It’s just been pointed out to me that the last time Smokie played outdoors was on 10th November 2019 at the Airlee Beach Festival in Queensland, Australia. I would say we were just about gasping for fresh air, especially after the tedious incarceration caused by the pandemic. Was it wise to let us out so soon? It certainly was, along with the eager audience, both seated and standing, at Schloss Ribbeck, a most beautiful setting for a concert. Germany usually puts on some pretty good weather for us during the summer (I can’t say the same for Scotland) so the whole experience is completely enjoyable. Next day we were back indoors at Kulturzentrum Schlachthof in Wiesbaden, a particularly colourful venue that drew a crowd that was eager to shake off the apathy and get partying again, and they couldn’t have done it better. These two days in Germany will go down as two of the best shows we have played in this country and I’m sure it will leave the audience wishing to come back for more Smokie entertainment in the future. We are riding high at present and long may it continue. After just two days at home we resume in Krakow, Poland.