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• New for 2010! 'Crimson Queen' Japanese Edition CD: Available from Eil, Ideal Copy & other Import CD stores •

 
From Sheep Farming: Dreamscape Tour Gallery 31 October, 2011
Trick or Treat? Check out 100's of terrific photos from numerous dates of the 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' UK Tour. Thanks to all the generous Toyah fans and gig-goers for sending so many photos, including Sharon Dickson for this great shot from The Classic Grand, Glasgow. More than worthy of a Gallery ad. View a larger version here and click below to visit the 'FSF-A' Gallery page.

 
Londonist: Music Choice: 31 October - 6 November 31 October, 2011
Saturday: things will get a little trancy with D/R/U/G/S and Digitalism at the Forum. Whilst the last night of Toyah’s 30th anniversary tour arrives at the Islington Academy with support from the charming ‘sleazy, spiky synth-punk’ of Mechanical Cabaret.

• There's also a news story at the 'Kenilworth Weekly News', Leamington Assembly gig gives the Girls something to scream about, on one of the bands supporting Toyah at the 'FSF-A' Leamington Spa gig, Girls That Scream. View here.

 
The Birmingham Press: What's On At The Assembly 31 October, 2011
On Thursday there’s another big-in-the-eighties singer at the Assembly in the shape of local heroine Toyah. Her chart days may be over, but the former Ms Willcox has carved out a reputation as a fine live performer and her gigs should be approached with an open mind. Tickets £18.
 
From Sheep Farming... Manchester: Photos 31 October, 2011
Happy Halloween! Photos of Toyah onstage, and off, last night at a very busy Manchester Academy. Click on each for larger versions. These have also been added to our huuuuge FSF-A Gallery page. The penultimate 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' gig is this coming Thursday at The Assembly, Leamington Spa. Tickets here. (Thanks to Paul Lomas for the great Toyah photos)



 
From Sheep Farming... Bristol: Photos 30 October, 2011
More amazing photos. Toyah onstage at The Tunnels, Bristol on Thursday night. Please click on each of the below for larger versions. These, and more, have also been added to our FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Zoe Evans, pictured below with Toyah in Cardiff, for these great photos)



 
From Sheep Farming... Cardiff: Photos 30 October, 2011
Toyah at The Globe, Cardiff on Friday night. Please click on each of the below for larger versions. These, and more, have also been added to our FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Zoe Evans)

 
From Sheep Farming... Wolverhampton: Photos 30 October, 2011
Fantastic photos of Toyah's 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' gig at The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton on 22nd October. All of these and more have been added to the FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Claire Wade - Click on each photo below to view at Claire's 'flickr' photostream)



 
Celebrity Antiques Road Trip: Screen Caps 30 October, 2011

Screen caps from Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, with Toyah and Tony Blackburn. Click on these for larger versions. This is available to watch at 'BBC iPlayer' until Thursday evening.

 
From Sheep Farming... Manchester: Live! Tonight!! 30 October, 2011
Toyah treats Manchester Academy to the delights of 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' tonight...

 
I Was A Teenage Toyah Fan: Available Very Soon 29 October, 2011
Chris Limb's 'I Was A Teenage Toyah Fan' looks likely to be published this week.

The book will be available to buy initially from Lulu.com, priced £9.99, and also from Amazon a couple of weeks later.

From 1986 until its closure, Chris ran the official Toyah Willcox Fan Club Tellurian as well as designing and selling merchandise during Toyah's extensive tours in the early nineties.

This is not that story.

This is the story of what happened before that and one that begins on a dark winter's night at the tail end of 1979 when a nerdy 14 year old boy watched an episode of the BBC detective drama Shoestring and realised that there was more to life than Blake's Seven/Star Wars crossover fanzines...
 
I Was A Teenage Toyah Fan: Newsy Bits! 29 October, 2011
• Visit 'I Was A Teenage Toyah Fan' at Facebook for lots of new content, including great new photos of the book's author, Chris Limb, with Toyah. (Photo © Dean Stockings)

• ISBN acquired and now making significant inroads into the book layout using InDesign...

• Layout nearly complete! Once that's done I need to submit the PDF to the publisher then wait for them to send me a proof copy to check before it's officially made available.

• Everything finished and all files uploaded to lulu.com - all I need to do now is approve publication when I receive the proof copy (probably on Tuesday) and it will available to buy.

URL to be posted here as soon as I have it. The book will be available on Lulu straight away and Amazon after a couple of weeks.

• Updates regarding release date, length and price added to FAQs

 
New Toyah Single: 21st Century Supersister 29 October, 2011
To coincide with The Power Of Three coming to cinemas, Toyah releases '21st Century Supersister', a song recorded especially for inclusion in the film in which she also stars.

The digital-only single, '21st Century Supersister' will be released on iTunes on Sunday 6 November 2011 ahead of the London premiere of the film at Hampstead Everyman Theatre. The 2-track single release - written by Toyah Willcox & Simon Darlow - features the track written for The Power Of Three and also includes a "digital B-side" of the original demo recorded for the album "In The Court Of The Crimson". The digital release will also be available from Play.com, Amazon MP3, 7digital and other digital vendors either on 6 November or shortly thereafter.

SINGLE TRACK LIST
1) 21st Century Supersister (From "The Power Of Three")
2) 21st Century Supersister (Original Demo for "Crimson Queen")

 
The Power Of Three: Premiere 29 October, 2011
Starring Toyah Willcox, Brümilda Van Rensburg & Robin Craig

Who says over 50 is over the hill?

A feel good comedy filmed on location in Belsize Park and Hampstead, The Power of Three reinvents the myth of middle age.

Michelle, Olivia and Lizzie were best friends in university. A team. But that was 30 years ago.

The Power of Three is released on 10th November with a DVD release to follow in January 2012.

• View further info on the film and details of forthcoming screenings,
here.

