SPOTLIGHT: BRENDAN ROGERS

Tim Jones of Rise and Shine Music says they discovered you playing at Lazy Bear California…

How did you end up playing around a campfire at a gay bear festival in the US?

One of my very close friends lives in San Francisco, and I was visiting at the time of the Lazy Bear event. We headed up to Guernville for a few days and while I was there we were invited to a large party where they had an outside campfire space. The organisers thought it would be cool if I could provide some live music.

I found out this was the Tonker party and got to know Tim Jones who was running it. We remained in contact, and now Tim is helping me promote my music

What’s been your career trajectory since? 

Since then I began to play regularly in London and teamed up with cellist Roland Anderson. During this period I was spotted by Grammy Award winning producer Dom Morley, who has worked with Adele, Amy Winehouse, and The Verve. Dom helped put us into the studio and worked on our first demo tracks.

On the back of these we were able to secure some great support slots with bands such as the Magic Numbers. It has also enabled us get onto the festival circuit playing gigs at Lovebox last year and Standon Calling in August. We have released our first single and are now set for a number of local gigs across London.

Do you still play the bear parties?
I am more mainstream and really do festivals and traditional music venues these days. In 2012 we aim to play some of the bigger events such as Latitude, Bestivel and have been asked back to Standon Calling again.

What influences you when you’re making music?

I am a real fan of strong melodies and harmonies, so my influences come from listening to various categories of music, but a couple of artists that I am always drawn to are Jonsi and Neil Young.

What do you think of the UK audiences so far after your summer tour?

The public has been fantastic and we are attracting a strong fan base. We launched our single last month at The Social Club in London and had a brilliant reception. This has spurned us on to do a number of extra gigs across London for the rest of the year.

Have you heard any stories about The Eagle ahead of you playing there on the 24th?

I am actually a big Fan of Jim Stanton and The Horsemeat Disco guys. In my opinion, it’s the best club night in London, so I have spent a good few nights there. I love the venue and its unique garden space, and look forward to playing there.

Catch Brendan at The Eagle (349 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SE11 5QY) on Saturday 24th September.

His EP Valentine is available now. www.brendanrogers.com

Images: Angus Stewart

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