Justin Thorne News!!!

Crazy Summer...

2008-09-02T16:52:00.003Z

Should be a good night, Matt is a very talented singer songwriter with a great voice and plenty of feel in his playing.

Last Saturday, I played in the chapel at La Hougue Bie and luckily, Brian Skelley was there to fire off a few shots (see below:)

Gigs... no, seriously... Gigs!

2008-07-24T09:13:00.003Z

I'm actually playing a few shows over the next few months.

I haven't played live to an audience for at least 12 months, which is shocking. Things are wrapping up in Jono's studio at least until we find some interest in the tunes, so I'm hungry to get out there again.

Of course, the big one is the Grassroots Festival on 23 August with Xavier Rudd, which will be immense. Down at the Green Hut, St Ouen, overlooking the waves. Ben Howard, a very talented singer songwriter is also supporting - if you can, check out his MySpace page, his tunes are awesome - great voice and he has that percussion thing on the guitar down to a fine art. Xavier will be playing just as the sun starts to set.

Below: The man himself, tearing up his didgeridoos.

Tickets are £18 and all proceeds go to Surf Aid International, plus the whole event is Eco-Friendly and revolves around an Eco-Village (Free Entry), promoting healthy living, recycling and conservation. You even get the chance to win prizes if you car share or cycle down to the event. There's a Beach Clean in the morning, surfing all day, the Eco-Village is open all afternoon and of course the open air concert closes the day out.

30 August, I'm playing a very unusual gig in the Chapel at La Hougue Bie.

Imagine this if you will. 2000 years before the pyramids existed, a Neolithic tomb was built into a mound. Then, a few thousand years later (about 4000 actually), a medieval chapel was built on top of this mound. During the occupation of Jersey by the Germans during WWII, they decided to build an underground bunker right next door - so you can imagine this is a pretty wild tourist attraction as far as touristy attractions go. You definitely get a vibe when you crawl into the mound, there's an ancient magic in there.

Anyway, I will playing an acoustic set, slap bang in the chapel.

Below: La Hougue Bie - you can see the entrance to the tomb at the bottom.

Early September, I'm back at the Jersey Arts Centre, splitting a show with Matt McManus.

And in a few weeks (date to be confirmed) I am playing in the Cafe at the Arts Centre as part of an acoustic showcase Matt is putting together over the summer.

Check out my MySpace page, as I have put some demos of the studio tracks up on the music player.

Xavier Rudd

2008-06-20T17:55:00.002Z

I am completely blown away as I will be supporting the amazing

on Saturday 23 August at the Grassroots Festival in Jersey

Brian Malone's Review (May 2007)

2008-03-24T12:59:00.002Z

**Taken from Brian Malone's Blog for prosperity!**

I read widely in the speculative fiction genre, from fantasy to science fiction to horror to just-plain strange. I'll admit to certain biases: I'm not overly fond of Conan-type stories or military science fiction in the Heinlein vein, I shy away from gratuitous blood and semen, and I'm not usually a big fan of the clever plot twist in the last paragraph style of writing. But still, I like to read very widely, and my writing, likewise, tends to wander back and forth across the always hazy borders of genre.

This is why I was delighted to get my hands on an advance copy of In the Shadows, an anthology of short stories by Justin Thorne.

Shadows collects about ten years of Thorne's short fiction writing and is about equally distributed between fantasy, science fiction and horror--with a few non-genre stories thrown into the mix. And mix is the appropriate word, as In the Shadows shuffles together an eclectic melange of style and subject.

Just as importantly, most of Thorne's writing [features] a wry, sarcastic wit that naturally appeals to me. And though the writing is certainly well-crafted--all of the periods are in place and most commas appear where they should--the true strength of Shadows lies in Thorne's characters. Wary and world-weary, as are all who live (or lived) interesting lives, there are characters who truly do come to life on the page, vivre veritas, or something like that. But more on that later.

So, what is the bad news? Well there really isn't any, as the nature of an anthology should suggest. I enjoyed some stories more than others, a few I did not care for (see, biases, first paragraph) , and one turned my stomach. But that is to be expected for no writer has ever produced a story universally loved without reservation. Still, for the few stories that just did not appeal to me, Thorne gives many others that really satisfy. So with all that being said, let me hit the highlights.

The best entry in Shadows--but only by a hair--is Dotted Line, previously published in Nocturne Magazine. Clever, sarcastic and ultimately sad, Dotted Line actually retells the old tale of an artist striking a deal with the diabolical. Needless to say, though, Thorne brings a unique and deliciously dry wit to bear on the story of the artist with nothing to lose but his soul. (Indeed, Thorne revisists this theme later in The Comedian).

Following up on Dotted Line, is the wonderfully subtle Monumental Words in which a well meaning gesture turns into a night of zombie-terror. But don't expect the usual, for this is no mere Romero rip-off, but rather a sensitive treatment on the spiritual power of symbols. Monumental Words first appeared in Be Which Magazine.

