As lead singer of Kasabian, who helped sell more than four million albums, Tom Meighan's unmistakable voice is a central, many would say essential, component on timeless tracks like 'Fire', 'Club Foot' and 'Shoot the Runner' , to name a few. only three.
Following five number one albums with his former band, Tom headlined shows at festivals across Europe, including Glastonbury, Leeds and Reading, and won the NME, Q and Mojo Awards, plus a Brit Award. Tom Meighan had it all. True British rock royalty.
But a highly publicized fall from grace saw Tom expelled from Kasabian and, in his own words, “A couple of years that were the lowest of my life. “I wasn’t sure I was going to get on stage again.” However, marriage, therapy, and all that while in the wilderness have done wonders for wild Tom. His first solo album, 2023's 'The Reckoning', featuring new collaborators, was part of his healing process and heralded the emergence of a more reflective man. Here was a fallen rock star, older and wiser, baring his scars and pain for all to see through new songs and part of a new musical clan.
And, while cancel culture was still looming large (which meant radio play was almost non-existent for 'The Reckoning'), even The Sun took the time to say: “The title track's crooning vocals reveal a man who has made a lot of soul”. searching, and the result is a slow-burning epic, boiling with emotion.” Classic Pop magazine agreed, adding: “Determined to start over, 'The Reckoning' is the best answer the newly focused Meighan could give about where his future belongs.”
Then the tide began to turn for Tom Meighan in 2023, with no clearer example than his advocacy by Noel Gallagher, who had Tom support him on a UK stadium tour in December. And Noel was vindicated, too: Meighan had those stadiums near capacity EVERY night.
Another solo album and headlining tour will arrive in autumn 2024, but in the meantime, following his much-lauded RAW '24 acoustic tour, Tom and his new five-piece band are playing a host of summer shows, including the Isle of Wight Festival on Saturday June 22 and Audley End with Richard Ashcroft on August 3.
Facing large crowds at festivals and arenas is where Tom Meighan feels at home. He is a captivating leader, empowered by every square meter of the stage when he performs. Almost as if he himself was connected to the sound system, not just his microphone. He starts from electricity. A real live cable.
And their latest live show is unapologetic rock from start to finish. Yes, he's toned down by more mature material, proving that Tom can be as tender as he is tumultuous, but he now breathes new life into even those Kasabian classics that liberally pepper his set. And his new hits smartly retain those terrace-style choruses, those danceable guitar riffs and also a stadium-worthy rhythm.
Risen from the ashes of his former life, Tom Meighan is still worth seeing and hearing in person. Look at him.
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