Are Scouse Bands and Live Music the Key to Happiness? A Review of The Drop Jonnies

I’m a member of Leeds Student Radio, which, if you didn’t know, means I usually get to hide behind a radio microphone for two hours every week whilst my friends and family listen to me natter on about anything and everything. Every now and then, though, I force myself out from behind the desk to take on some very exciting (and

occasionally nerve-wracking) opportunities, like recording band interviews. Recently, I was given the chance to see ‘The Drop Jonnies’ perform at the Lending Room in Hyde Park. As someone from Liverpool, I was especially excited to hear that the brilliant indie band started out in my home city. Made up of members Ed, Ollie, Max and Tom, the four-piece delivered a rocking set that included their banging single ‘Green Chick’, which you may already have heard on BBC Radio 6. Since the gig, they’ve also released their newest tune, ‘Single or Return !’, blending their classic indie sound with a sunny 60s-inspired vibe that feels perfect for the summer months ahead.

The Drop Jonnies often switch up their sound, even changing singers throughout the set, which keeps everything feeling fresh and unpredictable. What I found especially refreshing was how they genuinely seemed to enjoy playing together; their passion for music and songwriting shines through in a way that makes their sound feel completely their own. Having been to a lot of gigs before, this one seriously stood out to me. Their on-stage charisma was infectious, and I think live music becomes so much more enjoyable when you can tell the artists are genuinely having fun. It creates a real connection with the audience, giving the whole room this sense of energy and aliveness.

After the gig, my friend Katie (a spectacular Leeds Gryphon writer) and I were lucky enough to interview the band. Despite us forcing them to sit outside and have a chat in the cold, they were absolutely lovely, and it ended up being a really special experience. Thankfully, I was mainly in charge of recording, which meant I could hide behind the microphones and avoid the camera while chatting with them about university life in Liverpool, their music, and, of course, their detailed recommendations for the best pints in the city. Before the interview, I was pretty nervous: it’s hard to know if an interview is going to be successful or painfully awkward. Luckily, the conversation flowed so naturally that

all of my nerves disappeared within only a few minutes of chatting with them. It was fascinating hearing about their creative process, how they came together as a band, and the inspiration behind their music. I’ve since had the chance to speak to them again for the LSR Hometime Instagram, where they talked more about their newest songs and where they’d like to go next as a band.

The guys explained that their music often reflects whatever they’re listening to or interested in at the time of writing, which means their sound is constantly evolving. Their lyrics frequently come out of jam sessions and personal experiences, balancing university life with music, creating a sound that feels both distinctive and relatable. They’ve already hinted at more shows later this year, including a return to Leeds’ live music scene, and it’s definitely not something you’ll want to miss. Being a scouser myself, supporting upcoming bands and independent venues feels

especially important right now. Recent closures of venues such as Zanzibar and LEAF have had a real impact on the city’s music culture, and it’s a reminder of how much local scenes rely on support from audiences. I know so many people who have started pursuing music during university, either professionally or just as a passion, and I’ll always encourage people to go to smaller gigs and support local artists whenever they can.

LSR recently held ‘Transmission’, a brilliant weekend event showcasing local bands and artists. Across two days, we got to see and speak to some amazing acts while raising money for the Music, Arts and Production Charity (MAP), which helps children access education and the creative arts. It was such a great example of how important student and local music communities can be in giving upcoming artists a platform. You can check out all the bands involved over on the LSR socials. The Drop Jonnies were electric, and I’m really excited to see where they go next. Their newest single, ‘Single or Return !’, is out now on streaming services, so make sure to follow their Instagram, @thedropjonnies, to keep up with new releases and upcoming shows. Until then, go out to local gigs, support smaller venues, and give more upcoming bands a listen. Your new favourite artist could be just around the corner, and I think The Drop Jonnies are a pretty great place to start.

Words by Ellie Mullen, she/her