Jamie Webster - Live O2 Academy Glasgow

 Sometimes, just sometimes, the stars align and for a minute or two and you feel like the luckiest guy on the planet.  Well, that was me, that was how I felt walking out of The Glasgow O2 Academy at about half ten on Friday the 10th November.  A blistering night of music and stories from Liverpool songwriter Jamie Webster lit the fire to help  take the chill out of a cold night in Glasgow's south side.

Now, my only knowledge of the latest scouse troubadour to take Glasgow by storm, was that he led the chants of the Anfield faithful as Liverpool conquered Europe in Madrid 2019, and sealed their first English premiership title in 2020.   Cover versions, football chants and a healthy loathing of the current Tory government and their policies, in fact probably Tories in general.  

My 15 year old son has become a huge fan of Webster’s music since I first introduced him to his sounds when then European champions Liverpool played Napoli at Murrayfield in 2019.   Since then he has been an avid fan and listener.  So when I picked up 2 tickets for the O2 in the day of the gig - you can imagine, he was buzzing.

From the lights being dimmed to the strains of Fatboy  Slims “Praise You", the raucous Glasgow crowd needed no invitation to launch into a chorus of “Here we, Here We, Here We Fuckin’ Go".  As Jamie and the band strolled on stage, he was given the welcome akin to a champion returning to his home town.  The stage was set and  the O2 was crackling just waiting for that switch to be flicked.

The opening chords to Voice of the Voiceless sent another charge across the Glasgow crowd.

I cant speak 

I cant dream

I cant change it so you see the world like me

But there’s a pulse

So still I try.............

The O2 just erupted.

From in front of the stage, to the balconies and behind the bar – the euphoria exploded.  There were no voiceless there, it was a united chorus, movement and cause.   Make no mistake, there was Something in the Air, a synergy that flowed the entire night.

Jamie gave a breath-taking performance along with his band.   A brilliant set list ranging from his early song writing days and cover versions, to his collaboration with Billy Bragg and his most recent album kept everyone lucky enough to be there in the palm of his hands.

The gig passed way too quickly, 18 songs including the encores were perfect.

I walked into the venue not knowing any of the songs or what to expect, the playlist my son made for the drive over was my only gauge.   I walked back to my car after the gig with a spring in my step and a wish to relive the entire night again.

It looks like I’ve got some catching up to do with Jamie Webster songs and I honestly cant wait.  If like me you’re new to his music I promise you wont be disappointed.

Catheter Ablation - My Story

No matter how many visits I’ve made to the hospital, and my specialist heart care team over the years, there is always a feeling of dread and uncertainty attached to it. Friday, 4th August 2023 was no different.  The wait for my catheter ablation operation was over, and I was being admitted to the CDU at the Golden Jubilee hospital in Clydebank for the procedure. As someone who worries constantly, any visit to a hospital; especially one that requires a trip to theatre, will play on my mind for some time.

I have built a really strong relationship with the experts who help manage my condition. The team have been invaluable to me and my family throughout my journey.  The Scottish Congenital Adult Congenital Cardiac Services (SACCS) team at the Golden Jubilee are an incredible group of specialised practitioners who help guide me through my appointments, niggles, physical and mental struggles.   

The ablation procedure was required as treatment following my diagnosis of Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter last year.   Back then, I was admitted to hospital during my routine check up with the SACCS team.  I underwent a cardioversion procedure in March 2022 to help reset my heart rhythm.   The Ablation referral and subsequent procedure is part of the specialists plan to help provide the best quality of life for me to enjoy with family, and in every day activities.   That includes working, exercising and enjoying gigs, watching football and socialising.

Link to British Heart Foundation - Ablation Info

On arrival at the CDU ward, I was met by a nurse who showed me to my room.  I then had to don the hospital issue gown, but thankfully I managed to avoid the paper pants combo.  I chatted through my medication with the nurse and had an ECG taken as part of the admissions process.  After that, it was a waiting game for my wife and I, until it was my turn to go to the Cath Lab.

My wife Linda and I scrolled through social media, news stories, set up our fantasy football teams and spoke about anything other than my visit to the hospital.   When the doctor carrying out the procedure came in to speak to us, I could feel my anxiety building and see the impact it had on Linda, as the worry and anxiety started to show on her too.

Just after noon I was taken to the Cath Lab and prepped for the operation.   Cold gel pads and sensors were applied to my back, chest and sides.  An oxygen monitor was clipped on to my finger, blood pressure cuff wrapped around my leg and a mask over my mouth and nose.  Some bits had to be shaved before they could start the procedure, but I was relaxed, sedated and fast asleep long before the catheter tubes were inserted into my leg vein.

