In honor of the day (09/09/09), here’s a list of my top 9 favorite rock acts to come out of the UK (in no particular order). The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin get a free pass on this one, because really, it just wouldn’t be fair to take up these coveted spots.
Queen – Watch any live performance and try to tell me Freddie Mercury was not the most talented male rock vocalist ever. It doesn’t hurt that the band’s guitarist is a genius- literally. In October 2007 Brian May completed his Ph.D. thesis in astrophysics.
The Who – Come on, how could they not be on this list? The Who not only rocked (and still rock) harder than any band out there, but smashed gear and blew up drums with more efficiency than most small armies.
The Kinks – Recently, I discovered the great album We Are The Village Green. If you haven’t heard it, you should go get it right now.
Pink Floyd – Ever heard Piper at the Gates of Dawn, Meddle, Darkside of the Moon, Wish You Were Here or The Wall? Don’t tell anyone if the answer is no! Run to the nearest music collection of anyone that isn’t you and listen to any/all these albums.
The Clash – London Calling is one of the best albums ever recorded, and it’s a great way to get turned on to the sweet mix of reggae, punk, ska that is the politically charged rock band, The Clash.
David Bowie – From Ziggy Stardust to Aladdin Sane- whatever you want to call him, there’s no denying his presence, humor and genius. Who doesn’t love the Labyrinth?
Elvis Costello – Aside from being a smart, talented songwriter, few people know he produced some of the Pogues’ best albums.
Elton John – We forgive him for all his Disney soundtracks, because Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is so good.
Radiohead – Having grown up in the 90’s, I am obligated to include them on this list, and to own a copy of OK Computer.
Okay, I know I probably left off your favorite band, so let’s hear it. Who did I not put on this list that deserved it? Who should I have left off? When you travel to London, or anywhere else in the UK for that matter, what bands do you hope to see live?
The Eurovision song contest is a unique competition held annually. Each member country of the European Broadcasting Union submits a song to be performed live in front of an audience, and broadcast on television. Then, the citizens get to vote and choose their favorite. Seeing as how it started in 1956, you can’t say they stole any ideas from American Idol! This year the contest was held in Moscow, Russia and the winner was Norway’s Alexander Rybak, and his performance of a song called “Fairytale.”
The styles are shockingly similar, and most entries this year definitely fit into the Europop category. You can check out the Eurovision You Tube page to see all the entries, like Serbia’s Marko Kon & Milan Nikolic performing “Cipela.” This one was my favorite, as it seemed not to take itself as seriously as other contestants. Apparently it’s about shoes. Check it out!
Congratulations go out to Damien, Joy and Ryan, who guessed correctly on last week’s rather difficult travel trivia. The correct answer was Edinburgh Castle, in the UK. Joy even knew the name of the Ross Fountain, which was not part of the question, but is still a very important piece of architecture.
The answer to this weeks travel trivia is not mentioned in either of this weeks blog entries. Here it is:
What is the name of this European theater?
Hint: Three operas by an English composer premiered at this theater.
Another Hint: The theater is not located in the UK or Ireland.
European composers have been writing and performing music for hundreds of years, so it would make sense that Europe is home to some of the world’s finest music halls. Located throughout the continent, these theaters are architectural masterpieces. Many theaters still function today. Seeing an opera performed in Europe is an experience to remember, and is no doubt one of the best ways to embrace the culture of any European country. Let’s take a closer look at some of the theaters that have endured for hundreds of years.
Semperoper, Dresden, Germany
The Semperoper in Dresden has a world wide reputation for being one of the finest opera houses ever built. The building itself is an absolute marvel, combining many European architectural styles. The Semperoper hosts performances every day during its peak season. While in Dresden this October, you can see many acts, including Don Giovanni, Hansel and Gretel, Macbeth, and Giselle. Ticket prices are affordable, but events held at the Semperoper are sure to sell out fast.
Wiener Staatsoper, Vienna, Austria
The Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera) is one of the oldest indoor performance theaters in the world, dating back to the beginning of the 18th century. The history of the building is filled with mystery and tragedy, as two of the original architects were killed during construction. Guided tours of this masterful building are available for €8. This price also includes admission to the Opera Museum, as well as the Austrian Theatre Museum, all in Vienna. Catch one of the many works being performed this season which include Faust, La Traviata, The Barber of Seville, and the Marriage of Figaro.
Verona Arena, Verona, Italy
Built nearly two thousand years ago in the style of a traditional Roman coliseum, the Verona Arena is still in use today. This impressive arena holds fifteen thousand people, and hosts a wide variety of acts. While the bulk of the performances are symphonies and operas, a many modern artists have performed here including The Who, Pearl Jam, and Simply Red. The opera season generally peaks in summer; with symphony and other performances in the fall and winter months. The Arena is one of Verona’s most magnificent structures, and offers a truly unique opportunity to view performances in such a historic venue.
