Kevin Cummins and I have started a blog. Every Monday I'll be speaking to him (in English) about a photo he took. It can be an old photo, a new photo, a well-known photo, an unpublished photo etc. It started yesterday with a magnificent shot he took of Morrissey back in the days…

You'll find the blog at http://arca.spex.de/, hope you like it!

Morrissey
On the bank of the River Irwell, Salford, 5 September 1989

Swords hasn't been delayed in the US, that listing was for an international pressing. Here’s the normal US release

Seems the US release has been delayed to Nov 17th

Swords [LIMITED EDITION] - Amazon

YOR receives one of the best album covers of the 2000's according to Gigwise.

The 50 Best Album Covers of the 2000s! - Gigwise

Johnnie Craig, for Irish music website 'State', recalls his experience at Finsbury Park in 1992:

"In retrospect, it had all the makings of catastrophe about it. London ska-pop legends Madness had reformed for a one-off weekend reunion in North London, and elected to turn it into something of a ‘Best of British’ showcase. On the bill were newcomers Gallon Drunk and Flowered Up, followed by Ian Dury and Morrissey. 75,000 fans flocked to Finsbury Park on 8th August 1992 for fun and frolics – what could possibly go wrong?

Well, putting Morrissey on the bill, apparently. In some ways, it was only natural that Madness should ask him to take part; their producers, Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley had helmed several Morrissey singles and his 1991 album Kill Uncle (Madness’s Bedders played bass on the record), while Suggs himself had provided guest vocals on Moz’s 1990 single ‘Piccadilly Palare’. Moreover, Morrissey had enthused at length about the essential ‘Englishness’ of both acts, making many (this writer included) believe that Madstock was going to be a quaint garden party. It turned out to be anything but..."

Read on -
My Favourite Worst Nightmare – Morrissey & Madstock - State Magazine

Paint a Vulgar Picture

James Hopkin, Jeff Noon, Catherine O'Flynn, Helen Walsh, Peter Wild

SHORT WEEKEND

Paint a Vulgar Picture is a street-wise short story collection inspired by the music of one of Manchester’s most famous bands, The Smiths. This special launch event, hosted by editor Peter Wild, features readings from contributors James Hopkin (up and coming author of Winter under Water and Even the Crows Say Kraków), Jeff Noon (author of cult novels Vurt and Automated Alice), Catherine O’Flynn (author of What was Lost, which won the Costa First Novel Award 2007) and Helen Walsh (author of acclaimed novels Brass and Once Upon a Time in England). It takes place at the Salford Girls and Lad’s Club, scene of one of the Smith’s most famous photo-opportunities. Prepare to be charmed!

Saturday 24th October, 8pm

Salford Girls and Lads Club

Tickets £5 / £3

Book on 0870 428 0785 or

www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk