Callyshang... Most certainly not a commotion :)

Callyshang

(Miriam, Kirsten and Liam)

As this site is about photography and there has been a distinct lack of updates over the past few months (Apologies for that) I decided it was time to set myself a project or two. One idea that I got was to do a profile of one of the bands that my girlfriend Miriam Brett plays in. Having never done a profile of anything before I didn’t and still don’t have a clue where to begin.

Over a period of time I hope to get a good selection of photos of this group; Band practice, Socialising and ultimately anything leading up to the gig and of course photos from the sessions.

(Liam Smith)

I feel it is appropriate to give a brief introduction of this group before I continue.
The band are called Callyshang and consist of 6 musicians under the age of 18 and having had the pleasure of being at one of their practices I can only feel this band may go a long way in a very short space of time.

The band consists of:
Miriam Brett (Young Fiddler of the Year 2007)
Kirsten Henry (Fiddle )
Jaqueline Jamieson (Fiddle, Saxaphone)
Garry Smith (Bass, PA, Guitar)
Liam Smith (Guitar, Mandolin)
Bobby Sutherland (Percussion and Piano)

(Gary and Miriam)

Drawing their inspiration from iconic folk groups such as Bongshang, Fiddlers Bid, Filska, Shooglenifty and Terrafolk, they combine traditional folk music and modern contemporary sounds into a transient blend that is much needed in todays folk scene.

Although the members are young and the group in its infancy they are a joy to listen to and it’s not just their technical process that stands out, it’s their love for the music that they play and not only can it be heard, it can be felt, resonating from the heart.

So keep an eye or should that be thy ears open for this group for they sure as hell put on a good performance!

(Kirsten Henry)

A new era for the Shetland Islands

As with all industries that boom there will inevitably be a decline later on. Over the past few years Shetland has seen a dramatic decline in its fishing industry brought upon by EU restrictions, decline in fish stocks and competition from foreign boats. Although this has had an affect on Shetland there is a light at the end of tunnel and a bright one at that.

Yesterday (Tuesday 17th) saw the arrival of the largest structure ever to be brought ashore into Lerwick. The structure is the MSF (module support frame) for the platform TCP2 (Treatment & Compression Platform). In other words it's a great big piece off an oil rig.

The barge and structure dwarf the decommissioning pad

The 8800 tonne structure was brought ashore by the S6000- a transport barge owned by Saipem and is the largest vessel ever to berth at Lerwick.
It is hoped that over the following three years that a total of 16000 tonnes of material will be brought ashore and decommissioned.
Looking toward town the structure provides a Contrasting frame for the Town Hall

A great amount of money has been invested to ensure that Shetland could secure part of the massive contract of decommissioning the Frigg Gas field with the aim of creating a new industry for Shetland and securing the future of the Isles.

Test Gallery now online

Good evening. This is my first 'official' post. I suppose it is more of a bulletin to inform you that my test gallery is now online. It can be viewed Here
Bear in mind it is my first attempt at it and it needs much tweaking. I hope you enjoy them. Any comments are appreciated.

Welcome.

Howdy folks! Welcome to my new blog and one that I hope to keep updated.
Over time I shall upload images and posts as appropriate- Somewhat like a daily photoblog with news on current events etc. Until then enjoy the web.