Folk-rock legends Magna Carta will return to South African shores for the first time in 30 years this September.

Fans of classics such as Airport Song, Time for the Leaving and Highway to Spain will have a chance to witness Magna Carta's special brand of acoustic music in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western and Eastern Cape.

In support of their latest album, Backroads, the band will showcase their memorable songwriting and virtuoso playing with a headline slot at the White Mountain Folk Festival in KZN (over the Heritage Day long weekend).

Shows at the Armchair Theatre in Cape Town and the Blues Room in Johannesburg are also in the pipeline, as is a string of sets in the Eastern Cape. In founding member Chris Simpson’s words, “wherever you are we’ll give you a time to remember… Apart from looking forward to returning very much, I feel that the time is right, for we have never been on better form.”

Magna Carta will be supported by local folk-minimalist Arlyn and by rising stars Harris Tweed.

Chris Simpson is accompanied by Linda Taylor on guitar and woodwind, and Matt Barnhoorn – who also guests with the classic English folk band Fairport Convention – on electric mandolin and violin. Founded in April 1969, Magna Carta became one of the greatest protagonists of the English folk-rock scene. With notable classics such as Seasons, Lord of the Ages and Putting it Back Together and with album sales in excess of 8 million units worldwide, Magna Carta’s significance is difficult to question.

Further tour dates to be announced. For enquiries, sponsorship offers, or bookings, e-mail arlyn@warcrymag.com or visit www.magnac.com for updates.