going back now, not only does this guy accept the nectar (reward point scheme thing, for those of you who may not live in the UK) card, but then asks EXACTLY how it works and could the shop assistant show him what he needs to fill in on the application form?

I have never seen customer service devotion like this girl, who took her customer through ALL of the fine points of what the scheme entailed and how the points are accumulated and where he should AFFIX THE BLOODY POSTAGE STAMP!

Meanwhile, the other tills are closed, there is no other queue, just me, so the other shop assistant did not see the need to open her till and serve me during this 5 minute epic, 'War and Peace' like display of product knowledge. Maybe the second assistant was just standing back and admiring this act of company pride from a distance.

BAH HUMBUG

currently listening to:
"Audiolab", from NY public radio
(avilable on itunes store for free)

Better than Starbucks....

Today's secret Steria Santa, bestowed upon me a 'Grow your own' coffee kit!

When the apocalypse is finally upon us and people are clambering for supplies and food, I'll be one step ahead of the game, as i'll be doing all of that but wired on homemade coffee!

Thank you secret Santa.

Ps, the apocalypse better not happen for 3 years, as this is how long it'll take to get beans!

GTV edinburgh

This is a taste of what a Giants away trip looks like. Hot off the video press, enjoy:

Belfast Applestore?

Apple to arrive in Belfast

(scroll about half way down the article)

Firewalkin'... the story.

Kind thanks to Nigel C for taking pictures. Video to follow. (click to enlarge) That's me top left, my friend Raj top right, and me again below, but with 3 feet!

Back a few months ago the Belfast Giants official supporters club announced that for children in need this year there would be a "firewalk". Jo wanted to take photos of this wonderous event, so we made a deal that she'd take photos if i did the firewalk. I didn't really think much more about it till yesterday morning.

There was a 45 minute briefing beforehand so that the guy could explain:
• The coals are hot
• I would get black feet
• You might get a blister
• Basics of reflexology
• Beliefs of some firewalkers
• He was the world record holding firewalker (mentioned at least 17 times)

Some of the stuff he talked about was fairly interesting. For instance, in some parts of the world firewalking was a test of honour. Girls are forced to firewalk and if they don't get blisters then they are virgins. If they then get blisters they are dishonoured. (It is intersting to point out that most people looked worried at this point.)

The guy also mentioned he was the world record holding firewalker.

Some cultures use firewalking as an indication of health. If you get a blister in a certain area of your foot, consult reflexology charts, figure out which part of your body is effected, (indicated obviously by the presence of a blister), and have the doctor sort you out.

The guy also mentioned he was the world record holding firewalker.

Despite all this, the walk itself was a fairly painless exercise, apparently due to my ora, poor heat conduction, static electricity, the belief that I could do it and not be harmed...... etc.

I walked over the coals 3 times in total, cuse i was excited.
I did not have a life changing experience.
I didn't 'find myself', cuse i was here all along.

It felt like walking on gravel, it was not sore, but later on in the evening i developed a burning sensation on my right foot.

A small blister appeared on my right foot, but just in case you are curious, my chastity is however intact.

Firewalkin'

This evening I'm being "hauled across the coals" for charity.
I'm "hot footing" it down to the Odyssey.
All for the kids.

Nice knowing you all,
(thanks to Elia for the puns)

M

Martyn Joseph

The other night i went to the Real Music Club at the Errigle Bar, Belfast. Martyn Joseph was playing the only Irish gig of this tour.

I started to get into things about 3/4 of the way through his set. It is always difficult with material that you are unfamiliar with, but it just took a little while for him to catch my interest.

I started to pay closer attention when he played "Cardiff Bay" a song that regularly plucks at the heartstrings of the most hardened 'tuff guy', due to its father and son relationship content.

One surprise was that he is responsible for mid 90's, "most ripped off in Christian outreach meetings", anthem: "What if God was one of us?". This performance of the song was a very different version than Joan Osborne's recording. The tone of the lines "Yeah, yeah, God is great/Yeah yeah, God is good" was sung with such sarcasm and bitterness. I'd mistaken this in the popular version as being an acknowledgment of God, rather than a statement of disgust. I was left in no doubt of his opinion.

A reasonable enough gig, but it will probably be the only time i'll go to see this guy live. Didn't really leave me wanting more.

7 days of rest....

....started yesterday.

Work is a little hectic and depressing at the moment. I have lots of leave to take, so i seized upon the opportunity to take a week to relax, catch up on things i need to do like finally cutting those toenails and trimming hair that is growing in places i didn't think it should till you are 70.

Monday has been a good start, I got up at 10, had lunch with Paul Fellowes, played credit controller for a difficult account for Jo, called the Giants to discuss videos and updated my blog. Its only 3pm! Now i'm pff to play 'The Warriors', a game Jo got me ages ago for the playstation 2. I was playing another game at the time and forgot all about it!

I've also consumed my body weight in good coffee.

Come on 'rest of the week'. I'm ready for you!

Currently listening to:
Song: A song for Brenda
Artist: Cool John Ferguson
Album: Artists in Resonance

Did I just die?

Check this web comic out.

Currently listening to:
Song: Father and Daughter
Artist: Paul Simon
Album: Surprise

GTV # 3

Here is the latest:



Currently Listening to:
Track: Keep the car running
Artist: The Arcade Fire
Album: Neon Bible

Fundalk Giants Part Deux.....

