Arab Strap Return

Duo to mark 20th anniversary with three UK gigs

Arab Strap have reunited for a trio of 20th anniversary gigs which will mark their first shows since 2006.

With three shows set for London, Manchester and Glasgow in October, the duo will also release a remix of their 1996 debut single, entitled ‘The First Big Weekend of 2016’, courtesy of Glasgow-based producer Miaoux Miaoux. That will be available for streaming and download from tomorrow.

“I think the day we went to the pub and split up, we made a joke about Arab Strap getting back together in 10 years’ time to celebrate,” says guitarist Malcolm Middleton. “So that’s basically what this is: a chance to enjoy the music we made once more.”

Aidan Moffat adds: “We wanted to celebrate it while we’re still relatively young and don’t look too embarrassing on the stage.”

The duo’s Glasgow anniversary gig will take place at the Barrowland Ballroom on October 15. They will play Manchester’s O2 Ritz on October 14 and London’s Brixton Electric on October 13. Tickets are on sale this Friday (June 17) at 9am.

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