 
From Sheep Farming... Glasgow & Bristol: Photos 28 October, 2011
Toyah onstage at the Classic Grand, Glasgow on Wednesday night. Also at The Tunnels, Bristol last night. Please click on each for a larger version. These have also been added to Dreamscape's FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Sharon Dickson & Simon Benson for these great photos)


 
Toyah Live 2011: Hits & Surprises, Kinross: Photos 28 October, 2011
Fantastic photos of Toyah during the 'Hits & Surprises' gig at Backstage At The Green, Kinross, Perthshire on Tuesday night. Please click on each for a larger version. These have also been added to Dreamscape's 2010 - Gallery page. (Thanks to Sharon Dickson)


 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 28 October, 2011
Brit Icon Toyah Willcox: Get the look with Rimmel: Long before Jessie J there was Toyah, with her amazing bold beauty look.

• Last night's Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, with Toyah and Tony Blackburn, is now available to watch at BBC iPlayer. View here. This airs in Scotland on Saturday and Northern Ireland on Sunday.

Chris MacKenzie Photography: View a collection of great photos of Toyah from Tuesday's gig at Backstage At The Green, Kinross, here.

Wales Online: Preview: Toyah, Globe, Cardiff. View
here.

• Gothzilla have covered 'Ieya'. It's good that Toyah is influencing other bands, but maybe some songs just shouldn't be covered? Listen at 'You Tube',
here.

The Press: Antiques show filmed in York to be aired tonight. View
here.

 
Toyah on TV & Radio 28 October, 2011
Celebrity Antiques Road Trip : BBC2 Scotland - Saturday 29th October : 3.45pm
Celebrity Antiques Road Trip : BBC2 Northen Ireland - Sunday 30th October : 5.00pm
Episode 4 of 10. Tony Blackburn and Toyah Willcox take to the road with antiques experts Charlie Ross and Charles Hanson. Their journey starts in the historic town of York and ends up with an auction in Stanstead, Essex.

Dirty Sexy Funny: Olivia Lee : Comedy Central Extra - Sunday 30th October : 2.00am
Olivia Lee stars in this hidden camera sketch show. New and made exclusively for Comedy Central. Deaf Bubba makes a mess of things at the marina and Elaine Caine meets Toyah Willcox.

Bargain Hunt Famous Finds : BBC1 - Saturday 5th November : 1.45pm
Toyah Willcox v Kiki Dee. Rock chicks Toyah Willcox and Kiki Dee have shared the same bill in the past, but never for bargain hunting. The two women, both queens of the music business for over a quarter of a century, try to prove who has the best talent at spotting bargains. They both search an antique centre in Farnham, Surrey for treasures which will then be sold at an auction in Chiswick.

Bargain Hunt Famous Finds : Home - Tuesday 8th November : 9.00am
Bargain Hunt Famous Finds : Home +1- Tuesday 8th November : 10.00am
Toyah Willcox and Kiki Dee go bargain hunting.

The Lee Mack Show : BBC Radio 4 Extra - Friday 11th November : 11.00pm
Episode 6 of 5. The sharp comedian presents stand-up, sketches and music. From April 2005. Starring: Toyah Willcox, Angela McHale, Steve Brown.

Dirty Sexy Funny: Olivia Lee : Comedy Central Extra - Wed 23rd November : 3.05am
Olivia Lee stars in this hidden camera sketch show. New and made exclusively for Comedy Central. Deaf Bubba makes a mess of things at the marina and Elaine Caine meets Toyah Willcox.

 
From Sheep Farming... Hoylake, Wirral: More Photos 24 October, 2011
A couple more great photos of Toyah last night at Jack Rabbit Slims in Hoylake. Click on each for larger. These have also been added to Dreamscape's FSF-A Gallery page. Toyah tweeted today: "Hoylake rocked! So enjoying this tour, I'm rediscovering myself". (Thanks to Myke Crombleholme)

 
Meols Park News: 80s Idol Toyah Visits Meols Park 24 October, 2011
Another celebrity visits Meols Park.

This time it’s Toyah Willcox who took time out to visit, from her gig at Jack Rabbit Slims in Hoylake on 23rd October 2011. Toyah said we had done a "Fantastic job in saving the play area". Thanks Toyah.

• View a larger version of the photo
here (click on the photo).
 
Tales Of The Unexpected: Blue Marigold is Back! Today! 24 October, 2011
'Blue Marigold' makes her long awaited comeback today :)

The epsiode of Tales Of The Unexpected, filmed in 1981 and first aired in April of the following year, starring Toyah airs for the first time in a long while today on Sky Arts.

• Click on the screen caps to view larger versions. View the 'TV Times' interview with Toyah, that was published in April 1982, when this episode of Tales of The Unexpected first aired on ITV, here and here.

Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Monday 24th October : 1.00pm
Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Tuesday 25th October : 2.00am

Blue Marigold. Series 5, episode 1. Dropped by her agency for her diva-like behaviour, supermodel Marigold's mental health deteriorates. Years later, she plots a comeback. Director: Giles Foster. Starring: Toyah Willcox, Ralph Bates, Sharon Duce, Helen Fraser, Billy Hamon, Edward Jewesbury.

 
From Sheep Farming... Hoylake, Wirral: Photos 24 October, 2011
Toyah onstage last night at Jack Rabbit Slims in Hoylake, Wirral. Please click on each for larger photos. These have also been added to Dreamscape's FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Myke Crombleholme for these great photos)

 
Dexter Brown: Thunder In The Mountains 24 October, 2011
This is amazing. Dexter Brown, the artist responsible for the iconic painting on the cover of the 1980 album 'Toyah! Toyah! Toyah!', caught Toyah live last night and gave her this gift. Toyah tweeted: "Artist dexter brown came 2 C show, he left me a drawing from Thunder In The Mountains video shoot!" (and a rare TITM photo). Click below to view in full. (Photo © Toyah Willcox)

 
From Sheep Farming... Redhill, Surrey: Photos 24 October, 2011
Toyah onstage last Tuesday at the Harlequin Theatre, Redhill. The "stage invasion" gig of the tour ;) Please click on each for larger photos. These, and more, have also been added to Dreamscape's FSF-A Gallery page. (Thanks to Liz Smith for these great photos)


 
Four More From Toyah @ 30: The Furious Futures 23 October, 2011
In this petrified forest, to our victims we're the prey... 'The Furious Futures' from the mighty Four More From Toyah EP, just about to celebrate it's 30th anniversary. Click below for a larger version. Photograph © Gered Mankowitz (1981)

 
Ophelia's Shadow/Kneeling At The Shrine 23 October, 2011
As someone at Facebook recently noted, 2011 isn't just the 30th anniversary of 'Anthem'. This year is also the 20th anniversary of the release of two other albums from Toyah's eclectic and amazing music career: 'Ophelia's Shadow' and 'Kneeling At The Shrine' by Sunday All Over The World. Both incredible albums but 'Ophelia's Shadow' especially showcases Toyah's voice and songwriting and drives home, yet again, that she is in the same league as Kate, Siouxsie, Tori et al. Click on each for further details on both albums at the fantastic Official Toyah Discography.

