The Sherlocks
The Sherlocks are an English indie rock band formed in 2010 in the village of Bolton upon Dearne, South Yorkshire, renowned for their high-energy live shows and anthemic guitar-driven sound that has garnered chart success and sold-out tours across the UK and Europe.[1][2] Originally comprising two pairs of brothers—Kiaran Crook (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), Brandon Crook (drums), Josh Davidson (lead guitar), and Andy Davidson (bass)—the band began by covering classic rock tracks in local garages before transitioning to original material.[3][4] In March 2020, the Davidson brothers departed, and the lineup was refreshed with guitarist Alex Procter and bassist Trent Jackson joining the Crook siblings, marking a new chapter that influenced their subsequent releases.[4][5] The band's debut album, Live for the Moment (2017), peaked at No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and established them as one of the UK's rising indie acts, followed by Under Your Sky (2019), World I Understand (2022), People Like Me & You (2023), and their most recent studio album, Everything Must Make Sense (2025), which continues their tradition of blending raw emotion with stadium-ready hooks.[6][7] Notable for being one of the first unsigned bands since Arctic Monkeys to achieve widespread acclaim through grassroots buzz, The Sherlocks have performed at major festivals like Reading and Leeds and maintain a dedicated fanbase with their unpretentious, working-class ethos rooted in their Yorkshire origins.[1][8]Band members
Current members
The current lineup of The Sherlocks, as of November 2025, consists of brothers Kiaran Crook and Brandon Crook, along with Alex Procter and Trent Jackson.[9] Kiaran Crook performs lead vocals and rhythm guitar, while serving as the band's primary songwriter and key creative force behind its lyrics and melodies; he was born in Bolton upon Dearne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire.[10][11][12] Brandon Crook, Kiaran's brother, plays drums and provides the band's rhythmic foundation.[10] Alex Procter joined in November 2020 as lead guitarist, contributing solos and arrangements to the band's sound.[13] Trent Jackson joined at the same time as bassist, delivering bass lines and enhancing the group's stage dynamics.[13]Former members
The Sherlocks' original lineup featured two sets of brothers: Kiaran and Brandon Crook alongside Andy and Josh Davidson, who served as the band's primary former members. Andy Davidson joined as the bassist in the band's formation around 2009 and remained until 2020, contributing to their early development and performing on the debut album Live for the Moment (2017) as well as the follow-up Under Your Sky (2019).[14][12] Josh Davidson, Andy's brother, handled lead guitar duties from the band's inception in 2009 through 2020, also playing a key role in the group's initial songwriting and live performances during their breakthrough period. The Davidson brothers decided to leave in March 2020 following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of planned U.S. tour dates, with the departure announced in October 2020; they cited a desire to step away from the music industry and pursue personal endeavors outside touring and recording.[11][15][14][16] No other long-term former members or documented session musicians from the band's early years have been publicly detailed in official announcements. Their exit paved the way for the recruitment of Alex Procter on guitar and Trent Jackson on bass, solidifying the current lineup by late 2020.[14]History
Formation and early career (2009–2016)
The Sherlocks were formed in 2010 in Bolton upon Dearne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, by brothers Kiaran Crook (lead vocals and guitar) and Brandon Crook (drums), who were joined by brothers Andy Davidson (bass) and Josh Davidson (guitar). The band originated casually when the Davidson brothers moved next door to the Crooks' grandparents, leading to informal jamming sessions that evolved into a group after Kiaran and Brandon heard Josh playing guitar on New Year's Eve. Their father, Michael Crook, supported the project by acting as an early manager.[17][18] Drawing inspiration from the vibrant local indie scene in South Yorkshire, the band was influenced by acts such as Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, and The Libertines, blending raw guitar-driven rock with anthemic energy reflective of their working-class roots. In the early stages, The Sherlocks honed their sound through performances at pubs and small venues across Yorkshire, gradually building a grassroots following without initial plans for a professional career.