King charles looking very frail now on first public appearance since cancer diagnosis.
Dark.
Harper is not wrong tho. KCIII does look suddenly very frail. Feck. Another coronation on the way?!
They will need to reincorporate Harry at this rate
Poor Charles. He waited so long for the job and now it looks as though it may be either very fleeting, or clouded by illness
I’ve rather warmed to KCIII during his brief reign. A bit woke and somewhat quirky but a nice chap, ultimately
And completely right about architecture
We watched the final episode of The Crown yesterday, where he marries Camilla. If it’s at all representative of the real person, he does seem a decent chap. I can’t understand people who hate the Royals for being born into that life, I wouldn’t swap places with them in a million years
Does this mean that Starmer now has to demand his own resignation?
????
Not getting you there. Starmer is arguing against an offensive in Rafah. That would therefore become Labour policy. Perhaps he thinks now is the moment for a ceasefire?
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
I’m really not a Trump fan, but he has a point that Europe has for too long relied on the US for its own defence, and needs to step up.
If European countries start buying more American weapons, then Trump will be all in favour of keeping NATO alive. He’s a zero-sum type of guy.
Yes, he absolutely has a point. The free ride for Europe is coming to an end
Er, the point is that Trump isn't merely complaining about funding contributions. He's actively forming a partnership with Putin to invade Europe.
Putin is currently in no position to invade anything else.
Currently.
Poland is apparently heavily investing in building up its fleet of tanks. They are not sanguine about Putin's intentions.
If Polands statements are to be taken at face value, they plan having more tanks/SPGs and a larger airforce than Russia. At least than that Russia can actually field.
The sums add up - they afford the weapons.
It does make you wonder about the balance of power in Eastern Europe, doesn’t it?
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Fab women's q&a session with Labour's @lisanandy, MP and Rochdale's brilliant candidate @CllrAzharAli It was great to hear Labour's plans for Govt and how places like Rochdale, forgotten by the fictitious Tory levelling up,will be prioritised for growth. #GeneralElectionNow
it is perfectly possible the Republican controlled House could try and impeach Biden, however given the Senate remains Democrat controlled it has no chance of leading to a conviction before the next presidential election
I think ‘control’ is a generous word for what Republicans have in the House…
They couldn’t organise the impeachment of James in a Roald Dahl story.
Is that the one where assorted bugs eat the Grand Old Peach from the inside out?
There is considerable justification for being pro Israel. There is no justification for antisemitism. I presume people get that?
Jeremy Corbyn didn't. He conflated Luciana Berger with Likud, and he had plenty of little helpers that agreed.
The one thing in favour of May for the election, from the PM’s point of view, is that Labour might be about to tear themselves apart over the Middle East conflict.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
He also has a point. Why on earth should Americans continue to spend blood and treasure defending nations who are easily able to afford a lot more money on defence, but prefer to spend it on early retirement and welfare states that Americans do not get
Looking at you, Ireland, Austria and Slovenia
Ireland - control of GIUK Austria - a dagger at the heart of Europe Slovenia - the soft underbelly (well armpit anyway)
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
King charles looking very frail now on first public appearance since cancer diagnosis.
Dark.
Harper is not wrong tho. KCIII does look suddenly very frail. Feck. Another coronation on the way?!
They will need to reincorporate Harry at this rate
If Charles has started chemo he'll be feeling like shit and there's worse to come. But it doesn't preclude a complete recovery to normal health. Eventually.
Indeed and William is 16 years older than Elizabeth II when she became Queen anyway and all his children are now ahead of Harry in the line of succession too
There is considerable justification for being pro Israel. There is no justification for antisemitism. I presume people get that?
Jeremy Corbyn didn't. He conflated Luciana Berger with Likud, and he had plenty of little helpers that agreed.
The one thing in favour of May for the election, from the PM’s point of view, is that Labour might be about to tear themselves apart over the Middle East conflict.
Maybe, but the Tories are even more riven, so it is difficult to see any direct advantage to Sunak, save for Labour majorities slashed in safe seats.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
I’m really not a Trump fan, but he has a point that Europe has for too long relied on the US for its own defence, and needs to step up.
If European countries start buying more American weapons, then Trump will be all in favour of keeping NATO alive. He’s a zero-sum type of guy.
