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Electro-pioneers Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark have been confirmed as the first band to play the re-launched Eric’s club on Saturday 10th September.
Founded by Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphries, the band forged their own innovative electronic sound, becoming million sellers and experiencing worldwide success.
OMD reformed in 2007 and released well-received new LP History of Modern last year.
The band are interrupting their current world tour to play the Matthew St venue, where they made their debut appearance.
The band’s most recent gig in the city was a sell-out concert at the Liverpool Echo Arena last year.
For the Eric’s pre-launch gig the band will play a rare intimate two-man show, in the same format they originally played the venue in.
Support on the night will come from up and coming Liverpool electro band Kids on Bridges.
Band founder Andy McCluskey said, ‘If Eric’s had not existed, then neither would OMD! Even though you cannot recreate what Eric’s meant to our generation 30 years ago, it will be fun to play on the same stage remembering the past, while hopefully celebrating a new and different future.’
Ethan Allen Music Director of the club went on to say, ‘It’s quite fitting that OMD, who played their first gig at Eric’s over 30 years ago should come back to re-open the new Eric’s.
‘We’re over the moon to welcome such an iconic band back to the venue but we’re also looking forward to showcasing the next wave of new talent over the forthcoming months at the club.’
Eric’s, based in the iconic location of Matthew St was instrumental in the formation of legendary Liverpool acts Echo and the Bunnymen, OMD, The Teardrop Explodes, The Mighty Wah! Frankie Goes to Hollywood, The Wild Swans, Dead or Alive and creating the foundations for scores of other bands.
The club was also saw the formation of cult band Big in Japan, whose various members went on to join The Lightening Seeds, Siouxsie and the Banshees and The KLF.
At the onset of punk, Eric’s hosted early gigs from Blondie, Buzzcocks, The Clash, Elvis Costello, The Stranglers, The Sex Pistols, Joy Division and The Jam.
The club will re-open its doors in September to host a selection of pre-launch gigs.
The official launch is planned for October, which will mark the 35th anniversary of the venue originally opening.
Listings will be announced over coming weeks.