Brighton Welcomes Champion Trees

As we consider the power of music to transport us to new and unexpected places, we might wonder what it is about Champion Trees that has resonated with so many listeners. The band's story began in 2018, when cousins Francis Christie and Lex Pienaar teamed up with drummer Langa Dubazana at the University of Cape Town, drawing inspiration from 90s luminaries such as Belle & Sebastian and Pavement. With their debut album NOW 3000, released in 2022 on Death Cricket Records, Champion Trees introduced a playful, lyric-driven style that has since evolved to incorporate a wide range of influences and styles.

The band's second album, A Duck's Water Off My Back, marks a significant departure from their earlier work, with a much fuller sound that adds violin, synthesizers, saxophone, clarinet, and cello to the mix. The album has received critical acclaim, with Outside Noise praising its "beautiful poetry" and noting that it features "some of the most beautiful poetry we've heard in independent music all year". With the addition of new members James Bickford-Smith, Michael Burke, and Michelle Hromin, the band's sound has expanded to incorporate a wide range of textures and moods.

Champion Trees' music is characterized by its poetic lyrics and expansive sound, which blends elements of indie rock and chamber folk. The band's live shows are stripped back, with vocals, guitar, bass, and synths taking center stage, as drummer Langa Dubazana is still based in Cape Town. Despite this, the band has built a loyal following, with fans drawn to their unique sound and captivating live performances.

On Sunday, 8 November 2026, Champion Trees will be performing at The Hope & Ruin in Brighton, with support. The event will run until Monday, 8 February 2027 at 23:00. Tickets are with the button beside the article. As the band continues to evolve and grow, it will be exciting to see how their music develops and what new sounds they will explore in the future. With their critically acclaimed second album and captivating live shows, Champion Trees are a band to watch, and their upcoming performance in Brighton is not to be missed.