Yes, he absolutely has a point. The free ride for Europe is coming to an end
Er, the point is that Trump isn't merely complaining about funding contributions. He's actively forming a partnership with Putin to invade Europe.
Putin is currently in no position to invade anything else.
Currently.
He's heading in to his 70s and has just had his military hollowed out. He wont be in a position to do anything much but bully a few small nations in the Caucuses
Russia had transitioned to a war economy. But it is also facing a demographic cliff edge which could put an end to Putin's geopolitical ambitions if he doesnt crack on. The window will close. He's an oldish man in a hurry.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
There is considerable justification for being pro Israel. There is no justification for antisemitism. I presume people get that?
Jeremy Corbyn didn't. He conflated Luciana Berger with Likud, and he had plenty of little helpers that agreed.
The one thing in favour of May for the election, from the PM’s point of view, is that Labour might be about to tear themselves apart over the Middle East conflict.
Maybe, but the Tories are even more riven, so it is difficult to see any direct advantage to Sunak, save for Labour majorities slashed in safe seats.
Oh don’t get me wrong, perhaps the single biggest reason for May is to avoid the total shellacking the Tories are about to get in the local elections last held at the height of Johnson’s popularity.
Edit - he also got the day of the week wrong, although to be fair other Presidential nominees have done that including JFK.
We could do with some clarity. Nearly every person their age forgets names and calls people by the wrong ones, it is separate from senility. Trump has always been a bit bonkers, so in his case continued bonkers behaviour doesn't really demonstrate senility either.
They may or may not both be senile, Trump is definitely mad, neither has good name recall.
Exactly. There is much ill informed crap being spouted about dementia and Joe Biden.
My dad often confuses names and dates, struggles for the right word, loses his thread, gets flustered, gets obsessed about something quite trivial.
But he doesn't have dementia. My mum does but he doesn't. He's been tested and passed easily.
What he is is 90. Age takes its toll.
Course Biden *might* have dementia. Just that is concerning enough. No need to amp it up.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
There is considerable justification for being pro Israel. There is no justification for antisemitism. I presume people get that?
Jeremy Corbyn didn't. He conflated Luciana Berger with Likud, and he had plenty of little helpers that agreed.
The one thing in favour of May for the election, from the PM’s point of view, is that Labour might be about to tear themselves apart over the Middle East conflict.
Maybe, but the Tories are even more riven, so it is difficult to see any direct advantage to Sunak, save for Labour majorities slashed in safe seats.
Oh don’t get me wrong, perhaps the single biggest reason for May is to avoid the total shellacking the Tories are about to get in the local elections last held at the height of Johnson’s popularity.
Go in May and your typical councillor is going to be out campaigning anyway.
Go in October and the failed candidate is hardly likely to devote a few days campaigning for a party that cost them their power / hobby...
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
He’s pro Trump, and nothing else.
Incidentally it’s not up to him whether the US leaves NATO. Congress passed legislation - because of his posturing last time around - making it explicit that the President could not leave NATO without a vote in the Senate.
So encouraging Russia to attack US NATO allies would literally be giving aid and comfort to the enemy.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
It has upheld our security interests for the last 80 years.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
Trump is very simple to understand - he hasn't grasped that the world is not x a zero sum game (like checkers or happy families) where there is a single winner and one or multiple losers.
In the real world its very possible for everyone to gain from something as the end result is a bigger pie with more that can be shared round.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
It has upheld our security interests for the last 80 years.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
Tucker Carlson has been useful to Viktor Orban because he helps him hide his corruption behind the veil "culture war," as I wrote in September. Reposting because Carlson is in Moscow, doing the same favor for a much bloodier, more dangerous autocrat. https://twitter.com/anneapplebaum/status/1754180245370847416
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
It has upheld our security interests for the last 80 years.
You might as well take out US citizenship if you think that. You're totally assimilated.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
It has upheld our security interests for the last 80 years.
Suez was 68 years ago ...
Suez was a disaster made in the UK. It was not about UK security, it was about UK delusion.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
It could be like England’s haka
John Cage’s 4:33 for the US. Literally the anti-TSSB.
