That's right folks, only a week after my obituary on The Verve, they announce they're getting back together in their original line-up to record a new album. I have mixed feelings about this, obviously.
Of course, I'm relishing the opportunity to see them again, at the Roundhouse this time. And of course, I'll buy the new album.
However, I have fears...
- Ashcroft gigs are awash with dad-rock fans- the type who clog the bathrooms at Oasis and Paul Weller gigs
- Given 'Mad Richard's self-confessed ego-tripping, there is the strong possibility that the album will come out sounding not unlike one of his solo efforts, only with added mooching guitars courtesy of McCabe. (He is the only member not to appear on Ashcroft's previous solo efforts.)
- Most likely they'll try with a couple of producers, maybe Owen Morris and Flood, possibly even someone like James Lavelle, before sacking everyone and producing it themselves, creating a soupy, whining mass.
- There is no denying this band find it difficult to work together. No doubt they'll honour the gigs they've already advertised, but if they're already experiencing difficulties and burn-out, the gigs will be a heartbreaking whimper. We're talking a letdown of Stone Roses at Reading proportions. The chances of them staying together past Christmas are slimmer than Ashcroft himself.
So, there you go. They're coming back and that's that. They don't have a record label yet, but that doesn't seem to matter. No doubt the bidding war is currently under way, as it's a guaranteed cash-cow, and the royalties should keep Richard in black jeans and V-neck T-shirts for a good few years to come. Just don't go swiping any obscure Rolling Stones instrumental spin-offs this time, eh lads?
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