Sunday 24 November 2013

Celebrated People

Hello,

Today Crimson Clocks Tower is filled with activity and noise, allow me to assuage your curiosity as to the reasons for this. We are celebrating four birthdays this weekend one of which is a 50th, you probably already know Who that relates to.

As to the other three they are Rev. William Webb Ellis (born 24 November 1806), a man with a penchant for holding his strangely shaped ball (rather than kicking it). Which is to say he is, as you no doubt know, credited with inventing the game of rugby football. Another victorian invention that remains popular to this day.

We are also raising a glass to heroine Grace Darling (born 24 November 1815). In the early hours of a September morning while looking out from one of the windows of Longstone Lighthouse, Grace spotted a wreck and its survivors on a nearby low lying rocky island. Having realised it was too rough for the lifeboat to set out Grace and her father took to a rowing boat and managed to rescue four people. Her heroic actions have been immortalised in song and in a poem by William Wordsworth.



Finally we are also celebrating the birthday of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (born 24 November 1864), famous for his colourful and provocative images of the decadent times in which he lived. He was closely linked to the theatrical side of Paris particularly the Moulin Rouge, having been commissioned to produce a series of posters for that establishment.

All of which brings us rather nicely to the subject of dancers and entertainment. Tickets are now available for Frosty Belles and Whistles, featuring our good selves, a host of burlesque dancers, Birthrite, BB Black Dog and Professor Elemental. Further details can be found on Facebook, we hope to see you there.

As ever, if you would like to contact us please do via our Facebook page or website, thanks for reading and until next time farewell.





Sunday 17 November 2013

Once Upon A...

Hello,

The next few weeks will see us busy preparing for Frosty Belles and Whistles which takes place on the 8th of December. Meanwhile, in a library on the other side of town (not literally the other side of town), Linzi will be appearing at Steampunk in Dudley on the 21st of November. The rest of the band will of course be busy doing essential works, striving to make the world a better place and not gallivanting around enjoying themselves.

I tell you this in confidence so please keep it to yourself, but unbeknown to one member of the band, the rest of us are currently writing 'Cinderella The Steampunk Pantomime'. This version features  a steampunk band, three of whom are expected to slave away night and day to keep Crimson Clocks Tower their home clean and tidy while the remaining member (possibly the vocalist) goes off to Dudley Library the ball for a wonderful evening of entertainment. We have a feeling it will prove to be very popular (Oh yes it will!), well, three of us do anyway. All we need to do now is design a brass slipper, a clockwork carriage, write the music, and success is assured. 

If you can't wait until the aforementioned pantomime has been finalised to see us (and lets face it, it could be a long wait) we will be at Frosty Belles and Whistles as mentioned above, and don't forget that next year we will be at the Steampunk Experience at Alt-Fest in the summer along with many other steampunk bands. We will of course be appearing in a variety of guises and locations between now and Alt-Fest and will keep you informed of our plans.



As ever, if you would like to contact us please do so via our website or Facebook page, thanks for reading and until next time farewell.

Sunday 10 November 2013

Home Again

Hello,

We are home, home again. It has to be said that we do like to be here when we can. We have returned home cold and tired, and as Pink Floyd found, it's good to warm our feet beside the fire. The furnaces are burning once again, and Crimson Clocks Tower is full of activity.

All activity will of course cease for a few moments this morning as we stop to remember those that have served, and that are currently serving their country.

While we were away we have been quite busy and, despite being in parts unknown, have managed to record six more songs that will be available shortly for your listening pleasure. We had many strange encounters during our travels, and will tell you all about them - what happens on the road (while under the influence) is promulgated as rapidly as possible. One of the group (not naming any names but you can probably guess which one) has returned home with a shrunken head of which they are very proud. One can only hope it returns to normal size before our next on stage appearance because they do look rather foolish at present.

Speaking of our next appearance it will be at The Roadhouse, Birmingham on December 8th and as the poster below shows it is a Christmas burlesque extravaganza.



The Facebook page for Frosty Belles and Whistles can be found here and the tickets can be purchased here it will be a great way to start December.

If you would like to contact us we can be reached via our Facebook page or website, until next time thanks for reading and farewell.

Sunday 29 September 2013

Here Be Dragons


The shutters on the windows of Crimson Clocks Tower have been closed, and the Tower is cold and empty, the only sound to be heard within is the occasional ticking of the boilers in the cellar as they cool. The Crimson Carriage stands on the gravel driveway waiting. Instruments have been packed in the Carriage along with supplies and accoutrements, and we know where our overnight stops will be for the first leg of the journey. Beyond that things become more than a little uncertain, with the only certainty being that the journey must be taken regardless of the consequences.

