Colt 45

Colt 45 is a Swedish rock band from Örebro. The group forms in 2009 in Workington, Cumbria, after Neil Harper and Gareth Jenkins play in several other local bands. Adam Lewis later joins on drums, turning the group into a three-piece. The band line-up is Neil Harper on guitar and vocals, Gareth Jenkins on bass guitar, and Adam Lewis on drums.

Sound and influences

Colt 45 play an anthemic punk-rock style with a strong live emphasis. Their music draws on a wide range of rock and punk influences, including Manic Street Preachers, Alkaline Trio, Fugazi, The Gaslight Anthem, Brand New, Rise Against, Million Dead, Gang of Four and At The Drive In. Their early releases also draw comparisons with The Gaslight Anthem, Rise Against, The Menzingers, early Manic Street Preachers and Hundred Reasons.

Releases and recording

The band release two self-issued EPs and work with producer Romesh Dodangoda, who has also worked with Funeral For A Friend, Kids In Glass Houses, The Blackout and Twin Atlantic. Their debut EP, Chasing Yesterday, appears in 2011. Their later EP, Inside The Triangle, appears in November 2012 and receives favourable notices from Punkitastic, Kerrang! and Rock Sound. These comments describe the band as a serious new UK rock act, with strong tunes and clear potential for a full-length album.

Live activity

Colt 45 build a local following through early shows in Cumbria, then tour extensively around the UK. They develop a reputation in the UK underground punk rock community through a DIY approach and frequent touring. Their live schedule includes club and festival dates across the country, and they support acts including Funeral For A Friend, Gallows, The Computers, Lower Than Atlantis, The Subways, Young Guns and Fun Lovin’ Criminals. They also tour with Electric River as part of the Big Cheese Magazine Tour 2013.

Career outlook

The band continue to write and record material for a debut album, with the stated aim of keeping active on the road and releasing an album they can stand behind.