Knives: The Rise of Bristol’s Noise-Punk Sensation

A Vocalist by Necessity

“I basically got bullied into it!” Jay Schottlander quips about his unexpected role as the frontman of the band Knives. Yet, as listeners dive into the debut album GLITTER, it becomes clear that his raw, powerful voice carries an undeniable swagger reminiscent of icons like Zack de la Rocha from Rage Against The Machine and Joe Talbot from IDLES.

Musical Influences and Unique Sound

Despite his fondness for hip-hop—his first musical love at age 13—Schottlander acknowledges that Knives transcends any single genre. The band’s sound is characterized by fierce riffs, dynamic grooves, and an unexpected inclusion of saxophone, distinguishing them from the typical punk scene.

Formation of Knives

Knives emerged from the vibrant Bristol music scene in 2022 when drummer Erin Cook reached out to Schottlander via a university group chat. “There are probably 200 bands who gig in Bristol consistently,” Jay explains, highlighting the city’s rich culture of collaboration among musicians. After several line-up changes, the current six-member ensemble has solidified over the past year.

Bonding and Recording Experience

The band’s chemistry flourished during a memorable recording session in Llanbadarn Fynydd, Wales, where they completed GLITTER in just six days. “It was like a school trip – we had girl and boy dorms!” Erin recalls, emphasizing the importance of the relaxed environment for their creative process. Jay filled downtime with a nostalgic game of Heroes Of Magic And Might 3, while the stunning mountain views provided a serene backdrop during intense recording sessions.

Album Themes and Inspirations

GLITTER is a whirlwind of energy, tackling themes such as the music industry in tracks like PHD, the visceral CHROMA, and the unsettling jazz-punk opener THE DAGGER, inspired by a personal encounter with racism. “Lyrics are a way for me to project how these shitty things have made me feel,” Jay explains. “We didn’t set out to be a political band, but we all are political. We prefer to take action rather than just talk about it.”

Exploring New Territory

The album’s closer, I SEE THEM FALL, showcases a darker, more experimental side of the band, drawing comparisons to renowned artists like Lamb Of God and System Of A Down. “I wanted a conclusion,” Erin notes, viewing the track as a bridge to future creative endeavors.

Future Aspirations

Alongside contemporaries like Enola Gay and Maruja, Knives is positioned to carve out their niche in the noise-punk genre. However, they remain grounded, valuing their artistic journey over fame. “If we never played a bigger stage, I’ve already achieved everything I could have dreamed of,” Jay reflects. “I could probably die happy.”

Conclusion

With GLITTER now available via Marshall Records, Knives is set to make waves in the music industry, combining their punk roots with innovative sounds and meaningful lyrics. As they continue to evolve, their commitment to authenticity and passion for music remains at the forefront of their journey.

FAQs

What genre is Knives associated with?

Knives is primarily categorized as a noise-punk band, but they incorporate various styles, including elements of hip-hop and jazz-punk.

When was Knives formed?

Knives was formed in 2022 in Bristol, England.

What is the title of Knives’ debut album?

The debut album by Knives is titled GLITTER.

Who are the members of Knives?

The current lineup of Knives consists of six members, including vocalist Jay Schottlander and drummer Erin Cook.

Where was GLITTER recorded?

GLITTER was recorded in Llanbadarn Fynydd, a rural area in Wales, over the course of six days.