Artists - Blues Rock and Roots

The Modern Apes play quintessential British rock and roll from the 60s.

The four piece from South London perform the songs that conquered the world and made 'swinging London' the cultural capital of cool.

The Apes show is known on the live London circuit for its energy and camaraderie, with an authentic 60s sound and lush four-part harmonies.

Playing hits from iconic bands including The Who, The Small Faces, The Kinks and The Rolling Stones, along with 'mod' classics from Spencer Davis Group, Del Shannon and The Animals, the Apes capture the style and atmosphere of the decade.

The band has played to audiences up and down the UK, performing sold out shows at The Cavern in Liverpool and the legendary Barnes Jazz Club, as well as appearances at mod weekenders on the Isle of Wight, Blackpool, Cambridge and the Mersea Island Scooter Festival.

Matt Swan is the band founder, acoustic guitarist and lead singer. An artist by day, Matt’s soulful, bluesy vocals are often compared to Steve Marriott and Joe Cocker’s.

Matt has performed in bands with old friend, bassist and backing vocalist, Bob Faulkner, since the late 90s. Bob’s powerhouse bass style channels the spirit of The Who’s Jon Entwistle via Chas Chandler.

Five years ago, Matt and Bob’s shared love of 60s music inspired them to search out like-minded musicians to launch a vintage act. They quickly found Essex-born, virtuoso lead guitar player Matt 'Wilko' Wilkinson. Matt plays a vintage Fender Stratocaster in the band's live shows, takes his pedals very seriously, and is often landed with singing the 'difficult 3rd harmony'.

Newest member of the band is Jack Daynes on drums. Jack has toured extensively with the UKs no.1 Oasis tribute, Oasish, has worked as house drummer onboard P&O Australia and has recently completed a tour of the French Alps. His style is influenced by two of the most powerful and charismatic drummers of the 60s, Keith Moon and John Bonham.

Complementing the line up, Matt’s cousin Phil Swan is currently playing keyboards for the Apes. Multi instrumentalist Phil is an indispensable member of the 'Apes family'. On various occasions, Phil has played guitar, keyboards, bass and drums - the Apes often joke that he knows the set list better than the band!