Saint Etienne, the iconic British indie electronic-pop band, is embarking on a final tour of Australia and New Zealand, marking the end of a remarkable 35-year career. This farewell tour is not just a goodbye, but a celebration of their unique style and enduring legacy. With a blend of electronic touches and swinging '60s flair, Saint Etienne has left an indelible mark on the music scene, and their tour is a testament to their enduring appeal.
The tour kicks off in Auckland's Powerstation on November 20, followed by a show in Wellington the next day. From there, the band will traverse Australia, performing in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. The tour concludes in Perth on December 1, offering fans across the region a chance to bid farewell to the band in style.
Saint Etienne's decision to tour Australia and New Zealand is particularly intriguing, given their recent release of their final studio album, 'International'. This album, which features a collaboration with Brisbane's Confidence Man, has already garnered critical acclaim and a top-10 spot on the UK Albums Chart. The band's farewell tour is a fitting send-off, allowing them to share their music with fans in a region that has been a part of their journey.
What makes Saint Etienne's farewell tour even more special is the band's history and friendship. Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs, the band's core members, have known each other since childhood, and their friendship has been the foundation of the band's success. The band's first single, a cover of Neil Young's 'Only Love Can Break Your Heart', was recorded in just two hours in a bedroom studio, and it was this raw energy that captured the hearts of fans.
The band's music has always been a blend of the familiar and the innovative. Their ability to create creamy, classic pop with electronic touches and swinging '60s flair is what sets them apart. The band's top-10 appearance on the UK Singles Chart with their collaboration with Paul Van Dyk on 'Tell Me Why (The Riddle)' is a testament to their enduring appeal.
Saint Etienne's farewell tour is not just a goodbye, but a celebration of their unique style and enduring legacy. The band's decision to tour Australia and New Zealand is a testament to their global appeal and the impact they have had on the music scene. As the tour gets underway, fans can expect an emotional and memorable experience, filled with the band's greatest hits and a final farewell to a true music icon.