Estates Theater, Prague, Czech Republic
The Estates Theater is generally viewed as one of the most beautiful theaters in Europe. The impressive balconies and chandelier give this theater a historic feel. The Estates Theater is probably best known for its connection to the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It was at the Estates where Mozart first performed and conducted the opera Don Giovanni in 1787. This is a must see for fans of his work as it is the only theater still standing where he actually performed. This theater was even featured in the film about his life, Amadeus. Today, there are ballet, opera, and symphony performances at this historic venue. Truly a must see during your visit in Prague.
Royal Opera House, London, England
While many tourists head into London’s West End theater district for modern works, more traditional performances can be found at the Royal Opera House. Originally built as a playhouse in the early 1700’s, the theater was first rebuilt after fires in 1809, and in 1856. A complete renovation in the 1990’s has made this theater one of the more advanced theaters. The venue was improved with new office, backstage, and rehearsal space, as well as surtitles (projected translations) above the stage. The Royal Opera House currently hosts a wide variety of plays and operas, including Swan Lake, Don Goivanni, La Calisto, and Puccini’s La fanciulla del West.
Palais Garnier, Paris, France
While there is no shortage of theaters in this artful city, one of the more grandeur locations you can see a performance in Paris is the Palais Garnier. The massive stage can hold over 400 performers, and the chandelier in the center of the theater weighs over ten thousand pounds! Not bad for a theater that only seats 2,200. Many other theaters took the beautiful design as a blueprint once the impressive structure was completed in 1875. Greek mythological statues can be found on the outside of the theater, as well as the bronze busts of famous composers in between marble columns. This season check out one of the many performances, including Fidelio, Macbeth and The Magic Flute, while on vacation in Paris.
These beautiful halls are just a taste of what Europe has to offer. If you have experience in any of these halls or one not mentioned, feel free to leave a comment with a review.
One of the finest things to do is witness a live musical performance while on European vacation. For hundreds of years, Europe has carried the torch of innovation and creativity when it comes to music. From the Beethoven to the Beatles, Europe has given birth to many musical visionaries. Europe is home to hundreds of high quality, historic venues for musical performance. They range in size and host a wide variety of musical genre. Smaller clubs hold numbers in the hundreds, while many stadiums hold over a hundred thousand people. Musicians from all over the world play to European crowds, hoping to impress audiences like so many before them. Upcoming entries will focus on places to see symphonies and operas performed by world class orchestras, as well as the historic theaters, and venues themselves. Today, the focus will be on a few current touring acts in Europe.
Coldplay
Formed in 1998, Coldplay is alternative rock band from London that puts on an epic live show experience. They have been compared to many artists, from Radiohead to Johnny Cash, and their vast influence can be heard in the studio albums they have released. The band is very active in charities all over the world, and refuses to sell any of its music for advertising. This energetic show is currently on the road through October 2nd with shows in Budapest, Vienna, Munich, Zurich, Bologna, Milan, Rotterdam and Antwerp. An additional UK tour begins December 1st and covers 11 shows in 18 days.
Ani Difranco
Folk, jazz and rock inspired songwriter Ani Difranco embarks on a European tour this October. Simply put, Ani commands the audience’s attention with her intimate shows, well planned sets, and impressive musical talent. She is sure to impress fans with her energetic, emotional, and inspiring performances all over Europe beginning on October 17th in Gerona, Spain. The tour covers 9 shows in just 13 days in Spain, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands and England.
Kanye West
Kayne West will be crossing the Atlantic to play shows in Ireland, England and France beginning on November 8th. Mr. West is known for his dramatic, high energy performances, and is sure to be well received by fans in Europe. Award winning production and brilliant lyrical work fuel record sales all over the world. Shows include a performance at London’s massive O2 arena. The final show of the tour in Paris on November 20th is the only stop scheduled for mainland Europe.
The Pogues
Somewhere between pints, the Pogues have managed to throw together a December tour of the UK and Ireland. Acclaimed by critics and fans alike, the Pogues have been performing their unique blend of traditional Irish music, rock and punk for over 25 years. Sticking mainly to college halls, this tour is sure to fuel the bands creative energy. Fans are hoping that these early Christmas gifts may lead to more shows in 2009. The tour kicks off on December 6th in Belfast, and ends just in time for Christmas on the 22nd in Dublin.
Elton John
Beginning the 19th of Noveber, Sir Elton John rockets through Europe with his extensive catalogue of classic songs. Always entertaining, fans are flocking to his shows from all over the world to see Elton on his “Red Piano” tour. This was originally a series of 200 shows in Las Vegas so well received it was decided to take it on the road. Seven shows take place in the UK, four in Germany, with additional shows in Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway and France.
Barry Manilow
Hear the energetic entertainment of Barry Manilow for just 4 special nights in the UK. Demand is sure to be very high for these tickets, as the fan base in the England is just as dedicated, as his American fans. A true showman in every sense of the world, Barry Manilow is sure to leave fans smiling on December 4th, 6th and 7th in London, and December 8th in Manchester, UK.
Of course this is just a small example of bands on tour. There are hundreds of amazing local bands and musicians playing in clubs and bars every night. Each city has its own amazing venues and halls that warrant their own post, so look for that in the future. A great way to follow your favorite band is in a rental car from Auto Europe. With ticket prices so high, you will be glad you saved so much money on your car rental.
