Felix Champion is a DJ from Montréal, Canada, born in 1969, who is associated with Bonsound.

Overview

Felix Champion forms in 2011 with Ross Balsillie, Andy Brown and Michael Clark. The act starts as a three-piece and later moves operations from Fife to Glasgow. A further guitarist, Dave Rees, joins at the start of 2013 to expand the band’s creative range and develop the sound already in place.

Releases and recording

With the revised line-up, Felix Champion completes a self-titled debut EP. The band also releases the single “New York Minute” in July 2013, followed by the self-titled EP in August 2013. “New York Minute” receives repeated play on BBC Introducing and appears on the Vic Galloway “Introducing Scotland” podcast.

Live work and reception

Felix Champion builds a local reputation for uncompromising live performances, intelligent songwriting and heavy riffs balanced with catchy hooks. The group plays support slots for Scottish acts including Carnivores, Make Sparks and LightGuides, and later opens for More Than Conquerors, Former Monarchs and PAWS. It also tours in Scotland with Two Glass Eyes and Penguins Kill Polar Bears.

Style and comparisons

The band’s live shows and recorded material combine hardcore intensity with sing-along choruses. Their sound draws comparisons with post-hardcore acts such as Reuben, Funeral for a Friend, early Biffy Clyro, Pulled Apart by Horses and Fightstar.

Responses

The release of “New York Minute” attracts positive reactions from bloggers, fellow musicians, promoters and broadcasters, including comments from Ally McCrae and Jen Long of BBC Radio 1.