Northern rock band, ROLLA, has stunned stages across the country. However, what else is there to discover about the upcoming stars?
Who is ROLLA?
ROLLA is a grunge-inspired group made up of five fierce members: James Gilmore, Luke Gilmore, Luke McConnell, Tom Paddon, and Ryan Hunt. Formed in Greater Manchester, most of the members met in university, but it was their strong passion, talent, and friendship that formed the group's foundations. Singer and songwriter, James Gilmore, has shared some additional insight about the band's history.
Brothers James and Luke harmonised and jammed with guitars in their bedroom throughout their childhood - Luke is currently the bass player in ROLLA. Even before the band's creation, the individuals knew each other, attending the same school in different years, where Tom and Luke MC (the now guitarists) knew of the brothers. Eventually meeting at university, the group shared a similar spark in music, but it wasn't until they started living in the same house together that ROLLA started rolling.
Like rock 'n' roll style, the band innovated and wrote their songs late at night, or in the early hours in the morning. As time passed, they ultimately met the drummer, Ryan, the last member they needed to finalise the group's formation. This led them to take trains all around Manchester to establish band practice and rehearsals.
Comedically, James stated his ideal version of how ROLLA formed: "If you want the rock 'n' roll answer though, we all met at a bar, drinking whiskey."
ROLLA's recent Mancunian performance.
Sensationalising Manchester's stage on the 24th of April, many rock fans were enthralled by the band's sheer enthusiasm and demeanour. The event occurred at the famous 'Band on the Wall', featuring two floors and holding up to 500 individuals. Starting at 7pm, the performance lasted until 11pm. This show is a benchmark for the local band, expanding their fanbase, as well as being a monumental live moment.
A long-term fan, and attendee of the concert, Mark from Manchester, shared his experience online. He wrote "ROLLA… you were brilliant…"
Who have been the band's greatest musical influences?
ROLLA's greatest musical influences lie with notorious groups like Queens of the Stone Age and The Verve, yet their influences are endlessly versatile. However, ROLLA has an extraordinary approach when writing and recording songs, uniquely inspired by 'vibes' to innovate new music.
Lately, James (ROLLA's singer) discussed how they discover their inspirations, despite how random they can be. He said, "You know, just always trying to find inspiration in every direction. But it can go the other way and be like right let’s take this heavy track and add some corny Disneyesque backing vocals and harmonies on it."
What experiences have shaped the group unexpectedly as artists?
ROLLA replied that social media has unexpectedly shaped them as musicians. The band encourages individuals to live and embrace the moment. Gigs can create new connections, memories, and motivate you to feel the music: individuals receive more in real life than through an electronic device.
In their response, they talked about some of the negatives of it, whilst being in a modern-day band. From temporary trends and sometimes monotonous content, social media can be a dull place for contemporary artists: ROLLA motivates musicians and fans to live in the occasion.
Where are ROLLA's upcoming events?
Presently, the roaring rock band has many upcoming events. Stretching from Scunthorpe to the Isle of Wight, there are various gigs across this summer. Additionally, ROLLA has an imminent October tour, including: Newcastle, Leeds, Liverpool, Blackpool, Luton, and Derby; this is an exciting time for the Tameside band.
ROLLA's words of wisdom for young aspiring musicians.
"Don’t lose yourself in social media numbers and trends, it’s not cool to do the exact same as thousands of other bands, do your own thing, rehearse as much as you possibly can and create a live show that people can not forget, that’s the most valuable thing. Peace. "- ROLLA.
Overall, ROLLA is facing success after success. From tens of thousands of views on Youtube, to limitless tours, the spark of the group is growing. ROLLA highly emphasises the enjoyment of music and that passion will drive you to victories.
More Information
https://rollaband.co.uk/live-dates-2
https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Manchester/Band-On-The-Wall/ROLLA---Manchester/41978275/
https://nightnday.org/show/rolla/
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