Cambridge-born singer-songwriter Boo Hewerdine reunites with guitarist Neill MacColl for the release of 'Anticlockwise', a previously unheard album recorded more than three decades ago.
A forgotten chapter of Cambridge's musical history is set to resurface this November as British band The Bible prepare to release Anticlockwise, a previously unreleased album originally recorded in 1989.
The Bible emerged from the city's music scene during the 1980s, developing a reputation for their distinctive blend of acoustic pop, folk, indie and rock influences. Now, more than 30 years after the album was rejected by their record label, Anticlockwise will finally be made available to listeners.
From Cambridge's Music Scene to the UK Charts
Hewerdine's connection with Cambridge goes back to the beginnings of his musical career. Before forming The Bible, he was involved in the city's emerging music scene, playing with local bands and developing the songwriting style that would eventually establish him as a respected figure in British music.
The Bible went on to attract attention with their independently released debut album, Walking The Ghost Back Home, before signing to Chrysalis Records. Their second album, Eureka, produced by American singer-songwriter Steve Earle, further demonstrated their musical ambitions.
Songs including 'Graceland' and 'Honey Be Good' helped introduce the band to a wider audience, combining memorable melodies, thoughtful lyrics and an unmistakably British acoustic pop sound.
The Album That Never Saw the Light of Day
Following the success of their earlier recordings, The Bible began working on their third studio album in 1989. Self-produced, Anticlockwise continued the band's exploration of melodic songwriting, acoustic arrangements and accomplished musicianship.
However, the finished record was rejected by their label and never officially released.
The album subsequently remained an unreleased part of the band's history, despite representing an important moment in their musical development. Its November 2026 release will finally allow audiences to hear material that has remained out of public reach for decades.
A Musical Family Legacy
Guitarist MacColl also brings an extraordinary musical background to the project. He is the son of influential folk musicians Ewan MacColl and Peggy Seeger, and the brother of the late singer-songwriter Kirsty MacColl, whose collaboration with The Pogues on 'Fairytale of New York' remains one of the UK's most recognisable Christmas songs.
Neill has developed his own career as a guitarist and musical director, including working with David Gray. His partnership with Hewerdine remains central to The Bible's musical identity.
Hewerdine, meanwhile, has continued to build an acclaimed songwriting career, writing for and collaborating with artists including Eddi Reader, as well as seeing his songs recorded by performers such as k.d. lang and Natalie Imbruglia.
A New Opportunity to Discover a Cambridge Music Story
The release of Anticlockwise offers longtime followers of The Bible an opportunity to revisit the band's history, while introducing their music to a new generation.
For Cambridge, the announcement also provides a reminder of the city's contribution to British music and the artists who developed their careers within its local music scene.
More than three decades after its recording, Anticlockwise is finally getting the release it never received in 1989.
The Bible's 'Anticlockwise' is scheduled for release in November 2026.
