A new “grunge folk” band has formed in Salford and they are set to play their first gig at the Eagle Inn.
Frontman Alwyn Jones, previously known for his solo project, has announced the formation of a new band called MEDIARES.
The name, derived from the Shakespearean stage direction ‘in media res’ (meaning ‘the story begins midway through the scene’), reflects a desire for a fresh start and a more collaborative approach to music.
While Jones acknowledges that the project is still largely his “baby,” he aims to foster a collective atmosphere, allowing for greater creative freedom among its members.
Jones explained his motivation behind stepping away from his solo career to form a band.
“I’m just sick of it being me.”
“I got really tired of it, so I pulled the project.”
The band is designed to be more collaborative than his previous ‘Alwyn Jones’ project.
MEDIARES is characterised by a unique blend of musical styles, which Jones describes as “grunge folk.”
He explained, “I’ve got like this grungy thing going on with my drums-based electric guitar and then I’ve got the folk thing at the same time.”
He believes that “even the grunge stuff is kind of folk coded.”
He elaborated on the connection between grunge and folk, stating, “I don’t think they are too different.”
The band currently consists of eight members. Jones said: “There are nine of us in pictures, but one of them is just a producer.
“He plays piano on one of the tunes.”
The lineup also includes a string trio and Jones’s sister, whom he has “drafted in to co-sing, essentially.”
MEDIARES is scheduled to play their first gig at The Eagle Inn. Jones chose the venue because “It’s like it’s a second home. I love the Eagle Inn.
“I go all the time, it’s a great boozer just anyway.”
He also noted that the venue “entices as folk artists, that’s just kind of what’s going on there all the time.”
The first official release from MEDIARES is a YouTube video of their song “Pitchforks,” which released last Friday.
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