 
From Sheep Farming... Wolverhampton: Photo 23 October, 2011
Toyah onstage last night at the Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton. The 16th 'From Sheep Farming...' gig of the tour. Toyah tweeted: "My GOD Wolverhampton was mighty. Totally rocking to the rafters! Thank you!" This has also been added to the FSF-A Gallery. (Thanks again to Paul Stephens)

 
I Was A Teenage Toyah Fan 23 October, 2011
Wykehurst Revisited: Short clip of cine film shot by Bob from the day we discovered the Big Grey Building in 1985. Uploaded to support the forthcoming book "I Was A Teenage Toyah... View here. (Of particular interest to fans of 'The Blue Meaning')

Extract from Chapter Six: Mexico was amazing but I was so upset to be missing the party. I sent postcards on a regular basis back to Toyah and the rest of the gang care of the Mermaid Theatre. I managed to put a Toyah spin on my holiday... Read more
here.
 
The Corn Is Green 23 October, 2011
Will this ever be released on standalone DVD in the UK...? The legendary Katharine Hepburn, the legendary George Cukor, the legendary Toyah Willcox... View more The Corn Is Green info here.

 
The BedBugs Rock Band: Fave Bands 23 October, 2011
Our latest favorite album, by consensus, is "Sugar Rush" by The Humans. The Humans are British - their star is singer/performer phenomenon, Toyah Willcox. Her hubby, guitar legend Robert Fripp, plays on the entire album. This is one worth buying. There are some videos on YouTube. "Sea of Size is 1st video release:

Toyah Willcox is one of the most amazing female performers on the planet. We love her - and wish she would develop her American audience more - young American girls could use a role model like her. If you want to read a bio that will leave you feeling that you have never accomplished anything - the Toyah Willcox "Wiki.".

Definitely THE best new album out there right now - just released.

 
Be Proud Be Loud (Be Heard): Soul Deep 22 October, 2011
You! Give! Me! Fire!! This month 29 years ago Toyah entered the UK charts with their 12th single, 'Be Proud Be Loud (Be Heard), the song that became Toyah's personal motto, closing numerous fanclub letters, web missives and blogs over the years.

'Be Proud Be Loud (Be Heard)' was written by Toyah and Joel Bogen, as was the b-side 'Laughing With The Fools'. Neither were available on any CD album until the release of 'Proud, Loud & Heard: The Best Of Toyah' in 1998, the hits compilation that took inspiration, and its title, from the buoyantly brilliant 'Be Proud Be Loud (Be Heard)'.

Listen to the world premiere of the single on BBC Radio One's Studio B15 in late Summer 1982,
here; watch Toyah perform the single, on Top Of The Pops in October 1982, at 'YouTube' here; and listen to the excellent b-side, 'Laughing With The Fools', via a fan-made video for the song, at 'YouTube' here.

 
Classic Toyah: Be Proud Be Loud (Be Picasso) 22 October, 2011
An amazing image for a flawless pop single... A Twillxtastic moment in time! (Huge thanks to Andi)

 
Dreamscape News Archive: September 2011 22 October, 2011
Dreamscape News for September 2011 has now been archived. Visit our News Archive below.

 
Artsbeat: Put The Needle On The Record 22 October, 2011
'Put The Needle On The Record', the book celebrating the artwork of vinyl singles from the 1980s, including Toyah's 12" 'Ieya' cover, was published recently. 'Artsbeat' have a great article on the book, plus an interview with the author Matthew Chojnacki.

New Book Covers the Covers of the 1980s
Before music came in clouds it came in sleeves. For the iTunes generation this may come as a surprise, but to buy music in the pre-digital era required a trip to a store, where rows of labeled bins held vinyl discs in a variety of formats: long-playing albums, 45s, 12-inch singles. These records, as they were called, came in paper sleeves that were covered front and back with artwork.

In a new book, “Put the Needle on the Record: The 1980s at 45 Revolutions Per Minute” (Schiffer), Matthew Chojnacki argues that the perfect union of pop music and visual art took place in the 1980s, when big-hair metalheads and New Wave androgynes shared the top of the singles charts. The book is an annotated compilation of selected record covers of singles released in the 80s that were culled from Mr. Chojnacki’s own collection of more than 5,000 7- and 12-inch singles.

• View the full article at the 'Artsbeat' website,
here. Visit the 'Put The Needle On The Record' Facebook page, here.

 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 22 October, 2011
• A northern screening of The Power Of Three takes place at the Cornerhouse Cinema, Manchester on Sunday 13th November. Ticket details here. Visit The Power Of Three Facebook page, here.

• Following on from the recent 'She'/British Museum video, comes another interesting use of a classic Toyah song: A kaleidoscopic view of Camden Lock Market to the sounds of 'Neon Womb'. View here.

• Further info on Celebrity Antiques Road Trip: It airs on Thursday 27th October on BBC2 (England & Wales) and BBC HD at 7pm; Saturday 29th October on BBC2 Scotland at 3.45pm; and BBC2 Northern Ireland on Sunday 30th October at 5pm. View the BBC Programmes page
here.

MCR Scene Wipe: All things tagged as: Pop Punk: Gig: Toyah. View
here.

