As The Waterboys prepare to make their long-awaited return to Australia and New Zealand this May — their first tour in over a decade — we caught up with the incomparable Mike Scott to talk about the new record, the enduring spirit of live performance, and what fans can expect when one of the world’s most electrifying bands hits our shores once again.
We explore the new album ‘Life, Death and Dennis Hopper’ and talk about Mike’s contribution to the new Johnny Thunders tribute record ‘I Only Wrote This Song For You’ — a heartfelt tribute to the legendary guitarist.
Critically acclaimed as one of the best live acts on the planet, the 2025 incarnation of the band features double keyboard firepower from Brother Paul (Memphis) and James Hallawell (Cornwall), anchored by a formidable Irish rhythm section of Aongus Ralston on bass and Eamon Ferris on drums.
Together, they bring to life material spanning The Waterboys’ storied catalogue — from the sweeping “big music” of The Whole of the Moon and the classic This Is The Sea, through the rootsy magic of Fisherman’s Blues, to the bold, cinematic sweep of their latest album.
As Mike himself puts it: “The Waterboys live for the experience of playing, of feeling our music evolve and grow with each consecutive concert… How will the music change? What will happen that’s never happened before?”
Find out for yourself when The Waterboys hit the road this May:
THE WATERBOYS – AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND TOUR 2026
Monday 11th May – Perth, Astor Theatre
Tuesday 12th May – Perth, Astor Theatre (SOLD OUT)
Thursday 14th May – Sydney, State Theatre (NEW SHOW!)
Friday 15th May – Sydney, State Theatre (SOLD OUT)
Saturday 16th May – Melbourne, Palais Theatre
Monday 18th May – Brisbane, The Tivoli
Wednesday 20th May – Wellington, Meow Nui
Thursday 21st May – Auckland, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre
Tickets on sale now.
