Cover Drive

Cover Drive today become the fifth recipients of the all-new Official Singles Chart Number 1 Award. The band were oficially presented with their award live on Radio 1’s Official Chart with Reggie Yates.

The new award scheme has been introduced by the Official Charts Company to mark the start of 2012 – the 60th anniversary of the Official Singles Chart, and the brushed aluminium trophy will be presented weekly to every new Number 1 single from now on. The first recipient was the Official Christmas Number 1 of 2011, the Military Wives.

Theofficialcharts.com caught up with Cover Drive to give them a sneak preview of their Official Number 1 Award.

The band said:

“Arghhhh! We’re Number 1! Woooh! We’ve got this amazing trophy from the Official Charts and we’re so happy, we’re going to put it on our shelf!”

“We just want to thank everyone who supported the record, thankyou so much for buying Twilight and for requesting it on the radio. We’re so happy and excited and grateful, we can’t even explain. Please don’t judge us for our girly screams!”

“We went from starting with videos and covers in T-Ray’s basement and putting them up on YouTube as this little band from Barbados to being Number 1 on the charts!”

Check out the video interview to see the band with their shiny Number 1 award, talking about new single Twilight, how it felt to open for Rihanna in Barbados, oh and their most important musical influence…The Little Mermaid.
- officialcharts.com

Bajan quartet Cover Drive went straight to No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart yesterday (Jan. 29) with "Twilight" (Global Talent/Universal). Ed Sheeran's hit debut album "+" (Asylum/Warner Music) moved back 2-1 for its third separate stint at the summit.

Video: Cover Drive, "Twlight"

Cover Drive reached No. 9 last September with their first British hit "Lick Ya Down" which will, like the new chart-topper, be on the group's debut album "Bajan Style." Selling 76,000 copies, "Twilight" took over at No. 1 from Jessie J's "Domino" (Lava/Universal Island), which fell to No. 3, although her album "Who You Are" jumped 10-7. "Titanium" (Positiva/Virgin/EMI) by David Guetta featuring Sia climbed 3-2 (66,000) and Australian artist Sia now has the distinction of simultaneous top five guest appearances, with "Wild Ones" (Atlantic/Warner Music), the Flo Rida single on which she features, debuting at No. 5. Flo Rida himself has two current top ten hits, with his former No. 1 "Good Feeling."

Sia isn't the only artist making this a proud week for Australian-nurtured talent on the U.K. charts. "Somebody That I Used To Know" (Universal Island) by Gotye featuring Kimbra continued its progress with a 21-7 climb. Gotye was born in Bruges, Belgium, but his parents moved to Melbourne when he was two. He has gone on to win five ARIA Awards. "Somebody..." is his first U.K. chart entry.

Also moving into the new top ten were Kelly Clarkson's "Stronger" (RCA/Sony Music Entertainment), 11-8, and "International Love" (J/Sony Music Entertainment) by Pitbull featuring Chris Brown, 13-10.

Sheeran's album now has U.K. sales of just under 881,000, according to the Official Charts Company, but only needed to shift 20,000 new units to regain the peak. Coldplay's "Mylo Xyloto" (Parlophone/EMI) climbed again, 3-2, as Adele's "21" (XL Recordings) moved into its second chart year by falling 1-3. Bruno Mars moved back 5-4 with "Doo-Wops & Hooligans" (Elektra/Warner Music) and Rizzle Kicks' "Stereo Typical" (Universal Island) improved 9-5.

Coldplay, Mumford & Sons To Headline First NYC Secret Policeman's Ball

There was a notable chart comeback for Chris Isaak, whose album combining remakes of Sun Records artists' hits and new material, "Beyond The Sun" (Rhino/Warner Music), debuted at No. 6. That's the first time he's even been in the top 40 of the U.K. survey since "Forever Blue" reached No. 27 in 1995, and his highest ranking since he made his album chart debut with "Wicked Game," which climbed as high as No. 3 in 1991. "Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds" (Sour Mash) moved 12-9.

The compilation chart saw a new leader, as the nine-week reign of "Now! That's What I Call Music 80" (EMI TV/Universal Music TV) was ended by Sony Music's "Be My Baby," a new collection of 1960s material by female groups and soloists, from the Ronettes and the Supremes to Peggy Lee and Nina Simone. - Billboard.com

And if the sight of slinky Amanda Reifer isn’t enough to get your temperature rising, then the Cover Drive singer’s No1 smash Twilight sure will.

The bright Carib rhythms from the four-piece – Amanda, guitarist Barry “Bar-Man” Hill, 22, bassist Jamar “Toast” Harding, 18, and drummer T-Ray Armstrong, 18, are shaking off the winter blues.

Last year the group emerged with saucy Top 10 smash Lick Ya Down and Amanda was quickly thrust into the spotlight, gaining celebrity admirers including the likes of Tinie Tempah, 23.

Amanda says: “It’s nearly six months since Lick Ya Down and we wanted to start 2012 the right way – with a No1 single. We love the song Twilight so we thought it was the best way to begin the new year.”

While the innuendo-laden title of their first track was nothing more than a cheeky play on words – in Barbados to lick ya down actually means to give someone a right telling off – it put Cover Drive on the map in the UK.

The group, who divide their time between Chiswick, west London, and Barbados, won’t lose touch with home after being backed publicly by the island’s most famous export since Mount Gay rum – 23-year-old RiRi.

“We opened for Rihanna in Barbados at some shows,” reveals Amanda.

“She’s been so supportive, giving us really good advice. It would be great to work with her in the US.

“If we had the opportunity to open for her in the States that would be amazing.”

Thanks to her uncanny similarity to sexy Rihanna in her SOS days (before the good girl went bad), Amanda is being chased by modelling firms and fashion labels desperate to take her toned body from the stage to the catwalk.

But it is clear that her music is her primary focus.


Amanda continues: “Right now it’s all about the UK because you guys have an appreciation for different kinds of music.
“We get to connect with our fans on a more intimate level here, too. There’s not much of an industry at home in Barbados.

“Sure there’s talent but no scene as such. We get a lot of UK and US artists on the radio, along with Caribbean music.”

Cover Drive have co-written their upcoming debut album alongside hit-making producers such as JR Rotem, the man behind smashes for JLS and Jason Derulo.

Steve Mac, who has masterminded most of Westlife’s career, and edgy music makers Future Cut were also involved. But while the band can’t get enough of our airwaves, they’re still less than impressed with our iffy weather.

“We are still adapting,” laughs Amanda.

