A String-Infused Reimagining of a Classic

This isn’t simply a nostalgia trip; it’s a reimagining. The ‘Starsailor With Strings: Love Is Here 25th Anniversary UK Tour’ will see the band collaborate with arranger and conductor Joe Duddell, a highly respected figure known for his work with New Order, Elbow, James, and Richard Hawley. Duddell’s expertise will elevate the already poignant melodies of ‘Love Is Here’ with a rich, orchestral texture, offering fans a fresh perspective on beloved classics.

The decision to incorporate strings stems from a pair of successful shows earlier this year at Liverpool’s Tung Auditorium. These performances led to the release of ‘Starsailor With Strings: Live From Liverpool,’ a testament to the power and beauty of this new sonic direction. The album, released via East West / Parlophone in October, has garnered critical acclaim and fueled the demand for a full-scale tour.

Lead singer James Walsh reflects on the journey, stating, “The response to the ‘Starsailor with Strings: Live from Liverpool’ gigs and, more recently, the album release has been incredible, so it made sense to continue working with Joe and the Up North String Orchestra as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of ‘Love is Here’.” He adds, “Fans continue to tell us how much our debut album means to them, so we’re excited to be playing it in full for them next year, this time with the added power and emotion of the strings!”

But what is it about ‘Love Is Here’ that continues to resonate with audiences after all these years? Is it the raw honesty of the lyrics, the captivating melodies, or the band’s ability to capture a specific moment in time? The album remains a touchstone for many, evoking memories of youthful exuberance and heartfelt emotion.

Tour Dates and Ticket Information

The tour kicks off on October 2, 2026, at the iconic London Palladium, followed by dates in Bexhill, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Poole, culminating in a final performance at Birmingham’s Town Hall on October 23. Here’s the complete schedule:

• October 2, 2026 – London, Palladium
• October 3, 2026 – Bexhill, De La Warr Pavilion
• October 17, 2026 – Edinburgh, Usher Hall
• October 18, 2026 – Manchester, Bridgewater Hall
• October 22, 2026 – Poole, Lighthouse
• October 23, 2026 – Birmingham, Town Hall

Tickets go on sale via Spotify Fans First pre-sale at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 26. General sale begins at the same time on Friday, November 28. Secure your tickets here.

Starsailor is currently completing a UK and European tour celebrating their 25th anniversary as a band, with remaining dates in London, Newcastle, Glasgow, and Manchester. Further details and tickets are available here.

In 2021, the band marked the 20th anniversary of ‘Love Is Here’ with a deluxe reissue. Frontman James Walsh previously discussed the band’s legacy with NME, addressing the notion that bands like Starsailor were merely a “stop-gap” before the emergence of The Strokes and The White Stripes. Read the full interview here.

Walsh eloquently countered this idea, stating, “One of the big misconceptions is that people were stood around waiting for The Strokes or The White Stripes to come around, like they needed this big explosion. I love The Strokes, but there’s a perception music fans needed this injection of life.” He continued, “But I remember our gigs and it was exciting to be part of the New Acoustic Movement with Turin Brakes and Coldplay. The people coming were passionate, and it certainly didn’t feel like a stopgap.”

Frequently Asked Questions About the Starsailor Tour

• What album will Starsailor be performing on the 2026 tour?
  Starsailor will be performing their debut album, ‘Love Is Here,’ in its entirety.
• Who is arranging the strings for the Starsailor tour?
  The strings are being arranged and conducted by Joe Duddell, known for his collaborations with New Order, Elbow, James, and Richard Hawley.
• When do tickets for the Starsailor tour go on sale?
  Tickets go on sale via Spotify Fans First pre-sale at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 26, with general sale starting at the same time on Friday, November 28.
• Where can I find tickets for the Starsailor ‘Love Is Here’ 25th Anniversary Tour?
  You can find and purchase tickets here.
• Is Starsailor currently touring in addition to the 2026 dates?
  Yes, Starsailor is currently on a UK and European tour celebrating 25 years since their formation.