Ripping up such a large commitment invites scorn for Sir Keir’s claim that people can expect consistency and decisiveness from a government led by him. It leaves the pledge to achieve clean power by 2030 looking terribly dodgy while creating a huge hole at the heart of the party’s growth strategy. “In tatters,” the Tory leader is crowing. Added to which is the danger that voters who were enthused by the commitment to a green economy will now turn away in distrust and disillusion.
What this conflict has exposed is the fundamental tension at the top of the party between those who think it imperative that Labour plays it safe and those who believe being paralysed by electoral paranoia is itself dangerous. That divide will follow them into power. This sorry saga is not encouraging if it is a precedent for how Labour will handle the hard choices and gritty battles that the party will face in government.
Just a month ago, Sir Keir was declaring that there would be no resiling from his now defunct plan and defending it from Tory assault was “a fight I want to have”. He may come to regret ducking that fight by instead choosing to take flight.
Speaking personally, a tactical vote for Labour now feels like a misguided one night stand; a fleeting moment of extreme pleasure followed by a long period of regret about the consequences and the inability to say that “I didn’t vote for this”.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
He's not pro-Putin but pro-American. The people who don't get him just have a different understanding of what America is and are often stuck in a Cold War timewarp.
His version of pro-Americanism runs directly contrary to fundamental UK security and economic interests. You can put these first or want Trump to be US President.
The alternative version of America has hardly been pro-British.
It has upheld our security interests for the last 80 years.
Suez was 68 years ago ...
Suez was a disaster made in the UK. It was not about UK security, it was about UK delusion.
That's certainly an arguable position! The US did pull the plug on what was deemed at the time crucial to UK security by HMG. But did that avoid an even bigger mess? Reply on one side of the paper only. You have three hours.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
I’m really not a Trump fan, but he has a point that Europe has for too long relied on the US for its own defence, and needs to step up.
If European countries start buying more American weapons, then Trump will be all in favour of keeping NATO alive. He’s a zero-sum type of guy.
Yes, he absolutely has a point. The free ride for Europe is coming to an end
Er, the point is that Trump isn't merely complaining about funding contributions. He's actively forming a partnership with Putin to invade Europe.
Putin is currently in no position to invade anything else.
Currently.
Poland is apparently heavily investing in building up its fleet of tanks. They are not sanguine about Putin's intentions.
If the Republicans have put a stop to support for Ukraine from the US, and the rest of Europe is unable to bridge the gap, I'm not certain that Poland will just watch Ukraine slide to slow defeat against Russia.
The temptation for them to intervene, while the fighting is still far to the West of Poland's borders, will be strong.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
Trump is very simple to understand - he hasn't grasped that the world is not x a zero sum game (like checkers or happy families) where there is a single winner and one or multiple losers.
In the real world its very possible for everyone to gain from something as the end result is a bigger pie with more that can be shared round.
I'm afraid zero-sum competition is back and it's your view that is becoming outdated. You can't keep growing the collective pie in the face of climate change.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
Trump is very simple to understand - he hasn't grasped that the world is not x a zero sum game (like checkers or happy families) where there is a single winner and one or multiple losers.
In the real world its very possible for everyone to gain from something as the end result is a bigger pie with more that can be shared round.
I'm afraid zero-sum competition is back and it's your view that is becoming outdated. You can't keep growing the collective pie in the face of climate change.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
Any singer with decent range can do it.
Then why don't they? The Americans will start an event with TSSB at the drop of a hat and more often than not it is excrutiating.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
Any singer with decent range can do it.
Then why don't they? The Americans will start an event with TSSB at the drop of a hat and more often than not it is excrutiating.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
Americans have been telling Europeans not to rely on them for decades now. Why does it take someone putting it as bluntly as Trump for the message to start to sink in?
Would Trump be so pro- Putin were it not for the provision of credit via Deutsche Bank and the video kompromat taken through a two way mirror in a Moscow Hotel? Hmmm.
Trump is very simple to understand - he hasn't grasped that the world is not x a zero sum game (like checkers or happy families) where there is a single winner and one or multiple losers.
In the real world its very possible for everyone to gain from something as the end result is a bigger pie with more that can be shared round.
I'm afraid zero-sum competition is back and it's your view that is becoming outdated. You can't keep growing the collective pie in the face of climate change.
Why not ?