[19][18][20] The group self-released their debut EP, Conflict, in 2012 on their own Not On Label imprint, followed by Think For Yourself and First Bite Of The Apple in 2013, along with the demo album Carr Green Demos. These independent efforts captured their energetic indie rock style and helped secure airplay on BBC Radio 1's Introducing stage, where they recorded sessions and gained exposure as a promising South Yorkshire act. By 2015 and 2016, singles like "Heart of Gold" and "Escapade" further elevated their profile, with the latter released on the small Walk Tall Recordings label.[21][22] In 2016, The Sherlocks achieved a breakthrough in live bookings, performing at festivals including Reading and Leeds, Live at Leeds, Dot to Dot, and SXSW in Austin, Texas, which showcased their rising momentum on the UK indie circuit. That December, they signed a record deal with Infectious Music, a BMG imprint, marking the end of their independent phase and setting the stage for their debut album.[23][24][25][26]Live for the Moment and breakthrough (2017–2018)
In early 2017, The Sherlocks recorded their debut album Live for the Moment at Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, South Wales, with producer Gavin Monaghan overseeing the sessions to capture the band's raw live energy while adding elements like guitar overdubs, strings, and keyboards.[27][28] The album was released on 18 August 2017 through Infectious Music, a BMG imprint, and debuted at number 6 on the UK Albums Chart, marking a commercial breakthrough after years of building a grassroots following through independent releases and performances.[6][29] The lead single "Chasing Shadows," released earlier that year with an accompanying music video in April, became a cornerstone of the album's promotion, showcasing the band's urgent, riff-driven indie rock style and helping to propel their visibility.[30] To support the release, The Sherlocks embarked on their first major headline UK tour in February 2017, a two-month run that included stops in cities like Inverness, Manchester, and London, drawing enthusiastic crowds and solidifying their reputation as a high-energy live act.[31] Critics praised Live for the Moment for its anthemic, footie-chant-ready songs and echoes of early 2000s indie rock, with reviewers noting the album's driving guitars and frontman Kiaran Crook's beguiling vocals as key to its infectious appeal.[32][33] The record also garnered significant radio support, including airplay and live sessions on BBC Radio 1 from presenter Huw Stephens, who championed the band through BBC Introducing as an exciting emerging act from Sheffield.[34] This exposure contributed to the album's momentum, positioning The Sherlocks as a rising force in the UK indie scene by late 2017.[35]Under Your Sky and lineup changes (2019–2020)
Following the success of their debut album Live for the Moment, The Sherlocks released their second studio album, Under Your Sky, on October 4, 2019, via Infectious Music. The record, produced in Liverpool with assistance from The Coral's James Skelly, debuted at number 20 on the UK Albums Chart.[36][37] It was supported by lead singles including "NYC (Sing It Loud)" in June 2019 and the title track "Under Your Sky" in early October, alongside "Waiting" released in August.[37][38] In March 2020, following the release of Under Your Sky, original members Josh Davidson (guitar) and Andy Davidson (bass) departed the band to focus on other pursuits. To stabilize the group, The Sherlocks recruited guitarist Alex Procter and bassist Trent Jackson later in 2020, integrating them into the core lineup alongside brothers Kiaran and Brandon Crook.[14][11] These changes altered the band's dynamics, infusing fresh energy into their collaborative process and allowing for a more experimental approach in live settings, though the core recording for Under Your Sky had already been completed with the prior configuration.[8] The album's promotion was hampered by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, which limited touring opportunities to a brief low-key UK run in March before restrictions took effect, forcing the cancellation or postponement of further dates.[39] This disruption tested the band's resilience during a pivotal growth phase, as the new members adapted amid halted momentum. Critics praised Under Your Sky for its evolution toward more mature themes of urban exploration, fleeting relationships, and personal reflection, contrasting the youthful exuberance of the debut while retaining the band's anthemic indie rock edge.[40][41] Reviews highlighted tracks like "Magic Man" and "Dreams" for their introspective lyrics and polished production, signaling a band maturing alongside its audience.[42]World I Understand and People Like Me & You (2021–2023)
