News & Reviews
March 2010
Our six most recent recordings are now available to download for $0.85c each at Fifty100.com!
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Friday 18th December 2009
Last recordings with previous line-up now streaming at http://www.myspace.com/sunfliesband
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Wednesday 9th September 2009
New live review by Sasha Garwood - The Horn, St. Albans - 21st August 2009
"Sunflies have got rockier since last time I saw them. Stripped down almost to the classic power trio, they are a more driven, focused group, and what they perhaps lose in poignancy they make up in power. Like that other melody-led power trio, Placebo, they’ve always given good intro, and their headlining Friday night gig at home venue The Horn in St Albans is no exception. Opening number ‘Shaped like a Gun’ is introduced by an arrow-shaped wall of guitars that reflect the implicit threat of the title. The palpable energy built up onstage gives a sustained dynamism that is carried through into the next track, ‘Vampires’. Here, there are echoes of Joy Division in the song’s sudden and powerful start: Vampires doesn’t pull its punches. The intense rise and fall of its melody, sweeping the audience along almost by accident, is delivered at a breathless pace highlighted by singer James’ half ironic pause ‘to catch his breath’. In their intent focus, each evidently giving it their all (special mention here to Matty and bass jumping on the amps at the front; no idea what he was doing but it looked cool) as the band effectively recreate the obsessive and draining desire of the song’s lyrical message. Whilst the absence of the eerie harmonies woven by former singer Joanna perhaps deemphasised its sinister undertones, as the presence of a second piercing female voice drew attention to the implied questioning of the pursued/pursuer power dynamic, again the simplicity of a single vocal rendered it different but no less powerful. More menacing, perhaps.
Another aspect of Sunflies’ new incarnation is the emphasis placed on single elements of their music. With a less complex sound, the Smiths-esque way in which the guitar melody often functions as a second vocal is highlighted, and as the band launch into their third number, ‘Head’, this is well in evidence. The song pushes out to an audience who may not manage dancing are enthusiastically nodding, bouncing, tapping and drink waving instead. (The lack of dancing at Sunflies gigs is among the less explicable of many minor regrets in my life. Perhaps some sort of guerilla, uh, movement is in order?) Track four, ‘Hungware’, was new, to me at least, but displayed customary energy and pace. Harsher, perhaps, but nevertheless effective, and displaying typical lyrical sophistication. From there, the band slide seamlessly into ‘Caroline Slipped Across the Sky’ – always a popular track and with good reason. The streamlined rise and fall of its chorus, even without the echoes of another voice, offers a controlled release of the tension and implicit defiance of verse and lyrics, and at the song’s climax its final challenge – ‘Get it while you can...’ hangs over a carefully constructed tapestry of sound before fading away.
Next up was ‘Trust Games’, followed by the unsettling ‘Stranger’. One of the joys of Sunflies is their visceral evocation of often complex emotions. Sure, one aspect of their appeal is their sheer energy, and it’s quite possible to appreciate them by letting the rippling guitar riffs slide in at the ears and out at the hips without pause for thought, but in doing so one would definitely be missing a trick. Like the Cure, clearly an influence in terms of emotional intensity if nothing else, Sunflies offer imagery and insight that isn’t always comfortable but is unfailingly thought-provoking, and these songs were a good example. Perhaps overcome by enthusiasm, however, vocalist James evidently misremembered the running order, and dedicated the somewhat angst-ridden Stranger to his wife by mistake, somewhat to the amusement of the rest of the band (and, in fact, the lady in question.)
‘Forever’, the next song, went out to her instead. It’s always a standout track, pressing all the ballad buttons (she says, in the tones of one who was waving a mock lighter throughout), whilst referencing Harold Pinter, which is a pretty good working definition of Real Art. The echoing sadness of ‘i don’t wanna live forever’, however, was followed by an abrupt and unexpected change of pace as Matty exchanged his bass for a keyboard and the robotic, dancy backing of another new song, ‘Strange’ pumped out. This one’s been in my head ever since, which has to be a good sign; the ironic tension between repetitive backing and swooping vocals are an addictive and thought-provoking combination, and provided a satisfying climax to a very good gig. As a band, Sunflies have changed with their new lineup; there’s a more aggressive tension, and whilst the piercing sadness lent by a second vocalist is absent, it’s replaced by a directness and drive that this gig showcased with considerable verve."
Sasha Garwood has been a journalist and reviewer for ten years. Her first proper assignment was an interview with Neil Gaiman. She currently writes for the TLS, the Marylebone Journal and various academic publications, and edits the books section of the Marylebone Journal.
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Sunday 23rd November 2008
More 'Coping Strategies' reviews...
From CD Times:
"I like Sunflies a lot, they just seem like such a perky bunch despite their dark lyrics. Their 3 song EP Coping Strategies showcases more variation than most bands achieve in a full length album. They seem just as comfortable with a fast, catchy song like Sticks And Stones as they are with the Placebo-esque High Times, and that can only mean great things for the future of the band... they certainly win my Lyric Of The Week award with “Sticks and stones may break my bones/But the words will surely kill me”."
Whilst ReadyToRock.com said:
"3 Tracks that mix indie with rock'n'roll in a very catchy manner, with touches of Arcade Fire and Placebo. 'Sticks And Stones' you can imagine on Radio 1 in the evenings. 'High Times' starts off progressive indie and heads slightly ambient, but the burst of marching band drums works well... 'Too Late For Hate' is more of an indie rock thrash out."
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Monday 10th November 2008
Yet another great review for 'Coping Strategies'
This time from Loud Horizon Music:
SUNFLIES: 'Coping Strategies.'
Written by Colin Jackson
Nov 10, 2008 at 11:37 AM
SUNFLIES are a Hertfordshire-based four-piece for whom, on the evidence of this three track EP, greatness awaits. (OK - if not 'greatness,' then at least critical acclaim and frequent gig offers!)
Convention normally dictates that the strongest song on an EP is placed at track-listing number one. This must have created a bit of a predicament for SUNFLIES. 'Sticks and Stones,' with its prominent, distorted bass and Joanna's vibrant harmonies complimenting the strong, aggressive yet melodic vocals from James, is not out of place with this positioning. However, for me it is the final track, 'Too Late For Hate,' that is the strongest. Opening with a short blast of guitar solo, it is fast and frantic, is delivered at punk-pace, and incorporates the occasional 'hardcore' scream whilst again featuring prominent bass lines. Great stuff - this certainly warrants attention from any self-respecting alternative / indie radio shows out here.
Sandwiched between these two tracks is the more down-tempo 'High Times.' Of course, 'down tempo,' does not necessarily equate to 'downbeat,' and this has one of those slower hooks that bury deep into your subconscious. Joanna's harmonies are more haunting in nature and between the bass line and the vocals this sounds like perhaps Pretty Girls Make Graves and Howling Bells got very drunk at a party, swapped instruments and just jammed!
SUNFLIES are definitely a band to look out for in your local gig listings.
(9/10)
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Friday 7th November 2008
'Coping Strategies' feedback from Daily Collegian
Wednesday 5th November 2008
Airplay and reviews
Subba Cultcha have reviewed 'Sticks and Stones' (recently Lemonrock's Record of the Week and the opening track from 'Coping Strategies'):
"Indie-disco floor filler with some mightily impressive interplay, those synths, skipping hi hat beats, hi octane vocals and some mighty fine discordant riffing to boot – something to keep an ear on?"
LCR1350AM, Loughborough Student Radio, have playlisted two tracks from 'Coping Strategies'. Of the tracks, they said:
"There's a lot of energy in this band and you can't help but like them. Sticks and Stones is very catchy and sticks in your head, while High Times builds wonderfully throughout the song."
Meanwhile, 'Coping Strategies' has also been reviewd by Waterfront Online:
"Four piece Sunflies release their second EP, ‘Coping Strategies’ and after a member reshuffle, they seem to have found their feet.
On first listening, it’s easy to wonder why they feel the need to sound so melancholic, especially with ‘High Times’. However after closer consideration you realise just how haunting the subject matter of their material is, and why their tracks adopt such a moody tone.
It’s refreshing to hear a group play in such a gritty style without sounding self indulgent.
‘Too Late for Hate’ adopts a Cobain inspired grungey feel without sounding pretentious, and hats off to making a song about abusive relationships (opener ‘Sticks and Stones’) infectious and weirdly danceable.
A brutally raw, honest and edgy EP, Sunflies make no excuse for discussing the uglier and more harrowing subjects most bands just don’t have the guts to. And they do it well."
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Saturday 18th October 2008
'Coping Strategies' is reviewed by The 405:
"Picture the scene. I get home late Friday night, tired, hungry and relieved that the weekend is rolling just round the corner. At my feet, lays a large brown envelope addressed to The 405. I pick it up, lethargically. After opening the envelope, with a kitchen knife, trying carefully not to skewer the contents inside, I dive straight to the bottom, pulling out a plastic case. I blink. I rub my eyes a little. Am i hallucinating? Were my pupils dilating? My tongue felt a little numb,but maybe that was just what I’d eaten for lunch?! Staring back at me through the shiny plastic wrapper was a psychedelic collage of brightly colored pills, all shapes and sizes, with a Polaroid of a pill bottle slap bang in the center with instructions for consumption 3 times a day. Needless to say i consulted my Doctor, who immediately reassured me that there was no need to worry, i was simply experiencing a mild symptom of Coping Strategies, the new EP from Sunflies.
The Hertfordshire collective kicks off their 3 song EP to a great start with opening track Sticks and Stones, showing off their home grown talent and lyrical abilities. In my opinion, the opening seconds of any album are crucial in keeping listeners captivated enough for them to want to hear more and I really think Sunflies have taken a note of that! Sticks and Stones is a great little upbeat and funky track that acts as the perfect single release. Track Number 2, High Times is the “slower” track on the EP; which i found as a nice change of pace; I’m a sucker for songs such as this and thought that it was beautifully executed. High Times is very reminiscent to that of We Are Scientists, both in terms of musical style as well as front man James Scott’s echoing vocals. It is clear that Sunflies have a wide range of musical influences in their work, merging lots of genres together in the process, creating one sound that can only be defined as their own! My favorite song however has to be the closing track entitled Too Late For Hate. It may very well be the last track, but there is a clear sense here that Sunflies aren’t leaving your stereo without going down with a arm lashing, leg thrashing, nose bludgeoned fight! With it’s howling vocals,shredding guitars,relentless smashing of drum skins Too Late For Hate produces this very My Chemical Romance emulative rhythm; which seems to bully your ear drums into submission, delivering a musically charged finale to their latest EP, like a bullet to the brain!
I really enjoyed listening to this EP, with there being times where i couldn’t stop listening! I can’t wait to hear more!
4/5
For Those Who Like - Edwyn Collins, My Chemical Romance, We Are Scientists, Fall Out Boy, Muse, QOTSA
- A"
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Wednesday 15th October 2008
'Sticks and Stones', the opening track on 'Coping Strategies' has been awarded the status of 'MP3 of the Week' at Lemonrock.com along with the following review:
"A refreshing sound, crisper than a newly minted Chardonnay, and twice as citrusy. Wailing guitars, urgent drumming, ethereal backing vocals, a frantic message, all wrapped up in a delicious bite-size (i.e. not too long) recording that's clear but not clinical. Inventive and engaging, this original sound stands out a mile."
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Monday 6th October 2008
'Coping Strategies' received it's first review today, from "Toxic Pete":
"Just three great, rip-snortin' tracks here from the mighty Sunflies; showing just how well they can rock it up, Sunflies blast through 'Sticks And Stones', 'High Times' and 'Too Late For Hate' - a pretty mixed bunch but somehow awesomely compelling!
Yes, just three concise but impressive rockin' tracks that show Sunflies ability to mix rockin' light with rollin' shade whilst always retaining their trademark energetic and ballsy onslaught. Distinctive, smart and sharp, 'Coping Strategies' is a full-on assault of punchy bass, howlin' guitars and delicately thumped drums. Tasty lead vocals are backed by, at times scary sounding, female voices that add dynamic depth and mournful intrigue to the massive mix. The songs are strong and somewhat diverse; from powerful and full-on ('Sticks And Stones') to somewhat eerie and dark ('High Times'), they allow the listener to sample what Sunflies are all about - high energy pop rock with intelligent content and well crafted, thoughtfully layered instrumentation. Sunflies only sound like ...Sunflies actually; their heady and robust music is one of a kind and all the better for its distinct and innovative composition and fiery delivery.
