Hey, everyone!

Well, here we are again. Another year over.

I'd like to thank everyone for showing up and
supporting the recent tour and activities in the UK.
It was great to see you all at the shows.

Things are going well to plan towards getting a new
record out 'round about March/April. Recording is
almost complete--I'm very happy with the results so
far. Can't wait to get it out to you folks.

In the meantime, I'm happy to report that I'll be out
on the East Coast beginning April to do some shows in
the New York area. I hope you'll all be able to
attend. There are plans underway for a possible
appearance at next year's Newport Folk Festival and
the New Orleans Jazz Festival. Watch this space for
details.

I hope you are all getting ready for a well-earned
Christmas vacation. Thanks again for all of your
support in 2000. Looking forward to seeing you in
2001.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!

Dave Sharp
Official website www.dave-sharp.co.uk

A big thank you to all of you who showed your support to Mike and the boys
on the recent Second Generation Tour of the UK. The tour drew to a close with a
fantastic triplet of shows in London, Cardiff and Manchester.

The London show was filmed by a six camera shoot and will be available next
year through MPO's 21st Century Recording label... Cardiff was a fantastic 'home'town concert and Manchester was topped off with eleven year old Lewis McElroy being pulled off someone's shoulders in the moshpit and onto the stage by Mike where he joined Mike on an impromptu rap during The Stand (following on in
the tradition of infamous super fan, Barney Rubble). Lewis is from North
Wales band Xell whom Mike has been helping out recently! It was wonderful to see so many new and old faces popping up all over the country. Mike thoroughly enjoyed himself storming through The Alarm's hits and classics and is now all raring to go with new songs for 2001. In between his hectic schedule, Mike has been strumming and humming new songs at every possible moment. A few new songs were even checked out at soundchecks.Hopefully, this will mean a new album for 2001...

Thanks to all of you for all your support through the year 2000. We look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible to Wales next month at the Gathering 9 on the 12th and 13th - the ultimate 'delayed' New Year PARTY!!!! and in the meantime would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year

Love and life,

From all the folks @ MPO
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The Gathering 9 promises to be the best Gathering yet with Mike and the
band primed better than ever before. Expect the unexpected. Due to extra
demand for tickets, 100 extra Gathering tickets have been released. Please
call MPO now on 011 44 (0) 1745 571571 or email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk if
you still wish to make your reservation. Weekend ticket price £26.

For those of you who are unable to attend the whole Gathering weekend, MPO
has been able to release 100 'Saturday night only' tickets priced at £13.
Please call MPO on 01745 571571 or email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk if you wish
to make a reservation

ALARM IN GUITARIST MAGAZINE!

Check out Guitarist magazine for a very interesting and informative
interview with Mike Peters... (a full transcipt of the interview will be available here in the New Year). Here's a taster...

Raise The Alarm...
Lost master tapes bound for the bin have been rescued by The Alarm's Mike Peters after a mammoth treasure hunt. The result, he tells Roger Newell, is a very personal tribute...

If you're one of the many who have been mourning the demise of The Alarm you can now rest a little easier. Front man Mike Peters is currently performing to packed houses in the U.S. on the back of the 'Alarm 2000 Collection' which has taken its own little miracle in pulling together. It's an assembly of the entire recorded history of the band. Researching and finding all that material has meant Peters has been immersed in a mountain of detective work. Job done, he is now offering every individual buyer a bonus CD with a personalised performance of him singing The Alarm song of their own choice...

"It was quite a situation to unravel because IRS records was licensed
through A&M and MCA, then after becoming independent was eventually bought by EMI, so I had to deal with all these corporations. When I tried to clear certain tracks nobody knew who owned what , then I worked out that every single recording was owned by EMI . What the other labels had was the right to the sequence of the songs, so I couldn't use the same running order as the original albums. I wasn't looking to do that so that was fantastic, but there was a lot of paper work missing . EMI had to dig into its archives to find out what stuff wasn't there.

I then went on a detective hunt to find a lot of the master tapes that EMI didn't have, although technically they owned them all. I must've interviewed every ex-employee of IRS between here and Los Angeles, for clues to the masters' whereabouts. I eventually found a security archive in Islington that had masses of stuff that they were about to throw out. It was obviously a treasure trove for EMI..." Mike Peters

Mike Peters' final update his diary of the current UK Tour is here. Read about the final two shows here: http://www.mikepetersweb.com/dispart.asp?id=236

Dispatches From the Front : One Step Closer To Home : Manchester
17.12.00

The final show of the tour. The longest day.

The wake up call was for 5.30 a.m. and by 6.30 I was being picked up at
Junction 32 of the M4 by the Pontypridd Manchester United Supporters Club
Coach for the journey to Manchester to see Man U v Liverpool (thanks to all
concerned). It was a very cold day and an early kick off meant I had to be
at the ground before 12.00. It wasn't the greatest match I've ever seen
although Liverpool played very some effective tactical football and
deservedly beat my boys 1-0. I then spent the rest of the day catching up on
some Christmas Shopping in town before heading to the gig for soundcheck.

Charlie Macintosh, guitarist from Dave Sharp's Hard Travellers, came down
with a message from Dave Sharp himself. Dave wanted Charlie to come up on
stage and thank everyone who had supported Dave on his solo tour.

Together, we decided to play a tribute to Sharpy and sing 'Change' in honour
of the man from Manchester who now resides in New Orleans. When Charlie came
on stage, it brought a lump to my throat when he thanked everyone on Dave's
behalf and also told the audience that Dave Sharp wanted to personally thank
me and the band for helping to keep the spirit of The Alarm alive in the new
millennium. This magnificent gesture on Dave's part has only strengthened my
resolve to follow this current musical path and see where it may lead.

The show was great. I was having flashbacks to the Sound And Fury tour of
1984. It was a similar tour to this one in the sense that we had been
touring the U.K. for years as a best kept secret and all of a sudden we had
a hit single on our hands, an album to be released and we were playing to
larger audiences.

At the time it was a real battle for us and we had to go out and prove
ourselves every night. A lot of UK fans accused us of 'selling out' once
'68' had charted. Some 'fans' used to take offence when a show would sell
out and they couldn't get on the guest list..... and when 'Declaration' came
out loads of 'fans' hated it. This is why I draw the comparison with the
Second Generation Tour and the Sound & Fury. It has been another rite of
passage. We have gone out and proved ourselves every night, we have played
with maximum R&B, sure I've been accused of 'selling out' again, but I know
I've answered the question time and again. I don't tire of playing this
music, I gain strength from it. 99.9% of the feed back from this tour has
been amazing.

That is why it was so heartwarming for me to hear those words from Dave
Sharp. To have Dave's support means everything to me and the fact that Dave
supports this tour and understands all the effort that has gone into it
means that the door is always open for him to join in whenever he feels the
need.

I don't know what the future holds, I never know what the future holds, I
play every show as if it is going to be my last, I write every song as if it
is going to be my last, I make every recording as if it will be my last. I
can sense that everything is changing and to survive change you often have
to do things that are difficult. You have to confront the cliches, you have
to be prepared to contradict yourself. You have to be prepared to make
decisions that are not popular, you have to do things in the short term that
are designed to protect the long term. You have to be prepared to take
chances.

In 1990-1991, my musical career path had become governed not by what I did
or was able to do, but more by what I didn't do. I'm trying not to make the
mistakes I made then - now. I don't know what my next album is going to
sound like or what or who it's going to be by. I might just put it out
without a title or an artist identity and you can call it what you
like......

See you at The Gathering

MP [signing off until further notice......]

As it turned out I never did make it to shoulder level at Wolves. I barely escaped the MPO desk although I did sneak down at one point and wormed my way to the front for one song. I soon fled in panic at the thought of bashing my pink cowboys. It was all a bit rough down there - the boys from Wolves definitely had their heavy boots on.

I do like getting that close though - it's exceptional and for those who haven't dared please do. It's quite incredible to be in touching distance of the band, it's powerful and evocative and in that brief moment Mike feels
like a 'stranger' to me, untouched and beyond.

There were no knickers thrown; a relief, both for me and for Mike:) I loved watching the boys play in such a fitting environment. The Wulfrun Hall was grand and steeped in occasion, well suited to Mike, the boys and their
consequent performance.

I flitted from venue to foyer and was constantly waylaid by people I had become friendly with over the MPO hotline or from previous gigs. It's great to put a name to the face and as I had thought earlier, this tour had definitely taken on the feel of a travelling house party. I'd like to mention Graham Brazier at this point, the first ever person to
call the MPO back in the early nineties when we first set up the office and sat around awaiting our first call... Would anyone even bother? Well, Graham
did and he's still in touch with us to this day, along with 10,000 others...like Steve Binman Broome, another regular who empties the rubbish of the rich and famous of the West Midlands (I think he needs a word with
Mike)...

After the gig, we were all sat on the bus ready to depart (Stevie G and I were desperately fighting the carbo craving as we hadn't eaten since 6pm)
when the bad news was delivered: the van wouldn't start. It was soon realised that whilst we did have diesel, the fact that we were parked on a
slope meant that we were on the road to nowhere.

A brief moment of feeling incredibly pissed off was followed rapidly by a massive urge for chips and curry. Whilst Ladies Man set off in pursuit of
more diesel, I set off into the world of Friday Night UK (short skirts and skimpy tops) in search of ... the British Chippy. Mike was not to be moved from his strict diet of sensible eating and exercise and so in support of
him I abstained. Second wave of feeling really pissed off quickly followed.

These things however are set to try us and instead I concentrated on nice diesel-filled chip-free pleasant thoughts and as if by magic the AA man appeared and set us on our way.

By Saturday, I felt like I was in the middle of battle. Early starts at MPO HQ followed by a full day's work at MPO Merch Towers at the gigs were starting to take their toll and stupidly I was wishing my tour away,
dreaming of sofas, log fires and sleep.......

Liverpool soon perked me up. Tried a bit of shopping in the afternoon with Mike in tow ( I swear to God, he was after a few more shirts!!!!!) but Mike was repeatedly recognised as we wandered between Karen Millen, Oasis and Warehouse. Hey, not that I mind in the slightest but it does put you off your shopping stride, when you're admiring some slinky little number and
asking for 'Glaze-eyed' Peters' opinion, when some geezer pokes his head round and asks if Mike will sing 'Walk Forever' at the gig tonight:)

Mike did, bye the way. Sing Walk Forever. Did I ever tell you that we had 'Walk Forever' played at our wedding? Superb, so I totally understand the significance for those of you out there who requested it as your special
dedication. Only sad thing is that it was written before my time. Can't lay claim to that one :( Mike does assure me though that it wasn't written about
a girl as such, more his stab at a hymn. Hmmm... Presence of Love though… he assures me that was definitely written for me:) We had that played at our
wedding also along with Knockin' on Heavens Door (!!) and Rescue Me (!!!) at the reception. 14 years and they said it wouldn't last... :)

Anyway back to the Lomax, L2 and Liverpool. Historically, in early Alarm days, Liverpool was a difficult territory. Too close to home probably and an inherent belief by the Scousers that The Alarm were sheep shaggers, which
they weren't incidently... as far as I know... in case you were wondering...

Spirit of 76 changed all of that... you know the video where Mike walks about Liverpool town and looks out at the Mersey lights from his beloved Rhyl beach. It was pretty special tonight. Mike had popped in to see Ian
McCulloch of the Bunnymen in the afternoon (Ian's wife is a mega Alarm fan) and so by showtime Mike was a ball of energy once again and the audience was magical. I saw almost one verse of... I can't even remember... I just kept
bumping into so many 'fans'... it was amazing.

The night was topped by the appearance of Pete Wylie, one of Mike's all-time heroes. Pete came to chat by the MPO desk - he really liked the set-up of having such a direct relationship between artist and audience and discussed working with Mike in some way or other. After the show and packing up I finally bumped into Mike who was wandering around the bar. He was whispering
as it was important for him to reserve all his vocal energy. Thankfully Pete took over and Mike was more than happy to just sit and listen to Pete who had seen all his dreams come true.

We were back home tonight what with us North Walians really being Scousers. We were all dead beat especially after the Diesel incident the night previously. The MPO office was bursting at the seams with emails, requests,
merch orders and whilst there is a backroom team of 5 people nowadays at MPO there are still many jobs, telephone calls, emails that only Mike or I can
deal with. It was for this reason that I made the decision to abandon ship and leave the boys on their own for Sheffield.

I really don't like abandoning ship. It is so misery-inducing. You just can't help feeling like Cinderella. 9pm comes and goes and it's like having your guts wrenched out as you 'will' Mike along for his performance. It's strange being married to a musician. Sometimes I think it is more
nervous-making than actually stepping out on stage oneself. I imagine it is how one feels for one's child. You just feel so protective and uneasy until it's all over. Don't get me wrong. We are not a bundle of nerves in the
Peters Household but I can definitely detect Mike withdrawing into his buildup of anticipation for a show and down that path I follow. It's impossible not to, in pursuit of making sure that Mike is ok.

It turned out that Sheffield was a blast from all accounts and I will be forever sad that I missed the boat that night even though much was accomplished and many decks were cleared back in the office.

Monday and Tuesday were 'days off', figuratively speaking. Mike caught up on sleep, running up mountains and recording dedications as well as monitoring
the live recordings of the tour so far with the other hard working man of rock, Mike Jones. The recordings, in the words of 'Mike the Sound' are stunning.

I meanwhile was ensconsed at MPO, making Gathering preparations, organising the Gathering merch (Superstore here we come!!!! :)), advancing the next few
shows, and also attending my Council meeting which made an interesting contrast to the last few days.

I think that's where I'll leave it for now. I'm in bed and it's 1.20am. I'm embarrassed to admit I jumped ship again and missed Nottingham tonight and yes you've guessed it, I'm feeling miserable... cheered though by the
anticipation of three in a row of probably the best concerts yet to come of the Second Generation tour.

The pink cowboy boots are winking at me from the corner of my room and so soon I'll be transported back to the magic Neverland of Rock'n roll. Don't forget your playing cards.

See u at Shepherds Bush Bush Bush... no income tax no vat....

Nos da,

Boob Tube xxx

Again, Jules and mike come through with more great reading!

Jules has added several new entries to he on-going Jules News column. You can
see them all at
http://www.mikepetersweb.com/juleslatest.asp

Mike Peters continues to update his diary of the current UK Tour. You can read it here: http://www.mikepetersweb.com/dispart.asp?id=236

Jules has added several new entries to he on-going Jules News column. You can
see them all at
http://www.mikepetersweb.com/juleslatest.asp

Mike Peters continues to update his diary of the current UK Tour. You can read it here: http://www.mikepetersweb.com/dispart.asp?id=236

Finally, we now have a Christmas game on the site featuring music by "The Chidren Of The Revolution". The game allows you to decorate a Christmas Tree and email it to a friend. While you decorate, "The Rev" pound out their Xmas favorite "All around The World It's Christmas Time". The game requires the "Flash 5.0" player, which can be downloaded from the game page. You can start playing here: http://www.mikepetersweb.com/rev/xmastree.asp

I'm on merch duties at Leeds the Cockpit. I've been to more glamorous places
it has to be said :) The band have just hit the stage just as the monitor
system decided to crash. This is a nightmare for the band as it becomes
such a struggle for the band to hear themselves on stage as they have to
rely on the 'outfront' sound.

I think we're all feeling wasted today. It's strange how a 'day off' can
disorientate everyone - it's almost better to keep on trucking. Mike in
particular prefers to gig day after day as it keeps his voice juiced up.

I've met some great people tonight once again - the legendary A.D.J. Simpson
who is known in MPO quarters as being the 'first' to purchase almost
everything released on 21st Century Recordings, Gathering ticket etc. Nigel
Timmins, an MPO stalwart , Steve Woodhouse, an RE teacher and Alarm lover
and of course not forgetting the beloved MPO crew, Andy & Sam Greenley, Ian
Francis, Katrina Copping and Jackie Collins (real name, honest!)

Mike conducted an interview for BBC Radio just before he hit the stage. It
had been a long day for Mike with a 7.45 start (I had to KICK him out of
bed). Mike was meeting Johnny, remember, the personal trainer and a few
mountains were calling. Granted, last night, Mike had relaxed in front of
the telly, watching his beloved Reds (he never sees the season tickets these
days) with the rest of the band, who naturally being blokes, all share an
appreciation for footie. Whilst on the run, Mike had an embarrassing
experience when he realised half way up the mountain that one of my pairs of
knickers had become attached to the collar of his training jacket (Must have
happened during my laundry session last night when I experienced the joys of
washing Big Jim's smalls - yeah, I know, glamorous life ). Johnny Marine had
to point it out (they were pink and hanging from his collar!!!! :) Mike
defended himself by claiming to be the new Tom Jones and that all the girls
in Newcastle the previous night had thrown underwear at him on stage.

Newcastle was a great night. It's always been a difficult territory for us
for some reason since Mike 'went solo'. We've never quite captured the heady
days of The Alarm and to be honest the Northeast will always represent the
time we had to play a nightmare gig on the same day Mike had been diagnosed
with lymphoma. Thankfully, Mike was one of the lucky ones. The North east
still makes me feel uneasy (no offence to the MPO Geordies :))

Anyway, Newcastle turned out to be an excellent night and I met so many
'new' Alarm fans who hadn't seen The Alarm since 1991. I spent most of the
night chatting with Kirk Brandon from Spear of Destiny much to the ribbing
of all my crew members who reckon I just have a 'thing' for 'singers' :) I
was still wearing my pvc rock chick trousers and pink cowboy boots and have
decided that this has to be the uniform of the tour. Death to trainers.

Speaking of Newcastle I should make mention of Mark Slater who has supported
Mike faithfully through the years and of course Alan Pearson who keeps in
touch with the MPO hotline on a regular basis.

Back in Leeds the crowd were just loving it. Mike's voice which often starts
a little rusty for the first few numbers had oiled up perfectly. The band
are sounding great. As I have said before, we are all really gelling as an
Alarm 2000 ( or whatever you want to call us) team. Mike played a
dedication, 'Absolute Reality' for a guy's girlfriend I had met. The guy was
a Spear of Destiny fan. The girl was a huge Alarm fan. I hurtled back to the
dressing room (Mike wasn't officially doing dedications on this tour after
much consideration). 'I can't do that' complained Mike. 'Oh shit' thought I.
'Please Mikey Boy Darling' pleaded I. 'But I want to crash straight in to
Absolute Reality' persisted Mike; 'Can't I do 'Walk Forever' instead'....
'Nooooo', pleaded I, all wifely charm and perseverance... she's a
huuuuuggggeee Alllaarrrmmm fan!!!!!!! 'Oh okay' says the guy who always
tried to do the right thing. You should have seen the look on the girl;s
face. She had no idea and was absolutely thrilled. It was all worth it.

It's such a primal thing, being part of the throng, whilst Alarm songs are
attacking your senses. I so desperately wanted to submerge myself down at
the front, but had to content myself with bopping away at the merch stall.
Not quite the same as being perched on someone's shoulders but the next best
thing.

Maybe in Wolves....

JJ

Mike and the boys launched into the start of the Alarm 2000/ Mike Peters UK Second Generation Tour with a vengeance. One hour and 47 minutes of blistering Alarm tunes with a few solo gems thrown in as a Christmas bonus. One onlooker commented that it was the best version of 'High on the Hill' ever! The Glasgow crowd did not disappoint and matched the band song for song with their energy and passion. A night to remember!

Marchin' On
Where were you Hiding
Deeside
Majority
Knifedge
Breathe
One Step -acoustic
Unsafe
Absolute
(Acoustic)
Deceiver
Stand
High on the Hill
Sold Me Down the River
Strength
Rain in the Summertime
Rescue Me
Spirit of 76
Regeneration
68 Guns
-
Up for Murder
Blaze of Glory
My Generation (with Kirk Brandon from Spear of Destiny)

MPO is proud to announce the exclusive filming of the Shepherds Bush Empire show. The London concert will be fimed by a 6 camera crew and will be released at a later date on 21st Century Recordings. If you are attending this show and wish to make your mark for posterity, why not take a flag or banner to be seen. Also, don't forget the playing cards for maximum effect!

It was an early rock'n roll Monday morning as we departed from Wales up the
M6 to a favourite Alarm haunt, Glasgow. 'What do we get up to in the tour
bus,' you ask? Well, it depends on the mood, how sober we are, how tired we
are. Today, we were catching up on the Sunday papers. The beauty of rock'n
roll, is that all the barriers of the normal week disintegrate; the only
structure is 'Glasgow, Newcastle, Day Off' etc.... names of days are
meaningless.

As always, it had been a rabid lead up to the tour and we were all knackered
to start off with, apart from Mike, who was primed and trained up, all
raring to go. I was feeling like I had been on the road for at least week
what with all the late MPO nights and early MPO mornings. Tour 'advancing'
and Gathering preparations make heavy work on top of dealing with over 100
emails, faxes and calls a day. Long may it continue.

The rain was lashing down in sharp contrast to our last show in California.
As we pulled up outside 'The Garage' there was an immediate good vibe in the
air.

Colin, our Rep from DF Concerts (the promoters for the show) was there to
welcome us and we were all quite excited because the Vodka and red bull
which we had requested was on the rider. This, together with an abundance of
posters advertising the show around the city centre (always a good sign)
lended itself to our strengthening spirits.

Steve, the drummer and I had concocted a 'How to stay healthy on the Road'
plan on our journey up which involved 'Starch and Carbo' ban after 6pm. We
eyed the Sainsburys 'Be Good to Yourself' crisps hungrily. 'Did beer count
as a starch/carbo in this instance?' we asked ourselves foolishly in a
feeble attempt to bend the rules...

Not that we are all obsessed with drink, you understand. It's just that it
is kind of necessary to ignite and 'sharpen' energy levels somewhat after
the draining effect of being on the road. Ok, so it was only one day but
there was the compounding effect of jet lag to take into consideration.

The gig started to fall into place. The 'humpers' greet our arrival and help
our trusty 'do it all' 'rider' who attends to everbody's needs on stage.
Bobby, 'Ladies Man' Troman, our Tour Manager becomes acquainted with the
promoter (in this case, Colin) and checks that the dressing room is equipped
with all we desire. In this case, vodka and red bull (for Steve, James and
Dick) to perk them up before performance, coke (for Mike Jones, Sound
engineer extraordinaire - one of the non- drinkers on the tour), Diet coke
(for Mike Peters, who claims that this keeps his vocal chords nicely
lubricated), and an assorted abundance of sandwiches, crisps, fruit as well
as the essential 48 bottles of good quality lager!

I begin setting up the MPO Merchandise Desk which is a task and a half due
to the vast amount of CD's and T shirts we carry! I become acquainted with
Liam, Spear of Destiny's manager who is as similarly consumed with all of
Kirk's merchandise.

It's quite strange being the support act, as we have experienced many times
over the years with various bands. You wouldn't believe some of the petty
restrictions placed on you as a support act and so we always try to make
sure that our support acts feel at home.

I first met Kirk at Dave Sharp's gig a few months ago in Manchester and
immediately hit it off with him. He's a great guy, very charming and very
charismatic on stage. If you get chance, come to the show as early as you
can in order to lend your support to Kirk and the Spear of Destiny.

Before you know it, time is speeding up into fast motion and in a blink of
an eye, the rock chick trousers are on (a girl has to make an effort in a
blokes' world :)) and the doors are open.

My time flies by as I meet up with new and old faces. James Newall from
Scotland is first to greet me, an old friend now, so many concerts has he
attended. He also runs the Scottish Gathering bus and does an admirable job
of transporting the Scottish contingent to Wales. Now there's a party!

Martin Smy from Essex who is following the whole UK tour after helping me
admirably in California where he joined us on holiday. Martin even brings
his dog (not an Alarm fan) who waits patiently for Martin back at the hotel
:)

Meanwhile, back in the dressing room, Mike and the boys are revving up.
Tensions, nerves and excitement tighten up and explode into one emotional
outpouring as the boys hit the stage. Mike thrives on the build up, and our
awesome drummer Steve Grantley matches Mike blow for blow as they build
themselves up for the challenge.

It doesn't matter how many gigs you experience, I am always left wanting
more. Despite the responsibility of the 'stall', I cannot resist joining the
crowd and soaking up the atmosphere. For those of you who weren't there, it
reads something like this...

Marchin' On
Where were you Hiding
Deeside
Majority
Knifedge
Breathe
One Step -acoustic
Unsafe
Absolute
(Acoustic)
Deceiver
Stand
High on the Hill
Sold Me Down the River
Strength
Rain in the Summertime
Rescue Me
Spirit of 76
Regeneration
68 Guns
-
Up for Murder
Blaze of Glory
My Generation

See you in Newcastle!

Miss. Jules News

Since the Sharpening Club closed down, it's been busy times back at MPO HQ. 'Mopping up' after the USA, 'setting up' for the Gathering Nine and 'revving up' for the UK Second Generation Tour.

Despite his busy schedule Mike has been 'stepping up' with his personal trainer, Johnny Marine: 'pressing up' in streams and running up local mountains. Performing for two hours a night requires great stamina and so Mike works hard offstage to keep up his strength. Oo er.

When he's not running up mountains Mike can be found strumming a lot these days. You find him in nooks and crannies around the house - just him and his acoustic - jamming new chords - singing new melodies. It's like having Mike Peters radio transmitted 24 hours a day. Glazed looks and mounting bin-bags a go go.

From rehearsal reports, I think you can expect a red hot tour. Mike and the boys have been rehearsing a tonne of Alarm 'specials' and I sense that Mike feels the need to introduce some 'Mike Peters' tunes. I think he's missed playing songs like Regeneration, Burnout Syndrome, High on the Hill... Coincidentally, a lot of callers to MPO in the past few weeks have made similar requests. This will mean longer sets than America so bring a spare T shirt.

I've spoken to some real interesting MPO folk on the phone this week. There was a Mathematician from Oxford, treating himself to Red Acoustic Works, a nine-times Gathereee from Kidderminster who amusingly regaled me with tales of him and his mates preparing to wear their 'heavy' boots to the forthcoming Wolves show in anticipation of frontline pogo-ing... Jose Mendoza from Wyoming who is attending the Gathering for the first time... and of course all our 'regulars' who keep in touch.

Amongst all this MPO madness, I have also been serving 'Our Glorious Leader', he of the Mission fame with T shirts and such finery. It's a dirty job I know and it was with much huffing and puffing that I set off to Paris last week to make sure all was well in Mish World. It was lovely to see the Huss and our dear bass player, Ado doing their Wasteland thing. The Sharpening Club was back in business alongside The Mission's 'Country Club'.

Other highlights of the month included Mike's rendition of 'Happy Xmas war is Over' in Swansea, South Wales for BBC Children in Need whilst Mike's appearance on Janice Long's Radio 2 show was highly memorable. A Mike Peters medley and an attack of emails, calls and faxes from MPO members all across the UK and the world to the BBC Studios! What amazing fans you are.

Well, time to pack the rock chick gear and 'many shirts of Mike' for our Alarming jaunt across the UK. I have a feeling that the Second Generation UK Tour will be rather like an extended Christmas Party. Please come by and say 'hi' and remember that the 'Sharpening Club' starts around 7.00pm.

Mine's a moose drool...

Love and life,

Miss. MPO xxx

Mike and the boys are topping up their tunes with rehearsals in London in preparation for the upcoming UK Second generation Tour. Rumour has it that Mike will be adding some solo compositions after gleaning recent feedback from MPO HQ, requesting the inclusion of Mike Peters' live biggies like Regeneration, Burnout Syndrome, High on the Hill and 21st Century.
Be prepared for a long night!

Other MPO news...The Children of the Revolution have been in touch with MPO to request special passes for the Manchester show on Dec 17th. Mike is overcome with excitement that his hero, Alain Insane is taking the time to check out Alarm 2000 in the flesh.

Please make sure you check in with the MPO Desk if you are attending the UK Tour and fill in a competition flier to win 2 free tickets to the Gathering weekend (12th and 13th Jan 2001) (Existing ticket holders will be reimbursed if they become the lucky winners).

Two new articles have been added to the press/articles section(s):
An interview with SLF/Mike Peters/Alarm 2000 drummer Steve Grantly
A transcription of the recent Yahoo.com video interview with Mike Peters.

Special thanks to Katrina Copping and John O'Donnell for transcribing these.

Yahoo! : We're with Mike Peters, who's currently touring the country with The Alarm 2000. Welcome to yahoo.

MP : Yes, nice to be online.

Yahoo! : Basically right now basically going around the country, here in America, behind a nine-CD box set which you're selling off your website and also re-issues of the bands entire catalogue that you're been remastering, correct?

MP : Yeah that's right, that's how it came about. I didn't realise how much interest there would be in a body of work which was recorded between '81 & '91. It's been quite phenomenal & sort of led to me putting this whole tour together.

Yahoo! : At this point, what made you decide that it was time to bring The Alarm name back out? I mean you've been working on solo projects on and off the past few years.

MP : Well mainly because there's been so much interest in the songs, because when I left the band at the end of the first generation of The Alarm, the idea was that the three other members would have continued with the band and kept the music alive as a focal point. But that never happened, so as time went by, there was more and more pressure building on me to represent and play The Alarm songs. So rather than fight that, I decided that I would go with it.
I did try to put the original line up back together, but the guys all have other lives and they didn't want to do it so I thought that it was such a big thing to have all our records reissued that it was a good thing to go represent the music in the best and most honest way I could.

Yahoo! : By putting the 2000 at the end of it, you're making sure that people know that it's a different incarnation of The Alarm.

MP : Exactly

Yahoo! : But there are some people who would say that if it's not the full band then it's never the real band. What do you think about that? I know Eddie and all them have been talking about that a little bit I guess or actually Dave and all them have been talking a little bit about it in the press

MP : No it's only Twist. He was cool about it at first, but I think as some of the reviews started coming in and from the fans saying that it's as good as or better than the original line-up, it started to hurt a little bit, which is understandable. I think it was just that certain promoters bill it as The Alarm. It's difficult because I was the original singer in the band people make that assumption, but I'm not going to apologise for that, I wrote most of the songs, sang 99% of them. I think there's more good been done to The Alarm in the last two year than in the eight years when I wasn't in the band in the first place.

Yahoo! : Well tell us about the band that you've assembled for this tour - who's playing with you?

