LIGHTNING BELLS

Lightning Bells began in a dusty Auckland basement armed with the old family piano, a garage-sale guitar and a brother & sister with distinct voices. Growing up in the conflicted household of an opera-singing mother and Beatles-nut father - Christy and Emily Whelan were drawn to making music from an early age.

In 2011 they finally extended their musical family under the banner Lightning Bells and with the help of an eclectic group of friends they released some well-received demos, a rough ‘n’ ready limited release EP and put on a string of raucous live shows. Their sound has evolved over the past 18 months and after countless hours working with friends and collaborators Lightning Bells are set to release Chime, their new EP showcasing a crafted alt-pop sound and electric live band.

Lead single ‘Wake Up’ plus the six songs included on ‘Chime’ reveal diverse instrumentation and a pop sensibility, and demonstrate the magnetism between Christy’s energetic and at times raspy lead vocals and Emily’s sweet harmonies. The EP is filled with personal tales about a life that lies somewhere between growing up and settling down… a theme also tackled in hilarious fashion by their video for ‘Wake Up’. Lightning Bells continue to grow, assuring us they won’t settle!