OXFORD: The Bullingdon

Friday 8th March, 2024

7:00pm

Event information

Resilience, Rock, and Realness

After recently returning with their stunning comeback single “Bridges” in recent weeks, their first offering since their breakthrough debut EP 'Avoid the Panic', a release that skyrocketed them into 2023 as the BBC Introducing artist in residence, Oxford’s The Mezz now return with the cinematic new video for their newest effort.

Offering a more intimate and isolated perspective of their latest outing, the new visuals for “Bridges” show lead singer Ben Comley as a solitary figure traveling throughout his hometown, before finally becoming his true self as the frontman of this fresh and exciting outfit on the rise.

Adding about the new video, Ben said, "In this video I wanted to capture the feeling of being isolated by the demands of social media presence. You can see as I become more free the further from civilization I get, not being able to release my true self until I am on that stage.”

Just when it seemed like The Mezz were primed for a meteoric rise, they faced a setback that would test their mettle. Drummer Charlie, the rhythmic heartbeat of the band, received a shocking diagnosis of bowel cancer. The news was a devastating blow that shook the very foundations of the band's future.

For a year, they stood by their comrade as he fought an arduous battle with unwavering courage and tenacity. A collective brotherhood, they rallied together, epitomizing the solidarity that true bands are made of. With the unwavering support of fans, friends, and one another, they faced this challenge head-on. Today, Charlie stands tall, 1 year cancer-free. Fuelled by their collective passion for music and a profound camaraderie, The Mezz have swiftly reclaimed their place in the hearts of their devoted fans, igniting stages and leaving a trail of awe-inspiring performances in their wake.

Previous releases, 'Jump to Fly' and 'Chasing Love', tell the story of their journey, encapsulating the essence of The Mezz's heartwarming narrative. These feel-good indie-pop anthems, complete with lose-yourself-in-the-moment choruses, are a testament to their collective resilience and unwavering spirit.

Lead singer Ben, whose vocal prowess often pierces the heart, offers a poignant glimpse into the making of 'Bridges' "In this song, you'll hear my heartfelt struggle with the world's demands on personality and appearance. I grapple with the choice between embracing my true self and succumbing to the pressure of crafting an idealised persona for social media consumption. It's a constant back-and-forth, a battle between genuine happiness and the allure of conforming to societal norms for wider acceptance."

With electric performances and arms wide open, The Mezz continues to energise a community of dedicated followers. Their music is more than a melody; it's a mantra for moving forward, taking chances, and living life to its fullest. In a world where self-doubt and the uncertainties of growing up seem to rule the day, The Mezz carries a heartfelt message - one of overcoming, one of hope and one of unapologetic authenticity.

In 2023, The Mezz aren't just a band; they're a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to heal and inspire. Their story is just beginning and their melodies will continue to serve as a guiding light through the chaos of the world today