Moscow just has to be one of the most fascinating cities in the world and in the three years since our last visit, it has clearly changed immeasurably. One of the first things which strikes you is the sheer scale of everything and then the increase in neon lighting and most strikingly, the huge number of modern shops and stores. Clearly the wealth in Moscow is on the increase. The drive from the airport just goes on and on, a long very wide, very straight road. Moscow’s road system is centered roughly around the heart of the city. From there, they radiate out to intersect with a sequence of circular “rings” focused at the Kremlin. Like St. Petersburg, the driving is chaotic, verging on suicidal. There seem to be no enforceable speed limits and with little in the way of road markings it's a free-for-all. We were overtaken many time both on the inside and outside lanes by cars and bikes doing well over 100 (mph). Safely in to the city and waking in the brand new Ritz Carlton hotel where there is a bottle of champagne on the room service menu which costs £1,770, a brief visit to Red Square before sound check.  

The name 'Red Suqare' doesn't come from the colour of the bricks nor the reference to communism but from the Russian word   красная (krasnaya) that can either mean Red or beautiful. The name was originally applied relating to St. Basil's cathedral but later transferred to the nearby square. St. Basils with it's distinctive onion domes is perceived as a symbol of Russia's unique position between Europe and Asia.

The view South from St. Basils cathedral.

As I suspected, the journey for the crew last night from St. Petersburg was a tough one with incredibly bumpy roads, Simon said that at one point he became separated from his mattress on the bus.. The Olympiski, the same venue we played in 2001 I recall hasn't changed much. This is a HUGE hall which is quite literally split into two with an absolutely massive steel wall partition. Our show is on one side and on the other today was an arms convention. Guns, knives, assault weapons etc. etc. Makes you think..Steve and Pete checking out some of the knives as they break down the stands.



The management planning global domination whilst we wait for the passports at Moscow GA terminal before we depart for Luton. Four days off now (at home for the Brits) and some much needed rest for all..