The Return of ‘A’: Unpacking Their New Album Prang

A Band with a Legacy

Formed in 1993, ‘A’ has carved a unique niche in the rock genre, gaining recognition with their infectious energy and catchy hooks. The band, initially comprised of brothers Jason, Adam, and Giles, along with guitarist Mark Chapman, has seen various lineup changes over the years. Since 2022, they have been completed by bassist Richard Trigg. Their third album, Hi-Fi Serious, released in 2002, marked their peak, featuring the single “Nothing,” which reached the Top 10, along with the beloved track “Starbucks.”

Prang: A Long-Awaited Comeback

After a staggering 21 years, ‘A’ is set to release their fifth album, Prang. The lengthy gap between albums is not surprising, given Jason’s myriad responsibilities, which range from being a production powerhouse to a father of four. Additionally, he is the creator and co-presenter of the new music show Song Cake.

Jason’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Journey

In a recent conversation, Jason shared his experiences, covering topics from wild gigs with Faith No More to sibling rivalries in their fifties, along with his unexpected connection to the world of EastEnders.

Rocking Faces: A Personal Tale

When asked if he has ever “rocked someone’s face in,” as suggested in the lyrics of ‘A’s early song “Cheeky Monkey,” Jason humorously replied, “My own face, really.” He recounted the days before barriers were common at gigs, where enthusiastic crowds would often lead to him losing teeth and sustaining injuries from stage dives and mic mishaps. “I’ve lost a few facial parts due to rock, which I’m proud to say,” he added with a chuckle.

Learning from the Best

Reflecting on his time touring with some of the biggest names in music during the early 2000s, Jason noted the diversity of the festival bills they appeared on, sharing stages with acts like Black Eyed Peas and Rammstein. He revealed that the band he learned the most from was none other than the German punk rock legends, Die Toten Hosen. “Despite being a huge, stadium-sized band, they were incredibly down-to-earth and accommodating,” he recalled, praising their willingness to support emerging artists.

A Night Out with Faith No More

Jason shared an unforgettable experience with Faith No More, the first big band ‘A’ toured with. He described the anxiety of meeting his idols, particularly bassist Billy Gould, who surprised him by reaching out to make them feel welcome. “He took us out that night in Glasgow, and we got really drunk,” Jason said, reminiscing about the camaraderie and support offered by the band.

The Intimidation of Mike Patton

When discussing Faith No More’s enigmatic frontman Mike Patton, Jason admitted, “Intimidating. And I think he knows that and gets off on it in a way.” This acknowledgment speaks volumes about the band’s legendary status and the impact they’ve had on younger musicians.

Conclusion

The upcoming release of Prang signifies not just a new chapter for ‘A’ but also a celebration of their enduring legacy in the rock scene. With Jason’s rich anecdotes and reflections on the past, fans can look forward to an album that captures both nostalgia and fresh creativity. As the band prepares to unveil their latest work, it’s clear that their journey has only just begun.

FAQs

1. When will ‘A’ release their new album Prang?

Prang is set to be released soon, marking the band’s first album in 21 years.

2. Who are the current members of ‘A’?

The current lineup consists of Jason, his brothers Adam and Giles, guitarist Mark Chapman, and bassist Richard Trigg.

3. What was ‘A’s most successful album?

Their most successful album to date is Hi-Fi Serious, released in 2002, featuring the hit single “Nothing.”

4. What other projects is Jason involved in?

In addition to his work with ‘A’, Jason is also a father of four and the co-presenter of a new music show called Song Cake.