'Coping Strategies' is best played with as many db's as you can take - just turn it up until the wax in yer ears starts to melt and then just let it loose!! 'Coping Strategies' by Sunflies is probably just a little left of being totally commercial - the more adventurous 'players' will love what Sunflies are offering but the less flexible, cast in concrete, rock-heads might just find it a bit to much for their mirror as Sunflies don't really do convention or normal in the true sense!
'Coping Strategies' by the powerful and exciting Sunflies is a real gritty grower - it comes to you quite slowly but by the time you realise it's got you, it's too late, the hooks are in and Sunflies just reel you in and pound the shit out of you! Raunchy rockin' stuff this from Sunflies; 'Coping Strategies' takes risks but, for me, it's a winning formula and comes out smelling of sweet roses - a crackin' EP that showcases Sunflies rock ethos extremely well - I look forward to seeing how well Sunflies do with this excellent three tracker!"
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Monday 29th September 2008
'Sticks and Stones' was playlisted on BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Services) today and we're in talk with th station about doing a live session in February!
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Sunday 15th June 2008
We've set up a blog to make it easier for you to get in touch with us and provide feedback and comments on shows etc. Well, you might need a Google acount but... ANYWAY...
The first and only post right now is regarding last night's headline slot at Winkyfest at The Paddington in Bedford, in aid of the British Heart Foundation: http://worldofsunflies.blogspot.com/
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Wednesday 11th June 2008
Another great review for The Indigo Sampler, this time from losingtoday.com:
"Apparently this Hertfordshire based lot have been garnering themselves an enviable reputation for their live sets in recent times, their core nucleus James and Joanna have in that time survived numerous line up changes and career derailing, now with bassist Matty and drummer Chris safely ensconced onboard they’ve been busy honing their sound to a frighteningly precise detail.
Reminiscent in the main to Leeds combo the Somatics who as you all should know feature the multi talented ex Ultrasound man Richard Green, this stunning three track offering is knee deep in a melding of skinny tied strut happy shade wearing riffola powered by a melting pop potion that has the generic palette blended sublimely to draw upon the subtle but clearly identifiable elements of a grit laced 60’s edge, the fusing of post punk angular dialects of late 70’s and drilled with an acutely vice like macabre melodic thrust more apparent to the re-energised March Violets - the results of this are all stirred into visceral entourage of volcanic sub three minute pop juggernauts that buckle beneath a punishing pop powerhouse best exemplified on the breaking ranks parting shot that is the anxiety riddled ‘no charge without pain’ as it adopts its wiring, unhinged and unravelling persona with the palpable innate tension literally oozing from its grooves.
Elsewhere ’Caroline slipped across the sky’ with its flanking of potently jarring riffs and the crystalline corteges of sky piercing sonic soars possesses an identifiable 80’s goth / 4AD yet nothing quite shines with such intensity as the lead out cut ’Vampires’. This panic stricken beauty initially opens to a superb Ruts ’Babylon’s Burning’ styled intro before finding itself lushly pepper corned by some seriously snazzy 50’s sourced sci-fi twang twists riddled by the onset of urgently paced recoiling grinds that find themselves blessed throughout by a vocal very much blood-lined from Hazel O’Connor. Ones to watch fore suspect."
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Thursday 5th June 2008
[James] OK, I'm finding it really hard to keep up with all of the activity, specifically reporting back on it all, but key things are:
We did Luton Carnival and two tracks ('This Crime' and 'Stranger') were featured in the highlights coverage along with interviews.
Since then I've been asked to take part in the Ernie Almond show on BBC Three Counties this Sunday, 8th June, live from 12pm until 2pm.
In the meantime, The Indigo Sampler contnues to receive positive reviews, most recently from Tasty:
"Don't be misled by the (c) 2006 label on the back of the CD cover - like a butterfly from a caterpillar, Sunflies seem to have gone into cold storage and emerged like a beautiful, if dark indie pop band. There are elements of Placebo and the shoe-gazy female backing vocals are a bit Siouxsie Sioux but the songs are a selection of crisp 3 minute crackers. Scaramanga Six meets The Half Rabbits."
Read in-situ here: http://www.tastyfanzine.org.uk/singles74may.htm#Sunflies%20-%20The%20Indigo%20Sampler
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Tuesday 27th May 2008
Sonic Dice gave 'The Indigo Sampler' the following review:
"The Hertfordshire-based band, Sunflies, have come a long way to get to where they are now. In fact in a period of eighteen months they had 17 different bassists, 8 lead guitarists, and an incredible 36 drummers. So it’s safe to say they’ve been through a lot and no doubt become stronger people for it. It’s also meant that eventually they have found “their sound” and now they look set to unleash it on the UK over the following months.
The opening track of this, their ‘Indigo Sampler’ demo, is ‘Vampires’ which kicks in with a fast-paced drumbeat that is accompanied with a floating guitar and strong bass playing. Vocalist and guitarist James Scott cuts in with his delectable voice that suits the music perfectly. As the chorus begins we are introduced to Joanna Scott whose dainty, but cutting, voice is used under James’ to strong effect. It’s a powerful opening track that gives the impression of a band that is in its element and has finally found a set up that works for them.
‘Caroline Slipped Across The Sky’ takes up where ‘Vampires’ left off. What’s impressive about Sunflies’ sound is how compact and accomplished it is. Each element seems to perfectly compliment the other and, combined with the impressive songwriting skills of James, leaves you with a sound that is both artistically inspiring but also catchy as hell!
Final song is ‘No Change Without Pain’ demonstrates the versatility to Sunflies. This track is slower, and shows the band experimenting with numerous drum beats and vocal styles, and yet the sound still remains palatable enough not to scare the cool kids away. Make sure you go check the band out on the BBC Introducing Stage at this years Luton Carnival on Monday 26th May.
Other gigs you can cetch them at:
14 Jun - The Paddinton, Bedfordshire
24 Aug - Music In The Parks, St. Albans
For fans of: Garbage, The Doors, The Cure"
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Wednesday 21st May 2008
We are absolutely THRILLED to have been featured in a piece on BBC Radio 1 in Huw Stephens New Music show this evening. In a segment focusing on the Bedfordshire music scene, and in particular, the bands playing on the 'BBC Introducing...' stage at Luton Carnival this Bank Holiday Monday, there were snippets from an interview with James underpinned with one of our signature tunes - 'Vampires' - taken from our recently re-released collection 'The Indigo Sampler'.
