Almanac Music: R.I.P. Aretha

Neil Drysdale records his tribute to Aretha Franklin, the greatest singer of her generation.

Almanac Memoir: Wisdom in politics? Can you believe that?

Neil Drysdale of Scotland shares this very personal account of his politics and those of his family; informed by the very WWI trenches, themselves. Personal philosophy as the basis of political affiliation. Originally posted a couple of years ago, this piece has never felt more timely.

Almanac Soccer: John Lambie, Scottish Football Hero

Neil Drysdale pays tribute to John Lambie, one of Scottish football’s most mercurial and charismatic characters from the 1970s to the 1990s, who passed away this week. [Super piece about a classic much-loved character – JTH]

ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers: Scotland Denied

For the winner of last night’s ICC World Cup Qualifier between Scotland and the West Indies, the prize was a spot in the 2019 World Cup. The Scots fell heartbreakingly short, losing by 5 runs. Neil Drysdale, our man in Scotland, reports on the game.

Kyle Coetzer’s 5000

With Scotland currently undefeated in the ODI World Cup Qualifiers, Neil Drysdale pays tribute to Scottish skipper Kyle Coetzer, the first Scot in the history of the game to make 5000 runs for his country.

Almanac Snooker: On Ronnie O’Sullivan

On the eve of the World Snooker Championships, Neil Drysdale recalls his conversation with the mercurial Ronnie O’Sullivan. [And have a look at Ronnie’s 147 break – JTH]

Almanac Obituary: Tommy Gemmell

Tommy Gemmell, one of the characters of Scottish soccer has died at the age of 73. Neil Drysdale remembers his colourful life.

Almanac Music: Bonfest

Bonfest is coming soon to Scotland and that has Neil Drysdale excited about his younger days. The town of Kirriemuir even recently unveiled a bronze statue of Bon Scott.

Almanac Film Review: SOLD

Neil Drysdale reviews the confronting film SOLD which exposes human trafficking as a worldwide problem and an issue that governments have a responsibility to tackle individually and collectively.

Almanac Music: Springsteen – in his own words

Neil Drysdale, when feeling down on the year that has been 2016, is given a lift by a Springsteen doco. [Sounds excellent – Ed]

Almanac Cricket: Red cards and faces in cricket

What are cricket administrators doing? Neil Drysdale is bewildered by a discussion on the red card when there are far more pressing matters especially for emerging Test nations.

Almanac Music – Book Review: The Beatles I Was There

Neil Drysdale reviews Richard Houghton’s new book on The Beatles. Looks like some terrific early insights emerge from interviews with those who were at the earliest gigs – and beyond.

Almanac People: Alistair Urquhart a life worth commemorating

In a compelling story, Scottish soldier Alistair Urquhart, who died on Friday aged 97, left behind one of the incredible survival stories of WW2. Neil Drsydale feels his life is worth commemorating.

Almanac Opinion: Growing sick of sport!

Some thoughtful insights from Neil about why he has become sick of sport.

Almanac Golf: Arnold Palmer tribute

The sporting world has lost two charismatic figures this year in Ali and now Palmer. Neil Drysdale pays tribute to Golfing immortal Arnold Palmer.

Almanac Art: The Broons and Oor Wullie turn 80

On the 80th anniversary of the initial publication of the artist’s best known characters, Neil Drysdale shines a light on Dundonian cartoonist Dudley Watkins

Almanac (Soccer) History: Remembering Ferenc Puskas, on not growing old (with Youtube highlights)

Neil Drysdale had the opportunity to interview Ferenc Puskas before he died ten years ago. You may know of the famous Hungarian by name, but this will help you understand the origin and nature of his genius. (And his training diet is pretty appealing as well: wine, beer, soda water, spicy sausages and conversation.) Includes a Youtube montage. [Brilliant – JTH]

Everyday Obituary: Sam Martinez

Neil Drysdale pays tribute to Hibs superfan, Sam Martinez.

Almanac Olympics – An Antidote to the Hysteria

Where are the Brazilians? Neil Drysdale isn’t impressed with the hosts of the 2016 Olympic Games.

Almanac Music: “When An Old Cricketer Leaves the Crease”

Neil Drysdale traces the sprawling music career of Roy Harper.