The Lottery Winners, an indie pop band from Leigh in Greater Manchester, are doing something extraordinary. Taking root 16 years ago in the informal charm of the Collier’s Rest Pub, after inking a deal with Sire Records by 2016, they released Girl Talk. Seymour Stein, the label’s boss, anointed them “the best band since The Smiths.” Their third album, “Anxiety Replacement Therapy,” recently topped the Billboard charts in 2023. It beat out full-lengths by The National and Jessie Ware to win the prize, overcoming a delayed debut album release, personal loss, and fraud against its crowdfunding backers.
Of which, frontman Thom Rylance has been an ironclad catalyst for the trio’s momentum, overcoming struggles with depression and anxiety to deliver a powerful performance. He struggled with panic attacks since he was a child. Two years ago, he received the diagnosis of ADHD, and with that diagnosis came tremendous relief.
"The sense of relief from Thom Rylance's ADHD diagnosis was like a tidal wave."
All in all, The Lottery Winners’ journey has been one of sticking to their guns. After their signing with Sire Records, their self-titled debut album was delayed multiple times after their departure from the label. It took until 2020 for them to record their full length debut released on British indie label Morning Sky. In the years since, they've racked up singles under their belt alongside stars including Shaun Ryder, Nickelback and Boy George.
This past year, Thom Rylance has developed a friendship with Noel Gallagher after sharing the stage! Gallagher amusingly reflected on his presence in Rylance’s life.
"Just tell them to speak to your new PR officer: Me" – Noel Gallagher
Even though the band has been tremendously successful, they are always operating with a tight budget. They need your support to make their European tour possible. To make that happen, they were awarded a grant from the UK’s Music Export Growth Fund to pay for their visas and transportation.
"I wouldn't be in Paris right now without that" – Rylance
Mythical indie-pop underdogs The Lottery Winners have been promoting and gigging their asses off since forming in 2008. Their tireless commitment sings through in Rylance’s pledge.
"I can promise you this, there isn't a single band who'll work harder than us" – Rylance
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