Well, we have finally arrived to tonight’s gig that has been 18, 263 days in the making..

I have told you about the historic night at the Lesser Free Trade Hall so you know why I am in Manchester.

I will report on the gig tomorrow.

Today is time for some quiet contemplation as to the impact and joy post- punk music (and in particular JOY DIVISION) has had on the enjoyment or my very privileged life.

Tonight’s event is titled 76/26/50. For me it would be 79/26/47 as it was December of 1979 when I first heard and was blown away by the sounds of JOY DIVISION.

I took a long walk today to Hulme for today’s cover pick.

Here is why?

It wasn’t snowing when I went today but it was, fittingly, raining – quite heavy at times. It was perfect.

So for today’s song, a JOY DIVISION b-side to capture it for you, my friends.

Here is to the next 18,263 days to all of you…

Here is “These Days” – driven by HOOK’S incomparable bass and the hypnotic lyrics and vocals of IAN CURTIS (RIP). It is the b- side to “Love Will Tear Us Apart.” A worthy track lost in the haze of an epic song. Maybe , but never forgotten by me, however…

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6j0J0x6ZY8Y&list=RD6j0J0x6ZY8Y&start_radio=1&pp=ygUXSm95IERpdmlzaW9uIFRoZXNlIERheXOgBwHSBwkJKAsBhyohjO8%3D&ra=m

And live as performed by PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT –

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bNXB7isERsw&pp=ygUpUGV0ZXIgaG9vayBhbmQgdGhlIGxpZ2h0IHRoZXNlIHRoZXNlIGRheXM%3D&ra=m

SPOTIFY/

https://open.spotify.com/track/00n7hqvg3U8OE5tqlKUaqm?si=UAG-EDsERaWA2n29Neoe5w

(SONG 1670)

PLAY LOUD NEVER PERISH

JUNE 4, 1976 2026