MP : Well it's basically a band which has come out of The Gathering, an event which I've run in Wales for the past 9 years, which is a celebration of the music of The Alarm anyway, and the band that have played at that is the band that is on the road.
It features Steve Grantly, who's the drummer from Stiff Little Fingers and there's James Stevenson on guitar, who's played with Generation X, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Cult, he's played in some good bands. And then Richard Llewelyn, from Wales who's a young bass player who's played on a lot of my solo material as well. The best thing about the band is that they know The Alarm inside out. They're played it to their most hardcore fans for the past nine years.

Yahoo! : It's funny, I was remembering when The Alarm first came out, or at least came to this country to tour, back in '81 / '82, the way you were marketed was that you were a punk band playing acoustic guitars. I remember everybody was "wow a punk band playing acoustic guitars". It's so funny now it's very common for bands to play unplugged and do that, but at the time I guess it was unusual to have a rock band up there not playing electric.

MP : I guess that's what set us apart, what was confusing for a lot of people was that we were a band built around songs. Everything since The Alarm stopped making records, I've been able to play every song live on an acoustic guitar anyway. All the songs I wrote for The Alarm were written on an acoustic guitar. What I felt was that the acoustic guitar live, at that point in the 80s, wasn't developed as a live instrument, it was very hard to get mikes and pick-ups which worked and made it sound good.
We used to drill holes in them and put humbuckers in and amplify the internal sound, the sort of spiritual sound you get from playing the acoustic guitar. I'm sure 99% of songs are written when somebody picks up an acoustic instrument, be it a piano or an acoustic guitar, and that's what inspired people to write the great songs of all time.

Yahoo! : So was that when you decided to go down that route back then, was it a reaction to everything else that was going on, or did it just feel really natural for the kind of songs you were doing at the time?

MP : It was really because we felt that when we were writing our songs and then trying to turn them into the electric environment of a band they didn't sound the way they did up here (in the head). So I thought, hang on, I've written all these songs on the acoustic guitar, why don't we just stick the pick-ups in them and play them. I think when you play loud sounds on the acoustic guitar, you think differently. Pick up a Les Paul or a Fender, you play in a certain way, but when you pick an acoustic guitar, you think differently, you think more "chordly", more power chords, and you can't even get up the high end, it's a deeper kind of thing so that was the kind of thinking behind it.

Yahoo! : I remember at the time there was U2, Big Country, The Alarm, a lot of people thought of you together, not only because you were playing guitars again, but there was a very positive kind of uplifting message to most of the songs that you were doing, which I guess, after the anger of punk, was very different. What were you trying to offer back then that maybe rock wasn't offering at the time?

MP : We just wanted people to believe in themselves, that's all. Even today, now, I tune in the radio and I hear a lot of music that has a very negative, aggressive force behind it. I think America's just got punk for itself again. There's been a rise, since Nirvana really, it's been very aggressive music, and it was similar in Britain, a very negative aggressive force coming through that would spill over in violence and we weren't into that. Our message that we gained from punk, living in the suburbs, was much more positive, it was about doing things for yourself and not just about accepting the status quo, but making small changes. And that's what we were trying to pass on to our audiences to say that no one can make your life for you, you have to go out and make it for yourself.

Yahoo! : And the songs today I think, hearing them now, a lot of them do still resonate. It's interesting to hear if you listen to a lot of the bonus tracks that have been attached to some of the albums, and also some of the box-set rarities, even the stuff that got left in the closet sounds really good. There's a version of One Step Closer To Home that sounds just tremendous. And you've actually been introducing that at some of the shows as your favourite Alarm song, even though you didn't write it, it's one of Dave's songs.

MP : It is, that's right. I wish Dave had written more songs for The Alarm, he's a really talented writer, that's one of the things that I regret about The Alarm, that he didn't really push himself as far as he could do as a writer, within the context of the band.

Yahoo! : So what is it about One Step Closer to Home, for example, that makes it stand up to you, considering it's not even your song?

MP : Well partly that I don't have so much emotional attachment to it if you like. It's very hard about your own songs which you've written to say which is your favourite. They become very much like your little children and it's very hard to differentiate between them, so when I step back and look at The Alarm, I just think that Dave wrote a most incredible song, which has grown over the years, lyrically. As people have lived their journey, a lot of the time we were making that music to appeal to younger fans than ourselves, those fans have gone through life and reached the age where we were writing those songs and gone beyond it - some of the songs have stayed with them. I know from doing all the dedications that I do for the box set, that some of these songs have really saved some people's lives through some of the lyrics. Again, that's why I wanted to play those songs because I felt that over the last ten years, The Alarm's disappeared off the face of the planet, musically, the songs have not been represented, excepting acoustic settings by themselves. So I wanted to put that music back on the map, and put it back where it belongs.

Yahoo! : You mentioned dedications - this is a very unusual element of the box set is that you can buy the single albums in stores, but if you go on thealarm.com you can buy a 9 CD box complete and in addition to the 9 albums you get a bonus CD of rarities and you get a song personally dedicated - how is that working?

MP : It's amazing because I didn't think there's be as much demand as there was, I thought that it would be just the die hard fans who'd want to go all the way. I wanted to personalise it in the same way I try to personalise every show I play, I try to don't say the same things, play the same set, I try to make it different. I thought these are the best fans we've ever had, they've been buying into this, have lived with this music for twenty years - I wanted to make a really big gesture to them I had the technology and the way to do it, so I thought yeah, I'll go that way.
So when everybody buys the box set, they can choose their own song, choose a dedication and I'll record it in the studio, or as is the case on the tour, the Second Generation tour of America right now, people are coming to the shows and requesting them, I'm playing them live and recording the shows, burning them onto CD, they go into the box set and they go home.

Yahoo! : Of the songs, what is number one song that everybody seems to be asking you to dedicate?

MP : To be honest with you, it's probably not one of the big hit singles, it's probably Walk Forever By My Side, which a lot of people have had played at their weddings. I even did a recording the other night for a guy who's going to have it played at his funeral. Then Spirit Of '76 is a big song for a lot of people - it's autobiographical for me, but I think it transfers into a lot of peoples lives - the optimism and looking back and never having any regrets is part of what the song tries to convey and people take a lot from that song, and want to remember the band through that song.

Yahoo! : And you've got this coming out on 21st Century Recordings, which is your own label. Is this designed specifically for The Alarm re-issues or are you going to be doing other things on there?

MP : No , we're up to about twenty titles on there. I started it in '91 when we started the website and it's just grown and grown. Obviously all the music which has come out through it, I'm at the core of it, but I don't just see myself as doing one thing, I see myself being multi-dimensional. I've done acoustic records, I've done a soundtrack for a play which is out there, obviously all the Alarm records are out there. I have a band with Billy Duffy of The Cult called Coloursound, and we put that record out in Europe and that's done amazingly well. Now I've got a lot of labels trying to pick up my catalogue and there's a lot of interest in it all, which is great. It's a real cottage industry which has grown and grown.

Yahoo! : Are there artists signed as well or is it just your projects?

MP : That was really the idea. I have a big communication thing with the fans and I always liked the fact that they were trading stuff, I wasn't really against that because I thought that anyone who trades buys all the official stuff anyway. I always felt that with the internet, the ways of sharing music was opening up on a much wider scale and you could be more of a fan about your own music. You didn't have to impress. I was making certain records for record companies, but I was also making records that were on a smaller scale. I don't think all music has to be made to be global.
I think sometimes you're making music for a smaller dimension than that. Once I started putting those records out, only small numbers, but they have grown obviously since then, but there's something quite nice, something liberating about not having to think that this bit of music is going to go into an A&R meeting or be judged at radio or by the press. It's just something I wanted to share with the fans on a smaller level. We will make other ablums to try and push the button and try and reach a wider audience, but I think it's nice to be able to express yourself that way and not feel too pressurised by the music industry.

Yahoo! : I know that at the end of the year at least the American leg of this Alarm 2000 tour ends, are you going to carry this on into 2001?

MP : I go back from the American leg and we start a British tour in December and that's going to be quite a big affair. The first Alarm 2000 shows were with Big Country at the beginning of the year and it just sort of took off in Britain and Europe. So the plan is now, initially I thought maybe it was only a short term thing, but it's kind of grown and grown and I do feel I want to put the music of the band back into people's minds again. Through doing the box set and the tour, people will re-appraise where The Alarm stood in the musical history that we know. So my aim is to have fun and see where it goes but there'll definitely be more shows in America in 2001.

Yahoo! : Great, well looking forward to seeing the new band tonight, thanks for coming in.

MP : Thanks a lot.

Mike Peters appears on 2 radio shows this week following on from the successful Radio 2 show last week.
 
On Weds Nov 29th, Mike records a special show with Spencer Leigh at BBC Merseyside. For requests/ messages to Mike please call Spencer on 0151 708 5500 for further transmission details.
 
On Weds Nov 29th Mike records a special show for Alan Robson at Metro FM. Transmission takes place at 10pm. For requests/ messages to Mike, please call Alan on 0191 421 0401/ 0191 420 0971
 
Regional newspaper articles on the Alarm 2000 Second Generation Tour are popping up all over the country. Please watch your local press.

Mike Peters rocked Radio 2 with a little help from his MPO friends. As Mike arrived at the Pebble Mill studios, DJ, Janice Long and long-time supporter of The Alarm was thrilled to welcome Mike to her BBC Radio 2 studio.

The mountain of email and faxes awaiting Mike's arrival was amazing - the BBC staff were astounded at the response to Mike's appearance on the show.

After some introductory chat with Janice, Mike played 'The Stand' and then Janice valiantly relayed as many email questions as possible to Mike, leading up to the news.

Emails, faxes and phone calls were bombarding the studio and Janice's assistant struggled vainly to ferry the requests from the control room to the studio where Janice and Mike were catching up on old times like hanging out in Erics, Pete Wylie and the Children of the Revolution.

Mike then played a moving Walk Forever by my Side for a delighted Janice followed by a hastily concocted Alarming Mike Medley which had Ms. Long bouncing around the studio with glee. (Marching On... Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke?... 68 Guns...Spirit of 76....Knockin' on Heavens Door)

The BBC World Service meant that many MPO members were able to listen to Mike on air and both Janice and Mike were thrilled to receive emails from as far afield as California, Philadelphia, New York, Florida and even Canada, not forgetting all over the UK...

Mike and the MPO would like to make special thanks to all the MPO members who contributed to the show and helped to make the session such a treat.

CURENT HIGH-BID
£1000 from a bidder in Surrey

NEW SIGS ON ROCK THE CITY AUCTION GUITAR!

Patti Scalfia (Springsteen)
Willie Nile
Joe Grushecky
Joe Durso

(See Below for more info on Rock The City Guitar Auction)

CHARITY SHOW WITH CHARLIE MCINTOSH and THE HARD TRAVELER'S

After a successful "Rock The City" show in September for the Pendlebury Children's Hospital and a recent appearance with Joe Grushecky and Bruce Springsteen in New Jersey for Parkinson's disease, Charlie McIntosh, (Dave Sharp's guitarist and right hand man for ten years) is back, this time again Rockin'and Rollin' for the Pendlebury Children's Hospital Christmas Fund in Manchester, England. This show will raise money to buy the kids some special gifts for Christmas.
CHARLIE MCINTOSH and THE HARD TRAVELER'S
Stage 9:00PM
Sunday December 3rd at the THE TOWN HALL TAVERN, Eccles, Manchester.
Special Charity Christmas show for the Pendlebury Children's Hospital's
Christmas Fund.
There will be NO admission charge, but donations will be taken on the night.

The Town Hall
Church St
Eccles, Manchester
Tel: 0161-707-8106

OLD INFO ABOUT ROCK THE CITY GUITAR AUCTION

Autographed Guitar to be auctioned off for the "Rock The City" charity.
Signatures include:

Joe Bananno
Dave Sharp
Mike Peters
Twist
Kirk Brandon
Toby Bourke
Huey from the Fun Lovin' Criminals
Big Paul Ferguson from Killing Joke
Joe De Lorenzo from the Hard Traveler's
Sonny Barger (the founding father of the HELLS ANGELS)
Charlie McIntosh

Signatures to be added soon will include:
Bruce Springsteen
George Michael
Eddie Macdonald
and more!

A brand new white Fender Telecaster guitar (kindly donated by Bob Bell
from Music Exchange of Manchester/Stockport) is being auctioned off to raise money for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital as part of the "ROCK
THE CITY" Charity Concerts.

Don't miss out on owning this piece of Rock and Roll memorabilia.
Put your bids in NOW!!
Please E-mail all bids to: charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk
All bid updates will be listed at www.charliemcintosh.co.uk

As Of 1-10-2000, Top Bid So Far £500 From Paul in London.

Mike Peters will be appearing on Janice Long's BBC Radio 2 show next Monday night/Tuesday morning (Nov 20th/21st) (approx Midnight - 2am GMT). Janice will be interviewing Mike at length and Mike will be performing live on the show.

Mike would love to hear from you while he is live on air so don 't be shy... please telephone, email Janice Long/Mike Peters at Radio 2.

Phone: 0500 288 291 (open during the show)
Fax: 0121 606 0499
Email: janice.long@bbc.co.uk

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/janicel_show.shtml

The show can be also heard on the internet.
BBC Radio 2 webcasts using Real Audio at http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/listen_pop.shtml

Dear MPO Member

Following on from the successful release of The Alarm 2000
Collection, and last month's much lauded North American Second Generation tour, Mike Peters and Alarm 2000 continue their blistering performances with a return to
British shores.

The UK tour begins on December 4th until December 15th finishing at
Shepherds Bush Empire, London. The UK tour is being promoted by SJM
Concerts.

MIKE ON THE BBC
RADIO AND TV
In the lead up to the UK tour, Mike and the band will be appearing on
BBC1 TV (approx 5 minutes to midnight) as part of Children in Need (Nov
17th). Mike and the band will be performing Happy Christmas; War is Over as
part of a tribute to 1980 (the year in which Children in Need began) and in
memory of John Lennon whilst Paul Weller will be performing Imagine.

Mike Peters will be appearing on Janice Long's BBC Radio 2 show next
Monday (Nov 20th) (approx 11pm -1am). Janice will be interviewing Mike at
length and Mike will be performing live on the show. Please feel free to
contact Mike whilst he is live on air (please contact www.bbc.co.uk)


MIKE PETERS / ALARM 2000
[SECOND GENERATION UK TOUR]
special guest: SPEAR OF DESTINY
4th Dec Glasgow Garage 0141 339 8383
5th Dec Newcastle Uni 0191 233 0444
7th Dec Leeds Cockpit 0113 244 4600
8th Dec Wolverhampton Wulfrun 01902 552121
9th Dec Liverpool Lomax 0151 707 9977
10th Dec Sheffield Leadmill 0114 275 4500
13th Dec Nottingham Rock City 0115 941 2544
15th Dec London Shep Bush Empire 0207 771 2000
16th Dec Cardiff University 02920 387 421
17th Dec Manchester Uni. 0161 832 1111
National CC Hotline 0115 912 9000 www.gigsandtours.com
**********************************************************************
******
**************************(Please note that Cardiff and Manchester
dates
have been changed to the 16th and 17th respectively as above)
**********************************************************************
******
**************************

ALARM 2000 9CD BOX SET
AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW:
99.99 + 3 P&P (UK) 5 (EUROPE) $168 + $10 P&P (NORTH AMERICA)
Please submit your choice of Alarm song and dedication with order.
Delivery
takes 21 days.


ALARM 2000 REVIEWS
***** Record Collector "The Alarm are finally being recognised as the
forefathers of Cool Cymru, and not before time!"

***** Classic Rock "amazingly comprehensive"

***** Guitarist Magazine " A truly staggering achievement... a real
credit
to the band..."

*** Q "The Alarm's stomping rock lit up a moribund 80's musical
landscape......10 hour collection with enough demos,
alternative versions and rarities to keep diehard fans in raptures
forever."



ALARM 2000 US REVIEW
Strength, Perseverance Fuel Alarm Return In Los Angeles
Oct 13, 2000, 11:00 am PT


Mike Peters
While only a remnant remains of the original Alarm lineup -
singer-songwriter Mike Peters -- the music of the Welsh-based,
socially-conscious rock outfit is still as powerful as ever, as
evidenced
by the kickoff of the band's 2nd Generation tour at the Key Club in
West
Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday (Oct. 12).

Appropriately enough, Peters and his Alarm 2000 counterparts
(guitarist
James Stevenson [Generation X, Gene Loves Jezebel], drummer Steve
Grantley
[Stiff Little Fingers], and bassist Richard Llewellyn), launched
into
"Marchin' On," from 1984's Declaration, to kick off the first
American
show in nine years billed as the Alarm. For Peters, who has
achieved mild
solo
success in the U.K. since the band's breakup in 1991 and still has
a rabid
fan following across the pond, the sentiment rings especially true.
The
41-year-old Welshman battled throat cancer and a 60 percent chance
of
survival decree by doctors in 1994 and -- in a much less important
fight
by comparison -- I.R.S. Records for control over the entire Alarm
back
catalog, both of which he won.

So to say its been a long and winding road for Peters to Thursday's
show
in West Hollywood would be to say the Pope is Catholic. As the
anthemic
rock
battle cries began spouting forth, many of which concentrated on
1985's
Strength, it became clear the performance would not only be a
lesson in
nostalgia but a seminar in evocative rock and roll as well. In days
where
inconsequential teen pop and uninspiring rage rock rule, true
songwriting
with a message and a meaning goes a long way, even if it comes from
a band
which never could shake comparisons to U2 and hasn't stirred the
masses in
a decade.

As Peters and his Alarm version 2.0 rattled off the first five songs
("Marchin On," "Where Were You When the Storm Broke?" "Knife Edge,"
"Deeside," and "Majority") like rapid-fire semi-automatic machine
guns,
with little or no break between, the Key Club assembly fired lyrics
right
back in
appreciative retaliation. Peters introduced "One Step Closer to
Home" as
his favorite song the band ever did, despite the fact that original
guitarist
Dave Sharp forgot the initial version after a three-day bender.
Despite
that setback, the electric version of the song appeared on
Strength, while
a
gorgeous acoustic version surfaced later on 1987's Eye of the
Hurricane.
Thursday's crowd was treated to the former, which bellowed with as
much
earnest as it did back in 1985.

Even more touching, however, was Peters' fan dedication. For those
who
don't know, Peters has re-released the entire Alarm back catalog in
box
set
fashion at thealarm.com (allstar, Sept. 11) and fans who purchase it
receive a personal dedicated song of their choice, which Peters will
record
especially for the occasion, with their set. Peters aims to handle
as many
of those requests live as possible, so Thursday night Alarm fanatic
Tony
Fox granted his wife the gift of a lifetime -- a poignant rendition
of
"Walk
Forever by My Side," complete with a relayed message from Peters,
which
the couple walked home with in CD form.

As the night worn on past Midnight (the band didn't surface until 11
p.m.), the one-two-three punch of 1987's "Rain in the Summertime"
and
"Rescue Me"
and 1985's autobiographical "Spirit of '76" captured the pure
essence of
the Alarm. If not for being three of the group's most popular
songs, but
for
capturing a moment of days gone by. As Peters sang "We had
something going
once, but that was a such a long, long time ago," one could
imagine -- if
even for a fleeting moment -- that rock and roll was free again.

Alarm set list:
1. "Marchin' On"
2. "Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke?"
3. "Knife Edge"
4. "Deeside"
5. "Majority"
6. "One Step Closer to Home"
7. "Unsafe Building"
8. "Absolute Reality"
9. "We Are the Light"
10. "Walk Forever by My Side"
11. "The Deceiver"
12. "The Stand"
13. "Sold Me Down the River"
14. "Strength"
15. "Rain in the Summertime"
16. "Rescue Me"
17. "Spirit of '76"

Encore:
18. "68 Guns"
19. "Blaze of Glory"
-- Kevin Raub



Alarming 2000
FEEDBACK!!!!


I'm certain many will be writing in on this show....I just got back
and all
I can say is "#$%@ 'n BRILLIANT !!!!!"
I've been to a lot of shows... It was so incredible to have him do
that
outside acoustic number... what other
artist would do such a thing! that's why we admire him, and that was
just
an incredible moment for me.... it was like I was at a Gathering
or a campfire (since I haven't been to a Gathering!).. Not to mention
the
ENTHUSIASTIC crowd! I've never seen so many HYPED up
people in a long time!!!!
You guys are in for a real treat! Thanks M.P. !!
Mike S, Brave Bull, San Gabriel, California (last U.S. show this year)

I wanted to send a note to let you know how much I enjoyed the show at
the Galaxy last Friday night. You were as incredible as ever and I
can
honestly say that show was one of the highlights of my life. After
not
seeing/hearing from you here in the States for sooo many years, it was
actually quite an emotional experience. "A long time coming", my
friend.
k Gallagher, Galaxy Theatre, California


It is great to be able to stand right in front of the stage and get
what
seemed like a personal show. I've been around since Declaration and a
turning
point in my life was being in the front on Jan Steps at UCLA for the
Spirit
of 86. With this last show, I have had the honor of seeing you 24
times.
Any chance I can get a pick?
I can play your entire song list It would be nice to have a pick from
the
songwriter that carries the torch handed to him by Bob Dylan and Woody
Guthrie before him\Keep it up
Henry, Buffalo Rose, Golden Colorado


Everything an Alarm fan would want to hear was played. Where
Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke? was supercharged, and 68 Guns
had
everyone in the crowd screaming along to the anthem! ...a non stop
barrage
of fired up rockers like Strength, Absolute Reality, Unsafe Building
The
Stand, Rescue Me, a wet Rain in the Summertime thanksto the bottled
water
onstage (Mike Peters spit on me!) and of course the
crowd favorite Spirit of '76. The crowd was singing along all night,
but
Peters stepped away from the mic to allow us our turn at lead vocals
on
'76 and the full house did not disappoint, screaming out "I can
hearthem
now!" in the appropriate spot!
R,P Buffalo Rose, Golden Colorado


Saw you in Missoula, Montana --- it was great!!!!!!
Carl, The Ritz, Missoula, Montana

Hey Mike, are there plans to come to the Atlanta area during this
tour?
I'm a huge fan of The Alarm dating back to your EPs release in 1983.
I have
to admit, I
sort of lost touch after Change but have recently been experiencing
an Alarm
renaissance. This is my first time to your website and I'm
distraught to
learn that I missed you in my home town when you played in Hollywood
and at
the Galaxy.
Wesley G, California


It looks like 2001 is finally the year for me to make the Gathering!
Erik F, New York


I am so happy that you are keeping The Alarm alive and well. The
Spokane
show was great. I felt all of the powerful feelings that I felt 10
years
ago. I wish that I would have known you do dedications before the
show. I
definately would have requested one for Walk Forever By My Side. I'm
very
moved ever time I hear it. Please keep the spirit alive for those of
us who
remember The Stand on MtV and for the new generation. Thanks again
for a
great show and I hope to see you back on the road soon.
Tracy, Boomerangs Spokane, Washington

Terrific show last night at Dallas' club dada! How your voice never
cracks is a total mystery. Needless to say, you sounded great and
were a
gracious frontman. I first saw you guys on the "Strength" tour at the
Bronco Bowl. Anyhow, I just wanted to thank you for an evening of
memorably
heartfelt, impassioned, fun music.
A. L Graham, Club Da da, Dallas, Texas


We all had a great time at the Lincoln, Neb. show on Saturday. It was
an
amazing set, and thanks so much for the dedication. My fiance Nikki
and I
really appreciated your playing "Walk Forever..." for us, it made for
a
truly special moment. You definitely made the drive down from
Minneapolis
worth while!
J Wood Lincoln, Nebraska (Minneapolis)

I just wanted to congratulate you on a great show last weekend...I was
really impressed I was by the show. The new band was
tight, but what I really thought was great was the way you busted
your ass
on stage for that crowd. I then checked out your website. I didn't
know how
"eventful" the '90's
had been for you. But I'm glad your health is back and that you were
able
to track down all those elusive IRS master recordings. I think the
2000
tour is a great idea, and I hope it's been a load of fun for you.
Finally, I
saw a bunch of locals at the show (who, as I overheard before
the show, didn't know anything about The Alarm) up on their feet,
dancing,
as soon as you roared through the first few tunes. The point being--
just in
case you were wondering--the songs still sound
fucking great. Best of luck,
Corbet H Omaha, NE



CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION
Mike Peters' all time favourite band, CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION
have just
announced that they have signed to Mike's label, 21st Century.
Their new
album 'IV' (including the classic 'Allthe World It's
Christmas
Time' written by Mike Peters) is available now, just in time for
Christmas.

Order your copy from
MPO now Tel: 01745 571571 [Price 14.99 + 1 p&p]
TO CONTACT MPO:
TEL 00 44 (0)1745 571571 FAX 00 44 (0)1745 571577 EMAIL
mpo@a... www.mikepetersweb.com

HOW TO MAKE CONTACT WITH THE FOLK AT
MPO



MPO P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, Ll19 9YR, Wales, U.K.
Tel: 011 44 (0) 1745 571571
Tel: 011 44 (0) 1745 571577

email mpo@a...

www.thealarm.com
www.coloursound.com
www.mikepetersweb.com

MIKE PETERS AND ALARM 2000 ON BBC TV
This week on November 17th you will be able to see Mike Peters and Alarm
2000 performing on BBC1 as part of Children in Need. This special
performance will be broadcast across the UK at approximately 5 minutes to
midnight. Mike and the band have been chosen to represent Wales by
performing Lennon's 'Happy Christmas; War is Over' as a contribution to the
1980 theme of this year's Children in Need which commemorates John Lennon's
tragic death in December that year. Paul Weller will be representing
Englaand performing Lennon's 'Imagine'.

The date for the "Rock The City" show at the legendary Stone Pony in New Jersey, USA has been set for Saturday April 7.

Acts confirmed so far are:
Dave Sharp and the Hard Travler's
Charlie Macintosh
Toby Bourke
Bruce Tunkle (www.brucetunkel.com)
Joe D'Urso(www.jdcaravan.com)

The rest of the lineup is not yet confirmed, but it will be a good one, a real Jersey Shore party!
Ticket details to be confirmed.

There is the possibly of a few more shows in N.Y. during that same week/weekend. Nothing confirmed as of yet, but it is still early days, check this site or www.dave-sharp.co.uk regularly for developments.

Anyone needing info about travel and etc. to New Jersey, can email Charlie Mcintosh at charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk

A great video interview has been posted on yahoo.com with Mike Peters.
View it here:


Yahoo Interview

The final show of the US leg of The Alarm 2000 tour was a real corker. It was even more amazing because it was played in such an odd place, at a venue whose acoustics and facilities were less-then ideal. The crowd was humming with rumors of tour-ending surprises, but I don't think anyone could have predicted 6 of San Gabriel's finest Police Officers arriving to bust-up the "disturbance" Mike and the boys created outside the venue at 2:00 A.M.

The show was amazing, just like all the other Alarm 2000 shows, but with upwards of 5 opening bands, The Alarm 2000 took the stage at 12:30 AM (so technically the show was on the 4th and not 3rd) and the had to play a modified set, speeding up many numbers to get through them. This meant the show was a fast and furious crowd-pleaser, with more energy produced on stage than most bands product in an entire tour.

The ending came too quickly. At 1:30 A.M., the mangement got excited that the band had been playing too long, past curfews in voilation of noise ordinances, turned the sound down from the P.A. 15 minutes later, in the middle of 68 Guns (A dedication for Alarm fan 68 Gonz. Jim Gonzales) , they cut the P.A. entirely. Did any of this hinder the band? Come on, this is Mike Peters we are talking about! The band blazed through the end of 68 Guns with no P.A. and it still sounded brilliant. At the end of the song, Mike invited the audience "'round back to the car park to finish the show."

The security and management were noticably jumpy and confused by this. They had probably never heard or seen anything like it in their lives. Minutes later, Mike appeared behind the venue in the parking lot, where nearly the entire audience from inside the venue was waiting for him. He and James Stevenson burst into an acoustic rendition of "Blaze Of Glory" that lit-up the cool San Gabriel morning with shimmering acoustic guitars, and the voices of 150 fans singing along. As the venue security rushed outside to see what was happening, several police officers arrived by both car and bicycle obviously tipped off (by the venue management?) that there was "disturbance" outside. From what had gone on inside the venue(all that crazy singing, jumping, and blazingly-fast songs), they probably thought a full punk-rock riot was taking place. However, what they found was a joyful, peaceful, almost spiritual sing-along by an amazing artist, and a groups of adoring, die-hard fans. The police did nothing to stop it, and for the most part looked-on astonished at the proceedings.

After the song, Mike thanked everyone, said goodbye, and the historic first-leg of The Alarm 2000 tour was complete. It was an amazing end to an amazing tour. Watch out UK, this thing is coming your way next!

The largest and most comprehensive event of its kind. On this almost
literal eve of the US election Mike Peters will be addressing the nation and
promoting The Alarm 2000 Collection with personalities from major radio
stations coast to coast in America.

The RADIO MEGABLAST broadcast will take place on Friday, November 3 and
Saturday, November 4 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The Grand Ballroom on the
Mezzanine Level of The Aladdin Hotel, Las Vegas, NV.

On Saturday Night Mike Peters will be attending The Radio Music awards at
The Aladdins Theater of The Performing Arts.

The tour is whizzing by and I don't even know where to begin since my last recollections... We had a fantastic time in Washington state, particularly in Seattle which was Sold Out. I was run off my feet at the Merch Desk, with Alarm fans registering as new members and other people ordering their boxsets. Mike recorded over ten dedications that night... You are certainly keeping him on his toes and familiar with his own back catalogue. One guy requested 'Across the Border' ... you should have seen Mike's face :)

All along the West Coast, the venues have been packed to bursting. We didn't quite know what to expect, returning to the US in an electric capacity as Alarm 2000 after all these years. It has been really exciting to see the reaction from the crowds and to witness the powerful effect of Alarm songs on American people all the way from San Diego to Seattle. More than anything I have felt such a buzz at watching Mike, Dirk, Stevie G and Big Jim play together. I defy any of you not to love it. The chance to hear every single Alarm hit and classic played at such a frantic place is truly amazing.

