FULL OF B&S

Bubble & Squeak World Cup Sweepstake - Teams Announced!

2010-06-03T17:26:00.004+01:00

The quadrannual/quadrennial/fourth-yearly B&S World Cup sweepstake was undertaken with all due pomp and seriousness this morning, with names being drawn out of a suitable receptacle (a melanine cereal bowl, for minutiae hounds) and announced ceremoniously.

Most amusingly, non-Brit Mark Hallinger drew Eng-er-land, while a certain Mr Hilton basked smugly in the warmth of drawing the hot favourites, Spain.

Let the games begin!

Account Manager Required

2010-05-11T13:51:00.001+01:00

Bubble & Squeak is looking for an ambitious and organised Account Manager. Based in Soho, with contact offices in LA and APAC, our clients range from TV and film equipment suppliers to commercials production companies. We also offer services including events organisation, newsletter production and marketing activities.

The ideal candidate will be confident, passionate and extremely proactive and hard-working. They will possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, a keen eye for detail, and multi-tasking will be second nature. While able to work on their own initiative, they must also be a team player and willing to pitch in wherever help is needed.

They will have a keen interest in and be a regular reader/viewer/user of all types of media, including social media. They will possess the confidence to deal with people at all levels, and the ability to contribute actively to new business pitches. Above all they will bring energy and enthusiasm to their work.

The scope of work is broad; the candidate needs a good understanding of the PR industry and its various tools. Experience of the media and broadcast industries would be an advantage. A good working knowledge of Microsoft Office programmes is essential, as is English as a first language. The role also involves a small amount of international travel.

If you are interested please send a CV to Sadie Groom, Managing Director at sadie@bubblesqueak.co.uk

THE ASH

2010-04-19T10:24:00.003+01:00

So as a number of our bubbles and our clients remain across the pind we wait to hear more on Gordon Brown's announcement that flights are going from the USA to Spain which means we can get our peeps back. In the meantime please be assured that it's business as usual at Bubble & Squeak HQ. If you have any queries, please call the office on 0207 2874655.

Wendy is on her way back and if you need to call her from the UK, please do so after 3pm UK time on my mobile 07912 300231.

Who'd have thought the run up to a general election would cause such eruptions!

The Bubbles at NAB

2010-04-12T10:18:00.002+01:00

So today sees the start of NAB 2010 and the Bubbles are in Vegas. Today sees the return of the annual Bubble & Squeak 'Talk Nerdy To Me' press conference where all of B&S's clients will be talking about their show news. Kick off is at 11am in room N242, LVCC (North Hall Level 2, up the escalators near the press office)

All the big news without ‘marketing fluff’ from FIVE companies, from production to broadcast technology and playout in ONE HOUR

Any press wanting to attend or make a last minute booking for a one to one please email wendy@bubblesqueak.co.uk or paul@bubblesqueak.co.uk to check availability

Clients include:

Cintel SL2027
Autoscript C6025
Signiant SL2027
Oasys N6812
MGt - SU9506R ( Broadband lifestyle Pavillion )

NEP Visions joins The Bubbles

2010-03-11T15:11:00.002Z

We are delighted to announce that Bubble & Squeak now represents NEP Visions, the largest independent Outside Broadcast facilities company in the UK. With projects such as the Champions League, Wimbledon, FIVE cricket and T in the Park on Visions' books, we anticipate being very popular.... Welcome to the Bubbles family, Visions!

Dizzee and Florence at the Music Producers Guild Awards 2010

2010-03-10T12:29:00.008Z

So with all the excitement going on at Bubble & Squeak, with the addition of Baby Bubble, we've not had a chance to reflect on the Music Producers Guild Awards (MPG) 2010, which took place on February 11th 2010 at Cafe de Paris - the week before the BRITS.

Paul Epworth picked up the MPG Producer of the Year award and was also also awarded a BRIT. He was responsible for Florence and The Machine's Rabbit Heart (Raise it Up), Howl and Cosmic Love, as well as amazing work on The Big Pink, Friendly Fires and Jack Penate's albums. Florence couldn't resist coming along to our event to present the award to Paul, despite landing back in the UK from OZ, only that morning.

Listen to Dave Robinson from PSNE's interview with Paul Epworth here:

http://prosoundnewseurope.com/index.phpoption=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=29&Itemid=85

The fun didn't stop there, with UK Album of the Year going to Dizzee Rascal's Tongue N Cheek and with Florence and Dizzee hanging out back stage in anticipation of presenting to their respective producers we can't help but feel responsible for their BRIT collaboration the week later..

Muse picked up UK Single for 'Uprising'and the boys came by having just returned from Asia

It was an amazing night, with the Outstanding Contribution to Music being presented to Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, champion of Bob Marley and U2. In his review of the BRIT's Tim de Lisle from The Guardian described Chris Blackwell's as a 'True Giant and much deserving of his MPG Award, leaving something to the imagination when the BRITS's awarded of the same name was presented to Robbie Williams !

For more details of the night visit www.mpgawards.co.uk

Baby Groom!

2010-02-25T10:15:00.004Z

Everyone, Elliot. Elliot, this is the internet.

Name: Elliot John Groom
D.O.B: 24th February 2010
T.O.B: 10:55pm
Weight: 5lbs 7oz

Congratulations Michael and Sadie!
Love and best wishes, The Bubbles xxx

. BE Amazing . BE Wonderful . BE 2010 .

2010-02-19T17:41:00.000Z

Yes, BE 2010. Wait, what I mean is B V E. But, just like in the warped catchphrasic minds of Lucas and Walliams my computer says no. It thinks it’s a mistake. It thinks I want to write BE and that ‘V’ is a slip of the finger. Well it’s not and I don’t. It’s all down to Microsoft’s ignorance of this week’s BVE - Broadcast Video Expo. After exceeding all expectations by gaining both record-breaking numbers on pre registration and overall daily attendances it was also highly acclaimed from delegate and exhibitor alike.
It was also a fantastic opportunity for B&S, who were responsible for running the official press office, to catch up with many of our friends and colleagues, most of whom were covering the show for numerous national and European publications.
In addition, many congratulations to all those who exhibited, especially the whole Pro Motion Hire team on their first exhibiting outing!
BE End.

