Johnny Park

Ones to Watch

What's the band called and where are you based?

We're Johnny Park and are happily based in Sheffield!

How would you describe your music?

It's definitely rock, but that's really only scratching the surface. We have a lot of influences ranging from classical to metal and everything in between... Jazz is a big love of ours! We like to mix up our sound, but one thing that's always at the centre is melody, and creating a mood through our music.

How do you find the local scene at the moment?

Most bands we've spoken to seem to agree that we're in a slight lull before the next wave of talent becomes established. Music trends are shifting, so here's hoping it's out with indie and in with rock!

Have you played out of town? Any stories?

Yeah, we once played a venue in Newcastle but all of the mic stands had been stolen the night before... so we played with the mics taped to broom sticks whilst someone held them up.

What's your plan?

Earlier this year we struck a deal to record our debut album with unlimited studio time. Apart from being the most amazing experience, we now have a platform on which to build, and the material to dangle in front of the bigger companies.

Who's going to be the next great band from South Yorkshire?

It has to be something deviating from the same old sound of recent years. Ok, maybe a slightly biased choice, but we'll go for a band from our hometown of Dronfield, Bohemian Mods. Polished sound, easy listening...

Any other favourites?

We've got so much respect for Mybe, they were the big local band when we were at school and they're still going strong. You know Dronfield is a real hot bed of talent.

Any advice for our readers or other musicians?

Don't be afraid to learn from others. It's all too easy to view other musicians as rivals. There's no substitute for practice and knowledge... oh, and passion, pure passion!

www.myspace.com/johnnyparkrock