More often than not, personal struggles can lead to art being created, which can then connect with people. Bristol quartet Mallavora, has used their music to pour out their frustrations living with chronic illness and disabilities, as well as against the lack of accessible support in the live music sector. It’s a topic close to the band with vocalist Jessica Douek being diagnosed with fibromyalgia and guitarist Larry Sobieraj having a chronic illness (chronic fatigue and brain fog from long COVID). Along with bassist Ellis James and drummer Jack Pedersen, they’ve become advocates for improved accessibility.
Having released a smattering of EPs and singles independently, Mallavora‘s status has risen over the past 18 months. From a brief impressionable outing at 2023’s 2000Trees Festival to joining Marshall Records after winning Kerrang! Radio’s ‘The Deal’ competition earlier this year, to releasing their new EP – ‘Echoes’. Produced by Skindred guitarist Mikey Demus and mixed by Lewis Johns (Rolo Tomassi, Pupil Slicer, Palm Reader), Mallavora‘s label debut is a sharp 15-minute blast of alt-metal riddled with therapeutic lyricism.
Douek’s soulful melodies wrap themselves around visceral and thunderous blasts on ‘It’s Not Enough’. Jessica’s Jewish Middle Eastern background hypnotically works its way in during ‘Skin’s verses, as her bandmates deliver a stomping metalcore groove, building to a compelling wall of noise. Likewise ‘Vultures’ arrives with menacing intentions, proving to be a buzzsaw of pure societal angst against being labelled as “different”. The title track gracefully highlights Mallavora‘s melodic side, allowing Douek’s emotional outpouring to take centre stage. As a snapshot of what Mallavora are capable of, ‘Echoes’ is the sound of a band to get excited about. More importantly, is the message that Mallavora deliver. ‘Echoes” four songs cover personal topics of alienation, struggle, identity, purpose, and neurodiversity. However as ‘Skin’s lyrics suggest (“I am not Broken”), this Bristolian four-piece thrives on perseverance.
In this edition of “Fives”, Mallavora discuss the importance of access for disabled people within the UK’s live music scene. When you strip it all back, Mallavora‘s mission is to make music accessible for all, just as it should be.
1 in 5 people in the UK have a disability.
That’s a huge part of the crowd who could be coming to shows but aren’t—just because their needs aren’t met. Imagine how much bigger and more diverse your audience could be if you actually made them feel welcome.
Whether it’s venues without step-free access, inaccessible ticketing systems, or a lack of clear information about accommodations, the barriers are everywhere. And those barriers don’t just hurt fans—they’re holding back artists, too.
As a band with personal experience of disability and chronic illness, we’ve seen firsthand how the world of live music isn’t built for people like us. And that needs to change.
Find out more here.
Disabled people bring serious value to the scene.
From their spending power—£2bn a month lost by UK businesses ignoring accessibility—to the depth of talent and unique perspectives they offer, why would anyone choose to exclude them?
Disabled people contribute billions to the UK economy annually and are some of the most loyal fans when treated with respect. Ignoring accessibility means leaving money, and potential connections, on the table. Imagine turning away a huge chunk of potential ticket sales because you didn’t think to put some seats out or offer a quiet space for your show. It doesn’t make sense, does it?
Learn more about Disabled people’s spending power here.
Accessibility Unlocks Talent
Disabled artists bring a richness to music that needs to be heard. If you’re not caring about accessibility, you’re shutting out voices and stories that could make the scene better for everyone.
Take a second and think about it: how many incredible disabled artists might never get the chance to perform because stages aren’t accessible? Or because touring in venues that don’t prioritise their needs feels impossible? That’s not just a loss for them—it’s a loss for all of us. Music thrives on diversity. The more voices, stories, and perspectives we include, the richer the art becomes.
Discover Disabled talent here
An opportunity to reimagine our world.
When you make venues, stages, and spaces accessible, you create a better experience for everyone, including non-disabled people. No one wants to feel like they’re navigating an obstacle course just to enjoy live music.
Some of our fans tell us that they haven’t been to a gig before because of inaccessibility—but they come to our shows. We’re not doing anything expensive or particularly difficult: we headline wheelchair-accessible venues, make DIY lyrics sheets, don’t use strobe, take a break in our set, have small seated areas etc.
It’s not optional—it’s the law
You can’t just “wing it” when it comes to accessibility. You’ve got to anticipate that Disabled people will show up and be ready for them. Otherwise, you’re risking legal trouble, not to mention your reputation.
Care about accessibility because it’s the right thing to do. But also, because it’ll make your music and your shows something people will never forget—for all the right reasons.
‘Echoes’ by Mallavora is out now on Marshall Records.
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