Sweet Sweet Lies

Sweet Sweet Lies

Sweet Sweet Lies are a Brighton-based band with a sound that combines post-punk, indie rock and folk elements with electrocoustic instrumental textures, ironic and bittersweet vocals, and influences from blackhearted country and Brighton’s retro rockabilly scene. Their music is described as dark, rustic and angry, but with subtle traces of hope and irony, and with soft melodies that can sound simpler than they are. The group are rock-oriented at heart, but they do not fit neatly into one style.

Background and scene

The band is based in Brighton and is strongly associated with the city’s live alternative music scene, where it has been popular for many years. It has also developed links with the Brighton Institute of Modern Music, from which the members graduate, and it remains connected with the school.

Sweet Sweet Lies are also known for being approachable with audiences and making time to speak with fans. Their style and presentation are described as witty, debonair and daring.

Line-up

The group’s line-up changes over time, but permanent members include Dominic Von Trapp and Michael “Blind Mick” Hayes on guitars and vocals, alongside drummer Moez. Von Trapp provides spiky lead vocals and kazoo solos, Hayes is the other fixed guitarist and vocalist, and Moez contributes to the percussion by alternating between a conventional drum kit and a cajon.

Recording history

In 2008, Sweet Sweet Lies record an album and release iTunes singles before parting ways with their label. Their catalogue and later activity are tied to that period of recording and release.