Mapping

Neo-geographers help map Haiti

In the wake of the Haitian earthquake entries on OpenStreetMap soared as volunteers helped map the country's roads, and more importantly, details of the 'quake's impact.

More here.

New tool for creating geographic visualisations

For the US only, but is makes mapping geographic data possible without expensive software. Clearmaps

Skateboarding and the City

One of out third year dissertation students, a colleague and I are currently involved in a project in collaboration with Dance City and Northern Architecture (both here in Newcastle upon Tyne). Part of the methodology involves skaters mapping their Newcastle. Some of the maps - which can be seen here and here - will form part of an exhibition at Dance City in June.

Peter Godwin - Emotional Disguise

On this date in 1982, Peter Godwin released his debut solo single, "Emotional Disguise". It was backed by "French Emotions". Both tracks appeared on his debut album, Dance Emotions (though "Emotional Disguise" was an extended version on the album which was, actually, more of a mini-album). Prior to his solo career, Peter Godwin was in the band Metro (David Bowie covered their "Criminal World" on his Let's Dance album). The German born new wave singer has not released much since 1983.



Wikipedia: Peter Godwin

Blogload: Peter Godwin - Emotional Disguise - 7 inch (both sides) - musiconvinyl.blogspot.com

Revolutionary Spirit

On this date in 1982, The Wild Swans released their debut single, "Revolutionary Spirit". The B side was "God Forbid". Neither track appeared on a regularly released album. The Liverpool, England post punk/new wave band was fronted by Paul Simpson, formerly of The Teardrop Explodes. Pete de Freitas of Echo and The Bunnymen played drums on the single. The Wild Swans disbanded in 1990. They have, however, been back in the studio recording recently.



Wikipedia: The Wild Swans

Official Website: thewildswans.co.uk

Blogload: The Zoo Uncaged 1978-1982 - a compilation - includes The Wild Swans' "Revolutionary Spirit" and "God Forbid" - music-isms.blogspot.com

The Queer Pills - Stupid Jerk

On this date in 1982, The Queer Pills released their debut EP, Stupid Jerk. Aside from the title track, the record also contained "Time To Fuck", "The Todd Killings" and "They Saved Hitler's Cock". The band was actually Angry Samoans trying to disguise their identity because of a radio ban on their music. The original pressing of the record gave no indication of who the actual band was. A few of these tracks appeared on Angry Samoans second album, Back From Samoa. Based on the songs' subject matter and titles, I can't imagine that the Los Angeles hardcore punk band had much success getting these songs on the radio either.



Blogload: The Queer Pills - Stupid Jerk EP - shotgunsolution.blogspot.com

Kraut - Unemployed

On this date in 1982, Kraut released their second EP, Unemployed. Aside from the title track, it included "Last Chance" and "Matinee". The first two tracks appeared on their debut album, An Adjustment To Society. The third did not. The Queens, NY hardcore punk band turned their attention to metal by the middle of the '80's. They are active again after a lay off.



Wikipedia: Kraut

Blogload: Kraut - Unemployed EP - all three tracks - kbdrecords.com

The Plimsouls

On this date in 1981, The Plimsouls released their self-titled debut album. It contained the singles, "Now" and "Zero Hour". The Los Angeles power pop disbanded in 1984 after two albums but they have frequently re-formed for touring since. Frontman Peter Case was previously in Los Angeles new wave band The Nerves.



Wikipedia: The Plimsouls

Myspace: myspace.com/plimsouls

Blogload: The Plimsouls...Plus - goldenbrown77.blogspot.com

Stray Cats

On this date in 1981, Stray Cats released their self-titled debut album. It contained the singles, "Runaway Boys" (#9 U.K.), "Stray Cat Strut" (#11 U.K., #3 U.S.) and "Rock This Town" (#9 U.K., #9 U.S.). Despite the fact that they hailed from Massapequa, NY, this album was never released in the U.S., though many of the songs would later appear on their U.S. debut, Built For Speed, including the three singles. The rockabilly band broke up in 1984 but periodically reunites for performances.



Wikipedia: Stray Cats

Official Website: straycats.com

Blogload: Stray Cats - debut album - rockgratismp3.blogspot.com