Antony Szmierek Announces Decoding Birdsong and 2026 UK Tour
Posted on Friday 8th May 2026 at 16:42
Written by
Jodie Averis
Antony Szmierek announces Decoding Birdsong and 2026 UK tour
Updated May 2026. Antony Szmierek has carved out one of the most unique spaces in British music. Blending spoken-word poetry, rave culture, indie-pop and sharp observations on modern life, the Manchester artist returns in 2026 with his second album, Decoding Birdsong, and a new UK headline tour.
Blending sharp observational lyricism with electronic grooves, indie textures and rave-era warmth, Szmierek has rapidly become one of the UK’s most distinctive emerging voices.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Details on the new album, Decoding Birdsong
- Confirmed 2026 UK tour dates
- Ticket on-sale information
- What to expect from Antony Szmierek live
- For Fans Of recommendations
About Decoding Birdsong
Set to be released on Friday 21st August 2026, Decoding Birdsong is Antony Szmierek's second offering, coming shortly after his critically acclaimed 2025 debut, Service Station At The End Of The Universe.
According to Antony Szmierek, Decoding Birdsong is about “choosing to believe in something”. Early single "The Heron" offers a glimpse into the album’s disco-inflected and spiritual direction, combining astute lyrical observations with the electronic warmth and sharp hooks that have become synonymous with his work.
Describing the track as “an antidote to modern malaise and a reminder to enjoy the stillness as well as the dance”, Szmierek hints at a record rooted equally in reflection and release.
In addition, the Manchester-born artist will see collaborations with producer Max Rad, indie singer-songwriter Ellur and darkwave-meets-alternative rock outfit Imogen and The Knife on Decoding Birdsong.
For Fans Of
Essential Antony Szmierek Songs
New to Antony Szmierek? Start with these songs for a quick route into his spoken-word storytelling, electronic warmth and sharp observational lyricism.
- “Chalk” — a hypnotic, electronic-led single from Decoding Birdsong.
- “The Heron” — an immersive glimpse into the themes and atmosphere of the new record.
- “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Fallacy” — a standout from his breakthrough debut.
- “Yoga Teacher” — a fan favourite that captures his mix of humour, rhythm and emotional detail.
From Spoken Word Stages to UK Headline Tours
Antony Szmierek began as a novelist and teacher before turning to music during the pandemic, sharing spoken-word performances online as a creative outlet. For a time, he balanced life in the classroom with a rapidly growing music career, playing festival stages before returning to teach English and Special Educational Needs the next morning.
The release of "The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Fallacy" from his 2023 EP Poems To Dance To proved a breakthrough moment, earning significant radio support and introducing listeners to his distinctive blend of club-ready electronic production and sharply observed storytelling. His rise was recognised by BBC 6 Music, which named him "Artist of the Year" in 2023 and an "Artist to Watch" in 2024.
His acclaimed debut album, Service Station At The End Of The Universe (2025), drew inspiration from artists such as LCD Soundsystem, Four Tet and Caribou while filtering those influences through a distinctly Mancunian lens. The record helped propel Szmierek onto some of the UK's biggest stages, including Glastonbury Festival, Reading & Leeds and Truck Festival. He has since sold out venues across the UK and Europe, and in February 2026, performed to 20,000 people while closing Solomun's set at Alexandra Palace.
Why Antony Szmierek Stands Out
Few artists occupy the space between spoken-word poetry and dance music quite like Antony Szmierek. His songs pair vivid observations of everyday life with euphoric electronic production, creating music that feels equally thoughtful and uplifting.
Drawing inspiration from rave culture, indie music and contemporary poetry, Szmierek has become one of the UK's most distinctive new voices, earning praise from BBC 6 Music and building a devoted live following across the country.
Key Releases
Explore the releases that have shaped Antony Szmierek’s rise, from his debut album to the new chapter of Decoding Birdsong.
Antony Szmierek 2026 UK Tour Dates
Antony Szmierek will take Decoding Birdsong across the UK in 2026:
- Friday 9th October 2026 - The Level, Nottingham
- Sunday 11th October 2026 - Cambridge Junction
- Friday 23rd October 2026 - Manchester Academy
When Do Tickets Go On Sale?
Tickets are on sale now!
What to Expect from Antony Szmierek Live
Working as a teacher has clearly helped Antony Szmierek in his life on stage, as he is able not only to command a stage with ease but also with an air of calm.
An Antony Szmierek show is something of a communion, with him leaping into the crowd, learning people's names, and the room singing back to him their favourites, such as "The Words To Auld Lang Syne" and "Rafters". He brings people together with his vibrant, uplifting atmosphere, and they leave smiling after the 'ravers-meet-poets' show.
Need to Know — Antony Szmierek
When is Decoding Birdsong released?
Decoding Birdsong is set to be released on Friday 21st August 2026.
When do tickets go on sale?
Antony Szmierek tickets are on sale now!
Which UK cities are included?
Antony Szmierek's Decoding Birdsong Tour will be in Cambridge, Nottingham and Manchester.
Who will enjoy Antony Szmierek?
Fans of The Streets, LCD Soundsystem, Joshua Idehen and spoken-word artists who blend storytelling with dance music will find plenty to love. Antony Szmierek's music combines rave energy, emotional honesty and sharp observations on everyday life, creating songs that feel equally suited to festival fields and late-night reflection.
Looking for more indie and alternative tours in 2026? Explore upcoming UK shows and new album tours.
READY TO SEE ANTONY SZMIEREK LIVE?
Browse all confirmed UK dates and secure tickets for the Decoding Birdsong tour.
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