It’s been a whirlwind couple of years for James, from touring with an orchestra to securing their first number one album. Despite barely catching their breath after one of their biggest tours to date – a co-headline run with Johnny Marr that spanned five weeks across North America – the band have already announced summer dates for 2025. They’ve also revealed a special album and film release of their Live At The Acropolis performance, which was recorded at the historic Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens last July.
The tour kicks off on 31st May at Cheltenham’s Wychwood Festival, before taking the band to a selection of stunning outdoor venues, including Halifax’s Piece Hall, Thetford Forest, Cardiff Castle, and Llangollen Pavilion. The run concludes with a grand finale at Colchester Castle on 22nd August. As always, the band will be joined by a stellar lineup of familiar faces – including Shed Seven, Razorlight, Happy Mondays, Jamie Webster, Tom A Smith, The K’s, Lightning Seeds, and The Waeve. General sale tickets for the shows will be available at 10am on Friday 15th November, though those who order Live At The Acropolis from the band’s website will gain exclusive early access to tickets for select tour dates.
Set against the stunning backdrop of ancient history, Live at the Acropolis became a pinnacle moment in the band’s 2023 orchestral tour – a performance that left a lasting mark on all who witnessed it. Joined by a 22-piece symphony orchestra and an 8-piece gospel choir, conducted masterfully by composer Joe Duddell, the band transformed their setlist into something truly transcendent. Familiar hits and deep cuts alike were reimagined, with lush orchestration and soulful choral harmonies adding new layers of depth and emotion. Luckily for those who weren’t in attendance, the performance was filmed. Produced and directed by Chris Atkins, it will have its world premiere at Aviva Studios in Manchester on 10th December, followed by an exclusive Q&A with band members Tim Booth and Jim Glennie, as well as Joe Duddell.
Filmed on 16 cameras in 4k and mixed in Dolby Atmos, Live at the Acropolis is available to pre order on a multitude of formats, including double CD, blu-ray, and marble coloured triple vinyl.