THE MPG AWARDS 2010 - Music awards for the talent, not the divas.

2010-02-12T16:58:00.002Z

A flame-haired Florence (and her machine, I’m imagining?!) flew in especially to congratulate Best Producer Paul Epworth at last night’s MPG Awards. Organised by those Bubbles attuned to pulling off the very finest of media events; Sadie, Natalie and Linzi worked with the Music Producers Guild to create a night of celebration and stargazing at Cafe de Paris. Dizzee Rascal also attended the evening to celebrate the winning album of the year and his first album chart number one - Tongue ‘n Cheek, which was awarded to the producer Cage AKA Nick. Congratulations to all.

Bubble Towers 2.0 - A New Bubble Abode

2010-01-27T12:41:00.000Z

A new year, a new decade and a new home for the bubbles. Despite our beloved neighbours on Berwick Street, including Tina and the Scrubs (a seventies tribute band, or something to do with audio) and ‘the girls downstairs’, we had simply outgrown our little office and alas we had to move. But not too far! We can now be found on Dean Street, number 8, or for those whose geographical knowledge is based around lunches and drinks (who moi?!), next door to the finest pizza and jazz combination in W1 and overlooking the infamous media boozer, The Nelly Dean.
And, although you might want to cut and paste this into your rolodex - Bubble & Squeak 8 Dean Street London W1D 3RL - our numbers have all stayed the same, the main one being 0207 287 4655.

Mince Pies and Scented Candles!

2009-12-23T11:30:00.005Z

It's the final day in the Bubble's 2009! We've all exchanged gifts, had mince pies for breakfast and all to the sound of Band Aid, Mariah and Shakin' thanks to this small but perfectly formed spotify playlist.
http://open.spotify.com/user/dropitlikeitshot/playlist/5Vv9WETfWvqYzEC65OzPIN

Have A Merry Christmas!

Two Months. Three Queries. No Excuse...

2009-10-24T10:45:00.004+01:00

So, it's now been exactly two full months since a bubbles' last blog. There's no real excuse, it only takes mere moments to blog something, especially if you create some lame thread like 'Quote of the Week' to fall back on. But I must apologies, at least to the three people who enquired where said thread had disappeared to who I'm suspecting probably have some bizarre contractual clause whereby they must try to log in to our blog at least once a month, either that or they just fell in to the habit of clicking on the link at the bottom of one of the multiple emails that fly out of bubbleville each day.

Anyway, if I was to be in the mood to make excuses I would blame the hectic months in run up to when the team flies off to attend broadcast technology's European showcase - IBC. Here, we dash around making as much wonderful noise about our clients as possible, whether that be at one of the many many interviews, our 'talk nerdy' press conference or at the IBC beach bar... even if Wendy claims not to know where it is!

Then shortly after touching down in LDN it was The Conch Awards. The evening, which we lovingly organise for UK Screen, highlights the great and greater in sound post production. This year it was held at Kings Place so it's a wonder how none of the celebrations made it to the front pages of the Guardian which is housed in the same building.

Both were deemed successful with lots of good feedback and plenty of smile and although it was absolutely exhausting we all settled back in to our Berwick Street abode with a sense of achievement. Shortly after I went on holiday and did nothing in the sunshine.

That’s it for excuses. I'm back now. Back in the office and back on the blog. I sincerely apologise to all three of you.

More information on IBC can be found here:
www.ibc.org
More information on The Conch Award winners can be found here:
www.ukscreenassociation.co.uk/conch
More information on my holiday can be found here:
www.butlins.com/resorts/bognor

Quote of the Week: Soho's IT Geekiest Dangled By Ankles From Third Floor Window

2009-08-24T12:26:00.006+01:00

"You murdered my laptop!"

Sadie Groom, reacts to finding out that the IT geek's option two, after turn off and back on again, was to dismantle her laptop to the point of no return.

Quote of the Week: Zoom!

2009-08-17T09:42:00.003+01:00

"Anything is possible."

Usain Bolt, the Jamaican sprinter on setting a new 100m WR of 9.58 in Berlin yesterday.

Bubbles Blow Out

2009-08-14T09:48:00.002+01:00

Then Mrs Beeton. Now Sadie Groom.

Ever wondered how to make a double baked cheese soufflé whilst drinking a whole bottle of plonk..? No, neither had I. But once you do I firmly believe there is no going back!
Yesterday saw the summer Bubble blow out pre-IBC day out. Those in attendance, including soufflé queen Wendy, got to learn the tricks of the culinary trade at one of the capital's finest catering schools. Our very own Delia for the day (who would’ve never been heard shouting ‘let’s be ‘aving you!’) was immaculately turned out with pink chef whites and matching lipstick and nails. Despite the lovelier than lovely appearance woe betide anyone not coring apples correctly or greasing their ramekins in accordance with her instructions. It was a fantastic experience whereby we helped create a three course lunch including the aforementioned soufflé, a Moroccan main of chicken and butternut squash and to finish a tarte tatin – which was as impressive in the build up as it was on the taste buds!
We chopped, caramalised, whisked, drunk and laughed our way through the afternoon and then flaked out in the sunshine as we looked over London from Muswell Hill. A fantastic day – done.

Murray Mint... a bit Worthers' unOriginal!

2009-07-03T11:57:00.005+01:00

Andy's confidence is down to bullying midgets on the practice courts.

He is dull though isn’t he. Andy Murray. Our best shot at a Wimbledon Single's Champion since 1936 when Fred Perry won. Fred Perry is the guy who was the inspiration for clothing now paraded up and down council estates under hoodies. Which kid nowadays would feel pimped wearing a Murray polo shirt?!

Andy's also a little bit lame thanks to lackluster 'Tiger' Tim Henman who’s evidentially schooled him in the subdued ‘come on’ with obligatory fist clench – bore off! He’s increased his confidence, attacks the ball more and is as fit as a butcher’s dog but still no passion! I want a brutal, exposed and enthused player… a ‘you can return my serve but you’ll never take my freedom!’ type affair. So in that respect, I hope the boring Scot loses!

