The 1975 cancel all 2021 live dates

The 1975 have axed the entirety of its 2021 live schedule amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The band, which is fronted by Matty Healy, stated safety concerns and the importance of fans securing refunds as the reason for their decision to pull a year of shows that was set to include European and North American arena dates, themselves re-scheduled from 2020.

“These are incredibly difficult times for a lot of people, and until we can be sure that we will be able to play shows in a way that is safe for our fans and crew, we have decided the best course of action is to cancel our touring so that, where possible, everyone can get their tickets refunded sooner rather than later,” a statement posted on The 1975's social media accounts reads.

In addition to the news about the live shows, The 1975 also confirmed work has begun on the follow-up to 2020 album Notes On A Conditional Form. “We’re currently making a new album and look forward to seeing you all at a show as soon as it is safe to do so,” the band confirmed.

The 1975 have become one of the first major acts to pull 2021 dates entirely. Earlier this week Dr Anthony Fauci outlined his belief that live music could return to North America in the fall, once 70% of the population has been vaccinated.