Watch Sunflower Bean’s Julia Cumming step in on bass for Wolf Alice as they support Olivia Rodrigo on US tour

During Olivia Rodrigo’s extensive US 'Unraveled Tour,' Sunflower Bean frontwoman Julia Cumming has stepped in as the bassist for the alt-rock band Wolf Alice, who are among the supporting acts. This substitution covers Wolf Alice's performances throughout October, filling in for bassist Theo Ellis, who is currently on leave as he welcomes a new family addition.

The 'Unraveled Tour' marks a major live campaign for Olivia Rodrigo, promoting her third studio album, 'You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love.' Following her successful debut 'Sour' in 2021, Rodrigo has embarked on this 65-date tour starting in late September, with stops in key cities such as Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, and North Carolina. Wolf Alice, acclaimed for their dynamic performances and recent successes, have been supporting Rodrigo during these appearances.

Wolf Alice’s bassist Theo Ellis has temporarily stepped back from touring to focus on his family, prompting the invitation to Julia Cumming to fill his role. Cumming, known for her work with Sunflower Bean and her recent solo debut, publicly shared her excitement about joining Wolf Alice, highlighting the personal significance of stepping in during this period.

Footage from the tour showcases Cumming performing alongside Wolf Alice’s lead vocalist Ellie Rowsell, delivering tracks such as 'Play The Greatest Hits' with notable enthusiasm. Cumming has expressed admiration for Ellis’s bass playing, emphasizing the honor she feels in representing the band on stage during his absence.

This collaboration follows Cumming’s earlier involvement with Wolf Alice on their 'The Clearing: B Sides' album, where she contributed to a cover of The Roches’ 'Hammond Song.' The band’s latest official studio album, 'The Clearing,' achieved significant acclaim, including a second UK number one and a fourth consecutive Mercury Prize nomination.

Wolf Alice recently celebrated a triumphant homecoming show at London’s Finsbury Park, underscoring their status as one of the UK's most respected contemporary rock groups. Their evolving sound and ambitious live sets continue to draw critical praise, with bassist Theo Ellis noting the challenges and growth involved in performing material from their latest recordings.

Julia Cumming’s musical trajectory has also been gaining momentum; earlier this year, she released her debut solo album, 'Julia,' which introduced audiences to a reflective and nuanced songwriting style. Her presence on the current tour with Wolf Alice not only bridges her own artistic endeavors but also underscores the interconnectedness within the indie and alternative rock scenes.

Wolf Alice’s support role on Rodrigo’s tour includes upcoming dates in Chicago, Boston, Montreal, Toronto, and Columbus throughout October. Cumming’s temporary tenure on bass highlights a practical yet creative solution for the band as they balance personal commitments with demanding touring schedules.

While the full scope of this collaboration and how it might influence future projects remains to be seen, the current arrangement offers fans a unique live experience, combining talents across notable acts in contemporary music. Details about the continuation of Wolf Alice’s lineup post-October have not been disclosed, leaving some aspects open.

Overall, Julia Cumming’s engagement with Wolf Alice on this major US tour illustrates the collaborative spirit within the music industry and the adaptability artists demonstrate when faced with life’s changing circumstances.