I'll be completely honest, when I found out that it was confirmed that he was on the bill, I was hoping that Boz wouldn't know about it. Or Jesse. Or even Alain. Don't get me wrong, I've found something to love in each Morrissey album, but I'm really itching for Moz to go in a new direction. I don't know why, but I've just got it in my head for him to do something more electronic-based; not like a synth-pop album or anything like that, but having an atmosphere more set by keyboards than guitar. He had that chance with Mikey Farrell -- a shame they didn't collaborate more, because I'm sure Mikey must've had some pretty great ideas. Moz would need to find someone on much the same musical level to achieve something like this. However, there's no use lamenting him using the same band and writers again; I will be slightly disappointed though if he doesn't showcase ANY new songs at Hop Farm. The news of this date and new management would be a HUGE tease otherwise, I think. This can't be part of promotion for "The Very Best of Morrissey."
EDIT: I wonder if Gustavo Manzur is still in the picture on keyboards, etc.? I seem to recall reports of him being seen around the Cat & Fiddle with Moz & Jesse. Unless I'm just making that up?