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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & Support
"Putting the AI Free Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Welcome to FabricationsHQ
Home to the musical articles, reviews and promotional features by
Ross Muir
Freelance Music Writer, Music Promotion & Support
"Putting the AI Free Words to the Music"
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Contributing writer & reviewer: Nelson McFarlane
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Muirsical Thoughts, Muirsical News
Southern roots-rock alumni Warren Haynes has released his striking orchestral take of Grateful Dead classic 'Skakedown Street' as a second single from upcoming live album Dreams & Songs, which will be released (date tbc) on Provogue/Artone Label Group (Europe) and Evil Teen Records (U.S.)
"This is a really powerful orchestrated arrangement that enhances the power of the original, which I played and sang a ton of times with those guys through the years, especially Phil Lesh and Friends, but with The Dead as well," shares Warren Haynes. "A lot of people just focus on the groove and get lost in the rhythmic quality of it, but the orchestra forces you to pay attention to it in a different way. It’s very dark and powerful and, I think, very effective."
"This is a really powerful orchestrated arrangement that enhances the power of the original, which I played and sang a ton of times with those guys through the years, especially Phil Lesh and Friends, but with The Dead as well," shares Warren Haynes. "A lot of people just focus on the groove and get lost in the rhythmic quality of it, but the orchestra forces you to pay attention to it in a different way. It’s very dark and powerful and, I think, very effective."
Dreams & Songs presents 2019’s one-of-a-kind concert at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville NC.
It captures the thrilling collision between Warren Haynes' lineup of seasoned rock 'n' roll improvisers including Oteil Burbridge (bass), John Medeski (keys), Jeff Sipe (drums), Greg Osby (saxophone) and Edwin McCain & Jasmine Muhammad (background vocals) and the 64-piece Asheville Symphony Orchestra.
The 16-track collection explores all aspects of his incredible catalogue and career including music from Gov’t Mule, Allman Brothers Band, The Dead, his solo albums, and more.
Haynes will bring his acclaimed Dreams & Songs Symphonic Experience show to Nashville next year for two nights at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with the Nashville Symphony on Thursday March 11th & Friday March 12th.
Until then, Warren Haynes will be busy on the road with his bandmates in Gov’t Mule.
The revered GRAMMY-nominated quintet is touring this summer on their Kicking In Your Stall tour as well as a co-headlining trek with blues rock icon Joe Bonamassa, traveling all over the U.S. from July through August.
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It captures the thrilling collision between Warren Haynes' lineup of seasoned rock 'n' roll improvisers including Oteil Burbridge (bass), John Medeski (keys), Jeff Sipe (drums), Greg Osby (saxophone) and Edwin McCain & Jasmine Muhammad (background vocals) and the 64-piece Asheville Symphony Orchestra.
The 16-track collection explores all aspects of his incredible catalogue and career including music from Gov’t Mule, Allman Brothers Band, The Dead, his solo albums, and more.
Haynes will bring his acclaimed Dreams & Songs Symphonic Experience show to Nashville next year for two nights at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with the Nashville Symphony on Thursday March 11th & Friday March 12th.
Until then, Warren Haynes will be busy on the road with his bandmates in Gov’t Mule.
The revered GRAMMY-nominated quintet is touring this summer on their Kicking In Your Stall tour as well as a co-headlining trek with blues rock icon Joe Bonamassa, traveling all over the U.S. from July through August.
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2xGrammy nominated roots-blues and rock singer-guitarist Samantha Fish will release her first official live album, Paper Doll Live, via Rounder Records, on June 12th.
Pre-order the album, available on CD, Vinyl & Digital, here: https://ffm.to/sfpaperdolllive
"Truly, this is for the fans," says Samantha Fish of making her first official live record. "We’ve had numerous requests over the years. Paper Doll felt so great on stage that it felt like the perfect time to showcase the band and capture what we do every night. It wasn’t about chasing something new. It was about capturing the thing that has connected so deeply over the years.
If Paper Doll was a declaration of artistic power, Paper Doll Live is the sound of that power unleashed."
The album has been preceded by the singles 'Sweet Southern Sounds.' 'Don't Say It' and, now the title track.
Pre-order the album, available on CD, Vinyl & Digital, here: https://ffm.to/sfpaperdolllive
"Truly, this is for the fans," says Samantha Fish of making her first official live record. "We’ve had numerous requests over the years. Paper Doll felt so great on stage that it felt like the perfect time to showcase the band and capture what we do every night. It wasn’t about chasing something new. It was about capturing the thing that has connected so deeply over the years.
If Paper Doll was a declaration of artistic power, Paper Doll Live is the sound of that power unleashed."
The album has been preceded by the singles 'Sweet Southern Sounds.' 'Don't Say It' and, now the title track.
Recorded at the historic Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Tennessee, Paper Doll Live captures a band fully locked in and feeding off a packed crowd. The show, and the recording, was elevated further by the addition of Nashville gospel legends The McCrary Sisters.
"Their voices lifted every song," says Samantha. "I love beautiful backing vocals, they pack an emotional punch. I’ve been a fan of them for years, so that was really special for me."
Recognized as one of the most dynamic artists in contemporary blues and roots music, Kansas City Hall of Famer and multiple award-winner Samantha Fish has built a global following through relentless touring and critically acclaimed releases, including Wild Heart (2015), Chills & Fever (2017), Kill or Be Kind (2019), Faster (2021), Deathwish Blues with Jesse Dayton (2023), and Paper Doll (2023).
A commanding live performer, Fish has toured internationally, performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, shared stages with artists including Slash, and The Rolling Stones and has performed as part of Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival.
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"Their voices lifted every song," says Samantha. "I love beautiful backing vocals, they pack an emotional punch. I’ve been a fan of them for years, so that was really special for me."
Recognized as one of the most dynamic artists in contemporary blues and roots music, Kansas City Hall of Famer and multiple award-winner Samantha Fish has built a global following through relentless touring and critically acclaimed releases, including Wild Heart (2015), Chills & Fever (2017), Kill or Be Kind (2019), Faster (2021), Deathwish Blues with Jesse Dayton (2023), and Paper Doll (2023).
A commanding live performer, Fish has toured internationally, performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, shared stages with artists including Slash, and The Rolling Stones and has performed as part of Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival.
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Alt-pop punk rockers RiotWeekend have released 'Last Of The Autumn Leaves' as a single.
The bouncy, feel-good song is also the opener on the band’s sophomore EP Table4Four, which is available on all good digital platforms and on CD direct from the band: https://riotweekend.bandcamp.com/merch
"Last Of The Autumn leaves is a pop-punk romance song that’s perfect for the summer," say the band.
"It’s a song we’ve been playing live for a while, although it really came together in the studio where we added lots of harmonies and a little extra spice!"
The bouncy, feel-good song is also the opener on the band’s sophomore EP Table4Four, which is available on all good digital platforms and on CD direct from the band: https://riotweekend.bandcamp.com/merch
"Last Of The Autumn leaves is a pop-punk romance song that’s perfect for the summer," say the band.
"It’s a song we’ve been playing live for a while, although it really came together in the studio where we added lots of harmonies and a little extra spice!"
Blending pop punk catchiness with hard hitting huge riffs and wide ranging soaring vocals, the Guildford based quartet of Holly Nunn (lead vocals, bass), Tomma Moulard (guitar), Rab McGowan (guitar) and Salvatore Bertolone (drums) released their self-titled debut EP in 2022; it went on to gain international and BBC Introducing airplay along with rave reviews.
With new offering Table4Four the band are on a mission for all those that feel a misfit, left out or want to belong in their own personal identity no matter what.
"We love hanging out, connecting, hearing and sharing experiences at shows - at ours or those we go to. We’re really happy that people have been enjoying the EP. Keep on listening, and come see us live!"
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With new offering Table4Four the band are on a mission for all those that feel a misfit, left out or want to belong in their own personal identity no matter what.
"We love hanging out, connecting, hearing and sharing experiences at shows - at ours or those we go to. We’re really happy that people have been enjoying the EP. Keep on listening, and come see us live!"
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Hard rockin’ guitarist-singer-songwriter Jack J Hutchinson has released a new single, 'Soul Believer.'
Stream/ Download: https://earache.lnk.to/SoulBeliever
The track is the first to be heard from Hutchinson’s forthcoming new studio album of the same name, due for release on 22nd January 2027. Pre-order: https://eyesoremerch.com/bands/j/jack-j-hutchinson/
Co-written with Josiah J Manning, the riff-gritty Soul Believer "was written during a period of turmoil and instability in my personal life," says Jack. "It’s about taking all the shit life can throw at you, raising your head above the parapet and saying, ‘bring it the f*ck on!’. It’s about believing that eventually there will be brighter days and that hope is a powerful thing."
Stream/ Download: https://earache.lnk.to/SoulBeliever
The track is the first to be heard from Hutchinson’s forthcoming new studio album of the same name, due for release on 22nd January 2027. Pre-order: https://eyesoremerch.com/bands/j/jack-j-hutchinson/
Co-written with Josiah J Manning, the riff-gritty Soul Believer "was written during a period of turmoil and instability in my personal life," says Jack. "It’s about taking all the shit life can throw at you, raising your head above the parapet and saying, ‘bring it the f*ck on!’. It’s about believing that eventually there will be brighter days and that hope is a powerful thing."
Soul Believer is the forthcoming follow-up to 2024’s Official Independent chart-topping album Battles.
"The twelve tracks on Soul Believer are the most eclectic I’ve written for an album," reflects Jack.
"My favourite records are Physical Graffiti and Exile on Main Street, which are both pretty diverse ranging albums that swing from hard rockers through to bluesy numbers and softer ballads. I wanted to do something similarly expansive, and create something quite cinematic. I think it’s the best collection of songs I’ve written so far."
Jack J Hutchinson will return to the road in June with his band Greg Smith (bass) and Phil Wilson (drums).
A special Launch Show will celebrate the album’s release at O2 Academy Islington on Thursday 21st January 2027.
Confirmed Tour Dates 2026 & 2027
6 June – The Muse, Brecon
7 June – The Half Moon, Putney
19 June – LoveRocks, Ferndown
17 July – Maid of Stone Festival, Maidstone
9 August – Firevolt Festival, Manchester
29 August – Rock The Peaks, Matlock
11 September – Destination Forge, Sheffield
13 September – HRH Blues, Sheffield
7 November – St Austell Band Club
10 November – TNMC, Coulsdon
11 November – The Louisiana, Bristol
12 November – The Portland Arms, Cambridge
17 November – Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
18 November – The Castle Hotel, Manchester
20 November – Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden
6 December – Looe Blues Festival
21 January 2027 – O2 Academy Islington (Album Launch Show)
24 January 2027 – The Cluny 2, Newcastle
Tickets available via:
https://jackjhutchinsonmusic.com/2026/03/05/soul-believer-album-launch-tour/
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"The twelve tracks on Soul Believer are the most eclectic I’ve written for an album," reflects Jack.
"My favourite records are Physical Graffiti and Exile on Main Street, which are both pretty diverse ranging albums that swing from hard rockers through to bluesy numbers and softer ballads. I wanted to do something similarly expansive, and create something quite cinematic. I think it’s the best collection of songs I’ve written so far."
Jack J Hutchinson will return to the road in June with his band Greg Smith (bass) and Phil Wilson (drums).
A special Launch Show will celebrate the album’s release at O2 Academy Islington on Thursday 21st January 2027.
Confirmed Tour Dates 2026 & 2027
6 June – The Muse, Brecon
7 June – The Half Moon, Putney
19 June – LoveRocks, Ferndown
17 July – Maid of Stone Festival, Maidstone
9 August – Firevolt Festival, Manchester
29 August – Rock The Peaks, Matlock
11 September – Destination Forge, Sheffield
13 September – HRH Blues, Sheffield
7 November – St Austell Band Club
10 November – TNMC, Coulsdon
11 November – The Louisiana, Bristol
12 November – The Portland Arms, Cambridge
17 November – Bannerman’s, Edinburgh
18 November – The Castle Hotel, Manchester
20 November – Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden
6 December – Looe Blues Festival
21 January 2027 – O2 Academy Islington (Album Launch Show)
24 January 2027 – The Cluny 2, Newcastle
Tickets available via:
https://jackjhutchinsonmusic.com/2026/03/05/soul-believer-album-launch-tour/
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Following the April release, and subsequent acclaim, for his Two Shades Of Blue album, five-time Grammy nominee and renowned guitarist Robben Ford has announced a return to the UK in January & February 2027 for a run of nine shows (see dates further below).
Across a career spanning more than five decades, Robben Ford has collaborated with such luminaries as Joni Mitchell, Miles Davis, George Harrison, Bonnie Raitt and Bob Dylan.
As a solo artist, his live shows are a rare chance to witness a true innovator at the height of his powers; a guitar master who blends blues, rock, jazz and fusion into something entirely his own.
Two Shades Of Blue highlights a musician at the top of his game.
Tracked in the US and UK with two different crack-squad bands, the album paints with his Ford’s inimitable palette, from the low-slung funk-blues of lead single 'Make My Own Weather' to skyscraping instrumentals such as 'Two Shades of Blue' and the brass-bolstered soul ballad, 'Perfect Illusion,' all showcasing the prowess of a player ranked amongst the 100 Greatest Guitarists Of The 20th Century by Musician Magazine.
Robben Ford – UK Tour 2027
Thu 28 Jan - Gateshead, The Glasshouse
Fri 29 Jan - Edinburgh, Queens Hall
Sat 30 Jan - Holmfirth, Picturedrome
Sun 31 Jan - Buxton, Opera House
Tue 02 Feb - Lytham, Lowther Pavilion
Wed 03 Feb - Stamford, Corn Exchange
Thur 04 Feb - Norwich, Epic Studio
Fri 05 Feb - London, Union Chapel
Sun 07 Feb - Frome, Cheese & Grain
Tickets: https://www.robbenford.com/tour
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Across a career spanning more than five decades, Robben Ford has collaborated with such luminaries as Joni Mitchell, Miles Davis, George Harrison, Bonnie Raitt and Bob Dylan.
As a solo artist, his live shows are a rare chance to witness a true innovator at the height of his powers; a guitar master who blends blues, rock, jazz and fusion into something entirely his own.
Two Shades Of Blue highlights a musician at the top of his game.
Tracked in the US and UK with two different crack-squad bands, the album paints with his Ford’s inimitable palette, from the low-slung funk-blues of lead single 'Make My Own Weather' to skyscraping instrumentals such as 'Two Shades of Blue' and the brass-bolstered soul ballad, 'Perfect Illusion,' all showcasing the prowess of a player ranked amongst the 100 Greatest Guitarists Of The 20th Century by Musician Magazine.
Robben Ford – UK Tour 2027
Thu 28 Jan - Gateshead, The Glasshouse
Fri 29 Jan - Edinburgh, Queens Hall
Sat 30 Jan - Holmfirth, Picturedrome
Sun 31 Jan - Buxton, Opera House
Tue 02 Feb - Lytham, Lowther Pavilion
Wed 03 Feb - Stamford, Corn Exchange
Thur 04 Feb - Norwich, Epic Studio
Fri 05 Feb - London, Union Chapel
Sun 07 Feb - Frome, Cheese & Grain
Tickets: https://www.robbenford.com/tour
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Big Country Redux, led by Bruce Watson, a founding member of Big Country alongside the late & great Stuart Adamson, will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of The Seer with 15 shows through November & December (see tour poster further below).
