U.K. post-punk stalwarts Gang of Four will kick start their 25-city tour to promote their new album,
“What Happens Next” on September 28 at The Loving Touch in Ferndale. The band just released a video for the song, “The Dying Rays” which features German star Herbert Gronmeyer, who starred in the critically acclaimed film “Das Boot.”
The highly influential band made its debut in 1977 playing a mix of punk and funk with heavy social and political themes. They are widely considered one of the leading bands of the late 1970s/early 1980s post-punk movement. Their debut album, “Entertainment” ranked at Number 483 in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, and is listed by Pitchfork Media as the 8th best album of the 1970s. David Fricke of Rolling Stone described Gang of Four as "probably the best politically motivated band in rock & roll."
The mid-80s found the band digressing from their early sound into electronic territory, but the darker themes remained. The new album, “What Happens Next” continues to explore this electronic fare, but still retains the signature edgy guitar sound. The album also features guest vocalist Alison Mosshart of The Kills and The Dead Weather singing on two songs.
The current line-up of the band consists of sole original member guitarist Andy Gill. Gill's influence can be heard in music by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and Rage Against The Machine's Tom Morello told Rolling Stone that, “there's no one more influential on my guitar playing than Andy Gill.”
Gill is joined by musicians John Sterry (vocals), Thomas McNiece (bass) and Jonny Finnegan (drums).
The show is on September 28, 8 pm at The Loving Touch located at 22634 Woodward Ave. in Ferndale.
Tickets and event information is available at www.thelovingtouchferndale.com
For more information on the band check out www.gangoffourofficial.co.uk