The Spoils
Four mates. A few different names. One sound that's finally their own.
SAME ROOTS. DIFFERENT NAME.
Some bands come together overnight. Others take a few attempts to find their identity.
For THE SPOILS, the story goes all the way back to college days, through a succession of names including Luna Portum, Capella and Ring O Roses.
But THE SPOILS isn't simply another name change.
With Cameron and Dan joining when the band took its current form in 2023, this became a new chapter with a different line-up, fresh energy and a clearer sense of what they wanted to create.
The history is there. The friendships are there. But the music is moving forward.
NO GENRE. NO RULEBOOK.
Ask THE SPOILS what kind of music they make and they'll probably tell you they don't really identify with a genre.
Alternative indie rock might be the closest description, but it doesn't tell the whole story.
Their sound brings together atmospheric moments, strong melodies, gritty guitar work and genuine emotion. There's a willingness to take influences from everywhere, not just the biggest names or the most obvious artists.
Adam takes the lead on much of the songwriting and lyrics, but the music is a collective effort. Everyone has a part in shaping the finished sound.
For a starting point, put on 'Chemicals'.
Then make your own mind up.
WHEN IT STARTED FEELING REAL.
Every independent band has those moments when something changes.
For THE SPOILS, one of those moments arrived with the release of their debut EP.
Releasing the record was already a huge milestone, but the show on release day gave them something else entirely.
People were asking for signed setlists. Signed CDs. Photos with the band.
Not just listening to the music, but wanting something to remember it by.
It's the sort of thing that makes the hours spent writing, rehearsing and playing shows feel worthwhile.
And it's a reminder that a band's success isn't always measured in streaming numbers.
Sometimes it's the person standing in front of you asking for an autograph.
THE SHOW MUST GO ON. PROBABLY.
THE SPOILS describe their live shows in one word: passionate.
Although, judging by their gig history, unpredictable might be another good one.
Take Lichfield, for example.
The power went out during their set.
For most bands, that would be filed under gig disasters. For THE SPOILS, it's both their funniest mishap and one of their favourite shows.
That's probably all you need to know about their approach to playing live.
Energy, emotion and a willingness to embrace whatever happens.
Electricity permitting.
Adam
Vocals & Guitar
Dan
Guitar
Cameron
Bass
Lee
Drums
🎓 THE COLLEGE YEARS
The band's roots go all the way back to college. A few name changes later, they're still making music together.
🔄 FOUR NAMES LATER
Luna Portum. Capella. Ring O Roses. THE SPOILS. Finding the right band name took a few attempts.
⚡ UNPLUGGED. NOT BY CHOICE.
The power went out at their Lichfield gig. Somehow, it's still one of their favourites.
✍️ AUTOGRAPHS, PLEASE
Their debut EP release show ended with fans asking for signed CDs, setlists and photos.
🎧 START HERE
New to THE SPOILS? 'Chemicals' is the track they recommend listening to first.
😂 WHAT'S THE ARGUMENT?
Ask them which band argument they still laugh about. Their answer? "Everything."
🎸 NO BOXES ALLOWED
Ask them to define their genre and they'll tell you they're their own kind of thing. Indie is just the closest label.
🏟️ THE BIG ROOM
Their dream venue? The main room at an O2 Academy. No small ambitions here.
The Serious Bit (briefly)
REAL MUSIC. REAL PEOPLE. REAL CONNECTION.
For THE SPOILS, being in a band isn't just about writing songs and getting on stage.
It's about sharing something they've created with people who genuinely care.
They want their music to feel authentic. Something listeners can relate to, believe in and experience alongside them.
And they don't measure success purely by how many people know their name.
It's about the people who keep coming back. The ones streaming the songs, buying tickets, wearing the merch and supporting the band because the music actually means something to them.
There's something refreshingly simple about that.
Four musicians making music they believe in, hoping it connects with people who believe in it too.
No manufactured image. No pretending to be something they're not.
Just genuine music and the people who make it matter.
And that's exactly the kind of band I want Above Average Clothing to support.
Congrats - you've made it this far
You now know The Spoils have had four band names, survived a power cut and apparently argue about everything.
Seems only fair you give 'Chemicals' a listen.
And maybe pick up some merch while you're here.
Support the band. Wear the music.
