Bio

'The Landing' is the debut album from Hamilton band Sons of Apollo

The History

Six and a half years ago, Belgian born Bart Brichau moved to Hamilton to pursue his life long dream of writing and recording his debut album. Andrew Rowson and Matt Paterson shared that same dream and joined him four years later in December 2007, after an extensive search.

Bart got in touch with Sandy Schaare through a website for musicians, while Greg Prebble, a long time friend of Sandy's, joined a few weeks later in February 2008. Sons of Apollo was born and songwriting started, old songs from all band members were dusted off as well as new songs resulted from jam sessions throughout 2008.

The Sound

Sons of Apollo draw inspiration from Genesis, Pink Floyd, Dave Matthews Band, Muse, Simple Minds, Peter Gabriel, Queen, Black Sabbath and Faith No More, while preserving a unique edge to their sound. Sandy's roaring guitars and distinct solos and riffs with Bart's swooping keys intertwine with the pumping rhythm section of Andrew on bass and Greg on drums. Matt's Maori roots show through his singing, whilst the lyrics go from very personal to reflecting on society in general.

The Dream

"It is a life long dream come true", Bart says. "It is true team work as we could not have done it without each other. The creative process was very easy, we are very compatible and complementary in skills and talents."

Matt agrees: "when we opened for OpShop, magic was in the air! It all came together and the crowd loved it!"

The band members are now spread across Auckland and Hamilton in the corporate and industrial sectors, their first album title 'The Landing' will be released on iTunes January 15th, and available from their website www.sonsofapollo.com while stocks last.

The album was recorded, mixed and mastered at Bart's Hamilton based Apollo Studios.

Feedback so far:

“Epic brooding melodies with underlying darkness” – Luke Wilkins, Kerrang! Radio, England

“This band is very cool!” – Dean Young, Radio Hauraki

“Forget the boyband, bring on the MANBAND. Fresh, unique and catchy. This group ooze talent and listening to their music is like a giant blast of listerine! A big future ahead and should be well received by music lovers and musicians alike.” - Dean O`Brien, Programme Director Rock FM and Magic 999, England

Band Members:
Matt Paterson (vocals)
Andrew Rowson (bass)
Greg Prebble (drums)
Sandy Schaare (guitar)
Bart Brichau (keyboards, backing vocals)