Because the numbers don't add up. You can't have 8 billion people all taking holidays in Tenerife or the equivalent and expect to reduce total resource consumption.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
Any singer with decent range can do it.
Who’s the singer at the Superb Owl tonight? Usually there’s a market on how long the anthem will take to sing, with loads of analysis about whether the singer is likely to be fast or slow.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
Is something afoot? I get the feeling there are elements within Labour that have decided the bland, cautious, managerial approach will get them chucked out of office after one term anyway. So therefore what's the point? Will Sir Keir be replaced with someone with vision and vim, with eye towards the future?
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
If you disregard the content, one thing Trump has going for him is that his voice hasn't really deteriorated, whereas even on a good day, Biden sounds like a shadow of himself.
I do wonder what it is going to take to open the eyes of Trump's PB fanclub. Maybe if he threatened to attack the UK? Somehow I expect a few of them would be arguing "he's got a point".
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
What tragic c*nt flagged this? Where does it get you? How does it help you? Pfffffwwwoooo!
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
Off topic, but important: It's my impression that British-style ties were very common in the US years ago, but are no longer so. There has been a shift to much more casual dress even in offices; for example, almost all the employees at the local Google wear jeans. (Jeans are, for much of the year, a bad choice for the climate here. Cotton is not suited to cool and damp weather.)
I think this is -- to some extent -- unfortunate, that the more casual dress often goes with a more casual approach to serious matters.
Is something afoot? I get the feeling there are elements within Labour that have decided the bland, cautious, managerial approach will get them chucked out of office after one term anyway. So therefore what's the point? Will Sir Keir be replaced with someone with vision and vim, with eye towards the future?
Deleted
@OldKingCole I just wanted to apologise for a rather tactless joke I made earlier today. I'm sure you didn't take offence, but I should have thought more regarding your circumstances before posting it.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
Any singer with decent range can do it.
Who’s the singer at the Superb Owl tonight? Usually there’s a market on how long the anthem will take to sing, with loads of analysis about whether the singer is likely to be fast or slow.
Contralto, and “country music icon” Reba McEntire.
Tucker Carlson's family apparently understood him when he was young. If you think one of your kids will be unable to earn an honest living, consistently, you may provide him (or her) a trust fund, so they won't starve. And that's just what his family did for him.
Yes that’s not anything remarkable BUT it is the first time I have recorded an entirely “normal” blood pressure in many years. And this is after 11 solid weeks of diet, fasting, exercise, minimal booze (by my standards), stupidly healthy food. I’ve lost over two stone and it stays lost. You’ve all endured my monomania as I’ve inflicted this on myself so Thankyou, sincerely. Sorry for calling you all “twats”
It’s been aided by the fact Cambodian food is madly healthy and delicious anyway. Seafood, noodles, greens, fruit
Nonetheless. A notable BP reading
I wish all the best to other PB dieters and health seekers
From many previous threads: I hope you will excuse me for reminding some of you of the obvious: Putin can have peace any time he wants by pulling his troops out of Ukraine, and asking for mediation.
Hamas can have peace any time they want by surrendering. As they would, if they cared about the Gazans.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
What tragic c*nt flagged this? Where does it get you? How does it help you? Pfffffwwwoooo!
Probably just a fat finger. Unless of course Joe Biden subscribes to PB. If he does you and @Williamglenn can expect a shed load of flags.
'Donald Trump said on Saturday that as president, he warned Nato allies that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent” as he ramped up his attacks on foreign aid and longstanding international alliances.'
Trump being re-elected is the end of NATO. Why would anyone want to be reliant on this man?
You could argue, of course, that this is not necessarily a bad thing and that NATO is well past its sell by date. But it would be the end.
I’m really not a Trump fan, but he has a point that Europe has for too long relied on the US for its own defence, and needs to step up.
If European countries start buying more American weapons, then Trump will be all in favour of keeping NATO alive. He’s a zero-sum type of guy.
Yes, he absolutely has a point. The free ride for Europe is coming to an end
Er, the point is that Trump isn't merely complaining about funding contributions. He's actively forming a partnership with Putin to invade Europe.
Putin is currently in no position to invade anything else.
Currently.
Poland is apparently heavily investing in building up its fleet of tanks. They are not sanguine about Putin's intentions.
