Pedestals, Ports and Piazzas - July 2019

The ship backstage at Genoa
Photo © Ben Fenner

Steve and Jo in Santarcangelo di Romagna

Ahead of the Italian tour, Jo and I headed off to Cesena to join our wonderful pals from the agency Musicalbox2-0, Vania, Sergio, Patty, Massimo and Sandra. It was great to have a couple of days to rest. We stayed in a remote countryside retreat with amazing views. Vania took us to the beautiful old town of Santarcangelo di Romagna. Those lovely towns on Italian hills have a magical atmosphere with all the Medieval buildings and timeless walls...

After that, Vania drove us across Italy to our first tour stop, Genova. Terrific to connect with our team and close friends Nick and Peter. Good to see other pals and fans too. What an extraordinary show, with a big enthusiastic crowd and giant cruise ships passing beside the stage... It felt as if we were on a ship at sea with elements in full cry like a typhoon whipping up the rigging above us...

Next stop, Pordenone, with its old cobbled streets and Alpine vista. It was special and emotional for me to receive the "keys to the city" honour from the Mayor, and to feel such support from the town. The gig in the park felt electric in every way...

The following morning, on to Mantova, a remarkable historic town. On arrival, you cross a large river, and there are its massive walls and ramparts ahead of you. Jo and I stayed that night in a thirteenth century castle looking over the beautiful piazza, where the band played a phenomenal show to another fabulously appreciative audience.

We then turned south for one of those jewels of Italy, Florence. What an incredible city! We played there in a magnificent piazza, with a view of the famous Duomo. And such a huge crowd! The vibe was spellbinding. We marked the occasion, celebrating Craig's birthday backstage.

Next morning, onwards to our final destination, Rome itself, forever awe-inspiring with its monumental ancient buildings, fantastic fountains and towering pines. We managed to get into the city to wonder once again at the incredible Trevi Fountain, Marcus Aurelius column and Pantheon.

By contrast, the Rome show was in a super-modern venue, resembling a group of giant armadillos. There was a brilliant fan reaction, and it felt like one of the best gigs ever...

As always, it felt sad to leave. Italy is such an extraordinary country. Grazie mille, a big thank you to Vania, Sergio, Massimo, Alessandro, Gabrielle, Christian, and everyone who helped us on tour! A presto Italia!