To quote Dr. Peter Venkman in the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters:
"We came we saw we kicked its ass.."

The Giants won 5-1 against the Manchester Phoenix at the Dundalk Ice Dome.

I think the main reason was that I was playing music at the event. A hasty arrangement between the rink manager and I who apologised for not calling me back and said: 'so, are ya doin the music for us then?' fantastic.

I did really enjoy the evening with Arn by my side announcing. We had a lot of fun. I was dared to play Sean Beren's cheese grater "back in Belfast" and so i did. I got a laugh from a few of the hockey faithful. Let me explain:

Sean Berens is a guy I used to play guitar with, an ex-giant. I engineered a single for him called 'Back in Belfast' which was pretty awful, but I did play all of the tracks bass, rythm, and lead guitar also singing harmony. We debuted this single around the radio stations in Belfast, playing live on the air. 'Back in Belfast' was a declaration of love for the town and his general excitement at being back here after a season elsewhere. Shortly after we played it live everywhere, Sean left us to play ice hockey for a Sweedish team. It was a great opportunity for him, but left me without a musical partner and pretty much ended eny chance i had at a musical career. The song is now regarded to be a joke given his flaky disregard for his new found home once offered a better deal. (wow that was a load off my chest).

Neverthelesss, the Giants triumphed and are now officially on a winning streak after 3 whole games won in a row. Get in!

Currently listening to: Song: Everybody wants a little something Good Artist: Duke Special Album: Songs from the Deep Forest

Fundalk Giants

Today Jo and I are joining lots of Belfast Giants fans in Dundalk while the team play a home away game. Confused? Well, the Giants are playing in Dundalk Ice Dome because the Odyssey is unavailable. There is a horse show or westlife or something.

The bottom line is that the Odyssey arena make much more money from every other event than ice hockey. More punters attend, more drink bought... you get the idea.

So, i'm having the rare occasion to WATCH the giants, at a home game (away) and not be doing anything. This was not for want of trying to do things. I've been trying to get in contact with the Dundalk management all week to try and have them hire my musical services. The closest I got was yesterday when I finally got through to one of the managers on his mobile and he made and excuse to hang up. Very professional.

Anyhoo, on a brighter note, Jo is working on a new Giants vid, which should be ready in a few days. I thought i'd include a screenshot to show how flattering images taken out of context can be. Sorry Debs!

Currently listening to:
Monty Got A Raw Deal
REM
Automatic For The People

Ah Crap....

I found out this morning that I'm not going to be working for Steria for a whole lot longer.

Let me explain. We have a contract to work for a government client. That client was reviewing our contract and put it out to tender.

We made the final 3 list of contractors, but not the final 2. Being forward thinking, our management decided to talk to the finalists. We have special knowledge of the setup here and are pretty indispensable.

We only got an offer from one of the finalists, who agreed to hire us in the event of them winning the contract. The other finalist told us to get lost.

The finalist who told us to get lost won the contract.

This is not as bad as it first seems. I am a little gutted, because i like working for Steria, but this is where TUPE comes in. TUPE, pronunced "tue-pay" stands for 'Tranfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment)'.

Basically, I can't be made redundant from a job that will still exist under a new company. I have the legal right to be employed by the new contractor, at the same money and with the same conditions i enjoy with Steria.

A change is as good as a rest eh? I'm a little anxious, but I do believe in God having a plan for my life. I don't think i'm going hungry anytime soon. I will have a job with the new guys and i'm sure most of my workmates have little choice but to do the same.

Prayer please. Updates to follow.

I took a ride

After not properly riding a bike for any distance for more that 10 years (maybe 12), I decided enough was enough.

Phil and Christine, my lovely potential parents-in-law, bought me a bike 2 Christmases ago. I was delighted at this wonderful gesture and so resolved to ride the bike come the good weather in the new year (2005). Here we are in 2007 and I've finally ridden it home, without stopping i might add. A distance of 2.8 miles. (wow).

This is the start of a wonderful riding career, i can just feel it!


Currently listening to:
Track: Brakerfall
Artist: Pearl Jam
Album: Binural

That tears it!

I've sent back my troublesome Nokia n93 for the second time and for the same problem in under a year. The phone is randomly turning itself off, forgetting its date and time and hanging on the camera application.

Apparently, according to the kindly technician at Dunmorris in Lisburn, "the whole N series are like this". Helpful.

I'm not good when phones malfunction.

I can expect to get the phone back in about 6 months I expect.

Joy.

Still with the old videos.....

Whilst rummaging in a cupboard i came across the following old video that Dave Allen and I made for Baptist Youth.

I was skinny.

Currnetly listening to:
Song: "The Swish"
Artist: The Hold Steady
Album: Almost Killed Me

The Shepherds Dog

Ever since I heard the lo-fi goodness of a song called "Such Great Heights" I've been a fan of Iron and Wine. Sam Beam's breathy vocal arrangements coupled with the multi-layered, bedroom-ambience guitar tracks of his early demos struck a chord with me right away.

I downloaded a load of demo tracks and found a well honed style of accoustic guitar based love songs and fables that reminded me of Simon and Garfunkle, only mixed with messy slide guitar.

