Anyone with an ear to the ground for the local music scene may have heard some chatter about a new band.
3 in a Bar have performed live at various venues including the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, have recorded a debut album and performed alongside ’80s star Jaki Graham.
But you may be surprised to find out the members of this band are still in secondary school.
Bobby Sinfield and Owen Brassel, both 13, go to Harris Academy, Rainham, and Joe Pugh, 14, goes to Abbs Cross Academy, Hornchurch.
They officially formed 3 in a Bar five months ago and yet they are on their way to becoming the hottest band out of Rainham.
Their light hearted throwback to ’70s classic rock has garnered a dedicated fan base and their debut album is out in a couple of weeks.
The Recorder caught up with the band after a rehearsal, to find out more about their swift rise to stardom.
Drummer and vocalist Joe approached the interview with familiar ease, as he talked about how his desire for music was the catalyst.
“Well, I wanted to start a band in the first place because I love music and we put an ad on Facebook.
“First Bob joined, then a couple of weeks later Owen joined. And it went from there really.”
From then on the band began rehearsing regularly and performing at local venues.
Of course, the Recorder had to enquire how a group of secondary school students came to be known as 3 in a Bar.
“Well there’s three of us and we practised down my granddad’s bar – pretty simple when you think of it really,” said Joe.
As far as first band names go, it really does fit the bill.
“At our next show you can expect a mix between originals and covers, mainly ’60s and ’70s stuff, and you can expect a great night of live music.”
For any 13-year-old performing for a crowd can be a daunting task but lead guitarist Bobby found that confidence is key.
He said: “Sometimes I get nervous when we’re first starting, but knowing you’ve got the skill and that people like your music really helps.”
Bobby described their style of music for anyone who hasn’t had the chance to see the band perform yet.
“It’s very happy, feelgood – something you can listen on a happy day – on a sad day even to cheer you up.”
Owen, the quietest of the group, is the rhythm guitarist.
He plays the essential “background stuff” that is the building blocks of the songs.
He said the band have become quick friends and even hang out in their spare time.
Recently, 3 in a Bar have been in the studio working on their debut album.
“We work on all parts of the music and the lyrics and it’s just us really.”
They were inspired by bands like Status Quo and The Rolling Stones, and this is reflected in the songs they choose to play.
“I think we all like that type of music really, the different branches of the rock genre.
“And it just so happens when we come together we create a rock ‘n’ roll type sound.”
The album, which is currently between titles, is compiled of original songs and music all written by the boys.
Unfortunately for avid fans there is no merchandise at the moment, but Joe has assured the Recorder they are working on it.
Of course the boys didn’t get here without a couple of helping hands.
“We’d like to thank my grandad (Mike Pugh) who got us here together and the mums and dads for supporting us through our journey so far.”
3 in a Bar isn’t just a fun hobby; Joe says performing in Rainham is only the beginning.
“The dream? London, then Madison Square Gardens,” he said with a hearty laugh.
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