Last weekend, a Harry Styles lookalike competition took place in Soho Square, drawing a crowd of about 500 people. Among the 13 contestants vying for the top spot, the winner of the £50 prize was Oscar Journeaux, a 22-year-old singer and guitar player from South-west London indie-rock band Parlay.
In an interview with the South London Press, Mr. Journeaux admitted that he entered the competition with the intention of gaining some exposure for his band. Describing the experience as both great and intense, he mentioned the chaos of the event with a lot of shouting and directions to follow.
Following his win, Mr. Journeaux cleverly shared short clips of the competition on Parlay’s Instagram page to attract fans who appreciate his resemblance to Harry Styles. The singer-songwriter formed Parlay last year while working at the Troubadour in Brompton Road, Earls Court, alongside three other staff members.
The band consists of Stan Doyle on guitar, vocals, and piano, Webb McNamee Jr on bass, Oscar Yorkie on drums, and Mr. Journeaux on guitar and vocals. Initially serving as a house band for the venue, the group eventually decided to pursue a more ambitious musical career.
With around 30 gigs under their belt, Parlay has been performing at various small music venues across London in hopes of gaining recognition. Their music is a blend of alternative and indie rock, infused with elements of indie funk, drawing inspiration from bands like Fontaines DC, Radiohead, and The Beatles.
Mr. Journeaux emphasized the band’s authenticity, energy, and strong work ethic as their defining characteristics. Dedicated to their music full-time, Parlay is gearing up for their upcoming performances at Next Door Records in Stoke Newington Road on November 27 and The Old Dispensary in Camberwell New Road on December 4.
The band’s next shows promise an electrifying experience for fans, showcasing their unique sound and stage presence. As they continue to make their mark on London’s music scene, Parlay is undoubtedly a group to watch for music enthusiasts seeking fresh and innovative sounds. So mark your calendars and don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness the magic of Parlay live in action!
