Sound Screen: Merry Christmas from Sound Screen

As a well-wishing exercise that doubles up into a call-to-arms, I wrote a little piece on the big day to drum up a little more support for our under-staffed yet promising website.

Click here to read all about it.

Leeds Guide: Interview - Dylan Moran

In my highest-profile task to date, I interviewed Dylan Moran about life and how everything is going in the build-up to his new stand-up gig next year.

Click here to read more, though it's also published in the last Leeds Guide of 2010 - my first thing ever in magazine print!

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Billy Ray Cyrus

The father of a now-greater star will never be forgotten for the smash-hit single he gave the world. Or should that be 'inflicted'?

Go here right now for more about the song.

Sound Screen: Album Retrospective - Beautiful Freak (Eels)

It was the album that launched Eels, but was it a debut worth remembering

Click here for a look at a retrospective about 1996 album Beautiful Freak.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Super Furry Animals

Everyone’s heard the name, but can they name the music? You'll've heard plenty of it without even realising, I think.

Click here to read more in this week's feature.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - The Mock Turtles

You know when companies insist on finding a good song and then go and bury it along with their corporate branding? The Mock Turtles certainly do.

Click here to read more.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - KC and the Sunshine Band

KC and the Sunshine Band proved that you really could get your funk on without you even meaning to; their music is just that damn infectious.

Click here to read more!

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Eric Carmen

Eric Carmen is responsible for one of the most depressing yet powerful songs of all time.

Not sure what it is? Click here to read more about him.

Sound Screen: Album Retrospective - Moon Safari (Air)

I love Air; they make my top five list (perhaps top three) every time I have to name the bands I love. For this week's album retrospective, I look at the release that made me fall in love with them.

Click here for my reasons.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Minnie Riperton

There's no way you'll have never heard Minnie Riperton's work. Then again, there's only one way to confirm this.

Click here to hear some of her songs and read more about the great Chicagoan star.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Miscellaneous Party LOLs

I spent ages racking my brain as to an idea for my next playlist - one that didn't focus on one band, but a theme. Luckily, I made a playlist last weekend for a friend's birthday and it worked a treat, and with good feedback today I decided to add to it and convert it into a piece for Sound Screen.

Click here to sample its delights, if you have Spotify (and you should).

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Lou Bega

With this song, people were able to get inside the mind of a German Italian-Ugandan player and his harem of women, or the fantasies of a lonely man. You be the judge.

Click here to return to 1999.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Commodores

I've always had a big thing for the Commodores, though it's only in recent years that even I've realised their full back catalogue. Time to teach the masses, I guess.

Click here for a short look into the band.

Sound Screen: Album Retrospective - Lost Horizons (Lemon Jelly)

In my first album retrospective (or album review that lacks too much contemporaneousness), I look at Lost Horizons, a Mercury Music Prize nominee from 2003.

Click here to find out more.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - The Buggles

The Buggles buggered up their longevity as a band, though they'll certainly be remembered for one thing.

Click here to read more about the band in my latest piece.

Leeds Guide: Comedy review - An Evening with Dara O Briain

After working hard to get local work experience with the excellent Leeds Guide, I was handed a pair of free tickets to watch Dara O Briain at the Grand Theatre in Leeds. Needless to say, it was an excellent routine.

Click here to find out why.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - The Vapors

Turning Japanese isn't exactly a forgettable song, which is why it's under the spotlight this week for One Hit Wonderland on Sound Screen.

Click here for more.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - The Rembrandts

...yeah, this one's pretty special. I'm not exactly the biggest fan of this song.

Click here to read more about the tune.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Die Mensch-Machine

My love of Kraftwerk knows no bounds, so this one was an easy one to work on, mostly from my own knowledge backed up with research, taking me about two hours. It's probably my strongest (or at least most comprehensive) Spotify playlist to date, so here's hoping you like it.

Click here for the story.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Rammstein

Sound Screen's taking a German flavour from me this week, following on from my piece about Nena's 99 Luftballons. So, in all their glory, here's a round up about Rammstein for Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before.

Click here to read more about one of Germany's premier bands.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Nena

99 Luftballons is simply one of the best one hit wonders out there, and here's why.

Click here for my article on the song.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Sly & the Family Stone

After much deliberation and a huge hit to my internet connection that sapped me of Spotify, I decided instead to work on another Stop Me If... feature instead of a playlist, which I'll continue with from next week.

So here, in all their glory, are Sly & the Family Stone.

Sound Screen: Film review - A Town Called Panic

In my first-ever film review, I visited the Leeds International Film Festival to see A Town Called Panic at the Hyde Park Picture House. Was it worth the trip?


Check out my review here.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Average White Band

Funk from Scotland is perhaps a surprise choice for One Hit Wonderland this week, though you'll probably not be too surprised at the reasons for its coverage - after all, it's one of the best songs in its genre.

Click here for more.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Talking Heads

One of my favourite bands of all time, Talking Heads needed a little bit of Spotify Sunday love, so at short notice and with a busy schedule I knocked together this piece on the band who stormed the charts in the 80s.

Click here for the article and playlist.

Sound Screen: Music Review - Olympia (Bryan Ferry)

I take a look at Bryan Ferry's latest offering this weekend, after seven years without an original release from the former Roxy Music frontman.

Click here to read all about it.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Sparks

In the second of my One Hit Wonderland columns, I delve briefly into the world of Sparks, shortly before dumping the listener into the greatest song they ever wrote.

Click here for the feature.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - Giorgio Moroder

Some people just need credit where credit's due. Giorgio Moroder is one of these people. Following on from the opener about David Holmes, I delve deeper into the man who made soundtracks absolutely flawless.

Click here for more.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Bowie

In my second successive week of Spotify Sundays, I compiled a playlist on David Bowie and let my mind run wild. See if you like it.

Click here for the full piece.

Sound Screen: One Hit Wonderland - Althea and Donna

In another new feature for Sound Screen, I select a one-hit wonder that really made an impact on the UK music scene, perhaps even taking the world by storm. This week I look at one of my personal favourites, Uptown Top Ranking by Althea and Donna.

Click here to read more.

Sound Screen: Stop Me If You've Heard These Ones Before - David Holmes

In an attempt to bring a much more structured formula to Sound Screen - one that will also get me writing regularly without having to think of something to write, as well as providing readers with consistency - I've pioneered a couple of ideas for features on the site. This is the first of many pieces on artists who may not get the credit they deserve, yet have produced music that is near-synonymous with people around the world; these people just may not realise it.

The first piece is here, and it's on David Holmes.

Sound Screen: Music review - Halcyon Digest (Deerhunter)

I'm in the process of getting a weekly timetable for Sound Screen in order to build news around it when I can possibly get the help or time myself to do it. As such, music reviewing is now going to happen on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This is my newest review, following on from the Write About Love review the day before.

Click here to read it.

