Theaudience were a late 90s indie band and somewhat of a lost gem, arriving as they did in the twilight time between the end of britpop and the start of the “New Rock Revolution”. Combining a large dollop of self-aware sex appeal with light, jangly melodies this is one band worth re-discovering.
They were founded by guitarist Billy Reeves, formerly of indie group Congregation. The group were fronted by Sophie Ellis-Bextor and achieved some success with their new wave-style records. Reeves left the band in 1999 and despite the remaining band members writing new material, theaudience split soon afterwards. Bextor eventually started a solo career and had much success in major label disco music. Although their one and only album received critical acclaim, it did not sell well and was later discontinued. Bass player Kerin Smith and guitarist Billy Reeves are currently involved with the London indie pop band, Friends of the Bride.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor went on to record a number 1 UK single with Spiller - Groovejet (If this ain’t love) before embarking on her solo career. |
