John Illsley returns with his eighth studio album ‘VIII’, released through 100% Records.
The new album arrives as Illsley also confirms a slew of UK shows throughout the Spring.
New album ‘VIII’ features eight brand new songs, plus a newly recorded studio version of the classic Beatles track ‘I’m Only Sleeping’ which John performed at the virtual ‘Dear John’ concert in 2020 celebrating John Lennon’s 80th birthday. The album release follows the publication of the successful autobiography ‘My Life in Dire Straits’. This new album from John instantly evokes the classic feel and sound of the band, augmented of course with his own personal style and touch, and will be a delight to fans old and new.
John Illsley himself said, “I think all of us were affected by the odd world we found ourselves in during lockdown; songs such as ‘None Of This Was Planned’ were written and recorded at this time. The new album is a reflection of these times, but also looking back to elements of my musical past and family. ‘Long Way Back’ is a nod to my time with Dire Straits, and ‘Market Town’ my early family life in Leicestershire. I also like to throw some political or social thoughts into the mix. Oh yes, there’s a love song on there too, so all part of the balance of one’s life!!”‘
The tour that John will be undertaking in Spring 2022 will offering an evening of music and memories, a ‘Life and Times of Dire Straits’, featuring all the Dire Straits classics plus songs from the new album.
Known the world over for his work as the bassist in the massively successful Dire Straits, ‘VIII’ sees John Illsley once again delivering a beautifully observed and affecting set of songs that add yet further to that incredible musical legacy.
‘VIII’ is available for pre-order now – ahead of the official release date of 6 May 2022 – so that fans can hear the new songs ahead of UK tour dates in April and May [see below]. The album will be released on CD and as a Purple Vinyl edition, with strictly limited numbers of signed copies available via his official store: https://store.100-percent.co.uk/collections/john-illsley. Fans have already been able to enjoy a taster of the new music via the video for the lead track ‘Which Way Is Up’ which was released in January.
VIII ALBUM TRACKLISTING
1) It’s A Long Way Back / 2) I Love You Still / 3) 21st Century / 4) Market Town / 5) The Mission Song / 6) Wondering / 7) Which Way Is Up / 8) None Of This Was Planned / 9) I’m Only Sleeping
John Illsley – Spring 2022 Tour
Bognor Regis – Regis Centre & Alexandra Theatre
April 20, 2022
Wimbourne – Tivoli Theatre
April 21, 2022
Dorking – Dorking Halls
April 22, 2022
Tewkesbury – Roses Theatre
April 23, 2022
Winchester – Theatre Royal
April 24, 2022
Penistone – Paramount
April 25, 2022
Leeds – City Varieties Heritage Theatre
April 26, 2022
Spalding – South Holland Centre (tickets available soon)
April 28, 2022
Blackheath – Concert Halls
April 30, 2022
Wavendon – The Stables
May 1, 2022
Bury St Edmunds – The Apex
May 2, 2022
Southend – Palace Theatre
May 3, 2022
Teddington – Landmark Arts Centre
May 4, 2022
Herne Bay – Kings Hall
May 5, 2022
TICKETS ON SALE NOW:
https://johnillsley.com/tour
