Shropshire-born rock band prepares for single release and first gig back in 18 months

A Shropshire-born rock and soul band that's gone on to tour throughout Europe is gearing up for the release of their new single and first live gig in more than 18 months.

Rainbreakers singer Ben Edwards is preparing for the band's first gig back at Albert's Shed next month

The Rainbreakers will celebrate the launch of their latest track, Light Me Up, on May 28 before taking to the stage of Albert's Shed in Telford on June 12.

Led by frontman Ben Edwards – joined by his younger brother Sam on drums – the band is complete with Charlie Richards on lead guitar and Ash Milburn on bass.

Having started writing Light Me Up in 2019, the four-piece soon started the pre-production process and began recording the song in January 2020, until the pandemic struck.

Ben, 32, from Shrewsbury, said they were then forced to continue their efforts writing their upcoming album and recording their anticipated single from home.

"We started recording last year in January, and then lockdown came and messed up our schedule," he said.

Ash Milburn, Ben Edwards, Sam Edwards and Charlie Richards. Photo: Rob Blackham

"We did a bit of recording at home to try and maximise the use of our time and the recording engineer did an amazing job putting it all together."

The band is releasing the single on 7" vinyl and has already published the music video, which has gained more than 25,000 views on Youtube.

Describing the new track as a "gritty rock song part-inspired by Rival Sons", Ben said the lyrics to Light Me Up delved into self-reflection and what it means for people to meet their full potential.

"The song is about realising you have something to offer," he said.

"We all need at some point, whoever that may be, a mentor to push us forward and help us achieve."

The band's returning gig at the Southwater-based venue in June will help mark the start of an important revival in the county's music scene.

The socially-distanced show will be played in front of an audience of about 140 seated fans.

Ben said: "We're hoping people will want to come out and support all the live music they can.

"Every industry has no doubt been hit hard by the pandemic, but live arts such as theatre and music has had it incredibly tough.

"We'll be doing everything we can to ensure people are safe, as this is the start of the process to reopen the music industry."

Tickets for the upcoming gig and more information on the band can be found at therainbreakers.com