Why aren't they on Jools Holland?

A serious question, worthy of much consideration, as many of you who have already experienced the Hums would like to think that somewhere in a distant, yet fairer parallel universe — Mostly Hums rule!

Mostly Hums are a multi-talented Lancaster based rock group.

Originally formed as an acoustic harmony trio featuring Vicki Graham, Alex Leek and Paul Jones, the Hums (named after a comment on where song ideas come from), began trips out of the living room to local pubs in 1997, with acoustic doodlings inspired by Van Morrison and Nick Drake. With the early additions of Ash on bass, Harry Bongos on congas and Mark the stand in add lib drummer, the group soon evolved into the fuller more dynamic sound that can be enjoyed today.

Soon Paul Jones left to become a wandering folk troubadour, (see Howden Jones) being replaced through Ash by the monster that is Chris. With the eventual inclusion of Trev on a free transfer from Lytham United and Paul Graves (on a North-South exchange project), the full throttle electric sound was thus complete. Recording as a six piece the Hums now included two of the finest emerging songwriters in the North West — both with different influences, writing in different styles, grateful of the unique interpretation that a collection of such fine musicians can offer.

The eponymous first album Mostly Hums (1999) featured such perennial Hum classics as Fire, Long Time Ago and Norman Baines, whilst Sugartime (2001) featured Herriot, Phase, Eye of the Day and marvellous Hum anthem and title track Sugartime, described by Diverse Radio as the best thing on 3 chords!

Recording of Sugartime and the pressures of live appearance eventually led to the rockin' retirement of Alex, paving the way for the more settled Hums line up that has rocked the world in it's own unique eclectic style since 2002.

Now, as always, the Hums rock! Featuring Ash (bass), Chris (vocals / guitar), Paul (lead guitar), Trev (drums / vocals) and Vic (vocals, keyboard / accordion) they present a set that defies categorisation. Finely crafted original songs ranging from storming up-tempo rockouts, to quirky indie delights, haunting ballads, ska inspired shake-ups and folk and rockabilly tinged melodramas — all highlighting the Hums ability to draw song writing inspiration from a myriad of sources including: double agents, bitch girlfriends, the five knuckle shuffle and good old fashioned lurv — as someone was heard saying recently "You never know what is coming next!".

2009 saw the release of the 11 track album 'Jump The Shark', including Jumperlooza, Message To Myself and the stunning The Moon Has Turned To Rust featuring a show stopping performance from Vic on lead vocals.

The Hums are always a refreshing lively and highly enjoyable live experience and certainly one of the most accomplished bands in the region — always guaranteed to entertain and get your feet moving and your ears begging for more.

“Best live band in Lancaster”, Tony bandsinlancaster.co.uk

Try to catch them soon — you will be amazed... and you will be back for more.

See you there!