ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL is to become a rock venue later this month when Elbow play a concert in the famous old church’s crypt.


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It might not quite make up for being snubbed for Will and Kate’s wedding in favour of Westminster Abbey, but nevertheless marks a first for one of London’s major churches.

The gig by the Mercury Award winners is part of a summer series to be hosted by Absolute Radio, the station that has already held rock shows at both Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament.

“Elbow are a hugely popular band amongst our audiences and we are incredibly proud they are kicking off Absolute Radio Live,” said Absolute Radio’s Clive Dickens.

“To do it in such a memorable setting as St Paul’s Cathedral will make it all the more special.”

The choice of Elbow as the first rock performers at St Paul’s might have something to with the fact that songs from band’s latest album -Build a Rocket Boys! – have been compared to hymns.

Tickets for the St Paul’s concert are not available on general sale, but instead will be handed to winners of a competition, which you can enter here.

If you miss out on a ticket for that one, Elbow are playing at the Reading Festival on 28 August.

The Elbow/St Paul’s gig takes place on the evening of Thursday 26 May and will be broadcast on 5 June by Absolute.