Influences: Heavy Beat Brass Band

We love brass bands at HiFi, and we are excited to welcome a new one to the club soon: the Heavy Beat Brass Band. Originating from Birmingham, but with their hearts in New Orleans (the epicentre of all brass music), the band are still touring off the back of the release of their album Get It Started in March. It featured blistering covers of pop classics alongside plenty of original tunes, and that is exactly what we expect to hear when they visit HiFi on 13th August. But how did they come to make music like this? Figure out why by taking a look at their influences.

 

Act name: Heavy Beat Brass Band

Band members: Alex Astbury (Trumpet), Max Astbury (Trumpet), Lee Griffiths (Tenor Sax), Dave Sear (Trombone), Dan Spirett (Bari Sax), Charlie Lancaster (Sousaphone), Gwilym Jones (Snare Drum) and David Sugden (Bass Drum)

Hometown: Birmingham

Genre: New Orleans Brass Band

 

A record that made you play an instrument?

“Youngblood Brass Band – Centre Level Road.”

 

A tune from your teens?

“Wheatus – Teenage Dirtbag.”

 

A record that changed your music taste?

“Life & Times of The Hot 8 Brass Band.”

 

An unlikely influence?

“Napalm Death, Rage Against the Machine.”

 

A current influence?

“Every New Orleans brass band currently coming out of the city.”

 

A record you want played at your funeral?

“Just a Closer Walk With Thee.”

 

 

Have you played the Sunday Joint before?

“It’s Heavy Beat Brass’ first time getting down in HiFi.”

 

What can we expect from your performance on Sunday?

“The most authentic New Orleans sound you can find this side of the Atlantic remixed with classic party bangers as well as some original music.”

 

What does your act have coming up?

“This summer we are at Shambala Festival Manchester Jazz fest at Matt & Phreds, as well as Derry Jazz Festival next year. We also play regularly in our hometown of Birmingham at the Hare & Hounds, Cogs Bar and many more. You can also catch us in London at Pop Brixton this August.”

 

Have a look at HBBB’s Facebook page here.