Winnebago Deal

The early 21st century may be remembered as the rock era when bands began 'downsizing' the amount of bandmembers, A plethora of duos appeared during this time (who handled all the chores themselves), including British heavies, Winnebago Deal. Hailing from Oxford, the group began as a quartet however, during 1999. With a sound comparable to classic Sub Pop bands and <a href="spotify:artist:4pejUc4iciQfgdX6OKulQn">Queens of the Stone Age</a> (when <a href="spotify:artist:5WCFj64gXT7nJwOEEzc0Wf">Nick Oliveri</a> mans the mic), two of the original members exited shortly thereafter, leaving Ben Perrier (vocals, guitar) and Ben Thomas (drums) to fend for themselves. Making a name for themselves the old-fashioned way (touring incessantly via van -- for very little pay -- and handing out demos), the duo eventually began building a loyal following, which led to a gig supporting <a href="spotify:artist:62sC6lUEWRjbFqXpMmOk4G">Fugazi</a> at London's Forum, which in turn got the attention of the head of indie label Fierce Panda Records. This led to the release of the duo's debut EP, Plata O Plomo, in March of 2003, and as a result, racked up accolades (including being nominated 'Best British Newcomer' at that years' Kerrang Awards). 2003 was a busy one for the Ben's, as they played well over a hundred gigs (including a spot at the Reading/Leeds festivals, and playing alongside the likes of <a href="spotify:artist:6093L65mwrPFONEN7Qbeeg">Burning Brides</a> and <a href="spotify:artist:3fe36ZJP5Og68Ji1VUMLgE">Nebula</a>). Several singles and EP's found their way into the shops during late 2003 and early 2004 -- Manhunt, a split 7" with tour mates <a href="spotify:artist:3fe36ZJP5Og68Ji1VUMLgE">Nebula</a>, and the George Dickel EP, while Winnebago Deal was invited to take part in one XFM and two Radio One sessions. A new recording contract with Double Dragon Music soon followed, as the duo hooked up with renowned Sub Pop producer <a href="spotify:artist:5WPz1DmtxRJBajeTYGiftU">Jack Endino</a> (best known for working with both <a href="spotify:artist:6olE6TJLqED3rqDCT0FyPh">Nirvana</a> and <a href="spotify:artist:5xUf6j4upBrXZPg6AI4MRK">Soundgarden</a> early on). The resulting debut full-length, Dead Gone, appeared in September 2004, which was prefaced by a few gigs supporting <a href="spotify:artist:5Ug0EkTXplXiip0C2OzVi7">Mondo Generator</a>. A month after their debut's release, Plata O Plomo was reissued in Australia, with an expanded track listing. ~ Greg Prato, Rovi