Ok, I'm being a little unfair. There is a little bit of me which does hope he wins because I’d like to see what happens to the general population… every year the forgotten courts and bedraggled nets which the local councils barely maintain for the sole purpose of two weeks terrible tennis in the summer actually come alive! But what would happen if he won, would it reach into a third week – shock horror. The Daily Mail would probably blame swine flu. Meanwhile sales of Iron Bru take off making the girder industry boom and Rab C Nesbitt, the notable girder maker, the world's richest man in a string vest. So come on Andy, do it, beat them all, it'll be well funny! Not that you’d appreciate funny, you’re too busy being boring.

Quote of the Week: The Man. The Scandal. The Legend. The Moonwalk... and that Glove.

2009-06-29T10:53:00.005+01:00

Jacko had a glove for all occasions.

"Michael Jackson Dies"

BBC News 24, 23:44 - 24.06.09 If one more of my friends posts 'RIP MJ' on Facebook I'm likely to Scream. Excuse the pun.

Quote of the Week: Political Mess.

2009-06-15T10:36:00.000+01:00

“Minister resigns over Brown smears”

The London Evening Standard, produces a headline Vaughany would've bigged up in the biggest way on the Big Breakfast. Both humiliating and informative all at the same time.

Happy Tube Day

2009-06-10T13:00:00.000+01:00

Or put another way, UnHappy Commuter Day. I left my house, usual time. I arrived at work, late. Very late. Infact so late, I nearly met the hoards of people leaving the office to pick up their chicken sandwiches, prêt salads and sushi for lunch.

I had to get three buses, an over ground train and then walk in the rain. I even had the misfortune to be part of a rather distressing and comedic paving slab incident, whereby a shoddy paving job and the lingering rain water under the slab managed to cover both my highly rain adverse footwear, All Star Converse, and splash my new smarter than smart trousers. It felt too hilariously clichéd a moment to be true but alas it was. My Converse, now a dirty mottled grey colour with spots of the original white canvas are going to have to have a bath and even then I’m not liking their chances. Festival footwear, potentially.

Anyway, I hope this makes you feel in some way better about the whole morning, unceremoniously NOT sponsored by Transport For London. I inturn will rejoice in the fact things could’ve been worse. Like in the office’s newest Natalie’s case, the poor thing. Because I could’ve got on the wrong train and ended up in Biggleswade. Yes, Biggleswade. Wherever that is?!

Good luck at 6pm everyone.

Quote of the Week: A*

2009-06-08T16:35:00.008+01:00

"You're Hired"

Sir Alan, The Appretice BBC1. So it was between Kate and Yasmina. Yasmina and Kate. Yasmina was the one who had sandlewood issues - winner. Kate was the fit one, until she went with Phillip - loser. Another great series finished for another year, and all posted by Evolutions.

The Wireless Concerns

2009-06-02T14:28:00.015+01:00

So, it’s that time in the day when Ken Bruce on BBC Radio 2, which is a main stay on the little pink DAB radio in the office, decides to talk drivvle to some local ‘character’ who usually happens to live in Norfolk or Bristol.
I don’t really mind what’s on the radio (although the dial mysteriously slides to 6music sometimes) but he does get on my nerves a bit, especially when he gets all chummy with Tony the window cleaner or George the driving instructor. I know he’s a radio legend and all, and maybe I’m simply being contrary for contrary’s sake but give it a rest Bruce.
Please don’t thank anyone else for their rubbish real life stories which verge on the depressing in that wise old way that you do. Just play some music… personally I like it best when you play The Carpenters.

Anyway, one day Mr Ken Bruce and radio’s other presenters, yes even Jamie and Harriet, will just be a distant memory. We will simply stream music from one of the many internet musiteers, freeing us from the financial constraints in exchange for selling our data to the advertisers of Viagra, porn and Tesco.

So now, on my computer’s desktop I have multiple applications for various online music catalogues like Last fm, Spotify and We7. I wouldn’t mind but in fear of missing out on the next big application - the facebook of UK social networking or the twitter of micro-blogging - I’m literally nowhere with any of them. They’re all in a complete state of disarray. I can’t commit to just one and therefore compared to my iTunes account, in which some songs have even been rated depending on it’s humability, evoking of a wonderfully special memory or just because I quite like that particular melody - it’s plain shameful.

Out of them all I think Spotify is my favourite, if only for the name. Last.fm have scrobbling capabilities in relation to my iphone which I’m sure I’m loving but not entirely sure how and We7 is the newest one (at least to me) to invite us to the online party and therefore the catalyst for this post. Enough is enough. I’m sticking with Spotify, but wait they don’t have an iphone application yet! Ok, Last.fm... and they scrobble too! But maybe, just maybe, We7 will be better. It’s all just too much! Come back Ken, all is forgiven.

Quote of the Week: Four Gurkhas

2009-05-25T09:38:00.001+01:00

"Ayo Gurkhali"

JOANNA LUMLEY, celebrates with a traditional war cry after former Gurkhas were allowed to settle in Britain. I thought a Gurkha was just a brand of beer in the curry house - obviously not.

Listen Up!

2009-05-22T17:15:00.000+01:00

So, the sunshine's come out and it's a long weekend ahead - these are the three albums that should be blaring from your stack allowing you to musically indulge your weekend away...

Noisettes - Wild Young Hearts
Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Have a wonderful LONG weekend filled with music and sunshine one and all!

Quote of the Week: BubbleAndTweet

2009-05-18T18:02:00.003+01:00

"Ok, I haven't completely sussed that twitter lark... yet!"

NATALIE BESBRODE, comments on her own ability to... tweet(?!) as we set up BubbleAndTweet on twitter.com

Quote of the Week: Dolly Parton, Barbara Windsor and now M&S

2009-05-11T12:40:00.008+01:00

"We've boobed."

