Coming out of North Wales is the band known as The Joy Formidable. They consist of Ritzy Bryan (lead vocals, guitar), Rhydian Dafydd (bass guitar, backing vocals) and Matt Thomas (drums, percussion).
Long story short: Bryan and Dafydd were once part of Tricky Nixon in 2003, then Nixon reformed into Sidecar Kisses in 2006. When Kisses disbanded in 2007, the childhood friends went back to their hometown of Mold, Wales and formed The Joy Formidable. They experimented with their sounds and released their first singles in 2008 and an EP in 2009. They relocated to London, recruited Thomas and became a trio. From there, they toured small venues in the US, UK and Australia. Their music earned praise from Shirley Manson, Courtney Love, Dave Grohl and Mark Hoppus. In 2010, they signed with Canvasback Records and released their debut album, "The Big Roar".
They recently played their single, "Whirring" on Conan. Speaking of which, "Whirring" is what caught my attention. It was one of those "Stop Talking and Listen!" moments I had, much like when I had first heard The Airborne Toxic Event. Upon first hearing this single, it reminded me of Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Naked and Famous and Anthem Facility, mixed a little of the sounds of 1990s Alternative Rock.
Now, I have to note, there are two versions of Whirring. The original version was from the 2008 EP, and that version was shorter with a grunge feel to it. The version that was played on Conan and heard on the radio is much longer, the sound amplified and ends with a nearly 4 minute long guitar riff. I enjoy both versions, but some listeners may tire of the riff.
I skimmed over the rest of Roar, much of it does remind me of The Smashing Pumpkins, Hole and Garbage with a 2011 feel. However, I must say, that I also listened to the EP, A Balloon Called Moaning, and I enjoyed that just as well.
The Joy Formidable are currently on tour in France and are expected to make an appearance at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival this month and in August, at Lollapalooza in Chicago. Be sure to check out their official website and get a free download.
Other than that, I leave you with this music video.
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