Monthly Archives: September 2013

The reality of graduate unemployment

Posted on September 28, 2013 by

A parent writes to the Times [£]: I have yet to hear any of the political party conferences say something positive about youth unemployment, especially about graduates. They seem to have been forgotten, with almost 19 per cent of graduates … Continue reading →

Posted in UK politics

A classic in the making

Posted on September 25, 2013 by

I think I may  have heard my album of the year. My Sunday Times review is here [£].

Posted in Music

Introducing Tobuscus

Posted on September 25, 2013 by

No, I’d never heard of him either. Thoughtful piece by the LRB’s Jenny Turner on children and the Internet: I’ve been watching Tobuscus for a while now, not because I think he’s good – I can’t stand him – but … Continue reading →

Posted in Technology

A Gallic twist

Posted on September 23, 2013 by

Stacey Kent’s fine new album, “The Changing Lights”, has an unmistakeable flavour of Brazil and bossa nova. It’s not the first time, though, that she’s delved into the Antonio Carlos Jobim songbook: “Les Eaux de Mars”, recorded a couple of years … Continue reading →

Posted in Brazil, Music, Uncategorized

Notebook

Posted on September 22, 2013 by

I grew up in the suburbs of Baltimore… My generation makes fun of the suburbs and the shopping malls, the TV commercials and the sitcoms that we grew up with – but they’re part of us too. So our ironic … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized

Magical MIMO

Posted on September 21, 2013 by

My Times review of the MIMO festival in Olinda: If one moment summed up the spirit of this festival, it came during the spellbinding concert by the Coltranesque saxophonist Carlos Malta. In the stunning if less than pristine Baroque setting … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized

Almost a religious painting

Posted on September 20, 2013 by

George Harrison writing autographs for fans, London, 1964.  [Via @historicalpics]

Posted in Music, Photography

The future of politics, circa 1970

Posted on September 19, 2013 by

Reflecting on David Frost’s death the other day, comedy critic Bruce Dessau made a passing reference to “The Rise and Rise of Michael Rimmer”, a film I’ve never actually seen:  “Some said the lead character, a ruthless ex-advertising man-turned-politician, had more … Continue reading →

Posted in Comedy, Film, Politics, UK politics

Modern meanings

Posted on September 18, 2013 by

Droll, would-be lexicographer Teju Cole updates Flaubert, Ambrose Bierce and Doctor Johnson. Some examples of his handiwork: INTERNET. A waste of time. Have a long online argument with anyone who disagrees. JAZZ. America’s classical music. The last album was released … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized

Wide-eyed in Olinda

Posted on September 17, 2013 by
Image | Posted on September 17, 2013 by