Wednesday 14th May 2008
We're on the CRMK playlist and we just stumbled across an article in The Comet.
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Friday 2nd May 2008
Subba Cultcha reviewed Vampires: "An impressive mixing of Joy Divisions darkened rawness and Echo & The Bunnymen’s neo-gothism…" www.subba-cultcha.com
We've had a bit more newspaper coverage, which will be posted or linked to from here soon!
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Thursday 1st May 2008
Another great review, this time 9/10 from Rhythm and Booze. Read the Rhythm and Booze review...
We've also been featured in this week's Herts Advertiser. Read the Herts Ad article...
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Monday 28th April 2008
Room Thirteen has reviewed The Indigo Sampler and awarded it a mark of 10/13. Read the review...
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Wednesday 16th April 2008
Radio play!
'Vampires' will be featured on the Phil Orange Show on rivergibbsfm.com on Sat 19th April and Mon 21st April 2008.
UPDATE 25/04/08: Phil will also be spinning 'Caroline Slipped Across The Sky' during his show on Saturday 26th April, repeated Monday 28th.
UPDATE 30/04/08: Seems like they like us... 'No Change Without Pain' will be featured in the playlist in the Phil Orange show on Saturday 3rd May, repeated Monday 5th May.
Go to http://www.rivergibbsfm.com or http://www.myspace.com/rivergibbsfm for further information.
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Wednesday 9th April 2008
Our press and radio campaign has begun and we have received our first review:
Sunflies are certainly a cross-over outfit; they don't want and certainly don't need to be pigeonholed. Suffice to say that Sunflies rock big style! But, Sunflies aren't just a rock outfit, oh no. Sunflies are anything you want them to be - anything! Their sound is full, rounded and polished. They play with supreme confidence and conviction. Their songs are innovative, edgy and damn commercial. But, their commerciality isn't just for the 'now' - Sunflies could play this kinda stuff in just about any musical age and it would sound bloody good. Let's face it, these are brilliant 'chunes' played with massive infectious energy - great songs, stunning musicianship, crackin' vocals and an overall feeling of solidarity and focus.
Three brilliant tracks here, 'Vampires', 'Caroline Slipped Across The Sky' and 'No Change Without Pain' - one excellent EP that demonstrates strength in depth from writing through to final production; Sunflies have it all stitched up like that well known German virgin, Neisentite - tight as a big thing in a very small space - and that's tight! But seriously, this is special - Sunflies show massive potential here; this is a serious EP from a stunning sounding band - this is solid through and through - a band to watch out for methinks!
'The Indigo Sampler' EP by Sunflies is quite exceptional - it's as punchy as hell - it's so kick-ass I can't sit still - it's massively impressive - can't wait to hear a full blown album from this lot!!
Peter J Brown aka toxic pete (www.toxicpete.co.uk)
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Thursday 27th March 2008
Not quite such a big gap since the last update!
Thought you might like to know that the pre-mastered Coping Strategies EP tracks are available for you to listen to at our MySpace page (link opens in new window), and we've booked EVEN more live dates including a set on the 'BBC Introducing...' Stage at this year's Luton Carnival!
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Friday 25th January 2008
Well, it's about time this section of the site was updated. What does 2008 hold for Sunflies?
We've spent the first month of the year writing new material.
We're releasing our first official single in May, and our second in September/October, which means we'll be making some videos and doing all the sorts of things that bands do.
We also want to give this website a spruce up. Most frustrating of all is that we can't update the Songs section ourselves, which means it's really out of date (notice how I didn't even hyperlink to it?!), and we don't have a dedicated Press/Reviews section (we tend to stuff all of the feedback we get into the "past gigs" area on the Live page), so for now, here's a paste of all the reviews we've had over the past coupla years...
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"If Arcade Fire had a scuffle with Placebo, they'd form the hybrid that is Sunflies. The dark indie-rock band purvey a crunchy crescendo of vocal tenderness, with crashing guitars and subtle harmonies." Kate O'Flaherty, NME, 24th February 2007
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20th February 2007 - The Hat Factory, Luton
"...[Middle act] 'Toy Drum' come perilously close to playing a couple of happy songs. Bad idea. The good stuff's always in the dark corners.
Not that you'd have to tell Sunflies that small essential truth.
If Toy Drum are more evolved (than [opening act] The Suspects), then Sunflies are the eight legged, four headed finished article.
They've been working hard this past year, despite line-up changes, and it shows. New drummer Chris Marks is a real find. He looks a bit insane when he plays, sets his cymbals up some crazy distance from his stool and if you were seeing the band for the first time, as I was, you'd think he was a founding member, as he doesn't miss a beat all night.
Basically Sunflies were a class above the rest tonight and their performance reminded me of the first time I saw a signed act. They had that solid, polished sound you can only get from some serious hard work.
Musically they're pretty dark, but they could make nursery rhymes sound ominous if they played them with the sort of muscular intent they displayed tonight. Singer James Scott goes after the vocals with an intense fury and co-vocalist Joanna Scott feeds off his energy, prowling and whirling around the stage, looking cool and a little scary at the same time.
Matty doesn't do any whirling, but he's got a massive 5 string bass round his neck, which he plays with nonchalant style. They play a tight set, each song distinct from the other and never let the standards drop, a point rammed home by the stunning way the set was ended.
You had to be there.
And if you weren't, my advice would be to quit your job and spend the rest of your life watching bands."
Spike - VBAH Fanzine
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CD Review: Sunflies - The Indigo Sampler
"The Hertfordshire-based four-piece consisting of lead vocals and guitarist James Scott, Joanna Scott on additional vocals, bassist Matt Long and newest member, drummer Chris Marks (who replaced Alex Walker after the E.P. was finished) are one of the most polished bands on the local live scene and it shows with a short but perfectly formed CD.
Influenced by the likes of The Cure, Nirvana, Muse and PJ Harvey there should be little light and shade in the delivery of their tracks, as they explore the darkness of the soul - but if you're expecting eardrums to be battered and broken with a torrent of indie-rock prepare for a surprise.
