Aaron Slater - Blog

On the stereo

2009-05-06T23:29:00.002+01:00

Right, headphones in, laptop fired up and broadband burning. Having a quick rummage through the murky world of myspaces and found some gems out there. Now chaps and chapesses, as well as savouring my own music, I urge you to check out...

MARMADUKE DUKE - 'Rubber Lover'
Just a clip on their myspace - you've gotta fork out the pennies to get this single in full. Their new album is pretty crazy stuff, not sure what to make of it quite yet. Also, what the hell is going on with the heavy-metal-gothic-punk look they're sporting? Doesnt quite fit the quirky dance pop, but hey rules are there to be broken eh?
http://www.myspace.com/themarmadukeduke

THE OPERATORS - 'B Line'
Cosmic indie disco with a killer hook in this track. Loving the old disco house bassline that drives along in the background. Reminscent of Duran Duran and Mylo me thinks.
http://www.myspace.com/theoperatorsrock

MILKE - 'Love Get Out Of My Way'
I'm still listening to Black Ghosts' album from last year and this is the closest thing I've heard to match the electro-pop power, as far as I'm concerned. Deserves a decent airing this summer.
http://www.myspace.com/milketheband

Classic Tracks #100: 'Battleflag' - Lo Fidelity Allstars

2009-03-25T13:17:00.004Z

I love lists. Can’t get enough of ‘em. So, as I’ve been dusting off my old CD collection and discovering some forgotten gems, I’ve started to compile my top 100 classic tracks. Of course this could take a while and in my head the list could change every day, but what the hell. Let’s make a start...

100. 'BATTLEFLAG' - LO FIDELITY ALLSTARS
This monster track has been a favourite of mine since the heady days of big beat when Skint Records were churning out some big hitters. I remember, back when the Future Funk Squad were modest DJs in Yeovil (now FFS is renowned globe-trotting producer Glen Nichols and his partner on the decks was Neil Briggs, who’s out on his own as a successful breakbeat DJ called High8), I used to drunkenly pester them to play this track and promptly dance like a deranged orangutan from the first beat. Those were the days! As far as I’m concerned, Battleflag was the Lo Fidelity Allstars finest moment – cool vocal, dirty beat and great hammond organ outro. Shoddy video though.

Who Were The Dog Robbers?

2009-03-23T23:31:00.004Z

Freaky! I found this on my laptop from a few years ago. When Will Simms and I first started producing tracks, we played live under the name 'Dog Robbers', hence this surreal design. Not sure what was I thinking!? Dog Robbers are no more, so this was destined never to see the light of day...until now

Audio Porn Central

2009-03-17T13:40:00.008Z

You gotta check out Audio Porn Central - comical images, funky mashups, relentless posting and tons of utterly cool stuff make this really really addictive.

My personal favourite is Izel's 'Love Shot' which is a seamless blend of the Beastie Boys and Barry White & the Love Unlimited Orchestra. Genius!

New AaronSlater Facebook Musician Page

2009-03-14T12:10:00.008Z

Yep, we all know, use, poke, socially network and get addicted to the phenomenon that is Facebook. I'm no exception and have fallen for its charms hook, line and sinker, so I've now got an official new Facebook Musician Page for all and sundry to browse, watch, listen and comment til the cows come home.

So go for it peeps, visit: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aaron-Slater/68238514438 and 'Become A Fan'.

Laters,
Slater
x

Is It Jackson Live?

2009-03-04T13:53:00.008Z

The much-publicised rise and fall of the King Of Pop could be taking another twist. As the O2 Arena management prepare for a press conference tomorrow, rumours are that Michael Jackson will be announcing a run of shows at the London venue and maybe even a world tour.

Regardless of the media speculation and Michael's alleged 'dodgy' activities behind closed doors, his music will still go down in pop history and his albums certainly had a massive influence on me. Off The Wall, Thriller, Bad and Dangerous were played til the tape wore out (yes, that's a ye olde cassette) when I grew up and still get thrown on the stereo to keep the party going.

So, what better reason to highlight my favourite Jacko moment of all time? Look out for that legendary moonwalk! 3m40s in if you can't wait...

"Sha'mon..."

Interview on Venture Radio

2009-03-03T13:30:00.002Z

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Ryan Harris on
his Friday Night Experience radio show. Its now possible to hear a podcast
of the interview via this link: singer-songwriter-aaron-slater-talks-to-ryan.