M&S, comments after crumbling under the pressure from BUSTS 4 JUSTICE. The DD'd facebook group declared a victory over Marks & Spencer's unfair pricing of plus cup sized bra's.

buymypaperonline/murdoch

2009-05-11T10:16:00.000+01:00

Murdoch suggests that it's all about charging for online content. News Corp's Wall Street Journal is already making money and the FT has a solid subscriber base. In addition with the all evident and equally unbelievable one million+ hits for BGT’s Susan Boyle prompting her Oprah appearance how could it go unnoticed that the internet is where it’s at for all media.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009/may/11/rupert-murdoch-charging-online-news

Quote of the Week: Read this. Now wash your hands.

2009-05-05T16:46:00.004+01:00

"..carrying tissues and developing a fairly studious hand-washing routine."

CHARLIE BROOKER, the Guardian's most endearingly depressive scribe - finally somebody gives some practical swine flu advice.

Quote of the Week: Who Talks The Nerdy? We Talk The Nerdy!

2009-04-27T12:41:00.009+01:00

"One of the most productive hours I've spent at NAB!"

BOB PANK comments on the annual Talk Nerdy Press Conference at NAB, Las Vegas.

The record turnout for Talk Nerdy meant security was tightened.

If you missed the NAB news from Cintel, Cooke Optics, Digital Vision, Signiant and Tektronix email me on paul@bubblesqueak.co.uk and I'll whizz it all across to you.

Otherwise swing by Berwick Street for a cuppa, a coffee or one of the girls' weirdly and wonderfully scented teas and take it all away on one of the last remaining B&S NAB USB sticks.

We Heart Fridays... and Kindness!

2009-04-24T13:49:00.007+01:00

A delicious salmon and cream cheese bagel in exchange for one of my many bad jokes?!

Berwick Street market traders are accepting kindness instead of cash. So, get yourself down to Soho for a kindness filled lunchtime in the Friday sunshine...

Quote of the Week: Day And Age at the bar...

2009-04-20T14:28:00.011+01:00

"The bar is rubbish"

SADIE GROOM, Whilst at The Killers gig in Las Vegas Sadie finds time to review the bar situation for the Las Vegas entertainment press. Read the full review on http://www.lvrj.com/news/43218512.html

FA Cup Semi Finals, Killers and other exciting stuff... like NAB

2009-04-17T13:35:00.003+01:00

This weekend see's the beloved Wembley Stadium play host to the FA Cup semi finals. Arsenal, arguably London's premier team play will play Saturday's game against Chelsea, who are simply a team of Russian play things. At this point I wish to add that I personally think they are ‘*******’ and should they beat us, yes I'm an Arsenal supporter, I'll be gutted yet duty bound to stand by this sweeping generalisation. I may even re edited this post, highlighting the subtly *’d expletive in an act of school boy mischief.
Then on Sunday through a geographical fluke The North get it on when Man Utd take on Everton. Infact, that should read Everton take on Man Utd if this season's form is anything to go by. Anyway, the reason why the FA Cup is loved is because everyone still believes anyone can win... last year was Portsmouth FC. Although admittedly they did have 'Arry Redknapp at the helm, who is England's answer to Arsene Wenger fused with a little Dell Boy a'la 'Only Fools...'

Anyway, across the puddle… NAB is kicking off! The Bubbles will be there in force with plenty of press interest in our clients, the Talk Nerdy conference and the occasional drinkie it should be a fun, if exhausting affair. In addition The Killers will be returning home to play at The Hard Rock so it’s only right that we got tickets and made a hot fuss pre NAB!

I'll keep you updated with NABness throughout next week and can only apologise for any uninhibited jumping up and down, chanting obnoxiously whilst loudly describing every painful blunder by the blues - I might even come into work wearing my Arsenal shirt should we win over the weekend. If, however we don't, I don't wish to even acknowledge the FA Cup until next year.

Have a great weekend.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T15:18:00.000+01:00

Quote of the Week: Ain't she the sweetest…

2009-04-06T13:45:00.006+01:00

"THE PORN ULTIMATUM"

THE SUN HEADLINE - 31st March. The Home Secretary treats her hubby to filthy movies... and the tax payer pays.

Quote of the Week: April 1st

2009-04-06T10:25:00.003+01:00

"JFK assassin8d @ Dallas, def. heard second gunshot from grassy knoll WTF?"

THE GUARDIAN, the first Newspaper to tweet it's entire news archive, apparently. April Fools 2009.

We write the songs that make the whole world sing...

2009-04-01T14:41:00.010+01:00

Sorry, we don't write the songs and even if we did the world wouldn't join in they'd flee the planet and hole-up in Pluto. I have a severe affliction which makes me indulge in Barry Manilow ballads. It could be worse, Sadie 'sings' Deacon Bue and Wendy's into Punk!

Apologies. What I meant to say is; we write The Preview.

So we were responsible for putting a link to this delightful blog which is written by us, the same creative individuals responsible for Fineline's sublimly entertaining and informative newsletter. So, if you are reading this off the back of that subtle shove to this wonderful sideways glance at BS, thank you. However, if you haven't seen it or you wish to explore further our skills at producing newsletters like this then let us know, we're at http://www.bubblesqueak.co.uk/

I'm just sorry I had to put you through the whole Manilow thing. I'm ashamed.

We understand.

2009-03-25T09:38:00.004Z

So, your budgets are getting credit crunched, but you still need to be visible and now more than ever to get the contracts coming in.

We've created a solution to this dilemma - special packages of communication excellence.

They're a little bit like that package holiday idea which some clever bloke in the 1950's first had, obviously before Thomas Cook cheapened it with part built hotels and way before Expedia.com said you could 'build your own'. Just good value sunshine for those depressed by the grey climates they found themselves in. I feel there's a parallel today.

Wish you were here..? www.bubblesqueak.co.uk

Quote of the Week: First Appearance

2009-03-23T11:21:00.006Z

"They say if you want a friend in Washington, get a dog."

PRESIDENT OBAMA, speaking on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Quote of the Week: British Beef v VaVaVoom

2009-03-16T17:44:00.012Z

Tournoi des six nations : le XV de France humilié par l'Angleterre (34-10)

LE MONDE, The headline that France awoke to after the thumping at Twickenham.

