The Jam classics are Bruce’s preserve

IT’S been 40 years since that most iconic of British bands The Jam split up.

And, while Paul Weller has gone on to become a music icon, you’d be forgiven for regarding the band’s bassist Bruce Foxton as being rock’s forgotten Mod.

Yet, having since set aside his differences with the his former band mate and erstwhile best pal, Foxton himself is proving quite the hot ticket among those who grew up listening to classic tunes such as That’s Entertainment and Down In The Tube Station At Midnight.

Joined by former Weller tribute singer Russell Hastings – better than it sounds, believe us – the pair will play Cardiff as part of a series of must-see anniversary shows celebrating 35 years since the release of The Jam’s acclaimed LP The Gift.

Performing versions of tunes from both that and the rest of The Jam’s extensive back catalogue, the show will be a great way for fans to revel in the memory one of the greatest and biggest selling bands in British history.

Foxton’s latest album Smash The Clock, released in May 2016, might also get an airing, featuring as it does guest appearances from Weller, Wilko Johnson and Paul Jones.

The album debuted in the UK Top 40 chart and was recorded at Weller’s Black Barn studios.

Like Bruce’s previous full length Back In The Room, the album was crowdfunded through Pledge Music, with a campaign in which fans could purchase items such as handwritten lyrics, signed CDs, LPs and artwork.

The band’s website said: “Its success was made possible by you, the public, getting involved, for which we can’t thank you enough.

“There may never be a Jam reunion but it’s reassuring to see someone as talented and passionate as Bruce Foxton being able to take these wonderful old songs out on the road and communicate so successfully with this Modern World”.

From The Jam’s The Gift 35th Anniversary Tour calls at The Tramshed in Cardiff on Thursday, November 2. For tickets, call 0871 220 0260