Some/All of you will be aware that this year has been a tough one for my Bedlam Six co-singer Alison. She has been having all sorts of health problems and complications with treatment. As a consequence she has been absent from a lot of gigs. In that time we have had guest appearances from friends like Liz Green, Bridie Jackson and Kirsty Almeida but, as amazing as these artists are, no one can replace Ali who has been singing with The Bedlam Six since day one. Years of performing together has built an onstage chemistry that cannot be faked and I am looking forward to her rejoining us as soon as she is able.

Ali has just given me this message to pass onto those kind souls that have been sending get well soon messages through the Bedlam Six and Debt websites plus twitter and facebook. She’s very touched by your support.

Message reads:

Hello all,

As you might know this year has been a bit of a shocker for me health-wise, and I’ve been struggling to perform my usual duties of farting about on stage with my wonderful bandmates (not to mention my bill-paying role as library book-faffer). I’ve been in an out of hospital and confusion still reigns about exactly how to handle things. However, I think things are on the up, and I am positive that all the messages, emails and support I have received over the past few months have helped me no end. I am so incredibly touched by and grateful for the love and positivity given to me by friends, family, fans and just about every kindly soul I’ve encountered (or not! I even got an email from Clint Boon’s mum!) Though it’s been the toughest time of my life so far it is the people around me that are getting me through, and I really can’t thank you all enough. I’m hoping to be back in action soon, and looking forward to some recording and experimenting next week down on the south coast. What a great way to get back in the saddle and catch up with those bonnie Bedlam boys! I do not doubt it will have a great restorative effect. I can’t help thinking that a hundred years ago I would have been packed off for some country air and spa waters by my doctor months ago… though the drugs were a bit haphazard back then so om balance I’m probably better off now, those improvised opiates looked a bit tricky. Anyway, in order to avert the very real risk of rambling I will sign off with HUGE THANKS and love to all you fine souls - you’ve made a sick puppy very happy. Well done! 

And see you soon!

Yours gratefully,

Ali 

xxx