THE irrepressible former Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett is set to bring his UK tour to Reading this weekend.

For the first time ever, Steve, 69, will perform the seminal Genesis album Selling England By The Pound in its entirety, when he brings his show to The Hexagon on Saturday, November 16.

Released in 1973, the album went to number three in the UK charts and has been described as ‘the definitive Genesis album.’

It includes firm favourites such as Dancing with the Moonlit Knight, Firth of Fifth, Cinema Show and I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe).

Other favourite classic Genesis tracks will also feature in the show.

2019 also marks the 40th anniversary of one of Steve’s most popular solo albums, Spectral Mornings, and Steve will be celebrating the milestone by performing masterpieces from the album.

Fans will also be treated to highlights from Steve’s current album At the Edge of Light which went straight in at number three on the Rock Chart and top 30 in the UK Album chart at the beginning of the year.

Speaking about his tour, Steve explains: “I’m thrilled to be performing the whole of my favourite Genesis album, Selling England by the Pound, which caught the attention of John Lennon in 1973.

“I felt that I was now playing guitar in the world’s best band, and everything was opening up for us.

“Also I look forward to playing all the favourite songs from Spectral Mornings, marking its anniversary, plus new album tasters, as well as additional Genesis gems in a terrific grand slam.”

Joining Steve on the tour are his regular musicians Roger King (keyboards), Jonas Reingold (bass), Rob Townsend (saxes/flutes) with Nad Sylvan on vocals.

Craig Blundell will be on drums and percussion - he was voted by Modern Drummer and Rhythm Magazine readers as one of the top progressive and forward thinking drummers in the world.

Since the 1970’s Steve has had a remarkable musical career - renowned as both an immensely talented and innovative rock musician and a virtuoso classical guitarist and composer.

He has released more than 30 solo albums, seven Genesis albums and worked alongside Steve Howe of YES with supergroup GTR.

Recognised as one of the most innovative rock musicians of our time, in 2010 he was inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame.