From sport to shopping: two faces of jubilation

The Boy-child with a soccer trophy he won, aged 7. Image: Su Leslie, 2004.

Early soccer victory. The boy-child with Player of the Year trophy. Image: Su Leslie, 2005.

The boy-child has always worn his emotions near the surface. From jubilation to despair, his face seldom conceals his feelings. Capable of very dark moods, moments of happiness are always a pleasure to witness.

Canny shopper. The boy-child was jubilant to find a coveted Louis Vuitton scarf (genuine of course -- yeah, right) at Brick Lane Market, London. Image: Su Leslie, 2015

Canny shopper. The boy-child was jubilant to find a coveted Louis Vitton scarf (genuine of course?) at Brick Lane Market, London. Image: Su Leslie, 2015

NZMM2016_jpgThis post was written for the Daily Post Photo Challenge. This week the theme is jubilant. Trying to capture jubilation in music, two songs came to mind.

Bliss by Th’ Dudes (1980) was written about the drunk audiences the band found itself playing to. Ironically, it has become something of a celebration of drinking culture.

She’s a Mod was was originally recorded by Christchurch band Ray Columbus and the Invaders in 1964, and again in 2009 by The Mint Chicks to celebrate The Invaders induction into the NZ Music Hall of Fame.

NB: I’ve chosen The Mint Chicks’ version here because it’s a fun homage to the original and because Mike Logie, the bass player, was a mentor to my son while he was playing in bands. I have huge respect for Mike’s talent and commitment to encouraging young musicians.