 
Classic Toyah: Rare 1980 Photo 22 October, 2011
A very rare photo of Toyah... possibly from around the same time as the Fin Costello photo session from late 1980? It's great anyway! View our 1980 Gallery page here. (Thanks to Damon King)

 
Stourbridge News: Toyah On Song For A Mystery Tour 21 October, 2011
Punk princess Toyah Willcox is this year marking the 30th anniversary of her hit single It's A Mystery and platinum album Anthem.

As well as clocking up 13 Top 40 singles, Toyah has recorded 20 albums, written two books, appeared in more than 40 stage plays, made ten feature films and presented hundreds of television programmes.

The versatile star’s latest tour, called Sheep Farming To Anthem: Classics Revisited Live, will feature all the hits plus less well-known songs from her earliest shows in the late 70s and early 1980s.

Toyah’s diverse TV career includes programming not normally associated with the anarchic punk movement, she has presented shows ranging from The Good Sex Guide Late to Songs Of Praise. She returned to her musical roots in 2002 and is currently on the road with her band - The Humans.

Catch Toyah at The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton on Saturday October 22.

 
Wirral Globe: Toyah Is Back In Wirral This Weekend 21 October, 2011
Punk princess Toyah Willcox returns to Jack Rabbit Slims in Hoylake for a greatest hits show this weekend.

Sunday's show, which starts at 8.30pm, follows a sell-out performance at the venue last year.

Supporting her on the night will be singer / guitarist Steve Wale and ukulele player Gerald Williams.

In a career spanning 30 years, Toyah has had 13 top 40 singles, recorded 20 albums, written two books, appeared in more than 40 stage plays, made ten feature films and presented such diverse television programmes as Watchdog and Songs Of Praise.

Tickets for Sunday's show are from www.rspromotickets.co.uk or 07970 990774.
 
Official Toyah: A Message From Toyah 20 October, 2011
WE'RE THE LORDS OF THE JUNGLE...

I'm REALLY enjoying the
Sheep Farming To Anthem Tour as the band & I make our way around the UK for the final gigs of 2011. The show really is a true celebration of thirty years of the music and the images.

It's been amazing recalling some of my own memories attached to each song but also bringing them to you the faithful fans and new followers who weren't even born when I wrote Bird In Flight!!! I think this live show is the best way to mark the anniversary of Anthem and the material which came in the run up to that album. Hopefully you've seen some a taster of how the show looks with the videos we put up on
Toyah YouTube TV Channel.

Thanks for such a great reaction to the songs and the costumes and I really hope you can join me at the gigs for the remainder of the 2011 tour. I urge you to buy tickets in advance online for the remaining gigs as this helps us schedule even more gigs in and shows there is demand for this music and more Toyah shows. All the details are on the GIGS page of my website to click and buy. I am also doing signings of albums & t-shirts before each gig when the venue open the doors. See you on the tour. :-)

Be proud, be loud, be live!
love Toyah x

PS
Pete Bush from the original Sheep Farming band came to see the show and said the songs sounded "better than ever" :-)

FROM SHEEP FARMING TO ANTHEM TOUR 2011: REMAINING DATES

21 Oct Hertford / Corn Exchange
Tickets
22 Oct Wolverhampton/ Slade Rooms
Tickets
23 Oct Hoylake / Jack Rabbit Slims
Tickets
26 Oct Glasgow / Classic Grand
Tickets
27 Oct Bristol / Tunnels
Tickets
28 Oct Cardiff / Globe
Tickets
30 Oct Manchester / Manchester Academy
Tickets
03 Nov Leamington Spa / Assembly
Tickets
05 Nov London / o2 Academy Islington
Tickets

(Photos © Chris Jepson/Official Toyah)

 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 20 October, 2011
Woman: There's a, very, small Toyah news article, on the 'FSF-A' tour playing Nottingham, in this week's 'Woman' magazine.

Wirral News: Toyah Willcox is returning to rock Hoylake this weekend – and you could be there. View
here.

Times24: 'Toyah appearing at Hertford Corn Exchange': Ahead of her forthcoming pantomime appearance in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in St Albans, 70s and 80s singer Toyah is squeezing in a few live dates revisting her earliest work. View
here. Toyah is also mentioned in another 'Times24' article here.

Derbyshire Times: 'Castles ghostly secrets revealed': Toyah is namnechecked in this article. View
here.
 
Quadrophenia: Blu-ray Release 18 October, 2011
The iconic Quadrophenia finally receives a Blu-ray release next month. It will be available to buy from 14th November. The artwork to the left is "subject to change".

"We are the mods, we are the mods, we are, we are, we are the mods!"

Special Features:
Feature Commentary
A Way of Life: Making Quadrophenia
On Location with Franc Roddam
Original Trailer

London 1964: two rival youth cults emerge - the mods and the rockers - with explosive consequences. For Jimmy (Phil Daniels) and his sharp-suited, pill-popping, scooter-riding mates, being a mod is a way of life. It's their generation.

Together they head off to Brighton for an orgy of drugs, thrills and violent confrontation against the rockers. Jimmy never wants to stray from his maxim: "I don't wanna be like everybody else, that's why I'm a mod, see?" Will Jimmy emerge a hero or will he be disillusioned by his way of life?

Actors: Phil Daniels, Leslie Ash, Sting, Mark Wingett, Philip Davis, Garry Cooper, Toyah Willcox, Trevor Laird, Ray Winstone, Michael Elphick, Timothy Spall, Gary Shail, Kate Williams, Kim Neve, Benjamin Whitrow & Daniel Peacock.

 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces!: Blog Special 18 October, 2011
• Two new articles on Derek Jarman's The Tempest have been published this week:

Fandor: 'Radical Shakespeare: The Alchemy of Derek Jarman’s The Tempest'. View
here.

The Idler: 'Shakespeare'. View
here.

Nelson's Column: An interesting new blog about Toyah. View here.

Your Older Brother's Music Blog: Talk Toyah and The Humans in their recent 'ThURGHsday! #3 - Toyah Willcox' post. View
here.

 
Company Magazine: Women Who Rock... 17 October, 2011
A great mini-feature on Toyah is included in 'Company' magazine's new "Women Who Rock" article.