It was great fun and thanks to Ryan for playing my songs on the show. Miss
Opportunity has had an airing on a few occasions and we're looking to
organise a live acoustic set in the next few weeks.

DJ Ryan Harris will soon be broadcasting on Ace 106.8 FM and Play Radio, so
keep an ear out for him and follow his progress at www.ryanharris.co.uk.

AS

Woo Hoo!...

2009-02-26T13:46:00.004Z

...Blur are back! My favourite band in the world ever are officially reformed...well 50% of them are anyway!

Last night was the NME Awards show and, although the actual winners were interesting, my real excitement centred around Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon's guest performance of This Is A Low. Sadly, I wasn't there to witness the first evidence of the rumoured reformation, but hope to catch them at one of the festivals this summer. I think it was at V Festival or Glastonbury (whatever one where Damon referred to taking ecstasy) that I saw them pull off an amazing headline show and almost drowned in pogo-ing mass of hysteria during Parklife. Brilliant.

Here they are chatting backstage after the performance last night...

Alien To Me remixes on YouTube

2009-02-20T13:50:00.003Z

It's funny where I crop up. This is a videoclip I found on YouTube which is the Simuck remix of Alien To Me, which came out back in 2006. It's clocked up 1,170 views which is cool and I like the comments, especially "This is filth. Love it" from funmat. Cheers.

There are a couple of other remixes and tracks on YouTube, have a look...

A

BRITs 2009 Winners And Losers?

2009-02-19T14:00:00.003Z

So Duffy is this year's best British Female Solo Artist, Breakthrough Act and gave us the Best Album. Nothing for her fellow '2008 One To Watch' Adele and nothing for 'Britain's biggest band in the world' Coldplay. Hmmm...

I suppose Chris Martin and band won't be that bothered while the Grammys are still flying in their direction and they see the royalty cheques from Viva La Vida! And haven't they got a fair few old Brit awards gathering dust on their mantlepiece already? Those of us millions of Brits who know how great Coldplay are will continue to vote with our worthless pound sterling and demonstrate our appreciation at their brilliant live shows. As a fellow West Country lad, I applaud their hardwork, talent and ambition, and I'd love to reach and inspire as many people across the globe with my own music. I saw Chris Martin and Will Champion play an acoustic set in a small tent at the Pilton party, before Parachutes became a hit, then stood watching Coldplay with tens of thousands up the road at Glasto a few years later. They were awe-inspiring at both gigs.

Yes, Duffy is fabulous as well but in a different way. I'm glad she received three well-deserved BRIT awards and everyone who's helped her along the way should be pleased with their work. I'd be pleased with that first album campaign! That said, Duffy the songwriter and performer has yet to prove her greatness. Rockferry was a great album but that perilous second album looms and where will she be in five albums time? How will she follow Rockferry?

Elbow on the other hand can sleep well at night after working their arses off, being incredibly creative and tenacious, and finally seeing some mainstream recognition that's certainly well-earned. But are they really the Best British Band? I suppose you can't get any more British than championing the underdog and snubbing the commercially successful.

Paul Weller's the Best British Male Solo Artist (sadly I was left off the nominees list this year ;)) and Iron Maiden is the Best British Live Act? In a world of instant pop 'idols' that rise sharply and fall even sharper, it's nice to see the old guard getting the dues. Maybe some Brits for Billy Bragg and Status Quo next year?!

Maverick approach by the Slaters

2009-02-12T14:10:00.008Z

As you probably all know, Mr Slater senior (aka Mutter) has been in the music business since his teens - as part of Stackridge in the 1970's and now as a solo project, The Mutter Slater Band.

Being part of the family trade and a bit handy with the ol'Photoshop, I've been designing the advertising artwork being used to push his latest album - Riding A Hurricane - and I thought I'd share this with you all. A bit of extra promotion for the old man! This will be appearing in the UK roots/blues/country magazine, Maverick...

4/4 - "Excellent, innovative stuff, which cries out to be heard live" - Maverick Magazine

Rest in peace John Martyn

2009-02-11T14:13:00.002Z

In the same way I accidentally stumbled across John Martyn in the first place, I stumbled across the news that the great man had passed away a few weeks ago. Such a shame.

It wasn’t so long ago that I was listening to Solid Air on my mp3 player (the only album which I’ve ripped from the CD and purposely keep on heavy rotation) and drifting away with the beautifully understated arrangements, lyrics and raw emotion that comes with it.

