perspective

tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35710852011-12-09T09:19:01.979ZperspectiveA blog from Edinburgh, Scotland.Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.comBlogger13441100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-3107535429760285182011-11-30T16:51:00.001Z2011-11-30T16:51:52.907ZN30 Strike, Edinburgh Demo

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } N30 Strike, Edinburgh Demo, originally uploaded by alister. Perspective not dead? Not quite despite the lure of social media. Pics from the N30 strike. http://flic.kr/s/aHsjx4HJLR

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-27185098152258350712011-06-05T21:36:00.003+01:002011-06-05T21:41:01.660+01:00#spanishrevolution hits Edinburgh

Spain and Greece already have mass youth unemployment and now they face austerity cuts. The same cuts we face here in Scotland. Spanish and Greek youth have taken to the streets of Edinburgh in solidarity with the mass protests in their countries. Scots take note.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-77148966155961025012011-05-26T21:03:00.001+01:002011-05-26T21:03:31.711+01:00First morning of SNP majority government in Edinburgh

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } First morning of SNP majority government in Edinburgh, originally uploaded by alister. I have a feeling we may have a bit more to say about this in the years and months to come.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-34790959377123997422011-03-27T18:06:00.002+01:002011-03-27T19:11:21.016+01:00London

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } RIP, originally uploaded by alister. I joined the 450, 000 who marched in the streets of London to defend public services and oppose the ConDem cuts. A good humoured family day out for ordinary workers. It was the biggest

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-5847724398482545052011-03-07T20:56:00.003Z2011-03-07T21:09:03.489ZSame Shit, Different W

As British workers prepare for what promises to be a gargantuan rally in London on March 26th, inspiration is coming from some surprising areas. Sure, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Greece. But the USA? You bet, the USA. Workers in Madison, Wisconsin are engaged in an epic struggle with their anti-union Governor.Here are a couple of great youtube clips. First up Michael Moore, then a nice toon.The Title

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-26354888157645781922011-02-14T22:31:00.001Z2011-02-14T22:33:03.564ZA is for Alienation

Nice blog from the Socialist Cephalopod on the Hetherington occupation."Something that in my opinion is absolutely crucial to the success of what we’ve done so far is the non-commercial nature of the operation. When you come in the door of the Free Hetherington you realise straight away that this is different from the other student unions and surrounding West End pubs. When you come here, no one

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-10160426050669252572011-02-07T20:17:00.004Z2011-02-07T20:27:44.414ZCollate, Collaborate, Struggle

The revolutions in Egypt and Tunisia are, I would argue, revitalising the struggle in this country against cuts. From council workers opposing redundancies to families speaking out against the closure of vital services (I include libraries in this category of course) the Tories are in for a year of resistance. There is a great article on the Newsnight blog from Paul Mason analysing the situation.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-51760546869428981912011-02-04T21:49:00.001Z2011-02-04T21:51:35.074ZThe Arab Revolution

Cool poster, inspiring events.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-56935997619670667082011-02-04T21:44:00.002Z2011-02-04T21:47:44.493ZRestless and Native

Good lord, I haven't updated this blog for ages. Never mind, go read the great new film blog from Embra City, Namby Pamby Pish, the name a reference to the great movie Restless Natives of course.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-77912438430714239942010-12-09T22:15:00.004Z2010-12-09T22:20:39.575ZBeneath the Paving Stones, the Beach

Amazing to see the radicalism and fight of the students, the shadow of the defeats of the Thatcher years is lifting. Interesting too that these youth remember the lessons of those years with many quoting the miners strike.The scene from London:The scene from Edinburgh:The numbers of young school students involved also an inspiration. Many of them from the poorest parts of London who have faced

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-25610009536760081172010-12-08T22:49:00.001Z2010-12-08T22:49:59.288ZWanking Bankers

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-732346414198078642010-11-29T15:03:00.000Z2010-11-29T15:03:26.259ZCaptain SKA - Liar Liar

Sounds like a good tune for xmas no.1.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-85620517727573120582010-11-20T19:26:00.001Z2010-11-20T19:26:41.119ZEverything Is Going To Be Alright

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-87725720577062716162010-11-11T19:44:00.003Z2010-11-11T19:46:47.620ZRIP Blogging?