As we count down to the BRIT Awards 2012, we judge the top ten British female singers who have changed music forever...

Women Who Rock: Toyah Willcox

With her flame-red, blunt-cut hair, extreme make-up and matching attitude, Toyah Willcox was doing the edgy vocalist thing before Jessie J and Florence were even born. After emerging from the UK punk scene, she cut her teeth starring in cult classics like Jubilee and Quadrophenia (check out its original take on this season’s Mod trend!). In the 80s, she found her niche in the pop charts, where her feisty personality, unique dress sense and backcombed hair established her as Britain’s edgier female popstar, without terrifying the hell out of everyone. "I LOVED Toyah’s look and used to raid my Mum’s make-up bag to try to copy her," says Company’s Editor Victoria White.

Long before Lady Gaga got out the meat cleaver, Toyah was daring to be different in stage outfits ranging from androgynous metallic suits to PVC dominatrix dresses. She also ripped up the beauty rule book, and was unafraid to team bold lips, eyes and cheeks.

• Read the full feature at the 'Company' magazine website,
here.
 
Tales Of The Unexpected: Blue Marigold 17 October, 2011
Sky Arts have recently been repeating Tales Of The Unexpected and they finally reach Series 5 soon. The episode starring Toyah, 'Blue Marigold', airs in one week's time. (Thanks to Andi)

Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Monday 24th October : 1.00pm
Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Tuesday 25th October : 2.00am

Blue Marigold. Series 5, episode 1. Dropped by her agency for her diva-like behaviour, supermodel Marigold's mental health deteriorates. Years later, she plots a comeback. Director: Giles Foster. Starring: Toyah Willcox, Ralph Bates, Sharon Duce, Helen Fraser, Billy Hamon, Edward Jewesbury.

• View the 'TV Times' interview with Toyah, that was published in April 1982, when this episode of Tales of The Unexpected first aired on ITV, here and here.

 
From Sheep Farming To Anthem: Catch Up 17 October, 2011
Toyah played a trio of 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' gigs, last Thursday through to Saturday, taking in The Brook, Southampton, The Factory, Porth and Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham-By-Sea.

Click on the photo to the left, Toyah onstage in Shoreham on Saturday night, for a larger version. (Thanks to Paul Stephens for the photo) Toyah tweeted on Sunday: "Ropetackle possibly one of the best Toyah gigs ever! It was glorious. thank you".

View Toyah performing 'Bird in Flight' at The Brook,
here. View Toyah performing 'Jungles of Jupiter' at the Ropetackle Arts Centre, here.

The next 'FSF-A' date is this Tuesday, at the Harlequin Theatre in Redhill, Surrey. Ticket details
here.

• Visit the official 'FSF-A' page here. View Toyah's upcoming gigs itinerary here. View Dreamscape's 'FSF-A' section here, and our dedicated gallery page, here.

 
The Humans: Sugar Rush UK: More Photos 17 October, 2011
More photos of The Humans from the 'Sugar Rush' UK tour dates earlier this month. 1/2. The Public, West Bromwich, 3-6. The Flowerpot, Derby. Please click on each for a larger version. All of these, and more, have been added to the 2010 - gallery page. (Thanks to Angus Turner for 1-3, and Michael O'Brien for 4-6)


 
Studio Magic: 'Power Of Three' Review 17 October, 2011
A new review of The Power Of Three from the October issue of 'Studio Magic' magazine.

A recipe for a chick-flick of a mature essence. When three friends reunite at a fiftieth birthday celebration they are keen to keep up appearances, but the pretence quickly runs its course, setting the gears in motion for events that will change the women's lives for the better. The Power Of Three is a delightful anecdote about friendship, perseverance and hope, that celebrates the strength of the older woman.

• View a larger version of the review
here. Read further details about the release of The Power Of Three at The British Board of Film Classification, here.
 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 17 October, 2011
Vive Le Rock: 'Toyah UK Tour': Toyah is on tour this month. Look out for an interview with her in Nov 19th Vive Le Rock. Visit 'Vive Le Rock' here.

• A clever use of, the wonderful, 'She' from 'The Blue Meaning': For those with a strong constitution: A dark voyage through the Mummy Collection of the British Museum. Music "She" Toyah Willcox (1980). View at 'You Tube'
here.

• A very rare version of the 'Anthem' picture disc has recently appeared at eBay. Not sure if this was a test pressing or simply a mistake. View here. (Thanks to Andi)

STV: 'Terry Wogan and host of stars lined up for Celebrity Antiques Road Trip'. View
here.

Glamour Dick: Wild Man: It´s a bit Bowie, it´s a bit Toyah, a teensie bit Peter Gabriel - but it´s mostly what she does best - Kate Bush-music. Lovely layering and looping! View here.

Click Press: 'The National Trust begins search for the nation’s favourite walk'. View here.

Surrey Today: 'Iconic Star Set To Shine'. View here.

 
Toyah @ Dingwalls 1979: Rare Photos 17 October, 2011
A few brilliant and rare photos of Toyah, taken on 'The Resurrection Tour' at Camden Dingwalls on 27th March 1979. Click on these for larger versions. (Thanks to Andi for the photos)

 
Toyah on TV 17 October, 2011
Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Monday 24th October : 1.00pm
Tales Of The Unexpected : Sky Arts 2 - Tuesday 25th October : 2.00am
Blue Marigold. Series 5, episode 1. Dropped by her agency for her diva-like behaviour, supermodel Marigold's mental health deteriorates. Years later, she plots a comeback. Director: Giles Foster. Starring: Toyah Willcox, Ralph Bates, Sharon Duce, Helen Fraser, Billy Hamon, Edward Jewesbury.

Dirty Sexy Funny: Olivia Lee : Comedy Central Extra - Tuesday 25th October : 1.35am
Olivia Lee stars in this hidden camera sketch show. New and made exclusively for Comedy Central. Deaf Bubba makes a mess of things at the marina and Elaine Caine meets Toyah Willcox.