To best describe the bulk of the work, if a movie was made of my life, Iron and Wine would be the lovely drifting off to sleep moments and dream sequences. It is a difficult thing to describe, but listening to Iron and Wine makes me feel like that moment you wake up too early and realise you are going to have a lie in. And relax.

As well as having many fine happy numbers there are darker songs, which have the effect of making me visualise autumn evenings, just like the the time of year we are enjoying at the moment. These songs make me want to crawl back into bed and get snuggled up under the covers and hibernate.

The Shepard's Dog has just such numbers back to back. My favorites on the album in fact, tracks 3-5 which run into each other a range of emotions and mental imagery. "Lovesong of the Buzzard" kicks of this trio with an upbeat and seemingly joyful collection of thoughts with his trademark slide guitar, some organ, accordian and plenty of percussion. The magic for me is when the song ends and merges into "Carousel".

There is a constant major chord and hawian sounding, far away, dreamy slide guitar. This sets the scene in my head of a lovely summers evening. Added are some sharp accordian stings sounding very jolly, like a circus performer. This is where something starts to change, something is wrong. Tones being played backwards as if everything was slowing down creep in, then the major chord turns minor, changing everything to that winter, uncertain sound. Gentle feedback swells, then clean electric guitar with piano, the chords are still minor and uncertain, but at the end of the progression reassuring and safe sounding, then back again.

The sound simplifies down to guitar and piano most of the way through, as Beam's vocal warbles over the top, with some xylophone and organ, which sounds reminiscent of "Riders on the Storm" by the Doors.

As "Carousel" ends, we hear the same tones being played backwards as at the start, as if they signified the end of a flashback or revelation. "House by the Sea" begins with vibraphone, percussion and harmonica. Out of nowhere comes acoustic guitar and electric guitar which sounds edgy with slight distortion and crybaby. These instruments drive the track, giving an intense energy.

Beam always sounds like he is smiling as he sings. Maybe the guy just loves his job, he certainly makes great music, I guess I'd be smiling if i were him.

The entrie album "The Shepards Dog" is a mix of moods and styles, some of which are new ground for him. One review I read said that Sam Beam's music was as impressive as his beard. I've enclosed a picture below, so you can at least see how impressive his beard is. Now you must get the album to see if the second half of that statement is true.

Currently Listening to:
Song: Carousel
Artist: Iron and Wine
Album: The Shepard's Dog

Downgrade anyone?

This was very funny.

Viva XP!

M

Currently listening to:
The new Foo Fighters Album
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace

Tim, it was only a matter of time.....

The Spar in Great Victoria Street, opposite the Europa Hotel has had a refit. Ladies and Gentlemen, I bring you the first Tim Horton's in Belfast.

I used to work in this crap hole, and I can tell you that if i had worked there when this refit had happened, i'd probably be the size of a house by now. (a house, not "House" aka Hugh Laurie).

Rejoice with me then, friends of Boston Creme do-nuts and 'medium-strength-non offensive-but-not-bad-either-coffee. I was too wired already to get any coffee when I was in, so it'll have to wait for another day.

Below is how you will find them:

Currently listening to:
Speed Meal, cuse 'i'm so wired up, don't need no coffee in my cup.'

HARARYA, Grace Erin Allen!

Great news from Canada this morning.

Dave and Stacey Allen have had a new arrival.


Fergoodnessake Gracie Erin Allen, hararya?

Congratulations from the McIvor Clan.

Giants TV # 2

Jo has been working extra hard on editing the latest instalment of Giants TV.

Check it out below:



Many thanks to Mike Parke from "loadstone" for providing the music.

Goodnight John McIlfatrick

Another character leaves us for the better life.

I met John McIlfatrick at Carrickfergus Baptist Church when we started to attend their services back in the early 90's. He was a lovely old fella with a razor sharp wit.

I remember him talking to my mum just before my family were due to take a trip down south one time. He asked where we were going, and when my mum said that we were going to somewhere in Southern Ireland he said something to the effect of "be careful not to be going into one of those bars" and then with a little glint in his eye "or at least, make sure no one sees you!" This was typical of this old gentleman.

I know he was not in best health for the last few years, and even though he's not here anymore i'm glad he's in a better place tonight. (see the last word of the statement in the paper below)

From this evening's Belfast Telegraph:

Died September 10, 2007, peacefully, at home, dearly-loved husband of Eleanor, father of Alan and Lynn, father-in-law of Sonja and Ian and dear grandfather to Ryan, Matthew and Elin. Family flowers only. Funeral arrangements later. Redeemed.

Bye John.

Giants season about to kick off......

Its time to start the Belfast Giants season off again.

Lets start with a video Jo and I made for the new Giants Official YouTube Channel:




Music help was from Five Dollar Soul. (Many thanks to Ross Thompson).

Blackpool

There are only 4 different types of expression on the faces of those waiting in line to ride the Pepsi Max Rollercoaster. The first is anxious, the second is buddist-cow-calm, the third smiling or joking to hide the terror and fourth yawning.

The Pepsi Max Rollercoaster or 'The Big One' at Blackpool's pleasure beach is 213 feet tall. This was until recent times the tallest fastest rollercoaster in Europe, it spans the length and bredth of the pleasure beach giving a white knuckle view of the attractions thereabouts. The initial climb to 231 feet is followed by an almost vertical drop and a hard right turn sending the occupant spiraling down to what under normal circumstances would be a quick, mangled death.

