Sunday Culture
I’ve had a week of travelling to courses and conferences. As an introductory faculty icebreaker to delegates on day 1 of course 1, we were asked to share something we were grateful for. To me, it was the solo train time I had to finish a book. ‘What book’ they asked. I hadn’t the heart for vibe killing honesty so I kept the fact I completed the essay collection ‘For and Against a United Ireland‘ to myself. I’ve recommended it here before and I heartily commend you to that but it wasn’t exactly the craic for a light hearted introductory statement…
What I’ve been watching
I treated myself to a post on call cinema trip last weekend to see the new Peaky Blinders film before it hits Netflix. If you’re a fan, it’s worth it for the ear shattering and chest bursting surround sound soundtrack. Grian Chatten of Fontaines DC oversaw the soundtrack with a stunning combination of original music and covers. One underground scene features a stomping cover of one of my favourite songs from the 90s. And it was a thrill to feel the audience’s excitement at seeing Tommy Shelby again. NO FIGHTING!
What I’ve been listening to
My favourite radio show is back for one episode only. For the last few years, Cillian Murphy of the above gif and film has hosted a show on BBC Radio 6 where he lets the listener in on some of his vast and excellent record collection. This latest one shamelessly showcases parts of the Peaky Blinders soundtrack but has once again introduced me to something special. Previously it was Lankum, this time it’s the Quebecois duo ‘Angine de Poitrine’. Audio deliciousness. Thanks Cillian!
What I’ve been reading
The most vociferous recommendation I’ve had from pals for an audiobook this week has been ‘Project Hail Mary’ and I’ve dived in whilst doing the post travel flat clean. I’m hooked. The narrator has a delightful Chandler Bing quality to his storytelling. Have no idea where it is going….
Bonus exhibition!
I wandered into the National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh on a day off this week. I adore this place, the grand hall itself is worth the visit. I stumbled into a free exhibition of an aerial photographer I had never heard of- the brilliant daredevil Alfred Buckham who pioneered composite photography techniques using snaps he’d taking hanging out of a biplane. Astonishing stuff and occasionally reminiscent of a Turner painting.
The week ended with a sad news for Buffy fans that the proposed revival series hasn’t been picked up. Here’s hoping it gets fully greenlit. As a wise woman once said, if the apocalypse comes, beep me….
Deirdre x
