By Kevin Rademeyer.
Big Concerts, in association with KFM 94.5 and powered by Hot 102.7 FM, is proud to announce the return of the iconic Mike + The Mechanics to South Africa for their much-anticipated ‘Looking Back – Living The Years 2025 Tour.’ Joining them as opening acts are South African music heavyweights Arno Carstens and Albert Frost, promising an unforgettable experience for fans.
A Dynamic Duo: Arno Carstens and Albert Frost
Arno Carstens, former frontman of the legendary Springbok Nude Girls, has forged a stellar solo career, earning numerous accolades and releasing multiple chart-topping albums. His long-time collaborator, Albert Frost, is a cornerstone of South Africa’s blues-rock scene, known for his 21-year tenure with the Blues Broers and collaborations with top artists.
Together, they co-wrote and recorded two standout albums, Another Universe and The Hello Goodbye Boys, showcasing their shared melodic sensibilities. Reflecting on their partnership, Carstens remarked, “We share a similar rhythmical feel for music—and a sense of humor.” Their reunion on stage is set to deliver a performance steeped in passion and camaraderie.
Nic Collins: The Beat of a New Generation
The tour also marks the much-anticipated return of Nic Collins on drums. Collins, celebrated for his performances on the Genesis ‘Last Domino?’ Tour (2021/22) and as a key part of the band’s ‘Refuelled! Tour 2023, brings youthful energy and extraordinary talent to the lineup.
Named one of MusicRadar.com’s Best Rock and Prog Drummers of 2021, Collins expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m thrilled to be heading back on the road with Mike + The Mechanics. The last tour was incredible, and I’m honored to be part of this next journey.”
Mike Rutherford shared, “Nic adds a fantastic energy to the band. It’s great to have him back—and it’s nice to keep it in the family.”
Tour Highlights
The South African leg of the tour begins at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town, on Thursday, 30 January 2025, before heading to the SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria, on Saturday, 1 February 2025. The band will then embark on an extensive 30-show UK tour.
Fans can look forward to timeless hits like ‘Over My Shoulder,’ ‘The Living Years’ and ‘All I Need Is A Miracle,’ alongside a selection of Genesis classics.
Reflecting on the upcoming tour, Rutherford said, “The joy of being back on the road with the band last year was unparalleled. The camaraderie, the audience response, and the sheer fun made it clear we had to do it again. We can’t wait to share the experience with our fans.”
A Legacy of Timeless Music
Since their inception in 1985 as a side project for Genesis’s Mike Rutherford, Mike + The Mechanics have sold over 10 million albums and become one of the most beloved bands of their era. With vocalists Andrew Roachford and Tim Howar, the band continues to deliver electrifying performances that transcend generations.
South African Tour Dates
Cape Town: Thursday, 30 January 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest
Pretoria: Saturday, 1 February 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square
For tickets and more details, visit: www.mikeandthemechanics.com.