In Conversation with Adult DVD

By Ben Bagley

“Greg drew an old sex shop – DVDs and neon lights kind of job,” Harry Hanson, frontman of Leeds dance-rock outfit Adult DVD recounts how the band got their name. “It was hung up on our old studio and we kept coming back to it. Surprisingly, no one’s called Adult DVD.”

Don’t let the name fool you, however, the band are a serious proposition. They spent the summer on the UK’s festival circuit making appearances at tastemaker staples Green Man and End of the Road, not to mention Glasto. 

Today they’re playing an early slot at Glasgow’s church-turned-venue St Luke’s. “It’s wild in there. There’s an altar, a massive organ and then just a massive illuminated Tennent’s logo.” 

It’s not their first time in the city. “On our first ever headline tour we played at Stereo to about eight people,” he says. “We were kicked out after the show for a drum and bass night but they let us in for free. Had a great night in the end.”

The band’s influences are more eclectic than many an indie band. “The Chemical Brothers and Soulwax have been big influences, but I’m also really into some of the newer guitar music,” Hanson says. “But I’m also really into some of the newer guitar bands –  I’ve been listening to a lot of Sorry recently, their stuff’s great.”

Catchy choruses are key to Adult DVD’s sound. “Dance music can get a bit repetitive, so having a big chorus that people can latch onto is important.” Their 2022 single ‘Bill Murray’ – a nod to the Hollywood icon – is perhaps the best example of what their witty dance-infused guitar pop is all about.

Adult DVD are the latest in a line of bands to emerge from the Leeds scene. English Teacher took home last year’s Mercury Prize and Yard Act have won hearts and minds from Leeds to Japan. “Because Leeds is so small, people are so supportive of each other which gives everyone the drive to do it,” Hanson emphasises. “In Leeds, there’s a little pocket for everyone. 

That drive fuels their relentless work ethic. After their Glasgow show, they’re heading straight to Middlesbrough for another festival slot. “It’s tough balancing everything. We all still work normal jobs as well,” Hanson says. “But we find a way”

That ambition’s clear, too. “I walked past the Barrowland’s earlier,” he adds. “I’d love to play there one day.”

Adult DVD have just announced a headline tour in February, including two sold-out dates at London’s Shacklewell Arms. They return to Glasgow on 19th February at McChuills.

Their debut album is set for release next year. Hanson puts it simply: “Expect more of the same, but better. We’re going into the new year strong.”