Better Joy live at The Louisiana music pub in Bristol
Posted on: 11 Mar 2025Better Joy, AKA Manchester-based Bria Keely, embarks on her highly anticipated debut tour this Spring and will be live at Bristol's Louisiana music venue on Tuesday 1 April 2025.
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Teasing the upcoming tour with new music, better joy recently released the single “quiet thing”. A reflective, personal song that has morphed through many guises since its inception, it’s a song that pauses for thought on those quieter moments that define our relationships. As Bria explains:
"’Quiet thing’ is one of those songs that has taken on so many different lives since its original conception. I was originally inspired by someone close to me, who at the time was describing the quiet type of love he needed from his partner when going through a tough time. It got me thinking how important it is to not take the quiet moments in relationships for granted. I suppose I wanted to write an ode to those moments, but I didn’t want it to be sweet-sounding; I wanted the lyrics to be against music that had a bit of grit to offset the sweetness.”
Alive with gritty guitars, honeyed vocals and a euphoric chorus, it’s a captivating insight into forthcoming debut EP ‘heading into blue’, which better joy will be airing tracks from on her upcoming UK tour. Produced by Mike Hedges (The Cure, U2, Manic Street Preachers), the 6-track EP will also feature previous singles ‘waiting on time’, “carnival” and “what a day”, plus two brand-new tracks, “couldn’t run forever” and “can I land the plane?”. A vinyl version of the EP is available to pre-order now here.
When better joy launched in late 2023, her vivid songs brought comparisons to The Cure, The Smiths and Phoebe Bridgers. A solo project led by Bria Keely and backed up by her band, Bria has an upfront and centre voice as colourful as Debbie Harry and a knack for effortless storytelling. Ringing, complex riffs winding around Bria's vocals, dancing bass lines, characterful drumming and vulnerable lyrics: this is the sound of better joy.
Fresh off the back of a support tour with Hard Fi at the end of last year, better joy will next embark on a debut headline UK tour between 27th March and 5th April, with European and festival shows also on the horizon.
ABOUT BETTER JOY
Better Joy is a Manchester-based alternative pop band fronted by vocalist and songwriter Bria Keely. The band is recognized for its distinctive fusion of classic and contemporary sounds, drawing inspiration from artists such as The Jesus and Mary Chain, Phoebe Bridgers, and The Cure.
Formation and Musical Style
Bria Keely began her musical journey during her university years, initially focusing on songwriting. Her path led her to collaborate with producer Mike Peden, who introduced her to his sons, Joe and Chris Peden. This collaboration, along with drummer Jamie Ford, culminated in the formation of Better Joy.
The band's sound is characterized by a blend of deep, introspective lyrics and straightforward melodies, balancing vulnerability with resilience.
Debut Single: "Hard To Love"
In late 2023, Better Joy released their debut single, "Hard To Love," which explores themes of self-acceptance and personal flaws. The track features jangly guitar riffs, tight drumming, and haunting vocals, reflecting the band's ability to merge melancholic themes with uplifting musical arrangements.
The accompanying music video, directed by Sam Kristofski and filmed in Los Angeles, captures a sense of youthful carefreeness.
Subsequent Releases
Following their debut, Better Joy continued to build their discography with singles like "Dead Plants" and "Talking Around." "Dead Plants," released in early 2024, delves into the complexities of fading relationships and unconditional love, blending jangly guitars with ethereal vocals.
"Talking Around," released later that year, addresses themes of betrayal and harsh realities, showcasing the band's willingness to tackle profound subjects.
Upcoming EP: "Heading Into Blue"
Better Joy is set to release their debut EP, "Heading Into Blue," on March 28, 2025. The EP will feature six tracks, including "Couldn't Run Forever," "Waiting on Time," "What a Day," "Quiet Thing," "Carnival," and "Can I Land the Plane?" Produced by Mike Hedges, known for his work with The Cure and U2, the EP is anticipated to further establish the band's presence in the alternative pop scene.
Live Performances and Reception
Better Joy has been active on the live circuit, performing at various venues and festivals. Their performances have been noted for their energy and the emotive delivery of their songs. The band's unique sound has garnered attention from tastemakers, with BBC Radio 6’s Chris Hawkins naming them one of his favourite bands of 2024.
As they continue to evolve, Better Joy remains committed to exploring the contrasts in their music, offering listeners a blend of introspective lyrics and compelling melodies that resonate with a wide audience.
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Bristol born and bred despite the name, Brendan has been working in the digital media sector for the last 15 years and advertising for the last 25 years. A wealth of knowledge about the city and more importantly at how to help businesses get as much online exposure as possible. Call Brendan on 07876 735153 or email Brendan@365bristol.com.