The expectation that I would be awake during this procedure was a significant worry, but thankfully I was sedated almost entirely through the ablation.   I recall some instances of interaction with the specialists and a few times my heart rate was increased as part of the arrhythmia mapping, but overall my three hours in the lab, very much passed me by.

On my return to the ward, I had to lie flat for around an hour to help my leg wound heal.  Gradually the nurses were able to sit me up in bed and allowed me to eat something.    Honestly, a wholemeal sandwich with ham, never tasted so good.  That, along with 2 cups of tea, was just perfect.

After around 3 hours in recovery, I was able to sit in a fully upright position. My nurse took me on a short walk around the ward to make sure I was steady on my feet.  By 8pm I was on my way home to recover with family.

How am I now?

I’m not as stiff as I was on Friday or Saturday, but still quite sore, tender and swollen around the operation site in my groin.   The bruising makes for some quite incredible artistic design and I still feel a bit vulnerable.  Every movement is calculated, just to make sure I don't bump or aggravate my wound.  I am taking short walks locally to try to rebuild my confidence and work towards reaping the benefits of the work, dedication and care offered by the NHS team at the Golden Jubilee.

AM Frequency Playlist - Intro

The AM Frequency Playlist.  Introducing a new series of blogs, capturing the completely random, eclectic and varied songbook that keeps me captivated on my commute to work.  The plan is to build out a collection of spotify playlists, sharing some background on the songs, maybe adding why I like them, and any tenuous link with anything, anywhere in time.

As someone who suffers from anxiety and OCD, I regularly overthink every situation, moment and interaction.  The blog will act as a wee insight into my music tastes, but more importantly for me, I hope it will help keep me writing, and being more in the moment on my journey.

The way in which many of us go about our day to day commute has probably changed significantly since the Covid pandemic struck across the world.  Hybrid working was previously reserved for certain types of roles in specific industry sectors, but the globally enforced lockdown changed the perception of how many roles could still be fulfilled.  For me, at the moment I have a cosy 40/60 office vs home work pattern with my employer.  2 days in the office and 3 from home.  So, you’re unlikely to hear me complaining.

The reduction in time spent on public transport means I’ve lost some connection to that long established ritual that many commuters have; The Morning Playlist. Whether it started with a Sony Walkman on the way to school, portable CD player, mini disc or any number of the MP3 devices and more recently streaming services, i feel the chance to comfort yourself with a chorus of songs to prepare you for the day ahead has always been important.  My journey from the local train station to Glasgow city centre and subsequent walk to my desk only takes about 35 minutes, just enough time for 8 – 10 songs to serenade me through the streets, sights and smells of Glasgow as it welcomes natives and visitors for another day.

So, what can you expect?

Hopefully there is enough to keep us interested.  Jazz, Punk, Dance, Rap, Country, Crooners Pop and Indie music.   No doubt some tangents too if I spot something on my commute or if a song triggers a memory.   Pictures, I'll post pictures, mainly of in and around Glasgow,  but no doubt other places and people will filter in too.  I definitely want it to be a 2 way street too, if there’s something you’re listening to at the gym or on the bus, share it and I can get it added to my list.

Hope you enjoy & I hope you get as much out of it as I do.

AM Frequency Spotify Playlist

James Forrest - The Lennoxtown Academy Alumnus

 With the opening fixture of our league campaign under a week away, the match against Wolves at the Aviva stadium served as a good exercise in building momentum towards our challenge of retaining the Scottish title.  There was more than enough action in defence and in attack for us to over analyse, yeah we could be more clinical with the opportunities we carve out, or more switched on in defence, but the match in Dublin has to be seen as more minutes in the players legs and a day out for Celtic fans.

Before Brendan Rodgers and the squad turn their full attention to competitive football, Celtic have one more match to negotiate before the championship flag is unfurled against Ross County.    Athletic Club Bilbao will make the journey from the Basque Country to Glasgow's east end to formally close our pre-season activities as well as help our long serving winger James Forrest celebrate his testimonial.

It is fitting that the club who established “The One Club Award", which recognises  loyalty, commitment, responsibility, sportsmanship and respect.  All values the Basque giants hold dear, were chosen for this occasion.   Athletic themselves celebrated our greatest ever captain back in 2019 when Billy McNeill was added to their list of One Club Award winners at a ceremony held at half-time in front of a sell out San Mamés stadium.   For this gesture alone the team and fans making the journey to Glasgow are sure to receive a warm welcome on Tuesday night from the Celtic support.

Since making his debut for the first team on the 1st May 2010, James Forrest has become one of the most decorated players in our clubs history.  With over 460 appearances, over 100 goals and many, many more assists, Forrest has embraced the challenge of what is expected as a winger in the green & white hoops.  Signed from our youth team in 2009, Forrest is another fine example of our player development from young talent, to first team and international recognition.

