FOLLOWING on from last year’s hugely successful Back By Demand tour, the legendary Chas & Dave are back on the road in the wake of their first new studio album in 27 years.

The critically-acclaimed That’s What Happens (Warner Bros) was recorded in Studio 2, Abbey Road with Grammy-winning bluesman Joe Henry on production duties.

Released at the tail-end of last year, it saw Chas & Dave not only return to the UK album charts but also return to their roots with a collection of early R&B, skiffle and Rock ‘n’ Roll classics alongside new takes on songs of their own.

The album also featured a crack team of musicians and special guests, including guitarists Albert Lee and Martin Taylor, Buddy Holly & The Crickets’ drummer J. I Allison, and Jools Holland and Hugh Laurie on keys.

The On The Road tour features songs from the album as well as all the Chas & Dave classics.

Chas & Dave first arrived on the music scene in the 70s. With hits such as Gertcha, Rabbit, The Sideboard Song, Margate and Ain’t No Pleasing You they created a sound that was uniquely British and rockin’ to boot. And it’s those songs that have ensured that the boys have continued to tour for over five decades to audiences across the world, enchanted by their down-to-earth charm and great songwriting.

Chas Hodges (piano, vocals, banjo, and guitars) and Dave Peacock (bass guitar, vocals, banjo, and guitars) first met in 1963 but only began recording together in 1972. Both largely came from session backgrounds, with Chas working with the likes of Joe Meek, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ritchie Blackmore, and Albert Lee in bands such as The Outlaws, Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, and Heads Hands and Feet. And Dave being equally active with The Tumbleweeds, Mick Greenwood, Jerry Donahue among others.

Their debut album One Fing ‘n’ Anuvver was released in 1975, earning critical acclaim from the likes of Radio One legend John Peel. Their proudly cockney vocals, blended with Rock ‘n’ Roll, led them to title their 1978 EMI album Rockney.

In 2012, their contribution to popular culture was recognised by BBC Four with an hour-long documentary detailing their career and influence.

Don’t miss them at Cheltenham Town Hall on November 27 at 7.30pm. For details visit cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk