The Beta Band Reunites: A Look Back at Their Turbulent Past and Upcoming Tour

Image credits: Neil Thomson

The Beta Band, a Scottish band known for their experimental sound and visually stunning live performances, has announced their reunion and first tour in 20 years. The tour will celebrate their classic album The Three EPs, which was famously namechecked in the movie High Fidelity, as well as other hits. The band's original lineup, consisting of Steve Mason, Richard Greentree, John Maclean, and Robin Jones, will be performing together again, bringing their unique blend of psychedelic rock and electronic music to fans across the UK and North America.

The Beta Band's history has been marked by turmoil, including a debt of £1.2m to their label Parlophone, which ultimately led to their breakup in 2004. The band's lead singer, Steve Mason, has spoken openly about the struggles he faced during this time, including a monumental breakdown and a plan to take his own life. However, with the support of his bandmates and a newfound appreciation for their music, Mason has been able to overcome his struggles and is now excited to be back on stage with the Beta Band. The band's creative process has always been driven by a desire to push the boundaries of music and art, and their live performances are a testament to this.

The Beta Band's upcoming tour will feature a mix of old and new material, including songs from The Three EPs, which is being reissued on deluxe vinyl in July. The tour will kick off in Glasgow on September 25 and will make its way across the UK and North America, with stops in cities such as London, Manchester, Vancouver, and New York. Fans can expect a high-energy performance, complete with the band's signature illuminated suits and a setlist that showcases their unique sound. The tour dates are as follows:

• September 25 - Barrowland - Glasgow
• September 27 - O2 Academy - Leeds
• September 29 - O2 Academy - Bristol
• September 30 - Rock City - Nottingham
• October 2 - Roundhouse - London
• October 4 - Albert Hall - Manchester
• October 12 - Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, CA
• October 14 - The Showbox - Seattle
• October 15 - Crystal Ballroom - Portland
• October 17 - Regency Ballroom - San Francisco
• October 18 - The Fonda Theatre - Los Angeles
• October 20 - Metro Music Hall - Salt Lake City
• October 21 - Ogden Theatre - Denver
• October 23 - Metro - Chicago
• October 24 - St. Andrew’s Hall - Detroit
• October 25 - Danforth Music Hall - Toronto
• October 28 - 9.30 Club - Washington
• October 29 - Royale Boston - Boston
• October 30 - Union Transfer - Philadelphia
• November 1 - Brooklyn Steel - New York

Tickets for the tour are now available, and fans can sign up for the Beta Band's mailing list to access pre-sale tickets. The band is excited to be back on the road and is looking forward to performing for their fans once again. With their unique sound and high-energy live performances, the Beta Band is sure to be a must-see act in the coming months.

The Beta Band's reunion is a testament to the enduring power of their music and the dedication of their fans. Despite the challenges they faced in the past, the band is now more focused than ever on creating and performing music that is true to their vision. With their upcoming tour and reissue of The Three EPs, the Beta Band is poised to introduce their music to a new generation of fans and remind their loyal followers why they are one of the most innovative and exciting bands to emerge from the UK in the past few decades.