Indie rock giants Kasabian are set to make a triumphant return to Victoria Park in Leicester, promising what they describe as the “most unbelievable show” the city has ever seen. The highly anticipated event, dubbed Summer Solstice II, is scheduled for July 6, 2024, and will mark a decade since their last major performance at the same venue.
The announcement comes with the exciting news that the show will coincide with the release of their new album, “Happenings.” Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as the band takes the stage in their hometown, a place they hold dear. “We are truly honored to be playing Victoria Park in our beloved hometown, with all our people for Summer Solstice II,” the band expressed. “We cannot wait to get out there and play the biggest party of the summer with you all. See you in the mosh pit.”
Kasabian’s return to Victoria Park is a significant event for both the band and their fans. The last time they played a full concert at the park was in 2014, during their first Summer Solstice show. They also made a surprise appearance at the park in 2016 to celebrate Leicester City’s Premier League title win, a moment that remains etched in the memories of many.
The band, now consisting of Serge Pizzorno, bassist Chris Edwards, drummer Ian Matthews, and guitarist Tim Carter, has undergone some changes since their last major performance in Leicester. Former frontman Tom Meighan was asked to leave the band in 2020 following charges of assault. Despite this, Kasabian has continued to thrive, releasing their number one album “The Alchemist’s Euphoria” in 2022 and now gearing up for the release of “Happenings.”
Victoria Park, a venue that has hosted numerous memorable events, including Leicester City’s title celebrations, is expected to draw an estimated 35,000 people for Kasabian’s homecoming show. The city council has already announced road closures and restrictions to ensure the smooth running of the event, highlighting the scale and significance of the concert.
Supporting Kasabian at Summer Solstice II will be the Kaiser Chiefs, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the event. Gates are set to open at 15:30, and fans are advised to arrive before 20:00 to avoid long queues.
Serge Pizzorno, the band’s vocalist, expressed his readiness and enthusiasm for the big night in an interview with BBC Radio Leicester. “I’m absolutely ready to get out there and just put on the most unbelievable show the city’s ever seen,” he said. Pizzorno emphasized the band’s deep connection to Leicester, stating, “You know how we feel about this place. It’s exactly why we want to create these massive nights for this city.”
The band’s decision to stay in Leicester rather than move to a bigger city is a testament to their loyalty and love for their hometown. “We didn’t go down the M1 – we stayed here and it is just about memories,” Pizzorno explained. “It’s just one of those things that, if you’re there, these things are imprinted and they never leave you.”
For fans, the upcoming concert is not just about the music but also about creating lasting memories. “If you’re going through something in a few years and you need a little pick me up, you can just take yourself back into that night that we all spent together,” Pizzorno said. “That’s why we do these nights.”
As the date approaches, excitement continues to build. Kasabian’s return to Victoria Park is set to be a landmark event, celebrating not only their new album but also their enduring connection to Leicester and their fans. With the promise of an unforgettable show, Summer Solstice II is poised to be one of the highlights of the summer.
Source: BBC News, East Midlands, PA Media