After all Mike's hard work and the support of so many of you, his closest fans, it feels wonderful to see the Spikey Boy Kid able to sing the songs of his heritage to his heart's content with a supportive network of musicians around him as well as a supportive network of fans. I am still amazed to meet such an eclectic bunch of people who all share one passionate Alarming love... Some discovered The Alarm at the age of 11 after watching American Bandstand... one guy had hitched a ride and was turned on to The Alarm after
listening to a tape played in the car... another guy in Seattle nursed his passion after countless Alarm appearances on MTV... each person has a different story to tell and each one is fascinating. Many of these people have never even seen The Alarm play live and so this for many has been their first chance to experience the music of The Alarm live.

Obviously, rock'n roll isn't all about sold out shows.... I mean there has to be balance doesn't there.. :) For example I don't think Montana was ever one of The Alarm's bigger markets! The only time they ever visited was to record the 'Sold Me Down the River' video and that was a near disaster. We all arrived from Wales (the home of miners?) for Mike, Ed, Nige and Dave to be handed the script from hell, complete with 'love interest'. Mike had the
thankless task of announcing to the 30 or so assembled cast of actors and crew that this was not going to happen and as a result the video script was hurriedly rewritten to actually include the band. We all then spent the next few days lounging around Bute, Montana as the video crew spent a lifteime (as well as a whopping huge budget) to film local Montana miners at work? Mike made sure that 'A New South Wales' the following video, was filmed back
in South Wales with Russell Young (Change album photographer and director of 'Love Don't Come Easy' and 'Unsafe Building') Afterall, the whole ideology of Change has been borne out of the South Wales valleys, so why go to Montana?!

So here on our second trip to Montana, we were treating our visit more as a sightseeing trip than anything. Suffice to say, we all had a ball and I think the boys played one of their best shows of the tour. I was able to document the show with my digital stills camera and digital video camera so no doubt you videozine purchasers will be treated to the performace at a later date.

At this point of the tour, I think I should point out that the tour has added a new attractive dimension with the creation of the 'US Micro Brew Sampling Sharpening Society.( or U.M.B.S.S.S. for short). The co-founders are yours truly and the Teenage Wizard, guitar hero, James Stevenson. It all began in Portland really, where James and I discovered a mutual dislike of more mainstream American beers. In our quest to satisfy our tastebuds, we
decided it would be sensible to try a different micro brew in every city. And so we did. In Montana, we both got a little carried away, aided by the fact that the barman was a huge Alarm fan. I think we were able to discuss over 12 brews between us that night. Not for us, Coors, Rolling Rock, or Bud... we drink Fat Tyre, Mirror Pond or Moose Drool (the Moose Drool did make Dirk quite sick though, so care must be taken at all times )... It
wasn't Kansas City level or Mexico City, thank God, so I didn't start misbehaving at the merchandise desk or throwing up at inopportune moments but we did all merry down somewhat (apart from Michael Peters who is always a paragon of virtue, bless him, in the protection of his tonsils). I also did meet some very interesting American people and learnt a lot about the Bush/Gore race as well as reading all about Snowmobiling at Yellowstone
Park (apparently snowmobiling will be banned within the next year). Hopefully, I can persuade Mike to join me on a little vacation before next year is out!

So poor Mike has to decline from joining the US Micro Brew Sharpening Sampling Society. Due to the phenomenal success of the Alarm 2000 Collection, Mike spends his entire time chained to the portable recording studio, where he burns of his dedications recorded at the previous night's show on to CDR. He's been doing this for almost 11 months now but his
dedication to the task is truly incredible. He won't even let his trusty Sound Engineer, Michael Jones burn off the CDR's - Mike insists on covering every angle himself. I've seen him record dedications at home in Wales, at the studiio in Wales, on tour in Germany, Belgium , Holland, at rehearsals, at soundchecks, here on tour in America, in the dressing room... you name it... he's dedicated it... I came on the tour in the hope of spending some more time with him but it doesn't look meant to be. I see more of James Stevenson to be honest. I've seriously considering rooming with Big Jim on tour instead of Mike. 'Rooming' is where you decide who will be your most compatible mate for the duration of the tour. James and I are obviously quite compatible in that we share a love of all things 'sharp'.... Mike P and James are compatible as they share a love of pawn shops amongst other things... Nightrider and Steve Grantley share a Stiff Little Fingers compatibility ... Dirk and Michael Jones are compatibly Welsh and Ladies man... well, he's compatible with almost everyone :)

And so it goes...We're a happy bunch on the road. All 8 of us have been getting on famously and that really counts for something when you're all cooped up together clocking the miles across America. James and I spend much of our time tapping away the miles on our rock'n roll laptops. As the American countryside flashes by, this is where I play catch up with MPO mail
in conjunction with the MPO staff back in Wales. I'm usually taping away for 8 hours at a time in order to stay on top of things. I'm aided and abetted by my rather glitzy state of the art 'rock chick' G3 Apple Macintosh Powerbook. Oe er. I adore her and she makes the possibilities endless... Here out on the long and winding road we can do almost anything, download pics, download video footage, create artwork and most importantly, 'she'turns into the 21st Century DVD Cinema for those massive nightdrives.

...Ah, I see the Sharpening Club is ready for customers and so I must bid you farewell, for now at least... Thanks for listening... I'll be back with more news and views from the long and winding road in a few days time....
Yours moose droolingly,

Miss Jules xxx

Concert Preview

Taking their cue from the energy and passion of Britain's punk explosion of
the late 70's, The Alarm burst out of Wales in the early 80's with songs -
such as "The Stand", "Blaze of Glory" and "Sixty Eight Guns" - that weren't
merely music but calls to arms.

Almost a decade after leaving the group - which effectively led to its
dissolution - singer and songwriter Mike Peters has taken up The Alarm
mantle again, releasing on his own label a nine disc box set called The
Alarm Complete" and mounting a tour.

"There's a lot of people - myself included - that have got a lot of emotion
invested in these songs," Peters says. "There are songs that carried people
through traumatic moments in their lives and euphoric moments in their
lives.

"Hopefully, this tour is a celebration of the songs. It's my way of paying
tribute to a certain era of my life really and celebrating that. It's great
to touch base with everybody because as you move through life everyone goes
separate ways."

And that includes the original band. Though the other three original members
all contributed their reminisces to the box set, none is participting in the
American tour.

"I actually approached all the band to try and tour together as the original
line-up, but it wasn't to be," Peters says. "Dave Sharp, the guitarist,
lives in New Orleans and he's a singer-songwriter and he didn't want to be a
sidekick guitar player for me. He's happy doing his solo thing. [Bassist and
Alarm co-songwriter Eddie Macdonald is a photographer in London now. He
played on the British tour we did earlier this year but he didn't want to go
any further afield with it. (Drummer) Nigel Twist is in San Francisco. He's
a public defense investigator".

Though not a true Alarm reunion, Peters says the fans' reaction to the tour
has been overwhelmingly positive.

"To go back and play all the old songs with me being the only original
member of the band on tour - I thought it would be a challenge to put it
across, but everybody's been going mad for it," he says. "Fans have kept the
music of The Alarm alive without us actually playing it. They've passed it
down and there's lots of people coming out on this tour who have never seen
The Alarm. They've just heard the music and are coming out to hear it
performed live by me and a great band."

Though Peters released solo albums throughout the 90's - in his words they
were "more visible in Europe than over here" - he won't perform any of that
material this time around.

"This tour is about touching a moment that's based in nostalgia," Peters
says. "But as an artist there's a challenge for me to say, "Right, all my
music has come from this. Everything I did in the '90's has its roots in the
music I created in the '80's, so my aim is to unify the two periods to
enable me to make music of meaning for the next decade."

GREAT DISCUSSIONS

If you are interesting in discussing The Alarm, Mike Peters, The Alarm 2000, Coloursound, or buying, trading, and selling memorabilia andrecords, head on over to the Discussion Forums. We have a great group of fans who have been discussing all sorts of topics relating to the music, without all the clutter and noise found on some of the other internet resources dedicated to The Alarm and related solo artists.

GREAT ARTICLES

We have added some great articles about The Alarm 2000 In the past few days from all over the USA. Check them out in thearticles section.

As well, we have added some great archived articles from the 80's about The Alarm. You can check those out here

There's this old U2 bootleg out there somewhere, and on it is a one-of-a-kind version of Knockin' on Heaven's Door from New Year's Eve 1982. Trading verses on the song were Bono of U2, Stuart Adamson of Big Country and Mike Peters of The Alarm.

"'The new breed,' as Bono described us," Peters says with a chuckle.

The fascinating thing is that at the time, any of the three could have broken through to superstardom. Big Country had had the biggest success, with the song In a Big Country. U2 had two fine albums under its belt but had yet to break through. (It was months away from its legendary Red Rocks appearance.) And The Alarm looked poised to take the world by storm.

With blustery, strident hits such as Marching On, 68 Guns, Blaze of Glory and The Stand, the Scottish band made an impact on both sides of the Atlantic. It continued to have worldwide hits with Rain in the Summertime and Sold Me Down the River, still standards on Denver radio. But the band never got the one huge break that would put it over the top.

"There were a lot of factors, a combination of all of them, really," Peters says. "The one thing we didn't have for us, when you look at it in the cold light of day, was that U2 was on a major, major record label and we were on an independent label. We were never going to get the same amount of investment as U2 did.

"(And) U2 was great at hanging in there. We sort of fell out. Things could have gone through the roof, but we were slowed down by internal band politics."

He adds: "I think people weren't quite sure if we were for real or not, for whatever reason. Maybe we were too nice. I don't know. I think people realize now that we were for real."

It's great to have that vindication, even after the fact.

"That's what made The Alarm a very colorful band," he says. "There's a great rock 'n' roll story in The Alarm. There's a lot of dirt that goes with the glory."

And some of the fighting continues. While Peters is touring the United States with a reconstituted version of the band, dubbed The Alarm 2000, his former band mates are objecting to his using the name. Peters will front the band and play Alarm songs at the Buffalo Rose in Golden tonight.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Alarm 2000
When and where: 10:30 p.m. today, Buffalo Rose, 1119 Washington St., Golden (doors open at 8 p.m.)

Cost: $12

Information: (303) 279-5190


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"U2's music took them a different route, but we're still playing," Peters says. "At the end of the day, it's all about the music. It all comes down to that. The fame and the money and the size is a byproduct."

To make sure the music survived, Peters has spent the past couple of years making it accessible. The Alarm 2000: Complete Collection is a nine-CD boxed set that became Peters' labor of love after his 1994 battle with cancer.

He went around the world tracking down the band's master tapes and in the process saved a cache of lost masters that were about to be thrown out.

"I have copies of everything, but not the first generation," Peters says. His quest to track down the most perfect master tapes led him to a storage facility in London, where the now-defunct IRS Records (home of acts as diverse as R.E.M., General Public and The Go-Go's in the '80s) had a vault full of tapes.

The only problem was, the record company quit paying rent on the vault in '94, when it went under.

"They were three days from throwing it all out" when Peters got to the vault a year ago, he says. "There was loads and loads of stuff of interest. It was all kinds of weird and wonderful things from The Fall and Lords of the New Church. There were a lot of 2-inchers (tapes) from R.E.M. I think it was Fables of the Reconstruction that they did in London. There was a lot of stuff there, some live things as well, that IRS London had compiled on the band. I'm sure R.E.M. management will be interested to pore through it."

His own tapes were also in there. In e-mail from fans, "they were able to point out that some of our best music was not on albums but on B-sides or obscured on the far end of a 12-inch release that had only come out in Japan or something," Peters says. "I took that all into account when I was remastering. My aim was to excite people about the music, not just Alarm fans but people who didn't know about the Alarm,... people who didn't like the band or didn't get it the first time around."

So it's all here — every album track, all the B-sides, the IRS demos, alternate versions, everything.

If that weren't enough, Peters decided to take it a step further. People who ordered the box through www.thealarm.com for 99 English pounds (about $168 U.S.) got to pick any Alarm song and Peters would record a solo acoustic version just for them — the ultimate personalization of the box.

He expected a couple of hundred responses. It's now well into the thousands, with fans requesting every single song the band ever recorded, as well as a few it didn't.

"They came in thick and fast. At first I thought it would be something for the real die-hard," Peters says. "I thought I'd go the extra mile for them, but it has turned into a bit of an avalanche. At first I thought, 'Oh God, this is going to be a hell of a job.' But then I realized it was just another process of making music in a different way. It's a one-on-one music experience, which you don't really enter into that often when you're playing for the masses. You're hoping millions of people will like your songs and your albums, and that's the frame of mind you're in. With these dedications, I realized I was just doing it to be played in one person's front room. It may be a recording that only that person is going to hear for the rest of all time."

Mike Peters is flattered that people still remember The Alarm a decade after its final album. But he also knows that the Welsh band hasn't remained important in fans' lives because of the personalities in the group.

"I believe it was all about the songs," Peters said. "The songs are the stars. Forget Mike Peters. That's what makes the connection - the songs. People make connections with the lyrics that are important in their lives, that mean something to them at certain moments. We had a lot of those moments with our fans."

In the United States, fans first made a connection with The Alarm in 1983 when "The Stand" hit the radio and the band opened U2's "War" tour.

With its acoustic/electric, Bob Dylan-meets-The Clash sound, The Alarm delivered impassioned rock and generated its first Top 40 hit with "Strength," the title cut of its second album.

In the mid- to late '80s, The Alarm was sharing the stage with the likes of Dylan and Neil Young, developing a reputation for its powerful live shows while continuing to make solid, substantial records.

In 1991 Peters left the band because the other members wanted guitarist Dave Sharp to take over some of the singing duties and other songwriters to have more prominence.

That version of The Alarm never managed to make an album, however, and the band died. But Peters has done all he can to keep its memory and the songs alive.

"I've been campaigning for a number of years to have The Alarm albums reissued on CD," Peters said. "I managed to get the rights back to reissue the catalog, so I decided for once in my life to stop looking forward, take a look back and play a greatest-hits tour."

To do the tour, which will stop at the Royal Grove Saturday night, Peters put together a band he calls The Alarm 2000. Joining him will be guitarist James Stevenson, who played with Generation X and Gene Loves Jezebel, drummer Steve Grantley from Stiff Little Fingers and bassist Richard Llewellyn.

"The band I have is probably better and more spirited than the original lineup," Peters said. "That was a real challenge to me. I only would have done it if it was better, and it's better because we have a unified vision."

The focus of the tour is "The Alarm 2000 Collection," a nine-CD boxed set that Peters assembled after obtaining the rights to the original recordings from EMI. Released on his own 21st Century Recording Company label, the set is available at the band's Web site, www.thealarm.com.

Those who purchase the set can select a favorite song that Peters will record live at the concert they attend and include in the package - a recording industry first.

To launch "The Alarm 2000 Collection," Peters played a 12-hour show in North Wales in which he did every Alarm song - a massive undertaking that was almost by definition a solo project.

"I don't think anyone could learn 90 songs to play in one day," Peters said. "Because I wrote them all, they're embedded in my spirit. I have instant recall of all the songs. It's mad, I know. But it's true."

In addition to keeping the memory of The Alarm alive on the Web and in concert, Peters has continued with a solo career and produced a handful of records, including two collaborations with Cult guitarist Billy Duffy.

But you won't hear any of his solo material at Saturday night's show.
"If it's being billed as The Alarm 2000, and it's about that music. It wouldn't be fair to do that (solo material)," Peters said. "If there's another tour and people want me to come back, then we'll mix it up."

When he began working on an Alarm box set, the last thing singer Mike Peters expected to find were R.E.M. live recordings, studio masters, and outtakes. But that's exactly what he came across, says Peters, along with recordings for his own band and Lords of the New Church. And it was all just three days away from the trash bin.

It was his obsession with finding the original master tapes for the new Alarm 2000: Complete Collection box set that led him to a London storage locker filled with tapes left by the now-defunct IRS, the indie label that was home to many influential '80s bands. Rent hadn't been paid on the storage lockers for years, Peters said, and he finally tracked down the tapes just before the lockers were to be cleaned out for good.

"There was loads and loads of stuff that was of interest," Peters says. "It was all kinds of weird and wonderful things from The Fall and Lords of the New Church. There were a lot of 2-inchers [tapes] from R.E.M. I think it was Fables of the Reconstruction that they did in London. There was a lot of stuff they did with [producer] Joe Boyd there, including some live things as well, that IRS London had compiled on the band. I'm sure R.E.M. management will be interested to pore through it."

R.E.M.'s manager, Bertis Downs, says that he was unaware of the tape find and thought the band's masters were safely in storage in California. The band did record Fables in London, Downs said, so the band will check into it.

Peters, who came across the tapes a year ago, had received EMI's permission to put the Alarm collection together, but his tapes weren't the best. "I have copies of everything, but not the first generation," he says, adding that "there were massive holes" in his collection.

The London vault contained all the missing masters, as well as outtakes that Peters had forgotten existed, such as the electric version of "One Step Closer to Home." They were found and included in the box set, which is available only through the official Alarm Web site (www.thealarm.com).

"There was some great stuff from the live locker, as well," Peters says. "I found a master tape of an early gig in the Marquee in London from late 1982. There was a live version of 'Deceiver' on there that I didn't even know we had."

He found other historic shows, including the last-ever Alarm show in the original lineup from 1991. "EMI has been talking to me now about doing some sort of live anthology," he says. "That was obviously an area of the band that wasn't represented. We never put out an official live album."

Peters is currently on tour in the United States with a reconstituted version of the band, also dubbed the Alarm 2000, doing electric versions of the band's songs, which he has toured acoustically on his own for the past few years. The massive nine-CD Alarm box includes everything the band released on album, as well as demos, outtakes, rarities, and a personalized acoustic version of any Alarm song recorded for each buyer of the $168 set.

“We’re going to rock Missoula, aren’t we?” The Alarm 2000 hits the Ritz this Tuesday.

The Alarm is still the hardest-working band in Britain

Say what you will about aging frontmen and the occasional overstayed welcome, but so far no one can touch Mike Peters of the Alarm for his work ethic. To celebrate the UK release of The Alarm 2000 Collection, a remastered nine-CD set containing the band’s complete recorded works, Peters recently performed acoustic renditions of every single song in the Alarm catalogue for an exclusive fan club concert in North Wales. The performance lasted 12 hours.

“Yeah, well, there was a lot of chat,” Peters told the Independent last week, “A lot of stories to be told. But I was onstage for 12 hours and I played close to a hundred songs.”

The Alarm. Early ’80s. Ireland had U2, Scotland had the bristling highland reveille of Big Country, and Wales had the fired-up lefty minstrelsy of the Alarm. They occasionally sang in Welsh and had a policy of having only Welsh-speaking bands open for them in their home country. As a young American, alas, back when alternative really was, you’d have to have been in on the ground floor with those first Cure and Smiths records to remember much of what the Alarm were doing at about the same time. They never blew the top off the American scene quite like U2 did, but they racked up at least a couple of bona fide hits stateside. You probably remember “Rain in the Summertime.” Don’t make me sing it for you.

But Mike Peters will. For you, if you like, because the other amazingly labor-intensive thing he’s been up to, besides managing a healthy solo career of his own, is fielding requests for personal dedications to be included with boxed sets ordered over the Internet. It’s like this: You request your song when you order the set online (www.thealarm.com), Peters records a personally dedicated acoustic version live to mini-disc (in this case, at the Ritz), bounces it to CDR, mixes it down and burns a personalized CD to either be mailed out or picked up from Peters himself after the lights go up. Nothing like this has really been attempted before. Has the response been overwhelming?

“I wasn’t expecting it to become what it’s become,” says Peters. “I thought it would appeal only to the hardcore fans, but it seems to have caught a lot of people’s imaginations. And it’s a new way of making music, isn’t it? When you’re writing songs you imagine playing them for hundreds of people, but this really makes the music a one-to-one experience. I like to do things differently, and I like to do things that represent the Alarm in a dignified way.”

Peters says he’s psyched about visiting Missoula. Last time he was in Montana, he only made it as far as Butte—where the Alarm filmed the video for 1989’s “Sold Me Down the River” with director Tim Hunter (River’s Edge).

“We’re going to blow Montana away,” he says, testing the mouthfeel of good ol’ Yankee hyperbole. “We’re going to rock Missoula, aren’t we?”
The Alarm 2000 play the Ritz this Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 10 PM. Cover $5.

The Alarm 2000 Day transcription has been updated with Mike's comments about The Alarm's third full album. You can view it here.

A new Jules News is available now. Catch up with Jules and The Alarm 2000 tour.

As well, Nigel Twist seems to be a bit miffed at venues using the name "The alarm" instead of The Alarm 2000 for the tour. You can read all about it here .

JULES' USA NEWS

ApallIingly late but here it is... Jules’ USA news...

Where has the time gone? 2000 has been something of a blur in the Petersworld. I barely see Mp these days, ‘he’ of the dedication maker... We’ve been on the road with Big Country, with Mike Peters and now with Alarm 2000. We’ve been off road, compiling the much-applauded Alarm 2000 Collection where Mike spent the better part of the last two years, never giving up in his pursuit of making the Alarm records available on compact disc throughout the world. As sole distributor of the Alarm 2000 collection, the MPO has expanded into a fully working record companyy, an experience that we are enjoying to the full.

We have become pretty much self sufficient for the year 2000. We have been employing the press direct, dealing with the agents direct and MPO is now the exclusive management office of Mike Peters, Alarm 2000 and Coloursound. As well as dealing with the mountain of ‘fan contact’, the office is also coping with all the hustle and bustle of managing an artist who tours all across the world and who now has a total of 18 titles on his label, 21st Century Recording Company.

Mike is loving every minute of it. Recently quoted as ‘saying yes to everything and dealing with it later’, Mike’s feet have barely touched the ground, so much so, ‘he’ the holder of the Man Utd season ticket has not even seen his beloved reds this season!

On top of that, Mike was approached by a young band, X-ELL who turned up with their mum on his doorstep on the back of their dad’s milk float (I kid not) asking for Mike’s help. The band were so impressive (aged 11, 15 and 17) that Mike agreed to help, and recently successfully negotiated a publishing deal for Xell with Universal. Watch out for the boys at a future concert as they are all now budding Alarm fans!

Mike and I also indulged in a bit of role reversal with my annual holiday, (I mean job) with the Mission as their official ‘merch bird’ in the UK. Lots of fun and frolics were had by all and Mike even managed to join us at the end of the tour and drink himself into a Stella Artois stupor at the London’s Shepherds Bush Empire. I seem to remember him and Wayne Hussey snogging at one point at the Aftershow and I definitely remember him puking all the way back up the M40 back to Wales :)

Puking on tour is usually my speciality. In new strange and undiscovered territory that is, places like Japan, Mexico, not Shepherds Bush. I have a feeling Missoula might be my place of puke on this American Second Generation Tour. It’s a tough life, struggling to drink the rider of endless chilled corona. I have to stay away from the screwdrivers (God love the American measures) after I once left the entire night’s merchandise takings on the dash of the bus after a spectacular drunkard session in Kansas City ( and yes, it was my first visit).

It’s been a spectacular start to the US tour actually. Here we are as Alarm 2000, (that is Mike, Jim, Dirk and Steve for the record and not Mike, Eddie, Dave and Nigel) charging through California and it has to be said the fans are loving it, loving hearing Alarm songs played in their full electric glory. I’m in the firing line, fronting the MPO desk, meeting all creeds of Alarm fans and it is very touching to see the positive effect of this Second Generation tour.

We’ve had to rename Dick Llewellyn, ‘Dirk’ after a Californian fan (trying to get us pissed on shots in Hollywood’s Barneys Beanery) was horrified by the name ‘Dick’ and all its implications in the U.S.. of A. " I mean it’s like being called Willie in the UK!" said ‘he’ of the lover of ‘Declaration’. I didn’t like to tell him that we had plenty of Willies on the other side of the pond.

I’ve been having quite a ball actually, touching base with all the American fans (please don’t tell Pete at MPO as I have convinced him 4 weeks out of the office is a necessity) and relinquishing tour management control to the original Alarm stalwart, Lighting Engineer and Tour Manager, Bobby Blue Troman. Bob’s captaining an admiral ship and all 8 of us are having a blast.

There’s Big Jim, my all time fave guitarist who has mastered Sharp’s licks to perfection, there’s Dirk of Cartoon and Poets fame, enjoying his first trip to Californina and Steve Grantley /Heath Rowe of Stiff Little ‘Chicken’ Fingers fame powering the whole thing together with his unbelievable rhythms. All the guys have studied the Alarm catalogue with academic attention and the result is having a dramatic effect on diehard Alarm fans everywhere. What you get on this Second Generation tour is pure and unadulterated Alarm greatest hits.

Keeping it all together is Bobby ‘Ladies Man’ Blue on logistics and lights, Steve Jones (no relation) keeping the backline in check and Mike Jones (no relation), engineering the sound and keeping the dedications in check.

Mike is recording dedications on the night for people who make their requests in advance or on the night of the show. It makes the whole evening pretty edgy as Mike is kept guessing all night as to what he is expected to play and the dedication chooser sits on the edge of his seat awaiting his special ‘three minutes’!

Billy of Duffy fame joined us at Hollywood’s Key Club and we hung out for breakfast together planning the next flurry of Coloursound activity. Looks like there will be some kind of US official release and of course commencement of work on a future Coloursound album. Billy and Ian Astbury have just started on the new Cult album so if you are a fan, expect some kind of release next year.

Wayne of Hussey fame came to say ‘Hullo’ at the sold out Santa Ana show in the very lovely Southern California’. I’m also in charge of the Mission merchandise for their forthcoming European November tour so the King of the Goths and I were able to play ‘catch up’.

As Mike doesn’t seem to understand the word vacation, this is as close as it gets. We had managed to squeeze in a little rest and recreation earlier in the year in the Balaeric Islands but the tan lines are already starting to fade. Lets hope Alarm 2000 hits Hawaii in the Spring as promised. You never know...

So as we cruise away from gorgeous California into the spectacular scenery of Oregan, I’ll love and leave you. For those of you planning to attend the shows, please drop by and say hello. It’s been a pleasure to see y’all so far. To the Fultons (webmasters extraordinaire), Dougieieieieie from Texas, Martin all the way from England, Nancy from Texas, Matt, the original UK Alarm fan, now resident in Cal-if-ornia and so many more. It’s been a pleasure...

Ciao for now,

Miss. Jules XXX

Nigel Twist alleges that some U.S. venues are billing Mike Peters/Alarm 2000 dates as simply the Alarm.

Drummer Nigel Twist of the Alarm said he plans to file an injunction to keep the band's former frontman, Mike Peters, from touring under the Alarm's name.

According to Twist, Peters--who is currently playing old Alarm material while touring under the official moniker Mike Peters/Alarm 2000--signed an agreement relinquishing all rights to the Alarm's name when he left the group in 1991.

Twist, claiming that Peters never asked for permission to tour under the Alarm's name, said he became upset when he discovered that some venues in the United States are advertising Peters' concerts simply as the Alarm.

"It's one of those errors of convenience," said Twist, who currently works a public defense investigator in San Francisco. "It's a little like someone giving you a big hug while reaching for your wallet."

Peters did not wish to comment on the matter, his publicist said.

The San diego show went down a storm as well. Another packed-house was thrilled by the all The alarm songs played. Mike even had people jumping on-stage this time around.

...

This is just a quick note to say that the "Alarm 2000" tour is off to a blistering start. The first Gig on the 12th at The Key club in Hollywood was exceptional. A massive crowd (250-300) for a Thursday night was in attendance, and they all went mad for Mike and the band. Justice was done to the songs (and then some), and the 5th member of the band (the audience) came out in full force. As the band attcked each song, more and more of the crowd was swept into a frenzy, until the final Blaze Of Glory, which was socks-knocked-off brilliant. The crowd ate it all up, and the band knew it, smiling almost through the entire set. The Key club management told Mike after the show that they had not seen anything like it in years. Crowds just don't sing-along and get excited like the days of old. The Sunset Strip broke its cool (for one night at least) and real rock and roll had returned.

The next night at The Galaxy Theater in Santa Ana was even better. A sell-out crowd on 650+ plus reacted much the same as at the Key club, just louder and more enthusiastic. It was an awesome sight to see Alarm songs played to people who truly appreciated them.

Below is a great article from Allstar News about the Key club show:



Strength, Perseverance Fuel Alarm Return In Los Angeles
Oct 13, 2000, 11:00 am PT


Mike Peters
While only a remnant remains of the original Alarm lineup -- singer-songwriter Mike Peters -- the music of the Welsh-based, socially-conscious rock outfit is still as powerful as ever, as evidenced by the kickoff of the band's 2nd Generation tour at the Key Club in West Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday (Oct. 12).

Appropriately enough, Peters and his Alarm 2000 counterparts (guitarist James Stevenson [Generation X, Gene Loves Jezebel], drummer Steve Grantley [Stiff Little Fingers], and bassist Richard Llewellyn), launched into "Marchin' On," from 1984's Declaration, to kick off the first American show in nine years billed as the Alarm. For Peters, who has achieved mild solo success in the U.K. since the band's breakup in 1991 and still has a rabid fan following across the pond, the sentiment rings especially true. The 41-year-old Welshman battled throat cancer and a 60 percent chance of survival decree by doctors in 1994 and -- in a much less important fight by comparison -- I.R.S. Records for control over the entire Alarm back catalog, both of which he won.

So to say its been a long and winding road for Peters to Thursday's show in West Hollywood would be to say the Pope is Catholic. As the anthemic rock battle cries began spouting forth, many of which concentrated on 1985's Strength, it became clear the performance would not only be a lesson in nostalgia but a seminar in evocative rock and roll as well. In days where inconsequential teen pop and uninspiring rage rock rule, true songwriting with a message and a meaning goes a long way, even if it comes from a band which never could shake comparisons to U2 and hasn't stirred the masses in a decade.

As Peters and his Alarm version 2.0 rattled off the first five songs ("Marchin On," "Where Were You When the Storm Broke?" "Knife Edge," "Deeside," and "Majority") like rapid-fire semi-automatic machine guns, with little or no break between, the Key Club assembly fired lyrics right back in appreciative retaliation. Peters introduced "One Step Closer to Home" as his favorite song the band ever did, despite the fact that original guitarist Dave Sharp forgot the initial version after a three-day bender. Despite that setback, the electric version of the song appeared on Strength, while a gorgeous acoustic version surfaced later on 1987's Eye of the Hurricane. Thursday's crowd was treated to the former, which bellowed with as much earnest as it did back in 1985.

