| Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun | |
| Origin: | Cheltenham, England |
| Years Active: | 2009–2017 2019-2023 |
Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun (formerly Solemn Sun) are an English rock band from Cheltenham, England.[1]
The band members are; Jim Lockey (Guitar/ vocals), Andy Oliveri (Bass), Simon Cripps (Drums) and Chris Capewheel (Guitar / vocals)[2]
Formed as a Folk/Punk band[3] The band released their debut album 'Atlases' in June 2010[4] on istartedthefire records. The album was recorded at Steve Winwood's Wincraft Studios and produced by MPG Engineer of the year and double Grammy Award nominated producer James Towler.[5] Jim Lockey & The Solemn Sun signed to Xtra Mile Recordings in December 2011.[6] They released their second album, 'Death', produced by Peter Miles[7] on Xtra Mile in April 2012.[8] [9]
In 2012 Jim Lockey & The Solemn Sun played sets at festivals around the world as well as two UK headline tours.[10] The band has played alongside the likes of Mumford & Sons, Frank Turner, Dry the River, Johnny Flynn, Alessi's Ark and Pete Doherty,[11] with Jim rounding off 2012 opening for friend, fan[12] and label mate Frank Turner on his UK and Ireland headline tour in November/December. February 2013 saw the band playing a 5-week headline tour of the UK and a U.S run with Dropkick Murphys, followed by appearances at South by Southwest and a short European tour. They played a number of UK/EU summer festivals in 2013.[13]
In July 2014, the band announced they would be returning under the name of "Solemn Sun" and a change in musical style.[14] Jim Lockey played a selection of the Jim Lockey & The Solemn Sun's former works for what he claimed to be the last ever time[15] in an acoustic set at 2000trees.
The band released their first EP after the change in styles titled § on 13 October 2014.[16]
In early 2022 the band announced they would return as JL&TSS and a new album will be released via Xtra Mile Recordings in 2023, beginning with single 'Reno' on 12.05.23.