The Blockheads announce new album, tour

Ian Dury's former band The Blockheads have announced a new studio album and tour.

Staring Down The Barrel will be released on April 6 and is the band's second record since Dury passed away from cancer in 2000.

The music on the new LP has been written by pianist/guitarist Chaz Jankel, with the lyrics penned by new singer Derek "The Draw" Hussey.

Sgt Pepper designer and Dury's former art tutor Sir Peter Blake has illustrated the CD inlay for the album.

As well as some gigs in France, the band will support the album with a full UK tour.

The dates include a concert at London's Electric Ballroom, featuring original saxophonist Davey Payne for one night only.

The full tour dates are as follows:

• April 1 - The Junction, Cambridge


• April 8 - The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury


• April 11 - The Old Market, Brighton


• April 15 - Towngate Theatre, Basildon


• April 17 - The Venue, Wakefield


• April 18 - Ripley Blues, Harrogate


• April 19 - The Sage, Gateshead


• April 22 - The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon


• April 24 - Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage


• April 25 - The Brook, Southampton


• April 26 - The Boardwalk, Sheffield


• April 30 - Electric Ballroom, London


• May 2 - The Palace Theatre, Southend