“It’s an intense change to what we’re used to. We are going back and forth – we don’t live here full time – so at least we can go and soak up some sun.

“Mind you, we lost all our air miles as we forgot our numbers so we can’t get upgrades. We are in economy in the smallest seats each time.”

Although she’s the only lass in the group, Amanda doesn’t mind sharing a pad with her bandmates.

“We’ve been living together for two years now and we’ve known each other for a really long time,” she explains.

“I’m a bit of a tomboy, so I can hold my own. At the end of the day it’s cool to be the only girl in the band because I get special attention. We fight sometimes, of course, but they are cool.”

The group was named after a cricket term – Bajans love the sport. Initially they were solo musicians but Amanda’s manager had the canny idea of merging them and less than a year after posting a cover on YouTube they landed a record deal.

And 2012 is looking full of epic moments for the gorgeous babe.

“I turn 21 this year and I’m nervous about it,” she reflects.

“I can no longer use the old teenager excuses. I have to grow up now. But I’m still going to party with the boys.”

Quite right too…

Cover Drive play at the HMV Next Big Thing '12 festival next month. - Daily Star

Cover Drive drummer/rapper T-Ray Armstrong, 18, talks to Metro about Rihanna’s words of advice for the Bajan group, the differences between clubs in London and Barbados and awkward questions on German television.

What can people expect from your debut album Bajan Style?

T-Ray Armstrong is the drummer for Cover Drive
Sunshine. It will make you feel you’re at a beach party in Barbados.

You like metal, apparently. Is there any of that on the album?

No, I put away the double pedals for this album. Maybe we can incorporate them on the next one.

Who do you like listening to?

Trivium, Avenged Sevenfold, Linkin Park – which isn’t really heavy metal but I still like them – and Bullet For My Valentine.

What was the first record you bought?

Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park. I love them. Listening to how their raps flow helped me out doing my own stuff. As a drummer, you want to listen to faster-paced music to build speed, which is how I got into System Of A Down and metal.

What are the pros and cons of living in Barbados?

Only pros. I have a test for you – go out to Barbados and try to find something wrong with it. There’s nothing. It’s like heaven. The food’s great, the people are nice, the beaches are golden. The only thing I’d maybe say is it’s really laid-back and slow, so coming to London, where everything’s go, go, go, takes a minute to adjust.

If Barbados is so great, it must make touring disappointing.

No, we love what we do and are so happy going around the place, promoting our music and playing for people.

What is the most unusual place you’ve played so far?

We recently did a TV show in Germany. The performance was awesome but the interview afterwards was really weird. It was five minutes of German, which we didn’t understand, then they asked a question in English that was quite awkward.

What did they ask?

They asked us if we thought Whitney Houston’s death was an accident. We said we were all really saddened by it, we had no idea what happened to her but her music was timeless and we all really liked it.

What do you like about Britain?

We love Britain. I love the energy of the fans. I love London but Brighton’s really pretty – the sea air reminds me of home. Clubbing in London is a lot different to back home. There’s a lot more pop played here, at least in clubs in the West End. Back home, you gyrate and groove a lot more. Here it’s more fist pumping and jumping up and down.

Do you know Rihanna?

We don’t know her very well but we opened for her in August and got to talk to her. She’s really nice.

She’s been criticised for being too saucy. Are your lyrics appropriate for a child to sing along to?

Yes, they’re just about feeling good. Our single Twilight is about friends transitioning into lovers. We don’t write those edgy songs because that’s not who we are. Rihanna can give her performances because that’s who she is. We’re not really like that.

Are you worried your singer, Amanda, is going to leave for a solo career soon?

No. We love playing together and we’ve found ourselves within the band. There are no plans to ditch the project and go solo.

What’s the worst advice you’ve been given in your career?

We’ve only been given good advice, really. It’s all gone very well. Rihanna told us to keep doing what we do and make the island proud; Eddy Grant told us to remember it’s all about the music. We haven’t had any bad advice, apart from the occasional person who’ll tell you to run up a wall because it’s good for you.

It’s all happened very quickly, hasn’t it?

Really fast. Last year we were doing covers in my basement. Now we’re in the charts. It’s mind-blowing. We didn’t cover stuff we couldn’t make our own. People have been surprised by us taking pop records and making them really home-grown and sunshiny. We did Jennifer Lopez’s I’m Into You and Rude Boy by Rihanna.

What was the first song you wrote?

A song called Almost There when I was 11. It didn’t have any structure or topic. It was just random words that rhymed. It was quite upbeat.

What are the perks of success?

We get to see new places and meet new people. We do photoshoots and sometimes ask if we can keep things. I got a crazy pair of Nikes the other day – the swoosh is Velcro, which you can customise. We also get taken out to dinner a lot. We love to eat. We really like fish and chips, it’s a little greasy but good.

Have you had a pickled egg?

No, no, no – or mushy peas or Marmite.

Have you ever had a supernatural experience?

I was on my way home when I was 11 and thought I saw a shooting star. It was going down in the sky then suddenly stopped, then went back up again. It freaked me out.

Was it a spaceship?

I don’t know. I don’t like thinking about it too much. If they’re out there, then good for them, but don’t come here. I don’t want to meet any aliens.
- Metro.co.uk

Last year we just couldn’t get their incredibly infectious ‘Twilight’ out of our head for months and since then Cover Drive have gone on to become one of Barbados’ biggest musical exports since Rihanna. Even President Barack Obama’s a massive fan! But now our favourite reggae pop foursome are back with a new EP and a cracking new single ‘Lovesick Riddim’ available September 23 and we couldn’t be happier to have them back. And luckily for you we caught up with the beautiful (and insanely sweet) Amanda from the band to find out just what they’ve been up to since hitting the big time here in the UK. Read below to find out how their second album’s coming along as well as what she really thought of Miley Cyrus’ now infamous performance at the VMAs and what Rihanna’s really like on tour. Cover Drive hit the bigtime last year with their number one single 'Twilight' (Thomas Faehnrich/WENN.com) Check out our interview with the lovely Amanda below... Your new single 'Lovesick Riddim' comes out later this month, how would you describe the song for anyone who hasn’t heard it? It’s a pop reggae ballad, it’s a really sad song about missing the love of your life and regretting whatever happened. It’s just a beautiful song that everyone should listen to at the end of the summer when you’re thinking of people you love. Is it autobiographical? I definitely pull from my own experiences in my life and I put that into my writing so it definitely has me in it. It’s the first single to be taken from your new EP – is it a good reflection of what we can expect from your second album? This single’s taken from our new EP, which is just coming out we’re still working on our new album. Our fans have been asking for music and we didn’t want to leave them waiting for too long so we’re releasing this EP while we’re still working on our second album. So the EP's called ‘Liming in Limbo’ and it’s a good indication of what it sounds like. So it’s a really good intro single to the new EP, we’re really excited about it. So it’s a bit of a taster for fans then? Definitely, it’s a bit of reggae pop, a little more musically advanced from what we did last time. We’ve grown a lot and we’ve been through a lot since our last album so we put that into our music a little more. Are you going to be releasing anymore music from the EP? Definitely, so 'Lovesick Riddim' comes out on September 23 and that’s the first single and then there will be more singles and we’re going to be shooting the video for that one shortly. For the 'Lovesick Riddim' video we actually directed and edited that video ourselves. It was a challenge but it was totally worth it, we loved it. How do you think you’ve grown as a band since your debut? I think we’ve definitely grown as individuals. Obviously when we worked on our first album in Barbados we were just four kids, we hadn’t really experienced too much, we were literally just chilling on the island and making music. So the first album was just carefree it was fun, fun in the sun. But since then it’s been another three years and we’ve grown, we’ve been through a lot so we’ve definitely put that in the music. When do you think we’ll be able to get to hear the album? Oh my gosh, I wish I could give you some dates to be honest but we’re working on it and we want it to be perfect. We’ve worked hard on it. Our last album took over a year to write and we wrote over a hundred songs before we decided what songs were going to appear on the album and for this album the process has been kind of similar. So we’re still working on that, we can’t give you exact dates but it’s like our fans have been asking us and so we decided to just put out a few songs in the process. Who have you been working with on the album? We’ve been working with Boy Wonder and Supa Dup. We’ve also been working with Angela Hunt. Writing with ourselves here in Barbados and with some Bajan producers as well and we wanted to work with people we enjoyed working with last time on the album and people we had a connection with so that’s what we’re doing. The process mainly is, we write a few songs then we go into session and mainly write a few more songs. How different was it working on the second album to the first now you’ve managed to establish yourself and your sound – did you have more control over this record? Yes we definitely do, we have complete creative control over this record and we really want it to reflect who we are in this moment. Since the last album we’ve all grown as musicians and people and I think the songs on here definitely show that, show that evolution and working on the second album and working on the songs leading up to the second album reflect where we’re going lyrically, where we’re going musically. Your second single ‘Twilight’ was a huge hit here going straight in at number one – did you expect it become such a success over here? You know what we never expected it, it was - Entertainmentwise.com

We catch up with Amanda and T-Ray

The last time we spoke to Cover Drive at T4 on the Beach, they gave us some style tips and taught us some Caribbean dance moves.

Now, fresh from their performance at V Festival 2012, and on the cusp of releasing their fourth single, Explode, they couldn't resist having a chat with 4music.com to tell us what's been going on.

We caught up with Amanda and a very mischievous T- Ray who dished the dirt on what is was like working with Dappy and how it felt to hang with will.i.am.

The last time we spoke to you was at T4OTB. How has your summer been since then?

Oh my god. That seems so long ago now. We just played V Festival. That was such a dream come true! We’ve been playing some gigs around the UK, we went to Barbados too, so a lot has happened.

So your song Explode is being released this weekend. Tell us a little bit about the track and why you chose it for your next single?

We always loved the song and it was always a contender for the single. We always loved it after Twilight. And it was summer, so we thought it was just perfect. I love the song so much and it was even better when we sent it over to Dappy and he put a verse on it and what came out was amazing. It made it even more of single.

Obviously you toured with Dappy before, how was it working with him again on the track and in the video?

Oh my god it was so much fun and ‘cause we’ve toured with him it was obviously so overdue! When he sent it back we loved it so much. We didn’t even know if he would be in the video or not but he showed up and did a cameo and he was so professional and so talented. That’s one thing that people don’t realise about him. It was really great working with him to be honest.

Did he play any pranks or did he keep it strictly professional?

No, he didn’t play any pranks but he was talking to all the girls and hitting on the girls in the shoot. It was pretty hilarious.

Are you hoping the song will live up to its name and you’ll explode the charts, gaining a UK No 1?

We would love a UK No 1 that would be amazing. To have another No 1 would be incredible. We are so excited about what has happened so far. It’s something we thought would never even happen, so it’s incredible.

Do you have any dream collabs that you’d like to do or anyone you’re gonna be working with in the future?

We would love to do something with Ed Sheeran. He’s a really cool guy and we really respect him as an artist so it would be cool. Also No Doubt. They’ve just reformed and we LOVE them. We so would love to work with them.

The first time we spoke to you, you told us you were starstruck by the likes of Jessie J and Rihanna. Have you come across anyone since then who you’ve been blown away by?

We met will.i.am and he is so cool. We can’t believe that he talked to us. And, he talked to us for like an hour. That was another moment. We weren’t struck so much – we held our own! But yeah, he was very cool and he gave us great advice.

Can you share any of the advice he gave?

Obviously, he’s been up there as a band with the Black Eyed Peas. He was just giving us advice about always forward thinking, sticking together as a group and not letting the whole isolation thing happen. People do try to separate me from the boys but really we’re in this together. We’re a band first and foremost. That’s the most important thing to us. Music is the most important thing. That’s why we’re here.

Speaking of being in a band, what’s it like being in a group with just boys? What are the pros and cons?

The pros are that they are really easy-going. Guys don’t do that petty argument thing like girls do. Girls can be really catty and guys just don’t care. I also have three guys looking out for me all the time, so I always feel safe. The cons are that I always have three guys looking out for me all the time. Haha, so no guys ever come and talk to me. And boxers on the floor can be a bit much.

Yeah, dirty boxers on the floor are not good. T-Ray, what do you think are the pros and cons of being with a girl?

Well it’s great for learning everything about girls and learning how to talk to girls. And when the girls all talk to her they’re like ‘Hi Amanda’ and we can just slide in! Also, she gives really good fashion advice, whenever we have a style disaster, she is just awesome and always helps to put me in the right direction. She also can tell us which girls are with you just for your fame and which ones actually care about you.

That’s so sweet. So there are no bad sides to Amanda? What about the cons?

Sometimes she wants to have ‘girl talk’ and we can’t really understand that! Also, sometimes she can be very happy one minute, and the next minute she's angry. You don't want to cross her then. Apart from that I can’t think of anything. Amanda is just awesome.

That’s what you have to say because she’s sitting right next to you, right?

