Mick McConnell – Things Are Looking Up
Smokie guitarist Mick McConnell is preparing to release his new solo album, Things Are Looking Up
Mick McConnell – Things Are Looking Up
Format: CD / Digital
Label: independent
Release date: November 9, 2026
Smokie guitarist Mick McConnell is preparing to release his new solo album, Things Are Looking Up, on November 9, 2026. Best known for his long-standing role with the legendary British rock band Smokie, McConnell continues to explore his passion for blues-rock with his own band, Blue Thunder.
With Things Are Looking Up, McConnell presents ten original songs combining contemporary blues-rock with classic rock influences, soulful melodies and carefully crafted songwriting. The album was produced by Stuart McCreadie and Mick McConnell.
Before establishing himself as an internationally touring guitarist, McConnell worked as an in-house songwriter for Warner Chappell. That experience continues to influence his approach to music, placing strong melodies and meaningful lyrics at the heart of his compositions.
The new album explores a variety of emotions and experiences. The title track reflects optimism, while Worst Of Me focuses on self-reflection. Pearly Gates offers a more light-hearted perspective on mortality.
McConnell previously released his second solo album, Under My Skin, in 2017. Produced in collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Blue Miller, the album reached number 13 on the European Blues Chart.
Alongside the new release, Mick McConnell & Blue Thunder are touring the UK and Ireland throughout autumn 2026, bringing their energetic blend of blues and rock to clubs, festivals and concert venues.
Website: https://mickmcconnell.com/
Tracks:
Tracklist
01. Things Are Looking Up
02. Back In Town
03. Ain’t Gonna Lose
04. All About It
05. Rip It Up
06. Worst Of Me
07. Tie Me Down
08. Stop Stop Stop
09. Pearly Gates
10. Stitch On Me
Line-up:
Mick McConnell – Lead Vocals/Guitar
Tsutomu “Atom” Abe – Keyboards
Lincoln Roth – Bass Guitar/Vocals
Bob Pears – Drums
Donna Thompson – Backing Vocals
Michel McConnell: Supplied By Artist’s Website.
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