Waiting in line is the perfect place to get your affairs in order. Ok, I know the thing has been running all day without technical hitch. The track has been walked by some clearly foolish gentleman this morning, and he gives it the all clear. The other folks are giving no thought to the afterlife outcome of an unfortunate parting of car from track, but i can't help but think: have i accomplished all i wanted in this life? If i met blackpool pleasure beach pavement would I be happy to check out to the next life? A sobering thought indeed that did not actually seem to be sobering up the hen party that was in the queue in front of me.

Its times like this, or when people are passengers in my car when i'm driving, that prayer does not seem like a bad idea. I must admit to, rather selfishly, praying that Joanne and I would come out the other side of this experience of speed and G force unscathed. God did indeed follow through and the 9 or 10 times that we rode the 'Big One' over our stay in Blackpool we never as much gained a scratch.

Blackpool can be subdivided into 4 categories. Amusement arcade, Casino, Club or Burger / other fried food joint. Don't get me wrong, I actually quite like the place, its tackier than drying super glue and looks like it could generally do with a bit of a clean, but it has a certain charm. This charm that i speak of is similar to that which you find in Portrush, Northern Ireland, Niagra town, near Niagra Falls in Canada or any other carnival town. Don't scratch to far beneathe the surface! It's cheap tea and food, promise of easy money and cheap thrills are what sells it to the weekenders who come in from all over the UK and abroad to sample its dubious candyfloss delights.

While Jo and I were there we met nice people randomly, either through the place we stayed or sharing queue or dinner table. One of the more interesting encounters was at the pleasure beach when we were sharing a filthy outdoor restaurant table with a couple who's children and grandchildren were here for a day out. Peter, the grandfather, had grown up in Blackpool and was telling me of how it once was the place to be. Every weekend he and his friends would come to the pleasure beach, and when he grew older they'd still head down from the places they lived. Now Blackpool is the domain of stag do's and hen parties. There was actually a tear in his eye as he described the decline of the town he loved into a weekend binge drinkers paradise.

That being said, Jo and I saw very little actual trouble. Families were the vast majority of the population during the weekdays. It was only when we were coming home on the flight back to Belfast International that I heard any serious rowdy behavior, from Belfast chavs no less. On the whole we had a good time, apart from Jo getting a bad cold which marred the final days.

The B&B we stayed at was called The Caroldene Hotel, situated in Woodfield Road, slap bang between the centre and south piers. We were practically on the promenade where you can catch a tram to either end of the town for a couple of quid. The Caroldene was clean and cheerfully run by the lovely Sue, who chased after our every need.

Blackpool should be experienced, at least once. Ride 'The Big One' go up the tower, have a cut price hot dog, have a flutter on the races, take in a show on the pier, visit the wax works. Most of all buy a stick of rock. Just avoid the hen parties!



Currently Listening to: "We're all going on a summer holiday" Cliff RIchard

Steria (drunken) bowling.....

I'm just posting this for fun, and so i can get at it easily.

This is what the good folks at my company are like when we get together out of work hours!



I was supposed to be doing my windows XP exam the day this was filmed. The test centre was closed when i turned up and i was given no explanation by Thompson Prometric, the testing people who just asked politely: "Did no one contact you to arrange moving your appointment?"

No one had called me, of course they hadn't or I would not have been studying every waking hour for the past month or panicing in the carpark about whether i was too early or trying, against my usual exam taking odds, to remember the fine details of unattended installations.

Why am I explaining this? Well, the end of the video has a clip from Chris Evan's BBC Radio 2 Drive Time show, which he mentioned the text i'd sent in explaining my rubbish day to this point, but how it was fine now 'cuse the folks in my office were all going bowling!

After checking through, just now, I've realised that the radio mention bit got cut from the end of the video. It was a good day all round. I'll post the mention in a bit.

(update - the video is the correct one now with mention)

Was listening to: (the video soundtrack)
Song: "Alcohol"
Artist: Barenaked Ladies
Album: Stunt

Autobots, lets rollout.......

I saw that transformers movie the other night.

Not one of those things was a citroen.

What's that all about?

Currently Listening to:
"Lets Get Lost"
Elliot Smith
From A Basement On The Hill

(which sounds to me a lot like several Neil Young songs and "find the cost of freedom" by CSNY)

If there was a fox in there, it'll be a firefox now...

I am the god of hellfire, and i bring you...

Its that time of year again, children are drinking beer in the street and finding excuses to attack the emergency services, egged on by their parents whose asbo status would find them in the clink if they were to take action themselves.















I have little time for this festival of nonsense. There is nothing good about it. Its an excuse to behave like an ass and screw the consequence.















Here are some images of local wkd fodder in preparation.

Currently Listening to:
"I Wonder"
Artist: Blind Melon
Album: Blind Melon

Roller Hockey Tournament

The East Coast Blaze roller hockey team were hosting an event this weekend at the Valley Leisure Centre. The even was well planned, the only flaw in the setup being the DJ..... me.

