BRING THE NOISE FESTIVAL | SWAN INTERVIEW

Established in 2021, SWAN is an energetic band featuring Keane Ward’s dynamic vocals alongside talented guitarists Harry Allen and Oliver Thorpe. The rhythm section consists of skilled drummer Matt Shenton and bassist Rob Collins, creating a cohesive and powerful sound. In the past few years, SWAN has captivated audiences across various venues in Sheffield, where they have built a passionate and loyal fanbase. Their exhilarating live performances have led to memorable headline shows at popular spots like Corporation, Sidney & Matilda, and Yellow Arch. Additionally, they have had the opportunity to support notable acts, including favourite Frankie Beetlestone and the iconic Tom Hingley, former frontman of the legendary Inspiral Carpets. The year 2024 marks a significant milestone for the band with the release of their eagerly awaited debut EP, “The House Is On Fire.” This collection of songs showcases their unique blend of sounds and is currently available for streaming on all major platforms, allowing new and old fans to experience their music.

Could you introduce yourselves, who’s in the band, what your sound is, and how you came together?

We’re SWAN, a 5-piece Sheffield-based band made up of Keane Ward (Lead Vocals), Harry Allen (Guitar), Ollie Thorpe (Guitar), Rob Collins (Bass) and Matt Shenton (Drums). We came together in 2021, having all moved to Sheffield a few years prior.

What’s happening for you right now? Any new releases, upcoming gigs, or exciting projects in the works?

It’s not been too long since we released our EP, ‘The House Is On Fire,’ so we’re looking to gain some traction, play more gigs outside our area, and work towards our next big release.

Looking back, how has your music evolved since you first started out? Are there any key moments that shaped your sound or approach?

Since we started out, we’ve definitely developed a heavier sound. When we first started playing, we all thought we’d go in a different direction, but we naturally ended up on the heavier side of the spectrum.

What’s your biggest challenge as an independent band, and how have you navigated it?

Trying to balance our time and figure out when all five of us are free to practice, gig, record, and create content on top of our jobs has always been difficult. However, it is always worth it! There is no better feeling than making music and playing it live.

What’s your songwriting and recording process like when creating new music? Do you have any unique rituals or methods?

Challenging but fun. Generally, someone will come into practice with an idea, and everyone jumps in with their own input, trying out new things and looking for someone else to stroke their ego until everyone’s happy with a structure.

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

Live. Laugh. Love.

What made Bring the Noise stand out to you? What excites you most about playing (or being part of) the festival?

When we were approached to be part of it, we thought the lineup looked classy. It’s a great mix of bands we’ve played with before and seen doing great things. We’re buzzing to be involved!

Sheffield has a rich musical history; how do you see your band fitting into or challenging that legacy?

We think we already have the angsty vibe that has served some great Sheffield bands well over the years, the right mix of irony and attitude that has made them iconic.

The indie scene is constantly evolving. Where do you see it heading, and how do you hope to contribute to its future?

The indie scene seems to have moved toward brighter and cleaner music, some of which is great. However, we also hope to see a revival of the more raw and gritty rock sound that we have always leaned towards as a band.

Who would you choose if one band on the lineup could cover your tracks?

We’d love to see what the N.S.O. would do with one of our tracks, something like The Fall or House On Fire.

SWAN 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/