Big Special announce Leeds date on 2026 UK tour

Fresh from releasing their surprise second album National Average. in July via SO Recordings, rising British duo Big Special have unveiled their new single ‘Plaintive Native’ and announced a run of UK tour dates for February 2026 – including a stop in Yorkshire at Leeds University Stylus on 18 February.

‘Plaintive Native’ continues Big Special’s distinctive mix of raw honesty, political bite and industrial energy. Speaking about the new track, frontman Joe Hicklin said: “The song is about political turmoil clouding the minds of the nation that turns moral conviction into apathy. It’s about worry for the future and a lack of hope. It’s the confusion of trying to be good when everything is so bad and not knowing how to navigate and trust all the wagging fingers and waving fists.”

From small stages to sell-outs

The Walsall duo – Joe Hicklin and Callum Moloney – have seen their rise accelerate at a remarkable pace. In August 2023, they played their first London headline show at Camden’s Dublin Castle with just one release to their name. Less than two years later, they filled the O2 Forum Kentish Town, celebrating the success of their acclaimed debut Postindustrial Hometown Blues. Their latest album National Average. charts that journey, exploring the highs of success and the ongoing battles of mental and emotional endurance.

Big Special’s story is one of brotherhood and resilience. Built on a decades-long friendship, they balance dark humour with raw truth, their songs reflecting both frustration and faith in the human spirit. With support from NME, BBC Radio One, BBC 6 Music, Rough Trade, CLASH, MOJO and Rolling Stone UK, the pair continue to evolve as one of the country’s most vital new voices.

Big Special play Leeds University Stylus on Tuesday 18 February 2026. Tickets available here.