Middlesbrough town hall.

The first time I set eyes on this place was in 1992 when I first came to visit Rachael, my oldest and dearest friend. On that occasion Izzy Stradlin was playing there with his band. I didn't go to see the gig though so I had no idea of this interior until I actually came here with the circus in 2012. 

Like that time, the load in is done by means of a massive ramp up the stairs to the hall. I don't known what it is about these old town halls we play but apart from always being great venues inside, getting the stuff in is always a royal king size pain in the ass. All because the venue is situated on the second or third floor and always have no practical means if entry. 

Bolton Albert halls, Huddersfield town hall, Blackburn King something or other hall, Burnley mechanics,... There's probably a few others but these spring to mind abs are firmly categorised under the "fucking pain in the ass" section of venues on the tour. 

The truck was a little late so I sloped off for a bacon roll in a nearby cafe called Foodies. I was being my usual chirpy welsh self, but it went down with a cup of cold sick as the lass serving me was about as happy as a tight ass at a whip round. 

Back to the truck, unload, which took about 3 hours, set up of pa and the first time it's going to be used in anger. All venues until now we've used in house rigs. But to my surprise, it filled the room lovely and we had some headroom to spare to go louder if needed. Considering the price of these things, I was quite impressed. 

Afterwards it was time for a mosey round town and too meet my old friend Rachael for a catch up and a drink. She's been on a health kick and looks better than I've ever known here. Pretty sure she doesn't look at me the same way, but that's because I'm a lazy fucker that likes pizza! So no mystery there. 

The show went well and looking back on it I can't think of anything show wise worthy of a mention. 

In the band room, I was opening a crate of Foster's and as I said to Matt, "Here's some beers back for the one you've shouted me!" All cans started rolling out of the box on to the floor as the shelf wasn't level. I quickly tried to grab one but they kept coming and looked like I was trying to play a game of keepyuppy with the falling cans while holding two in each hand. Only one burst open which I quickly placed against my mouth to not spill. I still got covered in beer though... 

Much to the amusement of the band and Sergai... I'm such a clumsy bastard on times. 

Show done, it was pack down (over two hours) and the task known to us all as "getting the fuck outta dodge" or at least to me anyways. 

Rotherham tomorrow.