Split Sofa is a unique musical project that was founded by the talented singer and songwriter, Lewie Docksey, in 1999.
This project was established with the intention of releasing a distinctive style of music that Lewie himself refers to as “Sofa Rock.” This genre draws inspiration from the late sixties and early seventies, incorporating elements of the era’s influential music into its sound.
Lewie’s aim with Split Sofa is to create a fusion of classic rock and contemporary elements, resulting in a fresh and captivating musical experience. The genre of Sofa Rock is a testament to Lewie’s passion for music and his desire to explore new territories within the rock genre. By infusing his own unique style with the influences of the late sixties and early seventies, he has managed to create a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative.
Lewie’s songwriting skills shine through in every track he releases under
the Split Sofa name, as he effortlessly combines catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. Since its inception, Split Sofa has gained a dedicated following of music lovers who appreciate the distinctive sound that Lewie brings to the table.
His ability to seamlessly blend different musical elements creates an immersive listening experience that captivates audiences. Whether it’s the infectious guitar riffs, soulful vocals, or the overall energy of the music, Split Sofa has managed to carve out a niche for itself in the music industry.
From 2002 to 2023, The Sofa recordings embarked on a journey of creativity and musical collaboration, resulting in the birth of nine albums. These albums were brought to life with the invaluable contributions of talented local musicians. Joe Nicklin, Martin Gilman, Dave Shipley, Gareth Williams, Roger Moggs, Alex Gandley, Pete Garyga, Matt Bishop, Tom Bishop & Chris Ciff all played their part in shaping the unique sound and vision of these albums.
The Sofa recordings, initially a humble project, gradually evolved into fully-fledged albums that showcased a diverse range of musical styles and influences. Each album represented a chapter in the creative journey.
Together, these musicians formed a cohesive unit that breathed life into The Sofa’s albums. Their collective efforts resulted in a body of work that showcased their individual talents while also highlighting their ability to collaborate seamlessly. The albums that were born from this collaboration stand as a testament to the power of artistic synergy and the magic that can be created when talented musicians come together.
Sofa became a live band which played from 2007 – 2018. They played local venues and Music festivals and played the world famous ‘Cavern’ in Liverpool 5 times appearing at ‘The International Pop Overthrow Festival run by David Bash who described the band in 2014;
Historically a recording project (they’ve got three EPs and six full length albums already to their credit!), but more recently converted to a live band, these gents from Derbyshire have developed their own fresh new sub-genre of pop and prog that they like to call “Sofa Rock.” Influences include: Pink Floyd, Love, The Doors, Caravan, Gong, Kula Shaker, The Beatles, & music from the late ‘60s early ‘70s prog/rock/pysch. Their latest, Coloured Dream, “… is full of deceptively lightweight songs that impinge on your consciousness like hazy whispers.” (Geoff Barton, Classic Rock Magazine) A seventh full length album, Thornby Park, is in the works, and you can stay tuned to watch it all develop by following them on Twitter! Cool!”
Sofa Rock’s been played across the internet radio stations now for over 15 years being played on BBC Radio, Lonely Oak Radio, Phoenix Radio plus many more playlist across the world internet. Sofa can can be downloaded on over 250 streaming sites including Apple Music, CD Baby, Spotify, Deezer, Yandex, Tick Tock, you tube music & tidal
Sofa’s been featured on two ‘International pop overthrow’ compilations – “International Pop Overthrow volume 17” reviewed by Ted Frank released in 2014. “It all culminates brilliantly in a reimagined Flaming Lips sound on Split Sofa’s “10,000 Light Years from the Sun.” (A tip of the hat, too, to The Rolling Stones and “2000 Light Years from Home.”)
The Gathering’ released in 2010 to much acclaim, Alan Jones reviewed the album on readytorock.com, he said:
”The Gathering is the band’s fifth album and, for someone like myself who’s never really been into psychedelia (with the valiant exception of the wonderful Ozric Tentacles), I approached this review with a certain amount of skepticism. I shouldn’t have. This is an excellent album” and he states “I would describe the entire work as a triumphant psychedelic trip without the need of the tabs”.
The Gathering was also reviewed by The Rock Society Magazine was described the album as;
‘There is a definitive feel of late sixties Move / Beatles-esque Psychedelic Pop Sensibility permeating several of the tracks here, while a languid melodic feel reminiscent of Obscured by clouds – era Pink Floyd is evident. Elsewhere, and it all adds up to a pleasant, well-executed, relaxing listen”.
Through 2011 & 2012 the band recorded ‘Coloured Dream’ which was reviewed in Classic Rock magazine by Geoff Brittian:
“With their influences rooted firmly in British 6o’s psychedelia. Midlands band Split Sofa’s sixth album is full of deceptively lightweight Songs that impinge on your consciousness like hazy whispers. Highlights are the winsome Lennon-esque Until Tomorrow and the jangly Lovely day which could be a summer hit with more lavish production”.
Powerplay magazine also saw the album as
“The music on here is kinda laid back, to the point of horizontal; It’s very summery and melodic. Split sofa are a bit of a throwback. They love the sixties and are content to stay there, playing psychedelic Rock and singing about the summer of love, but rather than being from The west coast there’ll from the East Midlands”.