Amidst their angst-ridden, well-written melodic three tracks - Vampires, Caroline Slipped Across The Sky, No Change Without Pain - is a deftness of touch in blending James' commanding lead vocals and Joanna's haunting vocals in support, which together capture an intense, raw, tortured but sometimes tender tone and mood."
John Wailes, Luton@Large, May 2007
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Music Journalist Bobbie Killip (The Sticks, Manilla, On-The-Rocks) has gone on record as saying: "A refreshing leap into a deep, sometimes dark pool, Sunflies is the beauty of a man, staring at the heavens, with his feet planted firmly on the ground."
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15th August 2006 - The Hat Factory, Luton
"Since the last time I saw Sunflies, they have lost a bass player and a guitarist but have gained a new bass player in Matty Greenbank... From their last performance I was definitely a fan of the dark and slightly gothic rock that the Sunflies play and the new lineup definitely live up to my previous impressions. The songs are tight, the vocals are sharp and they play with an energy that the impressed crowd soaks up with glee. I would definitely like to nick a few of their bass lines but I doubt I'd be able to play them let alone get away with it... All in all a thoroughly enjoyable evening. PDM Paul announced that this was the biggest crowd he's had for a 3 band show on a Tuesday night."
Kieron -VBAH Fanzine
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2nd March 2006 - The Well, Luton
"[Sunflies is] a local band quickly building a name for themselves. They're definitely the most original band of the night, providing an atmospheric and moody blend of modern indie and 80s goth synth, a pleasant concoction which forms something in the region of New Order, or The Cure. Combine that with some punk energy and a few mellow numbers, and the result is a band that is both creative and good to hear. What impressed me most was their ability to do all these different things so well; the fast, energetic tunes were played with precision and intensity, while the slow songs were played with passion and emotion, and all the while the band kept their energy and displayed their talent. Although I do enjoy this kind of music, I haven't seen many local bands who play it, especially not this well. I'll be checking them out in future."
Tim B - VBAH Website
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21/02/07 - Sunflies Featured in NME!
Sunflies are featured on page 63 of this week's NME (out today but the edition is dated 24th Feb). Comparing us to Arcade Fire (who the NME consistently refer to at "The World's Greatest Band") and Placebo, the article is very flattering and is accompanied by a photo from our set at the Breeze Festival in Leeds last September, supporting The View. A full transcript will be posted here soon.
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07/02/07 - The Indigo Sampler has arrived!!!
Our long-awaited and highly anticipated new CD - The Indigo Sampler - is now on sale. Simply visit our MySpace page, scroll down a bit until you see the BUY NOW button on the right hand side, click it, do the necessary and you'll be the proud owner of three lovingly crafted tunes, packaged in a full size jewel case with 4 page booklet and all that jazz. Well, not so much jazz, more gothic-y indie-y rock stuff.
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27/01/07 - Just saying hello!
I thought it was about time we updated this page... Though all I can tell you is that life is good in Sunflies-land... Our new drummer is settling in very nicely, we've been booked to play a whole bunch of headline shows locally and in and around London, our new CD will be released imminently and we're going to get back into the studio and get two or three more tracks nailed as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, here's a picture of my friend Darth, who popped over for a (very noisy) slurp of tea at Christmas. He hates having his picture taken.
"TWO sugars please!"
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15/11/06 - New Recordings Unveiled Tonight!
Tonight at our gig at Tommy Flynn's in Camden, we're putting out a limited edition CD featuring three new recordings. The sleeve design is minimalist, so here are the details/credits:
Vampires - Words: James Scott. Music: James Scott, Joanna Scott, Matt Long, Alex Walker. Performed by: James Scott (Guitar and Vocals), Matt Long (Bass), Alex Walker (Drums), Joanna Scott (Vocals). Recorded at Resident Studios, engineered by Paul Fletcher. Mixed at Alma Road Studios by Pete Bilk and James Scott.
Caroline Slipped Across The Sky - Words: James Scott. Music: James Scott, Alex Walker, Joanna Scott, Matt Long. Performed by: James Scott (Guitar and Vocals), Alex Walker (Drums), Joanna Scott (Vocals), Matt Long (Bass). Recorded and mixed at Resident Studios by Paul Fletcher and Sunflies.
No Change Without Pain - Words: James Scott. Music: James Scott, Alex Walker, Pete Bilk, Joanna Scott. Performed by: James Scott (Guitar and Vocals), Alex Walker (Drums), Pete Bilk (Bass), Joanna Scott (Vocals). Recorded at Alma Road Studios, engineered by Pete Bilk and Rob Phillips. Mixed at Alma Road Studios by Rob Phillips and James Scott.
The compilation was mastered at Alma Road Studios by Pete Bilk and James Scott.
Non-Executive Producer: Jane Cheel.
A new version of Forever was also recorded at Resident Studios and will be mixed soon!
08/11/06 - Turbo Sunflies!
We can't believe how long it's been since we updated this page! This is largely due to the fact that we've been so busy recording and mixing new tracks for you, some of which will be mastered this weekend and unleashed at our Tommy Flynn's gig in Camden next Wednesday. Be there to claim your copy of what promises to be a very rare compilation.
Meanwhile, we've finally got round to putting a few of the shots from our photo shoot with Mark Cremona up around the site. More will be added regularly. Hope you like!
03/09/06 - We Love Leeds!
An enormous thank you to everyone was involved in the Breeze event at Millennium Square yesterday. Organisers, crew, bands and fans alike ignored the heavy rain to make it a really special day; we had an absolute blast.
For set list and feedback, visit the live section of this website. For photo's, visit the Images section.
18/08/06 - Millennium Square Gig Confirmed for 2nd September
Sunflies will be playing at Millennium Square in Leeds on Saturday 2nd September, supporting The View (currently at number 15 in the singles charts with 'Wasted Little DJ's'). Staged by NorthernTraX, and with a crowd of 7,000 people set to attend, it is the biggest music event in the history of Breeze - a Leeds City Council youth culture initiative. Click here to visit our Live section for more information! Click here for the Breeze website.
16/08/06 - Whoa!
We really enjoyed tonight's gig at The Hat Factory. Thank you SO much to everyone who showed up to see us (and for your wonderful feedback - which will be posted on the Live page soon). Massive respect to PDM for running a tight and friendly ship and for giving us the opportunity to play at this venue.
