Noel Gallagher‘s High Flying Birds are all set to embark on a monumental UK arena tour in 2023, and they’ve just unveiled an unexpected twist for the journey. The former frontman of Kasabian, Tom Meighan, has been announced as the support act for this exhilarating series of live gigs, showcasing his newfound chapter in the world of music.
The tour serves as a celebration of Gallagher and his band’s latest creation, ‘Council Skies’, a sonic journey that promises to resonate with fans in a profoundly visceral way. And now, with the addition of Tom Meighan, the stage is set for an electrifying musical experience that bridges the gap between past and present.
Meighan’s involvement with Gallagher’s crew isn’t new; he recently shared the spotlight with Gallagher during an unforgettable show in Essex on August 5th. The chemistry and camaraderie displayed during their performance seem to have paved the way for a collaborative venture that will surely captivate audiences across the UK.
Tom Meighan’s musical journey has seen its share of highs and lows. In 2020, he faced personal challenges and was convicted of abusive behavior towards his partner. Since then, he’s been candid about his struggles with alcohol addiction, acknowledging the events as a wake-up call to transform his life. Parting ways with the band he co-founded, Kasabian, Meighan embarked on a solo career, pouring his experiences and growth into his debut solo album, ‘The Reckoning’, released in May.
The choice to have Meighan on board as the support act holds deep significance. Earlier this year, he headlined Sheffield’s Be Reyt Festival, a move defended by organizers as a second chance, spotlighting his journey towards redemption and self-improvement. Record Junkee, a venue and store, along with Network, the festival organizers, extended their support to Meighan, encouraging fans to rally behind an artist striving to better himself.
The tour dates are nothing short of a musical pilgrimage, offering audiences a chance to witness the synergy between two distinct musical identities. Meighan’s energy and resilience, coupled with Gallagher’s sonic prowess, promise an unforgettable experience. The tour kicks off on December 14th at the OVO Arena in Wembley, London, and takes them through Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Glasgow, and Liverpool, culminating in a crescendo of musical brilliance.
December dates are below, thanks to NME:
DECEMBER
14 – OVO Arena Wembley, London
15 – Utilita Arena Birmingham, Birmingham
17 – Cardiff International Arena, Cardiff
18 – First Direct Arena, Leeds
20 – OVO Hydro, Glasgow
21 – M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool