I wonder, is there something stated in the ‘Tour Scheduling Guidebook: 2007' that states that as many tours as possible must be crammed into the October/November period? I mean, I can remember not so long ago there was an absolute dearth of live rock entertainment, and it should be applauded to see the scene almost as lively as it was back in its 80's heyday, but this year has just been going from the ridiculous to the downright insane. It seems hardly a week goes by without another major tour being announced, yet again crammed into those two winter months. Is it any wonder we see the likes of Hanoi Rocks/LA Guns, John Parr, Stan Bush and Ratt cancelling shows when we already have Rush, Heaven & Hell, Foreigner, Magnum, Gotthard, Dream Theater/Symphony X, Y&T, WASP, Thunder and many more. Jeez, Skid Row tour for November just announced yesterday... enough already!!

The problem is, not only do the smaller tours suffers, but the festivals too. On reflection, one has to say having The United Forces of Rock, Z Rock, Firefest and the Winter Ball all within a 5 week period is not such a great idea for the casual – or even not so casual – rock fan, as there is only so much money people can pay out to see live music, or only so many nights freedom allowed from the wife and kids – and Christmas is just around the corner. So something just has to give – and we are seeing that in the number of cancelled tours. And of course, many cancelled shows makes the fan less prepared to pay out up front, because it's not just the price of a ticket – often it's also flights or train journeys, plus hotels. And then we're in a Catch 22 situation, as promoters of shows – such as the ill-fated Thunderground - decide to cancel based on advanced ticket sales.

Luckily, Firefest this year has enjoyed the most fan support ever, of any previous Firefest or Gods show, and for that we thank you all most gratefully. At least we know for sure there will be a Firefest 5 in 2008. All I would ask is that everyone else spreads their tours a little more thoughtfully next year!

-- Bruce Mee