Insects Vs Sinister Fairies

I've just discovered the work of Artist Tessa Farmer.
She depicts a world where tiny, sinister, skeletal fairies are at battle with our world.
They battle with insects and collectively take down bigger prey like Hedgehogs, Rats and Snakes.
It's fascinating, atmospheric and disturbing stuff invoking feelings of childhood nightmares and evil lurking just out of sight.
I've become an instant fan of her work and hope I get the chance to check some out in person soon.
There's an interview with her over at the Saatchi website and you can find her official site at tessafarmer.com

GAS Strikes Again!! (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome)

I only sold my Fender '62 American Reissue Jaguar a couple of weeks ago (some pics here and here) but I've already fallen in love with this new release from Gibson.
The 50th Anniversary 1960 ES-335TD is a thing of absolute beauty.
This Gibson Custom Shop reissue is based on the late 1960 version of the 335 which many consider to be the best version of this iconic guitar ever made.
Looks like the Custom Shop are really pushing the boat out on this model with a choice of three finishes and with period correct hardware including a pair of PAF-style 57 Classic humbucking pickups.
I've always wanted to own a genuine Gibson 335 and this looks like the one to get....if it wasn't for one thing....you've guessed it, the price!
Prices start at $5,645 and rise to $6,115 depending on the finish.
Lots more info and pictures to be found over at the Gibson website

Fantastic Architecture

This blog post has been reposted all over the place but it really does feature some quite remarkable and inspirational buildings (as well as some pretty rubbish novelty/amusement park stuff).
When Art successfully meets Architecture the results can be quite spectacular.
Below are a few of my favourites, original blog post can be found over at InstantShift together with the full source information for the images used.

Great Compilation Album....

Forge Your Own Chains - Heavy Psychedelic Ballads and Dirges (1968-1974)

This has got be one of the best compilations I've listened to for a long time, I can't believe this has had such a low key release!
I've had this on more or less constant repeat for a week now and it keeps getting better. Highly Recommended.

Tracklisting:
1. Top Drawer “Song of a Sinner” 8:44
2. Sensational Saints “How Great Thou Art” 3:35
3. East of Underground “Smiling Faces Sometimes” 6:27
4. D.R. Hooker “Forge Your Own Chains” 4:45
5. Shin Jung Hyun and the Men feat. Jang Hyun “Twilight” 5:40
6. T. Zchiew and The Johnny “Let Yourself Be Free” 3:46
7. The Strangers “Two To Make A Pair” 2:52
8. Damon “Don't You Feel Me” 2:36
9. Ellison “Strawberry Rain” 5:33
10. Morly Grey “Who Can I Say You Are” 3:45
11. Shadrack Chameleon “Don't Let It Get You Down” 4:44
12. Ofege “It's Not Easy” 4:25
13. Ana Y Jaime “Nina Nana” 3:18
14. Kourosh Yaghmaei “Hajm-e Khaali” 2:42
15. Baby Grandmothers “Somebody's Calling My Name” 9:13

The compilation has been produced, annotated and researched by Egon and is released on the consistently great "Now Again" Record label.
If you act quickly the CD & LP comes with a free 7" while stocks last (well at least it does from Stones Throw online store).