Even more touching, however, was Peters' fan dedication. For those who don't know, Peters has re-released the entire Alarm back catalog in box set fashion at thealarm.com (allstar, Sept. 11) and fans who purchase it receive a personal dedicated song of their choice, which Peters will record especially for the occasion, with their set. Peters aims to handle as many of those requests live as possible, so Thursday night Alarm fanatic Tony Fox granted his wife the gift of a lifetime -- a poignant rendition of "Walk Forever by My Side," complete with a relayed message from Peters, which the couple walked home with in CD form.

As the night worn on past Midnight (the band didn't surface until 11 p.m.), the one-two-three punch of 1987's "Rain in the Summertime" and "Rescue Me" and 1985's autobiographical "Spirit of '76" captured the pure essence of the Alarm. If not for being three of the group's most popular songs, but for capturing a moment of days gone by. As Peters sang "We had something going once, but that was a such a long, long time ago," one could imagine -- if even for a fleeting moment -- that rock and roll was free again.

Alarm set list:

1. "Marchin' On"
2. "Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke?"
3. "Knife Edge"
4. "Deeside"
5. "Majority"
6. "One Step Closer to Home"
7. "Unsafe Building"
8. "Absolute Reality"
9. "We Are the Light"
10. "Walk Forever by My Side"
11. "The Deceiver"
12. "The Stand"
13. "Sold Me Down the River"
14. "Strength"
15. "Rain in the Summertime"
16. "Rescue Me"
17. "Spirit of '76"


Encore:
18. "68 Guns"
19. "Blaze of Glory"



-- Kevin Raub

http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/001016/story3.html

Read Mike's comments about Declaration and Strength in the newly updated Alarm 2000 Day Transcription

http://www.cdnow.com/cgi-bin/mserver/SID=1694129085/pagename=/RP/ALLSTAR/article.html/fid=226597

http://www.mikepetersweb.com/alarm2000day.asp

The leader of a long-defunct pop group mounts a tour using the old group's name but none of the other original members.

No, it's not the Supremes; this time it's '80s Welsh rock band the Alarm.
Singer Mike Peters hit the Alarm's "off" button during a 1991 show in London by announcing, "This is my last moment with the Alarm," then walking off stage, seemingly for good.

Nine years later, however, Peters is about to embark on a 14-city U.S. tour, which opens tonight at the Key Club in West Hollywood, without former cohorts Dave Sharp (guitar), Nigel Twist (drums) or Eddie Macdonald (bass).

"There's this new nine-CD box set out, and through our Web site, fans said they wanted to see us playing live again," Peters explains. "So I decided to hit the road. I tried to put the original band members together for the tour, but they've all got other jobs or commitments now. They told me to carry on, regardless."

Sharp, however, sees it a bit differently; he heard about the new tour secondhand.
"I was shocked when Nigel told me about it," he said in a separate interview. "If the Alarm songs are not performed by the original band members together, then everything we fought for as a band, including our integrity, is severely compromised since the band's strength had its roots in our friendship."

* * *

As for Twist (real name Nigel Buckle), what began with a smile quickly soured.
"Mike did call and ask if I wanted to contribute to the [boxed set] project and, at the beginning, I was happy that the Alarm's material had been compiled in such a thorough and professional manner," says Twist, who now works in San Francisco as an investigator for the public defender's office.

"But I couldn't start a tour on such short notice, and people who know the Alarm will be royally duped when they show up and find three strangers onstage.

"It wasn't Mike's band," Twist adds. "All four members of the Alarm brought a unique chemistry to the music that's something others can't duplicate. An Alarm tour should be a reunion and a glorious tribute to a lot of hard work."

Peters points out he is touring as the Alarm 2000, "so that right there says this is something different." Advertisements for the two Southland shows (tonight's a Friday stop at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana) have listed the show simply as the Alarm.

"The whole point," Peters adds, "is to pay tribute to the Alarm, and from the stage each night I dedicate the show to Nigel, Dave and Eddie. In fact, the door is open to all of them. If Dave wants to phone me up tomorrow and say, 'I'm gonna join the tour,' we've got a spare amp and a guitar."

The group Peters has assembled for the tour consists of lead guitarist James Stevenson (Generation X, Gene Loves Jezebel), drummer Steve Grantley (Stiff Little Fingers) and bassist Richard Llewellyn (Jess, Cartoon).

The Alarm's status as a critically dismissed group adored by fans for its anthems of optimism and spiritual yearning gives it a timely parallel to yet another high-profile band: Creed.

Still, is there a place for the Alarm 2000 in a pop kingdom ruled by Eminem, Limp Bizkit and various boy bands?
"I haven't really got a master plan, other than to pay my respects to where I've come from as an artist," offers Peters. "I hope people don't see us as some kind of nostalgic museum piece. There's this whole rock lineage--from Woody Guthrie to Bob Dylan to even someone like Korn--that continues to evolve. I think we're an ongoing part of that."

And what about charges that he's minimizing the roles played by Sharp, Macdonald and Twist by replacing them with hired guns?

"You wonder what people would think if the Beatles went on the road without John Lennon, or if Paul McCartney toured without the other three," said Peters. "But from my point of view, the challenge is to make the Alarm 2000 fly without the other three. I don't know yet, but I think I can."

* The Alarm 2000 plays tonight at the Key Club, 9039 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 8 p.m. $17.50. (310) 786-1712. Also Friday at the Galaxy Theatre, 3130 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana. 8 p.m. $16.50 and $18.50. (714) 957-0600.

Original Alarm band member Mike Peters.
He survived the hairspray damage of the '80s. He survived the constant comparisons to U2. And on a more serious note, he survived a bout with throat cancer.

Mike Peters, the frontman who once belted out inspiring anthems like "68 Guns" and "Strength," has been flying solo since the Alarm split in 1995. He's released two solo albums, including his most recent, "Rise." After completing a solo jaunt earliar this year, Peters put together the Alarm 2000 in celebration of the release of a greatest hits box set. And while none of the other Alarm members will be on tour with him, Peters will bust out all of the old favorites from his big-haired, cowboy boot-wearin' days.

http://www.livedaily.com/news/1974.html

A fantastic article about Mike Peters and The Alarm 2000 has been posted at LiveDaily.com. Read it
here.

Also, a taped interview with Mike is scheduled to be played on Star 98 FM in Los Angeles during their "80's Lunch" on Thursday the 12th sometime during the 12:00-1:00PM hour. You can listen to Star 98 here

The Alarm 2000 show on October 15th at 4th & B in San Diego, CA has not been cancelled. Any posting to that effect has been a mistake.

Mike Peters' all time favourite band, CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION have just
announced that they have signed to Mike's
label, 21st Century. Their new album 'IV' (including the classic 'All Around
the World It's Christmas Time' written by Mike
Peters) is available now, just in time for Christmas. Out now from MPO now
Tel: 01745 571571 [Price £14.99 + £1 p&p $25 + $5 p&p]
or buy it on the MPO store

CHILDREN OF THE REVOLUTION
It was back in 1969 in a school playground in North London that the idea for
The Children of The Revolution first took shape. It was here that school
chums Alain Insane and Rufus Stone, noticing they looked pretty good
together, decided to form a band. A week later they met Vince St. Claire and
Heath Rowe at an inter-school North vs West London soccer tournament and a
legend was born.

Rehearsing in Vince's parent's garage everyday for three years the dynamic
quartet forged their unique and unsurpassed songwriting style. They were
signed after their first gig at a youth club in Chiswick by legendary A+R
man Tuff Ringwood. They were all 18.

The following three years spawned a barrage of hits but it was their third
album, 1974's "Revved Up", which catapulted them to international
mega-stardom selling over 20,000,000 copies in North America alone. The
accompanying tours resulted in scenes unparalleled since the height of
Beatlemania. In 1976 they headed for Thailand to exploit the lucrative
Far-Eastern market. Here the problems set in. The gruelling schedule meant
114 gigs on the trot without Match Of The day or Coronation Street and with
a mountain of radio, press and personal appearances on top band tensions
inevitably set in. Also the band's incredible songwriting skills had
resulted in a multitude of bands covering their songs in the U.K. most
notably Slade, Sweet and Status Quo. However Marc Bolan had covered their
second most famous song "Geddit On" but with a slight lyric change had
claimed it as his own. The resulting famous litigation wore the band down
although they finally settled out of court for an undisclosed three figure
sum. Rufus had also become increasingly disillusioned with Alain and Vince's
preoccupation with the new Punk Rock. It all came to a head on the final leg
of the tour at the second to last gig in Phuket. On January 6th 1977 the
band split. When asked about it afterwards Rufus cited the ubiquitous
musical differences. "I was musical and they were different" he told N.M.E.

Alain and Vince headed back to England. Heath went on a ten year round the
world spending spree and Rufus headed to Nepal where he spent two years in a
Buddist monastry contemplating the future.

Vince immediately joined punk band Chelsea, later joining Billy Idol in the
final incarnation of Generation X. Alain surfaced a couple of years later
with his own punk band The Alarm who had some hits of their own. Rufus,
having returned from Nepal, was incensed and realised to exorcise Punk he'd
have to invent a whole new rock genre. He spent two years in a damp cellar
in Hamburg before emerging with the antidote - The Sisters Of Mercy and
Gothic Rock. Punk was a thing of the past. Rufus became a seminal figure in
the "Goth" movement, later forming another influential goth band The
Mission.

But they all secretly pined for The Rev (as The Children of the Revolution
had affectionately become known) and Glam Rock. To this end Vince even
joined semi-glam goth band Gene Loves Jezebel for a number of years.

In 1993 Rufus was invited to join The Cult and when Vince was drafted in on
rhythm guitar a year later the old friends started talking about reforming
The Rev! When The Cult fell apart in Rio half way through the tour Rufus and
Vince contacted Alain upon their return to England. Alain confessed - he was
ready! Heath, who had got into Punk himself and was playing with Stiff
Little Fingers, heard the call up and arrived wearing his trademark pink
featherboa.

After rehearsing every day for three years in Vince's parent's garage The
Rev are back - and ready to rock your world like no other band can.




Tracklisting:
--------------

Blockbuster
Get It On
All The Young Dudes
The Jean Genie
Children Of The Revolution
Motorbikin' (Rufus)
Gudbuy T' Jane (Rufus)
Metal Guru
Jet Boy
Ballroom Blitz
Cum On Feel The Noize
Caroline (Rufus)
All Around The World It's Xmas Time

12th & 13th JANUARY 2001

NORTH WALES CONFERENCE CENTRE, LLANDUDNO, N. WALES

Weekend ticket price £26 + £1 booking fee


The Gathering strikes a chord in the heart of every Alarm and Mike Peters’ fan. This event in Llandudno inspires fans to travel tens, hundreds and thousands of miles to visit and share in the experience of Mike’s music. Some fans from America are applying for international passports for the very first time to make a trip out of their home country to visit Wales, after their lives have been touched by the lyrics and sentiments of Welsh-born Peters. Mike still lives in North Wales and retains strong links with the area despite his constant touring abroad. He looks forward as much as any fan to returning to North Wales for his favourite concert of the year.


For those of you considering attending The Gathering, here's a Gathering checklist:

TRAVEL:

For those of you travelling from overseas, you can either fly into Heathrow, London (this involves approx a 5 hour train journey from London Euston to Llandudno station) or fly into Manchester (approx 2 hour train journey from Manchester Airport to Llandudno station). If you are driving, you need to head towards the M6, M56, A55... follow signs for North Wales, Llandudno and the Promenade. The address of the North Wales Conference centre is... just that... situated on the Llandudno promenade... you can't miss it.

If you don't want to drive then let the train take the strain...(you can even get a direct train from London Euston to Llandudno). Then, it's just a 5 minute taxi drive to the North Wales Theatre. Here is the train time website www.virgin.com 011 44 (0) 845 30 50 300

ACCOMMODATION

(MPO has secured favourable room rates starting from approx £21 per person inc. breakfast where you can 'gather' and party with other like-minded music fans, all against the backdrop of the magnificent Victorian splendour of the Llandudno bay)

Chatsworth Hotel on 01492 860788

Ambassador Hotel on 01492 876886

Queens Hotel on 01492 877218

North Wales Tourist Board on 01492 876413

FORMAT OF THE GATHERING WEEKEND

FRIDAY: DOORS 7.30: MIKE PETERS ACOUSTIC IN THE ROUND. HOT TIP: BE THERE EARLY FOR A GOOD SEAT!

SATURDAY DAYTIME: CLASSIC MPO MASTERMIND QUIZ WITH MIKE PETERS ON HAND TO PRESENT PRIZES!

SATURDAY EVENING: DOORS 7.30 MIKE PETERS ALARM 2000 FULL ON EXPERIENCE. HOT TIP: GET THERE EARLY TO BE NEAR THE FRONT!

Thanks once again for your incredible support. We look forward to seeing you hopefully on the upcoming Alarm 2000 Christmas tour and of course seeing you at the Gathering Weekend on 12th and 13th January 2001...the best is yet to come.... Love and life, MPO



Please read on for a flavour of what the Gathering experience is all about...



THE GATHERING

a fan's guide


Leave home early and head Wales-bound (not as far as you think: Three and a half hours from London Euston on British Rail, 5 hours from Glasgow by coach, 1 hour from Manchester etc etc). Nor is Wales as cold as folk lead you to believe in January. On arrival, take in the Victorian splendour of the Llandudno bay, check in to your MPO Hotel at the bargain price of £20 per night (approx) and be ready to get loaded at The Gathering.


1500 Mike Peters fans crammed into 6 hotels. Chat to your neighbour about your most favourite M.P. gig of the nineties, your favourite track on 'Feel Free' or, if you were an Alarm fan, trawl your memories for obscure gems like the '87 Electric Folklore gig in Wormlowe Tump.


Yes, we are the trainspotter Mike Peters fans. Some of us are Alarm fans who were loyal to Mr. Peters after his sad departure at Brixton Academy, some are early '20 somethings' who discovered M.P. from elder siblings while some of us just liked Mike's first solo album 'Breathe' and jumped on the MPO Bandwagon. We are a clutter of types, from students, to mothers, to traindrivers, to chiropractors, to TV producers, to dentists, to toddlers,to 'A' Level students... who all migrate towards Mike and his songs. A collection of T shirts from '83 to the year 2000...

It's Friday night and we take our seats at the North Wales Conference Centre in preparation for Mike Peters solo and acoustic. This is our 'one on one'. Mike takes the stage in the round, and us on a journey from 'Unsafe Building' through to 'Rise'. Between songs, we catch a glimpse of the bloke behind the songs, as he shares stories and discloses nuggets about life on the road, in the studio, the rows, the highs and the downs. Sipping 'who knows what' from his Man Utd cup he surprises us at each and every turn. He is the only performer we have witnessed who can take the most obscure request and spin it on its head. With a grin and a brief private recollection he smashes down all the preconceptions of an expected singer-songwriter performance and leaves us breathless every time. We all know this kind of night is special. What artist can risk exposing himself so up close and personal, without us, the fans, becoming too close and damaging that magic fan/artist relationship ? But he does it every time. Sure, we see him naked, but he still leaves us wanting more...


Wanting more, us trainspotters regroup to our Hotel, our parties, our post-match discussions and our piped music of 'Second Generation' for the more collectible trainspotter.


Saturday morning and we're performing badly. The Gathering event is sponsored by Millers and of course we sponsor ourselves, again, badly. A motley collection of hungover T- Shirted 'Gatheringites', too tight to miss brekkie (as it's included in the marvellous MPO price of £20!) "Isn't that Mike's mum, over there?" we mutter. "Have you heard that Mike is staying in the room next to me?'" "Yeah right". The rumours mingle and we all ponder on the location of tonight's After Show bash, the party where we all want to be.


Saturday afternoon and we're back in the Conference Theatre. Last night's intimacy has now been transformed into a cinema and we take our seats for 21st Century Films. This is where we are treated to 'fly on the wall' stuff from Mike's own personal vid footage (oo er). It makes cracking viewing and again we get some feel of what it's like to be a rock'n 'roll star. It's funny, revealing, a bit like being in bed with Madonna but without the door being smashed in your face.

Next it's the unmissable Mastermind Quiz where we test our knowledge on all things Alarming and squirm as the tense final throws a spotlight into the super-Alarm-knowledged finalists. The man himself presents the prices and we all tumble outside for the traditional team photie. Saturday afternoon. Not to be missed.


A quick wash under the arms and it's time to queue up outside the Theatre again for the 'big one', and the much sought-after front row position. By now, we're beginning to recognise faces, swapping addresses, making plans. We pour in and the big buzz hits us full in the face. It's that indescribable belly flutter, the bit that makes music your life, the moment when everthing else is forgotten and you're just waiting for the lights to dim, the roar of the crowd, and the band to be there on stage, playing all those songs that you've listened to over and over and over...


F%$* me. Mike and the band strut. The know they've got us by the bollocks. We all know that Peters and Co. can wipe the floor with all bands on this front. There is no set list and we all ride the wave of new songs, old classics, rare gems, future hits and a cluster of covers. Three hours later and we're drenched. All 1500 of us sway in the house lights with our arms outstretched to the stage.


Thousands of gigs of a thousand other bands notched up on 'our' belts but none can light a candle to this. We've rocked, we've grooved, we've been moved, we've bruised, stood silent, we've cried, we've laughed, we've sung-a-long... we've each been a rock'n'roll star for the night.


It's midnight and the weekend is only just beginning. Word has it that the Aftershow bash is at the St. George's Hotel. After much cajoling and wheedling, we're in. "Look, isn't that Mike's mum over there?" "This guy reckons he was at school with Mike". "Do you think Mike will be here?" "Yeah right".


S$%it is Mrs. Peters! Yes, this guy did sit next to Mike in Maths! Shi$, Mike just walked by. That's the beauty of The Gathering Weekend. Dreams do come true. Before we know it we're sat with the locals, we're chatting to Mike's mum and we're an inch away from Mike performing at the Aftershow bash with his alter ego band, The Children of the Revolution! Millers are still the official sponsors and the party bleeds into breakfast.


Sunday morning and we stagger to the Gathering Football Competition, a thoughtful stone's throw away. It's all so compact ! The competition is inspired by Mike, the Cantona-loving Man Utd fan. Some fans have been training for months for this special event while some have given in weakly to Millers last night. We take the piss out of the Yanks who look terrified and wait eagerly to catch a glimpse of Peters in his shorts. We're not disappointed. We shout and bawl and watch 5 lads from Wigan beat Mike and the band. Trophies, a signing session and a few minutes for each of us who dare with the man himself, crowns the weekend. "What do you say to your hero?" Shake him warmly by the hand and shakily tell him that his music changes lives. Phew. Hopefully, Mike feels the same when he meets Eric...


'Some people are too nice to be in the music business. Mike Peters is one of them. For a start, he was pilloried in the music press when he was frontman with The Alarm, for no obvious reason except the fact that he wrote honest issue-driven rock songs and was Welsh. Today, bands have more soapboxes than they know how to get on while being Welsh is enough to get music journailists wetting themselves all over their keyboards. ' (Q Magazine) So the year 2000 and Mike is still Welsh. He's cool. He's making music for today and amassing a network of followers like us, ordinary people who tell the next ordinary person and the next and the next about this singer-songwriter from Wales. If it's hip to be Welsh, then Mike's the hippest dude around.


Sunday lunch and time to leave this oasis. We don't want to leave. We've gathered and it feels good. We reversed the roles. Mike 'stayed' at home and we got to go on tour.


We got loaded at The Gathering. See you next year.






TL@Manchester

Thanks to all of you who attended the sold out Welsh warm up weekend in North Wales. Mike and the band stormed through a blinding set of Alarm hits and classics in preparation for the forthcoming North American tour which begins this week in Hollywood, California. Here's a taster of the songs which Mike and the band played in Rhyl and Wrexham.

Rhyl, October 6th 2000 - Mike Peters Alarm 2000 - 2nd Generation Tour

Marching On
Where Were You Hiding
Knife Edge
Deeside
Majority
One Step Closer To Home
Unsafe Building
Absolute Reality
Unbreak the Promise [Acoustic]
We are the Light [Acoustic]
The Deceiver
The Stand
Howling Wind [Acoustic]
Sold me Down the River
Strength
Rain In The Summertime
Rescue me
Spirit Of 76
68 Guns
Blaze of Glory



Wrexham, October 7th 2000 - Mike Peters Alarm 2000 - 2nd Generation Tour
Marching On
Where Were You Hiding
The Deceiver
The Stand
Deeside
Majority
Unsafe Building
Absolute Reality
One Step Closer to Home (Acoustic)
Sold Me Down the River
Strength
Rain In The Summertime
Spirit Of 76
Rescue Me
Blaze of Glory
68 Guns

* Apologies to those who missed Mike at the Big Country Convention. Due to unforseen circumstances Mike was unable to attend the afternoon session of the Big Country Convention.

The Alarm 2000 Concert at Yales, Wrexham on Saturday October 7th is SOLD
OUT. For those of you still wishing to purchase tickets please call MPO on
01745 571571 to enquire about availability for the Mike Peters Alarm 2000
free show in The Alarm's hometown of Rhyl on Friday October 6th.

Thought Coloursound was gone? Hardly. They have just been in "stealth mode" waiting for the proper time to strike.

Mike and Billy met up in Los Angeles (where Billy was working on songs for the next Cult album) a couple monthsago to discuss the status of Coloursound. A couple weeks ago, Billy was back in the UK, and a similar meeting took place. Mike will be meeting up with Billy again in LA in mid-October, where more plans will be bandied about and finalized.

Here are the current rumors about Coloursound:

1. The debut album will be relased I nthe USA in 2001. Timing will depend o nthe new Cult album, and how far-along it is. If it is close to being finished, they may wait until it is released, and ride its coattails with Coloursound. Otherwise, it may just come out on its own.

2. The USA version of the debut may have a couple bonus tracks.

3. An "acoustic" album has been recorded, and may be released with the debut, in limited package, or all by itself.

4. Mike and Billy intend to record a new album in 2001

More to come soon, so hang-on, Coloursound are back!!!

The Rock the City tour is now over and Dave sure did rock 3 cities. Dave would
like to thank everyone for attending the show and looks forward to any of you
that would like to put your thought of the shows down in writing for the website.

The Official Bootleg CD sold out on the 2nd last show. We have good news for
everyone that couldn't make any of the shows Dave put aside 150 Cd's for the
mailing list members. This will be on a first come first severed bias.

Anyone that would like to reserve a copy the price is L10 that includes postage
and $14 USA that also includes postage. To reserve a copy please reply to this
e-mail or e-mail davesharp.info@ntlworld.com

In the next few Days we will be up dating the website with some of the great
new photo's we would also like if some people could do a review of the New CD
Hard Travellin 2000.

We are in the process of putting together the official SWAMPMASH SITE and beginning
planning for SWAMPMASH 3....news will be revealed soon.

Glad to see to many of you on the road........

See you all soon

James Edmond

www.dave-sharp.co.uk

Official website www.dave-sharp.co.uk

Mike Peters will play a short acoustic set I nthe afternoon at big Country Day on Oct. 7th, before playing his warm-up gig in Wrexham that evening.

Here is the current information we have about Big Country Day:

Latest Convention News

Please find below the latest news on the BC Convention2000, an event not to
be missed by any BC Fans!

Tickets are not being sent out, names shall be on the door, and all entrants
shall receive special laminate for the day.

Tickets may be available on the door on the day, subject to availability. We
cannot guarantee entry on the day to people turning up, so to avoid any
potential disappointment, and to ensure entry to this exciting one off show
and event, book your tickets now. Available from Merchandise section.

Minibus for Fans to/from Convention/Hotels: Cancelled due to insufficient
demand.
Appears that majority of attendee's are sharing taxi's etc.
Anyone who has ordered Bus Tickets, please contact Mazzarocks@aol.com for
details of refunds.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but hope those affected
understand. Suggest sharing taxi's with other attendee's, thus ensuring
transport to/from Hotels and Convention is cost effective for all.

Raffle shall be held, with various BC prizes on offer. Raffle tickets can be
purchased on the day.

PELT shall be playing a warm-up show in London @ the Barfly on Friday 6th
October at 8.30pm.

Premiere of Come Up Screaming planned to be broadcast on Saturday 7th
October, with linkup from Convention. Further details to follow in due
course.

Possible screening of video footage never seen by BC Fans ever before.

Surprise guests/performers: More names have been added, the evening's live
music may see the appearance of some unexpected, but welcome, faces. A Must
See Experience!!

BC Merchandise shall be available at the Convention throughout the day.

EXCLUSIVE Merchandise: There shall be merchandise EXCLUSIVELY available at
the Convention. Limited quantity available, make sure you get to the Merch
stall early to avoid disappointment. This Merchandise only available at
Convention and shall not be available elsewhere.

Mike Peters shall now perform an acoustic set in the afternoon. Look out for
surprises in the set!

Evening music shall feature some exciting electric set's with also, a special
one off band lineup NOT to be missed.

Special Guests shall also be performing.

Grand Finale - a one off set not to be missed.

Food and drink shall be available in the venue throughout the day and
evening.


See You There !!!!!


BC Convention2000

ALARM 2000 WARM UP WEEKEND
-------------------------
As a warm up to the Mike Peters and The Alarm 2000 North American Tour a special warm-up weekend will take place on the Fri 6th and Sat 7th October in North Wales at Rhyl and Wrexham:

Due to incredible demand for tickets for the Wrexham show, MPO has added another Welsh warmup show on Friday 6th October at The Marina.
As a thank you to all of you for your amazing support in the year 2000 the Alarm 2000 show in The Alarm's hometown of Rhyl will be free admission. Mike and the band will take the stage at approximately 9.30pm

Friday October 6th @ The Marina Hotel, Rhyl ****ADMISSION FREE****
(Marina Hotel is situated on Rhyl Promenade near The Sun Centre)
Doors 7-30 p.m.

Saturday October 7th @ Yales, Wrexham - Admission £7.00 in advance.
Tel:01978 311857 / 01978 264940
(For those of you attending the Big Country Convention, Mike will be performing a 45minute acoustic set in the afternoon and then heading back up north for the Wrexham concert)

The special guest for the forthcoming UK Alarm 2000 tour which starts on Dec 4th and continues through until the Shepherds Bush Empire on Dec 15th is Spear of Destiny Please call the National CC Hotline on
0115 912 9000 or visit www.gigsandtours.com

The Alarm 2000 Collection is available to order now. at a price of £99.99 + £3 p&p/$168 + $10 p&p The Alarm 2000 Collection is available exclusively from MPO. Delivery takes approx 21 days from placing your order. Please choose your favourite Alarm track for Mike to record especially for you. Please check the website for some amazing Alarm 2000 reviews.

Gathering 9 takes place on the 12th and 13th January 2001. Gathering tickets have been mailed out over so watch your letterbox closely. Please be warned that tickets are selling especially fast this year so early booking is advised. For personal enquiries please feel free to send an email to MPO at mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk

Finalized West Coast Tour Dates For Mike Peters' Alarm 2000 Tour
-----------------------------------------------
10/12/00 Hollywood, CA Key Club
10/13/00 Santa Ana, CA Galaxy Theater
10/14/00
10/15/00 San Diego, CA 4th & B
10/16/00 Santa Cruz, CA Palookaville
10/17/00 San Jose, CA Cactus Club
10/18/00
10/19/00 Portland, OR Berbati's
10/20/00 Spokane, WA Boomerangs
10/21/00
10/22/00 Seattle, WA Ballard Firehouse
10/23/00
10/24/00 Missoula, MT The Ritz
10/25/00
10/26/00 Salt Lake City, UT Club DV8
10/27/00 Golden, CO Buffalo Rose
10/28/00 Lincoln, NE Royal Grove
10/29/00 Dallas, TX Club DA DA
10/30/00 Austin, TX Atomic Café
11/01/00 Scottsdale, AZ Cajun House
11/02/00
11/03/00 San Gabriel, CA Brave Bull

What's OnThe Number One Entertainment Magazine for Birmingham and Central England

The Alarm - Alarm 2000
Twenty First Century

Unfairly tagged a man the barricades outfit in the wake of things like 68
Guns and Blaze of Glory, there was always more depth and passion to Mike
Peters and the band than the rebel rouser sloganeering. Listen again to the
real anger of Deeside's howl at the decline of the shipyards, hear the
emotional poignancy in such elements for Wales as Rose Beyond the Wall and A
New South Wales. And trace their musical roots in covers of Bound for Glory
and Bells of Rhymney. If reassessment's overdue, this provides a perfect
opportunity, an 8 CD box set that gathers all their albums alongside
alternate takes, rarities, mixes and demos that include 17 previously
unreleased tracks and 86 never available on album or CD. All remastered by
Peters with extensive sleeve notes by the entire band, a complete history,
lyrics, gigography and some 200 photos. It cost £99.99, but Peters will also
record your favourite Alarm song as a bonus, dedicated CD. With Mike still
commanding a legion of fans, the storm could well break again. Don't be
caught hiding this time.

Mail order only 01745 571571 or www.thealarm.com

The Alarm have released a nine-CD box set, The Alarm 2000 Collection. The set, available only at the '80s rock band's Web site (www.thealarm.com), consists of the complete recorded works of the band from 1981-1991, as well as a special "dedication" CD. For each fan who orders the set, the band's original lead vocalist and guitarist, Mike Peters, will record the Alarm song of the fan's choice, plus a personalized dedication. Peters will tour as the Alarm 2000 next month in support of the album. The outing kicks off Oct. 12 in West Hollywood, Calif. ...

As a warm up to Mike Peters Alarm 2000 US Tour which kicks off in Hollywood on October 12th, two warm up shows have been arranged in North Wales:

Friday 6th October
The Marina Hotel, Promenade, Rhyl
As a thank you to all of you for your amazing support in the year 2000 the Alarm 2000 show in The Alarm's hometown of Rhyl
will be free admission. Mike and the band will take the stage at approximately 9.30pm

Saturday 7th October
Yales Cafe Bar/Central Station, Wrexham, North Wales.

