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JL&tSS are a country folk punk band from Cheltenham town made up for four lost souls with a passion for politically poetic storytelling. Whilst beginning its life as a solo project for Jim at the close of 2006, the subsequent years have seen him develop strongly as a songwriter and performer, leading him to recruit a cavalcade of the towns best musical talent (including fellow istf label mate Joe and ex-holloh bandmate Phil) to equal the forthright natures of his influences (Bright Eyes, Billy Bragg, Frank Turner).

Following the success of his 2008 debut record "I'll Be Neon", Jim Lockey has gone from strength to strength achieving profile slots at prestigious festivals and venues and being personally invited to  share stages with those musicians who have and still do influence his sound to date. Since the rise of the Solemn Sun the band have played alongside cult members of the new folk movement including Frank Turner, Johnny Flynn, Mumford & Sons, Chris T-T and Peter Doherty and have just put the finishing touches to this year's follow up record entitled 'Atlases', an LP which sets the world to rights, through screaming lungs and alt.country rhythms, and stands as a testiment to the toils of a young British generation. Recorded over two days at Steve Winwood's Wincraft studios and produced by MPG engineer of the year and double Grammy award nominated producer James Towler, the album is expected to be released spring 2010.  

With the band being hotly tipped as 'ones to watch' coupled with 'Atlases' being planned for release in September this year and extensive touring to follow, 2009 could be Jim Lockey and the Solemn Sun's year. Watch this space.  

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