Mike Peters and all the staff at M.P.O. (Alarm Information Service) in
Wales would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your
wonderful support during 2002. It has been an extremely busy year, what
with The Gathering, The Resistance Tour, the San Siro/Olimpico concerts
in Milan and Rome and more recently the outpourings of 'In the Poppy
Fields', Release 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, all in a period of 5/6 months!!!!!

In the last week, Mike has played in Amsterdam with Big Country, in
Milan, at the press launch of 'In the Poppy Fields' and last night,
closer to home, in the Village Hall of Dyserth where Mike played a
special homecoming concert to raise money for the Village Hall,
organised by wife Jules, a local Community Councillor and Committee
Member of Dyserth Hall.

Mike is looking forward to a well earned break for the first time in
months although rumours suggest this will be short-lived as he will be
back in the studio after Boxing Day to record brand new 'b' sides for
an upcoming single! (Mike premiered the new video of the single at his
hometown concert!)

Mike was very saddened to hear the news of the death of Joe Strummer
and at last night's concert in his home village, dedicated an emotional
version of 'The Rock'n Roll' to Joe, one of Mike's heros...

...Mike is looking forward to meeting up with many of you at the
ultimate rock'n roll party, The Gathering in January and on the road
during the 'In the Poppy Fields' Tour 2003. Dates to be announced
following on from the UK include Slovenia, Italy, Germany, Holland, and
Dubai! It is also hoped that a long overdue return to the USA will take
place in 2003 - apologies to all Americans - there just didn't seem to
be the time to fit it all in 2002!!!

So thanks again for being the greatest fans in the world. Your loyalty
is appreciated every day. Take care over the 'Holidays', enjoy
immersing yourself 'In the Poppy Fields' experience and we look forward
to kicking off 2003 in style with the greatest rock'n roll party ever
in Wales!!!!

Love and life,

M.P.O.(Alarm Information Service)
Wales, UK

To all ticket purchasers for QMU in Glasgow on 1/02/02 please note that
due to the success of ticket sales, the venue has been moved up to:

The Garage
490 Sauchiehall Street,
Glasgow

Tickets will be posted out in the New Year.

Thanks for your support!

MPO

Urgent!

Can all the following people who have recently ordered from the Alarm
store please contact MPO asap:
011 44 1745 571571
mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

Duncan Jardine
W. Addis
Paul Evans
Moira Anderson
John Silberlich
S. Southern
Keith Bailey
Stuart Collins
Deb Mattison
Denise Taylor
Haydn Powell
Robert Baker
Sarah Lloyd
Christian Verzeletti
Shaun Donnelly
Neil Shevill
Simon Aston
James Southall
Meghan O'Brien
Neil Stammers

Thank You
M.P.O.
The Alarm Store

Two new songs from "In The Poppy Fields" Release #3 have been added to 21stcenturyradio.tv.

"Trafficking" and "Be Still" can now be heard in regular rotation.

tURN sOMEONE yOU kNOW oN TO tHE mUSIC oF mIKE pETERS aND tHE aLARM
[and receive a free Italian ‘promotional only’ Alarm CD featuring
‘Close’ plus 20 classic Alarm singles]. Buy a second ‘In the Poppy Fields Bond’ as a gift or introduce someone new to the Bond or an Alarm Box set Collection
and receive a free ‘promotional only’ Alarm CD. [ Call 01745 571571 for details. To qualify, any new person ordering must give a name and address of the existing MPO member].

Thanks for all your support regarding 'In the Poppy Fields' bond and
for your amazing response to:
[21C025] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : oNE - cLOSE
[21C026] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : tWO - tHE nORMAL rULES dO nOT aPPLY


DISPATCH OF....
[21C027] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : tHREE - tRAFFICKING
[21C028] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : fOUR a mUSICAL cREATION rECORDED
eXCLUSIVELY fOR bOND hOLDERS

Release Three has been held back to send out with Release Four (which
is turning out to be an incredible CD). What started out as the mystery
CD is now the ultimate 'must have' CD of the 'In the Poppy Fields'
Bond. We would like to tell you more but have been sworn to secrecy by
Mr. Michael Peters! All will be revealed later this month as both CD's
will be dispatched to all bondolders approximately December 17th.
Thanks for your patience. We think you will agree that it will be worth
the wait! To get you in the mood please scroll down for an entire
tracklisting.....

[21C025] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : oNE

cLOSE
aLONE tOGETHER
iN tHE bEAUTY oF mY sURROUNDINGS
rIGHT bACK wHERE I sTARTED fROM
tHE rOCK aND rOLL
cONTENDERS
aLL sEEING
tHE LIFE yOU sEEK dOES nOT eXIST
wITH fRIENDS LIKE yOU wHO nEEDS eNEMIES
sWANSONG

[21C026] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : tWO

tHE nORMAL rULES dO nOT aPPLY
nEW hOME nEW lIFE
rAIN dOWN
wHEN yOU cAN’t hAVE wHAT eVERYBODY eLSE hAS
hOW LONG aND hOW mUCH LONGER?
45 rPM
eVERAFTER
I nEVER lEFT I oNLY wENT aWAY
mY dEFENCES
tHE uNEXPLAINED

[21C027] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : tHREE

tRAFFICKING
fEDERAL mOTOR vOTER
rESURRECTION
tHE sEARCH fOR tHE rEAL LIFE
wHEN eVERYTHING wAS pERFECT
tHE dRUNK aND tHE dISORDERLY
bE sTILL
iT hAPPENS
tERMS aND cONDITIONS
pEACE aGREEMENT

[21C028] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : fOUR

a mUSICAL cREATION
rECORDED eXCLUSIVELY fOR bOND hOLDERS

[21C029] iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS : fIVE

cOMING hOME
tHE iNNOCENT pARTY
kALEIDOSCOPE
fESTIVAL oF LIGHT
fREE iNSIDE
tRUE lIFE
fEW aND fAR bETWEEN
tHE nORMAL rULES dO nOT aPPLY
tRAFFICKING
cLOSE
iN tHE pOPPY fIELDS

Ex-Alarm bassist, guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Eddie Macdonald is going to auction off some of his clsssic Alarm guitars on
eBay starting December 5th, 2002!

The exact URLs are linked below. Below is an interview conducted today with Eddie, as well as detailed descriptions and photos of the items he is putting up for sale.

Bring us up to date on Eddie MacDonald. What has the past 10 years been like for you?

Well, there's been a lot of ups, a few downs and a few in betweens and
a few things I'd rather forget about altogether, but all in all, I'm in good
health, good shape mentally and physically and am enjoying life. As a few
people are now aware, I've changed direction in life and taken up
photography. I still love music but very rarely get to play nowadays but
that's not saying I won't ever play again - far from it. I'm still living in
London and am happy here. The one thing I do miss is visiting different
countries. I don't get to travel as much as I'd like but we'll see what the
next couple of years brings.

Is there any music in your future?

I suppose the sale of guitars would indicate no. But I've kept hold of my two
main writing guitars - my Gibson J45 and my Status bass so I'm still armed
and ready and could go off at anytime! I've written quite a few songs since
the last show in Brixton with a few different artists but I haven't found the
right vehicle for them as yet. But Alarm fans, don't worry! I'm not going to
help Gary Barlow/Gareth Gates have hits.

What prompted the eBay auction?

Feng Shui! I thought it was time to give the guitars a better home! I thought
someone else could make better music with them than I can having them sitting
under the stairs! Sometimes it's good to let go of certain things. They
brought me a lot of luck, maybe they will bring someone else the same. I
would like to think they would end up in someone's house rather than a Hard
Rock cafe!

Just seeing those instruments prompted an nostalgia-drenched, emotional
response from me that I did not anticipate. Were you gripped with nostalgia
when you started this process, or are you past that stage?

Not really no. I think it was more nostalgic when Mike was putting together
The Alarm Box Set. He sent me through a great deal of searching questions,
some of which I found very very difficult to answer, in other words, they
brought a smile to my face. To answer it fully, I would say that when you
haven't played a guitar for quite a few years, I felt a bit guilty.

What are your expectations from this auction? Monetary, satisfaction, closure, or all or none of these things?

It would be fair and honest to say a mixture of all three. The guitars are a
fine tool in their own right and the fact that they are sentimental would
probably mean more to fans of the band and myself than any outside collector.
Saying that though, the guitars are very collectable.

When will the eBay auction start?

It goes up Thursday night UK time and if I'm right, finishes on Saturday 14th
December. But I will confirm this and also send you a locator for eBay.

Is there anything you'd like to say to Alarm fans who are still "keepin the flames alive"? (besides "Get a life!!)

I'd put it in a football analogy. If you follow a team you have to follow the
through thick and thin and that's what makes it special - the bad times count
as well as the good ones. It creates a perfect picture - you have to have
light and shade in anything to make it special. I'm always glad to say that
at least all of us are in good health, all reasonably sane, and still around
to tell the tales. There aren't many bands that can say the same. And
finally, thank you to all the fans for keeping our feet firmly on the ground
by not buying enough singles and not putting us in the top ten!!! Only
kidding! Correct me if I'm wrong but in the UK terms The Alarm still has the
record for having the most Top 40 singles without having a Top 10 single. I'd
like to sign off by thanking everyone for emailing me. If I don't speak to
you again, have a great Christmas and enjoy The Gathering in the new year!

All the best

Eddie

(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm (Eddie Macdonald) 1964 Guild Starfire For auction a 1964 Guild Starfire semi-acoustic electric guitar -of interest to The Alarm aficionados and guitar and rock memorabilia collectors. Fans of the The Alarm will remember this guitar, held by Dave Sharp, on the cover of the ‘68 Guns’ 7" & 12" singles. The guitar was the instrument on which most of the music for the albums Declaration and Strength was written and was used on the songs Howling Wind, Third Light and Tell Me (Declaration) It was re-sprayed and meticulously restored by Guild in 1985 after the War Tour with U2. The Starfire comes with its original case and documents of authenticity and can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm (Eddie Macdonald) Squire Telecaster (Japan) For auction a 1980s Squire (Fender) Telecaster solid electric guitar-of interest to The Alarm aficionados and guitar and rock memorabilia collectors. This guitar, played by Eddie Macdonald of The Alarm, is a much sought after Japanese made Squire. The guitar was used extensively during the Change and Raw albums and toured on The Electric Folklore & Change tours and also on tours with Bob Dylan and Queen. The guitar is in good playing order but, having been toured long and hard, bares a few scars (the plastic toggle switch cover is missing.) Comes with gig bag and strap. The guitar can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm (Eddie Macdonald) Fender Jazz Bass Special For auction a 1980s Fender (USA) Jazz Bass Special electric bass guitar -of interest to The Alarm aficionados and guitar and rock memorabilia collectors. The Fender Jazz Bass Special was used for recording throughout the eighties on LP’s such as Strength, Electric Folklore, Change and Raw and was used on the accompanying tours. It can be viewed on The Alarm web site (http://www.thealarm.com/) in many pictures including the inside cover of the album Electric Folklore Live. The Fender Jazz Bass Special has a Jazz width neck, a P bass pick-up in the middle position and a J bass pick-up at the bridge. Sold with the original aluminium flight case. This guitar can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm (Eddie Macdonald) Ovation Preacher 12 String For auction an Ovation Preacher 12 string solid electric guitar -of interest to The Alarm aficionados and guitar and rock memorabilia collectors. This rare guitar from Eddie Macdonald’s The Alarm collection dates from the early seventies and comes in the original and rare natural finish. The versatile controls make it a great live and recording guitar. Often used on over-dubs to fatten acoustic and lead lines, this guitar has not been toured and comes with original Ovation case. This guitar can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm (Eddie Macdonald) 1980’s Guild Starfire 4 For auction a 1980’s Guild Starfire 4 semi-acoustic electric guitar -of interest to The Alarm aficionados and guitar and rock memorabilia collectors. This guitar was custom made especially for Eddie Macdonald of The Alarm by Guild USA and was used on all live work and albums from 1985 onwards. The guitar is finished in black with a Kahler floating tremelo bridge. The pick-ups are a Gibson humbucker at the bridge and a Di Marzio humbucker at the neck. Also included are two, unused, original Guild pick-ups. Comes with its original touring case (see image.) and can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm T Shirts (Eddie Macdonald) Set #1 All these T-Shirts were worn on stage for encores by Eddie Macdonald of The Alarm. Consisting of five T-Shirts from the Chant Has Just Begun period “Old but Gold” Can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm T Shirts (Eddie Macdonald) Set #2 All these T-Shirts were worn on stage for encores by Eddie Macdonald of The Alarm. Rare collectors pack consisting of a 2 Nike sponsored band only shirts plus 2 early declaration shirts and one Change tour shirt. Can be autographed on request.
(click for larger image)	Ex The Alarm T Shirts (Eddie Macdonald) Set #3 All these T-Shirts were worn on stage for encores by Eddie Macdonald of The Alarm. Three early shirts plus one hand made calligraphy shirt. Can be autographed on request.

2 BRAND NEW ITEMS AVAILABLE TO ORDER FOR CHRISTMAS

[21CDVD002]
THE STORY OF THE ALARM 2 DVD SET
Double DVD as told by Mike Peters at Rhyl Town Hall during the legendary 20th
anniversary concert. Over 3 hours of footage including all the major songs
and a host of photos and archive video footage and special features.

[Multi Region DVD Playable anywhere in the world]
UK £29.99 plus £1 p&p US $45 & $5 p&p
buy now!

[ARCC002]
ALARM RECORD COLLECTORS CLUB II
‘The Alarm live at Hammersmith Palais 1984’.
Following on from the successful release of ‘Alt-Strength’
Originally recorded for the BBC this concert captures The Alarm live
during the ‘Sound and Fury’ UK tour of 1984.

UK £14.99 inc.£1 p&p US $20 & $5 p&p
buy now!

Mike has been impressing Bob Geldof fans on his current UK outings this
week, so much so that Geldof fans are calling MPO HQ in droves to sign
up for 'In the Poppy Fields' subscription and next year's tour dates
after been impressed by hearing the new songs. Even Sir Bob himself
has been intrigued by the idea of Mike recording 50 songs and took away
Vol 1 (Close) and 2 (The Normal Rules Do Not Apply) himself last night
after Mike received a rousing reception at Reading Town Hall. Mike
premiered all new 'In the Poppy Fields' songs with the closing addition
of 'Rain in the Summertime'. Mike Peters will be appearing tonight
(Thurs Nov 28) in Salisbury and Tues Dec 3 at Newcastle Opera House...

In the Poppy Fields....MP

STOP PRESS **** LATE BREAKING NEWS ****STOP PRESS **** LATE BREAKING
NEWS

This year, The Gathering will feature a very special guest appearance from Dave Sharp who will perform an acoustic set on Friday evening before joining the band live onstage during the Saturday night. Unfortunately, G11 officially ‘sold out’ over 3 months in advance leaving many long standing fans unable to purchase tickets which are also selling as fast for the ‘In The Poppy Fields’ UK Tour. In an effort to avoid further disappointment members are urged to purchase their tour tickets a.s.a.p. Please call 01745 571571 for further details or to be added to the G11 ‘return’ waiting list.

What talent - this again has exceeded all expectations and there is more to
follow !! Long may this continue. I'll be bringing one old Alarm fan along to GXI
with me for the first time so he can witness all this for himself
Paul Doughty - Blackpool

Cheers for "close" - excellent!!! How about adding a Newcastle date to the tour next year?
Jim Fothergill, Newcastle

Mike's spirit is rocking as stong as ever! Absolutely brilliant album.
And to think 4 more are coming--can't hardly wait. Come to the USA and
play them live! Todd, San Francisco, USA

What can you say! The first CD is a blinder and I can't wait for the 2nd
installment. Have really got back into the Alarm/MP in the past couple of
years. The Resistance tour was fantastic, hats off to you guys for keeping
it real and not ripping your fans off!! Get the Close single out there.
Get Mike on TOTP's and give the world what it has been missing.
The rock and roll still burns in us... Adrian Bent, UK

There is only one cd at the moment in my home and in my car and that’s Close.
Close is one of the best songs you’ve ever wrote. (and the shortest I think).
Other favorites are Contenders and All seeing.
Emiel van Dijk, Holland

Just read the "feedback" and its all correct and accurate.
This is a great album and I cant believe there is more to come.
After in the poppyfields day I can assure those that werent lucky enough to
be there to listen out for "the normal rules do not apply" and "in the
poppyfields" which are definately destined to become legendary.

Big congratulations to all the MPO team. Keep it coming.
Ash, Warrington

I cannot wait for the next Poppyfields CD to come out, the Close CD is the best set of songs Mike has ever recorded
Tim Grosvenor, England

I've only given it the one play so far and I can say that I am looking
forward to 45rpm at the Gathering........ Close your eyes and it's 1977
again!! Fantastic... Denis Jones, Crewe

I got the first CD and have been loving it!! I can't wait for more.
Thanks again,
Glenn P, Oxford, OH, USA

Brilliant... can't wait for the next Poppy Field...
Steve nyc

Just got Vol 2 this morning......it fecking ROCKS!!!!!..In an age of
maufactured pop idol rubbish its good to know that Mr Peters is producing
the best music of his life.....
Justin Davies, Wales

The cd's just get better, 45 rpm, great punk sound, and how long iis a classic.
All the best, Neil Rhodes.. UK

Brilliant,moving...made this side of ireland that little bit happier!!
Doug, Sligo, Ireland

WELL DONE MIKE+THE LADS
YOU HAVE ONCE AGAIN RESTORED SOME PRIDE+PASSION
IN YOUR LYRICS,MAY IT LONG CONTINUE
AGAINST ALL COMMERCIAL CLAP-TRAP AND BANALITY
GOD BLESS, JOHN GLASGOW

Great CD, this sounds like the real "The Alarm"! Great songs, great lyrics
and please give me more...
Thanks Martin Flemming, Germany

Following on from Mike Peters' successful Italian concerts in 2002, Mike returns to Italy for a special presentation of 'In the Poppy Fields'. Details as follows"
Dec 17th December, Milano
"La Casa 139"
"Quadrophonic Sound In the Poppy Fields presentation"
"La Casa 139"
Via Ripamonti 139
20141 Milano
www.lacasa139.com
info@lacasa139.com

Mike Peters and wife Jules take time out from 'In the Poppy Fields
Bond' for a whole different Bond experience - at the James Bond
premiere, 'Die Another Day' this week at the Royal Albert Hall, London.
Mike, an avid James Bond fan joined celebrities Madonna, Pierce
Brosnan, Halle Berry, Roger Moore, the Queen... for one of 20th Century
Fox' s most glittering film premieres to date!

Mike Peters made a surprise guest appearance last night (Fri) to Sir
Bob Geldof at Sheffield City Hall. Mike took the opportunity to 'test'
his new songs from 'In the Poppy Fields' which went down a storm with
the Geldof fans. Set list as follows:

alone together.
free inside
rain down
the normal rules do not apply
true life
the life you seek does not exist
in the beauty of my surroundings
close

Mike Peters will be appearing as Special Guest to Bob Geldof in the UK
over the next 10 days. Dates are as follows:

Nov 24 York Opera House 01904 671818
Nov 25 Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall 01902 552121
Nov 27 Reading Town Hall 0118 9606060
Nov 28 Salisbury City Hall 01722 327676
Dec 3 Newcastle Opera House 01722 327676

Mike Peters will be appearing lIVE in ZAANDAM, Netherlands on December 14 2002
Mike will be performing together with 3 bandmembers of BIG COUNTRY during
a 5 hour event from 6 pm until 11 pm
For more info please go to
http://www.bigcountry.co.uk and look under news.

Two brand spanking new songs from "In The Poppy Fields" release #2 have been added to 21stcenturyradio.tv (and soon to The Alarm Radio Network). Go there now to hear "The Normal Rules Do Not Apply" and "45 RPM"!

The national US airdate for the documentary Nigel is in, Presumed Guilty
isWednesday, Oct. 23rd (though people should check local listings for their
PBS station).

More info at
http://www.kqed.org/tv/productions/baywindow/presumedguilty

Thanks once again for a brilliant album.If I wrote for Q I'd give it ***** Colin R, Denbigh

"Rock and roll" could be the new "spirit"- made the hair on my neck stand up on end- a timeless classic.
Darran, Lincolnshire.

