Occasionally we hear of some great stories and experiences from artists on tour. We thought this one from King Charles was particularly special:
With nine people in a nine seat van, we embarked on our full UK tour on the 24th February. Starting in Huddersfield with two new additions to the group, Kandice and Tahnee, we have been striving to recreate the full energy of King Charles’ debut album live on stage. Both ladies have brought new depth to the King Charles live sound through the introduction of backing vocals and violin textures. Another new addition is Max, King Charles’ very own guitar tech and multi instrumentalist who joins the band on stage for a few numbers to make up a seven piece outfit.
If one thing was observed on this tour, it is the passion of the fans. Night after night we have been greeted by music fans who have traveled long distances to be with us. Others came to multiple dates along the tour trail, creating a migrating family mentality. It has truly been a pleasure to hear stories from such a wide range of people, each having their own reasons for being there, whether it be the lyrics, the guitar playing or just simple hair and moustache love.
Of all the memories made on this tour, one of the stand-outs was generated from an experience we had in Oxford. While on the road, some fans were unable to attend the gig due to the lack of wheelchair access at the Oxford O2 Academy, so we headed to their house for the afternoon to play an impromptu acoustic set. It was an exercise in creativity by stripping down the set from it’s full electric dynamic to a more delicate acoustic form. Through the process we discovered many different facets to the songs. In particular, “Polar Bears” proved to be a winner when performed in this fashion. Our hosts were incredibly kind to us and even prepared a delicious lunch. They will be friends of the King Charles crew for many moons to come.
At the half way point of this tour, we stand ready to embrace even more stage invasions, stories of music discovery, Charles’ mid-set acrobatics and Max’s experimental guitar tuning. We can’t say it hasn’t lent a sense of excitement to every guitar change.
No one has been seriously hurt during the facilitation of this first leg.
Video:
King Charles Beating Hearts Road Movie
King Charles “Polar Bears” Oxford Impromptu Gig (clip)