Quote of the Week: Happy Bubble Birthday

2009-03-09T10:15:00.001Z

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Rambo, happy birthday to you! x

EVERYONE, including Paul, wishes Sue a very happy birthday!

Quote of the Week: For Every Goody There's A Baddie

2009-03-02T10:20:00.004Z

“Hopefully they will relax the tag to let me be with Jade."

JACK TWEED, The golf club swinging cabbie's nightmare... and caring husband of Jade Goody.

LipSync go to the front of The Class

2009-02-25T11:00:00.000Z

I arrived at my tube station early this morning feeling tired and... well, like I was going to struggle in the mid-week bog we know as Wednesday! I’d barely woken from my dreamy stupor but somehow managed to wash, dress and drag myself to the front door and was a teeny part way through the very same non-descript journey to work which I encounter every week day when I got on the tube. Usually I gleefully, if secretly begrudgingly, give up my seat for the fairer sex, however, this day I had no reason to do so as I was early and the usual females for which I feel a sense of wrong if I have them standing when I languish in the chair was not there!

So there I sat, teasing the deliciously tactile ball on my newly acquired Blackberry to get my emails out of the way. The usual press requests for images and extra information, which would need replying immediately once I hit Berwick Street were evident, but in amongst all these requests there lay an email with the heading ‘I had a brilliant time – thank you!’ What pleasant emailing is this..?

Let me explain before you think something... well, not right!

Last night Bubble&Squeak put together a charity press screening for LipSync. We ran the trailers which LipSync’s creative team had lovingly created for films and for the charity, Starlight and screened The Class, a fantastically strong and unbelievably thoughtful piece of French cinema distributed through Artificial Eye.

The whole evening was a great event enjoyed by the press, film execs, charity guests, LipSync-ians and the Bubbles. It has also been confirmed that this will be repeated quarterly so that’s at least three more great films, LipSync’s trailers and Wednesday morning’s which I can look forward to!

Quote of the Week: Wash and Go Kate Go!

2009-02-23T10:32:00.006Z

"I'd be lying if I haven't made a version of this speech before. I think I was probably eight years old and staring into the bathroom mirror and this would have been a shampoo bottle. Well it's not a shampoo bottle now."

KATE WINSLET, The Oscar Winning English Actress

Brits Killed The Expo Star?!

2009-02-17T08:30:00.010Z

Something very exciting is about to take place at Earls Court over the next few days! No, I'm not talking about The Brits - I'm talking about Broadcast Video Expo! A place where the future IBCers and NABsters cut their teeth in the home of fish'n'chips, EastEnders and boozers amidst a heady mix of networking, seminars and sales pitches. Thousands of people will indulge in the latest key messages from the likes of Avid, Sony, Tekronix, Adobe and Signiant when the doors open today. When Take That, U2 and The Killers start practising next door I just hope they keep the noise down, especially when Simon Kanjee lets us into his vision of the future of post-production.

Quote of the Week: A Bubble Classic!

2009-02-16T13:00:00.001Z

“I’m being efficient now!”

SUE HUDSON, Office Manager - Bubble & Squeak

The Morning Produced By The Night Before!

2009-02-13T12:00:00.002Z

Ladies and Gentlemen I give you the Music Producer’s Guild Awards Two Thousand Nine.

It was a wonderful inaugural night of back slapping, wooping and merriment for those forgotten geniuses who make Girls Aloud sound like girls aloud, the remixer who helped make the dizziest of all rascals dance wit me and the studio who out cabled and coffee’d the others.

Bernard Butler had an amazing year and was presented his ‘I’m the king of the castle’ award by the adorable Duffy – who really was lovely despite thelondonpaper telling me otherwise on the pages of thebuzz the next day! Calvin Harris was there sporting the most extravagant silver pumps I’ve ever witnessed and picked up his award only to thrust it aloft then trail off backstage to hang with Jack Penate and Brian Eno.
Yes, Brian Eno… the legend who made some of the most delicately evocative sounds ever, did I forget to mention that he was there?! He was and rightly received the award for being blinking brilliant AKA ‘The Joe Meek Award for Innovation in Production’ for his pioneering work in ambient music and his innovative work with sampling whilst also just being as damn cool as a producer can get!

We staggered out of the Café De Paris in the early hours of Friday morning… after enjoying a wonderous affair!

A full list of winners and L’s are available if you www.mpgawards.co.uk

Quote of the Week: All White Boris

2009-02-09T19:57:00.002Z

"There's no doubt about it, this is the right kind of snow, it's just the wrong kind of quantities."

BORIS JOHNSON, Mayor of London

Quote of the Week: Let's go to Wark...

2009-02-02T10:00:00.006Z

"I probably have a shoe problem. Put it this way: Manolo Blahnik sends me a Christmas card each year"

KIRSTY WARK, Presenter of Newsnight and Newsnight Review

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it... Wait, it's February!

2009-02-02T08:30:00.001Z

Welcome to February. The next few days are going to be cold... really cold!

The Bubbles will be hard stretched to get into the office today. In fact everyone commuting into the heart of London from further-a-field than zone two will be spending more time getting in to work than they will spend in the office. Especially as snowfall is expected during the afternoon which will see the poor souls of all those commuter whores rush to the hills in Buckinghamshire, Sutton or Middlesex in fear of being snowed-in, being made to endure a lonely, loveless, loathsome night in the capital. Think '28 Days Later'... only colder, much colder.

So, let's embrace it! Happy Snow Day everyone!

Welcome! Quote of the Week: Oops, My President Did It Again

2009-01-26T17:25:00.013Z

"execute the Office of President of the United States faithfully"

SENATOR BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA, A Presidential Gaff Not Seen Since..?

Whilst still a-gasp in wonderment from the many Bushism that came from Dubbya's reign we were treated to the next Presidential line fluff, kind of, from the then Senator Obama who was being sworn in at the time.

He's responsible for A New America, the Obama Generation and now this blogging thread, as I've decided to roll out a quote of the week. All this and he's shut Guantanamo, I'm almost chanting 'OBAMA' now. So, it might be topical, it might not. I'm just putting it out there to amuse and make sure there's at least one post every Monday.

