The The To Return To Australia In 2018

British post-punk royalty The The will return to Australia for the first time in almost 30 years for some very special shows. 

As well as performing at the Melbourne International Arts Festival, the legendary group will also make their Sydney Opera House debut this October.

Following sold out performances across Europe and the United States, Matt Johnson and his band will bring the iconic catalogue, that hasn’t been heard or witnessed live in 16 years, to Australian shores.

A radical figure during the 80’s (DOWN WITH THATCHER), Matt Johnson and The The were among the most critically-acclaimed and politically engaged bands, alongside fellow Brits The Smiths and New Order. 

Melbourne Festival Artistic Director Jonathan Holloway jumped at the opportunity saying, “it’s a no-brainer when you hear The The are planning to tour after nearly 30 years, it takes a second to say ‘yes’”.

Speaking about the tour, Johnson said “it’s just five musicians, performing reinterpretations of my back catalogue”.

“The songs are not intended to be reproduction of the album versions, and many of them don’t sound like they do on the old recordings. Some of the songs do, but if people really want to hear the albums, they should just put on headphones and listen to the albums.”

Tickets go on sale from 9am this Thursday (28 June) so be sure to set your alarms. Check out theGuide for all the details!