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NEIL DIAMOND (NEC, June 10 2008)

12-12-2007

Neil Diamond heads back to Britain for his first shows in almost four years – and there’s a date at the NEC. Tickets go on sale this Friday.

Diamond has been fixture with British audiences since his breakthrough hit Cracklin’ Rose in the early '70s and his enduring appeal is demonstrated by the fact that he’s still playing the large halls.

On occasion, he’s veered dangerously towards the MOR morass (You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, fer chrissake) but Sweet Caroline and his (original) version of I’m A Believer still possess a gravelly richness.

Rick Rubin attempted to resurrect Diamond’s critical reputation with his pared-down “12 Songs” project, and although it wasn’t quite as successful as the producer’s awesome quartet of “American” albums with Johnny Cash it has helped ensure a positive re-assessment of his considerable qualities.

Check out a few samples of that record here http://tinyurl.com/28l9x5 Tracks for a second album in the series will be premiered on the tour.