Sometimes rock ’n’ roll has to hit pause — not for drama, not for ego, but for health. And right now, that’s exactly what’s happening on the Scandinavian leg of The Magicians Farewell tour.
The band have confirmed that Mick has been taken ill and, as a result, will not be able to perform the first few shows of the tour, which kicks off this week in Tampere, Finland.
It’s never easy delivering news like this, especially when fans are primed, tickets are clutched, and the amps are already humming. But health comes first — always. 🖤
🖤 Mick’s Health Comes First
The good news? Mick’s progress is being monitored daily, and the plan is for him to be back on the road as soon as he’s fit and fighting again.
The band have shared that Mick sends his sincere apologies to everyone affected and his love to the fans, promising he’ll return the moment he’s able.
No drama. No ego. Just honesty and respect — which we always salute. 👏
🤝 Sam Wood Steps In – Last Minute, Full Respect
In true rock ’n’ roll community fashion, the band have pulled together and found a solution that keeps the show alive.
Stepping in at the very last minute is Sam Wood, known for his work with Black Star Riders and Wayward Sons, and he’s doing it with Mick’s full blessing.
That’s no small ask. Filling in on a major tour is pressure-city, mun — but Sam’s stepping up, guitar in hand, heart in the right place. If you’re heading to one of these shows, give him the warmest welcome possible. Proper job. 🤘🔥
🫶 A Massive Thank You to the Fans
The band have also taken a moment to thank fans for their understanding and patience during what’s clearly an unfortunate situation.
This is the rock scene at its best:
- Bands supporting bands
- Fans supporting artists
- Music still happening, even when plans wobble
That’s community. That’s why we’re all here. 🖤
🔔 What Happens Next?
- Shows are still going ahead
- Sam Wood will cover the dates Mick can’t make
- Updates on Mick’s recovery will be shared as they come
- The band will see fans starting tomorrow
We’re sending Mick all the good vibes, clean bills of health, and speedy-recovery riffs from Wales and beyond. 💪🎸
Get well soon, legend — the stage is waiting.
— The Riff Report 🤘🔥
Michael is the founder, editor, and chief riff wrangler behind The Riff Report, an independent Welsh rock and metal publication built by fans, for fans. With a lifelong passion for loud guitars, unforgettable live shows, and the incredible community that surrounds rock and metal, he created The Riff Report to celebrate everything that makes the scene special—from legendary headline acts and grassroots venues to rising bands that deserve to be heard.
A familiar face at festivals across the UK, Michael spends much of the year covering events including Download Festival, Bloodstock Open Air, Steelhouse Festival, Firevolt, Plumpton Revival, and many more. Whether he’s battling the Welsh weather on a mountainside, surviving a weekend in a muddy campsite, or squeezed against the front barrier with thousands of fellow fans, he’s always searching for the next great story to share.
As editor of The Riff Report, Michael writes festival guides, breaking news, album reviews, gig reviews, interviews, opinion pieces, nostalgia features, and behind-the-scenes stories from across the rock and metal world. His writing combines honest opinions, humour, and a genuine love for live music, bringing readers closer to the bands, festivals, venues, and people that keep the scene alive.
Michael is particularly passionate about supporting independent artists, local venues, charities, and the wider UK rock and metal community. He believes every band deserves a chance to be discovered and every festival has a story worth telling. Through The Riff Report, he aims to shine a spotlight on both the biggest names in rock and the future stars waiting to break through.
When he’s not writing or interviewing artists, you’ll probably find him exploring festival campsites, photographing live shows, chatting with fellow fans over a pint, or planning the next road trip in search of more riffs, bigger crowds, and unforgettable moments.
Above all, Michael believes rock and metal are about more than music—they’re about community, friendship, and creating memories that last a lifetime. That’s exactly what The Riff Report exists to celebrate.
Proudly Welsh. Proudly Loud. Always chasing the next great riff. 🤘
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