News

In celebration of our 40th anniversary, we are very proud to announce our upcoming 16-date UK tour ‘James Lasted’, and a double album release, both featuring Orca 22 (a 22-piece orchestra) and a Gospel Choir.

The album will feature new versions of our greatest hits, fan favourites and will also include a brand-new track. Recorded at Blueprint Studios, Manchester with a 22-piece orchestra and gospel choir, the album is arranged and conducted by Joe Duddell. Full details including release date, track-listing and formats are to be announced soon.

The run of live dates in 2023 includes Brighton Dome, Edinburgh’s Usher Hall, Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall, Birmingham Symphony Hall, and The Royal Albert Hall, London.

Tim says, “There are a number of great bands who have been around for 40. But to get here and to be having the best time of our lives. To be part of a supportive loving family that still has something to say and new ways to say it. To be turned on by every gig and song. To fall in love over and over again, Groundhog Day, with our bandmates and audience. Damn. That’s time well spent.

We should have recorded the orchestra tour first time round, as many of you have reminded us. Well, we’ve done it now. And here comes the tour. The Orchestra and Gospel singers expand our palette, heighten the tenderness, heighten the celebration and, despite their numbers, somehow leave us feeling more naked and raw. It will be different, probably each night, because we are James and Joe knows how to dance with us. And because you are different, each night. Please leave your phones behind, come and play in the moment.”

Jim says, “Has it really been 40 years?

In some ways it feels like yesterday and in others, many lifetimes.

I’ve lived a blessed existence, being in a band I’m supremely proud of with musicians that would grace any stage. A family of brothers and sisters, willing to support each other musically and emotionally. We are bloody minded and independent to the core.

Uniquely challenging, always pushing ourselves into the new and taking risks collectively and individually, looking for transcendence.

With love, trust, and acceptance we grow.

Somewhere in a parallel universe, James are the biggest band on the planet. Here’s to another 40 years.”

We look forward to seeing many new and old faces across the dates!

Nothing but love x