I was awoken from an otherwise loverly slumber by Phil from All Hockey Gear. The conversation went like this:

Phil: Matt, how are you?
Me: Who is this?
Phil: Phil. You coming to pay us a visit?
Me: What? Where? ..........Oh, hold on, *swears* Is your tournament thing today?
Phil: Yup. You coming down?
Me: What time do you start?
Phil: 9 Minutes ago.
Me: Bugger. When does your next game start?
Phil: 20 minutes.
Me: what about the one after that?
Phil: 39 minutes?
Me: That is more realistic. Um, i'll be right there.
Phil: Don't worry buddy, have your breakfast and a coffee, we're a bit light on the ground just yet.
Me: UUgghh, right, sorry, i'll see you soon.
Phil: *Giggles* *click*

I've only slept in for a gig past its starting time once, that was a Giants game a few years ago. I slept all night and all day to the face off time of 6pm. I had been really run down, just like i've been feeling lately. This time, just like the last, i felt like a right wab. The difference is, this time, I completely forgot the gig was even happening. That hasn't really happened before.


I made it down for just past 10.30.

Jo made it down around 4pm to take pictures. The problem is the lighting is orange in there, should make for interesting photos.

We're off back tomorrow for the last day of the competition. I'll try to get there for 9!

Currently listening to:
Track: "Tumble in the rough"
Artist: Stone Temple Pilots
Album: Tiny Music... Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop

Paris Hilton...

...got out of jail yesterday, and just like that the world was a darker place.

I guess it is a bit late to start a t-shirt campaign?



Bugger.

Currently Listening to:
"I fought the law and the law won"
The Ramones

Guitar Tuning.....

I went with Nigel and Raj to check out guitars the other day.

I can't afford a new fancy guitar, so the best I can do is get a new set of strings.

Here's how I change them.....



Currently listening to:
Song: "La Cienega just smiled"
Artist: Ryan Adams
Album: Gold

POLICE, WINNING ON PENALTIES......

Eesh, It must be that time of year again.

I was driving to Coleraine to see the Armstrong clan on Thursday night, after Steria's corporate BBQ. You have to understand, I haven't seen these folks in 10 years, or there a-boots, as they now reside in Cana-dia.

Such was my excitement, rocketing towards Ulster's north coast, that I'd ignored the speed I was traveling at. Apparently it was about 86 miles an hour. Scratch that, it was EXACTLY 86 miles an hour. I know this as the kindly cop in question showed me just how he works that figure out on his radar thingie. This case of radar love, landed me 3 points and a £60 fine!

I've figured out that i get this 'temporary lapse of concentration' once or so every summer, and sometimes in the winter.

Here's to careful driving for the next 6 months till I loose some more.

Kart tastic!

Last night was the Matt McIvor challenge at Eddie Irvines's karting track. Let me explain...

Steria goes every year to this track for a bit of a social get together and friendly competition. Whoever wins the competition gets the tournament named after them next year. I won last year, so this years event was all mine!

Now, a word on that "friendly competition". In years gone past we've had people ejected from the building in the pursuit of "friendly competition". This year however, there was a thinner turnout. The key agitators were not present. Given this lack of friction I subconsciously decided to fill the gap.

On my second qualifier i was racing Simon Maynard, a fine fellow who used to work in our office.
We were heading around the fastest S bend on the track and i was travelling faster than Simon. Suddenly I found myself closed in with no where to go. Simon bit the tyre wall.

I didn't have the heart to pass, so Simon still won the race, and went on to come second in the final. I came 3rd.

Later investigation by the "experts" at Antrim Area Hospital revealed Simon has a cracked rib and severe muscle trauma. Still, he looked ok in the picture below. (sporting a white t-shirt).

You win some.......

Eek,

The people I work for have lost the contract I work on.

I have a year to find something else.

Prayer please.

M

Currently listening to:
Song: We Can Be Strong
Artist: Willy Mason
Album: If The Ocean Gets Rough

Caption competition

Please submit your comments on this:

I was thinking "Paisley in Rabbit Eating Scandal"

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/shared/spl/hi/pop_ups/07/uk_enl_1179490553/html/1.stm

Whereareya hararya?

Some beggar has registered hararya.com in the slim interval that it was available for purchase on Sunday.

I'm a little puzzled as, firstly, seeing as hararya is not even a word, who would have been waiting to snap it up? I'm a little hacked off.

Nevertheless welcome to the new and improved mattmcivor.com a place that over the next while will host all kinds of wonders and musical delights..... as soon as i create them!

Also, i should receive my new macbookpro today. I've ordered a refurbished unit from Apple. The insurance folks decided, after saying that they would replace the stolen laptop, that they won't. They gave me a cheque for £1000, but a new mac costs around £1,700. The refurb cost £1,150 so i am a little out of pocket, but i could have been worse.

Now I sit, delivery confirmation web page on screen, waiting to tell me that my shiny mac has arrived at our holywood office.

Waiting, waiting, waiting.....

Currently listening to:
Song: (antichrist television blues)
Artist: The Arcade Fire
Album: Neon Bible

hararya?

Hello hararya faithfull.

I'm about to go through a server change (tomorrow-friday), and therefore you might not find me online for a day or two, don't despair, you can still find me at http://www.hararya.blogspot.com

cheers for now

M

Facial Hair Foolin'

I decided to clear the mess of hair from my face today. But as i was going about this trimming task I decided to see how various styles would look:

Step 1 : full beard



Step 2 : Jawline



Step 3: Goat-t



Step 4: Moustache



I think i'll stick with messy. Eek.

I'm trimmed back down to normal now.

