If there's anything you'd like to know....this is the place to ask for it. :)

What is your favorite Depeche Mode album?

Song?

What is your favorite Depeche Mode album?

Song?




Favorite album: Music For The Masses. I think it's the most coherent and consistent album they've ever made. The irony of it all is that this is the album I always recommend as a first introduction to Depeche Mode, while the title was actually meant to be ironical.

Favorite song: that's a toughie... Sometimes I think it's Walking In My Shoes, other times I feel more like I Feel You, or Precious (you know it's about Dave's children, don't you?), or even Fly On The Windscreen...so quite a lot.

On the other hand...there's few songs that I don't like, like Sister Of Night or Goodnight Lovers.

Hello Henk...

Got a bit of spare cash?

Then for a guy like you...here's how to spend it! ;)

What do you do for a living? ???

Hello Henk...

Got a bit of spare cash?

Then for a guy like you...here's how to spend it! ;)


Ooh! I want one! I want one! :D Is it available yet? ???


Wait...I bet you need a credit card for that, and I don't have one. Dang. :(

What do you do for a living? ???


I work at an accountancy firm, checking all outgoing mail (letters, annual reports, emails, faxes) to see if there are any corrections needed. Now the annual reports have been checked by at least two other people before me, but I still find mistakes/errors.
The corrections can be both grammatical and arithmetical.
I've been doing this work for the past 7 years now and it doesn't get boring (well, not to me anyway).

Ooh! I want one! I want one! :D Is it available yet? ???

Well, our American friends got it first (as always!), but a band with a stature as DM (as well as a rabid fan base!), it'll probably be available for European territories pretty soon...

Wait...I bet you need a credit card for that, and I don't have one. Dang. :(


It may be the only chance to get those rarities...pretty tempting to get a card even if it's just for that one purchase!

I work at an accountancy firm, checking all outgoing mail (letters, annual reports, emails, faxes) to see if there are any corrections needed. Now the annual reports have been checked by at least two other people before me, but I still find mistakes/errors.
The corrections can be both grammatical and arithmetical.
I've been doing this work for the past 7 years now and it doesn't get boring (well, not to me anyway).



How much do you get paid?

Ooh! I want one! I want one! :D Is it available yet? ???


Wait...I bet you need a credit card for that, and I don't have one. Dang. :(


Go to the bank and get one!

Well, our American friends got it first (as always!), but a band with a stature as DM (as well as a rabid fan base!), it'll probably be available for European territories pretty soon...

It may be the only chance to get those rarities...pretty tempting to get a card even if it's just for that one purchase!


I just checked iTunes (I hadn't heard about this) and there it is! Wow! I, too, lack a credit card, but it's pretty damn tempting, although I'd really prefer a physical copy to a digital one. If only...

I was going to type up the new material available, but the track lists are up at Spanish Wikipedia, so I'll link there if you're interested: http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Complete_Depeche_Mode

... and back to the subject at hand, a question for you, good Mr. Henk: We know you've got an ace knowledge of music and that you spend some of your time here on this board - do you have any other things you especially enjoy?

what's your favorite movie?

How much do you get paid?


I could simply say: Enough, but that would be clincher. So instead I'm gonna be honest about it. I work 40 hours a week and my gross salary is € 2,180 per month; that would be about $ 2,860 at the current rate.(FYI: in The Netherlands, this is considered average) But in case you were interested, my job's already taken. ;)

I just checked iTunes (I hadn't heard about this) and there it is! Wow! I, too, lack a credit card, but it's pretty damn tempting, although I'd really prefer a physical copy to a digital one. If only...

I was going to type up the new material available, but the track lists are up at Spanish Wikipedia, so I'll link there if you're interested: http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Complete_Depeche_Mode


Thanks! :) I'll check out the link later.


... and back to the subject at hand, a question for you, good Mr. Henk: We know you've got an ace knowledge of music and that you spend some of your time here on this board - do you have any other things you especially enjoy?


Well, I enjoy singing (in a Christians Men Choir). We practise once a week, and we sing in services about 5 times a year. Apart from that, we usually give one annual performance in fall and we also sing in old people's homes twice a year.

I have some other hobbies on the side, but I don't really have the time for those right now.

what's your favorite movie?


I can't think of one right now. I don't watch a lot of movies (can't remember the last time I was in cinema...). I do remember seeing The Sixth Sense and enjoying it - escpecially the ending. It certainly caught me by surprise. Don't ask me any details though...

Go to the bank and get one!


Whatfor? For this sole purpose? I don't think so!  :P I don't like the idea of being in debt, not even to a limited amount.

I could simply say: Enough, but that would be clincher. So instead I'm gonna be honest about it. I work 40 hours a week and my gross salary is € 2,180 per month; that would be about $ 2,860 at the current rate.(FYI: in The Netherlands, this is considered average) But in case you were interested, my job's already taken. ;)


How much is your "take home" pay?

How much is your "take home" pay?


About € 1,625 , or $ 2,135, per month.

Have you been to the US before? If so, what is your favorite part?

About € 1,625 , or $ 2,135, per month.


Wow,I'd sure love to have THAT amount. :o

Have you been to the US before? If so, what is your favorite part?


