Cart| Reality…CHECK… PLEASE!! |
Hi all, This blog is going to give me a bout of déjà vu I fear. Last summer we had RAIN for weeks on end, and this year it’s shaping up to be the same. How exciting is that news!! I’ll be online booking a cheap holiday away to Cyprus or somewhere hot as soon as I finish this update! ;) (If I can afford it that is!) Judging by all this ‘Recession’ talk, I think it’s more than a ray of sunshine we’ll be needing in our lives. God, these are dull days indeed… Oh well, as they say… “Always look on the bright side of life!”. So on a lighter note…Ah… I’m tryna think of a lighter note I can put in here, but I can’t think of one. Damn…Ok. Now I know we’re not having much of a crop this year, but lets really try look on the bright side eh… The trees and grass are full of life and plumage!! The place looks beautiful, we can’t deny that! AND, although our bank accounts mightn’t be bursting at the seems, the river banks are overflowing, which is great for fishing. And and… We don’t need to be washing our 6 million cars as often in this weather! Yes, the same 6 million that’ll be going on auto trader very soon when we can’t afford to keep up our payments on them. PHEW, I knew there was a reason to be optimistic. Happy days!!! Right, enough of that before I depress myself or anyone that might read this. MUSIC STUFF Just in regards to my last brief message about my music… Well, I was seriously considering abandoning the whole gig scene, but after some great friendly advice from friends who have gone through the same hardships and endless politics in the game, I’ve decided not to make any rash decisions on a future that doesn’t even exist right now. I’m going to continue to do my thing, at my own pace, and just see what happens. In fact, I’ve got new material and I’m ready to record a new album, but not for commercial release. (Yes, I‘m going to give it away for free) I’m tired of all the ass-lickin that goes on in the music industry. It’s an absolute joke, because there’s thousands of amazingly talented musicians around the country, that will sadly never taste success due to their lack of financial or material desire. And because of this, record companies find it difficult to exploit their image and music. Well, to be honest, I’m delighted that bands like ‘The Aftermath’, ’Mundy’ and ‘The Pale’ are standing up to the suits that are dominating and destroying our music industry. And I’m glad to see more and more people realizing that the real success is the joy of performing and being treated with respect… rather than this ridiculous notion of fame and fortune. Something that only one in every 10,000, and not necessarily talented musicians may ever experience anyway. On the outside it does look bleak, but beneath the surface this country is awash with talent. I think we’re blessed with singers and storytellers right now. Thank god for myspace, that’s all I can say… And sooner the better more bands and artists stand up for their rights in an industry that is only too happy to bleed you dry!! (oh don’t get me started!!) Anywho…. As I was saying. I’m going to continue singing, writing and recording. I’ve got mountains of lyrics I need to get off my chest! So there’ll be no more hissy fits from me for the foreseeable future! =o) Wow I’m in a right mood today! Sorry about that. Must be something in the water! *ahem* (Anyone from Clonbullogue will understand what I mean) *ahem* Ok, moving on swiftly. FILM UPDATE 'Out of Tune' A 20 minute short film, is now wrapped and entering Post Production. Written/Directed & Produced by Paddy Slattery, though this is a low budget Independent project, it has attracted some of the most creative and professional Crew members and Actors available. Editors and Foley Artists interested in being involved please contact us with CV and/or Show reel. Thank you, SAD Mantra Productions ‘Out of Tune’ Coming Soon! Adios amigos, Paddy PS- Here's a wee video my brother recorded on his phone. We were at a Mundy gig recently, where he kicked off his nationwide tour. Well, we all enjoyed a few drinks and a bit of a singsong afterwards in the bar. Bare in mind, I had a lot of alchol consumed and the sun was coming up outside! Posted by paddy slattery on Wednesday, July 09, 2008 at 11:08 |
| GOOD TIMES! (Good Irish Times!) |
Hey fellow reader, I feel a blog update coming on...Jeebus Creebus!!.. its been over TWO months since I last posted! Damn, where's the time gone! Well, things have been getting purty busy around here... I had the honor of playing a gig in The Purty Sessions in Dublin, annnd the The Ruby Sessions! Two of Irelands finest singer/songwriter nights, and they went great! Had an absolute blast and looking forward to doing it again. Since I've last blogged we've played support to 'The Aftermath' in The Button Factory for their debut Album Launch of 'Friendlier up Here' which shot straight in at #26 in the album charts and was named 'Album of the Week' by none other than the friendly Larry Gogan himself! (What a dude!) We've also had the pleasure of supporting 'The Pale' in The Stables recently, and we'll be playing with them in the Tullamore Phoenix Festival in Joe Lee's on July 