Fleetwood Mac Benchmark Live Performance

This was one of those concerts that surpasses the studio recording experience by such a margin that the original recordings in some ways now become a disappointment. The sheer energy and exuberance (Lindsay Buckingham leading the way) place the benchmark for live performance very high. If you put 100% of yourself into what you are doing the audience will respond in kind, a feedback loop is created, which lifts the show to new heights.

I'm not one for jumping up and dancing. Seated - I drift into a cinematic zone - immersed in the light and sound - mesmerised. That was my experience for many of my favourites from the band: 'Tusk', 'Go Your Own Way', 'Don't Stop'. I was floating up there above the stage - totally absorbed - no artificial stimulants required.

These 'older' bands have something that newer bands cannot have - years and years of experience - perfectly illustrated by 'Oh Well'. This songs stops and starts on a pin and showed off the bands virtuosity to a tee. Wow. Blew my socks off.

Sound quality was perfect and the light show and the silhouette effect created by the rear projection did not distract but enhanced, so bonus points to the sound guys and the stage design.

Performance 10/10. Sound 10/10. Visuals 10/10. Atmosphere 10/10. Venue 10/10.

Highly recommended. Wish I could take it all home with me to experience it all again...

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See some more pics and info at http://nickslive.blogspot.com/

Google GPS Mobile Navigation

Google has announced its mobile navigation software. Only on Android (2.0) for now. TomTom and Garmin shares have taken a hit, on top of their general downward trend.

For now, the Garmins' and TomToms' have an advantage of working 'offline' in areas with no coverage. Googles' mobile navigator and other similar networked navigators require network coverage, so they are challenged 'in the bush'.

I'd say for 90% of the market for 90% of the time, no network coverage is a non issue, and given time and a maturing of networked products, that issue would be resolved. Another issue for networked devices is data charges. However, the trend there is toward bundled data packages and reduced prices from the providers as the mobile data market also matures.

The writing is on the wall for the dedicated devices, so will be interesting to see how they parry. It's very hard to complete with 'free'.

Some cool Google Nav features:

• StreetView - see an actual picture of your turn and your destination with your route overlaid
• Voice Directions - "Navigate to the museum with the Egyptian exhibit"

Links:

http://www.google.com/mobile/navigation/index.html#p=default

http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/10/28/googles-new-mobile-app-cuts-gps-nav-companies-at-the-knees/

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=auEoMU5e2zTA