Is blogging dead? It might appear to be from hanging around here. But I think Warren Ellis has got it about right."The death of blogging. Which is a thing people are talking about. When any medium starts getting “the death of…” articles, it doesn’t mean the medium in question is dying, so much as that people are bored with it and are looking for the next thing. And while they were looking for

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-85376296602446258852010-10-24T16:32:00.001+01:002010-10-24T16:32:43.954+01:00More Demo Pics

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-35354181985490157222010-10-24T16:10:00.001+01:002010-10-24T16:10:45.595+01:00Bastards!

"Bastards!" A remarkable show see's chat show host Paul O'Grady take on the condem cuts

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-10799980799541699772010-10-23T23:29:00.001+01:002010-10-23T23:29:39.298+01:00Society?

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Intellectual Placard 1, originally uploaded by alister. The most intellectual placard I have ever seen on a demo. Great turnout as 20, 000 took to the streets to protest against the cuts in Edinburgh.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-31189593002346207552010-09-18T10:05:00.001+01:002010-09-18T10:05:38.592+01:00And You Thought British Trots Were Weird

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Arlette Laguiller (Lutte Ouvrière), originally uploaded by looking4poetry. From the nation of France and the strange world of Trotskyists, or at least some Trotskyists comes this tale. Lutte Ouvrière is a French trotskyist

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-13565692025296477422010-08-29T09:28:00.002+01:002010-08-29T09:31:33.040+01:00Alan Moore at the Edinburgh Book Festival

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Alan Moore signing, originally uploaded by alister. Last week saw the appearance at the Edinburgh Book Festival of the arch-mage and Lord Protector of Northampton himself, Mr Alan Moore. The last time I 'met' Mr Moore was

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-89554958569137272362010-08-21T17:37:00.001+01:002010-08-21T17:37:39.095+01:00Open source cola

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-30537378866474101822010-08-05T20:28:00.001+01:002010-08-05T20:28:56.857+01:00Shirty

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Underdog 7", originally uploaded by Miserabile T-shirt. This flickr stream is nothing but old punk and metal t-shirts. Cool.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-92012388461635539042010-07-16T19:20:00.002+01:002010-07-16T19:27:15.529+01:00The Streets of Cleveland are Silent

I've been meaning to write something about the passing of Harvey Pekar. Time to do it, Harvey was certainly one for documenting his life. I had the pleasure to meet Harvey when he spoke at the Edinburgh Film Festival several years ago. I wrote about it here. He seemed like a genuinely decent guy, although undoubtedly an eccentric. He had a keen sense of social justice that he stayed true to, even

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-59528321051972043152010-07-11T09:02:00.001+01:002010-07-11T09:02:56.125+01:00Hawk in a tight spot

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Hawk in a tight spot, originally uploaded by alister. In between these guys heads you will see a hawk flying. Part of a falconry display at Linlithgow Palace. The local seagulls were gathering in mobs to chase off the birds

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-4217128919241402192010-06-28T21:49:00.002+01:002010-06-28T21:52:00.383+01:00Maradona

What a guy. Come on Argentina.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-18685952193686334512010-06-23T20:30:00.002+01:002010-06-23T20:33:44.974+01:00Get some culture

New culture novel from Iain (M) Banks. Out October 2010.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-14046782513322607972010-06-19T23:27:00.004+01:002010-06-19T23:32:15.167+01:00Ar-gen-tina

Not only are Argentina the best team in the world cup, they are the most socially conscious (although Algeria did watch Battle of Algiers before the game with England and dedicated the result to the people of Palestine). They are backing the candidacy of the Mothers of the Disappeared (who campaign for victims of the fascist 'dirty war' in Argentina) for the Nobel prize. More here.Also Maradona

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-46885326866785298392010-06-05T22:29:00.001+01:002010-06-05T22:29:19.661+01:00Gaza demo

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Demonstrators, originally uploaded by alister. A great turnout today in the stifling heat to demonstrate in Edinburgh against the appalling murder of activists from the freedom flotilla trying to break the illegal blockade

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-30278840772198452852010-06-05T22:26:00.000+01:002010-06-05T22:26:32.283+01:00Gaza Solidarity Demo, Edinburgh

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-23985764054609339522010-06-05T09:06:00.001+01:002010-06-05T09:06:15.602+01:00Teenage Fanclub

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Teenage Fanclub, originally uploaded by alister. Great gig as ever from Teenage Fanclub on Thursday night in Edinburgh. Also enjoyed the support act Veronica Falls. Main problem was the sound which was muddy and seemed to

