A warm greeting to you, one and all. It would seem the pages are turning on this record, guitars are spectacular, vocals are stunning, drums and bass are superb, and let me say right now... the Splendor crowd of 2009 were absolutely mind blowing (those who were there will know what I mean).

This album has been a very enjoyable process, from start to where I sit right now.... on the couch listening to some final touches being made to the songs. I have finally got the Hurdy Gurdy onto a song (it really makes it, of course), my dulcet vocals really shine, JC's Chimes tinkle beauty onto a couple of tracks, Cog's orchestral playing is absorbing, and Bern's crooning is.....well....crooning.

We have enjoyed having our studio crew dressed each and every day in their labcoats, and of course Nick continues to set the bar high every Friday (Gentleman's Friday).

Last Friday saw us doing a little busking outside The Great Northern Hotel. Not something we have done in the past, but something we may do again, purely because it was so much bloody fun. Nathan, I've been trying to find you, to give you our earnings... as promised. If I can't find you, I will be swinging the earnings into a charity.

As expected, Hog, Cogs and I tore up the surf out front of where we are staying, myself relishing the 2ft waves on a longboard... to the other guys' envy. Every few day, Bern, JC, Nick and I swing the golf clubs before the studio... and I'm sad to report I have not aquired the winning medal once... not bloody once, though I persist.

We leave this lovely place in a few days with fond memories and a pretty special album. A few of us are heading to Sydney to begin the mixing process, to be joined by the rest shortly after. To be honest, we will have time on our hands... Nick has the project well and truly under control. I think I'm ready to hand over the reins.

So, send me a line, let me know your innermost, darkest secrets, and I'll lend you an ear. I may even offer councel, for a small fee of course. The 'Fingers have often taken my services up, and will be more than happy to offer testimony.

Until next we meet,
Senor Darius El Guapo
Out.