Hours away from a fresh orbit of the sun, alongside a brilliant string of shows, 2023 has been primarily a year of recuperation, recharging, and formation - with a few firsts.
Prioritising myself for the first time ever. Finishing my first album. My first full-blown solo do's without any human safety nets by my side. My first drum gigs outside a pub. My first voluntary month off!
And making it a mission to attend as many gigs as I play - probably more. Blur in the sun, Oasis (well, Noel) in the rain, Level 42 by the sea, The Molotovs in my local, stadiums and dives, mates and idols and sometimes both at the same time.
I've adjusted to being in the crowd now. It can be funny. "Are you getting up there tonight?" is a regular X on my bingo card as an audience member. Thing is, being actually invited up is another regular one!
I'm in a weird level of establishment. Playing to thousands and empty social clubs in the same week. Being uncomfortably bombarded with recognition at a mate's gig then post-drinks in total obscurity at a place I play regularly. The Albert Hall one night and a mate's open mic the next. Treated like royalty in Italy and dirt in Camden. I can't keep track! Maybe 2024 will bring some consistency. Or not.
The new year is shaping up excitedly - some unfathomably honouring adventures with the regular groups, and, as I've waited for my whole life, the prospect of existing as an artist. It's all formulating, and it's gonna be special!
Hope this fresh orbit is happy and healthy for all of you, and your support this year has meant the world, whether from near or far, in person or in spirit.
Here's a photo of an attempt to be in the crowd. See you next year tomorrow x
