The Mellotron Group

During the "Tronto" Mellotron convention we had the chance to sort of "interview" Ian. One of the attendees - Ches Cain - actually captured much (but not all) of the interview on videotape.

I have a copy of that tape somewhere and recall that Ian seemed very pleased that we asked about all the facets of his career, which shed much light on why he left Crimson, his work with Giles, Fireballet, Foreigner etc.

Later that night at the pub, our conversation turned to discussion about the present state of the music industry and how the major stores were carrying less jazz, blues, rock, and devoting more shelf space to the top 40 sellers. During the chat I had lamented an example to him that I couldn't find the special 30th anniversary edition of "Court" despite repeated trips to several stores.

The following night at the pub, at a private table, he brought up that topic again and asked me something like "So you never could find it??" And then - re-living my frustration with the search I answered "Yeah, I can't believe that these major stores aren't regularly carrying it!! They're telling me they aren't sure they can get it because they carry the previously released version with the orange and purple cover, and if I want it then I have to order that one!! It's truly disgusting!! They'll carry deluxe versions of Pearl Jam or Nickelback but it's almost like there's some conspiracy to not carry prog rock!!

And with that he was smiling slightly and slowly withdrew a copy of the 30th anniversary edition out of his jacket, and said "Well....this is for you Chris"!! It was signed "To Chris, With All Best Wishes"

Needless to say I was happily shocked!!

Ian is a true gentleman