Wed, Feb 17 2010

Written by:Chris Ecclestone

Silent Alliance are a six piece from London who create a unique mix of guitar-driven dance pop. Formed by vocalist Phillip Ybring and guitarist/vocalist Tom Kirkam after a rooftop meeting and a conversation about the genius of Brian Ferry. The pair soon went about recruiting the rest of the band Lewis Kirkham on synths, guitarist Alex Geddes, bassist Rhys Downing and Giles Taylor. Drawing inspiration from some of the greatest innovators of the pop genre Silent Alliance have shaped a sound that will ingnite dancefloors.

Once Silent Alliance hit the live scene they soon established themselves as one of London's top live acts with their energetic live performances. With the buzz surrounding the band building they entered the studio and released their debut album 'The Spirit Of An Age To Come' in 2008. Their record has gained them interest across the globe with international releases and an impressive lead single 'Cities On Fire' make Silent Alliance one to watch.

Who are you and where are you from?
"We are Silent Alliance and we're from London. There are six of us - playing guitars, synths, lots of vocals. The sound is big, melodic and immediate... it's pop with substance: hit material, but still meaningful and real."

What inspires you?
"Pop music mainly, but anything that's rich and intelligent really. We listen to bands like Depeche Mode, New Order, Springsteen, Kate Bush, Psychedelic Furs, Mew, Prince etc. but chances are we'll be open to it if it has a catchy chorus."

What have you done?
"We've put out our debut album ‘The Spirit of an Age to Come' in Japan on Fastcut Records, and in the Philippines on Universal Records. In the UK we've gigged steadily over the past two years and we're currently recording a new record in London. Oh, and we've made a lot of people dance."

What makes you stand out?
"I'd say the live show. When we started, we saw far too many live indie bands that really lacked energy and enthusiasm - they were too busy trying to look cool instead of bothering to make the audience care about the music.

When we play, we move and dance and give it our all, and we encourage the crowd to get involved and let go of their inhibitions just for a while. I think that's so central to what this band is about. We try to make music that speaks directly to people's emotions - that resonates with their happiness and sorrows, hopes and dreams. I think the industry is crying out right now for some new bands that people can actually believe in."

Where are you going?
"The year ahead looks good - we'll finish our record and get out on the road. We've already a few big summer shows lined up in Oxford and London, and there'll be more on the way. Ultimately, we want to play to more people and really get our name out there. The world seems to be listening to and engaging with pop music once more, so it feels like the time is right for us."

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