An early afternoon departure from the hotel in Manhattan and a swift ride over to Teeterborough and the signature terminal for another wonderful magic carpet ride on the ultimate in modern transportation, the Gulfstream G4. Mark and Emmy posed with their new Imus mugs courtesy of Richard on the plane. They were guests of Don Imus during the promo period earlier this year and apparently Don is a big fan. We arrived at the venue far too early for the crew, much to Dave Dixon's (out front sound) annoyance. They had to wait for ages before they could make any noise in the venue as there are offices in close proximity. OFFICES? jees.. As the crew do their line-check there's plenty of time for me to wander around and take pics. Maple Byrne has been Emmylou's guitar tech for at least 20 years. Hailing from the Bay area Maple worked with Steve Martin in the late 70's, what I would consider to be his heyday (his cat-juggling period) As with many of the guys on our crew there isn't much about guitars that Maple doesn't know. He has quite a collection I believe. It's quite a small venue but it has a difficult sound as we discovered during soundcheck although once it's full it's actually not too bad.

I could remember a few things about this venue from when we came here in 2001 on the STP tour. The fact that it is right across the road from the white house and the less than tempting catering which really typifies most of what appears when we tour the US. See what happens when you get spoilt. Typically it was another great audience and Emmy in particular really enjoyed the show in what she considers to be her musical hometown as she played many many clubs here earlier in her career. The same set and a long runner back to the plane for a lovely after-show sushi selection and before we know it we're back at the hotel in New York.

I understand there are rumours suggesting we are broadcasting tomorrow's Radio City show live...this is NOT TRUE

We are recording the shows and will be filming soon for a DVD which will be released in the Autumn - more info coming soon
I may be slightly less accessible than usual as I will be listening to the performances with this in mind. Please continue to e-mail me but I cannot guarantee the usual prompt answers.

- Crocks update -

I spoke with Paul earlier, he is in good spirits and asked me to extend his gratitude as he was overwhelmed when he read all the messages and good wishes from the fans. Many thanks.

Don't forget to check out the Charity Ukulele auction with only 5 days to go - it's for a very good cause.