If the Republicans have put a stop to support for Ukraine from the US, and the rest of Europe is unable to bridge the gap, I'm not certain that Poland will just watch Ukraine slide to slow defeat against Russia.
The temptation for them to intervene, while the fighting is still far to the West of Poland's borders, will be strong.
Poland could invade Belarus claiming the same justifications that Russia has used to invade Ukraine.
The only difference is that Poland would have rather more validity to use them.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
It's not fun watching a mean-spirited narcissist bully and manipulate people. I hate it. There is just a tiny tiny part of me that's entertained as well as horrified but this is not an aspect of my brain chemistry I wish to encourage.
It'll be the same with you, I'm sure. The better part of you wants him gone, the worst part laps him up and wants him to win in November. For some reason it's that worst part which seems to animate a lot of your posts.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
What tragic c*nt flagged this? Where does it get you? How does it help you? Pfffffwwwoooo!
It was probably me. I'm forever accidentally hitting the flag button with my thumb when scrolling PB on my phone. Usually I notice and unflag again, but maybe I missed one. Sorry if so!
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
It could be like England’s haka
Waterloo Sunset is lovely; a moving evocation of home, and surprisingly forgiving to the amateur singer. It is specifically a London song rather than an England song. AIRI, it was Ray Davies's attempt to write a Penny Lane that meant something personal to him. I think it's better, personally.
I'm trying to think of something which is a moving evocation of home, but which applies to somewhere in L'Angleterre Profonde rather than London (or Liverpool). Best I have managed so far is Half Man Half Biscuit's "Oblong of Dreams", an uncharacteristically sincere declaration of love for the Wirral.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
What tragic c*nt flagged this? Where does it get you? How does it help you? Pfffffwwwoooo!
Probably just a fat finger. Unless of course Joe Biden subscribes to PB. If he does you and @Williamglenn can expect a shed load of flags.
I can’t swear it wasn’t me - I’m watching a drama series at the same time.
Some commenters apparently think of the NYT as monolithic, instead of being a large organization with many viewpoints. It is true that there has been some effort to force conformity recently, which is why they lost Bari Weiss.
But there are still people like Bret Stephens and Anemona Hartocollis there.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
It's not fun watching a mean-spirited narcissist bully and manipulate people. I hate it. There is just a tiny tiny part of me that's entertained as well as horrified but this is not an aspect of my brain chemistry I wish to encourage.
It'll be the same with you, I'm sure. The better part of you wants him gone, the worst part laps him up and wants him to win in November. For some reason it's that worst part which seems to animate a lot of your posts.
I have a spirit of devilry to be sure
I do genuinely want Trump to lose… but he is funny. Genuinely funny. Worse, he seems to feed off the negative embarrassed energy of his enemies, the more they flail the more animated he becomes
It’s quite strange
But. Sober hat on. Mature face adopted. The New York Times is right. Its time to get rid of Biden - however it happens, just do it it - and install anyone vaguely sane with a good VP choice
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
I'm glad! There's a fair bit of the Newcastle Kingsmen and similar troopa on youtube, and I'm always pleased when they crop up. This is what English folk dance is, and should be. Fun. Too often the image is that of a slightly ridiculous Two Ronnies sketch, and we don't really give it the respect we should.
Is something afoot? I get the feeling there are elements within Labour that have decided the bland, cautious, managerial approach will get them chucked out of office after one term anyway. So therefore what's the point? Will Sir Keir be replaced with someone with vision and vim, with eye towards the future?
Deleted
@OldKingCole I just wanted to apologise for a rather tactless joke I made earlier today. I'm sure you didn't take offence, but I should have thought more regarding your circumstances before posting it.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
It could be like England’s haka
Waterloo Sunset is lovely; a moving evocation of home, and surprisingly forgiving to the amateur singer. It is specifically a London song rather than an England song. AIRI, it was Ray Davies's attempt to write a Penny Lane that meant something personal to him. I think it's better, personally.
I'm trying to think of something which is a moving evocation of home, but which applies to somewhere in L'Angleterre Profonde rather than London (or Liverpool). Best I have managed so far is Half Man Half Biscuit's "Oblong of Dreams", an uncharacteristically sincere declaration of love for the Wirral.