13/08/06 - Thanks!
An enormous thank you to everyone who came to show their support at Leonards last night. Your positive feedback means a hell of a lot to us and we're pleased that so many of you are planning to come and see us again on Tuesday (15th August) at The Hat Factory.
15/07/06 - Good to be back... with a vengeance!
Just thought I'd update this page to make public our thanks to everyone who attended or was involved in Thursday night's gig at Clockwork (Islington, 13th July). Great venue, brilliant on-stage sound (thanks Gavin), friendly inspirational bands and a lovely crowd. As our first show with the new line-up, things bode well for Sunflies this year.
17/05/06 - NEW LEAD GUITARIST APPOINTED!
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Gavin Martin as our new lead guitarist. More details to follow soon, together with Gavin's Biog, which will be available here.
WE MADE IT!
Vampires made it into the final top ten of the NorthernTraX competition! A big thank you to everyone who voted for us.
Along with the other nine finalists, the track will feature on a CD to be given out at a number of summer holiday events held in cities in Northern England, all of which will also be forwarded to a the national MusicTraX 'Making it Big Time' competition in which the winning track will be selected by judges at EMI at the end of September 2006. Click here to view and listen to the top ten.
Marvellous!
VOTE FOR VAMPIRES!
Thanks to everyone who voted for us in back in November, seeing us make the top five for the first heat of the NorthernTraX competition. VOTING IS NOW OPEN FOR THE FINAL and closes 31st March 2006. Out of the 20 tracks that have made it through, only ten will be featured on an EMI Online distributed CD with the chance to re-record the track in pro studio.
13/02/06 - Thanks
It's been a gorgeous week for Sunflies. Tuesday's gig at The Pump House was a joyous experience. Thanks to everyone who came to see us play, and to ALL the staff for making it an unforgettable night. Though, if you check the Images section, you'll see that it was all somewhat of a blur!
Sunday night at The Exchange was also a storming occasion. Stylistically, Shine are one of the most fully-formed bands we've played with, so that was an honour. And Matt Rogue - what can I say - no-one will be forgetting those songs in a hurry! Rogue by name, rogue by nature! But we'd especially like to thank Chriss from VBAH for introducing us to PDM Promotions and we'd like to thank the crowd for being absolutely AMAZING and up for it! You rock!
More Live Dates Announced!
Click here to check the Live section.
24/01/06 - Hot Gossip!
Which band member almost burnt their school down today owing to a little problem holiding their Ethanol? Click here to find out who it was!
Thank You!
Thanks to everyone who came to support us at The Spice of Life last weekend (8th Jan 06). Special thanks to headliners Redmile for making life easy by sharing kit with us and generally being very nice guys indeed! Check out their well-honed grunge at www.redmile.uk.com. Opening act Michael Bailey is also a talent to be reckoned with... You need to hear it to believe it: www.myspace.com/michaelbailey.
Massive respect to Up All Night's soundman John for doing such a great job and for all his encouraging feedback (thankfully not the sort of feedback that howls through the PA!).
Anyway, we'll be back in London on 16th Feb at The Pleasure Unit in Bethnal Green. In the meantime you can catch us at The Pump House in Watford on 7th February and (TBC) The Exchange in Luton on 12th Feb. The Live section will be updated with all the details you need soon.
All the best,
James
Spice of Life Confirmed!
Sunflies are delighted to announce that they will be playing at The Spice of Life in the heart of London's West End on Sunday 8th January 2005. Click here for further details.
First London Dates Announced!
We are very proud to announce our first London shows. Subject to contract, Sunflies will be playing at The Spice of Life in Soho on Sunday 8th January 2006, and we have a confirmed slot at The Pleasure Unit in Bethnal Green on Thursday 16th February. Click here for further details.
All Safe - 11/12/05
Thanks to those of you who have written and called, concerned for the safety of the members of Sunflies living in the vicinity of the Buncefield fuel depot. Whilst James and Joanna can very clearly see the flames from their front garden, they are a safe distance away. Alex's house experienced some minor rearrangement, but no lasting damage. Everyone is safe and well.
Sunflies Voted into the NorthernTraX February Finals - 06/12/05
Of the ten tracks selected to be featured each month at www.northerntrax.net, Vampires by Sunflies was voted one of November's top five, which means that it will be entered into the final in February, giving the band the chance to spend some quality time together in a recording studio and have the fruit of their endeavours included on an EMI compilation. Superb!
Getting About - 05/12/05
Sunflies is one of the featured bands this month at www.newsofthenoise.com, and you can vote for Vampires at http://www.northerntrax.net/listen/index.htm to help us win much-needed recording time.
Both sites are featuring a number of great unsigned artists, so be sure to have a dig around while you're there!
Live Dates
Having had to pass up a few dates recently (for no other reason than diary clashes), we're delighted to announce that some dates for 2006 have been confirmed.
We will once again be taking the guest band slot at The Pump House in Watford on 7th February and we will be playing at The Exchange in Luton for the first time on 12th Feb.
We're in talks with a number of venues and promoters regarding other dates around the country. Keep an eye on the Live section of this website or sign up to our mailing list by e-mailing info@sunflies.co.uk to be kept up to date!
"Charidee Mate" - 16/10/05
James, David and Martin recorded a live acoustic version of 'Lately' for The Pump House Charity CD last night.
The recording, alongside the work of approximately 20 other acts, will be included on the third annual CD of its kind to raise money for the Pump House Fund.
More details as they emerge...
Shop's Open! - 14/10/05
Ooh... Goodies... Ooh... Click HERE for t-shirts, mugs, mousemats, skinnys and longsleeves bearing the classic Sunflies logo designed by Joanna Scott (www.joanna-scott.co.uk).
Happy Birthday Charlie-Boo! - 14/10/05
Thanks again! - ??/09/05
This week we had some new publicity shots done by Sarah Bowe. The conditions weren't great (rushed and in the dark), so we're especially pleased with the results.
Additionally, we received the pictures taken by Simon Then-Bergh at The Doctor's Tonic on 9th September and they have been added to the gallery and dotted around the site, so be sure to have a look around.