I would just like 2 say that I absolutely adore the CD... it sounds totally fantastic :o) The tunes have stuck firmly in my head.
Roll on Gathering 11. Pete C, England

Really love 'In The Poppy Fields : One'. If the new tracks are anything to go by then I can't wait for Poppy Fields Day. Forget U2. Forget Springsteen. This is the real deal. Kevin D, Manchester

Mike's done it again another great set of recordings hasn't been of my stereo all weekend, Damian W, London

I read on the website that Mike wrote Sixty+ tracks for these Poppyfields sessions. I counted all the songs I've written in my life (I'm 32 now) and the total is 67...Mike has written as many for his new album as I have in my lifetime! I am in awe of his creativity...Great job Mike. You just never let us fans down. Keep it up mate, Brian T, California

The 'Close' album is absolutely cracking. I'm listening to it continuously in my car, Sara J, N. Wales

Rhythm, good melodies, fantastic atmospheres, great arrangements. This is really the unique sound of THE ALARM, Stefano, Italy

What a great sounding release!!!!! I got it today, and have now played it through 17 times!!!!!!This was really worth the wait!!!!! -John B, New Hampshire, USA

Just received and played volume 1 of ITPF .... fantasic to hear some new stuff from Mike. Great songs, poignant lyrics... altogther great ..... "Rock'n' Roll" and "Right Back Where we started" are haunting sounds ... memories of the Alarm at their best. Can't wait for the live dates ...and the small matter of four more albums. True class from a musical hero.Well done... and thanks !!!! Chris Houlden, UK

I'm surprised at the quality of all ten tracks on the single - they are all very good and there isn't a filler among them. If Mike can keep this level of quality up for the whole of the In the Poppy Fields release then I think he would have actually achieved the impossible, Ruth H, UK

Just received my copy of "In The Poppy Fields" today and got to say I love it…If this is any indication of what the final CD is going to sound like, it is going to be an excellent CD. Keep up the excellent work Mike and the rest of the guys. Tim Adams, USA

GREAT CD WHICH IS HELPING ME THROUGH A VERY SAD TIME. IM FINDING MEANING IN EACH AHD EVERY SONG. THANKS, YOURS DEAN SMITH, NORFOLK

Close to F****** brilliant. Thanks a lot, C Downs, UK

IN THE POPPYFIELDS ONE IS ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! A REAL INJECTION OF LIFE!! Marco, Italy

I have now had a chance to listen to all the songs on the new release and all 10 are great songs, J Thompson, England

Received vol. 1. played it over & over.LOVE IT!! Bring on vol.2. Andy Fountain, UK

I've been playing it more or less non-stop for the past week - it's mature and inteligent songwriting at it's best. - these are very exciting times indeed, Peter B, UK

Just listened to the CD for the 3rd time and it's brilliant!! A lot of personalisation within the tracks and some borrowed lyrics from early Alarm which adds to the whole euphoria. All the best, Dave McGachy, Aberdeen

Great songs! "all seeing" & "the life you seek..." among my favourite ones. The songs sound fresh & powerful. Congratulations to the "chef". Can't wait to listen to the rest of the whole album. Jordi R, Barcelona

I got the new CD last week, and I have to say it's absolutely brilliant!! Please pass on a big "well done" to everyone involved from me, G Harrison, Wales

CD arrived thgis morning so not yet played it all (listened to 8 tracks in the car). Absolutely brilliant on 1st listen - classic Alarm but still "new and different". Can't wait for the next 4 instalments! S Talbot, UK

Thanks for being so quick in distributing the first album of the In The Poppy Fields collection. I only ordered on Wednesday - and here by Friday !!! I must say it sounds brilliant - Mike sounds great !!! Stuart Gibson, UK

Just a few words to thank you for the wonderful music you create ! I received today in my mailbox In the Poppy fields one : Symply awesome ! Best wishes, Roger from Switzerland

Its not very often you receive an album which you can say that every track is brilliant right from the title track CLOSE to the last track SWANSONG - every track individual in its own right.How does Mike do it ? The talent in being able to write such influential songs with such meaning and strength... I guess its because he really beleives in what he is writing and singing about... Thank you Mike that "The Rock And Roll " still burns in you. you are such an inspiration to many people especially your fans and all that come in contact with you .Thank you for "in the poppyfields1" Trevor Finnis, England

Listening again and again to the CD and if Vol 2 is only half as good it will be worth the wait (is "wait" the right phrase when vol 2 will be here later this month!) , track after track brilliant.....The Rock N Roll... Grahame Bennett, UK

The CD arrived yesterday.... What a start in the weekend. Its a great CD and I can´t wait to get more, and see you all at G11.
Cheers Martin Flemming, Germany

One day all "singles" will be made this way...........What started out life as "Close" the single has developed into a full blown MP album of the highest order. There's not a weak track on the CD, Rumour has it that the best is yet to come.....In The Poppyfields II is to be even better.....can't wait! John Dawson Booth, West Yorkshire

Just received my copy. Another great album by Mike and Alarm 2002! My initial favorite songs are Close and Swan Song.I am listening to the album constantly. I look forward to the next four releases! I hope Mike tours the US in 2003! Thanks, Paul Manning, USA

The CD is really high quality, and if the fan base has to choose tracks from it and the others for an official
release, it is going to be one difficult job! Thanks to all involved and best wishes
Mark G (the one in Spain)

First of all thanks for the new Close CD. I really think that every track is excellent - its difficult to pick out a favourite track or indeed a weak track. If this was Mikes first solo release or Alarm release since '91 I would be more then happy with it as an album - the fact that there is more to come is an unbelieveable bonus. I think you have set a standard here Mike, that will
be difficult to follow up - but no doubt you will prove us all wrong and come up with more top notch releases. This is indeed your two steps forward, Colin Busher, Ireland

is it me or are mike peters songs getting better & better i have been listening to close for the last week & its just blown me away hope you can get a newcastle date in the new year, Mick A, Northeast, UK

CD has arrived and been on permanent play for 24 hours! Can't wait for the next
installment....when's it due?!?! Will Ellis, England

Just a note to say it landed on Saturday, Just Brilliant hasn't been off since, not one bad track, the Man is just out of this world to keep producing music like this. Many Thanks Damian Corrgian, Co Tyrone

First impressions - what a breath of fresh air, it was fantastic to hear new music that Mike has produced that will keep the flame burning for many years to come. Any fears that quality would be sacrificed for quantity were immediately dispelled, the songs captured the indefinable spirit that is Mike Peters and in 40+ minutes gave a passionate reminder why the last 10 years or so following Mr P have been so rewarding, Ian Martin, UK

If you would like to email your thoughts regarding the In the Poppy Fields Bond to be included in our Feedback section, please email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk

The Unforgettable In the Poppy Fields Experience... 19th October 2002

Thanks to all who travelled far and wide to celebrate In the Poppy
Fields Day in Wales this weekend. The sold out occasion saw Alarm fans
traveling from Sweden, Germany as well as Michigan and Wyoming in the
USA.

The impressive 3 story Country Mansion situated just outside Rhyl (home
of The Alarm) was taken over by Alarm fans for the day. Site of
previous years' Coloursound Day and Alarm Day, this location has become
a popular 'mid' year intimate alternative to the fast growing Gathering
concert, held in Llandudno every January (SOLD OUT).

Once again, Mike Peters and his team stretched the creative boundaries
with an impressive presentation of the new album, complete with
quadrophonic sound and slide show. Mike 'talked' through the recording
process of the final release (5) as well as featuring highlights from
the already much loved Release 1 'Close' from 'In the Poppy Fields'
bond. His 'talk' was peppered with dramatic deliveries of 'In the Poppy
Fields' songs, accompanied by an informative slide show of documented
photographs from Mike's personal collection. Sound Engineers, Martin
Wilding and Mike Jones worked tirelessly throughout the day, mixing the
backing tracks 'live' of the album as Mike sang along and played guitar
(acoustic and electric)

To finish, Mike was joined by fellow guitarist and friend James
Stevenson who executed a stirring solo on the unforgettable Swansong,
featured on Release 1 much to the delight of the assembled audience
(James received a roar of approval half way through the song!) A
fitting finale to an unforgettable afternoon....

Tracklisting for 'In the Poppy Fields' Day (Afternoon Session) as
follows:

Trafficking
Kaleidescope
The Normal Rules Do Not Apply
Festival of Light
Innocent Party
Close (accompanied by Close slide show from the recent San Siro Stadium
Concert in Milan)
Contenders
In the Beauty of My Surroundings
Right Back Where I Started From
The Life You Seek Does Not Exist
The Rock'n Roll
How Long
Swan Song

The afternoon session was a difficult act to follow but 'OrchestrAlarm'
did just that. Mike was joined by a six piece string section on stage
and the Alarm songs were performed as if for the very first time. The
final rendition of 'Spirit of 76' brought the house down and led
sweetly in to the aftershow party, held on the top haunted floor of the
Country House where Mike mingled with his guests into the small hours.
A 12 hour extravaganza not to be missed!

Following on from the SOLD OUT 'In the Poppy Fields' please note The
Gathering is SOLD OUT for next year Jan 24/25, 2003. Please contact MPO
with your name and daytime tel number/email if you wish to be added
to the Gathering Waiting List.

Mike Peters is currently performing 3 special concerts in Italy
following on from the continued success this year.

Release 2 of In the Poppy Fields Bond is scheduled to be dispatched
from MPO on the last day of October. The In the Poppy Fields Bond is
available to order now at a price of £45 plus £5 p and p (see I.T.
P.F.B section for dollar/euro price). The bond contains 5 individual
albums to be delivered to you monthly between now and The Gathering.

Any queries, please call MPO on 011 44 (0)1745 571571 or email
mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk

Following on from the success of this year's Gathering and subsequent
tours, MPO is proud to announce that The Gathering 11 is SOLD OUT,
taking place on the 24/25 Jan 2003. The MPO office continues to grow at
an incredible pace with new Alarm fans registering on a daily basis.
Consequently, many new Alarm/Mike Peters fans are attending the
Gathering for the very first time.This year, people are attending from
all over the UK, Japan, Australia, Holland, Germany, USA, Canada,
Norway, Switzerland, Spain and Italy. As the review of this year's
Gathering 10 summed up...

"It was 12.10am, Mike Peters and The Alarm MMII had been on stage for
almost three hours. It was all over except that you felt like it was
just beginning..... and in many ways maybe it was just the beginning."

NB. For those people still wanting tickets, please call the MPO office
on 011 44 (0)1745 571571 to be added to a Gathering Waiting List.
Thanks to all for your continued support.

Following on from a question & answer session which took place during the
early weeks of The Summer Of Love tour, as the second leg gets under way, as
promised at the time, Dave is going to take part in a second session.

Dave will be answering questions via the Dave Sharp discussion list, hosted by
Yahoogroups, during the week of 28th October to 3rd November. If you are not a
member of the discussion group, send e-mail to href=mailto:davesharp2000-subscribe@yahoogroups.com>davesharp2000-subscribe@ya
hoogroups.com or enter your e-mail address below & click the button.

Following on from the recent successful Italian outings this year, Mike Peters returns to Italy after the SOLD OUT 'In the Poppy Fields' Day, to be held in Wales on 19th October. Mike will present the new 'In the Poppy Fields' songs to his Italian fans. Dates are as follows:

23/10 Roma "Big Mama"
25/10 Udine-Buttrio "Balin"
26/10 Cavriago (RE) "Calamita" (to be joined by Marco Ligabue, Tavarre and friends)

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR KIND WORDS OF PRAISE FOR vol 1 of In the Poppy Fields. Mike sends his best wishes from the studio where he is busy writing and recording new songs. Over the coming months we will keep you updated with Alarm fans' musings on the new songs from all over the world.

FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...FEEDBACK...

Waited like an expectant dad for the postman to arrive - and I was not to be disappointed when i finally received my 1st In the Poppy Fields disc. Completely blown away by the new material! "Rock and roll" could be the new "spirit"- made the hair on my neck stand up on end- a timeless classic. "The life you seek" and "all seeing" are early favourites.
Cant wait to hear it all at "In the Poppy Fields Day" and at GXI.
Bring on Vol 2!!
Thanks Mike for keeping it fresh, real and alive!
Cracking photos by Jules!
Darran & Kate in Lincolnshire.

Classy Stuff MLP
Cheers
Deano The Inspired

Subject: new songs
What can i say.......2 great songs, can't wait to hear the album!!SUMMErRainRTIME

Contenders makes me even more curious what the new four "In the Poppy Field"
albums will bring. Great song! The Rock 'n'roll also sounds great. Will it
feature on a later release?
Anyway I hope the first album will arrive in my mailbox soon !
Greetings from Holland
Rob

dear mpo just listened to the two new songs on 21st century radio and two more masterpieces from the maestro.really starting to wet my appetite for the forthcoming releases can't wait.dave

I've been listening to 21c century
radio and Alarm radio network nearly all day and everyday! I have to say
Close and Contenders and The Rock and Roll are wicked tracks although I do
feel that Close has a very good radio sound to it and so does contenders
Billy duffy's guitars work very well with mikes voice as we all know anyways!

Keep up the good work mike although god knows how you manage to write so much
and create fantastic music over the years !

Well im sure by now after being an alarm fan and mike peters fan for almost
25 years now I love your music and you can do no wrong by me no matter what !
See you at the gathering this year I really cant wait

Love and Life
chris Puxley
p.s. cant wait to get my first edition of the BOnd


Just heard Contenders on 21st Century Radio. It definitely sounds like Mike is recording with a "band" again ...
Holy Shit! I'm listening to Rock and Roll right now and I am freaking out! What a track! "Six strings on a twelve guitar, all my dreams are made of stars..." Fucking Brilliant! "The faces change but the dreams the same..." All I can say is WOW! The references to Unbreak the Promise..."I tore it down to build it up..." All the Alarm references...so cool!
Okay, now I am listening to a KICK ASS version of Shine On...I've never heard this version...it ROCKS!
Okay, 21st Century Radio is now my favorite web radio station!
Whew, a live version of 68 guns..something I'm at least familiar with...I can get back to reviewing the new tracks now that I am not so distracted...
The Rock and Roll track was great. A departure from the similar sound of Close and Contenders. So far Rock and Roll is my favorite track, but perhaps it is because it is a reaffirmation of Mikes' vision...His epic promise that will not be undone...his undieing rock and roll mission that refuses to run out of steam or falter despite the ever-changing nature of the business...Mike and the Alarm 2002 ROCK and a new generation of fans are about to experience the SOUND and FURY.
Okay, Contenders is playing again...On a second listening, I am hearing a little David Bowie "heroes" in the mix, especially in the guitar lines...The drums and bass are definitely U2 influenced. Mikes' melodies in this song sound like Joshua Tree-era Bono, but I think that is a good thing since I am a big U2 fan as well, I just hate to make such a comment since he must get sick of hearing that comparison all the time.
I'm listening to a track I've never heard before..."I want what the world can't give me tonite" -that's one of the lyrics and the music is very classic rock sounding, complete with extended guitar solos and all....is that some rare Alarm demo I've never heard? Another song I've never heard "Its All Right I'm Only Bleeding" VERY ZEPPELIN sounding...fucking ROCK and ROLL!!! Where are all these songs coming from? Are these Poppyfields tracks? Man, that song rocked my world. Okay...I gotta sign off now. I gotta go write some songs of my own...I read on the website that Mike wrote Sixty+ tracks for these Poppyfields sessions. I counted all the songs I've written in my life (I'm 32 now) and the total is 67...Mike has written as many for his new album as I have in my lifetime! I am in awe of his creativity...Great job Mike. You just never let us fans down. Keep it up mate.

-with respect,
BrianTravis

Vol 1 of 'In the Poppy Fields' Bond has been dispatched first class to
all bondholders. Tracklisting as follows:

In the Poppy Fields: One

Close
Alone Together
In the Beauty of My Surroundings
Right Back Where I Started From
The Rock and Roll

Contenders
All Seeing
The Life You Seek Does Not Exist
With Friends Like You Who Needs Enemies
Swansong

Mike Peters and the band are currently applying the finishing touches
to Vol 2. Thanks to all of you for your incredible support.

Happy Listening

From all at MPO 21st Century

Two new items of interest today:

1. Two new songs have been aded to 21st Century Radio And The Alarm Radio Network. They are In e Beauty Of My Surroundings" and the final version of "Close"

2. We have new discussion forums, that are faster, better, have more features, and are now the OFFICIAL place to discuss The Alarm and related solo projects on the internet. You must re-register to use them, your old forum userid and password will not work.

As the release of Vol 1 of In the Poppy Fields looms ever closer, here's a taster of things to come...

Visit 21st Century Radio now and here two brand new songs: "Contenders" and "The Rock And Roll" Then, email us and tell us what you think!

Later tonight or tomorrow you will also be able to hear the songs on The Alarm Radio Network

After Mike/The Alarm MMII's successful appearance with Luciano Ligabue, Mike Peters has been invited back to Italy next week to play a special concert for peace. This gig will be the peak of the celebrations to remember the Terrorist attack, Mike has been choosen for the positive/pacifist/universal-love songs that he has written in his carreer and for his wide appeal.

11 Sept Reggio Emilia "Festa dell'Unità"
Mike Peters of The Alarm
Concert with strings
The Alarmorchestra
"Festa dell'Unità"
Campovolo
42100 Reggio Emilia


AN INTERVIEW BETWEEN MIKE PETERS AND ITALIAN PRESS

1) Did the twin towers tragedy affected your art? And how? (I
mean, songwriting, projects and so on)

On the morning of September 11, I had begun work on one of the songs for my new album called 'The Normal Rules Do Not Apply'. My wife phoned through to the studio to tell of the terrible events taking place in New York. At first, like everyone, I thought it was an accident but when the phone rang again to tell of another plane hitting the second tower, you knew something seriously terrible was unfolding. We tried to keep working on the song, but once we saw the pictures on the television we all left the studio to be at home with our loved ones. It was a strange day when everything that you had come to rely on suddenly seemed so fragile, the very infrastructure of modern life had come under direct threat and you knew that the world would never be the same again - 'The Normal Rules Do Not Apply'.


2) What is, or should be, the role of artists and art after the
twin towers, and what do you feel is, or should be, yours?

Not long after the eleventh I played at the Knitting Factory in Manhattan which is only two blocks away from where the WTC stood. It was the first time I ever performed 'The Normal Rules Do Not Apply' live, as I spoke about the song and my own experience of that terrible day, a hush came over the crowd who then listened to the song in complete silence. After the show the only song people wanted to talk about was that one and I realised that New York people want to talk about the eleventh, they want the chance to open up about there own experiences, to let their own emotions show and to allow the healing process to begin.

3) What do you think of the reasons that Bin Laden explained in
these months to justify the attack?

One of the tennets in the religion Bin Laden practices is 'Though Shalt Not Kill' or words to that effect.... there is NO justification.

4) What do you think of the American policy towards terrorism?

I think they are doing what they think is right to safeguard the well being of the American people.

5) What do you expect from your show in Reggio Emilia?

I am looking forward to it because it is an opportunity for me to present some very familiar songs in an unfamiliar way. I am also hoping to go and see Ligabue the following day.....

6) What are the main differences between playing in a rock band
and with a small orchestra?

Both are entirely different. In a rock band you are in command of a whole range of forceful dynamics such as volume and rhythm. With the orchestra, it is much more subtle and is driven more by the lyrics and the melody alone. The dynamics can be found in the silences that amplify the drama of the song or the pauses that highlight the narrative in the vocals.

7) Are you happy with what you’ve done so far as an artist?

Totally, I would not change one day, one lyric, one chord, one concert, one album. All have had their part to play in my musical life which I still enjoy as much today as I did yesterday.

Mike Peters and The Alarm MMII - 'In The Poppy Fields'

'In The Poppy Fields' - The first album of new material in over ten years to
bear The Alarm hallmark will feature some 50 brand new recordings which will
be released at monthly intervals via a unique bond / subscription service,
the 'In The Poppy Fields Bond'.

Beginning on September 21st 2003 and available only via www.thealarm.com and
The Alarm Information Service on the Twenty First Century Recording Label.
Mike Peters and The Alarm MMII will release not one, but four albums over
the course of the next six months culminating with the official release of
'In The Poppy Fields' at The Gathering on January 24 /25 2003. Bond holders
will also receive a special exclusive 'mystery' collectors CD in December
2002!!

Each of the first three releases will feature a principal track taken from
the 'In The Poppy Fields' album with nine other brand new recordings. The
first release 'Close' has been produced by Mike Peters & co-written with
OColoursound¹ guitarist Billy Duffy and described as a restless new wave
post-modern anthem featuring impassioned Mike Peters' vocals and guitars
that recall the sonic echo of OUnsafe Building¹.

In another ground breaking move, a special website,
www.inthepoppyfields.com has been created by Mike Peters to document the
entire recording process from beginning to end. Entry codes to areas of the
website will be given out with each release [to bond holders only]. The
website will also allow fans to download additional demos, outtakes and live
recordings to further supplement their 'In The Poppy Fields' collection.

Bond holders will also receive advance email notification of secret 'In The
Poppy Fields' happenings and have the opportunity to exclusively interview
Alarm lead singer and founding member Mike Peters.

