The Stranglers have had to reschedule their final full UK tour again, this time until 2022, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The Men in Black were due to play the dates last October and November, but had to postpone them due to the Covid-19 outbreak which brought live music to a juddering halt in March 2020.
The band had already been stunned by the death on May 3 of keyboard player Dave Greenfield, whose playing was so integral to their sound, but vowed to fulfil the tour in his memory.
The dates were initially moved to March and April 2021, but with no end in sight to the pandemic, and Britain in a third national lockdown, the band have made the decision to postpone the tour again.
Fellow veterans Stiff Little Fingers recently made the decision to postpone their March 2021 UK tour to 2022, and this year’s other big punk tour, by the original line-up of The Damned, in July, must also be in doubt.
A statement issued by The Stranglers today said: “We are, once again, incredibly saddened to confirm that we have had no alternative but to reschedule the planned 2021 spring tour.
“This decision has not been taken lightly, especially as the tour has already been moved back, but the ongoing issues surrounding the Covid pandemic are continuing to play havoc with live music.
“Due to the uncertainty around the tightening of lockdown regulations in the UK and the rollout of the vaccinations over the coming months, it was decided that the tour should be postponed until early 2022.
“It has been an immense challenge to move the tour again, but ultimately we are determined to make it happen as planned from the outset.
“After almost a year of inactivity on the road, the band are all chomping at the bit to get back to playing live, but their safety, as well as that of the crew and fans, is of paramount importance.
“All purchased tickets remain valid for the new dates. We hope you understand that we have been left with no other choice and, believe us, we share your disappointment. Look forward to seeing you all on the road next year.
Formed in Guildford in 1974, The Stranglers rose to prominence during the punk explosion of the mid-70s, though they never considered themselves part of the new wave.
Despite numerous line-up changes which have left bassist JJ Burnel as the only original member, they still have a loyal following to this day. Support for all the rearranged dates will come from Ruts DC.
While they may not be checking out completely, this will be the last chance to see the band playing together in a comprehensive touring format, playing a career-spanning set.
