COLUMBIA MILLS was a building based on Dublin’s Quays. In the early 90s the building became a mecca for the illegal rave scene bringing people together from all walks of life and all musical tastes. It was all about inclusion, something Columbia Mills believe very strongly in.
The diversity of music and social classes is something that has left a lasting impression on the city and has not been rediscovered since the police put an end to the institution in an early morning raid in the mid 90's.
Based between Dublin and Wicklow in Ireland, the band have embraced the liberal ethos of the Columbia Mills era to both musical tastes and social equality. They have shaped their musical style with a guitar driven sounds and emphasis on electronic foundations. Having released two EPs to wide critical acclaim, their debut single ‘Never Gonna Look At You The Same’ was play listed on Today FM and TXFM in Dublin and was also picked up by Radio X in London. Their music has been described as dark, ambient, emotive but with an almost deep south sensibility. Think Joy Division playing the Grand Ole Opry.
Columbia Mills released their debut album 'A Safe Distance To Watch' on Nov 7th 2018. It was produced by Rob Kirwan (Hozier, Depeche Mode, U2, Glasvegas) .
The first single taken from the album 'Battles' was play listed on Today FM (Ireland) in January 2017, which set them up for a whirlwind year in which they stormed the festival circuit, supported RIDE and Public Service Broadcasting, whilst selling out their own headline show in The Button Factory, Dublin on the release of their debut album.
They have been an ever stay on Irish radio with all four singles from the album getting plays across the board.
Battles was also picked up by WWE to feature in their documentary about wrestling superstar Finn Balor's recovery from injury, helping the band to generate lots of support in the USA.
2018 will see the band tour the UK for the first time in April, playing in some legendary venues such as King Tuts in Glasgow.
The band are currently recording their second album with new music due for release in may.