Machines in motion

By Kev Hutchings BBC Radio Devon Introducing

Ash and Dan from Exeter based band We The Machines performing Hold On To Me in the BBC Radio Devon Introducing studio

Exeter band We The Machines may be more used to rocking packed-out local venues to the rafters, but on BBC Radio Devon Introducing they stripped their sound right back to record a special acoustic set for the show.

Front man Ash Taylor and lead guitarist Dan Guest left bass player Sam Hollis and drummer Karl Griffin behind when they stopped by to perform a live acoustic set and talk to me about life in the studio and on the road.

"A lot of things have happened in a short space time," explained Ash.

"The reaction from the fans has been sweet and it's great to have our songs played on your show."

'Pretty cool'

The band have recently spent some time locked away inside a recording studio working on a batch of new tracks, an experience that Dan says they really enjoyed.

Ash and Dan about to perform their acoustic set

"It was pretty cool, our producer was telling us what he thought was working and what wasn't too."

Anyone who, like me, is eagerly anticipating hearing these tracks on a finished EP or album can forget about a traditional release; Ash says the band plan on embracing cheaper, more instant methods.

"We might have an EP ready by March 2010. CDs aren't selling as well and it's better for us to make it available to download."

But it's not just a cost-cutting exercise.

The band is all about keeping the relationship with their fans tight and giving them instant access to their work.

"The first song we recorded - Jump The Trenches - we gave out for free to create some hype.

"It got as far as Plymouth and it's great that people are digging it and sending it to their friends."

The band know exactly where We The Machines are heading.

"We want the band to be able to sustain itself, from van insurance to CD sales," said Dan.

"We want to be on the road whenever we want and have the time to write and record.

"It's definitely possible for us to get there."