Sound Screen: Music review - Write About Love (Belle and Sebastian)

In my first music review since getting back into writing (and, if I remember rightly, my 100th music write-up to date), I look at Belle and Sebastian's Write About Love. It's a continuation of my attempted revival of Sound Screen, which should hopefully feature more writers and features in the coming months and perhaps give a bit more news.

Click here for the big 100.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Rock Band: Third Time's a Charm

It's been a crazy couple of months since getting back from the US, though after a launch of a new blog and a couple of other things, I'm back in the writing spirit and aim to make a one-man job of the resurrection of Sound Screen.

So here it is, my first Spotify Sunday playlist since leaving for the US. Click here to read more.

Expect more work in the coming weeks!

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Standouts Enjoy NPSL All-Star Selections

The New Jersey Blaze are proud to announce that two of its players made the trip to the National Premier Soccer League's All-Star game in Madison, Alabama, winning 2-0 against a local Rocket City United team during the NPSL Final Four weekend.

Click here for more info.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Duo Named to 2010 WPSL All-East Teams

Two Millburn Magic stars have been selected by the Women's Premier Soccer League as part of the organisation's 2010 All-East First and Second teams after playing vital roles in the squad's second playoff campaign in as many seasons.

Read more here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze and Magic Emerge Triumphant in 2010 YPSL

After putting in consistently great performances throughout the season, the New Jersey Blaze and Millburn Magic have finished top of the Men’s and Women’s Youth Premier Soccer League tables respectively, both closing their season on a win.

Read more here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Ofori on Fire as Blaze Finish Season on High

The New Jersey Blaze completed their amazing first season with the YPSL by recording their seventh win in eight games to close their 2010 campaign against the Morris County Colonials, winning 4-0 at Millburn High School, New Jersey.

More news on the game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Stars Return to College

After a great season with the Millburn Magic that ended with a run in the playoffs, a number of the team’s stars are returning to college to continue their work on soccer fields all around the country.

Read about their different directions here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Roundup: Magic Win Weekend Double

The Millburn Magic won back-to-back games this weekend and remain at the top of the YPSL women’s division, beating the Jersey Select and NJ Wildcats over the weekend.

More info here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Successes for Young Colonials Across the State

It was another productive weekend for the Morris County Colonials’ boys squads, who attended a number of tournaments around the region including Fort Dix and East Hudson. All proved their worth as team players and worked hard in each fixture, with mixed results for each age group.

Read more about the young talent here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Young Magic Teams Continue Battle Through Summer Tournaments

It was another exciting weekend for players and coaches alike as the Millburn Magic youth teams went around the local area to play in a range of tournaments.

More? Here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze Get All Six Points Over Weekend; Tea Men Beat Cols

It would be a weekend of mixed fortunes for the home teams on Saturday and Sunday in the YPSL’s four-game competition at Millburn High School. The New Jersey Blaze were able to double their points with another emphatic win, beating Maine Sting 5-0 in the opener, while Morris County Colonials were unable to make up for their loss against the Sting, losing 3-1 against the Boston Tea Men.

More info about the weekend here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Select Bounce Back from Rev Loss with Win vs SJU

The Jersey Select squad had two games to contend with this week, facing off against FC Revolution away from home on Wednesday July 14th before moving on to host South Jersey United on Sunday 18th. Despite losing the first 1-0, the girls of the Select were able to bounce back with a 2-0 victory on the weekend.

More on this tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Playoff Hopes Ended by Impressive Boston Aztec 23s Squad

The 2010 Millburn Magic campaign has officially come to an end after a comprehensive playoff defeat at a strong Boston Aztec 23s. The hosts took advantage of a depleted Magic roster to power through the Women’s Premier Soccer League East Conference playoff.

The last game report of the season for the Magic is here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze, Sting Take Wins in Millburn Saturday

The New Jersey Blaze and Maine Sting were celebrating on Saturday night after the squads picked up wins against the Boston Tea Men and Morris County Colonials respectively in their second weekend of games held at Millburn High School in New Jersey.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Snatch Defeat from Jaws of Victory in Final Game of Season

The New Jersey Blaze were keen to make sure that their season ended how it started, and for 85 minutes of the game, it looked like they were going to win it. However, the final five would be what ultimately mattered - a period that led to the second FC Reading Revolution goal to make it a 2-1 loss in Monmouth Junction.

The last report is here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Magic Overturn SJU in Injury Time

The Millburn Magic went top of the YPSL U20 Women’s table after a last-gasp winner against South Jersey United FC in Marlton, NJ.

More info here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Mutinies Draw in Double Stalemate

The two divisions of the New England Mutiny – the Western Mass Mutiny and the Connecticut Mutiny – have proved to be each other’s match not once but twice this season, playing to identical 1-1 draws this month.

The full report can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Pocono Hosts Colonials Youth in Tournament Weekend

The Morris County Colonials’ youth squads headed across the border to Pennsylvania this weekend, taking on a whole host of squads from around he area as part of the organization’s ongoing desire to further the development of boys’ soccer in northern New Jersey.

More youth team news? Click here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Young Magic Stars Continue to Shine in Pocono

As part of the continuing efforts of the Millburn Magic to foster excellent youth talent in the local area, the organization has again played a major part in a recent tournament this weekend in East Stroudsberg, Pennsylvania.

Learn more about the young ones: click.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Midfielder Hailed by WPSL, Named in Team of the Week

One very talented midfielder with the Millburn Magic has finally been nationally recognized for her outstanding contributions to the team in their second playoff-chasing season in a row. Kayleigh Hines, the former England youth team player and Reading Ladies star that helped them to promotion and silverware last season, has been named to the WPSL Team of the Week.

Read more about her by clicking here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Aim to Close on High with Win in Last 2010 Game

While it has been far from a perfect season for the New Jersey Blaze organization in its inaugural season in 2010, the team is nonetheless aiming to finish the season as it started, ending on a high note with a victory on Wednesday in front of home fans at Rowland Park, South Brunswick.

More about the upcoming tie can be found here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Lynx Come Out on Top in NH Round Robin

The Adirondack Lynx kept their season alive with two hard-fought wins in the north-east this weekend, as they faced off against Maine Tide and the New Hampshire Mountaineers at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester over the weekend.

The report can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic are Playoff-Bound After Win Over Torch

Although their position in the playoffs was not confirmed until the last game, the Millburn Magic proved that they were ready for the postseason with a decisive victory over the BuxMont Torch, beating their Pennsylvanian visitors 2-1 in front of fans at Robert T Shields in Madison Sunday.

Read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Unable to Overturn Two-Goal Deficit in Last 2010 Away Game

The New Jersey Blaze fell foul of a competent but physical TSC Maryland Red Devils team for the second and final time this season, finishing the squad’s last away tie of the 2010 campaign 2-1 after they were unable to hold off the hosts.

