Elbow with Villagers + Hamish Hawk

elbow are set to headline a major outdoor concert this summer, in the stunning grounds of Englefield House, in Pangbourne, near Reading, on Sunday 21st July.

The multi-platinum-selling band fronted by Guy Garvey will perform a selection of their biggest anthems along with new material from their forthcoming album, ‘Audio Vertigo,’ due out on March 22nd.

elbow are undoubtedly one of Britain’s most loved and respected bands. After earning early support from the late John Peel with their debut EP Noisebox, elbow’s popularity soared. Over the past two decades, the Mancunians have released numerous no.1 albums, most notably their 2008 Mercury Prize-winning effort ‘The Seldom Seen Kid’, a multi-platinum selling record that opened the floodgates for further accolades, including an NME Award, Mojo Award, BRIT Award and a several Ivor Novello prizes.

Throughout their 30-year history, elbow’s critical reception has remained impressively consistent. elbow is the only band to receive four consecutive 9/10 reviews from NME for their first four records and this year, as they release their tenth studio album, an opening performance on the Graham Norton Show gives an early indication that this is a group that remains at the top of their game.

Recorded in 2023 at the band’s individual studios, Migration Studios, Gloucestershire, and finalised at the band’s facility at Blueprint Studios, Salford, the new album marks a significant step change for the group following 2021’s ‘Flying Dream 1’.

In the words of lead singer and lyricist Guy Garvey, ‘AUDIO VERTIGO’ was built from ‘gnarly, seedy grooves created by us playing together in garagey rooms’ and is both more direct and sonically varied by purpose that its predecessor.

As a live band, elbow are hard to beat. Their 2011 Glastonbury performance on the Pyramid stage is widely regarded as one of the best in the festival’s history. The band have since toured the world, earning a reputation for their euphoric live performances that continue to captivate audiences.

Fans of elbow can expect to hear material from the band’s new album along with anthemic hits from their back catalogue such as ‘One Day Like This,’ ‘Grounds for Divorce’ and ‘Open Arms’.

Promoter Giles Cooper of GCE Live said: "We can’t wait to stage this show for elbow in the beautiful grounds of Englefield. They are such an iconic band and we’ve no doubt this will be such an amazing night to remember for many years to come. Remember to get your tickets early as this show will undoubtedly sell-out”.

Support acts added!

Leading the charge are Villagers, the celebrated Irish musical ensemble fronted by the multi-talented Conor O’Brien. Recently, Villagers unveiled the forthcoming release of their sixth studio album, titled "That Golden Time". O’Brien's lyrical prowess, combined with his trademark melodic finesse, promises an album that is truly special. The lead single of the same name is a poignant reflection on the juxtaposition of romanticism and realism in life, delivered with O’Brien’s characteristic sincerity and introspection.

In crafting "That Golden Time", O’Brien invited a cadre of esteemed musicians into his creative orbit, including Irish legend Dónal Lunny and American multi-instrumentalist Peter Broderick. The result is a collection of songs that shimmer with vulnerability and authenticity, marking a new pinnacle in Villagers’ illustrious career.

Joining Villagers on the bill is the incomparable Hamish Hawk, a rising star in the Scottish indie music scene. With his latest release, "Laziest River", Hawk delivers a masterclass in introspective songwriting, channelling influences ranging from King Creosote to Jarvis Cocker. The EP's stripped-back instrumentation lays bare Hawk’s soulful lyricism, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into the artist’s creative evolution.

Described as "elegiac pop" and "gritty elegance", Hawk's music is a testament to his boundless creativity and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. As he navigates the meandering currents of "Laziest River", Hawk invites audiences to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection, one that resonates deeply in an ever-changing world.

Together, Villagers and Hamish Hawk promise an unforgettable evening of music, emotion, and transcendence at Englefield Estate. Don’t miss your chance to experience these extraordinary talents alongside the iconic sound of elbow in what is sure to be a concert for the ages.