Malta first taste of the Characters took place back in the mid-Eighties, when the (then) London-based band flew over to perform here on two separate occasions. That, however, was a different band to the Characters most Maltese are familiar with. Upon his return to Malta, Ray Mercieca practically rebuilt a new line-up around himself and bassist Gino Micallef, with new recruits Tony Griscti (drums) Antoine Faure (keyboards) and later Adam Bonello (guitar) completing the band that successfully became a regular leading presence on the local live circuit and also recorded three albums’ worth of gorgeously infectious, flowing rock, including live favourites such as The Truth, Destination Red and the exceptional Down By The Water.

After an indefinite hiatus of inactivity, Characters recently got back together, marking their return with a packed-out gig at The Alley just a couple of weeks ago. Their return also sees the release of a brand new single, So Alive, which is being officially launched on the local airwaves today. The new song, indelibly stamped with Ray’s signature vocal style, reflects a distinct inclination towards a more contemporary Britrock sound, applying the genre’s updated trademark guitar swagger with Characters’ established melodic rock to great effect. Characters will be performing at the Malta Jazz and Rock Festival on Friday 20 July and a week later at the Farsons Beer Festival. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/

thecharactersmusic.

CD COURTESY OF Exotique