The iconic front man of sophisti-pop legends The Blow Monkeys breezes into the Hare and Hounds for an unusually intimate show in May. Funking up the eighties with a string of inventive chart topping hits The Blow Monkeys not only forged new ground in popular dance music but fearlessly addressed social issues, the 1986 single ‘Digging Your Scene’ raised awareness of AIDS during a terrible media fuelled backlash against the gay community. Over the years Dr Robert has worked with legends such as Curtis Mayfield, Paul Weller, Kym Mazelle, Beth Orton, Terry Callier and 60’s soul legend PP Arnold. Last year’s solo album ‘Out There’ recorded at his home in Spain on his ancient 8 track Tascam tape machine, was a beautifully lo-fi mix of dusty acoustic blues wedded to that unmistakably rich and velvety voice. Robert is joined by incredibly accomplished British folk guitarist Matt Deighton. This is a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with a true musical innovator, we don’t mind admitting that we’ve always had a soft spot for that magical flop of hair and those chiselled features, let the swooning commence.

Thu 11 May 7pm at The Hare and Hounds, High Street, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7JZ £12.50 www.eventim.co.uk