Marseille are Derby 5-piece indie rocknroll band who consist of Will Brown (vocals); Joe Labram (lead guitar) Lennon Hall (rhythm guitar); Tom Spray (drums) and Felix Moxey, (bass).
Forming in 2021, Marseille have wasted absolutely no time as ones to watch thanks to their brand of catchy indie rock anthems and scintillating live gigs that have gained fan and critical acclaim, and can count legendary DJ Steve Lamacq as a fan.
Taking influence from 60s Mersey beat and the 90s Madchester/Shoegaze scene Marseille have added their own powerful groove and sprawling melodies to become one of the most exciting bands in Britain today.
2023 has been Marseille’s best year to date. They have played an incredible 47 shows; 2 UK headline tours (including sold out shows at London’s The Water Rats; The Bunkhouse in Swansea and Dead Wax in Birmingham) 4 overseas shows (as part of live in Jersey); 1 fundraising campaign for OddBalls and 1 show for Derbyshire Mind.
So let’s review and introduce you to their 2023 releases.
Only Just Begun, is that classic Marseille sound: 60’s Mersey beats and 60s’ psychedelia, mixed in with jangly acoustic guitars and packed with glorious guitar hooks and a huge sing along chorus. I love the outro which has a nod to The Stone Roses.
Thinker was written when frontman Will was 13 and it’s a heartfelt and emotional ballad, accompanied by divine strings and wears it’s influences on its sleeve (Oasis’ The Masterplan and Cast No Shadow). Will’s vocals are melodic and emotional in places, addressing the situation of losing loved ones.
Freedom was the first EP and it showcases many different aspects of the bands style and sound. Catchy singalong rocknroll anthems, infectious guitar hooks mixed with jangle pop and a classic ballad that are captivating and exciting. It wears its influences on its sleeve, whilst remaining that sense of freshness.
This Dream Of Mine sees Marseille grow in confidence and whilst the title track is enriched in Marseille’s signature sound, by the end the EP hints at what may come in the future; sprawling psychedelia.
2023 was Marseille’s biggest and busiest year to date. They’ve laid the groundwork and it’s starting to pay dividends. With a new EP (release date to be confirmed) on the way, that will please old and new fans alike, Marseille are gearing themselves up for an unforgettable year.
To find out more about Marseille, check out the ThisIsTheMusic meets podcast.
ThisIsTheMusic Meets Marseille Podcast 2021
ThisIsTheMusic meets Marseille Podcast 2022
Marseille made a welcome return to the podcast on Wednesday 10th January to discuss their superb 2023, their plans for 2024 and their first gig of the year at Two Palms in Hackney, London on Friday 12th January. Tickets are available here.
Main photo credit: Jonathan Buck
ThisIsTheMusic 
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