Tickets priced £7 are available now from the venue or by calling 01978 311857 / 01978 264940


For those of you attending the Big Country Convention, Mike will be performing a 45 minute acoustic set in the afternoon and then heading back up north for the Wrexham concert

The photos below are from the historic Sept. 23rd, 2000 show in which Mike Peters and Dave Sharp shared the same stage for the first time in over 9 years!

MPO is proud to announce the special guest for the forthcoming UK Alarm 2000 Tour as Spear of Destiny. Mike Peters and Kirk Brandon from the Spear of Destiny joined forces with Dave Sharp at Manchester's Band on the Wall last Saturday for a performance of Rockin' in the Free World'. Mike and Kirk are very much looking forward to touring together this Christmas in the UK.

http://www.furia.com/twas/twas0295.html

The place: Band On The Wall, Manchester, UK
The event: Rock The City Benefit Show
The time: Sunday 24th September 1-30am

Nine years & 85 days since leaving the stage of Brixton Academy, Mike Peters walked onto a stage in Manchester to join Dave Sharp in their first love - music.

Earlier in the day they had met for the first time since the day in 1991 that Mike walked out of The Alarm, and Mike watched Dave Sharp & The Hard Travellers perform for the first time.

The Rock The City Benefit was a huge success, with over £2000 raised for The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, with auctions for a Fender Telecaster guitar & Ziljdan cymbal signed by all the participants still on going (see http://www.charliemcintosh.co.uk/)

The Charlie Mcintosh Band kicked off the evening in rocking style. An attempt to do a cover of Dave's "Give Me Back My Job" was interupted halfway through by the man himself, taking over on vocals but without his guitar - a rare sight.

Next up was solo acoustic guitarist Toby Bourke, and then at just before 11-45, the audience was introduced to Mike Peters.
Mike performed two extremely familiar songs - The Stand & The Spirit Of '76 before introducing Dave Sharp & The Hard Travellers.

Dave's set was an upbeat mixture of tracks from his first two albums & couple of new tracks, being joined on a couple of numbers by guest violinist Leslie Smith.

Kirk Brandon & Spear Of Destiny followed, with their fans going crazy on the dancefloor.

As the evening drew to a close, around 1-30 in the morning, the Hard Travellers took to the stage again, joined by the remaining artists. As John Doyle & Charlie Mcintosh played the opening chords of Rockin' In The Free World, Dave & Mike had their arms around each other - a sight many thought they may never see again.

Mike led the vocals on the first verse, with Charlie & Kirk Brandon taking subsequent verses. The chorus saw Mike, Dave & Kirk sharing the microphone - a beatiful sight for all Alarm fans.

All in all a great show - and for a worthy cause as well. Many thanks to all that attended & donated to the fund.
For further details of the Rock The City campaign - see www.charliemcintosh.co.uk for further details.

Dave Sharp's UK tour continues until Sunday 2nd October. See the tour dates section or www.dave-sharp.co.uk for details.

Mike Peters was interviewed on UK's Radio 1 today on Mark and Lard's afternoon show. Mike was interviewed in connection with the recent Rhyl premiere of the 20th Century Fox Jim Carrey movie, 'Me Myself and Irene'. Mike, along with his school friend, (Paul Higginson, who is now the Vice President of 20th Century Fox), and many other Rhylites clubbed their talents together to put Rhyl on the map this week.

CALIFORNIA ALARM 2000 SHOW CANCELLED
The October 14th Alarm 2000 show in Yucaipa has been cancelled by the promoter. There is a possibility another show will be scheduled for this daye. Stay tuned.

MIKE PETERS AND DAVE SHARP
On Saturday 23rd December, Mike Peters will be joining Dave Sharp at the Band on the Wall 'Rock the City' concert in Manchester. It is not known whether Mike will be performing but he will certainly be there in the audience showing his support to Dave. Tickets can be purchased by calling 0161 833 0682

MIKE PETERS ON HIS TRAVELS
Do you ever wonder what Mike gets up to behind the scenes? What does Mike do when he's chilling out from recording another batch of dedication recordings? (Walk Forever By My Side is still winning the dedication race). The associated photographs show Mike at play with Stuart Adamson and Bruce Watson from Big Country, Mike taking time out in New York, Mike visiting the London Eye, Mike and Billy on a brand new year 2000 photo session in Los Angeles, Mike hanging around in Germany... This week Mike will be out socialising with Sex Pistol Glenn Matlock and at the British premiere of Jim Carrey's 'Me, Myself and Irene'... Next week, rehearsals begin in earnest for the future months of Alarm 2000 global touring…

THE ALARM
'The Alarm 2000 Collection'
(21st Century 21C018)
* * * * *

The Alarm were notorious for unwittingly attracting bad press during theirpeak time in the 80's. Enduring frequent comparisons to U2 and The Clash, along with jibes about their admittedly ridiculously airborne hairstyles was all in a day's suffering for the four piece from North Wales.

Yet despite the hub of unfavourable and often downright malicious press, the band secures an army of loyal fans who would arguably still be coming out in droves to see them perform to this day, largely due to their incredible live
shows, which would often extend beyond the two hour barrier.

Former singer and co-songwriter Mike Peters is not oblivious to the band's
cult following and has shrewdly purchased the group's entire back catalogue and released the lot via this boxed set on his own label, Twenty First Century Recordings.

At just one penny short of a hundred quid, it's undeniably expensive but
arguably worthwhile as it contains just about every single track ever recorded by the four piece. Sadly, it's only available via the internet (check out www.thealarm.com) or via telephone mail order through Peters' own
mail order company, tel: (01745) 571571.

The collection is comprised of eight CD's each with its own album sleeve
featuring a booklet of rare photographs. Each sleeve includes candid quotes from the band, which provide a rare insight for fans about the politics that existed both within the group and ther business environment, including the inner squabbles and debates that most bands suffer, but prefer to conceal. The lyrics to every song on the CD are also printed in full.

The CD's are segmented by time frames, with CD One dating back to the early demo years of 1981 to 1983 (before the release of 'Declaration' , the band's debut album) and take the listener all the way up to 1991.

The boxed set also provides some b-side gems that should have made it onto albums. Check out the fabulous 'Second Generation' , an early melodic number and 'Thoughts of a Young Man', originally featured on the flip side of the 12 inch of '68 Guns'.

The boxed set also features 'The Chant has Just Begun' and 'Absolute
Reality', two popular singles from 1984 that should have made it onto the
'Strength' album, but didn't. Also check out the spectacular 12 inch version
of 'Rain in the Summertime', a 1987 Top 20 hit for the band that still sounds good 13 years later.

The less spectacular moments come in the form of the 'Raw' era, the band's
somewhat disjointed final album, wherein guitarist Dave Sharp tripped off down folk-guitar lane while the rest of the band still clearly wanted to
rock.

Overall though, this is an amazingly comprehensive selection of rare songs,
early demos and of course, old favourites and excellent albums, that every fan will want to have in their collection, even if the spikey mullets are
long gone.

MPO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE 2 EXTRA SHOWS IN TEXAS DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND

10/29 Club DA DA 2720 Elm St. Dallas, TX 214 740 5611
10/30 Atomic Cafe 705 Red River Austin, TX 512 476 4676

The all-new MPO discussion board has arrived.
You can get there by going to: http://www.coloursound.com/mpo/discussion.asp>

This new board requires you to register with a valid email address, and confirm your registration with a confirmation code. Many people asked for this, and I've just got around to finishing the program. The boards are much slimmer and easier to use as well.

Happy discussing!

The best review yet for The Alarm 2000 Boxed set is in the new issue of Guitarist. Read it here:
Guitarist

In support of its recently-released nine-CD box set, The Alarm 2000 Collection, the Alarm is launching a U.S. tour on Oct. 12 at the Key Club in West Hollywood, Calif.

During The Alarm 2000 tour, fans who buy the box set, which was released on the band's Web site, thealarm.com, on Aug. 29, will be able to have their favorite Alarm song dedicated to them at the concert they attend. The band will record the song and dedication from that night and include it on the fans' box set purchase. Fans simply fill out a form on the site at the time they purchase the collection, which features a re-mastered catalogue and The Alarm EP on CD for the first time, as well as rare tracks, B-sides, and demo recordings.

Joining the Alarm mastermind Mike Peters on the tour will be guitarist James Stevenson (Generation X, Gene Loves Jezebel), drummer Steve Grantley (Stiff Little Fingers), and bassist Richard Llewellyn.

The Alarm tour dates:
Oct. 12, West Hollywood, Calif., Key Club
Oct. 13, Santa Ana, Calif., Galaxy Theater
Oct. 14, Yucaipa, Calif., Crossroads
Oct. 15, San Diego, 4th & B
Oct. 16, Santa Cruz, Calif., Palookaville
Oct. 17, San Jose, Calif., Cactus Club
Oct. 19, Portland, Ore., Berbati's
Oct. 22, Seattle, Ballard Firehouse
Oct. 26, Salt Lake City, Club DV8
Oct. 27, Golden, Colo., Buffalo Rose
Oct. 28, Lincoln, Neb., Royal Grove
Oct. 30, Austin, Texas, Atomic Café
Nov. 1, Scottsdale, Ariz., Cajun House
Nov. 3, San Gabriel, Calif., Brave Bull

The Alarm
2000 Collection
21st Century Recording Company 21C)18

Singer Mike Peters has put his heart, soul and bank balance into presenting ten years of his life in a box. Here is the entire back catalogue of all the Alarm singles, b-sides, albums and every other official release along with rare tracks, demo tapes, many that have never seen the light of day before and all superbly remastered. It's a truly staggering achievement and beautifully presented with revised track listings and each CD is expanded to cover a particular period of the band's history. But there's even more. For each purchaser is able to choose their favourite track and Mike Peters will record a personally dedicated acoustic version as a bonus CD. It is a real credit to the band and an acknowledgement to what the fans will want. The collection is only avilable by mail order via the band's official website www.thealarm.com or by phone on 01745 571571. It does cost a cool £99.99 but if The Alarm is your favourite band this has got to be a very tempting package, indeed particularly with that unique bonus CD. It's a fantastic achievement and so tastefully done that hopefully it will inspire many other bands to take control of their own recorded past. Nice one Mike!

Roger Newell * * * * *

Two new Alarm 2000 reviews have been added. Both are great. View them here:

Q Magazine
Record Collector

Taking a short break in the wake of the recent flurry of excellent Alarm 2000 reviews, Mike Peters was delighted to be invited to the Children of the Revolution's recording session in Henley on Thames.

Following on from Mike's visit last week to The Rev's legendary comeback show at the Purple Turtle in Reading, Mike was delighted to be invited to attend the recording session of his musical heroes. Alain Insane was so impressed by Mike's Christmas song (which, if you remember, Mike slipped into his pocket at the Purple Turtle) that the Rev are now recording the song and planning to release it as a Christmas single. The MPO is happy to support the campaign ' Let's make the Rev number 1 for Christmas'.

Next week, Mike will be back down to earth with a bump, preparing for the months of Alarm 2000 touring ahead (please check touring schedules) and back in the studio recording those dedications! For those of you in America, recently enquiring about mid-west and east coast dates, MPO will be releasing dates for a Spring 2001 US tour later this year.

The Alarm 2000 collection has been picking up excellent reviews so far. Please see the latest Record Collector and Q Magazine pieces for further information. MPO's US PR, Ken Phillips will be starting the publicity campaign next week. Please feel free to email MPO if you read a press piece near you...

Check in next week for news of Mike Peters and Dave Sharp…

--------

MIKE PETERS LIVE IN CONCERT
Acoustic or Electric, Solo or Band?

AT THE BIG COUNTRY CONVENTION 2000
Saturday 7th October 2000 : University Of Hertfordshire

MIKE PETERS has confirmed that he shall definitely be attending the Big
Country Convention, and that he shall be playing a set in his own right, but
no one knows (or will say) whether he shall be joined by any familiar faces
to the MPO, and whether it shall be acoustic or electric performance. Rumours
are also rife that he may join some members of BC on stage for a one off set,
alongwith other surprise guests, in a Grand Finale of what is certain to be a
great day, for both fans of BC and MP, which shall last for 12 hours+ and be
a day and night of fantastic performances.

THE COUNTRY CLUB IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE BIG COUNTRY 12 HOUR
EXTRAVAGANZA SHALL BE HELD AT:
UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE UHSU
COLLEGE LANE, HATFIELD, HERTFORDSHIRE,
AL10 9AB
12Noon-12Midnight (and beyond, subject to late license).

Tickets:
£10 All day
£5 from7pm (live performances only)

Tickets can be purchased by post (details below) or by visiting the
Merchandise Section of www.bigcountry.co.uk


After last years memorable Convention, the BC Convention2000 is an event NOT
to be missed!
Members of Big Country shall be in attendance, alongwith special guests
including Mike Peters, Simon Townshend, Intervurt, Pelt and possible surprise
guests, performing Live!

Doors open at 12 Noon. The day shall include your chance to become BC
Mastermind2000, Question & Answer Session with Band Members, previously
unreleased and unseen BC footage, competitions, merchandise, with food &
drink available all day.

PLUS Exclusive Airing/Showing of the forthcoming Big Country Live Album 'Come
Up Screaming' recorded on the Final Fling Tour.

It's also an opportunity experience an unforgettable day (and night!).

On top of this, there shall be some unbelievable exclusive live performances
NOT to be missed.

We look forward to seeing you on October 7th for a 12 Hour Extravaganza no
Mike Peters/COTR/Alarm Fan will want to miss.

PLEASE NOTE: Whilst Band Members of BC shall be performing during the
evening, they will NOT be performing as Big Country, and as yet it is
uncertain whether Stuart Adamson will be in attendance.
THE ORGANSIERS RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE CONTENT/PROGRAMME OF EVENTS.


Hotels and B&B's for the Convention:
We have negotiated special rates for attendees of the convention. When
calling please state your booking is in connection with the BC Convention.

Hotels:
Quality Hotel: 01707 275701 (ask to speak to Anne) £50 per double room
(single or double occupancy).
Airfield Travel Inn: 01707 268990 £40.95 per room. Single, Twin or Double.
Room Only.
Jarvis Hotel: 01707 265411 Rate £39.95 per room. Twin or Double. Room only.
Stanborough Travel Inn: 01707 391345 £40.95 per room. Single, Twin or Double.
Room Only.
A minibus service will be available to these Hotels, to pick up and drop off
for £4 return. If you wish this service, please be at your pre-booked hotel
by 11am.

B&B's:
YMCA Welwyn Garden City (3 miles from venue) 01707 351400. £18.50 per night
B&B (cheaper rates available if sharing large room for 8 people). If
sufficient numbers of people staying at YMCA we can have Minibus collect/
Drop off.
Other B&B's are in St Albans approx 6 miles from venue. Details from Tourist
Board 01727 864511.
For those wishing location details and travel directions of venue and hotels,
please visit the websites listed below or request Map and Travel Directions
with your postal order.

Latest Convention News can also be found on the BC Information Hotline: 0891
600031 or by visiting the following websites:
www.bigcountry.co.uk www.airhead.demon.co.uk
www.trackrecords.co.uk www.mikepetersweb.com


Tickets can be purchased by post (details below) or by visiting the
Merchandise Section of www.bigcountry.co.uk

For postal applications, please send details of your order in accordance with
the following:

Return to: BIG COUNTRY CONVENTION2000, P.O. Box 107, South Godstone, Redhill,
Surrey, RH9 8YS, together with your cheque, made payable to Big Country
Touring And Recording for the appropriate amount. Please add £1 P&P to total.
IMPORTANT!! Please list names of all attendees on your order if more than one
ticket is required. If we do not have the names, we cannot guarantee entry to
the event! Thankyou.

Name:................................................ No. Of Tickets:
Address:............................................ All Day (£10 per
person) ....... No. £................
........................................................... Evening Only
(£5 per person) ....... No. £................
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The Alarm
Re-formed for the new millennium, they are still one of the biggest Welsh bands ever

Boyo Tom Jones looks at a new box-set covering their career

In the last five years, the sheep jokes have gradually fallen by the wayside in the wake of 'Cool Cymru', which was sparked by the success of the Manic Street Preachers, Catatonia, 69 Foot Dolls, Super Furry Animals and Gorky's Zygotic Mynci. No one laughs now at the numerous new bands from the hills and vales, like Melys, Terris, Tystion, Murray The Hump, Gwacamoli, Big Leaves, Derrero, or the Crocketts to name but a few. But Tom Jones wasn't always regarded as a demi-god, and before Vinnie and Catherine Zeta made it, the Alarm had to suffer incessant jibes throughout their 80s heyday, when being Welsh meant Aled Jones or Harry Secombe.

After their early 90s demise, however, the Alarm retained a large and loyal following, who have now been rewarded by the return of Mike Peters and co. and a nine-CD 150 song-strong box-set, pegged at just under £100.

Hailing from the Disneyfield holiday haven for Brummies, Mancs and Scousers that is Rhyl, Meic Peters (as the avid Wrexham FC fan is now known, emphasising his very Welshness) set up the four-piece as Thatcherism dawned, and moved from punky pretensions when the outfit were known as Seventeen to the type of pop-rock peddled by U2 (whose guitar-led sound was, of course, moulded by fellow Welshman, the Edge).

There was more than a dose of Clash about the Alarm too in their fledgling days, not least on their anthemic 1983 Top 20 hit, "68 Guns", and the energising "Where Were You Hiding When The Storm Broke". And if that's all you can remember about Messrs Peters, Sharp, Mcdonald and Twist (solicitors?) - other than the mushroom-cloud hair and cavalier boots - then you won't be that bothered about the thoroughly decent remastering job done by their leader, or give a hoot about the 17 previously-unreleased tracks in this mammoth collection. The 28 live cuts and a total of 86 tracks hitherto unavailable on original LP or CD will be as nought. If, on the other hand, you wore head-to-toe black plus the gold neckerchief with pride in those far-off 80s glory days, you may well want to go the whole hog and imbibe all but every note laid down by the quartet. In doing so, you can also take in over 70,000 words about the band and gawk at over 200 photos (many previously unpublished).

The eponymous album takes in no fewer than five demos from 1981-1983, including "68 Guns", plus a ruck of live stuff and the extended version of "The Stand". Add to that the five-track mini-LP from '83, "The Alarm EP", which was only issued for export, and you're off to good start.

The classic, Top 5 album, "Declaration", from 1984, also lobs in a mass of additional material (all told, some 26 tunes), and the same goes for "Strength" . It covers all the band's recorded output from 1985 to 1986 , including the raging, autobiographical "Spirit of & 76", the wistful homage to urban decay that was contemporary "Deeside" (!), and the electric version of "One Stop Closer to Home".

1987's "Eye of the Hurricane", which boasted the hit "Rain in the Summertime", is bolstered by an unissued mix of the title track, overseen by the Smith's producer John Porter. Additionally, there's a banquet of bull-and-bluster delights taking us up to 1988, including a couple of 12"mixes.

The Alarm were always hailed as a sharp live prospect (ably demonstrated to this day), not least by Bob Dylan, Neil Young and U2. And "Electric Folklore (Live)", taking in recordings from 1987-88, while the shortest set here, has been expanded from the half a dozen songs of the original mini-LP to 17 tracks. It remains a testament to the band's on-stage strengths, with the full impact of their declamatory style fully evident.

"Change", produced by Tony Visconti and featuring material from 1989-90, diversified the tone with a journey through the band's roots, taking in Celtic laments and the use of the Welsh Symphony Orchestra, well before the Manics (who were fans of The Alarm) adopted a similar tack. There's also the inclusion for the first time of the title track, "Change 1", as well as familiar hits like "A New South Wales". Unfortunately, while the band released a version in Cymraeg (Welsh), called "Newid" - following in the footsteps of the likes of Maffia Mr Huws and presaging the efforts of bilingual bands like Catatonia (who supported the Alarm in '89) and the Super Furries - this Welsh-language presentation was not deemed worthy of inclusion here. Pity. Shouldn't purchasers (many of whom will be completists) be offered it at cut-price, with bonus material?

The 'final' fling was "Raw", with tunes from 1990-91, now incorporating the first-ever release of the last studio track recorded together by The Alarm - a acoustic "Walk Forever By My Side", which was recently unearthed by EMI. It makes you wonder what else may be nestling in the vaults, but the box set offers numerous versions of songs, making for diverse, fresh and interesting listening. The revised packages of the albums also feature not only the original artwork, but new track listings with programming information to play back the lot in their original sequence. Finally, as the piece de resistance, there's an 18-song "Rare Tracks" CD, bringing together rarities and demos, as well as the promise of a bonus CD that will be dispatched to each buyer, containing their own selection of their favourite Alarm songs, bolstered by a personal dedication from Mike Peters himself. Bloody hell! All you need now is for him to buy you a curry at the Deeside Bengal Dynasty and you're bonded for life!

It would've been nice to include a disc with interview excerpts, CD-ROM or live material from King Biscuit broadcasts and others. But anyone who has been a pilgrim to the annual Peters 'Gathering' in Llandudno and other posh bits of the North Wales coast should be pleased as punch that the Alarm are being recognised as the forefathers of the Cool Cymru set and given due tribute through this special custom-cased package. Not before time!

Now that the Alarm are back, following Peters' solo endeavoursand Coloursound experiment, "The Alarm Collection 2000" marks the end of one era and the beginning of another in suitably grand style. So what are you waiting for? Get the hair gel on and dust off those boots!
The box-set is available by mail order only from:
www.thealarm.com
or by phoning 01745 571571

The Alarm
Alarm 2000 Collection
21ST CENTURY 21C018

Much derided, even in their heyday, The Alarm suffered from a tendancy to wear their influences (Clash, U2, Dylan) all too obviously on their sleeves. Their songs sometimes struggled clumsily to contain frontman Mike Peters' big-hearted righteous visions, but when it all clicked together (68 Guns, Blaze of Glory) their stomping rock lit up a moribund '80s musical landscape. Immaculately packaged and featuring a detailed anecdotally packed history from each band member, this is an eight album, 10 hour collection which bundles together every song the band ever recorded with enough demos, alternate versions and rarities to keep diehard fans in raptures for ever. * * *
Paul Davies

MPO is proud to announce the tourdates for Mike Peters Alarm 2000in America! Dates are as follows...

10/12 Key Club 9039 Sunset Blvd. Hollywood, CA 310 786 1712

10/13 Galaxy Theater 3503 S. Harbor Blvd. Santa Ana, CA 714 957 0600

10/14 Crossroads 32464 Dunlap Blvd Yucaipa, CA 909 795 0665

10/15 4th & B 345 B Street San Diego, CA 619 231 4343

10/16 Palookaville 1133 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 831 454 0707

10/17 Cactus Club 417 S. First San Jose, CA 510 797 9918

10/19 Berbati's 231 S.W. Ankeny Portland,OR 503 248 4579

10/20 TBA

10/21 TBA

10/22 Ballard Firehouse 5429 Russel Ave. NW Seattle, WA 206 784 1333

10/23 TBA

10/24 TBA

10/25 Mangy Moose South End Of Teton Teton Village, WY 307 733 4913

10/26 Club DV8 115 SW Temple, UT 801 582 7899

10/27 Buffalo Rose 1119 Washington Ave. Golden, CO 303 988 7446

10/28 Royal Grove 340 W. Cornhusker Lincoln, NE 402 730 0431

11/01 Cajun House 7117 E. 3rd Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 480 945 5150

11/02 TBA

11/03 Brave Bull 261 Mission Dr. San Gabriel, CA 626 798 2052

11/04 TBA

Who would have thought it? Briefly famous blow-dried passion punks from the 1980's commemorated in a massive nine CD box set! What's more, front man Mike Peters has promised to record a personally dedicated acoustic version of each purchasers fave Alarm track to be burned
on to a special CD for everyone buying this mail order-only monument to the
original Cool Cymru rockers.
Since the demise of the band's original label in the early 90s, none of this
material has been available. Fear not, Peters has now licensed the lot from
EMI and remastered the band's entire catalogue to meet the pentup demand. The Alarm (1983), Declaration (1985), Strength (1986), Eye of the Hurricane
(1988), the live album Electric Folklore (1988), Change (1990) and Raw (1991) are now available for the first time on CD. The set is completed by another album's worth of demos, rare tracks and b-sides. Each disc has the interactive programming information that allows each album to be played in its original sequence and the set comes with all the original artwork, lyrics and exhaustive sleeve notes to which each band member has
contributed. Potted highlights include a 1982 demo of the bands biggest hit,
68 Guns, eight extra live tracks added to Electric Folklore, the last studio
track the band recorded (an acoustic version of Walk Forever By My Side from the Raw album) and the first CD release for 1983's The Alarm EP.
Releasing this package may seem a strange thing to do, but sooner or later
rock revisionists are going to rewrite The Alarm's place in history. The
British (English?) music press was at best sniffy towards them, but the band
was the first to put Welsh language rock songs before the mainstream audience and always insisted on Welsh language support bands in Wales (including Y Cyrff who became Catatonia). For anyone other than a dyed-in-the-wool devotee, listening to the set is a major undertaking. While great chunks of The Alarm's back catalogue (particularly later albums) sound perfunctory and pedestrian to these unconverted ears, it is equally true to say that a lot of it benefits from
the kind of commitment and self-belief the Manics have gone on to turn into a
virtual art form. Raw and Change both suggest that major American acceptance was within their grasp.
Ultimately though their quest was to take coals to Newcastle, although from
punk-inspired rabble rousers to more considered, folksy-bluesy, blue collar
rock ballads, the band progressed even while swimming against the tide.
Defeat with honour. The Alarm 2000 Collection is an exemplary work with a minute attention to detail that, in an ideal world, would provide the benchmark for many other such reissue packages. Delivered to fans with a reassuring degree of love and respect, the band rightly enjoy a fiercely loyal hardcore support which will readily accept this an offering excellent value for money.

Out Monday. The Alarm 2000 Collection is £99.99 and can be ordered from http://www.thealarm.com
or by phoning 01745 571571.

Fans can choose exclusive acoustic track as part of 9-CD Alarm box set.
by Alexa Williamson
LiveDaily Staff Writer
LONDON--Alarm frontman Mike Peters and the Alarm 2000, a backing band
"playing tribute" to the original group, are to head out on a major tour of
America's West Coast and Britain beginning in October. It will be the first
time that Peters--who originally formed the group in Rhyl, Wales, in 1981
with David Sharp, Eddie MacDonald and Nigel Twist--has played with a full
electric band in the U.S. since 1992.

The tour will support the recent release of "The Alarm 2000," a 9-CD,
150-song box set which spans the group's 10-year career from 1981-1991, and
also includes an exclusive acoustic song which is chosen by the purchaser,
then performed by Peters and added to the collection. Fans can only order it
online from the group's official site.

The American leg of the tour is currently scheduled to kick off at
Hollywood's Key Club on October 12. The confirmed, ten-date British tour
will begin in Glasgow, Scotland, on December 4 and end in London on December
15. A spokesperson for Mike Peters told LiveDaily that he and the Alarm 2000
are then expected to tour Germany in January, 2001, and America's East Coast
in February.

Peters will be joined on the tour by guitarist James Stevenson
(Generation-X, Gene Loves Jezebel), drummer Steve Grantly (Stiff Little
Fingers) and bassist Richard Llewellyn (Jess, Cartoon).

Since the disbanding of the Alarm, which was known for hits including "68
Guns" and "Presence of Love," Peters has pursued a solo career and released
three solo albums, as well as fronting Cult guitarist Billy Duffy's band
Coloursound.


Check for Mike Peters and The Alarm 2000 U.K. tickets.


[Note: The following tour itinerary has been provided by artist and/or tour
sources, who verify its accuracy as of 25-Aug-2000. Changes may occur before
tickets go on sale. Check with official artist web sites, ticketing sources
and venues for late updates.]



October
12 - Hollywood, CA - Key Club
13 - Santa Ana, CA - Galaxy Theatre
14 - Yucaipa, CA - Crossroads
15 - San Diego, CA - 4th and Broadway
16 - Santa Cruz, CA - Palookaville
17 - San Jose, CA - Cactus Club
19 - Portand, OR - Berbati's Pan
20 - Seattle, WA - Ballard Firehouse
21 - Lewiston, ID - TBA
25 - Teton Village, WY - Mangy Moose
26 - Salt Lake City, UT - DV8
27 - Golden, CO - Buffalo Rose
28 - Lincoln, NE - Royal Grove

November
1 - Albuquerque, NM - Midnight Rodeo
2 - Phoenix, AZ - Cajun House
3 - Ventura, CA - Nicholbys
4 - San Gabriel, CA - Brave Bull

December
4 - Glasgow, Scotland - The Garage
5 - Newcastle, England - Newcastle University
7 - Leeds, England - Metropolitan University
8 - Wolverhampton, England - Wulfrun Hall
9 - Liverpool, England - The Lomax
10 - Sheffield, England - The Leadmill
12 - Cardiff, Wales - Cardiff University
13 - Nottingham, England - Rock City
14 - Manchester, England - Manchester University
15 - London, England - Shepherd's Bush Empire

Tune into your digital TV and catch a fantastic 40 minute documentary all about Mike Peters and the Alarm 2000 Collection. The BBC have been shadowing Mike since May of this year and recording his progress in the making of the Alarm 2000 Collection. This documentary features highlights from the very special sold out Alarm 2000 Day (held in North Wales in May) and an interview with Mike revealing the effort and dedication which went into making the Alarm 2000 Collection possible. Not to be missed!!!

The Wrap Special : Alarm 2000

Tuesday, 29 August on BBC Choice Wales at 23:30 hrs.

*Update*
Official Bootleg Traclkisting

I'm happy to announce that, indeed, "Lookin' This
World Over" will be on the Hard Travellin' 2000 album.
I've been lookin' forward very much to getting this
song out to you folks.

From what the accompanying blurb describes as the most internationally sucessful rock combo to come from Wales - a rather erm, manic assertion - this is the complete recorded works of The Alarm from 1981-1991 in one extra special box set.

Definately one fro the very discerning Alarm buff, this one even has the option of a bonus acoustic CD recorded personally for each buyer by Mike Peters.

A superb package for the fan, but for the average music lover, slightly excessive. In fact it's completely over the top. Mr Polanyk kindly rated the box set at 3 stars (out of five).

"The Children of the Revolution performed their legendary comeback show after years in the wilderness at the Purple Turtle in Reading on Sunday night, August 20th.