More? Here, of course.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Need Win for Playoffs in Nail-Biting Final Game

There’s only one game left in the regular season for the Millburn Magic, and it’s a big one: a win over BuxMont Torch FC in Madison Sunday at 6:30pm will seal the Magic’s place in the playoffs, going up in second place behind the Long Island Fury.

More about the upcoming game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Playoff Hopes Alive for Magic After 4-0 Win Over SJU

The Millburn Magic’s playoff chances remained alive and well after an emphatic victory over South Jersey United in Cherry Hill Friday, defeating the hosts 4-0 after drawing 1-1 at home to the club in a disappointing display last month.

More here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Select Restrict League Leaders to One-Goal Advantage in Season Finisher

The Jersey Select team improved on their last result against the Lancaster Inferno dramatically but were unable to prevent the loss against the table-toppers, losing 1-0 in their final game of the 2010 WPSL season.

The final game report for the Select's 2010 campaign is here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Select Derail Magic's Unbeaten Run

The Jersey Select proved to be on top form against the previously undefeated Millburn Magic, bouncing back from a 6-5 loss to South Jersey United by winning 5-1 against the visitors to Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, New Jersey.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Maryland Find Pride in Second-Half Performance Against Select

The Maryland Pride visited Haddonfield to claim all three points, though a solid first-half performance by the Jersey Select proved that the squad could have claimed a draw over the visitors, despite the Pride’s tenacity.

More about the penultimate tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Three Goals in Second Period Overturn Blaze

The New Jersey Blaze were unable to prevent a second defeat at the hands of current league leaders FC Sonic (9-1-1), who enter into their last game with fellow title contenders the Erie Admirals needing a win to progress to the playoffs, claiming all three points in South Brunswick Tuesday.

Read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Close Season with Draw against Red Bulls

The Morris County Colonials proved that they were misrepresented by their 5-1 home loss to the New York Red Bulls last month, though were still unlucky to tie 1-1 Tuesday night in their final National Premier Soccer League tie of 2010 at Lubetkin Field on the campus of New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Read about the game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze to Prove Point with Three Points Against FC Sonic

Nothing less than three points is the target for head coach Rob Napier and the New Jersey Blaze team as they face up to FC Sonic, who currently sit second in the table with eight wins, one draw and one loss.

More here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Defeated by Italians Despite Spirited Performance

Unfortunate circumstances meant that the Morris County Colonials were unable to field a full team against the Brooklyn Italians, though that did not stop the ten starters from making the most of the first half and even getting a great lead before half-time.

More about this interesting game here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: SJUFC Overcome Jersey Select in 11-Goal Thriller

The quality of competitive football in the YPSL was certainly proved this week as South Jersey United FC took on a strong Jersey Select squad in a local battle for supremacy. SJUFC would be ultimately victorious after scoring the winner in the dying moments of the game, making the score an incredible 6-5.

More info here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze, Mutiny and Mansaray Honored in Weekly Awards

I'm now in charge of naming the team and player of the week - an honour for me as well as those I name from match reports, interviews and statistics.

This week, I had the pleasure of seeing two of the winners in person - and they certainly deserve the awards.

Click here to find out who.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Another Three Goals Seals Win for Magic

The Millburn Magic were again back in action, this time fighting the Adirondack Lynx at home.

How did the girls do? Click here to find out.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Fury Prevent Clean Sweep with 2-0 Win

The Millburn Magic were unable to overcome last year’s national champions the Long Island Fury yesterday, losing 2-0 at the hands of the 2009 National Champions in a well balanced game between last year’s two regional finalists.

More info here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Chesapeake Get Revenge for Opening-Day Defeat by Select

The Jersey Select were unable to repeat their opening-day victory against a resurgent ASA Chesapeake Charge Monday, losing 4-0 in front of home fans at Paul VI High School.

Click here for the match report.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Youth Continue to Go from Strength to Strength

It was another productive weekend for the Millburn Magic girls’ teams, who travelled through to Neptune with their Colonials counterparts to test their skills, with a range of results proving that the squads are advancing well in the early part of the summer.

More info here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Youth Teams Continue Campaigns in Neptune

In another part of my job, I'm tasked with covering the youth teams of the major organisations - this time the Morris County Colonials.

Click here to learn how the youngsters are doing.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Select Target Six-Point Sweep of Chesapeake

The Jersey Select (1-6) will be looking to get another win against the Chesapeake Charge (2-3-3) when the Maryland squad visits Paul VI High School in Haddonfield this Monday at 7:00pm.

Read more about the upcoming game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Buffalo Complete Season Sweeop of Blaze

Buffalo got their second win out of two in Lakewood against the Blaze, despite the general momentum of the game.

Read more about the tie here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Sting Bounce Back in NH Sunday

The Maine Sting were sure to not fall into the same traps as they did when they played the New Jersey Blaze the day before, this time triumphing over the Morris County Colonials.

More info here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze Prove a Point in New Hampshire

I went on the road with the New Jersey Blaze over the weekend, taking them to Massachusetts and New Hampshire. They proved their worth despite the long trip and played their hearts out, getting a great result in Manchester, NH, on this occasion.

Read more about the impressive game here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Mutiny, Tide and Mountaineers Fight for Supremacy in ME

Three teams were in action in Maine this weekend, playing a round-robin to figure out which one was best - with a clear winner.

Find out which team it was here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Tea Men Match Colonials in North MA

I travelled up to Massachusetts with three of the teams to cover a load of games on the weekend, while also taking in the scenery as part of my six-hour drive. The Colonials were the only NPSL team to be playing, and here's the report.

Click here for more info.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Sting, Colonials, Tea Men and Blaze Battle in MA

Four teams played each other this weekend in North Andover, following my 330-mile trip up to Massachusetts. Who won their games?

FInd out more about the Merrimack College games in the YPSL here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Western Mass Mutiny Start Strong vs Lynx

The Western Mass Mutiny would have an excellent run of results over the weekend, with the Lynx score being perhaps the most tame of them all.

Learn more about the tie here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Millburn Continues On-Field Magic Against FC Revolution

The Magic again had the skills to pay the bills against a new foe, this time the FC Reading Revolution, jostling for supremacy in Millburn.

Click here for more info.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Independence Grab Second Win Against Select

The Jersey Select (1-6) were unable to make amends for their 2-1 defeat to the Philadelphia Independence earlier in the month in Downingtown, PA, falling by four goals to one at Paul VI High School in Haddonfield Friday.

Please read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Look to Overcome NYAC in Second Meeting

The Morris County Colonials (2-1-3) are hoping that they will be able to build on their 0-0 draw against the New York Athletic Club (2-3-2) when the latter visits Madison Friday at 7:00pm.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Bounce Back Against NYAC

After a battle for supremacy for the full 90 minutes, the Morris County Colonials were able to secure an excellent 2-0 victory against a persistent New York Athletic Club team in a game that demonstrated plenty of battles up and down the pitch.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Erie Face Blaze in First of Two Weekend Double Headers

The Erie Admirals are about to play the Blaze in the first of two games to see if they can overcome teams they were previously defeated by, except this time on home turf.