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-83626452420727130862010-05-27T20:23:00.001+01:002010-05-27T20:24:52.429+01:00One of Menie

Remember the campaign against Donald Trump and his Aberdeenshire development? There has been an interesting new development.the Bunker - one of Menie from Adam Proctor on Vimeo.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-2011153098140161982010-05-21T20:03:00.000+01:002010-05-21T20:04:55.992+01:00Saved

News is that the Gorgie Memorial Hall is to be saved. Brilliant news.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-81910062284861775002010-05-13T22:17:00.002+01:002010-05-13T22:19:29.646+01:00No Further Comment Needed

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-11166525752393983452010-05-07T17:26:00.000+01:002010-05-07T17:26:56.196+01:00Scottish Socialist Youth confront nazi's at Glasgow count

And kudos to Margaret Curran for walking off and refusing to share a platform with the BNP.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-61173528797023932082010-05-06T21:16:00.001+01:002010-05-06T21:16:16.866+01:00Election Day

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } election-day, originally uploaded by alister. Scotland on a knife edge? Wouldn't have thought so, more likely a safe labour majority in Scotland tonight and probably a dissappointment for the SNP who will be squeezed in the

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-55855233217452997172010-04-28T17:54:00.003+01:002010-04-28T18:22:26.951+01:00Save Gorgie Memorial Hall

Picture: Gorgie Mem campaigners at SSP public meetingI lived for many years in Gorgie, a working class neighbourhood in the West of Edinburgh. It always had a mix of residents. There were those who had been there for generations, many of whom made up the hard core support for local team Heart of Midlothian.There were also those who had recently moved in or were only there temporarily. Relatively

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-17242131936512627582010-04-27T22:31:00.002+01:002010-04-27T22:36:33.446+01:00Pax Britannica

Amusing spat as Paxman comes up against Plaid Cymru economist

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-76920263402936839222010-04-18T15:09:00.002+01:002010-04-18T15:13:09.029+01:00Now this is an awesome library

In Stockholm. Via @glinner

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-54825271925783332752010-04-11T16:03:00.001+01:002010-04-11T16:03:42.091+01:00Which Joker will win?

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Vote or die, originally uploaded by alister. It's election time again! Whichever joker wins we lose! As a public sector worker I am anticipating big cuts to come. The NHS and local government will be cut to the bone. The

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-43417771931314397462010-04-05T21:19:00.001+01:002010-04-05T21:19:36.674+01:00Recession

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-51426230013510037522010-03-29T20:13:00.001+01:002010-03-29T20:13:38.583+01:00Daily Mail Song

Awesome.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-83174820293183016982010-03-18T20:54:00.001Z2010-03-18T20:54:40.385ZStross, Macleod and Wilson

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Stross, Macleod and Wilson, originally uploaded by alister. Charlie Stross, Ken Macleod and Andrew Wilson. Three of the top Scottish resident sci-fi authors who appeared last night at a Blackwells launch for Ken Macleod's

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-11049367080526629132010-03-13T15:29:00.003Z2010-03-13T15:32:38.484ZMine is bigger than yours

Todays anti-Trident demo in Edinburgh. Why are we spending billions on Trident when we are cutting local services? More nursery nurses, fewer submariners.Anyway, Neil's video and a slight case of banner envy.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-7231118328040541962010-03-08T21:26:00.003Z2010-03-08T21:27:49.174ZSkidsremarks

The Skids also did a great cover version of Castles in Spain by the Armoury Show, Jobson's post-Skids band. I half expected a Big Country tune, but it was not to be.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-17148573294836598192010-03-07T22:54:00.005Z2010-03-07T23:12:28.178ZBack Into the Valley

The Skids, Dunfermline Alhambra Theatre. March 6th 2010.Another comeback for the Skids this time as part of the Fifer Festival and the culmination of a weeks celebration of the works of Richard Jobson, as unlikely as that may seem. The Alhambra is a lovely venue, plenty of space and a good stage, facilities and sound system unlike many others.The band did not dissappoint the hordes of fans, many

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-85048513779036603432010-03-05T20:47:00.002Z2010-03-05T20:58:43.123ZDance! Dance! Dance!

