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Chris Layhe, best known as the founding bassist and co-founder of the Liverpool-based alternative rock band The Icicle Works, which he formed in 1980 with singer-guitarist Ian McNabb.The band achieved commercial success in the 1980s after signing with Beggars Banquet Records, releasing their self-titled debut album in 1984, which featured the UK Top 20 single "Love Is a Wonderful Colour" (peaking at No. 15) and the US Top 40 hit "Birds Fly (Whisper to a Scream)" (peaking at No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100).
The Icicle Works went on to release three more studio albums—The Small Price of a Bicycle (1985),
If You Want to Defeat Your Enemy, Sing His Song (1987),
Blind (1988)—before the original lineup disbanded in 1988 amid internal tensions and touring fatigue.
Born in Liverpool and raised in the city's south end, Layhe began playing bass in the mid-1970s and contributed to the band's early DIY recordings, including their self-released cassette Ascending (1981), as well as notable BBC sessions for John Peel.
Following the band's breakup, Layhe has pursued a variety of musical endeavors, including teaching guitar and singing classes in Manchester as part of the city's lifelong learning program, serving as musical director for events like a human rights production at the People's History Museum, and performing on bass and vocals in tribute projects such as Songs of Stuart Adamson alongside members of Big Country and Steeleye Span.
In 2024, Layhe reunited with Ian McNabb for full electric Icicle Works tours across the UK, supported by Big Country.
He continues to identify as a multi-instrumentalist proficient in bass guitar, guitar, and vocals, with influences spanning rock, indie, folk, and blues.
Split Frenz are the UK’s number 1 tribute band to the mighty Split Enz and Crowded House. We recreate the 80’s New Wave pop of the band once dubbed as the New Zealand Beatles with an added touch Mancunian swagger. The original Split Enz featured two legendary members: Tim Finn and Neil Finn; in full vocal and instrumental prowess. A Split Enz live performance would be a combination of avant-garde sound, eccentric style, and a captivating stage presence, offering not just a concert but an unforgettable theatrical experience. We are on a mission to emulate the joy and chaos of the original Split Enz to warm the soul of old school fans and open the hearts of first time listeners.
Schedule.....
8.45 - 9.15 CHRIS LAYHE
9.30 - 10.30 SPLIT FRENZ
10.45 - 11.15 CHRIS LAYHE
Bar from 6pm, FREE ENTRY!
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Event venue
20 Wellington Road South, SK4 1AA Stockport, United Kingdom, 20 Wellington Road South, Stockport, SK4 1AA, United Kingdom
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