CLASSIC ROCK AND POP
THE USUALS
The Usuals are a 5 piece rock and pop covers band. As well as “the usual” tracks we try and play classic songs that speak to the audience. Formed in 1995 and with three of the original members still in the band we are a happy group of friends who simply enjoy playing music.
30
YEARS
300+
SONGS
3000+
AUDIENCE
Bass Guitar and Backing Vocals
Joe
- What’s your Usual?
Americano with a double shot. Carpe Diem! I am rather partial to a cold glass of Peroni too.
- When did you join the band and why?
Back in the summer of ’95! Nigel invited me jam one evening at the Lancaster musician’s co-op. I immediately became addicted to Geoff’s inspirational guitar solos and the friendly atmosphere the band created.
- What’s your role in the band?
Bass guitar and a bit of backing vocals… plus stage lighting, roadie and electrical certification!
- What are your musical influences?
I love a range of music, but mostly rock based groups… let’s just say my kids grew up with the Gruffalo, James Hetfield and Dave Grohl in roughly equal measures.
- What’s your favourite Usuals gig and why?
I always enjoyed the lively reception at our regular Lancaster University gigs, but I think my favourites are the outdoor festivals we play. Sunshine, Sangria and way too many bubble machines – a perfect day!
Lead Guitar and Vocals
Geoff
- What’s your Usual?
Stout and tequila half-and-half with a bromide chaser… or an oj!
- When did you join the band and why?
Joined right from start – but I can’t remember when that was – 1995 ??
- What’s your role in the band?
Lead guitar, lead vocals, backing vocals depending on the song. I tend to be the one who brings us in and decides when to finish the songs too.
- What are your musical influences?
Well… Eclectic. Popular music from the 20th century, especially jazz from 20s/30s/50s/50s and rock and its derivatives from 50s/60s/70s. Selective pop music from 80s onwards. Selective jazz and world music from the past couple of decades.
- What’s your favourite Usuals gig and why?
I like playing the festivals. But also the sweaty pubs if the dance floor is crowded.
Drums and Vocals
Chris
- What’s your Usual?
Big fan of Irish whiskey. Jamesons usually.
- When did you join the band and why?
The Usuals get through more drummers than Spinal Tap. I think I joined (first time) for a 13 year stint around 2000* when I replaced the previous drummer who had moved away. Had a 7+ year break when I was working away, then rejoined around 2020*.
- What’s your role in the band?
Everyone else in the band is incredibly clever and highly qualified. I am not, so I sit at the back and hit things with sticks (insert your own drummer joke here).
- What are your musical influences?
Pretty eclectic, but I tend to gravitate towards rock. I love music that has intensity and drama – like Muse, Beethoven, Rammstein or NiN; but I’m really a sucker for anything with a good groove.
- What’s your favourite Usuals gig and why?
Too many to pick just one. Festivals are always good fun, but you can’t beat playing in a packed room with everyone having a great time dancing to the music you’re playing. Such a buzz.
Rhythm Guitar
Nige
- What’s your Usual?
Gin (tonic optional)
- When did you join the band and why?
At the start – 1995. My wife and I played a guest slot with a band at our wedding and I got hooked. Geoff and I worked in the same department and when we discovered we both played guitar the band was formed.
- What’s your role in the band?
Guitars, occasional drums and usually sound and lighting engineer.
- What are your musical influences?
Pretty wide – Fleetwood Mac, The Alarm, any amount of rock and a secret love of country music. Strictly no jazz.
- What’s your favourite Usuals gig and why?
We played Fibber Mcgees in Lancaster many years ago and the place was packed. Fantastic atmosphere and we went down a storm!
Vocals
Zoe
- What’s your Usual?
TBC
- When did you join the band and why?
TBC
- What’s your role in the band?
TBC
- What are your musical influences?
TBC
- What’s your favourite Usuals gig and why?
TBC