Simply Red will celebrate the release of their new studio album ‘Time’ with a one-off launch show at London’s O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire.

The 13th album from the group – featuring the singles Better With You and Shades 22 – is due May 26, after which the band will play their most intimate London show since playing the same venue back in 2005 on June 5.

“We’re very happy to be performing our album launch show at Shepherd’s Bush Empire” says frontman Mick Hucknall. 

“It’s been 18 years since we’ve played at this iconic venue, and we look forward to performing classics as well as new album material in a very special and intimate environment”.

It marks their only UK performance this year. 

Tickets go on pre-sale from May 2 at 10am BST. For first access, pre-order ‘Time’ via the band’s official website.

Due May 26, ‘Time’ – Simply Red’s 13th album – was recorded in London with longstanding producer Andy Wright and sees frontman Mick Hucknall at his best, alongside his close-knit group of touring musicians. 

“When we were in lockdown, I went, well, jeez, who am I actually?” he remembers. “What makes me tick? And I realised: you are a songwriter.

The project sees the band back with Warner Music – the label that helped launch their career in 1985 – with Mick adding the LP reflects the musician as he is now – a happily married father and an ever-inspired singer and songwriter.

“Music is one of those wonderful communicators. Each and every person can have an interpretation of a song that can mean something to them,” he explains. “To be able to create something that is then shared with millions of people all over the world – what a joy. How can anything be more rewarding and fulfilling than that?”

‘Time’ is out May 26 on Warner and available to pre-order now.