I just returned from Glasgow and a short Lloyd Cole and the Commotions reunion - for two days only this time. We were being given a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Nordoff Robbins sponsored Tartan Clef awards. Not sure about the lifetime achievement part of it but we were very flattered by the recognition. As they asked us to play a couple of songs our good friend Dave Cummings played bass in place of Lawrence who couldn't make it and did a great job. It was fantastic to see everyone again socially for a few days and nights. You spend so much time in a such a concentrated way with people in a working, touring band that a common link will always exist between you and it made me realize how much I miss these guys in my day to day life.

The three days were very festive, great meals - Mother India Cafe (still the best Indian food that I've eaten anywhere) and Asian Style with our mentor from the Commotions days, the ever generous, Billy Sloan. We also had a few minor booze ups but everyone kept it under control. Saw my old mate Dougie Kelso as well. A bit of heart-warmer all round really. Great performances from Capercaillie and the immensely talented King Creosote. We weren't told that we'd be following Mott The Hoople doing All The Young Dudes full anthem style though. That was amazing to witness and terrifying to follow but I think we did OK. Ian Hunter is a top bloke and still a terrific working writer.

A couple of photos from the rehearsals...