The Virginmarys

The Virginmarys are a hard rock group from Macclesfield. Their sound combines the dynamics of grunge, with references to Nirvana, Mudhoney and Screaming Trees, with punk energy and the detail and directness of early 1970s British rock. The group also draws on alternative rock influences, including Elbow and Arcade Fire.

Formation and style

The band is built around playing live and in rehearsal, and it records with that approach in mind. Its debut album, King Of Conflict, is recorded live in the studio, with Toby Jepson producing and Chris Sheldon handling the mix. The group’s songs are described as hard-hitting but considered, with lyrics that address real-life issues rather than empty rock imagery.

Members and influences

The Virginmarys are a trio made up of Ally, Matt and Danny. Ally learns to play through a local blues musician and grows up listening to Fleetwood Mac, Free and The Allman Brothers Band at home, before discovering Nirvana and then moving backwards into punk and forward into later alternative rock. Ally also writes the lyrics. The band’s writing includes songs about personal mistakes, domestic violence from a male-victim perspective, and anti-capitalism, including Dead Man’s Shoes, Portrait Of Red and You’ve Got Your Money.

Career and recognition

Before the debut album, the group spends three years touring and releasing a series of self-issued EPs. It builds support from artists including Slash, We Are Scientists, Eagles Of Death Metal and Ash, all of whom invite the band to support them. The Virginmarys also appear on BBC Breakfast, earn iTunes single of the week in both the UK and US, have a track included in Rock Band 3, and sell out London’s Garage as part of HMV’s Next Big Thing series.

Label

The Virginmarys release music on Three Hearts Limited.