A band comprised of members from Swindon is returning to the town for one final gig this year following a successful tour.
All Ears Avow are a pop-rock band which were founded in the Wiltshire town in 2013 after its four members had met in college years before.
Claire Sutton, 35, is the lead vocalist and guitarist, as well as main songwriter and the band’s producer, making her job busy to say the least.
“We are primarily pop-rock/emo-rock, but we’ve always prided ourselves on transcending genres and embracing all of our music tastes,” she said.
“We’re a blend of poppy hooks and dirty riffs!”
Jake Willcock, 27, plays guitar, Joe Bishop, 33, plays bass and Sean Ivens, 33, plays drums as well as backing vocals on stage.
“I grew up around Marlborough and moved to Swindon as an adult, but the rest of us are Swindon born and bred,” said Claire.
“Joe, Jake and I live over the North side, and Sean lives in Wroughton.”
Despite the band playing several shows outside of Swindon since their inception and many more this year, returning to their hometown is always special for the guys.
“We love coming home to Swindon! We play all over the country but there is something so special about coming home,” said Claire.
“Seeing familiar faces that have supported us for years and years constantly coming back out, as well as our own family and friends - it’s a very special thing for us.
“The Victoria and Level 3 both have a very special place in our hearts.”
All Ears Avow are of course not the first band to come out of Swindon and gain notoriety, with rock-infused XTC releasing several hits such as ‘Making Plans for Nigel’ and ‘Dear God’ after their inception in 1972.
Although their genres differ, the members of All Ears Avow still have a lot of respect for their musical predecessors in the Wiltshire town.
“We wouldn’t necessarily say that XTC are idols of ours, however, it is super inspiring to see a band from a town like Swindon go on to create such a legacy worldwide,” said Claire.
“We have a friend from Australia, who was obsessed with the idea of coming to Swindon because that’s where XTC were from! For a band from Swindon to have such an impact, that’s what’s truly inspiring to us!”
The band also hope that Swindon remains a breeding ground for young talented musicians to follow in their footsteps in the coming years.
“We’ve got a town full of incredible musicians, with such dedication and passion for the art,” explained Claire.
“Swindon can often be overlooked, but I think we have incredible talent here!”
The band will play their last gig of the year on Friday, December 30, at one of Swindon’s main music venues, Level 3.
Even if you are unaware of All Ears Avow, the band has encouraged all to attend as their style is reminiscent of other notable rock bands you may be familiar with.
“Anyone should come along who likes big choruses and big riffs,” laughed Claire.
“We are especially for fans of Paramore, Don Broco, Bring Me The Horizon, PVRIS, just to name a few!”
The band will be supported by fellow local bands NervEndings, Something Underneath, Chasing Dolls, and Trippy Kicks.
You can buy tickets on the door for £5 or alternatively you can get purchase them for £3 in advance here.
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