Joy Division Oven Gloves. Previously this enigmatic phrase was only understood by a select few Half Man Half Biscuit fans. The track from their classic album Achtung Bono exemplified their witty tunes.Yet as I write, the phrase Joy Division Oven Gloves is the top trending topic in the UK on the micro-blogging site Twitter. Why? Because BBC 6 Music DJ Gideon Coe played it on his breakfast show

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-30858420675137790542010-03-02T20:15:00.000Z2010-03-02T20:16:11.949ZKick Out the Tories

Something for us to sing in a couple of months.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-61314920499025484912010-02-27T12:01:00.002Z2010-02-27T12:01:48.484ZI Put a Spell on You

Yay, Shane MacGowan, Nick Cave and friends team up for Haiti.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-64945862053687108352010-02-20T18:11:00.001Z2010-02-20T18:11:17.550ZBlack and White Unite and Fight

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Black and White Unite and Fight, originally uploaded by alister. Rally against the far-right EDL/SDL in Edinburgh today. Fascists were eventually holed up in a pub all day and then bussed out of town. Another failure for

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-85693750485986408302010-02-16T20:02:00.000Z2010-02-16T20:03:11.310ZWaiting for the Great Leap Forward

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-19188762822745309962010-02-14T21:43:00.000Z2010-02-14T21:44:13.114ZDays Like These

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-53553756785162428182010-02-13T22:34:00.003Z2010-02-13T22:44:59.979ZBilly Bragg RBS Protest

Billy Bragg brought his campaign against bonuses for Royal Bank of Scotland to Edinburgh today. His speech castigated poverty and inequality and attacked politicians who have done nothing to address these issues. Yet he exuded the "sweet moderation" he sang of in Between the Wars. A little too moderate for my tastes but kudos to him nonetheless for sticking it to the bankers.There is some video

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-60565832842547835992010-02-09T20:53:00.002Z2010-02-09T20:57:17.215ZTalking to the Taxman about Poetry

Billy Bragg will be taking his campaign against the massive bonuses issued by the RBS to the streets of Edinburgh on Saturday 13th February. Had a great discussion at the SSP educational weekend Socialism 2010 on Saturday about the state of the economy. Most of the 'profits' that are being paid out right now are based on speculation and low interest rates and are widely predicted to vanish very

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-37386846315371456702010-01-31T20:42:00.002Z2010-01-31T20:45:21.870ZEton Mess

The Dave posters near me just have "lies" and "end London rule" sprayed on them. More greatness here. Via Inveresk Street.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-46243179011697969502010-01-26T20:37:00.005Z2010-01-26T20:47:49.483ZThe Bands Played Waltzing Matilda

It's Australia Day. There are lots of reasons to have reservations about that, if you are a lefty Australian (they call it 'Invasion Day'). But for me it is a good excuse to celebrate my love of Australian music. I don't know what it is, but I have always had a thing for Aussie bands.The Triffids and the Go-Betweens are both favourite bands of mine. 'Born Sandy Devotional' and '16 Lovers Lane'

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-10271454361860153642010-01-11T21:13:00.001Z2010-01-11T21:13:19.591ZIce Ice Baby

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Pentlands Winter Panorama, originally uploaded by alister. Kind of glad the snow is melting, but it did look pretty good this weekend!

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-54802281657746250632010-01-09T09:35:00.003Z2010-01-09T09:45:02.159ZFrontline Out Now

I am the editor of Frontline magazine, a socialist journal from Scotland. The new issue is out now on the web and the print edition will be out soon.Read it here.Here is my editorial for this issue.A Question of IndependenceScotland’s unionist parties – Labour, the Tories and the Lib-Dems – put up a united front when First Minister Alex Salmond brought forward his proposals for a referendum on

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-65462686293499188222009-12-21T20:18:00.003Z2009-12-21T20:21:34.690ZAn Xmas Card For You!

Here is a card just for you. Any similarity to the First Minister's official 'tomorrow belongs to me' card is purely coincidental.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-26819726060941093272009-12-16T21:25:00.001Z2009-12-16T21:25:29.166ZIain Banks

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Iain Banks, originally uploaded by alister. Iain Banks appearing at Edinburgh Central Library talking about his new novel Transition. Lacking the 'M' in the authors name which is usually used to denote one of his sci-fi

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-10642141066714776532009-12-14T20:57:00.001Z2009-12-14T20:57:26.149ZHugo Gutiérrez

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Hugo Gutiérrez, originally uploaded by alister. Hugo Gutiérrez has been elected as the first Communist senator in Chile since the Pinochet coup. I met Hugo a few years ago and interviewed him for the Scottish Socialist

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-33516442436387938062009-12-11T18:57:00.000Z2009-12-11T18:58:20.430ZFeckin' TD's

You've got to love the standard of debate in the Irish Parliament.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-37396783023513838492009-12-05T15:26:00.005Z2009-12-05T16:06:45.590ZJingle Bell Overdose.

