Tuesday 14 February 2006

on the Edinburgh-Glasgow train, Squeeze singles playing on my iPod
I made it to St Cecilia's this morning in time to help move the 1755 Kirckman into the hall, then Mags and I went off to have breakfast in spoon before rehearsing. Am I only the person who likes the sound of English harpsichords? When it hits a groove, the Kirckman makes a magical noise. 

I did the first part of the concert on autopilot: in control, but apparently listening from a distance, and if truth be told, a little bored. But once I'd established a bit of communication with the audience and started getting something back, it was great fun. The Schetky, which I'd had doubts about playing on harpsichord rather than piano, had some really good moments, and sounded like music. Playing without shoes is also still a very good idea. 

And playing (most of) a concert on your own is a really useful barometer of how you're feeling. I'm knackered. I was aware for most the concert of how tired my eyes felt: I wonder what they looked like.

Afterwards I had a quick look at the Rochhead square piano brought out of store to be investigated (for Schetky again), then it was off to Plaisir du Chocolat with Mags, Alina Bzhezhinska and Haftor Medbøe for chocolate espresso (there's no coffee in it of course), green tea and cake. The perfect place for afternoon post-concert glow and conversation. While a few years ago I would have insisted on the necessity of beer in such a situation, but I can now vouch for the fact that a PduC chocolate espresso is just as satisfying. It's probably not a good idea after a late night gig if you want to get any sleep though.

I had a quick look into the luggage dept in Jenners in fruitless search of a replacement for my Tumi bag which is finally croaking after 5 years of constant abuse, and then to the train and checking email, which included a very interesting suggestion for the release format of the Lion CD, which made me smile.

The late 1970s and Squeeze continue in my headphones. Glenn Tilbrook for sainthood I think. A band with so many strong personalities in it that Jools Holland had to shut up and just hold down some chords. Great songs. Musical imagination. And Gilson Lavis's wonderful drumming. I bought the singles at the time but am still pleased at how good they are. I did have taste when I was 12. Clearly it's all gone downhill from there.