The Reverence are a Brighton-based band who formed in September 2008. In the short amount of time they have been together they have recorded an EP and an album and have played several live shows to an already dedicated fan base (including support for The Last Republic, The Third Man and Light (James McCartney’s band)). They are due to release their debut single My Town at the beginning of 2010 and are working with short-film director, Liam Creighton, to make a music video to accompany it. They are hoping to release their debut album Monument in early 2010.
Vocalist/guitarist/synth player, Bob Duffield, was bass player for pop-rockers Doll & The Kicks from late 2006 to early 2008 (a band who are now well on their way to world domination). After leaving them he looked to form a band of his own. Vocalist/bassist, Mark D. Evennett, used to play bass for the hugely popular Brighton pop/funk band Wonky Beak, who recorded and played together for several years. In 2008, drummer, Kev Edwards, and Mark were playing in a covers band together. At the same time as Bob was looking for another band, they were looking for another band member.
When The Reverence first rehearsed, immediately the chemistry between all members was clear to see. Mark and Bob both write and sing about similar themes and have similar inspirations for their lyrics and music, yet they are both unique. This makes for a very dynamic band, as does the way Mark plays his driving bass lines with passion and flair and Kev’s thunderous drum beats. Bob doesn’t like to think his guitar is simply a guitar and sometimes strives to make it sound like anything but. Add to the mix subtle touches of synth and a huge amount of energy and purpose and The Reverence become a totally unique and exciting band that stand out in a town full of up-and-coming bands.
The influences in the band range from post-punk (Joy Division, Queens Of The Stone Age) to anthemic indie (Interpol, Editors) to epic Brit-rock (Radiohead, Elbow) to alternative/modern Americana (REM, The National). When listening to their music you can also hear touches of 80s electronica, 21st century indie-disco and out-and-out punk-rock. But The Reverence don’t set out to copy anyone else’s music; their music is entirely their own and transcends genres. They prefer the idea of setting trends, not copying them.
The Reverence create the kind of intricate pop songs that grow and reveal themselves more with every listen. Captivating melodies and catchy vocal and instrumental hooks imbed themselves into the listener’s consciousness and bursts of unexpected electronica and anthemic choruses keep them entranced. With most of their songs never exceeding the 3 and a half minute mark, they never outstay their welcome and leave the listener wanting more.
The Reverence write about the dark things in life that affect everyone – fears, frustration, worry, anger, loneliness and uncertainty. But they write to make things better, not to depress. Their songs are filled with hope and are brightened by a light at the end of the tunnel. Their energetic live shows aim to bring people together, excite them, help them forget their worries and enjoy themselves. They are excited about the music they write and play and at the potential they have to be a truly great band.