No, I haven't. In fact, I've hardly been anywhere but The Netherlands (a few trips to our neighbouring countries Belgium and Germany, and Luxembourg).
It's not that I don't want to, though...it's just...complicated and unfamiliar - and I like things to be uncomplicated and familiar, ya know. :-\\

No, I haven't. In fact, I've hardly been anywhere but The Netherlands (a few trips to our neighbouring countries Belgium and Germany, and Luxembourg).
It's not that I don't want to, though...it's just...complicated and unfamiliar - and I like things to be uncomplicated and familiar, ya know. :-\\



I understand...I'm kind of the same way. :)

Wow,I'd sure love to have THAT amount. :o


I was very lucky to find this job, Howard. Plus I think I'm grossly overpaid. ;)

Favorite album: Music For The Masses. I think it's the most coherent and consistent album they've ever made. The irony of it all is that this is the album I always recommend as a first introduction to Depeche Mode, while the title was actually meant to be ironical.



Mine too!  It's just perfect.


For songs, I'd have to say "In Your Room." 


Have you ever seen them in concert?

I understand...I'm kind of the same way. :)


If somebody else would take care of all the arrangements...I'd be on the next plane. I just wouldn't know where to start.

I'd need some company though, or else I'd be totally lost once I got to the U.S... I have a very poor EQ.

Mine too!  It's just perfect.


For songs, I'd have to say "In Your Room." 


Well, not in my Top 10...but your wish is my command. ;)


Have you ever seen them in concert?


Unfortunately not. DM hardly ever visit The Netherlands anymore (due to lack of recognition/fans). I was gonna go to a concert in 1990, I think... but my colleague (also a DM fan) cancelled the appointment we had, and I didn't want to go alone (see also previous posts).

I was very lucky to find this job, Howard. Plus I think I'm grossly overpaid. ;)


Why is that? ??? ???

Well, not in my Top 10...but your wish is my command. ;)



:D


I haven't seen them in concert either, btw.  I'm not much of a concert goer.


If somebody else would take care of all the arrangements...I'd be on the next plane. I just wouldn't know where to start.

I'd need some company though, or else I'd be totally lost once I got to the U.S... I have a very poor EQ.


*Raises hand.* 

You'd have no problem finding hosts/company here - I'm sure we'd all love to show you around our various areas.  :)

What does EQ mean?

Why is that? ??? ???


I wasn't being serious, Howard. Sorry if you misunderstood.

*Raises hand.* 

You'd have no problem finding hosts/company here - I'm sure we'd all love to show you around our various areas.   :)


Now when's the next flight to Utah... ::)



What does EQ mean?


From wikipedia:

"Emotional Intelligence, also called EI and often measured as an Emotional Intelligence Quotient or EQ, describes an ability, capacity, or skill to perceive, assess, and manage the emotions of one's self, of others, and of groups."

In other words: I'm not the socializing type. Therefore I don't have any "real life" friends.

I wasn't being serious, Howard. Sorry if you misunderstood.


How do you budget your pay?

How do you budget your pay?


I don't. I hate budgeting. :P

Fortunately, I don't need to budget 'cause I'm not much of a spender, and I make more than enough money to pay the monthly bills.

I don't. I hate budgeting. :P

Fortunately, I don't need to budget 'cause I'm not much of a spender, and I make more than enough money to pay the monthly bills.


Your bills must be pretty high?

Your bills must be pretty high?


I don't know what you consider "high"... :-\\ But like I said, I've no problems paying them.

I don't know what you consider "high"... :-\\ But like I said, I've no problems paying them.


What bills do you have to pay in order to maintain your household?

Now when's the next flight to Utah... ::)


From wikipedia:

"Emotional Intelligence, also called EI and often measured as an Emotional Intelligence Quotient or EQ, describes an ability, capacity, or skill to perceive, assess, and manage the emotions of one's self, of others, and of groups."

In other words: I'm not the socializing type. Therefore I don't have any "real life" friends.


That just blows my mind.  You're so fun, so witty, such a great guy!!

What bills do you have to pay in order to maintain your household?


The usual: rent, electricity, water, gas, phone, insurance...food of course. Then there's the cable company (where would we be without 'em?), and some extra like a pension contribution today, but it will come in handy later  ;)].

That just blows my mind.  You're so fun, so witty, such a great guy!!


I will second all of that and add courteous and pleasant to the list.

That just blows my mind.  You're so fun, so witty, such a great guy!!



I will second all of that and add courteous and pleasant to the list.


Well... who am I to disagree? ::)


But all joking aside: just being witty doesn't make anybody a good friend. There's a lot more to it. I find it hard to keep a genuine interest in people (which I think is essential to make a relationship work). Maybe that's because I tend to think I'm not that interesting to other people.

Well... who am I to disagree? ::)


But all joking aside: just being witty doesn't make anybody a good friend. There's a lot more to it. I find it hard to keep a genuine interest in people (which I think is essential to make a relationship work). Maybe that's because I tend to think I'm not that interesting to other people.


I think you're very interesting.  Just know that you will always have a friend here.  http://www.inthe00s.com/smile/05/herz.gif 


(Unless you do something to really piss me off, in which case I will toss you into the attic!)

