by Rob Jones

Death Or Glory Promotions Presents-

THE PROFESSIONALS
Formed by Paul Cook and Steve Jones, The Professionals arrived on the scene in 1979 following the demise of the Sex Pistols, but split just 3 years later.

In celebration of the release of a three-disc set by the Universal Music Group, The Professionals reformed in October 2015 (minus Steve Jones and with the addition of Tom Spencer) for a critically acclaimed, sold out 100 Club show.In 2017 and the new band spearheaded by Paul Cook, Paul Myers and Tom Spencer released the first material under the Professionals name in 35 years with the full blessing of founding member Steve Jones.

What in the world was released to critical acclaim.

‘Never mind Steve Jones, this is the bollocks’ Classic Rock Magazine. ‘Album of the year -simple as that’ Vive le Rock Magazine ‘A total joy’ Mojo Magazine.

The album featured a handful of special guests, all lending their distinctive sounds including Marco Pirroni (Adam and The Ants), Billy Duffy (The Cult), Mick Jones (The Clash), Duff McKegan (GnRs), Phil Colin (Def Leopard) and of course, Steve Jones. 2018 saw few UK live appearances of the band.

Although The Rebellion and Isle of Wight festival crowds were treated to the new live line up with Chris McCormack (3 Colours Red) joining the ranks on guitar.

Also during this year, original bass player Paul Meyers had to step aside for health reasons.

Toshi JC jumped up from tech to bass player to amply fill his shoes.

They went down a storm supporting Billy Idol on his English dates.

However it was trips abroad to Germany, Sweden, Spain, Hong Kong and Japan that saw the band develop into the formidable live force that’s out there now.

In 2022 The Professionals released the much heralded new studio album ‘SNAFU’. Reviewed in Viva Le Rock as ‘quite simply album of the year’ what more can be said? A whole host of live club shows and festival appearances were played to support the release across the UK.
In the autumn of 2023 The Professionals re-grouped with Paul Cook and Tom Spencer now being joined by Dean Crony and Marc Haywood to rehearse and record two new tracks at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London. A very enjoyable and successful 20 night UK tour followed in November and December 2023 along with a trip to France to headline the 30 year celebrations at the famous Atelier des Môles club.

Fast-forwarding to 2024 The Professionals have just announced 4 exclusive club shows to support the release of a new collectors Double Vinyl and Double CD Edition of their now legendary sold out ‘SNAFU’ and ‘What In The World’ releases.

THE PROFESSIONALS
April 2024
Thursday 11th April – Birmingham, Castle & Falcon
Friday 12th April – Leeds, Brudenell Social Club
Saturday 13th April – Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach
Saturday 14th April – London, The 100 Club
Tickets On sale 10am Friday 16th February 2024
https://theprofessionalsband.com/shows
+
Support tbc

As someone who has seen The Professionals at Clwb Ifor Bach – a return outing is a very attractive proposition. So, don’t be an amateur, go sample The Professionals!