As the days begin to shorten and a hint of autumn chill fills the air, the North West is gearing up for an electrifying season of live music, promising to extend the vibrant energy of summer long into the cooler months and even into next spring. From highly anticipated performances by critically acclaimed bands to additional tour dates from legendary frontmen, the region’s music scene is set to explode with an array of must-see concerts and new album releases that will captivate fans across genres.
Richard Ashcroft, the iconic former frontman of The Verve, has announced additional UK tour dates for spring 2026, a testament to the overwhelming demand following his sold-out show at Manchester’s Co-op Live and his monumental stadium tour as a special guest to Oasis. These newly added arena performances in Cardiff, Liverpool, London, and Leeds coincide with the upcoming release of his brand-new album, ‘Lovin’ You’, due out on October 3rd, marking his first collection of all-new material since 2018.
Seminal British band Wolf Alice has unveiled details for an extensive headline tour, celebrating their recently announced fourth studio album, ‘The Clearing’, slated for an August 29th release. Fresh off their captivating performances at Radio 1’s Big Weekend and Glastonbury, the band will embark on their most ambitious tour to date, comprising 43 dates across North America, Europe, and the UK from mid-September to mid-December 2025. This expansive journey will see the quartet command some of the largest stages of their decade-long career, showcasing their evolving sound.
Kicking off a new era, The Charlatans are set to release their 14th studio album, ‘We Are Love’, on October 31st. This highly anticipated announcement follows the live debut of the album’s title track at a landmark hometown show at Castlefield Bowl. One of the UK’s most beloved bands for four decades, The Charlatans boast an impressive discography of 13 albums, 22 Top 40 singles, and three Number One albums, with timeless anthems like ‘The Only One I Know’ and ‘North Country Boy’ continuing to resonate. Their winter UK tour will include headline shows in Leeds, Stoke, Bath, London, Manchester, and Glasgow.
British new-wave pioneers, The Stranglers, have marked their 50th anniversary in 2024 with an unrelenting schedule of performances. Their upcoming UK tour follows an unforgettable summer of open-air shows at notable venues such as Southampton’s Guildhall Square, Lincoln Castle, Warwick’s St Nicholas Park, and Dreamland in Margate. Their enduring appeal ensures that fans are always eager to catch their dynamic live performances, making these upcoming concerts highly anticipated events for fans of classic British rock and new wave.
The Wombats have also confirmed additional dates for their UK and Ireland tour this December, bringing their energetic live show to even more fans. Joining them as special guests will be The Snuts on all England dates, with Overpass supporting throughout the entire tour, and Sarah Brooki and Florentenes on selected dates. These performances follow the success of their sixth studio album, ‘Oh! The Ocean’, released earlier this year, which was celebrated with major headline shows, including a significant performance at London’s O2 Arena. The new tour dates commence on December 2nd in Edinburgh, concluding in Blackpool on December 11th after stops in Aberdeen, Newcastle, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Dublin, and Belfast.
Platinum-selling indie band The Pigeon Detectives are embarking on their own UK headline tour this autumn, with support from Gravy and opening acts like Monday Made. Though they possess a refreshed energy, The Pigeon Detectives have consistently delivered captivating performances, often emerging as unexpected highlights at festivals for new listeners, while remaining a cherished must-see for their dedicated fanbase. Their consistent presence and dynamic shows promise an exciting return to the live circuit, solidifying their reputation as a band that continues to connect with audiences.
With such an incredible lineup of artists and new album releases slated for the coming months, music enthusiasts in the North West and beyond have ample reason to be excited. From intimate venues to expansive arenas, the opportunity to experience these iconic and emerging talents live is not to be missed. Secure your tickets now to ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable musical experiences, as many of these highly anticipated shows are selling fast.
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