Interview With Pvriah

Our Band By Pvriah

How did the band start?

We first started in 2023, when Lewis and Sam who had known each other via the local music scene for many years previously, finally managed to get a project going together after being prevented by the impact of Covid. We put out an ad for a bass player and were quickly joined by Matt who completed our lineup.

Who were the first members?

The three original musketeers were Lewis Larkman (guitars, co-lead vocals), Sam Wood (drums), Matthew Harris (bass, co-lead vocals).

How did you all meet?

Lewis and Sam came to know each other while they were in separate bands in the local scene. Sam deputised as drummer in Lewis' band for a gig and they quickly realised that they should start their own band together, due to their mutual musical interests in all things heavy and doomy. We met Matt when he responded to our ad for a bass player.

What was the first practice like?

Really natural. We really quickly understood each other; musical styles and inclinations, and it felt easy to jam together and create something that sounded good.

Where was your first gig and how did it go?

Our first show was in our home city of Swansea, in a venue called Roadies Rocktail Bar. We were raring to go and make a statement, playing our music for the first time in public. We had a great turnout and response, and knew we had established a good foundation to build upon.

What was it like the first time you recorded a single/EP/album?

We self-recorded our debut EP shortly after our lineup was completed. We had been sitting on ideas individually for some time, and the songs quickly came together. All instruments and vocals were recorded in our rehearsal space, and a couple evenings a week spent mixing/mastering meant we had it done quite quickly and lined up for release.

What has been the biggest and best moments of the band?

Our best moments are absolutely performing live. We feel this is where we thrive and are able to deliver our tracks with energy and passion.

What has been the lowest and worst moments of the bands?

Probably when we were looking for a bass player to complete the band. Being in that limbo where you are itching to get the music out there but can't due to lack of an essential musical piece is difficult.

What is it like playing on a stage to fans?

Amazing, you can't beat an energetic crowd and band feeding off each other. Seeing people into your music is a great feeling and it gives us the inspiration to keep making the best music we can.

How does it feel when people tell you they are a fan of yours?

It gives us a real high to know that people have heard us and enjoyed our material enough to add it to their playlists, tell their friends, grab some merch etc.

What is the process of writing new music?

It is usually a conglomeration of ideas from us all, which we compile based on what flows into what, trying to get a feel for the song and letting it guide us, rather than forcing ideas together just for the sake of completing the track. Lyrics then usually come afterwards based on what the music makes us feel. For example, the inspiration behind our new single Mammoth Stomp came from us listening to the music, and Sam remarking that it sounded like a big mammoth stomping around!

Do you have a band ritual before you go on stage?

We don't really have any set ritual as such. Maybe a pint together to settle any nerves!

Other than the instruments you play, do each of you have specific jobs in the band? ie, who arranges gigs, who runs the social media profiles, who sorts merch, etc. We usually do these as a group effort. One of us might be in work, so the others will reply to any gig offers, one of us might sort CDs and another Tshirts.