Title: Classic Rock Magazine Interview

Date: Thursday 24th July 2008

Present: Geoff Barton and Touchstone

Excerpt from Rob's diary

" 'Twas a hot and sunny July afternoon (what do you mean "where was the rain?"), as I did my Mad Hatters impression and caught a very nice Virgin train into Euston, and then (as I was pressed for time) a taxi into Balcombe Street, Marylebone, Central London – the home of Future Publications who publish many famous magazines including, of course, the globally renowned Classic Rock magazine.

As I got out of taxi about 3pm-ish - there was Justin Hawkins and his new band standing in front of me –although I didn't quite recognise him at the time as it was all sunglasses, scarves and hair. They had, however, just left an interview with Classic Rock.

It's funny how you think people are taller on the telly than in real life. Nice little chap, though, Justin, and after I got out of the taxi, he and his new band of merry men climbed in and went on their merry way…

I met my fellow Touchstoners in reception. We were all excited because Geoff Barton  -  he who set up Kerrang magazine, and Number Two of the world famous Classic Rock magazine – had asked us to attend an interview at said premises, before which said magazine wanted to do a photoshoot.  He advised us he wanted to do an "Introducing" feature, as he had been impressed by the Discordant Dreams album, and was probably intrigued not just by the dynamics and drama of the music but also by the quirky nature of the band – three oldies; two baldies, one bird... 'and a partridge in a pear tree'...

The photoshoot was good fun – all the CR guys were very pro and helpful – and in fact they came out with some classic shots of us having a right ol' laugh, but we somehow suspected that a 'moody' shot would eventually be used...

After the 'shoot we met with Geoff and walked out into the bright sunshine and down Balcombe Street to a corner pub. And – of course – the pub had to be called 'The Hobgoblin', didn't it?! It just all made so much sense…

Karma.

We had many beers with Geoff while we all chatted away with his dictaphone running on the table.  Geoff has an interview style which is very relaxed, but he definitely had a cunning plan and structure behind it all – all very professional.  He had clearly researched the band and prepared prior, so when he asked various band members questions – they were all bang on the money.

I have no wish to pre-empt the article, but for sure, a pleasant occasion was had by all, and we would happily repeat it any time Geoff wanted to see us. To say that Geoff is knowledgeable about the industry, would be akin to saying that Father Christmas knows a thing or two about wearing red and giving out presents to kids. His knowledge is vast, and if he'd had more time I think we could have talked about Yes, Floyd , Genesis, Rush, Van Halen until the sun set, the cows came home, and our boat came in.

It is not many globally-renowned rock reviewers who will take their time and put some effort into supporting such prawns at the bottom of the rock pond as ourselves, so we were all made up, and here and now pass on our warmest thanks and best wishes to a man who stands as the rock review god amongst men.

A smashing guy.

We all then went for more beer and a Greek (I think it was) after, to round off a superb day."

The article is due out in November issue – due for publication around 23rd October – don't miss it!!