Ok, so it starts here, then goes through here, runs through here and ends up here without passing through there… get it?!

2009-01-24T18:31:00.003Z

Today I had one of those clichéd moments which rang true from the vast amount of cinema I’ve indulged in during my twenty seven years. You know the one where the scene opens with two guys sitting, discussing and drinking; they’re plotting to rob a bank, working through a love triangle or they’re seen mapping out a small town with the help of the sugar cubes, a ketchup bottle, salt shaker and coffee cup.

It was the first time I’d ever discussed computing in any great detail. My laptop had been playing up so we phoned IT to whom we’re on a first name basis with, such is the complexity of running five computers in the middle of Soho?!

The bespectacled genius with the questionable girlfriend status met me in a coffee shop to ease my woes and after the welcoming chimes of the start up screen and a glance into the depths of my System Profiler, he was able to instantly recognise the problem. Thanks to my insatiable appetite for new music my hard drive was full from the constant down, down, downloading of Alphabeat, Cut Copy, The Fireman, Kings of Leon, Jake Bickerton, Ladyhawk, Noisettes, MGMT and the White Lies; all of which helped create the play list of my two thousand eight.

News of the possibility that my hard drive might have to go on a digital diet was a shock. How could a few beeps and warbles, strings and chords, and a couple of Hollywood’s finest including an animation about a love sick robot account for 40GB..? I was assured it did and I now know that I need Apple’s very own Time Capsule which is marketing speak for an external hard drive made by Steve Jobs’ fair hands. And with thanks to the humble sugar cube which represented the laptop, alongside Ketchup as the Time Capsule, the saltcellar as a bluetooth speaker, two spoons which represented cables and the gingham table cloth staring as the world wide web I’m also now an authority on the set up and the reasons behind it.

Happy Days.

Next time however, I do hope it’s more bank robbery, love triangle or small town shoot out rather than wireless media storage.

President Obama. Ta-da!

2009-01-20T21:50:00.004Z

History was taking place…




..and I was playing around with Wordle!

An American Hero. No, sit down Obama, it'll be your turn next week...

2009-01-18T17:48:00.008Z

One hundred and fifty five people... that's the number of people waking up this morning because of the heroic actions of 'Sully' this week. Yes that's right, it wasn't Maverick, Iceman or Viper who piloted the 70 ton Airbus A320 away from the crowded Manhattan streets and incredibly touched down in the Hudson River. It was in fact the Texas born US Airways Captain Chesley B Sullenberger III.
It is an amazing feat which has been met with awe and respect around the world.
Met with equal wonderment was the Boston Herald's inspired headline "It was a Bird, it was a Plane but they had Superman"... well, nearly.

Warning! A Very Unimaginative Post Title - 'Happy New Year'

2009-01-01T22:37:00.015Z

I have nothing to add. Happy New Year. That's your lot.
It's the very first day of January. Last night, every single person I know delighted themselves by binging on beer, wines and spirits leaving the whole of the western world feeling less than clever!
Have a great hangover and a wonderful '09!

Take This - Excitement in The Bubble Office!

2008-12-10T15:56:00.005Z

I don't know if you realise this but you're living in an exciting time. Right now. Can you feel it?

What about this: Barack Hussein Obama II. Just think about it for a moment, bloody amazing isn't it... (you should be hearing applause in your ears now). It's this amazement that leads to overwhelming excitement, but it’s not his time, yet. So I'm not going to harp on about the United States of America and the fate of this super power being held in the hands of their first black President because it's in the dull bit now (the unconscious mind's clapping now sarcastically slows to a dribble). Because everything, every single thing waits for Christmas.

Now, this isn't going to be some hard sell on the excitement of Christmas, because once the whole Santa thing is realised at about 12, which nearly ruined my sense of trust and responsibility, it has its draw backs and the excitement wanes a little. You know, the frustrating gift buying for relatives you hardly know. Or going to spend quality time with the folks and passing at break neck speed past the quality part of the time and there you sit... awaiting a night sleeping in 'Your Bed' circa 1988. And then there’s sitting in a stagnant position between two people; one beaming with surprising intent brandishing a pack of Imperial Leather Soap with your name neatly written on the tag, and the other, offering yet another Quality Street. So there you sit moving a coffee cream around your mouth because all the toffee pennies have gone, and you've persauded yourself that you really want to see the Christmas special on television, which is slightly less special than when originally screened back in 1926 when John Logie Baird introduced it. No, for all the excitement that the twenty-fifth brings it also sticks a middle finger to excitement.

Nor am I talking about the economic situation and the excitement therein. Yes really, the excitement that comes through the desperation of an economic downturn - you've obviously never hit those lows. Just stop earning for a while and want. Want money and a job and then after you've been rejected, dismissed and unwanted you’ll feel dejected and mentally broken into teeny tiny bits to the point you may find yourself comfort eating the same repugnant CV's you've been sending out just before you get to the excitement. Then it comes, washing over you. Really, it's definitely worth the wait. Also, this seems to me to be a very exciting time to learn Economics, from the bottom up as it were.

No, this excitement is all over four blokes who will never feel that level of excitement... and they may soon become five blokes once more. Ladies and Ladies, I give you Take That. It’s rumoured Robbie may be coming back to join the boyband that sound tracked the 90’s which is still made up of Mark, Gary, Jason and the other one. They’ve been hitting the number one spot again and appearing everywhere in recent months and I wouldn’t mind so much but they’ve entered into the Marks and Spencer’s ad’s and therefore muscled in on the delicate and scantily clad forms of Ms. Lily Cole and Mrs. Noemie Makelele.

I hope they do reform to the five piece. Then shortly after Robbie will leave them and it will all end again with thousands of girls ringing the Samaritains but I'll be able to go a day without them playing on the bloody radio or cavorting on the TV, greeting me in Marks and Spencer but most importantly being lusted over by the girls in the office.

One of which is my boss. I dedicate this post to you.

