Saint Etienne's Final Lap: A Pop Odyssey Across the Tasman
The legendary British indie electronic-pop quartet, Saint Etienne, is embarking on a final tour of Australia and New Zealand, marking a bittersweet farewell to their devoted fans Down Under. This tour, a follow-up to their critically acclaimed final studio album, 'International', is a testament to their enduring legacy and a chance for fans to bid adieu to one of the most influential acts in the genre.
A Pop Odyssey
Saint Etienne's journey to the Antipodes is a celebration of their rich musical history, spanning over three decades. With a unique blend of creamy pop, electronic elements, and swinging '60s flair, they have captivated audiences worldwide. Their collaboration with Brisbane's electronic-pop sensation, Confidence Man, on the track 'Brand New Me', adds a local touch to their international appeal.
The band's success is evident in their chart positions. 'International' peaked at No. 8 on the Official U.K. Albums Chart, a testament to their enduring popularity. They have also achieved 11 top 40 entries and 17 top 40 singles, including a notable top 10 collaboration with Paul Van Dyk on 'Tell Me Why (The Riddle)'.
A Friendship Turned Band
The story of Saint Etienne is deeply intertwined with the friendship of Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs, who have known each other since childhood. Their musical journey began in 1990 with a cover of Neil Young's 'Only Love Can Break Your Heart', and their first recording, completed in a bedroom studio, even earned them a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1992.
The addition of Sarah Cracknell to the lineup in 1991, with the release of their third single 'Nothing Can Stop Us' and the album 'Foxbase Alpha', solidified their sound and success. The band's statement, 'We aren’t splitting up as such, but we don’t feel like we want to go on forever and wanted to go out with a bang', reflects their commitment to a meaningful conclusion.
A Summer of Farewells
Before their Australasian tour, Saint Etienne will grace the stages of the United Kingdom and Europe during the summer festival season, offering fans a chance to celebrate their music one last time. The tour's itinerary includes headline concerts and festival appearances, providing a comprehensive farewell experience.
The Final Lap
The tour's Australasian leg will commence in Auckland's Powerstation on November 20, followed by a show in Wellington the next day. The band will then traverse Australia, playing in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, before concluding their final lap in Perth on December 1. Fans can expect an emotional and memorable experience, as Saint Etienne bids farewell to a generation of music lovers.
As Saint Etienne prepares to say goodbye, their final tour is a testament to their enduring appeal and a celebration of their impact on the music industry. It's a chance for fans to relive the magic and appreciate the class and creaminess of their pop odyssey.
