Colin Kempster

Born in Harlesden, North West London, Colin grew up surrounded by contrasting sounds. His Dad’s love of classical and choral music never quite struck a chord, but his cousins, with their mix of English and Jamaican heritage, introduced him to bass-heavy Reggae, Motown, and Soul. That deep groove stayed with him for life.

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Leaving school in East Acton (ironically, the same stomping ground as Del Bromham), Colin dived headfirst into music. His first record swap scored him Queen’s first four albums, and his first pay packet bought T. Rex’s Dandy in the Underworld and AC/DC’s Let There Be Rock. Growing up in the golden age of glam, punk, and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, Colin soaked up everything from Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Deep Purple to the space-rock of Hawkwind, a lifelong favourite.

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After dabbling with keys and guitar, he found his true home on the bass, and never looked back. Early originals and covers bands included Out of the Wood, Bass Elegance, and Northampton ska outfit The Bighead, along with local favourites Insurrection,  The Curvy Love Dogz and Isabelle.

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When the opportunity came to join Stray, Colin jumped at the chance. “I’d seen them live and loved their raw energy,” he says. “When Del asked me to join, I bit his hand off.” Now a solid part of the lineup, Colin brings a punchy groove and rock-steady presence to every show.  “I’m not a massively technical player,” he admits, “but for me it’s all about feel, space, and taste, knowing when not to play is just as important.”

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