Learn more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Fall Short Against Erie in Rematch

The Erie Admirals visited New Jersey to take on the Blaze and see if they could repeat their 4-1 win over the squad. It wouldn't work out for them that way, though they would claim all three points.

Read more about the game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Young Select Team to Build on Last Independence Performance

Last time the Jersey Select played the Philadelphia Independence, it looked like the team would have walked away from Downingtown, PA with one point. However, it was not to be, though the Select will be aiming to
fulfil this aim when the Independence come to Haddonfield Friday.

More info here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: SJUFC Bounce Back Against Wildcats

South Jersey United FC are looking to get themselves back on track after a loss to the Millburn Magic, and it duly happened against league newbies the NJ Wildcats.

Learn more about the game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Lancaster Continue Leading Form with 7-0 Rout of Select

The table-topping Lancaster Inferno team proved why they are leading the East Mid-Atlantic Conference by five points after dominating their game against the Select, winning with seven unanswered goals at Paul VI High School in Haddonfield.

More info about the game can be found here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Italians Romp to 7-1 Victory

The Italians decisively beat the New Jersey Blaze tonight, though the Blaze are keen to move on from the experience, understandably.

Learn more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Millburn Magic Youth Teams Show Super Start to Summer Season

Understanding that youth teams in soccer will provide future stars in the ever-growing sport, the Millburn Magic's younger squads have been in action in a series of tournaments this weekend, with a number of them claiming excellent results against local competition.

Click here to find out more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Young Colonials Have Positive Beginnings in Summer Tournament Kick-Off

Youth teams are very important to the Morris County Colonials, an organization dedicated to creating more stars in New Jersey for the ever-growing sport. Several teams were in action in a series of tournaments this weekend, with a positive outlook alongside mixed results at the Hershey Invitational.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Select Face Table-Toppers in Next Test

The Jersey Select are to face the Lancaster Inferno, an excellent team who are currently top of the East Mid-Atlantic table.

Click here for more about the future tie.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Red Bulls Claim Fifth Away Win in Eight Days Against Colonials

The New York Red Bulls brought along their U23 squad to Madison to prove why they are in the country's elite.

How did they do it? Click here to find out.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): SJU Holds On for Draw Despite Second-Half Persistence

Despite hard work in the second half, the Millburn Magic were unable to fully turn around a one-goal deficit from the first period and claim the win over South Jersey United FC at Madison’s Robert T Shields Field.


Click to read more about the game.

Youth Premier Soccer League: New England Gives New Horizons for YPSL

The Youth Premier Soccer League is hoping to grow in the coming months and years in order to foster some of the best talent in the United States and beyond. One major area for possible expansion is New England, where some of the US’ brightest young stars shine.

Find out what league youth co-ordinator Cheryl Stokes has to say here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Colonials Overcome by Amazing Half-Hour from Blaze

An unbelievable performance by the Blaze has proved that the calibre of soccer in the YPSL is phenomenal - and stars teams that would likely give the bigger squads a run for their money.

Hear more about the game here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Counting Down to 3-2-1 Record Against Red Bulls

Three wins, two losses and a draw could be the record for the Colonials if they triumph over the Red Bulls.

Learn more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): North Battles South as SJU Travels to Play Magic

It's a battle of north and south when South Jersey United travel to play the Magic this week, though who has the better form, and who will triumph?

Learn more about the teams here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: New Jersey Pair in Great Mid-Week YPSL Clash

Two of my own teams are battling it out tonight in front of the locals in Monmouth Junction, so it'll be a great U20s game to cover.

Learn more here.

Youth Premier Soccer League: First Men’s U20s Game of 2010 Ends in a Tie

The first game of the season, while not amazing on paper, turned out to be a real battle of the wills for the Italians and Colonials.

Learn more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Prevent Perfect Weekend for NYAC with 0-0 Tie

NYAC had a great time of it this weekend, though the Colonials were on hand to throw a spanner in the works.

Click here for more on the next game I covered.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): NYAC Show Improvements in Second Magic Meeting

The second Magic game against NYAC was looming, though this time it would be held in Travers Island. Did the squad show improvements on their home turf after a 3-1 loss earlier this season?

Read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Home Sweet Home for NYAC in 5-1 Win Over Select

The NYAC kicked off their weekend with an emphatic win over the Jersey Select this weekend, just prior to a bad result for England against the USA in the World Cup.

Learn more about the tie in NY here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Unable to Secure Equalizer Against FC Revolution

In my next match report for the Blaze, I cover a crazy 4-3 game that continues a tough run of form for my franchise teams, though things are looking up.

Click here for the story.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Select Target Second Win While Lynx and Mutiny Start Season

In the first games of the season for the women in the YPSL, I previewed two games, including one featuring the aforementioned imaginatively-titled Adirondack Lynx.

Click here to read more about the games.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Men’s U20s Kicks Off Sunday

It's the start of the season for the men of the YPSL this weekend, so I made sure the new league got some more coverage.

Click here for more info.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Independence Show Their Own Magic in Second Half Rout

In the maddest game of the 2010 season, the Magic go 4-2 up against the Philadelphia Independence in just 32 minutes. The final score?

Well, you're going to have to read on...

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Hope to Continue Great Run Against Independence

The Millburn Magic have every confidence that their current run of form will be extended with another win against Philadelphia Independence, who claimed a win over the Jersey Select in another game I covered a couple of days previously.

Learn more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Red Devils Hang On for Win Against Blaze

The Red Devils ended up getting the win, but there's way more to the scoreline than meets the eye.

Why's that? Well, click here and find out.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Colonials are Great Team for Greatwich

Chris Greatwich, a Philippines soccer international, is leading the Colonials U20s team in the upcoming YPSL season. What are his thoughts?

Click here to find out.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Italians Plan to Add Flavor to YPSL

The Brooklyn Italians are a cracking squad with a rich heritage, so to have them in the YPSL is a major boost to the league.

Click here to learn more about their motives.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Local Strength Key to Lynx Campaign

Another team debuts on the YPSL website, this time in the form of the imaginatively-titled Adirondack Lynx. Want to know more about the squad?

Click here for the all-important info...

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze Return Home to Host Maryland

The second home game of the season faces the Blaze, with Maryland's Red Devils being the next target. Will they succeed?

Learn more about the squads here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Independence Seal 2-1 Win in Dying Minutes Against Select

Another day, another 2-1 defeat, though this time it would be for the Jersey Select against the Philadelphia Independence, a great team who have, until now, failed to deliver given their reputation.

