Splinters

Great timing. Just as I write a post proclaiming them the future of music - again - the Long Blondes have only gone and split.

Flippancy aside, this is doubly sad. Not only because Britain and the world have lost a truly great band, but the reason why they have lost it. Guitarist and songwriter Dorian Cox suffered a stroke some weeks ago, has not fully recovered, and may never play the guitar again. Mad and sad to think this is the man I saw play so brilliantly in Manchester a few months back.

Let me reiterate, the Long Blondes were one of the best, if not the best band of recent years, and - less angry this time - you really should by their new compilation "singles", commemorative as it turns out.

Meanwhile here's to you Dorian:- the fantastic songs you have given the world, and your hopeful recovery.