Rather appropriately I'm writing this whilst watching Spain dominate Ukraine in their opening World cup match. I'm back at home for the 2 day break, enjoying commentary in a familiar language. 4-0 to the Spaniards, serious contenders this year?. Ole ole ole ole....

Yesterday was another day when the band party covered some distance. We started the day in Paris checked out of our shoe-box hotel and then made our way to Le Bourget for the afternoon flight to one of our favourite places, Barcelona. Alex, one of the team of drivers was pulled over by an officer of the gendarmerie for apparently no particular reason. They took ages processing the 'ticket' and seemed amused at the fact they had met someone with a principality of Liechtenstein passport. The short delay was no problem as the rest of us waited on board the plane munching Pringles and pistachios before what was to be the last Europen flight for the Americans. They are taking commercial flights homeward today. On to Barcelona and yet another tray of uninspired cheeses and some fish for lunch. The delicious sushi pictured above was what awaited the Brits (and Richard) who flew home after show. Once we landed we headed for the Hotel Arts whereupon it was a battle to push through hundreds of convention goers. A day room had been arranged for Danny, myself and Richard and when we eventually got there, it was naps all round. Then we met downstairs in the restaurant for an early band end-of-Europe dinner. Our catering crew didn't travel down here after Paris along with our lights and PA. This was simply due to the distance. The lights and PA were already up and rigged when the backline truck arrived in the late afternoon. Once again precision timing required to make these shows happen. One can easily forget how well oiled the machine is. After our dinner, just time for a continuation of our siesta before we made our way to soundcheck. A meet and greet followed by what can only be described as a truly wonderful gig with a fantastic Spanish crowd. The ole ole ole ole's rang round the cavernous Palau St. Jordi at various times during the set. What a wonderful crowd to see us off in Europe.

pic Carles Davi

Onboard the plane with Danny, Mark, Richard, Tim, Paul and Simon before we know it and homeward bound to end what was an absolutely wonderful albeit brief European tour. Thanks to all who attended the shows, off to the US......