Members
Select a Nine Black Alps band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Nine Black Alps is an indie rock band hailing from Manchester, England, known for their energetic and gritty sound. Formed in 2003, the band originally consisted of Sam Forrest (vocals, guitar), James Galley (drums, vocals), Martin Cohen (bass), and David Jones (guitar). The group took their name from a line in a Sylvia Plath poem, and they've carved out a niche with their blend of alternative rock, grunge, and pop rock influences. Over the years, Nine Black Alps has released several albums, including Everything Is, Love/Hate, and Candy For The Clowns, earning a reputation for their dynamic live performances and engaging songwriting.
How to Sound Like Nine Black Alps
Nine Black Alps' sound is characterized by its raw, high-energy guitar riffs and driving rhythms, often reminiscent of the grunge era. Their music features a blend of distorted, fuzz-laden tones and aggressive, melodic hooks, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience. Key to this sound is the use of gear like the Gretsch Double Jet, which delivers solid body electric guitar tones, and the Electro-Harmonix Green Russian Big Muff Reissue, which adds a thick layer of fuzz to their tracks. The Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer further enhances their gritty edge with its classic overdrive, allowing for a seamless transition between melodic verses and explosive choruses. The band’s rhythm section underpins this with tight, punchy bass lines and vigorous drumming, providing a relentless momentum that propels their songs forward.