Wednesday, 21 June 2017

Bastille @ The Eden Sessions



Bastille - during their final song, Pompeii

Bastille @ The Eden Project

Energetic, Entertaining and Enthusiastic


The Eden Project has always been one of the top, if not the best, venues in Cornwall since they began in 2002 with Pulp - also the first gig I went to! So yes- a little biased- but I firmly believe there's something unique about the experience. I still remember the bareness of the old clay pit - which as I return again and again appears greener every time.


Bastille has been a household name ever since their debut album, Bad Blood, and the mega-hit that was their single Pompeii, I have to admit, with a weakness for History, I have a high appreciation for their story telling throwbacks. During another early hit, Icarus,  Frontman Dan Smith, primary songwriter and founder, wound his way through the crowd. He made sure even those at the back felt fully involved as those early birds who had managed to grab a front spot by the stage before even Rationale (supporting) took to the stage.


They had energy and some sharp political commentary on Theresa May - an actor dressed as her on a screen mimed and held a book with the words "strong and stable" on the cover. The stand out though is the recording studio quality music and singing. It's a gig which will surely be remembered fondly by the audience for a lifetime. 

Top Tracks

Top Tracks

Roasting in the studio today!

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

The Lovin' Spoonful - Summer in the City



Kylie Minogue - Can't Get You Out of My Head



Nena - 99 Red Balloons




The Kinks - Sunny Afternoon



Buggles - Video Killed the Radio Star

Saturday, 17 June 2017

Top Tacks and Summer Sounds

Top Tracks, Golowan & Summer Sounds

Some of the best picks this week include Bastille and Madness who will both performed at the Eden Project this week, kicking off one of the best Summer line-ups to date! This entry is a bit late, as I was in the crowds at Bastille myself! Pictures will be up soon!

Don't forget Golowan starts this week 16th - 25th June - follow the What's on Diary for more details. 

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Bastille - Icarus


Noisettes - Don't Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby, Go)



Shakira - Whenever, Wherever




The Boo Radleys - Wake Up Boo!



Madness - It Must Be Love

Saturday, 10 June 2017

BBC Blast From the Past - Blast in Penzance 2010

Cover for Penzance Wex (Work Experience) Facebook Page - Pictures Edited by Rhiannon Richards

Nearly seven years ago, the BBC Blast Tour came to the Wharfside Car Park in Penzance. 


Today's post is a throwback to when I achieved a Work Experience Placement during their BBC Blast Tour. It was a brilliant time, working as a member of the Work Experience Team. Truly a group effort, we were partnered with Event Cornwall, travelling to local schools encouraging Children to sign up for creative workshops. I had a crash course in using brand new computer programmes used to play and manufacture music and then help teach children visiting the mobile van. Other workshops that took place included Dance with the Big Dance Company, whose group Flava reached Britain's Got Talent 2008 semi-finals.

On the last day, we helped to put together an event with entertainment showing just what all the teens attending had achieved. This was my first real experience working as a floor manager- You can check out the final Showcase on the archived website here

Image from Penzance Wex Facebook Page

Wednesday, 7 June 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks & Wonder Woman Review

Wonder Woman is the film which had the most to lose and everything to gain - and it more than delivered. 


 

*** Spoiler Warning ***

Diana (Gal Gadot), Princess of Themiscyra , is something of an innocent at the start of the film- albeit a fully trained Amazon - optimistic she can stop the war by killing her one true nemesis, Ares the God of War (David Thewlis). Anyone vaguely familiar with comics knows that whilst Wonder Woman is truly iconic, there's no one Wonder Woman story that stands out as definitive to the wider population- no "one true" villain such as a Joker or a Luthor. Cleverly, this is turned into a strength. Experiencing the reality of World War One, Diana begins to doubt that her own nemesis even exists, and begins to question the futility of helping mankind when it becomes clear that there are no "good guys" and "bad guys." There's also something refreshing in how her innocence isn't mocked or demeaned but used to expose absurdities in the real world.

This is definitely a homage to the first Captain America film - through more than just the blond haired blue eyed Steve played by an actor named Chris (Pine) and the band of misfits that could stand in for the "Howling Commandos." However, it's opening sequence and presence of Gal Gadot's portrayal that really sets itself apart. After years of Iron Man, Batman, Spider-Man... Wonder Woman going over the top of the trenches was something we needed to see. It meshes one of the darkest periods of humanity with a sense that optimism in the best of us is not just ok, but essential. Whilst the centre of the film drags a little, the action was well done if not groundbreaking. The only odd directorial moment I thought was at the end was when Diana retrieves her sword after Ares reveals himself, which probably could have been smoothed over as it didn't have any dramatic significance.