Yeah she’s staring me down r - 4music.com

New Look presents Cover Drive
18 April 2012 by Sarah Kwong

Last night I attended a super cool New Look party which promoted new band, Cover Drive. The gig was Bajan themed, to celebrate Cover Drive's album, Bajan Style, which meant exotic cocktails aplenty!

The party was in Westfield's New Look store, which had been closed off for the event (VIP or what?!). As one of the Cosmo fashion girls said, it was a bit like that episode of The O.C where the gang get trapped in the mall - except it was uber glamorous and nobody had to run away from security (I think, anyway...).

The BTA (Barbados Tourism Authority) were on hand too, to bring the Bajan mood (and food!). We were served little spicy chicken legs, fishcakes on sticks and mini macaroni cheese. Opening for the band was Canadian Idol contestant Carly Rae Jepsen, who hit the UK number one spot with her single, ‘Call Me Maybe'. Her voice was hauntingly beautiful, and her tunes, just right to get the crowd livened up.

Super group Cover Drive took to the stage shortly after, and I knew that they'd opened for a Rihanna gig, so I was excited about what they were going to bring. With acoustic guitars and bongo drums, the band brought their Bajan roots to the stage, with feel-good, reggae-style beats and energised, lively melodies. Impressed? Check! The band consists of lead singer Amanda, and three (extremely cute) guys. They gave us a great set, and finished it off with their UK hit single, Twilight.

I left feeling mellowed and exotic. Until I looked down at my pale arms and the torrential rain outside... But hey, I can dream...


Read more: http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/campus/the-cosmo-intern-blog/new-look-presents-cover-drive#ixzz2eorSuNBw - Cosmopolitan.co.uk

We catch up with Amanda and T-Ray

The last time we spoke to Cover Drive at T4 on the Beach, they gave us some style tips and taught us some Caribbean dance moves.

Now, fresh from their performance at V Festival 2012, and on the cusp of releasing their fourth single, Explode, they couldn't resist having a chat with 4music.com to tell us what's been going on.

We caught up with Amanda and a very mischievous T- Ray who dished the dirt on what is was like working with Dappy and how it felt to hang with will.i.am.

The last time we spoke to you was at T4OTB. How has your summer been since then?

Oh my god. That seems so long ago now. We just played V Festival. That was such a dream come true! We’ve been playing some gigs around the UK, we went to Barbados too, so a lot has happened.

So your song Explode is being released this weekend. Tell us a little bit about the track and why you chose it for your next single?

We always loved the song and it was always a contender for the single. We always loved it after Twilight. And it was summer, so we thought it was just perfect. I love the song so much and it was even better when we sent it over to Dappy and he put a verse on it and what came out was amazing. It made it even more of single.

Obviously you toured with Dappy before, how was it working with him again on the track and in the video?

Oh my god it was so much fun and ‘cause we’ve toured with him it was obviously so overdue! When he sent it back we loved it so much. We didn’t even know if he would be in the video or not but he showed up and did a cameo and he was so professional and so talented. That’s one thing that people don’t realise about him. It was really great working with him to be honest.

Did he play any pranks or did he keep it strictly professional?

No, he didn’t play any pranks but he was talking to all the girls and hitting on the girls in the shoot. It was pretty hilarious.

Are you hoping the song will live up to its name and you’ll explode the charts, gaining a UK No 1?

We would love a UK No 1 that would be amazing. To have another No 1 would be incredible. We are so excited about what has happened so far. It’s something we thought would never even happen, so it’s incredible.

Do you have any dream collabs that you’d like to do or anyone you’re gonna be working with in the future?

We would love to do something with Ed Sheeran. He’s a really cool guy and we really respect him as an artist so it would be cool. Also No Doubt. They’ve just reformed and we LOVE them. We so would love to work with them.

The first time we spoke to you, you told us you were starstruck by the likes of Jessie J and Rihanna. Have you come across anyone since then who you’ve been blown away by?

We met will.i.am and he is so cool. We can’t believe that he talked to us. And, he talked to us for like an hour. That was another moment. We weren’t struck so much – we held our own! But yeah, he was very cool and he gave us great advice.

Can you share any of the advice he gave?

Obviously, he’s been up there as a band with the Black Eyed Peas. He was just giving us advice about always forward thinking, sticking together as a group and not letting the whole isolation thing happen. People do try to separate me from the boys but really we’re in this together. We’re a band first and foremost. That’s the most important thing to us. Music is the most important thing. That’s why we’re here.

Speaking of being in a band, what’s it like being in a group with just boys? What are the pros and cons?

The pros are that they are really easy-going. Guys don’t do that petty argument thing like girls do. Girls can be really catty and guys just don’t care. I also have three guys looking out for me all the time, so I always feel safe. The cons are that I always have three guys looking out for me all the time. Haha, so no guys ever come and talk to me. And boxers on the floor can be a bit much.

Yeah, dirty boxers on the floor are not good. T-Ray, what do you think are the pros and cons of being with a girl?

Well it’s great for learning everything about girls and learning how to talk to girls. And when the girls all talk to her they’re like ‘Hi Amanda’ and we can just slide in! Also, she gives really good fashion advice, whenever we have a style disaster, she is just awesome and always helps to put me in the right direction. She also can tell us which girls are with you just for your fame and which ones actually care about you.

That’s so sweet. So there are no bad sides to Amanda? What about the cons?

Sometimes she wants to have ‘girl talk’ and we can’t really understand that! Also, sometimes she can be very happy one minute, and the next minute she's angry. You don't want to cross her then. Apart from that I can’t think of anything. Amanda is just awesome.

That’s what you have to say because she’s sitting right next to you, right?

