The Dunwells are a British band that combines rock, folk, pop, and country influences in their music. They are known for their harmonious vocals, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. They have been compared to Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers, and The Civil Wars.
The band was formed in 2009 in Leeds, England, by brothers Joseph and David Dunwell, who shared a love of music since childhood. They were joined by their friends Adam Taylor and Rob Clayton, who played drums and bass respectively. The band started playing gigs in local pubs and clubs, and soon gained a loyal fan base.
The band's country music journey began in 2011, when they were invited to perform at the Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis, Tennessee. There, they met producer John Porter, who had worked with legends like Buddy Guy, B.B. King, and Elvis Costello. Porter was impressed by the band's talent and offered to produce their debut album.
The band recorded their first album, Blind Sighted Faith, in Austin, Texas, with Porter. The album was released in 2012 and received critical acclaim for its blend of folk-rock, Americana, and Brit-pop. The album featured songs like "I Could Be A King", "Hey Now", and "Lucky Ones", which showcased the band's rich harmonies and uplifting lyrics. The album also included a cover of Bob Dylan's "Make You Feel My Love", which the band performed at the BBC Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park festival.
The band toured extensively across the UK and the US, supporting acts like Bryan Adams, Sheryl Crow, and Zac Brown Band. They also performed at prestigious festivals like South by Southwest, Lollapalooza, and Glastonbury. They earned a reputation as a captivating live act, with their energetic performances and charismatic stage presence.
The band's sound evolved over the years, as they experimented with different genres and instruments. They incorporated more electronic elements and synths into their music, while still maintaining their acoustic roots. They released several EPs and singles, such as Light Up The Sky (2016), Communicate (2017), and Fire Down (2018). They also collaborated with other artists, such as Lewis Watson, Lucy Spraggan, and James Flannigan.
The band's latest album, Something in the Water (2020), was a return to their country roots. The album was inspired by their travels across America, where they immersed themselves in the culture and history of places like Nashville, New Orleans, and Austin. The album featured songs like "Army of Kings", "Summertime", and "See You Soon", which reflected the band's optimism and gratitude for their fans.