Giggidy Giggidy

Last night I opened for my friend Andy's band "catch 23" at the Rosetta bar in Belfast.

I was more than a little concerned as I thought my brand of accoustic guitar whiney nonsense would not go over well with the metal folks who i'd usually associate with that venue.



As it happens I came over quite well. I played a mix of Barenaked Ladies, Jack Johnson, Pearl Jam, Beatles and my own stuff.

I have it on good authority that they'd like me back at some point. Hooray.

Also, in other news the lovely insurance people got back to me today to confirm that I will be getting a lovely new MACBOOK PRO to replace the Powerbook G4 that was stolen from me.

I am really rather pleased about this as it is like getting the best trade in ever!

Currntly listening to:
This American Life (which is a podcast available from apple)
Chicago Public Radio
http://www.thisamericanlife.com/

Those Women Were In The Nip........!

Last night Jo, Sarah, Raj and I went to see the Barenaked Ladies a the Olympia Theatre, Dublin.

It was a bit good to say the least. Even though I was stuck with someone's head right in front of me the whole concert, leaving me leaning right or left the whole time, I very much enjoyed it.

One of the tightest and most entertainnig shows I have ever seen. (and that is saying something).

Here is a fine example of their work:

Playoffs part 2

The only cuddly thing about the Coventry Blaze is their big stuffed dragon / frog mascot. All weekend during the playoffs we have been chanting suff like "no one likes you... no one likes you" etc inventive eh?. Their mascot ventured over to our section to cheers of "who are ya?!"

The final game was a little lax. Cardiff who were an unstoppable force in the semi looked tired. Nottingham scored almost right away and that goal went unanswered till the middle of the second. The third period was mostly memorable for the giants crowd starting all sorts of chants including "we're not brazil, were northern ireland", "hands up for hanson" and "healey" (someone had a northen ireland football flag), not to forget "your ma's your da!"

It was a 1-1 hockey game with 5 mins to go. Things heated up with some handbaging and many more shots on goal but it had to go to overtime and then penalties. After a close battle nottingham triumphed.

The sheffield steelers fans left immediatly. I thought that was bad sportsmanship no their part as everyone else stayed. Still i guess it was nice for nottingham to win some silver after not doing so in their own building for quite a while, what is it now, 50 years? *sniggers*

The rest of the evening's post is being truncated in the interests of "what goes on the road, stays on the road" and potential lawsuits from offended parties.

I'll say this: there were nottingham thugs dancing, drink taken, one man getting his tackle out, some rather unexpected sweedish action and much food consumed.

'Nuff said.

On the way home we were delayed as BMIbaby were having technical issues with our flight. We bought packs of Top Trumps and battled it out till the flight was called.

Till next year gadget, next year.

Currently listening to:
"I can, I will, I do"
Barenakedladies
Barenakedladies Are Me

Goodnight "Fatty" Matty Folka

Matty Folka, who retired from ice hockey officiating a few years back due to Cancer died on thursday night.

He wasn't old, and was a lovely bloke. Dang.

Goodnight Matty.

The Playoffs

I'm in Nottingham. I've been having a really good weekend. We got here on Friday and booked into Jury's inn. They were oddly efficient, we were able to check in around 10.30.

After a lunch in squares I headed over to the arena. I've been providing a sound mix of Cool FM's Nigel Ringland and Canadian journalist Wayne Hardman for a dvd being recorded of the weekend.

Last night we went to the pit and pendulum, a goth / rock bar in town that make nice cocktails.

Breakfast in the hotel was great. Its that generic stuff but it was tasty and well cooked.

We went back to the arena today where Jo Sarah and I got access all areas passes! (much luff to the staff who didn't really need to do that, but did anyway). After about an hour of wrestling with a camera's sound inputs were were free to enjoy the first game, Cardiff V Coventry. Cardiff were successfull, much to the delight of everyone gathered.

Everything was going well until the Belfast Giants got eliminated from the competition. Dang.

They played well but were just pipped on penalties by the Nottingham Panthers.

We headed back to the hotel where Jo and I enjoyed TV and pizza. I'm currently stealing Squeek's internet access cuse he's passed out in the corner. hehehehehehe.

I have video and things to update soon, but I've nothing to edit it on.

Dang.

Sometimes Lightning Strikes Twice......

Some beggar nicked my Powerbook.

I choose to believe its a practical joke, but as time is passing i'm thinking this is less and less likely.

It was taken from last nights Belfast Giants end of season dinner. This is the laptop I run the entire show from.

I'm a little upset. Mostly because my backups are not as up to date as i'd like, partly cuse its someone in that room who has taken it, lastly cuse i'm not that sure how well insured I am, if at all.

The same thing happened about 3 or four years ago to the last one. It got stolen from my car, along with most of my worldly posessions from Belfast's delightful Sandy Row area.

I've changed my passwords and now i'm off to see how traceable it is. It is registered with apple.

Currently Listening to:
"Shelter"
Artist: Ray LaMontagne
Album: Trouble

Last night i was judging a battle of the bands competition in Carrick Baptist. There was a wide range of talent. Acoustic, punk, girl rock, joke rock and old school rock.

I have to admit that my favourite was a group of guys that played a cover of keep on rocking in a free world. They were easily my winners, but that's not how the consensus went. Girlie pink-esque rockers "sage" got the title. Dermo had nothing to do with it, though they are girls from his school. We left after the judgement pretty sharpish just in case it got ugly!

