Vicious Pink Interview

 

This may be unusual, considering Gay French Riviera is supposed to be about everything LGBTQ related in the Cote d’Azur, but there is a couple of unexpected connections. Without question though, the 80s group, Vicious Pink has always been a hot favorite in the gay nightclub scene.

As many a longtime fan of the 80s band, Vicious Pink. One evening, playing around on one of my Instagram accounts, I took a clip from a vintage fashion show in Paris and paired it with their song, “I confess”.

Not long after I posted it with the hashtag #viciouspink, the singer Josephine Warden (Jose) of Vicious Pink noticed it. I was thrilled that she simply liked the post.

Over time, our online friendship grew, and I eventually discovered that a new Vicious Pink vinyl, aptly named "Unexpected," would be released in a limited edition by Minimal Wave Records on May 21, 2024.

From there, we connected, and I was fortunate enough to interview both Brian Moss and Jose Warden of Vicious Pink. We discussed their impact on the nightclub scene in the 80s, particularly within the LGBTQ community, as well as their future plans for music.

To jump right in, do you realize just how big of an impact your music has had in the gay community in the 80s and continues on to this day?

Jose: That is such a compliment, the music is always so much better in gay clubs! We started to realize very quickly that the gay crowd was behind us and as we started to play live shows and meet our audience, we knew that a lot of our support came from the gay community. I have always been a fervent supporter of LGBTQ rights and stand solidly at their side.

Your music stands out from the other high energy sounds back then. To friends and myself, it was also Jose’s vocals that helped make what was already forward-thinking music, into something that had a sense of sophistication and erotism. And people took notice, especially in the club scene. Is this something you recognized when first getting out there as well?

Jose: We knew we were different, and we knew that we wouldn’t appeal to everyone, but that was irrelevant, because we appealed to people like us. We were both great clubbers ourselves, so we were right in the midst of it. Good times.

To provide some history to readers. How did the two of you get together musically?

Brian: We met at an alternative night in Leeds 1979 at a pub called The Adelphi, where I was the DJ. We decided to start the band initially for a bit of fun. As we developed, we aimed for success in the clubs and alternative bars with DJ friendly mixes for night clubs, rather than radio friendly commercial hits. There was no internet then, the DJ’s and the night clubs were like the internet of the day, they got your sound out there.

Can you share the story behind the name "Vicious Pink"?

Jose: Me, Brian and Dave wrote some our favorite words down on pieces of paper, turned them upside down and shuffled them about. Then we each choose one of the pieces of paper. On my piece of paper, the word was Vicious, Dave's was Pink and Brian’s was Phenomena. We rearranged them on the floor, to read, ‘Vicious Pink Phenomena’.

And you both also provided backing vocals for Soft Cell at one point? How did that come together?

Jose: One night, Brian and I had gone to a bar in the center of Leeds called Amnesia, to watch my friend, the fabulous performance artist Marc Almond, perform with his new band, Soft Cell, which he had formed with Dave.

I think Anni Hogan was the DJ that night, which was pretty cool as there weren’t many female DJs at the time. About five minutes before Soft Cell were due on- stage Marc asked if we would do some backing vocals for him. “Tonight?”’

I asked, “I don’t know any of the lyrics?” Unperturbed, Marc rushed to the bar, grabbed a pen and a white serviette on which he wrote in big, black, capital letters ‘MISERY, COMPLAINTS, SELF PITY, INJUSTICE. CHIPS ON MY SHOULDER, CHIPS ON MY SHOULDER.’

“Just follow me”, he said.

And we did, all the way to New York, where three months later, in Media Sound Studios, Manhattan, I held onto the same serviette as we recorded, ‘Chips on My Shoulder’ and other songs for ‘Non- Stop Erotic Cabaret,’ Soft Cells debut album.

That’s amazing! What is your typical songwriting process like? Do you start with lyrics or music?

Brian: Usually, music first.

How do you approach production and the use of technology in your music?

Brian: When we started out there were no Music Technology courses, no Midi, it all had to be learned from scratch. That was probably a bonus in some ways, because I had to experiment with all the new equipment, so sometimes there would be a happy accident!

One example: I could sync my Roland BassLine TB303 to the Roland TR606 Drum Machine, via a 5-Pin Din lead, which looks like a Midi lead, but is wired differently. I could also trigger the Arpeggiator on my Roland Juno 60 by connecting a quarter inch jack lead from the TR606 to the Arpeggiator Clock-In on the Juno 60. Then program, for example a tom pattern in the desired rhythm, to send the pulse to trigger the Juno 60, then all 3 were in tempo sync.

This was used for ‘Fetish’, 8:15 To Nowhere and other songs. I also used this for live shows, so no need for tape backing tracks when in use.

I know you played in New York live at the Ritz in 1984. The 80s were such an individualistic and artistic time, especially in New York and London. Who and what were your influences then?