I still like Billy Connolley's suggestion that the anthem shold be the Archer's theme. Of course the problem is there are no words.
Waterloo Sunset is sublime. All he more so for referencing Terry and Julie.
Nice clear post with video illustrations attached below.
Since the media refuses to report on it, let me share what happens at a typical Trump speech:
1. He comes out to the playing of the “January 6 Anthem” song which he recorded with some of the most dangerous J6 rioters in jail.
2. He brags how his song with the J6 rioters gets more downloads than Taylor Swift (it does not)
3. He spends a few minutes talking about passing cognitive exams, and how the audience would not pass the exam, but because he is really smart (he is not) he is able to ace the exam.
4. He praises Viktor Orban, the leader of Hungary, who Trump says is the most respected leader in Europe (he is not).
5. He praises President Xi and says he is very strong and rules over 1 billion people with an iron fist and Hollywood couldn’t find an actor as tough as President Xi.
6. He praises Putin and says people say it’s a bad thing he gets along with Putin but he thinks it’s a good thing.
7. He makes weird noises reenacting lifting weights with a trans woman and he says “mommy I can’t do it. Mommy. Ughhh, uhh, mommy help me.”
8. He says he doesn’t like seeing President Biden at the beach and says he has a better body than Biden (he does not)
9. He talks about his hatred of windmills and his hatred of electric cars. He says he would rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks however.
10. He praises the J6 insurrectionists and calls them hostages.
11. He whines about his court cases, attacks prosecutors, judges, and witnesses, and then praises “the great Alphonse Capone” and brags he was indicted more than Capone.
12. He quotes Hitler and says immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.
13. He says he wants to be a dictator on day 1.
14. He plays QAnon music, audience members often make QAnon sign with their hands, and he talks about how America is a failing nation.
Oh god. This is what I was afraid of. Pivoting to the centre to win over independents.
Problem for Biden is that this sounds infinitely more amusing than 1 hour watching a tragic old Democrat cadaver pretend he’s not dead
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
It's not fun watching a mean-spirited narcissist bully and manipulate people. I hate it. There is just a tiny tiny part of me that's entertained as well as horrified but this is not an aspect of my brain chemistry I wish to encourage.
It'll be the same with you, I'm sure. The better part of you wants him gone, the worst part laps him up and wants him to win in November. For some reason it's that worst part which seems to animate a lot of your posts.
I have a spirit of devilry to be sure
I do genuinely want Trump to lose… but he is funny. Genuinely funny. Worse, he seems to feed off the negative embarrassed energy of his enemies, the more they flail the more animated he becomes
It’s quite strange
But. Sober hat on. Mature face adopted. The New York Times is right. Its time to get rid of Biden - however it happens, just do it it - and install anyone vaguely sane with a good VP choice
Biden is going to lose to Trump, as things stand
Yep. Been saying it for months. Trouble is now I think it is too late.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
That is only in your mind
Well it sure ain’t Flower of Scotland
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
It could be like England’s haka
Waterloo Sunset is lovely; a moving evocation of home, and surprisingly forgiving to the amateur singer. It is specifically a London song rather than an England song. AIRI, it was Ray Davies's attempt to write a Penny Lane that meant something personal to him. I think it's better, personally.
I'm trying to think of something which is a moving evocation of home, but which applies to somewhere in L'Angleterre Profonde rather than London (or Liverpool). Best I have managed so far is Half Man Half Biscuit's "Oblong of Dreams", an uncharacteristically sincere declaration of love for the Wirral.
I still like Billy Connolley's suggestion that the anthem shold be the Archer's theme. Of course the problem is there are no words.
Waterloo Sunset is sublime. All he more so for referencing Terry and Julie.
Yes I think we should all get over the london reference. It’s the English. It’s Terry and Julie. They are in paradise. And it’s a marvellous, uplifting song
It was actually @kinabalu who suggested it as the new crowd anthem for Twickers. The RFU should adopt it forthwith
Gavin Newsom's main problem: "A new statewide poll found 70% of respondents expressed high levels of happiness with living in California and applaud the state for its diversity. But 4 in 10 Californians are considering moving out of state, with the majority saying it’s too expensive to live there.
Obviously, Newsom is not wholly responsible for that exodus, nor even the leftists in California. But they do share some of the blame for the damage done to the state, while they have been running things. And it isn't as if the state lacks resources.
