Richard Hawley is synonymous with his native city of Sheffield. He has released nine studio albums over the last twenty years, with two being nominated for the Mercury Music Prize. He is also a Brit nominee and received a South Bank Award in 2007. In 2023 he received 2 Olivier Awards for best Musical and best Music for his Musical Standing At The Sky’s Edge which was staged at The National Theatre and The Crucible in Sheffield.

Over the years, Richard has become as well known for his guitar-playing as his singing. He has duetted with Tom Jones, Nancy Sinatra and Shirley Bassey, and played with (amongst many more) Arctic Monkeys, Elbow, Paul Weller, Manic Street Preachers and Pulp, the band he played guitar with for a number of years.

Best known for his mix of classic songwriting, soothing vocals and northern grit realism, Richard is something of a unique artist in British popular music, being able to cross boundaries from one musical style to another whilst keeping intact his own strong identity.

In October 2023 his Very Best of album ‘Now then’ became his 4th top 10 album and received numerous 5/5 reviews in all media.

In February 2024 Standing At The Sky’s Edge, the Musical transferred to the Gillian Lynne Theatre at London’s West End for 8 months.

His new studio album ‘In This City They Call You Love’ will be released on 31st May 2024.

Tickets on sale now

The post Richard Hawley – Wales Warm Up Show appeared first on Glasswerk.

Tour Dates:

• 3rd April – London, The Slaughtered Lamb
• 5th April – Manchester Gullivers
• 7th April – Birmingham Hare & Hounds

Born and raised in Yorkshire, Fay Hield’s journey in folk music began in the famous Bacca Pipes Folk Club in Keighley. While studying for a Bachelor of Music in folk and traditional music at Newcastle University, Fay formed the acappella folk quartet the Witches of Elswick in 2001. Her musical pursuits led her to form a bond of community and tradition that would inspire her future work.

After a period of academic study, including completing a PhD in English folk singing and the construction of community, Fay returned to the folk scene leading a trio with Leveret’s Rob Harbron and Sam Sweeney. Her debut album, “Looking Glass,” released on Topic Records in 2010, showcased a mix of traditional songs and ballads.

Fay’s musical journey continued with the formation of the folk supergroup, The Full English, which received two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. After two years of touring with The Full English, Fay refocused on her solo career, releasing albums like “Orfeo” in 2012 and “Old Adam” in 2016.

Her latest album, “Wrackline,” released after the Modern Fairies research project, explores the space between the known and unknown, delving into themes of ghosts, fairies, spirits, and talking animals. Fay breathes new life into timeless stories, presenting them with a fresh twist and addressing contemporary social issues.

In her solo performances, Fay Hield weaves through magical stories, enveloping audiences in music and prompting contemplation about their relationship with the world. A singer with a rare gift for going straight to the heart of a song, Fay combines vision, inspiration, and outstanding musicianship, creating a fresh and original exploration of what it means to be human.

The post Fay Hield April Tour! appeared first on Glasswerk.

The Blow Monkeys have been on an extraordinary journey, consistently making new music and collaborating with a diverse range of artists. From working with icons like Curtis Mayfield, Paul Weller, Cheb Khaled, to even Jamaican Toaster EEK-a-Mouse, their commitment to socially engaged and eclectic music sets them apart.

In the 80s, The Blow Monkeys acted as a sounding board for politically engaged music, reminiscent of The Clash’s early 80s heyday. Dr Robert, the frontman, even took a detour to release one of the UK’s first homegrown ‘house’ records, “Wait,” in a top 5 duet with Chicago soul diva Kym Maselle.

Reforming in 2008, The Blow Monkeys have shown incredible productivity, releasing six new albums and performing in numerous concerts. Their latest album, “Journey To You” (2021), recorded during the lockdown, features the extraordinary single “Time Storm.” Additionally, BMG has re-released their classic 1986 album ‘Animal Magic’ as part of their “Iconic” series, available as a 4 CD boxset and a limited edition white vinyl with extra tracks and rarities.

From their beginnings on the underground club scene to appearing on the soundtrack of the biggest-selling film of all time, “Dirty Dancing” (You Don’t Own Me), The Blow Monkeys continue to evolve. As they prepare to light up Hangar 34, Liverpool, on March 13, 2024, their legacy of timeless and socially conscious music lives on.

The post 80’s Icons The Blow Monkeys Live In Liverpool appeared first on Glasswerk.