My pals over at the great Jock 'n' Roll website are looking for nominations for the best and worst Christmas songs. My hunt for my favourite reminded me of how many great Christmas tunes there are out there. Don't worry, they are not restricted to Scottish tunes this time.Here is my top ten as of this moment but subject to change at any time. This post sponsored by YouTube, where you really can

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-89178209626863392912009-11-29T22:23:00.001Z2009-11-29T22:23:31.662ZPrinces Street Reopens

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Princes Street Reopens, originally uploaded by alister. Buses back on Princes Street for a month or so to enable you all to consume more over Xmas in a pleasant environment.Pic shows Tram workers posing for a celebratory

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-72578184705676691732009-11-25T20:47:00.004Z2009-11-25T21:11:39.522ZTramtastic

There is a new way to see how late your bus will be due to weather/new driver not turning up/trams that is the EdinBus app for iPhone. Read the story at Greener Leith.Meanwhile buses are set to return to Princes Street for the Xmas shopping binge. The Evening News quotes council leader Jenny Dawes being fairly upbeat "Walking along Princes Street I hear a lot of comments about trams. Before, the

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-56749944038251254442009-11-22T16:56:00.003Z2009-11-22T17:07:29.820ZGreen wash

Edinburgh councillors have not had their worries to seek. Bin strikes, tram delays, the collapse of the property market, cuts in money from central government looming. But the ruling SNP/liberal coalition and their Labour and Tory rivals have not faced a great onslaught from the Greens who have only three.In Brighton however things are a little different and in the face of a growing Green vote

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-21878717096098654752009-11-19T21:13:00.003Z2009-11-19T21:29:21.478ZPut the Kettle Off

Regarding other NATO protests in Edinburgh, have had some updates from someone studying the post-Tomlinson policing effort. After ploughshares activists were arrested for non-violent direct action there was a clampdown. The city was under a section 60 all weekend anyway. Activists, many of them elderly, protesting at a speech of the NATO secretary-general at Edinburgh University were kettled. One

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-20444178439384991462009-11-18T22:39:00.001Z2009-11-18T22:39:15.027ZHomework Robot

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Homework Robot, originally uploaded by alister. Liked this add for the Positive About Science campaign stenciled or otherwise stuck on somehow to the pavements outside my local school. There were two variants I spotted. The

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-65003248289739994582009-11-14T18:39:00.003Z2009-11-14T18:52:23.374ZTroops Out Demo

The NATO summit being held in Edinburgh has attracted a number of protests. The low turnout at some seems to be a direct result of the cloak and dagger tactics of the organisers. One friend reports an attempt to attend a demo on Friday, he was told to await a text, and also given a number where a message would be left giving details of the protest. He waited in a cafe, but half an hour before the

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-31817490645722807682009-11-08T20:28:00.002Z2009-11-08T20:39:30.222ZNo Easy Way Down

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Mark Eitzel, originally uploaded by alister. Live, Edinburgh Cabaret Voltaire, Saturday 7th November.Mark Eitzel's return to Edinburgh saw him on absolutely phenomenal form. I think he really is better than he has ever been

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-59207222882267906922009-11-05T21:42:00.001Z2009-11-05T21:45:11.128ZRemember, remember.

Was looking for this graphic all night. Found it at the Forbidden Planet blog.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-2830016619680565912009-11-03T21:34:00.002Z2009-11-04T19:41:27.274ZThe Unthanks

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } The Unthanks, originally uploaded by alister. Saw the Unthanks live at Edinburgh Voodoo Rooms, 26th October 2009. They are the fine folkies previously known as Rachel Unthank and the Winterset whom I reviewed here. There

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-20157483744842961052009-10-30T21:20:00.003Z2009-10-30T21:39:25.221ZWe're No' Payin'

This weekend if you are in Edinburgh and have a spare couple of hours you should get down to the wonderful Out of the Blue in Leith. For this weekend is the annual Edinburgh Independent Radical Book Fair. There are some great speakers, tons of books, posters, papers and zines to buy and a fantastic exhibition to view.I went down on Wednesday night to check out the opening of the exhibition which

