2006td24

The much anticipated Los Angeles show is finally upon us. As well as being recorded like all the others this one was filmed for the DVD. The Universal Amphitheatre, to use it's original name was the very first venue I played in America way back in 1981 with Roxy Music, in the days when it "didn't have a lid" as Emmylou put it during the show. What I didn't realise is that very soon after that show the work started on rebuilding the venue. This was made obvious to me by the photos on the wall in catering (below). It was great to see Jim Cox again. Jim lives here in LA and came down for the show and meet and greet in which he was guest of honour playing the Mele ukulele. The meet and greet was also filmed so I'd imaging those who haven't sampled it's delights will be able to enjoy a taster on the DVD. It was also nice to hook up with Charlie Boswell and Kelly stuart from AMD. They supply the recording machines we use on the road and indeed in the studio. The ATRR album was also recorded using this astounding technology. Lots of familiar faces in the meet and greet and indeed after-show including our dear friend Tony Wigens who was our tour manager for many many years. Another old friend of Mark's and mine is Bobby Columbie who we haven't seen for 15 years or so. It's also the first time I've been here without my wife Laurie-Ann, originally from LA she couldn't come out as it is still school term, kids etc. She was very much missed especially as after-show I met up with Karen, Jeff, Chet, Riley, Martha, Dennis Jesse and Marlon all very dear long term friends. They all say hi - and happy birthday Dennis. The show itself was great, surprise surprise. The camera crews were respectful of our space onstage and most of the time we didn't even notice them. A great venue, great show, great night, sadly, only two to go.