French progressive rock artist Franck Carducci’s new studio album, Sheeple, is due Spring 2026, via Cherry Red Records’ progressive imprint Esoteric Recordings. The album will be supported by an extensive live tour, kicking off with an exclusive launch show at the legendary Cavern Club in Liverpool on 8th April 2026.
Blending the spirit of ’70s rock with modern theatrical flair, Franck Carducci has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most compelling live performers. His music draws on the evocative worlds of Pink Floyd, Supertramp, Led Zeppelin and Genesis, pairing powerful, high-energy compositions with atmospheric, dreamlike moments. His stage show – described as “a surrealistic rock circus” by Prog Magazine – has earned rave reviews from across the rock press.
Since 2010, Carducci has released six albums (four studio and two live) and performed over 500 concerts across Europe, including 15 UK tours and major showcases at Shepherd’s Bush Empire, the Cavern Club, and Germany’s Loreley Amphitheater. In 2022 he opened for Sting, who praised him as “a very tough act to follow,” and he has enjoyed longstanding support from Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett, who contributed to his second album and hailed his work as “imaginative, varied and strong.”
Carducci’s achievements also include winning the Classic Rock Society’s Best Overseas Band award, over 50,000 annual Spotify streams, and a growing online following of more than 26,000 fans.
Esoteric Recordings was established in 2007 and serves as Cherry Red’s home for progressive, psychedelic and classic rock. Renowned for its archival work, Esoteric specialises in elegantly packaged reissues and inspiring new works from artists with a rich musical heritage.
Cherry Red Records, founded in 1978, remains one of the UK’s most prolific and enduring independent labels. With a catalogue spanning frontline releases and deep archival projects across rock, punk, soul, jazz and beyond, the label representing a diverse roster.
The partnership with Franck Carducci marks an exciting new chapter as he prepares to unveil Sheeple – an album set to expand his ambitious musical universe – and bring his celebrated, flamboyant live show back to the UK and Europe in 2026.
