As the Dirt and Leon projects shut down for an xmas breather we reflect… on what has been a mega year.
The Dirt- An album release -Agitator.. That has shifted all its limited 100 press vinyl copies. As CDs continue to sell with downloads. Listed in the top 100 albums by Louder than war. And top 25 by Emerging Rock Radio. Gigs nationally on a pure DIY system. And now, announced 11 date tour with 90s icons EMF. Yep its unvelievable!
For a band that loves the DIY ethos and thrives in a battle of respect for the alternative, unsigned and underground this journey has been mega.
Two years live now.. learning the craft, meeting great new folk and bouncing with the old. Whats not to love. New tracks in a set that is evolving into something we call ‘an event!’…
If youve not been, come along sometime!
As for Leon.. well i dont stop.. project ideas come.. go.. get seized.. loose pace.. thrive and die.. thats Art…
Big achievements were firstly getting book 3 out there – An iridescent dream. Thanks to Kitty Aurora for the artwork.. and especially steve Reilly who has a brilliant digitals skill of making what goes on in my head a reality and a tangible product!!..
Leon also filled a massive studio at shiine on fest. Poetry at a music fest on sunday morning to a packed space.. Mega!!.. loved it.. As I did introducing EMF to several 1000 at Bearded theory. This journey is crackers. It takes me to the most crazy places.
Ive loved the close up cosey business end too, featuring at out of town poetry events, compering festivals, activism events. Also collaborations with musicians facilitating talks and workshops.
Everything i do makes me pinch myself. This year astounded me.. oh and i did a week tour of Japan with Matt McManamon of Dead 60s in september too!. Haha..
So where fo we go next?
The Dirt have a full year of gigs ahead of them. New tracks written so at some point studio beckons for a 2025 release. Lots of events, festivals and gigs to announce. LETS EMBRACE EMF FIRST!!
Leon has a few things bubbling. Featured word slots. A regular compere gig night in Glossop at the Globe. And a festival to organise.. yep.. it never stops!!.. love it.
On that note im signing off to reboot, refuel regroup and repair.. Ready for a mega year ahead.
Come say hello somewhere.. maybe buy a book.. a CD.. a T shirt.. join the pig pen party!!..
Thank you to all that have supoorted this incredible journey so far.. its mega from this side of the mic.. we hope you have a top time on the other.. lets meet in the middle and have a bounce!!.
Take care.. have a top festive period.. be nice.. and happy new year!! Heres some stuff to look at!
Leon The Pig Farmer - Website by Steve Reilly 