Sounds of Swami

Sounds of Swami

Sounds of Swami are a progressive / post-hardcore influenced punk rock band currently active in the UK underground punk scene. They formed in late 2005 in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England. The band is well known for their eclectic mix of punk, DC post-hardcore, and progressive rock as well as their aggressive stage presence. The bands songs deal with a variety of subjects, notably promotion of anti-racism, anti-commercialism, left-wing politics and D.I.Y sensibilities. Lyrics often detail first-hand experiences.

Biography

Sounds of Swami formed in September 2005 and had their first band practice above their local music bar. Within five weeks, the band had eight original songs and played their first gig in December. The gig was held at the same venue the songs were written in; they simply moved their equipment 6 feet from the dance floor to the stage.

The band's debut EP Vent (2008) was very well received on the underground punk circuit, with many publications commending its alternative and progressive approach to punk. Reoccurring band comparisons include Fugazi, At The Drive-In, Hot Snakes and Propaghandi. The band's second EP Halcyon Days was released in conjunction with Manchester record label TNSrecords and generated even more positive reviews. Many commented highly on the EP's raw, retro production and songcraft. Their songs have been included on several international punk compilations. Whilst still finding their feet in terms of sound, two demos were recorded: Demo One and Demo Two in 2006 and 2007 respectively. The majority of these songs were rerecorded for the two officially released EPs and the upcoming debut album.

The band is currently recording their debut album set for release in 2010. The album will include brand new songs as well as older songs from as far back as 2006. Onstage in May 2010, the band confirmed the album title is Flee the Flock; a line taken from album track 'Sheep'. Recording began in late 2009 at a time where the band were so poor that after 8 hours recording per day, they had to travel from Manchester to Leeds to work the night shift at a rug warehouse company to pay for the sessions. After a long break due to commitments outside of music, the band are returning to the studio in early November to finish the album ready for an early 2011 release.

In October 2010, drummer and founding member Matthew Wade left the band to move to Brighton. He played his last show with the band at the 1in12 club in Bradford. He was replaced by Joe Dimuantes formally of Random Hand. The band is slated to write and record new material for a split ep with Mega Games from Southampton in early 2011.

Members

• Robert Gilbert - Vocals, Bass
• Luke Yates - Vocals, Guitar
• Kurt Wood - Vocals, Guitar
• Joe Dimuantes - Drums

Former Members

• Matthew Wade - Drums (2005 - 2010)

Discography

Albums

• Flee the Flock (2011)

Singles

• All Work And No Play Makes Jack A Dull Boy (2011)

EPs

• Split EP with Mega Games (2011)
• Halcyon Days (2009)
• Vent (2008)

Demos

• Demo Two (self-released, 2007)
• Demo One (self-released, 2006)

Drawing Board Records

In 2008, the band launched their own record label Drawing Board Records to release their debut Vent EP (dbr001). They chose not to pursue a recording contract elsewhere in order to keep complete control over their early releases until they solidified their overall sound. Their second EP Halcyon Days was also released on the label (dbr002) in conjunction with Manchester record label TNSrecords. Whilst Sounds of Swami are currently the only band on the Drawing Board Records, releasing the work of other bands/artists is a solid goal for the band.

Foxes Faux

Three members of Sounds of Swami play in all-acoustic outfit Foxes Faux. In contrast to aggressive rock music, the band play a melodic blend of folk, country and gypsy influenced music. However, progressive and rock overtones can be heard in some songs. The band often choose busking or PA-less venues over traditional gigs.