BRING THE NOISE FESTIVAL | INTERVIEW MUDDY ELEPHANT

Muddy Elephant, a self-described house-party indie band from Manchester, has been making waves in the independent music scene. Comprised of Sam (Frontman), Carlos (Lead Guitar), Matt (Bass Guitar), and Harry (Drums), the four-piece band came together when Sam and Matt realised during their school years that music was their true calling. With Carlos and Harry joining later, Muddy Elephant began their journey as a united force, crafting a sound that merges energetic indie vibes with an undeniable passion for storytelling. As they prepare for their biggest gig yet, supporting Busted at The Piece Hall in Halifax on July 4th, and their debut performance in Sheffield at Bring the Noise Festival, the band is ready to take their music to new heights.

Could you introduce yourselves, who’s in the band, what your sound is, and how you came together?
We’re Muddy Elephant, a house party indie band from Manchester. The band is made up of Sam (Frontman), Carlos (Lead Guitar), Matt (Bass Guitar), and Harry (Drums). Sam and Matt started the band after realising that music was the only thing they were good at in school. Carlos and Harry later joined and formed the four-piece known as Muddy Elephant.

What’s happening for you right now? Any new releases, upcoming gigs, or exciting projects in the works?
Our biggest gig this year is supporting Busted again on July 4th at The Piece Hall in Halifax. We’ve got some new music in the works that will be released sometime this year, as well as our first-ever show in Sheffield for the Bring the Noise Festival!

Looking back, how has your music evolved since you first started out? Are there any key moments that shaped your sound or approach?
The main part of the sound evolution has definitely been Sam’s vocals. Having not had any professional training or ‘know-how’ to look after his voice, it’s become stronger each year. You can really tell the difference when comparing the earlier singles to the tunes we’re writing now.

What’s your biggest challenge as an independent band, and how have you navigated it?
Our biggest challenge has been pushing to get onto the festival circuit. It is frustrating to see the same bands getting on every year and others not getting the opportunity, but we strive to be the best version of ourselves, focusing on our music and our band, putting out the best music we can, and selling out shows.

What’s your songwriting and recording process like when creating new music? Do you have any unique rituals or methods?
Usually, Sam or Carlos comes in with the seed of a song and develops it into a demo, shaping its initial vision. It’s then brought to the band room for Webby and Harry to add their own flair. Lyrically, Sam takes the lead, often drawing inspiration from standout one-liners, toxic exes, or the chaos of modern dating.

If you had to describe your upcoming (or latest) release in just three words, what would they be?
Absolute Indie Banger! (upcoming ;))

What made Bring the Noise stand out to you? What excites you most about playing (or being part of) the festival?
The lineup is definitely impressive. This year is insane, and we feel privileged to be part of it. Three amazing stages with incredible bands—what more would you want to be a part of?

Sheffield has a rich musical history; how do you see your band fitting into or challenging that legacy?
Some of the best bands around have come out of Sheffield. We grew up listening to Arctic Monkeys, Rev and The Makers (whom we’ve previously supported), and even Bring Me The Horizon. Our main aim is to build a following in such a great city of music so we can keep coming back.

The indie scene is constantly evolving. Where do you see it heading, and how do you hope to contribute to its future?
We’ve noticed a wave of very ‘laddy’ indie bands. However, we’re slowly seeing proper indie guitar music creeping back in, so we’re sticking with our roots and will push to keep that coming through.

Who would you choose if one band on the lineup could cover your tracks?
Crystal Tides. They are an incredible band, and we can’t wait to see them live.

As Muddy Elephant continues to carve out their place in the indie music landscape, their focus remains on staying true to their roots and pushing the boundaries of their sound. With upcoming releases that promise to be “Absolute Indie Bangers” and opportunities like Bring the Noise Festival and their Halifax gig, the band’s future looks brighter than ever. Inspired by Sheffield’s rich musical legacy and determined to keep proper indie guitar music alive, Muddy Elephant’s journey is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and love for making music that resonates. Keep an eye out for what this talented foursome delivers next, you won’t want to miss it.

Muddy Elephant plays at the Bring The Noise Festival at Sheffield’s Network on the 26th of April. Tickets are available here: https://www.skiddle.com/festivals/bring-the-noise/