Pitchfork

Ok, it's not quite the news everyone has been waiting years to hear, but it's a start. For the first time since their acrimonious split in 1987, two members of the most celebrated 80s British band will share the same stage, coming together to play a fundraising concert for Manchester's Christie Hospital.

Ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr has been recruited by former bass foil Andy Rourke for tbe "Manchester Vs Cancer" which will take place at the Manchester Evening News Arena on January 28. The event is being hailed by the organizers and the hospital as the biggest-ever charity fundraising concert staged in Manchester. Other confirmed performers include the New Order, Badly Drawn Boy, Doves, Mani (ex-Stone Roses and current Primal Scream bassist), and Stephen Fretwell. Oh Manchester, so much to answer for!

NME.com reports that Marr enthusiastically supports the cause and his old friend's efforts. Speaking of the event, Marr said, "Andy and I go back a long way, since our school days. We have been hanging out and seeing each other and he told me about this project. I literally applauded him and said I wanted to get involved with it if he needed any help. It's a privilege to be part of it as I am aware of the work that Christie does."

The Christie is Europe's largest cancer treatment and research centre. Spurred on by the news that both his manager's sister and father were recently diagnosed with cancer, Rourke took it upon himself to organize the event and to make a few calls to his famous friends. In a press statement for the event, Rourke explained his involvement: "It will bring together people and bands that have made Manchester famous. It will be huge and the idea is that this will be the start of an annual event to raise money for charity whether it is helping cancer or arthritis. It will be bigger and bigger each year, the highlight of the musical calendar."

Marr added, "It's not the easiest thing getting something like this together because it needs to be done on a fairly big scale to have any significance, so I think Andy is really brave. But who would refuse his offer to get involved? I mean, who could refuse it? You can't unless you are out of the country on tour. I made sure I was around and I'm looking forward to it-- it will be a good night."

Hmm, who could refuse it indeed? Pitchfork can think of one semi-reclusive, allegedly celibate, highly erudite romantic sunning himself poolside in LA who may skip the night. Because an appearance by Ian Curtis is more likely than one by Morrissey.