Marr has also announced a gig in the Button Factory on May 12, where he’ll showcase his new album and some old fan favourites. ‘Call the Comet’ was recorded with his band at Marr’s Crazy Face Studios in Manchester. Marr describes the album as “my own magical realism”. He explained, “It’s set in the not-too-distant future and is mostly concerned with the idea of an alternative society. The characters in the songs are searching for a new idealism, although there are some personal songs in there too. It’s something that people like me can relate to.”

Johnny Marr has been playing music almost his entire life, forming his first band at the tender age of 13. In 1982 he formed the legendary The Smiths with Morrissey, gaining a formidable fan base and critical acclaim, with Marr’s distinctive guitar playing style becoming an essential part of The Smiths’ sound. Since The Smiths separated in 1987 due to personal differences between Marr and Morrissey, Marr hasn’t taken his foot off the gas. He’s been a member of The Pretenders, The The, Modest Mouse, Electronic and The Cribs, as well as working prolifically as a session musician with artists like Talking Heads and Hans Zimmer.

Tickets for Marr's Button Factory gig are available via Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan scheme, which is now open for fans to register their interest.