w h o a r e y o u e x a c t l y

May 00

Continuing our exploration of jobs in the local music scene. This month, the man who makes sure everything happens on time and it’s all glued together properly. He’s called Andy Grey and he’s the Zodiac’s Stage Manager!. Andy Grey - He was really hoping we wouldn't use this photo again How long in the job About three years. Highlight of career so far Standing in the Zodiac dressing room unable to speak as Robert Plant told me an amusing little rock’n’roll anecdote about the time him and Pagey played seven nights at Madison Square Gardens. And the lowlight Two nominations for this category. Both of them when Mansun played at the Zodiac. Ever wanted to kill a band See above… Favourite Oxford gig The Jesus Underground Band at the Bully and Rage Against The Machine at the Zod (did it really happen, or was it just a dream?). Most hated gig in Oxford At the risk of repeating myself… What pisses you off about your job Prima donna bands and visiting crew. It’s bad enough having to do a job with a blinding hangover without some fey idiot giving you a hard time because there’s no freshly-pressed guava juice on the rider. Who is the most awkward person you’ve ever had to deal with I’ll have to go for the sound engineer for Fluke, who within 15 minutes of entering the building managed to have all of the crew threatening to kill him. More recently, the lead singer of a famous local band. Diplomacy prevents me from revealing his identity, but let’s just say he was ‘looking at me in a funny way’. When was the last time you heard genius Dex, one of our crew, describing his involvement in the Kidlington heat of the National Disco Dancing Championships. Do you ever get bored listening to music No, just drunk. Ever compromised your integrity for money or sexual favours No, but I’m always open to offers. Would you swap your job for any other Yes, immediately (any chance of a pay rise then, Nick…). Are you rich Not from this job. Do you consider your job glamorous Anyone who has seen, let alone smelt, the inside of the Zodiac will know that glamorous is not a word often associated with the place. Favourite thing about Oxford music A lot of great (and a fair few mad) people that make the whole thing. Advice to anyone wanting to do this job Seek medical advice. Failing that, try to get on with everybody, keep your sense of humour and don’t wear your best trousers.