Read more about the game in Downingtown here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): STA Stars Making the Magical Grade

The Millburn Magic, like many teams, have a wide array of talent, particularly in relation to their ages. Here, I interview three of the team's younger players and their experience of the youth development programme provided by the Sonesoccer Training Academy.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Duo Named in WPSL Team of the Week

Two of the girls on the team, after a great week for the Magic, were named on the national team of the week. A great honour for the organisation, it was a moment worth sharing, which I did duly.

Here's the player promotion, and it's definitely fair.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Magic and Select Claim First Wins of 2010 YPSL Campaign

The first weekend of the Youth Premier Soccer League (YPSL) kicked off, with wins for the teams I cover in my usual job, luckily enough. However, reporting is my aim, so a balanced report is what's delivered, despite my desires to celebrate.

Click here for more information.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Home Win Fits the Bill for Buffalo

The second of two heavy away trips for the Blaze ended in another defeat, though head coach Rob Napier is certainly seeing better things on the horizon, given how close the game was.

For my match report, click here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Admirals are Admirable in 4-1 Win

The NJ Blaze suffered a pretty heavy defeat in Erie this weekend, though better things are on the horizon.

To read more about the game, click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Pride Leads to Select’s Fall in Maryland

Another defeat was on the cards for the Select, though it was a much better performance than against the Magic. However, the points did not come their way, as I try my best to convey in my next piece.

Click here for more information.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Shut Out Last Year’s WPSL Champions in 1-0 Victory

It was an excellent night for the New Jersey Soccer Group, which triumphed in the best way possible against one of the best teams in the country - and I was there to get the details.

Click here for more information.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Wildcats Hope for Big Things from Small Beginnings

The NJ Wildcats are only trying the league with a couple of games this season, though it could lead to bigger things for what is a very promising organisation. What are the motives of the NJ Wildcats this season?

Click here to find out...

Youth Premier Soccer League: Socrates Lays Down Ethics of South Jersey Utd

The YPSL is made for a range of puns in the headlines, and this one was a peach, plus Socrates is actually a really nice guy with probably the coolest name ever (fun fact: he's Australian).

Click here for more info.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Brownell Selects Team Targets for 2010

And so the focus shifts to the teams of the YPSL. I'm doing all the photos, interviews and write-ups for the site, so keep your eyes peeled.

More information on the Select available here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic to Square Up to Last Year’s National Champions

The Magic took on the national champions this season, and of course, it was a tie to look forward to. Here, I preview the game on behalf of the squad.

Click here to learn more.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Blaze Saddles Up for Season with U20s

The New Jersey Blaze, another one of our new franchises, is also jumping into the world of U20 soccer. What does their coach think?

Click here to read more.

Youth Premier Soccer League: Magic Man Sees Bright Future for Millburn

One of my friends on the Magic team, Sean Kiernan, also happens to be the coach of the U20s, so an interview with the big man seemed like a positive step for the league.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Jersey Select Fall to Magic in Home Opener

In the second of two match reports for the Jersey Select vs Millburn Magic tie, I cover the game from the perspective of a Select reporter in order to deliver the information a bit more tidily for their fans. I didn't disappoint, thankfully.

Read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Excellent Second-Half Performance Results in 4-0 Rout of Jersey Select

Two of my company's teams fought it out in Burlington today, and it was interesting to say the least. In the first of two match reports (the other being orientated towards the Select's performance), I look at how the Magic triumphed.

Read more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonial Re-Enactment in New Hampshire Rights the Past

Divine justice played out for the Morris County Colonials in New Hampshire tonight, as the visitors replayed the first tie between the teams in more ways than one, concluding in a remarkable instance of coincidence in both the occasion and scoreline.

Click here to read more about this great game.

Youth Premier Soccer League: FC Revolution Burstein with Ideas after New Coach Named

I've become the head of PR for the Youth Premier Soccer League, a venture that aims to bring together all U20 teams in the north-east of the United States. It's a great post and a lot of fun, plus it broadens my knowledge of soccer in the US.

Click here for the first story on a new coach appointment.

Select Host First-Ever Home Game Against Magic

The Jersey Select has a chance to build on the perfect first step as the squad vies for three points against Millburn Magic at Burlington County College this Wednesday.

In a rewrite of the Millburn report for a new audience, I look on the other side of the coin at the Jersey Select's build-up to the coming game.

Click here for more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic to Travel South for First Clash of June

A fresh start to the month will provide both the Millburn Magic and Jersey Select a chance to take another positive step forward as both clubs vie for three points at Burlington County College on Wednesday June 2nd at 6:00pm.

Of course, both teams are ones I cover. A face-off to kick-off the month. I am spoiled.

Click here to read more...

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials to Make Amends in Trip to New Hampshire

The Morris County Colonials are to make sure their return leg to New Hampshire does not end in the same manner it did in the first game of the season on May 16th, when the Mountaineers sank the home team 2-1 in Madison.

Click here to read more about the upcoming clash.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic & Morris County Colonials): 2010 Schedule Promotional Poster

Sometimes, you go above and beyond experience and knowledge to deliver something that is not usually what you're known for. I've never produced a poster before, but with my (somewhat growing) knowledge of Photoshop, I've found myself creating some amazing things. Either way, there's a fine line between art and media, and this has probably been the one that has danced the most along this line.

Click below to look at the offering in more detail:

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Italians Continue Undefeated Run With 1-0 Win Over Colonials

In the third of my match reports for the Colonials, I cover the third home clash in a row, which was held against the Brooklyn Italians. In another close game, only one could triumph; sadly, it wasn't the Colonials.

For more information, click here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Well-Rested Blaze Try For Repeat Result in Home Opener

The New Jersey Blaze are 1-1 after two games and aim to get another three points against Pocono Snow in their home opener, after beating the same team away in the first match of the season (and franchise history) in East Stroudsburg.

Here is what is to be expected from the Blaze.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Brooklyn Italians to Visit Madison as Colonials Vie for Back-to-Back Wins

In Friday's double-header, the Morris County Colonials will take on the Brooklyn Italians, who currently lead the division. Following an emphatic 3-0 win over the Boston Tea Men, the squad looks to get its first back-to-back wins of the campaign.

Learn more about the tie here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Eleventh Hour Fight-back Nullified by BuxMont, Heartache for Magic

In the best game of the season to watch so far, the Magic travelled to Perkasie in Pennsylvania to take on the BuxMont Torch in 35C (96F) heat, which was only exacerbated by the 3G surface (which ramped it closer to 41C - 104F).

Sadly, the game didn't go to plan despite a remarkable comeback. The story can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Honorary Owner Fired Up to Be Part of Blaze’s Inaugural Season

I had the delight of meeting Ed Garber, the Blaze's honorary owner, last week. A die-hard Yankees fan, the man has constantly tried his best to get involved in sport and the Blaze provided him with the opportunity to step up to the plate. I really like the bloke and it seemed fitting to produce an article on him, as he learned the ropes of the sport.