19th. Cannot wait!! That's been my latest music news for ya without even realizing I wrote it. It feels great to brag haha Ah no, but I have to say, it's a really amazing feeling playing gigs like these. Fingers crossed I get the privilege of playing more in the future. *touch wood/pinch of salt over the shoulder* I suppose the blog titles a bit of a give away, but I did an interview with Fiona Tyrell for The Irish Times recently, and I just want to say a maahuusiff thanks to her for the opportunity and to everyone for the kind emails! The response, for an ordinary joe like myself, was unreal! I think the article can be read from their website if ya run a google search. If ya do get to read it I hope you enjoy. Liverpool were knocked out of the Champions League semi-finals. So what... we were fla'd! Next year baby! As for Man U-shyted winning the cup!!!!! How POXED are they!?!? "Thats why we're champions" me arse... they only won the cup cause John Terry was tripped up as he was running to take his penalty!!! (Its true.. check the replays) ;) Annyways.... I'm not bitter.... FIVE TIMES!!! Thats ALL I need to say. *ahem* ..moving on.... FILM NEWS We're now in Pre-production for my first Short Film titled 'Out of Tune' and all's going well, so far. We begin shooting second weekend in June and I have to say, I'm pretty fortunate with my cast. Some great actors on board, and a highly competent and creative Film Crew too, so I'm excited to see how the next few weeks unfold. (For further information on the Production, and if you're interested in being an extra for some scenes please email me at films@paddyslattery.com or www.myspace.com/paddyslatteryfilms ) Ta. Production Synopsis: 'Out of Tune' is a 20 minute Short Film, set in a restless suburban town, about a young struggling musician who has a nervous breakdown. He decides to quit chasing his dreams, but finds it's not that simple to just walk away from music, which has been his life. (Being a "struggling" musician myself it wasn’t too difficult researching this subject. Also, last year I Wrote/Directed and Produced a Play, and my main actor, who is also a musician has agreed to play this character, and is perfect for the part in my opinion.) This short is an extremely low budgeted, mostly hand-held docu-style piece which will be shot on High Performance Sony Digital Cameras, with immense attention to artistic detail. All shooting will take place on location in Tullamore Co. Offaly. Furtha mo Wanna say Congratulations to Damien 'D'Hoff' Mitchell for an amazing starring role performance in Oscar Wildes 'The Importance of Being Ernest' Produced for the Stage by TADS (Tullamore Amature Dramatics Society) And Congratulations also to Olga Aughey who is cast in the Theatre production of 'One Flew Over The Cookoos Nest' which I hope to see this coming Thursday night in Mullingar. Really looking forward to that! Oh key dokie, I think I'm all rambled out, and my typing arm is cramping up =/ Hope all are keeping well this weather!! Feckin great weather it is too!! chat soon pg Paddy s dx ps - gud luck to everyone doin exams!!!! tis exam season.. hope its not stressin ya out too much. peace pps - Caoimhe, stay safe on that bike!! ;) evil kanevil lol Posted by paddy slattery on Monday, May 26, 2008 at 16:27 |
| Thee ticks, thee tox. |
Apparently I've been suffering from a return bout of I.B.S. (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Acid Reflux, Bladder Spasms, Kidney Infection and Autonomic Dysreflexia all at the same time. I gotta admit, I've been feeling really ill the last few months because of it, but last week after meeting a herbalist, Emmet Welsh, I'm already, almost miraculously on the mend! Although my complete internal nervous system has been in a mess for so long, the sudden change of diet and herbal remedy dosage has turned my health upside down. Or should I say, the right way up! Incredibly, I feel re-energized and pain free which is such a welcome relief. I cannot remember the last time I felt this good. But of course I've had to make some extreme sacrifices in order to achieve this. Here's an example... Ok, for the next month my diet consists of Homemade Vegetable Soup for breakfast, dinner and if you can handle it, supper too! Thank god I love soup, otherwise I'd be fucked. Pardon my French. No meat nor alcohol either. I've got to go through a complete detox. Already I'm feeling the benefits from it tho which is extraordinary. I LOVE my food, so it is difficult to stay on such a strict regime, and the lovely smells of roast chicken, or the fry up on Sunday morning doesn't help the matter. I guess its a matter of breaking away from an unhealthy routine of bad habits. Like eating half a jar of pickled onions before I go to bed. HAHA feckin mental. It's no wonder my whole digestive system was burnt out. But I'm only a week into this new radical diet. I wonder if I'll be just as determined two weeks down the line? I hope so. I am physically tired of feeling unwell, and like I said before in my previous blog, I've ignored my health for far too long and had my priorities arse over foot. (wrong in other words) I've made a promise to myself that this year