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You know you’re onto a good thing when the songs just stick in your mind.That’s how it is with South Wales band, The Ralities. Their music is packed withmemorable hooks, danceable rhythms, gorgeous melodies and lush vocalharmonies. And behind the irresistible tunes, thought-provoking stories unfold whichare often rooted in the band members’ own life experiences.The Ralities’ musical influences embrace soul, folk, jazz, funk and rock, reflecting thediverse backgrounds of the band members. Everything fits together in a uniquemusical mix which will stay with you long after you’ve stopped dancing.Born and raised in Sheffield, lead singer, guitarist and songwriter Bongo Counddraws inspiration from his roots in Northern Soul and post punk guitar bands. Heearned his musical stripes as a bass player around the pubs and clubs of the north inthe 80’s and 90’s before moving to Wales, where he settled and raised a family.Bongo kept his talents as songwriter and frontman hidden while his family wereyoung, but he never gave up on his musical dream and now at last it has found itsfull expression in The Ralities.Multi-instrumentalist, backing singer and songwriter Sue Griffiths grew up in London.Thanks to her classical training, she shifts effortlessly between keyboard, saxophoneand woodwind. Sue’s sophisticated musical sensibility and deft touch on a range ofinstruments adds a unique flavour to the band’s sound.Guitarist, backing singer and songwriter Simon Mansfield is an experienced musicianwho has played in some legendary music venues and has had his music featured onnational radio. Simon has an aptitude for finding just the right musical twist, transitionchord or vocal harmony to lift the songs to a higher level, and of course his divinelead solos are firm favourites with the rest of the band.Drummer Sally Hinds grew up in a musical household where her parents played 70s,80s and 90s pop, and then found her own music in the pubs and clubs of Cardiff inthe noughties. She learned her craft drumming for her local brass band, but widenedher repertoire considerably when she joined the Ralities. Sally’s sensitive touch andability to bring light and shade to the songs makes her literally the beating heart ofthe band.Bassist, keyboard player and songwriter Jonathan Barry was born in Australia butgained his classical music training in the UK. He has toured with many differentbands and has vast experience as a versatile session musician. A huge talent,Jonathan not only brings fabulous creativity to the bass line, but has a great ear forarrangements, finding that perfect sound or effect that keeps the audience comingback for more.
