Wednesday 23 August 2006

on a train again, Bangor-Glasgow via Crewe
Yawning. Yesterday my exhaustion tipped into complete shutdown: I'm not quite sure how I had the energy to do last night's gig. I wish I'd been properly awake rather than on autopilot, as it seemed like it was great fun. Chris, Alison and I were sharing a stage with Crasdant in the perfect surroundings of Y Tabernacl at Machynlleth. And what a great bunch they were, looking after us with the same infectious enthusiasm that they play with. How many groups have a Welsh triple harp, duelling pibgorns and a spectacular clog dancing finale complete with candle snuffing trick? What's more, Alison and I got our first chance to play a set of Katherine's tunes for a paying audience: a concert habit we will continue I'm sure. We got back to Andy's place near Bangor at about 1.30am last night after the drive north. Great scenery too: Wales is almost completely unknown to me, but I was amazed at how the journey reminded me of the west of Scotland. I wonder if I feel a new holiday destination coming on.

My Gator harmonium case had its first gig by rail, and it proved possible if difficult to cart it around trains and stations. It's very big. And I broke one of the wheels leaving the house on Monday. But there are two left, so it can still be dragged along station platforms: just as well.