News & Musings

Crunch Time

March 10th, 2008

I am announcing there are no announcements. Until university calms down, I am taking a very quick break in the gigging department. It all boils down to the last few months when all of a sudden loads of things are due. I mean LOADS. I won’t bore you with the technicalities. I had to turn down a really groovy gig because of a massive illness, which I suppose I got because I’m worn down. I’m a happy, bubbly sort of person, so excuse me while I *yawn* and moan... Life is great. No I’m not being sarcastic. I’m really happy at the moment and things are going very well. I’m in the process of finishing up the writing on my forthcoming album, then I can get in the recording studio.

I’m also prepping for the re-vamping my live performance technique with some ultra-cool gear. This will change the way I perform and compose, so I’m really excited even though it’s a ton of hard work, re-arranging all my songs to work in this new environment. It’s a tiny secret to everyone excepts close friends at the moment. But I will inform you as the time gets close. I’ll give you an obscure clue: Andrew Bird. If you think you’ve figured it out, email me :O) I will be updating this page frequently and if an (gig) offer I can’t refuse comes along, I will post it immediately here.

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Forthcoming Christmas Shows...

November 16th, 2007

A brief reminder of some of the forthcoming shows I will be playing at. Hope to see lots of people there.

Christmas Carols at Broadstairs Event: "Students and staff are warmly invited to attend a carol service at the Church of St. Peter-in-Thanet on Monday 10th December 2007 at 5.30pm, followed by a reception with seasonal refreshments at the University's Broadstairs Campus from 6.30pm onwards. After the reception there will be a performance of original songs performed by the University's students of Commercial Music"

I am performing my own arrangement of a traditional Irish song called 'The Wexford Carol', with myself and two other wonderful vocalists, and piano. Afterwards, there will be an evening show at Horizons, where I will perform a number of my own songs.

Charity Christmas Event: Youth Performers at Rochester Cathedral: An evening of song for charity performed by (Chatham) Stagecoach children. The date is December 5th, 2007 at 1900.

I will be playing piano accompaniment for the children, and singing a solo in 'Silent Night'. Lovely!

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Backwards Piano Folly...

October 18th, 2007

You have to be a pianist to truly appreciate the (involuntary?) silliness of the set-up crew. I arrived for the gig yesterday to find the most GORGEOUS piano I've seen or played set up so that my back, yes - my back, would be towards the audience. Ack. However, the sound was great. Despite the trepidation of playing as such, the gig went really well. I had a bass guitarist help me out on a folky Hip-Hop song by Regina Spektor called 'Consequence of Sound'. This went well, though due to the bassist's nerves, the song kept speeding up, and then it was more Rap than Hip-Hop. I think you'd have to hear it to appreciate it. Most of you who know me, probably think what is she doing singing that style? It's quirky like me. I classify it as Hip-Hop because of its rhythmic quality and the sheer amount of words. It is great fun, and I love singing it.

I also performed the virgin song of mine 'Homesweet', so it was glad to have its debut. I also played an old favourite 'Orion', but a more funk version than before. As a songwriter, I've noticed that my songs continue to evolve with me, rather than staying static. Anyway, so when I sat down to sing 'Consequence.' I half-faced the audience, since there wasn't much piano involved, then for the rest I had to just turn around. This was a really weird sensation, but in a way made me more at ease, not having to look at anyone. It's okay when the audience responds. But if you look out at an audience that more closely resemble zombies than people, that's baaaad, (and it's really distracting).

I hope those who came enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed playing there . I did see a few familiar faces. Thank you. :O)

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Canterbury Music Festival, Woo Hoo! ...

October 13th, 2007

Just a quick announcement of a new gig. I'm playing at the Canterbury Music Festival in a showcase of University talent. The location is the beautiful St. Gregory's Centre for Music at 1400. I'm too busy preparing and practicing to write this. Bye and be there!!!

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All Tower of Power, All Night Long...

February 21st, 2007

Not really all night long... A few hours will fill your evening out nicely, though, if you're in the mood for some funk music. Last term was a more eclectic mix of funk and bluesy jazz stuff, but on February 28th, we will be playing at Horizons in Broadstairs, 8pm. and yes at the moment, the fusion band has dedicated themselves to playing a 'Tower of Power' tribute, with songs galore. The trumpet parts make me want to cry. *wah* ... :O)

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Our Dance Hall Days...

Dec 7th, 2006

What a surreal experience, singing backup for Jack. I don't think Wang Chung was quite as successful in the UK as it was in the USA, but over there, it was HUGE. I'm American in case any of you haven't guessed, but my Texan accent has died an abysmal death after living in the UK for 6 years. So anyway. 'Everybody Wang Chung' was a school/club standard which I grew up with. To be singing with the person who wrote that.. Well, it was mind-boggling. I am quite star-struck around Jack, but am getting better. My set went well. the typical fare of "folk-temptress" (to quote a bloody irritating newspaper article - so embarrassing!), wooing the audience with my lovely and soothing acoustic vocal stylings :O) If you haven't seen me, come on out. I guarantee you will hear something different, plus I could always use a few more fans. Big me Up! (?? What does that mean, and why do I find myself saying it and other strange catchphrases, like 'I am loving that dress, etc.'. is that the McDonald's tagline and why is it stuck in my subconscious mind like an old piece of lettuce in a back molar - Why *sob* why??)

