Juggalos

I've met more oddballs in the last two months than in the last ten years and they all reside in the United States. The outspoken but very hospitable and likable Alex Jones, some alternative fishermen in Oklahoma followed by a collection of machine gun enthusiasts. All odd but a pleasure to meet nonetheless and that was just in one week.

Last week I returned from the USA after shooting an extraordinary bunch of guys from Wisconsin remotely jump some old car/trucks/buses of a huge ramp into a disused quarry. It sounds simple but watching a load of old clunkers being jumped into a heap of twisted metal is a fine way to spend an summers afternoon. Detroit was next on the itinerary. Now, if you think you've seen a run down city think again. In all my travels around the world I have never seen a city as broken as Detroit. Mumbai looks thriving in comparison. I have never seen so much inner city deprivation... anywhere. On the bright side it's possible to buy a house for $100 and if you're looking for some fresh raccoon meat I've got a great contact.

My last shoot before I flew back home was to cover the annual gathering of the Juggalos in Cave in Rock in southern Illinois. Contrary to popular media coverage the majority of the juggalos were a pleasure to meet, especially the ones who gave me beer. In 115 degrees heat a cold beer gains allot of favour with a thirsty photographer.