Close can be heard now at www.21stcenturyradio.tv

The OIn The Poppy Fields Bond¹ is available now priced UK £45.00 / US $68 /
¤72 plus p&p [5 items]

Order now at www.thealarm.com or telephone 011 44 [0] 1745 571571.

---

Mike Peters & The Alarm MMII - In The Poppy Fields
Subscribe To The 'In The Poppy Fields Bond'



Your passport to the creative process with Mike Peters & The Alarm MMII

Subscribe To The 'In The Poppy Fields Bond' and save £/$/¤¹s on all 4 [four] Poppy Fields releases and receive a 'Free¹ mystery CD

Save over £10 off the total price of all individual Poppy Fields CD releases and receive a Œfree¹ mystery CD by subscribing to the ŒŒIn the Poppy Fields Bond¹.

From 21.09.02 and continuing on a monthly basis thereafter, bond holders will receive 5 brand new CD Releases from Mike Peters & The Alarm MMII

The first three releases will feature one principal track from the forthcoming ŒIn The Poppy Fields¹ album plus nine brand new tracks.

A Œmystery¹ bonus CD will be issued on December 2002 [available exclusively to bond holders only].

A limited edition - signed - Œproducers cut¹ double CD of the brand new studio album ŒIn The Poppy Fields¹ will then follow on January 20th 2003.

Totalling over 50 brand new recordings, the ŒIn The Poppy Fields Bond¹ also provides you with an entry code which allows unlimited free access to www.inthepoppyfields.com
[a website created personally by Mike Peters and featuring recording diaries, exclusive interviews and free downloads of demo tapes, outtakes and live tracks].

In addition bond holders will receive their CD¹s one week ahead of all individual release dates plus advance notification of secret ŒIn The Poppy Fields¹ happenings.

The ŒIn The Poppy Fields Bond¹ is available now priced UK £45.00 / US $68 / ¤72 plus p&p [5 items]

Order now at www.thealarm.com or telephone 011 44 [0] 1745 571571.


Close by Mike Peters & The Alarm MMII will be release one available from September 21st 2002.

Close is the first of three releases to precede the forthcoming brand new studio album ŒIn The Poppy Fields¹

Close is taken from the forthcoming album 'In The Poppy Fields' - Release date: 25.01.2003

Close is available to order now priced UK £12.99 / US$20 / ¤20 all plus p&p
Tel: 011 44 [0] 1745 571571 or visit @ www.thealarm.com



Close
CLOSE: RELEASE ONE OF FOUR : 21.09.2002
10 TRACKS ON LTD. EDITION CD

CLOSE
ALONE TOGETHER
CONTENDERS
RIGHT BACK WHERE I STARTED FROM
THE BEAUTY OF MY SURROUNDINGS
THE LIFE
ALL
NO RETURN
SWAN SONG
CLOSER

[Close can be heard now at www.21stcenturyradio.tv]

---

In The Poppy Fields Day With Mike Peters



Be amongst the first to hear OIn The Poppy Fields¹ the brand new album by
Mike Peters and The Alarm.

To be held on Saturday October 19th at The Faenol Fawr Country Hotel,
Bodelwyddan near Rhyl, North Wales.

In The Poppy Fields Day will feature a unique Olive¹ performance of the new
album by Mike Peters mixed using a special quadrophonic surround sound audio
system.

In The Poppy Fields Day will also feature OoRCHESTRaLARM¹ - a unique
acoustic performance of Alarm classics by Mike Peters and The Alarm
Orchestra.

OIn The Poppy Fields Day¹ promises to be an intimate 12 hour day in the
company of Mike Peters.

A strictly limited amount of tickets are available now priced UK £20.00.

To book your tickets telephone 011 44 [0] 1745 571571 or visit
www.thealarm.com

Alarm Information Service
MPO 21st Century Recording Label
P.O. Box 709 Prestatyn Denbighshire LL19 9YR Wales UK
Tel 011 44 (0) 1745 571571 Fax 011 44 (0)1745 571577
E mail mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

---

HOW DID THE IDEA FOR THE RESISTANCE TOUR COME ABOUT?
I had this idea for a kind of British version of say
the Travelling Wilburys, or a Crosby, Stills, Nash &
Young, coming out of my generation, and for a year or
so I approached various people like Pete Wylie, and it
took a bit of time to sink in for people. But in 2000
The Alarm and Spear Of Destiny went on tour together
in Britain, an it was on that tour I got talking
properly with Kirk Brandon and was able to explain the
idea over a few days and Kirk came on board straight
away, then Pete Wylie came to the gig in Liverpool
that we were playing and we press-ganged him into it,
and then Glenn Matlock came to the London show and we
got him in too!

I suppose the idea behind the Dead Men Walking project which features
myself Pete, Kirk, and Glenn was just showing that there is a lot of strength in unity,
and that by working togehter we can reach out to each
others' audiences and start to turn around all those
sort of nasty pre-conceptions that people have about
us because we're associated with a certain era. So all
of a sudden if we go out together Spear Of Destiny
fans who always thought they didn't really likeTthe
Alarm suddenly started to realise that they do like
us, and they only thought they didn't like it because
the press said it was no good - and when we were
younger we used to believe what they wrote in the NME!


But now people are finding things out for themselves
and Alarm fans are getting into Pete Wylie and Spear
Of Destiny and everything. The other great thing is
that it means that people - I think that thoughout the
nineties for example, Alarm fans have followed me and
my work in kind of isolation - but now those people
are meeting SpearOf Destiny fans at gigs and finding
that they've done the same journey but with Kirk
Brandon and the audiences have so much in common -
it's kind of a rock and roll Friends Reunited really!

One of the great things for us in Britain as The Alarm
was that we got to do a tour with Big Country and a
lot of their audience come to the shows as a result of
the relationships we made during that tour. In fact
Stuart Adamson was someone we were hoping to involve
in Dead Men Walking at some stage, but sadly we
couldn't reach out to him enough before he took his
own life... but we're all going to take part in
Stuart's testimonial if you like on the 31st of May.

So that's really how it all came about and by meeting
with Pete and obviously all talking about how we feel
an isolation as artists, and all that we've all had to
endure at the mercy of labels, and the inefficiency of
labels in their dealings with artists of our calibre
and nature, and Pete was articulating this idea of it
as the resistance - as a sort of theory, and I suppose
we were all articulating it ourselves anyway by
starting our own labels and dealing with our own fans
and so on, so it was a case of 'right let's put into
action the results of all our practices and our
theories' and the idea of The Resistance Tour is to go
out and play small places and to show that we can
actually make it work. In that way people can get to
see us close, and we can create a spread of ideas, we
can communicate what is a good idea in a small
environment - rather than tring to do it on a massive
scale where no-one really gets the point.

It's really the result of us all having been inspired
by, and having grown up with, punk rock; how that
started as a small acorn and for a year, before it
exploded in the tabloids, it was the greatest thing we
ever had. The myth of punk rock is that it was all
nihilism and black leather jackets and 'no future' but
when you were involved in it it was about the complete
opposite; it was about setting you free, creating your
own identity, making your own opportunities and
expressing yourself, though clothes, through fanzines,
through starting your own record label, and through
1976 and 1977 that was what punk was really all about
- not the kind of tribal, kind of gothic, black
leather look that the tabloids picked up on...

DO YOU FEEL THEN THAT THINGS HAVE COME FULL CIRCLE FOR
YOU?
In some ways absolutely yeah, and I think that in some
ways a lot of the audience have come full circle as
well. I know that a lot of our generation of fans -
the ones who grew up with The Alarm as their first
band if you like; a lot of the fans who saw us and had
their first ever experience at a rock concert - a lot
of that generation by the nineties might have had
children or were trying to establish themselves in
careers or whatever, which didn't allow them the time
or the space to go out and see their bands and at the
same time all of a sudden they dropped out of the
media target area for advertisers so it became very
hard to effectively promote your tours.

We all had to reinvent ways to get back to our
audience and making that connection, and I think that
full circle thing has happened to a lot of our
generation who've grown up now and maybe have children
who are old enough to babysit the other kids and so
they can go out again - and they turn on the radio and
they think 'what's happened to Radio One?!" or they go
through their old records and think 'we used to love
going to see The Alarm, where are they now?' and then
they click on the website and it's all still there for
them, they come back to us and realise there's a whole
world going on. One by one they come back into the
fold and hopefully they'll be back in for life!

HOW IMPORTANT HAS THE INTERNET BEEN IN REINVENTING THE
WAY YOU WORK?
It's been a lifeline for me - I was lucky to become
involved very early on. I actually used to work in
computers in 1976 before The Alarm, so I had a
grounding in it - in fact we used to run a very basic
sort of email thing in about '86, '87 when we were on
tour in America and we used to communicate with Wasted
Talent, our agency in London, with a little box that
we had which was very primitive - in fact I think we
only got it to work about twice - but I always
retained an interest in it.

When the original line-up of The Alram closed down in
1991, I started to carry on making music on my own and
I got a computer - a very early Mac to help me, and
then I started surfing about on the internet as it was
then, seeing what was going on, and I started to meet
fans over the internet and they said 'let's start a
chat group', 'let's start a website', 'let's put out
some information about The Alarm', and all of a sudden
from being an artist that didn't have a record deal or
anything like that I'd been given a voice to all those
fans I'd made through all those years of touring and I
was able to stay in touch with fans in Japan, and
America, and Europe even though I didn't have the
machinery to get over there as often as I could when I
had the backing of a major label.

Through being crative I have been able to build an
infrastrcture where I can now tour around the world
with or without record comapny backing... I've got The
Alarm's catalogue back, and I adminster all of that,
and I've been able to make all sorts of music over the
past ten years that has sort of set me free as an
artist.

I realised how limiting it is when we were in The
Alarm from 1981 to 1990, I realised how limiting that
actually was. If you'd ever wanted to make a solo
record in those days it was seen as being the death of
the band, whereas now I've learnt that some music is
meant to be small, some music can stand being put
through the mincer and being sent to radio and all
that, some music is strong enough to take that, but
some music is just meant to be played between you and
a small audience and I think I've learned to project
those ideas in the size that they were intended, and
because you've got a website you can communicate the
size of the idea, that not every release has to be the
big statement in your development as an artist, and
I've been able to go back to things... I did a
retrospective - I just went back to all the songs I
wrote as The Alarm and just did them on an acoustic
guitar and put them out to the audience and I think
that changed people's opinions of The Alarm because
they were able to listen to the music as a lyric and a
set of chords as opposed to in a concert with all the
fire and brimstone, and the haircuts, and all the
things that people didn't like about the band!

So as well as developing as an artist and putting out
new songs, and developing as a writer, I think I've
also been able to bring the past along with me and
actually to marry the two together which is why we
have The Alarm 2002 as the vehicle to portray The
Alarm from then in the modern era alongside the stuff
I do now and to see that they all stand together and
that they all come from the sameplace.

GIVEN ALL OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS, WHAT IS NOW YOUR
DEFINITION OF SUCCESS?
Being here right now talking to you. Being able to
make music in the way that I intended as a young gun
in The Alarm, and that's it. Going back through to the
very earliest interviewsI did, I always used to get
asked 'how long will you keep going?' and it was
always 'as long as I'm enjoying it' and I still am
enjoying it, and that is successs for me.

ARE YOU ENJOYING IT MORE?
Absolutely. So much more - you know you're not dealing
with... I was going to say wankers...

I THINK YOU CAN SAY THAT!
I'm now dealing with my audience on a day to day basis
and it's so liberating. I'm not having to go through a
journalist to communicate with my fans - I mean I'm
doing this now between you and I and that's great -
but now I can actually do things direct to the
audience and it takes all the stress out of it. I can
put a record out when I want to do it, in the form
that I want to do it, so through the website and the
internet I can be as powerful as Sony if I want to be
I really can, and that's why I don't need them to be
backing me as an artist. If they want to get involved
then that might be something to consider, but I don't
need them in the way that I had to have them there in
the 80s...

SO IF THEY WANTED TO GET INVOLVED NOW IT WOULD HAVE TO
BE ON YOUR TERMS RATHER THEN THEIRS?
Exactly. I think that the industry is having to look
at artists like The Alarm, and Marillion, and bands
like that who have very active fanbases, very healthy
record sales, and obvious international careers where
there's no funding coming in, and there's no marketing
resource there in the same way that you get from being
a label.

I think that they waste so much of their marketing
budgets on things that don't matter and they really
don't know how to build a band up from the ground up
any more. That has completely disappeared from the
record industry. Labels don't talk to the bands and
their managements about how they should be handled -
it's just a case of 'we know best' and they don't and
it's a tragedy for young bands coming through... I
help out a number of bands up here and I try to steer
them, and I always try to warn them off!

I think the music industry now is a pop industry full
stop, it doesn't mean music at all, but I do think
that there's a sea change coming, and I do think
they're going to have to realise that they've got to
develop acts for the middle youth - which is how I
would describe my crowd!

But you see so much snobbery in the music industry -
Imean even with programmes like Jools Holland you can
just tell that it's such a plugged programme.
Audiences are very intelligent now - they're so used
to living in a marketing world and landscape where
everything you look at is an advert for something that
they can tell. They switch off from these programmes
because they know they're seeing a formula and they
know it's driven by pluggers, not driven by passion.
There's not one music programme in the medai that's
driven by passionate people who would respond to the
passion of a Pete Wylie say, who would say 'well he
might not look 'right', but he's a fantastic song
writer and he's written classic songs in all his
era's', because he's not on Sony or anyone so he's
just not going to get a shot - it's a tragedy.

This all brings me back to The Resistance Tour,
because it's great to be creating our own
opportunities - we've set up our on internet radio
station for the tour, and it's all goes back to what
we all started at the beginning - Pete Wylie and The
Mighty Wah!, when I met him in the street outside
Erics in Liverpool in 1976 he talked about being in a
band one day and he actually went out and did it, and
he did his own label 'Eternal' and brought Black
through it, but then he had to sell the label to keep
going, but he actually put his actions into practise!
I wrote about him in the song 'Spirit Of '76', the
line 'Pete, he's seen his dreams come true' is about
Pete Wylie... he actually made his dreams come true,
he didn't just sit around and wait for some guy to
come along and tap him on the shoulder and say 'hey
boy, come along, you're going to be a star', he went
out and did it himself and he's still doing it now and
I admire that, that he's not given up on being an
artist.

We've all been in bands with people who've given up
when there's no gravy-train any more, which is why
none of us is really playing with the original
line-ups any more because that's what happens, and
when that success stops it tests their integrity, and
it tests their belief and their commitment to the
cause. That's partly why we want to go back and play
all these small venues - which we could all fill on
our own - but the idea is to have all three of us in
each place to show that we are real bands and we're
not bothered about fame, about who goes on first and
last, it's about communicating the idea that we're all
still alive and kicking... to quote Simple Minds!

WILL THERE BE MORE TOURS ALONG THESE LINES - MAYBE NOT
EVEN WITH THIS SET OF BANDS...
When we were all in the first generations of our
careers we all used to look at those sixties package
tours from the generation before, and think 'no way,
we never want to do that!" forgetting that we all grew
up on the 'White Riot' tour and the 'Anarchy' tour - I
mean the 'Anarchy' tour was Sex Pistols, The Clash,
and The Damned it was just phenomenal, and when you
get older people seem to think that it's just pipes
and slippers time and it just isn't! The idea of a
package tour came from the first things I ever saw;
going to see the Sex Pistols and going to see the
'White Riot' tour - which was incredible, it was The
Clash, Subway Sect, and The Buzzcocks and it was
amazing - and so I think it's great for bands t
double-up or triple-up because there's a power to it,
there's an excitement for the audience and it keeps
you on your toes as a band as well - there's the
school of thought that it can only be cool if it's by
18-year olds and if it's by 40-year olds it's just ike
cabaret... and that's just bollocks!

WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU, AFTER THE RESISTANCE TOUR?
I've got a new album that we've been creating for the
last few months and we're trying to do something quite
different with that; it was almost going to come out
on the tour, but I realised that with the idea behind
The Resistance Tour and what we're trying to do with
it, an album would just get lost, so I'm going to hold
the album back and put it out over the summer.

We're going to put it out in new way, there's a new
concept for the release... instead of it coming out
and you promote it and that's it, we're going to do
all the promotion leading up to it. Over the last few
years - when I've really started combining my work of
twenty years rather than just playing my most recnt
two or three years worth of material live - I realised
that what made some of The Alarm's songs big was that
they were actually physically released as singles, and
people were then able to focus on them for a month
before they got them in the context of an album.

What I'm going to do for the new album is to actually
put out three - maybe even four - virtual singles
before the album comes out. When I describe them as
virtual singles - you will be able to actually
physically buy them, but they won't go to shops, they
won't be in Woolworths, they won't qualify for the top
forty, but they'll have a lead cut that I can send to
radio if I want, and spread around as something to
focus on from the new record, but I can put ten tracks
on it if I want, or twenty, and have some live things
and some stuff spread out from the past twenty
years... So we're going to put these three of four
virtual singles out to focus people on the main
tracks, to lead up to the album which will come out
when I feel that we've created enough awareness. It's
sitting here ready to go really, so I'll probably
start by communicating the ideas during The Resistance
Tour, and the first release will be in June or July,
but it'll probably all start on The Resistance Tour's
online radio station during the tour, and will
probably be played live on the tour, and building it
up as a way of focussing people.

I feel I've made one of the best records of my life
and I'm not ashamed to say that, and I think that it
will stand up to scrutiny. I've even built a whole
website to document the whole recording process and
with each release people will be allowed to get into
another section so it'll build up a full picture.

it's kind of like a timed release of the whole project
as opposed to what the music industry does; they've
got us all conditioned to thinking that an album comes
out one week and that's it and they move on to the
next one, but I want to have a period of my life where
we're promoting this record and all the songs that go
with it so that nothing gets lost, and to give people
time to get into certain songs - the 1984 Alarm album
'Declaration' came out after four singles and when
people go the album they already had the little
markers in palce to help them get the whole album... I
also think that CDs are too long to get into
comfortably - most albums are 60 minutes long these
days which is too long, and I have an idea to split
this album over two CD's so people actually have to
take a break. It's all a question of putting in some
love, care, and detail in because that's all gone from
the record industry today.

SAUNTERING on to the stage like the old pro he is, ex-Alarm guitarist Dave Sharp cut an eye-catching figure in his black PVC waistcoat and medallion.

He launched into his set and, with his two guitars and harmonica, he was truly a one-man band, the archetypal wandering musician.

Switching between acoustic and electric guitar, he varied the pace and kept things interesting. A mixture of rock, folk and blues, his electric style has no doubt been enhanced by his recent extended residence in New Orleans.

Every travelling trucker's favourite, Sharp might have been alone up there, but he created a rocked-out atmosphere much larger bands would have been proud of.

The Complete Coloursound Collection
Twenty First Century Recordings (21C022,23,24) Three CD'S

Coloursound, the brainchild of Mike Peter's of The Alarm, Billy Duffy of The Cult, Craig Adams of the Mission/Sisters of Mercy, was bried flicker whose flame appears to have gone out. As someone who saw them live, I can say its a damn shame. Formed sometime in 1998, they toured extensively and released one full-length album that barely made a splash and never received Stateside release. Now it seems Duffy is back with The Cult full time, while Peters in concentratin on The Alarm. Coloursound were best described as The Cult with better Lyrics and vocals, and that description is spot-on. The three cd set represents the complete Coloursound recordings, and it's a stunning collection. Disc one is the 1999 Coloursound debut but in a remixed (for the better) form. "Under the Sun" kicks off the CD with a blistering riff from Duffy and tears down the walls in the same tradition as "Love Removal Machine." "State of Independence" is a showcase for the lyrical talents of Peters, while "Heavy Rain" showcases bassist Adams. "View from a Different Window" is a highlight with a huge chorus built over a great rhythm guitar line. There is a giant Cult-like break in "Alive" and another one in "Fade In Fade Out Fade Away," althogh they are both so good one can forgive the lifts. This disc closes with two highlights of the collection-a live Alarm cover, "Strength", along with a cover of The Cult's "She Sells Sanctuay," neither of which ar on the original release.

Disc two almost makes disc one pale in comparision, featuring 18 demos that have alternate riffs and lyrics and do-it-yourself urgency that make most of the tracks even more memorable than their fully produced counterparts. "Heavy Rain," "Under the Sun," "Alive," and "Fade In Fade Out Fade Away" were originally released as a limited edition EP of demo tracks and are all outstanding. "Time," "Revolver" and "Live Through You" are such good songs one wonders why they didn't make the cut on the original album, though "Starlight' is forgettable and closest thing to a clunker on the three discs.

