Biffy Clyro biography
Biffy Clyro are a Scottish rock band from Ayrshire, composed of Simon Neil (vocals, guitar), James Johnston (bass, vocals) and Ben Johnston (drums, vocals). Since 2002, Biffy Clyro have released four studio albums and have expanded their following significantly with the release of their fourth album, Puzzle in 2007, which was released to widespread critical acclaim. The album went gold in the UK selling over 100,000 units, marking the bands entry into the mainstream music market. This was further built up on with the release of non-album single "Mountains", which reached the top five.
The band's sound is characterised by a heavy, yet melodic, mixture of guitar, bass and drums, with all three band members contributing to vocals. They are known for complex and interwoven guitar riffs, chord sequences and melodies that often change throughout songs.
"'Mon the Biffy!" is a well known chant among Biffy fans; usually shouted in between songs at gigs, or before the band comes on stage. The band have never actually disclosed exactly where the name 'Biffy Clyro' originated. They have a series of stories as to how the name came about, whilst being interviewed on Soccer AM the band stated that they named themselves after a footballer called Biffy Clyro who played for Scottish side Ayr United also admitting that they make up stories about how they are named because they are bored of being asked the same question. Another story is that one of the members owned a Cliff Richard pen, i.e Cliffy Biro', which was accidentally spoonerised on a drunken night out. The name Biffy Clyro has also been claimed in another interview to come from an acronym for "Big Imagination For Feeling Young 'Cos Life Yearns Real Optimism".
The first incarnation of what would eventually become Biffy Clyro was formed in 1995 by fifteen-year-old Ayr-based guitarist Simon Neil, who recruited Kilmarnock-born Ben Johnston and someone known only as Tatts on drums and bass respectively, calling themselves Screwfish. Tatts was soon replaced by James Johnston, Ben's twin brother, and the three spent the next two years rehearsing, writing and covering songs. Simon Neil has commented on this period of time, saying:
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