Put together by award winning composer and guitarist Simon Hurts last year, this four piece, based in London are fronted by ‘Apostolos’ who you may recall from the defunct ‘Hunted By Elephants’. This six track EP was recorded live and put down in just three days by Simon, in his own Silver Feather studios. The result is very much the retro 70’s style that ‘Leadfeather’ are seeking and they wouldn’t have been out of place if they’d been around in that era.
The band have released three singles to date and the title song ‘Roll The Dice’ was the initial one. A stomp with gutsy strides, this is full of sturdy harmonies that back Apostolos and provide gospel style, to the singers incredible vocals. The talents of Mr Hurts don’t get left out either as there’s a gorgeous Gibson solo from the creator. Leaving no doubts, this man knows how to handle a guitar. Very ‘Whitesnake’ in texture and enriched with those blending strings, this is a remarkable start to the EP.
‘Roll the dice,I need your loving down the line, With your snake eyes , Sending shivers down my spine, Roll the dice, My lady luck got what it takes to make me smile’
’Silver & Feathers’ is an Instrumental and although only 94 seconds in length, its warm tones and soulful chords are a delight. Chiming and rising with intricacy before descending into more distant softness. ‘Higher’ comes in straight afterwards and we are back to the 70’s with the ‘Plant’ like screams of Apostolos and similar ‘Jimmy Page’ indulgence from Simon. The ‘Zeppelin’ effect is unmistakable, however the song carries with flair and they introduce elements from a lost age, that are seldom heard these days. The band do sight these legends as well as ‘Whitesnake’ and ‘Deep Purple’ as influences, so it’s not surprising we hear traces of ‘Coverdale’ as well on occasion. Drums from Thanos Papadopoulos and bass by Daniel Devis set the rockier theme for ’Danger Zone’ a bluesy number which hits higher in places but commits with a punching rhythm. More guitar screeching and irrepressible vocals, this is the potion ‘Leadfeather’ brew and it’s intoxicating. A stunning guitar intro on ‘Shoot For The Stars’ that sets up the track to have a loose riff and laidback manner which suits at the beginning, before it gets fried and messy midway. Chaos reigns for a few seconds, an original jam is always welcome and this is heaven sent. I’m envious of those who have already witnessed them live, especially at their debut gig in October at London’s Dublin Castle. The final song ‘Why’ is the slow hand ballad and Apostolos leans in with passionate lyrics. The EP is centred around themes such as heartbreak, misguidance, determination and hope, this last piece sums it all up with its simple title, if nothing else. Just switch off and immerse yourself in the powerful chords and precise notes of Simon Hurts, lose yourself in the emotional cries from Apostolos and you will love this band forever.
Video Shot by: George Say – Vignette Film. Produced by: Simon Hurts and Apostolos L . Edited by: Simon Hurts
‘Leadfeather’ are rolling the dice’ and they come up with double six on every track. The masterly production by Simon Hurts has captured these live performances with the taste of Heavy Rock as it should be. There’s already been a lot of praise for this band and I do have to add to it. The early 70s was a time when bands were experimenting and producing sounds that inspired those who followed and 50 years on, bands like ‘Leadfeather’ are creating an even more impressive blend.
‘Immerse yourself in the powerful chords and precise notes of Simon Hurts, lose yourself in the emotional cries from Apostolos and you will love this band forever’
HIGHLIGHTS – Roll The Dice, Danger Zone, Why.
Roll The Dice (EP)
Self release Indian Summer Records
Release: 14 February 2025
Track List – 1. Roll The Dice. 2. Silver & Feathers (Instrumental). 3. Higher. 4. Danger Zone. 5. Shoot For The Stars. 6. Why
Leadfeather Are – Lead vocals – Apostolos . Lead guitar – Simon Hurts. Bass – Daniel Devis. Drums – Thanos Papadopulous
Keep up to date with news of the EP release etc on the links below –
Official website: https://www.leadfeatherrocks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leadfeatherrocks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadfeatherrocks
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadfeatherrocks
Thanks to Rob at STAMPEDE PRESS
