Ready the Colours

The spring of 2011 was a time of new beginnings for the lads of Ready the Colours. Raul--vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and primary writer for the band--had just moved back home to southwest Florida after having lived on the west coast for several years. Having returned in trying circumstances, he had found an outlet for his frustrations through his muse of melody and lyrics and began writing prolifically. For Dave (lead guitar) and Matt (drums), who had previously played with TJ Kelly in Chasing Sparrows, it was a time of uncertainty. On the heels of Chasing Sparrows' split they were unsure of how music could be a part of their future. Possessing the equipment and expertise was one thing, but finding a group of other like-minded musicians was another. Having heard of Raul's situation, Dave contacted him and offered him an opportunity to jam on some songs. Raul jumped at the occasion and the wheels were in motion. After searching briefly for a seasoned bassist to join them in their musical endeavors, they realized they had the answer in front of them all along--their friend and music aficionado Joey was brought in on bass. It was an instrument he had no previous experience with whatsoever. Their band was complete. As the four came together to write music, it quickly became obvious that there existed a chemistry between them that defied the short time they had been together. Their style emerged as a homogenization of indie rock and electronica. As one exuberant fan put it: "You guys sound like Kings of Leon, Coldplay and U2 had a baby." They had developed a sound--they only needed a name. After much deliberation, they decided on Ready the Colours. "We wanted a name that captures the essence of who we are and what we're about," Raul explains. He continues: "A lot of people ask us what our name means, and why we picked it. It began as a naval concept. Ships were identified by the colors they were flying." Waxing philosophical, Dave clarifies: "For us, Ready the Colours is more of an idea--a way of life. It means living for an idea of something that's bigger than all of us. When things fall apart, what will be the purpose of your life? Without that kind of defining passion, we die. Each of us may be flying a different flag, but what's important and beautiful is that those colors are flying." Endorsements: Voiceless Clothing