I've also created a rudimentary myspace page for the band (www.myspace.com/sunfliesband), where you can listen to three of the 8 songs that were recently remastered by Dave Rook (Vampires, Lately and Too Late For Hate). Dave's done an amazing job, and it's only a shame that converting to mp3 has knocked a little of the stuffing out again, but I'm sure you'll agree the quality is better than the WMA's we have on this site presently. We'll be doing something about that "soon"!
Thankful - 10/09/09
We had a great gig at The Doctor's Tonic last night. Yet again such a friendly atmosphere created by Dave, Mungo and the rest of the staff, and a really appreciative crowd. Thanks also to Sarah Bowe for getting some shots of us on stage, which are dotted around the site.
I'm particularly proud to announce that having had only two rehearsals, Alex Walker did a sterling job on the drums and we would like to take this opportunity wish him an official, but very warm welcome to the band.
It was also Martin Ryan's onstage debut as a member of Sunflies... 
So we're officially "back"... Bigger and better than ever.
A song - entitled 'Sunflies' - was also played live for the first time ever, and with it's brooding gothic dirge acted as a perfect bookend to our new opening track - Posion Light (which has been played as part of longer sets in the past).
Anyway, I guess we'd better book some more gigs... See you soon!
J
Panic Over! - 07/09/09
We're delighted to announce that Sunflies WILL be going ahead with their gig at The Doctor's Tonic in Welwyn Garden City this Friday, 9th September 2005. Come along and witness NEW SONGS and NEW BANDMEMBERS! Doors open at 8pm, and we're first on, so don't be late!
A Brief Period Of Uncertainty - 03/09/05
The decision has been made to discontinue sessions with recently-appointed drummer Nigel Graves. As such, Sunflies will either play an acoustic set or have to pull out of their slot at The Doctor's Tonic on Friday 9th September. We will get a message out to everyone on our mailing list and update the site as soon as we know what the plan is.
New Line-up Announced - 14/08/05
Sunflies are delighted to announce the arrival of two new bandmembers. Martin Ryan has been appointed as our new bass player, and Nigel Graves will replace Paul Matthews on drums. Biog's will be posted soon, but you can come along and see the new line-up in action at The Doctor's Tonic in WGC on Friday 9th September!
Line-up Changes - 24/07/05
We are very close to appointing a new bass player. Some other changes are also afoot... Watch this space!('Scuse the cliche).
Line-up Changes - 23/06/05
Sunflies are looking for a new bass player to replace Ed Pyle. Ed's done a great job over the past three months, and we've been through a fair bit together, but today we made a mutual and amicable decision to move on... Ed's heart is in the blues and Sunflies is at heart a gothic indie band: unsustainable levels of compromise are required to make that work! We wish Ed every success in his future projects and we will continue to network and stay in touch socially.
If you would like to audition to be our new bass player, please e-mail info@sunflies.co.uk.
Journal Entry - 16/06/05
Where does all the time go? After a superb night at The Doctor's Tonic on 3rd June, we had an unforgettable evening at The PumpHouse in Watford on 7th, then we got drafted in to fill the headline slot at The Green Man in Barnet on the 10th. We've got two or three possible dates later in July, but for now we're entirely focused on the Battle of the Bands at The Horn on Tuesday night.
Journal Entry - 05/06/05
We had a superb night at The Doctor's Tonic on Friday... Huge respect to Dave and Mungo for making us so welcome and for getting the sound spot on, and enormous thanks of course to the absolutely quality crowd!
Journal Entry - 18/05/05
It's all go isn't it? Two more dates booked in June, namely Friday 3rd at The Doctor's Tonic in Welwyn Garden City and Tuesday 21st at The Horn in St. Albans as part of this year's Battle of the Bands contest, forming the bread around the meaty filling that is our guest slot at The PumpHouse in Watford on 7th June.
Ach, I'd love to sit here a while longer and share some practiced-for-Parky style anecdotes with you, but I'd best re-string my guitars, work out the set-lists and get some practice in!
Journal Entry - 11/05/05
Another month, another growth spurt. April saw the passing of another couple of milestones for Sunflies, having played a closed showcase for NVA on the 16th, and cut our teeth at a private event doubling as our "first proper gig" on 30th.
Entering what feels like yet another new era for the band (I have this tremendous sense of being submerged for weeks and months at a time, followed by an enormous release - a re-surfacing accompanied by a life-saving gasp of oxygen), our focus now is lining up as many gigs as we can to "take the music to the people", and that process is already bearing fruit in the form of a booking as the guest band at The PumpHouse in Watford on 7th June, when we'll be playing two sets to open and close the evening, sandwiching a selection of acoustic acts... See the Live section of this website for full details.
Meanwhile, back in the rehearsal room, we're breaking more new ground... 2002's gothic beatnik collection has been exhumed and dissected by the band, and the results include a lithe take on Posion Light and a truly haunting yet visceral exploration of High Times. We can't wait to unleash them!
Journal Entry - 13/04/05
Sorry for lack of contact... It's been absolutely nuts.
There are lots of cool things on the horizon for Sunflies, but it would probably be foolish to talk about them here and now.
What I can tell you is that we are getting some amazing feedback on the recently recorded band demo. There are one or two people who are worried that we've completely turned our back on the more mellow acoustic material that initially got Sunflies noticed, and for them I can only offer reassurance that for the songs where it's appropriate to deliver them in a more delicate way, we will certainly do so - after all, Sunflies is about balance. In the meantime, the vast majority of original fans feel that what we've produced as a band is an enormous leap forward, and CD's seem to be circulating to new appreciators all the time.
Vampires, Speechless, Forever and our cover of The Doors' Break On Through have all received individual praise, though Vampires and Forever are the clearest winners...
Sincerely hope to have some photo's of the recording and rehearsal sessions up soon, together with mp3's for your listening pleasure. Putting the rest of the lyrics into a database so they can be uploaded is a big big task, but the other band members WILL get their Biog's up very soon to keep you amused! :OP
Journal Entry - 28/03/05
The more I listen to Saturday's session, the more convinced I am that we've done something really special.
Journal Entry - 27/03/05
Wow. What an amazing day we had yesterday! I was first to arrive at the studio at 10am. We spent until around 1.30pm setting everything up, and came away at 1.30am this morning with rough mixes of six songs.
