The same things were noted.

I'm reading Simon Reynolds's latest book on the punk/new/no wave music scene 1978-84 (including interviews with JD/NE members, a certain Oakey, and a cyborg called Byrne). Best interview thus far is one with Green Gartside. One intense little taff... :)

Is this the same Simon Reynolds book that I have? Because, if so... it's a good overview of the Northern Hemisphere post-punk scene, but that's about it... from memory the only Antipodeans who get any sort of a mention are the Birthday Party. Who weren't even Nick Cave's best band, but spent some time in Germany (if I remember correctly).

If it's yellow and pink covered and called "Rip It Up and Start Again.." - then yes and/or no. I own and have read it multiple times. Dunno if that's the one you own and/or mean...

If it's the sequel/companion volume "Totally Wired..." - then the same applies.

Two music highlights this week. Got me a Th' Dudes compilation from the supermarket ("Where Are The Girls?"). The (barely, I reckon) 15 year old check-out chick asked me who they were. She'd never heard of Dave Dobbyn. There IS hope for yoof...(and I MEAN that!) His use-by date has well and truly passed IMNVHO - since he has released essentially the same album every couple of years since 1988.

Went to a gig last night at one of my fave local cafes: expat Kiwi been playing overseas for a couple of decades. Name of Mike Brosnan. I really liked him: as did the other FOUR people (who weren't part of his posse) there. I got home at 10:50 - had a review to the NZ Folk list written and sent by midnight. AND an autographed poster.

He's actually written a song about Tuatapere - yes, Tuatapere. Remember that road trip through Western Southland we did years ago? Stops at Riverton, Otautau, just out of Orepuki (tyre-change) and Colac Bay? I remember remarking at the time how incredible the Waiau River looked as we crossed it just before arriving in Tuatapere...

The yellow and pink covered book is the one I have.

I think "Lament for the Numb" was the last consistently good album he made... he's still put out some good singles after that though (particularly "Language"). Just recently got DD Smash's live album (on vinyl, unfortunately)... I remember it as having the only version of "Guilty" that I actually like, on it.

People have written songs about sillier places than Tuatapere. (Dunsandel, anyone?)