Maybe that's because I tend to think I'm not that interesting to other people.


I can sympathise... :-[

The usual: rent, electricity, water, gas, phone, insurance...food of course. Then there's the cable company (where would we be without 'em?), and some extra like a pension contribution today, but it will come in handy later  ;)].


Do you have a big family?

I think you're very interesting.  Just know that you will always have a friend here.   http://www.inthe00s.com/smile/05/herz.gif 


That means a lot to me. I hope I won't let you down.


(Unless you do something to really piss me off, in which case I will toss you into the attic!)


If you want this relationship to work you'd better leave the "making threats" part to me, you hear? ;)

I can sympathise... :-[


We'd be a jolly couple to hang out with! ;D

I've never met you in real life, but judging by what I've seen on the boards you're anything but uninteresting. You've a great sense of humour, you have a great knowledge of music and you're considerate and courteous. :)

Do you have a big family?


I'm single, if that's what you mean, with two brothers and two sisters. My oldest sister is married (she has three children) and my older brother is engaged to be married (marriage is scheduled to be celebrated in September). My parents are both still alive as well.

We'd be a jolly couple to hang out with! ;D

I think even the furniture would get up and walk out!

I've never met you in real life, but judging by what I've seen on the boards you're anything but uninteresting. You've a great sense of humour, you have a great knowledge of music and you're considerate and courteous. :)


Thank you muchly, Henk...those self-same words could easily apply to you! :)

Now, the difficult part is actually convincing ourselves...hey-ho!

I think even the furniture would get up and walk out!


I'd rather have 'em walk out than walk out on me. ;)


Thank you muchly, Henk...those self-same words could easily apply to you! :)

Now, the difficult part is actually convincing ourselves...hey-ho!


Let's start today, right here and now.

We're nice blokes. We are funny. We are courteous. We deserve a slap in the face pat on the back. ;D

What do you think of solo Depeche albums like Paper Monsters by Gahan and the Counterfeit EP and Counterfeit² album by Gore?

What do you think of solo Depeche albums like Paper Monsters by Gahan and the Counterfeit EP and Counterfeit² album by Gore?


I'm not very fond of the Counterfeit ones... :-\\ Could be because I'm not familiar with the original versions of the songs, but on the whole I found them rather disappointing.

Paper Monsters on the other hand...was a pleasant surprise.

Do you drive a car?  ???

Do you drive a car?  ???


Yep. A Nissan.

Yep. A Nissan.


How many miles a gallon does it get?

I'm not very fond of the Counterfeit ones... :-\\ Could be because I'm not familiar with the original versions of the songs, but on the whole I found them rather disappointing.

Paper Monsters on the other hand...was a pleasant surprise.


I wasn't too keen on the Counterfeit ones either, but naturally I had to own copies.  What still shocks me is that in the CD sleeve to the Counterfeit EP are photos of a naked woman :o

That means a lot to me. I hope I won't let you down.


You won't.  :)


If you want this relationship to work you'd better leave the "making threats" part to me, you hear? ;)


Ooooh...interesting...  :D

How many miles a gallon does it get?


It gets 13.4 km a liter, last time I checked.(Now you do the math) Bearing in mind that I only use the car to drive to and from work (22 km a day in total) and there's no highway on that stretch, I think that's not a bad average.

It gets 13.4 km a liter, last time I checked.(Now you do the math) Bearing in mind that I only use the car to drive to and from work (22 km a day in total) and there's no highway on that stretch, I think that's not a bad average.


So you don't use the car that often? ???

So you don't use the car that often? ???


Only every day, Howard... What I'm saying is I only drive short distances (apart from vacation/holiday, which is once a year).

Do you take public transportation on other days?

Do you take public transportation on other days?


What "other days" do you mean? ??? I use the car every day to get to work or anywhere else I want to go. On rare occasions I will go by foot (not to get to work, though). In my case, public transportation is not an option.

Have you gotten into car crashes?

Have you gotten into car crashes?


Just a few, and mostly fender benders. One time, however, another driver didn't give me right of way and hit my trunk. It made my car spin some 120 degrees and I ended up in a ditch. Fortunately it was summer so there wasn't any water in it. Unfortunately I wasn't alone in the car at the time...My older brother (who was sitting in the back) smacked his head against the window (it broke) and ended up with  a bleeding head wound that needed stitching. O - and the car was a total loss.

But that was already 12 years ago, I think. I haven't been in any accidents since.  :)

I'm glad you survived those  :o

I'm glad you survived those  :o


I'm glad too, Howard. ;) I've no intention of dying just yet.

I'm glad too, Howard. ;) I've no intention of dying just yet.


Me neither,Life's good and the living is easy. :)

Just checking...


...yes, it's still there.

Just checking...


...yes, it's still there.
Aw, feeling ignored?

How's everything going?

Aw, feeling ignored?


Maybe just a little, to be honest.

I know, I know...I've no one to blame but myself. I can't expect people to notice me when I keep a low profile. But I have no desire to stand out in meaninglessness, so I have a low post count (although I'm around almost every day). Most of those posts are made in the Quizzes section, too - and since not everybody does quizzes, I'm probably not very well known. That's why I started this thread in the first place.

