Derby

It's chilly old night in the east midlands, we are greeted on arrival in the Vic by an enormous Alsatian Dog called Charlie, a legend in these parts with a reputation for drinking and star of Kerrang Magazine. He's friendly enough though I keep my distance as dogs tend to dislike me. I was recently bitten by a terrier called Jack who we were minding. He's mentally ill apparently. We're back on stroking terms but only just. Our travel has been relatively painless; we eat Mexican Food across the road post sound check and I overdo the burritos, eyes bigger than the stomach. The hospitality at the venue is second to none and the vibe equally upbeat, Michael the promoter does a really warm welcome pack that includes snacks and booze and seats and a wash basin with hot water. The sorting out of individual drinks riders is beyond the call of duty and we are truly grateful. We enjoy the gig; it passes off without too many hitches, the new pedal board is sitting comfortably and I remember to take the harmonica onstage. I dedicate Replica Shirt to John O?Hare who played for Derby County when I was a kid watching the Villa, he was one of my dads favourite players, very physical old fashioned centre forward, bolt upright, like he had a coat-hanger stuck up his shirt. Nobody seems to remember him still it was practically in another lifetime. Funny what comes back to you on the spur of the song introductory moment. Later on Charlie sups the Flowers Olde English and mine sweeps the stage for extras as we head off into the freezing night with a crate of Bud and a bottle of vodka, the van intact and behaving itself much to the relief of all, VPx