The new year has got off to a flyer hence the lack of updates on here. Here is a not very comprehensive catchup.
It started off with a fun few days in Berlin with Amy and Matt as the most excellent of hosts. The combination of snow, fireworks and beer equated to some good times. Many thanks to Andy for the epic effort of driving there in the crazy winter conditions.
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In January I had my first commission from the Spanish newspaper, El Pais. to photograph the artist Yinka Shonibare. He is responsible for the current Fourth Plinth installation amongst other great pieces. I first saw his work when I was visiting Helsinki in 2003 and his work resonated with me as much then as it does now. It was a privilege to photograph him in his studio.
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Last week the NME published a page of my photographs from behind the scenes of the video for Crazy for You by Best Coast. It was a great day full of feline fun and crazy props.
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The Stool Pigeon commissioned me to shoot Anna Calvi live at Hoxton Hall. It was fun to shoot some live stuff again, it has been a while and Hoxton Hall is a charismatic little venue. The new issue is available all over the place.
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I also found time to move house, spend a weekend in Yorkshire, start planning a short film with my friend Andy and find some old undeveloped films. One of them included this Twin Peaks-esque shot of Male Bonding at the Lexington. They are off to New York to record there new album soon.
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One final note. Today (14th Feb) is the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Exeter Cavern, a true independent music venue that I considered a second home for many years. I am indebted to this place not only for introducing me to some great music and allowing me to hone my photographic skills but also for the many great friends I made there. Some played in bands, some worked behind the bar and some were just passionate about music and life. Many of my best friends and people I work with today can be traced back to the Cavern and for that I am truly thankful.
Envy at the Cavern - 2004
Congratulations to Pippa, Dave and everyone at the Cavern (past and present). Its great to think that places like this can still exist.