How's everything going?


Everything's going just fine, Howard. :) I have an appointment for the dentist tomorrow, my car is due for maintenance coming Wednesday, I've a committee meeting this week and still heaps to do before my holiday (starts June 29)...nah! Nothing I can't handle. ;)

Maybe just a little, to be honest.

I know, I know...I've no one to blame but myself. I can't expect people to notice me when I keep a low profile. But I have no desire to stand out in meaninglessness, so I have a low post count (although I'm around almost every day). Most of those posts are made in the Quizzes section, too - and since not everybody does quizzes, I'm probably not very well known. That's why I started this thread in the first place.


Thing is though you'll occasionally come out with killer lines.  You should show your humour more often.

Everything's going just fine, Howard. :) I have an appointment for the dentist tomorrow, my car is due for maintenance coming Wednesday, I've a committee meeting this week and still heaps to do before my holiday (starts June 29)...nah! Nothing I can't handle. ;)


What are you going to the dentist for?

Everything's going just fine, Howard. :) I have an appointment for the dentist tomorrow, my car is due for maintenance coming Wednesday, I've a committee meeting this week and still heaps to do before my holiday (starts June 29)...nah! Nothing I can't handle. ;)


And where are you going for your holiday?

Where are you in the lineup of your brothers and sisters (meaning...how many older and how many younger then you)?  Are you especially close (as in you are more like friends then brothers/sisters) to any of them?

Thing is though you'll occasionally come out with killer lines. 


...but they usually go unnoticed. I don't think I've ever been quoted on the "Forum Quotes of the Day" thread, you know. That hurts. And how come my karma count is (relatively) low? It makes me wonder: am I just casting pearls before the swine?  :-\\


You should show your humour more often.


I'll try anyway. It's either that, or wallowing in self-pity. ;D

What are you going to the dentist for?


Just a regular check-up, Howard. I go twice a year.

And the good news is: everything is okey-dokey. :) I'm off the hook (quite literally) for another six months.

And where are you going for your holiday?


A very, very small hamlet called Weerdinge. Try finding that on GoogleEarth! ::) It's just north of Emmen, in the province of Drenthe.

Anyway, those are the plans...but all of a sudden we're not so sure of actually going anymore. :-\\ See, my mother's not feeling very well (had a few restless nights) and she's seeing a specialist next Friday. We're not sure of the outcome yet, but we may have to revise our plans accordingly.

Just a regular check-up, Howard. I go twice a year.

And the good news is: everything is okey-dokey. :) I'm off the hook (quite literally) for another six months.



So no cavities? ???

Where are you in the lineup of your brothers and sisters (meaning...how many older and how many younger then you)?  Are you especially close (as in you are more like friends then brothers/sisters) to any of them?


I've four siblings: two older sisters, one older brother and one younger brother. Since my younger brother and me are only 17 months apart, people often mistake us for twins (well, in the past anyway). We two are pretty close, though we don't know each other's most intimate secrets.

So no cavities? ???


No cavities whatsoever. I'm just lucky, I guess. ;)

No cavities whatsoever. I'm just lucky, I guess. ;)



I remember 6 years ago I had about 8 cavities,after that my teeth have been pretty white(off-white,I think).

I remember 6 years ago I had about 8 cavities,after that my teeth have been pretty white(off-white,I think).


Oh, I've had my share of cavities in the past... and I've had parts of molars chipped off (while eating a pizza - it makes an interesting grinding sound, but it don't taste too good... ;)). I've also had teeth and molars extracted...I think my dentist must be a wealthy man by now.

Oh, I've had my share of cavities in the past... and I've had parts of molars chipped off (while eating a pizza - it makes an interesting grinding sound, but it don't taste too good... ;)). I've also had teeth and molars extracted...I think my dentist must be a wealthy man by now.


The only thing I've had were cavities but after that my teeth have been great.Just a lot of gunk. :P

A very, very small hamlet called Weerdinge. Try finding that on GoogleEarth! ::) It's just north of Emmen, in the province of Drenthe.


I have another friend that used to live in Drenthe.  Small world (at least it is on the internet)  :)

Hope your mom turns out to be ok and that you enjoy your holiday

The only thing I've had were cavities but after that my teeth have been great.


Lucky you!


Just a lot of gunk. :P


Gunk? Sorry, that's not in my dictionary. :-\\

I have another friend that used to live in Drenthe.  Small world (at least it is on the internet)  :)

Hope your mom turns out to be ok and that you enjoy your holiday


Thanks, Patty. :) Of course we're hoping the same thing, but for now all we can do is wait.

Do you have any nieces or nephews?

Do you live very close to your mom?

Do you have any nieces or nephews?

Do you live very close to your mom?


Yes and yes.

I have two nieces and a nephew. They're the children of my oldest sister (and her husband, of course). The oldest (a girl) will be turning 13 in December (how time flies...), the second (girl) has turned 11 in March and the youngest (boy) will be 10 years old by the end of August.
There will be two nephews added to the total by the end of September though... My older brother is getting married, and his bride-to-be already has two sons (aged 16 and 18) from a previous marriage.

My parents and all of my siblings and me are living in the same town, so we don't have to worry about travelling long distance to see eachother.

Do you have a big family as in cousins and aunts and uncles?  Do you have family get-togethers very often?

Lucky you!

Gunk? Sorry, that's not in my dictionary. :-\\



Gunk meaning I've had a lot of tartar build-up.

Do you have a big family as in cousins and aunts and uncles? 


Yes I do. My mother had one brother and three sisters, all of which have sadly already passed away. One of my aunts never got married (and didn't have any kids either), the other two did though...and got a total of 17 kids. Both aunts outlived their respective spouses (in fact, one of my aunts even outlived her second husband). My uncle also married and had three kids. His widow is still alive and though she's not part of the family by blood, we still keep in touch with her (especially my mother).
On my father's side there are two uncles. One of them is now a widower, with four kids. The other never got married.


Do you have family get-togethers very often?


No we don't. We're not that type of family, I guess. :-\\ We only get to see eachother at funerals lately...and the occasional wedding.

I think this has also to do with age differences. My mother was the second youngest in her family, you see. Her older sisters and brother were already married when she was still going to school. This also lead to great age differences between the cousins, of course - and siblings too, for that matter. One of my aunts became both mother and grandmother at about the same time. A lot of my cousins are old enough to be my mother/father.

Here's a few questions for you, Henk-

-I realize everyone else may know, but from the things I've seen, I'm assuming you're Dutch?

-I am looking to expand my knowledge of European pop & rock groups. Any groups you'd suggest I start with?

-Do you know of a Swedish artist named Stakka Bo? If so, I'd like you to check something out for me. He released his 3rd album in 2001, but only in Europe, apparently. It's called "jr." Could you see if there's a possibility of dredging up a copy? I would deeply appeciate the info.

-What beverages do you enjoy consuming?

Do you realize that you have the most beautiful face?

Do you prefer being it Summer or Spring? ???

Does the name Henk mean anything?

Here's a few questions for you, Henk-

-I realize everyone else may know, but from the things I've seen, I'm assuming you're Dutch?


Well, yes. :)


-I am looking to expand my knowledge of European pop & rock groups. Any groups you'd suggest I start with?


This is not an easy question to answer. "European pop & rock groups"...that's quite a lot of field to cover. Could you be a little more specific (for example: any specific era)? Of course I could wildly name some names, if that's what you want.


-Do you know of a Swedish artist named Stakka Bo? If so, I'd like you to check something out for me. He released his 3rd album in 2001, but only in Europe, apparently. It's called "jr." Could you see if there's a possibility of dredging up a copy? I would deeply appeciate the info.


Heard of, yes. He's not very successful over here.
Now the album...I'll see what I can do (provided it's not too expensive).


-What beverages do you enjoy consuming?


Almost anything, as long as it's non-alcoholic. Tea (whatever flavor), coffee (no espresso please!), soda, juices...or just plain water.
I specifically enjoy drinking what's called "Frisse Fruitdrank" or "Dubbelfris" - not sure if there's an American/English equivalent. :-\\
It consists of mildly carbonated water with (two or more) varieties of fruit juices (Apple/Pear, Apple/Peaches, Forest Fruits, Red Fruits, Lemon/White Grapes, Oranges/Mandarins etc.)

Do you realize that you have the most beautiful face?


Doms...you know I love you too, don't you? :D


Seriously...I was 8 years old when that photo was taken, if that's what you're referring to. I don't look quite the same anymore.

Do you prefer being it Summer or Spring? ???


I do prefer summer over spring, although in this country seasons tend to look more and more alike the last couple of years.

We don't get "real" summers over here, you know. I mean: they don't last very long, generally. It gets relatively warm for a couple of days (a week at most), and then it cools down again (with winds and rain), and then it heats up a little, and then it cools down some more, and then it's fall already (with just the same sort of weather).

Does the name Henk mean anything?


I'm sure it does, but I keep forgetting. I suppose it means the same as Henry, if that's any help.

I'll see if I can find some online information.

Doms...you know I love you too, don't you? :D


Seriously...I was 8 years old when that photo was taken, if that's what you're referring to. I don't look quite the same anymore.


Buahaha. I was quoting The Flaming Lips. I wanted to see if you'd recognize it. YOU FAILED!!

I'm sure it does, but I keep forgetting. I suppose it means the same as Henry, if that's any help.

I'll see if I can find some online information.


Here's what Wikipedia says about Henry:

Henry is a male given name and a surname. It originates from the Norman version of the Germanic name Haimirich and is also a variant of Heinrich. Henry is a common king's name and means 'Ruler of the home' or 'Lord of the house'

The Dutch equivalent of Henry is Hendrik. According to the Meertens Institute, the last part (-rik) means "powerful, mighty". The first part is yet unclear. So...I'm powerful anyway. :)

Buahaha. I was quoting The Flaming Lips. I wanted to see if you'd recognize it. YOU FAILED!!


Well, I wasn't serious either. So there. :P

This is not an easy question to answer. "European pop & rock groups"...that's quite a lot of field to cover. Could you be a little more specific (for example: any specific era)? Of course I could wildly name some names, if that's what you want.

