Revered for its eclectic mix of on-stage music and comedy, Alexander’s Live is a popular location for a night out in Chester. Now the city venue has announced that a famous English rock band will be gracing it with their presence in June for a single-night show.
Formed in the UK capital in 1977, The Blockheads were originally led by punk and new wave icon Ian Dury and enjoyed critical success around the world. However, when cancer took their frontman from them in 2000, the band endured, first releasing an album dedicated to Dury in 2001, followed by many others, including a live recording featuring an anniversary performance at the famous Electric Ballroom in Camden Town.
As of spring last year The Blockheads are touring with a new line-up, with Mike Bennet on vocals duty. Mickey Gallagher plays keyboards, John Roberts is on drums, Chaz Jankel on guitar and backing vocals, John Turnbull on guitar and Nathan King on bass. The Blockheads have a changing line-up of saxophone players which includes Terry Edwards, Gilad Atzmon, Dave Lewis, and occasionally its original saxophonist Davey Payne.
Those attending the upcoming concert in Chester will get a chance to hear classic tracks from the band which play rock with jazz and reggae influences like “Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick”, “What a Waste”, and “Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3”.
The Blockheads will now play a live set at Alexander’s Live on Sunday, June 23. The venue is sited at Rufus Court in Chester; the doors to the concert will open at 7.30 pm with the show starting at 9 pm.