Following the lineup changes that stabilized in 2020, The Sherlocks entered a period of creative resurgence amid the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Their third studio album, World I Understand, was released on January 21, 2022, through their independent label TeddyBoy Records.[43] The record debuted and peaked at No. 9 on the UK Albums Chart, their highest charting position to date at that point, with over 5,000 sales equivalents in its first week.[36] Influenced by the enforced pause in touring, the album explores themes of introspection and reflection, capturing the band's experiences of isolation and personal reassessment during lockdown.[4] Key singles included "City Lights," released in August 2021 as a lead preview with its anthemic indie rock drive, and "Falling," which highlighted the album's energetic guitar riffs and nostalgic undertones.[4] Critics praised the production for its polished yet raw sound, blending alt-rock urgency with subtle electronic elements, while noting the lyrical depth in tracks like the title song, which conveys emotional release and resilience.[15][44] The band marked their return to live performances in 2021 with a series of UK shows, performing 39 concerts that year as restrictions eased, rebuilding momentum with high-energy sets that emphasized their raw stage presence.[45] This paved the way for expanded touring, including a headline UK run in early 2022 spanning venues from Blackpool to London, where they showcased material from World I Understand to enthusiastic crowds.[46] By 2022, they broadened their reach with European dates, incorporating stops in Germany and the Netherlands alongside domestic gigs, totaling 67 live appearances that year and solidifying their growing international appeal.[45] Support slots with established acts further elevated their profile, though their independent ethos shone through in self-managed tours that prioritized fan connection over large-scale productions. Building on this foundation, The Sherlocks released their fourth album, People Like Me & You, on August 4, 2023, again via TeddyBoy Records.[47] It achieved their career-best chart performance, debuting at No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart.[6] The album reflects themes of personal growth, nostalgia, and evolving relationships, drawing from the band's maturation as they navigated adulthood and career milestones, with lyrics that balance introspection and optimism.[48][49] Representative singles included "Sirens," a February 2023 release featuring driving rhythms and a call-to-action vibe, and "Don't Let It Out," which arrived in March with its urgent narrative on suppressing emotions amid daily struggles.[50][51] Reviews highlighted the album's production evolution, crediting its expansive sound—infused with glam-rock textures and dynamic builds—for showcasing the band's artistic progression, alongside lyrics that offered relatable depth on themes like ageing and connection.[52][49] Live activity intensified in 2023 with over 70 shows, including an extensive UK headline tour in October and November that extended to European legs, allowing the band to test new material in intimate venues and larger halls alike.[45] This period underscored The Sherlocks' resilience, as they transitioned from pandemic-induced hiatus to a prolific phase of recording and touring, earning acclaim for delivering authentic, high-octane indie rock that resonated with fans seeking escapist energy and emotional honesty.[53]Everything Must Make Sense and recent developments (2024–2025)
