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The Ferret presents:JAMES WALSH
(Starsailor)
&
BEN OTTEWELL
(Gomez)
+ guests
Friday 29th May 2026
The Ferret, Preston
Doors 7pm
Tickets £25 advance
Tickets: https://theferret.live/listings/walsh-ottewell-2026
Experience an unforgettable night as two of the best voices of the past 30 years return to The Ferret for a special double bill, after their triumphant 2025 show. James Walsh of Starsailor and Ben Ottewell of Gomez will share the stage for a powerful evening of live music.
James Walsh - Starsailor frontman and solo artist - first found success as the lead singer, songwriter and guitarist with multi-platinum indie-rock band Starsailor. While known for iconic hits like Good Souls and Alcoholic, James has also carved out a powerful solo career, releasing acclaimed albums including Turning Point (2014), Tiger on the Bridge (2019), and Small Illusions (2021).
James has a prolific back catalogue, and his latest EP ‘Renewal’ offers the trademarks of James’ all-encompassing signature sound - beautifully-crafted songs, tender balladry, gorgeous melodies and candid lyricism which transports the listener into another dimension thanks to his captivating and endearing delivery.
Whether performing solo or with a band, James Walsh brings raw emotion and timeless songs to life with powerful, intimate live shows. From Starsailor hits to heartfelt solo tracks—every performance is unforgettable.
www.instagram.com/jameswalshmusic
Ben Ottewell is an English singer-songwriter and guitarist best known as a founding member of the critically acclaimed British band Gomez. Ottewell’s distinctive baritone voice and blues-inspired guitar work became central to Gomez’s unique sound.
Gomez formed in the late 1990s, quickly gaining attention for their eclectic style, which blended blues, rock, folk, and indie influences. Gomez’s 1998 debut album, Bring It On, was a breakout success, winning the prestigious Mercury Prize and propelling the band to international recognition.
Throughout Gomez's career, Ottewell's soulful voice and introspective lyrics resonated with fans, earning him a dedicated following. His solo career saw him exploring a more stripped-down acoustic sound, showcasing his raw talent and emotive storytelling. Ben is well known for his unmistakable voice and talent for blistering and inspired guitar solos.
And as GQ Magazine once wrote and anyone listening can attest, "[his] voice is not of this world.”
www.instagram.com/benottewell
—
The Ferret presents:
JAMES WALSH (Starsailor)
&
BEN OTTEWELL (Gomez)
+ guests
Friday 29th May 2026
The Ferret, Preston
Doors 7pm
Tickets £25 advance
Ticket link: skiddle.com/e/42161456
All ages welcome. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Accessible ground-floor venue & facilities.
Dog-friendly venue.
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Event Venue
The Ferret, 65-67 Fylde Road, Preston, PR1 2, United Kingdom
Tickets
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