Originally formed in Somerset by twin brothers Ivan and Frazer (lead guitar), the China Bears line up was completed after meeting James (bass) and Dean (drums) at university in Guildford.

If melodic diligence counts for anything, China Bears are masters of their arty leftfield craft. Through a series of terrific tours and exquisitely-balanced EP releases 'I've Never Met Anyone Like You', "Statue Still' and 'All That Distance', they have displayed an innate ability to blend the alt-rock rush with the acoustic hush.

Rousing and romantic, their debut album 'Participation Trophy' feels cinematic in its grandeur, whilst also feeling incredibly personal in its storytelling. It was recorded in the autumnal sunshine of Leith with Rod Jones from Idlewild at the production controls. From the driving 'I Will Break My Own Heart', the twinkling 'Beck and Call', the electric force of 'Total Communication Breakdown' to the blossoming 'Gracie', there is a song to accompany everyone's own life soundtrack.

Whether it's ripping apart the stage with their misery-anthemic indie or captivating the room to pin drop silence singing their songs shoulder to shoulder in the middle of the crowd, China Bears have gained recognition for their emotive high energy and intimate performances which have drawn knowing comparisons to The National, Death Cab For Cutie and Frightened Rabbit.

We like them so have hence banged them on front cover of music radar (twice!) - Listen to their latest album, we’re obsessed with it.

They have tonight and tomorrow (10th and 11th Oct) of touring left, tonight is London - Oslo and tomorrow is Bristol - Exchange , we went to Bodega to see them, read review. Go see them if you can.

China Bears

Kunuku

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