Writeabout

Eight Rounds Rapid are a four-piece from Southend-on-Sea, formed in 2010. The band carries the Canvey Island R&B tradition forward, channelling Dr Feelgood, Wire, Gang of Four and Public Image Limited into raw, punk-edged songs about the Essex underworld, delivered with sneering wit and slashing guitar.

Three albums in: Lossleader (2014, Cadiz Music), Objet D’Art (2017, Cadiz Music), and Love Your Work (2020, Tapete Records). Mojo, Uncut and Classic Rock have all praised the band’s no-frills, high-octane sound. Mojo described guitarist Simon Johnson’s playing as “a cacophonous hybrid of his dad Wilko, Johnny Thunders and early Pete Townshend.” Louder Than War called frontman David Alexander’s delivery “all rapid authenticity and deadpan Essex boy menace.”

The band has had airplay from BBC DJs including Mark Radcliffe, Gary Crowley, Gideon Coe and Steve Lamacq, and played international stages including the Trans Musicales festival in Rennes, broadcast by KEXP.

Press

“A welcome blast of no-frills, bullshit-free excitement that can only be deadly live.” – Classic Rock

“A cacophonous hybrid of Wilko, Johnny Thunders and early Pete Townshend.” – Mojo

“One of the most exciting new bands since Sleaford Mods.” – Vive Le Rock

“The real deal… drama, humour, anger, precision and character.” – Louder Than War

“Thames Estuary crude given a vital contemporary twist.” – Uncut

Lineup:

David Alexander — vocals

Simon Johnson — guitar

Mike Weston — bass

Matt Fox — drums