You'd think some folk would learn their lesson. Andy goes for a second operation. Does this man like the taste of hospital food or what? Still, the website is up, I'm the best thing about it but the rest is pretty neat. Thanks to Mr Chris Fox for his immense help. No need to say any more about it though is there? I mean you are here. Aren't you? Oh no. The voices have started again to compliment the shaking hands.

A live track is also up on myspace. 'It's A Wonderful Life' is a crowd recording from Drouthy Neebors sometime in 2000 I think. The entire set was recorded but the mini disc got the shakes so some of it skips. Pity 'cos it was a fantastic gig, one of the band's own 'High In Dbasement' nights.

In my research to document all things Prophets dug this one out. Found it in Martin C. Strong's The Great Scots Musicography (2002):

CANDY STORE PROPHETS were formed in Dundee... late 90's by unknown 5-piece (a.J.Wood was one) exacting out their ARAB STRAP meets indie-pop C-86 revenge; spoken word ditties interspersed with meaningful dark music. However, only one EP surfaced from this promising bunch entitled 'SONGS FOR ANGELS'. Airplay from Beat Patrol and gigs opening for SPARE SNARE, The DELGADOS and The PASTELS might've found them a few more friends... who knows?

Enigmatic or what? Pretty cool though and it's a fun book / resource. One wee quibble. As far as my admittedly addled brain can recall they never did get to play with the mighty Snare though Jan did send them a lovely postcard telling them how much he dug the e.p. He's a lovely man he is!

And that's all for now folks!!!

Despite Graeme trying to poison Andy and John with odd lemonade (in vodka, these are rock 'n' roll stormtroopers from the Skool of Keef, honest) more new songs are laid down live and direct in Graeme's front-room. They sound well rough, like the mixers, but contain the basis of some promising new tunes. Now if only they'd get their fingers out.

Taking a breather from song writing Andy writes an extended paeon to his formative influences The June Brides. You can read an abbreviated version on Amazon at http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000BAVXCI/202-9336646-7435002? v=glance&n=229816&s=gateway&v=glance.

Uhm, you can tell I didn't do that from memory can't you? Now get back to work and write some bloody songs. Until then...

False starts and false alarms? Haven't we been here before. Rumours of The Candy Store Prophets reforming are usually just that, rumours. Admittedly spread by members of the band after a few libations. Usually it's only the hangovers that have any substance. Any plans are usual mislaid as quickly as you can say pass the aspirin / shotgun! Something tells me this one is serious so I'd better reach for the aspirin. I mean, goddam it, they got me out of bed before midday this time. A sober call this time. "We're reforming. For real. Blame St Jude for it!" There's mention of an album and as the only unreliable narrator to the whole sorry story they want me to write a history for a website. You know I just don't do this for anyone. Then again, this band aren't just anyone so I accept my mission. A few hours later, I'm in the boozer, pen, paper and pint to hand trying to sort it out in my head. Seems it isn't the patron saint of lost causes in person but Edinburgh/Kirkcaldy's finest Saint Jude's Infirmary that are behind this. Turns out their debut album Happy Healthy Lucky Month has a credit to The Candy Store Prophets in the thanks/blessing part as 'Fellow Travellers and try to unravellers...'. Pretty damn apt if you ask me! Both bands played together on several occasions and formed mutual appreciation societies but jeez, this was years ago. Touching really. Been a few false dawns though. I have the evidence – a March 2003 demo and several hangovers. Don't you let me down or I'll be round with the heavies. And the lagers...