(Photo courtesy of davefrithphoto.com)

Our destination on the map is marked "Here be dragons", and while we are eager to be on our way we are also vaguely uneasy about what may lie ahead. 

Now, as the door to the Tower closes and is locked, the journey can no longer be delayed. Everyone is on board, the carriage wheels begin to turn. As the gates to the grounds close behind us we are going and may be some time. Ah yes.... one last thing before I forget....we'll be back.  

Sunday 22 September 2013

Within These Walls

Hello,

Lately there has been a lot of banging and a deep rumbling noise at Crimson Clocks Tower, and as its been some time since curry was last consumed within these walls it can only mean one thing. The rhythm section of Crimson Clocks have been busy recording their parts for our forthcoming CD. So busy have they been in fact that they have already completed all six tracks. The violin and oboe will be recorded next and followed shortly afterwards by the vocals. If things go according to plan then the CD may even be available in time for Christmas, whilst we would would love it if the plan came together, nothing is for certain.



While we are on the subject of CD's, our Ingeniously Evil CD is available via our website, which is a marvel of engineering and design all hand built by our drummer Steve and powered by the steam from superheated Marmite. You'll either love it or hate it, there's no in between. If you haven't visited the website before please do, it is a wonder to behold even if we do say so ourselves. Speaking of the web, we also have our own page on the Alt Fest site here, while the link for the Steampunk Experience can be found here.

As ever, if you would like to get in touch please do via the aforementioned website, or via our Facebook page. Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell.





Sunday 15 September 2013

What Madness?

Hello,

Things have been strangely quiet at Crimson Clocks Tower this week. A certain member of the band is currently away "holidaying", truth be told they are actually in an asylum. Word has reach the Towers that whilst there, they are on what could be described as a progressive diet. Progressing from flies to spiders to birds, hopefully that will be where it ends, but that's all strictly between you and me of course. Mum's the word.

One can only begin to image the changes this "holiday" will wreak on the psyche of the individual in question. They may never be the same again (with no small amount of luck!). In amongst all of this uncertainty there is one thing of which you can very sure, change is afoot. The matter of whether it will be for the better and exactly what that change will be, remains to be seen (and possibly heard).



As if all that wasn't enough to give one pause for thought, throughout the week there has been a strange presence within Crimson Clocks Tower. A shadowy figure glimpsed from the corner of the eye, on the very edge of one's vision. Objects have been placed down only to go missing, then reappear later in unexpected places. These strange events have also been accompanied by an all pervasive smell. It would seem that the cleaner has made one of their bi-annual visits, and that this time they have been armed with an air freshener.

As ever, if you would like to contact us please do so via our webpage or through Facebook. Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell.

Sunday 8 September 2013

The Final Countdown!

Hello,

This weeks blog is very short and to the point, so thanks for reading and until next time.....

Actually it's not quite that short (as the actress said to the Bishop). Midnight tonight is decision time for Raising Steam in that if 40 tickets have by sold by then the festival goes ahead (Hurrah!). It should be fairly obvious that if sales are less than 40 tickets then steam won't be raised, there will be one less steampunk event to enjoy and four miserable faces in Crimson Clocks Tower.



It does state very clearly on the event page that if the festival does not go ahead there will be full refunds on all tickets (refunds don't include the fee added by Eventbrite though) - hopefully that means there won't be 300 (THIS IS STEAMPUNK!/ Tonight we dance in Reading!) people all wanting to go but waiting until the 9th of September to buy tickets just in case they can't get their money back. So, if after you have read this you could both be sure to tell the other 298 people what they need to do, then that would be most helpful.

It's worth bearing in mind that all profits from Raising Steam go to charity, so buying a ticket means you are supporting steampunk music, a good cause and will be having a great weekend.

The clock is ticking and the deadline is rapidly approaching - ticket prices have been reduced for this weekend only (details on the event page)  - the fate of Raising Steam is in your hands. Tickets are available here 

Thanks for reading, and until next week farewell.


Sunday 1 September 2013

Radio Radio

Hello,

Welcome to this weeks blog.

September sees us travelling to Reading for Raising Steam which takes place on the 21st and 22nd of the month. We will be playing on the 21st at the Curzon Club, please be aware that the event takes place at a different venue on the 22nd and that there will be a steampunk market on both days. Tickets are available here.

In other news Sounds of Steam, a radio show focussing on the steampunk genre and culture, have launched an Indiegogo Crowd Funding Project to raise money to purchase new equipment and to enable them to record live shows at various steampunk events. To find out more, and to take a look at the fantastic perks and rewards on offer go here. The show has supported us from our early days, they also have a very handsome cat in their video which is all the more reason to give them your support, so please take a look at their page.