Today has been interesting with the 3 to 4 seasons in one day arrangement of weather. On my way to church this morning i was turned into a snow-matt between my house and my car. Then as soon as the snow arrived, it stopped and disappeared, then came back, then left again . . . and so on.

I tried taking some pictures, I got snow in the face trying. So here, as a consolation is my sister, Mee Lan, dancing in the snow.



:)

Voting...

Voting day was the other Wednesday. I decided to break with tradition and vote, even though there was no one worth the ever so slight wearing down of my car tires to get to the polling station. The thing about politics here, something I should make clear I know nothing about, is that the candidates are some of the strangest looking people I've ever seen.

Here are some pictures:



I think if I was deciding purely on looks, it'd probably be the green party. They look the most cuddly. They look genuinely healthy and pleasant. None of their candidates, unlike some of the more mainstream parties, had to have the light photoshop'd back into their eyes cuse it doesn't naturally reside there anymore.

Despite the fact that no one really represents me and the strange looking candidates, I decided to vote. I think it is important because not everyone has the privilege to around the world. People would die for the right to vote.

I'd like to think that I could make a difference. I see this fairytale scenario where my vote is the casting vote. If I had not voted then it would all be hung and have to be done all over again! In reality it probably matters little what I think.

/rant

While I wasn't sleeping......

....I realised my alarm clock was making faces at me.

Initially at 1:01am I thought it was making a mean face...


... but then by 1:07 I realised it was smirking....

Lazing on a sun-dy afternoon....

Another lovely rainy sunday.

This morning i went to Carrick Baptist to catch their missionary morning. After catching up with some folks and some communion I headed back home, pausing only to grab a coffee from the zoo park cafe along Carrickfergus' "dazzling" waterfront marina.

I was not aiming my hopes high for getting good coffee outside of Belfast, which was lucky really. When I asked for a take out coffee the girl behind the counter looked puzzled then had to ask a college if they 'did' take out, and if they had cups! I did get a cup, but it was polystyrene, (not paper as the rest of the civilised coffee drinking world) but it also had no hole to drink through. *sigh* Maybe I take these things too seriously. I mean, what was I doing buying a coffee on a Sunday anyway!

When I got home I started up the mac and got to levelling a few recordings i'd made of the band I play in. I can't tell you who that is for legal reasons. The exercise was to learn how to mix and master a live recording. I have this big pair of headphones that my folks got back in the seventies or early eighties somewhere. They are probably made of wood, didn't have plastic back then! They sound amazing though, and highlight every detail.

I then picked up Jo and we headed over to my folks for Sunday lunch. Mmmm, chicken.

I'm looking forward to tuesday night, its Todd Kellman's testimonial hockey game. He's retiring to become the general manager of the Belfast Giants. Everyone is chipping in and most of the folks from my office are going to make the trip. It will be great to see all the old favorites back on the Odyssey ice.

If you aren't doing anything this Tuesday 13th I recommend this testimonial game highly. It will be a blast.

Currently listening to:
Title: Fidelity
Artist: Regina Spektor

Colin Hay gig.....

Jo and I tripped down to the Black Box in Belfast's Hill Street to see the former Men at Work legend Colin Hay.

I only started to notice his solo work after his appearance in several episodes of the hit medical sitcom Scrubs, as a wandering troubadour who eventually has his guitar wrenched from his hands to be smashed on a nearby wall by Dr. Cox (John C. McGinley).

I was amused by the music that I heard but didn't make a connection between this singer and his former band, known famously for their hit "Down Under" from their debut album "Business As Usual". It was at a friends' house much later that I found out by accident who he was. Jo was playing some of Colin Hay's tracks and my friend's dad said 'that doesn't sound much like when he was in men at work!'

I had been anticipating this intimate gig, part of the Belfast-Nashville music festival for a few weeks now. Jo was especially excited as she never thought we'd actually see this guy live, never mind in Belfast.

How do you describe a Colin Hay gig? It was like going to see Billy Connelly (as, yes folks he was born in Scotland), profanity, humour and all, only each story was a well crafted build up to a song. He was charismatic, hilarious and yet down to earth and brutally honest about his rock star highs and lows. He told a story of a hotel in Australia where he held the record for the most people squeezed into the venue, then several years later the record for the fewest.

He's done ok for himself though. After some years of obscurity he had that Zack Braff assisted comeback. He lives in LA and has a house in Australia, he's done tours with Ringo Starr and Paul Carrack. But then he talks about the aftermath of playing a tour with an ex Beatle, having to drive your own band around in a crappy van, rather than enjoying a luxury jet from venue to venue. He talks about those who have had 'good careers' like Sting, then curses under his breath. He dazzles you with example after example of his obvious talent.

Jo and I met Colin after the gig. Jo got her fan-girl-ing out of the way and had her picture taken. And after a kiss on the cheek, for Jo, and of course a manly handshake for me, we were on our way home, internally jumping up and down like school children at meeting and experiencing such a character.

Busy Busy Bzzzzzz......

Currently Listening to: "Holy"
Artist: Allan Ellingsgaard
Album: Going Home

I've been a little run off my feet for the last few weeks. Lets start with Valentines' week.

