Big Audio Dynamite Play First Reunion Date in Liverpool

Big Audio Dynamite played their first gig since 1989 with their original line-up at Liverpool's O2 Academy on Tuesday, March 29. Formed in 1984 by singer/guitarist Mick Jones in the wake of his acrimonious departure from the Clash, Big Audio Dynamite offered a pioneering fusion of rock, hip-hop and dub reggae.

Speaking to BBC 6 Music, Jones explained why the reunited band had decided to kick of their tour in Liverpool saying, "After London, it's our second home. They love us here and we love them. That's why we started here because we knew we'd get a good start off."

Though admitting that he found the reunion "a bit strange," Jones maintained the band's enduring friendship over the years meant that the gigs would be special.

"The advantage is that we haven't become estranged from each other," Jones said. "We've always remained friends and we all hang out. I wasn't like a 'Who are you?' reunion."

Jones has returned to centre stage after riding shotgun in Gorillaz with erstwhile Clash bassist Paul Simonon.

"It was much easier for me when I was doing Gorillaz because it wasn't all on me -- it was all on [Gorillaz frontman] Damon Albarn but now it's a lot more on me," he mused. "I had to learn the lyrics but it came back quite well because once you sing the first line then rest all comes back. It's like riding a bike!"

Big Audio Dynamite's UK tour continues until April 9. The band will then perform at the Coachella Festival on April 16.

Watch the Video for Big Audio Dynamite's 'Medicine Show'