Also on the subject of radio shows, this Tuesday (3rd of September) from 22:00 The CPR radio show on reading4u.co.uk will be broadcasting the second of three dedicated steampunk specials. Listen in to hear your favourite steampunk bands and for more details of the Raising Steam festival.

If you are in festival mood then don't forget that next August Crimson Clocks, along with many other steampunk bands can be seen and heard at The Steampunk Experience at Alt Fest tickets are already on sale.

In the meantime of course, if you would like to book Crimson Clocks for an event or make any comments please contact us via our facebook page or website.

Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell.

Sunday 25 August 2013

Shocking Shadow Looms Large!


SOMEDAY 
 SPRAT    
The Nations Favourite Chip Wrapper
25th August 2013
SHOCKING SHADOW LOOMS LARGE!
The Sprat has recently learned that Crimson Clocks intend to build a new shadow at Crimson Clocks Tower. An insider has revealed that they are busy building a new shadow and that it will be taller, darker edged and rough.

When we spoke with their next door neighbour, Mr Albert Theyrupta - Nogude (107), he had this to say "My property is only three quarters of a mile from Crimson Clocks Tower, if they go ahead with their plans to build a bigger shadow the amount of sunlight on my southern elevation could be reduced by 100%, if not more! If it hadn't been for The Sprat I would never have know about this until it was too late. I used to like living here but now I feel as though this shadow is deliberately coming after me. This used to be a respectable neighbourhood but not since that lot moved in, scattering coal all over the place with their steam engines and playing music at all hours. I've never seen the like! Now, you said you were going to pay me for this, where's me money?"

A source close to Crimson Clocks revealed that within Crimson Clocks Tower they have also been brewing an illicit drink. Our source described the drink as "smoking, glowing green", we have no hesitation in suggesting (without a shred of proof) that rock stars being what they are, once they take a drink they are certain to become something obscene.

The Sprat can only pity their poor neighbours (one of whom is slightly less poor since providing us with a mendacious quote). The combination of the plans to build a bigger shadow, and the brewing of a potion, leaves us certain that while Crimson Clocks may not get a hangover, their neighbours will most certainly pay the toll!

Now turn to Page 3 for the amazing true story of a missing kitten that was found alive and well inside a tin of custard!     



Sunday 18 August 2013

Raising Steam!


Hello, 

This weeks blog is brought to you by special guest blogger Steven C. Davis, lead author and Creative Director at Tenebrous Texts, presenter of the CPR radio show on Reading4u.co.uk and organiser of The Raising Steam Music Festival. Now it's over to Steven... 

Roll up, roll up, come one, come all to the Raising Steam music festival in Reading.

To either side of you you’ll see some excellent Steampunk traders offering you their wares – take advantage, I urge you. Behind you now is the bar offering a fine range of drinkables; they also serve delectable food.

Preparing themselves to begin this afternoon’s engagements you can see our Masters of Ceremonies for the weekend, Jane Setter and Rob Ramsay, of Crimson Sky and Tinyfish, respectively.

I see you have purchased your ticket through Eventbrite: you could also have purchased it through the Oxfam music shop in Reading.



Over the course of the weekend you shall – for your delectation – be offered musical performances by Metropolis and Thy Last Drop from Bury St Edmunds. Flying down from Leeds, Helicopter Quartet will be opening Sunday’s proceedings while, from Oxford, the Mechanisms will be finishing off the whole weekend by bringing you the tale of Ulysses’ last day.

Singing songs of smugglers and Jack the Ripper, Gladstone hail from Northampton whilst London’s Tom Slatter brings a progressive twist to Steampunk with songs of self-made men and time travellers.



From the deepest, darkest West Country we have Miss Von Trapp opening the whole shenanigans, whilst from Exeter the Mysterious Freakshow will be bringing us into their world. From Birmingham and the Black Country come Birthrite and, from further afield, from the fair land of the Americas, we bring you none other than Montague Jacques Fromage with his SteampunkFunk Bizarre. And, lastly, but with great thanks to them for letting me write this blog, we have the Crimson Clocks.

Get tickets for your friends, neighbours, demon familiars and crew from Eventbrite and we’ll see all of you there! And if you need any further inducement, all profits go to the UK registered charity New Futures Nepal!

Steven C. Davis

Sunday 11 August 2013

Who Was That Top Hatted Superhero?

Hello,

Last night we were at Steampunk Stamford along with headliners BB Black Dog. If the rest of the event was as good as last night it was a fantastic weekend.

We took to the stage just after 7:30pm and had a blast, it was a great audience and a real pleasure to play to them. Our set included old favourites Red Violin and Evil Genius, and some of our newer numbers such as Shadow and our version of Master of The Universe. It was great to see people dancing during Limbo, it does mean of course that one gentleman's hidden superpower (of being able to dance the tango) is no longer secret. Like all true superheroes his identity remains a mystery (at least to your humble scribe) and the question remains, just who was that top hatted superhero?.

Following on from us BB Black Dog played a great set, and it was good to see their new line up. As per the title of their DVD they did indeed steal the show once again with another fine performance featuring some of their most popular numbers.



We would like to thank Lorna for inviting us to play and the work that she and helpers put in to make it such a great event. Thanks also to Axel for doing a great job with the sound during our set and to everyone there for making it so enjoyable.

Don't forget that we can be seen and heard along with a multitude of other bands at Raising Steam in Reading next month. Thanks for reading and until next time, farewell.

Sunday 4 August 2013

An August Occasion

Hello,

Next weekend (Saturday 10th August) sees us heading to Lincolnshire for Steampunk Stamford along with Gladstone and BB Black Dog, tickets are available here. The event features everything from steampunk croquet to steampunked pets and includes an author workshop by LM Cooke and Steven C. Davis.



You may be wondering if Trevor the cat will make an appearance, what the set list will be, whether it will include any rock classics and just exactly who the Evil Genius is. Answers may be provided on the night, the only way to find out is to be there.

Don't forget that in September we will be at Raising Steam which is taking place in Reading, more information can be found here.

Thanks for reading, we hope to see you in Stamford, until then farewell.

Sunday 28 July 2013

Booked!

Hello,

This weeks blog is somewhat brief, mainly because we are still recovering from last nights shenanigans at The Front Line Book Launch.

The evening began with ourselves (Crimson Clocks) and we were quickly followed by Victorian comedy from the hilarious Dr When.



Next came the book launch which included a reading or two and incidental music provided by Jo (with her usual brilliance I should add).

Birthrite then took to the stage with another great set featuring their most popular numbers.



Always good to see (and hear) and a brilliant headliner, Gladstone closed the evening with their energetic presence and songs of curses, murder and insanity to name but a few of the topics they covered. Theft should also be added to the list because they managed to steal the show. It was a blinding set, so blinding in fact that none of the photos we took during it actually worked.

Thanks to everyone that came, and in particular to Steven C. Davis, Paul Gaynor, and Kuldip Kang for their help on the night and Dan for his excellent work on the sound engineering.

Don't forget, your next chance to see Crimson Clocks (and Gladstone) is at Steampunk Stamford and in September we will be at Raising Steam - we hope to see you there.

Thanks for reading, and until next time farewell.

Sunday 21 July 2013

Prepare for Lunch/Launch

Hello,


Next Saturday (27th July 2013) sees us, Birthrite, Gladstone and Dr When at Ort for The Front Line Book Launch. So, there will be music, comedy, literature and even alcohol will be available. As if that is not enough reason to attend, there are also various highly esteemed traders selling a variety of goods.  What more could a person need on a Saturday night? (for decency's sake please note that was a rhetorical question).

Approximate timings for the book launch are as follows

Doors open at 19:00
19:30 - 20:10 Crimson Clocks
20:20 - 20:50 Dr When/Book Launch
21:05 - 21:50 Birthrite
22:05 - 22:50 Gladstone



Tickets are available in advance here or entry can be paid on the door.

In addition to the book launch the Punknic in the Park takes place the very same day in Cannon Hill Park (hence the title of this weeks blog) making Birmingham the place to be on the 27th of July. We hope to see you on the day.

Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell. 


Sunday 14 July 2013

Ingenious Relief!

Ingeniously Evil
Provides Instant Relief 
from bites (excludes lions and tigers) and a variety of ailments. It will cure earache, swelling of the throat, constriction of the throat, elongation of the throat (unless resulting from the judicial system), toothache (restricted to false teeth only), plague and lycanthropy. 


(Please note none of the claims made for this product have any basis in fact and are merely the falsehoods of an overpaid marketing guru)

Our 5 track CD is perfect for use in cases of aching muscles, stiff joints, strains, wrenches and spanners

Non-greasey Ingeniously Evil will not stain clothing, is suitable for use in public and has not been tested on animals. In fact it hasn't been tested. At all. Ever. On anything.

A single use is sufficient to provide instant mood enhancement. 
 This long lasting product can be used time after time and is available via our website or from the following reputable outlets



and
The Steampunk Experience At Alt-Fest 

Ingeniously Evil
Almost as effective as Snake Oil!

Sunday 7 July 2013

The Heat of The Moment

Hello,

Here in the British Isles we are currently experiencing a mini heatwave, generally this means that it hasn't rained in the last 10 minutes and the temperature has reached the sweltering heights of 14ºC. This heatwave has already lasted nearly 48 hours and reached 24ºC, as a result we expect a water shortage to be announced at any minute. Hopefully it won't get so bad that an ice cream shortage is announced.

Within Great Britain ice cream was a rare and expensive commodity until large quantities were imported during the Victorian era, and it wasn't until 1851 that the first ice cream stall opened outside Charing Cross Station. From there a scoop of ice cream in a shell could be purchased for one penny. So the availability of ice cream within this country is another thing we have to thank the Victorians for.



"That's all very well" I hear you say, "but what has this to do with the fabulous Crimson Clocks?". Allow me to explain, we are currently seated beneath a large parasol within the grounds of Crimson Clocks Tower, eating ice cream rather than writing music and perfecting our craft. Fear not though, as soon as the weather returns to normal we will regain our usual industrious mindset (that will be in about 10 minutes time then), and we are already prepared and eager for our next appearance which will be at the Front Line book launch. In addition, on the same day there will be another chance to sit in the sun at the Punknic in the Park, miss it if you dare. If you haven't got your ticket for the book launch yet then you should act now, this is no time for sitting about in the sun dilly dallying and eating ice cream, swift action is required. Besides if you sit there too long you could suffer from sunstroke and overindulge in Pimm's, and we really would be delighted to see you at the book launch. Having said that, if you arrive bright red with sunburn and looking like a lobster we may pretend not to notice you while surreptitiously staring at you from across the room. Hopefully that won't be the case though.

Thanks for reading, and until next time farewell.



  

Sunday 30 June 2013

It's Not Too Late

Hello,

Last night (29th June) we played at The Second Annual Steampunk Solstice at The Grand Pavilion in Matlock Bath. The event continues with a full programme today so it's still not too late to attend if you feel you are missing out (if you're not there you will be missing out).

It was a (very warm) night of fantastic music, and in addition there was a great variety of traders at the market earlier in the day. We added a couple of new songs to our set list, and had a great time on stage. Thanks go to Dale for inviting us to play, LMJ3 for introducing us and to Axel for doing a brilliant job with the sound. Axel can be seen in the accompanying picture working to get The Black Vines set up.


If you missed our new songs (one being our own version of a rock classic) don't worry, both of them will be performed at our next gig The Front Line Book Launch Party. Be sure to get your tickets before it's too late. In addition to Crimson Clocks the line up also includes Birthrite, Gladstone and Dr When.

We hope to see you there, until next time thanks for reading and farewell.

Sunday 23 June 2013

A Serious Contrast

Hello,

Thank you to everyone that listened in to the CPR show on Tuesday and to Stephen for hosting, we can only hope you all survived the experience unscathed.

 We are now less than a week away from The 2nd Annual Steampunk Summer Solstice it all starts from 16:00 (Derbyshire Riviera time) on 28th June. There is a full line up of bands on all three nights and an impressive list of traders that will be in attendance. We will be playing on the Saturday night (29th) and hope to see you there.

(Photo courtesy of Dave Frith Photo www.davefrithphoto.com)

You may recall from a couple of weeks ago a few behind the scenes pictures from our photo shoot with Mr Dave Frith, one of the results of which can be seen above. If you remember the pictures from a couple of weeks ago you may notice the contrast in expression of a certain individual between those and the one above. One might even say a serious contrast.

And finally, there are still a few trader places available for The Front Line book launch on 27th July, if you are interested please email us at crimsonclocks@crimsonclocks.com.

Thanks for reading and until next time farewell.

Sunday 16 June 2013

Spirited To The Radio

Hello,

This week sees (or possibly hears) our glorious leader Linzi spirited away to Reading to talk on the internet web radio Contemporary Progressive Rock show, hosted by Steven C. Davis. It all takes place at a computer near you on Tuesday 18th at 22:00 (UK time).

The mysteries of Crimson Clocks, The Automata Wars, life the universe and everything may well be revealed during the show, although Douglas Adams has rather spoiled the surprise on that last item. Listening to the show may even convince you to join the Crimson Army and help to spread the red.


Speaking of both Crimson Clocks and The Automata Wars leads rather nicely to an event involving both. Not only both of them but also Gladstone, Birthrite and Dr When. It is of course The Front Line book launch party which takes place on 27th July, and runs from 19:00 to 23:00. The event page can be found here tickets are already on sale and can be purchased for the measly sum of £6.50 here.

Thanks for reading, if you would like to get in touch please do through our facebook page, until next time farewell.

Sunday 9 June 2013

Happy Birthday Mr S.

Hello,

Today, 9th June is (as every steampunk knows) the birthday of Mr George Stephenson. Born in 1781, he would have been 232 years old today and would have needed a very large cake to accommodate all of the candles.

