A Langworthy-based band is working to put Salford on the emo map with their eclectic mix of electronic ecstasy.

Room 201 are a three-piece emo/metal band aiming to rejuvenate the “dying genre” of alternative emo music, particularly in Salford.

Formed of Ozy (lead singer), Leon (guitarist), and Charlie (bassist), the band’s blend of subtle synths and moments mori aesthetic creates a 4-d experience within their music.

Lead Singer, Ozy, explained: “The main idea for it was to create an aesthetic where the music was quite minimal but pleasing. Almost where the aesthetic of the music was as important as what you’re hearing.”

Ozy believes the amalgamation of each member’s genres (from reggae to experimental guitar work), allows the trio to experiment with their aesthetic. He continued: “Through our mix of genres, we’ve picked quite unconventional ways of writing lyrics, almost like a rebellious way of writing music. We’re trying to save the dying genre of emo music.

“I write almost in a poetry style, taking inspiration from fantasy. The blend of our genres gives cool ideas to work so whenever we get into a studio we can cook up an album’s worth of music in a month.”

Ozy decided to start a band in 2020, after beginning his music career at aged 14, performing at open mic gigs at The Crescent pub.

After working on a successful solo project, Ozy began to question the purpose of his music. He said: “I used to do successful solo hip-hop/emo project, but after a few years I realised that I was doing it alone, not doing any gigs.

“Despite having an online fanbase, I felt like I wanted to go back to what inspired that style. I thought okay I’ll create a band in reverse, rather than making hip-hop music with emo elements, I’m making emo music with electronic elements.”

The band then formed through friendships and online searching for instrumentalists, with the trio still on the look-out for a drummer and synth-player.

The name Room 201 comes from memories of Ozy’s past relationship, with the room symbolising both the pleasure and pain that comes with love. He explained: “I stayed in a hotel in town, with my then girlfriend in Room 201.

“After a difficult break-up, I contacted the hotel about a year later, knowing where the room was, but I needed to know what the name of it was. I found it, then thought, that’s it, the band is called Room 201.”

Room 201 are planning to promote their music throughout Salford at various open mic nights and gigs.

 

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