Band Name: Healthy Junkies
Formation Year: 2009
Hometown: Nina – Paris, France; Phil – Tring, Hertfordshire; Dave W. and David G. – Maidenhead, Berkshire
Band Members:
- Nina Courson – Vocals
- Phil Honey-Jones – Guitar, Vocals
- Dave Whitmore – Bass
- David Gardner – Drums
Origin Story
Healthy Junkies was born in 2009, when Nina Courson coined the name in anticipation of the growing global mental health crisis. The band’s unique lifestyle—late-night partying balanced by daily health routines like Phil's dedication to brewing Kombucha—fueled the name’s personal and universal meaning. The story began when Nina and Phil met online, followed by a personal meeting at the iconic Punk venue in Soho, London. Phil, then on tour with The Duel, had set up a gig for Nina’s band at Camden. The spark was immediate, and soon after, Healthy Junkies was formed.
Dave W. was discovered through the site Find My Band, and Nina knew he was the perfect fit even before meeting him. Dave W. introduced David G., a longtime friend and fellow bandmate from their days in a Nirvana tribute band, to join Healthy Junkies as the drummer. Without playing a single note together, they became the new rhythm section in January 2020, solidifying the band’s current lineup.
Musical Influences
The band’s influences range from the grunge and punk movements to psychedelic rock and post-punk. Nirvana is a shared inspiration for all members. Individually, the members cite influences like:
- Nina: The Doors, The Sex Pistols
- Phil: Bauhaus, David Bowie, UK Punk, Hawkwind
- Dave W.: Rage Against the Machine, Metallica
- David G.: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hendrix, Green Day
Genre and Style
Healthy Junkies is a fusion of grunge, punk, psychedelic rock, garage, and gothic rock. Their style is raw, theatrical, and dynamic, blending a mix of post-punk and indie influences. Their live performances feature a strong element of theatre, making their shows both visually and musically engaging.
Milestones and Achievements
The band has hit several major milestones throughout their career:
- Playing on the 'Casbah Stage' at Rebellion Festival 2023
- Touring the USA in 2018
- Featuring in the documentary series 'The United Kingdom of Pop', aired on Arte TV in France, Germany, and Sky Arts in the UK
- Performing at an outdoor stage in a castle in 'Concarneau, Brittany', to an audience of thousands
- Completing 100 live shows in 2023
Future Plans
Healthy Junkies is set to release their sixth studio album on November 22, 2024, with a launch party on November 20th at 'The Dublin Castle', Camden. The band plans to tour the UK, Europe, and return to the USA in autumn 2025. Fans can also expect new music videos in the coming months, as they continue writing for their next album.
Stories and Anecdotes
The band has no shortage of wild stories. From flipping tables during shows to being locked inside venues until they cleaned up, Healthy Junkies' road to success has been eventful. One memorable gig involved playing for the Hell’s Angels Kent Chapter. After two intense sets, their roadie was caught with a smuggled beer, and the band faced a terrifying confrontation, barely escaping the compound after being threatened with a metal ball and chain.
Nina once vomited on stage behind an amp but accidentally amplified the sound through her microphone, creating a moment no one in the audience will forget.
Booking Information
Contact: Phil Honey-Jones
Email: bananacastleltd@yahoo.co.uk
Social Media and Music Links
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