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-7373563862079261682009-10-25T23:05:00.001Z2009-10-25T23:05:41.263ZMonty Python's Holy Ail

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Monty Python's Holy Ail, originally uploaded by alister. Purchased at Doune Castle which of course was also Castle Anthrax in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Delicious it was too.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-76659123976591472192009-10-21T20:44:00.005+01:002009-10-21T21:38:11.766+01:00Tram Trouble

Interesting article on the leftbanker blog analysing the financial crisis as it is affecting Edinburgh. The Guardian had a similar piece a couple of Saturdays ago, however leftbanker goes into much more financial detail based on new revelations from the council.Leftbanker points out that there are likely to be big cuts in revenue from central government because of the billions spent on the bank

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-34455978363694335212009-10-20T20:10:00.003+01:002009-10-20T20:22:31.210+01:00Waltzer the Softy

I love the internet. I love blogs, forums, tweets and even regular old websites. But there is still something magical about the written word printed on paper and lovingly bound for your delight. The smell of fresh ink on paper, can't see me sniffing a kindle somehow. So great news that the Greatest Living Englishman Alan Moore is bringing out a new magazine in November. Dodgem Logic sounds from

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-9865525779120251402009-10-19T21:10:00.001+01:002009-10-19T21:10:59.950+01:00Doune Castle

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Doune Castle, originally uploaded by alister. As well as the smallest member of my family wielding the family Valyrian blade you can see a film crew setting up the castle for its part in the HBO adaptation of George R. R

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-53411319405895725792009-10-05T22:09:00.001+01:002009-10-05T22:09:25.774+01:00In memoriam, Mercedes Sosa, Managua, 1983

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-69695846850688488152009-09-21T19:42:00.001+01:002009-09-21T19:45:20.999+01:00Blogifications

New blogifications to illuminate the nations.Get ready for the Glasgow North East by-election.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-35970345447652657172009-09-15T19:32:00.005+01:002009-09-15T19:36:35.904+01:00To the barricades! New Frontline out

The new issue of Frontline magazine is out. Get it here. Some great articles, particularily the couple on Scottish gypsy travellers and the one on green capitalism.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-60982710225148847002009-09-01T21:25:00.001+01:002009-09-01T21:25:18.142+01:00Jeffrey Lewis and the Junkyard Band

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 1600, originally uploaded by alister. It's nice to have Edinburgh back after the festival although the post-fringe streets are rather melancholy and rainswept. Amidst the box kickers we made our way to see Jeffrey Lewis and

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-18929947367110789412009-08-16T18:58:00.001+01:002009-08-16T18:58:56.464+01:00Going Fast

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-28249083142178155772009-06-18T21:07:00.002+01:002009-06-18T21:12:16.422+01:00Value for Taxpayer's Money

MP's Expenses Spotting The lesser-spotted Eton Albatross, George Osborne:"In 2005, the Conservative shadow chancellor claimed £47 for two copies of a DVD of his own speech on 'Value for Taxpayers Money'."

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-77831256790423718082009-06-10T22:45:00.003+01:002009-06-10T22:52:46.650+01:00Concrete Jungle

Depressing news from the Euro elections. The far right and nazi nutters saw a drop in votes but a reduced turnout meant they got a bigger share of the vote and MEP's elected. We need the Specials at a time like this. And lo, they will come to Edinburgh in November.T-shirt from Philosophy Football. See also Fred Perry Specials shirts.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-48900119110213073652009-06-10T20:39:00.001+01:002009-06-10T20:39:12.105+01:00We Were Promised Jetpacks

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } We Were Promised Jetpacks, originally uploaded by alister. Live at Edinburgh Cabaret Voltaire, June 9th 2009.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-82448145432144352262009-05-20T09:56:00.001+01:002009-05-20T09:56:02.686+01:00Irvine Welsh

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-44488074951313802992009-05-03T21:30:00.001+01:002009-05-03T21:30:47.399+01:00Message from the old town

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-30924636233561077292009-05-01T10:52:00.002+01:002009-05-01T10:54:30.594+01:00Je lis La Princesse de Clèves

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Je lis La Princesse de Clèves, originally uploaded by Breff. After French President Sarkozy criticised the French classic La Princesse de Clèves, which is a standard of school and civil service exams, the book has become a

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-36223985367537396632009-04-27T10:13:00.002+01:002009-04-27T10:17:10.192+01:00Ginger Whinger

Is this the most loathsome advert for a book signing you have ever seen?"Meet Gerri HalliwellPlease note that Geri Halliwell will only be signing copies of her Ugenia Lavender series. Please arrive early to avoid disappointment. The duration of the signing is discretional."I wonder if armies of fans clutching copies of the Spice World DVD left disappointed?

