Interview: The Warrens

The Warrens are an extremely new band on the scene, having a cool indie rock sound that harks back to the heydey of the noughties scene. We had the chance to review their song, Can You Hear Me, recently – I liked the track so much I wanted to chat more with the band!

By Jane Howkins

You recently released a track titled Can You Hear Me, which we reviewed. What can you tell us about the song?

It’s a song written for our friend who we sadly lost in 2019. It’s a tribute to him basically. Saying what we wish we could’ve said if we had the chance and remembering things he did and taught us. We’re really proud of this single because it means so much to us so thank you for the lovely review.

How has the reception been so far, and where can Can You Hear Me be purchased?

We are overwhelmed with the support we’ve received, especially this time round with CHYM. From having pretty much nothing on streaming platforms earlier this year, we were shocked at how many people listened and featured us on their playlists. You can stream or purchase the single at all the usual places – Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, etc.

You released your debut single, Merry Go, in September. What can you tell us about that track and how was it to release your first ever single?

We got great feedback, considering it was our first release, from our local area especially. We’ve been a band since 2018 so just getting something original of ours officially out there felt amazing. It really gave us the push to keep going and get more of our tracks ready for release.

Do you have any more singles planned for release soon?

We do! We plan to release the next single in early 2023 and have been working with a Hartlepool production company called MAAD Productions to make a music video to go along with it. The girls are so talented and the last one turned out amazing so we can’t wait.

Are there any plans to release a full-length album or EP anytime soon?

Hopefully 2023 is going to be the year to get our debut album out. It’s looking like a 10 track album. We’ve been working on these tracks for quite some time so we’re really excited to finally get them out there and for other people to hear them. We’re so proud of everyone who worked with us to put it together as well, so it’ll be nice to finally have something to show for it.

Has the pandemic hindered your work much?

It affected us in stages. At the beginning we were due in the studio to record our album. Then that got pushed back a few times with us going in and out of lockdown. So we decided to just pause production completely until we knew what was happening. Then all seemed good for a while and we started gigging again but a few of our gigs had to be cancelled/rescheduled because of people inside and out of the band testing positive. We think there’s a right time for everything though and we are happy that the singles came out when/the way they did.

Your music has an indie rock sound. What/who influences you most as artists? What have you been listening to recently?

Between the 4 of us in the band the influences are quite diverse. We all love a lot of different artists but I think we can agree on the Beatles being a big influence on all of our individual styles. As a collective we always look to the likes of Pixies, The Strokes and The Cure.

Where are you based? What is the music scene like in your part of the world?

We’re based in Hartlepool, Teeside, in England and we think we’re quite lucky to have a music scene that’s quite inclusive and supportive especially since it’s only a relatively small area. There’s always someone willing to give you a helping hand if you need it!

Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?

We’ve not had much lined up lately as our drummer has just recovered from a broken ankle (cursed) but we know we’re playing The Boxing Day Big One this year in The Studio in Hartlepool. We’ve played it a few years in a row now and it’s one of the best gigs of the year in our opinion. It’s such a good night and there’s always an amazing line up of local musicians sharing the stage.

Any last words for the fans?

Thank you all for your ongoing support and we appreciate the patience from the ones that have been there from the start. Stick about because we have some big things coming!
Thank you again!