Here are the dates for the upcoming African Head Charge tour:

• 29th March – Folkestone Quarterhouse
• 30th March – Ipswich, The Baths
• 5th April – Margate, Dreamland Ballroom
• 11th April – Norwich Waterfront
• 12th April – Nottingham Metronome
• 13th April – Liverpool, Hangar 34
• 18th April – Manchester, Breadshed

African Head Charge, formed as a studio project in 1981, has achieved cult status over the years with their unique blend of live instrumentation and programmed music. Adrian Sherwood’s wizardry, combined with Bonjo Iyabinghi Noah’s percussion talents, birthed their first psychedelic African dub LP, “My Life In A Hole In The Ground,” setting the stage for a journey that spans over three decades.

The live show features a world-star lineup of performers, delivering an intoxicating soundscape of reggae-inflected drumming, visceral vocals, and thrumming bass-lines. As African Head Charge returns to the stage with a deeper, darker, and heavier live sound, they are poised to captivate both loyal fans and a new generation of admirers worldwide.

HISTORY:

• 1981: Studio project initiated, resulting in the groundbreaking “My Life In A Hole In The Ground.”
• Late 1980s: First live appearance at the University of London (ULU), instantly sold out.
• 1990: Release of the masterpiece “Songs Of Praise” LP, followed by “In Pursuit Of Shashamane Land” in 1993.
• 1995: Bonjo’s move to Ghana; 2003 marked his return, leading to “Vision Of A Psychedelic Africa” in 2005.
• 2016: Vinyl reissues of the first four albums and “Return Of The Crocodile,” unreleased tracks from the early ’80s.
• Recent Years: Live stage return with a lineup featuring original members and electronic elements from Gaudi.

African Head Charge’s live performance promises an enchanting experience, weaving a tapestry of rhythmic mastery and electronic innovation. Join us for a night of sonic exploration as African Head Charge continues to push the boundaries of dub-reggae.

The post African Head Charge: A Psychedelic Dub-Reggae Odyssey On Tour appeared first on Glasswerk.

The Orb’s latest studio album, “Prism,” set for release on April 28, 2024, has already been generating buzz as their most towering set in years. The tour will kick off with a series of dates across the UK, captivating audiences with their signature blend of ambient, acid house grooves, and futuristic soundscapes.

Here are the confirmed tour dates:

• 1st March 2024 – Bradford Underground
• 2nd March – Lancaster Kanteeena
• 16th March – Blackpool Bootleg Social
• 22nd March – Hastings Crypt
• 23rd March – Margate, The Lido
• 29th March – Hull, The Welly
• 30th March – Leicester O2 Academy2

As Alex Paterson continues to push the boundaries of ambient and electronic music, this tour promises a captivating blend of past triumphs and future sonic landscapes. The Orb’s remarkable journey, from their groundbreaking debut in the acid house revolution to the upcoming release of “Prism,” showcases their enduring commitment to sonic innovation.

Fans can expect an immersive experience as The Orb takes them on a cosmic journey through their extensive catalogue, including classics like ‘Little Fluffy Clouds’ and ‘Toxygene,’ as well as tracks from their upcoming album.

In the words of Alex Paterson, “Throughout everything, including the pandemic, I’ve continued wooing my first love of DJing. One of music’s true originals, not averse to celebrating past triumphs but still always watching the skies and looking to the future.”

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary musical odyssey. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable night with The Orb on the O.R.B.O.R.E.T.U.M Tour.

The post The Orb: O.R.B.O.R.E.T.U.M tour appeared first on Glasswerk.

Mamas Gun are masters of modern soul music. Their blend of classic and contemporary influences have sparked millions of streams worldwide and garnered praise from The Sunday Times, Billboard, The Guardian, and major radio networks around the globe & securing HUGE sync placements with major adverts and TV shows.

Collectively, the UK based group’s first releases spawned Top 10 hits on four continents including #1 singles in Asia, propelled by the band’s sold-out tours and funky, full-tilt performances at the Billboard Music Awards, plus main sagte global music festivals like Love Supreme, WOMAD, Greenroom, Java Jazz. With the release of Golden Days (2019), Mamas Gun delivered their defining masterpiece to date. A sense of joy and fun, coupled with exceptional musicianship, has always distinguished Mamas Gun from their contemporaries, It’s those qualities that catapulted their first two singles onto BBC Radio 2 playlists and helped them surpass Madonna as the #1 international act on Japan’s airplay charts. Following releases won more support from the BBC (particular on BBC 6) and solidified their draw as headliners across UK, Europe and Asia, Powering the group’s profile even higher, reaching the Top 20 on the UK’s Independent Album Chart (UK) and no 3 in KCRWs new music chart (USA)

Their latest album CURE THE JONES is the ultimate reflection of the band’s approach to song writing and recording. “Everything seems to feel consolidated,” says Andy. “I feel like this record is a high watermark, in terms of the songs, in terms of the camaraderie in the band, in terms of the outlook. I firmly believe that this is the best in the golden period of Mamas Gun.” And so the bands assessment seems to have proved right with airplay on major networks in the USA & massive surges of new support evident through their spotify stats. With tours in 8 different countries lined up over the next 12 months and their first USA tour happening in October 2022, Mamas Gun have never been in a more prominent position placing them firmly at the forefront of the modern soul scene

The post Mamas Gun On Tour! appeared first on Glasswerk.

