Gary Numan's Metal Rhythm Tour took place in September and October 1988 in support of his album Metal Rhythm, released on 26 September 1988 through I.R.S. Records. The album marked a change in musical direction, combining his established electronic sound with stronger rock, funk and industrial influences.
The 18-venue itinerary travelled through England, Wales and Scotland, covering approximately 1,811 miles. Venues included Exeter Plaza, Newport Centre, Bristol Colston Hall, Guildford Civic Hall, London Dominion Theatre, Manchester Apollo, Sheffield City Hall, Glasgow Barrowland and Newcastle City Hall. The tour concluded with three nights at London's Astoria Theatre from 10 to 12 October 1988.
The schedule underwent some changes, with the planned Peterborough date moved to Exeter and Carlisle reportedly cancelled because of low ticket sales. The tour introduced the Metal Rhythm era to live audiences while retaining material from Numan's earlier catalogue.
