Then Jerico/Big Country

2 iconic British bands come head 2 head at the stunning Winter Gardens - Morecambe... with 20 top 40 singles between them and 6 top 10 albums - Mark Shaw's Then Jerico and founding Big Country member Bruce Watson & co are set to rock the bank hoiliday weekend away this August..! 

THEN JERICO first found fame in 1987 with the release of their debut album ‘First (The Sound Of Music)‘. The record featured hit singles ‘Muscle Deep‘ and ‘The Motive‘ which remained in the UK Top 40 chart for three months, becoming the most-played record on BBC Radio 1 in 1987. The track brought Then Jerico worldwide recognition and saw them selling-out headline shows along with support tours with Iggy Pop and Propaganda, amongst others.

Their follow-up album, ‘The Big Area‘, cemented their status as one of the greatest bands of the 1980s. Selling over 100,000 copies within the first 40 minutes of its release, ‘The Big Area‘ immediately attaining Gold status and consequently reached Platinum sales.

BIG COUNTRY  are one of Scotland’s most iconic rock bands, known for their unique fusion of post-punk, new wave, and Scottish folk influences. From their breakthrough in the 1980s to the present day, Big Country continues to captivate audiences with their anthemic sound and repertoire of memorable hits. Through 2025 Big Country are set to embark on a world tour stopping in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Formed in 1981 in Dunfermline, Scotland, Big Country’s distinctive blend of rock and Celtic influences quickly set them apart from their contemporaries. Their 1983 debut album, The Crossing, introduced hit singles like "In a Big Country" and "Fields of Fire," which became well known around the world. These tracks established Big Country as one of the most original and exciting bands of the era.

The band followed up with Steeltown (1984) and The Seer (1986), further solidifying their place in music history. With Stuart Adamson’s powerful vocals and signature guitar work, Big Country continued to build a loyal fanbase, delivering songs that combined personal emotion with universal appeal. Known for their iconic Scottish folk instrument inspired guitar sound, Big Country are instantly recognisable throughout the world by legions of fans.

After the passing of Stuart Adamson in 2001, Big Country made the decision to carry on his musical legacy both touring and releasing new music after their reformation in 2007. While the loss of their frontman was significant, the band remained committed to honoring his vision and continuing the Big Country journey, keeping their music alive for a new generation of fans.

Big Country's current lineup reflects a dynamic mix of long-time members and new talent. The band consists of Tommy Paxton (lead vocals, lead guitar), Bruce Watson (guitar, backing vocals), Chris Stone (bass), Reece Dobbin (drums), and Jamie Watson (guitar, backing vocals). Together, they continue to evolve Big Country’s sound while staying true to the essence of the band's legacy.

With their revitalised lineup and creative drive, Big Country are poised to continue their musical journey. Their legacy is built on resilience, passion, and a commitment to creating music that resonates deeply with fans young and old alike. The band have toured through 2024 to celebrate ‘40 years of Steeltown’, and are set to continue their journey through 2025 and beyond with their upcoming world tour.