The Libertines Play Surprise Gig In London

The Libertines played a surprise gig in London tonight (March 31) at a press conference to announce their reunion.

Original band members Pete Doherty, Carl Barat, Gary Powell and John Hassall treated journalists and fans to a short set of songs at the Boogaloo pub.

The impromptu performance included favourites such as ‘The Good Old Days’, ‘Death On The Stairs’ and ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’.

The press conference followed the announcement on Monday that the group are to perform at the Reading and Leeds festivals in August.

Appearing together for the first time in five years, Barat told journalists that the timing of the reunion “felt right”.

“It’s not really our choice, its just finding the right moment,” Doherty added.

“Any chance to play to as many people as possible - and Reading and Leeds is as good as place as any.”


The Libertines meet journalists as they announce their reunion.

The four-piece sat all together on stools at the press conference, which at times saw both Doherty and Barat become frustrated with certain questions.

When asked if they had forgiven each other since their split, Barat replied: “What do you mean your bitterness? Well **** off wit your bitterness.”

Doherty also ridiculed a tabloid journalist who he claimed had called him a “crackhead”.

But there were also moments, like when Doherty urged Barat to do his grasshopper impression, where the pair showed their trademark camaraderie.

You can follow the press conference as it happened here.

The Libertines will be joined on the Reading and Leeds line-up by headliners Guns N’ Roses, Blink-182 and Arcade Fire.

The event takes place from August 27-29. Tickets are on sale now via Gigwise Gig Tickets.

For more information about Reading and Leeds and all this summer's festivals, check out the Gigwise Festival Guide.