It was a typical cool English August evening but the temperature inside the Purple Turtle was rising with the expectation of seeing the Rev again after all those years, Hoardes of people formed outside, clad in their best seventies gear, in homage to their glam rock heroes, the Children of the Revolution; the band who spawned a generation of copycat bands like Sweet, Slade, T Rex and more.

A momentary glitch was overcome when the awful news was announced that the Rev's limo had broken down on the M4 on the way to the gig. Luckily in the audience that night were probably the biggest fans of the Rev, Mike Peters and James Stevenson together with Craig Adams and Steve Grantley.

Taking a night out from their heavy touring and recording schedules with Alarm 2000, Mike Peters, The Mish, Gene Loves Jezebel and Stiff Little Fingers, Mike and the boys had decided to take a busman's holiday to down a few sharpeners at the Purple Turtle. Ironically, they had all been huge fans of the Rev in their younger days and this was something they only recently discovered when Craig played his favourite Rev tune to Mike in the back of the tourbus on the Rise Tour of 1997. Mike and the boys were in bouyant mood, enjoying a few beers with other MPO members (who had also heard the news about the Rev) and chatting over memories of seeing the Rev whilst in their teens, when suddenly, the owner of the Purple Turtle, announced over the tannoy that the Rev had been delayed and did anyone fancy filling in for ten minutes to quell the ever simmering tension and excitement brewing within the walls of the Purple Turtle.

It was one of those once in a lifetime moments. Mike, James, Steve and Craig looked at eachother and leapt at the opportunity of supporting their heroes! The Rev audience looked on with slight confusion as they were treated to an impromptu performance of 68 Guns, Spirit of 76 and even a quick rendition of Wasteland for the Mish fans!

It wasn't long though before the Rev's limo pulled up outside, thanks to a very prompt AA man, and a shimmer of glitter, platforms and a kaleidescope of colour invaded the confines of the now hysterical Purple Turtle.

The Rev are back. Like they've never been seen before.It was all too much for Mike, Steve, Craig and James as they boogied along to all their childhood anthems - the songs that had inspired them to form their own bands and rock their own worlds. They even managed to sneak a few words with their heros at the end of the show and Mike, after years of trying was ecstatic after finally obtaining Alain Insane's autograph, along with Vince St. Clair, Rufus Stone and Heath Rowe.

Back to reality for Mike on Monday morning with yet more Alarm 2000 dedications to record but he wanted MPO to make a mention of this legendary night as he urges you to get out there at a Purple Turtle near you next time you see the Rev out on the road.

Rumour has it that The Rev are recording an album next week in Henley-on-Thames. MPO are currently in negotiations to try and secure The Rev's re-appearance at the Gathering on the 12th and 13th Jan 2001 after the Rev nearly outplayed Mike and the boys on the now awesome Saturday Gathering 8 night. Rumour also has it that Mike slipped a demotape of his infamous Christmas song into Alain Insane's pocket (played once only at the 100 Club in London a few years ago) in the hope that the Rev may choose to record it for their brand new upcoming comeback album.

If this happens, let's all pull together, support Mike and his heroes and try and make the Rev Number 1 for Christmas!"

The first part of our "Alarm 2000 Day Transcription" is up, and boy is it great!
It's been a long time coming, but it's worth it - like the sleeve notes - only more!
Stop reading this NOW, and click here to read it.

Rock n Roll Tales Part 100031

– Purple Turtle, Children of The Revolution,1973 opps sorry 2000.

Well hell, what a tale I have to tell ------ Before going to the ‘triumphant comeback’ of Children of The Revolution, a few of the gang Andy, Sam, Barney, Stuart, Ian, Jackie and myself decided to met up at the Travelodge (surprise, surprise) and also their old alter egos mates:

Felix Stowe; Glas Gow; East Midlands; Stans Ted; Holy Head and a dodgy bird with red hair called Kat Wick;-}

What the rock n roll omnibus and Spinal Tap directory forgot to tell Sam, Andy and Jackie and myself that we would get stuck in the travelodge LIFT???? for 50 minutes before the show – rock n roll (NOT???) – I started to panic that we might not make the show but we got there somehow by the aid of planks of wood and a few fireman (I kid you not). Never got the fireman’s lift though – shame.

So enough of my waffle here is the report for all you non-attendees???

We let our alter egos stand at the front whilst we lurked around the back of the audience and it looked like they had won the first prize of Best Glam Rockers – as nobody was silly enough to dress up;-} Wise people.

Unfortunately ‘Webby’ appeared on stage just before COTR where to take the stage and said that their limo had broken down on the way and cried out for musicians to take the stage to fill in. So we ended up with a rather ‘dodgy band’ who you may have seen around consisting of Mike Peters, Craig Adams, James Stevenson and Steve Grant – who played a few unknown tunes such as 68 Guns, Wasteland, Spirit of 76, White Riot and ehhh Wasteland again.

Luckily we didn’t have to put up with this ‘dodgy’ support band for any longer. As our national hero’s - Alain Insane; The Rock God - Rufus Stone; Vince St Clair and Heath Row completed with pink fluffy drumkit had managed to get to the venue and stormed onto the stage. Playing a thumping set which included: COTR obviously,

Motorbikin, Metal Guru, Goodbye Jane, Get It On Ballroom Blitz, Jean Genie, Blockbuster, Sweet Caroline, Jet Boy and Feel the Noize, and a few more but unfortunately the old bird with the red wig called Kat Wick was getting a bit carried away so she has forgotten the rest.?????

GOSSIP - How long will the COTR be around as we nearly had a minor scuffle on stage between Vince and Rufus as they were fighting over the champagne – I feel the rehab calling for them all:-}}}

It was a really great fun show and Mike, James, Craig and Steve enjoyed themselves as audiences members as they watch how real rock gods performed;-}

Sadly it had to come to an end but Rufus will return.

Please note the above article to be taken with a large sense of humour.

Kat Wick (Alias Katrina)

PS Anyone seen Kat Wick;-}}}} or have a photos of her I would like to see them –

From Charlie MacIntosh
Due to unforeseen circumstances, The Dave Sharp show at the Cumberland Arms
in Newcastle has been cancelled.

No other changes will be made to the schedule.

The New Clear Age Tour now runs:

Friday 22 September
THE TOWN HALL, Eccles, Manchester

Saturday 23 September
ROCK THE CITY BENEFIT, THE BAND ON THE WALL, Manchester

Sunday 24 September
The WITCHWOOD , Ashton-Under-Lyne, Manchester

Thursday 28 September
UNDERWORLD, Camden, London

Saturday 30 September
KING TUTS WAH WAH HUT, Glasgow

Sunday 1 October
SWAMPMASH 2, BOURBON ST.., Glasgow

For further information see www.dave-sharp.co.uk

The Alarm's Mike Peters has been playing a sporadic series of "Alarm 2000" concerts to mark the band's 20th anniversary. Peters recently performed "Alarm 2000 Day" for the band's fan club in North Wales, U.K. The show reportedly lasted for 12 hours and featured acoustic renditions of every Alarm song.
A more traditional set is expected when Peter and three backing musician plug in and play as "The Alarm 2000" at 4th and B in San Diego on Oct. 15. Tickets go on sale Friday (8/18) at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.

Friday 22 September
THE TOWN HALL
Church St. Eccles, Manchester
0161-707-8106
This will be a special warm up gig with the Hard Travelers.
A chance for all the fans to meet and greet Dave back to the U.K.
There will be no admission charge for this show!
BUT PLEASE COME EARLY AS TO BE ASSURED ENTRY!
8PM

Saturday 23 September
THE BAND ON THE WALL
25 Swan St. Northern Quarter, Manchester
Rock The City
Children's Hospital Benefit Show with:
Dave Sharp and the Hard Travelers
Kirk Brandon and Spear of Destiny
Toby Bourke
Big Paul Ferguson (from Killing Joke)
Charlie McIntosh Band
and other VERY SPECIAL GUEST'S
TICKETS L12.50
Tickets Can Be Purchased At:
BOX OFFICE 0161-833-0682 or Online www.tickets-online.co.uk
Decoy Records, Deansgate Manchester 0161-832-0183
By Email: charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk
davesharp.info@ntlworld.com
DOORS AT 7PM

Sunday 24 September
The WITCHWOOD
Dave Sharp & The Hard Travellers Supporting Spear of Destiny
Ashton-Under-Lyne, Manchester
TEL: 0161-344-0321
TICKETS L7.50/L8.00
Doors at 8PM

Thursday 28 September
UNDERWORLD
Dave Sharp & The Hard Travellers supporting Spear of Desting plus one other support
Camden, London
Dave's only London appearance this year!
TICKETS L7.50/L9.00
Doors at 7PM.

Friday 29 September
THE CUMBERLAND ARMS, NEWCASTLE
Due to unforseen circumstances, this show is regretably cancelled.

Saturday 30 September
KING TUTS WAH WAH HUT
WITH THE HARD TRAVELERS
With Special Guest Support
Kasino
272 St. Vincent St. Glasgow
Tel: 0141-221-5279
Tickets L8
Presented By Scotland Calling

Sunday 1 October
SWAMPMASH 2
With Special Guest Support
Kasino
SPECIAL MAILING LIST SHOW
108 George St. Glasgow
Tel:0141-552-0141
www.bourbon-st.fsnet.co.uk
Tickets L5
There will be limited tickets for this show, and members of the Dave Sharp mailing list
will receive priority before the public sale.

Monday 2 October
TELFORDS WAREHOUSE
Unfortunately, this show has been cancelled due to a tragic fire at the venue.

The first review is in, and it is great!
Check it out here.

To coincide with the successful release of The Alarm 2000 Collection, the MPO is pleased to announce details of Mike Peters / Alarm 2000 forthcoming touring plans.

The Alarm 2000 Tour will begin with a series of North American West Coast dates beginning in California at The Key Club, Hollywood, Los Angeles on Thursday October 12th and running up and down the West Coast until November 4th. The full tour itinerary will be announced by MPO very soon.

The tour will then resume in the UK on December 4th until December 15th finishing at Shepherds Bush Empire, London. The UK tour is being promoted by SJM Concerts and tickets are on sale from Monday 14th August.

A further East Coast tour of North America is already being planned for 2001 sometime after The Gathering 9 which is being held in Llandudno, North Wales on January 12-13th 2001. Gathering Box office 01745 571571.

Please find to follow the confirmed UK dates and box office information for the Mike Peters/Alarm 2000 UK Tour:

4th Dec Glasgow Garage 0141 339 8383
5th Dec Newcastle Uni 0191 233 0444
6th Dec off
7th Dec Leeds Metro Uni. 0113 244 4600
8th Dec Wolverhampton Wulfrun 01902 552121
9th Dec Liverpool Lomax 0151 707 9977
10th Dec Sheffield Leadmill 0114 275 4500
11th Dec off
12th Dec Cardiff University 02920 387421
13th Dec Nottingham Rock City 0115 941 2544
14th Dec Manchester Uni. 0161 832 1111
15th Dec London Shepherds Bush Empire 0207 771 2000/0207 734 8932

National CC Hotline 0115 912 9000
www.gigsandtours.com

** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM BC FANCLUB **
BIG COUNTRY CONVENTION : 12 HOUR EXTRAVAGANZA.
**************** NEW DATE **********************

Originally scheduled to take place on 16th September 2000, due to unforeseen
circumstances outwith our control, the BC Convention2000 shall now take place
on SATURDAY 7TH OCTOBER 2000.

All details as before, remain the same, and are listed further below.

The BC Fanclub apologise to everyone for this date change, and sincerely hope all those who have purchased tickets already, and those originally intending to come,
will still be able to attend on the new date of 7th October.

For anyone who has purchased tickets, and cannot attend the rescheduled date,
please contact track@igma.demon.co.uk for refund of your tickets.

For those who haven't got your tickets yet, please go to Merchandise section
of the Big Country Website and order them now. Tickets are selling well for an event that is sure to be a memorable day.

For those wishing accommodation, please contact tony@tonyg.freeserve.co.uk
for details of local Hotels at special rates and list of B&B's, which are
available on request.

7TH OCTOBER 2000
BIG COUNTRY CONVENTION2000 : 12 HOUR EXTRAVAGANZA
WILL BE HELD AT:

UHSU
UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
COLLEGE LANE
HATFIELD
HERTFORDSHIRE
EL10 9AB

12 NOON - 12 MIDNIGHT.

£10 All day (£7.50 BC Website Members)

£5 from 8pm. (live performances commence 8pm)

Members of Big Country shall be in attendance, alongwith special guests
including Mike Peters, Intervurt, Pelt and more.

The day shall include Question & Answer Session, previously unreleased and
unseen BC footage, competitions, merchandise, with food & drink available all
day.

On top of this, there shall be some live performances NOT to be missed.

It's an opportunity to meet up with many fellow BC Fans again, and experience
an unforgettable day.

The BC Fanclub shall soon be posting more information on the Transport links from
Airports and Railway Stations, in addition to directions for those wishing to
travel by road.

They are also trying to organise transport by minibus to and from local hotels,
more on that soon, too.

For those who wish to view the location on the Internet,
click here for location map

If the link doesn't come up, type in http://www.streetmap.co.uk/
OS grid ref 521250,207250
or search for the University, using above postal address/postcode (EL10 9AB).

Thanks for your time and interest in reading this message and once again, apologies for any inconvenience the rescheduled date may cause, but hope to
see many of you wonderful BC Fans on Saturday 7th October 2000 at the BC
Convention2000, for a day that should not be missed by anyone.

News just came in to us this morning, the Chester show is cancelled.

The venue was burned out on Saturday afternoon. It should
re-open in approximately six months time.

A new show will be added for the Chester/Wales area shortly.

More details when they come in….

A Word From hockey Great Tie Domi has been added to the TheAlarm. Com

Following their successful headline appearance at Mike Peter's Gathering 8 in Llandudno, The Children Of The Revolution play their first show outside of North Wales since the 1970s.

Rufus Stone, Alain Insane, Vince St. Claire and Heath Rowe with special guest Hipster Looney from The Metal Gurus will be appearing live at
The Purple Turtle
9 Gun Street
Reading
Tel. 0118 959 7196

Sunday August 20th, Doors 8pm

Free Admission …. as long as you buy a t-shirt

Prizes for the best dressed glam rockers

This is the band that spawned The Mission, The Alarm, Stiff Little Fingers, Gene Loves Jezebel, Coloursøund and The Sisters Of Mercy

Let's Make The Rev No. 1 For Christmas

Mike Peters and Alarm 2000 played to a capacity crowd at the Main Debating
Hall in Manchester on Friday July 21st. It was one of the hottest days of
the British summer as Mike and the band stormed through a set of Alarm
classics...

Declaration
Marching On
Where Were You Hiding?
Knife Edge
Deeside
Majority
One Step Closer To Home (Electric Version)
Unsafe Building (1981 Version)
Absolute Reality
We Are The Light
Walk Forever By My Side
The Deceiver
The Stand
Howling Wind (Acoustic)
Sold Me Down The River
Sixty Eight Guns
Rescue Me
Spirit Of 76
----------------

Rain In The Summertime (Acoustic/Electric version)
Blaze Of Glory
Rockin' In The Freeworld

Mike played his old black acoustic guitar with the Gibson humbucker pick-up
and before One Step closer to home plugged Dave Sharp's forthcoming concerts
in the UK.. Mike asked the audience to go along and show Dave the same
support as he had enjoyed for Alarm 2000 and at the end of the show
dedicated the set to Dave, Nige and Eddie.

Mike looks forward to his next live performance at next weekend's Singleton
Park Concert in Swansea.

Mike Peters and Big Country 16th September

Due to the successful relationship between Mike Peters and Big Country, Mike has been invited to appear at the Big Country 12 Hour Extravaganza...

BIG COUNTRY 12 HOUR EXTRAVAGANZA.
16TH SEPTEMBER 2000
UHSU
UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
COLLEGE LANE
HATFIELD
HERTS
EL10 9AB
TEL: 01707 286155
12 NOON - 12 MIDNIGHT.
£10 All day (£7.50 members)
£5 from 8pm. (live performances commence 8pm)
Members of Big Country,Mike Peters, Simon Townshend, Intervurt, Pelt and more will be there. Question & Answer, film, competitions, merchandise, food & drink available all day.

MIKE PETERS' MESSAGE ON CHANNEL 4 <,/b>

Samples from Mike Peters' version of The Message (U.S. album version) are to be used in three short films to be broadcast on Channel 4. The films, titled 'The Cricket Test', and produced and directed by Danny Cohen, will air on 31st July, 1st August and 2nd August at 7.50pm.

Mikes Manchester show has sold out on Friday 21st July but due to the
continuing excessive demand for tickets the promoters have moved the concert
to the larger venue et the University the main debating hall.

Mike's support band for Manchester
Whilst out socialising recently in Manchester, Mike was impressed by a young
four piece band called Haven, so much so that he has invited them to support
at the forthcoming Alarm 2000 show on Friday. Haven are managed by the same
people as The Smiths and Mike's tip is that for those of you with tickets,
to get down early to catch Haven if you can.
Doors @ 7.00pm
Haven take the stage at 8pm
Mike Peters and Alarm 2000 @ 9pm

MPO Bulletin: Mike Peters on BBC Digital Choice
MpO has been informed from non-official sources that the FIZZ programme on
BBC Choice Wales will be broadcasting an interview with Mike
on Weds 19th July from 23.00 (11pm) until 23.30 (11.30pm).N.b. BBC Choice
Wales can be received by all Sky Digital customers across the UK.

MIKE PETERS PLAYS HARMONICA FOR SEXPISTOL'S GLEN MATLOCK…
On Thursday this week (July 20th) Mike Peters performs alongside Glen Matlock after invitation by Glen on 'London Live' at 11am. Mike Peters will be performing on 'Ambition'. Mike will be sneaking out of rehearsals to perform in London alongside one of his former hero bandmember after first seeing the Pistols in Chester all those years ago...

MANCHESTER MADNESS!
Mike and the band are rehearsing furiously for what promises to be a gig full of surprises at the rumoured 'sold out' Manchester show this coming Friday (July 21st). Please try 0161 275 2930 in case of any remaining tickets. For those with tickets, take a spare t shirt as it looks like the night promises to be a hot one! Mike Peters has been trawling through his Alarm songbook and the night promises to be bursting at the seams with Alarm songs rare and popular in tribute to the recently released Alarm 2000 Collection.

MIKE PETERS AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE
Mike Peters will also be squeezing a visit to the Queen's Garden Party at Buckingham Palace this Thursday as guest to his wife, MPO Chief and local Councillor, Mrs. Jules Jones-Peters!

It's very late (1.30am on a Monday night) and I'm still cringing at my
abandonment of Jules News. Please forgive me. At least this drought of news
has been instigated by positive forces. The MPO. We are busy to the point of
bursting. New members, old members, mail order, general enquiries, praise,
criticism (but we just delete those as they're few and far between) :) and
much more...

Where should I start? Since March there has been so much that I wanted to
report back to you... Apres Gathering, I was hoping for a semi-retirement
kind of existence. You know the kind of thing. Sort of part time rock wife.
To make time for hanging baskets, to take tea at 4 in the afternoon, over a
few fancies and general chat... to have a life outside Mike Peters and MPO.

No such luck. In the year 2000, the only tottering I have done is around the
offices of MPO. My gardening has been handed over to George (my part-time
husband substitute and odd job man - catch him at the Gathering - looks just
like Uncle Albert out of Only Fools and Horses) and the only chat I have is
with all of you...

But yes, I love it! I did slip away on a visit to Germany when Mike was
touring with Big Country, mainly to see if the Scots were as debauched as
the Mish (no comment) but suffice to say the Big Country Boys are darlings
and as for Mr. Stuart Adamson, well, we became very acquainted on my arrival
in Hambug and very drunk (much to everbody's alarm) as it was only lunchtime
, over a few wee bottles of German brew...

Mike was so busy at the time recording his dedications that I think he was
quite relieved that I had found myself a singer substitute whilst he
recorded 'Walk Forever' for the 'nth time. Willie Tocher of Big Country
Merchandise Fame and MPO member was not eager to recruit me at the Merch
Desk, considering my condition and so I was free to totter about Germany. As
it turned out I was so wasted from MPO duties that I was very ashamedly
creeping towards my bunk at the end of Big Country's set. My reputation as
Party Bird was much damaged and several nights I was sheepishly drawn out of
my bunk to join in the festivities. The boys and Mike (bless) even surprised
me with birthday champagne (hint hint) apres a very jolly show in Germany
when Mike had to prise me away from Willie and the Big Country Desk where I
was tempting unsuspecting MP German fans to head Waleswards for G9.

Mike loved his time with BC and of course it was around this time that the
coupling up for the UK tour was suggested by BC's manager, the hardworking
Ian Grant. At this point, Mike's workload was horrendous. How he managed to
keep his head I'll never know. He was flying all over Europe, the
dedications were flooding in, Alarm 2000 Day and a 12 hour sold out show was
looming and of course the finalisation and manufacturing of the Alarm 2000
Collection, of which MP was entirely responsible. On top of that,
Coloursound and X-ELL business in the USA (more of that at a later date)...

Can Mike be as angelic and down to earth as he seems, I hear you ask...?
Well, the answer to that is.. yes. As his partner of 14 years coming up this
August, he never fails to astound me for his dedication, good nature,
sweetness and complete kindness. He is a true gem and I thank God I was out
tottering on that fateful night of August 15th 1986 in the heady atmosphere
of the 'Downtown' AND Rhyl prom....

Life with Mike is a rollercoaster. He has the zest for life of a teenager
and is a constant source of excitement to be hanging out with. No mountain
to high and all that. Okay he is a bit of a lightweight when it comes to
putting the bins out but hey, it's a small price to pay and of course, there
is always, George...

There is so much more to say but I feel the success of more regular columns
from me is brevity. All I did want to say is that I will be merchbirding at
Mr. Hussey and Ado's forthcoming ventures (I'm a sucker for Blue Nun) next
month so come and say hi. I'll be tottering at Manchester on Friday so come
and say hi and this Thursday I'll be stealing Mike from rehearsals to take a
trip to visit Queen Liz at Buckingham Palace in my role as Councillor Jones-
Peters so maybe I will fulfill my wish of tea at 4 and gentle chat...

Answers on a epostcard please to
Jules@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
xx

Dave is currently in the Studio rehearsing for the forth-coming tour of the UK.
At this present time no new news regarding the long waited album as soon as anything
comes to light we will let you all know first.

The tour is selling well thanks to everyone for his or her support in making
the forth-coming tour a great success.

All Venues are now selling tickets below you will find a full list of venues
and where you can purchase your tickets.

Friday 22nd September

Townhall, Church Street, Eccles, Manchester,

Telephone Number 0161-707-8106

This will be a special warm up show with the Hard Travelers, this is a free show
please come early to be assured entry. Doors open 8pm.

Saturday 23rd September

Rock The City, Charity event were you can catch Dave and the Hard Travelers along
with Spear of Destiny and a few special guests.

Tickets priced £12.50 are on sale from the following

Box Office 0161- 833-0682 or online www.bandonthewall.com

Decoy Records Deansgate Manchester 0161-832-0183

Or from our selves at davesharp.info@ntlworld.com

Not many tickets left so be quick for this one.

Friday 29th September

The Cumberland Arms, Shields Road, Byker, Newcastle with the Acoustic Terrorists
with Guest Support, Ticket £5 on the door. Doors open 9pm.

Saturday 30th September

King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow
Dave Returns to Glasgow's Number One Club Spot where he played a storming show
back on the hard Traveling tour of 91', this time he brings his own band the
Hard Travelers wit Special Guests Glasgow's Finest KASINO. Tickets are priced
£8 and are on sale from the venue at 272 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow Tel 0141-221-5279

Credit Card Bookings 0161-833-0682 Wayahead and online www.tickets-online.co.uk
and search Dave Sharp. Tickets are going well for this show don't wait until
the last minute as Kasino has a large following through out the city and tickets
will go quickly. Tickets are also on sale from our selves at davesharp.info@ntlworld.com

Sunday 1st October

The Official Mailing List Show.

Swampmash 2 is selling well there is limited tickets left for this show so be
fast as this show will be nothing like any other on the tour, We also have Kasino
playing acoustic support slot along with many special guests......;-)))

Tickets Are on sale at Bourbon Street, 108 George Street, Glasgow and Credit
Card Booking on Tel 0141-552-0141 or from our selves at davesharp.info@ntlworld.com
Tickets Priced £5.00 A Special Drinks Promo has been arrange £1 per Margaritas.



Hotel details will follow soon

Monday 2nd October

Telfords Warehouse, Chester this will be the last show on the tour before Dave
Returns to America. Tickets on sale from the venue tel 01244-390-090 tickets
priced £7/£6


That is all the tour information. For anyone out there that hasn't got a copy
of Hiding In Plain Sight we have a limited amount left priced £12 please e-mail
for more information or check out the website for more details.

Well that's us for another issue.

See you all on the road in September

James Edmond

Official Website

www.dave-sharp.co.uk

New feature: Columns

Read the insane rambling of 5 different Alarm fans. You can get instant updates on new columns by viewing the "Latest Columns" notifier on the left-hand side of the homepage, just below "Today In Alarm History".

Jump to the columns now!

We have added a new downloads here. Congrats to Darryl Farlam for suggesting the idea, and submitting the first download, his very own Alarm desktop wallpaper. I have added 7 more wallpapers of the Alarm 2000 re-released album covers.

We would like to add some short sound-clips to the downloads as well. They must be 300K or shorter. Small bits of rare songs, or short interviews clips would be the best.

Please email Steve Fulton with your download idea.

If anyone can recall, Dave's last album was considered "Americana" (which is alternative country) back in 1996 when it was released. Of course, who knew of "Americana" back then? Gavin now reports it as its own format, with a separate chart for "Americana" airplay.
Well, check out this new article from sonic.net:
Offbeat Country Artists Thrive In Americana Movement Growing format pushes edgier music mix, gathers steam.
Could this be good news?
Come on Dave, get that album out and get into this Right Now!! This
could be your chance to get that album heard!

Mike Peters to perform at Swansea's Singleton Park

MPO would like to announce the addition of another Mike Peters 'Alarm 2000' performance as follows:

Mike Peters 'Alarm 2000'
Swansea Singleton Park, South Wales
Sunday 30th July
Xtreme World Festival

Tickets £15 in advance
Credit card hotline
02920 757870

(Also on the bill are Motorhead & Therapy)

Mike Peters at Manchester University - Expect a sellout!

Please also be aware that tickets for Mike Peters Alarm 2000 at Manchester University on Friday July 21st are selling fast. SJM, Mike's promoters expect the show to be a sellout. Tickets can be purchased on 0161 832 1111 / 0151 709 4321 , or via Ticketline

The day we have all been waiting for! The Alarm 2000 Collection has been
dispatched throughout the world. For those MPO members overseas, dispatch
takes between 5 - 7 days so watch your postboxes carefully. For you British
out there - the boxsets have been posted first class so thrilled MPO members
have already been contacting MPO to let us know that their boxset has been
safely received. We have received messages from people overwhelmed by their
personal dedications who have not even progressed beyond that one cherished
CD to the entire Alarm collection!

Here at MPO, we would just like to thank you for your patience with regards
to the 3 week delay. We totally understand how many of you have been eagerly
awaiting this collection, some from as early as January when news of the
collection was announced at the Gathering. It has been a mammoth undertaking
for Mike and all of us at MPO. Extra staff have been drafted in and we are
now suffering from a multitude of wounds - mouth ulcers, twisted necks, sore
backs - due to the machinations of putting the boxsets and dedications
together :)

Mike himself is still immersed in 'dedication world' and so we would like to
point out that for those people making their orders from Mid June onwards
please be aware that delivery is 28 days.

The range of choice of dedications has been both fascinating and humbling
experience. From 'Walk Forever' to 'Father to Son'... from very happy to the
very upsetting... It has been a huge learning trip in understanding how much
The Alarm's music helps people through momentous happenings in their life.

So thanks for all your support. We hope that Mike is spared enough time this
year from dedication recording to write his next solo record. Rumour has it
that all this discipline and recollection of his songwriting catalogue has
moved him to slot in a few bursts of creativity. For those of you who have
already experienced hints of 'Kaleidescope' and 'Festival of Light', expect
great things...

In the meantime, unwrap the boxsets and immerse yourself in Alarm world and
the four lads who shook your world...

Alarm 2000 Day was a special and unique kind of day. 250 dedicated MPO members made the trip to North Wales to spend the day with Alarm lead singer, Mike Peters and listen to him spill his innermost feelings and thoughts on his Alarm experiences. It was a very emotional and uplifting day with Mike determined to sing almost every song from the Alarm catalogue.

Fatigued by his recent touring exploits with Big Country and overwhelmed with recording a dizzying realm of dedications pouring in from all over the world, Mike was exhausted and fighting off a heavy 'tour' cold. At 11am that morning, cocooned on the top flooe of the country house and location for the day, the Faenol Fawr, Mike felt for the first time that he was 'without voice' and the day ahead loomed ominously. It was even considered by Mike and MPO staff that maybe the day would have to be reset. Like the trooper he is, Mike decided to plunge in to the danger zone of 'Declaration' and test his voice to the limit. Buckets of honey and lemon later and aided by a fantastic and supportive audience Mike soon felt his voals juicing back to life and the day of songs and recollections rolled on into the night.

It is pointless to try and recapture Mike's stories and heartfelt memories here in print as that is an experience all in itself. Suffice to say, the experience has moved MPO to explore the possibilites of holding Alarm 2000 Days all over the world. Investigations are already being made for a possible Alarm 2000 Day on the east coast of America later this year. In the meantime read on through the setlist and imagine a one man 12 hour performance...

Unsafe Building

Up For Murder

For Freedom

Across the Border

Lie Of The Land

The Stand

Declaration

Marching On

Where Were You Hiding When The Storm Broke?

Sixty Eight Guns

Tell Me

We Are The Light

Shout To The Devil

Blaze Of Glory

The Deceiver

Pavilion Steps

What Kind Of Hell

Third Light

The Stand (Prophecy)

Unbreak The Promise

Howling Wind

The Chant Has Just Begun

Second Generation

Room At The Top

Reason 36

Reason 41

Bells Of Rhymney

Bound For Glory

Absolute Reality

Strength

Knife Edge

Spirit Of 76

Walk Forever By My Side

Father To Son

Deeside

Majority

One Step Closer To Home [Electric Version] (From The CD)

Caroline Isenberg

Dawn Chorus

Only The Thunder (Played Later)

The Day The Ravens Left The Tower

Knocking On Heaven's Door

Rain In The Summertime

Newtown Jericho

Rose Beyond The Wall (Not Played)

Hallowed Ground

One Step Closer To Home

Shelter

Eye Of The Hurricane

Permanence In Change

Presence Of Love (Not Played)

Time To Believe (Not Played)

Only Love Can Set Me Free

Rescue Me

Elders & Folklore (Not Played)

My Land Your Land (Not Played)

Pastures Of Plenty (Not Played)

Change I

Sold me Down The River

Devolution Working Man Blues

Love Don't Come Easy

Change II

Hardland

The Rock

No Frontiers

Where A Town Once Stood

Scarlet

Black Sun

Prison Without Prison Bars

How The Mighty Fall

Firing Line (Not Played)

Corridors Of Power

Breaking Point

Rivers To Cross

A New South Wales (In Welsh)

Rockin' In the Freeworld

The Road

Raw

The Wind Blows Away My Words

God Save Somebody

Moments In Time

Let The River Run It's Course

Lead Me Through The Darkness

Hell Or High Water

Wonderful World

Save Your Crying

Happy Xmas (War Is Over)

Maggie May

Only The Thunder

Walk Forever By My Side

Breathe

ROCK THE CITY





Preparations are complete for a charity fund-raising concert in aid of
The Royal Manchester Children's
Hospital in Pendlebury, Greater Manchester.
The concert will be part of Manchester's "IN THE CITY" events, and will take
place at The Band On The Wall on Swan St. in Manchester's Northern
Quarter on Saturday 23rd September, 2000
All of the proceeds from the show will go to The Heywood Ward of The ROYAL MANCHESTER
CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, Pendlebury.
All of the artist's have kindly taken time out of their recording and touring
schedule's to participate in this event free of charge.
An autograph and photo session with the artists will take place before doors
open on the night.
Also, a guitar (kindly donated by Musicians Exchange of Manchester) used and
autographed by all of the artists on the night, will be auctioned off during
the show for the charity.
Please note:
Any recording of the show is strictly prohibited!
The show will be recorded only by the venue, however cameras will be allowed.
All of the proceeds of recorded sales will go to the Royal Manchester Children's
Hospital.

The Confirmed Lineup
KIRK BRANDON & SPEAR OF DESTINY
DAVE SHARP of THE ALARM with The Hard Travelers
Big Paul Ferguson from Killing Joke
Toby Bourke
Charlie McIntosh Band
And Other Special Guests



ONLY 250 TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC FOR THIS SHOW, SO PLEASE BOOK
NOW TO AVOID DISSAPOINTMENT!
TICKETS £12.50
DOORS AT 8PM
TICKETS ON SALE JUNE 19 And Can Be Purchased At:
BOX OFFICE 0161-833-0682 or Online WWW.BAND ON THE WALL
DECOY RECORDS, Deansgate Manchester 0161-832-0183
Or By Email with Check or Postal Order:
charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk
davesharp.info@ntlworld.com

For all information and enquiries about the show, please visit:
WWW.CHARLIEMCINTOSH.CO.UK
or E-mail charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk




Organized with the permission of The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital
Charity Fund
A REGISTERED CHARITY



Official Website

www.dave-sharp.co.uk

Well news is coming in fast today, first of all The charity show is selling out
fast, on the first day of sales we have only 25% of tickets remaing so we are
being told with the venue that it should be sold out in the next few days. Anyone
wanting tickets can book online 24hrs aday by going to the band on the wall website
and book online. Please type in the Shows Name on the online booking site. Rock
The City to book.

Band on the Wall website www.bandonthewall.com

Swampmash 2 tickets will be in the post to everyone that has sent Payment to
us direct you should have them by the beginning of July. We have had such demand
by postal that it is taking a while to go through all the mail. Anyone still
wishing to purchase tickets can do so by either phoning the Bourbon street or
by postal. Cheques and postal order should be made payable to R. Edmond and sent
to

R. Edmond
156 Oronsay Avenue
Port Glasgow
PA14 6EG
Scotland
UK

Anyone planning on sending postal could you please contact us so we can reserve
your tickets and there will be disappointment.

Contact via e-mail davesharp.info@ntlworld.com

or telephone 01475-799231

All Cheques and Postal orders that we have recieved will not be cash for another
week or so if you wish to confirm we have you payment please feel free to e-mail
us.

News on King Tut's Tickets will be on sale soon we will post here as soon as
we have details regarding this.

This is all the news for now you will also recieve a second e-mail to night with
the official Press release regarding the Charity show....



All the best for now and keep the faith it is going to be one great September.



James & Rosemary Edmond



Official Website

www.dave-sharp.co.uk

In case you are wondering, EVERY song requested while purchasing an "Alarm 2000 Boxed Set" will be uniquely recorded by Mike Peters. Even if you request a song that has been requested by 200 other folks, Mike Peters will be uniquely record your song for you. He will not just record the dedication, then tack it on to a canned recording of your song. Each song will be recorded seperately! This is what makes "The Alarm 2000" collection one of the most innovative and unique product offerings EVER released. Don't miss your chance to get one!!

Highlights of The Alarm 2000 Collection include:

Following on from the success of the Alarm 2000/Big Country touring for
the most part of early 2000, Mike Peters/Alarm 2000 will play a special one
off show at Manchester University on Friday July 21st 2000.

Students Union
University Of Manchester
Oxford Road
Manchester

Tickets 9-50 in advance
(+booking fee)
Tickets available from:
Student Union Ticket Office 0161 275 2930
Virgin Megastore Manchester 0161 832 1111 (Credit Cards)
Royal Court Theatre Liverpool 0151 709 4321 (Credit Cards)
Ticket Line

Official Word From The MPO On Why the boxed sets have been delayed, and when to expect them:

Basically, a combination of extra tracks, expanded sleeve notes has had the knock on effect of increasing the manufacturing time. Also, the individual CD's had to be hand packaged due to the nature of the artwork. We have been promised (by the manufacturer) the CD's and boxsets by next Wednesday and will endeavour to have everything out by Friday.

Essentially, this record started out life as a CD version of “The Alarm” E.P., which has never been released. Instead, it has become something much more. This CD stands as an historical record, chronicling the sonic rise of a nearly anonymous Wales-based punk band into a chart-topping success story.

The album starts out, appropriately enough, with a-side and b-side from The Alarm’s first independent 1981 single Unsafe Building b/w Up for Murder. Both songs sound remarkably clean and crisp on CD, and set the stage for the material to follow. At this point, two songs in, the album takes a monumental turn. Instead of logically moving into “Marching On”, The Alarm’s second single from 1982, we get to hear 5 demos from 1982. Actually a mix of demos for EMI , miscellaneous demos, and sessions, these 5 songs capture The Alarm in their rawest form ever recorded. “Lie Of The Land” displays the Sharp “electro-acoustic” in all its glory, behind some alternate and very interesting lyrics. “Reason 41” follows, and it has to be the best version of this song ever recorded. Except for a slight off-key harmonica blast near the end, this song is perfect, and shows what a masterpiece this Sharp/Peters collaboration really was before it got left behind for other tracks. The album continues with “The Deceiver” a less-gothic, less abstract version than the one found on the “Declaration” album. Next up is a demo of “What Kind Of Hell”. Although the recording level is a bit low (this might be fixed in the final remastering), the song in this form rocks! Think of the version “Second Generation Vol 1”, as played by wild natives. It is really remarkable. The final song in this section is “68 Guns”, and early version that sparkles like a ball of raw, focused energy.

Next up are the single/E.P. versions of “Marching On”, “Across The Border” and “Lie Of The Land”. All sound great because we can finally hear them on CD. The album then moves from 1982 to 1983. And we get a trio of Mick Glossop produced songs. “The Stand”, which needs no introduction, “Blaze Of Glory”, and “Thoughts Of A Young Man”. “Blaze Of Glory” is a version recorded in 1983, which appeared on the b-side of the “Absolute Reality” 12-inch single in 1985. To many die-hard fans, this is ultimate version of the song. It is tight, explosiove impassioned and wonderful. Legend has it that this is one of The Alarm songs that Bono heard and helped shape the direction of U2 in the following years. Yes my friends, the album critics might have always called The Alarm a rip-off of U2, but maybe, just maybe, it was the other way around. Hmm. Not to get too sidetracked, but has anyone ever noticed just how-much “Joshua Tree” sounds inspired by The Alarm from this era? Harmonicas, acoustic guitars, cowboy hats, stuff that U2 rarely delved into prior, but The Alarm had been using since their inception. Hmm. Anyhow, I digress., but it is something to think about. The third song in the “salute to Mick Glossop” is “Thoughts Of A Young Man”, a song in the form of a letter with a cool, guitar-crunching ending.

The fourth section of this album plays like a mini Alarm concert from 1983. It begins with the live version of “For Freedom” from the E.P/The Stand 12”., still as good a stomping rocker as The Alarm ever produced. Next up is a new, never released live version of “The Deceiver”, which sounds a bit faster and more anthemic than any other released version. “Third Light” (live) , “Lie Of The Land”(live) (count ‘em, three version on one CD) “A Legal Matter” (live), and the rarer “Marching On” (live) follow, all gloriously vibrant, and raucous in a way only The Alarm could have performed them on stage.

The album finishes with the single version of “68 guns”, that adds a drum-count by Twist at the beginning. This song rounds out The Alarm’s output for 1983. While not a totally remarkable ending, it is fitting for this collection. What we have here is not just a repackaging of an E.P. with some bonus tracks, but instead, a remarkable rock n’ roll journey. One that takes the listener from Rhyl bedrooms, to record company basements, through sweaty live shows in downtown London and the New York, all the way to the top-10 singles charts in the UK. This is the prelude to greater things to come, the opening shot in a battle to win the hearts and minds of music fans around the world. This is an amazing document, and one that should not be missed under any circumstances.

I suppose it is fitting that start here with "Raw" as my first "preview-review" of "The Alarm 2000" releases, because, frankly, it has always been my least favorite of The Alarm’s studio albums. To me, the original sounded disjointed, messy and rushed. This was a far-cry from the lush and cohesive "Change" from two years prior. I always felt that "Raw" was missing something. After listening to the "Alarm 2000" version, I know what it was: more good songs.

Basically, this version of "Raw" pulls together all the songs that were originally recorded for the album, before the "Standards" greatest-hits album got in the way. "The Road", "Unsafe Building 1990", "Up For Murder 1990", and "Happy Xmas (war is over)" are all here in their full-glory. This may not sound like a huge addition, but when heard in context, they really changed my impression of the album.

"The Road" blasts off the collection in the proper manner. It is essentially the same as the version from "Standards", except it contains a tighter vocal-track than the previously released version. This is a good thing, as Mike Peters' vocals have been reigned in a bit, and sound more earthy and real. Next up, an extended version of "Rockin' In The Free World", that (as my brother pointed out) now contains the "good part" of the song. It includes.the final climax of Neil Young's masterpiece , and it sounds fantastic. Next up is "Raw", which sounds better here because it does not have the pressure of starting-off the album. After "Raw" a version of "The wind Blows Away My Words" with a tighter vocal-track, similar to the one in the new version of "The Road". In this case, it does not make the song better or worse (it is still my personal favorite song from the album) but simply sounds great. "Unsafe building 1990" continues the trend of longer songs, with an uncut version that contains a proper ending. "Moments In Time" is essentially unchanged, but the next song is not. "Let The River Run It's Course" contains a masterful, uncut ending that rally shows off Dave sharp's guitar-prowess. This used to be one of my least favorite songs, but here it takes on new life. It is one of the better tracks on the album.

"Raw" continues with "God Save Somebody", "Lead Me Through The Darkness", "Hell Or Highwater", and then quickly switches gears to include "Save Your Cryin'" (if only Mike Peters could have found a version of this like the 1986 demo, now THAT would have been something), "Wonderful World", "Up for Murder 1990", "Happy Xmas (war is over)". All of these songs are essentially the same as "Raw", and need no further comment.

However, the last song on the album comes as a complete surprise (unless you read the sleeve notes that is). "Walk Forever By My Side" is an acoustic take with Dave Sharp and Mike Peters playing dueling guitars. The acoustics are bright and colorful, the vocals as great as ever. If a single could be released from this entire 150-song set, this would be my choice. It shows The Alarm at their best. Simple, yet ultimately complex if you delve into it's deeper meaning.

With all of its extras and surprises, "Raw" receives the "Most Improved" award from me. It is not the best in the collection, but it light-years beyond the version released in 1991. If this is the final album from "The Alarm", at least it now shows they did not falter and drift away, but instead were making vital and exciting music until the day they broke-up.

*Update*
***********
Dave's new album is named "New Clear Age" and so is the upcoming tour. Also, October 2nd tour date in Chester added. See below
***********

Full details of Dave Sharp's "New Clear Age" UK Mini Tour have now been confirmed. Please note that the Rock 4 Kids Benefit Show & the tour warm up in Eccles have been moved forward one day from the previously announced dates

He will be joined on most dates by his band The Hard Travellers (UK version) and on the remainder by The Acoustic Terrorists (as seen at Greenbelt 1991)

Dates:
22rd September - Town Hall, Eccles, Manchester (Free warm up show)
23rd September - Band On The Wall, Manchester ("Rock 4 Kids" benefit show)
29th September - Cumberland Arms, Newcastle (Acoustic Terrorists)
30th September - King Tuts Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow
1st October - Bourbon Street, Glasgow (Dave Sharp mailing list show)
2nd October - Telford warehouse, Chester

Further details on the tour dates page, or see www.dave-sharp.co.uk

The album "New Clear Age" will be released later this year.

Mojo magazine saluted The Alarm this month with a "Family Twig", which is effectively a family-tree of the artist in The Alarm. Click on the photo below to see their handiwork.

Well after the announcement of the Mailinglist show last week ticket sales are
going well. We also have a new show to add to the previous ones.

This will be at the Town Hall, Eccles Manchester on the Saturday before the charity show. This will be a free event and will be classed as a band warm up show. Full tour dates at the moment are as follows -:

Saturday 23rd September

Town Hall
Church Street
Eccles
Manchester

Free Show

Tel 0161-707-8106

Show starts 8pm please come early to avoid disapointment.

ROCK 4 KIDS

Charity Show
Band on the Wall
25 Swan Street
Northern Quarter
Manchester

Tickets £12.50

The event is limited to 240 tickets

Credit Card booking 0161-832-6625

Bands involved in the Event

Spear of Destiny
Dave Sharp & The hard Travelers
Toby Bourke
Charlie McIntosh Band
Paul Ferguson (Killing Joke)



For more details on hotels and travel please visit Charlie McIntosh site at www.charliemcintosh.co.uk

Swampmash 2
Bourbon Street
108 George Street
Glasgow

Ticket price £5

The official Mailing list show and end of Tour party. New Orleans Come to Glasgow
with all the fun of Bourbon Street included.

Tickets are available from the venue or by credit card at the booking office
on 0141-552-0141

Or by Cheque or postal order made payable to R. Edmond

send to

R. Edmond
156 Oronsay Avenue
Port Glasgow
PA14 6EG
Scotland



The Mailing list show will be totally different from any show on the tour and
look out for a few special guest.



We will keep you all posted on any more up dates as they happen.

Please keep checking out the official Website

www.dave-sharp.co.uk

For years we've all known and loved Mike Peters as singer, songwriter, rock
star and general all-round good guy. Now add another to the list: Raconteur.

At Alarm Day 2000 Mike treated a lucky few of his fans (though surely more
than the 200 expected?) to a string of stories, some well known, some not
so, between the songs. The format of the day was Mike, solo and acoustic,
running through almost the entire Alarm back catalogue, with commentary,
album by album, taking a short break at the end of each album's-worth.

To be truthful Mike's voice wasn't at it's best. He was suffering from cold
and it showed, but it didn't really matter. His obvious love for the subject
matter, along with ours, carried him through it and his voice did improve
considerably as the day went on.

Taking breaks into account, Mike was onstage for around nine hours, although
the stage changed location as he took us outside for the Eye Of The
Hurricane section. Musical highlights were many - snippets of Take Me Home
and Alarm Alarm, a beautiful Welsh language version of A New South Wales,
Rain In The Summertime sung outdoors under threatening skies - and a
surprising high point when he stood back and simply played the CD of the
fabulous "new" electric version of One Step Closer. It received the loudest
cheer of the day, and rightly so. As a toast to absent friends, it couldn't
be bettered.

The advertised question and answer sessions never really materialised,
although Mike fully responded to the few questions that were posed from the
floor. But it didn't need to, as he brought up everything that any Alarm fan
would have reasonably asked anyway. How the band started, how they wrote
songs, what his relationship with Dave Sharp was (and is), what really
happened at Brixton; All of these and many more questions didn't need to be
asked - he offered the information willingly though, at times, painfully.

Mike took us through a whole range of emotions from roaring laughter (when
recounting being asked to look after a "huge bag of white powder" by one of
The Stray Cats) to tears (more than one person left the room during Moments
in Time). The things that stood out more than anything though was his
immense love and respect for the three other band members, and his pride in
the body of work that they had produced.

As a backstage look into the birth, life and death of a successful rock
group, the day was an eye-opener.

As a celebration of the music of The Alarm, it was simply beautiful.

-Shaun Finnie

BBC Music Live
Mike Peters will be at the BBC Roadshow in Wrexham Town Centre on Monday 29th May. He will be there to show his support to a terrific young Welsh band, "X-ELL" who are headlining the Wrexham event.
Mike has been helping them out over recent months & they come highly recommended by everybody at the MPO. Mike may play a song or two at the event, travel plans permitting, but he is not confirmed to do so.
He recommends anyone who is in the area on Monday check X-ELL out.

BBC Documentary
A BBC TV crew will be at Mike Peter's "Alarm 2000" day in North Wales on Sunday 28th May.
A 30 minute documentary about the event is being made for future broadcast.

This Just-in from Charlie MacIntosh:

There is a chance that Twist might not be able to attend, so the official line-up is as follows:

DAVE SHARP AND THE HARD TRAVELLER'S(UK)
KIRK BRANDON AND SPEAR OF DESTINY
TOBY BOURKE
BIG PAUL FERGUSON from KILLING JOKE
CHARLIE McINTOSH BAND
SPECIAL GUESTS; Steve Alan Jones,Joe Delorenzo,Lesley Wood-Brooks

Tickets should be going on sale in about 4 to 6 weeks.
Dave will also be playing in London, Newcastle and Glasgow around the same
time,the last week in September, hopefully with a new record in hand.

Dave & The US Hard Travellers will be playing a full electric show at Tipitinas in New Orleans on 15th June. Check tour dates page or www.dave-sharp.co.uk for more info.

ALARM 2000 DAY - TICKETS BEING MAILED THIS WEEK

Alarm 2000 Day taking place on May 28th is totally SOLD OUT. TicKets are being mailed out at the end of this week, May 12th together with directions to the Faenol Fawr Country House Hotel.

ALARM 2000 COLLECTION - RELEASE DATE MAY 31ST

The Alarm 2000 Collection is available to order now at a price of £99.99 + £3 p&p/£168 + $10 p&p Please provide details of your choice of dedication song when ordering your collection.. The official release date for the Alarm 2000 Collection is May 31st.

MIKE PETERS ON BBC DIGITAL CHOICE AND HTV

A feature appeared on Mike Peters on BBC Digital Choice this week outlining his current status and career in the heirarchy of Welsh Rock. This week, Mike films a special feature for HTV detailing the work behind the scenes for the Alarm 2000 Collection. This feature will most likely be screened on Friday 26th May at 11.30pm.

MIKE PETERS AND BIG COUNTRY

Following on from a very successful tour in Holland and Germany, Mike Peters appears with a full electric line up as Special Guest to Big Country in the UK in May.


FLESH AND BLOOD:RECEIVING FANTASTIC REVIEWS

Flesh and Blood has received fantastic reviews (coming soon to www.mikepetersweb.com) and the soundtrack has been received tremendously well by MPO and non-MPO members alike. Flesh and Blood, the soundtrack written by Mike Peters is available at £14.99 + £1 p&p. Flesh and Blood, the video, featuring MikePeters and Eddie Macdonald in concert together at the BBc is available to order at the price of £14.99 + £1 p&p

GATHERING 9 - A ROCK ODYSSEY - 12TH AND 13TH JAN 2000

Tickets are selling remarkably fast and early for Gathering 9, A Rock Odyssey, taking place on the 12 and 13th January 2001 at the North Wales Theatre Llandudno. Tickets are on sale now - Weekend ticket price £26

(the following is from the Charlie Mcintosh web site)

Preparations are nearly completed for a charity fund-raising concert in aid of The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in Pendlebury, Greater Manchester.

The concert will be part of the Manchester In The City Festival and will take place at The Band On The Wall in Manchester on Sunday Evening 24th September.

All of the proceeds from the show will go to The Heywood Ward, of The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Pendlebury.

Autograph and photo sessions with the artists will take place before the show.

Please note:
Any recording of the show is strictly prohibited.
The show will be recorded and the proceeds of sales will go to the hospital charity fund.

ARTIST'S WHICH HAVE BEEN CONFIRMED

Dave Sharp and The Hard Travelers (UK)
with special guest Nigel Twist

Toby Bourke

Kirk Brandon and Spear Of Destiny

Big Paul Ferguson from Killing Joke

Charlie McIntosh Band
with special guest Steve Allen Jones

For tickets contact:

www.bandonthewall.com

The hospital has been treating Charlie's two year old daughter, Sarah. The goal is to raise funds to upgrade various out-dated monitoring equipment essential to the neurological ward at the hospital.

For information and enquiries you can email Charlie at:

charlie@charliemcintosh.co.uk

Dave Sharp will be playing The Band On The Wall, Manchester, UK on
the 24th September 2000. This show is part of Manchester's In The City Music Industry Conference & Festival and will be a benefit show for Manchester Sick Childrens Hospital.
Show times and ticket details will be announced soon.

Full Line up at the moment is as follows :-

Dave Sharp & The Hard Travellers UK version plus Special Guest Nigel Twist

Kirk Brandon & Spear of Destiny

Charlie McIntosh Band

plus more to be confirmed. Please check www.dave-sharp.co.uk for more details
as they happen.

THURSDAY MAY 18th - CAMBRIDGE, JUNCTION 01223 511511
FRIDAY 19TH MAY - NORWICH, UEA 01603 505 401
SATURDAY 20TH MAY - LONDON, SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE 020 7771 2000
SUNDAY 21ST MAY - WOLVERHAMPTON, CIVIC HALL 01902 552121
TUESDAY 23RD MAY - MILTON KEYNES, STANTONBURY CAMPUS
WEDNESDAY 24TH MAY - NOTTINGHAM, ROCK CITY 0115 958 8484
THURSDAY 25TH MAY - LEEDS, TOWN AND COUNTRY 0113 280 0100
SATURDAY 27TH MAY - MANCHESTER, ACADEMY 0161 832 1111
MONDAY 29TH MAY - DUBLIN, OLYMPIA
TUESDAY 30TH MAY - BELFAST, WATERFRONT
WEDNESDAY 31ST MAY - GLASGOW,BARROWLANDS 0141 287 5511

Mike Peters finished his European tour in Holland with a rousing final night
joined by Big Country's Bruce Watson and Mark Brzezicki. The power trio
performed versions of 'Knockin' on Heaven's Door' and 'Rockin' in the Free
World'. The boys enjoyed it so much that they are hoping to continue their
jamming sessions when they resume touring in the UK. Mike took the
opportunity of being on the road to record hundreds and hundreds of
personalised songs and dedications for the forthcoming Alarm 2000
Collection. Mike recorded at every soundcheck, every concert, in his
dressing room and even back in his hotel room! Mike was spotted dazed and
exhausted at the BA Desk at Schipol/Amsterdam airport after a long overnight
drive (Thanks to super Dutch Mike Peters/Coloursound fan, Jan-Paul
Hendricks!!) to catch his plane in time for a New York-bound flight where
he is now heading on a business-pleasure trip... During the stopover in
England, Mike bumped into Elvis Costello and the two acoustic troubadours
shared a chat about the joys of solo acoustic touring...

On the 24th April, at 23.40 Mike Peters appears on 'Art Talks' , a series of
8 half hour chat shows presented by Welsh personality, Mal Pope. Mike will
be joined by Dai Davies, who has managed many bands over the years, and is
now a director of Sanctuary Group which operates studios and production
companies in London together with music writer, Simon Price who wrote for
"Melody Maker" music paper for 9 years and now writes for "Mojo" and
"Flipside". He also recently wrote the "Manic St. Preachers" biography,
"Everything Must Go".

MIKE PETERS IN GERMANY
Mike Peters is currently in Germany on tour with Big Country playing to
capacity crowds and reaquainting with Alarm fans. Mike is enjoying his
return after his last visit in 1997. MP as been extremely busy recording
many of the Alarm 2000 dedications at the soundcheck, in his dressing room,
in his hotel room on his portable studio. Mike has even been recording some
songs at German radio stations like NDR 4 with DJ Paul Baskerville. A one
hour show on Mike from NDR 4 will be broadcast in Germany in early June.
Mike is looking forward to taking his Travelling Dedication Roadshow to
Holland next. MPO would like to thank the British fans who have made it out
to the shows.

MIKE ON TV
At the end of April, Mike will be appearing on HTV's Art Talks Show along
with guests Dai Davies from Sanctuary Records and NME journalist and writer,
Simon Price.

ALARM 2000 DAY
Alarm 2000 Day is totally sold out. For those of you still seeking
accomodationm, camping is available in the grounds of the country house for
a nominal fee.

MIKE PETERS AND BIG COUNTRY IN THE UK
Mike and the boys are very much looking forward to returning to the UK in
May. Mike will be playing with a full electric line up and for those of you
who witnessed the shows in December, you will know that this tour promises
to be really special!

I feel it is time once again to address recent rumours concerning
upcoming Alarm projects.

Unfortunately, due to prior commitments, I shall be unable to take part in Alarm 2000, nor shall I be able to appear on the road with Big Country and The Alarm. I am a heartfelt fan and supporter of Big Country and I wish Stuart and the boys every success, both on the road and in the studio.

I continue to look forward to an opportunity for a pint and chat with Mike Peters sometime in the future, although The Alarm is not a scheduled topic.

I miss you all very much, and I hope to see you soon with a new album and tour. Erin will make herself available on the Digest from time to time to answer any questions you may have.

Once again, all activities concerning myself are posted on the Dave Sharp UK Website. Any information, tour dates, or appearances of any kind cannot be considered fact unless posted on this site.

Accept no immitations!

Stay safe. See you all soon.

Dave (and The Hard Travelers)

The Official Dave Sharp Website
www.dave-sharp.co.uk

Please keep in touch with MPO for news of extra dates to be added:

THURSDAY 18TH MAY - CAMBRIDGE, JUNCTION
FRIDAY 19TH MAY - NORWICH, UEA
SATURDAY 20TH MAY - LONDON, SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE
SUNDAY 21ST MAY - WOLVERHAMPTON, CIVIC HALL
TUESDAY 23RD MAY - MILTON KEYNES, STANTONBURY CAMPUS
WEDNESDAY 24TH MAY - NOTTINGHAM, ROCK CITY
THURSDAY 25TH MAY - LEEDS, TOWN AND COUNTRY
SATURDAY 27TH MAY - MANCHESTER, ACADEMY
MONDAY 29TH MAY - DUBLIN,OLYMPIA
TUESDAY 30TH MAY - BELFAST, WATERFRONT
WEDNESDAY 31ST MAY - GLASGOW,BARROWLANDS

MPO can confirm rumours that Mike Peters will be touring with an electric
line-up in May as Special Guest to Big Country. MPO is still awaiting final
confirmation from Big Country's Management but in the meantime the dates
read as follows.

18th May Cambridge Junction
19th May Norwich UEA
20th May London Shepherd's Bush Empire
21st May Wolves Civic
24th May Nottingham Rock City
25th May Leeds Town and Country
27th May Manchester University
28th Alarm 2000 Day, Bodelwyddan, North Wales SOLD OUT (Please call 01745
571571 to be included on Waiting List)
29th May Glasgow Barrowlands

The following is a message from Dave Sharp, to all the fans, in regards to the rumours of an Alarm reunion.

I understand that there has been a lot of speculation about Mike and I reforming
the Alarm this year. Now, let me set the record straight. Yes, it's true that
Mike and I have spoken, but the only thing that I can confirm is that once our solo records are out of the way, sometime over this summer, we both decided that we will get together and talk about the possibilities of future collaboration
later in the year. This does not mean an Alarm reunion, and as of now, there
is no set date for any of this to take place. However, I know how anxious all
the fans are for a reunion, or at least for Mike and I to play together again.

I'm not saying this will not happen, but I cannot see it happening in the immediate
future. I felt I needed to set the record straight, as there are so many rumours
floating about. I will keep everyone updated on all the latest news about this, through Charlie McIntosh and James Edmond at Scotland Calling. I'm looking forward
to seeing everyone on my next tour. Take Care, and Keep the Faith.

Dave Sharp

>

MPO Round up of Latest News

Alarm 2000 Day taking place on May 28th is totally SOLD OUT. Please leave your name and number if you are interested in being added to a waiting list for last minute returns.

The Alarm 2000 Collection is available to order now at a price of £99.99 + £3 p&p/£168 + $10 p&p (please see Alarm 2000 ordering section)

Mike Peters and Billy Duffy have recently spent time together remixing tracks for the US Coloursound release. Billy and The Cult are currently on tour in South Africa with Lenny Kravitz.

Mike Peters appears as Special Guest to Big Country on tour in Germany and Holland through the month ofApril (please see tour dates section). Rumours suggest that Mike and the band will be touring with Big Country in the UK in May/June.

