On Neeps, Noodles and Nudity

Today marks the birthday of Robbie Burns, Scotland’s classic poet, and is meant to be marked by drinking whisky and eating a full meal of neeps, tatties and haggis (no maple syrup though).

However, I did nothing of the kind today, instead going for a Japanese noodle meal at the newly opened Wagamamas in Glasgow which seemed appropriate after finally seeing Lost In Translation at the cinema. This film was excellent on so many levels – acting, cinematography, soundtrack. The way the central theme of the film is explored but without a set story - events unfold with a natural rhythm all while portraying the sights and sounds of modern Tokyo. Where no questions are answered and nothing really changes, but you’re happy to have experienced what you’ve seen. Funny and sad all at the same time. The film felt very real to me with its scenes of hotel living. Despite the obvious cultural differences, there were many similarities that vividly recalled to me my time spent living in a hotel during the latter part of 2003. In short, a wonderful film that I would highly recommend.

Happy to report that our old friend the Naked Rambler finally made it to John O’Groats, after having to spend several months in jail for public indecency. Dude must have been seriously cold for those last few days – Northern Scotland is a cold place even for the clothed.

Had a chance to catch an excellent band, Croft No. 5, as part of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival. At their core, they are a traditional Celtic band but combined this sound with funky guitar and bass and even a rapper for a few songs. One of our friends works for the festival, and managed to get us VIP passes which allowed entry into the after-party at the Central Hotel (right above Central Station) where we were able to see a few more acts work their fiddle and accordian magic, including an excellent duo from Cape Breton.