Arcade Avenue are a five piece, pop-punk/rock band, hailing from the scenic background of rural North Wales. Originally formed in 2007 by long-time friends Siôn Jones on guitar, and Ollie Gallop on drums, the pair had a thirst for making music but initially struggled to find other members. In 2008, however, this changed. Cue the entry of recommended rhythm guitarist Arawn Thompson. Fast forward four years and a few unsuccessful attempts at finding both a lead singer and a bass player, and it looked like hope was dwindling for the band. 2012, however, was set to be the their year. Enter vocalist Matt Starr as the band’s frontman in the early months of the year, and soon after that the addition of Sam Saunders as bass player followed. The line up was complete.
Chemistry between all of the bandmates happened literally immediately. In fact, all five physically stood in the same room together for the very first time a mere two hours before their first ever live performance which, naturally, went off without a hitch. Following this, and within two months of the band fully forming, Arcade Avenue were already thinking about frequent gigging, recording and releasing a fully fledged EP, and setting up a summer tour for 2013.
Described by fans as “f***ing great” and, similarly, “f***ing sick”, Arcade Avenue were an immediate hit at their first show, drawing a large crowd (with Matt at the centre of it) and a party-rock atmosphere. Not many bands can boast shouts of “encore!” at their first show from complete strangers, but somehow Arcade Avenue managed it. Following on, the venue immediately asked the band to play again a month later, finally convincing the band that, maybe, they did have something good going here.
Future plans? The band is now due to enter the studio to record their first EP in September 2012, and then the plan is to get as much exposure as possible. Shows, shows and more shows will be the order of the day, with the aim to reach as many people as possible with their music. Keep an eye and both ears out, you’ll be hearing from Arcade Avenue very soon.Arcade Avenue are a five piece, pop-punk/rock band, hailing from the scenic background of rural North Wales. Originally formed in 2007 by long-time friends Siôn Jones on guitar, and Ollie Gallop o... read more.