I was going to put my health first, and hopefully return to full physical fitness, so that remains my goal for 08. (or should I say oh eight fuck all) Hey, Im allowed swear, its my blog. ;) Annnnnywho.............aside from health matters.... whats been going on in the world of performing arts. MUSIC UPDATE I've decided to take a wee break from the gigs til my health is right, so I'm not back on stage until mid April when I'll be doing some supports for one of Irelands hardest working indie rock bands 'The Aftermath' They are releasing their debut album so it's an honor to be supporting such a quality band of boyohs. They're actually really nice guys too so I'm very fortunate to have met them! Thanks to a certain Joey 'The Goose' Cornally. Cheers Joey(You'll probably never read this but cheers anyhow) ;) I've also had the pleasure of supporting an amazing musician in The Stables in Mullingar lately, by the name of Puzzle Muteson. Ya should look him up on myspace, he's feckin brilliant! And another great band that'll be supporting myself and my band in Loughreys on May 3rd is a new outfit called Lilac Blue. The quality of their style and material is breathtaking! Trust me, this band will be huge! Congratulations to my good buddy Wayne Brennan too, for a great performance at the launch of 'The Potential Collection Vol 2' produced by Barry 'Jazz' Finnegan, founder of 'The Zodiac Sessions'. ''Irelands finest singer/songwriter night'' as quoted by Hotpress. Wayne's precious stand out contribution to the album is a track called 'Make You Smile' which will also feature on his forthcoming debut album titled 'In My Hands' We'll be hearing a lot more from Wayne in the coming months, but to find out more about him, if you check out The Tullamore Tribune this week he will feature in an article written by Ken Hume. A man who knows great music when he hears it and has been a source of support for musicians throughout the midlands. (all the above mentioned can be found on myspace or bebo) FILM PLANS To make a long story short, no pun intended, Im about to produce two SHORT Films. 'Out Of Tune' which will star actor/musician Damien Farrell (Good Heavens, Brother Rufus), about a struggling musician who has a nervous breakdown. and 'No Reasons' which is an intense drama, examining the psychological effects of bullying and suppressed depression which can lead to tragic consequences. (Tho both pieces are very topical, I must add that neither are factual based or biographical) Both scripts are ready to be shot, so I'm now in the process of recruiting production crews and financing, so if you've just read this a feel you may be able to help or contribute in any way please don't hesitate to say. Cheers. I'm passionate about getting these projects to screen as soon as possible so fingers crossed all goes well in the next few months. Special thank you to Tim Leflef (Film Producer) for your guidance and looking forward to working together on these films. I also want to mention a special thanks for the ongoing support from June Carley (Mid103fm 'The Best of Irish Music') Olga Aughey (Red Lizzard Productions & The Offaly Topic) All the Schools around the Country that I've had the pleasure of Visiting already this year. Orla in Galway for film advice. And my lads in the band Mark, Josh, Elton and Aidan. Cheers lads Okay, I'm all blogged out. I'm after working up an appetite for some hot chunky vegetable soup! (arghhh...it doesn't matter how good you try make it sound, it still lacks the same appeal as a lovely Chicken Madras with Pelo Rice and Chips) *cries* hope all who read this are keeping well.......... if not, I'll pass on Emmet Welsh's number ;) take care Paddy Posted by paddy slattery on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at 12:06 |
| RANT MOAN YAP |
Well well... I guess the year is well and truly on the way. January’s just gone and Spring is in the air! *deep inhale* Ahhh.... *long exhale!!* ........I suppose I should be feeling refreshed after that, but nope, I actually feel... I donno, wrecked is a good work. I just haven't felt any new energy running through my veins yet. Having a bit of a slow start plus the fact that Im coming out the other end of a bad cold, and running a course of anti-biotics for an infection. Blahhh... Being up a 3am writing on my computer doesn't help neither I know....Its just so difficult for me to get into a decent routine. My sleeping patterns are as abstract as a Van Gogh painting! I always make new years resolutions, and my top priority is usually my health, but the older I get the less wiser I become, or so it seems. I never thought it would be so difficult to get healthy and maintain it for longer than a few days, but EVERY time I begin to feel energized or strong, I foolishly slip back into bad habits. I think I'm my own worst enemy in this regard. But hey... no seriously.... I NEED to cop on to myself!! C'MON Paddy, ya lazy gobawn!! This year, 2008, I want to regain control of my life, physically I mean. For the last two years I've been on a roller coaster and it has been an amazing experience, both bad and good but unforgettable, so this year, I feel like Im suffering the physical