The Jam, featuring original members Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler, have announced they will reform for a 20 date UK tour in May to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut album 'In The City'. Only one small thing is missing... their lead singer and guitarist Paul Weller.
Leaving options open, drummer Buckler says "Paul Weller has a fantastic solo career and is one of the UK's most talented songwriters. Paul is always welcome to join us for the reunion, but until then, we've got a tour and a new album to do!"Bass player Foxton has indicated that the drum and bass act will release new material in 2007. "This tour is deliberately intimate and something of a warm-up to our own material which we'll launch later," he says. "The plan is for us to get close to the fans, have some fun and then follow up with a larger tour in the autumn."
The Jam officially disbanded at their final concert in Brighton, UK in December 1982.
In their day, they sold over 14 million albums and had 4 No. 1 UK singles.
Their hits included 'A Town Called Malice', 'Going Underground', 'Beat Surrender' and 'The Bitterest Pill'.
"I have stayed close to The Jam fans over the years," says Buckler. "The songs mean so much to so many people. Fans have been demanding that we play live for years."
For the shows, Weller has been replaced with two members. Russell hastings will handle vocals and guitar. Dave Moore will play keyboards and guitar.
The setlist promises to be a greatest hits set.
A new studio album from Foxton and Buckler will be released through Universal in the third quarter of 2007.
The tour will start May 2nd in Oxford.
