Crimbus, Non-Functioning Diesel Station, Somewhere, Spain.
Continuing the journey towards Madrid, Girt-Sven pulled off the autoroute onto an industrial estate for refuelling. But the computer of this gas station is non-functoning. Currently, we are sitting here. The other Crims are asleep.
11.40 Bump bump bump bump.
12.50 We arrived at the hotel and checked into our rooms shortly after noon. This is a professionally acceptable hotel of the 1960s variety with lobby dÈcor I associate with Hilton. I set out from my room as soon as possible after arriving and passed a flight crew in the lobby, all smoking. This is Spain.
Now, at an open air cafÈ of the continental European variety, I am computing, shaking disheartenment & despondency from my presence.
13.40 The Spaniards on the adjoining table are shouting loudly at each other. In England, this would count as a family altercation over Sunday lunch. In Madrid, they are merely having a conversation in Spanish.
I have written an e-mail to Charlie Hewitt & David Singleton discussing my feelings on this tour.
13.56 Another sidewalk cafÈ where the conversation is more moderated --
14.42 Time to return to the hotel, shower & shave. I need to get to the venue early: my playing is not up to the standard required, so I will be practising, practising...
"Money is not a problem, only a difficulty."
