Divine Solace

Divine Solace are a 4-piece symphonic metal band from around Northamptonshire, UK, featuring Ben Hughes (Guitars/Vocals/Songwriting), Joel Anderson (Guitars), Dan Merrey (Bass), and Jake Patrick (Drums).

Divine Solace was originally founded by Ben Hughes in late 2008, after the demise of his previous band. Originally intended as a solo project, Ben soon began to miss playing live, so in early 2009 he began to look for fulltime members.

Joel Anderson was first to join, offering to fill the bass player position. However, as a classically trained pianist, he soon expressed interest in becoming the band’s keyboard player, a role in which he showcased immeasurable talent.

The next member to arrive was Luke Whitehead, after answering an ad that Ben had placed online. Luke was asked to learn a song to audition, and flew through it with ease just 2 days later.

A few months into their existence, Divine Solace still needed a bass player. Luke introduced Ben to long-time friend Dan Merrey. Due to Dan’s musical taste, he intended only to fill in until a permanent bassist could be found. However, he soon took to Ben’s songwriting, and proved to be a competent and inventive bass player.

The hunt for a drummer was without doubt the most difficult. After many months of relentless searching and a few apathetic drummers, someone pointed Ben towards Jake Patrick, a drummer with whom Ben had been in a band with many years prior.

Initially declining, Jake soon contacted Ben to say that he would be interested in the position. His immense skill and precision cemented his position in Divine Solace.

Now, in early-mid 2010, the band was finally solid, and they started rehearsing their material heavily. The band played their first show at the end of 2010, released their debut EP in 2011 (now sold out), and are currently working on their debut full-length album.

In 2013, Divine Solace parted ways with guitarist Luke Whitehead, with ex-keyboardist Joel Anderson filling that role.

Yes, anywhere that will have us!

Anything musical.

Ibanez, Fender and Schecter guitars, Fractal Audio Axe FX, Line 6 Relay wireless system.