I realize this may be a broad topic, naturally.

For specific eras, I can easily say the 1980s.

How did your mom's specialist appointment go? 

The Dutch equivalent of Henry is Hendrik. According to the Meertens Institute, the last part (-rik) means "powerful, mighty". The first part is yet unclear. So...I'm powerful anyway. :)


powerful, mighty hen?  ;)

I just wondered, someone else I know is married to someone called Henk

powerful, mighty hen?   ;)

I just wondered, someone else I know is married to someone called Henk
There is on LBC (London BroadCasting) local radio in London, a finance reporter with the name of Henk Potts. His true position in life is equity strategist at Barclays Stockbrokers.

Do you know of a Dutch singer named Henk Poort?

I believe he was in the Dutch cast of "Les Miserables".

Have you ever been called "Hank"?

How did your mom's specialist appointment go? 


Although I haven't heard from my parents, I can safely assume everything went alright (if not, I'd found out by now). So preparations for our holiday will continue as planned. :)

powerful, mighty hen?   ;)


Well, not the last time I checked... ;)


There is on LBC (London BroadCasting) local radio in London, a finance reporter with the name of Henk Potts. His true position in life is equity strategist at Barclays Stockbrokers.


See? Henk Power! :D

Do you know of a Dutch singer named Henk Poort?

I believe he was in the Dutch cast of "Les Miserables".


Henk Poort is a famous Dutch (classical) singer- so yes, I've heard of him. He has his own website, so if you wanna know more...

Have you ever been called "Hank"?


Not in writing, no. But since the names are pronounced the same it's hard to tell if somebody's saying "Hank" instead of "Henk", so it's possible I've been called Hank.

See? Henk Power! :D
I hear this Henk Potts almost every morning and his financial reports are on the comedy side.

Henk Poort is a famous Dutch (classical) singer- so yes, I've heard of him. He has his own website, so if you wanna know more...



I can't read his website,It's all in Dutch.

I can't read his website,It's all in Dutch.


It's also available in English and German. There's a language option on the top right corner. ;)

It's also available in English and German. There's a language option on the top right corner. ;)



Oh Ok,I didn't see that part.

What do you do for fun (aside from answer questions from us)?

Can you speak any other languages other then Dutch and English?

What do you do for fun (aside from answer questions from us)?


I make questions for you (in the Quizzes section).


Can you speak any other languages other then Dutch and English?


I can speak a little German. It's very basic, but just enough to answer simple questions by German tourists, or ask questions myself when visiting Germany.

What's your favorite language?

What's your favorite language?


Dutch.  :)

Is your family Dutch?

Is your family Dutch?


Yes, Howard. All my family's Dutch.

-I am looking to expand my knowledge of European pop & rock groups. Any groups you'd suggest I start with?

-Do you know of a Swedish artist named Stakka Bo? If so, I'd like you to check something out for me. He released his 3rd album in 2001, but only in Europe, apparently. It's called "jr." Could you see if there's a possibility of dredging up a copy? I would deeply appeciate the info.



I haven't forgotten about these, in case you were wondering. I'll answer them as soon as possible, but no earlier than July 13 (I'll be on holiday until then).

Actually, I think I may have already found you an answer:



-Do you know of a Swedish artist named Stakka Bo? If so, I'd like you to check something out for me. He released his 3rd album in 2001, but only in Europe, apparently. It's called "jr." Could you see if there's a possibility of dredging up a copy? I would deeply appeciate the info.



The album is available via Amazon.com. Not sure if you want to pay $ 19.49, though.

Why is the name Stakka Bo familiar to me?

Why is the name Stakka Bo familiar to me?


Maybe because of this...  ::)

Maybe because of this...  ::)
Yes it was that, but I have not heard that in ages.

Yes it was that, but I have not heard that in ages.


And now you'll be singing it all day. :D ;D

And now you'll be singing it all day. :D ;D
I will be going to bed soon, I will be dreaming about it all night.

What do you do for fun?

Actually, I think I may have already found you an answer:

The album is available via Amazon.com. Not sure if you want to pay $ 19.49, though.


Thanks, Henk!
I appreciate that!

I am a very HUGE Stakka Bo fan, and I have discovered that this LP is a BEAR to find!

So I thought I'd asked here but clearly forgot.  Did you enjoy your holiday?

Also in Holland how many statutory holidays (we call them bank holidays because the banks shut) do you get and are any for special reasons?

What is the currency of Holland?

So I thought I'd asked here but clearly forgot.  Did you enjoy your holiday?


It was OK. We've had better ones. Nothing wrong with the accommodation or the surroundings, and the hospitality was almost too much to take in...but the weather was a spoilsport. I don't think we've ever had this much rain during our holiday. Especially the first week was extremely wet. No flooding in our area, thank goodness, but we had to change our plans nevertheless. No cycling or hiking...but shopping. The second week was slightly better, but we didn't want to take any chances.
There have been years when I'd take as much as 80 pictures during our holiday. This year I've made only 10... Says it all, really.


Also in Holland how many statutory holidays (we call them bank holidays because the banks shut) do you get and are any for special reasons?


