FlashFires are a five-piece band from Basingstoke, who formed in early 2009. Aged between 16 and 17 years old, the group have been gigging and recording regularly since their formation.

After going through a number of line-up changes, Alex, Jon, Fraser, Liam and Toby began to make somewhat of a name for themselves, performing in various local bars and pubs, as well as numerous private functions. As their music progressed and their songwriting matured (helped immensely by the contributions of lead singer and guitarist Alex Gonzato), they decided to take their compositions to a wider stage.

 In late 2009, FlashFires (originally named ‘RetroGrade) auditioned for Reading Rock Academy’s ‘Battle of the School Bands’, the final of which was to be held at Reading’s premier entertainment venue, The Hexagon.

The boys impressed the judges with their abilities at such a young age, and were granted a place in the final with 7 other talented bands. After giving an admirably energetic performance the boys came close second.

The band, who draw influences from American rockers Kings of Leon and Indie ensemble Arctic Monkeys, bounced back, winning a place on the Mainstage at their hometown’s most popular music event, Basingstoke Live.

Following such a euphoric experience, it was back to work to try and reach, and perhaps better, the high standards that the schoolboys had set for themselves. Juggling their songwriting and performing, FlashFires developed a brand new style and a change of genre, which was met with plaudits from audience members and reviewers alike.

Early this year, the boys returned to compete in ‘Battle of the School Bands 2011’, hoping to better their result from the previous year. After an assured showing in the newly introduced semi final, the band reached and won the final, and thus a chance to play at Reading’s Madejski Stadium prior to a football match, plus a recording session at Whitehouse Studios.

A name change from ‘RetroGrade’ then occurred, before a host of recording sessions – both at Whitehouse Studios and with friend Connor Adam. The songs ‘31’ and ‘Manshark’ are currently displayed on the bands Facebook page, and can be downloaded free from soundcloud.com/jon-c-1.

A new EP is set to be released around the beginning of 2012, and the group are currently looking for more gigs in the Basingstoke area.