Disc three features 11 of the album tracks in a acoustic form, and one track, "The Candle That Burns the Brightes (Is the first to go Out)," that is not available elsewhere. The acoustic material is all solid, but after the demos on disc two, it falls a bit short. This cd closes with four additional demo versions of "Fountainhead," "For the Love Of," "View From a Different Window" and "This Life," produced by Bob Rock, giving a hint of just how Cult these songs could have been. Disc three is the only disc that gives some clues as the timeline of this band, with some recording diary for the original sessions. I only wish such detailed insight was available on all the discs. Overall this is an indispensible collection for fans of The Cult and The Alarm and a real showcase for the talents of all involved. (www.coloursound.com)
- Brian Sherman

Afraid we have some bad news on the Aberdeen show scheduled for Thursday
night (15th August).

For reason's best known to themselves, the venue has cancelled the show.

Dave is extremely disappointed as after the welcome he received in Glasgow
on Saturday
he has been really looking forward to the remainder of his Scottish dates.

Shows in Portmahomcak on 13th & in Inverness on 14th August go ahead as
planned.

Resd a < href=http://www.efestivals.co.uk/estage/0112a/review.shtml> review of The Dead Men Walking from their Sunday 4th November 2001 show.

Photos from The Alarm 2002, Stadio Olimpico, Roma, July 15th, 2002 below:

The Alarm -- Declaration
I.R.S.
As Published in the March 1984


A lot of people are going to be put off the The Alarm, either because of their silly hair, or their rah-rah idealism. Those people are wrong. The Alarm are big. The Alarm are important. And on their new album Declaration (I.R.S.) is not only good, it's going to be the next major crossover on the order of U-Know-Who. Of course The Alarm do have silly hair, but I think that it's a manifestation of their philosophical outlook and their music. The Alarm are a combination of punk power and hippie idealism. And so is their hair. 'Nuff said.

While a lot of bands have tried to combine the '60s and '70s, none of them have been as successful as The Alarm. Musically, their secret is that they draw on Punk and then temper it with an acoustic sound while avoiding the wimpiness usually associated with folk. Lyrically, it works because they avoid Punk nihilism and concentrate more on positive personal politics. My only problem there is that many songs are about "us vs. them" without ever defining who "them" is. But when The Alarm's influences come together with a resounding clash, the results (and the bottom line) are great songs. The winner is the refurbished "Marching On," slowed down a bit, but with a new twist: Dave Sharp's Townshend-like acoustic guitar playing. There are others "68 Guns" is old to us but will run over A.O.R. and MTV ears, "We Are The Light," "Blaze of Glory" and the awesome set-closer "Howling Wind," which wraps up The Alarm's philosophy as neatly as "Marching On" declares it. This is rock and roll at its very finest and U2, R.E.M. and the rest are going to have to work very hard to top it.

--Jim Connelly

P.S. I still don't like their hair!!!

Pop Matter's Review Of The Alarm 2000 Greateast Hits Live

Alan Fahrner's Review of the Coloursound EP.

Read a a hef=http://atlanta.creativeloafing.com/2001-04-18/vibes_recrev.html> review of the Alarm 2000 boxed set from Creative Loafing.

Read a review of the first Coloursound album from The Phantom Tollbooth.

Fresh from a successful trip to Italy where Mike Peters and the band performed to over 70,000 people per night in San Siro, Milan (2 nights) and Olimpico Stadium, Rome, The Alarm MMII made a welcome return to Sessiwn Fawr, Dolgellau, North Wales (their previous much talked about appearance took place in 1998) where they rocked the patriotic Alarm crowd with a mixture of classics including the forthcoming brand new single 'Close'. Also appearing at the festival and making it one to remember were Paul Young and The Levelllers!

Mike and the band will be taking a well earned break from touring as they prepare for the release of 3 singles between now and The Gathering (Peters' own Alarm Festival which takes place in Llandudno, North Wales every January and attracts 1500 music fans from all over the UK and the rest of the world) For more info, visit www.thealarm.com

N. Wales Press, July 2002

Sessiwn Fawr, Dolgellau Photos Below:

Paul Young has been added to the bill to play alongside The Alarm MMII and
The Levellers on Sun July 21st. Stage times for Dolgellau (approx) as
follows:

Paul Young 6.15pm
The Alarm MMII 7.15pm
The Levelllers 8.30pm

All accomodation in Dolgellau in sold out for the weekend - an 8000 capacity
audience is expected.

Photos Of The Ligbue Support Tour Below!

Mike Peters And The Alarm 2002 Rome Broadcast
The Alarm 2002 show from rome, July 15th should be webcast at http://www.ligalive.com. Last week, The Alarm 2002 went on at 10:20 PST. Just to be safe, you might want to tune-in 9:00 PST or even ealier to make sure you don't miss anything.

EXCLUSIVE

ONE of the world's biggest rock superstars is being lined up to appear at a North Wales music festival, we can reveal.

Bono, the frontman of the Irish rock band U2, is discussing a secret appearance at the Sesiwn Fawr in Dolgellau, starting on July 19.

Organisers are trying to keep the plans out of the public eye, but last night confirmed that talks are being held on what would be their biggest ever coup.

One of Sesiwn Fawr's founders Ywain Myfyr said talks were taking place with the superstar.

1 Mike Peters, the Dyserth-based singer of The Alarm, is a close friend of the Dublin singer and will be meeting him the night before their appearance in Dolgellau.

Ywain said: "Mike's group, The Alarm, are playing in Dublin the night before they play Y Sesiwn Fawr and it is probable that Bono will be there although we don't know if he'll be appearing on stage with them.

"It is possible that Bono might cross the Irish Sea with The Alarm and make an appearance in Dolgellau the following evening.

"If he comes he'll be more than welcome. We'll just have to wait and see, but it is something that we have discussed with Mike Peters."

Mike Peters is currently in Italy on tour and was unavailable for comment last night. A spokeswoman for Island Records said she had no knowledge of Bono's plans for that weekend.

Music fans, already looking forward to Sesiwn Fawr, said they hoped the rumours were true.

Sian Evans, of Caernarfon, said: "I've heard some whispers about Bono appearing. I hope they are true. It would be a great finale to the weekend."

Definitely appearing at Sesiwn Fawr will be pop singer Paul Young. The former chart-topper will appear on Sunday afternoon with his latest band, Los Pacaminos.
Ywain Myfyr said: "Paul is confirmed as appearing even though he will be in California right up until the start of Sesiwn Fawr."

The Alarm have re-formed especially for an extensive European tour, which includes Sesiwn Fawn. They will share the stage with another specially reformed group, Anweledig, from Blaenau FTestiniog. The band achieved notoriety at Sesiwn Fawr two years ago when two Penllyn farmers did the "Full Monty" during their set.

Also appearing on Sunday evening will be the Morriston Orpheus Male Voice Choir, Richard J Parfitt, chie' vocalist of the 60 Foot Dolls, and the Levellers.

Other international artists appearing include Yat.Kha (Siberia), Berimbrown (Brazil), Cara Dillon (Eire), Mez (Hungary), with Jamaican reggae band Burning Spear making their last ever appearance. Also booked are Fernhill, Soothsayers, Boys of Hill,
Bob Delyn a'r Ebillion, Blue Horses, Kangaroo Moon, Estella, Pigyn Clust and Amigos.

In a new move this year Sesiwn Fawr fans will' have to pay £10 to enter the festival which will be held in a car park rather than on stages located in Dolgellau's main square.

Eight thousand tickets have been printed for each of the three days and are selling well.

erylcrump@dailypost.co.uk

On the 5th and 6th of July 2002, The Alarm 2002 rocked the San Siro Stadium in Milan, bigtime! Playing to approx 125,000 people over the 2 nights, Mike Peters, James Stevenson, Craig Adams and Steve Grantley did the legacy of the band proud as they performed their hearts out to a very responsive 'sold out' Italian crowd. It was a momentous and emotional moment in Alarm history for Mike Peters, especially as this was the biggest crowd in that Peters had ever played to since 1986 when The Alarm supported Queen at Wembley Stadium. The Italian audience really took The Alarm to their hearts, over Starsailor who failed to connect with the Italian fans.

Beginning with 'Breathe' , on both Friday and Saturday night, Mike Peters' stunning vocals soared around every corner of the San Siro Stadium, home of Inter and AC Milan and site of the World Cup Final in 1990. Mike's delivery of the Breathe vocals seemed to win over the Italian fans in an instant, so much so that on Saturday night, the hardcore Ligabue fans sang along to the chorus of Breathe. Rain in the Summertime followed ( a fitting tribute to the day of torrential rain which had threatened to wash out the show on the Saturday) where the young Italian fans responded excitedly to Mike's teasing with the cups of water in true Rain in the Summertime style. 'Knife Edge' crashed in and by this moment, Mike and the band had San Siro in the palm of their hand with the crowd singing along to the refrain of the chorus.

On Saturday night, Mike introduced Ligabue's good friend and MC to the stage, Tavere (otherwise known as the Italian John Belushi) who explained to the Italian crowd that The Alarm were filming the next song, 'Close' for a video (Peters' own company 21st Century Films were filming the San Siro show with a 6 camera film crew). The reaction of the crowd was incredible with the whole stadium clapping along in unison and singing along to the outro of the song. Set against all The Alarm/Mike Peters' classics, 'Close' was received as the best song of the night!

The familiar 'Sold Me Down The River' maintained the pace, followed (on Friday) by 'Where Were You Hiding' (when a blaze of 'Close' playing cards' showered the front rows of the stadium). Mike dedicated 'Spirit of 76' to Ligabue and the crowd went wild! (Ligabue had joined Mike Peters to play 'Knockin' on Heaven's Door' at one of Peters' solo acoustic shows last year in Cabriago).Unfortunately, on the Friday night, Peters's acoustic guitar refused to work and so he rescued the moment by amusing the Italian audience with his limited knowledge of Italian, 'Cazzo!' The stadium roared! It was an amazing moment to watch the capacity crowd with their hands in the air. 'Rescue Me' followed, which prompted the Italian audience to sing a Ligabue song which bears a striking resemblance to Rescue Me (Ligabue is a confessed Alarm fan). On Friday night, the band reached a grand crescendo with the world-famous '68 Guns'. On Saturday night, the set was cut one song short due to the complications caused by the torrential rain.

Starsailor played a lacklustre perfomance on the Friday night and were far surpassed by the stadium natural, Mike Peters. On Saturday night, The Alarm opened up for Ligabue an hour later and paved the way for a stunning performance by the Italian superstar (www.ligabue.com) The whole Saturday concert was streamed live on the internet and it is hoped that this will happen again for next week's Roma Olimpica Stadium show on July 15th.

Paulo Ferrara, www.alarmitalia.com

Mike Peters and The Alarm MMII are currently in Italy where they are performing 2 nights at the sold out San Siro Stadium in Milan and Stadio Olimpico in Rome as special guest to Italian megastar Ligabue alongside Starsailor.

21st Century are filming the San Siro stadium shows for inclusion on the forthcoming Close video

Read a great Dead Men Walking Review over at Whisperin' and Hollerin'

Mike Peters returns from Italy to appear at the Guildford Festival on July 20th with Dead Men Walking. The Dead Men will be appearing in the afternoon. Please visit www.guildford-live.co.uk for further details or call numbers below.

GUILDFEST
01483 - 454159

STARGREEN TICKET LINE 020 7734 8932

Wob, a witty, energetic and very talented guitarist and vocalist, will be opening for the Dave Sharp "Summer of Love" gigs in Nottingham, Ashton, Glasgow and Chester.

With his "trusty acoustic guitar" in hand, Wob has toured extensively (and recorded) in Britain, Europe and Australia. (Please find out more about Wob at www.geocities.com/wobonline/ ).

Dave is delighted to have him onboard for these shows. Welcome to the Summer of Love, Wob!

In between Mike's rock'n roll exploits, Mike has found time to visit two of
the UK's finest soccer grounds - his beloved MUFC and Liverpool's Anfield.
Here is an account/photos of his visit to Old Trafford for starters...
Anfield to follow next week.

At Old Trafford, Mike was able to emulate his soccer heros at MUFC, getting
changed in the official 'home' dressing rooms, entering the pitch via the
tunnel to the same music as the first team. For a lifelong United supporter
following in his Grandfather's footsteps, it was a dream come true. Mike
played alongside former Wales and Man Utd player, Mickey Thomas. Mike played
in a series of six '6 a side' football matches. Mike's team was called
Edwards Eagles after United Soccer Legend, Duncan Edwards. Mike's new bass
player, Tony Barber joined forces with Mike on the pitch. Mike and his team
played in white 'away' Man U strip. Mike was thrilled to be presented with
Mikey Thomas' red United shirt. The day was topped by Mike's team winning
the Vodaphone Cup and Mike walked away with his own Winner's Medal.

MORE FEEDBACK - The Resistance Tour was a huge success - thundering through 33 British towns in 6 weeks! Thanks to all of you who showed your support. Here is a selection of more incredible feedback....

Rock City, 6th May. Three great set's. The Alarm/ Kirk's Westworld & The Stand was the best that i have ever seen them.
Great night.
N. Rhodes.

Fantastic show on Saturday in Scunthorpe. What a blast!
Finally got to meet you after the gig - it's been a 15 year wait.
Keep on rockin' mate.
See you in Sheffield next week and Oxford at the end of the tour.
Best wishes
A.Parker ( old Alarmie re born )
PS 'Breathe' was fantastic !

Just had to drop a quick mail to thank you for a
fantastic gig on Wednesday night - brilliant to see
you in such small venue again. What an atmosphere!! J Forbe

I can't wait to see Mike Peters again and hope to make it to the Gathering in January.
Cheryl R

just trying to recover from the lomax last
night, just wanted to thank you all for a night night.
great to hear old songs aswell as mike peters solo
stuff blended in the set, blinding gig.
hope to see you on a solo tour soon
thanks again take care s ash

Been watching Mike since 84. I left the fold over the last 10yrs, but
the "Spirit" at Rock City - Nottingham was as good as ever. It's good
to be back. Tim

...that gig at Swansea was one of the best I've seen, it was fantastic to get to see you at an intimate venue and be able to stand right at the front and get squashed! I must confess to pinching a set list at the end..something I haven't done for about 10 years!
I did the entire tour in '89/90 when you were supported by Salvation (if you remember them) and cried every night when you did New South Wales.. still brings a tear to my eye... anyway you are better than ever, the band are great and you truely are the Prince of Wales! C. Burrell & S. Hutchins

Saw a show the other night that features various members of the ALaRM, the Buzzcocks, Generation-X, Chelsea, the Cult, Stiff Little Fingers, Spear of Destiny and the Sex Pistols. Their ever-revolving line-up transformed an apathetic Tuesday night crowd in Middle Aged Middle England into a room full of maniacs Dancing Like Children.

There was passion, there was belief, but most of all there was fire in the belly of the beast and it was beautiful to be part of. Amongst them there is not one single official main stream media backed release but instead an underground fan driven network of support that sustains their collected works, amongst them many truly great hits of their time along side unsung classics that touch the hearts and minds of everyone who still goes out to see these kinds of live and explosive Rock and Roll bands !!!

What a great night last night at York.Went to Bradford had a good night out.So we got tickets for York mega.If we don't see ya before will see you at the gathering next year.Keep up the bloody good work and keep rockin.John &Sue

Saw your solo acoustic show at The Brook in Southampton a little while ago. Very good. Jonathan Mortimer BA.

For me, the best was left 'til last. How right you were when you pointed out during your 't-shirt spotting' session (thank goodness I'd decided not to wear my Nolans t-shirt that night!) that people don't play decent music anymore. A room full of thirtysomething-pluses enjoying proper music, is a telling reflection on the talent (or lack of it) around today and as you said - all the people who stayed at home that night, listening to mainstream dribble (including friends of mine who wouldn't come), certainly don't know what they missed.

Once again I was transported back to my virgin gig in 1985 - Manchester Apollo ( was it really that long ago? I must have been very young when I bought my first Alarm album), but Tuesday at the Roadmender was the first time I've ever been on the front row and I can now add to my accolades that I have had water spat in my face by Mike Peters . Cheers !!
When are you touring again?
Keep it coming !
Jo

All I can say about the Roadmenders gig is absolutely shit hot! All the memories came flooding back from the memorable eighties especially the BEST ALBUM EVER(DECLARATION) MORE SO BECAUSE OF BLAZE OF GLORY! Mike I have got to say that you have still got the magic vocal chords that I still remember from the magical eighties and that you put all the other bands of today to shame. A big thank you to you for giving a mention for Stuart Adamson which was very touching as he is a legend in his own right just like yourself. I was a big follower of The Alarm in the eighties going to Gig after Gig and as I have just mentioned the magical sound came flooding back. Hope to see you again soon.
Cheers Mike, Duane F
ps : Is there an Alarm tour Coming up in the near future?

hi mike
just to thankyou for the concert last night in manchester.it was the best gig i had been to in 15 yrs.
i had my 15 year old son nicky with me who is a moshe but likes your music and he was completely blown away.i was the prat in front of you who kept sticking a camera in the air.anyway thanks again for a great night and for making me realise how naf arena concerts are. regards nich b

Mike and the Band
Thanks for a brilliant night our voices are still hoarse. Spirit of 76 still raises the blood pressure as all the songs do. Great to see Dave Sharp, It just gets better. Thanks for the last 20 years and here's to the next twenty.See you at the gathering if not before.
Cheers D.Spragg

Opening with Breathe and proceeding to rock the house with many fine tunes
Mike and his band of renegade Punk Rockers really set the place on fire, Im
sure there was literally sweat dripping from the ceiling! Mid set we are
treated to a medley of punk songs by the various members of the band, ie
SLF, Buzzcocks and Chelsea this saw the old punx in the crowd, me included,
going pogo crazy.

As a final treat we were introduced to none other than Mr. Dave sharp who
joined the ever increasing number of musicians on the stage for a stomping
Keep on Rockin in the Free World.

The Resistance Tour 2002 proved to be one of the best gigs I have been to
since the heady days of 1978,hope to see you back soon Guys.

jonny l
MCR 2002

Anticipation was high as the Spear/Alarm fans traded places at the bar /stage,
With very buzzing ears it was acknowledged that Mike was going to have to hit the stage running to keep up with the previous hour, and boy did he, he almost fell off on more than one occasion.
11pm saw Kirk return the favour of introducing the Alarm MMII, and it was back down memory lane for a performance that must rate somewhere in my top 3 Alarm gigs,I was Sixteen again in the middle of a marauding mass of sweaty bodies being carried along on the wave after wave of pogo, mosh,call it whatever....
Its been a long time since I've witnessed a fever this hot around Mike and the band,the performance was raw, it was angry it was punk, it was LOUD.......
Mike's energy is phenomenal, jumping running crowd surfing continually,he definitely is having the time of his life,but he must remember to remove that harmonica bracket otherwise before the end of the tour he will loose those front teeth..
The crowd more beer fuelled than with Spear, erupted in to aggression during"Where were you.." and Mike donned his peace keeping hat to restore the situation to what it was meant to be ..FUN ..but 2 songs later when some moron mistook the words for "come up on stage and grab the mic" in a move that could not have been crafted better by the WWF, Mike himself turned wrestler,he grabbed him, flipped him, threw him over Grantlys drums and dumped him back in the audience where he belonged.....awesome......
Biggest cheer of the night was again the dedication of "Spirit..." to the late Mr Adamson......Respect
Set contained the usual crowd pleasers but to me it was noticeable that "Breath" "21st Century"and "Regeneration"(with the exception of the Buzzcocks ,Chelsea,SLF medley) didn't go down with everyone as well as the oldies,this tour has definitely dragged a load of old fans back in to "Mike" circles, and hopefully with the discovery he has a career outside the Alarm, they will stay onboard this ever accelerating wagon...they were not bothered who was playing what instruments they were there to hear the songs they know and loved and that is what they got ....and some.........
Set:

Breath
Rain in the summertime
Knifedge
Spirit
Rescue Me (Inc Speech)
21st century
Marching on
Where were you...
68 Guns
Regeneration

Encore
Blaze of glory
Absolute reality
Westworld (with Kirk)
Unsafe Building...


Awesome sweaty evening of pure Loud music, £14 well spent......

