TWO dynamic and revered live artists are coming together for a celebration of the music of late legendary country star Patsy Cline.
In what will be a highly anticipated first visit to Wearside, acclaimed American singer, songwriter and musician John Grant will join Richard Hawley as he returns to Sunderland, this time to perform the music of Patsy Cline at The Fire Station on Thursday, September 21.
Grant, renowned for his searing wit, tenderness, and commanding stage presence, will lend his powerful vocals to the proceedings, while Richard Hawley and his band, widely considered one of the best live acts in the UK, will provide their signature sound, taking the audience on a musical journey through Cline's beloved hits.
Drawing from a songbook full of classics like Walkin' After Midnight and Crazy, audiences will hear the crème de la crème of country pop from Grant and Hawley.
Grant first came to prominence with the alternative rock band the Czars before going on to launch a solo career with his debut album Queen of Denmark in 2010.
His second album, Pale Green Ghosts was named the best album of 2013 by Rough Trade and in the following years he released a string of critically-acclaimed albums.
He is also known for his collaborations with bands and musicians such as Elbow, Elton John, Goldfrapp, Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams.
Former Longpigs and Pulp guitarist and vocalist Richard Hawley formed his first band, Treebound Story, while still at school in Sheffield. He went on to find fame as guitarist for Britpop band Longpigs in the 1990s. The indie rock band had success with singles She Said and On and On before splitting in 2000.
Hawley then toured with Britpop idols Pulp, fronted by friend and fellow Sheffield musician Jarvis Cocker.
In the two decades since Hawley jettisoned band life, the 53-year-old songwriter has forged one of the most singular and diverse careers in modern music.
Tamsin Austin, Venue Director at The Fire Station, said: This feels like a dream gig for The Fire Station.
"I am a huge fan of both John Grant and Richard Hawley and for them to collaborate to celebrate the music of one my all-time country music heroines too on this very short UK tour, will be a very special occasion and one not to be missed
“With songs spanning romance, heartbreak, and drama, infused with joy for good measure, this promises to be a sonic and visual feast that will leave a lasting impression.”
For further information or to book tickets, from £22, go to www.thefirestation.org.uk.
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