Celebrity Antiques Road Trip : BBC2 - Thursday 27th October : 7.00pm
Episode 4 of 10. Tony Blackburn and Toyah Willcox take to the road with antiques experts Charlie Ross and Charles Hanson. Their journey starts in the historic town of York and ends up with an auction in Stanstead, Essex.
 
Shoestring: Series 1 DVD Artwork 11 October, 2011
The front and back covers of Shoestring Series 1 DVD. The good news is that the four disc set will feature the uncut episodes. BBC DVD/2Entertain have said: "We are releasing the uncut episodes of Series 1. There has been a very small audio edit made, but this has been done without disturbing any footage." Toyah stars in episode nine, 'Find The Lady', of the first series. This long awaited DVD release is available from Monday 17th October.

 
Express & Star: Concert Review: The Humans 10 October, 2011
The Humans: The Public, West Bromwich
Concert review by Lisa O’Brien


There is no doubt that Brummie singer Toyah Willcox enjoyed herself on stage during a very intimate gig in the Black Country.

About 50 people turned up to see the Kings Heath-born singer, actress and writer perform with her other bandmates from The Humans at The Public, in New Street, West Bromwich, last night as part of their Sugar Rush tour.

Promoting their new album with the same name, there was no shortage of hair swinging as the 53-year-old used the stage to her full advantage. Waving her hands around freely and wearing a black dress, overcoat and black boots, she opened the gig strongly with Sugar Rush, followed by Titanium Girl when the bass definitely kicked in.

• Read the full review at the 'Express & Star' website,
here.
 
Midhurst & Petworth Observer: Toyah Celebrates 10 October, 2011
Toyah celebrates landmark anniversary in Southampton and Shoreham

Toyah Willcox goes back to her roots as she celebrates the 30th anniversary of her platinum-selling album Anthem.

She takes in the Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham, on her latest tour - From Sheep Farming To Anthem: Classics Revisited (Saturday, October 15, 8pm). She’s also at The Brook in Southampton on Thursday, October 13 (tickets are £15 on 023 8055 5366 or via www.the-brook.com, doors open 8:00pm, on-stage 9:00pm).

• Read the full article at the 'Midhurst & Petworth Observer' website,
here.
 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 10 October, 2011
• Toyah's most recent 'Gaydar Radio' interview, from June of this year, is still available as a podcast. 'Gaydar Radio' DJ, and longtime Toyah fan, Phil Marriott talks to Toyah about 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem', banana candles, and a whole lot more. Listen here. There's also a complete transcript of the interview here.

• Toyah is mentioned in the In and around Pershore article at the 'Pershore Network' website: Walking through the town, possibly shopping in the high street with its selection of well known shops and unique boutiques, or wandering around it’s year round market, you may also bump into a celebrity, with Toyah Willcox being one of Pershore’s residents. View
here.

• Andi Fraggs supported The Humans at Bush Hall, London last week. View him performing the classic Kate Bush song 'Wow'
here. Andi supports Toyah on seven of the 'FSF-A' dates soon.

Quadrophenia is showing at the Cameo Picturehouse in Edinburgh tomorrow. The Cameo is on Home Street. Showtime is 6pm.
 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Live in West Bromwich: Photo 09 October, 2011
The Humans onstage at the The Public, West Bromwich tonight. The final of three acclaimed live 'Sugar Rush' dates in the UK. Please click on the photo for a larger version. This has also been added to Dreamscape's 2010 - gallery page. (Thanks to Paul Stephens for the great photo)

 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Live in Derby: Photos 09 October, 2011
Photos of The Humans at last night's gig at the Flowerpot in Derby. Click on each photo for a larger version. These, and more, have also been added to Dreamscape's 2010 - gallery page. (Thanks to Ray Sears, pictured below with Toyah, for the great photos)


 
The Humans Live 2011: West BromwichTonight! 09 October, 2011
The Humans play The Public, West Bromwich tonight. Ticket details here. Last night's gig in Derby has been highly praised by fans. There are two great new official Humans photos, by Dean Stockings, here. View official footage of the amazing 'Small Town Psychopath' and 'Playing In The Dark' from Thursday's Bush Hall, London gig by clicking below.

Toyah tweeted this fab photo today: "5 Humans and a bunny". Methinks WillyFred is an honorary Human!

 
The Humans Live 2011: Derby Flowerpot Tonight! 08 October, 2011
The Humans play The Flowerpot, Derby tonight. Ticket details here. There have been rave reviews for Thursday's London gig at Facebook. View a gallery of photos by Dean Stockings from the London concert, here. Full info on Monday's concert podcast filming, taking place in Birmingham, is available here. Vist The Humans' Official website by clicking below (Photo © Dean Stockings)

View The Humans performing 'Fragment Pool' at Bush Hall here. (Thanks to Kate Way). Dreamscape's 2010 - gallery page has been updated with a few photos from the gig. (Thanks again to Paul Stephens & Angus Turner)

 
National Trust: Walking Festival 2011 08 October, 2011
Toyah is participating in the National Trust's Walking Festival 2011.

Singer and performer Toyah tells us why she likes walking at Croome Park in Warwickshire. Tell us about your favourite walk at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walkingfestival. Visit the National Trust website,
here, and click on the caps below to view Toyah talking about her favourite walk.


 
Derby Telegraph: A New High Point For Toyah 07 October, 2011
A new interview with Toyah, published today by the 'Derby Telegraph'.

Why latest musical project's a new high-point for Toyah

Despite a career in showbusiness spanning more than three decades, it's a performance in New York last week that Toyah Willcox cites as her absolute highlight.

The show, on a promotional tour for her band The Humans' second album, was capped off with a standing ovation and almost endless cheers from the adoring crowd.

"That was incredible," says Toyah fondly. "There have been so many amazing moments in my career that I will always look back on fondly but playing in New York City and getting a standing ovation for The Humans is at the top."

That tour of the east coast of the USA was a precursor to a trek around the UK, which sees The Humans visit The Flowerpot in Derby tomorrow night.

• Read the full interview at 'This is Derbyshire'
here.
 