Yeah she’s staring me down r - 4music.com

Album Review: Cover Drive - Bajan Style
By Aida May 28, 2012
Mention “Twilight” and half of today’s teen audience would picture a ripped teen werewolf fighting a relatively good-looking vampire. The other half (those with better taste) however, would probably be playing Cover Drive’s hit single of the same name in their head. Twilight is already inching closer to the top 10 on 913FM’s Hot 30 Countdown, but does the rest of the album match up?
Bajan Style is the quartet’s debut album, and is chockfull of pop/dance hits, with a dash of reggae (the band cited Bob Marley as a huge influence on their music!). The Black Eyed Peas influence is rather stark as well, with their singer Amanda taking the role of Fergie. The difference is instead of heavy hip-hop beats, they sound closer to Rihanna. It’s not surprising though, since the band hails from the same place as Riri; Barbados! Plus, they even opened for the Rude Girl during her Loud tour!
The band recently told DigitalSpy that their name was derived from a “cricket batting technique”, and man, does the album charge hard and fast like a cricket ball. It’s full on high energy from the get go, and they put the pedal to the metal throughout the entire 33 minutes.
What’s best about Amanda is her ability to go from a smooth, ballad sound like on Twilight, then swap it for an up-tempo one as heard in their debut single Lick Ya Down, the fiercest track of the lot.
One track that showcases their all their elements in four minutes is Headphones. You’ve got that bass line and intriguing beats from a steel drum, but the lyrics? Total pop material.
The rest of the album is tamer, with a majority of them capable of having regular airplay on the radio. Sparks is a prime example. Reggae might be an acquired taste for most mainstream listeners, so they tweaked it and autotuned T-Ray’s vocals, to give it an eclectic feel, something we‘re familiar with.
Bajan Styles is brimming with energy, but successfully find the perfect balance of charisma (no overdramatic belting out here!) as well as electronic noises. Despite sounding like an album that conforms to conventional pop norms, there’s still a sense of authenticity emerging. They could easily shy away from their Caribbean roots, to cater to the English pop audience, instead, they incorporated traces of the island vibes into their tracks, putting a whole new twist to it.
Highlights: Headphones, Hurricane, Sparks

- spinorbinmusic.com

You may not know their name but you’ll undoubtable have heard their massive summer hit —Lick Ya Down. Cover Drive – Amanda, Barry, Jamar and T-Ray are the latest export from Barbados.

Having already performed with Rihanna and toured with Dappy, this Barbadian quartet bring fun and sunshine everywhere they go—even if it’s just in their personality.

DYRT have spoken with the band a few times now and we most definitely tip them to be our 1 to Watch in 2012.





Last time we spoke you mentioned you’d like to collaborate with N-Dubz/Dappy – how did it feel when you found out you were his support act?

How have the shows been so far? Have you had a favourite venue so far? What can the Glasgow audience expect tonight? You’ve performed in Glasgow a few times now – do you enjoy playing here?

Cover Drive: When we found out we were supporting Dappy we were beyond excited! He had said when we all were at a radio show Scotland a couple months ago, that he really wanted us to be a part of the tour and now here we are! He is a man of his word! Respect, Dappy!

The tour has been great so far. It is really a great opportunity for us to share our music with a whole new fan base. Dappy’s fans LOVE him! It is pretty amazing.

We have enjoyed each venue for different reasons. Liverpool was pretty special! Great crowd and a great dressing room-our own! Lol!

Glasgow can expect for Cover Drive to bring the sunshine! Our set is all about feeling like you’re on a vacation in Barbados.
We love Glasgow! Glasgow has always shown us a lot of love and support. We really appreciate that.

Do you have any backstage gossip/funny stories from the tour so far?

Cover Drive: Funny backstage stories…ummm… not really…Just a lot of fun backstage with the entire team. There is such a good vibe on the tour.

How have you found the whole tour experience? Does it make you want to tour yourself? Have you learnt anything about living on the road that you didn’t before?

Cover Drive: OOOH! We love being on the road! Yes! We do want to tour again soon!!! We wish this could go on forever. Feel like great when we are on stage entertaining fans daily.

Life on the road is tough. If we could, we would love to have a portable microwave, so that we could eat food from Marks and Spencer after our shows! Hate having to eat fast food all of the time. Amanda has learnt that if you are the only girl on a tour, and you’re a support act, don’t expect to have your own dressing room! Lol!

Tell us about your new single Twilight? It’s about friends becoming lovers..have any of you experienced this?

Cover Drive: Ha! Ha! I am sure we all have at one time or another. It really is a special feeling!

Where do you get your inspiration from for your songs?

Amanda is the principal writer for the band. Amanda: I get inspiration from all over! Magazines, books, movies, and real life…I am always watching, observing, listening and reading.

Tell us about your album? What can fans expect? When can we expect to hear it?

Cover Drive: Our album is going to take you on a trip to Barbados for less than 15 pounds! It is drenched in sunshine and feel-good vibes! Carib pop music. If all goes according to plan, our album should be ourtby second quarter 2012.

How did you find the process of making an album? How did you decide which songs make it and which don’t?

Cover Drive: Making the album was amazing! Working with creative people is so inspiring. We were soaking up every bit of knowledge and creativity that the more seasoned musicians, producers and songwriters would share.

Selecting songs for the album was tough. We wrote and recorded over 70 songs for this project. Still, we are very happy with the songs that are a part of the album.

Amanda: You recently revealed that you wrote a song with Scotland’s newest star, Emeli Sande – how did that come about? How was that experience..was it an easy process? Now that she’s an artist in her own right, does it feel strange that you worked together before either of you ‘made it’ as such? What were your impressions of her at the time?

Cover Drive: Emeli was amazing. So talented and kind! Working with her was a great experience. She was one of the first writers we wrote with when we started working on our album. We were all blown away by her talent! We all knew she has star potential and it is great to see it all coming together for her.

Is writing for other artists something you’d like to do more of? Anyone in particular you’d like to write for?

Cover Drive: I love to write and would love to write for other people! For now, though, I am totally focused on Cover Drive and making sure I write songs that work for the band!

You guys have always done Fedora Sessions and have continued to as you get ready to release your 2nd single…why do you still do this?

Cover Drive: Fedora Sessions got us our record deal. Fedora Sessions co - dyrt.co.uk

WHAT you need to know...

The chart-topping band from Barbados release their debut.

First impressions…

We can’t think of many bands named after cricket shots. We definitely can’t think of any bands named after cricket shots who have had No.1 hits – apart from Cover Drive!

Yes, here at last is the Caribbean group’s first album. And it’s the perfect antidote to all the gallons of rain that have been dumped on us in the past few weeks.

You can feel the sunshine pouring out of songs like chart-topper Twilight, Lick Ya Down, Headphones and their most recent hit, Sparks.

And in singer Amanda Reifer, pop has definitely found a brilliant new vocalist. We love it!

Our favourite track...
Twilight.

You’ll like this if you like...
Rihanna, Nicki Minaj.

Did you know?

Amanda’s got an admirer, in the shape of JLS’s Aston Merrygold. “I saw Aston in an interview looking at my behind on a red carpet,” she revealed. Cheeky!

OK! verdict...
The soundtrack to your summer! - OK!

WHAT you need to know...

The chart-topping band from Barbados release their debut.

First impressions…

We can’t think of many bands named after cricket shots. We definitely can’t think of any bands named after cricket shots who have had No.1 hits – apart from Cover Drive!