consequences. I don't even think I have a choice now, I just have to discipline myself and find a healthy balance. I cannot afford to be neglecting my physio. No no no! New leaf has to be turned. And, though I never consider age being a factor, I guess I have to approach the THIRTIES with a wiser sense of responsibility towards myself. I've been burning the candle at both ends for too long now and that's got to stop. Yup, as boring as that sounds, it's got to happen. Right, saying that, I do still have ambitions for the year ahead in relation to my music and filmmaking/writing... This just means Im not gonna break my back tryna get myself out there, rather, Im gonna use the 'sit back and let it come to me' approach. Sounds like a good idea, the only thing needed for this to be a success is for my phone to miraculously start ringing with job offers. Or even offers of funding for a film project! haha fat chance. But realistically, something’s got to give. I've learned a lot in the last two years since launching an album, and this website, and everything that followed there after. Not only about the media or music industry, but about myself also. Ive met great people and made unbelievably amazing new friends. What an experience that I've been blessed with! I plan on taking full advantage of the opportunities in my life and Im optimistic about the future. But but, I know I cannot have jam on both sides, so yes, I now have to knuckle down, wise up, and try motivate myself in a more positive and healthy direction. "A healthy mind a healthy body" ....and all that jazz. =) Ok, sorry for that rant but it's off my chest now and I already feel a sense of relief. Tis very therapeutic this, scribbling your thoughts. lol Anyways..... bring on the Spring, Im ready for rebirth. Posted by paddy slattery on Sunday, January 20, 2008 at 20:30 |
| Happy New Year!! |
Hey all, and to all a great 08! ;) Wow, Christmas was brilliant, but I wont go into detail because its not officially over yet haha The tree is still up. A REAL tree too, which held onto its pines respectivly! Tho it is begining to pong a big. hmm. Anyways, Im gonna cut this short and update again soon when I'm "Officially" back to work, which is after the coming weekend. But before I go, I have to mention a special thank you to all who supported my latest single 'Head Over Heels' on www.outersounds.ie and for making it No.1 on the download chart for Christmas day. :) To see the music video, the "Official" video for 'Head Over Heels' please check out the youtube link below http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_uXCuGe-xc cheers and chat soon, Paddy by the way. my new years resolution....is to be less in the head and more in the body. ha. which means I need to stop over thinking, and make my health a priority. there ya go. its now OFFICIAL. ....officially. peace xx Posted by paddy slattery on Thursday, January 03, 2008 at 10:45 |
| 'Head Over Heels' Mission Statement |
The second single to be lifted from my debut album 'Stand & Deliver' comes at an extremely competitive time in regards to releasing new material, especially on an Independent record label. The Christmas market will now be awash with high-profile artists and record companies, each pushing with financial clout and ruthless objective. That coveted Christmas Number 1 spot. I know for someone in my position, it's like a minnow swimming in an ocean of sharks, but to be honest, the only reward I seek from releasing this song is, a multi-million euro record contract, a sell-out World tour and all the fame an ego can handle. ...well, not really. But what I do hope for, like any other artist in my position, is at least a little respect and possibly half a chance to have my music heard. "Just one chance!" as Sir William Wallace so inspiringly requested. The thing that's so disheartening and financially crippling in this industry, is that unfortunately the chance never comes. I suppose if the material is good enough it should stand up on its own feet, but there was once a time that I was naive enough to believe that. And knowing now through experience that our Radio stations and press are somewhat obligated to regurgitated endless portions of absolute muck, otherwise known as "Manufactured Music" in exchange for money is enough to leave a bad taste in anyone’s mouth, let alone our ears. And to think, I promised myself I would try not become a cynic too early in life. Perhaps it's all part and parcel, and what doesn't break you will make you. Who knows. I suppose I could always audition for the next series of X-Factor if all else fails. You can probably detect the slight hint of sarcasm in my tone by now. I guess the reason I'm sitting here writing this, is because I'm genuinely appealing to all the ones in positions of power, Journalists, Disc-Jockeys and the like, with a good sense of what is right and wrong. The ones who have managed to maintain their integrity and original focus that once inspired them to chase their own dreams and aspirations. The ones who haven't allowed the prospect of fame, fortune and opportunism to blind them from their true goals. Well here's an opportunity for you. Please support