Introducing #143 - RAE
Let us introduce you to new Leeds powerhouse rockers RAE - who have just released their debut track ‘Never Meant To Start A Witch Hunt’. Originally named Ørmstons, the band left their indie-pop ways behind them and have come back with a new rebellious attitude - taking influence from the likes of Marmozets and Yonaka. We had a chat with the band about this new change in direction.
So, you were originally called Ørmstons, but changed your name back in January - along with a fresh new sound. What led to that?
Ørmstons started back when we were in college and I think we learnt a hell of a lot about who we wanted to be in that time. With Ørmstons it felt like we we’re chained down and stuck so we decided that going under a new name would be a fresh start for us, plus no one could ever manage to say or spell Ørmstons correctly!
Does the name RAE hold any meaning to you?
Not particularly. It was actually the first name that I mentioned to the band, it just seemed to fit the mood at that time with new beginnings!
How did you all meet?
I met Bob at college and then we met Will and Jamie just through the local music scene.
The debut track ‘ Never Meant To Start A Witch Hunt’ is out now, can you tell us what the track is about?
We wrote it just after I finally got myself out of a situation that wasn’t doing me any good. The song is about someone that don’t realise that their actions have consequences and expects people to have their backs no matter what, even when they are in the wrong. It takes time to realise that you are wrapped around someones finger and allowing them to get away with things that they shouldn’t, but at some point you will click that enough is enough and remove yourself from that situation.
You are based in Leeds, what is the city famous for? Where do you go for adventures? And where sells the cheapest or best pint?
As a band, we love Brudenell Social Club! 9 times out of 10 every single writing session or practice ends with ‘Shall we go to Brude?’
What would you say are your key influences as a band when it comes to your sound?
I always find this question so hard. When we first started writing the new music we had an the thought of being Yonaka and Marmozets love child.