Formed in the Isle of Wight during 2013, Grade 2 consist of bassist Sid Ryan, guitarist Jack Chatfield, and drummer Jacob Hull. The band met at school where they would spend their lunch break playing covers of classic punk tunes together in the music room.
In October they released their third album, Graveyard Island. The album offers proof that punk rock is still as relevant in 2019 as it was in 1976. The band has been touring throughout U.K. and will play The Louisiana in Bristol on December 22.
Jack Chatfield recently discussed his music influences with Andy Howells
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
I think the first song that had a big impact on must be ‘1789’ by Lion’s Law. I would pick the entire album if I could! But that song I became obsessed with. It’s probably still one of my favourite chorus’ to date. Me and Sid would play it at every single house party back in high school, to the point where all of our mates who had no interest in Oi! would know every word (Laughs)
What was the first single /download you bought?
I’ve never bought a single in my life. I’ve illegally downloaded many though! I only buy albums personally, not too bothered about singles. But my first ever download must have been in the LimeWire days, when I was about 10 or 11, I downloaded ‘hells bells.exe’ and gave my brother’s computer a virus
What was the first album you owned?
First album I believe was Black Ice by AC/DC. I was just starting to get into playing guitar and just wanted to be like AC/DC. So, my mum bought me Black Ice on CD, the concept of owning an album to my 10-year-old self was thrilling
What’s your constant go to track?
‘Send Me A Postcard’ by Shocking Blue I will never get bored of
What’s your constant go to album?
Amyl and the Sniffers new album ‘Comfort to Me’ has just become my new go to. Everything they release is as good as the last
Who’s your latest music discovery?
My friend just introduced me to Bad Nerves. Incredible band with the coolest sound I’ve heard in a while. Their most recent album is unreal!
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
For me it must be ‘Falling Bridges’ it was the one of the first full songs I wrote on my own, and little did I know at the time it kind of shaped my sound and writing style. The main goal for me when I write is to make a song that “feels” good, and this song was the first one I wrote that did that for me. There are certain chords & progressions that I am naturally attracted to and you can find them all in ‘Falling Bridges’. It has energy and power whilst also being catchy and melodic. That is the kind of music I love to make.
- For ticket information visit Grade 2’s Official Website.