CRUZ -  Transforming lockdown aspirations into a Leadmill reality 

From what began as a lockdown hope to becoming hometown heroes, Sheffield's finest Cruz have been paving soundtracks for a generation as they set their sights on a pivotal headline hometown show later this year. Following in the footsteps of many greats to have graced the Leadmill stage. Coldplay, Oasis, and the Arctic Monkeys have all performed at the 900 capacity venue. Greatness looms over the name. These lads can certainly add their name to the history book at the Leadmill. Cruz will undoubtedly provide unmissable talent, accompanied with a Sheffield spark that is sure to have an effect on what looks to be a monumental night. So how did the group from Steel City get to where they are today?

During a recent catch up, with lead guitarist Tom, we put forward the question, How did you guys meet as a band? Where did you first start playing together? Tom responded back with, "So me and Sam first met at Uni, and the band sort of stemmed from Sam sending me a few songs he wrote over lockdown. I then had a play around and started writing solos and adding bits to them. We then thought, shall we have a crack at this and form a band? So we started looking for a bass player, which is how we met Jamie, through a mutual friend, and Ethan through someone who worked with Jamie ''. Upon the release of Cruz's debut EP in November, If Not Now, When? The Sheffield lads have been smashing it, seeing the energy-packed rock EP pick up 250,000 streams across Spotify. In addition to this Disco Colour beams, a catchy track from the EP recently hit 100,000 streams. A substantial achievement, to establish the piece as a debut success, pointing the group in a promising direction.

Cruz are no amateurs to the Leadmill, having blown the roof off in previous years, throughout sublime support concerts. These support slots, on top of many successful music releases, have provided a large enough platform for the band. As they secure their biggest headline show to date. A headline slot at your city's most iconic venue. It is a lifelong dream for any band. Like any headline show, extraordinary things are anticipated. For this reason, we asked Tom, Are we going to see anything special/different from you guys at the Leadmill gig? Tom: "Leadmill can't come quick enough! We feel like our live shows have been getting better and better, so we can't wait to play in front of everyone in Sheffield again. We'll be adding a few new songs in and a few other bits to keep it special. It's gonna be a huge night."

Before the Leadmill gig, Cruz plans to perform in fine fashion across the summer at many festivals. Their live sets can be seen at the Alsager Music Festival on July 13 and Sheffield's Rock n Roll Circus on August 31. Grab tickets for any of the band's gigs here, including the much anticipated Leadmill gig. With over 80% of tickets already sold, it looks to be on course for a sellout. https://cruzband.com/