Passion Play (GB)

(myspace) Formed in 1994 in Oxford, England, Passion Play created their own distinct sound and wore their hearts on their sleeves from the beginning. Fronted by singer/guitarist and songwriter Justin Stephens, their blend of stirring guitar arrangements and poignant lyrics began to capture underground attention as soon as they began venturing outside of their home town. 'Saints', from the debut 'Name No Names EP' in 1998 became an immediate favourite in clubs and generated their first invitation to Germany, which their first album, 'Stress Fractures' followed up on in 1999, featuring the stand-out favourite 'Down To You'. A UK tour and more european festival appearances followed, including the Wave Gotik Treffen in Leipzig in 2000.

The new and final album, 'The Final Act', was released in November 2012 on the 'aufnahme + wiedergabe' label from Berlin. Widely considered to be their best, 'The Final Act' is Passion Play's swan song, featuring new recordings of some old and no-longer-available songs, plus five brand new and never previously released songs. Having played some live shows across Germany towards the end of 2012, their one and only live show in 2013 will be their farewell show - returning to the Wave Gotik Treffen in Leipzig in May 2013 for one last time.