Forrest's greatest run of form coincided with Celtics stranglehold of Scottish football between 2016-17 and 2019-20, when we secured an unprecedented Quadruple Treble.   James was pivotal in the explosive forward play under the direction of Brendan Rodgers and then from 2019 with the transition to Neil Lennon.

In an excerpt used from the official Celtic Treble Treble book, I wrote;

An Academy Graduate comes of age.

When Celtic made the trip to Perth to play St Johnstone in October 2018, the team & one player in particular put on a show for the faithful followers in the stands.   An incredible performance had Celtic 5 goals ahead before half time. Odsonne Edouard, & Callum McGregor both hit the net as we ran out 6-0 winners, but it was Academy Graduate James Forrest who stole the show, with 4 goals in a devastating 30 minute spell in the first half.

James Forrest's performance that day & his ability to be in the right place, at the right time, in big matches throughout the season, helped him secure Player of the year awards from fellow players & writers. A magnificent way to celebrate the continued youth development from the Celtic academy during our Treble Treble victory.

Whether it was that performance, his last Minute winner against Shakhtar Karagandy, the countless important goals at Hampden or his strike in the 5-0 drubbing of our city rivals to clinch the title, Forrest has been a mainstay of a dominant Celtic team, building for further success.

The match will be a great opportunity to welcome back our champions, but it will also be special to celebrate a man who has helped deliver so much success at Celtic Park.

The Artist, The Emancipator and the Exhibition City

When street artist Banksy announced his Cut and Run exposition being held at the Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow, I am not going to lie I was absolutely thrilled.   So intrigued, in fact, I think I WhatsApped my entire family (in-laws and all) to let them know about it.  The opportunity to understand the mindset of the world famous and illusive Banksy as well as witness some of the tools of his trade was not only fascinating for me, it was a major coup for my home city of Glasgow.  Me?   I had to buy tickets for the first Saturday of the expo.

Glasgow is no stranger when it comes to exhibitions.  Our historic status as second city of the Empire means Glasgow was often at the forefront of the pomp and pageantry that goes with putting on a lavish show.  From the 1888 International Exhibition of Industry, Science and Art, which helped fund our world renowned Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, to the Empire Exhibition at Bellahouston Park in 1938, Glasgow was the staging place for countless showcase events.

After the managed decline in the city and the loss of many of its heavy industrial output, Glasgow was left in the shadow and had to rebuild as well as rebrand our global credentials.  A century on from hosting our first great exhibition, Glasgow was centre stage for the Garden Festival in 1988, attracting over 4 million visitors to the city.   This success was followed when our dear green place was christened the European City of Culture in 1990.  Over 30 years on and Glasgow continues to flourish and is recognised globally as centre of excellence for development, innovation and of course a very warm welcome.

The tough economic downturn in Glasgow after the 2nd world war as well as our long history of protest, reform and deep desire for social justice perhaps played a small part in Banksy choosing Glasgow to host his exhibition.  As I walked through the display at GOMA it was striking absorbing the commentary provided with each stencil and exhibit.   That need to question everything is easily translated from the social commentary that Banksy puts so eloquently into his artwork.  We can all interpret differently, for some it will be grafitti, for others it will be art.   For me it is a platform of protest and desire for change. 

Banksy makes sure to point out that in his mind you will only see one masterpiece as part of the exhibition.  That wonder can be witnessed every day in Glasgow and is stationed outside the host venue.   The statue dedicated to Arthur Wellesley, The Duke of Wellington has been the centre point of Glasgows ability to never take itself too seriously over the decades.   A traffic cone placed on the Duke's head has been a mainstay of Glasgow life for almost 50 years.

The Iron Duke, famous for his victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo and leading 19th century Britain as Prime Minister on 2 occasions, provides another beautiful contradiction in Glasgow.  For a Tory politician to have a statue in the centre of our city is one thing, but for the same man to be one of the leading voices for the Catholic Emancipation Act perhaps sheds some light on the power of driving much needed change.

Whether you see the cone on Wellingtons head as art or vandalism is your choice, similar to the global impact of Banksy and his works.  One thing I will say is do your best to go along & take in the exhibition - it is a real eye opener into the mystique behind the murals Banksy delivers.

Celtic Park Stadium Tour. The History and Emotion

The close season gives fans a chance to recharge batteries and reflect on the season just ended.  For Celtic fans we have a few more news stories to digest over the summer, with Brendan Rodgers returning  as manager and the club cashing in on one of our most dynamic players, selling Jota to the ever expanding Saudi Pro League.

