Ben Lloyd

Ben Lloyd became a member of the New Zealand band The Hyde in 1999. With his guitar skills, he significantly influenced the band's sound and contributed to their growing popularity in the New Zealand music scene. Ben Lloyd's involvement with The Hyde marked an important phase in his musical career as he explored different styles and genres, helping the band release multiple albums that were well-received by audiences and critics alike.

In July 2007, Ben Lloyd became the guitarist for Fat Freddy's Drop, one of New Zealand's leading live and recording bands known for their unique blend of dub, reggae, soul, and jazz. His contribution to the band's dynamic performances and recordings helped maintain their reputation for delivering memorable live experiences. With Ben's addition, Fat Freddy's Drop continued to expand their international presence.

Fat Freddy's Drop released 'Live at Roundhouse' on May 5, 2010, featuring performances with Ben Lloyd on guitar. This live album showcased the band's captivating stage presence and Ben's exceptional guitar contributions. It was recorded during their performance at the Roundhouse venue in London, capturing the energy and spirit of their live shows that attract a global fan base.

On June 1, 2013, Fat Freddy's Drop released the album 'Blackbird', with Ben Lloyd on guitar. The album demonstrated the band's evolution, blending electronic music with their signature roots sound. Ben's guitar work was pivotal in shaping the album's style and was noted for adding depth and texture to the tracks. 'Blackbird' was critically acclaimed and supported by a successful world tour.

On November 20, 2015, Ben Lloyd and Fat Freddy's Drop released 'Bays'. This album was recorded at the band's Bays studio in Wellington and further explored their eclectic musical styles. Ben Lloyd's guitar playing was a standout feature, bringing a raw and edgy quality to the tracks. 'Bays' was well received by fans and showcased the band's continual innovation over the years.

Released on March 22, 2019, 'Special Edition Part 1' by Fat Freddy's Drop featured Ben Lloyd's guitar work prominently. The album was part of a project aimed at experimenting with new musical expressions while staying true to their essence. It reflected the band's diverse influences, with Ben's contributions helping to create a fresh and dynamic sound that was celebrated by music enthusiasts worldwide.

On January 15, 2021, Ben Lloyd received an award for his outstanding contribution to New Zealand music as part of Fat Freddy's Drop. The award recognized his exceptional guitar work and dedication to the band and the music industry. Ben's work has greatly influenced the New Zealand music scene and has been an inspiration to many upcoming musicians.

Fat Freddy's Drop released 'Wairunga' on November 12, 2021, featuring Ben Lloyd on guitar. This album was recorded live and captured the essence of their outdoor recording sessions. Ben's guitar playing added a rich layer to the soundscapes, and the album was praised for its authentic capture of the band's live energy and innovative approach to music production.

On June 1, 2022, Ben Lloyd released a solo project titled 'Anatomy of a Noodie'. This project marked his exploration into new creative territories and highlighted his versatility as a musician. 'Anatomy of a Noodie' was a departure from his work with Fat Freddy's Drop, showcasing his personal artistic expression. The album received praise for its originality and Ben's craftsmanship as a guitarist.

In 2023, Ben Lloyd embarked on an ambitious world tour with Fat Freddy's Drop, beginning on May 10. This tour was a celebration of the band's long-standing career and their commitment to delivering live performances filled with energy and innovation. Ben's guitar performances were lauded for their creativity and skill, and the tour helped bring their unique sound to diverse audiences worldwide.