MUSIC: The Wedding Present celebrate 30 years of the album ‘Tommy’

THE Wedding Present are touring to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the release of their first singles collection, ‘Tommy’.

Fans can expect to hear tracks from the compilation, as well as favourites from across the band’s career.

Emerging in the wake of the Smiths' demise as the UK’s most successful indie pop band during the late '80s, the Wedding Present were founded in Leeds in 1985.

Formed from the ashes of the short-lived Lost Pandas, the Weddoes (as they were affectionately dubbed by fans) were essentially the vehicle of singer/songwriter David Gedge, the only constant member throughout the group's tumultuous history.

Initially rounded out by guitarist Peter Solowka, bassist Keith Gregory, and drummer Shaun Charman, the fledgling band quickly won a loyal following among university students, as well as the patronage of influential DJ John Peel, for whom they cut their first radio session in February 1986.

Named in honour of the popular soccer star George Best, the Wedding Present's remarkable debut LP appeared on their own Reception label in 1987.

The band’s music evolved from fast-paced indie rock in the vein of their most obvious influences The Fall, Buzzcocks and Gang of Four.

The group became the darlings of the British press overnight, winning acclaim for their distinct guitar pop frenzy as well as Gedge's idiosyncratic vocal style and wittily lovelorn, conversational lyrics.

‘Tommy’ – a compilation of early singles, covers, and radio broadcasts followed in 1988.

The Wedding Present are Live at Whelan’s on Friday, July 27.