CHEERS FOR THE GIG IN SALISBURY ON FRIDAY WE ALL HAD A GREAT TIME MIKE & THE BOYS WERE ON TOP FORM AS USUAL, A.Evans

M.P.O./ 21st Century is very excited to announce that Mike Peters and The Alarm MMII will be appearing at all 3 stadium shows this Summer as special guests to Italian singer songwriter and megastar, LIGABUE:

July 5th - San Siro Stadium, Milan (Special Guest, The Alarm MMII, Starsailor, Alex Lloyd)
July 6th - San Siro Stadium, Milan (Special Guest, The Alarm MMII, Alex Lloyd)
July 15th - Stadio Olimpico,Rome (Special Guest, The Alarm MMII)

This is a very exciting opportunity in Alarm history for Mike, his band and fans alike. So if you fancy a weekend trip to Italy to see Mike perform at the home of inter-Milan and against the backdrop of the Olimpico Stadium in Rome then check those flights and hotels now! It's never been cheaper or easier to visit Italy so what are you waiting for! For those in the UK, you can fly from London Stanstead (www.ryanair.com ) to both Milan Bergamo and Rome Ciampino

THE HISTORY BEHIND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LIGABUE AND MIKE PETERS....
Ligabue is an Italian songwriter who has released 6 albums (all went to number 1 in the chart). Ligabue writes rock music, honest songs that speak directly to the heart of the people and incredible live shows that made him the most successful live act in Italy. Ligabue music does not follow any trend or fashion and can sometimes remind people of Bruce Springsteen and U2 because of Ligabue's passionate and inspired songs.

Ligabue is also successful in the movie world. He directed a movie: "Radio Freccia", story of one of
the first Italian rock independent radios in Italy in the 70s. The movie went to number one too and won many critic awards. A few weeks ago Ligabue presented at the Cannes film festival his newest movie titled "From Zero to Ten" where he also wrote the soundtrack.

Ligabue's new cd "Fuori Come Va?" ("How is it going outside?") , released last month, is glued to the top of the Italian album chart while the single is at the top of the radio and sales chart.

This week, Ligabue presented his forthcoming tour with a press conference held at the Milan-Inter football museum, inside the San Siro Stadium. The choice of this bizzarre location is immediately clear: Ligabue will open his summer tour with two consecutive nights at the San Siro Stadium in Milan on the 5th
and 6th of July, followed by a concert at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome!

The first Milano gig is already sold out and the remaining 2 gigs are expected to be sold out really quickly for a total of 180.000 people. A special triangular-shaped stage (each side is 156 meters long) designed by
Jimmy Palace, that will enable Ligabue to reach different areas of the stadium. "I didn't wanted the contact to be limited to the first rows" he explained.

At the press conference Ligabue also unveiled the support acts which includes Starsailor on the 5th, the Australian songwriter Alex Lloyd on the 5th and 6th and Welsh band The Alarm MMII on all 3 concerts.
More support acts will be announced soon.

On the choice of support acts, Ligabue commented: "Starsailor released a very good record,
Alex Lloyd is a new songwriter that deserves attention and reminds me of Elvis, while with The Alarm there's quite a strong relationship. I saw Mike Peters playing a blinding solo gig in occasion of the 20 years of the Alarm in a concert venue near my hometown: he really gave everything over a 3-hour set telling anecdotes about the problems in his life and within his band. He also invited me onstage and together we played a Dylan's cover. When Mike Peters asked me if The Alarm can open my concerts it has been a real
pleasure to say yes."

www.ligabue.com

Doors open at 15,00
Gigs will start at 17,00
Info-line +39 02-542724
To buy tickets on line you can check at (all the websites have the English language version)
www.tkts.it
www.boxoffice.it
www.ticketweb.it

M.P.0/21st Century are proud to announce that The Alarm MMII and The Levellers will perform together at the Sessiwn Fawr Festival in Dolgellau, Mid Wales this Summer.

Following on from the Ligabue Concerts in Italy, Mike and the band will fly back to Wales to perform at Sessiwn Fawr. The Sessiwn Fawr Festival is fast being recognised as a premier Welsh Festival. Mike returns by special demand after appearing at Sessiwn Fawr 17th July 1998 (Mike Peters Live CD) to appear at a special Sunday night alongside The Levellers and Richard Parfitt (60 Foot Dolls) Ticket price £12 (see further ticket info below)

Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau
19, 20 & 21 July, 2002
This year, for the first time, Sessiwn Fawr will be staging a concert in the main festival arena on Sunday night, 21st July. The special guests need no introduction.
The Alarm MMII, The Levellers, Richard J Parfitt


Dolgellau stands in the beautiful valley of the River Wnion at the foot of Cader Idris and within easy reach of the beautiful sands of Cardigan Bay. The town¹s wonderful granite architecture is a majestic backdrop to this incredible music festival which is held on a large green site in the town. The festival, with its five diverse stages, offers a unique cultural mix of world rhythms and sounds.

Where to stay
The official festival campsite is within easy walking distance of the festival field. But if a night under canvas is not for you then there is hotel, hostel, guest house and bed and breakfast accommodation
available in the area. For further information please contact the local tourist office on 01341 422888.

Fancy a drink and something to eat?
Sesiwn Fawr prides itself in attracting the best in world music. We also try to offer a range of food to delight the taste buds. We present a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes with a wealth of savoury, spicy and sweet options in between.There are bars on the Festival field selling the best ales or soft drinks.

01650 531501 Information Line
Sunday Night £12
Weekend Membership £20
Friday and Saturday Membership £10
Friday £6
Saturday £7
Children under 18 Free
Ticket Hotline 01248 35170

Brand new virtual single - hear it first from June 3rd on MPO's very own radio station @ www.21stcenturyradio.tv

'Close' is the first of 3 singles to be released over the next six months before the exciting launch of the new album 'In the Poppy Fields' at next year's Gathering. Each CD single will feature approx 10 tracks including live tracks and brand new songs penned by Mike Peters. In the true tradition of 'b sides', these extra songs will only appear exclusively across the 3 singles. The single 'Close' will be available to buy from M.P.O. in approximately six weeks…

Dates for the acoustic leg of the Summer Of Love tour are starting to come in thick and fast. The first eight shows across England and Wales are confirmed with many more (including Scotland and Ireland) to be added over the coming weeks.
Dave is promising something special for these shows, and there are rumours that he is planning a 2 hour show which he says will “blow you away”.

Dave is working on the set list daily and the early work shows material spanning all the way from Hard Travelin’ to the very newest material, along with selected traditional songs. Dave is working on new arrangements of some songs, and these may even include the occasional classic from Dave’s days with The Alarm.

The dates confirmed so far are:
June 24, 2002
June 24th: The Wheatsheaf, Oxford (Dave Sharp)
July 2nd: The Old Vic, Nottingham (Dave Sharp)
July 4th: Upstairs At The Garage, London (Dave Sharp)
July 9th: Witchwood, Ashton Under Lyne (Dave Sharp)
July 12th: The Chattery, Swansea (Dave Sharp)
July 19th: The Boardwalk, Sheffiled (Dave Sharp)
July 21st: The Railway Inn, Winchester (Dave Sharp)

No opening acts have yet been confirmed, but there have been numerous enquires from singers/songwriters/musicians keen to open for Dave. There may even be some special guest appearances here and there. Full information on guest artists will be posted when confirmed.

Dave has just entered the studio to record a brand new acoustic solo CD to accompany the tour. “Summer Of Love” the CD should be available by the time Dave hits the road in three weeks time. There will also be a brand new range of Dave Sharp merchandise available at the shows featuring artwork especially commissioned for the tour.

To be kept informed of the latest information regarding the Summer Of Love tour & merchandise, please send a blank e-mail to davesharpnews-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or enter your e-mail address below:

******* Please note that due to the forthcoming release of the single, 'Close', the M.P.O. office will be closed until 24th June. The office will continue to operate as an answer messaging facility. If you wish to speak with someone personally then please call 01633 489595 (between 5pm and 7pm) where a member of MPO staff will be happy to take your call.

A big thank you from Mike Peters and all at M.P.O. to all of you who showed
your amazing support on the Resistance Tour. As those of you witnessed, Mike
has not enjoyed a tour so much in years. Mike will be spending the next few
months fine-tuning the new album and writing extra b side tracks for the
three forthcoming singles. Mike is very excited about the future and looks
forward to seeing you all again at the Summer Festivals in Wales and
Italy.... Here is a photographic taster of things to come
'inthepoppyfields'...

The hard work of mega Alarm-fan Rob Montes paid off this week, as The Alarm are the "Featured Artist" on Live365.com. Check it out Here

Attention to all people attending the Cheese and Grain in Frome - please note that the concert venue has moved to:

'The Amulet'
The Market Square
Shepton Mallet

For further information and directions please call 01749 345258 or Tour Tickets on 01745 571577

Kind Regards, MPO/Tour Tickets

This just in!

MIKE PETERS AND DAVE SHARP
At the Band on the Wall in Manchester following a rocking, sweat-drenched concert, Mike Peters made a surprise announcement and invited Dave Sharp onstage to play 'Rocking in the Free World'. Mr. Sharp had just returned from New Orleans, USA to prepare for his UK Summer of Love Tour. It was great to see Mike and Dave singing on the mic together once again. Dave expertly took the guitar solo of the song, playing a white Gibson Les Paul. It was a fitting way to end a fantastic night!

Check out the photos below!

Rise, Mike Peters, Velvel Records/BMG
Reviewed by Gord Wilson.

And now for something completely different. From out
of nowhere, a propos of nothing, comes this passionate
spiritual and social testimony from Mike Peters,
frontman and lead singer of the Alarm. Rise sounds
like nothing so much as the later mystical musings of
beat poet Jack Kerouac, with rhyming, nearly-rhyming
and non-rhyming lyrics hammered out in dazzling,
dislocated wordplay.

Musically its Abbey Road style production reaches back
to Sgt. Pepper and 60's pop, with 90's industrial club
and distortion FX adding a postmodern sense of chaos.
The Alarm has always acknowledged its debt to the Fab
Four, but that's not the only nod to the Beatles. On
Rise, Peters clearly tributes John Lennon, and one of
the best songs on the album, "Transcendental," could
almost be an outtake from Double Fantasy.

Rise alternates imaginative visions and kaleidoscopic
dreams with uncensored denunciations and unsettling
nightmares to create a sense of vertigo. While there's
nothing here so immediately gripping as the Alarm's
resounding anthem, "68 Guns," hidden in the middle of
this disc are a handful of songs which are
unforgettably compelling. "Transcendental,""You Are to
Me,"and "My Calling is You" weave together a joyous
tapestry in praise of life and creation.

Peters is never afraid to experiment, and some might
accuse him of overreaching on this ambitious disc. The
industrial club mix of "White Noise," here included as
an alternate version, detours from his signature rock
vocal style, but he pulls off a modern reversion of
"The Message," originally spun by old school rappers,
Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, surprisingly
well.

In other songs, Peters denounces various Blue Meanies
in his outspoken, take-no-prisoners style, but the
Meanies don't seem so scary knowing that Peter's tribe
is on the rise.

-copyright 2002 Gord Wilson, Living Dog Productions

GLASGOW SOLD OUT TONIGHT!

Dear all, I thought i would write a quick note to thank Mike Peters for
putting a smile back on my face on Tuesday at Esquires Bedford.It was a
brilliant nite and very nostalgic. I look forward to seeing the Alarm again=
.
All the Best, Paul


Last but not least,
Mike!..........................................................." OUTRIGHT
WINNER EVERY TIME, MATE, "
What a medicine show, this kind of cure could not be purchased off any
shelf, this is pure antidote material !!
This is not a test, this IS rock & roll at its best.
Truly yours,
FRANK RAWDING

What can I say Wrexham last night blew me away, although i have seen the
band before they were on fire last night, If you want to see the photos
please check out http://communities.msn.co.uk/MikePetersPhotos/ cheers Richard

Before the gig, i was actually looking forward to seeing SOD more than the
Alarm, as SOD are a relatively new band to me whereas i've now heard the
Alarm's greatest hits many many times. As it turned out - Mike and the boys
were truly excellent and i was completely blown away.

The songs were incredibly fresh and tight, and the group sounded much
rockier than usual; i think this is probably down to the new bass player
(who is rock n' roll - this guy is to bass what Billy Duff is to lead
guitar).

Mike himself has lost some weight and looks 10 years younger. His passion
for the music, however, still seems to be increasing. For me, the gig was
one of the best that i have seen Mike play (the Fleece is always an
excellent venue). Last night i stood and witnessed a truly great rock and
roll band - i have come away with my Alarm head completely rejuvenated.

One piece of advice before i sign off - GO AND SEE THIS TOUR!!!
(You'll regret it if you don't)
Cheers all , Shawn (looking foward to Frome!)

Fantastic night - I love the fact
that Mike is being more interactive with the audience
- just like the oldies days and really kicks the crowd
into gear.
Time for some sleep and roll on Bedford.
Katrina


Haven't enjoyed an MP/Alarm show so much in years. The guys were on top
form. As for the Alarm - incredible. All the old songs sounded so fresh and
new it reminded me of why I loved the band and their music so much, which is
something I think I'd forgotten over the last couple of years.

Spoke to the lovely Peter from the MPO and he said the response the MPO has
received during the tour was amazing. After some of the gigs they have had
loads of 'new' fans contacting them immediately as a result of seeing the
gig.

Roll on York. - Di

Just back from the Resistance - Sheffield style...
...and what can we say about the Alarm? It almost
took me back to the Sheffield Limit in the early 80's.

Highlight of the night, for me, was when Mike
introduced Tony Barber of the Buzzcocks, and they did a
bit of a Buzzcock song, then James with a Chelsea song
(great lyrics 'I gotta right to - work!), and SOD's
drummer with Gotta Getta Way by SLF.

Tonight probably saw the longest version of Rescue Me
(well the longest one I've experienced anyway) - there
was a reasonable sized mosh pit who went wild over
anything Alarm except Unsafe for some reason
(probably because it was the last song and they were
knackered!)

This was definitely Mike at his most enthusiastic, and
the encore with Mike & Kirk singing Westworld and
Unsafe saw them giving 150% right to the end.

All in all, a stonking night, Pauline

What a fantastic show
I almost forgot how enoyable it is to be squished up against the stage!
Please pass on my thanks to Mike, Kirk and Pete for a great evening.
D.Sore, London

Just had a message from my brother, Toby Miller, he said he bumped into you
at the first night of the tour in London. He said it was a fantastic night
and with out a doubt it would seem that the old man hasn't lost anything
since we first saw them in April '85 at Portsmouth Guild Hall !! It's great
to have the box set out with me here in Ghana, although the rest of the
office despair at yet another playing of "Where were you Hiding"! Rupert,
Ghana

I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the gig at the Nexus club
in Southampton on Thursday night (25th). It really was an excellent night.
A little "snapshot in time" for me was when you were singing the long note
in Breathe (and singing it beautifully), and the light glinted off your
guitar into my eyes. Just one of those memorable little moments in life!

So I suppose I just want to say a massive THANK YOU for all the songs from
68 Guns to everything you've ever sung since. For making music I can feel
as well as hear. And for realising you have fans south of London and
actually coming to Southampton (have loved the gigs you've done at The
Brook - please come back again soon!) L. Parsons

Hi came to the gig last night at Nexus it was great really enjoyed it a lot=
.
T Paskins

Hi Mike, Just to let you know how much i enjoyed the gig in Coventry . Also
enjoyed the other Bands . It was great hearing the Alarm Classics again .
Got back into your music when you supported Big Country on the final fling
tour . Great that your playing Stuart's tribute concert . Have been catching
up on your music and enjoying it ! . My fav song (REGENERATION) good luck
with the rest of the tour & the new album from a new ( old ) fan ! cheers
Ian F.

I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic show at the Sugarmill in Hanley
tonight. Never been much of a SOD fan - but they kicked ass just! Big Alarm fan - and followed your solo career since then - no disappointment tonight - you guys rocked!
The whole ambiance of the show was wonderful; the feeling behind it -
inspirational; the way the two separate bands of fans (ie yours and SODs)
ganged together in mutual boogying - was great to watch! And, just for the record, every time that I have seen you play Spirit of 76 - it has bought a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat - tonight was no exception.
Thanks again
KEEP IT REAL


Fantastic night Mike at the Scunthorpe Baths Hall on the 4th of May. Just
the same heady night as all the other Alarm gigs ive been to. Hope to see
you on the road again soon. Keep On Rocking In The Free World. Stef and
Marie 2 devoted Alarm fans.

Leeds was absolutely superb, highlights had to be pete playing 7 minutes to midnight, an awesome westworld by kirk and mike but the undoubted highlight was Rescue me , great crowd three great bands see you in
Sheffield!
Ps kirk any chance of playing Liberator in York or sheffield?
Cheers M.Smith

Absolute magic at Rock City last night!
From,
Andrew Dawes

Hi
Just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed the gig at Leeds Cockpit on
Sunday night. It was great to see that Mike has lost none of his
enthusiasm. Good luck with the rest of the tour.
love, Sue x

The Leeds gig on sunday was another belter, 15years and over 100 shows late
ri still get a buzz seeing the old songs played live, please can we have Strength played at Fibbers surely one of the most underated songs mike has
written.
John. York

I think last night (Scunthorpe) was the best I have ever heard Mike play th=
e songs of The Alarm. I was very moved.
P Cole

Rise Demos - I'm really enjoying this album. I'm Falling and Break Bread
with Me are two terrific songs. Will the live dvd ever be released in the US?
Thanks, P. Manning

Last Monday, Mike Peters fulfilled a lifelong ambition when he played on the
hallowed turf of Old Trafford in a celebrity soccer match where he played
alongside Mark Owen from Take That and Mickey Thomas, hitting the bar, if
Peters' reports are to be believed! Rumour has it that Mike and Mark are
planning to get together to write some songs in the future. All this on top
of Mike's liasons with Robbie Williams and Billy Duffy in LA!

This weekend Mike will be appearing at The Music Industry Soccer Six at
Anfield, Liverpool - inbetween his Scottish Tour!

Mike Peters will be competing alongside Ant n Dec, Goldie, Blur, Westlife,
So Solid amongst others. Reports and photos to follow next week.

Fantastic night Mike at the Scunthorpe Baths Hall on the 4th of May. Just the same heady night as all the other Alarm gigs ive been to. Hope to see you on the road again soon. Keep On Rocking In The Free World. Stef and Marie 2 devoted Alarm fans.

Leeds was absolutely superb, highlights had to be pete
playing 7 minutes to midnight, an awesome westworld by kirk and mike but the
undoubted highlight was Rescue me , great crowd three great bands see you in
Sheffield! Ps kirk any chance of playing Liberator in York or sheffield?
Cheers M.Smith

Absolute magic at Rock City last night!
From,
Andrew Dawes

Hi

Just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed the gig at Leeds Cockpit on
Sunday night. It was great to see that Mike has lost none of his
enthusiasm. Good luck with the rest of the tour.

love, Sue x

The Leeds gig on sunday was another belter, 15years and over 100 shows later i still get a buzz seeing the old songs played live, please can we have Strength played at Fibbers surely one of the most underated songs mike has written.
John. York

I think last night (Scunthorpe) was the best I have ever heard Mike play the songs of The
Alarm. I was very moved.

P Cole

Rise Demos - I'm really enjoying this album. I'm Falling and Break Bread with Me are
two terrific songs. Will the live dvd ever be released in the US?
Thanks, P. Manning

The Resistance Starts Here!

The Resistance Tour hit the ground running in London, swirled into the south
of England and has now struck the north in a whirlwind 'eleven shows in
twelve days'! The longest UK tour ever undertaken by Mike Peters and The
Alarm has already featured some breathtaking performances enthralling Alarm
fans old and new across the length and breadth of England so far. Look out
Scotland and Wales!

The London show began with 'Regeneration' setting the tone for the spirit of
the tour which is all about rock'n roll. The set also included 'High on The
hill' 'Breathe' and 'Burnout Syndrome' alongside classics, 'Unsafe Building'
and The Stand. Kirk Brandon from Spear of Destiny joined The Alarm MMII on
stage for 'Spirit of 76'. On to Southampton , Coventry (a stormer with
Roddy Radiation from The Specials in the audience) and Harlow, with Peters
giving everything in a impassioned performance - evoking memories of the
1987 'Electric Folklore' Tour - particularly during the blistering 'Rescue
Me'. A manic encore featured 'Pretty Vacant' with Peters exiting the stage
and into the crowd, no doubt inspired somewhat by the presence of England
soccer star, Stuart 'Psycho' Pearce in the audience, who was later spotted
hanging out with Peters and the band in the dressing room after the show.

From Southend to Ashton where the sets were opened up in more familiar style
with 'Marching On'. Stoke opened with the much-loved 'Breathe' and featured
the now massive sing-along anthem, '21st Century'. From Stoke to Bradford
where the pace hotted up even more with Mike and the band really starting to
gel and take the whole thing up another gear. New bass player, Tony Barber
from the Buzzcocks has really made his presence felt alongside SLF drummer,
Steve Grantley and 'Chelsea' guitarist, James Stevenson. During 'Where Were
You Hiding', Mike has been introducing each member of the band and sharing
brief anecdotes of his times supporting the Buzzcocks as The Toilets in 1977
in Eric's, Liverpool; seeing Chelsea aged 17 on a Summer holiday in Torquay
and supporting SLF in Newcastle and Glasgow in 1982. The guys have even
managed to perform snatches of tunes by all 3 bands during the show namely
Boredom, Right to Work and Gotta Get Away. Mike's even been heard to play
the guitar intro to 'Alternative Ulster' on his new black Fender Telecaster.