“Love the record! Way to be! Emotionally expansive, tough and pretty…honest but WORTH IT!”

That’s a review to write home about, by any standard, and from anyone.

That it arrived unsolicited from one of the musical firmaments most eclectic and singular of wizards, Evan Dando: the fact that it was then closely followed by an impromptu video message from a nameless, but perfect Pacific beach, inviting Alex Lipinski to “come fishing” and it should be immediately clear that this isn’t ‘same old, same old’.

Liam Gallagher is a fan, which resulted in Alex belting out Elvis standards within the unlikely

domesticity of Liam’s own North London kitchen, in a surreal battle of anthems; the voice of a generation responding with a heartfelt rendition of ‘Acquiesce’ much to the amusement of Bonehead, who just happened to be there because he and Lipinski just happened to be in the middle of the critically acclaimed ‘Phoney’s & The Freaks’ collaboration, which saw them perform live together from Rome to Los Angeles.

His last album, the self-titled ‘Alex’ was produced by The Brian Jonestown Massacre’s Anton Newcombe in Berlin. Hailed by Newcombe as “a young man worth my time and efforts” and also observing that “make no mistake, these songs have all the qualities of timeless music”.

Again, this is not ‘same old, same old’.

No coincidence then that for ‘For Everything Under the Sun’, his soon to be released third album, Lipinski was sought out by Wolf Alice & Elvis Costello producer Michael Smith who had the same desire as Anton to work with a voice that Rock & Reel magazine describes as “channelling the best tones of Lennon and Orbison and makes them his own”, and songs which BBC Radio 6 legend Tom Robinson declares “sweep you up and carry you along.

“The whole creation of this record has felt somewhat like a rebirth, creatively speaking. I can’t deny the part that the last year or so has played: in that I have been forced to completely reappraise what’s important to me. These songs have mortality running through the heart of them. From a writer’s point of view this record is honest, direct, and certainly the strongest set of songs I’ve written”.

From the album’s crisp percussive opening ‘For Everything Under the Sun’ reveals itself as a melting pot of ‘Then’ liberally laced with the very finest examples of ‘Now’. This record, like everything Alex creates, wears a broken blue heart on its sleeve. Elements of The Byrds sun-soakedjangle sit teasingly across the melodic craftsmanship of Abbey Road era Beatles: the whole married to glistening harmonies which would not be out of place on Pet Sounds. 

Alex doesn’t attempt to disguise where this record comes from, or where his personal flag is planted: but somehow it remains a 21st century thing – a warm, impassioned letter of thanks to musical legacy and yet, ultimately, something altogether his own.

This is a truly articulate piece of work, from a songwriter who has served his apprenticeship. A lot of miles covered in what he himself acknowledges has been the only choice he ever had. To create. A journey which started as a schoolkid, refusing to be driven to class because by walking it left more time listening, via Walkman, to whichever CD was speaking to him in the moment, driving him to create moments of his own.

Alex argues self-deprecatingly that as complete and holistic as this record is, he “doesn’t have a Brian Wilson brain”. Perhaps not, in truth only Brian Wilson does, but the same authenticity, gift for melody and for harmony, is there.

A telling of stories and the pulling together of ephemeral things.

The hard work has been years in the getting done. All you have to do now – is listen…

…

Catch Alex Lipinski live at these dates:

The post Alex Lipinski Hits The Road For UK Tour This Winter appeared first on Glasswerk.

Los Pacaminos was formed in summer 1992, when UK pop star Paul Young’s love of all things Tex-Mex led to exploratory discussions with some like-minded musician friends. Within a few weeks, Los Pacaminos was born and rehearsals had begun. 

The band was originally a six-piece. Joining Paul were guitarist and singer Jamie Moses, accordion/keyboard player Matt Irving, singer/songwriter Drew Barfield, bassist Steve Greetham and drummer Mark Pinder. 

In November 1992, the boys took to the stage for their first ever gig at the White Horse in Richmond, Matt’s local watering-hole. They went down a storm. 

Despite expectations that the band would fall apart when something more important came along, the exact opposite happened. With every show, their friendships grew stronger, the band played tighter, and the seeds of their loyal fanbase had been sown.  

While Paul’s name was used in gig promotion, the Los Pacaminos name and the boys’ trademark stetsons made it clear this wasn’t a Paul Young show. In time, the band started writing and performing their own songs, and the boys knew this wasn’t going to be a short-term project.

