The October 2005 issue of the UK's Word Magazine, published this coming Thursday, is a treat for Roger Waters fans.

From the striking cover shot of Roger, to the in-depth interview with him that covers six pages, the conversation covers his forthcoming opera, Ca Ira, the Live 8 reunion, and his feelings about David and Nick's decision to continue the band without him.

With the passing of time, you find out how his views have changed in some areas. Indeed, at one point in the interview, he even states: "I would have preferred it if Dave and Nick had not gone around the world using my songs, but it wasn't to be. And in a way it wasn't that bad a thing that they did, as regards keeping Pink Floyd's music alive."

The interview starts with detail on the birth of the Ca Ira project, and the early days of its creation. He draws parallels from the story of the French Revolution, to the present day of the Bush administration.

Things then move to a fascinating discussion on the Live 8 reunion, with Roger setting out his side of the story. He also talks about how emotional the whole experience was: "It was just... really good. I was very moved to be on stage with Dave, Nick and Rick that night. I felt at ease and glad to be given the opportunity to let bygones be bygones, and to demonstrate that, although we'd had our difficulties in the past, we are grown men who understand that rapprochement is possible even in the face of differing points of view.It was really good to transcend all the crap and say 'Well, fuck it, let's just get up onstage. It's been a long while. We can agree to disagree about all of the old stuff and stand up here and play these three or four songs and it can be fun, it can be good.'"

The final segment concerns itself with the acrimonious split in the 80s, and Roger's thoughts on various aspects of those days.

Pretty much the final words provide hope for those who weren't able to attend Hyde Park back in July: "I really loved [the Live 8 concert]. I hope we do it again. It was more than good. If some other opportunity arose, I could even imagine us doing Dark Side Of The Moon again - you know, if there was a special occasion. It would be good to hear it again. Live 8 was so great. [It would have to be] something with a political or charitable connection...

The magazine hits UK shop shelves on Thursday, and is available in selected other countries as an import. It can also be ordered by mail order from www.wordmagazine.co.uk - they will send the magazine worldwide.

Our thanks to Mark Ellen and David Hepworth, both of Word Magazine, for their invaluable help.