The Seer, Big Country’s third album, featured 'Look Away,' the band’s biggest hit in the UK.
The title track featured a duet between Stuart Adamson and Kate Bush.
Supporting on all dates is "Evan Peters Presents The Alarm"
Tickets go on sale from 10am on Friday 29th May.
The band will also be releasing the album Eastworld on 18th September.
The album consists of ten brand new recordings of Big Country songs originally written or co-written by Stuart Adamson, which were released as demos or sketches, but never fully developed or completed.
"Some of these songs will be known to the diehards as they have sneaked out from the archives as unfinished demos or 'internet only' releases," says Bruce Watson. "But they are all songs that deserved to be developed further, so I am delighted to have now completed them and get this material out there."
Pre-save/ order Eastworld here: https://slinky.to/Eastworld
The title track will be released as the first single on June 5th, but a taster has already been made available via the song 'Winter Sky.'
The Seer, Big Country’s third album, featured 'Look Away,' the band’s biggest hit in the UK.
The title track featured a duet between Stuart Adamson and Kate Bush.
Supporting on all dates is "Evan Peters Presents The Alarm"
Tickets go on sale from 10am on Friday 29th May.
The band will also be releasing the album Eastworld on 18th September.
The album consists of ten brand new recordings of Big Country songs originally written or co-written by Stuart Adamson, which were released as demos or sketches, but never fully developed or completed.
"Some of these songs will be known to the diehards as they have sneaked out from the archives as unfinished demos or 'internet only' releases," says Bruce Watson. "But they are all songs that deserved to be developed further, so I am delighted to have now completed them and get this material out there."
Pre-save/ order Eastworld here: https://slinky.to/Eastworld
The title track will be released as the first single on June 5th, but a taster has already been made available via the song 'Winter Sky.'
Big Country Redux features Bruce Watson (guitar/vocals), his son Jamie Watson (guitar/vocals), Tommie Paxton (vocals/guitar), Chris Stones (bass), and Reece Dobbin (drums). Jamie has been performing with his father since 2003, while Paxton & Stones performed together in noted Big Country tribute band, Restless Natives.
Stuart Adamson, Bruce Watson, bassist Tony Butler and drummer Mark Brzezicki made an immediate impact with Big Country debut album The Crossing (1983), which sold over 2 million copies; it also earned three Grammy nominations. Second album Steeltown (1984) went straight to Number 1.
The band, who amassed 17 Top 30 UK singles, also toured with such luminaries as Page & Plant, David Bowie, and the Rolling Stones ("One of the best opening bands we ever had" - Mick Jagger).
Bruce Watson reunited with Butler and Brzezicki in 2007 to celebrate the band’s 25th anniversary.
Mike Peters from The Alarm and Jamie Watson joined the band in 2011; in 2013 the band, with Derek Forbes (ex Simple Minds) on bass, recorded an album of original material called The Journey.
Stuart Adamson, Bruce Watson, bassist Tony Butler and drummer Mark Brzezicki made an immediate impact with Big Country debut album The Crossing (1983), which sold over 2 million copies; it also earned three Grammy nominations. Second album Steeltown (1984) went straight to Number 1.
The band, who amassed 17 Top 30 UK singles, also toured with such luminaries as Page & Plant, David Bowie, and the Rolling Stones ("One of the best opening bands we ever had" - Mick Jagger).
Bruce Watson reunited with Butler and Brzezicki in 2007 to celebrate the band’s 25th anniversary.
Mike Peters from The Alarm and Jamie Watson joined the band in 2011; in 2013 the band, with Derek Forbes (ex Simple Minds) on bass, recorded an album of original material called The Journey.
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Acclaimed singer-songwriter Hollie Rogers has just released her new album, Everything’s Fine.
Purchase the album here: www.hollierogers.com/store
The release is supported by a fifth and final single, 'He Reminds Me Of You.'
"This song explores the pull of something that feels familiar yet dangerous," says Hollie of the uptempo and infectious Americana-pop styled number. "It captures a blurred line between comfort and risk, and the enormous tension that comes from feelings you might wish you didn't have."
Hollie Rogers is currently on the road with her Everything’s Fine Tour, which features a mix of intimate duo shows and full band performances. Full itinerary and ticket links here: https://www.hollierogers.com/
Purchase the album here: www.hollierogers.com/store
The release is supported by a fifth and final single, 'He Reminds Me Of You.'
"This song explores the pull of something that feels familiar yet dangerous," says Hollie of the uptempo and infectious Americana-pop styled number. "It captures a blurred line between comfort and risk, and the enormous tension that comes from feelings you might wish you didn't have."
Hollie Rogers is currently on the road with her Everything’s Fine Tour, which features a mix of intimate duo shows and full band performances. Full itinerary and ticket links here: https://www.hollierogers.com/
Following the emotional turbulence that defined her 2022 album Criminal Heart, Hollie Rogers took an unexpected turn in her personal story when she became engaged to the very person who inspired the record.
For a brief, hopeful moment, life settled into a gentler rhythm. Everything, it seemed, was fine… until it wasn’t.
New album Everything’s Fine was born from that tension, the collision of romance, responsibility, and the quiet chaos of adult life – the results are a candid, relatable collection of songs for anyone who is struggling to hold it together whilst insisting that they’re doing just fine.
"Everything’s Fine aims to capture life in all its messy, brilliant, unpredictable moments," explains and expands Hollie. "Some songs hit hard, some make you smile, and some do both. I wanted to tell stories that feel real and connect emotionally. Basically, life happens and this is the soundtrack."
Born and raised in Cornwall, Hollie Rogers has since earned glowing praise from some of the most respected names in songwriting, including Suzanne Vega ("a magnificent and powerful voice"), Chris Difford ("Hollie’s songwriting always knocks me out"), Ralph McTell ("a sensitive and observant songwriter") and Nick Mason ("reminiscent of Carole King and Joni Mitchell"). Praise doesn't come much higher.
While rooted in Americana, Everything’s Fine weaves together elements of blues, Laurel Canyon folk, Burlesque and pop. The album also brings together a cast of long-time friends and new creative partners, including contributions from Beth Nielsen Chapman, Elles Bailey and The Budapest Symphony Orchestra.
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For a brief, hopeful moment, life settled into a gentler rhythm. Everything, it seemed, was fine… until it wasn’t.
New album Everything’s Fine was born from that tension, the collision of romance, responsibility, and the quiet chaos of adult life – the results are a candid, relatable collection of songs for anyone who is struggling to hold it together whilst insisting that they’re doing just fine.
"Everything’s Fine aims to capture life in all its messy, brilliant, unpredictable moments," explains and expands Hollie. "Some songs hit hard, some make you smile, and some do both. I wanted to tell stories that feel real and connect emotionally. Basically, life happens and this is the soundtrack."
Born and raised in Cornwall, Hollie Rogers has since earned glowing praise from some of the most respected names in songwriting, including Suzanne Vega ("a magnificent and powerful voice"), Chris Difford ("Hollie’s songwriting always knocks me out"), Ralph McTell ("a sensitive and observant songwriter") and Nick Mason ("reminiscent of Carole King and Joni Mitchell"). Praise doesn't come much higher.
While rooted in Americana, Everything’s Fine weaves together elements of blues, Laurel Canyon folk, Burlesque and pop. The album also brings together a cast of long-time friends and new creative partners, including contributions from Beth Nielsen Chapman, Elles Bailey and The Budapest Symphony Orchestra.
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An iconic Scottish music venue is set to host a return of live music the historic seaside town of Ayr.
The Ayr Pavilion, still known affectionately by the back-in-the-day music fans and locals as "The Piv," is about to enter a new Chapter as a live music venue, much as it was in decades past, particularly the fondly remembered late 1970s and 80s when Iron Maiden, New Order, Madness, The Waterboys, Rory Gallagher, Nazareth, Marillion, Saxon, Gary Numan, The Specials, The Pretenders, The Skids, Uriah Heep, Lindisfarne and so many more notables graced the stage.
The Ayr Pavilion, still known affectionately by the back-in-the-day music fans and locals as "The Piv," is about to enter a new Chapter as a live music venue, much as it was in decades past, particularly the fondly remembered late 1970s and 80s when Iron Maiden, New Order, Madness, The Waterboys, Rory Gallagher, Nazareth, Marillion, Saxon, Gary Numan, The Specials, The Pretenders, The Skids, Uriah Heep, Lindisfarne and so many more notables graced the stage.
Reintroducing itself to the live circuit as a 650 capacity standing and 250 seated venue, the Ayr Pavilion’s programme will carry a renewed focus on live rock, touring artists, heritage acts and high-quality tribute productions.
However, there will also be a broad mix of live music events throughout the year, creating a vibrant calendar that will appeal to both touring artists and local audiences.
Situated on the Ayr seafront, the Pavilion has long been a landmark for entertainment in the region, hosting countless performances that have helped shape Scotland’s live music culture. The revitalised venue will feature a state-of-the-art house PA system, supported by a professional in-house technical team able to provide full production and venue support where required.
"We're really looking forward to welcoming live gigs back to 'The Piv'," says venue owner Curtis Briggs.
"Its history speaks for itself, and there's a lot more music in the old lady yet!"
However, there will also be a broad mix of live music events throughout the year, creating a vibrant calendar that will appeal to both touring artists and local audiences.
Situated on the Ayr seafront, the Pavilion has long been a landmark for entertainment in the region, hosting countless performances that have helped shape Scotland’s live music culture. The revitalised venue will feature a state-of-the-art house PA system, supported by a professional in-house technical team able to provide full production and venue support where required.
"We're really looking forward to welcoming live gigs back to 'The Piv'," says venue owner Curtis Briggs.
"Its history speaks for itself, and there's a lot more music in the old lady yet!"
Ian McCaig of Plan B Events, the team behind the WinterStorm Rock Festival in nearby Troon, is working with the venue to help shape and promote the live programme through the remainder of the year and into 2027.
"The Ayr Pavilion was pivotal for so many of us kids of the seventies and eighties, providing us with so many memorable gigs through the years, comments Ian. It will be so good to hear live rock music on that stage again. I can't wait!"
The Pavilion team is now actively engaging with agents, promoters and tour managers to build a diverse programme of live performances, with the aim of re-establishing itself as a key destination for touring artists across Scotland’s west coast.
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"The Ayr Pavilion was pivotal for so many of us kids of the seventies and eighties, providing us with so many memorable gigs through the years, comments Ian. It will be so good to hear live rock music on that stage again. I can't wait!"
The Pavilion team is now actively engaging with agents, promoters and tour managers to build a diverse programme of live performances, with the aim of re-establishing itself as a key destination for touring artists across Scotland’s west coast.
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All-star rock band The Western Front (featuring Scott Gorham, Marty Walsh, Darrell Verdusco, Richard Moon Calhoun, Derek Bergmann and Dennis O'Donnell) have released a new single entitled 'Rain.'
The song is lifted from their unreleased, near-mythical album Eureka, which will finally see the light of day on 10th July via Music Theories Recordings/Artone Label Group.
'Rain' follows previous single 'Set Me Free,' which was the first song to be released from the album.
Pre-order/ pre-save the album here: https://lnk.to/thewesternfront
The song is lifted from their unreleased, near-mythical album Eureka, which will finally see the light of day on 10th July via Music Theories Recordings/Artone Label Group.
'Rain' follows previous single 'Set Me Free,' which was the first song to be released from the album.
Pre-order/ pre-save the album here: https://lnk.to/thewesternfront
The roots of Eureka can be traced to Los Angeles in 1980 when, following a run of acclaimed but fleeting bands, two session aces, Marty Walsh & Derek Bergmann, joined up with fellow guitarist and writing partner, Dennis O'Donnell.
The trio then added singer Richard "Moon" Calhoun, followed by Walsh tapping his old friend, Thin Lizzy’s Scott Gorham.
Through 1983 & 1984 the band, now including Darrell Verdusco, wrote, recorded and tracked what would become the Eureka album.
However, right after Atlantic Records promised a major-label deal, a label upheaval swept Eureka off the schedule.
Fast-forward 40 years to 2023, when a Stockholm record man heard a couple of Western Front tracks online, prompting him to ask why the album never saw the light of day.
At the recommendation of friend and Toto’s Steve Lukather, Marty Walsh was able to strike a deal with the Mascot Label Group.
The result is The Western Front’s 'Eureka' moment, four decades later than expected.
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The trio then added singer Richard "Moon" Calhoun, followed by Walsh tapping his old friend, Thin Lizzy’s Scott Gorham.
Through 1983 & 1984 the band, now including Darrell Verdusco, wrote, recorded and tracked what would become the Eureka album.
However, right after Atlantic Records promised a major-label deal, a label upheaval swept Eureka off the schedule.
Fast-forward 40 years to 2023, when a Stockholm record man heard a couple of Western Front tracks online, prompting him to ask why the album never saw the light of day.
At the recommendation of friend and Toto’s Steve Lukather, Marty Walsh was able to strike a deal with the Mascot Label Group.
The result is The Western Front’s 'Eureka' moment, four decades later than expected.
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Multi-national, US based rock band LEVARA, who formed around and featured American guitarist Trev Lukather, French singer Jules Galli and British drummer Josh Devine, have reunited to celebrate the fifth Anniversary of their multi-faceted self-titled debut album, available now on Mascot Records as a remastered Digital Deluxe re-release with three bonus tracks. Stream here: https://lnk.to/LEVARA
The band will also tour Europe in November.
Show and ticket info here: https://www.bandsintown.com/a/15646075
The album release has been accompanied by one of the bonus tracks, Show Me The Way, as a single, which features Steve Perry on backing vocals (Perry also features on the accompanying video, which includes footage from the band's original run).
The band will also tour Europe in November.
Show and ticket info here: https://www.bandsintown.com/a/15646075
The album release has been accompanied by one of the bonus tracks, Show Me The Way, as a single, which features Steve Perry on backing vocals (Perry also features on the accompanying video, which includes footage from the band's original run).
When LEVARA released their modern-meets-classic debut album, the music world was potentially at their feet. Sadly, the band’s first foray was to be short-lived; something they are determined to now rectify.
"The stars have aligned for LEVARA to reunite and give this album the opportunity it deserves," says Trev Lukather. "The past five years brought growth, hard lessons, and experience. Looking back, it feels like it was all meant to unfold this way. We needed that time to see how much Levara means to us. And we’re just getting started."
Alongside Trev Lukather, Jules Galli and Josh Devine, the album also features Steve Perry on backing vocals (three songs), David Paich on piano (two songs) and Sam Porcaro on bass, who also featured in the touring band.
