[KarmaContestant]

Originally Posted by Phil

The real stumbling block regarding the upcoming Mac album is the imminent band tour. There seems to be no conceivable reason for touring at this stage (so soon after the previous one and without any new product due to be released), other than a cash-grab. Yes I've read the spin about welcoming Christine back into the fold, but that's just nonsense. If the band truly wanted to get the album completed and issued, then the tour would not be occurring at this stage.
I am somewhat disappointed by Stevie's (perceived) lack of enthusiasm for a Mac album, but even if she had been available from March to April (when the recording sessions occurred), there still wouldn't have been a finished album.
It might be argued that Lindsey and Christine have ceased recording for the time being due to Stevie's lack of involvement, but it's equally possible that they don't wish to continue at this stage for other reasons. Christine has spoken about wanting to return to the UK before the tour rehearsals begin in July and perhaps Lindsey wishes to spend time with his family during the interim period (somebody here recently mentioned him usually vacationing at this time of year). There is also John's medical condition/treatment to consider - none of us know exactly what his current situation is.
I have said this before and still believe that Stevie had intended to record a solo album this year, prior to Christine's decision to re-join the band. Undoubtedly, she and Dave Stewart would have planned the Nashville sessions some time ago, with Blackbird Studios and the 'wrecking crew' of musicians having been booked some time in advance.
Dave is constantly working with all manner of artists and just to pin him down for a few consecutive weeks would be a challenge in itself. He has previously mentioned collaborating with Stevie on new compositions over the last couple of years and so they obviously have maintained a working relationship since the In Your Dreams album/tour/documentary ran it's course.
Stevie has spoken about locating the 'vault' demos for her latest album on Youtube and I suspect this was undertaken some time last year. In order for these 17 or 18 songs to be knocked out so quickly in the studio, sufficient time would have been required to become familiar with them and pre-determine arrangements etc. Therefore, I do honestly think Stevie was committed to this solo project before any firm plans were hatched for a Mac album.
As frustrating as this all might be to fans, this band always takes it's sweet time in getting anything done and this next album will be no exception. One could argue that Stevie is disinterested and non-committal; Lindsey is dictatorial and tactless; Christine might be capricious; John has been ill and Mick has been stirring the proverbial pot... who knows? There's no point apportioning blame as this won't alter the situation. We just need to hope that age doesn't wither these individuals and that eventually new music is bestowed upon us.

Yay, some common sense!