Reachback

Reachback are an Essex pop punk four-piece formed in late 2008 and active from 2009 onwards. The group begins as a songwriting partnership between Tom McHenry on guitar and Ruby Williams on vocals, with Craig Chin on drums bringing an energetic, spiky-haired stage presence. After a period of searching for a settled bassist, Ruby Williams’s brother Joe Williams joins on bass, completing the line-up.

Early development and live activity

During 2009 the band spends much of its time learning and developing live, and it gains enough attention to support AttackAttack! and In Case Of Fire on UK tours. It also builds a local reputation through headline shows in East London and Essex.

Recordings and industry interest

In January 2010 Reachback signs professional management terms. Three months later the band receives a publishing and recording deal with SMG Records. In May 2010 it begins work on its debut single, Butterflies, with producer Jason Wilcock, whose credits include You Me at Six, The Blackout and We Are The Ocean. The band also works with former Abbey Road Studios producer James Horwood on other future album tracks.

Further touring and recognition

Reachback continues to gig widely in 2010, supporting acts including The View, New York Pony Club, The Automatic and British Sea Power. It also finishes as runner-up in the final week of the Redbull Bedroom Jam competition that year.