The Misers

The Misers

The Misers are a UK americana, country, folk and rock group that begins in Worcester, where Neil Ivison, who sings and plays guitar, and Adam Barry, who plays keyboards and sings, meet at college and start writing and performing together. The band forms in 2009 and remains active.

Style and early development

Their sound draws on the rawness of early Creedence Clearwater Revival records and the storytelling approach associated with Ian Hunter. Neil Ivison’s voice is described as soulful and passionate, and the group’s songs focus on narrative writing, with characters and situations presented in a way that invites closer listening.

Release and recording work

The Misers record their debut album, Amplified Life Stories, to quarter-inch analogue tape in 10 days at Rockfield Studios in Monmouth. Tom Oliver and Ian Morgan produce the album, and Matt Butler mixes it. The record is described as connecting with the spirit of Johnny Cash, the pop sensibility of The Jayhawks and the confessional Americana of Ryan Adams.

Chart success and live work

The band quickly gains attention through live performances and online activity, building support largely through word of mouth. Tracks on the group’s official website receive strong responses, and the band reaches number one on the Myspace UK Americana and Country charts. The download-only single “Back In Your Arms” tops the Unsigned Chart for three consecutive weeks. The Misers move from small local bar shows to support slots with Ocean Colour Scene, The Proclaimers and Proud Mary, and they also play television appearances on ITV Wales’ The Wales Show and SkyArtsHD’s The Book Show At Hay.

Touring and reception

The Misers complete a sold-out UK tour with The Proclaimers, adding to their growing audience. Janice Long on BBC Radio 2 is among the group’s notable supporters, and the band’s early profile is built through live reputation, chart performance and coverage around Amplified Life Stories.