Hailing from Cumbria in the northwest UK, brothers Yan and Hamilton, and their schoolfriend Wood relocated to Reading and formed a band, augmented by guitarist Noble whom Yan met whilst studying at Reading University. Initially named British Air Powers, they recorded a 4-track demo before moving to Brighton. Here they renamed themselves British Sea Power after one of their demo tracks. This track was reworked and renamed 'Carrion' which became their first UK Top 40 single in 2003. That year saw the release of their debut album 'The Decline of British Sea Power' on the Rough Trade label. Their sophomore effort 'Open Season' was released in 2005 and spawned their first UK Top 20 single 'It Ended on an Oily Stage'. Three years later, in 2008, their third effort 'Do You Like Rock Music?' earned the band a coveted Mercury Music Prize nomination. The band, now a six-piece, released fourth album 'Valhall Dancehall' in early 2011.
Members:
Yan - Vocals, Guitar
Noble - Guitar
Hamilton - Bass, Vocals, Guitar
Wood - Drums
Phil Sumner - Cornet, Keyboards
Abi Fry - Viola