NORTH Devon-based Lionstar are sometimes labelled as a reggae band but they are so much more than that, fusing in rock, world and ska and electronic elements to create a sub genre of their own, which gives them the unique sound that they are become more and more known for. 

Since the Times last spoke to Lionstar in February 2015 the band has been incredibly busy resulting in an increased popularity not only in the UK but also abroad.

The band played a run of almost 200 shows last year with appearances at 22 UK festivals including Boomtown, Beautiful Days, Kaya World Music Festival to name just a few, brushing shoulders with the likes of Hollie Cook, The Levellers, and a very special highlight, meeting and spending some time with Stephen Marley, Bob Marley’s second eldest son.

‘Meeting Stephen Marley was an incredible experience,’ said guitarist Martyn Callwood. ‘We don’t particularly get “starstruck” as we are at a stage where we are starting to mix with that high calibre of artist fairly regularly. But there was a moment where we almost had to pinch ourselves, obviously as huge fans of Bob Marley’s work, and also as fans of Stephen’s work too.

‘He was such a lovely guy, who took time to genuinely show interest in Lionstar and even took away a copy of our album for himself, and one for his brother, Bob Marley’s eldest son Ziggy Marley.’

As well as festival appearances, Lionstar has played shows the length and breadth of the UK, mainly their own shows, but also with some support slots for big artists, and they were thrilled to be invited back to support the legendary Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry for some dates on his tour. 

‘Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, who also worked with Bob Marley and produced some of his records, is another absolutely lovely guy.’ said Martyn. ‘He came into our dressing room each night and took some time to have pictures with us and chat.’

Lionstar has also taken part in live radio interviews and performances, including a live BBC radio session and February saw the first leg of their Positive Vibrations Tour 2016 which they kickstarted in India.

‘There is almost no words to describe our experience in India,’ said Maryn. ‘It was a very special experience that will stay with us. Having the opportunity to go out there and share your music is a very special feeling and the people are unbelievable. For a lot of bands heading out there it may be quite hard but we are very lucky in that we already have a very large fanbase in India. We were treated so well by everyone and really were made to feel at home. 

‘The reaction we got from the people was simply amazing, with one show in Arpora seeing us play out to about 2,000 people. The energy in the air was electric! Looking out at that many people all so engaged in our music, singing along and dancing was mind blowing considering we were the other side of the world from where we are based.

‘There was not a dull moment and each show we played was to a large amount of people, more than we had anticipated, with one show on a stage on the beach in Palolem, ending with a massive firework display, organised by surprise for us and the crowd, by Pankaj Ddesai, owner of the Royal Touch Resort, who is a dear friend of ours.’

The India tour was such a special experience for the band, so much so that they wanted to share it with all their fans so they recorded a live album in India which they will be releasing in June this year, titled simply, Lionstar — Live In India. Also at some stage this year Lionstar will be releasing a DVD, so that people can relive the experience with them from their own homes. There will be footage of not only on stage but behind the scenes as well to give people a real insight into the month that they were in India. 

The coming year is looking to be even more full-on, with the planned release of new music videos, festivals, a tour and hopefully some shows and festival appearances across Europe. 

For all up to date news on the band see www.lionstarmusic. com, or www.facebook .com/ lionstarmusic.

Lionstar will be appearing in Tavistock at The Wharf on Saturday (April 23) with their friends ‘Legend’ (see adjoining article).