Benefits (band)
Benefits | |
|---|---|
The Benefit Band | |
| Background information | |
| Origin | Teesside, England |
| Genres | Noise punk, electronic, industrial |
| Years active | 2019–present |
| Labels | Invada Records |
| Members |
|
| Website | benefitstheband.com |
Benefits are a British noise punk band formed in 2019 in Teesside, England. The group is noted for its politically charged lyrics and a fusion of punk, electronic, and industrial music.
History
Benefits were formed by vocalist Kingsley Hall—formerly of The Chapman Family—and multi-instrumentalist Robbie Major. The band began releasing music independently during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Their debut album, Nails, was released in April 2023 on Invada Records and received positive critical reception for its urgent sound and social commentary.[1]
In 2025, Benefits released their second album, Constant Noise, also through Invada. The album expanded their sonic range, incorporating elements of electronic dance music and rave, while retaining their politically motivated lyrical focus.[2]
Musical style and themes
Benefits’ music combines aggressive electronic instrumentation with spoken-word vocals. Their lyrics often address political disillusionment, social inequality, and the decline of post-industrial Britain. The band have been described as a “noisy, visceral issues-based collective” by The Guardian.[3]
Live performances
The band is known for intense live performances featuring Hall’s commanding stage presence and Major's confrontational instrumentation. In 2023, they made their debut at Glastonbury Festival, appearing on the Leftfield Stage.[4]
In 2025, Benefits implemented affordability measures including a £12 ticket price cap and early show curfews to accommodate working-class audiences and those dependent on public transport.[5]
A 2025 live performance at The Lexington in London was noted for blending dystopian themes with humor and emotional depth. The Times praised the band's ability to turn apocalyptic anger into exhilarating celebration, highlighting their dynamic energy and inventive wordplay.[6]
Band members
Current members
- Kingsley Hall – vocals, lyrics, composer
- Robbie Major – composer, electronics, synthesizers
Past members
- Hugh Major – synthesizers
- Paul Chapman – guitar (formerly of The Chapman Family)
- Neil Cooper – drums (of Therapy?)
- Rick McMurray – drums (of Ash)
- Cat Myers – drums (of Texas)
- Dale Frost – drums
- Jonny Snowball – drums
- Mike Kitching – drums
Discography
Studio albums
- Nails (2023)
- Constant Noise (2025)
References
- ^ "Benefits: Nails – album review". Louder Than War. 15 December 2023. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
- ^ "Benefits interviewed about Constant Noise: 'This is art you fucking heathen'". Louder Than War. 21 March 2025. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
- ^ Hann, Michael (5 February 2023). "Benefits review – brutal punk sincerity rages against Britain's dying light". The Guardian. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
- ^ "Glastonbury 2023: All-star veterans advise festival first-timers". The Guardian. 23 June 2023. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
- ^ "Teesside band Benefits cap ticket price to 'make gigs accessible'". BBC News. 21 February 2025. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
- ^ "Benefits review — dystopian party bangers with a touch of humour". The Times. 28 April 2025. Retrieved 15 May 2025.