Yes, here at last is the Caribbean group’s first album. And it’s the perfect antidote to all the gallons of rain that have been dumped on us in the past few weeks.

You can feel the sunshine pouring out of songs like chart-topper Twilight, Lick Ya Down, Headphones and their most recent hit, Sparks.

And in singer Amanda Reifer, pop has definitely found a brilliant new vocalist. We love it!

Our favourite track...
Twilight.

You’ll like this if you like...
Rihanna, Nicki Minaj.

Did you know?

Amanda’s got an admirer, in the shape of JLS’s Aston Merrygold. “I saw Aston in an interview looking at my behind on a red carpet,” she revealed. Cheeky!

OK! verdict...
The soundtrack to your summer! - OK!

"It's based on the cricket batting technique," Cover Drive recently told us, speaking about the inspiration behind the group's name. Hailing from Barbados, the quartet follow in Rihanna's footsteps as the latest popstars to emerge from the Caribbean island. But while RiRi's career produces more hits than a five-day test match, does the group's debut album contain enough standout tracks to set them up nicely for their own run?

From the off, it's clear the group have been influenced by other mixed quartets No Doubt and the Black Eyed Peas. As such, singer Amanda Reifer serves as the Fergie/Gwen Stefani and takes the lead on the majority of the tracks. She can flip from butter-wouldn't-melt on mid-tempo love song 'Twilight' to passionate and sassy on debut single 'Lick Ya Down' in an instant - and she pulls it off with ease.

However, it's 'Headphones' that showcases the band's real ability as musicians. "Boy I want to put you on repeat/ You will be the bass of my heartbeat," Amanda swoons over bouncy beats and funk-driven guitar riffs, packed with more tropical flavour and sweetness than an ice-cold can of Lilt. 'Sparks' proves they are more than capable of taking on the trickier ballads, producing an ear-snagging pop melody with a floating piano riff and radio-friendly vocals.

Penultimate cut 'Hurricane' injects a welcome burst of back-end energy after non-starters 'Wrongside' and 'Can't Live In A World' begin to pull things down. Like all good cricket matches, there may be quiet spells during the game, but it's only the final result that really matters. Luckily for Cover Drive, their very first innings contains some very memorable hits.

Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/music/review/a380543/cover-drive-bajan-style-album-review.html#ixzz2eoaHHCUy
Follow us: @digitalspy on Twitter | digitalspyuk on Facebook - Digitalspy.com

LONDON (AP) - Rihanna’s not just sitting pretty, enjoying her mega-successful career _ she’s also lending a helping hand to other musical acts from Barbados.
She picked newcomers Cover Drive to back her at an Aug. 5 show for 20,000 in her homeland, which ensured strong notice for the newcomers. The group consists of bass player Jamar Harding, rapper/drummer T. Ray Armstrong, lead singer Amanda Reifer and guitarist Barry Hill.
The quartet told The Associated Press that backing up Rihanna was the best 20 minutes of their lives and they would love to have an amazing career like hers. They are now based in London and are scheduled to perform Aug. 29 during the Notting Hill Carnival.
They cited Rihanna as one of their key musical influences, along with the Black Eyed Peas, No Doubt and Bruno Mars.
“We are huge Rihanna fans, I mean massive, and when we found out we were going to open for her our brains melted,” Reifer said in the interview last week. “She was amazing, she’s really supportive.”
Cover Drive built up its fan base by putting videos on YouTube called the Fedora Sessions. Their cover of Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister” got so much interest it lead to a record deal. Now they’re releasing their debut single, “Lick You Down” in Britain on Aug. 28.
Band members are quick to note the song’s title isn’t erotic but refers to a local Creole saying meaning “knock you down.” They call their music “Carib-pop” _ what you get when you take Caribbean and pop music and put it in a blender.
“You have a nice, amazing drink of Caribbean music,” said Reifer. “It means it’s feel-good, it’s fun, it’s fresh, it’s sun shining, it’s all the things we like to use to describe our music.”
Not bad for an act who initially met when Reifer was baby-sitting Armstrong.


Read more: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/aug/19/ap-interview-cover-drive-gets-boost-from-rihanna/#ixzz2eoYFAmNs
Follow us: @washtimes on Twitter - Washingtontimes.com

Now a days with such a large online social network, it has become very easy, for musicians especially, to promote their music and build their own fanbase. And that is exactly what new band, Cover Drive did.

The quartet from Barbados, began by uploading covers of their favourite songs onto youtube after the encouragement from drummer, T’Rays mother (Who has now become their manager.) The covers received a lot of views and the band began to create an enormous online fanbase and eventually got the recognition they needed to be signed.

The band have described their sound as “cari/pop, sunshiney and feel good” and debut single ‘Lick Ya Down’ captured that feel good factor perfectly.

They released their single in August and it reached the top 10 in the UK singles chart. Lead singer of the band Manda said: “It was a great moment, we didn’t expect it at all. We thank everyone who bought the record. We were so shocked because Ed Sheeran released the same day so we were checking the updates all the time. To be in the top ten with such amazing artists is great, we were honoured.”

Initially there was a lot of confusion over the name of the track leading to a definition having to be added to the start of their video. The band were keen to explain how the name came about. “In Barbados we have a lot of our own little phrases and ‘lick ya down’ is one of them. It only means one thing. It means ‘knock you down’. Or you can use it as a threat like ‘man i would lick ya down’

Despite being a mainstream pop band, they are one of the few artists of that particular genre to be heavily involved in the making of their music. “We are very involved, we wrote most of our album and it’s very important to us that we’re involved in the process as much as we possibly can be.” The band also each play their own instruments.

Since debuting in the UK, Cover Drive have been compared to the likes of The Black Eyed Peas. “We love the Black Eyed Peas and especially their Elephunk album, it’s a major influence. We love No Doubt as well and their Rock Steady album.

Another major influence on the band is fellow bajan, Rihanna who they recently supported back home in Barbados. They described this to be the best 20 minutes of their lives and one of their highlights so far as a band.

However they said everything that has happened has seemed like a highlight: “When the fed-ex man came with the contract, highlight. When we recorded our album, highlight. When we were in LA, highlight. Shooting the video, highlight. Rhianna, highlight. Song on the radio, highlight”

For fans to keep up with Cover Drive they have began, like many bands now, to do weekly videos on their website or on youtube. Theirs is called Weekend Lime. “One of the things in Barbados is that we always have limes, which are hang outs or just relaxing and chilling. So this was kind of sharing a bit of our culture with our fans and hanging out with them without actually being there.”

Also on the website is a mixtape for fans to download. It contains a little snippet of their next single “Twilight” which is to be released very soon.