LEVARA – Remastered Digital Deluxe Re-release. Track Listing:
Heaven Knows; Automatic; Ever Enough; On For The Night; Allow; Can't Get Over; Chameleon; Ordinary; Just A Man; No One Above You; Show Me The Way (Bonus Track); Who I Am (Bonus Track); All On Us (Bonus Track)
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"The stars have aligned for LEVARA to reunite and give this album the opportunity it deserves," says Trev Lukather. "The past five years brought growth, hard lessons, and experience. Looking back, it feels like it was all meant to unfold this way. We needed that time to see how much Levara means to us. And we’re just getting started."
Alongside Trev Lukather, Jules Galli and Josh Devine, the album also features Steve Perry on backing vocals (three songs), David Paich on piano (two songs) and Sam Porcaro on bass, who also featured in the touring band.
LEVARA – Remastered Digital Deluxe Re-release. Track Listing:
Heaven Knows; Automatic; Ever Enough; On For The Night; Allow; Can't Get Over; Chameleon; Ordinary; Just A Man; No One Above You; Show Me The Way (Bonus Track); Who I Am (Bonus Track); All On Us (Bonus Track)
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American hard melodic rockers Night Ranger have announced the forthcoming release of their new Best Of album, due 28th August via Frontiers Music Srl.
The album, which will be available on CD and Double LP Vinyl (in Black, Gold, or Orange Splatter), features newly remixed & remastered versions of the band’s classic hits alongside some of the best tracks from their more recent releases.
Pre-order here: https://ffm.bio/nightranger-bestof
As a taster, the new remaster of 1982 hit 'Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026)' has been released, with official visualizer video.
The album, which will be available on CD and Double LP Vinyl (in Black, Gold, or Orange Splatter), features newly remixed & remastered versions of the band’s classic hits alongside some of the best tracks from their more recent releases.
Pre-order here: https://ffm.bio/nightranger-bestof
As a taster, the new remaster of 1982 hit 'Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026)' has been released, with official visualizer video.
The Best Of also features two bonus tracks - a fresh take on 'Wasted Time,' recorded live off the floor at Sweetwater Studios (accompanied by an exclusive music video), and a festive live performance of 'Feliz Navidad.' The Japan release of the album features a third bonus track, 'Hole In The Sun.'
Best Of - Track Listing:
Don't Tell Me You Love Me (2026); (You Can Still) Rock in America (2026); Sister Christian (2026); When You Close Your Eyes (2026); Four in the Morning (2026); Breakout; Tomorrow; Growin' Up in California; Time of Our Lives; High Road; No Time to Lose Ya; Somehow Someway; Truth; Don't Let Up; Only For You Only; Wasted Time - Live at Sweetwater Studios (Bonus Track); Feliz Navidad - Live (Bonus Track); Hole In The Sun (Bonus Track Japan)
Night Ranger:
Jack Blades: Lead Vocals, Bass; Brad Gillis: Guitars; Kelly Keagy: Lead Vocals, Drums; Keri Kelly: Guitars; Eric Levy: keyboards
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Best Of - Track Listing:
Don't Tell Me You Love Me (2026); (You Can Still) Rock in America (2026); Sister Christian (2026); When You Close Your Eyes (2026); Four in the Morning (2026); Breakout; Tomorrow; Growin' Up in California; Time of Our Lives; High Road; No Time to Lose Ya; Somehow Someway; Truth; Don't Let Up; Only For You Only; Wasted Time - Live at Sweetwater Studios (Bonus Track); Feliz Navidad - Live (Bonus Track); Hole In The Sun (Bonus Track Japan)
Night Ranger:
Jack Blades: Lead Vocals, Bass; Brad Gillis: Guitars; Kelly Keagy: Lead Vocals, Drums; Keri Kelly: Guitars; Eric Levy: keyboards
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The Anchoress (aka Welsh singer-songwriter-creative Catherine Anne Davies) has released a new single, 'Damsels.'
The song, like previous single 'I Had A Baby Not A Lobotomy,' will feature on highly anticipated third studio album, As We Once Were, scheduled for release on 7th August.
"Damsels sets the tone for the central concerns of the album: what it has meant to be a woman across history" explains The Anchoress. "The song takes you on a Manics-style rifle through a history lesson of feminist icons: eight women across the centuries who were all banging on a window that refused to open.
The title is deliberate: I wanted to reclaim the idea of the "damsel in distress." I look back at my mum and her mother before her, and all I see was strength. "We are made of Welsh steel," she used to say to me.
The damsel in distress was never their story. And it was never mine either.
Musically speaking, I was deep in a Cocteau Twins obsession when I wrote Damsels, which made asking Eaves Wilder to guest feel like the obvious move. She is extraordinary on it."
The song, like previous single 'I Had A Baby Not A Lobotomy,' will feature on highly anticipated third studio album, As We Once Were, scheduled for release on 7th August.
"Damsels sets the tone for the central concerns of the album: what it has meant to be a woman across history" explains The Anchoress. "The song takes you on a Manics-style rifle through a history lesson of feminist icons: eight women across the centuries who were all banging on a window that refused to open.
The title is deliberate: I wanted to reclaim the idea of the "damsel in distress." I look back at my mum and her mother before her, and all I see was strength. "We are made of Welsh steel," she used to say to me.
The damsel in distress was never their story. And it was never mine either.
Musically speaking, I was deep in a Cocteau Twins obsession when I wrote Damsels, which made asking Eaves Wilder to guest feel like the obvious move. She is extraordinary on it."
As regards the new album, Catherine expands: "I was given access to Pete Townshend’s collection of vintage analogue synthesisers to produce an epic 14-track widescreen exploration of the nature of time and transformation.
Against the backdrop of the birth of my daughter (after the multiple losses documented on The Art Of Losing) and the discovery of my grandmother’s voice on a long lost cassette tape in her mother’s attic, I found myself asking the question: ‘What can we build out of the past? Are we destined to be held down by it? Can we ever return to these past versions of ourselves?’
This is As We Once Were. I really think it’s my best work to date. And you know what a perfectionist I am."
As We Once Were will be available as 2LP (with two colour options), Gatefold CD with Booklet, Hardback 2CD Media Book Edition, and Strictly limited edition Cassette Album.
Pre-order: https://shop.lastnightfromglasgow.com/products/the-anchoress-as-we-once-were-vinyl-lp-cd-cassette-lossless-dl
In promotion of As We Once Were, there will be a special, one-off Album Launch Show at London’s legendary 100 Club on Saturday August 22nd.
Tickets, which are very limited, can be purchased here:
https://www.seetickets.com/event/the-anchoress/100-club/3625711
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Against the backdrop of the birth of my daughter (after the multiple losses documented on The Art Of Losing) and the discovery of my grandmother’s voice on a long lost cassette tape in her mother’s attic, I found myself asking the question: ‘What can we build out of the past? Are we destined to be held down by it? Can we ever return to these past versions of ourselves?’
This is As We Once Were. I really think it’s my best work to date. And you know what a perfectionist I am."
As We Once Were will be available as 2LP (with two colour options), Gatefold CD with Booklet, Hardback 2CD Media Book Edition, and Strictly limited edition Cassette Album.
Pre-order: https://shop.lastnightfromglasgow.com/products/the-anchoress-as-we-once-were-vinyl-lp-cd-cassette-lossless-dl
In promotion of As We Once Were, there will be a special, one-off Album Launch Show at London’s legendary 100 Club on Saturday August 22nd.
Tickets, which are very limited, can be purchased here:
https://www.seetickets.com/event/the-anchoress/100-club/3625711
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French progressives Lalu, formed by and around keyboardist and composer Vivien Lalu, will release their latest album A Mythmaker’s Demise on July 31st via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-order here: https://ffm.bio/lalu-amythmakersdemise
The album has been preceded by lead-off single 'Prince With The Swift Warning,' of which Vivian Lalu says “is inspired by Watership Down, one of (singer) Martin LeMar’s favourite animated films. The track reflects its themes of exile and survival, unfolding as a journey toward a safer place, carried by strong melodies and a driving progressive feel.”
Pre-order here: https://ffm.bio/lalu-amythmakersdemise
The album has been preceded by lead-off single 'Prince With The Swift Warning,' of which Vivian Lalu says “is inspired by Watership Down, one of (singer) Martin LeMar’s favourite animated films. The track reflects its themes of exile and survival, unfolding as a journey toward a safer place, carried by strong melodies and a driving progressive feel.”
A Mythmaker’s Demise also celebrates the 20th anniversary of Vivien Lalu’s progressive rock project, which began in 2005 with Oniric Metal.
To mark the occasion, Lalu reunites with vocalist Martin LeMar (Nachtgeschrei, Mekong Delta), whose voice first defined the project. Also making a triumphant return is drumming legend Simon Phillips (ex-Toto, Protocol); Phillips was the drummer on the earliest Lalu track, 'Paint the Sky.'
Continuing the collaborative spirit that was such a part of 2023’s The Fish Who Wanted To Be King, Vivien Lalu has once again teamed up with longtime partner Joop Wolters on guitars and bass. The duo crafted the songs from the ground up, focusing on organic, dynamic arrangements with no overproduction.
"We wanted this record to feel alive. No drum samples, next to no EQ, just real performances captured in their natural state," explains Vivien Lalu.
"This album came together very naturally, and locking in with the real, unedited live drums by Simon Phillips in the final stages was the icing on the cake," adds Joop Wolters.
"It truly feels like a real band, just like back in the good old days!"
The title A Mythmaker’s Demise reflects on the fading light of human imagination in the age of artificial intelligence. The striking artwork by Mattias Norén portrays a writer dying at his desk, while his creations struggle to escape into a world that no longer values them - a visual metaphor for the album’s deeper message.
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To mark the occasion, Lalu reunites with vocalist Martin LeMar (Nachtgeschrei, Mekong Delta), whose voice first defined the project. Also making a triumphant return is drumming legend Simon Phillips (ex-Toto, Protocol); Phillips was the drummer on the earliest Lalu track, 'Paint the Sky.'
Continuing the collaborative spirit that was such a part of 2023’s The Fish Who Wanted To Be King, Vivien Lalu has once again teamed up with longtime partner Joop Wolters on guitars and bass. The duo crafted the songs from the ground up, focusing on organic, dynamic arrangements with no overproduction.
"We wanted this record to feel alive. No drum samples, next to no EQ, just real performances captured in their natural state," explains Vivien Lalu.
"This album came together very naturally, and locking in with the real, unedited live drums by Simon Phillips in the final stages was the icing on the cake," adds Joop Wolters.
"It truly feels like a real band, just like back in the good old days!"
The title A Mythmaker’s Demise reflects on the fading light of human imagination in the age of artificial intelligence. The striking artwork by Mattias Norén portrays a writer dying at his desk, while his creations struggle to escape into a world that no longer values them - a visual metaphor for the album’s deeper message.
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Noted Canadian roots rock and soul band Bywater Call have released a new single titled 'No One Else.'
Following on from the dreamy soul of 'Only' and the R&B slow burn of ''How Long,' the band's third single of the year is available on all streaming platforms via https://linktr.ee/bywatercall
All three tracks will feature on their forthcoming fourth studio album, Broken Souvenirs, set for release on July 29th. Pre-order here: https://bywatercall.com/
"No One Else is a reflection of how, in the current world of manipulation and misinformation, we continue to allow deceitfulness to cause harm," says Bywater Call guitarist Dave Barnes of the atmospheric, retro-soul number. "In the end, we have the strength within to defeat evil and take back our own power. If we don’t, there is no one else to blame but ourselves."
Following on from the dreamy soul of 'Only' and the R&B slow burn of ''How Long,' the band's third single of the year is available on all streaming platforms via https://linktr.ee/bywatercall
All three tracks will feature on their forthcoming fourth studio album, Broken Souvenirs, set for release on July 29th. Pre-order here: https://bywatercall.com/
"No One Else is a reflection of how, in the current world of manipulation and misinformation, we continue to allow deceitfulness to cause harm," says Bywater Call guitarist Dave Barnes of the atmospheric, retro-soul number. "In the end, we have the strength within to defeat evil and take back our own power. If we don’t, there is no one else to blame but ourselves."
Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Bywater Call is comprised of Meghan Parnell (vocals), Dave Barnes (guitar), Bruce McCarthy (drums), Mike Meusel (bass), Stephen Dyte (trumpet), Julian Nalli (tenor sax) and newest member, Andrew Moljgun (keys).
Their latest studio album, Shepherd, was selected as the Blues Album of the Year by UK’s Classic Rock Magazine. Their live album Sunshine was released in August 2025 to rave reviews.
Additionally, the band was nominated for the 2025 UK Blues Award for International Blues Artist of the Year for the second consecutive year. They also received multiple independent Blues Awards and Canadian Maple Blues Award nominations at the 2024 Awards Season.
Bywater Call have just undertaken a large run of European dates, which will be followed by further touring in the USA and Canada; they will also play nine dates in the UK at the top of 2027 (see below).
More info on full itinerary of dates and ticket links at: www.bywatercall.com
UK Dates 2027
27-Jan - Faversham, The Old Brewery Store
28-Jan - Southampton, The Brook
30-Jan - Exeter, Phoenix
31-Jan - Sheffield, Yellow Arch
2-Feb - York, Crescent
3-Feb - Glasgow, Oran Mor
4-Feb - Manchester, Band on the Wall
5-Feb - London, 100 Club
6-Feb - Norwich, Waterfront
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Their latest studio album, Shepherd, was selected as the Blues Album of the Year by UK’s Classic Rock Magazine. Their live album Sunshine was released in August 2025 to rave reviews.
Additionally, the band was nominated for the 2025 UK Blues Award for International Blues Artist of the Year for the second consecutive year. They also received multiple independent Blues Awards and Canadian Maple Blues Award nominations at the 2024 Awards Season.
Bywater Call have just undertaken a large run of European dates, which will be followed by further touring in the USA and Canada; they will also play nine dates in the UK at the top of 2027 (see below).
More info on full itinerary of dates and ticket links at: www.bywatercall.com
UK Dates 2027
27-Jan - Faversham, The Old Brewery Store
28-Jan - Southampton, The Brook
30-Jan - Exeter, Phoenix
31-Jan - Sheffield, Yellow Arch
2-Feb - York, Crescent
3-Feb - Glasgow, Oran Mor
4-Feb - Manchester, Band on the Wall
5-Feb - London, 100 Club
6-Feb - Norwich, Waterfront
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British blues-rock singer-guitarist Joanne Shaw Taylor has announced the forthcoming release of her new studio album The Trouble With Love.
Produced by Kevin Shirley, the album, which blends blues, rock, and soul-pop to explore the many forms love takes in our lives, is set for release on October 23rd via Journeyman Records.
Pre-order (CD, 180 gram LP (Dusty Rose colour) and Digital) here: https://shop.joanneshawtaylor.com/collections/the-trouble-with-love
To mark the announcement, JST has shared the album’s latest single, 'This Is Who I Am,' a Bond Themed arrangement/ reinterpretation of Celeste’s song about acceptance and self-love (the original Celeste version was hand-picked for the spy thriller TV series The Day of the Jackal).
Stream 'This Is Who I Am' on all platforms here: https://ffm.to/k5a8r2b
Produced by Kevin Shirley, the album, which blends blues, rock, and soul-pop to explore the many forms love takes in our lives, is set for release on October 23rd via Journeyman Records.
