Olde Ayrshire (2): KIlwinning Abbey

This print, dated 1901, shows the ruins of Kilwinning Abbey, which was in operation from the 12th to 16th centuries.

James C. Neill: Ayrshire and the Alamo

James Lee Ewing taking a letter from James C. Neill at the Alamo.

It is well known that the Texas Revolution of 1835-36 featured many people of Scottish origin. Just the names testify to that — Bowie, Houston, etc. But one of the leading participants in that heroic struggle was James C. Neill, a full-bloodied Ayrshireman — although by birth a North Carolinian and by destiny a Texan. Both of Neill's parents hailed from Loch Fergus Farm in Ayrshire, before they emigrated to America, where they raised a family of 11 children.

Video: Huxtable, "Milk Monger"

Huxtable is a meaty, bearded duo (or trio?) from Kilmarknock, purveying beefy, melodic stoner rock that sounds very intense while also being easy to listen to. The lads have been compared to Queens of the Stone Age, and last November won a support slot on Ayrshire superstars' Biffy Clyro's London gig. Can't see how these boys can fail.