Rebellion Unleashed: SLOBHEADS Ignite the West London Punk Scene

In the dimly lit corner of a small rehearsal space in West London, a storm is brewing. Slobheads, the self-proclaimed “worst band ever,” are making a raucous noise that is both rebellious and captivating. Comprised of Harry Jarvis on guitar and Macey Sherman on drums, this duo is carving their own path in the punk music scene, one raw and unapologetic riff at a time.

Harry and Macey’s journey began on the streets of London, where a chance encounter while skateboarding led to a friendship fueled by a shared passion for music. “We both met while skateboarding up in London. Macey was wearing a Bad Brains t-shirt and we got talking about music and that and became good mates,” Harry recalls with a smirk. “After talking, we found out we both played instruments as well, so we decided to start the worst band ever.”

Hailing from West London and Surrey, these two musicians had dabbled in punk bands before, although nothing too serious. “We were both in punk bands before just jamming with mates,” admits Macey. It was their mutual desire to create something genuine and unpretentious that sparked the birth of Slobheads.

But what about the name? Slobheads might not conjure up images of punk rock rebellion, but for Harry and Macey, it’s a badge of honor. “We pretty much just settled on the first thing that came into our heads and we found it funny,” Harry explains. “We both got it tattooed on our legs at our mate’s house, and it’s stuck ever since. Who wants a cool band name anyway?”

Slobheads embrace a collaborative approach. “We both contribute to the songwriting process,” Macey reveals. “We get in a rehearsal room together, then start jamming and run with what we like the sound of really.” Their latest single, “Andy’s Got A Gun,” is a prime example of their creative synergy, delving into the gritty tales of their friend Andy’s life of crime.

The band draws inspiration from a vast range of musical influences. “The list is infinite. Mostly late ’70s and ’80s punk and hardcore,” Harry explains. “I listen to a lot of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, while Macey listens to all genres of music from funk and disco to country and blues. It’s not exclusively punk.” This diverse musical palette adds depth and unpredictability to their sound, setting them apart from their peers.

While Slobheads have yet to embark on a full-scale tour, they have their sights set on expanding their reach beyond London. “No tours booked yet, but mainly focusing on getting the gigs in places outside of London,” Harry states. The band is also hard at work on a new single set to be released at the end of the year, promising more of their signature raw energy and infectious hooks.

Reflecting on their hometown scene, Slobheads credit their roots for shaping their identity as a band. “We played our first-ever show in our hometown at The Fighting Cocks in Kingston,” recalls Macey. “All our mates and the local skate scene and that come down when we play, and they always blow the roof off and show their support. Can’t beat a hometown gig.”

When asked to recommend some bands from their music scene, Slobheads shower praise on their fellow musicians. “Skum, Electric Cowboy Club, Mofgy, Monakis, Mummy, Clobber, GYB. Bigups the homies,” Harry exclaims. The camaraderie and mutual support within the scene highlight the vibrant and thriving nature of West London’s punk community.

Slobheads proudly stand as a reminder that sometimes it’s the raw, unfiltered chaos that truly captures the spirit of punk rock. So, strap on your seatbelts and prepare for a wild ride, because they are here to make a whole lot of noise, and they’re not apologising for it.

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