Airtime: The Arena-Ready Sound of Modern Rock

Airtime is a British rock band known for its anthemic, guitar-driven sound and energetic live performances. Hailing from Manchester, the group achieved mainstream success with their 2018 debut album, Signal Received, which charted in the top 20 in the UK and spawned several rock radio hits.

Early career

Formed in 2013, Airtime's founding members met while studying music in Manchester. The quartet, consisting of vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance, guitarist Samir Khan, bassist Clara Reid, and drummer Jamie Holt, spent their early years honing their sound in local rehearsal spaces and clubs. Their self-released 2015 EP, Clear Channel, caught the attention of several independent labels, leading to a development deal with indie rock imprint Friction Records in 2016.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their debut album, Signal Received, on Friction Records. Propelled by the lead single Transmission, the album entered the UK Albums Chart at number 17 and was certified Silver for sales exceeding 60,000 copies. This success was cemented by extensive touring across Europe and a prominent slot on several major summer festival lineups.

Key tracks

Transmission — This lead single from Signal Received became the band's signature anthem and their first top 40 hit on the UK rock charts.

Frequency — A track noted for its soaring chorus and intricate dual-guitar work, it remains a staple of their live set and a fan favorite.

Static Echo — This slower, more atmospheric song demonstrated the band's range and received significant airplay on alternative radio stations.

Live Wire — Featured on their 2021 follow-up album High Voltage, this collaboration with producer Catherine Ross showcased a heavier, more polished side of their sound.

The momentum from their debut carried into their 2021 sophomore effort, High Voltage, which debuted at number 12 on the UK chart. The band has since collaborated with artists like electronic producer Maya Fields on the track Signal Interference and supported larger acts on international tours, solidifying their reputation as a consistent live draw. Their music continues to evolve, blending classic rock influences with modern production.

Fans of Airtime's brand of anthemic modern rock often also enjoy Nothing But Thieves for their powerful vocals and dynamic song structures. The driving guitar energy of Royal Blood shares a similar direct, riff-heavy approach. Listeners appreciate The Kills for a comparable raw, garage-rock infused intensity. The atmospheric rock of The Horrors also appeals to those who enjoy Airtime's more textured moments.

The music of Airtime maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across alternative rock radio stations and modern rock FM channels. Their hits are frequently featured on online rock radio streams dedicated to new guitar music, as well as on independent music radio stations that champion current British rock acts. This consistent airplay has helped them build a loyal international listener base beyond their UK origins.

You can hear the powerful rock anthems of Airtime regularly on the radio stations featured here. Explore and listen to their music through the various rock and alternative stations available on onairium.com.