Sunbirds

Phil Barton met Dave Hemingway back in 2008 when he was invited to play guitar for The South, a band formed from the remnants of The Beautiful South.  In 2012 The South released an album called Sweet Refrains which contained seven songs co-written by Phil.  The South eventually decided that they’d prefer to concentrate on highlighting the back catalogue of The Beautiful South prompting Dave’s departure in 2015.

After a bit of needed headspace, Dave realised he was still in love with making new music and contacted Phil to see if he had any new material. Sunbirds were born. Their debut album, Cool To Be Kind was released in November 2020 to great reviews..

“Sunbirds British take on Americana evokes Choke-era Beautiful South with warmth to spare” – John Aislewood MOJO Magazine.

“A highpoint of it’s rootier ilk” – Eoghan Lyng, We Are Cult

“Cool To Be Kind is a must-have album which helps us forget the pandemic and lust after the days where this amazing new band can deliver their songs live” – Kevin Cooper, UK Music Reviews

Once the live music scene was again healthy enough to sustain itself, Sunbirds hit the road with a short run of dates in December 2022 with their now expanded 6-piece band.  The audience reaction vindicated to the band what they felt they had.

“Absolutely smashed it out of the room, those songs took on a whole new dimension live, can’t wait to see you again” – Steven Kerry

“Such a brilliant night, so good to hear that brilliant album zplayed live – Thank you all” – Donna Maria Lean

“Fantastic night.. Want to do it all again.. Albums fantastic.. Thank you Sunbirds “ – Linda Lloyd