Scunthorpe was particularly special with a fantastic audience spurring the
band on to new heights. Kirk Brandon joined Mike and the band on stage to
perform an encore version of 'Do you believe in the Westworld? quickly
followed by The Stand which has evolved into an extended jam throughout the
tour with songs like Armagideon Time, Bob Marley's Get Up Stand Up and Pete
Wylie's 7 Minutes to Midnight/Come Back , as well as Bob Dylan's Knocking on
Heaven's Door' and even Gabrielle's Rise!

As it says on the poster 'It's about the return of rock'n roll!'

Review: D. Thompson/R. Goddard - followers of the Resistance Tour 2002

* Please note that tickets have been selling fast. Particular hotspots to
note with only few tickets remaining are Middlesborough, Liverpool, Wrexham,
Bristol. You have been warned!

What a fantastic show
I almost forgot how enoyable it is to be squished up against the stage!
Please pass on my thanks to Mike, Kirk and Pete for a great evening.
D.Sore, London

Just had a message from my brother, Toby Miller, he said he bumped into you at the first night of the tour in London. He said it was a fantastic night and with out a doubt it would seem that the old man hasn't lost anything since we first saw them in April '85 at Portsmouth Guild Hall !! It's great to have the box set out with me here in Ghana, although the rest of the office despair at yet another playing of "Where were you Hiding"! Rupert, Ghana

I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the gig at the Nexus club
in Southampton on Thursday night (25th). It really was an excellent night.
A little "snapshot in time" for me was when you were singing the long note
in Breathe (and singing it beautifully), and the light glinted off your
guitar into my eyes. Just one of those memorable little moments in life!

So I suppose I just want to say a massive THANK YOU for all the songs from
68 Guns to everything you've ever sung since. For making music I can feel
as well as hear. And for realising you have fans south of London and
actually coming to Southampton (have loved the gigs you've done at The
Brook - please come back again soon!) L. Parsons

Hi came to the gig last night at Nexus it was great really enjoyed it a lot. T Paskins

Hi Mike, Just to let you know how much i enjoyed the gig in Coventry . Also
enjoyed the other Bands . It was great hearing the Alarm Classics again .
Got back into your music when you supported Big Country on the final fling
tour . Great that your playing Stuart's tribute concert . Have been catching
up on your music and enjoying it ! . My fav song (REGENERATION) good luck
with the rest of the tour & the new album from a new ( old ) fan ! cheers
Ian F.





I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic show at the Sugarmill in Hanley tonight.
Never been much of a SOD fan - but they kicked ass just!
Big Alarm fan - and followed your solo career since then - no disappointment tonight - you guy¹s rocked!
The whole ambiance of the show was wonderful; the feeling behind it - inspirational; the way the two separate bands of fans (ie yours and SODs) ganged together in mutual boogying - was great to watch!
And, just for the record, every time that I have seen you play Spirit of ¹76 - it has bought a tear to my eye and a lump to my throat - tonight was no exception.
Thanks again

KEEP IT REAL
J

May/June 2002

The Alarm remains one of the best concerts I've ever
seen, and this CD pretty much shows why. Live is a
glorious rave-up of the Welsh band's greatest hits
from the 2001-2002 "Second Generation" tour. Frontman
Mike Peters is the only surviving member of the band's
original roster-- Dave Sharp, Nigel Twist and Andy
MacDonald leaving to pursue solo projects after the
release of Raw, the Alarm's last studio album, in
1991. For the most part, though, the new line-up
synchs right in with Peters' punk-injected high-octane
rock and roll, even to the signature Alarm sound of
harmonica and acoustic guitar.

Live albums are a mixed bag, and this one is no
exception. I could do with snappier drums and crisper
percussion, but if "Strength" is sleepier than the
studio cut, "Knife Edge" is sharper; if "The
Deceiver" is duller than on Declaration, the band
drives harder on my favorite Alarm cut, "Absolute
Reality." "Rain in the Summertime" is muddier than the
original, but "Rescue Me" fights hard and takes names.


It's a compliment to Peters' song-writing genius that
all the best songs don't fit on one CD-"Presence of
Love" isn't here at all. Small cavils aside, you can
hear every word on this disc, and the crowd sing-along
adds to the blazing anthem for Welsh independence,
"Sixty-Eight Guns" (one for each of the sixty-eight
districts of Wales). "Live," which is also being
released on DVD, will probably do what live albums do
best: send fans back to the studio albums for renewed
encounters and leave new listeners hungry for more.
Revived, reinvented, recycled-whatever, the Alarm has
always rung true. Now they rock on once more.-GW.

From The Alarm Mailing List:

Read a great Mike Peters Interview on RememberTheEighties.com

You can now listen to streaming audio from all the bands on the Resistance Tour at 21st Century Radio . Tv. This "station" steams using the ultra-efficient Flash 5.0 player, so it is not limited to Real Audio Streams or any other artificial barrier. You will need Flash 5.0 or 6.0 to listen, and there is link on the 21stc Century Radio . TV site to get it.

The M.P.O. Office is struggling under the weight of rush bookings for the Gathering. Still 8 months away - but to M.P.O. members, The Gathering has become a very important weekend in the calendar. In the first few days of sales, over 300 tickets have been sold!! Remember - if you would like to attend the Saturday Night Infamous Aftershow Party - book early!!

Click to order tickets online

Read a great Guitarist Interview With Mike Peters .

Seventeen's first and only 7" single, "Don't Let Go" b/w"Bank Holiday Weekend" will be released by Vinyl Japan. Click on the link to see all the details.

North Wales Conference Centre
Llandudno
Wales

24th-25th January 2003

Est. 1992
Weekend ticket Price £30 plus £1 booking fee

Order your tickets now
Tel 011 44 (0)1745 571571

Book before June 2002
To guarantee free entry to aftershow party

Dave Sharp
Dave Sharp will play the "Rock The City" benefit next Sturday, April 13th. Dave will play with and the original BARNSTORMER'S (who backed Dave on the album "Hard Travelin'"(with special guest drummer George Mazur from The GODFATHERS).

The venue that will host this years show will be The SAINT, located on Main
Street in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
The date / Saturday April 13th.
Doors at 7:30/till late
Tickets $12
To reserve tickets, contact: tickets@thesaintnj.com
Tel:# 732-775-9144
Leave information and a confirmation will be forwarded.
This years charity show will benefit the EMPATHY FOUNDATION.

Nigel Twist

Nigel Phillips (AKA Nigel Buckle, Nigel Twist) is one of several investigators featured on the PBS documentary "Presumed Guilty: Tales Of Public Defenders". While the show is local to San Francisco, there is a good a chance it will be picked-up by other PBS stations. You can view information about the show at the KQED Web site. The acutla page that Nigel is fetaured on is here.

Rock' n' roll is a music that for its own nature constantly accelerate, trying to reach and hold time until its action is cancelled: to its presence entire hymns turn out less perceivable than a full-on rythm section playing a 4/4 beat.

At the "Bloom" of Mezzago, near Milan, we had the umpteenth confirmation of this illusory power with the reincarnation of the Alarm, the legendary group of the 80s. Both the audience and the band found themselves involved in apparently impossible time-restart considering the oblivion that previously wrapped the Welsh band. But the saving ritual of rock found no difficulty in reproducing, thanks to the strength of its own memories.

****/*
“The resistance starts here!” according to a mainfesto penned by Pete “Wah!” Wylie. “It’s about the return of rock’nroll…real songs, not manufactured pap that’s more soap-popera than it’s Elvis.” Helping to turn this classic specimen of Wylie bravado into action are Mike Peters (formerly of The Alarm), Kirk “Spear of Destiny” Brandon and ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock, collectively known as Dead Men Walking. It could have been preposterous or even tragic, but guess what – it’s not bad at all.

Between them, this Crosby Stills Nash and Young of post-punk can boast a catalogue of hits and for an encore they squirt some extra kerosene on the bonfire with a sprinkling of cover versions, including The Clash’s Stay Free and a rousing finale of All or Nothing. But what keeps the Dead Men Walking is they way they have managed to pool what could have been a mis-matched bag of material and make it sound as if it was supposed to fit together.

It is also a way of ensuring that nobody outstays their welcome. A whole evening of The Alarm’s breastbeating anthems may have had the punters stampeding to the exits, but hearing Peters’ versions of The Stand, 68 Guns and Spirit of 76, decked out with vocal harmonies and boosted by Wylie’s authoritative lead guitar, was enough to remind you of what the band were about without drowning you in melodrama. Wylie’s big moments – Sinful, Come Back and a particularly roof-raising Story of the Blues – retained their traditional Anfield swagger, but the gig’s collective nature curbed his tendancy to let his outsized personality swamp the room. The surprise of the night was Kirk Brandon, whose songs were short on scarf waving exuberance but exuded an intense, smouldering quality. Westworld was a throbbing drone and he sang Young Men with a gritted-teeth intensity that dared you to defy him.

Glen Matlock’s songs aren’t so recognisable as the others, but the combo’s thundering version of Pretty Vacant was an apt reminder of his role in the Sex Pistols before the airbrush of time tried to erase his contribution. “We’re standing up to count and be counted!” raved Wylie. It’s worth a try.

They took the stage like four old prize-fighters wheeled out again for
another shot at the title.
How refreshing then that 'Dead Men Walking' can still punch their weight.

The concept is simple. A quartet of ex-punk stars- Sex Pistol Glen Matlock,
Kirk Brandon of Theatre of Hate, The Alarm's Mike Peters and Pete Wylie of
The Mighty Wah! - recreate the songs which made them famous.

With such a rich back catalogue this show was always going to be a bit
special.

Peters kicked off with a rousing version of 'The Stand' and followed up
with 'Spirit of '76' and '68 Guns'.

Matlock still has that cocky punk swagger and weighed in with 'Burning
Sound', a song from his 'Rich Kids' era.

While Wylie cranked up the passion levels on spirited Wah hits, 'Comeback',
'The Story of the Blues' and 'Sinful'.

If anything, it was Brandon who quietly stole the show. In terms of chart
glories, his work with both 'Theatre of Hate' and 'Spear of Destiny' wasn't
quite as high profile as his cohorts.

But on great songs like 'Young Man', 'Never Take Me Alive' and the immortal
'Do you Believe in the Westworld?' he was a revelation.

The raw emotion in his vocals and the dexterity of his acoustic guitar
playing - plus the overt political edge in is work- proved a potent package.
The gig wasn't simply a trip down memory lane either. Matlock showed he's
lost none of his flair for crafting a good hook in new song, 'On Something'.

And Wylie's recent composition - 'Heart as Big as Liverpool' - is a real
modern classic.

No doubt, 'Dead Men Walking' started out as a bit of a laugh after a boozy
night. It's evolved into much more... and such great songs make it one of
Wylie's better ideas.

The Dead Men are packing out venues on the UK Tour which bodes really well for the forthcoming Resistance Tour!!! In Glasgow, at the sold out King Tuts, DMW were joined by Bruce Watson from Big Country and Daniel Wylie (no relation!) from 'Cosmic Rough Riders' ('Revolution in the Summertime'). The Dead Men played a thrilling version of 'Stay Free' by The Clash'. The whole DMW show has been enhanced by the addition of Modern English drummer, Roy Martin. Modern English supported The Alarm in the USA in 1986.

After speaking with Bruce Watson, Mike Peters has confirmed that he will be taking part in the 'Stuart Adamson Tribute' at Glasgow Barrowlands on May 31st. Details to follow.

www.tm3am.com

TUESDAY MORNING 3 A.M.
a column by andre salles
3/20/02

I don't care what anyone says, the Alarm was a great band.

The Welsh quartet was around for 10 years (1981-1991), and in that time,
they never got the respect they were due, but by all accounts, they never
achieved the height of their capabilities, either. They were always unfairly
and unfavorably compared to U2, whom they shared a stage with on numerous
tours. The sonic similarities are there to support such an argument - it's
possible that both bands discovered punk, reverbed pop and American
traditional blues-rock at roughly the same time in their respective careers,
but it's unlikely. The way the bands explored those influences, however, was
vastly different.

The real difference lies in the way both bands approached their own passion.
While U2 has long been about giving the people a voice to look up to, the
Alarm was always about being amongst the people, and singing with their
voice. While their five albums are all wildly different from one another,
that philosophy remained constant.

Lead singer Mike Peters has carried that torch through his solo career. He's
a successful artist in his native Wales, although he could walk down any
street in America anonymously. The passionate fury of his voice is, along
with Dave Sharp's blistering guitar work, the defining characteristic of the
Alarm, and the man's commitment to his fans is legendary. There's no other
way to explain the existence of the Alarm 2000 box set, a phenomenally
comprehensive document of a band few have ever heard. The Alarm's sales
never warranted such a retrospective from their label (or any label, for
that matter), so Peters took it upon himself.

What he's done with this set should be the blueprint for boxed compendiums.
I have never spent so much money on any one piece of music - in United
States dollars, the Alarm 2000 set is $180. That, my friends, is an absolute
bargain. It's almost as if someone handed Peters a handbook on creating the
perfect box set. Here's what he did:

First, include every song from every album. Box sets are notorious for
mixing and matching, providing random samplings of an artist's career. This
is crap. If an artist's work is worth releasing in a deluxe set, then most
likely the albums are meant to be heard as a whole. Expensive box sets
shouldn't be marketing tools, they should be lasting monuments. You
shouldn't have to seek out the albums afterwards to get the complete
picture.

Hence, all 67 tracks from the Alarm's career are present, in digitally
remastered form. Each album appears on its own CD as well - none of that
non-chronological scattershot technique you find with most sets of this
nature. That alone would have been enough to get me excited about this
project, but that's just the first step.

Next, Peters filled out each CD with unreleased tracks, live versions,
acoustic renditions, b-sides and more. Every album here benefits from this
insight into the process and overall sound of the band during the period in
which it was recorded. Most notably, the self-titled EP that launched their
career in 1981 has been expanded to 22 tracks and more than 77 minutes,
offering a full measure of the Alarm in their early stages. Even the
six-track EP Electric Folklore Live has been transformed into a true live
album, with 14 tracks over 78 minutes. All told, you get 128 tracks, nearly
double the running orders of the original albums.

After all that, you'd never expect that there would be an additional eighth
CD of rarities, but there it is. Rare Tracks includes 18 previously
unreleased goodies, and offers another 78 minutes of music. All together,
the Alarm 2000 collection serves up 146 songs, many of which appear in
extended, previously unreleased versions. But of course, that's not all.

What would a set like this be without detailed liner notes? These are more
detailed than most, offering a complete history of the band from the first
rehearsal to the final show, most often in the words of the four band
members. (Besides Peters and Sharp, the Alarm included bassist Eddie
MacDonald and drummer Nigel Twist.) Each album comes with its own extensive
booklet, including the original cover art to each and lyrics to every song.
Plus, since Peters dispensed with the original running orders on these discs
(sequencing them in the order they should have appeared in the first place),
each booklet offers information to program your CD player to duplicate the
original sequences. All of this comes packaged in a deceptively small travel
case, with sleeves for each disc and booklet.

But just you wait, because I haven't mentioned the coolest thing of all.
When you order the Alarm 2000 set (only available at www.thealarm.com), you
can select your favorite song, write a dedication, and Peters will perform
that song and dedicate it to you on a ninth CD. This is the ultimate
extension of the Alarm's commitment to their fans. Peters swears that he
performs each of these requests individually, no matter how many people ask
for the same song.

I asked for "No Frontiers," a soaring anthem off the Change album from 1989,
which has always been my favorite Alarm song. I requested no dedication,
because I'm uncomfortable with the concept of music being tied to an
individual, or of imposing that much of myself on Peters' art. But I thought
of one, and I mentally say it to myself whenever I play the disc. Peters
performs "No Frontiers" like a world-weary songwriter looking back and
trying to capture the youthful innocence of a forgotten time. His solo
acoustic version trades the original's ambition for an earthly realism, and
somehow it suits the way I hear the song now, more than 10 years since I
first fell in love with it. Plus, he kind of screws it up at the end, which
is nifty.

Despite all my concerns about branding Peters' version of "No Frontiers"
with my own words, I confess a certain reverent thrill upon pressing play
for the first time, and knowing that I was only the second person alive to
hear that particular rendition. While that's faded over time, I still get
tingles when I hear it, and that feeling alone justifies the price. It's the
perfect icing on such a huge cake.

The Alarm 2000 set is exhausting to plow through, but ultimately more
exciting than anything I've bought since the Choir's similar comprehensive
box, Never Say Never. It starts with both sides of the band's first
self-financed single from 1981, the ragged acoustic "Unsafe Building" and
even more ragged electric "Up For Murder." Amazingly, the passion is there
from the start, with Peters' often erratic voice riding on pure emotion and
Sharp's wrist-breaking acoustics setting the tone. The first disc jumps
through five early demos before plunging into the meat of the eponymous EP
and a seven-song mini-concert. (It's a startling feature of this set that
you often get multiple versions of songs you've never heard before, like
"Reason 41," which appears in demo, live and studio renditions, but never
made an album.)

The Alarm is an angry, rough recording of anthems and rebel songs,
especially the charmingly naive "Marching On." The Alarm was a band that
knew the value of a good "whoa-oh" in the chorus, something they likely
nicked from the Clash, and that fist-pumping stridency reached its apex with
one of the band's best-known songs, "Sixty-Eight Guns," which appears in
demo and single versions on this first disc. Despite its thunderous chorus
("Sixty-eight guns will never die, sixty-eight guns our battle cry"), the
group's later maturity is hinted at even here in the plaintive middle
section: "Through all the raging glory of the years, we never once thought
of the fears for what we'd do, when the battle cry was over..."

"Sixty-Eight Guns" made its full appearance on the Alarm's first album,
Declaration, in 1984. Produced by Alan Shacklock, this record smoothed out
the ragged edges while leaving the rough intensity of the EP. Performed
almost entirely on furiously played acoustic guitars, Declaration is a slice
of folk-punk that feels like a flower coming into bloom. (The Alarm's
trademark symbol, which appeared on every album cover and on the cover of
this box, was an exploding blood-red poppy.) It manages to be diverse and
unified at once, another trait they learned from the Clash, and it delves
deeper into the spiritual side of the band's rebellious nature.

Declaration jumps from the finger-pointing rage of "Where Were You Hiding
When the Storm Broke" to the menacing throb of sniper tale "Third Light" to
the crunchy electric blues of "Howling Wind," but if any one song defines
this period of the Alarm's history, it's the epic "Blaze of Glory." It's a
twisty number that incorporates military drums, trumpets and banjos
seamlessly, fades off into a mournful fanfare midway through, and comes
charging back for Dave Sharp's rousing finale. With lyrics about picking
yourself up and learning how to fight back, it may be the ultimate rebel
song.

This disc also includes seven unreleased contenders for the album, including
the bluesy "Reason 41" and the surprisingly pop "The Chant Has Just Begun."
You also get covers of traditional folk tune "Bells of Rhymney" and Woody
Guthrie's "Bound for Glory," as well as the single version of the song the
band released with visions of stardom, "Absolute Reality." It's a precursor
to one of the most consistent Alarm albums, 1985's Strength.

The band went electric for their second full-length, and they wrote some of
their best songs. The title track is a standout, as is the epic "Spirit of
'76," the pure punk "Deeside," the sweet "Walk Forever By My Side" and the
masterful, heartbreaking "The Day the Ravens Left the Tower." You get a
couple of unreleased cuts ("Majority" being the best), a roughshod electric
version of later standout "One Step Closer to Home," and a quartet of live
tracks, but mostly, the highlights are the 10 fantastic, invigorating songs
that made up Strength. Some maintain they never got better than this.

While I can't join in that opinion, I will concede that they sort of lost
their way on 1987's Eye of the Hurricane, but since it s the first Alarm
album I heard, I have a sentimental attachment to it. Eye is the most
altered of the discs, since it turns out that the band was only partly to
blame for the way the original release sounded. This album found the band
caught between trying to make a hit record and an Alarm record, and the
results were predictably strained. Synthesizers and drum machines took over,
especially on pseudo-hit "Rain in the Summertime," and the band sounded
unconvinced that this was the right way to go.