As per a rather well known song this Mr Stephenson was not the author of any works of fiction, we should stress that this includes a fictional pamphlet know as a Railway "Timetable". He did have a great influence on the railways though and was known as "The Father of The Railways", his rail gauge of 4 feet 8 1/2 inches is now the worlds standard gauge. Without him it is quite possible that Lord Belborough would not have been moved to sing the immortal words "Time flies by when I'm the driver of a train. And I ride on the footplate there and back again".



George Stephenson began his working career as a miner, but it wasn't until he was an adult that he designed his first locomotive. His success with the railways is well documented and partly as a result of this in 1847 he became the first president of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Interestingly the town of Matlock in Derbyshire is home to Peak Rail, a steam and diesel railway that will in in operation the same weekend as the Steampunk Summer Solstice in Matlock Bath. Yet another good reason to be there.

Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell.

Sunday 2 June 2013

Painting A Thousand Words

Hello,

It is often said that a picture paints a thousand words, so with that in mind Crimson Clocks recently had a photo shoot with photographer Mr Dave Frith. A few behind the scenes shots can be seen below and include the studio in preparation complete with a ghostly shadow, it could even be the ghost of things yet to come.


There was a wardrobe malfunction to contend with which Dave was able to solve, not doubt his previous experience of dealing with temperamental models came in very handy. Having said that the model in question looks less temperamental and actually seems to be having a bit too much fun from proceedings.


Eventually the clothing catastrophe was resolved, and the photo shoot got under way. It was a great experience, and we are very grateful to Dave for the time and trouble he took with us.


The results of the shoot will be available for public viewing in the near future.

Now, a quick reminder that tickets are available for The Front Line book launch which takes place on 27 July in Birmingham, the list of traders that will be in attendance at the event continues to grow. Be sure to get your ticket before it's too late.

Thanks for reading and until next time, farewell.

Sunday 26 May 2013

A Dream Of A Midsummer

Hello,

For those of us in the northern hemisphere the longest day of the year will soon be here. Travelling towards it at a speed of 18.5 miles a second, it will be upon us before we know it. Summer Solstice has long been a time of celebration, last year for the first time this included the Steampunk Summer Solstice in Wirksworth. Celebration of the summer solstice, or midsummer has changed over the years. In 15th Century England John Mirk of Lilleshall Abbey wrote "At first, men and women came to church with candles and other lights and prayed all night long. In the process of time, however, men left such devotion and used songs and dances and fell into lechery and gluttony turning the good, holy devotion into sin". The Steampunk Summer Solstice will certainly feature song, you can dance if you wish and there are plenty of places to eat in Matlock so gluttony is also an option. No doubt a quick dip in the rather cold River Derwent would put paid to any lechery.

Another change to the celebration this year is that the Steampunk Summer Solstice moves to The Grand Pavillion in Matlock Bath. If you remember the weather during last years event you will be relieved to know that this year it takes place indoors, in addition it is now a three day event. This is of course the first gig on Crimson Clocks Second Hand Tour which draws to a conclusion at Alt Fest 2014



The Steampunk Summer Solstice features BB Black Dog, Gladstone, Birthrite, Metropolis, Crimson Clocks and a host of other bands and entertainment. It all takes place on 28 - 30 June 2013, the market will open from 16:00 on the Friday and 11:00 on Saturday and Sunday. Bands will play from 18:00 to 23:00 each day. Tickets can be found here 

Matlock Bath is well worth visiting, and with the added attraction of this event it will be a weekend to remember, an absolute dream of a weekend in fact.

Thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell




Sunday 19 May 2013

The Front Line...

Hello,

We have recently mentioned that tickets for Alt Fest are selling quickly and that more details can be found at the Steampunk Experience event page however, we have failed miserably in making you aware of another fine event for which tickets are also now available.

The event in question is of course the launch of The Front Line, the second novel in the Automata Wars series. As if the launch of the novel wasn't enough without embellishment (which it really is), the event is embellished with comedy from Dr Agamemnon When and performances from Crimson Clocks, Gladstone and Birthrite. So, that's five excellent reasons to justify your attendance (The Front Line being the first). In addition, to make this event something to remember for years to come, Crimson Clocks will take the incredible step of performing songs with lyrics written by the author of The Home Front. Did we mention that the author is also our vocalist? Ah, in that case we must correct that oversight. The author is also our vocalist, that is not to suggest the books will be presented as an opera, not yet anyway.



If you have read The Home Front, the first novel in the series, then please be assured that this event will in no way resemble scenes describing the coming out party at the end of the first chapter. Or at least we hope not, although with an unknown enemy at large one can never be entirely certain about these things. Please bear in mind that the management can not be held responsible for any atrocities that may take place during the event. If you have yet to read The Home Front it is available from The Last Line Publishing, and shame on you for not having read such a fine piece of literature.