Brian: I loved Kraftwerk, YMO, DAF, Devo, Bowie, John Foxx and many more, but we always wanted to have our own sound, so we didn’t let the love of other artists creep into our music, plus the world already had those great artists.

Do you have any memorable stories from your various live performances?

Jose: We always took a 1960’s mannequin, who we called Lucy, to all our shows as a stage prop. I would dress her up in my clothing. We played The Crocs Club (later, Pink Toothbrush) in Rayleigh, Essex one night, and I dressed Lucy in a tiny black leather miniskirt and black lace top that I had worn the night before at a show in London. After the show, we said ‘hello’ to some people and had a few drinks as usual. When it came to do the loadout of our gear, we found Lucy, still onstage, naked, someone had actually stripped her and stolen my clothes!

How did it feel to achieve success in the 80s music scene?

Brian: We were amazed, because initially we really started Vicious Pink more as a project and mainly for fun. It's a strange feeling at first, just to see people dancing in clubs to our music. I remember going to Area in Manhattan one night and the dance floor was rammed as people danced to, ‘Cccan’t You See’.

What inspired your hit singles like "Cccan't You See" and "Fetish"?

Jose: Youth, lust, passion, sex, desire. We had just reached that age when these things are so much more important than anything else.

Do you realize just how big of a contribution you have made to the electronic music scene?

Brian: We realize it more now due to the feedback we get online and the global audience we can reach through the Internet.

Which of your songs are you most proud of, and why?

Brian: That’s a difficult one, it’s like asking which of the children you like best!

Jose: I’m proud of all of them but my favorite is, ‘Ask Me To Stay’. There is something about it that makes me want to sing along with it when I hear it.

For the audience reading this, what did you both do after you stopped recording in the 80s? People continued to love and desire your music, wanting more. Did it make you want to rethink things in how you produce music for the future?

Brian: I continued recording, writing and producing with Drug Free America into the late 90’s. Then I worked/collaborated with other bands and I didn’t stop writing music. 2003 - 2018 I worked touring with different bands around the UK and Europe doing TM, merch, driving and lots of other on-tour duties. Some of the bands: Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon, It Dies Today and many more and with different styles of music!

A few years ago people were quite excited and pleasantly surprised to see the elusive Jose back in view. It was like a firestorm on the internet about it all. What seemed to be the reasons to get back into the music industry, Jose? The fans are so excited you are back!

Jose: I stopped writing and performing completely, although I kept in touch with what was happening in the music world as I married a music lawyer, and a lot of friends were still in the business. I was only persuaded to come back to it by the wonderful Veronica Vasicka, founder of Minimal Wave records just before ‘West View’, the album she released two years ago.

How has the music industry changed since you first started, and how have you adapted to those changes?

Brian: Less CD sales, vinyl almost dying then making a comeback and now downloads, and streaming added to the mix. Yes, we’ve adapted very well to the internet age, it would have been nice to have it back when we started.

 

Your new LP, ‘Unexpected’, which I absolutely love, offers 10 tracks being released this week. How did you choose the songs for the LP?

Brian: I went through lots of reel to reel tapes and cassettes of our work, then together with the help of my DJ friends Jase Matthaus and Dee Shaw, did the digital rips at Jase’s studio. I then sent copies to Jose and between us we chose the 10 tracks.

My favorites are, So You Want to Love Me?, South Side, Not Your Kind of Girl, Night Drive. Each of the songs on the LP are unique and seem to display your musical experiences from over the years. Much of it I can see being played not only in the nightclubs but also as background in movies.

Brian: I can see that happening too. I hope so.

Are there any songs that stand out to you or are more personal on ‘Unexpected’ that you love?

Jose: It’s perpendicular for me because it takes me right back to the start of it all. It reminds me of our very early days when Brian, Dave and I used to just experiment with sounds and beats, before we even thought about introducing vocals.

What are the plans for Vicious Pink now?

Brian: New Vicious Pink remixes by Paul Dakeyne (Tin Man ‘18 Strings’ fame) to be released. New Vicious Pink songs in the pipeline and maybe some live shows.

What legacy do you hope Vicious Pink will leave in the music world?

Brian: I would like more people to discover us around our beautiful planet and that they continue dancing to and enjoying our music.

Jose: Dance!

In contact with Jose for the interview, she learned that I live in the French Riviera and mentioned she sometimes goes on holiday in the region. So I’m excited to hopefully meet up with her at some point this summer.

To purchase Vicious Pink’s new vinyl LP, ‘Unexpected’, click here:

 

A massive thank you to Vicious Pink for the interview!

French Riviera Real Estate Options Twenty Two

 

With all of the excitement of the 77th Cannes Film Festival, it’s no wonder that the city makes for an attractive investment in real estate which can be a highly attractive proposition for numerous reasons:

1. Global Prestige: Cannes' famous film festival attracts global attention, maintaining demand for luxury accommodations.

2. Year-Round Tourism: Mediterranean climate, beaches, shopping, dining, and nightlife ensure high rental property occupancy.

3. Prime Location: Positioned on the French Riviera with stunning views and connectivity to Nice, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez.

4. Luxury Market: Known for high-end properties and lifestyle, attracting affluent buyers and renters.

5. Cultural and Recreational Amenities: Rich in cultural attractions and activities like yachting and golf, enhancing its appeal.

6. Strong Rental Market: Robust demand from tourists and business travelers provides reliable rental income.

7. Property Value Appreciation: Steady value growth due to limited prime coastal property and high demand.

8. Infrastructure and Accessibility: Modern infrastructure and proximity to Nice Airport ensure easy access.

9. Stable Market: The French real estate market, especially in Cannes, is stable and less volatile.

10. Quality of Life: High quality of life with natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences.

These factors collectively make Cannes a prime location for real estate investment, promising both strong returns and an appealing lifestyle.

With that, here are a few seaside properties on the market:

Cannes
Price: 2,580,000 EUR

Living Area: 70 m2
Terrace: 10 m2
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2

Located in a prestigious building on the Croisette in Cannes. This splendid property of 70m2 is situated on a high floor.

It consists of a large living room facing south, opening onto a 10m2 terrace allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea with the beach directly across the street.

Spacious living room with an open-plan kitchen.
2 bedrooms en suite with shower room.
Completely renovated with top amenities.
1 garage and a cellar complete this property.

Cannes
Price: 3,080,000 EUR

Living Area: 110 m2
Terrace: 11 m2
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3

Situated within a secure residence on the prestigious Croisette, this 110m2 T4 awaits your discovery on the 6th floor.

Its spacious layout encompasses a generous living area, incorporating a lounge, dining area, and open kitchen.

With three bedrooms and three shower rooms, comfort is paramount.

Step onto the 11m2 terrace to revel in panoramic sea views, enhancing the allure of this property.

Meticulously renovated with tasteful, high-quality materials, it exudes elegance.

An added convenience is the included garage.
This residence epitomizes the essence of an ideal location.

Cannes
Price on Application

Living Area: 580 m2
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5

This luxurious duplex penthouse sits at the heart of the Croisette within a secure residence.

A rare gem in Cannes, it has been impeccably renovated by Pellerin, boasting 580m2 spread across two levels with panoramic views of the bay, Mediterranean, and Esterel mountains.

The first floor features a spacious living room, dining area, fully equipped kitchen, and 5 en suite bedrooms, including a lavish master suite.

Ascend to the upper floor to find a grand reception room with an open-plan kitchen overlooking the Mediterranean.

Additionally, a wellness area with Hammam, sauna, and indoor swimming pool adds to the allure of this exceptional property.

Outside, a magnificent 400m2 terrace beckons, offering unparalleled vistas and an ideal space for relaxation and entertainment.

Completing the package are multiple garages and a cellar, ensuring both convenience and luxury for its fortunate residents.


To explore these or other property choices, reach out to Experience The French Riviera for further details.

Monaco Grand Prix Travel Tips

 

One of the biggest weekends of the year is upon us with the upcoming Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix taking place from May 24th to 26th.

Planning on how you will get in and out of Monaco during this time is key to having the best experience.

To accommodate the races and the thousands of fans who attend over the three-day event, numerous roads are closed, most of the car parks are closed, and access to certain areas of the Principality is significantly restricted for both drivers and pedestrians.

Which means, driving into Monaco by car or taxi during the Grand Prix can easily take two or three hours or more.

Big tip: don’t bother driving as once you finally arrive, you will spend almost as much time trying to find a place to park and will likely have to walk a considerable distance to the race tracks.

Public Transit

Bus services have already increased this year due simply to tourist demand. The bus from Nice might take longer than the train, especially with the additional traffic and congestion during the event, but it remains a viable alternative and quite scenic.

There are various bus routes available, including the Ligne Express 80 from Nice Airport and the 602 from the Vauban bus station in Nice to the Casino in Monaco. Additionally, the new 600 bus line runs from Nice to Menton via Monaco and back.

The train journey from Nice to Monaco takes about 22 minutes. During the Grand Prix weekend, trains will depart from Nice approximately every 15 minutes and cost less than €5 if booked in advance.

The first train departs at 5:40 am, and the last trains back from Monaco on May 25th and 26th are scheduled for 11:51 pm—perfect if you want to stay a little later in the Principality.

For both the trains and buses, expect lineups and plenty of people in general so leave earlier for your arrival to Monaco.

Taxis, Uber, Bolt

Another option is to travel to and from Monaco using a taxi or ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt, though this can be more complicated than it seems as there are various rules.

