Concerned that some fans may be confused, an official spokesperson clarifies: "The situation is exactly as you reported. The band are on family holidays following their mini-summer tour and initial writing and recording schedule. The band are all happy and planning to reconvene for rehearsals of new material for 2004. No record companies have been decided yet, but many discussions have taken place with companies all over the world. All is good in the Cranberries camp. The rumours of a band crisis are simply untrue.
"Dolores is collaborating on solo material, as noted previously," they continue. "She has written many songs and is also writing with Noel on many others. They are both working on a variety of material which is expected to be released in the coming years. This material is Cranberries related and may also be solo, no specific determination has really been made as the songs are not finished. As noted previously, the band members have been approached about films, TV, soundtracks, collaborations etc. They have worked with Stephen Street, Cenzo Townsend, Matt Vaughan and others to be decided in the coming months."
As for other solo activities, the spokesman reveals: "Dolores has already recorded a duet with the Italian artist Zucchero for his next album. This song, 'Puro Amore', will be featured on a collection of duets. No release date has been confirmed – it may be this autumn at earliest. The song was written by Zucchero with adapted English lyrics by Dolores and another lyricist. She also sings in Italian.
"Dolores is also waiting to hear songs written by Brian Johnson of AC/DC with others on his play Helen Of Troy. Brian has been working on this idea for a number of years. The musical is expected to feature many artists and may be ready for its debut in London later in the year."