The Concierge At The Grosvenor Took Me Out The Back...

2008-12-08T21:45:00.003Z

This weekend was Vision Charity's premier evening in the calendar, an evening which aims to raise money to transform the lives of visually impaired children - The Vision Charity Ball. It is also an opportunity for the media industry professionals to gather together, get sloshed, out bid and generally have a thoroughly enjoyable evening without thinking about bandwidth, tapeless capabilities and the introduction of Red by thinking of the unfortunate darlings who's lives will be made that much better from being exposed to a Sensory Room. Fantastically we were able to raise enough for at least two of the aforementioned rooms from the evening's silent auction, lucky dip and the main auction where prizes varied from a Matisse to a Smart Car.

The menu boasted a delicious parcel of camembert and cranberries, a pesto crusted rack of lamb and the most alcoholic trifle I've ever binged on... imagine some quality Elmlea whipped and sparingly perched on top of a pint of brandy. Needless to say there wasn't a desert spoon which wasn't licked clean and barely an inch left on the dance floor once the intoxicated pudding had taken it's affect!

But the tipsy state of most didn't take the shine off the glamour. It was a fantastic way to kick off December; everyone looked lovely although before next year I must learn how to do up a bow tie, or get a clip on - I don't want to make a habit of disappearing out the back with Paulo, the Concierge at The Grosvenor.

Make Mine... Service with a smile?!

2008-11-18T12:46:00.001Z

It’s Monday, well, actually it’s Tuesday but for the reference of this post, which I wrote late last night (whilst again indulging in The West Wing – it’s an addiction!) it's Monday. Which means it’s a trip to the sandwich shop for those of us still indulging in carbs... it actually has more to do with the fact that Jo’s in the office than the sudden need to have an intake of bread!

We normally drag ourselves round to the homogenous atmosphere of a prêt two seconds away (especially if drizzly!) or to the slightly further away, but normally queue out of the door Make Mine on Wardour Street. Today was a Make Mine day and we were met with the normal crazed sandwich hunters all huffing and tutting and queuing to get an overpriced treat that will taste great for a while but will inevitably be a thing of the past in an hour - imagine a new 3 double ‘g’ all singing all dancing iphone being sold from a small corner shop in Soho where there are less geeks with bad breath and NHS glasses and more ‘trendy’ Soho-ites with skinny jeans and, well... NHS glasses actually.

Anyway, we battled through, placed our orders and then came the bit which essentially drives us to this particular outlet every week... the concisely self-titled, ‘make your name up bit’. You see, every week we have the childish tendency of lying to a young girl in a sandwich shop by NOT telling her our real names – Ta Da! Then we stand there awaiting our sarnie in fear of missing our names when they’re called out because we’re not used to being called ‘Dennis’ or ‘Sandie’ or Donatello – I was feeling especially hilarious one day, how we laughed!

However, it is this kind of getting to know the customer loveliness that is lacking, isn’t it? Both Sadie and Jo have recently jetted back and forth across the globe, between them catching twelve or thirteen flights. Don’t panic!! They’ve assured me they’ll be spending the rest of the week working out how to rid future generations of the newly created carbon footprint caused by over indulgent flights – planting a tree, buying a Prius or simply looking at people at the checkout in a condescending way when they don’t reuse their plastic bags! I digress, on their return they of course did the shop talk, where they’d been, bought and quite what they indulged in.
However, they also both remarked on the apparent lack of customer service in the UK. They enthused in Australia’s level of advice, the US’s approach to customer attention. In one instance the sales assistant enquired about their name, which was then duely called out over the cubicle and even scribed on a white board on the changing room door for future (slightly unnerving) reference. They loved the suggestions and lapped up the attention which was adorned on them with hanger in hand. But generally the staff were being over friendly, something certainly glared at in London and throughout England, as far as I aware.

So was it just the holiday gaze that took hold of the girlies. The everything’s new and exciting gaze where everything appears rosier and the grass greener, or is it that the over enthusiastic and highly attentive service of those supervisors, sales assistants and people in general from over the pond and beyond have got what London is missing – service with a smile, and apparently much more?!

I thought about this... and well, maybe but we just don’t want it. We like to grumble and don’t like to be smothered! Plus, and this might just be me, but don’t we want to poke fun at this approach to friendly-friendly shopping experience and not return the false niceties of an American store or an Australian fashion house. Admittedly, my name’s not Dennis it’s Paul, so why do I want to be childish about it. What if they decided to be childish their end of the deal and greet me with a whining why? Whhy? Whhhy? to every aspect of my order, would I find that funny?! I think not. But it should be, or could be harmless fun but actually I’m helping, along with Jo may I add to the lack of service in shops throughout London. The thing is I’m not going to stop. I’m childish and enjoy the self indulgent carb binge nearly as much as the mockery of the un-English, over-friendly, personalized (with a ‘Z’) system at the sandwich shop! So here’s to great sandwiches, taking the piss and service without a smile.

With Sadie Away, We Had To Find Other Ways Of Entertaining Ourselves

2008-11-16T16:33:00.005Z

Last week, in recognition of the most historical moment in American Political history in my lifetime I started a voyage into the fictional democratic administration of Josiah Bartlet.

Let me explain... when I first joined Bubble and Squeak we started discussing favourite television shows. 'The West Wing!' someone proclaimed 'It simply had to be watched!' retorted others. It turned out that throughout the various people in our little office there lay, just waiting for my viewing pleasure the whole box set of the entire seven years. Wendy lent me the first series, which consists of 22 episodes of the 156 episodes, which form the seven series.

I borrowed it last weekend and watched it committedly. It was an amazingly engaging story, brilliantly written and characterisation of the like which we rarely see in cinema and have become accustomed to in quality television dramas.
Needless to say, I have now been utterly seduced by the on goings of The President, Leo, Josh, Sam, Toby, CJ who have me traveling with them on their journey through the office relationships, complimented by the backdrop of the White House where the speeches and invasions are as entertaining as the pardoning of bloody turkeys!

A five star recommendation by all those Bubbles.

Sud This!

