In a world where white and a sparse aesthetic are dominant, a hit of disco styling works as the ideal antidote. The 80s disco period evokes memories of fun and glamour – jumpsuits, bomber jackets and metallic stack heels… good times.
In 2012, Level 42 celebrated the 25th anniversary of ‘Running In The Family’ which was the all-important album bringing tracks like ‘Lessons In Love’ and ‘Children Say’ to notoriety. This year, be prepared to awaken your Level 42 senses with the latest ‘Sirens’ tour, dance-oriented retro but bang up-to-date with a rightful place in the here and now.
Whether you’re listening to a ‘Sirens’ track in a Nikki Beach bar or a Mancunian nightclub, front-row of a slick Chanel runway show or just nipping to Morrisons in your Corsa, this 6-track album offers one-size-fits-all, irresistible easy listening vibes with clever atmospheric mixes by John Morales and Simon T (Ourra), taking Level 42 full circle, back to their roots.
Level 42 successfully brought disco and dance to the mainstream but many of their older songs lie dormant. Mark told me “lots of songs never got to see the light of day… we’re bringing them out!” so hardened fans will recollect and newbies will be in for a treat… old and new tracks seamlessly stitched together like a pair of Dolce & Gabbana legwarmers.
The band tours every couple of years and Mark King’s passion for the Level 42 fan-base is evident, his respect for their support is paramount and never taken for granted. “I am nuts about this (tour and album) and I know the fans are too.” He told me “We’re taking the lighting back to the way it was in 1988, boxes on stage with racks of lighting hoisted up on pneumatics.” Combine that with the appearance of a strong brass section featuring the fantastic saxophonist, Sean Freeman… this is going to be a long night of sweaty funk-retro-heaven!
October Tour Dates:
4th MARGATE – Winter Gardens
5th READING – Hexagon
6th LEICESTER – De Montford Hall
7th BIRMINGHAM – Symphony Hall
9th IPSWICH – Regent Theatre
10th CAMBRIDGE – Corn Exchange
11th OXFORD – New Theatre
13th BRISTOL – Colston Hall
14th O2 APOLLO – Manchester
15th YORK – Barbican
17th GATESHEAD – Sage
18th O2 ABC – Glasgow
20th O2 GUILDHALL – Southampton
21st BEXHILL – De La Warr Pavillions
22nd GUILDFORD – G-Live
24th SOUTHEND – Cliffs Pavillions
25th WATFORD – Colosseum
26th LONDON – Royal Albert Hall
Tickets available from www.livenation.co.uk
Website: www.level42.com