Music Videos - Why so late?

Finally! It's been a while coming, but we are finally able to watch Britney's 'Hold It Against Me' video in its entirety.  There seems to be an odd trend for releasing music videos after the song has been released.  I'm not necessarily convinced that it's a good idea but it hasn't hindered the success of the song.  The same goes for Lady Gaga, whose song 'Born This Way' is selling massive amounts globally.  Gaga's video is apparently going to emerge next week. 

Fashion: Philip Browne

Philip Browne has sold quality menswear since 1986.  His store in the centre of Norwich is a treasure trove of designer fashion.  Philip is a real character, respected in the industry and he has dedication and passion for his trade.  He is a joy to talk to because he has lived and breathed fashion for such a long time.  It also helps that he adores Vivienne Westwood as I do.  As we entered the store, he was showing a customer an item from his collection of typically outragous t-shirts, designed by Vivienne and telling stories of the most unlikely people who are his regular customers. 

His knowledge of Westwood is amazing and he collects many pieces which he frames and displays in his shop.  His enthusiasm for the 'outrageous' items is hilarious.  If you're ever in the Norwich area, I urge you to visit his store.  If you are lucky, the man himself will be there - and Philip and his assistants will provide the kind of customer service that is rare. 

Philip also has a website: http://www.philipbrownemenswear.co.uk/

The Inbetweeners Rude Road Trip

If you are going to do anything for Red Nose Day, download the hilarious 'The Inbetweeners Rude Road Trip' from iTunes.  It's crude, rude and a treat for fans of the show.

The Brit's - my choices

Who do you think deserves to win an award tonight?

Cheryl Cole has had yet another fantastic year, but is she likley to win the Best British Female category?  I think this award could well go to Ellie Goulding, as she has been a firm favourite with music fans and critics alike.

Best British Male is likely to go Tinie Tempah or Plan B.  It's hard to choose as they are both great artists in their own right.

The British Breakthrough Act category is an interesting mix of artists - but I have a feeling that Mumford & Sons will win after a fantastic year.

I have no idea who will win the best British Single, as it is based on the votes from the general public.  I want Florence to win, but I think Matt Cardle might swing it.

Take That could walk away with the best British Group award.  Robbie William's return has not affected the lads success as their current album sold by the bucket load.

The Mastercard British Album of the Year is likely to go to Mumford & Sons.

Eminem would be my guess for International Male Solo Artist.  He's not gay enough for me, but some people like him.

I would love for Kylie Minogue to win the International Female Solo Artist - but it will ultimately go to either Rihanna or Katy Perry.

International Breakthrough Act is a hard one to suss.  I can't imagine the Glee Cast will win.  Perhaps Bruno Mars?  International Group - I'd like The Script to walk away with the award.  International Album - Cee Lo Green gets my vote.  British Producer - Stuart Price.

Laura Linney

I haven't seen any of the award winning series 'The Big C' yet.  However, I will be catching up and writing my very own review soon. 

I simply love Laura because of her fantastic portrayal of Mary Ann Singleton in Armistead Maupin's 'Tales of the City'. It hit UK and US screens way back in 1993/94. Based on Armistead's book of the same title, the mini series was super sexy, highly addictive and it caused some controversy at the time.

Amazon are selling both 'Tales of the City' DVD sets at bargain prices, under £5 each.  Click on the below links.

Tales Of The City - Series 1 [DVD]

More Tales Of The City [DVD]

Lady Gaga - Born This Way...makes no3 in the UK Singles chart.

'Born This Way' sold over 61,000 downloads in the UK in just 34 hours.  That's an amazing feat.  However, it seems that not everyone is pleased by its success with some journalists already labelling it as being a flop for not hitting the top spot.  It needs to be noted that the number 1 and 2 places were both high-sellers by normal standards - AND I'm sure it will hit the peak next week.

The other slightly negative story surrounding the song is that many people (including Madonna's brother) are saying that it sounds like Madge's 'Express Yourself'.  What do you think?  Leave your comments below.

Brighton Rock(s)

If you have stumbled across my blog whilst searching for a review of the new Helen Mirren movie 'Brighton Rock', I apologise.  'Brighton Rocks' is actually a statement.  I hadn't been to Brighton for about 8 years.  I used to visit regularly for fun times and occasionally assisting my photographer friend with exhibitions.  I was slightly cautious after all these years, hoping that none of the charm had vanished.

I booked us into the Radisson Blu - which was previously called the Royal York Hotel (http://www.royalyorkbrighton.co.uk/) .  It was a bit of a risk because the hotel had mixed reviews, but the location is good and Radisson Blu hotels usually don't disappoint.  Checking-in was easy as the staff are efficient, smiley and polite.  Our room was at the back of the hotel and it had a fantastic view of the pier.  As we found out later, unfortunately it also had a fantastic view of a nightclub and directly below is a coach stop.  The lack of double-glazing gave us concern.  Our room was styled very nicely with solid pieces of furniture, a double bed (which was possibly a little too solid), a table and 2 chairs and some gorgeous lined curtains to block out the morning light.  The en suite was impressive; a nice wide sink and a spacious shower.  Though the interior designer should have paid attention as the shower head angle caused water to splash on the floor - and the sink tap had a similar issue.  We didn't dine in the hotel as we had other plans, but we were impressed with the live jazz band which we caught briefly on our way out. To sum it up - great location but ask for a room at the front or you will need ear-plugs to cope with the noise. 7/10.

I've always wanted to go and have afternoon tea at The Grand (http://www.devere.co.uk/our-locations/the-grand.html  ) , the famous victorian hotel.  I was expecting big things but I'm afraid to say that it didn't live up to my expectations.  The interior was quite impressive because of the classic structure, the high ceilings, guilding and mouldings.  Though it was also clear that is a lack of regular maintenance.  The antique furniture has seen better days.  You could clearly see chips and scratches and it didn't quite live up the quality you would expect for a premium hotel.  My scones were dry and they didn't provide enough clotted cream (which is always the best part!). Shabby. 4/10.

Brighton has so many restaurants and bars - so much so that it can be hard to choose.  On a friends recommendation we had dinner at Pho (http://www.phocafe.co.uk/locations/brighton) , a great vietnamese restaurant.  How would I describe it? Like Wagamama but better! 8/10.  Whilst wandering through the lanes we dropped into Havana (http://www.havana.uk.com/index.htm) , had a cocktail (or 2) and we were so impressed that we went back for dinner.  I had baked cod, which was completely delicious.  The staff were attentive and professional.  The interior was spectacular.  Wooden blinds, ceiling fans, polished wood - it felt like a world away from Brighton. 8/10.

Of course, any Brighton tourist must go to the Royal Pavillion (http://www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/RoyalPavilion/Pages/home.aspx).  We paid for an audio tour.  You won't believe your eyes at some of the antiques and ornaments in there. BTW - The audio tour is brilliant. 8/10.