Hoggboy

Following years spent nurturing their separate musical experiments, Hogg on guitars and vocals, Hugh on guitar, Bailey on bass, and Richy on drums experienced an unplanned encounter atop the 53 bus in early 2000. The four instantly bonded, establishing both Hoggboy and its brooding, hazy rock sound. Eager to escape their Sheffield roots, the band relocated to London within twelve months and connected with Pulp’s touring guitarist and ex-Longpigs member Richard Hawley to record the debut single “So Young.” BBC DJ Steve Lamacq’s endorsement finally propelled “So Young” into public awareness in 2002. That April the follow-up “Shouldn't Let the Side Down” appeared alongside a U.K. tour. Momentum surged when shared bills with the Strokes and the White Stripes elevated Hoggboy’s profile throughout the indie rock scene. Or 8?, produced by the renowned Chris Thomas whose credits include the Sex Pistols, INXS, Elton John, and Roxy Music, arrived as the group’s first studio album in fall 2002.