Italy must have the world’s worst national anthem as a proportion of “possible national songs they could have chosen”
It's very marchy tin-pot Dictator stuff. But the dirge that is GSTK takes some beating in the sh!te stakes.
GSTK is fine. Not the best. But it’s really simple, highly memorable, nicely short, and you can really belt it out
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
I like the Star Spangled Banner. Suits my vocal range.
I have a soft spot for the Star Spangled Banner because I worked out how to play it on the tin whistle (though it's actually a pain in the arse on that instrument).
Star Spangled Banner was ruined for me when someone pointed out the break to We Wish You A Merry Christmas near the end and now I can't not hear it. Also, it is hard for even professional singers.
Any singer with decent range can do it.
Who’s the singer at the Superb Owl tonight? Usually there’s a market on how long the anthem will take to sing, with loads of analysis about whether the singer is likely to be fast or slow.
Contralto, and “country music icon” Reba McEntire.
The way it is being hyped, I thought that Taylor Swift was playing quarterback, singing the anthem, and doing the half time gig.
Comments
And completely right about architecture
https://x.com/bennyjohnson/status/1756535236207222855?s=20
@WMichaelHaley
@realDonaldTrump @GOP @CNN @FoxNews @wsjournal @USATODAY @nytimes @Applicant
Not getting you there. Starmer is arguing against an offensive in Rafah. That would therefore become Labour policy. Perhaps he thinks now is the moment for a ceasefire?
Cameron has also expressed concerns.
Contrast La Marseillaise which is a fabulous tune but really hard to sing esp in chorus
We have often discussed this on PB. We usually conclude the Russians and the Welsh have the best anthems
https://www1.politicalbetting.com/index.php/archives/2023/01/29/the-intermarium/
The barrel-chested Starmer. Fights like a badger.
The sums add up - they afford the weapons.
It does make you wonder about the balance of power in Eastern Europe, doesn’t it?
At least GSTK is so dreary it doesn't inspire nationalism.
Austria - a dagger at the heart of Europe
Slovenia - the soft underbelly (well armpit anyway)
Suits my vocal range.
My dad often confuses names and dates, struggles for the right word, loses his thread, gets flustered, gets obsessed about something quite trivial.
But he doesn't have dementia. My mum does but he doesn't. He's been tested and passed easily.
What he is is 90. Age takes its toll.
Course Biden *might* have dementia. Just that is concerning enough. No need to amp it up.
https://www.thesouthafrican.com/lifestyle/celeb-news/prince-andrew-daughter-eugenie-hand-grope-jeffrey-epstein-queen-elizabeth-balmoral-watch-12-september-2022/
Go in October and the failed candidate is hardly likely to devote a few days campaigning for a party that cost them their power / hobby...
Incidentally it’s not up to him whether the US leaves NATO.
Congress passed legislation - because of his posturing last time around - making it explicit that the President could not leave NATO without a vote in the Senate.
So encouraging Russia to attack US NATO allies would literally be giving aid and comfort to the enemy.
In the real world its very possible for everyone to gain from something as the end result is a bigger pie with more that can be shared round.
I dunno why countries insist on solemn boring turgid anthems
Waltzing Matilda is magnificent and miles better than ‘advance Australia fair’, gawd elp us
Molly malone is better than Ireland Ireland or whatever the fuck they sing
Loch Lomond thingy. Much better than flowers of Scotland
Waterloo sunset! Better than GSTK. Or boho rhapsody for the full anthemic 7 minutes where opposing teams will be forced to watch us do air guitar to the metal guitar bit, and the long closing croon woowooowooo
It could be like England’s haka
https://twitter.com/anneapplebaum/status/1754180245370847416
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZnBNuqqz5g
It always makes me slightly cry
Literally the anti-TSSB.
Ripping up such a large commitment invites scorn for Sir Keir’s claim that people can expect consistency and decisiveness from a government led by him. It leaves the pledge to achieve clean power by 2030 looking terribly dodgy while creating a huge hole at the heart of the party’s growth strategy. “In tatters,” the Tory leader is crowing. Added to which is the danger that voters who were enthused by the commitment to a green economy will now turn away in distrust and disillusion.