I went back today and spent a few hours mixing and I think we should be very proud of what we achieved in a relatively short space of time. It's not perfect... My guitar had to be DI'd so a lot of the natural warmth of my DeVille was lost, and some of the vocals are a little hurried... But let us not forget the point of our visit: to get a clearer ida of where we are at this present time, to take away something we can reflect on and improve on between now and forthcoming gigs and showcases, and before we enter a pro studio. You just can't hear what's going on in those rehearsal tapings, and I feel that the production of this CD takes Sunflies forward into a new era.
Journal Entry - 25/03/05
Recor-ding tomor-row! Recor-ding tomor-row! Ver-y exci-ted!
But also a bit nervous. Not for any other reason that it is a widely know fact I never use a plectrum, and because we've been rehearsing so much in recent weeks, my main picking finger nail has worn right down and I'm now finding it hard to play accurately and without creating a huge blister on my fingertip.
It's amazing how something so small can throw everything into the balance. So, whilst I'm willing my nail to grow a couple of millimeters over night, I'm also wondering if I can pull off using a plectrum, considering I've never really used one before... I always felt it was like a barrier between me and the instrument.
Bottom line is, as we start playing more and more frequently, this nail is going to keep on eroding if I insist on using it. My friend Bill used to get false nails put on, but I'm not sure I want to try that for the first time when going into a recording session, even if it's something that can be done quickly enough to accommodate our needs tomorrow. Guess I should stop updating Journals and start practicing with a pick...
Journal Entry - 13/03/05
OK, so we missed out on a fair bit over the past week or so, but health is returning and we're revving up for action. Having had a productive rehearsal on Friday night (though especially exhausting given that we were still getting over the flu), we're picking up the pace in preparation for recording at Alma Road on 26th March, and our closed performance for management, which is pencilled in for 16th April.
So far we've got 'Vampires', 'Speechless', 'Break On Through', 'Forever', 'Television', 'Lately and 'Too Late For Hate' on the set-list. We need two or three more songs to bring us up to the required thirty minutes. The likeliest contenders are 'Storm', 'Try Hard', 'Sunflies', 'Halflife', 'The Sea', 'Sixth Sense', 'The Hanging Man' and/or perhaps another cover... The Cure's 'Just Like Heaven' or 'Close To Me'.
What songs do you think we should put in the set-list? E-mail your suggestions to james.aj.scott2@btinternet.com (our main @sunflies.co.uk addresses are still in the process of being set up at the moment).
Journal Entry - 05/03/05
Looks like the light at the end of the tunnel was just a bit of tin foil in my eye... I took a major turn for the worse on Friday but had had the foresight to cancel everything on Thursday night. The problem is, the studio is NOT available next weekend, and then the weekend after Paul has other commitments. The weekend after that is Easter, so I'm guessing the guys have plans, but we'll see. If we don't do it then, it'll be April and generally harder to get studio time. I feel like such an idiot for getting ill...
Journal Entry - 02/03/05
Antibiotics. The other good news is, it's not bird flu, and apparently it's normal to be coughing up a bit of blood. Marvellous. Apparently I should only worry if that continues for more than a fortnight. >:OV
This is the first time I've genuinely been able to see the light at the end of the tunnel though... Visualise being able to sing on Saturday...
Journal Entry - 01/03/05
"Withnail and I had drifted into the realm of the unwell...".
My god I'm ill... The only reason I'm sitting here writing this is because I had to do something to take my mind off the god-awful pain I'm experiencing. On Monday it was so bad that I couldn't actually move in order to do anything that would take my mind off it, so I'm improving slightly - looking on the bright side and doing my best not to think about the tendency that fate has to smother you with a deadly strain of bird flu just days before your first recording session with the band. We had such a great rehearsal on Saturday that I know we're ready to record a handful of songs, but I've been laid up with what feels like acid-coated razor blades in my throat ever since. I probably over-did it a bit... Singing for pretty much eight hours solid isn't probably regarded as clever by many people at all, but I've definitely contracted something nasty along the way too.
Journal Entry - 25/02/05
It's a new era for Sunflies. For the back story, check out 'About Sunflies' in the Biogs section, but to cut a long story short, after six years of writing and recording, I've decided "I'm ready" and have put a band together to develop Sunflies material for live presentation. A rigorous schedule is set for the coming months as we prepare to unveil a new, energetic, slighty heavier take on the existing material, gearing up for live shows and industry showcases starting in the late Spring/early Summer of this year.
It's immensely enjoyable and liberating to be collaborating in this way. Making music has once again become a spiritual journey for me; I am intoxicated by new levels of enlightenment every time I open my eyes at the end of a song.
So far, the songs most likely to be considered for our first set-list are:
The Language We Speak, Too Late For Hate, Lately, Vampires, Halflife, Break On Through (Doors cover), Speechless, Sunflies and Try Hard...
...but not necessarily in that order.
We're recording demo's on 5th March for our own reflective purposes; rehearsal recordings through a single mic are fairly useful but we need something cleaner to refer to in order to hear exactly what's going on and clarify whether or not we are taking the best approach for each song. In a perfect world we'll have something good enough to send out to fans and our management company so that everyone who "needs to know" can get a feel for how things are evolving and no doubt one or two clips will appear on this website soon after for anyone who is vaguely curious. If it goes REALLY well then it means we'll have even more material to choose from when compiling our official new demo, and one or two tracks might even manifest themselves as contenders for official single releases or album tracks.
I'm also getting used to updating this web journal, so apologies if the content is rather lacking in humour and/or genuinely useful information. If it's humour you want, go to the website of the bloody-nice-bloke who built this website - John Mawer: http://www.johnmawer.com/jmawer/ for not only is he a web wizard, but also one of the UK's hottest comedy talents, counting a Comedy Store award amongst his many accolades. Never has one man looked so much like Dan Ackroyd, Will Ferrell and Jimmy Carr all at once (OK, maybe not in these pictures) and been funnier than the lot of 'em (...OK, maybe not in these pictures! Pah!).
ABOVE: A Celebration of John Mawer.
From left to right: Serious Actor, Cool Guy, Clown Killer, and That Bloke You Shouldn't Sit Next To On The Bus.
Aah, maybe my icicle of a heart is starting to melt again, after another week working in the official 'industry of bitter bastards' TM.
Until next time, be excellent to each other,