Official Toyah: The Humans Special Live Annoucement 07 October, 2011
Thank you for your wonderful support of the new album SUGAR RUSH and HUMANS tour. I am pleased to let you know that on Monday 10 October you can gain entry to Birmingham HMV Library at 3pm with your HUMANS ticket stub (from Bush Hall, Derby or West Brom) for HUMANS gig filming for podcast. Toyah x

Tickets are available for this weekend's tour dates at:

SAT 8 OCT DERBY Flowerpot 01332 834438 /
Tickets
SUN 9 OCT WEST BROMWICH The Public 0121 533 7161 /
Tickets
 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Live in London: Photos 07 October, 2011
More photos from last night's concert at Bush Hall, London. Click on either for larger version. (Thanks to Angus Turner for these photos of The Humans)

 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Live in London: Photo 06 October, 2011
The Humans onstage at the Bush Hall, London tonight. The first of three live 'Sugar Rush' dates in the UK. Please click on the photo for a larger version. (Thanks to Paul Stephens for the photo)

 
The Humans Newsy Bits & Pieces! 06 October, 2011
• Another great review of the new 'Sugar Rush' CD, this one from American magazine 'In Tune'. 8th October 2011 issue. (Thanks to the Official Toyah Facebook)

• The Humans play the first of their UK 'Sugar Rush' tour dates tonight, at the Bush Hall, London.

• Confirmed Yesterday: As well as Sunday's signing session at The Public in West Bromwich, there will also be Sugar Rush album signing sessions, 7.30-8pm after the doors open (but before the support start) at Bush Hall, Thur 6 Oct and at Derby, Sat 8 Oct). T-shirts & CDs will be on sale at both.

• A surprise Humans related news announcement, "an exclusive opportunity in Birmingham", will be made this coming Monday (or possibly late Sunday): Toyah tweeted yesterday: "Rehearsing set for BUSH HALL, it is ROCKING! Keep ur ticket stubs"

• A new photo session for The Humans took place today: Toyah tweeted earlier today: "Just done HUMANS photo shoot. Very architectural. & Humans tour offer is in for 2012......we are thrilled!"
 
Official Toyah: October 2011 Blog 05 October, 2011
Toyah's October Blog is now online at www.toyahwillcox.com. Click below to go there.

 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Tour + Album Signing 05 October, 2011
The Humans will be doing a special pre-gig album signing session at The Public, West Bromwich this coming Sunday from 6pm. Sugar Rush album CDs & T-shirts on sale too. View details here.

Andi Fraggs has just been announced as support act to The Humans at Bush Hall, London. Howard James Kenny is also playing this date as well as Derby Flowerpot and West Bromwich The Public.

 
In Cumbria: Brilliant Support For Cumbria Pride 05 October, 2011
'Brilliant' support for Cumbria Pride event in Carlisle

Hundreds descended on the Swallow Hilltop Hotel in Carlisle to celebrate Cumbria Pride – the first festival of its kind in the county. Visitors and traders travelled from as far as central Scotland, Yorkshire and Cornwall to attend the early hours of Saturday’s colourful event with many more expected to flock later in the day.

All 1,500 free tickets had been snapped up before it opened and free buses were provided by Cumbria Coaches to shuttle people between the venue and the city centre

Toyah Willcox performed a four-song set before heading off to Outrageous Cabaret Bar in English Street for the after-show party. The audience lapped up her songs – Echo Beach, It’s A Mystery, her latest record Fallen and I Want To Be Free - which she penned more than 40 years ago when she was just 12.

 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 05 October, 2011
• Toyah's 'Gaydio' interview aired last Sunday evening on The Loop. Read a full transcript of it at 'The Toyah Willcox Interview Archive' here.

Matlock Mercury: Hot Stuff From Flowerpot Bands: On Saturday, October 8, the King Street venue welcomes The Humans, the alt-rock outfit featuring former chart favourite turned actress/singer Toyah Willcox. View here.

 
The Humans: Sugar Rush Tour: Update 03 October, 2011
The Humans live dates in Manchester, Cardiff and Sheffield have been postponed until further notice. Refunds are available from point of purchase. The Humans look forward to playing Bush Hall London, Derby and West Brom. Toyah tweeted: "I can't wait for humans shows. Reaction 2 album is fabulous. Big :-( & big sorry 4 having 2 postpone some. Looking 2 reschedule for 2012. Toyah"

• You can hear full-length previews of 'Pebble' and the stunning 'Small Town Psychopath', both from the, just released, 'Sugar Rush' album, at Soundcloud now. Both songs also feature in the set list for the 'Sugar Rush' Tour. Click above to visit Toyah's Soundcloud page.

 
Official Toyah: The Humans Kick Off UK Tour 01 October, 2011
THE HUMANS KICK OFF UK TOUR AFTER TAKING NYC BY STORM

After 4-star album reviews, and standing ovations in New York, USA for their east Coast tour, Bill Rieflin, Toyah Willcox and Chris Wong hit the road in the UK for the SUGAR RUSH TOUR. The new material which will be heard live on this tour combines haunting soundscapes, edgy experiments and sweet melodies. Toyah has described Sugar Rush as the energy of original Toyah meets space punk crossed with American grunge. Pearl Jam and Soundgarden have recently let Bill Rieflin know that the band's debut album We Are The Humans as one of their favourite albums. A recent review also described the album as "that record we might have gotten if Tori Amos and Trent Reznor had ever come together for a full album."

The Humans live show has won critical acclaim and a standing ovation in New York on 27 Sept. The Humans now bring this tour to the UK with a chance to see the performances in intimate venues in the UK. For full box office ticket links click here or go to
www.thehumansofficial.com

THU 6 OCT LONDON Bush Hall 08444 771 000
SAT 8 OCT DERBY Flowerpot 01332 834438
SUN 9 OCT WEST BROMWICH The Public 0121 533 7161

NEW YORK GIG REVIEW:
Songs like Fragment Pool and Pebble had a flow to it that drew you in and held your attention. Sea Of Size was one of the highlights of the set - a piece that drifted through the air and oozed a quiet sort of power. Wong, Rieflin, and the Igor with no last name created an interlocking tapestry for Toyah Willcox to glide over. Most impressive. Quicksilver and Telekinesis, both from the 1st Humans disc, were audio fairy tales for adults - bizarre little tales of life, slightly skewed. Twisted Soul led to the massively electric Put A Woman On The Moon, and the show ended with the caffeine rush of Demigod. The fun romp that was their cover of These Boots Are Made For Walkin' served as encore. An incredible evening! Bring this band back as soon as humanly possible!

