So it has been a while since I have blogged and I am going to try and ease myself back into it with some music recommendations.

This is a broad music recommendation because these are music finds from the last few months and I must nod to those around me that are currently infleuncing my soundtrack.

The XX self named album is great espically for night time in particular late night talks over tea or vodka…. The newest single from the album  is Crystalised and another song I would recommend is ‘Heart skipped a Beat’ , they are playing in Tripod in December 19th.

I have only recently started to listen to Bat for Lashes and I am eagerly waiting for her to scheldue an Irish gig, but of you are new to BFL check out ‘Sleep Alone’.

One female singer songwriter that I have been listening to  for a while is Little Boots she played The Academy Friday night where she performed a new song she had written after seeing Twilight New Moon called ‘Echoes’ she may be able to get you moving with Remedy and Earthquake but this new song really shows the strength of her voice and her superb songwriting abilities.

Since we are on the topic of New Moon the soundtrack has been on my ipod for a few weeks now and contrary to what many music critics may say my favourite song is theDeath Cab for Cutie ‘Meet me on the Equinox’ it has been said that once DCFC are out of the way, the soundtracks stronger songs come forward but if you want to check out Death Cab for Cutie away from Twilight listen to ‘I will possess your heart’.

Returning back to female singer songwriter one of my favourites at the moment is Marina and the Diamonds she recently palyed a gig at The Academy, before releasing her latest single Mowgoli Road she had the enitre audience singing all of her songs back to her. Her videos are superb Mowgli Road , Obession and I am not a Robot are all worth checking out on her myspace.

Finally, an Irish band I would like to receommend is Heritage Centre a favouite of mine is ‘I like I will protect you’ unfortunately they have no upcoming gigs at the moment but keep an eye on their myspace.

The past few days have brought rain winds and shine, so how will this weekends weather shape up, loud, fun and memories. Anyone going to Oxegen leaves the weather at home with their freshly made tea, warm towels and dry socks.

So, for what it’s all about the music right?  Here a break down on what I am hoping to see this weekend.

Friday Dirty Epics*, Fight Like Apes, Duke Special,Lily Allen*, The Script, Snowpatrol* and Blur

Saturday Regina Spektor, Pet Shop Boys,Squeeze, Blizzards,Morrission, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Elbow, Bloc Party and Kings of Leon*.

Sunday Florence and the Machine*, Katy Perry, White Lies, The Ting Tings, Calvin Harris Lady Gaga, Paolo Nutini, Razorlight and the Killers.

* Last year I was a big fan of the Dirty Epics but their performance was seriously lacking a but of what Sarah Jane Wai O’Flynn is know for that something special, hopefully it will be there this year. Loving the Lily Allen album hoping that her performance is as good as the album. I sawSnowpatrol playing the O2 a few months back, Lighbody’s voice was missing its deep huskyness that I love. Last year Kings of Leons performance did not live up to expectations and was a bit disappointed, however this year they are headlining the main stage so here’s hoping. Finally, I am keeping the best till last that is Florence and the Machine. Their album ‘Lungs’ is brilliant no need for the skip button for this one.

For those of ye that are heading to Oxegen this year see ye there!

This is definitely one of my favourite websites at the moment. Probably best described as a cousin of “PostSecret”. This site however leaves anyone who wants to post anonymously to do us. Some of the stories are laugh out loud others will draw a tear from the driest of eyes.

Take a look for yourself at http://thelivesofothers.wordpress.com/

This just arrived into my inbox, for ye Munster Leinster fans that can’t make the match. Enjoy!

Munster v Leinster fan allocation Croke Park

New England Aquarium

Bridge on Charles River

Taken from the Boston Duck Tour Boat….

Pondering Frog

Frog at the Frog Pond in Boston Commons.

Chicago Skyline

This was taken from the Hancock Building in Chicago.

Ferrris Wheel

Chicago had the very first Ferris Wheel, made by a man called Ferris hence the name. This is taken at the Navy Pier.

Fireworks

Fireworks from Navy Pier on our last night in Chicago.

For those who intend to be kissing under the miseltoe this year, please read the below link to be aware of the health risks asociated with it!!

From the BBC http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7772902.stm

A young Chinese woman was left partially deaf following a passionate kiss from her boyfriend.

The 20-something from Zhuhai in Guangdong province arrived at hospital having completely lost the hearing in her left ear, said local reports.

The incident prompted a series of articles in the local media warning of the dangers of excessive kissing.

“While kissing is normally very safe, doctors advise people to proceed with caution,” wrote the China Daily.

This video has been around for quiet a while but every year it buts my effort of Christmas Lights to shame.

If you are looking for festive cheer…this might help!