| Sounds of Swami | |
|---|---|
| Background information | |
| Origin | Keighley, West Yorkshire, UK |
| Genres | Post Hardcore Punk Progressive Rock Rock Hardcore Punk Alt Rock |
| Years active | 2005–present |
| Labels | Drawing Board Records TNSrecords |
| Website | Official Facebook |
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.[1] 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.
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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 band spent the first two years writing and demoing material using their own portable recording equipment.
The band's debut EP Vent (2008) was very well received on the underground punk circuit,[2][3] 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.[4][5][6][7] Their songs have been included on several international punk compilations.[8]
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, Bradford. He was replaced by Joe Dimuantes formally of skacore outfit Random Hand and who plays alongside Luke in The Human Project.
The band started writing new songs in July 2011 and is currently working towards recording their debut album with producer James Bragg.
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. Their debut single Jack was released as dbr003.