Founded in 2012, the Watford-based 3-piece alternative band, The Spitfires released their highly-regarded third album 'Year Zero' last year. We had a chat with lead singer, Billy about how each of their three albums differ from one other, how current society influences their music, and what he's listening to right now.
You’ve released three albums so far, ‘Response’, ‘A Thousand Times’ and ‘Year Zero’ – how does each album differ from the next?
I think you can just hear us learning our craft across the three records. We’d hardly been in a recording studio before we made our first record, it was such an exciting thing for us to be working on a big group of songs. In hindsight I suppose some of the ideas and lyrics are a tad naive but that’s what it’s all about. We’re still learning now and trying new things like our new single ‘Enough Is Enough’.
I’m proud to stand by everything we’ve released up until now. Some things worked and some things didn’t - I still think it’s better than most bands outputs over the last four years. And unfortunately mostly ignored too.
You cite reggae, ska, punk and soul as the genres that influence your music the most, but which bands – both past and present – have been the most influential for you?
When we were starting, it was bands like The Clash, The Jam, The Specials etc. but our tastes have broadened since then. Now there’s all sorts of influences going on.
Do you have a favourite venue to perform at?
I love performing anywhere. As long as people buy tickets and are up for it - it’s a good gig as far as I’m concerned. My favourite venues over the years have been Chinnerys in Southend, Rescue Rooms in Nottingham, Georgian Theatre in Stockton and Gorilla in Manchester.
You regard yourself as a politically-charged band, how does current society influence your music?
A lot of that is just fancy PR phrases, I just write about my own experiences or my friends experiences in these times we live in. We live in a really messed up world, if there’s one positive we make out of it then it’s music, right? And I suppose my own political opinions shape my outlook when it comes to lyrics and when it comes to our attitude as a band. The ultimate goal is left wing pop!
Aside from the UK, what’s your favourite country to visit when touring?
We went to France for the first time earlier this year and loved it. Germany is always great too.
What are you listening to right now?
SAULT - '5'
Electronic - 'Electronic'
Blur - 'The Great Escape'
The band are heading out on their 'Enough Is Enough' tour this October, and tickets are on sale now!
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