Count to Fire

Count to Fire

Count to Fire is an Exeter band that forms in 2006 after a meeting in a record shop. The group plays original songs that draw on early country and contemporary rock, and it develops a sound that combines alt-country elements such as guitars, violins and pedal steel with what the band’s music is described as as an unmistakable English character.

History and recordings

The band’s early work earns praise for its songwriting and leads to attention from a Canadian producer, who invites them to record their second album in 2010. That record brings BBC radio play, reviews in Uncut and a five-star review in the News of the World. The band is also compared to Mumford & Sons, although its music is identified more closely with country than folk.

Count to Fire then builds a busy live schedule and performs at several high-profile festivals in summer 2011. After a period in which the members experience changes in their personal lives, the band returns to recording in Exeter at Valvetastic Studios, where its first album is also made. Working over two years with owner and producer Joe Holroyd, the members record parts separately and gradually assemble a new set of songs. These recordings feature strong vocal harmonies and a more spacious, reflective sound centred on songwriting.

Style and reception

The band is associated with original, organic alt-country and country-rock writing rather than folk revival. Its work is described as direct and forceful, with an emphasis on melody, harmony and a live energy that carries through to its festival appearances.