Exclusive interview with Marsicans

Ross Mondon interviewed indie band Marsicans about their career and what we can expect from them in the future...

Marsicans at The Joiners, photo by Ross Mondon

The band from Leeds is earning themselves a high reputation in the British music industry due to their energetic sound and exciting shows. Lead singer James Newbigging formed the group in 2011 when he reportedly "poached and absolutely sharked" bass player Rob Brander from a different band.

Oliver Jameson, photo by Ross Mondon

Unfortunately, not everyone liked each other first off. Drummer, Matthew 'Cale' McHale admitted this about fellow band mate and guitarist Olly Jameson, but when I interviewed them I could tell they have become best friends. Each member has their own influences, ranging from School of Rock to Metallica. They aspire to become a "cool indie band" like Bombay Bicycle Club.

They gained a small fan base by gigging in pubs and around Leeds. This lead them to release their first EP in 2014 and their debut album 'Absence' two years later. The album is made up of 8 tracks and was described by the band as "technically an EP". During these years, Marsicans generated positive reviews which grew their fan base even further. They sold out shows around the UK and graced stages of festival likes Reading and Leeds. Marsicans described this particular festival as "the biggest thing we have done" and in fact admitted it to being "scary". Their rise in the music scene led them to support big indie names like Catfish and the Bottlemen, The Pigeon Detectives and Embrace.

Marsicans playing in Southampton, photo by Ross Mondon

However, their most prolific year would have to be 2017. The band signed to LAB Records, their EP hit a million play on Spotify, BBC Radio 1 used their singles in their weekly playlist and once again featured at half a dozen UK festivals.

They are currently working on an album which they have named their "first proper record" Although fans should be warned, Rob did admit "we can't tell you when that is coming out because honestly, we have no idea". In addition, Marsicans are once again on the line up for Neighbour Weekender, Tramlines, Truck and many more.

They might be performing at some of the largest festivals in the UK, but they believe their biggest event to date will be performing at Elland Road in their hometown. Marsicans will be supporting Kaiser Chiefs as they celebrate 100 years of football team Leads United. The fact Elland Road is a stadium puts extra emphasis on Marsicans's rising in the music industry. Not only will the band be performing side by side with Kaiser Chiefs but also The Vaccines and The Sherlocks. This makes this particular show "a big deal" as well as the aspect of performing in front of their home crowd.

Marsicans's first EP and album have become such a success, we cannot help but hope the album in the making will shake the music industry. Fans are in for a treat with the band playing their tour and at major festivals. Will we see Marsicans one day touring across the world and headlining main stages?