Pre-order (CD, 180 gram LP (Dusty Rose colour) and Digital) here: https://shop.joanneshawtaylor.com/collections/the-trouble-with-love
To mark the announcement, JST has shared the album’s latest single, 'This Is Who I Am,' a Bond Themed arrangement/ reinterpretation of Celeste’s song about acceptance and self-love (the original Celeste version was hand-picked for the spy thriller TV series The Day of the Jackal).
Stream 'This Is Who I Am' on all platforms here: https://ffm.to/k5a8r2b
'This Is Who I Am' follows a run of singles that have teased The Trouble With Love, from the fiery title track and the soul-pop of 'What Good Is My Love?' (featuring Orianthi) to the defiant, gospel-tinged blues of 'Hell Or High Water.'
The announcement of The Trouble With Love arrives amid another busy touring period for JST. Following her spring U.S. headline tour and upcoming European festival dates, she will hit the road in the summer for a new run of U.S. dates.
For full show listings, further information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.joanneshawtaylor.com/tour
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The announcement of The Trouble With Love arrives amid another busy touring period for JST. Following her spring U.S. headline tour and upcoming European festival dates, she will hit the road in the summer for a new run of U.S. dates.
For full show listings, further information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.joanneshawtaylor.com/tour
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The late and great American musician & producer Steve Cropper had an ace up his sleeve before his tragic passing in December 2025.
To anyone who knows the blues roots and R&B branches of American music, the loss of "The Colonel" was seismic. As guitarist, songwriter, producer and engineer (for not just the iconic Stax record label but on a forest of sessions and solo releases) the Tennessee soul man was the DNA that coursed through the post-war era, setting the pace of blues soul rock 'n' roll for 60-plus years.
Before his death, Steve Cropper was working on the follow-up to 2024’s Grammy nominated Friendlytown.
The results are Watching The Tide, which features an all-star cast including Eric Clapton, Brian May, Billy Gibbons and Ronnie Wood.
The album, which will be released on 28th August via Provogue/Artone Label Group, has been preceded by lead-off single 'Ticket First' featuring Eric Clapton.
To anyone who knows the blues roots and R&B branches of American music, the loss of "The Colonel" was seismic. As guitarist, songwriter, producer and engineer (for not just the iconic Stax record label but on a forest of sessions and solo releases) the Tennessee soul man was the DNA that coursed through the post-war era, setting the pace of blues soul rock 'n' roll for 60-plus years.
Before his death, Steve Cropper was working on the follow-up to 2024’s Grammy nominated Friendlytown.
The results are Watching The Tide, which features an all-star cast including Eric Clapton, Brian May, Billy Gibbons and Ronnie Wood.
The album, which will be released on 28th August via Provogue/Artone Label Group, has been preceded by lead-off single 'Ticket First' featuring Eric Clapton.
Appropriately for an album whose title references Steve Cropper’s most famous co-write (Otis Redding’s 1967 standard '(Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay'), Watching The Tide saw Steve Cropper roll back the years.
Writing alongside acclaimed songwriter/producer Jon Tiven and Midnight Hour vocalist Roger C. Reale, then tracking at Nashville’s RCA Studio C with a crack-squad including Ana Grosh (vocals), Nioshi Jackson (drums), engineer Eddie Gore (keys/percussion) and the aforementioned special guest guitarists, the 83-year-old Cropper sounds ageless and energised.
However, as Jon Tiven & Eddie Gore set to work on post-production, Steve Cropper was running out of time.
As he slowly bowed to his medical issues in late 2025, he clung on to hear the final mixes of Watching The Tide (10 of the 11 tracks were completed before his death; only 'My Angels Are Calling,' featuring Brian May & Billy Gibbons, was still a work-in-progress).
"I finished the mixes about a week-and-a-half before Steve passed and we brought a CD to him at the medical facility," recalls Tiven.
"He called me the night before he passed to tell me how much he loved it and that he was playing it for everyone who came to visit him."
Pre-order/ Save Watching The Tide here: https://lnk.to/stevecropper
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Writing alongside acclaimed songwriter/producer Jon Tiven and Midnight Hour vocalist Roger C. Reale, then tracking at Nashville’s RCA Studio C with a crack-squad including Ana Grosh (vocals), Nioshi Jackson (drums), engineer Eddie Gore (keys/percussion) and the aforementioned special guest guitarists, the 83-year-old Cropper sounds ageless and energised.
However, as Jon Tiven & Eddie Gore set to work on post-production, Steve Cropper was running out of time.
As he slowly bowed to his medical issues in late 2025, he clung on to hear the final mixes of Watching The Tide (10 of the 11 tracks were completed before his death; only 'My Angels Are Calling,' featuring Brian May & Billy Gibbons, was still a work-in-progress).
"I finished the mixes about a week-and-a-half before Steve passed and we brought a CD to him at the medical facility," recalls Tiven.
"He called me the night before he passed to tell me how much he loved it and that he was playing it for everyone who came to visit him."
Pre-order/ Save Watching The Tide here: https://lnk.to/stevecropper
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South African-born, UK based "dark blues" singer-guitarist Ross Harding, who released his first full-length release The Blood & The Blues last year, has announced a forthcoming EP titled Blues Shadows.
The EP, which will initially be a three-part singles release, explores the darker edges of Harding’s blues through his acoustically based reimaginings/ interpretations of three blues standards, the first of which, 'John The Revelator,' is out now.
Stream 'John The Revelator' here: https://artists.landr.com/JohnTheRevelator
The EP, which will initially be a three-part singles release, explores the darker edges of Harding’s blues through his acoustically based reimaginings/ interpretations of three blues standards, the first of which, 'John The Revelator,' is out now.
Stream 'John The Revelator' here: https://artists.landr.com/JohnTheRevelator
From the stark, prophetic tone of 'John The Revelator,' to the personal weight of 'Graveyard Blues' (releasing as a single 5th June) and the darker, more confrontational edge of 'If I Had Possession Over Judgement Day' (releasing as a single 10th July), the singles, and subsequent EP collective, move between confession, warning and internal struggle.
Blues Shadows marks a defining moment in Ross Harding’s Dark Blues Revival; a modern take on the genre rooted in tradition but driven by mood, space and emotional weight.
The release will be supported by the Blues Shadows 2026 UK Tour.
A Dark Blues Revival 2027 tour is also currently being booked.
The Blue Shadows Tour Dates 2026
Saturday 14th June (Blues For Brain Tumors Solo Acoustic Performance) - The Picturedrome, Northampton
Sunday 21st June - The Louisiana, Bristol
Sunday 28th June - The House Of Blues Sessions, Chiddingfold Village Hall, Godalming
Thursday 30th July - Hanger Farm Arts Centre, Totton, Southampton
Saturday 15th August 2026 (Solo Acoustic Performance) Nelly’s Retro & Vintage, Stratford-upon-Avon
Saturday 12th September 2026 (Solo Acoustic Performance) - St James Wine Vaults, Bath
Thursday 15th October 2026 (Solo Acoustic, Special Guest to Erja Lyytinen) - The Half Moon, Putney
Friday 16th October 2026 (Solo Acoustic, Special Guest to Erja Lyytinen) - The Old Brewery Store, Faversham
Tuesday 10th November 2026 (Ross Harding & The Dark Blues Band, Special Guest to
Jack J Hutchinson) - The Coulsdon Club, Coulsdon, Greater London
Ticket Links/ Info: https://linktr.ee/rossharding
Website: https://rosshardingmusic.com/
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Blues Shadows marks a defining moment in Ross Harding’s Dark Blues Revival; a modern take on the genre rooted in tradition but driven by mood, space and emotional weight.
The release will be supported by the Blues Shadows 2026 UK Tour.
A Dark Blues Revival 2027 tour is also currently being booked.
The Blue Shadows Tour Dates 2026
Saturday 14th June (Blues For Brain Tumors Solo Acoustic Performance) - The Picturedrome, Northampton
Sunday 21st June - The Louisiana, Bristol
Sunday 28th June - The House Of Blues Sessions, Chiddingfold Village Hall, Godalming
Thursday 30th July - Hanger Farm Arts Centre, Totton, Southampton
Saturday 15th August 2026 (Solo Acoustic Performance) Nelly’s Retro & Vintage, Stratford-upon-Avon
Saturday 12th September 2026 (Solo Acoustic Performance) - St James Wine Vaults, Bath
Thursday 15th October 2026 (Solo Acoustic, Special Guest to Erja Lyytinen) - The Half Moon, Putney
Friday 16th October 2026 (Solo Acoustic, Special Guest to Erja Lyytinen) - The Old Brewery Store, Faversham
Tuesday 10th November 2026 (Ross Harding & The Dark Blues Band, Special Guest to
Jack J Hutchinson) - The Coulsdon Club, Coulsdon, Greater London
Ticket Links/ Info: https://linktr.ee/rossharding
Website: https://rosshardingmusic.com/
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George Thorogood and The Destroyers have announced two June dates in England as part of the final tour of the UK, which itself forms part of the band’s ongoing The Baddest Show on Earth tour of North America and Europe.
The two shows are at the University of Wolverhampton at the Civic Hall (Monday 29th June) and The O2, London (Tuesday 30th June).
Support on both dates comes from American six-string blues-rock slinger Jared James Nichols.
Tickets are on sale now at:
https://www.thehallswolverhampton.co.uk/events/george-thorogood-the-destroyers/
https://www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/george-thorogood-destroyers
Dovetailing with the shows is the release of The Baddest Show on Earth: Greatest Hits Live, which will be released on June 12th via Craft Recordings.
The career spanning album captures performances from 1978 through 2024, highlighting the band’s reputation as one of blues rock’s most enduring live acts.
"When the lights go down, the downbeat hits and the audience erupts; all bets are off. The Destroyers are at their best when we play for the people, and these are some of our favorite, and rarest, performances from the past five decades. You wanted the baddest, you got it."
- George Thorogood.
The album will be available on CD, Digital formats and Vinyl.
The Vinyl will feature four previously unreleased tracks, while the expanded CD and Digital versions include eight unreleased performances. Physical editions also include new liner notes from Grammy Award-winning producer and blues musician Scott Billington.
The collection features some of the band’s most recognizable songs, including 'One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,' 'Bad to the Bone,' 'Move It on Over' and lead-off single, 'Who Do You Love?'
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The two shows are at the University of Wolverhampton at the Civic Hall (Monday 29th June) and The O2, London (Tuesday 30th June).
Support on both dates comes from American six-string blues-rock slinger Jared James Nichols.
Tickets are on sale now at:
https://www.thehallswolverhampton.co.uk/events/george-thorogood-the-destroyers/
https://www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/george-thorogood-destroyers
Dovetailing with the shows is the release of The Baddest Show on Earth: Greatest Hits Live, which will be released on June 12th via Craft Recordings.
The career spanning album captures performances from 1978 through 2024, highlighting the band’s reputation as one of blues rock’s most enduring live acts.
"When the lights go down, the downbeat hits and the audience erupts; all bets are off. The Destroyers are at their best when we play for the people, and these are some of our favorite, and rarest, performances from the past five decades. You wanted the baddest, you got it."
- George Thorogood.
The album will be available on CD, Digital formats and Vinyl.
The Vinyl will feature four previously unreleased tracks, while the expanded CD and Digital versions include eight unreleased performances. Physical editions also include new liner notes from Grammy Award-winning producer and blues musician Scott Billington.
The collection features some of the band’s most recognizable songs, including 'One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,' 'Bad to the Bone,' 'Move It on Over' and lead-off single, 'Who Do You Love?'
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German progressive metal band Vanden Plas will release new acoustic album, AcCult II, on June 12th via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order the album here: https://ffm.bio/accultii
The band have also released a new single in promotion of the album, 'Postcard To God.'
"Postcard To God is probably one of the most important songs in our band's history," says guitarist Stephan Lill. "It has defined our sound since the mid-2000s, much like Rainmaker did in the 1990s.
A Vanden Plas concert without this song is practically impossible; it’s an absolute fan favorite. The fact it’s possible to record this song as an acoustic version shows you can rearrange and perform a song in different ways if the foundation is right."
Pre-Order the album here: https://ffm.bio/accultii
The band have also released a new single in promotion of the album, 'Postcard To God.'
"Postcard To God is probably one of the most important songs in our band's history," says guitarist Stephan Lill. "It has defined our sound since the mid-2000s, much like Rainmaker did in the 1990s.
A Vanden Plas concert without this song is practically impossible; it’s an absolute fan favorite. The fact it’s possible to record this song as an acoustic version shows you can rearrange and perform a song in different ways if the foundation is right."
AcCult II is the highly anticipated acoustic sequel to Vanden Plas' 1996 acoustic album AcCult.
"When we released that first acoustic CD it was special to us in many ways," says Stephen Lill. "We arranged a few songs from our debut album, Colour Temple, into new acoustic versions.
Then we did the same with songs by other artists or bands that didn’t necessarily fit our usual musical style.
We’d always had it in the back of our minds to produce another acoustic CD at some point, but time flew by!
Now, with this new acoustic album, we stuck with the concept of the first AcCult CD; so AcCult II once again features acoustic versions of Vanden Plas songs, as well as two songs by other bands: Nothing Else Matters by Metallica and Boat on the River by Styx."
Additionally, John Helliwell of Supertramp makes a guest appearance on saxophone on the album’s closing track, 'You Fly.'
Vanden Plas are: Andy Kuntz (vocals), Stephan Lill (guitars), Andreas Lill (drums), Thorsten Reichert (bass), Alessandro Del Vecchio (keys).
AcCult II - track list:
Far Off Grace; Holes In The Sky; The Ghost Experiment; Boat On The River; Healing Tree; Postcard To God; Nothing Else Matters; You Fly (feat. John Helliwell)
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"When we released that first acoustic CD it was special to us in many ways," says Stephen Lill. "We arranged a few songs from our debut album, Colour Temple, into new acoustic versions.
Then we did the same with songs by other artists or bands that didn’t necessarily fit our usual musical style.
We’d always had it in the back of our minds to produce another acoustic CD at some point, but time flew by!
Now, with this new acoustic album, we stuck with the concept of the first AcCult CD; so AcCult II once again features acoustic versions of Vanden Plas songs, as well as two songs by other bands: Nothing Else Matters by Metallica and Boat on the River by Styx."
Additionally, John Helliwell of Supertramp makes a guest appearance on saxophone on the album’s closing track, 'You Fly.'
Vanden Plas are: Andy Kuntz (vocals), Stephan Lill (guitars), Andreas Lill (drums), Thorsten Reichert (bass), Alessandro Del Vecchio (keys).
AcCult II - track list:
Far Off Grace; Holes In The Sky; The Ghost Experiment; Boat On The River; Healing Tree; Postcard To God; Nothing Else Matters; You Fly (feat. John Helliwell)
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Todd Rundgren will perform four UK dates in September as part of his Damned If I Do tour, which kicks off a 40+ shows run through the US in June. Three European dates are also on the schedule, which will follow the UK shows.
