STIFF LITTLE FINGERS - event info

Formed in Northern Ireland in 1977, at the height of the troubles by Jake Burns, Henry Cluney, Brian Faloon and Ali McMordie gained recognition from Radio 1 legend John Peel with their first single self-released on their own Rigid Digits label before being picked up by Rough trade for a full release ‘Alternative Ulster’ and in 1979 the album ‘Inflammable Material which sold over 100,000 copies and hit number 17 in the UK charts.

3 more albums in the next three years, and a heavy touring schedule, increased the bands notoriety just as it increased the pressures upon the members and problems within the band, causing them to first lose original drummer Brian Faloon and then just two years later his replacement Jim Reilly, before finally Jake Burns announced a split in 1983.

Thankfully this split only lasted 5 years before the band decided to try a few reunion gigs around Christmas 1987, partly they said as an excuse to head home to Belfast and visit their parents for the holiday. Fan response was incredible and Stiff Little Fingers found themselves playing sell out shows in far bigger venues that they ever had during their original touring. The original fans had stayed rigidly loyal and were now joined by a new generation of new supporters. Since then the band haven’t stopped and have established themselves as a firm live favourite wherever they go.

Current line-up features ever present frontman Jake Burns and original bass player Ali McCordie who finally returned to the band in 2006 after a fifteen year absence. Also playing will be long-term guitarist Ian McCallum and drummer Steve Grantley. Tickets are £16advance and are on sale now.

Stiff Little Fingers will be playing 53 Degrees, Preston on Tuesday 12th October 2010