The launch takes place at ORT, in Birmingham on 27 July 2013 from 19:00 to 23:00, further details can be found at the event page. As mentioned above tickets are already on sale and are available here they are limited in number though so if you intend to be there you really ORT to make certain of yours sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment.

Thanks for reading, until next time, farewell.


Sunday 12 May 2013

Over The Electric Grapevine...

Hello,

Recently we have been heard on a number of independent radio shows, and are very grateful to them for including us. Listed below are links to shows that have played our music, if you haven't heard any of these before it's well worth listening to hear independent music that you may otherwise miss.

Sounds of Steam  - a steampunk themed international radio show with an ever growing audience 

CPR Radio show on Reading4u.co.uk - a steampunk infused blend of contemporary rock

Diane Green presents Independent Saturday Sounds - featuring a variety of unsigned musicians from around the world



Dark Gift Radio  - playing the best of metal - darkwave - hard rock - classic rock - industrial - punk - new wave - alternative - decades - 80's - EBM - electronik, gothic, gothic metal and symphonic metal. We were also hounoured to be the first band they reviewed in their blog. The review can be found here

Stu Vickers on Spitfire Radio  - The Home Groan Show, playing unsigned artists from the UK and all over the world.

It goes without saying that if you are hoping to hear the latest X-Factor winner then the shows listed are probably not the best places to go (a therapist may be though), if you want to hear new music and discover a whole new world of entertainment click on the links above - you never know what you might find.




Sunday 5 May 2013

The Second Hand Tour

Hello,

We are now in the midst of preparations for our 'Second Hand Tour'. This 15 month tour begins on the last weekend in June at The Second Annual Steampunk Solstice at The Pavillion in Matlock Bath, and reaches a grand finale at Alt Fest in August 2014.

Fifteen months is a long time to be on the road and so we have ensured that our carriage is fully stocked for the journey with tea, gin, cake, marmalade, marmalade cake and of course, two rashers of bacon. We expect to be able to resupply stocks during the journey as they deplete, although it is to be expected that the initial levels of bacon will prove to be somewhat excessive and may have to be ejected from the carriage to make room for more cake.



Our fifteen month mission is to explore strange new venues; to seek out new stages and new audiences; to boldly play where no Crimson Clocks have played before. The list of dates below is not exhaustive, extra dates will be added during the tour and you are free to begin a campaign to bring Crimson Clocks to a venue near you (please note bribes and/or payment  offered in bacon will not be accepted - we have plenty thank you!).





More Dates to be added (no figs though!)


Despite being so far into the future tickets for Alt Fest are selling quickly (as indeed are tickets for all of the events) so be sure to get yours before it's too late, and please be sure to tell them we sent you - and not that Big Dave sent you.


Thanks for reading, please feel free to get in touch, until next time, farewell





  

Sunday 28 April 2013

Hip Hip! HooRae!

It's safe to say that the Selling Mars book launch was a great success, a big thank you to Rae Gee for inviting us to perform at the event.

The evening began with a Crimson Clocks performance featuring a mashup of Mars from The Planet Suite by Gustav Holst and The Eve of The War from Jeff Waynes War of The Worlds. We should point out that any "jokes" told during our performance are strictly those of the individual and not representative of the sense of humour of Crimson Clocks as a group. Thanks also to those that came up to talk afterwards and said that they had enjoyed what we had done - it really does make it all worthwhile.



Rae Gee then took to the stage and gave a short reading from her excellent book Selling Mars, this being the second in the Veetu Industries. We highly recommend it and more details can be found here.



The mighty Birthrite then performed a brilliant set that saw many of the audience take to the dance floor and included classics such as Goodbye Happiness, and Heroes. It was a great end to what had been a fantastic night.

If you are wondering where you can see us next, we will be at the Second Annual Steampunk Solistice at The Pavillion, in Matlock Bath along with Birthrite and many other bands, we hope to see you there.

Sunday 21 April 2013

Leicester Literature Launch!

SOMEDAY 
 SPRAT    
The Nations Favourite Chip Wrapper
21st  April 2013
Crimson Clocks In Red Planet Shocker!!
The Sprat has discovered that highly regarded so called "steampunk" band Crimson Clocks have been linked to attempts to sell Mars, and we don't mean the confectionary. 

They, along with Birthrite, will be taking part in a night of what has been described as "Steampunk madness in the heart of Leicester". Are the poor residents of Leicester ready for this steampunk invasion? The Spratt has reason to think not. Our investigations have revealed that a few tickets for this event are still available on the internet, an underground source said "I am a mole, you dig?.". It has also come to our attention that high quality "Steampunk" literature will be changing hands at this event (the works of Rae Gee no less!). Will the poor citizens of Leicester get a chance to purchase this for themselves or will the horde of steampunks descending on Leicester like a plague of literature starved locusts purchase the entire stock? We suspect the latter may be the case. 