Tickets for all four shows (listed below) go on sale on Friday 8th May at 10am via: aegp.uk/ToddR26
The shows on this particular tour are expected to feature plenty of fan favourite songs although, as Rundgren himself says "It’s always a challenge for me because my audience is so diverse, I never know what they’re in the mood for. I want to make sure we have all the musical ammunition we need to satisfy the spectrum."
The mercurial, trend bucking Todd Rundgren is a musician, writer, producer, cutting edge technological innovator and pioneer (with a whole host of firsts in the worlds of broadcast, graphics, video, VR, online music and interactivity).
Founding and fronting The Nazz in the late 60s, Todd Rundgren left the band in 1969 to forge both a production and solo career.
His third solo album, 1972’s seminal Something/Anything?, put him on the musical map.
Further acclaimed albums, including A Wizard, A True Star (1973), and Hermit Of Mink Hollow (1978) solidified his status as a solo artist, while Todd Rundgren’s Utopia (formed in 1974; renamed and reconfigured in 1976 as Utopia) provided a secondary, full band career.
His myriad production projects include albums by Patti Smith, Cheap Trick, Psychedelic Furs, Meat Loaf, XTC, Grand Funk Railroad, and Hall & Oates.
Since 1989, he has also, on occasion, toured as part of the Ringo Starr All-Starr Band, and composed music for Film, TV and Broadway.
Tickets for all four shows (listed below) go on sale on Friday 8th May at 10am via: aegp.uk/ToddR26
The shows on this particular tour are expected to feature plenty of fan favourite songs although, as Rundgren himself says "It’s always a challenge for me because my audience is so diverse, I never know what they’re in the mood for. I want to make sure we have all the musical ammunition we need to satisfy the spectrum."
The mercurial, trend bucking Todd Rundgren is a musician, writer, producer, cutting edge technological innovator and pioneer (with a whole host of firsts in the worlds of broadcast, graphics, video, VR, online music and interactivity).
Founding and fronting The Nazz in the late 60s, Todd Rundgren left the band in 1969 to forge both a production and solo career.
His third solo album, 1972’s seminal Something/Anything?, put him on the musical map.
Further acclaimed albums, including A Wizard, A True Star (1973), and Hermit Of Mink Hollow (1978) solidified his status as a solo artist, while Todd Rundgren’s Utopia (formed in 1974; renamed and reconfigured in 1976 as Utopia) provided a secondary, full band career.
His myriad production projects include albums by Patti Smith, Cheap Trick, Psychedelic Furs, Meat Loaf, XTC, Grand Funk Railroad, and Hall & Oates.
Since 1989, he has also, on occasion, toured as part of the Ringo Starr All-Starr Band, and composed music for Film, TV and Broadway.
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Nashville-based, Southern hued rock and roll band Parker Barrow, who return to the UK in July for five intimate club shows and two highly anticipated festival performances (see dates further below), have released a brand new single entitled 'Blinded.'
Stream here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/parkerbarrow/blinded
"Blinded was one of the first tracks written and recorded for the new album," says guitarist Alex Bender.
"The main riff sounds very Stonesy, and I approached the rhythm guitar parts how I would imagine Keith Richards would play them if he was in the band! Blinded is a good example of the less is more approach, where the beauty lies in its simplicity."
Regarding the lyrics, drummer Dylan Turner adds, "It’s easy for us as musicians to be enthralled by the world we live in, seeking validation from likes and comments that feed the flesh rather than the spirit. I wrote this as a reminder to myself to first seek the kingdom and to not forget the bigger purpose."
Stream here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/parkerbarrow/blinded
"Blinded was one of the first tracks written and recorded for the new album," says guitarist Alex Bender.
"The main riff sounds very Stonesy, and I approached the rhythm guitar parts how I would imagine Keith Richards would play them if he was in the band! Blinded is a good example of the less is more approach, where the beauty lies in its simplicity."
Regarding the lyrics, drummer Dylan Turner adds, "It’s easy for us as musicians to be enthralled by the world we live in, seeking validation from likes and comments that feed the flesh rather than the spirit. I wrote this as a reminder to myself to first seek the kingdom and to not forget the bigger purpose."
'Blinded' will feature on the band’s upcoming sophomore album Hold the Mash, due for release July 17th.
Pre-save here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/parkerbarrow/hold-the-mash-the-album
The Hold The Mash album was preceded last year by the Hold The Mash EP, which featured the singles 'Make It,' 'Novocaine,' 'The Healer' and 'Glass Eyes Cryin'.'
Tickets for the July club shows, which take in Frome (Treehouse, 17th), Stowmarket (John Peel Centre, 18th), Glasgow (Audio, 21st), Sheffield (Greystones, 22nd) and Leek (Foxlowe Arts Centre, 23rd) are on sale via:
https://planetrock.seetickets.com/tour/parker-barrow
https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Parker-Barrow.htm
https://www.weareparkerbarrow.com/tour
The band will also play Maid Of Stone Festival (Sunday 19th July) and Steelhouse Festival (Friday 24th July).
Husband-and-wife duo Megan Kane and Dylan Turner lead Parker Barrow. The name of the band is a homage to Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the infamous American bank robbers during the early 1930’s Great Depression.
In 2023 Parker Barrow expanded with the full-time inclusion of guitarist and musical director Alex Bender; the line-up is completed by Will Tipton (guitar), Kyle Priber (bass) and Eric Safka (keys).
Debut album Jukebox Gypsies was released to glowing reviews from music press and fans globally; the single 'Back To Birmingham' racked up over a million YouTube views.
In 2025 Parker Barrow released the EP Hold The Mash, and toured the UK supporting the Damn Truth, winning many new fans.
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Pre-save here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/parkerbarrow/hold-the-mash-the-album
The Hold The Mash album was preceded last year by the Hold The Mash EP, which featured the singles 'Make It,' 'Novocaine,' 'The Healer' and 'Glass Eyes Cryin'.'
Tickets for the July club shows, which take in Frome (Treehouse, 17th), Stowmarket (John Peel Centre, 18th), Glasgow (Audio, 21st), Sheffield (Greystones, 22nd) and Leek (Foxlowe Arts Centre, 23rd) are on sale via:
https://planetrock.seetickets.com/tour/parker-barrow
https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Parker-Barrow.htm
https://www.weareparkerbarrow.com/tour
The band will also play Maid Of Stone Festival (Sunday 19th July) and Steelhouse Festival (Friday 24th July).
Husband-and-wife duo Megan Kane and Dylan Turner lead Parker Barrow. The name of the band is a homage to Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the infamous American bank robbers during the early 1930’s Great Depression.
In 2023 Parker Barrow expanded with the full-time inclusion of guitarist and musical director Alex Bender; the line-up is completed by Will Tipton (guitar), Kyle Priber (bass) and Eric Safka (keys).
Debut album Jukebox Gypsies was released to glowing reviews from music press and fans globally; the single 'Back To Birmingham' racked up over a million YouTube views.
In 2025 Parker Barrow released the EP Hold The Mash, and toured the UK supporting the Damn Truth, winning many new fans.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Off the back of their recent sold-out concert at London’s Islington Garage, and winning the Young Artist of the Year award for the second year in a row at the UK Blues Awards 2026, Kent based blues rock trio The Zac Schulze Gang have announced an eight date UK Headline Tour for early 2027 (see tour poster below).
Tickets for the tour, which include their biggest London concert to date at The Islington Assembly Hall, are on sale now from:
https://www.alttickets.com/the-zac-schulze-gang-tickets
https://www.gigantic.com/the-zac-schulze-gang-tickets-gcmp/703075179
https://www.zacschulzegang.rocks/tour
Blending the sound of 70’s classic blues rock with modern alternative influences, the Zac Schulze Gang have built a loyal following around their 2025 debut album Straight To It (a title that says it all) and extensive touring around the UK and Europe, including support to the likes of Samantha Fish.
The band are fronted by singer-guitarist Zac Schulze, who is accompanied by the powerful rhythm section of his drumming brother Ben Schulze and bassist Ant Greenwell.
Their sound embodies elements of heritage classic rock acts such as AC/DC and Thin Lizzy, while nodding to contemporary influences like Turnstile, Royal Blood and Queens of the Stone Age.
Having won Emerging Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards 2024, the band followed up by winning Young Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards in both 2025 and 2026.
Tickets for the tour, which include their biggest London concert to date at The Islington Assembly Hall, are on sale now from:
https://www.alttickets.com/the-zac-schulze-gang-tickets
https://www.gigantic.com/the-zac-schulze-gang-tickets-gcmp/703075179
https://www.zacschulzegang.rocks/tour
Blending the sound of 70’s classic blues rock with modern alternative influences, the Zac Schulze Gang have built a loyal following around their 2025 debut album Straight To It (a title that says it all) and extensive touring around the UK and Europe, including support to the likes of Samantha Fish.
The band are fronted by singer-guitarist Zac Schulze, who is accompanied by the powerful rhythm section of his drumming brother Ben Schulze and bassist Ant Greenwell.
Their sound embodies elements of heritage classic rock acts such as AC/DC and Thin Lizzy, while nodding to contemporary influences like Turnstile, Royal Blood and Queens of the Stone Age.
Having won Emerging Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards 2024, the band followed up by winning Young Artist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards in both 2025 and 2026.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UK rock artist Slyder Smith has released a brand new single, 'Killing The Machine.'
Stream/ download/ play here: https://slyder-smith.ffm.to/killingthemachine
Blending punky drive, gritty guitars and catchy melodies with socially charged lyricism, 'Killing The Machine' captures the tension between modern dependence on technology and the instinct to resist it.
"This one’s about that disturbing feeling that we’re losing control," says Slyder. "We’ve built something that’s meant to serve us, but it’s starting to feel like it’s shaping us instead."
'Killing The Machine' follows the success of previous singles 'Plan To Fail' and 'Nobody’s Listening'
Produced once again by Robin Wynn Evans (Manic Street Preachers, The View, Sam Brown, Dodgy), Killing The Machine, like previous singles Plan To Fail and 'Nobody’s Listening,' marks a bold forward step for Slyder Smith’s sound, where rock guitars blend with a modern production.
A limited edition Signed CD collectable bundle is also available: https://slydersmith.com/store
Stream/ download/ play here: https://slyder-smith.ffm.to/killingthemachine
Blending punky drive, gritty guitars and catchy melodies with socially charged lyricism, 'Killing The Machine' captures the tension between modern dependence on technology and the instinct to resist it.
"This one’s about that disturbing feeling that we’re losing control," says Slyder. "We’ve built something that’s meant to serve us, but it’s starting to feel like it’s shaping us instead."
'Killing The Machine' follows the success of previous singles 'Plan To Fail' and 'Nobody’s Listening'
Produced once again by Robin Wynn Evans (Manic Street Preachers, The View, Sam Brown, Dodgy), Killing The Machine, like previous singles Plan To Fail and 'Nobody’s Listening,' marks a bold forward step for Slyder Smith’s sound, where rock guitars blend with a modern production.
A limited edition Signed CD collectable bundle is also available: https://slydersmith.com/store
Slyder Smith made his name as guitarist and backing vocalist in cult power-poppers Last Great Dreamers.
Following the release of 1994 debut album, Retrosexual, the Dreamers went on to be championed by Kerrang! magazine, who nominated them as Best New Band in 1995.
The band split two years later but reformed in 2015, racking up a further three studio albums and a live record.
In 2021, with Covid in full flow, Slyder cooked up a batch of new songs, some in styles he’d little explored in public.
The following spring, he recorded the songs with noted producer & studio engineer Pete Brown (George Harrison, Siouxsie And The Banshees, Marc Almond, The Smiths).
The results were the highly acclaimed album Charm Offensive by Slyder Smith & The Oblivion Kids, released in 2022.
Since relocating from Somerset to Scotland in 2023, Slyder Smith has set about proving he has what it takes to cross borders figuratively as well as literally.
Writing & demoing material in his home studio, Slyder has recorded a batch of songs with Robin Wynn Evans at TPot Studio in Perthshire.
Songs from these recordings are breing released through teh months of 2026, culminating in an album later this year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Following the release of 1994 debut album, Retrosexual, the Dreamers went on to be championed by Kerrang! magazine, who nominated them as Best New Band in 1995.
The band split two years later but reformed in 2015, racking up a further three studio albums and a live record.
In 2021, with Covid in full flow, Slyder cooked up a batch of new songs, some in styles he’d little explored in public.
The following spring, he recorded the songs with noted producer & studio engineer Pete Brown (George Harrison, Siouxsie And The Banshees, Marc Almond, The Smiths).
The results were the highly acclaimed album Charm Offensive by Slyder Smith & The Oblivion Kids, released in 2022.
Since relocating from Somerset to Scotland in 2023, Slyder Smith has set about proving he has what it takes to cross borders figuratively as well as literally.
Writing & demoing material in his home studio, Slyder has recorded a batch of songs with Robin Wynn Evans at TPot Studio in Perthshire.
Songs from these recordings are breing released through teh months of 2026, culminating in an album later this year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UK rock band Then Jerico, fronted by original singer & band founder Mark Shaw, have announced their FIRST (The Sound of Music) 40th Anniversary Tour.
The nine shows, which will be performed across November 2026 and January 2027 (see tour poster further below), celebrate the band’s debut album FIRST (The Sound of Music), which will be played in its entirety.
FIRST (The Sound of Music) was a Top 40 Uk Chart success that spawned four singles, including the band’s cover of Roxy Music’s 'Prairie Rose' and Top 20 hit 'The Motive' (the highest played single on BBC Radio One in 1987).
The debut album, which was critically and commercially successful worldwide, was followed by The Big Area which went on to achieve Gold status. The album, which made #4 in the UK Album Charts, included Top 20 hit single 'Big Area' (reaching #13) and two further chart singles, 'What Does It Take?' featuring Belinda Carlisle on backing vocals (#33), and 'Sugar Box' (#22).
In 2024, Mark Shaw released a 4CD Boxed Set retrospective: Then Jerico - Before The Future on Cherry Red Records, entering the Official UK National Album Chart at #50 and the Official UK National Independent Charts at #21.
The nine shows, which will be performed across November 2026 and January 2027 (see tour poster further below), celebrate the band’s debut album FIRST (The Sound of Music), which will be played in its entirety.
FIRST (The Sound of Music) was a Top 40 Uk Chart success that spawned four singles, including the band’s cover of Roxy Music’s 'Prairie Rose' and Top 20 hit 'The Motive' (the highest played single on BBC Radio One in 1987).
The debut album, which was critically and commercially successful worldwide, was followed by The Big Area which went on to achieve Gold status. The album, which made #4 in the UK Album Charts, included Top 20 hit single 'Big Area' (reaching #13) and two further chart singles, 'What Does It Take?' featuring Belinda Carlisle on backing vocals (#33), and 'Sugar Box' (#22).
In 2024, Mark Shaw released a 4CD Boxed Set retrospective: Then Jerico - Before The Future on Cherry Red Records, entering the Official UK National Album Chart at #50 and the Official UK National Independent Charts at #21.
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Legendary space rockers Hawkwind will release a Psychedelic Collection of songs on 12th June that draws together previously unheard recordings, newly reworked classics and fresh material from the current line-up.
Available on CD, 2LP, Streaming & Download, Psychedelic Selection stands as an evolving chapter in the band’s still-expanding sonic universe.