In 1997, after five years of gigging, Jamie introduced Paul to Melvin Duffy, a pedal steel player he’d played with, and suggested Melvin play on a few songs at the next show. Paul remembers it well: “As soon as Mel took the first solo, we all melted. He had to be in the band, the decision wasn’t his to make!”

In 2002, as an established seven-piece band, the Pacs delighted their fans with the release of their eponymous first album. Comprising 12 original songs that ran through their influences, including the Texas Tornados, Doug Sahm, Flaco Jimenez, Roy Orbison, The Band, Chuck Berry, Ry Cooder and Calexico, ‘Los Pacaminos’ pulled in an impressive array of positive reviews. These songs, together with a number of acclaimed covers, became the backbone of their set list over the coming years.

In 2015, the boys lost their dear friend and founder member Matt Irving after a long battle with cancer. Although Matty’s boots were very big boots to fill, Steve “Woody” Oakman stepped in as the band’s accordionist a year later. Woody has been a key member ever since. 

Los Pacaminos are now in their 30th year and show no signs of hanging up their boots. With an unmatched live reputation, two acclaimed studio albums and two live albums under their belts, they continue to explore and perform the music of the Southwest.

Throughout 2023, Los Pacaminos are lining up a series of 30th anniversary shows across the UK. To coincide with the tour, and to celebrate the milestone of three decades together, the band have released their eagerly awaited new album “SEVEN” to rave reviews. 

Catch Los Pacaminos feat. Paul Young in Liverpool at Hangar 34 on December 6, 2023, for their 30th-anniversary show.

The post Los Pacaminos Feat. Paul Young Will Be Arriving In Liverpool This December! appeared first on Glasswerk.

• Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Dreamland Ballroom in Margate.
• Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Hangar 34 in Liverpool
• Friday, November 24, 2023, at The Baths in Ipswich
• Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Waterfront in Norwich, kicking off at
• Thursday, November 30, 2023, at O2 Academy Birmingham
• Friday, December 1, 2023, at Quarterhouse in Folkestone

Step into the unparalleled sonic realm of The Orb, led by the enigmatic Alex Paterson, as they continue to push the boundaries of electronic and ambient music. With a legendary career spanning over three decades, The Orb’s upcoming release, “Prism,” is causing quite a stir among critics and fans alike.

“Prism” marks their eighteenth studio album and is poised to be a milestone in their extensive discography, with early reviews suggesting that it’s their most ambitious and groundbreaking work in years. This release reaffirms The Orb’s status as true pioneers of the electronic music scene.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. In September 2023, The Orb is set to join forces once again with the iconic David Gilmour for “Metallic Spheres In Colour,” building on their successful 2010 collaboration. The blend of The Orb’s signature ambient soundscapes and Gilmour’s virtuosity promises an unmissable musical experience.

As The Orb embarks on an extensive tour, with a stop in Liverpool at Hangar 34 on Thursday, November 9, 2023, music enthusiasts can anticipate a live performance like no other. This tour promises to be a journey to uncharted musical territories, tapping into distant planets and dystopian soundscapes, solidifying “Prism” as a modern masterpiece that speaks to a new generation of music lovers.

Alex Paterson, a true original in the world of music, has maintained his love for DJing throughout his illustrious career. Whether spinning tracks at London’s WNBC or at international hotspots, his DJ sets remain a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art of sound.

Join us on these upcoming tour dates for a musical experience that defies boundaries:

Get ready to immerse yourself in The Orb’s unparalleled sonic odyssey, and be part of a musical experience that will be talked about for years to come. This is not just a concert; it’s a sonic adventure of the highest order.

The post The Orb Hits The Road In November! appeared first on Glasswerk.

Young Gun Silver Fox, comprising Andy Platts and Shawn Lee, expertly weaves together elements of soul, funk, and West Coast pop to create a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. Their seamless harmonies and infectious beats pay homage to the golden era of music while infusing it with their modern artistry.

The collaboration between Andy Platts and Shawn Lee began in 2015, setting in motion an exciting journey in the music industry. Andy’s background as a talented vocalist and songwriter combined with Shawn’s multi-instrumental prowess and production skills created the perfect synergy for Young Gun Silver Fox’s success.

Their debut album, “West End Coast,” made waves upon release, earning them praise from critics and fans alike. Subsequent albums, “AM Waves” and “Canyons,” solidified their position as rising stars with tracks that resonate deeply and captivate audiences around the world.

Given Young Gun Silver Fox’s rising popularity and Electric Ballroom’s reputation for hosting exceptional live events, securing tickets in advance is highly recommended.

The post Young Gun Silver Fox Live at Electric Ballroom appeared first on Glasswerk.