With critically acclaimed and hook-filled single Guilty Love becoming a constant feature in the heads of anyone who’s heard it and a game-changing debut album, Life’s Machine, waiting in the wings for a May release, Portsmouth blues-rockers Brave Rival have a lot to smile about.
Brave Rival – South Coast Soul
Interview: Paul Monkhouse
Formed in 2019, not even a global pandemic could stop their seemingly inevitable rise, the band honing their skills and getting ready for their assault on the hearts and minds of all lovers of good music.
Blending a mutual love of Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac and Heart, the quintet brings an authentic flavour of America’s West Coast cool and summery vibes, the South’s voodoo soul power, and mix up with a distinctly English grit and fire.
With twin powerhouses, Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick providing earthy yet skyscraping vocals, the muscular and bluesy guitar chops of Ed Clarke, the deep canyon groove of bass player Billy Dedmam and Donna Peters’ drums providing the rocket-fueled engine that drives the beast, the band exude confidence well placed.
Whilst the music is laser-focused, the band have an easy-going charm. Their crowdfunding video and behind the scenes footage show a group of friends who genuinely have a great time together on the journey.
With many successful dates under their belts already and a UK Blues Award Nomination for Best Emerging Blues Band 2022, the outfit continues to build on its rising reputation.
MetalTalk caught up with four-fifths of Brave Rival, Chloe absent having just become a mother, for a chat to hear how their story has been unfolding and where the road ahead may lead them.