Rounding out the top three stories is the previously unpublished Monkey Puzzle, one of the non-genre entries in Shadows. Easily the longest story in the collection, Monkey Puzzle tells a story that is more a crime thriller/detective than fantasy or horror. Here Thorne tones down the sarcasm to explore the always thorny ground of racism, overt and covert, knowing and unknowing. Although the 'mystery' becomes readily apparent at least half-way through, knowing (or at least strongly suspecting the ending) does not detract from the message of this story. Thorne toned down, however, is still not preachy; the moral of this story must be written by the reader.

There is no space for me to continue, not if I want to also talk about Thorne's characterization, so it must suffice to mention just a few of the other excellent stories in Shadows, in particular: The Only Constant, The Medium is the Message, Worms, The Comedian, The Doorman, and most especially, Soundtrack.Character, character, what is a good story without good characters? Well of course there's more to it than that. Dialogue, structure, plotting, the artistry of the words themselves. Short fiction is particularly difficult because so much has to be done in so few words. In short fiction a compelling character can make, or break, everything. And Thorne's strength in his short fiction is character.

From nothing to lose Tim Blaine, the writer ready to make a deal with the devil, to the unnamed paragon of stubborness in Worms (yes, that was the story that turned my stomach, but still a great character) Thorne's creations seem all but real, as if Shadows were really a collection of biographies. Thorne is also a musician/singer/songwriter, and so perhaps he is well-used to making great characters come to life in only a few verses. Whatever it is, it works. And, well, let me just leave you with a taste of what I mean, from Dotted Line (I wonder what I would do in his place):

Tim stared across at the man and for a while, both men sat in silence. He took a deep breath. "Okay, so worst case scenario is a grisly death, followed by an eternity of individuality. Plus, you can’t tell me when my death will occur?"

“Correct. Unfortunately, the other team control life spans, that was the deal the Chief and . . . the other Chief, came up with.”

“What if I sign the deal, walk out and get hit by a car?” he asked.

“That is the chance you will have to take, Tim. And as per the terms and conditions, it would likely be something a little more . . . unpleasant than a simple motor accident.”

The waitress approached the table carrying a jug of stewed coffee. The man waved her away without looking up.

Tim would have accepted a top-up, had he been consulted. “I take it I don’t have any time to think about it?” he asked.

“Sorry,” replied the man, “This is a one-time deal, offered once and accepted or declined at the time of offer.”

Tim looked down at his briefcase containing his work, his craft. How many times have I said that I would do anything to make it?

“Probably no more and no less than every other passionate artist, poet or writer out there,” replied the man.

Tim nodded, not comprehending that the man had just answered his unspoken thought. “Alright,” said Tim excitedly, “Fuck it. Let’s do it. Where’s the dotted line? I’ll sign it.”

The man smiled and held out his hand for Tim to shake. Tim grasped the hand and shook it twice.

“That was it Mr Blaine, the dotted line . . . and you just signed.”

Waterstones bits n bobs

2007-09-04T17:45:00.001Z

The Latest...

2007-05-27T08:22:00.000Z

It was an amazing weekend, the launch at Waterstones was awesome (photos soon), thanks to everyone who made the effort to come down, and of course, massive thanks to those of you who bought a copy of the book. There was a nice mix of friends and family and people I have never met before - although I am a little worried at how many youngsters turned up with my book to sign - I hope I don't corrupt any kids!

Big thanks to my publisher, Thomas Sigel for coming over from the States to help make the event such a success.

Here's a breakdown of press, reviews and interviews:

BBC Radio Interview on the launch, music, the creative process and online communities - HERE>>>

BBC TV Interview on the book, complete with eery close-ups of my evil eyes and sinister crotch! - HERE>>>

UKSFBookNews Interview on the synergies between writing fiction and music - HERE>>>

Official SFFWORLD review of the book - HERE>>>

Brian Malone's review - HERE>>>

BBC Interview!

2007-05-24T19:18:00.000Z

You can watch the BBC Interview online HERE>>>

Saturday 5-7pm - Waterstones

2007-05-22T18:23:00.000Z

Waterstones - in-store NOW!!!

2007-05-18T15:23:00.001Z

BBC Interview...

2007-05-17T09:23:00.001Z

I was interviewed last night on BBC Spotlight and I don't think I came across as a complete idiot - just a bit of an idiot!

I am honoured to have shared the program with a segment on gay marriage and online gambling - anthology of the curious indeed!

Anyway, I think you can watch it HERE>>> but only for 24 hours or so.

New Review!

2007-05-16T11:18:00.000Z

Brian Malone has written an excellent review HERE>>>

And don't forget:

TV Interview...

2007-05-15T10:25:00.000Z

Yep - I have an interview tomorrow afternoon with BBC Spotlight to talk about the book and the offical launch at Waterstones on May 26th!

Nervous? Yuhuh!

