UK tour blog Part 2 - From one high point to another! - November 2014

Behind the scenes at Birmingham Symphony Hall
Photo © Andrea Holmes

Steve on Southend Pier

Southend welcomed us with warm sunshine, which along with the palm trees made it feel like being in the Mediterranean! I was thrilled to get down to the pier... The longest in Europe I believe at over a mile long, and a place of childhood memory with my grandmother. It was a real joy to travel to the end on the little train and then take a brisk walk back... A journey linking memory lane to an equally special moment on tour.

The gigs in Southend, Southampton and Cardiff all had a fabulous atmosphere with brilliant crowds. We received such a great welcome everywhere...

The Hammersmith show for me was the most enjoyable yet. The whole vibe was totally electric with a tremendous audience dynamic. It was great to have as singer Jakko Jakszyk, of King Crimson and also my brother John on flute for Firth of Fifth. Fabulous to see family and so many special friends there, including several who had travelled from far and wide.

Finally Salford, Guildford and Birmingham... Three equally incredible shows. The crowds at all the gigs were fantastic. It has been a terrific tour! Our thanks to Bryan and Livvy of Mostly Autumn who did a beautiful set as support. A big thank you to John Giddings, Brian Coles, the band, all team Hackett and everyone who worked hard to bring this tour to life.

One week and we're off to the States...

Southend show
Photo © Howard Rankin

Band at Hammersmith... Spot Roger!

Support act Bryan and Livvy of Mostly Autumn Acoustic
Photo © Mini Kingman

Hammersmith with special guest Jakko Jakszyk
Photo © Lee Millward

Jakko Jakszyk and John Hackett at Hammersmith

A ghoul greets Steve on Southend Pier

Steve with Steven Wilson backstage at Hammersmith