The first female-led superhero movie since the less than stellar outings of Catwoman and Elektra had high expectations- it could kill hopes for another ten years, or it could prove that it's not just a niche market and the appetite is there. Surpassing both fan and critic's expectations despite the slightly weak end,  it remains to be seen if the Justice League, the next big challenge for DC and Warner Bros, will live up to this new bar.

Top Tracks

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

The Jam - Eton Rifles


Ellie Goulding - Anything Can Happen



Roxy Music - Love is the Drug




Robbie Williams - Let Me Entertain You



Dusty Springfield - I Just Don't Know What To Do

Wednesday, 31 May 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks

Top Tracks

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Tears For Fears - Shout



Olly Murs - Dear Darlin'




Peggy Lee - Fever



Outkast - Hey Ya



Sam Brown - Stop


Friday, 26 May 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks & Food Artist UK (New Blog!)

Top Tracks & Food Artistry

A belated post from Wednesday- but I hope everyone enjoyed this week's Sun!

Recently I have started up a second blog in partnership with several other Sheffield Postgraduate students starting this September, known as Food Artist UK (changed from Food Stalker Time). With a mutual love of finding the best food and coffee around, we hope to share our ideas and fun places to go. Check out my first entry:
"The Local's Guide to the Cornish Pasty"
But don't miss out on Rachael's Tapas, Noods & Fries!!!

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Panic at the Disco - Victorious




Simon and Garfunkle - Sound of Silence




David Bowie - China Girl



Lady Ga Ga - Born this Way



Snow Patrol - Set Fire to the Third Bar



Wednesday, 17 May 2017

Bird is the Word

a.k.a. Avian Adventures in Cornwall


So, this last month I've been getting to know some local wild birds. The seagulls are nesting, which means dodging them early in the morning when they're after freshly mown grass. Par for the course for a Cornish Woman, so far, but the kicker came on a bus journey to work. The hazards of living in the countryside normally involve getting stuck behind a tractor on the roads. What you don't necessarily expect is to see a chicken cross the road. And then the next day get double vision. These local escapees live in Crowlas, mugshots below. Anyone with any information as to the origins of these nefarious garden invaders are invited to comment below! 








On a more serious note, a couple of weeks ago I came across an injured Blackbird with missing tail feathers, which is when I learned that I had no idea what do in this situation. And I met a very lovely neighbour from down the road, who offered me a cup of tea whilst I took a break from re-enacting a Benny Hill sketch in her front garden (whilst taking care not to needlessly stress the animal). Sadly, it managed to dart back under a car and into a hedgerow so we have no idea if it managed to escape the many cats of Penzance. 

I contacted an expert who works at Mousehole Bird Hospital who gave the following advice:
They are tough to catch. Usually best to drop a hand towel or similar over the top of it. That way you won't damage the wings too much when you scoop it up. If it's in your garden you might have to build up it's trust by feeding it and standing still while it eats. If you catch it pop it in a box with a small thing of sugared water and either some raw meat or pet food. Your local vet should take it in or if you know someone with a car bring it in to the bird hospital. Open 9-5, 7 days a week
More details are available on their website.

And for a little bit of fun (Remember the Campaign to get this to Number One in 2010?) 

Art for Fun

Art for Fun @ the Pendeen Centre Thursday Afternoons


Today I spoke with Rosie Schneider, who runs a Art for Fun group that encourages people to explore their creativity, for all ages and all abilities. She doesn't believe that there is anyone who can't do Art! Come along, meet people, get involved!


It could be anything from making an outfit from bin bags - a punk, a goth or Queen Victoria - or it could be painting with bamboo sticks whilst standing on a chair. 


It's £10 for 2 hours, some materials are provided. For more information please contact Rosie on 01736 787872.

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks

Top Tracks

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Gnarls Barkley  Crazy


REM - All the Way to Reno


Lenny Kravitz - Fly Away


The Kinks - Lola


David Gray - Babylon


Wednesday, 10 May 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks & Mental Health Awareness Week

Top Tracks & Mental Health Awareness Week

An issue which hits home for many of us, poor mental health will affect two thirds of us during our lifetime. If you need help or just someone to talk to you can contact the Samaritans on 116 123, a free phone number from any phone. 

For local services please get in contact with your GP or Outlook South West.

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Fleetwood Mac - The Chain



Sting - Fields of Gold



Fatboy Slim - Praise You


Joe Cocker - You are Beautiful to Me


The Clash - London Calling

Wednesday, 3 May 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tacks

Top Tracks 

A chilled out lunchtime during a spectacularly sunny morning!

