BeeJar was formed by Irish duo Ellen Cronin (vocals/guitar/keys) and Dave Mannion (guitar), joined by a tight UK rhythm section comprising Ammaar Wahab (drums) and Rob Parker (bass). Over the last two years, the band has rapidly evolved from a new project into a regular fixture of the London alt-rock scene.
The band has carved out a distinct sonic identity that bridges the gap between classic rock grit and the modern, dynamic energy of contemporaries like Wolf Alice, NewDad, and The Last Dinner Party. Frontwoman Ellen delivers a striking vocal mix: the raspy, classic warmth of Stevie Nicks injected with the biting, poetic Irish post-punk attitude of Grian Chatten. Guitarist Dave backs this up with heavy, overdriven riffs that draw from the bluesy swagger of Led Zeppelin and the driving distortion of Queens of the Stone Age.
BeeJar recently released their debut EP, produced by Andy Zanini (who previously trained and worked with acclaimed producer Jim Lowe). Their latest single, Playing to the Gallery, has gained strong early traction, pulling over 3,000 streams in its first two weeks and receiving a strong algorithmic push on Spotify driven by its rebellious, riff-heavy sound.
The band has been steadily building live momentum across the capital, regularly playing to crowds of 100+ at venues such as O2 Academy Islington, Dublin Castle, and Camden Assembly. Their strong local draw is backed by sold-out headline shows at The Stag's Head, The Star in Shoreditch, Temple of Art and Music, and The Engine Rooms. Beyond the live circuit, BeeJar recently partnered with War Child for an online gig that raised £1,400, placing them among the Top 20 fundraising acts in the UK for the initiative.
The band continues to gain tangible traction online, supported by a rapidly growing and highly engaged Instagram following.