British country music duo The Shires have released their highly anticipated sixth studio album, “Bonfire”, marking their first full-length record in four years. Available now via Blue Highway Records, the album is released on vinyl, CD, including signed editions, and digital platforms. Described by the duo as a celebration of togetherness, positivity and escapism, “Bonfire” signals a fresh creative chapter for Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes following an extensive period of touring across the UK. To coincide with the album’s release, The Shires have also unveiled the official music video for “Bonfire Song”, combining intimate family moments with energetic live performance footage. Ben Earle says “Bonfire” feels like starting again Reflecting on the new record, Ben Earle said the album represents a fresh beginning for the award-winning duo. He said: “Bonfire really feels like starting all over again for us. There’s a freshness to the sound, inspired hugely by touring around the UK in 2024 and 2025. “In between shows we’d get into the studio and record. It’s been such a fun process, and we’ve felt so much freedom making it. You can definitely feel that in the album and we’re so excited it’s finally out in the world.” The album captures the energy the pair rediscovered while performing live, blending uplifting melodies with the heartfelt songwriting that has become synonymous with The Shires. “Getaway Car” makes UK country music history Ahead of the album’s release, lead single “Getaway Car” achieved a landmark moment for British country music by becoming the first song by UK artists to reach No. 1 on the Official UK Country Radio Airplay Chart. The achievement further cements The Shires’ reputation as pioneers of the British country scene and highlights the continued growth of homegrown country music. The Shires continue to shape British country music Since emerging in 2015 with their debut album “Brave”, The Shires have broken new ground for British country artists. They became the first UK country act to secure a Top 10 album, followed by “My Universe”, which became the fastest-selling British country album of all time. They also remain the only British country artists to win a prestigious CMA Award. Where to catch The Shires on tour in 2026 The Shires Summer Festivals: Sun 26 July – Melbourne Hall, Derby Fri 28 August – The Long Road Festival, Leicestershire The Shires November UK full band headline tour: Tues 3 Nov – Glasgow Royal Concert Hall Thu 5 Nov – Gateshead Glasshouse Fri 6 Nov – York Barbican Sun 8 Nov – Manchester Bridgewater Hall Mon 9 Nov – Birmingham Symphony Hall Wed 11 Nov – London Palladium Thu 12 Nov – Brighton Dome Sat 14 Nov – Ipswich Regent Theatre Sun 15 Nov – Poole Lighthouse Mon 16 Nov – Swansea Building Society Arena Wed 18 Nov – Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Thu 19 Nov – Bedford Corn Exchange Fri 20 Nov – Bristol Beacon Purchase tickets HERE
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