Richard Ashcroft Announces Debut Live Shows for New Band

Richard Ashcroft is to take United Nations of Sound on the road this summer in support of the ex-Verve frontman's new project releasing its debut album -- which initially had the working title 'Redemption' -- on June 7 on Parlophone.

The group is to play two dates in the UK at Manchester Academy on June 15 and London's Shepherd's Bush Empire on June 16, with the dates coming at the end of a European tour beginning on June 5 in Ancona, Italy.

They've also been added to the festival bills of Japan's Summer Sonic Festival (Aug. 7 and 8) and Splendour in the Grass festival in Australia (Aug. 24 and 25.)

The United Nations of Sound promises a fresh change of direction for Ashcroft, the band's album having been recorded with Chicago hip-hop producer No I.D in his home city as well as in London and New York; a single, 'Are You Ready,' has already been aired in January on the Zane Lowe Show on BBC Radio 1.

It is the first project the Wigan-born songwriter has been involved with since the Verve's third split in 2009 following performances at Glastonbury and T in the Park, as well as 2008 LP 'Forth.' The Verve's other members have since found varying success, most notably Simon Tonge, who is currently playing with indie group Erland and the Carnival.

Tickets for United Nations of Sound's UK and European Tour go on sale on Friday April 16. For full dates visit the singer's site.