Best Boy Grip

Best Boy Grip

Best Boy Grip is a group from Derry, United Kingdom, active since 2011. The act centres on Elma Orkestra, who is the voice behind the project. The bio also identifies the performer as Eoin O'Callaghan and describes Best Boy Grip as a singer-songwriter project from Derry, Northern Ireland.

Releases and style

Best Boy Grip’s debut EP, Barbara, is released to critical acclaim. The project is described as making large-sounding pop songs built around piano, with an emphasis on melody, directness and a literate approach to songwriting. The material is also associated with “alarming surprises” and a warm, inviting performance style.

Performances and radio play

Best Boy Grip supports Pete Doherty at the Nerve Center in Derry, and also supports Bronagh Gallagher and her band at Whelan’s in Dublin and at OhYeah in Belfast. The act receives airplay on BBC Introducing on Radio 1, BBC Across The Line, BBC Electric Mainline, BBC Gerry Anderson, BBC Mark Patterson and Belfast’s Blast 106.

Critical response

Coverage describes the project as original and melodic, with praise for its songwriting, piano-based arrangements and voice. Reviews compare the work to Neil Hannon and characterise Barbara as an inviting and memorable EP.