Saint Etienne, the beloved London trio known for their dreamy blend of indie pop, electronica, and nostalgia, have announced their final UK and Ireland tour, aptly titled The Long Goodbye. Following the release of their last studio album International in September 2025, the band will take to the stage one last time in September 2026, marking the end of a remarkable 35-year journey.
Formed in 1990 by Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs, with Sarah Cracknell joining soon after as lead vocalist, Saint Etienne quickly carved out a unique space in British music. Their debut single, a cover of Neil Young’s Only Love Can Break Your Heart, set the tone for a career steeped in wistful melodies and cultural commentary. Over the decades, they’ve released 13 studio albums, collaborated with icons like Kylie Minogue and The Chemical Brothers, and played alongside legends from James Brown to Pulp.
Their music often evokes a cinematic sense of place—suburban London, seaside towns, and the emotional landscapes of youth. Saint Etienne’s work is pop with memory, mood, and meaning.
Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, here are essential tracks that capture the band’s essence:
"Only Love Can Break Your Heart" – Their breakthrough single, a shimmering reimagining of Neil Young’s classic.
"He’s on the Phone" – A euphoric dance-pop anthem that became a club staple.
"Like a Motorway" – A haunting blend of techno and folk storytelling.
"Tonight" – A later-era gem that channels the thrill of a night out.
"Penlop" (from International) – A standout from their final album, featuring ethereal vocals and pulsing synths.
"Unfinished Business" – A collaboration with Janet Planet of Confidence Man, showcasing their enduring knack for reinvention.
Saint Etienne’s farewell tour will span nine cities across the UK and Ireland, offering fans a last chance to experience their live magic. The tour kicks off on September 15th, 2026, in Manchester at New Century Hall. From there, the band will perform in Bristol at the Beacon on the 16th, followed by a London homecoming show at the Roundhouse on the 18th.
The journey continues with a performance in Sheffield at Electric on the 19th, then Glasgow’s SWG3 on the 20th. Dublin’s Olympia Theatre will host the band on the 22nd, before they head to Gateshead’s Glasshouse on the 24th. Brighton’s Dome welcomes them on the 25th, and the tour concludes in Cambridge at the Corn Exchange on September 26th.
Each venue promises an intimate celebration of Saint Etienne’s legacy, with the London and Brighton shows expected to be particularly emotional highlights.
International distills their legacy into one last pop masterclass, and The Long Goodbye promises to be a heartfelt send-off. As Sarah Cracknell put it, “It’s a good point to stop—let’s not mess it up now.”
Whether you’re dancing in the stalls or reminiscing from afar, this is your chance to say goodbye to one of Britain’s most quietly influential bands.