Monaco-registered taxis can only pick up passengers within the Principality, as there is no agreement permitting them to collect passengers from French territory.

Car service drivers from France can collect and drop off passengers inside Monaco, but only if they have an official vignette. With only 320 of these permits available, the demand for taxi and ride-hailing services is high, resulting in elevated prices.

Alternatively, you can still take an Uber or Bolt (expect to pay premium rates) into Cap d’Ail, as an example, and make your way into Monaco by foot. Taxis in general in France are more expensive than Uber or Bolt.

Helicopter

Flying from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport to the Principality takes just seven minutes from helipad to helipad, making it unquestionably the fastest and most stress-free way to reach the action.

But again, book ahead.

Taking a scenic flight is a great alternative. Blade, owned by Monaco-based Monacair, offers rates starting at €550 on May 24th, 25th, and 27th, with prices for "Race Day" flights on May 26th starting at €650.

Walking

As odd as it sounds, it can be done. One example is, if you can make your way to the heart of Cap d’Ail then a leisurely walk into Monaco can take around 30 minutes.

Monaco itself has an area of 2.1 km² (0.81 sq mi), or 208 ha (510 acres), making it easily accessible by foot, even with the street restrictions in place for the Grand Prix.

International Day Against Homophobia & LGBTQ+ Rights in Monaco

 

May 17th marks the International Day Against Homophobia yet for all, basic human rights are still not equal.

Surprisingly to many, given all the glitz and glam of the luxury lifestyle within the Principality of Monaco, same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples in Monaco are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples. In fact, Monaco is the least developed among Western European countries in terms of LGBTQ+ equality.

The Principality of Monaco ranks in the bottom 10% of 49 European and Central Asian countries monitored annually by an international civil rights association advocating for equal civil and economic rights for LGBTQ+ citizens. Only 5 countries are rated worse than Monaco: Belarus, Russia, Armenia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan.

In Monaco, numerous accounts exist detailing the stark absence of fundamental LGBTQ+ equality rights. Below are some instances of discrimination encountered by residents, non-Monegasque inhabitants, and foreign workers. The identities and nationalities of individuals involved have been altered.

Brigitte, a resident of France, has dedicated 35 years of her life to working in Monaco, diligently contributing to the Social Security and Retirement program throughout this period. At 72, she married her partner of 29 years in 2015. Despite this, Brigitte's spouse currently lacks any entitlement to spousal rights within the retirement system, meaning she will not receive any spousal "reversion" benefits upon Brigitte's passing. Brigitte's spouse, although younger, faces a medical condition that hampers her ability to work full-time, making the denial of her spousal "reversion" benefits particularly impactful.

Audrey is a Monegasque citizen and has an approved civil union PACS with her partner Sylvie. If Audrey dies before her partner, Sylvie will be forced to pay an inheritance tax on the apartment they share although a married heterosexual couple would pay no tax. In addition, the law prohibits two members of the same sex to live together in the same apartment unless they are related by birth.

Henry and James, legally wed in France, call Monaco home. But, if James were to suffer a car accident and be admitted to a Monaco hospital in a coma, Henry would face a distressing reality: he would have no legal authority to make any decisions regarding James's treatment, including critical matters such as resuscitation

Léa and Margot, Monegasques, had a child, the latter is enrolled in daycare. Margot was unable to pick up her child from daycare because she is not the biological mother. Léa had to sign an authorization so that her mother could collect it. However, the daycare charges this household on all of their income.

Maud and Louise work in the private sector in Monaco and have a child. The Medical Benefits Service in Monaco considers this household as such and takes all income into account. However, when it comes to family allowances, Maud is considered a single mother. In addition, Louise was unable to benefit from leave linked to the birth of their child.

The Rainbow Map, now in its 12th year, is published by the International Lesbian & Gay Association (ILGA) which is co-funded by the European Commission.

The Rainbow Map uses seven categories and 74 criteria to examine the LGBTQ+ laws and policies of each nation, including equality and non-discrimination in the workplace and at home.

Although Monaco’s historical ties to the Catholic Church are often cited for the poor performance, there are no other predominantly Catholic countries in the bottom 10%. In fact, the number-one rated country on the Rainbow Map is Malta whose population is 96% Catholic and whose Constitution establishes Catholicism as the state religion.

Nearly half of the 49 countries covered by the Rainbow Map recognize civil unions or marriages between same-sex couples, Monaco’s failure to recognize marriages legally binding in other countries results in a significant loss of civil and economic rights.

With this, we strive on, with a growing number of local individuals showcasing our strength.

This year for the first time in Monaco, the “MON’ARC EN CIEL” association was created to defend and promote the individual and collective rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people in the Principality.

 For more details, contact: monarcenciel@monaco.mc