80s rock band announces upcoming tour following the passing of founding member
n all of the band’s first ten albums, which were released from 1978 to 1991. The band’s biggest hits, like “Tempted,” “Up the Junction,” “Cool for Cats,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell),” “Black Coffee in Bed,” “Take Me I’m Yours,” and “Hourglass,” all featured Lavis on drums. “Tempted,” a standout track with Paul Carrack on lead vocals, even received a remix in 1994 for the “Reality Bites” soundtrack and appeared in various video games, TV shows such as “The Office,” and commercials for Burger King and Heineken.
Lavis parted ways with Squeeze in 1992 reportedly due to struggles with alcoholism. Following his time with the band, he continued to make music and performed with Jools Holland in the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. The band’s co-founder, Chris Difford, expressed his sorrow at Lavis’s passing in a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing the drummer’s immense contribution to Squeeze’s sound over the years. Difford described Lavis’s drumming as a vital component that held the band’s compositions together, marking him as a key figure in their musical journey. He fondly remembered Lavis’s supportive nature offstage, noting the drummer’s influence in steering him towards a healthier lifestyle.
Glenn Tilbrook, Squeeze’s other co-founder, also paid tribute to Lavis, hailing him as a hero for the band and highlighting his instrumental role in propelling the group’s success. Tilbrook reminisced about Lavis’s exceptional creativity and distinctive drumming style, noting that his impact on Squeeze was truly unmatched. He extended his thoughts and sympathies to Lavis’s family, acknowledging the loss of a musical legend.
Despite the recent loss of Lavis, Squeeze is forging ahead with plans for a new tour in 2026. The band is set to embark on a series of headline shows across the UK in November, featuring special guest Billy Bragg. Following the success of their 50th-anniversary tour in 2024, Squeeze is eager to showcase both classic hits and new material from their upcoming album, “Trixies.” The album, slated for release in March 2026, will delve into the band’s early days, featuring songs penned by Tilbrook and Difford in 1974 during their formative years.
Excitement is building among fans as Squeeze prepares to bring their iconic sound to audiences once again. With a rich history spanning over five decades, the band continues to captivate listeners with their infectious melodies and timeless hits. As they gear up for the much-anticipated tour, Squeeze remains a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the legacy of a legendary era in music history.