The Strains

Formed in 2002 or was it 2001? The original lineup was Ivan Infante, drums and rehearsal space entrepreneur (Sevilla Suena), Erika Lundgren, Bass and Swedish Vikingess, Mark Wills, guitars and musical composer (also guitars/vocals with "Give Me Milk") and Chris Morgan, Mancunian vocalist, lyricist and regular hernia earner. The Strains have been a bit stop and go. In 2002, or it might have been 2003, the band recorded their debut demo "In Sevilla" Rare copies of which are probably still to be found in the collections of some friends and probably families of the band members. Some may even be lucky enough to have the original version complete with stunning cover artwork by Sevilla's legendary Pepe Kinto, we bow to his artistic genius, a true brother, though not related to any of the band. They gigged in Sevilla's usual nightspots, especially La Antigua, thanks to Ako and Javi who'll give anyone a chance to do their thing in their slightly eccentric bar (Calle Castellar 52, Sevilla). In 2002 or was it earlier... Erika had a baby and then just before recording the debut album "Ten" in January 2006, she had another one! Before long, disillusion with the bands lack of action and direction (not playing many gigs, rehearsing only sporadically) she graciously put her bass back in its box and said adios. In 2007 Laurence joined as bass player bringing a new funky energy to the overall sound.