Those of you who don’t know who John Martyn is should stop what they’re doing right now (come back to reading my blog later of course) and check it out. Perfect hangover music I’ll think you’ll find. In fact, why not listen to one of my favourite tracks here...

Wanna Be In A Music Video?

2008-12-04T13:37:00.003Z

To coincide with the first release from the Aaron Slater album, we'll be shooting a promo video for circulation on this artist website, MySpace, YouTube, etc.

The concept has been worked out, the director and crew are ready, the location decided and the date set, but we need a cast! Could you join Aaron on camera and play a part in the creation of this first video?

No previous acting experience is necessary, but if you think you're energetic, confident, up for a laugh and can be in Bristol on Saturday 10th January then let us know. Send an email to manager@gopop.co.uk with a photo attached and answer this question: if you were going to be in a Hollywood film, what sort of character would you play?

Action!

LYRIC: 'Like A Ghost'

2008-12-03T21:24:00.000Z

I lie awake in an empty bed and I'm
Dreaming you are still here.
Trying to think if the postman's been as I
Make my way down the stairs...
Like a ghost.

Hold tight while the world keeps spinning and I
Wonder if you're awake
Send a letter, a postcard's not enough
I need to know that you're safe, you're...
Like a ghost.

I sign my name where yours should be, oh please
And now your gone, your memory's haunting me...
Like a ghost.

NEWS: AaronSlater.com wins a coolhomepages award!

2008-04-10T23:56:00.004+01:00

The Aaron Slater website has been accepted by Coolhomepages as an example of remarkable web site design.

CoolHomepages.com is the oldest and largest "Best Web Site Designs" gallery online. Have a look here if you don't believe it...
http://www.coolhomepages.com/

It's even got 10/10 stars! Well done and yet another thank you to Richard for the fantastic job he's done of my site. Hoorah!

Needless to say, I recommend Zaum & Brown to anyone who wants a unique artist website of any description. Pop along to www.zaum.co.uk and you'll see what they're up to.

LYRIC: 'Ignorance Is Bliss'

2007-11-02T00:11:00.001Z

There’s a voice in my head, oh no
It’s a voice running scared, oh no
I’m not a hero, I’m not a fighter
But you’re forcing my hand to retire
I can’t believe that this is happening to me

There’s a voice in my brain, oh no
It says I’m going insane, oh no
You’re a Leo, you’re not a liar
The love of my life and you’re on fire
I can’t believe that you are going with me

Ignorance is bliss, but when it comes to it I’ll save you
I’ll watch you in your sleep, while you’re still dreaming
Ignorance is bliss, but when it comes to it I’ll save you
Watch you when you sleep, while you’re still dreaming

No, I don’t understand, oh no
I’ve seen your hand in his hand, oh no
This isn’t real, this isn’t funny
Where the hell have you been? Where are you honey?
I can’t believe it, you’re not coming with me?

And I don’t know why I keep it all locked inside
And I don’t know, I don’t know, I don’t know why

Ignorance is bliss, but when it comes to it I’ll save you
I’ll watch you in your sleep, while you’re still dreaming
Ignorance is bliss, but when it comes to it I’ll save you
Watch you when you sleep, while you’re still dreaming

© 2007 Aaron Slater

LYRIC: 'Miss Opportunity'

2007-10-31T07:17:00.001Z

I’ve got a dream in California
We’re looking good and feeling fine
We set our sights a little higher
Just like it’s 1969
Maybe we’re driven to distraction
But now the writing’s on the wall
I swear these feet were made for dancing
So will you dance with me at all?

Miss Opportunity has carried me away
And Mr Jealousy has nothing left to say
When Mr Envy comes to knock you off your stride
Heaven knows, I need you by my side

I booked a flight to San Francisco
(I thought) There’s no point in hanging round
But then I saw you rock the disco
Let’s leave this godforsaken town
From Ibiza to Miami
Our feet will never touch the ground
You’ve lit the fire deep inside me
There’s no way you’ll bring me down

Miss Opportunity has carried me away
And Mr Jealousy has nothing left to say
When Mr Envy comes to knock you off your stride
Heaven knows, I need you by my side

© 2007 Aaron Slater

LYRIC: 'Firelight'

2007-10-31T00:21:00.002Z

No, I can’t believe my eyes
Whatcha doing here?
You said I’d never sacrifice
The stupid nine-to-five
But it’s made me realise
That we are…

Caught in a bottle, lost in a maze
But I’ll find my way out of this place

One day you’re up, one day you’re down
There’s nothing sweeter
We’ll catch the breeze, out of sight
It’s love by firelight

