Duran Duran cancel UK tour dates

Simon has voice problems, apparently, and has been told to take a rest.
See: BBC News

New Romantics, a Bluffer's Guide

Everything you need to know in two and a half minutes...

Heaven 17 - 30th Anniversary Tour

Just got this press release...

Following the success of Heaven 17’s ‘Penthouse and Pavement 30th Anniversary Tour’ in 2010, Martyn Ware’s production project, ‘British Electric Foundation’ (B.E.F.) is proud to present ‘Music of Quality and Distinction Live’, a 2-day festival at London’s prestigious Roundhouse from October 14-15th, celebrating 30 years of seminal electronic music and unique collaborations.

Heaven 17 will perform the world premiere of their 1983 album ‘The Luxury Gap’ on Friday October 14th, followed by B.E.F.’s first ever live performance featuring tracks from the albums ‘Music of Quality & Distinction Vol. 1 & 2’ on Saturday October 15th.

Tickets go on sale Thursday April 12th at 10am. Ticket hotline: 0844 844 0444. Book online: www.ticketmaster.co.uk. Day tickets: £23.50. Weekend tickets: £42.50.

And here's a nice video to go with it....

Depeche Mode or Depech-ey? How's it pronounced?

You say Depeche, I say Depech-ey. So who's right? I think the little video should settle the matter....

Flexipop!, Depeche Mode and Fad Gadget

I just discovered this fab recording from an old Flexipop! cover disc dating from 1981. I was a writer for Flexipop! back in those days and each month the magazine carried exclusive tracks on its cover disc. You can read my Flexipop! interview with Depeche Mode's Dave Gahan in Neon 80s - a collection of some of my old interviews - available for Kindle or in paperback.