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20th April 2009 - Yes, after much debate, deliberation and heart-searchin', Toxic Pete, the reviewer, and the website has reached a natural conclusion. The monster I created was never meant to be anything other than a hobby with a view to putting something back into the music business; over the years musicians have given me so much with their music and creativity and I wanted to help in any way I could - I hope I achieved some of what I set out to do!!
What started off as one CD per week at the very maximum turned out to be anything up to 12 or 15 CD's per day - I felt I couldn't keep up with the demand whilst maintaining the standards I had set for myself as a constructive reviewer - it looked as though it was time to bow out gracefully! I gave it weeks and months of thought until it all just became too much and I thought I'd get out while I'm still 'winning'.
It's been a long hard road but I've learned a lot along the way, I've met some great people, done some things I never dreamed I'd do and above all I've heard some fantastic music. As the 'monster' evolved' I found myself being invited to recording studios, doing radio interviews, judging three Battle Of The Bands competitions, setting on-line, Nation-wide competitions to win valuable studio time, making appearances on live TV, being given awards for my website by eminent 'names' in the industry. It started with local unsigned bands and artists and grew to be a kind of support network for signed artists, promotion agencies and just about anyone who wanted a review or just some advice from all over the world! Such is the power of the internet!!
I'd like to thank the literally hundreds and hundreds of people that encouraged me to continue my crusade by offering positive words and heaping praise on the service I was providing - it's great to get positive feedback and feel that you're doing something worthwhile!! I've received hundreds of really nice emails since announcing my 'retirement' from the 'game' and it's those people who helped me to help you - there are a lot of good people out there willing to help those struggling to get onto the 'fame' ladder. And, it never ceased to amaze me just how good the world music scene is, how strong and how creative - it's no wonder that it's so difficult to beak through when you start to realise the quantity and quality out there - truly amazing!!
Once again, thank you to all my 'friends' out there, some I know most I don't but, I love you all - keep music live, keep music real and keep on rockin' - music is the drug - enjoy!! Bye for now Pete aka Toxic Pete
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