'Flesh and Blood' the play can be seen at the Hampstead Theatre between the 21st march and 8th April. Please call for ticket information on 020 7722 9301. Mike Peters will be in the audience of the Hampstead performance at the press night on the 23rd March. Flesh and Blood has been receiving rave reviews in the Gurdian and Independent. Flesh and Blood is available at £14.99 + £1 p&p. Flesh and Blood, the video, featuring MikePeters and Eddie Macdonald in concert together at the BBc is available to order at the price of £14.99 + £1 p&p

'Sharp End'  On Thursday 30th March, Mike Peters can be seen on HTV's popular political programme 'Sharp End' at 11.30pm. Reporter Mark Hannaby approached MPO to ask if Mike would be interested in taking part in the programme. This programme features Mike as a substantial part of the film and concentrates on issues surrounding music in Wales (please see separate news item all about 'Sharp End')

Mike Peters' Plumbing News! For those of you who like to stay in on a Saturday Night in the UK and watch 'Blind Date' and 'Stars in Your Eyes', Mike Peters would like to proudly point out that the David Bowie pretender o.k.a Rob Hughes from Prestatyn is actually Mike's chief waterworks operator. Rob does in fact sing non-stop Bowie songs as he works!

 

MIKE PETERS APPEARS ON HTV: SHARP END
On Thursday 30th March, Mike Peters can be seen on HTV's political programme 'Sharp End'  (11.30pm) Reporter Mark Hannaby approached MPO to ask if Mike would be interested in taking part in the programme. This programme features Mike as a substantial part of the film and concentrates on issues surrounding music in Wales, especially the difficulties facing young people who wish to develop talents in either rock or classical music.Mike has been asked for some of his views on music in Wales. Does he feel things are more or less difficult for young bands now than they were when he was starting out? Does he feel that music is sufficiently valued and encouraged in Wales? What kind of points are young musicians making to him? Does he think a certain amount of music potential in Wales may be going to waste? What can the National Assembly and others do to develop musical talent? Could the success of Welsh rock be used as a platform to revitalise tourism in Wales etc.etc.
 
Mike was interviewed with fellow young Welsh rock band - X-ELL. X-ELL are a rock pop band made up of 3 brothers (aged 11, 15 and 17) from North Wales who have approached Mike for help and guidance. Watch this space...

ALARM 2000 DAY taking place on 28th May , Bank Holiday Weekend is SOLD OUT! The response to the weekend has been phenomenal with the concert selling out in 7 days. MPO has now created a reserve list for last minute returns. If you wish to be included on this list then please contact MPO asap. Watch out now for further Alarm 2000 Days around the globe...

Today, as I travel by train from Turin to Rome, I take time to reflect on the Millennium Gathering... For me, the Gathering has become a momentous moment in the MPO Calendar. Each year, the Gathering gains more significance for all of us and it is with great emotion that I watch Mike walk out on that special Friday night to a rapturous welcome from his most amazing fans. I think both the audience and the MPO are saturated with the weight of expectation and it is a nervous time for each and everyone of us (Mike included) as we hope and pray that the Gathering weekend will live up to all the hype!

This Gathering weekend passed in a blur... From a production point of view, it was the busiest yet. In this, I was aided by my co-pilot of MPO Productions, Danny Cohen, Editor of the 21st Century Fanzine. Danny plays an integral role in pulling the whole weekend together. His attention to detail is immaculate and it is this application of loving care which helps to make the weekend run so smoothly. Danny works very closely with Mike and responds to Mike's every wish and command as the weekend progresses. As you can imagine, Mike rcsponds very much to the 'moment 'and as a consequence Danny is often faced with the ultimate challenge at the very last minute.

In fact, I owe much to the MPO Team. Mike Jones, the sound engineer preciously guards his sound and masterfully crafts a superb acoustic and electric sonic background for the occasion. Behind the scenes, Steve Nightrider Jones keeps the band tuned up, stringed up, watered up and whatever else they require in the 'upped up' department. This year, we were joined on lights by Alarm stalwart and the man that taught me all there is to know about 'Tour Mangagement', Mr. Bobby Troman, whom I think, we will all agree, lit the band magnificently!!! In the wings, here there and everywhere, flies the wonderful 'Webby' who is at our beck and call for all those last minute requests like 'Can you go to Asda again for more beer, please Webby?' (

How could I forget my MPO Department Store Team, made up from the very finest MPO members, the MPO ambassadors who attend and assist at MPO concerts all over the country and all over the world. Here at the Gathering, the MPO Merch Team face their biggest challenge. The MPO Shop, on a par with Man Utd Merchandise, offers a gigantic choice of T shirts and 21st Century Clothing and it is the Merch Team who gamely grapple with MPO 'produce' all weekend long, assisting guys like 'The Fat Boyz' who yearn for XXL size MPO T shirts!

The North Wales Theatre Management and crew are another integral link, opening their doors to us and allowing us to transform the theatre into the MPO House Party. Big thanks to Nick, Adrian, Huw and Adam together with all the backroom boys and girls who ensure the efficient running of the event.

In charge of the Guest List and Box Office we are in the safe hands of Mr. Donald Klein, all the way from New Jersey, USA...Chief of the MPO Department Store is Dot, Marj, the Tea lady and Butty Maker (also known as Mike's Mum) Andy , the MPO Scmoozer, Laurie and Jamie the 'B' Production Team, Gary Dewart, our accommodating Sponsor, Mr. Miller, the PA Boyos (Buzz and Hubert) who make the sound all possible, Mr. Modnuss Modnussen and his lovely assistants, Leslie and Chris, Dr K , for all his invaluable artistic assistance and of course Peter, the Godfather of the MPO, without whom...

And then there's you ... the best audience in the world...

As the doors open and a river of faces pour by I stand amazed at the loyalty displayed to Mike and the music of The Alarm - as people from allover the word make the trip to the picturesque Victorian town of Llandudno North Wales. As a teenager, growing up in North Wales, Mike the young boy, staring out at the Mersey Lights, could only have dreamt of such things..

Back in 1992 when Mike first conceived the idea of the Gathering, I remember vividly Mike scribbling letters to the original 687 members of the Fan Club to invite them to his own Christmas bash in the hometown of The Alarm, (the mecca of North Wales and my home-stomping ground), Rhyl.

Little did we realise what Mike had started. From Rhyl to Llandudno and now the eighth time we have all taken the time and the trouble to gather and celebrate the music of Mike and The Alarm, past, present and future...

This year, the lead up to the Gathering was faster and more furious than ever before. Mike and I were still recovering from the aftershocks of the colossal North American and Mexican tour. Mike in truth was as fresh as a daisy (the constitution of a horse was in fact the description afforded to Mike during his 1995 health tussle!). I meanwhile had been knocked sideways by influenza, caught sadly on the 19th Dec at the Cottier Theatre in Glasgow. That night was a very special Mike Peters performance but horrendously cold and much to my cost.

Consequently, Christmas in the Peters' household is traditionally given over to preparations for the Gathering weekend. No matter how hard one prepares in the lead-up to the Gathering, the attention to detail demanded is all consuming...

This year, the lead-up was enhanced by the potential apperance of Mr. #. Whilst appreciating the significance of Dave's appearance at the Gathering, I admit to a large inward sigh of relief upon Dave's last-minute change of plans. (I know, shame on me..) After already accommodating Mr. Duffy, Mr. Macdonald, Mr. Taylor and many others in the past, I knew only too well how much more workload the 'special guest' creates. Once it became clear that Sharpy was not coming, 'SuperMike' set about trying to make it possible over the internet. I groaned as Mike instructed me to check out the possibility of connecting the Kerry Bar, New Orleans and the North Wales Theatre via video link whilst at the same time admiring his energy and enthusiasm. Eventually, it was decided that Dave would record a video message instead and Fedex it to Llandudno. We waited and waited and we waited but the tape sadly never arrived (it did arrive eventually on the Monday morning). However, all was not lost when Dave telephoned the Gathering on the Friday night, totally unarranged, and by a miracle we were able to thrust the cell phone at Mike just as he was departing the stage after a rapturous 'Walk Forever By My Side'. It was a fitting ending to the night as Mike held up the cell phone to the microphone, instructed the packed house to be silent, as Dave Sharp was faintly heard wishing the assembled MPO-ers 'Happy New Year'...

The week leading up to the Gathering consisted of marathon MPO sessions and of course non-stop band rehearsals. Being reunited with Craig Adams, James Stevenson and Steve Grantley is always a total pleasure and they are welcomed home warmly. We even manage to sneak a few wild sessions down the local, sans Mike who is usually elsewhere plotting and planning some new venture. My only fear was that the boys seeemed much more obsessed with the 'Children of the Revolution' rather than perfecting new Alarm songs and Mike Peters' compositions. Every time I popped by rehearsals, they were stood there caught with their pants down and their wigs on (I kid you not) and every time I arrived home there they were sheepishly huddled around the stereo and Mike's Glam Rock Collection. I feared the worst.. :)

However, as they are Rock stalwarts, they were also feverishly devouring Alarm songs and Mike Peters ditties at an Alarming pace. I've never quite experienced musicians who are so able to play Alarm songs to perfection and for those of you lucky enough to see Mike and the boys supporting Big County in December, it was universally agreed that this is 'as good as it gets' in an electric sense.

The Gathering 8 went pretty much to perfection, it has to be said. Mike worked tirelessly to make sure that almost every song you could ever dream of from his solo and Alarm collection was played. It was a marathon session for both band and audience as the weekend unfolded. I'll leave the details to those who came, saw and conquered but for me and the rest of the MPO Crew, we felt exhausted and exhilirated by the Sunday, happy in the knowledge that we had all given it our all...

...Here in Rome, we had barely recovered from the Gathering weekend, and it was a welcome surprise to receive such a warm and enthusiastic reception from our Italian friends. Following on from The Alarm's success in Italy, Mike is now forging a solid solo career with regular six monthly trips which naturally, I find to be one of the more difficult aspects to Mike's touring activities :) It was obviously a strain explaining the philosophies of the MPO to all those Italian male fans but I fought gamely on:)

I'm speeding through the Italian experience somewhat because as you have probably gathered, I have shirked my 'Jules News' responsibilities recently, not because there is not enough to report, but absolutely because there is too much to report...

The month is now March and Mike is currently in Los Angeles and New York (yes, I know, hard life). I declined the offer to accompany him (despite the temptation of spending a week with Billy in LA) mainly in part to the busy nature of MPO HQ. There has been no let-up since the Gathering and here we all are, already planning the Alarm 2000 Day and balancing the plates of the Alarm 2000 Collection. There are only a few tickets left on this day, March 7th and 'Walk Forever' has already been requested over 300 times! To clarify, Mike will be recording each track individually so there will be 300 subtly different versions of 'Walk Forever' dedication CD's floating around!

With regards to Alarm 2000 Day, Twist can't make it and Sharp is still thinking about it, although # recently issued a statement saying that it was unlikely. We shall see. In any event, Mike will no doubt host Alarm 2000 Day in the U.S, maybe in New Orleans...? The UK day looks like it will be very special with Mike performing the entire Alarm catalogue in one marathon day, complete with question and answer analysis and other Peters' surprises along the way.

Mike called me from New York this morning where he's having a wonderful time, hanging out with old friends. NYC is a bit of a home from home for Mike as he has a strong circle of friends there. In fact, he's probably out shopping for shirts on the streets of Manhattan, right now. He had an industrious time in California too, hanging out with Steve Fulton, our very own WebMaster and staying over with our very own Billy Duffy (currently working with Ian Astbury in LA on the new Cult record). Mike and Billy were in town together to oversee the remixes of the Coloursound session (4 tracks) for future release in the USA. A new photo session was undertaken also (another excuse for more shirt-buying) and so it's all exciting stuff. Mike and Billy have also begun work on the new Coloursound record and decided to keep these new compositions off the US Coloursound eponymous release in preparation for the second Coloursound album. The band for the millennium, otherwise known as Coloursound, also took time out to hang out in some salubrious LA nightspots where they were spotted indulging in a spot of socialising with Alarm fan, Billy Corgan, from Smashing Pumpkins and Twiggy from Marilyn Manson.

I'm recovering from a spot of socialisng myself actually (surprise surprise) and the jack and ginger is avenging me big time as the day progresses. When will I ever learn? You would have thought my Mexican pebble-dashing session would have taught me a lesson. On top of that I have to make a quick recovery in preparation for the Mikey Boy's return and our Big Friday Night out down the local later this week...

I'll leave you at this point and promise faithfully to be more efficient in future. There is much to discuss ahead and very exciting times to be had... Next time tune in for the very latest Jules' News on Mike's NYC shopping spree, Mike and Big Country in Europe, Alarm 2000 Day, the Alarm 2000 Collection, Coloursound and Mike's 'Walk Forever' induced insanity...

Bye for now,

Jules News

The MPO Phoneline has been red hot all week since the announcement of Alarm 2000 Day. The Faenol Fawr Country Hotel is sold out. For further accommodation details please call Rhyl Tourist Board on 01745 355068 or choose from a selection of hotels/ B&B's as follows:
Bodelwyddan Castle 01745 585088
Chalet Guest House 01745 584205
Kinmel Manor Hotel 01745 832014
Oriel House Hotel 01745 582716
Plas Elwy Hotel 01745 582263
Talardy Hotel 01745 584957
Please call MPO on 01745 571571 if you require further help. MPO urges you to move quick next week if you are wishing to purchase tickets for Alarm 2000 Day.

Mike Peters has requested that anyone who has photos of any of the folloing to contact him immediately at mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk:

1. May 28, May 29th 1983 @ Marquee
2. Nov. 11th, 1985 @ Boston Orpheum
3. Dec. 15, 1987 @ Chicago Vic
4. Apr. 26, 1988 @ Wang Center, Boston
5. Jun. 30th, 1991 @ Brixton Academy

Review of Flesh and Blood (the play and Mike's birthday performance) by Willie Tocher

Flesh And Blood' is a play written by Helen Griffin, with a cast of four : Vernon, the Father of the Family (Brian Hibbard known to most as one of the Flying Pickets, who has appeared in many Theatre productions for over 30 years, as well as television credits including Coronation Street, Casualty, Making Out, Denziel And Pascoe, and whose Film appearances include Twin Towers, Rainbow Thief, House Of America and Rancid Aluminium) ; his wife, Marge (played by Di Botcher who previous credits include TV's The Bill,Kavanagh QC and Sunburn, to name a few, in addition to a long and impressive list of Theatre Productions) ; the daughter Serena (Michele McTernan, upcoming actress, who is also an experienced singer and dancer) ; and son Steve (played by Steven Meo, another rising star of the boards).Helen Griffin's play offers a new perspective of contemporary Wales (which has it's own unique social and political achievements and failures, but at the same time shares many universal experiences that can be found throughout Britain) - the lives of one family at the beginning of the 21st Century; something far from the promoted 'Cool Cymru' and far less glamorous. It asks some very difficult questions that, as an audience, we would sometimes choose to ignore; the negative side of nationalism, the destructive results of misplaced pride.With powerful acting and some superb humour from the four fine performers, the play asks those questions through the life of one family, making the issues accessible and understandable. It's a family that we all recognise. The play is a mirror that shows the naked truth of one aspect of life in Wales, but it could be any housing estate in any city in Britain. the issues and characters are universal and would be recognised by anyone.The arts community of Wales is well represented : The set painter, and photographer of pictures featured on the living room wall of the set are both Welsh; as are the writer Helen Griffin, Soundtrack writer and performer Mike Peters (exALaRM), the cast, the director Phil Clark, and many others involved with putting this excellent production together.

Mike Peters wrote the 13 songs for the soundtrack during a two hour sitting on Saturday 5th June 1999, when he read the 'Flesh And Blood' script for the first time. The opening song 'House Of Commons' was written during the reading of Scene One, then 'Life Can Beautiful' followed during the reading of Scene Two, and Scene Three gave rise to the title track 'Flesh And Blood'. This process continued, and by the completition of the first reading of the play Mike had written the entire basis for the soundtrack.

The 13 track 'Flesh And Blood' soundtrack was then recorded in two days flat, at the BBC Studios in Cardiff on December 3rd and 4th 1999. Mike was accompanied on the recording by former ALaRM bassist Eddie MacDonald, Poets of Justice bassist Dave Watkins-Clarke, drummer Tom Homewood, pianist Gill Edwards-Jones, a 12 piece string section from the Welsh College of Music and Drama, and the Morriston Orpheus Choir. As producer, Mike wanted the album to have the clarity of a studio recording while capturing the tension and atmosphere of a 'live' performance. So, 50 people were invited to attend the first day and a further 200 joined them for the second day, midday to midnight sessions and as a result there is a real vibrancy to the recordings.

The running order of the album incidentally, stays exactly as when the songs were composed. Mike wanted to keep the order in which they were first inspired by Helen's script, so that the listener, if they hadn't already 'seen' 'Flesh And Blood', could still experience the unfolding of this brilliant drama.

The play has been running at the Sherman Theatre since February 10th and ends it's 17 date run tonight (Saturday 26th February), before the play plays 3 other Welsh venue's :

Swansea Grand National Theatre, 29th February to 4th March, Theatr Hafren; Newtown on 15th March,Torch Theatre on 17th and 18th March 2000 in Milford Haven, prior to a 19 date run at London's Hampstead Theatre, commencing 21st March and running to 8th April 2000.

The CD and Video recording of the 'Flesh And Blood' soundtrack can be bought from the MPO by calling 01745 571571.

If you haven't seen the play yet I recommend that you get along and see it, for it is 2 hours of fantastic drama, that is both funny and serious, entertaining and thought provoking.

The performance of the play (Friday 25th February) also coincided with Mike Peters Birthday, and he performed a blistering 80 minute set to the 500 capacity crowd.Renditions of both some of the ALaRM classics mixed with his own solo works from the past 9 years saw Mike at his acoustic best, and included a midsection where he performed half a dozen tracks from the 'Flesh And Blood' soundtrack, including the upbeat 'Lucky Numbers' and 'A New Wales'.Mike Peters even informed the crowd that he was on Radio 1 that morning - "On the Alive or Dead" Question!! A rendition of Happy Birthday greeted Mike as he appeared for an encore, as the whole audience left Mike lost for words (a feat not often heard of), before the four cast members then reappeared on the stage with Writer Helen Griffin and Director Phil Clark armed with a Birthday Cake and joined him for the closing number 'Knockin' On Heaven's Door'.

I'd recommend you all to catch the 'Flesh And Blood' play soon, and while you are at it, check out Mike Peters, a man who seems to improve more with every year. Here's to many more Birthday Party's Mike!

Cheers,

Willie Tocher

 

Setlist

Unsafe Building

The Stand

Absolute Reality

Rise

High On The Hill

We Are The Light

House Of Commons

Life Can Be Beautiful

Flesh & Blood

Staring Into The Thin Air

If I Ruled The World

Lucky Numbers

St Davids Day

Walk Forever By My Side

A New Wales

Bells Of Rhymney

Breathe

Into The 21st Century

Declaration

Marching On

Where Were You Hiding

68 Guns

Spirit Of 76

Blaze Of Glory

Knocking On Heavens Door

Mike Peters ans Billy Duffy are both in LA, supervising the re-mix of the coloursound album with world-class producer/emgineer Jim Scott. The list of songs Scott has re-mixed are as follows:

1. Under The Sun
2. Fountainhead
3. State Of Independance
4. View From a Different Window

The re-mixed songs are the ones that might be chosen as singles from the album.

No new songs are being recorded. Mike and Billy have decided to save all new songs for their next album.

Mike and Billy are off on a photo-shoot today for Coloursound.

"It’s a Bank Holiday Weekend"

Sunday May 28th 2000 Faenol Fawr Country House Hotel

Bodelwyddan, Rhyl, North Wales.

To celebrate the release of The Alarm 2000 collection, Mike Peters will be hosting Alarm 2000 Day in a picturesque country house, the Faenol Fawr, just outside Rhyl, North Wales, the birthplace of The Alarm.

Mike Peters will perform all the songs from each Alarm album in sequence…an acoustic marathon taking in the entire works of The Alarm … this will be an epic challenge and every performance of each album wil be followed by a Q&A session with Mike whereby he will answer as many questions as possible relating to each of the five eras of Alarm history…

Tickets are strictly limited to 200 and are priced at £20.

Please call MPO now on 01745 571571 to book your ticket

or e-mail mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk

I think the people at King Biscuit would like this record to be cited as "King Biscuit: The Alarm", as if King Biscuit is such an enduring emblem of musical quality that it becomes the artist of these recordings, as if thinking people the world over are endeavoring to keep their King Biscuit collections complete, caring little whether the next installment features the Waitresses or Uriah Heap, just thrilled to know that another random hour of music has been aged to delicious perfection in an oaken vault buried deep under Cleveland, waiting for the perfect day when a bright young intern realized that legally, nobody could stop them from trundling out CDs of every minute they ever broadcast. Standing in the way of the noble dream of corporate brand-loyalty is the fact that the releases themselves have the shoddy look of an apprentice bootlegger's first surreptitious practice-run. The stenciled band-name, splintered-wood background, grainy computer-drawn flower and random song-title capitalization that adorn this package all look to me like the work of a twenty-two-year-old with a copy of Photoshop and an empty-handed courier idling in his doorway, working from the memory of having seen the cover of an Alarm record, once, at a friend's house, long ago, or was that The Armoury Show? The "Collector's Edition" liner notes devote one page to a wildly self-congratulatory essay about the King Biscuit Flower Hour itself, and two to an ineptly written and chronologically haphazard biography of the Alarm that can't even provide the date of this recording, much less anything a "Collector" didn't already know. Even the truncation of "King Biscuit Flower Hour" to "King Biscuit" irritates me, a corporation trying to assert its own familiarity, and in doing so deleting the only word of the name, "Hour", whose pertinence I ever understood. The production quality is woeful, at times losing entire instruments in the bowels of the mix, Dave Sharp's guitar somehow ending up sounding like the Wedding Present, Eddie Macdonald's bass rarely hitting two in-tune notes in succession, Mike Peters shouting to be heard over it all as if the band grew up so poor they never learned to use stage monitors. The last track here, a "bonus interview", is a distorted ten-minute phone conversation with Peters for which clearly neither party has prepared, and I'm not entirely sure that Peters even knows he's being recorded. In their hurry to take advantage of their only asset, now that live broadcasts are no longer novel, the people at King Biscuit have missed the fact that although their radio show was significant, its significance was not the archival value of its broadcasts, but rather their timeliness.
What bails them out, however (and you could claim that they know what they're doing, but I don't see any evidence to that effect), at least in this instance, is that the Alarm, in Boston for a rare headlining appearance on an unknown December night, 1981, transcend themselves. They seem to be in control of their direction in only the loosest conceptual sense; Twist's drumming is reasonably decisive, but the other three musicians stick to their parts with all the graceful aplomb of derailed subway cars, careening through chord-changes in the hope that if they move fast enough, any mistakes they make will recede into the past too rapidly to register. King Biscuit's no-overhead dumping of the tape onto CD turns out to be the best possible thing they could have done with it. By sitting still and keeping the microphones pointing in the correct direction, some uncredited attendant captured the band's breathless intensity an order of magnitude more vividly than any of the albums they made themselves. Their one official live record, the half-hearted Electric Folklore Live, may as well be of someone else. The Alarm, the real Alarm, were grand masters of ragged, anthemic catharsis, and in concert, with eyes to make contact with, and heartbeats with which to beat in sympathy, they came alive in a way that the studio experience could almost inevitably never recreate. Over time, in fact, it seems to me that instead of learning how to impose their will on the studio, the Alarm just became progressively more confused by it, assured by too many producers that this bizarre, polished, impersonal quartet on the records was their true selves, and eventually, their faith in themselves sapped to the point of collapse, they were reduced to attempting to oblige the illusion, to become the strangers they saw in their own publicity photos. I saw them for the last time in the same club where this show was recorded, almost exactly a decade later, on tour for the blunt, lifeless Raw, desperately trying to recall their old selves, and failing. But for one night in 1981, all that is far in the future. Declaration, their first full album, is still in the future. Learning to play their instruments properly is, arguably, still in the future. Except for the absent "Lie of the Land" (available in similarly unhinged live form on the 1998 reissue EP Save it for Later), they play about every song they know, "Marching On" twice, even "Reason 41", "Up for Murder" and "Unsafe Building" making their way into the set list, and by the end they may be out of blood, not just material. "The Alarm offered listeners something to believe in", the liner notes dryly assert, but I don't think that's what the Alarm did at all. I think what they gave away, for the most part, were anthems whose defining genius was that they came with no ideologies of their own, and thus could be applied to any sufficiently passionate conviction for which the listener wanted a soundtrack. And this noisy hour, more than half my life ago, the conviction given voice is, recursively, heartrendingly, upliftingly, immortally, the very idea that music can be the language in which we declare our selves

Here is (sorry for the delay!) the 2nd part of Mike's italian tour report.
After the 2 great gigs in Mantova and Turin, Mike and Jules headed south, direction Rome.
Again, like Turin, Mike hadn't played in Rome since the Change Tour in 1990. The Alarm also played there in 1996, during the Strength Tour. And both shows were phenomenal.
The show was advertised on various music mags, gig of the day on www.rockol.it one of most important online music magazine and was going to be filmed for a Real Video broadcasting on another big music website http://www.kwmusica.kataweb.it/
All the expectations were fulfilled as the Big Mama was packed like a chocolate box.
2 Sets again: the first of solo songs, the second of Alarm numbers. An incredible success.
Lucky Numbers was the only song from Flesh and Blood to be played during the italian tour. Loads of encore later the show was over and the "romans" sung their hearts out.
Also the MPO stall was literally assaulted and sold out everything!
Another day, another gig. The last of this tour, at the "Calamita". Back north, not far from Bologna. In a town called Cavriago. People arrived quickly and again, when Mike reached the stage, the venue was completely packed. Mike played a superb concert, a very mixed set, took some requests and closed with an electryfying Rocking in The free World with the crowd going as if it was a full electric band playing in front of them.
A local TV also filmed part of the gig and interviewed Mike.
A fantastic time was had by all: loads of pizza, loads of pasta, cocktails, saying "cazzo!!!" a lot, and the uplifting feeling that this tour has been Mike's best over here. This was Italy, January 2000. And Mike next time will be back sooner than 10 years!

-Lorenzo

World-class Engineer and Procuder Jim Scott will start re-mixing the Coloursound album tomorrow. He will be mxing 4 songs that have been chosen for singles from the album. The exact songs are still secret, but rumor has it that Scott has taken a fondness to "Alive".

Here is a list of Jim Scott career highlights:


Tom Petty, "Wild Flowers" Engineer (Grammy Winner)
Red Hot Chili Peppers "Californication", Engineer (Grammy Nominee)
The Rolling Stones "Bridges To Babylon", co-Engineer
Danzig "Danzig IV", Engineer
Whiskeytown " Strangers Almanac" , Producer, Engineer
Matthew Sweet "In Reverse", Engineer
James Iha(Smashing Pumpkins) "Let It Come Down", Producer, Engineer
The Connells "Still Life", Producer, Engineer
Ugly Americans "Ugly Americans", Producer, Engineer
The BoDeans "Home", Producer
Sting "The Dream Of The Blue Turtles", co-Engineer
Reef "Glow", Co-Engineer
Tom Jones "Move Closer", co-Engineer
Carlos Santana "Blues For Salvador" co-Engineer
Screaming Trees "Dust", co-Engineer
Roy Orbison "King Of Hearts", co-Engineer
Robbie Robertson "Robbie Robertson", Engineer

Mike Peters and Flesh and Blood on BBC Digital Choice - March 1st
Tune in to BBC Digital Choice to see the making of 'Flesh and Blood'. If you have access to Sky Digital, then you can watch this programme from all over the country. Duration is 30 minutes and exact transmission time  is 2320-2350 hrs on BBC Digital Choice on March 1st.
 

Just a quick rumor update. It seems that a rumor is going around that Mike Peters and Billy Duffy will be meeting next week in Los angels to discuss the Coloursound USA release. There is also a rumor that studio time has been booked...

hmm... interesting...

Big Country Tour 2000
Mike Peters appears as Special Guest to Big Country in Germany
Mike Peters appears as Special Guest to Big Country through the month of April. Dates are as follows.

MIKE PETERS TOUR OF GERMANY - 2000.

2ND APRIL - KREEFELD, KULTURFABRIK

3rdAPRIL - HANOVER, CAPITOL

5TH APRIL - BERLIN , KESSELHOUS

6TH APRIL - LEIPZIG , ANKER

7TH APRIL - BIELEFELD , ELFENHEIN

8TH APRIL - OLDENBURG , KULTUREAGE

10TH APRIL - HAMBURG , FABNK

11TH APRIL - COLOGNE , PRIME CLUB

12TH APRIL - KOBLENZ , SUPPKULTUR

14TH APRIL - KARLSRUHE , SUBSTAGE

15TH APRIL - FREIBURG , JAZZHAUS

16TH APRIL - MUNICH , METROPOLIS

17TH APRIL - NUREMBERG , HIRSCH

Mike Peters Webcast in Itay
You can see Mike Peters' Rome performance from January 2000 at the following address:
http://www.kwmusica.kataweb.it/
Go in the webcast section and... enjoy!

Latest Flesh and Blood News

Flesh and Blood has been made 'Album of the Week by BBC Wales with a featured one hour radio documentary all about 'Flesh and Blood. Please call BBC on 01222 322000 to make your request for tracks from the 'Flesh and Blood' album. The film documentary, The making of Flesh and Blood will be broadcast on BBC Digital Choice. Please keep in touch for actual transmission date.

Mike Peters Birthday Concert on Friday Feb 25th

Mike Peters birthday concert on Friday February 25th is pretty close to being a sellout. This is your chance to see the play, 'Flesh and Blood', followed by a very special Mike Peters concert in the Sherman theatre. As it's Mike Peters birthday, Mike will finish up the concert in the Sherman Theatre Bar at a special Aftershow Birthday Drinks Party. MPO has obtained an extended license until midnight and all ticketjolders to Mike's show are invited. See you there. Tickets are priced at £5. Please call 01222 646900 to check for last minute availability or returns.

Directions to the Sherman Theatre 01222 646900. Follow Cardiff University signs. The theatre is located at Senghennydd Road, Cardiff CF24 4YE

Alarm 2000

The Alarm 2000 collection is available to order now at a price of £99.99 plus £3 p&p/$168 plus p&p Please stay in touch for news of Alarm 2000 Day where you can opt for the choice to collect your Alarm 2000 collection in person. Remember to contact MPO direct if you wish to discuss your own personal payment stucture.