THEY'RE the band that made country the soundtrack to the summer, performing at a series of high profile music festivals and events including Platform and Lakes Festivals as well as supporting Sir Tom Jones at Bedford Park.

This followed a headline debut at Glastonbury Festival for The Shires.

This tour will see the critically acclaimed pair play tracks from their forthcoming album, alongside fan favourites from their gold selling debut ‘Brave’ to gig goers up and down the country, including Southampton's 02 Guildhall on Monday.

Ben Earle told the Daily Echo: "It’s something magical to be on stage and sharing your songs and seeing the fans’ reaction. We’re particularly excited to share our new tracks with the fans on this tour.”

The live dates will follow an intense period of song writing for the Shires, who have been working on their new album in Music City: Nashville. Ben and Crissie co-wrote some tracks with top country music writers including Kip Moore and recorded their album at Sound Stage Studios, one of the most prestigious recording studios in Nashville, which has cut records for other country superstars such as Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. They also graced the stage at the famous Grand Ole Opry and can add their name to Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, Garth Brooks and a veritable who’s who of Country music who have played at the famous Nashville landmark venue.

They are supported by Canaan Smith

See 02guildhallsouthampton.co.uk or call 023 8063 2601.