Lucassen’s nerves over live return

Arjen Lucassen admits he’s dealing with nerves ahead of his acoustic tour with The Gentle Storm collaborator Anneke van Giersbergen.

She persuaded him to return to the stage for a run of European shows that kicks off in Hungary tonight. He’ll also play at The Gentle Storm’s debut album launch event next month in the Netherlands – although he won’t take part in the rest of the tour.

Lucassen says: “It’s really happening. Anneke and I are leaving for the acoustic tour. Exciting! Quite nervous as well, though. It’s been a long time since this recluse played live.”

He adds: “So sorry if we don’t play near you, but I’m looking forward to seeing all of you who can come.”

The Gentle Storm’s album The Diary is launched on March 23 via InsideOut.

UK tour dates

Apr 23: London Garage

Apr 24: Leicester Musician

Apr 25: Manchester Roadhouse

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.