The SKBs – A collective – not a band!
With “The Whale Edge” out now, we took some time to hear from The SKBs. Read below to learn more about The SKBs, the story behind “The Whale Edge,” and what’s to come.
Hi The SKBs! Let’s start with how did you guys come up with the name?
The SKBs is short for ‘The Should Know Betters.’ There’s no meaning behind it, other than those who are behind it are of an age where they certainly should! The project started life as a ‘bucket list’ thing to do, which somehow spiralled out of control (in a positive way!) The name is simply a way of gluing the project together.
What city are you all from, and where are you all based now?
Not being a band in the traditional sense, we didn’t meet and form up in the way Rock N Roll history dictates. We are from all over the UK, although the nucleus of the collective is located in East Anglia, a region of the UK around an hour to the east of London. Ronnie, who adds steel guitar parts, is based in the US.
How did you all get together?
We didn’t! As the SKBs is not a band, the process began with the writer, Al, meeting up Eon (guitarist) and asking if he wouldn’t mind sticking some guitar parts down on a bucket list project, for personal use. It soon became clear that something pretty good was emerging, and so it was decided to see ‘where this leads us’ (which is the name of the album).
What have you enjoyed most from the process?
Working with amazing musicians, most who I would now call friends, having a lifetime dream fulfilled, regardless of what happens commercially, and having a lot of laughs along the way!
How would you guys describe your guys’ sound to readers who may not be familiar with you all?
Every song on the album has a different sound and influence, from Country to Soul, Gospel to Rock N Roll. The Whale Edge is a good old rock n roll classic, in the style of AC/DC and Status Quo.
Who are some of your guys’ main musical influences?
Being a collective and not a band, we all have different influences, Ronnie has worked with Country royalty, Sara has sung with a host of named artists, and Leon, the drummer, has been with UK rock legends Status Quo since 2013. We are all influenced by music that we’ve listened to along the way, and this enables us to add to the strength of the song, whatever genre or style it may be.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your guys’ music career so far?
As the composer, I couldn’t be prouder than when I listen to the finished album. It’s diverse, fun and has come out way better than I could have dreamed!
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve all learned so far?
As the writer, I think to allow all participants to have free reign to do their thing, if we don’t like it, we can always change it. Also, ‘the song always wins,’ meaning if the song is enhanced by an addition, or a deletion of a part, this always takes precedent.
Now onto the release, ‘The Whale Edge.’ What inspired this song?
A challenge from a work colleague at the time to write a song about accountancy!
What is ‘The Whale Edge’ about?
Around 1991, I was in the process of completing accountancy exams -very rock and roll!! – along with my (then colleague and now friend Stella) and I somewhat confidently said, ‘I can write a song about anything,’ to which she replied, ‘ok, about accountancy and work’ – so I did! The lyrics are cryptic, so good luck in trying to work them out!
What was the creative process like while making the song?
Most of my songs follow the same process, starting with a hook, or a lyric, and then building from there. Some come naturally, others require a bit more work!
How long did it take to complete ‘The Whale Edge?’
You could argue 34 years! But, the studio process and arranging, probably around a day.
What message do you hope fans take away from your guys’ music and from ‘The Whale Edge?’
The project has never been about seeking fame and fortune, or recognition, although if this a side effect, then so be it! If it brings a smile to the listener, or better still gives them an earworm, then I could not be happier!
What’s next for you all? Are you all working on any upcoming projects, or do you all have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
There are plans afoot to start on the second album within the next few weeks, and there will definitely be a live show later in 2025, early 2026. Depending on the success of Where this leads us we may extend to a few shows. We’re generating Europe wide interest, so if there are any promoters reading…
Where can we follow you all on social media?
https://www.facebook.com/people/The-SKBs/61573027531151/
https://www.instagram.com/theskbs/
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