what is honest-to-goodness genuine and sincere. Something that is abundant in Ireland but never really celebrated nor appreciated. And that is Independent Music. There are thousands of exceptionally talented writers and performers in our country that never get the recognition they deserve, and the difference between success and failure is determined by the amount of money you can afford to throw at your dream. Well my dream is fast becoming a financial nightmare of sorts... The Nightmare Before Christmas you could say. But nevertheless, I'm not in a position to complain, in fact, that's not my intention with this 'Mission Statement' at all. I'm here to plug my CD. To put turkey on my plate for Christmas. Maybe even a Brussels sprout or two. So, on the 14th December if buying cd's isn't your thing, there's a good chance I'll be giving away copies of my single for free. All you Independent artists out there will relate to this when I tell you I'm building up too much of a collection of tea coasters around the house. Very expensive coasters mite I add. It's a good job there's a lot of tea drinkers in my house! Right, with that said, I sincerely want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and a healthy and prosperous New Year! Thank you for taking the time to read this. P.S. 'Head Over Heels' will be Available to but in: ALL 'Heartbeat City' Stores throughout the midlands. Through my website www.paddyslattery.com Online at www.outersounds.ie iTunes From Friday 14th December. The CD includes a Music Video, and Cover Version of Paul Brady's song 'The Island' Shur I donno how Santa’s gonna fit it all in! Bye for now, Paddy xx Posted by paddy slattery on Thursday, December 06, 2007 at 10:33 |
| Good... No, GREAT Heavens!! |
Great because of the unforgettable fun Ive had during the production. Hi all, I've survived the big ''Opening Nights'' of our play Good Heavens!! Only just tho! ;) but I'm still recovering. My, what an amazing experience with a bunch of the most amazing and friendly people you would ever wish to meet! And EXTREMELY talanted! Ah man, so glad the hard work is over, but so sad too. Was such a rewarding experience... I'm really glad we got a good sized audience, because our cast really deserved it. I wanna say a special thanks to all these guys below for their tireless effort in bringing this play to life... Damien 'Farlo' Farrel who Starred as Brendan "Theres more than a which in a WHAT now!?" Damien Mitchel as St. Peter "You mean to tell me that this BIG fella im holdin here is Brendan?! Well god damn it!" Olga Aughey as Hillary "Oh Dave... Speak to me in your native tongue would you?" Yoran Fadoul as Dave "Hillary... are you in there?" Deirdre Martin as Grim Reaper/Juicey Lucy "MUAWAHAHAHAAAAAAA!!!!!!............" Vickie Kilroe as Mary "Do you use that line with every woman you try to have an affair with?" Brian Talbot as Guard/Devil "et.. get, get back..that vile creature.. go back, im warning you... I HATE RATS!!" Terry O' Neil as Barman "jay-ziz lawrd jayy-ziz Brendan, ya do test me patence sometimes, but this takes sum baten!" Mary Lowebridge as Brigit "mummy and daddy were, and you know, ah, um, goin you know how it is.. ah" Wayne Brennan as Drunk Pal #1 "Good man Brendan, get that down your chest, it'll put hairs on your neck" Thomas Slattery as Drunk Pal #2 "oh you dont want to miss this Brendan.. I dont wanna miss it myself!" Leanne Brennan as Dervil "Oh go on Hillary, ya said ya wanted to durin the week. Besides, all the girls would be drunk at work" John Slattery as Bouncer outside the Gates of Heaven Chris Quinn as Dead Builder Claire Brennan as Dead Hairdresser Ann Foran as Girlfriend in bar. Steven Tinkler as Drunk Pal #3 Also special thank you to my da Jimmie Slattery for building an amazing set! To all our stage hands, Jim, Paddy and everyone who helped out backstage! There were tons of ye. Noirin and Martina and all at Offaly C.I.L for their help, and support. Ronan Finnerty on Lighting Star Systems (Liz, Dennis) on Sound. A great event that I'll never forget, thanks to you guys!! Ahh shur...what do ya do, when ya live in a shoe? Music News 'Head Over Heels' Single and Video Launch Friday 14TH December 'Rugby Club' in Tullamore, Co. Offaly A Big arsed party before Christmas with plenty of top notch live music! Bands performing (in no particular order): Paddy Slattery and band (Mark, Josh, Elton, Aidan) Wayne Brennan Brother Rufus Mark Hogan Mark Conway Band DJ to finish out the night. (TBC) There may even be a premier screening of our play 'Good Heavens' to kick off the night. We'll see what happenns. All are welcome. Spurrrrrrr red the word. Cheers Paddy De Niro Posted by Paddy Slattery on Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 18:40 |
| Play with my mind |
ow, my head hurts two days to go til curtains up. jeepers... hope everything goes well. i guess i should try get some sleep then... arghh... thinking thinking thinking. cant stop. damn.... should i quit typing and go to bed... yes i should... so, do u think i would do that... no. oh but i will. goood night. paddy ps- i guess this was a blog Posted by paddy slattery on Friday, November 16, 2007 at 19:33 |