Even with all that going on, the need to get a fix of Celtic in any way whatsoever is still foremost in many fans minds.   If you’re one of the fortunate ones to be travelling to Japan or Dublin for the pre-season friendlies I am sure the occasions will be etched in your memory forever.   For those staying a lot closer to Paradise, that fix might be taking in the tour at Celtic Park.   For me, the tour has become an annual summer event ever since I started going to the matches with my children in 2011.  This summer is no different.

A lot has changed on the Celtic Stadium tour recently, and to be honest it's for the better.   The new sports lounge nestled in the south west corner provides a welcome that is fitting with a club our size, and one that continues to entertain visitors from around the world.  The lounge gives visitors an opportunity to shelter from the summer rain in Glasgow, enjoy snacks and refreshments before and after the tour, as well as taking in the memorabilia from matches through pictures and pennants from our global travels over the years.

The tour itself is a just a magnificent and at times emotional walk through the historic achievements of one of the worlds most decorated football teams.  The collection of silverware and medals each with their own story is enough to give you goose bumps.   From humble beginnings in small parish hall less than ten minutes walk from the stadium, to European champions and our most recent world record 8th domestic treble, our guide Stephen provided the commentary as we followed in the footsteps of the giants of our club.  From Walfrid, Maley and McGrory to Stein, McNeill, McStay Larsson and Kyogo  - it really is something special.

From the trophies of the boardroom, to the Lisbon lions and then the home dressing room, Stephen not only gave the historical context of our achievements, he added in his own personal experiences of following Celtic from a young age; for me the very fabric of what makes Celtic fans, those stories behind the matches and the memories.

The walk down the famous Celtic Park tunnel opens up to the wide expanse of our impressive 60,000+ seated stadium.  The modern theatre is testimony to the fans who invested heavily when Fergus McCann arrived in 1994 and steered the team and club into the 21st century and our modern day dominance of Scottish football.

From the dugouts you get a pitch side view of one of the most lauded stadiums in world football, but can only imagine the crescendo that would spur the players on every matchday.  The tour then wraps up in the directors box before heading back through the main stand to the sports lounge where you have the opportunity to relax and reflect on the tour.

No matter how many times I do the tour, it will always pull on my heartstrings having the opportunity to listen and see the story of Celtic.

NCAA Dublin 2023 - Irish Calling

Late August will see The Aviva stadium in Dublin become the epicentre of the college football world, as a sell out crowd welcomes the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in their opening match of the NCAA football season against the Navy Midshipmen.  The 2023 season opener will be the eighth instalment of the college football classic in Dublin and the third match up of these two football heavyweights in Ireland.

The Aer Lingus College Football Classic has become an integral part of the global expansion of American Football outside the USA.  The match on 26th August will see over 40,000 International fans making their way to the Irish capital.  Such was the demand to attend the showpiece event tickets had to be balloted through a lottery, leaving thousands of fans disappointed.

The desire for live, competitive American football fixtures in Europe has saw the popularity of the sport expand considerably over the last 15 years.  Dublin has joined London and Munich in opening its doors to receive the bright lights of Americas Game this side of the Atlantic ocean.

Notre Dame v Navy represents one of the classic rivalries at college football level, the annual contest dates back to 1927 with the long standing tradition that was only briefly interrupted during the Covid season in 2020. The rivalry is built more on a competitive mutual respect, rather than the fierce hostility associated with the likes of Michigan Wolverines and Ohio State Buckeyes.  Although The Fighting Irish have held the upper hand in terms of results with a 43 year winning streak which stretched back to 1963.   The Midshipmen have enjoyed more success recently since their dramatic win in 2007, adding back to back wins in 2009-2010, followed by another victory in 2016.

Both teams have a strong tradition in preparing college athletes for the transition to graduate life, pro-football and the NFL.  Hall of fame Quarterback Roger Staubach won 2 Superbowls with Dallas after being drafted from Navy, while the San Francisco 49rs were led to a Superbowl winning dynasty courtesy of former fighting Irish QB Joe Montana.  The success stories are not consigned to history, more recently David Givens, Justin Tuck and Joe Cardona have all secured Superbowl rings this century after being drafted from their respective alma mater.

So, what can fans lucky enough to be in Dublin expect?   Well, pretty much everything and anything from Pep Rallies to tailgating and marching bands, although free Alcohol and food at the match again this year might be a dream too far.   For the fans making the pilgrimage from the US to the fair city of Dublin there is obviously the opportunity to connect with their ancestral roots, as well as taking in the world renowned Guinness storehouse or the Teeling Whiskey distillery tour.

Dublin also offers an up close tour of the 1916 Rebellion and subsequent war for independence from the GPO in O’Connell street to the emotional tours of Glasnevin cemetery or Kilmainham Gaol. After the match and many tours you will also have the incredible pubs and traditional Irish music to sign off the day in style.