Vagabond

Vagabond

With roots in Uruguay, Denmark, East London and Huddersfield, we should be grateful for this twist of fate. Fronted by the irrepressible Alex Vargas and with a soulful, bluesy pop sound unlike anything else around, Vagabond are one of 2009’s most exciting prospects.

Debut single 'Sweat (Until The Morning)' (due spring ‘09) sets the scene perfectly. The liquid-smooth bassline has barely kicked in when Alex takes centre stage with a voice that combines Brian Ferry's magnetism with Michael Hutchence's vocal dynamics. As the Sly Stone groove locks in, it all becomes clear - Vagabond are the soulful, pop/rock band the world didn't even know it was waiting for.

“Soul is the thread that runs through everything we do,” explains Alex. “Our tastes span pop, rock, lounge, funk and blues, but it's these clashes that make us interesting, that make us who we are”. “Otherwise we'd be just another indie band”, says Luke with a grin.

Since coming together in the studio that's been their second home for the past year, Alex (vocals, guitar) Stephen Carter (guitar), Luke Fitton (guitar) and Sam Odiwe (bass) have crafted a unique sound under the guiding influence of Brian Higgins – the venerated and prolific producer who's Midas touch has left an indelible mark on the UK charts and established Xenomania as a modern day Motown.

Xenomania's emphasis on studio perfection has been an inspiration. Since playing their first acoustic show less than six months ago, a gruelling schedule of studio work and national touring has seen Vagabond develop an enviable live show. Now signed to the newly revived Geffen label, Vagabond are generating the kind of buzz that's sure to accompany the band on next year's first full UK tour.

The debut album from Vagabond arrives summer 2009.