Sian Alice Group

Sian Alice Group is a London-based experimental indie group active from 2006 to 2011. The band forms around vocalist Sian Ahern and multi-instrumentalists Rupert Clervaux and Ben Crook, with Sasha Vine later added on violin and piano. Eben Bull and Mike Bones join the line-up during the period around the debut album, bringing the group to six members.

Formation and early activity

Clervaux and Crook work in London for several years in parallel projects before collaborating with Ahern to form the group in late 2006. Clervaux works as a producer and engineer, including with J. Spaceman, Alexis Taylor, Spring Heel Jack and Treader records, while Crook records under the name 40,000 Ghosts. The group plays its first live show in Copenhagen in early 2007, then opens for Spiritualized in the UK and follows with shows in the United States.

Sound and approach

The group uses an experimental songwriting style that draws on rock, modern classical, soul, improvisation, free jazz and dance. Its sound combines orchestral elements with a rock base, and Ahern’s voice is central to its identity. The music is also shaped by studio improvisation and a mix of traditional songwriting with more abstract instrumental composition.

Releases

Sian Alice Group releases the 7-inch Nightsong on The Social Registry in summer 2007. The debut album 59.59 is completed during the rest of 2007 and appears first in North America in February 2008, then in the UK in May 2008. The album runs as a continuous, free-flowing sequence of songs and instrumental sections, and includes contributions from Douglas Hart of The Jesus & Mary Chain, John Coxon of Spring Heel Jack and Brian DeGraw of Gang Gang Dance.

A four-track EP, The Dusk Line, follows in June 2008. It is recorded during the 59.59 sessions and consists of piano-and-vocal material, showing a more restrained side of the group. A remix EP is also planned to feature Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip, Spring Heel Jack, Brian DeGraw and Atlas Sound.

Reception and touring

The group supports 59.59 with a US tour and also tours with Spiritualized and The Black Angels. The album receives strong reviews from NME, All Music Guide and Pitchfork, which describe it in terms that highlight its breadth, unusual mix of styles and experimental character.

End of the group

Sian Alice Group splits at the end of 2011.