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Once there was Prog. Then there was Indie. Then came ‘the still’. The oldest members are only 18. Here are one of the youngest, most promising potential filled talents to emerge on the current Sheffield Music Scene. Originally conjured up by vocalist Jim Trueman (who at the time dabbled on bass) and guitarist Ben Prangell, as a middle of the road acoustic mish-mash in the vein of Turin Brakes and Travis, it soon became evident that Jim’s voice was something not to be wasted.
They soon realised that their song writing would benefit no end with the introduction of a rhythm section, and so the original band was formed with the line-up of Jim on vocals, Ben on guitar, Jonno Andrews on drums and Rory Belcher on bass. The band played a couple of fruitful gigs and made a few early recordings which led to ‘The Today EP’ (now a cringe worthy memory of past times) and the composing of ‘Two Left Feet’ in its original form. However, it soon became evident that ‘musical differences’ were creating a rift in the band and a new bassist was going to be needed. Enter Jack Lowe.
Jack is something special, a bassist that isn’t content with skulking in the shadows but rather taking any opportunity to break out the slap and tickle solos he is so well known for on his beast of an instrument known affectionately to the band as “Mad Dog Eddy.” His enthusiasm and new ideas brought a new lease to the band, bringing a new direction to the new songs, and reviving old favourites in a way unlike before.
The appearance of Ewan Gilford on the scene was purely chance. Ben, Jonno, Jack and Ewan were all part of the jazz band providing the music for the theatrical production of Bugsy Malone at the Crucible. He and Jack had known each other for years and played together many times before (including in the former band ‘Timeless’) but he was not really known to the others. However, when Ewan began playing a self composed riff, which Ben immediately caught into, along with the others ending in a full scale impromptu jam, popularly known as ‘Whose got the Fear’ (now a firm fav at gigs) it was obvious that he could take the band to whole new heights.
It was after this show that Ben, on a whim, broached the question to Ewan of whether he would like to play in the band’s next gig, even if it was just to jam along. He thankfully agreed and from then on became a vital member of the group.
…And so the band known today as ‘the still’ was established…
The new line-up, all accomplished musicians in their own right brought different and individual influences into the band. Firmly based in the Indie field, new ideas shone through.
Jim, heavily influenced by the likes of James Walsh, Olly Knights, Frank Sinatra and a splash of Joe ....er, began to realise new ranges. He soon developed his own style noticeable in songs such as ‘Dream for us’ and the openly honest lyrics of ‘What is it worth’.
With the band solidly resting in Ben’s (yes I know what you’re thinking, ‘HOW COOL is HE!’ ;)) more than capable hands he could start to bring out his more progressive influences, such as Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Yes, Led Zeppelin et al, (all thankfully introduced to him by his Dad at an early age,). Particularly noticeable is his Floydesque solo in ‘Whose got the Fear’, and the Synth-like Jonny Greenwood tomfoolery guitar sounds heard at the beginning of ‘Dream for Us’.
Ewan is a classically trained Jazz pianist, and this most likely led to the comparisons to Jules Holland and Matt Bellamy. Not only an amazingly talented pianist, he can also sing, play guitar, bass, viola, drums and Ukulele. A true Maestro! His delicate tinkling of ivories brought a new feel, and song writing scope to the band.
Jack Lowe is truly a Mad Dog. Do not be fooled by his seemingly innocent looking outer, for he is a beast waiting to be let out through his bass playing inside. Playing in a style influenced by such masters as Mark King, Flea and John Entwhistle, he will welcomingly take the limelight with his unique style, noticeable in his solo to ‘The Clap’ (No, not named after an STD!). Mark King look out!
Jonno (A.K.A “The King of Life”) is a wall of solid beats (not a literal wall), most notably in ‘Who’s got the fear’ and ‘Come on’. Not only a vital drummer but also a key member to the band’s morale. There’s no doubt that the band wouldn’t be as enthusiastic on stage if it wasn’t for Jonno. As well as his roots in Indie, he has explored the world of Hip-Hop music, firmly announcing his beats to be inspired by such artists as ‘Eminem’, ‘Fifty Cent’ and ‘Dre’. He is undoubtedly the driving force behind the still’s songs.
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The band have quickly become noticed as having much potential, and I quote ‘they deserve the fan base they hold’ (Linnie Rawlinson, BBC). Playing such prestigious venues as the Leadmill last year, and The Sheffield City Hall to 1200 people, they are hungry for more notice on the scene. More recently to boot was the successful gig at the NMB. Not only have the band’s live performances been acclaimed, their recently recorded E.P. ‘Two Left Feet’ featuring ‘Two left Feet’ a madly catchy Undertonesy indie romp, ‘What is it Worth’ a heartfelt ballad to a past relationship, (avoiding clichés I add!) and ‘Indispensable Lies’ a chugging homage to pre 70’s Prog and Radiohead circa creep era, has also received much praise and sold well.
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The Still Lists the following Influences
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Pink Floyd, Turin Brakes, Supergrass, Led Zepellin, Eminem (?), Starsailor, Radiohead
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Acoustic