Their highly- anticipated album “Bajan Style” will also be released towards the end of the year.

Cover Drive are a perfect example of how hard work and putting yourself out there through the wonders that are Youtube, Facebook and Twitter can get you massive success. Although everyone has their own taste when it comes to music, I think Cover Drive could fit in anywhere. Their sound is Caribbean enough and pop enough to be completely unique. They are sure to continue to win over more fans with their feel good music and through being genuinely nice people. Everyone should give them a listen
- Thebanter.co.uk

Now a days with such a large online social network, it has become very easy, for musicians especially, to promote their music and build their own fanbase. And that is exactly what new band, Cover Drive did.

The quartet from Barbados, began by uploading covers of their favourite songs onto youtube after the encouragement from drummer, T’Rays mother (Who has now become their manager.) The covers received a lot of views and the band began to create an enormous online fanbase and eventually got the recognition they needed to be signed.

The band have described their sound as “cari/pop, sunshiney and feel good” and debut single ‘Lick Ya Down’ captured that feel good factor perfectly.

They released their single in August and it reached the top 10 in the UK singles chart. Lead singer of the band Manda said: “It was a great moment, we didn’t expect it at all. We thank everyone who bought the record. We were so shocked because Ed Sheeran released the same day so we were checking the updates all the time. To be in the top ten with such amazing artists is great, we were honoured.”

Initially there was a lot of confusion over the name of the track leading to a definition having to be added to the start of their video. The band were keen to explain how the name came about. “In Barbados we have a lot of our own little phrases and ‘lick ya down’ is one of them. It only means one thing. It means ‘knock you down’. Or you can use it as a threat like ‘man i would lick ya down’

Despite being a mainstream pop band, they are one of the few artists of that particular genre to be heavily involved in the making of their music. “We are very involved, we wrote most of our album and it’s very important to us that we’re involved in the process as much as we possibly can be.” The band also each play their own instruments.

Since debuting in the UK, Cover Drive have been compared to the likes of The Black Eyed Peas. “We love the Black Eyed Peas and especially their Elephunk album, it’s a major influence. We love No Doubt as well and their Rock Steady album.

Another major influence on the band is fellow bajan, Rihanna who they recently supported back home in Barbados. They described this to be the best 20 minutes of their lives and one of their highlights so far as a band.

However they said everything that has happened has seemed like a highlight: “When the fed-ex man came with the contract, highlight. When we recorded our album, highlight. When we were in LA, highlight. Shooting the video, highlight. Rhianna, highlight. Song on the radio, highlight”

For fans to keep up with Cover Drive they have began, like many bands now, to do weekly videos on their website or on youtube. Theirs is called Weekend Lime. “One of the things in Barbados is that we always have limes, which are hang outs or just relaxing and chilling. So this was kind of sharing a bit of our culture with our fans and hanging out with them without actually being there.”

Also on the website is a mixtape for fans to download. It contains a little snippet of their next single “Twilight” which is to be released very soon.

Their highly- anticipated album “Bajan Style” will also be released towards the end of the year.

Cover Drive are a perfect example of how hard work and putting yourself out there through the wonders that are Youtube, Facebook and Twitter can get you massive success. Although everyone has their own taste when it comes to music, I think Cover Drive could fit in anywhere. Their sound is Caribbean enough and pop enough to be completely unique. They are sure to continue to win over more fans with their feel good music and through being genuinely nice people. Everyone should give them a listen
- Thebanter.co.uk

SHE IS the sexiest star to come out of Barbados since Rihanna, but stunning Amanda Reifer has revealed her bandmates act as bodyguards to prevent guys getting too close.

The 21-year-old Bajan, who shot to fame with Cover Drive’s smash hits Lick Ya Down and Twilight, says her raunchy tomboy look is inspired by Gwen Stefani of No Doubt.

But the In:Demand Live and T in the Park star says she’s single and there are only three men in her life – bandmates T-Ray Armstrong, 18, guitarist Barry ‘Bar-Man’ Hill, 22, and bassist Jamar Harding,18.

The singer said: “I love Gwen Stefani and No Doubt. Gwen talks about girls’ insecurities, strengths and weaknesses.

“I have always been connected to Gwen because she is in a band and I’m in a band. I love her style as well, which is such a reflection of her music. It is a tomboy streak, which is what my style is. I like to feel sexy and still compete with the guys so I relate to her.

“I am single and very taken by my music and I’m very busy. There’s three guys in my life and they are in my band. They make sure that no one else can get in there.

“They are very protective of me, especially T-Ray. I used to be his babysitter – now he is mine and he prevents guys from hitting on me. He is like a hawk.

“He is always watching and makes sure that I’m safe and no guys try to take advantage.”

Amanda insists such close attention from her bandmates doesn’t cramp her style.

“T-Ray is my best friend. He gets me better than anyone else,” she said.

“To have him around all the time is great, especially in this crazy business.”

The news may come as a relief to fans of JLS. The British boy band have asked Cover Drive to support them on their summer UK tour.

But Amanda is not sure Oritsé Williams, Marvin Humes, JB Gill and Aston Merrygold are her type.

She said: “JLS are super-talented. We can’t wait, because it will be a great show. For someone to be hot in my book I need to know them.

“They’re not bad-looking guys, but I am more about what the guy’s personality is. That is what is attractive to me.

“I like guys who are confident and funny. I like manly men, a little bit rough round the edges, and I like people who laugh at themselves and can make me laugh.

“The British accent is very hot. They have a plus already. The Scottish accent reminds me of home just a little bit.”

T in the Park stars Cover Drive are back with Sparks – the follow-up to their No.1 hit Twilight – hitting the charts today, while their debut album Bajan Style is out tomorrow.

The group formed after growing up as friends on Barbados and were championed by fellow Bajan star, Rihanna, who asked them to support her on tour,

Amanda said: “We’re so grateful for that opportunity. We have so much respect for her. We would love to be best mates with her. We are still fans. We love her.

“She was already famous when we first met, which was when we opened for her. We don’t have her number or anything but, when we meet her, she tells us to make her and Barbados proud.”

The singer admits the comparisons she has enjoyed with the We Found Love singer can be a little embarrassing.

“I saw an article saying I was the new Rihanna and it is very flattering because she is amazing. But Rihanna is Rihanna,” she said.

“I’m not trying to take her place. I don’t think a band can replace Rihanna, we are going another route and trying to make a name for ourselves.

“It is a huge compliment because people look up to her. But we’re not jumping with joy – we’re unique as well.

