Hailing from Petersfield in Hampshire, Mark Vennis & Different Place refuse to be constrained by the norms of convention. With Mark as the creative driving force behind their original songs, their music draws from a diverse spectrum of influences, counting iconic acts like The Clash, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, and Paul Weller among their inspirations.
This dynamic ensemble has already left an indelible mark with their music, boasting three highly acclaimed albums: ‘Uncharted Water,’ ‘Faded Glory and Other Stories,’ ‘A Beautiful Lie or The Ugly Truth’ in 2018, and ‘Fighting on All Fronts’ in November 2020. Their musical repertoire is a vibrant tapestry of stories and sounds that defy easy categorization, a testament to their artistic versatility.
Now, Mark Vennis & Different Place emerge with their latest offering, the single ‘Wild Suburban Boy,’ offering a tantalizing preview of what’s in store on their upcoming mini-album ‘Small Town Vampire,’ slated for release in January 2024.
The core members of this musical powerhouse include Mark Vennis, skillfully managing guitar and vocals, with Sean Quinn adding his unique touch on guitar and percussion, Dave Sweetenham anchoring the basslines, and Brian Gee providing the rhythmic pulse on drums.
In addition to their musical exploits, Mark Vennis has ventured into the realm of soundtracks, composing the music for the documentary ‘ON RESISTANCE STREET.’ This film dives deep into the world of rebel rock and the relentless battle against racism, adding another layer to their commitment to impactful storytelling.
‘Wild Suburban Boy’ emerges as the opening salvo from the forthcoming 7-track album, ‘Small Town Vampire.’ This track defies easy classification, embracing elements of new wave, punk, and the driving force of rock. Lyrically, it delves into the complex theme of the contrast between perceived knowledge and ignorance, the struggle to break free when the path forward remains uncertain, and the stark reality of growing up in the mundane suburbs where creativity often languishes.
It’s an anthem for those who yearn for the allure of the bustling cityscape, the place where dreams and stories are etched into the very fabric of urban life. ‘Wild Suburban Boy’ also serves as a call to arms against the hypocrisy and self-deception that all too often run rampant in society.
In the true spirit of punk rock’s do-it-yourself ethos, it encourages the listener to break free from constraints and open their minds to new perspectives. Mark Vennis & Different Place haven’t merely crafted a song; they’ve ignited a sonic rebellion that challenges societal norms and beckons a fresh wave of creativity. As Mark Vennis aptly puts it, “You should listen to our songs – we hope they make people think about society and culture and how important it is to always be open and creative.”
‘Wild Suburban Boy’ is a testament to the band’s unwavering commitment to musical evolution and unbridled expression. It stands as a rallying cry for those who yearn to escape the mundanity of the suburbs and embrace the vibrant chaos of the world with open hearts and open minds.
Follow MARK VENNIS & DIFFERENT PLACE on
English