Sundays kill more men than bombs

Here on a Sunday after a couple of swell gigs, not Maps, that's really ancient history and I think they were from Brum, were they? Friday night I was with The Dandys in Green Bohemia alongside the fabulously gifted Michael E aka Joshua Ben Joseph. Michael is a performance artist of some magnitude and the most conscientious promoter in town. I didn't see too many fancy dressers, but there was absinthe for the masses and a barmaid prepared to lose her ear for the sake of art, like Van Gogh, which is kind of disturbing. It was a multi performance affair, Mrs Cakehead at the sound controls did a sterling job considering the speed of turnover, shame I missed his set which everyone said was amazing. Andy Rourke was compering the later part of the night with the effortless charm of an old pro. I have nothing to compare it to were his words of sardonic wisdom. Too true Andy, too true. The surprise film crew were also there, the one that appears out of nowhere. I spoke to Stephen , the man behind the lens, who informs that the planned DVD featuring the post Smithsonian capers of Messrs Rourke, Joyce and I think but I'm not sure Marr [Morrissey wont play ball] is planned for 2005 release. So that's what its all about. It should be great, and will include some Vinny band stuff and interviews. Yesterday I was at The Off the Tracks Festival in Derby which is fantastic little festival where I very much enjoyed my early evening spot despite the presence of some radical fathers organising kids party games at the foot of the stage. I don't usually get distracted but this was really out of order. Ring a ring a roses and then they all fell down and disappeared in a puff of weed smoke and burger fumes. And not before time. Apart from that the gig seemed to go well and it was nice to meet people and to play outdoors, it sort of mellowed my natural anxiety. One pregnant woman bought a copy of the Suicide Dad single for her husband who's about to become a father, there's a joke in there somewhere; I just cant seem to find it. Thanks to Lynne for sending me some pictures of the Salford Lads bash a week past.There are many more at http://gallery67762.fotopic.net/c190557.html On one of them I look alarmingly happy which is kind of unusual as my partner has just reminded me. I play at The Star and Garter here in Picadilly Manchester next Friday 4th June supporting Jad Fair, not sure who he is so I cant help you there but feel free to come along do. Better still email me for guest list places and we'll wing it with the good natured promoter known to all as Mr Georgio. Slowly but surely we are confirming UK band gigs for later in the year and these will be posted as soon as, best, VPx