The Men They Couldn’t Hang + Skimmington Ride

THE MEN THEY COULDN’T HANG + Skimmington Ride

7:30pm Friday 17^th May, Bedford Esquires

 Pleased to announce English-Folk-Punk Group THE MEN THEY COULDN’T HANG will be making their debut at Bedford Esquires as part of their 40^th Anniversary Tour  – The bands unique combination of barnstorming live performance, rich storytelling ability, often rooted in historical and social themes, and mix of Celtic, Folk and Country flavours saw them rise rapidly to national and international prominence where they have remained through dint of sheer tenacity and a passionate fan base.

Founded in 1984, TMTCH evolved from the Shepherd’s Bush squatting and busking scene to make their debut supporting Poguemahone at the Electric Ballroom in Camden in the Easter of that year.

Swiftly their uproarious and engaging style, coupled with keenly contemporary songs, gained a passionate national following, leading to a 40 year career filled with much loved music, a dedicated fan community and high octane performances.

Touring continually throughout their career, TMTCH have crossed the globe by way of Europe, Canada, USA, Iceland, Egypt and Estonia. They have appeared at festivals such as Glastonbury, Roskilde, Reading, Pink Pop and Cambridge Folk and have appeared with a roll call of International artists such as David Bowie, Van Morrison, Bo Diddley, The Smiths, Elvis Costello and the Oyster Band to name a few.

Their recordings have been acclaimed in print, on radio and online; from their definitive version of the anti war classic Green Fields of France to the anti fascist anthem Ghosts of Cable Street and the epic historical ballads, Ironmasters and The Colours. Recent albums The Defiant (2014) and Cockahoop (2018) have seen TMTCH rise again into prominence; their vitality undimmed.

Devastated by the passing of friend and founder member Stefan Cush during the Covid lockdown, TMTCH are responding in the only way they know how; writing, recording and playing live to their ever loyal and growing community of fans. An anniversary tour is planned for 2024 when they will celebrate their 40th year of raising hell with special events and a ‘Best of’ release, then in 2025 they will be releasing a brand new album.

Tickets priced £20 are on sale in person from Esquires Bar & Slide Record Shop (booking fee free) and available online from Seetickets from 10am on Thursday 30^th November.