ICONIC singer and performer Marc Almond has announced a full UK tour in April 2015 to follow the release of his much-awaited new record – entitled The Velvet Trail.

The Velvet Trail tour is Marc's first major solo jaunt in two years.

The show will include a mixture of old and new material and will have an emphasis on the pop, big ballad and electronic rock side of Marc's catalogue.

Fans attending the shows will enjoy a live premiere of tracks from his new album, due for release in March next year, together with acclaimed 2014 extended EP ‘The Dancing Marquis’ and chance to relive his greatest hits and old classics.

Marc is joined by loyal stage companions Neal X on guitars, Martin Watkins on piano and keyboards, Carl Holt on bass and Tim Weller on drums with the addition of Kelly Dayton and Billie Godfrey on backing vocals.

Pop legend Marc is looking to add more dates and make a presence on next year’s festival circuit.

The eclectic artist, last year’s recipient of the Ivor Novello Inspiration Award, is currently touring with Jools Holland, following the 2013’s triumph of his award winning Ten Plagues song cycle performances and subsequent album release.

Almond said: “I'm really excited about the tour and the new album The Velvet Trail, I can't wait to perform some of the songs live - this will be one of the most exciting shows I’ve ever staged.”

As part of the tour he will be playing at Birmingham Town Hall on April 17.

Tickets are available from Gigsandtours.com, ticketmaster.co.uk plus 0844 811 0051.