Now it’s time we turned the tide
There’s nothing left to fear
You know I’m never satisfied
That much is crystal clear
And it’s time I realised
That we are…

Trapped in a bottle, we live our lives in a daze
But we’ll find our way out of this space

One day you’re up, one day you’re down
There’s nothing sweeter
One day you’re wrong, one day you’re right
Let’s make love by firelight

© 2007 Aaron Slater

NEWS: Alien To Me appears on 'In Bed With Space' CD

2007-07-26T04:20:00.001+01:00

Clubstar's Ibiza based CD series continues with a double disc format and features the chart topping Simuck remix of Aaron Slater's "Alien To Me'.

The stunning mix by Space resident Jonathan Ulysses takes Simuck's rework to the next level with a digitally edited mix taking the vocal to all new levels of deepness.

AVAILABLE NOW FROM HMV, JUNO RECORDS AND OTHER TOP RETAILERS

NEWS: Aaron Slater opens Nick Warren's set!

2006-10-20T19:30:00.001+01:00

The Simuck Excited Dub remix of Aaron's track 'Alien To Me' continues to get a regular playlisting as Nick Warren's set-opener.

According to various forums (including IDM and Clubbersguide), Nick kicked off with Alien To Me on Kiss 100 when guest DJing on John Digweed's show on 11th June 2006.

Since showcasing the track at this year's Miami WMC, both Nick and fellow member of Way Out West; Jody W. have been dropping the tune.

The remix was also reported being played out at Space in Ibiza during various sets this summer.

Keep an ear out for Aaron Slater tracks on the dance floor near you!

NEWS: Aaron Slater Remix Contest results

2006-08-22T08:58:00.001+01:00

"Thanks to everyone who entered and congrats to the winners. You all worked hard and produced some incredibly eclectic results. Really interesting to hear how everyone interpreted the song differently." - Aaron

Here are the results...

Grand Prize Winner:
Alien To Me (acrobatic oscillations rmx) by Dfault - listen

Runner-Ups:
Alien To Me A.E. Remix by aionman - listen
Aaron Slater - Alien to me (dropkulture remix) by Dropkulture - listen
Aliien to me (111rmx) by Tripleone - listen

Grand Prize
Recording contract with FiberlineAudio.
$25.00 gift card to the FiberlineAudio.com store.
ACID Pro 6 software.
Sound Forge® 8 software.
Three Sony Sound Series™ Premium Collection Libraries.

Three Runner Up Prizes
$15.00 gift card to the FiberlineAudio.com store.
Two Sony Sound Series Standard Collection Libraries.

About the Contest
FiberlineAudio.com's slogan is "The Record Label Re-Invented For The Digital Age." Featuring an eclectic, international roster, Fiberline is seeking a little more of that digital mojo by bringing Aaron Slater to ACIDplanet.com® for remixing. ACIDplanet.com is offering Aaron's wildly popular "Alien to Me" for you to do with as you will. "Alien to Me," via Nick Warren of Way Out West, rocked the house at this year's Winter Music Conference.

NEWS: Enter the Aaron Slater Remix Contest on Acidplanet.com

2006-08-07T23:45:00.001+01:00

Fiberline is seeking a little more of that digital mojo by bringing Aaron Slater to ACIDplanet.com® for remixing. ACIDplanet.com is offering Aaron's wildly popular "Alien to Me" for you to do with as you will. "Alien to Me," via Nick Warren of Way Out West, rocked the house at this year's Winter Music Conference.

How To Enter:
1. First, create your remix of "Alien to Me". If you don't already have ACID software, download the free ACID XPRESS™ software.
2. Next, download some of the loops. Using the ACID music creation software, paint the loops into your remix.
3. When you're finished, return to the Acidplanet remix contest page and click the Upload My Entry button. Upload your track, and you've entered the contest.

More info can be found at www.acidplanet.com/contests/aaronslater

NEWS: Simuck's remix of Alien To Me released

2006-04-27T16:13:00.001+01:00

The long awaited 4th remix of Alien To Me is now available to download from www.fiberlineaudio.com.

Fiberlineaudio says..."Aaron Slater's chart topping Fiberlineaudio anthem gets the 2006 remix treatment from our very own Simuck. Already being hammered worldwide by Way Out West's Nick Warren and Jody W., Simuck's Excited Dub is set to be one of the hottest exclusives of this years Winter Music Conference."