Read what he had to say here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): BuxMont to Face Magic After Both Triumph Over NYAC

In another match preview for this month, I detail the goings-on at the Magic as they prepare to cross the border to face the BuxMont Torch. To quote their website, the Torch "use the platform of soccer in a way that reflects the calling of God to be holy, the mission of Jesus to save the lost, and the filling of the Holy Spirit to accomplish God's will". While I'm no believer myself, I've got to admit it's a pretty admirable take on faith.

The match report can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Matchday Program 2010

I produced another media guide for the New Jersey Soccer Group, this time an eight-page offering for the season, which inserts will be placed inside. Click on the front cover below to see more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Conjure Up Three Points in Season Opener

In the second game of the double-header at FDU College at Florham this weekend, the Millburn Magic played their season debut off the back of a great season in 2009, where they reached the regional final.

Getting off to a good start against New York Athletic Club, their exploits can be read about here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Trio for Veloz Sinks Boston Tea Men

The first game of the double-header this weekend turned out to be a great one for the Colonials, who were looking to bounce back from a 2-1 defeat to the New Hampshire Mountaineers on the previous Sunday. One man in particular stole the show.

Read about it here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Jersey Select Overcome First Hurdle in Maryland

Although I was unable to make it to Maryland for a number of reasons - sadly missing out on a chance to see Baltimore - I managed to catch up with the Select coaches after their first-ever game - one that was a remarkable surprise for all involved, particularly if going by the stats.

Read more about Jersey Select vs Chesapeake Charge here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): Magic Looks Ahead to First Game of 2010

The Millburn Magic are playing their first game of the season this weekend, so coverage is pretty hot at the moment. In the second of the pre-game reports (rewritten to point at the correct audience, but also include other teams to expand their markets too), I look at the opener.

The press release can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Aim to Bounce Back Against Tea Men in Double-Header

The Boston Tea Men aim to make it three wins in four days with the Colonials, though it's never that easy in football. Here, I preview the weekend's games in the first of two write-ups, with this focus being on the Colonials.

Click here for more info.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Jersey Select is Fountain of Talented Youth, Says Head Coach

Another article hits the site today, and it's all about head coach George Rhea. While this is only a small part of the work I do for the organisation (the press releases, I mean), it's still something that's worth sharing.

Click here for more on this story.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): New U20s Program works Magic for Millburn

The Millburn Magic operates on a number of levels, notably age groups, so it was good to catch up with Sean Kiernan, the Manchester-born U20s coach and assistant coach at the team, to find out more about the programme.

Click here to read more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Sonic Runs Rings Around Tired Blaze

Another puntastic headline carries on the tradition of first sentence megaLOLs out here in the US. While I was not in attendance due to commitments at the Colonials home game, I gathered information from several sources, phone calls and chats with the head coach to provide the full picture for Blaze fans.

You can read the report here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): A Game of Two Halves Leads to Loss in Opener for Colonials

This game proved to be a very divided affair, with one team dominating the first half and the other triumphing in the second. In the first of two rather negative releases for the week, it is also an example of the first home game I've worked on while being here.

The article can be found here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (New Jersey Blaze): Blaze's Strong Performance Plows Through Snow

In my first ever game report, I travelled through to Pennsylvania to cover the clash between the Pocono Snow and the New Jersey Blaze. What's more, it was a cracking game, though in more senses than one.

I posted up the press release at the NJ Blaze website here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials & Millburn Magic): Matchday Program 2010

Building upon previous efforts with the one-off for the first game, which can be found on my Flickr account here, I was able to extend the original publication of 12 pages (four in colour) to a full-colour 16-page offering that will act as an outer shell to the rest of the piece, which will be black and white-printed eight-page pull-outs. There is a slightly larger emphasis on sponsorship but in terms of percentage of product, it's much lower than that of its predecessor. It also acts as a cover for both the Morris County Colonials and the Millburn Magic, with boosted roster information.



Furthermore, it has a much greater focus on team colours, which are used on the relevant pages while a neutral black colour scheme is used for the rest in order to emphasise the branding of both squads, particularly through the use of relevant fonts (Old English and Playbill).

Click here for the rest of the offering.

New Jersey Soccer Group (STA): Success for STA Blaze Following Excellent Tournament Performance

I also work with the Sonesoccer Training Academy (STA), which provides a large amount of expertise to younger football players around New Jersey. One story recently focused on a tournament win for the BLaze, a great young team that succeeded in a tournament recently.

Click here for more info.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): First Game Media Guide / Matchday Program

Yep, I know it's US spelling, but deal with it. In a couple of testing nights, I put together possibly the finest composition ever with Photoshop, taking into account various items of information and input as well as phone calls, emails and face-to-face talks galore. I think the finished product is so good, I put it on my Flickr account.



Want to have a look? Click here to see my handiwork. Another bigger and brighter offering will be coming on Friday for the full season to go into print for the following week; this will be released on Sunday at the season opener.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Players Gearing Up for Upcoming Season

Another press release to hit you about the face and chin, as yet more players join the ranks of Morris County's finest men's club. While many press releases will be of this nature for the immediate future, expect game reports, previews and the like to follow.

Click here to read more.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Jersey Select Builds Towards Bright Future with More Signings

In the latest release for the Jersey Select first team, playing in its inaugural season this summer, I report on a few more of the new additions to the squad.

Click here for more information.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Morris County Colonials): Colonials Ready for Sunday's Season Opener

In my next offering for the Colonials, I discuss yet more signings with the team - one I genuinely think will do well, given the strength of the squad.

Read more here.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Jersey Select): Jersey Select Continues to Strengthen Roster

The Jersey Select are a brand new team this season, so all the promotion possible is needed to ensure they get the best shot at success with fans as well as on the field, which looks almost certain.

Here's my first piece for them, again continuing with the issue of new signings.

Sound Screen: DVD review - Live at the Olympic Auditorium (Suicidal Tendencies)

It's taken the band a long five years to get this DVD published - at least, you assume that from the fact it was recorded in 2005 - so it must be worth the wait.

Well, perhaps. Check here to see what I think.

Sound Screen: Music review - Smile Kid (We the Kings)

Another album that could viably be from any other band in the genre, is there anything going for We the Kings in their latest release?

Maybe. Read on here to find out.

Sound Screen: Music review - A New Dawn (Circus Envy)

Time to get down and dirty with a local band looking to break into the national circuit with an EP. Can the Hull boys do themselves justice?

Click here to find out.

Sound Screen: Music review - Hologram Jams (Jaguar Love)

Okay, I'll admit it: I've heard some stinking albums in my time. There. There's the hook. Happy now? You'll find out more if you read about it.

It's here, by the way.

Sound Screen: Music review - Mob Rules/Live Evil (Black Sabbath)

A double-header picks up from the Heaven and Hell review I did a couple of weeks ago. Are the newest two worth a listen?

Why not find out by clicking here?