Featuring brand new studio recordings alongside previously unheard material from ongoing and unreleased projects, the album captures various facets of the band’s creative output, from cosmic psychedelia to driving space rock and experimental electronica.
By opening with two new compositions, 'Four Legs Good, Two Legs Bad' and 'There Are Fairies In The Garden,' the album offers a glimpse into a forthcoming Hawkwind project.
Elsewhere, 'The Judge And The Fisherman' and 'Goonhilly Downs' showcase the current line-up in full flight, delivering brand new material rooted in the band’s signature sound.
Psychedelic Selection also revisits key moments from Hawkwind’s past, but with fresh perspective.
'The Demented Man' and 'Those Days Of The Underground' are reimagined for the present day, while 'PSI Power' and 'The Traveller of Space' are presented in powerful live-in-the-studio recordings, capturing the energy of recent performances.
A particularly poignant highlight is 'Hurry On Sundown,' marking the final recording by guitarist Huw Lloyd-Langton with the band - a fitting and atmospheric tribute to an important contributor.
The album expands into more exploratory territory with tracks drawn from associated projects, including Dave Brock’s unreleased Dance and Trance material ('Land Of Min,' 'Out Of Luck') and Magnus Martin’s 'Ocean’s Spiral,' adding new dimensions to the Hawkwind sound world.
Blending past, present and future, Psychedelic Collection stands as both an entry point for new listeners and an essential addition for long-time fans.
Pre-order Psychedelic Collection at:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/hawkwind-psychedelic-selection-cd-edition
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/hawkwind-psychedelic-selection-double-vinyl-edition
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Available on CD, 2LP, Streaming & Download, Psychedelic Selection stands as an evolving chapter in the band’s still-expanding sonic universe.
Featuring brand new studio recordings alongside previously unheard material from ongoing and unreleased projects, the album captures various facets of the band’s creative output, from cosmic psychedelia to driving space rock and experimental electronica.
By opening with two new compositions, 'Four Legs Good, Two Legs Bad' and 'There Are Fairies In The Garden,' the album offers a glimpse into a forthcoming Hawkwind project.
Elsewhere, 'The Judge And The Fisherman' and 'Goonhilly Downs' showcase the current line-up in full flight, delivering brand new material rooted in the band’s signature sound.
Psychedelic Selection also revisits key moments from Hawkwind’s past, but with fresh perspective.
'The Demented Man' and 'Those Days Of The Underground' are reimagined for the present day, while 'PSI Power' and 'The Traveller of Space' are presented in powerful live-in-the-studio recordings, capturing the energy of recent performances.
A particularly poignant highlight is 'Hurry On Sundown,' marking the final recording by guitarist Huw Lloyd-Langton with the band - a fitting and atmospheric tribute to an important contributor.
The album expands into more exploratory territory with tracks drawn from associated projects, including Dave Brock’s unreleased Dance and Trance material ('Land Of Min,' 'Out Of Luck') and Magnus Martin’s 'Ocean’s Spiral,' adding new dimensions to the Hawkwind sound world.
Blending past, present and future, Psychedelic Collection stands as both an entry point for new listeners and an essential addition for long-time fans.
Pre-order Psychedelic Collection at:
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/hawkwind-psychedelic-selection-cd-edition
https://www.cherryred.co.uk/hawkwind-psychedelic-selection-double-vinyl-edition
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British singer-songwriter Jenny Colquitt, who has been compared to the likes of Eva Cassidy, Joni Mitchell, Alanis Morissette and KT Tunstall, has released a powerful new story-telling single, 'Peace Man.'
Of the new song, which is taken from forthcoming album Pockets Full of Rain, Jenny says: "Peace Man was written about an unsavoury encounter that was experienced by a close family member, and is based on this true story. The song takes you on the journey of this encounter and weaves through themes of faith, love, grief and manipulation. It is a hit back at using grief to manipulate a situation for personal gain.
The characters in the story are exaggerated versions of real-life events and make for a humorous yet hard hitting upbeat ballad."
Of the new song, which is taken from forthcoming album Pockets Full of Rain, Jenny says: "Peace Man was written about an unsavoury encounter that was experienced by a close family member, and is based on this true story. The song takes you on the journey of this encounter and weaves through themes of faith, love, grief and manipulation. It is a hit back at using grief to manipulate a situation for personal gain.
The characters in the story are exaggerated versions of real-life events and make for a humorous yet hard hitting upbeat ballad."
'Peace Man' is available to play/ stream here: https://hypeddit.com/jennycolquitt/peaceman
You can also purchase the single, and pre-order the album (Digital, CD, Vinyl, and related merch) via:
Single: https://jennycolquitt.bandcamp.com/track/peace-man
Album: https://jennycolquitt.bandcamp.com/album/pockets-full-of-rain-pre-order
"After a very tough year, I could not be prouder of this album, not only from an artistic perspective but as a personal triumph that represents resilience, hard work and passion," says Jenny of her third album.
"This album is one of the most creative pieces I have ever made and pushes my boundaries as a writer, incorporating new styles and instrumentation. It delves in to my inner thoughts and makes them sing; it gives a voice to the light, the dark, the colourful and everything in between; it weaves through important topics such as equality, experience, climate change and mental health. I couldn’t be more excited for you to hear it both produced, and on stage."
"Strong and expressive voice, impactful lyrics and winning melodies" - Paul Sexton (BBC Radio 2)
Official Website: https://jennycolquitt.co.uk/
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You can also purchase the single, and pre-order the album (Digital, CD, Vinyl, and related merch) via:
Single: https://jennycolquitt.bandcamp.com/track/peace-man
Album: https://jennycolquitt.bandcamp.com/album/pockets-full-of-rain-pre-order
"After a very tough year, I could not be prouder of this album, not only from an artistic perspective but as a personal triumph that represents resilience, hard work and passion," says Jenny of her third album.
"This album is one of the most creative pieces I have ever made and pushes my boundaries as a writer, incorporating new styles and instrumentation. It delves in to my inner thoughts and makes them sing; it gives a voice to the light, the dark, the colourful and everything in between; it weaves through important topics such as equality, experience, climate change and mental health. I couldn’t be more excited for you to hear it both produced, and on stage."
"Strong and expressive voice, impactful lyrics and winning melodies" - Paul Sexton (BBC Radio 2)
Official Website: https://jennycolquitt.co.uk/
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Emerging storytelling Indie-folk rock artist Alys North has released a new single, 'Replace You With.'
A highly contemporary take on acoustic-electric singer-songwriter rock, 'Relace You With' is, lyrically, a love you-hate you-(don’t) miss you number that showcases Alys North’s dynamic, raw and authentic approach to her artistry.
A highly contemporary take on acoustic-electric singer-songwriter rock, 'Relace You With' is, lyrically, a love you-hate you-(don’t) miss you number that showcases Alys North’s dynamic, raw and authentic approach to her artistry.
Raised in a small Northern Territory town before honing her skills and passion in Brisbane, Australia, Alys North can be now be found carving out her sound in venues and streets around Cardiff, as well as other parts of the UK.
With lyrics that land with striking honesty, Alys’ songwriting is unfiltered and unafraid; the results, as heard on the new single and song’s such as the Indie driven 'Monday Morning,' are a powerful mix of vulnerability and grit from an artist who refuses to hold back.
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With lyrics that land with striking honesty, Alys’ songwriting is unfiltered and unafraid; the results, as heard on the new single and song’s such as the Indie driven 'Monday Morning,' are a powerful mix of vulnerability and grit from an artist who refuses to hold back.
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Award-winning British blues & roots artist Sunjay has announced the forthcoming release of his latest studio/ covers album, Split The Sheets, which will be available from 18th September.
Pre-order the album here: https://www.sunjay.tv/
Following lead-off single, a cover of Jimmy Reed's Take Out Some Insurance (which received airplay on BBC Radio 2) comes a second taster in the shape of Stephen Bruton's 'That's Love.'
Rather than presenting it as a gentle roots interpretation, or similar to the country honky-tonk original, Sunjay's version is fuller bodied, leaning into groove, energy, and warmth. Built around a band performance, the arrangement blends blues, Americana and classic pop.
"This song captures love exactly as it is, joyful, chaotic, and impossible to control," says Sunjay. "We wanted the recording to feel just as alive as the lyric."
Sunjay is set to appear on BBC Radio 2's The Blues Show with Cerys Matthews on Monday 30th March.
Pre-order the album here: https://www.sunjay.tv/
Following lead-off single, a cover of Jimmy Reed's Take Out Some Insurance (which received airplay on BBC Radio 2) comes a second taster in the shape of Stephen Bruton's 'That's Love.'
Rather than presenting it as a gentle roots interpretation, or similar to the country honky-tonk original, Sunjay's version is fuller bodied, leaning into groove, energy, and warmth. Built around a band performance, the arrangement blends blues, Americana and classic pop.
"This song captures love exactly as it is, joyful, chaotic, and impossible to control," says Sunjay. "We wanted the recording to feel just as alive as the lyric."
Sunjay is set to appear on BBC Radio 2's The Blues Show with Cerys Matthews on Monday 30th March.
On the new album, Sunjay continues: "Split The Sheets is a very significant record for me. It’s the final covers record I’ll be making, and so closes a long chapter of interpretation and learning. It also allowed me to take everything I’ve absorbed over the years and use it without restraint. I didn’t want a polite record, I wanted something with weight and emotional honesty. This album feels like a statement and a turning point."
Praise for Sunjay
"One of the UK’s finest young Blues stars." - Iain Anderson, BBC Radio Scotland,
"A very accomplished and dynamic guitarist, with echoes of a young Ralph McTell." - RNR Magazine.
"One of the best young pickers and singers around." - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
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Praise for Sunjay
"One of the UK’s finest young Blues stars." - Iain Anderson, BBC Radio Scotland,
"A very accomplished and dynamic guitarist, with echoes of a young Ralph McTell." - RNR Magazine.
"One of the best young pickers and singers around." - Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
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Renowned singer-songwriter Justin Hayward, The Voice of the Moody Blues, will be back out on the road in October with his band for his The Story In Your Eyes UK Tour.
Tickets for the twelve shows are on sale now, excepting the Truro Town Hall show in Cornwall (on sale from 18th May).
Tickets are available from ticketline.co.uk, ticketmaster.co.uk and the venues direct.
The tour is named for one of Justin’s many compositions for The Moody Blues, which was released as a single 55 years ago and featured on the band’s seventh album Every Good Boy Deserves Favour, which reached No. 1 on the UK Album Chart, and placed No. 2 for three weeks in the US.
"So many of the venues we are playing this year hold warm and special memories for me going right back," reflects Justin. "Music brings us a world of imagination and I am looking forward to being right there in the middle of that."
Tickets for the twelve shows are on sale now, excepting the Truro Town Hall show in Cornwall (on sale from 18th May).
Tickets are available from ticketline.co.uk, ticketmaster.co.uk and the venues direct.
The tour is named for one of Justin’s many compositions for The Moody Blues, which was released as a single 55 years ago and featured on the band’s seventh album Every Good Boy Deserves Favour, which reached No. 1 on the UK Album Chart, and placed No. 2 for three weeks in the US.
"So many of the venues we are playing this year hold warm and special memories for me going right back," reflects Justin. "Music brings us a world of imagination and I am looking forward to being right there in the middle of that."
Justin Hayward OBE, of the iconic Moody Blues, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, penned numerous Moodies hits including the masterful ‘Nights in White Satin’, ‘Tuesday Afternoon’, ‘Question’, ‘The Voice,’ ‘I Know You’re Out there Somewhere’ and In Your Wildest Dreams.’
Each helped lay the foundation for the incredible success story of the Moody Blues, as well as his dovetailing, and later, solo work, with albums such as Songwriter, Night Flight, Moving Mountains, Classic Blue with Mike Batt, and The View From the Hill.
In 1978 he had huge global success with 'Forever Autumn,' created for, and lifted from Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds, and starring in its spectacular live production.
His Spirits Of The Western Sky album (2013) was followed by the Spirits…Live DVD, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Video chart.
In 2020, Justin took to YouTube for the Tuesday Afternoon Video Series; this led to the digital album Tuesday Afternoons: The Audio Files. In 2021 he released the songs 'One Summer Day and 'My Juliette' followed by 'Living For Love' in 2022. In 2025 he released 'Life In a Northern Town' with Mike Batt.
Justin spent much of 2023 and 2024 on the road, and on the sea, with two On The Blue cruises.
He also undertook a sell-out co-headlining tour in the USA with Christopher Cross.
Last year, he completed the Forever Autumn tour of the UK, as well as multiple dates across the US.
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Each helped lay the foundation for the incredible success story of the Moody Blues, as well as his dovetailing, and later, solo work, with albums such as Songwriter, Night Flight, Moving Mountains, Classic Blue with Mike Batt, and The View From the Hill.
In 1978 he had huge global success with 'Forever Autumn,' created for, and lifted from Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds, and starring in its spectacular live production.
His Spirits Of The Western Sky album (2013) was followed by the Spirits…Live DVD, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Video chart.
In 2020, Justin took to YouTube for the Tuesday Afternoon Video Series; this led to the digital album Tuesday Afternoons: The Audio Files. In 2021 he released the songs 'One Summer Day and 'My Juliette' followed by 'Living For Love' in 2022. In 2025 he released 'Life In a Northern Town' with Mike Batt.
Justin spent much of 2023 and 2024 on the road, and on the sea, with two On The Blue cruises.
He also undertook a sell-out co-headlining tour in the USA with Christopher Cross.
Last year, he completed the Forever Autumn tour of the UK, as well as multiple dates across the US.
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Award-winning British blues icon Robin Trower has announced a short run of UK tour for the Autumn (see tour poster below).
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Robin-Trower.htm
The evergreen Robin Trower has been in an incredibly rich vein of form in recent years with a slew of acclaimed studio albums including Come and Find Me (2025), Joyful Sky, featuring Sari Schorr (2023), and No More Worlds To Conquer (2022).
Earlier this year Robin Trower released One Moment In Time: Live In The USA, which showcased the Godfather of Tone in full flight.
Recorded during his Summer 2025 USA tour, the album features newer songs and classic gems, including 'Day of the Eagle.'
Tickets: https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Robin-Trower.htm
The evergreen Robin Trower has been in an incredibly rich vein of form in recent years with a slew of acclaimed studio albums including Come and Find Me (2025), Joyful Sky, featuring Sari Schorr (2023), and No More Worlds To Conquer (2022).
Earlier this year Robin Trower released One Moment In Time: Live In The USA, which showcased the Godfather of Tone in full flight.
Recorded during his Summer 2025 USA tour, the album features newer songs and classic gems, including 'Day of the Eagle.'
Talking about the live shows, Robin says "I prefer this format because I have more freedom.
In a three-piece, everybody is trying to make up for the missing instrument. We’ve got Richard Watts on bass and vocals: a wonderful voice, great musician. Then there’s Chris Taggart on drums, another fantastic musician. We’ve been working together now for a good ten years’ now, and I’m very fortunate to play with guys of this calibre."
