(PR) The Proclaimers are hard at work recording their upcoming album Notes & Rhymes set for release later this year. In preparation for the launch, the band have big plans in the US in the coming months, including an EP release that includes a uniquely 'Proclaimers' version of Kings Of Leon's "17"! The Proclaimers will kick things off with US dates in Austin, Texas, showcasing their phenomenal new material at the South By Southwest festival, where the band will play a series of highly anticipated acoustic showcases.
To follow, stops are planned for Los Angeles' intimate Hotel Cafe on March 24th and New York on March 26th, where they'll play a sold out Joe's Pub.
Identical twins Craig and Charlie Reid were born in Leith and grew up in Edinburgh where they were raised on a steady diet of early rock 'n' roll and country greats. It's no small wonder that their high school days saw them playing in punk bands and eventually forming The Proclaimers, who carved out a niche for themselves in the netherworld where pop, folk, new wave and punk collide. Singing in regional accents about Scotland - its emigration and its politics, the band became a phenomenon overnight after signing to Chrysalis in 1987. The Proclaimers were voted NME Readers Best New Band in 1988 and since then they have barely stood still. With the release of multiple gold and platinum albums in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada, The Proclaimers have proven themselves to be a rare preeminent band that can successfully redefine itself, mature and consistently stay ahead of the times.
Embracing the current industry and learning as they've gone, The Proclaimers are making a point of being at the forefront of using the internet to give fans of all ages access to the band. Their YouTube page rocks exclusive video clips, their MySpace boasts over a million and a half listens and their Facebook page is home to a growing number of their most dedicated. The band will even be twittering updates this spring and summer from the road.
The band's timeless songs have become anthems for sports teams, defining songs for movie soundtracks such as Shrek and Benny and Joon and have even inspired a musical. The enormously successful and highly acclaimed show, Sunshine On Leith, written by Stephen Greenhorn follows the highs and lows of 2 soldiers returning home from Afghanistan. The award winning show opened both of its runs to sold out crowds in Scotland.
SXSW: March 17: Interactive/Music Party At The British Music Embassy (Latitude 30) - Off 6th St
SXSW: March 20: Directtv Special Concert
SXSW: March 21: Mojo Party @ Mean Eyed Cat (Afternoon Barbeque)
SXSW: March 21: Official SXSW Show @ The Bedford At Creekside EMC, Hilton Garden Inn (Night Show)
March 24: Los Angeles At Hotel Café
March 26: New York City At Joe's Pub