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - The Evolution of Incubus

Another Sunday, another playlist for Sound Screen, a website I plan on reviving fully soon after my return from the US. As it stands, it's run by a bunch of people - myself included - with too much to do to give it the justice it deserves. Luckily, I'll be handing it over to a great writer in future weeks in order to secure its safety in my time away; until then, I'll be doing all I can (expect a cleared backlog of reviews in the meantime).

Click here for my newest playlist with, perhaps, my longest accompanying article.

New Jersey Soccer Group (Millburn Magic): UK Standouts Join Magic Veterans on Roster

In my first of many press releases for the New Jersey Soccer Group (albeit from the comfort of my home in Leeds, before I make the big switch), I talk about transatlantic transactions with the Millburn Magic.

You can read more about it here.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - Brothers Gonna Work It Out

In my latest playlist, I offer the greatest dance duo of all time, The Chemical Brothers.

Seriously, it's worth it. Check it out here.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Whip It Official Soundtrack (Various Artists)

Another compilation for a film comes from the brain of Drew Barrymore, who created it as a mix tape. Is it any good?

Read more here.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Propellor Time (Robyn Hitchcock & the Venus 3)

Another week, another couple of reviews, this time starting with the 17th studio album by British underground treasure Robyn Hitchcock with a more approachable release. Does it compromise his style?

Read more about it here.

Sound Screen: Music review - Heaven and Hell [Deluxe Edition] (Black Sabbath)

Ozzy is Gone. Long live Ozzy. Oh wait, Ronnie James Dio is here. What's more, he's really good! Was 1980 a good year for the new face of Black Sabbath?

Find out here.

Sound Screen: Music review - Tales from the Doombox (Subsource)

So we have another clone of The Prodigy. Or do we? Who knows? If only there was something that looked into a release of some sort in a researching kind of way, responding with comments that explained its worth.

Oh wait, here's one that I did.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Against the Gravity (Elvis Jackson)

Everyone knows Slovenia's leading punk/ska/reggae/metal band, right? It's Elvis Jackson (apparently), and they're targeting British shores with this release.

Is it any good? Click here to find out more.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - The Best of Air

In the next offering for Spotify Sunday with Sound Screen, I address possibly my favourite band: Air. It's not exactly a selective playlist, though it's valuable to those who haven't heard them nonetheless.

Click here to read my write-up.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Grappling Hooks (North Atlantic Oscillation)

The second of two album reviews for this week, Grappling Hooks is another predominantly instrumental affair - whether or not it is good, however, is a different question.

Click here to find out more.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Boe Weaver (Boe Weaver)

It's a bit of a strange one for music this week, with me receiving the debut albums of two electro-esque musicians. Are they worth the bother?

Click here for the first, a review of Boe Weaver.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - The Early Years of East Coast Hip-Hop

In my second article in this series I created for Sound Screen, I delve into one of my greatest loves - throwback hip-hop.

See what you think - read the article and have a listen!

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Mark The Hard Earth (Kris Drever)

Folk music's finest Kris Drever has lined up his second solo effort after claiming several major awards for his feats with other people in collaborations. Is he strong enough on his own?

Check here to find out.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - A Sufi And A Killer (Gonjasufi)

Warp is a fantastic label, there's very little doubt in that statement. Still, does the newest artist do the business and carry on the good work of the company?

Click here for the Gonjasufi review.

Sound Screen: Music review - Valleys of Neptune (Jimi Hendrix)

Due to copyright law, it's only possible to get hold of a strictly-guarded CD for review, which is why I couldn't give Jimi away; hence doing the review in a different way for Sound Screen, thus driving the same point home but not being lazy and just doing copy and paste.

Read the newest incarnation here!

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Valleys of Neptune (Jimi Hendrix)

It's my 200th article done outside of working contracts! And what better way to celebrate by reviewing Jimi Hendrix's newest offering?

Yeah, it's that Jimi Hendrix, a legend to top all other legends in the last 50 years. This album is an interesting one, but will it sink or swim in the sea of his legacy?

Find out here!

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - David G Cox (David G Cox)

This offering from Dreamtrak Records showcases the talents of yet another rising star in the UK's folk music scene, who works with classically-trained musicians to produce this effort.

Is it worth a listen? It's best to click here and find out.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Follow Your Heart (Mat Riviere)

Mat Riviere, signed to Brainlove - one of my favourite labels at the moment - is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his contemporaries and do the record company proud.

Does he deliver? Find out here.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Outbursts (Turin Brakes)

Given the need to get the review out quickly given its March 1st release, I decided to cover it for Sound Screen first, though my original deadline was for inthenews.co.uk, so here is another review of the album, written to a different format yet retaining many elements of the original. I have the same opinion as before, after all.

Click here to read more.

Sound Screen: Spotify Sunday - A Beginner's Guide to Funk

In my role as music editor of Sound Screen, I decided to propose something I've been meaning to follow up for a long time: Spotify playlists for people to get into a genre of music they'd usually write off, or haven't really listened to in any depth. The first, which uses basic Photoshop jobs on my behalf etc (dusting off my old skills), is all about funk and written/compiled by myself, though I hope others take my idea and use it to introduce others to their favourite artists.

It also gave me chance to break my record of 16 full articles in a month - one with 28 days too, which I'm seeing as a good achievement.

Click here for the Spotify Sunday debut.

Sound Screen: Music review - Outbursts (Turin Brakes)

In the first of two album reviews for Turin Brakes (with another to follow tomorrow for inthenews.co.uk in an altogether different format), I tackle Outbursts, which is due out for release on March 1st. The folk duo are back, but will it match releases past?

Find out by visiting the website through this link.

Sound Screen: Music review - Dirt (Kids in Glass Houses)

In a return to form on Sound Screen, I look at the new album from Kids in Glass Houses, as they try to take a few more steps to world domination. Do they reign supreme or fail to capture the hearts and minds of the public?

Click here to find out.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Liquid Love (Shy Child)

A band known to have supported Muse (among others), Shy Child have done pretty well for themselves, yet is their fourth offering any good?

Find out my viewpoint on the release by clicking here.

inthenews.co.uk: CSKA Moscow 1-1 Sevilla

In my second piece of two for an evening of football coverage, I watched and reported on the game between CSKA Moscow and Sevilla, the first leg of a last-16 match-up held in the frozen conditions of Russia.

Find out what happened by clicking here.

inthenews.co.uk: Van Persie could return at start of April

In an effort to prove my abilities to myself and others when professionally addressing my one major hobby - sport - I requested to cover a couple of things at short notice and, a few hours later, I turned up two articles, this being the first.

Click to read about Robin van Persie's progression in my report for inthenews.co.uk.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - At Loch Shiel (Trademark)

After three years of hard graft on this release, Trademark are hoping that their ambient blend of pop and electro will come off and win over new fans to a band who, it has to be said, have worked hard to build up to this moment.