In a three-piece, everybody is trying to make up for the missing instrument. We’ve got Richard Watts on bass and vocals: a wonderful voice, great musician. Then there’s Chris Taggart on drums, another fantastic musician. We’ve been working together now for a good ten years’ now, and I’m very fortunate to play with guys of this calibre."
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Award-winning Danish roots rocking octet Thorbjørn Risager & The Black Tornado will release Live At Hotel Cecil on 19th June via Provogue/Artone.
Pre-Order here: https://lnk.to/Risager
To dovetail with the announcement, the band have released a groovin' and blues blistering version of 'Hold My Lover Tight' as a single.
Pre-Order here: https://lnk.to/Risager
To dovetail with the announcement, the band have released a groovin' and blues blistering version of 'Hold My Lover Tight' as a single.
Situated in the heart of Copenhagen Hotel Cecil, which has been home to a Jazz house and a Playhouse, originally served as a meeting place, lecture hall, and administrative hub for the women’s emancipation movement in Denmark when it was built in 1936.
The show was recorded at the band’s sold-out performance on 29th November 2025, one of the final gigs of the House of Sticks winter tour.
"Hotel Cecil has a certain intimacy," says Thorbjørn Risager. "It’s big enough to have power, but still close enough that you can really feel the faces in front of you. That kind of room invites you to dig deeper, both musically and emotionally. There’s a history in places like that. You can feel that many stories have unfolded there."
"We always approach a live show with respect for the music, for each other, and for the audience," he continues. "It’s never just about playing the songs as they are on the record. It’s about creating a moment that only exists that night."
In February, the band revealed the first taster from the album, the slow and smouldering 'Said I Was Hurt.' This song, along with 'Already Gone,' 'Long Time Ago,' 'House of Sticks,' and 'Inner Light,' is one of five tracks taken from latest studio album, House of Sticks.
'Hold My Lover Tight' is one of four taken from 2017's Change My Game.
Thorbjørn Risager (vocals, guitar), Emil Balsgaard (organ, keys), Joachim Svensmark (guitars), Kasper Wagner (baritone sax), Hans Nybo (tenor sax), Peter W Kehl (trumpet), Søren Bøjgaard (bass) and Martin Seidelin (drums, percussion) - have won four Danish Music Awards (with seven nominations), Best Band in the European Blues Awards and the prestigious German Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik Jahrespreis (German Record Critics' Awards).
They’ve sold over 100,000 physical albums and surpassed 32 million streams, all while blazing a trail worldwide with more than 1500 shows.
They've opened for Bonnie Raitt, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, jammed with the legendary Buddy Guy and even picked up a fan in Elwood Blues himself, Dan Aykroyd, who hailed their "Hot rhythm and blues."
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The show was recorded at the band’s sold-out performance on 29th November 2025, one of the final gigs of the House of Sticks winter tour.
"Hotel Cecil has a certain intimacy," says Thorbjørn Risager. "It’s big enough to have power, but still close enough that you can really feel the faces in front of you. That kind of room invites you to dig deeper, both musically and emotionally. There’s a history in places like that. You can feel that many stories have unfolded there."
"We always approach a live show with respect for the music, for each other, and for the audience," he continues. "It’s never just about playing the songs as they are on the record. It’s about creating a moment that only exists that night."
In February, the band revealed the first taster from the album, the slow and smouldering 'Said I Was Hurt.' This song, along with 'Already Gone,' 'Long Time Ago,' 'House of Sticks,' and 'Inner Light,' is one of five tracks taken from latest studio album, House of Sticks.
'Hold My Lover Tight' is one of four taken from 2017's Change My Game.
Thorbjørn Risager (vocals, guitar), Emil Balsgaard (organ, keys), Joachim Svensmark (guitars), Kasper Wagner (baritone sax), Hans Nybo (tenor sax), Peter W Kehl (trumpet), Søren Bøjgaard (bass) and Martin Seidelin (drums, percussion) - have won four Danish Music Awards (with seven nominations), Best Band in the European Blues Awards and the prestigious German Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik Jahrespreis (German Record Critics' Awards).
They’ve sold over 100,000 physical albums and surpassed 32 million streams, all while blazing a trail worldwide with more than 1500 shows.
They've opened for Bonnie Raitt, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, jammed with the legendary Buddy Guy and even picked up a fan in Elwood Blues himself, Dan Aykroyd, who hailed their "Hot rhythm and blues."
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Award-winning Finnish singer-guitarist Erja Lyytinen has announced her 50th Anniversary Rock Blues Birthday UK Tour, which takes in seven dates in October (See tour poster below).
Tickets are on sale now at https://erjalyytinen.com/tour
The special 50th Birthday tour, which includes dates across Europe, will feature songs from Lyytinen’s back catalogue, which date back to 2002. The set will also perform songs from latest studio album, Smell the Roses, along with some unexpected song choices.
"I did my first tour in the UK with Blues Caravan back in 2006, so it´s been exactly twenty years now doing gigs on this music lover’s island," reminisces Erja. "I remember how exciting it was to finally do my first UK tour back then. What I loved the most was the fact that the audiences understood and related to my lyrics. The witty humour and friendly British people simply stole my heart.
"This year I’m celebrating the big number of turning 50, but I still feel as that 15-year-old girl who fell in love with the electric guitar by listening to guitarists like Tony Iommi and Richie Blackmore, and wanting to travel around the world to play for audiences. This year we have updated our set list with some old gems and surprise numbers, so it´s going to be a lot of fun to come to the UK for a birthday tour!"
Tickets are on sale now at https://erjalyytinen.com/tour
The special 50th Birthday tour, which includes dates across Europe, will feature songs from Lyytinen’s back catalogue, which date back to 2002. The set will also perform songs from latest studio album, Smell the Roses, along with some unexpected song choices.
"I did my first tour in the UK with Blues Caravan back in 2006, so it´s been exactly twenty years now doing gigs on this music lover’s island," reminisces Erja. "I remember how exciting it was to finally do my first UK tour back then. What I loved the most was the fact that the audiences understood and related to my lyrics. The witty humour and friendly British people simply stole my heart.
"This year I’m celebrating the big number of turning 50, but I still feel as that 15-year-old girl who fell in love with the electric guitar by listening to guitarists like Tony Iommi and Richie Blackmore, and wanting to travel around the world to play for audiences. This year we have updated our set list with some old gems and surprise numbers, so it´s going to be a lot of fun to come to the UK for a birthday tour!"
Erja Lyytinen is one of the leading blues-rock guitarists on the international touring circuit.
During a recording career spanning more than 20 years, the high-flying Finnish musician has released thirteen studio albums and several live albums.
Lyytinen’s musical pallet is vast, encompassing the very best of contemporary blues rock, hard rock and touches of progressive rock, whilst inspired and influenced by the blues greats of yore.
Her current studio album, Smell the Roses, released in 2025, was ranked #6 on the UK’s Independent Blues Broadcasters chart.
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During a recording career spanning more than 20 years, the high-flying Finnish musician has released thirteen studio albums and several live albums.
Lyytinen’s musical pallet is vast, encompassing the very best of contemporary blues rock, hard rock and touches of progressive rock, whilst inspired and influenced by the blues greats of yore.
Her current studio album, Smell the Roses, released in 2025, was ranked #6 on the UK’s Independent Blues Broadcasters chart.
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Revered hard rock band Little Angels, who recently announced an ultra-rare UK tour in November featuring the original line-up of Toby Jepson (vocals), Bruce Dickinson (guitars), Jim Dickinson (keys), Mark Plunkett (bass) and Mark Richardson (drums), have added three additional dates due to high demand (see tour poster further below).
Additionally, the shows in Manchester (O2 Ritz), Leeds (O2 Academy), Nottingham (Rock City) and Wolverhampton (KK's Steel Mill) now have Low Ticket Availability, while London (O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire) has Sold Out.
The last time Little Angels toured was in 2012, following their triumphant return at Download Festival.
Those shows came eighteen years after their sold-out farewell gig at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 1994.
Formed nearly forty years ago in their hometown of Scarborough, Little Angels emerged from the ashes of the NWOBHM movement, becoming one of the defining UK hard rock bands of the late 80s and early 90s.
Across their short career, Little Angels built a fiercely loyal fanbase, scoring eleven UK Top 40 singles and four hit albums, including Jam, which reached #1 in 1993.
Alongside their own sold-out headline tours, they shared stages with such giants as Van Halen, Guns N’ Roses, Aerosmith, ZZ Top, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi and Faith No More.
Adding to the sense of occasion, long-time friend and contemporary Luke Morley of Thunder will support on all dates.
"I think this will be a fantastic celebration of that amazing time when Thunder and Little Angels both broke through," comments Luke. "There’s a lot of people out there that were really into both bands, so I think I’m going to have to throw in a couple of Thunder tunes; it would be rude not to!"
Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/little-angels-tickets/artist/3005347
Additionally, the shows in Manchester (O2 Ritz), Leeds (O2 Academy), Nottingham (Rock City) and Wolverhampton (KK's Steel Mill) now have Low Ticket Availability, while London (O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire) has Sold Out.
The last time Little Angels toured was in 2012, following their triumphant return at Download Festival.
Those shows came eighteen years after their sold-out farewell gig at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 1994.
Formed nearly forty years ago in their hometown of Scarborough, Little Angels emerged from the ashes of the NWOBHM movement, becoming one of the defining UK hard rock bands of the late 80s and early 90s.
Across their short career, Little Angels built a fiercely loyal fanbase, scoring eleven UK Top 40 singles and four hit albums, including Jam, which reached #1 in 1993.
Alongside their own sold-out headline tours, they shared stages with such giants as Van Halen, Guns N’ Roses, Aerosmith, ZZ Top, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi and Faith No More.
Adding to the sense of occasion, long-time friend and contemporary Luke Morley of Thunder will support on all dates.
"I think this will be a fantastic celebration of that amazing time when Thunder and Little Angels both broke through," comments Luke. "There’s a lot of people out there that were really into both bands, so I think I’m going to have to throw in a couple of Thunder tunes; it would be rude not to!"
Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/little-angels-tickets/artist/3005347
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The Bootleg Beatles, the highly acclaimed Fab Four tribute, have announced dates and details of their forthcoming ICONIC UK tour, which will focus on seven famous legendary appearances on stage and TV by The Beatles.
Tickets for the thirteen shows, which all take place through December 2026, are on sale now from:
bootlegbeatles.com/gigs/
With more than a little help from their orchestra, the multi-media ICONIC shows will plot the course of The Beatles’ rise to fame from the Liverpool Cavern, when Ringo first joined the band in August 1962, to their London rooftop finale in January 1969.
Including re-enactments of their record breaking 1965 Shea Stadium concert in New York and the global satellite TV broadcast of 'All You Need Is Love,' this is a very special, must-see show for all Beatles and music fans.
The Bootleg Beatles – ICONIC UK Tour, December 2026
Saturday 5th – De Montfort Hall, LEICESTER
Sunday 6th – Philharmonic Hall, LIVERPOOL
Tuesday 8th – Usher Hall, EDINBURGH
Wednesday 9th – Royal Concert Hall, GLASGOW
Thursday 10th – Bridgewater Hall, MANCHESTER
Friday 11th – City Hall, NEWCASTLE
Saturday 12th – Royal Concert Hall, NOTTINGHAM
Monday 14th – Barbican, YORK
Tuesday 15th – Symphony Hall, BIRMINGHAM
Wednesday 16th – City Hall, SHEFFIELD
Friday 18th – Utilita Arena, CARDIFF
Saturday 19th – Brighton Centre, BRIGHTON
Sunday 20th – Bristol Beacon, BRISTOL
"Just incredible… you are in the room with The Beatles" – Jeremy Vine on 5
"The magic of perfect Illusion" – Rolling Stone.
"The Bootleg Beatles knock it out of the park" – Liverpool Echo
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Tickets for the thirteen shows, which all take place through December 2026, are on sale now from:
bootlegbeatles.com/gigs/
With more than a little help from their orchestra, the multi-media ICONIC shows will plot the course of The Beatles’ rise to fame from the Liverpool Cavern, when Ringo first joined the band in August 1962, to their London rooftop finale in January 1969.
Including re-enactments of their record breaking 1965 Shea Stadium concert in New York and the global satellite TV broadcast of 'All You Need Is Love,' this is a very special, must-see show for all Beatles and music fans.
The Bootleg Beatles – ICONIC UK Tour, December 2026
Saturday 5th – De Montfort Hall, LEICESTER
Sunday 6th – Philharmonic Hall, LIVERPOOL
Tuesday 8th – Usher Hall, EDINBURGH
Wednesday 9th – Royal Concert Hall, GLASGOW
Thursday 10th – Bridgewater Hall, MANCHESTER
Friday 11th – City Hall, NEWCASTLE
Saturday 12th – Royal Concert Hall, NOTTINGHAM
Monday 14th – Barbican, YORK
Tuesday 15th – Symphony Hall, BIRMINGHAM
Wednesday 16th – City Hall, SHEFFIELD
Friday 18th – Utilita Arena, CARDIFF
Saturday 19th – Brighton Centre, BRIGHTON
Sunday 20th – Bristol Beacon, BRISTOL
"Just incredible… you are in the room with The Beatles" – Jeremy Vine on 5
"The magic of perfect Illusion" – Rolling Stone.
"The Bootleg Beatles knock it out of the park" – Liverpool Echo
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Esteemed American guitarist Eric Johnson has announced an 11-date UK tour in July and August.
Tickets are on sale now at https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Johnson.htm
And https://www.ericjohnson.com/tour
Tickets are on sale now at https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Eric-Johnson.htm
And https://www.ericjohnson.com/tour
One of the most outstanding instrumentalists in rock over the past 40 years, Texas guitarist Eric Johnson was already a legend before he recorded his first album.
By the early 1980s, many celebrated guitarists were singing the praises of the "skinny kid from Austin," with comparisons made to such greats as Jeff Beck and Jimi Hendrix.
With the release of his 1986 solo debut album Tones, the guitarist finally emerged onto the scene fully formed, and a front cover of Guitar Player magazine.
With following album, 1990’s platinum-selling Ah Via Musicom (which featured the Grammy Award winning song 'Cliffs of Dover'), Eric Johnson became an international guitar phenomenon.
Since that 1986 debut, Eric Johnson has released seventeen solo albums, as well as albums with other artists such as jazz guitarist Mike Stern, and the platinum-selling G3 Live with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai.
In 2024 Johnson was a featured performer on the Experience Hendrix 2024 Tour, which crossing the US from Washington state to Florida; he rejoined in March and April 2025 for the Experience Hendrix 2025 Tour through further parts of the US, and Canada.
August of 2025 saw the first dates of his Texaphonic tour, featuring a set of new blues rock power trio material.
The Texaphonic tour continues in the US from April through May 2026, including a headlining appearance at the Austin Blues Festival.
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By the early 1980s, many celebrated guitarists were singing the praises of the "skinny kid from Austin," with comparisons made to such greats as Jeff Beck and Jimi Hendrix.
With the release of his 1986 solo debut album Tones, the guitarist finally emerged onto the scene fully formed, and a front cover of Guitar Player magazine.
