Gustaffson have laid down a huge marker with their new single Champagne Socialist, a track that proves they are set for an incredibly bright future.
Liverpudlian actor and musician Andrew Gower (best known for his appearances in the likes of Black Mirror, Outlander and YOU) is the frontman of Gustaffson, alongside band members James ‘Webbo’ Webster (guitar), David Gleave (bass), Liam Morson (keys) and Graham Bennett (drums).
Forming in 2012 as a song writing duo, Gower and Webbo, it would be ten years before the band would produce their debut EP The Jacaranda, recorded with Elbow’s Craig Potter in April 2022 and released to glowing reviews.
Following the release earlier this year of their song Northern Baby recorded live at Blueprint Studios, Gustaffson’s latest track Champagne Socialist was released on 10 August as a live single, this time recorded on the historic Liverpool Empire Theatre stage. The song has been released alongside a grand one-shot video (directed by Sam Fountayne) which pays homage to “past live variety performances recorded on the same stage” including by the likes of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
When it comes to the track, it’s a timeless rock and roll tune based around crunchy electric piano, dirty guitar riffs and melodic bass, which surround a compelling vocal performance from Gower. The live nature of the track is perfect for capturing that ‘off-the-cuff’ feel of a live performance that just doesn’t translate into a typical, static studio recording.
Gustaffson Champagne Socialist Official Video
Hot on the heels of their new music announcements, Gustaffson are set to embark on a trio of upcoming headline gigs over the next few months, starting off with Liverpool’s Cavern Club on September 7, where they will be performing tracks Northern Baby and Champagne Socialist, as well as music from The Jacaranda EP. The evening will be hosted by TV and radio presenter Cel Spellman, and Gustaffson will be joined by a number of guests including London singer-songwriter Iris Holmes, G33 (Girls Don’t Sync) as the evening’s resident DJ, as well as Liverpool’s Martha Goddard and her band. In addition to an exclusive screening of Jonathan Schey-directed short film The Entertainer starring Toby Jones, Gustaffson promise “an incredible evening of acts”, “attended by some really exciting upcoming talent in film, television and music”.
Be sure to get down to the Cavern Club on 7 September for Gustaffson’s headline gig – grab your tickets now here.
Stream Gustaffson’s Champagne Socialist on all major streaming platforms here.
Follow Gustaffson on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.
Jude Bankier
