A message to 'Beyond the Pale'

From Obie Clayton, Matthew Ellis, or Michael Cox …

Roland,

Very many thanks for […] the - completely fascinating - links (see foot of this page). I'm gobsmacked by all this. I can't tell you what a buzz it was to see the front cover of the Obie Clayton album in glorious colour on the net.

I'm glad the Matthew Ellis / Obie Clayton / Matthew Fisher story is now cleared up. Needless to say (as you have yourself concluded) there was never the remotest intention to pass myself off as Fisher - though (on reflection) I must certainly acknowledge some unconscious echoes of PH in my music and lyrics. It's just amazing that all this has been going on for years without my knowing anything about it.

As for albums in the attic, there's unreleased stuff with the band (Eden & Atkinson), and a lot of solo demo material. I still write a good tune (I like to think) and regularly harbour middle-aged fantasies of having one of my songs recorded by someone with the clout to take it to number one.

I don't think I mind my e-mail address being put on the PH website - ma.cox@btinternet.com - who knows what might come of it?

Shine on brightly,

Yours - with best wishes and thanks

Michael