Classically Smiths – which debuts this summer with concerts in Manchester, London and Edinburgh before a full UK tour later this year – will combine the sounds of the seminal Manchester band in a beautifully orchestrated live concert.
Sadly Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr will not part of the reunion.
However, world renowned musicians Mike Joyce, Andy Rourke and Craig Gannon will be joined by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra (Haçienda Classiçal) in a live collaboration which will deliver the music of The Smiths as you have never heard it before, with the legacy of the band brought into the here and now via an epic production.
In this unique meeting of cultures, audiences will hear their favourite iconic tracks performed by three members of The Smiths’ line up, enriched by the sounds of the UK’s most forward-thinking, experiential orchestra.
Classically Smiths will combine beautifully arranged scores, guest vocalists (to be announced) and stunning visual imagery in a production that will engage and captivate.
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The live dates are:
JUNE 28 – MANCHESTER, O2 APOLLO
JUNE 29 – LONDON, O2 ACADEMY, BRIXTON
JULY 2 – EDINBURGH, USHER HALL
The epic Classically Smiths set list will include such anthemic tracks as: There Is A Light That Never Goes Out, The Boy With The Thorn In His Side, A Rush And A Push And The Land Is Ours, Hand In Glove, How Soon Is Now?, Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want, Oscillate Wildy, Shoplifters Of The World Unite, Girlfriend In A Coma and Last Night I Dream’t That Somebody Loved Me.
Classically Smiths is presented by Bad Production Ltd. Joel Perry, executive producer and creative director, said: “Classically Smiths is bringing back into the now, from their extraordinary place in history, a reimagining of those irrepressible songs that we believe audiences, and indeed any discerning music lover, deserves to hear. Music that is as valid in 2018 as it was in 1987. Emotive, nostalgic, yet current and refreshed.”
He added: “We are not The Smiths, but we are certainly not to be missed by anyone whose lives were defined – and are still being defined – by the enduring sounds of one of the UK’s finest ever bands. This is the celebration of that.”
Joyce said: “There’ll be Smiths classics in the set, but I can’t wait to play the songs that have never been heard live before. With the addition of an orchestra, it will sound as totally unique as it will immense.
“I’m really looking forward to fans being able to hear the songs in a way they’ve never been heard before, either on record or live. On the stage, or out front, this is going to be quite an experience for us all.”
Rourke said: “To have been there the first time round and seen it first hand, and to still be such a big fan of The Smiths today, I am both thrilled and excited to be involved in Classically Smiths. I’m really proud of the band’s work, and being able to present those songs again in this particular production format promises to be a real gift for audiences everywhere.”
Gannon said: “When using an orchestra with a band, there are so many different approaches you can take. But rather than us bending something out of shape or forcing a completely different musical angle on it, we’re doing this with the greatest respect and admiration for the songs we all love.
“I played most of these songs live (and on some of the original recordings) when I was in The Smiths in 1986 and I’m really looking forward to revisiting them again.”
Bob Riley, CEO Manchester Camerata, added “For us, it’s all about the sound, energy and live performance of an orchestra. We are very excited to be collaborating with members of epic Manchester band The Smiths who were undoubtedly one of the most influential and inspirational bands of the 20th century. We will be bringing the full live orchestral experience to these iconic tunes and are delighted to be able to bring that experience to Smiths fans old and new.”
Tickets for Classically Smiths go on sale Friday January 26 from www.ticketmaster.co.uk