Music
Press
A crowd that grew steadily during the evening were rewarded with a hugely enjoyable show that saw a headline appearance by Royston Jones. A band, no doubt helped by Myspace, who are maturing fast and also developing quite a sizeable fan base. It's not surprising, as they produce intelligent lyrics with lush tunes, all wrapped up with a friendly demeanour. The consummate ease with which they perform "Look Around You" is a perfect case in point. The rapturous ovation afforded to them at its end is richly deserved.
The mosh pit is packed full of people who create a controlled frenzy of excitement as "Good Days" is played out to a room of contented swaying bodies. The tempo alters a touch as we then 'Rock out with Royston!' who deliver "Saturday Nights". My it's nice to change the mood a little, while "Stars" is once again tenderly performed. Tonight Royston Jones can do no wrong, and even a cheesy throwaway comment from vocalist Josh such as "We will do the last song last!" brings some rippled laughter. An audience that clearly won't leave until they receive an encore are rewarded with "Waste of Time". It has been a pleasure to have spent the last thirty minutes in this room's company. - Bedford Esquires
Tender boy next door indie rockers.. - Time Out Magazine
Royston Jones rides in on a wave of good feeling. Having headlined Camden Barfly last night the band is all smiles and bounces, feelings that take no time to rub off on the crowd. Almost against the grain of tonight, the Herts/Bucks quartet focuses a little less on its acoustic sound, instead playing an upbeat set of rock marked by the incredible song writing of frontman Josh Kershaw and some almost stadium like guitar playing.
In the band behind him (made up of bassist Stephen Johal, drummer Matt Kelly and guitarist Tom Williams) Kershaw has the perfect accompaniment of musicians to give life to his lyrics and offer an audience a stirring performance that delights and impresses. It's no surprise then when the crowd requests an encore which the band rather timidly obliges.
There's a feeling tonight that the band has found its comfort zone and is now happy in its bid to bring everyone along for the ride. With any luck the number of those taking that ride will continue to increase and mark Royston Jones out for the attention they deserve. - Alex Hambleton
Discography
Live album recorded in November 2007 on self release.
Waste of Time played on BBC Radio 1.
Wake Up played on BBC 3 Counties Radio.
Played 3 tracks live on BBC radio with 1 track uploaded to BBC website.
Photos
Bio
Royston Jones are without doubt one of the most exciting new up and coming bands around, with the unforgettable voice and amazing song writing talents of Josh Kershaw along with Matt Kelly on drums, Steve Johal on bass and Tom Williams on lead guitar, Royston Jones will be the name on everyone's lips.
Lead singer and acoustic guitarist Josh Kershaw was born into a musical family. His father an opera singer for the ENO, and his mother a music teacher. Josh was encouraged to play any instrument he could and started writing songs at 14 after his father died. Josh soloed for 3 years where his voice and passion for song writing and performing continued to grow.
Steve Johal has played the bass since choosing it over a holiday to Barbados at 15. Steve had played in several bands previously, but found Josh's music and lyrics so addictive that he quit his day job to dedicate himself totally to Royston Jones.
Taught by the infamous Bob Armstrong, drummer Matt Kelly started playing aged 12 and has played in many bands over the years. After hearing Josh's musical ability he started Royston Jones.
Tom Williams also comes from a music backgrond with his uncle playing for Jethro Tull, he knew from an early age he wanted to be in a band. Heavily influenced by Hendrix and many 70's bands his style clearly comes through in the music.
The band has a huge range of influences coming from jazz, funk, blues, rock, you name it there's an influence there! Having been compared to "Snow Patrol across with Jeff Buckley" with "songs that command you to sit and reflect" (Martin Stapleton) Royston Jones are a band to watch.
The last year has been exceptionally busy with gigging, recording, radio play and interviews. The band has headlined prestigious venues including London Barfly, Bedford Esquires, Club NME and Rhythms of the World festival with Billy Cobham. They are also playing the Offset festival in August with The Maccabees, Young Knives, Fightstar, The Hoosiers and others.
The self titled, self released album sold out far quicker than expected with tracks being played on BBC Radio 1 and BBC 3 Counties Radio. They are presently recording a new professional ep.
The live sound is one to be experienced to be believed.
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