Canadian musician Chris Murphy of Sloan is set to embark on a tour across the United Kingdom and Ireland with an R.E.M. tribute band led by actor Michael Shannon. Despite his usual focus on Sloan’s original hits like “Money City Maniacs” and “The Rest of My Life,” Murphy is diving into the challenge of learning American rock classics for this gig, which includes just one rehearsal before hitting the road.
The tribute shows, named Michael Shannon & Jason Narducy And Friends, will feature songs from R.E.M.’s 1986 album, Lifes Rich Pageant, along with other tracks from the band’s discography. John Stirratt, the regular bassist, is unavailable due to touring commitments with Wilco, leading Murphy to step in as a replacement due to his friendship with Narducy and Wurster, the group’s drummer.
Murphy, who typically drums for Trans-Canada Highwaymen, is excited about the opportunity to play alongside Narducy and Wurster, whom he regards as indie rock veterans with diverse musical experiences. The upcoming tour follows successful past performances by Shannon and Narducy, including a show honoring R.E.M.’s Murmur album, which ultimately paved the way for this extended tour.
Acknowledging R.E.M.’s influence on his own band, Sloan, Murphy finds it ironic that he’ll be performing R.E.M. music, especially since his bandmate, Jay Ferguson, is a huge R.E.M. fan. Despite some nerves about the gig, Murphy is looking forward to the experience and the chance to pay tribute to a band he greatly admires.