Festivals
As a way of meeting up with the scattered tribe, hearing great new music, exchanging news, gossip and new ideas, and generally hanging out in a creative but relaxed sort of way, it's hard to beat a festival.
I just want to tell you about some great ones which I'm involved with on a regular basis. Some of these events have been the mainstay of my summers for at least half of my life, and have a great deal of good memories attached to them:
From meeting my partner Glennie at Glastonbury festival, to meeting my longtime playing buddy Chris at Lorient, they have inspired songs and been the venue for some of my most treasured musical and personal experiences. They have been the backdrop for my kids' growing up, and I'm sure they'll be the backdrop for their kids' growing up too, such is their multigenerational allure. Friendships made at festivals can be very special. It's a space in our lives where we open up and explore, and even though that might be it till next year, when next year comes round, it's as if winter hadn't intervened at all.
Add to that the satisfaction of working on festival creation beforehand, and it's a recipe for a fulfilled festie-lover. Give it a try, if you have time, skills and ideas to offer, you might enjoy it. Or just go to the festival and enjoy what has been set up for you.