I finished off a video my friend Nathan's mum filmed while on a trek from Mount Sinai to the Red Sea, realised that the flowers I ordered for Jo for Valentines' day weren't coming. The usually reliable Marks and Spencer's (who obviously had an offer on) politely e-mailed me to tell me that my delivery (which is not any ordinary delivery), could not be made as Joanne lived too far out of their delivery zone. She lives less than one mile from an M&S store.

I thought about politely telling them where to place their flowers, but then still went and bought some in store, as they are maybe the best around. They are still alive, I checked this evening.

Next was 2 nights of tech where I've found that my lecturer is still a little lacking in the enthusiasm department. I've been compensating by going to the library and reading the material myself.

Thursday I had a practice with Allan Ellingsgaard, a great Christian singer/songwriter who was releasing his debut album "Going Home". Basically when someone asks for guitar help, I'm a sucker! Practice went well.

Friday I played a "love" gig in Larne Baptist Church. The whole idea was to play 30 mins of love songs, then they explained about Christ's love for them. It was an excellent setup. I relaxed into my set after a few songs and had one of the loveliest solo gigs I've ever played. I even sang some of my own songs to a warm reception.

The weekend was a little relaxing time with Mr Fellowes during the day, then my lovely missis-to-be, Raj and Sarah for a winter BBQ and movie night at Jo's. We watched "Phone Booth", "Lost Boys" and "Flatliners". All movies had a Keifer Sutherland kick to them. Any excuse really to watch Lost Boys, a film I watched repeatedly in my formative years.

Sunday was photo taking, and a proper, wonderful, cooked to perfection Sunday roast at Raj's. (and more movies - "the Sentinel").

The last week was a blur. Setting up for "Stars In Their Eyes" with the Belfast Giants official supporters club on Monday, DJing and hosting the event on Tuesday, took it easier on Wednesday, caught up on 24 and Lost, practice with Allan on Thursday after a killer of a work day, Allan's album launch gig in Ballymena Elim on Friday. (see dermo.co.uk for some pics. You need firefox or IE7 to view properly)

Today Elia and I made a movie mockup for a Baptist Youth roadshow about mission work.

Phew!

This week is exciting enough because not only are we going to see Colin Hay, formerly of Men at Work - 'we come from a land down under.....' but also Tuesday brings Dave Matthews to Belfast's Waterfront Hall. I have tickets!

I have been wanting to see Dave Matthews in concert since I was 16. It has only taken 11 years.

Well, to bed now as I really am not getting enough sleep.

Sick, Idol and gigs..

So, since Tuesday afternoon when I realised I wasn't feeling exactly 100% I've been asleep 90% of the time. I drove myself home at about 3.30pm on Tuesday afternoon and went straight to bed. I stayed there till pretty much this afternoon. Bless.

Daytime tv is a government initiative to get you back to work. Ok, we have cable, but there is nothing on all 900 channels during the day that will help the misery. There is only so much "Tricia" a man can watch before he loses the will to live.

American Idol. Holy cow. It is great to know that Americans are still the most stupid and gullible people on the planet. They've all been told since they were kids that they are special. They believe it. I understand that parents are supposed to be encouraging and build up their kids, and that is a great thing, but when a contestant who can't sing a note is told so by the likes of Simon Cowell and says something like 'Oh, thats your opinion' or 'who are you to tell me that i can't sing?' I must laugh. Actually I was just watching as a mum, so outraged that her daughter didn't get through, stormed back into the audition room and told the judges off! classic.

I don't know anyone who watches the whole competition, just the auditions.

Anyhow, had some fun recently, went to see Peter Mulvey in Dublin. (click the link and listen to some samples.). If you've never heard of this guy he's well worth the listen. From Michigan in the US of A, Mr Mulvey has several fantastic albums of acoustic mastery and social commentary. He is an accomplished songster with a jazzy edge. If anyone is interested, I'll certainly pass some of his stuff on.

He comes here about 3 times a year, usually to Dublin and thereabouts. Young Raj introduced me to him a few years ago, and though I really enjoyed his albums, there is nothing like seeing this guy live. There is such energy about his performances, just one guy one guitar fills the room. Hopefully we'll have Peter in Belfast soon.

Well, I gotta go pass out now. I'll update again soon.

M

I got an Iphone!!!!!

And you can have one too...

Click Here

There is much to update, coming soon.

Also, this just in: Rick and Katie have just taken delivery of a bundle of joy! The most recent Allen family member is Ruben Joseph Allen born at lunch time today.

Fergoodnessake Ruben, hararya?

Will it blend?

FIND OUT HERE what happens when you put things in a blender

OR HERE for what happens when you put pucks in.

Ham on the Road......

Jo passed her driving test last friday!

Abandon hope, all ye who drive in the Greater Belfast area.

Actually she is doing quite well and has been out the odd time by herself. Who's a big grown up girl. When she went out for her first solo drive I didn't tell her mum till she was away a good half hour, and I took down their Christmas tree so I wouldn't have to worry for a time.

All worked well though, there ain't no stopping her now.

I've still not heard back from the phone folks. Damn their eyes. I keep seeing picture/video opportunities, reach for my trusty capture device only to be dissapointed when it isn't there.


Also, happy 1st Birthday young Caleb, hararya?

M


Currently listening to:
Track: "For You"
Artist: Barenaked Ladies
Album: Everything to Everyone