In early 2025, The Sherlocks announced their fifth studio album, Everything Must Make Sense!, originally slated for release on February 21 but delayed to May 16 due to production adjustments.[54] The album was recorded primarily in 2024 at various studios in South Yorkshire, capturing the band's evolving sound with a focus on high-energy tracks that blend indie rock with electronic elements. Released independently via TeddyBoy Records, it features 10 songs, including the lead single "Death of Me" from late 2024, followed by "Man on the Loose" and "Bones" in early 2025, and the title track in April. These singles emphasize the album's chaotic energy, with "Bones" particularly noted for its gritty, beat-driven intensity reminiscent of electronic pioneers like The Prodigy.[55][56] A deluxe digital edition, including bonus tracks such as "Tough Times Don't Last" and "Better Alone," was made available alongside the standard release on May 16.[57] The album debuted at No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart, marking the band's joint-highest chart position and matching the success of their 2023 release People Like Me & You.[58] Promotion included music videos for the singles, radio play on BBC Radio 1 and 6 Music, and social media campaigns urging fans to stream and purchase to push for a No. 1 debut, though it ultimately settled behind international releases.[59] The record's themes of mental health struggles and modern anxieties resonated with listeners, while its electronic-infused production—drawing from acts like The Prodigy—signaled a sonic shift that broadened the band's appeal beyond traditional indie rock audiences. Critical reception praised the chaotic, anthemic vibe, with outlets highlighting tracks like "Bedlam Town" for their raw, live-wire urgency.[60] In August 2025, The Sherlocks announced an extensive 29-date UK headline tour to support the album, kicking off on October 10 at Manchester's Albert Hall and running through December.[61] However, by early November, the band was forced to postpone several dates, including shows in Norwich, Cambridge, and Bristol, after frontman Kiaran Crook fell ill with severe vocal strain following a "tough few days."[62] The group emphasized the need for recovery to ensure full performance quality, rescheduling the affected gigs for early 2026 while expressing regret to fans. Despite these setbacks, the band's independent status on TeddyBoy Records has sustained steady fanbase growth, with sold-out pre-tour shows and increased merchandise sales reflecting a loyal following built over years of grassroots promotion.[9]Musical style and influences
Musical style
The Sherlocks are primarily classified as an indie rock band, incorporating elements of garage rock and alternative rock in their sound. Their music is characterized by energetic guitar riffs, anthemic choruses, and raw, soaring vocals that convey a sense of urgency and relatability.[63][32][15] The band's style has evolved from a raw, Oasis-inspired debut sound marked by straightforward, high-energy rock to a more polished and introspective approach post-2019, integrating electronic and synth elements for added depth. This progression is evident in their shift toward stadium-sized productions with cinematic tension and release, while maintaining core indie rock foundations.[15][55][64] Central to their sound are the tight vocal harmonies delivered by brothers Kiaran and Brandon Crook, which add emotional layering to tracks. Their production emphasizes a live-oriented feel, featuring distortion on guitars, pounding drums, and dynamic tempo shifts that build from introspective verses to explosive choruses.[65][55][63] Often compared to contemporaries like Catfish and the Bottlemen and Arctic Monkeys, The Sherlocks distinguish themselves through lyrics rooted in Yorkshire working-class experiences, exploring themes of everyday struggles and industrial grit.[15][32][63]Influences
The Sherlocks' early inspirations were rooted in the local indie rock scene, particularly the Arctic Monkeys, whose grassroots ethos and Sheffield origins resonated with the brothers Kiaran and Brandon Crook as they formed the band in their hometown of Bolton upon Dearne.[66] This regional connection fostered a DIY spirit, while broader rock influences like Oasis shaped their anthemic song structures and Britpop swagger, evident from Kiaran Crook's formative listening to albums such as (What's the Story) Morning Glory? during his teenage years.[67] Similarly, The Clash provided punk energy and rebellious attitude, inspiring the band's raw, high-octane live performances and socially charged themes, as cited by Crook in discussions of their melodic rock foundations.[68] As the band's sound evolved, broader influences expanded their palette, incorporating Motown's soulful harmonies to add emotional depth and vocal layering to their indie rock.[69] In later works, such as the track "BONES" from their 2025 album Everything Must Make Sense!, elements of electronic-rock fusion emerged, drawing from Primal Scream's experimental psychedelia and The Prodigy's drum-and-bass intensity to create boundary-pushing choruses and bass-heavy production.