Notes From The Road... Again

I officially christen this the first Note From The Road.

We completed our second week of rehearsals this past Saturday, the final week being in an amazing full production sound stage with our complete lighting rig, sound system, arena-size stage... the whole works.  Just like a gig without people.  A brand new facility in London built exactly for this purpose and I've never been in full sized work environment this nice before... clean, modern and comfortable. Complete down to dressing rooms and industrial size kitchen.  Our entire crew was with us from trusted instrument techs, lighting designer, sound men, electricians, riggers and drivers.  And... our fabulous travelling 5-Star catering team!  It will be a challenge to keep the pounds off with this kind of food. Along with practising the show, I practised a week of self-restraint, sort of, leaning in to the soups, salads and fresh fruit and away from desserts and massively delicious entrees.  Let's see how long that lasts.

We're all enjoying a few days of rest here in London before our first show in Bucharest on Thursday. Every bit of equipment was packed and is on it's way to Bucharest now.  The crew will arrive later today and set up tomorrow, Wednesday. As for us, Thursday will be an action packed first day of the tour. We leave London for Bucharest, do a full production rehearsal at the venue (first gig), play the show, following the gig it's back on the plane and fly to Istanbul where we'll base for several days.  To sum it up, that's 3 cities, 3 countries, 2 flights and a gig in the space of about 14 hours.  Cocktails anyone?  Bet on it, but not until that late night flight to Istanbul.

I can assure you that the Yanks in the band are imbibing their quota of London Pride Ale on these days off. We found a great, quiet little pub near the hotel just off Marylebone Street and have been meeting up there at 6:30 each evening for a few pints before dinner.

Finally, I appreciate the response to the Newly Blue record.  Thanks to the many who have purchased or downloaded it and also to those who took a few minutes to write a review.  I'm very flattered.

All right then.... this is going to be another wonderful tour, some nice surprises in the set, Mark and Co. in fine form and ready to take the boards again.  I'll let you know how that first gig went in a couple of days.

So long,

Richard