Prog pioneers The John Hackett Band 

Round & About

The John Hackett Band make their debut at The Northcourt, Abingdon, on Saturday, 15th November 

Progressive rock fans are in for a treat this autumn, as The John Hackett Band bring their genre-defying sound to The Northcourt in Abingdon on Saturday, 15th November. With a line-up that epitomises the spirit of prog, the band promise an evening of dazzling musicianship, eclectic styles, and unforgettable energy – with the added bonus of Oxfordshire’s very own Forgotten Gods sharing the stage. 
 
Fronted by the much-loved flautist and composer John Hackett, the band weave together a heady mix of sounds. From John’s lyrical flute passages to the funky rhythm section of drummer Duncan Parsons and bassist Jeremy Richardson, topped by the intricate guitar work of Nick Fletcher, their music journeys through pop, rock, jazz, classical, and funk. Tender ballads sit alongside hair-raising instrumental workouts, creating a show that’s as diverse as it is compelling. 
 
John Hackett has been a central figure in progressive rock since the mid-1970s, first gaining recognition alongside his brother, Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett, on albums including Voyage of the Acolyte, Sketches of Satie and Please Don’t Touch. Alongside these collaborations, he has carved his own path as a solo artist with acclaimed albums such as Checking Out of London, Another Life and The Piper Plays His Tune. The 2025 tour celebrates the release of his new album Red Institution, with audiences also treated to highlights from Voyage of the Acolyte — a true prog classic. 
 
Adding an international dimension to the evening is special guest Dikajee, the Russian-born singer-songwriter whose ethereal voice and genre-blending style have captivated audiences across Europe and the US. Her 2021 album ForgetNots earned her the title of #4 Vocalist of the Year in Prog Magazine’s readers’ poll, and she now calls the UK home, with a new album The Frame set for release soon. 
 
Anchoring the bill firmly in Oxfordshire are Forgotten Gods, a local band renowned for their commanding stage presence and powerful soundscapes. Their appearance brings the evening full circle, ensuring local talent takes its place alongside international names in what promises to be an unmissable celebration of progressive music. 
 
With three distinctive acts on one bill, the concert promises to be part-festival, part-cosmic trip – a night of boundary-pushing music that still honours its roots.