Well, surprise surprise, the version of Eye I'd been listening to all these
years is a poorly edited mix the label foisted on the group, with the
guitars mostly removed or subdued. The Alarm 2000 set corrects this blight
by offering the mix the band gave the label, intact. And it's a bit of a
revelation - "Newtown Jericho" now sounds like the anti-anthem it was always
meant to, "Summertime" is more of a full band groove than a computerized
one, and "Shelter" cranks up the electric guitars over sections that were
once just acoustic. Sure, the songs are still poppier than they'd been,
especially the ballad "Presence of Love," but the sound is less tentative.
Finally, Eye sounds like an Alarm album, like the band is as invested in it
as they are the rest of their catalog.

The Alarm were a bit of a rarity in the '80s: a great live band that also
made great records. The stage, however, is where they shone, and Electric
Folklore, expanded to a full document of the Alarm's stint with U2 on the
Joshua Tree tour, is the proof. I'd almost recommend new listeners checking
this out first, because this is one hell of a live album. I'd always been
bothered by the sequencing of the original release, and apparently Peters
has been too, because he corrects every one of my concerns. Rightful opener
"Strength" now kicks off the set, "Blaze of Glory" nests comfortably in the
middle, and the one-two punch of extended renditions of "Rescue Me" and
"Spirit of '76" now appear in the showstopper positions they always should
have. In many ways, this is the height of the collection.

Fresh from the biggest tour of their lives and determined not to make the
same mistakes they made with Eye, the band huddled down with producer Tony
Visconti and in 1989 released their finest work, the lengthy Change. Here
they explored American blues and English pop, traditional folk and Welsh
choral arrangements. It's a stylistic departure, and yet the semi-hit "Sold
Me Down the River" sounds like a direct descendant of "Howling Wind," off of
Declaration. Change lives up to its title, but it progresses nicely from
what came before. Most impressive, though, is Peters himself, who finally
learned to harness that powerful voice of his to suit the various styles.

Peters has called this album "the double album that could have been," and
here he gets the chance to rectify that a bit. Many songs on Change were
edited down to fit on one piece of vinyl, but the original versions appear
here, including Dave Sharp's wonderful jam outro to "No Frontiers." Three
unreleased tracks join the 14 originals, and if you've never heard the
album, you'd be hard-pressed to pick them out. They're just as good as the
album tracks. Change concludes with one of the band's finest moments, the
fully orchestrated "A New South Wales," performed with a Welsh male voice
choir.

In essence, Change was the band's swan song. Their final album, Raw,
released in 1991, is not so much an album as it is a slipshod collection of
the final studio tracks the Alarm recorded. Dave Sharp took over vocals on
several tracks, heralding his upcoming solo career. The recording is, in
fact, quite raw, considering most of it was done live and self-produced. The
original album consisted of three new Peters tracks, three new Sharp songs,
three old numbers the band had been playing for years, and a cover of Neil
Young's "Rockin' in the Free World."

But as released here, Raw takes its place as the band's sad farewell. Peters
bumps the running order up to 15 tracks, including two that were recorded
for the best-of collection Standards. With the full picture, the lyrics to
"Moments in Time" take on resonance as a wave goodbye. As a capper on their
career, the band recorded updated versions of both sides of their first
single ("Unsafe Building" and "Up For Murder"), and covered John Lennon's
wistful "Happy X-Mas (War is Over)." The final track, and most
heartbreaking, is a newly discovered recording on "the last few inches of
tape on the last reel of the last recording session," an acoustic duet
between Sharp and Peters on "Walk Forever By My Side." Rarely has a band
made their final album so final.

And the Rare Tracks disc? All intriguing stuff, especially for the longtime
fan. My favorites are an impromptu acoustic version of "Absolute Reality," a
demo for an unreleased song called "Firing Line," a live version of "Rivers
to Cross" with a jamming violin player, and a hushed and caustic acoustic
reading of Lennon's "Working Class Hero." Rare Tracks ends with an acoustic
version of "No Frontiers," which, when paired with Peters' version on my
dedication disc, adds a nice symmetry to the whole set.

It's rare that a band will offer up such a complete version of itself, with
none of the edges smoothed out. The Alarm 2000 set is the ultimate example
of a band having nothing to hide. If you think, as I do, of musical entities
as living, breathing organisms that change and grow over time, then a set
like this is a dream come true, the total evolution of a musical entity in a
single box. Most importantly in my mind, a set like this, so lovingly and
painstakingly crafted, signals that the music of the Alarm is as important
to Mike Peters as it is to me and thousands of others, and thanks to his
efforts and commitment, Alarm fans new and old will always be able to enjoy
it. So thanks, Mike.

"There are no frontiers
That we can't cross tonight
There are no borderlines
To keep us apart..."

See you in line Tuesday morning.

Tickets for the Resistance Tour can now be purchased direct from www.tourtickets.tv or by calling 01745 571577. The tickets are on sale 2 weeks early especially for all Alarm, Mighty Wah! and Spear of Destiny fans. This is your chance to beat the rush before the tour is advertised nationally via 'Q' Magazine, 'NME,', 'Mojo', 'Ice Magazine', 'Uncut' etc.etc.


All tickets for every show are priced £14 plus £1.50 booking fee (includes p&p). Please note this is an extra speciall reduced booking/postal fee as the Tour has been organised, promoted and operated by the artists and their management directly. 100% independent

So what are your waiting for... The Resistance starts here!

www.tourtickets.tv (24 hour)
01745 571577 (currently operates between 11am and 4pm/ 24 hour message facility)

News
The Alarm 2002, Spear Of Destiny, The Mighty Wah!

Resistance Tour 2002!

3 Headliners, Playing some of the greatest rock and roll of any decade. This promises to be the THE tour of year, if not the new millenium.

Video
View Mike Peters' Introduction to The Resistance Tour
Quicktime

Manifesto
THE RESISTANCE STARTS HERE!

'All 3 bands... all electric shows... THE RESISTANCE STARTS HERE!'
- A MESSAGE FROM MIKE PETERS, PETE WYLIE AND KIRK BRANDON....
Please tune in Monday for exciting news of the Resistance Tour!



THE RESISTANCE STARTS HERE!

IT'S ABOUT THE RETURN OF ROCK AND ROLL

SONGS ABOUT SOMETHING - New songs great songs your songs... REAL SONGS
Not manufactured pap that's more soap popera than its ELVIS
BY-THE-PEOPLE-OF-THE-PEOPLE-FOR-THE-PEOPLE-ROCK-AND-ROLL

It's about the music not the marketplace
no accountants. no marketing men .no stylists .no lawyers. no a+r.
JUST a simple truth: friends and brothers and sisters doing it for the right
reasons
honest unspoiled beautiful genuine SONGS played with PASSION!
PROPER GUITARS! GREAT VOICES! REAL BANDS!

AND it's 100% INDEPENDENT

it's about offering an alternative thats not part of the 'alternative
industry...
we're taking sides... keeping the promise... yeah just when you thought
music didn't matter anymore...
YES the resistance rocks...
...and truth is absolute

TABLOIDS - and so the poor unsuspecting PUBLIC sell POP AS a COMMODITY -
THEY DONT WANT US.
WOO HOO!!!WE'RE LUCKY. WE CAN DO OUR STUFF WITHOUT all the bullshit, JUST
LIKE WE ALWAYS DREAMED

we are the underground now
the true underground...

and we don't expect everyone to like what we do - that's not the point of
the resistance;
in fact one thing we 3 have in common is we've never done things for easy
approval -
we do things because we like things, or BECAUSE ITS RIGHT!
It's NOT nostalgiadesperationconvenientrevival - ITS LIFE! Ongoing glorious
hardandsoft LIFE!!!
FOR ALL THE PEOPLE WHO THE 'BIZ' IGNORES RIGHT NOW

THE REVOLUTION STARTS TODAY!

EVERYONE'S BEEN SUCKERED IN TO THEIR WAY OF THINKING, OF JUDGING SUCCESS BY
SALES,
BY MEDIA INTEREST/COVERAGE - THAT'S COMMERCE AND THAT'S BOLLOCKS!

YOU DONT HAVE TO BE UNIVERSALLY LOVED TO COUNT,
ESPECIALLY IN THESE SAD POP IDOL/HELLO/BIG BROTHER SUCKING TIMES
AND WE'RE STANDING UP TO COUNT AND BE COUNTED

WHO CHECKS A BIRTH CERTIFICATE WHEN THEY GO TO BUY A RECORD? YOU DESERVE
HEARSAY!

we're not pretending to be kids or trying to recapture our youth -
we're grown men doing what we always tried to do -
reflecting our lives and the lives and experiences of our peers through rock
and roll

IF THAT'S AN ISSUE STICK TO STEPS STOOPID!
AND TELL DYLAN AND STRUMMER ON YOUR WAY OUT.
IT'S ALL PREJUDICE...

YES.
WE'RE THE UNDERGROUND NOW


I still believe in the power of songs...
I still believe in the power of soul....
I still believe in the power of love...
I STILL BELIEVE in ROCK AND ROLL


THE RESISTANCE STARTS HERE!

KIRK BRANDON MIKE PETERS PETE WYLIE


Copyright pete wylie 2002

Tour Postcard




Tour Dates
APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2002 - RESISTANCE TOUR

wed 24 LONDON GARAGE

thu 25 SOUTHAMPTON NEXUS

fri 26 COVENTRY JAIL HOUSE

sat 27 HARLOW SQUARE

sun 28 SOUTHEND CHINNERYS

mon 29 OFF

tue 30 ASHTON WITCHWOOD

wed 1 STOKE SUGAR MILL

thu 2 BRADFORD PENNINGTONS LIVE

fri 3 BLACKBURN WINDSOR SUITE

sat 4 SCUNTHORPE BATH HALL

sun 5 LEEDS COCKPIT

mon 6 NOTTINGHAM ROCK CITY

tue 7 OFF

wed 8 TBC

thu 9 LIVERPOOL LOMAX

fri 10 WREXHAM C. STATION

sat 11 BRISTOL FLEECE

sun 12 SWANSEA PATTI PAVILLON

mon 13 OFF

tue 14 BEDFORD ESQUIRES

wed 15 SHEFFIELD BOARDWALK

thu 16 YORK FIBBERS

fri 17 GLASGOW KING TUTS

sat 18 ABERDEEN GLOW 303

sun 19 DUNDEE FAT SAMS

mon 20 OFF

tue 21 NORTHAMPTON ROADMENDERS

wed 22 MANCHESTER BAND ON THE WALL

thu 23 NEWPORT TG'S

fri 24 SALISBURY ARTS CENTRE

sat 25 LEICESTER CHARLOTTE

sun 26 OFF

mon 27 OFF

tue 28 PLYMOUTH COOPERAGE

wed 29 FROME CHEESE AND GRAIN

thu 30 COLCHESTER ARTS CENTRE

fri 31 TBC

sat 1 OXFORD ZODIAC

sun 2 WOLVERHAMPTON ROBIN 2

Just what you've all been waiting for... a new album in progress…

Just to get you in the mood for the mass of touring ahead... here's a few recent thoughts from MPO members...


Just seen the show at Wolves Wulfrun Hall and wanted to congratulate you on a fantastic evenings entertainment! Great to see the live dvd,hear the stories and listen to the songs both old and new.Highlight for the evening for me had to be the finale,a rousing rendition of "Blaze Of Glory" with all the audience on their feet singing their hearts out,an emotional moment for me and obviously for you because you were left speechless for the first time all evening! Once again thanks for a great night and hope to see you back at the Wulfrun for an electric show in the new year. K. Bailey

I just wanted to drop a quick note.I know that I am on the end of the bandwagon, but I've just rec'd my Alarm Collection. I am working my way up through the years, just as I came to your music the first time. I can only say, fantastic!
I have always puzzled at how much deeper Alarm songs reached than the normal punk faire. Don't get me wrong, I am and always will be a punk at heart; the Pistols, Ramones, Clash and Buzzcocks still hold positions of honor on my record rack. But none of them reached the Alarm's artistic plateau.
I so look forward to seeing what the future holds - maybe some more Coloursound, maybe even some US dates? So long as the Alarm never dies in your heart, I'll gladly accompany you (somewhere back in the caravan).
God bless you! Peace, Mark D. Houston, Texas


hi mike just thought id mail you to congratulate you on an absolutely
amazing concert last night in perth. your show certainly brought back loads
of memories for me being brought up an slf fanatic i thought when they split
up there would be a huge hole left but when they played their last gig in
glasgow appolo it was only you guys that came along the rest is history. keep up the good work
rob

Dear Mike,
I just picked up an import of The Best Of The Alarm and Mike Peters and just
wanted to say thanks for the music....this CD really brings back fond
memories. It's amazing how fresh & current The Alarm music still sounds
(Spirit Of '76, still kills me). Please add me to your e-mail list and
please notify me next time you are playing in NYC. J. Epstein.



Saw you at Bilston & W'hampton. Both great nights, apart from I was not wearing my glasses at W'hampton so did not get to see any of the photo's!! I finally managed to get my photo took with you in Bilston, the picture came out great, apart from the fact I give a good impression of a school child meeting their hero.
Look foward to the Gathering!


JUST LET YOU KNOW THAT THE SHOW AT DERBY WAS
REALLY GOOD,LOTS OF INTRESTING PICS AND STORIES.
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE DVD AND NEW LP NEXT YEAR,
IT WAS ALSO NICE TO MEET YOU AFTER THE SHOW,
THE ALT STRENGTH CD IS BRILL. CHEERS, NEIL.

Brilliant atmosphere, great to hear MP in good voice and some of the early
Alarm tales were excellent. see you at gathering'03

Mike,
Thanks for the gig in Wolves which was superb. The show from start to finish
was excellent. The story behind the group and songs really added depth to
'old' favourites and the songs you played just shone. What a talent!
Please come round again. This was a really refreshing gig and a brilliant way
to spend a night and feel "a teenager" again!

Hi there! I was at the recent Mike Peters Gig at The
Ropery in Sunderland!!!!Well what can i say what a
fantastic night me and my brother had!
Thanks L. Davidson

Read a review of The Alarm Greatest Hits Live @ popmatter.com here.

"ROCK THE CITY" is Back!!!
In Association with CONCERTS EAST Productions and The Asbury Park Press

Preparations are nearly complete for the 2'nd annual "ROCK THE CITY"
Children's Charity show in New Jersey U.S.A.
The line-up and venue are as follows:
DAVE SHARP (from the ALARM) and the original BARNSTORMER'S
(with special guest drummer George Mazur from The GODFATHERS).
Also, reunited legendary New Jersey rockers The BLASS,
New Jersey's own BRUCE TUNKLE with full band,
BOBBY STRANGE
and brand new New Jersey based band "APRIL"
These have all been confirmed. And never underestimate the surprise guests.
The venue that will host this years show will be The SAINT, located on Main
Street in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
The date / Saturday April 13th.
Doors at 7:30/till late
Tickets $12
To reserve tickets, contact: tickets@thesaintnj.com
Tel:# 732-775-9144
Leave information and a confirmation will be forwarded.
This years charity show will benefit the EMPATHY FOUNDATION.

For more information about this charity, visit: www.empathyfoundation.com

Alarm Fan Rob Montes is putting together a Live365 Site that plays Alarm/Mike Peters music continuously. Rob is just getting started, but so far it looks impressive. Take a look (listen)at http://www.live365.com/stations/291140

On 31st January, Mike Peters arrived at the "Teatro Astra" in S. Giovanni , Verona to perform an extremely special concert with an 8 piece Italian String section led by first violinist, Nik Manzan.

Steve Allen Jones (former keyboard player of The Alarm) had been invited by Italian Promoter, Lorenzo Bedini to write the scores for eleven Alarm songs:

The Stand

Unsafe Building

The Deceiver

Permanence in Change

Strength

Walk Forever

No Frontiers

Rain in the Summertime

Spirit of 76

Blaze of Glory

68 Guns

Steve had worked on the string arrangements back in Wales, placing great emphasis on constructing the arrangements around the vocals and string parts. Consequently, the Alarm songs have taken on a new life of their own.

The evening opened dramatically with a capacity crowd assembled in the beautiful Teatro Astra. Mike and the 8 piece string section sat illuminated by white light in the pitch black theatre. The sense of anticiaption lay heavy in the air as many committed Italian fans had travelled far and wide for this momentous occasion. As the first chord of The Stand was struck, the magic of The Alarm melodies wove themselves around the awed audience.

The string section was made up of 4 violins, 2 violas and 2 cellos, led by Nik Manzan from well known Italian Acoustic Rock Band, S'pja. Nik himself played a haunting solo on Spirit of 76 and the crowd were brought to a standing ovation after the achingly beautiful rendition of No Frontiers. This version struck a special chord in the hearts of many Italians when Mike spoke of the 'Change' in Europe back in 1989 which originally inspired him to compose New Frontiers. Here in 2002 the song permeated new meaning with the arrival of the Euro, determining change and new frontiers, once again.

The concert closed with a standing ovation and the tumultous applause encouraged Mike to finish the concert with an inspiring orchestral '68 Guns'.

Italy, Jan 31st 2002


Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

Mike Peters' 'Tune Teams' was such a success the first time around, that the half hour programme is being repeated this Friday on BBC1 Wales at the excellent slot of 7pm. This is your chance to watch the writing and recording process of a brand new Mike Peters' song, 'To the End', together with bandmates, Glen Matlock, Steve Grantley, Pete Wylie and Kirk Brandon.

Updated:

---------------
Links to MP3's of the interview:
Air check
Segment #1
Includes an interview plus Sold Me Down The River Live
Segment #2
Includes and Interview plus Rain In The Summertime Live

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

Nina Blackwood (an early MTV DJ, made her name in the 80s), is host to a weekly 3-hour syndicated talk/music show, and this weekend (Jan. 26-27) the show features Mike Peters & The Alarm. The show's name is "Nina Blackwood Absolutely 80s".

The show runs in over 100 markets, and some outlets run on the 26th, some on the 27th. In some markets, like Los Angeles, the outlets are different from radio: DMX Cable or via the internet at DMXMUSIC.com (the show airs daily - at different times... schedule needs to be checked online).


Steve's note: A Quick check of the DMX web site showed that cable companies like Adelphia use DMX as their "music channels". For instnace, Adelphia in L.A. has DMX on channles 401-445 of their digital service.




(For more information please contact- www.ninablackwood.com)

Nina's Biography

AFTER FIVE WILDLY SUCCESSFUL YEARS AS THE FIRST MTV VJ, NINA SIGNED AN UNPRECEDENTED DUAL SHOW CONTRACT WITH PARAMOUNT, ANCHORING HER OWN WEEKLY "ROCK REPORT" ON ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, AND CO-HOSTING TV’s AWARD WINNING "SOLID GOLD". HER POPULARITY LED TO BBC, EUROPEAN AND US NETWORK AND/OR FILM APPEARANCES SUCH AS: "LIVE AID"; "THE BRITISH PHONOGRAPH AWARDS"; "THE MONTREUX ROCK FESTIVAL"; "FARM AID"; PARTS IN ABC'S "IT'S YOUR MOVE"; EVEN IN FEATURES LIKE WB'S "RAT BOY", DIRECTED BY SONDRA LOCKE, AND CO-STARRING IN DISNEY'S "ROCK'N'ROLL MOM ".

ABOUT THREE YEARS AGO, NINA'S SYNDICATED RADIO PROGRAMS, "ABSOLUTELY80s" (3 HOURS ON WEEKENDS) AND "ABSOLUTELY80s SPOTLIGHT" (WEEKDAYS) WENT ON THE AIR, KICKING OFF THE MAJOR NEW INTEREST IN BOTH THE MUSIC AND THE LIFESTYLE OF THE EIGHTIES DECADE. BEGINNING IN OCTOBER OF 2K THE SHOWS BEGAN BEING DISTRIBUTED NATIONALY VIA THE DICK CLARK CO-OWNED UNITED STATIONS RADIO NETWORKS, (212-869-1111).

Happy Listening!
Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

We now have 5 classic Alarm Television appearances available online for you viewing pleasure. You will need Real Player to view these. There is a link to get Real Player on the Listen page.

Watch these while you can. We are not sure how long we will be able to host them.

Television

American Bandstand (1984) The Alarm Appear on American Bandstand in 1984 (for the second time).Along with short interviews with an overly enthusiastic Dick Clark,they lip-sych to "Marching On" and "68 Guns".

Cutting Edge #1 (1984) The Alarm Appear on MTV's "The Cutting Edge" in 1984. This appearance includesinterviews, acoustic performances, and the entire video for "The Chant Has Just Begun"

UK TV, 1985 (1985) The Alarm Appear on UK TV is Early 1985, playing Live. Live versions of "Majority" (with WE lyrics), and "Where WereYou hiding When The Storm Broke" are played.

