You really know that the festival season is upon us when the deluges descend and at the time of writing we're hoping that the precipitation pisses off for wonderful Wychwood. And talking of festivals which we love to do ALOT, even a cursory glance at this mag will astound at the sheer volume of such happenings in the Three Shires. Never mind mega- Glastonbury and the rest of the too nakedly mercenary events, we're going to big-up our lovely locals, all of which are previewed, advertised (thank you) and mentioned this issue.
Drum roll please...Hopfest, Woo Fest, Drunken Monkey Fest, Nozstock, Rovin' Fest, Mappfest, Lunar Festival, Shires Fest, Jinney Ring Folk Festival, Bromyard Folk Festival, Upton Jazz, Lakefest, Worcester Lit Fest, Old Bush Blues Fest, Evesham Festival of Music, Worcester Canal Fest, Blues at The Fold, Moseley Jazz, The Majors Arms Rock & Fock and last but certainly not least Worcester Music festival. Quite a list I'm sure you'll agree and doubtless there'll be more later in the year as the festival season happily extends into autumn. Talking of Worcester Music Festival, acts are being added daily to all the promoters line-ups and Slap Night is rapidly taking shape. Watch out for full announcements soon!
In tribute we mention the passing of an international great in one B.B. King and a much loved local musician Andy Hurrell who is paid tribute to on page 5 of this issue. R.I.P. both.
Finally we wave goodbye and raise a glass or two(!) to a certain Danny Meigh late of the Zebedy Rays, who will be departing these sceptred shores for the sun, smut and smog of Los Angeles no less (us bitter & jealous?!). We wish him well of course and believe that means the 3 Zebedy's are all now reside in different continents: Danny in N. America, Adam in Australasia and Josh in er um Wales.
I sincerely hope you enjoy reading this lovingly crafted SlapMag and leave you with the words of Margaret Fuller: "Today a reader, tomorrow a leader." And do we need new leaders!
Educate Ed