“The similarity is we’re all from Barbados. As Bajans we have a drive. She is a hard worker and we are hard workers as well.

“There is a lot of talent in Barbados. It is like a treasure island really. Thanks to Rihanna, everyone is now paying attention to Barbados.

“There has always been talent. People have always been making music in Barbados. But Rihanna is the first to do it internationally.

“It is a small island and you are far removed from the music industry. To see someone from our country have that kind of success inspired us to keep going and pursue our dreams.

“Barbados is a fantasy island. It is the most beautiful place with clear blue water, white sandy beaches and everyone is really friendly and laid back. The food is amazing. I would say it is the best place in the world.

“I had to leave that paradise to fulfil my ambition.

“I have been involved in music and performing for as long as I can remember.

“I can remember being a little girl acting out all the songs from all the different musicals.

“My parents paid for me to go to step class and piano lessons.

“I was 15 when I started writing songs then the boys and I started getting together and making music. It happened naturally.”

Explaining her babysitting duties to T-Ray, she said: “I was 15 and he was 12 turning 13.

“I was an excellent babysitter, but he used to spend most of his time in his room hiding.

“He - Daily Record

Last week MP! hung out with our new popstar BFF’s Cover Drive. The Bajan band, made up of Bar-Man (the one with the dreads), T-Ray (the 17-year-old), Jamar (the Bruno Mars lookalike) and Amanda (the girl) sung us some tunes, christened Thing and answered loads of silly questions. Read on as they reveal their HUGE crush on The Saturdays, tell us their (frankly wimpy) Nando’s spice rating and teach us a Bajan phrase about a donkey’s bum…

You guys are originally from Barbados but are living all over the place at the moment, What do you miss most about home?

T-Ray: The obvious things; the sea the sand, weather, family, the food.
Amanda: I miss being able to drive around Barbados in a bikini top.
Barman: I miss not wearing shoes when going outside.
T-Ray: Yeah.
Amanda: Yeah!

You can take them off now if you want…

T-Ray: Nah, it’s too cold…
Amanda: I miss having to put shades on because of the sun… That’s what I miss.

Can you teach us some Bajan phrases?

T-Ray: Of course. There’s ‘Cha dread’ at the ending of ‘Lick Ya Down’, that pretty much means ‘Ah Man!’ or ‘Wicked’ so you can say “I just won a million dollars”…
All: Cha dread!
T-Ray: Or you can say “my dog just died”…
All: Ahh, Chaaaa dread.
Amanda: Do we have anything else? Jamar, what was that thing you said the other day that sounded like a real old Bajan would say it?
T-Ray: My dad said “What’s sweet in the donkey’s mouth is sour in the bum bum” That’s some things aren’t as good as they seem.
Amanda: And there’s ‘cuhdea’, when something’s really cute, or it touches you or you sympathise with something you can say cuhdea – like “look at that little kid in the gutter, cuhdea, let’s go save it” or “that baby is so chubby and adorable, cuhdea” or when you see a boy try to hit on a girl and fail… Cuhdea.

Have you picked up on any UK sayings yet?

T-Ray: We’ve picked up a few from our fans. We know ‘Pang’ and ‘Lang’.
Amanda: And ‘Fit’.
Barman: I say ‘innit’ a lot.
Amanda: And ‘Wicked’ we know what that means now.
T-Ray: We know what ‘your’ means.

Who are your favourite UK artists at the moment?

Amanda: My goodness, the UK is full of incredible talent. Adele, of course. She’s amazing, a worldwide phenomenon. Jessie J, Tinie Tempah, Dappy…
T-Ray: ….the ginger king Ed Sheeran…
Barman: Ellie Goulding…
Amanda: And Pixie Lott, we’ve met her a couple of times and she’s great. Rizzle Kicks are cool, Olly Murs, we’ve met him as well, we think he’s great, so much talent here…
T-Ray: The Wanted, they’re really cool.

Have you tried much British food? Yorkshire puddings? Marmite? Bacon buttie? Fish and chips?

T-Ray: We’ve tried fish and chips, that’s pretty tasty. Mushy peas, not so much.
Amanda: I skipped the mushy peas.
T-Ray: We tried vinegar on fries (scrunches up face)… Errr we don’t like vinegar on fries…
Barman: Nooooo.
Amanda: He (Jamar) likes it.
Jamar: It’s so strange for us to have it like that, but I like it.

Brown Sauce?

T-Ray: Naaahhh.
Amanda: What’s brown sauce?
T-Ray: Remember when we were in Scotland and I thought it was ketchup and put it on my fries?
Amanda: Ewwww.
Barman: Didn’t taste very good….

Yorkshire Puddings?

T-Ray: I’ve actually had them before and they were really good.
Amanda: I think I’ve seen them in Marks N Spencer, but I haven’t tried them yet.
T-Ray: Yeah you put gravy in it. Pretty good.

Marmite?

Amanda: Nope.
T-Ray: Nooooo.
Jamar: Never tried that one, no.

For Maximum Pop will you promise to try Marmite?

Amanda: YES, we will!!
T-Ray: Of course, we’ll do it.
Amanda: We’ll put it in our Weekend Lime (their weekly video podcast).

Bacon Butties?

T-Ray: Yeahhhh. Anything with bacon is amazing. Anything.
Amanda: Does Costa count? I like Costa? I like their salads too. Their blueberry muffins are pretty awesome too.

You admit that you eat in Nando’s everyday. What spice rating do you all go for?

Amanda: We’re all wimps, no-one goes for hot.
Jamar: Ehhhh? Speak for yourselves.
Amanda: That’s right, Jamar does go for hot.
T-Ray: I can’t have hot.
T-Ray: I get lemon and herb… Or Peri Tamer [the sauce on the kiddie menu].
Amanda: I like Peri Tamer because it tastes like BBQ sauce.
Barman: And I go for medium.
Amanda: When T-Ray’s dad was travelling with us, he goes for Extra Hot and he’s bald, so as he eats his head sweats and it starts to drip like he’s having his own shower. He basically erupts.

How far would you go to get a Nando’s black card?

T-Ray: For the last year I have been constantly promoting them. We did a jingle on the radio. We have the slogan Perfect Service, Perfect Chicken. Our CD Fielders (online fan base) hashtag it with us. Aaaand (starts singing) ” I would walk 500 miles and I would walk 500 more” to get a black card but apparently they’re restricting them but I’d still work hard for one. T-Ray for Nando’s President!!!

You’ve known each for a long time, do you all have different roles in the group?

A: Yes - Maximumpop.co.uk