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-28740830724107445182009-04-15T17:27:00.001+01:002009-04-15T17:27:37.323+01:00Primal Scream: Screamadelica

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Primal Scream: Screamadelica, originally uploaded by Littlepixel™. Great set on flickr of album covers as Penguin novels.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-67975181447332159192009-04-14T18:02:00.003+01:002009-04-14T18:07:12.726+01:00It abounds, the splodgeness

Definitely a blast from the past. Splodgenessabounds played a comeback gig in Edinburgh to a crowd of punks 'n' skins of a certain vintage. I saw the series with that fool from Kiss, Rock School I think, and Max Splodge was his chaffeur. He lost favour somewhat when he mentioned the Splodge had more chart success in the UK than Kiss did. More recently they have developed an obsession with Ghengis

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-41465510099437870102009-04-07T14:11:00.003+01:002009-04-07T14:15:32.944+01:00Schools Out

Parents in Glasgow are going into occupation of a school over the Easter break in protest at the proposed closure of a series of schools and nurseries across the city. The bailout of the banks will need to be paid for and that will mean big cuts in public spending. Expect to see more fightbacks like this in the future. We need to draw a line in the sand and say no more.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-47284539577595858422009-04-03T12:42:00.002+01:002009-04-03T12:45:53.495+01:00Genius

Via Father Ted's very own Graham Linehan.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-12677050108848758132009-03-30T19:21:00.001+01:002009-03-30T19:21:24.344+01:00Machrie Moor

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Machrie Moor, originally uploaded by alister. Author Warren was kind enough to blog one of my photos of Machrie Moor on Arran, a magnificent neolithic site. I prefer this one though.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-51346121879813924742009-03-26T10:25:00.005Z2009-03-26T10:44:08.563ZIt's the Stupid Economy

I've recommended this before but maybe not on this blog. Mark Thomas is doing a series of podcasts on the economy which are well worth listening to with interviews with various people. Listening to one with Paul Mason just now and he namechecked the LPYS so that can't be bad.http://www.markthomasinfo.com/section_audiovideo/podcast.xmlAs refreshing as the air conditioning in Fred Goodwins house.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-73502262134999302242009-03-24T09:51:00.003Z2009-03-24T10:01:07.612ZCaltongate=Fail

This recession/depression is having many different effects most of them bad. Occassionally however there is a silver lining. Yesterday property developers Mountgrange were declared insolvent. This means that their plan to redevelop parts of Edinburgh's old town is almost certainly dead. The plan meant social housing being removed to make way for 5-star hotels and retail opportunities. Yeah,

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-54382483798774024802009-03-18T17:51:00.001Z2009-03-18T17:51:07.576ZBlack Star

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-86886764091277372812009-03-13T18:41:00.002Z2009-03-13T18:43:11.879ZWatched the etc...

Saw Watchmen today. The critics didn't like it but I thought it was enjoyable if flawed. Standout performance for me was Moloch, pictured above in Clay Enos' Watchmen photo book.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-28215220990087161572009-03-06T10:30:00.001Z2009-03-06T10:30:48.606ZYou're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } The Complete Peanuts 1971-1972 (Vol. 11) by Charles M. Schulz - detail, originally uploaded by fantagraphics. Hurray for Peanuts.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-68842165422846648392009-03-02T23:04:00.001Z2009-03-02T23:04:26.873ZFirst Minister promotes Homecoming Scotland 2009 Whisky Month

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } First Minister promotes Homecoming Scotland 2009 Whisky Month, originally uploaded by Scottish Government. In other news, Scottish Government launches campaign against alcohol abuse.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-56482261746092301052009-03-01T09:30:00.001Z2009-03-01T09:31:55.843ZHappy St. David's Day!

And what better way to celebrate the national day of Wales than with this awesome clip.

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3571085.post-86411841535915173892009-02-25T16:20:00.003Z2009-02-25T16:27:47.623ZScumbag Millionaires

Gotta love the new t-shirt from Philosophy Football!

Alisterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14333322780986562771noreply@blogger.com0