A LIFESAVER.

That is how former Slydigs frontman Dean Fairhurst feels about how music has helped him over the last two years ahead of a return to Warrington in the form of Friars Court 2 on Saturday, December 11.

Following Slydigs hiatus in 2018, Dean created Standin’ Man as a solo project just before the pandemic and this project gave him focus.

“Being able to escape from the noise of the pandemic within the creation of songs. Sitting down, writing and creating with others, it’s a lifesaver in many ways,” Dean, who is now based around Great Sankey said.

“It was a good release to keep your sanity. It was like a healing process with what was going on outside and being locked up in a room and studio – it was a great way to escape and develop from where I finished off with from the previous band.”

“Now is the time where the future looks a little bit brighter. It’s time to get out and do some shows and get back performing on stage again.”

And Dean will do so as Standin’ Man, with a history of touring with the likes of The Who, Def Leopard, Liam Gallagher and others. He cannot wait.

Dean, 34, added: “I’m extremely happy to be playing in Warrington and seeing how this first headline show goes.

“I’m excited to perform it for us as people who have recorded it over two years which has hidden us away from the turmoil of the pandemic.”

He will be playing songs from the new album and some songs that might not feature on it. The album has been produced by Jim Spencer who has worked with New Order, The Charlatans and Johnny Marr.

The album is set to be released in 2022 and Dean has signed a deal with Wixen Publishing who look after the likes of The Black Keys, Tom Petty and The Doors music and has additionally signed with Trinifold Management.

“It’s good to be back. It’s good to be back on the stage after a long time,” Dean, who grew up in Burtonwood, added.

“It’s going to be interesting but it’s before we’ve released anything. Warrington was the obvious place to start in the new venue which is a very good venue.

“For all its great parts, I believe Warrington has suffered for not having enough smaller venues.

“It’s allowed us to escape so it’s good to get out there and get other people and the audience involved.”

Tickets for December 11 can be found here.