Swiss Lips

Swiss Lips are a British electropop group from Manchester, originally active from 2011 and formerly known as Ten Bears. They are a five-piece band, and their sound combines indie dance and electronic influences with a strong connection to the Manchester music scene. The group describe themselves as “pop sorcerers” and say they aim to continue the city’s tradition of combining guitar music and dance music.

Formation and style

Swiss Lips form in Manchester in 2011. Their music draws on a broad mix of influences, including Prince, Sebastian, Def Leppard, The Weeknd, The Beach Boys and Joe Goddard. They are described as playing an eclectic style that recalls the indie dance scene of the 1980s and 1990s.

Record deal and early profile

At the end of 2011, Swiss Lips sign a four-album deal with Epic Sony. Soon after, they become BBC Radio 1’s Introducing act, with their debut track “U Got the Power” played daily for a week. They also appear on Channel 4’s 4play, performing “U Got the Power”, “Books” and “Danz”.

Releases

The band’s debut single, “U Got the Power”, becomes their best-known track and develops a cult following online. In January 2013 they release a free cover of Frank Ocean’s “Lost”, which gains significant attention on YouTube. Their first official single, “Danz”, follows in February 2013 and receives radio support from BBC Radio 1. The track “U Got the Power” is later remixed by Silverclub, Monsieur Adi and Bastille.

Live work and touring

Swiss Lips play festivals and shows including Camden Crawl, The Great Escape, Dot to Dot Festival, Lovebox Festival and Live at Leeds in 2012. They support Bastille on nine dates of a sold-out UK tour, including a show at Koko in Camden, and later tour with Ladyhawke on her Blue Eyes UK tour. In February 2013 they also join Neon Trees for dates in Manchester, Glasgow and London.

Manchester and The Union

In November 2012, the band moves from Manchester to The Union in East London for a month. During that period they hold free gigs for fans and are joined by Bastille, The Horrors, Seasfire, DJ Mr Paul, Lois & The Love, YADi and Fenech-Soler.

Split

Swiss Lips announce their split in August 2015, saying that the realities of being a small band become difficult. After that, the members are believed to work on separate projects.