As the upcoming ‘Indie Til I Die’ tour kicks off on Friday this week [4th October] promises to celebrate the rousing energy and youthful spirit of the early 2000s indie scene, headliners The Enemy and special guests The Subways have announced details of a special initiative to celebrate the occasion.
October 10th will see the two bands release covers of each other’s songs via Alcopop! Records, with The Enemy tackling The Subways’ classic single “Rock & Roll Queen”, while The Subways have put their twist on “We’ll Live And Die In These Towns”, the title track from The Enemy’s #1 debut album.
In addition, the two bands have collaborated to produce a special half-and-half scarf, and for every scarf sold, another will be donated to Shelter to distribute to those who need them this winter.
October 10th is both World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day, so all profits from the project will be donated to Shelter and Mind.
The Subways’ Billy Lunn says, “Growing up with mental health issues and moving from one council house to the next, it nonetheless took me many years to realise just how entwined and circular the two are. The uncertainty I experienced in my living situation took its toll on my already troubled mind during its most formative years – and, had my family not been provided with the secure housing that we needed, I dread to think what might have become of my mental health situation.
“For those in much more precarious and dangerous circumstances, the struggles continue. It is for them that we must work towards positive change. I’m therefore thankful that World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day occur together, thereby emphasising the intersectionality of many social struggles, and the collaborative effort required to resolve them.
“With this in mind, it is with great pleasure that we come together with our good friends, The Enemy, to highlight the need for intersectional thinking and action with regard to resolving the multitudinous social issues we face. Because I believe rock ‘n’ roll can change the world for the better.”
Tom Clarke of The Enemy adds: “Very pleased to announce that as part of the upcoming ‘Indie Till I Die’ tour with The Subways, we have recorded a cover of ‘Rock & Roll Queen’, and The Subways have recorded a version of ‘We’ll Live And Die In These Towns’.
“Both tracks will be released in conjunction with World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day, two issues which in my experience are inextricably linked, and obviously close to all of our hearts. The proceeds will go directly to Shelter, and Mind. It’s fantastic to be in a position to make a difference, however small. Thanks to everyone who buys a copy. We’re looking forward to seeing you at the shows”. Fans can also support both charities on the night of each show by donating money directly to collection points at each venue.
In addition, The Enemy will play two warm-up shows at Leeds O2 Academy (October 3rd) and Bournemouth O2 Academy (October 16th). Meanwhile The Subways will play select headline shows around the ‘Indie Til I Die’ tour.
Still consisting of their original and only line-up: Tom Clarke (vocals/guitar), Andy Hopkins (bass) and Liam Watts (drums), The Enemy’s 2007 debut album “We’ll Live And Die In These Towns” made a phenomenal impact, featuring the Top 10 hits and live staples “Had Enough” and “Away From Here”, the album debuted at # 1 and was certified Platinum.
They released two hit records: 2009’s “Music For The People” (# 2) and 2012’s “Streets In The Sky” (# 9), plus their final album, 2015’s “It’s Automatic”, and played shows with the likes of Oasis, The Killers and The Rolling Stones.
The Subways were also prospering throughout that era, through their acclaimed early albums “Young For Eternity” and “All Or Nothing”. Their breakthrough hit and biggest moment, “Rock & Roll Queen” still spins on indie radio. They won plaudits for last year’s “Uncertain Joys” album (2023).
- The tour will also feature The Holloways.
