Recently by Matt McKenzie

Very sad news that Miriam Makeba, singer and freedom fighter, has died at the age of 76.

I had the privilege of seeing the woman known as Mama Africa on stage in Gateshead last year in a wonderful concert that formed part of the Sugar and Spice Festival, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act.

There is now an added poignancy to that show, marketed as her farewell tour. After a life performing on stage and battling injustice off it, she deserved a long and happy retirement.

The last time I saw Mercury Rev, the singer shambled off stage and came to stand near me in the crowd, as the gig continued seemingly unhindered up front.

I blame Nicky Campbell.

Each morning, by the very act of listening to Radio Five, I am reminded of a formative stage in my music-loving career by listening to the man who amuses me and irritates many over breakfast.

This is the right set up for Mr Frame.

Not just the cosy luxury of The Sage's Hall Two, but the one man with acoustic guitar
set-up that allowed his songs to be showcased in all of their fragile glory.

The Germans have a word for it, a pithy and poetic word for which there's no direct translation.

And it describes a condition from which I've suffered for years.