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing


Eva Cassidy - Imagine


The Beatles - Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds


Florence and the Machine - Cosmic Love


Duffy - Warwick Avenue

Sunday, 30 April 2017

Amber Kitchen Talks Her Championship Fight and All Things Muay Thai


A few weeks ago, Amber Kitchen, came into the studio to discuss her upcoming title fight Rumble in Redruth / Easter Beaster! 


An absolute delight to have in the studio, we talk all things Muay Thai, tough training regimens, how she feels stepping into the ring and how you can get involved yourself!


Presented and Edited by Rhiannon Richards.


With thanks to David Hackett for assistance on the day. 




Wednesday, 26 April 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks

Top Tracks 

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Maroon 5 - Payphone



David Guetta - Titanium ft. Sia


Pink Floyd - Another Brick in the Wall



U2 - Beautiful Day


Electronic Light Orchestra - Mr Blue Sky

Wednesday, 19 April 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks and Takeover

Coast Lunchtime Takeover!

In the second hour, Coast FM introduced Luke and Thomas, visiting from university, keeping West Cornwall up to date with the latest Sport and some great tunes. 

Top Tracks 

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

The Rolling Stones - Sympathy for the Devil


The Kooks - Ooh La


No Doubt - Hey Baby


Donna Summer - Hot Stuff


Layla - Eric Clapton


Thursday, 13 April 2017

Easter Weekend - Mini Fair in Penzance & Vintage Bus Running Day


Paella, kebabs, burgers galore. Plus some pretty good Brownies. 

As it happens, I was coming home from work and I found (smelled!) this going on just over the road from the Bus Station! If you look closely, you can also spot some face painting, cotton candy and the bar in the background ;)  I caught it at a quiet time, but expect this to get absolutely packed over the bank holiday.



The 10th Penzance Vintage Bus Running Day is also taking place on Easter Sunday

Hopefully the fair will still be up and running for the drivers and their crew who are providing free trips around the local area this Sunday. Speaking as a public transport aficionado - normal buses are limited over the bank holiday, so make the most of it!  Click here for more details. 


Wednesday, 12 April 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Rumble in Redruth and Top Tracks Played Today

Easter Beaster - Rumble in Redruth - April 16th 2017

A date to watch out for! Amber Kitchen came into the studio today to record an interview to discuss her title fight happening at the Zone Nightclub in Redruth this Easter Sunday. The full interview will be uploaded after it has been broadcast on Coast FM. 

Doors open at 3:30pm Tickets to the event are £20. 

For more information check out her and her sister Allaya's facebook page here 

Top Tracks 

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

David Bowie - Rebel Rebel



Joss Stone - Super Duper Love (Are you diggin' on me?)



Bruno Mars - Just the Way You Are



Snow Patrol - Run



Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell - Ain't No Mountain High Enough



Wednesday, 5 April 2017

Coast Lunchtime - Top Tracks

Top Tracks 

Coast Lunchtime 12:00 - 14:00
@ Coast FM 96.5 & 97.2

Coldplay - Viva la Vida


Robbie Williams - No Regrets


 REM - Bad Day


Kate Bush - Babooshka


The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)

Saturday, 1 April 2017

Interview with Daisy Clark, Rising Youtube Star

In February I had the chance to speak with Daisy Clark, the eighteen year old singer songwriter from Cornwall, the very week she went viral and appeared on the BBC, Channel 5 and in the national newspapers. She spoke to Coast FM over the phone the day after she appeared on Blue Peter in Manchester. We chat about everything from her new single, Hopelessly Devoted to You, to favourite musicals, inspirations and the right way to make a cream tea.


Presented by Rhiannon Richards and David Hill

Editing assistance provided by David Hackett

With special thanks to Dave Pascoe



Hopelessly Devoted to You Music Video


Daisy is set to appear at Boardmasters this year alongside the likes of Jamiroquai, Two Door Cinema Club, Idris Elba and Alt-J.

Thursday, 30 March 2017

Introducing... Radio Ra Ra

A collection of interviews, mild mannered musings and a highlight reel for events in Cornwall. Welcome to Radio Ra Ra!

Rhi, here. I'm a presenter @ Coast FM, currently on air between 12.00 - 14.00 every Wednesday. I'll be uploading my portfolio of work, plus a few inspirations, as often as I can. Thanks for listening! 

Interview with Daisy Clark, Rising Youtube Star

In February I had the chance to speak with Daisy Clark, the eighteen year old singer songwriter from Cornwall, the very week she went viral ...