DESCRIPTION:
'Nick and the Sun Machine' are an Alternative Folk/Rock band that formed in March 2012 and hail from St Albans, Hertfordshire.

Nick Stephenson (Guitar/Vocals) was already an established solo musician when he released his debut album 'Dream Logic' in December 2010. Critical acclaim emerged from the likes of Sound on Sound and R2 Magazine. He has appeared at celebrated British festivals such at Glastonbury and Secret Garden Party.

He and Simon Hadwin (Drums/Vocals) have been in bands together since they were teenagers. As a result, they have an exciting synergy that is now complimented by the other two members of 'the Sun Machine'. The pair approached Joe White (Bass/Vocals) after watching him perform at a local festival, skillfully playing bass and singing with his Ska band. Michael J Scott (Lead Guitar/Keys) was the last to join. Nick met Michael at an open mic night in St Albans and was impressed with his vocal ability and musicianship on stage. It later transpired that Michael's main talent was playing Lead Guitar.

The band have many passionate discussions about the music they love on the way to gigs and rehearsals. They listen to many of the same bands together, occasionally breaking down on the motorway to rehearse in the hard shoulder!

Their sound is informed by contemporary innovators such as Animal Collective and Wild Beasts but also the inventive, angular pop of Blur and XTC, the cinematic eccentricities of Bjork and multi layered harmonies of The Beach Boys. Many influences are thrown into the pot to create something new. Nick's songs are honest and lyrical with their roots grounded in folk music but with an insistent pulse and imaginative take on contemporary pop provided by the band.

Their first single 'Fast Learner' is an ambitious, hyperactive tour-de-force that buzzes with relentless rave-like energy. It is driven by Nick's attacking acoustic guitar and the group's inventive 4-part harmonies. The B-side 'White Chalk' is inspired catchy pop and has proven to be a live favourite.

In July 2012, Nick and the Sun Machine appeared at Folk by the Oak, Hatfield House, sharing the line up with the likes of Cara Dillon and folk legends Show of Hands.

http://www.nickandthesunmachine.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/NickAndTheSunMachine

Very excited to announce that Nick and the Sun Machine are joining the Folkstock Arts Foundation and performing at the NO FEAR @ The Forum Hertfordshire showcase on 26th June 2013. Tickets £5. Email folkstock@hotmail.co.uk for bookings.

http://www.folkstockartsfoundation.com/