Alex Hills was another performer who blew me away with his really great songs. He performed a song using a 'Looping' foot pedal controller (somewhat like the device Imogen Heap uses,) to great effect, layering sound upon sound. Wow... Colour me impressed. Keep an eye on this guy, I see a big future.

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Christmas Special Songwriters w/ Jack Hues...

Dec 6th, 2006

Tonight will be an evening to remember. Jack Hues will be playing classics from his Wang Chung repetoire, and some new stuff as well. I'm only singing a few songs, as the line-up is extensive, but I am doing backing vocals for Jack. I'm so excited!

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Local Talent in Spades.

Oct 30th, 2006

Okay, I admit, I had a few drinks at the gig (and by few I mean 3, tops, but then again I hardly ever drink, so three is all it takes), so I'm not 100% sure what the other band's names were. But man, oh man, were they good. You may or may not care, but in the assortment were: a folk duo - female vocals and Irish flute-thing with an acoustic guitar male accompanist. so wicked, also there was another duo of a quite alternative acoustic guitar male (on vocals as well) with a female vocalist- think of an emo Pearl Jam, Sarah Lucy Dole (I remember her because she is my fantastic pal) performed a cutting version of 'My Life', her latest songwriting endeavor, and a few others. She was blindingly good. Jack Hues played a set as well, which was astounding. All in all, there was loads of local talent, so if you are out and about in Canterbury, keep your eyes and ears open. They also might re-appear in the Orange Street Club, so keep on the go. I feel really bad I can't remember more names. I wanted to add them to myspace, but alas, methinks the lady doth drink too much.

My set went amazingly well, for me. What I mean is I was extremely happy with myself, which bodes well for the audience too. I'm my own harshest critic. I played 'Cambridge', my new old standard, 'To Find You' (a song about Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind), and 'Orion', all acoustic guitar and voice. I must say my guitar songs sound much more folk-oriented than my piano, which are really hard for me to classify. I think on the night that 'To Find You' was my best performance. I'd practiced it the most and as it's quite new, it was like a song right out of the tumble-dryer; warm and cozy.

Okay, the next event will be an exceptional Songwriting evening - a Christmas special with Jack Hues at Horizons in Broadstairs. I'll be there, as will countless other wonderful performers, so watch this space for further info.

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Orange Street Music Club's Songwriters Event...

Oct 28th, 2006

Last reminder, today is the day. Orange Street Music Club is an amazing place, especially to perform. It's atmosphere is warm, yet open and not at all claustrophobic. The artwork on the walls in phenomenal and the staff are very friendly. All in all, a lovely place to be. The workshop takes place around 1600, then the evening kick starts with some local talent. I don't have any plans decided on what I'm going to say in particular. I guess I will just describe the process of how I work, at least. I don't ascribe to any norms, so if I say what I do, and other songwriters discuss their methods as well, then lots shall be covered! Look forward to seeing you there. :O)

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What an Evening...

October 12th, 2006

Last night's gig went very well. A line-up to remember: the ever-talented Jaeger sung a variety of tender and raucous songs. She is a lovely, talented performer. Also up was Sarah Lucy Dole, with her power-house voice and haunting tunes. I played a mix, ranging from the acoustic, melancholic folk-guitar 'Cambridge' to the Rock-driven 'Stonehenge Capable' with help from the wonderful house band. On piano, I also played the song 'Orion' to an enthusiastic crowd. I definitely loved it, cannot wait for the next one. Yay!

Also, another future event to look forward to: Orange Street Music Club's Songwriter's Workshop and evening performance in Canterbury. I'm a 'special' guest, to talk on a panel alongside local songwriters and Jack Hues from Wang Chung fame. Then in the evening, I'll be performing a few numbers. How cool. It should definitely be exciting, and you have any interest in the process of songwriting, then, by all means, come along.

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Horizons Songwriters Night...

Oct 11th, 2006

Tonight's the night. 8pm, though the set-up is never on time. So you can be fashionably late and no one will mind. There will be a house band which is made up of University tutors... always amazing to watch these guys get down to business. There is also a 'Cantina' which is a dressy way of saying bar . Mmm. Fancy a pint? No, that's not an offer.

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Up and Gigging...

October 1st, 2006

Forthcoming! I will be appearing at the Horizons Songwriters event, playing several original songs on guitar and voice, and piano and voice. It should definitely be a night to look forward to. I've been working on a few new songs which I'm trying to record to a professional standard myself. Yes, females can produce as well. Who would have thunk it? Though I'm far from industry standard, the songs I churn out are highly listenable. I'm excited if a bit nervous about Wednesday. Am always a tiny bit nervous performing in front of peers. I love performing, but doing it in front of other musicians and tutors, as well as performing songs of your own inner-workings, can be very nerve-wracking! I'll be okay. If you see me and want to give me hug, then do!

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New Website Launch...

September 26th, 2006

Welcome and hello. It's been a long and tedious year, juggling the miscellaneous assortment of my life. Finally, this website is up and running! Here to give you the scoop on all things Christina Cary related. All things gig-worthy will be here for your attention, hope you enjoy! Thanks for visiting. :O) *rubs hands together in evil glee* All looks promising!

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