Barring Christian holidays (Easter Monday, Whitmonday, Ascension Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day) and New Year's Day...only one (or two, depending on the year): Koninginnedag (Queen's Birthday, April 30) and Bevrijdingsdag (Liberation Day, May 5).

Koninginnedag is a yearly event, celebrating our monarchy in general, with fleamarkets, parades and other events throughout the country. On this day, the queen (and her family) will visit two towns to have a "meet & greet" with Joe Public, and take part in festivities. This gives some excellent television.
It was originally celebrated on August 31 (the late queen Emma's birthday), but was moved to April 30 when queen Juliana came to power (being her birthday and all). After her abdication in 1980, her daughter (the present queen Beatrix) decided to keep that date as a token of respect and gratitude. (Plus, her own birthday is January 30...not a time you'd want to be outdoors!)

Liberation Day celebrates the end of WW II. It's a statutory holiday once every five years (next one will be 2010). Tough luck if that's a Saturday or Sunday...you don't get it compensated.

What is the currency of Holland?


We've got euros since January 1, 2002. Before that, we had Dutch Guilders.

It was OK. We've had better ones. Nothing wrong with the accommodation or the surroundings, and the hospitality was almost too much to take in...but the weather was a spoilsport. I don't think we've ever had this much rain during our holiday. Especially the first week was extremely wet. No flooding in our area, thank goodness, but we had to change our plans nevertheless. No cycling or hiking...but shopping. The second week was slightly better, but we didn't want to take any chances.
There have been years when I'd take as much as 80 pictures during our holiday. This year I've made only 10... Says it all, really.



It really sucks when the weather is rubbish doesn't it? Especially when you are on holiday

I was just reading a post on another forum from a guy who now lives in Holland.  He says his house is about 3 metres below sea level.  How much below or above sea level is your house (roughly?)






Koninginnedag is a yearly event, celebrating our monarchy in general, with fleamarkets, parades and other events throughout the country. On this day, the queen (and her family) will visit two towns to have a "meet & greet" with Joe Public, and take part in festivities. This gives some excellent television.



I like the idea of the royals going out and about around the country for this.  Here you'd have to go to London for the birthday parade and garden party.




It was originally celebrated on August 31 (the late queen Emma's birthday), but was moved to April 30 when queen Juliana came to power (being her birthday and all). After her abdication in 1980, her daughter (the present queen Beatrix) decided to keep that date as a token of respect and gratitude. (Plus, her own birthday is January 30...not a time you'd want to be outdoors!)




Yes, Queen Elizabeth has two birthdays.  Her real one is sometime in April so she has an official birthday in June.

Is Hollandaise sauce made in Holland?

Yes, Queen Elizabeth has two birthdays.  Her real one is sometime in April so she has an official birthday in June.

Do the French celebrate two birthdays, the date of the the birth and the Saint Day of the name?

What's your favorite thing to eat and drink?  Do you like to cook?

Is Hollandaise sauce made in Holland?


Hollandaise Sauce can be made everywhere, Howard, as long as you follow the recipe. It doesn't originate from Holland (or The Netherlands) either - it's French. You can read more in this Wikipedia article.

It really sucks when the weather is rubbish doesn't it? Especially when you are on holiday

I was just reading a post on another forum from a guy who now lives in Holland.  He says his house is about 3 metres below sea level.  How much below or above sea level is your house (roughly?)


I'm not quite sure...

I think ground floor level may be about 3 ft. (roughly 1 meter) above sea level. Since my appartment is on the second floor, you can add another 10 ft. (or 3 meters) to that. But these are only my estimates, and I could be off by several feet.

I know De Kooy (our local airport) has an elevation of 3 ft., but that's as close as I can get. :-\\

Favorite album: Music For The Masses. I think it's the most coherent and consistent album they've ever made. The irony of it all is that this is the album I always recommend as a first introduction to Depeche Mode, while the title was actually meant to be ironical.

Favorite song: that's a toughie... Sometimes I think it's Walking In My Shoes, other times I feel more like I Feel You, or Precious (you know it's about Dave's children, don't you?), or even Fly On The Windscreen...so quite a lot.

On the other hand...there's few songs that I don't like, like Sister Of Night or Goodnight Lovers.






On the other hand...there's few songs that I don't like, like Sister Of Night or Goodnight Lovers

What do you think of ... say

'Achy Breaky Heart'

'Long haired lover from liverpool' ?

I think they 've got to be amongst the worst songs ever .....

Although 'Footloose' and the chorus of 'Addicted to love' I find quite irritating /monotonous  too. I'm sure there's plenty of others ...

Hollandaise Sauce can be made everywhere, Howard, as long as you follow the recipe. It doesn't originate from Holland (or The Netherlands) either - it's French. You can read more in this Wikipedia article.


Thanks Henk. :)

Do the French celebrate two birthdays, the date of the the birth and the Saint Day of the name?


You're asking me...?  ??? ...'cause I don't know. :-\\

You're asking me...?  ??? ...'cause I don't know. :-\\
I was asking you or anyone who wished to answer.

What's your favorite thing to eat and drink?  Do you like to cook?


