Recently we had the pleasure of sitting Down with up-and-coming Welsh band Subterrania ahead of gigs in Newcastle and Halifax.

Four lads from Swansea, music-mad, driven, and with the talent to boot. If limited to only a sentence, That is exactly how we’d describe Subterrania. As it happens though, we have far more to say, as did the lads themselves.

One of the first things we spoke about was the recent recognition of their talent, by their signing to record and management label, Snowdonia Records. They spoke about how the signing has “been great” for them and how “it’s a nice community with a great bunch of lads. So it’s nice to be part of something like that”.

Their music has drawn comparisons to the likes of both Oasis and The Stone Roses, as well as other iconic groups. This is thanks to the melodic inflections of frontman Dylan Cai, the groovy electrical sounds from Fin Roach (guitar) and Jamie Tooze (bass), all topped off by the fierce drumming from Luis Hancock; intelligent and fresh indie rock with a nostalgic sense of familiarity.

It seemed as well that these comparisons have legs, as when asked about where they would most like to play, there was only one answer: “Manchestaaaa” as the boys put it, sporting their best attempt at a Manc accent, one I doubt that the Gallaghers, who they’ve been compared too, would take too well. Something, the chorus of chuckles would indicate, they knew themselves too.

The group were very outspoken about their excitement for their upcoming shows, supporting Marseille in both Halifax and Newcastle, even sharing with us the efforts they are making to perform at the shows. “We got two cars going up, which is gonna be expensive, two drivers, so half the band go on one car, half in other one”.

Musical ambitions aside, it is clear they are a charismatic and entertaining bunch. Jokes and friendly banter were had. Especially so when the band discussed plans to see the Angel of the North, to which  drummer Luis Hancock replied “I thought it was  f***ing service station”. With a chorus of thunderous laughter following, not one person sure wether he was serious or not.

They came across as lads who love being in one another’s company, and on stage is where that is more true than any other place. The lads themselves put it best when asked why people should catch their show? “I just think we’ve got a close bond, and that really transfers to the music, and when we do gigs, it’s just always a good night.”

So far, they already boast some pretty impressive feats for a group of their age, having supported late-1980s/early-1990s Madchester band Inspiral carpets. An experience, bassist Jamie, especially loved. “It was fantastic, just phenomenal experience. Right at the end, Clint Boone gave me a hat. I was like, cheers, man.”

Yet Despite such big achievements so soon, the band weren’t coy when asked of their goals and aspirations for the coming year and beyond. They spoke about how they would “Realistically, like maybe a few more, little festival, like shows and stuff” before outlining their goals to release more music and hopes for a “UK Tour” if possible.

Whatever it is Subterrania go on to achieve, it shouldn’t come as a shock to anyone. They are a group of passionate, exciting, and all-around lovely guys. Who, to top it off with, are genuinely talented musicians with a lot to offer to any crowd they find themselves performing to. For that alone we suggest you find yourself at one of their upcoming shows.

Subterrania are supporting Marseille at both their Halifax and Newcastle shows