Not to be confused with Aphex Twin (because they’re better than them), The Paradox Twin are a fairly new band ready to hit you right between the ears with much new tunage. For the full skinny, here are our BotD questions answered by Danny…
Simple things first – where are you guys from?
We are all based in Reading, Berkshire.
How did you meet?
Myself and Leland have known each other for many years. We grew up on the same street together where our families lived, and we started jamming together in 2011. I have known Rob for a few years as he plays in a few bands with members I know, and I have been trying to work with him for a few years and this just so happened, when my previous band with Lee went on a hiatus. I met Diane through Rob as she was Rob’s landlady and she was suggested to us by Rob, when we were looking for a bassist.
How long have you been playing as a band?
This new band, with all four of us – was born in 2016.
Before you get sick of being asked… where does the band name come from?
The band name was derived from the album The Importance of Mr Bedlam, which is based on a couple being visited by E.T.s. One of the songs, “Gravity Time Dilation”, is where the male is being sent through space and coming back an old man compared to his much younger wife. This theory is called Twin Paradox.
What are your influences?
I like a wide range of music. I am into gothic bands such as My Dying Bride, or heavier progressive metal bands such as Opeth, or 70’s music such as Genesis or Yes. The other members’ influences are Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, and Porcupine Tree. Rob’s influences are John Bonham, Keith Moon, Stewart Copeland, and Neil Peart.
What kit do you use / guitars do you play / etc.?
PRS / Fender guitars, Mick Johnson / Ibanez bass guitars and Yamaha drum kits. We also use lots of pedals, AX8 and Helix processors plus lots of other pedals and boards.
Describe your music. What makes you unique?
Our music is alternative rock. When I write an album I like to take you on a journey, where each song is unique but still The Paradox Twin. One song might be dark and eerie, and the next more progressive, the next more rock or radio friendly. I like my albums to be able to be listened to as an album or where you can pick an individual song you like. I am very old school with my writing where I like listening to whole albums via CD or record.
Do you have any particular lyrical themes?
Not in particular. I write albums like a book. It will be based on a story at that time with the idea I have. The Importance of Mr Bedlam is based on a couple being visited by aliens. The next album will be completely different.
What’s your live show like? How many shows have you played?
The Paradox Twin is a rebirth of a previous project called Formby. Two members left in 2015 so I decided with the change of members to change the name. We played a lot of shows with Formby, namely festivals, etc. We have always been complimented on our live shows. Now we have backing we are hoping to raise the bar.
What’s the wildest thing you’ve seen or done at a live show?
We once played at the Top Gear festival and cars were racing as we were playing, which is something I will never forget.
What, if anything, are you plugging/promoting at the moment?
We are promoting the new single “Planeta” from the album The Importance of Mr Bedlam.
What are your plans for 2018?
We will be starting a row of shows towards the end of July – keep posted for those!
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