It’s fair to say that we’re gutted and wet around the eyes in The Quietus office this afternoon with the news that The Stool Pigeon newspaper is to cease publication. It’s fair to say that without the existence of that paper, the network of brilliant people who contributed to it, the inspiration of editor Phil Hebblethwaite and general attitude of everyone involved, The Quietus wouldn’t exist in the form it does today. We spent a few years sharing office space in Stoke Newington and then Hackney Wick, and those late nights of delivery Il Baccios and days of shouting at each other across the room about garage rock are happy memories. I started writing for the paper after meeting Phil in a Ryanair departure lounge in Norway, and it’s fair to say that his open mind to new music generous word counts, and the strict rod of iron he wielded as an editor, were about the best lessons in writing I’ve ever had. – Luke Turner
It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to work for the Stool Pigeon. Not only have Phil Hebblethwaite and Mickey Gibbons become good friends but they were also highly inspirational to me when I was starting up The Quietus. Phil is the best editor I’ve ever had – he is passionate, ethical and righteously engaged – and Mickey is the most deranged and maverick art editor I’ve ever had. I’d like to wish them the best of luck and happiness with whatever they do in the future. – John Doran
There’s a full statement as to the reasons why the paper is closing on their website here.
