She’s releasing her ninth studio albumVictoria and Geri won't be attending the wedding

(Image: Getty Images)

A former Spice Girl is playing two intimate gigs in Bristol next week. Melanie C, or Sporty Spice as many may have referred to her in the 90s, is appearing at Bristol’s Rough Trade on Tuesday, April 28.

The Bristol venue is the only on the line-up to boast not one but two shows on the same day. It comes ahead of the release of the singer’s ninth studio album, ‘Sweat’, which is due to be released on May 1 and ahead of not only a 16-date schedule of intimate performances and signings in the UK, but also a 25-date album tour across the world.

Mel C, whose full name is Melanie Chisholm, is returning to her roots with her latest release, with an album that is described as being ‘euphoric, high-energy and capturing the freedom, unity and escapism of the dancefloor’. When she was 18 years old, Melanie is said to have immersed herself in the rave scene of early 90s Spain and, recorded between London, Stockholm and Los Angeles, ‘Sweat’ is dubbed both a return to her earliest influences and a “reflection of where she is now, an artist unafraid to push forward while honouring her past.

Alongside its club-ready highs, the album also carries emotional depth, exploring resilience, heartbreak and renewal, reinforcing Melanie’s reputation for pairing honesty with uplift.

Mel C of the Spice Girls is playing two intimate gigs in Bristol next week (April 28)

Mel C of the Spice Girls is playing two intimate gigs in Bristol next week (April 28)(Image: Charles Dennington)

“Led by the electrifying title track ‘Sweat’, an irresistible electro-house cut sampling Diana Ross, the album is a celebration of movement, joy and community. New single ‘Attitude’ builds on that momentum, bold, playful and empowering, it’s a confident anthem about stepping fully into your power and embracing self-belief.

“Together, the tracks showcase a vibrant new era for Melanie C, blending her chart-dominating pop sensibilities with her evolution as a globally respected DJ.”

The album release will be celebrated with a series of UK in-store signings across Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Glasgow, Birmingham and Brighton, offering fans an intimate chance to meet Melanie and experience the new era up close.

Tickets are available via the official Melanie C website, here.