Retro Firefly // Chess // Max Ryan // + MORE

Retro Firefly is the music project of Lowestoft-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Samantha Penman. She began writing music in her early teens, frequently finding inspiration in nature and her upbringing along the Suffolk Coast. Her music has an indie-folk vibe, taking inspiration from artists such as James Blunt and Aurora.

Chess, like the game, Hi my name is Chess, like the game. I make music inspired by the sounds of Lola Young, Nothing but Thieves, Radiohead and Jeff Buckley, that cuts deep into the late-night, swirling mess of thoughts, doubts and desires. Born and raised on the sunny east coast of Australia, I am influenced by the authentic nature of the Aussie live music scene and especially the raw energy of the rock bands. At age 18 I moved to Europe to pursue my music career alone, although this was a really isolating and challenging shift in my life it allowed me to truly open up and grow as a songwriter and as a human. I am currently based in London, soaking up all the creative juices pouring out of the city. You can give my music a listen on Spotify, Soundcloud and Youtube 🌻 Lots of love Chess x

Max’s story began on the football pitch, where he showcased his exceptional talents as a professional footballer for Watford FC. However, after being released from The Hornets Max decided to take up his second passion in life, music! Now instead of composing himself in front of goal Max finds himself hidden away writing and releasing new music, and instead of playing on a rainy day in Stoke, he’s now performing in front of thousands of people, reaching competition finals, and playing festivals up and down the country. This change allowed Max to gain a new purpose in life, helping others in the community, and passing on knowledge and skills he’d experienced, and ones he now shows in his music.