[70] Heavier textures were introduced via Bring Me the Horizon, influencing guitarist Trent Jackson's interest in modern metal riffs that blend with the band's core guitar-driven sound.[66] Member-specific tastes further diversified their output: Brandon Crook has cited The Strokes for their angular guitar riffs and urban cool. Jackson, meanwhile, pulls from old-school rock staples, grounding the band's heavier moments in classic hard rock traditions. These influences manifest prominently in the Sherlocks' lyrics, which often explore everyday life struggles and youthful rebellion, channeling the narrative intimacy of Oasis and the defiant spirit of The Clash to craft relatable anthems about working-class experiences and personal defiance.[71][68][72]Discography
Studio albums
The Sherlocks have released five studio albums to date, all of which have charted in the top 20 of the UK Albums Chart.[36]| Album | Released | Label | UK peak | Formats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live for the Moment | 18 August 2017 | Infectious Music | 6 | CD, LP, digital download |
| Under Your Sky | 4 October 2019 | Infectious Music | 20 | CD, LP, digital download |
| World I Understand | 21 January 2022 | TeddyBoy Records | 9 | CD, LP, digital download |
| People Like Me & You | 11 August 2023 | TeddyBoy Records | 4 | CD, LP, digital download |
| Everything Must Make Sense! | 16 May 2025 | TeddyBoy Records | 4 | CD, LP, digital download |
Singles and EPs
The Sherlocks began their recording career with a series of self-released EPs in the early 2010s, establishing their indie rock sound through independent efforts. These included Conflict in 2012, followed by Think For Yourself and First Bite of the Apple in 2013, all distributed via CD formats without major label support.[21] Their transition to singles started with self-released tracks like "Live for the Moment" in 2014 and "Escapade" in 2015, building momentum ahead of their debut album. Signing to Infectious Music, they issued "Will You Be There?" on January 13, 2017, and "Was It Really Worth It?" on January 26, 2017, both as limited-edition 7-inch vinyl singles. The breakthrough single "Chasing Shadows," released on September 15, 2017, peaked at number 42 on the UK Official Physical Singles Chart and number 26 on the UK Vinyl Singles Chart, serving as a key promoter for their album Live for the Moment.[80][81] In 2019, "NYC (Sing It Loud)" was released on September 27 as a limited clear vinyl single, topping the UK Official Vinyl Singles Chart at number 1 and supporting Under Your Sky, with the title track "Under Your Sky" following digitally on October 1.[82] Post-2020, amid lineup changes and independent releases under TeddyBoy Records, the band shifted toward digital-first distribution with optional physical editions, reflecting broader industry trends. Notable promotional singles included "End of the Earth" in 2021 and "Falling" in 2022, both self-released on vinyl. For World I Understand, singles including "Falling" (July 2021), "City Lights" (August 2021), and "World I Understand" (October 2021) were released, gaining traction through streaming without major chart entries.[83][84][85] The 2023 album People Like Me & You was previewed with "Sirens" on February 3, a high-energy lead single emphasizing themes of resilience, and "Don't Let It Out" on March 31, featuring raw guitar riffs and emotional lyrics; both were released digitally with accompanying videos. "Remember All the Girls" followed later in 2023 as a promotional track.[50][51] For their 2025 album Everything Must Make Sense, singles included "Death of Me" on May 17, 2024, "Man on the Loose" on September 27, 2024, and "Bones" on November 29, 2024, all digital releases highlighting the band's evolving punk-infused sound; these tracks, along with the title track issued as a single in early 2025, focused on personal introspection without significant chart entries but strong streaming performance.[86]| Title | Release Date | UK Chart Peak | Parent Album/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chasing Shadows | September 15, 2017 | No. 42 (Physical Singles) | Live for the Moment (lead single) |
| Under Your Sky | October 1, 2019 | - | Under Your Sky (title track) |
| Sirens | February 3, 2023 | - | People Like Me & You (lead single) |
| Don't Let It Out | March 31, 2023 | - | People Like Me & You |
| Bones | November 29, 2024 | - | Everything Must Make Sense |
| Man on the Loose | September 27, 2024 | - | Everything Must Make Sense |