Glasgow

We’re in Mikes 4x4 watching Spinal Tap with no back line as swarms of migrating starlings hover above us. Stopping off just over the border to feed our faces we sit at the same table in the same corner of the Little Thief as last time when we played Edinburgh. It’s like home from home ordering eggs, chips n beans all round while Andy drops the kids off at the pool. Half an hour later he’s back and we’re still waiting. Tonight’s gig was almost a no-no but now it’s back on courtesy of Mike’s new motor. Our previous van options died in mysterious circumstances and we still have no word from the elusive Mr Daley as to when normal service will be resumed. My guess is never will be but don’t tell anyone. Tonight we’re at Glasgow’s Nice n Sleazy which we manage to locate with surprising accuracy courtesy of the satellite navigation system. After sound check we head off to Gav’s house where we’re staying and get a cab back into town. Gav is one seventh of Camera Obscura, who I know a bit about cause they’re tompaulin’s favourite band, anyway, we talk labels, the perils of touring in the US and Partick Thistle F.C., who are not doing well, apparently. Gav is not only lending us bed-space; he’s also providing a drum kit and a bass amp and transporting them to the venue. We are truly grateful for his assistance and his hospitality. Similarly much gratitude goes out to Chris the guitar player from the Ali Kerr Band for lending me his Marshall Valvestate 60. It did the trick just fine. Then we see Hugh again from Edinburgh and others who have travelled some distance. This is inspiring and we’re grateful as ever for the support. I complement Hugh on his photography. Ben Cooke is here with us, his band, The Language of Flowers are playing the Winchester Club on the Saturday. Ben videos the gig which goes off well enough despite it not selling out. We also enjoy The Ali Kerr Band who play some of the most melodic strummy jangle phase songs I’ve heard in ages. After the gig we walk the interminable lost clubbers walk into nowhere. Freezing cold and nearly two hours later Andy Ben and Mike settle on a party. I come home with Gav and Linda for tea and toast. The others return to the flat around 4am. I’m crashed out in the corner still I can't help noticing that Andy Rourke has turned into Jimmy Saville. Next day we get the full on veggie fry up at Gavs before we depart and make plans to play his club next time we’re back in Glasgow which should be in March once the single is out, best,VPx