Rival tour

The Autumn into Summer 2025 saw The Smouldering Shoulders on tour promoting the Fingering Tales of Andrew Epstein. The tour went well taking in many of the usual UK cites venues, arenas, stadiums and the like. Most of the venues were sold out and had a great energy. The long time rivals those Manchester upstarts, kicking off their reunion tour in summer caused clashed with the bands tour dates. Noble and Richardson attending the Manc’s gig instead of playing The Shoulders tour caused a rift in the band.

The day after the cancelled gig at Bamburgh Castle, Jamie McKinley was killed—thrown from the wall and impaled on a cricket wicket. This unexpected absence led to heated discussions among the remaining band members, with some questioning the group’s commitment to their fans. Rumours began circulating in the music press about possible splits and future solo projects, adding fuel to the already tense atmosphere within The Smouldering Shoulders.

Separation and cancellation

After McKinley’s death, the band cancelled their remaining tour dates and went their separate ways. Dickie Bird, Jamie’s former partner, delivered a touching eulogy at the funeral and died soon after, on September 23, 2025. The remaining members dispersed to their respective homes and favourite places following the funeral in late August.

The fallout from Jamie’s death was immediate and profound. Fans gathered outside venues, leaving tributes of flowers, band memorabilia, and handwritten notes, while social media buzzed with theories and heartfelt messages. The band’s management released a brief statement expressing shock and grief, but uncertainty loomed over the remaining tour dates. they were cancelled for the foreseeable but no refunds were issued, over a possible future date being planned for fans.

In the weeks that followed, the music world was gripped by speculation. Former tour crew members gave interviews reflecting on McKinley’s final days, while tribute concerts were hastily organised across the country.

The impact of these events reverberated not just within the band, but across their devoted fanbase and the wider music community. Industry insiders speculated about whether The Smouldering Shoulders would ever regroup, while radio stations played tributes and retrospective specials dedicated to McKinley’s dynamic stage presence and songwriting legacy. In the weeks that followed, the sense of loss was palpable, with many questioning what the future held for one of the era’s most influential acts