“The world seemed a much better place to be as I left the Academy and that, I guess, sums up the Twang really.”
— Backseat Mafia
Formed 2004 in Birmingham comprising of vocalist Phil Etheridge, bassist Jon Watkin, guitarist Stu Hartland and drummer ‘Grandmaster’ Ash Sheehan, The Twang are one of the seminal indie bands of the mid 00’s.
The first single 'Wide Awake’ was released in March 2007 followed by ‘Either Way’ reaching number eight a few weeks later. Industry wide critical acclaim followed when the band were awarded the NME's Philip Hall Radar award.
Debut album 'Love It When I Feel Like This' was released on the 4th of June 2007 with the album reaching Number 3 in the UK charts and has gone on to reach platinum certification by the Official UK Charts.
In the years following the band have released a total of 5 studio albums alongside a greatest hits and B-sides compilation - spawning fan favourite singles such as ‘Barney Rubble’, ‘We’re a Crowd’ and ‘Everytime’.
Beyond the studio recordings, The Twang's reputation as a must-see live act has solidified their status as one of the UK's most beloved indie bands. The shows are legendary for their high energy and the connection they forge with their die-hard loyal following.
As they continue to carve their path in the indie music landscape, The Twang's legacy as trailblazers of British indie rock is firmly cemented, promising an exciting journey ahead for both the band and their devoted fans.

Photography | Greg McMurray 2023

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • RADIO 1 A LIST BEFORE BEING SIGNED WITH SINGLE ‘WIDE AWAKE’

  • NME PHILIP HALL RADAR AWARD WINNERS

  • GLASTONBURY JOHN PEEL STAGE HEADLINE SLOT 2007

  • DEBUT ALBUM CHARTED #3 - NOW CERTIFIED PLATINUM

  • BRIXTON ACADEMY SELL OUT HEADLINE SHOW

  • V FESTIVAL HEADLINE SLOT 2009

  • ‘EITHER WAY’ MOST PLAYED TRACK ON RADIO 1

  • TWO TOP 20 UK ALBUMS

  • CHOSEN TO REOPEN THE BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY 2009

  • SELLING OUT ACADEMY SIZED VENUES YOY

  • HIGH PROFILE SUPPORTS FOR JAMES, SHED SEVEN, THE CORAL, OCEAN COLOUR SCENE, KASABIAN, KAISER CHIEFS

“Etheridge is a superb frontman and clearly loves what he does, but it is his ability to connect with fans which makes The Twang’s gigs so special.”
— The Yorkshire Post
“To me, these guys are a National Treasure.”
— Clint Boon
“Every single person in the audience stood up, arm in arm, singing and dancing along to a moment of pure joy.”
— Discovery Music Scotland
“With such a range of musical styles on display, The Twang reminded Manchester just how brilliant they are at live shows.”
— When The Horn Blows
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