2008-10-24T14:55:00.004+01:00

We were bemused yesterday to be asked if Soho's favourite PR agency had 'Bubbled' Trafalgar Square.

Page seven, thelondonpaper. Page four, Metro. Page eight, The Evening Standard. Page two, London Lite.
They all squeaked the same bubble ridden story of a 'Mr. Bubbles' going crazy with a bottle of washing up liquid in the centre of London in an effort to contribute to a European craze of bubbling up public fountains! A website where people can brag about what they've done whilst wearing the obligatory hood and photographing it on their camera phone no doubt has been set up to fuse the mischief of Jackass with the bonding of Facebook. It was reported that an individual armed with carrier bags full of the green craziness simply lunged into the fountain which then erupted and covered the square in bubbles - like a bubble terrorist however the only carnage was Nelson's never looked cleaner.

We do have our suspicions, and are helping the police with their enquires, that a certain bubble could have been responsible as she does have remarkably fairy soft hands. Unfortunately she's skipped the country?! hmmm...

The Monday After The Weekend After The Thursday Of The Conch

2008-09-29T11:42:00.006+01:00

I feel exhausted. OK, so it's Monday morning, every twenty something in the country is slouched over their keyboard feeling like they've indulged too much, wondering why they had those shots of god only knows what and fundamentally look and feel rotten! Sure, thank you for your kind thoughts and compassion. However I've been feeling like this since Friday and all of this can be blamed on The Conch.

And Sadie"you’restaying-nowgetonthatdancefloor"Groom!

This was Bubble and Squeak's third Conch and in my humble opinion it was a great success. Not least because it saw me leave The May Fair Hotel at 4 am after celebrating with the winners, drowning sorrows with the losers and thinking that the drinkies had gone to my head. The awards themselves looked amazing, the venue was stunning and the entertainment was well received. Neil Mullarkey was a hilarious host and a true gentlemen, the well mannered and disturbingly flexible contortionist screwed herself up into a perspex box and then closed the door to rapturous applause and the magician worked the crowd by showing off his impressive card shuffling skills which were met with awe and disbelief.

The winners cheered, the losers whined and the 'well done' emails and congratulatory bouquets flooded into the Bubble's office for putting on such a great show and making nearly everyone's Conch a great one. We tried our best and hope you all had a great time… and Friday off!

Does that look like...

2008-09-19T11:55:00.006+01:00

Soho and the female form have always gone hand in hand. From the ladies of the night to the Revue circa 1970 and this week, those shiny awards that look like a discreet part of the female anatomy. I apologise, they don’t. It’s me being perverted. They look like a conch. And that's because we are less than 24 hours away from.... The Conch Awards 2008.
Sadie’s currently fretting about tickets and the possibility of over booking the cinema - how could we spin sitting on laps…? A cosy networking possibility, speed lapping?! My telephone number is somehow the first point of contact for dwarves, cybervixens, golden statues and a boy band calling themselves 'The Singing Plague Victims'. Last night in the pre Conch mayhem Jo was in her living room cutting and pasting having resorted to taking Operation Cue Cards home in an effort to get intoxicated after we took all solvents away apart from her Prit Stick and Sue, well, what exactly has Sue been doing... "doing The Conch - you just wouldn't understand!"

The Bubbles have the wonderous task of crossing all T's and dotting all I's. And we hope all those attending have a suitably wonderful time! Even without the Singing Plague Victims.

I've been IBC'd - An Introduction

2008-09-15T22:30:00.004+01:00

It's 22:36 on Tuesday and I'm still knackered from my flirtation with the Media's biggest European exhibition - IBC. For those who don't know, which included me three weeks ago, the event takes place and essentially takes over Amsterdam for five days in September. And it's big. A showcase on a grand scale that's somewhat reminiscent of a zoo or a circus, only in this zoo technology replaces the penguins and caged lions and the attendees who pay their money and flock to stare and marvel at the performances in the big top actually venture into the equally bizarre constructed world within the RAI.

What really got me was the scale and diversity. The Avids and Sonys of the world were there, the unbelievably popular stands (maybe five percent up on last year?!) where people poured over the latest advances but then and this is where the industry started to unnerve me slightly, there were stands solely designated to the strangely impressive array of microphone shields which I'm assured can come in every conceivable shape, size and colour. Let me know if you're in need of one… I lost eleven minutes of my life being talked at - I’d like to think they weren’t lost for nothing. Email me on paul@doesntwanttoknowaboutmouldedfoam.com.

And on that note, I think I'll catch up on some sleep.

i should have ibC'n it coming!

2008-09-15T13:11:00.006+01:00

Talk on the IBC beach…

· The Credit Crunch. With the news of financial institutions crashing around us how will this affect the media?

· Super Hi-Vision!

· In contrast the future for cameras is looking bright, and Rouge is the colour. Metadata anyone..?

· Dear Google and Youtube, You’re Parasites. Regards, Michael Grade.

· Is film dead yet? Nope.

2008-09-10T18:08:00.002+01:00

Getting IBC’d Up!

Over the next Six days we’ll be covering the IBC.
I say SIX because the over excitable Bubbles that we are will be hanging out getting all the news, latest buzz words and random business cards from the very start of the fun and games right through the drunken introductions, grand unveilings and Sadie’s Traditional Steak Dinner Monday til Tuesday comes and the bubbles have all burst…

..and we’ll be back in the office.

2008-09-09T16:52:00.005+01:00

Blog

Definition:
an online diary; a personal chronological log of thoughts published on a Web page; also called Weblog, Web log.
Example:
Typically updated daily, blogs often reflect the personality of the author.

We’re starting this blog afresh. That definition above is for our benefit more than yours - it’s a guide, because as like everything else we do at Bubble and Squeak... it simply has to be right! The newest member of the team has been put in control of this blog and within the posts below and those in the archive he’ll endeavour to deliver a blog that’s tuned in; giving insights into public relations, he'll reflect on our work, divulge rumours from the media industry and Soho as well as allow you access to the hilarity which take place within the Bubble and Squeak office.

Anyway, that’s what you can expect…whether or not you’ll get it is another thing entirely?!