SUGAR RUSH ALBUM REVIEWS:
"Sugar Rush is the group's second release, and it is a big one. This record sound like it could have escaped from the John Cale archives. With the attitude of Tori Amos' best work (but not the raw emotion), Toyah's voice lays over these compositions that sound almost like Trent Reznor on The Fragile."

"A hybrid of haunting and sweet, this album intrigues from start to finish. The Humans’ new 13-track album, Sugar Rush, is experimental, edgy in the simplest of ways, and nothing you can ready yourself for. It’s the musical equivalent of a drive through a part of town you’ve never seen, and just when you think you’ve got the area figured out, you pass a sign welcoming you to the nearby town with restaurants of a different vibe, and even the sky looks a bit different. But don’t consider driving back now, because you’re on a one-way and the scenery stays intriguing."

 
October 2011: From Sugar Rush To Classics Revisited! 01 October, 2011
Welcome to October: A month, definitely, of two halves: Half One is all about The Humans, the new 'Sugar Rush' album and the 'Sugar Rush' UK tour. Half Two is so crammed full of 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem'... so many classic songs, iconic Melissa Caplan outfits and quintessential Toyah moments... that it's difficult to move in there... in a good way!

The US 'Sugar Rush' dates have been critically acclaimed, with 4-star album reviews, and standing ovations along the way, and the UK tour is definitely not to be missed. Who can put it better than Toyah? She tweeted yesterday: "Sugar Rush stormed the usa, can't wait for u 2 hear it. Its like original toyah meets space punk". How can anyone resist that? The new material, which will be heard live on the 'Sugar Rush' tour, combines haunting soundscapes, edgy experiments and sweet melodies. Please click on the above promo flyers for full details on how to see both tours. Unfortunately The Humans' Glasgow date at King Tuts has been postponed by the promoters, but there are still six English/Welsh 'Sugar Rush' concerts to go to.

 
Sugar Rush: CD/Download Ordering Details 01 October, 2011
'Sugar Rush', the second album by The Humans, is released on Sunday 2nd October in the UK, Europe and Rest of the World (basically everywhere except US/Canada where it's already available).

The album will be available as a download, via
iTunes (this includes bonus Digital Artwork Booklet), Amazon, Play etc. The UK CD release can be purchased from Burning Shed, and will also be available at each date of the 'Sugar Rush' UK tour (as will the t-shirt).

'Sugar Rush' is already available on CD and download for those of you in the US/Canada. Download via
iTunes or Amazon. Buy the CD at The Omega Order (click below) or Amazon.

View more comprehensive details on the release(s), including info on the album's bonus material and much more, at Toyah's Official Facebook here. Details of how UK fans can buy t-shirts online will be announced soon, so no need to buy on import unless you really want to :)

 
You Tubing With The Humans in NYC #3 01 October, 2011
More great footage from The Humans' recent NYC gig: Watch/listen to them perform 'This Reasoning', 'Fragment Pool' and 'Sea of Size'.

 
Progsheet: The Humans NY: Concert Review 01 October, 2011
Another excellent review of The Humans NY concert.

One of my "bucket list" artists I've been hoping to see in my lifetime was Toyah Willcox. This show was my opportunity, as she made her first ever live show in NYC with the band the Humans. She and they did not disappoint. Bill Rieflin and Chris Wong round out the Humans, and they were joined by live guest Human Igor for this show. Before I go further, great to see Tony Geballe nearby enjoying the show! Sugar Rush, the title track of their 2nd album, opened the set. Wong and Rieflin played dense layers of interlocking figures on their basses as Igor triggered buzzes, clicks, and beeps while adding patterns on guitar. Willcox added the technicolor to these dark textures - her voice soaring, flying, swooping passionately...

• Read the full review, and see some great photos of the gig, at the 'Progsheet' website,
here.
 
Punk Globe Magazine: Toyah! Toyah! Toyah! 01 October, 2011
Toyah's 'Brave New World' image is included on the cover of the October 2011 online issue of 'Punk Globe' magazine. Inside is Jimi LaLumia's great new article on Toyah. Click below left to visit 'Punk Globe' and right to read Jimi's article "Toyah!: 30 Years & Counting". Visit Jimi's Facebook here.

 
Toast Magazine: What's On: The Humans 01 October, 2011
Any band that garners comparisons to the White Stripes mixing it up with Lou Reed and Kate Bush immediately grabs our attention, especially when they can count post-punk survivor (and Teletubbies narrator) Toyah Willcox among their number. Curious folk will be able to see if these musical comparisons are accurate when the band arrive at Corp this month.

Visit the 'Toast Magazine' website,
here.
 
Toyah Newsy Bits & Pieces! 01 October, 2011
In Cumbria: 2,500 set to attend Cumbria Pride festival in Carlisle: The colourful festival, to celebrate the area’s lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) community, will take place tomorrow. The free event at the Swallow Hilltop Hotel will see 1980s star Toyah Willcox take to the stage. View the full report here.

• Not quite amazing quality but there's already footage of Toyah's Isle of Man 'From Sheep Farming To Anthem' set at 'You Tube'. View 'Thunder In The Mountains, here, and 'It's A Mystery', here.

• View a great collection of Toyah live at Manchester Pride photos
here. (Thanks to Michael O'Brien)

Elbo.WS: Music News: The Humans Release "Sugar Rush". View here.

• 'Vintage TV' is starting to show footage they recorded at this year's Rewind Festival at Henley. The first programme airs next Friday, 7th October, at 7.45pm. It focuses on Hue & Cry.

• Steve Steinman reminisces about The Devil Queen, and Toyah, in a new interview with 'The Enquirer'. View
here.

 

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