Solar Sympathy returned to the site of their first live performance at the Latest Music Bar in Kemp Town, Brighton last Thursday.
Comprised of siblings Gemma, 28, and Matt Roberts, 26, the Brighton-based acoustic outfit were opening for another local band, Jo-Jo and the Go Cats.
The brother and sister duo played their first gig in the Latest Music Bar earlier this year, and described it as ‘the most uplifting…amazing experience ever.’
Solar Sympathy describe their music as ‘indie soul that mixes a raw acoustic sound with soulful vocals.’ Gemma, who works for a charity organisation, said: ‘I love the acoustic sound that we generate now. I think it’s a kind of a real raw sound; it’s just me and Matt, nothing else.’
The pair took to stage amidst great support and excitement from the audience, which consisted of friends, family and local Brighton residents. The atmospheric and stylish venue of the Latest Music Bar, which boasts Amy Winehouse, Herbie Flowers and The Kooks as past performers, proved to be an ideal backdrop to their haunting vocals.
The performance included a mixture of cover songs, such as Blower’s Daughter by Damien Rice, along with original songs written by both. With Gemma usually on vocals and Matt on guitar, the night also saw Matt, who is a teacher, singing one of his own songs, Cards.
The pair cited artists ranging from Joni Mitchell, Alanis Morissette and Eva Cassidy to Incubus, The Beatles and Red Hot Chilli Peppers as their influences. They also expressed a wish to perform in larger venues in London in the future, as well as expanding as a band.
The band have also recently produced their first self-recorded album, titled Albert’s Last Stand, which can be available by contacting them at solarsympathy@hotmail.co.uk
Solar Sympathy by Kashfia
