Birmingham indie four-piece The Clause is set to captivate audiences at The Market Stage with their dynamic presence. Comprised of frontman Pearce Macca, guitarist Liam Deakin, bassist Jonny Fyffe, and drummer Niall Fennell, the band is making waves in anticipation of their debut album, Victim Of A Casual Thing.
Pearce explains that their first single, “Nothing’s As It Seems,” captures the essence of “growing up, being skint” in Birmingham. The track delves into the emotional struggle of watching dreams slip away while those around appear to have everything sorted. Despite these trials, the song resonates with themes of clinging to music and authenticity.
The band’s journey through smaller venues and word-of-mouth success has endowed them with resilience. Pearce reflects on the experience: “Acts that stand the test of time usually have to haul themselves up from nothing.” They draw inspiration from DIY bands like The Reytons and The Sherlocks, who forged their paths independently until their success became undeniable.
The challenges the band faced were numerous, including the loss of a record deal due to the Covid lockdowns. However, overcoming these setbacks has shaped their current identity: “Having to go and kick doors down makes you who you are.” The Clause now boasts an impressive repertoire, performing nationwide, with an end-of-year tour culminating in a significant homecoming at Birmingham’s O2 Academy in December.
Playing in large venues is both surreal and affirming for Pearce: “It’s been a long time coming, but it’s the right time for us. It’s exciting, we’re bubbling at the minute. We are in the biggest year of our lives. You only make your debut album once.” The anticipation surrounding Victim Of A Casual Thing is palpable, marking a pivotal moment in their journey.
Fans might recall The Clause’s last performance in Oxfordshire during independent music week at The Bullingdon on Cowley Road. Although they initially sought to remain independent, the realities of the industry necessitated joining a label for their first album, crucial for marketing and promotion support. Pearce shares, “Up until now, it has always been just us against the world, funding everything through the band.”
Pearce, Johnny, and Niall’s musical journey began at age 12, playing rock covers before performing their first sold-out gig at The Rainbow in Digbeth, Birmingham. Reflecting on those formative years, Pearce says, “We look back fondly on those years; we’ll never forget them, and they made us who we are.”
Rooted in Birmingham and Solihull, the band’s ambitions are inspired by notable alumni from Pearce’s school, St Peter’s, including GB tennis player Dan Evans, commentator Karen Carney, and England star Jack Grealish. Pearce also shares a passion for Gaelic football, inherited from his Irish family, aligning with Grealish’s impressive sports trajectory.
The Clause is scheduled to perform at Truck Festival today, July 25. Their debut album, Victim Of A Casual Thing, releases on October 17. For more details, visit Truck Festival. For those inspired by their journey, consider creating a free business profile or exploring local activities via our business directory.
