Monterey Soul consists of Graeme Renwick (21) on acoustic guitar and Ruth Warrander (20) on vocals. They formed in the summer of 2005, writing their own material, a mixture of rock, pop and blues. Influences on the band include Blind Melon, Janis Joplin, the Libertines and Led Zeppelin amongst a long list of others. Ruth’s powerful, soulful voice is complimented by Graeme’s rhythmic guitar playing to give a fresh, exciting sound which is full of energy.
The pair left for university at the end of the summer 2005, Graeme in Edinburgh and Ruth in Glasgow, so they built on their repertoire back home (Aberdeen) during every university holiday, until recording their demo in the summer of 2006. It was at this time that Monterey Soul started playing gigs around Aberdeen. Venues included The Tunnels (twice) and Café Drummonds and they managed to get on the bill at the International Youth Music Festival. Since returning to university they have played in Glasgow, Nice N Sleazys, Maggie May's, The Vale and MacSorley's and in Edinburgh, Bannermans and Tonic. Playing gigs regularly allows Monterey Soul to write new material which can be added to an ever increasing set list.
