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Black Country, New Road
Black Country, New Road is an English rock band formed in London in 2018. Emerging from the experimental music scene surrounding The Windmill pub in Brixton, the group quickly garnered attention for their genre-defying sound that blends elements of post-punk, jazz, klezmer, and progressive rock. The band's original lineup featured Isaac Wood (vocals, guitar), Luke Mark (guitar), May Kershaw (keyboard), Georgia Ellery (violin), Tyler Hyde (bass), Charlie Wayne (drums), and Lewis Evans (saxophone). Their debut album, *For the First Time*, was released in February 2021 to widespread critical acclaim. The record included reworked versions of previously released singles and showcased the band's sprawling compositions and intricate arrangements, earning them a Mercury Prize nomination. In February 2022, shortly before the release of their second album, *Ants From Up There*, lead vocalist Isaac Wood announced his departure from the band due to mental health concerns. Despite the change, the remaining members chose to continue making music, sharing vocal duties among themselves and performing entirely new material going forward. *Ants From Up There* was released to great praise, with many critics lauding it as a bold and emotional high point for the band. Its mix of orchestral arrangements, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic songwriting solidified Black Country, New Road’s status as one of the most innovative bands of their generation. Following Wood's departure, the group embarked on a new phase, debuting fresh material during live performances and continuing to evolve their sound. In 2023, they released *Live at Bush Hall*, a live album and concert film featuring their new lineup and showcasing their continued artistic reinvention. Black Country, New Road is known for pushing musical boundaries, incorporating diverse influences, and maintaining a fiercely collaborative spirit that has kept them at the forefront of modern experimental rock.