Cutting Edge #2 (1985) The Alarm Appear on MTV's "The Cutting Edge" in 1985. Includes interviews and live footage from The Alarm's Nov. 1985 show at Cal State Fullerton

North American TV, 1985 (1985) The Alarm Appear on North American TV in late 1985, or early 1986. Short interviews and commentary are interspersed with the videos for "68 Guns" and "Strength".

We soon hope to have our 100+ stations listed on the website for people to be able to find the show in their area. But besides our affiliate stations, Absolutely 80s can also be heard on DMX Cable. For those who don't get dmx cable, the show can be heard every day online at dmxmusic.com. There is a schedule there that shows the different times it airs in their Listening Room. We get listeners from all over the world via this route.

In order to help Absolute 80s, please can you also call your favorite radio stations and encourage them to pick up Absolutely 80s in your market!

Thanks!

Nina Blackwood's Absolutely 80s

Nigel Twist sopke on the Alarm Yahoo Group today about several things. The first was about Gathering 10 and Gathering 11:
"Dave and Mike had spoken about getting together for the last gathering but
due to studio constraints Dave couldn't make it over. However, both Dave and
myself have mulled over the idea of The Alarm playing at the next gathering,
watch this space."

The next item was about Twist being on PBS this Spring:

"Onto other things....my office was filmed by a documentary
team last year (www.skylightpictures.com) and they have put together film
that will be broadcast on PBS April 5th 2002 @ 9:00pm. There's a special
screening at the Castro theater in San Francisco on March 10, 2002 @ 2:45pm if
any of you are in town at the time. I had a camera crew following me around
the city while I went about my business, so if any of you ever wondered what
I do tune in for a looksee. The websites for skylight and PBs will be
updated with information on the movie in early March."

Just when you thought the "hardest working man in rock" would be chilling
out on that holiday isle, Mike Peters once again defies belief and is back
out on the road with his rock'n roll gang, DEAD MEN WALKING:

DEAD MEN WALKING ARE:
MIKE PETERS : KIRK BRANDON :
GLEN MATLOCK :PETE WYLIE

"standing only" the tour 2002

A BRAND NEW SHOW with all the hits and much much more

MARCH

mon 18th march leeds new roscoe

tue 19th march glasgow king tuts

wed 20th march hull wellington

thu 21st march macclesfield bar cuba

fri 22nd march liverpool lomax

sat 23rd march wrexham central station

tue 26th march london underworld

wed 27th march oxford zodiac

thu 28th march leicester charlotte

fri 29th march bristol fleece

sat 30th march manchester witchwood

sun 31st march worcester marrs bar

The Gathering 10 was a huge success. Please visit www.thealarm.com for all
the latest glowing reviews and feedback.

Plans are now in motion for Gatheirng 11. All will be revealed at the
beginning of March...

The MPO office will be closed for reorganisational purposes until Monday
January 28th .The office will continue to operate as an answer messaging
facility so if you have any queries please call 011 44 (0)1745 571571 and leave your name and daytime telephone number after the tone and a member of MPO
staff will return your call. You can also email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk ,
send a fax to 011 44 (0)1745 571577 or write to the PO Box address (see below)

Behind the scenes, we are preparing the launch of a brand new range of 21st
Century merchandise which will be revealed over the next few weeks at
www.thealarm.com. If you would like to receive a brochure which will be available for dispatch in February then please send a stamped addressed envelope to MPO, PO Box 709,
Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19
9YR, Wales UK

MPO is still awaiting confirmation from the US for release dates regarding
the new 17 album and the brand new Greatest Hits Live Alarm 2000 DVD. Please
keep in touch for actual street dates.

'Coloursound Complete' is the latest release from MPO. On the back of Billy
Duffy's awesome appearance at the Gathering 10, the limited edition boxset
has proved enormously successful.
Priced £30 inc pand p ($45 + $5 pand p)

In the aftermath of the Gathering 10 the pace continues to increase for Mike
Peters, "the hardest working man in rock" (Quote: Billy Duffy). This week,
Mike Peters and guitarist James Stevenson have added the finishing touches
to the eagerly awaited new album which we hope will be released in the Summer of
2002.

At the end of this month, Mike and the band head off on tour to Italy with a
special concert in Verona where Mike will be performing Alarm songs with an
Italian orchestra. British fans can fly with Ryanair to Verona Brescia from London Stanstead for very reasonable rates. Please check www.ryanair.com.
Dates are as follows:
Mike Peters & Orchestra
31st Jan, S. Giovanni L.(VR) "Teatro Astra"

Alarm 2002 1st Feb, Rome, "Big Mama"
Alarm 2002 2nd Feb, Mezzago(MI), "Bloom"
Alarm 2002 3rd Feb, Padova, "Banale"

If you have any questions or would like to place an order for merchandise
please contact MPO

All the best


MPO

Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

I would like to thank you for putting on such a great weekend,the best one
by far and i have been to all ten. Both nights were great but saturday was
something special ,it beats all the big concerts i have ever been even the
big U2 shows.Mike and the band were superb and the encores as well with the
guests.thanks again see you on the road. yours W. Inman

Saturday was unbelievably special and a privilege to be there. Steve L

Just a quick note to say how much my brother and myself enjoyed this
weekend. This was the first Gathering that myself and my brother have been
able to attend, and we were amazed by both your performances and the
friendliness of all there.
I will definately be coming again. L Beaumont

MINDBLOWING.
I took my better half to the acoustic set and i think you converted her from
a ROBBIE WILLIAMS fan to an ALARM GROUPIE !!! SATURDAY was immense. ONCE
AGAIN THANKS FOR A TOP WEEKEND. C. Mathews.

Many thanks for a wonderful "Gathering" truly "AWESOME" -- how do you better
it for 2003???. Rob T.

Thanks for a wonderful night !!The concert was amazing, Ruth J, Tremerchion

Had a great night. Mike and the boys were certainly on form, the finale was
fantastic. Loved all the new songs especially 'Close' Alan P

I would just like to thank, Mike, Jules and everyone involved in The
Gathering 10. It was a wonderful weekend. Loved "Majority", made my weekend,
and looking forward to next year already... :-) When is the new album out,
the new songs were amazing, brilliant songwriting.Thanks again, Tim D

Just want to say a big THANKS for this weekend. I felt like a teenager again
listening to your music. It was a nice touch to start Saturday with the
Welsh national anthem, I don't get many opportunities to sing it. Heres to
next year. Best Wishes, Sara

Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the session on Friday night. I
thought Mike sang brilliantly - that, combined with the 'boy next door'
quality that he has, made for an electric evening. Ann, N. Wales


Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

Here are some links to some great G10 fan content:

Andy Greenly's Gathering Web site
Link 2 Wales Review Of G10

Rock and roll history was made at The Gathering Ten when the spiritual
mainmen of The Alarm, The Cult, Spear Of Destiny and The Mighty Wah!
performed together for the first time ever to create an unforgettable
evening of high musical drama.

As The Welsh National Anthem came over the P.A. system at precisely 9.15 on
Saturday the 12th of January 2002 Pete Wylie introduced Mike Peters and The
Alarm MMII to the stage and so began one of the most momentous rock and roll
shows I have ever witnessed.

Strobe lights flashed and out of the dark the band unleashed a brand new
song 'Trafficking', an audacious move but what a track. Shades of The Clash,
shades of Led Zep, shades of T-Rex, brilliant, and it was all over in 2.5
minutes. Before anyone could draw breath, drummer Steve Grantley rapped out
the familiar drum attack of 'Absolute Reality' and as the guitars burst in
every member of the audience went berserk. Peters switched from electric to
acoustic and stabbed out the intro to 'Ground Zero' the audience roared it's
approval and the band which had started in top gear, now swung into
overdrive. Another new song followed called 'Close'. It is so immediate that
by the second chorus it felt like everyone knew it.

The sound was brilliant in the hall, 'Sold Me Down The River' was followed
by 'The Wasting Land. A lone orchestral note washed through the room and
Mike Peters began picking a haunting chord progression to a third new song
on his familiar acoustic 12 string (which only ever has 6 strings on). He
had just started singing when the microphone suddenly fell off the stand.
Unruffled, Peters stopped the song and while the road crew fixed the
problem, Mike explained that we shouldn't be surprised that something like
this should happen at this moment because the song is called 'The Normal
Rules Do Not Apply'. He calmly called for the songs introduction again and
started all over. Even on first listen, I am moved to say that this is one
of the most beautiful and atmospheric songs Peters has ever written. It
begins slow and temperate and builds to a climax that once familiar, is
surely going to be a magical moment in many future concerts.

'Deeside' is always a crowd favourite and is quickly followed by the
psychedelic 'In Circles' which is segued into the fourth new song of the
evening. A gothic riff chorused from Peters' black Gibson Les Paul and we
were treated to another great rock song. Echoes of Coloursound could be
heard as Peters defiantly sang the refrain "One Life, you only get one
life". I don't know what it was called as it wasn't introduced but it's
definitely another live classic in the making.

The light show went into overdrive as guitarist James Stevenson fired off
the intro to 'Burnout Syndrome' and laser beams circled over the heads of
the surging crowd. Stevenson played the solo to perfection with Peters
stalking him left and right. What a great rapport there is between these two
it's amazing how their relationship has grown over the years. As 'Burnout
Syndrome' faded out, 'Twenty First Century' faded in. Peters roamed all over
the stage enticing a 'Queen' style hand clapping call and response from the
crowd before leaving the stage followed in turn by each member of the band.
The audience never stopped singing for the entire time they were off stage.

A voice came over the P.A. and we were introduced to the first major
surprise of the evening when Mike Peters and Billy Duffy of The Cult walked
out together to perform a medley of Coloursound songs. The roar that greeted
Billy Duffy's appearance was amazing. 'Under The Sun' and 'Alive' were
brilliant with Duffy proving he is a superb acoustic player before switching
to electric for 'Fade In Fade Out Fade Away'. The band came back onto the
stage half way through the song and erupted into the electric crescendo
while Billy Duffy coaxed some amazing sounds from his guitar. Billy left the
stage to rapturous applause.

"3 - 4" shouted Peters into the microphone and the frantic strumming of
'Declaration' gave the impression that the gig was starting all over again.
'Marching On', 'Where Were You Hiding' (with the biggest shower of playing
cards I have ever seen) and 'Knife Edge' all came in quick succession.
'Breathe', 'Rain In the Summertime', 'Strength', 'Rescue Me', 'Regeneration'
(whoever came up with this set list certainly knew what they were doing. The
pacing was superb). Peters gave thanks to his family and in particular his
wife - Jules, for helping to organise the event and to every one for coming,
dedicating the final song of the set to those who still believed. What a
sight it was to see every hand raised for the 'Spirit Of '76'.

The band trooped back on for an encore and began with what turned out to be
the final new song of the night 'In the Poppy Fields'. The significance of
the song was not lost on anyone and I'm sure I wasn't the only person at The
Gathering who thinks that Mike Peters may have just written his finest body
of songs to date. 'Unsafe Building' took us back to more familiar territory
as did 'Blaze Of Glory' with Peters singing his heart out and hitting the
highest note of the evening after what must have been 2 and a half hours on
stage. Incredible does not do this performance justice, and it was all about
to get even better.

A second encore was demanded and Mike Peters introduced each member of the
band to the audience followed by none other than Pete Wylie (The Mighty
Wah!) and Kirk Brandon (The Spear Of Destiny). Wylie strapped himself into a
twelve string electric guitar stage left, and Brandon armed himself with an
acoustic guitar stage right. 'The Stand' nearly brought the house down and
the sight of Peters, Wylie and Brandon belting out the lyrics in unison was
a sight to behold. Pete Wylie, The Mighty Wah! himself lead the next song.
An amazing version of 'Come Back' (There is a massive bond between Alarm
fans and Wylie as he has been a part of Alarm culture ever since The Alarm
started covering 'Better Scream' back in '83 before Peters wrote him into
the lyrics of 'Spirit Of '76'). Wylie queitened the band down and invited
Kirk Brandon to say a few words. Kirk gave a rousing speech about being
knocked down but never being knocked out. 'Come Back' finished with all
three singing around the mic stand. Wylie delivered the last line "hats off
to Mike Peters and all the 'gatherers".

Mike asked Kirk to sing the next song and Kirk told a story about meeting a
young guitarist in London in 1982. The guitarist was none other than Billy
Duffy (who was an original member of 'Theatre Of Hate'). It was an emotional
moment as the two were reunited onstage for the first time since 1983. Kirk
and Billy broke into 'Do You Believe In The Westworld' and we we were
treated to the unbelievable sight and sound of all seven guys on stage at
the same time, all brothers in arms, all heroes, all doing their musical
thing in unison. It was a sight that nobody who witnessed it will ever
forget. Mike Peters, Billy Duffy, Pete Wylie, Kirk Brandon, James Stevenson,
Richard Llewellyn, Steve Grantley....... The Magnificent Seven. The combined
forces of The Alarm, The Cult, Theatre Of Hate and The Mighty Wah!

Billy Duffy then cracked open the riff to 'She Sells Sanctuary', Mike Peters
strutted and sang it faithful to the original (complete with swinging
microphone). Wylie and Brandon smashed out the acoustic guitar answers while
Stevenson, Llewellyn and Grantley kept the rhythm tight.

This impromptu supergroup then burst into The Alarm's classic '68 Guns' and
with every voice raised to the roof the show came to an end. When the music
was over, all seven gathered arm in arm at the lip of the stage and paid
respect to the audience. Flash bulbs popped all over the place. Billy Duffy
thanked and described Mike Peters as the hardest working man in rock. Pete
Wylie asked for the loudest cheer of the evening for Mike Peters. Mike
thanked every one of his 'brothers' for coming. It was 12.10 a.m., Mike
Peters and The Alarm MMII had been on stage for almost three hours. It was
all over except that you felt like it was just beginning..... and in many
ways maybe it was just the beginning.


Dave Jones.

The Cult will be featured on VH! "Behind The Music" I nthe USA, Starting Jan. 20th at 9:00 PM. For more information, look at VH1.com

Now, are they any closer to having an "Alarm" episode? Who knows?!?!

Those who were lucky enough to be in attendance at the sold out Gathering
Ten bore witness to one of the finest Mike Peters acoustic performances
ever. It is always an emotional moment when Mike Peters takes to the
gathering stage but with this year, being the tenth anniversary of the event
somehow it seemed even more special.

Beginning with 'Walk Forever By My Side' it was overwhelming to hear every
voice raised in unison as Mike delivered the lyrics with a conviction that
conveyed and captured the sense of occasion.

The evening had begun with a surprise guest appearance from Pete Wylie who
played a stirring acoustic set of his own before introducing Mike Peters to
the stage. Mike was in fine voice and performed a set of songs that seemed
to make intimate connections with each member of the audience. Optimism
shone through in 'We Are The Light', the bond of friendship was amplified in
'Permanence in Change', and the love that Mike obviously feels for his
audience was evident in 'You Are To Me'.

'Father To Son' spoke for the generations assembled while 'Unbreak The
Promise', (The Alarm's - 'All The Young Dudes') restated the ideals at the
heart of the special relationship between Mike Peters and his loyal band of
followers, many of whom had travelled from far and wide to be in attendance.

Coming in the aftermath of a year that changed the world, 'The Day The
Ravens Left The Tower' was the highlight of the first part of the set with
Peters giving a spine tingling vocal performance, gone are the days of
pointing and shouting, ,Peters is now a singer in the truest sense of the
word. 'The Wind Blows Away My Words', 'How The Mighty Fall' and 'No
Frontiers' all followed with Peters pulling every ounce of intensity from
the often overlooked lyrics which seem to get better with every reading.

Before 'Moments In Time', Peters asked the audience not to think of The
Gathering Ten as the end of an era but rather as a beginning. Going on to
describe the ten years since Gathering 1 as a series of hard won battles,
alluding to his own personal bout with cancer in 1995 and making a
continuous stand for his and by definition The Alarm's music. He then
launched into 'One Step Closer To Home' and as the song reached it's climax
Peters was joined onstage by the rest of his band mates namely James
Stevenson on guitar, Richard Llewellyn on bass and Steve Grantley on drums.
The place went wild.

Images of the Elvis Presley 68 Comeback Special came to mind as the band
powered into 'Feel Free', 'We Are Majority', (complete with the original 'We
are' lyrics) and new song 'Free Inside' which is all chiming twelve string
guitars and amped up electro-acoustics, new it might have been, but it was
still greeted like an old favourite which it is surely destined to become.

'Rise' turned into a massive sing along and then came the familiar harmonica
introduction of 'The Deceiver'. 'High On The Hill' featured an amazing lead
guitar solo from James Stevenson. Another new song followed called 'True
Life' which filled the hall with a swirling harmonic beauty and lyrical
campassion. A song about letting go of the past "We can't go back from now
on we only go forward" sang Peters and in this moment captured the spirit of
the event.

'Gone Elvis', 'Up For Murder' and 'Bound For Glory' all passed in a flashing
blur of stripped down excitement before Pete Wylie was brought back onto the
stage for 'All Or Nothing' and 'Rocking In the Free World'. The last chord
seemed to go on for an eternity before Peters leapt high into the air to
bring the house down an an unforgettable night. Follow that......... not
many could, but I know a man who can....... his name is Mike Peters.


Dave Jones

The MPO has uprooted to Llandudno. Please note that the MPO office will be closed until January 15th.

Rumour has it that many special guests will be turning up at the Gathering - See you there!

Thanks to all who registered. Teams are as follows:

Howling Wind (Holland)
The Message (England)
The Real Madrid Reserves (Wales)
Cotter Crew (Scotland)
Mad Vikings (Norway)
Bangkok Ladyboys (Bangkok)
Concrete United (Wiltshire)
Fatboyz (UK/USA)

Referee: Tim Grosvenor (Wales)

Please report to John Bright Sports Centre at 9.45am on Sunday.
Address:
John Bright Sports Centre
Ffordd Penrhyn
Llandudno,
Conwy,
LL32 4ST

Map:




Good luck!

Danny Cohen/Jules Jones

Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

It's that time again when all you healthy types (!) refrain from alcohol on the Saturday night after the Gathering (!) in preparation for the highlight of the Gathering weekend - the 5 a side Footballl Tournament.

This is your chance to see Mike and the crew/band in their shorts, battling heroically against the likes of the 'Fatboys', 'Concrete United' and the 'Bangkok Lady Boys'!

Can all teams please contact MPO urgently to make sure their team has been registered. The fixture list is being prepared by MPO's Danny Cohen and so it is essential that all football teams are registered in advance.

All teams need to report to the John Bright Sports Centre at 9.45am on Sunday morning (13th Jan 2002).

Many thanks!

MPO
Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com

Mike Peters recently compiled a sountrack of classic Seventeen songs and new material for the HTV Wales series "Fun In The Sun". To hear the series theme song, written and performed by Mike Peters, click here:

Fun In The Sun

Click on the "Fun In The Sun" graphic on the left side of the screen to hear the song (Real Audio required)

Happy New Year and Blwyddyn Newydd Dda from all at MPO

The Gathering 10 is SOLD OUT.

We are now dealing with the chance of return tickets only so if you are still in need of Gathering tickets, please leave your name and daytime telephone number after the tone and a member of MPO staff will call you back and try their best to accommodate you.

The Gathering 10 takes place on 11/12 Jan 2002 - weekend ticket price £27 plus £1 booking fee.

If you are calling as a result of the current North Wales press articles regarding the Gathering there are a limited number of Saturday night tickets available for Jan 12th especially for North Walian fans at a price of £12.50 plus £1 booking fee. Please leave your name and daytime telelphone number after the tone

The MPO office is open between the hours of 10.30 am and 4 pm and operates as an answermessaging facility 24 hours a day

This week on HTV, brand new Mike Peters tunes can be heard as the soundtrack to the new HTV series 'Fun in the Sun'. Mike was invited to write a soundtrack for the series last year. A collection of brand new songs entitled 'Fun in the Sun' will be featured alongside some Seventeen songs. 'Fun in the Sun' comes to you and HTV on Thursday January 3rd @ 7.30pm and every Thursday after that for 6 weeks. For British fans who have Sky TV please consult your Satellite Programming Schedule.

The new '17' album and the brand new Greatest Hits Live Alarm 2000 DVD will be available in stores nationwide across the UK and USA. Please keep in touch for actual street dates.

We look forward to welcoming you to the sold out Gathering weekend on the 11th and 12th Jan 2002 - thanks for your incredible support.

All the best

MPO


Alarm Information Service
M.P.O. 21st Century Recording Company
P.O. Box 709, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9YR,
Wales, UK
Tel: 011 44 (0)1745 571571 Fax: 011 44 (0)1745 571577
Email mpo@alarmpo.demon.co.uk
www.thealarm.com