With a flair for the nostalgic and a knack for writing irrefutable ear-worms, Brighton-based five piece Trip Westerns are a truly unique band. Despite looking like townsfolk from the wild west, their music is a blend of surf rock, psychedelia and mid twentieth century rock n’ roll. We caught up vocalist/guitarist Harrison Baird-Whitman following the release of the band’s latest single False Start.
Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself and your band.
Howdy! I’m Harrison and I sing and play the guitar and harmonica in Trip Westerns. We’re five piece band, formed and based in the city of Brighton, and play rock n roll music.
How did the band form and how long have you been together?
We formed about three years ago when myself and our ex-guitar man Dee were wanting to get a new project together after the lockdowns. I’d seen Ellis drum in his old band and was pretty set on having him behind the kit. Luci (guitar/organ/percussion) and I had been jumping in each other’s projects for a while, so he naturally came to be a part of the band. After a revolving door of bassists we finally got our friend Graham slapping the low notes, then when Dee left it made sense to replace with him with our buddy Rhys and we’ve been happily married in this line-up for just over a year.
Can you remember the first time you realized you wanted to make music?
Not really. It’s something I’ve been doing in some form or another, whether good or bad since I could walk and talk. My Dad’s one hell of a drummer, so I grew up around him constantly tapping on something and music was a big part of our weekend commutes. I think my mama buying me an acoustic guitar from a car boot sale was the point in which I started to take music a little more seriously, learning how to play, sing and construct a song.
Who and what are the band’s main influences?
Damn, we all listen to pretty varied stuff between us and therefore it’s a bit of melting pot. I’d say the bands predominately influenced by music from the mid-century, whether that be country, rock, blues, folk plus some modern garage/psych.
What do you aim to achieve as a band?
We want to be the Amazon of music! The size and reputation of a Taylor Swift type figure (only with five us) or we would happily settle for breaking out and touring the United States together. Either/or!
For those who are yet to see you live, what can they expect from a Trip Westerns show?
A whole lot of smiles and high-fiving! We like to have fun onstage and like to bring that energy to those in the crowd. Expect to have a great time!
What’s next for Trip Westerns?
We got some exciting bits and bobs coming down the road. More music and tours basically! However, when and what these things are shall be released further on down the aforementioned road. What I can say for sure though, is that we have an album in the works for next year so keep an eye out for that.
Trip Westerns‘ latest single False Start is available to stream HERE.
