Legendary UK rockers URIAH HEEP have announced that an old friend will be rejoining the band for a limited run of dates in May, when the band tour The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

John Lawton, who was lead vocalist between 1976 and 1979, will reunite with the band to cover for Bernie Shaw, who requires some time off for a routine medical procedure. John had already been confirmed to perform as a one-off guest at an outdoor amphitheatre Uriah Heep show in Spain on July 12th. This show at San Javier will now feature both singers and will serve as an occasion for the band to thank John.

As the shows will be recorded for official bootlegs, it promises to be a real treat for the fans. The sets will be skewed to songs reflecting John’s original tenure with the band, a celebration of classic 1970s Uriah Heep, this will be a unique chance to catch such a nostalgic performance, fronted by an ex-Uriah Heep legend, always a friend of the band, who has returned while Bernie Shaw recuperates.

The band's complete live itinerary can be found here.

Uriah Heep will be one of the headliners at the 2013 edition of the Metalitalia.com Festival, being held Saturday, May 11th at Via Mazzini 58, Trezzo Sull’Adda in Milan, Italy. The band will be performing a special best-of set spanning through all the hits of their fundamental career.

Several international and Italian special guests from various branches of heavy metal have also been invited to join such an important act including ARTILLERY, SCHIZO, GAMA BOMB, TORTURE SQUAD and ICY STEEL.

Organizers add: "The additional space outside the venue will allow us to comfortably accommodate the crowd, and will allow more room for the metal market, places to sit and other new additions such as tattoo artists, lounge rooms, etc. The Live Club is surrounded by free parking lots and can also provide meals thanks to a restaurant that oversees the stage. More newly confirmed bands and details will be announced shortly."

Ticket Prices:

Advance: €30 + service charge

Door: €35

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