Not strumming but humming tricky bits

Lytham Festival first timers Humming Birds love Americana music but aren't big on the '˜intricate music bits'.
The HummingbirdsThe Hummingbirds
The Hummingbirds

“So we just hum,” says Richard Smith, guitarist-backing vocals. “We’re not the most technically gifted musicians!”

Well, it’s worked wonders for Status Quo for decades.

The band play Stage Too at Lytham Festival on Wednesday August 3.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

They released their debut album earlier this year after the success of EP After the Rain and three singles since and begin a two month festival tour in September . Lytham Festival is a taste of things to come.

They have been together around five years but mates for far longer.

The indie band has an Americana acoustic twist - with hums! - and recently had two sell out nights in London and Liverpool before heading on the circuit. They wowed crowds at the Pier Head’s maritime festival.

Lytham’s effectively a local gig for a band going places. “Signing with Absolute Records was the turning point for us - it’s nice to know we’ve got others batting for us now,” adds Michael.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Merseysiders are nothing if not melodious and the Humming Birds are winning a big following with influences ranging from The Beatles and Gerry and the Pacemakers through Byrds-style Americana to contemporary sounds.

“A lot of good stuff is coming out of Liverpool right now,” adds Michael . “There’s always a bit of rivalry with Manchester but we’re ahead of the game, I think.”

The festival’s a far cry from the basement bar gig they did on an open mic session years ago but it was part of the learning curve for the five piece : Jamie Davies, Michael Kounis, Matty Brougham, Ryan Lewis and Richard Smith.

“Liverpool’s a very musical city and growing up as a teenager there’s a big influence on everyone playing musical instruments and what you hear us play reflects that heritage really,” adds Richard.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It’s great that so many are breaking out and making it big - just look at the success of the Wombats.

“Best of all, people are now singing our songs which is the greatest compliment a band can be paid. “Particularly when they’re singing right along with us.” Or humming...

Related topics: