Over the last three decades, singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Gary Louris has built a deeply compelling body of music whose artistry and integrity has won the loyalty of an international audience and the respect of both critics and his peers. Best known for his seminal work with The Jayhawks, he is one of the most acclaimed musicians to come out of Minnesota’s vibrant rock scene.
Concurrent with his time in the Jayhawks, Louris has been a charter member of the part-time alt-rock supergroup Golden Smog, which at various times has included members of Soul Asylum, Wilco, the Replacements and Big Star. Louris also formed Au Pair with North Carolina artist Django Haskins in 2015 and released an album that same year.
Along the way Louris has produced records by various artists, contributed songs to Grammy Award-winning albums by the Tedeschi/Trucks Band and The Dixie Chicks; and recorded with acts as diverse as the Black Crowes, Counting Crows, Uncle Tupelo, Joe Henry, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, Roger McGuinn, Maria McKee, Nickel Creek, Carrie Rodriguez, Tift Merritt and the Wallflowers.
Louris released his first solo album, Vagabonds, in 2008. His long awaited second solo album, Jump For Joy, came out in June 2021. In 2021 Louris also launched a Patreon page, featuring weekly posts of new and old music, video content, commentary and more. 
In the summer of 2024, Louris announced on Patreon that his third solo album would be released in early 2025. Dark Country was released on February 14, 2025 on Sham/Thirty Tigers.
Along with keeping the Jayhawks flame burning, Louris is currently looking to the future and is busier than ever – writing, performing, producing and exploring new collaborative opportunities.

Description

The iconic and legendary Water Rats has re-opened under new ownership and new management.

The venue has a prestigious history including Bob Dylan's first UK gig in 1962, The Pogues first gig in 1982 and Oasis' first London gig in 1994, along with a roll call of other household names throughout the years from Katy Perry to The Courteeners to Ra Ra Riot.

The Water Rats has undergone a top to bottom refurbishment.

There is a brand new high end D&B PA system, large stage and proper stage lighting rig.

Full Backline is provided if required: drum kit (minus breakables), bass amp (Hartke stack), 2 x guitar amps (Marshall stack and Fender combo).

The Water Rats is superbly located in what is the increasingly vibey music centre of King's Cross with unmatched transport links for London and beyond.

The venue also now offers great food from its brand new kitchen and a wide selection of drinks.

See you soon! The Water Rats.