The first time we played Manchester, I wasn’t so impressed with the city. Over our many returns there, I’ve come to really love it. This time was exceptional. Great audiences, a lovely hotel, and arguably the best Italian restaurant we’ve encountered in a very long time.

Those of you who live in there probably already know about San Carlo, but I was tipped to it by an Italian barber named Paolo. I was sent to Paolo by an Italian concierge named Pino. But it’s no secret.

Yes, San Carlo is a big place, does a huge business, has celebrity photos on the wall—all signs which should cause worry. But they somehow turn out dishes that make you say “this is the best plate of (whatever) I’ve ever had.”

I spent an afternoon at the Art Gallery, and the Festival was going on: great events seemingly every day. Unfortunately, the timing was right to catch Bjork’s new show, but I really enjoyed reading the review.

Paul Simon has been stalking us around Europe, always turning up a day before or a day later than us, but this time Maxine and Julia, Larry the K and Sam made it over to catch his show, and brought back good reports.

Manchester has a lot of friendly people and a lot of interest in the arts (and a fascinating artistic history), and these days is a tourstop to be eagerly anticipated.

But our work there is done now, and we’re on to London.