Alternative metal veterans Faith No More have sparked considerable excitement among their fanbase, hinting at a potential live return in 2027. The influential American band, known for their genre-bending sound and charismatic frontman Mike Patton, shared a minimalist image online featuring a concert crowd with the simple overlay of “2027”. This cryptic post has immediately led to widespread speculation that a new tour or significant announcement is on the horizon for next year.
The band has maintained a low profile for much of the past decade, following the release of their comeback album ‘Sol Invictus’ in 2015. Their last live performances took place in 2016, and subsequent attempts to hit the road have been thwarted. Plans for a 2020 tour were cancelled due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, and further dates scheduled for 2021 were also scrapped, with Patton openly attributing the cancellations to his struggles with mental health, including a diagnosis of agoraphobia.
The prospect of a reunion had seemed increasingly distant, with Patton himself recently reflecting on the band’s extended hiatus. In an interview on the ‘Kyle Meredith With…’ podcast, he suggested he felt a “sense of closure” after the 2016 tour, indicating that while unspoken, the band might have collectively sensed it was a natural pause. He added that he didn't view the hiatus as a “sad thing,” but rather as an opportunity to appreciate the present moment.
Despite never officially disbanding, other members of Faith No More had also voiced their uncertainty regarding the band's future. Guitarist Roddy Bottum commented last year that the band was in a “really weird spot” and admitted to receiving conflicting information about their prospects. Similarly, drummer Mike Bordin stated last spring that while he and some bandmates were open to performing live, Patton was reportedly “unwilling to do shows with us,” highlighting the challenges faced in coordinating a return.
Beyond Faith No More, Mike Patton has remained active in various other musical projects, fronting bands such as Mr. Bungle, Fantômas, and Tomahawk. Tomahawk recently announced their first tour in 13 years, scheduled to take place across the US this summer. Patton has also been touring with the Avett Brothers and recently collaborated with Jehnny Beth on a new single, 'Look At Me'. The timing of this new Faith No More tease, amidst Patton’s other commitments, adds another layer of intrigue to the potential 2027 comeback.
Faith No More’s unique blend of alternative metal, funk, and experimental rock has garnered them a dedicated global following, including a significant UK fanbase. Their influence on a generation of British musicians and their iconic performances have cemented their place in rock history, making any hint of new activity a major talking point within the UK music scene.
Source: NME