Able Faces: The Indie Rock Innovators

Able Faces is an English indie rock band known for their intricate guitar work and introspective lyricism. The group, formed in Manchester, achieved mainstream success with their second album, which charted in the UK Top 10 and earned a silver certification.

Early career

Able Faces formed in 2012, emerging from the vibrant Manchester music scene. The founding members, vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance and bassist Samir Khan, began writing songs while at university, later solidifying the lineup with drummer Erin Cole.

Their self-released debut EP, "Static Patterns," in 2014 caught the attention of several independent labels. This led to a signing with the respected indie label Bracket Records in 2015, which reissued the EP and supported their first national tour.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 2017 with their sophomore album, "The Constant Divide." Released on Bracket Records, the album debuted at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart, a significant jump from their earlier work.

Fueled by critical acclaim and steady radio play, "The Constant Divide" was certified silver in the United Kingdom. This success established Able Faces as a major new force in the UK guitar music landscape.

Key tracks

The Constant Divide — The title track's soaring chorus and driving rhythm became an instant fan favorite and a staple of their live set.

Half-Light — This melancholic single received extensive radio rotation, significantly broadening the band's audience.

Fault Lines — Known for its complex, interlocking guitar parts, this song showcases the band's technical prowess and artistic ambition.

Northern Skyline — A heartfelt ode to their origins, this track remains a closing anthem at their concerts.

Following their breakthrough, Able Faces toured extensively throughout Europe and North America. Their third album, 2020's "Mirror Rooms," saw them experiment with more atmospheric production while maintaining their guitar-centric core.

They have collaborated with producers like Catherine Marks and artists such as fellow Manchester act The Echo Drift. The band continues to headline major festivals and release music that challenges the conventions of the indie rock genre.

Fans of Able Faces often appreciate the work of similar artists from the UK scene. The Echo Drift shares a fondness for textured guitar landscapes and poetic lyrics. Fontaines D.C. matches their energetic live presence and post-punk influenced drive. Wolf Alice explores a similar dynamic range between quiet introspection and explosive rock. Shame operates within the same sphere of urgent, modern British guitar music.

The music of Able Faces maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on alternative rock radio stations and independent music radio stations. Their singles are frequently featured on playlists dedicated to new rock and curated shows highlighting the best in contemporary indie.

Listeners can discover the compelling sound of Able Faces on radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to onairium.com to hear their essential tracks and latest releases across our network of dedicated rock and alternative stations.