Saturday 26th May - 5pm-7pm - Waterstones

2007-05-15T07:52:00.000Z

First review is in!

2007-05-11T09:25:00.000Z

Check out the first review for In the Shadows over at SFFWORLD HERE>>>

And if you aren't bored of my ramblings already, don't forget about the interview over at UKSFBookNews HERE>>>

The limited edition, signed and numbered version of the book is available now from my publisher's website or if you are in Jersey, you can come and get one from me at Waterstones on Saturday May 26th between 5pm and 7pm - I'm laying on canapes and wine and of course, signing the books in-store.

Cheers!

In the Shadows - Ready to pre-order!

2007-05-01T11:50:00.000Z

In the Shadows: an anthology of the curious - is now available to pre-order from the Sigel Press Website.

You can order the limited edition, signed and numbered (1/1000) or the standard edition.

High quality front cover...

2007-04-26T13:56:00.000Z

Final Cover!

2007-04-10T09:23:00.000Z

4th May - Jersey Arts Centre

2007-04-05T10:14:00.000Z

Click to enlarge!

Academic Bits N Bobs...

2007-03-27T08:33:00.000Z

I've just delivered an introduction on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for the new edition of Oxford University Press' Principles of Marketing text book.

I'm also working on a new academic article on online communities called Online Community Interaction: Revolution or Revulsion? for the 4th International Conference on Cybernetics and Information Technologies, Systems and Applications... now that's a mouthful! My Abstract has been submitted, I just need to write the actual paper now! Eek!

There's also talk of me contributing a chapter on Online Networking and Communities for a new academic text on the new media but details are thin on the ground at the moment.

Just in case you missed it, check out my recent interview with UK SF Book News where we discussed my new book and the synergies between writing fiction and music.

Also, finally, the boxes of my new CD, Live @ Jersey Arts Centre will be delivered any day and to mark the launch, I am playing in the Main Theatre of the Arts Centre on the 4th May! Tickets are available from the box office or online (from next week) It'd be great to see you all there!

jTx

My first interview for In the Shadows...

2007-03-26T14:17:00.000Z

I am really excited that UKSFBookNews.net have posted an interview with me about my book and the synergies between writing music/lyrics and fiction.

This is cool because it is the first time I have discussed my book with the SF&F Press apart from the forums I frequent.

Thanks Ariel, for being a legend and supporting a newbie author!

Also nice to see both the book cover and the album cover!

Cheers

jT

Coming in May 2007!

2007-03-20T16:39:00.000Z

First look!

2007-01-26T10:26:00.000Z

Rayne's shot...

2006-11-06T15:07:00.000Z

Wicked new photo from Jersey's premiere, musician's photographer, Rayne:

jT Update...

2006-10-31T13:30:00.000Z

Well, it's been a while and I must apologize to anyone who checks back here for updates.

The truth is, I tend to keep the MySpace profiles up-to-date when it comes to blogs, bulletins and gig dates... which is a bit stupid when I have a Website, I know! But still, that is how it goes, so my music profile is here and the profile for my soon-to-be-released book is here.

MUSIC

Jono Rothwell is in the process of mixing my Jersey Arts Centre show, recorded in August, and it's sounding great! I can't wait to get in and do the final tweaks. The CD should be out just after Christmas and will include brand new tunes. In fact, of the nine tunes on there, only two tracks (Sold & Like home) are from '...honey'.

Full track list on the CD (called 'Bringing the beach to town') is as follows:

1. Event horizon
2. It's summer somewhere
3. We surrendered
4. Same, same
5. Fools
6. My card
7. Like home
8. Sold
9. Hold on

THE BOOK

In February 2007, my first book is being released in the US and the UK, with Kedzie Press.

I've been VERY lucky with the blurbs I have received and I am especially honoured to have received a great endorsement from one of the World's best heroic fantasy authors, James Barclay.

Below is the text from the back of the book:

In the Shadows is a collection of previously published short stories and brand new tales from an emerging voice in genre fiction. The anthology includes fantasy, horror, science fiction, crime, mystery and an exclusive preview of the forthcoming fantasy novel, Footsteps.

Highlights include Dotted Line, featured in Nocturne Magazine - a dark tale about an author presented with an offer most would find hard to refuse; Arthur’s Tavern, featured in Legend Magazine - a contemporary fantasy short story that provides an alternative addition to the Arthurian legend; and The Taurutor, a brand new novella written especially for the anthology - an atmospheric fantasy adventure set in an African/Egyptian culture where one man refuses to succumb to the curse of the Predulack!

And I am very excited about the cover, which is coming along nicely (Click on it to get a better look):

Also had some academic writing success in Boston, with my paper called 'The Freaks and Geeks Manifesto: Genre Readers are Revolting' which appears in the academic journal for the 4th International Conference of the Book, this month.

Pub...

2006-08-31T10:14:00.000Z

Probably the best pub in the world: