James: How a Manchester Bar Moment Birthed a Long-Running Collaboration and a 2026 UK Tour

Tim Booth and Jim Glennie recount a chance Manchester bar encounter that forged a lasting James partnership, fueling a new studio album and a high-profile UK tour set for 2026.

Manchester’s James are reflecting on a moment of serendipity that reshaped their journey. Frontman Tim Booth recalls a university bar encounter that turned into a lifelong musical partnership.

How a bar moment sparked a band

In a bustling Manchester university bar, Booth noticed bassist Jim Glennie reaching for his drink. Rather than react with anger, the two struck up a conversation, and Glennie invited Booth to rehearse with his group the very next day. Booth shows up at 3 p.m.—and the connection was sealed from that moment.

That chance meeting gave birth to James, a band known for hits such as Sit Down and Say Something, who have continued to evolve while staying true to their core sound.

New album and UK tour

Now, the group is releasing a new album that revisits their classic tracks while introducing fresh material, offering longtime fans and new listeners a cohesive experience. They also announced a 2026 UK tour, extending their live circuit to cities across the country.

Key Takeaways

Serendipitous meeting in a Manchester bar sparked a decades-long collaboration between Tim Booth and Jim Glennie.
James released a new album blending beloved classics with new material.
A major UK tour is planned for 2026, keeping the band on stages nationwide.
The origin story underlines the enduring appeal of spontaneity in indie rock.

Expert comment

Music analyst Sarah Lane notes that James' ability to weave nostalgia with contemporary sound helps sustain their appeal across generations. The band's chemistry remains a driving force behind their live performances.

Summary

James' origin story—a bar-side conversation that led to a long-standing partnership—highlights the power of chance encounters in music. With a new album and a 2026 UK tour, the band continues to resonate with fans old and new. Their enduring success is rooted in the simple spark of collaboration.