User:Sarahdangerward/Jesus and his Judgemental Father

Jesus and his Judgemental Father (often shortened to Jesus) is a four-piece British punk-rock band that formed in Leeds, UK, 2010. They are part of a new-wave riot grrrl movement, which resembles the politics rather than the musical leanings of original riot grrrl bands. They are heavily influenced by bands and artists such as Ani Difranco, Sia and No Doubt, but write music in the style of ‘90s punk-rock, similar to Green Day, Weezer and Blink-182.

Members

 * Danni Gibbins: Lead vocals, Guitar, Synth
 * Sarah 'Danger' Ward: Guitar
 * Sofia Hicks: Bass, Backing vocals
 * Liz Hunter: Drums, Backing vocals

History
Originally in a band with his sister (Beth Gibbins) called Tiny Tin Lady, Danni met Sofia through the Leeds queer scene and promptly offered her the opportunity to play flute on their track 'Growing Pains'. Liz and Danger played together in Ani DiFranco tribute act, Fanny DiWanko, and it was through this that they met Danni, who regularly sound-engineered for them. After over-hearing someone utter the phrase 'Jesus and his Judgemental Father', Danni and Danger took it upon themselves to create a band of the same name. They subsequently wrote a total of six songs and recorded them immediately, contacting Sofia and then Liz in the hope that they would join the band.

After securing a regular, free practice space, the band was able to meet up regularly and played a series of shows in Leeds, gradually gaining a very loyal fan base. They played their first show at Joseph's Well, opening for DC66 in October 2010. In May 2011, the band entered a Battle of the Bands competition at a local pub, which featured a £700 cash prize. Having only been together for a few months, they were apprehensive about being placed in a heat alongside a very established Leeds band, but despite this they overcame homophobic, transphobic and misogynistic abuse and triumphed over the other entries. With the help of the support of their loyal fanbase, they won the final round and used the prize money to fund the purchase of a much-needed guitar amp and the recording of their debut album, “Kings and Queens”.

“Kings and Queens” was recorded over two days in Sofia’s basement. All tracks were recorded live, with vocals and extra guitar and synth parts added later. The mixing then took place in Danny’s bedroom over a two month period. During this time, the band came up with the idea of making the CD art resemble that of a DIY zine by employing the talent of their friends and fans who made the album possible in the first place. Each track had its own story and/or art interpretation. The band got in contact with Sister Spit’s Cristy C. Road and were given permission to feature some of her artwork. The album sleeves were printed by a local printing co-op called Footprint.

The album was launched on 11th February 2012.