Bury group Elbow are set to cap a magnificent year with a huge homecoming show, before vowing to “disappear” until they finish their new album.
Led by Guy Garvey the group languished in cult obscurity for years, loved by their fans but not well known outside of a lucky few. After losing a close friend Elbow retreated to a rehearsal studio, emerging with the material which would go on to form their new album.
‘The Seldom Seen Kid’ was released with little hype early in 2008. Earning rave reviews it became a word of mouth hit, supported by some spectacular live shows. Nominated for the Mercury Music Prize the odds on the album winning were slashed after a groundswell of support.
Amid emotional scenes the band picked up the award, their first step towards the mainstream. Following this Elbow crested a wave of acclaim, winning a Brit award and playing a sensational show in London’s Abbey Road studios with orchestral backing.
The new show is a very special homecoming gig, with the MEN Arena being located within a mile of Blueprint Studios where they recorded ‘The Seldom Seen Kid’.
Elbow are currently in the formative stages of their new album. The band traditionally retreat to the Scottish island of Mull to work on new material, and in recent interviews Guy Garvey has suggested that he may write an album of songs for children which would be backed by an animated film.
The award season is just about to pick up again, and it seems that ‘The Seldom Seen Kid’ may still have some legs on it. Elbow have been nominated for the prestigious Ivor Novello awards, and have found themselves in the unusual position of being the favourites at the London ceremony.
Elbow are set to play the following show:
September
18 Manchester MEN Arena
