The Axeman Cometh!

Love him or hate him, his staunch defence of the BCSWEET has certainly paid off.

How I kept it to myself I do not know, but since Marc told me back in December he was taking over as the new BCSWEET guitarist I've been longing to mention it on the net, if only to flush out all of the others who I am sure were also sworn to secrecy!

Tonight at the STANDARD MUSIC VENUE in Walthamstow the AXEMAN played his first gig with the band and before a crowded house he did us proud. But not before it seemed disaster had struck. Lead singer Glen smiled gleefully before the set as he described how Axey was backstage shaking like a leaf (a BIG leaf) waiting to go on. Glen, snuggling up to fiancé Jean, was in a much more relaxed frame of mind and was clearly enjoying his evening. Even he however looked worried as Marc's guitar totally failed its master as they launched into their first number, Blockbuster. Ian appeared from the wings to sling the several hundred pounds worth of radio technology over his shoulder to replace it with a good old-fashioned lead. It actually only took about 20 seconds, but for Axeman it seemed like forever. "It's been working fine during rehearsals," he told me. "I could've died! My big debut and a dead guitar."

The rest of the set went according to plan and the rest of the band seemed very happy with the new member of the crew. He relaxed as the evening went on and after a few more gigs will start to transmit it more to the audience.

Axey had asked that his debut be kept quiet so as not to have too many websters present for his first outing, but now the secret's out he expects many more of those who have followed his postings on Stewart's site over the years to turn up and cheer him on. As it was I was pleased to see Lost Angel and VC10 in the house and Anne Rathje all the way from Denmark.

(And for those of you who never realised, the name "Axeman" refers to "Axe" as in guitar. Makes sense now doesn't it.)

Below: Two of Axeman

Above: Martyn and Glen

Above: Glen and Jean

VC10, Sixteens, Lost Angel