Favorite food would be Italian. Pizza, macaroni, spaghetti, tortellini, canelloni...the lot. :) But I'm not a picky eater, so I'll eat most anything.
Drinks...well, non alcoholic, that's for sure. And I don't usually drink highly carbonated beverages either. Anything else is fine with me. (I could be more specific about this, I know...but the beverages I drink aren't available elsewhere, so it wouldn't be of much use)

Cooking is not really my thing, although I don't mind doing it either. I don't like to spend hours cooking. Diner should be ready in approx. 30 minutes, and all necessities should be at hand. That's why we plan our diners a week ahead, and go shopping accordingly.

What do you think of ... say

'Achy Breaky Heart'

'Long haired lover from liverpool' ?

I think they 've got to be amongst the worst songs ever .....

Although 'Footloose' and the chorus of 'Addicted to love' I find quite irritating /monotonous  too. I'm sure there's plenty of others ...


Those songs are definitely not on my list of all time favorites, that's for sure...but there are songs far worse than the ones you mentioned.

...Let's just say it's a good thing you're not Dutch. ;)

Do you like TV Dinners?

Do you like TV Dinners?


I don't think TV Dinners are available in stores over here, Howard - at least not the ones you're probably thinking of. So this question is a bit hard to answer for me. :-\\

Who is/was the biggest Dutch band/singer in the Dutch Top 40 from the 60s to today?

I bet I can guess some of them ...

The 1970s - Golden Earring
The 1990s - 2 Unlimited

Who is/was the biggest Dutch band/singer in the Dutch Top 40 from the 60s to today?

I bet I can guess some of them ...

The 1970s - Golden Earring
The 1990s - 2 Unlimited


A simple question...yet not easy to answer. There's no statistics kept for this kind of thing (not that I know of, anyway), so I had to figure it out myself. Did some calculating, and here are the results of the Dutch jury...

Note: I've only included acts that had 10 or more Top 40 hits during the era given, and I've limited myself to a Top 10 (maximum).


Based on # of Top 40 hits:

1965 - 1969
Golden Earring (13)
The Motions (11)
The Shoes (11)
The Cats (10)
Tee Set (10)

1970 - 1979
Vader Abraham (30)
George Baker Selection (23)
The Cats (20)
Jack Jersey (19)
Andres (Dries van Holten) (17)
Corry Konings (16)
Albert West (16)
Dizzy Man's Band (15)
Sandra Reemer (15)
Mariska Veres (15)

1980 - 1989
Dolly Dots (22)
Normaal (22)
BZN (20)
André van Duin (19)
André Hazes (18)
Babe (12)
Het Goede Doel (12)
Anita Meyer (11)
John Spencer (11)
Piet Veerman (11)

1990 - 1999
René Froger (22)
Frans Bauer (18)
Normaal (18)
2 Unlimited (18)
BZN (17)
Marco Borsato (15)
2 Brothers on the 4th Floor (15)
André Hazes (14)
Paul de Leeuw (13)
T-Spoon (13)


Based on # of weeks on chart:

1965 - 1969
Golden Earring (142)
The Cats (128)
The Motions (87)
The Shoes (77)
Tee Set (73)

1970 - 1979
George Baker Selection (215)
Vader Abraham (194)
The Cats (172)
Willem Duyn (aka Big Mouth) (145)
Golden Earring (132)
Earth & Fire (123)
Corry Konings (120)
Andres (Dries van Holten) (120)
Jack Jersey (112)
Maggie McNeal (112)
Mariska Veres (112)

1980 - 1989
BZN (154)
Dolly Dots (151)
Normaal (124)
André van Duin (118)
André Hazes (115)
Spargo (75)
Piet Veerman (71)
Het Goede Doel (70)
Koos Alberts (69)
Anita Meyer (69)

1990 - 1999
Marco Borsato (184)
2 Unlimited (174)
René Froger (137)
2 Brothers on the 4th Floor (128)
Paul de Leeuw (127)
Frans Bauer (103)
T-Spoon (98)
Charly Lownoise & Mental Theo (97)
BZN (94)
Jeroen Flamman (94)


Based on a combination of # of hits, # of weeks on chart and (average) peak positions:

1965 - 1969
Golden Earring
The Cats
The Motions
The Shoes
Tee Set

1970 - 1979
BZN
Willem Duyn (aka Big Mouth)
Earth & Fire
André van Duin
Shocking Blue
George Baker Selection
Pussycat
Golden Earring
The Cats
Maggie McNeal

1980 - 1989
BZN
Spargo
Koos Alberts
Dolly Dots
André Hazes
André van Duin
Anita Meyer
Het Goede Doel
Piet Veerman
Normaal

1990 - 1999
Marco Borsato
2 Unlimited
Charly Lownoise & Mental Theo
Jeroen Flamman
Paul de Leeuw
2 Brothers on the 4th Floor
De Kast
T-Spoon
Ruth Jacott
Frans Bauer

^ I didn't know Tee Set had hits prior to the 70s.  Interesting to know.  It's a shame their only BIG entry in the US was 'Ma Belle Amie'

Surprised to see 2 Brothers on the 4th Floor.  I still only know them for 'Dreams'.  I need to download all their songs