With following album, 1990’s platinum-selling Ah Via Musicom (which featured the Grammy Award winning song 'Cliffs of Dover'), Eric Johnson became an international guitar phenomenon.
Since that 1986 debut, Eric Johnson has released seventeen solo albums, as well as albums with other artists such as jazz guitarist Mike Stern, and the platinum-selling G3 Live with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai.
In 2024 Johnson was a featured performer on the Experience Hendrix 2024 Tour, which crossing the US from Washington state to Florida; he rejoined in March and April 2025 for the Experience Hendrix 2025 Tour through further parts of the US, and Canada.
August of 2025 saw the first dates of his Texaphonic tour, featuring a set of new blues rock power trio material.
The Texaphonic tour continues in the US from April through May 2026, including a headlining appearance at the Austin Blues Festival.
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Francis Rossi will undertake a brand new tour-show titled Songbook: Quo – Past, Present, Future from September through to November 2026.
Tickets for all shows go on sale on Friday 30th January at 10am from:
www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/francis-rossi/
Fans can also register to gain access to the Presale on Thursday 29th January at: https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/francis-rossi-presale/
Additionally, and available for the first time on this tour, are strictly-limited VIP Soundcheck Experience tickets.
Of the new show, Francis Rossi says "I have put together a really packed new show for Autumn of this year. I’ll be keeping a whole lot of the hits in the set, of course, but also mixing it up with a couple of curveballs. These theatre shows are a great way to really connect with the audience, and try something a little bit different."
Francis Rossi will once again be joined by guitarist Andy Brook, who appeared on the 2025 Songbook tour. Brook also co-produced Rossi’s new solo album The Accidental, which is released January 30th.
Tickets for all shows go on sale on Friday 30th January at 10am from:
www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/francis-rossi/
Fans can also register to gain access to the Presale on Thursday 29th January at: https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/francis-rossi-presale/
Additionally, and available for the first time on this tour, are strictly-limited VIP Soundcheck Experience tickets.
Of the new show, Francis Rossi says "I have put together a really packed new show for Autumn of this year. I’ll be keeping a whole lot of the hits in the set, of course, but also mixing it up with a couple of curveballs. These theatre shows are a great way to really connect with the audience, and try something a little bit different."
Francis Rossi will once again be joined by guitarist Andy Brook, who appeared on the 2025 Songbook tour. Brook also co-produced Rossi’s new solo album The Accidental, which is released January 30th.
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Sweden’s melodic rock champions Europe will undertake 19 shows across the UK and Europe next October, in a 40th Anniversary celebration of their seminal 1986 album The Final Countdown.
The album catapulted the group to international fame on the back of the title track single, which reached No1 in 25 countries around the globe.
The multi-platinum selling album was a Top 10 album in 15 countries, including three No.1 slots (Sweden, Spain, Finland, Switzerland). It spent over 60 weeks on the US Billboard chart, where it peaked at #8.
With the continued success of the song 'The Final Countdown' into the digital age, the band received an award from YouTube in 2022 for the first Swedish band ever to receive One Billion views for any one song (as of today it’s close to 1.4 Billion views).
The Final Countdown 40th Anniversary tour, which will travel across 12 countries, includes three dates in the UK (Glasgow, Wolverhampton, London).
The shows will consist of a career retrospective set list, culminating in the band playing The Final Countdown album in its entirety.
2026 will also see the release of the band's as yet untitled 12th studio record, which was recorded at RMV studios in Stockholm with famed producer Tom Dalgety (Ghost, The Pixies, Royal Blood, Opeth).
Special Guests on the whole tour will be Canada’s rock 'n' roll hot shots The Damn Truth, who have just come off a successful headline tour of the UK.
Scottish rock stalwarts GUN will also be appearing as Very Special Guests on all UK shows.
European dates:
October 5th Netherlands – Arnhem, Musis
October 6th France – Paris, Olympia
October 8th Spain – Barcelona, Poble Espanyol
October 9th Spain – Bilbao, Arena Miribilla
October 10th Spain – Madrid, La Cubierta
October 12th Switzerland – Lausanne, Salle Metropole
October 13th Switzerland – Zurich, Volkshaus
October 14th Italy – Milan, Alcatraz
October 16th Germany – Stuttgart, Liederhalle
October 17th Austria – Vienna, Gasometer
October 19th Germany – Berlin, Admiralspalast
October 20th Poland – Warsaw, Torwar
October 22nd Denmark – Copenhagen, Falconer
October 23rd Sweden – Gothenburg, Film Studios
October 24th Sweden – Stockholm, BK
October 26th Norway – Oslo, Sentrum Scene
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The album catapulted the group to international fame on the back of the title track single, which reached No1 in 25 countries around the globe.
The multi-platinum selling album was a Top 10 album in 15 countries, including three No.1 slots (Sweden, Spain, Finland, Switzerland). It spent over 60 weeks on the US Billboard chart, where it peaked at #8.
With the continued success of the song 'The Final Countdown' into the digital age, the band received an award from YouTube in 2022 for the first Swedish band ever to receive One Billion views for any one song (as of today it’s close to 1.4 Billion views).
The Final Countdown 40th Anniversary tour, which will travel across 12 countries, includes three dates in the UK (Glasgow, Wolverhampton, London).
The shows will consist of a career retrospective set list, culminating in the band playing The Final Countdown album in its entirety.
2026 will also see the release of the band's as yet untitled 12th studio record, which was recorded at RMV studios in Stockholm with famed producer Tom Dalgety (Ghost, The Pixies, Royal Blood, Opeth).
Special Guests on the whole tour will be Canada’s rock 'n' roll hot shots The Damn Truth, who have just come off a successful headline tour of the UK.
Scottish rock stalwarts GUN will also be appearing as Very Special Guests on all UK shows.
European dates:
October 5th Netherlands – Arnhem, Musis
October 6th France – Paris, Olympia
October 8th Spain – Barcelona, Poble Espanyol
October 9th Spain – Bilbao, Arena Miribilla
October 10th Spain – Madrid, La Cubierta
October 12th Switzerland – Lausanne, Salle Metropole
October 13th Switzerland – Zurich, Volkshaus
October 14th Italy – Milan, Alcatraz
October 16th Germany – Stuttgart, Liederhalle
October 17th Austria – Vienna, Gasometer
October 19th Germany – Berlin, Admiralspalast
October 20th Poland – Warsaw, Torwar
October 22nd Denmark – Copenhagen, Falconer
October 23rd Sweden – Gothenburg, Film Studios
October 24th Sweden – Stockholm, BK
October 26th Norway – Oslo, Sentrum Scene
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Blues Rock's resilient icon, Walter Trout, has announced a 14-date UK tour for October 2026 (see poster below).
The tour will see him play songs from not just his acclaimed back catalogue, but from his latest and highly praised album, Sign of the Times, which was released in September this year.
You can listen to and order the album here: https://lnk.to/waltertrout
Talking about returning to the UK, Walter says, "I'm always looking forward to spending time in the country of my ancestors. The audiences always help me and my band feel right at home!"
Tickets are available from https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Walter-Trout.htm
In his half-century as a street-level social observer and honest songwriter, Walter Trout has never told his fans what to think, how to feel, or where to stand politically.
But in an era when his home nation – and the wider world – is ripping at the seams over the battlelines of modern life, the iconic US bluesman's hard-rocking new album, Sign Of The Times, is a primal scream and pressure valve for all of us. "I wanted to reflect upon what's going on in the world," he explains.
"For me, writing these songs is therapy. They're not just about what's happening out there, but how it affects you in your head. Sign Of The Times just became the obvious title."
The tour will see him play songs from not just his acclaimed back catalogue, but from his latest and highly praised album, Sign of the Times, which was released in September this year.
You can listen to and order the album here: https://lnk.to/waltertrout
Talking about returning to the UK, Walter says, "I'm always looking forward to spending time in the country of my ancestors. The audiences always help me and my band feel right at home!"
Tickets are available from https://www.thegigcartel.com/Artists-profiles/Walter-Trout.htm
In his half-century as a street-level social observer and honest songwriter, Walter Trout has never told his fans what to think, how to feel, or where to stand politically.
But in an era when his home nation – and the wider world – is ripping at the seams over the battlelines of modern life, the iconic US bluesman's hard-rocking new album, Sign Of The Times, is a primal scream and pressure valve for all of us. "I wanted to reflect upon what's going on in the world," he explains.
"For me, writing these songs is therapy. They're not just about what's happening out there, but how it affects you in your head. Sign Of The Times just became the obvious title."
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Joe Jackson and his band will be back out on the road in 2026, including seven UK dates (see poster further below). The UK dates follow a major North American tour that runs from May to July 2026.
The shows will feature songs from throughout Joe Jackson’s remarkable career, as well as promote the releases of his new album Hope and Fury, which will be released worldwide on 10th April 2026.
Tickets are on sale now from www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/joe-jackson/
"Hello cruel world I’m not going away, so I might as well have my say," sings Joe Jackson on his new album, which might well be his best work yet.
Though often depicted as a chameleonic artist who constantly changes his style, Joe Jackson insists that most of his albums are in his "own mainstream" – sophisticated pop songs, using different kinds of rhythms and combinations of instruments.
At the same time, Jackson reserves the right to step away from that mainstream. His most recent 'sidestep,' Mr. Joe Jackson presents Max Champion in ‘What A Racket!’ saw him hilariously channelling a forgotten Music Hall entertainer from Edwardian England.
Hope and Fury however returns to the JJ mainstream, in the company of his on-and-off band since 2016 – "bassist for life" Graham Maby, guitarist Teddy Kumpel, and drummer Doug Yowell, augmented by Latin percussionist Paulo Stagnaro. The results are an album that might strike a fan as a cross between 2019’s Fool, 1991’s Laughter and Lust, and 1982’s Night and Day.
In keeping with the title (an ironic twist on 'Land of Hope and Glory'), this is also a more English Joe Jackson than we’ve seen for quite a while, with some songs suggesting a love/hate relationship with his homeland.
For example, 'Welcome to Burning-By-Sea' describes a fictional seaside town but turns out to be a microcosm of the whole country, while 'End of the Pier' cleverly contrasts British working-class life in 1922 with a post-pandemic version in 2022.
No, Joe Jackson is definitely not going away.
The shows will feature songs from throughout Joe Jackson’s remarkable career, as well as promote the releases of his new album Hope and Fury, which will be released worldwide on 10th April 2026.
Tickets are on sale now from www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/joe-jackson/
"Hello cruel world I’m not going away, so I might as well have my say," sings Joe Jackson on his new album, which might well be his best work yet.
Though often depicted as a chameleonic artist who constantly changes his style, Joe Jackson insists that most of his albums are in his "own mainstream" – sophisticated pop songs, using different kinds of rhythms and combinations of instruments.
At the same time, Jackson reserves the right to step away from that mainstream. His most recent 'sidestep,' Mr. Joe Jackson presents Max Champion in ‘What A Racket!’ saw him hilariously channelling a forgotten Music Hall entertainer from Edwardian England.
Hope and Fury however returns to the JJ mainstream, in the company of his on-and-off band since 2016 – "bassist for life" Graham Maby, guitarist Teddy Kumpel, and drummer Doug Yowell, augmented by Latin percussionist Paulo Stagnaro. The results are an album that might strike a fan as a cross between 2019’s Fool, 1991’s Laughter and Lust, and 1982’s Night and Day.
In keeping with the title (an ironic twist on 'Land of Hope and Glory'), this is also a more English Joe Jackson than we’ve seen for quite a while, with some songs suggesting a love/hate relationship with his homeland.
For example, 'Welcome to Burning-By-Sea' describes a fictional seaside town but turns out to be a microcosm of the whole country, while 'End of the Pier' cleverly contrasts British working-class life in 1922 with a post-pandemic version in 2022.
No, Joe Jackson is definitely not going away.
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Luminary guitarist Steve Hackett has announced an all-encompassing Best of Genesis & Solo Gems UK Tour for October 2026 (see all dates further below).
Tickets are on sale from 19th September at: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett
The seventeen dates, which culminate with a return to the Royal Albert Hall on the 26th October, will introduce two new members of Hackett’s band to his UK audiences: Swedish keyboard player Lalle Larsson replaces longtime associate Roger King, while German drummer Felix Lehrmann takes over from Craig Blundell.
Larsson and Lehrmann will take their places in the touring band alongside Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Nad Sylvan (vocals) and Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, additional keys).
"The main thing is to keep a focus on the music, which drives it all, but there will be some big changes in the band," says Steve. "Craig and Roger are amazing musicians, but I know Lalle and Felix will be equally fantastic. I’ve never worked with Lalle before but he’s brilliant, and more than qualified for the job of recreating Genesis circa 1971 to 1977. We’ve already been working with Felix, and listening to him with Jonas Reingold on bass is like a thousand iron girders coming at you at 100mph!"
Tickets are on sale from 19th September at: https://myticket.co.uk/artists/steve-hackett
The seventeen dates, which culminate with a return to the Royal Albert Hall on the 26th October, will introduce two new members of Hackett’s band to his UK audiences: Swedish keyboard player Lalle Larsson replaces longtime associate Roger King, while German drummer Felix Lehrmann takes over from Craig Blundell.
Larsson and Lehrmann will take their places in the touring band alongside Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Nad Sylvan (vocals) and Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, additional keys).
"The main thing is to keep a focus on the music, which drives it all, but there will be some big changes in the band," says Steve. "Craig and Roger are amazing musicians, but I know Lalle and Felix will be equally fantastic. I’ve never worked with Lalle before but he’s brilliant, and more than qualified for the job of recreating Genesis circa 1971 to 1977. We’ve already been working with Felix, and listening to him with Jonas Reingold on bass is like a thousand iron girders coming at you at 100mph!"
Steve Hackett’s innovative guitar-work was an integral part of the classic Genesis catalogue from Nursery Cryme (1971) to Wind And Wuthering (1977).
Over recent years a series of themed tours have spotlighted many of the Genesis albums upon which Hackett played such a key role, including a 50th anniversary celebration of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway.
The latter tour was captured for posterity with the release of The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall; a stunning audio/visual document of his show at the iconic London venue in October 2024, it was released in 2025.
In January 2024 Hackett released his most-recent studio album The Circus and The Nightwhale, which was received with critical acclaim and great reviews.
"I’m still in love with the idea of music, I absolutely adore it. It still sends shivers up and down my spine and, so far, it’s kept me sufficiently young to keep touring with gusto!" - Steve Hackett
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Over recent years a series of themed tours have spotlighted many of the Genesis albums upon which Hackett played such a key role, including a 50th anniversary celebration of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway.
The latter tour was captured for posterity with the release of The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall; a stunning audio/visual document of his show at the iconic London venue in October 2024, it was released in 2025.
In January 2024 Hackett released his most-recent studio album The Circus and The Nightwhale, which was received with critical acclaim and great reviews.
"I’m still in love with the idea of music, I absolutely adore it. It still sends shivers up and down my spine and, so far, it’s kept me sufficiently young to keep touring with gusto!" - Steve Hackett
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"A language works best when we have something interesting to say. Many music teachers never find out what their students have to say; we only tell them what they are supposed to say." - Victor Wooten