Leeds indie band Apollo Junction sign record deal

The five piece, who released their debut album Mystery last year, said it was an "incredibly exciting time" after striking a deal with Shed Load Records.

The man behind the label is Mick Carter, who has branched out after starting Shed Load Vinyl, a pop-up record store based at his Guiseley home.

Apollo Junction have been together for several years and recently turned down an offer from a record label which has since had two top ten hits.

But they felt Mick and his label were the right fit for them.

Guitarist Matt Wilson said: "He sat us down and said 'this is my vision' and it just seemed right.

"We are all about people. The band works well because it's our mates - we only work with people we like."

Joining Shed Load means the band has to worry less about the business side, leaving them more time to do what they love - writing songs and connecting with their fans.

"We have a brilliant fan base which is growing all the time," said Matt. "We've got great support from the record shops - Crash, Jumbo, The Vinyl Whistle - which is amazing, and with the football and rugby clubs.

With the buzz growing around the band and a growing sense of optimism around Leeds United's promotion bid, Matt hopes this could be a 'moment' for the city, akin to the Manchester scene of the nineties.

"There are some great bands coming up in Leeds," he added. "We just need everyone to get behind us and the city.

"When people are able to, we need people coming out to the small venues and supporting unsigned bands and smaller signed bands like us."

The pandemic has put a hold on Apollo Junctions plans, but 2021 is looking rosy - with a support slot with the Kaiser Chiefs at Halifax's Piece Hall and an appearance at the Isle of Wight Festival on the books.

Posting a statement on social media after signing the deal, the band said: "For years we have worked tirelessly because all we've ever wanted is to get our music out to the world and thanks to you, the fans, this is now a reality.

"It's an incredibly exciting time for the band and we are looking forward to releasing our debut album on vinyl and then looking forward to our next chapter, which you as always, will be part of."