What this conflict has exposed is the fundamental tension at the top of the party between those who think it imperative that Labour plays it safe and those who believe being paralysed by electoral paranoia is itself dangerous. That divide will follow them into power. This sorry saga is not encouraging if it is a precedent for how Labour will handle the hard choices and gritty battles that the party will face in government.
Just a month ago, Sir Keir was declaring that there would be no resiling from his now defunct plan and defending it from Tory assault was “a fight I want to have”. He may come to regret ducking that fight by instead choosing to take flight.
Speaking personally, a tactical vote for Labour now feels like a misguided one night stand; a fleeting moment of extreme pleasure followed by a long period of regret about the consequences and the inability to say that “I didn’t vote for this”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESViOhqRdlE
The temptation for them to intervene, while the fighting is still far to the West of Poland's borders, will be strong.
https://youtu.be/EOtnZEsbQew?si=-agiSFW1NFkV_nre
This occurred to me earlier. Trump is fun. You can kind of like him in an ‘ironic’ way as well. But that may translate into actual votes
My hunch was that Biden would win a rematch with Trump because, economy. I am now much less certain, you can call it dementia or senility or whatever, does it matter? He obviously has it and it is deeply offputting and no one wants to watch it for another 4 years, it’s like being in a room with your decomposing Irish nan
I think this is -- to some extent -- unfortunate, that the more casual dress often goes with a more casual approach to serious matters.
Reminds me of this: https://youtu.be/EOtnZEsbQew?si=-agiSFW1NFkV_nre
I have just recorded a blood pressure of 119/71
Yes that’s not anything remarkable BUT it is the first time I have recorded an entirely “normal” blood pressure in many years. And this is after 11 solid weeks of diet, fasting, exercise, minimal booze (by my standards), stupidly healthy food. I’ve lost over two stone and it stays lost. You’ve all endured my monomania as I’ve inflicted this on myself so Thankyou, sincerely. Sorry for calling you all “twats”
It’s been aided by the fact Cambodian food is madly healthy and delicious anyway. Seafood, noodles, greens, fruit
Nonetheless. A notable BP reading
I wish all the best to other PB dieters and health seekers
Hamas can have peace any time they want by surrendering. As they would, if they cared about the Gazans.
The only difference is that Poland would have rather more validity to use them.
It'll be the same with you, I'm sure. The better part of you wants him gone, the worst part laps him up and wants him to win in November. For some reason it's that worst part which seems to animate a lot of your posts.
It is specifically a London song rather than an England song. AIRI, it was Ray Davies's attempt to write a Penny Lane that meant something personal to him. I think it's better, personally.
I'm trying to think of something which is a moving evocation of home, but which applies to somewhere in L'Angleterre Profonde rather than London (or Liverpool). Best I have managed so far is Half Man Half Biscuit's "Oblong of Dreams", an uncharacteristically sincere declaration of love for the Wirral.
But there are still people like Bret Stephens and Anemona Hartocollis there.
I do genuinely want Trump to lose… but he is funny. Genuinely funny. Worse, he seems to feed off the negative embarrassed energy of his enemies, the more they flail the more animated he becomes
It’s quite strange
But. Sober hat on. Mature face adopted. The New York Times is right. Its time to get rid of Biden - however it happens, just do it it - and install anyone vaguely sane with a good VP choice
Biden is going to lose to Trump, as things stand
This is what English folk dance is, and should be. Fun. Too often the image is that of a slightly ridiculous Two Ronnies sketch, and we don't really give it the respect we should.
This has that added brilliant 'Waynes World' headbanging moment.
Waterloo Sunset is sublime. All he more so for referencing Terry and Julie.
It was actually @kinabalu who suggested it as the new crowd anthem for Twickers. The RFU should adopt it forthwith
California has had three consecutive years of population declines, according to U.S. Census data."
source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/06/28/california-population-decline-costs-of-living-state/70363036007/
Obviously, Newsom is not wholly responsible for that exodus, nor even the leftists in California. But they do share some of the blame for the damage done to the state, while they have been running things. And it isn't as if the state lacks resources.
(Those interested in details may want to read Shellenberger's "San Fransicko".
https://www.harpercollins.com/products/san-fransicko-michael-shellenberger )