Performing their first gig just five months ago, North London indie rockers The Black Roses have been building up their reputation in London’s live scene.
Forming after meeting at Glastonbury Festival last year, the four-piece began gigging in March and have since released two tracks online, ‘Bad Habits’ and ‘She Makes The Rain Dance’.
With their musical journey underway, as the band take time out of gigging to write, we caught up with lead singer and guitarist Anthony Stevens.
Can you tell us about the formation of The Black Roses?
We have Glastonbury to thank for our very existence! Anthony met drummer Mike at Glasto 2015 then the band started rehearsing late September as a four-piece. Lead singer Anthony already knew bassist Val and lead guitarist Richard.
How would you describe your music for those who may not have discovered it yet?
Energetic indie rock, a little bit punky at times.
Which bands/artists do you take most influence from?
Queens of the Stone Age, Stones Roses, Arctic Monkeys and the Strokes.
If you could tour the UK with any band, who would it be and why?
I personally would love to tour with We Are Scientists. Their live shows are always hysterically funny between songs and a whole tour hanging with them would be incredible. Maybe Hinds as well? They’re fun too!
What three things are guaranteed at one of your live shows?
A selection of fantastically comprised indie pleasure, a drop of alcohol and an uneasy feeling that your toes want to start tapping!
What are your plans for the rest of 2016?
We are writing at the moment, taking a little break from gigging as had done so quite vigorously for the last few months. You could say we are playing ‘hard to get’. We will be back gigging from October.
Anything else you wish to add?
Come and hang at one of our shows. We promise we will turn up too:)