Formed in Somerset, UK by twin brothers Ivan (lead vocals / guitar) and Frazer (lead guitar), the line up was completed after meeting James (bass) and Dean (drums) at university in Guildford. Whether it’s ripping apart the stage with their misery-anthemic indie or encapturing the room to pin drop silence singing their songs shoulder to shoulder amongst the crowd, China Bears have gained recognition for their emotive high energy and intimate performances.
After self-releasing three singles and touring extensively around the UK, China Bears teamed up with Fierce Panda Records and have since released three EPs. These have been championed by legendary radio broadcasters such as Steve Lamacq and John Kennedy, earning them plays from the likes of BBC Radio 1, BBC 6 Music, BBC Introducing, Radio X and multiple live sessions for BBC 6 and BBC Introducing.
The band sold out a number shows around the UK in 2022 and 2023 as well as making appearances at festivals such as SXSW, The Great Escape, Focus Wales, Liverpool Sound City and played the main stage at Truck Festival.
In October 2023 the band set up in camp in Edinburgh to record their debut album with Rod Jones (Idlewild, Hamish Hawk).