Anton Smith – Vocals
Elefem – Vocals
She evokes The Soul/RnB flavour delivered from the UK to the world.
A singer, songwriter and poet with knowledge of Music Production all equates to Elefem’s unique outlook on musicality and brings a welcome flair to Elevation Avenue’s repertoire.
Elefem was born and raised in one of the most vibrant cities in the UK, Manchester 🐝
Now based in Leeds City, Elefem represents The North with authenticity and love.
Elefem (pronounced LFM)
Tom Lapworth – Guitar
Tom Lapworth studied music at Newcastle College 2009 – 2011, then at The University Of Hull 2011 – 2014, graduating with a 2:1 as a Bachelor of Music. He has also studied guitar separately, receiving a Distinction at Grade 8 level from the London College of music in 2012. Tom has played in various bands over the years, including Alt Rock outfit Karlee, soul/pop band The Sky On Her Shoulders, fusion quintet Salmon Groove, The University Of Hull Big Band and The Jazz Aesthetic. His guitar influences include John Frusciante, Adam Rogers and Kurt Vile.
Tom joined Elevation Avenue in the summer of 2019. He loves the interplay between the band members and using effects pedals to create intriguing soundscapes. When the need arises for a solo, Tom won’t shy away from cranking up the gain taking the limelight, but he’s just as happy sitting back on a groove and letting the rhythm of the song speak for itself.
Gergely Kendik – Keyboard
Ever wondered why music has that mysterious power to make you want to dance, cry, or belt out that high note in the shower? Trust me, I have too! But after years of tinkling the ivories and noodling with all things music, I’ve discovered that the secret sauce is good old music theory. I know, I know—it sounds geeky, but it’s the reason your favorite tunes hit just right.
Hey there! I’m Gergo Kendik, the keyboard player of Elevation Avenue, here to spread some joy (and maybe a little keyboard magic). Whether you’re ready to dance to your favourite pop bangers, get lost in the smooth vibes of funk, rock out with some power chords, or channel your inner jazz cat — we’ve got you covered!
With over two decades of teaching and performing, I’ve had the chance to jam with jazz quartets, rock out in pop bands, and groove to all kinds of soulful beats. Whether it’s playing funky rhythms, belting out rock anthems, or getting lost in smooth jazz, I’m always ready to let the music take me on a new adventure.
For me, music is all about connection, creating moments, and feeling that electric energy in every note. From the high-energy stage performances to the laid-back jam sessions, I’m here to bring passion and excitement to every show. So, let’s dive into this journey together—let’s make some magic and see where the music takes us. Ready to jam? Let’s go!
Josh Douglas – Trumpet
James Hopkins – Saxophone
James Bebbington – Trombone
Mitch Hudson – Drums
Owen Scott – Bass Guitar
Owen Scott is an experienced bass player, sound engineer, and producer, having started playing the pub and club circuit around Yorkshire 20 years ago. His first regular work was sound engineering in Trippets Wine Bar in Sheffield, before going on to play hundred of rock and metal gigs in the North!
“I’m really pleased with the way this project has worked out! Everyone in this band is a great player and I love the feeling and energy everyone puts into each songs!”
“For this band my approach is to work with Mitch (on drums) to provide “the engine” behind each of the songs, giving the space for the others to do their thing. Mitch puts great feel into the songs, and locking in the bass riff against him is dead easy!”
“Neither of us play a song the same way twice, and there’s a certain element of improvisation within the framework of each song. I’m always trying to “thread” each run of notes into the drum line.”
“On some of the songs with the longer instrumentals, I keep the riff running and tie in my bass runs with the feel and fills that Mitch (Drums) play. This then allows the other instrumentalists to do some pretty amazing stuff!”
“And then of course, there are songs like RHCP By The Way, which was included in the set simply to allow me to show off!”
“We play some of the all time greats from Stevie Wonder and James Brown funk, Bob Marley reggae, through to the more classic rock such as Jimi Hendrix and Santana. There’s also a lot more modern stuff like Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Bruno Mars to bring the set right up to date. The material we are playing is great fun to play and gives me some great bass parts to play around with.”
Owen has produced and engineered several albums for Sheffield bands Jonny Seven, and Keep On Runnin, and Leeds band The InBetween.
“When I am setting up a recording session, I like to get everyone in the room and play off each other. We have tried building up individual instruments before, and that’s a great way of getting something that’s highly polished. But there is something more organic if you are able to capture a tight band in full flow. There is both that natural tension, and that loose feel. We have had a few really successful recording sessions working this way; for example, the last session with Keep On Runnin; the band set up, warmed up, and then just laid down 16 songs back to back in one afternoon!”
Owen’s cites his influences include John Entwise (The Who), Flea (Red Hot Chilli Peppers), Steve Harris (Iron Maiden), John Paul Jones (Led Zep) Stuart Zender (Jamiroquai), Tim Commerford (RATM). “When I first set out playing the bass, I was into classic rock and metal. A lot of my technique involved building up the speed and punch that those styles demand. After a few years my interests changed to a lot more funk and reggae styles. For songs with more feel and groove, the gaps are often just as important as the actual notes you play! I still end up putting some rock style fills in the middle of a funk number, but I am always trying to find new ways around the instrument!”