Click here for my take on At Loch Shiel.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Nerve Up (Lonelady)

For my next review, I had a look at one of the more promising artists, by all accounts, to fully enter the music scene this year. Will she sink or swim?

Read the Lonelady review here.

inthenews.co.uk: Fulham 2-1 Shakhtar Donetsk

In my first match report for inthenews.co.uk, I took on the task of addressing the night's game between Fulham and last year's UEFA Cup champions Shakhtar Donetsk, which saw Fulham triumph at home.

Check out my piece by clicking here.

inthenews.co.uk: Premier League Playoffs: Good idea? Bad idea?

In this article for inthenews.co.uk, I had the chance to discuss the much talked-about issue of a possible Premier League playoff for the final spot to get into the Champion's League. Again teaming up with Alistair Potter, who I've worked with for both Super Bowl previews for this year and last, I take the side of being pro-playoff.

Does my argument hold firm? Click here to find out and judge for yourself.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Mumbo Jumbo and Murder (Swanton Bombs)

A pair of 20-year-old lads get together to make a ferocious offering which harnesses heavy drumming and powerful chords. Hasn't this been done before?

Find out how it fares by visiting inthenews.co.uk.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Brow Beaten album sampler (Silver Columns)

A mysterious pair of mixers put together this interesting offering, though still refuse to let us know who they are, despite them being supposed household names.

Is it any good, despite this ruse? Have a look at it here.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Crude Futures (So So Modern)

In the first of three CD reviews for inthenews.co.uk this week is for So So Modern, an interesting band who prove that a CD should not be judged by its cover.

Click here to read all about it.

Sound Screen: Music review - Greatest Hits & More (The Who)

In one of my longest reviews yet, I get to grips with the newest greatest hits compilation released by The Who. Is it a cut-and-dry verdict or a tough call to make?

Click here to read my review.

inthenews.co.uk: Super Bowl preview - New Orleans Saints

After collaborating for a similar piece last year, I took the opportunity to preview the Super Bowl's underdog contender: the New Orleans Saints. As a big fan of the NFL and the sport of American football in general, it was a piece I was able to write off the top of my head, though looking for statistics and researching a few of the finer points helped me improve on the previous year's effort.

Click here to read my preview of the Saints, underneath my colleague Alistair's account of the Indianapolis Colts.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - I Was a King (I Was a King)

I Was a King have roped in some of the finest minds of indie, pop and lo-fi to produce what has to be one of the most exciting CDs on paper that's come out in the last few months. The question is... is it any good?

Click here to read my review.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Godzilla Black (Godzilla Black)

In one of the strangest reviews I've ever done - if not the strangest ever - I get to grips with Godzilla Black's self-titled debut.

Read my coverage of the new outfit here.

Sound Screen: Music review - Essence (Sienná)

I was very interested in this offering, which seemed saturated with stylings akin to the likes of Air and Laroca, though it turned out much different to what I expected.

Find out why by clicking here.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - One Life Stand (Hot Chip)

And in the second of two reviews for Hot Chip, I go by the inthenews.co.uk style guide and scoring system to deliver my verdict on the newest album.

Click here to read all about it!

Sound Screen: Music review - One Life Stand (Hot Chip)

In my first of two reviews for this album - well, the second, as the other is embargoed and going up tomorrow - I attempt to write to two separate style guides and see if I can generally make the best point I can in two separate ways while making both reviews entertaining nonetheless. I chose Hot Chip as it was in demand and a popular enough band. There was also copyright/watermark issues with the promo, so I couldn't exactly give it to the guys at Sound Screen!

Click here for my review.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Yeti Lane (Yeti Lane)

With another chance to get my hands on some material from new bands making a name for themselves, I was presented with Yeti Lane, a group who are likely to be big this year.

But does their album reflect this, or are they all hype? Click here to find out.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - The Big Black and the Blue (First Aid Kit)

It's not often that I get to cover music by Swedish sisters who are either side of the legal drinking age, though you have to do it some time, I suppose.

Have a look at my review of First Aid Kit by clicking here.

Sound Screen: Music review - Handmade Life (Chris Wood)

This one's been out for a little while but after getting hold of a copy of it last month, I felt it necessary to get it covered as soon as I could for (the currently temperamental) Sound Screen.

Click here for the review.

inthenews.co.uk: Music review - Contra (Vampire Weekend)

I was given the chance to cover Vampire Weekend's newest offering, Contra, this week after it became available on MySpace for the week. Happy days, thought I, as the album was a brilliant one to review.

Why? Click here to find out more.

Sound Screen: Music review - Me & Orson Welles Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Various Artists)

And so on to more things for Sound Screen - a veritable backlog of things put back due to Christmas and other commitments. Expect a few of these to come through in the next few weeks and months!

For now, here's the review for the soundtrack to Me & Orson Welles.

Sound Screen: Music review - Brainlove Records / Fear of a Wack Planet (Sound Screen Album of the Year submission)

As part of my Album of the Year megatask, I also submitted my own piece for the feature, choosing Brainlove Records' excellent Fear of a Wack Planet as my entry. I covered it earlier in the year so it's a bit of a rehash for the most part, plus a little more reflection in the months I've had it since.

Additionally, I covered a few others I'd reviewed during the year as my favoured artists alongside those with Brainlove.

I'm in part five of five for the piece, which can be found by clicking here.

Sound Screen: Album of the Year 2009

Start as you mean to go on, right? I'm kicking off this year with the most ambitious thing I've done with my desired career thus far - with help from some great writers, of course. In December, I proposed an Album of the Year piece to fellow writers with Sound Screen as a kick-start to my new role as music editor with the website.

My theory was to bring everyone together in a common cause while also giving them the creative freedom to do what they wanted. As a result, I got 14 people signed up in a matter of weeks and after sending them a template to follow, I managed the separate offerings to ensure there were no crossovers or double reviews. In the end, everyone did a great job and I set about subbing the 7-8,000 words I was given, as well as writing one myself. It included the standardisation of grammar, terminology (album titles, song names, etc) as well as ensuring the template I set out was consistently formatted after having minor changes in each copy.

I split them into five different articles in order to make it easier to digest from the reader's perspective while also giving the groups of three reviews more individual emphasis and attention from anyone looking at them.

On top of this, I created a central landing page which is currently frozen on the front page in order for people to read specific reviews and get the idea of what we're going for.

I wrote the blurbs, posted the photos, messed with the HTML to get it working and also got more to grips with Wordpress. I'm genuinely proud of what I've achieved, though it obviously wouldn't have been anything without the fantastic efforts off my 14 cohorts.

Here's to another few of these contribution pieces, but it's part of the reason I was so low on articles in December (alongside the obvious commitments to Christmas and family, etc).

Here's the link to the Album of the Year landing page.

If you want a mixed bag or lucky dip of entries, here's part I, part II, part III, part IV and part V.