TODAY'S TEST: SERIOUS OR PARODY?:

Spinal Tap to reform for Live Earth (Paul MacInnes, April 25, 2007, Guardian Unlimited)

While rock fans have been dreaming of a Spinal Tap reunion for years, an important enough reason for the band to get back together has remained elusive. What possible cause could be big enough bring back the band who have seen it all, played it all and, later, scooped it all into a box so they could take it on their tour bus with them?

The answer has become clear today, however, after it was announced that the legendary UK act led by Nigel Tufnel and David St Hubbins are to reform in order to fight global warming. A new film delving into the band's eco-consciousness is to be screened today, and they will back it up with an appearance at this summer's Live Earth festival.

Director Rob Reiner, whose relationship with the band dates back to their classic rockumentary, This is Spinal Tap, explained the decision ahead of the film's debut at a New York festival tonight. "They're not that environmentally conscious, but they've heard of global warming," said Reiner. "Nigel thought it was just because he was wearing too much clothing - that if he just took his jacket off it would be cooler."