After the roaring success of their much-loved debut LP 'Just A Revolution' in 2022, Southampton-based outfit Regent recently returned to deliver their explosive new album 'Beggars Belief'.
Featuring the previously shared outings 'Flying High', 'Liberation' and its stunning title-track, this new twelve-track collection makes for an incredibly absorbing listen. With its bold and driven textures, soaring atmosphere, and mesmerising hooks layered throughout, 'Beggars Belief' continues to cement them as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with frontman Ben Rooke to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I played was a piano... Then I learnt guitar.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Always loved The Beatles, all 60,s and 90,s music...also used to like rap...
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I owned was Oasis ‘Whats The Story Morning Glory’...
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I would have loved to have written ‘Don’t Let Me Down by The Beatles.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I sometimes relax and have a drink...but most the time I write best on a Sunday morning...it comes easy that way.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’m a bit daft, still listen to the bigger artists a lot The Black Keys The Libertines Noel Gallagher etc...
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
At the moment probably Liam Gallagher.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
It keeps me going...you can express yourself whether you are happy or miserable...
And what is the most frustrating part?
How much it all costs ie recording travelling PR costs etc...
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
You have to be made of steel to make it in the music industry...
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Regent's new album 'Beggars Belief' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.