What of Crimson Clocks? What is their part in this? As ever, The Sprat has asked the questions that others fear to ask in an attempt to ensure our readership is fully informed with all of the facts. Where we don't have the facts we've been forced to rely on rumour and hearsay. Vivacious vocalist Linzi (21), from Birmingham, had this to say when we contacted her "Who is this? Do you have any idea what time it is?". Rockstars take note, The Sprat always wears a watch and requires answers not questions. Bass player Colin (93) said something when questioned, but no one (and that includes The Sprat) listens to bass players. Our attempts to contact Jo and Steve were both met with laughter and the sound of the phone being put down as soon as we were forced to admit we were indeed The Sprat.

Fear not though for The Spratt intends to be at the Selling Mars book launch, in disguise, inept and in over our head to bring you a full report after the event.

Late Breaking News!!
The Sprat has heard a whisper that Crimson Clocks will be on stage at Alt Fest 2014 also, in addition, as well as, and extra to that, they will be on stage at Raising Steam this September. Get your tickets before its too late!






Sunday 14 April 2013

We Has It, Yess...

We has the preciouss, yess. Keeper of the Door gives it to us when we gets there,  yess. Nice, kind Keeper of the Door, not tricksy like nasty hobbit, no. One ring that grants entry to all (that sounds a bit wrong I know, nevertheless onwards and upwards as they say).

If you missed The Day of The Dog then you really did miss out (and won't have a clue what the paragraph above is about). The day featured what was arguably the finest collection of steampunk and other bands ever amassed, including ourselves. We throughly enjoyed proceedings and it was great to meet up once again with folks that we see far too infrequently. Congratulations to Cas for organising such a fine and well run event and thanks to Ted for working his magic with the sound.







If you are currently hanging your head in shame, having missed our performance yesterday then fear not, all is not lost. Along with Birthrite we will be performing at the Selling Mars book launch in Leicester on 27th April, tickets are available here. The number of tickets is strictly limited, so be sure to get yours soon - the price also includes a goodie bag. Things kick off at 8:00 pm, it promises to be a great evening.

Sadly we have reached the end of this instalment, thanks for reading, and until next time, farewell.





Sunday 7 April 2013

Journeys End...

7 April  1813

Dearest Husband,

You will be pleased to learn that I have at last arrived in Matlock Bath and have put the sad incident in Derby behind me, although the case remains a mystery.

As I was preparing to leave Derby I was approached by a lady who enquired if she might share the journey with me. I was glad of the company and, following recent events, was rather doubtful about continuing the journey alone. And so the two of us together with what I took to be her manservant set out towards my destination. 

The manservant was in sharp contrast to the lady in that from her eyes shone a keen intellect, while his were rather dull, in addition while she was rather slim and elegant he resembled a slab of granite that had been squeezed into a suit and topped with a bowler hat. He appeared to be the kind of gentleman that could stroll through a brick wall without a pause in his stride, and not greatly troubled by having a conscience.



At first I felt glad of the protection he could clearly offer, I had overheard muttered conversations of a large hound in the area. Indeed, when people spoke of this black dog they became so nervous they developed a slight stammer. As the journey continued I became increasingly aware of an aura of malevolence about the pair. In fact our conversation lead me to the conclusion that the lady was power mad and intent on gaining wealth and position by use of a variety of unpleasant and devious schemes. 

After what seemed like an eternity we arrived in Matlock Bath and I parted company with the malevolent intellectual and her goon, not a moment too soon I might add. I now have less than a week to wait until I finally get to witness a Crimson Clocks performance. I may even get to meet the man that one day may be Prime Minister as I have heard that Gladstone will also be in attendance. I intend to spend the next few days exploring the thriving Metropolis that is Matlock Bath, the scenery here is magnificent. 

I remain, as ever, your loving wife

E C-S





Sunday 31 March 2013

2,332,800 Seconds to Selling Mars

Hello,

Welcome to this weeks blog, as the title suggests there are 2,332,800 seconds until the Selling Mars book launch, or at least that was the case when I began. At the launch (on 27th April)  you will be able to hear the sonic forces that are Crimson Clocks and Birthrite in addition to which the books Mars on The Rise and Selling Mars will be available for purchase. So that's good music and fine literature both readily available, as indeed are tickets which can be purchased here



Prior to the aforementioned spectacular we will be appearing, like a crimson wraith, at the Day of The Dog on 13th April in Matlock Bath. There will be a great line up of bands performing, and tickets can be obtained here


So that's two opportunities to experience a live Crimson Clocks performance during April, come along and help to spread the red (in a good way).

Thanks for reading, until next time farewell.